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FRIDAY,

JUNE 08, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.23

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Miss SVG 2018 Shellisa Nanton Miss Lotto

THE INTERNATIONAL FLAIR created by the LED lighting at the Victoria Park for the staging of the 2018 Miss SVG Pageant, Saturday 2nd June, could be felt on entry to the venue.

This dovetailed with a VIP section, near the main stage, for those patrons who desired and could afford a more ‘up close’ viewing of the event.

And so it was that both VIP and not so VIP patrons waited into the early morning hours of Sunday, to witness first hand, the crowning of Miss Stellisa Nanton, Miss Lotto, as Miss SVG 2018.

She takes with her title an EC$80,000 scholarship which she indicated would be used to pursue studies in Health Sciences.

Continued on Pages 14&15.

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2. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Indian Heritage Foundation thankful for recognition

PRESIDENT OF THE ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES INDIAN HERITAGE FOUNDATION (SVGIHF) Junior Bacchus is grateful for the general acceptance of the annual commemoration of Indian Arrival Day (IAD) here.

Bacchus made this known as he addressed a ceremony last Sunday morning at Indian Bay, to mark the 157th anniversary of Indians to St Vincent and the Grenadines on 1st June, 1861.

The ceremony, in part, comprised a re-enactment of the arrival.

“We are thankful that the government has acknowledged

that on the 1st of June, Indians arrived here in St Vincent (and the Grenadines)… It is an official recognition day… It is not a , as we don’t have enough Indians to clamour for a holiday, like those in Trinidad (and Tobago),” Bacchus declared.

Bacchus also referenced this recognition in terms of the impact persons of Indian descent have had on the economic activities of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“When the first batch landed here, .. they brought that entrepreneurial spirit that is still thriving,” Bacchus

reasoned, adding, “You can go around Kingstown and you see the many Indians who have set up businesses.”

The SVGIHF President hailed such a legacy as fruitful to the local population of East Indians.

Colville Harry accepting his certificate.

Re-enacting the landing Sunday’s re-enactment involved a journey by boat from the Blue Lagoon Bay to Indian Bay, where persons of the SVGIHF were presented with registration certificates with their names, as was done in

Some persons who attended last Sunday’s IAD re-enactment ceremony at Indian Bay.

1861.

Retracing the journey, Bacchus said that the records show that 258 persons made the first journey, which left Madras in India and travelled via the Cape of Good Hope, to the Caribbean.

But he noted that, according to data, two babies were born on the journey, thus making the final count 260.

“They arrived at the Edinboro Harbour, that was the port of entry at the time... They were given their names and then they came around here to Indian Bay, where they were distributed to go to their various estates,” Bacchus continued.

The records show that there were eight such journeys made from India to St Vincent and the Grenadines, bringing a total of

2474 persons who came to these shores.

However, Bacchus said, that from that total, 1141 got the right to return to India, with the remainder settling in communities such as Richland Park, Calder, Argyle, Park Hill, Rose Bank and Layou.

In addition to those communities, there are pockets of Indians in diverse parts of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Also addressing last Sunday’s ceremony was Kandhi Kangal of Trinidad and Tobago. He encouraged the SVGIHF to continue to document its activities, which would add to the day’s growing acceptance.

Following the ceremony at Indian Bay, a Brunch, featuring Indian cuisine, was held at the Murray’s Heights Hotel, Mc Kie’s Hill.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 3.

News 3 Monty nearing a comeback

FORMER NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) Parliamentary Representative for North Windward Monty Roberts has made clear, his

intention to be a candidate in the next General Elections.

“For us in North Windward, political history is on our side. It

No need for a ‘big stink’ THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) has denied that the late removal of two portable lavatories stationed at the Greiggs Primary School and used during the party’s convention rally last Sunday, was a deliberate act.

In a press release issued June 5, the NDP apologized and stated that the members took full responsibility for the late removal of the lavatories.

It had been reported in the local media that the principal, Margaret Lewis Jackson was forced to send the students home early on Tuesday this week, saying that the stench emanating from the portable lavatories was unbearable.

But, according to the press release, the school was power washed twice prior to the event.

“Unfortunately, at the end of the convention the portable lavatories were not removed from the premises as intended,” the release stated.

“It is being suggested by some who should know better, that this lapse, to which the early closing of the school on Tuesday was attributed, was intentional. This is far from the truth,” the release continued.

It was noted that the NDP had an agreement with a contractor to have the lavatories removed, but this did not happen and as soon as the situation was brought to the attention of the leadership, the comfort stations were removed.

(DD)

The provision of portable lavatories is a requirement at all mas functions in SVG.

is a constituency that has never been in opposition, and I want to promise you here this afternoon, that when the next General Election is called, North Windward will be among the winners,” Roberts said at the NDP’s convention held at the Greigg’s Primary School last Sunday.

He went on to say that he was the present caretaker for the constituency but he was not yet confirmed to be the candidate.

“There are those who think that I should not return, but I did not return on my own. I want to make that very loud and clear. I am here because the people of North Windward ask me to return,” he said.

But, he said, he was not selfish and if there

was another individual who thought that they had the ability to bring home North Windward for the NDP, then he will give way and give them his full support, as he has done over the last four elections.

“In the meantime, as I go about quietly and cool, I’m getting my job done, eh.”

Roberts said that he had a good team working with him, and the people of North Windward were coming back to the NDP. “There are some who are still afraid to come forward, but every single day there are dozens calling me, meeting me on the streets and indicating to me that they hear that I am coming back — and if I am coming back then they are also coming back to the NDP,” the

Monty Roberts, former NDP MP for North Windward, is confident that he can bring back the constituency to the NDP in the next General Elections. former MP said.

Roberts enjoyed a 12year stint as the Parliamentary Representative for the constituency.

He was first elected into office in 1989 and retained his seat in the 1994 and 1998 General

Elections.

Roberts did not contest the elections in 2001 when Ruth Woods ran for the NDP and lost to the Unity Labour Party’s (ULP) Montgomery Daniel.

(DD)

‘No hoodwinking,’ says Bruce ATTORNEY-AT-LAW ISRAEL BRUCE, the man selected as the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate to contest the South Central Windward (SCW) seat in the next General Elections, says that his primary focus is on providing quality jobs for the people of that constituency.

And the reason why he has chosen that as top priority is because he knows that the people of that constituency are hardworking and proud, he declared at his party’s Convention Rally, held last Sunday at the Greiggs Government School, in the heart of the SCW constituency.

“The NDP has led the way in democracy and improving the economic landscape of the constituency,” Bruce said at last Sunday’s rally, dubbed Cut loose with Bruce’, He urged the residents of SCW not to be hoodwinked.

“I have a love for the people of this constituency,” he said, “and once elected, I don’t intend to be lazy…. . I am not going to play second fiddle, I mean business.”

He assured those gathered, many from his constituency, that he already has a grip on things, which is causing issues for the ruling party.

For example, he said that it was he who suggested that small quantities of marijuana be decriminalized, something which, he alluded to that the Antiguan government has since announced.

In addition, he referred to an instance where he wrote to the state-owned electricity company, asking for the placement of street lights. This went ignored until it was picked up by the media, and the situation changed.

“Electing me will bring great things to the community,” Bruce told the gathering.

“I have listened to the plight of the people,” he continued,

Israel Bruce replaces two-time loser Addison Thomas as the NDP candidate in the South Central Windward constituency. assuring that he is well aware of the farmers’ suffering due to the lack of proper roads and no markets for their products.

He promised that he had a lot more issues to touch on at the appropriate time. (DD)

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Baby’s death hits the spotlight again parents, but were discharged on all counts during the Preliminary AN INVESTIGATION has Inquiry (PI) at the been launched into the Serious Offences Court, surfacing of an affidavit April 25, 2017, after purportedly signed by Chief Magistrate Belmont resident Monty Rechanne Browne upheld Hillocks, who was listed as no case submissions from a key prosecution witness attorneys Grant Connell in the Preliminary Inquiry and Israel Bruce, (PI) into the October 7, representing James and 2016 shooting death of 9- McFee respectively. month-old Mozarie Lee, A request by Senior and the attempted murder Prosecutor Adolphus of his parents Mozart Lee Delpleche for the and Shelly Ann Durham.

Prosecution to make an THE VINCENTIAN application under the understands that the Witness Special probe is led by a Senior Measures Act to have Officer in the Royal St. Hillocks’ evidence Vincent and the provided at the P.I Grenadines Police Force. through video link, was Martin ‘Jahson’ James not granted. and Ricardo ‘Shrek’ The Office of the McFee, both of Villa, Director of Public were charged with the Prosecutions (DPP) baby’s murder and the subsequently applied for, attempted murder of his and was granted a Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Voluntary Bill of Indictment for the men to stand trial in the High Court for the baby’s murder, wounding his parents with intent, and attempting to murder Hillocks.

Hillocks was reportedly on the scene of the shooting but escaped unhurt.

The matter is in the spotlight again, with the surfacing of an affidavit purportedly signed by Hillocks, reportedly in the presence of a notary public, which stated something contrary to what Hillocks was reported to have initially told the police.

Bruce had brought the issue to the High Court’s attention earlier this year, and it was subsequently raised in that Court by Connell,

when the men Ricardo ‘Shrek’ appeared in McFee (hiding connection with the face) and Martin matter. But Acting ‘Jahson’ James DPP Sejilla (front right) were McDowall said then, discharged at the that she had not Preliminary Inquiry seen a copy of what (PI) stage, but a the lawyers were High Court Judge speaking about, and found that there is the matter was sufficient evidence adjourned after she for the men to requested time to stand trial in the have the issue High Court for the investigated. baby’s murder.

THE VINCENTIAN June 18. understands that Connell When has since filed an contacted on application for leave for Tuesday, the Court to issue a writ Connell told THE of Habeus Corpus to VINCENTIAN, “My have his client produced client maintains his to determine whether his innocence, and it is very detention is justified. unfortunate that the The application was process is being delayed.” heard last week in the He declined to comment High Court, and the further. hearing was adjourned to

Magistrate rejects gunmanÊs plea UROY LEWIS will serve a 3-year prison term for firearm and ammunition possession, despite his plea for a fine.

The 27-year-old Enhams resident was sentenced to three years for possession of a Smith and Wesson Semiautomatic firearm, and one and a half years for having 13 rounds of .9mm ammunition, after

pleading guilty to both charges at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. The sentences will run concurrently.

Before handing down the penalty, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne told the unemployed man, “These are extremely serious offences.” She pointed out that firearm or ammunition possession

carries a maximum penalty, in the Magistrate’s Court, of $20,000 forthwith or seven years in prison, or both.

“Gey me a fine please, my honour,” Lewis pleaded.

The Chief Magistrate did not believe Lewis’s explanation to the Court, that he had found the loaded gun on a beach at Brighton, an area close to Diamond, where police officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) found him in possession of the weapon, Monday, June 4.

Lewis said he found the gun on Saturday, June 2, and was on his way to hand it over to the police, when he was

intercepted on June 4.

But the Magistrate found it strange that Lewis would find a gun, hold it for two days, and as soon as he was going to hand it over to the police, he was intercepted.

Browne also wondered aloud how so many persons who come before the Court on firearm possession charges, claim they found these weapons.

“How you didn’t find money down there?”

Browne asked the accused, adding, “Suppose this gun was used in the commission of a crime?

“You walked around with it for two days without carrying it in,

Uroy Lewis tried to ‘plea’ his way out of prison but failed. and as soon as you were going to carry it in, police hold you.”

In sentencing Lewis, Browne took into account his guilty plea, and that he had no previous convictions. She noted, however, that it was a loaded firearm, and persons could have been hurt.

According to the facts presented in Court, Lewis was standing next to a house at Diamond when RRU officers, on mobile patrol, alighted their vehicle around 2:30 p.m. June 4, and requested a search, to which Lewis consented.

Nothing illegal was found on his person, but a search of a Jansport knapsack he was carrying, revealed the loaded gun.

Telephone system installed for prisoners PRISONERS here now have the opportunity to make telephone calls to persons outside the prison walls. This makes it convenient, if not easier for inmates to keep in contact with their relatives and lawyers.

Reliable sources have told THE VINCENTIAN that a telephone system has been installed at Her Majesty’s Prisons for prisoners, and though it has not been fully commissioned, its trial indicates that it is working well and is safe.

As far as how the system works, THE VINCENTIAN understands that the inmates have to give the prison authorities the name of the person with whom they want to make contact. The name is then entered into the installed system. No calls can be made to persons whose names are not entered in the system.

The inmates are allowed to have more than one person entered with whom they wish to keep in contact.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that a similar system is already in place in a number of Caribbean countries, including Barbados, St. Kitts and Antigua.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 5.

V ‘Ole George’ bouyant amidst failed attempt 6. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

People

DESPITE HAVING to abort his attempt to dance for seven days and enter the Guinness Book of Records, Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel is contented that other feats were achieved.

Daniel, a Vincentian social worker based in Canada, began his marathon dance effort on the evening of Thursday 31st May at the Peace Memorial Hall. He was forced to discontinue his attempt on Monday morning.

In all, Daniel had completed three days, nine and a half hours. He had targeted a total of 168 hours.

A fall on Sunday and the repercussions of that fall, caused his medical team to advise that he discontinue his effort.

Recounting his fall while speaking on Tuesday to THE VINCENTIAN, Daniel said, “I was dancing backwards towards the audience and had no idea that I was so close to the edge.”

Putting a philosophical twist to his unfortunate outcome, Daniel quipped, “A lot of us are living close to the edge with Diabetes, and there are those people who, when they are having

violent conversations with one another, the vile and anger that come out, they too are living close to the edge of violence”.

Daniel said: “My initial goal was to dance for Diabetes and Crime and creating awareness and also to break the Guinness Book of Records for the Longest Dance… Those two messages (Crime and Diabetes) got across and I am happy about that.”

He admitted “I am disappointed that the record was not made,” but consoled himself with the assurance that “that is secondary to what the message is going to do - to bring out positive changes here in St Vincent and the Grenadines,” and reasoned, “As it turned out, I had a plan, but mine was not in God’s plan.”

Marathon Undertakings/Future Projects In 2012, Daniel attempted to enter into the Guinness Book of Records when he danced for six days, to bring awareness to the suicide rate that was prevalent at that time in the

community of Inuits, Nunavik, located in the northern part of Canada and in which he extends his professional services.

But even before that, he had notched up a library of other walking feats, with some aimed at making the Guinness Book of Records or creating awareness to causes.

Among these were several walks here in St Vincent and Grenadines, with the first done in 1998 and the last on home soil in February 2017.

Regionally, Daniel has undertaken walks in Grenada, St Lucia, Barbados, and completed a seven days venture around Emancipation Park in Jamaica.

A walk around Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York for eight days in 2008, was highly acclaimed, but again failed to be earn Daniel a spot in the world’s most acclaimed record books.

And while he gives strong indication that he would not attempt that marathon dance feat again, he projected, “I am always adjusting my sights, keeping it relevant to today’s needs…I love dancing, and I have a project in mind; it is called Dance 24, which involves different Dance Competitions throughout the Caribbean, where people will be dancing for 24 hours and win prizes”, Daniel projected.

Gratitude Daniel exuded gratitude for all those who helped him in his attempt

Earl ‘Ole George’ Daniel getting an allowed light snack during his dance on Saturday.

Left: Another of Daniel’s moments during his aborted seven-day dance attempt. to dance for seven days.

Among his list were Phoenix Kitchen, Vee Jays Restaurant, Bassy Alexander, Coreas Inc. Coreas Food Division, Metrocint General Insurance, FLOW, all local radio stations and SVG TV. He also named Liat, Fitz Huggins, Howie Prince, Demarara Mutual, Anthony Theobalds from the Ministry of Culture, along with Denis Byam, the Ministry of Health in particular Permanent SecretaryCuthbert Knights, Dr Lennox Adams, New Montrose Hotel, Fort View, his medical team, time keepers, those who came and danced with him for the three days and other well- wishers.

Four receive a belated gift, courtesy of the ULP NDP! That election was violent and lifeIn fact, Mitchell had threatening, to Mitchell. lost along with Joshua the Morris held on for two South Central Windward terms forming part of seat to Offord Morris, an Labour’s reign of terror, up-and-coming star who broken in 1984 with the had been a convert from triumphant entry of the the PPP. Indeed, Offord NDP. had defeated the claims of Old and remorseful two leaders by a single Offord certainly deserves stroke, the leader of the some help from the States, old PPP and of the new likewise Calder Williams Continued from Page 8.

who danced about with his NRM but did provide assistance to the folk at the grass—root level in his later days.

This columnist only trusts that the small gesture paid to ‘Flick’, ‘Saga Quart’, Offord and Calder are seen, as just desserts, all things considered and not as election gimmicks.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 7.

News

Dick wins historic Police Debate interesting is that cigarettes and alcohol are substances that are known to possess zero medical advantage, yet they are sold in substantial amounts locally and globally.”

He supported his argument by referencing cause of death statistics from Australia and the USA. “There is a tobacco related death about every 28 minutes, adding up to 50 deaths per day… Annually, an estimated 88 000 Desron Dick- winner of the persons die from RSVG Police Debating alcohol related in Competition. the United States (of America) alone,” ABLE-BODIED SEAMANDESRON DICK, attached to Dick cited.

On the contrary, the St Vincent and the according to Dick: “There Grenadines Coast Guard has not been any Service, beat five other evidence of fatal overdose competitors, to become on Marijuana or any the best debater at the record of natural Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force’s Marijuana deaths, not even one…Nevertheless, Debating Competition, held last week Tuesday at Marijuana remains demonised in the minds the Calliaqua Town Hall. of persons in our society.”

Addressing the topic, ‘Should Marijuana be Recreational use decriminalised for medicinal and The recreational use of recreational use in SVG’, marijuana did not escape Dick, who was a Dick’s purvey, and while proponent, tallied 300 he deemed it the source points to top the of controversy, he did not competition. feign from declaring that In laying out his “Marijuana is currently argument, Dick drew used locally for that parallels with other purpose,” and deduced legalised substances, to that, “Decriminalise or wit, “What I have found

Trevor Grant of the week’s activities, the not, people are going to Eastern Division and use marijuana SVG Coast Guard, under Joanna Holder of regardless”. the watchful eyes of He also referred to the Administration, who Commander Brenton were against the local Rastafarian Cain and having question. community as being amassed 358 points, was Judges for the involved in marijuana declared the Week’s competition were René usage for years, overall winner, and took Baptiste, Cecil “Blazer” including for religious home the Prime Second place- Moise purposes, and purported, Williams and Sylvia Minister’s Trophy.

Cummings.

Jack.

“Is Marijuana The Coast Guard men hailed the Week as criminalized? Of course, and women had having accomplished its it is, (but) does this deter Overall winner dominated not only the objectives, and Rastas from using it… It Debating Competition commended the men and most definitely does not.”

Tuesday’s Debating but also the football, women of the RSVGPF He reminded his Competition formed past Road Relay and Track for their performances, audience that it costs the of the RSVG Police’s and Field competitions. especially during the state about $67.00 a day Week of Activities which Administration to care for one person culminated with an Division and Operations “historic debate.”

The Police Week of incarcerated for a Award Ceremony, Division were second and Activities was organized marijuana-related Saturday 2nd June at third respectively. by a special committee, offence. That, said Dick, the Police Canteen.

Commissioner of under the Chairmanship translates to $434 160.00 And the end of the Police (Ag) Colin John of ASP Trevor Bailey. to care for 36 inmates for a six-month period, adding “(And) the majority of these inmates comfortably fit right back into society and continue to delve in recreationally use of marijuana.”

Second to Dick was Moise s of the Western Division, while placing third was Edson Smith who represented the Central Division.

Cummings, like Dick, was a proponent, while Smith was an opponent.

The other competing debaters were Shawn Chandler, representing Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves presents trophy in his name to Commander Operations, who Brenton Cain of the SVG Coast Guard, overall an elated group of individual argued for, as well as winners of Police Week activities.

New Coast Guard Vessel expected by September ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Coast Guard’s fleet will get a major boost by the end of September this year, with the addition of a highly sophisticated Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV).

This assurance came from this country’s Prime Minister and Minister of National Security — Dr Ralph Gonsalves, as he addressed last Saturday night’s Presentation and Awards Ceremony for activities held during the 2018 Police Week.

Speaking at the Police Canteen, located in the Kingstown Vegetable Market, Dr. Gonsalves informed, “It’ s a re- conditioned vessel which will give over twenty years (of) service, and it is costing us close to seven million US dollars and we have already paid down the deposit.”

The OPV is a “highly sophisticated piece of equipment”, Dr. Gonsalves noted, and explained that it is fitted with apparatus to deal with those who are engaged in human trafficking and other forms of trafficking.

Disclosing some of the vessel’s capabilities, and sending a stern warning, Gonsalves boasted, “And they see us park up there doing work, and they think they can outrun us … We have something in the Offshore Patrol Vessel which we just exit right there, which can take care of you.

“I just want to advise all those who may think of wanting to get into those types of activities, that we are coming extra prepared for them,” the Minister for National Security added.

In preparation for the arrival and the deployment of the vessel, persons

have been sent to Barbados for training, with arrangements being made with the authorities in Trinidad and Tobago for additional training if needs be.

The Prime Minister indicated that more personnel could soon be employed to suffice the complement needed to adequately man the services of the Coast Guard.

Once acquired, Dr. Gonsalves said that it will put St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Coast Guard fleet’s above the others in the OECS. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, addressing last Saturday’s Presentation and Awards Ceremony at the Police Canteen.

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial ‘Beauty Pageants: Are they relevant?

ANOTHER MISS SVG PAGEANT is behind us. The ‘fat lady’ has sung’ and the organisers will commend the event as another success.

It must be that we join in extending congratulations to the winner, Miss Shellisa Nanton, and thank all the contestants for their courage and spirit.

Take it or leave it, the day this country moved from staging a Carnival Queen Show to a Miss SVG Pageant, even with the added trimmings — scholarship and all ‘innovative’ marketing strategies, including re-labelling, the event became a Beauty Pageant.

So, what is the purpose of these Pageants that parade girls of a certain figure? Is it to make money for the media? To entertain the masses? To affirm beautiful women of their beauty? To celebrate female beauty?

Pageants of this sort have sparked many debates over the centuries, dating back to their origin.

Pageants involving females are said to have been around since Ancient Greece, constructed around a myth about goddesses Hera, Aphrodite and Athena competing over who was the most beautiful.

Historians have found traces of pageants in the medieval era, where queens were selected to symbolize bounty and community during European festivals.

But the first actual beauty contest was during the Victorian era with Phineas T. Barnum, the circus guy, who developed from his ‘best animal’, ‘best flower’, to ‘best woman’ competitions.

This led the way for beauty pageants to be regularly held as entertainment for the middle class and tourists, with the first Miss America Pageant being staged in 1921 as a tourist attraction for Labour Day. But are Pageants good or bad?

The debate on the issue throws up both pros and cons. Pros: helps get rid of stage fright and boosts confidence; helps girls feel beautiful inside and out; provides scholarships and grants; teaches girls to express themselves and gives girls an alternative for sports; Cons: promotes sexist views, objectifying and sexualizing girls; lowers self-esteem because of the main emphasis on physical beauty; makes girls more cocky than confident; more money is spent than earned and pressures girls to strive for unattainable perfection, leading to depression, eating disorders and poor body-image

If the truth be told, most of the pros and cons can be applied to other competitions: sports, debates.

On the flip side, the pressure to be intellectual can have the same effect on self-worth, to the point where failing an exam deems you worthless. Without proper support, they can all lead down the same paths of cockiness or low selfesteem.

So, are Pageants outdated?

Then again, if they are not as different as any other competition, what’s the big deal?

The ‘hang-up’ could be in the fact that, take it or leave it, the women are being judged on beauty, physical appearance, and sexual appeal. Beauty is subjective. It’s not quite like having the ability to solve a trigonometry equation — there’s multiple viewpoints on what makes an individual ‘beautiful’.

Regardless of if the women showcase other talents, answer altruistic questions, promote their charitable platforms or one chosen for them, the fact still remains that they’re mainly being judged on outer beauty.

Liberal thinking would lead one to say that gender roles are changing and women are becoming more empowered, so much so that the ideal woman who truly represents the “spirit” of womanhood, has changed tremendously in the 21st century.

Gone are the days when only boys were told they could be prime minister but girls had to aspire to be beauty queens.

The traditions in which the beauty pageants are rooted, are no longer relevant today.

If we truly want to celebrate beauty, there should be more than one type of women competing.

Regardless of ethnicity, women should not have to put on makeup, walk in heels and meet certain beauty standards to enter.

Only then can we truly remove the Beauty from in front of Pageant.

For more and more women are balancing beauty and brains without having to parade in front of a paying crowd. More and more women are understanding that they don’t have to bank their selfworth only on physical appearance or only on intellect. More and more they are accepting that true beauty and confidence is knowing your worth as a human being.

Something to reflect on.

Four receive a belated gift, courtesy of the ULP WITH THE PRIME MINISTER wishing to set up a record of tenures in office, and with public money floating all over the place, the next election promises to be fiery from a ULP perspective, but with the faulty electoral system almost overhauled by exposure of most of its weaknesses and the promised alertness of the NDP, I look forward to a drubbing of the ULP by a confident NDP team triumphant with at least a doubling of seats, won by the departing ULP. Naturally, Dr. Gonsalves will try every trick in and out of the books, but one senses a clamour for change that is unstoppable. In patching up his fences all of a sudden, two old and discredited soldiers of the PPP —NDP, which are daily slandered by the ULP press and friends, are being extended government pensions and benefits. The lucky star twinkles on them in their nonage.

Afflick Haynes contested as an Independent in 1954 when leader of the PPP, comrade ET Joshua, declared that “no white man” could possibly win a seat now that the Black community can vote, for the first time!

Anyhow, Flick Haynes formed part of the first PPP Government after the 1957 elections.

After their return to power following Election 1961, he and another PPPite, owners of an Estate and passenger launches respectively, were encouraged by their membership of the Kingstown Club, to desert the PPP and join the SVLP which could then form the Government headed by Cato. Slater had second thoughts but Haynes had resigned before he was told of Slater’s change of mind.

Haynes led a small team to humiliating defeat in the 1966 Statehood elections.

Thereafter he migrated to Barbados where he remained until the turn of the century.

At this time of year he will be remembered that as PPP Minister of Social Affairs he was a smart looking chairman of carnival celebrations in the late 1950s!

As to Alphonso Dennie, he remains the perfect example of a priceless commodity tightly packaged in a small parcel. Now approaching 90 years and physically blind, he sees everything through sharp mental vision.

He was enamoured by Joshua’s style of politics in the 1950s, charmed by his militant thrusts geared towards the poor, and particularly his English phraseology spiced by the vernacular and quoting liberally from the bible and Shakespeare. Even today, one of ‘Saga Quarts’ (his popular sobriquet) famous quotes is of Joshua preaching over a microphone in a motor car over the hills of North Leeward as he approached Troumaca: “Crown Attorney Keith Alleyne, you charged me for sedition. Enjoy your summer, for your winter is surely nigh”.

Of course, the Privy Council quashed his conviction, like all others against Joshua, leaving him with an unblemished record!

Before becoming a Joshua recruit, Dennie was one of those roving elementary school headmasters who often took one or two of his brighter students to live with him, wherever he went. Dr. Adrian Fraser was a fine example- from Barrouallie to Gomea, to Union Island before winning a scholarship to the Boys Grammar School.

‘Saga Quart-’ finally found himself a very progressive Minister of Education in the famous Alliance Government, formed and led by “Son” Mitchell, and containing six PPP members and six Labour. During the short time that it lasted, Dennie did much for education, working hand-in-glove with the forum members, and reinstating Kerwyn Morris in the Grammar School from which he had been fired for political trespass. He was also instrumental in getting “Shake” Keane to be chairman of the Carnival Celebration Committee.

The life of the Alliance Government was cut short owing to the Joshuas’ shifting their support to the SVLP. Defeated in the subsequent election, Dennie left our shores for the USA via Barbados.

Dennie returned to SVG to greet the return of the NDP Government after the ‘Horne foh Dem’ election in 1984. I was honoured to have him serve the PSC of which I was chairman for 15 continuous years. I have always maintained that apart from pension, the Petit Bordel School should bear his name.

In between the early party switches of power, James Mitchell had formed his own Party- the NDP - in 1975, which formally entered the election struggle in 1979. He went to North Leeward partly to announce that the NDP candidate was St Clair Robertson. The crowd suggested that their man was Calder Williams of the New Rescuers Movement (NRM). Mitchell had a sudden change of heart, and there and then swore in Calder as a member of the NDP, and chose him as candidate for the next election.

In that election, the SVLP won handsomely, with the NDP winning the North Leeward and Grenadines seats through Calder Williams and Cosmos Cozier who promptly resigned, allowing Mitchell to take it in a subsequent by-election.

But before the latter could take place, Calder resigned from the NDP, formed his own partly, accepted the constitutional position of Leader of the Opposition and grabbed his entitlement to the naming of two-senators. When Mitchell eventually won his seat, he could only nurse his grievance and mediate revenge from the Opposition benches.

Continued on Page 6.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 9.

Letters

One wrong cannot correct another I READ LAST Week’s editorial column with the same level of anxiety as I have done for a very long time. I don’t always agree with you, Mr. Editor, but I cannot fault you for being ‘different’ - very often taking an issue out of that vicious cycle of discussion to which we so often fall prey and then get nowhere eventually as we keep going around and around, never seeming to stop at a point that makes sense.

Your piece on ‘Vigilanate Justice’ was timely and edifying as usual. And I agree with you, tooth and nail, that ‘There is no room for vigilante style justice in a modern society founded on laws and, more importantly, the impartial application of those laws.’

Vigilantism or the type of justice where community members take the law into their own hands, as they have just done at Petit Bordel and Questelles, does not take us forward but rather backwards. Now we must state up front that the alleged sexual

* Who should pay the legal fees for the two Ministers involved in the election petitions? Should it be the party or the government? * In which of the ‘FIRST QUARTERS” of 2018 will the Buccament Bay resort be re-opened? * Who are the entities so interested in importing sand just days after the announcement of the banning of sandmining here? Are these entities close to ‘high us’? Will they be fronting for any ‘high ups’? * How many persons understand that soca is a particular calypso beat, and the lyrics to such a beat do not have to be ‘am;, ‘wine’, ‘rum’, ‘raise yuh hand’, ‘jump’, etc.?

assault and rape of a 10year-old is a shame and a pain which we all share.

All right-thinking persons should stand up against such evil perpetuated against vulnerable members of our society. That a young child should suffer like this for such a prolonged time, is an affront to our morals.

The matter of holding a man guilty on some ‘would-be’ premise is just as bad.

People, as you, Mr. Editor, alluded to, cite the failings of the justice system as their reasons for taking matters into their hands. We cannot deny that a lot needs to be done to improve our justice system but, at the same time, one wrong

cannot correct another.

Justice that is meted by an angry mob without due diligence is actually injustice.

Really, if someone is accused by angry community members of committing a crime, is there a leader in that mob who leads evidence for and against the accused? Are there mechanisms to ascertain guilt or innocence, or is it just a race to throw the first stone? What about forgiveness and rehabilitation or even the possibility of the offender given an opportunity to restore and repay? Even the so-called biblical concept of an eye for an eye had to have a priest to evaluate the case and he called for witnesses before deciding the

merits of the case.

Lastly, the spectre of someone being killed by a crowd which possibly includes men, women and children, mars our society and feeds into the cycle of violence. Taking someone’s life, for whatever reasons, is not our right but God’s.

Your Friend, Paul

Politicians and Church not serious about crime

I WILL GET straight to the point.

Our politicians, especially those who form government, have either avoided or simply ignored their civic responsibility as it relates to crime.

To me, they employ the old approach, i.e. turn a blind eye. And by turning a blind eye to the real causes of crime, they are as much responsible for creating criminals as anyone or anything else. All in all, our politicians have failed to do anything meaningful to curb the increase of crime and the expansion of the criminal world.

And because they have failed to do anything substantial if anything to address this scourge, we now see ordinary citizens taking things into their own hands.

And as for those priests and pastors who are called to spread the Word of God among all people, they are preaching to the converted. Tell me, do our churches really get down in the trenches and engage the criminals where they exist? Our churches are supposed to be the guardians of morality. Have they lost their moral compass?

Also, to what extent do our churches assist the victims of crime?

We seem to have lost our way on this crime issue, but that’s no excuse for not coming together and redirecting our energy and resources to rid this small 2 by 2 place of this mounting crime in our midst.

Just thinking

SVG needs entrepreneurship policies INDEPENDENT politician, British war veteran, recipient of three medals - 1 Clasp red ribbon, economist Kadmiel McFee is calling the nation of SVG to vote for policies which offer great entrepreneurship opportunities.

SVG’s broken economy is crying out for policies that support entrepreneurship which will give its economy a much needed boost. Steep regulations and financings paired with inadequate workforce education and export markets, build barriers to entrepreneurship and new jobs for young people. This problem is greater here than elsewhere.

Entrepreneurship born out of necessity rather than opportunity can eat away at long term job creation and stagnate economic growth.

By empowering our youths with the

right skills and entrepreneurial spirit, they will be able to fight the economic downturn that is rampant throughout the Caribbean — the direct result of incompetent leaders over reliance on tourism and the drug trade and before that, sugar and bananas.

Our businesses aren’t innovative enough; laws are needed to ensure this happens.

With elections here not far off, the electorate of SVG needs to take full advantage of the nearing moment to demand policies of great entrepreneurship, rather than free food and party, and demand equality in income rather than handouts.

Our vote must say yes to policies that place entrepreneurship as the key driver of the economy of SVG. Kadmiel McFee

In defence of justice

THERE HAS BEEN much hue and cry by the Court of Public Opinion over the imposition of an eighteen-month sentence on a man, recently convicted of a sexual offence involving a five-yearold child. This article, written after much reflection, seeks to: clarify certain issues; put forward a feasible suggestion; and to denounce the actions of the public whereby our judicial officers are being vilified and subjected to unnecessary and unwarranted verbal abuse borne of ignorance.

Firstly, the defendant was not charged with rape; contrary to what is being published, he was charged with indecent assault and gross indecency. Rape is an indictable offence which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, and which can only be determined in the High Court, not in the Magistrate’s Court. The lesser offences of indecent assault and gross indecency are summary offences which are heard at the Magistrate’s Court. The maximum sentence which can be imposed for indecent assault on a child, is five years imprisonment, and one year for gross indecency. When embarking upon the sentencing process, the Magistrate or Judge does not start at the maximum. Rather, he/she starts at a midway point, then works his/her way upward or downward, depending on the mitigating or aggravating factors. On a plea of guilty, where there has been a breach of trust, our Courts, inclusive of the Court of Appeal, have approved sentences for indecent assault, between nine to eighteen months imprisonment, and in a contested trial, the approved sentences would be in the region of twelve months to three years.

The defendant in this case pleaded guilty and he had no previous convictions so that the Magistrate did not depart from the range of sentences, and the sentence imposed was in keeping with the guidelines set out by our Courts.

In light of the fact that there is a rapid increase in the prevalence of offences of a sexual nature in this country, particularly where the victims are young children, then perhaps our discussions should focus more on drawing Parliament’s attention to the need for amendment of legislation to reflect stiffer penalties, rather than on trying to bring our justice system into disrepute.

In defence of justice

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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The Splendid Record of the ULP and Comrade Ralph in Advancing the cause of Women in SVG – Pt 2

Record of the Comrade and ULP IN PARLIAMENT, in opposition (1994 – March 28, 2001) and in government (March 29, 2001 until May 2018, thus far), Comrade Ralph has been in the forefront on these issues relating to women. Examples abound of practical initiatives by the ULP government, including: 1. Legislation touching and concerning women and girls such as: The Domestic Violence ACT; the Status of Children Act; the Adoption Act; the Trafficking in Persons Act; and amending various pieces of legislation on criminal law and procedure which further protects the community (including women).

2. Enacting legislation which better protects all workers, including an increasing number of women in the actual workforce, such as a new Protection of Employment Act (the original one was passed by an earlier “Labour” government); and the Occupational Safety and Health Act. 3. Setting up a Major Crimes Unit in the Police Force, within which there is a specialized section on Sexual Offences and Violence Against Women; the establishing, too, of a Trafficking in Persons Unit in the Police Force.

4. Strengthening the state administration to better protect women and girls.

5. The enlargement of material benefits for males and females, but disproportionately in favour of women including the establishment of the HomeHelp-for-the-Elderly.

6. Providing or contributing greatly to the provision of early childhood education from about 20 percent of the relevant population (3 to 5 years old) to in excess of 90 percent today, thereby freeing up more women for the labour force.

7. Creating, or overseeing the creation of, over 6,000 new jobs since 2001, half of whom are women. The labour force has had a huge increase in the participation rate of women.

8. Carrying out an Education Revolution which has seen all girls at primary schools; all girls at secondary schools (under the NDP under 40 percent went to secondary school); open access to quality education at post-secondary education at the SVG Community College (over 60 percent are females) and university education (over 70 percent are females) ___ at UWI, Vincentian students are the largest single number from non-campus countries. Nursing students at the SVG School of Nursing, over 95 percent of whom are females, receive a free education and a monthly stipend of EC $1,000 (US $400) ___ an initiative specifically proposed and implemented by Comrade Ralph and the ULP. 9. Implementing a Housing Revolution since 2001 from which women have disproportionately benefitted (nearly 2,000 low-income houses built; over 4,000 building lots distributed; over $30 million of building materials distributed; 100 percent mortgages at the Stateowned commercial bank for central government employees, since October 2001 from which hundreds of women and families have benefitted).

10. Increasing the number of women in the Police Force from roughly 20 to in excess of 130 since 2001, including more women in the senior ranks; the youngest Assistant Superintendent of Police, a woman, was so appointed when she was only twenty-five years old; she is now in her early 30s and is the youngest Superintendent ever, not only in SVG but also in the Caribbean.

Women in positions Let us now examine the actual advance of women in the public service and the state administration.

Over the ULP’s 17 years the following have occurred: (i) Two of the four Cabinet Secretaries have been women; the last two have been so, including the current Cabinet Secretary; the longest service has been a woman. (ii) The two Accountant Generals have been women; the current one was recently appointed; the two deputies have been women; (iii) The Comptroller of Customs and Excise is a woman.

(iv) The two Directors of Audit have been women; so, too; their deputies; (v) The two Clerks of the House of Assembly have been women. (vi) The longest serving AttorneyGeneral ever in SVG has been a woman (2001-2017). (vii) The President of the Family Court, the Chief Magistrate, and Registrar of the High Court, are women. (viii) The Chief Justice of the OECS is a woman, unanimously agreed by the OECS Authority of which Comrade Ralph is the longest-serving member continuously, and at the time of the CJ’s appointment the only lawyer thereon. (ix) Over 70 percent of the principals in the primary and secondary schools are women; one of the two Directors of the Community College has been a woman; three of the four Deans currently are women. (x) Approximately one-half of the Consultants (Senior Doctors) at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital are women, up from a handful. The Hospital Administrator and Deputy Hospital Administrator are women. The Chief Medical Officer is a woman. In other senior positions in health, women are very well represented. (xi) Currently, the Permanent Secretaries in the following six Ministries are women: Education; Social Development; Housing; Economic Planning; Tourism; and Foreign Affairs.

There has been one PS in Economic Planning since 2001 and she is a woman ___ she is now retiring. (xii) Critical Departments in government and state enterprises are headed by women: Labour Department (Labour Commissioner and her Deputy are women); the Commerce and Intellectual Property Office (CIPO); which was set up by the ULP government; the Chairperson of the Accreditation Board; the Chairperson of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority; the Chairperson of the SVG Electricity Services; Chief Fisheries Officer at Fisheries Department; the Director of the National Emergency Management Office; the Manager of the state-owned radio station is a woman; so, too, is the Director of the Agency for Public Information; the Chief Education is a woman; also the Director of Airports. (xiii) The immediate-past Supervisor of Elections is a woman and the current one is also a woman. The opposition NDP virtually “terrorised” the immediate-past Supervisor of Elections. (xiv) In terms of diplomatic representation overseas, women have been most prominent since the ULP took office in 2001; its first appointment of the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of SVG to the United Nations in New York was a woman; the second was a man; and the third (the current one) is a woman. Currently at the SVG’s Mission to the United Nations the remainder of the staff save and except the driver are all women: The Deputy Permanent Representative is a woman; the first woman (31 years old) ever to be appointed to the post of Ambassador to the United States of America and the Organisation of American States (OAS) was done by the ULP government; the current Ambassador is a woman; since the ULP government established the SVG Embassy to Cuba, the two Minister Counsellors (Deputy Ambassadors) have been women; the current Minister/Counsellor of the SVG Embassy in Venezuela is a woman; the current Minister Counsellor (Deputy High Commissioner of SVG to the United Kingdom is a young woman (32 years old) to a long-serving man; so, too, the Counsellor position at our Embassy in London is a woman; at the SVG New consular Office, both the Investment and Trade Promotion Office and the Consul are women. (xv) Seven of the sporting and cultural Ambassadors, who are accorded the privilege of carrying a diplomatic passport, are women. (xvi) The two holders of the office of Governor -General’s Deputy have been women; the current one is. Since 2001, the ULP government has caused to be appointed one Governor —General but two Deputies.

One Nation! One People! One Vincy!

(Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s presentation at the 40th annual Convention of the NDP) We are here, knowing deep within our hearts that we can only succeed as a people by working together. Our presence here today is a bold and beautiful expression of our longing to be whole again, as a nation, as one people.

For too long, we have been pulled apart by the politics of hate and selfish greed. For too long, we have been laboring under the yoke of divide and conquer politics practised by those now in power, who have told our people —and continue to say that the only way to get ahead in this country, our blessed Hairouna, is to carry the right card, a red party card and to wear the right colour, a red shirt.

Our people have been told and they see around them that those who do so, eat well and grow fat, while their neighbours and even family members who do not follow this ULP teaching, suffer and die.

You know this is not our way; not the Vincentian way! We are raised in the Christian belief that we must look out for one another, as the Good Samaritan showed us; that we must be motivated not by hate and selfishness, but by love. What better time than today, on this glorious Sunday afternoon, to remind ourselves of this our true national character, and to express to one another and to those who could not be here today, our shared conviction to go forward in this positive manner.

My friends, fellow Vincentians, let us embrace a new way. I say new but, in truth, it is as old as the Bible itself.

But we have strayed too far away from it over the years, believing far too long what others have falsely professed: that politics cannot be guided by beliefs and principles that awaken within us our better natures and move us always to live and work accordingly.

They were wrong. I am pointing fingers here — Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP were wrong. We do not have to divide and conquer in order to prosper. We do not have to banish our neighbor to poverty and pain to prosper ourselves. There is enough for all of us. Or at least there can be, if we organize ourselves in the right way. And that is what I offer; that is what we in the New Democratic Party offer to our people. If you need any reminder of how badly the ULP way has failed us, simply reflect on the poor performance of our economy over the time they have been in power.

In relation to the general economic situation: The International Monetary Fund said in its report released last December that economic growth in SVG has been stagnant since 2009, at an annual average of 0.2 percent up to 2016, and the future does not look much brighter. The unemployment rate in our country stands at 25 percent (IMF); again this is worse than it was in 2001, when the ULP came to power. At that time it stood at 20.9 percent. Today, the youth (15 — 24 years) unemployment rate is estimated to be a staggering 46 percent. The national debt has gotten worse. In 2001, our debt- service ratio was below the Eastern Caribbean average. Today, it is higher than that

average. In fact, it is the highest in the Windward Islands and the highest in our country’s history.

The massive public spending by this government without accountability has imposed an oppressive debt burden on taxpayers, with little benefit to them. Our people are paying taxes every year to pay the growing government debt and are getting less for their sacrifice. Our country now has the highest taxes and the lowest wages in the OECS! Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP have taken us to the bottom of the OECS, while boasting and bragging all the way in their lies about the economy.

In relation to agriculture, in the year 2000, just before the ULP came to power, the banana industry was operated and managed by Vincentian farmers, and banana exports contributed $28 million to our GDP. Since taking over government, the ULP government essentially took over the management of the banana industry from the farmers.

The contribution of bananas to the economy declined after that, from $28 million to less than $1 million, and probably even less as we speak. In other words, the banana industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is dead! The people in this part of the country know it better than anyone else because who feels it knows it.

It did not have to be that way. Look at St. Lucia, where the management of the banana industry remained in the hands of the farmers, and the industry is growing and doing well.

This shows that our banana industry, which was one of the largest productive sectors in this country, was killed by the incompetence and mismanagement, some say spite of the ULP government.

The result has been painful, especially for farmers. I heard a farmer the other day on NICE Radio.

He was passionate and eloquent, as he spoke about the plight of fellow farmers in the country. And he was right! He was right when he said that farmers have held up their end of the bargain the government presented to them; they have worked and produced good banana to bring to the market.

But, the government has let them down; it has not held up its end of the deal. Black Sigatoka, as you know, was left to cause havoc in your fields.

Post hurricane Tomas relief was given out like charity, mainly along party lines, rather than on the basis of personal need and the requirements for recovery of the industry. Credit has dried up, fertilizer is beyond the means of most farmers. The government has left to struggle and fend for themselves. Many have simply given up.

What a difference a government makes! This area of the country, under Sir James Mitchell’s leadership, was the focus of a government land reform programme that made farmers owners of land and gave them the means to develop themselves. Today, the government says nice sounding words to you, in reality you know they have left you on your own.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 11.

Views

face an existential threat In pursuit of tertiary level education: IWe HAD AN INTERESTING CONVERSATION with a friend a few months ago. We had The importance of accreditation not seen each other for a little while,

“Accreditation is important because it: Helps determine if an institution meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality. Helps students determine acceptable institutions for enrollment.

Assists institutions in determining acceptability of transfer credits.” – The Accreditation Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, Washington, United States of America WE ARE ENCOURAGED by the number of individuals who continue to pursue higher level education. This is especially evident among the female population. An examination of the enrollment at our regional universities and community colleges reveals that females comprise a significant percentage of the student population. This is now a universal phenomenon. We commend all those who venture to improve their status via this mode of upward mobility and are especially encouraged by those (male and female) who strive for academic excellence. They pursue their studies with passion, and refuse to settle for average performances.

The emergence and expansion of the Internet has resulted in several institutions of higher learning (colleges and universities) seeking to venture beyond their domestic space in providing courses of study in a variety of fields. Several years ago, during a conversation with one of the senior members of staff at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies, it was disclosed that there were approximately one hundred and sixty (160) foreign educational institutions offering courses in the English-speaking Caribbean. Some were enticing prospective online students by offering courses at significantly lower costs than the regional education providers. While some of these services were provided by reputable, recognised, and accredited institutions of higher learning, potential students were cautioned to beware and be aware that “not all cheap things are good, and not all good things are cheap”.

Complaints sometimes surface that some of the certificates were not worth the paper that they were printed on.

Persons desirous of pursuing courses of higher education are encouraged to do the necessary research and be assured that the education providers are legitimate and accredited — that they have the “stamp of approval” to provide such courses.

Several years ago, I had the distinct privilege of being a member of a threeman accreditation team certifying one of the regional business schools. The team leader was selected from one of the more prestigious universities in the United States of American. The other member was an internationally recognized professor from the United Kingdom. The process involved a close examination of all the courses offered.

It was necessary to determine that the rigour and relevance met international standards. In addition, we examined the level and types of qualifications of the lecturers/facilitators. Such an exercise also required that we interview students, graduates, and employers. All of this was done to ensure that the institution was adequately meeting the needs of the various stakeholders.

Accreditation is now an imperative, as educational institutions seek to operate in an ever- increasing and competitive market space. It is one way of “separating the sheep from the goats” — ensuring that citizens get value for their money.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Accreditation Board was commissioned

by Act of Parliament in 2006 and became fully operational by 2008. It prides itself on being “the gatekeeper of a quality assured tertiary level education system in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”. Dr. Rosalind Ambrose is the Board’s Chairman. Other members include the Chief Education Officer, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health or his/her nominee, Director of the Community College or his/her nominee, the Attorney General or his/her nominee, the Chief Personnel Officer or his/her nominee, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Planning or his/her nominee, a representative from the Technical and Vocational Sector, a representative from the Workers’ Institute for Education and Research or any similar body, and representatives from the National Training Agency, the local Bar Association, Medical Association, Teaching Profession, Engineering Discipline, Architectural Profession, and the Accounting Discipline.

Among other tasks, the Accreditation Board is responsible for monitoring the tertiary level institutions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Students, prospective students, and school administrators can be much more comfortable and secure in knowing that individuals and institutions offering courses in our domestic space are authorised to do so. In addition, citizens can be assured that the programmes offered meet local, regional, and international standards.

Accreditation is important because it helps the various stakeholders to ascertain whether the institution meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality. This is especially critical when it is considered how modern technology allows for the relatively easy access to a variety of online courses. In addition, information technology allows potential students to be bombarded by a number of course providers (sometimes offering relatively low prices and easily accomplished course assignments).

Accreditation can therefore assist students in selecting reputable institutions for enrolment — verifying that they will get value for money.

Employers and potential employers can also feel more secure with their recruitment and promotion practices when they have confidence that the certifications are from credible/approved establishments. This becomes especially important if/when they contribute to the employee’s pursuit of academic courses by granting time off for studies or examinations and, in some cases, assisting with the payment of tuition fees.

We commend the local and regional professionals who dedicate their time and talent to provide much needed and valuable service to the various regional accreditation boards. Their insights and vigilance play a major role in supporting the region’s manpower development. We are forever grateful.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

and he disclosed that he was working on Canouan. Our conversation drifted from subject to subject, and then we settled on the weather. He said that he was convinced that Canouan had two suns: one shone in the day and the other at night. He said the place was hotter than anything he ever experienced.

It’s true! SVG is hotter than ever, and on certain nights, it is cooler than ever. There is no doubt that something is happening to our weather. We are in June now and when I was a youth, mango season would be in full bloom. But mangoes seem not to be seasonal any more.

They appear to be plentiful all year.

Maybe the trees will be overladen in a few months.

The weather is changing and we should be unsettled. Across the globe, the weather is topsy turvy. The proof is here for all to see.

Last year was once again one of the hottest years on record, ranked as the second-warmest by NASA and thirdwarmest by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

It was the second hottest year recorded. Amazingly, the six hottest years ever have all been witnessed and experienced in 7 years.

The findings “continue the planet’s long-term warming trend,” according to NASA — a trend that is driven predominately by human activity through carbon dioxide emissions.

Temperature records for the planet, monitored independently by both agencies, go back to 1880. The hottest year on record remains 2016, while 2015 ranks second according to NOAA, and third by NASA, which means the top three years have been the most recent three.

Though 2017 was slightly cooler on average compared to 2016, the trend towards a warmer planet has never been clearer. The six hottest years have all occurred since 2010, and seventeen of the eighteen hottest years on record have occurred since 2001.

According to NASA, the globally averaged temperature of the land and ocean was 0.9oC (1.62oF) above the 20th century average. This puts us well over halfway to the ambitious target of limiting warming to 1.5oC (2.7oF) set in the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement. Scientists, believe that if we are to avoid exceeding that limit, carbon emissions would need to be significantly reduced, starting immediately. However, we are in an even worse position two years on because President Trump has pulled the US out of the Paris Climate Agreement, and has removed many of the legal environmental restraints put in place by previous administrations.

Environmental scientists are convinced the slight downturn in temperatures this year can be partially explained by the presence of La Niña, which began in late 2016 and lasted into 2017, but returned late in the year. A robust El Niño was in place during portions of 2015 and 2016.

El Niño is characterized by a warming of the surface waters in the tropical Pacific Ocean - which tends to drive up global temperatures.

Therefore, years containing El Niños

tend to be warmer globally than other years. La Ninas, on the other hand, feature cooler than average waters in the Pacific, and tend to cool the planet down.

The fact that 2017 was the second or third warmest year on record, despite the presence of a cooling La Niña, speaks to the overall warming trend the Earth is experiencing, thanks to overall global warming.

According to scientists studying these weather patterns, if the effects of the recent El Niño and La Niña patterns were statistically removed from the record, 2017 would have been the warmest year on record.

The scientists made the ominous disclosure that sea ice continued its declining trend, both in the Arctic and Antarctic. The Antarctic, which was trending at record high levels just a few years ago, reached a record low during 2017, with ice covering 154,000 fewer square miles than the previous record low set in 1986.

In the Arctic, sea ice extent was the second-lowest since records began in 1979, behind only 2016, though record low sea ice was observed during the winter months of January-March.

Here’s the tricky thing that gets people who don’t understand the science into a tangle. These persons are invariably confused by what they see and believe this is the trending reality. As the scientists revealed, temperatures significantly warmer than normal around the planet did not mean there was a lack of snow, however. In the northern hemisphere, the average snow cover extent was the largest since 1985 and the eighth largest since records began in 1968.

2017 also featured a number of extreme weather events, most notably the record number of major hurricanes impacting the US and Caribbean, which proved to be especially destructive and costly.

Citizens in Dominica, Barbuda, Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Tortola, St Martin, Puerto Rico and residents in the southern cone of the USA suffered immensely and lost most of their belongings. These areas, most in the Caribbean, are slowly returning to normal.

Yet people play the fool with loose talk as it relates to global warming and climate change. Some genuflect to the reality of climate change, play it for all it’s worth, and do little in terms of educating the population about the serious challenges we face and how they can be overcome. Others talk glibly about climate change prostitutes, and offer spiritual wickedness as an explanation for nature’s wrath. Still others say climate change simply does not exist.

Only with a proper scientific understanding of global warming and climate change, will we be able to devise a strategy for survival. And even with a strategy, our environmental problems remain the main existential threat facing us now.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG must ditch Taiwan IN MAY 2018, the country of Burkina Faso established diplomatic relations with China and cut its ties with Taiwan, having maintained ‘on and off’ ties with Taiwan since 1961. Taiwan now has only one ally left in Africa – the tiny kingdom of Swaziland - and formal relations with just 18 countries, many of them poor nations in Central America and the Pacific.

The Burkina Faso foreign ministry said, “The evolution of the world and the socio-economic challenges of our country and region push us to reconsider our position”.

Burkina Faso is the fifth country to cut ties with Taiwan since Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen Tsai came to office in 2016, following the Dominican Republic, Gambia, Sao Tome and Principe and Panama. The Vatican is possibly next, as the Holy City and China edge closer to an accord on the appointment of bishops there.

In March 2016, The Gambia established diplomatic relations with China and cut ties with Taiwan, having maintained ties with Taiwan

since 1996.

In December 2016, Sao Tome and Principe established diplomatic relations with China and cut its ties with Taiwan, having maintained ties with Taiwan since 1997.

In June 2017, Panama established diplomatic relations with China and cut its ties with Taiwan, having maintained ties with Taiwan since 1911.

In May 2018, The Dominican Republic established diplomatic relations with China and cut its ties with Taiwan, having maintained ties with Taiwan since 1949.

It is high time that SVG cut ties with Taiwan too.

Taiwan allegedly creams-off about EC$2 billion annually from SVG’s High Seas Fish Licence and the use of SVG’s national flag on its fishing vessels that sail in international waters. Taiwan is holding back our economy, as Taiwan does not pay any tax.

Taiwan has failed to invest in SVG and create strong sustainable

industries. Taiwan has been in SVG for over 30 years and not built one factory in SVG. Taiwan is technologyadvanced, but has not provided SVG with any technology transfer. Taiwan has not set up any trade deals to help SVG export to Taiwan.

In over 30 years, how much (goods) has Taiwan imported from SVG companies? Even though it is obvious that our economy is weak and our people are suffering, Taiwan does not set up bi-lateral trade deals with SVG. Taiwan’s presence in SVG is holding back our economy. All the countries ditching Taiwan believe that their new relationship with China will lead to investment opportunities, trade, particularly the export of more goods

from their country to China.

This is what SVG needs — a partner who will help SVG’s companies to export. We should cut ties with the parasite Taiwan and form ties with China. This would boost our economy and create thousands of new jobs.

The President of Burkino Faso gave instructions to “take all the necessary measures for the closure of our embassy in Taipei and Taiwan’s embassy in our country”. It will be a joyous day in SVG when the Taiwan embassy here closes, as Taiwan is keeping our people poor and our economy weak.

SVG Green Party

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 13.

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Carnival Feature

L-R: 1st Runner-up, Criscione Morgan; Miss SVG 2018, Shellisa Nanton, and 2nd Runner-up, Cameisha Foster.

Shellisa Nanton:

Lucky Miss Lotto

Flow - Solonge Fernadez, propagated the issue “Entrepreneurship” Focus on Women’s founded on her own issues passion for fashion design. Miss Vincentian The introduction of chocolate - 22-year-old the ladies via video was Cameisha Foster of a different touch, but Green Hill highlighted some questioned the the struggle women have removal of the ‘in person, with “Self Doubt & on stage introduction’, Naysayers”. since, they posited, this Employee at the Audit would have given the Department - 21-year-old contestants a chance to Miss Metrocint General quell their nerves going Insurance Company into the actual judging of Limited Nazira Graham the competition. came out “Encouraging But the objective to Women In Business”, have an overall “Women while Miss GECCU - 21Who Empower” theme, year-old Azaniah Lavia with each contestant from Owia took on the highlighting various campaign of “Supporting issues affecting women, Families of Cancer might have been a Victims”. gender mainstreaming Chateaubelair move, but an impacting resident, 20-year-old one.

Morissa Williams, Miss Adelphi Village Massy Stores SVG Ltd, resident 22-year old Miss currently a student at Continued from Front Page.

the Community College, highlighted the importance of “Self Esteem”, while Criscione Morgan, 23-year-old, Miss Mustique Company Ltd, flagged the issue of “Education As A Gateway Out of Poverty”.

Miss Lotto - Shellisa Nanton, a 23-year-old Overland native, who is a Customer Service Representative at the Argyle International Airport, advocated on behalf of “Youth”.

Judged categories The first judged category and a favourite with many, was the Swim Wear section.

Contestants displayed a kaleidoscope of monokini tribal prints from renowned swim suit Continued on Page 15.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 15.

Carnival Feature

Best Talent winner and 2nd Runner-up, Cameisha Foster, Miss Vincentian Chocolate.

Best Swimwear winner, Nazira Graham, Miss Metrocint General Insurance Company Limited.

Best Evening Wear winner, Miss SVG 2018, Shellisa Nanton, Miss Lotto.

Shellisa Nanton: Lucky Miss Lotto

Continued from Page 14.

designer “Pinky-Ton”.

While the use of colour gave a very tropical feel, concern was raised about the design being suitable for the different figures on display. In the final analysis, it was Miss Metrocint General Insurance Ltd Nazira Graham se fit physique gave her the Best Swim Wear title.

Adorned in her stunning predominantly emerald green Evening Wear, designed by Kimon Baptiste-St Rose, 23-year old Shellisa Nanton,with an air of angelic grace about her, walked away with the Best Evening Wear category.

And as if to demonstrate that she was more than just a pretty face, she copped the Best Interview Segment, answering her questions in a way that was able to highlight how she overcame bullying to fuel her success, and to champion the Rastafarian cause to be able to live and practise their religion without

Award. interference.

During the interview The intermittent segment, which consisted entertainment acts by of a question from the bios of the contestants and a randomly selected one, it appeared that Miss Mustique Criscione Morgan had the same question about health twice. She overcame that predicament with some degree of ease.

Criscone would accumulate enough points to be adjudged First Runner-Up. Miss Vincentian Chocolate Cameisha Foster took the Second Runner Up Spot and Best Talent with her hilarious dramatic piece.

Clad in a khaki suit with trimmings of Rastafarian colours, sporting dreadlocks and armed with rod in hand, she played out having received a vision from Haile Selassie I, who advised women not to stress over the menfolk in their relationships.

Miss Massy Stores Ltd Morissa Williams, was adjudged winner of the Miss Congeniality

the band “Resonance” and Sarah Mark, Hance John and Rodney Small

sought to bring an entertaining bridge between segments of the

opening show of Vincy Mas 2018.

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16. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

Calypso Queen Competition is back THE NATIONAL QUEEN of Calypso Competition is back on the Vincy Mas calendar.

Organised by the Calypsonians Association, the showdown among the female bards is scheduled for the Russell Auditorium, June 8.

Up for grabs is a first prize of $2500, with $1500 and $1,000 for second and third places respectively.

Fifteen finalists emerged from an audition. Among them is one former Calypso Queen, Cecile ‘Lil Bit’ King, who won the title in 1995, when the

Calypso enthusiasts will be eager to see how junior sensation Kristiana ‘Singing Kristy’ Christopher fares among the seniors.

Competition was organsied by the Calypso Theatre Calypso Tent, under the management of Kenneth ‘Scakes’ Alleyne.

This standout attribute and her twenty-five years in the arena must make her a force to be reckoned with on any calypso stage. She will want to maintain that seniority and superiority this evening.

Also among those considered to win the crown is Jonna ‘Nubian Princess’ Christopher. She stormed into the front line of the Calypso arena taking the number three position in the 2017 National Calypso Monarch Competition.

Shaunelle McKenzie took a string of Primary and Secondary School Calypso Monarch titles before she graduated to the seniors’ stage. A versatile artiste, she will consider any stage her domain.

Sheena Collis debuted last year and progressed through all stages of the national calypso competition. She sees only up from her on.

Cleopatra ‘Cleo’ Hendrickson is a consistent performer. She is now an established artiste, and is bent on raking in her first national title.

Kristiana ‘Singing Kristy’ Christopher hails from Layou, as do Joanna Christopher and Cleo. She has been a force among Junior Calypsonians. She has demonstrated a high degree of craft and confidence that will serve her well among the

seniors.

M’riah ‘Singing Saiah’ Robertson stormed to the Junior Soca title last year, dethroning Singing Kristy. This clash will continue within the broader clash, as the youths battle to change the face of calypso here.

Denise ‘Lady D’ Stephens, no stranger to the stage, will, as she is accustomed doing, put her everything into this venture. She is determined to prove that the title is not beyond her.

Brianca Matthias will not be taken for granted. She has been creating her niche and will see this outing as a ladder to climb.

Sherikah Richards is a member of the On Tour Calypso Tent, and is a seasoned support vocalist. She will be anxious to open a trail of royalty for herself, starting with this title.

Marvo Morgan will see this opportunity as straight up her street.

She took front stage in the calypso circuit last year, and will take on any contender in the battle for royalty.

Felicia ‘Nubian Empress’ Alexander will endeavour to justify her final selection and earn something for her herself.

Rolmina ‘Singing Rolie’ Matthews is a teacher from the North Leeward district of Petit Bordel. Culture comes naturally to her. She will want to show she is ready for the big league.

Sashe ‘Patience’ Rogers will look to be calm and watchful about her place

Cecile ‘Lil‘ King, the only one in the competition who would have tasted victory at this level. among those more experienced than she is.

Sylvon ‘Royal Gem’ Lavia would hope she can turn her sobriquet into real meaning on the night of the competition.

Kijah Gani and Gillian ‘Fiesha’ Smart remain on standby as the two reserves.

Musical accompaniment will be by the Festival Band.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 17.

Feature

Taiwan: Our Ally

DESPITE PRESSURE from the People’s Republic of China which, among other things, has resulted in Taiwan’s exclusion from the World Health Organization (WHO), even as an observer, allies like Canada and New Zealand have come forward recently to call for Taiwan’s participation in that international body.

However, with Panama and the Dominican Republic and most recently Burkina Faso having severed ties with Taiwan, the ramifications of Mainland China’s intervention are still being felt.

As it remains, Taiwan has only 18 diplomatic allies worldwide.

Even in the face of mounting challenges, President Tsai Ing-Wen insists that Taiwan will not bow to Beijing’s pressure, and refuses to engage in a battle of ‘dollar diplomacy’ with China.

This pressure, however, has resulted in tourism from mainland China to Taiwan being cut in half from 4 million to 2 million. The real estate market and industry generally have also felt the impact.

The Government emphasizes that China’s efforts to switch Taiwan’s allies and reduce Taiwan’s diplomatic presence will neither narrow the gap between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, nor lead to peace and friendliness in the crossstrait relationship. Rather, Taiwan says, it would stoke anger and disappointment amongst the people of Taiwan towards the Chinese government.

Ambassador Timothy Hsiang, Secretary General of the International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF).

L-R: Slavka Menke of Nauru; Jeanelle Mencias of Belize; Bentaake Kiima of Kiribati; Senator Phillip Reklai of Republic of Palau; Deputy Minister Chui-Cheng Chiu, of the Mainland Affairs Council; Welcome Dlamini of Eswatini; Rhandez Browne from St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Rinald Toito’ona of the Solomon Island and Earl Bousquet of St. Lucia.

Allies were urged to remember that Taiwan always fulfils its promises, and that its consistency, commitment and goodwill will not change.

Relating to China Taiwan has maintained its focus on maintaining its democracy, while working with and continuously cooperating with the mandates of the People’s Republic of China, all the while developing its own economy and fostering independent regional and international relations. When meeting with press personnel from eight of its

allies during a recent visit to the country, Deputy Minister Chui-Cheng Chiu, Ph.D., voiced his support of this policy and for Taiwan remaining an independent Taiwan.

President Tsai has led diplomatic talks and conflict resolution initiatives with the People’s Republic of China, and has consistently pushed for the model of mutual trust and respect, all in the interest of maintaining a peaceful status quo.

According to Ambassador Timothy T.Y. Hsiang, Taiwan still strives to foster and maintain a supportive and friendly relationship with the People’s

Republic of China, with the two governments continuing to work together to promote relationship built on mutual trust between

both countries.

In recent months, Taiwan has intensified its efforts to strengthen its international participation and even with its exclusion from the World Health Assembly this year, they have not given up. They have done what they can to engage meaningful discussions with other countries about global health issues, having itself, made great strides in the medical field, placing the country in the forefront where medical innovation is concerned.

Taiwan continues to foster ties with countries that share their values and interest.

Education in Taiwan- a viable option

Rolissa Ballantyne (pictured above) and other students from allied countries and members of the press engaged in an open forum, sharing their experiences when studying in Taiwan.

THE NATIONAL PINGTUNG UNIVERSITY of Science and Technology (NPUST), established in April of 1924, is the largest unified campus grounds in Taiwan, covering some 293.3 hectares. It boasts 26 departments, 35 masters programmes, 8 doctoral programmess, 1 international bachelor’s degree programme and 2 international master’s degree programmes.

These programmes are distributed among the faculties of Agriculture, Engineering, Management, Humanities and Social Sciences, Veterinary Medicine and the International College.

The NPUST has positioned itself as another option for Vincentians desirous of pursuing tertiary level studies, and are invited to

take advantage of the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Taiwan Scholarship and the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) Scholarship programmes, facilitated through its embassy.

The ICDF provides scholarships in undergraduate, graduate and Ph. D fields in partnership with universities throughout Taiwan.

SVG benefits from Taiwan scholarships

Since St. Vincent and the Grenadines The MOFA Taiwan established diplomatic Scholarship programme relations with the was launched in 2004 to Republic of China encourage outstanding (Taiwan) on August 15, students to pursue studies 1981, the two (countries) in Taiwan, leading to a have maintained a very deeper understanding of close relationship.

Taiwan’s culture and But it was not until academic environment.

2004 that, in a bid to It was created further promote specifically for the benefit knowledge, understanding of countries with whom and friendship between Taiwan enjoyed diplomatic the people of the two relations, but special countries, Taiwan and St. considerations have been Vincent and the given to students from Grenadines, the first four other countries. scholarships were offered to Vincentians to pursue studies in Taiwan.

Since then, over 143 Vincentians have taken advantage of scholarship opportunities in Taiwan.

One of those is 26-yearold Rolissa Ballantyne of North Union, whom THE VINCENTIAN caught up with during a visit to Taiwan.

Ballantyne is a final year student pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree at the Department of Agriculture MOFA and ICDF Scholarships

A partial view of the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology. and International Cooperation at NPUST. She is a graduate in Business from the Girls’ High School and Environmental Science from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, and having decided that agriculture was her passion, gained acceptance from the NPUST and was successful in obtaining an ICDF scholarship through the local embassy.

According to her, the first year was a challenge, having to learn a new language — Mandarin.

She admits her Mandarin could use some work, but she was able to learn from her classmates, and they were very eager to learn the English language from her. Fortunately, her classes are conducted in English.

She adds that her studies in Taiwan have further heightened her interest in agriculture, particularly in animal nutrition.

Ballantyne urges more Vincentians to research and apply to the school and take advantage of the scholarships offered by Taiwan.

There are currently two Vincentian students among thirty-two from partnering countries, taking advantage of ICDF Scholarships at NPUST. And even if a scholarship is not granted to every person who applies, according to one St. Lucian student, “It is great to do your research as you may find that even without the scholarship, the cost for education at universities in Taiwan can be quite affordable.”

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18. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Carnival

Mardi Gras Parade venue still undecided ACCORDING to a source from within the Carnival Bands Association (CBA), its members had all but resigned themselves to preparing for a return to Victoria Park, for the primary Mardi Gras Parade for Vincy Mas 2018.

This, according to the source, was based on the fact that the unanimous decision by the CBA membership to return to

Victoria Park was communicated in writing to the Carnival Development Coporation (CDC), and to which there was no indication of objection from the CDC. However, it was brought to the attention of THE VINCENTIAN, that a poll was being conducted on the Facebook page of the

CDC, soliciting views on whether the parade should continue at Little Tokyo, as happened last year for the first time, or return to the traditional venue - Victoria Park.

A representative of a mas band - a full member of the CBA — interpreted this move by the CDC as its way of having the public determine where the

Victoria Park for Mardi Gras? To be or not to be? parade should be held.

“The move by the CDC to put the CBA and the public against one another by using a social media poll to determine something that should be a decision between the CDC and the CBA, is another indication of the CDC’s disrespect and disregard for a major component of Carnival,” the representative told THE VINCENTIAN. “It seems year in year out, that the CDC is locked in battles with the major components of

carnival. Why is that so?

Maybe the components should withdraw from the carnival and let’s see what would happen,” the mas band representative added.

THE VINCENTIAN visited the CDC Facebook page on Wednesday, and saw that the poll referred was an active one. The result then showed 56% of the respondees in favour of Little Tokyo with 46% for Victoria Park.

Efforts to reach someone in the CDC with

the authority to address the issue failed up to press time on Wednesday, but an Executive member of the CBA, when contacted, did confirm that the letter relaying the unanimous decision of the CBA members to return to Victoria Park, had been received by the CDC. Up to Wednesday, there still was no official statement with respect to the venue for this year’s Mardi Gras Parade.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08 , 2018. 19.

Law

Freeing up the herb for religious purposes MEMBERS of the local Rastafarian community will soon be able to legally use cannabis in their place of worship.

Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar told members of Parliament on May 24 that a Bill was in its draft stage for the consideration to allow Rastafarians to use cannabis for religious purposes.

“For the most part, the intention is to address the usage of cannabis as a sacrament by our brothers and sisters in the Rastafari levity,” Caesar said in response to a question posed by Parliamentary Representative for North Leeward, Roland Matthews. The MP had wanted an update on the process leading to the establishment of a medicinal marijuana

industry here.

“For decades, Rastafarians have appealed, struggled and toiled for the permission to use herb as a sacrament within their place of worship.

Tolerance has been exercised, by the authorities, however, it is the intention of what will be a landmark decision, to legislate for the allowance of the use of the herb as a sacrament,” he continued.

Consultations involving all the “mansions of Rastafari” throughout the country are expected to continue, the minister said.

As far as progress with respect to a medicinal marijuana industry was concerned, it was explained that as discussions of this issue intensified in December 2017, a legal expert was

No ÂganjaÊ in the forests

A DRAFT BILL is yet to be brought before the Parliament for the establishment of the proposed medical marijuana industry here, but already government has made it clear that cultivation of the crop will not be done in the forests.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves made the point on May 31, one day before the official start of the 2018 hurricane season.

He said that he was hoping that the medical cannabis industry will help the forests, Prime Minister Dr in that people would not have Ralph Gonsalves said that the to go into the forest and cut cultivation of down trees to plant the crop marijuana in illegally. forested areas will “There are people who be prohibited, once would want to still do that, the medicinal but we have to be vigorous,” marijuana industry Gonsalves said.

“Be rest assured, no one is is set up. going to get a licence to grow medical marijuana in the forests; they are not getting that,” he said.

According to the prime minister, there will be no need for farmers to venture into forested areas, once the industry has been set up.

“It means that we have enough land to grow medical cannabis because we have to protect our watersheds, our forests, and just in case a man thinks he has illegally occupied land in the bush that he will get a licence?”

He said that the Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar had not spoken on the issue, but he did.

Persons will not be allowed to go up in the forests as the industry will be organized in such a way that there will be no need for it, Gonsalves said. (DD)

contracted by government to draft appropriate legislation for the setting up of the industry.

This document was still in the draft stage.

A copy of the draft is expected to be made available for public

discussion in the next two weeks.

It was being anticipated that the Bill will make its rounds in Parliament by While there has been a relaxation in the imposition of the August this law banning the use of marijuana for any purpose year, Caesar whatsoever, Rastafarians here will welcome the removal of said. (DD) the ban against the herb’s use in their religious ceremonies.

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

No title deed on your life Dear George,

MY BOYFRIEND has cheated on me more times than I can remember, but I chose to stay with him because he saved my life two years ago. I am indebted to him.

However, I have got to a point where I want to walk away from the relationship, but I do not want to appear

ungrateful. How can I get him to stop cheating without upsetting him?

Grateful Dear Grateful,

his cheating ways and let You deserve better and should demand him know you will no longer be the walk over better. girl to which he has grown accustomed.

George

Talk to him civilly

Yes, your boyfriend has saved your life, but it does not give him the Dear George, title deed to your life. He does not own you. You HOW MANY TIMES need to seriously address must I ask my husband not to get into bed drunk or smelly? I’m fed up now with his slack behaviour. He takes me for granted and thinks I’m gonna put up with

it. I don’t know why he thinks I would enjoy making love to him in such a terrible state. I’m sick of it!

Keep your neighbour far

Turned off

Dear George,

Unsure

Dear Turned off,

MY NEIGHBOUR has told me that my husband is about to divorce me and marry her. I did not take her seriously until I accidentally bumped into my husband at a jewelry store. He was looking at rings. He was startled when he saw me, and blurted out that he was looking at rings because he wanted to surprise me with the ring I never had.

Should I believe him or my neighbour?

Dear Unsure,

You need to sit your husband down and lay out your concerns to him in a civil manner. He needs to respect your wishes, and because of that respect for you, he should not have any issues going the extra step to please you.

You are not asking for much. He ought to start paying attention to the little things.

George

You have to ask yourself: Was it your neighbour you married or your husband?

The thing to do is to take your husband’s word for it and remind your neighbour not to meddle in your affairs.

Maybe your neighbour got it wrong. Things could turn sour if you pay credence to what she is saying. Stay focused!

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Older family members may try to make demands that are impossible for you to han‐ dle. Go out with friends. Knowledge can be acquired if you listen. Don't let your health suffer because of worry. Talk to someone you trust.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Look into events that you might find interest‐ ing, and compromise by doing a few things that you both like to do. Don't let your boss make you feel guilty enough to take work home with you. You might have some prob‐ lems balancing your books.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Concentrate on work and on making money.

You must make sure that all your personal documents are in order. Take a break; you can finally mend any disputes on the home front.

Your time, not your cash, will do a lot more for your relationship.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Your ability to put things together will be appreciated by your comrades. Your best efforts will come through making changes in your home. Camping, swimming, and biking expeditions should all be considered. You may not have the same ideas when it comes to what you both enjoy.

favorable, and larger quarters the most proba‐ ble direction.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Don't overspend to impress others. False infor‐ mation from someone trying to start problems is likely. Health problems may prevail if you haven't been getting enough rest. Seminars will provide you with knowledge and amuse‐ ment.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You should be putting your cash into long‐ term investments like real estate. You can expect opposition from family as well as col‐ leagues. You might have a problem juggling your time. Major job changes or opportunities to get ahead professionally are apparent.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Matters pertaining to work must be complet‐ ed before you leave. Elders may need your help. If you are not already, think about going into business for yourself. Don't give them the use of your credit card.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Don't allow someone to do a job that was des‐ ignated specifically for you. Travel opportuni‐ ties must be taken advantage of. You can receive recognition for the work you've done.

Let your lover know what your personal inten‐ tions are.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Be careful when dealing with superiors. You should get into programs that will enhance your appearance and help you to be the best that you can. Don't donate more than you can afford in order to impress others. Your intuition will be right on.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Catch up on any correspondence you've neg‐ lected. You might find it difficult to control your emotions. You will have no trouble get‐ ting things to fall into place. Your ability to help others will win you points.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Your dramatic approach to life has probably gotten to your mate. You can ask for favors and get sound advice from close friends or relatives. Your ability to talk circles around your colleagues will help you forge ahead in the workforce. Residential moves will be

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Get the red tape and the unwanted paperwork out of the way. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you're not arrogant. Make career changes that may increase your income. Don't overreact to someone's advances.

ACROSS 1. Narrow strip of wood 5. Clothes 9. Observation 12. River in central Switzerland 13. Auricular 14. Tear 15. Colored 16. Gentlewoman 17. Highest mountain in Crete 18. Irritate 20. Progressive emaciation 22. Attract 25. Sacramental anointing 26. Full of foam 27. Search 28. Former weight for wool 29. Head covering 30. Monetary unit of ` V ietnam 33. Iceberg 35. Australian acacia 37. Large white stork 40. Uncovered 41. One‐celled protozoa 42. Exclamations of surprise 43. Metal container 44. Large bag 46. Clublike weapon 50. Relatives 51. Beige 52. First man 53. 1 54. Hold as an opinion 55. Lets head fall wearily DOWN 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Sorrowful Put Down Part of the verb to be Tediousness Soft State in the W United States 7. Part of the verb to do 8. Tool for cutting grass 9. Small antelope 10. Waits 11. Sudden convulsion

19. Attempt 21. Vessel built

by Noah 22. Toward the stern 23. Forfeit or sum paid into the pool 24. Chield 25. Brown‐ capped boletus mush‐ room 27. Sink or bend backwards 29. French vineyard 30. A dynasty in China 31. Malt beverage 32. Advanced in years 33. Front part of an apron 34. Rubbed out

35. Miles per hour 36. Sycophant 37. Hollowed pumpkin 38. Full speed 39. The sesame plant 40. Loose fiber used for

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 21.

caulking 42. Land measure 45. Very skilled person 47. Fuss 48. Vulgar, ill‐ bred fellow 49. Printer’s measures

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 23.

Llewellyn apologises NEW YORK-BASED, Francis David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn who, along with Sean Stanley, was banned from all activities of the Association for one year, has issued a formal, written apology for his behaviour that gave rise to the action taken against him.

In a letter date June 03, 2018 and addressed to Orville Haslam, President of the SVG Table Tennis Association, Llewellyn wrote, “I would like to extend my sincere apology for an incident that transpired on 04/28/2018 at the National Tournament….. I apologize again, for my behaviour and response to this accusation, but felt that I had to defend myself at the time. I should have waited until after, but my accuser was making the situation embarrassing and detrimental to my career and character.”

Llewellyn was especially mindful of the impact his behaviour had on the younger players, and in addressing them in the letter said, “I apologize to all the young members, for not demonstrating how a crisis can be handled without conflicting behaviours. I realize how strongly my actions or reactions could affect a young mind. I can

promise you with all my heart, that I will never give in too such behaviour again, and hope that I can build up your trust in me again.”

Llewellyn and Stanley were involved in a heated exchange after one of their matches in the Masters catgory of the recent National Table Tennis Championships.

The exchange continued after the match and well after the evening’s full slate, in view of players, spectators and executive members of the Association.

Llewellyn and Stanley were brought before the Association’s Disciplinary Committee on 22nd May, charged with bringing the game of Table Tennis into disrepute. They had submitted individual reports on the incident prior to the Disciplinary Hearing.

After concerted deliberation, the decision was taken to ban both individuals from participating in any SVG Table Tennis Association hosted and/or related activity, for a period of one year.

Stanley, a National Table Tennis Coach, the Association’s Technical Director and Chairman of the Selection Committee, was also

Francis David “Sky’ Llewellyn has heeded the Table Tennis Association’s request, and officially and formally apologised for his recent unbecoming behaviour. relieved of his duties as well as his Executive position.

The players had also been asked to apologize for their misconduct to the parents and

children who witnessed the incident.

In a related matter, the Association has moved to correct reports that indicated that Senior player, Robert Ballantyne had walked out of the

Two young Vincentian footballers off to Russia DELANO BENJAMIN AND JADE BROWNE have been afforded the opportunity to represent St Vincent and the Grenadines at the sixth staging of the Gazprom Football for Friendship Programme set for 8th to 15th June in Moscow , Russia.

The two Vincentians would be part of the oneweek International Social programme ahead of the FIFA World Cup Finals, to be held also in Russia.

They are among persons of their age from 211 countries who would be engaged in youth football and healthy lifestyles activities, as well as the promotion of tolerance, openmindedness and respect for one another’s cultures and nationalities.

Benjamin, who plays for local Football Club — Volcanoes, and Browne for Avenues United, like

their peers in the programme, will be seeking to spread core values of friendship, health, victory, peace, equality, devotion as well as fairness.

The participating students have been split into 32 international teams of friendship in the Football For Friendship International Championships.

Benjamin and Browne are in the group called the Rhinoceros, along with South Sudan, Tonga, Austria, Togo, Iceland and Finland.

In the championships, Benjamin, who is the grandson of legendary Vincentian footballerGuy Lowe, will play as a forward, while Browne will perform the duties as a Journalist.

Excited about his trip, Benjamin expressed delight, as it is the first time he is travelling.

“It is my first time

Up to press time, Wednesday, there was no indication that Sean Stanley (pictured) has issued an apology.

Delano Benjamin

Jade Browne

travelling, and I am really excited and I hope to do well and show my skills in the matches I play,” Benjamin related.

Browne expressed similar sentiments, as he stated, “I am quite excited… I am looking forward to have a good time.”

Benjamin and Browne will get added exposure as they would be part of the Opening Ceremony of the FIFA World Cup and witness the first match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at the

Luzhniki Stadium, on 14th June.

The two 12-year-old Form One students of the St Vincent Grammar School were set to depart St Vincent and the Grenadines yesterday, Thursday, for England en route to Russia.

They are accompanied by their mothersAkeshia Lowe (Benjamin) and Janielle Browne.

All expenses for the trip have been borne by the organisers.

Presentation Ceremony in anger. The Association confirmed that Ballantyne left the venue in a normal manner after he had completed his last match of the Championships.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Netball Association mourns Sonja Lewis THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Netball Association has learnt of the passing of Mrs Sonja Lewis, who has been a stalwart in the game of Netball here in St.Vincent and The Grenadines and throughout the region.

Mrs Lewis served as Secretary of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association for many years, and also as an Sonja Lewis Umpire and Coach, as well as Manager of various national teams which participated in regional Netball Tournaments.

She also served with distinction as Secretary of the Caribbean Netball Association on numerous occasions.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association uses this opportunity to convey condolences to her husband, her children, and her surviving relatives.

May Almighty God grant her eternal rest.

Doris Mc Intosh President St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association

V

24. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Walvaroo 1 champs Sion Hill InterVillage Football WALVAROO 1 are champions of the Sion Hill Inter-Village Football. They claimed the title and bragging rights when they disposed of fellow villagers Walvaroo 2, two goals to one in the championship finals played at the Sion Hill Playing Field last Sunday.

A goal each by Albert Samuel, Enrique Millington the championship’s chief and Jason Richards sealed the win for organiser, Walvaroo 1, while hopes that the Junior McKie scored Inter-Village the goal for championship would serve as Walvaroo 2.

Other teams a feeder system for the Sion Hill competing were Roseau 1, Roseau 2, community Mala Village, and teams.

Sion Hill Masters.

Albert ‘Mutt’ Samuel, the chief organizer of the Championship, expressed satisfaction that the tournament was complete, and in the same breath, expressed

disappointment with the late start to Sunday’s game.

“Both teams are from the same village, Walvaroo, which is less than five minutes from the Sion Hill playing field. Unless the players’ attitude improves, and contemplating on whether I will be part of the organizing body in the future,” Samuel Walvaroo 1– winners of the 2018 Sion Hill Inter-Village Football said after Sunday’s activity.

Championship.

“My main focus was to get the footballers in the area to do something positive and get the people involved in more positive activities,” Samuel said, adding, “Even though the Sion Hill football team has already been selected, having a tournament like this will also serve as a feeder system and to keep the players together.”

The tournament also serves as an opportunity to expose the younger players in the area with a requirement that each competing team includes at least two players under the age of 16 years.

Samuel appealed to the mature players to lead in more positive ways so the youths can follow and together with them, continue to build the community of Sion Hill.

Walvaroo 2 – runner-ups to their fellow villagers.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Zefal Bailey: Fastest in Cycling UnionÊs Time Trial ZEFAL BAILEY won last Sunday’s Time Trial, staged by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union,

from Arnos Vale to Belvedere.

It was ‘easy as Sunday morning’ for Bailey, the number one cyclist in St

Ballantyne elected as TASVG Coaches Rep PAMENOS BALLANTYNE, Physical Education Instructor/Coach at the St. Martin’s Secondary School and coach of the Chatoyer Track and Field Club, will represent Coaches on the Executive of Team Athletics SVG. The former national and OECS top middle and long distance runner and Olympian was unanimously elected as the Coaches Pamenous Ballantyne representatives by the will be the voice on newly established behalf of track and field Coaches Commission, coaches at the during a recent meeting Executive level of of that Commission.

TASCV. Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN since his election, process.

Ballantyne said he was grateful for the opportunity to further assist the I.B.A.ALLEN

development of the sport, this time in an administrative capacity.

He cited as an immediate task that of “establishing regular meeting for coaches so that they can make recommendations which I will take to the TASVG.” Ballantyne is also committed to ensuring “more clarity, transparency, and fairness” as it relates to selection of teams to represent the country, and he anticipates that coaches could help draw up a list of criteria to guide the selection

Vincent and the Grenadines , as he won in10 minutes 28.08 seconds.

Behind Bailey was Samuel Lyttle, who clocked 11 minutes 41.40 seconds.

Placing third overall and first in the Masters’ segment was Peter Durrant, in 12 minutes 32.61 seconds.

Meanwhile, Albert Quammie clocked the fourth fastest time - 12 minutes 58 seconds - to be third in the Elite Category, behind Bailey and Lyttle.

Zefal Bailey Desmond Cox, who took the fifth spot overall, was second in the Masters’ Category, in a time of 13 minutes 08.07 seconds.

Trailing Cox in sixth place and third in the Masters was Martin Bollers, who completed the course in 13 minutes 28.27 seconds.

Also completing the Time Trial were Leroy Constantine (seventh), Marlon Antrobus (eighth) and Lucky Antrobus (ninth).

Constantine contested the Masters Category, and the Antrobus brothers

Desmond Cox returned to competitive Cycling last Sunday, after a long layoff, following an accident.

in the Elite Category.

The next event on the cycling calendar is the National Championships, which take place 24th June.

Elite cyclists will be looking to make a mark on the National Championships to catch the selectors’ eyes, ahead of the OECS Championships in Dominica next month.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 25.

Sports

A CRICKET FEATURE: Sri LankaÊs fourth visit the region in one season. The second of the two tests was played WITH THE EXCEPTION of Zimbabwe, at Arnos Vale Playing Field, St. only Sri Lanka of all the other eight Vincent. It was the first test to be ranked test nations have not won a played in the Windward Islands. test series in the West Indies.

The first test was staged at The first to win in the region Antigua Recreation Ground was Australia way back in 1955.

(ARG). Antigua was the fifth It was their inaugural tour of the country in the region to host a Caribbean. Included in the West test (1981). England were the Indies line-up were Everton visitors. St. Vincent became the Weekes, Clyde Walcott and Frank sixth country to do so.

Worrell. Among them were the Sri Lanka’s next visit was in spin-twin of Sonny Ramachin and 2003, for the same number of Alfred Valentine. Also present matches. The outcome of the was the youthful (Sir) Garfield series was similar to the first.

Sobers.

West Indies won one, the other England, the architect of the drawn. game, had five attempts before success eventually came in 1960.

Day Night Test Since then, India (1971), South Africa (2001), New Zealand Five years later, the same (2002), Bangladesh (2009) and number of games but the score Pakistan (2017) have had their line changed. Sri Lanka - one and moments of glory in the West Indies — one. Now ten years ‘Caribbean sun’. later, in 2018, they are back to contest three tests for the first Historic visit time in the West Indies, with the third being the first ever daySo, what does Sri Lanka have night test in the West Indies, at to offer on their fourth visit to this Kensington Oval, Barbados. region?

In 1930, Kensington Oval In 1997, the Asians followed staged the first-ever test in the their neighbours - India to the region, now, this iconic ground is Caribbean to contest two test on the verge of history again. matches. On two counts, it was an A point of interest, the historic visit. Firstly, it was the scheduled first day of this test, first time two test teams visited June 23, will be exactly 90 years

by EARL ROBINSON

The full cup

THIS THE MOMENT you were waiting for. The Football World Cup is in gear. One can’t rule out surprises. That’s the nature of the game. The ball is round and can end up in any corner. There are certain trends, norms and expectations. But matters can change in a wink and the tide reversed.

Organised crime syndicates have taken their profession to unimaginable depths. Sport lovers might be left wondering as to the sincerity of an event.

The days of principled action seem to have disappeared. Former sporting icons throughout the region have ended their lives in dismal situations. They brought glory and pride to fans and supporters. But they never profited financial wise. Many passed their twilight years in subsistence existence.

That’s the echo of Caribbean sport men and women today. That is why they are plying their trade anywhere it is needed.

Club Football, Netball, Basketball, Swimming, Cricket, Boxing are areas in which the sporting industry is real.

We in the Caribbean latch on to the trend.

Even if it takes time to find the grove, in instances, we were ahead of the game or when we get the hang of it, adopt the extremes never imagined.

A glance at sporting history will bring home the sacrifice that sportsmen and women made to represent their sphere over time.

When the playing days are over, the evidence is visible. Examples of sporting heroes straggling around eking out an existence are common.

There have been measures to bring the sports into the social fabric. Ambassadors are announced time to time.

Attention of a concerted kind must be given to those who have laboured in the sporting vineyard and have financial strains.

Sporting organisations have to consider their heroes of the past.

When one looks around St. Vincent and the Grenadines, there are sports men and women in the category of not necessarily indigent. In relation to the value, they have added to the national landscape, they ought not to be living their life smeared with ingratitude.

At the least, shelter, care and protection must be provided.

With the Fifa World Cup in swing, it should be a matter of courtesy that former players have the opportunity of following the matches on television. For some persons, such prospects are farfetched owing to circumstances.

The world seems to have a plain of apathy.

Globalisation has so captured the circle that no one worries about who suffers. In fact, it seems more acceptable when the suffering is dished out.

And in recent times, we have come to see that unfold before our eyes.

It might be an individual matter with regard to elder sports men and women. With the World Cup on, it is a matter of course. They have made all the arrangements.

There are others whose condition has deteriorated.

In the absence of family, community, or patriotic considerations, our society has a duty to our elder sporting personalities.

since a West Indies test team took to the field at Lord’s in 1928. It was also a Saturday.

Against that backdrop and the very historic significance of the match, the question abounds: Could these two teams pay for the cost of the electricity? Currently, Sri Lanka is number six in the ICC test rankings and the host at number nine, with 67 points.

Smith recalled After his grand performance in the PCL 2017-18, are we going to see Devon Smith in West Indies colours after an absence of three years?

His record-breaking performances have left the selectors stunned. An aggregate of 1095 runs and an average of 84.23 with six centuries have allowed him entry into the thirteen selected for the three tests.

If given the opportunity to play, will he fall short of runs like Easton McMorris?

After 38 tests, Smith averages 24.50 with only one century. His test career began in 2003.

For the past 30 years (19882018) we have been rallying ‘round the West Indies’. Ask David Rudder!

Flow Radcliffe stops Police Two FLOW RADCLIFFE put a stop to a rampaging Police Two when they beat them in a cliffhanger, in one of last weekend matches in the Neil Williams T20 National Cricket Competition.

On the back of 64 from Richie Richards, Flow Radcliffe were bowled

Othneil Lewis, off spinner, was instrumental in Flow Radcliffe’s victories on the weekend.

out for 148 in 18 overs, Damson Andrews taking 3 for 24. Police Two would have thought the target gettable, but found Othneil Lewis, 3 for 14, too much to go with and closed precariously close to victory on 143.

That was Flow Radcliffe’s second victory on the weekend. The previous day, Saturday, they recorded a 21-run victory over Providence Electronic Solutions (PES) North Leeward by 21 runs.

FLOW Radcliffe made 129 off 20 overs, Romano Pierre top scoring with 50, to which PES North Leeward replied with 108 in 19 0vers. As he would be the next day, Lewis was among the wickets taking 3 for 8.

Donald Delpesche helped PES to overcome that defeat to humble Strike Eagles, when he led with both bat and ball. Scores: PES North Leeward 177 in 19 overs - Donald Delpesche 44, Javid Wilson 4 for 41; Strike Eagles 51 to 11 overs. - Delpesche 5 for

20.

In other matches:

Butler 30 not out, Deswayne Williams 4 for 22; Victors Two 117 for 4 from 20 overs - Shamic Roberts 33, Butler 2 for 27.Deswayne Williams 29 and Denis Byam 26.

Strike Eagles suffered another humiliating defeat, this time at the hands of Keegan’s Bequia X1, with I.B.A.ALLEN Giovadeen Browne turning in an outstanding allround performance for Bequia.

Scores: Keegan’s Bequia X1 173 off 20 overs - Giovadeen Browne 63, Julius Shortte 3 for 11; Strike Eagles 63 of 14.2 overs Browne 5 for 17.

Victors One, with three batsmen getting half centuries, beat Triumph’s United by 97 runs. Scores: Victors One 247 for 6 off 20 overs - Christroy John hit 65, Atticus Browne 56, Tilron Harry 53 not out; Triumph’s United 150 for 6 off 20 overs.

Rangel Small 56, Kieron Cottoy 2 for 24.

Team Rivals had a hard-fought 4-run victory over Victors Two. Scores: Team Rivals 121 from 20 overs, Deighton

26. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 08, 2018. 27.

Classifieds

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JOYCE ROBECEA MC COUL

New Life Ministries North Union Saturday, June 02, 2018 2:00 p.m.

Officiating Minister Pastor Frederick Browne

Glen Christian Church Sunday, June 03, 2018 2:00 p.m.

Interment Goldenvale Cemetery Calliaqua

LEEOL HOWELL Wednesday May 30th 2018 Nazareen Church Arnos Vale Viewing 1:00 p.m.

Service 2:00 p.m.

Interment Fountain Cemetery

HAMILTON A. SHORTT LATIFEH MOUSSA 10th June 192328th May 2018 Cathedral of the Assumption Wednesday 30th May, 2018 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 03, 2018 Viewing: 2:00 pm Service: 3:00 pm Church of God Seventh Day Richland Park Interment Richland Park Cemetery

RUBY YOUNG St. James Anglican Church On Saturday 2nd June 2018 3:00 p.m.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R

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SHARPES MAN FIGHTING FOR HIS LIFE

Kenette ‘Jessie’ Bess was said to be making a success of his I’tal Food business following a term of imprisonment.

by KENVILLE HORNE A YOUNG MAN is fighting for his life in the Intensive Unit at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, after being shot ten (10) times about his body.

The man, 26-year-old Kenette ‘Jessie’ Bess, was shot while at his

business place (I’tal Shop) in Redemption Sharpes, on Tuesday 29th May around 2:00 pm.

According to reports, two men came to Bess’ shop and ordered food. As Bess turned to attend to the men’s order, they (them ) let loose a barrage of bullets in the

direction of Bess, hitting him several times, and then fled the scene.

Most people in the community were tight-lipped about the situation, but described the victim as a humble youth, who was trying to turn his life around after being released from prison about a year ago, following a gun-related matter.

“Jessie a humble youth.. all the man a do is sell his ital. Most time he dey by his I’tal shop .. or if things slow in the afternoon he go home and come back later. The man have a daughter to live for all thing,” one resident told THE VINCENTIAN. The resident went on to express his frustration with the crime situation as it exists currently in the country, and the justice system’s “inability” to send a strong message to the criminals.

“People worry because the criminals keep getting away and that a mek them get braver,” said the frustrated man.

“The police come put up yellow tape, Kenette Bess’ business place in Redemption Sharpes, in which he was shot.

take pictures and say them a investigate, but after that you don’t really hear anything,” the resident added.

Similar sentiments were expressed by a relative of the victim, who did not want to be identified. The relative said that since the shooting incident, they heard from the police once and have since received no information from them.

They — relatives - however, expressed hope that the young man “would pull through”.

According to a relative who had visited Bess at the Hospital, Bess sustained damage to his lungs and intestines, and had to undergo major surgery.

That relative was confident that the injured man would survive since he “.. did a open heart surgery in de past and he survive,… he strong so by the grace of God he go pull through”.

Meanwhile the police have confirmed the shooting as one involving two men who attacked Bess, “with the intent to commit the offence of murder… by shooting him about his body with a gun.”

Model student found hanging young man’s death remain unclear.

And mother of the decease declined POLICE HAVE confirmed that the to comment on the matter when she results of the post mortem to was visited by THE VINCENTIAN ascertain the cause of death of Darren newspaper.

Andrews, indicate that the 20-year-old Andrews attended the St Vincent former resident of Glenside, Grammar School graduating in 2014, Mesopotamia, died by hanging. after which he attended and also His body was discovered at the graduated from the St Vincent and residence of his mother, Emril the Grenadines Community College Weekes, on Tuesday morning, Division of Arts and Sciences. sometime around 7:30 police have A former teacher described the indicated. young man as a model student, Circumstances surrounding the disciplined and is said to have

by DAYLE DASILVA

performed well academically.

During his time at school, Andrews was a member of the 2012 SVGS Young Leaders group that won the local leg of the competition that year.

“His sudden death came as a shock to many who knew him,” his former teacher said, adding, “Members of his family are in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. I pray that God will grant them the strength that is needed to cope at this time.”

Darren Andrews’ death has left his community stunned.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.