FRIDAY, JUNE
11, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.23
Fishermen still missing Page 3
www.thevincentian.com
GHS shelter closed Page 5
EC$1.50
Take the vaccine Page 7
SVG ‘jamming’ CXC Page 11
Police dropped the ball Page 24
‘PARCH NUTS’ SILENCED company of a young lady. The neighbour said it could A YOUNG MAN who made have been that the gunmen national headlines after being hid in some bushes and badly beaten by police when he awaited Jackson on his return. was just a teenager was shot “Me na see when dem come and killed on Friday 4th June, but after me hear the sometime after 8pm. gunshots me see the two man Jemark ‘Parch Nuts’ in hoodie walking calmly away Jackson, 29, was shot dead from the scene,” said the while on his way to his home neighbour. in Coconut Range, Campden An elderly lady who lives a Park. few meters from where His body was discovered a Jackson died said she was short distance from his home. watching TV when the Persons in the community incident took place, but she recalled hearing about 5 to 6 did not know it was Jackson. gunshots and seeing two men “Whenever he pass he does in “hoodies” leaving the scene. shout and call me. The same One of Jackson’s neighbours day he dead he bring some told THE VINCENTIAN that bushes for me to deal with the a few hours before Jackson mosquitoes and I use to was killed, he was seen always tell him to behave leaving his home in the himself. He was nice to me,” by KENVILLE HORNE
said the elderly lady.
No spring chicken Jackson had his fair share of run-ins with the law. He catapulted to national headlines in 2008 after three police officers were charged with beating him into a coma that lasted for seven days. The officers - Constables Osrick James and Hadley Ballantyne, and Corporal Kasankie Quow - were found guilty and fined EC$1,500 each, in 2010. They appealed their convictions to the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal which, in 2011, dismissed the appeals and upheld their convictions. Against much public
condemnation of the Officers’ crimes, the then Commissioner of Police Keith Miller reinstated the officers to their substantive positions. Since the matter of assault by the police officers, Jackson was arrested for a number of burglaries, handling stolen goods and theft. For example, he was a suspect in a recent burglary at Eastern Caribbean Bottlers Inc. in Campden Park. And on the August 10th, 2020, Jackson, Quincy Boyde, 26-year-old labourer of Rillan Hill and Romano Andrews, 29year-old labourer of Clare Valley/Diamond were arrested and charged with the offences of damage to property, attempted burglary, burglary and handling stolen goods, acts committed August 8th, 2020 at Triple S Supermarket and 2-Go Restaurant, Peruvian Vale. Jackson was, up to the time of his death, a key witness in a case in which Glenville Harry of Left: Police prepare to move towards where Jackson’s body lay.
Jemark ‘Parch Nuts’ Jackson moved from being a victim of abuse at the hands of the police, to be a constant feature on the police crime radar. Vermont, and Jerome Ollivierre and Ulric Hanson of Mayreau, are to be tried for murder in connection with the death of Rodney George, a 50year-old security guard of Victoria Village, who died in September, 2018 after being stabbed at his work place in Arnos Vale. When a Court employee was questioned about how Jackson’s death might affect this matter, the person said that it should not since his evidence was already given at a preliminary inquiry. Jackson’s death is listed as the 18th homicide in St. Vincent and the Grenadines this year. Police investigations into Jackson’s death are ongoing.
V Sagicor recognizes and celebrates its team 2. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Business
Carra Cadette (St. Lucia) Spirit Employee of the Year
Deborah Raoul (St. Lucia) Manager of the Year
Francia Parris Contributor of the Year St Lucia
Jescintta Canoville (Antigua) Contributor of the Year
Terence Moore (Antigua) Leading Advisor the Year
Eural Baptiste (Antigua) Leading Advisor of the Year Lowest Loss Ratio
Sherlon Leon Manager of the Year St Lucia
Stanley Browne Principal Representative and Agency Manager SVG - Unit-Agency of the Year (Belize & the EC)
ShamekaCasimir-David Antigua - Leading Advisor of the Year
Winne Thomas Spirit Employee of the Year Antigua
(EDITOR’S NOTE: Those pictured are the awardees from Sagicor Life Eastern Caribbean Inc.) Having successfully navigated the most challenging year in the company’s 180-year history, Sagicor has made it clear that the reason that the company was able to record a triumphant 2020, was due to the stellar work of its hardworking and dedicated team. The company recently showed its appreciation for the outstanding performances of the hundreds of men and women that make up the team across the Caribbean, during its virtual annual awards ceremony for the year 2020, which was held under the theme “Celebrating your MVPs”, on May 19, 2021. In his address to the over the 1000 team members who logged in for the virtual celebration, President and CEO of Sagicor Life Inc, Mr. Robert Trestrail, said “Tonight we celebrate your role in helping us to navigate and to come out on top of one of the most difficult times and one of most unprecedented times of all times. We demonstrated to the Caribbean, the industry and I would argue to the
world, that team Sagicor has what it takes to win. Not just win once, but win every single time, no matter the challenge.” He stated that without question, the company’s remarkable achievements in 2020 were as a result of the team’s commitment, loyalty and love for Sagicor. “We did not retreat; we regrouped. The Sagicor team that met the needs of our customers, faster and better, while turning work from home on its head, is not the same team that started the year in January of 2020. By far we are more resilient, more creative, more innovative and willing to accept and overcome any challenge thrown our way.” The second such virtual ceremony to be held since the onset of COVID-19, brought together employees from across its operations in the Southern, Eastern and Northern Caribbean, in addition to the USA, who all joined online to cheer on their colleagues who had been nominated for a number of prestigious awards, including Group Contributor of the Year, Group Sagicor Spirit Employee of the Year and Group Sagicor Spirit Manager of the Year. After much anticipation and excitement which had been built up in
the weeks and days leading up to the ceremony, the deserving winners were finally announced. Of the most coveted awards up for grabs, the Sagicor Spirit Employee of the Year award went to Kirk Shaw, Assistant Management — Facilities & Records Management, Sagicor Jamaica; while Paula Walcott, Assistant Vice President — Human Resources with Sagicor General Insurance Inc and Adrian Gittens, Mortgage Officer — Sagicor Asset Management Inc in Barbados, took home the Group Manager and Group Contributor of the year awards respectively. Award Winners from Sagicor Life Eastern Caribbean (Inc) included Sherlon Leon from St Lucia, who was awarded Manager of the Year, Winnie Thomas from Antigua who was adjudged Sagicor Spirit Employee of the Year and Francia Parris from St Lucia who was Contributor of the Year. Shameka Casimir-David from Antigua won the coveted President’s Trophy as the leading Advisor of the Year.
Stanley Browne who leads the Agency in St Vincent and the Grenadines, gave that team something to shout about as they won Unit/Agency of the year amongst the EC and Belize. With regard to awards to the Sagicor General staff winners included Deborah Raoul from St Lucia who took Manager of the Year and Terrence Moore who was named Advisor of the Year for a record number of Renewals and Eural Baptiste who was Advisor of the Year for Lowest Loss Ratio. Both Moore and Baptiste brought it home for the Antigua Sagicor General team. Carra Cadette of St Lucia was SGI’s Sagicor Spirit Employee of the Year and Jescintta Canoville from Antigua was awarded Contributor of the Year. (Contributed by Sagicor)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 3.
News 3 Fishermen still missing
The typical fishing boat that is used by the majority of fishermen in SVG including the three men who are still missing since June 1. AS OF THURSDAY, 10th missing at sea. June, three fishermen from The three — Lennox Rose Place were still ‘Grand Charge’ Phillips,
Angus ‘Pharaoh’ Webb and Bernard ‘Butters’ Dublin - were reported missing since Tuesday 1st June. They had left at 6:00am that morning on a routine fishing trip in a 27-foot pirogue — ‘Odyssier’ The men, who would usually return at around 6:00pm on a normal fishing day, did not return at that time on that Tuesday, and a missing persons’ report was made that evening. Searches, mounted by the SVG Coast Guard, local fishermen with the assistance of the Regional Security Services, Coast Guard units from Grenada, St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago and Martinique, with Martinique offering aerial services, were all in vain. In a press release that followed, the SVG Coast Guard said the missing vessel with the three men was last seen on the northeast coast of SVG by another fishing vessel, at around 10:00 am on the said Tuesday.
This north east positioning is in keeping with the usual course fishermen here use. Since the sighting on Tuesday 1st June, there have been no other sightings to date (Thursday) the Coast Guard confirmed. Notwithstanding the progress of time without ‘any good news’, residents, loved ones and the fishing communities are keeping their fingers crossed. According to SVG TV, when they visited the Rose Place community Thursday, Dublin’s wife said that her husband’s birthday was on the Tuesday, the said day he and his colleagues had left for sea. She was, as expected, finding it difficult to come to grips with not hearing from her husband, SVG TV reported. Meanwhile, Winsbert Harry, President of the National Fisherfolk Organisation, in weighing in on the ordeal, told local media
CWSA expanding storage PUSHED, PERHAPS, by the challenges it faced during the severe drought of 2020, the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) is moving to increase its storage capacity at various sites across the country. Garth Saunders, Chief Executive Officer at the CWSA, said at a press briefing on June 2 that following the severe drought
which occurred in 2020, and with assistance provided by the Water Resource Department, they have been able to use data collected on various water sources to design and construct water intake facilities. “In less than a year, we have embarked on three significant water projects aimed at alleviating the problems that we
Restoration work at Hermitage readying for linkage with the Layou warter system.
faced last year,” Saunders said. One such being a water intake facility that he said was currently under construction in the Vermont area of Francois, on the Leeward side of the island. “That project is in progress and is expected to supplement the Dallaway system — which is our main water supply,” Saunders explained. He said that they were also in the process of linking the Hermitage water supply system, located in the North Leeward area, to the supply system in Layou, South Leeward. This, Saunders said, will improve flexibility for the Layou and South Leeward areas because the Hermitage water supply has an overcapacity. “So by linking that water supply system with the Layou water supply, this gives Layou the option for water supply when there is a fall off, or when there is a problem with that system,” Saunders said. Work has also started on a new storage tank at Kelbourney which is expected to enhance the Majorca system by increasing the water storage on that system, the CWSA CEO said. (DD)
personnel that this highlights once again, the question of safety at sea, especially for fishermen whose operations expose them to danger on a daily basis. Harry also confirmed, based on information he had received, that it was more than likely that the three fishermen had gone to the northern side of the island to fish. Tales of men missing at sea are not new to the Rose Place area including one of those missing. THE VINCENTIAN understands that Angus Webb had had a previous experience of being missing at sea. He was rescued by a search party after going missing last
year. Mark Dennis, Amron Thomas Simonette, and Walter Lynch returned home from Puerto Rico to a hero’s welcome, June 9, 2010. They had gone fishing on Fisherman’s Day (May 24), encountered problems and drifted for eleven days before being rescued and taken to Puerto Rico. Residents also speak about a man who survived a 45-day ordeal and found his way to Jamaica, after his rescue. His welcome home was also an occasion of a joyful reunion, which the Rose Hall community hopes it can reproduce for the three who are currently missing.
More medicinal cannabis products on the market ANOTHER MEDICINAL CANNABIS related enterprise here has received Government’s recognition of its products. The Minister of Agriculture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Saboto Caesar, recently commended locally owned and operated company “Medicinal”, on their recent launch of an extensive line of locally produced medicinal cannabis products. The products include but are not restricted to lotions, gummies (both CBD and THC), tinctures and THC ape cartridges. The launch of the “Medicinal’ product lines follows on the December 2020 launch of a similar line of products by another locally registered company- Green Lava. In fact, Green Lava opened a local pharmacy on Bentick Square ion December 23 last year. These two developments follow on what the Agriculture Minister described as Government “hope and intention” to see SVG develop into a “a destination of a well- planned, structured, and conceived local nutraceutical industry. As expected cultivation of cannabis for use in the medicinal cannabis industry has been affected by the ash fall occasioned by the explosive eruptions of the La Soufrière volcano. A vigorous cleaning and replanting operation is planned.
V Vincy centenarian turns 101 4. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONENT SURROUNDED by family, close friends and other well-wishers, Vincentian centenarian Emmeline Nash Barbour on May 31 celebrated her 101st birthday with a bash at her home in Jamaica, Queens, New York. “I feel very good, wonderful to be celebrating my birthday with my family,” Nash Barbour told THE
VINCENTIAN afterwards. “I didn’t expect I would reach there (101st birthday), but I thank God I reach there.” But, in the same breadth, she said she’s looking forward to her 120th birthday. Nash Barbour — who migrated to New York in 1986, from Spring Village in North Leeward — based her longevity on being “grateful to people and God. “I pray every morning and every night to God to make me a good person, and I ask God to live good with my children,” said Nash Barbour, who lives with her last daughter and sole caretaker, Jana Williams. Nash Barbour’s husband, Thomas Ezekiel Barbour, formerly from Barrouallie in Central Leeward, died on Sept. 24 last year, in Jamaica, Queens. He was 93. “My eating and my health are perfect,” Barbour said. “My memory is good; everything is good.”
Barbour, who was born on May 31, 1920, previously worshipped at Vision Pentecostal Church on Tilden Avenue in Brooklyn. Williams said her mom enjoys the simple things in life. “She loves to pop the bubble rapper and often refers to it as her company, when she is watching TV,” said Williams, adding that her mother’s favorite color is red; her favorite game shows are Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy and Family Feud; and her favorite soap opera is General Hospital. “She also loves to tell stories of her life growing up, and all her generations enjoy listening to her,” she continued. “She is of sound mind, fully aware of what’s going on around her. Her children and grand-children, relatives and friends join to wish her a happy 101st birthday.” Williams said Barbour gave birth to 11 children — three deceased — and currently has over 100 grand, great and great, great-grand-children. “She lives to see her fourth generation,” Williams said. Barbour’s grand-daughter, Curlina Edwards-Hills, a prominent Vincentian community activist and lawyer in New York, said she was “very grateful to God for His blessings”
Emmeline Nash Barbour – 101 years and looking to many more. on her grand-mother. “We love her very much and look forward to spending many, many more birthdays,” Edwards-Hills told THE VINCENTIAN. “She’s really the anchor that holds our family together. She’s well respected and loved; so, everyone listens to her.”
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 5.
Soufriere
The Girls’ High School accommodated well over 100 evacuees.
GHS no longer an Emergency Shelter Girls’ High School Headmistress- Mrs. Michelle Beache, is working to ensure a “deep cleaning” of the school before it returns to its usual use.
housed at the GHS and were not cleared to return home, were resettled at the Doris Mc Kie Learning Centre, Cane Hall. This, confirmed by Headmistress of the GHS - Mrs. Michelle Beache. During the Wednesday 9th June edition of NBC’s Eyeing La Soufriere programme, Acting Prime Minister and parliamentary representative of by GLORIAH… North Windward, Montgomery Daniel, in answer to a caller’s query about AS OF TUESDAY, 8th why persons who were assumed to be June, the Girls’ High living in the Red Zone were returned, School (GHS), situated said, “The demarcation established by on Murray’s Road, ceased to be an the mapping of NEMO has indicated Emergency Shelter for persons displaced that up to Caratal can be considered as a result of the eruption of the La in the Orange Zone. When the Soufriere volcano. decision was made to have persons The 140 odd evacuees who were going back to the Orange Zone it was sheltered there hailed primarily from up to Caratal.” the Georgetown area, designated to be Once the movement of evacuees within the Orange Zone. from the GHS was complete, attention When the all-clear was given for turned to readying the compound for persons from the Orange Zone to resumption of classes. return to their homes, many persons Drapes were removed from windows took the opportunity to do so. and an initial cleaning undertaken. Included among these (persons) was Yet to be undertaken, according to the majority of evacuees at the Girls Mrs. Beache, would be a full powerHigh School whose resettlement was washing and sanitization of the assisted by the National Emergency compound to achieve what the she Management Organisation (NEMO). called, “a deep cleaning of the entire Evacuees from Sandy Bay and school.” Overland — Red Zone — who had been
Relocation: An option
IT IS MORE than likely, according to what can be deduced from statements by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves that there will be number of families who will have to be relocated, especially those who resided in the Red Zone, particularly Sandy Bay. Much of the housing stock in Sandy Bat was damaged by ash flow, lahars and other floods, the effect of Damage to the housing stock especially in Sandy Bay, was extensive. the eruption of the La Soufriere volcano. those lands to be identified could well And while the Prime Minister said be in the north, north eastern part of recently on radio that the damage mainland St. Vincent. assessment was still in its early Should this be the case, the Prime stages which point to some 180 Minister promised that that it will household as being in need of have to be in keeping with safety assistance, he affirmed that the measures and be informed by advice government has already moved to of the La Soufriere Monitoring Team identify lands to be used to relocate of scientists, to wit, that residents residents from the Red Zone. should not be allowed to build houses Interestingly, it could well be, the in river valleys moving forward. Prime Minister said, that some of
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6. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 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
Attending to the displaced NOT FOR THE FIRST TIME (re. 1979), this country experienced a mass exodus/evacuation of persons from the North Eastern and Western corridors of mainland St. Vincent, occasioned by the eruption of La Soufriere, April, 2021. Figures ranged from 16,000 to 20,000 to give numerical account of this exodus. As wild as these ‘ranges’ are, some say they will serve the country in ‘good’ stead when the time comes to solicit assistance for recovery and reconstruction. As it stands, this country is well into the second month of responding to an emergency. Residents of the North Leeward and North Windward areas have been displaced from their usual places of abode and means of livelihood for the better part of two months. And while some of those displaced have been able to make their way back home — moreso those who were evacuated from North Leeward, observers say it is going to be an undeterminable period of time before persons from north of the Rabacca River can return home since, for the majority, there is nothing to which to return. It goes without question that these displaced persons would have been exposed to numerous challenges, not least being a struggle to maintain their self-worth and dignity throughout this ongoing period of uncertainty. We owe it to them to attend to their needs as we move towards recovery and reconstruction. That is why we anticipate that an already overdue plan to cater to these persons will be rolled out soon. Whether that plan speaks to an actual return to places of abode that are still under ash, extensively damaged some beyond repair and under threat of implosion, or whether it speaks to a relocation of some if not most persons, one thing is certain: providing assistance, protecting and finding solutions for these displaced persons is the responsibility of the Government. A far as the most urgent need, i.e. housing, is concerned, we refer the government to Principles on Housing
and Property Restitution for Refugees and Displaced Persons by the UN Sub-Commission on the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights (August 2005), which commits UN members like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to restoring to displaced persons “any housing, land and/or property of which they were deprived, or to compensate them for any housing, land and/or property that is independently assessed as being impossible to be restored”. In fulfilling this responsibility, government must be mindful that whether it rebuilds or relocates, it is duty bound to provide a safe and secure environment for those who have suffered under the strain of being removed from their usual surroundings. It must see to designing and executing, without bias or favour, relief and development programmes that are in keeping with internationally accepted protocols, humanitarian principles and standards. Government must be cognizant and act accordingly so as to ensure that special consideration is given to children, women, persons with disabilities, etc. in the provision of public services, including access to health and education services. And lest it should need reminding, government should accept that this is as good an opportunity as any to foster community dialogue and reconciliation at the political levels and inter-communal levels. All of this and more can be achieved through monitored coordination within government institutions, departments, agencies at all levels, and through collaboration with humanitarian, civil, and development partners here in SVG, the region and further afield. Admittedly, the road to recovery and reconstruction is not an unencumbered one. The challenges are not like anything we have encountered before. One thing we must respect is that the right to aid/compensation should not be differentiated between those who actually return and those who do not, since once displaced, persons are entitled to housing, land and property restitution.
East Indians as West Indians (Continued from last week) (First published in THE VINCENTIAN OF June 02, 2017.) WITH TWO OUT OF EIGHT elected seats in 1951, that is 25%, the Indians were off to a good start, given the primacy of politics in colonial territories. Over the years, however, there was a falling off with persons like Herbie Young, Herman’s son, becoming a Minister of Government for ten years and Ambassador to the U.N in the mid1990s. It was noted that the Indians never voted “Race Apanjat” as they did in Guyana and Trinidad. In fact it was surely a good sign to observe that pockets of Indian voters in Richland Park and Calder in the early 1990s voting for Labour’s candidate, Vincent Beache whom they garlanded during the campaign at the expense of one of their own, St. Clair Thomas, a Medical doctor who sprang from the grassroots! The flip side of that coin painted a somewhat different picture. Once the lawyers’ team engaged Dr. Thomas’ “Injectors” in a cricket match at Biabou. I was enjoying myself tremendously when Bassy Alexander, one of our “professionals”, came up to me and served a classic: “Skip, I thought you told me we were playing “Injectors”, but is ‘Bangladesh’. we playing.” When I checked the opposing team, there were 10 Indians and a single Black, Frank George, who was married to an Indian. I believe that the whole scenario was accidental. Surely, the Injectors were not injecting Race, but it was a warning as to how minority groups must be on their “P’s” and Q’s” when having functions. I think that perceptions of “clannishness” proved the undoing of the first attempt at Indian Solidarity under Dr. Gideon Cordice and Lloyd Bacchus. Poor small countries are especially sensitive to their maintenance of a homogenous society. I recall a man of principle, Renwick Rose, who once led BLAC —Black Liberation Action Committee- referring to Cyp Neehall and Lennox Bowman when they
headed the Carnival Development Corporation as Mustapha and Mohammed! Truly there have been great Indians who helped to build this Nation. The list represents a mere sample and is by no means exhaustive. The Crichtons in bus transportation produced a Methodist Minister and a pharmacist turned local politician in Horace Crichton. Gideon Cordice a natural if not a national hero, together with Edson Bowman went on to form the S.N.M. The top echelon of the public services featured Hugh Bowman and the brothers Pat and Leon Huggins at Permanent Secretary level. In agriculture there have been the Deanes, Sutherlands, and Bullocks who spread their wholesome effect far and wide. The rising business community have been blessed with Ricky Hillocks, Dennis Da Silva, the Jacks and Denzil Bacchus a Jeweller whose brightest gem is his commitment to jazz, Black music! Ranny Russell did his share both in politics and business. Two of three national newspapers, the Vincentian and The News have Indian editors, Cyp Neehall and Shelly Clarke respectively. Happily, the new thrust is led by persons of a modern outlook and hands-on experience such as the two Junior Bacchus’ and Arnold Thomas of intellectual depth, who will ensure that the foundation does not degenerate into narrow, selfish perspectives despite the temptations to identify with India which was formally born in 1947, and today is rated among the super-powers of the world. In any event, the litmus test shows that many Indians in leadership roles marry outside their race, and it is significant that current President of the organisation Junior Bacchus is of mixed descent, like Trinidad Calypsonian, Dougla, who in a similar context says that they might have to split him in Two!
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 7.
Letters
Take the vaccine I THINK WHAT I am going to report is the lowest, the most dishonest, the most unforgiving piece of ‘advice’ that I ever heard. Not so long ago in Kingstown, I heard with my own ears, a person who said they had received their two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, telling another person not to take the vaccine. I just could not believe my ears so I stuck around a little longer only to hear the vaccinated person say something like, “If I had
only known some things I learned since, and since I heard that at least two people died after taking the vaccine, I would have stayed as far away from it as possible. Not even all the money they want to offer would change my mind”. Now, tell me if that is not a sad state of affairs? And where on earth did this person get this news about two people dying after they took the vaccine? We have to stop spreading ‘false news’. I am fully in support
of the vaccine. Why shouldn’t I be? Vaccines have protected us against a host of diseases like measles, mumps, chicken pox and polio. I can also recall getting one for typhoid fever. Vaccines provide protection before a person is exposed and they are usually tested to the max before they are administered. I have no reason to believe that this is not the case with the COVID-19 vaccines. It is a shame when those who took the
COVID-19 vaccine, discourage others from doing so. It is an even bigger shame and disgrace when so called big-shot, well-educated people also encourage this nonsense. In either case, it shows how much they care for their friends and others in general. Save a life — your own. Take the vaccine now. Valerie H. SVG
Surviving amidst the challenges WE ARE FACING challenging times with the prevailing Dengue Fever, COVID-19 and the aftermath of the eruption of La Soufriere, the mudflow, etc. We know that the Hurricane season is soon to come and let’s hope it passes us. Those aforementioned things do not discriminate. As Vincentians we must
seek to survive amidst these challenges. The COVID-19 will be with us for some time and even though the volcano quiets down, the after-effects will stay on for a while. As a result, it’s a question of surviving. This will require all hands on deck and the laying aside of party politics. The effects of the
volcanic eruptions will be felt economically, which in my mind is the biggest challenge. How can we as a nation survive amidst this challenge? It takes determination by all to make it, regardless of the situation. As a people we must bond together and exercise brotherly love as is seen by thousands living
outside this blessed nation who have bonded together in sending aid in various forms. Surviving this challenge would require faith in a great God who will never fail. As the national anthem says, “what’er our future brings our faith will see us through”. He has IT IS WELL known that we are a governments is at our hands. We can shown us His Christian nation. The founder of see that world leaders are out of faithfulness amidst the Christianity (though it’s a nickname control and many behave like difficult times. It is time given, similar to Hairoun St. Vincent drunkards. to get back to God with Another falsification in for) told his followers that many a holy living. Christendom is that the nation Israel false teacher and preacher will come As we seek to survive in His name, saying he is the Messiah is God chosen. Jacob was first called amidst the challenging Israel as an overcomer (Gen. 32:28). and shall lead many astray. (Matt. times, we have to put The true Israelites mentioned in 7:21, 24: 4-5). aside our political Ephesians 2:12, and this is speaking of When we look around the world at all Jacob’s sons and daughters differences, hatred, and the many conflicting so-called globally, are those who are born again love each other. It is not Christian churches/religions, we can see clearly that they are the fulfilment with the divine love in their hearts time to pull down and and minds for the oneness of the of the end of this wicked world’s spew out anger and creator God and humanity. system. hatred, but instead a This is a people described in the Strangely, the religious and time to heal the wounds Bible as the Commonwealth of Israel. political leaders over 2,000 years ago with love and This is a classless people who are the were the enemy of the Messiah and forgiveness. true Israelites. The nation Israel who deceived the people into setting I would encourage us are murdering the Palestine people is Barabbas free, and had the Messiah as a people to work not the chosen Israel according to killed as a political troublemaker together and most Ephesians 2. under the Roman Empire. We have a ‘world boss’ ruling over importantly put the Lord They knew very well that His us. If we don’t find love in his heart back into our homes. In gospel was in conflict with their and mind for our creator God and the doing so, I know that we religion and politics. No wonder He oneness of humanity, who knows if he would survive amidst the told them that His kingdom/government was not of their will become like this modern-day challenging times. Israel. system and time-world. God bless this nation. True Christianity is a people This generation is the generation SVG I love you. working together for the total that the world is going to see the stone development of all people concerned. mentioned in Daniel 2 fulfilled. The Kennard King end of all false religions and Christian Democrat
The religious and political leaders
On schools reopening THE MUCH-AWAITED school reopening will happen later this year, ready or not. After a year and a half away from the classroom, I can only hope that we are ready. We had a lot of time to reexamine and reinvent our education system. I can only hope we used that time away wisely. I once saw a presentation by Dr. Andrews, of the Birmingham City School of Social Science, where he was explaining the differences between education and schooling. He made a lot of sense to me. To summarize, he said that our educational system was designed to continue to make us subservient to a colonial system. This is where I make my full disclosure, I am not a historian or someone who has studied our educational systems at length. I know from my life experience, what we have been doing is not exactly working for us. In my opinion, it creates winners and losers. I continue to struggle with the concept of our Common Entrance Exams. If secondary education is mandatory why do we continue to need an entrance exam, and if it’s not mandatory why isn’t it? One of the many issues I have with our education system is standardized testing. Many people say standardized testing provides an accurate measurement of the student’s ability and teacher effectiveness. I say such a one-size-fits-all approach to assessing academic achievement is inflexible and biased. This test assumes that everyone has access to the same support structure at home, including the physical infrastructure like electricity, high-speed internet, and food security. Others argue that it promotes accountability because every summer we rank and publish the names of the students and their schools after the exams. So after the exam, we know which schools had the most students in the top twenty and who were the lowest among us. What then? What are we going to do with those schools at the bottom that did not get 50% of their students on the list? What are we going to do with those students? Are any teachers getting fired or demoted? Have we sent those teachers back to college for additional training? No. The only one being punished in the walk of shame is our kids. I hope that the Ministry of education and the Teachers Union have been working together to improve our education system, and converting the system of schooling into one of educating our children, i.e. a system to lead us into the twentyfirst century. Horatio
Thank you! DEAR MR. EDITOR: Blessed day to you. I am most pleased with the professional way you approached a recent article about the situation related to HIV-positive persons here. (See THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 21st May, 2021.) I thank you for the time and effort you have shown in support of HIV-positive persons in SVG. I must also extend special thanks and appreciation for having given this issue front page coverage. Respect, Sydney ‘Pumpkin’ Joseph Peer Animator and Treatment Advocate for HIV/AIDS
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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Have Vincentians lost confidence in the Criminal Justice System? necessary, the prosecution of the matter. If it is that the Commissioner of (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press Police and the DPP cannot do their jobs Statement) because of a conflict of interest or other reason, then they must recuse THE QUESTION underlies the concern that themselves and other persons must be is widespread in St. Vincent and the appointed to lead the investigation and Grenadines. And that is, the fear that our any prosecution that might flow from country has descended to the low and that investigation. dangerous level where the criminal justice At this point, it is necessary for the system cannot be relied upon to do the police, and the Commissioner of Police right thing; where there is little or no since he has spoken publicly on it, to let confidence in the police, including the the public know what is going on with Commissioner of Police, the Director of the investigation of the matter. This Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the system cannot be treated as a hush-hush in general to do the right thing. The right matter. What will people think? thing would be to uphold the rule of law We know what they are thinking now. and vigorously pursue justice in this and They are thinking that not enough is every matter that comes before them. being done to investigate and prosecute It may be the situation here that the the matter, and they fear that not DPP and the Commissioner of Police are enough will be done in the future as well too close to those mentioned in the to ensure Mr John gets justice, and the allegations as possible assailants, to people’s confidence in the criminal pursue the matter in a way that would justice system and the rule of law is inspire confidence in the general public maintained or restored. Given the recent that they will be able to conduct a full incidents of gun-related killings in St. impartial investigation, and prosecution Vincent and the Grenadines, most recent if it comes to that, in this case. the shooting death of former national In other words, there may be a football goalkeeper, Dwaine Sandy, the conflict of interest or the appearance of a role of the police and the DPP’s office in conflict of interest that might prevent investigation and prosecuting such them from pursuing the matter properly, incidents is critically important. and that might induce doubt and Confidence in the police and DPP are of disbelief in the public about the paramount importance. The matter performance of their duties. When such described above undermines that circumstances arise, here or elsewhere, confidence. it is necessary to install other persons who are not affected by these concerns to The Customs Service Charge Takes Effect conduct the investigation, and where Pt. 2
A public notice put out by the Customs Department a few days ago reads: “Please note that Section 3A of the Customs Duties Act has been amended to increase the Customs Service Charge from 5% to 6%. This increase becomes effective from June 1st 2021.” This is a notice to the public, a warning in essence, to bring more money with you when you come to clear goods at Customs because it will cost more to get them. The government has increased taxes on the Vincentians. This time it is in the form of an increase in the Customs Service Charge (CSC). The CSC has been increased from 5% to 6% – i.e. a 20% hike. The CSC is a tax paid on all goods imported into the country. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a small open economy. We import most of what we consume. Therefore, the CSC is included in the price of most of the things that we buy and use in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. So, its effect is very broad. Furthermore, the CSC increase will affect VAT as well. That is to say, the amount of money the government will collects on each VAT item will increase. This is because VAT is charged on the goods after the value of those goods has been raised by the higher customs service charge. By raising the CSC from 5% to 6%, the price of most goods we buy in the store or bring into the country for ourselves will go up. In fact, some prices have already gone up. People have noticed it. We will pay more for almost everything we use, including foodstuff:
e.g. cooking oil, corned beef, chicken and other meats, salt, rice, sugar, macaroni, juices, ketchup, seasonings, detergents, soap, shampoo, school supplies, clothing and shoes, and everything else that we get at the grocery stores and clothing stores. Also, hardware goods: lumber, cement, galvanize, bathroom fittings, nails, screws, paint, etc. Other household goods: pots and pans, cloth, linoleum for your floor, light bulbs, plates, spoons, and appliances such as stoves, fridges and microwave ovens will cost more. And motor vehicles of all kinds will cost more to import. The bigger the purchase, the more money the government will collect and the more you the consumer/taxpayer will notice the increase. The government expects to collect $8 million directly from the increase in the CSC. This estimate does not include the additional amounts the government will also get from VAT (i.e. after VAT is charged on goods whose value has been increased by the higher CSC). In other words, the increase is expected to earn the same amount, or more than the government earned additionally when it raised VAT from 15% to 16%, five years ago. We are the only government that is taxing its way out of a pandemic and out of a volcanic crisis. The money to be given to people for La Soufrière relief is taken back in the increase in the Customs Service Charge.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 9.
Views
Dangerous disobedience
The state and Jemark Jackson
“Disobedience is essentially a prideful power struggle against someone in authority over us. It can be a parent, a priesthood leader, a teacher, or ultimately God. A proud person hates the fact that someone is above him. He thinks this lowers his position.” - Ezra Taft Benson (1899-1994) – American government official and religious leader who served as the 15th Secretary of Agriculture.
THE STATE OF ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES irreparably damaged Jemark ‘Parch Nut’ Jackson. The streets finally took him. Last Friday, at Campden Park, an unknown assailant pumped three bullets into Jackson’s gangly frame, thus bringing to an untimely end the life of a young man who deserved a better deal in society. Blame the Police Service Commission for concluding that Jackson’s life was so expendable that the police officers, who almost murdered him when they beat him into a coma, were more critical to policing in SVG than the life of a citizen, due process and justice. Blame the Attorney General and the coterie of lawyers who work there for pussyfooting with Jemark Jackson’s civil claim, which could have brought him a settlement for the severe injuries he suffered at the hands of police officers working under the colour of law. Most of all, blame the Ralph Gonsalves led administration for condemning Jemark Jackson to a life of crime and violence. Tuesday, 18 November 2008 turned out to be a fateful day in the life of Jemark Jackson. The events of that day and night changed his life for the worse and created quite a stir in SVG. The criminal trial record of the police officers shows that Jackson and a friend, Kimron Mc Dowall, were arrested by officers Ballantyne and Charles. At the time of their arrest, they were sitting on a wall at Victoria Park just outside what was then the JP Eustace Secondary School. The officers scuffled the boys, 14 and 15 years at the time, and forced them into a police vehicle. Mc Dowall started to cry, and an officer punched him in the chest and told him to shut up. The officers took the boys to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where the police squeezed their necks and led them down a corridor. Jackson and Mc Dowall were told to sit, and an officer told them, ‘Ah feel to shoot allyo.’ One officer slapped Jackson, and another punched him in the neck. Mc Dowall was savagely smacked across his head, causing blood to ooze from his ears. Jackson and Mc Dowall were told to wait until dark. They were falsely accused of being part of a gang. The officers chided Jackson for refusing to lie during a trial. During the night, officers beat the boys with a hose at the CID. Jackson, who tried to fend off the blows, had his finger busted. Next, Jackson was made to lie on a bench, and an officer beat him with a rubber hose. Then two officers lifted him by his hands and feet and dropped him to the floor twice. While on the floor, an officer kicked him in his stomach. Mc Dowall innocently asked the officers, ‘Why are you doing him so?’ In response, an officer struck Mc Dowall with his gun in the back of the head, knocking him out cold. Two officers rushed Mc Dowall to the bathroom and poured water on his face to revive him. The beating of the boys continued while other officers at CID watched and laughed. Some years after this incident, Mc Dowall disappeared without a trace and is feared dead. After the police administered the beating, the boys were taken to a holding cell where Jackson fell asleep. Jackson was awakened by severe pain in his chest. He asked to be taken to the hospital but was beaten again. Jackson started to vomit, and a female officer
THERE IS VALUE IN PAUSING to ponder why individuals (including ourselves) would veer from doing what is right and engage in acts of disobedience; knowing what is proper but still pursuing activities that go contrary to what is acceptable behaviour. We can understand the situations where infants and young children may “do or say what is wrong” as they seek to discover the boundaries for their activities. However, it may appear to be especially bothersome when adolescents and/or young adults seem determined to “do wrong” regardless of how much love, attention, and guidance caring adults provide. Some of these vulnerable citizens seem to disregard the dangers that often lurk in the shadows (and sometimes in plain sight) as they traverse the often challenging and complicated road to adulthood. Some young persons, assuming that they are more knowledgeable than their adult caregivers, rebel and may venture to engage in dangerous disobedience. This misplaced pride and arrogance can result in tremendous amount of hurt to themselves and others. Adolescence is that period when the individual’s body appears to be rapidly evolving from childhood to adulthood. Growth spurts are normal. The hormones can so impact the youth’s body that they seem to “grow up overnight”. However, in so many instances, while they may take on the physical appearance of an adult their emotional and mental capacities may not experience similar development; they can still appear to be “a child in an adult’s body”. This stage could therefore be considered a “vulnerable and dangerous period of development”. It is especially around this time that temptations may emerge for the individual to experiment with this “new body”. Predators, aware of the vulnerability, could also appear with the hope of exploiting this exposed vulnerability. Sometimes these hunters encourage the innocent and unsuspecting to engage in acts of disobedience in anticipation that they, the predators, may benefit from their folly and indiscretion. These enticements could manifest themselves through behaviours that reflect disrespect to their caregivers, gravitating to the use of illicit drugs, venturing into the dangerous waters of sexual impropriety, and so on. Based on the foregoing, caring adults must forever be on guard to intercept the minds of our youth with intent. Every effort must be made to monitor who they associate with, what they read, which television programmes the view, which internet sites they visit, and so on. These activities influence their thought patters and their general attitude to life. The adults therefore need to be guardians of their (the youths) thoughts until they are mature and responsible enough to do so on their
own. This is a responsibility and a privilege that must not be taken lightly. One act of indiscretion or foolish choice can significantly curtail their noble hopes and dreams. These are conversations that we must have with our wards (male and female). We must not become so tired or frustrated that we allow them to veer away from the values and principles that develop desirable and socially acceptable behaviours. It may seem normal for individuals at this period of their lives to incorrectly assume that bad things may happen to others (but not to them) should they engage in “risky behaviours”. But that is not true. There are many examples of individuals who (sometimes in their anger or when enticed to be rebellious) make rash decision to drive while intoxicated or take “just one drag of the spliff” only to discover that their judgements were impaired, their reflexes diminished, and this resulted in harm to self or others. The scenario described at the end of the preceding paragraph can be extended to portray the magnitude of the guilt that can emerge as a result of such indiscretions; such dangerous disobedience. Many can testify of the lingering shame and remorse that often accompany such behaviours. Unfortunately, none of us can return to the past and rewrite the script. What is done is done. Fortunately, there are some instances where reparation is possible and amendments made. However, there are too many sad stories that remind us that it is better to do what is right and just; to be respectful and obedient. There is nothing inherently wrong when individuals (young and old) engage in critical thinking and/or see things from different perspectives. This is normal and should be encouraged. However, mutual respect and objectivity must always be the hallmark of such valuable engagements. Our homes, workplaces, churches, and the society at large, would fall into the abyss of anarchy if individuals are allowed to flaunt the principles and rules that keep societies strong. We must communicate this to our wards. We must share such insights with our family members, co-workers, neighbours, and friends. It would be foolish and irresponsible to have them “learn from experience” noting that some may argue that they are prepared to pursue that option — learning the hard way. Too much is at risk with such an approach. We know what the boundaries are and should be disciplined and caring enough to strengthen the moorings that are anchored in integrity, honesty, and purity. It will not happen by default. It must be taught and periodically reinforced. While everyone has freedom of choice, we do have a privilege to influence such choices by conversing about and discouraging dangerous disobedience. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
advised the officers to take him to the hospital. X-rays showed that Jackson was suffering from internal bleeding. The following morning he fell into a coma and remained unconscious for 7 of the 13 days spent at the hospital. The police high command panicked because they thought Jackson was going to die. A doctor testifying at Jackson’s trial said that his injuries were akin to those suffered by someone who fell from a helicopter. DPP Colin Williams was incensed with the ill-treatment of the young boys. Four officers were charged for the assault, and DPP Williams personally prosecuted the case. They were convicted and fined $1,500. PM Gonsalves hired his friend, Barbadian Queen’s Counsel Richard Cheltenham, to defend the rogue cops in their appeal. The Court of Appeal upheld the conviction of the officers. Lo and behold, Gonsalves government rehired the convicted officers disregarding the loud cry among the people for the officers to be dismissed and jailed. Yet, all of them continue to work in criminal investigation. On November 17, 2018, Jackson’s lawyer filed a civil claim on his behalf. Jackson was seeking compensation for the severe injuries he sustained at the hands of the criminal police officers. He asked the court to award him damages for: 1. Assault 2. Battery 3. False imprisonment 4. Wrongful arrest 5. Unlawful detention 6. Aggravated damages 7. Interest 8. Cost. It is more than 12 years since police officers mercilessly beat Jackson to within a breath of life. The state has refused to settle this case. It applied to have the case struck out and failed. It has stonewalled and used delaying tactics. Gonsalves’ Ministry of Justice insisted on going to trial. They claim Jackson’s vomiting and coma were induced by medication and not caused by police excessive force and brutality. Over these years, the AG’s chambers took the view that Jackson is a common criminal who deserves no compensation. Unfortunately, they conveniently forget that Jackson was a 14-year-old boy without a criminal record at the time of the beating. Finally, Jackson’s sad ending should be placed squarely at the feet of Ralph Gonsalves and his administration. They have shown a callous disregard for the human rights of this young man as well as the quest for justice. Imagine a different ending for Jemark Jackson if the Gonsalves administration had done the decent thing and settled the case. Such an outcome may have radically altered Jackson’s life chances. An adequate and proper compensation package would have allowed Jackson to live a comfortable life away from crime. The system willfully failed Jemark Jackson. Now, it can grin remorselessly at his tragic ending.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Many Vincentians not coming back to SVG to live MANY VINCENTIANS who live abroad have told the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O‘Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, that they think it would be a big mistake for them to return to SVG to live. Even before the volcano eruption, Vincentians abroad were appalled by the state of SVG. When they visited SVG on holiday to see family, they were amazed by how dirty Kingstown was and the extent of the poverty throughout the country. They have said that they think there is not much to do in SVG and not much opportunity. When they compare SVG to the places where they live abroad, such as the UK, Canada and the USA, they say that SVG is lacking in facilities, and the poverty and widespread destitution is very sad. Many
Vincentians whose children have received school and university education abroad say their children do not want to live in SVG, because of the lack of job opportunities and long-term career prospects. They say that the ULP regime has really destroyed the country and taken it down to a very bad level. They are concerned, too, about quality of lifestyle if they returned to SVG. When you compare SVG to New Zealand or Singapore, for instance, there is a big difference in lifestyle. People in New Zealand and Singapore experience a high-quality lifestyle and living environment. New Zealand or Singapore is better for raising and educating children and can provide better job opportunities. New Zealand and Singapore have built free, high-quality education from
pre-school to their own universities for every child, and their economies are driven with a high rate of return on investments and knowledge-based services. New-Zealand and Singapore have greater equality, also, for its people. You will not find racists tax policies in these countries that disadvantage local people in favour of super-rich foreigners, such as the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002. New Zealand and Singapore are countries with very low crime rates and unemployment of only about two per cent. They have good health and leisure facilities and their people are equipped to compete for jobs in the global workplace. SVG needs to change a lot for us to attract skilled and educated Vincentians abroad, to come back to SVG to live and invest their money
and ability in improving SVG. We need equal rights and equal opportunity, but more importantly, we want a fair tax system that will provide resources to give all our children equality in education and employment, and significant opportunities to have a high quality lifestyle. It is important that we provide incentives to encourage Vincentians abroad to come back to SVG and help our economy develop as to become a modern economy. Work must be done to tackle the poverty that has been caused by the ULP regime’s economic incompetence evidence of which is prevalent throughout the country. We need to stop generational poverty and create generational universityeducated families and households.
No justice without equal rights ourselves, to our children and grandchildren, as well as the country and the greater good, to speak out Dear Sir: when we see injustice and abuse of power. We cannot sit idly by and not IT WAS Ella Wheeler Wilcox who be concerned about what is happening wrote, “To sin by silence when we in this blessed land Hairouna, and the should protest makes a coward out of dispensing of justice to the ordinary men. The human race has climbed on man. protest. Had no voice been raised It appears that justice is not only against injustice, ignorance and lust, blind in St. Vincent and the the Inquisition yet would serve the Grenadines but also that it has two law. The few who dare must speak and faces. It was Martin Luther King who speak again to right the wrongs of popularized the adage, ‘Injustice many.” anywhere is a threat to justice Our people are becoming more and everywhere!’ more conscious that we owe it to An Open Letter to the Attorney General of SVG, Mr. Jaundy Martin
The justice system
since that incident. However, no arrest has been made, no one has been charged, no one had been relieved of their duty or duties as would happen in any ‘civilized’ nation or democratic state, founded on the principles of, ‘No man is above the law’ and ‘Our nation is a nation of laws and not of men.’ The Association of Writers of SVG was established with the obligation to speak out for the voiceless, the marginalized, the victimized, the disenfranchised and the socially excluded. Sir, I would like that you reflect on the aforementioned and be of good courage and fair in the pursuit of justice, fair play, ethics, integrity, equity and equality in the justice system, of which you are a prime executor. On account of what has happened to Mr. John and the course that has ensured to address the matter, most right thinking Vincentians are asking, am I next? We are kindly soliciting your intervention in this yet unfolding, disgusting matter so as to ensure that ‘justice must not only be served it must appear to be served’. We want nothing but justice without fear or favour and that the process proceeds in maintenance of the rule of law. ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’. We anticipate that you will take our call seriously and await your just action.
The distrust of the justice system (as oxymoronic as it may seem) is so prevalent in our country now more than before, it can breed a new kind of lawlessness, and a form of vigilantism (open or subtle) which, in turn, will threaten the undermining of the entire justice system, and erode the country’s trust in law enforcement, the very fabric on which justice hinges. This downward spiral eventually corrodes the moral authority of law enforcement and creates widening rifts in the community. We are therefore, calling on all well intentioned persons, including all of your legal advisors, to address this vexing ordeal expeditiously and intervene now. Don’t let the anger of the people go unheard. (Martin Luther cautioned, ‘Riot is the language of the unheard.’) We surely don’t wish blessed Hairouna to sink into further social decadence or unrest when it can be prevented. Our people are experiencing an unprecedented level of poverty never before seen in this blessed land. We are already experiencing the highest level of unemployment since adult suffrage and hikes in the prices of goods and services because of unjust taxation. In essence, we are facing our lowest standard of living of all times as a nation. Let us not provoke our people to further wrath. Our organization - Association Of Writers Of SVG — is duty bound to join in the struggle for justice for Mr. Yours Respectfully, Cornelius John, who was allegedly shot in the sanctuary of his home by a Dr. Chester Toney custodian of the Ministry of Justice President of Association Of Writers and accomplices. SVG It has been almost two months now
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 11.
Education
SVG holding out for CXC change
at the Community granted in that [11th June] or sometime not fully concluded, the early next week.” Education Minister College, those exams are this year, we are TEACHERS, STUDENTS, returning to doing He acknowledged proceeded to allude to going to commence and parents here have sometime around the one paper only, as further that the Ministry proposed dates for been awaiting the final upcoming examinations. middle of August,” he well as the SBA’s. of Education was forced decision on the dates for With regard to the to ask CXC for special “We are going to have added. Education Minister Curtis King external examinations In addition to the TVET students, considerations regarding the CPEA exam for the is optimistic that CXC will administered by the the administration for primary school Grade 6 request for date changes, your projects will make an adjustment in the Caribbean Examinations be audited in the suite of exams to be students on Tuesday the Ministry of examination schedule to Council (CXC). done by CXC for 2021, 27th and Wednesday Education has also October.” accommodate the particular Among the anxious 28th July,” he sought for changes in the For other especially with St. situation of Vincentian students are: the Grade 6 Vincent and the announced. format of the Caribbean students writing the students. examinations. students the Grenadines’ unique “With regard to the Caribbean Primary Exit situation: the impact of CSEC for the Form 5 and About this, the examinations will Results will be Assessment (CPEA); the the COVID-19 pandemic some Form 4 students, commence on Monday 28 minister said, “We have released between the Fifth Form students, the coupled with the June 2021, with CAPE those exams are going to also sought special final week of September Caribbean Secondary explosive eruption of the commence in early consideration in the and CSEC completed and the first week in Education Certificate August; and with regard format of the exams. between 28th June and La Soufriere volcano. October. (CSEC) and SVG 30th July, 2021. Even with discussions to CAPE for the students And that too has been Community College students the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Education Minister, KENEZIA BAYNES, a former performer for 2020 was in person. However, the Hon. Curtis King, prevailing circumstances student of the St Joseph’s Bhedesh Persaud of Queen’s addressing the June 3 College in Guyana. He won the occasioned by the COVID-19 opening ceremony of the Convent (Marriaqua), is the pandemic forced an innovative Overall Outstanding 2020 recipient of the CXC Orientation Session for Cohort-Four of the Youth Award as the Most Outstanding Performance Achievement Awa approach, where all the students, parents, principals, Candidate for Geography. rd with 22 subjects at Grade I and Adult Training for teachers, award sponsors and and 1 subject at Grade II. Ms. Baynes was declared Employment (YATE) officials from CXC participated Ms. Baynes was presented recipient of the Professor Wilma Programme, admitted with her award here in SVG by virtually. Bailey Award during a virtual that discussions with Antigua & Barbuda’s Prime Senior Education Officer with presentation ceremony on CXC regarding special Minister Gaston Browne, responsibility for Secondary Thursday 3rd June, hosted by consideration for Schools- Mrs. Kay Martin Jack, delivered the feature address Vincentian students were CXC in Antigua and Barbuda. and stressed the need for the acting on behalf of CXC. The ceremony served to almost completed. Caribbean Region to build an The Annual CXC Award recognize the Caribbean’s top “We are now at the education system that Ceremony is considered one of sixteen awardees at the final stage of the adequately responds to the the prestigious events on the July/August 2020 examinations. conclusion of the needs of modern economies by While Trinidad and Tobago Caribbean calendar. discussion,” he giving students the tools to Outstanding students would dominated the awards receiving acknowledged. Kenezia Baynes - 2020 CXC succeed at all levels of their usually be flown to the host eight, the regional top “Hopefully by Friday Top Performer in Geography. country to receive their awards educational pursuits. by GLORIAH…
Local girl takes CXC Geography Award
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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Volunteerism
Freewinds Volunteer Ministers in SVG Right: Volunteer Ministers put their backs into cleaning the ash from drains and ditches.
assessments of areas in the most hazardous zones, so that disaster relief planning could be done for these. Once the supplies were organized and stored for proper distribution, it was time to prioritize what was needed to be done. The collaboration with the Red Cross was invaluable in Where and when possible, supplies were delivered directly to those in need. accomplishing this. Soon, in addition to the distribution of relief AFTER SPENDING NEARLY the arrival of a 40-foot The Volunteer A MONTH on mainland St. container of much Ministers distributed the supplies to villages and Vincent, the Volunteer needed relief supplies relief supplies to shelters shelters for evacuees, the Volunteer Ministers Ministers from the based on a list of priority for evacuees in executed cleanups by Freewinds completed the items issued by the Kingstown as well as to removing ash from distribution of essential National Emergency villages in the red and drainage, ditches and supplies sent in by the Management orange zones, including rooftops. Wherever this Freewinds Ship, and Organization. This the most remote and work was started, the executed a massive container was arranged devastated areas like local residents joined cleanup in several towns by the Freewinds Owia, Fancy and Sandy thereby expediting this in the red and orange through donations by the Bay. zones. International Association They also assisted the basic but necessary The project began with of Scientologists. Red Cross by conducting undertaking.
Ms. Kirstie Clements, the team leader of the Volunteer Ministers on St. Vincent, had this to say: “We spent nearly a month on St. Vincent and were welcomed at every turn by the many kind and spirited people that we now all consider lifelong friends. From Chateaubelair to Georgetown, we were greeted with smiling faces, expressions of thanks and most importantly, people jumping in to help their own communities. The island was clearly taking a turn for the better. Joy “Mamma” Duncan of Chateaubelair had this to say about the Volunteer Minsters: “When I first met them I was asked what is
needed. I told them food and water, and the very next day they showed up with it along with other supplies. “After the supplies were given out they started to help with cleanup, digging ash out of drainage ditches. These volunteers worked very hard. They visited the Chateau area a number of times. We are very thankful for what they have done.” A Volunteer Minister’s mandate is to be “a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others.” (Contributed by Freewind Volunteer Ministers)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 13.
Regional
Double whammy for LIAT
LIF LIAT ATR aircraft was reported to have the highest levels for synthetic fibres, opaque particle, fibre glass, fungi and black particles. pilots prone to hyperallergenic responses should not operate the aircraft identified in the study until remedial measures have been instituted. It was agreed that Dr. Christian would conduct a follow up study, but the airline collapsed before that could be undertaken.
Action by dismissed pilots Former employees of LIAT in Antigua, met and rejected the Government’s offer of part severance payment. (Photo Source: ANR) LIAT, OR WHAT’S LEFT of the entity known as LIAT (1974) Ltd. and that entity that Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has said he has salvaged, was dealt a double whammy last week. Antigua News Room online service reported at the end of last week that Prime Minister Gaston Browne was made to endure even further strain, when the former LIAT workers employed in Antigua and whose services had been terminated, rejected his government’s offer of paying 50 per cent of their severance in cash, land and bonds. In fact, it was Prime Minister Browne himself who announced that the union representing the former LIAT workers had rejected the offer, but he cautioned that the offer will not change.
complaints from a number of pilots that they were falling ill at the end of their flights”, between 2016 and just before the company collapsed in 2020’. Barbados Today reported that Environmental Scientist Dr Linroy Christian from Antigua and Barbuda was contracted to conduct a study, and produced a report dated February 18, 2019. That study, as per Barbados Today, pointed to a link between the cause of a variety of respiratory problems, allergic reactions, headaches and other health issues experienced by the pilots, “to contaminated air quality inside the aircraft”.
and passengers; * the ground air conditioning units were identified as an additional source of potential allergens, and were not maintained according to a defined and documented schedule and standard procedures. LIF (one type of ATR planes as per the LIAT fleet) recorded the highest levels for synthetic fibres, opaque particle, fibre glass, fungi and black particles.
Recommendations
Dr. Christian’s study advanced 21 recommendations but he admitted that he “was not sure if any of the recommendations were implemented by LIAT”. Findings Among the 21 recommendations were: * immediate in-depth Among the scientist’s remedial measures findings were: * accumulation of dust should be instituted for Scientific Study the LIF aircraft; and fibres on surfaces * that the air within the flight deck And in what could conditioning and and the main cabin; have far reaching recirculation system be * material found repercussions, a scientific within the mixing specifically addressed; study that was made * improve daily and chamber, recirculating available recently, is said fan, and supply ducting in-depth maintenance to to have uncovered a include routine of the air conditioning potential source of vacuuming of the cabin /recirculation system; chemicals onboard housekeeping; * filtration of the certain LIAT ATR * introduce scheduled recirculating air did not planes, that may pose a deep-cleaning to remove occur; long-term risk to crew particles from vents, * housing of the and passengers instrument panels, recirculating fan was travelling on those lined with foam that was mixing chamber and aircraft. inundated with dust and baggage hold; Barbados Today, in a a soot-like material a * investigate the June 5 article, reported potential source of possibility of duct that the study was chemicals that may pose cleaning as a ordered “following a long-term risk to crew maintenance activity’
Dr. Christian’s 600page report sparked the filing of a class action claim last year against LIAT. It was lodged in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in
Antigua and Barbuda by five pilots who were among hundreds of staff members terminated as part of a restructuring process to try to stave off liquidation. The ex-pilots are accusing the company of frustrating their efforts to access the courts to get justice for the years of suffering from being forced to fly “sick” planes; that the company was fully aware that they got ill from working in its aircraft, nevertheless caused them to continue to work in the poor air-quality environment. But even though the pilots who were
adversely affected by the environmental problems are no longer employed by LIAT, Barbados TODAY reported that some of those who were kept on to fly the planes, have been experiencing health challenges similar to those of their former work colleagues. LIAT suspended its services in April 2020 purportedly because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It returned to flying with a limited schedule on November 1, 2020, with its first daily flight from Antigua to Dominica. (Sources: Barbados Today, Antigua News Room)
14. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
SVG Public Service Union provides relief aid to members The St Vincent and the Grenadines Public Service Union (PSU) is cognizant of the impactthat the eruptions of La Soufriere Volcano on the lives of all Public Servants. We stand in solidarity with our members who have been displaced or affected in one way or another by this natural disaster. The PSU as a trade union has an obligation and a social responsibility to provide assistance in times of disaster. In light of this, the PSU has partnered with the Caribbean Public Service Association and other sister trade unions across the Caribbean to provide support to members. We have mobi-
lized relief supplies and have distributed over 100 care packages to members housed in government shelters and private homes. The union express gratitude to those organizations that provided humanitarian aid to persons in need, we look forward to your continued support. The SVG Public Service Union will continue to extend relief to members once it is feasible for us to do so. “The cause of one is the cause of all.”
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 15.
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16. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Tribute
My father and me: A Tribute I WAS BORN TO A FATHER RAS CARLOS HOOPER and a mother Jacquelyn Nanton. My mother and father first met in 1990 Union Island where they grew fond of each other.
The relationship produced eight children. I spent my childhood in Petit Bordel having fun playing cricket, football and rounders in Owia.
My father was a keen cricketer. He once had his own team and would organize matches against teams from Owia. I remained in Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines from my birth in 1990 to 2002. I remember the good times we had growing up. My father would take us to Falls of Baleine on weekends.
Ras Carlos Hooper and his lifemate Jacquelyn Nanton. He was a farmer so most of the time he was not at home. When he was, he took us to school in the morning in his Jeep, but he never picked us up, so we walked home each afternoon with cousins and friends. That was a good activity. My time in school was good. I remember having problems with reading and writing but my focus was never far from listening to the teachers. And eating crackers and cheese for lunch was never far from my mind either, unless my mother prepared lunch for us to take to school. Along with some of my brothers and sister, I left St. Vincent for England at the age of eleven. My mother spent 7 years in England with us before some of brothers and sister returned home. One of my older brothers and I remained in England where I completed college and began working to support myself. I thank the Almighty for giving me the wisdom and understanding that life is a journey. I returned to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2015. I remember landing at ET Joshua airport and my brother being there to greet me. I remember, on getting home, greeting
my mother and brothers and being so pleased that I was home. I remained at home for the first Sunday of my return and on the following Monday I visited one of my aunts and one of my cousins, and then moved around the village, my home village. I stayed at home for a few days then I went into the mountain to see my father. The first thing I did was to give him a big hug after which we sat and spoke about some of my experiences in England. I recall him asking about Michael Owens, a football legend in England. All said, January to April 2015 was the most significant time in my life. During that time my father taught me the simple things in life. And as I related what he taught to my own journey and my own struggles, it made me realize that my father was an amazing and intelligent person who had come from humble beginnings in Rose Bank. My father, Ras Carlos Hooper, iconic marijuana farmer, passed away on May 8 and was laid to rest on May 31, 2021. He will not be forgotten. Carlos Nanton Son
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 17.
Opinion
To the relevant authority can tell we are still pretty much primitive! We are doing things like we It was degrading the way the people are uncivilized. I hope my harsh criticism rings a bell. rushed as if they didn’t have dignity! It’s one thing to say they treat the people like derelicts, it’s another thing The conclusion! when people demand respect; they I’m begging the relevant authority would get it! I was appalled to change their ‘impish’ and ‘scampish’ ways. The vagabonds reach your door A suggestion It was appalling to see how the to ask for your vote, but they don’t people of North Leeward rushed for know how to distribute the food Before the orders were giving ration last Sunday morning, in the adequately. The deceitful technocrats prematurely to boot “Negroes” out of vicinity of Troumaca. There was no the camps to return to a dusty, toxic proper coordination to guide the environment in North Leeward, the distribution of the food and to ensure government should have allocated food those in need got. and other necessities to these areas, The relevant authority didn’t have especially in the farming communities the decent courtesy to inform the where agriculture was disrupted. people about their arrival. They turned In this country that is 90% black, up like an uninvited guest, then flew “Negroes” are treated as the dregs of out like mosquitoes, leaving an eerie the earth. I can assure you that if the sound in the people’s ears. people in the Orange and Red Zones were of Portuguese stock, they would My yes have gotten better treatment. CAN THE RELEVANT authority come to the aid of the people? Can the highly esteemed slickers who govern this country do things properly? Ah, it is a plea and a beckoning call to those who administrate their civic duty to treat the people with dignity.
From what my eyes have witnessed, they brought in the food and gave it to the people as if they were domesticated animals. Naturally, this kind of operation has brought out the worst in people. There was a frenzy to see who could get to the truck the fastest. People were pushing and shoving to get one of the coveted boxes of groceries. One villager asked the other if he got any of the food, he answered, Nope. I ain’t get none! They only giving food to certain people.”
Making a comparison If one has to compare the relief/recovery programme during the 1979 eruption to this current explosion, unquestionably there was a much better structure in 1979 as far as food distribution was concerned, especially after the people returned to their homes. By far, people were a lot more civil and collective when dealing with matters at the time.
A big disgrace
The Analytical Voice Someone has also suggested: Why can’t the Area Representative tend to the logistics by marshaling a group of competent people to coordinate things, so that the people can get the necessary help in this time of crisis? The Area Representative should see to it that the people get a fair share of the food donated to us by the charitable organizations. The NGOs and Nemo should inform the people in these deprived communities when they would be in the area, so that no one will be left out from receiving their package if they so desire.
Forward Ever, Backward Never! As an independent country, we are doing things backwards. Everything looks hogwash! Our approach and method to doing things are wacky. We need a bliss of cultural refinement to sharpen our scope so as to do things in a sophisticated manner. We may think that this country is advancing; I
Installing monitoring equipment stalled Forbes, Director of NEMO, a few days prior and neither she nor anyone else Dr. Gonsalves wanted to know to told him of any impediment to whom the request was made and granting permission for construction advised that since it should have been at the sites as identified. made of the Lands and Planning Dr. Gonsalves admitted during the Division, it should have presented discourse that this matter should little difficulty since Montgomery have been attended to with urgency Daniel, who is acting Prime Minister and not become entangled in the in Dr. Gonsalves’ absence, has the usual government bureaucracy. responsibility for those portfolios. When all was done, there was a The Prime Minister also disclosed sense that a call from the Prime that he had spoken to Michelle Minister would set the situation right. Continued from Backpage.
know how to assist the cripple, dumb, deaf and blind to the polling station. But they don’t know how to give the people assistance in a time of need. In Sin Vincent, every man is for himself. Who doesn’t have the vigor to fight would die! If we do not relinquish the crab in a barrel philosophy, there will continue to be more lamentation and sighing in the land. I plead with the relevant authority to do right. Carden A. Michael
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18. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
Read the message, man Dear George, MY GIRLFRIEND and I had an ugly disagreement. She suggested, and I agreed, that we should separate for one month for things to cool down, and come up with a plan that would make our relationship stronger. The truth is I had accused her of messing around with her ex which she vehemently denied. The month went by and I went to her house. What a shock. I met her there with the same guy I had accused her of messing with. This time she could not defend herself. Instead she went down on her knees and begged me to forgive her, admitting it was a mistake and it was just that one time they were together, because he wanted one last fling before she went back to me. My question to you: Is there such a thing as one last fling? I guess my real question is, should I buy her explanation and forgive her?
Tired of the runaround Dear Tired, The message your girlfriend is giving you is transmitted through her actions and not her words. She had one month to decide whether she should cut all former ties and build trust in the relationship with you. Instead, it looks like she has chosen to remain tied to her ex. That should be enough to convince you that you are never going to be her number one. This is a situation that warrants one thing: Tell her that actions speak louder than words and then move on.
George
No use hanging around Dear George, MY LADY FRIEND wants us to get married but there is one thing that is causing me to move slowly in that direction. You see, George, I’m not sure if my lady is interested in only men. I’m seeing things that cause me to think so, but I am still nor certain. I admit I haven’t
asked her about it, and I would hate to think I went ahead and got married only to have her reveal her deep dark secret of being bisexual. That, for sure would cause the dissolution of the marriage.
Suspicious
It is not wise to go into marriage with burning questions and lingering suspicions so, if you suspect your partner is bi-sexual then ask her directly. Confront the issue head on and get it out of the way. In any case, if you feel that she is holding out on you, then cut the rope right there and then.
Dear Suspicious, George
He needs help! Your boyfriend needs to get psychological/psychiatric EVERY TIME my boyfriend is at fault and help. Rather than trying to weasel his way out of I confront him, he promises to do better but his sticky situations, he needs to learn to accept never does. responsibility for his I have met him cheating on me several times and when I threaten to leave him he would threaten suicide. I usually give into him because suicide is a serious thing and I do not want to be the cause of his death. Can you please tell me the best way to deal with this situation?
Dear George,
Soft hearted lover, Dear Soft hearted lover,
actions. I suggest you find someone who is “relationship-ready”. You deserve better that your current boyfriend.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Your emotional partner will push the right buttons this week. You are best to deal with those outside your family. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Avoid lovers who already have a relationship, even if it is a bad one. Control your emotions and everything will fall into place. Travel will be favorable. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Family responsibilities are escalating. Your need to put great detail into everything you do may cause you to miss the overall picture. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Romantic opportunities are evident. You will be emotional about money matters. You should get out and meet new people this week. Minor health problems could result through exhaustion. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Look after financial transactions this week. Your partner may not understand your mood swings, but if you are willing to communicate, a lot of grief can be avoided. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Attend seminars that will bring you in contact with the right people. Your interests could lead you down avenues you never realized existed. You need activity.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don’t say things that could be damaging later on. Cut loose. Try not to overspend on friends or family. Don’t get involved in other people’s private doings. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will have extra energy; put it to good use. Spend some quality time with the one you love. Your talents will shine at work. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) This will not be the time to give too much to your children. Don’t count on others to cover up for your shortcomings. You are best to deal with those outside your family. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Friends from your past may come back into your life. Get involved in worthwhile endeavors and meet new friends. Stay out of other people’s affairs. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You must refrain from overspending on entertainment. Speak of your future goals, intentions, and commitments. Think about your priorities. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) If you’re already in a relationship, use this added energy passionately. Pursue outdoor activities or any physical exertion. You may find yourself mixed up in a triangle of sorts.
ACROSS 1. Sty denizen 4. Is the right size for 8. Roasting skewer 12. Entertainer Gabor 13. Field 14. Valiant man 15. Mesh material 16. Sharp taste 17. Harvest (wheat) 18. Garden tool 20. Changes course 21. “Moonstruck” costar 23. Aloof person 25. More uncommon 27. Near sea level 28. Actor Hanks 31. Angry response 32. Future oak 34. Monkey cousin 35. Restful spot 36. Feline companion 37. Shoe bottoms 39. Poultry-farm residents 40. Lairs 41. Greens dish 44. Japanese dollar 45. Secret scheme 46. Mama’ husband 49. Tavern bill 52. Otherwise 53. Comedian King 54. Self-absorption 55. Tinting chemicals 56. Speak (with) 57. Overnight moisture DOWN 1. Barnyard enclosure 2. Everyday contraction 3. Amassed 4. Destiny 5. Wordsmith Gershwin 6. Twice five 7. Hang down
8. Landscaping plant 9. Look curiously 10. Persian Gulf nation 11. Blouses and sweaters 19. Valuable rock 20. Urban settlements 21. Nursery 35Across 22. Rabbit relative 23. Casino attractions, briefly 24. Neither’s partner 26. Drove fast 28. Having skill 29. Uncork
30. Cluttered state 33. Soda container 38. Lyric tribute 39. Abhors 41. Proceeded swiftly 42. Loyal friend 43. Misplace
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 19.
44. Rigorous pull 46. Butter square 47. Reminiscent of: 2 wds. 48. Buddy 50. Accumulate birthdays 51. Arrow shooter
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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN
SVG heading to Paralympic Games Creese has been under the guidance of Swim Coache- Rickydene Alexander and Kyle Dougan, as he prepares for his maiden outings. Happy to be part of the Paralympics, Creese said, “I am proud to represent my country as a Paralympic swimmer … I am feeling so good that I have this opportunity, so that I can be a role model for other people.” While he might be considered being new to Swimming, Creese is somewhat of a national figure, as he performs on stage with soca artistes during the annual Carnival celebrations. He is far from being daunted by his restriction and is an ardent footballer, participating in the annual South Leeward Inter-Village Football Competition, using his crutch as his support. “I am asking everyone to give me the full support… I am asking everyone who is an amputee, don’t let that keep you down… You can be anyone who you want to be,” he appealed.
from his school… We had another who went to the Parapan American Games in Peru in 2019, he was a good swimmer, but he doesn’t really want to do it again,” Daniel revealed. Daniel disclosed that other efforts to recruit para athletes, including taking prospective athletes on cultural visits, but they have lost interest. Undaunted by the ‘stop—start’, Daniel said that his organisation is not relenting on its recruitment process. “We are already looking for people… What we have done is connecting up with the other organisations which serve the people with disabilities and let them know that we are there for
Rudi Daniel, President of the National Paralympic Committee, SVG, affirmed that his organization continues on a recruit drive. the sport,” Daniel emphasised. Daniel is hopeful that through the opportunity afforded to Creese, that others will be enthused to follow suit.
Roban lowers his own record
EIGHTEEN-YEAR-OLD HANDAL ROBAN has reset the St Vincent and the Grenadines Under-20 Male 800m record, for the second time this year. Roban, a sixth form student of the Jamaica College, did so last Saturday at the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association/ Jamaica Olympic Association Destiny Meet at Coach – Rickydene Alexander (left) and the Jamaica National Stadium. Paralympic Games bound- Dexroy Creese. Competing for the Jamaica College, Roban clocked 1:49.94, to better his ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES (SVG) 1:50.30 done on 21st April, at the will take a plunge into the 2021 Jamaica Athletics Administrative Challenges Paralympic Games, set for Tokyo, Japan, Association Qualification Trial Series, held at the Calabar High School from 24th August to 5th September. President of the National Set to make the historic move and Paralympic Committee, St Vincent and Facility. Roban’s new time in the event, participate in the Games, is amputee- the Grenadines- Rudi Daniel, is Dexroy Creese, a resident of Campden pleased that his organisation has been stands just outside the senior St Vincent and the Grenadines record of Park. able to hurdle some of the challenges, 1:48.60, achieved by Eversley Linley Creese will be the country’s wild and get someone to the Paralympic in 1992. card in Swimming, where he will Games. Roban, who is also the holder of the compete in 50m and 100m Freestyle Chronicling the “ups and downs”, St Vincent and the Grenadines Underevents. Daniel said that before the unearthing 20 1500m record, as well as the Before heading off to Japan, Creese of Creese, several persons had been Intermediate Male 400, 800 and will journey to Berlin, Germany this identified, but they were unable to 1500m best times at the Inter Sunday, to participate in the World Secondary School Athletics stay the course. Para Swimming Series. Championships (ISSA), said breaking “We used to have a person in Apart from competing in Germany, more national is on his agenda for the Athletics, but she has dropped out … Creese will be assessed and classified rest of 2021. We had a double prosthesis, but he as a Para-athlete. A gold and bronze medallist at the was off and on, and there was a He was set to go to Italy in April, Junior Carifta Games in 2018 and swimmer from Bequia, but we could however, the eruptions of the La 2019 respectively, Roban was also a get the proper documentation for him Soufriere volcano thwarted that plan. bronze medallist at the 2019 North
Handal Roban is on a quest to break as many national records as he can. American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) Under-18 Championships in Mexico. Roban has qualified for the 800m at the 2021 World Junior Athletics Championships, which takes place in Nairobi, Kenya in August.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 21.
Sports
Edwards happy with pitches for VPL WILLIAM ‘BILL’ EDWARDS, Head Grounds Man of the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, was happy with the way the pitches played, as well as pleased with the effort of the ground staff, during the recently concluded Dream 11 Vincy Premier League (VPL T10 3.0). All the matches in this year’s
edition of the VPL were played at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, the premiere cricket field in SVG. Edwards, himself a former national opening batsman, was particularly satisfied given that it was the first time the pitches were being used since the resurfacing in January.
The Ground staff that worked diligently to prepare the new pitches for use by the VPL.
“I am very pleased how the wickets played with the bounce and the carry. We put in a lot of work leading up and during the tournament. The bounce didn’t really surprise me because during the preparation my test showed it had a lot of bounce. So when I saw the ‘carrying through’ in the games, I was very pleased about it,” Edwards commented after the conclusion of the tournament on Sunday 30th May. He also gave his fellow grounds men credit for the work they put in before and during the tournament, saying, “I was very pleased with the support from the grounds staff. We worked well together; they pulled their weight.” Edwards is of the view that the kind of start they were able to get from the VPL tournament; he is eager to host a major tournament. He noted, “Where we didn’t test any of the pitches before and the kind of start and results that we got, it will be much better with the carry for upcoming tournaments, which can only help in the development of the
cricketers.” He described the pitches as pleasing the batsmen with the balls coming on, and encouraging the bowlers with the bounce. Edwards disclosed, though, that for the local competition the preparation will be different. “The preparation for local cricket may William ‘Bill’ not be the same but Edwards, Head the players will still Groundsman/N be having a good SP, is pleased surface to play on. with how the During the local new pitches competition we played during usually start prepare the VPL. to the pitches from Wednesday or Thursday for Saturday, but in the VPL or even regional cricket we usually start at least a week before with pre preparation,” Edwards explained.
IT-DAT, High Performance dominate Meet LOCAL TRACK athletes are welcoming every opportunity for some competition and they did so some three or so weekends ago, when Team Athletics SVG hosted a Mini Meet at the Diamond Track and Field Facility. The results of the
Meet showed that members of IT-DAT Academy and High Performance athletics clubs dominated the procceedings. IT-DAT victories: Kyle Lawrence, boys 1517, 100m (11.10) and 200m (22.03); Shonte Matthias, girls 15-17,
100m (13.01) and 200m (26.67); Isha Samuel, girls 12 and under, 80 meters (11.69); Aniya Patrick, girls 13-14, 80m (11.60); Roland Richards, boys 13-14, 80m (10.25); Tyhra Charles, girls 1314, 1000m (3:46.89); Markie Edwards, Male 20+, 1500m (4:15.73);
Local track and field athletes are relishing whatever activity comes their way at the new Diamond Track and Field Facility. Odesha Nanton, female 20+, 200m (25.56); Earl Simmonds Male 20+, 200m (22.70).
Baptiste eyes the ultimate in umpiring ANDY BAPTISTE, a graduate of the Neil Williams Cricket Academy who has set aside his cricket gear for a career as a cricket umpire, is prepared to pursue umpiring to its highest level. Baptiste and Selwyn Allen, served as the two match referees for the recently held Vincy Premier League (VPL T10 3.0). “I am very passionate when it comes to umpiring. I see umpiring as a hobby but definitely something I love and am committed to,” Baptiste shared with this publication. And as far as his ambitions are concerned, he had no qualms about wanting to make a significant contribution to cricket in this country, with the international stage the ultimate aim. He disclosed, “I have a lot of aspirations; some have been met already while some are still to be
achieved. The latter includes umpiring some local cricket finals; to umpire at a VPL match and even the finals; represent my country and the region at the international level as an umpire; to umpire a World Cup final; to umpire at the IPL, CPL and other leagues, and to be recognized by the ICC as the best umpire in the world.” Baptiste recognized, though, that “these aspirations can only be met through hard work, right attitude, the willingness to learn from others and attending training, etc.” Baptiste recalled having to make a decision, because of the demands of his studies, between the actual game and umpiring. This was in 2017. By this time, he had already clocked up experience of First Division Cricket here, with the Neil Williams Academy and Victors Two, and said he had no
regret when he opted for umpiring. As he awaits words on his umpiring exams, Baptiste is currently bringing his professional skills to bear in an attachment at the Statistical Department. Andy Baptiste Over and has no regret above his in opting for umpiring umpiring over prowess and playing the ambitions, actual game Baptiste, a of cricket. Sandy Bay Government alumnus, is a holder of two Master of Science degrees Geo-informatics and Project Management - from The University of the West Indies.
High Performance victories: Mozart Lavia, boys 15-17, 100m (11.68); Darren Morgan, male 1819, 100m (11.30); Chadroy Mayers, boys 12 and under, 80m (13.18); Kyandra Lynch, girls 1314, 80m (11.60); Akayla Hamlet, girls 15-17, 1500m (5:47.51); Kriston Wyllie, boys 15-17, 1500m (4:32.17); Alroy Barbour, men 18-19, 1500m ( 4:43.60 ); Zita Vincent, 20+ females, 1500m (5:22.85); RoyalLee Solomon, girls 12 and under, 800m (3:06.51); Chadroy Mayers, boys 12 and
under, 1000m (3:45.40); Darren Morgan, men 1819, 200m, (22.51); Kiara Ollivierre, girls 15-17 shot put, (7.78m); female 4x400m relay and the men 18-19 shot put. Xcel Track and Field Club recorded victories in the men 18-19, 1500m; boys 13-14, 1200m; male 20+ men, 200m; boys 517 shot put and the boys 4x400m relay. Speedforce Club took the Male 20+, 100m; Roses Academy took the women 18-19 200 meters and Xceed Sports Club, the girls 15-17 shot put. Stories I.B.A.ALLEN
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22. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Vincy Heat ends World Cup campaign I’M IMAGING people saying that’s not new. We knew that from the first game against Curacao. Following the Guatemala encounter fans were fuming. Swords were drawn and there were clamours for upheavals left, right, and centre. Loyal and sober supporters applauded the team’s efforts against Cuba and perhaps figured if the squad had been given more time to gel, things would have worked differently. I am not going taking issue with anyone. In any event, it makes no sense. There will be lessons, but entering a World Cup competition with an undertrained squad is courting disaster. The administration will have to ensure that the stigma of this expulsion does not play on the psyche of the future players. We thought that we had overcome the Central America bogey of conceding goals by the double figures. Those were years ago against top notched units. Guatemala was not considered in that category. Up to two years ago Vincy Heat was a serious contender for progression into the final stage of the Nation’s Cup. They faltered in a decisive game against Dominica. One would have imagined the complacency of the Dominica game would have been replaced by a quest for more urgency and preparatory works by the Federation. But the wheels seem to have fallen off and the Vincy Heat vehicle struggled to make it to the end. Group winners will be involved in home and away matches ending June 15. First games begin tomorrow June 12 with St. Kitts/Nevis and El Salvador. Haiti and Canada look for the second spot in the eight already filled by Honduras, USA, Costa Rica, Mexico and Jamaica. The third team will be the winner of the Panama/Curacao showdown. Three of those eight go to Qatar for the 2022 World Cup with a fourth possible through InterConfederation play-offs. Some teams will take some consolation from their Second Round performance although, there is no glory in that. For example Trinidad and Tobago will be fuming, with such and early exit. They were expected to have romped through their group. A draw against Puerto Rico was a shock. But a goalless showdown in Nassau gave Bahamas their first World Cup qualifying point. It ensured Trinidad and Tobago’s elimination, for even though they beat St. Kitts Nevis in their last game, they ended one point short. Nicaragua would go back to the drawing board and plot ways of handling obstacles like Haiti who thwarted their chance of progress. Panama left nothing to chance in the decisive encounter with Dominican Republic. Curacao played it safe against Guatemala and their one superiority played a part in their progress. Montserrat continues to surprise and ended with a credible eight points behind leader El Salvador who ended on ten. Vincy Heat could only reflect and analyse what could have been done.
Vincy Heat shifts gear AFTER FAILING to get out of Group C of the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers, St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Vincy Heat will shift focus to next month’s Concacaf Gold Cup qualifier versus Haiti. Vincy Heat is set to meet Haiti at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on 2nd July. And, Head Coach- Kendale Mercury has already put the woes of the World Cup Qualifiers behind him, citing that the Gold Cup has always been his preference. “We had shifted gear even before we went into the Cuba game (on Tuesday), so we are working on that project.” Mercury said recently. “That has always been the priority for me… That is also been measurable, the place that we could absolutely get, if we are given the time to prepare, the necessary support and I am confident that my Federation will do such … .” He noted, though, that the players have to keep that mental focus above what they are now. Whilst working on his end, Mercury said he is cognizant that Haiti will be a formidable opponent. “The Haitians have experience in Gold Cup and they are now into the Second Round of the
Vincy Heat will be hoping to up their performances in the Concacaf Gold Cup Qualifers. Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers… they will be a team in confidence and will have another two games under their belt before they come into the Gold Cup, and knowing them they will play friendlies.” The Head Coach outlined. Mercury is looking to the brokering friendlies and making full use of a three-week training camp. Should the Vincentians topple the Haitians, they will go on to meet the winner of the Bermuda versus Barbados match up. If successful in their second-round match, Vincy Heat will join Group B, along with Canada, Martinique and the USA. Vincy Heat earned their place in the Gold Cup Qualification having placed second to Suriname in the Concacaf Nations League.
World Cup Campaign
The Mercury — coached Vincy Heat ended their Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers last Tuesday, losing one-nil to Cuba at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium in Grenada. A second half header from Meykel Reyes made the difference. This followed a humiliating 100 defeat by Guatemala last Friday in Guatemala. It was the second heaviest defeat in World Cup for this country’s senior football team. The worst was an 11-0 loss to Mexico in 1992. Vincy Heat finished the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers with a 1-3 win/loss ratio. When the Qualifiers began in March, Vincy Heat went under to Curacao, 5-0, but conjured up 3-0 win over the British Virgin Islands. The Vincentians scored 3 goals, whilst conceding 16.
Wilson grateful for VPL experience LUKE WILSON, who was named the Emerging Player of the Dream 11 Vincy Premier League - VPL T10 3.0, when the competition concluded on Sunday 30th May at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, said he was Luke Wilson grateful for the finished 3rd opportunity. among the Wilson, who leading wicketmade his debut takers in the just concluded in this year’s VPL as a VPL T10 3.0 member of the Tournament. Dark View Explorers franchise, was quick to express his feeling after the tournament. “It’s a great feeling
and I’m proud of it. My performances weren’t a surprise but it was unfortunate that I didn’t receive the champions trophy reward along with my team.” Explorers lost to the eventual repeat winner La Soufrière Hikers in a one-wicket, nailbiting final match. Wilson, a national youth cricketer, finished the tournament with 11 wickets from his off spin, making him the third highest wicket-taker in the 2021 tournament. And despite the loss in the finals, he described playing in the tournament as “an enjoyable experience. … I enjoyed the atmosphere on a whole. I can’t really choose anything in particular. I enjoyed getting to play cricket alongside and against players with a lot more experienced than me, and also the camaraderie in my team.” He added, “I also enjoyed
having the support of the local spectators and the chance to play cricket that was broadcast globally. I’ve definitely learned a lot from the experience both on my own and through the advice of those more experienced than me.” Wilson, who was the top wicket-take in the local T20 cricket competition, is hopeful that his VPL performance will be recognized. “I think involvement in the VPL has allowed the selectors for the various levels of cricket both locally and regionally to see my ability. I gained valuable knowledge from the times when things went my way and also when they didn’t. So I think that the experience would open new doors for me while allowing me to further improve my game going forward,” he said with confidence belying his age. I.B.A.ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021. 23.
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FRIDAY, JUNE
11, 2021
VOLUME 115, No.23
www.thevincentian.com
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INSTALLING MONITORING EQUIPMENT STALLED Large gatherings, including funerals, with little regard for Covid-19 protocols, are apparently common place.
‘POLICE DROPPED
THE BALL,Ê SAYS PM to me that there were weaknesses in policing,” Gonsalves said. THE POLICE have stepped up their He said, though, that he was vigilance and enforcement of the informed that that police had COVID-19 protocols which have been speaking to the proprietors been in place for some time now. of certain establishments and that Prime Minister and Minister of on June 4, they took certain steps. National Security Dr Ralph Within recent weeks, large Gonsalves called in on radio on social gatherings have been seen June 6 from Cuba, to say that he at various places throughout the had been advised that police had country, prompting health taken certain steps to curb the officials to admit at a press number of social gatherings being conference on June 1 that this staged, despite health officials was a worrying issue. warning to desist from organizing Reports are that there have and staging such events. been large gatherings at some He criticized the weaknesses in night spots and gatherings of policing within the last few weeks individuals, particularly saying that it had been obvious to youngsters, at other well-known the public that the COVID-19 locations like the car park at protocols were not being fully Massy Stores, Arnos Vale. enforced. A number of national events, “Even the Commissioner e.g. the Bequia Easter Regatta, (Commissioner of Police) admitted and Vincymas, have been by DAYLE DA SILVA
cancelled since the first case of COVID-19 was recorded here in March 2020. Amplified music has been banned with the Ministry of Health advising that gatherings indoors have no more than 10 persons, and outdoor gatherings 20. But as of late, persons have not been adhering to the protocols. And even as the prime minister commented on the actions of the police, he cautioned that the police against being inconsistency. “You cannot tell people that certain amounts of people cannot be at one location on a Friday, but allow something else to happen on a Sunday,” he said, adding, “We have to make sure that we don’t drop the ball for too long on the COVID issue.”
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
“BUT I DON’T KNOW about it and all it will do is to take one telephone from me to relevant persons.” This was a clear indication of how the government bureaucracy works in essence, and it came directly from the Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. Dr. Gonsalves was moved into Lloyd Lynch, Head of summing up the the UWI SRC La situation when he called in from Cuba to Soufrière Monitoring Team, cited a hold up in Monday’s edition of obtaining permits to the ‘Eyeing La install equipment at Soufrière proramme as newly identified sites. aired no NBC radio, to give some explanations as to why it appeared there was an unnecessary delay in approving a request for permission (permits) to erect monitoring equipment/instruments, to be used in the ongoing monitoring of the La Soufriere volcano. Head of The UWI Seismic Research Centre monitoring team, Lloyd Lynch, Instrumentation Engineer, said on the progamme as referenced, that he had been in the country now going into three weeks, during which he made request for permission to set up monitoring stations at Walliabou, Greiggs Mountain and Fitz Hughes. He was still awaiting a response. The sites were chosen after helicopter flyover of La Soufriere on Wednesday January 5th. The team on the flyover, including Lynch, scouted possible new seismic station sites to better monitor the latest activity. The helicopter flight was arranged between the Government of SVG and the Government of France, through the Embassy of France to the Eastern Caribbean States, to Barbados and the OECS in Saint Lucia. Continued on Page 17.
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