THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 21-02-20

FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 21, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.08

Bally and Bally punished Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

Gov’t must be proactive Page 5

EC$1.50

Woman beater jailed Page 4

Vincy mas in T&T Page 15

T-Man languishing in Union Island Page 28

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE:

TOO MUCH SPECTATORSHIP

REV DR. CECIL RICHARDS, Pastor of the Kingstown Baptist Church, has expressed concern that too many people are staying on the sidelines or in their comfort zone, while this country experiences a surge in domestic violence and other crimes against women and girls.

Dr Richards’ concern came as he delivered a powerful address at a Rally at Heritage Square last Friday afternoon.

The Rally followed a March through Kingstown organized as part of activities to highlight the scourge of

gender-based violence.

“There is too much spectatorship. You hear me?

There is too much spectatorship for this issue that is destroying lives, that is destroying homes, that is destroying individuals. There is way too much spectatorship.

And, this event this evening is a very signal of the fact that there is really too much of this,” Dr Richards told the Rally which was dominated by women.

Interestingly, the event was held on Valentine’s Day — the day when couples especially attend various romantic, social activities such as dinners, or spend time quietly in romantic Rev Dr. Cecil Richards made no excuses for fingering the many who would denounce violence against our womEnfolk, but who did not see it worthwhile to attend Public March/Rally for the cause.

Right: Persons in the March – majority being women – marched to accompanying music by the Royal SVG Police Band.

settings.

Given what he perceived to be a low turnout to the March and Rally, Dr Richards asked whether a dinner was more important than showing support for women, who are victims of abuse and crime, and addressing the scourge confronting the nation.

“We walked along and there were so many people looking out their windows and so many people following along in their cars and tooting their horns; and so many people heading to their Valentine’s dinner as if that was more important than a broken home,” Dr Richards lamented.

He also took a dig at the politicians.

“Too much spectatorship

It was pleasing to see, the young ladies (including students) leading the March, Continued on Page 3. one bystander commented.

from the people who seek to represent you but are not here

2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 3.

News 3

Mediation: An alternative to the court

PERSONS ENTANGLED in disputes need not go through the courts to have their matters settled. They can use a ‘communitybased’ mediation process dubbed Alternative Dispute Resolution.

The facility, part of the larger Impact Justice Project whose mandate is to address deficiencies in the justice sector of CARICOM outside of those that are directly related to the judiciary and the courts, was launched at the Ministry of Health Conference Room last Tuesday.

Speaking at the launch, Attorney General Jaundy Martin described the justice system here as not just adversarial but costly, and welcomed the new measure as one which could prove beneficial to the entire

society.

He noted that while there are procedures that have to be complied with when dispensing justice, in some instances “innocent persons end up suffering,” and that poor people and sometimes “people who can’t speak well, could easily find themselves under the wheels of the system.”

It is within that context that Martin gave his stamp of approval to the implementation of the alternate form of resolving conflict.

The AG is convinced that the form of mediation which entails “looking at problems through the other person’s eye,” is something that “could benefit the society.”

Professor Velma Newton, Regional Project

Director/Impact Justice Project, “is satisfied” that the Alternative Dispute Resolution/ Mediation exercise is “in good hands.”

That assurance, she said, was predicated on the progress this country has made since accepting the new process, and in that regard, she praised the work that has been done by Mandella Peters and Cheryl Bailey, who have been trained as Community Mediators.

The initiative was endorsed by Justice Brian Cottle who welcomed its introduction to the community level.

Magistrate Zoila Ellis, while not sure of the extent of the Magistrate’s involvement, is supportive of the drive,

(L-R): Attorney General Jaundy Martin and Professor Velma Newton, Regional Project Director/Impact Justice Project both sold the ‘Mediation Process” as workable and necessary.

Right: Justice Brian Cottle endorsed the Alternative Dispute Resolution process. views it as a “win/win situation,” and “wishes that it goes from strength to strength.”

The Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice Project) was launched in 2014 with support to the tune of Can$20 million by the Government of Canada.

It was initially conceived to be a fiveyear project, but has since been extended to

Is Bally and Bally being punished?

“I AM ASKING NOW, if the signature on the security document was all that was required, why was Bally and Bally not allowed to sign the document?”

That was the question Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday posed in relation to the latest controversy surrounding the awarding of contracts by government.

Dr. Friday was at the time speaking at a press conference on Tuesday at the New Democratic Party’s Headquarters, Richmond Hill.

In 2019, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) declared misprocurement in the tendering process for the contract for the Yarabaqua River Defence Project, after Bally and Bally Investments Ltd., one of several bidders for the work, raised objections to the award of the contract.

CBD upheld Bally and Bally’s complaint, and found the breach serious enough to withdraw funding from the project, and asked the Government to repay monies drawn down for the 1,421,567( Vat inclusive) contact awarded to Reliable Construction Services Limited.

The Government undertook to fund the works, and continued

with Reliable Construction Services Limited as the contractee.

“Mr. Balcombe of Bally and Bally Investments Ltd. has once again complained that the tendering process is unfair in relation to another project,” said Dr. Friday, adding that this time around, the contract had to do with Coastal Defence works at Sans Souci.

Bally and Bally’s bid was rejected on the grounds of an unsigned bid security.

Dr. Friday also referred to Bally and Bally’s contention that the party to whom the contract was awarded was allowed to make certain corrections Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the and adjustments to their Opposition NDP, wants a thorough bid, even after they had investigation into the tendering submitted their bid. process in relation to Coastal Defence “My understanding of it is that the complaint should Works at Sans Souci. be investigated by the Yarabaqua River Defence bidding World Bank. If the complaint is fiasco, that led to the CDB found to be well-founded, this withdrawing its financing from would raise serious questions again about the tendering process that project.

“It is important that the matter in SVG,” continued Dr. Friday. be properly investigated to find a The NDP President also questioned whether the refusal to just and fair solution, and also to restore the integrity of the allow Bally and bally to sign the document was punishment for the tendering process in SVG,” declared Dr. Friday. (KH) company’s role in exposing the

run until March 2022.

It is being implemented from within the Caribbean Law Institute Centre, Faculty of Law, The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus.

(WKA)

Gender-based violence: Too much spectatorship Continued from Front page. this evening. Let me say that again — from the people who seek to represent you and are not here.

“I am not talking politics but I’m talking about those who gonna come and ask you for your vote and want you to stand for them and they are not here to stand for you. There is too much, way too much spectatorship — people who want to talk the talk but not willing to walk the walk,” he asserted.

He further stated: “So, I want you to go to your offices, I want you to go to your homes, I want you to go to the political constituency offices and everywhere, and say there has been too much spectatorship on this issue.”

As far as Dr. Richards was concerned, if a man and a woman are not willing to stand up for this cause that is hurting our nation, then they ought to be told, “You are a spectator and you are not contributing to the solution. If you are not contributing to the solution, you are a part of the problem.”

The March and Rally followed a series of vicious attacks on women in recent weeks, including the shooting death of Cuban-born nurse Arianna Taylor-Israel three weeks ago.

The Cuban national, married to Vincentian Mitchell Israel, and residing and working here for over a decade, was shot at the St Martin’s Secondary School where their son is a student.

Taylor-Israel’s husband has been arrested and charged with her killing. He is currently on remand at Her Majesty’s Prison.

Editor’s Note: THE VINCENTIAN has been reliably informed that there were at least two politically affiliated persons in attendance at last Friday’s Rally. They were Opposition Senator Israel Bruce and former Opposition Senator Zita Barnwell.

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4. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Cop retires after being charged

Arianna was gunned down shortly after 3 p.m. the same day, INTERNAL disciplinary charges on the compound of the St. were, last week, brought against a Martin’s Secondary School where police officer, in connection with she had gone to pick up her son. the January 30, 2020 shooting Billingy was in-charge of the death of Cuban Nurse Arianna Questelles Police Station at the Taylor-Israel. time of the incident. He was But the officer, Sergeant 70 charged under Section 17 of the Cleous Billingy, tendered his Police Act, Chapter 391 of the retirement with immediate effect Revised Edition of the Laws of St. after the charges were presented Vincent and the Grenadines 2009. to him.

Any officer guilty of this offence Speaking with THE could be fined, dismissed, VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, demoted, have their good conduct Commissioner of Police Colin badge forfeited, placed in a cell, John confirmed that disciplinary not exceeding 14 days, or be charges were brought against confined to a barracks, not Billingy for willfully disobeying an exceeding 28 days. order from a Senior Officer, to go Billingy had been a member of and confiscate the licensed the local constabulary in excess of firearm of Arianna’s husband 20 years. He worked Beat and Mitchell ‘Mitch’ Israel, and to Patrol, Special Service Unit arrest him for threatening her.

(SSU), and at a number of police The order was issued around stations, including Georgetown, midday on January 30.

Port Elizabeth, Bequia and

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Questelles.

When An order was asked for a given to comment, the confiscate Commissioner Mitchell Israel’s assured, “Once firearm on the a police same day he officer’s allegedly shot conduct falls his wife. below the standard of an efficient police officer, it is very likely that disciplinary charges will be brought.”

‘Mitch’ Israel, a 57-year-old former public servant of Questelles, was taken before the Serious Offences Court on February 3 charged with the murder of his wife Arianna Taylor-Israel, a 44-year-old Cuban national, employed here as a nurse.

The accused was not required to plea, and a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) is slated for May 18.

Woman beater jailed CHIEF MAGISTRATE Rechanne Browne has sent a clear message to men who physically abuse their spouses, or those who might do so in the future.

The signal came on Tuesday when she sentenced Jamaican national Warren Campbell to ten months in prison, for unlawfully and maliciously wounding his Vincentian common-law wife Isha Duncan, by punching her in the face.

Campbell, who has been living here for the past four years, is said to have come to these shores legally, but overstayed his time.

He pleaded guilty to the charge when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at

the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday.

The facts revealed that on February 13, Campbell and Duncan, who lived together in Barrouallie, had an argument which escalated into a physical altercation.

Warren Campbell Isha Duncan During the course of the found no leniency was at the from the court for the victim of altercation, Campbell abuse of his common- Warren punched her in the face, law partner.

Duncan’s resulting in an injury which abuse. took five stitches. including the He told the Court he was sorry January 30 for his action. shooting death of Cuban Nurse In handing down the penalty, Arianne Taylor-Israel. the Chief Magistrate stressed that Her husband Mitchell ‘Mitch’ the offence was extremely serious. Israel, 57-year-old former public The incident took place in the servant of Questelles, has been wake of a series of incidents here charged with the murder. (HH) involving violence against women,

Witness accuses police of threatening him DISLEY HARRY, the victim of a shooting incident at Keartons about five years and six months ago, has accused police officers of threatening and forcing him to give a statement in relation to the matter.

The Barrouallie fisherman, who was 26 at the time of the incident, made the allegation at the High Court Criminal Assizes on Monday, while giving evidence in the matter.

Orban Lampkin of Chateaubelair was charged with wounding Harry with intent and possession of a firearm with intent to injure.

Harry was reportedly shot in the upper right thigh in an incident at Keartons on August 26, 2014.

Harry, in his testimony, recalled that he got shot at Keartons, but said he could not remember how it happened, as it occurred so long ago.

“Tell us what you remember”, Crown Counsel Karim Nelson asked.

Continued on Page 27.

ÂToppaÊsÊ driver, conductor nabbed

J’LANNI DOUGLAS, the driver of the popular minibus ‘Toppa’, registration No. H3111, and his conductor Anthony Ames, were, last Wednesday, each fined $900 or nine weeks in prison, for overloading the bus.

The men were charged separately with allowing the bus, licensed to carry 18 passengers, to carry 27.

Douglas, a resident of Rockies, paid the fine forthwith and left the Serious Offences Court, while Ames asked Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne to give him time. He was ordered to pay $400 forthwith or four weeks, and $500 by March 13 or five weeks. Both men had pleaded guilty to the charge.

Sergeant Kenny Jones of the Police Traffic Department used the patrol car to intercept the bus which had diverted from the main and was travelling along the Murray’s Village/Rockies route.

Jones told the Court that some of the passengers were sitting on the laps of others, while some were tightly squeezed together.

The Chief Magistrate was appalled by what she heard.

“This is crazy,” she remarked.

“If anything happens, the Insurance only covers a certain number of people, and the traffic officers need to get serious with these things,” she declared.

She took the opportunity to send a stern warning to all minibus operators present.

“When it comes to jam-up and squeeze-up and sitting in people’s laps, you are playing with other criminal offences.”

Sergeant Jones told the Court that he had spoken to Douglas on several occasions. He noted that hours after this incident, Douglas overturned the vehicle at Villa.

Ames was charged under the Conductors Regulations while Douglas was charged under the Drivers Regulations.

They both state that a person could be fined not more than $1,500, and no less than $100, and imprisonment of 21 days. (HH)

Police Round-Up POLICE are investigating a report of Robbery and Wounding made by a 45-year-old Vendor of Arnos Vale, against two (2) unknown assailants.

According to investigations, the assailants allegedly robbed the virtual complainant of a Touch Screen Cellular Phone value $230.00ECC and $60.00ECC in cash.

In the process, the virtual complainant was also shot in his left leg. The incident occurred at Arnos Vale on 11.02.2020.

Investigations are also ongoing into a report of Robbery made by a 46-year-old Conductor of Redemption Sharpes against two (2) unknown masked men, on 12.02.2020.

The police reported that the masked assailant(s), armed with guns, allegedly robbed the virtual complainant of one (1) grey purse value $30.00ECC and containing $750.00ECC in cash, and one (1) gold Alcatel Cellular Phone value $200.00ECC. The incident occurred at Redemption Sharpes on 12.02.2020.

An Attempted Murder also occupies the police at this time.

They are investigating a report made by a 29-year-old Labourer of Glen against some unknown person(s), on 12.02.2020.

According to preliminary investigations, the assailant(s) allegedly with the intent to commit the offence of Murder, did an act which is more than merely

preparatory to the commission of the offence “by shooting him (Labourer) about his body with a gun”. The incident occurred at Glen on 12.02.2020.

The police are soliciting information that will aid with the arrest and prosecution of the offender(s) in the above matters.

Persons are asked to contact the Assistant Commissioner in charge Crime at 1784-456-1339 or the Officer in charge of the South Central Division at 1784-4584200 or any Police Station/ Officer that they are comfortable with. All information will be treated with strict confidence.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 5.

News

GovÊt ought to be more proactive

The coronavirus has thrown the global health system into near chaos.

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION Dr. Godwin Friday has knocked the government for what he says was poor public relations with respect ‘to the action taken against three persons returning from China.

Dr. Friday was discussing the matter as it related to news that broke over the weekend, that persons infected with the COVID19, or as it is commonly referred to as, the Corona virus 19, had been quarantined.

“The government really ought to have taken a more pro-active role going forward and inform the people,” Dr. Friday said on the February 17 edition of the New Times radio programme.

No Coronavirus cases, Browne affirms

Focus on Cane Garden Word spread last weekend that there were infected persons in St Vincent and the Grenadines, and that they were being quarantined at a house in Cane Garden.

The reference was to a house owned by a Chinese businessman who operates a restaurant in Kingstown, and is occupied by the owner, family members and a number of other individuals who all work at various Chinese restaurants here.

THE VINCENTIAN obtained a message that had been making its rounds on Social Media via ‘WhatsApp’.

The message made reference, inter alia, to “people from Cane Garden have de virus” and “some people in Cane Garden quarantine in ah dem house.”

According to Dr. Friday, the situation was one in which everyone had a right to be concerned. He, however, cautioned that it was important to ensure that a state of panic was not created.

In a release issued by the Ministry of Health on February 16, the assurance had been given that there were no cases of the dreaded COVID-19 virus here.

The release went on to state that the public had been informed of one individual who had returned from China on February 7, and had been quarantined for the recommended period of 14 days.

That individual was still under quarantine up to the time of the release being issued, and had shown no signs of being ill.

Since then, 16 other persons have been quarantined, following the return of three Chinese nationals who had returned from China, February 10.

The release indicated that they were checked twice daily by health care workers.

None of the three individuals who returned showed signs or symptoms of being infected with the COVID-19. However, on February 14, during one of the

Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition, expects Government to be more forthcoming with information, etc., with respect to the coronavirus situation. daily checks, it was discovered that one member of the household was found to have a low grade fever, and upon testing, it was discovered that the individual had Influenza B, or a form of the flu.

Denying information But the Leader of the Opposition remained adamant that, while there were no cases of the virus here, the issue was not something that the government ought to have been defensive about.

“They cannot be denying information from the public allowing rumours to spread and for a state of hysteria to develop,” Dr. Friday said.

“They ought to be showing leadership on it — what are the protocols in place for dealing with the situation? We have multiple

entries, we are an open country. It is known that the virus has spread to countries beyond China, so naturally they would be worried about it.”

It is important, according to Dr. Friday, that Government assures the people that it is doing everything that is possible, and be specific, detailed and appropriately timely about the information it disseminates.

(Stories by DD)

why the MINISTER OF Caribbean Public HEALTH Luke Health Agency Browne declared very says that,” he early in the scheme pointed out. of things, that there The were “absolutely no government was cases” of the not taking things coronavirus in St for granted, and Vincent and the the government Grenadines. had put its “house And in relation to in order”, he the cruise ship that added, even as he was allowed to dock disclosed that the here, with some 23 Caribbean region passengers showing had been signs of some identified as being respiratory illness, low risk .

Browne said it was Luke Browne, Minister As far as allowed to dock in of Health, is confident government’s other countries that government has action was before and after taken all reasonable concerned, coming to SVG. precautions in the Browne “And more than face of a coronavirus referenced the that, we took all threat. identification of precautions isolation centres consistent with the and the ramping up of regulation of public health surveillance at the various ports agencies, including PAHO and of entry, including the Argyle including the Caribbean Public Health Agency, in determining International Airport (AIA).

He was confident that the that that ship was safe for government had taken all the docking in St Vincent and the Grenadines,” he told Parliament reasonable precautions.

“But we cannot come up with during his contribution to the a response that is not Budget Debate. proportionate to the matter at According to the Health hand. The Ministry of Health, in Minister, there were a lot of distorted and misleading stories. respect to that matter, will continue to be vigilant, and we “We have to be responsible in will continue to beat back the discharge of our misinformation whenever it responsibilities with respect to arises,” Browne said. health, and there is a reason

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6. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

ÂWE CHOOSEÊ to stop gender-based violence

Nicolle Trudeau, Founder/Director of ‘We Chose’ is prepared to do her bit to influence a national strategy that will address the issue of genderbased/domestic violence.

Nicolle Trudeau first arrived in this country some 22 years ago as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

She did her mandatory 2 years of service in North Leeward, and then joined Marion House and served as a counsellor for the next seven years, after which she returned to her home in the USA. Five years ago, Nicolle returned to SVG, settling in Bequia. She has since successfully completed her Master’s degree in Public Sector Management from the University of the West Indies.

And from her desk in Bequia, Nicolle explained that her work now is motivated and informed by her experience as a counselor, and from the data she has collected from over 200 individuals here.

That experience and data relate in the main to gender-based violence/domestic violence, and that is the area of work which now occupies Nicolle’s time.

She has since formed a Bequiabased organization called ‘We Choose’, which works with children, female-led households and men.

And that work is moved by what she said is the majority view of those she has worked with, i.e. that if there were programmes or efforts to help reduce all forms of violence, particularly genderbased violence, that they would participate in such programmes.

Her work through ‘We Choose’ and her findings as recorded in her Master’s thesis, have led her to accept that emphasis on prevention was going to be the best strategy in dealing with the violence issue, especially given the infrastructural limitations of the society.

She explained that ‘We Choose’ is funded through Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), and that its focus is on training professionals, i.e. building capacity.

“So, we have been doing that for

about a year, and have raised independent funds for that through a variety of NGOs,” Trudeau continued.

She admits that more people, including men, are speaking out today on the issue of domestic and other forms of genderbased violence, but there needs to be a national strategy to deal with such issues.

According to Nicolle, there has been a lot of talk, but no one is putting together a national strategy, a strategy that has to hit legislation.

She has been working on implementing the changes that people keep speaking about.

“This is the hope, to put pressure by creating a plan and presenting it,” she said. (Stories by DD)

Sardine highlights domestic violence NICOLLE TRUDEAU, Founder and Director of ‘We Choose’, a Bequiabased organization committed to highlighting the issue of gender-based violence, recognized the importance of promoting positive choices and attitudes.

“We are trying to promote positive choices, and people can make positive choices. So, we try to highlight the positive changes being made by some,” she said.

One such expression was last Saturday’s crossing of the Bequia channel by Mark Sardine, in a kayak.

Sardine, a well-known local crusader on behalf of social causes and concerns here, said this crossing was done as his Mark Sardine and Nicolle Trudeau share a moment of satisfaction after Sardine had completed his way of speaking out crossing. against domestic violence.

“He could have stayed silent, but he Despite the windy conditions and is choosing to be an advocate and rough waters, Sardine said that he made his latest journey in 1 hour and making the choice to speak out against 40 minutes, leaving Indian Bay Beach domestic violence.”

And while it was commendable that around 7am and arriving on Bequia more persons were speaking up now around 8:40am. than up to 20 years ago, Trudeau Trudeau commended Sardine, reiterated that no one was looking at saying that he chose to take on the creating a national strategy. issue — “this is a choice he is making.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 7.

People

Fitzgerald Bramble is ready to return to offer effective representation to the people of East Kingstown and SVG. FORMER national goal keeper and diplomat, Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble is one step closer to replacing former Prime Minister and Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace as the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for the East Kingstown constituency.

This comes after Bramble, 52, was nominated by the East Kingstown NDP support group to be their candidate to contest the next general

Bramble poised to replace Eustace

elections. Bramble’s candidacy is expected to be ratified by the party’s Central Executive.

The announcement of Bramble’s candidacy was made by President and Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday, during a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Richmond Hill on Tuesday.

In making the announcement, Dr. Friday recognised Eustace as having represented the constituency since 1998, and he assured that, in due course, Eustace will be properly honored and recognized for his service.

The Opposition Leader, in a nod of approval for Bramble, stated,“I am confident that the Committee will ratify the constituency’s selection, and Mr. Bramble will be the new candidate for East Kingstown in the next general elections.”

He said that he had no reason to believe that the party’s highest decision-making body for candidate selection would not approval Bramble’s candidacy.

Bramble holds a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics

from Old Dominion University and is currently the Economic Development Coordinator for Estevan, the eighthlargest city in Saskatchewan, Canada, a post he has held since September 2017.

In an interview with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Bramble said that he was humbled by the confidence shown in him.

“I just want to say that this is a very humbling opportunity for me. I am very grateful that the people of East Kingstown and the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines have reposed their confidence in me and have expressed their desire for me to be the NDP candidate in the upcoming general election for East Kingstown,” said the former Minister Counsellor/Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United States.

Bramble said that he was happy for the opportunity to be part of the NDP team that is ready and able to set SVG on a course guided by an effective developmental party.

He admitted, though, that, “I think

that the divisiveness (among the people) is really making our challenge for development and moving forward even greater”.

The former goal keeper said that he wants to be a part of the team that would bridge the divide.

As to what inspired him to seek candidacy for the NDP, he confessed that the NDP motto of ‘One People, One Nation, One Vincy’ resonated with him.

He promised to do his best to “provide effective and meaningful representation to the people of East Kingstown and the people of SVG.” (KH)

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8. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 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

A virus of another kind THE ONLY REAL REVOLUTION of our time, i.e. late 20th early 21st centuries, is the World Wide Web (www).

The www has changed the dynamics of information transmission — not only how fast the information is transmitted, but more significantly, how far. The world has indeed become a global village because of the www.

But if truth be told, all across the www, facts mingle with half-truths and untruths creating factitious informational of a myriad of blends.

Those blends drive social interaction, political systems, repercussions of all sorts, but most of all have become a bedrock of speculation.

But lest we become immaturely judgemental, the www is not sufficient alone for spreading misinformation, but because of its widespread availability and use, it leads the agenda for traditional media which, once upon a time, was the bastion of truth and the first stop for information. Sadly, but admittedly, the www — and its gamut of social media — has replaced, if not gradually moving towards replacing, the role of traditional media.

Sadly, though, the www is now a home to rumour and speculation.

Rumour, they say is ‘information/a story that is passed from person to person but has not been proven to be true’.

Speculation, they say, ‘is ideas or guesses about something that is not fully known’.

We can take it, given the above, that rumour is meant to be or has all the requirements to cause mischief, which can be of deliberate mind and intent. Simply put, it is what ‘unschooled persons’ accept as truth.

Speculation, on the other hand, can be made in all good intention and is different from a rumour, as it is a guess work based on some information, whereas rumours are baseless.

That is why those who have (or think they have) the authority to threaten and jail persons, must guard against rushing into to declare www postings on a certain issue as being all baseless and the

work of rumourmongers.

Whether it be rumour or speculation, they both arise from a situation of lack of information, and can be avoided if truthful and relevant information is readily shared and updated.

The situation is worsened, a la so many instances here in SVG, in the midst of accusations flying here, there and everywhere, when the information that should have been forthcoming in the first place, is disclosed only after rumour and speculation hold court on the www.

How can anyone threaten to take action against those they would deem detractors and ready to create panic, when the real situation is one of a lack of information on which sound decisions can be made and therefore, avoid both rumour and speculation?

Now, there is no excuse for persons who go out of their way to deliberately stir up panic and unnecessary discomfort. But those who would strike these persons down must, if they are to be credited with any more common sense that those they are wont to denigrate, must first determine what it is that gives rise to this rumour mill.

And in that vein, this publication must ask why is there a sense that those in authority consider information that should be in the public domain, to be their personal guarded secrets?

Is everything in this country a matter of national security, and therefore those who tread perilously close to the truth must be castigated and demonized as threats to that security?

Whose security are some of these issues that have been ventilated on the www threatening?

Is the course set for this country now being powered by Paranoia?

Paranoia breeds secrets and secrets, breed speculation in any country, moreso one in which information is guarded with ‘precious’ care.

So much is shrouded in secrecy that the citizens of this country, who are essentially the shareholders, have no clue as to what exactly is happening, not even what their management costs are.

Cricket highlights in Grammar School in the Mid 1960s THIS IS THE FIRST ARTICLE on sport as promised: another 4 or 5 will follow, but after a break of 3 weeks for articles specifically relating to national heroism.

"By 1954, the Kingstown Cricket Club KCC had dominated the local game, having won the Fraser Neckles Cup from the late forties on the trot.

However, by 1954, the Grammar School had put together a team that could give the KCC a run for their money. I think that it is safe to say that after more than forty years in the business from 1908, the Grammar School had put most of its weaknesses behind it.

It had begun, for instance, to select teams not overly based on the sixth form, living in Kingstown or Game Master dominance. An example of sixth form hegemony (not only in cricket) was their continuing control of the captaincy. And in 1952, on the tour to Grenada, they had deliberately made one of their number John Iton vicecaptain of cricket, so that he went to Grenada and did not participate in a single activity or event, especially his forte cricket, for which he had not a clue.

The 1954 team of fourteen had a wide geographical spread. There were five members from the capital city and four from the second town Georgetown area: they were Eddie Griffith, Carl Glen, Alphonso Roberts, Cammie King and I. And captain Melvin Cuffy, Ken Boyea, Raymond Liverpool and Ian Hadley.

Two from Leeward, Lester Huggins

Layou and Venol Charles Barroulie.

Eardley Stephens and Ayrton Clouden Villa-Rathomill and Lawrence Collymore from Evesham.

The entire front row in our paragraph are deceased: the middle three of Headmaster William Marcus Lopey "the Don" flanked on his right by DeputyHead Mr. Fitz Gordon of Guiana, on the left by Eugenio Moore of T&T, Games as well as Cadet Master.

The two boys seated left are Eardley Stephens, Vin Cuffy, (with cup) Alphonso Roberts and Eddie Griffith.

The middle-row: Venold Charles then Ian Hadley (both dead), Carl Glen, Raymond Liverpool (dead), Kenneth John, Cammie King, Ormston Ken Boyea.

The Back-row: Ayrton Clouden, Lawrence Collymore (dead) and Lester Huggins.

KCC comprised three Bonadie brothers, Leon (Congo), Cayley and Burns (not the politician-trade unionist), opening batsman Eldon Bramble and Lawrence Ferris (Bullock), A Howe, St Clair Warner, Sylvester (Wig) Noel, Clement Lawrence, George Hinds and Aurin Seymour. For his tremendous Continued on Page 22.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 9.

Letters

Gender-based violence

REGARDLESS of how certain people want to put a spin on things here, I want them to deny that there has not been an upsurge in gender-based violence in this small country of ours.

And the truth is that this gender-based violence is a case of men taking a toll on their womenfolk… some even going as far as to shoot them.

And with this upsurge, I offer my humble view on why this is taking place.

It is high time that we admit we have not been bringing up our menfolk with values and respect for themselves. If this is not done, how can we expect men to respect other men and the female sex?

You see, women are by nature soft and gentle, and because men have not been taught to respect women for what they are, they see this softness and gentleness as weakness, and take advantage of them… even beating them when they (men) don’t get what they want.

For all those men who feel they have good jobs and have women being dependent on them,that is no excuse to take advantage of your women.

Money without principle breeds danger.

Too many of our men claim they are ready for love and a family, but they don’t even know who they really are. They are actors… putting on a good face when it matters.

Unless men find out who they really are, and come to terms with all their bad tendencies and attitudes, especially their attitude of looking down on women, we will have a lot more of this battering of women by men.

It is high time we men wake up and accept that we are not superior to our women, and that they are not footballs to be kicked around when and how we feel like.

Charles, Edinboro

Rescue of boys I HAVE two sons. One of them wants to be an engineer and I have no doubt, once I keep him on the straight and narrow, that he will fulfil his ambition.

But you know, Mr. Editor, with what he sees around him, especially among boys his own age group, he is already saying in no way he is coming back here. We’ll see how that works out.

Recently, I was in Kingstown around 9:00 pm and I noticed three boys dressed in their school uniform liming. Can’t say they were smoking or drinking anything, but the shock of them being in town at that time, in their uniforms, really took a toll on me.

I couldn’t help but wonder where were their parents, and if their parents knew where they were.

I wanted to ask these three young men what they were doing in town that night, but the way things seem to be going in this country, I changed my mind.

Mr. Editor, it is clear that a lot of the crime here is committed by young men, some of them nothing but boys. If this is an indication of lack of parental control, then we can understand how and why our boys might be drawn into a world of crime.

We need, Mr. Editor, a rescue mission for our boys.

And regardless of which side of the political fence you’re on, I support the Opposition on the need for a revival and transformation that they are promoting in their Redemption Charter.

Andre

Bits of paper lying on the floor SCHOOL CLOSURE because of rat infestation and the general untidiness across some areas of our country, indicate that we are not teaching and modeling values of cleanliness that we should esteem.

The persons best suited for keeping an area clean are those who use or occupy the area.

This means that owners of businesses and lands adjoining roadways should be responsible for keeping them clean.

Athletes would also keep playing fields clean, and

students would keep their school clean.

Children deserve to learn in a safe, clean and orderly environment.

They have a right to a clean classroom and a school in good repair. At the same time also, students should not be denied the learning opportunity and responsibility of keeping their school clean.

Schools overrun by rats may be an indicator that much food is available for them. Keeping the school and its surroundings clean is the

Stop the abuse!!

THE RECENT killing of Nurse Taylor-Israel has brought to the fore the abuse that many ladies endure on a regular basis. It is rather unfortunate that so many ladies allow themselves to be abused by a man.

We know that physical abuse is the last form of abuse.

Usually it is preceded by verbal abuse, sometimes ends tragically as in the case of this nurse.

It is important that ladies choose their partners wisely. The choice should be based on the character of the individual. It is true that a lady may not be able to detect the abusiveness in her partner until maybe sometimes years down the road. However, it is good to do a background check of the man, especially if he is not someone of whom the lady has a fair knowledge.

Sometimes a person might not have a history of abusiveness, but could develop it later during the course of the relationship.

As said above, the first act of abusive behaviour is verbal abuse, and when this continues on a regular basis, it signals danger.

A lady should walk away from that

relationship.

Admittedly, this is easier said than done, not least because children might come into the mix. The lady then finds it hard to walk away for the sake of the children, and stays on in the hope that change will take place.

Then there are economic reasons that would tie a woman to a man, and thus she endures his abusiveness.

I call upon us as men to respect ladies. They ought to be treated with love. They are not a man’s property. So, when dispute arises, abuse is not the way to deal with it. That is why it is important that there be communication, trust and love.

I call upon us as men to stop the abuse and I also encourage ladies to find the strength and courage to walk away from abusive relationships.

Most of all, let us put God in our lives and let Him control our anger.

If Christ is in our lives and homes, then incidents of abuse will be minimal. Let us build our homes on Christ.

May God bless this nation.

Kennard King

responsibility of everyone who occupy the school.

Refuse at school should be carefully handled by placing in appropriate specialized containers: 1. Waste foods collected in buckets and used to feed animals; 2. Plastic bottles placed in a special bin for recycling; 3. Paper and any other biodegradable materials collected and put in the school’s compost heap.

Keeping clean our homes, roadways, business places, schools,

and our country generally, is our collective task. Everyone must do his or her part.

There would always be a role for the professional janitors, but we can all benefit from practising cleanliness.

Anthony Stewart, PhD

Response to Jomo Hi Jomo, THANK YOU for being a fearless advocate and a truth teller. The revelations made in your column are alarming and scary. Clearly, there is little regard for financial compliance by the ULP government. What is the use of presenting a budget, if they are simply going to outspend it with special warrants while keeping the public and opposition in the dark?

I thought that special warrants needed to be brought to the House for approval. PM Gonsalves has the votes for anything he wants in the House.

The lack of transparency is proof to me that they are fully aware that they are acting irregularly.

Unfortunately, I have little hope that Vincentians will hold them accountable.

But they say all that is needed for the bad guys to win is for the good guys to do nothing. Thanks for being one of the good guys.

Sphaynes

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10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Grenadines Development and State-owned Enterprises

Illegal abuse of the overdraft, lawless government!

(Excerpts from the 2020 Budget Address)

(Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press Statement)

Introduction

THE ULP GOVERNMENT has demonstrated over the years, that it has little or no regard for our laws governing financial accountability and financial management. The Minister of Finance has disregarded financial accountability.

He has disregarded the law in the way he has abused the use of Special Warrants by not bringing them to Parliament in a timely manner (up to 5 years late): by exceeding the limit set by Parliament; and by paying for things that could have been properly budgeted for and were not unforeseen as required by law.

I wish to address another example– an extremely serious matter– of the way the Minister and his government have disregarded the laws that authorize government borrowing. Specifically, I wish to address the government’s illegal use of the overdraft. The use of overdraft “borrowing” is allowed by law. Each year, as part of the Budget exercise, at the end of the debate and approval of the Estimates, the Minister of Finance moves a Resolution to seek Parliament’s approval to “borrow” money for the Government by way of fluctuating overdraft to meet the Government’s current financial needs.

I set out the legal authority for this below.

The moving of the Resolution normally does not require any debate, as it is simply the means of financing the Estimates that was already debated and passed by the House. In other words, it is expected that the Government would seek approval from Parliament to borrow money as already discussed and passed in the House as part of the Estimates and Budget debates.

The Opposition does not normally raise any additional objections to the Resolution, as the financing of the Budget would have been thoroughly debated already, and the overdraft facility is to enable smooth implementation of the Budget, broadly speaking. The only thing that might cause some concern or even debate, is when the amount to be borrowed in this way (i.e. by overdraft) is increased from the amount set in the previous year, and the Opposition is concerned about it.

The Resolution is stated in the following terms: “Be it resolved that this Honourable House do authorize the Minister of Finance to borrow by means of fluctuating overdraft or otherwise from First Caribbean Bank, or the RBTT Bank Limited, or the Bank of Nova Scotia, or the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, money to an amount not exceeding in the aggregate fifty million dollars, during the period 1st January, 2019 to 31st December, 2019 for the purpose of meeting the current requirements of the Government.”

This borrowing, as with all borrowings of the Government, is provided for by law, and therefore must be done in accordance with the law giving that authority.

The law supporting borrowing by the Government, including the overdraft borrowings, is set out in Sections 44 and 45 of the Finance Administration Act. This is what that statute law says:

Grenadines development

infrastructure with residents of the Grenadines, in particular.

THE GOVERNMENT is committed to The Grenadines are unique, further enhancing the quality of life and collectively and individually. The developmental potential of the islands of the Grenadines have played Grenadines. As such, Budget 2020 an outsized role in attracting foreign targets the Grenadines with significant resources in the education, environment, direct investment, creating safety, health, and tourism sectors. These employment and generating wealth.

The true extent of the Grenadines’ investments, coupled with scheduled contribution to our economy is work on roads and infrastructure, simultaneously underreported and represent over $20 million in capital underutilized, due to the persistent expenditure on the islands of Bequia, data gathering and revenue collection Canouan, Mayreau and Union Island. challenges. However, as Budget 2020 The terminal buildings in the makes clear, the Government values Bequia, Canouan and Union Island Airports will be refurbished to the tune and cherishes the unique character and contribution of the Grenadines — of $1.3 million in 2020, while the not as little sister islands in our Canouan Airport runway will receive archipelago, but as powerful engines of $2.8 million in rehabilitation. Budget growth, employment and development.

2020 allocates $1.5 million for demolition and redesign of the Mary State-owned Enterprises Hutchinson Primary School on Union Island. The Bequia Community High State-owned enterprises, are, School is part of the CDB school ultimately, instruments of government rehabilitation programme, and the policy that contribute tangibly to the Bequia Technical Institute is one of strategic development of our economy. four technical and vocational centres In addition to employment and service that will be rehabilitated in 2020. delivery, the commercial, or selfSecondary schools on Bequia and Union Island are part of a nine-school financed bodies among our State$2.5 million programme to provide new owned enterprises make significant capital investments. These capital computer equipment, which will be investments often go unacknowledged used to administer new computerbased assessments from the Caribbean in Budget Speeches, but represent powerful drivers of growth, Examinations Council.

In addition to opening the Mayreau development and economic transformation. solar plant in 2020, work will In 2020, the Saint Vincent commence on the 2.5 megawatt solar farm in Bequia, which is partly funded Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC), by a US$10 million loan from the Abu the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA), the National Dhabi Fund for Development. Bequia will also see the completion of the $1.7 Lotteries Authority (NLA), the Saint million satellite warehouse for disaster Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority (SVGPA), the Housing & preparedness under the RDVRP Land Development Corporation programme, as well as a state of the (HLDC), the National art water desalination facility, to Telecommunications Regulatory which Budget 2020 allocates $4.8 Commission (NTRC), the National million in funding. The Union Island Insurance Services (NIS) and the satellite warehouse, a $1.6 million National Properties Ltd (NPL) will facility, will be completed in the spend significant resources on their coming weeks. This year, the CWSA capital programmes. The cumulative will spend $1.5 million upgrading the capital programme of those entities for Port Elizabeth water supply system. fiscal year 2020/21 is projected to Further, the NIS will spend $1.8 million in 2020 to establish an office in exceed $46 million.

For example, among the $24.5 Union Island. As mentioned earlier, Budget 2020 also provides $300,000 for million that VINCLEC has budgeted in the design of a sustainable solution to 2020 capital expenditure are investments of $7 million in generating challenge of rapid erosion at Salt Whistle Bay in Mayreau. Additionally, capacity at Cane Hall, $2.5 million for a new battery system and $2 million health facilities in Bequia, Mayreau on transmission and distribution line and Union Island will be refurbished upgrade. The CWSA’s planned capital and upgraded.

The Government will also establish works include over $3.6 million in water storage improvements and a police substation in Mayreau and transmission pipeline upgrades, as upgrade the infrastructure at the well as a $1.5 million investment in Canouan Coast Guard sub-base. The improving water supply in Bequia.

Government is also partnering with the major private investors and NGOs Similarly, the National Lotteries Authority will spend in excess of $7 in the Grenadines to ensure that they million on the construction of new meet their commitments to enhance sporting facilities, a comprehensive the local communities of the maintenance programme, and other Grenadines. capital investments. As discussed The Canouan investors, the elsewhere, the 2020 capital programme Mustique Company and a host of environmental NGOs on Union Island of the NIS includes $3.2 million worth of land development at Peter’s Hope have continued to support education, and the $2.5 million commercial the environment and village development of the Ju-C property in enhancement. These public-private Kingstown. partnerships will continue in 2020, to As such, the combined capital the benefit of the Grenadines’ residents expenditure of the Central and visitors.

Government and local State-owned Recently, the CARCIP project enterprises in 2020 is budgeted in facilitated the connection of many excess of $356 million. By any Grenadine islands to a high speed measure, this is a transformative undersea fibre-optic cable. This is capital injection in the context of potentially transformative. Many of Vincentian economic development. the challenges that Grenadines’ New legislation designed to enhance residents encounter in their the oversight of state-owned interactions with the State enterprises, discussed elsewhere in the bureaucracy can be addressed by technology. So too can countless other Budget Speech, will add greater levels of transparency to the crucial features of relative remoteness or isolation. We look forward to exploring developmental work that these entities regularly conduct. the potential of the CARCIP

44. Authorisation of debt.

No money shall be raised on the

credit of the Government except under the authority of this or another Act of Parliament or of a resolution of the House of Assembly. (45).

Short-term borrowing (1) The Minister may in a financial year, when authorised by resolution of the House of Assembly, borrow money to meet current requirements from a bank or other financial institution by means of advances to an amount not exceeding in the aggregate the sum specified in the resolution.

(2) A resolution referred to in Subsection (1) shall have effect for a period not exceeding twelve months.

(3) The power to borrow money by means of advances from a bank or other financial institution conferred on the Minister by resolution in accordance with this section or in pursuance of an Act may be exercised by means of a fluctuating overdraft.

Simply put, this provision in s.45 is to cover the gap between expenditure outflows and the revenue inflows of Government, since these do not usually move in sync with one another, in order to meet “current requirements.”

A critically important feature of this facility or borrowing, is the limiting of the Government’s borrowing power to one year. This is stated clearly in subsection 45(2) of the FAA when it says that the resolution authorizing the borrowing “…shall have effect for a period not exceeding twelve months”. This is then reflected in the usual Resolution of the House by specifying in that Resolution (seen above) that the overdraft borrowings are only for the period 1st January to 31st December of the year in which the resolution is passed or covers (i.e. the year that the Estimates cover). We just passed one in the House for the year 2020.

In other words, such borrowing is intended to be cleared (repaid) by the end of the financial year. It is not intended to add to the overall stock of public debt, as additional borrowings of the Government. Those borrowing that finance government programs and become part of the stock of public debt are already provided for in the Estimates and Budget.

The annual budget is the framework through which the various aspects of the financial management and control are performed. The underlying principle is to manage the two flows of income (recurrent revenues) and spending (recurrent expenditures) within the approved budget for a given financial year, as provided for in the Appropriation Act and the Finance Administration Act. Think of them, if you like, as guardrails that are intended to prevent any administration that is for the time being running the country’s affairs from borrowing recklessly and doing as it pleases without the knowledge of Parliament and the people the Parliament represent.

This is why the Minister must come to Parliament to seek approval for all borrowings the Government wishes to incur. This is where the public scrutiny and oversight take place.

And this is where the Government has failed.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 11.

Views

The malady of self-delusion

Dem damned lawyers and free speech

“It is difficult for men in high office to avoid the malady of self-delusion.

They are always surrounded by worshipers. They are constantly, and for the most part sincerely, assured of their greatness.” - John Calvin “How Aggressive Narcissism Explains Coolidge (1872–1933) 30th US Lance Armstrong”, noted that it was president, 1923-9, upon President difficult to feel much compassion for Harding’s death.

Armstrong as he fell from grace following the disclosures of his drugIT IS INTERESTING AND ENCOURAGING enhanced record-breaking to observe how many of our young performances. people are hungry for information that Some readers may need to be will aid them in making informed reminded that Armstrong was the decisions. This is not only related to road racing cyclist who became career choices. Many are curious to notorious for the biggest doping learn about the principles that will keep scandal in cycling history. He began them along the narrow moral highway competing as a triathlete at age 16, rather than gravitating toward the and was a national sprint-course mirage of “success” via corrupt means. triathlon champion in 1989 and 1990.

They despise the duplicity that they Dr. Burgo described Armstrong as observe in many of the older generation being given to persistent lying and who appear not to practise what we bullying. He noted that the worldpreach. They are irritated by the famous cyclist was arrogant and was hypocrisy that is readily visible in many indifferent to the feelings of others. of the leaders in our homes, churches, Dr. Burgo asserted that, “A lust for institutions of higher learning, business money, for fame, or for victory -- these places, parliament, and the community are the main motivations the world in general; leaders whose lives reflect a has assigned to Lance Armstrong malady of self-delusion; persons in high following his revelations during the office who appear to be so intoxicated Oprah interview and his dubious mea with power and greed that they culpa. Yet these explanations, though wrongfully presume that they can do thoughtful and widely shared, don't and say anything and not suffer any fully account for his propensity to lie, setback. Our youth now demand better no matter what the cost to others who of us. And we, inspired by their zest, challenge him, in order to achieve must rise to the occasion and victory and preserve his heroic selfsimultaneously bring them (the youth) image.” and our society to a higher level of This desire to win at all costs has morality and modesty. infected athletes, academics, Leaders, especially those in politics, politicians, and business leaders. The must forever seek to secure and retain malady (illness) of self-delusion has a sense of humility and “humanness”. resulted in many individuals seeking Pride and arrogance appear to so to achieve their goals through easily grasp and stifle so many of our deception and dishonesty. However, leaders. Often encouraged by their today’s technological advances now worshippers (and sometimes selfmake it relatively easy to reveal and seeking supporters), they too readily unravel the dishonesty of many of the fall prey to the darker side of human individuals who have succumbed to nature, and portray character traits the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the that destroy the moral fabric of our eyes, and the pride of life; ushered to society. But it does not have to be the dark side for filthy lucre or fame; this way. Leaders can be civil and falling prey to the malady of selfkind. Leaders can be gentle and delusion. caring. Leaders should not be deemed As we go through life, we are all weak or ineffective when they cautioned to avoid the lure of selfdemonstrate concern for others. delusion; that temptation to think Society will forever be fortified by that we are better and more powerful leaders in business, government, and than others; that quest to win at all society, who demonstrate empathy, costs. In addition, we do have a honesty, and humility. These are the responsibility to intercept the ones who will be fortified against the thoughts of those around us who malady of self-delusion. appear to be gravitating to such Plato, the Athenian philosopher thoughts and behaviours. In so many and founder of the Platonist school of instances, self-delusion appears to be thought in Ancient Greece, once said, twinned with self-destruction.

“Those who tell the stories rule We are encouraged to see ourselves society.” We need only review the as who we really are … and not be so proliferation of news (and fake news) caught up with impressing others to on many of the Internet platforms, to the point where we fall prey to the understand and appreciate how malady of self-delusion. We should accurate this statement remains in create and nurture such a positive our modern world. We observe, read self-image that, regardless of our about, and view video recordings of shortcomings and faults, we are individuals who, intoxicated by the comfortable with our true selves and need to win at all costs, deceive avoid the temptations to have inflated themselves into thinking that “the egos and pride. Humility, empathy, end justifies the means”. They delude and the general love for mankind are themselves into believing that success considered useful and affective should be achieved at any cost. antidotes to the malady of selfThe American cyclist Lance delusion.

Edward Armstrong fell prey to such debilitating thoughts. The Send comments, criticisms & psychologist and author, Dr. Joseph suggestions to Burgo, in his 2013 article entitled julesferdinand@gmail.com

‘The first thing we do, let's kill all the lawyers.’

William Shakespeare King Henry VI Part 2.

‘Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens too grievous to be borne.’

Jesus The Bible, Luke 11. 46.

‘He is no lawyer who cannot take two sides.’

Charles Lamb ‘The power of the lawyer is in the uncertainty of the law.’

Jeremy Bentham ‘THE WORLD has its fling at lawyers sometimes, but its very denial is an admission. It feels, what I believe to be the truth, that of all secular professions this has the highest standards.’

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. In yet another budget address, PM Gonsalves, himself lawyer and the father of 3 children who are lawyers, took a swing at lawyers who, according to him, are cheating the system by paying little or no taxes. Lawyers, we were told, owe about $11 million in taxes; some refuse to pay over to the government the VAT which they collected.

One is compelled to wonder why is our Prime Minister always picking on lawyers and not other professionals: doctors, engineers, architects or big business executives. Afterall, the country was alerted to the criminal behavior of the moneyed class when the Comptroller of Inland Revenue disclosed that over $300 million dollars was owed by delinquent taxpayers.

Why then don’t we hear how much is owed by doctors, engineers or this or that business house or executive? Or how much VAT they have not paid?

Have readers ever wondered why the PM consistently picks on lawyers?

Before we go to the answer, let’s clear the air. This is no defense of lawyers.

All those persons who refuse to pay their fair share of taxes should be brought to heel. And we know that the Inland Revenue Department uses a multiplicity of measures and methods to get our people to comply with our tax laws. We know as well that most citizens don’t like to pay taxes. We know too that every citizen wants the best roads, schools and health services. So, the less taxes we pay, the fewer services the country will be able to afford.

We are at one with Oliver Wendell Holmes, the former US Supreme Court Justice, when he declared his support for the payment of taxes with the following: ‘I love paying taxes because with my taxes I buy civilization.’

For our part, we have sued at least two lawyers who were accused by clients of cheating them out of substantial sums of money. Had it not been for timidity of other clients, we could have sued more lawyers thus breaking the wall of secrecy and complicity in the fraternity. Therefore, this is no defense of lawyers’ greed.

However, the nagging and troubling question resurfaces each time the PM demands the private files of citizens(lawyers) and singled them out for negative commentary and the wrath of the public. Why pick on lawyers when the ULP has historically been a party of lawyers. Ole Labour had Milton Cato, Arthur Williams, Grafton Isaacs, St Clair Dacon, Arthur Woods el al to current coterie of Gonsalves and his son, Camillo, Saboto, Carlos James,

Rochel Forde. Though not yet called to the bar, even Debbie Charles and Luke Browne sport law degrees.

So, what’s the PM’s obsession with lawyers? He presented the answer during the budget debate. He told the nation that there are some lawyers who go to court, turn away from judge and jury, look to the gallery and play politician. By this statement, we can clearly glean that our PM is primarily opposed to those lawyer politicians who talk against his government.

The clear and distinct lesson from PM Gonsalves’ budgetary assault is as follows: Keep your damn mouth shut. If you play politician and make critical comments against me or my government, I will do all to turn the public against you and shame you. So, shut up.

Now we know that Hitler despised Communists, Jews, Homosexuals, Blacks and Gypsies. We also know that Europeans hate Africans, running from the mayhem created by European destabilizers on the African continent, coming to their countries. We also know too that Trump scorns and loves to hate Muslims and Hispanics fleeing American imposed dictators in Latin America.

We know as well that scapegoating may serve the narrow interest of a leader or party, but it is never in the interest of most people or the nation.

Therefore, all patriots must raise their voices against the infantile attacks against lawyers. Beware: Angela Davis was correct in saying ‘If they come for me in the morning, they will come for you at night.’ It is unbecoming and irresponsible for the leader of any country to resort to crassness to make a point about nonpayment of taxes.

Rather, the Inland Revenue Department should reinvigorate its efforts to collect from all tax cheats and delinquents.

Rosa Luxenberg correctly noted that ‘Freedom for the majority, those in government, is no freedom at all.

Democracy is judged by the tolerance and respect for minority views and opinions.’ We dare to add contrarian, half baked, and even wrong ideas should all be allowed to contend allowing for settlement in the proverbial ‘marketplace of ideas.’

If PM Gonsalves is allowed to continue to unleash these improper verbal attacks against one set of tax delinquents and not others, it may cause a chilling effect on free speech and association in this country. The trend is troubling. At his Party’s 25 anniversary rally, PM Gonsalves barked this command to his supporters ‘All renegades, turn coats and castaways are dead…politically.’ Last Tuesday, Julian Francis called on ULP supporters to stone persons who mount political platforms in opposition to the governing party.

Right-thinking Vincentians know that these statements about lawyers are intended to chill speech. Those about death and stones are reckless incitement to violence. We forget the 1994 election cycle when political violence ripped through the land, to our eternal regret.

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

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12. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Opposition weak - a monumental waste of time

ACCORDING to Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc. MBA, the NDP is very weak and this weakness is undermining the democracy of SVG. For a country’s democracy to be secure, a strong opposition is needed to hold the government to account.

However, since 2001, what has the opposition NDP regime actually done?

They have done nothing of significance and are just picking up a salary for doing very little.

Part of the job of the opposition is to run the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The PAC is meant to scrutinise government spending and generally hold the government to account for the delivery of public services.

Since 2001, the NDP has failed to run the PAC and properly scrutinise the government’s spending of public funds. The Director of Audit had made several complaints about the nonfunctioning of the PAC, as under section 75 (2) of the SVG 1979 Constitution, saying it weakens parliamentary control and is a source of frustration of the audit exercise.

In SVG, we have a weak opposition,

prosperity.

The very weak NDP is not putting and that has contributed to our weak would manage and invest public funds. pressure on the useless ULP regime to economy. Under Eustace, the NDP was The NDP has failed to put forward a stimulate economic growth in SVG, weak. Now, under Friday, they are coherent and detailed financial and and deal with the on-going slum even weaker. The NDP has been worse economic strategy, capable of moving economic environment. The NDP is not than useless, and one wonders if they SVG out of slum and into prosperity. earning their salt and just picking up should repay their salary for failing to They lack competence in finance. a monthly salary. It is hard to believe be a good opposition and do their job The NDP has been a monumental they have the ability to move the properly. waste of time. country forward.

Since becoming leader, Friday has Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal A Green government would abolish not advanced one significant idea that strongly contends that the NDP is not the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 and could bring prosperity to SVG. The a fighting unit by any yardstick. They make the super-rich foreigners of NDP’s main idea is to sell-off SVG give the impression that they are very Mustique and Canouan pay tax and passports and our country to rich happy being in opposition and doing customs duties and impose a ‘windfall foreigners under a Citizenship by very little, as long as they can pick up tax’ on them too. This will give SVG a Investment Programme. This is a their salary every month. massive amount of revenue - EC$3 brainless idea.

The NDP regime has failed to come billion - to create economic growth in How can one trust Friday or vote for out and tell the people if they would SVG. the NDP when Friday has failed to tell abolish the customs duty and tax We would also take back our SVG our people exactly what his party exemptions given to the super-rich, Atlantic Ocean tuna fishing licence would do to create a strong economy white foreigners of Mustique and from Taiwan and set up SVG’s own and prosperity for the people? He has Canouan. Why are they not calling out billion-dollar tuna fishing and canning been leader for over 3 years, but the these persons? industry. This fish industry would quiet man is keeping fairly quiet. Does It is hard to see why people would provide thousands of jobs and bring in this illustrate that he has no idea how vote for the NDP in the next general millions of dollars in revenue. We to create a strong economy in SVG? election in SVG. They have very weak would cut ties with Taiwan and create Throughout all the years since 2001 leadership and fail to show that they ties with China and form a bilateral as the official opposition, the NDP has have the competence to create a strong trade agreement with China that will failed to put forward one budget to the economy and move SVG into help SVG businesses trade abroad. people of SVG, to show how they

Reviewing the movie ‘The Odds’ CARIWOOD PRODUCTIONS hosted the premiere of their first full length Vincentian movie ‘The Odds’, at the Methodist Church Hall, Kingstown, St. Vincent, Friday 1st November 2019.

This engaging romance, a 120minute production brought to life by local settings, crew and cast, had the audience quite captivated.

The movie, written, directed and produced by Emmanuel Okeniyi, is a love story featuring protagonist Jerry (Seth Greaves), his worthy heroine Becky (Campatra Welcome), Bob (Paul Stevens) the antagonist and Jerry’s abusive father, and his loving mother ‘Miriam’ (Petula Richards).

It was quite a thrill being taken through a journey of loss, pain and love.

The plot opens The plot opens with Jerry performing his professional duties as a lawyer in a heated divorce case. Even as he presents his case, he battles memories of horrendous physical and verbal abuse meted out to his mother and him in his earlier years, as though to tell us how the (negative) effects of childhood physical abuse can linger into a successful adult life.

As Jerry’s internal battle heightens, he suddenly engages in a highly inappropriate verbal attack on an opposing client during the divorce settlement proceedings. Viewers are, nonetheless, able to enter into Jerry’s moment of catharsis, even empathy with his past.

His outburst causes him an immediate suspension from the reputable law firm he represents, and he moves rapidly into depression and an attempted suicidal drowning.

The sexes in battle and victory ‘The Odds’ also highlights the challenges of the modern workplace, in particular a female dominated work environment where women hold positions of authority.

Jerry’s female supervisor is totally unsympathetic in her decision to suspend him for his unprofessionalism, oblivious to his internal issues, and makes no attempt to uncover reasons behind his unseemly reaction in court.

Conjointly, we observe the Vincentian society’s negative perception about women attempting to pursue men, through the extremely confident and ambitious young woman who romantically approaches the protagonist at a party, and is completely rejected by him. He instead seeks out the reserved, quiet and seemingly shy heroine Becky, at this same event. Becky turns out to be the love he has been looking for to complete his life.

Becky herself has not had a foolproof past. This now highly accomplished, primary level educator emerges from a single-parent (father) home, her mother dying on giving birth.

She soon captures the heart of the protagonist with her striking external beauty, but more importantly her internal grace.

The movie’s major themes of domestic abuse, depression, loss and suicide, all unfold exceptionally well in this intriguing romance. These interwoven, challenging life issues are not left to their own demise, but are successfully overcome through the romance and marriage of Jerry and Becky. Through their union, both parties learn to love after the pain.

Becky brings a feeling of hope, vision, love and new beginnings to Jerry’s

successful career, once riddled with personal despair from his dark past.

Outs and Ins The exquisite local scenery in ‘The Odds’, including areas such as Cane Grove, Kingstown, the Grenadines Wharf, the Kingstown Botanical Gardens and several beach settings, serve well in supporting the plot and themes of the production.

Unfortunately, the movie’s premiere encountered some ‘outs’ of its own.

The audio, especially the dialogue, was extremely low in several critical segments, causing the audience to lose some of the conversations vital to the unfolding of the plot.

In addition, the movie lacked time lapse indicators, leaving the audience with the impression that the events viewed took place over a short span of time, as opposed to the producers’ more realistic intentions of a lifetime story.

We do believe these technical difficulties will be overcome.

The production contained several musical fillers. It must be noted, however, that, though there were several musical fillers, the lyrics for the sound track, locally produced by our very own Hayden Billingy, served well in supporting the theme of love overcoming ‘The Odds’ of pain and disappointment.

Notwithstanding the ‘outs’, a major highlight of the evening was the screen-casting which followed the viewing.

It was an eye-opener to hear that the plot was developed around Jerry’s

(Seth Greaves’s) true story. A male entering into a character that was so tangible to his past could not have been an easy exploit. However, he was able to master it, as he waxed confidence in sharing his story.

Becky (Campatra Welcome) also shared her life story of growing up without her biological mother and still being able to remain focused. She also shared how playing the role of Jerry’s bride assisted her with her own reallife wedding arrangements.

Overall, one was left wanting more… longing for a sequel or even a season of episodes giving viewers a chance to share in how Jerry and Becky’s marriage eventually unfolds.

In that sense, there is great anticipation of what the future holds for this production, its crew and cast.

Cariwood Productions will be hosting their first ever Road Show beginning on February 28, 2020 in Barroullie, and concluding on the Windward side of the island on March 7th 2020.

Review prepared by: Ms. Soyini K. Clarke-Palmer

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 13.

CANDIDATES CANDIDA ATTES FOR THE T SVGTU’S GENERAL ELECTIONS 2020 FOR THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT

FOR THE OFFICE OF GENERAL GENERAL SECRETARY SECRETARY

Name: Wendy Bynoe Work Place: C.W. Prescod PrimaryyA Address: Gomea Branch: East Kingstown Teaching Status: Deputy Principal Teaching Experience: 26 years Offices Held: Public Relations Officer and President, SVGTU

Name: Ketty Kydd-Rhynd Work Place: Canouan Government School Address: Grand Bay, Canouan Branch: Southern Grenadines Grenadines Teaching Status: Principal Teaching Experience: 21 years years Offices Held: Committee Member, SVGTU and Vice President of Southern Grenadines Branch

Name: Noelene BacchusYoung Work Place: Intermediate High School Address: Kingstown Branch: East Kingstown Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 17 years

Platform: To work relentlessly relentlessly to provide strong leadership and promote the the welfare of our members without fear or favour.

Platform: To dispense relevant information to our Union to promote unity and greater involvement of teachers in our Union.

Platform: Continue to tirelessly advocate for a better deal for all members, defend gratuity and pension, continue to place renewed emphasis on teacher welfare, safety, security and material benefits, defend and enhance the Collective Agreement, work with colleagues to continue to strengthen all organs of the SVGTU, continue to strengthen fraternal relations of SVGTU both at home and abroad, continue to work to engender greater pride, passion and purpose among mem mem-bers.

Name: Oswald Robinson Address: Cane Garden Branch: Northern Grenadines Teaching Status: Retired Principal Teaching Experience: 36 years Offices Held: Public Relations Officer and President, SVGTU Platform: To work collabora collabora-tively with the National Executive, General Council and other structures of the Union to offer effective representation.

FOR THE OFFICE OF THE 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Name: Andrew John Address: Argyle Branch: South Windward Teaching Status: Principal Teaching Experience: 37 years Offices Held: 2nd Vice President, SVGTU Platform: To improve the welfare and status of teachers through enhanced working conditions, benefits, salary and teacher professional development.

Name: Nikeisha Williams Williams Work Place: Buccament Bay Secondary School Address: Chauncey Branch: South Leeward Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 18 ye years ars Offices Held: President, So uth South Leeward Branch and General Secretary, SVGTU

ASSISTANT GENERAL FOR THE OFFICE OF ASSISTANT SECRETARY SECRETARY

Platform: To support the Executive in forwarding the market-Union’s mandate and market ing the Union to the younger members

Platform: To work with all necessary persons and give my best whenever I can and when needed.

Platform: To work with all stakeholders to create the necesnecessary facilities that will benefit each teacher and develop positive teaching-learning experiences. As Treasurer, I will ensure that transpar transpar-ency and accountability are maintained at all times.

General Elections are slated for 25th and 26th February, Febr uar ry y, 2020.

202 0.

FOR THE OFFICE OF COMMITTEE MEMBER

FOR THE OFFICE OF THE 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Name: Denisha Hector Work Place: North Union Secondary School Address: Mesopotamia Branch: Central Windward Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 12 years

Platform: To work along with the Executive, Branches and Members of the SVGTU to further strengthen the Union so that its members benefit.

Work Place: Lowmans Leeward Anglican School Address: Gibson Corner Branch: West Kingstown Teaching Status: Qualified Assistant Teacher Teaching Experience: 3 years

Platform: To work closely with ensure that all information the General Secretary to ensure disseminated in a timely manner. are recorded and disseminated

Name: Meriah Samuel Work Place: Petit Bordel Secondary School Address: Belair Branch: North Leeward Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 10 ye ars years Offices Held: President, No North rth Leeward Branch and Treasurer, SVGTU

Name: Abdon Whyte Work Place: Union Island Secondary School Address: Ashton, Union Island Branch: Southern Grenadines Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 17 years Offices Held: President, South South-ern Grenadines Branch

Name: Tishanna Reid

Name: Attika James Work Place: Lowmans Leeward Anglican School Address: New Montrose Branch: West Kingstown Teaching Status: Qualified Assistant Teacher ars Teaching Experience: 18 ye years

FOR THE OFFICE OF TREASURER

Platform: To provide candid representation and service to members.

FOR THE OFFICE OF COMMITTEE MEMBER

Platform: To represent the members of the SVGTU and to restore the confidence and faith in our Union by dedicating myself to which members once had by the task at hand, working diligently toward better salaries and the while creating working conditions, salaries opportunities for betterme nt of all members. betterment

Name: Fiona Charles Address: Belair Branch: East Kingstown Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 16 years Offices Held: Vice President, East Kingstown Branch

ATIONS T FOR THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELA RELATIONS OFFICER

Name: Vanrick Williams Work Place: St. Clair Dacon Secondary School Address: Glamorgan, Belmont Branch: South Windward Teaching Status: Graduate Teacher Teaching Experience: 19 years

BrowneName: Samantha BrowneCordice Work Place: Kingstown Preparatory School Address: Lower Questelles Branch: East Kingstown Teaching Status: Qualified Assistant Teacher yearss Teaching Experience: 22 year

Platform: To work with collabo-continuous drive and collabo ration, and passion to advance the cause for all members

equality Platform: To work for equali ty for all teachers with salaries and benefits to match their stake-qualifications and experience. To work will all stake holders to benefit all Union m members embers

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14. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

CDC increases office support staff

THE STAFF AT THE SECRETARIAT of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) has been increased and strengthened, in an effort to ensure that Vincy Mas remains competitive and

viable among all the similar festivals in the region.

Well known business executive and longserving member of the CDC Esworth ‘Ezzie’ Roberts has joined the

Secretariat as the Corporation’s Project Development and Marketing Officer.

Roberts has had an extended association with the entertainment and cultural arts

industry here, and he would be expected to impact the CDC list of activities on the Carnival-loving Vincentians both home and abroad so as to solicit increased support.

James Gibson was also recently welcomed to the staff. He brings not only sound certification background but a wealth of experience to the financial management’s demands of the Carnival Development Corporation.

He is schooled in accounts and management’ and the anticipation is that Gibson would set this demanding but necessary area of Carnival operations on a clear and defined path.

Roberts and Gibson’s appointments were announced by CDC’s Chairman Ricardo Adams at a press conference held last week Tuesday.

He described the additions as measures to “increase the capacity at the office level. “ The two additions to the staff bring the complement to eight fulltime officers.

Meanwhile, the CDC used the occasion of the press conference to announce one telling change to its traditional programme of activities.

Chairperson of the Beauty Shows Committee LaFerne Fraser was tasked with disclosing that a decision had been taken to move the Miss SVG Pageant out of the Carnival Season, to October 31.

It is expected that the

Esworth ‘Ezzie’ Roberts – new Project Development and Marketing Officer of the CDC.

James Gibson is expected to bring his professional expertise to the management of the CDC finances, among other things.

Pageant will become part of the annual Independence Anniversary celebration.

More on this change, and the 2020 Vincy Mas programme will be forthcoming when the CDC holds a press conference on March 3.

Miss SVG 2019 Sharikah Rodney will now have her reign extended.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 15.

Feature

Vincy Mas: Centre stage in T&TÊs Carnival

THE CULTURE AND COLOURS of St. Vincent & The Grenadines were on full display at the recent Trinidad & Tobago Carnival event ‘Fam Jam’, February 13, 2020.

‘Fam Jam’, a full concert event, the brainchild of Vincentian Soca Star Skinny Fabulous, was supported by the SVG Carnival Development Corporation (CDC).

Given its support for the extravaganza, the CDC mounted a booth at the lush Maraval, Port of Spain venue, from which their representatives pitched the upcoming 2020 Vincy Mas festivities to the many patrons of the event.

In addition, patrons had the opportunity to pose for photos with the Vincy Mas brand ambassadors, and receive Vincy Mas branded paraphernalia.

‘Fam Jam’ also provided the opportunity for SVG Soca dynamos L Pank and Hance John to endear themselves to the Trini audience. They shared the stage with top T&T acts like Nadia Batson and Lyrikal, and St. Lucia’s Teddyson John.

Then the time was right to welcome Skinny Fabulous centre stage. Amidst a flood of Vincentian flags and rags, the soca maestro delivered a number of hits from his diverse musical catalogue, to the appreciation of the large crowd.

More was to come! It was near hysteria when Skinny was joined by his Soca ‘Famalay’ - Machel Montano and Iwer George - to officially ‘shell down’ ‘Fam Jam’, and usher in T&T’s Carnival Week in fine style.

Chairman of The SVG Carnival Development

L Pank performing at ‘Fam Jam’.

Hance John performing at ‘Fam Jam’.

Corporation, Ricardo Adams, on hand at ‘Fam Jam’ shared, “We are very pleased to be here during this very exciting time.

“We all know that T&T’s Carnival is considered the Mecca, but Vincy Mas brings its own unique cultural attributes to the regional Carnival calendar. We take pleasure in introducing potential visitors to these one of a kind facets, and are happy to welcome them to our upcoming festival.”

Brand Ambassadors interacting with patrons at the event.

Esworth Roberts, Development and Marketing Officer of the CDC, reminded that “St. Vincent has always had a footprint in T&T’s Carnival, previously with Becket & Kevin Lyttle, and currently with Skinny & Problem Child.

“We are excited to be here to expose the Soca fans to home-grown talents such as Hance John, L Pank and many others, which they can all experience this coming June/July.”

While in T&T for the ‘Fam Jam’ event, Adams and Roberts availed themselves of

Skinny Fabulous and Machel Montano during a ‘Famalay’ performance at ‘Fam Jam’. an interview with LoopNews and live prime time interviews on two television networks, TTT and TV6.

According to Roberts, a team from the CDC was expected to return to Trinidad on last Wednesday, February 19, to continue their marketing activities during that country’s

Two Vincy Mas Brand Ambassadors working at the event.

carnival celebrations.

The colour and splendour of the Vincy Mas are set for June 26th to July 7th 2020. (Source: Sonique Solutions/CDC)

CDC Chairman during the promotions at ‘Fam Jam’. (Photos courtesy SVG/CDV)

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16. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Police Welfare elects new Executive THE ROYAL St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Police Welfare Association (PWA) held its elections for representatives to its Branch Boards on January 24, 2020.

Four (4) persons were nominated to contest for the three (3) available posts on the Senior Branch Board with Sergeants Daniel Prescott, Marilyn Burke and Rochelle Smith emerging as the representatives for that branch.

Corporals Lez Harry, Shacky Greene, Colin May and Germano Douglas were elected representatives of the Intermediate Branch Board, while Constables Moise Cummings, Kenroy Martin, Renford Samuel, Rohan Howard and Sherika Gordon were

elected to be the representatives of the Junior Branch Board.

On February 6, 2020, a General Meeting was convened to elect the chairperson of each Branch Board, the General Secretary and the overall chairperson to oversee the mandate and run the affairs of the Association.

Sergeant Rochelle Smith was selected as chairperson of the Senior Branch; Corporal, Lez Harry as Intermediate Branch Board chairperson, and Constable Moise Cummings as Junior Branch chairperson.

Constable Somorow Quashie secured the position of General Secretary.

Corporal Lez Harry emerged as the new Chairman after he was

ratified by the membership.

He replaces Station Sergeant Brenton Smith who opted not to run for re-election, citing that he was moving aside to give an opportunity to young persons, with fresh and new ideas, to emerge and come to the forefront.

Station Sergeant Smith served as chairman of the PWA from 2006 — 2013 and again from 2017 2020.

Corporal Harry is a veteran with 23 years of service as a police officer.

He was a member of the previous executive, serving for the past three (3) years as chairman of the Intermediate Branch Board.

Corporal Harry conceded that it was going to be a mammoth task trying to fill the boots of Station Sergeant

Smith. Instead, he said, he will not be trying to fill his boots but rather build on his tremendous work.

He went on to thank Station Sergeant Smith for his contribution, and said he would have served the organization with distinction.

He assured the membership that his new executive will work hard and do their best, “so great things are to be expected.”

He implored the general membership to support the new executive and to work hand in hand with the executive as the way forward is charted.

The new Chairman said that his executive will foster and forge a good working relationship with the hierarchy of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force.

Outgoing Chairman of the Police Welfare Association Station Sergeant Brenton Smith (left) hands over the ‘staff of leadership’ to incoming Chairman Corporal Lez Harry.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 17.

Diaspora

Vincy pageant officer succumbs to cancer

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT DALIAH Kareitha Ralph-Charles, the Sion Hill-born, long-serving member and chief liaison communications officer of the Brooklyn, New Yorkbased Caribbean American Cultural Group, Inc. (CACG) that organizes the annual Miss New York Continental Pageant, succumbed to an undisclosed cancer, after a long battle, on Jan. 19, in Brooklyn. She was 59.

According to her cousin Yvonne Peters, CACG’s founder and president, Ralph-Charles’s funeral service was held on Sat., Feb. 1, at Clarendon Road Church, 3304 Clarendon Rd., Brooklyn.

Peters told THE VINCENTIAN that the deceased joined CACG in June 2013 and served as an executive member until 2017.

“She played a major role with the title of Chief Liaison Communications Officer… she will be greatly missed,” Peters said.

Adonna Lewis-Dudley — a CACG director, said Ralph- Charles was promoted to Chief Liaison Communications Officer because of her “diligence, unwavering commitment, resilience and love for people.

“Kareitha was responsible for coordinating all external communication and shaping the narratives that engage donors, volunteers and clients, the young ladies [who] enrolled in our pageant programme,” Lewis-Dudley shared with THE VINCENTIAN. Lewis-Dudley described her as “one of our biggest recruiters,” and a mentor to the young ladies.

In fact, Lewis-Dudley said, RalphCharles “would meet with concerned parents and assure them that the

organization would take proper care of their daughters.”

Lewis-Dudley continued, “She went above and beyond — even going into her own pockets or raiding a closet or two to help outfit a young lady at presentation events or on Pageant Day. “You see, not all of the young ladies who participated were of financial means or owned a high heel shoe, much less a gown,” she said. “And she helped to make that happen.

“She was all about the young ladies, always buying gifts to present for them,” Lewis-Dudley said. “She was very giving in so many ways that, from the moment she became ill, we felt the void right away.

“It was quite a struggle,” she added. “Kareitha was a valuable member, who will be greatly missed.”

Daliah Kareitha Ralph-Charles (Feb. 4, 1960 – Jan. 19, 2020)

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18. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

SVGCA donates whiteboards to schools

THE SVG CRICKET ASSOCIATION INC. (SVGCA) continues to demonstrate that it is not solely about cricket, but that it is also committed to making a wider social impact in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The latest demonstration of this commitment came when the SCGCA domated a number of whiteboards to the St. Clair Dacon Secondary School (SCDSS).

The Whiteboard

Project, according to a release from the SVGCA, will be implemented over two phases — the first having already been complete by January 2020, with the construction and handing over of whiteboards for

Students of the SCDSS with teacher Vanrick Williams (extreme left) and President of the SVGCA Dr. Kishorne Shallow (extreme right), after the presentation of the first set of whiteboards. eight classrooms.

The second phase, earmarked to be complete by March 2020, will see six classrooms being outfitted with whiteboards.

President of the SVGCA Dr. Kishore Shallow described the project as “….another effort to advocate the SVGCA’s policy of balancing education and sports.”

In reference to why the SCDSS was chosen as the beneficiary, Dr. Shallow explained, “This school and community have been a nurturing ground of many elite Vincentian cricketers, including the McLeans and Josephs.”

In fact, as Dr. Shallow explained, the request (for whiteboards) was made by the School through Vanrick Williams, a teacher in

service there, who highlighted the challenges faced by students with the ongoing use of chalk.

And in reaffirming his Association’s outreach efforts, the President said, “We are quite pleased to be able to stretch our resources beyond cricket, especially where it facilitates holistic development and, which I am most certain would help to produce more exceptional players and citizens.”

At the handing over ceremony, Williams assured: “The principal, staff, and students of the St. Clair Dacon Secondary School wish to thank Dr. Shallow and the entire SVGCA for their generous contribution of the Whiteboards… which would help to support the educational

development of our students.”

The Whiteboard Project is valued at about $10,000 and is being done in collaboration with the contractor, Marcellus Constance.

The Whiteboard Project follows similar initiatives by the SVGCA as they commit to advocating for education.

In 2019, five young cricketers were provided with financial assistance at the beginning of the new school year. Last November, the SVGCA donated BBQ grills to St. Vincent Grammar School. And to celebrate the 40th Independence, the SVGCA, 2017 & 2018 Association of the Year, recognized four young national sportspersons with awards valuing $1500 each.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Joyette donates 1,000 books to SVGCC THE LIBRARY OF THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Community College now has an additional 1,000 books on its shelves, thanks to Canada-based Vincentian Dr. David Joyette.

The books, which the college intends to share with the National Public Library, were handed over to the institution on Tuesday 11th February 2020 by Mr. Cyp Neehall SVGCC Head Librarian Pearl McMaster (left), and Mr. Alexander ‘Bassy’ Cyp Neehall (third from left), SVGCC students Alexander, longtime (centre), Sebastian ‘Bassy’ Alexander (second friends of Joyette. from right) and Director of SVGCC Nigel Scott Director of the SVGCC, (right).

Nigel Scott, lauded Joyette’s donation and Human Resources Management expressed that it is citizens like him trainer, facilitator, and coach, with a who help to make the task of scholarly background in physical educating the nation’s youth easier. sciences, behavioural psychology and Joyette, who did not attend business. secondary school due to family Much of his success he attributes to obligations, now holds a PhD, and is a his love for reading.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 19.

Regional

Barbudans living in tents ACCORDING to Environmental Activist John Mussington, many Barbudans “still live in tents,” some two and a half years after the island was flattened by category five hurricane Irma (2017).

Barbudans, he said, who suffered the John Mussington, Environmentalist, (Inset crippling effects – BBC) equated Barbudans living in tents, of hurricane to the Government’s tardiness with Irma, are still respect to its obligation to assist with the struggling to people’s recovery. (Photo Credits BBC and recapture some loopbarbadosnews.com) semblance of normalcy, amidst the slow progress as development (projects) it relates to government’s response to that pose serious risks to the island’s fragile eco-system. their needs.

When contacted for comment, The Government recently Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Staff, announced plans to break ground for the construction of 10 eco-friendly and Lionel Hurst refuted the allegations.

He told Loop News the government hurricane-resistant homes on the has done everything possible to bring island. But these have yet to be constructed, supporting the claim that relief to the situation created by hurricane Irma. progress has been slow.

“As you know, all 1800 residents “Essentially, there are many people were evacuated after Irma struck and who are still not settled because the while Jose was threatening. Only one housing stock has not been restored.

This particular project was designed to person died, even though 95% of the buildings were destroyed. The island donate houses to those persons to try wasn’t habitable and we’ve done to address that particular situation.

The bad thing is two and a half years significant work in repairing houses later, going on three years, we are now by seeking international assistance,” he said, even as he accused having to contend with these issues.”

Mussington of aligning himself with Mussington told Loop News. the political foes of the Antigua and The Environmental activist thinks Barbuda Labour Party Government. it’s unfortunate that the government Mr Hurst said it would cost an seems more focused on commercial development than they are on meeting estimated US$220 million to restore Barbuda to where it was before the needs of affected citizens; that while Barbudans were still displaced, hurricane Irma struck on September plans were being drawn up and land 5, 2017. (Source: being earmarked for commercial Loopnews.com) development on the island,

Lionel Hurst, Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief of Staff (Inset) declared that Government has done all it can possibly do to bring relief to hurricanebattered Barbuda.

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20. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

One sister, two brothers

Dear George A BROTHER in my church told me that a sister in the church is interested in him. I was taken off guard and at a loss for word when he told me so because that sister had expressed interest in me as well.

I told him nothing and he went away thinking that I was happy for him. The truth is I’m not happy for him, and will do whatever needs to be dome to ensure I end up with this girl.

This is crunch time and I’ve been in the relationship wilderness far too long. How do I approach this matter?

Race for time Dear Race for time, Your conversation should be with

this sister, and it should take place as soon as possible. You need to hear from her what her game is about engaging two men simultaneously on an intimate level.

This brother could be trying to get some advantage. Maybe he has said nothing to her and nothing was ever said to him by this sister, and he is just doing this to buy himself time to get to her.

You need to come direct with her and ask her to set the story straight. From her answer, you will know if this is worthwhile pursuing.

George

DonÊt take the bait at her friend for trying to sleep with me. That was when her friend told me MY WIFE’s friend from that if ever I was the UK is vacationing with us for a few weeks. interested in getting a She is an attractive 35 or woman who would not be so years old. I have had as jealous as my wife and a woman who is able nothing but respect for to recognize a quality this woman since she man, I can join her in came to our house, and the UK. That angered my wife has even my wife and she has complimented me. thrown that in my face One day, my wife came home from work, to every day without fail.

Her friend is about to find me standing in front of her friend who was in return to the UK, and George, I’m seriously the shower. She was thinking about what she stretching her hand to take the towel she asked said to me about joining her in the UK. Am I a me to hand for her. Of course, she was wearing bad person for thinking nothing, and my wife, on this way? noting that, immediately Not happy began accusing me of taking a shower with her Dear Not happy, friend, although I was completely clothed.

Get that thought She stormed into the about joining your wife’s bathroom, looking for friend in the UK out of evidence then screamed

Dear George,

No hitting, please Dear George, MY WIFE and I have been married for 14 years and we have never had a major disagreement. I have had no reason to suspect her of cheating on me until now.

One early morning we were going at it in bed and I got the shock of my life when I discovered a broken condom in my wife. I held it up and asked her about it and she started playing dumb, telling me that I must quit playing games with her, and suggested I was the one who came up with the condom in the first place. The thing is I cannot use condoms because of allergies, and she knows that.

When I saw that she was serious about putting it on me, I became extremely mad and I hit her a couple of times. It seemed that she was happy I hit her because she has used that as an excuse to leave the house and declare that she wanted out of the marriage. The last thing I heard from

your head immediately. The longer you keep thinking about it, is the more soil you are adding to its root.

That statement was obviously made out of anger and was the perfect way to get some hurtful words through to your wife. It had nothing to do with you, so wake up, and now would be a good time to find ways to reassure your wife that she has no need to be insecure when you are around beautiful women.

It would not hurt for both of you to see a counsellor to address issues of insecurity etc. Maybe it is you who have to take the lead and initiate this move. That’s what a real man would do.

George

her was she had filed for a divorce on the grounds of physical violence.

What should be my next move?

Shocking discovery Dear Shocking discovery, The only thing that you did wrong in all of this was to put your hands on your wife. It does not matter what hurt she has inflicted on you, it does not give you the right to hit her. All you did was to give her the perfect excuse for avoiding the subject.

In short, you could have addressed the mysterious appearance of that used condom without hitting her. As for the mysterious condom, I’m sure you do have an idea how it got there, but the bigger question is what pushed her to that point.

Seek legal advice is an option open to you, but in the meantime, try also to reach out to her through the services of a counsellor for the purpose of discussing the future of your marriage.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You need an energetic outlet that will help you dissipate your anxiety. You may find a rare antique this week. Take time to deal with legal documents and the affairs of people who you may be indebted to.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may want to take extra special care of your luggage if you are traveling this week. Efforts made to improve yourself will turn out to your satisfaction.

Pleasure trips will be emotionally favorable.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week. Networking will be a necessity. Look into ways that you can make extra cash. You must try to include your mate in your activities this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Do not get into uncertain financial deals.

Relax I and enjoy what you’ve accomplished when you’re finished.

Don’t be too eager to dismiss someone who works under you. Social events held in your home will be successful and entertaining for those who attend.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You are best to do something energetic with friends instead. You can make money if you are wise in your choices.

Keep your feelings to yourself if you want to avoid embarrassment. Your ideas can be put into action.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will be emotional when dealing with coworkers or employers. Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. Get help setting up a reasonable budget. Look into ways of making extra cash. Children may be difficult to deal with.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Get involved in the activities of children.

They will teach you far more than you expect. You can easily wrap up overdue personal legal matters that have caused problems for you. Stomach problems could prevail if you haven’t been watching your diet.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Think twice before you pursue an unrealistic endeavor. Make any necessary changes to your insurance policy. Your position may be in question if you haven’t been pulling your weight.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Children or friends may try to talk you into lending them money. Raise your selfesteem and your confidence if you want to get back into the mainstream again.

Partnerships will be favorable and contracts can be signed.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You may have difficulty trying to get your mate to understand your position.

Feeling under the weather may be a result of overindulgence. Travel for business or pleasure will be enlightening.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You might not be as reserved on an emotional level as you’d like. You can elaborate on your creative ideas and get involved in groups that relate to the arts.

Don’t overspend on luxury items. Your partner may push buttons that infuriate you.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Deception will play an important factor in relationships. You may be emotional and quick to judge others. Financial limitations may add to your depression.

You will have the discipline to make changes you feel are necessary.

ACROSS 1. False story 4. Gift-tag word 7. Yearns 9. Spring flower 11. Infantry weapon 12. Mumbai citizen 14. Assist 15. Traffic guides 17. Perform a slalom 18. Nudge 20. Classic horror author 21. Horn honk 22. Comfortable 24. Fears greatly 26. Deface 28. Occupied a chair 29. Strolled 32. Defrost 35. Imitation butter 36. Crow noise 38. Haughty person 40. Lung expander 41. An Italian resident 43. Singing pair 44. Suit adjuster 46. Every 12 months 48. Endured 49. Stitched 50. Adding result 51. Grass wetness DOWN 1. City on the Thames 2. Country hotel 3. Freudian subjects 4. Fish “limbs” 5. Like antiques 6. Lifted

7. Dragon homes 8. Quick cut 9. Cruise ships 10. Birthday treats 11. Head covering 13. Sharp pinch 16. Mount Olympus inhabitant 19. Disney elephant 21. Tub scrubs 23. Young lass 25. Enjoy bananas or beans 27. Turntable platter 29. Bogus name 30. Earns

31. River blocker 33. Philanthropist Carnegie 34. “That _ be terrific!”

35. Nutritious grain 37. Manners

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 21.

39. Lad 41. Dwelling chamber 42. Must get 45. Baseball legend Gehrig 47. Impress

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22. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Ganja growers receive training MORE THAN 100 local traditional cannabis cultivators were set to benefit from training in best practices cultivation last Tuesday.

This, as the Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) continued to ensure that this group of investors stay ahead of the game, and are better placed to benefit from the licit production of medicinal cannabis in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Tuesday’s training focused on best practices in medicinal cannabis cultivation, record keeping and traceability. It will be facilitated

by Vice President of Accounts and Education at Ample Organics, Tom Ritchie.

Ample Organics is a leading provider of cannabis solutions in Canada, including seed-to-sale software platform, and the MCA has entered into a partnership with the company in respect of its own national cannabis tracking software.

A presentation on the procedures for establishing a bank account for licensed traditional cultivators and employees also formed part of Tuesday’s agenda.

The session also heard from Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar and Chief Executive Officer Jerrol Thompson.

MCA staff members who have successfully completed the AmpleLearn Course received their Teal certificates from Ample representative Tom Ritchie, and the traditional cultivators received certificates on completion of the training.

The event was held at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, and came on the heels of similar, previous activities for the local medical fraternity and staff. (Source: MCA)

Cricket highlights in Grammar School in the Mid 1960s Continued from Page 8. contribution to the sport, Seymour has deservedly been honoured by a Firm’s competition in his name.

The Grammar School won a thrilling match, the most spectacular event being a close to the wicket catch by Clouden off a full-blooded hook. David had defeated Goliath.

Several players on both teams played national and regional games. Alfie Roberts went on to play Test Cricket for the West Indies at eighteen!

The next year 1955, I had confirmed my membership of the team as Vice-Captain. Among the new players were Vanny Alexander, Frederick Ballantyne, Lennox John, Ashford Lewis, Leslie Davy, Owen Cuffy and Victor Hadley.

In 1955, we were "at home" to two of our colleges from Barbados, Combemere and Harrison, against which we performed creditably.

The significant players against whom we played included Erskine Sandiford who went on to become Prime Minister of Barbados, and Teddy Griffith who gained selection to the West Indies Test Team as a lefthanded opening batsman and a right- handed

quickie.

As for me, I was appointed captain of the cricket team for the 1956 Inter-Schools Tournament at home, Vanny Alexander being my Vice-Captain.

Our squad disappointed, though the youthful John Soso and Victor Hadley showed great promise with bat and ball respectively.

In the following year, we crowned our efforts by bringing home the Narvo Shield in which the new recruits were Raymond Gonsalves, Mickey Brisbane, Austin Davy joining up with Mike Joshua, Carlyle Dougan and Jack Dear of the year before.

I was out of school as a student, but in my role as Assistant Games Master in 1960, we produced a very good team, second only to that of 1949. We won the 1960 School Tournament in Grenada.

The team in batting order read: Keith Saunders, Winston Frank, Raymond Knights, Hally Dougan, Douggie Cambridge (Capt), Carl Glasgow, Mike Findlay, Rodway Fraser, Jeff Hadley, Stanley Browne and Kinley Lawrence.

And if for any reason some person might be curious of the 1949 event in which, perhaps, a

grandfather or great-uncle have participated, here it goes in batting order: Hudson Soso, Ardon Antrobus, Ardon Daisley, Victor Cuffy, Jack Pollard, Hutson Martindale (Captain), Rudy Matthews, Tracy Connell, Leon Douglas, Bertram Compton, and Eddie Sealey.

To return to 1954, we had lost Aryton Clouden by our brutal "SuperAnnuation" rule. I then appealed to the Games Committee to have the Emmanuel High School, whither Clouden had taken refuge with his abundant sporting gifts, drafted in the regional system, only for Mr. Lopey, The Don, to reply that Emmanuel could not be considered "a bona fide secondary school!"

Grenada, where GBSS and Presentation College teamed up, had my precedent.

Lastly, until recently, Clement Lawrence who played for the KCC, was perhaps the oldest cricketer alive at about 99.

He may well be, but certainly not kicking, having lost both his legs in the battle of life.

Surely, no one begrudges him the century which he never chalked up with his bat!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 23.

Coach Mercury upbeat despite challenges KENDALE MERCURY – Head Coach of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football team Vincy Heat, is upbeat ahead of his team’s matches in Guadeloupe next month.

Vincy Heat will meet Guadeloupe in Guadeloupe on 26th March, and here in St Vincent and the Grenadines on 31st March, for a Gold Cup spot in 2021.

But for Mercury and his technical team, it has not all been what they would have wanted as far as preparation is concerned, going into the March fixtures.

“We are not in the best position where we ought to be, but we are confident of getting past Guadeloupe,” Mercury related.

As it pertains to players turning up for training, Mercury revealed, “ We started back on the 6th of January, and so far, the most we have had at training at best is fourteen players.”

He disclosed that on other occasions, just a handful of players would show up for the training sessions.

Mercury thumbed the “congested” scheduling of matches in the midweek as well as the fact that many of the players are plying their trade in Antigua and Barbuda, in the country’s Premier League, for the “low turnout,” at training.

He noted that he had recommended to the Tournaments Committee that they schedule Premier Division matches in the National Club Championships only on weekends, and he has seen some adherence.

“We have also put some measures in place, whereby the players who are in Antigua are responsible for their own training… We have sent them programmes, and they are expected to follow the programmes and log the information and send it back to us,

Kendale Mercury is undaunted in the face of some serious challenges with respect to the preparation of Vincy Heat for next month round of matches in the CONCACAF Nations League play off.

whether by voice notes or by videos.” the Vincy Heat Head Coach explained.

Mercury emphasised that in the given circumstances, fitness would be key in the selection of the team.

“We have set a bench mark for these players in terms of their fitness, and if they don’t meet the accepted level, they would not be selected,” Mercury said forcefully.

Having done some tactical plotting to combat the Guadelopeans, Mercury is hopeful that training would be ramped up in March, and that players on loan in Antigua and Barbuda, will get an early release, so he can piece together his plans.

Vincy Heat was forced to go this route against Guadeloupe after placing second to Suriname in the Group D of the Nation League, having faltered on the last hurdle when they lost one- nil

to Dominica in Dominica on 18th November.

Had they beaten the Dominicans, they would have gained a direct berth to the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2021.

Should St Vincent and the Grenadines overcome Guadeloupe in the two matches in March, they will face Haiti in June as their final stage for Gold Cup qualification.

BESCO-Pastures bent on representing SVG

Raymond Trimmingham (standing extreme left) is determined in his effort to ensure that his team – BESCO-Pastures (pictured) represent SVG at this year’s CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield.

IT IS GOING TO COST BESCO- Pastures some $120,000 in order to represent SVG in this year’s CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield in Curacao, but they remain undaunted in their effort

to ensure their participation.

Given what they have raised themselves, the support they will get from the national football scheme of things, President of BESCO-

Pasture Raymond Trimmingham is optimistic that corporate St. Vincent and the Grenadines will lend their support.

BESCO-Pastures are the reigning Premier

Division title holders of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation’s National Club Championhips. As such, therefore, they have qualified to represent this country at

the 2020 CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield in Curacao.

The Vincentian champs have been drawn in Group D, in which they are seeded number one, and will face off against SV Real Rincon of Bonaire and Platinum of St Lucia.

They will open their campaign on 3rd April at the Antoine Maduro Stadium versus Platinum from 5:30pm, and meet SV Real Rincon on 7th April, from 8pm.

Apart from Group D, there are three other groups contesting the shield.

SV Vesta of Curacao, the Defence Force of Barbados, Club Franciscain of Martinique and Dominica’s South East comprise Group A. Group B includes SV Inter Moengo of Suriname, Metropolitan Football Club of Puerto Rico, FC Santiago de Cuba (Cuba), and

Scholars International of the Cayman Islands.

And Group C comprises One Love of the British Virgin Islands, Liberta Blackhawks of Antigua and Barbuda, SV Racing Club of Aruba, and Guadeloupe’s Amical Club D’ Etang Noir.

The winner of the 2020 CONCACAF Caribbean Shield will have the opportunity to face the fourth place finisher of the 2020 Flow CONCACAF Club Championships in a playoff match.

The winner of that playoff will be the fourth Caribbean representative at the 2020 Scotiabank CONCACAF League.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines last participated in the CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield was in 2018 in the Dominican Republic, when then Club Champions Avenues United Football Club was the representative.

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24. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Mc Intosh is still SVGNA President DORIS MC INTOSH was returned as President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association, at the Association’s Annual General Meeting, staged last Tuesday evening, at

the Thomas Saunders Secondary School.

Mc Intosh tallied 23 votes to defeat her rivalNatasha Stapleton, who gathered 10 votes.

Mc Intosh, who served in the position of

President from 2004 to 2010, returned to the helm in 2016 and was reelected in 2018 to serve for another two years, as per the constitution.

In her victory speech last Tuesday, Mc Intosh

thanked those who supported her, and told the affiliates that she and her Executive SVGNA’s new Executive: (From left) - Silma Millington, O’ Neil would be Cockburn, Doris Mc Intosh (President), Simone Richardson, working hard Cheryl Alexander, Jouvanie Roberts. (Absent from photo are to smooth Jacintha Ballantyne, Sharlene Wyllie and Pearlina Thomas.) over the expected position of Treasurer.

O’Neil Cockburn and “challenges,” which the Ballantyne had no Pearlina Thomas gained sport would face. challenger.

19 and 15 votes Joining Mc Intosh as Also elected respectively, as they the new First Viceunopposed was Silma were voted in as the two President is Simone Millington, who is the Committee Members.

Richardson who ousted new Secretary.

Cockburn and Thomas Natasha Stapleton, 18Meanwhile, Jouvanie were chosen over Shenica 14.

Roberts had no Haynes, Janet Taking up the post of challenger and was Christopher, Deborah Second Vice President is installed as the new Robinson and Roy Sharlene Wyllie, who Public Relations Officer. Hamilton. saw off O’Neil Cockburn, Cheryl Alexander got Last Tuesday’s AGM, 19-13. the nod over Thelma also heard the Jacintha Ballantyne, a Foster, 18 votes to 14, to Executive’s report for veteran Netball become the Association’s 2018 to 2020, and administrator, Games Secretary. She received the association’s An affiliate representative was a Committee Audited Financial making his point during one of returns to the Executive, and will Member of the outgoing Statement for that the heated moments at last take up the Executive. period.

Tuesday’s AGM.

Dublin continues winning ways Double wins for four swimmers DAMION DUBLIN continued his rich vein of form when he won his second consecutive victory in the SVG Table Tennis Association Monthly Assessment Damion Dublin continued Tourna-ment, played at his dominance on the the West St. George Table Tennis board.

Secondary School, Belair.

Dublin came out winner of the event when he beat Akeil De Roche 11/9, 11/5, 11/7, in the finals.

On his way to the finals, Dublin disposed of Mikel Hazelwood, 11/5, 11/4, 11/7, in the quarterfinals, and Michel Creese, 11/5, 11/7, 11/8, in the semifinals.

Following the Tournament, a number of players were named to a training squad for possible selection to a National Team, to participate in the Martinique Invitational Tournament in April 2020: Those selected: Damion Dublin, Akeil De Roche, Caleb Howard, Michel Creese, Mirac Creese, Joshua Joseph and Mikel Hazelwood.

The trials will take place on the 7th March 2020, at the West St. George Secondary School, beginning at 2:00pm.

I.B.A ALLEN

KIONE De Shong, Kaija Eastmond,Brandon George and Mya De Freitas, were double winners at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation hosted by 2020 CGM Gallagher Invitational Championships.

The Championship, which attracted participation by Pirates Swim Club of Barbados and Sailfish of Grenada, was held last Sunday at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre.

The two overseas participants were joined by local clubs Black Sands Swim Squad, Blue Marlins Swim Club and Rising Stars Swim Club of Bequia.

De Shong, who represented the Black Sands Swim Squad won the Male 8 and Under category and added that age group’s Sprint Champion title to his collection.

Brandon George

Similarly, Kaija Eastmond, of Pirates Swim Club of Barbados, copped the Female 8 and Under, along with being crowned the Sprint Champion.

Meanwhile, Brandon George, who swam under the Black Sands Swim Squad’s banner, held on to the Male 1112 title and was the 912 Male Sprint Kione De Shong Champion.

Eltonte Completing the quartet of double trophy claims was Mya De Leonard Freitas, who won the Female 13 - taking the Male 13-14 14, and was the Female 13 and champion Over Sprint Champion.

There were other age categories title.

Winning which saw single winners. the Male 15 Hazen Dabriel of Blue and Over Kaija Eastmond was Dajenell Marlins Swim Williams of Sailfish of Grenada, Club won the with Blue Marlins’ Jaynika Male 9-10 Williams taking the Female 15 category, with and Over.

Eltonique The two other individual titles Leonard of up for grabs were captured by Black Sands Zariel Nelson who claimed the Squad taking Sprint Champion title for the the Female Females 9-12, and Aaron De segment.

Black Sands’ Freitas, the Male 15 and Over Jamie Joachim Sprint Champion.

Black Sands Swim Squad took the Female 11-12, with her champed the overall team title, with Blue Marlins — second. teammate Mya De Freitas

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 25.

Sports

Speculations and rupture THERE MUST be an improvement when the Vincentian Under-20 footballers play Montserrat tomorrow. The squad lost their first two matches: conceding five goals and failing to convert against Guyana and Nicaragua. After Montserrat, they have Virgin Islands to contend with.

The disappointment among fans is understandable. In normal circumstances, St. Vincent and the Grenadines ought to have put in a better display, given our history.

Football matches are not based on past records.

The results will fuel speculations and engender rupture within the football fraternity. Supporters will reflect on a trend which the nation carved out over its existence. There have been obstacles such as what life throws up.

The loss to Dominica in the Concacaf Nation’s League is glaring example. That mishap forced the squad into a play off with Guadeloupe in a quest for a Gold Cup spot.

Should the Vincentians overcome Guadeloupe, they have Haiti to face. Newly elected president may find himself under the microscope if the team does not deliver. And like the trend when teams falter, of coaches feeling the impact, in the hostile jungle of confrontational administrative conflicts, detractors of the current administration will provide ammunition for those who may feel hard done by their removal.

The performances of the Under 20 will add gasoline to an already blazing inferno. There is no cause to be despondent. We have to pick ourselves up, dust our boots off, and start kicking again.

What is needed is commitment, and a sense of purpose. There is no room for half measures or moves of uncertainty. Players have to establish that course of discipline. Coaches, dominators, fans, supporters, government, can provide that much, but it boils down to individual pride.

We have to guard against complacency. Any activity calls for application. One cannot afford to take anything for granted. Players have to be switched on for every encounter.

Football demands physical fitness. Players have to be honest with themselves and report any niggling and not leave it up to suspicion. In addition, mental faculties have to be sharp. The time has long passed for coaches to engage in psychological preparation when any encounter looms.

Managing youngsters could be a tedious exercise. Dreams can be shattered, and despondency could overtake the most innocent suspect. In the ongoing exercise, one has to be patient and cognitive of all the scenarios.

Time is the healer of all wounds. That is a line from a popular Vincentian calypso penned by Lloyd ‘Lord Hawke’ Providence. For some, it seems that time is standing still since that unfortunate obstacle in Dominica. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has proven its resilience ever so often. There is the capacity to rebound. No matter how difficult it appears, there is that indomitable spirit that defines our character.

It is well-known, for Joseph Chatoyer is our national hero. His legacy is one of patriotic fervour. We have carved out such a pedigree. That is perhaps our most enduring legacy. So, when we face the odds, or we sometimes by our own discord sow seeds of discontent, it should be viewed as norm. There are grounds on which we can still stand strong and continue in the vein for which we have become embodied.

Hooper, Pope star for FLOW Radcliffe ASIF HOOPER’S ten-wicket match haul and Gidron Pope’s two half centuries inspired FLOW Radcliffe to a commanding 122-run win over Victors One, in one of last weekend’s matches in the NLA Premier Division of the National Cricket Competition.

FLOW Radcliffe batted first in the match played at Arnos Vale One and made 221 for 5, led by half centuries from Gidron Pope, 59 and Deron Greaves, 58. Kenson Dalzell picked up 2 for 42 and Luke Wilson 2 for 50 bowling for Victors One. Victors One in reply were bowled out for 140 in their first innings.

Kenson Dalzell top scored with 47, but could do little more to prevent Asif Hooper picking up 5 for 49 and Richie Richards 3 for 15.

With a lead of 81 on first innings, FLOW Radcliffe declared their second innings on 122 for 3 led by a strokedfilled 79 by Pope.

Set 204 for the outright win, Victors Ray Charles had 7 for 39 One crumbled for 81 all out. Atticus Browne for Saints

Rickford Walker led with 97 in Police Two second innings. contributed 31 of that total, with Hooper bagging 7 for 33, to end with match figures of Asif Hooper 12 for 82. bagged match In the other figures of 12 weekend match for 82. played at Sion Hill, Guardian General Saints, led by Ray Charles’ 7-wicket haul, took first innings points from Police Two. Police Two had no answer to the pace of Charles who snared 7 wickets for 39 runs in Police Two’s paltry 71 all out.

Guardian General Saints replied with 193, Jordan Samuel hitting 58 and Seon Sween 47.

Darius Martin took 3 for 17 and Cosnel Morris 3 for 31.

Trailing by 122 runs, Police Two put in an improved batting performance to be 240 for 5 when the match was called. Rickford Walker led with 97 and Kevin Abraham was not out on 66. Geron Wyllie took 3 for 66.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Survivors, Tigress record big wins DEFENDING champions United Survivors and J.G Tigress and Sons recorded comfortable wins in last weekend’s opening round of matches of the National Women Super 40 Overs Cricket Tournament.

Cordel Jack took 5 for 9 for Survivors.

First Division Cricket Round-Up IN LAST weekend round of matches in the NLA 50 Overs First Division of the National Cricket Competition, there were victories for Smashers, Keegan’s Bequia XI and Police One. Smashers beat Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward by 3 wickets. Scores: North Windward 65 in 27 overs - Veno Da Souza 53, Javid Harry 4 for 48, Darren Russell 4 for 53; Smashers 166 for 7 from 20 overs - Kirton Lavia 64. Phillip Baptiste 3 for 39.

Keegan’s Bequia XI maintained their unbeaten record with a 78-run win over Radcliffe Two. Scores: Keegan’s Bequia XI 212 in 37.1 overs Cosmus Hackshaw 46 and Jarell Edwards 42, Kyle Bobb 4 for 25; Radcliffe Two 134 all out in 28.4 overs - Webster Robantop 31, Iran Mack took 4 for 28 and Chelson Stowe 3 for 21.

Police One crushed St Vincent Distillers Glamorgan by 121 runs. Scores: Police One 235 from 36 overs - Parnel Browne 65, Adolphus Campbell took 3 for 36; Glamorgan 114 from 26.2 Gerald Gould 3 for 15, Vertil Davis 3 for 24 and Browne 3 for 31.

United Survivors Edelyn Turtin defeated CJ MSDA stroked 54 not Julius Anthony out for JG Northern Stars by Tigress and nine wickets.

Sons.

Northern Stars were bundled out for 55 in 13.2 overs, with Cordel Jack doing most of the damage in the Northern Stars innings with figures of 5 for 9.

United Survivors responded with 56 from 8 overs.

Kimone Homer led with an unbeaten 24.

JG Tigress & Sons earned an easy win over Radcliffe Girls.

Radcliffe Girls made 89 for 7 after 18.4 overs.

Tomeisha Brackin led the batting with an unbeaten 32.

Stacy-Ann Adams was the best Tigress bowler with figures of 5 for 6 in 5.4 overs. JG Tigress and Sons replied with 92 for 1 from 9 overs, led by a top score of 54 not out by Edelyn Turtin.

Stacy-Ann Adams bagged 5 for 6 for J.G Tigress and Sons.

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020. 27.

Classifieds

Witness accuses police of threatening him

Continued from Page 4.

Harry replied, “When I was at the Hospital, the police come and force me to give statement. They come and threaten me and tell me dey go throw me in jail if I don’t give statement�.

Harry also said that some of what he said in the statement was true, but the police made up some of it.

But the witness added he could not remember what part of it was true and what was false.

However, when Nelson asked him whether some of the things he said during the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) at the Serious Offences Court were not true, Harry admitted, “Some of them were not true�.

Justice Brian Cottle then asked, “Mr. Harry, you told the attorney for the prosecution that you are here because you got shot, you can’t remember who shot you?�

Harry replied, “So, the thing happen so long I can’t remember�.

The trial went on following Harry’s testimony, but later that day he was taken into custody for questioning in

relation to the possibility of having perjury charges laid against him.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that he was interviewed at the

Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and released pending advice from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).(HH)

CECIL MCGREGOR WILLIAMS

MATTHEW MARK SPRING

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FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 21, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.08

www.thevincentian.com

T-MAN LANGUISHES IN UNION ISLAND

and is in need of medical attention after suffering a rat bite in his makeshift habitation.

There was even an indication that he survives off the charity of others for meals and clothing.

Last Saturday, on The Finding T-Man CTVIEW Show aired on NICE Radio and hosted by Carlyle T-Man’s whereabouts were Douglas, a plea was made by a discovered in a rather roundabout former pan player and associate of manner.

T-Man, Clive ‘Bish I’ Bishop, via When an associate of THE telephone from New York, for VINCENTIAN inquired about persons to assist this “cultural having a tenor pan built here, he icon who has fallen on hard was told that the majority of the times.” pans are now purchased out of The appeal got going with a Trinidad which provided chromed $200.00 donation, and further pan, a service unavailable contributions can be made to Nice currently in SVG. Radio Station Manager/ Owner Furthermore, the persons of Douglas De Freitas. whom the inquiry was made, Attempts to reach a suitably remarked that “even though, yo positioned member of the Youlou cyar gey a pan here ‘cause nobody Pan Movement (YPM) to address know wey T-Man dey.”

T-Man’s situation did not bear Further inquiries regarding the fruit. whereabout of T-Man provided It is the hope, though, now that the information, later confirmed, the pan fraternity is aware of the that he was alive, but not well, conditions under which one of the and was living in a shack in YPM’s stalwarts ekes out an Union Island, where he labours to exitance, that something would be build and tune steelpans. done to uplift the body and soul of Reports from Union Island this unsung Vincentian hero. indicate that he is unable to walk, It appeared to many that TMan had simply “walked off the face of the earth,” as one pan person said when asked about the last time T-Man was sighted in Kingstown.

Clinton Jimmy James, aka TMan, might just be the single most significant contributor to the development of steel orchestras here.

Stories by CARLYLE DOUGLAS ANY MEMBERS of the steelband fraternity dating back over the last six decades or so would have, more than likely, interacted with or heard about Clinton Jimmy James, aka ‘TMan’, aka ‘Tall Boy’.

Clinton James was the most sought after pan builder and tuner for much of the referenced six-decade period.

There was not a band, not so much the new Pan Against Crime bands, that would not have had the touch of T-Man, the genius TMan. Many a steel orchestra would have reveled at Victoria Park and gone on to win the prestigious Panorama title with pans built and tuned by T-Man. Then the advent of chromed pans from Trinidad and Tobago.

The ‘shack’ which T-Man calls home in Union Island.

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Garbage pile-up in Layou is causing concern.

Garbage complaints in Layou RESIDENTS of Layou are up in arms about the lack of attention given to garbage control and disposal in their town.

At least two residents, who preferred to remain unnamed because of what they say is a fear of “political backlash”, made their feelings known to THE VINCENTIAN. According to one of those residents, several complaints have been made to the highest level of the Ministry of Health. These complaints have to do with the indiscriminate dumping of garbage on the beach, and the failure by the authorities to have it removed.

This is not only unsightly, but the garbage eventually becomes strewn next to a pre-school, the Layou Primary School and a popular Bar and Restaurant.

The resident complained about the stench and the fact that insecticides and disinfectants have now become staple purchases in the household, given the abundance of roaches that have found “comfort” among the garbage and properties nearby.

The other resident had a complaint that directly affected the property he occupied. The situation was that garbage was now being thrown onto his property.

Up to Press Time (Wednesday), efforts to contact relevant authorities in the Ministry of Health and the Layou Town Council were all to no avail.

THE VINCENTIAN understands the plight of these residents, especially when it is recalled that a relatively recent public announcement by the Ministry of Health, warned about the spread of leptospirosis.

They are appealing for attention to be paid to their complaints before something bigger happens.

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