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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 23, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.38

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Workmen begin the demolition of the covering of the Chill Sport.

Workers and proprietor Lance Oliver (seated right) strike a mood of disbelief as they view the demolition of their ‘bread and butter’.

business place from which has been operating a restaurant and bar at Arnos ATTORNEY MAFERN MAYERS-OLIVER, wife Vale. of businessman Garth ‘Lance’ Oliver, Planning took issue with the owner of ‘Chill Spot’, Arnos Vale, is operation of the business, stating in the unhappy with the way the Physical August 31 notification that two previous Planning and Development Board (PPDB) notices were served back in 2014 and went about the demolition of her Appeal submitted 2015. husband’s place of business on The first notice in 2014 cited that Wednesday. When contacted, Oliver referred THE Oliver was operating a business without The demolition following a VINCENTIAN to his wife who confirmed the necessary permission, and in 2015, it notification dated August 31, that was that her husband had in fact submitted stated that without Planning permission a formal appeal to Physical Planning, he erected a covering over the parking but nothing was communicated back to lot designated to be the parking area for Attorney Mafern Mayers-Oliver, wife of them. another of Oliver’s businesses, ‘Rent and businessman Garth ‘Lance’ Oliver, Drive’. That is until they — Planning owner of ‘Chill Spot’, sees certain authorities - moved in with a team to discrepancies in the whole Planning demolish that section of Oliver’s Continued on Page 3. and Building process. by DAYLE DA SILVA

sent to Oliver from the Planning Board, giving him until September 16 to comply with the order to cease operation. The business remained open, and information received was that Oliver was going to appeal the decision.

2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 3.

News 3

Aqua structure demolished BUSINESSMAN GARTH ‘LANCE’ OLIVER is not the only one whose business was disrupted earlier this week. A team of workmen was seen demolishing a nearby operation Aqua, known as an outdoor ‘roast meat’ operation. Information surfaced at the end of last month, after a notice was served by the Physical Planning and Development Board

on Oliver, that he had two weeks from August 31 to shut down his business, following his alleged failure to comply with Building and Planning regulations. However, there was no definite word on the future of Aqua, even after residents had accused that business place of also making their lives uncomfortable. They complained about

No definite word on woman’s fate

Right: The Aqua facility being demolished on Wednesday morning about the same time Chill Spot was also being demolished.

loud music, sometimes being played into the early hours of the morning and at high levels, and the smoke which emanated from the grill. Following the word that Oliver was being shut down, nothing was heard about the future of Aqua, other than they were told to move their operations indoors. Despite several attempts to obtain a comment from the Director of Planning. THE VINCENTIAN was unable to do so. (DD)

THE WOMAN who is accused of abandoning her newborn baby in a pit in Fitz Hughes last week Wednesday, could be charged with infanticide among other crimes, but this will be determined after a meeting between the Director of Pubic Prosecution (DPP) and the officer leading the investigation. This indication follows on the news that the infant male had since died at Continued from Front Page. the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. Head of the Criminal Investigations Department, Order for demolition Superintendent of Police (SP) Ruth Jacobs, told THE VINCENTIAN the Mayers-Oliver further meeting referred to was expected to explained that a copy of the have taken place within the last two order for the demolition of her days. It was anticipated that the information involving the case would husband’s restaurant was have been presented to the DPP for served to their lawyer after consideration into whether or not the the demolition process was young woman, who gave birth to the complete, sometime child, would be arrested and charged. Wednesday morning. “I am hoping that they will meet “We expected that the today or tomorrow,” Jacobs said on order would be stayed until Wednesday. the appeal (against the order Among the information to be to cease operations) was provided will be the woman’s medical heard,” Mayers-Oliver report, this according to Jacobs. explained. The woman was admitted to the She said that she saw a Milton Cato Memorial Hospital copy of the demolition order (MCMH) following the incident, but is after the process was said to have since been discharged. complete, and it was there As for now, the public, especially that Planning made known its the irate residents of Fitz Hughes reason for going ahead with who discovered the infant, and who the order. have been calling for the woman’s But nothing was formerly arrest, would have to wait to know if communicated to either her or legal action will be taken against her. her husband, and MayersThe identity of the woman has not Oliver is contending that been revealed to the media, however, according to the Town and she is said to be in her early thirties Country Planning Act, Section and is a mother of three. She is also said to have a history of 18.10, paragraph five of the Act, it states that the order mental illness and alcohol use. ought to be stayed until the But when questioned, SP Jacobs appeal is heard. told THE VINCENTIAN that she was It was also stated that the not aware of the woman having a Olivers needed to submit the history of mental illness. (DD)

Owners unhappy with demolition appeal directly to the minister; however MayersOliver said that under Section 18.10, it says that the appeal may be submitted to the Board; later in Section 27 it mentions making the submission to the minister. “It seems that Planning is more powerful than the law of the land,” Mayers-Oliver told THE VINCENTIAN. She further explained that they were served notices on three occasions, the first in which Planning cited them of not applying for a change of use of the said property. But Mayers-Oliver said that her interpretation of the Act suggested that there was no need to apply to operate a restaurant, seeing that the Arnos Vale property was always listed as a commercial property. When the demolition team showed up on Wednesday morning, neither MayersOlivver nor her husband was on the premises. When they did arrive and requested documentation authorizing the demolition, the response was that no documentation was needed. And with the accusation that Oliver was not in

compliance, Mayers-Oliver said that she did not understand what that meant.

the said committee earlier this year was evidence that her husband had done all in his power to try to co-exist with the residents. In fact, Efforts to appease according to Mayers-Oliver, residents the committee members indicated that they were Mayer-Oliver also told satisfied that Oliver made THE VINCENTIAN that a satisfactory adjustments so as committee comprised of not to be considered offensive residents and the three to nearby residents. operators, Oliver, Trotman But she said that she does and the proprietors of Aqua, not know if that report was met to work through a compromise that would allow ever sent to the PPDB. “We always cooperated for their continued operation. Trotman made the decision with the people,” MayersOliver said. to cease his roast meat “In the beginning, we got it operation, with ‘Chill Spot’ wrong, but it is like we are and ‘Aqua’ remaining open. being reminded of what we However, Mayers-Oliver told THE VINCENTIAN that did,” she continued. As for the future, Mayersher husband implemented Oliver said that she does not some changes to his operations, including playing think that she wants to go his music at a moderate level down the road of bringing a lawsuit against Planning. and designating a parking “It’s a long process, justice area for patrons of the delayed is justice denied,” she restaurant so as to avoid said. traffic build-up. She said that they are She admitted that the smoke remained an issue, but working on plans, including addressing some of the issues that after meeting with the Department of Public Health, that were highlighted. Once completed, they will it was suggested that they put be submitting them to the the grill on the roof, which PPDB for approval, Mayersher husband did. Oliver assured. A visit by the members of

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4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

„Deplorable conditions hampering CourtÊs progress‰ Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS DAME JANICE PEREIRA, Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC), has lamented that “The lack of proper physical facilities in member states, continues to hamper the Court’s progress in fulfilling its mission, and thus negatively impacts access to Justice.” And she is again calling on states to urgently address these matters. Dame Janice Pereira, Chief Justice of the “The Court rooms and ECSC, delivered her address from St. Lucia, other facilities in many of and did not hold back on calling on Member our member states and States to live up to their responsibilities to the The historic building that houses the High Court in SVG also accommodates territories are in deplorable Justice System in the jurisdiction. the Parliament. Is it time for a separate Hall of Justice? condition and have been so for several years. There are some of the technology which the court She added that it is also the state’s Hindering effective justice deficiencies that are so basic as to be wishes to utilize for bringing greater responsibility to provide adequate shocking. efficiency into the system, and for resources to those who are tasked with The Chief Justice pointed out that “The Halls of Justice Project, streamlining and simplifying various the detection, investigation and the court cannot achieve true formulated by the Court for the court processes that are more prosecution of crimes. accessibility and equal access to construction of adequate court beneficial to the public, are simply The judge underscored that this is Justice in a vacuum. It must be facilities, has been put forward, incompatible with archaic, dilapidated crucial to the administration of the adequately funded. discussed and discussed, and and dysfunctional physical spaces and Criminal Justice System. She outlined that it is the regretfully is still being discussed for buildings, which lead to frustration on “Physical structures, irrespective of responsibility of the states and more than a decade,” the Chief Justice the part of court users, and leaves how becoming, may as well be nonterritories to provide, to the Judiciary, lamented, during a special High Court much to be desired in instilling a sense existent unless the necessary human adequate financial resources, as well sitting of the Eastern Caribbean of purpose, importance and confidence, resources are deployed to utilize and as adequate physical facilities and Supreme Court on Tuesday September by the public in the courts.” fill them. Too often one hears the related infrastructure, among other 20, to mark the opening of the new refrain of a lack of confidence in the things. law year. Justice System from victims of crimes, Deploying human resources “If our citizenry is to truly enjoy Her remarks were heard at the and from persons accused of crime access to justice in a way that is proceedings here during a live alike. This means that access to justice Justice Pereira said that for too effective and meaningful, these simulcast from St Lucia, from where long, the Judiciary has been made to is not truly achieved,” she explained. deficiencies must be addressed — not she delivered the address. “make do” with precious little, while at The Chief Justice pointed out that another decade from now, but as a The ceremony was held under the this is a serious shortcoming, which the same time, the citizenry holds matter of urgency,” she stressed. theme, ‘The ECSC- The Movement must be addressed by all stakeholders, According to the Chief Judge, “Most great expectations. Towards An Accessible Court’. in restoring and maintaining public confidence in this judiciary. She admitted that members of the legal profession, must also bear some responsibility for advancing access to the courts and access to justice. She urged practitioners to remain astute and vigilant in the A PLEA HAS BEEN MADE for the mission, and thus negatively impacts critique of existing and proposed courts and judiciary to be moved up the access to justice,” and called on laws, and a voice in ensuring that ladder of priorities for increased member states to urgently address they are proportionate, that they budgetary allocation. such matters. (See article on this bear a rational connection to the The plea came from René Baptiste, page.) aims to be achieved, and that they President of the local Bar Association While Baptiste does not believe that generally meet the needs of society. and former Minister of Tourism and St. Vincent and the Grenadines is “If it is true that I sound like a Culture in the ruling Unity Labour among the worst in the region, in this broken record, then so be it. I will Party (ULP) administration. regard, she admits that the physical continue the drumbeat for “When I was Minister, I learned how facilities for court need upgrading. improvements until the sound of the budgetary allocations are made, and I “The current facilities are not falling tree in the forest is heard,” am making a plea for the courts and suitable, and no longer meet modern the Chief Justice declared. the judiciary, to be moved up the requirements,” the Bar President told ladder of priorities for increased THE VINCENTIAN. Some outspoken judges and budgetary allocation,” Baptiste told “The time has certainly come for us magistrates in St. Vincent and the THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. to move from policy position, for us to Grenadines have in the past, She had made similar comments move to the actual construction of the complained at public fora about the while delivering remarks at a special Hall of Justice in St. Vincent and the conditions under which they have to High Court sitting here on Tuesday, to Grenadines, so that we would be in a René Baptiste, President of the SVG work. mark the opening of the new Law Year. better position to administer justice for Bar Association, has added her voice In fact, repairs were done to the Dame Janice Pereira, Chief Justice all the courts (and) for our citizenry to to the need for improved court and High Court building some years of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme have quality access to justice,” judiciary facilitaties. ago, after then High Court Judge Court, in her address, which was Baptiste stated. Frederick Bruce-Lyle, now documentation of the criminal and civil brought via a live simulcast from St. She pointed out that there is need deceased, had complained during a courts, as well as administration areas Lucia, stated that, “Lack of proper for facilities, including: modern law sitting of that Court, about the to facilitate the court office operations physical facilities continues to hamper libraries, judge’s chambers, mediation and the public, and facilities for legal conditions there at the time. the court’s progress in fulfilling its rooms, storage for the multiplicity of practitioners.

‘Current facilities not suitable,” says Bar Chief

V Mustique Charitable Trust marks milestone

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 5.

News

Monthly Free Walk-in Diabetes and Hypertension Screenings were conducted at the three C. K. Greaves Supermarkets. (Photo Credit: Mustique Charitabe Trust.)

IT HAS TOUCHED the lives of an estimated 6000 people since its inception in August 2012. That is the numerical impact of the Mustique Charitable Trust (MCT) sponsored Walk-in Diabetes and Hypertension Screening programme. Intended to raise the awareness about the high incidence of diabetes and hypertension in St Vincent and the Grenadines, and ways to control these silent

diseases, the free screening exercises have been conducted monthly at the three outlets of the C. K. Greaves Supermarkets — Kingstown, Arnos Vale and Pembroke. The actual screening has been conducted by trained personnel from the Retired Nurses Association who, according to a release from the MCT, ‘conduct the confidential tests and give advice as needed, including immediate referrals to health clinics

and personal doctors if the need arises.’ The telling impact of the programme, as per the release referred, is that many of those who have made use of the free, professional screenings have ‘followed the advice of the retired nurses, and their conditions have shown improvement.’ And as the MCT and the Retired Nurses look back on the success of their effort, they thought it fit to show appreciation to the

public. Towards that end, the Trust recognized six clients who have returned for testing regularly, and followed advice from the nurses and adopted a healthier lifestyle. The six so honoured were: June Boyea — Cane Garden; Cecile George — Rivulet; Sylvia Lewis — Barrouallie, Leslie Griffith — Buccament Bay; Sterling Russell — Golden Vale; and Yvette Gittens — Arnos Vale. The honouring and celebration took place

yesterday, September 22, at the C.K. Greaves Supermarket, Arnos Vale. The Mustique Charitable Trust (MCT) was established in 2008, with the mission to improve the

opportunities for children, young people and vulnerable adults, while supporting the development of sustainable local communities throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Vincy cultural group electrifies at annual showcase Story and photos by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com

US CORRESPONDENT VINCENTIAN AND OTHER CARIBBEAN cultural aficionados got more than their monies’ worth at an

Angus “Brigo” Lynch entertains audience with “Welcome to SVG.”

electrifying cultural show two Saturday nights ago, at the Miracle Temple Ministries in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, New York. The standing-room-only 11th annual cultural package, hosted by the United Vincie Cultural Group (UVCGB), attracted a diversity of Caribbean nationals, including Jamaicans, Guyanese and Trinidadians. “To me, it was another mission fully accomplished,” said UVCGB president Dr. Roxie Irish. “I’m pleased with our performance…. This year, we had more diversity,” Dr. irish added. The Christian and former St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ national netball star emphasized, “We’re selling St. Vincent and the Grenadines to people we don’t know. We’re on a quest to be the best promoters of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.” UVCGB members performed a number of selections, dramatizations, skits and dances, including new ones

United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn during a choral presentation.

Ska dancing by Jamaican Nikhidia Harris and her dad. written by choreographer and producer Randolph ‘Randy’ Liverpool and Ada Johnson, a lawyer and retired Registrar of the High Court in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Both Liverpool and Johnson hail from Georgetown. Most of the folk and other songs were arranged by Gordon ‘Don’ Sutherland, a renowned cultural figure, also from Georgetown, and founding member of the defunct band Affetuousos. The four-hour-long show also featured, among others, ‘Welcome to SVG (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)’ by former

Right: Miss United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn 2016 Ronissha Marksman, 29, after being crowned by President Dr. Roxie Irish.

Vincentian calypsonianturned-gospel artiste Angus ‘Brigo’ Lynch; Trinidadian comedienne Susan Kennedy, and Ska dancing by Jamaican Nikhidia Harris and her dad. “The cultural show was excellent,” said Liverpool, who, a year ago, moved to New Jersey, from where he commutes for rehearsals in Brooklyn. “The hectic schedule of rehearsals and preparations have paid off big time! “All members of the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn performed exceptionally

well,” added the former school teacher in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and retired detective superintendent in Bermuda. “I am so proud to be a member and choreographer of the group.” He said supporters have even compared the UVCGB to the Georgetown Folk Creation Group, of which he was an integral part in the mid70s. “It appears that the audience was greatly entertained by the variety of renditions we performed — folk songs, skit, dances, choral speeches, comedy, etc. — and everyone got their money’s worth,” Liverpool said. “I am also filled with joy that I am part of promoting Vincy culture in the USA and keeping the culture alive amongst the Vincy Diaspora. “Most importantly, we are doing so for a good cause — to provide medical supplies to clinics and hospitals in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and to help others in dire need, which can ultimately make an immense positive difference in the lives of fellow Vincentians,” Liverpool added. Sutherland said the group’s performance is improving by leaps and bounds. “Each year our group is performing at a higher level,” he said, stating that three new original folk songs — “Keep Our Culture Alive”, written by Johnson, and “Callin List” and “Where all the Childhood Days Gone”, written by Liverpool —

were up-tempo folk songs, “which touched our audience.” “It took me a couple of years to get my buddy Randy (Randolph) to move to the Tri-State (area) to join the group,” Sutherland said. “His presence is helping us raise the bar.” He said the band — with him on lead guitar, Jeffery Holder on guitar, Ike Jeffers on bass, Raul “Winky” Decaul on keyboard, and Uwusu Slater on drums — “did an excellent job. “Our group loves SVG very much, and we are giving back to our fellow Vincentians,” Sutherland said. “Our goal is to promote folk culture in SVG and in the Caribbean community in America.”

Trinidadian comedienne Susan Kennedy.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 7.

Court

Lawyer recommends mentorship system

mentorship system for young made adequately accessible. She added that effective he added. lawyers. access to justice is not On the issue of legal With a proper mentorship Coombs made the advanced or achieved, by practitioners, she stressed system, Coombs felt assured recommendation while engaging in dilatory and that young practitioners would that, “Members of the legal delivering remarks on behalf be able to continue and build profession, have a crucial role deceptive practices, and it is of the Utter Bar, during a to play in ensuring effective their responsibility to uphold on what has already been special High Court sitting on the dignity, respect and established. access to justice, by actively Tuesday, to mark the opening In her address to the special pursuing their clients’ causes, authority of the court at all of the new law year. times. in a timely and efficient sitting on Tuesday, during a Coombs is of the view that a live simulcast from St. Lucia, manner, making the best use She underscored that, “This proper mentorship system is of resources, and by actively responsibility lies at the heart Chief Justice Dame Janice needed for young lawyers, in of delivering justice.” Pereira, outlined a number of assisting the court in dealing order to ensure that the areas in which justice could be with cases justly.” progress which was made over the years in ensuring the functioning of a proper justice system, continues. “All the values and practices should Up to press time, the probe Tedroy be passed on to the TEDROY MC CREE, the man was ongoing, and THE younger lawyers to accused of defrauding several McCree has VINCENTIAN understands persons by offering them ensure continuity. sixty-nine that several other charges of a charges to sailing jobs, was further “When you are remanded when he returned to similar nature, are expected to answer. called (to the Bar), be brought against Mc Cree. court on Tuesday. you do not know There could The 31-year-old Penniston what to expect, and be more. man, who appeared at you do not know Attorney Andreas Coombs the Kingstown how to properly wants a mentorship navigate the choppy Magistrate’s Court, as programme for young the Serious Offences did lawyers so that any tendency waters of the legal profession,” Coombs not sit on Tuesday, was towards bad practices could slapped with 13 more said. be prevented. charges of deception, “Without any proper guidance or bringing the list of Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS mentorship, you can charges in connection with the scam, at press easily develop bad ATTORNEY ANDREAS Coombs practice as lawyer,” time Wednesday, to 69. has recommended a proper Mc Cree has been charged with obtaining by deception, sums of money amounting to thousands of dollars, from several persons. He is alleged to have HIGH COURT JUDGE committed the offences BRIAN COTTLE has on different occasions, at highlighted that various parts of the appreciation is not always country, between shown for the role the September last year and media plays in the court August this year. process. Mc Cree has made Justice Cottle took time several appearances at out to recognize and to the Kingstown show appreciation for the Magistrate’s Court and role of the media, as he the Serious Offences, made his concluding with his list of charges remarks at the special increasing on each High Court sitting on appearance, as police Tuesday, to mark the High Court Judge continued investigations opening of the new Law Brian Cottle singled into several reports of Year. out the media on monies dishonestly “I know that the part which to shower his collected from people for you play in the functioning appreciation. registration and of a proper justice system is not always appreciated,” Justice Cottle said, as he medicals, under the pretence of recruiting expressed gratitude to members of the media who them for sailing jobs on were covering the proceedings. the Royal Caribbean During a High Court sitting some years ago, Cruise Line. Justice Odel Adams, now deceased, had said that Mc Cree pleaded notthe media has an integral role to play in the court guilty to two of the process, as it takes the information from the court charges, which were laid to the public. summarily, but was not It was on Justice Adams’ initiative that a media required to plea to the box was designated in the High Court. That box is others, as they were laid still there and used today. indictably.

69 charges of deception, more expected

Judge appreciates media’s role

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8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 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

Privatise LIAT ROUND AND ROUND we go with one criticism after another about the poor service handed out to us peons by the regional airline LIAT, in which we the people – yes, we the people, not the government - of St. Vincent and the Grenadines hold a sizeable stake. Both Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Opposition Leader Arhnim Eustace have voiced their disgust with the treatment handed out to this country by our airline LIAT. The Prime Minister has gone a step further, using the right and privilege he has, to make this country’s sentiments known to LIAT’s top administrative/management personnel. Shape up, he and Eustace said, both stopping short of saying ‘or ship out’. Questions abound: When are we going to give up on waiting for an operating profit, even as the cost of that wait increases daily? When are we going to admit, once and for all, that LIAT is a drain on our financial resources? When are we going to admit that we can ill-afford to keep forking out public monies to keep an airline that has been fledging for the last sixty years or so, in the skies? When are we going to stop coming up with one strategic plan after another, only to have them added to the already long list of failures? When are our heads of shareholder governments — the custodians of our shares - going to cease all the sidebar alliances, and get down to the business of divesting/privatising the airline? Admittedly, residents of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be scared by any talk of privatizing LIAT, given our particular dependence on its service. But the sad reality is that this country has been fulfilling its fair share of responsibility to LIAT, in very heavy monetary terms, and has had nothing short of the messier end of the service stick from a fledging airline. Does it make any sense — common sense or for that matter ‘common cents’ — to continue to invest beyond our means to keep LIAT in a mode of disservice to ourselves? There are very few, if any, public sector airlines across the globe which are operating above the line. The airline business is no mauby shop — it is as financial intensive as it is labour intensive, with the former being an ongoing, increasing demand, as fleets have to be serviced and replaced, just to stay not too far behind the competition. Let’s be honest. How many shareholder governments/countries of LIAT can currently afford to put in more money as equity? Any fresh borrowing will lead to further imbalance in already weak ‘balance sheets’ of regional governments, and that would be undoubtedly unwelcomed. So what next? Even if there was the slightest improvement in the financial performance of LIAT, this should not be used as a further cue by the government to keep underwriting the tired behemoth. It should instead be used to privatise the airline. Here are but two reasons for privatization. The first is a practical one. The shareholder governments have committed themselves to providing ongoing support for LIAT, especially during the implementation of its current strategic plan. This might not have been realistic at the time of sanctioning the plan for, can we really fulfill this commitment in the face of widening deficit national budgets? The only extra spending that regional governments seem prepared to make is on those activities/undertakings that win a few extra votes or keep them in ‘power’. It is hard to see how financial support for an airline fits into this category, so why are our leaders continuing to have us believe otherwise? The second reason LIAT should be privatized is more ideological. Put simply, governments that are burdened with deficit national budgets which occasion grave difficulty finding money for capital projects especially, should not be running an airline. There is enough private capital eager to do the job, once the conditions are conducive. The truth is governments should not be in the service sector; especially not in the airline business where competition is fierce, margins are for all intents thin, and decisions have to be taken quickly, not labored as government bureaucracy is wont so to do. And even as we call for its privatisation, we hope that LIAT would get its act together so that it can fetch a higher price when it is sold/privatized. Oh, how we long for one shareholder government head who is brave enough to speak the hard truth, i.e. that a government has no business to be in the airline business. Cockroach air ha no place in fowl party, eh?

1972 Election as forerunner to 2016 (Pt 1) FOR COGENT REASONS, including the serious doubts spewed about my totally wrong prediction in the 2015 General Elections, I have presented my elections forecast of forty-four years ago. Neither then nor now was I a card-carrying member of either contesting force. Those 1972 elections ended at 6 PPP, 6 Labour, and Independent Mitchell who put together the Alliance Government by one seat, as it is today! My own gut feeling is not that my prediction in 2015 had been biased, but that there were lacunae in the electoral process, as charged by the NDP. But putting aside the accusations of a rigged election, let us educate ourselves of the names and circumstances of 1972 which were clearly a foretaste of contemporary happenings. I gave a prediction along with character sketch of some 19 candidates, as follows: Inez Joshua (Mrs.), Vincent Beache; Victor Cuffy, E.T Joshua, St Clair Dacon, Levi Latham, R. Milton Cato, Clive Tannis, Arthur Williams, Emmanuel Adams, Randolph Russell, Hudson Tannis, Othniel Sylvester, Roderick Marksman, Theophilus Woods, Samuel Slater, Alphonso Dennie, Son Mitchell, Kelvin Gibson, James Daniel. Of course, it all ended 6:6, and Mitchell demonstrated more skill than even the later Ralph, in successfully demanding the leadership of the combination that was supposed to be as firm as a ‘ROCK’. Some of the names bear recording: Alphonso Dennie-Saga Quarts- who now mourns the death of his son, Olin, had finally put an end to Slater’s hold on North Leeward 1951-1972. Rev James Daniel of Sandy Bay, recently deceased, who had been a teacher in 1972, was defeated but continued as a headteacher in Union Island, courtesy the democratic tenour of Mitchell and the NDP today. The party of his son Montgomery grants no such favours to losing teachers of different stripe. And, lastly, Mitchell’s two nominated members were Edmund Joachim, father of “Cuban Cutlass,” and Jerome Burke, a forgotten father of the Credit Union Movement which celebrated its sixtieth birthday last week. INEZ JOSHUA (Mrs.): Charming, earthy personality; first woman legislator in St Vincent; and is despised by “high heeled” ladies such as range in Labour’s Women’s League, but is adored by ordinary folk; made news by her involvements in PWD affairs 1963; a tremendous campaigner and a loyal supporter of her husband. Will retain her seat in North Windward easily. VINCENT BEACHE: A very practical and intelligent young man; would be an asset to St Vincent in any government; was clearly impressed while studying abroad by the “image” which Labour’s propaganda

machine has managed to project overseas. Not likely to take North Central Windward, but will come within 100 votes of doing so. VICTOR CUFFY: A forceful and dynamic lawyer; perhaps the most left-wing candidate in the coming elections; dedicated to radical and fundamental change in the State. With push and effort should keep North Central Windward PPP. E.T JOSHUA: Veteran trade unionist, politician, and former Chief Minister; a charismatic leader with a personal following built up during the 1950’s when he was the undisputed champion of the down trodden masses; responsible for much of the progressive legislation related to workingclass conditions, and for the political awakening of the masses; a fire-andbrimstone political preacher more appropriate to the turbulent 1950’s than the 1970’s which call for more matter and less art; may yet prove that he has not completely outlived his usefulness; will win his seat in South Central Windward with consummate ease, and stands a fair chance of heading the new Government. ST CLAIR DACON: Boast an impressive educational record which was not given due recognition by a PPP administration; was brought back to the State by Cato —given Cato’s Chambers and the Speakership; acted Governor and recommended by the Labour Party for the OBE; retained as counsel for several of the merchant- financiers of the Labour Party; has lost the common touch; favoured to win the South Windward constituency. LEVI LATHAM: Was once an unassuming and sincere legislator despite his limitations; has certainly been changed by the power he recently wielded: attracts large crowd by his style of speech; has lost some popularity which may cost him the Marriaqua seat despite his Party’s strength there. R.MILTON CATO: Fond of being called the gallant and learned member for East St George; the perfect representative and spokesman for the Vincentian middle-class; an effective speaker who kept the PPP Government on its toes for 6 years; a reasonably good performer in Government, given his belief in aid, image, tourism and law and order; a firm believer in himself and what he stands for, and who therefore tolerates little criticism; rewards friends and punishes enemies with equal fervour; cannot be beaten in East St George in 1972. (To be continued next week).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 9.

Letters

That ÂShip of FoolsÊ

A ‘Chilling’ affair

MR. EDITOR, I read your front page story of last week Friday (September 16, and then I listened to the report carried on SVG TV the same night. Both reports were different, in that your report carried the comments of the residents in the area of Chill Spot, and the SVG report carried the comments of patrons of that business. Now it’s all well and good that people like going to this Chill Spot, but I have one question I want to I WOULD LIKE TO THANK viewer? Not just an will not listen (or see) ask and that is, whether they are more important THE VINCENTIAN entertaining depiction will feel.” This is a than the health of decent, tax-paying, law-abiding Newspaper for publishing of vice and foolishness, political as well as a citizens, the residents of the area? the Robbie item, The Ship but a cautionary visual spiritual message. If I remember well, those residents have Of Fools in last week’s re-imagination and Many, if not most of us complained about this place, and a nearby one, issue. representation of what today sail blissfully, from Day One. They had to live daily with the Certainly this was he saw as the misguided and unaware, content inconvenience and threats to their health and well the beginning point of behaviour all around in our own ignorance, being, not the patrons who spend an hour of so at surrealism in Western him in his time. or unwillingness to act the Spot. European painting, but It is an apt to change things, on the As far as I see it, we have to protect all our what is he telling us, representation of our same Ship Of Fools. citizens but not at the expense of others. If the what did he want these own daily life in St. Chill Spot broke any Planning Laws, it should be images to convey to the Vincent today. “He who HJA made to close. How I remember the hell a certain night spot owner used to get from a certain resort for tourists. That night spot owner had to comply or get VINCENTIANS NEED to been given the right to do so, out of business. something about which we are investigate and discuss the And to make matters worse Atlantic Ocean fishing issue. kept in the dark. in this Chill Spot affair, a big Editor’s Note: This comment first appeared on our My head still hurts from what The fishing industry has the Government senator made a was presented on the fishing rights potential to clear all of SVG’s website. It refers to an article captioned ‘American call for a compromise in the expenses, even the Argyle that SVG has given away for a Journalist critical of Customs and Immigration face of someone breaking a pittance. International Airport, and therein operation’, as carried on page 3 of our issue of law. He must know why. But Certain persons have to answer contribute to improving the lives of as far as I am concerned, if September 02, 2016. to the Vincentian public. Is it that all Vincentians. Why we have not you break the law, you should they don’t know the value of the invested more in the industry is I WAS BORN in Rose Hall, St. Vincent. I love my face the consequences. industry? Is someone or some baffling, and we deserve answers. home island, and proudly pose my Vincentian Flag But you see how the law The fishing rights issue is like a persons getting a kick back? (Note as the front number plate on my vehicle. works. The owner of Chill also that we have not got a report parent who has access to millions However, when I visited my State in Spot says he has appealed the about the offshore bank issue that even billions of dollars but has his November/December 2013, I was very disappointed Planning people notice, so he was raised before the elections.) children hungry and living in to observe how much these two services (Customs is going to remain open. I The fact is our (local) fishermen poverty. and Immigration) had deteriorated. thought if you were told to catch less and less because others As a Trained Customs Officer, I was surprised to close that you should close exploit our fish resources, having Back Street see a senior sitting inside the office while the junior while your appeal is being is outside needing help. I am not criticising, but my heard. Things just not experience made me assume that politics is level here… do you crippling the performance of public servants. We, in remember the case of my days, believed in the “Good Old Adam” who Bigger Bigs? He had to THE EXECUTIVE OF SVG GREEN Language (Grade A), Drama (Grade sweat for duty and not reward. close, ain’t. PARTY warmly congratulates Thomas A), Mathematics (Grade A with May God bless SVG and that public servants, “Do Cox, the grandson of Ivan O’Neal, distinction), English Literature (Grade unto to others that you would want to be done to James Leader of SVG Green Party, on his A), French (Grade A), History (Grade you”. incredible GCSE (CXC) results in A), Religious Studies (Grade A), August 2016 in the United Kingdom. Physics (Grade A), Chemistry (Grade Ormond V.”Bully”Robertson His results were as follows: English A), Biology (Grade A) and Geography (Grade A). Thomas Cox’s mother, Dr Doreen Cox, is Ivan O’Neal’s daughter. She is a Senior the tide is changing rapidly — Consultant in Radiology and thousands will soon be THERE CAN BE no breast cancer treatment in deported from the USA. doubt that SVG is now a IT IS MY STRONG BELIEF rate in SVG will catch up with England. A responsible government beggar society. that Donald Trump will be the Columbia and Mexico, where Mr Ivan O’Neal BSc hons, will replace Digicel, Flow, FLOW is asking us to next president of the USA. That there are some 400 murders a MSc, MBA is a retired British VINLEC, CWSA; revive the beg our loved ones in said, Vincentians should brace day. Like it or not, Donald Royal Air Force Warrant Officer, heartbeat of agriculture; USA and Canada to send themselves for havoc under a Trump is preaching what most abolish the Mustique Act, with honourable and $15 or more worth of Donald Trump presidency. Americans want to hear. distinguished military service. send home undesirables from He has worked in Singapore and credit. Under Donald Trump, Americans want their country Palm Island, Canouan, Union They will give away a seen first-hand the positive thousands of Vincentians now back, and we, the people of island and Mayreau. Take $99 smart phone, and impact high-quality education resident in the USA will be SVG, need to take back our back all our lands, and make fifteen thousand people has on improving peoples’ lives forced to return to SVG if not SVG in order to cater to this and set SVG on the path to will text at $1 to get a and helping a country develop deported; they will not have high influx of returning true independence. freeness. successfully. access to housing, jobs, nationals. It is vital that the I have observed SVG and The sports channel Mr Ivan O’Neal says now is adequate medical facilities; people of SVG have full control its anxieties, and I now know the time for SVG to bring in free they have to screw poor relief will not be able to of our nation’s wealth. I can never resign from Sportsmax, has more pre-schools for all, regardless of sustain many of them. Former governments, like politics; not until I have seen Chinese football than financial status. All children Worst, many of the deportees the current one, have my vision fulfilled. BPL, which most of us must have the opportunity of a will already be conditioned to a continuously ignored the So to DonaldTtrump I say, English speaking people good education to improve their different way of life, including possibility of mass ‘To every action, there is a follow. lives. crime and this will tell on SVG. deportations, and therefore, reaction’. Mr Ivan O’Neal hopes to Don’t bother calling My brothers and sisters of have not implemented any complete the construction and them, since Trinidad or the slave master’s whip, you measures to cater to this. In Kadiel McFee incorporation of the first science Costa Rica will answer. were very concerned about the fact, it is fair to say that and technology university in St. It’s all part and parcel of Garifuna coming to SVG. The because of this past and Editor’s Note: The views Vincent. this ship of human folly. reality is rapidly approaching. present negligence, mass expressed are not necessarily It is my belief that the crime migration has occurred. But those of THE VINCENTIAN. SVG Green Party Robbie

Customs and Immigration

The fishing rights issue

Green Party extends congratulations

Taking back SVG

The ship we live in

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10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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Governance under the ULP

Sports development in SVG

Introduction

THE FAILURE OF THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY (ULP) administration to develop and implement an effective sports policy, has hindered the development of sports in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. At the recently held Summer Olympics, the number of athletes who represented this country was unacceptable, when compared to other Caribbean countries. What is even more disturbing, of the four (4) athletes who represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines, only one (1) was actually qualified to be there. Only one of the four made the standards set by their respective (i.e. sport) international federations. The other three (3) came from addendum policies of the two international federations with the strongest influence on the Olympic Games, the International Association of Athletics Federations and the International Swimming Federation. While the performances were considered fair, we must ask ourselves, why was it that only one athlete made the standards? And, why have our athletes’ performances declined in recent years at regional and international competitions? It must be noted that physical education, the foundation for participation in sport, is not yet compulsory in our educational institutions. Physical literacy is not a familiar term in our culture. The annual budgetary allocation to sport in this country barely makes more than two paragraphs in the budget, and the National Sports Council (NSC), which has a mandate for the development and maintenance of sports facilities, is never provided with a proper annual allocation to meet their needs. Furthermore, the very composition and functioning of the NSC reflect the way the ULP does business. It seems that membership of or support for the ULP is an unwritten criterion for selection to serve on the NSC. Rather than allow for decentralisation of the work needed to facilitate adequate maintenance of playing fields, the workers at the NSC are expected to travel from one facility to another, at times, just to cut grass. Meanwhile, attempts at establishing Area Sports Committees have failed because of the seeming intention of trying to make them too politically biased, much like the National Sports Council itself. Under the ULP government, we have seen the rise of a new phenomenon. The National Lotteries Authority (NLA) now has responsibility for some select sport facilities. This leads to a crossing of the lines between the NLA and the NSC as to their areas of responsibility. The first two playing fields to be constructed under the new arrangement where the NLA is responsible for the fields, were the one at South Rivers and the other at Park Hill, in the Prime Minister’s constituency. The Cumberland Playing Field, also funded by and now under the NLA, was completed for the last general elections but remains officially closed. Perhaps they are waiting on a politically opportunistic moment to open that facility. It is also reported that the upgrading of the Chili Playing Field in Georgetown has also been funded by the NLA, and this may well mean that it would also be left under the NLA’s management. The promise of a national stadium was a ruse to win the votes of the youth, and nothing more. Nearly sixteen (16) years in power, and the stadium, like the Cross Country Road, remains a figment of the political imagination of

IT IS THE CONSIDERED opinion of many objective thinkers in our society, that the period of governance in which the ULP as a political party spearheaded, from March 2001 to the current time, is the best in the history of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Indeed, this statement is unique and significant, when one considers the propaganda of the NDP. Since 2001, the NDP has been predicting that the ULP administration would fall apart, that the party could not last, or even exist as a government. They said that the ULP was bereft of ideas, that there was no experience in governance, despite the presence of the veteran Sir Vincent Beache. They stated that the ULP would implode, and they even coined the phrase “one term papa” to describe the current Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. All this has been proven to be just rubbish talk by the NDP and Arnhim Eustace. Governance is widely regarded as an exercise in the use of authority and control to enhance the viability and prosperity of an organisation. Although this is a simple definition, it applies to the process of government, but with added sophistication, and the use of other strategies. In the case of the ULP administration, issues such as the relationship with stakeholders, the adoption of a clear development policy, leadership, planning and implementation are important.

Good Governance Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has always reiterated the idea of “good government” as a way of saying that the ULP will use its best endeavour, to provide the best system of government possible, for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This is compared to perfect government, which could only be found on the other side of paradise. It is this system of governance that has resulted in a small resourcedchallenged country, holding its own, and indeed prospering in some areas, among CARICOM and other international countries. And so, as an approach to governance, the ULP has devised a doctrine of “people-centred development” as its approach to the social and economic development of the country. This means the party will adopt, as far as it is possible, programmes and strategies to uplift further the quality of life of Vincentians in all walks of life. Out of these bundles of strategies have come key development words and phrases such as “the education revolution” which describes the dramatic about turn in the approach to education, and “turning dead capital into live capital” which captures the new approach to land distribution and acquisition by poor people, in the rural areas. It is worth repeating that the vision of the ULP is centred on our people. The ULP’s philosophy is that of social philosophy fashioned from universal principles. It is based on the selfevident truth, that Vincentians are a magnificent component of our Caribbean civilisation; that we are not better that anyone, and that no one is better than us. It is based on the above, that leaders of the ULP, along with members and supporters of the

party, can speak with confidence and clarity about the plans and programmes of the ULP administration.

Value of Good Governance Perhaps the best example of good governance is related to the way in which the ULP administration has been able to keep the economy steady, over the last ten years. In the face of a global economic and financial crisis, the effects of three storms and two periods of drought, the melt-down from CLICO and BIACO, and the dismantling of the preferential tariffs for the banana trade in Europe, the ULP has kept the country together, and there has been significant advancement. In this case, leadership has proved to be the critical factor. Here and there, Vincentians can point to tremendous gains and achievements. Because of the Education Revolution, thousands of Vincentians are becoming better educated, and the list of those who have progressed to tertiary education is impressive. There has been significant infrastructural development, including the bridge of the Rabacca river, the jet port in Canouan, the construction of the Leeward highway from Kingstown to Layou and the much talked about international airport project at Argyle. Schools, health clinics and police stations have been constructed and repaired. Learning Resource Centres have been built and are being used. Legal frame work and policies have been established for key agencies such as NEMO and the National Lotteries Authority, and the delivery of electricity, water, sanitation, solid waste disposal and telecommunication services, have been enhanced and improved. All these have been achieved because the ULP administration, as a matter of good governance, has been in communion and love, with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Conclusion The ULP has clearly demonstrated that strategic thinking and actions are hallmarks of good governance. You will never find timidity, learned helplessness, pessimism and a lack of faith among the ULP. The party offers boldness, courage, optimism, faith, love, and the grace of right reason, which will lead to progress and a better life. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a far better place in which to live today, as compared to the period before 2001. The country has made remarkable progress in all developmental indices over the last fifteen years. In going forward, the ULP has the compelling vision, practical policies and programmes, to lift the country to a much higher level. That is why in December 2015, the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines returned the ULP and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves for a fourth successive and record breaking term in office.

the ruling ULP leadership. And a second volleyball outdoor court has been in Customs here for almost one year because the Minister of Sport wants it to be located in his constituency, but has failed to make the appropriate upgrade to the surface of the court on which he wishes to locate it in his constituency. The local, regional and international bodies are all very embarrassed. There is no genuine commitment on the part of the government to develop sports. For instance, national sports associations are not receiving any waiver of duty on sports uniforms for national teams. Most athletes often find themselves literally begging for financial support to access higher-level training abroad, as well as to assist them with accessing scholarships abroad, even though the NLA exists; bearing in mind that the NLA has a mandate to support sport and culture. The ULP government loves to talk about sport but has consistently failed to locate it an appropriate role in national development. They continue to treat sport as a frivolous activity involving our youth with nothing else to do. They tinker at the fringes but never really seek to fashion a proper approach. An NDP government would change this. We would have the relevant expertise review the National Sports Policy to ensure its relevance to an approach that locates physical education and sport prominently in the broader national development strategy of the government. Physical Literacy would constitute a prominent feature of our education programme; physical education would be compulsory, beginning at the pre-school level with featured programmes for parental understanding of the importance of their own physical wellbeing to healthy living, and the attendant benefits; and we would engage in a comprehensive forensic audit of the National Lotteries Authority relative to its stated mandate of supporting sport and culture. In addition, the NDP will have the national stadium built, but after consultation with the relevant national sports associations; construct an Indoor Sports Facility for netball, basketball, table tennis, boxing, squash, volleyball and gymnastics. Swimming will be a priority, both in the pool and open water, to further develop that sport. We will also join with the national governing body for swimming, and organise a National Learn to Swim initiative that would go a long way in combating the numerous drownings we hear of so often. We will also work with the private sector as well as with individuals and organisations at home and abroad, to establish a Sports Foundation, not necessarily under the government, to facilitate specific aspects of the sport development process. Sport is a major income-generating proposition, and we would examine the models around us Barbados and the Bahamas - in respect of a focus on sport tourism alongside the development of sport at the local level. The ULP has failed to develop sports. It will only take the NDP administration to effectively develop sports in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 11.

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Growing curiosity

“My favourite words are possibilities, opportunities and curiosity. I think if you are curious, you create opportunities, and then if you open the doors, you create possibilities.” - Mario Testino, Peruvian fashion and portrait photographer. MANY BUSINESSES are looking for employees who are prepared to engage in activities that encourage innovation. However, such traits are not automatically developed. By nature, individuals tend to have an aversion to taking risks; it seems better and less vulnerable to play it safe and simply maintain the status quo. Parents, teachers, and concerned adults play an important role in influencing whether or not the children in their care are socialised to grow or not grow their curiosity. Education, in its truest sense, prepares citizens for life and for living. While it is true that the parents/guardians have a major role to play in this process, teachers and school administrators are also considered to be major contributors to shaping/moulding these young minds. It is therefore imperative that teachers make every effort to encourage curiosity and critical thinking in the wards that have been entrusted to them. This is just as true for the kindergarten teacher as it is for those who interact with participants at the tertiary institutions. Curiosity can stimulate innovation in products, services, operational systems, and so many other aspects of life. Many facets of society improve when citizens are encouraged to use their imagination and are proactively seeking to push the boundaries of science, the arts, and so on. Our children have a natural tendency to be curious. They enjoy investigating their surroundings. This curiosity, if properly harnessed, can lead to many useful inventions. For example, it was the harnessed curiosity of young Grace Brewster Murray Hopper (1906-1992), née Grace Brewster Murray, as she dismantled and reassembled the alarm clocks in the house (at age 7) that provided her with the confidence to pursue studies in the sciences. She specialised in Mathematics and Physics at Vassar College before obtaining her Ph.D. in Mathematics at Yale University. Grace was later part of the team that invented the Common Business-Oriented Language (COBOL) in the early 1960s - the first userfriendly business software programme. Such an outstanding example encourages us to invite children to explore and invent — to grow curiosity. It is most unfortunate that adults (especially parents and teachers) periodically unwittingly discourage curiosity. This is often as a result of our not wanting to have children exposed to physical and/or emotional dangers. This is quite understandable (in relation to their safety). Sometimes we are impatient to have them discover various aspects of life and knowledge for themselves. In our hurry for them to gain the knowledge and insights, we provide them with the answers. There may be a host of other reasons why we gravitate to providing solutions, rather than have them explore — to discover the “pearls of wisdom” with limited guidance. However, we must avoid going so far overboard that we stifle their natural inquisitiveness. We have a responsibility to encourage curiosity in our wards. Curiosity embraces the quest for intelligence, a hunger for newness, and determination that children appear to be born with. As they age, it is imperative that they retain that inquisitive state of mind. That is how

Cell phones, kitchen, bathroom cleansers killing us Reprinted from May 4, 2010

new ideas emerge. That is how innovation occurs. That is how inventions happen. Dr. Jonathan Wai, writing in 2014, provided us with seven ways to inspire curiosity and wonder. He encourages us to read widely and follow our interests; polish our minds with the minds of others; visit a physical bookstore or library and browse the shelves, be willing to ask dumb questions; put a lot of ideas and facts in our heads (and not rely on Google; be an expert who is interested in everything, and advises us to not just focus on puzzles but on mysteries. Each of these seven pointers demand an essay of its own. However, readers can extract a wealth of wisdom from simply exploring the thoughts that emerge, even as these seven “pearls of wisdom” are mentioned. We can pursue each of these topics and discover priceless “jewels of knowledge” as we broaden our horizons and nurture similar experiences in those around us. It will be observed that several of these pointers revolve around reading. Reading widely is one sure way of growing curiosity. While Internet searches have their value, we need to encourage our children to explore the knowledge and insights gleaned from physical books; drawing attention to the fact that accessing knowledge via the traditional books aids in the development of long-term memories. Sir Ken Robinson says it so well when he explains that, “We romanticize the curiosity of children because we love their innocence. But creativity doesn’t happen in a void. Successful innovators and artists amass vast stores of knowledge which they can then draw on unthinkingly. Having mastered the rules of their domain, they can concentrate on rewriting them. They mix and remix ideas and themes, making new analogies and spotting unusual patterns, until a creative breakthrough is achieved.” He continues by stressing that, “Anyone who stops learning facts for himself because he can Google them later, is literally making himself stupid. Children who aren’t encouraged by adults to commit information to their long-term memories are having their potential damaged and their desire to learn stymied.” It must be stressed that this writer is not advocating the discontinuation of searching for knowledge via the Internet. Certainly not. The take-away lesson from the foregoing paragraph is that, while a vast amount of knowledge can be gleaned from the Internet via our computers, androids, and cell phones, this should not occur at the expense of the traditional books. Books still play a major role in transferring knowledge and growing curiosity. Both modes of accessing the information/knowledge highway are important. They both provide opportunities for us to develop depth and breadth of knowledge; they ignite curiosity; and curiosity becomes a useful and priceless conduit to innovation. Curiosity creates opportunities, and those opportunities can blossom out to generate rich, noble, possibilities. As we seek to improve living conditions for all of our citizens, we have a responsibility and privilege to grow curiosity. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

THE U.S. PRESIDENT’S Cancer Panel has issued a report that has serious implication for us here in SVG and the Caribbean. The panel reported that “the true burden of environmentally induced cancers has been grossly underestimated”. The panel pointed to cell phones and other wireless technologies as well as kitchen and bathroom cleansers as potential causes of cancer. In its recommendations, the panel stated “Methods for long-term monitoring and measuring of electromagnetic energy exposures related to cell phones and wireless technologies are urgently needed, given the escalating use of these devices by larger and younger segments of the population and the higher radio frequencies newer devices produce.“. Dr. Ted Schettler, Director of the Science and Environmental Health Network, said “Even if cell phones raise the risk of cancer slightly, so many people are exposed that it could be a large public health burden.” Apart from the risk posed by cell phones and other electronic usage, the report painted a dire picture on cancer risks from chemicals and solvents, especially those used in our kitchens and bathrooms and other hazards in the environment. The report says the proportion of cancer cases caused by environmental exposures has been “grossly underestimated.” It warns of “grievous harm” from chemicals and other hazards, and cites “a growing body of evidence linking environmental exposures to cancer.” Children are especially vulnerable, the panel says. It urges the government to strengthen research and regulation, and advises individuals on ways to limit exposure to potential threats like pesticides, industrial chemicals, medical X-rays, vehicle exhaust and plastic food containers. A cover letter to the report urged President Obama “most strongly to use the power of your office to remove the carcinogens and other toxins from our food, water and air that needlessly increase health care costs, cripple our nation’s productivity, and devastate American lives.” Vincentians must heed similar warnings because so many of our foods, kitchen, bathroom and other products are produced in the USA and imported here for use. Nearly 80,000 chemicals are in use in the United States, and many of these are transferred to SVG and other Caribbean countries, yet only a few hundred have been tested for safety. The report criticizes the nation’s regulatory approach, calling it reactionary rather than precautionary, which means that the government waits for proof of harm before taking action, instead of taking preventive steps when there is uncertainty about a chemical. Regulation is ineffective, the panel says, in part because of inadequate staffing and financing, overly complex rules, weak laws, uneven enforcement and undue industry influence. The report looks at contaminants from a variety of sources: industry, agriculture, air and water, medical imaging and contaminated military sites. It also considers natural hazards, like radon gas in homes and arsenic in

drinking water. The report concludes, “At this time, we do not know how much environmental exposures influence cancer risk.” The report, published on May 6, 2010 has been questioned by the American Cancer Society. Dr. Michael Thun, an epidemiologist from the cancer society, said that the report was “unbalanced by its implication that pollution is the major cause of cancer.” The Cancer Society said while it shared the panel’s concerns about people’s exposure to so many chemicals, the lack of information about chemicals, the vulnerability of children and the radiation risks from medical imaging tests, but warns that the report suggests that the risk is much higher, when there is no proof, and that may divert attention from things that are much bigger causes of cancer, like smoking. “If we could get rid of tobacco, we could get rid of 30 percent of cancer deaths,” Dr Thun said, adding that poor nutrition, obesity and lack of exercise are also greater contributors to cancer risk than pollution. The chairman of the president’s panel, Dr. LaSalle D. Leffall Jr. of Howard University, said the panel stood by the report. “This is an evenhanded approach, and an evenhanded report,” Dr. Leffall said. “We didn’t make statements that should not be made.” He acknowledged that it was impossible to specify just how many cancers were environmentally caused, because not enough research had been done, but he said he was confident that when the research was done, it would confirm the panel’s assertion that the problem had been grossly underestimated. Despite the uncertainties, the panel recommended more research and stronger regulation to protect public health. The report also mentions things that people can do themselves to lower their risks. Among the preventative measures are: #Protecting children by choosing foods, house and garden products, toys, medicines and medical tests that will minimize exposure to toxic substances. ¶Filtering tap water, and storing water in stainless steel, glass or other containers to avoid exposure to toxins and other plastic components that some studies have linked to health problems. Here in SVG we must end the dangerous habit of storing and freezing and then drinking water in plastic bottles. As the plastic bottles freeze, many of the contaminants in the plastic leash into the water we consume. ¶Buying produce grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers, or washing it thoroughly to remove them. ¶Buying meat free of antibiotics and added hormones, and avoiding processed, charred and well-done meat. Again we are reminded that what you don’t know can kill us. Be warned and take control of your life.

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

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12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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High number of repeaters: Evidence of ULP education failure SVG GREEN PARTY agrees with the Honourable Member of Parliament for Southern Grenadines, that there is an alarmingly high number of secondary school repeaters. The children who end up in the secondary school repeaters programme are from poor and disadvantaged families. The high number of repeaters is evidence of the failure of the ULP regime’s education system. Table 1 (pictured at right) shows that since coming to office in 2001, the ULP regime

has consistently under invested in education. They are deliberately condemning children from poor families to a life of poverty. The consequences of this long-term under investment in education have been: many children leave school before school leaving age; many children leave school with no qualifications; and many children are unable to gain employment after school. According to Mr Ivan O’Neal, BSc hons, MSc, MBA, education in SVG is

being driven into the ground. The Honourable Member of Parliament for Southern Grenadines said on SVGBC TV on Wednesday 14 September 2016, that in one class of the secondary school in Union Island, only one child passed the school exam. This is shockingly bad. Both Gonsalves and the Minister of Education should resign for this failure. The United Nations calls on developing countries to spend 20% of their annual budget on education. Leader of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan O’Neal, believes that education in SVG is in such a bad state that more than 20% of the annual budget should be put into education. SVG needs to adopt Singapore’s education development model at independence, put huge amounts of money into education, and provide real high-quality, free education from preschool to university. The focus must be on pre-school and primary education. In its first year of independence, Singapore allotted 59 per cent of the annual education budget to primary education, 27 per cent to secondary education and 14 per cent to higher education. Table 2 (below) shows the annual expenditure on education between 1959 and 1967. Singapore is a World Bank success model. Having a highly educated population has attracted massive

amounts of direct foreign investment for Singapore, created a strong economy and a rich society. Between 2001 and 2016, education investment as a percentage of the budget, has dropped from 5.16% to 1.27% in SVG. This is a 75% decrease. Over the same period, Gonsalves shamefully received a salary increase of 37%, up from EC$105,228 to EC$144,669. He looks after himself while the children of SVG suffer. The bottom line — as usual — is that SVG is losing about EC$3 billion every year in tax exemptions given to Taiwan and the rich of Mustique and Canouan. If we had that money, there would be few, rather than hundreds, of secondary school repeaters, and few, rather than thousands, of our children failing school exams. It is important that we change direction and adopt a new, fair tax system, so that we have enough revenue to provide a high-quality education for all our children from preschool to university. SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org Find us on Facebook and Twitter

Evangelicals hold annual Missions Conference THE EVANGELICAL CHURCHES of the West Indies (ECWI), on Sunday 18th September, held its annual Missions Conference at the Kingstown Evangelical Church. The denomination which is marking its 65th Anniversary of ministry in SVG, was especially pleased to host some 300 participants from the South East Caribbean district of the ECWI. The Conference heard a number of presentations by missionaries serving in other countries, one such person being Ms Annie Bobb, a seasoned missionary, give a comprehensive report of her work over the years. A video report was presented by Derrick and

Adita Juteram, missionaries serving in remote areas of Columbia. The message was shared by Pastor Jean Claude Didier of St. Lucia and president of Advance International (AI), the missions sending arm of the ECWI. He challenged the gathering with his The Kingstown Evangelical message ‘Serving Church was host to the 2016 God’s Purpose for annual Conference of the Our Generation’. Evangelical Churches of the A special West Indies (ECWI). highlight of the evening session was ceremony for six persons the ordinations of two who received their local pastors, Leslie Daize Associate Degree diplomas and Herman Dalzell. from the Evangelical The evening also Institute of Christian included a graduation Education (EICE).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 13.

News

Back to school with Flow Participants in the St Vincent ‘Internet Summer School Programme’.

THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS around the region are now primed for another school year, as Flow rolled out its summer camps and back-to-school initiatives around the Caribbean, to support students and their families. Each year, Flow, the regional communications and entertainment provider, partners with local and national community groups to host youth development camps that provide a positive and fun learning environment, covering everything from sports, technology and career development. As students get ready for the new academic year, Flow has embarked on its annual Back—toSchool initiatives across the region to ensure that students are well prepared to head back to the classroom. In Barbados, Flow teamed up with the Ministry of Community Development to facilitate an ‘IT for Teens Summer Programme’ to sharpen kids’ computer skills. Similarly, in St. Vincent, Flow hosted its Annual Internet Summer School programme for children eight and older, to teach them how to unlock the potential of the Internet. In St. Lucia, the focus was on the classroom of play. There, Flow teamed up with the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports to host the ‘758 Champions Tour,’ which gave sixth grade students a chance to meet with members of the island’s Olympic team. In Jamaica, Flow held its 7th annual Skool Aid event, the biggest back-to-school fair in the Caribbean, that drew more than 30k children, parents and guardians this year. The highly anticipated event is a place where children get free medical and dental examinations; free haircuts and beauty consultations; free book bags and lunch kits; and discounted school supplies.

Olympian Levern Spencer with children at the 758 Champions Tour in St. Lucia.

Jamaican students pose for the cameras with their brand new school bags received at Flow Skool Aid 2016.

Members of the Flow Vision Summer Student Experience Programme share a moment with the caretakers of the Sterling Children’s Home, Barbados.

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14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Culture

New festival for Independence A GRAND INDEPENDENCE FIESTA is on the cards for this year’s Independence celebrations. With the demise of the more than promising Motor Cross from the

Left: Partrons can expect to be thrilled by the acrobatics of local riders and others.

Independence calendar of events, Vincentians felt a gap which another organization here is about to fill. Vincy Motorsports Club of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (VIMOC-SVG) has announced that it has received the endorsement of the Ministry of Tourism, Local drivers are anxious to get Sports and back on the track. Culture, for the Club’s Saturday October 29, 2016 staging of a grand Motorbike Display & Independence Fiesta’ Family Fair, Rugby Sevens — a festival of sports, and 3x3 Basketball ~ Sound culture and music — Clash Competition, Arnos dubbed ‘Motorsports Vale Sporting Complex Culture Fest’. (Presented by SVG The Fiesta, Motorcycle Club); Sunday described as a “multi- October 30, 2016 - Diamond disciplinary set of Rally and Motocross with events,” is scheduled Local Craft and Food Fair, for October 23 — 30, Diamond Race Track 2016. (Presented by Vincy A meeting of Motorsports Club) ~ Closing representatives of Ceremony & After Party national sports and And while local cultural associations patronage of the Fiesta is on Tuesday, anticipated, VIMOC-SVG September 20, agreed has indicated that it will on a fixture of events extend invitations to motoras follows: Sunday sports enthusiasts in the October 23, 2016 region, to join Vincentians Drag & Wind Street in marking the Challenge, Kingstown inauguration of what is (Presented by Kart destined to become an Club SVG & Vincy annual affair. Motorsports); ‘Motorsports Culture Thursday October 27, Fest’, according to VIMOC2016 - Motorbike Ride SVG, is the Club’s to Owia, AMP Inde demonstration of its Music Stage & Vincy commitment to contribute Motorsports 1/8 Drag to building awareness of the Challenge & Kart culture in the Caribbean, Klash, Arnos Vale lifting our appreciation of Sporting Complex; independence, developing Friday October 28, an appreciation for the 2016 - 4x4 Island various sporting disciplines, Adventure and and generating visitor Inaugural Kingstown arrivals. Street Festival;

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 15.

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16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Students at the Kingstown Anglican School pose with their Digicel backpacks with Digicel’s Country Students at the Mary Hutchinson Primary School along with Digicel’s PR Exec. Jamisha Wright. Manager John Davies.

Digicel hands out school supplies WITH JUST A FEW WEEKS into the new school year, telecommunication company Digicel has joined forces with the Ministry of Education to ensure that the nation’s youths are properly equipped, and ready to take on what the new school year throws at them. A total of nine primary schools, identified by the Ministry of Education, benefited from Digicel’s Back to School drive - Fitz Hughes Government, Kingstown Anglican, Stubbs Primary, Langley Park Government, Bequia Anglican, Canouan Primary, Mary Hutchinson in Union Island, Mayreau Primary and the Sion Hill Government School. The back to school drive saw a minimum of fifty (50) needy children, selected by the respective principals from each school, receiving Digicel backpacks with stationery, and pencil cases packed with pencils, erasers, rulers, sharpeners among other things. To ensure that the Digicel Back to School campaign was effective and achieved its intention of touching the life of each

child, a number of Digicel managers including the newly appointed country manager- John Davies, took the time out to visit the above mentioned schools over the period of a week; encouraging and speaking to the students on the importance of staying in school, and getting a sound education. Digicel’s Marketing Manager Danielle Cupid said she is more than satisfied with the execution and reception of the Back to School drive. She assured that Digicel will continue to design campaigns to give back to and enhance and improve the quality of life of not only its customers, but as many citizens as possible across all of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. She urged the students to care for the bags and their contents. The Ministry of Education, principals and students of the benefiting schools thanked Digicel for continuing to deliver on its promise to uplift the Vincentian populace, and for not forgetting Vincentians who are less fortunate.

Students at the Fitz Hughes Government School along with Digicel Reps. Charles Villarreal and Danielle Cupid.

Students at the Langley Park Government, Principal and Digicel Reps. Charles Villarreal and Danielle Cupid.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 17.

News

Night for a UWI Open Campus Latin Cause Literary Fair: A Cultural Callaloo

AFTER A BREAK IN 2015, the Annual Literary Fair is back as part of the University of the West Indies Open Campus’ and the Association of Vincentian Artists Writers and Producers contribution to the cultural calendar for this year’s Independence celebrations. From October 13th to the 15th 2016, the grounds of the Open Campus will be transformed into a cultural callaloo of Art, Books, Poetry, Song, Dance and Pan. While the primary focus will be to encourage more Vincentians at home and abroad, at all strata of our society, to read and write as this year’s theme suggests, “Vincy: Read and Write”, the Literary Fair The Literary Fair returns to the grounds of the UWI Open Campus, is also an opportunity to showcase after a break of one year. new and emerging Vincentian talent in the visual and performing finish at 3:00 pm. It will include among other arts. The patrons will, no doubt, have the things, story telling, riddles, ‘old time’ games and opportunity to immerse themselves and relish the the reading of pieces by participants in this year’s sweet artistic songs and moves to the more national reading competition. It promises to be a experienced artists. The Literary Fair will officially open on Thursday treat that your child wouldn’t want to miss. The October 13th at 5:30 pm at the grounds of the Open curtain will come down at 6:00 pm, with the screening of at least two local documentaries on Campus with an Opening Ceremony to be followed by a Reception. This would however be preceded by important aspects of our cultural heritage. The Open Campus and the Association of an Exhibition at 10:00 am. Vincentian Artists Writers and Producers therefore The Ceremony will definitely be a foretaste of what’s to come on Friday 14th dubbed, ‘An Evening invite individuals interested in participating in this year’s Literary Fair to contact the following for of Pan Poetry and Dance’ hosted by the Vincentian more details: UWI Open Campus, Tel: (784) 456Association of Artists Writers and Producers. A 1183 or 485-6606, Email: svg@open.uwi.edu or feature of this activity is the Poetry awards uwisvg@gmail.com OR Vincentian sponsored by the Association. Association of Artists Writers and The Fair climaxes on Saturday, October 15th Producers Inc., Tel: 784 457 2524, with a Children’s Village and a Film Night. The Email: rene@karibcable.com. Children’s Village will commence at 10:00 am and

ON SATURDAY 24th September, the St Vincent & the Grenadines Medical Association will host a fundraiser with a difference at Flow Wine Bar. Dubbed ‘A Latin Night for a Cause’, and themed ‘Putting Our Strengths Together’, the event is aimed at raising funds to assist the Medical Association in its support for treatment of Breast and Prostate Cancer patients, and its awareness programme as far as these two very common cancers are concerned. The event slots into the designated months for Prostate and Breast Cancer Awareness, September and October respectively. According to co-host of the event Kimya Glasgow, who is also the co-ordinator of Latin Nights at Flow, “Almost everyone knows someone or knows of someone who has been affected in some way by cancer. Even within my own family, we have been affected by both Breast and Prostate Cancer, so I felt a responsibility to work with the Medical Association to help in the fight against and awareness of these Cancers, and their prevention and treatment. It is a very personal decision.” She went on to say, “I believe that each one of us has the ability to help, and even small contributions can make a difference when added with the goodwill of others. It adds up and can do great things. We have a duty to help each other, which is why I launched Latin Night for a Cause.” Latin Night is a weekly event held at Flow Wine Bar, and has previously supported Earthquake Relief for Ecuador.

Fashion Night Out comes to SVG

South East has first overseas performance THE EIGHT-YEAR-OLD Winfresh South East Steel Orchestra has had its first taste of international exposure. The significant juncture in its short but ongoing existence came when a contingent of the orchestra performed at the Vineyard Vincyfest, at Featherstone Center for the Arts, Martha’s Vineyard, USA. Vineyard Vincyfest, held August 27, featured cultural and literary aspects of St Vincent and the Grenadines on the popular summer spot located south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and followed on a December 2015 memorandum of Agreement signed between the government of SVG and Dukes County, Martha’s Vineyard. South East’s invitation to perform at Vinceyard Vincyfest was extended by

Winfresh South East Steel Orchestra into their recital at the Vineyard Vincyfest on Martha’s Vineyard. the SVG Consulate in New York, co-ordinator of the activity. A 19-person contingent including 16 players, Musical Director Marla Nanton, Band Manager Cecil Ryan and parent Jennifer Richardson - made the trip. According to a release from the orchestra, the group’s reception at Martha’s Vineyard was “phenomenal, with

numerous requests by members of the audience for the band to play.” The release said the band played for extensive periods of time, and represented itself and St. Vincent and the Grenadines well. Bitten by the bug of travel and exposure, the Orchestra said it was anticipating future opportunities to gain even more international exposure.

FASHION NIGHT OUT SVG, St Vincent’s first Late Night fashion shopping experience, will be held on Thursday 29th September 2016, 7:00pm to 10:00pm, at the Cruise Ship Terminal Building. The event Some of the featured local designers on Fashion will be hosted Night Out include Kimya Glasgow (top left), Odini by the Kimya Sutherland (centre), Ikesha Delpleche (top right), Glasgow Jeremy Payne (bottom right), Aileen Bailey Boutique. (bottom left). Fashion Night Out is a which seeks to highlight the global initiative that began in 2009 by Vogue Magazine and the importance of Vincentians supporting their own local Council of Fashion Designers of artisans towards stimulating America in New York. increased economic acitivty at It was initiated as a measure the small business level. aimed at enticing and Fashion Night Out SVG will encouraging consumers to include retail offers, giveaways, support the fashion industry during a tough economic climate. product sampling, fashion-related activities, along with a relaxed The event expanded to 16 networking environment with countries by 2010. industry stakeholders including The locally hosted event is Kimya Glasgow Boutique’s ‘Buy. 12 local creatives, as well as a select group of regional Think. Shop Local’ Campaign, designers.

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18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

NTRC/I Squared Competition commended

THE DECISION by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) to start the Ideas and Innovations (I Squared) Competition, has come in for high praises from two previous participants. Speaking at the launch of the 2016 competition at the Community College last week Friday, September 16, Cenus Hinds, the creator/manager of Konservi App and an assistant Technician at the University of West

Indies Open Campus here, said that he was happy the Competition was aimed at encouraging private sector initiatives. Hinds, who was a member of a team in the first competition in 2013, encouraged young people to “Press on” in pursuit of bringing their ideas to life, and to dismiss persons who tended to be shortsighted. The competition, according to Hinds, serves as a springboard for students. Nyron Collis, a third

form student of the Petit Bordel Secondary School, also commended the competition. He presented a Zip Line to La Soufriere as part of a team project last year and was among the winners. Collis reflected on his previous attempt in the NTRC competition and how that exposure spurred him on to success. The young man reminded students present at the launch, that they have the ability to succeed, but that they

must take charge of their situation. “Don’t stand in the way of your dream,” Collis urged. NTRC’s Director Apollo Knights also addressed the gathering. He encouraged the students present to make the most of the competition, and expressed a desire to see more indigenous technology taking root. “We want to develop more apps for Vincentians by Vincentians,” Knights said, as he pointed to how participation in the Competition could help to open the door to lucrative opportunities in the future. Carlton Browne, Business Solutions Manager Digicel SVG, in his address, endorsed Knights’ sentiments, highlighting that “Apps are big business in today’s world,” and encouraged the students to push the boundaries. The Ideas and Innovations (I Squared) Competition is open to students from secondary schools, technical institutes and the various divisions of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.

Former participant Nyron Collis spoke of the Competition spurring on to further success. According to the NTRC, the prize for the first place winner would be EC$3500 for the mobile app, and $2000 for innovative ideas. Second place will receive EC$2500 for the mobile app and $1500 for innovative ideas, and third place will receive $1500 for the mobile app and $1000 for innovative ideas. Other prizes include $1000 for the school with the most entries, and mentors from the winning team will receive prizes ranging from $500-$700. Registration for the competition closes on

Cenus Hinds, featured speaker, recognised the I Squared Competition as a meaningful springboard for aspiring innovators.

Apollo Knights, NTRC Director, wants to see a culture of ‘indigenous technology’ taking root. Friday, November 4 this year, with the grand finale taking place on Thursday, January 19th, 2017.

Watch out for poisoned crayfish THE FORESTRY DEPARTMENT in the Ministry of Agriculture has a warning for all those who are regular consumers of the fresh water aquatic life such as CRAYFISH. The warning: You are advised to desist from purchasing and consuming all such products originating from the rivers and streams, unless the origin and method of harvesting can be ascertained and proven. Please be reminded Poisoned (dead) crayfish floating in the waters of the Rabacca (Dry River), Tuesday 13th that the consumption of September, 2016. these animals caught under these conditions is a crayfish from several persons offering health hazard that can lead to death. these items for sale. The warning follows on information In addition, the Department is (later verified) reaching the Forestry appealing to all persons involved in Department that on Tuesday harvesting of these animals, to abide by 13th September, there was an incident the legal methods of harvesting, since to of poisoning of the Rabacca (Dry do otherwise contravenes section 29D of River). Following these reports, the Wildlife Protection Act of 1991. quantities of crayfish were observed to This Act stipulates, inter alia, that be available for sale in the immediate any person who permits the deposit of communities, which led to the any poisonous substance in the waters intervention of the police, who are now being assisted in their investigations by frequented by fish, shrimps or crabs in any place, is guilty of an open offence seven persons. liable to a fine of $2000 and In fact, the police in their investigation, confiscated about 10lbs of imprisonment for six (6) months.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 19.

News

Ensuring financial stability in the region:Key role for Credit Unions

Montserrat, and the host country. Gonsalves, in his address, noted that it was important that the Credit Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (2nd from left) challenged Union Movement is Representation at the summit reflected full membership of the the Credit Unions to play their part in ensuring run well, and that a stable financial sector in the region. they work in unison OECS Credit Union Movement. with the regulators upon a time, it didn’t Currency Union is stable, the operations of the to ensure that they matter, but now the however, challenges Credit Union, so as to contribute to stability in Credit Union matters in persist in both the make it more appealing the financial sector. a systemic sense,” said banking and the nonto the younger “Because if you don’t, the Prime Minister banking sector, including generation. it will affect the money He told the gathering the Credit Union, and Noting that while it that we have inside of that the verdict of the that the stability is being was good to have many the Credit Union; it will Central Bank is that the threatened by the loss of credit unions, it was also affect the financial financial system in the corresponding banking important to deliver system as a whole. Once Eastern Caribbean relationships. great service even if it The Prime Minister, meant merging in cases who is also Minister of where it was necessary, Finance, said that there as referenced Unity are Credit Unions in the Labour Party Credit OECS to whom the Union merging with the commercials banks have General Employees Cosaid, “We don’t want operative Credit Union (GECCU), as an PRESIDENT OF THE Monserrat, for unique reasons, is interest. By the time that the end your accounts, because they want to be certain example. CARIBBEAN Confederation of over 50%,” said Moses. of the first week comes around, that nobody is using the According to the Prime Credit Unions (CCCU) - Aaron He, however noted that, despite they have to go back, and it’s a credit union for money Minister, he would like Moses, has declared that Credit the fact that the Credit Union vicious cycle,” Moses declared. laundering or the finance to see the Bank of St. Unions have contributed movement has done well, there The operations by those Lucia and the Bank of significantly to the economy of the are tremendous challenges that institutions are having a negative of terrorism.” But Gonsalves also St. Vincent and the Caribbean, so much so that they confront them. impact on the lives of the have become the engine of “If we are to continue to be the individuals, their communities showered praises on the Grenadines become one, sustainable development. engine of sustainable development and families, Moses posited, and Credit Union Movement, “So don’t think I am Moses, speaking at the opening within our societies, we must contrasted this against the Credit stating that it has made advocating this in of the 14th Annual OECS Credit work harder, we must do a lot of Unions, whose goal is the building tremendous strides and relation to Credit Nnion, Union Summit at the Buccament things differently, we must work and enhancing the lives of is now in demand. But and am not advocating in Bay Resort Conference Hall on smarter”, said the CCCU individuals, their families and he also mentioned a need relation to the banks,” Thursday 14th , told the President. communities. for a change in some of said Gonsalves. gathering comprising Credit Moses spoke Unions officials, government of the financial officials and members of the illiteracy media, that more than 50 percent epidemic that of the populations of the OECS characterizes are members of a credit union, the world, and in terms of assets and the including the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Caribbean. He the various OECS countries, there said the is a very interesting story. (Caribbean) “St. Vincent, Grenada and St. population Lucia assets to GDP ranges knows very between 19 and 21 percent. little about When we get to Dominica that is financial issues, 39 percent and certainly discipline and management. He made reference to the introduction of institutions that offer Pay Day loans, where people, especially those of the lower echelons of our society, are paying between 30 and 36 percent to borrow money. “So you have workers who Aaron Moses, President of the are barrowing $ Caribbean Confederation of 1,000 and they Credit Unions, delivering his will have to address to the 14th Summit of start paying the Confederation. over $300 in FEATURED SPEAKER at the opening of the 14th Annual OECS Credit Union Summit Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has appealed to the credit union movement to make changes, in order to realize financial stability in the region. The 14th Annual OECS Credit Union Summit was held at the Buccament Bay Resort from the 14th to 18th September, 2016, under the theme ‘Strengthening OECS Credit Union Cooperation, Integration

and Innovation’. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cooperative League Ltd. played host to the Summit. Among those in attendance were representatives of Antigua and Barbuda Co-operative, Dominicia Co-operative Societies League, Grenada Cooperative Societies League, St. Kitts and Nevis National Cooperative League, St. Lucia Co-operative League, St. Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union,

Credit Unions: The engine of sustainable development

V Take your time!!! 20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

he has to take his time and let her she achieves emotional down gently. He said he told her he is balance. You need to keep your eyes open because there is a done to change from the habits that IT IS SEVEN YEARS since I divorced moving on, but she did not take the caused the end to the marriage in the great chance that he has not cut ties my husband of six years. He had been news too well. He insists he needs to first place. Take all the time that is be by her side on a regular basis to with this woman, which is why he caught in several acts of infidelity. necessary to make your decision, while needs time to attain functional levels Since my divorce I have been doing calm her down, until she gets it that keeping in mind that some people do their relationship is no more. to swing both relationships. very well. I am a professional and live capitalize on a second chance while Right now, he is sharing his time You need to demand his undivided with my two adult daughters, who are others make havoc of it. between this woman and me, and fails attention, and be sure that he has also working and doing very to see I have a problem with that. Do totally and fully made his mind up to well. However, from time to time George you think I should wait on him to fix be with you and you only. Talk with since our separation, my ex-husband his situation? him and let him explain what he has has spoken to me about getting back together. I have brushed him off on Unsure all occasions. I finally met this wonderful man who won my heart, and we have been Dear Unsure, seeing each other for one year now, If your ex-husband and with each passing day, the alone. husband into the Dear George, wants you back badly relationship between us is getting My husband demanded a conversation. enough, he would drop more and more serious. divorce from me because he What is discussed between I WAS FORCED to confess to Somehow, my ex-husband managed everything that would said he was not going to you and your pastor, is indeed my Pastor that I had been stand between him and to persuade me to sit down with him father another man’s child. I confidential and should be sleeping with one of the over a cup of coffee. He explained how you, and focus entirely kept that way. He has every deacons at church, and that I eventually took a pregnancy on you. test, and it turned out that I right to act in accordance to he had changed and how much he might be pregnant. This woman of whom the rules and policies of the wanted me back. To be fair, I did The thing is, I am married was not pregnant. My church as they apply to the notice that he was not quite the same he speaks, is adult and my husband is not in the husband believes I took an enough to understand abortion. behaviour of members. person who was married to me, and I country. I had all the signs of I have been served divorce It is unfortunate that your that that relationship is being pregnant, and wanted began leaning towards giving him a papers, and I am not going marriage is at risk, but you over, if it is in fact over, my Pastor to help me figure second chance. There is one problem back to the church. I am should have known this risk and she needs to move this out. My husband got however. seeking legal advice on the existed when you decided to He admitted he has been seeing this on. It is not his duty to back, and before I could matter because I feel that fool around. be her counsellor and explain to him my girl while we were apart, and informed All may not be lost; get predicament, my Pastor called there was a breach of remain with her until me that before we get back together, confidentiality between the your Pastor to reach out to him in and told him about pastor and me. This is such a your husband in an effort to mess! salvage your marriage. Of what we had course, it is your right to seek discussed. I Depressed legal redress if all else never wanted fails. At the end of the day, him to do that, one must be ready to face the and thought he Dear Depressed, consequence of their understood Your pastor may have actions. This is your turn to that our jumped the gun somewhat. do just that. conversation He should have sought your was between permission to bring your George us and us

Dear George,

Breach of confidentiality?

The more the merrier with different women, and rather than running around, I want these women to be in the same house where I WANT TO GET married, but I everybody knows everybody. That cannot live with one woman for the way, we all can be happy. rest of my life. I need to have an I have a serious girlfriend now, but arrangement where I have more than one woman living with me in the same she is not going for that, so I know I house. I am a man who loves to sleep would not be marrying her. She does not know that yet. What advice would you give me?

Dear George,

Need more Dear Need more, If this is your philosophy, then you are not ready to be married, at least not in this part of the world. You might want to explore moving to a country where your dream and fantasy could be realized. In the meantime, do not keep your girlfriend hanging on to false hopes. Release her now so she could find what she is looking for. Marriage calls for commitment, among other things, and if you are not ready to fall in line, then leave it alone until you are mature enough to revisit the subject.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You can stabilize your personal relationship if you're willing to communicate honestly. Controversial subjects should be avoided at all costs. Pleasure trips will be most enjoyable and should lead to new and lasting friendships. Opportunities to get together with people in powerful positions could help you get ahead.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You may find that your documents are not in order. Consider the source before you believe what you hear. Don't let your personal problems interfere with your professional responsibilities. Travel opportunities look positive, but be cautious while driving.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Get motivated and follow up on some self-improvement resolutions. You need to refrain from being the generous one in the group. Residential moves will be hectic and may be unsatisfactory. Don't let your jealousy be the reason for a decaying relationship.

SCORPIo (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Anger might lead to carelessness and minor Injuries. Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies. Include the whole family or those you love. You can accomplish a lot if you direct your thoughts toward starting your own small business on the side.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Travel may be confusing. Comfort is a necessity. Check your motives. Try to enlist the support of your co-workers first. You will be drawn to individuals who can provide you with both intellectual conversation and physical passion.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can make new friends and experience new things if you do a bit of traveling. Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. This will not be the day to start new business ventures or make drastic changes in your career. Calm down and take a step back.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) For now just do the best you can. Accommodate others but not before you do your own thing. Do the proper safety checks before you go out. Try to visit friends or relatives you don't get to see often. You need time to rejuvenate.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Stomach problems could prevail if you haven't been watching your diet. Your home environment may be volatile if precautions aren't taken. Be careful to avoid wrong doings. You must be sure not to be frivolous, because as the saying goes, easy come, easy go.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don't overspend on luxury items. Be willing to listen, but don't be fooled. Put your energy into learning new skills or picking up valuable information. However, you should be concerned about what they want in return. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. Attend seminars that will bring you in contact with the right people. Changes in your residence may be financially favorable. Ignore colleagues who appear to be going in circles.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Difficulties will result if you have to deal with controversial groups this week. You will have splendid suggestions for fund raising events. You will be able to pick up on future trends if you keep your eyes peeled for unique ideas. Passion is about the best way for you to relieve tension. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Focus on forming business partnerships. Make arrangements to spend quality time together. Don't forget to let your mate know how much you care. You may be likely to have difficulties with females.

ACROSS

48. Sot’s conviction (abbr.) 1. Observe 50.Otherworldly secretly 53. Unhealthy 4. Falling on _ 54. Bosox ears great’s 8. Emcee Barker nickname 11. “_ Haw” 55. Praises 12. Florida City highly 13. One, in French 56. Dam14. Museum’s building org. display 57. Before, in 15. Purple flower poems 16. Journey part 58. Pet pest 17. “Zorba” actor 59. Mulch Anthony 19. _ music DOWN 21. Dreadful monster 1. Center O’Neal 24. Not suited 2. Brazil’s 27. Ventilate neighbour (2 wds.) 3. Abominable 29. Upper body Snowman 30. Moreover 4. “_ Kapital” 31. Conjunction, 5. Ambulance for short worker (abbr.) 33. Bullfight cheer 6. Orangutans 34. Water vapor 7. Hippie’s 37. Anger expression 40. Sordid (2 wds.) 41. Attack 8. Certain unexpectedly croaker 42. Speak 9. Billfold bill imperfectly 10. Plead 44. Coffee option 12. “Last _ in

Paris” 18. Also not 20. Juan’s “one” 22. Monotonous routine 23. Anesthetic of the past 25. _ of Man 26. Stubbed spot 27. Poker fee 28. Put on a pedestal 30. Donkey 32. Three _ match (2 wds.) 35. “_ Blue?” (2 wds.)

36. Reflexive pronoun 38. Motors 39. Summer drink 43. Ring 45. Reference 46. Edison’s

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 21.

middle name 47. Not carbonated 48. Color cloth 49. Boer _ 51. Feel remorse 52. Actress Lupino

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22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ECGC Foundation Inc. makes its first donation THE EAST CARIBBEAN GROUP OF COMPANIES established the ECGC Foundation Inc. on May 19, 2015, and launched it formally on February 02, 2016, with the aim of creating opportunities for education and facilitating health care for less fortunate persons within our Vincentian Society. The Foundation gives meaning to ECGC’s commitment to developing an ongoing and comprehensive Chairman approach to meeting of the people’s needs, and ECGC providing them with Foundation positive choices that can Inc., Mr. bring about meaningful life changing experiences. Osmond Davy (left), On 14 September, 2016, Mr. Osmond Davy, handing over the Foundation‘s Chairman and Chief donations Executive Officer of the to Clifford East Caribbean Group of Soleyn Companies, made the (father of very first monetary Raffique donation in keeping with Soleyn). the aim of the Foundation, when he presented cheques to three individuals needing medical assistance. The recipients were Mr. Raffique Soleyn, Mr. Kingsley Barbour and Ms. Tiffany Hepburn. Davy noted that “although the donations would not cover all the costs, it would certainly go a long way in easing the financial burdens brought on by the illnesses.” The ECGC Foundation is currently managed by a Board of Directors consisting of persons with varying backgrounds and expertise, in areas such as education, law, medicine, social work and accounting.

Kingsley Barbour (right) received donation from Mr. Osmond Davy.

Colinsia Stephen accepts donation on behalf of her daughter Tiffany Hepburn.

Relief for traffickers coming? A MEETING IN JULY this year between Mr Timothy Antoine, Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), and Leader of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace and , Opposition Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown St Clair ‘Major’ Leacock, has seen some recent development. In that meeting, the plight of the Vincentian traffickers as it related to currency problems experienced in Trinidad and Tobago, was discussed. Calling in to the ‘New Times’ radio programme on Monday 12 September, Leacock said that he had since heard

from Antoine, and he (Antoine) had requested some information in relation to the issue. That request, according to Leacock, appeared to indicate that in Leacock’s assessment, some relief would be coming for the local traffickers. “So some help is on the way for traffickers for the currency problems that they experience in Trinidad and Tobago,” the opposition Parliamentarian said. At the July meeting, the ECCB Governor promised to discuss the matter (currency) further with his Trinidad and Tobago colleague, Governor, Dr Alvin

Timothy Antoine, Governor of the ECCB, seems ready to make representation on behalf of inter-island traffickers, to Central Bank authorities in T&T. Hilaire of the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 23.

North East Football League on target

Below: South Rivers – winners of the 2016 North East Football League Under-13 division.

goal scorer with 11 goals. Under- 13.” Two other awards Spring noted that his organisation was able to were copped by Sparta FC through Asroy get participation from Cruickshank - Best Goal areas which are Keeper and Saviola traditionally cricket Blake- Best Midfielder. bastions, such as South Topping the awardees Rivers and Park Hill. South Rivers finished in the Under-17 segment was SV United Dwayne tops in the Under-13 segment, while Park Hill Cupid who was adjudged U – 17 Most Goals: Zidane reached the semi- finals. the Most Valuable Sam of Greiggs (left), top Player. Terris Joseph of Adding to his goal scorer in the U-17, Chapmans was evaluation, Spring collecting his award from reasoned, “Also we were announced as the Best Midfielder, with SV able to achieve the NEFL General Secretary Otashie Spring, And, despite the United’s JayZ Ryanplaying time set for Rolando Lewis. President of the North outcome of the youth Best Defender and East Football League, is games, with the U -17 tournament, Spring Nickron Billy of playing full ninety goals award was Greiggs’ confessed, “There is encouraged by the minutes and the Under- Chapmans-Best Goal Zidane Sam, who had 10 much work that needs to success of this year’s keeper. 13s for sixty goals. Youth Football League. be done if we have to Copping the most minutes...Our Technical Reports show that FOLLOWING THE ninety—five percent conclusion of the North of the games played East Football League were at the Youth Tournament, stipulated duration President of the League THE HIGH times set by the Otashie Spring believes PERFORMANCE Club of Technical that his organisation has Layou, last Sunday Committee.” achieved some of its afternoon, staged a 5K A total of eight desired outcomes. road race from Pembroke teams contested the Looking back at the to Layou, as part of Team Under-17 division Tournament staged at Athletics SVG’s calendar. which was won by the Colonarie Playing With representation Field and making use of SV United, and six mainly from IT- DAT the August vacation and battled in the Academy and the host the first two weeks of the Under-13. The individual organisation, High new school year, Spring awards in the Performance, it was Akini assessed, “We Slater of IT- DAT had success in achieving Under-13 saw Kieann Mc Millan of Academy who was the several of the technical South Rivers voted first to cross the finish goals that were aimed as the Most line in front of the Double at... We were able to Valuable Player, Zita Vincent – Under 16 encourage early “S” Supermarket. while Amron female winner. childhood participation Slater’s time of 15 Overall winner- Akani Thomas of Sparta within a competitive minutes 04.00 seconds Slater. 35.50 seconds. FC was the leading atmosphere from the earned him the Under-20 The female winner of male title and the the Under-16 bracket was overall top prize. another High Performance Second overall athlete, Zita Vincent. She and first in the stopped the clock on 19 male Under-18 TASVG IS CURRENTLY conducting a minutes 10.15 seconds, was IT- DAT two-week coaching programme from 17 ahead of Chaunte Academy’s Slyford Williams — 20 minutes - 30 September, 2016 in Throws (shot Lampkin, whose putt, discuss, javelin). 31.75 seconds, and Leanna time was 15 The programme is being facilitated Lovelace — 22 minutes minutes 57.38 under the leadership of Mr. Paul Philip 25.25 seconds, as High seconds, and third Performance swept the top of Grenada - the leading Throws coach was Lauren Quow three places in that age in Grenada and who is credited with of High the preparation of Grenada’s athletes category. Performance in 16 for the Junior Carifta Games. High Performance’s minutes 47.72 This is Mr Philip’s second visit to athletes also took the two seconds. Quow was places contested in the SVG in this regard. also second place But even as this programme female Under-18, as Carol in the male Under- Browne, 25 minutes 52.28 ensures, at least one leading Track and Throws session at the Richmond Hill Plaing Field. 18. Field coach here has raised questions seconds, and Blessie There were about why it is not being conducted at Richardson, 29 minutes as opposed to Arnos Vale, and it will other divisional the Arnos Vale Sports Complex, where 42.45 seconds, were first not be practical nor safe to there are proper circles and where most have throwing events there at the times winners. Cadique and second respectively. Stephens of High athletes train. Similarly, two scheduled. Performance, was competitors were The site for sessions, Richmond Hill As far as THE VINCENTIAN is able the lone athlete Playing Field (Grammar School Playing to ascertain, the Throws coaching registered in the 20 and contesting the Field according to the coach, is always over males. It saw OJ programme continued, up to press time male Under-16. crowded and therefore, is not practical Jackson of IT- DAT Wednesday, at the Richmond Hill His winning time nor safe to have throwing events staged Playing Field. Academy finishing in 18 was 23 minutes there. minutes 10.28 seconds,

raise the standard of football in the country side”. Spring stated that the elite competition is set to commence shortly.

HP holds 5K road race

TASVG hosts Throws coaching programme

Cadique Stephens – Under 16 male winner. ahead of Joonyah Garrick of ITFT in 21 minutes 06.28 seconds. And, Soreyna Miller of IT-DAT Academy was the lone female in the 20 and over. Miller’s time over the distance was 21 minutes 38.72 seconds. The top finishers in each of the categories were awarded with beverages, compliments various donors. Next on Team Athletics SVG’s programme is the four-leg Round D Town (Kingstown) Road Relay, scheduled for this Sunday. The Round D Town Relay is making a return after it was shelved last year because of low registration, occasioned by school examinations and the national elections campaigning. In 2015, the Round D Town Road Relay was slated for 29th November, instead of September, as was the case in previous hostings.

V Cupid steers Police home 24. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

answer, it seems, for lawmen Sigmon Allen, 3 for 9, and Elmore Alexander 2 for 12. In another weekend match, Bequia Cricket Association earned a 5wicket victory over J G & Sons Glamorgan when, in a rain affected match, they raced to 108 for 5 in 10.5 overs in reply to Glamorgan’s 103 for five in 12 overs. Calvin Hazell topscored for Bequia with 41 not out, and Augustus did likewise for Glamorgan with 34. Chesley Ottley took 2 for 10 and Godfrey Brewster 2 for Gosnel Cupid hit a match 25, bowling for Glamorgan. winning 63 runs for Police. Stanley Browne’s Stubbs defeated Marriaqua by 9 RSVG POLICE MASTERS began wickets. the defence of Masters Cricket In the other weekend title with a bang, when they match, reduced to 11 overs a defeated Computec side because of rain, Belfongo by 16 runs in one of Marriaqua made 56 for 6 off the opening matches in the 11 overs against Stanley 2016 Edition of the SVG Masters Browne’s Stubbs, who cruised Cricket Competition, last to victory, closing on 59 for 1 weekend. in 6.2 overs. Led by an entertaining 63 Leon Samuel led Stubbs’ by Gosnel Cupid and 23 from successful run chase with an Parmel Browne, Police closed aggressive 24 not out. their allotted 20 overs on 116 Fixtures for this weekend: for 7. Elvis ‘Baga’ Browne Saturday - Sion Hill face took 2 for 9, to be Belfongo’s Mustique at Sion Hill, and JG best bowler. &Sons Glomorgan play Kirk Computec Belfongo looked DaSilva’s La Croix at Park likely to overhaul the Police Hill, from 2pm; Sunday - from total, but faltered and reached 10am Rudy’s Electrical only 100 for the loss of 8 Barrouallie face Pastures at wickets when their 20 overs Sion Hill; Bequia Cricket came to an end. Curtis King Association oppose North East led with 27. They had no

Rudy’s Electrical go down twice RUDY’S ELECTRICAL suffered two losses in the VINLEC North Leeward T/20 Cricket Competition last Sunday. Robertson Surveying Future Legends, 205 for 7 off 20 overs, secured a 77- run win over Rudy’s Electrical. Future Legends’ total was built around Winston Samuel, 42, and Benniton Stapleton, 35. Stapleton picked up 4 for 29 to rout Rudy’s for 128, with Anfernee Joseph, 38, putting up the most resistance. Edwards 2 for 30 and Joelano Neil 2 for 43 had the best figures for Rudy’s. House of Graphic Summerset raced to 152 for 2 off 12.2 overs, to wrap up an eight-wicket win against Rudy’s Electrical, in the day’s first encounter. Romano Pierre, 59, and Jadial Chance, 52, both unbeaten, steered Summerset to their target. Curtis Edwards

2 for 29 was the chief wickettaker for Rudy’s who had earlier posted 149 for 9 off 15 overs, Joelano Neil, 37, leading the batting. Rudy’s innings was undermined by national offspinner Dyke Cato, 4 for 31. Saturday’s matches were rained out, with one point awarded to each team. The Police/Circumstance was curtailed after eight overs. The other fixture Police against Peto Stars never saw a ball bowled owing to heavy rain. Peto Stars face Keshore Shallow Coulls Hill Rangers in tomorrow’s first encounter, followed by a Big League versus North Stars clash. Sunday sees Ajuba and Upsetters at 10 am, then Sharpes United play Carlos James Troumaca Starlight. (WKA)

at Bequia; St Vincent Cooperative Bank Ptani play Stanley’s Browne at Park Hill; from 2pm on Sunday, Sion Hill

face North Leeward at Sion Hill, RSVG Police take on Mustique at Arnos Vale One, and Park Hill clash with

Marriaqua at Park Hill. I.B.A.ALLEN

Sweepers retain Mustique cricket title THE FINALS OF THE 2016 Mustique 20/20 Cricket Competition turned out to be somewhat of an anti-climax for the many enthusiasts who turned up at the Mustique Playing Field last Sunday, September 17. The finals pitted defending champions Alumbrera Sweepers against five-time champions Salanga Tama Hawks and fans could not have been faulted if they expected something of a run-feast, at the least. It was not to be, even though, admittedly, those who stayed to the end found reason to cheer on the bowlers. Champions Alumbrera Sweepers with manager and coach. In a disappointing, lowscoring final, Alumbrera Sweepers made the task of defending their title look difficult, after Salanga Tama Hawks had set them a modest target of 106 for victory. Salanga Tama Hawks’ total of 105 all out in 20 overs was due primarily to Coswell Dorsette 19 and Stephen Williams 16. No other batsman got into double figures. Bowling for Alumbrera Sweepers, Maxford Clarke took 3 wickets for 17 runs in his allotted 4 overs, Calroy Ferdinand 3 for 32 in his 4, and Romano Warren 2 for 16 in 4 overs. Alumbrera Sweepers made hard going of the chase but eventually got to 106, after losing 9 wickets, in their Romano Warren of Alumbrera Sweepers (2nd from 20 overs. Romano Warren 39 ensured left) mobbed by jubilant supporters. victory for the defending champions figures of 4 overs, ten runs, four wickets; but with a knock of 39 which included 16 off the he had little consistent support from his fellow last three balls of the innings. Cedrick Grant bowlers. contributed 16 Congratulations to Alumbrera Sweepers for Bowling for Salanga Tama Hawks, Oniel their successful defence of their title. Thomas threatened to do Alumbrera in with (Submitted by Paul James)

Veterans dominate latest TT ranking

Robert Ballantyne tops the Table Tennis rankings.

ROBERT BALLANTYNE, former national champion and one of the seniors — age and tenure in the sport here is ranked number one, having amassed a total of 134 points over the period under review. He is followed in second by another former national champion and veteran player Sean Stanley, who shares the second spot — 116 points — with the up and coming, and beaten finalist in this year’s national championship, Damion Dublin.

Reigning national champion Carlton Daniel, who would have been inactive for some time, is ranked 6th, with Romano Spencer and Joseph Carrington, another veteran player, in 4th and 5th positions respectively. Three other veterans are counted in the top ten - Jeff Trotman in 8th position, Junior Byron-Cox in 9th and Giles Garraway 10th. The remaining position, 7th, is left for Javier De Shong. I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 25.

Sports

Nical Stephens hoping for Vincy Heat return out here. Lots of hard work and focus too… . TWENTY-FOUR-YEAR-OLD The level of intensity is Nical Stephens is dreaming real high, but it becomes of the day when he will be easy as long as you apply recalled to service with yourself and be consistent Vincy Heat – this country’s …. But all in all, it really senior national football feels good to be doing team. something I am passionate A graduate of the about.” Under 17, 20 and 23 But Stephens’ heart is national teams, the with the national team, speedy mid-fielder and and he prays for the day occasional wing back has he would be recalled to the 17 senior national caps to team. his name. His last senior He disclosed that he national duty was in 2015 recently, at his own travel in the Windward Islands cost, etc., returned home Tournament. to train with the national Stephens recently team, but did not make signed a contract with the final cut. “I was on Club Sando, a team in the camp with the team. Trinidad and Tobago Honestly, I wasn’t playing Professional League competitively for 2-3 (TTPL). This followed months before and I previous TTPL contracts wasn’t in the form that with Calidonia AIA (2012 I’m usually in. But my to 2014) and Cunupua FC game is back up. I’m (6 months), and a stint playing once again in the with English League 1 top league in the Club - Netherton United. Caribbean, and hopefully Speaking recently from they (SVG selectors) his base in Trinidad, would call me back soon,” Stephens said, “It’s good said Stephens. experience to be playing Nical Stephens is a by KENVILLE HORNE

Williams comes around WEST INDIES begin their series against Pakistan today, September, Friday 23, with a T/20 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.. A second T20 is scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday 24, and a third on Tuesday 27. The teams switch to the 50 Over mode with the first match on Friday 30 in Sharjah, a second Sunday, October 2, and the third Wednesday, October 5. A three-day game against a Pakistan Board Patron’s XI provides an opportunity for the teams to get used to the longer version, in preparation for the first test in Sharjah, October 13 to 17. The second is slated for Abu Dhabi, 21 to 25, and third in Sharjah, October 30 to November 3. This is an ideal occasion for the West Indies to assert themselves. Pakistan have just completed an enterprising tour of England, and acquitted themselves admirably. Calls for reform of the West Indies Cricket Board have risen to a crescendo, and many are obsessed with the call for the disbandment of the body. It is intriguing that advocates of the changes are indeed former officers. Some have made comments purporting to indicate that Board members have not been forthright with their approach to running the business. CARICOM and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States appear symbolic tools to be used as conveniences of political expediency. The WICB comes over as the ones to be blamed, according to calypsonian ‘Speechie’ in one of his 2016 compositions. If your administrators could produce champions at Under 19, Women’s and Senior Men’s categories in the same span, then things could not be so alarmingly wrong. There have been signs of innovation and adventure with the exposure given to young talent. Whether some players get called up prematurely or are encouraged on insular grounds, I have no choice but to rely on the wisdom of the selectors. I do not follow the progress of every match. Vincentians, and especially people from the North Leeward village of Spring will look on with interest on how Kesrick Williams adapts to his elevation to the senior party. His inclusion comes as a replacement in the T/20 outfit for Andre Russell. Williams’ journey is a remarkable tale, the final chapter of which is still a long time from completion. His rise is phenomenal, having first been named in an A squad for Sri Lanka. Williams adds to a list of Vincentian fast bowlers to have broken through, to merit West Indies colours. He has never been a feature on the Vincentian national landscape. Hence his upgrade must be viewed as extraordinary. His CPL stint, in which Dale Steyn was his close ally, must have boosted his morale. A lot rubbed off on Williams. He will be anxious to prove his mettle in the largest arena. He will be an unknown quantity, and that will be in his favour. He is determined to battle with the greats, for he is quite a chirpy youngster, as persons from North Leeward are wont. Williams has never shown a high batting record. But he is seen as a sufficiently capable batsmen and, having established his credentials with the ball, it is his duty to develop his allround prowess so as to entrench himself on the squad. Williams can be the selectors’ revelation by delivering the goods. Once players assume their responsibility and fulfil their duties as professionals, West Indies cricket will re-emerge.

Nical Stephens, still a young man, is working hard towards a call up, once again, for service with the national football team.

product of the school football here. He was a dominant player for the Barrouallie Secondary School (BSS) — now the Central Leeward Secondary School — winning at both the junior and senior levels of InterSecondary Schools football. He transferred to the JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School and helped that school win the senior division of the InterSecondary Schools Tournament. He was also a member of the BESCO Pasture United. Stephens has learned the value of hard work; that nothing comes easy. He encourages his peers and the younger ones to adopt an attitude of hard work and consistency, as they pursue their ambitions. In the meantime, he reiterated, “I just wanna get back on the national team.”

Rugby welcomes new coach THE SVG RUGBY UNION “We’ve always been (SVFGRU) has successfully good with negotiated the services of an administration and overseas coach for the remainder of organizing of the the year. sport, but some of the News from the SVGRU said that structures need their application for an Olympic improving”. Solidarity grant through the SVG She thanked the National Olympic Committee has Olympic Committee been approved, and they have for its help and already welcomed a World Rugby support thus, and recommended coach — Ruben Duque particularly in this — to the shores of SVG. latest effort, Coach Duque is expected to help considered a crucial develop the Rugby Sevens category step in developing of the sport and analyse Rugby Sevens, organizational and programmatic especially now that it structures of the sport here, and President of SVGRU Sophie Goddard (left) and is an Olympic Sport. make recommendations for growth General Secretary of the SVGNOC Keith and development. I.B.A.ALLEN Joseph (right) welcome coach Ruben Duque. He will be crisscrossing St. Vincent over the next 4 months, conducting various meetings, clinics, coaching sessions, and conducting courses for persons involved in coaching Rugby Sevens SPECIAL OLYMPICS St. Vincent and the and the schools ‘Get into Grenadines (SOSVG) will, on Saturday 24th Rugby’ programme. September, mark Eunice Kennedy Shriver President of SVGRU Day here. Sophie Goddard The Day, the seventh to be marked commented: “It is hoped worldwide, pays homage to Eunice Kennedy that after Ruben’s visits Shriver founder of the Special Olympics and analysis of the movement, and a leading international Eunice Kennedy Shriver (at Union as a whole, we’ll advocate for the rights of people with microphone) declares the first be in a better position to intellectual disabilities. ever Special Olympics open at develop our local coaches A release from SOASVG said that the Soldier Field, Chicago, USA. and persons involved in day will be marked here by A Sports Fun the Union, so we have Day and Barbecue at the Calliaqua Playing more structure and Field, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. development pathways Sporting activities are expected to involve people with and without intellectual for the future.” disabilities, in keeping with a spirit of inclusion that characterizes work with Goddard admitted, special needs people.

SOSVG to mark Founder’s Day

V Maintenance operations ongoing at VINLEC plants 26. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Overhaul work on a Unit at the Cane Hall Generation Plant. ST. VINCENT ELECTRICITY Services Limited (VINLEC) continues to take steps to improve the operations at the Company’s generating plants.

This as the VINLEC follows through on its routine programme to maintain the generators used to produce electricity. Over the past weeks, technical teams within the Generation Department have been involved in the overhaul of two of the Company’s generators. VINLEC’s Generation Department has a mandate to produce a continuous supply of electricity to satisfy the energy needs of consumers in the most cost effective and efficient manner. As part of the Department’s maintenance programme, a scheduled 6,000 hour overhaul of Lowmans Bay Unit # 3 commenced in August, and was recently completed. Overhauls are done to yield optimal performance, to increase an engine’s power output, economy, and durability at specific intervals. During the overhaul of a

generator, the engine is dismantled, components checked, repaired, rebuilt and in some instances changed so that the useful life of the engine is comparable to its useful life when it was new. The Unit at Lowmans Bay had routine service inspection and a fuel pump change, among other things. This engine was first put in service in September 2010 and has 34,500 running hours. Meanwhile, staff from VINLEC’s electrical and mechanical maintenance teams, with assistance from RIMCO, is currently carrying out overhaul work on the Unit # 9 at the Cane Hall Station. The Unit is undergoing its third major overhaul. During this exercise, all cylinder heads will be removed from the engine, stripped, cleaned and refurnished, and intake and exhaust valves, guides and seats will be replaced. A

number of other parts and auxiliaries will also be cleaned, replaced and/or retrofitted. Unit # 9 Cane Hall was installed in 1996. Following completion of the overhaul, a number of checks will be carried out on Some team members at the Lowmans Bay the engine to plant. ensure it was functional efficiency, reliability and before being reintegrated into ultimately improved customer the generating system. Work satisfaction. VINLEC on this project is scheduled to recognises that electricity is a be completed within the next vital part of functioning as a four weeks. society, and works to ensure The engine overhauls are that customers receive a an extremely important reliable and quality supply of component of VINLEC’s electricity that ultimately sets maintenance operations as the the pace for national process results in improved development. (Contributed)

Another successful WPP mission recorded

incisions. Children were treated for hernias and gall bladder and appendix ailments, among others. WPP Chief Development Officer Simon Carey thanked the team for their work done since their arrival on Sunday this week, and indicated that the operations would not Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves with WPP have been possible medical personnel and local WPP operants. without the WPP and its local, regional and THE WORLD PEDIATRIC PROJECT international partners. (WPP) this week concluded another He used the opportunity to successful mission to St Vincent and encourage more persons to join the the Grenadines, which saw children movement in helping sick children and receiving much needed and free their families, through WPP. surgeries. “These surgeries would have cost in The general surgery team, the tens of thousands of US dollars if comprised of Dr. David Lanning, the families had to pay for them General and Thoracic Pediatric themselves; but thanks to Surgeon; surgical technician Cindy organizations here and abroad, these Sheppard, as well as Dr Arlette kids would be living healthier, happier Charles of St Lucia and Dr Micelle lives. Vincent of Barbados and local doctors, “I want to take this opportunity to performed life-changing operations on invite more families to make use of the 10 Vincentian children. services that we offer, and also for Two others have been referred to a more companies to come on board in later mission. providing us with the resources that Lanning and his associates would make it possible to save these performed laparoscopic surgeries on children’s lives,” Carey said. the youngsters; instead of large The WPP, extending service to St incisions on the patients’ bodies, small Vincent and the Grenadines for the cuts were made, and with the help of a past 13 years, treats local children and surgical camera, the doctors were able those from across the region, for to operate on them. ailments such as scoliosis, cardio, The laparoscopic surgery reduces neurological, urological, plastic surgery recovery times, and also reduces the issues, among others. (Contributed) scars and soreness associated by large

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2016. 27.

Classifieds

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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NO MORE SVG $$$ FOR LIAT, UNTIL⁄

out the mandate of the view to reducing delays; consider a Shareholder Governments and return of the direct Puerto Rico-SVG Board of Directors. flight; improve Customer Service by For her part, according to the providing more information to the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves release, Ms. Reiffer-Jones travelling public. counting down to zero funds for LIAT. committed the airline to: review Last week, as the criticism of the schedule of flights in and out of LIAT’s service intensified, Opposition THERE WILL NO NEW INJECTION of funds from St. Vincent and the Grenadines into St. Vincent and the Grenadines within Leader Arnhim Eustace, in his weekly Radio programme, described LIAT as the regional airline LIAT, until that airline one week; notify the E.T. Joshua authorities by 9:00 p.m. about the a near to sixty-year-old which by now improves its service. should have dealt with most if not all That is the position as laid down by need for any extension beyond the operating hours; review the of its internal problems. Prime Minister of SVG Dr. Ralph turnaround time of aircrafts with a Eustace, though, admitted that this Gonsalves, when he met with a LIAT delegation headed by Acting CEO of LIAT Ms. Julie Reiffer-Jones, Wednesday 14th September, in Kingstown. That positon follows on a similar particularly designed one declared earlier this year by Prime for use in services to Minister of St. Lucia Allen women, since they Chastanet i.e. that there will be no bear the insignia of funding of the airline by St Lucian WAHA — which stands taxpayers. for Women and Health Alliance International Last week Wednesday’s meeting — an international nonwas occasioned after LIAT had come profit, non under heavy fire, with Prime Minister governmental Dr Ralph Gonsalves and the The ambulances sit idly at the St. organisation based in Permanent Secretary in the Ministry France. of National Security, Godfred Pompey, Vincent Shipyard at Ottley hall. WAHA was going public to express their concern THERE ARE THIRTEEN NEW launched by Her The interior of about the service meted out to SVG, by Rural Ambulances sitting for some Highness Sheikha the ambulance of the 59- year-old regional carrier. years now in storage at the St. Shamsa bint Hamdan showing a According to a news release Vincent Shipyard, originally known Al-Nahyan, wife of surprisingly following the meeting, Dr. Gonsalves, as the Ottley Hall Marina and Deputy Prime ‘decent’ amount who is the Chairman of LIAT’s Shipyard. Minister and Minister shareholder prime ministers, also THE VINCENTIAN understands of room. of State for Foreign raised specific areas of complaint with that they were a gift from the Affairs Sheikh the Acting CEO, not least among these Government of Dubai to the people of Hamdan bin Zayed of the United Arab St.Vincent and the Grenadines, to being the lack of information and the Emirates, with the over-arching goal of assist this country in the cancellation of flights. addressing maternal and implementation of the Millennium He issued a strong appeal for the neonatal health in disadvantaged Development Goals project. airline’s management to seek to carry communities throughout the world. The ambulances appear to be

Julie Reiffer-Jones, Acting CEO of LIAT, admitted to LIAT’s shortcomings, and promised to address them with urgency.

has not been the case; that the airline had shown no real improvement in its service; and that it was, therefore, in bad shape. He chided PM Gonsalves for having given the impression that “things are getting better,” when in fact “things are not getting any better.” It appears now that Dr. Gonsalves has recognised and admitted that ‘things are not getting any better,” and is prepared to do something about it.

Ambulances sitting at Ottley Hall

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

It follows, therefore, that this country would qualify for assistance from this NGO, and it appears, from what THE VINCENTIAN has learned, that the thirteen ambulances were donated in that organization’s name. Questions abound as to why the ambulances have remained in storage. Is it that they are deemed unsuitable for use in our terrain? If this is the case, didn’t we have some indication beforehand as to the type and capacity of the ambulance? Is this another lapse in our delivery of health care and health service to the people, especially at the community level? Is it that we cannot afford to bring these ambulances into operation? Does someone in the scheme of things consider these ambulances useless? If they are suitable for use here, why are we continuing to deny our people, our women folk especially, this vital service? Answers, please.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.