Vin pages 24 10 14 e reader for website

PRINTER SCANNER COPIER FAX Color scan, Fax forward to email, Network scan, PC/Walkup Fax, Copy/Print speed of up to 35ppm, USB 2.0

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 24, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.43

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

OMNIBUS STRIKE PLANNED FOR TUESDAY Julian Lyttle, NOBA’s VicePresident, describes the situation as having to choose which pot hole to drive through.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

OWNERS AND DRIVERS of omnibuses from Redemption Sharpes are expected to meet on Sunday, October 26, to finalize plans to withdraw their services on Tuesday, October 28.

The decision to resort to strike action was taken last Sunday, October 19, during a meeting convened by the owners and drivers, and is aimed at prompting government to see to having the roads in that community repaired.

President of the National Omnibus Association (NOBA), Anthony ‘Code Red’ Bacchus, told THE VINCENTIAN this week that NOBA is in full support of the decision taken by the Redemption Sharpes omnibus owners and drivers.

Bacchus said he is aware that it is not possible for government to repair all the roads in the country at the same time, and there would be pot holes from time to time.

“We could work with that, but the roads in Sharpes are terribly out of order, and it is a disgrace,” Bacchus said. He pointed out that the problem is not just confined to one particular area, but exists throughout the community, has been lingering for a number of years, and is getting worse and unbearable.

He recalled that omnibus drivers there had come together in the past in an effort to fix the roads with

Potholes abound throughout the road network in Sharpes. concrete, but they were stopped by the authorities.

“The van owners/drivers now like they spinning top in mud because they have to take the money they make, to buy vehicle parts almost every week, so they are fed up,” Bacchus added.

He made it clear that the planned action by the Redemption Sharpes omnibus drivers and owners is in no way levelled against the travelling public, and he apologised for any inconvenience it may cause.

He urged citizens to support the possible strike, re-emphasizing that “the problem has been lingering for a very long time and is getting worseand out of control.”

Eric February of the Montain View Adventist Academy is the 2014 Lions/LIME Public Speaking Champion. He beat Damali James of the Bishop’s College Kingstown into second place and Creslon Fraser of the St. Vincent Grammar School into third.

Choosing from among the pot holes NOBA’s VicePresident, Julian Lyttle, owner and driver of the popular

Redemption Sharpes omnibus ‘Westside’, told THE VINCENTIAN that the roads in that community are so deplorable, drivers have to choose which pot hole to drive in, and that some of the holes are so deep that residents have to pack dirt in them.

St. Clair Leacock, MP for the area, understands that the owners/drivers would want to keep their action nonpolitical.

Continued on Page 3.

V

2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Be proud of our achievements I wish to highlight here some of the problems which have confronted us over the past few years.

1.

The high cost of oil which since independence has tripled.

2.

Our banana export, which was the backbone of our economy, has plummeted to almost zero.

3.

Tourism, which we had looked to replace income from bananas, has been very MY FELLOW VINCENTIANS, it is weak, influenced heavily by again an honour and a privilege the world’s poor economic to address you on this the 35th performance. anniversary of our country’s 4.

The epidemic of Independence.

Chikungunya, which is now We celebrate this ravishing our shores along anniversary at a time when with the looming threat of the life of every citizen has Ebola, would further impact been negatively impacted by negatively on world travel and the very difficult economic tourism. climate facing the entire 5.

Added to the above, we world. have witnessed severe storms The expected turn around and floods, causing millions of following the economic crisis of dollars in damage.

2008, has been painfully slow, We need to be cognizant of and the projection for the next the fact that all these adverse two years is that most events are not of our making countries are likely to show and over which we have no insignificant growth, if any at control. The cumulative effect, all. This economic however, means that our small environment makes it very economy is in a stranglehold, difficult for small states such with increasing pressure being as ours to survive and prosper. exerted on our standard of MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY SIR FREDERICK N. BALLANTYNE, G.C.M.G., MD, DSc GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES TO MARK THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES 27TH OCTOBER, 2014

living and the quality of life of all our citizens.

Many businesses are on the brink of bankruptcy, and many persons are without work, and find it difficult to meet their basic needs.

The question then, which all of us must ask, is “Where do we go from here?”

The fundamental problem facing us is how can we overcome these negative forces. We all have different solutions to the problems facing us, and since we are stronger collectively rather than individually, I again make an appeal for all of us to join forces to forge solutions for the benefit of all.

I wish particularly to beg for more tolerance, especially to those who have opposing views and who under economic stress are “edgy” and easily resort to violence.

I ask that we make an extra effort to be more respectful to each other. If you truly respect yourself, it would be easy to respect others and forgive them some of their short comings.

I will not reiterate here the need to respect the environment, to help prevent a

repeat of the disastrous floods, the beach erosion and the proliferation of mosquitoes.

We need more than ever to be kind and generous, especially to the poor and unemployed.

As a country we are too poor to waste any of our resources; each of us needs to commit ourselves to stamp out wastefulness in our daily lives.

In spite of the various challenges, we can still be proud of our significant achievements in the fields of health, education and poverty alleviation. We cannot allow any erosion of the gains made over the 35 years in these fields.

Above all, we need to work harder, not only to preserve our own job, but to improve the productivity of the country, while efforts need to be made to try to create employment for the many, many able-bodied men, women, boys and girls who are unemployed.

Like you, my fellow Vincentians, I love this country and all of its people. I have faith that if we work together, we will find a way to

Sir Frederick Ballantyne make the future better for all of us.

More than ever, we need the strong to help the weak, and the rich to help the poor.

Let us in our daily lives strive to lift each other up, not only physically, but in spirit, and with God’s blessings we will not only survive but prosper.

My family and I wish you a happy, incident free Independence.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 3.

News 3

Mother shot dead in daughterÊs presence

Aninka Stowe became this country’s 30th homicide victim for 2014 and the latest to die from a gun-related crime.

by HAYDN HUGGINS ZENIKA STOWE, an 8-yearold girl whose mother,

Aninka Stowe, was shot dead in her presence, last Monday night, has been having nightmares since

the incident.

Aninka, a 23-year-old resident of Redemption Sharpes, was reportedly shot while closing her mother’s shop at Green Hill, in the presence of her boyfriend and Zenika.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that they had already turned off the lights and were about to close the business place, when the shots rang out. Aninka reportedly ran into the shop when she was hit and died on the spot. Her last words were “Oh mother.”

The assailant is believed to have hidden in some nearby bushes to carry out the attack.

Aninka’s mother, Esther Stowe, told THE VINCENTIAN that she heard two explosions from her Redemption Sharpes home that night.

Esther had left Aninka to carry on business at the shop around 5 pm that day, the last time she saw her daughter alive.

Esther said that since the incident, Zenika has

been walking in her sleep and saying that a white paper was in front of her.

The grieving mother of two, Aninka being the first, said she is puzzled as to why anyone would want to hurt her daughter.

“Since she born, she never dey in no quarrel or no fight with anybody,” Esther recalled.

Aninka was employed as a time keeper with the Green Hill housing project at the time of her death.

Zenika, her only daughter, is a third grade student at the Lodge Village Government School.

Esther has been fearful since her daughter was shot.

“I don’t think I would operate that shop in the night again,” she said, adding that life may not be the same for her again.

“I would miss her very much. She use to help me, she was my right hand and she was

Magistrate tells women to respect themselves MAGISTRATE CARLA JAMES, Tuesday, chided two young women who were found guilty of fighting on the precincts of the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, October 2.

James described the women’s behaviour as despicable.

“You need to respect yourselves and each other. You need to respect yourselves as young ladies,” the Magistrate told Linda Billingy, 29, of Buccament and Geraldine McDowall, 32, of Rillan Hill, after finding them guilty of Affray.

Section 82 of chapter 171 of the revised edition of the laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2009

states that any person who takes part in a fight in a public place, is guilty of the offence and liable to imprisonment of one year.

Prosecutor Constable Shamrock Pierre referred to the section during his closing submissions.

Billingy and McDowall were without legal representation.

Upon conviction, following a trial which had commenced the same day, the women were each fined $150 to be paid by October 28 or one month.

Constable Coleen Samuel testified that while she was in court on October 2, she received information that there was a fight in progress just outside the precincts

of the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

When she went outside, she met the defendants engaged in a fight. She approached and separated them, then informed them that it was an offence to fight in public, and that she would be charging them.

The women admitted, in their defence, that they were fighting, and each accused the other of starting the fight.

Billingy was also convicted of assaulting McDowall. She had spat on McDowall following an exchange of words while being escorted from the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court to the Central Police Station, after being arrested in connection with the other

loving,” Esther sighed.

She revealed that Aninka had many plans to advance her life. She was particularly interested in Nursing and about three weeks before her death, she went for an interview as

she sought employment in that field.

Up to press time Wednesday, police were continuing their investigations.

Esther’s death has chalked up the homicide count for the year to 30.

Omnibus strike planned for Tuesday Continued from Front Page.

“Almost every week, we have to change a vehicle part because of the condition of the road. In this case, we are not making anything off the buses, we are losing because we have to spend the profit we make on vehicle parts,” Lyttle explained.

He recounted that some time ago, parliamentary area representative St. Clair Leacock sought to have the roads repaired with concrete through a community effort, but he was denied permission by the authorities.

“So he can’t help, and government is not doing nothing to help, so we reach to a stage that we have to strike to seek government’s assistance to fix the roads,” Lyttle contended.

He pointed out that the omnibus drivers would like to fix the roads voluntarily, but they are not allowed to put concrete in the holes. He lamented that the situation is also affecting pedestrians and some of them have damaged their feet during their journey.

“It is unfair for us to be working in those conditions; we pay our licences and taxes like everybody else,” Lyttle underscored.

Keeping it non-political

Magistrate Carla James had some stern words for two women who were engaged in a fight in a public place. incident. For this, she was ordered to pay compensation of $150 by December 22 or one month in prison.

Billingy was also bonded for six months. In breachs she would have to pay $1,000 forthwith or three months.

Other omnibus operators from the community, including the popular Dexter ‘Happy’ Rogers, stressed the deplorable condition of the Redemption Sharpes roads, and urged the public to support the possible strike on Tuesday.

Parliamentary representative for the area, St Clair Leacok, when contacted, said the issue was brought to his attention, but the Redemption Sharpes omnibus owners and drivers have not sought his support directly. He indicated that it was their initiative and he expects they would want it to be non-political, since they are supporters from the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) and opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) who are omnibus owners or drivers.

But he declared, “I would support any lawful action that is taken that could bring about improvement of the roads for commuters and van drivers alike.”

Up to press time Wednesday, efforts to reach Senator Julian Francis, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Transport and Works, were unsuccessful.

V

4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Randolph Russell laid to rest Students of the School for Nursing have much for which to thank Randolph Russell.

distinguished entrepreneurs, served as Minister of Health in the Labour Party government from 1974 to 1981.

Former Speaker of the House Monty Maule, in his eulogy, alluded to Russell’s independence, judgement, humility and sensibility.

Born in the South Leeward village of Questelles, Russell attended Randolph Bertie Russell Primary School in that community RANDOLPH BERTIE RUSSELL was laid to before secondary education at the rest in the St. George’s Cathedral Church Intermediate High School.

Yard last Wednesday, following a full The young Russell did a period of state funeral. apprenticeship as a Motor Mechanic at His body was at the House of Marshall’s garage in Arnos Vale. He Assembly from 10:00 am last worked as a Pump Operator in the Wednesday then paraded to the Dutch Caribbean Island of Aruba for Cathedral with military rites. five years before he returned home.

Born November 22, 1927, Russell, one of this country’s most Business

Randolph’s Russell’s body lay in State in the parliament Building where his wife, Gwendoline, accepted expressions of sympathy.

His career as a businessman took root when he was involved in the purchasing of the Lyric Cinema and Hotel, around 1952.

His role in the expansion of the Lyric Trading Company identified him as a man with keen acumen.

The Lyric Trading Company served as agent for National Bulk Carriers in New York, and that connection enabled scores of Vincentians to gain employment as seamen.

When he broke with that company, Russell oversaw the expansion the formation of the West India Development Company which occasioned the Russell’s Cinema, established a soft drink bottling plant which bottled, among other drinks, the internationally renowned Coca Cola, and pioneered the shopping complex concept with the opening of the Russell’s Shopping Centre.

If one thought that his ideas for businesses were complete, Russell ventured into the hospitality industry with the purchase of the Tropic Breeze Hotel in West St. George and Mariners’ service at Walliabou.

Randolph Russell deservedly enjoyed the full rites of state in his final send off.

established during his tenure as Minister of Health from 1974.

Russell fell out with the Labour Party in 1981, and even though he never surfaced in the political arena after 1984, his passion for the progress and development of this nation never diminished.

Tributes

Current Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves acknowledged Russell’s foresight. He described him as a man with visions far beyond his scope - a “trail blazer.”

Former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell recounted having a lot in common with Russell, and noted that they both resigned from the Labour Party.

“Who else has the guts to resign from anything these days?” Mitchell queried.

Former Parliamentarian and businessman Ken Boyea was struck by Russell’s commitment to Agroprocessing, and echoed the sentiments that Russell would have preferred this country to export products made from arrowroot starch, rather than shipping out the raw material.

Politics One with Indian origins, Russell was not ashamed of his roots, and R. B. Russell, like many Junior Bacchus was generous in his businessmen of his day, entered remarks of Russell’s commitment to the political arena, and by 1967, he was chairman of the Kingstown the cause of the Indian Heritage Town Board, a postion he held for Foundation, of which he, Bacchus, is Chairman. the next two years.

Russell was a family man, and his As a member of the St. Vincent wife, Gwendoline, came in for Labour Party, he won the East recognition for her role in being a Kingstown seat first in the 1972 source of inspiration in his life. general elections and then again Ethnicity aside, his son Kirk was in ‘74 and ‘79.

Both the School of Nursing and grateful for the lasting lessons of honesty and faithfulness his father the first off-shore medical school, taught him.

Kingstown Medical School, were

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 5.

Regional

Cuba-USA co-operate in anti-Ebola fight CUBA STANDS ready to cooperate with the United States in the battle against Ebola, former leader Fidel Castro said in an article published last week Saturday, October 18.

“With pleasure we will cooperate with U.S. personnel in that task,” the 88-year-old ex-leader wrote in the Communist Party daily Granma. He Cuban doctors and health workers arrive at Sierra said it would not be to Leone’s Freetown airport to help in the fight seek peace between two countries long at odds, but against Ebola in. (Photo: Florian Plaucheur/ AFP/ Getty Images) “for the peace of the world.” money, but there are also those who Castro did not say what form can send human resources. It’s not just cooperation might take, choosing doctors. We also need nurses, instead to take the higher ground, technicians,” he said. saying, “Such medical cooperation is In Washington on Friday, John “the greatest example of solidarity that Kerry, US Secretary of State, a human being can offer.” mentioned Cuba as one of the “nations Observers stood and took note of large and small stepping up in Castro’s declaration, especially in light impressive ways to make a of the fact that the United States contribution on the front lines.” actively works to dilute the Perez said that despite the United effectiveness of Cuba’s overseas States’ chilly 55-year relationship with medical assistance.

Cuba’s communist government, The State Department is known to Kerry’s words were “an important run something called the Cuban gesture.”

Medical Professional Parole Program, Cuba has been sending healthcare which encourages Cuban doctors and workers to Africa since the early nurses (along with their families) to 1960s, staffing clinics and training apply for asylum at US embassies, and medical personnel, including in helps facilitate the paperwork. The Guinea-Bissau, Uganda and program began under George W. Bush Equatorial Guinea. but continues with Barack Obama, When white doctors fled South and is largely targeted at Cubans in Africa after the end of apartheid, Cuba Venezuela. stepped in.

Cuba has already dispatched 165 According to one report, Cuba in healthcare workers to Sierra Leone to 2007 had 30,000 healthcare help that country fight Ebola. Another professionals, including 19,000 doctors, 296 doctors and nurses are scheduled working in over 103 countries. (Source: to arrive in Liberia.

Cuba News) The U.S. is sending hundreds of soldiers to set up clinics and train health care workers, and it also has sent officials from the Centers for Disease Control to help in training.

Jorge Perez, the head of Cuba’s top tropical medicine institute, told The Associated Press on Friday that Cuba is ready to send still more doctors The first batch of 165 (63 doctors and 102 if there is enough funding and infrastructure to support them. nurses) Cuban medical personnel were welcomed by the President of Sierra Leone, “There are countries that Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, in a special have resources and can send ceremony at the State House.

6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 7.

Independence Feature

Independence Day 2014: Believe would be depleted over time; if we do not grow as a people, we would falter; if the nation does not go forward, it would go backward. In order for us to progress as a people, we INTRODUCTION must believe steadfastly in St. Vincent and the THIRTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, St. Grenadines. I believe in Vincent and the Grenadines St. Vincent and the became an independent Grenadines. I believe in nation. On that day, our Caribbean civilisation October 27, 1979, in our of which our nation is an Constitution, we reaffirmed integral and vital part. that our nation is founded on the belief in the GLOBAL CONDITION supremacy of God and the freedom and dignity of man.

Fellow-Vincentians, the We solemnly expressed, current global sociothen, in our foundation economic and political document, that we desired condition which impacts our society to be so ordered our nation and region is as to express recognition of fraught with complex democracy, free institutions, difficulties and challenges. social justice and equality These include: the slowbefore the law. In our quest down in the growth of the to realise the maintenance world economy; the of human dignity, we unconscionable pledged to safeguard the dismantling of trade right of privacy, of family preferences for bananas life, of property, and to for small states like St. foster the pursuit of just Vincent and the economic rewards for Grenadines; the harmful labour. conflicts in Iraq, Syria, the Today, thirty-five years Middle East generally; later, on behalf of the Ukraine; international sovereign people of St. terrorism; the spread of Vincent and the infectious diseases like Grenadines, I reaffirm our Ebola; and the deleterious commitment to these consequences of climate freedoms, principles and change. We in St. Vincent ideals. Accordingly, we and the Grenadines and proclaim yet again our the region do not unwavering belief in God contribute to any of these and our bedrock belief in impactful problems, but St. Vincent and the we are on the front-line in Grenadines. A nation facing the pressures and does not stand still. If we hardships flowing theredo not add constantly to from. our noble heritage, it Regionally, the

BY DR. THE HON. RALPH E. GONSALVES PRIME MINISTER OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

connected, though distinct, unravelling of CLICO and BAICO insurance giants, the stresses of some indigenous banks and other financial institutions, unsustainable public debt levels in most countries, devastating natural disasters, and an increasing incidence of serious crimes, homegrown and imported, have added to the troubling socio-economic woes.

Yet, we cannot allow the global and regional difficulties and challenges to overwhelm us or to prompt us into a negative posture. We have many good things going for us, especially our people’s resilience, their capacity for hard and smart work, their astuteness in finding spaces and opportunities for advancement in the global and regional apparatuses; the solidity of their tried and tested values, our instinct towards solidarity in the face of natural disasters or other travails, and the bundle of natural resources at our disposal for creative use.

2013, and two prolonged droughts in the first five months of 2010 and 2014.

In the aggregate, these natural disasters caused loss and damage amounting to EC $600 million or roughly onethird of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Christmaseve disaster alone amounted to $330 million or 17 percent of GDP. In that disaster, twelve of our citizens lost their lives.

We remember them today with reverence, in solidarity and fellowship, and in our prayers.

Over the last ten months since the Christmas-eve disaster, our people and their government have responded admirably to rebuild the lives and material conditions of families, communities, and the nation. In this process, we have been accorded prompt, and ongoing assistance, from friendly governments and institutions regionally, in our hemisphere, and internationally. We thank them from the bottom of 2010 to 2014 our hearts. In our profound gratitude, we In the last five years, assert that we are not, as 2010 to 2014, inclusive, St. yet, out of the proverbial Vincent and the woods. There is much Grenadines has been work to be done in the struck hard by five (5) enterprise of relief, major adverse climate rehabilitation, and events: Hurricane Tomas sustained recovery. in October 2010, the April Despite all the Floods of 2011, the challenges and difficulties Christmas Eve disaster of facing us, the economy of

in SVG

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been recovery, slowly but surely. Since 2011, positive economic growth has been recorded for every year. The aggregate real economic growth in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has increased by 4.9 percent for the threeyear period 20112013, inclusive. This improvement has just about edged ahead of the aggregate decline in the economy for the three-year period 2008 to 2010, inclusive. Still, the Dr. economic recovery is too slow, and uneven, to absorb an acceptable level of new entrants to the labour market while maintaining the existing workers at their jobs, particularly in the private sector.

Hon. Ralph Gonsalves

unprecedented $20 million housing reconstruction programme after the Christmas-eve disaster, and continuing; the exceptional $6 million softloan programme to farmers through the Stateowned Farmers Support PROGRESS AMIDST CHALLENGES Company; the modernisation of the Yet, your government health sector and has ensured that we not enhanced delivery of only hold things together, health services as but advance, in progress, necessary accompaniments on several fronts. To to the Education begin with, employees in Revolution; and the the public sector, targeted public including in the central investments in the Police, government, have not Coast Guard and Fire been laid off as a Services, regional air consequence of any transport, and natural economic or fiscal disaster management. challenge. Indeed, more Concurrently with all persons are currently this, and more, has been employed in the state the ongoing construction, sector than in 2008, at the without let up, of the start of the global Argyle International economic downturn. This Airport, a long-held is especially so for vital dream of generations of public sector employees Vincentians which is such as teachers, nurses, about to be realised with doctors, police officers, and the airport’s completion public servants generally. and opening next year.

Moreover, special Those Vincentians, at employment programmes home and abroad, who exist for public works and have not yet visited the for university and site of this marvel of Community College — the national, regional and Support for Education and international solidarity, Training (SET) should do so. I am sure programme. that it would please them There have been, too, enormously. no spending cuts in critical areas such as CHIK-V AND EBOLA health, education, housing, national security, Despite the remarkable and agriculture. We have advances in our health been both enterprising and wellness sector, and prudent as all the including in public health, circumstances demand. and our health The delivery of laptops partnership with other (almost 30,000) every governments and student, first in primary institutions globally, and then in secondary including nonschools, has been an governmental example of a dramatic organisations, threats commitment to our young loom large. First, there is people and their the pesky Chikungunya, education. Other and now, Ebola. examples abound in other areas such as: the Continued on Page 73.

V

8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 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 Independence Day, more than a day of celebration THE VINCENTIAN extends hearty wishes to Vincentians here and abroad, on the occasion of another anniversary of our country’s independence.

Needless to say, come the 27th October 2014, we will celebrate our 35th Independence Day. That is the Day we celebrate as the day when St. Vincent and the Grenadines got its freedom from British rule, after a long period of struggle that began with the wars fought between the indigenous peoples and the invading British forces.

On this Day, we recognized the strides forward that we have made in those 35 years and ought also, to pay homage to all those who would have fought, within and without the boundaries of our country, for our freedom; those, high and low, rich and poor, educated and uneducated, who sacrificed their lives in order that we may be free of foreign, colonial rule.

Yes, on the historic Day in 1979, then Prime Minister, Milton Cato, addressed the new nation.

His (and history will judge) was meant to be a speech that brought about a rise in spirits all over the country and among the thousands of Vincentians who resided abroad. A rise in spirits because we were realizing a dream — a dream to be an independent nation, free from oppression and domination by the British, and the making of a commitment not to turn on ourselves in manner and style of those from whom we had broken the handcuffs of bondage.

This year 2014, we have completed 35 years of this freedom. But like every year before, we choose to celebrate it with a flag hoisting ceremony, a military parade, an address (usually one that does not break the language of a political campaign) by the leader of government, and a myriad of cultural programmes and sport events, organized by schools, communities and private sector entities, the last named welcoming the Day to spawn their wares and turn profits.

We will, again, boast about how the capital was washed in the national colours, and (how) there was an outpouring of a sense of nationalism, some say even patriotism.

But it should be that every Vincentian, regardless of class, colour or creed, should not just embrace Independence Day as an occasion for celebratory exercises, excessive indulgence in wine and song, and for donning national colours. Every Vincentian should also understand the importance of Independence Day. Understand that Independence Day is all about reminding ourselves of the great ideals which were the foundation of the dream of a free St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as envisioned and partly realized by our founding fathers.

It should also be a day that reminds us that our forefathers have done their fair share of duty, and it is now our responsibility, not some select group of one persuasion or the other, to shape and form the future.

Independence Day should remind us that this country now looks up to us to do our part.

Unfortunately, in this modern age, too many of us are so busy enjoying our lives, that we do not spend an iota of time reflecting on the importance of this Day, and the commitment that comes with it.

It is as if we have thrown caution to the wind and accepted whatever may be, or simply have abrogated our responsibility, and sense of nationalisn and nationhood, to an elite class of politicians and business leaders.

In so doing, we have allowed our land to be overcome with corruption, crimes of all magnitudes, abuse of women folk and children, cultural expressions that encourage sexual licentiousness and sub-cultures of one sort or the other, even as we boast of ‘Education for all’, and repeat the glorified goal of building a new post-colonial society, that is informed and formed by our own hands.

On this the 35th anniversary of our independence, we ought to make a pledge, if we truly love this country, to make it a safe St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a place worth living in and for by every Vincentian.

That is as good a place and a ground on which to continue the quest for realization of the ideals of a true independence.

Appointing a D.P.P. in St. Vincent and the Grenadines I CHOOSE THIS WEEK, to share an article taken from the “Bar News’ Vol 1 No 4 November 2003, about an Office which needs serious attention and is partly responsible for the current malaise.

“Superficially, the appointment and functions of a D.P.P in the sub-region look deceptively simple indeed. Below the surface, however, the situation surrounding the D.P.P. could be fraught with many difficulties that relate to the practice of political mischief and a threat to human freedom.

For the D.P.P, though occupying a middle position in the judicial system, is clothed with awesome responsibility that is independently discharged.

Not only is the D.P.P empowered to institute and undertake criminal proceedings, but he can also take over and continue proceedings instituted by some other authorized person and, most importantly, he could “discontinue at any stage before judgment is delivered any such criminal proceedings instituted or undertaken by himself or any other person or authority”.

Those powers are expressly “vested in him {the D.P.P.} to the exclusion of any other person or authority.” Furthermore, in the exercise of these powers, “the Director of Public Prosecutions shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or body”.

The powers as set out in the Constitution are pellucidly clear and come very near within the ambit of its own context, to make the D.P.P., as it were, a law unto himself.

It follows, therefore, that much care and diligence are to be applied to the process of the appointment of a D.P.P. Knowledge of and competence in the law feature prominently but, it is submitted, in these small, two-by-four States riven by party political tribalism, the greatest store would normally be set by the political integrity and independence of the prospective holder of the post.

In considering someone for appointment as D.P.P, it would be invidious and unhelpful to lay down more than broad and flexible guidelines which should be followed with some consideration of the general political context of the times.

Since the start of 2003, there have been reported clashes between the Executive and the judicial components of our constitutional system in the person of Sir. Vincent Beache Minister of National Security, and Mr. Roger Gaspard, then D.P.P. Details would be spared, but the general

drift of the exchanges is significant. The D.P.P had to remind the Minister that there was only one D.P.P. in the State, when the Minister tried to get his way on a matter that fell clearly within the exclusive zone of the D.P.P, who held his ground and stoutly defended his turf.

The D.P.P was then threatened with dismissal, which could not happen under the laws, which are tailored to accord him the requisite protection. Crestfallen and frustrated, the Minister could only promise to seek constitutional amendments that would make the D.P.P dismissable by Cabinet, in other words, making the Executive superior to the Judiciary in the latter’s own sphere of influence, and thus violating and disturbing hallowed traditions that are the very foundation of our democratic system of Government.

The problem was solved- or rather shelved- by the timely completion of Mr. Gaspard’s contractual arrangement, and his replacement, in an acting capacity, by Mr. Colin Williams, in an appointment that has raised certain issues, and has been questioned by the Bar Association.

On the 25th September 2003, the Bar Association issued a public release that was emphatic in its restraint: ‘The St Vincent and the Grenadines Bar Association expresses its profound dismay and concern with respect to the recent appointment of our colleague Mr. Colin Williams to act as Director of Public Prosecutions of St. Vincent and the Grenadines” ‘The Bar Association at no time is imputing anything adverse against the integrity of Mr. Colin Williams, but the Bar Association is steadfast in its conviction that in the eyes of the public, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions would be viewed as having been compromised in its independence by this appointment.”

‘At all times public confidence in the Administration of Criminal Justice must not be undermined.’

The glittering U.L.P credentials of Mr. Colin Williams make for interesting reading.

During the last ten years or so, Mr. Williams, among other offices, served as a U.L.P. Senator in the House, Public Relations Officer of the U.L.P, as well as worked as a partner in the Law Firm of the current Prime Minister.

It is feared that Dr. Gonsalves, who recently published that his Government was not just in office, but “in power”, would bring pressure to bear on a D.P.P who to date, has served him faithfully and well in subordinate positions. “How it go Look.”

Continued on Page 66.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 9.

Letters

Case dismissed!!!

THE PROSECUTION discontinues its case against a charged murderer because witnesses failed to appear in court to testify? So that’s how it works. You can get away with murder if you can instil enough fear in the witnesses against you, to ensure their unwillingness to testify in court.

Isn’t there such a thing as “compellability”, wherein witnesses can be subpoenaed, and if they fail to appear and give testimony, they can be fined or imprisoned? Is it that this is only enforced in non-third world countries, or is murder not deemed a sufficiently serious crime to warrant such proceedings?

Just Wondering

What a country!!!

ANTI-MONEY Laundering Regulations SVG AML & CFT Legislation, Regulations and Guidelines, and CAIC’s AML/FCT procedures and responsibilities require you to bring TWO government ID’s to renew your motor vehicle insurance. The government has to double check itself to make sure they do not give you a bogus ID. If you are the owner but not the driver and the only ID you have is a National ID, as they say, ‘crappo smoke your pipe’.

I have no idea what all the above means; it is a letter I got from my insurance.

We have some really bright people making regulations.

Robbie Williams

Not so free movement of people I AM A SIMPLE man with very simple upbringing, so what I have to say is said as coming from a person who might just not understand all the grand articles and protocols of this thing we call CARICOM. I am of the impression that one of the things we were working towards with this CARICOM thing was to allow persons to move with ease among the many English-speaking countries. However, it seems that the more our leaders meet and make all kinds of fancy decisions, and the more money we spend on building this CARICOM thing, the further we are away from realising this ease of travel business.

Look at what has happened in the recent past: Barbados stopped a Jamaica lady from entering, and that country’s government had to compensate her. Trinidad prevents a ‘load’ of Jamaicans from entering that country, including some who had all right to enter. Now, Jamaica takes revenge and stops some Trinidad Muslims from entering that country to attend a big celebration which Jamaica had allowed in the first place.

And there could well be a lot more examples of one CARICOM country taking unnecessary action against the nationals of another country.

Now don’t get me wrong. Each country has a right to take action to protect itself against criminals and terrorists. But when the authorities begin to behave as though everybody is a criminal or terrorist, then this CARICOM thing seems to be a waste of time and money.

The funny thing is, I think that with all this effort to keep the criminals and terrorists out, they just might be the ones who have learned how to beat the system.

Time that we face up to the consequences of our decisions as CARICOM, or just forget about the whole thing.

‘PG’

Thanks for all babysitters THANKS to Mr. Nelson King for such an informative piece! What I have learnt from this is we should all think before we speak!

Thank God for all the baby-sitters and dog walkers who have contributed to the Diaspora of our island among others.

Cricket, lovely cricket SO OUR GREAT West Indies cricket team is at it again. Not satisfied that they are the highest paid cricketers in the history of West Indies test cricket, the ‘lads’ down their bats, pads, and ‘balls’, and brought the tour of India to an abrupt halt, on the grounds that the ‘working conditions’ that governed that tour were not acceptable.

What else is new? The more things change, the more they remain the same.

Question: Did the West Indies Cricket Board and/or the West Indies Players Association (read its Executive Officer Mr. Wavel Hinds) have any inkling that there was a likelihood that something like this might happen before the ‘lads’ were sent on tour?

I get the sneaking impression that somebody, somewhere in the scheme of West Indies cricket knew that the possibility existed. Why then did they proceed with the tour? Wasn’t this being unfair to the Indian Cricket Board?

Now, we might be caught with a lawsuit by the Indians, claiming millions lost by the curtailment of the tour.

There is never a dull moment in West Indies cricket. A lot of it is a comedy of errors, and the Administrators are the primary actors in this ongoing series.

Pat

Canouan woes!

I AM WRITING you to let you know of some of the things affecting security on this little island of Canouan.

First of all, early this year, our security manager was relieved of his duties. He and another individual were not charged for removing the dead body of a construction worker, who died after falling from a truck. They removed the body even before the police or doctor arrived. Several months later, after all the Police Officers at the Canouan Police Station were changed, that said security manager returned. His return brought woes on the Reader department, beginning with the removal of the four (4) days which helped officers to go home to St. Vincent to be with their loved ones.

Secondly, officers are refused unpaid leave. The avoid the interference — and I make no working conditions in certain areas are unhealthy apology for the use of the word — by and unsanitary. The quarry, for instance the area our politicians. We have had too where the security booth is located in the quarry is much of that, and we continue to surrounded by water when it rains. When asked to suffer because of that. have it moved, the response is, “We’re looking into This is a cricketing problem that it” for months now. Whenever these conditions are needs to be addressed by cricket reported, they are ignored. There is no union to administrators and players, and if it defend officers, and as a result, they are stuck with means firing all those prima donnas whatever treatment is handed out to them. and setting a new course for our During the job interview, security persons are cricket, then so be it. assured that they would get time to go home to be with your families, but only to find out when you Patrick, R get here, it’s a different case. This has caused a lot of destruction to families, even in a case where an officer got so frustrated after he learned of infidelity If you pursue a brother that he went off claiming he was sick To the very doors of death Prosper gloatingly in his impoverishment and committed murder.

Dismiss his entreaties for reconciliation Something has to be done to teach And publicise that with the developers that they do not own Discreditingly low vulgar language Canouan and the people.

Forgetting or being indifferent to My question is: Does it have to lead His past years of faithful service to something unbecoming happening ..to you for the relevant authorities to look into How could you truly entertain the hope this issue”?

To embrace him in the halls of Heaven?

That heaven would then be…..Rather A concerned worker Like this earth A hell of a place…. Indeed!

Editor’s Note: Efforts to reach an appropriate person on Canaoun for a Editor’s Note: This poem was recited by its writer, response to issues raised in the above Leroy Providence, at the Literary Fair held letter, proved futile up to press time. recently at the UWI School of Continuing Studies.

Cricket in a mess again!

SO HERE we go again, around the mulberry bush we call West Indies cricket. The prima donnas of our cricket — those overpaid players — have brought the game we love so much, into disrepute.

What bothers me most of all is all the conflicting information and misinformation that have been circulated.

Among other things we have heard were: that months ago the WIBC and WIPA signed an agreement which provided for remuneration for the players; that some senior players claimed that their representative should not have signed the agreement since he did not have the approval of the players, while word was that some did sign on to the agreement; that the players had indicated earlier that the rates of remuneration did not meet their satisfaction.

Why is it that there always has to be a cloud of doubt hanging over what we are fed about our cricket? I realise that a lot goes on behind closed doors that we will never hear about. But that does not mean that ‘big men’ shouldn’t come out and tell the truth, admit they are wrong, and get on with solving the problems.

I still hope that those who know the real truth would come clean. This will

Comrade, E G Lynch on my mind

10. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 11.

Independence Feature

Happy 40th Independence St. Vincent and the Grenadines

INDEPENDENCE MESSAGE fabric. As parents lost

by OPPOSITION LEADER employment, so too did HOn. Arnhim Eustace children lose education.

The few church leaders HOW HONOURED AM I to who spoke out did so at address my fellow citizens dear cost. Our youth this 27th October, 2019, disengaged and lost our 40th year of interest. We lost our Independence from Great Independence.

Britain!

Now on our 40th Our Independence, like anniversary of that of so many Independence this 27th progressive movements, day of October 2019, we has been hard fought. are cautiously optimistic And, like other small and determined to recover island developing states, and to grow. In the 2015 our Independence — 2019 period, we have movement did not see the seen the signs of social, realization of our hopes economic and political and dreams for renewal. Since the NDP sovereignty and selfvictory at the polls in determination in the 2015, government has set dramatic lowering of a about the business of weathered Union Jack governing and not and the raising of the politicking. There is no starched, new flag of our NDP Government, just fledgling nation, but in government, plain and the desperate battle that simple. The civil service is ensued in the earliest run more efficiently and decades of nationhood. with improved morale as The past 40 years have civil servants and the been as undulating, as up general public observe the and down, as our promotion of Vincentians landscape is of all political stripes to mountainous. In high-level government surprising respects, these positions on the sole basis 40 years have mirrored of merit. Also, the the 400 years before government no longer them. Now as then we competes with the private have borne witness to the sector and as such rise of would-be slave entities like Vincy Fresh masters and the are creatures of the past. consequent creation of the Government instead slave; so too we have seen works with the private the popular uprising like sector to stimulate those of 1937 and economic growth. The elections 2015. As under government is our colonial rulers then, aggressively repaying its we have withstood, of private sector debt. Since late, the rise of the neo2015, our diaspora no colonial overlord parading longer simply sends in revolutionary fatigues. remittances to their Our lows of the 2001 — families but is actively 2014 period have been involved in trade and humiliating: We investment in the nosedived from consistent Vincentian economy. economic growth in the When the private sector 1980s and 1990s and an grows, so too does IMF rating of “much to employment. To this end, praise little to fault” to 3 the government has years of negative attracted investments in economic growth and low the information growth in the years 2008 technology sector which to 2014 and a reputation too have impacted as the regional begging positively on both bowl. When Trinidad and employment and small Tobago declared that it business development. could no longer operate as Similarly, government anyone’s ATM, the rest of leaders no longer stifle the region gave St. free speech by suing every Vincent side-glances and critic for defamation of whispered about us none character, and the press too softly. As we investigates and speaks approached the 2nd more freely to the issues decade of the millennium, impacting our nationals. unemployment soared, Following the and local institutions of prosecutions of several which we were proud corrupt government started to buckle — officials in the postBuilding & Loan and the election 2015 — 2016 NIS have found their period, graft and footing since 2015, but we corruption have fallen to still mourn the loss of the record lows. Some of the NCB. The precipitous rise public’s faith in the in violent crime, in judicial system and the particular robbery, protection of their right to murder and rape, helped freedom of expression has to create a state of been restored. Our national nervousness, and calypsonians belt out deep political divisiveness commentary with ripped through the social abandon. The tenders

board operates transparently. For the past four years, farmers have been realizing profits for the first time since 2010, and there are now the beginnings of an exodus of nationals from unemployment to selfemployment as farmers.

And, with the operation of the large-scale primary and secondary schools book loan scheme, student enrolment and attendance are up. The proliferation of smart labs has made free internet access a reality for children and adults alike. We are also

by and large a healthier people as we complete the second stage of our stateof-the-art national hospital in East St. George, replacing the beleaguered Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in Kingstown. Now fellow OECS nationals come to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for healthcare. People also come from the OECS and far further to enjoy Vincy Mas once more. A simple sign of national optimism is the return of house parties as Vincentians once more can afford to

celebrate and fraternise, and the caustic divisions created by divisive politics fade away and guest lists are no longer dictated by political affiliation.

This October 2019, as we prepare for elections 2020, Vincentians can see clearly that whatever their choice, it shall be reflected in the official outcome of our first free and fair elections in fifteen years.

Hon. Arnhim Eustace I have no fear of the future, and neither should Happy Independence, you, for now we all St. Vincent and the master our collective Grenadines! destiny.

V

12. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

SkarpyonÊs Miss Windward Independence on tonight

recording and performing artiste, former Calypso THIS EVENING, Friday, and Ragga Soca 25th October, beginning at monarch, Shernelle 8 o’clock, the Greiggs Old ‘Skarpyon’ Williams. It School will take on a forms part of the Shernelle ‘Skarpyon’ demeanor of a difference, commemoration of Williams is bent on when six beauties light up ‘Skarpyon’s’ 25th showing real appreciation the area in the Miss Anniversary in the music for all the affection he Windward Independence business. has received from Pageant.

As far as shows go, persons throughout the The show is the brain- Ms. Windward state. child of renowned Independence may

by GLORIAH…

appear to resemble other pageants, but fundamentally, some elements will be different. For one thing, it has, at the root of its conception, a deep-seated desire of its producer, ‘Skarpyon’, to give back to his fans, one community at a time.

Why give back

In an exclusive interview with THE VINCENTIAN, ‘Skarpyon’ showed profound appreciation and recognition for his fans’ belief in him.

“When you listen to people, even little children, singing your song word for word, man, that really makes you real proud.”

He said that it was out of a constant show of affection, wherever in the country he goes, that he felt obligated to give something back.

When asked why Greiggs in the first instance, he explained, “Let me tell you, these people sing my songs, even at karaoke. They support my music and show me so much respect!”

This show, he said, will provide an opportunity to the ladies which they probably would not have received.

The singing sensation is proud to have personally worked with the young ladies in the enhancement of their self-esteem, presentation skills and other personality attributes.

Cornelia Forbes Fort Charlotte

Chantel Johnson Joseph Chatoyer

The show – what to expect The Miss Windward Independence Pageant is billed as a cultural pageant. Each contestant is expected to educate the audience on individuals and places that feature in our history.

The contestants are: Nadine Davis, representing the Botanical Gardens; Cornelia Forbes, representing Fort Charlotte; Angell John,

Angell John Ebenezer Joshua

Continued on Page 66.

Nadine Davis Botanical Gardens

Jolantha Toney Robert Milton Cato

Lenaza Johnson Fannie Greigg

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 13.

V SVG cannot prosper without highquality education 14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Our country is in a mess and after 13 years in office, the ULP regime still fails many thousands of Vincentians. Agriculture IT IS 35 YEARS since the is in crisis, poverty is promise of independence increasing, was realised, but our unemployment is high, country still fails under an crime is out of control, inept government. The public debt is high, and 27th October 1979 was the education revolution meant to be the start of is failing our children. independence, but rather This is no plan for than cut the umbilical cord independence. of dependence to the UK, It is the families of successive SVG the poor who suffer the governments, including most. How can children the ULP regime, have just in poverty celebrate hooked up additional independence, when umbilical cords to other many go to bed with an richer nations. The slave empty belly, many live in mentality of the ‘begging households that are bowl’ approach still exists. unable to afford Independence Message 2014 From Leader of SVG Green Party, IVAN O’NEAL

electricity and water, and many are being denied high-quality education?

The St. Lucian Opposition Leader, Allen Chastanet, has called for PM Kenny Anthony to resign as Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs, claiming that he has shown very little competence in managing their country’s fiscal situation.

SVG Green party also demands the resignation of Gonsalves, as he has been utterly hopeless in managing SVG’s public finances. The ULP regime lacks the longterm vision needed to create an independent

nation, built upon highquality education and a strong sustainable economy.

The main components that shackle our people in poverty and our country dependent upon other nations, is Taiwan using our deep-sea tuna fishing licence, and the discriminatory tax exemptions given to Taiwan and the superrich of Mustique and Canouan. These two policies, upheld by the NDP and ULP regimes, are the wicked evils that hold our country back.

Our people need emancipation from the gross injustice of discriminatory laws that

let super-rich foreigners prosper with taxexemptions, whilst Vincentians suffer being taxed to the extreme.

Long-term, sustainable independence for our country will only be achieved when we have a strong economy. We must cut ties with Taiwan and open ties with China, and urgently build our own billiondollar tuna fishing and fish processing industry.

We must also put highquality education at the heart of our economy, and build our own science and technology university to educate our people.

Ivan O’Neal For true independence, a Green government will abolish these discriminatory tax laws that punish our people. This will help to boost the economy, create thousands of new jobs, help SVG businesses to prosper, and create the revenue needed to competently manage the socio-economic and financial affairs of our beloved country.

May God continue to bless SVG. Happy 35th anniversary.

V Police seek verification on foreignerÊs status

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 15.

News

The lawyer contended that, had the vessel not encountered engine problems, he would have A FOREIGNER who entered the country illegally was regularised his stay with the Immigration remanded until today (Friday), for the court to await authorities, since he had no intention of violating verification on his status, before sentencing him. the laws of this country.

Kai Berg of Germany was, on Tuesday, taken Now that his engine is repaired, he is prepared before Magistrate Carla James at the Kingstown to leave within 24 hours, Bruce told the court, Magistrate’s Court, where he pleaded guilty to and suggested that he be reprimanded and entering the state at Cumberland Bay by boat on discharged. On the issue of deportation, he asked April 10, and disembarking without the consent the court to find a more innovative way of having of an Immigration Officer. him leave the country.

Prosecutor Assistant Superintendent of Police It was at this stage that Supt. Gregg informed (ASP) Glenford Gregg informed the court that the the court that the police was seeking verification defendant was in possession of two passports — on the defendant’s status.

German and Polish. While the German passport The court had earlier heard that on October 18, carried the name Kai Berg, the Polish one had a members of the local coast guard on sea patrol different name. along the Leeward coast, were informed by a Supt. Gregg said Police here contacted the Customs Officer that there was an occupant on a International Police Organization (Interpol) to yacht in the area, who was hostile towards her. verify the man’s status and were awaiting a Coast Guard officers then boarded the yacht response. As a result, sentencing was adjourned and questioned that occupant who indicated that to today. he was a German national. His passport was Berg’s lawyer, Israel Bruce, told the Court that examined, revealing there was no entry stamp. As his client is a 31-year-old German national with a result he was handed over to the Immigration Polish connections, who came here to share in the authorities. Checks were made at all ports of country’s beauty and tranquillity that “we entry, and there was no record of him entering promote in the Eastern Corridor of Europe”. the state legally.

When his client arrived here, according to Gregg informed the court that Berg had Bruce, his vessel encountered engine problems previously visited St. Vincent in November 2012. which he set out to address, but did not complete He had been given one month to stay and left in that exercise until about a week ago.

December.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Kai Berg leaves the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court for Her Majesty’s Prison where he will be held on remand until his status is verified.

V „It takes a community‰ 16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Independence Address – 2014 MICHAEL F. CHARLES, Commissioner of Police

FELLOW VINCENTIANS, the time is here again when we celebrate the birth of our nation, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This year, as we commemorate our Thirty-fifth (35th) year of political Independence, I bring you greetings on behalf of the men and women of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and its Auxiliary Forces which includes: Traffic Wardens, Rural Constables and Tourist Police.

As I reflect on the year under review, I am

reminded of Charles Dickens’ epic novel, “A Tale of Two Cities”, wherein he said, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”. The period under review was ‘the best of times’ for the following reasons - all of which are not exhaustive: 1. Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mr. Sydney James was voted “ Investigator of the Year”- 2013 by “ INDICTMENT”, a quarterly Newsletter for Investigators and Prosecutors serious about Crime, for his contribution in leading the way in video recording of suspects.

2. The successful passing of fourteen (14) Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects by Ms. Delight Ollivierre and Messrs Sherwin Peters and Richard John, former students of Mountain View Academy and the St. Vincent Boys Grammar School respectively.

3. The running of the innovative Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic (STEM) programme by Mr. Petrus Gumbs and others.

4. Able Bodied Seamen Damian Franklyn and Brenda Durrant placed 2nd and 3rd respectively

in the Regional Security Systems (RSS) Junior Leadership Course in Antigua and Barbuda.

These, in my humble opinion, are achievements that we as a nation can justly be proud of, because these individuals and countless others, too numerous to mention, are nation builders, and I congratulate them.

Conversely, however, ‘it was the worst of times’ because during the period under review, there have been too many instances of senseless killings (mainly by the use of firearms) and acts of violence and crimes perpetrated by persons who are against nation-building, development and enhancing the peaceful and tranquil nature of our blessed Hairouana. I wish to reiterate to the citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, that the issue of effectively tackling crime and violence warrants a holistic approach - it takes the effort of the entire community to deal with this scourge in our multi-island state.

Violence is never the answer to deal with problems; we have to be able to deal with our disagreements in a civil, commonsensical and mature manner.

My fellow citizens, I

urge you to utilise the various Legal Institutions set up in our country to deal with disputes; be it criminal or civil. If your brother or sister offends you, try to deal with the matter in a peaceable and loving manner; but if that approach is not feasible, report the matter to the Police, instead of taking “vigilante justice”.

The Police are duty bound to protect and serve the citizens and general public on a whole. I am aware that there have been complaints against some Police Officers for their inactions in dealing with reports made by members of the public. I want to assure you that this issue is being and has been firmly dealt with. As a matter of fact, disciplinary charges have been instituted against Officers who are found to be culpable.

As I stated on a previous occasion, St. Vincent and the Grenadines does not manufacture guns; however, the proliferation of firearms and related offences in our nation is of growing concern and an issue which we have been and will continue to confront vigorously. For 2014, the Police have been successful so far in removing thirty-eight (38) illegal guns from off the streets.

I wish, therefore, to remind all that only Police Officers and other persons who have a valid licence to keep a firearm, should be in possession of such. Persons who have illegal firearms in their possession, I urge you to visit the nearest Police Station and hand them over. If you do so, you will not be penalized; but if you don’t, and are caught in possession of same, you will be prosecuted.

My fellow citizens, the Police value your continuous support and contribution which you have given over the years. This assistance has enabled us to reap success in keeping our communities safe from year to year. I, therefore, ask of you to continue that valuable partnership with us, as we need each other in order to keep our communities safe and

Michael F. Charles bring the criminals to justice.

The Police have recently acquired some new vehicles, and we are using them to their optimum to respond to reports from citizens and conduct patrols. We recognise the importance of response time in crime fighting; hence we are very grateful for these new resources from Central Government. I wish at this time to also thank and commend those members of the private sector and the public who continue to donate invaluable crime fighting resources to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force — let us concretise this relationship further in the future.

In conclusion, I commend you the Officers of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and its auxiliaries, for your performance of an ever increasing, complex and taxing duty especially those of you who would have performed above and beyond the call of duty. I wish in the same breath, however, to urge you to do more - improve on your ‘game’ because the public needs your ‘best’ at all times. I encourage you to take another look at your ‘Oath of Office’, and in your own quiet time, retake your oath, because that oath is your mission; it is what you are supposed to do on a daily basis. Take a fresh guard and let us take the fight to the criminals, with renewed vigour, strategy, intelligence and resolve.

I wish all a Happy Independence 2014, and may God Almighty continue to bless us, our families and our nation.

Thank you.

18. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

to the Government and People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on their

35

INDEPENDENCE

1979-2014

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 19.

News

Eustace disappointed with judgement

by DAYLE DA SILVA LEADER of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace has expressed his disappointment with the judgment handed down last week, in the case involving former Registrar, Tamara Gibson-Marks.

Speaking on the New Times radio programme on Monday, Eustace said that in the minds of many Tamara Gibson-Marks, Leader of the opposition Vincentians, former Registrar faced a Arnhim Eustace warned maximum penalty of two that people were going to justice was poor. years in prison on lose faith in the judicial “And it really, summary conviction, on system. this decision of each of the two charges the court, even people and a different type the charges were she was asked to answer. for another set. lacking and the “We must not tolerate this as a decision taken as far as that is nation.” concerned sends a wrong message to Eustace further contended that the population of St Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly to the young there have been more interventions people in our country,” the opposition into criminal matters by the Director of Public Prosecutions within recent leader said. times — more so than at any other The former Registrar was fined a total of $10,500, $4,500 on the charge time in the country’s history.

He referred to the number of cases of theft and $6,000 for abuse of office. that have been nolle prosequied Magistrate Carla James handed “It is being used very often today by down the penalties at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week Tuesday. the DPP, and we wonder why now, Marks pled guilty to the charges of what is it about this time that we find ourselves dealing with this issue, dishonestly appropriating $21,925 every time something is nolle between April 30, 2014 and May 21, prosequied. It is just ridiculous,” 2014.

Eustace said.

But according to the leader of the This type of justice was tearing at opposition, the judgment sends the the fabric of the Vincentian society, message to the population that there have been lesser crimes committed to according to Eustace, who added that people were not going to have faith in which severer punishments were the judicial system. served.

“People are very annoyed over this Eustace said that the population issue and for obvious reasons,” he should not be made to believe that said. there is one set of justice for one set of

20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 21.

Economy

Cocoa industry gets new boost

plants at no cost to farmers, before the end of the wet A RE-CAPITALIZED and reseason. structured St. Vincent Cocoa In addition, SVGCC is Company (SVGCC) has taken now collecting wet root here. beans from farmers It was originally set up by for fermentation at Amajaro who sold to E-com, Dixon. that ceased operations here “It is critical that earlier this year. the cocoa beans are Andrew Hadley, Manager fermented in one of the original company, and place so the process Manager of the new can be closely company, disclosed at a managed,” said press conference on Hadley . “Customers Wednesday, that the new want a consistent company had as its principal quality, and that shareholders Harry Morris, cannot be achieved if a British National with each farmer has his Vincentian citizenship, own way of Vincentian Ruth Maloney fermenting beans,” he and a number of local added. investors, including himself.

The wet beans will After a period of be purchased at restructuring in August EC1.35 per pound. /September, the company is Hadley explained, “now open for business,” “The peak buying Hadley said. period starts when According to Hadley, “The the dry season company is now well commences in financed and totally December/January. committed to build on the We are using the foundations laid over the time until then to last three years, towards work out our pick-up building a sustainable and and logistic successful cocoa industry in processes.”

St.Vincent.”

Farmers can He said that SVGCC is expect to be paid (for delighted to continue their wet beans) the working with E-com to day after pickup; the establish the cocoa supply initial payment chain from Kingstown to would be 80% of the ready buyers in Europe and expected final price America. and the remaining As it stands now, the 20% two weeks later.

SVGCC has retained “We won’t know management of the nursery the yield and quality at Dixon and is working of the cocoa — the closely with the Ministry of volume of the dry Agriculture to distribute bean coming from the wet beans — until they are fermented and dried”, “said Hadley.

Other services that the SVCC will offer include training for farmers in cocoa production, pruning, fertilization of tree and harvesting.

And in Andrew Hadley, Manager of the disclosing SVCC, announced that his company had already begun to purchase wet his company’s beans.

by KENVILLE HORNE

drive to lease land for cocoa cultivation, Hadley declared, “We got to try as a country to grow as much cocoa as

possible, and if we could harness it now, I think that down the road, we would Beans purchased by SVGCC really benefit strongly”.

22. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 23.

V

24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Vincy Pride live happily in the yoke of slavery to anyone. They were humane; they welcomed and assimilated shipwrecked Africans, both into their tribes and IT IS THIRTY-FIVE YEARS into their families. They since we ran our new flag were not the savages that up the flagpole, replacing Europe made them out to the Union Jack. Thirty-five be. years since we confirmed A very small nation of the coat of arms with our just 150 sq. miles with motto: Peace and Justice. approximately 110,000 Thirty-five years since our people at the last count, National Anthem has guided yet one that has produced our people and our men and women of conscience. We are a distinction, intellectuals, nation! Our forefathers outstanding persons in the chose to take the road of line of civic duties, sports independence rather than and entertainment. Many remain mere subjects of the are our unsung heroes, British Empire. and the following is a Vincy Pride has run in select list of Vincentians the veins of our who fill us with pride: forefathers from the Joseph Chatoyer, earliest times. Our Paramount Chief and forefathers have been National Hero; George fearless and resilient in McIntosh, pharmacist and defending these islands trade unionist; Hugh against all threats. For Mulzac, sea captain; over three hundred years, Ebenezer Joshua, former they defended this Chief Minister; Sir Rupert homeland against the John, first Governor; Earle might of Europe.

Kirby, veterinarian and Capitulation was not an archaeologist; Ellsworth option! It is better to fight ‘Shake’ Keene, poet and to the death for the dream jazz musician; Earlene of being a free man than INDEPENDENCE MESSAGE From the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council

Horne, trade unionist; F. O. Mason and Mike Findlay, cricketers; Kineke Alexander and Pamenos Ballantyne, athletes; Adonal Foyle, Sancho Lyttle and Sophia Young, basketball players; Gloria Ballantyne, netballer; Elliott ‘Mori’ Millington and Pete Morris, footballers; Frankie McIntosh, Patrick Prescod, Kevin Lyttle and James ‘Jamesy P’ Morgan, musicians; Alston ‘Beckett’ Cyrus, calypsonian; Franklyn Seales, actor.

These national personalities fill us with Vincy Pride. Yes, Vincy Pride is alive!

But Vincy Pride which kept us free for several hundred years and brought us to independence, seems to be in very low stock today.

Our streets, our parks, and our roadways are littered; many of our public buildings are in disrepair; our rivers are polluted; our mountains are raped by slash and burn agriculture; unemployment and

Congratulations

tto o th the he G Government ove ov ver ern rn nmen me ent nt & Pe People People ople of St. St V Vincent inc ncent en nt & th the he Gr Gre Grenadines re en en nadines ad dines ne on th the he o occasion ccasio ion on off ou our ur

335th 5tth

Anniversary iversar y of Independence Inde ependence

YOUNG ISLAND RESORTS is pleased to offer the following specials:

Barbeque Buffet Lunch - Independence Day - Monday 27th Curry Buffet Lunch - every Sunday (children under 8 years are complimentary, conditions apply) Afternoon Tea - every Sunday (subject to availability)

Barbeque Buffet Dinner - every Saturday night (Complimentary glass of wine per person)

Captain Bligh Bar - Daily Specials Day Room Special for 2 or more persons (Cottage, Lunch & Complimentary drink) For enquiries and reservations, Call 458-4826 email: frontdesk@youngisland.com

“Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.”

Proverbs 29:18 (NIV) “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”

Proverbs 29:18 (KJV) The political directorate now needs to switch from the campaign mode to running the country. The government is now responsible for ensuring that the brightest and the best fill the positions of state. Good governance sees people as citizens, not party members or voters.

Do we, in our beloved land, have ruling parties, or successive governments? Instead of building the nation, there seems to be a continual canvassing for the next election, or rewarding for Hate Talk the last. These are not Listen to the media and principles upon which we hear the levels of hate talk can build a democracy. that exist on a daily basis! This is political patronage; This inflammatory speech it leads to corruption, hate talk and the unraveling of has become a national cancer eating away at the the democratic institutions of the nation. body politic, eroding our sense of decency, and Vision replacing it with a false pride and arrogance and Greece, at the time of hate. This new discourse the great philosophers, is not politics. It is was a string of islands tribalism! It is being exploited for political gain. that had no real advantage over the big It is dangerous and landmasses that demands our strongest rejection. If you wish, it is surrounded it. The Greeks one of the major social ills committed themselves to reason and excellence. which now confront us. If Twenty-eight hundred we are not careful, if we do not curb it, if we do not years later, we still quote exercise restraint, then we them, teach courses on them, and use them as may very well wake up The Family guides to thinking and one morning wondering whether we are reliving a moral reasoning. They The family is the loadcontributed far beyond chapter of Rwandan bearing wall of civilization. It holds up the history or apartheid South their size, because they committed to a set of whole edifice that keeps a Africa! We will find bloodshed and murder for values and principles. people striving for no good reason except that What will our legacy be? greatness. It installs the What have we committed we have allowed our core values that help the to? What are we leaving young grow into men and politics to divide us. We as a legacy to our children have allowed unbridled women of deep character and grandchildren? and sound moral values. It tribalism to be the core Will it be Vincy Pride value of our nation. And if is in the family that we as honour, respect, dignity first learn to win and lose indeed we have, why are with humility, to love and we surprised at the rise in and patriotism? Or Vincy Pride as hubris, be loved, to belong and to crime and violence in our arrogance, license and nation? attach to ourselves those tribalism? Of course, the From captain to cook, who can be trusted. answers to these questions parliament to radio talkIn St. Vincent and the reside with us. Sacred host and commentator, Grenadines, we are Scripture reflects the hope pastor to social analyst, fostering a culture where that ‘if my people who this hate speech has many men, rather than bear my name humble infiltrated and being fathers, are now themselves, and pray and undermined the fabric of simply ‘sperm donors’ seek my presence and turn our democracy. Our taking no responsibility from their wicked ways, I forefathers fought for for their actions or the myself will hear from freedom! Have we children they leave heaven and forgive their exchanged it for personal behind. Women are sins and restore their gain and political exchanging true equality land’ (2 Chron 7:14 — the patronage? for license and loose Lord’s words to Solomon living. Commitment, in a dream on the Political Patronage marriage, fidelity, virtue, completion of the Temple). and moral living are oldAs we celebrate our Political patronage is fashioned ideas that we thirty-fifth anniversary, the twin sister of hate now believe belonged to speech. Together they are we MUST decide what the colonial era. As such, destroying the foundations type of nation we want to we have left Vincy Pride become. of Vincentian civility. behind, exchanging it for May God bless our When a political party hubris and arrogance. Is Nation. the Living God at the core wins an election, it becomes the government. and centre of our poverty are rising; the drug trade is escalating; incest and sexual exploitation remain hidden secrets, thus punishing the victim even more.

Vincy Pride used to be a set of civic values that were the core of this civilization. Honour, respect, integrity, truth, loyalty were watchwords by which our forefathers lived. Today, Vincy Pride seems to be hubris, arrogance, selfishness, and satisfying base instincts.

Heritage Square is a place where genuine prayer for the nation is sidelined by political speeches/agendas, and where the night gives way to the celebration of the baser instincts, as the young surrender good order and civility to license. We call it culture!

It is not! It is the inflammation of desire gone mad, undermining the very foundation of our noble Caribbean civilization. Is it not said that without a vision, the people perish? Is wantonness the best vision we can muster? Are we becoming the best version of our self?

civilization? Or have we replaced our forefathers’ God with the new gods — money, sex, power? Do these new gods have their adherents in SVG? Do we venerate and worship these gods of desire more than we give our lives to the True and Living God? When we look at some of the activities of Heritage Square, Parliament, our Christian churches, our schools and our families, you have to question; you have to wonder!

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 25.

In ati celebrat ra r at ating ou r 35t 35 5thh Anni 5th An Ann A nivive iveer ersrsa sary sary of In Ind ndep deppend ennde ddeence ence andd Homec Ho H eco com om min mi ing ng Let us reflec L Let ct on ou ur re resp pon nsibillitty to nat na ation-building ng, re emembering eme ng alwa a way ays ys tha at the challen ng ges w we fac ace e sh hould ne nev eve ve er detter te uss fro rom pla acin ng the na attion at nal int nte tere restt firstt.

The journey has just st be egun. There are mo m re st stones to be b laid l id as we sttriiv ve for gro ow wth and dev ve elo opment that wiill bring us closer to our desttiny off prosperity and pea p ce for all Vin ncentians.

Offf Off f fice e of the Prime Minis ster te Dr. The e Hon. Ralph Gonsalves G

V

26. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

Police Co-op gets Trinity assistance MANAGER of the SVG Police Cooperative Credit Union Ltd., Mrs. Mulcaire Seymonde, has expressed gratitude for the assistance rendered by students of Trinity School of Medicine, during her Credit Union’s Customer Appreciation Day activity.

The activity, involving blood pressure and sugar tests and the serving of nutritious snacks, was held on the compound of the Credit Union’s office, situated in the Central Police Headquarters in Kingstown, on Thursday, 16th October, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Seymonde was eager to note that it was the Credit Union’s 9th Customer Appreciation, organized to mark International Credit Union Day, but it was the first time that the blood pressure and sugar tests were offered.

Three groups of students from Trinity, in two shifts, conducted the tests.

When THE VINCENTIAN visited the event, Much traffic was seen during the activity with persons willingly coming forward to have the procedure

administered.

Trinity student, Cherelle Smith, speaking to THE VINCENTIAN during the activity, said, “It has been going quite well so far.

We have been having a majority of persons with normal blood pressure readings for the most part. For those coming, they are doing so voluntarily. We are looking forward to even more visitors, though.”

An overtly satisfied Seymonde said, “They are doing an excellent job. They are very professional.

They are courteous and we are pleased with what we are getting from them.”

She reported that the year 2015 will see celebrations of the Credit Union’s 10th Anniversary and plans are already afoot to hold another such activity. “We

Police officers used the opportunity to learn about their blood pressure and blood sugar status. are looking forward to contacting them again,” she said.

The SVG Police Cooperative Credit Union Ltd. is open to membership from the general public and reinforces this with its motto, ‘You do not have to be a police to be a member’.

Membership stands currently at 1,700.

Farmers getting serious about squash CLOSE to 30 farmers on the Windward side of the island were afforded the opportunity to participate in the Ministry of Agriculture’s first demonstration exercise for the planting of Butternut Squash.

The vegetable is among the list of five (5) commodities named to be exported to the UK market through a collaborative project spearheaded by Ministry of Agriculture and Winfresh. The other commodities include; Hot Peppers, Sweet Potatoes, Ginger and Yams.

Speaking at the exercise, Chief Agricultural Officer (CAO) Leslie Grant said the Ministry will be providing 100 percent support to the farmers.

Coordinator of the Export Project, Colville King, told the farmers present that the project is geared at replacing the earnings lost from the once beaming banana industry. He said St Vincent and the Grenadines is known for its diversified agricultural commodities.

Meanwhile, two (2) farmers; Hazard Joseph and Allan Pilgrim also spoke highly of the project’s positive impact on farmers, their communities and St Vincent and the Grenadines on a whole as a result of the export project.

The demonstration exercise was conducted by Philbert Gould, a vegetable expert within the Ministry of Agriculture Farmers interested in being a part of the project can collect forms from agricultural stations and extension officers as well as the main office at the Ministry of Agriculture.

CONGRATULATES THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR

35th YEAR OF INDEPENDENCE

MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP US TRUE Telephone: 784 458 8773 Facsimile: 784 458 8831 Email: info@ccalimited.com

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 27.

Independence FEature

Call for prayer for our nation

by BISHOP SONNY WILLIAMS – Presiding Bishop (Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

IN MY 2013 Independence Message, a call was made for prayer for the nation.

This year, I feel immediately constrained to make another call to pray for the nation.

Some may ask: “Is prayer for the nation really necessary?” Others may reason that if God is sovereign and will accomplish what he wants, then why should we pray. God is not offended by the questions of a sincere seeker. Those who seek wisdom He will not rebuke. God is not like some parents and teachers who give an infant a knock on the knuckles for asking, “Why?” Given the external and internal threats and challenges we are facing as a nation, do our prayers really matter?

Can our prayers really change things? S. D. Gordon was right when he said, “You can do more than pray after you have prayed but you cannot do more than pray until you have prayed. Prayer is striking the winning blow — service is gathering up the results.”

John Wesley supports this position when he wrote, “God does nothing on earth save in answer to believing prayer.” The sovereign, omnipotent God needs our involvement in

shaping the nation and its future through prayer.

Our prayer can bring revival, healing and change in our nation.

Strangleholds can be brought down by persistent prayer. E. M. Bounds boldly said, “God shapes the world by prayer. The more praying there is in the world, the better the world will be, the mightier the forces against evil…. . The prayers of God’s saints are the capital stock of heaven by which God carries on His great work upon earth. God conditions the very life and prosperity of His cause on prayer.”

This full realisation of the potency of prayer should motivate us to adopt a lifestyle of seeking God for our nation. God has chosen from creation to work on earth through humans. God needs faithful men and women to work through. Dutch Sheet’s way of thinking was correct when he said, “God needs human hands to heal, human voices to speak and human feet to go.”

The story in 1 Kings 18 shows how God used Elijah to accomplish His will through prayer.

Elijah’s prayer did not only bring rain, but it stopped the rain for three years earlier. James, in his New Testament, commenting on this episode, concluded that it was “the effectual fervent prayers” (James 5: 17, 18) of Elijah that stopped and brought the rain.

The example of Daniel supports the premise of

Bishop Sonny Williams the absolute need for prayer. Daniel discovered it was time for Israel’s captivity to end, and was moved to pray. He did not passively wait for the fulfilment of the promise of restoration. He understood that God needed his involvement.

Like Elijah and Daniel, God needs our prayers.

This is a humbling responsibility that God, whose existence and character are completely independent of us, and who has all the resources in His hand, needs our prayer to work through.

On this 35th Anniversary of Independence, I want on behalf of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies, St. Vincent and the Grenadines District, to urge us to embrace this incredible invitation to partner with God through prayer in the realization of His purpose for our nation.

May the awesome power of God cause His Kingdom to come to our nation.

28. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 29.

V Let independence allow us to renew our faith in God 30. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Independence Message by the Patriarch of the Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese SVG, His Excellency the RIGHT REVEREND EDMUND ERDLY JOHN

FELLOW CITIZENS and Vincentians within and outside of the Diaspora, my Archbishop, the Right Premier Frank Simon, my Chancellor Reverend Parnell Campbell, Bishops, Council men and women, Ministers, deacons, deaconesses and members of the Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese, a happy 35th Anniversary to you.

Today, I lend my voice to the tremendous notes of the hallelujahs of this nation’s 35th independence. Alas!

I must say, the dumb man might eloquently speak miraculously, the amputated man with his crutches shall leap for joy, and the man with failing eye sight shall see the light of glory that shines even in the darkest night, giving him reflection of our nation’s independence. In our declaration of Independence “All men are created

equal. They are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are life, liberty and pursuit of happiness.” According to Abraham Lincoln, whenever Government becomes destructive towards these ends, it is the rights of the people to alter or abolish the government and institute a new one.

The questions before us today are: “Has this government become destructive to the inalienable rights of the people? And do we still have the same equal rights in this country? This independence should not only give us the dynamism to answer these questions, but allow us to renew our faith in God; for it is only through faith we can see clearly the invisible destruction that is before us. We need to become spiritual visionaries, for it is only through faith can we behold Jerusalem’s Lamb the Lord Jesus Christ, and it’s only through him, this nation can be provided with an alternative, not to be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good.

Through faith in God, we can build this nation, just as Jesus builds His churches, on one man’s (Peter’s) testimony ‘that Jesus Christ is the Son of the living God’. Jesus said “upon this rock”; upon this confession of faith, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

Let us praise Almighty God as we remember our history, and our destiny ‘for all ah we’, as Alleyne colloquially puts it. We must thankfully acknowledge God’s great goodness toward this nation in the past, the present and in the times to come. We can depend on and hope for this goodness from God. Whatever good things God has given to us, it is His will that we make the most comfortable use of them, and in return, offer our baskets of first fruits; that is, giving back something to God. Today, the men and women of great vision and courage who secured our liberty, giving us equal chance of living, are enunciated, and we are enumerating the many milestones that this country has crossed; and correctly so; but must pause to argue that it is high time for this nation to change for the glory of God; for each of us to experience the awesome move/power of God in our lives, replacing our stony, empty, wicked, deceptive and badminded hearts with one of love, compassion and consideration for our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, elderly, children and the youths of this nation that are quickly dwindling away.

Fellow citizens, the blessing of this independence should be enjoyed by all but while this sunlight has brought joy to some, it has brought fear and hopelessness, discrimination and death to others. I can hear the hopeless cry of the 5-15 year-old children who are sexually molested amidst the jubilant shouts of independence. I can hear the agony of those youths who have committed and are attempting suicide

Patriarch Edmund John because of the unfair demands placed upon them by society. I have seen the increasing expulsion-revolution in the schools that is being mistaken for education revolution, in that youths are put out indefinitely from schools, with no hope for the future. Yes, I can hear the silent hopeless cry of farmers who toiled all day and are unpaid, unable to maintain their families because their crops and livestock are eaten up by disease and the unpredictable weather, or stolen by unscrupulous people. Yes, the cries of those persons who indiscriminately lost their jobs due to political interferences and work-mate jealousy with no redress, are heard loud and clear. I have seen the increase in immorality that is almost unstoppable, perpetrated even by the very officers of independence. Aren’t we ashamed?

It is now clear that we have waited too long to ask the right questions and we are going too slow to address the concerns that threaten our nation’s people.

I am appealing to our government, our people and the Spiritual Baptist community to respect, protect, preserve and support this nation and our Spiritual Archdiocese by denouncing, condemning and eradicating the chaos of immoralities and violence from among us. Let each of us play our part to make this nation of St.Vincent and the Grenadines the strongest of all nations, as we seek to be a people that God blessed and commissioned.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 31.

V Ju-C is back!!

32. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Inc.(ECBI), a subsidiary of Eastern Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), launched JuC in 350ml and 600ml plastic bottles, together with a Ju-C Cola.

The Ju-C Cola is new to the brand. It replaces the internationally renowned Pepsi Cola, for which the new operators did not receive a bottling franchise, as enjoyed by the original manufacturers.

As of yesterday, consumers would have begun to enjoy, once again, the iconic Red Ju-C and an orange flavor, as well as the Workers at the re-commissioned factory at Campden Park display an air of satisfaction as they play their part new Ju-C Cola.

According to Lorne Holder, in returning locally manufactured Ju-C for the enjoyment Sales and Promotion Supervisor of Vincentians home and abroad. at ECBI, consumers can look

by KENVILLE HORNE forward in early 2015 to added flavours, including pine apple, apple, banana and THE ONCE OVERWHELMINGLY popular, locally ginger. manufactured soft drink, Ju-C, is back on the Plans are also afoot to introduce, in early local market.

2015, a 1.7L bottle for the Ju-C line. The Locally manufactured Ju-C, an aerated ‘Village Ram’ line and a Ju-C Water (purified) drink, appeared in outlets across the state will also be introduced. yesterday, Thursday 23rd October, for the Holder also confirmed that distribution will first time since March 2011, when operations be island wide, with the new operators ceased under the original manufactures, deciding to continue with the use of trucks, a Bottlers (St. Vincent) Ltd., and workers hallmark of Ju-C’s original reach and service, received their letters of retrenchment. and in keeping with the new operators intent At a press conference held last Tuesday at to re-establish the brand as ‘..a Vincy Thing’, the ECGC Compound, Campden Park, new available right at your doorstep. operators, East Caribbean Bottlers

Severance pays not EGCG concern, says CEO THE OUTSTANDING MATTER of severance payment and other benefits to 65 workers who were retrenched when Bottler (St. Vincent) Ltd. ceased operations in 2011, is not expected to affect the operation of East Caribbean Bottlers Inc. (ECBI).

Osmond Davy, Chief Executive Officer of the Eastern Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), principal shareholder in ECBI which has assumed the operations, albeit scaled back, of Bottler (St. Vincent) Ltd, made this observation last Tuesday at a press conference.

The press conference was called to launch the return of the popular Ju-C line of soft drinks to the local market.

Addressing the matter of severance, Davy made it clear that neither ECGC nor ECBI was responsible for paying the severance pay and benefits to former employees of Bottlers (St. Vincent) Ltd., which has since gone into receivership.

“The legal implication is that the Receiver is obligated to pay severance. In terms of the amount, the amount is being calculated based on years of service and time of closure,”

explained Davie According to Davy, the Union representing the workers is Osmond Davy, CEO/ECGcC is currently in dialogue with hopefully that the matter of the Receiver, severance pay “so it’s not for former something Bottlers (St. that is being Vincent) Ltd ignored …..it is in progress, employees would be settle and I am of soon. the feeling that it would be settled shortly.”

Negotiations between the Commercial technical and Allied Workers Union, representative of the former employee of Bottler St. Vincent Ltd., and the Receiver are said to be ongoing. Information speaks to an amount of EC$1.2 being required to make settlement with the retrenched workers.

In the meantime, Davy disclosed that up to 18 former employees of Bottler St. Vincent Ltd have been employed with the new entity.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 33.

Diaspora

Outpouring of prayers at anniversary service

and Dr. Lincoln Crease offered prayers for the US, the Government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the youth, peace and thanksgiving, Children assemble while Dr. Roxie Irish respectively, at Rev. Derwin Grant St. Paul’s prays delivers sermon Episcopal (Anglican) Story and photos by NELSON A. KING Church In the Village of Flatbush, naking@verizon.net; Brooklyn, New York. The prayers were neloking@msn.com interspersed with verses from “God US CORRESPONDENT Will Take Care of You.” “We pray, Lord, that you touch the MEMBERS OF THE Vincentian clergy in minds of our young people in St. New York last Sunday offered differing Vincent and the Grenadines,” prayed prayers at an Ecumenical Service of Dr. Irish as president of the BrooklynThanksgiving marking the nation’s 35th based United Vincie Cultural Group of anniversary of political independence.

Brooklyn, as she asked the children in The Revs. Dorage A. Stephens, Cecil the congregation to stand before her.

Durrant, Dr. Roxie Irish, Nelson “We pray, Lord, that you’ll Samuel, Jr., who served as liturgist, remember the poor — as preached in

the sermon,” Stephens prayed.

Durrant, pastor of Bethany Deliverance Church of God in Brooklyn, noted that “it’s you, Lord, who said we must pray for those in authority.

“Lord, God, I bring the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, his family — I bring them before you,” he said. “If there’s any affliction, you’re still in the healing business.

“I also bring the Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace,” Rev. Durrant added.

“Lord, God, let not be any name blame in St. Vincent and the Grenadines but that they’ll (Government and Opposition) work together for the benefit of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Creese, the Calliaqua-born pastor of New Millennium Tabernacle of Praise in Brooklyn, thanked God “because, one day, we’ll land on an international airport (in St. Vincent and the Grenadines).”

But he hastened to add: “I want to thank God that you and I can go back to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and we can leave our doors open.”

Laverne McDowald-Thompson, president of the umbrella Vincentian group in the US, Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO), urged that thanks be given to all nationals, including those in the Diaspora.

“Let us work together for strong representation,” said the Chateaubelair native. “Let’s work together because we care about St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

New York Consul General Selmon Walters said it is gratifying “when we can fly the flag (of St. Vincent and the Grenadines) high and be proud to be a Vincy.”

Some members of the Brooklynbased Cavaliers Sports Club, in dress uniform, attended the Independence Anniversary Church Service for the very first time.

The Church Service Committee was headed by Crispin Friday, elder brother of the Most. Rev. Leopold

Friday, Bishop of the Windward Islands. It also comprised Crispin Friday’s wife, Ancilla. Both are members of St. Paul’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church In-the-Village of Flatbush.

Other members of the committee are: The Revs. Carver Israel, Hoskins Prescott and Dillon Burgin; Deanna Grant; Petulah Commissiong; and Cyril N. “Scorcher” Thomas, ex-Deputy New York Consul General.

Other Celebrations Anniversary celebrations in New York continue this Friday with a Cultural Evening at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Centre in Brooklyn, organized jointly by COSAGO and the Consulate General.

The inaugural Independence Song Competition also takes place on Friday night at Café Omar, corner of Clarendon Road and Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn.

The event is organized by Dynamite Calypso Tent, the lone Vincentian calypso tent in the United States, and sponsored by Standard Shippers on Clarendon Road, owned by Biabou native Gideon ‘Fessy’ Yorke.

Thirteen soca artistes will compete for the crown, according to Arnos Valeborn Ainsley Primus, president of Dynamite Calypso Tent.

The artistes will compete in the following order: Striker, Fabulous T, Wise Guy, John Dougan, Jose Juan, Jakie, Bob MC, Brother Don, Groovey D, Exposer, Dennis Bowman, John Cumbay and Supadex.

They will be judged by Monty Constant, Samuel ‘Kala’ Gordon and Cauldric Forbes.

The Independence celebrations climax on Sunday at Tropical Paradise Ballroom, on Utica Avenue in Brooklyn, with the gala luncheon.

Joanne Legair will be the lone honoree at the event, organized by COSAGO in conjunction with the Consulate General.

34. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 35.

News

The struggle for land was not easy

Persons who attended the opening ceremony of the 2014 World Food Day exhibition were reminded, by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, that land ownership which Vincentians enjoy today was the result of a long and hard struggle.

Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA

More money for farmers THE 2015 ESTIMATES of Revenue and Expenditure will be presented soon, but already Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has indicated that more money will be included to offer assistance to the farming community of this country.

Speaking at last week’s World Food Day exhibition in Kingstown, October 16, Gonsalves said that he intends to add to the EC$6 million dollars already allocated to the Farmer Support Company, and from which farmers have already benefited.

“...and I will find more money to put in the kitty in the upcoming budget,” the Prime Minister promised.

He went on further to indicate that rehabilitative work is expected to begin on some feeder roads and some village roads damaged between October 2010 and December 2013, with the passage of Hurricane Tomas and the subsequent floods.

A lot of money has been raised by the government, Gonsalves said; however, it was his intention to spend it a

bit at a time.

He explained that government had proposed to spend a lot of money on road rehabilitation and river and sea defence work in the New Year.

Under the Farmer Support Programme, which was launched in February, farmers were provided with concessionary loans at two percent interest, in addition to tools and fertiliser on credit.

The funding was provided as a grant by the Petro Caribe initiative.

“WE HAVE TO PROTECT our family farms and do well because the struggle for it was long and hard.”

So says Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Featured Speaker at the exhibition held at Heritage Square, Thursday, October 16, to mark World Food Day. The theme for this year’s celebration centred around the issue of family farms, and Gonsalves explained that family farms, as we know them today, came through a process.

“As a society which has evolved out of slavery and indentureship, family farms did not before the late 19th century, constitute any part of agriculture in this country,” he said.

He gave those in attendance a historical account beginning in colonial times, to illustrate his point of the struggle for the early inhabitants to own land.

The Prime Minister traced the ownership of lands from the indigenous peoples, to the British, who either sold or bequeathed large tracts to ‘deserving’ English colonists, well

into the19th century.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, the first formal division of land came in 1897 when land was distributed in modern day Park Hill and South Rivers. But even before that, following emancipation in 1838, a lot of the African slaves refused to return to estates, choosing instead to set up free villages and occupy and work on crown lands.

“That’s why there are a lot of people who have land for donkey years without title for them, until this government corrected this wrong,” the Prime Minister said, even as he highlighted the role in land settlement and land reform played by George McIntosh, Ebenezer Joshua, Milton Cato and Sir James Mitchell.

“Don’t think I am giving you a history lesson, it has significance.

“And that significance is that what we do with the lands now, years after we fought for it, is that we need to feed the people and make some money and improve the quality of life,” Gonsalves said.

V

36. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Foreign Service

Independence and Interdependence

BEN HARRISON – International Correspondent

INDEPENDENCE DAY 2014 celebrates the 35th anniversary of nationhood of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. But to paraphrase John Dunne’s famous quote, “No man is an island, unto itself”, we could say, “No island is just an island unto itself. We are part of an interdependent global community” No group of dedicated individuals knows this better than members of our diplomatic missions.

There are many stories of our diplomats reaching out helping-hands to members of the Vincentian Diaspora when in need and in mobilizing and facilitating relief aid for St. Vincent and the Grenadines when disasters strike our homeland.

Fitzgerald Huggins (Fitz), now in his second year as Canadian Consul General in Toronto, recently became aware of the availability of surplus fire fighting gear in the inventory of the Toronto Fire Department. He immediately contacted and met with Mr. David Sheen, Resident Chief of Staff Services for the department and was able to secure a donation of 150 complete fire suits, helmets and shoes and 50 fireproof medical kit bags for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Fire Brigade.

He contacted Ken Chitole, owner of Eastern Caribbean Freight Lines (KLC), who facilitated the

shipping at a significantly discounted rate, which was paid through the generosity of GECCU, by manager Lennox Bowman. The shipment which was sent to the Ministry of Health arrived in St. Vincent and the Grenadines last week.

With a total Fire Brigade complement in St. Vincent and the Grenadines of less than 60 members, Huggins would like to see some of the surplus equipment distributed to communities where local cadets and scouts, plus volunteers could be trained in basic fire fighting techniques and be available when fires or other disasters occur.

Hopefully training could also be provided in matters relating to health and safety. Not only would these added services be of tremendous value to communities throughout SVG, but as potential career stepping stones to our young people and all volunteers.

With this in mind, Consul Huggins also made contact with GlobalFire, an operational arm of the David McAntony Gibson Foundation based in Toronto. It is a registered Canadian charity that visits third world countries and provides free local support and training of firemen and allows trained volunteers to help Firefighters and Paramedics in the developing world.

Working in conjunction with the Lion’s Club in

Toronto Fire Chief David Sheen (L) and Consul General Fitz Huggins (R) loading donated items into the KLC shipping container.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, they would provide an excellent service to SVG at no cost.

As we celebrate our independence, we should also recognize the responsibility and the value of our interdependence as members of and within, the global community.

V Response to „Musical Excitement At The GHS‰

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 37.

News

IN RESPONSE TO an article entitled ‘Musical Excitement At The GHS’ by Gloriah, which appeared in The Vincentian newspaper on August 22, 2014, the GHS Alumnae Toronto Chapter wishes to present the true facts concerning the purchase and subsequent donation of musical instruments to its Alma Mater – The St. Vincent Girls’ High School.

Over the years the GHS Alumnae Toronto Chapter has funded various projects. These include, among others, cups and trophies for graduation, scholarships, and monies for the Beryl Boucher Lunch Program. Also, our longstanding and ongoing project involves providing books for the annual Prize Giving and Graduation functions.

In May 2011, to mark the 100th anniversary celebration of our Alma Mater, the Toronto Alumnae Chapter donated a keyboard in memory

of a past president, the late Barbara Cuffy Palmer.

During the planning of our own efforts to celebrate the 100th anniversary in Toronto in 2011, we further decided to donate additional musical instruments, so that a school orchestra could be established.

It was felt that this would be a prudent gesture, as we had already donated the keyboard.

To fulfil this effort, we engaged the Head of the CoCurricular Department at GHS, Mrs. Donna Williams Clarke to request that she provide us with a list of the instruments which she felt would be required to establish this orchestra.

Upon receipt of the list from Mrs. Williams Clarke in December 2013, we contacted the firm of Long and McQuade (a chain of musical instrument stores in Ontario) and with their expert advice purchased 42 musical instruments, which included

The St. Vincent Girls’ High School Orchestra. recorders, clarinets, flutes, violins and several percussion instruments (tambourines, African drums, wood blocks with strikers, etc). In addition, four (4) extra mouth pieces were purchased, so as to allow additional students the use of the clarinets. Cleaning materials for the musical instruments were also provided.

The instruments and

E-mail: mccultd@yahoo.com

supplies were shipped directly

by Long and McQuade to the St. Vincent Girls’ High School in February of 2014, via KLC Eastern Caribbean Freight Lines Limited, who kindly waived the shipping fees.

The GHS Alumnae Toronto Chapter would like to mention that the donated instruments were purchased solely with funds raised by the Chapter over the years. The Toronto

Chapter has never received any subsidies or other forms of government funding, nor has it ever collaborated with any other group or organization to fund this project.

We trust that any misconceptions have now been clarified.

Sharon Fraser President GHS Alumnae Toronto Chapter

38. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V Another teachable moment

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 39.

Independence Feature

Kingsley C.A. Layne, C.M.G AS WE COMMEMORATE the 35th anniversary of our political independence, we have been presented with another powerful “Teachable Moment!”

Once again, a serious crime has been committed against the populace of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines by a senior government official, and, true to form, the perpetrator has once again been given the proverbial “slap on the wrist”.

It forces us, as a people, to take a hard, cold look at the state, and ordering, of our society. Traditionally, in Latin America, if a family from the hacienda - owning classes had four (4) sons, they were allocated as follows: one to the priesthood; one to the public administration; one to the army; and one to business and commerce.

The females were

expected to marry accordingly.

Thus, dynastic control of the commanding heights of the society and economy, the very nerve centers of power, was assured.

When the Faculty of Law at the University of the West Indies (UWI) was being established, I attended some of the preliminary discussions as a student representative, in the capacity of First Vice President of the Guild of Undergraduates at the Cave Hill Campus. The question of absorptive capacity, in relation to the sheer number of attorneys to be produced over time, was duly raised. Surely, we will be over-producing lawyers, relative to the size of our respective populations.

The response from learned senior representatives of the University was pellucid and instructive. The vision was to diffuse the services of this vital discipline as widely as possible into our Caribbean societies, consistent with the economic imperatives of supply and demand: some will go to the bar, and specialized practices; some to the bench, and other areas of the administration of justice; some to business; some to government, local and national; some to regional and international organizations; as well as to other critical areas of need in society.

It was never the

intention to buttress and unleash a predatory and elitist cadre of persons on the Caribbean citizenry.

Lady Justice is symbolically portrayed as blindfolded, carrying a scale in one hand, and a sword in the other.

Developments, like the settlement handed down at the law courts in Kingstown, on Tuesday, October 14th in the case

of the former Registrar of the High Court, will sadly contribute to hardening the skepticism of Caribbean people towards our own Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), and make it unlikely that it will ever get the imprimatur of the electorate as our final appellate court, in a free referendum.

In a functional

democracy, the people have the ultimate power, which resides in the ballot, to elect their governments in regular, free, and fair elections.

Cynicism is rife in our society, and we can talk as much, and as long as we want; but it is only through the appropriate exercise of the sacred franchise, that the people of SVG will re-

emancipate ourselves from a “Babylonian captivity” of our own making.

I wish all our nationals, at home and abroad, a peaceful and contemplative independence anniversary.

Kingsley C.A. Layne, C.M.G

40. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 41.

Congratulations on the 35th Anniversary of Independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN)

42. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 43.

44. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 45.

46. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 47.

Grenadines

Improved monitoring of coral reefs anticipated SIX PARK RANGERS and wardens from Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines were recently involved in a joint training workshop on monitoring coral reef health, organised and hosted by the Union Island based Sustainable Grenadines Inc. The workshop involved both training sessions from 26th September to 3rd October, and field expeditions for a subsequent five days. It was the first Grenadines wide field work expedition by and for members of the Grenadines Network of Marine Protected Areas.

The six rangers and wardens represented six marine protected areas - Grenada’s MoliniereBeausejour Marine Protected Area, Woburn/Clarke’s Court Marine Protected Area and Sandy Island/Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area, and in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Tobago Cays Marine Park, Mustique Marine Conservation Area and the South Coast Marine Conservation Area.

“The participants spent the first four days in Grenada where they learned how to survey fish, corals and the sea bottom, using a well-recognised scientific method to gather information,” explained Myles Phillips of Sustainable Grenadines Inc. “Following the training, we established permanent monitoring sites and did surveys in the six-member marine protected areas, from land and over the course of a five-day sailing expedition,” Phillips added.

Since 2011, the six protected areas have shared information and collaborated to promote the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources that are so important to local communities and to local livelihoods.

Now the network is actively monitoring the health of coastal and marine resources in the Grenadines.

“This is a milestone achievement for the marine protected areas, and can yield far-reaching benefits for the effective management of these national reserves,” commented Ms. Orisha Joseph, Programme and Communications Officer of Sustainable Grenadines Inc. “It has equipped the members of the Grenadines Network of Marine Protected Areas with trained staff who will be able to recognise and track changes on the reefs as they occur.”

The next stage of the work is expected to analyse the findings, compare them with past surveys, and report back to coastal managers, local fishers and communities.

Sustainable Grenadines Inc. will continue to work with the marine protected areas and local communities as they consider appropriate actions based on the findings of the research.

The research was made possible through sponsorship from the US National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, to strengthen coral reef management practices on the Grenada Bank. Scientific expertise was provided by the Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA) Program, an international collaboration of scientists and managers, aimed at determining the regional condition of reefs in the Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.

(Contributed)

The park rangers and wardens from Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines who participated in the coral reef monitoring workshop. (Photo: T. Kramer)

48. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 49.

50. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Agents for:

First Citizens Investment Services Ltd. c congratula congratulates the Government and People Vi Vinccent c & the Grenadines G Grenad renad off St Vincent on the

35 35

thh Ann Anniversary A niversary An niviveersrsaaryy off I Independence Indep nddep depeenden d nncce de

Congratulations and Warmest Wishes are extended to the Government and People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on our

35

th Anniversary of Independence Comp Com Co Compliments mpl pli li lim imen im ents en ts

FFrank ra rank B. B. Armstrong Armstro rong (St.Vincent (St (S St.t.t.V Vin Vi Vin ince cen ceen entt Ltd.) Ltd Lt tddd.)

P.O. P .O. Box Box ox 467, 46 67, Fountain Foun ounta aiin in Tel: T el: el el: 784-456-4002 784 78 844-4 -45 456 6--400 6-4 02 02 Fax: F Fa ax: ax ax: 784-456-4009 784 78 84--45 -4 456 56-4 -400 09

Agents Ag gen nts ts for: fo orr:

1DWXUH &DUH 69* Extends Best Wishes to the Government and People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the Occasion of the

35th Anniversary of Independence.

For all your holiday fresh flowers call us at Tel.: (784) 456-7280 Fax: (784) 456-7445

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 51.

V

52. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

Trinity spearheads Breast Cancer Awareness 5K THE FIRST EVER Breast Cancer Awareness 5K Run/Walk in St. Vincent and the Grenadines was staged here, Sunday 19th October, 2014.

Spearheaded by the Trinity School of Medicine/AMSA, the activity started at the Arnos Vale Playing Field and culminated at the Grass Roots Tennis Courts in Kingstown.

According to Third Term student, Jennifer Miller, organizing a 5K run or walk in St. Vincent was one of the goals she wanted to realize during her time in the country. She explained, “I used to run back home in Denver, and I really wanted to do a 5K here. Last year, I attended the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and I met Dr. Rosalind Ambrose.”

When the idea was introduced to Dr. Ambrose, the President of the SVG Medical Association, she immediately took it on board. Everything else moved swiftly from there.

Co-ordination of the event rests with a Committee, comprising executive members

of Trinity AMSA: President, Chris Acab; Treasurer, Callie Fleck; Secretary, Ethan Burns; and Jennifer herself being the Vice President.

The event attracted participation from students from Trinity and members of the general public, including Ms. SVG A section of the participants in the 5K Run/Walk.

2014, Shedisha Inset: Ginger Tissier and David Browne, winners of the inaugural Breast George.

Cancer Awareness 5KRun/Walk.

Taking top honours among the male participants mins. Neiasha Alexander, an pace for next year’s event, and was David Browne, in a time open competitor, came in asserted, “Next year will be of 22:33 mins. He represented second in 26:44 mins., and bigger, better, brighter, the University of the West Trinity student, Kathryn bolder.”

Indies Open Campus. Trinity Dakkum third in 30:16 mins.

Jennifer Miller, who will students Vincentian Trinity Dr. Ambrose was in praise have completed her Fifth Ronliff Richards (22:50 mins) of the event, saying, “I’m Term and have left St. Vincent and Taylor Zoelle (23:59 mins) impressed at its execution, and the Grenadines by next were second and third notwithstanding the many year October, is quite happy respectively. other commitments the that Trinity AMSA will always Among the females, Ginger students have.” be there to ensure that the Tissier of Trinity breasted the She believes that the event continues. tape first in a time of 26:26 inaugural event has set the

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 53.

54. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 55.

Agriculture

Praedial larceny looms large

anybody make a report (that) ROBERT BALCOMBE, with 40 years’ somebody thief experience in farming behind him, has me tannia, you some advice for dealing with praedial know who sold larceny here. and bought Balcombe, who cited the problems of tannia, and the praedial larceny and lack of markets thieves would as two of the more challenging issues be ‘fraid to go farmers face (See page 17 of THE there. They VINCENTIAN of October 17, 2014), would have to Robert and Renate Balcombe share the joys of marriage told journalists and members of the alongside the frustrations wrought by praedial larcenists. figure out a 2014 World Food Day Committee, different Dermaine Owens, Agriculture teacher at during a visit to his Mount Bentick strategy,” tomatoes, plantains, cocoa, oranges, the Adelphi Secondary School, points to farm last week, that the banana shed advised Balcombe. cherries, among other crops, and how discouraging it is for his students in Georgetown, can be used as a Balcombe’s frustration is shared by are also engaged in poultry to continually lose what they grow to “depot” for more reasons than one. his wife, Renate, other famers in the production. thieves.

“Fridays and Saturdays everybody Langley Park area and Dermaine According to Owens, “Everybody bring their stuff there. Let the The police said they were going to look Owens, Agriculture teacher at the thinks is school things. They come traffickers buy them there. Let the Adelphi Secondary School, over and take what they want, and it’s for the culprits, but the culprits just police and the Rural Constables see continue to take what they want.

The Form 5 Agriculture Science a problem. You have to bring in the who is bringing what, who is buying Owens pointed to how discouraging students at the Adelphi Secondary police every time. We had water what, what it is, how much it is. So grow water melon, cucumbers, squash, melon, they just came and took them. this was for the students, “because they produce stuff and they can’t get any. They can’t see the final stuff.”

THE VINCENTIAN has been reliably informed that, “That is why we had to put that farmers were now even with the introduction of in place measures to deal with being forced to compete Rural Constables, tasked with praedial larceny and special with the prices set by the responsibility of police forces,” Gonsalves said. thieves, who often settled apprehending and charging “But it’s not working as well for less the value of the those who indulge in acts of as it should be working and we crop. praedial larceny, the need to deal with that,” he Balcombe told of the prevalence of the illegal act continued. issue of avocados which has intensified.

In 2007, the Agricultural he said his father used to The Prime Minister has Produce and Livestock sell $1 each, but now he promised that attention will (Prevention of Theft) Act was was competing with the be paid to reviewing and passed and in July 2010, price being offered by correcting the measures used twenty Rural Constables were thieves who would sell commissioned as part of a new the same avocado on the The cultivation plots at the Adelphi to tackle this problem. (See Secondary School has become a article on this page). division of the Royal St market for 50 cents. favourite target for thieves.

Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, to deal specifically with the issue of praedial larceny.

However, even with the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph implementation of Gonsalves admiitted that the the measures, measures put in place to farmers continue to deal with praedial larceny be plagued by were not as effective as problems of theft of expected. their agricultural produce and

by DAYLE DA SILVA livestock.

An article in last PRIME MINISTER Dr Ralph week’s issue of Gonsalves has admitted that THE the measures put in place to deal with praedial larceny are VINCENTIAN featured the not working. problems farmers Gonsalves made the are facing. disclosure last Thursday Robert ‘Bobby’ during an address at an exhibition to mark World Food Balcombe, who occupies over 50 Day, October 16, at Heritage acres of land on Square in Kingstown. which he rears an According to the Prime array of livestock, Minister, one of the problems small ruminants affecting farms today is … and poultry, and “lazy” people who chose to cultivates a variety steal rather than seek of crops, said that employment. praedial larceny He said that farmers had related to him that when they was having an adverse impact on utilise lands above the 1,000 the quality of foot contour, they do not lose produce on the as much, because those distances were deemed too far market.

He explained for criminals to journey.

by KENVILLE HORNE

Praedial larceny measures not working

V

56. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Are the cisterns of justice of the OECS contaminated?

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will, on the 27th October, celebrate thirty-five years as an independent state; but considering our potential exhibited in 1979, we have not gotten very far, or at least not as high as we had hoped to have reached by now. The journey of development for our people began in earnest in 1954 with the advent of Adult Suffrage where the eligibility to elect persons to govern was on the basis of age.

From the mid-fifties, we were decidedly on a path of steady growth, supported strongly by the Banana Industry which brought farmers weekly income. The Agriculture Industry was vibrant, and the staff of the Agricultural Department was keen and responsible, and interacted positively with the farming community, influencing the farmers to adopt more specific approaches and systems of cultivating.

Farming was a family occupation, activity, business.

The men cleared, ploughed/hoed the land; the women planted and weeded; the children took care of the animals: pigs, sheep and goats, and every member participated in the reaping and the transporting of produce. St. Vincent, seen from the air in those days, resembled a massive well-manicured garden, with its symmetrical contours and varied crop green hues.

On the ground, farmers’ enthusiasm was evident, there seemed to be an abundance of healthy food and fish. In the villages, the early morning saw a hive of activity, farmers - some on donkeys, others on foot, and some women also would be on their way to their farms, some as far as three or four miles away. Those farmers who kept milking cows, would have left for the mountain/farm between three and four o’clock in the morning, to be able to do their milking at break of dawn and be back in the village by 7am or so, in time for the children to have it for tea/breakfast. Sometimes, it was the job of the strong youngster to go to collect the milk from his father and bring it back to the village for his father’s/family’s clients before he went to school.

Leon ‘Bigger Bigs’ Samuel can tell you about that aspect of family farming. That is how the families and SVG were organized almost one hundred years ago.

Farming was the keel of the ship on which the nation sailed.

There was peace, harmony and good neighbourliness prevailing in the communities. There was little crime and violence, and those who broke the law were dealt with according to the law. There was justice and peace in harmony with our motto- Peace and Justice! Those on whose shoulders fell the responsibility to govern, seemed to sincerely pursue the welfare of the community. While it has come out that some civil servants had not been honourable in the discharge of their duties and were involved in mischief, withholding from ordinary citizens information which could have assisted in the personal development of those persons so cheated, the knowledge of their misconduct was not so publicised as to affect generally the respect with which they — the errant public servants, were held.

While it can be said that we in St. Vincent are materially better off, more developed than we were after 1945, it must be admitted that the psyche of the nation is weaker, the cohesiveness has been compromised, and morality, the “m-string”, is untuned — SLACK. To a large degree, the persons who have been entrusted with authority to govern, are the architects of the social-political malaise in which we find ourselves today. We have somewhat been out of harmony with the declaration of our constitution, “That this nation is founded on the belief in the supremacy of God and the freedom….and dignity of man.”

That being so, those whom we elected to office should be mature and responsible to ensure that they conduct themselves in ways which are recognised to be in harmony with that sacred declaration of the people whom they have undertaken to serve.

Today in SVG, the attitude of arrogance is almost palpable, and it is obvious that it has been for some time now, impeding our progress. I must use this opportunity to remind out intelligentsia, the educated ones, the persons who have the capacity to think clearly, to use your resourcefulness to influence the direction we are headed.

For example, the case of Marcus De Freitas, where a High Court order, is perceived as being treated with disdain. Because of this exhibition of seemingly blatant disregard for the authority of the court, does there not now exist the real threat of the erosion of respect for the OECS court, in the minds of the citizens in SVG?

One wonders how those eminent minds, whose present life mission is to dispense justice, cannot find a way to influence our government to accept the ruling of the court. The continued lack of compliance with this order will soon prompt an openly ventilated question, “What has contaminated the cisterns of justice in the OECS?” Another saddening element has been the high incidence of cases of dishonesty in the public service, involving persons in senior positions of administration, and the perception is that these cases are not justly dealt with, because the perpetrators may be are considered to be party faithfuls. This phenomenon has devastated the Ministry of Agriculture at a time when

banana farmers were driven into impoverishment by the recklessness and incompetence of government in dealing with their responsibility of Pest and Disease Control in the industry. As a direct result of that, farmers have lost tens of millions of dollars! If the cisterns of justice are contaminated, how can redress be effected?

With feeble hope, Vincentians still sentimentally treasure their motto ‘Peace and Justice’, but with justice being so effectively eroded, who will guarantee the peace?

Le Roy Providence 10/10/14

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 57.

V

58. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Resilience project launched

digit losses to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

Climate change now ensured that countries like St Vincent and the Grenadines were extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, and according to Gonsalves, changes in the way we look at disasters will have to be implemented.

H.E Baushuan Ger, Ambassador of Republic of China on Taiwan, explained that his country’s vulnerability and own experience in Senator Camillo Gonsalves, dealing with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, spoke to increased vulnerability devastative to which the country is exposed. effects associated with natural

by DAYLE DA SILVA disasters, have impressed the THIS COUNTRY IS one of the most vulnerable countries in the importance of disaster reduction. world to natural disasters and, Ambassador over the last decade, has Ger recognised suffered more damage as a that this was a result of these disasters than in new area where the previous 40 years. his government This startling fact was and people will be revealed at the launch of the able to assist, and Pan-American Development asserted, “We are Foundation’s (PADF) ‘Resilience Livelihoods’ project very proud to be a part of this project on Tuesday. to assist in the Through the project, the resilience project.

PADF will train youth in the It is another effort area of risk reduction associated with climate change for Taiwan to enforce its ability and natural disasters, as well to return to as provide them with normal following opportunities to make their disasters,” he communities more resilient. continued.

It is being implemented in Howie Prince, St Vincent and the Grenadines at a cost of US$300,000, and is the Director of the National being facilitated through the Emergency Embassy of the Republic of Management China on Taiwan.

Organisation The project is expected to (NEMO), said that focus in three communities, a year does not go Georgetown, Bequia and the by when they are Cumberland Valley. not called out to According to Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Foreign respond to a disaster in some Affairs, this country has been section of the historically vulnerable, however that vulnerability was country.

And because the now increasing.

In the last four years alone, country was so prone to hazards, this country has experienced it has become annual disasters, all of which have brought with them double difficult to look at

the process of building resilience because they were so often responding.

“But we have to look at what we can do, while we are rebuilding, to build the resilience of our people and

facilities,” Prince said, and pointed to the need for “a mind-set and a change in the culture and the thinking of our people to the way they do business,.” If the effort is to be successful.

H.E Baushuan Ger, Taiwan’s Ambassador to SVG, registered his country’s pleasure to assist in a new area of endeavour.

Th Management The M t an and d Staf St Staff ffff

of

FFred red e &J. Co Dare D Co. Ltd. Co. Ltdd.

Lt d Ta Take T aake ke th ke tthis thi his is opport oppo opp op opportunity ppo por ortu ort rttu tuuni unnit nity nity tyy to co con congratulate onng ngr gr grraaatu tul tuula laaate te the thhe Go G Gov Gove Government ove ver vernm veern ernm nm ment men me ent nt & Pe P People eeo eop opl oplele off St St. Vi St. VVincent iinc innce ncen ent nt and Grenadines wish them and the thhe Gre Grena G Gr ren ena naadi adin diine nes es and and wi ish is sh th the hem em a

Happy H Hap Ha app appy py 35th 35t 5th th Independence Innde nde dep eppeen ende ndeen ence nce

May M ay we we continue contin nue to to build a bet b better tt nation!! tter

Best Bes Be est st Deals, Dea eals ls, s, Best Bes Be esst Prices Price ces es at at Fred Fre Fr red ed J.. D Dare are re & Co Lt Ltd Ltd. td.. sto ingst Kingstown Ki K ow wn n 4564566-11125 / 456-1127 6-11127 784 456-1125 84 66TTel: el: 78 84 45 45 456-23356 6FFax: axx:: 456-2356 45 6-2 -2

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 59.

60. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 61.

SStSt.t. Vinc ViVincent incenntt ElElectricity lectctrriicittyy SServices erviccees LiLimited erv imiiteted

Salutes Sal Sa S alalutlulutes luteteses ththeheh N Nat Nati Nation tioion onn

35 3 5

VINLEC L

oonn iits ttss iveersary th th Anniversary Anniv of of Independence Independence

VINLEC- WE POWER YOUR WORLD

s 0AUL S !VE "OX +INGSTOWN s 4EL s &AX s %MAIL VINLEC VINLEC COM s WEBSITE WWW VINLEC COM

62. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 63.

64. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 65.

V Appointing a D.P.P. in St. Vincent 66. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views Cont’d

and the Grenadines Continued from Page 8.

Always, justice must not only be done but must be manifestly seen to be done!”

On another dimension, Dr. Gonsalves must be complimented on the stand he took in the past on the appointment of judges that allegedly carried political baggage.

In 1996, Dr. Gonsalves launched a scathing attack on Mr. Brian Alleyne, now a judge of The Appeal Court, who, he said had been ‘searching for a judgeship in the OECS to lay his weary political head’. ‘Unity’, Dr. Gonsalves’ political mouth-piece at the time, noted that it “does not doubt Alleyne’s technical skills as a lawyer or a potential judge. But the political closeness between Alleyne and the N.D.P. makes him unacceptable for judicial service here in S.V.G. for the foreseeable future”.

In fine, Dr. Gonsalves declared that “the simple fact is that Alleyne has been so closely aligned to James Mitchell’s N.D.P. and their companion C.D.U, makes him unsuitable as an impartial arbitrator of fact and law in S.V.G…” For good measure, the Prime Minister added gratuitously and disarmingly “Not even his {Alleyne’s} charming Vincentian wife would make S.V.G. a welcoming place for him as a judge”.

Why, then, does Dr.

Gonsalves so strongly recommend and defend the appointment to the post of Acting D.P.P to a U.L.P wheelhorse who is thereby empowered to influence events by politically inspired decision far more than can a judge in one whose appointment Dr. Gonsalves had been so overweeningly circumspect.

In all the circumstances, the appointment of Colin Williams as acting D.P.P. of S.V.G. represents not just a slap in the face of our struggling, emergent democracy, but boldly tempts fate with a recipe for possible disaster!

In our social affairs, the office of the D.P.P is serious business. The appointment should never be based on emotion or sentiment, or some romantic, democratic notion of giving everyone a fair chance at the job.

Beforehand, the candidate should satisfy all requirements beyond reasonable doubt, and not on the balance of probabilities. Ideally, there is no room for apprenticeship or probation.

According to these presents, the Legal and Judicial Service Commission should be invited to re-think and review its decision. And the remodeled Constitutions should include a provision for public hearings in the

Skarpyon’s Miss Windward Independence on tonight Continued from Page 12.

Ebenezer Theodore Joshua; Chantel Johnson, Joseph Chatoyer, Leanza Johnson, Fannie Greigg; and Jolantha Toney, who will represent Robert Milton Cato.

The audience could expect to be ‘edutained’ through four judging segments. In place of Swimwear, there will be Shorts Wear, a segment which ‘Skarpyon’, who also serves as the show’s producer, feels will better put the ladies at ease.

There will also be Talent, Cultural Wear and Interview segments. An introduction segment will not be judged.

These (segments) will all be judged, but at the beginning of the event, there will be an unjudged Introduction by each contestant. Along with Skarpyon, a number of guest artistes will perform.

In addition to the thrill of the parade by the ladies, the event will also be used to launch ‘Skarpyon’s latest CD entitled, ‘One on One’, a special compilation of his songs to mark his 25th Anniversary.

Plans are also afoot to host a “chain of events suitable to capture the delight of supporters” in a number of communities, to commemorate his Silver Anniversary.

future appointment for the post of D.P.P., with notes and transcripts submitted to assist the deliberations of the body that makes the final selection.”

In view of the current imbroglio centered around the office of the D.P.P, the question is begged as to whether the appointment was justified or whether the tone of caveats of my article was prophetic.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 67.

Congratulations to our Nation on its th Anniversary of Independence

35

Compliments: BEQUIA OFFICE: P.O. Box #124 Port Elizabeth, Bequia, St.Vincent Tel/Fax# 1-784-457-3938

ST.VINCENT OFFICE: Corner of Dartmouth & Young Street Building #2 Calliaqua, St.Vincent Tel# 1-784-532-8913

Email:hutchcon@vincysurf.com

BUILDING AND CIVIL WORKS CONTRACTORS:

SAP

SHIPPING AGENCY

Liberty Lib berty Properties Pro Properties

‘For Reliable & Efficient Service’

Wishes St. Vincent and the Grenadines aHappy 35th year of Independence Located: Sharpe Street, P.O. Box 1051, Kingstown Tel/Fax: (784) 457-1505 Mobile: (784) 532-9315/593-6502 E-mail: sap2k468@yahoo.com

Congratulates C Con Co ong ngr gra ratu rat atutuulula ulates ulat late la lat ates at ates teses St. St t. Vi Vinc Vincent nce cen ent ntt an and ndd tth the he Gre he Gr G Grenadines reena ren enad en nadi na aaddi dine din nes ess on n th the hhe occ cca cas asion asi sio ion n of of th ttheir the hhei eiir eir ir occasion

year y ear o off IIndependence nde n dep pendence endence h t 5

3

c/o S Suite uite K038,, K Kingstown, n,, S St. t. Vinc Vincent ent ingstown, libertyproperties666@gmail.com E-mail: lib ertyproperties666@gmail.com

The Management & staff of

Congratulations Con Co ong ngr gra rat atutululla lat atitioion ons ns

JJ.G. .G.& Sons Sonns So

to th to the hee N ation ati at tio ion off St. Stt. t. Vincent Vinc Vin Vi in inc nccen cent ce eent nt and nt and nd thhe Grenadines Gre Gr G ren ena nad adi nes nes es on on the thhe th the diine din

Annive A ivversary o off Independence Indeependen p ce th Anniversary 5 3 F rom

Palm Pa alm Island alm Isslla and Resorts and Reeso eso orttss Ltd. or Ltd Lt td d.. d el: ax: 784-485-8959 Tel: T e 784-458-8824 F Fax: www .palmislandresortgrenadines.com www.palmislandresortgrenadines.com

T Tel: el: e (784) 456-9005/528-1616/493-7777 Website:www.libertyproperties.com Website:www.libertyproperties.com

355

Congratulate Con Co ong ngr ggra raatu attulula lat atete

tthe he GGovernment ove ov verrnmentt aand ve nd PPeople eople ooff St St.t. VVincent incentt aand nd tthe he GGrenadines renadines

on ththe he at att attainment tta tai ain inm nme meen ent nt off yea yye years ars aass an an independent independenntt nation. nati ation.

Upper Middle St Street, reet, Ki Kingstown ngstown

Tel: Tel: 784-456-1409 Te 784-456-14 409

Fax: Fax: 784-7-2111 784--7-2111

68. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 69.

News

„We are happy to be a bridge,‰ Lwin

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY KHIN SANDI LWIN, UNICEF’S Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, is pleased to use her office as a bridge to help the Caribbean region.

Lwin made the observation last week Friday at the handing over of a quantity of supplies destined for this nation’s children.

She noted that regional cooperation was the way to go and expressed happiness that her office could be used as a conduit for providing help to the region.

“Regional partnership is the way to go,” Lwin pointed out and added, “We are happy to be a bridge.”

The UNICEF representative vowed to continue her department’s role in assisting children.

Lwin handed over supplies worth $196,026 to the Buccament Seventh Day Adventist School, Owia Primary School, Fitz Hughes Government School, and the Chateaubelair Methodist Pre-School and Day Care.

The handing over ceremony was in recognition of support provided by UNICEF and the Government of Canada for the relief of students adversely affected by the flood of December 2013.

Raphael Robertson, Head Teacher of the Fitz Hughes Government School was pleased with the intervention. He noted that some of his students “lost everything,” and that they “had to put up with hardships.

“The gifts will go a long way in lifting the morale of the families,” Robertson cited.

Patricia Glasgow, Supervisor of the Chateaubelair Day Care and Pre School, received the gifts for her institution.

Jeaneth Pierre represented the Leeward Seventh Day Adventist School, and Latasha Nero was the recipient for Owia.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was filled with gratitude at the presentation ceremony. He noted Canada’s speedy response Raphael Robertson, Heat Teacher (left) and student of mechanism to the Fitz Hughes Government disaster relief, and School gladly accepts pointed out that donation.

some 300 children will benefit from the assistance.

The items provided included computers, printers and toners, books, cots, kits and other Early

Education resource material.

A sum of money was also used to buy uniforms for children.

SVG SV G Appliance Parts P &

Andrew’s ndrew’s d Re Refrigeration efrigera ation

Exxtends Best Wisishes to the nation on the occasion of its

35th year of Independence May G God od rrichly ichlyy bless lelesss and n protect us.

Khin Sandi Lwin, UNICEF’S Representative (3rd from right), makes presentation to teacher and students of the Buccament Seventh Day Adventists School.

Arrrno Val Viincenntt AArnos nos VVale ale St. St. VVincent Tele (784 4) 4456-6116 Telephone: (784) TTel Te eleppho hone: (7 7884) 4) 56-6116 Fax: Faax: aaxx:x 4456-6254 56-6254 54 vgaapplianceparrttts@ Email: svgapplianceparts@gmail.com Em mail: svg sv vg s@gmail.com

rnos rno Vallee,, St. Vin AArnos rrn nooss VVa Vale, St. VVincent inccen enntt Vincent Tel TTelephone: Te elArnos ephoneVale, : (7 ((784) 784) 844) 4St. 4456-5977 56-59977777 Telephone: (784) Fax Fax: Fa axx:: 4456-6254 ax 56-62456-5977 54 54 fri456-6254 idgerattion@gmail.com EEmail: mail: aandrewsrefridgeration@gmail.com nndr drrew ewsFax: ews rreeefr fr Website: www.andrewsrefridgerationsvg.com ww w.aandrreeewwwsr refrrrid vg..com Website: W ebsittteee:: wwww.andrewsrefridgerationsvg.com www. w. srefr idgerraaatttio ionsvg svvg

70. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

St. V St. St Vin Vincent inc in ncce ce ent nt & tthe he e Gre G Grenadines re re en enad n na a ad din din ne ne ess P Po ort Au ort Autho A Aut uth utho ut tthori tho hor ho ori o rriitty rit Port Authority

Upper U ppe pp p per er B Bay ay Street Street ee eet et ox 1 23 23 37, 7,, Kingstown King gssttown gst gs wn Box B 1237, Te Tel: 784-456-1830 784784 84 4--4 -4 45 56566-1 183 830 830 Tel: Fax ax: x: 784-456-2732 784 784 844--4 -4 45645 566-2 -27 -2 732 732 73 Fax: E-m Email: port.svg@vincysurf.com port..sv sv svg vg@v vg @v vinc vin vi ncysu surf.c sur .com .co E-mail: W ebs bssiit ite ite: e: ww w ww ww..sv sv vgpa. vgp vg pa..c .com .co Website: www.svgpa.com

Con Congratulations ngratu ng attul attioon ns to to the th he tulati Government People G Go over ernme nmen nt and and P eopple eop meent of of G SSt. t. Vincent V nccceent en andd the th Gre Gr reen Viiinc entt and the Grenadines enad addinees our on the on th hee celebration cellebrat cel brati br attion n of of ou ur tion ur 35th A Anniversary nniversary of Indep Independence endence

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Gambling will be a waste of time and money. In-laws or older individuals may give you a bit of a hard time this week.

Assist a relative or good friend by setting of a budget for them. Your high energy should be spent pleasing your mate.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will enjoy interacting with those who come from different backgrounds. Be precise in your communications to avoid any misunderstandings and arguments.

Take your time and try not to overload yourself. Be careful what you consume this week.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Loans will be attainable and legal matters easily taken care of. Don't be too pushy or demanding, or you may find yourself all alone. Help elders get their personal papers in order. Opportunities for travel and communication are evident.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will easily blow situations out of proportion. Try to be as mellow as possible. You won't have to look for the action. You're ready to take action and take over.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your own small business on the side sounds pretty lucrative. You may have major blowups with someone you love if you don't back down. Draw up contracts regarding your personal situation.

Reciprocate by offering helpful hints.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Don't let others bait you into arguments. Uncertainties about your home may cause tension. Responsibilities with respect to older relatives may be a burden. Stay away from social unpleasantness.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Romance will be yours if you get out and do things in large groups. Trying to deal with your mate will be unproductive and possibly hurtful. Your communication skills will bring you popularity and increased self esteem.

Underhandedness regarding legal matters or contracts must be counteracted.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You need to interact with others if you want to expand your knowledge.

Sports, physical fitness programs, exercise in general will make you feel better and show some pretty quick results.

Peers may not be on your side. You must make them stand on their own two feet regardless of how much you want to make things better for them.

ACROSS 1. Specification (abbr.)

5. Melville captain 9. Mineral spring 12. Bull, in Spain 13. “For goodness’ __!”

14. Baseball player’s topper 15. Gymnast Korbut 16. Emperor 17. Ingested 18. Big sandwich 20. “__ again!”

22. Took a chair 23. Quicksand 24. Oldfashioned anesthetic 27. Severely 30. Mauna __ 31. “Are you a man__ mouse?”

(2 wds.)

32. Diploma alternative (abbr.)

33. Page borders 36. Instigates 38. Nevada gambling town 39. Layer 40. Burglar 42. On the

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You may blow situations out of proportion when dealing with the one you love.

Unfortunately, your personal life may suffer from a lack spare time.

Moneymaking opportunities will surface.

Your need to be in a leadership position will help you surpass any rivals you might encounter.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don't hesitate to present your unique ideas. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions. Use your high energy and dynamic approach to win favors from superiors. A long discussion is in order if you wish to clear the air.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Extravagance and overindulgence are not a cure if you're feeling sorry for yourself. Problems with in-laws or relatives may be more damaging than you realize. Opportunities for financial gains through investments and games of chance are likely. Uncertain changes regarding your personal life are evident.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Secret enemies will be eager to spread rumors about you. Your suggestions for fund raising events will be well received.

You should avoid getting involved in the personal problems of colleagues. Your lack of responsibility and attention has been a key issue in your relationship.

horns of a46. Distress message 47. Alan of “M*A*S*H” 49. Rafter 50. GI’s address (abbr.)

51. Suffering sound 52. John Lennon’s widow, with 31 down 53. “__ Tin Tin” 54. Walkingthe-dog tool (hyph.)

55. Lamb mamas DOWN 1.Traffic sign 2. Water __ 3. Therefore (Lat.) 4. Unrefined 5. Cravat kin 6. Cloudy 7. Alias inits.

8. Kopell of “The Love Boat” 9. Look through trash cans 10. Top of the head 11. Copycat 19. __ none 21. Blunder

Three is a crowd Dear George,

I DID A MOST stupid thing and had a threesome involving my wife and another man. I was not up to this, but my wife requested that we do this as an anniversary gift to her.

She was in fact, asking me to return the favor she did for me a couple years ago, when we did the same thing with one of her friends. It was like she had a gun to my head.

The man she chose was a man I had suspicions of trying to be with her. After we did what we did, it caused nothing but confusion between us. She kept comparing me to this man. I am convinced, now more than ever, that she is still having involvement with this man.

How do we settle this? It seems like we are heading down a road that is leading to us going apart.

Worried Dear Worried, The decision to invite third parties into your relationship/marriage was a bad one, and was bound to have repercussions.

You and your wife have exposed your marriage to open attacks by the individuals you invited to be part of the threesomes.

Marriage is an institution that must never be taken lightly, and

the blatant disregard that you and your wife have shown to such a sacred bond, has come back to haunt you both. You have no one to blame but yourselves for the downturn your relationship has taken, and you now must face the

consequences.

Maybe there is room for salvaging whatever is left. This you need to work out with the help of a relationship counsellor.

George

Life beyond AIDS Dear George, MY HUSBAND has knowingly infected me with the AIDS virus.

He never told me that he was sick, and I found out my situation only after my annual medical. I know it is he who gave me this disease because I have never cheated on him.

When I first confronted him, he accused me of sleeping around, but later on he admitted to having numerous affairs with several young women in the Kingstown area. He admitted to over fifteen different affairs, and I am sure the list is much longer.

All I am saying is right now there are lots of women in this country who are infected. This ‘nastiness’ who calls himself my husband is the among those to be blamed for all of this.

I have accepted my fate, and the only reason I did not out his light is because I know it is just a matter of time before he returns to dust. Luckily we have no children.

This is so unfair. I don’t have much to live for now, and for me, life is over, thanks to my loving husband.

Outgoing Dear Outgoing, It is very unfortunate what has happened to you, but you should pause to consider that people with HIV are living much longer today than before.

Now that you know your status, you should make an effort to see a counsellor, so that you can get information on support groups, diet plans, medication, etc. This diagnosis does not mean the end of your life, but rather, let it serve as an awakening to a new reality that will now be the driving force to you becoming an advocate for combating this dreaded disease.

Encourage your husband to ask his sexual partners to go get themselves tested so as not to widen the spread of the disease.

George

23. NYC transit org.

24. Graceful tree 25. Suit __ tee (2 wds.)

26. Actor Rex27. Fourthyear students (abbr.)

28. Permit 29. Cloth measurements

(abbr.)

31. See 52 Across 34. “Goodness!”

35. Where December 7, 1941 lives

36. “__ Night Long” 37. “_- Birdie” (2 wds.

39. Van Cliburn’s instrument 40. Romanov sovereign 41. Pueblo

Indian 42. 6/6/44 (hyph.)

43. Cat sound 44. Fabricate 45. Old Testament prophet 48. 18th-century card game

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 71.

More than the cell phone Dear George MY WIFE has a new top of the line cell phone. When I asked her how she got it, she was tight lipped. I also inquired about how she was going to pay for it; she made it clear that was her business, and seeing that it was not me who was paying, I should not care.

I cannot believe our marriage has come to this! I always heard her saying that she wants a cell phone, but I never believed she would be so secretive about the phone, once she got it.

The situation is that my wife is not working, and I am the one who pays all of the bills. I would hate for our marriage to break up over a cell phone, but it will be hell to get me to pay if she does not level with me on this one.

Mr. Blues Dear Mr. Blues, The greater issue here is a breakdown in communication in the relationship. I am sensing that the problems in your marriage existed before the introduction of this cell phone. Rather than making the cell phone the bone of contention, try to dig deeper and see if you can unearth the buried issues that have helped to stifle the air in your marriage, making it unable to breathe. Take the lead and invite your wife to talk about what is really bothering her, and show her that you are willing to take a critical look at your own actions and inactions, in order to get things back on track.

That cell phone is symptomatic of a bigger problem, and you need to redirect your attention and not get confused by the smoke screen.

George

V The ABC of Insurance 72. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

broadly speaking, there are two main and/or business risks, to help you kinds of insurance: decide what to insure, and can help Life insurance -protects you and your family from the financial consequences of sickness and injury.

Essentially, life insurance pays an insurance benefit when the person who is insured dies; General insurance- Many of us may already have some kind of general insurance, particularly if we own a car.

General insurance provides protection for the loss of your assets. This includes things like your home and its contents, your car, and even travel insurance.

What is an Insurance Policy?

An insurance policy is a legal agreement between an individual or business and an insurance company,

by Mintrue Rose-Providence which stipulates what is being Manager, Insurance & Pensions insured.

Financial Services Authority The insurance policy sets out exactly: * what is being insured and the risk Introduction being insured against (terms and conditions) LIFE IS FULL OF risks- some are * any exclusions preventable or can at least be minimized, * how much the policy will cost you some are avoidable, and some are (premium) completely unforeseeable. But * how much the insurer will pay if unexpected risks can really set you back. you make a claim.

That is where insurance comes in.

Insurance is appropriate when you want to protect against a significant monetary Insurance premiums loss.

When you buy an insurance policy, What is insurance? you pay a premium. This joins the premiums of many other policyholders Insurance is a risk transfer in a large pool of funds which the mechanism; it is used to protect insurer then invests to increase the against a possible unwanted outcome amount of money held. With any luck, in life and in business. Insurance helps you will never need to draw on that to protect people and the things we pool. But if you happen to be one of the value, such as our homes, our cars and unlucky ones affected by an other valuables, from the financial unexpected event, perhaps through impact of risks, big and small- from severe weather or accident, that pool of fire, flood, earthquake, to theft, car funds can be used to help you up to the accidents and travel mishaps. limit you have selected in your policy.

Insurance cannot prevent something The insurer is in business to make a from going wrong, but it can help profit, and will be hoping that the total protect you and your assets from the premiums it receives in any one year, financial risk if something does together with any money it can make happen. Insurance can help us through investments, will exceed the financially recover if a risk should total claims it has to pay out. damage the things we value.

How insurance works?

Claims

Once you have entered into an insurance contract and paid your premium, you are entitled to compensation from the insurance company for any damage or loss suffered. The extent of compensation will depend on the type of insurance and the terms of the policy.

If something unexpected happens to property you have insured, you can lodge a claim with the insurer. If you have bought the right cover in your policy, the insurer will assist you through rebuilding or repairing your property, replacing your possessions or providing other compensation.

Remember, you can only claim on your insurance if the thing that goes wrong is covered in your insurance policy.

How can you get Insurance?

You can buy insurance directly from a licensed insurer or an Different Types of Insurance insurance broker. Insurance brokers are normally not employed by a Insurance comes in many forms and particular insurer, but act on behalf of types, depending on the risks to be their clients, and provide advice in the covered. For example, there is liability, interests of their clients. A broker will life, health, auto or property help you identify your individual insurance, and much more. However, When things go wrong, it can be expensive; and so, for many of these eventualities, insurance is there to take the financial risk on our behalf.

Insurance spreads the cost of risk among a large group of people who share similar risks.

A business that provides insurance coverage, agrees to take on risks on behalf of a company or individual, in exchange for a fee. It does this by providing the business or individual concerned with an insurance contract, sometimes called a ‘policy’, for which it charges a “premium”.

This policy will cover a person or business for many of the costs they have to meet as a result of a risk occurring, and provides the policyholder with some security, should the worst happen.

you find the most appropriate cover for your own circumstances.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 73.

Independence Feature Cont’d

Independence Day 2014: Believe in SVG

INDEPENDENCE MESSAGE by BY DR. THE HON. RALPH E. GONSALVES PRIME MINISTER OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

the scriptural truth that “man and woman cannot live by bread alone”. The spirit of love for one another and our nation under God’s suzerainty is essential for our life and living.

Continued from Page 7.

We have taken credible steps in both battles, in conjunction with regional and international partners. But much more needs to be done.

My government will shortly be announcing further dramatic and even more focussed measures in this regard.

Everyone has to be engaged in the campaign against Chik-V and Ebola. We are confident that the Chik-V can be defeated, and the threat of Ebola be overcome.

REFLECTIONS

Every Independence Day, we must begin our reflections, historically, from at least 1763 when Britain assumed colonial over-lordship of St. Vincent and the Grenadines consequent upon the Treaty of Paris and the general carve-up of the Eastern Caribbean between the British and the French. Through our history of 216 years of almost unbroken British colonial domination between 1763 and 1979, LIFE AND LIVING our people have endured hardship and oppression, Fellow citizens and native genocide and residents, independence, slavery, indentureship like life and living, is not and socio-economic only about material, marginalisation, race bread-and-butter and class discrimination. conditions, fundamental Through it all, we have as they are. We know struggled for freedom,

justice, and democracy, to emerge as a modern, sophisticated, independent nation-state taking its rightful place in the community of nations, internationally.

Still, there are many historical wrongs to be righted. We are, accordingly in the forefront of the vast regional campaign for reparations against the former colonial powers on account of the awful legacy currently of native genocide and slavery perpetuated against our forbears.

BE GRATEFUL

At this time, we remember our failures and setbacks, our triumphs and advances, our limitations and possibilities, in our march for a better life in justice, freedom, democracy, and independence. We remember and praise the valiant efforts of our forbears and their leaders. We remember with profound gratitude

the heroic leadership of our National Hero, the Right Excellent Joseph Chatoyer, Chief of the Garifuna People, and the extraordinary contributions of other exceptional leaders, including especially, George Augustus Mc

Intosh, Ebenezer Theodore Joshua, Robert Milton Cato, and J.P. Eustace, all of blessed memory.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE

As we celebrate our Independence Day 2014, let us believe in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its future. Let’s love one another.

Thirty-five years point Happy Independence to a growing maturity.

2014!

74. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Extends congratulations and best wishes to the people ofSt. Vincent and the Grenadines on their

35

th

METROCINT GENERAL INSURANCE CO. LTD. St. George’s Place, P.O. Box 692, Kingstown, St. Vincent. Tel: (784) 456-1821 Fax: (784) 457-2821 Email: metrocint@vincysurf.com Website:www.metrocintsvg.com

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 75.

Police/Sion Hill triumphant in matches Off spinners Henny Charles, 3/8, and Cadwick Frederick, 2/19, were the RSVG Police and Sion Hill had much to defendants whose searching questions savour after chalking up victories last left the lawmen fidgeting and Sunday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, squirming. in the Masters Cricket tournament.

Henny Penny Masters were RSVG Police defeated Henny Penny restricted to 107/8.

Masters by 13 runs, while Sion Hill Former SVG medium pacer, Elvis had a comprehensive 67-run win over Browne 3/9, and former Windwards Carlos James North Leeward Masters. legspinner, Sammy Francis 2/25, led In the day’s first fixture, RSVG the Police bowling, after their Police batted first and reached 120/8 opponents had recovered from 26/4. in their allotment of 20 overs.

Browne, who battled the steamy They looked to be in a commanding conditions manfully, bowled two of his position after captain, Trevor Bailey, victims with deliveries of full length, (23 with four fours) and Gosnel Cupid while Francis, who was at the (30 - including 3 fours and one six)) receiving end of the batsmen’s had put on 53 for the first wicket in aggression, was struck for three fours six overs. But the lawmen then caved and one six. in, under serious cross examination, to In the afternoon match, Sion Hill slip to 66/4. It was only a late flurry by Masters, behind half centuries from Jeffrey Laborde (25) that sent the jury Bill Edwards (76) and Keon Jack (55), back into deliberation. easily disposed of their opponents, Stories by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Joe Horne took 4 for 17 for Sion Hill.

Bill Edwards pulls to the leg side during his 76 for Sion Hill.

despite looking a few bowlers short.

SCORES: Sion Hill Masters 165/4 (20 overs), Carlos James North Leeward 98/9 (20 overs).

Winning the toss and batting first, Sion Hill got off to the worst of starts when opener Michael Duncan (0) was trapped LBW by the first ball of the innings, sent down by Reginald Jeffrey (1/20).

Edwards joined Jack, and the pair added 128 for the second wicket before Jack went. He struck five fours and two sixes. Edwards, who added 33 with Syl Vanloo (14*), was caught on the long on boundary in the final over.

Police captain Trevor Bailey being beaten by the heat.

He struck eight fours and one six.

Set to score at just over eight runs an over, North Leeward always looked to be South West of their target and were blown off course by the loss of regular wickets and the inability to take advantage of the tame Sion Hill bowling.

David Ellis (35) broadcasted his intention, but no other batsman picked up the signal, with Joe Horne (4/17) being the chief matador.

The competition will continue next weekend.

Stowe gets Interpol /FIFA training ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ Dominic Stowe is now back home, set to put together plans to begin his efforts to sanitise the game of soccer.

Stowe was among participants from the region who attended the first-ever Interpol/FIFA training course specifically for Single Point of Contacts (SPOC) in CONCACAF, at CONCACAF’s Miami headquarters.

A release issued after the course, said that representatives from Interpol and FIFA conducted the intensive four-day workshop for 11 SPOCs from each of CONCACAF’s three regions, among them the first three female participants.

According to the release, the course was developed to prepare fully persons tasked with establishing the facts in relation to reports or suspicions of match fixing/match manipulation within national associations and confederations.

The course, according to the release, is purposed to educate SPOCs on how to plan and conduct an appropriate inquiry, as well as present results to a disciplinary body.

It added that the course is a key element in an overall strategy to combat increasing reports of match manipulation. This way, coordinated steps can be implemented for an effective.

SPOCs will liaise with the CONCACAF Sports Integrity Department regarding all integrity issues, in particular to receive and exchange general information relative to current threats, and to inform CONCACAF about pending procedures, the

Dominic Stowe (with certificate) at SPOC Interpol/FIFA training. release said.

Among the main responsibilities of the SPOCS are: conducting inquiries and/or investigations as a “fact finder” for or in close cooperation with the judicial body of his/her Member Association; liaising with the relevant national authorities, such as police and prosecuting authorities by submitting and exchanging and coordinating investigations); linking with FIFA Security in regard to integrity issues; initiating, establishing and maintaining integrity initiatives and education/prevention programs to combat match manipulation within Member Associations in coordination with CONCACAF; coordinating with the CONCACAF Integrity Department so that the Confederation’s education/prevention programs are implemented within Member Associations.

Dr. Laila Mintas, CONCACAF Director of Sports Integrity, informed the participants that their role was very important in the fight to cleanse the sport.

“Appointing the SPOCs was a first very essential step in order to build an efficient network within CONCACAF.” he stated.

“Training these people for their important task is the next significant step in our fight against match manipulations in our region.” Having received this special tailored training, our SPOCs are prepared for their new positions,” he added.

The release said that as an additional component of CONCACAF’s efforts to broaden its Embrace Diversity campaign, these qualified individuals will help coordinate the monitoring and elimination of any racist or discriminatory behaviour during matches. They will also have the responsibility of establishing diversity initiatives.

The course held in CONCACAF was the second conducted by Interpol/FIFA worldwide. UEFA hosted the inaugural one in April of this year.

V

76. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Getting over the freeze

BY PRESS TIME, this could be the most convenient phras, given the caution needed to deal with a spate of unfolding events.

The aborted Indian tour continues to stir reactions.

By press time includes the time the individual reads the production. That will vary depending on one’s accessibility to the publication.

Persons may be in places where the information has been disclosed on obscure matters. There is also the benefit of hindsight which in this scenario will have a palpable echo.

This showdown has rekindled aspects of the integration process which folded over 50 years ago.

The inter-island rivalry seems to be playing out once more, this time with an international backdrop. The period of thawing out from the accumulation of ice that has taken over the West Indies Cricket Board, West Indies Players Association, and the players will take time.

The South African tour and the World Cup tournament will be rehashed. There is a trend that the WICB may have played into the hands of the cricketers by their approach.

The players have incurred the wrath of many a West Indian cricket supporter who would have been satisfied with a spate of consistent performances on the field of play. One would think that the players will not be so poor that they link their returns on the pitch to the financial remuneration.

Somewhere, good sense did not prevail, and with the frequency with which breaches of trust have taken place at the West Indies Cricket Board level, it is likely that the episode will continue.

Any involvement by political forces in the running of cricket is tantamount to interference.

But regional governments have a direct influence on the state of affairs especially in their backyard.

They provide the infrastructure and conditions to facilitate the game’s progress.

Administrators reap the benefits and perhaps are emboldened into believing that they are infallible.

West Indies cricket has taken a dramatic new course. The team which served as a symbol of regional pride, tethers as a shadow of that legacy.

Why is it that we cannot do things in such a way that it avoids the recriminations?

There is plenty at stake, including the loss of revenue which will have an impact on our efforts to stabilise the economies of these small states. If we allow further fragmentation, we will reap the whirlwind of social upheaval.

Lessons of discipline which we are at pains to try to instil into our children, will spill over into a dangerous manifestation in our society.

Sports have the effect of bringing harmony between those who are engaged in it.

The battle lines of competitiveness are an inevitable part of life. How we cope with the realities of our existence is a test of our ability to follow some natural factors of our environment.

Each of us has a duty to contribute to the enhancement of humanity. The pattern of meeting each other in a collision course is not going to provide us with any platform for meaningful advancement.

What emerges from this situation will be of interest to many.

The sad fact is that whatever the outcome, there is little consolation that we will see an end to this dispute in any time soon.

Burgin strengthening his community HARRINGTON BURGIN, one of the sporting icons of the interior community of Belair, is giving back to the community in the area of sports development.

Burgin, who holds a Level 1 football coach certificate, DLicence, and also possesses some knowledge in physiotherapy, and is a fitness trainer, has been conducting a sports programme for youths in Belair for the last 18 years, taking a break only once — in 1988.

“I chose to conduct this programme because of the community and the youths. There is nothing else happening for them… . I look at it in terms of keeping a lot of them off the streets,” Burgin told THE VINCENTIAN in a recent interview.

In addition to imparting the skills of football (control, passing, kicking), Burgin’s programme also focuses on discipline, and there is a built-in demand that participants be disciplined, “not only in their approach to the sport but also about how they deal with their academics,” Burgin said, adding, “There must be a balance between sports and education.”

The effort is a labour of love.

Burgin confirmed that there is no

source of funding for the programme, though he has received equipment from the SVG Football Federation. Most of the equipment, though, has been provided by the Hulumbie family from Canada.

All in all, the tireless Burgin is satisfied with the progress so far, noting that, “since the programme started, Some of the youngsters involved in the there has been football coaching programme, including approximately six kids Kendra Findlay (left back row) and Orshell who have moved on to Burgin (3rd from left back row). different teams taking part in local club programme is championships, and some of them helping me to be a have migrated and still play better player while football.” enjoying the THE VINCENTIAN spoke with activities set out two youngsters involved in the by the coach.” programme. Orshell Burgin, 15 Burgin has no years, attends the Emmanuel intention of Mespo Secondary School. He said slowing down, and “the programme is nice and as he looks to the encourages me to play football future, he is and helps me to live my dream to encouraged by the Harrington play football for Barcelona.”

Burgin support he has Kendra Findlay, a 10-year-old received from female from the Belair parents in the community.

Government School, said she chose football because, “it is my I.B.A.ALLEN favorite sports, and the

Coach Butler confident ahead of tournament THIS COUNTRY’S national senior cricket team is into final preparation for the Senior Windward Islands Cricket Tournament, and coach Deighton Butler is confident they will retain their title.

“Generally, the team is very balanced,” said Butler.

While the tem will miss young, exciting batsman Sunil Ambris, who is presently touring Sri Lanka with WI A team, Butler expects that “the batting will be led by the experienced trio of Romel Currency, Miles Bascombe and Donwell Hector.”

The coach also pointed to Gidron Pope, “who is showing great form,” and the consistent Marvin Small, as two who will be expected to make their contribution.

The experienced Lindon James, captain, will be relied on to bring balance and discipline to the squad.

Butler admitted to the SVG bowling attack being traditionally the stronger arm of the team.

And while experienced left arm seamer Kenroy Peters will be missing from the team, the coach points to the spin department, comprising the trio of Alston Bobb, Kenneth Dembar and Keiron Cottoy, as being a threat.

The pace will be provided by the able trio of: Dawnley Grant, who has impressed in the nets; Delorn Johnson, who is rearing to go after Deighton Butler, head coach of the SVG recovery from a foot senior cricket team, is injury; and Keswrick Williams, fresh from his confident his team can retain the title. campaign in the

Barbados Elite Division in which in represents UWI. “The team has been gelling well, and we are looking for some quality performances from Team SVG, which will give us that opportunity to retain the title,” Butler conjectured.

The team comprised Lindon James (Captain), Romel Currency, Miles Bascombe, Gidron Pope, Donwell Hector, Marvin Small, Alston Bobb, Rodney Lawrence, Keron Cottoy, Kesrick Williams, Kenneth Dembar, Delorn Johnson, Dawnley Grant. The reserves are Desron Maloney, Asif Hooper, Casmond Walters and Romario Bibby.

The tournament, a 2day format, is hosted in St. Lucia from the 30th October to 5th November 2014.

I.B.A.ALLEN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 77.

78. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2014. 79.

Classifieds

F O R

A.I. REAL ESTATE Pembroke 6,341 sq.ft @ $15.00 p.s.f. - $95,115.00 Golden Vale 14,991 sq.ft @ $15.00 p.s.f.

- BB804

- $224,865.00

- BB480

Campden Park 5 bedrm property on 5,099 sq.ft. - $620,000.00 - H544

S A L E

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 24, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.43

Campden Park 3 bedrm Property on 5,177 sq.ft.

www.thevincentian.com

- $170,000.00 - H537

Other listings are available Phone: 457-2087 Fax: 457-1382 Toll Free (USA): 866-978-0951 718-732-0545 Email: donp@vincysurf.com Website: www.aisvg.com

EC$1.50

AMBUSHED!!

Desborne was the fourth of five children and the one, Norma said, UP TO PRESS TIME, no one was charged about whom she was the most in connection with the death of 28-year- concerned. old Desborne Yearwood, a labourer of She described him as a hard Calder and father of two. worker, saying that he will be missed.

Yearwood was killed after being And while she said people may have struck on the head with a blunt object their own perceptions about her son’s on Monday, October 20 around 5:40 personality, she said that she knew pm, police said. her son was not a troublemaker, and Relatives of the deceased man told that he was good to her.

THE VINCENTIAN that he was Silborne, the brother of the ambushed by the assailant(s) as he deceased, said that he was making his made his way from a path a short way home from work when he heard distance from where he lived, on to the the tragic news. main road.

“I couldn’t believe, when me reach Loved ones say that the death of Mespo, when me see Des, dead,” he Desborne has surprised them all.

Mom, Norma, said that she was only able to cope through the goodness of God’s mercy and grace.

“This is not God’s will because somebody else hurry my son life out.

This is man’s will not God’s,” the grieving mother told THE VINCENTIAN. The 59-year-old said that the death of her son had been difficult to deal with, particularly as she has to deal with a number of medical complications, including heart problems, diabetes and hypertension.

“To tell you the truth, if police wasn’t there and I had a gun, I would ah kill dat boy,” Norma Yearwood said.

“Ah old and ah sick, dem would ah jus’ tek me an’ do me wha dem want,” she continued.

Yearwood said that she was baffled as to what would have led to her son’s sudden demise.

She did, however, relate a story to THE VINCENTIAN, a story (not published) she heard, which she Norma Yearwood, mother of the purported could shed some light on the deceased, claims her son’s death cause of her son’s death. was man’s will, not God’s.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

said.

He too, described his brother as a good person.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be finalised.

Norma explained that, while the post mortem was completed on Tuesday, she was expected to collect the results and her son’s death certificate yesterday, before going ahead with plans for his burial.

The number of homicides for the year now stands at 30, according to Police, following the shooting death of Anika Stowe in Green Hill, which also occurred on Monday.

Desborne Yearwood became, according to the police, homicide number 29 for the year.

The pathway on to the main road where Desborne is said to have been ‘ambushed’.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.