THE VINCENTIAN PDF- 25-09-20

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER

25, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.29

$12M for tablets Page 4

Simone Keizer-Beache, Chief Medical Officer, spoke of rolling out a plan to combat the spread of Dengue Fever that amounts to in excess of $200,000.00.

JUST WHEN THE THOUGHT was that it couldn’t get any worse than the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, there was a turn for the worst.

An old adversary, Dengue Fever, reappeared to take two lives and put additional stress on an already overworked, some say, undersupported health care system.

The Ministry of Health, in a Press Release dated September 21, 2020, disclosed that, “The Surveillance Committee of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment is currently investigating four

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deaths over the last three weeks, in persons who presented with symptoms suggestive of Dengue Fever, and quickly deteriorated, some with features of acute kidney failure.

“One elderly female was confirmed on laboratory diagnosis to have had Dengue Fever. One young male was negative for Dengue Fever, Zika and COVID-19. Another young male died before the Dengue test could be completed. The fourth person was negative for COVID-19, but some of their other results including Dengue, are still outstanding.”

That Release also

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Shortage of cannabis Page 24

In the midst of the coronavirus causing crisis, this country now has to grapple with increasing incidence of the mosquito-borne Dengue Fever. declared that, “…the Dengue Fever Outbreak first noted in July 2020 continues with a total of 306 laboratory confirmed cases of Dengue Fever, from January 1, 2020 to September 11, 2020.”

New figures

However, during a press conference on Tuesday, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Simone KeizerBeache put much of this to spend, when she confirmed that as of Monday 23rd September, this country had recorded two deaths and 374 “laboratory” cases of Dengue Fever.

The dead, according to the CMO, were one middle age female and one 9-year-old male, both from the Calliaqua Fogging, district. which some This figure observers say (364) marked a has not been significant properly increase of 179 executed, is cases over the expected to 185 that were be part of the declared by response Epidemiologist plan.

Tamara Bobb as

of September 3, a mere 20 days prior. It also surpasses the 240 laboratory cases recorded in 2014 the year of the last major breakout.

Of those 185 confirmed cases, 45% were listed as being persons between the ages of 0 — 5 years. As for the recent figure of 364 confirmed laboratory cases, the age group 0-15 years accounted for 53 percent of those cases.

And, according to the release of September 23, while the mosquito borne disease was affecting all health districts, “Kingstown, Georgetown and Pembroke Health Districts accounted for 65.9% of the confirmed cases.”

At Tuesday’s press conference, it was disclosed that the Kingstown district accounted for 82 cases, Georgetown 63 and Pembroke, which covers the area from Campden Park to Barrouallie, 107.

Ongoing response by Health Officials And as far as hospitalization arising out of the dengue outbreak is concerned, the Ministry of Health said in its Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Dynamic Sounds gifts SMSS with P.A. System

Vaughn Mills of Dynamic Sounds giving insight into what is included in the system and what can be expected of it.

by GLORIAH… THE ST. MARTIN’S SECONDARY SCHOOL (SMSS) is reveling in a

recent act of kindness bestowed on it.

Last Tuesday, September 14, Mr. Vaughn Mills - owner and operator of Dynamic Sounds, handed over a brand new public address system to the school.

Mills, a SMSS alumnus, a graduate of the Class of 1988, handed over the equipment to Principal Yohance Gibson, in the company of representatives of the Local Chapter of the St. Martin’s Past Student Association (SAMPASA, school prefects and staff members of Dynamic Sounds.

Prior to the handing over, President of SAMPASA SVG Mr. Ronnie Daniel gave a

snapshot of the endeavour. “When we sort of whispered to Vaughn, he was in a difficult position… his Dad, Mr. Cedric Mills, had passed and he had to put it in the background.

This ceremony was delayed, but nonetheless, we are here and we are thankful.”

Daniel went on to reminisce about the days when the then Dynamic Guys, from which the Dynamic Sounds evolved, provided music for the SMSS fairs that made them the biggest (fairs) in Kingstown.

This event, he suggested, was another demonstration of giving.

In handing over the equipment, Mills described it as a RCF Power Speaker System.

He said further, “There is also a mixer from where the volume and tonal quality of the sound is controlled. This will help the school to communicate and to get your word across during the functions of the school.”

The system also came with microphones and accompanying stands.

Principal Gibson thanked Mills for his contribution, saying, “Gifts like these build the extracurricular curriculum; in that we have concerts where we are able to have opportunities for our children to bond, and where the whole community works in camaraderie.”

The Dynamic Sounds personnel then proceeded

Dynamic Sounds personnel take Principal Gibson and school prefects through a demonstration of the operating procedure for the system. to do a demonstration of the operating procedure of the system for the benefit of the Principal, staff and Class Prefects.

The gift is quite timely as the school hopes to

have an innovative activity for this year’s Independence celebrations and this time, all voices will be heard.

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 3.

News 3 Dengue Fever alert: Gov’t asleep at the wheel

THE TWO DEATHS ATTRIBUTED to dengue fever here have not escaped the attention of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).

In a statement released on Monday, the NDP not only expressed condolences to the

families who lost loved ones to the disease, but it took umbrage with the Government, in particular the Minister of Health Luke Browne, for being “asleep at the wheel while the number of dengue fever cases skyrocket out of control -

with the number almost doubling from July to August.”

As per the statement, the NDP spokesman on Health and Member of Parliament for West Kingstown Daniel Cummings called on the government “to act

DENGUE OUTBREAK: Two deaths appeals to the public to reduce their exposure to the mosquito which causes September 21 release, it “… will dengue by: reducing the breeding of utilize all available beds in the public the mosquito by discarding old system, including some of those at the containers and ensuring that water Argyle Isolation Facility. One section collecting receptacles are covered; of this facility which is designed for reducing garbage/rubbish and the management of persons with overgrown bushes; wearing light infectious diseases, will be used for coloured clothes with long pants and patients with suspected Dengue Fever sleeves; using insect repellent; opening who require rehydration and homes to allow effectiveness of observation. Another section will be fogging. reserved to accommodate any COVIDThere has also been a call by the 19 patients who may present in the Ministry of Health for students to be future.” allowed to wear long sleeve shirts and In addition, the CMO assured that long pants as a pre-cautionary “we will continue increasing our measure, since it is known that the response, and we have our Dengue dengue-causing mosquito bites mainly response plan. Estimates for the cost in the daylight hours. of this plan in terms of health The Ministry of Health advised that promotion the most important Dengue Fever is described mostly “as component, we have estimates to a mild febrile (feverish) illness lasting spend another $29,000 in the next few five to seven days, requiring only days.” regular doses of acetaminophen In relation to vector control for the (paracetamol) and oral fluids as mosquito borne disease, the CMO said treatment.” that $210,000 will be spent in an effort However, it added, “…Dengue Fever to decrease the number of mosquitoes. can sometimes result in serious illness Additionally, the ministry would with pain behind the eyes, severe employ 10 doctors and 6 nurses to give vomiting, abnormal bleeding and added attention to the Dengue dizziness. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever situation. and Acute Renal Failure are Health officials, in the face of the complications of Dengue Fever and new outbreak and rapid increase in can lead to death.” confirmed cases, have stepped up their Continued from Front Page.

urgently to control the spread of Dengue Fever which is wreaking havoc in the country,” describing the situation as a “growing national medical emergency.”

Cummings reminded that “Dengue Fever is a preventable disease and its spread can be reduced significantly by controlling the mosquitoes that spread it. However, the ULP has been mismanaging the fogging programme which must be done regularly, at specific times, to disrupt the

mosquito’s breeding cycle.”

Cummings continued by highlighting what he said was a practice in the Public Health System of charging families for Dengue Fever testing, an allegation that this publication was unable to verify up to press time.

Luke Browne, Minister of Health, has not escaped the wrath of the NDP response to the Dengue Fever outbreak here.

‘Do not hurry me,’ says PM PRIME MINISTER and Political Leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Dr Ralph Gonsalves has asked his supporters to be patient and to be ready when the date for the next General Elections is called.

Speaking at the ULP’s (ULP) second virtual political meeting on September 16, Gonsalves referred to the song ‘Ring de Bell’, written and performed by local Soca Artiste Rondy ‘Luta’ McIntosh.

Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves “Since then, the members and supporters of this great fully prepared.” party have been clamoring for me to And in his characteristic use of declare the election date…in local idioms and references, response, I have said to the people ‘on Gonsalves declared, “As the son of a your marks’,” he said. farmer, as a man who raised cattle “I will shortly advise our and goat myself, as a man who supporters, comrades and the Labour represents a farming community, it family “to get set,” the Prime Minister ain’t long rope that does heng cattle… continued. is short rope. And the short rope Gonsalves further said that in would appear not too long from now. giving that advice, he expects the But before I bring out and get ready people to wait patiently, soberly and with the short rope to heng the wisely for the bell. metaphoric NDP cattle, I am asking “Please do not hurry me…. I am the Labour family to be fully asking something instead of the prepared,” Gonsalves said. (DD) Labour family. Be fully prepared, be

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4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Education

$12m-tablet scheme still to unfold This is what one model of a Samsung tablet looks like.

WHEN THIS PUBLICATION last reported on Friday 11th September, 2020, on the ‘case’ of the tablets (computers) promised to senior primary, secondary and college students here, the bulk of some 30,000 units to be provided was still to be ordered.

Since that report, there has been no indication about when the students can expect to receive their tablets, save and except to say that last week, while speaking on radio (WEFM), the Prime

Minister disclosed that the 30,000 units to be provided coast an estimated $12 million.

He, like Ministers of Finance and Education before him, acknowledged that there were “3,000 tablets on the ground,” … and we are ordering another 25,000,” but gave no indication whatsoever of a time plan for ordering, shipping, arrival and distribution.

The only other information given by the Prime Minister on

this matter was that the 25,000 that are yet to be ordered, “14,000 will be of the same Samsung brand, …11,000 units, approximately, of another type called JOSH.” The Samsung units are earmarked for college, senior secondaty and senior primary students, while the JHOSH unit are “for the lower classes, grade and down, of the primary schools…,” the Prime Minister said.

Farmers to get $$ soon WHETHER IT IS A DROUGHT or a covid-19 related payment, at least one farmer who spoke with THE VINCENTIAN under anonymity said he would welcome “any kind of ‘sistance from government at dis time.”

He was at the time relating his experience of having to endure one of the worst droughts in his eight or so years of farming.

“So, I Man tankful for whaeva mercies come I Man way,” the farmer said.

He had lost most of the what he planted, “ (be)fore dey even put out good leaves,” he recalled.

He added with a chuckle, “I Man doh tink even the Lard’s Holy Herb could ah grow in them conditions, so I

At least one farmer is looking forward to his first payment after having suffered through the recent drought. man tankful.”

The farmer was responding to what he said he had heard Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves say on radio last week… “how he was goin to start pay out some relief for farmers because he know we suffer plenty.”

In fact, the Prime Minister had said that the process had begun, but that officers concerned were dealing with “…the four thousand and something persons that had registered, but they are sanitizing it, double checking it, because some people had turned up and registered without having their farmer’s card, some don’t have farmer’s cards.”

The Prime Minister said that the Ministry of Finance is waiting for the double checking of the list to be complete in order to begin distributing the first payment of $500.00 per farmer, which he said is set to begin in a few days.

He assured the farmers that during his absence from the state, the Minister of Agriculture Hon. Saboto Caesar will speak to the farming community in this upcoming week.

Meanwhile, all vendors registered with that part of the Covid-19 Stimulus Package that is administered by the Ministry of Transport and Works began receiving their payments last Tuesday.

More CXC assessments awaited MINISTRY OF EDUCATION officials, principals, teachers, students, parents, wellwishers and all those having anything to do with the 2020 Caribbean Examinations Council Secondary Certificate Examinations (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), were awaiting a review of this year’s performance up to Thursday September 24.

The results were released the previous day, but other than individual students accessing their results

on the CXC portal, 2425 CSEC candidates were kept in limbo as per the top individual performers overall and top performances in the various subject areas.

Of that total registration, there were 1569 school candidates and 572 private entries at the CSEC level.

Five hundred and thirty (530) school and 37 private candidates accounted for the 530 registrants at the CAPE level.

According to the

Ministry of Education, National Reconciliation and Information, the Caribbean Examinations Council was “engaged in reviewing the results in specific subject disciplines.” Myccle Burke, Permanent secretary in that Ministry promised a “more detailed report on students’ performances,’ when the task was complete.

Dengue! Close the schools!

HARVEY FARRELL, a retired Health Educator, said while speaking on the New Democratic Party’s New Times Radio Programme on Tuesday, that it might be a good thing if children were not in school during the dengue outbreak.

Drawing on his three decades and more experience as an Health Educator, Farrell declared: “The school plant is an area where dengue can spread very, very easily. And I’ll tell you why. It is because of the habit of the mosquito we have that spreads the disease, the.”

Farrell was referring to the fact that the aedes aegypti mosquito, carrier of the disease, bites mainly in

the daylight hours, which makes the school plants easy and conducive feeding grounds for them.

The Health Educator suggested that the children wear sock since it appears, the area of the ankle is popular with the mosquito.

Farrell, too, registered his concern for those ladies who wear short dresses, exposing themselves to the mosquito.

A change of style would not be a bad option, Farrell posited.

The current dengue outbreak, the worst in eight or so years, has counted, up to this week, 374 laboratory confirmed cases. (See Back Page Story).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 5.

Court

Court wants to hear from butcher

the matter, but as the evidence unfolded on Wednesday, Senior LOCAL BUTCHER TERRY Magistrate Rickie GIBSON is expected to Burnett saw it fit to have testify at the trial in which him summoned, so the Augustin Soleyn of Belair Court could have a better has been charged with understanding of what using indecent language happened. to Supt. Joel James, head Supt. James had told of the RSVG Police Force the Kingstown Fire Department.

Magistrate’s Court on Gibson was not listed Wednesday, that around originally as a witness in 6:30 pm on August 6 he Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

went to Terry Gibson’s butcher stall at Bay Street, Kingstown, dressed in uniform. He met Gibson sitting in a chair, and a polite young man approached him and asked what he wanted to get. He responded accordingly and the young man then proceeded to a separate room in the stall.

“An aggressive young

Student accuses adult of assault A 19-YEAR-OLD STUDENT Of the School For Children with Special Needs, Kingstown, is among the most recent youngsters to have reported incidents of violence allegedly committed against them by adults.

The student’s report resulted in Douglas Samuel of Rose Place being arrested and charged with assault, causing bodily harm to the student, by throwing rum in his face.

At the trial at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, the student testified that during the incident he was at a shop at Little Tokyo in the company of his aunt, helping a woman, who was selling rum, to lift a refrigerator. The refrigerator accidentally slipped from him and fell on the hand of the accused, who responded by throwing rum in his face, some getting into his eyes.

He said his aunt gave him water to

wash the rum from his eyes, and she got his cousin to take him to the hospital.

In his defense, Samuel told the court that it was a very old refrigerator and he (Samuel) was raising it to take out a bottle of Fruit Cocktail, when the student offered to help.

Samuel said he told the boy repeatedly not to “let go the fridge,” because he was going to take out a Cocktail, but the boy did not comply, and the fridge fell on his (Samuel) hand.

The man admitted to having a drink in the other hand, and as he swung that hand in a reflex action, the rum spilled from the glass and caught the youngster in his face. He said he would never do anything to harm him, and told the court that one ‘Tuff Head’ was present.

Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett then adjourned the matter to September 29, allowing for time to locate ‘Tuff Head.’

School books in wrong hands DWIGHT JOHN will serve two consecutive three-month sentences for unlawful possession of secondary schools books, reasonably suspected to be unlawfully obtained.

The 53-year-old of Calder, was sentenced to three months in prison on Wednesday, after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of six secondary school

texts, bearing the stamp on the Girls’ High School (GHS) Book Loan Scheme.

John was found in possession of those books on Tuesday, just days after he was bonded for one year in the sum of $1,000 with an alternative of three months in prison, for a similar offense also involving secondary school texts bearing the

stamp of the GHS Book Loan Scheme.

The bond was activated on Wednesday, after John pleaded guilty to the second charge.

On both occasions, John had told the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court he found the books.

Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett handed down both penalties.

man then came from that room, and asked in an aggressive way, “Whey you want, whey you want?’”

James continued: “I asked him if that is the way he deals with customers, and he replied, ‘You na see you na know what you want.’”

The Officer said that at this point he told the young him that he preferred not to deal with him, and as he was about to leave Gibson asked him what he would like to have and he answered.

But the aggressive

young man butted in , telling James, “Nah de same ting me ask you?

You so (expletive) dotish.”

It was at that stage James decided to arrest him.

James said he asked Gibson if he heard what the man said, and Gibson replied in the affirmative.

The Superintendent told the court he felt grossly disrespected as a Senior Police Officer, especially in light of it being done in the presence of several persons and while he was in uniform.

“It is no way I am going ahead with this case without Mr. Gibson,” Magistrate Burnett ruled at this

point.

Recognising that Gibson was not in court but that he was certain that if the court requested his presence he would comply, the Magistrate instructed the police to go across to Gibson’s butcher and let him know the court’s request.

However, Gibson was not at his stall, the police reported. He had gone to “country.”

Burnett then made the order to have Gibson summoned to appear in court on September 30, the date to which the matter was adjourned.

Prosecutor Curlene Samuel is leading the case for the prosecution, while Soleyn is without legal representation.

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6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Guilty as charged SECTION 6 OF THE CONSTITUTION of St Vincent and the Grenadines, is captioned: Protection from deprivation of property.

It reads, “No property of any description shall be compulsorily taken possession of, and no interest or right over property ... shall be compulsorily acquired, except for a public purpose and except where provision is made by law applicable for the taking of possession or acquisition for the payment, within a reasonable time of adequate compensation.”

The Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is the single, sacrosanct pillar on which our sovereign state stands. It supersedes all other tenets unless somewhere along the line some crafty group of parliamentarians, unbeknown to the citizenry, circumvented the process, and amended some piece of legislation that usurps the authority originally vested in it.

Now let’s apply the section as referenced to the recent action by government to, as it professes, ‘acquire’ the lands belonging to Mrs. Simone Murray and her family, who have been in legal possession of the lands in question for close to ninety years.

To date, as we understand it, there has been no survey of the lands in question, that would point out clear demarcation of the lands government desires to ‘acquire’.

In fact, there has never been, to the best of our knowledge, any overture, no pre-formal notification by the government to the Murrays, to indicate that it intended to ‘acquire’ lands belonging to them, and for what purpose as referred to in Section 6, the ‘acquisition’ was intended.

In fact, there has been, gazetted notice or not, no execution of relevant protocol, though the action by government has given the impression to those who occasioned the action by government in the first place, that they have all right to remain where they are, ignoring legal notices for them to vacate the lands, and to act in a manner as though they are the owners of the land.

Further, Dr. Wayne Murray, his wife Simone and their children, who are present day custodians of the land, have complained of acts of trespassing, theft and even threats by persons to whom, it appears, the land to be ‘acquired’ is to be allotted.

There was a rather cosmetic presence of law enforcement when Dr. Murray called for their intervention to keep the peace.

The iniquitous actions of the ‘new owners’ have continued unabated, escalating to the point of Dr. Murray having to ‘drop his otherwise upright guard’, to post on Facebook that he would do what was necessary to protect his family and himself, from vile and open threats.

Well, who tell him say that!!! He was detained on the grounds of having made a ‘life threatening’ posting on Facebook, but was subsequently released without charge.

If to date: the government has not formalized its notice to acquire the (private) property under the custodianship of the Murrays; if it has not stated in formal documentation a clear and unambiguous public purpose for which the land is being acquired; if it has not stated a fair market price at which the owners/custodians of the land will be compensated; if it is ‘acquiring’ lands to allocate to disrespecting persons who will remain ‘neighbours’ of the Murrays , then it is guilty of having transgressed innocent citizens, and guilty of flying in the face of our Constitution.

Further, by its pre-mature action, insinuations, and innuendo, which has fueled a bad atmosphere that now hovers over the Murrays and a number of ‘tenants’ who have disregarded legal appeals to make good on their rent and/or to vacate, government has pronounced itself guilty of having caused emotional distress of potentially catastrophic repercussions for a young couple and their children, all citizens of this country.

The Election countdown no:2

Choice of National Heroes (First published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday suitability of Cato for that highest award.

25th September, 2016) Even Jomo Thomas showed his disgust in resigning his chairmanship of the SINCE 2001, the ULP Government, having Committee. formalised the choice of Chatoyer as our But Gonsalves figured that Jomo’s First National Hero, has been on the elusive reluctance was really without effect and, search of a full complement of such icons to during that period ,ushered him into a serve as an inspirational force to our young group of Caribbean-wide academics nation. committed on Reparation for Black Slavery, The debate has ranged far and wide. accepted his application for membership of There have been panel discussions, radio the ULP, named him as senator of the talk, public lectures and general ruling party, Deputy Speaker of the House, commentary on the topic and indeed, the and preferred candidate to contest the South debate is near exhaustion by now.

Leeward seat.

So far, there seems to be an emergent Adorned with the foregoing laurels, it is consensus of three additional heroes: very difficult if not impossible, for the George Mc Intosh, Ebenezer Joshua and erudite and articulate Jomo not to support Parmenos Eustace. the elevation of Milton Cato in a showdown The ULP Government appointed a with Blazer and Rose.

Committee to look into the matter and make Mc and Josh have already seeped into the recommendations, leaving Cabinet with the people’s conscience as National Heroes. In final “say” published by the Governorother words, I expect that Milton Cato will General. legally be enthroned as a National Hero This strategy has been pursued, varying along with Dr. Parmenos Eustace, who as a vigorously over the past fourteen years. It contributor to social development was certainly has run into trouble. In fact it brilliantly presented by a student of Doc’s, looks as if the process has backed into a Dr. Vin Samuel, in an article in a journal of blind-alley over the selection of one the Kings. controversial figure, Robert Milton Cato.

Incidentally, I have recently enjoyed a The ULP had planned since 2001 to so holiday in Western Europe where my niece, name Cato, and all sorts of gatherings met Hazel Smith, presented me an unpublished in support. But it fell short mainly because, memoir of the John family in which two though promoted by Ralph Gonsalves, it was stories are confirmed. We are direct opposed by several persons, led by the likes descendants of the Garifuna people whose of Renwick Rose, Blazer Williams and Jomo Chief Chatoyer is our First National Hero.

Thomas who generally supported the ULP, And she is full of praise for her education and Oscar Allen, who enjoys an enviable and development which were provided by reputation as a local thinker above and Dr. Eustace, hopefully our newest hero. beyond the pale of our fratricidal politics.

In regard to Cato’s status, I do not trust Enter the UWI, in an honest brokerage the behaviour of our intellectual types who role, which sponsored serious lectures on the sway with the prevailing winds. But it issue. Dr. Adrian Fraser was simply would be a sad day if Cato is so uplifted as brilliant in his advocacy of George Mc that ascent would be used by his East St Intosh.

George successor-candidate, Dr. Gonsalves’ I followed with a factual account that first son, Camillo, as a boost at the next pointed the way to promote Ebenezer general elections, a stepping-stone to the Joshua of course. I also gave reasons why leadership of the ULP, in fulfilment of Cato cannot be supported, using an antidynastic ambitions.

Cato passage of a speech by Ralph himself You can read and educate yourself by as my anchor. sifting through a publication I intend to put Following Adrian’s and my own talks, together before and if the P.M announces Ralph decided that he would make his own additional heroes, on the eve of our next views public in the said series of talks.

Independence Day. In spite of his having the final say in the Incidentally, I had originally suggested a process by law, Ralph Gonsalves fifth National Hero, Captain Hugh Mulzac volunteered to enter the lecture series by of Union Island. But he was eliminated by a pronouncing on his unpopular view of the too narrow definition of national heroism.

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 7.

Views

The way I see it AS THEY SAY IN A FREE and open democracy, every man has the right to an opinion. And until someone tells me otherwise, we live in a free and open democracy, so it follows that I have a right to an opinion.

For what it’s worth, I would like to share my opinion regarding the next elections.

As we go into the next general elections, which the Prime Minister promised he would call before the end of 2020, the way I see it, is that the Unity Labour Party (ULP) has four safe seats, and the New

Democratic Party (NDP) five.

For the ULP, those four are North Central Windward (Dr. Ralph Gonsalves), South Windward (Frederick Stephenson), East St. George (Camillo Gonsalves) and Marriaqua (Jimmy Prince).

The NDP can safely say they have the Northern Grenadines (Dr. Godwin Friday), Southern Grenadines (Terrence Ollivierre), West Kingstown (Daniel Cummings), Central Kingstown (St. Clair Leacock) and South

Leeward (Nigel Stephenson).

That means that mathematically speaking, the NDP goes into the next general elections with an edge.

But it would mean first of all consolidating those five seats, ensuring they can hold on to the other two (North Leeward and East Kingstown) that they have at present, and then concentrating on taking at least one constituency away from the ULP, so that they can turn the result of 87, at minimum, to their advantage. That one constituency that could

be theirs for the taking is Central Leeward.

In the case of the ULP, following on the above they would first of all have to consolidate their safe seats, so that they can go out and work to retain the other four that they currently have: Cental Leeward, South Central Windward, West St. George and North Windward, and then taking at least one seat to widen their majority, 9-6. I am of the opinion that the seat the ULP can add to the eight they have now is East Kingstown.

Someone once told me

Raise the ceiling or lower the floor: IN BUSINESS, life, and even politics, we are faced with two simple choices every day, on how to create value to our brand. We can either raise the ceiling or lower the floor. This applies to any kind of brand or having some hard conversations with others where sometimes you have to be the bigger person.

Once again, I would like to call on the representatives of the ULP and the NDP to elevate the conversation that characterizes the current ‘political season’. I know as candidates and a party you are saying that you have no control over the action of all your supporters. But, I say you do, by the things you choose to condone with your silence or your passive rejection of the comments with a wink and a nod.

How can you raise the ceiling?

Bring a respectable tone to the conversation. Make people glad that they trusted you. Mainly, raising the ceiling means you can make the election about a battle of ideas for the soul and minds of the people. You know that you are raising the ceiling when people begin to talk about your ideas and discuss the merits and bring new ones of their own to the

table, or at least doing something positive to show their support for you.

So far we seem content to lower the floor for more instant gratification and shock effects. The recent desecration of the Kingstown Cemetery by Luta is an example of an act that should be condemned by everyone; instead the ULP quickly came out and disavowed any relationship with

Luta, even after he said he was working on a project to sell to the ULP. The prevailing attitude seems to be,‘do whatever it takes and ask for forgiveness later’.

Each and every one of you have a responsibility to our nation to raise the ceiling and create a nation in which we would want to live and of which we all can be proud.

Horatio

Love and Forgiveness HAVE WE FORGOTTEN how to love and forgive? These are two very powerful tools that give freedom and can bring success.

In Matthew 6:15, we are told, “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” While, it is hard to forgive, to forgive is mandatory if we want our sins to be forgiven. Can you imagine the multitudes of persons who go to church, and those who don’t go, but fail to forgive and will end up in hell?

Love we are told is of God. In 1 John 3:15 it is said that if you hate your brother without a cause, you are guilty of death.

We are further told not to love with words or speech but in action.

Love is words

demonstrated in action.

Society has changed; we no longer love each other as we used to; we no longer forgive.

Instead we seek to take our revenge and spew out hatred, especially in this elections time, and create enemies along the way.

When we forgive, we free ourselves and allow God to work. At the same time we allow God to forgive us so that we can receive His blessings and obtain freedom of conscience, and peace of mind.

In loving, we see each other for who we are. We accept each other with faults and weaknesses.

If we just display a little bit of love and forgiveness, our world would be a better place: crimes would be reduced if not eradicated; there

would be less disputes and cursing. Thus, there would be more peace and a sense of appreciation of each other.

Let us bear in mind that no one is perfect, thus the need to forgive one another. We all at some point in our lives would value being loved by others.

I pray that we will love one another and by God’s grace forgive each other. In doing so we would live in freedom and we open ourselves for God’s blessings which comes only from the Lord.

Party politics should not prevent us from loving and forgiving one another.

May GOD bless SVG and give us peace.

Kennard King 4857324

that the most difficult thing in politics is to change a one seat majority into your favour. If we have to judge from the NDP over the last two elections, that might just be true.

Nonetheless, I want to stick my head out and say, if I had to call a winner at this stage, I’ll have to decline. I have, in my opinion, pointed out what I think the parties have to do and it is now left entirely up to them.

One thing: let there be a free and fair election. As they said, an election can be won by ill-means used before the

date we vote. Let’s hope that the many illegal things that we might be tempted to employ are not.

Curtis John

The Dengue Scare THE GRENADINES are particularly vulnerable to contracting Dengue because of the widespread availability of breeding grounds for the mosquito vector that spreads the disease. These breeding places include ponds, wells, public water catchments, concrete water tanks, black tanks, drums, buckets, swampland and crab holes.

Additional breeding places are provided by coconut shells, old tires, guttering, cans, bottles, kitchen scraps that can hold water, overgrown bushes and certain water-holding plants.

Several measures can help to curb the spread of Dengue. These may be mechanical, biological or chemical. The mechanical method includes installing window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of houses; surrounding beds with mosquito nets; killing mosquitoes with electrical and mechanical hand swats; using fans to blow them away; and covering waters with a film of oil to prevent the larva from breeding. A gadget that emits certain sounds can also be deployed to control mosquitoes.

Of particular importance to the Grenadines is securing entrances and exits of all containers used to store waters. Engineers need to design special gadgets that would allow entry of water but not mosquitoes.

Biological mosquito control methods include introducing larva-eating fish, such as millions, into ponds and water tanks. House lizards and spiders are known to eat mosquitoes. Bats, birds and frogs eat mosquitoes also.

Chemical mosquito control methods include smoke production by burning bush or cow dung.

Mosquito coils and fogging by health officials are also used. The fog and smoke are deployed at around sunset when Insecticide sprays and chemicals added to water may also be used but they may have negative environmental effects.

Symptoms of Dengue may include high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains and a characteristic skin rash.

Dengue requires urgent medical care and it is reported that some persons have died from the disease. Some doctors are recommending papaya leaf juice, fresh guava juice, and lots of fluids to prevent dehydration. It is very important to follow the advice of qualified health care providers.

Knowing that mosquitoes are the vectors for the Dengue virus, the onus is on us to control its spread by deploying mechanical, biological and/or chemical methods of control.

Anthony Stewart, PhD

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8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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Managing the Covid 19 Pandemic It’s Time for Youth and Women

to Prosper

Introduction ON MARCH 25TH 2020, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves addressed the nation on the global pandemic, or Covid19, as the World Health Organisation dubbed it. At that time, the world as we know it, was thrown in a crisis from the virus. It touched the lives of people in countries near and far, particularly in the United States, where large numbers of Vincentians reside.

As it was on March 25th, 2020, the country had only recorded one case of Covid- 19, an imported case from the United Kingdom. However, the government of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, along with the Ministry of Health, have not been complacent in their approach to the treatment of Covid-19. In fact, the Prime Minister in his address on March 25th, outlined a series of measures in the fight against Covid-19, including a multi-dimensional approach to Covid19, to include health measures, and an economic stimulus programme.

Since then, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has operated as if it has not been impacted in a serious way,

by Covid-19. Life has continued as normal, people have gone to their jobs, schools have re-opened, and commercial activities have flourished in the usual way. From time to time the Ministry of Health issues some cautions in respect of people gathering for events like funerals and picnics, but by and large, life continued as normal.

(Excerpts of Lavern King’s presentation at a virtual Meeting) proceeded without any problems.

The ULP strategy The battle against Covid-19 is first of all a fight to protect the health of all Vincentians, and the government has made the necessary decisions to better equip the public health system, to battle the pandemic. The government has also retrofitted and equipped a facility to serve as a 25bed isolation centre for the treatment of Covid-19 patients.

On April 7th 2020, the government took to Parliament a recovery and stimulus programme with important provisions to better prepare the country to battle the pandemic. The ULP administration recognised that Covid-19 also affected the economy of the country, since certain businesses were forced to close, and people were without jobs.

And so a number of Vincentians were provided with small cash grants to help them through this crisis.

Through the NIS, Vincentians have been assisted in a number of ways, to ensure that they will rise stronger from the ashes of Covid 19. The hospitality sector in particular, which has been severely affected by the pandemic, has been provided with a stimulus package.

Enter the NDP

Conclusion

The opposition party here, the New Democratic Party, not to be outdone, entered the fray with a series of pronouncements that made absolutely no sense. Without paying attention to the science around Covid-19, and without understanding what the ULP administration was going to do, the NDP proceeded to frighten the living day lights out of Vincentians.

The NDP informed the country that there will be two thousand deaths here from the Covid-19 pandemic, and that fifty thousand persons will become infected. They then called for an entire lock down of the country, nothing going out and nothing coming in. They said “lock it down tight, tight, tight”. They were prepared to subject the citizens of the country to a series of draconian measures, so as to make life difficult. They tried to use the fear factor generated by the presence of the disease to create a support structure for their attacks on the government, as well as hard working officials from the Ministry of Health, and the Police Department. This did not work, since the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines preferred to listen to the messages from Comrade Ralph and his team.

Because of the attitude of locking down the country, the NDP was not prepared for the return of Vincentians who were working with cruise ships and the oil rigs in the gulf area. And so the NDP created a mass of confusion, and they managed to use some sailors in this regard. But the ULP administration had their plans in place, and the return of our sailors

Some employees have been laid off or being sent home because of the economic consequences of the pandemic, particularly in the hospitality sector. Indeed, the government through the Buildings Roads and Bridges Authority, BRAGSA, has been involved in a number of construction and repair work to government buildings in the State, as a way to further stimulate economic activity.

Many Vincentians have expressed approval for the way in which the ULP administration has handled the Covid-19 crisis. No one has died from the pandemic, and no medical worker has been affected. To date our country has recorded 64 cases of Covid-19, all of whom have recovered. It means that as of September 21st, there are no Covid-19 cases in the country. It also means that some four thousand, seven hundred and seventy four tests (4774) have been conducted in the country. Amazing!

There is no lock down process in our country, and people are free to go about their commercial activities. Our Argyle International Airport is still operating and we have been accepting flights from Canada, the United States and the rest of the region.

Government officials from the OECS and the Caricom group have marveled at how the ULP administration has been able to come to grips with Covid-19. The ULP has followed the science, act prudently on the medical advice of the professionals in the Ministry of Health, be guided by the sage advice from the WHO, PAHO and the CPHA.

I STAND HERE because I am fully aware of the issues that are affecting the youth and women in our country. I stand here as a young person and as a woman knowing how it feels to have done all that family and country ask of you, how it feels to work toward the top but have the system pull you down. I stand here knowing how it feels to sit on the unemployment bench.

The IMF says that 46 percent of our young people are unemployed.

That is almost half of us. We live in a country where it seems only the higher-ups and the well-connected are making it, but I am here to present a leader, a man who says that his number one, number two, and number three priority is jobs. Dr. Friday says that he will not rest until he has provided meaningful opportunities for our young people. And this is how I know he means it.

When he learned of the high interest rates on student loans that are currently crippling our young professionals, Dr. Friday set about to research the matter and devised a solution. The resulting New Democratic Party (NDP) policy position is to reduce interest rates on student loans from 8 and 9 percent down to 4 and 5 percent, and those who already have loans will have the opportunity to renegotiate terms.

That means more money back in our pockets; more money to invest in house and land; more money to give back to our parents; more money to finally start working towards a more fruitful future.

This is not all. I know that the current YES programme is in need of revision. There are young people on it who are bitterly complaining about the low, exploitative compensation.

Dr. Friday has said: “I have heard your cry and I am committed to increasing your monthly stipend from $450 a month to a minimum of $600 a month. That is more money in your pocket!”

I am proud to support a man whose philosophy is built on empowering our people.

In case you didn’t know, a favourite scripture of our party leader is 3 John 1:2 “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”

It is time for Vincy youth to prosper; it is time that our people stop being viewed as ‘beggy, beggy’; it is time for our country to work, work, work!

I want to talk to my Vincentian sisters in particular. We have seen the current regime being mum, maintaining a dignified silence when questions of women’s exploitation arise. But let’s face it. Instead of putting in place a real and practical plan to assist abused women, they have also maintained a ‘dignified silence’.

It is evident to me that we have an errant Minister of Gender Affairs.

Under his stewardship, that ministry is totally lacking in considered, sober policies aimed at tackling the issues

disproportionately affecting women.

The gender ministry lacks progressive leadership. We have heard over and over the clips of women screaming and pleading for help; we have seen several videos of women being battered and still no solid plan.

Friends, the NDP says that we will build a home and implement a programme that will support women who are fleeing abusive relationships.

This programme will take into consideration the social, psychological and financial constraints of women seeking to leave abusive relationships, and provide adequate support for a specified period of time until each recipient can stand on her own.

We have seen the Unity Labour Party (ULP). We know that they are complacent. They have nothing new to offer to us. The time is now for betterment. To those who have an intention of supporting the ULP, as someone who loves the old hymns, I want to borrow a few lines from Glen Campbell, “When you see your brother falling by the way, just stop and say, you’re going the wrong way.”

If you had any intentions of voting for the ULP, I have stopped by tonight to let you know that you are going the wrong way, and there is a better way, there is a better day that is on our horizon. Friday is coming.

The Neglect of Canouan Last night, it was said that more than 2 billion EC dollars were collected in revenue from the Canouan Jet Port within the past 19 years or since construction. That’s about 1/2 billion EC dollars every 5 years.

From my understanding, this does not include monies from the sale of lands. It also does not include monies generated through mega yachts, and we know quite a few pass through our waters.

Backed by the continuous advocacy of the Honourable Terrance Ollivierre, Canouan residents and their children had to protest for a secondary school, which was eventually built by the investors. Further, no roads have been built in Canouan since 2001.

Every time I go home to Canouan, I want to weep. Weep, because of the state of our wharf. We are in desperate need of a proper wharf – a critical part of the livelihood of the people of the island.

And with the multi-billion-dollar construction development taking place in Canouan, one would expect that Canouan would have a medical facility, equipped and adequately staffed to deal with accidents and emergencies.

And whilst I am at it, Canouan people can’t get land to buy. We, the youth, have to be ‘cotching’ at and building on our parents’ houses. We are tired! We are sick and tired of the neglect and complacency. How much more can St. Vincent and the Grenadines take? It’s time for the NDP so we can get St. Vincent and the Grenadines working again.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 9.

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Moments of solitude

The State of play

“Blessed are those who do not fear solitude, who are not afraid of their own company, who are not always desperately looking for something to do, something to amuse themselves with, something to judge.”~ Paulo Coelho De Souza (born 1947) – Brazilian lyricist and novelist.

IF WE MARK DECEMBER 10, 2020 as the outside date within which elections will be called, there are less than 80 days before Vincentians decide which party will lead them for the next five. The elections of 2010 and 2015 both ended in an 8 to 7 result. Each of the two major parties will be vying to loosen the logjam.

Rhetoric notwithstanding, the opposition leaders and their supporters are cautiously optimistic. ULP leaders and supporters are cocksure of a 5th term. Evidently, the ULP bullishness stems from the fact that it has the power of incumbency and has consistently used it to its advantage.

The expression of confidence by opposition leaders has not yet captured the imagination of some of its core supporters. They fear that even with hard work they may come up short again.

Gonsalves has repeatedly claimed that his ULP received a ‘bad hand’ in 2001, even as his party romped home to a 12 to 3 electoral victory and 56 percent of the votes cast. He claimed to have steadied the ship of state, and that things are much better than they were 20 years ago.

Those in opposition, and especially independent-minded citizens, maintain that progress has been lopsided, and that we have had development only on the margins, not enough to have a transformative impact on most citizens.

Poverty at 30 percent, daily begging of young and old on the streets, high unemployment rate (estimated to be over 40 percent of young people0, and the hundreds of higglers on the streets eking out a living, provide evidence of a developmental malaise.

The corresponding high levels of crimes against persons and property, particularly sexual assaults and rape, theft of livestock, fruits, vegetables and ground provisions of farmers; the rapidly increasing helplessness and hopefulness which have arrested pockets of our citizenry , are frightening proof that the more things change, the more they remain the same.

A significant section of the population asserts if ever there was a time for a change, the time is now. But will most of the voters’ demand change and ensure that it comes? While dissatisfaction is seething and anger is growing, this reality may be reflecting signs of resignation and alienation from the status quo rather than activism intended to change the order of things.

Gonsalves initially expressed an interest in two terms, promised to make the election of 2010 his last as leader, but is going for a 5th term. He may want to go, but the political dynamic does not allow him. He has done everything since 2000 to groom his son to relieve him but the polls may not be cheering him on - at least not yet.

He remains a lightning rod for good and bad. He could be caring and callous, inspiring and spiteful, uplifting and wont to dive into the gutters if he calculates that politics of the lowest order will take him to the highest heights. In many respects, including popular appeal, he may be the best and the worst the ULP has to offer. The rhetoric about transition, which was such a prominent feature in the 2015 election campaign, has all but disappeared from the leader.

But elections 2020 must be his last

WE MAY SOMETIMES APPEAR to be anti-social when we seek to spend time by ourselves. Those moments when we seek to be alone with our thoughts could very well be interpreted as our being impolite. However, there is value in solitude. Those times could be most valuable as we seek to gain greater insights in relation to our thoughts and actions. Introspection is absolutely essential as we seek to better understanding how we can be more prudent in relation to various aspects of our lives. These quiet moments can assist us in better planning for our physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

As we explore thoughts in relation to the value of solitude, it is important that we avoid equating this with loneliness. May Sarton (19121995), the Bulgarian-American poet, provides a vivid description of the differences when she notes that, “Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is richness of self.” While loneliness may be associated with some aspects of “self-poverty” through a variety of physical, social, spiritual, or emotional abandonment; solitude can create a greater appreciation and richness of self.

In today’s fast-moving world, with its numerous distractions, we can easily succumb to stress and depression as we seek to squeeze every last moment to facilitate an activity. Multi-tasking now becomes popular and, if we are not careful to carve out time for rest, relaxation, and solitude, we could quite easily yield to burnout. Solitude has its value in enabling us to regroup and regenerate. It is certainly not to be considered as wasting otherwise productive time.

The word “solitude” originates from the Latin word “solus” which means “alone”. Solitude describes our being alone with our thoughts and away from distractions. Such occurrences provide us opportunities to engage in self-reflection and a deeper understanding of our deeper selves as well as the situations or circumstances that surround and/or confront us. These priceless moments can be considered critical as we endeavour to maximize our core capabilities and determine how best to enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. Here the enrichment must not be limited to material gain but rather to how best to improve productivity levels in all spheres of our being. Spending time with ourselves should therefore be an activity that each of us should endeavour to engage in on a more frequent and consistent basis.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (17561791), the accomplished musical composer of the Classical period, found great comfort during his periods of solitude. He is recorded to have said, “When I am completely by myself, entirely alone or during the night when I cannot sleep, it is on such occasions that my ideas flow best and most abundantly. Whence and how these ideas come I know not nor can I force them.” His musical

compositions from the 1700s still relax and inspire us today. There is value in creating those moments of solitude.

Rollo May (1909-1994), the accomplished American psychologist and author reminds us that, “In order to be open to creativity, one must have the capacity for constructive use of solitude. One must overcome the fear of being alone.” His book entitled “Man’s Search for Himself” (see YouTube summary at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qG mpoKAUM-U) provides useful insights in relation to how we can create and sustain a more accomplished life if/when we make the time for regular and objective introspection — a practice that assists us in creating and sustaining the habit of self-improvement.

There are many New Testament examples of Jesus Christ engaging in the practice of solitude. For example, in Matthew 14:13 we read, “When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.” The situation described here in relation to “what had happened” was the traumatic and emotionally-wrenching situation that resulted in the murder of his cousin John the Baptist. Other New Testament passages (e.g. Mark 1:35; 6:46; and Luke 5:16) record His seeing the need for solitude — to be alone. In some of these instances He desired time to grieve (as in the case revolving around the death of John the Baptist). On other occasions He sought out solitude to embrace the comfort of the Father. He found great value in those moments of isolation.

And so can we.

This reader regularly enjoys reading the pearls of wisdom that emanated from the outstanding German-born theoretical physicist, Albert Einstein (1879-1955). He developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics.

However, he was also an outstanding philosopher. He, too, found great benefit from his moments of solitude.

Interestingly enough, he advocated that those moments appeared especially precious as we mature. He noted that, “I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.”

The restlessness of youth may result in solitude appearing boring and wasteful. However, people of all ages can benefit from this priceless time alone with self.

While not advocating that we become anti-social as we appear to run off to be by ourselves, the thoughts expressed here are intended to remind us of the value of making time to engage in solitary reflection.

Those individuals who engage in regular yoga exercises, monks, and other citizens who carve out periods when they get away from the hustles and bustles of life, can attest to the fact that there are tremendous benefits to creating those moments of solitude.

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

dance. If neither he nor his party wants to test someone else as the leader in an electoral contest, biology will demand that Gonsalves exit the political stage, thus exposing the ULP’s soft underbelly.

Be that as it may, Gonsalves, who stormed home to victory in 2001 with a 12 to 3 majority, watched as his party’s popular vote and parliamentary seats shrunk. The popular vote for the party ticked upward in 2015 and Gonsalves will like to leave a parting gift to the up and coming team. Forced to invoke the concessionary mantra ‘a win is a win’ after the 2010 and 2015 8 to 7 electoral victories, Gonsalves will want to leave with an increased majority in parliament.

And the party is pulling out all the stops. A bathhouse at Questelles Bay, promised more than a decade ago, will be in place for the elections. The Community Centre at Retreat, which had fallen into disrepair, is getting a new roof and replacement window.

Hopefully the clean running water and electricity will return. Vermont and Penniston Community Centres are showcases for the neglect of an area that strongly support the ULP. We shall soon see if people will forget or forgive.

In North Leeward, roads that went into disuse decades ago have gotten attention. Bridges in Chateaubelair, which collapsed years ago, are hastily being readied for completion as the election fever rises. Apparently, those in authority could not have cared less about the years of inconvenience faced by citizens.

It is becoming increasingly apparent that the sole purpose of winning elections is not to govern and bring benefits to the more desperate and marginalized sections of the population, but rather to prepare for the next election victory. In the meantime, the political and economic elite get fatter as they gorge themselves off the opportunity presented by the control of state power.

There are issues galore on which a properly organized opposition party can feast. If the NDP is serious about entering victory row after its twodecade long spell in opposition, it must first abandon its rhetoric about the elections being stolen. If it thinks it has no chance because the process is rigged against it - few persons in SVG believe this is the case - it must call a press conference, outline its case and boycott the elections. This idea is not novel. It has happened in our Caribbean before. However, charges of fraud before an election tell supporters not to bother because their efforts, no matter how determined, will be in vain.

If Dr. Friday and the NDP leadership think their chances are good and there is a real likelihood of success, they must arm and ready their supporters with that optimism and hone a clear message for the coming battle.

These upcoming elections are not over by a long shot. The race will tighten as the date for voting gets closer. We cannot yet say which party forms the next government.

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

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10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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Is the ULP committed to free and fair elections in SVG? IN ITS WEEKLY COLUMN IN THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, dated Friday 18 September 2020, the ULP regime says that it is committed to free and fair elections in SVG. History does not suggest that this is true.

Questions abound about the general elections held in SVG in 2005, 2010 and 2015 being free and fair.

The ULP regime had passed regulations banning customs duty exemptions on motor vehicles and other general elections equipment for all political parties other than the ULP and NDP regimes. This was just one of the ways that the ULP regime showed the nation that it was not interested in free and fair elections in SVG. This was a nasty and gross act of discrimination and a breach of Section 13 of the SVG Constitution. SVG Green Party pointed out that this was wrong; that all political parties should be treated equally. It was pointed out also, that all political parties should receive the same amount of tax and duty-free allowances for the general

election.

This very serious matter was reported to The SVG Christian Council in the 2010 and in 2015 by the Leader of SVG Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA. Meetings were held involving representatives of the ULP Regime, SVG Green Party and the SVG Christian Council.

The ULP Regime representative told the SVG Christian Council that the ULP Regime does not want an increase in small political

parties in SVG, and the Cabinet decision to ban customs relief on motor vehicles and other elections equipment will remain as applied to small political parties in SVG. The ULP regime did not reverse this gross wrongdoing and the 2005, 2010 and 2015 general elections were not free and fair. This was a sick approach by the ULP regime to hold on to power in SVG. Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA very strongly contends

that the SVG Christian Council and The National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism should take an ice cold bath on general election matters in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. They have been ineffective in ensuring free and fair elections in SVG. Their failure to resolve this issue and publicly denounce this breach of the SVG Constitution only serves to legitimise these serious wrongdoings by the ULP regime.

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie

The Beijing Platform for Action: Inspiration Then and Now

O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA strongly contends that our democracy in SVG is under threat when we do not have free and fair general elections in SVG. In the interest of democracy, all political parties should be treated equally. SVG is not a two-party state and all political parties registered with the Supervisor of Elections have a right to be treated fairly.

Vote SVG Green Party for free and fair elections and to secure the democracy of our great and blessed nation.

women and the environment, violence against. Women stand out as a rotting sore thumb.

This might be sound contradictory since as with respect to Violence against women, this is an area on which OVER THE PERIOD 4TH — 15TH equality and the empowerment of all much time is spent, and appropriate SEPTEMBER, 1995, an unprecedented women, everywhere. laws passed. But in practice, violence 17,000 official participants and 30,000 Two weeks of political debate followed, against women should not only be seen non-governmental activists streamed into heated at times, as representatives of 189 as domestic violence in all its forms, but Beijing to be part of the Fourth World governments hammered out also in the failures in the Conference on Women. They were commitments that were historic in scope. administration of justice, implementing remarkably diverse, coming from all Thirty thousand non-governmental of laws, and insufficient support parts/nations around the globe, but they activists attended a parallel Forum and systems at that level. had a single purpose in mind: gender kept the pressure on, networking, St. Vincent & The Grenadines has lobbying and training a global made regional news through the media spotlight. By the time the highlighting of the number of women conference closed, it had produced who have dropped cases against their the Beijing Declaration and attackers. It was, therefore, with great Platform for Action, the most interest that I read about a case in progressive blueprint ever for Berlin, Germany, where, after a victim advancing women’s rights. refused to testify, “the Judges As a defining framework for nonetheless convicted the man”, based change, the Platform for Action on the evidence before them. Can such made comprehensive commitments laws be passed here? under 12 critical areas of concern: Other instances are the continuing.

Women and the environment; stereotyping and negative images of Women in power and decisionwomen in the media, in non-recognition making; The girl child; Women and that assault weapons are also knives, the economy; Women and poverty; cutlasses, icepicks and guns, and when Violence against women; Human used on women, place them in rights of women; Education and situations of armed conflict. training of women’ Institutional There is also need too, to recognise mechanisms for the advancement of that women’s unpaid labour is a major women; Women and health; Women pillar in the economy, resulting in their and the media; Women and armed weak spending power. conflict.

A dearth of women in power and The Beijing process unleashed decision-making remains another remarkable political will and barrier begging to be knocked down. worldwide visibility. It connected Eleven years ago, the government and reinforced the activism of called a Referendum to make changes women’s movements on a global to the Constitution. The Referendum scale. Conference participants went was voted down. Had it won the home with great hope and clear required majority (two-thirds of the agreement on how to achieve electorate), there would have been equality and empowerment. Since greater advancement in gender then, governments, civil society and equality. One Article called for women the public have translated the to be at least 30 percent of the slate of Platform for Action’s promises into candidates of any political party. concrete changes in individual There is still hope. The Beijing countries.

Platform for Action, still forwardHow has St. Vincent & The looking and inspirational at 25, offers Grenadines measured up? important focus in rallying people Although there has been limited around gender equality and women’s publicity, we have done very well in empowerment. Its promises are the certain critical areas of concern: necessarily ambitious. But over time, the girl child, poverty, human with the continuing vision of stalwarts rights, education and training, of the Women’s Movement like Chaddis health, institutional mechanisms for Stapleton, Louise Charles, Jeanie the advancement of women.

McDonald, to name a few, and the Of the other six areas of women accumulating energy of new and the economy, violence against generations, they are within reach. women, women and the media, women and armed conflict, women Nelcia Robinson, Chair/Commonwealth in power and decision-making, Women’s Network

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 11.

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Sutherland recognizes Pat PrescodÊs help recognition by Junior Sutherland, the man behind the preparation and publication of the book, ‘Vincentian Patriotic and School Songs.

Speaking at the launch of the book last week Tuesday at the Peace Memorial Hall, Sutherland said one song “kept propping up.. .”

It was a song entitled ‘I love thee bless Hairouna’ by jazz music and poet Ellsworth ‘Shake’ Keane.

Acknowledging that he was able to “revive’ the composition with the help of Prescod, he recalled, “When I asked Patrick Prescod if he knew the Patrick Prescod would have song, he answered in the been involved to some affirmative saying he had done degree in many of the school a three part which he gave me. and folks songs composed I analyzed it, decided that I from the 1950s until his death was not going to use Mr. in 2013.

Prescod’s work and I did the SATB for that,” said LOCAL MUSIC ICON PATRICK Sutherland.

‘Pat’ Prescod, deceased, has He was so moved by the come in for a fair share of

whole experience with the song, when he was finished doing the SATB for it, he played it for ‘Shake Keane’s wife, seeking to get her permission to publish it.

According to Sutherland, she responded, “Ahhh, we.

Ellsworth would be very proud of this.” That was all he need to hear. The song made its way into the book of Patriotic and School Songs.

Prescod’s assistance also extended to ensuring that corrections were made to the St. Vincent Grammar and Girls’ High School songs.

As far as the Grammar School song was concerned, Sutherland related how Prescod drew his attention to where an accidental (a note of a pitch for pitch class) that is not a member of the scale) was supposed to have been placed, and an adjustment made in the lyrics… ‘by diligence’

instead of ‘of diligence’.

And when he approached Prescod with a copy of the Girls’ High School’s song as printed in the school’s 100th anniversary celebration magazine, Prescod said, “.. the person who did that transcription had made some errors in the accompaniment,” and he made available the original score which appears in the Book.

Sutherland also recognized Alban Henry as the person who composed the most folk songs and school songs, as can be found in the book.

He also alluded to a book “by Hazel-Ann Crichton that contains about 155 songs, and another 100-plus song compilation done by one Baisden for the OAS.” And when the task of putting it all together was over, Sutherland shared that

Junior Sutherland did not omit the role that music icon Patrick Prescod played in guiding his research that resulted in the book, ‘Vincentian Patriotic and School Songs his satisfaction is in knowing that ‘..anybody, anywhere, anytime can remember these (songs) and play the melodies.”

(KH)

V St. MartinÊs ÂOld BoysÊ honour ÂMs. FerdieÊ 12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

People

Mrs. Sylvia ‘Ms. Ferdie’ Ferdinand was the recipient of a more than deserving honour by those who were once ‘her St. Martin’s boys’. was S2.00.

Collins said that he learned about ‘Ms. Ferdie’ from classmates who were residents of Paul’s Avenue, and who introduced him to a glass of mauby and a cheese sandwich — all of which cost $1.

He added, “…. even if you did not have the $1, and you missed a few days, because you did not have money, on returning she would question you: “where Ms. Ferdie’ accepts a plaque from present day SMSS student Donnie Collins who do it quietly and we were you?’”

Jr, flanked on her left by past student Grant Connell, in the company of (L-R): thought that this was Collins admitted, “If it past students Martin LaBorde, Saboto Caesar and Dr. Jules Ferdinand. something that we were was not for ‘Ms. Ferdie’, I compelled to do,” Daniel would have gone SYLVIA FERDINAND, the road to Kingstown affordable meal for said. hungry.” affectionately known as students of the SMSS, Park, as though they “Students at the St Another past student, ‘Ms Ferdie’, has irrefutably but impacted their lives were her own.

Martins’ Secondary businessman Martin had a profound and in ways that kept them And so, following on School have benefitted LaBorde, shared his positive impact on on the ‘straight and an idea that was first immensely from her experience of benefitting hundreds of past and pitched by Grant narrow’— even giving generosity, and we from ‘Ms. Ferdie’s’ present-day students of Connell, lawyer and past needed to do this not some early lessons in kindness, recalling that the St Martin’s Secondary business and integrity. student of SMSS, the St next month, but now,” he he worked for her School (SMSS).

In addition to raising Martin’s Past Students continued. between 1970 and 1972 For close to six Association (SAMPASA), three sons of her own, ‘Ms. Ferdie’ was twice per week, and decades, ‘Ms Ferdie’ not she nurtured and looked decided to officially presented with a plaque collected $2.50. only provided an after the hundreds who recognize ’Ms. Ferdie’ for and a donation from a According to Laborde, passed through her the indelible and former student of the $1.25 went to his mom humble business place on uplifting impact that she SMSS of a meal for two, and he kept the other had and continues to compliments of Basil’s $1.25 for himself. have on the students of Bar. He admitted to SMSS. learning a lot about Towards this end, an Remembering Ms. business from ‘Ms. official ceremony was Ferdie’s kindness Ferdie’. However, he held on September 18, at remembered most of all, ‘Ms. Ferdie’s shop.

Donnie Collins, radio the glass of mauby and ‘Ms Ferdie’ is expected personality and past the bread and sausage he to celebrate her 91st student, was among the received for lunch on birthday in October, many to have benefitted Saturdays — which was a however, according to from ‘Ms. Ferdie’s’ luxury for some in those President of SAMPASA benevolence. days.

Ronnie Daniel, it was felt “It was an amazing “That made an impact that she should be thing that an established on my life, I will forever honoured now and not business would extend be grateful to ‘Ms. then. credit to a 12-year-old,” Ferdie’ for the things she “As we look around Ronnie Daniel, Collins recalled, instilled in me,” LaBorde society, we do not do a President of SAMPASA, Past Student Donnie elaborating that when he said. underscored the need to Collins admitted that he good job of celebrating entered SMSS in 1987, the generations before show appreciation now, had much for which to his daily spending money All about people us. There are persons thank ‘Ms. Ferdie’. rather than later.

Dr. Jules Ferdinand, one of ‘Ms. Ferdie’s’ three sons, spoke of his mother being ‘all about service to people’.

And as for the how her sons view her life’s endeavours, Dr. Julian ‘Jules’ Ferdinand, her second son and SMSS past student who is a Management Consultant, Motivational Speaker and Newspaper Columnist, described his mother as an exceptional person — one who has never been driven by material wealth.

“She has always had a soft spot for people, especially those who were disadvantaged,” Dr. Ferdinand said.

He recalled the days when SMSS students flooded his mother’s shop for lunch, and how with very little help she was able to tend to them all and ensure that they got back to school on time.

“She was a mother to many, and was concerned about investing in people,” he added. (DD)

V Orville Haslam OD:

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 13.

Feature

A Table Tennis Caribbean stalwart with close to six decades of unbroken involvement with table tennis in the Caribbean.

Yes, his attachment to the sport dates back to the 1960s.

Rising to be a champion Born in the parish of St Andrews in Jamaica in 1944, he left for England at the age of 8 years, and by 12 was actively involved in table tennis.

He would remain in England and became one of the top ten players in that country — late 1960s to early 1970s.

Orville Haslam OD, has But he never turned his transition from being a champion table tennis player back on the sport in the Caribbean and returned often to a leading administrator of to represent his country in the the sport.

Caribbean Championships and international competitions.

WHENEVER THE NAME Orville In fact, Haslam would ‘Les’ Haslam OD surfaces in the dominate the sport in the Caribbean, the first thing that comes to most persons’ minds is Caribbean between 1967 and 1971, winning: five straight Table Tennis. single titles; 3 mixed doubles And there is no separating the two even up today, for the titles with Monica DeSouza; 3 men’s doubles with Trevor Jamaica-born Haslam, now resident in St, Vincent and the Campbell; and leading his country to team Grenadines, is currently championships through the President of this country’s 1960s and 70s.

Table Tennis Association.

Subject to correction, but Epic battles on the green Haslam could well be one of table very few, if not the only one,

Haslam, that “Haslam hits the ball harder from both sides than anybody I’ve ever seen.”

The thousands who witnessed that match recall the effective use of the ‘loop’

by Haslam, something that he is credited in certain circles for having introduced to the sport in the Caribbean which, at the time, was characterised primarily by smashes and chops.

The measure of the man

Gordon Robinson, writing in the Jamaica Gleaner in July 2012, recalled a feat in 1971 that he thought best described the measure of the man — Orville ‘Les’ Haslam.

Robinson wrote: ‘In 1971, Haslam travelled directly from Kingston’s CAC Games to win the Empire State Open in New York, defeating USA’s top players.”

However, there are others who hold fast to the view that the more fitting testimony of the measure of the man is contained in a story told by USA’s John Ebert, a table tennis enthusiast. Ebert said: “In 1971, despite his status in Jamaica as a sports icon, he (Haslam) shagged balls for the wheelchair players hour after hour, day and night, for two Stories abound about his whole days.” return to Jamaica, where table In recognition of his tennis was always among the outstanding and important leading sports, and his service to his native Jamaica encounters with home grown in the field of sport, Orville table tennis icon - Fuarnado Haslam, who was Jamaica’s Roberts.

Sportsman of the Year in Haslam is said to have 1968, was conferred as a brought “a savage attacking Member of the Order of style and receiving stance Distinction (OD) in 1980. reminiscent of a caged tiger,” He was also listed to match Roberts’ patient, prominently among that defensive style. Try as much country’s top sportspersons of as he did with his extended the 20th century. rallies to frustrate the younger Haslam, Roberts could not Today’s Haslam tame the tiger.

Jamaicans, too, remember Married to Rachel, nee the 1970 duel between Haslam Cyrus, Haslam is the father of three daughters.

David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn, himself and the American #2 player John Tannehill, who is He is also President of the a leading Vincentian-born reported to have said at the SVG Table Tennis Association exponent of the sport, recognizes Orville Haslam for end of a losing showdown with (SVGTTA) since 2017, and has overseen a number of his experience and vision. initiatives in the sport.

He has charted, among others: the SVGTTA Grassroots Development Programme; the Association’s monthly Assessment Development Competitions; and Level 1 Coaching Programmes that include PE teachers, and advanced overseas training for local coaches.

The competition expanse of the Association has been broadened, with not only a Orville Haslam’s tenure as President has seen a focus on the ‘Churches Competition’ to add developmental aspect of the sport.

Orville Haslam (pictured in his playing days) dominated the green table in the Caribbean as a singles, doubles and team player. to the existing National Championships, a Firms Competition and more, but the return of Annual National Primary and Secondary Schools’ Championships And with the assistance of a locally incorporated foundation — Vincy Table Tennis Foundations - there has been an increase in the number of Summer programmes for young persons, and donations of equipment and gear to schools and communities across the state.

Representation at overseas tournaments have also been given priority attention with players participating in individual country tournaments (e.g. Martinique), sub-regional, regional, hemispheric and international championships, the latter to include the Commonwealth Games.

Support for Haslam David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn, who

in the past has represented SVG at major regional and international table tennis tournaments, believes Haslam has made remarkable contributions to Table Tennis in the Caribbean and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in particular.

“I have admired him for his achievements and accomplishment (as a player) in the sport, and believe he is the right person, given his experience and vision, to lead the Association.

“He, however, needs assistance in an effort to make the sport more competitive so as to erase the notion that it’s a recreational sport. And the players need to be educated in the sport so when they retire, they can return as coaches, trainers and administrator so the sports can have continuity,” Llewellyn told THE VINCENTIAN, which is pleased to highlight a Table tennis ‘tiger’ in our midst.

I.B.ALLEN

Orville Halsm in action during his heyday was always an event that attraction wide spectator support.

V SJCM gets lab equipment 14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT THE BROOKLYN, New York-based Marriaqua Secondary School/St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua (MSS/SJCM) Alumni Association of North America, Inc., aims to foster the educational growth of the school, by giving back in every possible way.

Another demonstration of this unfolded on Wednesday, Sept. 16, which marked the school’s 52nd anniversary, when the association presented the institution with much-needed science lab equipment, inclusive of Bunsen burners, voltmeters,

Carolina balance, burettes, copper metal electrodes and microscopes.

“The science equipment was very much needed,” said Science teacher, Nikisha Primus, who also indicated that she no longer needed to find innovative ways to demonstrate certain science processes as she now has the necessary equipment to do so.

The Alumni Association said it was represented at the ceremony by Andre Bailey, who presented the equipment to Sis. Jacintha Wallace, Principal of the school.

Bailey is reported to have urged students to “honour and

Science teacher Nikisha Primus stands beside a Ripple Tank donated to the SJCM by the Brooklyn, New York-based MSSS/SJCM Alumni Association of North America, Inc. (Photo courtesy: MSS/SJCM Alumni Association of North America, Inc. )

cherish the equipment,” ….. reminding them that “the equipment is not just for current students but for future ones as well.”

The Association reported that Sis. Jacintha welcomed the presentation of the science equipment and recognized other donations the Alumni Association has made to the school in the short time that it has been in existence.

The association was formed in March 2018.

Sis. Jacintha indicated that the generosity of the association “reflects the motto

of the school, ‘Caritas’, which means ‘love in service’ in Latin,” the association said.

Acknowledging that fundraising activities have been affected by the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Kenny Browne.

President of the Alumni Association, told THE VINCENTIAN: “We remain very active and find innovative ways to accomplish our goals during this COVID-19 pandemic.”

The association thanked all who supported the organization and looked

forward to their continued support in making other school projects a reality.

In the meantime, Janet Wyllie, Secretary of Alumni Association of North America, Inc., appealed to past students, at home and in the Diaspora, to join in assisting their alma mater.

“It takes a village to enhance the education of our young people; and, these days, it matters more than ever,” she said. “We are looking to broaden our membership enrollment so that our mission and goals can be achieved.”

Melisizwe Brothers assist local sports academy VINCENTIAN-ROOTED, international singing group the Melisizwe Brothers has provided some much needed assistance to a local sports academy here.

Last Monday, the Kenville Horne Sports Academy (KHSA), based in the community of Rose Hall, was the beneficiary of a donation of footballs from the Melisizwe Brothers Gold Mind Initiative.

Kenville Horne, Founder/Director of the KHSA, in giving a background to the donation, said that he had spoken to Mark, one of the Brothers, and other representatives of the group, about the challenges the Academy was facing during

the COVID-19 pandemic.

That discussion produced an understanding of cooperation between the Brothers and the Academy, with the donation of the football being the first demonstration of support from the Brothers.

This is not the Brothers’ first act of philanthropy in SVG. Readers will recall their recent donation of instruments to the RSVG Police Force Band.

Horne said that he was grateful for what he described as “a gracious and timely” donation, and recognized the contribution of Sam Browne, a local representative of the Melisizwe Brothers and Melisizwe Brothers Gold Mind Initiative.

The Gold Mind programmes are aimed to empower others to find and develop their gifts/talents, who in turn will help others forward to find and develop theirs as well.

Browne said at the handing over that the Brothers, having noted “the hard work that Horne is putting in to help the community,…. were very happy to support the worthwhile cause.”

Kerisha St. Hillaire Secretary/Director of the KHSA in expressing thanks, highlighted that the Melisizwe Brothers’ donation demonstrated that despite the group’s fame and success, “they are concerned about the direction of our youth and nation,” and promised that, “We are going to put the assistance to good use.”

(L-R) Kenville Horne (Director KHSA), Kerisha St. Hillaire (Secretary KHSA), Jayshawn Louie (Member of KHSA) and Sam Browne (local representative of the Melisizwe Brothers) at the handing over.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 15.

Regional

Barbados plans to become a Republic

Mottley, the first female prime minister of the island and leader of the Barbados Labour party, is an influential figure in Caribbean politics.

She won a landslide Prime Minister Mia victory in the 2018 Mottley may just have election, giving her penned her most telling party control of all 30 Throne Speech and will seats in the house of now lead her country to assembly. Her party a new constitutional won more than 70% of status. the popular vote, arguably giving her a Governor General Her Barbados will take the mandate to remove the Excellency Dame next logical step toward Queen as head of state Sandra Mason without a referendum. full sovereignty and delivering a groundBarbados would join become a Republic by breaking Throne Dominica, Guyana and the time we celebrate Speech to the second our 55th Anniversary of Trinidad and Tobago if it proceeds with its plan to sitting of the 2008-2023 Independence.” become a Republic.

Parliament of Barbados.

She added, to loud Jamaica has also flagged (Photo Credit: CBC approval by members of such a transition, with Barbados) Parliament, “Barbados recently re-elected prime has developed minister, Andrew BARBADOS WILL PRESS governance structures Holness, saying he ahead with long-running and institutions that wanted to put the plans to become a proposal to “a grand Republic, thereby mark us as what has referendum.” removing the Queen as been described as, ‘the As it is In the head of state. best governed Black Caribbean, the Queen And if plans unfold as society in the remains head of state of expected, this world’. Since Antigua and Barbuda, constitutional change Independence, we the Bahamas, Barbados, will come about by Barbadians have sought Belize, Grenada November 2021.

Jamaica, St Lucia, St News of this intention constantly to improve Kitts and Nevis, St was broached during the our systems of law and governance so as to Vincent and the most recent Throne Grenadines. There has Speech laid ahead of the ensure they best reflect been speculation some second sitting of the our characteristics and countries are waiting for 2008-2023 Parliament of values as a nation.” the succession to spark a Barbados.

The move requires a debate.

Delivering the Speech two-thirds majority in Meanwhile, on September 15, the Parliament, and there Buckingham Palace said Governor General Her are no plans to have a Barbados’s intention to Excellency Dame Sandra remove the Queen as Mason, reading from the referendum, something that is not required in head of state and become speech penned by Barbados’ leader, Prime the constitution but had a Republic was “a matter been previously for the government and Minister Mia Mottley, proposed. people of Barbados”. disclosed: Downing Street, sit of The Barbados prime “The time has come to minister, Mia Mottley, a the Prime Minister, said: fully leave our colonial “It’s a decision for past behind. Barbadians long-standing Barbados and we will want a Barbadian Head republican, quoted a continue to have an warning by Barbados’ of State. This is the enduring partnership.” prime minister, Errol ultimate statement of (Sources: The confidence in who we are Barrow, against Guardian, Barbados and what we are capable “loitering on colonial Today) premises”. of achieving. Hence,

V

16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Let us examine those plans IN HIS ATTEMPT TO HIDE THE evidence of their mismanagement of the economy of this country, Mr. Saboto Caesar, our Minister of Agriculture, has been trying to impress that the reason why we are not benefitting from the trading in bananas has been the loss of the preferential market we had on the British market.

But the farming community knows that the reason has been the gross mismanagement by the ULP administration.

One should not have to remind Mr. Caesar that they promised to revitalize

the banana Industry and at the time when those promises were made, it was known that the marketing regime was going to see changes.

Some of those issues should have been prepared for when we hosted that big International Banana Conference here in 2004. However, the decisions which were taken at that Conference which were to be speedily implemented never came.

In view of what has become of the Industry today one finds it difficult not to agree with those who feel it was a big scam!

* a technologically advance work One of the issues reflecting serious mismanagement was the neglect of the force; ULP government to address * a deep sense of national pride and satisfactorily the issue of BLACK cultural renaissance; SIGATOKA. They remained un* regional integration; responsive for two years before * enhanced global solidarity. attempting to take any remedial The agony burdening the action.

Vincentian society testifies that the aforementioned plans have failed. It is Mr. Saboto Caesar and the CAO imperative that they be critically seemed to enjoy the publicity in the reviewed in a serious examination CUT-BACK operations. It must be remembered that the Government had which would inform us intelligently to determine how we proceed from here. previously undertaken the responsibility for PEST and DISEASE LeRoy Providence CONTROL in the industry. They did not honour that responsibility so they are therefore historically blameable.

But they went one step further.

They, in their insensitivity to societal development, neutralized/crippled the largest farmers’ organization in the land — THE BANANA GROWERS; ASSOCIATION. They effectively crippled the farmers and reduced them to ‘scrunters’.

The records clearly show that Mr. Caesar has been more than disappointing so far in his stint as Minister of Agriculture, particular so, that he represents an area of the state where the people have been traditionally keen on Agriculture.

As we approach the time of elections, we must have serious discussions on several subjects, very important among them is our Agriculture. Recently there was a discussion progrmme on T.V, hosted It is the opinion of the writer that

by Mr. Timothy Antoine, the Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar Governor of the ECCB, and the topic (pictured) cannot escape blame for was ‘HOW DO WE GET OUR the tardiness of his Ministry with PEOPLE TO EAT MORE LOCAL respect to dealing with diseases.

FOOD?’ This is a very important area and I am strongly suggesting the comprehensive examination of three plans, which our administration had proffered some time ago aimed at fostering our development. They are: 1. The Twenty-Point Hundred Days Plan authored by Sabota Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, and Ashley Cain — CAO. 2. The ECCB Stimulation and Growth The tardiness of the Ministry of Agriculture was Plan of 2008. highlighted in the toll the Black Sigatoka took on bananas in SVG. 3. The National Economic and Social Development Plan (NESDP).

And we must bear in mind that the NESDP offered ‘a vision for improving the life for all Vincentians” and was anchored on the achievements of the following over-arching goals: * high and sustained levels of economic growth; * reduced unemployment and poverty levels; * improved physical infrastructure and environmental sustainability; * high levels of human and social development; * a peaceful, safe and secure The National Economic and Social Development Plan - one of the plans nation; recommended for examination.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 17.

V

18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Put them in Family Court Dear George, I AM 23 YEARS OLD with 3 children. It is very hard on me to make ends meet. The children’s fathers are not giving me anything for them although they have very good jobs. Two of them do not want to associate with me in any way, saying that I’m too low class for them. I was not low class when they jumped on me and got me pregnant. I tried to show up at their work place to ask for money, etc., only to be threatened. I am tired of going to bed hungry. Please give me some advice.

Single mother Dear Single mother,

Going to the work places of those two men would only invite unnecessary confrontation and may not end in your favour. You should immediately contact the Family Court and open a file on all three men for child support. You will need to give as much employment information as possible, so that an order can be issued for them up start meeting their financial obligations.

Talk to someone at the social welfare department about the situation and take it from there.

George

Stay positive

that you did not discover this during marriage. who can maintain her. I It is good that you are was hurt. I know one Dear George, keeping positive and day I will get back on my embracing the hope of SINCE COVID-9 I have feet, but for now I’m very one day getting back on been out of work. The job depressed, and honestly your feet. Have a I had was a high paying do not know where to conversation with your turn. job and my girlfriend landlord about your was on top of the world efforts to change your Struggling because if it. She financial situation. lacked nothing. We even Do not hesitate to get Dear Struggling, started a conversation some supportive about getting married. counseling to help clear Unfortunately there Today, among other and reorganize your are those who are in things, I have to deal thoughts. Today and relationships to get what tomorrow are two with an impatient they can from it, i.e. to landlord and I have different days, and push their agenda. found out my girlfriend looking forward to a Your situation did has another man. She brighter tomorrow is flush out your girlfriend, always a good thing. admitted to it when I exposing her true confronted her, saying colours. Be thankful that she needed a man George

Off limits sign flashing Dear George, I AM 35 YEARS old and gainfully employed.

I was attracted by this young lady who also showed interest in me. On our first date, I found out she was a 15-year-old secondary school student.

George, looking at this girl with all her sex appeal, you will swear she is much older!

My problem is although I know her

age, I do not want to let her slip through my fingers. She told me she does not care about my age and begged me to be her sex partner if nothing else. As far as I see, nobody has to know about our involvement.

Between two minds Dear Between two minds, There is a huge off limits sign flashing in front of you but you are choosing to ignore it.

It is not a common sense move to get yourself criminally implicated all because you gave way to your sexual cravings.

Leave this child to complete her high school education and to focus on the rest of her life.

Look for someone in your age bracket with whom you will have more things in common besides sex.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't lend or borrow money or belongings. Be prepared to lose friends or alienate other people if you insist on being stub born. Unexpected bills will leave you a little short.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don't confront the situation if you don't feel you can keep your cool.

Don't reveal anything about your personal life that could be used adversely.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You don't like confrontations at the best of times; however, you may find them difficult to avoid. Efforts made to improve yourself will turn out to your satisfaction.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You may have problems with children.

You're undergoing changes. Look into alternate means of sup porting your financial burdens. It may not be the best day to confront employers or to present your ideas.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Make changes that will enhance your appearance and entice potential partners. You are best to be accommodating for the time being.

Sudden romantic infatuations won't be lasting.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your home environment appears to be a little shaky. You can make successful moves. A romantic dinner, followed by a quiet evening with the one who is enticing you, should be satisfying.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your charm will be captivating. Make amends if you can. You can make new friends and get involved in new hobbies successfully. Don't try to deal with important issues or make changes that will upset the apple cart.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Put your efforts into job advancement.

Use your charm, but don't sign or agree to anything. Don't be too critical.

Don't bend to the pressure.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) This is a great day to start that new health regimen you've been talking about. You mustn't give too much to your children. Uncertain changes regarding your personal life are evident.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Don't volunteer private information about yourself unless you're prepared to be talked about behind your back.

Get more involved in group efforts at work. Your colorful conversation may attract new mates.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You will earn recognition for the work you are doing. Sudden trips may take you by surprise; try to include your mate, mixing business with pleasure.

Your ability to help others will win you points.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation.

Get promises in writing or you will be disappointed. You can purchase items that will enhance your appearance.

ACROSS 1. Bright orb 4. Dated 7. Mom’s guy 10. Musical Clapton 12. Court lovingly 13. Shampoo target 14. Delights 16. With skill 17. Revue scene 18. Bicycle part 20. Knee locale 22. Jury participant 25. Restaurant tab 28. Help in crime 31. Seafood choice 33. Marriage reply:2 wds 34. Sturdy coffee vessel 35. Horse fodder 36. Seek handouts 37. Western casino site 38. Read (over) 39. Hong Kong’s continent 41. Glide on snow 43. Mall business 46. Move slowly 49. Humble chessman 52. Foul-weather garment 55. Go offstage 56. Bible boat 57. Rhinoceros weapon 58. Far from arid 59. Singer Peggy 60. Looked-after critter DOWN 1. Perceive visually 2. Large planters 3. Actor Nolte 4. Hold title to 5. Whole bunch

6. Remedy amount 7. Apply lightly (rouge) 8. Have pain 9. Needing water 11. Refrigerate 13. Abhor 15. Savored ziti or lasagna 19. Likely 21. Recreational competition 23. Reflected sound 24. Bellow 25. Protective mealtime item 26. Mental spark 27. Timber units 29. Sandwich roll 30. Freudian studies 32. Coloring chemical

37. Stadium cheer 38. Nip 40. A contraction 42. Relations 44. Uttered 45. Peel (apples) 47. Hen home 48. Swift hopper 49. Congregation

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 19.

bench 50. Tree-felling tool 51. Sharp humor 53. General Eisenhower, familiarly 54. Blast cause: abbr.

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20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Rivals, Radcliffe into T20 quarter finals

DEFENDING CHAMPIONS FLOW Rivals and FLOW Radcliffe booked quarter finals places in the 2020 SVGCA-Neil Williams T20 Competition, with double victories in last weekend round of matches.

FLOW Rivals had the easier weekend journey first registering an emphatic 111-run victory over Strike Eagles.

Lindon James murdered the Strike Eagles bowlers with a 28-ball innings of 80, and Marcus Castello scored 57 to lead their team to 219 for 4 in their reduced 17 overs. Strike Eagles were then humbled for 108 all out in 13.3 overs, Ozico Williams top scoring with 33 and Deighton Butler, 3/7 and Kemson Strough, 3/21, doing the damage.

The champs then followed up with a 4wicket win over Victors One who laboured to 92 all out in 19.1 overs, thanks to Ray Jordon’s 52. Lindon James turned destroyer with the ball taking 4/11.

Kensley Joseph had 3/16.

FLOW Rivals seemed to struggle to get to 93 for 6 in 16 overs, with a top score of 38 by an unlikely source, seamer Obed McCoy. Luke Wilson bagged 4 for 34.

FLOW Radcliffe’s first weekend win came at the expense of CJ MSDA Jules Anthony Northern

Lindon James turned in winning performances with both bat and ball.

Gidron Pope shows signs of his earlier self with a fine half century.

Stars. Flow Radcliffe ended on 152 for 9 in their allotment of 20 overs, Othneil Lewis 42 and Deron Greaves 33.

Donald Delplesche and Winston Samuel had 3 wickets each for the North Leeward, who were stalled on 137 for 9 at the end of their 20 overs, Asif Hooper accounting for 4/22.

They were then called upon to work hard for their 24-run victory over Keegan’s Bequia XI. FLOW Radcliffe got up to 167 for 7 in 20 overs with half-centuries from Romano Peirre, 57 and Gidron Pope, 54. Chelson Stowe, Lorraine Ollivierre and Jenry Ollivierre each had 2 wickets. Bequia XI

ended on 143 all out in 17.5 overs, Cosmus Hackshaw remained not out on 54. Asif Hooper was again among the wickets taking 3/17.

Keegan’s Bequia XI also went under to Pollard Investments North Windward by 19 runs. Scores: North Windward 171 for 6 in 20 overs — Dean and Shem Browne 69 and 61 respectively, Imran Mack 3/28; Bequia X1 152 for 7, Jenry Ollivierre 45.

Guardian General Saints, who had already secured a quarter final place, finished their preliminary round unbeaten as they registered victories over Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward by 86 runs, and then

Cosmos Hackshw helped himself to a half century even though his Bequia X1 did not have the best of weekends.

Dominic Sutherland Lloyd Lewis Memorial Cricket Team (DSLLMCT) by 171 runs.

Scores in the former: Saints 172 for 9 in 20 overs, Sunil Ambris 42, Devon Williams 3 for 16 and Jemonth Brackin 3 for 22; North Windward 86 all out in 13.5 overs, Jeremy Haywood 3/17, Jeremy Layne 2/7 and Ray Charles 2/22.

Scores in the latter: Saints 262 for 3 in 20, Sunil Ambris 83, Jahiel Walters 68, Rayon Williams 58 not out; DSLLMCT 91 all out in 18 overs, Romel Currency 3/14.

Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN

Tigress, Survivors in weekend wins AN UNBEATEN 71 from Edelyn Turtin led J.G. Tigress to another victory in the ongoing T20 Women’s Cricket Competition. Her innings ensured an emphatic 9-wicket victory over Radcliffe Girls.

Radcliife Girls, on the back of a 108-run 2nd wicket partnership between the evergreen Juliana Nero, 61, and Tray Byron, 40 nor out, reached 134 for 4 in their 20 overs. Isha Williams continued her fine

bowling taking 2/15.

J.G. Tigress’ reply was steady as it was swift and they got to 135 for 1 in 13.3 overs.

In the other weekend match, United Survivors easily dispensed with CJ MSDA Jules Anthony Northern Girls by ten wickets.

The Northern Girls failed again to impress, Edelyn Turtin scored more Juliana Nero’s 65 mustering a mere 55 in was not enough to than half of J.G.Tigress’ 15.5 overs. Kimone ward off her defeat victory innings.

Homer bagged 4 for 15. for Radcliffe Girls.

United Survivors, in without loss. Retired no hurry, used up 7.1 Samantha Lynch was national batter retired overs in getting to 56 left on 28 not out.

Asif Hooper was the weekend’s top bowler with seven wickets across two matches.

Sunil Ambris led the Saints’ batting in each of their two weekend victories.

Child recognized by SVG Umpires Association RETIRED CRICKET UMPIRE DILLON Child is the first umpire to be honoured with Life Membership to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Umpires Association (SVGUA).

The honour was bestowed at the Association’s recent General Meeting.

It was a special occasion for the SVGCUA; it was the Dillon Child - retired first time that it was cricket umpire. according such membership since its inception in 1969.

Dillon Child began his umpiring career in 1979, became a fully qualified umpire in 1983, and retired in 2019.

He umpired at all levels of local cricket as well as in Windward Islands cricket tournaments.

In his acceptance speech, Child expressed his gratitude, adding, “I am honored to be giving a Life Membership by the Association and the first to do so.”

He assured that, “Even though I am not fully involved in umpiring as before, I will always be available to assist the Association where necessary. As it relates to on field umpiring, my main interest now is at the Under-15 level.”

But it was to the area of training that Child committed himself.

“I am fully committed to help to enhance the sport, especially in imparting my knowledge to the younger umpires.”

Child is one of many persons from the sporting community of Sion Hill, who have transitioned to officiating in various sports, cricket not being among the least.

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

Sports

Throws and jumps to get attention

Stories by: I.B.A.ALLEN TEAM ATHLETICS SVG is set to stage a second round of training in field and jump events.

According to Rawlson Morgan, Games Secretary of the Team Athletics SVG and the athletics coach who will conduct the sessions, “ “It’s the second training session in this ongoing programme (and) what we are aiming to do is to try to help athletes brush up on their techniques. Based on what we have seen in past competitions, some of them do not have the correct technique.”

The events which will receive attention are the shot putt, discus, high and triple jumps. There is also a likelihood that the javelin would be included, together with the pole vault, once the facilities are available.

Morgan is encouraged by what he said are athletes who, in the past, have performed well in the field events at the regional level.

“We have the talent here; it’s just about harnessing them and getting them motivated,” Morgan said, adding that he is hoping to identify potential

Rawlson Morgan, athletics coach, is keen on identifying talent in the throws and jumps. field athletes who have been invited to this round of training, which includes A training session for the shot putt in an earlier round of training. athletes from school and colleges.

SVG to stage a series of mini the athletes who will be involved in Plans are afoot by Team Athletics competitions to assess the progress of this round of training.

Playaz Academy: More than Basketball ALTHOUGH THE PLAYAZ Youth Basketball Academy was unable to hold its Annual Summer Camp due to the

Covid-19 pandemic this year, it chose to channel its resources into touching the lives of families across SVG.

Orlando Ferguson — Founder and Head Coach of the Academy - told this publication, “We recognized the need to help the youths particularly in these times as some parents and family members have lost their jobs. The Academy not only focuses on sports but on the holistic development of the nation’s youth, incorporating academics, life skills, mentorship, counseling and President Norlan Allen (4th from right) and his new executive. socialization on

NLSCO gets new president

NORLAN ‘JIMMY’ Allen is the new President of the North Leeward Sports and Cultural Organization (NLSCO).

He was elected when the organization held its annual general meeting last week at the Petit Brodel Secondary School.

Allen, who replaced Royan Murray, will have Elron Lewis, President of the Jules Anthony Sports Club, as his Vice President.

The other members of the executive are:

Nadichia Browne —Secretary; Dereki Pierre — Assistant Secretary; Dwight Roberts —Treasurer; John Williams - Public Relation Officer; Dale Michael - Games Secretary; and Royan Murray, Anthony Sam and Jeffran Whyte Committee Members.

The new President has already begun to prioritise his areas of focus.

“My main focus will be on capacity building.

My plan is to get

training sessions for officials, players, and members,” he posited.

He added, “I will also be working to provide as many opportunities for our players and athletes as can be accessed. We will also be putting much emphasis on fundraising in order to eliminate the debts of the organization.”

And he assured, “I am looking forward to working with all stakeholders to make my tenure a good one.”

and off the court.”

He went on, “The Academy was able to distribute over 90 book bags with school supplies to primary and secondary school students, in keeping with our ongoing drive aimed at fostering Orlando Ferguson (extreme right), wellyouth wishers and some recipients of school development.” bags.

Ferguson is optimistic that the Academy’s outreach to situation with respect to the students possible, Ferguson pandemic will ease, so that a also wished “all the recipients, Summer Camp could be held and all students and teachers next year. generally, the very best in the And in extending thanks to upcoming academic year.” all those who made the

Football action in Stubbs this weekend TWELVE TEAMS ARE registered to compete in the 2020 South East Development Inc. Stubbs Football League, set to kick off this Sunday at the Stubbs Playing Field.

Preliminary competition will be in two zones, each comprised of six teams.

Yoland London, President of the South East Development Inc., assured that the

competition will be played under COVID19 related protocols.

In addition, London said, “We expect a high level of discipline and play from players and management of every team. We also expect an injury free tournament with no incidents caused by spectators or players.

We have not had to deal with any severe issues and hope that continues.”

The President

emphasized, “The Objectives remain the same: to provide the villagers with the opportunity to showcase their talent with the intention of being drafted into clubs and ultimately the national team; and to provide an avenue for entertainment through sport.”

Volcanoes are the defending champions of the Stubbs Football League.

Yoland London, President of the South East Developm ent Inc.

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22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Cycling Union holds classroom sessions

Covid and Peace THE NEW THRUST FOR peace in the Middle East is throwing up some unlikely alliances. It seems that the Covid-19 onslaught has gotten into the heads of many world leaders.

Some of them with an Arab inclination have opted to abandon the cause of their colleagues in a quest to seek the approval and connivance of the Israeli alliance.

So, the trend towards normalising relations with Israel continues afresh. When Egypt and Jordan took the position of establishing ties with Israel that was regarded as pragmatic.

But there is a feeling that the Arab solidarity continues to be weakened, as if they have become overwhelmed by the Israeli military might.

It amounts to an abandonment of the Palestinian quest for not only a homeland, but their cries for dignity.

The Palestinians are damaging their cause with their deep-seated division. So, while there may be resistance to the Israeli occupation, there is a sizeable chunk of the Palestinian population who seem intent on cutting each other’s throat, perhaps more brutally than uniting in the cause of the Palestinian survival.

It is not surprising that the flurry of diploamtic activity is taking place with the backdrop of the US presidential elections looming large.

It seems part of the Donald Trump agenda, which the world has accepted as part of the success of the Israeli lobby.

There is more at stake than the Palestinian issue. So, while the attention of the world has focussed more acutely on the treatment of some sectors of the American population, there is the corresponding factor of the Palestinian

disenfranchisement.

World opinion is swaying away from the Palestinian situation, and everyone is beginning to look at the new reality overlooking the suffering of the people trapped in a besieged place.

There is a sense of world accepted apathy, and there is nothing anyone can do to question Israeli aggression. There is a belief that balancing out the holocaust which saw the extermination of the Jews in 1945, has to be the new world order.

Overlooking violations on the Palestinian people has become the norm, for everyone is keen on overlooking the oppression faced by the Palestinian people, for there is what some Jewish settlers refer to as the ‘price tag’ whereby any action by the Palestinian to ensure their liberty, is greeted by the most extreme display of brutality.

But that is the new normally accepted standards.

The situation has gone beyond normal limits, so that the owner of the Chelsea Football Club, can donate US$100m to an Israeli group which displaces Palestinians.

But that passes off as normal, for the sway on world opinion has weighed so heavily on the Israeli side that there is nothing wrong as long as it is done in the Jewish cause.

There is some biblical mystery about the affair, and not even the most righteous theoretical analysts can come to terms with the Middle East situation.

There is a prophecy about the issue and its revelation is in the unfolding of man’s own image. That will be revealed in the progress of time. For this matter is outside the control of the ordinary citizen, and no one has monopoly of not regarded as proper.

Trevor Bailey, President of the SVG – one of the resource persons.

CYCLISTS UNDER THE aegis of the SVG Cycling Union (SVGCU) will put down bikes two Saturdays in each month for the next two months, and head to the Xpert Computer Centre for classroom sessions.

The first of these session will begin this Saturday from 5pm, when the participants will be involved in two sessions on the topics: Introduction to Cycling, License and Categories of Cycling, Disciplines of Cycling and Cylists’ experience; and Know my bicycle, Attitudes in Cycling, Training, Competition, Off

Season, Sports Nutrition, Feeding during a race and a Fit Bike.

Among the other topics to be covered in the other sessions are Doping in Sports, Rest nd Recovery, Sports Medicine- Understanding Sports Injuries, How to avoid Injury and Ethics in Cycling.

Some of the facilitators of the classroom sessions include President of the SVG Cycling Union Trevor Bailey, Shimano Bailey, Justin Douglas, Peter Durrant and Carva Weekes.

Shimano Bailey, informed that sessions are mainly geared at the young cyclists, most of whom never got the opportunity to learn about the sport from a theoretical perspective.

The sessions, a total of six, are set to conclude in November, will be funded by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee.

Young cyclists Ronaldo Knights (left) and Omar Baptiste will be among the participants who are expected to benefit most from the sessions.

Vincy Heat’s to know opponent by Monday

Vincy Heat, seen here in a practise match at Victoria Park, has remained in training, albeit in accordance with COVID-19 related protocols.

Justin Douglas, General Secretary of the SVGCU, will also serve as a resource person.

Peter Durrant, still active as a Master Cyclist, will bring a hands-on experience to the sessions.

ST VINCENT AND THE Grenadines Senior Men’s Football Team- Vincy Heat, will know their opponents for the CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualifiers, by next Monday, September 28.

The draw takes place in Miami, Florida, USA, from 8pm Eastern Time.

The revamped format was announced earlier this month, after the previous format was scrapped because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The previous format had pitted St Vincent and the Grenadines against Guadeloupe in a home and away tie last March. The winner would have met Haiti last June.

Under the new set-up, there will be an elimination process involving the twelve teams in the Qualifying Phase. The qualifiers will take place at a central

point in the USA, 2nd to 6th July, 2021.

For Monday’s draw, St Vincent and the Grenadines is placed in Pot B, along with French Guiana, Guyana, Bahamas, Guyana ad Montserrat.

Haiti, Guatemala, Trinidad and Tobago, Guadeloupe, Cuba and Bermuda are the preseeded teams.

The twelve teams will be paired, with the six first round winners advancing to Round Two. The three winners of Round Two will gain berths to the Group Stage, where they will join the thirteen teams that have made qualified for that phase.

Already qualified for the prestigious Gold Cup are Canada, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, Grenada, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Panama,

Suriname, the United States of America and guest team- Qatar.

St Vincent and the Grenadines was forced to go the Qualification route after finishing second to Suriname in the Nations League, which took place from September to November, last year.

The Vincentians were in pole position, after gaining an away win and a home draw against Suriname, and home wins versus Dominica and Nicaragua.

However, they faltered in their last match, going under Dominica 1-0.

Apart from a change in the Qualifying Round, CONCACAF has also made alterations to the actual competition, with the teams competing against each other from opposite bracket. This will take place from the Quarter- Final stage.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2020. 23.

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER

25, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.29

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

CANNABIS SHORTAGE AFFECTING PROGRESS purchase. We are being cautious, we do not want WHILE THE APPLICATION to take any chances and PROCESSES that will lead want to make sure that to the qualification of we do it right,” Denniephysicians and Pierre added. pharmacists to prescribe Notwithstanding the and dispense medical time allowed for checks, cannabis are ongoing, the etc., Dennie- Pierre Medicinal Cannabis remained hopeful that Authority (MCA) was the product would be on having some issues with local shelves within the the availability of locally next four weeks. produced cannabis.

Meanwhile, according This was disclosed by to Dr Jerrol Thompson, Fiona Dennie-Pierre, Chief Executive Officer Drug Inspector at the (CEO) of the MCA, some MCA, who said that the 98 local physicians and intention was for pharmacists had received pharmacies to purchase special training in the locally grown cannabis, prescription and but as of right now there dispensing of medical was not enough cannabis, which is a (cannabis) to supply the requirement of the local market.

Medicinal Marijuana “We have made Act, and a prerequisite provisions for limited for their qualification to prescribe and dispense.

However, DenniePierre stressed that it was not an automatic that persons who complete the required training would be given the go ahead to begin supplying to patients.

“They now have to come to us (MCA).

There is a formal application process with them presenting that certification to show that they were trained,” DenniePierre said.

Persons are saying that this has to be the first time To date, five that there is a shortage of locally grown physicians have cannabis/ganja in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

imports, …… until the local industry would have been fully developed where local products would fully be on the market,” DenniePierre said.

And as for the importation of cannabis was concerned, as limited as it might be, the MCA official said that there was no want of interest shown by overseas suppliers from the USA, Canada and Europe.

“We have to find out from them what these products are and we have to do our own background checks that they are coming from a safe source,” she said.

“We are just verifying products until authorizing a license to

already returned their application to become authorized to prescribe medical cannabis and of these five, two have completed the application process and can now prescribe medical cannabis, the MCA official told THE VINCENTIAN. The application process is not yet complete for the other three, she said, and regarding pharmacists, some have already submitted their applications or are in the process of doing so.

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

Dennie- Pierre said that Green Lava Inc. is currently awaiting approval from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Pharmaceutical Council for a pharmaceutical license.

Once that process is complete, they can then apply for a license to dispense medical cannabis.

Fiona Dennie-Pierre, Drug Inspector at the MCA, is hopeful that medicinal cannabis would be available within a few week.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.