FRIDAY,
MARCH 27, 2020
VOLUME 114, No.13
Border cosing? No way! Page 15
www.thevincentian.com
Social distancing ignored Page 28
NIS advance payments Page 3
EC$1.50
COVID-19 Vox Pop Page 13
Blackfish findings Page 22
During an address to the nation on Wednesday 26th March, 2020, Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves shared plans to relieve the strain on Vincentians during this COVID-19 pandemic.
by DAYLE DA SILVA and WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY WITH COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE, St. Vincent and the Grenadines being no except, expected to endure severe economic slowdowns if not meltdowns, this country’s government has outlined a Relief/Recovery/Stimulus package to ease the burden of its citizens. The measures were
announced by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves in a nearly hour-long address last Wednesday (March 25) evening. The estimated cost of the package is put at EC$74.05 million. Sources of this revenue include The World Bank, International Monetary Fund, United Arab Emirates, the East Caribbean Central Bank
and the Contingency Fund of the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Support will also come from local entities to include National Insurance Services, SVG Port Authority, Agricultural Input Warehouse and the East Caribbean Group of Companies. “The Arrowroot Association, Central Water and Sewerage Authority,
VINLEC, Telecom Companies, the Private Sector, workers and trade unions, farmers, fisherfolk, all state employees, and all Vincentians, are expected to play significant roles in our economic recovery,” the Prime Minister indicated.
Banks, etc Among the measures the
Prime Minister listed, was an agreement that will see commercial banks, credit unions and other financial institutions deferring the payment of principal and interest on home mortgages, business loans, personal and consumer loans, and credit cards. “All these financial institutions will further Continued on Page 3.
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2. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
Loan repayment deferral coming
COMMERCIAL BANKS across the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and the ECCU Bankers Association jurisdiction, will facilitate a loan repayment moratorium (a postponement of
repayments) for an initial period of up to six (6) months, with a possible extension upon review. In addition to the deferral of loan repayments, a waiver of late fees and charges will be applicable to eligible
customers during this period. This support programme will be implemented by all member banks in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, and each member bank is
expected to advise its customers of the details and process for the programme. The action came as a result of discussions between the ECCB and the ECCU Bankers Association, and was
described as the institutions’ response to understanding the “anxiety that some customers and residents across the ECCU are experiencing over the loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The institutions recognised that the current situation “is unprecedented,” and “the magnitude of the likely impact on our daily lives.” Continued on Page 14.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 3.
News 3
NISÊ Response to COVID-19: Advance Pension Payments EPIDEMIOLOGISTS suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionate impact on persons over age 60 years with pre-existing conditions. Sadly, our valued pensioners are within this at-risk agecohort and we must do whatever it takes to protect them. Accordingly, the Board of Directors of the National Insurance Services (NIS) have approved an advanced pension payment to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of our pensioners, and to help
them prepare for likely restrictions on opening hours for businesses. As such, the NIS will be making the next two monthly pension payments early. The last fortnightly pension payment was made on March 27, 2020. The next payment will be made on April 3, 2020 for the 4-week period March 30, 2020 to April 25, 2020. This will be followed by a payment on April 30, 2020, which will cover the 4-week period from April 27, 2020 to May 23, 2020. This means that the
pensioners would not receive their normal fortnightly payments on April 10, 2020, April 24, 2020, May 8, 2020 and May 22, 2020, as they would have already received it in advance. The next payment date would be June 5, 2020 when pensioners would receive their usual fortnightly payment.
The rationale for this initiative is as follow: - limit pensioner’s interaction into public places which align with the social distancing
protocols; - minimize the exposure of pensioners to the risk of spreading of COVID-19; - assist pensioners with funds to purchase food, medicine and payment of utility bills before a possible national shutdown/state of emergency; - being responsive to the evolving situation and the direct needs of our pensioners.
Unemployment Relief Programme The objectives of this
emergency programme are to provide temporary replacement income and to protect some working families from falling into poverty, as a result of job losses due to the COVID19 challenges. The programme will be targeted, timely and temporary. EC$2m has been allocated for this programme which will go directly into the hands of hardworking Vincentians during these uncertain times. The programme would run for three months. The NIS also takes this opportunity to remind workers of its
Sickness Benefit Programme that provides a replacement income for qualified insured persons of the following. If you are rendered incapable of work due to illness or are under observation by reason of being a carrier of a disease, or having been in contact with a case of infectious disease including COVID-19, your claim(s) must be supported by a certificate from a medical practitioner or by such evidence as the Director may require for establishing incapacity of insured. (Source: Release from the NIS)
COVID-19 Relief Package Announced as of March 25. Additionally, there will be a arrange specific customised waiver of duty and VAT on packages of electricity for domestic, hotels financing/refinancing for their and guest house consumers clients,” Dr. Gonsalves said. beginning March 20 until June 30. Telecommunications Utilities companies are being asked to provide appropriate relief for Utility companies - VINLEC hotels and business consumers and the Central Water and on the delivery of the range of Sewerage Authority (CWSA) - telecoms services. will not disconnect any customer who is currently not NIS support in arrears not more than two months, for a three-month The National Insurance period starting now. Any Services (NIS) is expected to indebtedness on those bills provide a pre-payment of up to following this period will be two months pension benefits settled as per an agreed to all categories of pensioners, incremental basis over a to facilitate upfront costs of period of two years, the Prime pensioners at this time. Minister continued. The NIS was also expected Any customer who has been to provide EC$1.25 million in in arrears and is currently the form of temporary disconnected, will not be unemployment relief across required to pay the economic sectors for active reconnection fee either to employee registrants. VINLEC or CWSA. A further EC$5 million has Both companies have also been set aside as benefits for agreed to waive the persons not on public reconnection fee effected assistance or in receipt of a within the next three months, pension until December 31. Continued from Front Page.
This is expected to provide support for displaced workers in the hotel and tourism sector, including cruise buses and taxi operators.
Commerce It is expected that the St Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority will engage the business community in respect of granting a measure of relief in respect of certain port charges, with effect from April 2020. This relief is expected to be reflected in prices to consumers. Notwithstanding the above, VAT will be removed on the following items: bleach, disinfectants, liquid hand soaps, hand sanitizers, rubbing alcohol, oral rehydration salts, acetaminophen, hydrogen peroxide, glycerine, soap dispensers, bath soap, toilet paper and paper towels.
Tax ease
The Prime Minister also announced that the Department of Inland Revenue will grant extensions of deadlines for citizens to file their personal income tax returns, payment of motor vehicle licences in respect of vehicles ending with the last digit ‘3’, and for payment by persons paying second halfyear licences for motor vehicles with last digit ‘9’. The extension will also be offered to second quarter 2020 liquor licences. “These deadlines range
between 3 — 4 weeks,” Gonsalves said in his address to the nation on March 25. The Christmas Barrel Programme of reduced duty will be applied from May 01 to August 31. Departure tax for all holders of CARICOM passport, has been reduced by half to US $20 “to facilitate regional travel,” Dr. Gonsalves said, adding that LIAT is expected to benefit in part from an Assistance Plan to be offered by the Caribbean Development Bank.
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4. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
News
Coast Guard officers lauded for bravery by HAYDN HUGGINS LOCAL COAST GUARD Officers Chief Petit Officer Donal Harry and Able Body Seamen, Fitzroy Davis and Sylvanus Henry, have been highly commended for their bravery and skill in a major sea operation last year. The commendation came from Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche during his closing submissions and comments at the sentencing hearing in a major marijuana trial, which concluded at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. Harry was Captain of
a Coast Guard vessel that pursued the yacht ‘Panasea’ from Fancy, on the North Windward Coast of St. Vincent, into the waters of St. Lucia before getting the yacht to comply with an order to stop. The Prosecutor described the chase, which started around 11:35 pm on February 21, 2019 and ended around 12:28 am on February 22, 2019, as ‘hot pursuit’. Thirteen nylon sacks containing several taped packages of marijuana, amounting to 644 pounds, were found in the yacht’s cabin. Marvin Alexander, 42-
year old from Diamond and captain of the yacht, Mark Bristol, 48 of McCarthy and Curton Allen, 40, of Clifton, Union Island were met aboard the yacht, and subsequently charged with: possession with intent to supply; possession for the purpose of drug trafficking; attempting to export; and agreeing with each other to commit the offence of drug trafficking. In his closing submissions on Tuesday, Delpleche said The Treaty establishing the Regional Security system (RSS) allows police
officers to enter the territorial waters of other OECS countries, while in ‘hot pursuit’. According to the Prosecutor, the three Coast Guard officers, in carrying out the operation, had risked their lives in the raging seas to protect this country’s borders, and ought to be commended. The Prosecutor, recounting the evidence, said the officers used the loud hailer and fired warning shots to get the men on the yacht to stop, but they refused to comply. The Coast Guard continued the chase. But
the officers had to resort to jumping into a dingy attached to the moving yacht, climbing aboard the moving boat, and ordering the men to turn around the yacht. They complied. At this point, the yacht was already in the territorial waters of St. Lucia. “One Caribbean, one Senior Prosecutor people, we came on the Adolphus Delpleche is same ship,” Delpleche known to reprimand the quipped, in pointing to law officer when they are tardy and equally open to the Treaty under whose terms the commending them for officers operated. good work.
Ganja: No free Sentences not harsh, but⁄.. for all
WHILE Attorney Grant Connell thinks the sentences handed down on his clients in a major marijuana case on Tuesday were not harsh, and were in keeping with precedence set by the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, he told THE VINCENTIAN he would like to see certain issues related to the conviction, some of which he raised at the trial, tested by a higher court. One such issue relates to marijuana seeds which, though not illegal in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, forms part of the weight of the drugs with which the defendants were charged as having in their possession. Upon conviction of four charges, Mark Bristol, 48, of McCarthy, was sentenced to 4 years, 8 months; Marvin Alexander, 42, of Diamond to 2 years, 8 months, and Curton Allen, 40, of Clifton, Union Island to 1 year, 8 months. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne found the men guilty of possession of 644 pounds of marijuana with intent to supply, possession for the purpose of drug trafficking, attempting to export the drug, and agreeing with each other to commit the offence of drug trafficking. In his closing submissions on Tuesday, Connell argued that the evidence given in Court was at variance with the charges. He noted that the men were charged with being in possession at Fancy, while the evidence presented by the prosecution say they were in the waters of St. Lucia, a different jurisdiction, when the yacht on which they were travelling was intercepted by the local Coast Guard on February 22, 2019. The charges said that on the 22 February 2019 at Fancy in the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, they had in their possession the drugs.
“You can’t be Attorney in St. Lucia and Grant St. Vincent at Connell the same time,” sought to Connell said. He make a case referred to the of different Criminal jurisdictions Procedure Code but did not to support his get his way argument. He with the also noted that Court. the drugs were found on the yacht only after it was taken to the Coast Guard base at Calliaqua. The lawyer further argued that the certificate of analysis revealed that the samples were made up of cannabis, stalks and seeds. However, Connell pointed out that marijuana seeds are not illegal in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Drug Act speaks of cannabis and not seeds. But the Chief Magistrate found the men guilty on all charges, based on the evidence. In relation to Connell’s argument that the evidence was at variance with the charges in respect of where the men were at the time of possession of the drugs, Browne pointed out that though the yacht was stopped in the waters of St Lucia, according to the evidence, the pursuit started at Fancy. (HH)
SENIOR Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche says that, while the conversation on marijuana is changing, the law remains the same in relation to such cases as the one With all the recent in which three men amendments to the law, it were convicted and jailed on Tuesday, for doesn’t give the right to possession, trafficking, “possess ganja attempting to export, arbitrarily”. and conspiracy, in connection with the seizure of 644 pounds of marijuana on February 22, 2019. The Prosecutor, who was commenting on the issue of sentencing, following the men’s conviction on Tuesday, said that the men were found in possession of a large amount of the drug, and recent amendments to the Drug Act in relation to Medical Marijuana, does not allow people to possess the drug arbitrarily. He made it clear, “This is not a free for all.” Mark Bristol, 48, of McCarthy was sentenced to 4 years, 8 months; Marvin Alexander, 42, of Diamond to 2 years, 8 months, and Curton Allen to 1 year, 8 months. (HH)
Another homicide and more CAMPDEN PARK came into focus over the last week or so, all for the wrong reason. Police confirmed this week that they were investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Gamar Robinson, a 31 year old labourer of Campden Park, and that they had recorded the death as the 7th homicide for the year. Robinson is said to have died some time between 8 and 9pm on March 24, 2020. According to a police release, the deceased was met by his mother lying on the porch of his home, in a pool of blood. He was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and was pronounced dead on arrival by the DMO.
Meanwhile, over the weekend preceding Robinson’s death, the Campden Park community was awakened by a sustained release of bullets. Reports are that a minibus that operates within the South Leeward district was plastered with bullets between Saturday night and Sunday morning. According to information received from a very reliable source, the bus ‘Proof’, which serves the Campden Park community in particular, was not transporting passengers at the time of the incident. “The driver bin just reach in he house when the van get shoot up in Coconut Range,” said the source. (KH)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 5.
News
GovÊt strengthening its Leeward profile OPPOSITION MP and vice president of the New Democratic Party St Clair Leacock believes that recent choices by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) are clear indications that it is seeking to strengthen its profile on the Leeward side of the island. Leacock was at the time referencing the choices of the ULP’s North Leeward candidate - Carlos James as Speaker of the House of Assembly, and new South Leeward candidate designate — Dr. Minelva Glasgow as
Deputy Speaker. The governing ULP has eight of the 15 parliamentary seats and the NDP has seven. The ULP has all seven seats on the Windward side and one on the Leeward. The NDP has all three Kingstown seats, the two Grenadines seats and two of the three seats on the Leeward side, the ULP having the middle seat — Central Leeward. James, who was Deputy Speaker and Senator, has replaced lawyer
COVID-19 case said to be recovering THE INDIVIDUAL who tested positive for having the COVID -19 virus, was said to be doing well but was still under observation that will determine whether she should discontinue her isolation. That was the official update given by Chief Medical Officer Dr Simone Keizer-Beache on Wednesday. St Vincent and the Grenadines announced its first case of infection by the coronavirus, March 11. Health officials indicated then that the individual had returned from the United Kingdom on March 7 and was exhibiting mild symptoms that were consistent with what would be seen in most cases of COVID-19. And in another update, Dr KeizerBeache said that they were still awaiting the test results for an individual who was transferred to Kingstown Flu Clinic on March 23. The CMO, however, told THE VINCENTIAN that that individual’s condition had been improving. The Ministry of Health had, on March 23, issued a release which confirmed that an isolation chamber
A portable isolator (isolation chamber) similar to the one used to transport the patient to Kingstown flu clinic. had to be utilized to safely transfer a patient from a private health care facility to the Kingstown flu clinic, for further assessment and management. “While the patient does not meet all of the criteria of the case definition COVID-19 suspect case, out of an abundance of caution, further investigations are being carried out, including the specific COVID-19 test,” the release said. (DD)
Jomo Thomas as Speaker of the House. He officially resigned as senator and was elected Speaker during the sitting of the House yesterday morning. Dr Glasgow was elected as Deputy Speaker at the said sitting. On Wednesday, one day before the election of the new Speaker and Deputy Speaker, Leacock expressed the view that the election of James as the new Speaker signaled a stepping back to the time when Hendrick Alexander served as Speaker. Alexander attracted wide criticisms as he was seen as outright bias towards the ULP he supports. Leacock said that Thomas’ “moving away from the parliament” allowed for the coming to the realizing of his fear of retrogression. And when he appeared on his party’s New Times programme on NICE Radio on Wednesday, Leacock said: “I was always worried that if he moved out, it will make room for others who may take us back to where we were in the previous Speaker’s years.”
MP St. Clair Leacock, his eyes focused on another victory in Central Kingstown, has needled the ULP for seeking to strengthen its presence in the Leeward constituencies. Leacock also said of Thomas: “In the relatively short period he had in the House, he brought much sanity and objectivity.” Thomas did a good job as Speaker, in Leacok’s estimation, but he would have to carry the weight of the “gigantic blunders” — namely his rulings on the No Confidence Motion against the Government and a Motion on the Representation of the People Act brought by the NDP. Thomas was appointed Speaker of the House following the December 2015 general elections. He had contested the South Leeward constituency but lost to the NDP’s incumbent candidate Nigel ‘Nature’ Stephenson.
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6. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
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AA, Air Canada suspend flights into AIA AMERICAN AIRLINES (AA) is expected to have its last service operating between Miami International Airport and St. Vincent’s Argyle International Airport (AIA) next Wednesday, April 1. This follows Air Canada’s previous announcement that it will temporarily suspend flights to the AIA as of yesterday, Thursday 26th March. Both airlines have taken this action as a result of the COVID-19 pademic and the extent to which air transport has been affected across the globe. Air Canada, though, says that it will suspend flights to St Vincent and the Grenadines for at
least one month, but has set May 4 as a possible date for resumption. There has been no similar indication from Amercian Airlines. Regional carrier LIAT has said it is continuing to fly across the region, but has reduced its flight schedule by 40%. The reduced schedule is in response to the decline in travel as well as travel restrictions and border closures imposed by governments of destinations into which LIAT operates, the airline stated. According to the Tourism Authority, in a statement on Wednesday, “The situation is evolving
rapidly, and nonresidents of the United States currently booked to travel are advised to contact their travel agent or airline contact to make the necessary changes to their ticket as they may not be allowed to board.” As of Monday, March 23, all travellers arriving to SVG from the following countries are now required to quarantine for 14 days: Iran, China, South Korea, Italy, United States of America, United Kingdom and European Union Member Countries. All persons with a travel history including countries not listed will
American Airlines followed Air Canada in suspending flights into AIA. only be allowed into SVG, once no symptoms of COVID-19 are exhibited. In addition, upon entering the country, all persons will be issued a card with the COVID-19 hotline number and indicating
that they are required by law to report any symptom, which may develop after entry and during their stay. The Prime Minister also announced that he has given permission to hire between 20 and 25
additional Vincentian nurses to strengthen surveillance, maintenance and management of COVID 19 especially at airports and other ports of entry.
CXC: New Administration Strategy May/June Examinations THE CARIBBEAN EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL® (CXC®) stands in solidarity with the region and the international community as we grapple with the impact of COVID19 on our way of life. During the past two weeks, we have been monitoring developments across the CARICOM region and working closely with representatives from the Ministries of Education and tertiary institutions to arrive at a regional consensus for the administration of May/June 2020 examinations. The Council recognises the impact of COVID-19 on the education system in general and, more specifically, on the schedule of CXC’s regional examinations. Accordingly, the Council has proposed a revised examinations strategy to yield valid grades and minimize the disruption to the education system during these unprecedented times. Consequently, the Council has made the policy decision to offer a modified examination process as follows: 1. Administration of at least one common paper (Multiple Choice Assessments); 2. School Based Assessments (SBAs) and Paper 032s (Alternative to SBA) for private candidates; and, 3. Award final grades based on the moderated SBAs and Multiple Choice Papers. The following are exceptions to the aforementioned process where candidates will be required to complete additional components: • Modern Languages (Spanish, French and Portuguese) • Human and Social Biology • Visual Arts This strategy will employ the e-
The Barbados-based Caribbean Examination Council has acted accordingly in response to the disruption caused by COVID-19. (Credit: Caribbean360) Testing modality (online and offline) in order to reduce the examinations administration processing time resulting in the shortest turn-around time for marking and the release of examination results. In addition, it will provide an opportunity for the timely presentation of grades to facilitate matriculation to higher education or to access employment. This also minimizes disruption to the 2020/2021 academic year. While the proposed revised administration schedule for the May/June 2020 examinations is July 2020, we continue to be guided by national protocols across the region. Students and teachers are encouraged to utilize the CXC Learning Hub — our e-Learning platform that provides learners and instructors with a single access point to multiple resources geared towards exam preparation is available at: learninghub.cxc.org. Rest assured that as the management and staff of the Council continue to monitor the emerging situation, our first priority is the health and well-being of all our stakeholders. (Source: www.cxc.com)
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 7.
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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 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
Do something, do anything (Editor’s Note: This piece was penned before the Prime Minister’s Address to the nation, March 25, 2020. THERE ARE MORE WAYS than one to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. The million dollar question is: Which are right and which are wrong? As it stands, with no vaccine anywhere in the foreseeable future, and with treatment varying from one country to another, given the disparities in adequate human resource, medical supplies, quarantine facilities and appropriate treatments, we are flying blind. There is no joy in our current situation, only trepidation. We are like the pilot who, after he has taken off, comes to the realization that he has no idea where he is headed. Maybe when the flight is over, i.e. when the coronavirus has ceased wreaking havoc in our lives — the pilot will figure out where he was and if at all he was following a correct route. If the truth be told, that’s what life feels like in the disorienting light of the coronavirus pandemic. The virus has spread worldwide, more in some places than others. Along the way, it has sowed confusion, fear and utter uncertainty. Irrespective of all the statements that flow with rapidity from the eager lips of national leaders, whether they be of government, church, business, finance or medicine, the situation remains one of mankind playing in the dark; trying desperately to light a candle even as a gush of wind is likely to race across the room and put spent to that glimmer of hope/light. When the virus has taken its rest — not exit — and the world counts the loss to this 21st century scourge, one of its trailing incisions into the world body of countries, will be its impact on economies large and small. This virus cares nothing about economies of scale; it works its way under the foundation of everything and anything in its
path, causing economies and systems to implode. So, while we might want to ‘boast’ that we are aware of what impacts this virus might bring to bear on our existence, do we know what is to be done about them? Who really can say anything with certainty? The truth is, nothing is certain in the midst of this calamity. Driven to action by the expected economic fallout, governments hasten to put together stimulus measures — aid packages — to offer temporary ease to the inconveniences, discomfort, displacement that will be occasioned by this maelstrom. Whether a stimulus package amounts to $1 trillion or $1 million, the question remains: Is that the right thing to do? Is that the wrong thing? Who can say? The situation calls for action that is one and the same time extraordinary and effective. But what’s both extraordinary and effective? The answer to that could well be not far removed from confronting a Gordian knot. In that light, are we to have some pity for those entrusted with this responsibility? Or do we accept their confessions that they might know from whence they came, but in the uncertainty of the current malaise, they are playing in the dark with what they pray is a glimmer of hope? In the confusion that besets us globally, medical authorities have generally good ideas about how to respond to pandemics. But it seems that government leaders are not close to being on sure footing when addressing the economic effect of a pandemic. All they and everyone else can do is hope their measures ease the economic pain so many of our citizens are already enduring. It remains to be seen just how effective our efforts will be in terms of bringing this virus under control. Some jurisdictions are calling for lockdowns, meaning everyone is required to stay home. We are optimistic. We will not close our borders far less lockdown.
The Statesman and the Politician “IN MY ADOLESCENCE, one of the quips we bandied about related to the difference between Statesman and the politician. The par answer was that the politician concerned himself with the next election, the Statesman with the next generation. Reflecting on the current situation in St. Vincent, I have become convinced of the basic truism of that old saying. The ULP is obsessed with the next election which could be brought forward, and to force this event, the country must be rendered ungovernable, with not a thought spared for the consequent instability, disorder and chaos which could spill over to the next generation. Contrast with the situation in Nevis where a 62% poll in a referendum failed by 4% to realise the 2/3 majority required to bring about secession. Premier Vance Amoury, statesman like, immediately accepted some disappointment while acknowledging that “the people have spoken”. For Amoury, 38% of voters who turned the back on secession, represented “the people” in the particular context. For the provision of the Constitution which he swore to uphold must remain sacrosanct. In civilised society, you play by the rules of the game. Not so with Beache, Gonsalves and company. The rules must be changed midstream to suit their convenience, the goal posts shifted to accommodate the shot wide of the mark. If they were in Amoury’s shoes , bet your bottom dollar that they would have held that there was no magic in 2/3rds majority; that a simple majority was enough, and that if people wanting secession out-numbered those wishing to continue the Federation, that was all that was necessary to give effect to “time for a change”. Indeed, the mural argument would have been advanced: the “No’s” carried the Referendum in the legal books but, morally, the Secessionist won the day. National and international relations cannot be based on such a wishy-washy attitude that lacks certainty and integrity. Happily the ordinary man is not fooled, though some have suspended their judgement blindly. But the scales are slowly but surely falling from their eyes. A man- on-the-street put the question to me quite simply: “Dr John, suppose my cricket team and your cricket team were engaged in a 3- match series; my team won the first and third matches, by one run, and your team won the second match by
100 runs, which team won the series?” When I told him that his team had won two to one, he smilingly replied that in the totally runs, my team had won by 98 runsjust like the ULP had won the popular votes but lost the Government! Yet Beache, Gonsalves and company keep harping on their majority of the popular vote, citing the 55% to 45% ratio like some ritual incantation. In a letter to the press, Douglas Slater has continued down the same road with a convoluted logic. With the passage of time, he may well claim victory in South Leeward constituency by stressing that he won Scott hands down in a plurality of polling stations! I strongly recommend to Slater that he reads the letter “Enough is enough” published in “THE VINCENTIAN” and written by George Richardson, who also hails from Clare Valley, for clarity of thought on the vexed question of the 8 to 7 majority. Gonsalves holds that, owing to the lack of “consent of the Governed”, the NDP cannot legitimately rule. In fact, Gonsalves did one of his clever tricks and sleight of hands in giving a peculiar Party to carry out a definite programme. In this context, NDP has only minority support, but still has the consent of the governed. For “consent of the governed” really means the support of all who subscribe to the political system and constitutional setup by which the government attained power. It does not matter if one did not support the ruling party at the polls once, accepts that there was a free and fair election according to the constitutional prescriptions. As to lack of recognition by the international community, the NDP gave the lie to Gonsalves’ preachments that Owen Arthur and P.J Patterson, among others had been holding back. In fact, they all signified their backing in a matter of days Kenny Anthony’s recognition received on June 16, the very next day following the 8 to 7 result. Further, the flamboyant St Lucian Foreign Minister, George Odlum made a Continued on Page 26.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 9.
Letters
Are we testing? NEVER in my lifetime, and I guess in the lifetime of many, many others, has there been a threat to mankind like what COVID-19 poses. I mean, how many of us have lived through a phenomenon that not only has the potential to kill, but will reap havoc on economies large and small, disrupt systems of all kinds and, to put it mildly, disrupt everyday life to the extent of causing marital discord where previously there might have been none. COVID-19 has shown us that, notwithstanding the great advances in science and technology, there will always be something somewhere in the future, that puts our very existence to the test. Now as it relates to our St. Vincent and the Grenadines, our health personnel are bending backwards to encourage us to practise safe hygiene and what is now known as social distancing, i.e. keeping your distance. All of that is good. But, I wonder if we are doing enough. I know that we do not have the means to test for the coronavirus; but we, like many other OECS countries with the exception of Dominica, have the facility at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) at our disposal. The question is, are we testing at all? From where I stand, it appears that testing is only done on patients who present symptoms, and through whatever contact traces are done, only those who appear to have symptoms will be quarantined. All others with some exposure to territories already infected, are encouraged to selfisolate. I suppose one of the reasons we might be avoiding testing, is because we do not yet have an equipped quarantine centre. But against this, I am worried when I am made to understand that the asymptomatic (people who do not show any symptoms), the pre-symptomatic (people who are yet to show symptoms) and the mildly symptomatic (people who show symptoms but not severely), could all be spreading the virus. And I am further worried by what I will repeat here but which I in all reason find hard to accept, that others who might have been to places where there are known cases of the virus, have not been tested on their return to SVG. And this includes the Prime Minister, I have been told. We have to do but one thing if we are to beat this virus: We must adhere to the directives of our health officials. Gladtone, P
Shameful behaviour DURING this past week, I was shown a selection of photographs taken at the site of the fatal road accident at Questelles, these photographs being shown/distributed on social media. To my utmost disgust and loathing, one of these photographs showed graphic details of the victim at the scene of the accident. I find it totally reprehensible that some cretinous, moronic
individual would have the total lack of compassion and undertake such actions. At the end of the day, this young lady was someone’s Daughter, Sister and Mother, and the tragic ending of her life deserves a lot more compassion than this morally bankrupt person has shown. I do not know if technology is available to trace the imbecile who posted these
A. W. Indupp.
Beauty and the beast ENGLISH Language (76% pass rate for CSEC 2019) is a Beauty. From the early years, nursery rhymes, poetry, songs, stories, plays, choral speaking, drama, and dance, all reinforced our concept and understanding of the English Language. Mathematics (33% pass rate for CSEC 2019), on the other hand, is the Beast. If you were good at it, you were a genius. This myth is believed today, to the detriment of our students, and they may grow with a fear of Mathematics. However, is this fear a product of nurture rather than nature? The old system of Teacher Training involved entry-level teachers directly supervised by the Head Teacher. They had to attend classes and take a series of progressive tests, and if they failed twice, these Pupil
Teachers had to drop out of the system. In the new system, Yes Workers, Set Workers, and even Teacher 1 and Teacher 11 and higher, enter the system without the minimum requirement of a pass in Mathematics at the CSEC level. These teachers may be required to teach the fundamentals of Mathematics, when they have not mastered the subject at the High School Level, and are not required to be actively pursuing studies in the area. No one is holding them accountable, but our students are left at the mercy of their feet nurturing the Beast of Mathematics. Teachers who find themselves with inadequate preparation in Mathematics, can prepare themselves on their own, using available resources, then write CSEC Mathematics
Looking at the mediaÊs responsibility THE MEDIA play a very important role in any country. They can break or make any administration and likewise create fear or encouragement. Sadly, but true, many of these (media) entities are irresponsible, sometimes dishonest and tainted with political agendas. But, now that the COVID- 19 is upon us here in SVG and the world at large, this is a time when the media are playing an important role. Thankfully, much information is disseminated as to what is happening worldwide. We are generally well informed. Social media, though, is a popular tool used by many to bring fear and misinformation to
photographs; but if it is, then the appropriate authorities should do their utmost to track this person down and prosecute them to the fullest extent. Just as if they were posting child pornography. What sort of society are we creating here in SVG, when mindless halfwits take this type of action????
the public, creating what we call fake news. Besides the COVID-19, there are other issues on which the media continues to disseminate information, some of which is true and some not so. Even in reporting of incidents or accidents and events, sometimes we don’t receive reliable information. I must, however, compliment those media houses who give factual information and who are trustworthy. On radio, which attracts a large listenership, many times the issues are not dealt with in a mature and balanced way, but instead are tainted with politics and sometimes a personal agenda. It is time we lift our
game and look at things independently and free from our personal agendas. Let us use the media for good and not for negativity. Of course, there are times when criticism has to be made; but then, give constructive criticism and not the pull down and slander. I call upon the media to be responsible and give accurate information. Also, let us as a people seek to educate and uplift each other. By doing so, we would not be divided but united. Let the media play its part and be the instrument for education, encouragement, information and national development. Kennard King
every time it is offered until they record a pass in the subject area. The SVGTU two-week InService Teacher Training programme may need to offer Mathematics in the content area, for those teachers who need it. Some countries require teachers to take courses every year to maintain their teaching licence.
We may pursue this one option. Whether it is the individual teacher, the Head Teacher, or the policy makers, action is required to tame the Beast of Mathematics if we are to move the subject from its 1/3 pass rate at the CSEC level. Anthony Stewart, PhD
COVID-19 is a sign Is coronavirus (COVID19) a sign of the end of this world’s political and religious system? A global big yes! “For nation shall rise up against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrow”, (Matt. 24: 7-7). “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations.” (Matthew 28:14). Isaiah 24 gives us a picture of the world’s condition as it is today. “The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard.” V.20. “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall punish the host of the high ones…. And the kings (political leaders) of the earth upon the earth”. V. 21. “And they (political leaders) shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison”. V. 22. Our God shall punish all world leaders, big and small, for destroying His laws and replacing them with same sex and other exploitative and oppressive laws. The
religious leaders are in the same ship with the world’s political leaders. Woe be unto the shepherds that mislead the flock. What will happen after this punishment/judgement? “And God shall wipe away all tears from our eyes; and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain….the former things are passed away” (Rev. 21:4). Verse 3 said, “…the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God (our political and spiritual king). His global laws shall govern His people).” Thy kingdom come. COVID-19 is truly a sign of the end as mentioned in Matt. 24:7 as pestilence. This virus is unique and can affect your lungs and airways. The best protective measures are to strengthen your immune system and keep clean in body and mind. Wash all cloth after mingling with the public and seek the Kingdom of God. Christian Democrat
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10. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN
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Health and wellness
Excerpts from the 2020 Budget Address
Bipartisan approach needed to manage crisis
Introduction Health and wellness HEALTH REMAINS at the forefront of the minds of our government and the Vincentian public. This year the Government has increased healthcare spending every year that it has been in office. From $50.6 million in 2001, this Government will spend $103.7 million in 2020. From 66 doctors, we now employ 113. From 526 nurses, we now have 678. We spent $6.9 million on medicine, now we spend $15.4 million. Our commitment to the national healthcare apparatus is tangible. In 2019, as promised in last year’s budget, the Government opened two topclass clinics in Buccament and Chateaubelair. The Government also refurbished and reopened the Levi Latham Health Centre in Mesopotamia. Coupled with the world-class Modern Medical Complex in Georgetown, now in its second year of operations, these facilities represent an unparalleled advance in the quality of our healthcare infrastructure and a welcome decentralization of primary health services. The MMDC The Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre (MMDC) continues to expand the Healthcare services offered to Vincentians. In 2019, its accident and emergency division received 10,169 visits, and an additional 3,870 visits from non-emergency patients, like those seeking oncology, ophthalmology, gastroenterology and nephrology services. The Outpatient department saw an additional 3,000 visitors. Staff at the Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre performed 974 surgical procedures, administered 5,869 X-rays, 5,587 ultrasounds, 1,100 EKGs and conducted 125 chemotherapy sessions. The Pharmacy Department in Georgetown filled 10,578 prescriptions. Visiting medical missions from our generous friends in Taiwan and Palestine provided cardiology and acupuncture services, repaired hernias and performed testicular surgeries to the benefit of over 150 patients. As predicted in the 2019 Budget Speech, all of these numbers represent increases over the 2018 data. The Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre continues to grow and expand its services to our people. The A&E at MMDC now sees about 50% as many patients as that of the MCMH. While the A&E at MMDC is visited roughly 850 times per month, the department at MCMH receives approximately 1,700 monthly patients. Similarly, MMDC performs, on average, 80 surgeries per month, compared with over 200 at the MCMH.
were seen by a doctor. The Polyclinic dealt with 359 casualties, welcomed 143 visits for diabetes and hypertensive care, and saw hundreds more visits for family planning services, pap smears, and pre- and post-natal care. One baby was also born at the Polyclinic. The Chateaubelair Smart Hospital, in turn, saw 4,745 casualties, admitted 112 for further care, delivered seven babies, and referred 169 patients to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in the nine months since its opening. The residents of the North Leeward District now enjoy vastly improved, 24-hour, primary care service. In sum, these new facilities in Georgetown, Buccament, Mesopotamia and Chateaubelair received well over 30,000 visits in 2019. Prior to 2019, many of those visitors would have taken the long trip to Kingstown to cram themselves into the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. Worse, many of them may have decided to delay or forego medical care altogether. By taking quality primary healthcare to the people, we are making a healthier Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Budget 2020 continues the Government’s focus on improving the quality of our clinics and the medical care offered in all corners of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Following on the heels of last year’s $6.5 million investment in school repairs, Budget 2020 will spend $7.8 million on refurbishing, equipping and upgrading medical facilities in Barrouallie, Bequia, Buccament, Calliaqua, Cedars, Chateaubelair, Clare Valley, Georgetown, Greiggs, Mayreau, Sandy Bay, Sion Hill, Stubbs and Union Island. An additional $1 million will be spent to upgrade the outpatient clinic at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. This $8.8 million is an unprecedented investment in the quality of existing medical facilities, and further evidence of the Government’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of all Vincentians. The Acute Referral Hospital
Last year’s budget speech discussed the Government’s progress in constructing a 140-bed acute referral hospital at the site of the decommissioned ET Joshua Airport in Arnos Vale. The renowned global architectural firms of Pinearq and Mallol Arquitectos, of Spain and Panama, respectively, were hired to complete the designs for the hospital. Pinearq and Mallol have extensive experience in designing medical facilities throughout Europe and Latin America. To date, structural designs have been submitted, and the mechanical, electrical and plumbing New Facilities designs are nearing completion. All final designs will be submitted in March The recently-opened Levi Latham 2020. The Government is finalising Health Complex, Buccament Polyclinic and Chateaubelair Smart Hospital have funding arrangements for the construction of this facility, and expects significantly expanded the reach and scope of medical care. The Levi Latham to begin construction in 2021. As discussed elsewhere in this Health Complex was operational for the Address, the Government is proud of its last eight months of 2019, and saw decision to relocate the residents of the 1,843 cases at its accident and emergency unit. Levi Latham welcomed Lewis Punnett Home from their 1,073 visits to the 37 sessions held with unsatisfactory accommodations in Glen. The $3 million temporary facility is the District Medical Officer in 2019. Additionally, 344 Children were seen for superior to the former Lewis Punnett child health sessions and three children Home in every respect. However, it is only a temporary home. Budget 2020 were delivered at the facility. The Hospital at the Health Complex had 309 allocates $400,000 for the demolition and design of a new Lewis Punnett admissions. Home at its original location. We look The Buccament Polyclinic was forward to welcoming those residents to similarly busy. At this new facility, in a new first class facility in East Saint operation for the last seven months of 2019, there were 4,230 clinic visits that George in the coming years.
THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY is deeply concerned with the cavalier approach of the Unity Labour Party government in managing COVID-19. We are demanding that the government implement stricter measures to reduce the spread of the virus. In his press conference in February, Dr. Friday questioned the government’s preparedness to deal with the COVID-19. Dr. Friday said, “There is great public concern about the Corona Virus, the potential risks it poses and our country’s level of preparedness to deal with them. The alarm was initially raised when a cruise ship was allowed to dock at Kingstown but was not permitted to dock in other Caribbean ports as a precautionary measure. We have also heard that at least 17 persons have been placed under quarantine as a measure to guard against potential spread of the virus. The international alarm caused by the crisis, the mounting death toll in China is good reasons for us to be extremely cautious in relation to this matter, and to take every reasonable precaution to protect the public. The health officials must keep the public constantly informed about any new developments and about the measures that are implemented to prevent the virus from becoming a health problem in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Information is key to prevent speculation and panic among our people. The Government needs to do a better job of informing the public and preparing for any appearance of the virus here.” So far, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has recorded one confirmed case of COVID-19, but the government has been sending mixed messages to its citizens. For instance, the Ministry of Health has advised Vincentians to practise social distancing and reduce public gatherings to twenty-five (25) persons or less, but the government has not complied. Instead, the Prime Minister and other government officials were seen in a gathering with more than twenty-five (25) persons on Union Island on Monday 23rd March. However, Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Godwin Friday, has written to Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on Saturday 21st March, about the COVID-19 crisis.
political partisanship as we deal with this existential crisis. There are actions we can take to allay fears and constructively foster an atmosphere of calm among our citizenry even as we protect against the spread of the coronavirus in SVG. I recommend the following measures, among others that may become necessary as this crisis unfolds, that we can take and which I hope to discuss further in a meeting with you. * The Ministry of Health has informed us that the single confirmed COVID-19 case in SVG has been managed to prevent the risk of community spread. To protect us further against spread of infection, we must take steps immediately to prevent importation of the coronavirus. This requires closing our seaports and airports immediately to restrict travel in and out of SVG for all but absolutely essential travel and trade in necessary supplies. This includes closing our ports to cruise ships, yachts and other pleasure crafts for a period of time to be determined after further deliberation. * Stricter social distancing controls and guidelines must be advocated publicly and enforced as best we can. All public gatherings should be discouraged and reduced to only what are necessary to maintain essential public services and promote public health. * Ensure that water is available to all people throughout SVG so that they can comply with the recommended personal hygiene practices * Urgently enable testing for the coronavirus in SVG and begin widespread testing. Priority should be given to those who come into contact with persons who have tested positive for the coronavirus or are suspected of being infected with it. Waiting for symptoms to show before testing is a risky approach that may create more harm. * Explain to the nation what to expect in a worst-case scenario of the spread of the coronavirus in SVG, and how government services (especially health services), businesses, transport services and individuals are expected to respond. The participation of seasoned medical, public health and other personnel with related expertise drawn from both civil society and the Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s letter to government service should be enlisted Dr. Gonsalves in this effort. * I am heartened by the “As Leader of the Opposition and declarations of the government’s President of the New Democratic intention and regional efforts to Party, I have a responsibility to put the national interests before partisan develop measures to cushion the political interests and to work for the economic disruption and financial common good. In times of crisis in our hardship that will result from the COVID-19 pandemic. The country, this principle rises to involvement of businesses, financial paramount importance. I have repeatedly called on our government, institutions, trade unions and the Opposition, is essential to this civil society organizations and planning process and the successful individuals to acknowledge our implementation of our ongoing present condition and work together response. Therefore, I urge that there for the good of all. I renew that call here today. We in be consultation with them. The Members of the Opposition are the Opposition offer our assistance available to meet appropriately with and commitment to do whatever we you and with other members of the can to assist the government and government and public institutions to nation to confront and overcome this most serious threat. Prime Minister, I discuss our recommendations further and plan on an ongoing basis for the urge that you accept this genuine implementation of a national response offer of cooperation in the spirit to this unprecedented crisis”. intended, and that we put aside
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 11.
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Glee, Glitter, Guilt and Grace (Pt 2)
Cuba answers yet again
“Guilt is a poisonous illusion. Many languages don’t even have a word for guilt. Sure, we all feel it. But we also get to decide if we’re going to let guilt bring us down or not. Acknowledge the feelings, and then give yourself permission to let them go.” – Kris Carr (born August 1971) - New York Times and #1 Amazon best-selling author, wellness activist, and cancer survivor.
THE MOST DEFINING STORY of this Corona Virus (Covid 19) pandemic is not the sad tale of hundreds of thousands of persons who are afflicted with this dreaded disease, not the horrific news that thousands are dead, and more will die. It is not the earthshattering rearrangement of every aspect of human life on this planet in the last few weeks, or the incompetence and ineptitude of the American regime led by Donald Trump and Mike Pence. Those are imposing stories, but they all pale in comparison to a bright beacon, a point of light and hope in this dark world of pain and suffering. The story that should remain etched in people’s consciousness, long after this pandemic is conquered, is the calm, stoic resolve and response of the revolutionary leadership of Cuba to the spread of this frightening killer disease. Cuba, a country known for its honesty and transparency, in tackling difficult problems, has announced few cases of the virus. Based on its history and practice, Cubans are guaranteed and can deliver excellent care. That’s a given. What is also true, but gets insufficient coverage, is the fact when the world grieves and needs assistance to tackle problems large and small, earthquakes in Pakistan or Iran, Ebola in West Africa, or personnel to staff a medical diagnostic center in our country, Cuba willingly answers the call. And so, it is with this Covid 19 pandemic. Cuba has aided Argentina, Antigua, Brazil, China, Grenada, Italy, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Peru, St Lucia, SVG and Venezuela. We can expect the list to grow as the disease continues its death march across the globe. ‘This moment calls for the setting aside of political differences to focus on facing the emergency and its serious consequences’, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said. ‘Each country can and should contribute with what is in its reach. The pandemic does not respect borders or ideologues. To meet such a serious challenge, we must join forces and support each other. We are motivated by the solidarity values that characterizes Cuba, including the promise of sharing what we have, even if it is scarce.’ Contrast this attitude with the pompous, idiotic comments that comes from the American president each day. Worse, the American government is pressuring some countries to refuse Cuba’s offer of assistance. We hope that those who neglect the needs of their people and bend to such immoral and unethical pressures and bullying, pay a huge political price for their willful ignorance. A few things are worth remembering about Cuba. It is a small, resource starved country that has been forced to exist, since the Fidel Castro revolution overthrew Batista the American puppet leader, and embarked on a noncapitalist, revolutionary path of development. It has not been an easy road. For close to 6 decades, the country has been pressured, attacked, smeared and blockaded by some of the most powerful governments in the World. However, the revolution has survived primarily because of the discipline and determination of the Cuban people whose leaders have been through the fires of struggle and resistance. Against the odds, the Cuban revolution has grown to become a medical power, just as Fidel Castro
LAST WEEK’S ESSAY (PART 1 OF 2) focused primarily on the pursuit of life’s glee and the glitter. We were reminded that while it was normal/natural to pursue joy, happiness, and the various material things and accomplishments that generate positive feelings, we should seek to procure these through honest means. Unfortunately, some citizens choose dishonest or unethical methods. This may result in such individuals being burdened by guilt. However, even in such circumstances all is not lost. Forgiveness is possible. This week’s essay reminds readers of this reality. What is guilt? Nathaniel Branden (1930-2014), a Canadian—American psychotherapist and writer known for his work in the psychology of selfesteem, describes guilt as moral selfreproach. He advocates that the individual who is burdened by guilt realizes that they had done wrong when it was possible to have done otherwise. We all experience such “pangs of conscience” from time to time. The healthy employee who calls in sick because they “need to use up their allocated sick days,” may experience feelings of guilt. The student who cheats on an examination or has someone do their assignment in an effort to obtain a good grade, may subsequently experience that feeling of shame, guilt, embarrassment, or regret. The cheating spouse, regardless of how well he or she tries to justify the escapade, may also be burdened down with guilt. The drug pusher, the drug user, those who have had abortions, and so many others, can be added to the list of individuals whose consciences can be pricked by memories of actions considered to be wrong. Several decades ago, a Canadian Catholic priest, Father Mac, loaned me a small yellow book that contained commentaries about the formation of conscience. The writer(s) highlighted the fact that we do not all develop the same sensitivities of conscience. So much depends on how we are socialized. One individual could grow up in a society or sub-culture where it is acceptable (right) to steal if, for example, the act is performed to provide food for the children in the particular household. Such an individual will therefore appear not to be bothered by pangs of guilt when they perform or observe such acts of theft. They could so very easily rationalize an activity that is otherwise perceived to be wrong. In such a case, the feeling of guilt may be minimal or non-existent. In the same society, but in a different household, the same activity would be condemned and the perpetrators considered to be dishonest and immoral. The individual engaged in such an act will understandably be burdened by a strong sense of guilt. The details captured in the foregoing paragraph remind us that
the feelings of guilt for what is perceived to be wrong, can be classified as “relative”; what is termed wrong for one individual may be perceived as acceptable by another. And while society seeks to provide general standards of behavior, individuals will differ in relation to what is perceived as right or wrong. Feeling of guilt, therefore, will vary depending on how we are socialized. The example of King Leopold II of Belgium (1835-1909) readily comes to mind. He ruled Belgium from 1865 to 1909 and established Belgium as a colonial power in Africa. During the late 1800s, as many European countries were laying claim to segments of Africa, King Leopold II, keen to establish Belgium as an imperial power, laid claim to the Congo River basin, making possible the formation in 1885 of the Congo Free State. He is best known for the widespread atrocities that were carried out under his rule. He had little or no regard for the Africans in the Congo and, as a result of his rule, as many as 10 million people died in the Congo Free State and millions were mutilated. It would appear as though he felt little or no guilt in using the wealth of the Congo to develop the modern Belgian state. The ends appeared to have justified the means — a sad reminder that individuals may look like us but they do not think like us; a situation that generates guilt in one individual may not have a similar impact on another. But there is another example from history that beckons to be featured. The life of John Newton (1725-1807) gives us hope in the possibility of forgiveness and the receipt of God’s grace even after we have done what may be perceived to be immense wrong. He, like many young English men of his day, had a passion for the sea and sailing. History records that he was forced to serve as a sailor in the Royal Navy. He subsequently became the captain of slave ships and is known to have transported thousands of African slaves from West Africa to the New World. However, after experiencing a period of Christian conversion, Newton renounced his trade, became an Anglican clergyman and a prominent supporter of abolitionism. We are told that he experienced bouts of depression and intense guilt for the role that he had played in the slave trade. Emerging from these reflections and the realization that God’s grace was sufficient to wipe his sins and guilt away, he wrote the now world famous hymn, “Amazing Grace”. We can all be encouraged by the example of John Newton’s life. We realise that an exciting and inspiring future awaits us beyond the guilt, doubt, shame, fear, insecurity, and heaviness of the past. We need not be burdened down by these. We can move beyond the glee, glitter, and guilt to embrace God’s grace and beam forth the joy and blessing that come from being forgiven. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
predicted it will be in a speech in 1985. More than 30 years ago, the Cuban medical facility created interferon, the cancer fighting drug. Currently, a variant of that drug is proving to be an effective battle against Covid 19. People need to stop and think for a moment. Here’s this Caribbean country, one of the smallest nations on earth, offering critically important medical assistance to China, a country with the second largest economy on earth. It was a beautiful sight to behold as Cuban doctors and nurses landed in Italy, to wild and prolonged cheers. Since the triumph of the Cuba Revolution, over 400,000 medical personnel went to the aid and assistance of people in 164 countries. These doctors and nurses offer selfless professional assistance. They work in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. They seldom complain. Their genuine love and self- sacrifice for the people they serve, and for humanity, shine brightly. We seldom stop to think why Cuba has been able to do all that it has done with so little. Why this wonderful story of help and assistance does not come from Argentina or Dominican Republic, France or the Czech Republic, Egypt or South Africa, Taiwan or the Malaysia, all countries with more resources than Cuba? If you listen to the establishment media, BBC, CNN, MSNBC, Reuters, New York Times, we are reminded of the untold suffering faced by the citizens of Cuba. We never stop to ask why would a ‘brutal government’ invest in the education, health and welfare of its population? Why do respected international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations Educational and Scientific and Cultural organization (UNESCO) credit Cuba with exceptional performance in the field of health and education? The truth lies in these simple facts. Cuba made a revolution more than 60 years ago. Its leadership resolved not to get rich and arrogant or continue with business as usual. The revolution took on the difficult, but doable task to lift all its citizens and imbue them with pride. They committed to transform the Cuban society for the better. Consequently, the hopelessness and helplessness which characterize the lives of so many of the world peoples, including many Vincentians, do not find that stark expression in Cuba. This is a country with real problems, but a country nonetheless that works to solve its problems to improve the lives and existence not just of Cubans, but the lives of anyone, anywhere who calls. Imagine then what other strides our brothers and sisters in Cuba could have made, would be making, had it not been for the criminal, illegal blockage of Cuba by the powerful, arrogant and influential United States of America. The American blockage has robbed the Cuban economy of more than US$200 billion. If Cuba does so much with so little, consider how much more can be done if given the chance to develop freely and independently without the attempts to deform, derail and destroy its transformative revolutionary process.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
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12. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN
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Put VincentiansÊ lives before all others
economic policies badly needed in this moment of crisis. If we had our own central bank, we could institute the expansionary monetary policies our THE ULP REGIME wants to encourage regime really care about Vincentians’ duty exemptions given to the superintra-regional travel as a means of lives? rich foreigners of Mustique, under the country needs in this time of crisis too. The ULP regime is saying that dampening the impact of COVID-19 on As we said last week, we must Mustique Act No 48 of 2002, and CARICOM economies, and toward this protect our people from this Canouan, and impose a windfall tax on COVID-19 will hit tourism hard, but tourism is virtually dead in SVG end, has proposed halving the departure coronavirus outbreak. We do not have Taiwan. This will give SVG a anyway. The net income from tourism tax. an extensive, world-class health massive amount of revenue - EC$3 is minimal. This is a dangerous strategy that system in SVG, and most people do not billion - to create economic growth in The focus now should be keeping puts the lives of Vincentians at risk. have the financial ability to fly abroad SVG. While most countries all over the to seek medical treatment as Now, more than ever, is the time to Vincentians safe and well, not focusing world are closing their borders to Gonsalves does, so perhaps our start taxing Taiwan and the super-rich on tourism and welcoming foreigners and increasing the chances of foreigners, the ULP regime wants to country should go in to a lockdown by in Mustique and Canouan. As coronavirus being brought into the keep SVG’s borders open and welcome closing the borders to foreigners. economic activity shrinks all over the country. All hospital and medical fees foreigners. This would increase the If the ULP regime is really world, it is essential that the foreand taxes should be abolished. risk of the coronavirus being brought concerned about the economy during mentioned taxes are introduced now. Any supplementary budget, or in to our country. this pandemic of coronavirus and They pose no increased risks to The ULP regime wants to encourage COVID—19, then the easiest and Vincentians’ health, and is much safer supplementary estimates, in response to the impact of COVID-19 should tourism to SVG. This plan is very quickest thing to do, is to tax Taiwan than the ULP regime’s proposal of risky and endangers the lives of and the super-rich foreigners of encouraging intra-regional travel and include abolishing the tax and customs duty exemptions given to the Vincentians. There would be less need Mustique and Canouan. This would keeping SVG’s borders open to foreigners in Mustique and Canouan, to worry about the economy now, if the not increase the risks of Vincentians foreigners. and imposing a windfall tax on ULP regime had looked after the getting the coronavirus, whilst at the More tourism now is not the Taiwan. This will give SVG a massive economy better during their time in same time providing stability to the answer, and it is a high risk to amount of revenue - EC$3 billion — to power. SVG economy. Vincentians’ lives. Saving Vincentians’ lives should be Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal fight the effects of coronavirus. It is time to put Vincentians lives the priority now, not welcoming BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, makes a believes that with a windfall tax of before satisfying the desires of Taiwan foreigners in a bid to raise a few strong and passionate call for the ULP EC$3 billion, our country could and the supoer-rich in Mustique and dollars in tourism. Does the ULP regime to abolish the tax and customs institute the expansionary fiscal and Canouan.
Coronavirus threat: Bishop urges Methodists to Âlook to GodÊ AS HUMANKIND grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bishop of the Methodist Church in the Southern Caribbean, Reverend Derick Richards is urging Methodists in this time of darkness, to look to God and remember His promise to never leave us or forsake us. “In seasons of uncertainty, we have
the hope of God’s presence. We often feel a sense of overwhelming loneliness and isolation, especially nowadays with social distancing. But be assured of the presence of God during this time of uncertainty, God will not forsake us or leave us,” the Bishop preached to an online audience of over 3,000 viewers from around the world, who joined to
Reverend Derrick Richards, Bishop of the Methodist Church in the Southern Caribbean.
worship on the church’s YouTube channel, this past Sunday. The Bishop urged viewers that this was the time for them and the Church to do their part in being responsible, while still practising the Christian principle of caring for one another. He admonished, “It cannot be survival of the fittest, do not lose your humanity at this time. We have to look out for each other as Christ has called us to do. In uncertainty, we have God’s promise of protection which means that no matter what happens to us, God will always be with us. As we all play our part in preventing the spread of this virus, we have the potential to create a new normal.” Reverend Richards referenced the book of Romans 8 in the Holy Bible, reminding the online congregation that nothing can separate us from the love of God. He likened this modern time to 1823 when National Hero of Barbados and devout Methodist Sarah Ann Gill sheltered fellow Methodists in her home, holding services in secret and worshipping God after angry mobs tore down the Methodist chapel in Barbados. Reverend Richards said that In the same way in 1823, the Church could not be silenced, today with COVID-19, it will not be silenced either, Reverend Richards posited. “We will gather in our homes in Barbados, the Caribbean, and the world, thanks to the World Wide Web, and continue to lift up the name of Jesus. The praises of God cannot be silenced! What do you do when the unexpected happens? When life takes us beyond our wildest imagination, like now with the uncertain future because of COVID-19? Use the time to look seriously at the emptiness of your
life, and recognize that your life may be going in the wrong direction. “Let us begin to appreciate the little things God has blessed us with. God will fulfill every promise He has ever made! God assures us that His promises are trustworthy, especially in the midst of this pandemic. In times of darkness, we must look to God and remember His promise, we must look to God and His Word, and find the immovable foundation on which He stands,” Reverend Richards preached. As part of the Concise Coronavirus (COVID 19) Guide for the Methodist Church South Caribbean District issued by the Bishop on March 14, 2020, guidelines were issued addressing this pandemic, including how to handle Holy Communion, Baptism, Confirmation, Sunday School, ushering and greeting during church services, Funeral Services, and travel. Physical church services have been suspended in Methodist churches in the following places within the South Caribbean District of the Methodist Church: Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Saint Lucia and Barbados. However, the services are being streamed online on the various churches’ YouTube channels every Sunday morning, until further notice. Everyone is welcome to join the Methodist Church in worship.
(Article prepared by Ayesha R. Lett, PRO Methodist Church in the Southern Caribbean)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 13.
COVID-19
THE CORONAVIRUS COVID19 has had unprecedented debilitating impact around the world. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is no exception, and with the authorities taking measures to deal with the situation, THE VINCENTIAN took to the streets of Kingstown to find out how citizens are responding to the appeal to safeguard themselves, and how they felt about measures being taken generally. JEMAINE CHARLES Sailor
I am glad that I am home. The journey to get here was hard but I did the necessary precaution mask, hand sanitizer, etc. Because my biggest fear was coming through airport. Getting off the ship was no problem, but the journey to get here was an issue for me, but once I got home, I did my 14 days quarantine and I am good. As far as St. Vincent is concerned, I am a little
bit skeptical because every airport I pass through they’re doing full screening. But when I got here, the lady had a small machine at the gate and she was not doing everybody, so that was a bit mind-boggling. She scanned the person in front of me, skipped me and the gentleman man behind me, and went to the next person. I think SVG as a whole, the people are little more aware hygiene wise than the outside world, but preparation wise if there was to be a breakout, God forbid, I don’t think we can handle it. So let’s just hope we don’t have a break out.
Jemaine Charles
but the most you can do is read and educate yourself. I think we should have closed the borders. Why do they want to wait until the virus reaches a certain stage before measures are put in place? That should have been done in the beginning. Even at the airport there is no real testing. Testing at the DESARIE POMPEY airport should be Temporary worker mandatory. The most I My concern as a single can do is continue my personal hygiene. mother who is working and going to college, is JUNIEL ALEXANDER that I have nobody to look after my child. I see Tour Guide/ Soca artist a lot of people acting all I don’t think we are crazy about the virus,
Cruise line workers to be quarantined VINCENTIAN NATIONALS EMPLOYED in the cruise ship industry and who have chosen to return home, now that cruise lines have halted operations as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, will be subjected to mandatory quarantine for a period of 14 days. Cruise line workers are returning to their respective Chief Medical homelands where many of them, including Officer (CMO) Dr. Vincentians, will be quarantined. Simone Keizer-Beache told THE all cruise workers, unless they were VINCENTIAN that the Ministry of somewhere else in the Caribbean for Health has been tracking such the last 14 days, they need to be under individuals, and increasing quarantine for 14 days,” Dr Keizersurveillance accordingly. Keizer-Beache said that the persons Beache emphasized. The Ministry on Wednesday concerned were being monitored through community health personnel, updated the list of countries from where travellers will be quarantined, from the time of their arrival home. to include Canada. “We have to remind the general The other countries include China, public that persons coming from the Iran, South Korea, United States cruise lines must have transited including the U.S Virgin Islands, UK, through either the United Kingdom, the European Union including Italy the United States, the European Union and now Canada, to get home,” and the Overseas Departments of France to include Guadeloupe, she said. Martinique, St Martin and French “Even if they went through Puerto Rico, that country too is on the list. So, Guiana and now Canada. (DD)
Desarie Pompey doing enough. We should have closed borders because we don’t know who are carrying this thing . I am worried for my families because some of them are overseas and I am always on social media looking for update. For me working as a Tour Guide, things are slow so I am hoping this thing is over with and they find a vaccine to deal with the virus. I always have my hand sanitizer , always washing my hands and avoid hugging people, and I am staying at home
Juniel Alexander
Tito ‘Cartman’ Rogers
seems like the government officials are ignoring the warning from that Ministry. My business is Because the Prime affected right now, like Minister had an event in everybody start to get Union Island with more scared . People are than 20 people present keeping out of town. despite the Chief Medical People use to come town Officer speaking about and buy things to send social distancing. down Grenadines, now This thing is affecting the virus making people my business, but if we scared , down to me…. have to shut down the well not really scared but country for a couple anxious because you days, we have to shut it have to wonder what is down because our health going to happen down is our wealth. I rather to the road. be broken today and I have seen press healthy than next week releases from the am sick and wealthy. Ministry of Health, but it TITO ‘CARTMAN’ ROGERS - Cartman
V Sagicor donates US$1 million to fight COVID-19 14. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Business
SAGICOR FINANCIAL COMPANY Limited announced today that it is committing US One Million Dollars (US$1M) to aid in the fight against COVID-19 in the Caribbean.
The Caribbean’s leading insurance provider will use the US$1 Million to support containment and response efforts, and has already started dialogue with governments and
health ministries in Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, and the Director General of the OECS. The focus will be placed on enhancing early detection and providing
equipment for the immediate care of those already infected. In Barbados, the company is in discussions with authorities regarding a plan to
purchase “walkthrough” scanners to be placed at the island’s ports of entry, as well as specific hightraffic facilities. Plans are already at an advanced stage for the distribution of handheld scanners and other medical supplies across the Eastern Caribbean, while in Trinidad & Dodridge Miller, Group President Tobago, the and CEO of Sagicor Financial team is Company Limited, described the working donation as a demonstration of with the his Company’s consistent government to support for communities in provide support which it operates. (Photo Source: including the Internet Photo) supply of minimize risk and reduce critical medical the spread of this virus. equipment. Sagicor It is not only the Jamaica is currently coordinating efforts with responsibility of governments to respond other private sector to this challenge, but organisations to finance also that of corporate the purchase of medical citizens. We hope that equipment, as well as this assistance can help online educational tools to bolster the response of for primary school our governments as they students who are out of seek to fight on our school during this time. region’s behalf and play Group President and CEO of Sagicor Financial our part in the global response”. Company Each market will Limited, Dodridge liaise directly with Miller, described the governments and other move as consistent with agencies to determine Sagicor’s history of what support is needed, support for the communities in which we and will handle distribution at the local operate. Miller stated, level. (Source: Sagicor) “We all need to support initiatives that will
Loan repayment deferral coming Continued from Page 2. A joint statement by the ECCB and ECCU Bankers Association stated that the support programme “is a collective and coordinated approach to help address the economic and social consequences from the pandemic, occasioned by this time of difficulty and uncertainty.” Customers of financial institutions and residents of the Currency Union are being encouraged to use digital and online channels as far as possible when transacting business with their banks, so as to avoid large gatherings and long lines. These services, the statement said, are offered, without charge, by most financial institutions. (Source: ECCB)
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 15.
Parliament
Dr. Friday: Border controls are a national urgency THE FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS for newly minted Speaker of the House Carlos James, was an adjournment of the day’s business, to facilitate Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday’s request to discuss the government’s current border control policy as a matter of national urgency. Dr. Friday prefaced his statements by acknowledging his Party’s implicit agreement with certain elements of the government’s COVID-19 mitigation strategies, but stressed the importance of immediately initiating measures to curb any further importation and eventual local transmission of the dreaded COVID-19 disease. Dr. Friday was mindful that his invocation of the Standing Order 14, which enabled the discussion as per Parliamentary guidelines, was unprecedented but warranted. He also noted that of the sundry issues surrounding the ghastly pandemic whether “the health issues [or] the economic impact that we have all been seeking to address; sometimes we would differ on how best to address particularly the economic fallout.” But Friday, in focusing his
presentation, said, “While there are many other issues with respect to the COVID-19 that can be addressed, we are here specifically focusing on the threat of importation into St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We have one confirmed case in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and we need to keep it that way. Our ability to respond to a community spread that would create serious infections throughout the country and illness, our ability to respond to that scenario is very limited. I think everyone in this honorable house shares that concern.” How then does one address this? Dr. Friday posed rhetorically. “It is our belief, Mr. Speaker, it is my committed belief that securing the ports — all ports, the airports and the sea ports — is critical to accomplishing this.” Dr. Godwin Friday warned about the potentially great disservice that could be wrought upon the country’s impeccable hospitality reputation as a result of these heightened tensions. “We don’t want to have a negative interaction with the visitors who come here…. I have heard it even among school children
who are concerned about visitors who come because they see the stuff on the T.V and they read the stuff on the internet… about the risks and the dangers to themselves or the spread of the disease, and they react against those persons.” Friday underscored his unequivocal call “for the government to reconsider its position with respect to” its border control policies, by reminding “we are not a single continuous country like Barbados or Jamaica.” This country’s archipelagic nature, Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition, considered it timely our limited ability to and his responsibility to raise the issue of border control as a matter police the large that warrants urgent national attention. expanse of water, means Vincentian ports of entry which else is, I don’t think is borders are spectacularly adequate in this time, Mr. apparently resulted in the vulnerable during this global Speaker.” Chateaubelair port being health threat. Securing the Although the motion closed, whether as a direct borders, Dr. Friday said, “is allowed for the Opposition result of threats posed by the essential in inspiring public Leader to voice his COVID-19 disease or confidence.” constituents’ concerns, House structural failure. The Opposition Leader rules do not permit for it to be “… to say that chastised the government’s Chateaubelair is not a port of voted on. supposed review of and entry anymore but every place promised limit to the local jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com
Border Control Policy to be maintained
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will not be swayed to change his government’s stance, unless advised so to do by the appropriate civil servants. PRIME MINISTER RALPH GONSALVES will not be swayed to change his open border
policy here, even in the face of concerns presented by Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin
Friday. Friday availed himself of a motion of adjournment to discuss a matter of urgent national importance — border controls - as provided by the scarcely invoked Section 14 of the House of Assembly Standing Orders. In his inaugural ruling, House Speaker Carlos James flexed his muscles and allotted each member a 25minute window in which to address Parliament. Dr. Friday explicitly called for a revision of government’s policy of continuing with open borders in the face of the expanding COVID-19 threat. He qualified the call, stating that it meant shutting off Vincentian borders to all but the most essential trade and personnel movements with allowance, of course, for nationals to return home. Prime Minister Gonsalves took the time to note all of the 11 questions that
Opposition House members submitted for ventilation as part of the day’s intended proceedings. “I’m a little taken aback by the lack of urgency on the part of the Opposition in the questions which they had put down I think since last week Thursday, one week ago, to be asked of us in this Honorable House.” The questions referred to issues touching and concerning CLICO, violence and sexual abuse against women, Citizenship By Investment programme, road conditions in Chapmans Village and Belair, amongst others. The Prime Minister then offered to lodge as “a document of the House,” a copy of the address he made the night before, detailing what he described as his government’s COVID-19 Socio-Economic Recovery Plan. From it he read, “I know that in several countries in our
Caribbean there have been total shutdowns, partial shutdowns, the declaration of an entire country as a disaster area and declarations of states of emergency. Some Caribbean countries have adopted the broad approach of incremental measures for lower risks, accelerated measures for heightened risks as we have done in St. Vincent in accordance with all the circumstances.” The Prime Minister pointed to several other countries “which have used a measured approach” in their COVID-19 response. He also highlighted the updated quarantine list that stipulates a mandatory period of seclusion for travellers from several “hotspots” as proof of his cognizance of the need “to control persons coming in” to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The additional nursing staff and auxiliary Coast Guard resources, namely the “8 or 9 Coast Guard
… safe boats,” PM Gonsalves said, are further evidence of his government’s commitment to strengthen “the surveillance at the borders.” As it relates to the cruise vessel that stirred some measure of fear among Grenadine residents, Gonsalves told Vincentians, it “had been cleared sometime before and was hanging around in Bequia. So, it simply went down the Southern Grenadines, didn’t take on any other passengers, was the same persons who had already been cleared. “I know that the person who called you from Mayreau I would expect that person to be fearful.” The Prime Minister committed to close individual ports providing that any issue requiring such an action is of sufficient magnitude, and is brought to his attention via the appropriate civil servants.
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16. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Environment
Importance of rivers highlighted IN AN EFFORT TO SENSITIZE COMMUNITIES across SVG that the life of rivers matters, two days of community outreach were conducted as part of the National Environmental Days Commemoration Committee’s (NEDCC) observance of International Day of Action for Rivers 2020, March 14. International Day of Action for Rivers is used by organizations, communities, and individuals across the globe to spread awareness regarding healthy rivers, and to educate on the conservation of watersheds and the importance of equitable and sustainable management of rivers and waterways. This year’s theme focused on ‘Women, Members of the NEDCC team engage women who use Water, and Climate Change’. the rivers for washing laundry. (Photo Credit: NPRBA) The outreach sessions took place in Layou on Tuesday, March 10th, and in the problems affecting the rivers and their Colonarie and South Rivers on Wednesday, negative impact on the community, to solicit March 11th, 2020. feedback from and encourage individuals to Teams, comprising members of the NEDCC, representatives from the South Windward Range develop a sense of pride in their environment, and take action to protect and conserve their of the Forestry Services, Public Health Officers, freshwater resources. personnel from the National Parks, Rivers, The effort aimed at fostering awareness about Beaches Authority (NPRBA), visited these communities and engaged in one on one sessions the need for protection and conservation of the with persons living in proximity of the rivers, or environment in communities throughout SVG, is using the river for their livelihood and recreation expected to be an ongoing one. The NEDCC is chaired by the National Parks, purposes. Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA). (Source: The outreach activity was done, to highlight NPRBA)
NPRBA receives donation THE NATIONAL PARKS, Rivers and Beaches Authority (NPRBA) recently received some wellneeded extra support for ongoing Victor Emanuel of VENT (2nd from improvement right) hands over cheque to Andrew work at the Wilson (2nd from left) of the NPRBA. Vermont (Photo Credit: NPRBA) Nature Trail. This, when on Thursday 12th March, at the Vermont Nature Trail, the Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT), one of the most highly regarded birding and nature tour companies globally, donated US$5000 to the Authority. VENT was founded in 1976 by industry pioneer Mr. Victor Emanuel who has over 44 years of experience in bird and nature tours across the globe, and prides themselves in delivering excellent service in ecotourism. VENT is also a strong advocate for the conservation of nature, supports local conservation organizations, and employs local drivers, guides and in-country tourism operators for their tours. Prior to the handing over ceremony, Fair Field Limited, a local tour company, facilitated a birdwatching hike to the Parrot Lookout Facility on the Vermont Nature Trail. Sixty-eight (68) enthusiastic visiting bird watchers participated in the hike. (Source: NPRBA)
V Tribute to Gailene Windsor
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 17.
Tribute
game very well. Gailene’s ability to play Netball well was recognised by the then national Netball selectors and she represented St Vincent and the Grenadines between 1974 and 1978 at the regional level, and also had the distinct honour of being on the team Good afternoon, ladies and which represented St Vincent and the gentlemen Grenadines at the World Netball Championships held in Trinidad and THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Tobago in 1979. NETBALL ASSOCIATION mourns the During that period, she played passing of Ms Gailene Patricia Windsor. alongside many former outstanding Gailene was an avid netballer, indeed a netballers, namely Stella Boyea, Jose formidable player, who started playing Providence, Cornelia Arthur, Jackie the game while she was a student at the Quashie, the Lindsay twins Jacqueline Kingstown Government School, the and Gillian, Venita Wood, Merla school which throughout the years we Evans, Silma Millington, Genita refer to as Stoney Grounds Government Lewis, Barbara Steele, among others. School, under the guidance and direction It is also to be noted that Gailene was of then Education Officer for Physical a member of a representative Education and Sports, the renowned Mrs Caribbean American Netball Hermina Cambridge. She then moved on Association team which played in a to play at the club level, playing in tournament that was held in Jamaica national tournaments for many years as in the late 1980s. When Gailene a member of Paragons, Falcons and Red migrated to the USA in early 1980, she Sox. She was also a member of the Vets continued her Netball career and Sports Club upon her return to St Vincent played in the American Netball and the Grenadines a few years ago, and Association League. And she was up to the time of her passing. subsequently one of the founders of Gailene towered over her Netball the Caribbean American Netball rivals, especially given that her home Association, and also immersed herself in those days overlooked the in the powerhouse Hairoun Sports Kingstown Netball Centre. She was Club. always on the Netball Court and was In the light of her advocacy for regarded as a player whose fitness women in Sports and particularly level was considered to always be at a Netball, she was elected first as Vice high level, and one who evidently President of USA Netball and wanted to raise her own level of play, subsequently as President of that armed with a profound desire to stuff august body. Gailene also went on to herself with the fundamentals of the serve for many years as President of game which she loved dearly. Some of the Caribbean American Netball her playing partners would tell stories Association. One of her biggest of her never ever completing her accomplishments was to get the domestic chores, opening up herself to tournament location lighted. At that shouts from her now deceased time the tournament was played at grandmother Ms Toney to get home immediately to ensure that her assigned chores were completed. Gailene would casually roll her eyes and leave a ‘hot’ game to go home to finish her chores, but not without saying: ‘’Girls, I will be back.” And very often, the girls would be surprised when she returned shortly afterwards, and she would get back on to the court without even the slightest indication of a prior interruption. Gailene was a very energetic, versatile but primarily formidable mid court player and shooter who made huge efforts to outplay, outshine and outwit her opponents, giving her all in every game in which she played. She was indeed a great inspiration to her team mates. She would work out strategies for each game, and studied her opponents and the Delivered by: Doris Mc Intosh, President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association, at the Funeral Service on Friday, March 20, 2020, at the Methodist Church in Kingstown
Lincoln Terrace in Brooklyn, New York. Gailene’s outstanding contribution to Netball and Sports in general, not only here in St Vincent and the Grenadines but also in the USA, was recognized by the Government of our beloved country when she was accorded the signal honour and distinction of being named Sports Ambassador in 2015. The St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association, therefore, extends profound condolences to her entire family, and salutes this National Treasure whose contribution to Netball here in St Vincent and the Grenadines, throughout the region, and also in the USA, will long be remembered. Her pleasant personality will also leave life-long memories for us all. I also use this opportunity this afternoon to convey to the entire family heartfelt condolences from the Executive bodies of the International Netball Federation, the American Federation of Netball Associations, and also the Caribbean Netball Association. They would all wish to place on record the outstanding contribution which Gailene made to Netball here in St Vincent and the Grenadines, in the region, and also internationally, as a player and administrator.
All that is left for me now is to say farewell to Gailene and to thank her entire family for sharing her and her talent with us in our quest to further develop this noble Women’s Sport. There is no doubt in my mind that netballers here in St Vincent and the Grenadines, in the wider Caribbean, and also in the USA will always think of her as the Netball giant that she truly was. May Almighty God grant Gailene eternal rest.
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18. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
Section of patrons.
Vincy cultural group hosts Prayer Breakfast Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT THE FELLOWSHIP HALL at Miracle Temple Ministries in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, New York was packed to capacity two Saturday mornings ago, as the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCGB) hosted another fund-raising Prayer Breakfast to aid health institutions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “According to the reviews from most of our patrons, this year’s Prayer Breakfast was by far the best,” said Dr. Roxie Irish-Morris, UVCGB longstanding president and a Youth Minister at Miracle Temple Ministries, an evangelical church, where a number of UVCGB members worship, in a VINCENTIAN interview. “The ‘Word’ delivered by Pastor Cornelius Olive, was challenging, inspiring, encouraging and uplifting,” added Dr. Irish-Morris. In his message, Pastor Olive, 70, the Vincentian-born pastor at Trinity Apostolic Church on Pacific Street in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, preached that “nothing is too hard for God to do. “There’s nothing impossible with this God,” stressed the Questelles native. “And nobody can stop this God. If God is for you, no one can be against you. “Nothing by any means can hurt you when you put your trust in the living God,” Pastor Olive added. “God goes beyond whatever you’ve accumulated in this life. My God can do anything.” In his remarks, Howie Prince, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General to the United States, asked patrons to “pray for people, even though you don’t like them. “Pray for Donald Trump (US President), even though you don’t like him,” he urged. “Pray for Ralph Gonsalves, your (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) prime minister.” Intercessional prayers for, among other things, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, UVCGB, married couples,
President of the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn Dr. Roxie Irish-Morris. school teachers, the youth and children. “touched the hearts of many of our patrons,” Dr. Irish-Morris said. Between the prayers and singing, patrons feasted on mouth-watering Caribbean delicacies such as boiled banana and white and yellow yam, bakes, saltfish, mackerel and liver. Besides its annual Prayer Breakfast, UVCGB holds, among other things, a Christmas Serenade, a major cultural concert and a Tea Party, in raising funds to assist medical facilities, with supplies, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Among other UVCGB goals is the promotion of Vincentian culture in North America and other places, through folk songs, chorale speeches, skits, storytelling, plays, poems and dances. Since the group was formed in 2003, Dr. Irish-Morris said it has spent over US$50,000.00 in medical supplies for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
V Rihanna donates $1.4 million to fight COVID-19
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 19.
Regional
BARBADIAN SENSATION Robyn Rihanna Fenty has been lauded by the Barbados Government for her contribution towards fighting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced tonight during the Appropriation Bill 2020, that Rihanna has donated BBD $1.4 million to Government towards the purchase of ventilators. The island’s business sector has also united to offer assistance in the purchasing of medical supplies and equipment to combat COVID-19. Government reported two more positive cases of COVID-19 earlier today, bringing the national total number of confirmed cases to six. All six cases are imported. Each patient who is being treated, has a travel history to the United States. Two out of the six cases are two
visitors to Barbados. The others are Barbadians. Barbados’ first two cases were confirmed March 17. Sagicor has donated two temperature scanners for the airport and seaport, and Courts Barbados, a subsidiary of Unicomer, donated beds for the quarantine facilities. Mottley also announced the launch of the Barbados Adopt Our Families Programme, to which Massy Barbados has donated $250,000. The programme will assist vulnerable groups and cash-strapped families affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. “We believe that a country that knows what it is to carry each other, cannot watch others suffer in this environment; separate from those who can afford to hire somebody to help around the house and to do other things that they can’t because
they are earning better than most.” Therefore, she made a call for those in a position financially to give, to do so. “I am directly appealing to the people of this country, particularly those who are earning above $100,000 in Barbados and those companies who can afford it, to contribute to Barbados’ Adopt Our Families Programme that will be chaired by the Director of Finance and Economic Affairs ,and that will have other public servant representatives, not the political class, be able to manage that fund to ensure that we can reach as many Barbadians as possible.” (Loop News)
Tim Duncan helps stranded students TIM DUNCAN is once again giving back to his home community in the face of a crisis. This time, the NBA star is helping Virgin Islands students stateside and students at the University of the Virgin Islands return to their homes, as colleges all over the country begin moving to online classes to combat the spread of the novel corona virus. The Tim Duncan Foundation has partnered with Seaborne/Silver Airlines to book one-way tickets for college students that need to come or leave the territory to reunite with their families, while in-person classes are indefinitely suspended. The ball got rolling after Rashidi Clenance, the vice president of the Tim Duncan Foundation, received a call from a concerned parent whose child was stuck stateside with nowhere to go as their dorm was closing. That’s a reality a lot of college students are facing in the wake of the coronavirus response. When he took that information to Tim Duncan and the foundation, they recognized it was a serious problem that needed a solution, not just for one family, but for more families without the same connections, and this was the course of action that made the
NBA star Tim Duncan needs very little prodding when it comes to assisting worthy causes in his native US Virgin Islands. (Credit: Facebook Page) most sense to help be part of the solution. (Source: St. John’s Source, USVI)
Rihanna is committed to her native Barbados in words and deeds. (Credit: Loop News)
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20. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN
COVID-19 Statistics
CASES OF CORONAVIRUS ACROSS THE CARICOM MEMBERSHIP AS OF MARCH 26, 2020. COUNTRY
CASES
Antigua & Barbuda Bahamas Barbados Belize Dominica Grenada Guyana Haiti Jamaica Montserrat St. Kitts & Nevis St. Lucia St. Vincent & the Grenadines Suriname Trinidad and Tobago TOTAL
7 5 26 2 11 1 11 8 26 3 2 3 1 8 65 179
DEATHS
1 1
1 1 4
CASES OF CORONAVIRUS ACROSS THE WIDER CARIBBEAN AS OF MARCH 26, 2020. COUNTRY
Anguilla Aruba Bermuda Curacao Cuba Dominican Republic French Guiana Martinique Guadeloupe US Virgin Island British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Puerto Rico St Barths St. Martin St. Maarten Turks and Caicos TOTAL
CASES
0 19 7 6 67 488 28 81 73 17 2 8 51 3 11 3 1 867
Compiled by Staff of THE VINCENTIAN
DEATHS
1 1 10 1
1 1 1
16
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) The key to feeling good about yourself will be to do something about it. Don't volunteer private information about yourself unless you're prepared to be talked about behind your back. TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Changes in your domestic scene are apparent. Don't let others make you feel guilty or insecure. Don't exhaust yourself or minor health problems will set in. You should make sure that your personal papers are in order. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You could find yourself caught in a one sided relationship. You have worked hard and the payback is now. It's doubtful anyone will try to stand in your way or cut you off at the pass this week. CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will meet exciting new people through interest groups or functions that you attend with your children. If you keep busy you won't feel the personal pressures you are going through. Real estate investments could be to your advantage. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Investments may not be as lucrative as you thought. You will have to watch out for minor health problems related to stress. Involve yourself in group endeavors. Unexpected changes in friendships could occur. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You will need to take a look at the renovations that are necessary and try to find the cheapest way to get things done. Don't expect support from your mate. You can put in some overtime and make extra cash.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty. Property purchases should be on your mind. You may enjoy doing something musical for entertainment. Control your emotions and everything will fall into place. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Opportunities to get together with friends will be enlightening and entertaining. Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your courage and willpower will enable you to get rid of destructive habits as well. Talking to those you trust and respect will help you sort out any problems. Travel and entertainment will be pleasurable. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You won't be well received by superiors or by your spouse. You must take care not to over exert yourself if involved in sports. You will be able to work with fine detail this week. Put your time and energy into travel, philosophy, and soulsearching. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Don't trust a deal that looks too good, or a lover who appears to have it all. They will not have the patience to wait for you to complete things that they've asked you to do. Emotional partnerships may develop through projects you initiate. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will be able to close any deals successfully. This will not be the day to lend money to friends or family. Your reputation may be at stake if you partake in gossip.
ACROSS 1. Move (a tail) 4. Flock males 8. Bang closed 12. Marriage words 13. Big test 14. Sit for a photograph 15. Camel-colored 16. Heredity factor 17. With 62-Across, comicbook reporter 18. Dirt smudge 20. Peruvian beasts 22. Dog-treating doctor 24. _ Vegas 25. Show life 29. Growth stage 33. Your and my 34. Mischievous sprite 36. Haul 37. Reach a consensus 40. Post-midnight period 43. Hack (off) 45. Wide-eyed exclamation 46. Senseless 49. Stockholm native 53. Incline 54. Entertainer Arnaz 57. Guided 58. Solving aid 59. Fanatical 60. Straggle (behind) 61. Towel designation 62. See 17-Across 63. Unspecified quantity DOWN 1. Mental powers 2. Eden dweller 3. Vanished 4. Rue
5. Wood chopper 6. Fellow 7. Scent 8. Swimmingpool sound 9. Weaving frame 10. China’s continent 11. Disorderly state 19. Glamorous Gardner 21. Race unit 23. Beat _ clock 25. Tropical snake 26. Little carpet 27. Miscalculate 28. Yard tree 30. Rhyming boxer 31. Major heat source
32. Yolk site 35. Thick mist 38. Buoys up 39. Geologic span 41. Live 42. Never used 44. Propel a bike 46. Burning desire
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 21.
47, African river 48. Mean remark 50. Vocal stylist Fitzgerald 52. Nervous 55. TV star Gabor 56. Moral offense
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22. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Feature
On Blackfish and Bearing Bad News Professor Russell Fielding clears the air SINCE 2008, I have directed a research project that studies various environmental aspects of the blackfish operation in Barrouallie. Over the years, I spent months at a time in St. Vincent, including
hundreds of hours at sea aboard blackfish boats, working as a crewmember. I developed a deep respect for the Vincentian blackfish operation and the people involved in it. Through articles in
The Pilot Whale – the preferred catch for whalers in Barrouallie.
scholarly journals and presentations at academic conferences, I spoke of the tradition, economic value, and sustainability of blackfishing. (See www.sewanee.edu/facult y/fielding/cv/ for examples.) Most of the world does not think highly of whaling, which includes Vincentian blackfishing, and, because of my speaking out, I was viewed as a defender of the indefensible. Despite this, I did not back down. I am a scientist and I base my conclusions on data. The data indicated that the Vincentian blackfish operation was very likely sustainable. I
should be tested. I Professor Russell delivered these revised Fielding’s findings have findings to the relevant been examined and reVincentian ministries examined over a period and published them in of time. the academic journal, Environmental Research. wish that the findings I also began to give Finding mercury about mercury in public talks about the blackfish had been Then came the mercury problem, different, but they pollution. Risks to including one in weren’t. The reactions to human health were being Kingstown recently. my talk have called into found in parts of the question my motivation, Sharing the findings world where blackfish my scientific credentials, and related species were my truthfulness, even eaten. Mercury is one I was happy to have a my racial bias. And local venue at which to pollutant that that’s fair. You want to accumulates in many discuss my work. I paid be skeptical, especially of my own travel expenses kinds of seafood. someone from outside Mercury poisoning often and did not receive any who comes to tell you results in health issues financial benefit for the something about your talk. I was hosted by that are difficult to own culture and food detect since they occur local organizations, the systems. I want to assure National Trust and slowly, over a lifetime, anyone who is concerned: instead of all at once. others, who take a I presented valid data, I chose to analyze different position on confirmed by multiple Vincentian blackfishing mercury in blackfish iterations of scientific tissue for two reasons. than I do: they actively analysis and thoroughly oppose it and would like peer-reviewed. I want First, I was already deeply involved in the to see it replaced with the public to have this blackfish operation, and another industry. But information so they can second, blackfish are top the views I presented make informed decisions marine predators. Any were my own and were about what to eat. pollutants found in their backed up by scientific Nobody from outside, tissue will be found in data. I said during my myself included, can other species further talk, and I will state make that decision for again here, that I have down on the food chain you. no intention of as well. By studying Just before I spoke at advocating for the end of the National Trust, a pollution in blackfish, you can understand Vincentian blackfishing. student from Barrouallie pollution in the entire As a scientist, my job is led the audience in to collect and share marine environment. singing the National information. As a human Anthem. The first lines We found a lot of mercury. In 2018, the being, it’s my moral of the chorus are preliminary analysis obligation to tell people if especially relevant showed average mercury I know something during these times of important to their own concentrations in environmental and health and wellbeing. I blackfish meat to be public health seven times the World came to Kingstown to uncertainty: “What e’er Health Organization’s share information on the the future brings, our recommended limit of 1.0 potential health risk faith will see us posed by mercury in ppm. I shared the early through.” I pray that it blackfish. data in a limited way will. throughout SVG and My role, continued the analysis. unfortunately, was to be Russell Fielding As I analyzed more the bearer of bad news. I St. James, Barbados samples and triplechecked the results, it became clear that the average concentration of mercury was actually higher than the preliminary results had shown. The current figures indicate that the average mercury concentration in blackfish meat is more than 20 times the WHO’s recommended limit. This means that other predatory marine species in the Caribbean– marlin, sharks, tuna, and Pilot whale meat drying in the sun in Barroualie. others–are also likely The meat will be consumed by households in high in mercury and Barrouallie and sold throughout SVG.
was viewed as a defender of Vincentian blackfishing because I saw no scientifically valid reason to condemn it.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 23.
Football, Track dominate Sports Awards
Ulanda Lewis – Junior Sportswoman of the Year Left: Kendale Mercury – Coach of the Year Linda McDowall – Senior on scholarship in Sportswoman of the Year year’s Awards at the Community Jamaica and College, Villa, last Saturday, holder of Carifta March 21. Games gold and bronze medals. He was named Track and Field Junior Sportsman of the Ace middle and long Year. Oryan distance runner Linda Velox from McDowall notched up her Football and fourth consecutive Senior Shane Cadougan Sportswoman of the Year from Swimming Award. She outran were the other Squash standout Amber contenders for Glasgow and Netball’s that Award. Mary-Ann Frederick on Cornelius Stewart - Senior her way to an Football Sportsman of the Year unprecedented achievement. Not only did in hunt of that Ulanda Lewis, who lit the St. Vincent and the accolade. up the local schools and Grenadines Football Handel Roban – Junior Sportsman of Kendale Mercury regional circuits in the Federation (SVGFF) take the the Year was returned as Head sprint events, secured yet Association of the Year Award, Coach of the Senior another Junior but the sport also accounted even more satisfied that one of Sportswoman of the Year for the Coach of the Year and National Team in December his cares, Cornelius Stewart, 2018. He has since set the Award. The adjudicators the Senior Sportsman of the national team on a steady and who is captain of the SVG gave her the nod over Year. Senior Football Team, took the relatively successful course, footballer Areka Hooper The SVGFF dethroned the Senior Sportsman of the Year and on that basis, earned and Mya De Freitas from St. Vincent and the himself the Coach of the Year Award. The other contenders swimming. Grenadines Cricket Award. He was challenged for were distance runner Junior Track and Field’s third Association Inc., and also left the Award by Rawlson Morgan Ashton and West Indies award came through the other contender, the St. Crystal Huggins – Representing cricketer Sunil Ambris. from Track and Field. middle distance runner Vincent and the Grenadines the SVG Football Federation – the Handel Roban, currently Table Tennis Association still Mercury must have been Association of the Year. I.B.A.ALLEN FOOTBALL AND TRACK AND FIELD dominated this year’s National Sports Awards, when the National Sports Council, in conjunction with the National Lotteries Authority, hosted this
V Marrying sports and academics can work 24. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
WAYNE WILLIAMS, SPORTS ADMINISTRATOR, Basketball Coach and long-standing member of the National Olympic Committee, is of the firm belief that the synergies between sports and academics are real and impactful. Williams expressed the position while delivering the Feature Address around the theme ‘Forging Synergies between Academics and Sports’, at the Annual National Sports Awards Ceremony held last Saturday at the Community College, Villa. He, in fact, when he was done, had all but decimated any notion that pursuing sporting success would compromise academic achievements. “When we speak about creating synergy between academic and sports, we are speaking to the benefits from the combination,” Williams said, adding, “It is my belief that when we encourage our children from early childhood to understand that
education is the outcome of their learning and life experiences, they are more likely to emerge as totally rounded individuals.” He continued, “Sports help to contribute to a healthy mind, teach us how to fail and pick ourselves up; allow us to exceed our God-given talent even our limited expectation; teach us hard work, discipline, teamwork, and how to be successful and a productive person.” Accepting this and applying it will help the young ones to understand that there is a direct relationship between being physically fit and increased productivity in all other aspects of their daily lives, Williams underscored. Williams emphasized that there are three fundamental aspects of education: literacy, numeracy and physical literacy. “All three,” he said, “are critical areas for the total
development of the student, not just the student athlete”. Referencing the research work of institutions like the LA84 Foundation, Williams shared that four findings have emerged from this research: there is a strong correlation between youth sports participation and academic success; positive relations between sports and successful academic performance do not hold for all young athletes; youth sports programmes are critical factors in maximizing the positive impact on young peoples’ lives; ongoing research would ensure that adjustments are made to changing times and cultural expressions. On that basis, Williams sought to establish with his audience, that “no one suggests that sport is a magic bullet, but that the message is clear Youth Sports Progammes when properly designed
and managed, can play an important role in helping young people achieve academic Wayne Williams success.” has no doubt Little wonder, about the value in therefore, that combining Williams called academic pursuits for more focus to with a suitable be placed on sports regimen. physical literacy which speaks towards the development of an individual’s competence in movement and coordination. In fact, he said, we must insist Physical Education is compulsory at all levels of the education systems. I.B.A.ALLEN
Tight race for Women in Sports Commission national goal initiates Reboot Challenge scoring accolades WITH GYMS closed and/or allowing only limited access, and with persons practising the prescribed social distancing amidst the threats of the coronavirus, the newly launched Women’s in Sports Commission of the SVG Olympic Committee, has initiated what is dubbed a ‘Reboot Challenge’. The Challenge runs from March 31 to April 12 and is a period exercise, inclusive of push ups, sit ups, squats, knee ups, jumping jacks and toe raises. To take the participants through the Challenge, recommended exercises and daily Chart of the various exercises to be done during the Reboot Challenge. frequencies have been provided by way of a appealed. Commission Natasha the Challenge, “is to try chart. The Women in Sports Sandy- Stapleton noted and keep fit or regain Deputy Chair of the that the main intent of fitness, during this time Commission, launched recently, is headed by of social distancing. Chair- Suzanna-Marie “Exercising and healthy diet are ways to Leigertwood-Ollivierre. In addition to Sandyhelp our bodies fight viruses, and COVID- 19 Stapleton, the other members are LaPrise is no different,” SandyWilliams, Geshelle Stapleton underscored. Peters, Suzanne Jackson, She is encouraging Vasha Adams, Akiyama girls and women Johnson and Jackie especially, to be part of Joseph. the Reboot Challenge, The members of the and in so doing appealed, “Let’s get on board as the Commission were drawn from the various national SVG Women in Sports sporting associations of Commission fosters a St Vincent and the healthy lifestyle for our Grenadines. women and girls,” she
THE RACE is tight for the top goal scoring positions for the Premier Division and First Division of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) National Club Championships. Zidane Sam of Greiggs, with 12 goals, is the current leading goal scorer in the Premier Division. He is closely followed by the Zidane Sam trio Dequan Springer of BESCO Pastures; Diel Spring of North Leeward Predators, and Sheaquan Millington of Sion Hill, each with 11 goals. Next in line are BESCOPastures’ Hosni Chandler and the Avenues United’s duo of Erel Hector and Ashroy Patterson, who are locked on 8 goals each. In the First Division, Layou ‘s Chelson Hendrickson and Pride and Joy’s Orlando Orlando Trimmingham share the top spot Trimmingham with seven goals each. They are hounded by seven players, each with six goals. They are: Jarvis Hoyte- Owia United; Chrishur Harry, Mazique Herbert and Augustus Adams- Volcanoes; Atticus Enville- Toni Stores; and Diandre Smith and Malden Scrubb — Pride and Joy. The players, though, have to wait on the championships’ restart to see what shifts they might be in the tables. The championships have been suspended because of the threat Chelson of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Hendrickson As at the suspension of the Championships, Hope International was leading the points standings in the Premier Division, while Layou United was on top in the First Division.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 25.
Sports
In life and living THAT THE National Sports Awards came off is cause for celebration. The atmosphere that pervades is reason for everyone to be cautious. The staging of any event currently amounts to a risky affair. Most activities have been affected. After some weeks of speculation, the Olympic Games scheduled for Japan has been pushed back one year. There is no question as to the impact of the COVID-19 episode. Sport fans have to rely on events they might have visited time over time to fill their appetite. The absence of live sporting activities adds to the sense of depression many are experiencing. Sports served as a form of therapy. Sporting personnel have to adjust to the loss of income. Additionally, those linked to the service industry have been hit by the curtailment in activity. The situation worsens with the slowdown in travel. The loss in revenue has an effect on government revenues. There is also the anxiety factor as citizens find themselves unable to cope with the uncertainty. There was a sense of paradox at last Saturday’s Sports Awards. There were notable absentees, like the Governor General and Prime Minister. It is understandable for persons to be wary of gatherings. There might be justifications. Many might be consumed with the sideshows, and those then to have more impact than the main event. The logistics might have to be worked out to make the presentation closer to the year end. That is a challenge for organisers, for St. Vincent and the Grenadines tends to pay attention to its own agenda. It is hard to deny Vincentians their Nine Mornings space. Given the way Christmas activities unravel, a window in December appears unlikely. By the time January comes around, the hangover is still in effect. It will take a concerted effort to get events rolling in February. So, March is the natural alternative. COVID-19 has thrown up its own agenda. There is the cultural scenario. The sense of limbo that has enveloped the sporting arena spills over to the staging of festivals. The Vincy Mas faces a critical introduction. There is additional material for artistes to hinge on. Everyone will have to be flexible and those who make the best of the conditions will be better off. Carnival itself is not the ideal atmosphere in which to contain the spread of any disease. Everyone has to be alert to the potential danger that lurks. While ensuring that normalcy pervades, there must be a balance in ensuring that responsible behaviour pervades. It makes no sense trying to maintain a stable economy and put the entire nation at risk. We must learn from the global situation. But we must make our decisions accordingly. One hopes that the threat of further damage is reduced as quickly as possible. Removal of COVID-19 is no guarantee that everything will be well. The world saw the passage of some titans over the past week. Manu Dibango and Kenny Rodgers leave a void on the musical sphere. For Vincentians, the death of Earl Robinson is the most devastating on the local scene. Robinson was a cricket statistician of merit. Being gifted with figures, Robinson married cricket and numbers, so while it was difficult for many, even the most remote occurrences stood out in his mind. He kept his humility and his wits, and his role as accountant occupied his attention. Robinson was content with what life turned up, and he made the best of everything.
FLOW Radcliffe eying Premier Division glory AS IT STANDS going into the next round of matches in the SVG Cricket Association Inc. National Lotteries Authority Premier Division of the 2020 National Cricket Competition, FLOW Radcliffe, on 125 points, need only first innings points to claim the title. But they would be keeping a sharp eye out for Police Two who, with 81 points and two games in hand, stand a mathematical chance of overtaking the current FLOW Radcliffe – Premier Division leaders. leaders. hit 354 runs to FLOW Rivals look bent on at Right: Hyron date with two least being among the top three. Shallow: They on 89 points with one game matches still to Leads the be played. in hand. batting Asif Hooper, aggregate but FLOW First Division has his Radcliffe’s teammate spinning The Fist Division will go into Lindon James menace, will be the quarter finals with: defending hoping to hit the breathing champions CJ Jules Anthony down his neck. MSDA Northern Stars up against fifty-wicket Smashers; Vee Jays Roof Top and mark. He currently has a bag of 45 wickets, Bar North Windward versus Coreas Distribution Belfongo; the and would be hell bent on getting to the heralded mark. French Verandah SVG Strike Eagles’ Kevin Peters Community College matching wits with 245 runs, leads the batting with Keegans Bequia XI; and North Windward Combine taking in the First Division. However, there is a good chance that he on Police One. could be overtaken, since he has completed his season. Individual standouts Mickron Mc Dowell of Vee Jays Roof Top and Bar North FLOW Rivals boast as of the Windward, currently on 205 and last round of matches, the two highest run-getters in the Premier with at least one more match (quarter finals) of a possible three Division. Hyron Shallow has to play, would think that he shown little mercy with bat in hand and has amassed 481 runs, stands a good chance of bettering with his teammate Lindon James Peters’ 245. And as far as the bowling is sitting just a whisker away on concerned, Azar Williams of the 478. Rickford Walker of Police French Verandah SVG Two is not to be outdone. He has
Asif Hooper has his aim focused on reaching the 50-wicket mark.
Community College and Dorson Cottle of CJ Jules Anthony MSDA Northern Stars lead the table with seventeen wickets each. Andre Hunt of Coreas Distribution Belfongo follows with sixteen scalps. Each of these players will turn out in at least one more match (quarter finals) and may be more, and therefore will be looking to increase his tally of scalps. Meanwhile, the Executive of the SVGCA is scheduled to meet on March 30, 2020, to decide on the resumption of the 2020 season.
Gomea Methodist School cops another win UNBEATEN Gomea Methodist, Doesetshire Hill, Belmont and Belair in in the KFC West St. George Primary Schools T20 Cricket Competition round of matches played two weekends ago. Coreas Distribution Ltd Gomea Methodist School continued their dominant performance when they comfortably defeated NLA Brighton by 148 runs at the Belair Playing Field. Gomea Methodist posted an impressive 201 for 4, with the informed Mbeki King stroking an unbeaten 82 not out. Malique McCoy took 2 for 35. Brighton was shot out for 53 in 13.1 overs. Jeremy Martin bagged 4 for 21, Keyron Patterson 3 for10 and Avery Gibson 2 for 28.
Log Enterprises Dorsetshire Hill Government School recorded a 48-run victory over KPMG Belmont Government School. With the home advantage and support, Dorsetshire Hill Government posted 134 for 4 with Ezekiel Ahston top scoring with 21. KPMG could only reach 86 off 17 overs in response. Denzil Defreitas, 3 for 18, Shacodi Pile, 3 for 26, and Ezekiel Ashton, 2 for 8, were the chief wicket takers for Dorsetshire Hill. Belmont defeated NLA Brighton by 8 wickets. Brighton made 115 for 2, with a top score of 20 coming from Dennish Grant. Belmont then eased to 117 for 2 wickets in 17 overs. Deshawn Weekes top scored with 24.
Allan’s Bakery Sion Hill Government School’s unbeaten run came to an end, Mbeke King when they lost to continued to BDO Belair show his Government class with 82 School by 4 for Gomea wickets. Sion Hill posted 127 all out. Methodist School. Adam Pierre led with 24 and Zakala Harry, Malachi Bascombe and Dante Brereton took two wickets each. Belair replied with 128 for 6 wickets, with Dante Brereton top scoring with 28. I.B.A.ALLEN
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26. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN
Opinion
CaesarÊs house of comedy
THESE DAYS when I hear mention made of the Ministry of Agriculture, I have difficulty not coming to the conclusion, that this department of government, which in yesteryear was the main cistern from which progressive ideas relative to our agriculture flowed, has distinctly become merely “a house of comedy”, over-seen, supervised, by Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture. It must not be forgotten that the serious addressing of our agriculture industry, was one of the “fervent promises” that Dr. Gonsalves had made to the people of this country, after the NDP were thrown out of government in 2001. The record sheet, relative to their delivery of those promises, shows a distinct deficit. Every member of that ULP team must be held accountable! They all have sufficient intelligence to be aware of how the Vincentian
society was structured, and by virtue of their education and training, they had been expected to play a positive role in the development of the people. When one takes into account the factors which have contributed to the crippling malaise which now burdens SVG today, the mismanagement of the agriculture sector stands out. After the end of the Second World War in 1945, our agriculture extension officers were, along with the teachers and the nurses, the most recognized public servants in the land. In those days, the Agricultural Department was led by the Chief Agricultural Officer, then known as the Superintendent of Agriculture who operated from a distinctly well-kept property in Kingstown. We have seen these days
where the Ministry is not led by the technocrats who have years of experience in their fields, but distinctly by the Minister, who may not have hitherto exhibited any propensity to societal development. The result noticeable today, is that the technocrats have lost their passion, and the absence of sincere mission, has crippled the farmers’ confidence in the Ministry. The Minister Caesar will have to take the blame for a large percentage of the present stagnation in Agriculture! It will be impossible almost, for him to extricate himself from the promises which PM Gonsalves had made to the people since 2001, relative to Agriculture, most of which have not yet been addressed. A very serious blow to the people, was the “mashing-up” of the St. Vincent Banana Growers’ Association, the
largest farmers organization in the land, which had for decades made a measurable positive contribution to the welfare of all our people. It is noteworthy that Jamaica and St. Lucia, still saw the wisdom in continuing to grow bananas, despite the discontinuation of Preferential access to the U.K market. Against the background of reckless mismanagement of the Agriculture Sector by the ULP over the last twenty years almost, and the promises including that “Twenty Point 100 Days Plan”, authored by Minister Caesar, has pronouncement that we would
plant lettuce and “bank peas” in our counter to the COVID problem, is laughable! The nomenclature, “Caesar’s House of Comedy” seems quite appropriate! LeRoy Providence
Those ‘Living Stones’ of the Anglican Cathedral THE SPREAD of the deadly strain of the coronavirus that has given rise to COVID-19, bears similar sentiments to our forebears as they sought to fight against the viruses of Slavery and Colonisation. The Churches’ role would have been one hard to grapple with during the time of our forebears. Anyone with a semblance of humanity or decency would cringe at the image of Slavery depicted as an African man on his knees asking the question, “Am I not a man and a brother?” This writer, an unyielding member of the Anglican Church from birth, would have silently objected to the images and engravings (plaques included) that adorn the walls in particular of St. George’s (Anglican) Cathedral. Last Thursday, that silent objection erupted as the Anglican Church hosted a lecture dubbed, ‘The Living Stones’, exploring the stone memorials, and presented by Dr. Christina Welch (Death Studies Scholar and Theologian) and Dr. Neil Finnegan
(Archaeologist). Here it was revealed that some of the engravings/plaques on the walls of the Cathedral were in tribute to men and their families who were contributors to the construction and upkeep of the Church; men and their families who were slave masters; men and their families who committed the worst atrocities imaginable. Here was a place — a place of worship — within whose walls this writer and members of his immediate family would have forged personal relationships with God. The Living Stones lecture sought to convince the audience to preserve these relics of our past, as the National Trust would have us do, even as the Cathedral is in dire need of repairs/renovations. According to Dr. Welsh, we can’t get rid of our past by destroying it, as this writer suggested the removal of one of two or both engraved slabs (whose scripts are barely legible almost poetic justice for the fact that we can’t decipher what is said on our
Petroglyphs or that they too have become illegible). These ‘slabs’, this writer said, would have been locked in his sub-conscious, and almost influenced a decision in 1971 not to be confirmed. This writer had long suspected the role played by contributors to the building of the Church — some never having set foot in SVG. The removal of the ‘slabs’ was seconded by Bishop of the Windward Islands, the Right Rev. Leopold Friday, who suggested that they and
other images be replaced by references to persons known to this generation, who contributed to emancipating our society. There is also a suggestion these relics be moved to Balliceaux as they would enhance the undeveloped Island and make it a tourist attraction. Nb. This lecture, ‘The Living Stones’, can be viewed on YouTube under the user name Jeffry Balcombe or from Monty of Vincy View. Carlyle Douglas
The Statesman and the Politician Not so Gonsalves who refused the PM’s invitation for himself and wife to point of sending his own personal form part of the State’s delegation to congratulatory cable to Mitchell, Portugal’s Expo 1998. The Gonsalves notwithstanding his close ties to family would have represented the Ralph. finest example of the progress made Generally speaking, the “the crisis by Portuguese descendants in these of governance” is a figment of the parts. ULP’s own imaginings. So, whereas on the other hand the Clearly, what the ULP seeks to do claim is for fresh elections to remove with its blackmailing popular an “illegitimate Government” that is majority, is to form the government on afflicted with crisis of governance, on the defensive back-seat drive, and the other hand, business of eventually call the shots so they end Government seems to be proceeding up wielding actual power while the normally despite the cries of “ NDP is reduced to being mere officebusiness as usual”. holders. So, Dr. Gonsalves preaches Indeed, the opposition has begun its peace while practising war, to ensure slow retreat. Increasingly, the talk of that there is no “business as usual”. fresh election has receded from a six So far, on the other hand, Mitchell months time frame to one year. has been a model of propriety and Further incremental extensions are statesmanship. NDP supporters have sure to follow until the end of 2003, all been kept back from counterthings being equal”. demonstrations which can trigger an The forgoing article, written 22 incident or provoke disturbances. years ago, demonstrates that Ralph is Mitchell congratulated the opposition interested in power at all costs. First on their return to the House, but there to win and second, to keep the record was a reciprocity of sentiments. number of years. He would stop at And he offered the Deputy Speaker nothing to accomplish his feat. position to the ULP which was flatly Indeed a pandemic can be made a turned down. gift. While the hope is that he secure 5 Rain falling, the PM graciously in a row. Nothing, absolutely nothing, offered Beache a ride in his official car must stand between him and the at the funeral of the former GG, Sir aspiration. David Jack, which Beache accepted. Continued from Page 8.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2020. 27.
Classifieds
BARBARA ESTELLA BROWNE
SISTER CORNIS SPROTT
Arnos Vale Church of the Nazarene Wednesday, 25th March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
Faith Temple Church, New Montrose Monday, 23rd March, 2020 Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
KETUM DRUCILLA WILLIAMS New Life Prayer Tabernacle Church South Rivers Sunday, 22nd March, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Park Hill Cemetery
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Mt. Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Vermont Sunday, 22nd March, 2020 Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:30 p.m. Interment: Penniston Cemetery
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FRIDAY,
MARCH 27, 2020
VOLUME 114, No.13
www.thevincentian.com
EC$1.50
SOCIAL DISTANCING BEING IGNORED The Head Table at the opening ceremony of the Union Island Satellite Warehouse.
ONE DAY after Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Simone Keizer-Beache reiterated the call for social-distancing
as a practical measure to help contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, there was stark disregard for the call by government personnel here. Foremost among the defaulters were Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, and National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) Director Michelle Forbes. The two were among government officials attending the opening ceremony for the satellite warehouse on Union Island in the Southern Grenadines. On Sunday, March 22, 2020, the day before the opening of the warehouse, Dr KeizerBeache called in to interactive programme on WE FM to make a contribution. A recent function at the Central Leeward She reiterated that Secondary School.
this country had one case of COVID19, and the aim was to keep it at that number or as close to one as possible. She noted social-distancing “is exactly what we want to focus on going forward. “We know that a lot of persons have been coming home, and we’re also aware that the likelihood of another imported case still remains, even as flights to St Vincent decrease because of decisions made outside of St Vincent, but also because of the steps we are taking in terms of increasing quarantine requirements,” Dr KeizerBeache said. She stressed that the state — all the people — needed now to focus on the whole idea of social-distancing, a practice of maintaining that at least three feet distance between each other. “We are a society, a people, we like to be in grouping — it’s deep in us. However, we need to also understand that inclination might be risky, particularly risky at this time. And so, we want persons to start thinking about it and to also start practising
social-distancing”, Dr. Keizer-beache advised. She encouraged the scaling down of numbers at church services, among other mass gathering events. The CMO said that while it is good to be together, people do not always have to be together physically. “We have a responsibility, the leaders have a responsibility, and the members of the congregation have responsibilities, too,” the CMO said. Social distancing is one of the basic measures proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in combatting the dreaded disease. The WHO states: “Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing”. Why? When someone coughs or sneezes, they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
STOP OVERLOADING MINIBUSES
PRIME MINISTER and Minister of National Security Dr Ralph Gonsalves has issued a warning to minibus operators to cease overloading their buses immediately. They have also been
urged to observe advisories issued by state authorities in respect of social distancing, as one of the measures aimed at preventing or containing the spread of the COVID-19.
The Prime Minister issued the warning during his national address on the COVID19m which was broadcast live on various local radio stations on Wednesday night. “I am strongly advising, and I want my Minibuses here have been notorious for the overloading of buses across all routes.
friends in the Minibus Association, the minibus operators to hear what I’m saying. I am not just advising. I am strongly advising that the minibus operators to be very sensitive to the matter of over-crowding on these buses and cease it forthwith. Let’s have some responsibility in that regard,” the Prime Minister said. Dr Gonsalves said minibuses must be sanitized and cleaned on an on-going basis, to militate against the
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
possibility of spreading the virus. “There are those who may be saying the Prime Minister is talking, but what can he do? “There are things we can do and you won’t be on the road. I don’t want to do that. I want us to cooperate with one another,” he said. The Prime Minister referenced the society as a democratic one, and as such, therefore, he preferred to allow opportunity “to build
consensus on all these things because I don’t want to heavy-hand. “I want us all to be responsible and we work sensibly in going forward. That is the best way,” the Prime Minister said. Dr Gonsalves appealed to passengers to “act sensibly to protect yourselves, given the requisite of personal or social distancing and the practice of good hygiene in the fight against COVID-19.”
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