FRIDAY,
NOVEMBER 29, 2019
VOLUME 113, No.44
www.thevincentian.com
Stop the Four shootings in spread of HIV 24 hours Page 13 Page 4
Local movie released Page 17
EC$1.50
SVG gets national wear Page 18
Police officer on rape charge Page 32
TOUGH SENTENCES... BUT DAMAGE DONE At the Sentencing Hearing, Justice Brian Cottle, highlighted as a major THE PSYCHOLOGICAL aggravating factor the negative impact WOUNDS on the incident has had on the Tourism ‘yachties’ Mark product up to today. He outlined that Beisar and Christina Beisar stopped sailing the Caribbean Curtin, both of St. following the incident, his engagement Croix, as well as the with Curtin ended, and there has been damage done to the a decline in the arrival of ‘yachties’ to tourism industry Union Island. here, may never be The perception of Union Island has healed, despite changed with persons here and abroad heavy prison now describing it as unsafe for sentences handed tourists, Cottle proffered. down on the two Cottle took on board the ages of the men who viciously men at the time of the incident, as a attacked and mitigating factor, but contended that wounded the couple the aggravating factors outweighed the aboard the yacht mitigating ones. ‘Rainbow’, six years The men were unable to receive any ago. discount on their sentences, as the Such were the matter went through a full trial. They sentiments derived were facing life imprisonment for both L-R: Jeromie Jordan was held out as a thief by his from the summation the aggravated burglary and causing island colleagues, and residents of Union Island of Justice Brian grievous bodily harm, but Cottle, described Enard Douglas as a violent person. Cottle as he handed applying sentencing guidelines, used down sentences on 10 years as a starting point for each sentence for burglary. Jeromie ‘JJ” Jordan and Enard ‘Baptis’ offence. The cutlass attack on the ‘yachtie’s Douglas, at the Criminal Assizes on Malicious wounding carries a was committed around 8pm on October Friday, November 22. maximum penalty of 14 years, but the 3, 2013, off Frigate Rock, Union The men were each sentenced to 15 Island, where the yacht was anchored. Judge used a starting point of six years in prison for causing grievous years for the offence. Douglas was 15 and Jordan 16 at bodily harm with intent to Curtin, 14 years for aggravated burglary, and five the time of the incident. Continued on Page 3. A nine-member mixed jury found years for maliciously wounding Beison, the men guilty on all counts on the yacht’s captain. Right: Justice Brian Cottle was The sentences will run concurrently. October 25 this year, but sentencing telling in his comments regarding was adjourned pending Social Inquiry As such therefore, they will each serve how the offence against two Reports. Both men were a sentence of 15 years, with 30 days ‘yachties’ had tarnished the unrepresented. deducted from Douglas’ sentence for image of the country and Union time spent on remand. Island in particular, tourist Basis for Sentencing Jordon is currently serving a destinations. by HAYDN HUGGINS
2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 3.
News 3
Sexual Assault cases down AS PER STATISTICS provided by the Royal SVG Police Force, reported cases of sexual assault in 2018 (223) showed a decrease over 2017 (264). However, Minister with responsibility for the Family and Gender Affairs, - Frederick Stephenson — told Parliament last Tuesday that his ministry and the government were concerned about the number of reported cases of genderbased violence. He was at the time responding to a question by the Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, St Clair Leacock in Parliament on Tuesday. According to Stephenson, indecent assault accounted for the highest of all the reported incidents which occurred over a period that spanned 2015 — 2018. “It is not my intention to downplay this social issue. One case of rape is one case too many,” he said. He noted that the government Frederick Stephenson, Minister of The Family and Gender Affairs, admitted the cases of gender-based violence were of paramount concern to his Ministry.
recently gave the approval for speak up, he added. revisions of the Sexual Offences Act Support services are also made within the Criminal Code, and that available to victims of gender-based there was already some legislative violence through the Ministries of reform of the Family Laws born out of Education and Health, and Marion the legislative reform project that House. formed part of the wider judiciary and The assistance offered varies, he legal reform project, of the Eastern said, including therapeutic Caribbean Supreme Court in 2001. interventions, social protection, From this, Stephenson said that a empowerment sessions and emergency suite of legislation had been drafted and short term shelter. (DD) locally to address key issues, with the only one left being the Child Justice Bill. But although the government would have taken steps to pass laws, develop policies and implement programmes as a response to child abuse and domestic abuse, they remain some Continued from Frontpage. of the most prevalent human rights violations Cottle stressed that the offences were committed in our country, at night, cutlasses were used, and the incident Stephenson admitted. could have easily been fatal. He noted that the It was for that reason that various departments traumatized victims had to wait some six years for the matter to be completed. within his ministry had Curtin had received chop wounds to the face and intensified efforts to shoulder, while Beisar was struck in the head. encourage persons to The attackers jumped overboard and swam ashore after Beisar used a knife to stab blindly as he proceeded up the dark pathway to the cockpit, resulting in Douglas sustaining a wound. The incident was one of several yacht burglaries in the Grenadines to be reported around that period.
Tough sentences... but damage done
Gov’t ends lease with Seafarers Group GOVERNMENT HAS TERMINATED its lease with Seafarers Shipyard Group Ltd., who had taken over the operations at the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves disclosed this in Parliament on Tuesday, saying additionally that government had tried to assist the group by trying to get some local persons to take over the operations of the facility. Government was unsuccessful in this regard, and the lease was terminated on October 31, 2019. The news of the termination of the lease came some three months since the Prime Minister announced in Parliament that Seafarers Shipyard group had failed to meet its rent obligation to the state, and that government had intended to take legal action. Dr. Gonsalves said that the company made payments in 2016 and 2018 that was short of the amount, and paid nothing in 2017. As of July, the company owed
Previous records Both men had previous convictions: Douglas for the theft of a gun, burglary, and did community service earlier for other offences; Jordon for offences of ammunition possession and burglary. Residents viewed Douglas as violent and dishonest. He was said to have had an early history of being physically abused. Jordan was expelled from school for fighting and is said to have stolen money and other items from his household when he was 8. Residents described him as a thief and menace to society. His mother said he had the propensity for drinking, gambling and stealing. The operation of the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard has once again resorted to the hands of the state-owned Ottley Hall and Marina Shipyard Company, PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (Inset) told parliament. government This, he said, worsened the EC$30,000 for structural integrity of the dock this year. which had already been compromised because of the lack Damaged dry of proper maintenance. dock And in response to a question posed by Leader of the Opposition Financial woes were Dr. Godwin Friday as to when not the only things and how the problem with the dry plaguing the operations at Ottley dock was going to be addressed, Hall. Dr. Gonsalves said the stateDr. Gonsalves told Parliament owned Ottley Hall and Marina that he had been advised that on Shipyard Company was now September 17, 2019, the dry dock making an assessment of the at the Marina and Shipyard had extent of the damage, so as to suffered extensive damage to its arrive at an estimated cost for foundation as a result of a tidal repairs, which will entail extensive works. (DD) surge.
SVG bans plastic shopping bags Continued from Backpage. ample time to sensitize the general public about the environmental impact of single-use plastic; and for individuals to source more sustainable alternatives to plastic shopping bags and containers. The health minister explained the impetus behind the ban, saying that a recent report by the World Bank showed that the region generated the highest amount of plastic waste in the world, and that the amount of plastic that ends up on the beaches across St Vincent and the Grenadines is more than the region’s average. With this ban, “… we expect the pollution of streets, drains, beaches and landfills of SVG by plastic shopping bags, to end on the August 1, 2020,” Browne declared, even as he pointed to similar action being taken with respect to plastic bottles and caps.
V
4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
State to appeal gun, ammo sentences possession of various calibres of ammunition. THE OFFICE OF THE The sentences, handed DIRECTOR of Public down by Chief Prosecutions (DPP) Magistrate Rechanne intends to appeal the Browne, will run penalties handed down in concurrently, which a major gun and means that Mathias will ammunition case at the only serve three years Serious Offences Court on and five months behind Tuesday. bars. Senior Prosecutor Mathias had pleaded Adolphus Delpleche gave guilty to all the charges the Court oral notice of at the Serious Offences appeal in the case of 58- Court last week Tuesday, year-old contractor and but sentencing was farmer Sealy Mathias, of adjourned to Friday, Arnos Vale, who began a November 22, then prison term of three further adjourned to years and five months on Tuesday, November 26. Tuesday, for possession The Chief Magistrate without licences, of two described the charges as firearms and 406 rounds extremely serious, and of ammunition. pointed out that the Sealy was sentenced Court of Appeal had to three years and five reinforced this point in months for possession of all cases of a similar a .40 Smith and Wesson nature. pistol, three years and In highlighting the five months for having a aggravating factors, 12-guage shotgun, and Browne stressed the time received sentences of day Mathias was ranging from four found in possession of months to three years on the .40 pistol, loaded each of ten charges of with ten rounds of by HAYDN HUGGINS
ammunition. She made reference to the facts, which stated that it was Police Constable 43 Kason Deroche who had gone to investigate a vehicular accident at Stubbs, involving Mathias’ vehicle. Mathias was behaving in a manner which aroused PC Deroche’s suspicion. He then conducted a search of the vehicle, revealing the loaded gun in a black leather bag on the back seat. Mathias was taken into custody, and further investigations led to the discovery of the 12-guage shotgun and 396 rounds of ammunition, at a house at Arnos Vale occupied by Mathias. Browne stressed the large quantity of ammunition for an unlicensed holder, and that it was more than one firearm. She noted that the guns were loaded, and referred to the way the ammunition
Four shootings in 24 hours It was near a stampede, one observer said, when, during the usual Friday night “lime” at Heritage Square, shots rang out causing patrons to run in various directions. The Police have confirmed that their investigation into the shooting has not yet to an arrest, but they are soldiering on with optimism. Meanwhile swift action led to the arrest of Shammai Hazell of Bequia, in relation to a shooting that occurred in Canouan last Saturday morning. Hazell is alleged to have shot Judson Jacobs of mainland St. Vincent. He appeared at the Serious Offences Court in Kingstown on Monday facing two charges: unlawfully and maliciously wounding Jacobs Persons, even a Police Officer, closed in on where with intent; and while armed with a gun, robbing Jacobs of Kurtland Jack (inset) lay EC$10,000. after being shot. THE VINCENTIAN understands that the $10,000 OF THE THREE which was in Jacobs’ possession was to MALES WHO be used to purchase conch as he is sustained gunshot accustomed doing. injuries during a shooting incident at THE VINCENTIAN also Heritage Square last week Friday understands that Jacobs remains a night, two have been discharged from patient at the MCMH and is said to and one remains warded at the Milton have lost feeling from his shoulders to Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). his toes. Auxiliary Police Officer Kurtland Hazell, on objection to bail by Jack, who is said to have received two Senior Prosecutor Adolphus shots, remains warded but is said to Delplesche, was remanded into be in a stable condition. He was custody until December 2 when he wounded in his upper body, one source would return to Court for bail review. said. (KH)
was concealed at the house. The fact that Mathias had no previous conviction was considered as a mitigating factor. He was not granted the one third discount on his sentence, as he did not plead guilty at the first available opportunity. He was instead granted a reduction of a quarter. Mathias had been jointly charged with his female companion Francelia Thomas, and they had both pleaded not guilty initially, but Mathias decided to take the rap last week Tuesday.
‘Soups’ granted bail AFTER CLOSE TO THREE WEEKS on remand on an attempted murder charge, 34year-old Glen resident Lejah ‘Soups’ Alexander has been granted bail. Alexander has been charged with the attempted murder of Rockies resident Lionel George, who was shot in his head during an incident at Lower Middle Lejah ‘Soups’ Street, Kingstown, around 9am on Alexander November 5. Alexander was denied bail on his appearances at the Serious Offences Court November 8 and November 16, on the grounds that the victim was hospitalized with a bullet wound to the head, and was being monitored closely by doctors. However, on Alexander’s return to Court on Tuesday, the Senior Prosecutor indicated that the victim was discharged from the hospital, and he was no longer objecting to bail. He, however, requested suitable surety and conditions. Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne granted bail in the sum of $30,000, on condition that he report to the Calliaqua Police Station twice a week, and surrender his travel documents. Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he is not to leave the state without the permission of the Court. (HH)
Child molester gets 14 years A GEORGETOWN MAN was sentenced to a total of 14 years in prison on Friday, November 22, for raping a ten-year-old girl, whom he knew from a baby, and even changed her diapers. Andrew Ryan Speedwell had pleaded guilty earlier at the Criminal Assizes to two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, and one count of indecently assaulting her, but sentencing was adjourned. Speedwell was sentenced to nine years in prison for the first count of unlawful sexual intercourse, four years for the second count of unlawful sexual intercourse, and one year for indecent assault. The sentences will run consecutively.
He had committed the offences between 2012 and 2013 at a house he frequented, and where he was trusted. On the first occasion, the girl was at the house and he took her to the back of the building and had sex with her. On the second occasion, he placed her against a coconut tree and had sex with her. In relation to the indecent assault, Speedwell took the girl and another child to pick plums. He told her that he wanted to perform oral sex on her, and tried to undress her. He restrained himself after the child screamed. Speedwell was 29 at the time of the incident, while the child was ten. She contracted a sexually transmitted
infection and had to undergo serious surgery. According to the Social Inquiry Report, the child was subjected to much verbal abuse in the community after the matter was reported, some accusing her of giving consent. This resulted in her having suicidal thoughts. The surgery has left a scar on her stomach, reminding her of what happened. Unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13 carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, while Indecent Assault carries a maximum penalty of five years. Twenty-four days were deducted from Speedwell’s sentence for time spent on remand. (HH)
Man remanded in Petit Bordel stabbing A PETIT BORDEL MAN was denied bail at the Serious Offences Court on Monday on a wounding with intent charge, after his victim was hospitalized in critical condition. Shahid Stapleton, 22, is charged with wounding Lesroy DeGrad, 29, also of Petit Bordel, with intent, stemming from a stabbing incident in that community shortly after
1pm on November 21. Stapleton was not required to plead when he was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday. In objecting to bail, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the Court, that the victim was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, suffering from two stab
wounds to the side, and was undergoing respiratory problems, resulting in a tube having to be inserted into his body to extract fluid. As a result of his condition, he has not yet undergone surgery. Delpleche asked that Stapleton be remanded at this stage, pending a prognosis on the victim. The Chief Magistrate granted the prosecutor’s request, and remanded Stapleton until December 3, when the issue of bail will be reviewed.(HH)
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 5.
V Dynamites Calypso Tent gets new President 6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
general well-being of Vincentians at home and abroad, through community outreach, via radio programmes, town halls, get-togethers and personal visits.” He said also, that he plans to groom and urge the youths “to get involved in the calypso art form, and have the tent travel and do performances throughout the USA, Canada and the UK”. Other plans include holding early auditions, “so we would be much better prepared and would produce shows of much higher quality.” And as far as generating its own funds, the tent will (Seated L to R): Delahanty Isles, Errol ‘de Man Age’ Rose, John host bingo games, bus rides, Dougan; (Standing L to R): Hilford Hurst, Atiba Williams, among other fund-raising Garnes Byron, Dennis Bowman and Carlos ‘Rejector’ Providence. Missing from photo: - Jose Juan. (Photo courtesy: ventures, Providence promised. Dynamite Calypso Tent) Providence cites the fact that the Dynamites Calypso Story by NELSON A. KING with nationals at home and in Tent being the only foreignnaking@verizon.net; the Diaspora. kingnaking210@yahoo.com Providence, who was elected based Caribbean organization of its kind, as a very enviable US CORRESPONDENT on Nov. 10, told THE situation. “Though far away VINCENTIAN from home, we remain close CARLOS ‘REJECTOR’ in an interview, “As and thoroughly informed. So, PROVIDENCE, the newly-elected president, it is my plan that our calypsonians bring all the president of the Brooklyn-based the tent will be engaged in happenings and entertainment Dynamite Calypso Tent, says his efforts to foster a closer bond in song to Vincentians living goal is to foster a closer bond with and enhance the not just in New York but
throughout the world”, the veteran calypsonian proffered. Providence, a co-founder of the tent along with calypsonian Vincent ‘Groovie D’ Kennedy, succeeded his fellow calypsonian John “D Truth” Dougan as President. “This, in itself, is a great challenge, since he did such a good job and set the bar high in his tenure,” said Providence, disclosing that this is his 46th year in the calypso business. Providence said he started writing and performing as a student at the Kingstown Anglican School. His early achievements include capturing the Primary School Calypso Monarch in St. Vincent and the Grenadines at 13; co-founding and leading for 10 years the Ontour Calypso Tent; and capturing the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Calypso Monarch titles in 1992 and 1996. Other achievements are: Washington, D.C. Calypso Monarch in 2003 and 2005; Baltimore, MD Calypso Monarch 2005; Second Place and People’s Choice Award in Miami in 2004. Besides Providence, others elected to the Dynamite Calypso Tent executive for a
two-year term were: Atiba Williams (Vice President); Garnes Byron (Secretary); John Dougan (Treasurer); Dennis Bowman (Public Relations Officer); and Errol ‘D man Age’ Rose, Jose Juan, Hilford Hurst and Delahanty Isles (Committee Members). A post-election statement by the PRO said, “The new executive is charged with reinvigorating the tent and ensuring its viability, so it increasingly becomes a force to be reckoned with.” He said among activities that are being considered for 2020 and beyond, are a calypso symposium “to discuss the development of the art form”; and shows for the preliminary judging for Vincy Mas Calypso semifinals, Independence and Christmas, and an innovative ‘Sunday Skool’.” “The leadership highlighted the need for the Vincentian and wider Caribbean and New York Community to embrace the tent’s effort to keep this rich cultural tradition alive and to promote calypso as an important musical expression that should be embraced by everyone, especially the youth,” the statement read.
40th Independence Anniversary marked in Montreal VINCENTIANS IN MONTREAL and their Caribbean and Canadian friends assembled at Schofield Hall in Montreal on November 2, 2019, for the 54th Banquet of the St Vincent and Grenadines Association of Montreal (SVGAM), and to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the independence of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Since St. Vincent and the Grenadines became independent of England in 1979, this annual celebration has become known as the St Vincent and Grenadines Association of Montreal’s Annual Independence Banquet and Ball. Among the special attendees were: City Councillor Marvin Rotrand and his spouse Jacquie Wall; City Councillor Lionel Perez; Father Jim Bennett and his spouse Mrs. Ivor Bennett; and the keynote
speaker, the Honourable Cecil Mc Kc Kie, Minister of Tourism, Sport and Culture in the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Representatives from most of the Montreal Caribbean Associations were in attendance. Some 170 persons were present. The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Minister Mc Kie. The growth in tourism in SVG, the implantation of a state-of-the-art diagnostic centre and polyclinics in the island, and the plan to exploit St Vincent’s geothermal resources and thereby reduce its dependence on fossil fuel of driven electricity, were among the highlights of his address. And in keeping with its tradition of recognising persons whose contributions to the SVGAM have been outstanding, the 2019
Cecil Mc Kie, Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture, delivering the keynote address at the Banquet/Ball. smoothly and without a dull moment, primarily because of the emcee (L-R): Abigail Dick, Member-at-large/SVGAM, Porshah Cockburn - SVG skills of Mr Tony Hadley. Association Awardee, A. N. ‘Jack’ Dear -President SVGAM, Rosmond Ryan Not to be overlooked - V.P. SVGAM, Sylvan (Herbie) Inniss - SVGAM Community Awardee and was the work of the Angela Gurley P.R.O./SVGAM. organizing committee: Mr Alfred (Jack) Dear, to the Vincy Unity SVG Association Award Inniss. Mr Inniss is of Ms Rosmond Ryan, Ms recipient was made to Guyanese origin. In his Picnic. Jackie Parris, Ms Nicole Entertainment was Mrs. Porshah Cockburn. role as Commissioner of John, Ms Abigail Dick, Oaths, he has been of provided by singer Ms In its outreach to Ms Angela Gurley, Ms Lenore Ralph and DJ sister organisations, the invaluable service to Roxanne Cambridge, Mr New Concept Crew. The Leo St Hillaire, and Ms Vincentians and West SVGAM extended its caterer was Best Bite. Community Award to Indians as a whole, and Maria Montano. (Source: The evening rolled on SVGAM) Mr. Sylvan (Herbie) has contributed selflessly
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 7.
News
Digicel wants you to shake All of this and there is drawn on Saturday, a Grand Prize of Family 21st December at Pack (4 Samsung J4 6:00pm. (WKA) PLUS phones, 1 Year free services for 4 family Digicel rolled out members and a 50 their Christmas Samsung TV), to be promotion with a street parade.
Persons signing up so they could be eligible to participate in the promotion. (Photos: Digicel Facebook page) CUSTOMERS OF DIGICEL here in line for some goodies this Christmas season. Up to December 31, Digicel service users can win prizes in the Digicel ‘Shake To Win Christmas Promotion’, which was rolled out last Friday with a grand street parade which culminated at Heritage Square, where Santa was more than willing to hand out rewards. To participate in the promotion, customers will be required to shake their phones via the Shake It gaming mechanism in the My Digicel App.
Each participating customer will have an opportunity to win prizes daily and weekly. To be eligible to participate, a person must be a Digicel customer with an active Digicel prepaid and/or postpaid bundle or plan from the selection of “Eligible Plans”on offer from Digicel. This includes customers who activate a new Eligible Plan during the promotional period as well as customers on an existing Eligible Plan. Up to $50,000 is on offer, including an additional $20,000 for the regional winner.
Another Digicel customer rewarded.
V
8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 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
South River Road/ Heritage Square TO MARK THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY of the change of Carnival from a PreLenten Festival to a June-July one, the Carnival Development Committee (CDC), as it was known then, proposed, in the post-Ricks era, to add some organization to what was developing at South River Road, since renamed Heritage Square – quite a misnomer if there was ever one. The proposal made provision for the erection of specially designed booths for rent to food and drinks operators, smaller booths for use by crafts persons and artisans generally, seating (locally crafted benches), a stage for live performances and one music system. There was going to be NO ICE BOX VENDORS. The idea was well received by the police, and there was indication that support was forthcoming from the private sector. Unfortunately, the administration of the day, (Should we say the head of the administration of the day, to be more precise?), was not as encouraging: “Al yo want to take food out of people mouth… al yo definitely not politicians.” And that was as truthful as you could get; members of the CDC did not have to answer to the voters. But there was a particularly significant observation during this whole discourse. Discussions with the police, William Harry being the front man, were to throw up that observation — one that, given what South River Road/our Heritage Square has become, and given the activities there — both on an ongoing basis and more intermittent activities - keeps coming back to mind. It was Harry, who would become Commissioner of Police in later years, who gave a sterling account of how South River Road/Heritage Square was an extremely difficult area for his men and women to surveille. Surveillance of the area, he said, was quite a challenge, if ever there was one. How many incidents of shooting, brandishing of weapons, acts of aggression, arguments that morph into more exacting frays, have we had since South River Road was renamed and transformed with the ‘blessings’ of Government? Now, for the sake of curbing any misunderstanding, this Column recognizes the usefulness of open spaces, as South River Road/Heritage Square can be described. Public open spaces are vital elements of the urban fabric. They are appropriate spaces for staging cultural gatherings or even political ones. A public open space is the place where anyone with any background is invited. It is where most socio-cultural events spontaneously happen rather than being pre-planned. The place gives people an opportunity to mix with others, move around, sit alone or together, and watch other groups. This public open space is free for everybody and does not impose any dress codes or scripts. There are a lot of surprises and unexpected pleasures happening in such a place. But even as we say that, we have to be cognizant of how our society has evolved — how it has been transformed by expressions of social interaction that are no longer, for example, characterized by shaking hands to end a disagreement. Open spaces, by their very nature, therefore, are open to all and sundry — the good, the bad and the indifferent. This country is overrun by guns — the majority illegally possessed. This cannot be simply ignored, especially when it is noted that the guns are often in the hands of those who cannot afford them, but who, it appears, are prone to act on instructions by otherwise invisible wheelers and dealers. The point is that it is time to take a hard and intent look at what we have allowed South River Road/Heritage Square, one of the last open spaces in capital Kingstown, to become. We need to revisit what William Harry had offered as an observation which is as profound today as it was twenty-two years ago. Are we politically willed enough to correct our error?
Darkest Time is the Hour Before Sunrise- Keep Faith “THE PRIME MINISTER knows very well the course of politics in SVG. He has reason to believe that he has all but lost the next elections. The ULP has been caught in quicksand. The more he and his cronies wriggle, the deeper they sink in the quagmire, seemingly a cesspool of corruption. But the old belief in the venality of the electorate still energizes him. The view of the crisis as having been caused by outside forces has limited appeal, if any at all. The IMF has stated clearly that most of our local problems are domestically generated. It is not as in the old days, when Ralph’s mouthpiece, “Freedom” or “Justice” can simply lump all his problems as “IMF is Mitchell Fault”. Now he has to stand up on his weakening feet, and face the music squarely. The frantic attempt to “buy votes” by huge public works will avail nothing. Too little, too late shall be the cry. The electorate has grown up over the last 15 years, with their venality diminished by harsh experiences. They now consult their own interest, as with the clever call-off of the van strike, in Central Kingstown, as they monitor the current situation. The ULP Government has taken a severe beating in having to defer to the wishes of the “lowly” van drivers. Still, the electorate, which has wised up over the years, will not cut off their nose to spite the face! That is the pattern from here on, no blind opposition to ULP action, but measured responses to their chicanery, until Redemption Day. I noticed that in his politically crafted 35th Anniversary speech, the Prime Minister hinted broadly that the time was drawing near for the selection of a complement of National Heroes, which is likely to be the quartet of George Mc Intosh, Ebenezer Joshua, Milton Cato and Dr. Pamenous Eustace. I go along merrily with 75 percent of the choice, but object strongly to the inclusion of Milton Cato, with the support of Oscar Allen, Cecil “Blazer” Williams and Jomo Thomas - all friendly disposed to the Prime Minister. In fact, in the case of Jomo, who is at present a ULP senator and prospective ULP candidate for South Leeward in the next election, he had actually resigned from a commission to pick the likely heroes, to which he had been appointed the Chairman by Ralph. Jomo’s beef was that Ralph, who is constitutionally empowered to recommend the final choice(s), flaunted the regulations in publicising his selection, Cato. How now will Jomo and company react to Ralph’s exposure on Independence Day
2014 in the presence of the Governor General, and hordes of Vincentians! Ralph, for all his democratic facade, makes it plain who is the boss of the plantation, of Government and country! The reason that Ralph is so hung on Cato, has absolutely nothing to do with “heroism”. It has all to do with politics in general and next elections in particular, as l have repeatedly declared in various fora. The real problem stems from the fact that Dr. Gonsalves sees as crucial to his return to power, victory of his son Camillo, in the East St George constituency over Dr. Linton Lewis of the NDP. And he must have calculated the results of the next elections, his best returns are possibly 10 to 5, counting the East St George seat of Camillo, who he hopes to replace him in due course as Prime Minister. Therefore, he wants to capitalise on Cato being a National Hero for the enhancement of Camillo’s chance at the polls. In any event, the Prime Minister seems to be day-dreaming, since the 2015 polls will record an NDP victory of no less than 10 to 5, in which Camillo will be a casualty. Frankly, the game is up. Ralph will have little to be ashamed of, having been three times PM in a row -2001, 2005 and 2010. Only Mitchell and arguably Ebenezer Joshua have done better than him. Significantly, Ralph will leave a sad divided country, given his style of politics marked by a rage of victimisation. And his economic policy included many broken promises: Cross country road, the new Sports Centre, several failed fishing projects, a badly flawed housing programme, and an airport hanging in the balance. True, there are a few positives in the mix, but they are grossly over-shadowed by the rampant corruption and flagrant victimisation that characterised the regime. Ring the Bell!” APPENDUM: This article was obviously written before ULP’s 4th election victory which, owing to the Laws of delay, is still hanging in the balance for nearly 5 years. But to jump ahead during this Christmas season with anniversaries, Christmas cheer and such-like, we have a brief pause in the political turmoil. Come January next year, we face new times and prospect of a new era, once we keep our focus. Which we will.
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 9.
Letters
The Debate Rages On
THE KIND OF SOCIETY in which we and our children must live, is determined, among other things, by behaviours and relationships formed privately by others than ourselves. This in itself does not give legislators the right to prohibit visiting relationships and divorce. As Christians, we recognise that all norms and values can be conserved by legislation, but that is not always desirable. Martin Luther King Jr. puts it more precisely in another context: “Morality cannot be legislated, but behaviour can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless… the habits, if not the hearts of people, have been and are being altered every day by legislative acts, judicial decisions and executive orders.” What this does mean is that our legislators must inevitably decide on some moral issues. Wassertrom had this to say: “They must decide whether the institutions which seem threatened are sufficiently valuable to protect at the cost of human freedom. And they must decide whether the practices which threaten that institution are immoral, for if they are, then the freedom of an individual to pursue them counts for less.” This in no way claims that immorality or offending Christian sensitivity is sufficient to make conduct illegal; it argues, rather, that on occasion, it is necessary to deem it thus. But how shall a legislator decide whether an act is moral or immoral in our community? At present, some 89% of our population claim allegiance to a Christian denomination. Some of the legislators are non-Christians. Furthermore, liberal notions fueled by individualism, inform the thinking and actions of some of our more a few things educated people in about Health parliament. Care: Consequently, the Bible and religious principles Is it a policy to lack force in shaping profile families who judicial decisions and might have a statutes. If it happens, relative warded at however, that the the Milton Cato majority of our Memorial Hospital population is agreed (MCMH)? upon a course of action, Is it that health even though a small personnel look at a minority may dissent, family and decide the legislator has a duty they (family) can to act on the consensus. afford to buy or For in the final analysis, provide the our laws must rest on medication and all some principle, whether other requisites Christian or (except the bed) that utilitarianism or some their sick relative other alternative. The needs? community must take Is this Robin the moral responsibility, Hood approach and it must therefore act (take from the rich on its own rights — that to help the poor) to is, on the moral beliefs of tertiary level health its members. care the great As Christians, our health policy and theology and history programme about make it clear that which the ULP persons can resist boasts? Are these persons adopting ‘un-Christian’ who are perceived legislations, even when as being able to ‘pay there is very great social for’ their relative’s or political pressure to care at the MCMH do so. But the crucial not the ones who issues for Christians will are already paying always be whether and taxes every single how people are being month of the year? hurt or will be hurt by a Is the national piece of legislation. policy one of skinning bar the Very Rev'd O Samuel ‘tax-paying’ workers Nichols, of this country? Dean of the St. George's Cathedral, Kingstown
Agriculture export/ food security in SVG ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, it appears, is now into the export of cattle and swine to at least one of our neighbours in the region. However, the question is how much more value could these have added if these animals were slaughtered at home and sold in a processed and packaged form? How much more could we have gained from prime cut meats as opposed to shipping live animals? Would the storage have added more cost? On the other hand, if there is a ready market, should these not have been sold quite easily?
Justice for LGBTs FOR OVER 60 YEARS, the Caribbean has upheld old colonial laws against LGBTs, whilst our former colonial masters have passed new laws in their countries towards embracing LGBTs, declaring in so doing that anti-LGBT laws were inhumane. In the spirit of what is right and just, the churches desist from trampling on God’s law and on the government of St.Vincent and the Grenadines to acknowledge that our current laws against LGBT are inhumane, and to continue same is to deny the inherent rights of humans simply because of their sexual orientation . LGBTs aren't saying they want to broadcast their sex life on the airwaves; they are merely asking for us as a people to accept who they choose to be as humans. We ought to protect them and permit them to exist in harmony amongst all walks of life. I call on PM Dr. Ralph E Gonsalves to abolish undereducated, misinformed laws pertaining to LGBTs. Kadmiel McFee British War Veteran
Added to this, the scarcity of beef has already led to an increase in the price of food at home. Whereas a roti was once $10EC, it is now $12EC. How are Vincentians to cope when we cannot secure the availability of food nor prices within our own country? The aim of exportation of products is to gain money within our country, and while the average Vincentian cannot afford to purchase prime cut meats, if we are to export, let's always get optimum value for products. We are far beyond the stage where we are primarily involved in exportation of raw materials; and much
more should be done to encourage small business development in the agricultural sector. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a lot of potential, but there needs to be the enabling environment to foster growth and not just of the big farmers. While I applaud the Minister of Agriculture for his export initiative and as we diversify into other areas of goods for export, as we look towards the future, let's ensure that the availability of quality goods and prices at home remain a priority. And let's develop our industries to the level of offering processed products not simply raw
materials, and encourage the development of small businesses. Concerned Citizen
V
10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Excerpt from the 2019 Budget Address
Partnership with the Private Sector (Reprinted from April 2019) Introduction commercial actors to overcome the challenges of sand importation, so that we can extend our ban on sand mining nationwide. We expect the corporate sector to partner with the Government in the clean-up of Kingstown and the development of Rose Place and its environs in advance of the modern cargo port. Last year, we reduced corporate income tax to new lows, a trend we hope to advance in coming years. The Government also enjoined the local private sector in our successful battle to ensure that Vincentian traders in Partnership with the Private Sector Trinidad and Tobago would be able to receive foreign exchange for their Fundamental to the philosophy of Trinidadian earnings. We also this Government is that an active, commenced discussions with local entrepreneurial State is a positive and private sector entities on the optimal necessary actor in the economies of use of the old ET Joshua terminal small Caribbean countries. We do not subscribe to the Washington Consensus- building, and hope for a mutually profitable conclusion to those orthodoxy of a minimalist state, ceding the delivery of all goods and services to discussions in 2019. In October 2018, InvestSVG hosted a hypothetical, monolithic, infallible the five-day Everything Vincy Plus “private sector” that neither exists Expo, which attracted 2,500 visitors per within the context of our limited day to engage with the 127 exhibitors on markets nor demonstrates a sustained site. In addition to strong in-Expo sales, and sufficient willingness to innovate over 30 exhibitors secured new orders — and compete in the interest of the including orders to supply overseas public. We hold fast to the ethos that buyers. Others, like 15 of our local there is a role for the State to play — fashion designers, were invited to albeit circumscribed and prudent — display their products in overseas beyond the delivery of a narrow list of markets. public goods. To think otherwise, in This year, in addition to expanding small, resource-constrained economies like ours, is to subscribe to an ill-fitting and improving the Expo, InvestSVG will dogma that has no successful precedent host an investment forum to provide more information on the opportunities in our region. and incentives available in Saint However, precisely because we see Vincent and the Grenadines. Within the the economy as important enough to Ministry of Finance, a Doing Business require our active participation, we Unit will be established to address not acknowledge an even greater responsibility to actively encourage and only the indicators that contribute to the World Bank’s theoretical Ease of facilitate the work of existing Doing Business Index, but the more businesses, foreign investors, and local practical impediments to actual entrepreneurs who can contribute business establishment and operation in meaningfully to national growth and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. development. That facilitation goes The health of the Vincentian economy beyond the broader macroeconomic is directly and causally connected to the levers that all governments have at health of our private sector. We view the their disposal. It extends to sustained, often bespoke efforts to court and assist private sector as partners in, and drivers of, employment, growth and business growth and establishment within the confines of the law and good development. Budget 2019 is replete with initiatives that provide both direct practice. and indirect benefits to the Vincentian private sector. These include Renewal New Business Opportunities @40, the modernisation of customs procedures to facilitate quicker times to This year, our solicitation and clear shipments, technical innovations facilitation of new business to NIS and the Inland Revenue opportunities will lead to major growth Department, new crime fighting tools in the Vincentian private sector. In and initiatives, measures to facilitate an addition to the previously-mentioned influx of additional tourists, hotel investors, we will welcome the establishment of the Clear Harbor call enhancement of operations at the Argyle centre in Kingstown, which has concrete International Airport, renewable energy plans to hire hundreds of young initiatives to make the cost of energy Vincentians over the next two years. cheaper and more predictable, Rainforest Seafoods45 will establish a enhancements to our road and ICT facility at Calliaqua that will purchase infrastructure, and initiatives in millions of dollars of fish and lobster fisheries and agriculture, including the from local fisherfolk. launching of the medicinal cannabis The local entrepreneurs behind One industry. Caribbean Airlines, buoyed by the Preliminary data from the National establishment of the AIA and the Insurance Services indicate that the success of their niche-filling service, will number of Active Employers has add another aircraft to their fleet. We rebounded to exceed pre-crisis levels, rely on local private investors to and is 24% higher than the Active continue building new apartments to Employers on record in 2000. We fully house our growing population of foreign expect our talented and entrepreneurial medical students, now numbering over private sector to take advantage of the 1,000. We depend on — and have promising opportunities in the incentivised — the purchase of new Vincentian economy and the initiatives vehicles and boats to carry our rapidly- in Budget 2019 to record further growth expanding cruise tourists on their in the medium term. excursions. We count on other NO GOVERNMENT IN THE HISTORY of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been as supportive of the domestic private sector, like the ULP administration. The ULP has introduced a number of business friendly measures, in its 18 years of government, all aimed at promoting and developing the private sector. Below we publish an excerpt from the 2019 budget address of the Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves, in which he sets out the ongoing partnership with the private sector.
The Importance of Private Sector Development THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) is seeking to secure a strong and sustainable economy for every single citizen. One of the major strategies we will utilize towards this goal is private sector development. Private sector development will draw upon private investment, which is a proven engine of economic growth and poverty reduction. Tremendous benefits can be derived from private sector development. These include: increased national income, sustainable employment, stable economic growth, competitive markets, higher standard of living, infrastructural development, consumer cost savings and wealth creation and distribution. The Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime appears not to understand this basic fact. Evidence of this is seen through government’s ill-advised policies, and the fact that this government owes the private sector an enormous amount which has accumulated to millions of dollars; a crippling burden for a private sector already weighed down by some of the highest energy prices in the Caribbean. The NDP recognizes that improving government policies and behavior will not only shape the investment climate and drive private sector development; it will also drive overall economic growth and improve opportunities for everyone. We will therefore provide a range of incentives and supports to encourage private sector development, and above all, create the stable and predictable macro-economic and social environment that will encourage investment. In order to foster private sector development, the NDP seeks to focus on creating an attractive investment climate. Therefore, the NDP will establish a Ministry of the Private Sector to facilitate the development and expansion of private industry in general. The role of the Ministry of the Private Sector will identify and seek to develop or expand a range of direct and indirect support services for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), including: business pre-start, start-up and development assistance; business plan development and follow-up; business incubators; legal, accounting and financial services; information services including advice on government policies; advice on the effective application of information, provide communication and business technologies to the business process; offer consultancy and research services; managerial and vocational skills enhancement; promotion and development of enterprise based training. The Ministry will also work in close collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our overseas Missions, CARICOM and the Vincentian Diaspora to identify trade and export opportunities for SMEs. Moreover, we consider SMEs a critical factor in economic growth, and we will create the conditions that will enable SMEs to play a major role in entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation. In order to create the environment in which SMEs will thrive, the NDP will end the competition between government enterprises and SMEs; adopt and pursue appropriate fiscal and employment policies to promote an optimal economic environment; improve the attractiveness of entrepreneurship and remove the constraints to the development and growth of SMEs through, the establishment of a Development Bank, to provide funding and financial support for SMEs. There are also significant benefits that can be achieved through entrepreneurship. These include increasing the number of self-employed persons through the creation of quality
jobs. This new work environment will produce new economic activities; to increase the motivation and skills of the unemployed in the rural area. To actively seek and create new employment opportunities within their own communities; to ensure an equitable distribution of wealth though all sectors of the national economy. This will lead to a reduction of poverty and the negative effects associated with poverty, and to empower people to trust in their own abilities and knowledge. And, learn the basic values and operating principles of business, thereby adopting a practical approach to the world of business. The NDP will adopt measures drawn up in consultation with representative of organization of employers and workers, to create and strengthen an enterprise culture which favours initiatives, enterprise creation, productivity, environmental consciousness, quality, good labour and industrial relations, and adequate social practices which are equitable. We will engage in pursuing the development of entrepreneurial attitudes, through the system and programmes of education, entrepreneurship and training linked to job creation needs and the attainment of economic growth and development, with particular emphasis being given to the importance of good labour relations and the multiple vocational and managerial skills needed by SMEs. In addition, we will provide technical assistance for all new and expanding enterprises, and foster strategic alliances between Vincentian and foreign companies to gain knowledge about market entry and export led activities. Also, provide access to energy, telecommunications and physical infrastructure either directly or through private sector intermediaries. As well as assist in understanding and applying labour legislation, human resource development and the promotion of gender equality, product design, development and presentation, packaging services, environmental management services, quality management, including quality testing and measurement and streamline business regulatory processes and procedures in order to substantially improve the ease of doing business in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Private sector development will improve the lives of our people, whether directly or indirectly. It will expand the variety of goods and services available and reduce their cost, to the benefit of consumers. Private sector development will create sustainable jobs and opportunities for macro and microentrepreneurs alike. Micro entrepreneur is one of the key pathways by which people can escape poverty. We will give each person the power to shape his own destiny. The resultant economic growth envisioned will also help to reduce the costs of goods to our citizens. This is especially important to those who suffer the economic burden the most. Private sector development will contribute to an expanded tax base that will allow for investment in health, education and welfare for all our people. The ULP regime is incompetent and bankrupt of ideas. The NDP has the better programmes and policies, and Vincentians can look forward to benefit tremendously from our private sector development initiative. The NDP will make St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all Vincentians.
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 11.
Views
Productivity
Be Fidel; Fidel lives
“Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.” Paul J. Meyer (1928-2009) – American author and motivational speaker. He was the founder of Success Motivation Institute Inc.
FIDEL CASTRO, one of the greatest revolutionaries of the last century, died 3 years ago on November 25, 2016. The parliament of SVG held a special session to commemorate his life and triumphs. We said then that Fidel was about to die a second death, suffocated on a mountain of nice words. What’s the last time did someone in SVG raise their voice to tell Fidel’s truth? We offer some of his thoughts, if only to show that death is not real, once one has done his life work well. ‘Now we really are telling the world what Cubans are. For a long time they slandered us. They said we were not even independent. They said we were a satellite of the USSR. Today they can verify very clearly that we are satellites of principles. We are satellites of ideas. We are satellites of an ideal, which is like a sun of justice we revolve around and will always revolve around. History has given us the opportunity to show how independent we are. History has given us the right to proclaim that today we are the most independent country on earth. ‘’But we are a revolutionary people. We have consistently applied revolutionary ideas. Because how would we have done everything we have done without socialism and revolutionary ideas? It would not have been possible. Capitalism would not have been able to achieve this, by no means. Our revolution was inspired by Marti's ideas and Marxist-Leninist ideas, in a synthesis of them. It continues to be a synthesis, and it must become more perfect, more complete, fuller. Above all, we must put a lot of emphasis now on our own ideas, Cuban ideas, Marti's ideas, without forgetting Marxism and Leninism for a minute. ‘It is clear that today we are involved in a battle for survival. Well, we did not do things as others did, because there may even be peoples who live through a revolutionary process and then may make so many mistakes that they bring a revolution down. A revolution is not guaranteed by the mere fact that it is genuine. Rather, under the conditions in which a revolution as advanced as the socialist revolution has to develop in today's world, it really has to act with great wisdom to be able to move forward. ‘Now, we have been forced to have even greater wisdom, and make a much greater effort, since the moment the European socialist bloc disappeared. Before that happened, our revolution was moving forward, defended by ourselves and nobody but ourselves, close to the United States. We cannot forget that in those East European socialist countries, they had Soviet tanks there more than once to save the revolution for them. Perhaps many of those revolutionaries- because I think there were sincere revolutionaries and sincere socialists in all those countriesexpected that someone would always come to save the revolution for them. ‘But we could not count on anything similar. The only tanks that would land here were Yankee tanks. If the revolution became weak, if the revolution committed serious mistakes, if the revolution lost the ideological battle, if the revolution broke with its principles, no one would come to save the Cuban revolution, and we were well aware of that from the beginning. ‘So perhaps the very fact that we are close to the United States and have had more than 100 years of history in our
ALL SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSES have developed cultures that encourage employees to produce at their maximum capability. At such enterprises, individuals develop a focus on producing more with less while maintaining good quality. They know that creating and sustaining such a culture is essential if they are to deliver top class products and excellent service. Progressive and responsible trade union leaders understand and appreciate that such initiatives are also in the best interest of their members. They join forces with the management and leadership of such enterprises to drive productivity levels up; encouraging individual excellence and teamwork. Managers and leaders in both the private and public sectors must continue to focus on enhancing productivity levels. This is considered an imperative if we are to maximize the human capacity within our workplaces. In addition, it is absolutely essential if we are to remain competitive — driving costs down and efficiencies up. We will never be able to achieve and maintain competitive advantage if we lose sight of the constant need to improve individual and corporate performance. There are many ways in which we can measure productivity levels. This is much easier to observe and monitor in the manufacturing sector. However, although more challenging, it is also possible to measure productivity levels in the service sector. In general, we need to look at how best we can produce more while investing less money, time, effort, and energy. In doing so, however, it is imperative to retain a focus on quality products and services. Such a focus is likely to wow the customers and clients. This is as true for those enterprises that offer unique products and/or services, as it is for those businesses that cater to mass buyers or clients. The need to measure performance has long been observed as crucial when seeking to create and sustain competitive advantage. Deborah Hopkins, the financial expert who was once credited for turning around Boeing in the late 1990s noted that, “If you can measure it, you can improve it.” Expressing a similar view, Peter F. Drucker (1909-2005), the Austrian-born American management consultant, lecturer, and author observed that, “If you can’t measure it you can’t manage it.” Measurement is critical if we are to improve performance in the private and public sectors. However, it is absolutely essential that managers and leaders devise systems that relay the data to the participating employees. Graphs and tables are ideal ways of doing so. It is usually quite amazing to discover how displaying such results energize participants to improve performance. The measurement of productivity levels may also capture defects, waste, and rework. All of these have a negative impact on overall
performance. Managers who focus on identifying and correcting the defects in their systems, structures, and procedures readily discover that productivity levels improve with the incremental changes made. The analysis of the data is critical in driving such positive behaviours and retaining a focus on maximizing the return on human effort, as well as the allocation of financial and mechanical resources. Data analysis (i.e. knowing the levels of performance) become critical in the thrust for greatest efficiencies. William Edwards Deming (1900-1993), the American engineer, statistician, professor, author, lecturer, and management consultant, noted that, “Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion.” Opinions and gut feelings have their place. However, there is a greater propensity for improvement when we use data. This is especially so when the data is shared with the individuals who contribute to the particular assignment. That kind of feedback motivates employees. Productivity levels can be improved when managers and supervisors dedicate the time and effort to design proper plans. Planning for improvement is a most important prerequisite for the anticipated success. Proper milestones must be identified and the participants reminded of what is expected. Such communication is imperative as efforts are made to energize participants to achieve specific goals. Even non-engineers may find it useful to use such computer programmes as Microsoft Project and/or Mind Tools. These assist in identifying the particular task, relating it to other tasks, noting who is held responsible for delivering the end results, when the task is sequenced to be performed, and so on. Using such tools and templates can enhance productivity levels. Individuals who are expected to deliver good quality products and services, must bear in mind that it is imperative to ensure that they receive adequate rest and engage in regular physical exercise. Having a balanced (nutritious) diet and consuming adequate amounts of water will also contribute to enhanced performance and productivity levels. Individuals who are tired, lethargic, dehydrated, and/or undernourished are highly unlikely to perform their tasks well. As we seek to improve individual, corporate, and national productivity levels, it is imperative that we also retain a focus on how best to create synergies within and beyond teams. Working in groups have the potential to significantly enhance performance. Regardless of how competent the individual may be, he/she will discover that linking with like-minded and competent individuals will magnify the thought, but noting that “No one of us will be as good as all of us”. However, regardless of the tasks required (whether individual or group) we all need to commit to be more productive — delivering more, with less, and of a high quality/standard. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
relations with this giant, which is so expansionist, so greedy, and so aggressive, perhaps this has helped this contradiction, this phenomenon: Knowing that the defense of the revolution depended on us and no one else, that we could not make enormous mistakes here. ‘This may be one of the factors which explains why our revolution is stronger, why our revolution is more authentic, because it was made under more difficult conditions, confronted with a very powerful enemy which has been constantly on the lookout in order to take advantage of any weaknesses, any mistakes, to take advantage and destroy the revolution. ‘This geographic phenomenon, this historical phenomenon, can help to explain why our revolution has been different. Marxist-Leninist interpretation cannot be taught by anyone, but rather those very same Cuban revolutionaries made their own interpretations of Marxism-Leninism. It is not free from errors, certainly not. Of course, if our revolution has grown even more, in a political sense and in an authentic way, it is because, logically, it was logical and inevitable that the USSR and the socialist bloc would exert an enormous influence on us. We were obligated to be grateful, and we are still obligated to be grateful because they helped us. We cannot be ungrateful. We cannot deny the importance of the solidarity and collaboration from those countries, mainly the USSR. We can never forget it. It was very important. Of course, it had a great influence on us. ‘Revolutions in great countries fell or collapsed precisely because of corruption, bureaucracy, lack of consciousness, bad methods of working with the masses and other [internal] failures. ‘None of you paid a single cent to become members of our National Assembly. None of you ever aspired to become members or spoke in behalf of being named or elected member of the National Assembly. That is because none of you are seeking glory and you do not come here as demagogues or to politic or defend spurious interests. ‘I have heard skeptics say that enthusiasts are passengers and I have heard many state theories that it is not the same after the first years of the revolution when the revolution is 10 years old, 20 years old, or 30 years old. Spirits fall. The happiness, enthusiasm, optimism, and expectations are not the same. ‘After decades of revolutionary experience, we can say with absolute certainty, if enthusiasm disappears, it is because something is wrong. If enthusiasm disappears, it is because at a certain point the process has stopped being revolutionary. And we can say that when there is loyalty to principles, when there is dedication to the people, when the people feel part of the process and assume all the responsibilities inherent in their participation, if the process never deviates from its principles, enthusiasm will never disappear in a revolutionary process.’
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com
V
12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
For sale: The hopes and dreams of Vincentian children
WE SHOULD DENOUNCE ANY PLANS to sell SVG’s crown lands. If we sell off all our lands to foreigners, then there will be nothing left in SVG for future generations of Vincentian children. Any sign of selling crown lands to foreigners may as well say ‘For sale: the hopes and dreams of Vincentian children’, because without land, there will be nowhere for our children to live. We must protect and preserve our country for future generations of Vincentians. While alive, we are guardians of our country for those Vincentians yet to be born. If Vincentian children are born in a
country where there is no land for them, then we have failed them. Crown lands and all other lands in SVG are sacrosanct. They are too important and too valuable to be sold to foreigners. Vincentian children’s right to be born in to a country where there is space to build a home of their own, is also sacrosanct. This right is too important and too valuable to be sold to the highest bidding foreigner. This right is too important and too valuable to be interfered with. Just imagine our country with no land left
for our children. Unfortunately, this is a situation to which our country is rapidly heading. The selling off of crown lands illustrates that the ULP regime is financially incompetent. After 18 years in office, they still do not have the ability to create sustainable sources of revenue for the SVG Treasury. There is no financial justification for the sale of Crown Lands. Collecting tax from Taiwan and the superrich of Mustique and Canouan would bring in more money than would be received from the sale
of Crown Lands. Selling off hundreds of acres of SVG Crown lands to foreigners is an act of financial madness and social recklessness. It is mashing up SVG, and Vincentians are becoming second class citizens in our own country. The ULP regime has done such a bad job of running the country, that our economy is virtually dead, and our country is heavily indebted. To bridge the gap, they are selling-off our nation’s lands to pay for their mistakes. When the lands have gone, will they sell our buildings and then the shirts on
our backs? It is a downward spiral that must be halted now. SVG Green Party believes that selling crown lands and other public assets makes SVG weaker and poorer as a nation. When will the selling frenzy end? A Green government will follow in the footsteps of Cuba and Singapore, and end the sale of Crown Lands and ban the sale of SVG lands to foreigners. SVG lands should be sold, transferred or gifted only
to people who are Vincentian by birth or by descent. Selling off our country to foreigners is the same as selling off the hopes and dreams of future generations of Vincentian children. We must keep SVG lands so our children can have as many opportunities as possible to prosper now and in the future. Stop selling crown lands.
Of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms: The LGBT question I DO NOT SUPPORT SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP between persons of the same gender from a scientific and religious perspective, but neither do I support violence and discrimination of any sort. Therefore, my contribution to this very healthy debate is that, while we of the Christian community very strongly denounce LGBT practices, these are our brothers and sisters - all part of a fallen and broken humanity, and legitimate members of our society. Hence, if we claim freedom and equality under the law, we cannot with all honesty turn around and deny any individual or group those same rights. The scientific perspective: The biological data provide overwhelming evidence that heterosexual relationship is the norm in the vertebrate and particularly the mammalian group in which humans are placed. Further, if we opt to use the Darwinian theory of survival of the species, then it is even more difficult to support that nature has predisposed us towards a same sex relationship; for if the majority of the human population should pursue same sex unions, then ultimately the species will go into extinction, and that
theory says no! The human race is not pre-destined to extinction. The default is for the survival of the species. Therefore, I am persuaded that same sex unions are lifestyle choices influenced significantly by our socialization, and not inherently determined. The religious perspective: I am of the Judeo-Christian faith. A faith which unambiguously endorses human heterosexual relationships and condemns homosexuality among other restrictions on sexual expressions Viz Incest: near relatives, and immediate family; fornication: promiscuity, prostitution, adultery; perversion: homosexuality and bestiality. Therefore, it will be sacrilegious to use such a sacred Christian ceremony as marriage, in such a nonChristian practice as same-sex marriages, in a Christian church.
the right to pursue their own happiness and freedom like everyone else in the society. I am aware that I open myself to quotations from the Bible, the Christian’s standard of moral conduct. Leviticus 20:13 invokes the death penalty for homosexuality, but I will argue that the religious-socioeconomic system which allowed capital punishment for those lifestyles does not obtain in SVG. And we have to guard against zealous individuals taking it upon themselves to “order death with the assumed certainty of God.” As Christians, we have the task to share the good news of a God infinite in power, wisdom, love and mercy. “The Lord says: “Let not the wise man bask in his wisdom, nor the mighty man in his might, nor the rich man in his riches. Let them boast in this alone; that they truly know me, and understand that I am the Lord of justice and righteousness, whose love is steadfast, and that I love to be this Obligation under the law way.”{Jerimiah 19:23}. Of course, we must safeguard the Having provided my purity of the faith; but we arguments why I do not must leave final judgement to subscribe to LGBT lifestyle, I the lawgiver. And he has am also persuaded that the described in clear language society has an obligation to the penalty for disobedience protect all of its citizens under when the time comes. the law. LGBT persons have
Considerations for thoughtful deliberation
and comes out and everybody laughs about it. 3. Our sketches/plays/dramas from Pre-school upwards must have gender specific roles for our boys and girls. Don’t confuse the issue by having a girl acting a boy’s part or viceversa. 4. Let there be more male presence in the homes, and empower them to be fathers/leaders. There are too many single parent families headed by females. 5. We need to use our youth camps to instill the values, principles and privileges on what it means to be a woman and what it means to be a man in the society, emphasizing the complementary uniqueness of each gender. Of course, I am aware that it is not as simple as that, but the socialization process must start somewhere if we are going to reverse the trend without being violent and discriminatory against anyone who chooses a different sexual practice to ours. Preparation is the key. How do we prepare our children for the world that is confused and confusing about human sexuality? Focus on your own family first.
Instead of breathing hell fire on the LBGTs in our society, we should re-examine our whole socialization/acculturation process which often provides the spawning environment for the choices that are made later in life. To begin the dialogue, I present five considerations where very early we can make thoughtful, conscious, intentional interventions in our children’s lives to help them in their sexual identity and orientation. 1. Let us identify children with the gender with which they are born. Family members must stop saying to our boy, “He look like ah girl, eh?” or vice-versa, “From morning she look like ah man.” In short, adults, watch your words towards your children! 2. Our garments should be gender specific, not gender neutral. Our sons must wear male tailored outfits and our daughters wear female outfits. Rebuke your son when he puts on his sister’s garments. Similarly for the girls. I am not talking about whether girls should wear trousers; I am talking about the little boy who puts on his sister’s clothes Philmore Isaacs.
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 13.
News
Afro-Congress participants report
(L-R): Sia Creese, James Gibson and Victor Byron. JAMES GIBSON, Sia Creese and Victor Byron reported on their recent sojourn in Venezuela at a press conference, staged at the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela last week Thursday. The trio attended the International Afro-descendant Congress held in Venezuela from November 11 to 13, and were more than happy to give impressions of Venezuela that differ from those beamed over television channels across the world. Creese admitted to acquiring a greater appreciation of her African heritage, as a consequence of her exposure to spiritual aspects shared by delegates from Brazil, Colombia and
Haiti. She was happy to see first-hand the resilience of the Venezuelan people, and thankful for the opportunity to clear up the ‘misportrayal’ of the Venezuelan nation as seen through international media lenses. For Gibson, the trip to Venezuela was an “eye-opener,” as well as an excursion into black history. He visited the area Cumbe de Ocoyla, where African leader Cimarron Guillermo Ribas established an African community which existed from 1768 to 1771. His legacy remains intact. Gibson confessed to feeling at home in Venezuela, and noted an extent of
As part of the activities of the International Congress of Afro-descendant Peoples, delegates expressed their solidarity with Bolivians as ‘they face hard days of resistance to stop the violence of the far-right in their country’. freedom, despite threats imposed on the country. So much so, he admitted that he “felt secure,” and that he “never felt in jeopardy.” He condemned the measures taken by the US Administration aimed at progressive governments throughout the hemisphere. Byron endorsed the sentiments of his two colleagues. He is adamant that
the Bolivarian Revolution will triumph, and is confident that the people’s vibrancy will overcome the trials. The Congress stood in solidarity with the Bolivian people in the wake of the coup instigated by the same forces that are allegedly endeavouring to remove the Nicolas Maduro government. (WKA)
V
14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Health
Fighting back the wanton spread of HIV
THE COMMEMORATION OF WORLD AIDS DAY, which will take place on 1 December 2019, is, according to the joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), “an important opportunity to recognize the essential role that communities have played and continue to play in the AIDS response at the international, national and local levels.” While we are confident that communities here in SVG continue to organize and rally around positive initiatives to highlight the HIV/AIDS issue, one HIV/AIDS activist here has a special appeal to mark this year’s commemoration of
World AIDS Day, Sydney Joseph, known more familiarly as ‘Pumpkin’, HIV Animator attached to the National AIDS Secretariat in the Ministry of Health, is on a crusade to stop the wanton spread of HIV. Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN last Wednesday, Joseph opened by offering his condolences to the families who have lost “loved ones to AIDS.” Joseph then turned to addressing the Rights and Responsibilities of persons who are HIV positive. He referenced the ‘Charter of Patients’ Right and Responsibilities’, a document
launched here recently and supported by Government. Of particular concern to Joseph was Article 14 of the Section Patients’ Responsibility of the Charter. That article read: “In matters of health, as in all other matters, the individual is always subject to the rule of law.” This, for Joseph, has to be stressed to those who are HIV positive and continue to wantonly spread the virus. “It is time,” Joseph said, “that we enforce Article 292 of the Criminal Code against those who deliberately transmit the virus to others.” In addition, the HIVAIDS activist called for “Proper contact tracing .. finding out from whom a person who
test positive for HIV might have contacted the virus. This can be done by professional counsellors.” A proper contact tracing initiative can help “in advancing the behavior change plans that we are desirous of seeing in place,” Joseph proffered, adding that the support that develop because of this, will also help to ensure that those infected adhere rigidly to their Antiretroviral therapy (ART). Moreover, Joseph urged persons who are HIV positive to practise proper hygiene and dieting, exercise regularly, get lots of sleep, keep their clinic appointments and use condoms correctly if and when they have sex. And with overseas sources of funding “drying up,” there is an appealing to local business to be more supportive of the work of the National Aids
Sydney ‘Pumpkin’ Joseph is on a crusade to stop the deliberate spreading of HIV here. Secretariat. As far as his message for World Aids Day 2019 is concerned, Joseph declared: “Persons with AIDS have hope.”
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 15.
WPP celebrates in Thanksgiving WORLD PEDIATRIC Project (WPP) is in the season of celebrating ‘’gratitude and thanksgiving’. This comes as three different institutions have chosen the children of our country and region as the pick for their donations. WPP is celebrating this win for our children and the opportunity to continue enhancing the quality of care and life for them. WPP received a kind donation of EC$5,650.00 from Malcolm Webb, Loren Gun-Munro and the Mallo School Boy Beer Walkers, who completed a 40K Walk on October 27, 2019, SVG’s 40th year of independence. They planned and executed the walk in support of WPP’s Every Child Counts Campaign! WPP is grateful for the initiative taken and the support. The donation was handed over
at WPP’s office to Executive Director of WPP Lauren McIntosh. The ‘thanksgivin’ continued as WPP received a donation from the organiers of the event Flair- All inclusive. Chevone Stewart, one of the primary organisers, said his committee chose WPP as the receiving charity in keeping with the practice since its inception, of FLAIR making a contribution to a charity here. “We are pleased this year to be associated with the World Pediatric Project and their campaign from our carnival party Flair. We are thankful to all our patrons for supporting our events throughout the year, namely Flair (Carnival Saturday) and Sparkle ( Old Year’s Night). We wish the WPP all the best in their endeavors,” Stewart said. The celebration of ‘thanksgiving’ will
continue with the December 28 staging of Rodney Small’s ‘Steel Expression 2019. Part proceeds from that annual event will go to WPP programming. All the contributions go to “The Every Child Counts Campaign” which is a local initiative aimed at boosting awareness of WPP and its work, encouraging local philanthropy, and to drive the effort to attaining the funding target of $270,000 in two years. Executive Director McIntosh is beyond humbled, and is grateful to all the supporters and contributors for their donation. She hopes that the contributions received to date would encourage other businesses and individuals in SVG to partner with WPP, or donate to a cause that visibly makes a difference in the lives of our children.
She said “This Every Child Counts Campaign is about businesses, government and individuals working together as a community.” Mc Intosh made special mention of Lindon James and the Be Fit Movement family for contributing their help to every child who needs it, through the joint effort dubbed 5k SWEAT, scheduled to be held this Saturday, November 30. In highlighting the work of WPP, McIntosh said, “We are thankful for the transformational work we are able to do. By healing our children, we are restoring hope and the promise for a better future for our communities, our nation and the global community.” The work of the WPP and its impact can be followed at www.worldpediatricproject.org http://www.worldpediatricproject.org.
V
16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts Festival Review
Torrid Existence raises questions by JP SCHWMON jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com
MENTAL HEALTH - treatment of the mentally challenged - was front and e centre last weekend in Urban Expression’s ‘Torrid Experience’ at the Peace Memorial Hall. The play was written and directed by David ‘Darkie’ Williams, based on a story postulated by Sean Frederick. What unfolded onstage last Saturday evening was testament to the adage, ‘Proper preparation brings the best fruits from one’s labours,’ as patrons mulled over the protagonist’s (Damani played by Stanley Johnson) story, which was loosely based on local itinerant widely known as Massive.
Damani (Stanley Johnson) interacts with his dream state fixation.
Making for good theatre Attack on Damani after being wrongfully accused of rape. The elements that make good theatre functioned with near perfect synergy. Ezra Amil Forde was spot on for most of his role as sound and lighting technician, though there were some obvious false starts and otherwise slightly off lighting cues. Though the discovery occurs in a somewhat nonlinear fashion (which made for even better storytelling), we are treated to Damani’s growth from a young boy to adulthood. De’Adre Simmons adroitly acquitted his role as a young Damani who began showing signs of mental instability at an early age. He left a lasting impression on Saturday evening’s audience. Through Simmons’ portrayal, it becomes clear that poverty, peoples misgiving and misinformation about mental health issues make for the germination of torrid experiences. Neither Tory Tory (Tamika Foyle), with knowledge that the young Damani had been experiencing mental health challenges “since he small,”, nor one-time school teacher Mrs Shelby (Jolie Peters) sees the importance in getting a clinical diagnosis for the youngster, even in the face of his eccentricities. The usual dose of verbal abuse and threats of physical violence were meted out by way of punishment on young Damani. We see him last as a dual partial curtain close and a 15seconds blackout helped to disguise a time lapse which brings on an adult Damani, who almost immediately enters an unmistakable dream state.
Damani gesticulates with cutlass.
where the story led.” Set designer and cocreator Sean Frederick It can be safely said that Damani is attested that the level of Johnson’s best characterisation to preparation that went date. His execution was near flawless into last weekend’s — expressive in voice and face, his production was movements concise and believable intentional and in play from the tremor that runs through his from the very start. “I body from lips to feet as he stares was able to do my transfixed at his female obsession, to research … I was able to the intentional physical comedy when talk to him … I told him I he is sharpening a cutlass with his was recording the back turned full on to the audience. conversation and why I The result was a sexually suggestive was recording the series of motions which he milked conversation and he was without overplaying the moment. willing to indulge in it. Young Damani is confronted by Mrs Shellby. Speaking exclusively to THE He told me about his VINCENTIAN he confessed, “To be mother, you know his under the carpet. It is not presented in honest, I knew nothing about the background….” the usual straightforward style person on whom the character was When asked about the inspiration popularised as Vincentian theatre. based before I got my script… so my behind the near bare set that served This is not accidental as it is meant to first step was meeting the person the Torrid Experience production [then] I actually lost 10 pounds to fully Frederick said, “I was sort of thinking be a harbinger as to the future of the local industry. feel the part out….” of an avante gard approach. I have a ‘Darkie’ Williams suggests that the Johnson’s prep work took him out in copy of the play called ‘Waiting For local scene is reforming as new groups the sun to char his skin naturally; he Godot’, and I really liked that play… I grew his hair, forgoing grooming of didn’t want any restrictions like fourth enter the Festival, and the new batch of students at the SVGCC Performing any sort. “It wasn’t an exact wall … so I said to ‘Darkie’ let’s use a Arts Club now have a structured mirroring of that person [Massive]; it smaller space like abstract look….” understanding of theatre. He said “The was an interpretation and people got Words printed onto the set signify that and they commended it,” Johnson Damani’s thoughts which are reflected theatre going public must now start to look for changes. After all, theatre is said. as whispers and shouts, a not a stagnant thing. It must evolve.” characterisation discernable only by Up next SVGCC PAS is expected to The thought behind the cap size of each word. Some of perform ‘Dorothy’s Challenge’ before those words are also examples of the Reeja’s Theatre Alliance closes the Back onstage, the audience is discriminatory language used at him Festival curtains on December 7th. acutely aware of the fine balance being on a daily basis. “The maintained between the series of live figure you’re seeing action and dialogue. This, Williams there is actually him said, was intentional as the play itself doing his emulated Massive, even though it was introspection… talking not necessarily all about him to himself,” Frederick specifically. “The play was centred added. around a well known character… and if you know him, he doesn’t really say Going forward much… but I never want to write so ‘’Torrid Experience that you can identify the person because I always feel that you lose the serves to highlight a potently debilitating artistic integrity if you write directly on him,” Williams explained, adding, . issue in our “We don’t know if he had a fixation community that is often times swept on women, but in the writing that’s Damani, Haidi and Tory Tory share stage time.
Johnson’s best to date
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 17.
Visual Arts
Prographixx Studios releases short film by JP SHWIMON
Actress Crystal Bacchus exacting her vengeance as K.C in Kiss & Kill short film.
Detective Triez (JP Schwmon) and Detective Sullivan (Leslie-Ann Millington) investigating the disappearance of Ares as seen in short film Kiss & Kill. ‘KISS & KILL’, a short film shot on location in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was set to have its online release last Monday, November 25, 2019, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, via Prographixx’s YouTube channel. The November 25 release was especially relevant, given that the film touches on the topic of domestic violence and the effects that come with it. ‘Kiss & Kill’ has been in the making for the last 4 years. Amidst several challenges, the all Vincentian cast and production team agreed to push through with its release, noting that every step forward is a victory for the film industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Silbert Defreitas, owner of Prographixx Studio, said, “ I am very excited and honored to collaborate with persons who are interested in building the industry. St. Vincent has a lot of talent that needs to be filmed, so that our local television channels can carry more locally produced entertainment programmes.” Defreitas continued,, “It’s not easy, and there is no funding at the
moment because we don’t have the industry set up right; for example with this short film, we all worked for free and the release is free because we want persons, especially the youth, to see that there is talent, and that we can produce high quality content. This can be a thriving industry providing employment if we take it serious. We need to stay consistent and work on quality because once businesses and corporations see the level of professionalism and the popularity of the work we produce is something they can put their brand name on, then they will aligning themselves with the productions, which in turn provides the finance needed to compensate everyone involved. The more we produce, the more legitimate it will become.” The ‘Kiss & Kill’ cast includes Leslie-Ann Millington, Crystal Bacchus, Adrian Wright, Selis Blair, Shennika Shallow-Simmons, Jerron James, Ronetta Nanton and JP Schwmon. Persons can log onto Prographixx’s YouTube channel to view, comment, like and share.
V
18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Heritage
SVG gets National Wear and Costume expressed her satisfaction that, at the final deliberations, IT IS OFFICIAL! St. the selection committee spoke Vincent and the in unison in choosing the Grenadines now has designs. both National Wear and PM Gonsalves added his National Costume. voice to the conversation, After a process of acknowledging that the people reviewing of St. Vincent and the submissions, Grenadines have, over the selections were made years, experimented with to be judged for different forms of national National Wear and wear, but in the 40th National Costume for Anniversary of the both male and female. reclamation of our These were independence, it had become unveiled at a Cocktail necessary for the nation to held at the residence affirm particular forms to of Prime Minister Dr. constitute our National Wear. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves The presentation of the on Friday 22nd designs and subsequent November, 2019, announcement of the winners under the auspices of was prefaced by audio-visual Invest SVG. presentation. Rene Baptiste, Winner of the National member of the Wear Female was Jeremy selection committee, Payne. His design showed a told the gathering, white ankle-length cotton “This has been long in dress. The bodice included coming…,” and she lacing at front and gathered beneath the bust. The top was finished with puff sleeves gathered at the elbow. The long flowing skirt, complemented by an apron collected at one side, created a triangular shape at front. An original pattern of breadfruit leaves of blue, by GLORIAH…
National Wear Female – designed by Jeremy Payne.
yellow and green added contrast to the design. Jeremy’s stated intention was to “pay homage to the many women who have worked to build our nation, highlighting our strong work ethics as a people.” Sofilia Blucher copped the National Wear Men’s version. She presented a traditional yet modern look three-piece outfit - waistcoat, shirt and a pair of black long pants. The waistcoat was made from African kente fabric, with the shape at the bottom imitating the shape of the diamonds in the National Flag. The shirt borrowed style features from the African male dashiki and was trimmed with kente cloth on the collar, sleeves, and wrists. The pair of black pants was rather simple but succinctly incorporated the hints of black in the kente fabric. The National Costume for both Female and Male was won by Debbie Barbour. Her female costume boasted a creole dress with: a whitecotton, off-the-shoulder bodice with frill around the top arm and quarter-length sleeve finished with a square drape; and a skirt with side panels complete with several layers of frills and dominated by an original breadfruit leaf design. The side panels added volume to the dress. The waist was accentuated with a wide band which was tied into a large bow at the front, while the hemline was finished with a white boderie anglaise trim. This ensemble was completed with a coiffe head-dress.
National Wear Male – designed by Sofilia Blucher. Her male costume echoed the aesthetic of the female designs, making both a wellcoordinated design. The kneelength blue pants, topped by a long-sleeved shirt with elegant cravat and hip-length waistcoat with original breadfruit leaf design bespoke elegance and ease of wearing. Ms. Barbour’s designs are said to have taken into consideration aspects of our history/heritage, e.g. the breadfruit plant and the rhythm of the sea. Vincentians are expected to recreate these designs and wearing the outfits at appropriate times and places.
Debbie Barbour (left) with National Costume male and female.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 19.
V
20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Poetry Corner
Drunkers
How could you build a nation When more than half of your population are drunkers Incompetent Docile And visionless! Drunkers are in a daze Drunkards minds blurry They can’t think ‘strait’ No initiative All them want is a drink that causes Self destruction! Destruction! Destruction! Now while the Negro gazing Drinking Marrying Partying Acting silly Living in fantasy; The Syrians Chinese and Indian Milk your economy All over Kingstown; Drunkards stumble for direction. Up at Heritage-Square You pull down me heritage Ah drink up beverages
Ah talk rubbage Behaving like savages Down at Bottom Town Negro tumble down; Over indulging with firewater. Ah!!! Wake Up Negro! Wake up! Realize Organizers Centralized; Take control of your destiny Cast away self pity Take back your City from the Invading vultures Create a black vibrant economy; This will solve your misery Your misery Your misery! By Carden A. Michael © 9/7/19 – St. Vincent and the Grenadines
The doctor is your friend These days so many things affecting our bodies, We have cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes; This they say is the destiny of man, And we have to live with them the best we can; Is there anyone who can help us then? Yes sir! The doctor is your friend. I know they are not God, but still, It’s He who gave them the knowledge and skill, They cannot prevent us from dying ultimately, But many lives they have saved already; I am speaking first to all the men Don’t be afraid, the doctor is your friend. Men generally are afraid to visit the doctor, They feel they’re too macho o r afraid of the answer; They wait until it is too late, Then the poor wife has to drag them through the gate. I want to repeat this once again, The doctor is your friend. Some complain they don’t like what the doctor does to them, The position and what they use is a problem; How some doctors use their finger, To see if they have prostate cancer; We may have to face these things now and then, But still, the doctor is your friend. Women too should check the doctor very early, Do a pap smear and a mammogram yearly; Mothers should encourage their young daughters too, Early detection can tell the doctors what to do; Menopause or no menopause, it doesn’t matter, Go see your friend, the doctor.
There are many different ways the doctor carries out a test, He or she is a professional, and knows what’s best; So many people are suffering from hypertension and diabetes, Checking with the doctor early can tell if you have or developing any of these; These folks are people on whom you can depend, I know the good doctor is your friend. The doctor says ‘’leave the rum and cigarettes on the shelf”, Don’t say the doctor like he wants all for himself; If he thinks that you have enough children, Don’t tell him the Bible says you must have your quiver full of them; So if you want me to say it again and again, Obey the doctor, ‘cause he’s your friend. Some people try to play their own doctor, They have remedy for all sorts of disorder; So they boil a pot of bush and whatever, Telling you it’s good for pain, fever and pressure; But don’t even trust the bush doctor name Ben, Your true doctor is your friend. Written by: C. Fergus © 25/11/2019 - St. Vincent and the Grenadines
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 21.
Business
Squeeze Cash: A major innovation
VINCENTIANS HAVE BEEN URGED to get in tune with the innovations unfolding around them. And one of those unfolding innovations is Squeeze Cash. Squeeze Cash is a facility (available as an app) that allows a person who signs up for a Squeeze Cash account, to tap up his/her account — like tapping up a cellular phone - and use that account to make transactions and receive payments with other Squeeze Cash account holders, i.e. wherever Squeeze Cash (like a credit card) is accepted. Subscribers to the Squeeze Cash account are charged 25 cents for every transaction under $1,000.00. There is no annual fee as per credit cards. The facility was formally launched last Tuesday and Kenrick Quashie, Chief Executive Officer, expressed confidence that “it will work.” He outlined plans for expansion to include service in other currencies as he noted that cash and securities are becoming
expensive. Squeeze Cash, he said, is here to “revolutionise that part of the economy.” Marketing Consultant Laverne King boasted: “We are here to deliver,” and projected the facility/entity as “the future of Caribbean financing.” Co-Founder and Director Ashely McLean took those gathered through the process of getting on the Squeeze Cash network. Barbadian born Lecturer Jeremy Stephens, via video conferencing, described the development as a “major innovation in the Caribbean.” He projected that the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States stand to benefit from this new impetus towards crypto currency and mobile money. He assesses that it reduces time, a la the banks, with changing currency, and that it “will help to expand the Vincentian economy.” Stephens delivered his address from distance and engaged in exchanges with the listeners.
The Squeeze Cash app can be downloaded to a phone from which a person can manage and operate their Squeeze Cash account.
He also pointed to ways in which government can improve revenue collection and flagged “headline threats” and suggested that it is “imperative to stay ahead of these risks.” Stephens indicated that Squeeze Cash provided avenues for improving “the way we do business,’
and he urged citizens to “get comfortable with the idea of paying bills... (by telephone)”. A number of local businesses have already linked up with Squeeze Cash, which has been in operation in St. Lucia since June of this year. (WKA)
(L-R): Ashely Mc Lean and Kenrick Quashie at last Tuesday’s launch.
22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 23.
News
Ciandra and Jhawane create history in amateaur radio
(L-R): Jhawanie Laidlow and Ciandra Scarborough, youngest licensed Technician Class Radio operators in SVG.
NINE-YEAR-OLD CIANDRA SCARBOROUGH and 10year-old Jhawanie Laidlow created history in SVG by being the youngest persons to pass the Technician Class Amateur (HAM) radio test. The two were among 13 other persons who completed a one-week course - November 18 — 22, 2019 - organized by the Rainbow Radio League Inc. and part sponsored by the NTRC. The course, conducted at NEMO’s HQ, covered areas inclusive of radio wave propagation, antenna theory and construction, amateur radio protocol and frequency allocations for
radio amateurs among other topics. Also included in the training was a mini simulation involving emergency message handling. Active radio amateurs also visited the training center to give moral support to the trainees. According to course director Donald De Riggs, Amateur Radio is both a hobby and a service, but the emphasis was on the service aspect as per the need for radio operators from communities all around St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to assist relevant agencies to respond in a timely and effective manner
explained. In recognition of the service provided by radio amateurs during natural disasters, the government allows licensed operators to import communications equipment duty free, while the NTRC requires only that new Hams pay an initial registration fee Jhawanie putting the finishing touches on an of $50 EC. Thereafter, emergency antenna. all that is required is annual renewal of their whenever there is a those needs irrespective licence, by filling out the disaster. of religious or political renewal form. De Riggs emphasized affiliation.� The Technician Class that as a service “We All that is required for course is conducted free don’t see politics, we the course is “simply the of cost as the RRL’s don’t see religion, all we ability to read, write and contribution to national see is needs, and address understand,� De Riggs development, which has
historically been supported by the NTRC, Red Cross, BOSVG, SVGPA, RSVGPF and NEMO. In 2020, the RRL Inc. will be celebrating 25 years of service to SVG and the wider Caribbean region. Recognition was made of NEMO for providing the facility for staging the course and the NTRC provided refreshment for the participants and printed the course material. Report submitted by: DONALD DE RIGGS
Land for sale on Michael Rahael Boulevard, San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago
Commercial Land for sale: TMV Zone 2 ‘Motor Mall’, Corner of Churchill Roosevelt Highway and Trincity Central Road, Trincity, Trinidad & Tobago ‡
+HFWDUHV RU $FUHV YDFDQW ODQG ZLWK HVVHQWLDO VHUYLFHV
‡
/RFDWHG ZLWKLQ 6DQ )HUQDQGR 7ULQLGDG
‡
3ULPH SRVLWLRQ RQ RQH RI WKH PDLQ DUWHULHV OLQNLQJ 6DQ )HUQDQGR 3ULQFHV 7RZQ WR WKH 6LU 6RORPRQ +RFKR\ +LJKZD\ DSSUR[LPDWHO\ NP VRXWK RI (DVW :HVW &RUULGRU
‡
%RUGHUV WKH HVWDEOLVKHG Âľ&RFR\HDÂś UHVLGHQWLDO QHLJKERXUKRRG
‡
6XUURXQGHG E\ WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7ULQLGDG DQG 7REDJR 6DQ )HUQDQGR &DPSXV DQG 6RXWK 3DUN 0DOO DQG EXVLQHVV SDUN
‡
3XEOLF WUDQVSRUWDWLRQ VKRSSLQJ IDFLOLWLHV VFKRROV DQG SODFHV IRU UHOLJLRXV ZRUVKLS DOO DYDLODEOH QHDU E\
‡
6LWH FXUUHQWO\ KROGV FRQGLWLRQDO RXWOLQH SODQQLQJ FRQVHQW IRU WKH VXE GLYLVLRQ RI WKH VLWH WR FUHDWH SORWV IRU UHWDLO DQG RIILFH SXUSRVHV 3UHYLRXVO\ WKH VLWH REWDLQHG FRQGLWLRQDO RXWOLQH SODQQLQJ FRQVHQW IRU D PL[ RI FRPPHUFLDO PL[HG XVH UHVLGHQWLDO DQG UHFUHDWLRQDO ORWV
‡
2IIHUV WR EH VXEPLWWHG QR ODWHU WKDQ $WODQWLF 6WDQGDUG 7LPH RQ 'HFHPEHU DQG VWULFWO\ LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK WHUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV JRYHUQLQJ WKH ELG SURFHVV DV RXWOLQHG LQ WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ PHPRUDQGXP DYDLODEOH RQ UHTXHVW IURP WKH EHORZ GHWDLOV
)RU D FRS\ RI WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ PHPRUDQGXP SOHDVH FRQWDFW SURSHUW\VDOHV#KFOWW FRP RU
‡
)RU D FRS\ RI WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ PHPRUDQGXP SOHDVH FRQWDFW SURSHUW\VDOHV#KFOWW FRP RU
6DOH EHLQJ FRPSOHWHG E\ WKH FXUUHQW SURSHUW\ RZQHU +RPH &RQVWUXFWLRQ /LPLWHG
‡
6DOH EHLQJ FRPSOHWHG E\ WKH FXUUHQW SURSHUW\ RZQHU 7ULQFLW\ &RPPHUFLDO &HQWUH /LPLWHG
‡
+HFWDUHV RU $FUHV YDFDQW ODQG ZLWK HVVHQWLDO VHUYLFHV
‡
/RFDWHG ZLWKLQ WKH HDVWHUQ VHFWLRQ RI WKH (DVW :HVW &RUULGRU RI WKH LVODQG RI 7ULQLGDG DSSUR[LPDWHO\ NP HDVW RI 3RUW RI 6SDLQ
‡
3ULPH FRPPHUFLDO GHYHORSPHQW VLWH ZLWK YHU\ JRRG YLVLELOLW\ IURP SDVVLQJ WUDIILF DORQJ WKH &KXUFKLOO 5RRVHYHOW +LJKZD\ DQG 7ULQFLW\ &HQWUDO 5RDG
‡
3URSHUW\ IRUPV SDUW RI WKH Âľ7ULQFLW\ 0LOOHQQLXP 9LVLRQÂś D PL[HG XVH GHYHORSPHQW LQFOXGLQJ UHVLGHQWLDO SURSHUWLHV 6XQULVH DQG 7ULQFLW\ %XVLQHVV 3DUNV 0LOOHQQLXP /DNHV JROI FRXUVH DQG WKH 7ULQFLW\ 6KRSSLQJ 0DOO
‡
6LWH FXUUHQWO\ KROGV RXWOLQH SODQQLQJ SHUPLVVLRQ IRU WKH H[FLVLRQ RI RQH SORW WR EH IXUWKHU VXEGLYLGHG LQWR WZR SORWV IRU UHWDLO WUDGH XVH 3UHYLRXVO\ WKH VLWH REWDLQHG FRQGLWLRQDO RXWOLQH SODQQLQJ FRQVHQW IRU VWRUDJH DQG VDOH RI SHWUROHXP SURGXFWV VHUYLFLQJ RI YHKLFOHV D FRQYHQLHQFH VWRUH DQG UHWDLO
‡
2IIHUV WR EH VXEPLWWHG QR ODWHU WKDQ $WODQWLF 6WDQGDUG 7LPH RQ 'HFHPEHU DQG VWULFWO\ LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK WHUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV JRYHUQLQJ WKH ELG SURFHVV DV RXWOLQHG LQ WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ PHPRUDQGXP DYDLODEOH RQ UHTXHVW IURP WKH EHORZ GHWDLOV
‡ ‡
V A secretÊs thorny web 24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
pain to the wife of the man with whom she cheated A FRIEND ASKED ME TO KEEP a secret for her, and I ten years ago. I hope she reads did so for ten years. The secret was that she cheated this letter and keeps her mouth with a friend of her husband, got pregnant and shut, since our situation pretty much can be had an abortion overseas. described as ‘even Recently, a friend of Stevens’. hers told her I was cheating on my wife, and Tit for a Tat she threatened to tell my wife. Apparently, she Dear Tit for Tat, forgot all about what she did 10 years ago. So, I in The burden of keeping turn threatened to expose her secret to her husband, a secret is something most individuals would choose and she dared me. She not to bring on was adamant he would themselves. not believe me, and You and your friend furthermore, she would let have gotten caught up in a her husband know I was situation where both of also trying to get back at her for having found out I you are now desperately clinging to anything that was cheating. would clear your What she does not checkered history. know is I have concrete One thing for certain is, evidence on her. The there are other innocent thing that is holding me people involved in this back in exposing her, is that I don’t want to cause who can easily end up as
Dear George,
collateral damage. Before either of you moves forward with spilling the beans, ask yourself: Who would benefit from this action? What your friend did 10 years ago is entirely her business and should be dealt with between her and her husband. The fact that you cheated on your wife is something that you have to deal with, and letting your wife get wind of this by another medium other than from you, could bring irreparable harm to your marriage. You have to decide about whether you will come clean with your wife or remain in suspense.
George
My cheating wife Dear George, THERE IS SO MUCH SLEEPING around going on in the country, it makes me sick to my stomach. I was going about my business as usual, not worrying about who was sleeping with whom, when I found out that my wife of 15 years was having an affair with one of her coworkers. I refused to believe it until I saw them for myself having lunch at a restaurant. I don’t know how I managed to hold my peace that day. Right now, I’m contemplating what to do about the man she is messing with, and what to do with my ‘faithful wife’. Honestly, George, I do not know what to do. So many things are going through my mind right now. How could my wife do this to me?
Hurt Dear Hurt, It is unfortunate that you had your trust shattered the way it was. The action you ought to take now is to have a talk with your wife and try to get to the bottom of what is going awry. This you can do with the assistance
of a qualified counsellor. While it was not right for her to do what she did, you may very well get to understand what could have led to her actions. Use this opportunity to talk and listen to your wife, keeping in mind that your
marriage can be saved, once both of you are willing to do what it takes to save it.
George
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't make large purchases or investments. You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount. You should make special plans for you and your lover. Advancement can be yours if you are assertive in your approach.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Changes in your home are apparent, and you must be willing to bend if you don't want to find yourself alone. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity. Do not jump to conclusions concerning your romantic partner. --
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Try not to let your emotions interfere with the completion of your work. Do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Be careful. Your ability to get the job done will result in added responsibility and possible promotion.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Concentrate on work. Family responsibilities are escalating. You will back yourself into a corner if you are baited and your stubbornness will only make matters worse. Focus on your own domestic problems.
Gemini (May 22-June 21) You are best to be discreet. You could be attracting individuals who are anything but good for you. Try to avoid being extravagant this week. Exhaustion will lead to minor injury if you don't know when to quit.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't be too quick to judge. You need time to rejuvenate. Problems with your boss could lead to unemployment. Try to communicate if you wish to help.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) You may be ill-treated if you have to deal with institutional environments. Older family members may try to make demands that are impossible for you to handle. Relatives may be less than easy to deal with. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Relatives will be cordial. Don't overload your plate. Don't get talked into get rich quick schemes. Deep discussions may only lead to friction. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Avoid any petty ego confrontations; they could lead to estrangement if you aren't careful. You may need a good friend to lean on. A change of attitude has probably disrupted your home environment.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. Love can be heightened if you sit down and discuss your future plans. Your outgoing nature will surprise others this week. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You should regain some of your selfesteem if you get involved in organizational functions. You will be accident prone if you aren't careful this week. Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) This day was meant for love. Make creative changes to your residence. Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections. Don't expect romantic encounters to be lasting.
ACROSS 1. Frying vessels 5. See 19-Down 8. Guy in choir 12. Help in a crime 13. Raw metal 14. Margarine 15. Grate (on) 16. Taste victory 17. Authentic 18. Hosiery hue 20. Straight to the point 22. The Grand _ 25. See 53-Down 26. Employ 27. Scottish cap 29. Needlepoint or solving crosswords 33. Begin the day 35. Acme 37. Sound-alike of “mail” 38. Relieved (a pain) 40. Chocolate unit 42. Go for a jog 43. _ Van Winkle 45. Important tasks 47. Backbones 50. Bathroom rug 51. Bagel center 52. Create a ditch 54. Spiral shape 57. Needs to pay 58. Lemony drink 59. A single time 60. Small pest 61. Allow 62. Feeder filler DOWN 1. Fido’s “foot” 2. Lincoln’s nickname 3. Tidy quality 4. Homeless animal 5. Fancy knot 6. Quite dry
7. Jeans fabric 8. Humdrum feeling 9. Funny Baldwin 10. Pew, for example 11. Tone below la 19. With 5-Across, just okay 21. Stadium cheer 22. Make well 23. Neighbor of Europe 24. _ King Cole, 1950s crooner 28. Riotous crowd 30. See 8-Across 31. Common eye color 32. Deep urges 34. Most spinetingling 36. Chair cushion
39. Constant racket 41. Liquor for pirates 44. Propel a bike 46. Tijuana treats 47. Previously planted 48. Earnest request
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 , 2019. 25.
49. Agree (with) 51. Pork source 53. With 25-Across, become angry 55. Chip off the cold block? 56. Conducted (a band)
V
26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Training
CARCIP Grant Trainees graduate existing and start-up enterprises received funding for equipment, software and marketing support. The CARCIP programme is executed by the National Center of Technological Innovation (NCTI) which began operations in 2002. It is mandated to deliver affordable ICT training to Vincentians in order to bridge the digital divide. Speaking at the ceremony, Manager of the NCTI, Charles Burke explained that NCTI started operations as the National Institute of Technology Graduates of the International Certification in the Incubator (NIT) in Ottley Hall in Programme under the Business Incubation Grants Programme 2002. When a move (BIGP). was made to register the NIT, it was THE CARIBBEAN REGIONAL International Certification in COMMUNICATIONS Infrastructure the Incubator Programme under discovered that that name was Programme (CARCIP) is having a the Business Incubation Grants already taken, hence the change to the National Center of major impact on Information and Programme (BIGP, at a Communication Technology in St. ceremony held at the Methodist Technological Innovation. Burke said the NCTI has Vincent and the Grenadines. Church Hall. On Tuesday 15th, 152 The courses offered under the matured into a full- fledged institution and in 2016, over persons graduated from the GTIP included CompTIA A+, CARCIP Grant Training CompTIA Secutity +, CompTIA 700 persons have completed certification. Incubation Programme (GTIP), Network +, ICDL, CCNA and Chairman of NCTI, Willis and 16 persons received Adobe CS6. Under the BIGP
Williams said that the NCTI has made a remarkable contribution to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He noted that the programme will be very beneficial to the graduates. Manager at CARCIP, Roxanne John said that the programme was implemented in SVG in 2012 through the Ministry of Finance with 100 percent financing by the World Bank. Among the aims of the project, John said, is to increase access to regional broadband networks and development of IT services in SVG and the region. John boasted about the success of the CARCIP programme. Among those successes were improvement in government network, an undersea cable system, faster and more efficient service in the Grenadines, developed government network including the E Government services and the installation of a New PBX IT system. She disclosed that some EC$ 4 million in grant assistance was allocated for the Business Incubation Training, but persons had to be qualified to access the grants, and business
Manager of CARCIP, Roxanne John gave an overview of some of the projects CARCIP has undertaken. undertakings had to be registered with a physical presence in SVG. John projected that trained incubates can market their skills around the region, once the market is available. Featured speaker, Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, outlined his government’s policy on technology and the importance of the industry to the country. He said that SVG CARCIP Incubation Programme is a model not just for the region but also the World Bank. Among the major project taking place under CARCIP, the Minister said, was the laying of undersea cables to connect the Grenadines, as well as Grenada and St. Lucia. He pledged his government’s support to IT, and congratulated the graduates. (KH)
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 27.
‘No victimization,’ says new SVGFF boss don’t have a single bone of victimisation in my body.” Dickson lauded the work of Marvin Fraser, whom Carl Dickson- New President he unseated, of the SVGFF. and extended an invitation Horne, failed to gain a vote. to Fraser to Retaining the First Vice discuss (From left) – Vic-Presidents Otashie Spring (First), Wayne Grant (Second) and President’s post was Otashie Football Dwight Roberts (Third). Spring. His 38 votes disposed matters. of Maxim James, 13 votes, and extend an invitation to Mr channel that passion, in “ He (Fraser) has done an Debson Cruickshank, 2 votes. building the sport going excellent amount of work, and Fraser , so we can talk about Wayne Grant also retained forward,” Dickson advanced. I affirm to you today (that) one the passion for the game and his position of Second Vice — Dickson also revealed his of my first actions would be to how he can continue to President. He beat former intentions to Third Vice- President Wayde engage the views of Jackson 32-21, in a two- way the affiliates. battle. “I will like to call However, the position of upon you (affiliates) Third Vice- President saw a for your expertise change. Former Committee … let us work member Dwight Roberts together to get the received 27 votes, with Yosiah job done and get to Dascent gaining 15, Elroy the next level,” he Boucher 8, Trevor Huggins 2 implored. and Sedley Jeffers 1. Roberts Dickson’s tenhad been a Committee point plan, used in Member, since 2011. his run up to last President Dickson will Saturday’s appoint two committee Congress, was members, while the general enough to earn him body will elect the other four 28 votes to Fraser’s on Saturday 7th December. The West St George Secondary School -Junior 25. The other Secondary champions. candidate- Patrick of the blocks well in their finao end last match against Troumaca-Ontario, The Sion Hill Government School – Primary School Saturday, at taking the first two quarters at 7the Kingstown Champs. Netball Centre. 5 and 15-13. But the Troumaca Ontario The Sion Hill THE SION HILL GOVERNMENT players went into another gear Government School beat 2018 SCHOOL, the West St George champions Owia Government, 17- and were in the ascendancy, 23-19 Secondary and the Troumaca at the end of the third quarter, 8, to take the Primary Schools’ Ontario Secondary were all DEVANTE MCDONALD has then closed off the final at 32-21. winners as the 2019 Inter-Schools category. been appointed captain of the Leading the scoring for the The West St George saw off the Netball Championship came to an SVG U15 Cricket team, to Troumaca Ontario, was Zanique Girls’ High School, 35-18, to win compete in the WICBC Vincent, who scored 15 of her 29 the Junior Division of the WINLOTT U15 Cricket attempts, and Denel Creese who Secondary Schools’ segment. Tournament, to be held in had 17 of her 21 tries tallied. And, the Troumaca Ontario Dominica from December 10 to For the Girls’ High School, ensured that the Girls’ High 19. Julicia Matthews scored 8 of 11 School left the Kingstown Netball McDonald, in his third year and Milicia Quashie scored 13 of Centre, without any silverware, at this level, will have Kodi her 18. by taking the Senior title. Grant as his vice-captain. In the third place play offs, In the Junior Division among The full squad reads, played in Friday, Fitz Hughes the Secondary Schools, West St Devante Devonte McDonald (captain), Government had a 14-12 win over George led in all quarters, 9-7, 21Kodi Grant (vice-captain), McDonald the Chateabelair Methodist in the 10, 28-13, before winning by a 17Kevin Shallow, Sam Burke, Primary segment; North Union goal margin. Zach Thomas, AJ Delpesche, Dexroy Hooper, got past Bethel High 25-23 in the For the new champions, Javan Richardson, Kevin Joseph, Luke Browne, Juniors of the Secondary Schools, Annecia Dallaway registered 22 of Alston Bobb Jr, Elron Glasgow. and Mountain View Academy her 38 attempts, while Shaniya Reserves are Mbeke King, Dexter Baynes, edged out Georgetown Secondary, Clement had 13 of her 27 counted. Jaden Henry and Damalli Phillips. 19-18 in the Seniors. At the other end of the court, Bertram Stapleton is the team’s coach, with The Presentation Ceremony for the Girls’ High School shootersKenroy Martin as his assistant. The manager is the Netball Championship will be Abigail Richards, scored 14 of 21 Samuel Holder. Senior Division Secondary twinned with that of the Football and Nickyla Tannis- 4 of her 9. Schools champions- The competition, which will conclude The Girls’ High School got out I.B.A.ALLEN Troumaca Secondary. this Sunday at the Victoria Park.
CARL DICKSON, who was last Saturday elected as the new President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), has promised to work with all stakeholders, for the betterment of the sport. Delivering his victory speech, Dickson told affiliates present at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, “Football is an all-inclusive game and an all-inclusive sport, and if you know me and you know me well, you will recognise that in my quiet disposition, there is something that you must know fundamentally about me... I
Schools netball champs decided
McDonald to lead SVG U15 Cricket Team
V
28. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
Mc Dowall wins 4th straight NACAC 10K
VINCENTIAN LINDA MC DOWALL made it four straight wins in the Female International segment of the NACAC Chatoyer 10K, which was run last Sunday from Gordon Yard to the Chateaubelair Playing Field. Mc Dowall’s winning time was 50 minutes 11.70 seconds. In the process, she stopped Kenyan -Veronica Jepkoskei from upstaging her. Jepkoskei was second in 52 minutes 24.40 seconds. Third was Grenadian Kenisha Pascal in 59 minutes 33.60 seconds Alex Akesa (left) accepts his winnings and fourth was Odesha John of ITfrom President of the SVG Olympic DAT Academy in 1 hour 09 minutes 52 Committee- Trevor Bailey. seconds. Caswin Prince continued his But while Mc Dowall the top five finishers, with a time of 46 dominance among the Masters. retained her title, fellow minutes 04.30 seconds. Linda Mc Dowall – easily Vincentian, Junior The first places in each category Meanwhile, Meshach Dublin of added a fourth title in the Ashton, running earned US$ 1300; second places- $700, Sparta added another hold of the Male Female International unattached, was not able while third places earned $500. Open by clocking 47 minutes 54.30 segment of the NACAC to replicate the titles won The fourth places got $250 and fifth seconds, to win from IT- DAT Chatoyer 10K. in the last three years. place - $100. Academy’s Slyford Lampkin, second, Ashton, in a time of 40 and Tyrique Scott, third. minutes 04.50 seconds, Local Categories Anica Westfield, representing the Xtrailed Kenyan Alex Cel Track Club, copped the Female Akesa, to the finish line. Marlene Richards of the Central Open clocking 1 hour 03 minutes 58.60 The Kenyan clocked 39 Leeward Secondary School took the seconds. Second was Ashanti Richards minutes 43.20 seconds, Female Under-20 title in a 1 hour 8 of the Central Leeward Secondary and was also the first to minuted 03.80 seconds. She was School, and third Minia Sillanpaa of the 5Km mark, to win followed by Shernelle Lampkin- ITthe Richmond Vale Academy. himself an additional DAT Academy and Felina Bothur of And, Caswin Prince stamped his US$100 for that feat. the Richmond Vale Academy in that dominance on the Masters’ Category, Taking the third spot order. winning in a time of 52 minutes 46 was Josnel Ashton of Taking the Male Under-20 title was seconds, ahead of Roger Young of the “I am pleased with my performances for the year, Chatoyer in 45 minutes Ziel Spring of the Troumaca Ontario both locally and regional.” IT- DAT Academy in second, and Secondary School, in a time of 45 This is how ace distance runner Linda McDowall 07.60 seconds. Markie Leonard Ballantyne in third. Edwards of IT- DAT minutes 54.40 seconds. summed up her 2019 calendar of races, when THE The top five finishers in the local Academy took fourth in He was followed by Jeremy Phillips categories also received cash prizes. VINCENTIAN spoke with her earlier this week. 45 minutes 39.70 of the X- Cel Track Club in second Fifty -three athletes participated in She added, “I would sum up my year as an this year’s event, dubbed the World’s excellent one where I recorded wins regionally, and seconds, and Grenadian — place, and Devondre Dowling of the Troumana Ontario Secondary in third. Most Challenging 10K. where I registered my personal best…also finishing Livron Thorne closed off off the year with the local endurance race”. Looking back on her performances at the regional level, she recalled winning the Water Fall 10k and retaining her CARICOM 10K title in St Lucia; finishing second in the South America 10K in Guyana; and third in the UWI Half Marathon in Trinidad and Tobago where she achieved a personal best of 1:27:28. As for the local circuit, Mc Dowall was overly elated to have had her fourth straight lien on the NACAC Chatoyer International Endurance 10K title. That race was staged last weekend, and BRERETON HOUSE are repeat As for individual began at Gordon Yard and finished at the Athletics Champions of champions, in the Chateaubelair Playing Field. Under 9 category But the highlights of her year’s accomplishments, Kingstown Preparatory School These young female athletes gave of their best. (KPS). Brereton House she described as “…When I retained my title in the Last week at the Arnos Vale provided the Boys CARICOM 10k in St Lucia and winning the SVG the top award for the Under 11 Playing Field, they amassed 420 Champion - Katriel Bailey and TA Chatoyar Endurance 10K, a race where I Girls, while Drequan Mckie from points to stay ahead of Wilson the Girls Champion - Ahdriana defeated the Kenyan athlete on home soil because John House did likewise among House on 402, John House with Glasgow. they come like a storm, so it was pleasing to the Under 11 Boys. 388 and Eustace House on 355 Under 11 champ Diandre achieve that feat.” The Under 13 Girls champion points. Archibal of Wilson House copped McDowall is looking forward to next year with was Jadet Roberts great anticipation. Once she maintains her current of Eustace House, mindset, she hopes to achieve her objectives. and Janaldo Payne She is confident that she has done enough to be of Brereton House named Senior Females Athlete of the Year, an was the Boys award she has copped the last three years. Champion. And as she looked back over the year, she Jadet Roberts expressed “immense gratitude” to her coach Michael was the Meet’s Ollivierre for all the work he has put in with her Victrix Ludorum over the years; Ministers of Government Camillo and Janaldo Payne Gonsalves and Cecil Mc Kie for their support; and the Victor to the general public “for being in my corner and Ludorum. offering ongoing support.” Athletes lined up in their respective Houses for the formal opening of the Meet I.B.A.ALLEN Champions Brereton House on the right. I.B.A.ALLEN
McDowall pleased with 2019 performance
Brereton House retains KPS Athletics title
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 29.
Sports
In addition I WAS NOT FOLLOWING DEVELOPMENTS off the field or I would have drawn a hint on the changes in the football administration. The transformation will be rapid, for Marvin Fraser had promised to represent the nation at the Concacaf meeting where the draw for the finals round to the Gold Cup will be made. It so happens that Fraser will not do so now; he has been replaced as president. So Vincy Heat will have to fight another bout if they are to make it to the Gold Cup. Perhaps it is a blessing in disguise. The extended run will provide the administrators with sufficient time to get ready for high intensity battles. That segment might be the boost the team needed. Those manoeuvrings will continue amid the throes of West Indies tour to India. The battle persists for ranking and status, at the various formats, and then the T/20 World Cup looms into focus. A round up of events over the year will climax with the annual sports award. It will be premature to highlight any performances, for it may seem to pre-empt the authority’s selections. Suffice it to say that rewards for outstanding performances are in order and indeed welldeserved. There is no doubt that the level of individual and also team performances continue to improve. But one will await the official pronouncement. The Masters Cricket competition is heading towards its climax. That platform has developed as a showpiece for those youngsters who might have missed out on some sort of limelight. That competition has intensified to such an extent that there are plans to subdivide the league to cater for those of the real Master type, so as to avoid collision with the more vibrant junior masters. That might be dealt with, or perhaps never, for such issues come as something of a seasonal nature. There will be nothing taken for granted when the finalists of the Jules Anthony Vinlec North Leeward T/20 are settled this weekend. Rose Bank Big League have the opportunity of making their name real in their semi-final with defending champions Police. Action in that encounter rolls off at 2:00 pm. Big League moved into semis with a victory over Peto Stars in last Sunday’s quarterfinal. Zemron Providence’s unbeaten 35, steered Big League to 128 for 5 off 18.1 overs to seal the win over Peto Stars. They struggled to 127 for 7 off their 20 overs. Shamon Hooper 33 and Vedol Edwards 28 not out led the scoring for Peto Stars. Hooper’s 3 for 21 threatened to spoil Big League party, but support was lacking. Ruddy’s Electrical advanced by way of a better run rate over Ajuba of Spring. Ajuba stumbled to 80 all out off 15.1 overs led by Jomo Toney 21. Hyron Shallow ensured the low score with 4 for 12. He was at the crease when his team reached 40 for 0 after seven overs when rain interrupted. The final is set for December 8. Ruddy’s Electrical battles Rose Hall Future Legends in the bid for the other final spot.
Mustique into Masters T20 Finals
DEFENDING CHAMPIONS Mustique Company are through to the finals of the SVG Masters T20 Cricket Competition, following quarter and semi-finals wins over the weekend. In their quarter finals against North Windward at Park Hill, Mustique were victorious by 93 runs. They posted a formidable 245 for 3 off 20 overs and held their opponents to 152 for 9 off 20 overs, Michael Charles snaring 3 for 16. Chadwick Carrington 83, Nicholas Baptiste 72 and captain O’Neil Thomas 61 led Mustique batting. Ruben Edwards, 56 not out, led for North Windward. Mustique then defeated RSVG Police on a faster scoring rate in their semi-final encounter. Mustique batted first and reached 106 for 4 off a revised 13 overs due to rain, Thomas getting 30 and Roy Baptiste 25. RSVG Police replied with 67 for 7 off 10.3 overs when play ended. Caswell Dorsette and Cedric Cupid took 2
L-R: Chadwick Carrington, 83; Nicholas Baptiste,72; and O’Neil Thomas, 61. wickets each. Police claimed a semifinal berth when they had the better of Stanley Browne’s Stubbs Masters by 8 wickets, at Sion Hiill. Scores: Stubbs 126 for 4 off 20 overs - Kissinger McLean 54 not out, Leon Samuel 3 for 17; RSVG Police 127 for 2 off 20 overs - Gosnel Cupid 81 not out. In another quarterfinals at Arnos Vale One, North East Masters defeated Sion Hill Masters by 8 wickets. Scores: Sion Hill 92 for 8 off 20 overs Lauren Baptiste 29 not out, Joseph Carrington 3 for 27, Harvey Pope 2 for 16; North East 93 for 2 off 14.4 overs - Harvey
Pope 45 not out, Dyke Cato 29. At Buccament Joseph Da Silva Memorial Funeral Home North Leeward Masters defeated A R & G Trucking P’tani Masters by 22 runs. Scores: North Leeward 158 for 6 off 20 overs - William Edwards 41, Alphie Gould 36, Isaac Haywood 2 for 2; P’tani 136 for 9 off 20 overs - Alfred McKenzie 38, Zenus Samuel 33. Alfie Gould 3 for 7, Nelson Williams 3 for 28. North East will face North Leeward this Sunday 1st December from 9.15am at Sion Hill to decide who will come up against Mustique in the grand final, set for Sunday 8th December from 1.15pm at the Sion Hill Playing Field. I.B.A.ALLEN
Marriaqua takes Constituency Netball Title MARRIAQUA held off a last quarter challenge from Central Leeward at the Kingstown Netball Centre on Monday, to take the title of Constituency champions. The teams, both sporting some prominent players in the country, were level at 7 at the end of the first quarter. Marriaqua enjoyed a three-goal lead, 17-14, at the halfway mark, and remained in the ascendancy, 30-24, at the end of the third quarter. Central Leeward, though, clawed their way back to tie the encounter 38-38 with under a minute to go. But Marriaqua made good of their two centre passes, to win the battle 40-38. For Marriaqua, Skiddy Francis scored 26 of her 34 attempts, Kemeisha Antoine - 11
from 17, and Kemisha Francis - 3 out of 3. For Central Leeward, Deslyn Jeffers registered 22 of her 29 attempts, and Meshanda Creese- 16 from 21. In the third place play off which preceded the final, North Windward got past Central Kingstown, 2625. The other competing teams were West St George, South Leeward, Northern Grenadines, South Central Windward and North Central Windward. This year’s Constituency Netball
Marriaqua – 2019 Constituency Netball champions. Tournament, which was orgainsed by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association, marked a return after a twelveyear absence. The Closing and
Presentation Ceremony for the Tournament will be held alongside that of the Firms and Industrial Tournament, set for the Kingstown Netball Centre on Saturday 7th December.
30. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2019. 31.
Classifieds
Dean-Alexander ready to go SPECIAL OLYMPICS SWIM COACH Ricky DeanAlexander is rearing and ready to go after completing a Train-theTrainer Swimming Course hosted by the Michael Phelps Foundation in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. The three-day training workshop from November 15 — 17 equipped participants with the skills to coach athletes with Intellectual Disabilities. According to Special Olympics SVG National Director Sezevra Joseph, the training was timely and very important for the development of the Swimming Programme for Ricky Dean-Alexander persons with disability. The first Swimming with Michael Phelps Clinic for Special Olympics Athletes and Coaches will take place early in January, and it is expected that Alexander will impart his newly acquired skills and knowledge. Meanwhile, the organization is currently recruiting athletes and coaches for its National Sports Programme, which includes bocce, football, floorball, swimming, tennis and track and field. Training for all sports will resume on January 6, 2020.
LAND FOR SALE Calder Ridge, 3+ acres 26,577 sq. ft. Tel: 485-6693 RESIDENTIAL LOTS AT BRIGHTON
at $12.00 per sq. ft. 4167 sq. ft. 5542 sq.ft. 7501 sq.ft. Call 457-2788 or 454-2227
I.B.A.ALLEN
JOHN AUGUSTUS CAMPBELL
FOR RENT 2 bedroom furnished apartment at Belair - Short Term A/C bedroom Parking available Tel: 454-4739
CORNICLUS MICHAEL GEORGE
GARFIELD RAGGUETTE
St. Matthias Anglican Church Tuesday, December 3rd, 2019 Viewing: 2:00 p.m. Service: 3:00 p.m. Interment: Ashton Cemetery
MICHAEL A. JOHN DUNCAN
Layou SDA Church Sunday, November 24th, 2019 Interment: Layou Cemetery
Kingstown Evangelical Church Monday, November 25th, 2019 Service: 2:30 p.m.
Ottley Hall SDA Church Sunday, November 24th, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Kingstown Cemetery
ST CLAIR AUGUSTUS WILLIAMS
EFFIE BABY HAZELWOOD Alias Baby Din-Din
ELFINA JEFFERS LETTEEN
LORENZO HENRY
Glad Tidings Tabernacle, Gomea Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:00 p.m. Interment: Belair Cemetery
Wesley-an Holiness Church, Layou Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 Viewing: 12:30 p.m. Service: 1:45 p.m. Interment: Layou Cemetery
Berean Baptist Church, Georgetown Saturday, November 23rd, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m. Service: 2:30 p.m. Interment: Georgetown Cemetery
Apostolic Faith Church, Dickson Village Saturday, 23rd November, 2019 Viewing: 12 noon Service: 1:30 p.m. Interment: Georgetown Cemetery
F O R S A L E
FRIDAY,
NOVEMBER 29, 2019
VOLUME 113, No.44
A.I. REAL ESTATE Swan House business opportunity rent to own. 828 sq.ft building on 3,750 sq.ft land. CALL - CC210 (784)- 457-2087 office (784)-533-0431 whatsapp (784)-493-9431 cell (718)-807-4376 office donp@vincysurf.com www.aisvg.com facebook.com/airealestatesvg
www.thevincentian.com
EC$1.50
SVG BANS PLASTIC SHOPPING BAGS
Minister of Health Luke Browne introduced, in Parliament, Government’s move to ban plastic bags, and hinted at future, similar action. motion that will see a ban on the two THE USE OF SINGLE-USE commodities. plastic bags and plastic “The Government of St containers in St. Vincent Vincent and the and the Grenadines will Grenadines is making an cease as of August 1, environmental thrust. It 2020 and January 1, 2021 wasn’t long ago that we respectively. imposed a ban on the use Minister of Health, of Styrofoam containers Wellness and the and allowed our country Environment Luke to breathe a sigh of Browne announced in relief, and based on the Parliament on Tuesday evidence before us, that government had dramatically reduced already gazetted a pollution,” Browne said. by DAYLE DA SILVA
He indicated that he signed a Statutory Rule and Order (SRO), entitled the ‘Environmental Health Control Disposable Plastics Regulations 2019’, on Monday. The purpose of the SRO, according to the Health Minister, was to ban the use of single-use plastic shopping bags and certain plastic food containers. “As such, according to Section 3 of the Regulations that are being put in place, a person shall not import disposable plastic shopping bags from March 1, 2020, or disposable plastic containers from August 1, 2020. And a person shall not distribute, sell or use disposable plastic shopping bags from August 1, 2020 and disposable plastic food containers from January 1, 2021,” Minister Browne elaborated. However, the new Regulations with respect to single-use plastic bags, did not prohibit all types of plastic bags. The SRO, as Browne explained, allowed for the continued import and use of number of plastic bags such as bread bags,
bags used in the sale of fresh fish, garbage bags and bags used to hold seedlings and young plants. Bags used for the storage or disposal of medications and bags made from biodegradable material as well as bags manufactured locally for export will not be banned. According to Browne, government would have preferred to impose the ban sooner. However, the action was delayed so as to allow sufficient
time for local suppliers to produce more exhaust existing stocks; environmentally friendly to afford local plastic bag products; to ensure manufacturers to retool their processes to Continued on Page 3.
POLICE OFFICER CHARGED WITH RAPE
Right: Corporal Derrick Humphrey
charged with indecently assaulting another A POLICE OFFICER woman on a separate attached to the Vermont date. Police Station was THE VINCENTIAN expected to appear in understands that the Court yesterday charges were laid on (Thursday), to answer Wednesday evening, charges of rape and following investigations indecent assault. carried out by the Corporal Derrick Sexual Offences Unit Humphrey has been (SOU) of the Royal St. charged with raping a Vincent and the 15-year-old girl on Grenadines Police Force November 24. He is also (RSVGPF), into both by HAYDN HUGGINS
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
reports. Meanwhile, up to press time Wednesday, investigations were ongoing into a report of rape against another police officer.
Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.