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FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 09, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.41

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Minibus operators have been complaining about the state of the roads for sometime now.

Senator Julian Francis, Minister of State in the Ministry of Transport and Works, is hopeful that the threat of strike action by mini- bus operators will be called off. (Photo credit: SVGBC)

executive was yet to receive any official notification on the AS OF 11AM yesterday, the demands put forward to withdrawal of services by Minister of State in the minibus owners and operators Ministry of Transport and planned for October 12 was still Works Senator Julian Francis imminent. and Commissioner of Police However, the decision to go Michael Charles. forward with the planned Francis was expected to action was likely to have make a decision and provide changed since then.

NOBA with a list of roads that According to Anthony ‘Code will be given priority, under Red’ Bacchus, President of the the roads repair programme.

National Omni-bus Charles was expected to meet Association (NOBA), the with the head of the traffic

by DAYLE DA SILVA

department of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, to discuss the application submitted to allow mini-buses to utilize the Town Hill/Sion Hill/Cane Garden route, between 4pm and 6pm, an application that had been previously denied.

Both documents were expected to be presented to NOBA yesterday.

Bacchus remained confident that all the demands would be

met, but said, until he had received official, written documentation in his hand, the withdrawal of services was still on.

Francis said on Tuesday night on his weekly radio programme, that Bacchus met with him, in the presence of the Commissioner of Police, and that he was confident that the executive of NOBA would change their mind before the week ended, about staging any protest action.

TEACHERS, PUBLIC SERVANTS TO WITHDRAW SERVICES TEACHERS and Public Servants here have given notice of heightened industrial action.

A joint release by the

SVG Teachers Union (SVGTU) and the Public Service Union (PSU) made available late on Wednesday 7th October, indicated that the

unions had taken a decision on that day to withdraw “the services of their members”, on Tuesday 13th October.

The reason given for

the action was to demonstrate their disgust with government’s position in refusing to grant their request of a one-month

President of NOBA, Anthony ‘Code Red’ Bacchus, blew hot and cold on the issue of whether the strike is on or off. (Photo credit: SVGBC)

Oswald Robinson, President of the SVGTU, assured that the decision to call on teachers to withdraw their services was a majority decision of the union. tax free salary, in lieu of no salary increase for the past year.

Continued on Page 3.

Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

DIGICEL cops Ethicalcorp award Left: St Michel du Sud National School (a Primary School) was rebuilt by the Digicel Foundation In 2007. The Foundation also provided support for training teachers, teaching materials and books.

These pre-schoolers found their own way of saying thank you to Digicel (Merci Digicel).

DIGICEL, a leading provider of communications and entertainment services in

the Caribbean and South Pacific, has won a 2015 Ethicalcorp Responsible Business Award, for its efforts to help rebuild the education system in Haiti, following that country’s devastating 2010 earthquake.

The Ethicalcorp Responsible Business Awards recognise companies that adopt and promote responsible business practices throughout their organisation, improving the lives of their customers and the communities in which they operate.

Digicel was selected as winner in the ‘Most Effective International Community Investment’ category, from a shortlist of eight global companies, including Barclays, the Hershey Company, Primark, UPS and Vestergard, at an awards ceremony at the Cumberland Hotel in London, September 25th.

Haiti’s education system was on the verge of collapse as a result of the 2010 earthquake, which destroyed 90 percent of the country’s infrastructure.

Through the Digicel Foundation, Digicel kickstarted reconstruction efforts by increasing the number of schools it committed to build in local communities from 20 to 50. Digicel further expanded its support by

building more permanent, earthquake-resistant buildings, funding teacher training courses and creating jobs throughout local communities.

To date, the Digicel Foundation has invested more than US$39 million in its school-building project, completing 150 schools and creating more than 10,500 construction jobs, making it the single largest school builder in the Caribbean.

Digicel Group CEO, Colm Delves, said; “Supporting our communities and the needy across the world is a core part of Digicel’s ethos of giving back and helping the less fortunate. It was an easy decision for Digicel to help those who were severely affected by the 2010 earthquake in Haiti — especially the children who were at a significant disadvantage due to the widespread destruction of schools across the country.”

Today, more than 50,000 students in Haiti attend schools built by the Digicel Foundation.

Digicel continues to nurture education throughout Haiti, with an additional investment of US$12 million to fund critical teacher training and development programmes, all of which help to ensure Haiti’s young people enjoy the bright future they deserve.

No IPO by Digicel A SCHEDULED INITIAL Public Offering (IPO) by Digicel on the New York Stock Exchange has been put on hold.

Digicel, in a statement from its Bermuda offices, issued late on Tuesday, said, “Despite significant support for the IPO from a high-quality group of investors during the marketing period, current conditions, particularly in emerging markets, have impacted transaction momentum over recent days.”

Chairman of Digicel, Denis O’Brien, is reported to have added to the explanation for the withdrawal, saying, “Given our growth outlook, an IPO for Digicel was optional and predicated on achieving fair value for the company. Recent volatility in equity markets has seen a number of IPOs listing at a discount to their signalled price range, and this was a less attractive route for us.”

There was no indication of whether the company would reconsider ‘floating’ the IPO in the future.

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News 3 PM: ÂNo fight with the teachersÊ

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 3.

No way the government could afford an increase for teachers and public servants, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told a recent town hall meeting in New York.

town hall meeting two Saturdays ago at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, New York, “I don’t want to IN THE FACE of threatened pick a fight with the strike action by teachers teachers and public and civil servants in St. servants. …. I’ve always Vincent and the been in their corner.”

Grenadines, Prime Referring to the total Minister and Minister of amount that the teachers Finance Dr. Ralph E. will receive if the Gonsalves hopes the government accedes to leadership of the SVG the one-off tax free Teachers Union and the month’s salary, the Public Service Union will prime minister said, “I’m understand that his always looking for ways administration simply does in which I can help, but not have the financial the government cannot capacity to grant a wage offer $25 million,” hike. adding, “I believe most of Dr. Gonsalves told a the teachers and public

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@ yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

servants do not think it’s reasonable to ask for $25 million,” continued Gonsalves.

He claimed that “there are other people with other agendas,” stating that “the president of the teachers’ union [Oswald Robinson] is an honorable man.”

The Vincentian leader said that, since 2001, teachers in general “would have done fairly well,” disclosing that, since that time, 60 percent of teachers and the police have received increments of 2 percent.

He said that teachers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and St. Kitts

and Nevis are the only ones in the sub-regional Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) who have received 2 percent increments.

“I’m just saying [that] there is not a capacity of the government to pay,” Gonsalves said.

“The government has suffered a difficult period with five national disasters. As always, I’ve tried my best with the teachers.”

In order to grant the

Strike on, Strike off: Commuters kept in suspense

Bacchus told THE VINCENTIAN that he identified “I will tell you why. We were areas including Glen, discussing the matter of roads Mesopotamia, Belmont, Victoria and, despite all the statements Village and Roseau. that were being made before, I In terms of priority work, took my time, and I outlined to Francis said on his radio Bacchus and his two deputies, on programme that extensive the work that we were doing in patching work was on-going along road repair right now, and the the Windward Highway, which programme that we have in mind was refurbished a few years ago, for road repairs,” he said. but there were some weak areas Both sides presented a list of where potholes had developed. roads, Francis producing one “We cannot afford to have that where he outlined work that has road deteriorate, we have to already started, and Bacchus maintain that highway and there pointing to those areas that have been significant cutting and NOBA thought needed some patching on that highway,” the urgent attention. minister state said.

A priority list of roads that will Road repairs in progress be looked at was expected to be submitted to the NOBA executive According to the minister of

by Wednesday. state, road work was currently in Francis said that he had the progress in areas of East St Chief Executive Officer and Chief George, along the road from Engineer at BRAGSA putting Calliaqua to Belmont; in South together this list, and that he had Central Windward – from the already had submissions made by gap to Lowmans (Windward) up Parliamentary Representatives to Lauders and into Chapmans, and candidates of areas that and from Diamond through to ought to be included in the Mount Grennan. priority list.

Patching was also on the way But Bacchus said that he was in Queen’s Drive and, on Tuesday, satisfied with the explanation patching work had started along the public road beginning at Sally given saying that the executive Spring to the entrance to Murray would accept a combination of both lists.

Village.

Continued from Page 1.

“As long as we see that they are fixing the roads, then the strike is off,” Bacchus said.

The access issue The other issue, that for allowing mini-buses to access the Town Hill route at specified hours of the day, was not for him to make a decision on, Francis said, but rather a matter for the police.

And, according to Francis, the members of NOBA present at Monday’s meeting had given the police up until yesterday, October 8, to make a decision as it related to this issue.

When THE VINCENTIAN contacted Commissioner Charles on Wednesday morning, he indicated that, while no decision had been made up to that point, the decision could be in favour of the omnibus association.

He said that he was expected to meet with the head of the traffic department, during which a decision would be made.

But while NOBA could see its request for an ‘express route’ granted during limited hours of the day, the COP said that if permission was granted, it would have to take into consideration certain conditions regarding the flow of traffic.

teachers the demanded 8 ½ increase, the prime minister said he would have to cut other entitlement programs, such as Home Health for the elderly, public assistance, Youth Empowerment, the

SETH program and the housing program.

“The teachers and their children can benefit from these programmes,” Gonsalves said. “But there’s one pot of money, and they [teachers] know I’ll work with them.”

Teachers, Public Servants to withdraw services Continued from Front page The release also carried an appeal to all parents/guardians, “to keep their children/wards at home on this day.”

In a telephone interview with President of the SVGTU, Oswald Robinson, he said the decision was taken after careful consideration and dialogue with members of both unions.

He said that for a long time the government has been saying that they cannot afford the payment, but appears not to be making any real effort so to do.

The Prime Minister has to make an effort, after all “he is very creative,” Robinson quipped.

Robinson lamented that some persons have been personally attacking him, and assured that the decision was one that was made with the support of the majority of the SVGTU members, explaining that on 2nd September during Branch Day, a resolution came up to demaand the money be paid, and that the union does all that is necessary to get a favorable response.

“What I don’t like is how some persons want to make it out about me. I don’t have anything against the Government,” declared Robinson.

He said that many issues are affecting teachers, but “we have been silent; now we want to deal with the issues.”

The call for the withdrawal of services by teachers and public servants is for one day only.

“If our demands are not met, we will regroup and decide the way forward,” Robinson told THE VINCENTIAN.

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4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

First human trafficking charge laid Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS HISTORY WAS CREATED in St. Vincent and the Grenadines this week, when Adrian Deane, a 61year-old, said to be a businessman, became the first person to be charged under the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2011.

Deane, a resident of Brighton, also became the first person to be charged, since the Anti Trafficking in Persons Unit (ATIPU) of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, was established March 12, 2012.

Deane has been charged on three counts of engaging in trafficking in persons. He reportedly committed the offences between May 11 and September 30 this year, at Brighton.

It is alleged that he enticed three Jamaicans (sex or sexes not disclosed), then resident in the Cayman Islands, to come to SVG to work for him, but did not pay them for their labour.

The matter was reported to the police and investigations led to

Adrian Deane - the first person to be charged here under the Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2011.

Kingstown shooting, cause for concern

COMMISSIONER of Police Michael Deane.

Charles views the He is charged manner in which a under Section 5, “We are recent shooting in sub-section 1 of the Prevention of not Kingstown was Trafficking in Persons Act of condoning executed, as 2011. any Acts of “strange and a The charges were laid Human cause for concern.” indictably, and Deane, who was Trafficking.

The represented by attorney Richard We will Commissioner was Williams, was not required to continue to referring to an plead when he appeared before sensitize the incident in which Magistrate Carla James at the general 25-year-old Dexter Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, on public on Rodney of Rockies Tuesday. what is Human Trafficking, and was shot twice in He was granted composite bail we will continue to investigate in the sum of $80,000 with one the stomach and any report that comes to our surety, on condition that he attention,” said Supt. Jacobs, who once in the left arm, surrender his travel documents, also heads the Criminal as he emerged from report to the Calliaqua Police Investigation Department (CID). a popular business Dexter Rodney remained Station on Mondays and Fridays, In delivering the keynote place on Lower Bay warded at the MCMH, and and that he does not have contact address at the opening session, Street, October 1, was expected to undergo with the alleged victims.

September 23, of a two-day Anti shortly after surgery.

When contacted on Wednesday, Human Trafficking training midday.

Director of the Anti-Trafficking in seminar, Minister of Foreign The top cop told Persons Unit, Superintendent Affairs Senator Camillo Gonsalves THE VINCENTIAN that, in his view, the manner Ruth Jacobs, described the lauded Jacobs, Commissioner of in which the shooting was carried out was not development as historic. She Police Michael Charles and others within the norm, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. indicated that the fact that the involved, for the hard work they He noted that the attacker was unmasked, did matter was reported shows that have been doing. not hide to commit the offence, and that the persons are understanding the “We will continue to put up the incident occurred in broad daylight, in the presence real issues of Human Trafficking. no entry signs to people who want of several persons. “This is cause for concern,” the to use SVG for this Commissioner stated. dastardly act. We will Charles said that in the past, persons who continue to be hostile carried out attacks of this nature would be masked towards human or would hide to commit the act, to avoid trafficking,” Senator identification.

Gonsalves said at the Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN from his bed time. at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on Monday, Rodney explained that just before opening fire, the gunman told him that he heard, “somebody pay me COMMISSIONER OF POLICE to kill him.”

Michael Charles has lauded his That allegation, men for their quick response to according to Rodney, is a situation at the popular night false. spot, Huffles Ranch, Belvedere, The victim said that, last Saturday. on receiving the bullets, “I want to commend the he fell, and the assailant police for their quick response ran. with regard to the protection of “Everybody see him, life and property,” the top cop he didn’t have on no Commissioner told THE VINCENTIAN. mask,” Rodney recalled. of Police Police reports are that He was in stable Michael Charles preliminary investigations condition, but has found good revealed that police officers complained of being were on duty at Huffles Ranch reason to last Saturday, when they heard commend some unable to eat, and said he was expected to of his officers. the sound of gunshots in the undergo surgery on vicinity, shortly after 5:30 a.m.

Tuesday.

The lawmen then spotted a man shooting at The incident was another, and gave chase. The gunman started among a number of shooting in the direction of the police, who shootings to have returned fire. occurred within the past The body of the gunman, identified as Rawlson two weeks, some fatal.

Williams of Questelles, was discovered next to a The Commissioner .357 revolver in some nearby bushes. explained that while the At press time Wednesday, THE VINCENTIAN police continued regular was unable to ascertain the results of an autopsy. patrols, their presence The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been increased in Police Force (RSVGPF) has launched an areas where the investigation into Williams’ death. shootings have occurred.

When questioned about the level of security at Up to press time Huffles Ranch, the Commissioner explained that like other business places throughout the country, Wednesday, no arrest had been made in the proprietor of the night spot has employed connection with any of police officers for traffic and security purposes. these incidents.

Police lauded for quick response

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 5.

News

Road repairs delayed by asphalt shortage

by DAYLE DA SILVA A DIFFICULTY in allocating asphalt (hot mix) is causing delays in a heightened road repair programme here.

According to Senator Julian Francis, Minister of State in the Ministry of Transport and Works, the problem is causing as much as two to three week delays in rehabilitative work across the nation’s network of roads.

While speaking on his weekly ‘ULP Speaks’ radio programme on Tuesday, Francis said that there were some challenges as far as the hot mix was concerned.

“And supply of aggregate from the quarries, this is a challenge,” he said.

There is an asphalt plant at the construction site of the Argyle International Airport; however, Francis said that apart from the fact that the asphalt produced there is to be used in the paving of the Argyle Airport runway, it was not as readily available for use in other projects.

“So we have a delay of two to three weeks after we have zipped the road, before we can get the hot mix,” Francis said.

A supply of asphalt supply from the Argyle International Airport plant was not assured and proved irregular.

as it related to the proposed strike action by the National Omnibus Association (NOBA) during a press briefing on Monday, had admitted that one of the problems is that of the availability of asphalt.

One of the issues that the executive members of the NOBA advanced in support of its decision to withdraw their service on Monday 12th October, was the condition of some of the roads in the country.

But Gonsalves explained that there was also a problem finding the material which is needed for the hot mix.

“You need stones of a Stone problem particular type,” Gonsalves explained.

Prime Minister Dr And while he said that Ralph Gonsalves, who a decision was taken to recently assumed the leave quarrying as an portfolio as the Minister of activity to be carried out Transport and Works, and by the private sector, he while addressing the issue said that there were some

challenges there.

“Dipcon on the Leeward highway had to bring in their own plant for the asphalt, and in order to get stones, the chief engineer just asked for permission for Dipcon to import stones from Dominica,” the Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Works said.

There are quarries here, Gonsalves continued, but they were not producing the raw material fast enough to keep up with the demand.

“So it is easy for a man to talk, but you have to sit back and look at capacity problems,” he said.

“If the government gets involved in quarrying, you will hear that they taking bread out of people mouth who traditionally do this, but (yet) when you have a big programme, the demand cannot be satisfied,” Gonsalves added.

US$5m agreement signed with Mexico AN AGREEMENT between the governments of Mexico and St Vincent and the Grenadines will see the release of US$5 million for work to begin on the bridge in Spring (North Leeward).

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said on Monday, during a press briefing, that he had signed the agreement with the Mexican Foreign Minister, Claudia Ruiz Massieu, during his recent visit to the United States.

According to the prime minister, he had announced previously that the Mexican Government had agreed to give the assistance in the form of a grant.

“There has been a Bailey bridge there (Spring) for nearly 50 years and the storm in 2013 had shaken it,” he told members of the press.

In addition to attending to the bridge at Spring, some of the funds will also be used to build river defences and to erect a bailey bridge in the vicinity of the

A number of bridges in the North Leeward area were destroyed in the flood of Christmas Eve 2013.

VINLEC power plant at Cumberland.

Attention will also be given to widening the roads.

The road will be widened and construction on that will coincide with the construction of the Bailey bridge.

All the technical work has been completed, Gonsalves said.

Transfer of the promised funds to SVG is expected to be effected soon.

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6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Penn Relays – an inspiration for TSSS

Principal of the Thomas Saunders Secondary John Renton (seated 3rd from left), speaking at last Tuesday’s PRINCIPAL of the Thomas the school’s effort to Saunders Secondary School ensure participation in the launch of the school’s Penn Relays trip. Also (TSSS), John Renton, has re- 2016 Relays. . pictured are Twana affirmed that the school’s Renton added , “ This participation in the Penn Balcombe (seated left), translates to the whole Relays, USA, for the last five school... Their colleagues PE, Teacher Godfrey attend educational years, has been more than at school experience this Harry (seated 2nd from students in the USA.” just an athletics event. as well, and we are proud left) and studentPhysical Education “It gets them an of our athletes at Thomas athletes (standing). teacher at the Thomas opportunity, something to Saunders ... It is our Saunders Secondary, aspire towards, and in thing.”

Godfrey Harry, addressed doing so lifted the whole The school’s principal Beyond the Relays this issue.

Athletics programme... It highlighted the school’s He revealed that is a flagship event for our athletics programme as And as for the overall discussions are in progress school ... When students the catalyst to their benefits of taking part in with a college in New attend the Penn Relays , success at the annual the Penn Relays, Renton York, with the intention of they return with increased Inter Secondary Schools’ declared, “ St Vincent and having four athletes confidence in themselves Track and Field the Grenadines is being enrolled in the very near and increased sense of self Championships, which represented... Thomas future, in the college’s worth ”, Renton stated last propels them to the Penn Saunders Secondary athletics programme.

Tuesday, at Olympic Relays.

School is being House, at the launch of represented, and the Help from the Diaspora young people are getting a chance The TSSS is the first to develop their and only school from SVG athletic careers. to have ventured out to In addition to the internationally that, it is our hope acclaimed Penn Relays. It that one or more debuted in 2011, and has of our athletes will attended each year since be spotted by then, an undertaking he coaches in the described as being USA, and expensive, but one which ultimately we are is solely the school’s task. looking for He heaped praise on scholarships for members and support our students to groups in the Diaspora , The TSSS athletes to the 2015 Penn Relays.

who have played significant roles in the institution’s participation .

“I have to thank the Diaspora for their incredible support, especially Mr James Cordice , who every year organises the accommodation and transportation within Pennsylvania for our students... It is indeed incredible for them to raise funds and ensure that we are well looked after in Philadelphia “, Renton said.

Locally, several fundraising activities are planned to offset the cost of making the trip to the USA next April.

Renton thanked those who have assisted the school in the past, and called on others to do likewise so they can reach their target.

The experience

And, those athletes who have had the experience of going to the Penn Relays, have nothing but positives.

Mekelia Slater, who debuted this year, admitted that the training regiment leading up to the Penn Relays has assisted her personal development.

Similarly sentiments were expressed by Oleisha Ryan, Zenron Chance and Mickail Legair who are all eagerly anticipating a return to the Penn Relays to exhibit their athletics talents.

The TSSS competes in the Small High Schools’ category and intends to send 4 x100 and 4 x 400 teams for both males and females. They, however, will have to make the required standards (times) for the events, which they hope to attain when they attend the Barbados Relay Fairs in February next year.

Prayer Breakfast in aid of Penn Relays athletes the Brooklyn-based Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO).

James Cordice, considered the ‘life blood’ of the nation’s participation in the A NUMBER OF VINCENTIANS in the games, told THE VINCENTIAN that the United States recently showed their prayer breakfast “continues to be an support for Vincentian athletes excellent fundraiser” for Vincentian attending the illustrious Penn Relays in athletes.

Philadelphia, by patronizing a “One hundred percent of the proceeds fundraising prayer breakfast at the will be utilized for the hospitality of our Friends of Crown Heights Educational visiting track teams to Penn Relays Center.

2016,” he said, hoping that the St. Nationals said they were obligated to Vincent and the Grenadines Community support the cause, organized by College will join the Thomas Saunders Kingstown natives, sisters Rosita and Secondary School in taking part in the Evelyn Deshong and Yvette DeshongPenn Relays next year.

Laborde, and Claudette Thomas-Butler, “Though challenging, it can be done,” in conjunction with the umbrella added the Clare Valley native, stating Vincentian group in the United States, that, with hard work, perseverance and “the spirit of resiliency” the nation will eventually reap the benefits of its investment in the oldest and largest collegiate athletic event in the United States. Cordice said that the Female Team of the Thomas Saunders Secondary School — the only school in the nation that has Volunteers and organizers of prayer breakfast.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

participated in the Penn Relays for the past five years — ranked 53rd out of 364 competing schools in this year’s Penn Relays Carnival.

The Penn Relays are conducted annually for three successive days leading up to the last weekend in April.

Cordice said the fundraising prayer breakfast also “creates camaraderie amongst all facets of our community.

“We eat, drink and socialize, while worshipping at the same James Cordice serves a patron. time,” he said.

COSAGO president Laverne support the kids [Vincentian athletes],” McDowald-Thompson, whose Laborde said. “Whatever it takes to organization has been supporting the bring them here, we’ll support.”

Penn Relays initiative for the past five Rosita DeShong, who joined her years, said she was pleased by the sisters in helping to organize the prayer outpouring of support for the prayer breakfast for the past three years, said breakfast. she felt obligated to give back to her “I want to thank all our supporters native land. and friends for coming out to fellowship, “I don’t mind, I like to help; so I don’t to share friendship and to give thanks to mind participating and doing this,” she Almighty God in songs and praise, as we said. raise funds for truly a worthy cause,” The prayer breakfast featured, among she said. other things, gospel singing by local and Evesham-born Monica Laborde, guest artistes, including Jamaican president of the St. Vincent and the Marcia Allen, who belched out “The Grenadines Association of World was this Way” and “Once I was a Massachusetts, brought along two Child of the King.” members of her group for the prayer Patrons feasted on a variety of local breakfast — Ann Hewitt and Yvonne delicacies, including Black fish, Tri-Tri John. cakes, breadfruit and salt fish, and “It’s always a pleasure coming here to bakes and doughboy.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 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 Can we alleviate the scourge of crime?

NINETEEN HOMICIDES for the year to date, a string of gun-related incidents, a series of robberies with assault, burglaries, broad daylight grab and run robberies, 2015 so far, to many innocent citizens of this country, has been one they would like to forget but the burden weights too heavily to allow that.

Never before, according to cursory comments on the streets, have Vincentians felt so afraid in their own backyards. Never has there been such fear of ‘what could happen next’, as communities become victims of burgeoning crime, some related to the gang and drug menaces, others perpetuated, the sociologists say, by the severe shortage of real opportunities, especially for the youth, and the resulting unemployment that breeds ‘idleness on which the devil thrives’.

If readers will allow the extreme, we state here that it appears that state agencies and programmes by themselves, are failing in their intent to prevent criminal activity in our state.

But this is not a time to throw our hands aloft and surrender to the criminals and crime. The situation begs just the opposite, i.e. that we commit, as citizens of this country, with a right to a safe and unmolested existence, to participate in crime prevention measures.

This option, this calling, can prove indispensable, and has the potential to yield better results than those which we get, or don’t get from state agencies acting, or which choose to act on their own.

What we need is a genuine, unbiased, non-partisan partnership with communities across the board, in fighting crime.

Call it a crime prevention campaign or something else, but it must be driven by the justice system — the law, the courts, and the police moreso. Each arm must be cleansed of any veil of doubt, and be ready or made ready to join forces with the civilian population which is, by and large, the target of criminal activity.

The point is that tackling crime, which many describe as the fallout of a breakdown in our ‘moral fibre — families, education systems, etc. must involve the active participation of ordinary citizens.

In communities which are known to be targets of criminal activities, it is of vital importance that those communities ensure that their geographical area is not plagued by crime, Unfortunately, some of us are too often locked away in our ‘ivory towers’, some with sophisticated security systems, to be concerned about our neighbour’s safety. That disharmony obviously is an anathema.

And if the truth be told, those communities, referred to as ‘hot beds of crime’, which are riddled with theft, robbery, murder, rape, activities of gangs, illegal dealings of varied types, all of which overflow into the broader society, need to wake up to the reality and say, with the genuine support of system, that enough is enough.

Neighbourhood Watch Schemes should not be confined to so called built-up areas only; they should be encouraged in all communities — big, small and indifferent. It is understood that these Schemes have proved to be very effective in deterring house-breaking and theft, especially.

And those who operate above and below the counter pawn shops and the public, must refrain from buying stolen property as that provides a market for criminal elements.

As for those crimes perpetrated against our women, they (women) must wake up to a real acceptance of their own responsibilities to themselves and their families.

Too many of our women folk, (and this is where the issue of culture becomes factored into the whole crime scenario) open themselves to subjectivity and advantage by an already misguided male-dominated society.

The drinking, the sexual simulations that pass off as the ‘dance culture’, the ‘less is enough’ apparel, must be curbed if not avoided altogether.

This is not to exonerate the men who are wont to capitalise on the perceived weakness of women and the cultural supremacy with which they (men) perceived themselves to be gifted.

All in all, it is incumbent on each of us to report signs and acts of illegality. Not to do so is to fuel the scourge (crime) of which we complain so much, and with which we have to live.

And, the situation begs the question: Is there room for the introduction of commissioned community police officers?

The “Power” of Jules Ferdinand and Richard Cox LAST WEEK, like a bolt out of the Blue, Dr. Richard Byron-Cox used an excess of extravagant language to “pitchfork” Dr. Jules Ferdinand into a ditch. Ferdinand has now become a respected member and election candidate on behalf of Arnhim’s NDP which Cox loves to hate, as against Ralph’s ULP Government which he worshipfully admires.

Incidentally, in May 2009, at least 6 years before both men had declared their political partisanship, an interesting column dealt with them, as follows.

leaving a trail of destruction and mayhem in their wake.

I would prefer a more homely metaphor of “galloping Jackasses hell-bent on the path to their own destruction.”

Sadly, their suicidal actions entail widespread chaos. In Jules’ words “They can unravel the basic fabrics of society. They can inflict devastating blows to their perceived opponents and, in seeking to decapitate and Jules maim them, simultaneously amputate some of the basic support structures in society“I read, re-read, and reflected upon a decency, democracy, respect, and so on”. thousand times and continuing the article In the end, Jules notes that power is “The Vanity of Power” by Jules Ferdinand insatiable and grows by what it feeds on. which appeared in the “Vincentian” on April Therefore, it is society’s role to rein-in and act 30, last. as a check on the growth of power which runs It is a gem, the language so expressive, the the very real danger of becoming allquotes so apt, the message so timely. It must encompassing. “Checks-and-balances” must be be the nearest thing to human perfectibility invested with real meaning. and, yes it is uplifting indeed, and aweThe last paragraph says it all. These inspiring, as it was humbling in effect. venomous traits, allowed free play and often In fact, I was presented with a difficulty. encouraged by cheer-leaders, can retard social This article really must be read, it cannot be growth for decades. “We have a duty, a retailed, nor explained away. As Wordsworth responsibility to hold all our leaders once said of fine poetry, the critics “murder to accountable, and to remind them of the dissect” It must be taken whole in its natural consequences of misusing or abusing power. state.

Hopefully, with wise reflection they will And yet this article cries out for attention soberly opt to keep power in check and avoid which begs comment. In the circumstances, “The Vanity of Power”. robbed of room to add to it, I can only repeat Probably, Ferdinand is too naive. A fullit with much quoting for emphasis. fledged tyrannical regime will not be moved to “The Vanity of Power” issues sound advice a change of heart by mere persuasion. The and stern warning against those who are people will have to take matters into their attracted to the various power centres, of own hands, and redress the imbalance of which the political is the supreme. history.

We are reminded that the ancient Greeks Who the cap fits, let them wear it. and Egyptians and, above all, the Bible itself caution us against the transformation Richard Cox Pitches In wrought on ordinary humans by the taste of power which ultimately proves chimerical.

Richard Cox has already established Jules introduces the concept of “The himself as a writer of class. looking glass-self” where one sees oneself writ He can afford to step down a bit and treat large in a Mirror, to make his point. This us to a polemic laced with bitingly sarcastic phenomenon is often compounded by the reference in dealing with the supposed Narcissistic factor, the young man in Greek internal bacchanal in the N.D.P. It goes on to mythology who saw his own reflection in a touch upon the leadership question and some pool of water, fell in love with himself, pretenders who are staging mock battles and refusing to move, finally pining away in creating a hell of a non-existent fight. death.

“A Frankenstein”, “Frank” for short, has If we are gullible enough to embrace such assumed leadership of the squabble. addiction to self-love, we can “create a mirage A key player is, no doubt, Jonathan Peters, that invites us to think that we are who apparently was, or is, a taxi-driver in the indispensable or that we are enthroned U.S.A, presented as wishing to drive an N.D.P indefinitely.” “hearse heading down Cemetery Hill at breakStrangely enough, our own E.T Joshua neck speed”. spotted the problem in his own Those old members of the N.D.P. who unsophisticated way and railed against those volunteered for purgatory, now espy a new life who thought themselves to be “embalmed in in a revived N.D.P as “The long embalmed power”. To circumnavigate the mortality of emerge from their tombs planning to catch man, they create dynasties often supported by Eustace in the dark, and so effect the constitutional props, to ensure that they live transformation of the N.D.P into a political on in power through the family succession. morgue”.

With their plan all worked out, Jules likens their behaviour to “runaway trains” Continued on Page 19.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 9.

Letters

No cause for rejoicing

“DEATH to the Opposition” seems to have taken on new meaning in the wake of the accident near Gordon Yard last week.

There are aspects of Government behaviour that I have some considerable difference with; there are articulations from candidates of the NDP that I might also take issue with. But as a moral, ethical human being, I would not rejoice in the personal injury or death of any of the political contestants, or their supporters. I may hope one wins and the other loses, but physical pain and injury are not a part of that.

So what is with the gleeful clamor of ULP supporters at the injury of NDP supporters on the way to a political rally? Is this indeed what politics have come to in my country? Are riots and assassinations next? Agnostic that I am, I can only hope that God help us all, because we seem incapable, at this stage, of helping ourselves. Lock your door.

Bring in Sir Viv PLEASE PERMIT a space in your publication to express my view about the West Indies Cricket Board, and the team.

Having read about the hiring of Sir Vivian Richards as an ICC match commissioner, let me admit that I particularly liked the decision, but I really wanted Sir Viv to be hired by the West Indies Cricket Board, in order to help the current batsmen on the West

Indies team.

The current batsman are creating some nightmares, and that needs to be addressed. I have actually noticed the rapid decline in their batting, and something should be done in order to eradicate that serious problem.

The hiring of Sir Viv to expose his vast knowledge of batsmanship to the current batsmen, would have been a very

Everton Mercury

Neglecting some real needs PRIME MINISTER Gonsalves, standing on a platform with expresident Bill Clinton to attest his support for a global initiative to address climate change, does nothing to affect unemployment, fishery collapse, businesses closures, or the demise of agriculture in St. Vincent. Elevating one’s self to a higher level of international visibility only focuses attention

more sharply on the ground, to failures here at home.

At least, Hitler made highways, and Mussolini made the trains run on time. What can be said about our El Commandants here?

Potholes; obscene music on the buses (which run on whatever schedule seems most profitable); housing that collapses or is promised but not completed; government

Shame on Mr. Cameron

WELL, well, well, the chickens have come home to roost. Mr. David Cameron, prime Minister of England, has declared his hand on the reparations issue. Mr. Cameron simply wants nothing to do with the issue, and would like us to forget and forgive his country’s role in slavery, because it, England, has done much since to assist with the AJH development of small countries throughout the world. What a man!!

And to think that he has the gall to make his feelings known in a place THAT WAS THE opening of a recent newspaper article. It spoke of the older preachers being called like Jamaica. Brave man!! by the Spirit and the modern preachers who are Mr. Cameron simply supposed to be university professionals. misses the point of the ‘Yahweh Descendant’, the pen name attached to Caribbean demands for the article, spoke of them in that article, and I reparation. The way I congratulate him and any other who shall do so, understand it, is that the and so seek to preach the correct Word.

Caribbean isn’t looking Take the Sabbath, we are all observing the for a windfall; rather it ‘man-made’ Sabbath and not the God-given wants England and the Sabbath. Many of these shepherds do not rest of those European recognize the 144,000 saints. They can’t even countries who were also explain why the New City of Jerusalem is being involved in the African slave trade and slavery placed on earth. in the Caribbean, to On the real Sabbath day, can they answer: In admit to their wrong (i.e. what year did a certain calendar change by order to apologise in clear and of a Pope/Emperor? What was it called? Also, simple language), and to what was the new one called? How many days give more aid for were omitted from it? From which month are development. these days omitted? (Check the New Yet, regardless of International Encyclopedia) what the Europeans do, Too many leaders fail to say also, ‘Come out of they must be made to Babylon lest you partake of her fornication know that no amount of (doom)’. Remember what Christ said, ‘Many shall what they might give, say, have we not cast out devils in your (Christ) will ever compensate for name?’ And He will say. ‘I know you not’. the evil they inflicted on Many pastors today touch you in the forehead African people. But that and give you a push which unbalances you. Then doesn’t mean that they they claim it’s the Spirit. Did any of Christ’s can’t make a start. prophets, disciples, apostles, or even Christ do Shame on Mr. that in their earthly ministries?

Cameron!!!

“Woe to you evil”

Layman

big boost for them, and could only lead to the improvement of West Indies cricket.

Unfortunately, he is not considered, and is completely ignored by the Cricket Board.

West Indies batting crisis is going to remain the same way for a long time.

Charles

facilities that are closed or sold because of admitted inability to maintain, etc.

All hail, our internationally renowned

Comrade! Once the washed-away road in front of my house is repaired, I might even be able to get to town to buy some basic provisions,

that have just gone up in price (although my pay hasn’t).

JOE

Needed - ‘Sleeping Policemen’!!!

THE SOUTH LEEWARD highway is presently under construction, and it is appalling to see the driving style of some motorists. To give an example. Some motorists have been seen overtaking three vehicles at once, travelling at a good pace, in the Big Bush (Rillan) to Chauncey area, while honking their horns as if to indicate they have the right of way. If this is the situation now, what is going to happen when

the South Leeward Highway is completed?

‘Sleeping policemen’ (speed bumps) at ALL pedestrian crossings will make it safer for pedestrians. They should be placed at locations such as the Buccament Bus Shed, Sol Gas Station in Cane Grove, Chauncey Bus Shed, Questelles School area, CWSA, etc. They should also be placed before brows such as the one at Lowmans Hill and Chauncey. These speed bumps will deter

motorists from speeding in areas of high pedestrian and emerging traffic.

As a concerned road user, I do wish that those who are responsible will take these things into consideration, before the work on the South Leeward Highway is completed.

A Concerned Road User

Those ‘guana’ hunters THE LOCAL hunting season is in full gear, and those ‘guana hunters’ are out in their numbers. I wonder if all the ‘guanas’ they capture here stay here, since I understand that ‘guana’ meat now fetches a really good price in Trinidad. So, it might be that we are trafficking some ‘guana’ meat to the country. I ask: Is there a law to regulate this export, if at all it is happening?

What I am also concerned about is the disregard some of these hunters, especially the younger ones, show for the communities in which they come to hunt for ‘guanas’. I speak here of communities within the boundaries of Kingstown, as far as Campden Park on the Leeward and Arnos Vale on the Windward.

They come in relatively large numbers, some with sticks, others with sticks with metal at their tips, and a pack of dogs. Obviously the dogs from the area start barking, and if untied, rush the hunters’ dogs. That brings not only a dog fight, but an exchange of words.

And my other concern is whether or not we have any control over the size of the ‘guanas’ these hunters catch. From what I can see, these hunters have no regard for what size, what sex, or whether the ‘guana’ is in young. There must be a law against capturing young and pregnant ‘guanas’.

The police should have the right to search those bags (flour) bags that are used to carry the ‘guanas’, to make sure that the ‘guanas’ are of a certain size, at least.

If I had my way, we would leave the ‘guanas’ to thrive unmolested in the wild. They are no threat to us. Why should we be a threat to them.

‘Guana’ Lover

* What’s the status of duty free shop tenders at the Argyle International Airport? Has the proposal (conditions of tender) been revised? If so, why? * How much did it cost to bring that Jamaica artiste to perform at the Miss Unity show? * Is that National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism (NMCM) active?

Have any of the articles of the Code of Conduct for election campaigning been infringed? * Are we going to have a ‘thanksgiving’ for elections? * Is the recent attack on Dr. Jules Ferdinand an indication of ULP’s uncertainty in the West St. George constituency?

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10. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Fighting crime - A priority for the NDP The NDP continues to oppose the International Airport Project The Issue IT IS AN ACCEPTED fact in St. Vincent and the Grenadines that the opposition NDP is not interested in an international airport for this country. As demonstrated by their actions in Parliament and otherwise, the NDP sees the construction of this project as a serious obstacle to them regaining power at the next general election.

At the back of their minds, is the statement made by the founder and former leader of their party, Sir James Mitchell, that if they let the ULP construct an international airport, then “crapaud smoke your pipe”. That sums up the approach of the NDP towards this project. They have embarked on a strategy of opposition to the airport, even while they try to fool Vincentians that they will complete the project, IF they are elected to office.

In all this, we must remember the question posed to Arnhim Eustace by Jerry George, in relation to funding the airport project. Eustace replied with the now famous answer “find it where”. But importantly, he also added “that is the end of that”. At that time, it was clear in his mind that the airport could not be constructed by the NDP, and that they would not provide any support for the project.

with the airport, the NDP hated Dr. Gonsalves and the ULP so much, that they could not afford to support it.

Fooling the voters

Having made the decision to oppose the airport project, the NDP found itself in a quandary. Many of their mainstream supporters recognized that the airport was something good for the country, but felt that the ULP should not be the political party to build it. As the 2010 elections approached, Arnhim Eustace realised that the airport was a critical issue, and so days before the elections, he convened a media conference to announce that his party was in talks with an international construction firm, who will complete the airport.

History will show us that the voters were not taken in by this about face, and the NDP lost the election 8-7.

Since then, there has been a constant stream of double talk by the NDP, both on radio, in the newspapers, and in Parliament. Their strategy has been to claim that they support the airport, and that they will complete the project IF they are elected to government. But, at the same time The Famous March they continue spouting their dirty rhetoric about the project.

But let us cast our minds back to They claim that the country is September 27, 2005. You will remember that in August of that year, suffering because of the project; that that Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves Dr. Rudi Mathias is not qualified to outlined for the first time, the plans of lead the construction work; that the the ULP administration to embark on airport will not be completed until a project to construct an international 2018; that the ULP administration is airport at Argyle. He spoke about the hiding the true costs of the project; that the wind studies show that funding, and the work that the planes could not land at Argyle; and “Coalition of the Willing” will that the orientation of the runway is undertake, in regard to the airport.

On September 27th, 2005, Eustace wrong. And the list goes on. led his supporters on a march against Conclusion poverty. That march coincided with the visit of the President of the Meanwhile, the ULP Republic of China on Taiwan, Chen Chui-bian. A few days later, at a rally administration continues its steadfast march to complete the international in the Redemption Sharpes area, he airport project. The government, told his supporters that the march through the International Airport was for a different purpose. He said Development Company, the IADC, then that he wanted to demonstrate has done a fantastic job in managing to the President of Taiwan, that the the project, to its current status. Even NDP was still a party to be reckoned St. Clair Leacock, the member for with. In the end, this was aimed at Central Kingstown, and a leading preventing any announcement about member of the opposition NDP, was monies for the international airport moved to describe the work as a project at Argyle. “miracle”.

So it is clear that, as far back as Now, with the completion in sight, September 2005, Arnhim Eustace and the NDP is left stranded, high and dry the NDP were totally opposed to the in terms of the strategy of opposition airport project. They recognized that it used over the last six years, to try the ULP will get political mileage from the project, which will result in a and stop the project. Vincentians from better performance at any election. So all walks of life, have recognized the importance of the international they decided that they could not support the ULP administration, even airport project to the future development of the country. They if it was recognized that the airport have come to the realization, that it is was a good thing for the country.

So that when Arnhim Eustace was only the ULP, led by Comrade Ralph, who had the foresight, the will and asked to respond to the proposal put forward by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph determination, and the pragmatic foreign policy, to make this project a Gonsalves, in August 2005, and he said that he would consider it, nothing reality.

And that is why they will re-elect could be further from the truth. The the ULP for a fourth term in office, NDP had already taken a position, when the Comrade rings the bell. which they hold up to this day.

Despite all the good things associated Four in a row!!!

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) believes that government’s first responsibility is to protect its citizens by building a strong and safe society. It is obvious that the Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration has failed miserably in this regard.

The ULP promised that they would have been tough on crime and the causes of crime. Today, crime is spiralling out of control, and there is a deafening silence on the part of the government.

Given that backdrop, the NDP has seen it fit to draft a motion on crime.

The following is the motion: WHEREAS over the last few months, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has experienced an unprecedented series of heinous and barbarous crimes contributing further to a veritable climate of fear throughout this otherwise blessed land of ours; AND WHEREAS this trend has affected the lives of all Vincentians resulting in a large number of our potentially productive young people being lost to crime as can be evidenced by the number of youths in our prison population, the spiralling number of “homeless youth” roaming the streets of Kingstown and the creation of neighbourhood watch societies in several communities; AND WHEREAS there is an insufficient number of rural libraries and like facilities, an absence of a girls’ home to complement the Liberty Lodge Boys’ home, an inadequate number of rural counselling centres, and an absence of a scientific approach to dealing with these social problems; AND WHEREAS resources need to be available to address these concerns which continue to impact society negatively and in particular that such assistance be used for increasing community policing, lending assistance to such organs as Crime Stoppers Anonymous, youths organizations, family life and spiritual development programmes, and for expanding local and domestic security; AND WHEREAS this unsatisfactory state of affairs has been acknowledged by the media, civil society and the Human Rights Association as manifested by their editorials, statements of condemnation, calls for marches of peace and a request for a return to more Christian values and the need to be “our brother’s and sister’s keeper”; AND WHEREAS this prevailing climate now sustains an environment of uncertainty, despair and unlawful conduct which threatens the best of our democratic traditions, constitutional privileges and a reasonable sense of decency; AND WHEREAS given the impact of foreign cultural penetration on small developing countries like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the state has an obligation to reintroduce the family unit and specifically the basic role of parents in the upbringing of children, by a sustained and relentless education initiative for the development of spiritual, ethical, moral and human values through social, cultural and economic interventions; AND WHEREAS it is universally accepted that there is an undeniable link between the levels of crime and depressed economic conditions and that the issues of drug trafficking, drug use and drug dependency along with poverty alleviation loom large and require the utmost priority; AND WHEREAS government spends over $13,000.00 per annum to maintain a prisoner in the main correction institution and only $5.00 on a Girl Guide or Boy Scout (at an organizational level as evidence in the

estimates) among youth who comprise the standard bearers of discipline for a kinder, gentler St. Vincent and the Grenadines; AND WHEREAS the potential for development of the criminal instinct is highest in disadvantaged , homeless and orphaned youth, it is imperative that the state complements the existing Liberty Lodge Boys Training School with a counterpart female institution, introduce truancy officers in the several constituencies, towns, villages as appropriate to back up a compulsory education initiative while the Ministry of Gender and Social Affairs is charged with the responsibility for tracking homeless and orphaned children and aiding in their rehabilitation.

Be it Resolved that this Honourable House support a Motion to be called: The Social and Spiritual Redemption Charter giving tangible effect to a national commitment to a just, equitable, confinement, fearless, respectful, proud and God-fearing people by providing resources, giving leadership, employing social and economic strategies to reduce the intolerable violence, providing hope for the Vincentian aspiration, tolerance for divergence, love and respect for the dignity of human life and our commitment to the Supremacy of God in all we say and do in building the kinder, gentler society for the 21st century.

Spiritual and Social Redemption Charter * Initiate household sustainability: Each Vincentian household must have at least one occupant employed over the next five (5) to ten (10) years. * Encourage prayer: A school prayer and pledge to be recited daily, suggested prayer to be crafted by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council in collaboration with other religious organisations. The Ministry of Education will be the executing agency. * Invigorate Sunday school: Support a fund for Sunday/Sabbath teaching. * Strength youth development: work with the National Youth Council on a pro rata contribution of $1000.00 per member group based on an approval basis. The following organizations will be given special recognition, St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Cadet Force, Girls Guide, Boy Scouts, Boys and Girls Brigade, Pathfinders, Red Cross and Inter- School Christian Fellowship and National sporting bodies. * Further stimulate the intellectual capability by promoting the capacity of students through compulsory debating societies in all government and assisted secondary schools. * Effect quantitative improvement in the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force by the implementation of national security professionalization and leadership programmes for the Office Corps. * Grant amnesty for illegal firearms. * Provide a girls’ home similar to the Liberty Lodge for disadvantaged, homeless and orphaned girls. * Develop value laden family life telecasts for television * Establish a sport endowment of $20,000.00 to each of the leading sporting bodies for community based sports programmes.

The NDP is ready to implement its Spiritual and Social Redemption Charter. Vincentians must ensure that they elect the NDP to office at the next general elections; so that we can live peacefully in a kinder and gentler society. WE READY!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 11.

Views

Winning at all costs?

“There is nothing wrong with wanting to win! And there is certainly nothing wrong with playing to win. Losing stinks, especially when you feel like you gave it your all. But winning at the expense of your integrity or honor isn’t winning at all,” — SportsSignup There are many who would agree that winning has “a nice feeling to it”.

It feels good to win. This is true whether we are competing at athletics, academia, or learning memory verses. Winning gives us a sense of accomplishment. We feel good when we have trained or studied hard, and we see our effort culminate in our being recognized for the effort and energy exerted. This feeling appears to be magnified when the competition involves teams and we can celebrate the accomplishment of the group efforts. We can generate “healthy pride” in our accomplishments, and have good cause to rejoice.

There are so many other recent events in a variety of sports that we can comment on to celebrate the victories of those individuals who disciplined themselves and brought their body into subjection as they focused on securing top places in their respective fields. We commend them for the discipline that they have consistently engaged in as they seek to push their bodies beyond the limit to gain their coveted rewards.

However, history records many who have sought to gain the desirable prize and recognition by taking what they thought was the “easy way” through performance enhancement drugs or other illicit acts. The names that readily come to mind are individuals that Lance Edward Armstrong in cycling, Ben Johnson in track and field, Tonya Harding in figure skating, and Deigo Maridona in soccer.

Lance Armstrong was born in Texas, USA. As a child, he was very interested in swimming. He commenced swimming competitively at age 12. His interest broadened to accept the challenges of the triathlon (swimming, running, and cycling) during his late teens. The triathlon introduced him to cycling. He then discovered that this was where his passion resided. He excelled at the sport. He eventually won seven Tour De France cycle races and became an icon for the sport. However, his titles were stripped after it was discovered that he was engaged in doping. This cancer survivor, who had initially denied the doping accusations, had his record seriously tarnished when it was discovered that he “crossed over the line” and delved into the unethical use of performance-enhancing drugs.

He was focused at winning at all costs … and ended up being a big loser.

Ben Johnson was born in Jamaica but migrated to Canada as a teenager.

He excelled as an athlete, and was selected to represent Canada as their favoured 100-meter Olympic sprinter at the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 1984. He won the bronze medal then. Four years later, in 1988, he gained world recognition when he won the 100-meter finals at the Soeul Summer Olympics with a time of 9.79 seconds, lowering his own world record. Ben mesmerised the athletic world with his outstanding performance. However, he was later stripped of the gold medal when it was discovered that he had been using

the performance-enhancing drug Stanozolol. He, too, sought to win at all costs … and ended up losing “big time”.

Tonya Harding rose to fame in 1991 when she became the US figure skating champion. During that competition, Tonya landed a triple axel. She was the second woman to ever perform such an outstanding feat. However, desiring to win at all costs, she and her ex-husband planned to injure her main rival at the 1994 Olympics by hitting Nancy Kerrigan in the knee. The US Olympic Committee sought to bar her from the competition, but later abandoned the pursuit after she threatened to take legal action. However, she was eventually required to engage in community service after paying a relatively large fine. Her image was tarnished and her career careened downhill to nothingness.

International soccer has also had its fair share of incidents of individuals and teams that engaged in cheating in order to win. One of the more famous occurrences revolves around the world-famous Argentinian footballer Deigo Maradona. The event took place during the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and England. Video recordings confirmed that six minutes into the second half of the match, Maradona used his left hand to help the ball into the net. Ali Bin Nasser, who refereed the match, had not observed Maradona’s cheat, and allowed the goal. Argentina ended that match with a 2-1 victory.

They were eventually able to win the 1986 World Cup … thanks to a wrongly allowed goal by an individual who appeared focused on winning at all costs.

Winning by fair means gives players a sense of accomplishment.

They can feel a sense of reward for their hard work. It can motivate participants to seek higher goals. For example, the discipline and hard work required to develop athletic prowess have enabled many to excel at other aspects of their life. However, when “winning at all costs” results in individuals, teams, and officials engaging in immoral and unethical behaviours it ravishes the moral fabric of those concerned, and tarnishes the society from which they would have emerged.

Our leaders in business, government, religion, and society must be forever on guard to identify and punish those individuals who seek to cheat in their quest to achieve status, recognition and power. The end does not always justify the means.

We must encourage our people, young and old, to seek to win by fair means.

This approach will help to keep societies strong. Conversely, encouraging or allowing individuals or teams to win by foul means will incite the society to hurry into evil activities that ravish and dismantle the ethical structure of society. We must send a caution about winning at all costs.

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

Sir Louis, Carlos and Jomo will sweep Leeward for ULP EXACTLY 20 MONTHS ago last Tuesday, I formally declared my intention to become a candidate of the ruling Unity Labour Party for the constituency of South Leeward. The decision to contest came as no surprise to the nation. Ever since I accepted the offer of PM Gonsalves to become a senator in September 2013, it was inevitable that the party would invite me to use my treasure trove of talents in ways that go way and beyond sitting as a senator in the parliament.

If there is any surprise at all, it relates to the choice of constituency.

Opposition parliamentarians and their spokespersons engaged in wild speculations as to where I will lay my ‘electoral bed.’ For me, the decision was easy. Since my return to St Vincent in 2004, following a 21-year stay in the USA, I have lived in Campden Park.

My Father, Wilmot ‘Boney’ Jack, a long time Labour activist before his death in 2004, is from Chauncey.

Because of the fertile seeds planted by his father Lamizah Jack, I have endearing and enduring family ties to the Jack, Harry, Alexander, Wilson, Huggins, Robert, Thomas and Williams families who are well represented among the residents of Campden Park, Questelles, Chauncey, Clare Valley, Number 8 and Vermont.

There is an equally important reason why I selected South Leeward. It is not a political secret. Politicians and keen observers agree that the Unity Labour Party’s best chance to regain political ground lies in North Leeward and South Leeward where it lost by 182 votes and 198 votes.

The strategists in the party know all too well that to regain these two seats, they must offer voters, not just any candidate, but a candidate who possesses a package of skills and talents that will create excitement.

Most of all, the candidate must be able to engender confidence in the villages across the constituency.

The candidate must possess the strength of character, leadership ability, training and experience to articulate clearly the needs and desires of residents. And voters need to have confidence, that in government, their representative will have the force of character and persuasive talents to ensure that the needs of the South Leeward constituency are addressed.

In this regard, I harbour no doubts that my brother and friend Carlos James will create sufficient excitement with his youthful energy and focused and transformative ideas for the development of North Leeward. He will offer a formidable challenge to Patel Mathews that will be more than enough to regain the seat for Labour.

Similarly, in South Leeward, the choice is crystal clear. The name Jomo Thomas is well known across the country. As a social activist and lawyer, I have built a name as an advocate and change agent who has the respect of friends and foes alike for my commitment to principles. I bring instant name recognition to the campaign, and a voice that is clear and articulate on a range of issues and problems that affect and concern the people in South Leeward and across the country. Moreover, the return of Sir Louis Straker to anchor the leeward seats not only puts Central Leeward out of the reach of the NDP, but strengthens the ULP chances in North and South Leeward.

There is more. When PM Gonsalves asked me to become a senator, he knew that I had offered critical support to his party and government over the years.

He knew as well that I could be counted on to defend his government against unfair and backward attacks. He was aware that my support for his party and government went back to times before 2001. He knew that I was a firm supporter for the candidacy of Dougie Slater in South Leeward. Most of all, he knew that I have often times declared that the ULP government has been the most socially progressive and transformative since adult suffrage.

The people must know as well that I left a successful law practice in New York to return home to serve as chief executive of the Social Investment Fund (SIF). SIF, as a government initiative, did impressive work and offered assistance to poor and vulnerable persons across the country. Its work contributed significantly to the rapid reduction in poverty from the 1997 high of 33 percent to the current dirt poor rate (indigence) of 2.7 percent.

The needs of the people in South Leeward are many. Unemployment ranks high. Although the government has done outstanding work in bringing universal secondary and tertiary education to all those who need it, more has to be done to ensure that young people in South Leeward develop the discipline to stay in school and perform well.

Those who do not gain the necessary education to gain employment in the public or private sector, must be offered technical training in carpentry, masonry, plumbing, in computer, refrigeration, air conditioning and electrical skills that will take them off the blocks and into money making, life sustaining work. Creative use must be made of the parks and school grounds as well as learning resource centres to teach youth that there is more to life than cell phones and other electronic gadgets, more to culture than bling and dance hall and the other negative styles picked up from listening to radio and viewing television.

South Leeward has fertile agricultural lands. Land owners must be offered incentives so that more of them may again see the land as a source of livelihood and sustenance for themselves and their families. We need to find ways to marry idle hands with idle lands so as to combat youth unemployment and increase agricultural production.

In South Leeward and across the land, there is an increasing problem related to high blood pressure and diabetes (sugar). Too many of our people are dangerously overweight.

These problems not only bring pain and suffering to these sufferers who sometimes lose sight and limbs. They also cause strokes and heart attacks.

People must be made to feel safe so that they can leave their homes to the streets to exercise in the early morning.

Police can assist with this programme.

These and a whole range of other issues and concerns, like finding our place in the world, occupy my time and attention. I know what the problems are. I know I have been a firm advocate on many of these issues, and I know residents of South Leeward will get committed, capable and competent leadership when I am elected in the next general elections.

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

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12. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

SVG besieged by non-tax paying foreigners SVG GREEN PARTY is deeply concerned that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has been besieged by foreigners. SVG Green party is also concerned that these persons enjoy certain tax concessions on land and goods, and ask: Is this money not paid in as tax being used to purchase land/property in Kingstown?

In Mustique, Canouan and Bequia, these ‘privileged’ foreigners have built white enclaves, keeping out indigenous Vincentians from parts of our own country.

Fellow Vincentians, we have to stand up and fight this policy of aggression by foreigners. If we do not put policies in place to stop this besiegement of our country, we will lose our country to foreigners.

We must do like Cuba and Singapore, and ban the sale of lands in SVG to foreigners. A Green Government will protect and preserve our lands for our children and grandchildren. Our children and grandchildren are the future of this country, it is they who must inherit and own our country.

When foreigners accumulate wealth in our country, they become aggressive and talk to our people as if we are subordinate to them. Our people are being treated as if they are second class citizens in their own country. This attitude and behaviour is totally unacceptable.

In some cases, the properties owned by foreigners are said to extend into the sea, cutting off Vincentians’ access to parts of some beaches. Local fishermen are stopped from fishing in the sea around Mustique.

This foreigners’ lifestyle is a very serious threat to our country and must be dismantled; failing that, the indigenous people of our country will become second class citizens in their own country, very quickly. We must operate within the rule of law, and stop this aggressive takeover, by passing legislation to dismantle this threat to our country, freedom and rights.

The danger of these foreign-owned white enclaves is that they are likely to pollute the political system by supporting one party or the other. There is no legal requirement in SVG for political parties to declare their sources of funding for general elections.

Taiwan makes billions on our tunafishing licence and flying our national flag on Taiwan fishing vessels. Our country has lost billions of dollars in (fish) tax not paid by Taiwan.

Foreigners have used some of the money they should have paid in tax, to set up businesses in SVG. Are these businesses paying their fair share of tax?

Do they have unfair competitive advantage over Vincentian businesses?

Foreigners not paying tax and

customs duties are choking our country’s economy. It is unacceptable, as it perpetuates high poverty, high unemployment and a poor quality of education for our children. If foreigners want to set up business in SVG, they must lease lands, set up joint-venture companies with Vincentians, and pay tax and customs duties, as they do in Cuba and Singapore.

The European Union blacklisted SVG, allegedly because of the tax exemptions given to foreigners. The European Union has said that these alleged tax exemptions must be abolished.

A Green Government will abolish tax exemptions given to foreigners, and

impose a Windfall Tax on foreign-owned companies, that have not paid their fair share of tax and customs duties over the years. All foreigners must pay tax. This is only fair and right, as the SVG Treasury needs that money to cut poverty and unemployment, and create a strong economy and thousands of new jobs.

On election day, vote Green Party.

Put your X next to the telephone to preserve and protect our beloved country for our children and grandchildren, and to make foreigners pay tax.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Start investing today – know the basics!

THE IDEA of investing can seem very confusing at times, especially with the current saturation of information in the media.

It is always the best decision to go to the professionals for advice on building your portfolio.

Here are a few points to keep in mind though: 1. Determine your investment goals and risk profile.

Whether you are saving to build a good nest egg or just for a lavish dream vacation, you need to set goals on how you will attain that income. One of the main principles of investing is the higher the risk, the greater the return. Can you tolerate high risk investments, or would you settle for a lower return for the peace of mind you get from a lower risk investment?

After this is determined, you are better equipped to go ahead and create your portfolio.

2. Diversify Have you ever heard the saying “don’t put all your eggs in one basket”?

This may sound clichéd, but spreading of investments across various asset classes (bonds, stocks, and cash) is very important. All businesses have cycles; when one of your investments may be losing, another may be gaining, thus allowing you to positively balance your portfolio returns. Failing to diversify leaves individuals vulnerable to fluctuations in a particular investment security or sector, and sometimes even the loss of

all invested funds if that security or sector fails.

So, it is important that diversification is part of your investment strategy.

mistakes, you should consider seeking advice from an investment 3. Contribute Regularly broker or advisor before proceeding. Now that you Contributing on a have the basics, start regular basis to your portfolio is a great way to investing today!

All information build wealth. It may be difficult to make frequent contained in this article has been obtained from large lump sum deposits sources that First Citizens therefore, a better Investment Services strategy may be monthly believes to be accurate contributions. Regular contributions are also the and reliable. All opinions and estimates constitute best way to develop the the Author’s judgment as discipline that is key to savings and building your of the date of the article.

However, neither its nest egg in the shortest accuracy and possible time frame. completeness nor the opinions based thereon 4. Reviews are guaranteed. As such, no warranty, expressed or Markets are volatile, implied, as to the resulting in daily rate fluctuations. This creates accuracy, timeliness or completeness of this the need for regular article is given or made by reviews of your portfolio First Citizens Investment and potential asset Services in any form reallocations. Under regular conditions, a semi- whatsoever.

First Citizens annual portfolio review Investment Services may be sufficient; and/or its employees or however, with current market volatility, shorter directors may, where intervals between reviews applicable, make markets and effect transactions, or may be required. have positions in Whatever your agreed securities or companies review period, the mentioned herein. Neither important thing is to the information nor any review and adjust your opinion expressed, shall strategy if and when be construed to be, or necessary. constitute an offer or a Guidance is critical in solicitation to buy or sell. making the right investment decisions and (SUBMITTED BY: FIRST selecting the right assets CITIZENS INVESTMENT to reach your investment SERVICES ON BEHALF OF goals. To avoid confusion FIM 2015.) and common investing

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 13.

News

LIME, NIS back Public Speaking $3,000, an increase from $2,000 which the Mountain View Academy received for THE WINNER of the 2015 LIME last year. /National Insurance Services, The three other finalists get Lions Club South Public a Tablet or a High End Smart Speaking competition will phone and services. complete his/her Tertiary Hull handed over a cheque education with a cushion of in the amount of $15,000 to $1,600 a year.

That amount and more was the organizers, and in doing so said, “We are excited about guaranteed last Tuesday at the event this year,” and the launch of the competition viewed his company’s

by Wayne Hull, LIME’s involvement as serving to Country Manager.

The student placing second “connect communities and gets $1,000 a year to take care transforming lives.”

He identified the Public of tertiary education, and the third place $500. Additionally, Speaking competition as “a key staple in enhancing the the school the winner public speaking skills in St. represents is assured of

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Jameisha Prince, Legal Officer with the NIS, (right) hands over sponsorship cheque to Michael John.

Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Lions Club President Michael John anticipates that the 24 Secondary Schools will take part in this year’s competition, an increase from last year’s 20.

Jameisha Prince, Legal Officer with the NIS, handed over $5,000 as that entity’s input into this year’s Competition.

Six finalists will be chosen after four rounds of competition. The elimination starts Tuesday, October 13, when Zone One speaks on the topic: ‘HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence, so why worry!’.

Schools in that zone are St. Vincent Girls’ High School, Bishop’s College Kingstown, Dr. J. P. Eustace Memorial Secondary, St. Clair Dacon Secondary School, Thomas Saunders Secondary School and Emmanuel High School Mesopotamia.

Zone Two will feature Campden Park Secondary, St. Vincent Grammar School, Bequia Community High School, Bequia Seventh Day Adventist Secondary School, Intermediate High School, and West St. George Secondary.

They will speak on the topic: ‘The Sargasso weed is having an adverse impact on marine life in the Caribbean. Are

Wayne Hull, LIME’s Country Manager (right) presents a cheque to Michael John, Lions Club South President Michael John, signifying LIME’s continuing role as the major sponsor of the Public Speaking Competition. appropriate measures being taken to mitigate the effects?’.

That will be at the Campden Park Secondary School, Wednesday October 14.

Zone Three includes St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua, Mountain View Academy, Adelphi Secondary, North Union, Sandy Bay and George Stephens Senior Secondary schools. They will speak on the topic ‘Whither bananas! Is this the end of the world?’.

Zone four comprises St.

Martin’s Secondary, Central Leeward, Troumaca Ontario, Petit Bordel Secondary, Union Island Secondary and Buccament Secondary. They will speak on the topic: ‘Many Vincentians confuse customer service with servitude’. That round is set for the Barrouallie Learning Resource Centre, October 16.

The final will be November 5 at the Kingstown Methodist Church Hall.

14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

V Co-op League launches month of activities

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 15.

News

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY LAST MONDAY’S LAUNCH of the SVG Co-operative League’s Month of Activities was an occasion that could easily be deemed one that emphasised the relationship between cooperatives.

Performing at the event was Adrian Wright, who placed fifth in a ‘best song’ competition, to mark the Co-operative League’s commemoration of the International Year of Cooperatives, 2011.

He performed his entry, ‘A Co-operative legacy’, and four years later the song still proves riveting, and perhaps is only now revealing its true impact.

And if that was not enough, the programme also featured Kenneth ‘Scakes’ Alleyne , this country’s first Independence calypso monarch, performing a song entitled ‘Standing tall’, which had earned him fourth place in the 2011 Competition, behind joint second placed winners Stacy Wyllie (Co-operatives, build a better world’) and Thaddeus ‘Observer’ Duncan, (‘Join a Cooperative’) and first placed Shaunelle McKenzie (‘Building cooperation’).

Wright and Alleyne shared the spotlight with Credit Union and Co-operatives officials.

Colin John, President of the Board of Directors of the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union, endorsed the activities of the League. He highlighted events in which the KCCU is engaged.

Junior Simmons, President of the Police Cooperative Credit Union Board of Directors, used the occasion to promote a Karaoke and Games Evening slated for the Police Canteen, Thursday October 29.

Cecil Charles, who represented the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Cooperative Credit Union, pledged his institution’s “full commitment to the League.”

Brian Alexander, chairman of the St. Vincent Automotive Cooperative Society, used the platform to encourage persons to join the cooperative society.

Kelvin Pompey, president of the General Employees Cooperative Credit Union, highlighted their Open Day set for October 15, and projected on a ceremony at which bursaries will be awarded to students.

The function peaked with a live link-up by telephone to Dominica’s Aaron Dalrymple, Manager of the Dominica Co-operative Societies League.

Seymonde Mulcaire, Manager of the Police Credit

(L-R) Seymonde Mulcaire, Manager of the Police Credit Union reveals the amount Co-operatives and Credit Unions here have since transferred to flood-stricken Dominica. Kelvin Pompey, President of the League, is also pictured.

Union, unveiled a cheque of EC$30,000 raised by the local Credit Union sector and which has been transferred to Dominica. The money forms part of this country’s contribution to that island, hit by floods following Hurricane Erika, August 27, 2015.

Adrian Wright (left) and Kenneth Alleyne performing at the launch of activities to mark a Month of Activities to be hosted by the SVG Cooperative League Ltd.

16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 17.

News

Reparations more than just a payment

by DAYLE DA SILVA WHILE BRITISH PRIME Minister David Cameron may have dampened the spirits of some in the region hoping for progress as it relates to the issue of reparations, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves maintains that wanting reparations was to deal more with the legacy of underdevelopment.

Gonsalves was in the company of some other CARICOM colleagues who met with Cameron recently, while attending the UN General Assembly in New York.

He told members of the local press on Monday that the issue of reparations was raised by the Jamaican Foreign Minister, Arnold Nicholson Q.C, to which Cameron responded that he was more interested in the future than the past.

In fact, during Cameron’s visit to Jamaica, he reiterated his position as it related to CARICOM’s motion to seek compensation for Britain’s involvement in slavery.

During Cameron’s presentation in the Jamaican Parliament, he acknowledged the impact that slavery had, but remained focused on the future. (See Page 5 for more).

Gonsalves said that during the meeting with Cameron in New York, he was forced to interject and

explain that the significance of reparations was more than just a compensation package based on the value of slaves.

For example, “I told him that the conversation which we want to have is to have a special carve out in the post 2015 development agenda, for resources to be made available in recognition of the legacy of underdevelopment of native genocide and African slavery,” Gonsalves explained, referring to the area north of the Dry River which has been underdeveloped, not by any accident.

He continued: “I said that I have given him an idea to reflect on, because I don’t want the issue to be carried forward to say that because 20 million pounds were given to the slave owners, that you must start with a number like that for the slaves for the descendants, but put that in today’s dollars, but as a matter of practical policy.”

Once the conversation had been shaped in that way, then, he said, he believed that there can be sensible dialogue on both sides.

Back in March 2014, heads of state for 15 nations in the region gathered here to unveil a plan to demand reparations from Europe for the suffering inflicted by the slave trade.

India, SVG strengthening ties

by DAYLE DA SILVA

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and Indian PM Narendra Damodardas Modi during their recent meeting in New York. (Facebook picture)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working diligently on the process to have this country appoint an Honoary Consul to India.

This was confirmed last Monday

by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, during a media briefing.

Dr. Gonsalves told the briefing that he had assured the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Damodardas Modi, of this intent, during a meeting the two men held while both were in the United States for the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

That meeting, according to Dr. Gonsalves, also focussed on issues relating to investment, ICT, air transport, sports and culture.

Dr. Gonsalves said he also took the opportunity to share with Prime Minister Modi the successes and contributions of Vincentians of East Indian descent, and to highlight the contributions made by Indian medical practitioners to the health service here.

The first East Indians were brought to St. Vincent as indentured workers in 1861.

Two now ‘grilling’ with Hairoun

by KENVILLE HORNE TWO PERSONS are today happier after winning in the ‘Grilling this Summer with Hairoun’ promotion, following the final draw to select the winners, on Thursday 1st, at the Save A Lot Supermarket, Upper Bay Street.

The lucky winners were Sion Hill resident Monifa Farrell, an employee of the Save A Lot Supermarket, and Jamal Monifa Farrell (2nd from left) shares her Richards, an employee of moment ‘glad tidings’ with Lamont Medica General Hardware. (left), of the St. Vincent Brewery Ltd. and Farrell was overcome with Petra Plato of Save A Lot supermarket. uncontrollable excitement on learning that she was a winner. person purchasing a 6-Pack of Hairoun “I’m so excited,” she shouted.

Beer to be entered into the final draw.

She said she had a feeling that she Lamont Medica, Trade and Marketing was going to win, and had told her Coordinator at the St. Vincent Brewery colleague so, adding, “I want to say Ltd., said the promotion was just thanks be to God” she proclaimed. another way of the brewery giving back.

Each winner received a Barbeque He expressed thanks to the many Grill, 10 cases of Hairoun Beer and $200 customers who continue to support the worth of meat. company, and hinted at other exciting On collecting herself, Farrell said she promotions planned for the future. will use her winnings to throw a party.

Petra Plato, Marketing and Corporate Richards, who had not yet received Communication Officer at Save A Lot his prizes when THE VINCENTIAN supermarket, said that the company was contacted him, said he could not say happy to partner with the St. Vincent what immediate plans he had.

Brewery in the promotion. The only The promotion, which ran for two criterion in the promotion is that months, allowed each 18 years and over persons must be 18 or older to enter.

October 7 (last Wednesday) is celebrated here as Indian Heritage Day. It commemorates the day in 1882 when some 50 Indians marched from Argyle Estate to Kingstown, to bring their grievances, including conditions of work and instances of breach of contracts, directly to the (colonial) Administration of the day. The action resulted in the arrest and imprisonment of seven of those protestors.

V Police cannot enter unless…

18. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

by DAYLE DA SILVA POLICE CANNOT enter the private residence of an individual except under certain circumstances.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of National Security and former attorney, said this in response to a question by a journalist during a press briefing on Monday.

According to Gonsalves, the police can legally enter a private residence only if: Unless the police have due cause to enter a there is reasonable evidence private residence, they cannot do so without that an offence is about to a warrant. take place; an offence is being committed; or they have a cutlass – a suggestion was made to warrant issued by the court or some involve the police. higher judicial officer such as a Compton further wrote that about Justice of Peace. an hour later, he heard someone “But if you coming in my yard and I calling, and when he looked out, he am on my steps and you are a police - recognized the neighbour and another man, in uniform of plain clothes, I can individual. When he came around to say, ‘What you coming here for,’ (and) the front of his property, he saw a if you don’t tell me, I can tell you don’t man “at the side of the house moving come through my gate,” the prime to the lower part of the property with minister said. a firearm cocked and extended in front “It is a simple issue,” Gonsalves him.” went on, “whether the officer is in When he questioned the individual, uniform or in plain clothes and shows the response was that he was an an I.D, they have no right to be there, officer in plain clothes, and that he and they are trespassing.” had come to shoot the animal.

The response came following an Compton went on to state that he incident as posted on his Facebook asked the man to leave his property, page by local journalist Lyf Compton. to which the individual responded that According to Compton, a neighbour he had come to shoot the dog, and he had ‘accused’ his dog of killing some further contended that he did not pups, and after he (Compton) require a warrant and “could come disapproved of the manner in which onto any property at any time without the individual came to address the a warrant”. issue – the individual came with a

Shooting suspect on the run Up to press time Wednesday, police were seeking information that could lead to the arrest of 31-year-old Denzil ‘Skamy’ Sam of Old Montrose, wanted in connection with several shooting incidents, including that of Dexter Rodney, 25, of Rockies.

Rodney was shot as he emerged from a popular business place on Lower Bay Street, Kingstown, shortly after midday on Thursday, October 1. Up to press time, he was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital nursing bullet wounds, two to the stomach and

one to his left arm.

A release issued by the police stated that Sam is considered to be armed and dangerous.

He is dark brown in complexion, 5 ft, 3 ins in height, and bears a tattoo of a dice on the right side of his neck.

Up to press time, the police were asking that anyone who may have information on Sam’s whereabouts to contact the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Criminal Records Office (CRO) or Major Crime Unit (MCU) at telephone number 4561810 or 457-1211.

Denzil ‘Skamy’ Sam is a person of interest to the police.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 19.

News

Sir James to get his $$$ PRIME MINISTER and Minister of Finance Dr. Ralph Gonsalves did not give any clear indication of when, but he confirmed that efforts are being made to ensure that former prime minister, Sir James Mitchell, is paid monies owed for legal costs.

Those legal costs were incurred by Sir James when he filed an appeal to the Privy Council, 2014, seeking to have the report by Commissioner Justice Ephraim Georges of the Ottley Hall Inquiry, declared null

and void, on the basis of bias.

On November 14, 214, the Privy Council ruled in Sir James’ favour, and ordered that Justice Ephraim Georges, the sole Commissioner, should no longer take part in the inquiry, and that Sir James’ legal costs be paid by the state.

Dr. Gonsalves said at a recent press conference, that payment is now being worked, out and that Sir James will be paid, but did not state how soon.

Sir James Mitchell - still waiting on compensation for his legal costs as ordered by the Privy Council.

‘Burns’ in demand TRADE UNIONIST Joseph ‘Burns’ Bonadie has spoken about his checkered political allegiances.

He did so during last Monday’s episode of BOOM 106.9 OMG morning programme, anchored by Dwight ‘Bing’ Joseph.

Burns, who is still attached to the Commercial and Technical Allied Workers Union (CTAWU), the union base from which he was catapulted to local, regional and international prominence in labour issues, told the OMG listening audience that he was asked by three political parties here to be a member of the parties.

It was while he was working in Barbados — as the General Secretary of the Caribbean Labour Congress (CCL) — that,

according to ‘Burns’, he was summoned by his uncle, the late Prime Minister Milton Cato, to return home to take up a position in parliament as a senator of the St Vincent Labour Party (SVLP).

After the SVLP was defeated in 1984, Bonadie said he took up an appointment in Canada, from where he was invited, by then Prime Minister Sir James, to join the New Democratic Party. He accepted, returned home, was made a government senator and appointed Minister of Health.

Following the defeat of the NDP, 2011, Bonadie said that current prime minister and leader of the victorious Unity Labour Party (ULP), Dr Ralph Gonsalves, offered him a position as Labour Relations Consultant

Joseph ‘Burns’ Bonadie - may just be in a class by himself. consultative with the government. He accepted and continues in that position up to the present.

Joseph ‘Burns’ Bonadie ranks among very few, if not in a class by himself, as one who has served the three political parties that have formed governments of this country, since its attaining of political independence from Britain in 1979.

The “Power” of Jules Ferdinand and Richard Cox newsmongers. The only troubling truth in Cox’s treatise is that Mitchell wishes With savage imagery and jumbie to create a political climate favourable to references, Cox begs not to treat our his staging a come-back. politics like it were “a circus of A concurrent danger is that Cox’s competing clowns” for at the bottom our well-intentioned piece might carry demand is for “economic, not comic within it the germ of a self fulfilling relief”. prophecy. His caged advice to Arnhim to Especially, with an election around consider “grave-digging” could prove the the corner, the Opposition N.D.P. must spark that triggers the N.D.P. collapse. shed its image of “a rag-tag bunch with Arnhim is better advised to “wait out” fratricidal in fighting its central prethe current frenzy, it is guaranteed to occupation”. burst like the bubble it is.

The real problem is that Cox’s scene Then it will be over-time to take a is mostly a figment of his fertile peek at the internal organs of the ruling imagination, largely scripted and U.L.P. which are handled like a closed choreographed by the U.L.P highshop. There is something rotten in the command hiding behind their State of Denmark”.

Continued from Page 8.

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20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Pregnancy gets in the way Dear George,

I WROTE to you about a year ago, and you gave me some great advice. I need your advice again.

My wife is 4 months pregnant, and I thought that now she is pregnant she would cool down with the running around. I had doubts about the baby being mine, but I decided, being the man that I am, to accept that responsibility.

Now that she is pregnant, my wife refuses to make love to me, giving the excuse that the baby would get hurt in the process. I stupidly believed her and gave her, her space.

One day, my work order for the Grenadines was cancelled, so I decided to return home. As I was entering the yard, I met a man, whom I’ve never seen before, leaving. He said hello to me, maybe not knowing who I was. I went into the house, and my wife was having a shower. I accidently knocked something over as I entered the bedroom, and she called out, “Henry, is that you?” Now George, my name is definitely not Henry.

She stepped out of the shower, and when she saw me, she almost fainted.

I had to grab her in order to prevent her hitting the floor. All she managed to say to me was, “I thought you were in the Grenadines.” My reply to her was, “I thought you knew my name.”

George, the choice was simple: either she left or I did. I left. Before leaving, I gave her the assurance I would take care of her and the baby, but made it clear I will have nothing more to do with her.

George, I do not wish to go for any

counselling because you can’t teach and old dog new tricks. I knew before marrying her that she had a history of cheating, but thought I could have changed her. I also thought the pregnancy would help her to settle down, but boy, was I wrong!

Surprise in the mail Dear Surprise in the mail, By your own admission, you knew what you were getting into, so this behaviour should not come as a shock to you.

You will need to get some legal counselling as to how to proceed. It would be good to put a plan in place that was adequately discussed between you and your wife, so she would be clear on what the future holds for all parties involved. If you so wish, you can get a paternity test when the time is right, if you continue to have doubts about the child; but in the meantime you have to be serious about fulfilling the responsibility of being the father as you promised to do.

George

Take action against him Dear George, MY BOSS continually harasses me, and no amount of effort on my part has made him stop; in fact it has gotten worse.

Sometimes he pinches me on my butt, other times he squeezes my breasts, especially when I am in his office. He was bold enough to beg me to sleep with him, promising that if I did, it would translate into more money for me.

I eventually told my husband about it, and he wants to go down there and ‘deal with him’, but I do not want him to get into trouble with the law.

The truth is my husband makes more than enough money to take care of us, but at the same time, I want this job. Working makes me feel useful, and gives me a sense of independence and fulfilment.

I am at a loss as to what to do. What is the best course of action for me at this stage, George?

Victim Dear Victim, Sexual harassment should never be tolerated in the workplace or anywhere

else for that matter. It is against the law to sexually harass anyone. You have that recourse of getting the police involved.

I understand your reasoning about you wanting to be out of the house and working, but at the same time, people like your boss should not be allowed to do what he is doing to women; making them feel uncomfortable and worthless in the workplace.

You should be allowed to work wherever you wish to work without having to worry about predators such as your boss. Let the law deal with this one, and advise your husband accordingly. He should be relieved to know that something is being done, and that it was you who decided to do something about it.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You may find yourself in an opportune position if you are willing to take a bit of a risk. Changes could be overwhelming.

A friendship might suffer if money becomes an issue. You will be emotional about your personal life.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Residential moves look hectic and sudden changes in your life are likely.

Exercise discipline when it comes to controlling bad habits. Don't allow personal problems to conflict with professional duties. You must get out and mingle.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Accomplishment is yours if you direct yourself accordingly. Set a limit on the amount you're willing to spend, and be sure to stick to it. Discuss your objectives with peers or lovers. You will have to control the way you feel.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your self-esteem will come back if you take part in organizational functions that allow you to be in the lime light. Don't let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance. Get involved in competitive sports. Friends will appreciate your attention and playful nature. You will attract new love interests.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You may feel that someone at work is holding you back. Get involved in groups that will help you meet established individuals. Travel will be to your advantage; however, it might be expensive. If you can, try to work out of your home this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Put your energy into your work or moneymaking ventures rather than into your emotional life this week.

Communications with loved ones may be strained. You can make personal changes that will enhance your appearance and bring about greater social activity. Be sure to organize

events that will keep the children busy.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will be misinterpreted if you get involved in other people's problems. You may have some difficulties with someone you live with. You can make money if you put your savings into conservative investments. Seminars will provide you with knowledge and amusement.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Go after your goals. Relax I and enjoy what you've accomplished when you're finished. Financial limitations are likely if you take risks. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Try to bend but by no means should you give in completely. Problems with skin, bones, or teeth may mess up your schedule. Your passionate nature may make you jealous if your mate has been too busy to take care of your needs.

Deception regarding joint finances or investments will cause upsets between family members.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Adventure will result in added knowledge. Invite friends in for a visit.

Exercise your talents and present your ideas to groups you think you can contribute to. You may be confused emotionally.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Your need to use emotional blackmail will only cause more conflict. Don't get involved in other people's private doings. Take advantage of moneymaking ventures. Don't start any arguments unless you're prepared to accept irrevocable results.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Your energetic nature and ability to initiate projects will add to your popularity. Older relatives may be a burden. You should consider getting your whole family involved in a project at home. You may find that someone at work hasn't been trustworthy.

ACROSS 1. Press down 5. Brit’s buggy 9. Eisenhower’s party (abbr.)

12. Bear’s home 13. C&W singer McEntire 14. Poet’s “before” 15. Counter appliance (2 wds.)

17. Large tank 18. Incompetent 19. Baggy 21. Pennants 23. Fisher of “Mannix” 24. Muffler mangler 25. English trolley 28. Quiet period 31. __ de toilette 32. Lucifer 34. Bring __ close (2 wds.)

35. Coin of Italy 37. Sound quality 38. “__ the Walrus” (2 wds.)

39. Meadow moms

41. Witch 43. Goaded 45. Canadian territory 47. New (prefix) 48. Tumblers, goblets, etc.

53. Bronte’s “Jane __” 54. Greek god of love 55. Out of tune 56. Post 57. Clairol products DOWN

10. Historical ages 1.What a nurse 11. Sampras or gives (abbr.)

Rose 2. Motorists’ 16. Annoying gp. ones 3. Game with 20. Driller’s putters quest (2 wds.)

21. Release 4. Fork tine 22. Waikiki 5. Ready a picnic patient 23. Federal 6. Apartment agent charge (hyph.)

7. Actor 26. Long-tailed Vigoda rodents 8. Actress 27. From __Z Gibbs of (2 wds.)

“The 29. Bank transJeffersons” action 9. Radical 30. Uncool,

slangily 33. Tie sites 36. Fall into debt 40. Borders 42. Used oars 43. Destroy 44. Great Barrier __

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 21.

45. Crocheter’s purchase 46. Preowned 49. Drain unclogger 50. Shad product 51. Snaky shape

V

22. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Vincentian student meets Prez Obama

York.

Asante’s mother, Georgetown native Silvina ‘Gen’ CrichtonAlexander, is employed by Selfridge and his wife. Asante’s father, Fitzlyn A 12-YEAR-OLD VINCENTIAN student ‘Omari’ Alexander, is also who lives with his parents in Brooklyn, Vincentian.

New York, has had the rare privilege The Alexanders have another and opportunity of meeting United child, Fayola, 20, a student at States President Barack Obama, after Brooklyn’s predominantly Black the child had written the president four Medgar Evers College. years ago congratulating him on his “I thought he was just going to election. shake my hand and leave,” said Asante Alexander, 12, a Grade 7 Asante about meeting Obama. “He student at Meyer Levin Intermediate spent some time with me, although President Obama greets young Asante School 233 in Brooklyn, told THE he had all the leaders around the Alexander with a manly handshake.

VINCENTIAN that meeting the most world waiting on him. powerful leader in the world and the “What a wonderful feeling… that first US Black President was an would definitely stay with me forever!” Obama continued. “Thank you, again, for your message. I wish you all the experience beyond his expectations. beamed Asante with excitement. best.”

“Meeting President Obama is a “President Obama is a great great experience,” said Asante, who, inspiration for me.”

The meeting through the United States Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Peter A. The letter While meeting with Selfridge in Selfridge, and his wife Panita, was New York, Obama recalled Asante’s able to meet Obama at his hotel room Asante — a soccer (football) Asante was more than overjoyed when in midtown Manhattan, on Sept. 29, letter and invited him to his hotel. enthusiast, who represented Central President Obama autographed a Asante said he was in disbelief on the margins of the 70th Session of Brooklyn Soccer Club in a tournament magazine about himself, which the when his dad woke him up at 5:00 the just-concluded United Nations in Dubai in April, and has earned youngster had brought along to the a.m. on Sept. 29 and told him that he General Assembly Debate in New several Black belt degrees in meeting. was going to meet with the President.

Taekwondo — had written Obama in “I thought he was joking,” Asante September 2011, when he was a 7said.

“I thought he was just waking me year-old student at Langston Hughes up for school.

Public School 233 in Brooklyn.

“I went to my mom’s room, and I At that time, Asante congratulated asked my mom if it was true that I Obama on becoming the nation’s first was going to meet President Obama,” Black President and hoped to meet he said. “She said ‘yes’. We had to be him in Brooklyn. there for 8:00 a.m.

“I have read a lot of books about As a collector of books about you, and have educated myself to the Obama, Asante said he took a fullest,” Asante wrote. “Many of the magazine and a book about the books I read made me want to help President with him. people.

When they arrived at the hotel, “I like the way in which your mom Asante said he got “a little nervous” taught you as a child to become a because he was “surrounded by many great person,” he added. “I know you security guards [Secret Service fulfilled Martin Luther King’s dream by becoming the first Black President Officers] and police officers.”

He said his mom approached the [of the United States] and bringing officers with the letter, “and we got everyone together. in.”

“So I will like you to fulfill my While in the waiting area, Asante dream and come to Brooklyn, so that I said he “stood up all that time” can see you in person, and tell you because he “did not want the President what a great man you are,” Asante continued. to come in the room and see me In responding, Obama thanked sitting.

Asante in a letter dated Dec. 13, 2011.

“When I met the President, I felt “I am continually inspired by the joyful, shocked, blessed, happy and, at enthusiasm and bright ideas of young the same time, nervous,” Asante said.

Americans, and I appreciate your He said President Obama shook his taking the time to share your thoughts hand, and told him. What a great man with me,” the President wrote. “One of he is. the things I can do as President is to “He read my letter again and said to make sure your tomorrow is as bright me ‘dream big,’” Asante said. “And I as it can be. said, ‘I would, thank you’. Then, I gave “Young people like you are him my magazine, and he autographed America’s future, and whether we fall them and gave them back.” behind or race ahead as a Nation will Asante said the most memorable depend largely on your generation,” he moment was “when he touched my added. “As you grow and learn, hair and said, ‘You look like Kid ‘n remember that our country is counting Play, ’” an American hip-hop act of the on you to be a dedicated and hard1980s and early 1990s. working student.

“My body ran cold; it was amazing,” “I encourage you to set your sights said Asante about his extraordinary high, aim for excellence in all that you meeting with the President of the do, and try each day to improve the United States. lives of others in your community,”

by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 23.

Marlon James used a stigma as motivator MARLON ‘TUSTY’ JAMES, who excelled as professional football, admitted that it was the burden of stigmatisation spurred him to his career.

Born in Hamilton, Bequia, in 1976, James said he grew up on a diet of hearing that nothing good could come from his community. He was determined to dispel that ‘myth’.

“I came up around some hard individuals, stubborn .... Hamilton is labelled as the worst place in Bequia. … But I have known individuals, and seen the capabilities of individuals, and I have been around some Rastas who have played a big part in my development...

I had the belief though, that I can be different”, James said, as he spoke of making the distinction between the positives and the negatives. .

“You may see them (Rastas) walk around with a spliff in their mouths, but being around them and the consciousness and positivity they gave to me, was very important as a youngster growing up,”

James confessed.

He said with pride that despite being part of the community and its active life, “I never put a cigarette nor a weed to my mouth, and my first taste of alcohol was at the age of 25, and never attended Easter and Old Years functions, which are big things here on Bequia.”

James admitted that they (Rastas) were helpful to him as he grew up without a father in his life and became, eventually, the most recognised footballer and sportsperson to come out of Bequia.

Football came late In his early years, James showed no signs of prowess as a footballer.

“I started secondary school late, I was 14 going on 15, and the first time I tried to make the Bequia Anglican High School team in 1990, I was told

by Wayne Peters, coach at that time, that I would never make it as a footballer,” James recalled.

That ‘turn down’,

triggered his determination, and he used the beach, the playing field and the roads of Bequia to build his strength. “ My football abilities kicked in within three months through physical training ... I couldn’t play football ... At age 10 , 11, 12, you could not have said that Marlon James was a footballer; but between 15 and 17 , I was a different player,” James stated.

From nothing to something James’ meteoric rise in the sport began with him gaining selection to the senior national team in 1995.

He credits his association with his first club, Youth Olympians of Bequia, as setting him on that path, and other local clubs — Combined Stars and Hope International — as adding the ‘remaining touches’ which propelled him further.

After a brief outing in the semi-pro league in Trinidad and Tobago,

Marlon ‘Tusty’ James, sharing his knowledge and experience with young footballers from his community.

James began his international pro career in Ireland with Bray Wanderers, in 2000. He transferred to Tirense in the Portuguese Second Division in 2001, and later played for Sabah FC and MK Land in Malaysia, before another Malaysia roster signing with Kedah.

In 2008, with a ban enforced on foreign players, he left the Malaysian league.

He sought renewal of his career in the United Soccer League of North America in 2008, representing Vancouver White Caps, but was released two years later.

James returned to Malaysia in 2012, joining the Malaysian Armed Forces in 2012, where he ended his career in 2014.

His stints in Malaysia saw him collecting several awards for being the top goal scorer and best foreign player, among others.

Achievements and giving back

Bascombe helps Toppers to down Older Boys Miles Bascombe stroked a matchwinning 80 for Toppers.

WEST INDIES capped Miles Bascombe hit a typical belligerent 80 to push Ezzie Wood Toppers to a comfortable 65-run win over Computec Older Boys, in the National Lotteries Authority TBPO Softball 20/20 cricket tournament, on the weekend.

Bascombe’s half century led Toppers to 131 for 3 in 17 overs, to which Computec replied with 66 for 9 in 17 overs. Bowling for Toppers, Asman Forbes took 2 for 3, and Sheldon Nanton 2 for 14.

In another weekend match, Nice Radio Clinchers beat Shot Callers by 33 runs.

Clinchers made 124 for 6 in 15 overs, with Desron Spring getting 54 and Ronelle Stapleton 22.

Mandela King amd Lee Bullock had 2 wickets each for Shot Calklers who replied with 91 all out in 13 overs, having failed to negotiate Rajvie Roberts who took 4 for 33.

George Valley Saints defeated Smart Strikers by 4 wickets when they registered 107 for 6 in 11 overs in reply to Smart Strikers’104 for 9 in 17 overs. Andre Tucker, 21, led for Strikers, with Danroy Hazell doing likewise for Valley Saints with 64. Valley Saints’ Prun Thompson was the

match’s best bowler with 2 for 7.

Mac Little Saints beat Stingers by 8 runs after posting a less than challenging 92 for 5 in 15 overs, in which Jason Jackson made 39 not out.

Stingers failed to live up to their name and were bowled out for 84 in 13.5 Stingers, Calvert Simon getting 21 after returning bowling figures of took 2 for 20. Mikeal Toussaint, Omari John and Kevy Cumberbatch each took 3 wickets for Little saints.

Asquith Mapp, 64 and Glenroy Dasent, 21, ensured that BOSVG All Stars got to 143 in 19.3

overs, a total that proved too much for ASCO who were decimated for 77.

Bowling for All Stars, Kelly Harry took 4 for 14 to inflict the major blow on ASCO. Matches continue this weekend at the Daphne Playing Field.

James admits that his professional career, what he earned as a player and the bonus payments that accrued, has afforded him the opportunity to make some personal achievements, including providing a home for his family.

And he has not forgotten his roots; he

assists children attending his former preschool in his home community of Hamilton, just one of the ways he gives back to the community area which gave him a positive upbringing.

“Football and Hamilton have been good to me”, James concluded. (Guest writer)

Saints: New Super40 Champions GUARDIAN GENERAL Saints are the 2015 Super 40 Cricket Champions 2015.

They laid claim to the title when they defeated LIME Radcliffe by 64 runs in the final, played at the Park Hill Playing Field, last Sunday.

Led by a top score of 71 by Windward Islands batsman Sunil Ambris, Saints posted 171. Ambris, batting at number three, shared in a 3rd wicket partnership of 94 runs with national senior team partner Desron Maloney, who Sunil Ambris hit half was one of Saints’ drafted centuries in both the players. Maloney played a semis and final, to be patient and intelligent 42. the major contributor In reply to Guardian with the bat in Saints’ General Saints’ 171, LIME claim of the Super 40 Radcliffe showed intent, led title. by their captain Lindon James, who opened the batting with Gidron Pope.

However, apart from James, none of the batsmen contributed anything meaningful, and Radcliffe eventualy folded for a disappointing 107.

Am elated Romel Currency, captain of Saints’, said after the game, that the victory was dedicated to the team’s longstanding manager, Foster Huggins, The final was set up from semi-finals played the previous day, in which Guardian General Saints defeated Desron Maloney Ruddy’s Electrical Unique also played an Warriors, and LIME Radcliffe important innings dispensed with defending for Saints in the champions Team Rivals.

final.

I.B.A.ALLEN I.B.A.ALLEN

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24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Inspection party: (from left): Kelvin Franklyn of St. Vincent Brewey, Sylvorn Harry (SVGNA), Area Rep Arnhim Eustace and Sylvia Clarke of Sion Hill Netball Committee.

Sion Hill netball opens

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT THE 22ND EDITION of the Sion Hill Netball Tournament is into week one, with 12 teams contesting the event.

The tournament opened last weekend at the Sion Hill Hardcourt, under the sponsorship of the St. Vincent Brewery through its Vita Malt brand.

The opening ceremony saw the organising committee recognising one of the community’s stalwarts, Cloretha Sealey.

Sealey, who was a member of the organising committee, captained the Sion Hill Government School team and also represented the Sion Hill Club in the national championships.

She was presented with a plaque by chairperson of the Sion Hill Netball Committee, Sylvia Clarke.

The Ceremony heard addresses from Kelvin Franklyn of the St. Vincent Brewery, MP for the area, Arnhim Eustace and vice-president of the SVG Netball Association, Sylvorn Harry.

Franklyn applauded the Committee for its longevity, and pledged his company’s support for the future.

Eustace, for yet another year, made discipline his theme as he offered prize monies totalling EC$750.00 ES500.00 to the most disciplined team and EC$250.00 to the most disciplined player.

“I set a lot of store by discipline, and when you look at the breakdown in our society, we cannot just give up and shrug our shoulders; we must find ways to continue to encourage people, especially the young people, to exercise that very important aspect of discipline,” he said.

Cloretha Sealey (left) receives her plaque of appreciation from Sylvia Clarke, chairperson of the Sion Hill Netball Committee.

Eustace then took the time out to scold teams who turned up with less that the number of players that comprises a team, and said that was unforgiveable.

“This tournament is being held for 22 years, and I as representative for this constituency for the last seventeen years, have been attending this opening and the closing, and I have never seen all the teams turn out with their full complement of players….this must not happen next year,” he said in a very serious tone of voice.

The East Kingstown MP also commended the organising committee for going for over two decades, while pointing out that not many organisations survived that long.

Harry, in addressing the teams, pointed to the value of team work, and the benefits which can be derived from the playing of netball.

“Via netball, we are taught the importance of working together to accomplish goals,” she pointed out.

“As a team sport, the popular cliché, TEAM — Together Everyone Achieves More - becomes more than a thought.

It must become a reality, a definite necessary ingredient, for any team to succeed,” she explained.

“Netball helps us to learn to become more responsible, more committed to training and hard work, and more trusting of each other. It aids with the alleviation of all barriers. Hence, on the netball court, our religious, social and even political differences cease to exist”.

She went on to emphasise the need for netballers to be disciplined both on and off the court of play, and to appreciate the role and contribution of the sponsors.

“Your sponsors have sacrificed amidst these hard economic times, to ensure your participation in this year’s tournament; represent them with pride and gratefulness,” she stated.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 25.

Sports

That Ranking thing ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES was ranked 122 in the latest FIFA rankings.

In the last nine months, we have drawn with Barbados twice and lost 3:1, while having beaten Grenada, St. Lucia and Dominica enroute to the Windward Islands championship.

We passed through the Second Round with away goals making the difference in shoot out in Guyana.

Vincy Heat, as the national football squad is dubbed, produced the desired results in Aruba, and ensured entry into the Fourth Round.

Whatever the apprehensions about our competency at this stage, we must not give the indication that we are going through the motions.

The road is long. Obstacles are many. The stakes are high. Demands are acute, and the odds are overwhelming.

People will get lost in the excitement and may tend to lose track of the mission. We will be plunged into the deep end time after time. We will have to find the current as swiftly as can be, and swim or go with it, without having time to learn about the conditions.

The addition of Michael ‘Lord Have Mercy’ Ollivierre to the training staff will redound to the squad’s benefit. ‘Mercy’ is an experienced athletics coach. He has proven his merit, and his wisdom will be valuable to the party.

Our players must be praised for their initiative.

They could not have reached thus far without discipline. They have shown some resilience that has enabled them to rebound from seemingly depressing situations to safety.

They must continue that path and ensure longer stamina to handle the strain on the body through greater physical and mental exertion on and off the field.

This calls for a national endeavour. Persons with expertise who are committed to the national cause must make themselves available to the Federation.

Efforts have to be stepped up to incorporate all our resources to the team’s and nation’s advantage.

The newest FIFA Rankings may alarm some persons.

Aruba, whom we disposed of, is ranked 115. St. Kitts/Nevis 112, and Canada 104.

At position 95 is Nicaragua who jumped 44 places.

El Salvador 94, Honduras 89, continue the order in Concacaf. Antigua and Barbuda is 83rd, one spot below Guatemala who beat them to the Group C stage.

Haiti at 77 maintains consistency. It is an encouraging factor that the country, stigmatised and traumatised by man-made and natural torrents, raises its flag and other people’s eyebrows in footballing circles.

Panama stands at 65, a commendable accomplishment for a nation outside the traditional giants.

Trinidad and Tobago are 59, which typifies the gap between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its Group C contenders.

Jamaica at 57 is the highest ranked English speaking Caribbean nation.

Costa Rica, 42, USA 29, and Mexico 27 complete the zone.

The distance between teams goes out through the window when the referee blows the whistle to start the game. There are off field manoeuvrings such as what measures countries resort to in order to assume some advantage in their favour.

One heard of instances where the Jamaican team was searched by immigration officials accompanied by dogs, when they arrived at the foreign destinations.

Vincy Heat will have to get used to such tactics.

The conditions at Missouri will be a factor. We must cope with the weather and a hectic schedule to be home for the Guatemala match November 17.

We have to adapt, assert ourselves and take matters into our own hands.

By the time the journey reaches a juncture in Guatemala September 6, 2016, we will see how the Hexagonal shapes.

Our mission is to find one stone to take care of Goliath. After that, the lights will beam, the cameras rolling and there will be action.

VINLEC North Leeward T/20 into semis Sunday October 18 before the William ‘Buddy final that Sunday afternoon.

Willie’ Edwards TENSIONS OVERFLOWED from beyond the boundary in Carlos James Rose Bank struck an last Saturday’s encounter between Carlos James salvaged some pride and unbeaten 124 for Troumaca Starlight and Carlos James Peto Stars, in the created an upset when they Carlos Jam,es 2015 VINLEC North Leeward T/20 Cricket trounced Circumstance in a Rose Bank to Championship. preliminary match last ensure his team Reports are that an irate female spectator took to Saturday. dispensed with the throwing stones and bottles at the Starlight team, Rose Bank, powered by more favoured causing at least one interruption in play.

William ‘Buddy Willie’ Circumstance.

On the actual field of play, Troumaca Starlight Edwards 124 and Shelford advanced to the semi-finals of the Championship, Caesar 55, both unbeaten, with a two-run win over Peto Stars. racked up 210 for 3 from 15 overs. That pair put on Starlight made 110 from 19.1 overs, Kentis John an unbroken 180 run fourth wicket partnership, leading the scoring with 30. Ronique Laborde 3 for after Rose Bank were 30 for 3. Fitzmore Edwards 16 and Vangel Small 3 for 20 were the leading 2 for 39 was the chief wicket taker for wicket takers for Peto Stars.

Circumstance.

Laborde hit 34 when his team batted, but Peto Hank Hall, 43, put up some fight, but Stars fell for 108 from 16.1 overs. Kentis John 3 for Circumstance were restricted to 123 for 6 from 15 13 and Dorson Cottle 2 for 7 picked up wickets for overs. Stinson Ince 3 for 21 and Shaun Lavia 2 for the visitors.

21 were among the wickets for Rose Bank.

Starlight will be in semi-final action this Sunday Saturday’s other game also featured some afternoon. heroics. Rangers team, perhaps buoyed by the Three other teams bid for semi-final spots this donation of new gears handed over by Harvey Caine Saturday, October 10. on his father Osborne Allen’s behalf, thrashed Robertson Surveying Future Legends and Rudy’s Electrical by eight wickets. Rudy’s were Sharpes United clash in the morning fixture, with dismissed for 105 from 11.2 overs. Chrisroy John 37 Coulls Hill Rangers and North Stars scheduled for led the scoring for Rudy’s. Peter Morris 4 for 15 was another semi-final berth in the afternoon. the destroyer of Rudy’s batting.

Sunday morning’s match will see defending Morris, a member of the local Coast Guard, champions Police against Circumstance, in the last blazed a ten-ball 50 to dismiss any thoughts of a quarterfinal match.

Rudy’s Electrical victory. He fell for 53 when the The winner of the Rangers/North Stars game score was 70. His opening partner was dismissed plays Starlight in Sunday afternoon’s first semione run earlier for 0. Kishore Shallow 20 and final. The other semi-final match will be Saturday Marcus McCoy 11 saw their team to their October 17. A third place playoff is carded for quarterfinal spot.

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Masters cricket rolling on THERE WERE VICTORIES for St. Vincent Cooperative Bank P’tani, Cato’s Heavy Equipment Glamorgan, Belfongo, RYB Challengers and RSVG Police, in last weekend’s round of matches in the SVG Masters T/20 Cricket Competition.

P’tani Masters did away with their neighbours, Kirk DaSilva’s La Croix Masters, by 3 wickets. Patrick Thomas, 60 not out, led La Croix to 126 for 4 off 20 overs, to which P’tani Masters replied with127 for 7 off 18.4 overs, Alfred McKenzie leading with 24.

Glamorgan Masters had the better of Marriaqua Masters, downing them by a comfortable 87 runs.

McNeil Morgan, 53, James George, 30,

pushed Glamorgan to 197 for 5 off 20 overs, the highest weekend team total. Marriaqua Masters mustered 110 for 6 off 20 overs in reply, Raymond Maingot hitting 43. McNeil Morgan gave a good all round performance taking 2 for 9.

Pastures Masters failed to get anywhere near Belfongo’s total of 173 for 5 off 20 overs, when they replied with 118 all out in 16 overs.

Junior Bacchus, 43, Ted Roberts, 34, and Tommy King, 23, buttressed Belfongo’s total. Roberts and King returned to take 2 wickets each for the victors.

RYB Challengers Masters put a last weekend defeat behind them to claim victory over a seemingly hapless Rudy’s Electrical Barrouallie Masters.

RYB Challengers posted 130 for 8 off 20 overs, thanks to contributions of 36 from Noel Samuel and 21 from Tyrone Walker.

Ian Allen, 3 for 12, may have thought he had set up victory for Rudy’s, and even as he turned run-getter with 26, his effort was undone by the other batsmen, as his team laboured to 104 for 7 in 20 overs.

North Leeward Masters’ 108 for 7 in 20

overs was simply not enough to test the RSVG Police Masters, who cruised to 108 for 3 off 18 overs. Parnel Browne hit 51 not out and Jeffery Laborde 36 for the lawmen, who saw Frankie Joseph take 3 North Leeward wickets for 22 to help set up the victory.

Matches continue this weekend.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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26. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015. 27.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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The wall in October 2014.

The wall in October 2015.

STILL SEEKING HELP AFTER TWO YEARS

by DAYLE DA SILVA

AMIDST the purported heightened road repair and refurbishment activity, one resident remains at the mercy of road authorities here.

It has been two years since Belmont resident Gemma King said that the perimeter wall of her property was constantly being damaged by vehicles, and all her efforts to take action to have the situation corrected, have proven futile.

King’s residence sits at the 90 degree turn at the Belmont bypass road, and has been damaged by vehicles travelling to Kingstown.

THE VINCENTIAN first highlighted King’s plight just Gemma King has knocked on every conceivable door that relates to road works and works generally, but has not had one opened in her favour.

over a year ago, when she complained about the adverse effect of the heavy flow of traffic in front of her residence.

The authorities diverted the traffic through the Belmont Village road after a section of the Belmont main road broke away back in September 2013.

But since the diversion, residents, like King, have complained not just about the nuisances associated with heavy, constant vehicular traffic, but that vehicles – mainly heavy trucks — making impact with the perimeter wall of her residence while they are reversing.

Now, one year later, King said that the condition of her wall has worsened, and she is yet to receive any sort of redress from the relevant authorities.

She said that she has tried just about everything: “I saw

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

Julian Francis, and I said to him, ‘I am having problems with my wall, there isn’t a weekend when a vehicle is not hitting the wall’”.

Senator Francis, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Transport and Works, told her that he will send someone to have a look at the situation, but according to King, no one has come.

King said that she sent a letter and an attached estimate cost for the repairs, to her Parliamentary Representative, Clayton Burgin, and to the candidate for the constituency in the upcoming General Elections; Camillo Gonsalves, in July this year.

She admits to be at a loss as far as who is responsible, since she has gone to BRAGSA, where they informed her that they were

not responsible, as did employees at the Ministry of Transport and Works.

The woman further complained that whenever she is at home and a vehicle hits her wall, she summons the police, and the situation is the same every time.

A statement is taken from the driver of the vehicle, and she is instructed to provide an estimate of the damage.

“I will take it, and that is like a pappy show,” she said.

Her most recent step to address her predicament was to ask close friends and relatives to offer their skills and request materials from the authorities.

“Not even that I could get,” she told THE VINCENTIAN. King said that she feels that she is being taken advantage of, and that no one is listening to her case.

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