Why Did Cops Kill Arnold Joseph?

SATURDAY, JULY 06, 2019

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Photo by: Joshua St Aimee

Why Did Cops Kill Arnold Joseph?

The 17-year-old Entrepot School star student Arnold Joseph was laid to rest on June 22, 2019 following a touching ceremony at the Church of the Holy Family in Jacmel. Pictured, his little sister, Vanya Emmanuel.

(See centre pages.)

Issue 28 | 06

July, 2019

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BREADNUT BOTTOM AND SOURSOP TURN N

early every adult of my father’s generation was committed to doing his “endeavour best” and almost all the primary school teachers of my generation, as well as the English teachers in the secondary schools, used their best endeavours to stop us from using the phrase “endeavour best”. The use of “endeavour best” by any student in his class, or by anyone at all, was guaranteed to make our headmaster, Mr Forde, more short-tempered than he already was. Mr Forde fretted, fumed, shouted and screamed, all the time endeavouring to point out to the miscreant the error of his ways.

Mr Forde left us without any real success in his endeavour. I still hear people swear on all kinds of graves and parental appendages that they tried their “endeavour best”.

I was on my way to do the feature address at a graduation ceremony in a small Trinidad town named Cunupia, Spanish for “canopy” or sheltered covering, which I thought would be a good word to describe

what education should be.

However, while endeavouring not to be late and also endeavouring not to get lost, I had to pass through a place named Endeavour. The theme of the ceremony was “Let Your Light Shine” and I decided, based on the geography of the region, to turn my speech into a simple road map because I had to pass close to the village of “Perseverance” (which is something you hope the kids will develop) that is near the town of Enterprise (something the kids should show from a very early age). I also wanted them to be like Captain Kirk’s Starship in Star Trek and fashion their lives like the Enterprise— exploring strange new worlds, seeking out new life and new civilizations, and boldly going where no one has gone before.

What made my road map to the future even more relevant is that I had earlier passed the village of Esperanza, Spanish for “hope” which springs eternal in the human breast, except when he is batting or wicket-keeping in the World Cup. And not too far away was the town of Felicity,

which means “happiness”.

Within that small compass, they had it all. In fact, when I worked for the sugar and rum company, Caroni Ltd, we developed a rum named Felicite, ostensibly the name of the sugar estate on which it was supposedly developed, but mainly because we hoped it would bring happiness to its users and relief to the company’s much depleted coffers.

Place names tend to be a bit more conventional, but street names, mainly because they come from the people who live there, can be “different”.

Even if they are the names of famous people, like those in Trinidad named “Buller” after a war hero and “Wooding” after a famous family which included a Chief Justice, the local interpretation can be embarrassing. In Trinidad, every year, the first session of the street mas’ or masquerade is the “Old Mas” or Jour Ouvert (pronounced Jew-Vay). In a preCarnival competition featuring this category, a band depicting “The Streets of Port-Of-Spain” was disqualified because of

TENDER NOTICE Government of Saint Lucia DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS AND NATIONAL SECURITY INVITATION FOR TENDERS FOR THE PROVISION OF INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SAINT LUCIA FIRE SERVICE FLEET OF VEHICLES The Saint Lucia Fire Service hereby invites Tenders for the provision of Insurance Coverage for the Fire Service Fleet of Vehicles.

A total of fifty-three (53) vehicles are due for renewal. The vehicles are to be comprehensively Insured and the policy should include coverage for special risk/perils and passenger risk for Employees of the insured.

Details of the bid specifications including the listing of the vehicles can be obtained from the Saint Lucia Fire Service, Manoel Street, Castries or by contacting the Fire Service Department at Telephone number 455-6100 Tenders should be submitted no later than 4:00 p.m. of Tuesday July 9th 2019, in a sealed envelope marked, “Tender for the provision of Insurance Coverage for the Fire Service Fleet of Vehicles” and addressed to The Secretary Central Tenders Board Department of Finance 2nd Floor, Financial Centre Building Pointe Seraphine Castries

their graphic depiction of Buller and Wooding Streets. Locally, one of the words used to mean “penis” is “wood” and so “Wooding” can be interpreted as the use and application of the said instrument. A “Buller” is another name for a male homosexual. Put these together and under the influence of the ubiquitous alcohol, things could get out of hand and the acting can become like Brando’s Stanislavski Method, the actor immersing himself so completely into the role that it seems completely realistic. It was far too accurate a rendition for the judges and they ended the entertainment forthwith.

There are also other Trinidad streets like Hornerman Lane (a horner-man is one who gives “horns” to, or cuckolds, another man) and the inevitable Pregnancy Lane hard by.

However, village and street names in Trinidad cannot compare with those of Jamaica in hilarity, inventiveness and appeal. When you pass “Breadnut Bottom” and “Soursop Turn” you might stumble upon “Gimme-MeBit” and “Uman Hole” in St. Andrew, “Lennox Bigwoods” in Westmoreland (a sure hit in a Trinidad Carnival) and “Ma Puhpoo Hole” in Hanover. There

is “Fat Hog Corner”, “Fat Hog Quarter” and “Hog Hole”, “Puss Gully” and “Crutches Lane”, “Poom-Poom Walk” and “Cock Burn Pen”; then, if these are not enough, take your pick of “Longwood”, “Shortwood”, “Cockspen”, “Prickly Pole” and, in St Elizabeth, “Slip-mi-Shit”.

In addition there are “Restand-Be-Thankful”, “Me-NoCall-You-No-Come”, “Bad Times”, “Broke Neck Gully”, “Putogether Corner”, “Dump”, “Shambles”, “Rat Trap”, “Ben Dung”, “Poor Mans Corner”, “Never Mine”, “Sally’s Delight”, “Betty’s Hope”, “Thankful Hill”, “Boldness”, “Good Design”, “Excellent Town”, “Happy Retreat”, “Slow Dong”, “Heart Ease”, “Friendship” and “Welcome”. And if you go to Portland and ask the people there if they have any names that are as inventive and funny as the ones above, they would tell you frankly that they have “Nonsuch”.

If you are someone seeking Adventure, like the naturalist Gerald Durrell, or you want a close Friendship just for the Experience, or are seeking the blessings of Providence, you would find Success in Guyana.

It is a place where Bob Marley would have discovered both Babylon and Zion. And for those

who believe that Charity begins at home, they would find it ends in Guyana. Barbados has a few intriguing names but its big deal for me is that for an island that is flat there are more places with names ending in “Hill” than even mountainous Jamaica, Trinidad and Guyana. Including “Cave Hill” there are 19 Hills in all. One of my friends said, “If you have such a flat country it would take a lot of balls to have so many hills.” I set him straight. “When it comes to Balls, Barbados only has one and it is a Plantation in Christ Church.”

Tony Deyal was last seen trying to find out the origin of the name of the Trinidad village, “Bonasse”.

He was wondering if “Bon” in this case meant “Good” or “Excellent”, or if it was short for “Bony”.

Tony Deyal is from Trinidad.

He now runs a column in the Jamaica Gleaner, NationNews Barbados and the St Lucia Star, and runs a free literary magazine on mytrinidad.net.

Tony can be contacted at tdeyal@yahoo.co.uk or on 1-868-351-1000.

Jamaican Reggae and Dancehall Artists Wayne Wonder and Kranium to Headline Saint Lucia’s Mercury Fest

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he Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is proud to be associated with the second annual Mercury Fest slated for July 20, 2019. The ultimate beach party, produced

by Epic Events, is one of the most anticipated highlights of the summer.

Jamaican reggae and dancehall artists, Wayne Wonder and Kranium, will headline the event along with local performances by Dennery Segment Megastars Black Boy, Cooyah and Umpa. A Caribbean cultural mix of music will be infused by top deejays from Saint Lucia, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Trinidad and Tobago and St. Maarten.

The event has piqued the interest of numerous visitors and owners of vessels with Mercury-installed engines, especially from the Caribbean

market who will drop anchor at Pigeon Island beach to be a part of the event.

Marketing Manager for Caribbean and Events at the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, Christopher Gustave said; “Last year the event welcomed foreign nationals from Martinique, France, the United States, Trinidad, Dominica, Guadeloupe, the UK, El Salvador and the Dominican Republic and we look forward to welcoming all the visitors who will grace our shores during the actionpacked weekend.”

This year the event promises lots of excitement with numerous additions including cabanas on the water, an expanded foam pit with beach toys and a bikini boxing gym.

“Mercury Fest is proving to be an ultimate experience that

has exposed its true potential as a major visitor attraction.

With hoteliers, taxi and tour operators, as well as vendors, who directly benefit from the economic activity of this event eagerly awaiting its staging, we anticipate that this mega event will continue to progress as a global attraction, placing even more spotlight on Saint Lucia as the events capital of the Caribbean,” said Tourism Minister Honourable Dominic Fedee.

Tickets to the second annual Mercury Fest are priced at EC $150.00, and can be purchased online at www.eventbride.com; www.islandetickets.com; www.dealsdesiles.com; and locally at Sixt Car Rental at the IGY Rodney Bay Marina and The Cell outlets in Castries and at Baywalk Mall.

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CARICOM Secretary General Addresses Marijuana Commission Recommendations Joshua St. Aimee

S

ecretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Irwin LaRocque has warned the region against trading cannabis through member states. He made the comments at a press briefing on Tuesday, ahead of the 40th Regular Meeting of Heads of Government. LaRocque disclosed that many pertinent issues were down for discussion, including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), blacklisting, crime and security, and climate change. Asked whether CARICOM had a unified position on cannabis decriminalization, LaRocque cited the Regional Commission on Marijuana, established in 2014, and the subsequent report presented in 2018. He said the report is the basis upon which member states will determine how they treat the matter at a national level, since it takes into consideration aspects including the medical, social and religious, as well as the impact on young people.

Some of report’s recommendations: declassifying cannabis as a dangerous drug or narcotic; amending laws to permit the importation and exporting of cannabis and by-products; and substituting the current prohibitive, criminalsanctioned regime with “legal and social policy that emphasises public health, education and human rights". The Commission also recommended the imposition of moderate taxes so that the black market is not reinvigorated, and called for implementing an age limit.

The parliaments of Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have all passed cannabis-related legislation. On May 9 this year the Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis Dr. Timothy Harris introduced the island’s Cannabis Bill in the national assembly. The expectation is the Bill will soon be debated and finally will provide legislation for medicinal, religious and recreational uses of the crop.

FOND DOUX PLANTATION & RESORT SCORES AT HOTEL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

F

ond Doux Plantation & Resort has been ranked in the 2019 Top 100 Luxury Resort Worldwide at the 2019 Hotel of the Year Awards. The Awards recognize and reward hotels, resorts, boutique properties and spas that deliver exceptional levels of service and world-class facilities to guests.

Eroline Lamontagne, Fond Doux's Executive Director said, “It is always rewarding to receive these awards, for it shows our commitment to our island, employees and the community in which we operate by maintaining our sustainable practices, Saint Lucia’s rich culture, heritage and legendary hospitality.”

The Hotel of the Year Awards are unique to the hospitality industry as they offer a fully recorded inspection to each official nominee which is then followed up with a comprehensive inspection report that can act as a consultation to review current guest services and facilities. This can be of great value to management and owners who seek to improve the overall guest experience that they offer.

Fond Doux continues to make powerful strides in expanding and improving its unique 100% Saint Lucian product as well as the guest experiences.

This award comes only a month after receiving the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Certificate of Excellence and the Hotels.com Sustainable Hotel Award.

On July 2, the Guyana government announced it had approved a proposal to lift custodial sentences for persons in possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana.

LaRocque warned against the transporting of cannabis and cannabis products, since it remains a banned substance for international trade governed by the UN’s 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. He referenced America, where it remains illegal to transport the crop across some state lines. At

the time of writing, marijuana use is legal in eleven US states. The crop remains illegal under the country’s federal law.

“So we’re not encouraging that people start moving with marijuana. You risk being arrested. No doubt about it, you’re moving a banned substance,” he said. “We’re looking at decriminalising marijuana at the national level, not about trading it . . . Do not try to cross the CARICOM Secretary General Irwin LaRocque at border with marijuana.”

Tuesday’s press briefing.

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MDGPS has Much to Celebrate this Year the sixth grade after receiving his Common Entrance mark. He was determined not to waste his second chance. He worked assiduously throughout the year, hat a difference a willingly taking extra classes year makes! The in Special Ed so as to catch sobs of one tearful up with concepts he had been sixth grader and his equally overwhelmed mother seemed struggling to grasp.

“He got 49.67 at Common to clash with the festive Entrance last year,” said backdrop of the brightly Auguste. “Do you know what festooned kindergarten classroom, the traditional hall mark he got this year?” she for graduation ceremonies at asked rhetorically. At the announced 71.33 the room Morne Du Don Government exploded with shouts and Primary School (MDGPS). In handclapping. Dwany was attendance were parents/ declared the winner of the guardians and teachers, all 2019 MDGPS Principal’s award. dressed for the momentous occasion, all eyes firmly fixed His mother ran up to wrap her arms around him, an embrace upon the sobbing student. that brought to the onlooker’s The earlier roof-raising applause and cheers abruptly mind such words as pride and love and yes, admiration. gave way to the sound of Then she showered his cheeks silence as the principal with kisses as, with trembling Jacinta Auguste recalled fingers, he gripped his winner’s Dwany Dalson’s year-long trophy. journey.

Dwany’s story mirrors quite

She revisited the sombre closely the recent journey of mood in her sixth grade classroom only a year earlier. his beloved school. Even before all the pomp and ceremony Dwany’s cheeks were tearof Wednesday’s graduation soaked then, as now, as he begged Ms. Auguste to repeat ceremony, the MDGPS had Dean Nestor

W

A tearful Dwany Dalson about to receive the Principal’s Award from Jacinta Auguste at the MDGPS graduation ceremony.

already been in a celebratory mood. Monday July 1 was the date the Common Entrance results were revealed. The freshly-minted principal could barely contain her euphoria at the school’s performance.

“I can say that all of us at the school are elated,” she said behind a satisfied smile. “This is one of the highest averages we’ve attained at the school in the last ten years.”

Over the last five years, the school had languished below the national mean, a sore point

for both teachers and students.

But, said Auguste, “this year we surpassed it by 3.64!”

And just who or what was responsible for such a remarkable turnaround? MDGPS mainstay, Cecile Charles, credited the change to an allround more positive feeling at the school.

“The whole ethos of the school, the atmosphere, is a lot better,” she enthused. “We’re more relaxed and we’re more focused on what we have to do. There’s no real tension,

especially with the teachers.

And the students feel the same.

We all worked very hard and did what we had to do.”

Only last year, the school was lamenting that none of its girls had passed to Saint Joseph’s Convent. This time around Kayla Emmanuel topped the list of Convent-bound students, with an average of 90.39. Five, in total, are headed there this year. “I was surprised that I topped the school,” Kayla confessed. “I feel special. My grandmother screamed when

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she heard the news. I’m excited I’m heading to the Convent.”

Valedictorian Denzel Phillips, a mere broken leg unable to keep him from his graduation or from school, even after the exam, revealed how happy his parents were when they got the news their boy was on his way to St. Mary’s College.

As I marched through my old stomping ground, pondering the achievement of the final class I taught, the excitement was as palpable as the gentle Morne Du Don breeze warmly blowing against my face. Amid all the familiar names and faces, one particular pupil came to mind. Three years ago she had struggled immensely with her reading. Now she is heading to Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School. Shekim, Michael, Tayshawn, Jahneye, Pertice, Kyrma, Gracie, Lina, Sherdell, Alex and company have made a contribution to their school and community that will not soon be forgotten.

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AN ENCYCLOPAEDIC HISTORIOGRAPHY BY CALIXTE GEORGE Peter Josie

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he history of St. Mary’s College, as written

by Calixte George, is an encyclopedic historiography; a gem. In this fast-expanding global interconnectedness driven by advances in science and technology, the use of history seems lost as the world rushes ever faster forward. It is therefore left to teachers and professors of history to make the subject interesting to those who dare to probe the past, perchance to better understand the present and help plot the future. Where we are today, and how we arrived here, are questions we can’t continue to shirk. Those who do not turn to history for fear of confronting a traumatic past may be forgiven for thinking the past can return to harm them.

There is unfortunately no escape from history.

Some have argued that there is hardly a more important subject for study than history. History pulsates with life, making it vibrant, especially if it touches on interesting personalities who helped shape the present. Indeed, it may be said that there are few things that bring history alive more than the biographical approach in which interesting personalities are described. Everybody loves an interesting story. One about exciting personalities who triumphed where others tasted the bitter fruit of failure can be even more riveting.

St. Mary’s College, the Caribbean’s Nobel Laureate School, is an 800-page meticulously researched labour of love. The book covers three

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epochs presented within six chapters covering 130 years of the moulding of Saint Lucian men. It is a masterpiece by any measurement standard. Mr. George writes with a feeling for style and with a sense of values that gives him a unique and secure place among those who have attempted to write the history of Saint Lucia, or some aspect of it.

I was privy to some of the early discussions and writings as Calixte embarked on this long and testing journey. One question kept popping in my mind as I observed him examining research materials: Who else could undertake such a task? Interestingly, the two names I settled on, both contributed to the finished product. I refer to Dr. Edsel Edmunds (Cy) and Mr. Francis Leonce (Frankie). On further reflection, it’s the painstaking work and patience of the trained agriculturists, whether in research or in administration (to monitor the growth of plants and animals or in pest and disease control), that gives them the edge for such long, challenging work.

Such discipline puts the final touches to their character and professionalism. In addition, only someone in the age group that made the transition from the old to the new St. Mary’s after the great fire of Castries and the end of World War II (the end of the second and the commencement of the third epoch in Calixte’s book) could have qualified for such a monumental task.

In my early days at St. Mary’s I was a little ambivalent about the final outcome. I was already building a financial base, with my several animals in Vieux Fort, when my life was disrupted. I left St. Mary’s more knowledgeable than I entered it, but poorer . . . or so I thought. My family believed that I was privileged to have passed to “go-tocollege” but I feared being uprooted. I was aware of the many bright boys who could have been an asset to St. Mary’s had there been room at the school. It was the only secondary school for boys and it’s a shame that only three of us left Vieux Fort that year for St. Mary’s.

I therefore view the success of St.

Mary’s with mixed feelings as there was nothing to compete against. From its history, we now learn that its early beginnings were more about religion than education, as such. Why did it take so long to build another secondary school for boys (or for girls) when the need was so great?

In Mr. George’s book, we see Dominica, St. Kitts, Antigua and Grenada clearly taking preference over Saint Lucia in investment in education

by the colonial power. “Little England” (Barbados) was a white-owned and ruled country, so it does not count here. Even with its late grudging start, St. Mary’s produced notable names that are today recognized in the Caribbean and the World.

Names such as Auguste, Charles, Devaux, George, Gordon, King, Louisy, Lewis, St. Rose and Walcott come readily to mind.

Perhaps God has answered the neglect of the early church

and the colonial office with the vengeance of bestowing two Nobel laureates who are highlighted in Calixte’s historical masterpiece. Whatever one may think about the Presentation Brothers in Saint Lucia, they made a great difference to education on the island. They were more openminded about the culture of the island and, without them, Derek Walcott would never have emerged the brilliant writer and poet he became.

Walcott was denied a teaching job at St. Mary’s upon graduating from UCWI. Later, George Odlum was denied the permanent secretary job in Education, from the same sort of thinking. Odlum and the St. Lucia Forum fought that thinking and helped establish Hunter Francois’ Education Bill that finally removed education from the hands of a narrow-minded, selfcentred religious group. A burst of secondary school construction followed and now there are more secondary school places on the island than children to fill them.

The life of a human being who has achieved anything of value fascinates me, as it should others. The great figures of St. Mary’s history have all had exciting lives, and Calixte has written about them in a manner and thinking that transcends didactic purpose. It is informative without being doctrinal or pedagogic. In other words, it’s a historical monument that deserves a special place in the home of every Saint Lucian, or friend of Saint Lucia, wherever they may be.

Financial Action Task Force

T

Recommendation 23: DNFBPs—Other Measures

he Financial Action Task Force (FATF), in its Forty Recommendations, gives very clear guidelines to designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs). These entities are referred to in the Money Laundering (Prevention) Act, Cap12.20 (MLPA) of Saint Lucia as ‘other business activities’ and include, but are not limited to, lawyers, real estate agents, jewellers, accountants and registered agents.

In Recommendation 23, DNFBPs are required to abide by the guidelines addressed in Recommendations 18 to 21.

Developing group-wide policies for anti-money laundering and combatting the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) are required in keeping with Recommendation 18. Further, procedures are to be established relating to how these AML/CFT policies are to be shared with the group.

In Recommendation 19, DNFBPs are required to apply enhanced customer due diligence measures to business relationships

and transactions from countries which are deemed by the FATF to have higher risks of money laundering or terrorist financing.

DNFBPs are encouraged to use the risk-based approach when conducting enhanced customer due diligence. In that regard, the techniques applied should be proportionate to the risks identified.

The foundation of Recommendation 20 is the reporting of suspicious transactions. DNFBPs are required to report to the Financial Intelligence Authority any suspicious transaction that they may encounter during the course of their business.

For example, jewellers would be required to report “when they engage in any cash

transaction equal to or above the acceptable designated threshold”. The applicable threshold as indicated in the Money Laundering (Prevention) Act, Cap 12.20, section 16(1) (l) is twenty-five thousand dollars (XCD25,000).

The MLPA in section 16(1) (k) mandates DNFBPs to “report to the Authority any suspicious transaction relating to money laundering as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event, within 7 days of the date the transaction was deemed to be suspicious”.

Tipping off and confidentiality are dealt with in Recommendation 21. This recommendation requires the directors, officers and employees of DNFBPs to be

protected from any criminal or civil liabilities, if they breach contract disclosure restrictions by filing suspicious transaction reports (STRs) with the Financial Intelligence Authority. This protection must be embedded in legislation.

During the on-site assessment September 1627, 2019, assessors from the Caribbean Financial Task Force (CFATF) will conduct interviews with persons from various DNFBPs to determine their compliance with the requirements of this recommendation

For further details on Recommendation 23, members of the public are encouraged to visit the website of the CFATF at www.cfatf-gafic.org.

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Why has the Government not Treated Water Bottles as Another Plastic Menace?

lastic Free July is an international campaign led by the Australian-based Plastic Free Foundation, which encourages people across the world to be part of the solution to plastic pollution by refusing single-use plastics. Some of the proposals include using reusable shopping bags, coffee cups and water bottles, refusing plastic straws, and organising clean-ups in communities.

The Department of Sustainable Development is on board with the observance of Plastic Free July, and last week issued a press release inviting public and private sector departments, agencies and groups to curtail their reliance on single-use plastics.

The Department also called on other government departments to request a permanent change for in-house catering, whereby caterers provide biodegradable or reusable dishes, cutlery and glasses.

Minister for Sustainable Development, Dr. Gale Rigobert, was happy about the initiative:

legislators any time soon?

For some time now, Ti Kaye Resort & Spa has partnered with other agencies in organising clean-up campaigns islandwide. Resort owner Mr. Nick Pinnock applauded the recent legislation and is hopeful the plastic bottles problem will soon also be tackled. He said a recent clean-up of some seven miles of road, from Roseau to Anse La Verdure, had picked up two large truckloads of waste.

“While an accurate tally was not conducted,” he said, “I’m sure

most participants would agree plastic water bottles formed the greater part of the collection.”

He lamented the effect on visitors who come to the island expecting a clean environment.

He added, “We have used in our tourism advertisement ‘Simply Beautiful’ and currently ‘Let her inspire you’ but the tag lines almost amount to false advertising. For our own survival we must change some of our habits or face the consequences.”

---JSA

PayCab Launches in St Lucia The Solid Waste Management Authority is hoping it won’t be long before such nightmarish scenes as pictured will disappear from the local landscape.

“Reducing our dependence on single-use plastics can only put a stop to indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste, which always rears its ugly head when it rains.”

In June parliament passed the Styrofoam and Plastic Food Service Containers (Prohibition) Bill that, starting next month,

will make illegal the importation, manufacturing, sale, use and distribution of Styrofoam and plastic food service containers, also disposable trays, bowls, cups, plates, cup lids, bowl lids, forks, spoons, knives, stirrers, egg cartons and straws.

However, the Bill does not cover plastic bottles.

The Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority was unable to say how much plastic is annually dumped on-island.

A representative would say only that it was “quite a bit”.

What he meant by that can be seen at the island’s roadsides, rivers, drains and beaches. Will plastic bottles be addressed by

P

ayCab, a mobile application that merges growing transportation demands with evolving technology, is now available in Saint Lucia.

The app, which is already available for download in the Apple iOS and Google Play Stores, delivers first-world services like Uber to the island.

Initially introduced in Antigua in 2018, PayCab has matched over 6000 passengers with nearly 1000 drivers monthly, allowing passengers to move around at their convenience and drivers to earn a second income using their vehicles. PayCab is available for download today.

THE STAR

09

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JUly 06, 2019

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Women Can Help Create Male Confidence

VACANCY Applications are invited from suitable qualified persons for appointment to the post of Legal Officer in a Statutory Corporation.

JOB TITLE REPORTS TO SUPERVISES Authority

: Legal Officer : The Executive Director : Relevant assigned staff of the

A. RELATIONSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Works under the direction of and reports to the Executive Director/Board of Directors 2. Required to liaise with the Attorney General’s Chambers and Crown Prosecution Office as well as management of the Authority B. GENERAL DUTIES AND TASKS 1. Legal research 2. Legal representation in matters relating to anti money laundering and miscellaneous court matters 3. Assisting with the preparation of various reports as required by legislation 4. Training and raising awareness of the financial and business sectors on their anti-money laundering obligations.

5. Provide legal advice to the management and staff on matters related to the operations of the Authority 6. Research and advise on any other matters relating to the work of the Authority as directed by the Board and the Executive Director C. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 1. Advanced knowledge of and ability to interpret the laws of Saint Lucia including anti-money laundering, terrorism financing and criminal law legislation D. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE 1. Masters of Law Degree plus a certificate in legal Education or equivalent plus three (3) years’ experience in legal practice or 2. Bachelor of Laws Degree plus certificate in legal education or equivalent plus five (5) years’ experience in legal practice Experience or qualifications in anti-money laundering will be an asset E. GENERAL Employment will be non-pensionable. Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and will be in accordance with the terms stipulated by the Authority Applications must be accompanied by certified copies of all certificates and transcripts from the relevant institutions. Two confidential testimonials are required (one from the most recent employer of the applicant) to be submitted in a sealed envelope marked: CONFIDENTIAL – APPLICATION FOR POSITION OF LEGAL OFFICER, and must be sent to: The Director P.O. Box GM 959 Gablewoods North Post Office Castries LC02-501 Saint Lucia ONLY SUITABLY QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED AND INVITED FOR AN INTERVIEW Applications should be received no later than 10th July, 2019

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

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Claudia Eleibox Mc Dowell

O

n the last International Men’s Day, November 19, a man expressed his disappointment at the scant regard paid its observance at his workplace, as opposed to the ubiquitous pink and frilly fanfare that is normally associated with International Women’s Day. “When it’s Women’s Day, people receive so many donations of food and all kinds of other things,” he moaned. “For men, we get a few Heinekens but only after I begged HR.” I tried to explain that although I believe the story of feminism isn’t all good, International Women’s Day is a century-old tradition that celebrates women’s entrance into the world of work and our exit from unfair gender roles.

But maybe it was not about the beers. Perhaps this low-spirited man’s complaints represented a yearning for male empowerment in Saint Lucia, a resentment of inflexible local stereotypes.

Two weeks ago, I met with Mrs Geralda Bray of the St Lucia Planned Parenthood Association.

When our conversation came to the subject of the males in our society, she sighed: “We have a such a struggle with our men!”

She talked about their reluctance to undergo medical checkups, their legendary neglect of their health. “If their ability to have sex or to go to work is not a problem,” she said, “they consider visits to their doctor unnecessary, if not unmanly. They think it’s masculine to tough it out with symptoms, however painful.”

The SLPPA’s concern is not unique to Saint Lucia. A World Health Organization bulletin—The Men’s Health Gap: Men must Be Included In The Global Health Equity Agenda—states: “In most parts of the world health outcomes among boys and men continue to be substantially worse than among girls and women. Yet this gender-based disparity in health has received little national, regional or global acknowledgement or attention from health policy-makers or health-care providers.”

The bulletin included data from an international study, and concluded that the male attitude to healthcare may account for why women outlive men by almost six years on average. Also, according to the WHO, the disparities in men and women’s survival rates “reflect several factors: greater levels of occupational exposure to physical

Men's risk-taking with health has caused some alarming statistics.

and chemical hazards, behaviors associated with male norms of risk-taking and adventure, health behavior paradigms related to masculinity and the fact that men are less likely to visit a doctor when they are ill and, when they see a doctor, are less likely to report on the symptoms of disease or illness.”

The “male norms of risktaking” in Saint Lucia were revealed as Bray spoke: “I began working at Planned Parenthood on a men’s health project with minibus taxi drivers. And it was rough! The men would put so much pressure on each other.”

She explained that even for something as simple as a blood pressure check, men would bombard each other with reasons why they should not go to get it done.

“They must learn to encourage each other to do the

right thing,” said Bray, and she did not mean only in the area of healthcare. From her experience, Bray has concluded that the illusion of having only two acceptable emotions—happiness and anger—is a general problem.

“When I do sessions with men,” she said, “I always try and encourage them to be emotionally aware, to use words, say, like ‘I felt embarrassed. I felt hurt. I felt disappointed,’ instead of saying, ‘Gasa I was so vex. I was so angry.’ Sometimes anger is not what they want to cite, but they have learnt to use anger to cover a multiplicity of emotions.”

And then there’s the matter of the alarming alcohol consumption among males.

The WHO bulletin notes that for many men excessive alcohol consumption is linked to notions of masculinity. For example, a study showed that heavy

drinking “elevates or maintains a man’s status in working-class social groups by facilitating access to power associated with the hegemonic ideal of the real working man.”

Men have been cultured into these habits and according to Bray, the only way to break them is to introduce new formulas in childrearing periods by teaching boys to visit their doctors and dentists, report symptoms and discuss the spectrum of emotions from early. A final statement from Bray: “As women, we need our men to stand with us. Women think they can do it all: ‘Women’s power, let’s ditch the men, let’s destroy the men.’ That’s not helping our boys, that’s not helping our family, that’s not helping our society. We need to work with our men, to build them up and to make sure they feel secure, not vulnerable.”

TAIWAN TECHNICAL MISSION

T

he Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Co-operatives, together with the Taiwan Technical Mission hosted its premier workshop for extension officers during the week of June 24-28. The event was held at the Union Orchid Garden Conference Room. Extension officers from all agricultural regions of the island participated in this week-long exercise. The training allowed for re-examining the techniques of the extension officers to make them more efficient and effective for the current project: “Enhancement of the Efficiency of Production-Distribution Supply Chains in the Fruit and Vegetable Sector Project”.

At the opening ceremony for the workshop, the agriculture minister Ezechiel Joseph mentioned that agricultural extension officers needs to sharpen their professional skills

in order to implement this project efficiently. Moreover, the head of the Taiwan Technical Mission, Mario Cheng, also said that this project will not be successful without a robust agricultural extension system on the island.

The primary objective of the training was to outfit the personnel of the Extension and Advisory Department on how to interact directly with farmers and other persons on a daily basis and find ways of dealing with all individuals in all situations in a manner that is professional and pleasant. The training also addressed the potential issues or situations that the agricultural officers may encounter in this project. This workshop will not only aid in the smooth running of the project but will permeate the extension service throughout the country.

Following this training, the extension officers are now better equipped to deal with

situations as they relate to conflict management. The newly obtained skills in communication, work ethic knowledge, and interpersonal skills will allow the extension officers to be more effective in carrying out their duties.

At the end of the workshop, the project co-ordinator from the Ministry of Agriculture, Adline Eudovic, and TTM Specialist A-Lin Chen presented the market information and brief results from the first baseline field survey from the June Stakeholders Production Scheduling Meeting. According to the presentations, some varieties of produce are more popular on the shelf such as red cabbage, Romaine lettuce and kale. The baseline survey also shows that a lot of farmers are already trying to sell their product to the wholesale markets but the key is the consistency of the quantities supplied.

THE STAR

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JUly 06, 2019

Spitting at the Sky can Result in Permanent Eye Damage!

How far can Philip J. Pierre (left) climb up the political greasy pole with his superheavyweight former leader on his back? Perhaps he can take some lessons from his party’s treatment of Vaughn Lewis at the time of the 1997 general elections, when the then UWP leader was turned into a handicapped John Compton’s alter ego!

T

he opposition party’s latest invention, that the government cares only for friends, family and foreigners, has become as commonplace among members as was “toujou sou” several years ago, a disparaging reference to the then UWP leader Vaughn Lewis. Here is opposition leader Philip J. Pierre on April 4 referring to a “to whom it may concern” letter retrieved from the internet: “The concerted efforts by this government to feed its friends, family and foreigners at the expense of the taxpayers of this country must be confronted by an equally determined citizenry to bring it to a halt.”

Presumably the government’s FFFs do not pay taxes!

The mantra was also referenced by the Castries Southeast MP Guy Joseph at a recent UWP rally in Soufriere.

First he noted that the SLP had lately modified the line to “friends, family and undeserving foreigners”, all of which, Joseph said, underscored SLP hypocrisy.

His countenance lit up by the light of his characteristic Guy smile, he said: “I really want to know by what criteria we decide which foreigners are deserving or undeserving. Who are those foreigners?”

Two weeks later Pierre denied, in the presence of reporters, that there had been any new addition to FFF. “There was no change,” he insisted. “We still believe the country is run for the benefit of FFF. We’re not speaking about genuine investors. We’re

speaking about the foreigners that are sucking this country’s treasury for no reason. We make no apologies for that.”

Sucking the treasury for no reason? Genuine investors?

Pierre chose not to elaborate.

Then there is this, delivered by the day’s prime minister: “Mr. Speaker, on several occasions I have had reason to say in parliament, in the course of Budget debates or at public meetings, that the government of Saint Lucia, the people of Saint Lucia, may have to take decisions about the future of this country that were once repudiated or never considered acceptable.

Several months ago, parliament enacted a special Tourism Incentives Bill that gives generous provisions to the tourism sector, including waiver of property tax for the duration of 25 years of concession granted to any developer.”

The prime minister went on: “I would say that ten, fifteen years ago the thought of giving an investor 25 years for the duration of concessions to develop a property, a hotel, would have been far removed from the minds of legislators. I suspect many of us would have repudiated such an approach because for many it would have been seen as excessively generous and not necessarily fundamental to the development of the country.”

It may come as a surprise to some readers that the words quoted above did not fall out of the mouth of Allen Chastanet.

They were actually spoken in 2015 by Prime Minister Kenny Anthony, when the CIP Bill was first debated. He added: “There are members of the government that I am honoured to lead who have deep anxieties and reservations, and who probably believe that perhaps this course may not necessarily be the best course for our country at this time.”

Today, the opposition predictably shouts FFF not only with reference to the CIP, but also to every proposed government project. Evidently forgotten are the words of Kenny Anthony back in 2015, indicating that for government it could no longer be business as usual; that what was once considered unacceptable was now the medicine for what ails the nation, however bitter: “The government and people of Saint Lucia may have to take decisions about the future of this country that were once repudiated or never considered acceptable!”

Chances are the opposition, by making an FFF ruckus about every proposed government project, will be distracted from such scandals as Grynberg, Frenwell, Helen Air, Helenites, IMPACS and yes, Kenny Anthony’s private communications with Teo Ah Khing, the CEO of Desert Star Holdings ---Dean Nestor

LOCAL

11

12 COMMENT

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

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How Much Lo Before We Bur Police Corps S

everal weeks ago I received via WhatsApp an image of a front page of the long defunct Crusader newspaper, in its final days owned and edited by the late George Odlum. An accompanying note requested I read the featured story: “I think you’ll find it interesting.” And so I started reading.

First the headline: Police Persecution of Rastas Unfair!

Struck by the newspaper’s use of the word persecution when it seemed at first sight that prosecution might’ve been more appropriate, I read on: “Straight off the bat let’s set a few things straight: I stand on the side of law and order. I acknowledge the Royal St. Lucia Police Force is an overworked body with a particularly difficult mission.

I empathize with officers who sometimes must confront armed and hostile individuals. I sympathize with our dedicated representatives of the law who are regularly subjected to public abuse, unfair criticism, insults and curses that would more usefully be aimed at others more deserving. If there’s one thing the Royal St. Lucia Police Force desperately needs right now, other than a hefty pay rise, it’s a kind word or a small demonstration of public appreciation.”

It was at this point that my curiosity forced me to scroll back to the top of the page, to check the article’s publication date: September 10, 1977. I

scrolled down again, to the second paragraph: “It seems a radio station has launched a propaganda campaign designed to persuade St. Lucians to rat on friends and enemies suspected of growing, pushing or smoking marijuana. I’m not against the police requesting community assistance in their fight against crime generally, but this campaign seems aimed at a particular group: Rastafarians.

“Recently a police superintendent told the Voice he had seen no good reason why a Rastaman and his girlfriend were arrested during a pre-dawn police raid at Morne Gimie, on suspicion of cultivating marijuana. ‘That won’t solve the Rasta problem!’ he said. The ignorance demonstrated by our leaders in their treatment of Rastafarians is appalling. There is much corruption in high places. Our Premier is well aware of the rampant corruption involving police officers but does nothing about that . . . A couple years ago a young boy was shot in the mouth. The Premier announced in the House that he had ordered a special investigation.

The Premier lied. There has been no such investigation; the Premier never ordered one. And anyway, when did it become the Premier’s job to order police investigations . . .”

Only after I’d read the article in full did I wonder about its author’s identity. With almost childish anticipation I

scrolled up one more time, my mind racing. I speak nothing but truth (okay, truth slightly exaggerated!) when I say that had the writer turned out to be, say, Earl Bousquet, Guy Ellis or Brother George—the day’s literary lions—I don’t know how I might’ve reacted. What a relief it was to read “by Rick Wayne.”

Hot damn! After all my years writing here and elsewhere, you’d think I had by now outgrown such puerile titillations. Unabashedly I say, thank goodness I’ve not—and here’s hoping I never will. Keep in mind the date of the Crusader publication: September 1977.

I was then still resident in California. Conceivably I had penned the piece while vacationing here. Reading it again after all this time delivered a kick in the head reminder of how little had changed here in four decades; at any rate, for the better. Not the popular perception of our elected parliamentarians, and certainly not our relationship with the ostensible sole protectors of our lives and property. At the time I gratefully received the ancient document (it must’ve affected the sender as it had me) the “hot button topic” centered on the fatal police shooting of Arnold Joseph, a 17-year-old Entrepot school student.

Very much on the public mind at the time of the incident was Kimberly De Leon, a mother of two young children.

On the shoulders of these men rests the burden of keeping the people of St. Lucia, as well as v in the current circumstances theirs is a mission impossible. Left to right: ACP Police Commissioner Severin Moncher

She was killed by a bullet to her head as she prepared for bed on an October evening in 2018. By his own unchallenged account her husband, a police officer, was not at home when Kimberly was shot. Just hours after he discovered his wife’s body, police personnel at a press conference declared him a person of interest, for more than one stated reason.

Meanwhile, CID officers had processed the same “person of interest” and declared him clean and free to return to his home, now a crime scene. He later applied for, and was granted leave, presumably on compassionate grounds.

He recently returned to work but not to his regular place at the Criminal Investigations

Department. He has been assigned to the writs section, to a position way below his official status. Since Kimberly’s death the police have issued contradictory statements about samples taken from the crime scene, as well as the whereabouts of files related to the case.

We return now to the death of young Arnold Joseph, the star Entrepot student. The initial police word on the matter: “On Wednesday, 22 May 2019, about 10.30 p.m., officers attached to the Special Services Unit, while on mobile patrol received information regarding a suspicious motor vehicle at Reclamation Grounds, Castries.

The responding officers made attempts to stop a white

Mitsubishi Lancer, registration number PE3191 but to no avail.

The motor vehicle in question failed to stop, venturing through one-way streets about the city, contravening traffic regulations.

During an attempt to apprehend the individuals, one of the individuals was fatally shot while a second was non-fatally injured. A third male was arrested without injury.

One 9mm firearm was recovered by the officers from the said individuals.”

It emerged that the driver of the “suspicious motor vehicle” had been charged with several traffic violations, none related to a firearm. At another press conference last Thursday the police seemed to change their story. Now they claimed the 9mm had been found “en-route with reference to

THE STAR

onger ury Our rpse?

s well as visitors, safe. But almost daily there is the suggestion that right: ACP Wayne Charlery, ACP Milton Desir and Monchery.

where the incident occurred in the city. It was recovered outside the vehicle on the route to where the incident occurred in terms of the case.”

While in the first instance the police claimed the gun was recovered “by officers from the said individuals,” now they corrected themselves. They said the weapon was not found by the officers involved in the chase that turned deadly. It was recovered by “a crime unit that covers all crime scenes and they would’ve been the one to have recovered the firearm.”

At their most recent press meeting the police also explained why no one had been charged in relation to the recovered firearm: investigations were on-going, “more charges could follow.” In the meantime they strongly denied

COMMENT

www.stluciastar.com

JUly 06, 2019

having said the occupants of the suspicious vehicle had shot at them.

Last week’s press conference left much room for speculation, including: What made the white Mitsubishi a “suspicious motor vehicle” in the first place? Why did the police shooters target it, at the risk of hurting uninvolved pedestrians—especially when they denied their own lives were in imminent danger?

Who actually shot the young student and his fellow passenger? What happened when the police “attempted to apprehend” the occupants of the car that required the police to fire their weapons? Were the occupants armed? Why was there a need to undertake a

search for a firearm “at the crime scene?”

What crime scene? What crime?

If their recent press conferences are any indicator of how police investigations are conducted, then small wonder some 500 cold cases remain to be resolved. In both the Kimberly De Leon and the Arnold Joseph incidents it’s clear the right hand of the police has no clue what the left is up to.

Meanwhile, the widow Margaret Pratt, the relatives of Ollie Gobart and Jane Sinson, Bob Hathaway and others with overseas connections continue their campaigns for justice, with little good to say about the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force.

Kenny Anthony’s widely publicized 2013-15 speeches in relation to IMPACS, including his revelations about guns planted at crime scenes while a police commissioner “turned a blind eye,” have further damaged the reputation of our only security force—already indelibly stained with the blood of Yamaha, Charlie Boo, Terry James and others suspiciously dispatched by the police.

Allen Chastanet promised at election time to do better than his immediate predecessor. Obviously, that is not nearly enough. The RSLPF is widely perceived as uncaring, corrupt, incompetent, a law unto itself, growing increasingly dangerous. It is also undermanned, undertrained, depressed, frustrated, with seemingly nowhere to turn. If this sorry situation is not urgently addressed by the day’s government—by which I mean our elected parliamentarians on both sides of the House— the consequences will be catastrophic.

Already the writing is on the wall!

13

GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE CUSTOMS & EXCISE DEPARTMENT

N O T I C E NO. 3 of 2019 REQUIRED INFORMATION ON THE CARGO MANIFESTS The Transport Segment, which includeIMO/IATARegistration Number and Master’s Name, and the Tonnage Segment, which include Gross and Net Tonnage onthe Cargo Manifest are fields required for Customs functions and the implementation of the Advance Cargo Information System (ACIS) All Carrier Agents and Cargo Reporters are therefore informed that the above fields on the Cargo ManifestMUST be completed before submission of the manifest to the Customs Department.

Please be guided accordingly.

…………………………….

Anita Montoute (Mrs.) Comptroller of Customs & Excise(Ag)

14 COMMENT

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Breaking the Silence Around Domestic Abuse

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he topic of domestic abuse is something people avoid so as not to upset others or make them uncomfortable.

Although we have grown to realize domestic violence isn't an action against only women, since this column is written primarily for them, then women will be our focus. It may surprise you to discover the number of women who go through domestic abuse on a regular basis in a country as small as ours. Some may live next door to you. Some may not fit your idea of an abused woman.

But what exactly is domestic abuse? According to my research, domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence or IPV, or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviours used by one partner to maintain power and control over another in an intimate relationship. That means domestic abuse could be both verbal and physical. While abuse is stereotypically portrayed as physical violence, there are actually several categories, but today we are going to focus on the reason victims are often unable to leave their abusive situations.

Why would anyone stay with someone who beats them?

I'm not a psychiatrist; I'm just a woman who has heard many stories from victims themselves.

Many women say they would never stay with a man who beats them. Domestic violence usually occurs in long-stable relationships and the victims are caught in a psychological trap disguised as love. Abusers are very strategic. They will first seduce and charm you. In the beginning of the relationship, they listen to you, make you feel like they are your biggest fan and they create illusions that in the

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I We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

There are many subtle signs that reveal if you’re being abused or if someone you know is suffering from domestic abuse.

relationship you are the dominant one.

Usually they go for a younger woman who may be more vulnerable and unaware of the early signs of abuse. They earn your trust by telling you their deepest, darkest secrets and may present themselves as former victims. After they have captured your heart, they then isolate you.

This action isn't usually done in an abrupt suspicious way but through a kind, thoughtful act. For example, buying you your dream home. What you may not realize is that your dream home is away from your friends, family and people you know. That way there will be minimal interference by those who love you.

The next step is to introduce the threat of violence to see your reaction. For example, bringing a weapon into the house and claiming it’s for protection.

And then the abuse begins.

Sometimes victims are not even aware they are being abused. In some instances, they either feel at fault or that they might be the only person who can help the abuser deal with his issues.

In most cases, statistics scare her into staying because leaving is extremely dangerous.

Most domestic violence deaths

occur after the victim has left her abuser as he feels he no longer has anything to lose. A victim might feel she has a better chance of survival by staying. We tend to stereotype domestic violence victims as self-destructive women or so-called “damaged goods”.

People say it’s her fault because she stayed. Abusers are extremely skilled and play on a woman’s emotional side, which we know makes up a lot of a woman. When asked how they got away from their abusers, many women said they decided to tell the world. They would tell anyone who listens. And help comes from one or more of these avenues.

Many of you reading this are either being abused, were abused or know someone who is being abused. You may feel ashamed and alone but I am here to tell you that you you’ve got lots of company. You have the power to end domestic violence simply by shining a spotlight on it.

Everyone needs to understand the secrets of domestic violence. Talk about it to your children, friends and family.

Recognize the early signs and intervene. Show victims the way out. Together we can make our communities the happy, violencefree havens they should be!

Why Antigua, not ST Lucia?

was neither surprised nor disappointed by the announcement that Antigua had been chosen over Saint Lucia for the site of a fourth campus of the University of the West Indies. What has been a source of great disappointment for me is the lack of a clear and unambiguous education policy that points to where Saint Lucia is headed and its objectives. In addition, the time period and the means and personnel needed for success must be spelt out. Another source of disappointment is the dirty hands (you may say nasty) of politics, evidently at the centre of our indecisiveness. The problem may be too many bright people at the fulcrum of education who have no control over their own lives and therefore can’t seem to formulate long-term plans for anything including the development of tertiary education. In the current atmosphere it’s high time for a clear policy statement from those concerned that meets the approval of parliament. The road ahead for all aspects of the education in Saint Lucia must be clear and uncluttered.

----Peter Josie

THE STAR

Small States, Bold Choices

CARICOM’s new chairman, Allen Chastanet (pictured) urges the organisation’s growth.

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s the incoming chairman of the 40th Caribbean Community Heads of Government Conference, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet delivered the final contribution for the conference’s opening ceremony on July 3, 2019. He started off by welcoming, on behalf of Saint Lucia, all CARICOM heads of state, representatives, United Nations General Secretary António Guterres and Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway.

Part of our fortieth independence anniversary theme, “All In”, was resonated throughout the prime minister’s speech as he encouraged CARICOM member states that they don’t always have to agree but “that which binds us has always been stronger than what sometimes separate us”.

He said that as mostly Small Island Developing States (SIDS), CARICOM has already made some bold choices regarding challenges facing the Windrush generation, climate change concerns and fiscal sovereignty and tax.

Concerning the last, Chatanet

LOCAL

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JUly 06, 2019

insisted that it’s not too late for CARICOM to take a united stance and, “as a region we should rebel against the use of a blacklist that permanently damages our reputations”.

After congratulating St Vincent and Grenadines on being elected to a temporary seat on the UN Security Council, Chastanet asked the rest of CARICOM to support this small nation in pursuing a successful and effective tenure.

Moving onto climate change, the prime minister cautioned the region to continuously prepare for the ongoing hurricane season, notwithstanding the difficulties of securing international funding to build resilience. The prime minister alluded to green house gas emissions from large, developed countries, who do not compensate when damage is done, as a “cause for our current plight”. He said, “We also need a new governance structure that will allow us to draw down on the funds more quickly. We can’t take five years to implement these

resilience projects.”

The Caribbean Single Market and Economy was high on the agenda at this week’s conference and Chastanet expressed his reliance on Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados to reinvigorate the work towards CSME.

A long-time foreign ally for many CARICOM states, Venezuela was also scheduled for discussion. The prime minister made sure to note that the region recognizes only a peaceful solution made by Venezuela without military intervention.

Still, in states which are affected by the Venezuelan crisis and others which are not, crime remains alarming. Chastnaet was pleased to remind CARICOM members that the body’s Ministerial Council for National Security and Law Enforcement agreed to take stricter measures and meet more frequently to help alleviate this.

The prime minister continued with uplifting and warning remarks about more regional integration and greater reform within the organisation, “History has shown that when we join hands, we only get stronger.” He reminded leaders that the Caribbean has stood out in sports, music, academics and currency, urging them to consider, “Can we say we are satisfied with our current status? Do we believe that all our citizens or even the majority are satisfied?”

Ending with an appropriately Saint Lucian conclusion, Chastanet chimed, “This meeting is coinciding with our Carnival season and our famous Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party and, despite the weight and importance of these meetings, I also hope many of you will take time to enjoy the world-renowned hospitality of Saint Lucia. As one of only two countries in the world named after a female, please take time to let her inspire you.

“I would like to express my sincere thanks to the dedicated team from the CARICOM Secretariat, our Department of External Affairs, all the government departments and our volunteers who have worked very hard to ensure this week is a success.”

--- Claudia Eleibox Mc Dowell

15

SAINT LUCIA TOURISM AUTHORITY

CHIEF CORPORATE OFFICER Position : Chief Corporate Officer Reporting To : Chief Executive Officer/Board of Directors I. EMPLOYEE SPECIFICATIONS Education/Experience: Master’s Degree in Law, Human Resources or Business Management with 3 years in a management level position or a Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Human Resources or Business Management with 5 years in a management level position Experience: Legal experience, in particular contract law would be an asset Skills: Knowledge of administrative practices, including accounting, human resource management and IT services, excellent interpersonal skills, and excellent communication skills, both oral and written Personal Qualities: Conscientious, highly organized, analytical mindset and process oriented II. REPORTING AND ORGANISATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS Reports to: CEO/Board of Directors Supervises: IT and Human Resources and Administration Liaises with: Internally Board of Directors, CEO, all Departments Externally Public and private sector officials III. JOB DESCRIPTION Job Summary: Serving as the Secretary to the Board of Directors, and responsible for overseeing the effective administration of corporate services, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and policies and safe custody of official documents. Work closely with the Chief Executive Officer providing day-to-day management of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), including general administration, information technology services, human resources and strategic planning Responsibilities: Compliance with Legal Requirements Advises the Board and management on issues related to compliance with relevant legal requirements; Ensures all proposed agreements are properly reviewed and advises management of any legal concerns raised; Recommends legal matters to be referred to outside counsel and follows up to ensure prompt and competent service by outside counsel Oversight of Information Services Ensures the development and management of efficient and effective information systems and technology to support the Authority’s business requirements; Remains informed about developments in the area of information services and makes effective recommendations to management regarding plans to upgrade the Authority’s computerized systems Human Resource Management Ensures that the Authority has a full complement of qualified employees to enable it to perform effectively; Ensures that personnel policies and procedures are in effect and properly implemented; Ensures that personnel actions undertaken pursuant to the Authority’s policies and procedures are in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and the Labour Laws of Saint Lucia; Ensures the proper implementation of all compensation-related activities, including salary and wage adjustments, administration of benefits and use of leave; Establishes key performance indicators and ensures the performance management system is properly implemented; Ensures the preparation of an annual training plan that meets the present and future needs of the Authority; Advises management on issues related to career planning and succession management; Advises management on the appropriateness of proposed disciplinary action; Establish a positive working relationship with management and staff towards developing and maintaining an organizational culture of mutual respect, shared purpose and one that is performance driven and results oriented Administration Ensures the smooth operation of the Administration areas; Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of contracted service providers and suppliers Corporate Secretary Maintains custody and control of the corporate seal and relevant documents, including leases, contracts and insurance policies; Maintains custody of all legal agreements; Serves as Secretary to the Board; Manages Board and Committee meeting logistics; Facilitates Board communications; Monitors corporate governance developments; Assists the Board in adhering to governance practices; Attends and records minutes of Board and Committee meetings; Prepares and maintains custody of minutes of meetings of the Board of Directors and its subcommittees Management Analyses the delivery of corporate services to determine where efficiencies can be obtained and makes appropriate recommendations for changes; Prepares periodic statistical reports for management regarding corporate services General Accepts other related duties as assigned from time to time Applications are invited from suitable qualified persons, with full Curriculum Vitae and at least two references to be received by the Board before the 20th July, 2019.

Applications to be addressed to the Chairman, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, PO Box 221, Castries, Saint Lucia, and can also be sent to: jobapplications@stlucia.org.

16 FASHION

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Caribbean Fashion Week is Back!

Mae Wayne reports from Kingston, Jamaica

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fter a one-year hiatus, CFW was back on the fashion calendar, repackaged with a new twist: Africa, Nigeria.

Pulse, which has dominated the Caribbean fashion industry and modelling, has a long tradition of reinventing itself. The company has just launched its global initiative, partnering with the best of African fashion. Africa, and Nigeria in particular, has been building a respected reputation

in couture and has seen its designers featured in many music award shows.

CFW 2019 showcased a well curated ensemble of the best of Caribbean and African designers. The setting, the Villa Ronai in the rainforest, could not have more magical, more Caribbean. Presenting the collections this year were Pulse’s new runway stars led by Alicia Burke, Jeneil Williams and Oraine.

The runway, shorter than usual, allowed each model to take her time and properly parade the collections of the designers.

The Best of Trinidad featured Claudia Pegus, Heather Jones, The Cloth by Robert Young, and Meiling.

Claudia showed two collections, resort and couture.

The first category featured colours inspired by Africa, along with easy breezy white cottons.

Her couture line, as usual, was sexy, well constructed and effortless.

The Cloth by Robert Young showed the most progression.

Robert also showed two collections, for both women and men. Known for making political statements via his work, Robert chose fabrics that were natural and pure.

His deliberate selection, from cotton to linen, lends to well constructed, comfortable clothing that embraces his love for the environment.

Meiling, always a favourite and one to watch, presented a small collection that was modern, elegant, chic and perfectly executed. The collection of Anthony Reid for Meiling emphasized shirts and trousers cut to perfection. Their designs mark a great partnership in style and a vibe that is undoubtedly Meiling!

The best of Jamaica featured Biggy, drennaLuna, Hope Wade, Uzuri, Mutamba, and Rouge Creation.

I absolutely loved the drennaLuna capsule collection comprising nothing but the colour black. The designer proved that black is a colour for all occasions, from her use of lamé, silk, satin and cotton, all beautifully constructed. She made the point that all black is not created equally.

Rouge Collection by Jeneil Williams revealed the model turned designer’s growth since her first showing two years ago.

Her collection added active wear which embodies her athletic lifestyle and her universally famous tomboy physique. A line of clothing to wear at the gym, for running errands and to lounge in. As Jeneil hones her skill as a designer, she will be a force to reckon with in the very competitive active-wear industry.

Mutamba is the essence of effortless Jamaican living, and I just love Jackie. Her designs have an eclectic feel as she embraces her Afro-Caribbean heritage to create a line that exemplifies an easy, casual lifestyle.

The three Nigerian designers, led by heavyweight Mai Atafu, were the highlight of the event. Mai men’s- and

womenswear was pure high-end luxury. From his choice of fabrics to his amazing tailoring and precision cuts, his suits are certainly a cut above anything we have seen on a Caribbean runway.

Tokyo James, from Lagos, was edgy, mixing traditional fabrics with faux leather to bring us a line that any hip-hop star would die for.

The third Nigerian designer was fun! All her models were asked to smile on the runway. Her label, Ituen Basi, embraces the world with spunk and energy. Her line combines vibrant colours, a wide array of different fabrics and sharp cuts, but is still feminine and girlie.

She was a great end to a very best of CFW!

Well done Kingsley and Romae at Pulse! You pulled off yet another amazing weekend for fashion lovers!

drennaLuna Tokyo James The Cloth by Robert Young

Rouge Collection

THE STAR JUly 06, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

FASHION

17

Ituen Basi

Mai Atafu

Mai Atafu

Jeneil Williams (left) with a model for her Rouge Collection.

Meiling

Claudia Pegus

Claudia Pegus

18 HEALTH

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

KIM’S KORNER The Forgotten Benefits of the Sun

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ickets is a disorder identifiable by bowing of the legs, and is something that can be seen throughout the Caribbean. Although it can be inherited, it is mainly seen in growing children as the result of soft weak bones secondary to a vitamin D deficiency and, in some cases, a lack of calcium or phosphate. Vitamin D is one of the essential vitamins and is vital for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus— which make strong, healthy bones. But it isn’t just our bones that benefit from vitamin D; it helps boost the immune system, improve muscle function, keep the heart and lungs healthy, improve brain function and development and also has anticancer effects. The two main sources of vitamin D come from the sun and our diet.

Exposure to sunlight produces vitamin D, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the sunshine vitamin. The fact that living in the Caribbean

exposes us to abundant sunshine, compared to those living in places like North America or England, should mean that it is a condition rarely seen on our islands; but this is actually not the case. So why do we see a high incidence of this condition? The answer is simple: the same process that protects people with dark skin from some of the harmful effects of the sun also affects the production of vitamin D. Dark skin has more melanin, pigments that provide extra protection against the harmful effects of the sun. The benefits of exposure to sunlight are also being experienced by people of all skin colours due to the increased use of protective sun cream.

All is not lost if you are unable to get enough sun; food is the next line of defence. Many foods and beverages contain vitamin D such as milk, orange juice, eggs, oily fish and liver; and to make sure we have

Pointe Seraphine • La Place Carenage • Hewanorra Airport ~ ST. LUCIA Esplanade Shopping Complex ~ GRENADA

MULTIPLE SALES CONSULTANTS WANTED Harry Edwards Jewelers – founded in 1999 – continues to be St. Lucia’s premier duty-free retailer for almost 20 years, specializing in exclusive world-renowned luxury branded jewelry, watches, crystal, and accessories. With multiple retail locations island-wide, and current expansion into other islands, we are seeking results-driven sales consultants with dynamic personalities to join our team.

Candidates for this position should prioritize customer care, acquisition, and company profitability.

Sales Consultants - required for high performance, commission-based roles Duties and Responsibilities: • Achieve and surpass store targets while closing sales by means of excellent customer service and salesmanship.

• Maintain a personal customer database and positive customer relationships in addition to keeping clientele informed by notifying them of preferred customer sales and future merchandise of potential interest.

• Generate and qualify leads via phone and email.

• Welcome customers into our stores with a warm and friendly disposition.

• Ensure our stores have a pleasant shopping atmosphere and are kept up to the standard set by management.

• Promote products/services to new and existing customers.

• Represent our company at various functions, showcases, and product training during and outside of regular store hours.

• Work on weekends and holidays.

• Continuously improve through feedback.

Requirements and Qualifications • Must have a positive attitude and be able to accept criticism.

• Must take pride in his/her appearance.

• Must be a self-motivated, assertive individual.

• Must be determined to meet and exceed monthly sales targets.

• Must be confident and well-spoken with excellent customer service and communication skills (verbal and written).

• Must have an aptitude for negotiation and persuasion.

• Must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently as well as with a team in a highly competitive commission-based environment.

• Must have strong organizational skills and excellent time management.

• Must be able to learn and implement sales techniques.

Please submit your CV by July 31, 2019, to info@harryedwardsjewelers.com with the subject: SALES CONSULTANT APPLICATION or mail to: Harry Edwards Jewelers Attn.: Hiring Manager P.O. Box 1889, Maurice Mason Avenue Sans Souci, Castries LC04 101

plenty of sources; some foods have been fortified with vitamin D. Have a look at the cereal boxes next time you go out shopping. When we ingest food and drink containing vitamin D, our bodies convert it into its active form in the kidney and liver. It’s important to remember, however, that if food is your only source of vitamin D, you may need to take a supplement to ensure you meet the minimum daily requirement.

Rickets had almost been eradicated in many countries but over the last few years it has slowly started to reappear.

So, exactly how does rickets cause all these problems? It is down to the strength and hardness of bones. Soft bones in young children can impact on how bones grow and can affect the growth plates, areas of new bone growth at the ends of bones, and signs are usually noticed between the ages of six months and two years. This can not only cause bone deformity such as bow legs, knock knees or scoliosis, but also thickening at the wrists and ankles. As well as these common visual sign, rickets can also lead to delayed growth, delayed motor skills, muscle weakness and pain, especially in the back and legs. If left untreated it can also affect the teeth and cause seizures.

As well as lack of vitamin D in our diets and by exposure to the sun, there are other factors that predispose children and adults to this problem. People who have Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease,

cystic fibrosis and kidney problems are at higher risk of experiencing a deficiency. Other factors include: • Dark skin • People who live in places where there is less sunlight • A mother having vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy • Premature babies • Medications such as anti-seizure and anti-retroviral can affect the body’s use of Vitamin D • Breastfeeding if the mother is deficient in Vitamin D.

Diagnosis is usually made in childhood. Doctors may notice that the baby is not developing as expected and shows signs of excessive bowing of the legs when starting to walk. Bowing legs in a toddler is not abnormal, but it usually lessens as the child gets older. When bowing appears to worsen as the child gets older, it may be a sign of the presence of rickets.

This, along with other signs mentioned above, and other diagnostic tests such as X-rays, and blood and urine tests, can assist your healthcare provider when making a definitive diagnosis of rickets.

In most cases rickets is treated with vitamin D and calcium supplements. If the deformities are severe, your healthcare provider may suggest bracing of the legs and/or spine to assist with positioning as the body grows.

In some cases physiotherapy may help where there is muscle weakness and decreased function. If conservative

With high sources of vitamin D, bow legs, which is a sympton of rickets, may be avoidable.

management is not successful in managing the symptoms and progress of the condition, then surgery may be indicated. But do not over worry if your toddler appears to have bow legs; it may be quite normal. It is only a problem if, as they grow older, the problem gets worse.

Prevention is not possible in all cases but certain lifestyle changes can help in many instances. The best source of vitamin D is sunlight but if, as we discussed earlier, you live in countries with limited sunlight

(close to the northern latitudes or during long, winter months) or have dark skin, this may not be an option. The next option is to ensure that your diet is rich in foods that are high in vitamin D. However, in some cases the only option is to take a vitamin D or calcium supplement. If you feel that you are not getting enough vitamin D, or you notice excessive deformities or some of the symptoms mentioned earlier, then it is important to contact your physician for guidance and advice.

Kim Jackson is a UK-trained physiotherapist with over 20 years’ experience. She specialises in musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction including back pain and sciatica, stroke and other neuro conditions plus sports physiotherapy, having worked with local, regional and international athletes and teams treating injuries and analysing biomechanics to improve function and performance. She is registered with the Allied Health Council and is a member of PASL. She currently works at Bayside Therapy Services in Rodney Bay, tel. 458 4409 or 284 5443; www.baysidetherapyservices.com

New Ferry Service from Martinique

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new ferry is now crossing the channel between Martinique and Saint Lucia. On Thursday July 4, the Ambassador of France, His Excellency Philippe Ardanaz, hosted a buffet luncheon for almost 200 guests drawn from both islands. Those from Martinique had arrived that morning on the new Capo Rosso ferry.

The new vessel, which is an addition to the existing Capo Rosso 1, has a capacity of ninety-five passengers, with three crew members. The boat sails from Marin in Martinique to the IGY Rodney Bay Marina,

five days weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday). The service will increase on public holidays and during school vacation.

Departure out of Martinique is at 7:00 a.m. and out of Saint Lucia at 4:00 p.m. The journey takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

At present, only French nationals and Saint Lucian nationals holding resident cards for Martinique are able to use this service. The authorities are currently discussing the possibility of transporting holders of Saint

The new Capo Rosso ferry. She’s fast, smooth, comfortable and distinctly pink.

Lucian passports. Once an agreement has been reached, customs and immigration facilities will be made available

at the Marin port to facilitate those persons, as well as an office at Rodney Bay for the sale of tickets.

THE STAR

Yoga and Osteoporosis

By Jill Hagar, certified instructor of Iyengar Yoga and a certified International Yoga Therapist.

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ur bones are living tissues that are constantly changing.

Our peak bone mass, when the bones are most dense, is in our early 20s. From that time the bones are constantly remaking themselves.

Osteoporosis occurs when the bones deteriorate faster than they are rebuilding.

Osteoporosis means ‘porous bones’ and is a disease where the density and quality of the bones decrease. This can be due to a lack of calcium and phosphorus, poor diet, lack of exercise, and also menopause.

Our bones, being porous, have small holes in them that increase in size so the bones become more porous

HEALTH

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JUly 08, 2019

and fragile, as well as weak and brittle. Often there are no symptoms until you experience your first fracture.

Too little of certain foods can be a factor in accelerated deterioration of bones. The body benefits from foods that are high in calcium: seeds, cheese, yogurt, beans and lentils, almonds, whey protein, dark leafy greens, rhubarb, amaranth, edamame, tofu, figs and milk.

The body also functions better with foods that are high in phosphorus: sunflower and pumpkin seeds, dairy products, nuts, whole grains, amaranth, quinoa, beans, lentils and soy.

Calcium and phosphorus work together to create healthy bones.

Studies have indicated that a dedicated practice of yoga 2-3 times per week may help to slow or reverse osteoporosis. Yoga improves

muscular strength and flexibility, which helps with balance, especially as we age, and this helps to prevent falls and broken bones. Many yoga postures are weight-bearing because we’re working with our own body weight. Weightbearing poses help the bones to become thicker and stronger.

Yoga can stimulate the bones to retain calcium, provided the body gets enough calcium in the first place.

When choosing a yoga class, check that the teacher is familiar with osteopenia and osteoporosis and how to work with students who have this disease. Doing the postures without proper alignment in the physical body will not benefit those with this issue.

When commencing yoga practice, students should begin with standing postures to strengthen the body. This is extremely important for every

student but especially for those with any type of bone or joint problems.

In learning to do the basic standing pose, Tadasana (mountain pose), the student learns to manage the thigh muscles and those supporting the knees. This helps to strengthen the bones.

Standing poses build strength to prepare the student for forward bends, seated poses, inversions and back extensions.

Yoga and a well balanced diet with less salt, sugar and processed foods will create a healthier, happier body and mind.

Anybody suffering with osteoporosis, who would like to know more about how Yoga could be helpful, can contact Jill at Yoga St Lucia by phone or WhatsApp on (758) 718 1297 or by email on yogastlucia@gmail.com.

19

VACANCY DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced and knowledgeable Technology and Information Manager to join the St. Lucia Marketing Board (SLMB) restructuring team in creating and managing a New Agriculture Marketing Entity.

JOB SUMMARY The Technology and Information Manager has overall responsibility for the New Marketing Entity’s technology infrastructure to ensure that it is available to its users at all time. The Technology and Information Manager will also be responsible for the supervision of all ICT installations, updates and ICT services being supplied to the New Entity. Those functions will be carried out in accordance with the New Entity’s Articles of Association, policies and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • At least five (5) years experience at as an IT, ICT or Technology Manager OR ; • a Bachelors degree in Information Technology or Computer Science; • Familiarity with at least one modern programming and/or scripting language and technical competencies in ; Visual Basic for Applications(VBA) ,TCP/IP (WAN/LAN) networks setup and configuration, Personal Computer setup and troubleshooting, relational databases setup, configuration and management and Network Security; • Familiarity with accounting, retailing, marketing, product traceability will be assets.

Including; • Excellent verbal, analytical, organizational and written skills; • Perpetual learner and self developer; • Innovative and problem solving; • Emotionally intelligent strong leader and team player; • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.

REMUNERATION AND STAFF BENEFITS Commensurate with experience, skills set and qualifications.

Application packages are accepted only via email at restructure.slmb@gmail.com and addressed to “General Manager, St. Lucia Marketing Board, P.O Box 441, Castries, St. Lucia” to reach him no later than July 7th 2019.

VACANCY

VACANCY

VACANCY

DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced and knowledgeable Corporate Executive Assistant to join the St. Lucia Marketing Board (SLMB) restructuring team in creating a New Agriculture Marketing Entity.

DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced and knowledgeable Production and Distribution Manager to join the St. Lucia Marketing Board (SLMB) restructuring team in creating and managing a New Agriculture Marketing Entity.

DESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly skilled, experienced and knowledgeable Chief Financial Officer to join the St. Lucia Marketing Board (SLMB) restructuring team in creating and managing a New Agriculture Marketing Entity.

JOB SUMMARY The Corporate Executive Assistant will assist the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Company Secretary in the management of the New Marketing Entity’s corporate and communication activities which includes but not limited to; making arrangements for Board of Directors meetings, office management, supervising clerical staff and document management. Those functions will be carried out in accordance with the New Entity’s Articles of Association, policies and procedures.

JOB SUMMARY The Production and Distribution Manager has overall responsibility for the efficient and effective management of the New Marketing Entity’s agricultural production and distribution operations.

The Production and Distribution Manager would be responsible for the following; supervision of all distribution outlets, procurement and distribution of farm inputs, computer aided production scheduling of farmers’ production and the import and export of agricultural produce. Those functions will be carried out in accordance with the New Entity’s Articles of Association, policies and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • At least an associate degree in degree in Business Administration, Business Management or Information Technology; • Excellent keyboarding, document creation and Desktop Publishing skills.

• Familiarity with a document management application will be an asset.

Including; • Excellent verbal, organizational and written skills; • Perpetual learner and self developer; • Innovative and problem solving; • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite specifically; Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint.

REMUNERATION AND STAFF BENEFITS Commensurate with experience, skills set and qualifications.

Application packages are accepted only via email at restructure. slmb@gmail.com and addressed to “General Manager, St. Lucia Marketing Board, P.O Box 441, Castries, St. Lucia” to reach him no later than July 7th 2019.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • At least five (5) years experience at a senior management level at a food retail or wholesale establishment OR ; • a Bachelors degree in Production Management, Management of Business, Business Administration or Accounting; • Familiarity with customs and excise regulations in Saint Lucia, transportation modeling, product packaging, product trace ability, HAACP, GAP, and ISO will be assets; Including; • Excellent verbal, analytical, organizational and written skills; • Perpetual learner and self developer; • Innovative and problem solving; • Emotionally intelligent strong leader and team player; • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Microsoft Excel.

REMUNERATION AND STAFF BENEFITS Commensurate with experience, skills set and qualifications.

Application packages are accepted only via email at restructure. slmb@gmail.com and addressed to “General Manager, St. Lucia Marketing Board, P.O Box 441, Castries, St. Lucia” to reach him no later than July 7th 2019.

JOB SUMMARY The Chief Financial Officer has overall responsibility for the efficient discharge of the financial affairs of the New Marketing Entity. These relate to, but are not limited to the following areas: financial planning, product costing, budgeting, accounting systems development, payroll accounting, investment planning and management, and financial reporting. Those functions will be carried out in accordance with the New Entity’s Articles of Association, policies and procedures, and internationally accepted accounting principles and conventions.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • At least five (5) years post-qualification experience in a

senior accounting position; • Member of a recognized professional body of Accountants; • Working knowledge of Saint Lucia’s tax laws; • Sound knowledge in financial and operations management

principles and practices; • Strong management capabilities and financial prowess.

Including; • Excellent verbal, analytical, organizational and written skills; • Perpetual learner and self developer; • Innovative and problem solving; • Emotionally intelligent strong leader and team player; • Working knowledge of current financial and accounting

computer applications; • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Microsoft Excel.

REMUNERATION AND STAFF BENEFITS Commensurate with experience, skills set and qualifications.

Application packages are accepted only via email at restructure.slmb@gmail.com and addressed to “General Manager, St. Lucia Marketing Board, P.O Box 441, Castries, St. Lucia” to reach him no later than July 7th 2019.

20 SPORTS

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Windward Islands Senior Women’s Football Tournament results David R Pascal

S

aint Lucia is in the driver’s seat when it comes to winning the 2019 Windward Islands Senior Women’s Football Tournament, which kicked off Tuesday evening at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG). Saint Lucia won both their games, so a victory or even a tie today, Saturday, against Grenada, and the championship is theirs. Two games are scheduled for this evening. At 6:00 pm Dominica play St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and at 8:00 pm it’s Grenada v. Saint Lucia.

The tournament continued Thursday evening at the DSCG with Saint Lucia defeating SVG 1-0. Captain Elissa Marquis scored the only goal of the game on a penalty kick. In the first game of the doubleheader that evening, Dominica scored a late goal to earn a 1-1 tie with defending champions Grenada.

In games played Tuesday evening, SVG shutout Grenada in the first encounter 1-0 and Saint Lucia got past Dominica 3-2 with Marquis again scoring the winning goal. In Tuesday’s first game, following a tentative start, Grenada came into their own and, despite pressuring their opponents, were unable to find the back of the net. They were also thwarted by some

fine saves from the Vincentian goalkeeper.

In the 30th minute Grenada was rewarded with a free kick just outside the 18-yard box, with the resulting kick ricocheting off the cross bar to be cleared by the defence.

Five minutes later, St Vincent and the Grenadines were on the receiving end of a free kick about 30 yards out on the left flank. The right curling kick was barely tipped by the keeper off the crossbar for a corner kick.

The well taken corner landed at the feet of a Vincy player whose right boot rebounded off the crossbar to be cleared away.

Grenada, in a counter attack, seemed to have forged ahead, only for the goal to be ruled offside. They were presented with another opportunity, but again the goalkeeper saved the night. The half ended 0–0.

The second half saw St Vincent and the Grenadines being more purposeful. They were soon rewarded with a goal

by Kristiane Wilkie in the 50th minute. Grenada immediately went on the offensive but two fine saves by their opponent’s goalkeeper denied them.

Both teams engaged in a number of attacking and counter exchanges, which saw the goalkeepers executing some fine saves. And how ironic it was for the game to end with the Vincentian goalkeeper pulling off a telling save at the

Dominica (left) and Saint Lucia players going all out for ball possession.

Winning goal! It followed a corner kick from Saint Lucia Captain Elissa Marquis.

the final whistle, as SVG clung on to their 1–0 advantage.

The second game between Saint Lucia and Dominica got off to a cracker. Before the home team could settle down they found themselves trailing 1–0, courtesy of a goal in the second minute of play by Sherzelle Phillip. This served as a wake-call and the Saint Lucia team soon got into their stride, with Kayla Lionel scoring the equalizer in the 18th minute. As St Lucia continued taking the game to their opponents they were rewarded with the second goal from the boots of Illana Lashley in the 39th minute. Try as both teams might, no further goals were scored and the half ended 2–1 in favour of Saint Lucia.

The game meandered back and forth at the resumption,

which saw Dominica equalizing in the 49th minute with a goal

by Kylee Bertram.

It was soon 3–2 as Captain Elissa scored from a soaring corner kick which eluded the Dominican custodian to land in the back of the net in the 59th minute.

Dominica kept on pressing their opponents but stout defending by the Saint Lucia defence, coupled with some fine saves by their goalkeeper, kept them in the hunt. When the final whistle sounded it was a relieved and jubilant Saint Lucia who were basking in their 3–2 victory.

During a press conference Saint Lucian coach Trevor Anderson stated the obvious in simple terms: “Well our objective was always to score more goals than the opponent

Grenada Captain Grace John (left) and an SVG player try maintaining their balance going for the ball.

so that means we had to win that game.”

Trailing 1-0 in the first five minutes of the game, Marquis was asked, as Captain of Saint Lucia, what was going through her mind. “The only thing for me was to motivate the team and

keep our heads in the game,” she said. “I mean, one goal in the first five minutes; we have still have 40 minutes to go in the first half, plus another 45 minutes to go in the game. I just wanted to keep the team motivated and continue fighting.”

Female Rugby Team Competing in Olympic Qualifier

T

he Saint Lucia Rugby Football Union (SLRFU), three and a half years ago, put forward a strategic plan in an effort to reach Tokyo, Japan in 2020. This weekend the Saint Lucia National Female Rugby 7s team will take part in the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Rugby 7s Olympic qualifier in the Cayman Islands. In preparation, the female team of the SLRFU has, over the last three years, participated successfully in a number of international competitions.

The SLFRU would like to thank the many persons who made this journey possible: Cox & Company, Le Sport BodyHoliday Spa and Resort, LUCELEC, Saint Lucia National Lottery, the

Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, Senator Fortuna Belrose, the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, Dame Pearlette Louisy, Mo and Simon Boulter, Stephanie Lambert-Montague, coaches of the SLRFU, Garner Felicien, Colvis Samuels, Jerry Charles and Renetta Frederick, present coaches, Wayne Pantor and Chantel John, Zhenya C Allain, and all friends and wellwishers.

The SLRFU president, Mr. Roger Butcher, congratulated the 12 ladies chosen to represent Saint Lucia on this momentous occasion. The team consists of the following players: Loianna Alexander, Marline Cherry, Renetta Frederick, Winnie Della Rene, Electra Marcelle (captain), Kameka President, Mary

Saint Lucia’s female rugby team and officials.

Roberts, Marissa Wilfred, Genesis Alfred, Kisha Edgar, Kera Dornelly and Shawnette St Juste.

Accompanying the team to the Cayman Islands is team

physiotherapist and Assistant Manager Zhenya C Allain, coach Wayne Pantor, and president of the SLRFU and Team Manager Roger Butcher.

THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

JUly 06, 2019

Press Release Press Release July 5th, 2019 July 5th, 2019 For immediate release For immediate release

21

NATIONAL INSURANCE CORPORATION “5(2) TOURISM

In addition to the raison d’etre as legislated, the National Insurance Fund serves a secondary but equally important role; it serves as a financial intermediary in that it mandates savings which NIC STATEMENT ON RECENT INVESTMENT can be channeled into the productive sectors of the economy. Given that tourism is the one major area whose development can have the greatest positive effect on the local economy it is NATIONAL INSURANCE CORPORATION

imperative that we emphasize investment therein. Allocation to this (and the other productive) Press Release The National Insurance Corporation’s most recent investment has generated much discussion and July 5th, 2019 Insurance Corporation’s most recent investment has generated much discussion sector(s) is indispensable in stimulating growth which is essential if the Fund is to perpetuate The National concern.

Tstatement he purpose of this all statement is to inreassure our sTotakeholders, in fund particular, ur in terms of registered contributors, and assets For concern. immediate The release and purpose of this is to reassure our stakeholders, particular, all itself. remain viable, the must grow,oboth TATEMENT O N R ECENT I NVESTMENT our contributors, thatcontributors, the NICNIC at Sall timetacts within the parameters of its Investment Policy and to support claims.

Investment in this area should influence positively the attainment of that hat the NIC at all time acts within the parameters of its Investment Policy and Guidelines The propriety, rigour, and independence of goal. It is important however that we keep in mind the nature of the Fund, being a pension Guidelines which haswhich been inheffect since 2002. as bmeen in effect since 002. mTuch he dpiscussion ropriety, The National Insurance Corporation’s ost recent nvestment has g2 enerated and rigour, and independence of our investment our investment process are such that the NIC iemerged from the financial crises of 2002 and fund, and that the assessment of all investment opportunities therein must be carried out under concern. The purpose of this statement is to reassure ahe ll our sIC takeholders, in particular, ohe ur financial crises of 2002 and 2008, the latter being the process a re s uch t hat t N e merged f rom t 2008, the latter being the most devastating since the crash of 1939, as well as the unraveling consideration of our investment objectives in order of safety, liquidity and yield. Investments contributors, that the NIC at all time acts within the parameters of its Investment Policy and Guidelines most d evastating s ince t he c rash o f 1 939, a s w ell a s t he u nraveling of the CLICO, without incurring ny ofwhich CLICO, without incurring any losses. will depend on availability of suitable and safe aopportunities. has been in effect since 2002. The propriety, rigour, and independence of our investment

NIC STATEMENT ON RECENT INVESTMENT

process are such that losses. the NIC emerged from the financial crises of 2002 and 2008, the latter being the

Investment decisions the aInvestment Investment most devastating since are rash of by 1939, s well as the uCommittee, nraveling of after CLICO, the without incurring Manager any In the event of mutually exclusive investments involving the tourism sector and any other sector the cmade losses. has assessed a proposal from an interested party. This assessment includes rigorous due or category of instrument, everything being equal, investment in the tourism sector will be

Investment decisions are themade by the Investment after the Investment Manager diligence.

When the Investment Manager is satisfied that proposal is worthy of consideration,Committee, preferred. Direct investments in the tourism sector should has not exceed 10% of total investment decisions are made the Investment Committee, the analyses Investment has a Investment recommendation isassessed a proposal from an interested party. This assessment includes rigorous due diligence. When made to theby Investment Committee, whichafter further theManager proposal. at cost. assessed a proposal from an interested party. This assessment includes rigorous due diligence. When The Committee may the Investment Manager is satisfied that the proposal is worthy of consideration, a recommendation is require further information and then it makes its recommendation to the the Investment Manager is satisfied that the proposal is worthy of consideration, a recommendation is Board, which may or may not acceptwhich the recommendation.

EXISTING COMPANIES (Tourism related) made to the Investment Committee, further analyses the proposal. The Committee may require made to the Investment Committee, which further analyses the proposal. The Committee may require further information and then it makes its recommendation to the Board, which may or may not accept Therefore, for Fixed Income Investments viz. Loans and Bonds, the factors as per (C) above, and further information and then it makes its recommendation to the Board, which may or may not accept Inthe respect of the particular investment in question, discussions and negotiations exceeded for Equities as per (F) above should first prove satisfactory. recommendation.

year and the board one gave its final approval only after the recommendation. all its concerns were addressed, the In respect the particular investment question, dto iscussions and negotiations exceeded one year and NEW COMPANIES (Tourism related) primary oneof being the security of thein investment be made.

the board gave its final approval only after all its concerns were addressed, the primary one being the The NIC should not participate in the equity of a start-up company. However, the NIC can security of the investment to be made. the particular investment in question, discussions and negotiations exceeded one year and In rfor espect of This process is followed each and every investment opportunity without fail. participate via fixed income instruments (loans, bonds) which should be appropriately secured

and which would ordinarily have first claim on the company’s assets. The NIC can contribute the board gave its final approval only after all its concerns were addressed, the primary one being the This process is followed for each and every investment opportunity without fail.

The NIC’s Investment Portfolio is valued at EC$2.3 Billion.

These investments are in the following to start-up equity of small hotels/concerns by contributing to a Venture Capital Fund or a

security of the investment to be made. assets: The NIC’s Investment Portfolio is valued at EC$2.3 Billion. These investments are in the following assets: Development

Fund, an amount not exceeding 1.5% of the total portfolio at cost which would circumscribe the This process is followed for e%ach a nd e very i nvestment o pportunity fail.

NIC’s exposurewtoithout that asset class.” of POLICY

Value Total Range

Report on the recent 11th Actuarial Valuation Review of the National Insurance Fund $ The NIC’s Investment Portfolio is valued at EC$2.3 Billion. The These investments are in the following assets: conducted by the Actuarial Services Unit of the International Labour Office (ILO) states in Loans & Fixed Income 333,605,996 14.7% 10 20%

respect of Investments - “Given the limited range of opportunities for investment in St Investment

Fixed deposits Properties Gov't Lending

Investment

Equity

236,341,437

10.4%

10 - 15%

278,631,618

12.3%

10 - 20%

485,717,362

21.4%

20 - 30%Value

149,087,271

6.6%

5 -15%

11.7%

10 - 15%

13.0%

5 - 15%

9.9%

0 - 1%

Regional Investment

Loans & Fixed266,563,636 Income

Extra-Regional Investments

294,976,416

Fixed deposits Cash on Call Accounts in Banks 224,184,016

$

Lucia, the current uncertain economic and investment environment around the world, % of POLICY and the good returns achieved so far, no change in investment policy is recommended at this stage”.

Total The same representation Range was made in the reports of the 9th and 10th Actuarial Reviews.

The mission of the NIC as embodied in its Mission Statement crafted in 1999 mandates the NIC: 333,605,996 14.7% 10 - 20% “To ensure that every St. Lucian 236,341,437 10.4% 10 -enjoys 15%social and financial protection and to assist in the

development of our nation through the efficient collection of contributions, payment of relevant benefits,12.3% prudent management10 of assets, Properties 278,631,618 - 20%use of cutting edge technology, and a cadre of highly

skilled staff.”

The above does notGov't includeLending NIC’s planned affordable low-cost housing project with a 485,717,362 21.4% 20 - 30% preliminarily cost estimate of EC$ 51 million.

The Vision Statement provides greater clarity in maintaining NIC as “An effective, transparent and financially is customer focused, provides social protection to the St. Equity 149,087,271 6.6%sound institution 5 which -15% The NIC’s authority to invest comes from the National Insurance Corporation Act and its Lucian population and plays a leading role in national development.”

Investment Policy andRegional Guidelines. Investment 266,563,636 11.7% 10 - 15% The “Cabot project” involves the development of a world class golf course, construction of a Investments 294,976,416 13.0% - 15% Section 21 of the Act Extra-Regional charges the Investment Committee with the investment of surplus monies hotel, villas, a beach club and5sale of lots. This is expected to generate employment locally as in well as provide St Lucia with additional visibility internationally.

Cash of onLand Call Accounts in Banks 224,184,016 9.9% 0 - 1%

(a) acquisition

(b) purchase or construction of Buildings The NIC’s recent investment in Cabot (St Lucia) Inc. meets the requirement of the Act, the Total 2,269,107,752 100.0% (c) Loans Investment Policy and Guidelines, and its Mission and Vision statements. In addition, the

(d) Government bonds and securities investment was rigorously assessed by the NIC’s in-house team, its Investment Committee and

(e) Shares and Debentures in bodies corporate the Board; the returns were negotiated at a rate higher than the average returns on the current portfolio and security was obtained which value is three and a half times NIC’s investment.

Total

2,269,107,752 100.0%

The Investment Policy and Guidelines and any revision to it is approved by the Investment Committee, the National Insurance Board and the Minister responsible for the NIC or social security (traditionally the Prime Minister). The following is extracted from the NIC’s Investment Policy and Guidelines. The text is identical to that of the Investment Policy and Guidelines throughout the years from the first policy approved in 2002.

The NIC is confident in its decision. The Corporation has always acted and will continue to act “for the benefit of us all” Matthew L Mathurin Director

22

sports

JUly 06, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

St Vincent and the Grenadines sweeps CARICOM 10k titles

Off and running at the start of the CARICOM 10k road race.

S

t Vincent and the Grenadines swept the male and female categories in the 14th CARICOM 10k road race in Saint Lucia last Sunday, with female runner Linda McDowald recording a hat trick of victories.

McDowald crossed the finish line in 40.40 minutes to add to earlier victories in the 12th and 13th editions, held in Guyana and Jamaica respectively. She

T

also placed second in the 11th edition in Barbados, behind Guyanese Andrea Foster.

The second- and thirdplaced runners were also a repeat of last year, with Grenada’s Kenisha Pascal crossing in 41.32 mins and Carlie Pipe of Barbados in 41.39 mins.

In the male category, the Vincentian Junior Ashton moved up from third place in

last year’s race to win in 34.22 mins, ahead of Kalique St. Jean of Antigua and Barbuda in 35.05 and Justin Hodge of Anguilla in 35.09.

Dominica, Jamaica, Suriname, Anguilla and host Saint Lucia also competed.

In a supporting 5k race for students, Tarrick Xavier of Vieux Fort Comprehensive School and Micol Popote of Gros Islet Secondary School

CARICOM Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque (centre) with first finishers in the 10k road race Vincentians Linda McDowald (left) and Junior Ashton.

took the top male positions, and Zadie St Louis of Vieux Fort Comprehensive and LauratLynn Limery of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, the female.

The event was witnessed

by CARICOM Secretary General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque. He was joined for

Vieux Fort Secondary School students Zadie St Louis (left) and Tarrick Xavier placed first in the 5k race for students.

the presentation of prizes by his Assistant Secretary General, Human and Social Development, Dr Douglas Slater; Saint Lucia’s Ambassador to CARICOM, Elma-Gene Isaac; Sports Director, Patrick Mathurin; and Saint Lucia’s CARICOM Youth Ambassadors.

The CARICOM 10k road race is held annually around the July meetings of CARICOM Heads of Government, aimed at fostering people-to-people relations while also promoting healthy living. Saint Lucia hosted this year’s Heads of Government meeting July 3-5.

SLFA scores and highlights

he Sab Sporting Facility was a hive of activity last Saturday, June 29, with nonstop pulsating and enthralling youth football as the Saint Lucia Football Association staged the finals of the Under 11 and semi-finals of the Under 13 football competitions.

Kickstarting the action was the third-place play-off of the Under 11 competition between Valley Soccer and Shamballa.

Valley Soccer quickly got into its stride with a goal by Omarian Edwin in the 1st minute of play.

Despite the exciting exchanges between both teams, no further goals were scored and the half ended 1–0.

On the resumption, Valley Soccer increased the tempo and, against the run of play, Ngozi Mathurin equalized for Shamballa. This goal seemed to spur on the players from the south as it soon became 2–1 with a Leslie Frank goal in the 30th minute of the second half.

Valley Soccer bounced back as, once again, Edwin found the back of the net four

minutes later.

Shamballa players soon found themselves on the back foot, resulting in them conceding an own goal to give Valley Soccer a 3–2 advantage.

Captain Alex Devaux, who celebrated his birthday on the day, sealed the initiative with a beautiful conversion from the penalty spot to give Valley Soccer victory with a 4–2 win.

Congratulations to both teams on the high level of football displayed.

The grand finals between Northern United and Black Panthers lived up to all expectations, with both teams throwing caution to the wind in search of victory.

Both teams had their moments of glory and opportunities but failed to capitalize on them. However, against the run of play, Kailon Flavin made the most of a goalkeeping blunder to shoot Black Panthers into the lead in the 11th minute. No further goals were scored and the half ended 1–0.

At the resumption it was a different ball game. Northern turned up the heat and, despite numerous opportunities, were initially thwarted in efforts to get the equalizer. The relentless pressure paid dividends as the prolific and consistent Traylan Henry secured the equalizer in the 28th minute.

Despite the back and forth between both teams, neither was able to get the go-ahead goal and the game ended 1–1.

It was now down to the dreaded penalty shootout which resulted in Northern prevailing 3–2. As a result, the team was crowned champion of the Saint Lucia Football Association Inc Under 11 competition.

In the first semi-final of the Under 13 competition, Northern United All Stars got the better of Black Panthers 3–2. Their goals came from Lyndon Alcindor in the 19th minute, Samies Louisson in the 25th minute and Kendrick Antoine in the 65th minute.

Scoring for Black Panthers were Cy Alcindor in the 11th

minute and Emmanie Butcher in the 30th minute.

Boosted by a hat rick by Leshaun Paul in the 15th, 41st and 58th minutes, Lancers FC inflicted a 5–0 victory over Uptown in the second semi-final. The other goals were scored by Nwaheem Temy in the 1st minute of play and Venroy Alfred in the 29th minute. The half time score was 3–0.

Lancers FC will now play Northern United All Stars in the finals, a repeat of the Northern Zone Final.

In other news, the SLFA Inc Northern Zone Under 17 football competition kicked off last Saturday. Over at the Corinth playing field, Big Players edged out GMC 1–0 with a goal by Simeon George in the 56th minute.

In another game. Lancers defeated Reduit FC 3–0.

Goals came from Daneo Caroo in the 35th minute, Dante Fitz in the 50th minute and Nathan Weeks in the 56th minute.

Down at the La Clery playing field, Valley Soccer swamped Flames FC 8–0. Nakeem Joseph scored the tournament’s first beaver trick in the 2nd, 32nd, 69th and 79th minutes. There were braces by Daniel Kennedy in the 26th and 38th minutes and Emmanuel La Force in the 65th and 75th minutes.

Playing the second game at the same venue, VSADC thumped Northern 7–2. Prolific national youth player Keegan Caul registered a beaver trick in the 24th, 47th, 63rd and 77th minutes. The other goal scorers were Rashad Eugene in the 50th and 65th minutes and Steve Thompson in the 73rd minute.

The goal scorers for Northern were Ajani Larcher in the 24th minute and Jahlil Evans in the 66th minute.

Matches continued in the SLFA Inc Northern Zone

Players with Northern United (left) and Black Panthers battle for ball possession.

Under 17 football tournament on Sunday, June 30 at the Corinth playing field. In the first game played, New Generation FC and Pioneers FC produced an exciting 2–2 draw. New Generation FC’s goals came from Levi Edward in the 29th minute and Baggio Edward in the 40th minute.

Shaquan Nelson scored a brace for Pioneers in the 37th and 47th minute.

In the second game played, B1 FC defeated Hilltop United 3–0. Goals came from Donavon Phillip in the 30th and 64th minutes and Keanu Felicien in the 49th minute.

THE STAR

CLASSIFIED 23

www.stluciastar.com

july 06, 2019

LOTS FOR SALE BABONNEAU

GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE CUSTOMS & EXCISE DEPARTMENT

AUGIER

NOTICE NO. 4 of 2019 SALE OF INTOXICATING LIQUOR Pursuant to the Liquor License Act Cap. 13.17 of the Laws of Saint Lucia, persons who offer intoxicating liquor for sale must have the relevant liquor license. Current holders of licenses must renew such licenses immediately.

The Customs and Excise Department is in the process of embarking on a compliance drive to enforce the provisions of this Act and persons found selling intoxicating liquor without the relevant licence will be prosecuted. Your compliance in this regard is therefore solicited.

For further information please contact the Export Verification Unit, Maher Centre Building, William Peter Boulevard, Castries at telephone No.4684800/1432/33 or Customs Department, Chitolie Building, Beanfield, Vieux Fort, at telephone No. 468-4900/10 or the First or Second District Court.

Please be guided accordingly. …………………………….

Anita Montoute (Mrs.) Comptroller of Customs & Excise(Ag) 28thJune 2019

For further information, Please contact:

758-716-5231

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