Ready To Fly! - Prime Minister Says HIA Project Starts in January

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The Star (St.Lucia)

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2018

READY TO FLY! www.stluciastar.com

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Prime Minister Says HIA Project Starts In January See Pages 4-5

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02 LOCAL

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DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

Lack of Witness Protection adds to Cold Case Backlog Claudia Eleibox

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n the aftermath of the IMPACS investigation, a senior police officer was warned that while he was in danger of being killed by fellow officers, he could not be guaranteed protection.

There have been a number of shooting fatalities in the last two weeks, without arrests.

One of those recently gunned down in Wilton’s Yard, it has emerged, was a crown witness in an upcoming murder trial.

This week police confirmed that

the man was indeed a police witness in two murder cases, that he had been a solid police resource. It remains conjectural the impact his death will have on other witnesses.

A recent visit by this reporter to the Major Crimes Unit revealed that witnesses seeking protection at this time can only hope to get an unofficial agreement with the Director of Public Prosecutions and Commissioner of Police, depending on the level of risk involved. In short, it seems Saint Lucia does not have a witness protection programme in place.

ACP for Crime and Intelligence,

Wayne Charlery, told me: “We depend heavily on eyewitness reports and if they are not available it would devalue the cases presented before the court. The more evidence we can present, the stronger our case.”

Said Charlery: “Of course a lot of these unsolved cases are the result of witnesses being fearful of repercussions. Lack of informants is a major reason we have such a backlog of cold cases.” Charlery is hopeful that an effective witness protection programme following the blueprint of what is currently provided by the U.S. Federal

Bureau of Investigation is somewhere in the pipeline. The Regional Security System, of which Saint Lucia is a member, is the hopeful facilitator of this future witness protection service. “There are great benefits to be derived from exploring the introduction and implementation of a witness protection programme,” Charlery said. “To work effectively it has to be regional.

Who knows we might get that federal police we’ve been dreaming of quite a while to take care of that transnational and organised crime which crosses borders.”

ACP Wayne Charlery is hopeful a witness protection programme will be established to help in the resolution of serious crime in Saint Lucia.

Airport Redevelopment Project Ready to Take Off

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he people of Saint Lucia are finally set to see the Hewanorra International Airport Redevelopment Project take off as the Government of Saint Lucia continues to deliver on its promise to expand and improve local infrastructure.

This project is essential to Saint Lucia’s overall economic growth, especially as the island continues to expand as a leader in leisure and business travel.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Growth, Job Creation and External Affairs, Allen Chastanet, explained that the government has been preparing for this project by starting the Airport Development Charge in January 2018.

In order to ensure this project starts in the New Year, the Minister for Finance on Tuesday brought a resolution before the House to guarantee a loan of US$100 million from the Export–Import Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for the Hewanorra International Airport Redevelopment Project on behalf of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA).

The Prime Minister explained that some of the

and absence of automated check-in facilities, space allocations for the Immigration services and inadequate road infrastructure to facilitate the seamless operations of ground transportation. The tower and technical block are also in need of upgrading and the current facility poses challenges in meeting security requirements.

Other issues include the inadequate seating within the departure concourse and the fact that the location of the terminal building does not allow for parking of wide bodied aircraft directly in front of the terminal.

Prime Minister Chastanet The motion was passed in the House of Parliament on Tuesday for a loan to noted, “For Saint Lucia to finance the Airport Redevelopment Project. grow it was imperative that objectives of the HIA project

The Minister of Finance to accommodate passengers this project commence," were to alleviate the congestion also explained to the House at peak times. The continued adding that the redevelopment during peak arrival time, to of Assembly the myriad of increase in passenger arrivals, of the HIA will alleviate the implement urgent investments shortcomings of the current while crucial to Saint Lucia’s many challenges which that will position SLASPA to airport, among them the economic development, has plague the airport and would take advantage of Saint Lucia's inability to handle increased placed tremendous pressure on ensure the facility can cater competitive advantage as the arrivals. the facility which suffers from for the anticipated growth ideal location for a hub for

He said, “As at the end of a myriad of design challenges in the tourism industry by regional travellers, to improve 2017, the HIA handled 715,955 which limit the facility’s ability accommodating more airlines in the earning potential of SLASPA passengers with 16,879 to meet current and future the airport space. and to expand the infrastructure aircraft movements. The HIA is market demands.”

The redevelopment of Saint Lucia and increase currently operating well beyond The airport also has several includes a new terminal the capacity of the country to its limits, with the terminal inadequacies including the building, control tower, apron, accommodate growth. building in particular straining number of check-in counters taxiway, air field and ground

lighting system, and car park and roadway. The redevelopment will also result in the introduction of modern processes and procedures in the operations of the airport.

The Minister of Finance explained the terms of the loan as follows: the loan payments shall commence after the grace period of five years has expired; with interest repaid in the amount of US$2,195,000 semi-annually during the grace period and thereafter at the six month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate plus 1.5% per annum. The loan is repayable over a period of 20 years from the date of the first disbursement on the loan inclusive of a five-year grace period.

The Government of Saint Lucia reintroduced the Airport Development Charge (ADC) of US$35 per departing passenger effective January 2018 with these funds to be used by SLASPA to repay its loan for the redevelopment of the HIA. During his presentation the Prime Minister expressed immense gratitude to the Government and People of Taiwan for their confidence in the Government of Saint Lucia.

THE STAR

Police promise to get “aggressive” with criminals Keryn Nelson

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n December 10, Police Commissioner Severin Monchery issued the following statement: “We at the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force have reviewed our plans and our strategies and from all indications it appears that we have not been able to meet some of our intended targets. As a result we are putting in place new plans; new strategies.

These strategies will be more head on, they will be more aggressive and they will be targetted.”

This declaration, he said, was in response to increasing illegal activity by criminals who seem to have declared war on the citizenry. “I want, at this point, to thank my hard-working officers for their efforts over the past month. But to those criminals out there, who it appears have declared war on our citizens and by extension the RSLPF, what I will say to you is that the RSLPF will continue to ensure the safety and security of Saint Lucians.”

The commissioner's pronouncements come at a time when the island has recorded a sharp increase in the number of robberies—many at business establishments—as well as a spate of shootings. Directly addressing those involved in criminal activity, Monchery warned: “The Criminal Code of Saint Lucia creates provisions for the level of force to be used in different circumstances and if you create the atmosphere and situation for force to be used, we will surely use it as necessary, even if we have to move to the highest level permitted by law.”

An increase in patrolling officers was also among the stated changes. “We've called back six officers from Saint Kitts,” Monchery revealed. “I've also called back officers from

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Strengthening Partnerships for Healthier, Safer Caribbean Tourism

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Police promise Saint Lucians a greater presence of officers on the streets in the coming days.

leave. This morning at least 60 police officers reported back to work. From the deputy commissioner of police down, many will be on the streets, night and day.”

In a desperate effort to curb escalating levels of violent crime in 2010, the police undertook Operation Restore Confidence. At least six individuals were fatally shot.

Although resultant inquests found the shootings were not unlawful, they were regarded by some as extra-judicial killings and contrary to a human rights treaty with the United States, at the time a major supporter, financially and otherwise, of the local police. It didn’t help that Kenny Anthony had, in opposition, claimed to have seen a police death list of “persons deemed to be criminals”. Upon returning to office Anthony initiated the now famous IMPACS investigation. A large portion of its findings were read out on TV by the prime minister who also confirmed that the US had suspended all assistance to the local police until there

had been “a credible judicial resolution”.

Said a stern-faced Monchery this week: “Notwithstanding there may be side effects of that whole IMPACS issue, police officers are being asked to act professionaly at all times and not to permit themselves to be hindered in the performance of their duties.

Once you are performing your duties within the laws of the land, there is nothing to be afraid of in terms of IMPACS or anything else.”

He went on: “I continue to say to my police officers that I want them to act professionaly at all times, respect fundamental rights and freedoms and ensure that when performing their duties they respect the law.”

At the start of 2018 the police set themselves the task of keeping the homicide rate below twenty-five. In 2017 the island recorded 60 homicides.

At time of writing the number killed this year stands at 42, the last victim being mother of two Nadia Wells of Morne DuDon, killed on Monday evening. She

was 42. So far, no arrests.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Wayne Charlery, who is responsible for crime and intelligence management, indicated at Monday's press conference, “We’ve been investigating 40 homicides, excluding one police shooting.

Thus far, we've been able to solve 17 of those cases."

Asked to define “solved”, Charlery said it referred to instances involving the arrest and charging of a suspect, and taking him before a court. The cited 17 persons processed are at this time on remand at the Bordelais Correctional Facility awaiting trial for murder.

As for Monchery, he ended his press conference with this Chritmas message: “The time has come for us to deal not only with crime on the streets and crime in the ghettos, but also with crime across Saint Lucia. So, whether you be in high office, whether you be a law enforcement officer, whether you be politician, pastor, teacher, priest, the law will apply to everyone.”

Christmas Carol Festival

he public is hereby invited to the Monchy Development Committee's 7th annual Christmas Carol Festival.

Come listen to timeless carols being sung and performed by various schools and community groups. This annual event

seeks to foster togetherness and well-being in the community of Monchy as we prepare for the celebration of Christmas.

This event will be held at the Monchy Square on Sunday, December 16, 2018 from 3:00 pm. This is a free event.

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ravel and tourism is the business of the Caribbean.

However, outbreaks of communicable diseases and other health threats have resulted in closures of hotels and cruise ports, and significant losses in revenue. These threats seriously impact the health and safety of visitors and locals, and the sustainability of Caribbean tourism.

“We are at a crossroads, a movement of strengthening collaboration to drive towards a sustainable programme for which we need everyone to be on board,” said Dr C. James Hospedales, CARPHA Executive Director. He further stated, “There is a need for an all-inclusive approach to address the health, food safety and environmental sanitation solutions to the threats impacting the sustainable tourism in the Caribbean.”

Dr Hospedales was speaking at the opening of the 2nd Regional Tourism and Health Stakeholders Workshop, hosted by CARPHA. The event was held at the Hilton Trinidad on December 6-7, 2018.

Ms. Rocio J Medina-Bolivar, Inter-American Development Bank Country Representative for Trinidad and Tobago stated that the Tourism and Health Program was funded from the Regional Public Goods initiative of the IDB. Ms. Medina-Bolivar said, “The IDB was so encouraged with the implementation and results of the THP so far, that in October this year, a Phase II of the project was approved.

This second phase will seek to improve the capacity of the participating countries to fully operationalize and sustain the implementation of the Tourism Health Information, Monitoring and Response System.”

The health of Caribbean economies is closely related to the health of its tourism industry given that the Caribbean is the most tourismdependent region in the world.

High and increasing numbers of visitors to the Caribbean increases the health, safety and security risks to both local and visitor populations.

In his feature address, the Honourable Terrance Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago said, “The health and safety of all our citizens, as well as persons who may visit on vacation, business or for other reasons, is a critical responsibility that is shared by several government and non-governmental agencies.” Minister Deyalsingh commended CARPHA, CTO and CHTA for spearheading the programme saying, “It is imperative that, as a region, we have good standing with the international population, should we desire to maintain our current tourism industry rating.”

The objectives of the workshop were to conduct a stakeholder review of the outputs, successes and challenges of Phase I of the IDB-funded THMRS programme. Participants also discussed the development of a THP Private Public Partnership/Collaboration Agreement. Additionally, the workshop sought to conduct stakeholder consultations on the activities of THP/ THMRS Phase II, focusing on sustainable implementation; and to review the THP Healthier, Safer, Destination Recognition Incentive.

CARPHA Head of Tourism and Health Program, Dr Lisa Indar underscored the THP as the first Caribbean-wide multisectoral programme, which has set a precedent for improving sustainable tourism. “There is no better time than now, as new threats to health and travel in the region emerge and in this era of real time, instant information flow, for creating mechanisms for monitoring and responding to tourism health and safety threats,” she said.

She further added, “There is need for an integrated solution focusing on monitoring and responding to travel/ tourism-related public health crises, training in food safety and environmental sanitation, health, safety and environmental sanitation (HSE) standards and partnerships.”

04 COMMENT

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DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

PM Says HIA Project Ready to Take Off Early Next Year!

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or Tuesday’s House session, I fully anticipated a massive turnout (to borrow the jargon of carnivaltime’s double-visioned, soused color commentators), with standing room only in adjacent Constitution Park. Mindful of the spittle-soaked hoopla spewed day and night over the past month by at least three call-in TV shows, I expected the Labour Party’s No-Confidence vote against Prime Minister Allen Chastanet to bring out in droves the usual overzealous placard bearers with blood in their eyes, eager to carry out, no matter the cost, whatever their leaders determined would deliver a “new prime minister

by December.”

Instead there were the usual killers of time, superfluous people, some might say, scattered around adjacent Constitution Park like dried-up leaves, doing what they’ve done for at least two generations outside the House, whether or not in session. Inside, thirty or so bodies sat in the gallery, the majority well known UWP frontliners, others dressed-up Red Zoners.

As has been the custom since the country exchanged white rule for black power, the people’s business got underway more than an hour behind schedule. The first item on the agenda was a motion in the name of the prime minister that sought parliament’s guarantee of a US$100 million loan on behalf of the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority from the Export-Import Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan), to cover the cost of modernizing Hewanorra International Airport. For decades different administrations had marked the project urgent.

Said the prime minister

government’s rejection of earlier arrangements between the International Finance Corporation (the financing arm of the World Bank) and the previous administration that would’ve given a bankappointed concessionaire full control of the refurbished airport for thirty years. The bank’s agent would collect all grace period in the amount of in his introduction: “The fees and have unquestionable US$2,195,000 and thereafter redevelopment of HIA will authority to choose how the at the six month London alleviate the many challenges airport operated, even down Inter-Bank Offered Rate plus that plague the airport and to choosing who operates ensure the facility can cater for 1.5 percent annually; loan to newsstands, restaurants, be repayable over a period of the anticipated growth in the stores and other facilities at 20 years from the date of the tourism industry.” He said his Hewanorra Airport. government had reintroduced, first disbursement on the loan

A successful local inclusive of a five-year grace effective January 2018, the entrepreneur offered me period.

Airport Development Charge, this scenario. “You have two The prime minister’s removed when the Labour Party choices. The first instance returned to office in 2011. “The nether regions had barely allows you to borrow from a touched his padded leather intention is for these funds to bank to fund a well-researched, be used by SLASPA to repay its chair at the end of his delivery potentially lucrative undertaking loan for the redevelopment of when the House opposition under your control. You collect HIA.” He identified multitudinous leader and author of the earlier your money, pay your agreed mentioned No-Confidence shortcomings that rendered commitments to your bank Motion jumped up to say that the airport in its current and keep whatever is left over. despite his acknowledgement of Your second choice: You permit circumstances relatively the project’s urgency, he would someone else full control of primitive. vote against the loan guarantee your company. He pockets

As for agreed terms: loan payments to start after a grace on which its establishment every cent of the proceeds and depended. His ambivalence period of five years; interest to out of the goodness of his heart be paid twice a year during the centered on the current hands you a monthly stipend.

You’re expected to be satisfied with the arrangement because it saved you from taking a loan in your name.”

With a wicked glint in his eye and smiling from ear to there, my friend asked: “Which position would you choose?”

He wastes no time waiting for a reply. He says: “Bank loans are just part of doing business.

While investment decisions must be well thought out, still it is a fact that too many Saint Lucians continue to believe there’s such a thing as a free lunch.”

The leader of the opposition was at Tuesday’s House session his usual articulate and measured self as he questioned the government’s decision to burden taxpayers of this country with a US$100 million loan repayment “when they found the same arrangement that could have done the exact same thing at no cost to the taxpayer and would have been completed or would have been at a high state of processing at this time.”

By the opposition leader’s measure, the government had given the impression “the loan

is coming from the government of Taiwan but the loan is from the Export-Import Bank.”

He claimed not to know the relationship between the bank and the government of Taiwan, but was “open to instruction.”

Actually, the prime minister had stated quite clearly while presenting his motion that he was seeking parliament’s guarantee for a loan from the Export-Import Bank on behalf of SLASPA.

Perhaps taking his cue from the opposition leader, the Southeast Castries MP, Mr. Guy Joseph, announced from the get-go his full support of the motion. He also thanked the government and people of Taiwan for their “intervention” that had resulted in the loan “at concessionary rates.” For the most part the MP took every opportunity to underscore the opposition’s seeming inability or reluctance when in government to implement its uninvited and unwelcome recommendations to the new administration. (Was the MP Guy Joseph preemptively dismantling the opposition’s Continued on page 5

For several years successive governments have talked about the need to modernize Hewanorra International Airport.

Will the Chastanet government finally walk the walk?

THE STAR

Continued from page 4 upcoming Motion of No Confidence against his prime minister?)

He noted that as far back as 2009 Stephenson King’s UWP administration had begun negotiations in relation to the improvement of Hewanorra.

Alas, Hurricane Tomas had in 2010 readjusted the government’s focus. One year later the Labour Party, under Kenny Anthony’s leadership, took over responsibility for Saint Lucia’s development. Four years limped by with barely a mention of HIA.

By MP Joseph’s inimitable telling: “They inherited a project

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DECEMBER 15, 2018

well on its way. Hansard will show I encouraged the then prime minister to move on with the airport. I told him: ‘You can get rid of the contractor, you can throw out everything we did. But this is a good project for Saint Lucia. I don’t care about whom you choose to see it through.’ What did he do? He removed the airport development tax that would’ve realized in excess of $130 million. His government gave up close to $200 million that could’ve paid for maybe half the cost of the project. Yet members on the other side expect this government to follow their business advice when clearly they haven’t a clue how they

handle such things?”

As if further to gaslight Kenny Anthony’s mercurial nature, the Southeast Castries MP read from an official document: “The following Cabinet conclusion is submitted for your attention: Increased service charge to facilitate the Hewanorra International Airport public-private partnership transaction.” He added: “The same government that zeroed the US$35 we were collecting does a complete about turn in 2015 and not only returns the airport service charge but also increases it from US$35 to US$55.”

While accusing the

opposition of engaging in scare tactics for selfish purpose, the MP addressed the matter of guarantees, about which, he suggested, the opposition knew quite a lot. From a copy of the 2009 Ramsahoye Report, he read out the following: “The [Kenny Anthony] government agreed to a guarantee and indemnified the agreement with the Royal Merchant Bank of Trinidad of Tobago under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago.”

Taking his eyes off the document, the MP underscored the last line he’d just read out loud: “Under the laws of Trinidad and Tobago—not under the laws of Saint Lucia. Some people cannot learn from their

own past mistakes. We are not submitting to any jurisdiction outside of Saint Lucia.” He also referred to the Ramsahoye commission’s finding that the company for whom the Anthony government had guaranteed loans had absolutely no assets and was “formed at the request of the government of Saint Lucia as a device” to deal with the payment of the amount guaranteed.

He went on, pointedly: “Mr. Speaker, some people need to learn that even when they no longer hold the highest positions in the land they still are duty-bound to respect the integrity of the

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offices they once held. It’s not good enough to turn around when you are no longer in office, to turn around and spit on every principle you earlier esteemed just for the sake of selfish convenience.”

The motion passed with every single member of the 6-man opposition predictably voting against it. Work on the airport is scheduled to begin in January next year.

Meanwhile it remains unclear why the Kenny Anthony administration, having signed an agreement with the IFC, never started modernization work on the acknowledged wholly inadequate Hewanorra International Airport.

Cuban Ambassador Honoured as “very dear friend of Saint Lucia”

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special Investiture ceremony was held on Thursday December 6, 2018 at the Government House of Saint Lucia with the recipient of the honour being the Ambassador Extraordinary of the Republic of Cuba to Saint Lucia.

His Excellency Sir Emmanuel Neville Cenac, Governor General of Saint Lucia, on the advice of the Prime Minister, bestowed on His Excellency Jorge Francisco Soberon Luis, the Saint Lucia Medal of Honour (Gold) of the Order of Saint Lucia.

This honour is for Ambassador Luis’ significant contribution to Saint Lucia’s development efforts and was done in accordance with the provisions of the National Honours and Award Act.

In attendance was Prime Minister Honourable Allen Chastanet, President of the Senate Jeannine GiraudyMcIntyre, Speaker of the House Andy Daniel, Leader of the Opposition Honourable Philip J Pierre, government ministers and members of the diplomatic corps.

Minister with responsibility for External Affairs Hon. Sarah Flood-Beaubrun in her remarks expressed: “It goes without saying that this awardee must truly be a Saint Lucian at heart.”

She continued: “The Cuban diplomat says, ‘I serve you because I truly understand your needs.’ This is exemplified in summary by the tremendous work ethic of the Cuban diplomat, the sincerity, the thoroughness, the genuine love and interest that emanates from your work and, of course, your record of achievement.

“You have left your mark

Left to right: PM Hon Allen Chastanet with Ambassador Soberon and Opposition Leader Philip J Pierre.

in Saint Lucia and we have the confidence that you will be an ambassador to Saint Lucia wherever you may go.”

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet paid an emotional tribute to Ambassador Luis, describing the Ambassador

as a very dear friend of Saint Lucia.

Said the Prime Minister: “The Ambassador is not just

your ordinary ambassador, he is truly a friend to Saint Lucia and I am indeed pleased to also refer to him and his family as my friends.”

In outlining some of the engagements between Cuba and Saint Lucia under Ambassador Luis’ tenure, Prime Minister Chastanet noted the Ambassador’s passion on the subject of Climate Change.

“During his tenure here, Cuba has worked closely with the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) as it relates to preparation and mitigating natural disasters.”

Cuba’s continued assistance in the areas of health, sports, agriculture, infrastructure and education, was also noted.

A truly appreciative

Ambassador later dedicated the award to the people of Cuba.

“Today the friendship between Cuba and Saint Lucia reaches a new peak. Cuba works for peace and solidarity amongst our people. We consider our contribution as part of the solutions to the unique challenges of our region as not only our duty but a source of our happiness. We are guided by the thoughts of the national hero of Cuba José Martí who said, ‘Doing is the best way to saying.’

We aspire that the word Cuba be synonymous with friendship, solidarity and fraternity in every Saint Lucian home,” said the Ambassador.

His Excellency Jorge Francisco Soberon Luis’ tenure, which began here on December 11th, 2014, comes to an end later this month.

DIGICEL SPREADS CHEER WITH ITS ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF FUN

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igicel’s Festival of Fun was a day to remember for hundreds of persons with special needs across Saint Lucia, as the complete communications and entertainment company hosted the inclusive event for the seventh consecutive year.

The event, which is geared at bringing smiles to persons with special needs across the country, was this year held at the Beausejour Indoor Facility and saw a large turnout from a number of institutions, including the Lady Gordon Opportunity Centre, Dennery Child Development Centre, the Special Education Centre Vieux Fort, Soufriere Special Education Rehabilitation Centre, Dunnottar School, Educare Learning Centre, St. Lucia Blind

Welfare Association, Autism Resource Centre and SDA Academy all coming together for a day of fun, laughter, food and games.

Additionally, the children were pleasantly surprised by the appearance of a number of Disney mascots including Elsa and Olaf from Frozen, along with Bugs Bunny, Peppa Pig, Transformers and Santa and Mrs. Claus, among others. Another highlight of the day was the presentation of personalised gifts to the hundreds in attendance by the Digicel team.

Digicel’s Call Centre Manager, Coletta McDonald, in her address, expressed the company’s excitement at hosting the event year after year. “Each year, we get to

Children enjoyed creative face painting at the Festival of Fun.

bring joy to so many people, including this special community, and the entire team at Digicel looks forward to this annual event. We’d like to thank the Ministry of Education, the Sacred Foundation and all of our other partners who help us make this festival happen year after year.”

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Givers are usually Happier than Receivers!

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young person with Saint Lucian connections landed a temporary job at a New York hospital. As the festive season approached, she was asked to participate in her department’s ritual of randomly selecting a wish list submitted by underprivileged children. The young worker selected three separate wish lists, instead of the one as directed. One child asked for a cell phone, another for a train set and the third, a girl, asked for a book. The kids were three and four years old.

Each received their wish but the little girl was given four ageappropriate books—three more than requested.

There are no hard and fast rules by which to measure how the children felt after they had sent off their wish list, or when they received their gifts. We may nevertheless imagine how each little heart was filled with joy upon the receipt of their

Christmas wish. That young employee’s action makes us think more deeply about the art of giving. Giving recalls at least two beneficiaries: the recipient and the donor. Who benefits more is conjectural; the donor is happy because she has fulfilled a need and considers what she did a blessing. The recipient is also happy that their wish was delivered, albeit by a total stranger.

These two aspects to giving go further: the material thing that is given often loses its value over time, and may be forgotten. But the happiness the three young New Yorkers felt cannot easily be forgotten.

Chances are they will in due course look forward to making another feel as they had felt upon receiving their surprise Christmas gifts. Meanwhile, the donor’s spirit is strengthened; she feels less need for material things as she reflects on the

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT SAINT LUCIA

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE

CLAIM NO. SLUHCV2008/0871 BETWEEN:

FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK (BARBADOS) LIMITED Claimant and CURTIS MARIUS Defendant TO:

CURTIS MARIUS whose last known address was Bocage, Castries, Saint Lucia

NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE that the Judgment Creditor FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK (BARBADOS) LIMITED has filed an Application in the High Court of Justice, Saint Lucia, to Fix an Upset Price for the sale of the immovable property owned by you and situate at Monchy in the Registration Quarter of Dauphin and registered as Parcel Number 1452B 289.

three children. Her personal experiences will teach her that people who habitually give, learn to do with less, and are often happier than those who are grasping and selfish.

The lesson from that young worker in New York is a timely reminder that it is more blessed

hams and other goodies at Christmas, is this a quid pro quo or payback?. Are such ‘gifts’ to be used for a political purpose and is this another form of corruption; not a genuine Christmas gift?

Regardless of the answer, the point remains that such

minister did?

Criminals force the rest of us to re-think the real meaning of Christmas, and what needs to be inculcated in the population.

Putting the central message of ‘Christ-made-manifest’ in its proper perspective, may I suggest that the best gift at

our friends and country.

We ought also to learn to look more kindly at people we do not know, and may not like, for whatever reason. People can change! Change is the only constant in life. Take a moment to be alone and to find fortitude and strength to help cope with

to give than to receive. That young worker went beyond what her department had asked of her and made three little children happy. I feel certain that there are young people in Saint Lucia who would do the same in similar circumstances.

At Christmas the media is filled with the efforts of corporate citizens bringing cheer to customers and their families. Increasingly, foreign companies (and countries too), help children and parents enjoy this time of year. In the rush to cash-in on gift-giving, one ought to guard against an emerging pattern that looks more and more as payback for favours received. For example, when a person or a company forgiven thousands of dollars in back taxes or NIC payments, turns and offers a Member of Parliament hundreds of

large donations are hidden in plain view while using the spirit of the gift-giving season to defraud taxpayers. One ought therefore not to drop his or her guard at Christmas, but instead, be on the lookout for those who give with the right hand and take more with the grasping left. The saying ‘Tom drunk but Tom no fool’ should guide our every thought, particularly at this time of year.

The police have warned that criminals lurk everywhere.

Many using the gift-giving season to help themselves into homes and business places while exiting with ‘gifts’ and leaving pain and suffering behind them. Nothing of value is spared. What message can the police or government send?

Shall they beg criminals to give the people a break to enjoy Christmas, as a former prime

Christmas is taking control of our lives, rejecting greed and gluttony, while giving what we can, expecting nothing in return, remembering the real reason for the season.

To give what we can and to guard against excesses is the best example we can set our children and the youth. This is not intended as an unhappy kill-joy Christmas agenda. Far from it! What is intended is for the obese, the alcoholic and those generally out of control, to allow Prudence to direct them; Temperance to chasten them; Fortitude to support them; and Justice to guide them.

Maintain discipline and hold-on to tried and tested virtues, while taking time to praise your God, however you perceive him.

This Christmas, these are the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves, our families and to

inevitable challenges in the New Year. Better to prepare and anticipate change than to pretend that it will not show up.

Read a book over the holidays. Try to write or speak kind words to or about someone you may have hurt in the past.

You may be surprised how this gesture can change your life and that of another. Read and rediscover the wonderful power of the imagination and how the printed word can change your perception. The universal reach of the human imagination may still be the greatest gift we discover, in a book.

Have a blessed Christmas dear reader, and may the New Year bring the benefits of rewarding change wherever you may be, and whatever happiness you seek.

To give what we can and to guard against excesses is the best example we can set our children and the youth.

History Made! Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Passes Medicinal Marijuana Bill

The Application will come on for hearing at the High Court of Justice, La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries on Wednesday the 27th day of February, 2019 at 9:00 am.

AND THAT pursuant to CPR 2000 Part 5.13 service of the said Application is effected on you by advertisements of this NOTICE in two (2) consecutive issues of a local Newspaper circulating in Saint Lucia and two (2) consecutive issues of the official Gazette of Saint Lucia. The said Application and Affidavit in Support of the Application can be viewed and copies thereof can be obtained at the Court Office of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, High Court of Justice, Jeremie Street, Castries.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to attend the hearing the Application will be heard and an Order made in your absence.

Dated this 27th day of November, 2018 PETER I. FOSTER & ASSOCIATES per.....................................................

Peter A.H. Marshall Legal Practitioners for the Claimant Presented for filing by: Peter I. Foster & Associates, Legal Practitioners for the Claimant, whose address for service is: Chambers, Robin Kelton Building, Choc Bay, Castries, St. Lucia. West Indies. Tel. No.: 758 453-1100, Fax No.: 758 452-4940, E-mail: contact@fosters.law The Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Tel. No. 758 4687500, Fax No. 758 468-7543. The Office is open between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Monday to Thursday and between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Friday except public holidays. E-mail stluhco@eccourts.org.

---Peter Josie

I

n a first, likely to impact the North American and Canadian medicinal marijuana industry, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has made history as the first OECS Member State to decriminalize for medical purposes and scientific research, the production of the coveted crop under a tightly controlled framework.

Speaking from SVG, Minister for Agriculture The Hon. Saboto Ceaser said the

passing of the Bill in Parliament on 11th December signified the Caribbean island was now positioned to become a globally leading medicinal cannabis hub, not only in terms of high quality production, but research.

“The planning of this innovative industry has been carefully conducted over a long period of time in close consultation with the agricultural sector and many different stakeholders to reach the level of maturity we see

today.

“There is broad recognition and buy-in of the economic benefits this tightly controlled and regulated industry is expected to bring in terms of direct employment, the creation of support industries and foreign investment.

“SVG is unique in that our growing conditions are suited to producing the highest quality grade medicinal cannabis available on the global market

and this is recognized with the increase in investor sentiment and inquiries we are receiving both regionally and abroad “ said Minister Caesar.

Traditional cultivators, stakeholders and others have joined the government in celebrating the passing of the Bill as the government now moves to direct its focus toward implemention of the legal framework for the production of medicinal marijuana.

THE STAR

07

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DECEMBER 15, 2018

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DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

Missing robbery report reappears!

L

ast weekend’s STAR featured a story on the robbery of a visitor to Saint Lucia. The 23-year-old male, a Vincentian national, was robbed of $300 in cash and his cell phone—worth roughly EC$3,000. During his stay here, 16-18 August, Cenus Hinds stayed at a hotel in Rodney Bay, Gros Islet. A representative from the hotel confirmed that after being robbed at knifepoint by four men on his second day here, Mr. Hinds was transported by one of the resort’s drivers to make a report at the Gros Islet police station. While at the station, Hinds told the STAR, he spoke with police officer Camron Laure. In the ensuing weeks, Mr. Hinds dialogued with the officer and provided him

with information that included screenshots of his phone which someone had put up for sale on Facebook. He was taken off guard when all communication with Laure ended in November.

Last week the police indicated there was “nothing on record” on the Hinds robbery at the Gros Islet station. Officer Laure could not recall the matter. But on Wednesday this week the police press office confirmed that a report was indeed made, and that officer Laure now recalled the situation. The press office also revealed that certain individuals had been questioned but so far no charges brought.

Mr. Hinds says he has not been directly informed of these updates: “I’m actually

happy to hear this. I’m pretty disappointed that I wasn’t told so directly by the officer, but I’m happy to hear some progress is being made. At least in my mind I know the investigation isn’t stagnant.”

He has given up on getting his phone back: “I gave them a lot of information before making this story public. If the person with the phone read the story, they could have done a number of things to cover his tracks, including destroying the phone.

At this point, I’d really like to see someone charged and some kind of justice be given, including at the very least, having them pay the cost of the stolen phone.”

---Joshua St. Aimee

Notice Change in Closing Hours Please be advised that on Tuesday 18th December, 2018 our branches will close as follows: Castries and Rodney Bay 1:00pm Vieux Fort 12:30pm Normal working hours will resume on Wednesday 19th December, 2018.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused. * *Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under licence.

A robbery victim is hopeful that the RSLPF will bring his perpetrators to justice.

Kimberly De Leon murder investigation continues despite lab closure!

T

he investigation into the shooting death of 42-year-old Kimberly De Leon continues. Police Commissioner Severin Monchery has given the assurance that the investigation into the death of mother of two Kimberly De Leon is proceeding. At a press conference on Monday he offer this update: “We collected certain items that have been sent for analysis. Initially we had some difficulty because our own forensic science laboratory is at the moment not operational. We sent some samples to Saint Kitts. Just this morning I got a call that the analysis has completed. Now we will send an officer to Saint Kitts to collect the results.”

On October 29 De Leon was shot in the head at her residence in Chef Harry Drive at Morne Fortune, Castries. To date there have been no related arrests, but widespread speculation about the killer’s identity. Monchery says the force is trying to discover ways around the lab’s closure: “I just returned from Miami where I attended the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police and now we will be getting some assistance from Trinidad in relation to some other items that need to be analyzed. That’s all there is to say on the matter at this time.”

Saint Lucia’s only Forensic Science Laboratory was “partially opened” in February of last year after it was shut in 2015 so as to undertake remedial work on the building. While we were unable to reach lab Director Fernanda Henry, reportedly on maternity leave until December 17, the prime minister’s senior communications officer, Nicole McDonald said: “We have had to close the lab due to inherited health and safety concerns. There’s an issue with mould. The building also has had some

Kimberly De Leon was found dead from a bullet to her head at her home on Monday, October 29, 2018.

structural problems for quite some time.” The lab has been shut since October.

By McDonald’s telling: “A contractor has been secured and we are hoping to have the lab reopened very early in 2019. There are committed staff at the laboratory that are passionate about assisting the authorities in their investigations. But right now, it is of vital importance to address the associated health and safety issues and to get the facility opened as quickly as possible.”

--- KN

THE STAR

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DECEMBER 15, 2018

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DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

In Constitution Park it’s Monkey See Monkey Do!

O

n Tuesday most of the regular Constitution Park layabouts evidently had better places to go, more important things to do, than hang around the House. But there were those who, for as long as I’ve been alive, have been park fixtures, come rain or come shine. I saw no angry faces, no angry placards. No one mentioned the SLP promise of a new prime minister before Christmas. Maybe they’d simply stopped believing, period. Of course, one or two would not let this reporter enter the House without a word or two.

There was, for example, a Mr. Peter Joseph who, by his own account, woke up on a morning in December 2015 and, just like that, vowed to cancel his allegiance to the Saint Lucia Labour Party. Instead he started an aggressive campaign for now Prime Minister Allen Chastanet. He claimed that when Kenny Anthony still ruled the roost the order was given

In Constitution Park anything goes—even sleeping with the enemy when circumstances demand! “not to give Joseph any work”.

His once faithful campaign buddy, Yellow Monkey, had experienced his own change

Another week, another child raped!

I

Another young child's life has been dramatically impacted.

n August this year the STAR reported on the shocking rape and impregnation of a 12-year old, allegedly by her mother’s boyfriend. Inexplicably the suspect escaped police custody but was found and has since been on remand at Bordelais.

This week there was another case of sexual molestation of a seven-year-old.

Details are at this time sketchy but indications are that the child was raped after leaving her home for a short while. The man allegedly responsible is well known to the victim’s family— and is reportedly a relative of the man earlier cited.

He was arrested on 6th December following a report on November 24. On Monday he was remanded to the Bordelais

Correctional Facility to await trial on a date not specified.

I spoke to an elderly member of the victim’s family who said she had not been able to eat for days after the incident. One person from her community, also a mother and family friend, was visibly affected by what had happened.

"If she was my child, I would be the one in prison after I was finished with him." The young victim lives with her mother, and several prearranged meetings with her failed to materialize.

In another case involving a minor, a man from the community of Des Barras was arrested in November and charged with buggery and gross indecency. He has since been released on $20,000 bail.

of heart. Now he comes to Constitution Park mainly to remind the UWP that “almost three years on they still have

D

not fulfilled their election promises”. Said Yellow Monkey: “They promised aged protected, sick nourished, infants cared

for and the hungry be fed.” He showed me a video of himself hopping about in a yellow cape.

“But they come and break down my stalls instead.”

He was referring to Mayor Francis’ clean-up campaign earlier this year. Yellow Monkey’s fellow Constitution Park regular, Carrington Compton, contradicted him: “Peterson Francis and Stephenson King doing the best work in the country.” He assured all in attendance that if he lived to be a hundred more years he would not see the government carrying out its announced demolition programme. “They would never touch that building,” said Carrington Compton, indicating the old courthouse. As for Mr. Macka-Me, all he offered was: “This is the worst holiday season ever and it’s all thanks to Allen Chastanet.”

Over and over someone shouted down a neigbour: “Is pappyshow you talking

dere.” Some used to be close friends but politics had broken their bonds. Now they can barely agree to share the same Constitution Park air. The regular Constitution Park prophets disagreed on the future. One predicted, “This government will be the downfall of the country.” But I was pulled away by other agents of the Almighty who warned me: “Don’t listen to anything that man saying. He speakin’ for Satan.”

I discovered that none of the folks outside the House had the slightest idea what was down for discussion on Tuesday. None of them actually entered the parliament building, where honourable gentlemen behaved toward one another in the style of the permanent residents of Constitution Park.

---C.E.

IMPACT JUSTICE PROTOCOLS DISTRIBUTED TO STAKEHOLDERS

uring 2018 the Canadian Government-funded Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice) Project launched two protocol series, one entitled: IMPACT Justice Protocol Series: Working with Children in the Eastern Caribbean Justice System and the other entitled: IMPACT Justice Protocol Series: Working with Persons with Disabilities in the Eastern Caribbean Justice System.

Both series set out a number of guidelines that constitute specific instructions, consistent with international best practices and standards, designed to guide and regulate the interactions between children and persons with disabilities who come into contact with the justice system in the Eastern Caribbean and the following stakeholders: • Defence Counsel (Booklet No. 1) • Education Officers (Booklet No. 2) • Judicial Officers (Booklet No. 3) • The Police (Booklet No. 4) • Prosecutors (Booklet No. 5) • Social Workers, Probation Officers and Childcare Board Officers (Booklet No. 6)

• Staff at detention centres/ residential facilities (Booklet No. 7); and • Staff employed at NGOs that work with children/ persons with disabilities (Booklet No. 8).

On October 25th, 2018, Professor Velma Newton, Regional Project Director of the IMPACT Justice Project officially presented copies of the protocols to Her Ladyship, The Honourable Dame Janice Periera, DBE, Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court at a special ceremony at the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Sub-Office, Renham Building, William Peter Boulevard Castries, Saint Lucia.

This ceremony was attended by Justices of Appeal, High Court Judges, and the High Court Master of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court as well as other members of the legal community.

In her remarks at the ceremony, Professor Newton stated that the protocols represent an ongoing commitment by IMPACT Justice to engender the principles of integrity, excellence, accountability and professionalism in dealings with persons with disabilities who come into contact with

The Protocols relate to children and persons with disabilities.

the justice system. She also noted that although the protocols do not have force of law, to be effective, all stakeholders should endeavour to do their utmost to adhere to the guidelines and directions prescribed therein, as, after all, the guidelines and directions represent international standards and best practices.

Copies of both Protocol Series are currently being distributed by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court to various stakeholders across the OECS, and IMPACT Justice has commenced distribution of the Protocols for children to the Faculty of Law Library of the

University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, as well as to Ministries of Education, the Honourable Chief Justices and Commissioners of Police of Barbados, Belize, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago, as the international conventions on which they are based are applicable throughout the region.

Copies of both protocol series have also been uploaded to the IMPACT Justice website and can be accessed via the link caribbeanimpact.org/ website/media-centre/

It is hoped that these protocols will be an invaluable resource for all stakeholders.

THE STAR

11

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december 15, 2018

Abandoned Property for CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank St. Lucia as at 31 October, 2018

In accordance with Section 61 of the Banking Act we publish details of property which has been classified as abandoned. Account holders can claim ownership should they visit any of the branches of the bank with some means of identification.

SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES

NAME

SAFETY DEPOSIT BOX NO

LAST KNOWN ADDRESS

DATE OF LAST CORRESPONDENCE/ TRANSACTION/ ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY

VALUE EC$

MISC.

UNKNOWN

DAVID ALEXANDER

115

CECILIA CHARLES/SIMONETTE SEALY

29

MARCHAND RD, CASTRIES

JAN 2012

MISC.

UNKNOWN

CLEMENT CHARLES

56

P.O. BOX 305, CASTRIES

JAN 2012

MISC.

UNKNOWN

VERA ROSE CHARLES/FRANCIS SPRINGER

17

P.O. BOX 1537, CASTRIES

JAN 2016

MISC.

UNKNOWN

HARDAI/DEEPA/MACHADEO GIRDARI

149

P.O. BOX 222, V/FORT

JAN 2016

MISC.

UNKNOWN

DAYAL/MAYA MAHTANI

02

P.O. BOX 1000, THE MORNE, CASTRIES

JAN 2014

MISC.

UNKNOWN

LUCIANA MATTY/S ANTHONY

19

UNION, CASTRIES

JAN 2013

MISC.

UNKNOWN

CHRISTINE/DESMOND SEALY

156

DARLING RD CASTRIES

JAN 2016

MISC.

UNKNOWN

AUGUSTIN SEXTIUS

21

BEXON, CASTRIES

JAN 2013

MISC.

UNKNOWN

KATHLEEN/JACK TAMEN

167

320 W 76TH STREET, NEW YORK NY 10023 USA

JAN 2014

MISC.

UNKNOWN

JAN 2014

MISC.

UNKNOWN

JOHN E THOMAS

190

55 GOLF PARK, CAP ESTATE, GROS ISLET

RODNEY DIDIER

298

35 ORCHARD PARK, REDUIT, GROS ISLET

MISC.

UNKNOWN

ADRIAN COULSON

267

C/O SHOP RITE, BRAZIL STREET, CASTRIES

MISC.

UNKNOWN

247

P.O. BOX 1004, CASTRIES

MISC.

UNKNOWN

1

P.O. BOX 784, CASTRIES

MISC.

UNKNOWN

GLEN WILLAMS

140

CEDAR HEIGHTS, V/FORT

JAN 2007

MISC.

UNKNOWN

ERNIE A NANTON

131

WESTHALL GROUP V/FORT

JUN 2007

MISC.

UNKNOWN

TIMOTHY OR LORAINE MOFFAT RANDOLPH KHAN

Please note that should the subject property not be claimed within 90 days - funds will be transferred to the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

12

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december 15, 2018 THE STAR

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THE STAR

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december 15, 2018

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Prices are correct at the time of going to print. Courts reserves the right to subsequently change prices without notice. Offers available while stocks last. All finance terms are subject to credit approval. Weekly prices are based on a Gold 36 months repayment plan. 3 to 36 month credit plans available. See in-store for details.

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december 15, 2018 THE STAR

THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

DECEMBER 15, 2018

COMMENT 15

MOTOR CYCLE STOCK 40 VICU 8124170 PRINCE NELSON 1 MBK-STUNT EXTREME FUN M.CYCLE VG5SA95000101490 41 VICU 8124170 unknown AS PARTS M.CYCLE PD 419 1 NLSU 2625190 FABIAN POLEON BARDNI - 1 GOLD/BLACK 42 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 MBK BLK YAMAHA M.CYCLE VG5SA082000176086 HONDA NX 250-PC 2761 MD21-5001998 2 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLACK HONDA CBF-2007 MOTOR CYCLE 43 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 PEUGEOT ELYST M.CYCLE N/S 44 VICU 8124170 KELLY CHARLES 1 BLK PEUGEOT PD 6404 M. CYCLE

ZDCPC38E05F06631 3 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 ORANGE/BLACK HONDA-1992 VGAL1AABA00006467 45 VICU 8124170 SELERIUS MARTELLY 1 NAVY BLUE -PD 773 EVT 1000 M.CYCLE RD02-5504103 ZD4PS00001S01491 4 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 KT2 660-2007 MOTOR CYCLE 3YF-008071 3TB 5 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 SH125-2009 MOTOR CYCLE 46 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 YAMAHA MOTOR CYCLE 2905 47 VICU 8124170 GARY ALEXANDER 1 BLKSUZUKI 6440RN M.CYCLE

ZDCFC23A09F001406 JS1SP46A000502148 6 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 ADDRESS V10 SILVER/GREEY MOTOR CYCLE 48 VICU 8124170 KIM ISIDORE 1 MBK YAMAHA M.CYCLE LPR550220000109108

BD-CS11A -PB 6976-ZUKI 7 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 BLACK HONDA 1999 MODEL MOTOR CYCLE 49 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 CAGIVA 125 M.CYCLE -1998-PE 1299 CA810A007732

ZD4MD0000XS0668830 8 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 BLUE 1999 MODEL MOTOR CYCLE 50 VICU 8124170 GARY ALEXANDER 1 RALLY TOURINGHON 600V OLIVE GREEN M.CYCLE PD065505977

VTMRD09A0XE220042 51 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 GOLD MOTOR CYCLE -PB 4517 9 TTRU 4820401 unknown NO MARKS MOTOR CYCLE N/S 10 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 BLACK TYPHON MOTOR CYCLE LBXTC1PE67X030024 52 VICU 8124170 MARKIN MARQUIS 1 HONDA MOTOR CYCLE-PG 501

BMC48100000031 11 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 GS 24 RED MOTOR CYCLE ZDCJF07A03F070297 53 VICU 8124170 CLAYTUS GEORGE 1 RD/SILVER YAMAHA -PG 3409 -BK MOTOR CYCLE

L4BBSDA32510489958 12 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 RS24 GREEN MOTOR CYCLE- PC 6056 VG5SA095000025901 54 VICU 8124170 KERRY EDWARDS 1 YAMAHA MOTOR CYCLE JYA4FBA08VA046473

VG5SA095000017479 55 VICU 8124170 BRANDON YARDE 1 BLK MOTOR CYCLE PB 63 VGDE1ACFA00143693 13 TTRU 4820401 CLETUS JN BAPTISTE 1 SILVER HONDA MOTOR CYCLE56 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLK MOTOR CYCLE PC 1730 PEUGEOT LUDIX 11 2003-PA491 ME4JFE11AO38011828 VGAL1AA00008244 14 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 BLACK DTR MOTOR 57 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLK CBX 250 MOTOR CYCLE- HONDA 1982- YE/RD CYCLE-2005-PG 5492 VTLDEO62000008263 JH2MC1203HR000352 15 TTRU 4820401 CLETUS JN BAPTISTE 1 BLACK TRANSALP 600 58 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLK HONDA XL6001X-PE8259 PD06-5505074 M.CYCLE-1989-PC 612 PDPD06008602 16 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 BLACK YUMBO MOTOR CYCLE 59 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 KAWASKI LE 650 2008 MOTOR CYCLE JKALE650AAA023300 LFFWJT6C661010 VGAL1AABA00006681 17 TTRU 4820401 CLETUS JN BAPTISTE 1 BLK HONDA TRANSALP-1989 60 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 PEUGEOT LUDIX GREEN 61 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 BLK MBK EW 50 STRUT MOTOR CYCLE PD065208332 VG5SA0920012055667 18 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 MOTOR CYCLE L4BBUEA3351046359 62 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 BLK /ORANGE PEUGET LUCH RS 12 M.CYCLE 19 TTRU 4820401 LARIAN SWANSON 1 PURPLE/BLK HONDA 3JB-114333 20 TTRU 4820401 CLETUS JN BAPTISTE 1 YELLOW MOTOR CYCLE -550CC-9571 VGAL1ACFA00160005 63 NLSU 2625190 KELLY CHARLES 1 MBK BLACK MOTOR CYCLE PB1757 JS1GN71L6B2106438 21 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 GS F650 BMW BLK M. CYCLE-2006 VG5SA0400000000367 64 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 SUPER CLUB MOTOR CYCLE YAMAHA CS50Z 608 WB10175A762N86995 22 TTRU 4820401 CLETUS JN BAPTISTE 1 BLUE NINJA 750 M.CYCLE- PE 3324-2000 5RW-E4610 65 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 SP FLIGHT2 RD MOTOR CYCLE JKAZ750FFA008329 23 TTRU 4820401 LARIAN SWANSON 1 BLK SUZUKI /650 M. CYCLE-4575 VGASABL050310562 66 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 MBK SILVER MOTOR CYCLE YAMAHA - TA 2257 JS1P46A000502740 24 TTRU 4820401 SHEFFER LEONCE 1BLK HONDA M.CYCLE XL1000VX-1999 B103-103882 67 NSLU 400303 NADIEGE SUFFREN 1 WHITE KGBE1 MOTOR CYCLE-PE 1208 JH2SD01A7XM003 25 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1BLUE BURGMAN SUZUKI VTMJC32A2AE440222 68 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 N. BLUE TRANSALP M.CYCLE HONDA-XRV750

M.CYCLE-2003-125 CC VTTBP111100123989 RD07-22000669 26 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 PAIOLI M.CYCLE N/S 69 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 BLUE HONDA NX 650 M.CYCLE RD02-5606398 27 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 TENERE 600 WH/RD M.CYCLE-1987 70 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 SILVER MOTOR CYCLE PC 286 1VJ-012005 28 AKLU2015615 LORDON 1 SILVER CG 125ED HONDA -2004 ZDOP026A0VF20000378 71 NSLU 400303 TREVOR FRANCIS 1 SILVER/BLK HONDA TRANSALP -PD8298- 2005 9C2JC30A04R405856 29 AKLU2015615 DANNY 1 BLK YAMAHA 2003 SLIDER M.CYCLE-50CC VTMRD11A05E23021-XL650 72 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 RD TDM TWIN 850 -2002 M -PB 3142 M.CYCLE VG5SAO95000031195 30 AKLU2015615 K EN LOUIS 1 BLK PEUGEOT LUDIX 11-2007 M.CYCLE JYA4TX0000075683 73 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 PEUGEOT -M.CYCLE- DARK GREEN-PB 5121 VGALIACFA00143777 1173516700 31 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 GR/YELLOW MOTOR CYCLE-YAMAHA 74 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 BLK MOTOR CYCLE -PB 1757 VG5SA09500001072 55V-0655003 75 NSLU 400303 GARY ALEXANDER 1 BLK/GRY 690 PRESTIGE SM MOTOR CYCLE 32 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 RD YAMAHA 250 M.CYCLE VBLIS4027M7096661 12V -052474 33 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 RD SUZUKI 125 CC M.CYCLE 76 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 HONDA SUPER CUB 90 M.CYCLE HA02E-1994014 77 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 SUZUKI KYMCO-RG 740- GREEN LC6TCJE1040093989 34 AKLU2015615 unknown 1 BLK YAMAHA PE 635 M.CYCLE-125 CC RFBSF20G112000467 78 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 PEUGEOT MOTOR CYCLE NS LPRSE082005S145 79 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 SILVER/BLK MOTOR CYCLE-PG 981 35 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLK PEUGEOT LUDIX M.CYCLE-PD 8076 VTMJD18A0WE102050 N/S 80 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 PNK HONDA TRASALP XL650 M.CYCLE -PB809 36 VICU 8124170 CLAYTUS GEORGE 1 BLK YAMAHA PG 3148 VG5SA095000022004 37 VICU 8124170 GEORGE ALEXANDER 1 SFV 650 BLK/SILVER GLADIUS-2009-PE 409 VTMRDHA03F210488 81 NSLU 400303 unknown 1 BLK KAWASKI MOTOR CYCLE -PC 4727 JS1CX2111000101095 38 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 BLK+BLATER PEUGEOT 2008 M.CYCLE 101-015821 82 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 GILERA RED/WHITE/BLACK PG 9746 ZAPM43 VGAL1ACFA000180679 39 VICU 8124170 unknown 1 YAMAHA SLIDERM. CYCLE 83 TTRU 4820401 unknown 1 SUZUKI 650 ORANGE / BLACK JS1AC111200106281 VG5SA095000033214 ITEM No. CONTAINER #

IMPORTERS NAME

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CHASSIS #

16 LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

Saint Lucia's 40th Anniversary of Independence Celebrations Launched at the Festival of Lights

Is he a little camera shy?

Government officials and reigning Carnival Queen about to "power up" the Festival of Lights.

Singer Michael Robinson never disappoints!

Wednesday's launch was an explosive one with traditional pastimes.

The Festival of Lights is a family Christmas event.

U

nder the festive lights at Sir Derek Walcott Square, the Chair of the Independence Committee and President of the Senate, Jeannine GiraudyMcIntyre officially launched the Saint Lucian 40th Anniversary of Independence celebrations with a launch song and yearlong calendar of events. The anniversary will be marked under the theme: All In Our Journey, Our Future.

The addition of the launch of the calendar of activities to mark the start of our 40th Anniversary of Independence was well received. As our nation celebrated the feast of our patron saint St. Lucy with the spectacular showing at the Lantern Parade and Festival of Lights, the announcement of the official start

of 40th Independence Anniversary celebrations starting December 13 for a year, added to the festive mood.

According to GiraudyMcIntyre, “We mark this historic milestone in the life of our proud young nation with a calendar of events lasting one full year . . . a year of praise and thanksgiving, a year of taking pride in our nation’s many achievements, a year of remembering our journey since that day in February 1979”.

For the Chair, the year is about progression, reflection on where we have been and where we are going. It is also about the forward motion with all in, moving in the right direction.

The launch of the independence activities also included an official launch

Will horse-racing in Vieux Fort extend to unicorns?

Forget the lights, I'll stick to my balloon.

A customary gospel dance for this year's Festival.

Well, Castries knows about fires all too well.

Always count on Lucians to fill up a party.

This time of year gets our youth's creative juices flowing.

video. This and the calendar of events are accessible on social media @IndependenceSlu40, and on the official website www. independence.lc. The video was developed by a group of young and talented Saint Lucians who came together to celebrate our humble nation including Kermany

“Loggo” Lionel as project manager and director, Dwight Florent who was the musical producer with writers iRashaad Joseph, Michael Robinson, Teddyson John & Tori Elle, with poetry supplied by Curmiah Lisette.

This month various

competitions will be launched including the Pli Bel Vilaj and the Pli Bel Komesysal, Independence Song, all adding to the amazing line-up for the year-long celebration. For more information on the full calendar of events and participation in the activities, contact the committee

on independenceslu40@gmail. com, and visit its social media @ IndependenceSlu40 on Facebook, Instagram and youtube or www. independence.lc

Submissions for activities onto the caendar of activities are still welcome.

Photography: Joshua St. Aimee

THE STAR

DECEMBER 15, 2018

www.stluciastar.com

Things you should know about Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation

By Attorney General’s Chambers

M

oney laundering is the process by which monies and other property obtained through illegal means, such as drug trafficking, murder for hire, human trafficking, robbery, tax evasion and corruption, are given the appearance of being acquired through legal means. These illegally obtained proceeds are considered ‘dirty’.

The process to legitimize the money and make it look clean is called ‘laundering’.

Money laundering has three stages, namely placement, layering and integration. Placement refers to the act of introducing the money obtained through illegal means, or ‘dirty money’, into the financial system in some way. Layering is the use of a series of complex transactions and creative bookkeeping tricks to conceal the actual source of the funds. Lastly, Integration refers to the act of reintegrating that money which has now

T

been ‘laundered’ into society through legitimate means.

On the other hand, financing of terrorism can come from legitimate or illegitimate sources such as one’s salary, from company profits or from donations. Illegitimate sources can be drug trafficking.

The financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) is also another area of great concern. It has been identified that traditionally, financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is done by states seeking to increase their military capabilities. However, proliferation might also be a means of supporting terrorist activities.

These three: money laundering, terrorist financing and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, can have negative effects on a country including an increase in violent and organized crime and corruption. From an international perspective it can result in: (a) loss of reputation

on the international market, (b) loss of donor funding, (c) loss of foreign direct investment and (d) loss of credibility for the financial sector.

In an effort to combat these three problematic areas—money laundering, terrorist financing and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction—The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has issued guidelines called the Forty Recommendations. Saint Lucia is scheduled to be assessed in September 2019 by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) through the Forty Recommendations.

The National AntiMoney Laundering Oversight Committee is working with both private and public sector stakeholders to ensure that compliance is met. All Saint Lucians are encouraged to familiarize themselves on these matters.

Information on the work of the CFATF can be garnered through its website at www.cfatf-gafic.org.

MEXICO CALL FOR TRANSLATION SUPPORT PROGRAMME 2018

he Embassy of the United Mexican States to Saint Lucia wishes to announce the launch of the call for the Translation Support Programme 2018 (PROTRAD) by the Government of Mexico.

The objective of the programme is to incentivize cultural and artistic exchange between Mexico and the rest of the world, particularly through the promotion of literature.

For this purpose, the Government of Mexico will offer financial support to: • Caribbean and foreign publishers interested in undertaking projects comprising full-length book translation and publication of works by Mexican authors into foreign languages.

• Caribbean and foreign publishers interested in undertaking full-length-book translation and publication of works in indigenous languages from Mexico into other languages, or works in other languages into indigenous languages from Mexico.

The Mexican Embassy is now offering book translation services to Caribbean publishers.

Persons who are interested in applying for the said call must register on the online portal under one of the following categories: • Category A: UD$15,000 for translation and publication of books specializing in literature and humanities, to be completed within twelve months.

• Category B: US$15,000 to US$25,000 for the translation and publication of art books, to be completed within twelve months.

• Category C: US$30,000 to US$50,000 for the translation and publication of a series of at least three books specializing in the following fields: literature, humanities or art, to be completed within twentyfour months.

For more information please consult the link: bit.ly/2DouEOP or contact the embassy via telephone number 1 (758) 451-4254/4257 or at mexicanembassy@candw.lc.

The deadline for the call is on February 22, 2019.

LOCAL

17

NATIONAL INSURANCE CORPORATION VACANCY

DEPUTY DIRECTOR The National Insurance Corporation is seeking to fill the position of Deputy Director to complement its management team at its Head Office in Castries.

JOB SUMMARY 1. To assist the Director in the performance of his or her duties in accordance with Section

12(2) of the National Insurance Corporation Act; 2. To oversee the strategic planning process; 3. To support the Board and management in promoting sound risk governance while

ensuring an effective risk management framework is maintained; 4. To spearhead the implementation and monitoring of recommendations towards fostering

a continuous improvement culture within the Organization; 5. To perform the duties of Director in his or her absence as directed by the Board in

accordance with the National Insurance Corporation Act. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include: 1. Lead and drive the continuous improvement process throughout the organization

in consultation with the Director through the implementation of management audit

recommendations including but not limited to:

a) Monitor the Strategic Plan;

b) Map the strategic ecosystem landscape – identify stakeholders and link with strategy; c) Implement a strategy radar - formalize existing tracking and institute systems

following strategy development;

d) Engender a culture of innovation and participation as Chairperson of the Innovations Committee; e) Act as change agent to facilitate a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization

f) Facilitate the NIC adopting the practice of change management; g) Establish metrics as needed and monitor performance and improvements in key metrics

h) Review NIC’s annual performance vis-a-vis the actuarial recommendations; i) Ensure the development of relevant policies inclusive of the Corporate Social

Responsibility Policy; j) Responsibility for ensuring the adherence to acceptable business ethics within the organization; k) Establish and maintain lines of communication to facilitate effective stakeholder engagement;

l) Prepare necessary reports to the Director inclusive of progress reports on the projects

being undertaken by the organization;

m) Attend meetings of the Board as required.

2. Develop and implement a risk management plan and support the respective Heads of

Department in the identification and reporting of risk, including;

a) Coordinate the risk management activities across the organization, including quarterly

risk management meetings; b) Coordinate the communication of risk results to the Audit and Risk Management Committees; c) Coordinate the annual risk assessment relating to the annual strategic planning process;

d) Maintain the Risk Register;

e) Ensure that there is regular reporting against the significant risk that NIC has agreed

to actively manage;

f) Oversee the process of reviewing and updating risk policies while recommending risk

management training as necessary;

g) Chair management’s Risk Management Committee and attend Group Audit Committee

meetings of the Board when required.

3. Serve as an Alternate for the NIC Director on the boards of subsidiaries; and 4. Perform any other job-related duties duly assigned from time to time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Qualifications 1. MBA with strong finance and/or strategy and/or change management component or

comparable qualification, with at least 10 years of relevant experience; 2. Minimum of 5 years of senior management experience; 3. Minimum 3 years of process improvement experience in a related environment; 4. Continuous improvement, quality management system, or project management training

and certification a plus; 5. Experience with identification of inefficiencies, process mapping, and appropriate

statistical and reporting tools; 6. Strong coaching, counseling and interpersonal skills; 7. Committed to continuous personal development; 8. Excellent public speaking and writing skills.

HOW TO APPLY Applications along with a detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of qualifications and two referees, should be addressed to: The Human Resources Manager Position of Deputy Director National Insurance Corporation Francis Compton Building Waterfront, Castries Deadline for applications is January 4th, 2019.

Please note that only suitable applications will be acknowledged.

18 HEALTH

DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

KIM’S KORNER

W

Don’t Look Down

hen you hear the word vertigo the older among you may be reminded of the 1958 Alfred Hitchcock suspense movie of the same name. Others may associate the word with an intense fear of heights, when the word for that is acrophobia, from the Greek acro, meaning peak, summit, edge; and phobos, meaning fear. Vertigo is defined as “a sensation of whirling and loss of balance, associated with looking down from a great height or caused by disease affecting the inner ear or the vestibular nerve; giddiness.”

Although vertigo can be caused by looking down, it can also be triggered by movements of the head and even moving suddenly from lying down to sitting. The symptoms can vary but most times changes in head position can cause the sensation of the room spining, or a feeling that

Vertigo sufferers experience a sensation of whirling and loss of balance.

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you are lightheaded, swaying or unbalanced. It can even make you feel as if you are being tugged in one direction.

These main symptoms can also be accompanied by nausea, headaches, sweating, uncontrolled movement of the eyes and also ringing in the ears similar to tinnitus.

The first step of diagnosis is to determine whether the symptoms are connected to the inner ear or neurological problems originating in the brain. This will include taking a detailed history and carrying out a series of tests. Some of the more common causes of vertigo are: • BPPV - Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most common form of vertigo and is caused by crystals in the inner ear, which are usually fixed in a gel-like substance, becoming displaced. It can lead to episodes of spinning, dizziness and nausea.

• Labyrinthitis – Inflammation of one of the two vestibular nerves in the inner ear. These nerves send signals to the brain about your balance and your position within the environment, hence the feeling of unsteadiness and dizziness even when you are sitting or standing still.

• Cholesteatoma – This is a non-cancerous abnormal cell that develops behind the eardrum. It is sometimes present at birth but may develop as a result of recurring ear infections.

• Meniere’s disease – Another disorder of the middle ear. As well as dizziness and the sensation that the room is spinning, it can also cause hearing loss, which can lead to permanent deafness and a feeling of heaviness in the ear.

It is thought to be caused by a build-up of fluid in the inner ear that disrupts the signals to the brain in relation to balance and hearing.

Vertigo can also be a secondary symptom of headaches, head injury

or trauma, medication, stroke, multiple sclerosis, or simply lying in bed too long.

Sometimes vertigo resolves without any intervention.

Otherwise, once a diagnosis is made, treatments are available to manage symptoms and, in some cases, speed up recovery.

There are various types of treatment depending on the type and cause of the vertigo. For example, BPPV will be treated with the Somat or Epley Manoeuvres – a series of controlled movements to move particles out of the semicircular canals to an area of the ear, called the vestibule, where they can be reabsorbed.

If the symptoms are caused by crystals, an effective treatment is an exercise sequence known as Brandt-Daroff Exercises.

Resolving the symptoms of vertigo may take some time or you may even find that the symptoms recur intermittently.

It is therefore important to follow some simple tips to decrease the symptoms and reduce the risk of injury: • Sit down as soon as you feel any signs of dizziness.

• Try to slow down movements that you know cause symptoms.

• Make sure you move around in areas that are well lit. This will allow you to focus on objects that are not moving, reducing the feeling of swaying and poor balance.

• If walking is difficult, use a walking aid to improve your balance.

The best way to prevent episodes of vertigo is to ensure that you treat the underlying cause, followed by diet and lifestyle changes. Following the above-mentioned precautions will help reduce the occurrence of future attacks.

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, O: 458 4409 or C: 284 5443; www.baysidetherapyservices.com

THE STAR

19

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20 LOCAL

DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

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Understanding Dementia

W

Why Can’t I see Anymore?

hen dealing with illness, each condition has its own set of warning signs. For Alzheimer’s disease, there are ten of them.

In this week’s column we will discuss the final warning sign in this series. If you or anyone you know experiences any of these warning signs, see your doctor or contact the Saint Lucia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association for more information or for a memory screening.

Warning Sign Number Ten: Trouble understanding visual images.

Vision changes related to cataracts is normal but, for some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. Having trouble reading, determining colour and contrast and measuring distance becomes a struggle.

This will affect a person’s ability

also hard on the person with dementia.

You will have to revisit these conversations.

Questions about warning signs:

Q: My mom has had dementia for a few years now and she has started going into all of the rooms in the house. One of the rooms is a storage space.

It only locks from the inside and she sometimes locks herself in by accident. How can we keep her safe without boarding up all the rooms?

Q: How do I get my brother to stop driving?

Eventually, some dementia patients develop problems with their vision but it’s difficult to explain to them the danger in tasks like driving when they are unable to see clearly.

to drive. With Alzheimer’s, a person’s peripheral vision becomes tunnelled, binocular vision and then monocular vision as the disease progresses. It’s important that if the person is still driving, they

have regular vision check-ups.

This is a very sensitive disability and can be increasingly challenging for families when they notice their loved one cannot safely drive anymore.

Losing this independence is

A: If the person is not skilled in mechanics, you can tinker with the engine so that the car cannot start, or let the air out of the tyres and hide the keys. Make sure you call the mechanic to warn them of the situation.

If your brother understands engines and could figure out any interference, it may be best to have a person in authority talk to him about the concerns and how much money it would cost if he were to cause an accident. Early on in the disease, the person with dementia usually has a high concern about money.

A: There are a couple of things you can do. You can try putting a black mat in front of the door. This may cause visual confusion. The black mat appears like a hole in the ground, so oftentimes a person with dementia will not cross over a black mat. Another thing you can do, if the doorknob is round, is purchase child safety clamps that go over the knobs.

It’s just a security clamp not a lock. You will only be able to

The Rural Unknown

O

n the eve of National Day I came across a Facebook post that captured my attention. The post suggested that for those purchasing Christmas gifts, we should buy from small businesses, women and mother entrepreneurs, and local artisans so that the money could reach small businessowners and allow everyone the benefit of a good Christmas.

While I agree with this proposal, I also ask, why should it only be during the holiday season?

As Saint Lucians, we generally advocate for buying local but when it comes to the actual act of doing so we hesitate.

The argument then shifts from supporting local entrepreneurs to dollars and cents.

In the “Buy Local” context, while it does benefit the local economy, many argue that local products seem to be out of scope for lower-income consumers because of the cost of the goods. Others purport that the quality of the goods is

not up to par with international standards. This argument is eerily similar to our food importation problem when individuals and businesses conclude that the quality is sub-par and the price of local produce is more expensive than importing. Now while these arguments are factual in some cases, it is not the absolute reality. However, if you look at the groceries in a typical Saint Lucian household and separate the local goods from those that are imported, the latter wins the race, sometimes by a huge margin.

I know it’s curious to align nationalistic values with local purchasing but, in a sense, if we call ourselves proud nationals should not our very food cabinets demonstrate a belief in local producers?

In many instances, local producers are competing with international brands at the same price margins, and yet we still go for what is imported. So then, I ask, what does it mean to be a proud Saint Lucian? Is it wearing a T-shirt with the

Regina Posvar is the current president of the Saint Lucia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association and has been a licensed nurse for 25 years. SLADA is supported by volunteers and donations and aims to bring awareness and support by providing awareness public workshops, family support, memory screenings, the Memory Café, counselling and family training for coping skills and communication with persons living with dementia.

Spinnakers Celebrates 25 Years of Business

Patriotism in the Shopping Aisles

By Keithlin Caroo

open it by squeezing the right spot. Your mom will not be able to figure it out. Although, if she messes with it long enough, she may accidentally open it.

Otherwise get a deadbolt and lock it.

Linfus Mederick, the manager at Spinnakers where you are warmly welcomed 364 days a year.

A

As proud nationals we should be looking to fill the pantry and refrigerator with local produce.

Saint Lucian flag eve though the T-shirt is manufactured in China? Has Saint Lucian pride fallen short of real nationalism, a sort of outward pride but an inward scepticism of what we can produce? Just a thought post National Day.

Helen’s Daughters is a Saint Lucian non-profit with a special focus on rural women’s

economic development through improved market access, adaptive agricultural techniques, and capacitybuilding. It was formed in 2016 in a winning proposal for UN Women’s Empower Women Champions for Change Program. To learn more about the initiative, visit: Facebook: Helen’s Daughters Instagram: helensdaughters.slu Website: helensdaughters.org

s if the Christmas season is not enough reason to celebrate in December, Spinnakers created extra cheer for invited guests last Saturday evening. The popular beach bar and restaurant located on Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay has been going strong for 25 years!

Spinnakers’ appeal has never waned. It is a favourite with locals and tourists alike, and with all age groups. At a party to mark the 25 years of existence, many guests recalled bringing their children along in the early days (and enjoying a beer or cocktail while the little ones frolicked on the beach).

Now, they are enjoying family time at the restaurant with their grandchildren.

Michael and Alison Richings, the proprietors of Spinnakers, treated guests to drinks and dinner, followed by dancing to the regular live music.

Mr Richings is happy with the success of the business and proud of his loyal and efficient staff. “We have 40 staff and between them they have 500 years of service,” he revealed.

Spinnakers is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, except Christmas Day. Its New Year’s Eve party is an annual treat with a welcome drink, full meal and wine allowance, live entertainment, quiz and a fantastic view of the fireworks. The event sells out quickly so book your tickets by calling the restaurant on (758) 452 8491.

THE STAR

DECEMBER 15, 2018

local

www.stluciastar.com

21

Female MP goes barefoot in the House!

I

foraged my house for closed shoes that would permit me to walk long distances at top speed and finally I fished out a shimmering pair that suited the holiday season. I am a sandal, flip-flops and peeptoe kinda girl and thankfully my employers don’t mind my unorthodox footwear. But I was headed for parliament where the dress code is of another time.

I complained in my head the entire commute to the

T

House, even creating a solid argument as to why closed shoes are unnecessary in an island constantly advertised as bikini land. Closed shoes in hot climes make feet unusually sweaty, cause bunions, callouses and fungus, and they damage toenails, And can be so painful!

As I bowed to the Speaker in accordance with House rules, all I could think was that many parliamentarians walked through these sacred halls

dressed per code but with no special regard for rules, only meeting clothing requirements but not at all adhering to oaths of office. I still cannot get out of my head our publisher’s recent recollection in these pages about the parliamentary mace being tossed by MPs around the House in 1980something.

And then, there she was, the MP Ms Gale Rigobert walking around the chamber with no shoes on, only stockings that spoke discomfiting

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority Appoints JMCPR as Agency Of Record for U.S. Public Relations

he Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) has appointed Jennifer Maguire Communications & Public Relations (JMCPR) in New York City as public relations agency of record for the Authority in the U.S. Market. The agency focuses on destination, hospitality, travel and lifestyle clients.

JMCPR is responsible for building awareness about Saint Lucia in the U.S. through media relations, partnerships and promotions, highlighting experiences from its iconic Pitons to the popular Sulphur Springs and mineral baths.

Building upon the “Let Her Inspire You” brand campaign, the agency will promote the island’s renowned accommodations and cuisine, couples getaways, weddings and honeymoons, family travel, wellness, adventure, arts and culture, events and niche markets. The JMCPR team is charged with garnering earned media in regional and national lifestyle,

travel, niche, trade and business press.

“The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority is very happy to have JMCPR on board with us. Jennifer and her team have an extensive background and major connections in the tourism industry and we hope to leverage their expertise to position Saint Lucia atop the U.S. market for Caribbean tourism,” said Mrs. Tiffany Howard, Acting CEO of the SLTA. “We are excited to see how JMCPR will use its creativity to open doors for Saint Lucia’s tourism product throughout the U.S. market,” Mrs. Howard added.

Founded in 2011, JMCPR is a boutique public relations agency in New York City, led by Jennifer Maguire, a tourism and hospitality expert with more than two decades of experience working with tourism boards and hospitality brands. Ms. Maguire has personally led PR activities for more than a dozen Caribbean, U.S. and global destinations, including driving

results for Aruba, Bahamas and Fort Lauderdale tourism boards.

“We are honoured to partner with the SLTA to bolster Saint Lucia’s presence in the U.S. market and expand awareness with a public relations programme that tells the destination’s stories through creative media relations, strategic partnerships and targeted interactions,” said Ms. Maguire, President of JMCPR. Her forte is building and executing integrated campaigns that incorporate PR, targeted media relations, social media, special events and partnerships.

Ms. Maguire is a seasoned PR expert who thinks in headlines and develops long-term relationships with clients based on a track-record of success. Her extensive experience developing strategic tourism programmes with a creative edge is illustrated by the dozens of awards and accolades she has secured for clients. Her background includes senior positions at top New York City PR agencies.

volumes. “Bullseye!” I thought and grabbed my camera.

But my flash sold me out. I managed to get just one shot of Madam Minister’s shoe-less feet. A few minutes later one of the House’s police personnel demanded that I delete my picture before his eyes. It seems I had done something illegal.

I had taken a picture with my flash on, and for that, special permission was required. The officer mumbled something about protecting the image of Saint Lucia.

Ten minutes later another officer told me MP Rigobert had complained to him and insisted

on my deleting her picture.

At any rate, my picture of her unshod feet. He was just doing his job, he said. “All I know, ma’am, is I’ve been directed to order you to delete the picture.” Fearing incarceration at legendary Custody Suites, I complied. I can’t help wondering, however: is it all right for women MPs to traipse around the chamber barefoot but not all right for reporters to photograph the occurrence?

I have no doubt someone has the answer and I fully intend to chase it up!

---Claudia Eleibox

Whatever happened to our sense of humour?

In particular, MP Gale Rigobert’s sense of the absurd!

Market Outlook for St Lucia’s Bananas in 2019

T

he outlook for Saint Lucia’s bananas on the United Kingdom Market does not look promising for 2019, says Winfresh.

Demands for Saint Lucia bananas by key customers in the UK have been significantly reduced from around 15,000 cases per week in 2018 to about 6,000 cases per week for 2019. A large part of the drop is the result of one customer ending the purchase of conventional Fairtrade bananas and, instead, converting to Fairtrade organic, which is not produced in Saint Lucia.

This is all the volume which was approved by the UK supermarket customers to be sourced from Saint Lucia, with no possibility of switching volumes to Saint Lucia from other sources.

In some cases, Winfresh does not purchase the bananas from the sources designated by the customers. Instead, Winfresh is simply the contract ripener of the bananas.

Consequent on the changing customer requirements in the market, the options open to the banana industry in Saint Lucia are sale outside the supermarket sector on the General Wholesale Trade in the UK or the Caribbean regional markets.

In the former, good quality bananas may be sold there at reasonable prices for most of the year, but the Saint Lucia bananas have an unenviable reputation there for poor and inconsistent quality. This is not Fairtrade and the price would be unattractive for the Saint Lucia bananas.

The regional markets

present the most attractive options, outside of the UK supermarket trade, for the Saint Lucia bananas but there is competition from supplies from Suriname and the Dominican Republic. However, with well-organized and orderly supplies and services to those markets, there is scope for growth of the Saint Lucia bananas.

Winfresh will do everything possible to assist in placing the volumes that are surplus to UK supermarket requirements wherever possible, in the UK or the region, but the industry will have to accept a downward adjustment in the prices, from the Fairtrade base price, to reflect the realities of the market and to deliver quality more consistently.

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www.stluciastar.com

DECEMBER 15, 2018 THE STAR

The fault, dear Brutus, may be in our stars . . . but it can be remedied!

Peter Josie

I

t was uncanny. Two men I did not think shared much in common struck the same theme of national concerns within hours of each other at separate venues. I count myself lucky to have heard both commentaries on the current escalating crime situation. I feel luckier still that Brother Ignatius Flahive and George Odlum had in their time and on separate occasions, encouraged me to write and to do so truthfully and fearlessly. (I may soon have to add Rick Wayne.)

I refer to the comments by the last mentioned on his DBS-TV show last Thursday December 6, on the crime situation and the apparent ineffectiveness of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. Rick suggested that the seeming

inability of the police to aggressively pursue criminals can be traced to the still unresolved IMPACS report relating to alleged illegal killings by some police officers. Rick also cited the work of lawyer Mary Francis, an advocate of human rights. Some love her while others despise her for what they erroneously perceive as her bias toward criminals at the expense of their victims.

If I were a minister of national security or a prime minister, I would ensure that the police have all the equipment they need and every member of the force would know that I have their backs. I would make a point of providing the best insurance policy for police officers. Those harmed in the line of duty would have the full weight of my government on their side. Every citizen would be aware that I would never plead with any criminal “to give the people a chance

to enjoy Christmas”, as did a prime minister several years ago. Never! I would encourage among the leadership of our force the attitude of Trinidad’s present police commissioner, Mr. Garry Griffith, toward criminals.

At the funeral ceremony last Friday of my friend and former Forum colleague Eldon Mathurin, held at the St. Joseph the Worker Church in Gros Islet, Monsieur Patrick Anthony referred to this country’s crime situation: “How come Saint Lucia is capable of producing such men as Eldon Mathurin and other law-abiding citizens of international repute while tolerating this growing lawlessness? Where are the parents?” I was tempted to raise my hand and answer “Paba’s” questions, but a funeral was hardly the place for such an exchange.

Yes, the narrative was crime but both Rick and the

FORM P7

FORM 7

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (PROBATE DIVISION)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (PROBATE DIVISION)

SAINT LUCIA SAINT LUCIA CLAIM NO. SLUHPB2018/0212 CLAIM NO. SLUHPB2018/0196 ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PROBATE(Rule 15) In the Estate of THOMAS MATHURIN late of Plateau, Babonneau in the Quarter of Castries, The Deceased.

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by 1.

AUGUSTIN MATHURIN Supervisor of Piat, Grande Riviere in the Quarter of Gros Islet in the State of Saint Lucia and 2. ELIZABETH LUDOVIQUE aka ELIZABETH LUDOVICQUE Contractor of Bocage in the Quarter of Castries in the State of Saint Lucia for a Grant of Probate to The Applicants who are the Executors of The Deceased, The Deceased having died intestate on the 9th day of April, 2017 at Plateau, Babonneau in the Quarter of Castries, Saint Lucia.

Any person having an objection to the Grant of Probate to the application shall file an objection within fourteen (14) days of the publication of this Notice.

-ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION(Rule 15) In the Estate of Peter Crick of Monchy in the Quarter of Gros Islet, The Deceased.

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by Celvin Paul Crick Security Officer of Malgretoute, Monchy in the Quarter of Gros Islet in the State of Saint Lucia for a Grant of Letters of Administration to The Applicant who is the son and one of the four (4) lawful children of The Deceased, The Deceased having died intestate on the 24th day of May, 2014 at Monchy in the District of Gros Islet, Saint Lucia.

Any person having an objection to the Grant of Letters of Administration to the application to the application shall file an objection within fourteen (14) days of the publication of this Notice.

Dated this 10th day of October, 2018 Dated this 5th day of September, 2018 ........................................................................

ANDRA GOKOOL-FOSTER Legal Practitioner for The Applicants This Advertisement of Application for Grant of Letters of Administration is presented for filing by Chambers Andra Gokool-Foster whose business address for service is No. 5 High Street, Castries, Saint Lucia. Tel/Fax No. 758-451-9300; E-mail: agokoolfoster@yahoo.co.uk The High Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Tel. No. 758-468-7500, Fax 758-468-7543. The Office is open between 9:00a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9:00a.m to 3:00 p.m. on Fridays except Public Holidays. The Office can also be contacted via E-mail: stluhco@eccourts.org

.........................................................................

ANDRA GOKOOL-FOSTER Legal Practitioner for The Applicant This Advertisement of Application for Grant of Letters of Administration is presented for filing by Chambers Andra Gokool-Foster whose business address for service is No. 5 High Street, Castries, Saint Lucia. Tel/Fax No. 758-451-9300; E-mail: agokoolfoster@yahoo.co.uk The High Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Tel. No. 758-468-7500, Fax 758-468-7543. The Office is open between 9:00a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9:00a.m to 3:00 p.m. on Fridays except Public Holidays. The Office can also be contacted via E-mail: stluhco@eccourts.org

The author (pictured) believes that while our society’s morals have been poisoned . . . still all is not lost.

Crime flourishes only in societies that profit from it!

celebrant at Eldon’s funeral merely scratched the surface, perhaps for lack of time. If I were in charge, the arrest and speedy prosecution of those

who commit crime, especially at this time of year, would top my list of priorities. Until we make an example of both our “gentlemen-criminals” who

practise so-called whitecollar crime, as well as the gunslinging Christmas-time burglars, right-thinking citizens will remain victims.

The morals and integrity of the society have been poisoned by these miscreants. But all is not lost. Crime functions best in an atmosphere of greed and selfishness. My solution to the rising tide of lawlessness would begin with compulsory national service. I would encourage participants to educate and train the more unfortunate and needy in our midst. They would be required to help keep their communities clean, assist farmers in their daily chores and help maintain discipline in schools and other public places.

You know now, dear reader, why politicians who may mean well have so much trouble transforming the society. Too many associate national service with armies and dictators.

Perhaps they need to read more on the history of the nations they slavishly monkey. As we contemplate our social situation and study the selfish, weak-kneed politicians still in our midst, we need to take time this Christmas season to acknowledge that while the fault, dear Brutus, may be in our stars, still we have the power to make things right!

Waste Management During Holiday Season

T

he Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority encourages all residents to contribute to a clean environment this holiday season by containing all garbage until the scheduled collection day for their respective communities.

Greater personal responsibility is critical at this time due to the increase in consumption which results in an increase in the quantities of solid waste generated.

Residents who require immediate disposal of waste are encouraged to transport all waste material to the Deglos Sanitary Landfill or the Vieux Fort Solid Waste Management Facility. Note that disposal of residential waste is free of

charge.

This year Christmas Day and New Year’s Day fall on Tuesdays. As such there will be no garbage collection on Tuesday, December 25, 2018 (Christmas Day) and Tuesday, January 1, 2019 (New Year’s Day). The Deglos Sanitary Landfill and the Vieux Fort Solid Waste Management Facility will also be closed on those days.

Households which receive the collection service on Tuesdays are asked to pay attention to announcements over the media, SLSWMA’s Facebook or Twitter page for the revised collection dates. The authority can also be reached at 453-2208 or Whatsapp on 7245544.

Residents of the Gros Islet, Castries Outer and Castries South collection zones are to note that the Tuesday, December 25, 2018 and Tuesday, January 1, 2019 collection days are rescheduled to Wednesday, December 26, 2018 and Wednesday, January 2, 2019. Please take heed of the rescheduled date for your community to remain clean throughout the holiday season.

Those who dump indiscriminately or transport waste from their homes or businesses are encouraged to desist. Instead, do what is required to keep Saint Lucia clean and be mindful that poor solid waste management is harmful to human health and the environment.

THE STAR

I

DECEMBER 15, 2018

INVEST SAINT LUCIA SUPPORTS CHARITIES AS PART OF CHRISTMAS OUTREACH

nvest Saint Lucia is once again spreading Christmas cheer by assisting three local charities in their Christmas outreach to the marginalized and elderly.

The recipients of Invest Saint Lucia’s goodwill are the Salvation Army, LucianAid Foundation and Feed the Poor Ministry which each received a donation of $2,000 towards their end of year activities.

Representatives of the charities expressed appreciation to Invest Saint Lucia, and noted, with admiration, the 100% increase in the level of support from previous years.

Mr. Gaspard Henry of Feed the Poor Ministry was thrilled that ISL’s support has been consistent over the years especially while support

from other corporate partners has waned. He advised that the Feed the Poor lunch is scheduled for Tuesday 18th December, on the grounds of the old courthouse in Castries and invited volunteers to assist with the fellowship.

Mr. Malcolm Burns of the Salvation Army explained that the organisation continues to support 65 people MondayFriday of every week with the provision of a meal. This donation will assist with the charity's Christmas grocery hamper drive, which will be distributed on December 20 to families that have registered their need over the year.

Sirnatira Peter of LucianAid Foundation, a charity based in Mon Repos, though unavoidably absent at the cheque

classified 23

www.stluciastar.com

presentation, was pleased at the continued support and noted over the phone that her charity will be presenting food baskets to the less privileged in her community.

Invest Saint Lucia’s CEO, Roderick Cherry, remarked that this is the fourth year that Invest Saint Lucia has supported these non-profit organisations, making this a standing item as part of ISL’s community outreach.

He commented, “Invest Saint Lucia cares about the general wellbeing of the poor and elderly. I want to commend the Salvation Army, Feed the Poor Ministry and LucianAid Foundation for the hard work, and Invest Saint Lucia pledges its continued support to those initiatives.”

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CTO DECLARES 2019 ‘THE YEAR OF FESTIVALS’ IN THE CARIBBEAN

n the heels of the past successful Year of Rejuvenation, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has declared 2019 the Year of Festivals in the Caribbean. Throughout 2019, the region will celebrate the unique rhythm and tempo of each CTO destination.

“The Year of Festivals will focus on the fascinating events that have become an integral part of the Caribbean tourism calendar. Festivals help to energize communities across the region, while giving visitors more reasons to enjoy our destinations,” said Hugh Riley, Secretary General of CTO.

“In addition to providing an

opportune time for vacationers to visit, these celebrations also emphasize the unique characteristics that define the many diverse backgrounds and traditions which comprise the Caribbean’s cultural tapestry,” added Riley.

The 2019 Caribbean Year of Festivals will be promoted through social media and traditional media channels and will create opportunities for travellers and vacation planners to share their experiences.

“While each destination is unique and inviting in its own right, the common denominator for all Caribbean societies is a yearning to celebrate life and each Caribbean country

provides a beat that can’t be replicated elsewhere,” said Riley.

“The Year of Festivals will highlight music, art, sailing, lights, food, rum, religious, literary and dance festivals celebrated throughout the region. It’s a theme which can easily be embraced by all CTO member destinations,” Riley noted. Throughout 2019 the CTO will assist member countries with an assortment of promotional concepts and opportunities which can be implemented around the theme of festivals to appeal to consumers, travel professionals and creators of unique vacation experiences.

Selling a house?

Have an apartment to rent?

Want your car sold?

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Place your classified ads in the STAR Newspaper and on our website: www.stluciastar.com Call the STAR at 450-7827 and ask for our sales department

Today there’ll be no rain, dear! www.stluciastar.com

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Photo by Bill Mortley

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2018

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