Guy Derails Pierre's Loco Motion

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Mr. Guy Joseph arriving at Constitution Park en-route to the House to debate the leader of the opposition’s vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Allen Castanet. The Southeast Castries MP proved in fine form!

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SATURDAY, february 02, 2019

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february 02, 2019 THE STAR

Sandals Foundation REFLECTIONS Backs Grow Well (An over-my-shoulder Junior Golf Programme look at life)

Saying Goodbye

By Michael Walker

T

aking leave is sometimes a hard thing to do, so hard in fact that humankind has expressed the sweet sorrow of parting in thousands of ways. The American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who viewed the management of such occasions as an art form, said: “Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” My old gardener, Andrew, better known as Bathroom—where do they get these nicknames from?—once consoled me upon the death of a beloved friend by reminding me with the profound words that “Once you live, Mike, you must die." And so right he was. Much to my surprise, I appear to have reached the age when almost everyone I once knew has departed this world or has at least booked a seat on some future flight.

These thoughts were prompted by the news of the death of my one-time editor, friend and mentor Judie, a woman I worked with for over a quarter of a century as we churned out books month after month for countries all over the globe. I remember the first time I saw her. It was at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 1973. My American publisher and I were having a drink. He was teasing me and asked what I thought about a somewhat glamorous woman in a poncho thrown over her shoulder and hat large enough to have come straight from the pampas of Argentina, who seemed to be giving us the once-over from behind an extremely large gin and tonic.

(I later learned it was vodka; she abhorred gin.)

“Looks interesting,” I said. “Good,” said he, “because she is your new editor.” And so began a collaboration that lasted almost 30 years. Ours was the definitive love-hate triangular affair. There was Judie and there was Lars, my long time partner, and I. It was she against us, but it was the three of us against the world. In the beginning the going was tough because the Scandinavian way, our way, of teaching was very different from the ways of the rest of the world, but we persevered and in the end hundreds of books later, and millions of sales worldwide, we succeeded. School systems the world over adopted our books and methodology.

And that was that. Some years, I spent over 200 days on the road or in the skies, lecturing

in colleges and universities and holding workshops for teachers and teacher trainers, all part of the after-sales service we had perfected into an art form.

We had introduced our after-sales service some ten years earlier. Once schools adopted our materials we made ourselves available to help them with any problems that arose.

Five days a week we would be on the road visiting schools throughout Scandinavia; in most cases we actually taught lessons for the teachers to show them how to do things instead of telling them how to do it. You might have heard about the tomcat that terrorized the neighbourhood so much that its owner had to have him castrated, after which he continued to visit all the ladies but only as a consultant. We did not want to be consultants. We invited teachers to come up with problems, difficult teaching topics and even pupils that seemed unmanageable, and off we toddled to take the classes. Sometimes we failed, but even failures worked in our favour. Teachers the world over were consoled if a problem was “too much” even for “the experts”.

Lars died just eight years after we started working with Judie. The first I heard of his impending demise was when we were travelling by car down the west coast of Sweden to catch a ferry to Poland where we were to hold a one-week workshop for teachers. This was before cell phones and Lars stopped at a gas station so that he could make a call home. He learned he had cancer, an insignificant black mark on his neck that would have to be removed as soon as he got back. It then took three years for him to die as the cancer roamed around his body, his lungs, his stomach, his skeleton and finally his brain.

And all the time he refused to acknowledge that he was ill.

Our last trip together was to San Francisco. After a day’s work we retired to a restaurant—I can still picture the booth in my mind—and Lars told me he had something to tell me (something I had known for three years but never spoke of). “Mike, I want to tell you that I have been ill. I have a sickness that is sometimes fatal, but I am going to get better.

But if I don’t, just remember that you and I have had the best possible life together these past 14 years and I have no regrets. We beat them all. We were the best!”

Now that was a great goodbye.

The Sandals Foundation is backing the Grow Well Junior Golf Programme and students to the tune of EC$72,000 for 2019.

T

he Sandals Foundation has long expressed a belief in the transformative effect of golf in the development of young people. Research has shown that early participation in golf builds self-esteem, discipline, concentration and etiquette which are not only crucial to excelling in the sport, but also to the personal development of children. It is against this background that the Sandals Foundation has provided a much-needed financial boost to Grow Well Inc. to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of its after-school junior golf programme.

Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, Heidi Clarke, said the Foundation is happy to support the programme, which has a proven track record of fostering positive and constructive growth in the young participants.

“We have had front row seats to see how playing golf every week has helped young people with their development in similar programmes such as the Sandals Foundation Care for Kids Golf Program in Jamaica, and we recognize that the Grow Well Junior Programme has a similar vision. We are proud to partner with Grow Well Inc., to expand and continue the amazing work being done to positively change the outcomes of young people here in Saint Lucia,” Clarke said.

The Grow Well Junior Golf

Programme is one of several after-school youth activities run by Grow Well Inc. Now in its eighth year, it has introduced the game of golf to more than 120 youths, providing professional lessons to not only help the juniors improve their golf skills, but to help create future productive citizens who contribute to their communities.

The grant of over US$27,000 (EC$72,000) will go towards providing professional coaching three days each week as well as providing uniforms, meals, equipment, transportation, coaching camps and holistic student monitoring for 20 at-risk youths between 9 and 18 years old. The programme is being hosted at the Sandals Golf and Country Club.

“We are absolutely delighted at this major collaboration with the Sandals Foundation,” said Grow Well Board Member, Co-founder and Director of the Grow Well Junior Golf Programme, Colleen Newman. “What pleased us most was that the Foundation, in interviewing us, was very interested in the total approach our programme takes, which includes not only professional golf coaching, but seeking to meet the educational and social needs of our Gros Islet youth.

They were impressed that we were using the vehicle of golf to help raise the self-esteem of youth for whom the street holds

too many inviting distractions.”

The Grow Well Junior Golf Programme has seen immense successes over the years, most recent of which was Grow Well Inc.’s participant Quain Jones being named the national Junior Golfer of the Year by the Department of Youth and Sports.

Accomplishments such as this, Clarke said, further cement the opportunities that youth programmes like the Grow Well Junior Golf Programme can provide.

“Programmes such as these are critical in underserved communities as they provide opportunities to young people, that many of them would not have access to. Whether it is through securing scholarships to further their education or competing in regional and international tournaments, sports have a way of opening doors and we are happy to be a part of this life-changing initiative,” Clarke said.

“I thank Sandals Foundation because it means better golf equipment and more coaching, overseas tournaments and my dream of becoming a top golfer could come true,” said 2018 Grow Well Junior Golf Champion, Keymanie Thomas. “Sandals team at the golf club have been good to all of us junior golfers.

The let us play on their course and treat us like family. I am very glad they are helping Grow Well.”

THE STAR

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february 02, 2019

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Are RSLPF Sources being paid by Overseas Publications for Information not available to Local Press? many female friends and we are looking at the possibility that one of their boyfriends could have killed him and set things up. The crime scene looks a fair bit staged from what has been seen and the pillow was placed on his face. We are trying to ascertain how it got there.”

When this reporter questioned Assistant

Police Commissioner Wayne Charlery about the evident leaks to overseas media personnel while local reporters were ignored, he said: “I would love to know who this person is.”

When I suggested the leaks could potentially damage

a prosecutor’s chances of bringing Bob Hathaway’s killer(s) to justice, Charlery replied: “No comment on speculative inquiries.”

Meanwhile suspicious minds here continue to believe that overseas publications

may be paying police sources for information not available to local news outlets. Hopefully, such suspicions will soon be addressed by the police commissioner!

---Dean Nestor

we're hiring

Digicel is looking for a top candidate to fill the role of Sales Manager. job overview You will report to the Head of Business Solutions. This role requires a talented individual to effectively and professionally manage the Sales Team and the distribution channel, to attain revenue targets. main duties and responsibilities: • • Sensitive details about Bob Hathaway’s (pictured) homicide seem to have been leaked to the British press by unidentified local police officers.

ACP Wayne Charlery says he would love to find out who leaked the information.

T

he local press has featured little information related to the death of Robert Hathaway since his naked body was discovered at his Grand Riviere home almost a month ago. About a fortnight ago, a Saint Lucian online publication revealed in a headline that the “Saint Lucia Police Want To Speak To ‘Bisexual Roommates’ Of Murdered Briton Robert Hathaway”. It turned out the story had been lifted from the UK’s Daily Telegraph. None of the details the Telegraph revealed had allegedly been supplied by local police sources.

The Telegraph was just one of the UK publications that featured sensitive information on the Hathaway case. The Times also ran a story that featured pictures and information allegedly supplied by Mr. Hathaway's “estranged wife”.

Although she was reportedly in Martinique at the time of Hathaway’s death, she was able to supply The Times with gruesome details unavailable to local reporters.

Reported the UK Times: “It’s believed the two young women with whom he [Hathaway] had been cohabitating found his body and ran from the home screaming and hysterical. But between then and the time police arrived, something strange happened: someone went into the home and took a picture of Mr Hathaway’s corpse. It was sent to Ms James, who described its contents to The Times. It showed his naked body lying on bloodsoaked sheets, a pillow over his face, a pair of boxer shorts lying across one leg.” The publication described Saint Lucia as a dream escape but the island paradise having a violent secret.

The Daily Telegraph revealed its source as a police spokesman who said: “Bob Hathaway had

• • • • • • • • •

Management of the Sales Channel to ensure that the revenue targets set are achieved.

Monitoring the achievement of Sales targets and initiating corrective action where necessary.

Maximizing and maintaining the number of Corporate/Business subscribers on our Network.

Efficient and professional management and development of sales staff to meet customer requirements, thereby retaining customer business and growing the existing base of customers and revenue.

Manage the Business Customer base and to build effective relationships to drive productive partnerships.

Produce Sales Reports and Analysis of sales activity in Sales Force.

Liaise with Marketing to initiate promotions etc. for increasing Direct and Indirect sales.

Manage implementation of projects in a timely manner to recognize business revenue.

Manage costs, SAC and internally to improve or increase profit margins.

Accurate and timely reporting of sales Channel Any other duties assigned from time to time.

qualifications and experience: • • •

First Degree, preferably in Business or related field Minimum of five years experience in sales management Must be based in St. Lucia

functional skills: • • • • • • • • •

Persuasive communications skills is essential People Management skills Can do and upbeat, positive and dynamic personality Strong organizational skills and keen attention to details Ability to work under pressure Excellent written and verbal communications skills Solid computer literacy and the ability to collect, update and use data would be critical to sales efficiency.

Ability to prepare effective presentations that respond to the needs of customers.

Excellent problem solving skills To apply for this position, you should forward your resume to: Digicel St. Lucia Ltd., Massade, Gros Islet, P.O. GM791, or email to SLU_HR@digicelgroup.com Deadline for submission: Friday, February 1st, 2019 PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY SHORT LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED.

© 2019 Digicelgroup.com All Rights Reserved.

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february 02, 2019 THE STAR

When will 2017-18 CIP Annual Report be Tabled in Parliament? year, Mr Nestor Alfred, the Chief Executive Officer of the Saint Lucia Citizenship by Investment Unit, said: “The report has been prepared, and yes it was late. I take responsibility for this, but it has since been submitted to the prime minister.” Three months later, the report is yet to be laid in parliament.

At a press conference

Joshua St. Aimee

I

n August last year, the STAR reported on some of the details included in the 201617 Citizenship by Investment annual report. There was a total of 36 applications, seventeen of which were approved.

Sixty-one foreign nationals, some from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Russia, and Morocco, were granted Saint Lucian citizenship.

The Citizenship by Investment Act states: “Not later than three months after the end of each financial year and in accordance with subsection (3), the Board shall submit to the Minister an annual report on the work and activities of the Board for that financial year, and the Minister shall, not later than three months after the submission lay the same in Parliament.” The Act indicates that the financial year of the CBI

in February last year, CEO Alfred revealed that over two hundred applications had been granted, details of which are in the report. Last year also saw six individuals have their Saint Lucian citizenship revoked. According to a Cabinet conclusion dated March 26: “The grants of citizenship for the following persons are

revoked, as in the opinion of the minister, these persons have committed acts which may bring Saint Lucia into disrepute.”

The prime minister’s Senior Communications Officer, Nicole McDonald, said this week that the report is with Cabinet, but was unable to say precisely when it will be tabled in parliament.

Financial Action Task Force Mr. Nestor Alfred, CEO of the Saint Lucia Citizenship

by Investment Unit announced in October that the CIP report had been submitted.

board begins on April 1st and ends on March 31st each year, or as otherwise determined by the minister to whom the citizenship programme is assigned, in this case Prime

Minister Allen Chastanet.

The 2017-18 financial year ended last year, so, where is that year’s corresponding report? During a press conference on October 18 last

Targeted Financial Sanctions Related to Terrorism and Terrorist Financing

By The Attorney General’s

against terrorism.

The Anti-Terrorism Act (the ATA), Chapter 3.16 of the Revised Laws of Saint Lucia criminalizes terrorist acts and terrorism financing and has provisions that gives effect n last week’s article the to the UN Security Council topic of terrorist financing Resolutions. Section 5 of the offence was examined. This ATA states “Where the Security week the conversation on Council of the United Nations terrorism financing continues decides, in pursuance of Article as Recommendation 6 looks at 41 of the Charter of the United “Targeted financial sanctions related to terrorism and terrorist Nations, on the measures to be employed to give effect to any financing”. of its decisions and calls upon

In its effort to fight terrorism and terrorist financing, the Government of Saint Lucia to apply those measures, the the Financial Action Task Minister responsible for External Force (FATF), through its Forty Affairs may, with the approval Recommendations, calls on countries to implement targeted of Cabinet, by Order in the Gazette, make such provision financial sanctions in keeping with the United Nations Security as may appear to him or her to be necessary or expedient to Council Resolutions 1267 and its successor, 1373, dealing with enable those measures to be the prevention and suppression effectively applied.”

Recommendation 6 also of terrorism and terrorism requires countries to have financing. These resolutions call a competent authority with for the immediate freezing of funds or assets that are directly responsibility for enforcement or indirectly benefitting persons of sanctions. Section 3 of the ATA gives the Attorney or entities affiliated with the General the power to declare Taliban or Al-Qaida. persons specified entities. This

The risk of a terrorist attack in Saint Lucia is low, but designation has the effect of stopping the flow of funds or the government is determined other assets to terrorist groups that Saint Lucia and Saint or the use of funds or assets Lucians be neither the target nor source of terrorist activities. by terrorist groups. A judge of the High Court has the power, The designation of terrorist upon application by a declared entities is one measure Saint specified entity, to determine Lucia can take to contribute whether the declaration made to the international campaign Chambers and the National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC)

I

by the Attorney General is reasonable and, if found to be unreasonable, compel the Attorney General to revoke the order. It is incumbent upon the country to ensure that the rights of innocent third parties are protected. Additionally, these sanctions should be applied to both natural and legal persons.

However, before all of this can take effect, upon receipt of the UN Sanctions List or a designation by the Attorney General by publication in the Gazette, financial institutions must verify whether or not they hold accounts or transact business for or on behalf of specified entities. Whatever the outcome, in accordance with the ATA, it must be reported immediately to the Financial Intelligence Authority.

In September 2019 the assessors from the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) will seek to determine how well Saint Lucia has complied with this recommendation. This examination will cover two areas: (1) Technical Compliance, which is determining that our Anti-Terrorism Act is detailed and extensive, and (2) Effectiveness, which investigates how well the Act is being used to combat terrorism.

Further information on this Recommendation can be found at the CFATF website at www.cfatf-gafic.org

THE STAR

february 02, 2019

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What the Security Minister says about Crime in St Lucia No Comfort to Roger Pratt’s Widow!

Claudia Eleibox

C

learly surrounded by a flurry of international and Saint Lucian news reports referring to her husband’s murder, Margaret Pratt issued a statement on her popular blog, Justice for Roger, chastising Minister for National Security Hermangild Francis for his claims at a press conference last week.

“Francis denied reports that the police force had refused a request from British police to assist in investigations of Roger Pratt who was killed by bandits who attacked him and his wife, Margaret, on board their yacht while anchored in Vieux Fort waters. The minister in fact identified

Mrs Pratt as the source of these false claims.” This according to a published Voice report on January 24 this year, to which Pratt blogged: “While I have consistently expressed frustration with the on-going delays associated with bringing those accused to trial, I have at no point requested that the British police become involved.

I have never claimed that the Royal St Lucia Police Force has rejected any assistance.”

Did Francis mix up the deaths of Roger Pratt and Oliver Gobat? The family of the last mentioned had indeed sought assistance from the UK government. At a recent press conference Francis had said: “Persons have mentioned the Gobat case and that we had turned down assistance from the British police. Mrs Pratt said so but that is not so.”

Referencing Pratt’s blog, Francis went on: “To say our

justice system is not working is really unfair. Mrs Pratt has her issues and I respect everything she says. But we have kept in constant contact with Mrs Pratt.

We have told her exactly what is happening.”

He noted that investigations into the Pratt case had resulted in the arrest of five suspects but their confessions might not have been enough to secure guilty verdicts. Francis cited a Barbadian matter that had resulted in the incarceration of an individual for ten years, until he was declared innocent on appeal. “If in the Pratt case there was just one accused,” Francis said, “maybe we would have gone through.”

As reported several times by this newspaper, a major complaint of Margaret Pratt has centred on correspondence from local authorities. Last December she visited Saint

Lucia for the first time since her husband’s death five years earlier. “When I left at the end of January 2014,” she said, “I was really reassured that progress was being made.

Four people had confessed and there was really strong forensic evidence.”

Since then, according to Pratt, communication has not been very good and she has not been given explanations for the delay in taking the case to trial.

“If someone tells me what’s going on and why, even though I may not entirely get it, at least I’ve got something to hold on to,” she told this reporter. “It’s when everyone goes quiet that there’s radio silence. I don’t get that at all and it’s very unhelpful.”

Pratt also found herself flustered over another article published in The Voice newspaper on January 22, titled “Investigative and

Prosecutorial Competence”. The article highlighted the uproar generated when a non-local is murdered and how it affects local tourism. The part that Pratt found especially disturbing: “No tourist has been killed here — brutally murdered while on a one-day cruise call or while spending a week at a hotel — at least not recent enough for most to remember.

Yes, non-nationals have been killed here. But they were not ‘visitors’, instead persons who had adopted Saint Lucia as their home. That’s precisely the case involving Roger Pratt, a yachtsman murdered in Vieux Fort several years ago.”

Margaret Pratt confirms that she and her husband sailed to the Caribbean to celebrate and, after coming from Martinique, they stopped in Saint Lucia for her 60th birthday a few days before they were scheduled to continue their

sailing tour.

Like the parents of Oliver Gobat, Gloria Greenwood’s daughters, Jane Tipson’s sister and Robert Hathaway’s family, Margaret Pratt waits for justice. So do relatives of several murdered native Saint Lucians.

It is conjectural whether Francis sought to pass the buck last week when he said, referencing the local media: “We have to look at it. Maybe we should send the truth out there and tell persons in the wider world that Saint Lucia is not as dangerous as some are claiming. If you look at the list of the 25 most dangerous countries in the world, Saint Lucia is at number 19. There are several other Caribbean countries that are way ahead of Saint Lucia.”

Saint Lucia’s security minister certainly has a way with words!

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THE STAR

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february 02, 2019 THE STAR

A WITCH HUNT AIMED AT DESTRUCTION Peter Josie

B

etween the 15th and 17th centuries, Europe experienced multiple waves of witch hunts driven by religious wars and conflicts in the wake of the Reformation. Knowledge of that past savagery should feed our insight into the atrocities of slavery and remind us of man’s inhumanity.

Even with the growth of the intellect, we still witness the violence perpetrated by man upon his fellow man. Violent attacks are more prevalent when fuelled by politics and politicians. Only the refinement of education and consciousness of a higher spiritual and more perfect being offer hope and new insight into the rise of criminal activity whenever political turmoil is spun by politicians.

The Motion of No Confidence by the leader of the opposition is aimed at creating an exaggerated environment of mischief with a disregard for the peaceful pursuit of social and economic development which the government is pursuing.

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The author claims to know well the House opposition leader Philip J. Pierre (pictured) and is of the view he is being misled by members of his party with their own personal priorities!

In 1979 this island’s capital almost experienced an orgy of self-inflicted destruction by the party that had just won the general elections. Historians will slant this event however they wish, but the fact remains that the destruction was directed by the people who had won the elections. Now, sadly, it’s the progeny of that same party, that between 1997 and 2016 enjoyed fifteen years in political office, who seem hell-bent on causing as much chaos and doubt in the capital city as previously existed.

Out of the blue, a no-confidence resolution, which seemed to spring from nowhere, is being presented by the leader of the opposition with intent to get rid of the prime minister. Whether or not one thinks of this as terror, there is little doubt in my mind that this is what it is. It began the moment Allen Chastanet was elected political leader of the United Workers Party and it was accentuated on June 6, 2016 when the people voted his party into office.

These shameless opposition people have accused the government of committing crimes against the people of Saint Lucia, behaving as if we, the people, have just arrived here from Mars. We witnessed the wild expenditures that yielded no completed results. We saw prestigious national awards granted to total foreign strangers. We are still paying the consequences of the unprosecuted IMPACS report and the withdrawal of American assistance for training our police. No one knows where the promised research lab and hospital for diabetic patients disappeared to. No one has accounted for the excessive expenditures

at St. Jude Hospital or from stopping the school bus subsidy for our rural school children. No one mentioned the numerous square pegs that were placed in round holes in the government and who disappeared when the people said enough was enough in 2016.

The charges against Allen Chastanet are frivolous and vexatious. They are often trivial and fabricated fake news and lies. But the new UWP, under Chastanet, seems as determined as the old to keep a stoic silence, preferring to allow time and its work to speak for the party. In my political book, one must be constantly moving on at least three fronts. It’s okay to let your work speak for you but you must always be prepared to fight fire with fire, even as you plan and execute new capital projects.

The SLP’s worst fears were realized when the electorate handed the Chastanet-led UWP an 11-6 mandate to govern. It was the party’s first victory at the polls without its legendary leader Sir John Compton.

The victory resulted from a determined team effort. The SLP has still not accepted that defeat. It behaves as if the people had no right to vote it out of office. A government that refuses to respect the will of the people has no right to govern.

The SLP has always been a sore loser. It showed it by the refusal to congratulate the winning prime minister, and by the demonstrated lack of respect in parliament. The SLP made it clear that it intends to do all in its power to frustrate the UWP government and its ambitious development projects. The noconfidence motion is another ruse in its efforts to overturn the peoples’ decision of June 2016.

The contempt for the Saint Lucian electorate is palpable.

The SLP even seems to question the constitutional five-year period to which the government was elected. I am saddened that Philip J. Pierre, who is better off and more intelligent than most of his colleagues, should appear to be following the advice offered by the angry and frustrated people

that surround him and who are willing to sacrifice this country’s potential in their own short-term interests.

I supported Allen Chastanet as political leader of the UWP because I felt he would receive public support as prime minister.

I therefore feel it okay to offer the following advice at this time. As a patriotic Vieux Fortian I wish to see St. Jude hospital completed, the sooner the better. About 30 or so years ago, I watched the Olympic Games from a bed at St. Jude Hospital. Besides the speedy completion of St. Jude, I wish to see those who participated in the squandering of monies intended for that hospital brought to justice. It’s time for someone to answer for the wastage of taxpayer dollars on the reconstruction of St Jude Hospital. I would like to see the prime minister take personal charge of the HIA project, the hotel at Choiseul village, the commencement of the new Sandals Hotel, the completion of desilting of the John Compton Dam and the opening of the Owen King-EU Hospital. In the next few weeks he must focus like a laser beam on these projects. It’s time for the Helen of the West to rise and shine like the city on the hill it was meant to be. It’s time to destroy the witch hunters and purveyors of fake news and give our people a chance to breathe freely and enjoy themselves.

Obviously I am writing in advance of the no-confidence debate. My only concern is how much time a busy government should waste answering every criticism and lie from the opposition. Only one person from the government should answer for the purposes of Hansard. The government must stop the idle talk in the House and get back to work. There is too much still to be done. The no-confidence motion should shame the SLP parliamentarians and supporters.

It really is puerile nonsense, akin to a child playing with matches, and a danger to all!

For Peter Josie’s comments after the Motion of No Confidence was debated, please see page 15.

THE STAR

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february 02, 2019

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february 02, 2019 THE STAR

How we fight crime almost encourages more crime!

By Dean Nestor

W

hen it comes to the crime situation, 2019 has not started well for Saint Lucia. Nestled among several burglaries and armed robberies are three homicides and several shootings. The country seems no closer to getting out of the mire that plagues us on an annual basis.

One caller to a talk-radio show posited that what we have is a social problem, not a crime problem. Wishful thinking? He suggested there aren’t enough measures in place to properly rehabilitate our off-the-rails young people. But if this line of thinking were to be followed to its logical conclusion, it would be the equivalent of Nero fiddling while Rome burns. Even though the root of the crime problem in Saint Lucia is anti-social behaviour, and while it is true we lack rehabilitation centres, this does not negate the fact that we have a serious crime problem. Pretending the situation is otherwise, only

feeds the plague.

Speaking of institutions to steer the youth away from crime reminds of two recent school-related incidents. One involved a student of the Corinth Secondary School who took a firearm into class; the other involved two Clendon Mason Memorial Secondary School students who allegedly posted on social media at least one picture of themselves holding guns. Police claim they are investigating.

Dr. Virginia Albert, former President of the St. Lucia Teachers’ Union, told reporters: “I am of the view that the time is right for initiatives to be taken to ensure that we maximise and ensure school security.”

She suggested the installation of CCTV cameras in the island’s schools but neglected to mention the feasibility of such an initiative, keeping in mind the cost. As the Jamaica Observer recently reported: “Security Minister Robert Montague says nearly $3 billion will be needed over the next two years for the full roll out of the national Closed-Circuit Television

ACP for Crime and Intelligence Wayne Charlery said that US$6.3 billion is earned annually by human traffickers in the Latin American and Caribbean region.

System.”

Writing on the local crime situation in the STAR two weekends ago, Rick Wayne observed: “It is a dangerous ignorance we demonstrate when persistently we dump on our local police for their inability to solve crime . . .

When the exaggerations we

see on American TV are daily shoved in their faces.” Coming up with impossible remedies for what ails us is like prescribing surgery for a paper cut. The problems that today overwhelm us, crime in particular, did not spring up overnight. Truth be told, we nurtured them when we should have nipped them in the bud.

Just in the last week there have been several shootings in Vieux Fort—one of them fatal, two of them in Bruceville.

Castries has been the scene for two shootings as well, and when all of this is added to the recent armed robberies that have taken place at Serenity Park and elsewhere, it is glaringly obvious that

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criminals here do not fear arrest, nor do they fear our other legal reprisals. These are dangerous times for the country, despite the Security Minister’s suggestion that Saint Lucia is not as dangerous as people are claiming it to be.

One of those armed robberies was committed against a minibus driver named Ignatius Jn Baptiste.

Claudius Joseph, President of the Gros Islet Minibus Owners Association, spoke about the incident, noting the obvious: “Crime in Saint Lucia is on the upsurge,” which is commendable at a time when so many are in denial. “In the case of the minibus drivers,” Joseph added, “I think it is time we bring in the cashless system so that drivers will not be walking around with a lot of money.” Not a bad idea but it doesn’t directly address the criminal elements. Even though bus drivers would no longer be carrying cash around, what’s to stop criminals from attacking the rest of the citizenry?

While the police are the perpetual whipping boys for every crime committed, others in authority get away scotfree. Failing to address the shortcomings of our justice system will not ameliorate the crime problem. National Security Minister Hermangild Francis hinted at this problem in our judicial system at the recent launch of a CounterTrafficking Public Awareness Campaign. He spoke of the need

to “strengthen the legislation on the punishment for those found guilty of human trafficking”. He hoped to see fines replaced by prison sentences. Of course, as Francis noted, “We would need the concurrence of the judges and we do hope that the judges will understand the magnitude of the problem and hand down the appropriate sentence.”

The launch itself was emblematic of the way we deal with our crime issues. The number of victims of human trafficking worldwide—provided by the International Labor Organization (ILO) as 20.9 million—was easily cited. In fact, it’s just a Google search away. Another figure that easily rolled off the tongue at the launch was the US$6.3 billion earned annually by human traffickers in the Latin American and Caribbean region.

For human trafficking in Saint Lucia, however, figures were unavailable. The best our Crime and Intelligence representative Wayne Charlery could do was refer to the “very few” reported cases. So far as I can tell, they never made it to the courts.

Talk alone has never deterred violent criminals.

Refusing to call a spade a spade is also an exercise in futility. In case some have not noticed, this is 2019, not 1920. Nothing is as it used to be. Certainly not crime in Saint Lucia. Either our alleged protectors of life and property readjust their opposition to crime or, as we say, “all fall down!”

SLASPA and Carnival Cruise Line assist Holy Family Children’s Home

he Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, collaborated with Carnival Fascination on Thursday, January 24, 2019, to assist with maintenance and beautification works at the Holy Family Children’s’ home in Ciceron.

Last year the Carnival Corporation announced a series of community projects geared towards supporting children, education and emergency preparedness in the Caribbean.

Since then, the corporation has been working with local and international non-governmental organisations in various countries

on community projects tailored to their own Corporate Social Responsibility.

Senior Manager Business Development and Corporate Communications at SLASPA, Gasper George stated, “SLASPA’s Corporate Social Responsibility Programme is aligned with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, therefore our collaboration with the Carnival Corporation speaks to the Authority’s commitment in building sustainable cities and communities to achieve quality education, good health and well-being. It is envisaged that

through initiatives like these, SLASPA can work towards further improving the conditions of the marginalized.”

Hotel Director of Carnival Cruise Line, Dany Petrenko commended the efforts of the Home’s management team.

According to him: “Praises and congratulations must be given to Sister Anthonia and her team for their wonderful work and dedication in ensuring that each child is shown unconditional love and care.”

In attendance on Thursday were representatives of SLASPA as well as a crew from the Carnival Cruise Line.

THE STAR

february 02, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

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A long-distance view of Tuesday’s House Debate

By Nicholas Joseph

G

rounded in my Atlanta bunker by an impending snow storm that never materialized, I tuned in to the first ever Motion of No Confidence debated in the Saint Lucia House of Assembly. I was quickly reminded that official government functions on the Rock of Sages never begin on time. Billed to commence at 10:00 a.m. the proceedings started well after the scheduled time. Not a word about the delay; business as usual.

No apology; indiscipline is a manifest cultural disposition.

Then a uniformed police officer led the way with a goldplated Mace, the colonial symbol of shackles supposedly broken some 40 years ago.

We became an independent nation on February 22, 1979, but our colonial masters are still symbolically present—a constant reminder that for small states, sovereignty and non-alignment are mere words.

With no natural resources we

are just a speck of dust on the doorstep of the economic sharks; sardines in an ocean of insatiable whales. Oh, about that rehearsed opening prayer intended to appeal to a higher power for guidance. By now it can safely be argued that the gods must be deaf or they simply plug their ears with the latest iPhone or Samsung earbuds. The bacchanal behaviour of our “honourable members” long ago expelled God from Saint Lucia’s House of Dissemble, as the departed George Odlum often referred to our honourable House. It’s difficult to live with the reality that the professed Christians are among the worst offenders of the Ten Commandments.

When Speaker Andy Daniel took his seat and called the House to Order he appeared to be carrying a very heavy load. He seemed unsure, jittery and anxious. There was something unsettling about his facial expressions and body language. From my iPad screen, it did not appear that he’d had much sleep the

The writer (pictured) is a former editor of this newspaper, now resident in Atlanta, Georgia.

previous night. Perhaps he was preoccupied with the day’s misadventure about to unfold before the nation.

Maybe he was mindful of times past when the gold Mace was lifted from its lofty place and tossed disrespectfully around a riotous House. He might also have been contemplating his place in history, in relation to the Motion of No Confidence. It can also be that he knew very well, history and experience in his back pocket, that dealing with undisciplined and egotistic

A Speaker’s Dream Come True!

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he first time I met House Speaker Andy Daniel I faced him while uncomfortably lodged in one of the three leather chairs in his office on the opposite side of his desk. He looked unfamiliar without his overwhelming robes as my eyes searched for the Mace that I imagined was ever present in his company. I learned later that it was in his office but hidden in a massive wooden case.

He asked me what I thought he could do to get more young people to attend House of Assembly sittings.

My response reflected how I thought Saint Lucians felt towards the matter. “I think our politicians need to be more serious, then maybe people will be more inclined to listen. Maybe it would help if the adults showed more interest in House proceedings.”

It was his view that actually being present at House sittings was more exciting than watching them

on TV or via Facebook.

The House chamber is surprisingly spacious. Still, it is possible to hear even the MPs’ murmurings, their backchats and so on from the press box and gallery. Visitors can also see the facial expressions usually not covered by the House cameras. Not to be missed are the bows to the Speaker whenever attendees enter and leave the chamber.

There is also the restrictive dress code, especially in the case of females. But scant regard is paid to the gross behaviour of MPs, the insults they toss at each other and the allegations of corruption.

On Tuesday the Speaker brought to the attention of the House that the seats in the public gallery were all “well populated with the citizenry of blessed Helen of the West”.

What made this remarkable had nothing to do with what I had suggested to the Speaker at our recalled first meeting.

The draw was a Motion of No Confidence in Prime Minister Allen Chastanet brought by the

leader of the opposition.

Clearly all it takes to get a full House is the promise of drama. Political drama. On Tuesday the action outside the House reminded of street parties, with people dressed to suit.

Meanwhile, inside, the Speaker was saying: “It has always been my desire, and hopefully it will continue to be, that fellow Saint Lucians will take the opportunity to visit the honourable House to see their members, the people that they elect into office. So, members of the gallery, it should not be for this moment only that you find yourself in these august chambers of our island. Saint Lucians, I say to you, this is your House, this is your chamber, let’s populate it to see your members at work.”

At least there was one thing about Tuesday that gave Mr Speaker at least a moment’s pleasure.

---Claudia Eleibox

grown men is no easy task.

It did not take long to discern the reason for the Speaker’s evident anxiety and preoccupation. As soon as the Motion was tabled by Opposition Leader Philip Pierre, the government side challenged the constitutionality of the proceedings. MP Guy Joseph rose on a point of order. He argued that the Constitution did not support a Motion of No Confidence in the prime minister’s name, that the Motion should be against the government. Obviously he’d read Rick Wayne’s comments in the weekend STAR. It would’ve been commendable to give the author credit for his research. Alas, the MP parroted Rick’s lines like the Amazona versicolor (the island’s national bird).

Like a dead car battery on a bitter cold winter day, the MP’s objection gave Speaker Daniel a badly needed jumpstart. Demonstrating he had come prepared with facts and court cases under his belt, the Speaker ruled that there was nothing wrong with the opposition leader’s Motion.

He ruled that the proceedings were in keeping with the

Standing Orders of the House and called on Pierre to proceed.

The government side seemed stymied and unsure of its next move. The opposition was gleeful. In the space of 30 minutes I counted about five times the government’s side interrupted the leader of the opposition, at times reposting the very point of order that the Speaker had already ruled on.

What followed was a painful and savage attempt by the government side to derail the session with disruptive, nonsensical and meaningless points of order that went nowhere. The Speaker’s frustration was at times on full display. Although conscious of the fact that he was the House’s “referee”, he was also attempting to provide the government an out by hinting that they too would have an opportunity to respond to the Motion. It was difficult for the Speaker under the barrage of illogical and disruptive calls to maintain his cool and sanity, but he was able to be the adult in the unruly House of Disorder.

In my view, the uncontrollable outburst by MP Peter Lenard “Spider” Montoute was ample ground for expulsion from the

House. However, Speaker Daniel exercised great discretion and maintained an even-handedness in dealing with both sides of the House. As the day progressed he displayed courage and confidence. He handled his moment in history with tact, diplomacy and fairness. He also showed the nation’s childish politicians that there is something bigger than spiteful party politics.

The good name of the country was at stake and the Speaker shone brightly in the darkness of the horror house.

Interestingly, the government side seemed oblivious and blind to the reality that the Motion of No Confidence, which by their own calculation the opposition stood no chance of winning, was simply an exercise of a democratic convention; a political instrument protected by House rules that govern equality and fairness.

Finally, the Motion was solidly defeated by the government’s unwavering 11-6 majority. Amazingly, the democratic institution and its conventions survived the onslaught. Maybe, it’s time to call on honorable members to behave with decorum and respect when representing the people. Ya’ll, the world is watching.

Caribbean Leaders Recommit to Joint Fight against Crime

M

inister for Home Affairs, Justice and National Security Senator the Honourable Hermangild Francis, along with Attorney General Stephen C.J. Julien, on Friday, January 25, 2019 returned to the island after attending the one-day Regional Security System (RSS) Council of Ministers Meeting in Barbados.

Minister Francis said the one-day meeting is a strong signal that Caribbean leaders remain highly committed to collectively combatting crime.

He also described the meeting as productive and geared towards setting the tone for the New Year.

Minister Francis said, “The highlights of the meeting indicated that the escalation in lawless activities is really a regional problem and not per se an isolated or ‘one island’ issue.

Barbados, for example, has had eight homicides already [in

2019] and this is very unusual for Barbados historically. At the meeting Prime Minister Mia Mottley stated clearly that she was very keen to address that, as well as Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves who, in respect of Saint Vincent, shared a similar concern. Saint Lucia too espoused these sentiments and so the best approach is to keep working together to push back on the criminality in a way that sends a strong message.”

Minister Francis explained that there are some negative dynamics associated with the free movement of people around the region, and those appear to be strong contributory factors to the current challenges confronting the region. “I talked about the free movement of people and those who misuse this as a means to move around committing serious crimes and then moving again to evade police. I also talked about the

polygraph tests and every leader present supported that this should be applied to everyone working in law enforcement and border control before they are hired and then periodically thereafter,” he said.

Another major talking point for the regional leaders, he said, was the judiciary‘s role in the context of the region’s response to criminality. “Bail seems to be given to notorious characters so easily that it defeats the work of the police,” he lamented.

Other talking points from the RSS Council of Ministers Meeting included gangs and the Anti-Gang Legislation, the implementation of a new Anti-Corruption Unit for the RSS, adoption of a harmonious position on the marijuana issue and the feasibility of an interisland exchange programme to benefit law enforcement officers.

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february 02, 2019 THE STAR

Chastanet Surviv Speaker Plus I

t seemed perfect carnival weather. Or weather ideal for cricket. Small wonder that early Tuesday morning, long before things got going at what has been operated for a long time more like a circus tent than the house where elected representatives are expected to conduct the people’s business, the revelers, the punters, the pundits, as well as regular residents were gathered in Constitution Park—the majority costumed in United Workers Party yellow.

Conceivably the lone statue in the park (Sir John Compton, right arm raised in the manner of Olympian legends Tommie Smith and John Carlos of the USA) offered further encouragement to those who grew up convinced the parliament building and its environs were UWP turf, in much the same way starry-eyed followers of the Labour Party consider consecrated ground the area at the front of the Castries market.

While the costumed chanters and dancers performed for the press videocams and others bearing cell phones, somewhere inside the parliament building the gladiators prepared for the day’s games, including for the first time a resolution for a vote of no-confidence in Prime Minister Allen Chastanet—the result of which was as predictable as

the location of the Saint Lucia sun at 6.30 in the morning. In all events, the action got underway close to two hours behind schedule, with the normally inviting countenance of Speaker Andy Daniel hidden behind a kind of kabuki mask of frowning belligerence.

The day’s prayer having been delivered by a graybearded presumed agent of god, the honorable men and ladies of parliament settled down in their leather chairs in anticipation of the day’s air-conditioned fixed fight. No sooner had the opposition leader presented his motion than a member on the government side challenged its constitutionality, on the basis it addressed only the prime minister and by his given name.

The objector depended on Section 60 of the Saint Lucia Constitution that speaks only to motions of “no-confidence in the government.”

There was every reason to believe, judging by the Speaker’s demeanor, that this was not the first time a member on the government side had served him the particular objection to the motion before him. In any case he was ready to defend his decision that it would be debated regardless.

Those who disagreed with his take on the House rules, so went the pundits in red, were free to hit the Speaker with an injunction.

He opened with a reminder that there had been a time when he was referred to, not as “Mr. Speaker, but as Your Worship.” Meaning, he once had been a court magistrate. “The Lady Justice was supposed to be blind,” he said. “She was not supposed to see anything. But the nature of the life we live, even though as a magistrate one was not supposed to know the evidence beforehand, you hear things because you’re human.” He didn’t leave his more attentive listeners time to decipher his somewhat cryptic message.

“I have my son here, somewhere in the gallery,” he revealed, “and I’ve said to him that biology dictates that you see not by light leaving your eye to the object but by light from the object coming into your eye. That’s how we see.”

If the already confused now had more reason to rattle their mental marbles, he offered relief from their discomfort: “I say all of this because I’ve heard over the last two weeks or so, I’ve listened, I’ve ignored.

And though some may say the role of the Speaker is this or that, I say to you that when I, Andy Daniel, sit in this chair as Speaker I mean to be fair to members of this honorable House.”

He seemed to change horses midstream. Arms folded on his chest, he leaned

Nothing beats a workout outdoors, especially when the Onlookers in Constitution Park on Tuesday got a preview of what to

forward so that his elbows rested on the table immediately in front of him. “Now let’s get down to the substantive motion.” He addressed the parliamentary horsefly that had challenged the correctness of the opposition leader’s no-confidence motion and the Speaker’s accommodation of it: “Honorable member for Southeast Castries,” he said, in a tone atypically commanding.

“Before and on the onset, I will give you my ruling and then my

reason for it. There is nothing unconstitutional about this motion being in the name of the honorable prime minister, or in his office, or in any other minister or member sitting at this table. Reference is being made to various sections of the Constitution of this country, in particularly [sic] Section 60.6, with references also made to 54 and other sections of the Constitution.”

He paused to pick up some papers from his desk, then

observed that the Constitution, under Section 53, states that subject to the provisions of the Constitution the Senate and the House may each regulate its own procedure and may in particular make rules for the proper conduct of its own proceedings. This authority, he suggested, “is best summarized in our Standing Orders. The authority to make our rules on any matter that we so choose.”

What! I can imagine no worse interpretation of a rule than

THE STAR

february 02, 2019

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ives Magistrates Opposition!

y when the weather’s fine. of what to expect come Independence!

Speaker Andy Daniel’s at Tuesday’s sitting. His predecessor Wilfred St. Clair Daniel must be turning over in his grave. What a fiasco, considering it was largely on the basis of that absolutely flawed interpretation by the Speaker that Tuesday’s debate was entertained.

The point is: Section 53 of the Constitution does not give the speaker the authority "to make rules on any matter that we choose.”

What the cited section does is make room for the House to

modify, from time to time, regular procedures not necessarily involving the Speaker. For example: House rules allow each MP an hour to speak during a debate. If a member should find himself or herself requiring more time to complete his or her contribution, the House rules provide for members to vote on the request. On the other hand, the prime minister and the leader of the opposition may agree in advance of a session

that certain members will be allowed more than their regular time allotment, an agreement that the Speaker normally honors without hesitation. This by no means translates into Speaker Daniel’s “authority to make rules on any matter we choose.”

He turned to another document, from which he read: “Section 21 of our Standing Order says: ‘Subject to section 48 of the Constitution and to these Standing Orders any member may propose by way of motion any matter for debate in the House.’ ” It remains unclear to me what the Speaker intended to convey when he cited Section 21. To the best of my knowledge there was never a challenge to the right of “any member to propose any motion to this House.” Rather, the contention centered on whether it was legal to move a motion against the prime minister by name as opposed to a motion against the government as a whole.

Was this yet another example of the Speaker tripping over the roots of a tree he planted? He went on: “Let me go one step further. The idea that a single member on the government side should not be the subject of a motion of no confidence is wrong and our court, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, has so ruled.”

Why was it wrong? By what section of the House orders?

As the Speaker read from a recent court judgment, I was reminded of an earlier House session, prior to the 2016 general elections, when it seemed the Speaker of the House (a QC) sought to serve the Southeast Castries MP Guy Joseph a quick course on the subject of contract law, a gift that the MP unforgettably

returned to sender—with the recommendation that the Speaker to stick to his role and not permit himself to be perceived as a participant in a debate rather than a referee.

He was, after all, not an elected MP. Besides, said the MP Joseph, “Why are you giving me a lesson in contract law? Since when dat’s your role?”

To my mind, having cited his authority (whether or not egregiously misconstrued) to allow the day’s debate, the Speaker should’ve allowed it to get underway without reference to court precedents that in any event had not undergone their final test. The House operates by its own rules, true; but is not a courtroom. Regardless of their former lives, House Speakers are not expected to function as if presiding over courts of law. For a time Speaker Daniel sounded in my ears as if he were the opposition’s defense counsel.

I need not go into the commonplace House shenanigans witnessed on Tuesday. Suffice it to say, the regular bad behavior paled into insignificance after that amateurish interpretation of Section 53. As to the relevance in the day’s debate of Section 21 of the Standing Orders, I’m still trying to come to terms with that.

I will refrain from flogging a dead horse, unlike the Southeast Castries MP Guy Joseph at Tuesday’s debate. He took the no-confidence motion apart, limb by broken limb, finally declaring the doomed document as “a market-steps motion unfit to be debated in this honorable House; not worthy of a parliamentarian with a quarter century of experience.” He said the motion comprised “value judgments,

uninformed opinions, speculation and untruths.”

And in truth, the opposition was reduced to reaching back eight or more years for mud to sling at the image of Prime Minister Allen Chastanet. That every member of the opposition seemed to be reading from the same script spoke unflattering volumes.

The leader of the opposition and others on his side actually stooped low enough to insinuate members on the government side had behind closed doors declared the prime minister unfit for office but for various unidentified reasons were demonstrating their love for self over country. The sickening suggestion made a mockery of the earlier declared motive behind the motion. On several occasions before Tuesday, leading opposition politicians had stated publicly the sole purpose for proposing the motion was to remove the prime minister “in the best interests of the country.”

More privately the party’s Cassandras admitted the motion had been conceived as a mechanism for removing Allen Chastanet from his position, by tossing every variety of dirt in his direction—as if already that had not proved countless times, long before 2016, during the year’s election campaign and at every other opportunity, an altogether pointless endeavor.

Then there were the opposition’s supposed advisors, self-convinced that the MPs for Choiseul, Central Castries and Gros Islet would join Castries North’s Stephenson King in the assassination of Allen Chastanet’s character for the benefit of the opposition’s no-confidence motion.

Ironically, the first MP to turn

uncharacteristically vicious on the opposition’s initiative was the MP for Choiseul, the normally low-keyed Bradley Felix. He was followed by a particularly energized Sarah Flood-Beaubrun, whose performance in support of the prime minister brought to mind the “Sister Sarah” of 1996-97, when she was campaigning with Kenny Anthony for the removal of Prime Minister Vaughan Lewis.

“The problem the SLP now faces,” she said, “is that they cannot find anyone willing to lead them.” As if she had never heard of the presenter of the day’s noconfidence motion. The MP for Micoud North, Gale Rigobert, also took the opportunity, to prove she can bare her teeth, blood-red lipstick be damned, when there’s easy meat to be disposed off.

Finally, it fell to Southeast Castries MP Guy Joseph to finish off the sheep that would be a bull. But already we’ve visited the bloody spectacle. As every reader of this column must already know, Philip Pierre’s motion was upside down crucified: the prime minister received the unqualified support of his Cabinet eleven.

Perhaps the saddest aspect of Tuesday’s spectacle was the recorded moment, immediately following the vote count, when the leader of the opposition bent down like a wet noodle from his seat, picked his briefcase off the floor and shuffled, his chin on his chest, out of the chamber, unacknowledged by his huddled together, smiling party colleagues. There was a time when everywhere that Mary went the lambs were sure to go.

No more, evidently.

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What was the Point of Pierre’s No-Confidence Motion? motion was possible. Pay careful attention to the fact that it was carefully worded to highlight no-confidence in the prime minister and not in the government; a means perhaps to take advantage of whatever division there might be in Cabinet. Pierre even hinted at this in the House on Tuesday, challenging government MPs to say in public what they had been saying in private about Allen Chastanet.

Add to that the now infamous “new prime minister

by Christmas” prognostication from an SLP organised “people’s platform” and it is more than fair to speculate that

Dean Nestor

O

pposition MPs and other Labour front-liners were on hand on Tuesday to justify their party leader’s noconfidence motion, designed to expose to the world what they considered Allen Chastanet’s outrageously unconstitutional actions in government. The result was predictable, of course. As former senate president Claudius Francis and SLP chairman stated: “They have an 11-6 majority. So one expects the motion to be defeated in terms of numbers.

But that has never been the aim of the motion. The aim of the motion is to lay bare for the public of Saint Lucia and the world the misdemeanours in some instances and other misbehaviours committed by this government over the last thirty months.”

But what it may have done is fire up Chastanet’s grassroots support as well as that of his government colleagues.

If there were dissenting voices before the motion, they finally came together to dismiss the opposition’s motion as a “waste of time”. And as each domino fell on what was really a no-chance motion, and each government MP said “nay” to it in the early hours of Wednesday, it became abundantly clear that the motion quite possibly had the opposite effect to what was originally intended.

It’s been well established that supporters of the SLP tend to be more easily mobilised and hyped up for political spectacles like Tuesday’s debate. But in a stunning inversion of the norm, the battle of the party fanatics belonged to the UWP. At least half of them were carrying posters of Allen Chastanet; one even paid mocking homage to a former Prime Minister by ringing the bell all morning long.

Of course, the loudest cheer was reserved for the arrival of Chastanet himself. A hint for what was to come.

Just before the commencement of proceedings, Castries Southeast MP Guy Joseph was asked by a reporter about the government’s

Chastanet supporters in at full throttle outside parliament on Tuesday.

opposition throughout the day, to the point they turned to Allen Chastanet’s life before he was prime minister. Over and over government MPs taunted: “Why are we debating issues that have already been debated in this Honourable House?”

The question, unfortunately for the opposition members, cut right to the heart of what was lacking in the motion and why they had such a tough day at the office; their Roberto Duran “no más” moment coming at around 8 p.m., when the opposition leader called for a vote on the motion. The government refused to acquiesce, extending the tortuous affair for a further four hours before mercifully laying it to rest.

Even when Pierre and his counterparts were listing their plethora of reasons why Chastanet should no longer be prime minister, it quickly became apparent that there was nothing that had not yet been aired before in public and forcefully debated in parliament. Criticisms both fair and unfair had already been made on platforms both in and out of the House, further highlighting the lack of a logical reason to place this motion in the House. To be fair, it’s plausible that at some point the opposition Claudius Francis claims the true purpose of the genuinely believed that a motion was not to overthrow the PM, but to expose to successful no-confidence

debating strategy. “Why should I tell you my strategy?” he asked, a sly grin cutting across his face. Of course, the interested world would soon see the strategy unfold: nonstop challenges in the face of opposition assertions and errors. Much of the government’s artillery was aimed at the perceived weakest member opposite, Castries East MP and opposition leader Philip J. Pierre. The point of order blitz was demonstrably effective.

Castries South MP

Ernest Hilaire defended the constitutionality of the motion.

“I will lead you to an article by a constitutional expert who explains there are three types of no-confidence motions,” he said. “There have been many no-confidence motions. There have been no-confidence motions in individuals before.

But somebody believes that they can throw out this story, that it is unconstitutional.”

This inability to simply focus on the alleged misdeeds of Allen Chastanet plagued the

the world the misdemeanours of his government.

the overthrow of the PM might have been the initial aim of the motion.

Its eventual stated aim: “To lay bare for the public of Saint Lucia and the world the misdemeanours in some instances and other misbehaviours committed”

by Allen Chastanet and his government. Whatever else it may sound like, the line reads more like an attempt to save face. Thus, we got nothing revolutionary or groundbreaking on Tuesday. What we got was a redrawing of Saint Lucian political battle lines. And now the question is: What next for Philip J. Pierre?

WASCO Debunks Fletcher and Hilaire Comments

T

he Water & Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO) has been made aware of an interview aired on McDowall Broadcasting Television (MBC Television) on January 22, 2019 with former government minister Dr. James Fletcher concerning the John Compton Dam De-silting Project. There has also been a publicised Newsspin interview with Dr. Ernest Hiliare who made aspersions questioning the tender process for the de-silting of the John Compton/Roseau Dam and the condition of the Sediment Disposal Area (SDA).

These interviews portray a false perception that the de-silting of the dam is not progressing as it should and that WASCO did not conduct the tendering process for the awarding of contracts for this project.

WASCO would like to state in no uncertain terms that the de-silting of the John Compton Dam project was done through a competitive bidding process.

Phase 1 was opened up to only local contractors mainly because WASCO was of the view that since Phase 1 entailed civil works there were several local contractors that had the capacity to construct the SDA and indeed a local contractor was a successful competitive bidder. However, Phase 2 was opened to International Competitive Bidding in light of the highly technical skills required for the dredging component of the project.

The tender process for Phase 2 was also subject to oversight by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Furthermore, at all times the National Utilities Regulatory Commission was aware of the process to be undertaken by WASCO for the use of the dredging fees for the dredging of the dam for Phases 1 and 2.

Therefore, the aspersions being made in public are unfounded and most unfortunate. As a result WASCO would like to publicly proclaim that it has at all times acted within competitive bidding procurement rules and guidelines for the de-silting project and is committed to do all within its power to ensure the successful completion of same.

WASCO advises that in the future people should verify the true facts before misleading the general public.

THE STAR

february 02, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

15

VISIT OF DELEGATION OF CARICOM MEMBER STATES TO THE UN SECRETARY-GENERAL

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n Monday, 28 January 2019 a delegation of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), comprising Dr Timothy Harris, Chairman of CARICOM, Mia Mottley and Dr. Keith Rowley (prime ministers of St. Kitts and Nevis, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, respectively) plus Peter David, Foreign Minister of Grenada and H.E. Irwin LaRocque, CARICOM Secretary-General, as well as the permanent representatives of these countries, met with the United Nations SecretaryGeneral H.E. Antonio Guterres to discuss the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

The CARICOM delegation expressed its grave concern over the untenable situation in Venezuela. The delegation strongly urged that further deterioration would seriously aggravate the plight of

M

CARICOM heads of state and foreign affairs ministers encouraged other members of the UN to decide on how best to address the Venezuela situation.

Venezuelans. The Caribbean Community is steadfast that the region must remain a zone of peace.

The CARICOM delegation emphasised its commitment to

the tenets of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter which calls on states to refrain from the threat or the use of force. CARICOM has been consistent in the critical importance it accords to the key

THAT MOTION OF NO CONFIDENCE

y first reaction to the opposition arguments on the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Allen Chastanet was to thank God for removing me from that SLP environment that so wickedly pervades and perverts the minds of the opposition. It’s an ill wind that blows no good.

My other reaction was to observe that almost everything that was said against the prime minister’s stewardship was more applicable to the former SLP prime minister. I understand a little better now why the opposition had earlier sought to make the last general elections a contest “between the SLP and the Chastanets”. The fear of the Chastanet family reached its zenith in the opposition benches during the recent debate.

My third and perhaps most damning observation is that the opposition fully understood the social and economic mess with which it saddled the Allen Chastanet government, and which in the name of politics it unashamedly tried to transfer to poor Allen Chastanet.

The most glaring Machiavellian touch was its last-minute budget in 2016 minus any policy guidelines, which it left behind for the

incoming Allen Chastanet government to navigate. It was a vile and vicious move that could have emanated only from an evil, wicked and demented mind. That was neither politics nor cricket! The island’s uncared-for public buildings which the opposition left behind, stand in silent testimony to the neglect by a clueless SLP government. The words that kept popping-up in my mind as I listened to opposition speaker after opposition speaker is ‘shameless liars’.

I accurately read the tea leaves when I heard the impassioned and informed statement from the Minister of Education Hon. Gale Rigobert.

I was surprised she did not get anyone from the opposition to vote No!

Throughout the early part of the debate the opposition kept asking the government side to examine their consciences and to render a yes vote. Unfortunately, during their long time at bat, no opposition member elected or selected had shown any compassion for the country or the common folks who voted them into office.

They could not hide their naked lies even when debating a simple motion in the House. And

walking off when the vote was going against him did the leader of the opposition no good. I suspect it was the last nail in a coffin; even Anthony and Hilaire would like to see a quick burial.

We learned that genetic make-up and character will show, no matter how one tries to disguise it. My grandmother used to say, “Show me a liar and I will show you a thief.” A shameless person will amount to nothing, no matter how well he or she is dressed or clothed.

I end by repeating something I have said and written about on several occasions. The arrogant SLP opposition never accepted the results of the June 2016 general elections which they had called and organised. The UWP as a party, and the Allen Chastanet government, must never stop reminding the people of Saint Lucia that the SLP has no respect for them. The UWP must therefore dedicate the next two and a half years to making Saint Lucians feel respected, valued and confident in their efforts at building a more united, better and stronger nation, socially, economically and spiritually under God. ---Peter Josie

principles of non-interference and non-intervention. CARICOM reaffirmed the view that there was an urgent need for meaningful dialogue leading to a peaceful internal solution for the Venezuelan people.

The Caribbean Community is resolute in its belief that it is never too late for dialogue since the consequences of no dialogue will be dire.

The United Nations Secretary General extended his offer of good offices, circumstances permitting, to facilitate dialogue and negotiation between the parties.

The CARICOM delegation indicated its readiness to work assiduously to bring the parties to the negotiating table.

To this end, the visiting CARICOM Heads of Government

engaged with various Permanent Representatives from Canada, the Russian Federation, the European Union and the African Union. They also engaged with the President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the Foreign Minister of Mexico with a view to reduce tensions and build a platform for dialogue. Further engagements are taking place as the situation remains fluid.

Job Opportunity: Chef Supervisor - Iyanola Executive Lounge (IEL) Are you looking to join our team?

• Do you have experience working in a kitchen?

• Are you able to communicate clearly with managers, kitchen staff, dining room personnel and guests?

• Are you able to reach, bend, stoop and lift up to 50lbs?

• Will you be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time, up to 9 hours?

• Are you a holder of a valid health card?

If you answered ‘yes’ to the questions listed above, and you possess the following experience and qualifications, then this opportunity is for you: • Diploma in Culinary Arts / Certificate in Culinary Arts • Secondary school certificate (CXC passes including English, Mathematics, and Food & Nutrition • Minimum of 5 years of experience in varied kitchen position.

• At least 6 months experience in a similar capacity.

• Dependable, flexible, safety conscious, courteous, team player Other important information: Reports to: Manager - Iyanola Executive Lounge Liaises with: Internally - Airport Manager - Hewanorra International Airport

Externally - Passengers / guests / Lounge membership holders Applications should be addressed to: Senior Manager Human Resources

Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority

PO Box 651 Manoel Street Castries Or emailed to: humanresource@slaspa.com Deadline for submission of applications: Friday 8th February 2019

16 LOCAL

february 02, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

The Rural Unkown

Drought and Dengue

By Keithlin Caroo

E

arlier this week, the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) issued a prediction of drought and dry spells for the Caribbean region. This forecast is said to last until the end of April and would include heatwaves and warmer than normal temperatures. In the same week,

the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) released a warning that there could be a possibility of a severe outbreak of dengue fever in the region, and citizens are being encouraged to play their role in reducing breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

These two warnings seem to have been unheard by the public, when they should have sent out trigger warnings.

In a region that is ill-

equipped for drought and where many do not have pipe-borne water or the appropriate receptacles, such as covered tanks, to properly store water, open air storage containers are the norm, even more so during a drought.

Furthermore, research has shown that incidences of drought can increase the risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika. Mosquito eggs

RETAIL EXECUTIVE- responsible for developing and leading a professional retail sales team to ensure achievement of revenue targets, operational goals and 100% customer satisfaction. We need an individual who can own the customer service experience!

This individual will be required to perform the following duties: • Ensure a high standard of pre and post sales customer service at retail outlets.

• Perform and initiate continuous team member training.

• Perform operational tasks to maintain audit-ready status in store at all times.

• Schedule and assign employees & following up on work results.

• Performance Management of Retail Channel.

• Ensure optimal inventory levels are maintained at retail outlets.

• Ensure effective display of inventory at retail outlets.

• Preparation of periodic performance reports.

• Assist in the development of specific promotional activities aimed at driving sales.

• Maximize sales and profitability of retail outlets.

• Maintain operations by initiating, coordinating and enforcing program, operational, and personnel

policies and procedures.

• Resolve escalated customer complaints with optimal solutions.

• Maintain successful relations with key partners.

Requirements: • Professional qualification – Degree in Business, Management or a related field • Minimum 2 years’ experience in a related field • Strong motivational, influencing and organizational skills • Strong interpersonal, leadership and communication skills • Proven ability to work effectively in a team and under pressure • Computer literacy and experience in the use of Microsoft Office applications Compensation & Benefits: We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package which will be influenced by the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

All interested person are required to submit their CVs to HR@the-cell.com on or before Sunday 10th February 2019.

Applications with resumes must be submitted to: The Managing Director The Cell (St. Lucia) Ltd. 82 Desir Drive Sans Souci, Castries

Two regional institutes have prognosticated incidences of drought and dengue in the next few months. These two plagues are mutually beneficial and paint a bleak picture for Saint Lucia’s public health in the upcoming months.

are fragile and cannot survive in flowing or agitated waters.

However, standing water—as can be found in open-air tanks— facilitates the growth of these mosquito eggs, which in turn would create the perfect habitat for the spread of diseases such as dengue.

With no regulations or policies in place for the appropriate ways to store water, and no back-up plans for households that cannot afford sealed water containers, these warnings paint a bleak situation for the coming months. This is exacerbated by the unavailability

of proper medical facilities to tend to persons who may be affected by these diseases.

With our public health agenda on the back burner, and our heavy dependence on tourism, this would not only affect Saint Lucia’s overall public health but could also impact tourism numbers, like when the Caribbean region was placed at Category 1 (having active Zika transmission) on the World Health Organization’s classification scheme for the Zika virus. If warnings from regional organisations such as CARPHA and CIMH don’t send up red flags, what will?

Valentine’s Day 5 course dinner

Keithlin Caroo is the founder of Helen's Daughters 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

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THE STAR

local

www.stluciastar.com

february 02, 2019

17

Successful Independence Pageant by Laborie Boys and Girls

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n Saturday January 26, 2019 a combined effort of the Laborie Boys’ and Laborie Girls’ Primary Schools saw the staging of their first Independence Pageant. The event was part of activities to celebrate Saint Lucia’s 40th anniversary of Independence, and was held in the hall of the Laborie Boys’ Primary School.

The pageant featured four boys and four girls appearing in the categories of: introductory number, professional wear, talent, creative wear and interview. The four girls who participated are Jheanne’ Divine Le Compte, Keithney Joseph, Zadee Chicot and Anita Mathurin. The four boys are Lenus Estaphane, Derrell Albert, Trevon Auguste and Ashtan Jn Baptiste. The event also had several side attractions which were much appreciated by the audience in the packed-to-capacity hall.

Walking away with the male winner title was Ashtan Jn. Baptiste who was crowned LPS Independence Prince 2019. He also won “Best

First ever Mr. Independence pageant set for Saturday

Senator Fortuna Belrose says it is time we provide support to both males and females.

T

he Miss Independence pageant has long been a regular part of the independence celebrations, with Gregory Lorde as chief organiser. Now he is turning his attention to a new pageant for males only. The first ever Mr. Independence pageant was launched in January under the theme “Embracing Diversity, the Key to Unity” because, says Lorde, “We believe it is timely in view of the many social problems currently facing our youth.”

Speaking at the launch, senator Fortuna Belrose applauded Mr. Lorde for taking up the challenge to produce pageants for both males and females. “For a long time we seem to have focused on affording our young women opportunities to propel themselves forward in our society. But our men have not received equal treatment in that regard.”

The Mr. Independence pageant has attracted eight contestants: Deshawn Augustin, representing Vieux Fort, Brendon Joseph of Castries South, Cardious Constantine of Dennery, Franeil Charlery of Gros Islet, Jamal Springer of Castries Central, Jamieson Edward of Castries Southeast, Sherquil Florence of Micoud, and Treasure Actille of Castries North.

The event takes place at the National Cultural Centre on Saturday 9 February, from 7 p.m.

---JSA

Talent” and “Best Interview”. His creative wear was woven out of paper and CDs.

The first runner-up among the boys, Trevon Auguste, won “Best Creative Wear”, “People’s Choice Award” and “Mr. Photogenic”.

Jhennae’ Divine Le Compte was crowned LPS Independence Princess 2019.

She portrayed Dame Pearlette Louisy in her professional wear appearance, while her creative wear featured colourful crepe paper. Jheanne’ also received the award for “Best Creative Wear”, “Miss Photogenic” and

the “People’s Choice” award.

The first runner-up was Anita Mathurin who also won the “Best Talent” award.

The organising committee, principals and staff would like to thank the persons who contributed to a successful event including the parents, students and patrons.

The Laborie Primary Schools offer special thanks to Dr. Emsco Remy, Dr. Tamara

Remy, Dr. Ravi Chiquot, Dr. Jacqueline Bird, WINERA Limited, SMJ Beverages, WLBL, La Place Salaizon, Peter & Company Distribution, M&C Drug Store, Cost U Less, Laborie Credit Union, Lazarus Funeral Home, Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, St James Morgan Bay Resort, Frangies Kids, Neil’s Printing, Hair Plus, Trophy Center, Unicomer, Yves Renard, Julian Dubois, Sandy

Collymore, Sancha Sadoo, Kimberlie Emile, Shayan Skinner, Perry Longville, 3Fold Imaging, Verline Monrose, Carlyle Powell, Keran Le’Compte, Camla Eduard and the Independence40 Committee.

The schools are eternally grateful for all of the support afforded them. Proceeds from the event will go towards graduation expenses and a Duplo duplicator and printing machine.

we're hiring

Digicel is looking for a top candidate to fill the role of Service Delivery Project Manager. job overview The Service Delivery Project Manager coordinates the installation and delivery of services to end users in accordance with the Digicel’s high service level targets for the CARCIP/FTTB project. This position will manage the fulfillment activities on the islands of St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenada. This team member plays a crucial role in ensuring timely delivery of service and strategic solutions to clients with exemplary service and communication. main duties and responsibilities: • Point of contact to manage the Fulfillment activities to a variety of fiber optic projects to include fiber to Government sites, Schools, Civic Centers, Large, Medium and Small Businesses.

• Establishing processes to account for end to end workflow that identify all turn-key touch points necessary to fulfill contractual obligations specific within a particular customer engagement • Develop, communicate and maintain the entire process from completion of sale through first bill to the customer.

• Manage the life cycle of all closed-won opportunities from the receipt of the signed proposal to the completion of service installation and hand off for timely invoicing.

• Communicate prompt, accurate and clear statuses of assigned orders • Review and report status delivery metrics of both internal service groups and external value add vendors as well as make recommendations to improve results • Implement continuing improvements to maximize the company’s operating productivity, quality, efficiency and reporting of fulfillment methods in a manner that is consistent with both industry standards and company objectives • Manage external fulfillment processes and reporting of third party activities.

• Ensure accurate tracking and reconciliation of all fulfillment activities for this project.

• Able to plan and efficiently schedule responsibilities to ensure maximum productivity and responsiveness to client needs and project schedules • Collaborate with warehouse to track material usage and ensure proper inventory levels are maintained.

• Coordinate with internal team members to ensure accurate and timely delivery of orders • Organize and prioritize multiple work assignments with attention to detail • Implement company-wide initiatives and direct contractors including Fulfillment and Service, Fault Rate reduction, Plant Security and TQA as well as Dispatch and Workforce Management areas.

• Ensure all crews have all specified safety gear per SHEQ requirements. Safety is very important and our crews must maintain a professional appearance.

• Other duties as assigned from time to time. qualifications and experience: • 5 years of fulfillment experience in the telecom industry • Basic understanding of fiber design.

• Ability to communicate clearly with clients and business contacts in a professional and courteous manner • Knowledge of management principles and practices • Well-organized, accurate, and attentive to details; excellent communication and public relation abilities; strong computer application skills as related to applicable construction management programs; ability to work in a team environment, assist, and support others as needed.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment • Motivated to meet deadlines and achieve goals • Skilled in written and oral communication To apply for this position, you should forward your resume to: Digicel St. Lucia Ltd., Massade, Gros Islet, P.O. GM791, or email to SLU_HR@digicelgroup.com Deadline for submission: Friday, February 1st, 2019 PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY SHORT LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED. © 2019 Digicelgroup.com All Rights Reserved.

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January Science Month | Jan 9th Pli Bel Vilaj | Jan 11th Pli Bel Kaye Komesyal | Jan 11th National Fast | Jan 14th Nobel Laureate Week | Jan 14-27th Morning Devotions | Jan 14-31st Sunday Morning Praises | Jan 14-Feb 26th National Awards of Excellence | Jan 15th Launch of Schools Sports | Jan 18th National Music Festival | Jan 21st Exhibition “40 Years On” | Jan 23- Mar 31st Saturday Morning Praise & Worship | Jan 26th Laborie Primary School Independence Pageant | Sat. 26th January 2019 20 Meets 20 Mixer (Mentorship Programme)| Jan 31st Legacy Projects Announced | Jan 31st

February Morning Devotions | Feb 1-22nd Legacy Independence Calypso Show | Feb 2nd Handover of Monument (Mindoo Phillip Park) | Feb 9th Independence Dominoes Competition | Feb 9th Department of Commerce Client Valentine’s Day Showcase | Feb 12th Mr Independence Pageant | Feb 9th 3rd Test Match | Feb 9-13th Morning Devotions | Feb 11th-22nd Renaming of Serenity Park | Feb 13th Corporate Fast | Feb 14th-21st Prayer Trail | Feb 14th-22nd Miss Independence Pageant | Feb 15th 39th Annual Sports Awards | Feb 16 Strides of Unity | Feb 17th Ecumenical Services | Feb 17th FREEDOM - The Ultimate Independence Patriotic Cruise | Feb 17th District Independence Rally (District I - Gros Islet Secondary School) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District II -

february 02, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Castries Comprehensive Auditorium) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District III Sacred Heart Church, Marchand)| Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District IV Stanley Jon Odlum Memorial Secondary) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District IV Clendon Mason Memorial School Ground) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District V Clendon Mason Memorial School Ground) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District VI Lady of Assumption, Vieux Fort) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District VII Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Choiseul) | Feb 20th District Independence Rally (District VIII Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, Soufriere) | Feb 20th Arrival of Clubs & Welcome Party | Feb 20th Unveiling of Sculpture “All In” | Feb 21st 4 x 4 Excursion | Feb 21st Independence Rally and Award of Excellence | Feb 21st Best of Saint Lucia | Feb 21st Creole Poetry Competition Launch | Feb 21st The Saint Lucia Story | Feb 21st Independence Day Walk | Feb 22nd Prime Minister’s Official Address | Feb 22nd Independence Road Relay | Feb 22nd Military Parade | Feb 22nd Independence Day Parade | Feb 22nd Wolaylabar Cricket Match (Marchand) | Feb 22nd Super MotoX | Feb 22nd Independence Island Ride | Feb 22nd Marchand Street Fair | Feb 23rd Mud Warz 2- Caribbean 4x4 Invasion | Feb 23rd Prime Minister’s Ball | Feb 23rd DASH Independence Colour Run | Feb 24th Bikers Independence Round the Island | Feb 24th Independence Drags | Feb 24th

Park and Chill BBQ | Feb 24th Early Childhood Independence Extravaganza | Feb 24th Parliamentary Youth Debate | Feb 25th Saint Lucia History Part II | TBC Independence Sports & Games | TBC

March 5th ODI Match | Mar 2nd 1st T20 Match | Mar 5th International Women Day | Mar 8th World Consumers Rights Day | Mar 15th National Arts Festival | Mar 18-22nd World Poetry Day | Mar 21st World Water Day | Mar 22nd

april Good Deeds Day | Apr 7th National Youth Debate | Apr 8th Country & Western Dance | Apr 21st Total Praise Gospel Concert | Apr 21st World Book and Copyright Day | Apr 23rd National Arts Festival | Apr 26-29th Independence Sports Fun Day (Philip Marcellin) | Apr 28th

May Reading Month | May 1-31st World Press Freedom Day /Launch of Reading Month | May 3rd Soleil Saint Lucia Jazz Festival | May 4-11th

June Soleil Saint Lucia Carnival | June/July (culminating July 12-16) Culinary Event Competition | Jun 7th Public Service Week | June 7th Schools Calypso Competition | June 12th Fisherman’s Feast | June 29th

Homecoming | TBC ARTSFUZION | TBC Pli Bel Vilaj (Judging) | TBC Pli Bel Kaye Komesyal (Judging) | TBC

august Emancipation Art Exhibition | Aug 1-17th Soleil Saint Lucia Mercury Fest | Aug 9-10th Soleil Saint Lucia Roots & Soul Fest | Aug 23-25th La Woz Festival | Aug 24-30th ARTSFUZION | TBC

SepteMber Soleil Saint Lucia Food & Rum | Sep 1922nd ARTSFUZION | TBC

OctOber Soleil Saint Lucia Arts & Heritage Creole Festival | Oct 1-31st World Food Day | Oct 16th La Magwit | Oct 17th Creole Festival/Jounen Kweyol | Oct 27

nOveMber St. Cecelia’s Day “Feast of Musicians” | Nov 22nd Business Month | Nov 22-24th Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) | Nov 24th

December ARC Yacht Cruisers Flotilla | Dec 7th Report on Community Legacy Projects | Dec 12th Report on 20 Meets 20 Mixer (Mentorship Programme) | Dec 12th Grand Finale Church Service (Micoud) | Dec 13th

July International Cooperatives Day | July 6th Soleil Saint Lucia Carnival “Parade of the bands” | July 12-16th Emancipation Panel Discussion | July 27th Emancipation Exhibition Launch | July 31st

@independenceslu40 www.independence.lc

THE STAR

february 02, 2019

HEALTH

www.stluciastar.com

KIM’S KORNER Let’s Get Physical!

Physical activity and cardio-respiratory endurance are often what we call fitness.

It is our ability to run for the bus or manage to walk up ver the next few weeks more than two flights of stairs we are going to look at without getting breathless. The physical activity. The more efficient our heart and World Health Organization lungs at supplying muscles with defines physical activity oxygen, the easier we can cope as “movement of the body with extra demands. produced by muscles that

A good way of measuring requires energy expenditure”. this is to determine your We tend to think of exercise maximum heart rate (MHR) when we hear the term physical by subtracting your age from activity, but in fact physical 220. To obtain the maximum activity describes movement, benefit from activities, it is whether at work, rest or play; recommended that we work Physical activity, whether that means work or play, even doing housework. So why will help keep participants fit and strong. at 55-85% of our MHR for at the sudden interest in physical least 20-30 minutes, 2-3 times activity? Times are changing • Improves blood flow to and a week. Initially it will not take

Being physically active and it is now possible to shop, has many benefits: it can not from the heart long to reach this marker and play and communicate from the only lift your mood, but boost • Helps to control and lower our recovery may take some comfort of our armchairs. With cholesterol your energy levels and help time but, as our system grows the advent of the Internet and you sleep better. It can improve • Improves cardiac function more efficient, this will be advances in technology, it is • Reduces internal coordination, balance, agility, noticeably different. For people easy to fall into a sedentary way speed and reaction times. Most inflammation suffering from high blood of life, but this is not good for importantly, it can lower the risk • Improves mood, with less pressure this can be seen in our health. symptoms of depression, anxiety lower values at rest. It has also of developing life-threatening

The World Health and stress. diseases and help to improve been shown to have a positive Organization claims that lack

So, exactly how does the management of long-term effect on our cholesterol levels. of physical activity is one of the conditions. Some of the most physical activity help us to

Muscular strength is the leading risk factors for death common health related benefits: improve, prolong and extend the ability of the muscles to exert worldwide and a major risk • Improves blood glucose quality of our lives? For a long force. Strong muscles can also factor for health problems such levels and reduces risk of time it has been recognised that as stroke, heart disease, cancer diabetes our body responds to activity and diabetes. The change in and exercise but most times we • Reduces blood pressure lifestyle choices also affects just focus on the weight loss.

• Balances internal body young people, with more than systems to changing needs There are many other benefits to 80% of adolescents leading • Reduces the risk of blood being active that go way beyond more sedentary lifestyles. clots just losing weight.

O

help build strong bones. Every time we move, our muscles contract, but adding extra load can help build stronger muscles, and load does not necessarily mean heading to the gym. Doing push-ups and squats is a great way to use your body weight to improve muscle strength.

Muscular Endurance is the ability of our muscles to work without tiring. Our muscles adapt to what we do, so sitting in front of the TV or at a desk all day does not help improve our muscle stamina.

Muscle strength alone is not enough; we need to change our lifestyles to include activity that allows our muscles to work for

19

long periods—just going for long walks is enough to change the structure, function and performance of our muscles.

Flexibility is also important to the health of our muscles and joints. Tight muscles mean less movement, and performing a simple task, like reaching up to the top shelf, puts us at risk of overstretching and injuring a muscle.

All of these positive benefits will help you live a longer and healthier life. So take steps today to get moving, whether it’s going for a nice walk or joining the gym.

Next week we will consider other aspects of physical activity.

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

INVITATION TO TENDER

T

CARPHA: Reduce Risks of Catching Flu

he Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is urging persons to practise good personal hygiene in order to reduce the risk of transmission of influenza and other respiratory viruses.

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused mainly by two types of viruses: Influenza A and Influenza B. The Influenza A (H1N1) virus caused a pandemic in 2009. Although often referred to as “swine flu”, this name is misleading, as it is not spread by contact with pigs or pig products.

Influenza A (H1N1) is a virus that continues to circulate around the world, including the Caribbean.

Typically, the flu season in the region occurs from September to March when there is usually an increase in the number of persons coming down with the virus.

Flu is characterized by

a sudden onset of high fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and runny nose. Most people recover from these symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention, but influenza can cause severe illness or death in people at high risk.

Dr C. James Hospedales, Executive Director of CARPHA, explained that the primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact.

He added that large social events like carnival, festivals and concerts can create serious public health challenges because persons are often crowded together, sharing personal space and common areas.

Given elevated flu activity in the northern hemisphere, combined with the high travel season to the Caribbean, it is important that people take the necessary steps now, to protect

themselves and their loved ones from the flu.

CARPHA urges persons to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of transmission of influenza and other respiratory viruses.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease. Safe and effective vaccines have been available and used for over 60 years. Vaccination is especially important for health workers and people at higher risk of serious influenza complications, such as the very young, pregnant women, the elderly and chronically ill persons, and for people who live with or care for high-risk individuals.

Persons should contact their ministry of health or community health centre for more information about vaccination programmes.

For more information see the CARPHA Influenza Fact Sheet.

ATTENTION ELKS CITY OF CASTRIES COOPERATIVE CREDIT UNION MEMBERS The Board of Directors of the Elks City of Castries Cooperative Credit Union is calling on contractors from among its membership for the retrofitting and electrical installation at its new location on Chisel Street, Castries Members are asked to visit the General Manager for details of the floor plan and design All tenders should be placed in a sealed envelope addressed to: The Secretary Board of Directors Elks City of Castries Cooperative Credit Union Limited Cnr. Brazil & Coral Street Castries Tenders should reach the Secretary of the Board of Directors no later than February 15, 2019 By order- Board of Directors Elks City of Castries Cooperative Credit Union Limited

20 LOCal

february 02, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

DENNERY RESIDENT WINS DIGICEL’S ‘GIFT OF MORE’ GRAND PRIZE OF $15,000 HOME MAKEOVER

Sagicor Finance Makes Donation to Rotary Golf Tournament Finance Inc.

O

n Tuesday 29th January 2019, Sagicor Finance made a donation to the Rotary Club of Gros Islet for their 26th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. This is the largest fundraiser in the Rotary Club’s calendar of activities and the proceeds fund the majority of community projects throughout the

year.

This is the first for Sagicor Finance to sponsor this event and they look forward to future support Ms. Lenita Joseph, The President of the Rotary Club of Gros Islet received the cheque on behalf of the club from Mr. Rae Atkinson, General Manager of Sagicor Finance

The mission of Rotary International, a worldwide association of Rotary Clubs, is to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards and to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through its fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.

The Annual Charity Tournament is set to take place Saturday February 2nd from 8:30am at the Sandals Golf & Country Club.

Sagicor Finance is a Financial Institution which offers loans of various types from, vehicles (cars & buses), to machinery & equipment, premium financing, personal expenses, commercial/retail, debt consolidation. They also offer Fixed & Flexible Certificate of Deposits, as well as Goal Accounts.

Digicel's Marketing Manager, Jamisha Wright (left) with grand prize winner Leon Brin.

L

eon Brin of Dennery is the grand prizewinner of a home makeover valued at EC$15,000 in Digicel’s 2018 Christmas promotion dubbed The Gift of More.

Brin, who has been a Digicel customer for more than eight years, was all smiles when he was officially presented with his winnings which included household items and a complete paint job. He had been automatically entered into the Christmas promotion, becoming eligible for the grand prize, after

activating a Digicel Freedom LTE 7-day plan during the promotional period.

“These items for my home could not have come at a better time,” said Brin, who recently completed his two-bedroom dwelling. The Dennery man’s house was outfitted with a brand new three-piece sofa set, a smart TV, a washing machine, a stove, a refrigerator, curtains, bedroom set and bedding, a Samsung Galaxy tablet, J7 smartphone and a paint job to the exterior and interior of his new home.

Brin, in thanking Digicel for furnishing his home, stated, “This is truly living the experience.

Digicel is staying true to its promise and commitment to its customers. I am testimony that Digicel does what it says, and I encourage everyone to get on board and participate in all Digicel promotions.”

The 2018 Christmas promotion, The Gift of More, which ran from November 16 to December 28, 2018 was geared at rewarding all prepaid and postpaid customers in tangible ways, giving them the opportunity to win a number of items deemed necessary during the festive season.

Customers walked away with free smartphones, household appliances, smart TVs, resort passes, cash and groceries, among other items.

The campaign also encouraged non-Digicel customers to join Saint Lucia’s only island-wide LTE network by offering attractive incentives, including unlimited data for three months with any postpaid sign-up and the opportunity to win up to EC$100,000 in cash and prizes weekly.

THE WAVE 94.5 & 93.7FM IS GIVING YOU A CHANCE TO WIN A TRIP FOR TWO TO THE BIGGEST EVENT FOR TRINIDAD CARNIVAL…………MACHEL MONDAY!!

TWO WAYS TO QUALIFY!!

OPTION 1: Social Media

• Follow @theWaveStLucia @GoZippyFreight @CreamnBean on Instagram and Facebook and @ VisionExpressslu.

• Repost our Machel Monday Artwork on your Instagram and Facebook page using the hastag #RidetheWavetoTrinidad and tag @theWaveStLucia in your post.

YOU MUST COMPLETE ALL STEPS IN ITS ENTIRETY TO QUALIFY

OPTION 2: On Air • Listen for the Machel Sounder and call in at 452-3192 to identify a Machel Montano Song.

Promotion ends February 19th, Draw takes place February 20th live on the Wave Radio Station.

The winner and guest will receive an all-expense paid package to include: airfare, hotel accommodations, ground transfers, and tickets to Machel Monday event.

All participants must have a valid passport PRESENTED BY: THE WAVE 94.5 & 93.7FM SPONSORED BY: ZIPPY FREIGHT, CREAM N BEAN and Vision Express

THE STAR

HEALTH

www.stluciastar.com

february 02, 2019

21

Understanding Dementia

Posterior Cortical Atrophy

By Regina Posvar

movements in their limbs. The average life-span after onset of symptoms is 10-12 years, although some live longer.

There is no cure for PCA. However, some people can benefit from physical and occupational therapy.

Medication for Alzheimer’s is what is normally prescribed and if the person is irritable or depressed, an anti-depressant is given. It’s recommended you weigh the pros and cons when deciding to take medication.

P

osterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a condition that is a variant of Alzheimer’s disease. It is marked with the same plaques and tangles but it begins in a different part of the brain. PCA, also known as Benson syndrome, affects areas in the back of the brain that are primarily responsible for complex visual processing, special perception, spelling and calculations.

Some of the early symptoms of PCA would include blurred vision, difficulties reading and writing with nonvisual aspects of language preserved, problems with depth perception, increased sensitivity to bright light—even shiny surfaces, possibly double vision and difficulty seeing clearly in low light conditions. The person could have trouble accurately reaching out to pick up an object.

As the disorder progresses, other symptoms evolve such as getting lost while driving or walking in familiar places, misrecognition of familiar faces and objects, and, rarely, visual

PCA has some of the same symptoms as Alzheimer’s disease, and similar treatments, but how would you know the difference?

hallucinations. Calculation skills and the ability to make coordinated movements are affected in some cases.

Some people with PCA will go to see an eye doctor first, thinking that they need new glasses because of the changes with their eyes. It’s important to understand that visual impairment usually develops as we get older; in most cases, due to the natural aging process, we have a decline in our vision usually after the age of 40. In people with PCA, the

vision problem is not due to the natural aging process; rather, the shrinking brain can no longer interpret and process the information received from the person’s healthy eyes.

Typically, when first experiencing symptoms, the person is in their mid-fifties to mid-sixties. As PCA progresses, day-to-day memory, finding words and cognitive functions may become affected, which is typical of Alzheimer’s. In later progression, people may experience seizures and jerky

Be High Commissioner for a Day

I

nternational Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 every year and it celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women. In many places across the world, the progress is slow. Therefore global action is needed to raise awareness and accelerate gender parity.

Women and girls’ empowerment is essential to gender equality. Women and girls who are empowered are better equipped to fulfill their potential and contribute their best to society.

The Government of Canada is focusing on youth as one of its main priorities. The objective is to continue to engage young people and give them the means to contribute to society, because they are the ones who will shape tomorrow.

Prime Minister Trudeau chose the portfolio of Minister of Youth for himself to underscore his own commitment to youth empowerment. He also

established a Youth Council to allow young leaders to advise him and the Government of Canada on policies and programmes that are important to them. Additionally, the prime minister spearheaded Canada’s first gender-balanced cabinet and Canada’s Feminist Foreign policy.

Canada believes that girls’ rights are important and that more needs to be done to achieve greater gender equality in the Caribbean and around the world. In order to highlight this important global issue, the High Commission of Canada, based in Barbados, is pleased to launch this initiative for the third year in a row, providing an opportunity for youth to become Canada’s High Commissioner for a day on March 8, 2019.

The winner of the competition will attend meetings with senior diplomats and participate in external events organised to

create awareness about the importance of gender equality.

The competition is open to youth between the ages of 16 and 19 from any of the following seven countries: Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia and St. Vincent & the Grenadines. If the winner does not live in Barbados, the High Commission of Canada will fly him or her to that country and arrange accommodation during their stay.

You are invited to join the High Commission of Canada in encouraging more youth to aspire to becoming High Commissioner for a Day. Competition details: Youth aged 16-19 are invited to submit a 60-90 second video

by Facebook private message to www.facebook.com/ CanadainBarbados OR www. facebook.com/CanadaOECS answering the question: How can YOU champion Women’s rights in the Caribbean?

Questions about dementia: Q: I have noticed that one of my sisters is struggling with her memory. I have spoken to her about it and she is concerned too, but doesn’t do anything about it.

I think she forgets to make an appointment with her doctor. Also, I think she is embarrassed. How can I help her push through to go?

A: It is quite a challenge trying to get someone to the doctor for a check-up regarding memory because of the stigma attached to it. Encouraging your sister to check other health areas is an easier way to get her in. Most people do not go for routine check-ups, which should include brain health checks. This would help reduce the stigma. But this is not the norm, and people only go when something is wrong.

By that time, it has festered into something more. When a person detects a symptom in their body, they usually ignore it unless it is annoyingly painful or unsightly. When it comes to memory or thinking concerns, it doesn’t hurt, nor can anyone see it. So it’s not as easy as one might think to get a person to see a doctor. Does she have something else that she needs to see a doctor about? There are other ways to phrase the issue such as relating brain

health to checking vitamins and hormones, or making sure she is not deficient in any nutrient.

You can offer to go with her for support, and even get your own brain health check-up as preventative for you and extra support for her. The key is to keep trying. Early detection and good support will improve her quality of life as the disease progresses.

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.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for recruitment to fill two (2) vacant positions of

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE at the Hewanorra International Airport (HIA) Education and Certification: Five (5) CXC subjects including Mathematics and English.

Certificate in Customer Service will be an asset Experience: Minimum of three years experience in the service sector Job Summary: To ensure the prompt, courteous and effective processing of all customers.

Note that the successful applicant will be required to work a shift system which includes nights, weekends and public holidays.

Interested persons are asked to address applications to:Senior Manager – Human Resources Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority P. O. Box 651 Manoel Street Castries Applications should be clearly marked: Application for the post of Customer Service Representative Email: vacancy@slaspa.com DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: Friday, 8th February 2019 Please note that only suitable applications will be acknowledged.

22

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IT’S THE

BIGGEST

CLEARANCE

february 02, 2019 THE STAR

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THE STAR

february 02, 2019

Op-Ed for Caribbean States

by EU Commissioner for Economic and Financial Affairs, Taxation and Customs, PIERRE MOSCOVICI

T

ax evasion and avoidance affect us all. They eat away at public revenues, disrupt the level playing field for businesses and undermine the basic concept of fairness in our societies. That is why the EU has made fair taxation and the fight against tax abuse a top political priority over the past few years.

Our first step in this agenda was to mend our own fences. Within the EU, we have boosted tax transparency, clamped down on harmful tax practices and tackled unfair competition. We have gone beyond international standards and enshrined robust new measures for fair taxation into EU law, in a very short space of time.

However, businesses today operate in a truly global environment – and so do tax evaders and avoiders. As such, a fair tax agenda cannot be confined to within one country’s borders. To be effective, measures to prevent tax abuse must be applied globally. For that reason, the EU has been engaging extensively with the OECD to create a level playing field amongst all international players. In addition, and as part of its external strategy for fair taxation, EU Member States agreed to create an EU list of non-cooperative tax jurisdictions. This should be mutually reinforcing of the OECD efforts. Through the listing process, the EU is calling on its partners to make the necessary reforms to comply with internationally recognised tax standards.

The EU listing process covers all countries around the world, regardless of their size or location. EU neighbours and candidate countries, G20 and OECD members, micro-states and large financial hubs are all within its scope. It does not target any specific region or jurisdiction. What it targets are the loopholes and lapses in tax good governance that enable tax abuse to flourish.

The EU list was conceived to address threats to our

The comissioner says that taxation is crucial to political relations between EU and Caribbean states.

Member States' tax bases.

However, it has evolved into something much wider than just a listing exercise. It has prompted unprecedented engagement between the EU and its international partners, on tax issues that matter to us all. It has allowed frank and open discussions on the rules of the game in today's fast-paced, globalised and digitalised economy. It has given EU countries a chance to hear from smaller and developing countries that have more difficulties in making their voice heard on the international tax stage. In fact, thanks to the EU listing process, dozens of countries have been brought into international fora such as the Global Forum and the Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) Inclusive Framework for the first time. On these platforms, more than 100 countries and jurisdictions discuss how to prevent strategies that exploit gaps and mismatches in tax rules to avoid taxation.

These countries now have a place at the table when it comes also to shaping the future standards and good governance agenda – an opportunity that should be seized with both hands. This is particularly important for those jurisdictions working to build a

INTERNATIONAL 23

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strong, credible and resilient financial services sector.

Adhering to high standards of tax good governance can help entice offshore businesses onshore, thereby creating high quality jobs and boosting the local economy.

The EU fully understands the specific vulnerabilities of the small island developing states and coastal states of the Caribbean. We understand their need to find new sources of growth. As the biggest donor in the region, the EU provides millions of euros to address the specific challenges that the Caribbean region faces, including promoting the use of renewable energy, tackling crime, enhancing security and promoting investment for economic growth.

The EU and the Caribbean states have strong historical, economic and cultural ties; the strength of our relations is reflected in the Cotonou Agreement and EU-CARIFORUM Economic Partnership. Taxation may be just one element in our longstanding relationship – but it is an important one, which should be part of our closer political engagement. In recognition of the administrative capacity constraints that many Caribbean countries face, the EU has put in place a technical support programme through the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC), to assist these administrations to make the necessary legal and technical adjustments to their financial regimes in order to be compliant with international standards.

The EU list of noncooperative tax jurisdictions is not the end goal. Rather, the goal is to promote the highest level of tax good governance globally, so that all taxpayers and countries can enjoy the benefits of fair taxation. I believe that the EU and Caribbean partnership can benefit immensely from joining forces in this quest.

FOR SALE White 30" (6) Burner continental gas stove Good condition Best offer! Need to sell!

Contact:

720 5046

Property for Sale On the Micoud Highway 3,850 sq ft excellent location close to everything. 7500 sq ft of land.

Unfinished concrete building consisting of 2 floors, a ground floor and a first floor 60% complete.

Ground floor consists of 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living room, dining room, kitchen and car port First floor consists of 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, living room, dining room, kitchen and verandah.

Call: 758 285 4391

LAND FOR SALE 32,670 square feet of land in Vieux Secrieux, Corinth, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

for more details

Call:758 285 4391

Online Classifieds

Land for Sale In Balata as low as $70,000.00

Get maximum exposure for your dollar.

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

Call: 285 0724 For more info.

INVITATION FOR TENDERS To supply and install computers and related equipment at the Boys Training Centre – Gros Islet, St. Lucia The National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission invites tenders from eligible Telecommunications Providers and Computer Suppliers to supply computer and related equipment at the Boys Training Centre – Gros Islet, St. Lucia. Funding for this project is provided from the Universal Service Fund.

Further information and tender documents may be obtained from: The Universal Service Fund Administrator National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission 1st and 2nd Floor Rajana Group of Companies Building Bois D’Orange, Gros – Islet P.O. Box GM 690 Castries Saint Lucia West Indies Tel: (758)458-2035 E-mail: ntrc_slu@candw.lc cc. sjones@ectel.int The deadline for the submission of sealed tenders is 12:00p.m, March 12th 2019 at the office of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission. Late bids will be rejected.

A nominal fee of $ 50.00 will be charged for copies of documents.

SATURDAY, february 02, 2019

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