Happy Fortieth St. Lucia!

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23 Feb, 2019 Issue 19 |

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Happy Fortieth St. Lucia!

Photo by Bill Mortley

SATURDAY, february 23, 2019

Happy th Independence Anniversary Saint Lucia • Tel: (758) 450-0021 / 31 / 728 1000 • Fax: (758) 450-0092 • Email: info@bluewatersslu.com • Website: www.bluewatersslu.com

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february 23, 2019 THE STAR

Special Envoy Visits

(An over-my-shoulder T look at life) When things go wrong

By Michael Walker

F

lying is easy when everything goes according to plan. It’s when things go wrong that life gets interesting, which is why pilots train for something they hope will never happen.

I had left home—when I say home I mean the grass strip a couple of miles from my home—just after 6 a.m. to fly to a small town above the Arctic Circle. I had, as usual, filed my flight plan the evening before so, once I was airborne, I called air traffic control on the radio for clearance. Ninety minutes later I arrived at my destination, a grass strip in the middle of the forest 200 miles to the north where I was picked up and driven to the school where I would spend the day.

After my day was done I took off again and quickly realized that something was amiss. The landing gear had not retracted; it just dangled there creating lots of drag and slowing the plane. I had decisions to make.

Turning back to the grass strip was not an option as there were no emergency services available. Neither, for the same reason, was flying to the field where my day had started, so I diverted to the international airport not far from home and alerted air traffic control that I had a problem so they could prepare for my arrival. I was given a dedicated radio frequency while people on the ground tried to figure out a way to lock the gear in place.

The tower put me in a holding pattern for 45 minutes to burn off fuel to minimize the risk of explosion, were the landing to go awry.

Round and round I went, which gave me plenty of time to consider my situation and review my life until that moment.

The people on the ground came up with all sorts of ideas, some more reasonable than others. We all agreed that it was a question of hydraulics: somehow the fluid has escaped from the system that controlled the landing gear. Just below the instrument panel there was a tube. If I could fill this tube with liquid perhaps enough pressure could be maintained to extend the gear and lock it.

All I had to do was put the plane on autopilot and pee into the tube. It didn’t work. Then someone came up with the bright idea that I could open the door and lean out under the plane and try to manually pull the gear down.

Evidently this had been done successfully in Australia. The difference was that there were two on board then, and I was alone. I rejected that idea. I was advised to pull the nose of the

plane up and stall it so that it flipped over and hopefully snapped the gear into place. I tried it; it didn’t work.

I was a regular at the airport; it was where I kept my own plane, the one I used for long journeys. It was always parked in the Scandinavian Airlines’ hangar where my mechanic worked. I knew the tower would have alerted him of the situation. It was nice to know he would be around once I landed to take care of the plane. The tower had also called my home to tell them I would be delayed. Unfortunately, someone had also called the local TV station. It’s amazing how people rally round when there is a chance of a bit of blood and gore. Actually, that is not quite fair of me. People were very supportive, but there was an unusually large number of people along the spectators’ terraces. The only really sour note came when I turned inbound on my final approach and the tower cleared me to land. A pilot from one of the major airlines came on the frequency and asked rather petulantly whether my “wheels up landing” would mean that he would be delayed. The tower firmly put him in his place.

There would be no delays.

Finally I was ready for my approach. I jammed my flight bag in the door to keep it open, as was recommended, in case I ‘bent’ the plane on touchdown; I flew low over the proposed landing area on the grass to the side of the runway just to check for obstacles. It was then that I noticed several ambulances and fire trucks on the actual runway, all of them awaiting my arrival. The thought passed through my mind: I am alone in the plane.

How many pieces are they expecting to pick up? I climbed to 500 feet, turned left and entered the landing circuit once again. It was a beautiful landing. I feathered the propeller a few feet in the air to stop it spinning and minimalize the damage. As soon as the gear touched the ground it retracted and the plane slid on its belly along the grass. Only once we, the plane and I, came to a complete stop, did I realize how fragile life can be.

I exited the pane as quickly as I could— just in case! And there was my mechanic by my side in a flash. He towed the plane into the hangar and worked on it most of the night, patched up the landing gear doors, and fixed the gear in place so that it would not retract. The next morning I flew the plane down to Copenhagen to get everything fixed.

The insurance covered the costs. In the old days they always said, “Any landing you can walk away from is a good landing!” On that occasion at least, I couldn’t have agreed more.

he Honourable Su Jia-Chyuan, President of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan), leading a 10-member delegation, is visiting Saint Lucia 21-24 February, 2019 as Special Envoy of Her Excellency President Tsai Ing-wen to participate in the celebrations of the 40th anniversary of the Independence of Saint Lucia.

During this trip, Special Envoy Su and his delegation will meet with the Honourable Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, the Honourable Senate President Jeannie GiraudyMcIntyre, the Honourable House Speaker Andy Daniel and the Honourable Sarah Flood-Beaubrun, Minister with responsibility for External

Hon. Su Jia-Chyuan, President of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

Affairs, and other Saint Lucian dignitaries.

Special Envoy Su will also attend the ground-breaking

ceremony for the Hewanorra International Airport (HIA) redevelopment project, which will be financed by a loan from the Export-Import Bank of Taiwan (R.O.C.).

Also in the Special Envoy’s delegation are three prominent business leaders, who will explore investment and trade opportunities between Taiwan and Saint Lucia during this trip.

Special Envoy Su is the President of Taiwan’s highest legislative body. His visit and participation in the 40th jubilee of the Independence of Saint Lucia will highlight the cordial and mutually beneficial relations between the beautiful island (Formosa) of East Asia and the Helen of West Indies.

UK’S COMMONWEALTH ENVOY VISITS ST LUCIA FOR INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATIONS

T

he UK’s Commonwealth Envoy, Mr Phillip Parham, visited Saint Lucia on 21 and 22 February, 2019 to represent the British Government at the Independence celebrations.

Mr Parham was appointed

by Prime Minister Theresa May as UK Commonwealth Envoy in June 2018, and represents the UK on the Commonwealth’s Board of Governors.

Mr Parham attended

O

Mr. Philip Parham, UK's Commonwealth Envoy

the Independence Activities yesterday, 22 February.

In addition to meetings with Government Ministers, he met with Johanan Dujon of Algas Organics to congratulate him on his selection as a finalist for Commonwealth Young Person of the Year 2019.

Mr Parham also had lunch with Commonwealth Points of Light winners, Commonwealth Scholars and Queens Young Leaders.

MEXICO CONGRATULATES SAINT LUCIA ON ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE

n the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Independence of Saint Lucia, the Embassy of Mexico wishes to congratulate the Government and people of this beautiful island nation, as they enter into another year of sovereignty and progress.

It is an honour for Mexico to participate in the celebration of this important milestone, especially considering the close friendship and co-operation that has characterized the relations between the two countries, since the establishment of diplomatic ties, only a few

months after independence in May 1979. Mexico wishes to reaffirm its commitment to continue collaborating with the Government of Saint Lucia, for the benefit of its people, in fulfilling their goals of sustainability, climate resilience, development and wellbeing. This has been evident through the many co-operation projects that Mexico and Saint Lucia have undertaken together, in areas as varied as agriculture, education, personal development, and infrastructure, and most recently through the donation of

$13.5 million for the construction of the Dennery North Water Supply Project.

Additionally, Mexico is confident that through our common values, as well as through sharing experiences and ideas, we can continue to enhance and strengthen the bilateral dialogue between our nations.

The Government of Mexico conveys best wishes for the continued success and wellbeing of the people of Saint Lucia, on their journey towards a brighter and more resilient future.

THE STAR

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february 23, 2019

03

SO WHO BLUNDERED WITH ‘BLUNDER?’ A

recent HTS news headline: Talk Show Host Blunders PM’s ’23 Islands’ Claim. I hereby acknowledge that for some years now I’ve ceased paying attention to the countless unprovoked attacks by our “media practitioners” on the beautiful living language of Derek Walcott, Hemingway, and others of their ilk: English.

Normally I’d have dismissed the headline, on the basis that you are what you read, that whatever came under that HTS banner had to be at least as poisonous to the brain as what preceded it. Alas, on the occasion I chose to make an exception. Why? Well, there was this near irresistible teaser: “Did you know that prime minister Allen Chastanet announced plans to build what he described would be Saint Lucia’s version of the famous palm islands [sic]? In a 2018 interview with Monty Khan, an Indian born actor and TV presenter, Prime Minister Chastanet revealed plans were in the works to construct 23 islands. But the veteran journalist and firebrand talk show host Rick Wayne may have jumped the gun when he vehemently rubbished the claims on his weekly talk show.”

Jumped what gun? An accompanying undated video featured what sounded like the voice of star HTS reporter

When they were young: Rick Wayne (left) with Julian Hunte when he was leader of the St. Lucia Labour Party.

Rehani Isidore: “Prime Minister Allen Chastanet has not publicly announced on a Saint Lucian platform exceedingly ambitious plans to build more than a dozen new islands. He did make the bold statement on a yet to be commenced project almost twelve months ago during a taped interview with Indian born

actor and TV presenter Monty Khan.”

HTS offered proof of the interview, with the prime minister revealing to the Indian interviewer that his government had broken ground on a horseracing track and “we’re also building our own version of Palm Islands. We’re building our

Appointment of Chairman of Citizenship by Investment Programmes Association (CIPA)

Wednesday till almost one in the morning. Way past my normal bedtime.

She had phoned to ask, “Is Allen building 23 islands on Saint Lucia’s coastline?” My immediate reaction: “Why do you persist in asking me stupid questions? Why didn’t you ask your source for some useful details? Have you seen any such islands here? Why would Allen want to build 23 islands?

Where would he build them?

What would be the cost? Where would the money come from?

Try asking your friend such questions and tell me what she said.”

By lunchtime the next day I had received at least a dozen copies of the earlier mentioned HTS news clip, and an edited bit from TALK, with veiled suggestions that I had sought to defend the prime minister. Or had rubbished his idea.

Truth: I knew nothing of the existence of the HTS tape, recorded in March 2018, it turns out. Neither did my friend when she called me for confirmation that “Allen is building 23 islands . . .”

My comments on TALK were for popular edification: you come off looking damn stupid when you seek to spread mindless propaganda.

Had I known before taking my friend’s call, of Chastanet’s interview with Mr. Khan, there’d

Mr. Nestor Alfred, Citizenship by Investment Unit CEO.

Association, work to which a greater part of his Chairmanship will be directed. He intends to explore how the CIPs within the region can collaborate in areas such as the sharing of information, which he believes will be crucial in moving forward.

It is also important for the Association to have a voice and to be able to make its representation towards the myriad of issues which now confront the programmes within the region.

have been no difference in my reaction. I’d have proffered the same advice given my friend from New York. An obviously stupid idea does not assume Solomonic dimensions just because it fell out of a particular mouth. As for that HTS headline, a small word of advice to the company’s star scribbler: “Blunder is a noun. And though it can be used as an intransitive verb, still you need to know your English onions.”

To write “Show Host Blunders PM’s Claim . . .” is, well, pure gibberish. If the headline writer’s intention was to use “blunder” as a verb, then he should’ve left out the rest of the line: “Show Host Blunders!”

Or “Show Host Blundered When He Claimed” blah, blah, blah.

Obviously, it is Saint Lucia’s lead media practitioner who needs to pay more attention to what he says and writes if he hopes to be what he imagines himself to be. As he acknowledges in his egregious item, I’ve not been too bad at what I do. At any rate, so unforgettably pronounced the late great Sir Derek publicly— more than once. No number of ill-conceived, badly constructed headlines by rank amateurs can possibly change that.

To borrow from Popeye: “I yam what I yam and dat’s what I yam!”

---Rick Wayne

Export Saint Lucia Assists Young Female Exporter with Entry into UK Market

T

N

estor Alfred, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Saint Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Unit, has been appointed as the incoming Chairman of the Citizenship by Investment Programmes Association (CIPA). Nestor replaces Les Khan who is the CEO of the Saint Kitts & Nevis CIP.

CIPA is a regional body made up of the CIU-heads of the Caribbean’s five citizenship by investment programmes, namely: Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts & Nevis and Saint Lucia, as a means to forge closer co-operation and co-ordination.

Nestor believes that there is no other body that can lead the charge in fostering and maintaining the integrity of the individual islands' programmes than this

own chain of 23 islands . . .”

To which Khan says: “That is amazing . . . you’re building your own Dubai!” It’s hard to tell whether he is being professionally courteous or merely pandering. Actors are forever auditioning.

The local HTS presenter then goes into a short but discouraging history of Palm Islands, before showering me with a Niagara of fulsome praise. Well known Mr. Nice Guy that he is, Rehani Isidore expressed the hope my decades-long illustrious career might somehow survive my “blunder.”

Now let’s rewind just a bit. On last Thursday’s TALK, I introduced two quite hilarious 3-minute videos featuring a New York-based soi-disant comedian lauding my guest, Guy Joseph, for the way he had demolished the opposition’s recent motion of no confidence in the prime minister. I took the opportunity to complain about some otherwise intelligent folk who seem incapable of resisting the temptation to send me unsolicited insane WhatsApp messages. I cited, but did not identify, a major disseminator who happens to be a longtime friend and a Saint Lucian currently visiting from New York. I revealed on my show that we’d stayed up talking on the phone from 10 p.m. last

here continue to be significant strides in the export of agricultural products from Saint Lucia. Recently Mangal Trading, spearheaded by young entrepreneur Nila Mangal, successfully shipped a consignment of bananas, plantains and cucumbers to a buyer in the United Kingdom.

According to Mangal, the journey towards this recent export of produce has been a difficult one, with her having faced many challenges in years past. However, following a recent spate of successes, along with guidance from Export Saint Lucia, she looks forward, with bated breath, to the possibilities of growth for her business and for herself as a budding entrepreneur.

Mangal insisted that, “for a young person to survive in this business you must be patient”.

She went on to say, proudly, “The buyer, from all accounts, was extremely satisfied with the initial shipment”.

The buyer has expressed interest in another shipment from Mangal Trading, requesting a wider variety of produce.

According to Export Saint Lucia’s CEO, Sunita Daniel, “This initial export speaks volumes in terms of diversifying agricultural

Ms. Nila Mangal of Mangal Trading.

exports from Saint Lucia."

Miss Daniel added: “Export Saint Lucia has been focusing on increasing the volume of exports from Saint Lucia. We are excited about this shipment to the UK for many reasons,

including the fact that this is the first export experience in this market for this young lady. She followed our advice very closely and worked very diligently to get this order out.

"Export Saint Lucia is keen on expanding traditional exports while looking for markets for our non-traditional exports.

Continued ventures like this one could transform first-time exporters to regular exporters, which could lead to financial stability, security and even job creation”.

Daniel looks forward to the continued success of Mangal Trading as well as the continued collaboration between the island’s exporters and Export Saint Lucia.

Export Saint Lucia remains committed to the introduction of Saint Lucian products and services to existing and new markets.

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february 23, 2019 THE STAR

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Despite Overwhelming Crime, Police say they have No Plans for Another ORC! Joshua St. Aimee

W

ith sixty recorded homicides in 2017, forty-two in 2018, and four so far for this year, it is clear that a serious crime problem confronts “simply beautiful” Saint Lucia. Challenges faced by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force range from manpower and equipment limitations, to the non-availability of local forensic analysis. The United Statesimposed Leahy Law sanctions also prohibit the police from taking part in any training activities sponsored by the US.

Does the remedy lie in the Saint Lucian government providing more money to the force? During an interview with ACP for Crime & Intelligence, Wayne Charlery, he pointed to the fact that the budget for the department of Home Affairs and National security is among the top five in the country. “With the country’s scarce resources,” he said, “security is getting a big chunk of what’s available.”

Regrettably, much of it is used to pay salaries, with little left for physical resources, vehicles and so on. There is next to no money for training.

“Now I’m not making a case for the government,” said Charlery. “I’m just telling you

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Faced with unprecedented constraints, how long will it be before the police are forced to declare Trinidad-style war on local killers?

my view on this thing. Ours is the fourth largest budget; should we be the first?

Should we be the second? Some might say the security of the people is paramount but that decision is not ours to make.”

Compounding the issue, Charlery says, is that the country is experiencing crime on an unprecedented scale—a crime rate that suggests we are

a much bigger country in terms of population and available resources.

Charlery says the solution lies in holding true to our values

and realising what is important.

He says we need to become better neighbours, and that means not sheltering friends and relatives involved in illegal activities.

The ACP insists that, despite the public outcry, there are no plans for another Operation Restore Confidence, and what the police are doing right now is trying to be consistent each day. “Before Restore Confidence we had Restore Peace, and before that something similar. It’s almost like you have to come up with something every decade if you hope not to be overwhelmed by crime.”

He may have a point: a convicted murderer was recently hanged in St. Kitts, after a lull of over a decade.

And in Trinidad, cops have turned on criminals in a fashion reminiscent of the war on ISIS!

SLASPA, Police Tightlipped CAREER EDUCATOR WINS about Eve of Independence CIBC FIRST CARIBBEAN Bomb Scare!

REGIONAL XMAS DRAW

S

LASPA’s press release concerning a “threat” to George F.L. Charles Airport on Wednesday was a near perfect example of how not to write a press release concerning public safety. Its response to enquiring STAR reporters about the “threat” sounded similarly casual: “A press release was sent out with the information about yesterday’s event. It actually has everything. All the information that our department knows.” The release actually invited the concerned public to call SLASPA’s Business Development and Corporate Communications Department “for additional information”.

SLASPA’s release neglected to identify “the threat”. Meanwhile various online platforms were letting the world know that the threat related to a bomb scare. The police later confirmed someone had made a call relating to a bomb. This reporter was referred to SLASPA’s Director of Airports, Lambert Remy, for further information. In the press release he claimed the Authority was “satisfied with the level of response from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, the Fire Service and all emergency personnel”.

What exactly was this level of response by the police and fire departments? SLASPA did not say. When our reporters called their published number they were told that the personnel who might’ve been able to add to what was stated in the Wednesday press release were “at meetings”. Meanwhile Hermangild Francis, the minister in charge of

security, was unavailable. His phone rang itself out.

It turns out that various business and other public places, including government departments, have been victimized by bomb threats going back to 1998. So far as we can tell, in all that time only one bomb-scare caller has been caught and brought to justice. He was fined just $500.

According to the laws of Saint Lucia, an individual found guilty of making bomb threats is liable on summary conviction to at least two years behind bars.

We’ve been unable to establish the level of disruption of regular air travel from and into Saint Lucia in consequence of this week’s apparent bomb threat.

At press time the police were as tightlipped about Wednesday’s bomb scare as they’ve been about several recent homicides, including the fatal shooting of Beverly De Leon. Ditto the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions!

---Dean Nestor

M

s. Selma Biscette is the overall winner of CIBC FirstCaribbean’s 2018 “All I want for Christmas” regional customer rewards campaign. Ms. Biscette received a cheque in the amount of EC$7,000 during a short ceremony at the bank’s corporate centre, Bridge Street on Friday, February 15.

A curriculum officer in the Ministry of Education, Ms. Biscette says her winnings will go towards the education of her two sons, help with some bills and provide “something fun with my sons”. She clarified: “I place great value on the work-life balance.”

FirstCaribbean customers across the region, plus credit and debit card holders, became eligible for the grand prize draw of $7,000 with every card transaction valued at a minimum of $135.

A CIBC FirstCaribbean Bank customer for the past twelve years, Ms. Biscette described the experience of “winning this unexpected and tidy sum” as

something that further enriches the customer experience at CIBC FirstCaribbean.

She added: “Great customer service compensates for the time involved in interrupting your workday to take care of financial matters, so I appreciate the effort the bank takes to make their service delivery efficient because that caters to my convenience.”

Making the presentation to the winner were Mrs. Smerna Pompelis-Kangal, branch manager, and Mrs. Carol Mangal, senior relationship manager Sales & Platinum Banking at CIBC FirstCaribbean.

In thanking the longstanding customer for her continued patronage, Mrs. Pompelis reiterated the bank’s commitment to “create products tailored to the needs and priorities of our customers; also the incentives to encourage and motivate them to prioritize fiscal responsibility, which always guarantees rewards, expected and unexpected.”

THE STAR

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Cannabis co-operative to be established?

C

annabis regulations formed part of last year’s workshops by the Malaysian consultancy firm PEMANDU. The consultants came by way of an approved government motion in November to borrow $13million from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

Participating in the two-week workshops were members of the cannabis movement, and representatives from the government and police.

Chairman of the Cannabis Movement, Andre De Caires, told the STAR this week that the outcome was “very positive, and the consultants viewed going the legalisation route as a no brainer”.

He indicated that the cannabis movement and the Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari (ICAR) provided the consultancy firm with all the necessary

information to enable the consultants to put together a proposal to present to the government.

“I believe the decision has been made in general,” said De Caires. “They’ve decided, ‘Yes, it is going forward.’ As to why the prime minister hasn’t made an announcement, I don’t know.”

Last year De Caires anticipated an official announcement would be made early January, but that was not the case.

“It’s a little disappointing that it hasn’t been made as yet. But when we look at the Caribbean, or the world in general, so many set dates have not been met in so many different areas,” he said.

On the other hand, De Caires says there are signs the government is working toward legalisation. For instance, he says that the ministry of

Chairman of the Cannabis Movement, Mr. Andre De Caires.

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people’s livelihoods. We hope to get it registered at least by the middle of next month, if not earlier.”

A national education programme is also in the works. The chairman says that a meeting is scheduled for next week when, hopefully, they will dialogue with representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers, the Bureau of Standards, and the Agriculture and Social Development Ministries.

De Caires says the programme will target school children, the police, and also the public at large.

Meanwhile, recommendations presented by the St. Kitts & Nevis (National) Marijuana Commission for use of marijuana were this week accepted by that country’s government. (See page 23.)

agriculture has appointed an official to handle the issue.

De Caires says the movement views this very favourably—a step in the right direction.

Meanwhile, the chairman said plans to establish a co-operative, whereby farmers would come together to sell their crops, is coming along well. He says the first draft of by-laws is in place but some necessary amendments need to be made. After that, the next step would be to register the co-operative. De Caires indicated that assistance is being provided in that regard by the co-operative department in the Ministry of Agriculture.

Following registration, the plan is to begin a membership drive that will target persons who are presently making a living out of marijuana, whether they are planters or sellers.

“The co-operative’s intention is to protect these

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08 COMMENT

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february 23, 2019 THE STAR

HAPPY FORTIETH, SON! Peter Josie

A

s we reflect on the 40th year since we were accorded what some consider a dubious freedom, most of us are proud to have survived the circumstances of our birth. When some of us were too reckless to care, we hung you up between two vile replicas of ourselves: ignorance and poverty on the right, jealousy and greed on your left. You were nailed to a white cross that one of your more illustrious sons had described as a “vicious cycle of poverty” in which bad working conditions aggravated poverty, leading to low productivity, to low income, poor health and poverty all over again. Past generations of families who died before you were born had to await the reshaping of our thinking in the more aggressive pattern of those who had crucified you before Britain would finally decide to set you down from that cross. Indeed, it would take the assistance of the United Nations group of 24 to make colonial powers set their colonized captives free to live and die as they please.

Today, as we mark 40 years of trying, with various degrees of success, to free our minds from seeing us as ugly and unattractive due to the lingering colonial education of the former “masters” and their religions puppets, we try to march forward with confidence as one people. We still suffer from the diseases of ignorance, poverty and backwardness but hope beckons on the horizon.

We lament that some Christian churches have been taken over by desperate money changers and con-men who seem to forget that you had once lashed out against such greed from your father’s house of worship.

Sadly, those modern perverts who say they have come in your name, take from the poor to give to the rich. Some seem determined to deny your people true freedom and happiness.

Still we walk by grace, not by sight.

The United Nations anti-colonialism declaration of the 1960s had determined colonialism to be an unacceptable institution. Some

How many of our young people have in them what it takes to be another Bob Marley, another Sir Derek Walcott, another Sir Arthur Lewis or Boo Hinkson? Can we afford as a nation never to have discovered and nurtured such potential?

Also pictured, the late Sir John Compton.

tried to condemn the UN and cast it aside as a mere talk-shop, lacking financial commitment and independent, progressive action.

The constitutional garments you were fitted in at birth have become too tight and restrictive after 40 years.

We therefore need to help you shed them for new ones.

There’s need for more practical, thoughtful constitutional instruments of our own design and choosing if we are to continue to progress socially, economically and politically. We also need superior leadership to ensure such progressive constitution upgrade.

Could it be that the ill effects of that dastardly colonial mindset are still bedevilling us, even at age forty? Are you aware that some of your people become grandparents as early as age 40? Do you think that the heat generated by the fumaroles in the southwest of the island is responsible? Or is it the special hormones and other

compounds used to grow the imported chickens we consume that are responsible for the quick development of secondary sexual characteristics in your children?

Son, today, at age 40, you are old enough to appreciate the frank discussion we have for far too long been postponing. On the day you came into being we were saddened to hear that your surrogate father had rejected the sobriquet “father”.

Some people did not seem to mind preferring to think you fatherless. But the more thoughtful citizens were angry when he suggested your new independent status would not allow you to strut on the world stage like a Mr. Universe.

Perhaps he wanted to say . . . like a boss! What was so wrong with a young nation making its presence felt in the world?

Were we to carry on with our tails between our legs, as we were told we should by those who had first enslaved us and given us their white-stone god?

We stride like a boss, not like an ass that knows not where it is going under his heavy load.

Today, as we celebrate 40 years of independence, too many of the youth you gave us have been denied the beauty of unity and a liberal education.

The evil one still roams freely amongst the youth. Sadly, some law-abiding citizens bend their heads in shame, refusing to look wrong in its eye or call a spade a spade. They are afraid to call out evil even when such sits amidst those who are supposed to call sinners to repentance and redemption. Perhaps it is time that we acknowledge that we humans, whatever our profession or calling, will always fall short of the glory of God. Hence the reason we need to learn again, how to forgive and to love.

You will recall that those who had articulated more adequate preparation and a more nationalistic constitution prior to independence were cast aside, as in the sentiments of fighting Brigands whom

early historians refused to recognize as your freedom fighters. Wouldn’t it be nice, at 40, to name some town or village or national park after these earlier freedom fighters— these Brigands? What about our national football teams?

Why aren’t they called the fighting Brigands or the battling Brigands?

Some people are just beginning to discover that a younger generation of Saint Lucians is making it on the world stage in their chosen fields. And have we forgotten, so soon, how Sir Arthur Lewis, Sir Derek Walcott and, yes, Mr. Rick Wayne topped the world in their chosen professions? The message is clear: we cannot continue to hold on to these 238 square miles when there is a world out there waiting for the next Bill Gates, Jeff Bozos, Arthur Lewis, Derek Walcott or Rick Wayne, even a Bob Marley.

I blame myself for not trying harder to give you a better understanding of the life of struggle and sacrifice lived

by such icons as Marcus Garvey, Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jn. and Malcolm X, among others. What have we learnt after forty years that we may now prescribe to the coming generation as a tried and proven path that they should follow? A life dedicated to hard work, charity, peace, love and prosperity is my wish for you on your fortieth.

Remember, at forty you can no longer justify poverty except by ignorance, laziness and the rejection of a positive mindset. Please do away with jealousy and refuse to criticize those who work hard to provide for their families.

Above all, don’t make excuses for mediocrity. Instead, always encourage excellence in all you do at school, work or play. Keep striving to remove the obstacles to progress in your path.

Sunshine will return to point to you as the most luminescent jewel in the Caribbean chain that stretches from Cuba to Trinidad.

THE STAR

february 16, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

09

10 LOCAL

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Long live the Queen!

M

ajor changes are on the horizon for the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank-issued banknotes. The EC dollar is the official currency for Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The ECCB issues banknotes in denominations of five, ten, twenty, fifty and one hundred.

Come June 9, the bank will begin circulating new $50 polymer notes, to be followed by the $100, $20 and $10 notes in August/September, and lastly the $5 note next year.

The polymer and current paper notes will co-circulate.

The new notes will be a flexible plastic film made from polypropylene. The benefits, boasted by the ECCB, are that

the notes will be difficult to counterfeit, are durable, and resistant to dirt, water and other liquids. There will also be a unique tactile feature on all the notes, for the blind and visually impaired.

The back of the $50 note will now feature an image of deceased ECCB governor Sir Dwight Venner. Currently it carries a picture of Saint Lucia’s Pitons and Brimstone Hill from St. Kitts. The Pitons will now replace the image of the ECCB building on its new $100 note.

However, one component of the notes that will live on is the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse of every note. Why is the Queen on the banknotes in the first place?

Well, all the above-mentioned

countries excluding Dominica, Anguilla and Montserrat are considered Commonwealth realms, meaning the Queen is the reigning constitutional monarch, and the head of state for each island. (The Queen is also the head of state in Anguilla and Montserrat but they are considered British Overseas Territories. Dominica, on the other hand, has its own President). However, there are several other countries that have the Queen as their head of state but don’t have her portrait on their banknotes. The question is: Why haven’t we done the same? The ECCB was unavailable to provide comment at press time.

The concept design for the new $50 banknote, slated for release in June.

SLASPA Confirms Threat at George F. L. Charles Airport

---JSA

VACANCY

For the position of

Playmaker Core Function To engage the guests to participate in activities, attend shows and special guest events and create lasting memories while on vacation. To support all cross promotion opportunities and ensure that key occasions are celebrated by visible display of decorations and theme activities.

Qualifications and Experience: • 5 CXC or GCE subjects or equivalent in SSC Examinations.

Specific Knowledge & Skills Required: • Vibrant and outgoing personality; • Demonstrate the ability to train and maintain a training programme; • Effective Verbal Communication Skills necessary.

• Must be able to work long, flexible hours • Must have great customer service & interpersonal skills • Must have great oral & written (communication) skills • Must be able to dance & perform • DJ ability would be an asset • Work as a team player Should you meet the above requirements, please submit your application and curriculum vitae before Wednesday February 28th 2019 to: Mrs. Fleur Mathurin Human Resources Manager Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort Playmaker Or E-mail applications to: Recruitsgl@grp.sandals.com

George F. L. Charles Airport located at Vigie, Castries.

T

he Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), has confirmed a threat at George F. L. Charles Airport at approximately 5:50 a.m. on Wednesday morning.

SLASPA personnel advise that, in keeping with the airport’s emergency plan and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety requirements, the Airports Division of SLASPA evacuated

the facility. Operations were suspended to ensure safety of the travelling public, aviation staff and other facility users. Following thorough investigations, an all-clear was given, resuming operations by 9:00 a.m.

Director of Airports at SLASPA, Mr. Lambert Remy stated, “We are satisfied with the level of response from the Royal Saint Lucia Police

Force, the Fire Service and all emergency personnel.”

SLASPA personnel advise that the matter has been handed over to the Criminal Investigations Department.

SLASPA invites anyone requiring additional information to contact the Business Development and Corporate Communications Department at 457-6109 or email communicationsdepartment@ slaspa.com

THE STAR

february 23, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

11

CARIBBEAN TOURISM ON THE UPSWING overall, it was better than the anticipated 3-4 per cent fall-off.

“With a strong performance during the last four months of 2018, including a robust showing by countries impacted by the 2017 hurricanes, the evidence suggests that Caribbean tourism is on the upswing,” Skeete declared.

According to information compiled from CTO member countries, Canada

was the strongest performing market—its 3.9 million visits represented a 5.7 per cent rise.

The intra-Caribbean market had its best performance ever, reaching two million visitors, while South America produced 1.9 million tourist visits, representing a 3.6 per cent increase.

Arrivals from Europe grew

by a modest 1.3 per cent, with UK arrivals remaining flat at an estimated 1.3 million.

However, the United States, which remains the region’s leading market, was down, with the 13.9 million American tourist visits representing a 6.3 per cent fall. This was due mainly to steep declines in arrivals to popular destinations impacted

by the hurricanes, such as Puerto Rico, which was down by 45.6 per cent, and St. Maarten, which fell by 79 per cent.

This notwithstanding, there was a healthy 28 per cent rise in arrivals from the US in the fourth quarter, reflecting the strong turnaround during this period.

EDUCATION QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (EQuIP) CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR ASSESSMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY AND CONDITION ASSESSMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT OF THE SALCC CTO’s Director of Research (ag) Ryan Skeete.

T

he Caribbean tourism sector is projected to record strong growth in 2019 on the heels of a stronger-than-expected performance last year. The Caribbean Tourism Organization, the authority on regional tourism statistics and performance, is forecasting 6-7 per cent growth this year, continuing an upward trend which began last September.

“We are projecting that tourist arrivals will increase by between six and seven per cent in 2019, as the damaged infrastructure in the hurricane-impacted destinations returns to capacity. Similarly, cruise arrivals should expand by a further four per cent to five per cent,” Ryan Skeete, the CTO’s acting Director of Research revealed at the Caribbean Tourism Performance Review news conference at the CTO’s headquarters earlier this month.

Skeete cautioned on possible “significant headwinds to navigate,” including the outcome of the Brexit negotiations in the UK, the on-going trade war between the United States and China and potential extreme weather events in the destinations and marketplaces. Still, he said, with global demand for international travel expected to remain strong, underpinned by healthy economic activity, and with improved air connectivity helping to boost arrivals, the outlook for Caribbean tourism in 2019 was cautiously optimistic.

The CTO Research Director revealed that a robust 9.8 per cent growth during the September to December period last year led to a strongerthan-projected performance. It was a significant turnaround from the previous eight months of decline.

He added: “Even the destinations that were severely impacted by the 2017 hurricanes, despite registering overall doubledigit declines last year, experienced a significant turnaround during the last four months, registering triple-digit increases during this period.”

The 29.9 million tourist visits in 2018 represented the second highest number of visitors to the Caribbean on record, surpassed only by the 30.6 million who visited in 2017. And while this represented a 2.3 per cent decline

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST The Government of Saint Lucia (GOSL) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) for the Education Quality Improvement Project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOSL and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOSL shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing.

The Department of Education, Innovation and Gender Relations, the Executing Agency, now wishes to procure consultancy services for the Assessment of Institutional Capacity and Condition Assessment of Infrastructure and Equipment of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC).

The objective of the consultancy is to: (A) Perform an assessment of the institutional capacity Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats to offer and to deliver programmes and courses of relevance to market needs and the priorities of the public sector, and (B) Concurrently assist the SALCC with its decision-making for capital planning and budgeting for the expansion and upgrade to state-of-the-art, accessible, socially inclusive, climate and disaster resilient and energy efficient infrastructure.

The Department of Education now invites interested eligible consulting firms to submit Expressions of Interest for the provision of these consultancy services.

Eligible countries are member countries of CDB The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of CDB’s Guidelines for the Selection and Engagement of Consultants (2011), setting forth CDB’s policy on conflict of interest.

In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments.

All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between 09.00 and 16:00 hours Monday to Friday.

Three hard copies of the Expressions of Interest must be received at the first address below no later than 16:00 hours on Monday March 15, 2019, and one hard copy must be sent simultaneously to CDB at the second address below.

The sealed envelope containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Expression of Interest – Consultancy Services for Assessment of Institutional Capacity and Condition Assessment of Infrastructure and Equipment of the SALCC”.

Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three and not more than six applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignment. GOSL reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not short-listing any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of Expressions of Interest.

Address 1

Consultants shall be eligible to participate if: (a) in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organised in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 per cent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide resident(s) of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements; (b) in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons are citizens or bona fide residents of an eligible country; and (c) in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial part of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.

Project Coordinator (EQuIP) EQuIP Project Coordinating Unit Department of Education, Innovation & Gender Relations 3rd Floor, Francis Compton Building, Waterfront, Castries SAINT LUCIA Telephone: (+1 758) 468 5251/5257 Address 2 Procurement Officer Caribbean Development Bank P.O.Box 408 Wildey, St. Michael BARBADOS EMAIL: procurement @caribank.org

12 comment

www.stluciastar.com

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

Nothing’s More Dangerous Than Unchallenged Nonsen I

kick off with thanks to Speaker Andy Daniel: ever since last month’s precedential House sitting when he ruled opposition leader Philip J. Pierre’s motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Allen Chastanet (not in the government) constitutional, I have taken particular interest in the Standing Orders of the House, in our Constitution itself and in the Interpretation Act.

Daniel had also advised that Section 53 of the Constitution and Section 21 of the House Standing Orders together armed him with the irrefragable “authority to make our own rules on any matter that we so deem.” I took Speaker Daniel to be informing House members about his authority under the supreme law to toss both mentioned documents and conduct parliament according to whatever whims and fancies he considered appropriate on any given day. Let readers look up the cited sections of the Constitution and the House Rules and determine for themselves the validity of the Speaker’s conclusions.

Readers might also wish to look up “deem” and decide if the word as employed above by the Speaker makes sense!

Since the earlier mentioned Pierre motion I have become more than ever appreciative

with such matters assured me the governor general is not a member of the House, therefore is not restricted by its rules. I took that to mean the governor general is free to address parliament in whatever language she chooses. Still it would’ve kept at bay nitpickers such as I, had someone thought to note the exception to Sections of the consequences of using MP would willingly confirm the 6.1 and 32.11 of the House words in the fashion of Humpty public suspicion that much of rules. In any event it’s been Dumpty. Who could’ve imagined what’s said in parliament might some time since a member, sixty years ago the ongoing war just as well have been delivered other than the MP for Southeast over the meaning of “as soon in Greek.

Castries, stood on his feet to as convenient”—as if MPs had Then there are those who, speak from his heart. Rather never heard of the Interpretation even after a quarter of a century than upbraiding members who Act? Still we continue to fight in parliament, still cannot read hour-long speeches, the one another over the above four properly pronounce devastate, House Speaker continues to quoted words from Section 36 irrevocable and unequivocal. provide them with a varnished of our Constitution. Meanwhile For them it’s always de-vahlectern, thereby ensuring their we seem to have no difficulty state, e-re-voke-arble, on-eccomfort while flouting the with “as soon as practicable” qui-voke-al. (I’m almost regulations. There’s a word for when it comes to filling a certain I read somewhere that that but suddenly I find myself vacancy in the office of the chances are that a man who in the grip of a severe attack Speaker. habitually mispronounces words of lethologica. By the way, the

Under the rubric knows not their meaning. Of Speaker is empowered to order “Language,” the Standing course, I may have imagined a member to take his seat Orders couldn’t be more this!) “who persists in irrelevance, precise: “The proceedings

Our dear recently retired or tedious repetition, either and debates of the House, governor general comes of his own arguments or of inclusive of the records of to mind. You’d think her the arguments used by other such proceedings, shall be feathered chapeaus are what members in debate.” Imagine in the English language— her fans miss most. It turns that! provided that a member may out (surprise! surprise!) her

Section 35 (4-6): “It shall offer occasional (defined as Kweyol read-outs of the Throne be out of order to use offensive ‘infrequent or irregular intervals Speech were what rocked their and insulting language about . . . now and then’) explanation boats. But then, what about members of either chamber of in Kweyol.”

Section 6.1 of the Standing parliament. No member shall

Upon reading the Rules and Orders? What about impute improper motives to any immediately above I wondered: Section 32.11 that clearly member of either chamber of What member of parliament states “a member shall not read parliament. No member shall would require a Kweyol his speech, but he may read refer to any other member by explanation of words spoken in extracts from written or printed name.” Evidently, Section 35.4 English, even twice a year? I papers or books in support of might’ve been improved with came up with more than one his argument, and may refresh the following caveat: “Save possibility. But then I could his mind by reference to for motions of no confidence not imagine them openly notes?” What about that is so in Allen M. Chastanet, Prime acknowledging their ignorance. difficult to understand, Minister of Saint Lucia.”

To do so would be completely whether or not for a former

It occurs to me that the out of synch with Looshan magistrate?

House Standing Rules and kolcha. My guess is no local Someone most familiar Orders says nothing about live

Speaker Andy Daniel recently made history by being the first Hous motion of no confidence in the Prime Minister of

and unedited TV coverage of parliamentary sessions. Where that’s concerned it seems anything goes. Not so with the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Perhaps the current situation will be given some thought only

when some touchy “stranger” decides to test before the courts how far MPs are permitted to take their “privileged” speeches.

But enough. It remains to be seen whether the current House Speaker will continue to conduct the people’s business

THE STAR

n nse!

first House Speaker to preside over a Minister of Saint Lucia.

in the usual fashion, or by the book. Occasionally a local parliamentarian is reminded that Section 88 effectively empowers Speakers to make words mean whatever they choose . . . nothing more, nothing less. And therein lies the problem!

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

february 23, 2019

13

School Principal Clears the Dusty Air at Emergency PTA Meeting Dean Nestor

O

n February 13, 2019, the Department of Education, Innovation and Gender Relations issued a circular to the parents of the Ave Maria Girls’ Infant School, instructing them to keep their wards home on Thursday 14 and Friday 15 February to “facilitate improvement to the physical plant in order to enhance mobility for students with disabilities”.

However, the series of events that led to this two-day inconvenience is far more complicated than initially reported.

Back in September 2017 a student whose physical disabilities have confined her to a wheelchair was enrolled at the aforementioned school after a late registration. Claudia Edward, the school principal, informed the STAR that she had not known about the child’s condition until she saw her on orientation day.

The then kindergartner had been registered through the Department of Education and subsequently enrolled.

However, despite the many challenges her condition posed to the school’s staff, Edward claims to have received no communication from that Department regarding the student, until October 2018.

She was then called to a meeting to discuss several related issues, including the child’s treatment at the school. The principal believes that the sudden attention paid to the situation by the Department was related to her refusal to switch the location of a kindergarten class with a Grade 1 class, so that the child in question might be better accommodated.

“She spent an entire year here.” Edward revealed.

“She was in kindergarten, which is on the ground floor, but the major problem came about when she moved up to Grade 1, which is on the top

floor of the building.” Edward added that keeping the student on the ground floor (along with her entire class), would have required a kindergarten class to be moved upstairs.

“There are a lot of safety risks associated with that,” Edward pointed out, “so the school decided against this.”

During the emergency PTA meeting she called on Tuesday, February 19, Edward argued that all five kindergarten classes at the infant school are kept on the ground floor because it would be dangerous for five-yearolds getting used to their new surroundings to be placed in upstairs classrooms.

Still the Education Department insisted, by Edward’s telling, that the Grade 1 class be moved downstairs in order to accommodate the disabled student. The transfer of a Grade 3 class of the Ave Maria Girls’ Primary School, that had been housed for years at the infant school, was chosen.

“The Department of Education had discussions with us,” said Edward, adding that the necessary preparations were not made, and the potential health risks not considered.

Ultimately, works got underway: “Ramps were built, and students and teachers alike got sick from the cement dust,” said Edward. “Ironically the child’s teacher is one of those still on medical leave.

She has developed a serious lung infection.”

The principal complained that in the process her good name has been sullied, and the reputation of the school damaged by what has been appearing in both the mainstream and social media.

“This situation has been blown out of proportion,” said Edward, calling out Merphilus James, the President of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities.

She asked, rhetorically: “Do you know Mr. James has never called me to have a conversation? Not even to ask a question?”

As for the regular media, she said: “This is the first time I’m actually speaking to a reporter about this issue.” She

SLTU President Julian Monrose was critical of the Education Department’s handling of Ave Maria’s infrastructural upgrade last week.

confessed that one unfounded report had actually brought her to tears. “The child’s parents, the mother in particular, are putting information out there to the public, making it look like the principal does not want the child here. If that’s true, how has she spent an entire year here without the Ministry’s assistance or any support whatsoever?”

The STAR reached out to the Department of Education for comment on the situation at Ave Maria Girls’ Infant school but was referred to the February 13 circular, which it said was its official stance

on the matter. It states the Department “is committed to honouring the policy that emphasizes ‘No Child Will Be Left Behind’ and also cites Section 14 of the Education Act Chapter 18.01: “All persons are entitled to receive an education programme appropriate to their needs in accordance with this Act.” The circular ends with the Department reiterating its “commitment to provide equal educational opportunities for all students regardless of their physical ability”.

President of the Saint Lucia Teachers’ Union (SLTU), Julian Monrose, who was present at

the emergency PTA meeting held at the Ave Maria Girls’ Infant School, argued that the Department’s rationale for the two-day cancellation of school last week does not fly, given that the works should have been done during the Christmas vacation. He added that the illnesses that followed could have been avoided, had the Education Department done things the right way.

Principal Edward said that the student in question has not returned to school since last week’s infrastructure upgrades.

14 HEALTH

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Understanding Dementia

Types of Pseudodementia

By Regina Posvar

P

seudodementia is a condition with dementia symptoms that looks like or mimics neuro-degenerative diseases. There are many of them and these conditions can be reversed or cured in most cases with treatment and if diagnosed in a timely manner. Too often a person will experience memory or thinking challenges as a normal process of aging, or that it is just stress-related.

Although this may be true, you are encouraged to monitor yourself and tell your family or a friend what you are doing, and ask them to help with observations so that you can document them. If you are concerned, the information you collect will help your

doctor. You know yourself and so do your close family and friends. It is best to get checked out.

Let’s go over a possibility of pseudodementia: Vitamin D2 & D3 Deficiency: The most common symptoms are muscle weakness, bone pain and depression. Other symptoms that often go unrecognized are mental status or dementia symptoms such as memory loss, mood swings, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and processing information. These are subtle symptoms and can easily be missed.

A study published in the August 2014 issue of Journal Neurology explained the dangers of deficiency of vitamin D. The list given included the risk factors with untreated

symptoms leading to dementia, the Alzheimer type. There are other illnesses and diseases that could develop from lack of vitamin D but, for the purposes of this article, we are focusing on the changes with mental health and the risks of developing dementia, if not treated.

We derive our main source of vitamin D from the sun. Does this mean that West Indians are not at risk? Far from it.

Why? Some say because of the rich pigmentation in the skin. A study questioned this as back in time, when many people worked outdoors, no issues of vitamin D were noted.

Other studies were done and conclusions were that people with lighter to no pigmentation can receive five minutes of early morning sun exposure and receive sufficient amounts

VACANCY NOTICE - LEGAL OFFICER

Invest Saint Lucia is seeking a Legal Officer to provide legal support to the office of the Legal Counsel/Corporate Secretary.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Preparation and vetting of contracts and notarial documents.

• Conducting legal research and preparing legal opinions.

• Preparing notices, resolutions, contracts, leases, deeds, and other legal documents QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB).

• Minimum 3 years’ post qualification experience.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Excellent research and organization skills.

• Proven ability to work in a demanding, deadline-driven environment.

• Experience in drafting legal documents, including memoranda, leases and contracts.

• A good understanding of land and commercial matters.

• Ability to work within a team.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office REMUNERATION Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Applicants for the above post should submit a resume including two letters of reference and certified copies of relevant qualifications to: POST OF LEGAL OFFICER ATTENTION: SENIOR MANAGER HUMAN RESOURCES Invest Saint Lucia First Floor, Heraldine Rock Building P.O. Box 495, Castries, Saint Lucia or via email at info@investstlucia.com Deadline for submission of applications is Friday 1st March 2019 at 4:30p.m.

Only applicants who meet the required qualifications and experience will be acknowledged.

of vitamin D for the day while people with more pigmentation can tolerate 15 minutes of early morning sun exposure a day. So, what is the problem in these hot countries? UV rays?

People use more sun block and more clothes to hide their skin from the sun. Because of the changes in our environment, universe and ozone layers the five to fifteen minutes was considered to be efficient and safe. People with fairer skin should apply a light layer of coconut oil to protect their skin while allowing the sun’s rays to absorb. People who use sun block should allow the exposure first, then go into the shade and cool off, and then apply sun block half an hour before going back out.

Vitamin D is important to our health and brain-health.

This condition can be treated,

and symptoms reversed if found in time. When first experiencing mental and thinking changes, it is important to rule out deficiencies in this area before concluding it is a neurodegenerative condition.

and what is not normal. If all is normal, it is still a good time for your mom to start exercising her brain power if she has not done so in the past. The brain is amazing and can improve at any age.

Questions about dementia: Regina Posvar is the current president of the Q: I have been watching my mom for a year now and it Saint Lucia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association seems she is forgetting more and has been a licensed than usual. My siblings say it is nurse for 25 years. SLADA is just normal aging. How would supported by volunteers and we know and when should we donations and aims to bring get concerned enough to do awareness and support by something?

A: This is a person by person providing awareness public workshops, family support, decision. However, we memory screenings, the recommend checking it asap.

Memory Café, counselling Reason? It helps the monitoring and family training for coping process even if doctors find skills and communication nothing at the time. We also with persons living with encourage you to learn more about what is normal aging dementia.

The Events Company of St. Lucia is seeking to fill the role of

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER to continue delivering on its current mandate.

Job Summary: Responsible for the implementation of the organization’s strategic plan. Work closely with the CEO to provide dayto-day management of the organization.

Duties & Responsibilities: o Leads the team in the implementation of the

strategic and corporate plans. o Establishes, in consultation with the team, standards and targets for performance in each area. o Ensures that performance in meeting standards

and targets is monitored and evaluated. o Oversees preparation and execution of work programmes, including the setting, monitoring and

evaluation of annual and quarterly targets. o Ensures that systems for proper human resource

management are in place. o Ensures that the support services (Information

Management & Administrative Services) are in

place and are effective. o Maintains custody and control of the corporate seal

and relevant documents, including leases, contracts

and insurance policies. o Prepares and maintains custody of minutes of meetings of the Board of Directors and its sub committees. o Assist with recruitment and selection of staff in accordance with established policies and procedures. o Supports the conduct and annual appraisal of staff performance. o Provides ongoing support to staff by communicating

the ECSL’s policies, procedures and key decisions and ensuring that the resources are available to

execute assigned responsibilities.

o

o

o

Oversees the work of staff to ensure that it meets ECSL’s standards.

Makes recommendations to CEO regarding salary levels, promotions, disciplinary action and renewal of contracts.

Carries out such other duties as may be assigned, from time to time, by the CEO.

Job Requirements Bachelor’s Degree in Management Studies or related field. Training in the area of Human Resource Management would be an asset.

Minimum of 8 years work experience, with at least five years at management level. Experience in supporting the work of the Board of Directors would be an asset.

Desired Skills: Demonstrated leadership skills with a proven track record of effective team management; excellent communication, report writing and analytical skills.

Attributes: Mature and responsible individual; highly organised; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people The successful candidate will report to the Chief Executive Officer. Interested applicants should address and email their applications to: The Administrative Manager Events Company of St. Lucia Inc. 1st Floor, Sureline Building Vide Bouteille, Castries Saint Lucia Email: admin@eventssaintlucia.com Deadline for receipt of applications is 4pm, local time, February 28, 2019.

Only suitable applications will be acknowledged.

THE STAR

february 23, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

15

Touch of Wings: 100 Poems Gyanchand Rayman

and rhythm.

Gyanchand Rayman’s career has included numerous short stories, plays and poems. .H. Auden said, “A poet Unsurprisingly, he is also the is, before anything winner of numerous literary else, a person who awards. Not only is Rayman is passionately in love with a proficient writer, his love language.” Gyanchand Rayman for language has placed him has a love for language that is in many classrooms where unsurpassed. His Enticing Short those who are fortunate to be Stories and his new book of one under his tutelage find in him hundred poems, Touch of Wings, a passion, that can barely be are glimpses into the brilliance contained, for all things literary. of writing that emerges from the Within this new hand of one who is blessed by magnificent text, Rayman’s the muse Calliope herself. distinct ability to artistically

Touch of Wings is a manipulate language and collection of poetry that literary technique comes to encompasses themes such as the fore. His writing portrays a love, innocence, experience, depth of emotion that emanates nature, beauty, culture, ritual from experience; the images are Reviewed by Sueann Rajbansie

W

sharp and the metaphors draw us in to a world where real life becomes forgotten in the poignancy of the written word.

In Bird the playfulness of the poet mirrors the antics of the bird and the reader is brought to life by the “head cocked curiously observing,” and the oneness with nature that the persona describes, when there is the realization that “joyful am I, pretty bird befriended devotes time to me.”

Nagar night gives insight into the annual celebration of the Hindu festival of Divali, with the commercialization of the festival, but still highlighting the vibrancy of the event. This piece is indeed an ode to culture.

The dialectal variation

that appears in Touch of Wings is testament to the adaptability of the poet to manipulate language to create character. Woman, Shut You Mout comically underscores the perpetual Caribbean problem of infidelity and attempts to hysterically justify the weakness of the flesh when faced with the symbolic and tempting “flash of tail”.

Every poem in this book depicts the skill of the poet in his ability to see beauty in the mundane, culture in the commercial, rhythm in the stagnant, purity in the profane.

Rayman’s impressive work, Touch of Wings, will echo throughout the world and for all time.

2019 Kwéyòl Poetry Writing Competition T

he Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO is pleased to announce a call for the submission of Poems in Kwéyòl under the 2019 Kwéyòl Poetry Writing Competition.

The competition forms part of Saint Lucia’s commemoration of International Mother Language Day and World Poetry Day, and coincides with the celebration of Saint Lucia’s 40th anniversary of Independence on 22nd February, 2019.

Events will be held under the theme: Nou tout abò: voyaj nou, destinasyon nou.

The 2019 Kwéyòl Poetry Writing Competition is a celebration of language diversity and is intended to support UNESCO’s efforts at linguistic variety through poetic expression, and to offer indigenous languages the opportunity to be heard within their communities.

The competition also provides an opportunity for persons to reflect on the theme for our 40th anniversary of Independence that calls on us to consider how far we have come as a country; also to think about how, individually and collectively, we can chart a course for Saint Lucia’s future that will ensure peace and prosperity for all Saint Lucians.

The competition opened on Thursday 21st February, 2019 (International Mother Language Day) and will close on Thursday 21st March, 2019 (World Poetry Day).

Details of the terms and conditions, as well as copies of the entry form, are available on the Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO’s Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/Saint-LuciaNational-Commission-forUnesco/ or from the Office

of the Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO, Department of Education, Innovation and Gender Relations (5th Floor, Conway Business Centre, Waterfront, Castries).

Theme: Nou tout abò: voyaj nou, destinasyon nou.

Format: All poems MUST be written in Kwéyòl.

Length: Junior—up to 20 lines; Senior—up to 40 lines.

Award: Winners will receive a number of exciting prizes and awards. All entrants will receive a Certificate of Participation.

Deadline: Please submit entries to the Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO at Conway Business Centre or by email: slunatcom@yahoo.com on or before Thursday 21st March 2019. Entries reaching the National Commission after that date will not be considered.

Invites applications for the position of: Applicants should satisfy the following minimum requirements:

RESTAURANT SERVER • • • • • • •

Minimum of 1 year experience in food service Possesses great interpersonal skills Excellent communications skills Must have Secondary education qualification or skills certificate in food service Must have minimum of three CXC passes Food Handler’s Permit Must be able to work flexible hours Applications should be emailed or delivered to: Human Resources Manager Sandals Grande St. Lucian Pigeon Island Causeway Box GI 2247, Castries, St. Lucia W.I Email: recruitsgl@grp.sandals.com DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: Friday 22nd February 2019

16 LOCAL

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february 16, 2019 THE STAR

More to Miss Independence 2019 than her crown!

By Toni Nicholas

T

he young woman who walked away last Friday with the Miss Independence 2019 crown is more than just a pretty face. Her name is Sancia Charlemagne, a proud daughter of Sulphur City, Soufriere (Fond St. Jacques to be exact) and it cannot be denied that she took the National Cultural Centre audience by storm.

For the second straight year the pageant was organised by the Ministries of Equity, Social Transformation and Culture, through the Independence Committee and Events Company of Saint Lucia; and was once again a resounding success.

The packed NCC witnessed ten contestants doing battle for the coveted title: Kieara Leon (Babonneau); Timiqua Deterville (Dennery North); Kamani Alphonse (Gros Islet); Keahni Hippolyte (Castries Southeast); Tunisha Lansiquot (Anse La Raye/ Canaries); Trish Placid (Laborie); Kershel Bousquet (Castries East); Jenny Joseph (Castries North); Tunisia President (Micoud); and Sancia Charlemagne (Soufriere).

The contestants first appeared to deliver their introductory number, an “ambassadorial speech” that sought to impress upon the

judges and the audience what their communities stood for; giving a bit of history, while incorporating the theme for Independence. The Swimwear, Talent and Evening Wear segments followed. The usual interview period was not judged this year.

As earlier stated, Sancia Charlemagne, with 435 points, gracefully walked away with the crown. The 21-year-old also took Miss Congeniality, Best Talent, Best Promotional Speech and Best Evening Wear.

Timiqua Deterville was judged first runner-up, with a 377 points score, while Tunisha Lansiquot, with 372 points, was declared second runner-up. She also took the award in the Best Swimwear category. Tunisia President was the third runner-up with 357 points, while Kieara Leon was judged Miss Photogenic.

The STAR could barely wait to discover what made Sancia Charlemagne tick. In a short interview away from the stage lights, we discovered she had earlier been crowned Miss Fond St. Jacques, that she teaches music at the Soufriere Infant School and is a facilitator at the Community After-School Programme in Fond St. Jacques.

It was something of a surprise to learn she initially had said no when asked to compete in the

Miss Independence pageant.

She explained: “I wasn’t sure how I would be able to balance work and travelling to Castries for meetings and the other activities related to the pageant, given that I had just about four weeks to prepare.”

But her earlier performance at carnival time, her obvious self-confidence, her involvement in community activities as well as her attractive personality made her the perfect Miss Independence candidate. And her Fond St. Jacques promoters knew it only too well. They refused to take her 'no' for an answer, her principal in particular; the mayor of Soufriere, too. Finally she caved in to their persistent requests.

She said: “I put my all into preparing with the help of Lovely St. Aimee-Joseph as my chaperone, Danielle Dubois as my talent co-ordinator and Helena Isaac, my dress maker. The Soufriere Constituency Council was also behind me, not to mention my family and the people of Soufriere/Fond St. Jacques.”

The minute Sancia stepped on the Miss Independence stage it was clear she would be the contestant to beat. Almost every move she made, every word uttered, elicited screams and shouts from her fans old and new. Her loudest cheerleader

may well have been the Soufriere/Fond St. Jacques MP, Mr. Herod Stanislaus.

For her talent contribution she assumed the personage of Ms St. Lucia. As she told it to the STAR: “She was this young girl who had French and British parents, and was leaving home to find a life of her own. She was, however, pursued by a sugar daddy called Uncle Sam. The message I wanted to bring across was that while we say we are independent, we still depend on others; we continue to be influenced culturally and socially, evidenced by the way we dress, how we speak. Even our general attitude is influenced by America.

In the end Lucia had to sit with all these people and explain that while she appreciated all that they had done for her, the time had come for her to map out her own journey into the future.”

Her overall message as we celebrate Independence 40: “We must be proud of who we are and we must begin to celebrate what is unique about us. Yes, we need friends and we need other people sometimes. Still, we must be proud of who we are and what are our national goals.”

Sancia recalled Hurricane Tomas: “It happened in 2010.

I was a little girl and while my home and my family were spared, I still recall seeing dead

From the start, Soufriere’s Sancia Charlemagne seemed a shoo-in for this year’s coveted Miss Independence title. At her every move the packed NCC crowd roared its approval.

Agricultural minister Ezechiel Joseph (left) and Senator Fortuna Belrose (second right) in deep discussion with Prime Minister Allen Chastanet’s wife Raquel (centre) during a break at the 2019 Miss Independence pageant.

bodies in Fond St. Jacques and the widespread destruction associated with the hurricane. I can recall the community coming together to pray, to ask God to unite us and to love one another for our country’s sake. Sadly, it seems a change has come over us, not for the better. As we reflect on our Independence theme “All in – Our Journey, Our Future”, my wish is that we should be more grateful for what we have: for life, for our country.

And we should endeavour to do more for those in need, for our environment and for Saint Lucia as a whole. At the end of the day, our country is all we have and we must do the best we can to keep Helen alive and safe.”

As for her future: “I love the stage, I love performing, I love theatre and so I would love to pursue a degree in the performing arts. I also love Economics and would love the opportunity to make a career in the field.”

THE STAR

february 23, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

INTERNATIONAL

17

Britain’s Unwritten Constitution

U

nlike most modern states, Britain does not have a codified constitution but an unwritten one formed of Acts of Parliament, court judgments and conventions.

Professor Robert Blackburn explains this system, including Magna Carta’s place within it, and asks whether the UK should now have a written constitution.

For most people, especially abroad, the United Kingdom does not have a constitution at all in the sense most commonly used around the world—a document of fundamental importance setting out the structure of government and its relationship with its citizens.

All modern states, saving only the UK, New Zealand and Israel, have adopted a documentary constitution of this kind, the first and most complete model being that of the United States of America in 1788. However, in Britain we certainly say that we have a constitution, but it is one that exists in an abstract sense, comprising a host of diverse laws, practices and conventions that have evolved over a long period of time. The key landmark is the Bill of Rights (1689), which established the supremacy of Parliament over the Crown following the forcible replacement of King James II (r.1685–88) by William III (r.1689–1702) and Mary (r.1689–94) in the Glorious Revolution (1688).

From a comparative perspective, we have what is known as an ‘unwritten constitution’, although some prefer to describe it as ‘uncodified’ on the basis that many of our laws of a constitutional nature are in fact written down in Acts of Parliament or law reports of court judgments. This aspect of the British constitution, its unwritten nature, is its most distinguishing characteristic.

There are a number of associated characteristics of Britain’s unwritten constitution, a cardinal one being that in law Parliament is sovereign in the sense of being the supreme legislative body.

Since there is no documentary constitution containing laws that are fundamental in status and superior to ordinary Acts of Parliament, the courts may only interpret parliamentary statutes. They may not overrule or declare them invalid for being contrary to the constitution and ‘unconstitutional’. So, too, there are no entrenched procedures

One of the four surviving copies of the 1215 Magna Carta containing the famous clause ‘to no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice’.

(such as a special power of the House of Lords, or the requirement of a referendum) by which the unwritten constitution may be amended.

The legislative process by which a constitutional law is repealed, amended or enacted, even one dealing with a matter of fundamental political importance, is similar in kind to any other Act of Parliament, however trivial its subject matter.

Another characteristic of the unwritten constitution is the special significance of political customs known as ‘conventions’, which oil the wheels of the relationship between the ancient institutions of state. These are unwritten rules of constitutional practice, vital to our politics, the workings of government, but not committed into law or any written form at all. The very existence of the office of Prime Minister, our head of government, is purely conventional. So is the rule upon which he or she is appointed, being whoever commands the confidence of the House of Commons (the majority party leader, or head of a coalition of parties).

The Monarchy is one of the three components of Parliament (shorthand for the Queen-

in-Parliament) along with Commons and Lords. In legal theory, the Queen has absolute and judicially unchallengeable power to refuse her assent to a Bill passed by the two Houses of Parliament. However, convention dictates the precise opposite and in practice she automatically gives her assent to any government Bill that has been duly passed and agreed

by Parliament.

Another important convention is that government ministers must have a seat in Parliament (and, in the case of the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer, specifically in the House of Commons) in order to hold office. This is a vital aspect of what is known as the ‘Westminster system of parliamentary government’, providing a direct form of executive responsibility and accountability to the legislature.

There is irony in the fact that the United Kingdom today does not have a written constitution, yet historically it has had a rich heritage of pioneering constitutional charters and documentation.

First and foremost is Magna Carta (1215), the ‘Great Charter of the Liberties of England’.

This established the principle that our rulers, at that time the

king, could not do whatever they liked, but were subject to the law as agreed with the barons they governed.

This simple concept laid the foundations for constitutional government and freedom under the law. Insofar as Magna Carta was ‘the first great public act of the nation’, it also established the direction of travel for our political system towards representative institutions and, much later, democracy itself.

In 1258, the Provisions of Oxford, sometimes referred to as the first ever written constitution, provided for a Council of twenty-four members through whom the king should govern, to be supervised by a parliament.

This was convened for the first time in 1264 by Simon de Montfort (d. 1265). During the constitutional conflicts of the 17th century, the Petition of Right (1628) relied on Magna Carta for its legal basis, setting out rights and liberties of the subject including freedom from arbitrary arrest and punishment.

The Bill of Rights (1689) then settled the primacy of Parliament over the monarch’s prerogatives, providing for the regular meeting of Parliament, free elections to the Commons, free speech in parliamentary debates, and

some basic human rights, most famously freedom from ‘cruel or unusual punishment’.

This was shortly followed by the Act of Settlement (1701) which controlled succession to the Crown, and established the vital principle of judicial independence.

Over the past century there have been a number of Acts of Parliament on major constitutional subjects that, taken together, could be viewed as creating a tier of constitutional legislation, albeit patchy in their range and with no special status or priority in law. They include: The Parliament Acts (1911–49) that regulate the respective powers of the two Houses of Parliament; the Representation of the People Acts (1918) (as amended) providing for universal voting and other matters of political representation; the European Communities Act (1972) making the UK a legal partner in the European Union; the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland devolution Acts of 1998 (as amended) creating an executive and legislature for each of those three nations in the UK; the Human Rights Act (1998) establishing a bill of rights and freedoms actionable by individuals through the courts.

Recently, too, some conventions have been subject to an ad hoc codification, such as the principles of ministerial responsibilities in the Ministerial Code.

Should the UK have a written constitution? The question then arises, after eight centuries—should the UK now take steps to codify all its laws, rules and conventions governing the government of the country into one comprehensive document, ‘a new Magna Carta’? The case for a written UK constitution has been debated at our universities and by politicians of all parties for several decades and has been the subject of a House of Commons committee inquiry during the 2010–15 Parliament.

If a written constitution for the future is to be prepared, it must be one that engages and involves everyone, especially young people, and not simply legal experts and parliamentarians. Some of the mystique and charm of our ancient constitution might be lost in the process, but a written constitution could bring government and the governed closer together, above all by making the rules by which our political democracy operates more accessible and intelligible to all.

---British Library

18 HEALTH

www.stluciastar.com

KIM’S KORNER

I

Stayin’ Alive

n the final part of our series on Physical Activity (PA) we are going to look at the importance of PA as we grow older, reducing the risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and its role in the management of these longterm conditions.

An NCD cannot be passed on through contact. NCDs account for 71% of deaths worldwide but they are, to some extent, preventable, or at least manageable, through behaviour modification. PA is just one behaviour modification that can have a positive impact on quality of life.

Four of the main NCDs are cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, respiratory conditions and cancer.

CVD describes conditions that affect the heart and the blood vessels, with heart disease and stroke being the most common. Exercise has

been shown to have a positive effect on lowering blood pressure and stress levels, both of which are risk factors for CVD. The effects on blood pressure can be present for up to 10 hours, and regular exercise can have positive long-term effects. PA is also very important for improving quality of life after a heart attack or stroke where a supervised planned programme can gradually increase fitness and reduce the risk factors associated with a sedentary life.

Diabetes is a condition whereby the body cannot produce enough insulin to regulate glucose levels resulting in high and low sugar levels.

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1: The cells that produce insulin are destroyed and injections of insulin are required to prevent high levels of sugar in the blood.

Type 2: The body either is

unable to produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to the insulin produced. It is the most common form of diabetes and, in the first stages, can be controlled by diet and exercise but, over time, insulin or medication may be needed.

There is evidence of a correlation between obesity and diabetes, and exercise can help not only control weight but also have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity. During exercise, muscles use glucose for energy, reducing the sugar levels in the blood. However, to get these positive benefits from exercise, you will need to engage in 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week, with each session lasting at least 10 minutes. So, if you work out three times a week, that will be 25 minutes of vigorous exercise on each of those days.

Respiratory conditions describe conditions such as asthma, COPD and bronchitis, and it is hard to imagine PA when you are already struggling for breath. However, exercise can help improve cardiorespiratory fitness which can improve the efficiency of oxygen exchange within the body. The fear of breathlessness can lead to a sedentary lifestyle which has a negative effect on the heart, lungs and muscles and can lead to obesity, all of which can create a vicious cycle of events. Including PA in your daily routine can help control weight and improve cardiovascular fitness and strength, all of which can increase the efficiency of the muscles and lungs.

Cancer affects young and old and can happen anywhere in the body. In a healthy environment, cells normally grow old or become damaged and die and are then replaced by new cells.

When cancer is present this process is disrupted, and cells start to divide and reproduce uncontrollably, forming a mass known as a tumour. Not all tumours cause problems.

Benign tumours do not spread or affect tissues but malignant

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

tumours, on the other hand, can spread, invading and destroying healthy tissues. There are over 200 types of cancer, some of which are life-threatening, but there are treatments available that can prolong a person’s life and, in some cases, eradicate the disease altogether.

Recently research has shown that PA can reduce the risk of developing breast, colon and endometrial cancer by 25-50%. For cancer prevention it is recommended that you take part in moderate exercise for about four to five hours a week. It is thought that the benefits are due to insulin resistance, regulation of hormone levels and an improved immune system. PA is also recommended for people who already have cancer and

are undergoing treatment as it can improve mood, reduce fatigue, boost the immune system and help to build strong bones and muscles.

So PA, if carefully planned, can have a positive impact on day-to-day living.

It is important, however, that if you have any of the above conditions and want to include PA in your life, you should consult with your healthcare provider prior to starting an exercise programme. If you are worried and really do not know where to start, you can talk to a physiotherapist who is trained in human movement, anatomy and physiology; they can show you ways to gradually increase the intensity of your workout, helping you live a longer, healthier and more active life.

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

THE STAR

february 23, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

LOCAL

19

Independence Day Musings

Helen—What would she think of herself at 40?

Celebrates Saint Lucia’s

Y

esterday was a momentous occasion for all Saint Lucians and, as our nation marks its 40th anniversay of Independence, we at STAR Publishing Company want to take a special moment to share our feelings of compatriotism and pride with each one of you: our valued clients without whom none of this would be possible; our supportive suppliers who have helped make us one of the most versatile printers in the Eastern Caribbean; and our industry peers who keep us competitive and motivated.

Has our independent nation realised the vision of our forefathers?

longer stand for ‘Farmers are

By Keithlin Caroo Rich’. In fact these plates are almost non-existent as most of the population has moved far orty years old! If we away from farming. could liken Saint Lucia

Once again poverty has to a woman, she would become a rural phenomenon be middle-aged, with a vast with 35% of the rural population number of children (but not as living under the poverty line in many as her neighbours) and grappling financially. It could be areas of the south, southwest and pockets of the northeast, said that Saint Lucia has come and there is a stark difference a long way since 1979, when between the rich and the poor. water-borne diseases such as While we still have two bilharzia plagued the population, poverty was rampant and living Nobel laureates, Saint Lucians at home and around the world conditions were deplorable. are excelling in business, the But, in the same breath, forty arts, music and innovation. years ago on that fateful day, However, it seems that our Saint Lucians, for the very first ranking as a tourist destination time, were unified. Forty years far out-measures the later, one could say that Saint accomplishments of these Lucians have never been so Saint Lucians (a shaky measure divided, whether politically, in the midst of our fragility to religiously or culturally (just bring up the madras vs. African climate change) and that, more and more, our development cloth conversation or, worstseems to be tied to the case scenario, your political enjoyment of outsiders rather affiliation). than the care of our own. As

While living conditions Nelson Mandela said, “A nation have greatly improved should not be judged by how it throughout the island, Saint treats its highest citizens, but Lucia has backtracked in its lowest ones.” And, in this many ways when it comes context, Saint Lucia has failed to the socio-economic status resoundingly. of its people. The decline in

While I may not be old agriculture in the last twenty enough to have witnessed years has seen the destruction the first day of Saint Lucia of the farming middle-class.

The license plates with ‘FAR’ no as an independent nation, or

F

the strife that came with it, I strongly believe that our path to independence was forged in the belief that Saint Lucians were capable of moulding and controlling their own destiny without being shouldered by the rest of the world. In that sense, while we have aged, as a country we have not matured in our ability to protect and promote our own. So, here’s to forty years of overcoming colonial strife and discord but to forty more of realizing the independence vision of our forefathers.

Our founding husband and wife duo, Rick and Mae Wayne, started this company in the 1980s, only a few short years after Saint Lucia gained statehood in 1979. In the 40 years that have passed, we’ve witnessed our fledgling democracy grow into a well-tempered, respectable member of the international community and become a shining example of regional collaboration. In fact, we’ve chronicled much of that journey in our Special Independence Publication which you can check online at infostar@stluciastar.com or call the STAR (450-7827) for your copy.

And with this, STAR Publishing Company offers each of you a congratulatory salute for being part of Saint Lucian greatness and for contributing to the development of our young, promising nation.

SAINT LUCIA

special Edition

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, you can visit: Facebook: helensdaughtersslu/, Instagram: helensdaughters.slu/ Website: helensdaughters.org/

February 16th, 2019

Celebrating Saint Lucia

1

20 LOCAL

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

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THE STAR

february 23, 2019

In Search of a Solution for Water Scarcity in the Caribbean

A

ccess to clean drinking water is the most threatened right of Caribbean people,” says Zachary Harding, CEO of Hyperion Equity, the private equity firm that manages the Caribbean Climate Fund.

The Caribbean Climate Fund was established by Harding’s Hyperion Equity after he completed his contract as CEO of the Caribbean Climate Smart Accelerator. Harding, in his former post with the Accelerator, facilitated the implementation of a water harvesting technology that has effectively taken a Jamaican children’s hospital off the water grid. This is a massive achievement in the local context, where one in four people (usually among the poorest 20%) do not have domestic access to piped water, and droughts and infrastructural issues result in periodic “lockoffs” for the remainder of the population.

For many small island developing states of the Caribbean, where climate change-related pressures, such as drought and extreme weather, compound geographic, industrial and infrastructural issues, water scarcity is a way of life.

In 2017, the Caribbean Drought and Precipitation Monitoring Network (CDPN) and personnel at the Saint Luciabased Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (now replaced by the Caribbean Public Health Agency or CARPHA) warned that in the years to come, the Eastern Caribbean could see declines in average annual rainfall of 30-50%.

It is not surprising that, of the 37 countries that the World Resources Institute has identified as having “extremely high” levels of water stress, seven are from the Caribbean: Dominica, Jamaica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and St. Kitts & Nevis, with the latter three being designated as waterscarce (less than 1,000 meters cubed of freshwater resources per capita).

Over the past half a decade, national governments have invested in infrastructure upgrades and implementations, including mains replacement, water treatment plants and leakage reduction initiatives, each with limited degrees of success, mostly due to financial

The availability of clean water has become a major issue in the Caribbean region.

and logistical difficulties, inferior design and construction, and inconsistent and shortsighted planning that has overlooked the burden of longterm maintenance.

Currently, the idea of converting wastewater into drinking water is nothing more than a pipe dream. According to the Caribbean Regional Fund for Wastewater Management, up to 85% of wastewater across the Caribbean is untreated. Less than 17% of Caribbean homes are even connected to a public sewage system. The financial implications of such a project are leviathan.

Desalination, the process of extracting clean water from seawater, utilizes what would appear to be a bountiful resource in the Caribbean.

Over the past decade, 68 new desalination plants have been built across the region, with a capacity of 782,000 cubic meters of purified water per day (Caribbean Desalination Association). Desalination isn’t without its challenges, however.

A recent UN-backed study found that environmental risks related to desalination plants are higher than originally thought; the most obvious of which relate to huge amounts of energy consumption and damage to marine ecosystems as well as through the production of toxic by-products, such as brine, that are pumped back into the ocean.

Atmospheric water generation (AWG), a process that extracts, filters, sterilizes and stores water directly from vapour that exists in the air, offers a more environmentally sustainable alternative to desalination and has generated a great deal of buzz in scientific and water circles especially with respect to systems that are fueled by solar energy.

As innovations continue to address the issue of water scarcity, outdated and obsolete water management

regional

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Caribbean-Canadians to be honoured at University of West Indies Toronto Gala

T systems will be replaced and alternative sources found.

The financial and logistical burden of implementation and maintenance will have to be shared between national governments and the private sector, with an empowered network of end-users who are plugged in via transparent and decentralized monitoring systems so that they too can become a part of the solution.

Regional collaboration is required to find a sustainable solution to a “global water crisis” that will impact over 1.8 billion people by 2025.

--Forbes

21

he University of the West Indies will host its 10th annual Toronto Gala on April 6, 2019, benefitting its scholarship fund and honouring Caribbean and Canadian leaders and organisations.

Justice Gregory Regis is one of three leaders who will receive the Vice Chancellor’s Award. This award is presented to individuals of Caribbean-Canadian heritage, who have attained success in their field of endeavour.

Justice Regis is a former regional senior judge from the Ontario Court of Justice and a distinguished visiting professor at Ryerson University.

Also receiving the Vice Chancellor’s Award are Dr. Joy Spence, a UWI alumnus and master blender at Appleton Estate Rum, and

Dr. Juliet Daniel, associate professor in the Department of Biology, McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont. She is also actively involved in the Afro-Caribbean community in Hamilton and Toronto.

Four-time Grammy Award winning Jamaican reggae recording artist Damian Marley will receive the Luminary Award a the Gala alongside Canadian recording artist Deborah Cox at the event to be held at Toronto’s Ritz-Carlton.

Cox and Marley are the fifth and sixth acclaimed musical artists to receive the Luminary Award. The Luminary Award is given to people of Caribbean Heritage who are outstanding achievers on an international scale in their respective fields or people who have brought prominence to the Caribbean or to issues which affect the region.

The G. Raymond Chang Award will be presented to LebaneseCanadian businessman and philanthropist Dr. Mohamad Fakih. Fakih is the CEO of Paramount Fine Foods.

Sandals Resorts, a Jamaican operator of all-inclusive resorts for couples in the Caribbean will be presented with the Chancellor’s Award.

This award is presented to Caribbean organisations/ institutions that have achieved outstanding success, or Canadian organisations/institutions that have contributed significantly to the Caribbean (West Indies) or brought to prominence issues which affect the region.

--- John Chunn

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE SAINT LUCIA CLAIM NO. SLUHCV2006/0704

EXECUTIVE SEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT The Saint Lucia National Trust was established in 1975 by an Act of Parliament to protect and preserve for the benefit of the State, places of natural beauty and their flora and fauna, and places and objects of cultural significance.

The Trust manages twenty five sites but its work is focused on its mandate at the national level. It is a membership organisation that employs professional and support staff to fulfil its mandate and is governed by a Council.

The Trust is seeking to engage the services of a suitably qualified person to fill the post of Director, which will become vacant later this year. To this end, interested persons are invited to review the job description at www.slunatrust.org and to submit their applications to natrust@slunatrust.org by March 1, 2019.

BETWEEN: FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK (BARBADOS) LIMITED Formerly CIBC CARIBBEAN LIMITED Claimant and

1. MONA DONAVAN

2. LUCIUS GERMAIN GIRARD

Defendants NOTICE OF HEARING

TAKE NOTICE that the Application for Permission to do an Inspection of Property to Undertake Valuation & A Valuation filed in this matter has been scheduled for Chamber Hearing at the High Court of Justice, La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street in the city of Castries on Wednesday, the 6th day of March, 2019 at 9 o’clock in the forenoon before Justice Cadie St RoseAlbertini.

DATED: this 1st day of February, 2019 (Sgd.) L. Soomer-James for REGISTRAR OF THE HIGH COURT To: FOSTERS

Legal Practitioner for the Claimant

Robin Kelton Bldg. Choc Bay, Castries

Mona Donavan Defendant in Person Sans Souci, Castries

Lucius Germain Girard Defendant in Person Sans Souci, Castries

The Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Tel. No. 758 468-7500, Fax No. 758 468-7543. The Office is open between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Friday except public holidays. Email stluhco@eccourts.org.

22

international

www.stluciastar.com

february 23, 2019 THE STAR

Will Karl Lagerfeld make Choupette the world's richest cat or will his £150 million go to his American godson? necklaces, a chef and a hairdresser.

Lagerfeld said in a previous interview: "Even if she sleeps, she doesn't want to be alone. She's like a chic s the fashion world lady, like a kept woman with mourns Chanel icon Karl her personal maid. They play Lagerfeld, his beloved cat with her, they have to take Choupette is one of a number care of her beautiful white hair, who could be set to inherit his the beauty treatments for her £150million fortune, along with eyes, and they entertain her. his model godson.

She is the centre of the world.

Lagerfeld died aged 85 in hospital in Paris on Tuesday, Karl Lagerfeld posing with his beautiful Birman cat in a If you saw her, you would photo from Choupette's official Instagram. understand." leaving the fashion world

Likening her to Hollywood reeling at the loss of the man screen siren Greta Garbo, he who rescued Chanel and spent cat were nominated the 'heir' Choupette is mine," and would also said of Choupette: "There three decades as the label's through an association or later joke that he abducted is something unforgettable artistic director. foundation. her before turning her into an about her, the way she moves,

One of the designer's

Others who might be in line international model. the way she plays. She’s an most important companions in for a slice of his fortune, are his Choupette began her inspiration for elegance. For later life was his Birman cat. male model muse Brad Kroenig modelling career in August attitude."

Choupette, who he has called and Kroenig's son Hudson, 2012, posing in the arms of

The eight-year-old feline his one true love and famously Lagerfeld's godson and model.

French supermodel Laetitia favours walks along the said he would marry if it were Hudson worked with Lagerfeld Casta by the Eiffel Tower. catwalk over walks in the park legal, has enjoyed a life of since the age of two, according The cat has since been used and prefers hitting the shopping luxury, being transported around to Vanity Fair, and the young in numerous advertising mall or lounging in antique lace the world and waited on by her model caused a stir when he campaigns, including for Opel to frolics in the garden. And in own entourage of staff, and has walked down the catwalk in cars and various make-up true diva style, she doesn't just made more than £2.5million Paris, wearing Chanel on his ranges. A whole collection have one name. She has three. herself. debut in 2011. titled 'Choupette in Love' was "Her name is Choupette,

Lagerfeld's massive

Last April Lagerfeld told launched in honour of the Princess Choupette or Miss wealth could end up in the Numéro magazine: "There will cat and a Chanel range was Choupette. She’s snow white feline's paws if certain legal be no funeral. I'd rather die! inspired by the cat's eyes. with touches of caramel structures are arranged, it has I've asked to be cremated and

The gorgeous Birman around the eyes, ears and on been claimed. Last year he told want my ashes to be scattered cat, which has a silky white her endless boa-like feather an interviewer that 'among along with my mother's . . . and coat and deep blue eyes has tail," Lagerfeld once told i.D others'—which could include Choupette's, if she dies before I more than 128,000 Instagram magazine. his young godson, Hudson do." followers. Françoise and

The blue-eyed kitty has Kroenig—he would be giving

Originally belonging to Marjorie keep the cat company been the inspiration for many of his riches to Choupette.

Baptiste Giabiconi, after two when her 'daddy' isn't around Lagerfeld's designs, including

Under German law such an weeks of house-sitting for the and tend to her every whim. a black-and-white capsule arrangement could be feasible, French model in 2011, Lagerfeld In addition, Choupette has her collection starting at $465, as according to Le Figaro, if the told him: "I'm sorry but own collection of diamond

By Peter Allen in Paris and Sara Malm and Ross Ibbetson for Mailonline

A

Mom arrested after posting viral video of school fight for ‘notoriety’

A

Louisiana mom faces charges in connection to a school fistfight—though it’s unclear if she was present for the brawl, according to officials.

Maegan Adkins-Barras, 32, was arrested Wednesday for sharing a viral video showing a fight between two students at Acadiana High School in Lafayette, the Scott Police Department said.

The mom admitted to authorities the footage was from her son’s cellphone. After receiving the video, she posted the clip on social media where it was “shared repeatedly,” according to police.

The footage showed a student throwing a punch that

caused another boy to fall and strike his head on a concrete bench before collapsing to the ground. The altercation landed the juvenile in the hospital, officials said.

Police say AdkinsBarras may not have thrown any punches, but she had a responsibility to report the crime.

“Parents who receive information concerning criminal activity on school campuses are urged to contact their local police department or school administration,” police said Wednesday. “Posting videos and photos of illegal activity on social media is against the law in the State of Louisiana.”

Charges were filed against

Maegan Adkins-Barras

the mom for unlawful posting of criminal activity for notoriety and publicity.

She was arrested and booked at Lafayette Parish Correctional Centers, where no bond has been set. If convicted, Adkins-Barras could face six months behind bars.

well as a scented candle which featured her portrait and cost more than $250.

But Choupette isn't a kept kitty, for she made more than £2.3million in one year alone after appearing in just two ad campaigns—one for Japenese beauty product Shu Uemura, and for German car company Vauxhall.

Speaking of his desire to make their relationship 'official', Lagerfeld once said: 'There is no marriage, yet, for human beings and animals . . . I never thought that I would fall in love like this with a cat.

"I look a lot like her. We’re really like an old couple. In fact, she maintains it [my beard] for me; we sleep on the same pillow and she spends her life licking it."

Other luxuries Choupette enjoys include her own bedroom suite with sound system, travelling on private jets, and eating at the table with Lagerfeld from crystal Goyard dishes. In fact, in December 2018, Page Six revealed that every Christmas, Chef Ozuru (formerly of Nobu Paris) "whips up a special meal of Japanesestyle beef or chicken gelée with asparagus".

Even Vogue's editor-inchief, Anna Wintour, was drawn to the animal, telling people at the British Fashion Awards in 2015 that she would like to be reborn as Choupette in the next life.

It is not yet known who will look after Choupette after Lagerfeld's sudden death which shocked the fashion world.

The German-born artistic director for Chanel had looked increasingly frail in recent months, and did not come out to take a bow at Chanel's couture show in Paris in January, something the company attributed to him being "too tired".

"He hadn't gone on about his illness, but battled it very bravely," said one source. "Karl was very proud of his fitness and healthy living, so the pancreatic cancer came as a huge shock."

An official statement published on his Instagram said: "The House of KARL LAGERFELD shares, with deep emotion and sadness, the passing of its creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, on February 19, 2019, in Paris, France.

"He was one of the most influential and celebrated

designers of the 21st century and an iconic, universal symbol of style. Driven by a phenomenal sense of creativity, Karl was passionate, powerful and intensely curious.

"He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as one of the greatest designers of our time, and there are no words to express how much he will be missed."

Lagerfeld—dubbed 'Kaiser Karl' and 'Fashion Meister'— was worshiped like a god in fashion circles around the world up until his death.

The Hamburg-born son of a German mother and Swedish father, left his home country for France and the capital of fashion—Paris—in his early 20s and is best known for his association with Chanel, dating back to 1983. But Lagerfeld, who simultaneously churned out collections for LVMH's Fendi and his eponymous label—an unheard of feat in fashion—was also a brand in his own right, much thanks to his unique style.

In his later years, he sported dark suits, white, pony-tailed hair and tinted sunglasses, which made him instantly recognisable, even outside the court of haute couture.

However, his appearance and favourite accessory changed over the years—for a long time he would carry a fan everywhere he went.

Known to adore Diet Coke, Lagerfeld said he shed weight in the early 2000s to fit into the razor-thin suits brought in by Christian Dior's then menswear designer Hedi Slimane.

In rare moments when he was not working, Lagerfeld retired to one of his many homes in Paris, Germany, Italy or Monaco, all of them lavish carbon copies of 18th-century interiors.

While famously reluctant to discuss his love life, Lagerfeld opened up about his partner of 18 years, the late Frenchman Jacques de Bascher, in a 2017 book. Speaking to author Marie Ottavi for her book about De Bascher, who died of AIDS aged 38, Lagerfeld revealed that during his partner's final days he slept in a cot next to his hospital bed. De Bascher was well known in Paris high society, in particular for his debauched parties, but even though the couple were together for nearly two decades, until his death in 1989, Lagerfeld said they never had sex.

THE STAR

february 23, 2019

classified 23

www.stluciastar.com

Cabinet accepts National Marijuana Commission recommendations

HOUSE FOR RENT at Beausejour

3 bedroom (master bd) 2 bath next to the Daren Sammy Stadium The house is inclusive of parking, hot and cold water, internet and cable.

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FOR SALE 3 STORY BUILDING IN CASTRIES FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

1-758-486-9410

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Place your classified ads in the STAR Newspaper and on our website: www.stluciastar.com Cabinet meeting with members of the St. Kitts and Nevis (National) Marijuana Commission in Nevis.

D

r. the Honourable Timothy Harris-led Team Unity administration has accepted more than a dozen broad-based recommendations presented by the St. Kitts & Nevis (National) Marijuana Commission in its final report to the Cabinet on the way forward for the use of marijuana in the country.

The Commission’s report was presented to the Office of the Prime Minister on January 10. This was followed by a meeting between Cabinet members and members of the Commission on February 18 in Nevis where several of the recommendations were further deliberated.

The accepted recommendations include, inter alia, an amendment to the Drugs Act, having regard to scientific developments since the Act was passed in 1986; the use of cannabis and its derivatives for medicinal and scientific purposes permitted under license and a strict legislated regime; penalty for possession of less than 15 grams of cannabis be reduced to a ticketable offence without a criminal record; penalty for the growth of less than five plants per household should be reduced to a ticketable office without a criminal record, as well as the creation of a massive public

messaging programme prior to any changes in the law and continuing thereafter informing the public of the benefits and risks and the potential harm to young persons regarding the use of cannabis.

Prime Minister Harris stated in the February 20 sitting of the National Assembly that the National Marijuana Commission was “judicious and sensible in their recommendations” and noted, “The acceptance of these recommendations put forward unanimously by the National Marijuana Commission portends some fundamental changes to existing laws in St. Kitts and Nevis which the Cabinet will have to consider carefully and consult further on.”

Notably, the prime minister said the Commission could not agree that cannabis should be legalized for religious purposes or that it should be legalized for recreational purposes.

“The Cabinet considers therefore that a phased approach is advisable taking the unanimous recommendations of the Commission as our first steps and thereafter consider the other areas on which unanimity could not be achieved, and that would be the prudent approach to take,” the prime minister added.

In practical terms, Prime Minister Harris said

his Cabinet will consider and consult further on creating the framework for the use of cannabis for medicinal purposes and for the development of the medical cannabis industry in St. Kitts and Nevis.

“At the same time, it means that those found with less than 15 grams of cannabis or growing less than five plants would receive ticketable offences only, and of course their criminal record would not reflect adversely with respect to these. Those currently in prison on convictions for small amounts [of 15 grams] should have their sentences reviewed and anyone convicted for such small amounts would have their conviction records appropriately cleared up,” the prime minister said.

Prime Minister Harris thanked the members of the National Marijuana Commission on the quality of their final report “which has established important signposts and given guidance to my Government” and stated that this approach of widespread consultation on a controversial issue, such as cannabis, adopted by this Government will become the model for addressing such issues in a modern democratic society such as St. Kitts and Nevis.

-- St. Kitts & Nevis Observer

Call the STAR at 450-7827 and ask for our sales department

JOB VACANCY

Driver’s Wanted

Must Carry E Endorsements Must be experienced over 4 years Manual Driven Vehicles Please visit our office in beausejour for interviews.

Or contact 450 4001 for more details.

INVITATION FOR TENDERS

To supply and install ICT equipment at the National Skills Development Centre – St. Lucia The National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission invites tenders from eligible Telecommunications Providers and Computer Suppliers to supply and install ICT equipment at the National Skills Development Centre, St. Lucia.

The project will span across our four (4) training centres which are located in the following areas: 1. Bisee Industrial Estate, Castries- Main Campus 2. Patience, Mon Repos- Agricultural & Architectural Campus 3. St. Jude’s Highway, Vieux Fort- Hospitality Campus 4. La Fargue, Choiseul- Arts & Craft Campus 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, April 3rd, 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 23, 2019

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$2.00

S&S SAINT LUCIA

Photo by Bill Mortley

BOTTLED OR RAW! Grass Is Grass

Happy 40th Independence Anniversary St. Lucia!

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