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SATURDAY, JANUARY 18, 2020

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PM’s New Year Address

CHASTANET REVISITS RAMSAHOYE REPORT! Inside: STAR Person of the Year!

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Issue 40

THE STASRSWEEK BUSINE IN THIS EDITION

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page 4

BY CATHERINE

MORRIS, STAR

BUSINESSWEEK

| 18 Jan,

2020

SBW

THE STAR K BUSINESSWEE

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CORRESPONDEN

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t etrospec R in 9 1 0 2 ew on of a N si ng The Vi Continui l! cia For Al Saint Lu

• Tel: (758) 450-0021 / 31 / 728 1000 • Fax: (758) 450-0092 • Email: info@bluewatersslu.com • Website: www.bluewatersslu.com

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Saint Lucian Industries show great export successes worldwide through assistance received from Export Saint Lucia

ver the past few years, the Government of Saint Lucia through Export Saint Lucia, formerly the Trade Export Promotion Agency (TEPA), has continued to support the development of the island’s Industries with its overarching thrust toward economic development. Export Saint Lucia has undergone some significant changes in order to keep pace and to thrive in the ever-shifting landscape of trade, exports, and promotion. The CEO of Export Saint Lucia, Ms. Sunita Daniel, has reported that these changes saw innovation and creativity come to the fore on multiple occasions, and 2019 was no different. The driving force behind any economy is its small businesses. Export Saint Lucia has sought, through its work programme, to develop these businesses, thereby positively impacting their bottom line and ability to create and sustain employment. The expansion of this sector is key to the expansion of the country's GDP. The growth of these businesses was the most fulfilling and rewarding symbol of Export Saint Lucia's success. During the course of last year, Export Saint Lucia took on a number of ambitious challenges, one of them being the export of sun-dried Saint Lucian seamoss to the UK and US markets, a first for Saint Lucia. These exports have been increasing and sustained; as a result, exports of sun-dried seamoss have increased by $500,000 and rejuvenated the zeal of seamoss farmers to increase production. This has had a direct impact on job creation in rural communities on the east coast: Praslin, Micoud and Eau Piquant, as over 100 new farmers have gone into cultivation. Another endeavour of Export Saint Lucia has been assisting traditional farmers with sourcing new markets to export fresh agricultural produce. Mangal Trading, Canelles Farms, Perineau’s Exports and other suppliers of agricultural produce have been direct beneficiaries and consequently, are making much headway into these new markets. Farmers can be confident that more avenues

JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

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Sunita Daniel, CEO of Export Saint Lucia, looks forward to continued economic growth in 2020.

are being created for the sale of their diverse, agricultural produce. Further to providing support and obtaining new markets, Export Saint Lucia has spearheaded the branding of Saint Lucia Bananas in an effort to increase exports and create a brand known internationally. To further strengthen the capacity of farmers to exploit new markets, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with the Black Bay Farmers’ Cooperative. Such collaboration and interventions will continue in 2020 and beyond. This year, Export Saint Lucia anticipates that work with honey farmers will begin under its “Bee City” project. Export Saint Lucia, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and other affiliate agencies, secured funding from Compete Caribbean towards the development of a cluster aimed at developing the apiary industry in Saint Lucia with the ultimate goal of exporting natural honey. The manufacturing sector was very active in 2019, both regionally and internationally. Within the region, Export Saint Lucia introduced Saint Lucian contractors and furniture manufacturers to the Dominican market, during a time when professional services were sought to help with rebuilding after Hurricane Maria. Through

Export Saint Lucia, Dominica also welcomed one of its health and wellness clients, Frances’ Rub. The product entered the Dominican market in the later part of 2019 and the exporter said she has no intention of stopping there. In 2019 Export Saint Lucia paid much attention to the creative sector. Worldwide, the creative industries have been recognized as a force to be reckoned with, adding immense value to a nation’s GDP. During the past year, avenues were created for growth and exposure for Saint Lucia’s creative industry professionals. In fashion, Export Saint Lucia continued to work with designers, helping some become exportready, while helping others to capitalize on opportunities in international markets. In music, Export Saint Lucia continued to help with the growth of the popular Dennery Segment genre with an Image and Marketing Workshop, aimed at boosting participants’ profiles and visibility. The facilitator, International Stephen, was able to secure performances for some Saint Lucian artists at the renowned 2019 Miami Carnival. And of course, the ‘Saint Lucia Art Showcase’ held in July last year saw artists and artisans from across the island being helped to put on a grand spectacle of the best that Saint Lucia has to offer.

BAD LAW, GOOD RIDDANCE

n Florida, it is illegal for a married woman to go skydiving on a Sunday. Breaking the law can result in fines, arrest and jail time. In British Colombia, it is illegal to kill Bigfoot. Feather mattresses are banned in Argentina because "such an indulgence induces and encourages lascivious feelings". Anyone causing a nuclear explosion in Germany faces five years in jail. These are all laws that would have caused British Judge Lord Griffiths to repeat what he said in the 1992 case of R. v. Kearley, “I believe that most laymen . . . would reply, ‘The law is an ass’.” This comment, comparing the law with a perissodactyl mammal of the genus Equidae, was first made famous by the British author Charles Dickens in the novel Oliver Twist when one of his characters, with the extremely appropriate name of Bumble, stated, “If the law supposed that, the law is an ass, a idiot.” Some people have gone beyond that comparison. One writer has said the law is an “ass-pirin”, not so much a pain-killer but an “anal-gesic” with posterior motives. In many Caribbean countries the law is an

“ass-ociation” with the power of regulating its own trade and members, while ignoring that it is perceived by some citizens as a cabal and social club, protecting and shielding its flock from an incensed clientele, an increasing number of whom are complaining about misconduct, including fraudulent practices by attorneys. For these people, the law is an “ass-essory” both before and after the fact. There are those who see the law as an “ass-et” providing its practitioners with succour and suckers at the same time. But for me and countless others it is truly an ASS or “Anachronistic, Stupid Shibboleths” in the sense of "shibboleth" meaning "a custom, principle, or belief distinguishing a particular class or group of people, especially a long-standing one regarded as outmoded or no longer important". If this is not true, then why is it illegal for a married woman to go skydiving in Florida on a Sunday? Or why, because a few vandals left gum in the trains, did Singapore ban all gum substances in 1992? There are others. You may not own more than 110 pounds of potatoes at one time in Western Australia. Scotsmen

must not wear anything under their kilts, or be fined two beers. In Portugal you cannot urinate in the ocean despite the difficulty in identifying a culprit. Even if their underwear is too tight, men caught publicly adjusting their frontal fit in Milan, Italy, can be fined. If you are between 40 and 74 years old, a citizen of Japan, and your waistsize is over 33.5 inches for men and 35 inches for women, you will be deemed “Metabo” or overweight. The law demands an annual measurement of people within that age group and the health insurers of all companies including government organisations must provide weight loss classes to employees or be fined if they do not meet specific targets. Those who do not lose weight are ostracised. Tony Deyal was last seen warning Trinis of both sexes that the Sedition Act is like the one which makes it illegal to wear lacy underwear in Russia, or being allowed to beat your wife in Huntington, West Virginia, provided that you do it in public on a Sunday.

SLAPS Urgently Needs New Premises for Dogs

he Saint Lucia Animal Protection Society (SLAPS) was delighted when, in 2016, it secured rental premises in Massade, Gros Islet. This enabled the organisation to establish a centre to care for stray, injured and ill dogs and, importantly, to spay and neuter them. Over the past four years, 1,129 dogs and puppies have found shelter with SLAPS at these premises. An incredible total of 1,213 dogs and cats have been spayed/neutered at the clinic there. This week SLAPS was informed that the building has been sold and that it needs to vacate the premises by February 29, 2020. SLAPS is a non-profit organisation run by volunteers. It is reliant on corporate and private donations to sustain its operation, which is to save, help and rehome animals. SLAPS is desperately searching for new premises. It does not have the money to buy a building or a piece of land. It is looking for a place to rent but finding somewhere suitable to house dozens of dogs and puppies is difficult. (Cats and kittens are looked after in separate premises). SLAPS needs land or a building,

Help us find a new home!

preferably away from built-up areas but not too remote as the volunteers need regular access. Can you help? Can you donate funds? At any time, please consider donating, volunteering or fostering but, for now, SLAPS urgently needs a new home for the dogs. You can contact SLAPS on Facebook, through www.stluciaanimals.org/contact or on (758) 457 5277.

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JANUARY 18, 2020

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OCTOBER 18, 2020 THE STAR

St. Lucia mourns death of community leader S aint Lucians—members of the island’s sporting fraternity in particular— were sent into a state of shock early Monday morning with the gruesome discovery of the lifeless body of Cassius Glasgow in his Cedars home, Castries. Police reports say that the corpse was discovered at about 8 a.m. It appeared Glasgow had been shot in the head. Even before police had confirmed the incident graphic images of Glasgow’s naked and bloody body were all over the Internet. Coach of the Big Players Football Club, the 47-year-old man’s life revolved around the sport. Also known as Cassy Boom, Glasgow was also closely associated with the Free Kick Foundation, which seeks to empower young people through football, and provides them opportunities to earn scholarships to United States-based universities. He played a critical role in the Marchand community, where he famously coached countless young football

players. As the deceased’s house was cordoned off with police tape and his body taken away, the cries and screams of devastated family and friends were endless. Shurble Stephens described Cassius as a loving, helpful, down-toearth individual and praised him for his work with young kids. “Cassy boom was a really nice person,” she said, fighting back tears, “a really loving person. What I most admired about Cassy Boom, he would take children from all walks of life, train them, tell them stay off the streets and stay away from violence.” Another friend and colleague, coach Canis Dujon revealed how they tried to build back the community and rid it of the stigma attached to the area. “He being lost, trust me, it’s a very sad moment not only for me but for the community and for the yutes that look at him as a father. His death will touch a lot of hearts, especially the young people in

Cassius Glasgow dedicated much of his time trying to make a difference for young people by training them in football skills.

Canadian Bank Note Company, Limited produces bank notes and payment systems, passports and passport issuing systems, lottery tickets and electronic lottery games, postage stamps, securities certificates, shareholder communications, and other high security documents and related issuing systems. The Company markets its products to government agencies and authorities, as well as to institutional and other customers in more than 40 countries. The company manages and operates the St Lucia National Lottery, through its wholly owned subsidiary CBN St Lucia Inc. _________________________________________________________________________________________________

STUDIO PRODUCTION ASSISTANT our company is seeking a Studio Production Assistant who will be responsible for performing a variety of technical and support functions in the execution of live broadcasts, studio productions, remote and on-air operations. The position requires the candidate to have experience in television, video production, and digital media. You must have a strong attention to detail and the ability to follow precise instructions, be process-oriented and extremely organized.

The ideal candidate possesses two (2) years’ minimum experience in a related field. Computer and IT skills are essential, together with knowledge of cameras, audio and video editing software. The position requires that the candidate have a valid driver’s license, a reliable working vehicle and the ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends. To apply, please send a cover letter along with your curriculum vitae: Email: lottery@cbnsl.com We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please also note that applications received after January 31st, 2020 will not be acknowledged.

Marchand.” Black flags have been hoisted throughout parts of the community in remembrance of the Glasgow. President of the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, Senator Fortuna Belrose, said it was most unfortunate that another community leader has been lost. She expressed hope that the perpetrators are brought to justice. “It shook me,” she added, “because this was a young man who gave his life to youth, working with young people, teaching them skills in sports, teaching them self-confidence, and how to find themselves early in life.” Results from a postmortem examination conducted on Monday revealed the cause of death as traumatic brain injury, secondary to a gunshot wound to the head. Glasgow’s death marked Saint Lucia’s first homicide for the year. On Tuesday, a male individual was taken into police custody in connection with the death. -JSA

2019 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition - St Lucian Winners

he Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest international writing competition for schools, established in 1883. With thousands of young people taking part every year, it is an important way to recognise achievement, elevate youth voices and develop key skills through creative writing. In Saint Lucia, SLUDTERA, a non-profit organisation with a mission to improve communities, has taken on the mantle of promoting the competition. Michelle N. Samuel, the founder and President of SLUDTERA is a competition judge. This year, SLUDTERA partnered with the Saint Lucia Nobel Laureate Committee, under the theme Celebrating Excellence: Vision 20/20, to host a ceremony for the local winners of the competition. The Recognition Ceremony

Sade Gustave (left) and Khadijah Halliday proudly dispaly their certificates.

of the 2019 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition Awardees took place on Wednesday January 15 at the Central Library on Bourbon Street in Castries. Certificates and medals were awarded to Khadijah Halliday, an 18-year-old student at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College for winning Senior Gold and to Sade Gustave, a 13-year-old student at St. Joseph’s Convent for winning Junior Gold. The young ladies will now compete against

entrants from other Commonwealth countries. Should they achieve the top senior or junior gold places, or be a runnerup, they will be invited to Buckingham Palace! SLUDTERA thanks partners who joined it in providing the incentive package for the students: Easy Click Books, Calabash TV, Melly’s Mix It Up Restaurant & Lounge, Dominos Pizza, Trophy Center and the St. Lucia Writer’s Forum.

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JANUARY 18, 2020

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JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

Finally a Bar Association Prez with People on Her Mind! Dean Nestor

ne of the many societal issues confronting our ostensibly beloved island nation is its near dysfunctional criminal justice system, an issue that has been overshadowed by myriad systemic problems, among them our crime rate, our blind-folded education sector, and youth unemployment. Exacerbating the situation is our court system, bogged down as it is by a backlog of cases numbering in the thousands. As is now a wellestablished local ritual, many have chosen to point accusatory fingers at the government, regardless of the party in office. It was no different at Monday’s opening of the Law Year 2020, where everything wrong about the justice mechanism was attributed to a lack, even

an absence, of adequate resources. The recently elected President of the Saint Lucia Bar Association offered a fresh perspective. Touching on the day’s theme, ‘Court Excellence’, Renee St. Rose pointed out what suddenly became obvious. “As officers of the court,” she said, “we need to ensure its resources and the administration of justice are adequate. That means our facilities, our staff, our lawyers, our judges, and our IT departments are up to date. There must be continuous assessment and continuous professional development.” Her riveted attendant colleagues nodded approvingly as Ms St. Rose went on: “We need to critically examine the experience of a court user, a litigant, in our judicial system. I propose that we all take a step back and evaluate that experience to determine how best we can achieve court excellence. The average court

user presently takes a day off from work to attend a court hearing. That means no income for the day, no tips or benefits, and one day less in prescribed vacation days.” Additionally: “The court user too often must sit on uncomfortable chairs, or wait outside in the sun or rain for hours for their case to be called. He or she has no other choice; the available space in the court building is grossly inadequate. There is no indication of when a matter will be called. The litigant cannot risk stepping out for a meal, or even a visit to the washroom, for fear their matter might be called in their absence.” The all too familiar horror story continued: “When their matter is eventually called, it is too often adjourned. Or the user sits in the courtroom with no idea what is happening. In many instances,” said St. Rose, “all it would have taken was for a case manager to telephone lawyers to manage

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Suitably qualified candidates should submit applications to:

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the case and determine its readiness for the hearing, to ensure adequate time slots are given for court hearings and communicated to the lawyers and the litigant.” Those who may have imagined the Bar Association president had fingered all the hot buttons were soon thinking again as St. Rose blew away another defence: “The excuse that there are too many matters on the cause list is unacceptable. Every case and every matter is deserving of time and matter management to take the court user into consideration.” She also pointed out just how impossible it is to hear dozens of trials a day in

Saint Lucia Bar Association President Renee St. Rose’s speech was the highlight of Monday’s Opening of Law Year event at the Financial Administrative Centre.

criminal court. “There is no reason why in 2020 the court should schedule 30 cases at 9:00 a.m. where we all stand around waiting for our matters to be called. We need dedicated case managers to work with the judges

and litigants for adequate scheduling of matters. Time is arguably our most precious resource. And achieving court excellence lies in the consideration of the public, our lawyers and the court user in the scheduling of our cases.”

Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Forty Recommendations. 39: Extradition By the Attorney General’s Chambers and the National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC)

xtradition is a request from a Requesting State for the surrender of an accused in relation to a crime committed in that State. The accused would be located or identified in another State (the Requested State). Recommendation 39 of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Forty Recommendations covers the topic of Extradition. This recommendation requires countries to make money laundering and terrorist financing extraditable offences. As such, countries should ensure that extradition requests relating to money laundering and terrorist financing are executed without delay. Further, countries should take all necessary steps, through legal or regulatory methods, to ensure they do not provide safe havens for persons who have been charged with money laundering and/or terrorist financing offences. For extraditions to be successful, several factors must be in place. It is critical that there are clear

and efficient processes for the timely execution of extradition requests and, when necessary, priority be given to certain cases. Additionally, to ensure the timely progress of extradition matters, a case management system needs to be developed and properly maintained. It is also important that countries do no place restrictive conditions on extradition requests to ensure timely processing. The factors listed above cannot be successful unless there is a proper legal framework. Within Saint Lucia the legislation which governs extraditions is the Extradition Act Cap. 2.10. Countries should have in their domestic laws simplified extradition mechanisms, such as allowing ‘direct transmission of requests for provisional arrests between appropriate authorities’ or extraditing persons based on a warrant of arrest or judgements, or having simplified extradition of persons who have consented to waive the formal extradition proceedings. It is incumbent upon governments to ensure that the competent authority responsible for extraditions is properly financed, has adequate technical

resources and is properly staffed with competent personnel who are highly skilled and properly trained. The staff should maintain a high level of professionalism and possess high ethical standards. When a country undergoes a mutual evaluation, assessors will seek to determine whether there are adequate and appropriate laws in place covering extraditions. They will also seek to establish whether these laws are being implemented, and rate the country accordingly. This recommendation, along with Recommendation 36: International Instruments, Recommendation 37: Mutual Legal Assistance and Recommendation 38: Mutual Legal AssistanceFreezing and Confiscation, are closely connected and deal with various aspects of international co-operation. More on the Financial Action Task Force Forty Recommendations can be found on the website of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) at https://www.cfatf-gafic.org. The public is encouraged to visit the Attorney General’s Chambers website at attorneygeneralchambers. com or our Facebook page for more of these articles.

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JANUARY 18, 2020

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“Recognizing the achievements of our esteemedNobel Laureates.”

“ C E L E B R AT I N G EXCELLENCE.”

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JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

Ground breaks on CIP-approved Canelles project Joshua St. Aimee

ormally a tranquil location, the secluded area of Anse Canelles in Micoud was a flurry of activity on Wednesday morning as the official groundbreaking ceremony of the Saint Lucia Canelles Resort got underway. Developed by the Galaxy Group, the resort will be managed by AMResorts, a subsidiary of industry giants Apple Leisure Group. Zoetry and Dreams will be the two brands. In attendance on Wednesday were representatives of the developers, government ministers and residents of the surrounding communities. Following brief opening remarks, the MC Russell Lake welcomed on stage Mr. Jiang Tang, Vice President of Galaxy Group. Looking ahead to the expected completion in 2-3 years, Tang assured that the property, minutes away from Hewanorra International Airport, will provide a quality visitor experience and elevate the surrounding communities by providing employment and backward linkages. “Most of all,” said Tang, “it marks the beginning of what my company hopes will be a long and mutually fruitful relationship.” Tang praised the government and AMResorts, without whom, he said, the ambitious project would not be possible.

Government officials and representatives of the developers at this week’s ceremonial groundbreaking in Canelles, Micoud. All expressed confidence in the project.

Mr. Fernando Fernandez, Vice President Development of Apple Leisure Group, promised the gathering that the island would become better known over the world as a result of the project. He said: “It’s very easy to come here and say we’re going to

do this, we’re going to do that,but it’s a different thing to really make it happen. But I’m sure that with the support of everybody involved we’re going to make it happen.” International Trade and Investment Minister Bradley Felix shared the developers’

Commerce Minister Bradley Felix says the goal is to create an island of which all nationals can be proud.

enthusiasm. What was about to unfold, he said, was only a small step in the government’s master plan for the nation. He said the goal is to create an island that all Saint Lucians —resident and abroad— will be proud of. “While the government continues to ensure that we preserve the serene beauty of Fair Helen,” said Felix, “we must not be hypocritical about the fact that we have a growing community of young people seeking employment opportunities. We must therefore ensure a delicate balance of development alongside our heritage.” Felix said the developers of the CIP-approved project were rigorously screened and that they have a proven track record within the region and internationally. Pointing to the tourism sector—the biggest driver of Saint Lucia’s economy—he lamented that not all communities have reaped the rewards, Micoud for one. Felix promised this unfair situation will soon change, as the Canelles project creates hundreds of new jobs, from entry to management level.

“For the ambitious and enterprising Micoud and other residents,” Felix promised opportunities are on the horizon! Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee also welcomed the project and heaped praise on Natalie John, a Saint Lucian residing in St. Kitts and Nevis. He said it was she who had connected the Galaxy Group and Saint Lucian authorities. The minister thanked her for her “extraordinary commitment to country”. In the day’s main address Prime Minister Allen Chastanet recalled that there had been numerous attempts at developing the Canelles area but they had never reached fruition. The prime minister outlined several measures he said will be taken in the project’s development, among them: the establishment of an on-site nursery; no wholesale land clearance; construction commencing in the dry season to reduce sedimentation; and no building of coastal structures. He assured that coastal access for fishers, sea-moss harvesters and others will remain unimpeded. Invest

Saint Lucia and the developers will work with horse-riding operators to forge linkages. Chastanet revisited his campaign for office in 2016: “We said we were going to do it exactly how Bradley said—in a very responsible way.” He said he was proud to have this development at a time when the island recently recorded over 400,000 stayover arrivals for the first time; Royal Caribbean and Carnival Corporation will develop the Vieux Fort port; there is an approval in principle for a pre-clearance facility for US citizens; and there are plans for the Switzerland-based Lausanne University to open a local campus. The prime minister also stated that the CIP would play a significant role, not in the hotel development, but in the Canelles Oceanfront Apartments—the project’s real estate aspect. After the event, the STAR caught up with the CEO of the Citizenship by Investment Unit, Mr. Nestor Alfred, who considered the day “a momentous occasion” for his board and staff.

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JANUARY 18, 2020

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JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

CLAUDIUS TELLS IT LIKE IT IS:

DOMINIC FEDEE IS ST. LUCIAN!

ever mind what Saint Lucia’s constitution says. Some in the House, and regardless of what our Constitution might say to the contrary, insist on suggesting the prime minister and his tourism minister cannot feel as Saint Lucians feel because both are foreigners. The PM’s detractors point to the fact that his mother had delivered him in Martinique, but neglect to mention the medical reasons that left her no other choice. As for Dominic Fedee, though born in Guyana, he came here with his Saint Lucian father when he was fourteen years of age. In all events, this is what the supreme law of the land says on the matter of citizenship at Chapter 7, Section 101: “A person born outside Saint Lucia after the commencement of this Constitution shall become a citizen at the date of his or her birth if, at that date, his or her father or mother is a citizen otherwise than by virtue of this

section or Section 99(3).” On Wednesday the former SLP chairman and Senate President Claudius Francis, toward the end of his Straight Up show, took a call from a listener. The voice suggested she was hardly a teenage fan. She started with some tough words about the prime minister’s disapproval of Jeannine Compton-Antoine as a replacement for the outgoing National Trust director. The caller, continuing on the “abusive UWPs”, predictably segued to the “vindictiveness” demonstrated by the UWP administration. And then she went for the government’s collective jugular. “This man is not a Saint Lucian, Dominic Fedee. And he’s like he’s over Saint Lucian. He’s not a Saint Lucian! Jeannine Compton is Saint Lucian. Her father served the country.” Francis cut her short, reminiscent of John McCain, when he admonished a

This week the former SLP chairman and senate president Claudius Francis (centre) said a mouthful about xenophobic callers to his show. Judging by the reaction, not everyone appreciated his candour. The radio presenter has two brothers—Hermangild and Peterson Francis—on the other side of the political divide; the first mentioned (left) is the government’s security minister, the other Mayor of Castries.

VACANCY NOTICE RESEARCH ASSISTANT

RESEARCH ASSISTANT Invest Saint Lucia (ISL) is seeking a Research Assistant to undertake research and data analysis atoResearch achieveAssistant the agency’s objectives and to the business Invest Saint Lucia (ISL) is seeking to undertake research andinform data analysis to achieve the agency’s strategy. The position will The report to the Officer in theOfficer Investment objectives and to inform the business strategy. position willResearch report to the Research in the Investment Services Services Department (ISD). Department (ISD).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Compile investment statistics, economic indicators andeconomic relevant data and provide to stakeholders • Compile investment statistics, indicators and relevant data andin a timely manner provide to stakeholders a timely manner • Work closely with the Central Statistics Office andin other strategic partners to gather relevant statistics • Verify and update ISL’s• official presentations with relevant data Office and other strategic partners Work closely with the Central Statistics to gather relevant statistics • Conducts surveys • Verify and update ISL’s official presentations with relevant data • Respond to data requests • Prepare mission briefs• Conducts surveys RespondOfficer to data • Provide support to the• Research asrequests required

KEY COMPETENCIES:

•

Prepare mission briefs

•

Provide support to the Research Officer as required

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Research, Statistics, Economics, Business Management or related area • Minimum 3 years’ post qualification experience in statistics, research, database usage, graphical analysis of data, KEY COMPETENCIES: report development • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing Research, Statistics, Economics, Business • Strong analytical, critical thinking and research skills Management or related area • Knowledge of statistical qualitative3and quantitative research techniques • Minimum years’ post qualification experience in statistics, research, graphical analysis of data, report development • Proficiency in Microsoft database Office and usage, SPSS, Survey Monkey or other relevant research applications and software • Strong analytical, critical thinking and research skills • Excellent oral and written communication skills qualitative and quantitative research techniques • Knowledge of statistical • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SPSS, Survey Monkey or other relevant • Proven ability to work in a demanding, deadline-driven environment

REMUNERATION

• •

research applications and software Excellent oral and written communication skills Proven ability to work in a demanding, deadline-driven environment

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 RESEARCH 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 31st January 2020 at 4:30p.m. Only applicants who meet the required qualifications and experience will be acknowledged.

supporter for suggesting Barack Obama was born in Africa. “No, no, no, no,” said the host of Straight Up. “I’m not getting involved in that. Dominic Fedee may not be a Saint Lucian by birth but he is a Saint Lucian. He is a citizen of Saint Lucia. So let’s not go into that. Let’s keep the criticisms valid because you see, those UWPs are so good, you make an entire book of factual comments, with just one mistake, and they’ll harp on it. So let’s never give them that.” The tone was that of a father scolding his 4-year-old daughter—ever so gently. “Okay let’s no go into that,” said the caller, almost apologetically backing off. Clearly that was not the reaction she had counted on. Not in election season. Just in case there were others of a mind similar to his last caller’s, Francis issued another warning, albeit sugared. “Yeah folks, we are setting the tone today. I am telling you I was very tolerant of crap and I believe in allowing people to speak. But if you’re going to show your utter stupidity by your comments, that’s not going to happen this year.” When this reporter questioned Francis on the xenophobic comments from his party colleagues in the House, he said: “I’m not getting involved with what others said or didn’t say. I’m responsible

only for what I’ve said, and I stand by it. That I am a Labour person doesn’t mean I support what other people say. The man [Fedee] is Saint Lucian and I will refer to him and treat him as a fellow Saint Lucian.” As stated earlier, it has become quite normal to hear even show hosts implying the government is especially partial to “foreigners” because at least two of its members are also foreigners. One TV personality recently referred to Fedee as “that character who represents us from the foreign country”. Not quite precisely stated, but his message was not lost. The same media personality is often heard saying: “All Saint Lucians know by now that Allen Chastanet, the prime minister of this country, is not one of us. He cannot speak our language. He was not born here!” It is anyone’s guess as to which is worse: an inability to speak Kwéyòl or to have been born in one of our sister islands because of delivery complications beyond the talent of local medical staff. In any case, it is ludicrous to suggest Allen Chastanet cannot speak Kwéyòl because he was born at a Martinique hospital and was all of six days old when his mother took him home to his father in Saint. Lucia. The line suggests that by virtue alone of where he was born, Allen Chastanet should be fluent in French!

Ironically, Allen Chastanet’s detractors often begin their diatribes by praising the departed Sir John Compton, recalling “his great service to this country” and so on. The inconvenient truth is that in his time Sir John was often castigated as a native of Bequia. It made headlines when Sir James Mitchell, while addressing a UWP convention at Gros Islet, poked fun at himself and his friend, the prime minister of Saint Lucia. His arm wrapped around Compton’s shoulders, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines PM said, with obvious pride: “The Vincie boys didn’t do badly for our countries!” Sir John was 14 years old when he first came here with his Saint Lucian mother, later to place his stamp on almost everything worthwhile in sight, some of which are named in his honour. His deputy prime minister, Sir George Mallet, also took heat from their opposition, as several election pamphlets dating back to the mid-sixties indelibly confirm. In the meantime, we take special pride in native Saint Lucians and their foreignborn offspring who make it big in places like the UK, the United States, France and so on—whether in the arts, sport or politics. Then again, no one ever said prejudice had to be synonymous with intellect! -DN

THE STAR

LOCAL 11

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JANUARY 18, 2020

PM: WE CANNOT RESOLVE CRIME WITHOUT LOOKING AT HOW WE RESOLVE CONFLICT

f the many facets of Saint Lucian life touched on by Prime Minister Allen Chastanet in his 2020 New Year’s speech on Sunday, crime and security perhaps tops the list in terms of importance. The arrest of a man in possession of an M4 at Morne Du Don, not to say the fatal shooting of Cassius Glasgow, served to underscore the prime minister’s concerns. “We cannot and will not deny that the crime situation continues to affect us deeply,” he said Sunday. “We feel it every time a young person loses his or her life through violence. It not only impacts their families but we also lose what they may have contributed to the development of our society.” That Glasgow may have been shot even as the prime minister was speaking is nothing short of discombobulating. Echoing a recent statement by the police,

Though darkened by the tragic death of Cassius Glasgow, PM Allen Chastanet’s [pictured] New Year’s speech offered hope that Saint Lucians will see a reduction in crime in 2020.

ELECTIONSOF OFTHE THE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL ELECTIONS COUNCIL ELECTIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (Wednesday, 29 April, 2020) th th (Wednesday, (Wednesday, 29 29th April, April, 2020) 2020)

NOTICE NOTICE �n conformity �ith Section ��.�� of the Constitution of the St. Lucia Civil

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 First Vice President   Second Vice President  President President  First Vice  Third Vice President  First Vice President President  Secretary  Second Vice  Second Vice President President  Treasurer   Third Third Vice Vice President President  Assistant Secretary/Assistant Treasurer  Secretary Secretary Trustee

  Treasurer Treasurer  Assistant Secretary/Assistant Treasurer  Assistant Secretary/Assistant Treasurer �em�ers are as�ed to note, that candidates �ho may �ish to run for more  Trustee  �fTrustee than one �osition MUST indicate so. the candidate is elected for more than one �osition, the candidate �ill inform the Elections Commission of the

�em�ers are as�ed to �osition he/she chooses. �em�ers are as�ed to note, note, that that candidates candidates �ho �ho may may �ish �ish to to run run for for more more than one one �osition than �osition MUST MUST indicate indicate so. so. �f �f the the candidate candidate is is elected elected for for more more than than 16TH MARCH, BY THE OF BUSINESS DAY (5:00 PM) one DEADLINE: �osition, MONDAY, the candidate candidate �ill 2020 inform theEND Elections Commission of the the one �osition, the �ill inform the Elections Commission of �osition he/she he/she chooses. chooses. �osition TH DEADLINE: DEADLINE: MONDAY, MONDAY, 16 16TH MARCH, MARCH, 2020 2020 BY BY THE THE END END OF OF BUSINESS BUSINESS DAY DAY (5:00 (5:00 PM) PM)

the prime minister reiterated that we cannot hope to deal effectively with crime “without seriously considering how we live, raise our children, our interactions, the way we resolve conflict and how impulsive we may be about settling scores”. At the end of 2019 police superintendent George Nicholas blamed most local homicides on poor conflict resolution. In Sunday’s address the PM said: “We must continuously work on this as a society, even as the government implements measures to help prevent, detect and solve crime. Internally, we have started a process of measuring the results on a weekly basis. While we have not achieved the kind of success we would all want, we know that the effort we are making will pay off. We remain committed to the multi-pronged strategy to

significantly reduce crime.” Chastanet also promised “in the next few weeks” to announce changes intended to accelerate measures to bring crime under control and to strengthen the police force. On Wednesday at a police press conference, Milton Desir, when asked to comment on the PM’s remarks, said: “I cannot go into detail now but there are plans to restructure the police force. I’ve spoken to my police executive and we are hoping that 2020 will be a better policing year in terms of figures.” The crime section of the New Year’s speech ended with Chastanet citing some of what his government has done to help ameliorate the crime situation: “The modernization of the police force with communications equipment, and vehicles; the installation of 95 CCTV camera feeds; the recruitment of 80 new officers; the reopening of the forensic

lab; the restoration of coastguard vessels operations and a restored radar system.” Finally, there’s this from the prime minister: “I must take a moment to assure Saint Lucians that despite the empty accusations and spreading of false news that seems to pervade our society of late, our government remains committed to good governance and transparency. In April 2017 we illustrated this by passing the landmark amendment to the Crown Proceedings Act, which was a recommendation of the 2009 Ramsahoye Commission of Inquiry. The amendment allows for the recovery of public funds not to be statute bound. It is worth noting that during that particular sitting of parliament, the Opposition chose not to remain in the House to discuss this critical matter.” --DN

12 COMMENT

JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

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STAR PERSON

good follower is complicated in ways that are similar to being Rick Wayne a good leader. It means being engaged. It means paying attention. It means having the courage to speak up when f you want to lead you must something’s wrong and it also first learn to follow, advised one of the Founding Fathers, means having the energy and activism to support a leader or Benjamin Franklin, who was manager who’s doing things among other things also a wisely.” Freemason and a politician. In short: good followers At Matthew 20:26, the Bible are not sheep, a point that says: “Whoever wants to be Ronald E. Riggio, associate a leader among you must be dean of the faculty at your servant.” Predictably, Kravis Leadership Institute whenever the subject of leadership arises both sources in Claremont, California, underscores. “In many are cited (not surprisingly, business sectors,” he points by individuals determined to out, "followers are the ones discourage over-ambitious notions among their ranks) as who are doing much of the creative work, although the if the words of Matthew and leader may get most of the Franklin were calculated to credit. Leaders who have been convey the same message. good followers understand It seems to me Matthew was how to work with people to delivering a sermon about humility, while Franklin had his bring out the best in them. Did Steve Jobs really create the inventor’s mind set on things IPod and IPhone,” he asks, “or political. By the way, of the was it the creative collective of seven key Founding Fathers, team members at Apple?” two were never elected In order to be a good President—one of whom was follower you need to be able to Ben Franklin! think for yourself, adds Riggio. Lieutenant General Colin “The best followers support Powell, neither a regular and aid the leader when he politician nor a biblical figure, or she is doing the right thing, is well placed to address the and stand up to the leader subject under discussion. when he or she is headed in “Leadership is all about the wrong direction.” people,” he has written. “It And so we come to the is not about organizations. It local politician often curiously is not about plans. It is not about strategies. It is all about referred to by wishful-thinking sections of the media as “the people—motivating people prime minister in waiting,” to get the job done. You have who in fact is the leader of the to be a people motivator.” House opposition—whatever Which on reflection has me else might be his shared secret wondering, save for the tax collector turned Christ apostle, aspirations. As can easily be verified, thanks to countless why those who speak most eloquently of the rewards from interviews readily accessible on the Internet, from Hansard, being a follower say not a and other reliable sources, for word, not a word, not a word at least a quarter of a century about the followed. Philip J. Pierre expressed Barbara Kellerman is a leadership lecturer at Harvard total satisfaction with being deputy this and deputy that. University’s John F. Kennedy He took every opportunity School of Government. In also to advertise the virtues her book Fellowship: How Followers are Creating Change associated in certain quarters with being a faithful and Changing Leaders, she writes: “Being a good follower follower. There is nothing in his record to indicate a means having the courage to dissent if you think your leader, boat rocker in his soul. Now that he is campaigning for manager, or superior, is doing the opportunity to take this something wrong-headed. country where it has never That’s not always easy. It requires the guts and strength been before, some might of conviction that are essential usefully ask: How much did Pierre learn from walking in to good leadership. Being a

the footsteps of others? How effective was he as a follower? Did he follow too closely? How much did he contribute in his follower capacity to the successes or failures of his leader? Did he support him proudly when he did the right thing? Did he “stand up to him when he headed in the wrong direction?” When it comes to confronting tough decisions, is Philip J. Pierre made of the right stuff? In 1996, following his candidate’s disastrous performance against Vaughan Lewis and George Odlum in the Central Castries by-election, the Labour Party leader Julian Hunte, reacting to voices in his head that warned him treachery was afoot, threw in the towel midway through an emergency meeting convened at party headquarters to determine his immediate future. If by his resignation Hunte hoped to establish his indispensability, then he grossly underestimated the Brutus knives among his executive. For some time they had been meeting surreptitiously with key members of the newly formed Citizens Democratic Party, led by Calixte George, and with a reluctant Kenny Anthony, at the time general counsel of the Caribbean Community Secretariat in Guyana. If Anthony still burned from the war wounds of 1979 that finally had brought about his departure from the fold, Hunte’s unexpected resignation proved the perfect balm. It wasn’t long before the St. Lucia Labour Party was bragging about the virtues of the heir apparent that some in the UWP ridiculed as the SLP’s “great white hopeless,” notwithstanding his impressive academic accomplishments. What the Labour hotshots kept to themselves was that Anthony’s acceptance of their gift was conditional: he would go through the motions of contesting for the party’s premier position—but only if he had no challengers. Also, that in the event the SLP won the 1997 general elections the CDP leader would be deputy prime minister. Fellow CDP member Lawson Calderon

Has a new Philip J. Pierre (right) emerged from the obscuring sh The a

would head a “super ministry” with responsibility for foreign affairs, trade, and tourism. Even the best-laid plans sometimes go up in smoke, especially when they depend on voter attitude. No matter,

Pierre alone knows why he considered Kenny Anthony better qualified to lead than he who was party chairman at the time of the big walkout. The CDP frontmen had one thing in common: all were disgruntled

former members of the Labour Party under Julian Hunte. Despite that he was demonstrably underestimated by the new leader, Pierre contested the ’97 elections against Romanus Lansiquot— arguably the toughest

THE STAR

JANUARY 18, 2020

COMMENT 13

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OF THE YEAR!

hadow of his party’s earlier leadership? Did he follow too closely behind his former leader? answer is blowing in the wind!

candidate on the UWP slate. If his party colleagues believed they were throwing him to the wolves, so to speak, they had good reason to think again when Pierre not only won the Castries East seat by over a thousand votes but he also

topped the polls. The SLP won 16 of the 17 constituencies in contention. We may well ask, considering the existing mood for change, would the result have been different with Pierre leading? Better to ask

why he chose instead to follow someone with no experience as an election candidate and with a propensity for deserting the troops in his own best interests. Pierre, on the other hand, had crossed swords with

Lansiquot and learned much from the experience. In the aftermath of the 2001 general elections, when even his staunchest supporters sensed the electorate was growing weary

of Kenny Anthony’s leadership, I suggested to Pierre it might be the right time to start positioning himself to take over. Nothing could’ve been further from his mind, I hasten to add. No matter it was obvious his leader considered others better placed to succeed him if and when he chose to call it a day. Then came his party’s loss to Allen Chastanet—11-7. No need to wade again in the swamp that was the political scene between 2011 and 2016. Most readers will remember too well the period to require reminders. Suffice it to say the election further proved the Kenny magic of 1997 was no more. Even the presumed magician must’ve recognized the truth. Shortly after his party’s loss in 2016 Kenny Anthony stepped down from the party leadership, as he should’ve several years earlier in favor of Mario Michel. With Michel having left the building to return to his law career, and with Pierre being the party’s first deputy, he was elected leader without opposition, as has been the custom since 1996. Would Pierre have caved in had, say, Ernest Hilaire or Alva Baptiste decided to seek election to the vacated position? Would Pierre have encouraged his colleagues to bring it on? Or would he have meekly stepped aside rather than risk humiliation? Pierre alone knows. But then, how many times has Pierre answered important questions with: “I dunno, I dunno, I dunno!” Indeed, not knowing what he is expected to know seems not to concern him. Or it may be it provides refuge. Asked by a reporter at a 2019 party press conference if he intended to investigate the mysteries of Grynberg should he find himself prime minister following the next general elections, his response was unambiguous: There will be no such investigation under his administration. If his reaction was unsettling, it also was self-serving: Any such probe would bring into sharp focus the inconvenient fact that Pierre and his Cabinet colleagues knew absolutely

nothing of the Grynberg oil deal of 2000 until nine years after it had been struck, signed by the prime minister and the notorious American oilman. More of that in due course! It remains now to offer congratulations to the perennial follower on his recent demonstration of leadership courage. While his party adheres to the notion of political opposition as war— and opponents as enemies to be destroyed—Philip J. Pierre has recently been permitting us glimpses of the MLK in his soul. Via Facebook, he has urged party supporters to lay down their arms and instead engage their minds. “While I encourage you to express your political views via this forum,” he wrote, “I wish to inform everyone to make their points without expletives or distasteful comments. I know many of you are disgruntled with the Allen Chastanet-led government but I am asking you to desist from using abusive and threatening language. No matter one’s political affiliation, at the end of the day we are all Saint Lucians.” That’s a long way from the usual racist slurs normally hurled by the prime minister’s detractors; a far distance from threats against Allen Chastanet and his family. If Pierre’s words mean anything to the party he now leads, the rest of Saint Lucia may in consequence have good reason to look forward to an incident-free general election after all, without threats, without violence, at a time when it seems too many are determined to demonstrate how angry they can get, with or without cause. (Hopefully the mercenaries referenced by Pierre’s deputy at the time of the recent Dominica elections have returned to base with no return tickets!) In his circumstances, when it seems so many around him are losing their heads and blaming their problems on everyone else, what a relief that Philip J. Pierre seems to have discovered the courage to trust himself and keep his head, to bastardize Rudyard Kipling. We can think of no better reason for declaring the leader of the House opposition STAR Person of the Year!

14 LOCAL

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Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club

We are an international company seeking highly-motivated individuals who would like to be part of a large-scale landmark development in Saint Lucia. In line with our expansion programme, we are seeking responsible and dynamic candidates to join us as:

1. Event Coordinator (Full-time, Part-time/Temp) 2. Graphics Designer (Full-time) 3. Bartenders (Part-time/Temp) 4. Cleaners (Temp) 5. Safety Officer (Full-time) 6. Media Manager (Full-time, preferably with knowledge of thoroughbred racing) 7. Contract Manager (Full-time, preferably with legal background) 8. Accounts Executive (Full-time) Applicants are required to submit their resume complete with details of academic qualification, work experience, present and expected salaries, contact number and email address not later than 31st January 2020 to: recruitsl@desertstargroup.com All applications will be treated in strict confidence. Only short-listed candidates will be considered for an interview.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority invites applicants for the position of Human Resource Officer in the Human Resource/Administration Department. The position reports to the Chief Corporate Officer. The incumbent will provide assistance in maintaining personnel records, employee health, welfare and other benefit plans. The role will also provide support to employees with all HR related enquiries while conforming to the company policies and Labor Laws. The specific duties for this position are outlined below: KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Maintain physical and digital personnel records including but not limited to employment contracts, vacation, TOIL (Time off in Lieu) Days and Absentee days (sick, personal etc.) Update internal databases with new hire information and coordination of orientations for new hires. Prepare HR documents such as employment contracts and new hire guides. Under the supervision of Head of Department, create and distribute guidelines and FAQ’s about company policies. Assist Accounts Department by providing relevant employee information (e.g. bank accounts, leaves of absence and work schedules). Publish and remove job or consultancy ads as well as schedule job interviews and contact candidates as needed. Under the supervision of Head of Department, prepare reports and presentations on HR related metrics i.e. KPI’s, Performance Evaluation scores, Merit Scheme. Assist with the development of training and on-boarding material and activities both internally and externally. Liaise and respond to employees regarding benefits e.g. TOIL and Vacation Days eligibility. Promotes workplace safety and ensures compliance with the organizations safety policies and rules and with national laws and regulations. Coordination and issuance of staff uniforms; Coordination of staff events/activities. Assist with Administrative duties to include provisioning of office supplies and maintenance of stationery inventory. To generally assist in the work of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and undertake other duties which may be required from time to time as assigned by your Head of Department or CEO.

Qualifications/Experience: • Diploma or Associate Degree in HR, Business Administration or related discipline • Experience with HR software • Computer Literacy – MS Office • Experience compiling HR Metrics and data entry/management Skills/Abilities: • Proven work experience as an HR Administrator/Assistant or relevant role. • Knowledge of Saint Lucia Labor Code • Strong Organization skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize workload • Demonstrated relationship building and interpersonal skills. APPLICATIONS ARE INVITED FROM SUITABLE QUALIFIED CANDIDATES BY SUBMITTING YOUR RESUME WITH AT LEAST TWO REFERENCES ADDRESSED TO CHIEF CORPORATE OFFICER SAINT LUCIA TOURISM AUTHORITY, P.O. BOX 221, CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA AND SUBMITTED VIA EMAIL AT CHIEFCORPORATEOFFICER@STLUCIA.ORG BY 20TH JANUARY 2020.

JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

Outgoing director says work of Trust not based on commercial considerations

hould Pigeon Island be transformed into a version of Cuba's Tropicana? Prime Minister Allen Chastanet believes so, stating that the venue could host evening shows and benefit greatly from tourism. Addressing his disapproval of Jeannine Compton-Antoine as Trust director last month, the prime minister said he felt a new director should be commercially minded, enough to recognize the need to marry conservation and development. He lamented that over the past 25 years, the Tourist Board had spent in excess of $20 million assembling and breaking down stages at Pigeon Island and questioned whether or not the money wouldn’t have been better spent on the construction of a theatre that would allow the Trust to host shows and raise revenue. The prime minister insists that the Trust has sufficient assets to render it at least close to selfsustaining. At a January 9 press conference, retiring Trust director Bishnu Tulsie revisited the 1972 creation of the causeway. At that time, Tulsie said, there was a lot of pressure to develop Pigeon Island and construct buildings on the site. Then premier Sir John Compton realized that unless something was done Pigeon Island would be lost. "So it goes way back that Pigeon Island was viewed as, and is still viewed as, a place of history and memory, and one that should be preserved for that purpose," Tulsie said. The setting up of condominiums —adding to the wall and gate—is not the right move,

Outgoing Trust director Bishnu Tulsie recently reminded reporters that the organisation was made to conserve and preserve and that such work is “not based on commercial considerations”.

he opined. "We understand the prime minister's point about raising revenue but we must balance that with impact," said the director. "We had 38 events at Pigeon Island last year. On occasion we had to cordon off a certain part of the lawn because of the extent of the impact. So we've got to approach this in a way that is sensible. We should never lose sight of the fact that Pigeon Island is part of our history and should be accessible to everyone. We will have to continue to disagree with the prime minister on that one because, at the end of the day, we were created to conserve and preserve." Council Chair Allison King announced that the Trust has conceptualized a number of ideas that could potentially generate revenue. They were submitted before the last budget, King said,

but there was no response. They have therefore been re-submitted for the upcoming financial year. King said that the Trust agrees with the prime minister's suggestion of a permanent stage, but would want it to be sympathetic to the environment and not be intrusive. A design proposal has also been submitted. As to whether the Trust should be dependent on state funding, Tulsie said that, based on research, the SLNT is the only Trust in the world that does not receive support from the government where it is located. Said Tulsie: "Saint Lucia is first in many things; this is another one we're first in. Our work is not based on commercial considerations; it's based on conservation considerations but we understand the need to generate revenue based on what we do." --JSA

Free High Quality Wheelchairs, Walkers and Crutches

f you, or anyone you know, needs a brand new wheelchair, walker or crutches, please call the National Council Of And For Persons With Disabilities Inc (NCPD) promptly for an appointment. Persons must have a disability in order to qualify, must be in a position to be present for a twenty-minute assessment and fitting at the clinic venue, and must be above the age of 14. Also, in order to qualify for a wheelchair, persons must be able to sit upright unassisted and free of pressure sores. Please contact NCPD’s head office on 453-1539/ 716-3214 if you are in the northern half of the island or 454-3721/716-3415 if you are in the southern half. You can also message via Facebook at Ncpd Saint Lucia in order to set an appointment close to your location.

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LOCAL 15

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JANUARY 18, 2020

Was Kenny Anthony Always Opposed to the Chastanets?

ardly had the last word of Prime Minister Allen Chastanet’s New Year’s speech been spoken, than a typically unimaginative video appeared on social media, suggesting the prime minister had put the brakes on further work on the uncompleted St Jude, in the best interests of his father Sir Michael.

Asked to comment this week, Sir Michael’s reaction was more of sadness than anything else. “I’ve always campaigned for a big medical university in Saint Lucia,” he said. “When I was chairman of Invest Saint Lucia and when I held that position at the NEC, during the period 2002 and 2006. Dr. Kenny Anthony was then the country’s prime minister. “With Dr. Anthony’s enthusiastic encouragement,

I consulted with the architect Neville Skeete about a medical university on the land between St Jude Hospital and the brewery. We also held negotiations with Ross University, then based in Dominica, and with St. Georges University in connection with a start-up operation. In all fairness to Kenny Anthony he was all for it and gave us full authority to go ahead.” Chastanet revealed that a

significant portion of Grenada’s GDP is associated with its medical school, “which I wanted to see happen here in Saint Lucia, regardless of which party is in office”. He recalled that although he had worked long and hard with Sir John, it was Dr. Anthony who had rewarded him with the OBE, not Compton. As for the propaganda video, Sir Michael said, “All this nonsense including threats to my family proves yet

again that the Labour Party is concerned more with power than with Saint Lucia’s development. They help create the worst images of Saint Lucia and Saint Lucians generally. How can a prime minister say publicly that an election is between his party and a family? This sort of thing disgusts most Saint Lucians. After all, who knows which family will next be targeted for destruction?” --DN

GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA SETTLEMENT UPGRADING PROJECT CONSTRUCTION OF RESIDENTIAL ACCESSES, DRAINS AND FOOTPATHS INVITATION FOR BIDS The Government of Saint Lucia (GOSL) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to USD6,233,000.00 towards the cost of the Settlement Upgrading 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.

Sir Michael Chastanet is at a loss as to what transpired that turned him from being a citizen worthy of the highest distinction to a target for destruction by a political party.

IN HONOUR OF SIR DEREK WALCOTT’S BIRTHDAY

his Thursday, January 23, Sir Derek Walcott would have been 90 years old. To commemorate the occasion, Orlando’s in Rodney Bay has devised a five-course dinner that will be served to the accompaniment of live music plus readings of the Nobel laureate’s poetry. With an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, the menu includes ‘Derek Walcott Fish Cakes’ created by award-winning Chef Orlando Satchell specifically for Sir Derek; it was one of his favourite dishes. For more information and to reserve a table, telephone 450-7544 or 489-6211.

The Project is being implemented by the Ministry of Economic Development, Housing, Urban Renewal, Transport and Civil Aviation Programme through the Regularisation of Unplanned Settlements (PROUD) within the Department of Housing, Urban Renewal and Telecommunications. The PROUD has contracted a Consultant who will assist PROUD with delivering the Project. The Consultants have prepared designs and contract documentation and will assist in tender administration and evaluation and supervise Project Activities. The PROUD now invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for Construction of Residential Accesses, Drains at Bexon Heights, Contract No. /SUP 53/SFR – OR – STL (P2) Consideration will be limited to firms or joint ventures of firms, which are legally incorporated or otherwise, organized in, and have their principal place of business in an eligible country and are either; (a) more than 50% beneficially owned by a citizen or citizens and/ or a bona fide resident or residents of an eligible country, or by a body corporate or bodies corporate meeting these requirements; or (b) owned or controlled by the Government of an eligible country provided that it is legally and financially autonomous and operated under the commercial law of an eligible country and otherwise meets the eligibility requirements of the CDB Guidelines for Procurement (2006). Eligible countries are member countries of CDB. Eligible bidders will be required to submit full qualification information with their bids establishing their eligibility to bid and qualification to perform the contract if the bid is accepted. Tender and qualification information are to be submitted in the English Language on the prescribed forms inserted in the Bid Documents. Submissions that do not provide the information required, or do not demonstrate the prospective contractor’s ability to perform satisfactorily, will not qualify and will not be considered for further evaluation. Qualification requirements include, inter alia: 1. an average annual turnover (defined as certified payments received for works in progress or completed) within the last six (6) years of XCD3,500,000.00 (USD1,298,750.00) or equivalent; 2.

a demonstrable cash flow (including access to credit) of XCD550,000.00 (USD204,090.00) or equivalent; and

experience as prime contractor in the construction of at least two (2) assignments of a nature, scope and complexity comparable to the proposed works within the last six (6) years (to comply with this requirement, works quoted should be at least 80 percent complete).

Bidding Documents may be obtained by eligible bidders from the address below for a non-refundable fee of XCD300.00. The Project Coordinator Department of Housing, Urban Renewal and Telecommunications 7th Floor Conway Business Centre Cnr. John Compton Highway & Jn. Baptiste Street Castries ST. LUCIA, W.I Telephone: 1-758 468-2600/2609 Facsimile number: 1-758 452-1838 Email: cuthbert.mcdiarmed@govt.lc Requests may be made by written application including email. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Construction of Residential Accesses, Drains at Bexon Heights, Contract No. /SUP 53/SFR – OR – STL (P2)”, along with the name, address and contact information of the bidder for which Bidding Documents are being requested. Payment should be by wire transfer, bank draft or bank guaranteed cheque made payable to Accountant General. Information to pay by wire transfer can be obtained from the address above. Applicants who request that documents be forwarded to them must submit an account number from a local courier agent that accepts freight collect charges. Documents will be promptly dispatched, but under no circumstance will PROUD or their authorised agent be held responsible for late delivery or loss of the documents so transmitted. Submissions in sealed envelopes clearly marked “Bid for the Settlement Upgrading Project (ICB) – Construction of Residential Accesses, Drains at Bexon Heights, Contract No. /SUP 53/SFR – OR – STL (P2)” must be received at the address below no later than 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2020. Bid opening will take place at 10:00 am on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at the address below in the presence of bidders representatives who choose to attend. The Chairperson Central Tender’s Board Department of Finance, Economic Affairs and Social Security Financial Administrative Centre Point Seraphine Castries ST. LUCIA, W.I All bids must be accompanied by a Bid-Securing Declaration. The PROUD reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, and to terminate the process and reject all bids, at any time prior to award of contract, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected prospective bidder(s) or any obligation to inform the affected prospective bidder(s) of the grounds for the PROUD action. The PROUD will not defray any costs incurred by any bidder in the preparation of bids.

16 LOCAL

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JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

Bill Mortley Photography Named Winner in 2020 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards!

ill Mortley Photography was announced a winner of the 2020 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards®, an accolade representing the top wedding professionals across the board in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism reviewed by couples on WeddingWire. A leader in the global wedding planning industry, WeddingWire continues its celebration of local wedding vendors with the announcement of its twelfth annual WeddingWire Couples’

Choice Awards winners. To determine these distinguished wedding professionals, WeddingWire analyzed reviews across more than 20 service categories, from venues and caterers to florists and photographers to find the most highly rated vendors of the year. These winners exhibit superior professionalism, responsiveness, service and quality when interacting with the millions of consumers who turn to WeddingWire to help ease their wedding planning process each month.

Wedding professionals who win WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards® are members of WeddingPro, the leading B2B wedding brand. As the largest marketplace and community for wedding professionals, WeddingPro connects businesses with more than 13 million visitors per month who are planning weddings on WeddingWire and The Knot, as well as with hundreds of thousands of pros in the industry. Through its online marketplaces, educational programmes and community-

Photographer extraordinaire Bill Mortley believes “great wedding photography is about capturing the moment”.

building events, WeddingPro is dedicated to helping wedding professionals grow their business by building relationships with couples and pros. Bill Mortley is honoured to be one of the top wedding businesses in Saint Lucia. For more information about him and the WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards®, please visit www.weddingwire.com.

Sol Announces new Alliance with Mobil Lubricants

he Sol Group (Sol), the region’s leading provider of reliable, premier energy solutions, has been officially appointed as an authorised ExxonMobil Distributor for Mobil lubricants in 12 of its 22 Sol markets. These markets are Anguilla, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and St. Maarten. “We are pleased to confirm that in line with our business strategy, Sol has entered into a Lubricants Distribution Agreement with ExxonMobil for the sale and distribution of Mobil lubricants for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and industrial applications,” stated Juan Veras, Sol Group's Lubricants Manager. “The opportunity to expand our already strong and successful alliance with ExxonMobil to our lubricants segment is truly exciting and we are confident of the value that this will bring to our customers’ businesses.” Mobil lubricants will be replacing Shell lubricants as the primary lubricants distributed by Sol in these 12 markets. “Our customers can be assured of a transparent and flawless transition to Mobil products, as our supply planning, production, logistics, sales, marketing and customers service teams have been working together, for months now, to ensure timely product availability,” Veras stated.

THE STAR JANUARY 18, 2020

REGIONAL

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Chastanet welcomes appointment of new LIAT Chairman

ast year, Antigua’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne made a clarion call to regional colleagues to invest in the ever cash-strapped airline LIAT. The governments of Grenada and St. Kitts and Nevis both responded favourably, each committing to provide EC$1 million. In an interview with the STAR on March 13, 2019, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet said his government would not consider investing in LIAT unless there were significant changes in the airline’s operation. He referenced a Caribbean Development Bank study that suggested three options: restructure the

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet is confident that the appointment of Owen Arthur bodes well for the struggling airline.

entity; privatize; or shutdown. If Saint Lucia were to buy

shares, Chastanet said, the shares would need to be in an

Labour ain’t easy to beat – Gonsalves

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said that he will announce the date of the election when the time is right.

undreds of Unity Labour Party (ULP) supporters gathered at the Campden Park Secondary School last Sunday for the party’s 24th national convention. Addressing supporters, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said coming into 2020, it must be noted that the ULP is the most successful political party in the region and the country. “For five elections we have won the majority support and for four elections we have won the majority of seats and no party in St Vincent and the Grenadines has that record,” the PM told party supporters. He said that in March, the ULP will celebrate 19 consecutive years in office and no political party in the country or the hemisphere can boast of this. Prior to the PM taking the podium, a clip with the voice of New Democratic Party (NDP) politician and parliamentary representative for Central Kingstown vice-president St Clair Leacock was played in which Leacock tells persons not to underestimate Dr Gonsalves. “So St Clair Leacock is right, Labour ain’t easy to beat and our roots are deep, our connections with each other are well founded, very strong and we have the leadership, we have the policies and the

programmes, we have the candidates . . . ” Gonsalves told supporters. He added that the ULP has limitations, but its members work hard and smart and overwhelmingly in the interests of the people of the country. The PM also boasted that in its 19 years in office, the ULP has never had a reason to dismiss any member of Cabinet or has a member ever resigned. “Go through every other country and you don’t find that. So, when you come to us, you come to us with unity and stability and a focus, sense of purpose,” the PM said. He added that the government has made huge strides in education, health care, foreign policy, trade and commerce, among many other areas and continues to do so. “There is far less poverty, indigence and undernourishment . . . there is far better education and training in every respect, there is far better delivery of health services in every respect. “There is far better housing for everyone, there is far better social security at the National Insurance Services and at public assistance than ever before, there are far more and better sporting facilities, far more and better cultural facilities,” stressed Dr. Gonsalves. He added also that huge strides have been made in improving the road networks including bridges, while there have been improvements in air and sea access and immigration issues. “The economy is larger; the country is wealthier today than in 2001. We have a stable monetary system, we have a stable financial system and we have low inflation, far better and deeper regional integration and foreign policy and diplomatic representation,” said Gonsalves. “From today we get the signals as to what will happen with God’s grace during the rest of this year, until after prayerful consideration, and I ask the question, speak Lord your servant Ralph is listening, and the date is given unto me, and the bell is rang, and we will be going for a fifth term and we will be winning again for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Gonsalves said. --Searchlight

entity free to make whatever commercial decisions must be made. “I don’t mind being a shareholder, going to my annual shareholder meeting, and if in fact the management are not doing a good job then you fire management. I don’t believe governments themselves should be involved in the day-to-day operations of the airline. That’s certainly not what appears to be in practice right now and so certainly Saint Lucia would not be interested in taking shares in LIAT as currently constructed.”

Chastanet added that LIAT’s board must comprise people “that understand how to run an airline business”. On January 9, LIAT announced the appointment of a board of directors headed by former Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur, currently serving as a professor at the University of the West Indies. LIAT highlighted that the new board brings over 100 years of combined aviation experience. Said LIAT in a statement: “The new chairman has been tasked by the new board to undertake a special assignment to meet with regional prime ministers to discuss sustainability of the airline. This assignment will be supported by other directors and the management team of the airline.” Last December, the company announced that Dr. Jean Holder—who served as its director and chairman for 16 years —had retired. On Monday Prime Minister Allen Chastanet strongly supported the appointment of Arthur— whom he considers “very capable”. But that didn’t mean a change of attitude on the

part of Saint Lucia’s prime minister. At any rate, not until Arthur has made necessary changes. Chastanet seemed to be anticipating structural changes to LIAT. “We have to be satisfied that the tough decisions that have to be made in LIAT are going to be made,” said Chastanet. “There are a lot of adjustments and structural changes that have to take place and I think that it’s a good signal in having former prime minister Arthur there, because he is a no nonsense person and he has very good commercial sense as well. If there’s any person that could potentially break this deadlock, I think he’s that person. Saint Lucia is very hopeful that something can come of this new decision.” In a bid to recapitalize the airline, Prime Minister Gaston Browne secured a US $15.8 million loan from Venezuelan bank, Banco del ALBA last November. The Antigua government, which holds 34% shares in the airline, is also negotiating to purchase the majority of Barbados’ 49% share ownership. --Joshua St. Aimee

INTERNATIONAL

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NOTICE NOTICE

Invest Saint Lucia invites tenders for:

JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

President Tsai wins second term with huge victory

Invest Saint Lucia invites tenders for:

Management of nsurance Coverage Management of PPortfolio ortfolio oof f IInsurance Coverage Invest Saint Saint Lucia invites insurance irms to to tender he management Invest Lucia invites insurance bbrokerage rokerage ffirms tender for ftor he tm anagement of i ts p ortfolio o f i nsurances. T he i nformation p ackages a re a vailable a t t he gency’s of its portfolio of insurances. The information packages are available at athe agency’s st 1st Floor, Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries. Head O ffice, Head Office, 1 Floor, Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries. A non-‐ refundable EC $300.00 application processing fee applies. The deadline for

A non-‐ refundable EC $300.00 application processing fee applies. The deadline for submission of tenders is 4:00 p.m. Thursday, February 6th, 2020. submission of tenders is 4:00 p.m. Thursday, February 6th, 2020. Tenders must be submitted in sealed envelope and clearly marked:

Tenders must be submitted in sealed envelope and clearly marked:

Tenders for Management of Insurance Services

Tenders for anagement of &I nsurance Services Senior MM anager – Finance Administration Invest Saint Lucia Senior Manager – Finance & Administration First Floor, Heraldine Building, Invest Saint RLock ucia P.O. Box 495

First Floor, Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries.

P.O. Box 495

Waterfront, Castries. Invest Saint Lucia is under no obligation to accept the lowest bid.

Invest Saint Lucia is under no obligation to accept the lowest bid.

Homestay Family Coordinator (HFC) Needed

Peace Corps intends to offer a firm-fixed price contract to a Homestay Family Coordinator (HFC) from St Lucia. The Homestay Family Coordinator (HFC) is responsible for the general community outreach, the recruitment, interviewing, screening, evaluation and selection of families to host approximately 45 Trainees for at least 4-6 weeks from June to August 2020, in the community of Babonneau. Application: If you wish to apply for this tender, please write lc-hr@peacecorps.gov for a copy of the bidding documents/ Request for Quotation (RFQ). Interested vendors should submit a quote for services as described in the RFQ via email by 4:00 pm on January 24, 2020 with the Subject Line: Peace Corps Eastern Caribbean, St Lucia: Homestay Family Coordinator to the following address: lc-hr@peacecorps.gov Questions about this RFQ should be sent to Leonette Jn Pierre at ljnpierre@peacecorps.gov. Offers received after the closing date will not be accepted.

Victorious once more! President Tsai Ing-wen (right) and her running mate Lai Ching-te.

resident Tsai Ing-wen has been elected to a second four-year term after defeating her main competitor, Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu of the Kuomintang (KMT), by a wide margin. Tsai of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) received 8.17 million votes, or 57.13 percent of the total valid ballots cast, while Han garnered 5.52 million votes, or 38.61 percent. The third candidate, James Soong of the People First Party (PFP), garnered 608,590 votes, or 4.26 percent, according to vote tallies from the Central Election Commission. Voter turnout was 74.9 percent. Tsai's vote total was the highest ever recorded for any candidate in a presidential election in Taiwan, breaking the previous high of 7.66 million votes received by Ma Ying-jeou in the 2008 election. At an international conference following the victory, Tsai described the election as demonstrating the resolve of Taiwan's people in standing up to China's threat. "I also hope that the Beijing authorities understand that democratic Taiwan and our democratically-elected government will not concede to threats and intimidation. The results of this election carry an added significance

because they have shown that when our sovereignty and democracy are threatened, the Taiwanese people will shout our determination even more loudly back," she said. Tsai emphasized that in the face of China's diplomatic pressure, military threats and intention to "unilaterally change the cross-Taiwan Strait status quo," her commitment to peaceful, stable crossstrait relations remained unchanged. "Today, I want to once again call upon the Beijing authorities to remind them that peace, parity, democracy and dialogue are the key to positive cross-strait interactions and long-term stable development," she said. "I also hope that the Beijing authorities understand that democratic Taiwan and our democratically-elected government will not concede to threats and intimidation." The results were consistent with final opinion polls released 10 days before the election that had Tsai winning by a double-digit margin, often above 20 percentage points. Tsai also came close to repeating her 25-point victory in 2016, in which she grabbed 56.12 percent of the vote, against 31.04 percent for Eric Chu of the KMT and 12.83 percent for Soong. Her triumph likely

means a continued standoff between Taiwan and China, which has marked her first term, and a continued emphasis on relations with the United States and other major democracies to help resist China's efforts to keep Taiwan out of the international community. Domestically, she should be able to continue to push through legislation she wants because her DPP held its majority in the Legislative Yuan. The victory was a remarkable rebound for a candidacy that pundits thought was in trouble after a major defeat for Tsai and her party in nationwide elections for local offices in November 2018. Starting in January 2019, however, public support for Tsai rebounded after she embarked on an aggressive year-long strategy to play the sovereignty card by pledging to defend Taiwan's sovereignty and democratic system against China's "one country, two systems" formula. The Hong Kong protests also seemed to galvanize a big advantage for Tsai among young voters, who are more likely to favor Taiwan independence and a hard line politically against China. --Focus Taiwan

THE STAR

JANUARY 18, 2020

HEALTH

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THE FUNNIES!

KIM’S KORNER

Making a Splash!

Whether in Rodney Bay or in the channel between Saint Lucia and Martinique, swimming is one of the most beneficial and holistic exercises for the body.

S The Art of Teaching Yoga - Part VII

iscussion of pranayama will be the last of the articles on The Art of Teaching Yoga. Prana is vital energy or life force and ayama is expansion or extension. It is the prolonging, expansion or extension and control of the breath. It is also the fourth limb of the eight limbs of the tree of yoga. Practising pranayama daily can create optimum health, add healthy years to one’s life, and bring energy to the body and clear thoughts to the mind. Pranayama and focusing on the breath creates better concentration and one pointed focus. A regular practice of pranayama not only supercharges the body but prepares the mind for deep meditation. In the Iyengar system of yoga the student practises the physical aspect of yoga for one to two years before beginning the practice of pranayama. The student must first strengthen the body before learning to control the breath. The intercostal muscles, which are located between each rib, must become strong and flexible so that they are able to assist with the breath. The diaphragm, located just below the

lungs, and the muscles of the abdominal wall are the primary muscle used for respiration. Most of us don’t breathe efficiently. The student must first become aware of, and learn, how they breathe normally in everyday life. To begin learning pranayama one must first learn to bring the breath to a nice, even, rhythmic balance. It takes focus and concentration to follow the breath. With most breathing in yoga we inhale and exhale through the nose. Many students find it difficult at first to actually focus on the breath and follow it for any period of time. It takes continual practice, but beginning with just 10 minutes per day can help to build the concentration needed to prolong and expand the breathing. The student learns that when they attempt to control the

breath, the mind wanders but, with practice, they learn to bring the mind back to watching the flow of the breath. When the basic breathing has been learned, we can begin to teach more controlled breathing such as Ujjayi which sounds like a restricted water hose. We then go on to Vilma— interrupted breathing, Bhramri which sounds like a bumble bee, Bhasteika (also called the bellows breath) and many more. We practise the physical aspect of yoga which is a path to take us on to pranayama and meditation. The breath is the only thing in life that we can’t live without. It’s the first thing that we do the moment that we are born and the last thing that we do before we depart. While we’re here we don’t do it very well. It is our greatest gift, it is our lifeline!

Jill Hagar is a certified instructor of Iyengar Yoga and a certified International Yoga Therapist. She holds regular Yoga classes at Harmony Suites in Rodney Bay. For more information about classes please contact Jill by phone or WhatsApp on (758) 718 1297 or by email on yogastlucia@gmail.com

wimming is a great way to keep fit and active for people of all ages, and living in the Caribbean we have unlimited access to nature’s very own swimming pool. The first man-made pools appeared in 1837. Swimming became an Olympic sport in 1896 but only for men; women swimmers did not appear at the Olympics until 1912. Whether for fun or competitively, swimming is a great low-impact workout, with the buoyancy of the water supporting up to 90% of the body weight, making it perfect for those who are recovering from injury or suffering from joint pain. Swimming also has many other benefits: • Improves weight loss: did you know 30 minutes of vigorous swimming can burn up to 25% more calories than 30 minutes of walking, jogging or cycling? • Improves cardiovascular fitness: swimming is an aerobic exercise and therefore strengthens your heart as well as your muscles, even if you choose a slow, steady rhythm. However, the faster you go, the greater the improvements, and, unlike land-based exercises, you won’t sweat; the water keeps your body cool. Cardiovascular exercise is known to reduce the risk of heart disease and many other diseases, and to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. • Muscle strength: water is 12 times denser than air, so moving yourself through water becomes a resistance exercise, building muscle tone and strength but with the added benefit of less stress on the joints and no heavy equipment. • Flexibility: no matter which stroke you choose, you will be stretching your limbs as you push yourself through the water. Swimming also helps maintain the flexibility of the

spine as you rotate your head and body as you glide through the water. It may not be as effective as yoga but the motion of swimming allows you to stretch as you lengthen your muscles. • Improves lung function: unlike most other sports and activities where you breathe in dry air in shallow intakes with a forceful exhalation, swimming allows you to breathe in moist air and encourages you to breathe in deeply with a slow, steady breath out. This makes it an ideal activity for people who suffer from asthma. And did you know this pattern of breathing is also known to promote calmness? • Total body workout: unlike activities such as running and cycling, which mainly use the legs, swimming uses both the upper and lower body at the same time; as your legs kick, your arms pull you through the water. • Slows down ageing: Swimming in salt water helps the skin to retain moisture and detoxify, which promotes new cell growth. • It’s inexpensive and needs little or no equipment. Swimming works all the major muscles of the body: the upper limbs, lower limbs and the core, but not all strokes are even. Different strokes target some muscles more than others. So, what’s your style?

There are four main swimming styles: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly stroke. Freestyle, although not technically a stroke, is the most popular and it is commonly used to describe what most of us know as the front crawl. The name change occurred due to the popularity of the front crawl in ‘freestyle’ competitions. Front crawl is, of course, the fastest stroke and therefore the preferred choice of many. Along with backstroke, freestyle requires the arms to move in an alternate pattern to pull you through the water, whilst the legs kick behind you. Backstroke works in reverse. Breaststroke is the most popular stroke but also the slowest of the four. It tends to be the first stroke that most people learn as the head stays above the water, making breathing easier. Butterfly stroke is the second fastest stroke but difficult to master. It requires the arms to lift out of the water as both legs kick out like a mermaid. Swimming is also known to improve brain function and enhance mental health and well-being. So, if you have not already added swimming to your exercise routine, whether in the sea or in a pool, now is the time to consider this all-round, total body workout for a fitter, happier you. 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

20 SPORTS

JANUARY 18, 2020 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

Saint Lucia names Goodwill and Brand Ambassadors

Jermain Defoe

our athletes here and abroad are among twelve Saint Lucians that the Government of Saint Lucia has appointed as Goodwill Ambassadors, with others announced as Brand Ambassadors. Speaking on behalf of the government during a press briefing on Monday, Minister for Culture and Creative Industries, Senator Fortuna Belrose said that Cabinet had ratified the proposal which

came out of the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) last year. A committee was appointed to establish the terms and references for the programme which is now finalized. “The Saint Lucia Goodwill Ambassadors programme is proposed as a tool to actualize the national cultural policy in a number of key areas,” Minister Belrose stated. “They are citizens of Saint Lucia who have achieved international

Daren Sammy

Levern Spncer

acclaim. The overall objective of the programme is to serve as a catalyst for socioeconomic transformation and the development of human capital in all sectors related to the creative arts and the industries, sports, visual arts, gastronomy and music.” The ambassadors are expected to represent Saint Lucia locally, regionally and internationally by leveraging their profile and celebrity status to tap into access for

growth and to forge strategic partnership between the CDF and other related agencies. The four Goodwill Ambassadors in the sporting arena are: Multi Sportswoman of the Year and Olympian, Levern Spencer (high jumper); Jermain Colin Defoe (English professional football player); Leslie Ferdinand (former English footballer); and Daren Julius Garvey Sammy, (former West Indies Cricket Captain). The other eight Goodwill

Leslie Ferdinand

Ambassadors are: Ronald “Boo” Hinkson (music); Gordon “Commissioner” Williams (music); Taj Weekes (music); Jallim Eudovic (arts); Nina Compton (chef/culinary); Joseph Marcell (theatre and film); David Williams (academia); and Ken Chitolie (philanthropy). The Brand Ambassadors are: Teddyson John (music); Ricky-“T” Joseph (music); Taj Weekes (music); Arthur Allain (music); Lashley

“Motto” Winter (music); Johnnick “Freezy” Leo (music); and Johanan Dujon (entrepreneurship). The title of ‘Your Excellency’ will be conferred on the Goodwill Ambassadors, as well as the Saint Lucia Medal of Merit Gold. They will also be issued with an official or diplomatic passport as awarded by Cabinet and a decorated red “laissezpasser” signed by the Governor General.

Update on annual National Sports Awards

Anderson’s Century seals West Indies win over Scotland P

evlon Anderson smashed a thrilling ton as West Indies condemned Scotland to a 126-run defeat in their final warm-up fixture in Irene, Pretoria, South Africa on Wednesday. Anderson, the talented young batsman from Guyana, was 101 not out in a swashbuckling knock that came off 72 balls, with the Windies posting 322 for six from their 50 overs. He was ably supported by Kimani Melius (67) and Leonardo Julien (65) for the mammoth total. The Windies innings contained two strong stands as Melius and Julien combined for a century for the second wicket, with Anderson dominating the fifth-wicket partnership batting alongside Daniel Beckford (27). Scotland, in response, were bowled out for 196 with Uzzair Shah (49) and Ben Davidson (34) top scoring.

Kevlon Anderson led West Indies to victory over Scotland.

They were never able to put the pressure on in a chase where they needed to score at nearly seven runs to an over in order to reach the target.

West Indies Under-19 Captain Kimani Melius had a knock of 67 against Scotland.

Joshua James was the pick of the bowlers for the islanders with his three for 22 from six overs. The trio of Matthew Patrick, Ashmead Nedd and Avinash

Mahabirsingh provided great support with two wickets each. Windies take on Australia in their Group B tournament opener today in Kimberley.

lans are continuing for the hosting of the 40th annual National Sports Awards to be held on Saturday February 15, 2020. Members of the Planning Committee held another meeting at the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports on Monday January 13, to further arrangements for the staging of the Awards at a new venue: The Tent at Reduit. Members looked at various logistical challenges that will be presented with the advent of this new venue, but are optimistic of executing another successful Awards Ceremony to recognize the island’s top sporting personalities for 2019. All necessary amenities were taken into account and a concept is being finalized for the evening’s decor. National Associations were given a strict December 27, 2019 deadline to submit nominations for their respective disciplines. Among those meeting the deadline date were the Saint Lucia

Rugby Football Union, Saint Lucia Table Tennis Association, Saint Lucia Athletics Association, Saint Lucia Cricket Association, Saint Lucia Aquatics Federation, Saint Lucia Tennis Association, Saint Lucia Special Olympics, Saint Lucia Basketball Federation, Saint Lucia Boxing Association, Saint Lucia Football Association, Saint Lucia Volleyball Association, Saint Lucia Golf Association, Karate-Do Federation Saint Lucia and Netball Saint Lucia. The most prestigious awards will again go to junior male and female sports personalities and Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year. There will also be special recognition awards, as has become customary over the years that the Awards have been held. A shortlist of the outstanding sports personalities is under consideration and should be known by the end of this week, according to Ministry officials.

THE STAR

OCTOBER 18, 2020

SPORTS

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Serena ends three-year title drought, gives winnings to bushfire appeal S

erena Williams ended a three-year title drought and donated her winner’s cheque to victims of the Australian bushfires in an emotional WTA Auckland Classic final on Sunday. Williams raised expectations for this month’s Australian Open, where she can equal Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles, with her 6-3, 6-4 victory—her first WTA trophy since she won in Melbourne in 2017. But the 38-year-old tempered celebrations as she donated her US$43,000 winner’s cheque to the Australian bushfire relief fund and described how the tragedy had affected her deeply. “I’ve been playing in Australia for over 20 years and it’s been really hard for me to watch all the news and everything that has been happening in Australia with all the fire and . . . animals and people that have lost their homes,” she said. “I decided at the beginning of the tournament . . I’d donate all my prize money for a great cause.”

It is Williams’ first title since 2017—and her first as a mother—since she won the Australian Open while pregnant. Her 73 WTA titles now stretch across four decades, after she won her first in 1999. The tournament top seed slipped 1-3 behind in the first set against the unseeded Pegula, a fellow American. But once she found her range there was never any doubt about the final result, which Williams greeted by raising her arms in triumph while her husband Alexis Ohanian and two-year-old daughter Olympia looked on. “It’s been a long time; I think you could see the relief on my face,” she said, adding she could feel her game sharpening up as she prepares to head to Melbourne. “It definitely feels good; it feels like i was definitely improving as the week went on, and obviously I needed to.” Pegula, who has only one title to her credit, had stunned former world number one Caroline Wozniacki—a close friend of Williams—in a three-

set semi-final, winning every game in the deciding set. The 25-year-old continued in the same fearless vein at the start of the final, seemingly untroubled by her heavily bandaged left thigh as she chased down everything Williams delivered and even broke Williams’ first serve. Pegula held her own serve and appeared set to break again when Williams, by this stage yelling with every point she won, fought back from 15-40 to hold her second service game on the fifth deuce. Williams eventually achieved a break of her own to level at 3-3, finding the power and precision that had deserted her until then. With her confidence boosted, Williams held to love in the next game, broke Pegula again and then served to clinch the first set. Pegula was down 0-40 at the start of the second set before rallying to hold serve, but the strain of facing the player who has dominated women’s tennis for two decades was showing. Williams broke on

Serena Williams won the recent WTA Auckland Classic. (Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images)

Pegula’s next service game and stayed in front until the end, to take the title and extinguish a sequence of five defeats in finals since her 2017 win in Melbourne.

Netball Umpiring Workshop

he St Lucia National Netball Association (SLNNA), in collaboration with the Caribbean Netball Association, is seeking to establish a pathway for the certification of umpires. At present there is a scarcity of certified umpires, particularly within the schools and at the community/grassroots level. This undertaking is part of the SLNNA strategic vision, which speaks to the certification of netball umpires engaged in officiating at the local level or in a school/club environment. The netball umpiring workshop is taking place this weekend, from Friday January 17 to Sunday 19, 2020. This primary target group is persons who need to know the up-to-date international rules of netball, as well as gain generic umpiring skills and the basic knowledge to undertake the umpiring of netball

Netball official Wayne Benti.

matches, in compliance with international standards. The umpiring workshop is being facilitated by IUA, Wayne Benti and a trainer/ tester from Barbados, Marlene Hall. All theoretical and practical sessions are being conducted at the Vigie Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Castries. All netball match officials/umpires and at least one representative

from each affiliate, are urged to avail themselves of this opportunity. This is the first step towards the establishment of a pathway for the certification of netball umpires, as well as ensuring that netball match officiating at all levels is compliant with INF rules. At the end of the workshop, a pathway for certification of individual umpires will be outlined.

Williams, whose last tournament was the US Open in September, was looking for as much game time as possible in Auckland, and an hour after winning the singles

crown she was back on court partnering Wozniacki in the doubles final. However, the pair were beaten 6-4, 6-4 by Americans Asia Muhammad and Taylor Townsend.

ST LUCIA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION NEWS

he Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) Inc held a second Technical Planning Meeting on Tuesday January 14, 2020 at its headquarters in La Clery, with the First and Second Division Clubs scheduled to participate in this year’s tournament. The meeting, which was well attended, commenced with the observance of a minute of silence on the passing of former football coach Cassie Boom. From there it was down to business as the meeting sought to address in depth the items on the agenda: structure of championship, pre-match management issues, officials on the substitute bench, match countdown, protocol, substitutes on the bench, pre-match warm-up, warm-up during the match and referees matters. It was agreed that registration for both Divisions

had to be completed online by January 17, 2020. The fixtures for the competition will then be circulated on Monday January 20, 2020. The rules governing both competitions will be made available by Friday January 24, with the commencement date for the First Division competition scheduled for Sunday January 26, with the Second Division slated nine days later. It is envisaged that matches in the First Division will be played on Wednesday and Saturdays while for the Second Division, Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays have been proposed; both aspects to be ratified. At the meeting, the decision was made that all the rules governing the competitions will be adhered to and, more importantly, the matches will commence at the scheduled time. Teams

are required to submit their match list for every game approximately four hours before the scheduled kick-off. This must be facilitated via email to the SLFA. The dress code will be in effect and enforced for every football competition and any breaches of this rule will be addressed by the appropriate sanctions, as outlined. The teams participating in the 2020 tournament are as follows. First Division: Big Players, El Ninos, GMC United, Knights FC, Monchy FC, Northern United, Ti Rocher FC, Uptown, VSADC and Platinum. Second Division: 1987 All Stars, B1 FC, Diamond Ballers, Flow Lancers, New Generations, RV Juniors, T Valley FC, Togetherness Youth, Victory Eagles and Bays. GMC United and Knights FC were promoted to the First Division following last year’s tournament.

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Bravo makes Impact on Return, but Windies lose to Ireland Dwayne Bravo made his presence felt in Wednesday’s T201 against Ireland.

Williams is First Female Third Umpire in a Men’s International

acqueline Williams of the West Indies became the first woman to officiate as the third umpire in a men’s international, when she took the field at the Grenada National Stadium on Wednesday, for the first of three Twenty20 Internationals against the visiting Ireland team. The 43-year-old from Jamaica, who will officiate in the position in all three matches of the series, continues the trend of women officials breaking barriers in the game, having already stood as an on-field umpire in men’s ODIs and T20Is.

Last month, India’s G S Lakshmi oversaw the third series of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 in the United Arab Emirates, becoming the first woman match referee in men’s ODIs. Earlier in May, she became the first woman to be appointed onto the ICC International Panel of Match Referees. In April last year, Australia’s Claire Polosak became the first female umpire to stand in a men’s ODI, in the ICC World Cricket League Division 2 match between Namibia and Oman in Windhoek, Namibia. Williams said: “This is

a matter of huge honour for me and I am really excited at the prospect of my role as TV umpire in a men’s international match. I have officiated as a third umpire in men’s matches before, but this is for the first time in an international and that, too, featuring the West Indies. "I am thankful to the International Cricket Council and Cricket West Indies for all the help and support over the years and wish that more women take up umpiring in the coming years. Umpiring is a challenging job but one from which I derive utmost satisfaction.”

wayne Bravo made a spectacular return to the international arena but his bowling heroics were not enough to save West Indies, as they fell to Ireland by just four runs in the first Sandals Resorts T20I on Wednesday afternoon at the Grenada National Stadium. The talismanic allrounder was superb at the “death” of the Irish innings as his last three overs went for just 10 runs and he captured two wickets. Overall, Bravo had figures of 2-28 off four overs, as the visitors amassed 208-7 off their 20 overs. Entering in the final over of the West Indies innings, Bravo came close to securing victory with the bat. He could have won it, but was caught a few feet inside the deep midwicket boundary, as he attempted a second six in the final over.

Earlier in the over he got off the mark with a massive maximum over long-on which left the equation at seven to win off four balls. Opener Evin Lewis continued his good form with 53 off 29 balls which included six fours and three sixes, while skipper Kieron Pollard smashed three sixes in 31 off 15 balls which kept the home side in the hunt. Commenting on his performance, Bravo said: “It was a good comeback for me. As I said before, it felt like I was making my debut again. I really enjoyed my time in the field; I got a lot of love from the fans here and I want to say a special thanks to them for that. Would have loved to get over the line today but, credit to Ireland; they played well and got the better of us. Overall, we did well; Evin Lewis and Lendl Simmons gave us a

good start then we got some good knocks in the middle. We move on to St Kitts now where we have to win both matches to take the series. I’m up for it.” Earlier in the day the Irish total was set up by a record opening stand of 154 between Paul Stirling (95) and Kevin O’Brien (48). Stirling smashed eight sixes off 47 balls, while O’Brien hit two sixes and four fours off 32 balls before they were parted. Bravo intervened to have O’Brien bowled with a clever change of pace in the 13th over, while Stirling was the first of two wickets for left-arm spinner Khary Pierre. The two teams are now in St Kitts for the conclusion of the Sandals Resorts T20I Series. The matches will be played under lights tonight and tomorrow night at Warner Park.

Veterans Football Plate Championship Quarter-finals

La Ressource Playing Field in Mabouya Valley is hosting the quarter-finals of the Plate Championship.

F Jaqueline Williams made her debut as third umpire on Wednesday at the Grenada National Stadium.

ollowing a short break due to the holiday season and the unavailability of the Philip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort, the Veterans in Sports Inc Football Tournament resumes this weekend at La Ressource Playing Field. The tournament should have proceeded this past weekend but work

needed to be done at the Philip Marcellin Grounds. Everything is in place though at La Ressource for what should be another highly entertaining weekend of football. This competition is now in a critical stage with the quarter-final round in the Plate Championship taking place this weekend.

Beginning today (Saturday) at 6:00 pm, Canaries Veterans go up against Labowi Connexions and at 8:00 pm the home team, Valley Legends, entertain Mon Repos Sharks. On Sunday at 5:00 pm, Choiseul Veterans face Vieux Fort North followed by Congorians vs Caricom Masters at 7:00 pm.

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DISCLAIMER FROM S.W.A.T. ST. LUCIA LIMITED TAKE NOTICE that the management of S.W.A.T. Limited wishes to inform the public that it is in no way affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the G.M. Security Services Limited or any of its subsidiaries or its affiliates. Mr. Stephen Martin and Ms. Kerdel Ettienne are no longer affiliated with S.W.A.T. Limited and are not authorized to transact business on behalf of S.W.A.T. Limited. ANY and all inquiries about S.W.A.T. Limited should be made by contacting our offices directly using the information provided below: S.W.A.T. Limited Hibiscus Crescent Sans Souci Castries, Saint Lucia Tel: (758) 453-0999 Email:swatltdstlucia@gradstt.com

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