I STAND BY MY WORD!

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2020

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‘World Class’ Shawn Contradicts Pierre

I STAND BY MY WORD! See Page 9

Operation Reconnect?

Left to right: MPs Shawn Edward, Philip J. Pierre and Kenny Anthony.

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THE SKI’S THE LIMIT E

arlier this week, out of two Caribbean countries came statements with more holes in them than Swiss cheese. The first, from Jamaicans.com, claims that “Jamaican Culture Is the Most Popular in the World”.

The second is from a Trinidad technocrat turned politician, deputy political leader of the Opposition United National Congress (UNC), Jearlean John. She told the people of Laventille, a tough town in North Trinidad which in 2019 had a murder rate amounting to six times the national rate in a country deemed the 12th most dangerous in the world, that if they vote out the incumbent government, in two years Laventille will become like Switzerland. In other words, as one of my friends quipped, "If you think this coming election is going to be full of empty promises, UNC nothing yet."

I love Jamaica and have been there many times over the past thirty years.

Globally, however, the most popular cultures, judged on a per capita basis (number of tourists to one resident) are Andorra, Macao and then two Caribbean countries, neither

of which is Jamaica—the British Virgin Islands followed by the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Other countries from the English-speaking Caribbean in the top 25 are St Maarten (10), the Cayman Islands (12), the US Virgin Islands (13), the Bahamas (16), Bermuda (17), and Antigua and Barbuda (23).

Barbados is 33 and Saint Lucia 34. In terms of the top ten countries with the greatest influence on world culture, Switzerland, beloved of Ms. John, is at number seven, and the top three are Italy, France and, surprisingly, the United States. I never expected this since I have always believed that the answer to the question, “What's the difference between America and yogurt?” is “If you leave yogurt alone for 200 years, it will develop a culture.”

At the recent CARIFESTA held in Trinidad, I heard Trinis boasting about how “we culture better than all the others” and perhaps, if a culture is something you can put on a stage and “wine” to, they might be right. But culture is much more than performance. It is the characteristics and knowledge of a particular group of people, encompassing language, religion, cuisine, social habits,

music and arts. It is their way of life. The mistake we tend to make, especially in the Caribbean, is to treat culture like economics and apply the same labels to cultures as we use for countries: “developed”, “developing” and “underdeveloped”. While all countries are definitely not equal in size, population or wealth, all cultures are equal, and no culture is better than any other. We have to take them as they are. What we in the Caribbean should do, especially in countries like Guyana and Trinidad which are deeply divided in race and politics, is not to further exploit our cultural and racial differences but build on our cultural diversity as the key to innovation and growth.

Jamaican and Barbadian culture rise above race and even class. You can’t be more Jamaican than Bob Marley, Bajan than The Merrymen or Saint Lucian than Rick Wayne.

This brings me to Laventille, Switzerland and Jearlean John. In cultural terms, Laventille is the home of the Desperadoes Steelband which won this year’s national Carnival Panorama competition.

Switzerland, while not the inventor, is known for its cuckoo

clocks. As actor Orson Wells said in the acclaimed film The Third Man, “In Italy, for thirty years under the Borgias, they had warfare, terror, murder, bloodshed; they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and the Renaissance. In Switzerland, they had brotherly love, 500 years of democracy and peace, and what did they produce? The cuckoo clock.”

It seems the Swiss now have another invention—a fan, who to most people, basing their view on Ms. John’s two-year promise or prediction, is more cuckoo than any clock the Swiss could produce. While the Swiss are famous for banking, I definitely would not bank on Laventille residents giving up their political party of choice for the past sixty-five years to become the Caribbean Switzerland. As unbelievable as it might seem to us, I bet they wouldn't trade their present situation for all the Lindt Chocolate in Switzerland.

In its “Top Ten Countries Impacting World Culture”, the online Global Trip, which rates Switzerland at number seven, says that the country tops global culture when it comes to prestige. In Trinidad, where 'Elite' is a brand of shirt and

EARLY GRADE TEACHERS IN OECS PRODUCE CULTURALLY RELEVANT BOOKS TO TEACH READING

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he USAID/OECS Early Learners Programme (ELP) has facilitated the training of primary school teachers in Bloom Software to enable the creation of customized content for their classrooms.

One of the challenges in the OECS is a lack of culturally relevant books for students and the Bloom software makes it easy to create simple, relatable books. The software is so user-friendly that primary school students are also being encouraged to create their own books to engender more reading throughout the OECS. Thus far a total of approximately 130 teachers have been trained across the OECS, with training still ongoing in Saint Lucia. These learning sessions are enabling teachers to create books with content that would facilitate learning in a more culturally relevant

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way. Teachers know their students and curriculum, and therefore have the opportunity to create tailor-made books that can address specific topics and meet the needs of their students.

Teachers with basic computer skills who participated in the sessions felt well-equipped and confident to go back to the schools and teach the students how to create and publish their own books.

The creation of books by students facilitates and enhances reading and writing skills. Further, when the students create content that they are interested in, they are keen to read and share their publications. This fuels creativity, critical thinking and stimulates interest in reading and writing.

Dominica held one of

the most recent Bloom Software training sessions with 48 primary school teachers. According to the facilitator and ELP Coordinator Carine Burnette: “The programme is quite important as it gives teachers or anyone who wants to write, the opportunity to generate and express ideas.

"The software further enables the teachers to publish their books for utilization within the classroom setting. The teachers had the opportunity to create content that was relevant to the students in their classrooms and the specific lessons that they are working on, to make the subject more interesting and relevant. Language, characters and activities within the books can be specifically related to the Caribbean lifestyle which enhances the reading and learning process.

"The teachers were very enthusiastic about going back to the classroom to use the software and share it with their students.”

'Prestige' is a company which owns the KFC franchise, to believe that Laventille will be like Switzerland in two years is not so much pie in the sky as ski in the pie. I can see it now: thousands of visitors coming to Trinidad to enjoy not just the sun, sand, sea and other “s” words, but also an additional one—ski. It is not impossible and will give their neglected community a definite lift. After all, Laventille is on a high hill and, despite the climate, I have seen snow fall in Trinidad. Even though it was John Snow, the English bowler, who skidded and hit the ground hard while running up to bowl in the Queen’s Park Oval, the phenomenon is not unknown.

It is easy to joke about the culture of other countries and people. It is said that the tragedy of Canadians is that they had the opportunity to combine British culture, French cuisine, and American technology but they have settled instead for British cuisine, American culture, and French technology.

In the Caribbean islands, the people of Trinidad are called “Trickydadians” because of their reputation for trying to con people.

Regarding the Chinese and other Orientals, it is said that they use different parts of the body to represent different numbers and although in these days of the coronavirus, people view them with fear and suspicion, I find you can count on them once you get to know them better. Trinis laugh at how Jamaicans drop their “Hs” in words like “hospital” or add them to words like “egg” but they can’t roll their “Rs” in their carnival like even the slimmest Bajan woman at Kadooment. These jokes are all right if they are not malicious. However, we cross the line when we deride other cultures as ignorant, savage or less than ours. As one of my friends quipped, “There are two things I hate most in the world. People who are intolerant of other people's cultures, and the British.”

Tony Deyal was last seen demonstrating why some people either don’t understand British humour or find it disgusting. By the way, “Did you hear about the guy who had his entire left side cut off? He’s all right now.”

Cancellation of Saint Lucia Jazz 2020

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he Events Company of Saint Lucia and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority have been closely monitoring the recent developments concerning the spread of COVID-19 and the global health crisis that this has created.

With the official statement on March 11, 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO) that declared the corona virus outbreak a pandemic, both agencies convened a meeting to take a hard and realistic look at the risks versus the benefits of continuing with plans to host the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival, scheduled for May 7-9, 2020, given that mass crowd events present enhanced risk factors regarding the spread of the virus.

While, as of the time of this press release, there is no confirmed case in Saint Lucia, both of our closest neighbours— Martinique and St. Vincent—have confirmed cases and it appears as if it is only a matter of time before Saint Lucia has a confirmed

case.

The agencies have also had discussions with the Chief Medical Officer and the Ministry of Health, so as to be guided by their expertise on this matter. These authorities are, of course, concerned about the nation’s ability to handle this crisis if a festival such as Saint Lucia Jazz were to take place, thereby placing greater demand on our healthcare resources, in particular.

The situation, of course, is not unique to Saint Lucia, as we continue to receive updates about festival and event cancellations globally.

There is therefore unanimous agreement that the priority has to be the health and safety of our people and, having weighed all these considerations, the Events Company of Saint Lucia and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority see no choice but to cancel this year’s Jazz Festival.

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Chastanet on COVID19: No need for panic . . . We need to prepare!

Joshua St. Aimee

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n the absence of a vaccine for COVID-19, the best option is behavioural changes.

That was Prime Minister Allen Chastanet’s message on Tuesday, shortly before the start of Tuesday’s House sitting.

With the WHO having this week declared the outbreak a pandemic, Chastanet pointed to the importance of adopting good hygiene habits and practising alternative greeting methods.

The prime minister revealed that cancellation of mass-crowd events, such as the jazz festival (see page 2) and carnival were under serious consideration. He cited cancellations of events in California and Texas, among other places. "This is very serious," he said "and whether in fact it's warranted or not, a precedent has been established.

There are meetings taking place with Events, Tourism and the Ministry of Health to make a determination."

In a special statement to the House, Chastanet said that difficult decisions have had to be made in relation to cruise ship calls to Port Castries.

Preliminary calculations had shown that approximately 18,721 cruise passengers have been foregone in the best

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet on Tuesday assured Saint Lucians that the priority is on the health sector, more so since the threats posed by COVID-19.

interest of citizens.

The prime minister also informed the House that preparations were ongoing for the 2020-2021 Budget, even as developments on the world stage were being monitored.

He highlighted that as a result of the continuing spread of COVID-19, there has been economic fallout in the global stock market. An oil price war had erupted between Russia and Saudi Arabia. This, he said, has created a tremendous amount of economic anxiety.

Chastanet disclosed

that his government was discussing with the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, the World Bank and the Caribbean Development Bank on measures and mechanisms to be implemented so as to maintain the confidence of the business community, and the viability of the local economy.

"A conference call with the International Monetary Fund is scheduled with the region for Monday next week. Hence, we're going to have to delay the budget presentation until we have a full picture of economic

MAYOR WANTS WOMEN TO BE VALUED AND RESPECTED

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ayor of Castries, His Worship Peterson D. Francis is calling for more inclusive and genderbalanced society post International Women’s Day. Mayor Francis joined communities in Saint Lucia and around the world on Sunday March 8 in celebrating International Women’s Day 2020. Speaking to the occasion, the Castries Mayor said that apart from inclusion and gender balance, there should be a celebration of the triumphs of women in the social, economic, cultural and political fields.

“To achieve real equality we must value and respect women. This consists of appreciating women’s diversity, differences and qualities. I believe that communities flourish in a society where men and women are treated equally and therefore this annual celebration affords an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and endeavours of every woman," said Mayor Francis.

“Be reminded to look beyond our borders to recognize the power of difference in each woman’s story. Most importantly, we must continue to listen, amplify and fight in solidarity.”

implications in order that our numbers can be adjusted with the new normal," the prime minister stated.

Asserting that government "will not be caught off guard", he said he was expecting a report from the Ministry of Finance that would outline the possible ways support can be given to the tourism industry and, by extension, the business community. Chastanet revealed that his government was viewing the COVID-19 situation as it would an impending most dangerous hurricane.

"As in the case of a hurricane,” he said, “we must be prepared. In this case, instead of cleaning our drains and cutting down over-hanging branches, we have to change our behaviour in terms of hygiene and how we interact with each other."

If Saint Lucia does record a case, he said, "the ability for it to spread will be significantly reduced if we don't panic.

Instead we need to prepare."

On Tuesday, Tourism Minister Dominic Fedee also acknowledged “people are scared to travel at this time”.

He cited data from travel analytics company ForwardKeys, which states that global travel was down 20 per cent and bookings to the Caribbean, 12 per cent.

"Let's not jump the gun," Fedee advised, when asked if this situation speaks to the need to diversify Saint Lucia's economy and focus less on tourism. "I think that tourism has been resilient. We've been through this with SARS, 9/11, and the 2008 crash.

Regardless of what sector you're in, a situation like this is going to have severe implications on your economic fortunes."

This week Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon BelmarGeorge announced that equipment for diagnostic testing for COVID-19 had arrived in Saint Lucia on Tuesday. She indicated that laboratory staff were undergoing training, and

by March 23 the Ministry of Health should be in a position to conduct its own tests.

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LUCIAN GREENS EYEING NEXT GENERAL ELECTION!

nticipating the number of COVID-19 cases, related deaths and affected countries to climb even higher in the days and weeks ahead, and concerned by the “alarming levels of spread and severity,” the World Health Organization on Wednesday officially characterized the disease outbreak as a pandemic. On Sunday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Department of State, highlighting the increased risk of infection of COVID-19, warned American travellers, particularly those with underlying health issues, to avoid travelling on cruise ships.

These latest developments have attracted the attention of Andre de Caries, marijuana activist and chairperson of the political party Lucian Greens.

This week an irate de Caires lamented that both the St. Lucia Labour Party and United Workers Party have both focused mainly on tourism— which he says is poised to take a massive hit from the virus. He stated that LG intends to have

seventeen candidates ready for the next general elections. Alas, the LG party has not recorded much success in its short history. In the 2011 elections, the group fielded three candidates. Of the 85,821 total ballots cast, just 17 went to LG. De Caires recalled that in 2011 his party’s manifesto was heavily focused on agriculture, with food security as one of the major elements.

The party hoped that the cannabis industry would lead the charge in luring young men into farming. The focus would not only be on monocrop but instead on creating a diversified, integrated, organic, sustainable agricultural system.

He argues that this will have a far-reaching effect on job growth, lowering the food import bill and increasing the health of our people.

He bemoaned that nine years later, both parties have placed focus mainly on the tourism industry—which he described as a trickle-down economic model, where the managers and owners get

Lashley “Motto” Winter receives Francis “Leebo” De Lima Award

Activist for marijuana decriminalization Andre de Caires laments that the SLP and UWP have both turned their backs on agriculture!

all the money, while staff get peanuts. Speaking on the banana industry, he said that people had an opportunity to make money on a weekly basis, and spend that money in the business sector paying for goods and services.

“Tourism is one of the largest employers on the island,” he said. “What happens if this [COVID-19] continues and people stop travelling? All our eggs are in one basket! I want more for our people. I want our young people to have a good life. All we’re doing is selling

Lashley Winter (left) receives a cheque after being named the inaugural winner.

T beaches and building hotels.

We can’t even feed ourselves.”

De Caires added: “We have a radical agenda. We support the Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender community. We want to legalize prostitution; we want to legalize cannabis. More and more people are fed up with the twoparty political system. People are fed up! They’re throwing stones at each other and the people of the country are no better off.”

---JSA

he Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) and CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank have conferred the CIBC Francis “Leebo” De Lima Aspiring Artist Award for 2019 on Lashley Winter a.k.a. “Motto”. Lashley’s work, which resonates with many at home and abroad, expresses who we are as a nation and people. He has been creating and presenting works which are anchored in our multi-cultural heritage and represent new peaks of excellence and innovation. His artistic achievements are an inspiration for all Saint Lucians.

The Board of Directors, management and staff of the CDF congratulate Mr. Winter, not only for creating excellent musical experiences but also

for his role in giving back to the community through education and mentorship.

The CIBC Francis “Leebo” De Lima Aspiring Artist Award was instituted in 2019 and this is the first award conferred.

The award recognises aspiring artistes whose work has shown clear artistic vision and potential for continued excellence in the musical arts, the field of production, literary arts, modern media, visual and performing arts.Recipients are encouraged to continue to grow in their artistic practice and nurture future artistic talents.

The Award also helps to raise greater awareness and appreciation of the works by our arts and cultural icons, positioning Saint Lucia as a vibrant cultural hub.

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WHO IS MORE CREDIBLE ON THE CORONAVIRUS: MDs OR MPs?

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aint Lucia may not yet have recorded its first case of coronavirus at time of writing. Nevertheless its ominous shadow has hit the country with hurricane force.

Earlier this week we heard a talk-radio host referring to a certain politician’s recommendation: the formation of a select committee comprising “at least three government and two opposition MPs”. The radio host though, with reference to the mystery virus, was of the view that this is not a time to be hearing from the politicians: “If we want to get through this we cannot ask the politicians to play any leading role. We want the face of our fight to be the likes of the CMO [Chief Medical Officer].”

The politician who made the recommendation? None other than former prime minister Kenny Anthony who on Tuesday declared: “I believe this is a matter that calls for a high level of political dialogue between both political parties. I firmly believe that. And I’m not so sure that this is a dialogue that should be conducted through NEMAC [National Emergency Management Advisory Committee]. I am not so sure, despite their responsibility. Perhaps the better thing might have been for the House to appoint a special committee of the House comprising members of the government and members of the opposition to meet regularly in dialogue with the medical community, the medical fraternity, to discuss the issue and what is unfolding.”

He felt certain the leader of the opposition would agree that the special committee of politicians could more credibly than NEMAC communicate with the nation “messages from a common page”, conceivably because it was apolitical. The fact that the ‘E’ in NEMAC spells out its raison d’etre—to advise on such emergencies as the coronavirus, evidently flew over the erudite MP’s political head.

As for the ostensible ideal being to send out “messages from a common page”, again the Vieux Fort South MP seemed not to realize that this matter had already been taken care of. The opposition’s MP for Dennery North, Shawn Edward, had recently acknowledged this aspect when he publicly announced “on behalf of the parliamentary opposition” that the NEMAC presentations

the health system will need an increased admission of beds for patients to be admitted for care for COVID-19. To facilitate this we will be working closely with Victoria and St Jude Hospitals, and the wider community in clinical teams, to ensure that from now, persons are aware of what to do, how to manage.

“The Office of the Prime Minister has endorsed an accelerated move to the OKEU. This information will be communicated publicly through that office. So this will provide us the opportunity for an expanded number of beds within the case. This has been much of our Victoria Hospital, for Victoria to become our respiratory hospital. focus.”

These details will be given Belmar-George added officially to the public. But this is that the island had not yet just to indicate that we do have discovered any cases of a plan for expansion of beds for COVID-19. However, it was admissions when we get to that “important for the public to stage. be aware of our in-country “Our budget has been transmission plan and what approved so we’ve been actively will be expected once we get procuring our equipment, extra cases and we have in-country medication, personal protective transmissions. Between 2.1 equipment so, as needed, we will per cent and 2.9 per cent be able to utilize. The Ministry of persons pass away from of Health, through support from COVID-19. Those persons the Ministry of Finance, has quite tend to be elderly and with steadily been working with the comorbid conditions. We at the team from the Caribbean Public Ministry of Health do not want Health Agency [CARPHA] to see anybody to get sick. We are how we could acquire our own not saying anybody should die diagnostic capacity in-country. but it gives us an idea of our high-risk groups and the groups The equipment for diagnostic testing for COVID-19 came in of persons we need to work yesterday [Tuesday] so we towards once we get cases.

“When we have in-country have received the equipment to transmission we will be setting facilitate testing. The reagents will be coming in tomorrow up five community clinics at [Thursday] and our laboratory five areas: Gros Islet, Dennery, staff will be undergoing testing Soufriere, Castries and Vieux next week for use of the machine Fort. Those clinics will be set and for testing for COVID-19. So up in those communities for persons who have any concern. we anticipate if all goes well, by the week of March 23 we should 81 per cent of persons develop have the capacity for diagnostic this disease in a mild form so testing here in Saint Lucia.” most persons will be able to Considering some of Pierre’s stay home and be okay. Most questions to himself at a recent persons will not need medical party press conference—Does attention. So our community Saint Lucia possess any on-shore clinics will serve as the first point of contact for persons who testing facilities for the virus to make informed and scienceare concerned they may have driven decisions? Can the prime had the disease. minister release a National “We have set up a fifteen Plan of Action that provides as bed isolation unit within the comprehensive as possible, Victoria Hospital. These beds how we will respond to any are for persons who need severity in cases? What plans hospital admission. These will are there for the elderly?”—it be persons within the severe would appear he’s been out to group. Usually, we note from lunch throughout most of the what is happening in the other last couple of weeks. But then, countries, they tend to be some might say the opposition older and tend to have other leader was preoccupied with the comorbid conditions such as prime minister’s ability to be in diabetes, renal disease, liver disease, lung conditions. So we Barbados and Saint Lucia at the anticipate, when we look at our same time!

--Dean Nestor disease profile for Saint Lucia, Kenny Anthony seems to be of the view politicians are better placed to communicate on health matters, including the coronavirus, than medical experts.

he had attended on February 28 were “world class”. Of course, that had not prevented opposition leader Philip J Pierre from broadcasting without evidence the exact contrary— that Saint Lucia is “the worst prepared for the virus in the entire region” despite that he had absented himself from the NEMAC meeting. In any event, Anthony insisted at Tuesday’s House that NEMAC “cannot be the body, cannot be the instrument” to achieve the level of dialogue he had in mind.

When it comes to speaking from the same page, the adage “Physician, heal thyself” comes to mind; or would “Do as I say, not as I do,” serve better here?

As illustrated above, party brethren Edward and Pierre certainly offered different messages in relation to NEMAC. As for their party’s first deputy leader Ernest Hilaire, he too seemed to be singing his own song on Tuesday: “I don’t think one can say with any level of comfort that Saint Lucia is adequately prepared.”

To her credit, CMO Sharon Belmar-George has kept her unflappable head while all around her, opposition politicians seem to be losing theirs. On Wednesday she said: “We thought it important to update the public on our in-country transmission plans.

We have been working on a level of preparedness. That is, heightened surveillance for us to be able to, first of all, reduce the number of cases coming in, which we have done with our travel restrictions and our heightened surveillance at the ports and within our hotels and also through the intelligence that we’ve received with external agencies. We have also been working very closely with the relevant agencies to allow us to pick up anyone who may fit the description of a suspect

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Constitutional Reform: Crossing the floor and The Right of Recall!

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t can hardly be a surprise that, with the single exception of the powers of the prime minister, no other issue occupied the minds of Saint Lucians interviewed by the Constitutional Reform Commission more than “the nature of the electoral system and the general elections environment.”

According to the report submitted after some seven years of consultations to parliament by Justice Suzie d’Auvergne’s Constitutional Reform Commission, and debated in the House on 18 August 2015, the commissioners had acknowledged the consensus that “this constitutional power of the prime minister tended to give an unfair advantage to the ruling political party that would always select an election date most convenient to them.”

The commission took into account the system that provides for a vote of no confidence against the government and suggested it might be impractical to maintain “that important instrument of censure” while instituting the fixed-date elections.

It recommended that our “every five years” situation be replaced by a fixed date, except under circumstances where a successful no-confidence motion automatically triggered a dissolution of the Parliament of Saint Lucia.

The commission strongly advocated the retention of the current constitutional provision that empowers the Head of State to dissolve the parliament “if the prime minister fails either to resign or advise dissolution within three days of the passing of a resolution of no confidence in the government.”

If I may be permitted a personal observation: Whenever the question of rights arises here—and it does, daily— someone is certain to reference the d’Auvergne report along

with the line that the related 2015 House debate had marked the only time the government and the opposition found common ground. Often they will add that both sides of the House had united in their opposition of the recommended Right of Recall.

But then, how true is that?

This from the report: “Against the backdrop of tremendous concern expressed by Saint Lucians about the behavior of elected parliamentarians, lack of accountability between elections, and general limited contact between parliamentary representatives and constituents, the commission considered the proposals to make parliamentary representatives more responsive to the people . . .”

A number of mechanisms were contemplated that had been utilized in various jurisdictions to create a closer relationship between constituents and the elected members of parliament. In the opinion of the commission, the recall mechanism offered a best practice which could easily be adopted without seriously undermining the working of the system.

The commission explained that the mechanism is designed to trigger a recall election of an elected official “who in the view of the electorate has failed to perform or has violated a regulation.” It was globally considered, by the commission’s measure, one of the best means of institutionalizing a form of direct democracy in which the politically relevant citizens are able to cut short the term of an elected representative through a public vote.

While there were several modalities “as a general rule, using the recall mechanism requires the affected citizens to sign a petition. Only when “a sufficient number of the electorate signs the petition would a recall process be

initiated.”

The commission emphasized that “a recall should only be initiated on very limited and specific grounds and should be subject to a time line.” The following conditions had to be first satisfied: Nonperformance in relation to constituency duties and which could only be initiated after the MP has served at least half of his or her parliamentary term.

Or, breach of a law, rule or ethical standard established by parliament.

There was also the matter of political terpsichoreans. The commission recommended that “an automatic recall should commence in the case of a Member of Parliament crossing the floor, which would lead to an automatic vacating of the parliamentary seat.”

The MP for Castries Central, when he addressed the matter of a fixed date for general elections, had religion on his mind. “Mr. Speaker, the fixed date may fall on a Sunday,” he said. “Would this mean we’d be constitutionally bound to have a general election on a Saturday or a Sunday? Food for thought.”

He suggested that if the date fell on days normally set aside for religious purpose the elections should be held on the following Monday.

He felt certain his fellow parliamentarians would not be opposed to his suggestion.

As for crossing the floor and the Right of Recall, the MP considered the recommendations of the commission, “so funny.”

He chose to offer his “own situation” for consideration.

“Say, the leader of the opposition and his cahoots fired me.”

He paused, smiled, abandoned the hypothetical in favor of the anecdotal.

“Let us deal with the Richard Frederick issue,” he said.

“There is a provision in law

Often referred to by at least one section of the media as “prime minister in waiting,” Philip J. Pierre, at the time the House debated the Constitutional Reform Report, compared the office of prime minister with that of “a major company’s CEO.”

here . . . I want to use my own situation to understand what the Constitution is saying: If you run for elections on the ticket of one party and after you have won you want to cross the floor to another party, the votes you received can be taken from you and you have to go through another election. I understand that. But what the Constitution does not make provision for is that when they fire you, as the leader of the United Workers Party and his partners fired me . . . I want to know, where is the constitutional provision for this?

I did not cross the floor. They fired me. They kicked me out.

They removed me.”

That smile again that spoke volumes. “When a man finds himself in the political wilderness,” he went on, “does this amount to crossing the floor?”

The member for Castries East, also deputy prime minister, chose to address the power of the prime minister. From his vantage the commission’s recommendations would render the office of the prime minister “almost, well, it strips the prime minister of all the power a prime minister should have. What it does is that it gives people, people from outside who were not elected, the privilege to make rules, to dictate to the people who were elected what to do. And then the prime minister will be at the whims and fancies of all these

people.”

It was difficult to follow the member’s thinking. Several times he spoke as if particular individuals had already been handpicked to undertake particular functions, especially in relation to the power of the prime minister. From his vantage the commission’s recommendations in that regard made little sense.

“Mr. Speaker, our system dictates that the prime minister should have some measure of control over the people who are in the government with him,” he said. “I am sure a businessman, a CEO, would have some measure of control over his employees, because in the final analysis the prime minister is the most equal among equals.

The U.S. president has veto powers. So even though there is a cabinet and a congress the president can veto what happens in the congress. I may be wrong, but I have seen no powers of veto in the document before us.”

He took another leap aboard the business metaphor: “Mr. Speaker, when people look to invest in major companies they look at who is the CEO. Who will be the person to manage their money. But in our system we believe that because one is a politician he ought not to have any say in the running of the country because he may not be the best brain or he may not have what we believe

is enough sense or enough intelligence or enough education.

And the prime minister is worse.”

For a split second it seemed he would address something related directly to the commission’s recommendations: “I think elections should have a fixed date so that everyone will know at a particular time when elections are taking place.” From here he moved immediately to the bottom line: “I think politicians should be accountable but I also think politicians should be paid.”

He returned to the business model: “I never understand why CEOs in every company, not even a major company, have certain perks and privileges that we must not have, just because we happen to be politicians.” Who knew back then that the time was just around the corner when a new prime minister would be excoriated for saying he intended to operate his government as if it were a business?

At last the Castries East MP arrived at the Right of Recall.

“These things sound very nice in theory,” he said. “They sound very nice to the people who are talking. But the reality is never considered. How do you recall a parliamentarian? What is the basis? You say it’s when he has not performed in his constituency.

If you have a situation where the parliamentarian is given a certain level of resources to manage himself, then you can have the power of recall. But if the parliamentarian does not have the resources, how can you recall him?”

The member for Micoud North welcomed the recommended Right of Recall, on the basis that “if the people think it is right that a member be recalled, if they believe they have reasons for a recall . . . the people who elect you should have the right to dismiss you” in accordance with the stated procedures.

The Castries South MP also supported the Right of Recall, if only conditionally. He was of the view that the recall should not be based on a member having been dumped by his party. Score one for Richard Frederick!

Next Week: Philip J. Pierre comments on the commission’s recommendations in relationship to the ticklish subject of term limits for prime ministers.

THE STAR

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MARCH 14, 2020

SHAWN EDWARD ON HIS ASSESSMENT OF NEMAC: ‘I STAND BY WHAT I SAID!’ Dean Nestor

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t Tuesday’s House sitting the fallout from Philip J Pierre’s “I’ve never practised rumour and lies” was palpable. It seemed every reporter at the scene wanted to hear from Shawn Edward on the subject of his and his party leader’s contrasting assessments of NEMAC (National Emergency Management Advisory Committee). Ernest Hilaire was first to comment to reporters.

“There’s no contradiction,” he said. “Shawn listened to a presentation and made comments based on the presentation that was made. What the leader of the opposition was saying, was our prime minister was supposed to have been at a meeting in Barbados and was not there. And you know there’s a lot of noise.

Shawn Edward would have to explain what he saw and what he heard that he thought was justifiable as described by him.

But what the political leader was saying was the prime minister should have been at a meeting and he was not there. As to whether he was there for the opening part is a different issue.

But I think they’re two totally different issues.”

Hilaire’s reaction seemed to align with that of the opposition leader’s now famous “worst prepared” assertion: “I don’t think one can say with any level of comfort that Saint Lucia is adequately prepared, and I think those questions will come up and certainly today we’ll get a chance, hopefully from the government, as to just how prepared Saint Lucia is.”

More Labour Party division, even over the country’s level of preparedness? Or is there more to the evident contradiction than meets other than starry eyes?

Hilaire made certain to add: I’m not disagreeing with him [Shawn Edward]. I was not at the presentation. I did not see what he saw. And I cannot make an assessment for myself. He made an assessment based on what he saw. I have not seen that so I cannot make an assessment. I may hear the same thing he did, and agree or disagree with him based on what he saw. I know I can make a judgment based on what I know and what I expect to

Was Philip J Pierre briefed on the extremely important NEMAC meeting held here to discuss St Lucia’s coronavirus preparations? Despite the serious threat the virus poses, on Tuesday Pierre stated that his briefings with Shawn Edward are an internal matter.

hear.”

Hilaire revealed that he had put to Edward “about fifteen questions and he was not in a position to answer because those were further questions that probably did not come up at the [NEMAC] meeting. But of course, you have to be fair to him. He listened to a presentation and he thought it was an excellent presentation in his view. I’m not saying he’s wrong or he’s right; I was not there when the presentation was made.” Talk about walking in a minefield!

As for Pierre’s explanation for what turned out to be “rumours and lies”, as well as that “world class" review, this is what he told reporters on Tuesday: “I was out of the country.

And I have an airline ticket to prove that.” He quickly referenced the political chameleon in his soul. He sought to change the line of questioning. “Let me tell you what’s important!” he thundered.

“What’s important is Saint Lucia has, up to today, we have absolutely no testing facilities for the coronavirus. Up to today,

we are still debating whether we have to use Rat Island as a quarantine scene. What is important is that cruise ships are cancelling their visits to Saint Lucia. That’s what’s important. What the honourable Shawn Edward said at the meeting . . . he said so. What’s important is let’s deal with the real issues. Can we test people here for the virus?”

Pressed further, he added: “I can’t speak for Shawn Edward.

Shawn Edward will be here and you can ask him whatever you want. What I know is, up to today, Saint Lucia cannot test for the virus. That’s what I know.”

Now he changed to the colour of an advisor to the prime minister. “Let me advise the government that they ought to stop playing petty politics and agree this is a serious situation and we have to deal with it with the seriousness it dictates.”

Asked if his statements regarding NEMAC and the prime minister’s presence in Barbados could be called petty politics, and whether he had left himself open to suggestions he was politicizing the coronavirus issue, Pierre had just three words: “That’s your opinion.”

This reporter pressed on: Following the meeting of NEMAC that Edward had glowingly reviewed, did the SLP’s first deputy report to his leader? “That is a matter of internal,” said Pierre. “My briefings with Shawn Edward is what he and I speak of.

That’s internal.”

For his own part, Shawn Edward has remained consistent.

In answer to my question, he replied, “I stand by what I said.”

Antigua records first COVID-19 case A

ntigua and Barbuda has confirmed its first case of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. The announcement was made yesterday by Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne during an address to the nation being carried live on ABS TV/Radio. Samples from two individuals were sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency, CARPHA, in Trinidad and Tobago. One sample was cleared and the other returned positive for COVID-19. The infected person arrived in the island from the United Kingdom and shortly afterward exhibited symptoms of the disease. Prime Minister Browne says the infected person has been isolated. He is urging residents not to panic and says all is being done to prevent any spread to the domestic population.

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GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHAMBERS Applications are invited for the position of Coordinator-4th Round Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) Mutual Evaluation with the Attorney General’s Chambers. The principle responsibilities, specifications, associated details for the position and qualification requirements are provided below.

Principle Responsibilities The successful applicant will perform the following duties and responsibilities and will report to the Attorney General, Permanent Secretary and NAMLOC: 1. Gather, collate and analyze data and other information from relevant public and private stakeholders and the general public relating to antimoney laundering/anti-terrorism financing awareness and compliance systems.

2. Organize and Coordinate round table discussions, conferences and workshops with policy makers/ stakeholders.

3. Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual reports.

4. Coordinate meetings for NAMLOC, develop work plan for the NAMLOC and track progress.

5. Record minutes of committee meetings.

6. Coordinate all interface between the NAMLOC and CFATF. 7. Oversee the updating and dissemination of the NRA. 8. Prepare annual budget and expenditure statements.

9. Undertake any other responsibility as may be assigned by the Attorney General, Permanent Secretary and NAMLOC. Qualification and Experience Requirements Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Banking, Finance, Risk Analysis or completion of an Advanced Stage of Professional Qualification in Banking, Law or related discipline plus 5 years’ experience in related post.

Or Professional qualification in Banking or Law, Plus 7 years’ experience in related post.

Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) certification and/or experience in anti-money laundering/ anti-terrorism financing compliance will be an asset.

Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and will be in accordance with the terms stipulated by the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Suitable qualified applicants will be acknowledged and invited for an interview.

Application with resume including the names and contact details of two referees must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked: Confidential-Application for the Postion of Coordinator National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee and must be sent to: The Permanent Secretary Attorney General’s Chambers 2nd Floor, Francis Compton Building Waterfront, Castries OR By email, signed and in pdf format to: ps.agchambers@govt.lc Applications must reach the address above or email address below by March 31st, 2020

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MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

SENATOR CALLS FOR INQUIRY INTO ST. JUDE! T

he motion down for debate at Thursday's Senate sitting sought approval for government to borrow US$20 million for the St. Jude Redevelopment Project. Two days earlier—after hours of debate mostly filled with the usual finger-pointing and casting blame, much of it heard and seen countless times before—the motion had been passed in the House of Assembly. The current government began construction on a new wing at the Vieux Fort site last year, stating that the existing structures "were not built up to standards for a hospital".

At a press briefing in January this year, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Economic Development, Mr. Claudius Emmanuel, identified December 2020 as the potential opening date. Independent Senator Mauricia Thomas-Francis began her presentation on Thursday by quoting Luke 14:28.

"But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building

Senator Mauricia Thomas-Francis: On Thursday she called out fellow senators on both sides for their lack of accountability on the St. Jude Hospital project. She insisted that what’s most needed now is a commission of enquiry.

without first calculating the cost, to see if there is enough money o finish it?"

She lamented that while the Senate was being asked to approve a US$20 million loan, the total cost of the project had not been provided. She reminded fellow senators that they were seeking to approve this loan in 2020, over ten years since the redevelopment project began.

The obvious suggestion was that there were significant mistakes made, she said, which were related to “ineffective project management”.

The senator’s main focus was that of accountability for the over EC$100 million spent on the project since 2009. She said citizens were suffering from subject matter fatigue. Moreover, that she was enervated by the constant bickering and fingerpointing over the years by both sides of the House. Meanwhile, she observed, “No one takes

responsibility for what went wrong.” She asserted that Saint Lucians no longer want to hear "who did what, who should’ve done what, and who didn't do what". What citizens expect and voted for, she said, is accountability.

The senator bemoaned that to this day there has not been a commission of inquiry in this matter—which is what is most required. "We waste over $100 million on a project,” she said, “and to this day we cannot tell the country what value we've created for that money. We behave as if we're a rich country.

Are we a rich country? Do we have the resources to claim that we're a rich country; that we can afford to waste over $100 million without giving an account?"

Said the senator: "The fiasco and the wastage of over $100 million is an indictment on both sides, and we are fed up

of all the bickering. We are fed up! The people of this country deserve proper healthcare. I believe they have waited long enough. I believe they have suffered long enough."

Thomas-Francis implored all parliamentarians to learn from what had obviously gone wrong, lest the same mistakes recur.

In 2018 the government announced that upon assuming office in 2016, "several irregularities" were uncovered that demanded further examination. Among the pressing matters, the "costly St. Jude project". The government said all public officials should give full account of their stewardship, and always be willing to answer questions on matters related to their tenure. That has not happened, and certainly not in relation to St.Jude.

---Joshua St. Aimee

Export Saint Lucia Undertakes its Largest Outward Trade Mission to Date

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he Government of Saint Lucia’s Trade Export Promotion Agency, Export Saint Lucia, conducted one of its biggest trade missions to date within the isles of Grenada and St. Vincent. The mission, which ran from March 9 to 13, is as a direct result of two in-market research missions conducted in 2019.

The findings highlighted specific opportunities for Saint Lucian products and services, thus the mission seeks to take advantage of these opportunities and also Article 164 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (see page 14), which seeks to promote industrial development in the Less Developed Countries (LDCs) of CARICOM, including Saint Lucia.

It provides a regime of support, on a temporary basis, to eligible goods produced in LDCs to help boost their competitiveness and their level of participation in intraregional trade in the CSME. Ms. Sunita Daniel, CEO of Export Saint Lucia, said, “CARICOM on a whole has long been an invaluable trade partner

for Saint Lucia. Even more so have been the OECS and our Windward Island sisters.”

She also said, “The main objectives of the mission are to further solidify trade partnerships with regional buyers and to explore new opportunities for Saint Lucian products and services that have not yet been introduced to these markets.”

The mission comprised 13 companies, namely Caribbean Awning Production Company Limited, Frootsy Foods Ltd., Tolyn manufacturers Ltd., Saint Lucia Distillers, Windward & Leeward Brewery Ltd., Tenderoni Ltd., H&L Environmental Services, Caribbean Metals Ltd., Natmed Ltd., Antillia Brewing, Abby’s Exotic Blends, Shop D Caribbean and Cotch Jewelry. The contingent scheduled meetings with partners, potential buyers, and government officials.

Through this mission the companies involved had the opportunity of hands-on promotional impact on the market and to gain access to high-level

buyers, as well as gather a greater sense of the conditions that exist in these regional markets.

Export promotion remains one of the primary functions of Export Saint Lucia. While there are various promotional tools available to increase exports, trade missions remain one of the most efficient, primarily because they bring together entrepreneurs and suppliers to forge partnerships and also give manufacturers and service providers a direct experience with companies’ processes and business culture.

Furthermore, trade missions present networking opportunities, which can result in fruitful partnerships and trade deals, yielding business opportunities even months or years after the initial mission.

Export Saint Lucia continues to chart the path and navigate the waters leading to export development and economic growth for the benefit of our island and region.

THE STAR

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ARE WE ARE OWN WORST ENEMIES EVEN IN THIS TIME OF THE CORONAVIRUS?

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ver the last few weeks, more than a few Facebook fanatics have let the STAR know in their usual literary style that our coverage of the coronavirus has been “too politics focused”—which is,

of course, in itself a political statement. Last week I reported on Kenny Anthony’s Lunch Room interview with his former political attaché Calixte George Jr. “Rick leave Kenny alone!

Talk about coronavirus!” was

the typical reaction. In the Eyes Wide Shut world of Facebook, every word in this paper is written by the STAR publisher, regardless of the attached byline!

On Tuesday news broke

COVID-19: Prime Minister to Address Nation following Meetings with Key Stakeholders

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he Government of Saint Lucia remains in responsive and planning mode to manage the impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

The Government is mindful of the anxiety being faced by citizens and several countries at this time and the proliferation of the sharing of false news which creates further uneasiness.

The Government reiterates that the only authority who communicates in terms of Saint Lucia’s response on public health matters is the Chief Medical Officer (CMO).

The Government further reiterates that the only authority to communicate any national response or any possible interruption in the normal management and daily operations of the country, is the Honourable Prime Minister.

The Ministry of Health has informed that there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Saint Lucia, however, the Government remains vigilant in its quest to prepare Saint Lucia for all scenarios.

Hence, as a result of the dynamic nature of the Coronavirus situation: s 4HERE IS A 3PECIAL -EETING of the Cabinet of Ministers scheduled for Saturday March 14th 2020, to discuss and review policy options and considerations on how Saint Lucia is preparing to cope with COVID 19. s /N 3UNDAY -ARCH TH THE Prime Minister will meet with the private sector and union leaders to review and discuss measures by the Government and the private sector, as to how Saint Lucia is positioned to defend against the impact of

of British health minister Nadine Dorries having tested positive for the coronavirus.

By Wednesday, the WHO had declared it a pandemic. Later that day the NBA suspended play indefinitely, following news that Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert had tested positive for the virus. On Thursday, the NBA community was rocked by the news that Gobert’s teammate Donavan Mitchell also tested positive.

Guy Joseph summed it up on the parliament floor on Tuesday: “People have become overnight experts on the subject. Meanwhile the world’s scientists and its most renowned experts have been humbled by the phenomenon.

The world is grappling with how to deal with this disease. Italy decided first to shut down most of the country, and the following day they decide to shut down altogether. The US is having its problems with tests kits. I’m not

spreading any fear. But we can only do the best we can in our situation, and try to deal with what comes up.”

The Castries South MP turned to physics and the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, according to which “the very act of measuring a phenomenon changes the phenomenon being measured in such a way as to make future readings unpredictable.” Which also applies to what we consider useful coverage of the virus.

Pointless featuring information that by the time it gets published has essentially metamorphosed into fake news. Besides, the government, through its related agencies, is providing “world class” information. Meanwhile our Facebook critics are up to their usual mischief. On Sunday it was claimed, via an established online news outlet, that the island had recorded its first

COVID-19 casualty. The outlet’s representatives were forced to acknowledge the work of a 'hacker' hack. Again the nation was reminded to trust only the information put out by the health ministry’s chief medical officer Dr. Sharon BelmarGeorge.

It is this very sort of cybercrime that prompted Prime Minister Allen Chastanet to say: “Anything you’re getting overseas . . . call up the Ministry of Health to get it clarified.” As for the mischief makers: “We are going to be using cyber technology to track down those putting out any erroneous information designed to create panic in our country.” Which, of course, invoked the ghost of Kenny Anthony’s Section

THANKFULLY LONG DEAD AND buried—as the prime minister will discover should he seek to keep his word, however well intentioned.

--DN

ANNOUNCEMENT ANNUAL AUDIT & FINANCIAL REPORT Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.

COVID-19. s /N -ONDAY -ARCH TH

there will be another meeting of the National Emergency Management Advisory Committee (NEMAC) to ensure all stakeholders are aware of the plans for Saint Lucia and what decisions will be made.

It is only after this consultative process and planning, that the Prime Minister will Address the Nation. The Prime Minister in that address will apprise the country of any decisions regarding the tightening or strengthening of borders or major adjustments to our country’s operations.

The Government continues to call on all citizens to refrain from sharing false information.

A hotline will be operational by next week using the “311”

number where citizens will be able to get information or share information on COVID-19.

The Government notes that in order to manage this situation we all need to play a role as responsible citizens.

The preparation of our country is key and the Government assures the nation that we have been taking the necessary steps to protect the country. The Ministry of Health has been engaged in the constant training of our emergency workers, police and all stakeholders.

Hence, the Government continues to advise that Saint Lucians follow the advice of the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) and practice healthy behaviours that reduce risk of exposure and infection.

The Citizenship by Investment Unit invites proposals from Auditing/Accounting firms for: Annual Audit & Financial Report Please visit http:/www.cipsaintlucia.com for a copy of the RFP Document Please contact the Accountant for further details at email: lfrancis@cipsaintlucia.com Proposals are to be submitted in a sealed envelope on or before 16th March, 2020 and addressed to: ATT: Nestor Alfred Chief Executive Officer Citizenship by Investment Unit 5th Floor Francis Compton Building Waterfront Castries Saint Lucia, West Indies Mark all packages as stated below: RFP Title: Annual Audit & Financial Report

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MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

TEA & TESTIMONY - MAKING IT HAPP challenges. To this end, five guest speakers shared their uplifting personal stories.

Karen Du Boulay-Hunte, unday March 8 was a Director of the Make it International Women’s Day. Happen Foundation, opened the It is an occasion marked proceedings with a short prayer. annually around the world but Mistress of ceremonies Sergin few places recognise it with John Baptiste then welcomed the same style and panache as exhibited in Saint Lucia. For the the ladies (and, delightfully, a smattering of men showing second year running, the Make it Happen Foundation organised support for International Women’s Day) before inviting Tea & Testimony, a ladies’ tea Mae Wayne to the podium. party hosted at Government Ms. Wayne is the co-owner House by Raquel Du Boulayand Managing Director of Star Chastanet, the Founder and Publications. She spoke of the Chairperson of the Foundation, trials and tribulations that she and the wife of Prime Minister had endured and how these Allen Chastanet. Lady Cenac, never thwarted her in carving the Governor General’s wife, was a guest of honour. Last year out a successful bodybuilding career in the United States all profits went to the Women’s Support Centre; this year, profits and then establishing, with her husband, a printing and are in aid of the Saint Lucia publishing house in Saint Lucia.

Nurses Association.

Describing her early setbacks in What makes the event life, she offered a key message: so eye-catching is the dress code: Pretty in Pink (with a Hat). “Embrace your personal history; it shapes who you are. You can’t Imagine: 400 women attired change your circumstances but in every conceivable shade of you can control how we view pink, topped off with a hat or and empower ourselves.” fascinator. And Lucian ladies Ms. Wayne emphasised know how to add pizazz to an that “failure is a bruise, not outfit! But beyond fashion, the a tattoo” and how she had idea behind Tea & Testimony “always looked at the glass as is to commune in sisterhood, half-full”. “Think: ’I do, I am, I and provide inspiration by can,’ and you will!” she urged. highlighting obstacles that “Believe it, anything is possible women have overcome, and if you are willing to work hard the successes that they have and pay the price. Failing at achieved in spite of such

By Doretta Francois

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something does not make you a failure. Be patient; the day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.”

The next speaker, Ms. Wendy Delmar, is CEO of the Caribbean Association of Banks, and a proud mother. She stated her mission: “I will take you through some of the defining parts of my life in the hopes of inspiring each and every one of you, and that you will rise above any challenges and obstacles that you may face in your life.”

Ms. Delmar, with her eloquent and often humorous delivery, had the keen ear of everybody as she recalled one of her low points: “I remember my simple prayer: courage to face whatever awaited me, grace to handle it and strength to cope with it.” She focused on how one’s attitude can determine outcomes, stating, “The difference between success and failure is in your mind. If you choose to be defeated, you will walk in defeat.” She concluded with a comment that embodied the theme for the afternoon: “Challenge inspires me; it always has and I pray that it always will. There is nothing that we cannot do individually but, boy!, can we blaze it if we do it together!” Cue resounding applause!

Pastor Yvonne Alexander spoke of her humble origins, and how she was forced to finish school at the age of fourteen. She thanked God (and her macrame skills and her father’s encouragement) for her ascent in the business world and for where she is in life today. A gifted storyteller, she often had the audience “in stitches” with her recollections but she wove her words back to the serious, confirming: “Having God on my side, a good character and integrity — these are the key factors that propelled me to my next level in life and to my success.”

Lady Cenac.

The thread throughout Pastor Yvonne’s observations was persistence and determination: “Pursue that vision with everything you have!

One person, one word, can encourage you. But also, one negative word can discourage you. Don’t take in the negative; take the positive!”

Berthia Parle, who became a luminary in the tourism industry, needed little introduction as her achievements were already familiar to the assembled.

Ms. Parle related how hard work and study had enabled her to “break through the glass ceiling”, including appointment as the first female president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. “This was no mean feat,” she admitted. “I saw myself as opening the way for women to follow, and indeed they did.”

Ms. Parle concluded with a rally call: “All of us here today are endowed and blessed with the ability and potential to innovate and to accelerate our stride into the future . . . working together on behalf of all our citizens to the ultimate benefit of all our people.”

The final speaker, Allison Jean, humbled the audience with her tale of confronting adversity and calamity, even before “the worst tragedy in my life” — the killing of her eldest son, Botham, that thrust her and her family into the global spotlight. She referred to the tremendous support she had received and expressed her sincere thanks, telling the gathering, “I learned that we need each other; so hook a sister up, give her a call, send her a text message, do something, but we need each other.”

Ms. Jean also addressed the subject of healthcare, stressing the importance of looking after oneself and having regular medical consultations

and tests. After revealing her hardships she declared, “Sisters, I have taken you on my journey not for pity, but to give you hope. That, despite your darkest hour, your deepest pit, your gravest circumstances, God gives his people hope and strength.”

In addition to the inspirational speeches and delicious afternoon tea of sandwiches, fruits, savouries and cakes, ladies had the opportunity to win prizes.

Acknowledging the effort that had been put into looking “Pretty in Pink”, presentations were made for best dress, best fascinator and best overall outfit, the latter won by Mira Norbert who dazzled in ruffled fuchsia.

One of the exciting components of the tea party was an auction, ably administered by David Du Boulay. The items generously donated for the auction and the raffle helped to boost funds raised for the Saint Lucia Nurses Association, as did an impromptu pledge of EC$2,500

by Digicel.

The dedication of nurses often goes unacknowledged, but not at this year’s Tea & Testimony. Mrs. Chastanet spoke of the efforts and sacrifices made by our nurses and why the Nurses Association was selected to be the beneficiary of all profits raised from the day’s

tea party. The dozens of nurses present were applauded for their hard work, and two members of the Nurses Association, now retired, were recognised for their commitment to the profession. Citations were given of the dedicated service of Christiana Matthieu and Janetha Walker who were each then presented with a $250 shopping voucher from Wings of Love, a $250 private donation from a medical doctor, a case of drinks from Windward & Leeward Brewery Ltd, plus a voucher for a lunch for two at Coco Palm’s Ti Bananne Restaurant.

The Make it Happen Foundation is extremely grateful to all of the many sponsors and donors who munificently supported the tea party.

THE STAR

MARCH 14, 2020

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PPEN FOR THE NURSES ASSOCIATION

Ms. Mira Norbert.

Special mention goes to Beauty Max who supplied “goody bags” of toiletries and cosmetics to every single guest; to First Citizens Investment Services Ltd; to Wings of Love, who also had a “pop-up” shop at the venue (much to the delight of the shopaholics); and to St. Lucia Distillers. The sponsors and donors, organising committee, volunteers, supporters and patrons all ensured that this year’s Tea & Testimony was a phenomenal success, plus a meaningful and entertaining way to celebrate International Women’s Day 2020. The writer is also given to understand that ladies are already ordering pink outfits and hats for next year!

Mrs. Mae Wayne (left) and Mrs. Rosie Joinville.

Mrs. Allison Jean.

Mrs. Raquel Du Boulay-Chastanet.

Mrs. Wendy Delmar.

Mrs. Berthia Parle.

Ms. Sergin John Baptiste.

Pastor Yvonne Alexander.

STAR employee Ms. Sancha Didier.

Mrs. Raquel Du Boulay-Chastanet. and daughter Rhyan.

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Revitalising the OECS Business Council

he revitalisation of the OECS Business Council was the focus of discussions at a recent meeting hosted by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), through the Competitive Business Unit (OECS CBU), the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and Members of the OECS Business Council. The gathering was held in Antigua and Barbuda on February 20 and 21, 2020.

The OECS Business Council was created to provide a collective response to common issues which impact the business environment in the region and, by extension, the final consumer, and includes one representative from each OECS Member State.

Hence, the OECS Business Council plays a critical role in ensuring the contribution of private sector partners in policy-making at the regional level.

In the main, the two-day meeting focused on the reestablishment of the OECS Business Council. The participants

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discussed multiple matters including the importance of the entity in the broader process of regional integration, its structure and governance framework, and a sustainable development strategy. Head of Economic Affairs and Regional Integration at the OECS Commission, Jacqueline EmmanuelFlood, commended the work undertaken by the participants as the first step of the process towards revitalisation.

"The OECS is pleased with the level of participation and the passion demonstrated by the members of the OECS Business Council at this meeting. We had a very successful engagement and we have prepared a plan of action for the next three years, which intends to strengthen this regional body and ensure its viability and sustainability," Emmanuel-Flood said.

In closing, the representatives from the OECS Competitive Business Unit and the ECCB reaffirmed their commitment to play a supporting role in reestablishing the OECS Business Council.

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST SAINT LUCIA SAINT LUCIA HEALTH SYSTEM STRENGTHENING PROJECT Credit No.: IDA Credit # 63160-LC Assignment Title: Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Reference No. 066/CS/HSSP/01-20 Saint Lucia has received financing from the World Bank towards the Health System Strengthening Project, and intends to apply part of the proceeds for consulting services for engagement of a Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist to provide technical leadership and strategic direction for monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities for the project implementation process.

The services are full time and will be based in the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) established within the Department of Health and Wellness.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include Development and implementation of the Monitoring & Evaluation Framework for the project, based on the results framework of the Project Appraisal Document (PAD), the PBF Manual, and the specific goals and objectives of the project.

Preparation of a Performance Monitoring Plan (PMP) to capture project performance and results, including routine service delivery data reporting, baseline and end-line assessments, and all monitoring for process and outcome evaluations Contribute with the IT department of the DOHW and the PBF Coordinator to the design and development of the PBF system, as well as to supervise the data flow pattern for the HSSP, including the Performance-based Financing program, ensuring timely data collection and reporting.

Contribute to the reporting of results to the DOHW and the World Bank, including providing written documentation on M&E activities and indicators results for quarterly progress and annual reports, as appropriate.

The detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) for the assignment can be found at the following website; www.finance.gov.lc , http:// health.govt.lc/notices The Department of Health and Wellness now invites eligible Individual Consultants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Consultants should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services; (Curriculum Vitae, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, clients’ references etc.).

Interested Consultants should have the following requisite qualifications and professional experiences listed below for undertaking the assignment.

QUALIFICATION The successful candidate must have: Academic: Master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, demography, statistics, mathematics or related field.

Experience: Minimum five years of work experience in monitoring and evaluating complex, large, multi-year international health sector development programs in developing countries.

Professional Experience Familiarity with health management information systems and M&E systems.

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Strong technical skills, including ability to process and analyze data using one or more statistical software packages, including at least one of the following: SPSS, Epi-Info, STATA, MS Access.

The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III, paragraphs, 3.14, 3.16, and 3.17 of the World Bank’s “Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers” July 2016, revised November 2017 and August 2018 (“Procurement Regulations”), setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Individual Consultants Selection method set out in the Procurement Regulations.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office 8:00 a.m-4:30 p.m. (0800 to 1630 hours).

Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by March 25, 2020 Project Implementation Unit Department of Health and Wellness Attn: Project Manager 2nd Floor, Sir Stanislaus James Building Waterfront Castries Saint Lucia Tel: 1-758-468-5300 E-mail: piu.mohw@gmail.com

Implementation of the Extended Article 164 Regime of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas

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n January 1, 2020,Saint Lucia implemented the Article 164 regime which is a CARICOMwide initiative aimed at promoting industrial development in the Less Developed Countries (LDCs) of CARICOM. The regime seeks to achieve its objectives through the provision of tariff protection and other support measures which enhances the competitiveness of LDC manufacturers in the production of a specified list of goods.

The Article 164 regime covers 15 product groups across 36 tariff lines and provides tariff protection to products on that list for a specified period of time. More specifically, the regime will be in effect for a period of five years for two products, namely curry powder and pasta, and ten years for the remaining products which include flour, aerated waters, malt, beer, stout, animal feed, oxygen and carbon dioxide, acetylene, candles of paraffin wax, solar water heaters for domestic use, and paint and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers).

The objective of the regime is to increase the participation of LDCs in intra-regional trade, in particular their levels of exports to the region, and thereby increase the level of equity in the distribution of the benefits from the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

As a result of the implementation of the Article 164 regime the prices of goods on the list sourced from the More Developed Countries (MDCs) of CARICOM and from countries outside CARICOM are expected to increase due to the application of rates of duty on imports originating from these sources.

However, for each product on the list, consumers and importers are reminded that they have the option of purchasing or sourcing from a local supplier or from another Less Developed Country (LDC), in which case prices are expected to remain unaffected. This is because products from LDCs continue to enjoy Community origin treatment and attract no Customs Duties.

As part of its efforts to ensure that only the intended outcomes of the regime are realised, the Ministry of Commerce, through its Consumer Affairs Division, will continue to monitor price changes of the products covered under the regime. In addition, the Ministry has agreed to establish a committee/ task force in collaboration with the private sector to further examine all products classified under the tariff lines in the regime with a view to ensuring that only products that are meant to be affected by the regime are impacted.

The Ministry wishes to reiterate its commitment to improving Saint Lucia’s productive capacity in order to increase its level of intra-regional trade in goods and is therefore committed to providing support to the manufacturing sector towards the achievement of this goal. The development of the manufacturing sector is critical to ensuring that we have a more diversified and resilient economy and another important source of foreign currency.

The full list of Article 164 products and corresponding tariff rates has been published in the Saint Lucia Government Gazette via Statutory Instrument numbers 171 and 172 of 2019.

THE STAR

MARCH 14, 2020

LOCAL

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15

CORONAVIRUS File Tax Returns – FIRST STEPS Online in 2020

By Wayne Kublalsingh

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W

hat does the coronavirus want? Its name says it all. It is a virus. It means to go viral, perpetuate its species, proliferate through as many hosts as possible. It is programmed to multiply, contaminate swiftly and preponderantly. No stock of human population, race, ethnicity, geography, name, gender, nationality is immune. It will attack wherever and whenever its vehicle, droplets, spread. It has only one match, ultimately. A vaccine.

Because it multiplies exponentially, the virus will subtly overwhelm. Labs all over the planet are hunting for a vaccine. But this takes time.

It could take six months or as much as a year. Vaccines have to be first tested. This means that human civilization is now in a dangerous waiting game. We have to wait, and all we can do in the meantime is to mitigate, protect, defend, limit the contamination.

This is a virus, not a bacteria.

It may not be defeated with antibiotics, though in cases of extreme septic respiratory conditions they have been used as a last resort.

As with any national emergency, a strict national campaign, protocols, have to be developed, explained and executed. Here are some steps: 1. DON’T PANIC The population needs to stay calm. Stay resolute. The vaccine will come. But we have to take the requisite measures in the meantime. Panic is not an option.

Panic rushing, panic buying, panic messaging only intensifies stress.

Stress impairs our immune systems. It is us versus the virus.

We have to be clear-eyed, calm and composed, as far as possible.

There are the drills. Follow them. Do the wash hand drills.

No handshakes. Avoid tightly crowded spaces. Cough into napkins. Dispose of your used napkins safely. Increase your uptake of fresh fruits, sunlight, your immune-building vitamins.

Travel less. This does not mean that you lock yourself indoors.

Get out and take your vitamin D sunlight, in your yard, on the rooftop, porch, beachfront, open rural spaces, every day.

2. FOOLS DIE No one is invincible or indispensible. Avoid bravado. By shaking hands and disobeying the drills, thinking, “Don’t worry

man, it won’t get here,” or “If I have to dead, I dead,” or “Through the eddoes, through the corn,” or “I is a boss. Them thing don’t touch me,” you are endangering the lives of your families and communities, and ultimately, the nation and species. Substitute handshakes for footsies, or shoes-ies.

3. OUTBREAK It should be a lesson to all that some nations with the most developed healthcare clinics and hospitals, epidemiology and virology programmes, have not been able to prevent outbreaks. Think of an outbreak as a hurricane or tornado. You might be living in the most dilapidated shanty on the island.

The hurricane or tornado passes and does not touch you. Yet it smashes into a high-walled, secure, gated community next to you. The virus has its own pathway. It is unpredictable. An outbreak is a surging attack on a particular community causing the social and health systems to break down, so virulent, unexpected and overwhelming the attack. An outbreak overwhelms the healthcare system and leaves everyone stranded and helpless. We have to prepare for these.

4. EMERGENCY CLINICS The government is advised to not solely rely on routine healthcare systems. These systems cannot cope with outbreaks or pandemics. The prime minister must assemble a Health Emergency Task Force.

One of its tasks must be to establish emergency clinics in each community, separate and apart from hospitals and health clinics which do routine work.

These clinics must be equipped with well-trained professional personnel, personal protective equipment, test kits, masks and decontamination rooms, plus equipment and facilities to take serums and transport them to the established private and public labs, and to diagnose

patients (particularly the elderly) for appropriate home or hospital care. Persons must be trained in emergency care, self-protection, diagnosis and keeping records for tracking of the virus social pathway.

5. FARMERS, VENDORS, FISHERFOLK Government must embark on a funding plan for farmers, vendors and fisherfolk to keep the food supply chain running. The viral threat or the virus itself will be around for a while. A fund should be established to stock local produce, in fruit, vegetables, eggs (Vitamin D), fish and provisions in our open, grocery, minimart, stall and mall markets. This food chain must not be broken, whatever happens to the global merchant trading economy.

6. HOME WORK Measures must be taken for persons who may be able to work from home to do so. Government pay should be guaranteed in such cases. First, steps should be taken to protect small and medium sized businesses with tax breaks and low-interest, government-guaranteed bank loans. Commerce and trade must keep going and not be broken.

If persons are to be at home, they will need to be supplied with water, food, electricity, carbohydrates, proteins, sugar, fats and vitamins.

7. NO PARTY POLITICS Putting party before safety and health will defeat us all.

There is a tendency to mock or scoff at politicians, even when they are correct. Avoid this.

Obey government, and health and safety directives from the Ministry of Health. Don’t politicize your health, or your survival chances. Civil servants, particularly the security forces, must be briefed and prepared for logistical support, transport, communication, engineering services. Each child, adult, public servant must know her/his role and responsibility.

he Inland Revenue Department (IRD) encourages taxpayers to 'Beat the Line, Save on Time, File Online'.

Taxpayers are advised to take this opportunity to circumvent both the cost and hassle associated with filing paper-based income tax returns and use the IRD’s tried and tested web-based digital electronic platform (E-Filing platform) which has been equipped with features to register, file and pay taxes since 2017.

The E-Filing platform caters to corporations, entities and individuals. Returns can be filed for Corporate Income Tax (CIT), Personal Income Tax (PIT), Pay-As-You-Earn (P.A.Y.E.), Contract Tax and Value Added Tax (VAT) in a secure and safe digital environment which is regularly tested by an

authorised third party to ensure that it meets international security standards.

Corporations have the minor additional obligation to write to the Comptroller of Inland Revenue, indicating the name of their tax representative or consultant, who will then be authorised to file tax returns and make payments on behalf of the company.

Individuals can use their smartphones or tablets which access the internet, to both get onto the E-Filing platform and file their returns as these devices have all the features necessary to accomplish the task.

The Comptroller of the Inland Revenue Department, Mrs. Marcia Vité, expects a reduction in paper–based returns during this peak season, as well as an increase in efficiency and accuracy at the IRD as taxpayers utilize the website,

www.e-filing.gov.lc and move to the more convenient digital platform in larger numbers.

She explains the rationale of the E-Filing platform this way: “We are constantly looking for ways to improve the taxpayers’ experience and to modernize the tax filing system to keep pace with the requirements of a globally competitive environment in which the progressive development of information and communication technologies (ICT) is accelerating digital transformation in every sector.”

In the near future the IRD will launch a number of short, simple how-to videos to make it easier for first -time users to get started.

A campaign will be launched later in the year to encourage businesses to sign up and adopt the digital interface.

16 LOCAL

This Girl Is On Fire

Women Physicians and Dentists shine at SLMDA Awards

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oman power' was on show when the Saint Lucia Medical & Dental Association (SLMDA) held its awards of excellence ceremony on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at Sandals Golf Club, Cap Estate.

The date of the event was significant as it was the eve of International Women's Day—an occasion to spotlight the pioneering work of women in the medical profession,

MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

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as well as to energize the dreams and ambitions of the present generation of female practitioners.

Echoes of the ceremony's theme song, 'This Girl Is On Fire'

by Alicia Keys pervaded the halls of the ceremony, as SLMDA President, the evanescent Dr. Merle Clarke, primed the elegantly dressed capacity audience for a night of celebration. She used her opening remarks to motivate

her colleagues. Overall, it was a night in which the SLMDA paused to acknowledge the day-to-day efforts and contributions of physicians and dentists in the medical fraternity, and honoured the best-of-the-best.

Women dominated the competitive categories.

Dr. Tanisha Francis emerged as Intern of the Year; Dr. Cleopatra Altenor-Theobalds was named Junior Physician of the Year;

Dr. Johnoma Giffard captured the award for Most Dedicated Team Member; and Dr. Lisa Charles copped the Most Outstanding Physician award.

Competitive awards captured by men were: Outstanding Dental Practitioner—Dr. Kent Glace; Outstanding Service to the SLMDA—Dr. Leonard Surage; and People's Choice—Dr. Ira Simmons.

The SLMDA ceremony opened with a moment of remembrance of two women physicians: Dr. Erica Gibbs and Dr. Betty Wells who were trailblazers in the

Saint Lucia public health services, though born overseas.

Their challenges in past decades to gain acceptance and establish themselves as professional equals to their male colleagues were recognised.

Four female veteran practitioners were proclaimed 'honorees' of the SLMDA. These were: Dr. Grecilda Gogumala, Dr. Elizabeth Lewis, Dr. Adela Lalsingh and Dr. Asmina Long (Dentist).

A Special Award was bestowed on recently retired Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Merlene Fredericks-James.

A musical serenade of awardees by saxophonist Dylan 'De Sax’ St. Jules was perhaps the most touching moment of a night filled with nostalgia, sentimentality, achievement, contemplation and dreams of the highest excellence in medical practice in Saint Lucia.

The SLMDA ceremony was graced with the presence of women who have distinguished themselves in public service. Among them were current and past ministers of Health, Ms. Mary Isaac and Ms Alvina Reynolds, respectively; former minister of Tourism, Ms Menissa Rambally; former minister of Commerce, Ms. Emma Hippolyte; and minister with responsibility for Culture and Creative Industries, Senator Fortuna Belrose.

LUCELEC CONTINUES INVESTMENT IN AT-RISK YOUTH

H

e was told not to return to the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (CARE) where he had been attending school. Always angry, he was defiant and openly disrespectful. Those choices almost got him kicked out of the Our Boys Matter programme. But then, one more chance was offered through an apprenticeship at a garage. It capitalized on his interest in auto mechanics. The intervention recipe was completed with a mentor he chose; one committed to his success. Today, he’s been offered a job at the garage.

Some troubled teens are getting a second chance at coming through the school system successfully. For them, it’s their first real chance.

It has been one year since St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) joined the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF) in a new approach to education for disadvantaged and troubled youth. Funding from LUCELEC and other corporate partners supported the steering committee that designed the policies and procedures for the programme. It moves away from a traditional provision of books and uniforms, and provides greater opportunity for comprehensive, educational success. To date it has exceeded expectations.

One hundred and ten boys are part of the 2020 programme that started last year with one hundred. They are enrolled in ten schools (the programme began with seven schools). In its first year, all fifth formers graduated with commendable performances and support for payment of CSEC and graduation fees. Twelve boys from that class are currently enrolled at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College. Two of them receive support in components that include mentorship, life skills training, housing and educational assistance.

In this second year, the students at the Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (CARE) will be enrolled in Skills Training. Having graduated from last year’s ADP component, where they were taught skills such as conflict resolution, their courses this year will include job training. In that vein, two graduates from Our Boys Matter are now employed at hotels in jobs sought by the programme.

The enrolled members of Our Boys Matter were chosen by school counsellors based on academic performance and socio-economic background.

To date, LUCELEC has provided $100,000 to the programme. At its formal launch in 2019, an initial $50,000 was provided and in January, a similar donation was made.

LUCELEC is committed to this programme because it provides opportunities its participants may not have otherwise. One year in and participants are thriving with improved school attendance, performance and behaviour.

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THE TREE OF YOGA T

THE FIRST TWO OF THE EIGHT LIMBS

he Astanga—eight limbs of yoga. Astau means eight, and anga means limbs.

The eight limbs of the tree of yoga are a holistic guide for daily living. They first appeared in ancient yoga writings called Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which are 196 aphorisms on the theory and practice of yoga. Patanjali is known as the modern father of yoga.

The eight limbs are a path to follow in the practice of yoga. Every teacher and serious student of yoga should follow this path. In this article we feature the first two of the eight limbs.

They are as follows: 1. YAMAS are the universal moral commandments or ethical disciplines transcending creeds, countries, age and time. The five mentioned by Patanjali are: i. Ahimsa—non violence. This means not only the negative meaning of non-killing or non-violence but also the positive meaning of loving all creation; ii. Satya—truthfulness, honesty and fidelity, to oneself as well as others; iii. Asteya—non stealing; iv. Brahmacharya—non-excess continence, chastity, stage of studentship to learn worldly as well as spiritual knowledge; v. Aparigraha—non-possessiveness, non-greed, freedom from avarice.

The self-awareness gained by practising the Yamas can help one to transform negative energy and cultivate a deep sense of peace.

2. NIYAMAS are the five individual ethical observances which give us self-discipline and inner strength. They are intended to help us build character. i. Sauca—cleanliness and purity. Cleanliness, not only on the outside but also internally with the food that we eat and the thoughts that we have; ii. Santosa—contentment: in who we are, what we do and life in general; iii. Tapas—a burning desire to better ourselves, austerity, devoted discipline; iv. Svadhyaya—study of the self and the spiritual scriptures; v. Isvara pranidhana—surrender of oneself to God. The principles of the Niyamas are concerned with our thinking and behaviour to ourselves.

The Yamas and Niyamas guide us through life, unlocking our ability to discover our higher potential and true self.

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

HEALTH

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18 REGIONAL

MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

UK-US Travel Ban Hangs In Balance Trade Weighs Heavy On PM’s Mind

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espite the growing concerns over the outbreak of the deadly novel coronavirus in the United States and the United Kingdom, the Holness administration has acknowledged that the potential fallout from Jamaica’s major trading partners has swayed the decision to delay a ban.

That both countries have heavy concentrations of Jamaican migrants has also proven to be of consequence, Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton revealed.

Tufton was responding to a question posed by The Gleaner about why the government had delayed the imposition of travel restrictions on two of its main bilateral partners, which have reported an aggregate of more than 1,700 COVID-19 cases.

Travel ties have already been cut with China, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, Iran, Spain, Germany and France.

“There are other important variables that link both countries, so the United States, for example, the reality is that we depend on different types of relationships with that jurisdiction, trade relations, for example. A lot of

imports, whether it’s materials, medicine, food, or otherwise.

Those have to be placed in the consideration as part of the risk assessment, and then, ultimately, a decision is made,” Tufton said.

He was speaking yesterday evening at an emergency press conference at Jamaica House in St Andrew, where the second imported case of COVID-19 linked to the United Kingdom was officially confirmed.

On Tuesday, the first imported case of COVID-19, also linked to the United Kingdom, was confirmed. Tufton said that although the two confirmed cases thus far are linked to the United Kingdom, this was not enough cause to impose a travel ban given the rate of spread in that country.

“The decision around travel restrictions on different countries is based on a number of factors. First of all, the virus is present in over 120 countries, so that reason is not as significant anymore otherwise 120 countries would be banned or restricted. More importantly, it is about the extent to which the virus is present within that jurisdiction, and that is

juxtaposed against the size of the jurisdiction, the country. Very importantly, it is a function of the rate of spread,” he said.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness indicated that the decision not to impose a ban had been thoroughly considered.

“The Cabinet spent an extensive period of time of time discussing travel restrictions relating to the United Kingdom. The government is actively reviewing the extent of travel restrictions related to the United Kingdom. In short order, we should be saying some more on that,” Holness said.

He added: “As you should know, there are several considerations, but the Cabinet spent a long time discussing the issue, and it is something that is of great concern to us now, but we don’t want to act in a premature way. We don’t want to act without fully contemplating all the issues. That’s our obligation to the citizens of the country.”

Since the emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, last December, more than 125,000 people have been infected and approximately 4,600 have died.

SVG Covid-19 Patient Expected to Make Full Recovery

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he first person confirmed as having coronavirus (COVID-19) in St Vincent and the Grenadines is expected to make a full recovery. This is according to the health minister, Luke Browne who said that the patient’s symptoms are mild.

Browne, who was speaking at an emergency press conference held Wednesday night, said test results had come back positive for a Vincentian female who had returned to St Vincent and the Grenadines from the United Kingdom on March 7. “The patient contracted COVID-19 as a result of travel. The ministry is taking all necessary steps to prevent its local transmission in our communities,” he said, noting that the patient had been in isolation since March 10, when she voluntarily reported her symptoms.

Browne also said that “a health team was dispatched to the home of the patient to assess the situation and to ---The Gleaner initiate public health measures and contact tracing to determine all the persons with whom the patient may have been in contact”.

Dr Simone Keizer-Beache, the chief medical officer said the individual was between the ages of 30 and 35, which is outside the high-risk age range

(60 and above) for suffering from serious illness. “This is one of the cases of a mild COVID-19,” Keizer-Beache told media. “We want to assure Vincentians that the individual is safely in an adequate facility in keeping with their condition . . . the person is not in any significant respiratory compromise. The person is comfortable. The person is not short of breath.”

The CMO reiterated the health ministry’s decision to manage the majority of cases by isolating persons in their home.

And she declined to comment on the community where the first patient resides for safety purposes. Keizer-Beache said the ministry will not test every contact that the person has made unless the contact exhibits signs and symptoms of COVID-19. However, she said that the patient had minimal symptoms.

Keizer-Beache further stated that the person had minimal contact with family members and as soon as the ministry was informed of the case, they implemented quarantine measures to ensure that there was no further contact.

Browne, the health minister, said an isolation centre

is in the advanced stages of being set up at Argyle. He added that two public hospitals can be used as isolation facilities and that government was in the process of ordering the necessary equipment to carry out in-country testing of COVID-19.

Members of the public are being urged to adhere to standard measures to prevent the spread of infections. “Wash your hands regularly. Avoid touching your face, nose and mouth with your hands. That is how the virus is spread,” Browne said. The health minister also advised persons to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness (coughing and sneezing) by keeping a distance of at least three to six feet. Non-essential travel is discouraged. Persons are being asked to frequently clean hands using soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub if hands are not visibly dirty. Additionally, persons should cough or sneeze into their elbow or tissue. And throw away tissue afterwards and wash hands.

Persons are also asked to share travel history with a healthcare provider.

As at March 11, SVG had one person in isolation and three persons in quarantine.

THE FUNNIES!

--Searchlight

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WHO declares novel coronavirus outbreak a pandemic

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he World Health Organization on Wednesday declared the novel coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. There are 118,000 cases, more than 4,000 deaths, the agency said, and the virus has found a foothold on every continent except for Antarctica.

“We have never before seen a pandemic sparked by a coronavirus. And we have never before seen a pandemic that can be controlled at the same time,” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Wednesday.

“Describing the situation as a pandemic does not change WHO’s assessment of the threat posed by this coronavirus. It doesn’t change what WHO is doing, and it doesn’t change what countries should do.”

If countries detect, test, treat, isolate, trace and mobilize their people in the response, those with a handful of novel coronavirus cases can prevent those cases becoming clusters, and those clusters becoming community transmission, Ghebreyesus said.

“Several countries have demonstrated that this virus can be suppressed and controlled,” Ghebreyesus said. A pandemic is defined as the “worldwide spread” of a new disease.

Whereas, an outbreak is the

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onald Trump has suspended all flights from mainland Europe to the US for 30 days following the spread of coronavirus cases across the continent. The US president said the sanctions will come into effect from midnight on Friday, Eastern Standard Time—but will not apply to flights from the UK. He blamed the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the outbreak of the virus and said US clusters were “seeded” by European travellers.

Mr Trump said: “We made a lifesaving move with early action on China. Now we must take the same action with Europe.” The president said the US would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier. A Homeland Security spokesman said: “These countries, known as the Schengen Area, include: Austria, Belgium, Czech

Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.”

At one point in the address he said the ban would also apply to goods and cargo, but the White House later clarified that only people were affected. The European Union has condemned Mr Trump’s move, criticising a “unilateral decision” taken “without consultation”.

EU Council president Charles Michel and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said in a joint statement that the coronavirus pandemic is a “global crisis, not limited to any continent and it requires co-operation rather than unilateral action”.

“The European Union disapproves of the fact that the US decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation,” they said. Mr Trump also announced the US will defer tax payments for some individuals and businesses for three months to lessen the impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak.

He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm. “This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”

On Thursday morning, stock markets reacted to Mr Trump’s announcement with panic, setting them up for another day of heavy losses.

--Skynews

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Chinese diplomat promotes conspiracy theory that US military brought coronavirus to Wuhan

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prominent Chinese official has promoted a conspiracy theory that the United States military could have brought the novel coronavirus to China—and it did not originate in the city of Wuhan, as thought.

Posting to his more than 300,000 followers on Twitter, Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian republished a video of Robert Redfield, the Director for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, addressing a US Congressional Committee on March 11.

In the clip, Redfield said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health some influenza deaths in the US Organization’s Director-General, on Wednesday. were later identified as cases He called for countries to help protect one of Covid-19, the disease caused another against a common threat. by the novel coronavirus.

Redfield didn’t say when occurrence of disease cases The last pandemic reported those people had died or over in excess of what’s normally in the world was the H1N1 flu what time period, but Zhao expected and an epidemic is pandemic in 2009, which killed pointed to his remarks in more than a normal number hundreds of thousands globally. support of a growing conspiracy cases of an illness, specific “WHO has been assessing theory that the coronavirus did health-related behavior or this outbreak around the clock not originate in Hubei province other health-related events and we are deeply concerned in central China. He did not in a community or region, both by the alarming levels of offer any further evidence for according to the World Health spread and severity, and by the the claim.

Organization. alarming levels of inaction,” “CDC was caught on In January, the WHO Ghebreyesus said of the novel the spot. When did patient declared the novel coronavirus coronavirus pandemic. zero begin in US? How many outbreak a public health “We cannot say this loudly emergency of international enough, or clearly enough, or concern. CNN announced on often enough: All countries can Monday that it is using the still change the course of this term pandemic to describe the pandemic.” current coronavirus outbreak.

--CNN

Coronavirus: Donald Trump bans all travel from mainland Europe to US for 30 days

INTERNATIONAL

people are infected? What are the names of the hospitals?

It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation!” the Foreign Ministry official said.

Hundreds of athletes from the US military were in Wuhan for the Military World Games in October 2019.

On Friday, Zhao’s fellow Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said there were “varied opinions” on the origin of the virus in the international community.

“China always considers this a scientific question, which should be addressed in a scientific and professional manner,” he said, avoiding questions on whether Zhao’s tweet represented the Chinese government’s official position.

The first reported cases of the virus were in Wuhan, and since then the city has had more infections and deaths than anywhere in the world.

Speaking in his official capacity at a press conference in Beijing on March 4, Zhao told reporters that “no conclusion

has been reached yet on the origin of the virus”—and Chinese scientists were still tracing where it came from.

On February 27, renowned Chinese infectious disease expert Zhong Nanshan also questioned where the coronavirus had come from.

“The infection was first spotted in China but the virus may not have originated in China,” Zhong said at a press conference.

On Thursday, Hua Chunying, Zhao’s boss who heads the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Department of Information, tweeted a link to Redfield’s testimony, saying it was “absolutely wrong and inappropriate to call this the Chinese coronavirus.”

However, Geng declared, “We don’t hope to see anyone making an issue out of this to stigmatize other countries.

With COVID-19 developing into a pandemic, the world should come together to fight it instead of leveling accusations and attacks against each other, which is not constructive at all.”

--CNN

20 SPORTS

MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

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Dogs had their day at Independence Show in Vieux Fort

Never mind his bite, this Rottweiler could lick you to death.

The Executive of the St Lucia Kennel Club (left to right): Registrar, Byron Fernelon; President, Colvis Samuels; Vice President, Eugene Gabriel; Public Relations Officer, Terroll Compton; Treasurer, Cletus St Marie; Floor Member, Gregory Ragoonanan.

By David R Pascal

E

very dog has his day! That was certainly the case when man’s best friend was the centre of attention on Sunday afternoon when the St. Lucia Kennel Club, founded in 2002, staged the Independence Dog Show and Family Day at the Recreational Park in Vieux Fort.

The event was designed to showcase dogs through a parade of the animals, with obedience and protection demonstrations. It also served as a means of sensitizing people about the role and function of the Club and to encourage the proper breeding, care and maintenance of dogs.

Side attractions included a bouncy castle, music, food bar, drink bar, live interviews and live streaming of the event through Facebook and Instagram.

About 20 dogs of various sizes, descriptions and colours were on show including Dobermans, Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Jack Russells and other small breeds. They were displayed in a festive, family atmosphere.

Patrons had the opportunity to observe some of the breeds of dogs now found in Saint Lucia and were treated to demonstrations of animals protecting their owners and property, as well as showing their ability to pay attention and obey their owners/handlers.

President of the St. Lucia Kennel Club, Colvis Samuels said: “Today for us is big because it is our first event for this year. We have a socialization and expansion and exhibition going on here at the Recreational Park in Vieux Fort.

We chose Vieux Fort because we see it as a new frontier and is part of our plan to expand and extend the St. Lucia Kennel Club. We are involved in the care and maintenance of dogs

The Pit Bull was the most popular breed at the Dog Show.

and we promote everything related to that.”

Samuels stressed the importance of care and maintenance. “If you don’t care for your dogs properly, they are likely to cause problems. We want to dispel the notion that it’s dogs causing the problems, as opposed to people who do not breed and take care of their animals as well as they should.”

To my surprise, the most popular breed at the Independence Dog Show is the most feared: the Pit Bull!

Samuels told me that even though the Pit Bull gets a bad rap, it was well represented, not only at the dog show, but all over Saint Lucia. Despite the fact the Pit Bull has a bad reputation (earned or otherwise), the dogs were obedient throughout the afternoon. On a few occasions, I saw other dog owners petting them gently without any retaliation.

While the crowd took pleasure watching the proud

Gregory Ragoonanan fends off a fierce attack during a demonstration.

Sandals Under-19 Tournament Announcement

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he Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA), along with Sandals, will host a press conference ahead of the Sandals U-19 Tournament. It will take place tomorrow, Sunday March 15, at Mindoo Phillip Park.

Invited guests include President of the SLNCA, Carol Henry alongside the regional PR Manager of Sandals, Sunil Ramdeen. There will also be local team captains and other representatives of participating teams.

Following the press conference there will be action on the playing field with a match between President’s XI and Sandals XI in a T10 encounter.

Sports world in shock as NBA suspends its season after Rudy Gobert tests positive for coronavirus This pooch came dressed to win and, as a result, received the first place prize.

owners parade their canines, by far the highlight of the afternoon was a display of

St Rose Jacobie with his obedient Doberman Pinscher.

Protection Aggression, with executive club member Gregory Ragoonanan being the so-

Not a man’s but a woman’s best friend!

T

he global threat of coronavirus got a lot more real for the sports world on Wednesday when Utah Jazz centre Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19, which subsequently led to the NBA suspending its entire season.

The move is unprecedented, yet also warranted as the highly infectious disease keeps spreading and threatening lives.

Still, the majority of sports fans, media and players were caught off guard by a moment that will define the league and everything around it. called “guinea pig”. Wearing a protective suit from neck to toe, he bravely played the role of intruder while trying to ward off a well-trained service dog, who was clearly in attack mode. He survived the ordeal with flying colours.

What’s next for the St. Lucia Kennel Club? There are similar dog shows planned for June and November this year; then, in December, there is a Caribbean Dog Show which Samuels referred to as the first in the region.

THE STAR

MARCH 14, 2020

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21

Sandals still serving Tigers InFlow Tennis Academy

Sandals Halcyon officials and Director of Tigers InFlow Tennis Academy Sirsean Arlain (extreme left) along with youngsters in this year’s programme.

By David R Pascal

F

or six years it has been a wonderful initiative.

I think the impact of it has been underestimated and undervalued here but, thanks to the Sandals Foundation and Sandals Resorts, it has continued. We have introduced . . . if you count this year, we will probably have introduced about 4,000 children to tennis

over the past six years.”

The opening paragraph came courtesy of Director of Tigers InFlow Tennis Academy, Sirsean Arlain at recent press conference/cheque presentation at Sandals Halcyon. In attendance were Sandals Halcyon General Manager, Christopher Elliott; PRO, Rhonda Giraudy; Tennis Pro, Chester Dupres; and students associated with the tennis programme.

With assistance from the

Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, Arlain hopes to expand the programme, not only in the north, but through tournaments in the south. With that in mind, he feels there could be as many as 1,000 children on the court this year through the programme.

Arlain, who is a former number one-ranked player here and a USA scholarship recipient, views his job (if you can call it that) as his love and passion.

He said: “While most people

see it as a job, I just see it as another day helping kids. As you can see in the background, you put a racquet and ball in a child’s hand, they’re having fun.

That’s the basis to get them into the sport and into more structured programming.”

Arlain added: “We are giving kids a life foundation through the sport of tennis, and the Sandals Foundation is enabling us to do so.”

Speaking on behalf of Sandals, which has sponsored

General Manager of Sandals Halcyon, Christopher Elliott (right) in a friendly handshake with Director of Tigers InFlow Tennis Academy, Sirsean Arlain.

the Academy for six years, Elliott said: “Today we have this press conference to show our additional support, where we are pledging $30,000 to the Tiger InFlow Academy for the development of tennis skills for

kids who normally would not have the opportunity to do that.

That is one of our initiatives as part of the Sandals Foundation, to develop sports among young people in Saint Lucia and right across the Caribbean.”

St Lucia Aquatics Federation Presents Carifta Swim Team

T

eam Saint Lucia is in the preparation stages as it gets set to compete at the 35th Carifta Swimming Championship from April 11 to 15 in Bridgetown, Barbados. The competition will be held at the Barbados Aquatic Centre.

The nations competing in this year’s championship are: Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Aruba, Haiti, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Barbados, Martinique, Bermuda, Saint Lucia, the British Virgin Islands, St Maarten, the Cayman Islands, St Martin, Curacao, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Suriname, French Guiana, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Turks and Caicos, Guadeloupe and the US Virgin Islands.

Swimmers holding a minimum of three Double AA

Motivational Standard Times have all qualified to represent Saint Lucia.

The Saint Lucia Aquatics Federation (SLAF) is excited to announce the names of the sea lions, all set to take on the challenge and return home in celebration. Team St Lucia consists of the following swimmers in the various age groups: 11-12, Antoine Destang (Sharks), Karic Charles and Ethan Hazell (Lightning Aquatics), Tristan Dorville and Therron Herelle (Seajays Swim Club); 13–14 Naima Hazell (Lightning Aquatics), Naekeisha Louis (Lightning Aquatics), D’Andre Blanchard (Seajays Swim Club); 15-17 Mikaili Charlemagne (Sharks Swim Club), Jayhan Odlum Smith (Seajays Swim Club), Terrel Monplaisir (Seajays Swim Club) and Jayhan Odlum Smith.

The Independence Swim Meet was used as a qualifier for the Carifta Swimming Championships.

With much debate, the SLAF made an executive decision to include one additional swimmer with the fastest time to

compete in the female 13-14 age group category, allowing this particular age group to compete in the relay swim races.

According to SLAF President, Eddie Hazell: “This executive is focused on the development and enhancement of swimming. We were

faced with a decision of desiring to present a relay team in the 13–14-year-old age group category and felt it best to select the next fastest swimmer to complete the team, specifically for the relay races. We welcome Courtney Paul to the team and I look forward to the swimmers returning home with great results.”

Over the past years swimmers from Saint Lucia have been consistent, returning to our shores with medals. In 2015, swimmers returned with four, plus three relay medals; in 2016, two; in 2017, four; in 2018, four; and in 2019, two.

With the determination of the selected team, SLAF is confident that this year’s performance will be one to make all proud.

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SPORTS

St Lucia Zouks Introduces Head Coach Andrew Flower

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PH Dream Cricket Private Limited recently announced its purchase of the Caribbean Premier League franchise, St Lucia Zouks. The franchise owner is known for its track record of achievements on and off the field of major events, with cricket at the forefront. And, as the clock ticks, plans are well on the way to ensuring that this year will be a celebratory one.

St Lucia Zouks is pleased to introduce to its fans the new head coach, for 2020, Andrew Flower. A British-Zimbabwean cricketer, he captained the Zimbabwe national cricket team and was the wicket-keeper for over ten years. He is known as the finest batsman the country produced.

Flower worked as assistant coach for the England Cricket team prior to becoming head coach in 2009. During his stint, England won the Ashes series home and away, won the T20 World Cup in 2010 and were ranked as the number 1 Test side in the world in 2011.

The year 2011 continued to be a great year for Flower. He was awarded Coach of the Year

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MARCH 14, 2020 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

Youth Sailors compete at Semaine Nautique Sailing Regatta

T

he St. Lucia Yacht Club, located on Reduit Beach, has had a Youth Sailing Programme for several years, allowing many people around the island to learn to sail through the guidance of experienced sailors.

During February, amidst all the Independence celebrations, the Yacht Club hosted a series of races on Sunday afternoons for the youth sailors. The finalists of the series were awarded on Sunday, February 16. That’s when Commodore of the St Lucia Yacht Club, Peter Lang, named the youth sailors who would represent the Club, and by extension Saint Lucia, at Schoelcher Sailing Week.

The junior team, consisting St. Lucia Zouks new head coach, Andrew Flower. of Sebastian Ambler, Brianna at the BBC Sports Personality of the Caribbean Premier League Batrick and Brice Batrick, the Year Awards and appointed and would love to be the coach accompanied by Team OBE for services to sport. More associated with the team to Manager David Batrick, left for recently, he led the pathway bring victory home to the fans in Schoelcher on February 20. programme for the England Saint Lucia.”

The Semaine Nautique Int. de Cricket Board and coached in Also weighing in on Flower’s Schoelcher took place February both T10 and T20 franchise appointment, CEO of Kings XI 21-25, providing this junior leagues.

Punjab, Satish Menon, shared team with exciting experience Speaking about his most his thoughts: “I am delighted of racing with regional and recent appointment as head to have someone of the calibre coach for St Lucia Zouks, Flower and eminence of Andy Flower. said: “I am excited to lead and We sure look forward to a great coach this team. I am a fan of season ahead.”

St Lucia Football Association news

wo matches were played on Sunday, March 8 in the Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) Inc. second division championship at the Football Technical Facility in Grande Riviere, Dennery.

Playing the first of the double header on the synthetic playing field, Victory Eagles overcame a 1–0 deficit to defeat B1 FC 3–1. Lamar George opened the scoring for B1 FC with a goal in the 44th minute, only for Shawn Alfred to equalize on the brink of half time. Following the resumption, Victory Eagles shot ahead with a goal by Ricardo Miller in the 53rd minute. Miller would further seal the initiative with his second goal in the 88th minute, giving Victory Eagles a well-deserved 3–1 victory.

In the second game, New Generations bounced back from their first-round defeat to get past Togetherness Youth 4–0. Their goals came from Raheem Lionel with a brace in the 38th and 41st minutes, and from Dillan Edward and Lee Edward in the 67th and 69th minutes respectively.

The SLFA deeply regrets the passing of one of its beloved Football League Presidents, Andre Charlery, affectionately known as “Ryder”, who died in a tragic motorcycle accident. President of the SLFA Inc., Lyndon Cooper, his executive committee, the staff of the SLFA and member leagues send condolences to his family, the Micoud Football League, the Saint Lucia Fire Service and the community of Micoud.

Charlery was an active member of the SLFA Inc. and did all in his power to cause his league to

The late Andre “Ryder” Charlery.

move forward in a positive fashion. He was a community gem and a national hero. Charlery was involved in football in Micoud all of his life and will be missed by his community, the SLFA Inc. and its 19 member national football leagues. May he rest in everlasting peace.

Sailing Coach Adonai Modeste.

international youth sailors.

Commodore Lang was encouraged by the performance of these young sailors. He said: “The team has done quite well and this event helps them prepare for the St. Lucia Yacht Club’s Dinghy Championships which will be held in Rodney Bay May 29-31 this year.”

He added: “We are very happy with the results, as the team learns lots more about sailing when they compete. This year there were ten sailors from France who made the Schoelcher 2020 event even more memorable.”

During his presentation, Commodore Lang announced the handover from long-time sailing coach Frederic Sweeney to Adonai Modeste. Modeste received his start in training through the Yacht Club programme and was recently a member of the ARC Youth Team that sailed in the 2019 ARC Rally.

Up next for the Youth Sailing Programme at St. Lucia Yacht Club: the Easter Race Series—six race days with three races each for Optimist, Optimist Benjamin, and Laser 4.7 classes. These started on Sunday, March 8 and continue every other Sunday.

Each race day in the series will consist of three races. On May 3, the last day of the racing series, there will be a prize-giving ceremony at the Yacht Club.

Massy United Insurance Quarter-final Results and Scores

The 2020 Massy United Insurance Schools Cricket Tournament, organised by the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, continued on Monday with quarter-final action.

At Balata Playing Field, the St Lucia Sports Academy earned a hard-fought 32-run victory over St Mary’s College.

St Lucia Sports Academy, batting first, were dismissed for 136 in 26.5 overs with Stephen Dupres making 22, Royce Paul 18, Kevin Gassie 17, Danio Caroo 16 and Tarrique Edward and Noel Leo 11 each.

The most successful bowlers of St Mary’s College, Amari Venner bagged five for 43 and Ackeem Auguste two for 21.

In reply, St Mary’s College were bowled out for 104 in 23 overs, with Ackeem Auguste making 35, Ryan Goodman 32 and Stephen Abraham 12.

Bowling for the Sports Academy, Kevin Gassie claimed four for 22 , Royce Paul three for 18 and Tarrique Edward two for 35 .

At La Ressource Playing Field in Mabouya Valley, Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary

School registered a comfortable 137-run victory over Micoud Secondary School.

Leon Hess Comprehensive, batting first, made 199 all out in 32.5 overs, with Jaden Elibox on 71, Jewell Simon on 42, Udell Preville on 24 and Lee John on 15, their leading scorers.

Bowling for Micoud Secondary, Dichege Henry claimed four for 58, Marklin Estaphane three for 48 and Cody Lesmond two for 25.

In reply, Micoud Secondary were bowled out for 62 in 15.4 overs, with Cody Lesmond making 10, the only batsman to reach double figures.

Bowling for Leon Hess Comprehensive, Jayden Elibox picked up four for 16, Keygan Arnold two for six and Udelle Preville two for 14.

At Gros Islet Playing Field, Castries Comprehensive Secondary School completed a comfortable 149-run victory over Corinth Secondary.

Castries Comprehensive, batting first, reached 227 for six in their allotted 40 overs, with McKenny Clarke making 56, J’dell Louis 51 and Joshua Cepal 47.

Bowling for Corinth

Secondary, Tyson St Juste dismissed two for 23, and Judah Stapleton took two for 27.

In reply, Corinth Secondary were bowled out for 78 in 19.2 overs, with Kenrick James making 14.

Bowling for Castries Comprehensive, Donovan Phillip dismissed three batters while McKenny Clarke took two for 10.

At he Philip Marcelin Grounds in Vieux Fort, Sir Arthur Lewis Community College defeated Soufriere Comprehensive by six wickets.

Soufriere Comprehensive, batting first, were dismissed for 106 in 14.3 overs, with Stephan Theophane and Tyler Desir contributing 17 each.

Bowling for SALCC, Simeon Gerson had an impressive four for 18, backed up by Lee Solomon's four for 20.

In response, SALCC attained victory, finishing on 107 for four in 15 overs, with Lee Solomon leading the way with 60 and Kervel Prospare 20 not out.

The match-ups and details for the semi-finals will be announced soon.

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