Undead Jack Grynberg Wins Appeal

SATURDAY, MAY 04, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

$2.00

Undead Jack Grynberg

Wins Appeal

CASE BACK ON TRACK! Even before the underlying dispute has been heard, local taxpayers have paid close to $4 million in defence and other fees related to Jack Grynberg’s US$500 million lawsuit.

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02 LOCAL

Financial Action Task Force Recommendation 15: New Technologies

REFLECTIONS

d

(An over-my-shoulder look at life) Living under the State

By Michael Walker

I

t was way back in 1969, I think, that this particular episode took place. I had been working in Sweden for about four years by then, had married and was the father of two children, first a girl, then a boy. I had started writing language textbooks that had become instantaneously popular and promised to provide us with a stable, considerable income for many years to come.

Every day was an inspiration. The air was full of heady, intoxicating success. Sweden, because of its policy of neutrality between the nations that belonged to NATO or the Warsaw Pact, was ideally placed to trade with both sides. In addition, our education system was the envy of the whole world, so it was quite understandable that countries in both camps turned to us for help and advice.

For almost a decade Lars and I conducted in-service training courses for teachers in several countries behind the Iron Curtain each summer.

In those days, Poland was still a Communist dictatorship. This was long before Lech Walesa, the electrician turned tradeunion activist, co-founded the Soviet Bloc’s first independent trade union called Solidarity.

He went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983 before becoming President of Poland from 1990 to 1995. When we knew him he was being persecuted and jailed for his activities at the shipyard in Gdansk. Way back then there was no whiff of the corruption that later marred his final days as a national leader. I guess it’s true, as they say, that power corrupts even the best of us.

Poland, in Central Europe, has a population of around 40 million people.

Warsaw is its capital. Despite its Communist history, Poland is ostensibly one of the most religious countries in Europe—88 % of people belong to the Catholic Church. Poland is the motherland of Pope John Paul II. Famous Poles include Frederic Chopin in classical music, Joseph Conrad in literature, Roman Polanski in film making and Madame Curie in physics and chemistry. Polish belongs to the West Slavic language group and is quite different from other western European languages.

Our official interpreter for the workshop this particular year was called Agnieszka, a Polish variant of Agnes from the Greek, meaning "sacred, chaste". Saint Agnes is the patron saint of chastity, engaged couples and virgins, none of which was appropriate for this particular lady. We called her, fondly, ‘our spy’ because that was what she was. It

MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

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was her task to keep check on us and make sure that we did not engage in any subversive activities, which was somewhat ironic as she was the one who informed us that she was going to flee the country with us after the workshop.

Naturally, we were a little sceptical and taken aback at this news. Gradually, through the years, we had begun to help people escape their homelands and we were quite suspicious that Agnieszka was setting a trap for us. Our workshop was being held in Łód,ź almost in the centre of the country. Łódźis pronounced "woodge"—well almost anyway—and Agnieszka intended to travel with us in Lars’s car and on the ferry back to Sweden. Somehow, being a State Security employee, she had managed to get an exit visa for a two-week vacation; lord knows how!

We decided to risk it but became quite alarmed when we went to pick her up from her parents’ small apartment and saw the gigantic trunk full of all her belongings on the pavement outside. We had no idea how we would get it into the car. Our disquiet grew even more when a total stranger to us, but someone who apparently knew Agnieszka, sidled up and pointedly told her that if she took such a big trunk they would never let her out of the country. She finally left with us clutching a small suitcase with enough clothes for two weeks.

I sat in the back of the car with her. Lars drove. It was dark by the time we arrived at the ferry station. The line of cars was long. The checks were rigorous. The closer the armed guards came with their flashlights, the more Agnieszka began to panic. She was shaking violently. “Put your hand inside my jacket,” she whispered. “Fondle my breast. Let the guard see what you are doing. Kiss me!” I did as I was told while Agnieszka’s fingers roamed around my nether regions. The soldier rapped on the window and Lars handed him all our papers, but the young border guard seemed more interested in following our frenetic fondling in the back seat. “Have a good night,” he said as he poked me gently with his weapon. Even on the ferry Agnieszka was still paranoid; it was a Polish ship and she was afraid the security services would arrest her on the nine-hour trip and force her to return.

I shared a cabin with her while Lars slept on a bench outside. But in the end Agnieszka had the last laugh on us. Her Polish boyfriend, who had fled some years before, was waiting for her after immigration. They had planned her escape for months, waiting for the right opportunity. They later married, had kids and became Swedish citizens. Agnieszka became a dentist. And that was that!

in mitigating areas of risks beforehand.

Chambers and the National

It is recommended that Anti-Money Laundering in identifying the money Oversight Committee laundering/ terrorist financing (NAMLOC) risk associated with new technologies, a risk-based approach is used. A risk-based he development and approach stipulates that where offering of new products the money laundering or are central to the survival terrorist financing risks are , of financial institutions and then commensurate mitigation designated non-financial measures must be taken to businesses and professions prevent any abuse. Conversely, (DNFBPs). when the money laundering/

In Recommendation 15 terrorist financing risks are low, of the Financial Action Task Force Forty Recommendations, simplified counter-measures can be instituted. financial institutions and

The Money Laundering DNFBPs (attorneys, realtors, (Prevention) Act calls upon jewellers, car dealers etc.) financial institutions and are required to assess the DNFBPs to “have policies money laundering and terrorist in place and take measures financing risks associated to prevent the misuse with the development of new products and business practices of technology for money and their delivery mechanisms. laundering. The level of verification used should This is also useful when new be appropriate to the risk or developing technologies associated with the particular are used for new or existing product or service”. products. It is advised that this

Further, financial assessment is done before institutions are called upon to such products or services are report to a Board of Directors at launched as this will assist

By the Attorney General’s

T

least quarterly. This report is to include a money laundering risk assessment of any new product or service and their distribution channels.

In today’s modernized financial space, virtual currency and internet banking are examples of new technologies; however, many other examples abound.

During the 4th Round Mutual Evaluation, this Recommendation will be tested by the assessors from the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) for both compliance and effectiveness.

The on-site visit scheduled for September 16-27, 2019 will see financial institutions being engaged by the assessors to demonstrate the measures utilized to prevent new technologies from being abused.

Information on this and the other recommendations can be found on the CFATF website at www.cfatf-gafic. org. Also available from this site is a Guidance Note on Virtual Currencies.

The STAR’s 'To Read' list:

M

ay is Reading Awareness Month and this year’s theme is “The Joy of Reading”. The STAR’s editorial department has compiled a list of some of our favourite books, ones we believe are riveting and memorable. We urge you to share our joy of reading—pick a few titles that are new to you and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of the written word!

We would be interested to know what you think about our top picks, and to learn about our readers' own favourite books. Send an email to: news@stluciastar.com 1. The Grenada Revolution: Reflections and Lessons

by Wendy C. Grenade Grenade is a political scientist and this 2016 volume presents her in-depth research of the Grenadian Revolution and its part in transforming Caribbean politics.

2. Lapses & Infelicities

by Rick Wayne

All the answers to questions In this poetry collection, the about Saint Lucian politicians lie author flows from line to verse, in these pages. The author calls coming to terms with his age. it the island’s true history.

7. Leaves in the River 3. To Kill a Mockingbird

by Earl Long

by Harper Lee This twist on Saint Lucian culture The warm-hearted Atticus Finch has more real-life stories than is immortalized in this 1960s many locals might want to admit, novel, a modern classic that but the author tells the story deals with racial inequality at regardless, in the rawest way a time when many refused to possible. acknowledge the issue.

8. Wuthering Heights 4. Wide Sargasso Sea

by Emily Bronte

by Jean Rhys A classic tale of romance that has This novel maintains themes yet to be rivalled by worthy prose, of racism and post-colonial style or characters. struggles for West Indian blacks, in the author’s own take of 9. Beloved Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre.

by Toni Morrison A difficult story to plough through 5. Americanah as the brutalities of American

by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie slavery are exposed by a postA young African woman goes colonial author. to America but is unexpectedly forced to try to understand what 10. The Picture of Dorian Grey it means to be black. There’s

by Oscar Wilde also a surprising mention of Intense imagery and the beauty Derek Walcott. of art are weaved all through its pages, but the book’s most 6. What the Twilight Says haunting picture is the one tested

by Derek Walcott through life’s corruption.

THE STAR

MAY 04, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

LOCAL

03

The Quest to Make Saint Lucians Readers of Books

C

ynthia McFarlane has been the director of Library Services in Saint Lucia since 2014. From her office on the Castries Central Library’s top floor she explained to this reporter the National Association of Libraries and Information Professionals (NALIP) activities for this year’s Reading Awareness Month.

The event most emphasized by her was yesterday’s Writing and Publishing Workshop, which she viewed as an initiative to change the Saint Lucian culture as it relates to reading and writing. McFarlane said: “We want people to develop an appreciation for writing; to sharpen their writing skills and get into the habit of sharing information. The library believes information is important and we need information in selfdevelopment and the development of societies.”

Of course, McFarlane believes that the art and skill of writing is grossly under-appreciated in Saint Lucia. “We don’t have many books by local authors. We just have a few on the island and our collection would grow if we had more people interested in writing,” she lamented.

Additionally: “I feel that more people should pursue a career in writing or a career in journalism. I don’t think enough Saint Lucians go in that direction and probably the reason is that they do not appreciate writing.” She said citizens should prioritize acquiring the skills required for sharing information. While McFarlane acknowledges that Saint Lucia “is not a reading society”, she says public libraries still have a steady influx of patrons. However, the adult population seems more inclined to use only a few of the libraries’ services. “According to library statistics, more children read books than do the adults,” she said. “The adults come to the library but only to study; they come to use the computer and engage in social media but they hardly take reading materials out. They have a preference for electronic formats.”

McFarlane says librarians have recognized the challenge and so, to encourage more reading among the adult population, they have adopted a new strategy of service. “We would want to see a lot more persons patronizing so we’re going to computerize our functions, collections and services. We are using a library management system that will allow easy access to our services and materials, even our catalogue, through their device.”

The libraries are in the transitioning phase but a catalogue of titles available from public libraries is already accessible on the website slupl.edu.lc.

As McFarlane tells it, public libraries are doing the best they can to operate with the budget provided by government. As for workshops, programmes and expanding services, most of that is achieved through outsourced funding.

McFarlane understands the government’s responsibility to prioritize spending and investment, but she said, “You cannot measure returns just in terms of money. You have to look at what are the social effects and so on. More can be done. The government should realize that the library is a very important resource for the country.

Our main product is information.”

With activities such as the Writing and Publishing Workshop, McFarlane hopes more Saint

Lucians will focus on the importance of reading and utilize all the libraries' services.

---Claudia Eleibox McDowell

Libraries islandwide have activities for this year’s reading month but Saint Lucians are encouraged to use all public library services throughout the year.

04 local

New Man Determined to Raise Senate Bar

O

n Tuesday, Saint Lucia’s senate welcomed its newest member with the swearing in of Mr. Francisco Jn Pierre. No stranger to local politics, he contested the last elections as the United Workers Party candidate for Laborie, albeit unsuccessfully. Jn Pierre replaced Dr. Ubaldus Raymond whose tenure, in the wake of controversy, ended on Monday with his resignation.

Dr. Raymond also served as the leader of government business in the senate.

Before getting down to regular business,Tuesday’s sitting opened with an acknowledgement of the resignation, and the swearing in of the new man. “It is my hope that your tenure here will be fruitful,” said the senate president after JnPierre had taken the oath. “Senator, I am sure your sojourn here with us will be enjoyable

Senator Francisco Jn Pierre taking his oath of allegiance at Tuesday’s sitting.

and productive, and we look forward to your contributions to the debates throughout the sessions.”

In his own brief contribution to the debate, Jn Pierre thanked the prime

minister for the opportunity to serve, and pledged his support for the budget.

He later told the STAR: “The fact is, I offered myself for public service. Being unsuccessful at the elections,

whatever I can do with regards to the people of Saint Lucia and my government, I will do.

When I was asked by the prime minister to serve, I had no objection.”

Jn Pierre is hopeful that he can “raise the bar”. He expressed concern about the behaviour of members of both houses, the name calling in particular. “I would love to see things done in accordance with the Standing Rules and Orders,” he added. “There is no need to create animosity.”

In the 2016 general elections, current MP for Laborie Alva Baptiste defeated Jn Pierre by 626 votes. Asked if he intended to risk being bitten twice, he said: “There is always a process when it comes to choosing election candidates.

Besides, this is a matter for the people of Laborie to decide.”

---Joshua St. Aimee

Taiwan’s Advances in Digital Healthcare

T

his year marks the 24th anniversary of Taiwan’s implementation of universal health coverage.

Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) covers the full spectrum of essential health services, from prevention and treatment to rehabilitation and palliative care.

In the 1960s, Taiwan’s progressive health sector began the process of incorporating labourers, farmers and government employees into the health insurance system. It is now widely regarded as one of the best in the world. The NHI ranked 14th in the 2017 Global Access to Healthcare Index of The Economist, and ninth in the 2018 Health Care Efficiency Index of Bloomberg Finance.

The success of Taiwan’s NHI can be attributed to several key factors. First, it adopted a single-payer model with contributions from individuals, employers and the government.

A supplementary premium is also charged based on payers’ income levels. Second, to control medical expenses, a budget payment system was adopted to set caps on healthcare costs paid by the government. Under these caps, Taiwan’s medical expenses accounted for only 6.4 per cent of GDP in 2017, lower than the OECD average. In the same year, the NHI’s administrative costs were kept under 1 per cent of its total budget, and the public satisfaction rate was 86 per cent. Third, the

MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

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Minister Chen Shih-Chung aims to promote Taiwan’s healthcare assistance to other countries, if allowed to participate in WHO’s decision making.

NHI’s integrated preventive health care services and pay for performance programmes have ensured a high quality of healthcare and encouraged continued improvement of health standards. Fourth, to reduce health inequalities, premium subsidies are provided to disadvantaged groups such as low-income households and the unemployed.

The provision of preventive and primary healthcare is the most cost-efficient approach to achieving universal health coverage. Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare has developed tools utilizing artificial intelligence and cloud computing to access the massive databases it has built over the past 24 years.

For instance, the MediCloud system was launched to enable healthcare providers to query patients’ medical records within

the NHI system, while the PharmaCloud system provides prescription drug information to physicians and pharmacists.

Currently, through digital cloud tools, community-based primary care providers in Taiwan can retrieve test reports including CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, gastroscopies, colonoscopies and X-rays from secondary and tertiary institutions and receive prescription information.

These digital health technologies have enhanced care services. They have improved the quality of care and reduced costs, in terms of both time and money, by properly matching health services with the locations where these services are provided. They have also lowered the potential risks arising from repeated examinations. Related systems are patient-centred, meaning that they are organised around the complex needs and expectations of patients and communities, helping realize the concept of good hospitals in the community and good doctors in the neighbourhood.

Taiwan has learned how to utilize its competitive advantages in information technology and medicine to deliver better care and enhance the health of the overall population. In response to the goals set by the Health Workforce 2030 of the World Health Organization (WHO), Taiwan has also provided scholarships for in-service programmes and higher

education to thousands of people, both Taiwanese and foreign nationals, in fields such as medicine, nursing, dentistry and healthcare administration.

At a time when achieving universal health coverage has never been more urgent and important, Taiwan has actively sought to share its first-rate experience in healthcare reform. Regrettably, political obstruction has deprived Taiwan of the right to participate in and contribute to the World Health Assembly WHO’s decision-making body. In the past two years, WHO has denied Taiwanese delegates, who represent the 23 million citizens of a democratic and peaceful country, access to the assembly. Nevertheless, Taiwan remains committed to enhancing regional and global health cooperation, sharing its experience and capacity in healthcare reform with countries in need, and making universal health coverage a reality by 2030.

Against this backdrop, we urge WHO to respond favourably to the widespread calls for Taiwan’s inclusion in the World Health Assembly and related technical meetings, mechanisms and activities.

WHO should abide by its own principles of inclusiveness and universal participation.

Taiwan is a worthy and reliable partner that can help countries around the world achieve the meaningful goal of universal health coverage by 2030.

BEYOND PUBLIC HEALTH?

I

had reason to visit the OKEU hospital recently. I arrived forty-five minutes ahead of my scheduled appointment, leaving sufficient time to find my way around the new environment. I walked around the buildings, paying close attention to the structure and its grounds. What I saw led to my writing this letter. The hope is that someone with influence will read and act on it. The hospital requires on-going maintenance work (painting of outside metal structures) even as it waits to be fully functional. Some exposed metal is already showing signs of rust. The grounds need more care and supervision, and planting of ornamentals. In this regard, I suggest that the person

in charge employs one or two of the best gardeners, groundsmen and women from the area.

The air-conditioning in certain offices and indoor spaces used by doctors and patients is inoperative. During my short stay at the institution I overheard an elderly gentleman say in Kwéyòl that he did not need for quarrels over the hospital. Never in his lifetime had he known Saint Lucia to have such a lovely hospital. At the time the words were spoken, several other persons present went silent.

Others nearby kept their own thoughts to themselves. I took it they had nothing to say in contradiction of the old man’s observations.

---Peter Josie

Centre Grateful for ‘Make It Happen’ Assistance

Sylvie Edward (left) and Raquel Du Boulay-Chastanet (right) are both confident that Make It Happen donations will go a long way in helping victims of intimate partner abuse.

T

he Women’s Support Centre, on Monday, April 29, received a $15,000 cheque from the Make It Happen Foundation. On hand to present the cheque was the first lady herself Raquel Du BoulayChastanet, who described the centre as “an incredibly worthwhile organisation that doesn’t necessarily get the support it deserves”. She promised the foundation “will be offering continued support as and when we can”. The funds were raised at the Tea & Testimony initiative held in March.

The manager and counsellor of the centre, Sylvie Edward, informed victims of intimate partner abuse that the centre can be reached via its free 24-hour crisis line. She expressed gratitude to Mrs Du Boulay-Chastanet, the Make It Happen Foundation and its patrons for the assistance.

“This cheque could not

have arrived at a better time,” said Edward. “I can assure you that this will go a long way in ensuring the clients of the centre are comfortable and that they receive the best care during their stay.”

The shelter was established in 2001. Edward said: “We provide counselling to those women who come to the centre. We also have to provide for all of their needs because very often, when those women run from their homes, they’re left with nothing. We send their kids to school, we find jobs, we find homes, we do everything we can to assist them. Even after they’ve left the shelter, we provide continued support for them and their children. So if they need anything, any kind of support . . . very often they would require a job letter, or they would require a support letter for assistance in various areas, we assist them wherever possible.”

THE STAR

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06 comment

MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

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He who is without sin . . .

Peter Josie

F

rom what I learned in my youth, the words “your sins are forgiven”, spoken by Jesus Christ, angered his Jewish elders and led to his crucifixion. There was no room for any false messiah as far as the Jewish elders were concerned; only God could forgive sins. They had waited over 800 years for the one whom Jehovah (God) had promised would return to deliver them from their oppressors. Still, they believed Jesus Christ an imposter, and not the Messiah. They had earlier traced their sojourn in Egypt and on to the new land, and would brook no amendments to the laws of Moses.

The one sent to forgive sins and to instruct his brethren in a new superior life of love

and forgiveness was never accepted by some, then or now. This helps explain the continued turmoil in a world on an unrepentant path of hate and revenge. Nowhere was forgiveness more poignantly demonstrated by the dying Jesus Christ than on the cross. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do,” were his last recorded words, according to the Holy Bible.

It is with some relief therefore that I read the following from Rick Wayne in the STAR of April 27, 2019: “Last Thursday I came down hard on the side of burning Ubaldus Raymond whose private conversations with a female were weaponized by his detractors, the presumed holy as well as their unthinking echoes. It has since the last TALK occurred to me that whatever I may have accomplished up to this point was possible only because my

own transgressions were not forever held against me; that my occasional demonstrations of poor judgment had not cost me opportunities to do better.”

I was somewhat heartened to read the above quoted words from the host of TALK, one week after he had thrown Ubaldus Raymond under the bus.

There remains one sentence from the Holy Bible that continues to guide my reaction to those who say, “Crucify him! Crucify him!” as Rick had earlier done in the case of Ubaldus Raymond. “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” After these words from Jesus, the woman who was accused of adultery was set free andher accusers sheepishly dropped their rocks and walked away.

In my political vocabulary my preferred word for such hacks and hypocrites is legitimacy. The worst political

Form P7: Advertisement of Application for Grant Rule 15 __________________________________________________ THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE

SAINT LUCIA Claim No. SLUHPB2018/

IN THE MATTER of a Grant of Letters of Administration

in the Succession of STEPHEN RENEE late of Banse, Laborie, Saint Lucia.

BEFORE

: THE REGISTRAR OF THE SUPREME COURT

APPLICANT : MARY JAMES nee Hunt TAKE NOTICE that an application for a Grant of Letters of Administration has been filed by MARY JAMES nee Hunt, the applicant who is the lawful cousin of STEPHEN RENEE, Deceased, late of Banse, Laborie, Saint Lucia the Deceased having died intestate on the 29th day of March 2005.

Any person having an objection to the grant of Letters of Administration to the Applicant shall file an objection within 14 days of the publication of this Notice.

Dated this

day of

2018.

This Notice is filed by the Law Offices of Oswald Wilkinson Larcher & Associate whose address for service is Maison DuBonaire, John Compton Highway, Castries, Telephone Number 452-4555.

The Court office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, St. Lucia, Telephone Number 468-7500 Fax. Number 468-7543. The office is open between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays and between 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Fridays except public holidays. The Office can also be contacted via Email at stluhco@eccourts.org.

scoundrels are often those without a trace of legitimacy; they are often worse than those whom they accuse of wrongdoing. For some, the place and circumstance of their birth, coupled with their genetic composition, can result in a phenotype that may take generations to evolve into a work of human rectitude.

On the other hand, there are people whom God has blessed with strong, smart, hardworking parents who teach the difference between right and wrong from infancy. Such people hardly judge others, knowing themselves.

That Thursday evening on his television show, I was stunned when Rick fed Dr. Ubaldus Raymond to the waiting lions whose jaws are stained red with the blood of the innocent. Mind you, I did not think Ubaldus had done himself or the government any favours. He ought to have known how selective are the minds of his detractors.

Besides, some opponents had previously conspired to send him naked to two young women secretly posing as innocent virgins in search of easy money. The politics of the last 22 years seem to indicate that those who resign from the Labour Party are marked for destruction.

To send a clear message that such dirty political games would not stand, and that party politics will not descend to depths of intolerance, the government has decided to investigate the latest matter surrounding Ubaldus Raymond.

The nation has a right to know who the people enticing the egotistical Ubaldus Raymond are and why they aim to embarrass him and his family. The PM had a duty to step in.

Rick could have done a better job in his previous TALK show on the matter. I asked myself that evening: How on God’s green earth do Rick’s mentioned friends feature in his anti-Ubaldus Raymond sentiments? I know the answer, but wise counsel demands I keep it to myself.

The fact that a week later Rick turned around and said what many may have been thinking that evening about forgiveness does more good than harm.

The former senator and government minister Mr. Ubaldus Raymond (pictured) resigned both positions this week. In an earlier time he had also quit Kenny Anthony’s Labour Party administration in favour of a government portfolio in Turks & Caicos.

I suggest that Ubaldus Raymond fully co-operate with the police and give them accurate answers when asked.

The PM, in his own deliberate judgment has found a suitable replacement for the seat in the Senate. I predict that the new senator will change the

political equation in the south of the island more meaningfully than most. In the meantime, the PM and his UWP must find the courage and love, to tell Dr. Ubaldus Raymond, “Your sins are forgiven.” By so doing, the PM and his party will attain the peace and grace Saint Lucia so desperately needs.

THE STAR

may 04, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

07

08 local

From one media man to another!

Dean Nestor

A

may 04, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

t the heart of even the corniest clichés there is truth. Hidden feelings often fly out of our mouths when our tongues are heaviest with alcohol or when we speak in jest. On Monday April 29, while attending a scheduled pre-cabinet press briefing in the conference room of the office of the Prime Minister, a supposed media colleague told a withering joke about me—loud enough so everyone else in the room could hear, journalists and government officials alike.

“You’re the same guy who sells out his sources!” said my jocular accuser. I was taken completely off guard by what seemed to me an unprovoked attack on not only my professionalism, but also my character. I thought for a moment whether the shooter had mindlessly shot off his mouth. I was soon set aright.

Looking straight at an obviously bewildered me, he said: “He

knows who I’m talking about.

The same guy who sells out his sources.”

Just what was it that had provoked the attempted character assassination? It wasn’t as if I had committed the unpardonable sin of writing critically about my colleague’s reporting prowess. Rather, someone had asked if I had seen my colleague’s latest report and I replied that I had not. The enquirer then informed me that “it was yet another nothingburger”.

Obviously the barb was a little too loud and perhaps a little too true for my colleague’s ears. His typical reaction was nevertheless directed not at his disappointed viewer but at me. Guility by association, I suppose.

But I wasn’t the only one confused by this unexpected and umerited attack. “What is he talking about?” I was asked.

“Aren’t you going to defend yourself?” To which I replied: “Consider the source.”

But my presumed colleague wasn’t yet done with me. “But what I wrote was true,” he mocked, giggling

throughout like a schoolgirl.

It occurred to me that he had echoed back at me my own words spoken to one man two months earlier: “But what I wrote was true.” I was quietly livid, until Senator Fortuna Belrose entered the room to switch my focus.

Immediately following her time with the gathered press representatives I called out to my colleague. “Miguel,” I said, “let’s have a word.”

He approached me, his hand extended. I pretended not to notice as we sat down. “I didn’t get what you said earlier,” I said. His response: “I was told you sell out your sources.”

Suddenly I had gone from the man who sells out his sources to the man someone said sold out his sources. “Who told you that?” I asked, and he said: “Julian Monrose.” Just as I had already guessed. So much for me being untrustworthy.

With little encouragement my accuser had proved himself a seller of sources. “What, it’s not true?” he asked, noting my bemused expression.

“Do you even know the story?” I asked.

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“No I don’t,” was his reply. “I was told . . .” I cut him off. “You didn’t say you were quoting hearsay when you called me out as if you knew what you were saying was validated fact.”

“Oh, but that was just a joke,” said Miguel, looking like a grinning sheep might, if only sheep could grin. I said: “You were spreading fake news about me and now you say you were joking? If you’d wanted to know the truth you’d at least have asked for my version. You did not!”

He abruptly got up to “cover another story”. But not before letting me know he “didn’t like the story y’all wrote about Rehani”. I cannot tell to which story he referred. Rick Wayne wrote one with which Rehani found no problem. As for my three, they dealt more with double standards in media coverage than with Rehani himself. The best Miguel could do “for one of our own in trouble” was to call on the nation to pray for someone whose name he never mentioned. More on that soon in another bulletin!

Another bloody week in Paradise

T

his week saw three families plunged into mourning as Saint Lucia experienced more fatalities.

It began on Monday on Dix Street, Canaries with the death of 24-year-old Kadeem Henry. Police reports indicate he suffered a stab wound during an altercation with a male individual and was pronounced dead on the scene.

Just about two hours later, a shooting incident in Marc, Bexon claimed one life and injured three other individuals. Shevard Dupre, also 24, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The violence continued on Wednesday with the discovery of a dead male in Latille, Micoud. The deceased was identified as Dominican national Chris Charles.

Three individuals have been taken into police custody in relation to the mentioned first two incidents. No arrests

have been made in the Micoud case. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has called on the informed public to call the nearest police station.

In a recent interview, ACP Wayne Charlery told the STAR that despite high crime levels, there were no plans for another Operation Restore Confidence.

He said the goal is to be consistent every day despite the many challenges confronting the police—including the fallout from IMPACS. Last November, the Home Affairs ministry conducted a Crime Perception Survey to “measure the fear of crime among the public”. The ministry said the data gathered from the survey would help government to formulate solutions to lessen crime and “ultimately provide the public with an increased sense of safety and security”.

The number of homicides recorded so far this year stands at twelve!

---JSA

MISLAND CAPITAL LIMITED ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF SUGAR BEACH, A VICEROY RESORT

M

island Capital Limited on Thursday announced the acquisition of Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, Saint Lucia’s premier five-star resort. Misland Capital Limited is the investment fund of the Green family in Bermuda. The Greens have considerable experience in the leisure industry, being former shareholders of the Maybourne Group, owners of The Connaught, The Berkeley and Claridges in London. They are beneficial owners of The Hamilton Princess and Beach Club, a luxury urban resort and Bermuda’s leading business hotel during the week and quintessential weekend experience.

Alexander Green said, “Following our visits to Sugar Beach, we are extremely excited about the possibilities the resort holds. It is a spectacular hotel and we will continue the sensitive development of this unique UNESCO World Heritage site, in keeping with the successful stewardship shown by the previous owners.

We are impressed with Viceroy’s management team who will continue to operate the resort

and have already begun thinking about ways in which the hotel can be taken to the next level in terms of amenities and guest experience.”

Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, formally The Jalousie Plantation, was developed by the Myers family who became beneficial owners in 2006.

Nestled between Saint Lucia’s iconic pitons and set in 130 acres of pristine rainforest on the site of an 18th century sugar plantation, it is now established as one of the leading five-star resorts in the Caribbean.

Roger Myers said: “It is with very mixed feelings that we are selling the resort, but we have decided to take things easier. We have had a wonderful experience and can’t thank everyone enough for their help in creating Sugar Beach. We have nothing but respect and affection for everyone who has worked with us. We believe the Green family to be the perfect new owners, with the resources and style to ensure its future stability and to take the resort to the next level. Our love affair with Saint Lucia is not over so,

if you spot a small couple with bad hats and shaggy dogs, don’t be surprised!”

Bill Walshe, CEO of Viceroy Hotels & Resorts added, “We are delighted that Viceroy Hotels & Resorts will continue to manage Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. It has been an absolute joy to work alongside Roger Myers to make his vision a reality, transforming this spectacular property into an award-winning, world class resort.

We look forward to our partnership with Berco Limited and the Green family as together we build on the resort’s position as the luxury jewel of the Caribbean.”

The sale of the resort was arranged by Paul Weimer and Christian Charre who lead CBRE Hotels’ Miami-based Caribbean brokerage practice. “There are very few resorts in the world on par with Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort, which is why we were not surprised by the strong interest we received from international investors,” said Mr. Weimer. “We are most proud of the fact that the resort has been placed in excellent hands, ensuring its legacy for many years to come, which was a primary goal of our client,” added Mr. Charre.

THE STAR

MAY 04, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

How will LIAT’s situation impact local tourism?

09

for growth and development and are looking for a talented and dedicated individual to become part of our dynamic team.

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN CAPITAL (HC) Unicomer (OECS) is a market leader in the Furniture, Appliance, Optical and Electronics sector, is recruiting an experienced Human Capital professional with strong leadership credentials to join its executive team within the OECS. Reporting to the OECS Managing Director, the incumbent will be responsible for the strategic leadership of human capital for the six islands of the OECS region. The incumbent will also be responsible for the development of HC strategies, processes and programs that support achievement of business results through people, organizational development and transformation.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced, commercially aware individual with a successful track record in the leadership of human capital, being able to:

• •

Develop strategic OECS HC plan to enable business success through people Partner with leadership team to align human capital (HC) plans to business priorities to organization, as and when they occur.

• • Tourism officials in Saint Lucia are closely monitoring LIAT’s situation.

The regional tourism market plays a crucial part in the overall Joshua St. Aimee growing industry, consistently ranking in the top three markets for stay-over arrivals, alongside the United States and the United he future of regional airline LIAT seems to grow grimmer Kingdom. Figures from the Central Statistical Office indicate that with each day. Recently the from 2009-2015, total stay-over Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, arrivals were 278,491; 305,937; 304,639; 306,801; 318,626; warned the airline might be forced to shut down to make way 338,158 and 344,908.

The Caribbean region came for another. Antigua and Barbuda in third after the UK, with 60,183; Prime Minister Gaston Browne downplayed the warning, assuring 53,998; 35,279; 56,067; 37,465; 55,484 and 62,745 respectively. that his government would not In 2016 and 2017, total stayallow such a thing to happen. This over arrivals stood at 347,872 week saw the main shareholder and 386,127. The Caribbean governments of Antigua and surpassed the UK in those two Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica years, bringing in 67,226 and and St. Vincent holding more 76,349, while the UK had 64,514 meetings, and the St. Kitts and and 72,580.

Nevis government announcing

Officials from the Saint Lucia it would provide EC$1 million in Tourism Authority declined the emergency funding.

STAR’s request for comment on

This comes on the heels of the situation. the establishment of an advisory

Meanwhile, the Saint Lucia committee in March to consider proposals from LIAT. In that same Hotel and Tourism Association's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. month, the Grenada government Noorani Azeez, says that with LIAT also contributed EC$1 million. In being the main carrier of regional the midst of all this uncertainty visitors, the airline plays a critical is the firm stance by Prime role for the island's number one Minister Allen Chastanet that sector. his government would not be

"We are concerned,” he providing financial support acknowledged. “For us, LIAT is a unless there are fundamental carrier that facilitates a number changes. But with the airline of visitors to the destination from serving as a major carrier for the regional market, and this visitors to Saint Lucia, might is a key market for our tourism the prime minister find himself industry in Saint Lucia. There spitting at the sky?

T

are a lot of small and medium accommodation entities who benefit from that strong regional visitor arrival market, so there would be a ripple effect of that carrier going under. These properties can least afford to have long periods without occupancy."

While that may be the case, he is not blind to the airline's struggles. He said that while the solution to LIAT's problems is not clear-cut, there is merit in Chastanet's position. The fact that the airline is once again in financial straits, he says, should cause regional governments to rationalize clearly what LIAT's purpose should be. He believes Caribbean governments need to take a careful look at how they encourage and nurture the free movement of goods and services among the various islands. "If that's the ultimate aim, perhaps we need to look at how we can attract more players into the market, thereby allowing market forces to dictate who survives and who doesn’t."

In a press statement on Monday, LIAT indicated that despite the challenges, it will continue to operate its daily flight schedule. The release noted that ongoing discussions with governments about a Minimum Revenue Guarantee Model "have been slower than anticipated.”

Still the company remains hopeful.

• • • • •

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requisite competencies and experience.

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We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

10

COMMENT

may 04, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Jack Grynberg w

‘Dismissed’ c Saint Lucia ba E

ven as some suspect somnabulists continue to pronounce dead the mystery commonly referred to as Grynberg, in the realm of reality the opposite remains true: According to information accessible on the website of the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes, the Texas-based RSM via its CEO Jack Grynberg entered into an arrangement signed by Kenny Anthony in the name of Saint Lucia on 29 March 2000. But not until close to a decade later did that fact come to light. So close to his bosom did the day’s prime minister hold the contract that not even members of his Cabinet had a clue about it.

It turned out that Earl Huntley, then a public servant, had in his private capacity alerted the oilman to the possible presence of oil under the sea at Dauphin. After Jack Grynberg confirmed Huntley’s conviction that a yucky substance that had clung to his foot while swimming in the area was indeed Texas tea, Huntley arranged a secret meeting with Prime Minister Kenny Anthony that culminated in the earlier mentioned contract. In the telling of Dame

Pearlette Louisy, not even the nation’s governor general, the only official legally authorized to issue exploration licenses in Saint Lucia, was informed of the agreement.

A short time earlier RSM had entered into a similar arrangement with the government of Grenada that finally required the intervention of the ICSID, at great cost to the island’s government and people. The Saint Lucia arrangement never got very far.

Mere months after its inking RSM notified the prime minister that he could not properly honor his end of the bargain until certain border disputes with uncooperative sister islands were settled. In the meantime he requested and was granted by Kenny Anthony without a word to his Cabinet, the day’s House opposition or the governor general, an extension to their contract and additional acreage for exploration.

In 2006 the Kenny Anthony administration was voted out of office and replaced by an ailing Sir John Compton.

Following his passing in early 2007, and without evidentiary support, Jack Grynberg’s local “associates” claimed

Compton had promised to discuss with his Cabinet certain matters relating to the RSM contract, reportedly due to expire the year Compton died. No correspondence has ever surfaced that might’ve indicated the prime minister ever had any knowledge of a government contract with RSM. There was nothing in the government’s files to suggest what may have transpired between Kenny Anthony and Jack Grynberg in the presence of oil finder Huntley. Not even that the prime minister and the oilman had ever been introduced.

The sole keeper of documents relating to the arrangement has never produced proof of his communication with Compton in relation to that fateful day he serendipitously discovered oil under the Dauphin seabed.

Shortly before the 2011 general elections Prime Minister Stephenson King informed RSM by letter of his government’s intention to put up for bids the area referred to in the company’s 2000 agreement. King informed Grynberg that he considered his 2000 arrangement “expired,” and invited him to get to take the line and bid with other

The main players (l-r): Earl Huntley, RSM’s Jack Grynberg, f to set up an in

interested oil explorers.

Grynberg’s response was a warning to King that the force majeure clause in his contract kept it alive and that if the prime minister dared to carry out his plan the billionaire oilman would sue for breach of contract. The Kenny Anthony government that had initiated the relationship was back in office when RSM carried out its threat.

According to its records, the ICSID received on 30 March 2012 “a request for arbitration from RSM against Saint Lucia.”

A 20 April release from the

office of the prime minister confirmed RSM’s action. Also that on 10 April 2008 the King government had taken the position that the agreement had expired and had “subsequently reportedly taken steps to put the agreement area which RSM has the right to explore, to competitive bidding.”

On 6 September 2013 lawyers representing the government filed a request requiring RSM to post security in the form of “an irrevocable bank guarantee of US$750,000”; also an order

requiring RSM to pay “all costs advances during the pendency of the arbitration.” Three months later the tribunal ordered RSM to pay “all costs and advances” and adjourned the request that RSM post US$750,000 security for costs.

On 13 August 2014 the tribunal directed RSM to post that security within 30 days of the decision.

Back on the ranch on 14 August the prime minister’s office issued a release headed “St. Lucia Wins Another Round In the OnGoing Arbitration Case with Jack Grynberg’s Company.” The memo cited a December 12, 2013 order

THE STAR

COMMENT 11

www.stluciastar.com

may 04, 2019

wins on appeal:

case against back on track!

Grynberg, former prime minister Kenny Anthony, and current PM Allen Chastanet who promised several months ago et up an investigation into the Grynberg conundrum but to date has not!

by the ICSID that RSM pay all the advances toward the administration costs of the arbitration “which in all previous known cases have been paid 50% by each party.” Meanwhile the tribunal had warned RSM that if the company failed to cough up the US$750,000 dire consequences would follow.

On 8 April 2015 the tribunal declared that RSM’s complaint would be set aside until the company had complied with the costs order. RSM was given six months to provide the security for costs, in default of which “the respondent is granted leave to

apply to the tribunal for a final award of dismissal.” All other procedural requests were off the table.

RSM appealed. On 15 November, 2018 there was a meeting in Washington D.C. of a so-called “ad hoc committee” with the discretion to annul an award or not, having considered “all relevant circumstances including the gravity of the circumstances which constitute the ground for annulment and whether these circumstances had, or could have had, a material effect upon the outcome of the case.”

The committee recalled that there were “three stages involved in the process that led to the tribunal’s ultimate decision to discontinue the proceedings. First, an order was made by the tribunal for security of costs, with RSM given 30 days to comply.

Second, in the face of the failure of RSM to provide such security there was a decision by the tribunal suspending the proceedings for six months.

Third, following the six-month period when it was clear RSM was refusing to provide security for costs, the award

was issued by the tribunal discontinuing the proceedings with prejudice.”

Moreover: “In the view of the committee, while the decision to discontinue the proceedings for failure to provide securities . . . is within the power of a tribunal under Article 44 . . . a decision to dismiss the claims with prejudice takes on a different character. Such a decision prevents the claim from being reintroduced at a later stage. Dismissing a claim with prejudice is the same as concluding the claim has no

While the committee concluded the tribunal was not per se manifestly exceeding its powers by discontinuing the proceedings, “it was manifestly exceeding its powers by dismissing the proceedings— ‘with prejudice!’ ”

Finally the committee supported RSM’s right to have the company’s case against Saint Lucia heard on its merits.

As for all fees and expenses, they will now be borne, at the committee’s direction, by both parties; not just by Jack Grynberg: two thirds must be paid by RSM and one third by Saint Lucia.

There has been no further word from Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, following his promise several months ago to initiate an investigation into the events that landed Saint Lucia before the ICSID in the first place. Nearly twenty years after the secret signing, there has been no official word on the matter. Kenny Anthony has ignored requests by prime ministers King and Allen Chastanet. At the time merit. This cannot be a matter the last mentioned announced of procedure . . . This is not his intention to investigate just a procedural matter the issue, his immediate affecting this case: it is a predecessor, Kenny Anthony, substantive matter affecting threatened that if Chastanet the merits of the case and initiated an investigation the MP the rights of RSM to pursue for Vieux Fort South would its claims. It is not just about “make sure you reap the preventing a claimant from whirlwind!” continuing proceedings in

So far the Grynberg case which it has failed to provide has cost local taxpayers close to security costs. It is about ending EC$4 million. In his suit, yet to a case on its merits . . . nor is be heard, the billionaire oilman there any other basis in the is seeking damages in the sum ICSID Convention for a tribunal to dismiss a case on the merits of US$500 million. Clearly this without having heard arguments matter won't be over until the fat man sings! on the merits.”

12 local

D

MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

A Successful Future for Hospitality Depends on a Sustainable Workforce

evelopment that meets the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs," is how the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987 defined sustainable development.

The constant quest for economic independence can feel like a rat race, one where healthy practices, consequences, and frugal use of resources are afterthoughts. In Saint Lucia, we have one industry where the race is tight and the competition fierce. That industry is hospitality.

The backbone of Saint Lucia's hospitality industry, like most places, comprises the concrete walls that line beachfronts and where visitors lounge during vacations and trips. When it comes to hotels, operating one is the equivalent of powering a complex machine by keeping the wheels of several moving parts spinning—one misstep can cost the livelihoods of hundreds.

What's most important, however, is the current that keeps these wheels in motion and, for hotels, that current is the workforce.

In 2015 the United Nations General Assembly set 17 global goals as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The purpose of these goals is to forge a "blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all" via the facilitation of several best practices aiming to establish and maintain a good quality of life for the global population. Amongst the UN's 17 goals, work and the workforce are directly mentioned in goal number eight: Decent

Hotels are satisfying the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals necessary for the hospitality workforce’s development.

work and economic growth.

The UN believes "sustainable economic growth will require societies to create the conditions that allow people to have quality jobs." Additionally, the UN intends to achieve this goal by hitting 12 broad targets, one of which is; “By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products.”

Analysis of the global business landscape reveals that in the hospitality industry specifically, sustainable development has always been more of a necessity than a welcomed recommendation. This is so not only due to how vital a flourishing human resources pool is for the sector's success but also because, according to researchers in the Sustainability

and the Tourism and Hospitality Workforce: A Thematic Analysis study, tourism has the potential to "impinge on the land, water and wider rights of communities and families with respect to economic activity, employment, education, health, recreation, and environmental concerns". Put simply, the effects of tourism are too far-reaching to not ensure all bases in its sustainability are monitored and sufficiently managed.

Unfortunately, studies conducted to analyze the presence of sustainability practices within the global tourism sector have revealed that habitually little attention has been given to the workforce.

Such realities have caused field experts like Dr Jithendran Kokkranikal and Tom Baum (long-time tourism and work

organisation professors and researchers) to argue, "Both from the development and preservation angle, HRD [Human Resource Development] holds the key to sustainability." Their words came before the emergence and spread of Sustainable Human Resource Management in tourism, which focuses on the organisation at a macro level and the effects of practices on individuals. There is now widespread understanding that human resource management must consider sustainability in its practices to secure the future of the sector. But how will this look for a country like Saint Lucia?

Some local hotels have already taken up the mantle on sustainable human resource management by encouraging a good family-work life balance.

The Saint Lucian-owned and operated hotelier Bay Gardens Resorts, for instance, allows paternity leave to fathers, which is a fairly unpopular practice in local work culture.

The company also offers staff a complimentary night's stay at any of its properties each year and has implemented a 'WOW Bucks' incentive programme whereby managerial staff award line staff who've accumulated WOW Bucks for work done well. These WOW Bucks can be traded in for prizes like free lunches, dinner, Splash Island Water passes and stays at one of the properties.

Meanwhile, other resorts have taken a different approach by prioritizing staff wellbeing and comfort, with free access to wellness facilities. A prime example is the Adam Stewart

Rejuvenation Lounge facilitated at Sandals Grande St. Lucian.

Equipped with massage chairs, La-Z boy recliners, beds, a library and a television, the lounge remains open for employees to use between shifts. “The management team recognizes the dedication and hard work of all team members. As such, the innovative idea of providing a lounge for staff—not just to relax but to indulge in massages, get peaceful rest or just kick back and have a quiet read—was born,” said the resort's Human Resource Manager, Marsha King.

Sandals Grande also has an on-property gym which its staff can access for free, a barber shop, hair salon, nail tech and tuck shop equipped with local food grocery items, all within reach so as to lighten the load on staff working various shifts. The company also holds an annual health symposium during which staff have access to free medical services.

The Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association also recently joined forces with Sterling Insurances and Beacon Insurance to offer health and medical insurance to the hundreds of employees working within the member companies within the association. The insurance provides access to an impressive schedule of benefits covering vision and dental services as well as medical care including, but not limited to, private duty nursing care, hospital room and board, prescribed drug benefits, diagnostic (X-ray and lab) benefits, psychiatric services (out of hospital), physiotherapy

benefits, chiropractic benefits, radiotherapy/chemotherapy, airfare and emergency air ambulance, congenital birth defects, AIDS or AIDS-related Illnesses and preventative care benefits. Speaking to the reason for this addition, SLHTA's Chief Executive Officer, Noorani Azeez says, “Our team members are our greatest allies in growing our industry. It is therefore imperative that our Association negotiates the absolute best medical insurance access for our member employees and their families. Our group medical insurance plan must be second to none.”

The aforementioned are a few of several notable efforts in a local pursuit of establishing effective occupational sustainable development amongst the hospitality workforce. An allencompassing approach across the sector, however, could maximize the benefits for the future of workers, including better mental and physical health, increased productivity, job satisfaction, speedier progress, industry longevity (even when other sectors begin to thrive), and more. If that were not enough, with the efforts put forth by the UN and the 190 world leaders who have committed to pushing for sustainability across the globe, buyers (which includes travellers) will be encouraged to acknowledge and become more conscious of the importance of patronizing businesses and markets which have adopted noticeable sustainable development practices. Ideally, Saint Lucia should be one of them.

BSJ INC. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) invites offers for purchase of the following Lots comprising part of the BSJ Residential Estate, a.k.a. “Ocean Breeze Estate”, located at Mount Layou, Gros Islet.

Suitable offers are welcome!

For more information, CONTACT:

The Receiver/Manager BSJ Inc. (in Receivership) Tel #: 1 (758) 484-6313 | E-Mail: agcreceivership@gmail.com

THE STAR may 04, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

LOCAL

13

Advice to Ubaldus Raymond:

Please get with the programme!

Claudia Eleibox Mc Dowell

A

s I walked in to work one day, everyone I passed— from the receptionist’s desk onwards—stared me up and down. I knew the reason I had suddenly become a curiosity had everything to do with a man I met in Barbados while on a media tour. Afterward he had sent to a fellow STAR employee a recording of our most recent phone conversation—during which I told him about an interview I’d conducted with a high-ranking government official and why I would reproduce it for my newspaper even though I didn’t believe a word the official had told me.

I had also supplied my Bajan friend with details of my daily discussions with my publisher.

I revealed to him sensitive stories not yet published in the STAR and complained about discrimination I had suffered at work. I told him about company operations and my salary compared to my co-workers. When I noticed that he didn’t sound interested in my job woes, I changed gears.

I suggested how I’d like things to go down in the bedroom the next time I visited him in Barbados. If he came to Saint Lucia, I suggested, it would be an easy matter for me to sneak out for a few hours to “interview” him like he had been interviewed before. Our recorded phone conversation had also reached my husband.

Needless to say, had any of the above actually happened, if Rick didn’t fire me, Mae probably would have.

Ubaldus Raymond (pictured) may have been a model government employee, but he might need some lessons on cell phone etiquette.

But I might have spared them the trouble and resigned, whether by WhatsApp or a hand-delivered note. It is my understanding that Ubaldus Raymond notified intent of his own resignation in similar fashion.

Before introducing his guest on last week’s TALK, host Rick Wayne said: “I’ve never invited people on my show to make them look bad. They can do that all on their own. If Ubaldus Raymond chooses to lie to me, that’s his problem. Rest assured I will check out what I need to, as I tend to do with other guests.” But Raymond didn’t lie. Neither did he look bad. At least, he didn’t think so.

“Well, first of all thank you Rick for inviting me tonight. I’ve not come here to discuss a crime

that Ubaldus has committed, I’m not here to discuss any violation of anybody’s rights that I committed. I am not here to talk about my violation of the Constitution of Saint Lucia.” He said he had no problem talking about the subject at hand, which is why he had readily accept the invitation to appear on TALK. “There is no shame, I feel no embarrassment because I know I have not committed any crime.”

Of course, in his attempt to clear the air, Raymond had to explain what had transpired while on official business in Trinidad, keeping in mind an announced on-going investigation by the local attorney general’s office. He and nine other government employees went to Trinidad

on a “fact-finding mission” connected with digitizing several government services here. Four of the ten were invited to a party on the weekend before Trinidad’s Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

Two weeks ago, this newspaper reported that Raymond met a woman while in Trinidad who would later become his co-star in the “salacious” (that’s been the word of the day for two weeks) phone conversations that exploded on local social media.

Asked by TALK’s host how he felt when he learned his conversations with the woman had been recorded, Raymond replied: “I was taken aback,” but when asked about the impact on the country, he said he had not been keeping tabs on related public discussions.

While talking on the phone to his Trini friend did he not think of his earlier involvement with two 18-year-old Saint Lucian seducers who turned out to be blackmailers? He said he had not. Why? “Because I believed I was having a private conversation and individuals have private conversations every day.” That, as if the activities and conversations in the initial 2017 episode were not also supposed to be private!

I have always been careful and conscious of the power of technology when talking to people I hardly know.

(Ubaldus Raymond had met the Trinidadian multi-tasker just once.) Moreover, had I experienced the WhatsApp mayhem that Raymond did in 2017, I think I would have been a lot more wary of cell phones. But then, easy for me to say when I don’t know what rocks Raymond’s clock.

Health Minister: We are working with PAHO to handle Cruise Ship Measles Case

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he department of Health and Wellness confirmed on Thursday a measles case aboard a cruise ship that has been docked in Castries harbour since April 30. The release also revealed that due to “the highly infectious nature of measles a decision was made not to allow persons to disembark”.

For her part, health minister Mary Isaac said: “Our decision to quarantine is in keeping with our laws. We haven’t simply taken this decision unilaterally but are working on the advice of,

and in conjunction with, PAHO and CARPHA. We are being very cautious and have done what is necessary to ensure public safety.” Isaac also reassured the public that no-one on island has been infected with the disease.

The press release also confirmed a request of 100 doses of the measles vaccine by the ship’s doctor on Thursday, which the authorities say “is currently being provided from our supplies, at no cost”.

---DN

He who is without sin and all that. Besides, as Raymond put it somewhat carelessly on TALK: “If we have to go down that road, not one of the parliamentarians can stand. Not one who can stand. There are those who do their stuff and are doing their stuff, and they will never be caught. In fact, some of them have done criminal stuff . . .” The ever cautious host cut him off, maybe to avoid possible slander suits. Of course, since his appearance on TALK, some have been accusing Raymond of throwing his party colleagues under the bus, something he denies while adding, “Those I referred to, know themselves.”

Never mind that he believes what befell him “could have happened to any one of us,” Raymond still indicated to his prime minister his intention to resign soon after receiving “certain information”. This week the on-off decision was made final. It was publicly announced on Monday that he

had officially thrown in the towel.

Invited to comment on Monday before the public announcement of the day’s resignation, a visibly uncomfortable Senator Fortuna Belrose said: “Social media does what it wants, how it wants, when it wants. We have no regulations and as a consequence of that I will wait to get the investigator’s information first.”

As for Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, somewhat ironically he said Raymond had demonstrated commitment to his country, had served it well and never faltered in his government responsibilities.

All of which sounds like quite a recommendation. In any case, Raymond has publicly thanked his wife, church and female friends who are all “supporting” him and telling him to “be strong”. It is hoped that he also received reminders that in today’s world there’s no such thing as private anymore. Neither trust.

And that seems a terrible pity!

Please be advised that Mr. Lucien Joseph Former President of Holiday Taxi Ltd. is no longer authorized to conduct business transactions on behalf of Holiday Taxi Ltd, Holiday Adventures Ltd and Auto Supplies Ltd.

14

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may 04, 2019 THE STAR

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MAY 04, 2019

KIM’S KORNER

Polio and its after-effects

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uring the 60s and 70s emphasis in medical care was to develop vaccines against the rising number of childhood diseases. One of the diseases that received attention at that time was polio, also known as poliomyelitis or infantile paralysis. Polio is an extremely contagious viral infection that causes damage to the nervous system, which can result in paralysis, breathing difficulties and, in some cases, death. However, not all cases of polio display obvious symptoms.

In approximately 95% of cases the infection can mimic the flu, lasting from a few days to a few weeks.

Polio tends to affect children under the age of five and is spread by ingesting food or water that contains human faeces and, in some cases, by infected saliva. The first case was reported in England in 1789 by Michael Underwood, who saw cases of children presenting with weakness and paralysis of the legs. Symptoms seemed to be more common in the summer and autumn, and over the next few hundred years the numbers increased, as did the average age of those infected. By 1952 there were over 21,000 young people in America who displayed symptoms of paralysis.

In 1955 the first vaccine was developed. It involved injecting people with the inactivated (killed) poliovirus.

By 1962 an oral version of the vaccine was developed which was easier and cheaper to administer, and so began journey of eradication.

In developed countries polio has virtually been eradicated. No cases have been reported in Latin America and the Caribbean since 1991. Polio is now found only in Nigeria, Pakistan and Afghanistan, and their cases are declining.

Between 2014 and 2015 there was a 79% decrease in reported cases globally and in 2017 only 22, indicating total eradication is possible.

Even though it looks likely the disease will be totally eradicated worldwide, polio is not letting us forget that it existed. In the last 20 or so years there have been reports

cure for PPS and treatment focuses on the management of symptoms and interventions to promote independence and improve quality of life. Exercise may be beneficial, by keeping the muscles strong and slowing down the weakness, but activity can also have the opposite effect and leave the muscles feeling fatigued. To overcome this, pacing chores and daily activity is vital to finding the perfect balance. Medication also has an important role to

Millions have been vaccinated against polio but those who were previously diagnosed with the virus sometimes see the symptoms resurface decades later.

of recurrence of symptoms in people who were diagnosed or suspected of having polio when they were younger. Research has revealed that around 50% of people who had polio as a children will go on to develop post poliomyelitis syndrome (PPS).

So what is PPS? PPS is a condition that affects survivors of polio years after the initial illness. However, not every person who had polio will develop this condition. Unlike polio, PPS is not contagious.

Why some people develop symptoms and others don’t, is not fully understood. It is thought that it is the result of neural fatigue—the nerve cells that took over the work of the ones damaged by the polio virus become overworked.

Symptoms are typically observed between 30 and 40 years after recovery and tend to appear in clusters. The first sign is usually gradual weakness in muscles that were not previously affected, or worsening weakness in muscles that were previously affected. The presentation of symptoms varies; some people may experience only minor symptoms while others have severe disabling and debilitating symptoms that can make everyday activities difficult.

The most common

symptoms are: • Muscle weakness that progresses slowly • Muscle atrophy (reduction in muscle size) • Difficulties with speech, breathing and swallowing • Joint pain • Posture changes such as the late onset of scoliosis • Sensitivity to cold temperatures • Poor memory and difficulty concentrating • Irregular sleeping patterns or sleep apnoea • Constant tiredness • Unexplained mood swings and depression

Although the condition itself is not life-threatening, weak respiratory muscles and difficulty swallowing may lead to complications such as breathing problems and pneumonia which can lead to death.

As there are no laboratory or diagnostic tests available for PPS, diagnosis is dependent on ruling out similar pathologies, and the presence of certain criteria which can be determined by taking a thorough medical history and physical examination. The most obvious criteria are a previous diagnosis of polio, the length of time since recovery and the gradual onset of weakness.

At present there is no

play in controlling joint and muscle pain. Physiotherapy is another useful intervention, not only to give advice and guidance on exercise and pacing activities but also on mobility aids and supports for weakened joints.

With polio almost eradicated worldwide, this problem will disappear but, for now, the take-home message is to be up-to-date with your vaccinations, keep active and stay vigilant.

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

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) under the “Global Programme Sustainable Management of Mobility in the Context of Climate Change (HMCCC)” in St. Lucia is looking for a:

Accounting Assistant (m/f) Required Profile: • • • • • • • •

Certificate/diploma or comparable qualification from a commercial academy (accounting).

At least 1-3 years’ professional experience in a comparable position. solid understanding of basic bookkeeping and accounting payable/receivable principles. in-depth knowledge of accounting software. good working knowledge of ITC technologies (related software, phone, fax, email, the internet) and computer applications (e.g. MS Office). very good knowledge of the European language widely used in the country, ideally a knowledge of German good management and organizational skills. willingness to upskill as required by the tasks to be performed – corresponding measures are agreed with management.

Information of the Programme:

The HMCC Programme principal goal is to improve applied knowledge relating to the sustainable management of human mobility in the context of climate change in our partner regions the Caribbean and the Pacific and our partner country the Philippines, as well as in German and international cooperation. In addition, Timeframe of Employment: May/ June 2019-April 2020.

Application Information: If you are interested, kindly submit your cover letter and CV in PDF form and in English to: giz.serviceskaribik@giz.de Candidate’s application will be received by May 10th, 2019

NOTE: Due to the high volume of applications received, we will only contact applicants who are being considered. Thank you for your understanding.

16 local

House for Sale

MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

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Agricultural Sector Gains More Taiwanese Expertise T

Part of Morne Development, Upper Pave’, with views of Castries.

4 bedroom with ensuite baths Telephone:

1-758-518-1822 or 720-4615

he government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has recently selected Ai-Lin Chen to serve as the specialist for the project for the Enhancement of the Efficiency of Production-Distribution Supply Chains in the Fruit and Vegetable Sector in the Taiwan Technical Mission in Saint Lucia.

Chen recently graduated from the University of California, Davis, where she earned a dual master’s degree in agricultural economics and international agricultural development. She has a lifelong interest in agricultural policy and has previously served as a farm extension advisor in Taiwan.

The project will see collaboration with multiple local stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture, extension offices, farmer associations, vegetable farmers, supermarkets and hotels.

From the production side, this project will entail work with the Ministry of Agriculture and extension offices to conduct vegetable farmer

The Taiwan Technical Mission fruit and vegetable project team meets with Ministry of Agriculture representatives to discuss the future implementation plan.

surveys, provide agriculture climate adaptation plans, and utilize and reshape current agricultural resource systems.

On the market side, the project will involve work with farmers’ cooperatives

to establish market channels that will increase the quantity and access of local produce to multiple markets such as supermarkets and hotels.

“I see that the Taiwan Technical Mission in Saint

Lucia and its network have excellent experience and expertise over the years doing this job. I want to package that information and make it accessible to everyone, letting the Taiwan Technical Mission become a resource in best practices for Saint Lucian agricultural operations,” Chen said.

Her first responsibility will be focusing on the market side, including utilizing data collected from the agricultural resource system, and analyzing market demand for local vegetable consumption.

This analysis will help vegetable farmers and farmers’ cooperatives plan off-season vegetable production with a goal of increasing market access for local produce.

The Taiwanese TV drama “New World”

will be airing on NTN channel on May 10th, 2019

THE STAR

O

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MAY 04, 2019

INTERNATIONAL

17

Court endorses discrimination, rules Caster Semenya must undergo medical intervention to compete

n Wednesday in Switzerland, the Court of Arbitration in Sports (CAS) explicitly endorsed discrimination with a devastating ruling that could have a long-lasting impact on the inclusivity and humanity of women’s sports.

The ruling upheld the ability for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) to implement regulations directly targeting athletes with differences in sex development (DSD). People with DSD—which is commonly referred to as intersex—might have hormones, genes, or reproductive organs that develop outside the gender binary. Last year, South African championship runner Caster Semenya and Athletics South Africa (ASA) challenged the IAAF’s DSD regulations, on the grounds that they were discriminatory.

“I just want to run naturally, the way I was born. It is not fair that I am told I must change. It is not fair that people question who I am,” Semenya said in a statement when she issued the challenge. “I am Mokgadi Caster Semenya. I am a woman and I am fast.”

Now, Semenya—and all women who have naturallyoccurring levels of testosterone above five nanamoles per liter (nmol/L) and compete in IAAF events from 400 meters to a mile—will have to take drugs or undergo an invasive surgery to reduce their testosterone levels below the threshold for at least six months prior to competition.

If they do not want to do that, they are free to compete with men, or compete in intersex categories, if such categories are available.

The DSD regulations only impact an individual with XY chromosomes; those with XX chromosomes are not subject to any restrictions or regulations under the guidelines. They are, by nature, targeted discrimination against women—a fact from which the CAS panel did not hide.

“The Panel found that the DSD Regulations are discriminatory, but the majority of the Panel found that, on the basis of the evidence submitted by the parties, such discrimination is a necessary, reasonable, and proportionate means of achieving the IAAF’s aim of preserving the integrity of female athletics in the

Caster Semenya of South Africa runs in the 800m during the 2017 Classic Diamond League at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon on May 27, 2017.

Restricted Events,” the ruling states. But Dr. Katrina Karkazis, a senior fellow with the global health justice partnership at Yale University, and the author of the upcoming book, Testosterone: An Unauthorized Biography, balks at the notion that it’s necessary to discriminate against women to safeguard women’s sports.

“It’s disappointing that it endorses discrimination against women in sport and allows sports governing bodies to require medically unnecessary interventions for continued eligibility, violating women’s bodily autonomy and integrity. This neither protects nor benefits women’s sport,” Karkazis said in a statement provided to ThinkProgress on Wednesday.

While this CAS ruling will have broad consequences, it’s crucial to note that its genesis was transparently targeted to halt Semenya’s dominance. The only events that are subject to these regulations are those between 400m and a mile; Semenya is a two-time Olympic medalist in the 800m, and occasionally competes in the 400m and 1500m, though her success in those races has been much more limited.

“I know that the IAAF’s regulations have always targeted me specifically,” Semenya said in a statement on Wednesday. “For a decade the IAAF has tried to slow me down, but this has actually made me stronger. The decision of the CAS will not hold me back.

I will once again rise above and continue to inspire young women and athletes in South Africa and around the world.”

The IAAF seems to have been out to get Semenya ever since she won a gold medal in the 800m at the 2009 world championships as an 18-yearold phenom. Instead of being celebrated, the 5’10” black woman was immediately scrutinized; the IAAF even broke its own confidentiality policy by announcing publicly that it was investigating her gender.

Since then, it’s been an ongoing battle. In 2011, the IAAF made its first attempt to regulate the amount of naturally-occurring testosterone permitted in cisgender women.

But in 2015, Indian sprinter Dutee Chand challenged these regulations. That time, CAS ruled in her favor, and suspended the IAAF’s testosterone regulations for two years.

But the IAAF was not deterred. In 2017, it published and promoted a study concluding that female athletes with higher testosterone levels than their peers had a 1.8 to 4.5 per cent performance advantage. Their methods were criticized by experts like Karkazis, but even if the results were taken at face value, they didn’t go far enough to prove the IAAF’s thesis. After all, male athletes have approximately a 10 per cent advantage over their female peers; 1.8 to 4.5 per cent is well below that threshold. Additionally, the 1.8 to 4.5 per cent advantage cited in the study was only applicable to five events—the biggest advantages came in hammer throw and pole vault, and the smallest advantages in the 400m, 400m hurdles, and 800m events. Yet, hammer throw and pole vault, two sports that are

not dominated by women of color from the global south, are not subject to these regulations.

Semenya is a black, muscular, lesbian woman whose body and style do not conform to traditional notions of femininity. And she just so happens to dominate her sport.

These regulations go out of their way to exploit transphobia, racism, homophobia, and sexism, to punish her and others like her from competing in the bodies in which they were born.

More than 60 elite athletes across women’s sports— including tennis legend Billie Jean King, U.S. women’s national team soccer stars Megan Rapinoe and Abby Wambach, and WNBA All-Star Layshia Clarendon—signed a letter last summer condemning the DSD regulations. “These regulations continue the invasive surveillance and judgment of women’s bodies that have long tainted women’s sport,” the letter reads.

“They intensify the unfair scrutiny that female

athletes already experience and exacerbate discrimination against women in sport who are perceived as not prescribing to normative ideas about femininity, which can include their appearance, their gender expression, and their sexuality.”

Last April, South African Professor Steve Cornelius resigned from the IAAF’s Disciplinary Tribunal because he was horrified by the racist nature of these regulations.

“The adoption of the new eligibility regulations for female classification is based on the same kind of ideology that has led to some of the worst injustices and atrocities in the history of our planet,” Cornelius told ThinkProgress at the time.

The CAS ruling was a split decision—meaning there was a dissenting arbitrator in the group. And alarmingly, the panel admitted that it had significant concerns about the implementation of the rule, and that side effects from hormonal treatment might make it a practical impossibility to comply with these regulations.

This is an incredibly legitimate concern—hormones fluctuate naturally, even when being unnaturally suppressed by medically unnecessary means.

However, because the framework of the arbitration limited the CAS panel to determining merely whether or not DSD regulations were invalid, it ultimately sided with the IAAF. Semenya, of course, will keep fighting, just like she always has.

“Ms. Semenya believes that the dissenting CAS arbitrator will be shown to be correct and the DSD regulations will be overturned,” her spokesperson said on Wednesday. “In the interim, Ms. Semenya believes that it is irresponsible for the IAAF to proceed with the implementation of the DSD regulations in circumstances where the CAS decision makes it abundantly clear that there are serious problems with the regulations that need to be carefully considered and the DSD regulations will unquestionably cause harm to the women affected by them.”

---ThinkProgress

18

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MAY 04, 2019 THE STAR

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Statement by Ambassador Sung Moonup, Korean Ambassador to Saint Lucia

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his year the Republic of Korea (ROK) and Saint Lucia celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. As the ambassador of ROK to Saint Lucia, I wish to convey greetings and congratulations from Korea to the people of Saint Lucia on this momentous occasion.

Over the past four decades, ROK and Saint Lucia have forged close ties of friendship based on our shared values of freedom, democracy and peace.

In turn, these same values cherished by our two countries have further enabled our partnership to grow and flourish over the years.

Allow me to highlight two distinct layers of cooperation under which Korea and Saint Lucia have collaborated closely since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Firstly, on the bilateral level, our mutual understanding and policy coordination has been enhanced with a number of high-level exchanges and various capacity building programmes, particularly in the areas of natural disaster response and climate change adaptation. Sir John Compton, the then Prime Minister, was the first high-level visit to Korea in 1984 and since then there have been several high-level visits to Korea on various occasions including the High-Level Korea-Caribbean Partnership Forum, which has been an important channel between the two countries since 2011. In addition, a number of Saint Lucian government officials have benefited from professional training in areas of pressing needs, such as airport construction and security, community development and correction service management.

Secondly, at the global level, both the Republic of Korea and Saint Lucia have been enjoying a close partnership on various international platforms including United Nations by rendering of mutual support and consolidating partnership on various issues: economics, human rights, climate change, peace, etc. Many challenges facing the world from environmental issues

Korean Ambassador Sung Moonup looks forward to celebrating forty years of cultural and diplomatic exchange with Saint Lucia.

to terrorism are borderless in nature and thus require concerted efforts among all nations. I look forward to continuing and increasing collaboration between the Government of Korea and Saint Lucia in this regard.

It is my sincere hope that the 40th anniversary of the establishment of our ties offers a fresh momentum for us to reinforce the close bonds that unite us stronger. I believe that the existing friendship can be further expanded to a new area of partnership such as ‘digital economy’. Given that Korea is known to have a well-established information, communication, technology (ICT) infrastructure and high Internet penetration, digital economy is a promising field for the two countries to explore.

With Korea being one of the most dynamic economic powerhouses in the world, and Saint Lucia a nation of two Nobel laureates, I look forward to working together hand in hand with the shared aspirations of making the world a more peaceful and prosperous place.

On peace and security, the Korean government together with members of the international community is embarking on a journey of

bringing about lasting peace on the Korean peninsula. As the Caribbean region is known for its strong advocacy for peace, I look forward to the future for the continued support of the region in consolidating a positive transition on the Korean peninsula. In this regard, I wish to thank the Government of Saint Lucia for its unswerving support and dedication to international peace.

In order to commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties, the Korean government is planning to host various events in Saint Lucia. On 15th May, a Korean cultural team comprised of music and B-Boy dancing will perform in Castries. Later this year, the Korean Embassy will also showcase some selected Korean films at the cinemas in Saint Lucia. I hope this would offer another valuable opportunity for the people of Saint Lucia to experience Korean culture.

By virtue of this complementary partnership and building upon our future friendship, I look forward to even more solid bonds of cooperation between Saint Lucia and Korea. I wish all the best and happiness of the people of Saint Lucia.

THE STAR

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MAY 04, 2019

Project: Castries Market Redevelopment Public Notice NOTICE INVITATION TO TENDER The Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) Inc. is inviting proposals from qualified firms of certified accountants to audit its financial statements for the fiscal year 2018.

The proposal must be valid for at least 60 Days. The audit period is 01 January 2018 through 31 December 2018 (one year).

Tenders are to be submitted to: The Chief Executive Officer ECCO Inc. Julian Charles Rd. Sans Souci PO Box CP5380 Castries, St. Lucia Deadline for submission is: Friday, 17th May, 2019 ECCO operates within 6 OECS territories with its headquarters in Castries, St. Lucia.

Should you have any questions or queries feel free to contact us at the following numbers or email address below: Tel:- (758) 451 6436, Fax:- (758) 451 6437 Email:- ecco@eccorights.org

“PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT”.

The Castries Market Redevelopment Project is here – transforming the vending climate for the benefit of locals and visitors alike.

As a result, the Provisions Market Vendors will be relocated to the Old Fire Service Site on Jeremie Street to accommodate the first phase of the much anticipated Castries Market Redevelopment Project Holiday Taxi Operators will also be temporarily relocated to the east bound end of the William Peter Boulvard, effective immediately. This relocation applies only on Cruise Ship days.

The Canaries bus stand is also relocated to adjacent the La Clery bus stop.

Motorists and the general public are encouraged to observe all traffic and directional signs posted for public safety.

For more information, please call the Communications Office at the Castries Constituency Council at 4522121.

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