Pierre Says SLP Does Not Like Chastanet! DUH!

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Pierre says SLP does not like Chastanet!

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Windies cricketer Qiana Joseph

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National Flags Parade opens ARC 2018

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Portuaria de Las Palmas (President of the Port Authority), Señor Juan Jose Cardona welcomed crews on behalf of the Tourist Board of Gran Canaria and the Port Authority and wished them 'bon voyage' for a good crossing to the Caribbean.

Coming to see the crews' preparations and personally wish them well on the voyage, Guy Mayers High Commissioner for Saint Lucia in London promised the sailors warm weather and a warm welcome when they arrive in Rodney Bay. "The festive atmosphere and marching alongside the participants has been very exciting, and I am very glad to have been part of this morning's Opening Ceremony," he said.

The ARC fleet will set off this year with 178 entries from 30 different countries and is truly a multinational celebration which showcases the international flavour of the rally. The attraction to sail in company as one fleet has continued to have undaunted appeal. Some will be on their first crossing whilst others are making their umpteenth voyage.

Fifteen boats will be sailing across with children and 32 will be part of a family adventure this year, with the youngest crew member being 18 months old on the Dutch yacht Chubby

Bunny.

The ARC is very diverse and attracts boats of all sizes and design. This year is no exception, the smallest being the British Halmatic 30, Excalibur at 8.99m, and then there's the mighty Malteseflagged 39m Vitters one-off, G2 at the larger end of the size range—and everything in between! There has been a significant swing towards multihulls this year and 36 catamarans will be on the start line. The average cruising boat can expect to arrive at Rodney Bay in 18 to 21 days, but the competitive Racing Division, which will see 21 boats vying for position, will hope to reach the rum punch much sooner.

World Cruising Club, together with local supporters including the Tourist Board of Gran Canaria and the Ayuntamiento de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Port Authority and local chandlery Rolnautic, organised an extensive programme for the participants including free seminars led by some of the most respected cruising sailors and marine specialists in the industry. The famous ARC social programme is a fun way for participants to get to know one another, and form an Atlantic crossing community before they head out to sea.

CASTRIES MAYOR CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY WITH FRENCH CARIBBEAN NEIGHBOURS

he Mayor of Castries, His Worship Peterson D. Francis has called for deeper collaboration between Saint Lucia and Caribbean French territories.

Mayor Francis has emphasized the significance of stronger relationships based on shared values of sincerity and inclusivity, and the need to work together to stimulate greater development and diversity.

Speaking at the 28th anniversary celebrations of the Association Ste Lucie/ Territoires Francais Des Ameriques (Association of St. Lucia and French Territories of the Americas) on Sunday, the mayor articulated the need to

deepen bonds and strengthen partnerships which can contribute to the development of Saint Lucia.

“I hope today will be inspired by friendship, for friendship deepens bonds and strengthens partnerships. I hope today will highlight the role of development, for it is development which gives hope and creates the energy for progress. And I also hope today brings about the spirit of association, for it is the spirit of association which gives birth to new ideas, new visions and new missions,” he said.

Mayor Francis continued, “May you facilitate cultural, sporting and educational activities and promote and

encourage improved living and socio-economic conditions. On behalf of the City of Castries and the people of Saint Lucia I express gratitude and congratulatory greetings to you all on the 28th anniversary celebration of your organisation.

I expect that in the future we will see strengthened association with more formal contributions and allocations based on your transparency, principles and procedures”.

The 28th anniversary celebrations of the Association Ste Lucie/Territoires Francais Des Ameriques (Association of St. Lucia and French Territories of the Americas) took place at JJ’s Paradise Resort in Marigot.

PM gets down in the stands to the beat of Dennery Segment

A smiling Saint Lucian delegation was at the helm of the ARC opening celebrations.

he boats and crews taking part in the 33rd edition of the ARC—the world's largest trans-ocean rally for cruisers—are in their temporary 'home' of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Last Sunday, it was time to mark the official opening ceremony of ARC 2018. With a spectacular, noisy and colourful carnival procession around the Las Palmas marina, crews from 30 different nations waved their national flags patriotically and got into the spirit of the event.

Following the principal flags of Spain, Gran Canaria and Saint Lucia, the international conga line was led by La Charanga de la Aldea, with the Batucada Timbalao beating a salsa rhythm at the back of the line. Once the procession had completed its parade around the marina, sailors were welcomed to the ARC by World Cruising Club's Managing Director Andrew Bishop.

Tomorrow, Sunday 25 November, the fleet will begin its ocean adventure and say farewell to Gran Canaria.

Andrew Bishop thanked the Tourist Board of Gran Canaria and the Ayuntamiento de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for their support, and praised the Port Authority that manages the marina for accommodating the vast number of ARC boats year on year.

Presidente del Autoridad

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet had a ball watching the West Indies ladies defeat their English counterparts at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds last Sunday.

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f there’s one thing that can be said about Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, it is that he is not known for staying in what some describe as “comfort zones”. Allen Chastanet obviously enjoys stepping out of his lane, regardless of possible risks. It is something that scares the heck out of his detractors.

At most events—carnival, sporting or otherwise—the VIP area never quite seems to hold his attention for long.

At last Sunday’s ICC Women’s T20 Tournament at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds, our outta-da-box PM could not be contained by his own VIP

box or by those of others next door: Sandals or the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority. After all, why spend more time in a stiff room, boozing and stuffing your face with folks you see every day, when you can get down in the stands to mingle freely with fun people—and from which vantage you are afforded a more macro view of the cricketing ladies? Small wonder the PM took in most of last Sunday’s play surrounded by wellwishers and their offspring.

He received quite an ovation following his short interview with host JW, which was beamed on the large

screen at the Beausejour stadium.

Prime Minister Chastanet also showed he is indeed a strong supporter of Saint Lucian culture when he got down with an energetic female fan to the Dennery Segment.

The PM also reached out to the dozens of English cricket fans who had travelled to Saint Lucia especially for the games.

Hopefully he remembered to offer them words of comfort after the trouncing our West Indies ladies handed the English team on Sunday.

---Toni Nicholas

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

SLU Christmas_PRT 7.5x10 Prepaid Smartphone.pdf

Ambassador Shen happily giving a speech during the signing ceremony.

Taiwan and Saint Lucia ink New Agriculture Cooperation Action Plan

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he agricultural cooperation between Saint Lucia and Taiwan entered a new phase as an action plan to upgrade Saint Lucia’s agricultural supply chain was inked on Wednesday, November 21, 2018.

H. E. Douglas Shen, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, and the Honourable Ezechiel Joseph, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Co-operatives put their signature to the “Enhancing the efficiency of production-distribution supply chain in fruit and vegetable sector Project” document on behalf of their respective governments.

As well as improving the supply chain, this new project encompasses climate change adaption, protected structure cultivation and postharvest processing and packaging techniques. By establishing a stable supply chain and assisting farmers’ cooperatives develop a corporate-like production and marketing structure, the project also aims to increase the volume of local produce sold to domestic markets.

At the signing ceremony, Ambassador Douglas Shen said that Taiwan and Saint Lucia have worked together on the Fruit and Vegetable Demonstration and Extension Project-Phase II in the past three years, which has steadily fulfilled the goal of raising local farmers’ competitiveness and their income. He expects the new project to greatly enhance the field-to-market connection for them by establishing such mechanisms as the agricultural information system, farmer certification system and produce traceability system.

Hon. Ezechiel Joseph expressed gratitude to the government of Taiwan for its contributions in assisting the agricultural development of Saint Lucia. He expects the new project to greatly reduce the need to import foreign produce, now totaling over US$8 million. He also expressed confidence in local farmers’ foreseeable ability to supply vegetables and fruits all year round via the establishment of an agricultural intelligence.

The new project will be implemented over a three-year period. In the first year, major focus will be put on enhancing the efficacy of the production and marketing supply chain. Thereafter attention will be paid to climate change adaption, protected structure cultivation and post-harvest processing and packaging techniques.

The new phase of agricultural cooperation project will be jointly implemented by the Taiwan Technical Mission and Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Agriculture.

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L-R: Minister Ezechiel Joseph, Taiwan Ambassador Douglas Shen and 6 2018-11-22 1:12 PM Herod Stanislas witness another agricultural agreement.

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Will ‘New Prime Minister by December’ Prove Just Another Politician’s Promise?

By Rick Wayne

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have good reason to recall the ambitious island-wide indoor rap sessions with SLP supporters, attended largely by the age group politicians love to refer to as “the youth,” and too often talk down to, as if indeed they were children especially slow on the uptake: forty years and under.

What I’m not so clear about is whether the get-togethers were part of the first campaign to get Kenny Anthony elected. Actually they may have followed the Labour Party’s unprecedented 16-1 victory in 1997. Our various panels usually included Mario Michel, George Odlum, Claudius Francis and your never so humble servant.

Our audiences were mostly receptive and responsive. But there was one particular session at the old Laborie police station that almost went awry. Something George said to attendees had not gone down well with fellow panelist Mario, well known back in the day for his advertised low tolerance of egoistic cow dung that did not emanate from him. He quickly dismissed George as someone addicted to the sound of his own voice. To which George pointedly replied: “My words can make or break governments.” Mario, who had never forgiven the Big Brother for his role in the debacle that resulted in the April 1981

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The SLP-sponsored “people’s rally” in September was a sunny affair. Will their promised Christmas gift to supporters have to wait a while longer?

resignation of Prime Minister Allan Louisy, fired back: “The only government you ever brought down was your own. And there’s a name for that!”

Whatever name Mario Michel had in mind, when the 1979 prime minister reneged on their secret promise that he would demit office in Odlum’s favor after six months, the dagger the would-be inheritor used vengefully to cut out his pound of flesh from the beleaguered Louisy’s skinny behind was a Motion of No-Confidence! Of course, Odlum did not act alone. So much for Proustian remembrances of things past. On Tuesday the leader of the House opposition handed to the clerk of parliament a motion of “no-confidence in the prime minister and minister of finance” Allen Chastanet.

In truth the stated reasons for the SLP’s lack of confidence in the prime minister amounted

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to stale fish wrapped in not so fresh paper—déjà vu: the unfilled position of deputy Speaker more than two years after the UWP was elected to office; ostensibly “irrational decisions” taken; lack of transparency in the operations of the CIP; the government’s alleged mishandling of the health-care service.

This week’s no-confidence motion, unlike its earlier mentioned relative, has had little impact. Hardly surprising, when compared with the 79-82 atmosphere (see pages 6-7).

At the SLP-sponsored “people’s protest rally” two months ago, one of the more prominent

speakers pledged that “Saint Lucia will have a new prime minister by December.” As if further to reassure the audience, he added: “And I will lead the charge.”

Soon afterward, the party that Philip J. Pierre now leads served public notice that it would place before the House the motion he handed this week to the clerk of parliament. With so many bills already scheduled for debate on Tuesday—the prime minister’s birthday!—the last thing on the government’s mind was Pierre’s Motion of No-Confidence. This being a Christian country (wink! wink!) chances are it won’t be tabled

during the month that Christ was born . . . or any time soon.

In all events, when was the last time a Rock of Sages event kicked off at the advertised time? The SLP’s September “people’s rally” was two hours behind schedule. Even the most recent no-confidence motion was delivered more than a month behind time. Evidently the “better days” $100 million check promised back in 2011 was returned to sender. And lest we forget, can anyone recall the last time a parliamentary session started on time?

Certainly not Tuesday’s!

KIWANIS Host 1st Divisional Council Meeting

oday, Saturday November 24, 2018, the Kiwanis Club of Castries will host the 1st Divisional Council Meeting (DCM) of Division 27 of the Eastern Canada & Caribbean (EC&C) District of Kiwanis International for the new administrative year 2018/2019.

The meeting, which will be held this evening at the Bay Gardens Hotel, will be chaired by Lieutenant Governor Ken Knight of Barbados. His special guest will be Governor of the Eastern & Caribbean District, Melford Clarke from Nassau, Bahamas. Several delegates and Kiwanians from across the region are expected to represent their various

clubs from Antigua, St. Kitts, Dominica, Barbados, Martinique and host country Saint Lucia.

At the meeting, clubs are expected to report on the many successful projects undertaken for the last quarter and exchange ideas and best practices to tailor these projects to adapt to respective locales.

District Governor Melford Clarke will update the clubs on the District and International Goals for the remainder of

the administrative year, as well as the latest projects and programmes of Kiwanis International focusing on the theme ‘Serving the Children of the World’.

This afternoon, Governor Melford Clarke and Lieutenant Governor Ken Knight are also expected to attend the official handing-over ceremony of the recently refurbished ‘Tiny Tots Section’ of the Central Library by the Kiwanis Club of Castries to the Head Librarian. The

ceremony will commence at 2.30 pm and representatives of the various visiting clubs are expected to donate books to augment the reading material for the 0-5 age group.

To culminate the evening, the Kiwanis Club of Castries will celebrate its 34th anniversary with a Gala Fundraising Dinner and Dance which will take place at the Bay Gardens Beach Resort.

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Was treachery at the heart of the no-confidence vote that sank the SLP in 1982?

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he 1981 Budget debate had all the ingredients of a Hollywood soap opera: intrigue, unimaginable deception, double dealing, criminal accusations, unintended comedy—not to say the ever-present possibility of parliamentary fisticuffs. Then there was the question of Peter Josie’s loyalty. Long before he became an MP, he and George Odlum were like Siamese twins inseparably conjoined at their hearts. Lately, however, things had changed. More and more, Josie was reconsidering his relationship with the increasingly chameleonic Odlum. At the height of the factional dispute between Prime Minister Allan Louisy and his deputy George Odlum, while Josie was enjoying an extended vacation in New York, he received word that Odlum had decided to play by Louisy’s rules. Upon returning home, Josie told inquiring reporters how he felt about Odlum’s publicized change of heart and his declared readiness to work “with any Cabinet that emerges in the future.”

Josie had been Odlum’s chief campaigner for the office occupied by Allan Louisy.

He had written to his prime minister a two-page letter and, in terms many considered demeaning, cautioned him to keep his promise and step down in favor of “an obviously more talented Odlum.” No surprise that Josie was extremely disappointed by his friend’s latest decision. He said he considered Odlum’s most recent volte-face sickening proof that he was merely spouting hot air when he talked about certain principles that prevented him from sitting in

Cabinet with corrupt individuals.

Nevertheless, with Budget Day around the corner, Josie sat down with Odlum, perchance to reconcile their differences and consider the political possibilities still open to them.

From Odlum’s perspective, the Budget debate represented the perfect opportunity to force Louisy to stand down as prime minister. Yes, he was back to his original position.

He cited Section 55 (4b) of the Constitution Order: “If a Resolution of no Confidence in the government is passed by the House and the prime minister does not within three days resign or advise a dissolution, the governor general, acting in his own deliberate judgment, may dissolve parliament.” In which event fresh general elections would follow. Risky business.

On the other hand there was Section 55 (2b): “In the exercise of his powers to dissolve parliament the governor general shall act in accordance with the advice of the prime minister: provided that if the prime minister advises a dissolution and the governor general, acting in his own deliberate judgment, considers that the government of Saint Lucia can be carried on without a dissolution and that a dissolution would not be in the interest of Saint Lucia, he may, acting in his own deliberate judgment, refuse to dissolve parliament.” In which case the MP that commands the most support in the House will be sworn in as prime minister— without an election and its attendant risks.

Odlum fully expected the five opposition UWP parliamentarians to support a Motion of No Confidence

against the government. They had nothing to lose. But even with the cooperation of his own 3-man faction, the combined numbers in the House would still not be sufficient to unseat Louisy—who could safely count on the support of at least seven Labour MPs. Peter Josie’s vote was, therefore, absolutely crucial. Somehow, Odlum would have to reel in his old buddy. No easy task, considering Odlum’s private suspicion that Josie— encouraged by the CIA—had cut his own lucrative deal with Allan Louisy. As if to make matters worse, shortly before leaving home for the House on the final day of the debate, Odlum took a call from eminence grise Victor Fadelin that confirmed a nagging fear: in the best interests of the government, Josie had decided to play it safe and cast his vote for Louisy, despite an earlier contrary promise to Odlum.

For a full hour on the morning of 14 April 1981, George Odlum, the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Foreign Affairs, addressed not so much the provisions as the author of what he referred to as a “bikini budget that reveals what is suggestive but conceals what is vital.” (He took full credit for Professor Aaron Levenstein’s original line about statistics.)

Odlum was of the view that Allan Louisy lacked the will to implement his own Budget, and cited several examples of what he described as the prime minister’s effeteness. He also offered a hint of what it was like being a member of a divided government, with the right hand not knowing what the left was doing. The local tourism industry had come close to losing the vital services of a particular airline, Odlum revealed, largely

because the prime minister, mindlessly pulling rank, insisted on dragging his feet. Bypassing his indecisive leader, Odlum said, he grabbed the bull by the horns and gave the airline the sought after official assurances.

It took another two weeks before the full Cabinet entered the picture and agreed to accommodate the airline. Only then did it come to light that single-handedly he had saved the day by doing on time what needed to be done, regardless of the possible consequences to his career.

Considering how often he had criticized the Compton administration for its square pegs in round holes, he said, how ironic that he should now find himself a member of another government comprising even more square pegs in the roundest of holes. “What is it about these government benches that once we sit on them we fall into the quicksand of corruption?” he asked, eyes fixed on the Speaker. He had been working for some ten years, he said, on a secret project: from his earliest days with the Forum he had tried to recruit a small nucleus of principled men who were at one on “certain fundamental issues concerning this country, its conduct, its economy, its social and political life . . . a body of brothers that Saint Lucia would be proud of.”

While listening to the contributors to the previous day’s debate, it had occurred to him that a blind man would have had no trouble identifying those who spoke with commitment. “When you hear the Honorable Minister for Agriculture describing his purpose, the functions and operations of his ministry,” he said, “when you consider the organized, analytical way he tackles his tasks, then you know the value of the period of his apprenticeship.” Their relationship from the late 1960s had always been peculiar, he said. They were like brothers in search of truth and principle.

A dapper Peter Josie smiles for the camera.

Was he influenced to vote against Allan Louisy’s 1981-82 Budget by the words of his close friend George Odlum?

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

He taught his brother what he knew and his brother brought him back to relating with their country’s farmers and workers.

His academic experience had taken him away from that. His brother lived off him and he lived off his brother. They gave to each other equally.

Sometimes their relationship resembled that of teacher and student. Josie was always far more in touch with “the masses and the people.”

Odlum’s own generous gift to his brother in search of truth was “the educational stimulus, the organizational material that makes him the formidable politician he is today.”

Undeniably, they had come a long way together.

As Odlum surveyed the parliamentary chamber, he saw men “with whom we might’ve worked in a combined effort to create a cadre above public ridicule, above the tentacles of corruption; men shining with ideals, standing above the materialism that seems to dominate our thinking.” Also among the assembled were “some we attempted to bring into this cadre, into this orbit.”

They fell by the wayside, said Odlum, his voice cracking.

He recalled the movement that died shortly after taking its first steps. By his calculated diagnosis, “political tentacles choked the life out of SLAM.” Its few survivors had little choice but to move into the “bosom of the Labour Party, the natural habitat for thinking that is rooted in the development of the ordinary man,” in the best interests of the principles of “an emerging working-class consciousness.” Within the Labour Party, they started their creative work. They took a party that was “in the wilderness, drifting and rudderless, without leadership, and by sheer hard work and sacrifice remade it into a viable political machine.”

They started from the bottom, “at the grassroots level.” They worked with the unions, brought to the nation’s black people “a new feeling of dignity.” And for that they were “berated, derided as black-power advocates and racist,” never mind that their detractors knew the opposite was true.

Despite all of that, said Odlum, he and his political brother Peter Josie shouldered their burdens. They often reminded each other that it was up to them to do “the dirty work of increasing the consciousness of the people”—teaching them that the black man had to pull himself up by his boot straps if he hoped to achieve success. It was a bad time for a people whose history had

created in them “a murderous inferiority complex.” With his brother Josie he took them from “a quagmire of hopelessness and imbued them with a new vision that was taken into the Saint Lucia Labour Party,” Odlum said. They explained to the party the true meaning of social consciousness. It meant taking “responsibility for ensuring that the national cake is redistributed.” As it had been with a more widely recognized Messiah, so Odlum’s own rewards were betrayal and disappointment. “Today I am often falsely accused by people who know better,” he said. “I am called a dictator, a communist. Why? Is it because I said the haves of this country must forego some of their excesses in the interest of the less fortunate of their communities? It’s the only way to establish an effective redistribution of this country’s resources.”

He acknowledged that the future was anything but bright.

Being part of a government that valued party loyalty over objective criticism—and numbers over all else—only made matters worse. Reverting to his days as a schoolteacher imbuing his student with the tools that would make him a “formidable politician,” Odlum turned his attention once again to the Minister for Agriculture.

“We must learn to appreciate a man for his principles,” he said.

“We must help him, not pull him down.” He shuffled some papers on the table in front of him.

“I come now to the sensitive matter of the leadership quarrel that has caused me as much pain as I am sure it has caused the Honorable Prime Minister.” But not for long. He soon returned to Josie, to their earliest days with the Labour Party when his friend often counterpointed his thinking, as he had counterpointed his friend’s—“almost like a Greek chorus.”

“In those days,” he recalled, they discussed everything, regardless of time or place,“whether driving, consuming corned beef in the countryside, or during organized demonstrations.” They always assessed their thoughts, one against the other. When they were about to join the Labour Party, Josie had a particular concern: he couldn’t figure out Allan Louisy’s reason for enlisting.

“At that time,” said Odlum, “there was a leadership dispute in the party that, strangely enough, did not involve me directly.” The chamber roared, the first interruption since the MP started his address. Odlum’s

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own countenance continued to reflect the seriousness of the moment, at any rate, as he saw it. He picked up from where he was interrupted: “Mr. Kenneth Foster was a contender for the party leadership. Actually, he was the de facto leader but there was a move to replace him. The current representative for East Castries took me aside and for the umpteenth time said: ‘I still cannot fathom why Louisy wants to enter politics. I suppose we’ll just have to take our chances.’ He was not alone.

Others in my group were of the view that it was better to take a chance on the devil you know.”

The devil being Kenneth Foster.

“After the 1974 elections,” said Odlum, “we realized that many of the promises of organization were being ignored. But ’74 was only the first leg. Things were different in 1979.” He and his faction took on the brunt of the work. Then, with Polling Day approaching, the party leader confided in him that he no longer looked forward to being prime minister.

He said he hated airplanes, and he hated to travel. “He said we were the young ones,” Odlum recalled, “and it would be up to us to do most of the necessary work. ‘Just give me a couple of months. Maybe six, no more than a year.’”

Odlum’s reaction was by his word always the same: “Why do you need to serve for so short a time? What’s the point?” He had learned to respect Peter Josie’s hunches.

Soon he, too, found himself giving a lot of thought to “the strange obsession.” Over and over he questioned himself about Louisy’s motives. Finally, it dawned on him that the more important question centered on “legitimacy”—on whether Louisy had done anything to deserve his position. The answer was obvious: others had done the work for which Louisy intended to be rewarded! Odlum paused, smiled, dramatically lowered his head. “I am one of those creatures that do not harbor dark thoughts,” he said. “I wear my heart on my sleeve. I say what I’m thinking at all times, often to my detriment.” He had repeatedly referred to powerful members of his party as “gargoyles”—despite that “any fool knows this is no way to win your executive’s support.” But then when you are surrounded by “a certain type you have little choice but to call a spade a spade.”

He started to say something about the prime minister’s own assessment of his party executive when the House Speaker got in his way:

“Honorable Member, are you about to go into the structure of the Saint Lucia Labour Party?” Another moment of levity, whether or not intended.

Political positions set aside, the audience laughed. Even Louisy managed a distorted smile, but not Odlum.“ Yes, Mr. Speaker,” he said, his face set in stone.

“I strayed. I wanted to deal with the leadership issue but I realize I must move on.” If in painting his prime minister’s portrait Odlum inadvertently omitted a carbuncle or two, well, the model completed the picture. Louisy spoke for more than an hour but nothing in what he said contradicted his Minister for Foreign Affairs. His pathetic attempts at responses to Odlum’s allegations only generated more unsettling questions. As for the suggestion that he lacked the necessary vision, the will and the strength of purpose to implement his own Budget, the best Louisy could do was obsequiously acknowledge a prime minister could not without the full support of his Cabinet deliver on his promises.

Repeatedly, the Leader of the Opposition demanded Louisy’s resignation. When at last the prime minister chose to respond, he said he would willingly step down if his party asked him to, but nothing the opposition might say would force him out. Besides, he said, the matter of his handing over to another elected MP was for the executive to decide. On his own, he did not have the constitutional authority to act.

Turning wearily to the Speaker, the prime minister said: “I think I have occupied a long time in my reply. At this stage, I would just like to thank you.” He had barely taken his seat when the Speaker nodded in his direction.

Once more the obviously wornout old man was on his feet. He seemed to have aged ten years in the final hours of the debate.

“Mr. Speaker,” he groaned, “I beg to move that the Standing Orders be suspended to allow the House to sit between the hours of 6:00 pm and 7:30 p.m.”

Confusion followed the opposition leader’s demand for a vote count. At 6:15 the prime minister called for a ten-minute recess. Seven minutes later, the House resumed. The Speaker agreed to refer the Estimates of Expenditure back to the House to determine who supported it, who didn’t. The nays easily overwhelmed the ayes. Still someone shouted: “Division!

Division!” On the Speaker’s nod, the House clerk went from MP to MP and when each had stated his position on the issue, announced the final count: eight

for the prime minister’s Budget, nine against. The agriculture minister Peter Josie had cast his vote with the opposition. For George Odlum, more proof of the power of his oratory!

The Leader of the Opposition stood up: “Mr. Speaker, I beg to give notice of the following motion that must be debated in accordance with the House Rules and Orders: that this honorable House has no confidence in the government.” The rest was mere formality. On 23 April 1981, Allan Louisy delivered his final address as Prime Minister of Saint Lucia: “My Dear People: I have tried as prime minister of this country since the Saint Lucia Labour Party formed the government on July 4, 1979 to get the wheels of government moving. Up to a point I’ve been successful. However, the task has not been easy; not because of the unwillingness of Saint Lucians to assist me but because of a senseless leadership struggle within the government that was apparently solved in August 1980 but raised its ugly head again in November 1980, the reason for which I am unaware. I have been honestly and sincerely hopeful that this matter would have been solved and so I maintained my position, not as I have been accused of, for the sake of holding on to power come what may, but because I felt I had a responsibility to the people of Saint Lucia, the majority of whom put my party in power. However, the defeat of the government on the 1981-82 budget indicated to me clearly, from statements made by my ministers, that they wanted a new captain.

“The vote against the Budget was not constitutionally a no-confidence vote against the government. It was a vote against me, personally.

It would, therefore, be unjust and unconstitutional, on that premise by itself, to have requested a dissolution of the House. More so, since the verbal notice given in the House by the Leader of the Opposition to table a Motion of No-Confidence against the government has not been effected. In any event, I was supported by the majority of my ministers. In pursuance of my pledge to find another captain after the vote against the budget, I immediately proceeded to hold meetings day and night with my ministers and other responsible persons and of late these proceedings looked favorable.

“Last night, without prior notice or warning, I was suddenly visited at the prime minister’s residence by a

07

delegation from the Civil Service Association. The delegation was well received by me in an atmosphere of mutual calm. I explained the circumstances of the impasse and informed the delegation that the deliberation looked fruitful. In the interim and with a view to finalizing the issue I dispatched one of my ministers with a companion to ascertain the whereabouts of the Honorable Remy Lesmond who, incidentally, had earlier indicated in writing his support for a new prime minister, which might well have settled successfully the issue. Sad enough and far beyond my control, I was informed that the Honorable Remy Lesmond had left the state this morning on the yacht Halcyon, together with ministers George and Jon Odlum, accompanied by one Victor Ducane and Mrs. Frances Michel. Consequently, the final proceedings have been delayed through no fault of mine.

“It is for you, my people, to decide whether at this juncture their departure was calculated to aggravate the present situation. In the meantime, I’ve received a letter from the Civil Service Association, in spite of my assurance given to them in good faith and which to me they seemed to appreciate. I am informed by the association that industrial action will be taken by workers in all government departments and ministries effective 6:00 a.m. tomorrow April 24, 1981 and that such action will continue until the dissolution of parliament.

“It is therefore obvious that the culmination of the matter is not too distant. I therefore crave your indulgence and the patience you have always shown. I have decided to stand down in favor of an elected member who commands the support of the majority of the members of the House. I wish to thank all those persons who have supported me in my long struggle of 21 months under very trying circumstances from elements within my very government and my party. In all that I have done I’ve tried to be honest, sincere, genuine and humane. All my actions towards my fellow man have been based on Christian principles.

Whatever happens now, I never shall depart from them. May Saint Lucia at all times be in the hands of a democratic government, a government of the people, a government by the people and a government for the people.”

The preceding was taken from Lapses & Infelicities

by Rick Wayne

08 LOCAL

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Not a Word from Police on Des Barras Child Molestation Allegations!

Claudia Eleibox

O

nly last week Rick Wayne warned the police about being too forthcoming with the press on matters under investigation, for several reasons to do with justice. But it seems they have taken Mr. Wayne’s advice carte blanche.

By reliable account, last Sunday a man was arrested at Hewanorra International Airport and charged with child molestation. But when information was sought from the police they refused to confirm or deny the story, save to say that generally they don’t comment on matters involving child molestation.

On Wednesday, motivated largely by hearsay, I journeyed to Des Barras, the address of the man allegedly arrested on Sunday. It seemed everyone I talked with had a tale to tell about his relationship with

young boys. Most of them said: “He was very nice and was so kind to everyone in the community. He would buy snacks and things for the children and invite them to his house all the time.” Some said he taught the kids to paint, helped with their homework and various school assignments. He even rewarded them with cell phones and other expensive gifts when they did well with their Common Entrance exams.

Pointing to a nearby bus stop, one man told me: “He did all these things over.” By “these things” he referred to a roadside wall painted with bright, vivid landscapes. He said he remembered the man coming to Des Barras around 2002 and almost right away became involved with the very young children of the community— until a few weeks ago when he disappeared. By reliable account, he had moved to Soufriere. Earlier, according to informed sources, the mother of a 9-year-old boy and a hospital

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (SAINT LUCIA) CLAIM NO: SLUHMT2018/0122 BETWEEN: JULIE CECILE GARNIER of La Croix Maingot,

Castries, but who presently resides in Maryland, USA Petitioner and

KINGSLEY JOSEPH (deceased)

(by his Estate) of Dauphin, Babboneau, but who

resided in Maryland, USA Respondent TO: The Heirs to and/or Representatives of the of the Estate of KINGSLEY JOSEPH (deceased), late of Maryland, USA, but whose last known address in Saint Lucia was Dauphin in the Quarter of Babboneau.

NOTICE TAKE NOTICE that a Petition No. SLUHMT2018/0122 has been filed in the High Court of Justice, Saint Lucia against the Estate of the Respondent by the Petitioner, JULIE CECILE GARNIER. AND SERVICE of the Petition and Affidavit in Support and all other proceedings in this matter will be effected on you through advertisements in two issues of the Official Gazette and in two publications in a newspaper circulating in Saint Lucia.

IF YOU DESIRE to defend this action or to be heard you must within twentyeight (28) days of the last publication file an Affidavit in Answer at the Registry of the High Court of Justice, La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street in the City of Castries in this Island.

IN DEFAULT of filing Affidavit in Answer within the time stipulated, the Court may hear the case in your absence without further notice and Judgment may be granted in favour of the Petitioner.

THE Petition and Affidavit in Support may be viewed and/or copies of same can be obtained from the High Court Office at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Saint Lucia telephone number 468-7500, Fax 468-7543 or email stluhco@eccourts.org. The Court Office is open between 9:00a.m. and 2:00p.m. on Mondays to Thursdays and between 9:00a.m to 3:00p.m on Fridays except public holidays.

Dated the 19th day of November, 2018

George & Co. Chambers

Per:………………………………..

Ms. Sherene S. Francis

Legal Practitioner for the Petitioner The Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries, Saint Lucia telephone number 468-7500, Fax 468-7543, E-mail: stluhco@eccourts.org. The office is open between 9:00a.m. and 2:00p.m. on Monday to Thursday and between 9:00am to 3:00pm on Fridays except public holidays.

This Notice is filed by George & Co. Chambers, Solicitors for the Petitioner, Suite 101 Cox & Company Building, Corner of Cadet and Jeremie Streets, P.O. Box 1388, Castries. Telephone Number: 1758-458-1754, Fax Number: 1758-541-7701 or Email: chambers@agcolaw.com.

Paintings used to uplift the Des Barras community now serve as a reminder that things are not always as they seem.

representative had alerted the police, based on what they had learned from the child about his relationship with the painter.

For whatever reasons the man was never arrested, until Sunday, as he prepared to board a flight to Canada, ostensibly on an assignment for the tourism authority. Sources there have denied that story. Nevertheless, the man’s ticket indicated that from Canada he planned to go via the UK to Sweden, where he had friends. There was no indication he intended to return any time soon to Saint Lucia.

A Des Barras resident said:

“This is so hard to believe, that someone who came here with such a good spirit would do something like that.” As to whether she actually believed all she’d heard about the case, she said: “I don’t know, I’m waiting for what the news has to say about it, but I don’t think a child so young would lie about such a thing. He said he was in pain and all of that.”

Especially worrying to community members I spoke with were the revelations that indicate there may be several other victims whose parents are too embarrassed or scared to

come forward, having permitted their young boys to visit the suspect’s home at all hours unsupervised. Many believed the kids were receiving free tuition.

Some said they had suspicions that the man had devious motives for practically adopting so many young boys from very poor families. One woman blamed the parents: “I say that some of them too soutiwèz [complicit]. He was living alone, he had no woman in the house and you still sending your children to his house and taking things from

him? And it’s not the first time that I heard that kind of story.

People used to say he was doing things, and he was on a side, and what not. You know you don’t always take what people say as truth. But now look what’s being said.”

Another woman recalled feeling uneasy whenever the man encountered her with her young daughter: “He would see her and say, ‘What a pretty, pretty girl, so nice and cute,’ and he would reach out to touch her.

But I would go home and tell my daughter he can think she’s pretty but don’t take anything from him and don’t go near him without telling me.”

Just before press time we took a call from a representative of the tourism authority. He said the man arrested on Sunday was on his way to paint a mural at a Saint Lucia-owned restaurant in Canada. He had a complimentary airline ticket from WestJet. He should’ve travelled in October but postponed his trip to November, which would give him enough time to get a visa. When he did not show up on schedule the restaurateur learned he had been arrested by the local police at Hewanorra.

Meanwhile no related word from the education minister or the cops!

Corporate Professionals Experience Team-building

R

ainforest Adventures (RFA) is Saint Lucia’s leading eco-tour location, welcoming 40,000 visitors every year from cruise ships, hotels and the local community to experience its unique aerial tram, hiking trails, bird-watching and zip-line courses in the natural beauty of the rainforest at Chassin, Babonneau. Recently, the RFA team welcomed some of the island’s senior management and human resource professionals to an afternoon of activities designed to showcase the park’s eco-tours and new team-building programmes for organisations and corporations.

HR management studies have revealed that outdoor activities allow teams to discover and practise group skills like planning, problemsolving, decision-making and conflict resolution. But this works even better on a fun day out of the office, relaxing

and getting to know each other better.

Marketing and Sales Manager Donna ComptonCharles described the November 17 invitational event as a great success: “Feedback from the professionals was very encouraging. The park at Chassin is located in a serene, rural environment but we’re only a short drive from Castries and Rodney Bay which makes Rainforest Adventures extremely convenient for corporate HR activities. Our eco-tours are suitable for all ages, fitness and confidence levels, so are perfect for team-building, morale-boosting and employee wellness activities. RFA can customise all sorts of corporate HR outdoor events, including refreshments, photos and certificates.”

Organisations attending the invitational event were Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, The Landings Resort

HR professionals enjoyed their eco-adventure.

and Spa, Renwick & Company, University of the West Indies (UWI), J E Bergasse, and Community, Family and Youth Resilience Programme (CFYR). Feedback from the professionals was very positive and the RFA team plans to develop several team-building programmes. General Manager, Daryl Raymond encouraged Saint Lucia’s HR practitioners to contact RFA about incorporating outdoor activities into their annual plans, saying “Health, wellness and team-building

exercises are a new and important focus for human resource departments and we invite them to experience our tours and other product offerings at Chassin, Babonneau which is a beautiful, tranquil place to spend time. The benefits are proven and RFA is excited about partnering with companies to help improve the health and motivation of their employees.” To book your Rainforest Adventure, call 458 5151 or email reservations.slu@ rainforestadventure.com.

THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

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10 LOCAL

Oh The Games People Play!

I

n a recent address to the Chamber of Commerce, the prime minister was careful not to go beyond a minimum explanation of the reasons the Planning Department had given The Landings Resort permission to disturb the smooth curve of the beach from Gros Islet to Pigeon Point, in order to create a private yacht marina. The private yacht haven meant the public would no longer be able to walk from Gros Islet to Pigeon Point along that stretch of reclaimed beach front. The UWP, which was then in opposition, said nothing. The Labour party hacks, who masquerade as journalists, went speechless.

I was distraught over that bit of bastardization of the beach, but I decided to keep my peace; if those who are paid to stop the abuse and collusion were part of the plot to destroy Pigeon Point, Praslin Beach and elsewhere,

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I reasoned, my protest would be lost.

Fast forward to the now!

Does Planning or any other government entity owe private homeowners or hotels any particular view? I ask this question because a person who was building a home was told by the neighbour that her roof would block their view. The new owner reported the matter to her builder, an engineer. The engineer advised his client to inform her neighbours that Planning did not take ‘the view’ into account when deciding on the suitability and worthiness of an application for home construction. Does that rule apply to hotel construction or had that rule changed and is there a different rule for hotels?

It would be interesting to discover the answer to that question. Indeed, such information should be shared by the relevant government department with the public

that would then be guided accordingly.

Another matter that I wish to bring to the attention of the STAR is the cop-out of the opposition in the House on a motion for government to employ foreign experts to execute a project from the CDB. The SLP are past masters at squandering monies on the employment of foreign experts when they are in government: the large concrete cemetery (basin?),for water-driven garbage in the gardens, the cost overruns on the Soufriere to Laborie main road, the squandering of taxpayer dollars on Rochamel-Frenwell, water access and distribution which is yet to bear fruit, and you, dear reader, can add others.

What I found most infuriating, however, was the opposition’s shameful hypocrisy and weak argument.

The Labour Party of the 1970s would have reminded the government that even

institutions such as the World Bank lend money to poor countries with the right hand, and take it back with the left hand through foreign experts and the purchase of equipment and personnel from specified countries.

The CDB is the region’s World Bank. Its work is clearly is a continuation of colonial manipulation of poor and vulnerable states like Saint Lucia. That approach to lending is bound to perpetuate backwardness and third-worldism (my word). That should have been the opposition’s main argument. But alas! This ‘new’ Labour has lost the legitimacy to criticize the government because their minds are still stuck in the past colonial era, and the white Massa still rules their thinking.

----Peter Josie

Saint Lucia Mission of SDA Convenes 5th Quadrennial Mission Session

T

he Saint Lucia Mission of Seventh Day Adventists (SDA), convened its fifth Quadrennial Mission Session November 21–23, 2018, at the L'Abayee SDA Church under the theme 'United in Spirit – Fulfilling God’s Purpose'.

The opening ceremony commenced at 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday November 21, and the daily business sessions ran from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Mission Session is a time for fellowship, inspiration and thanksgiving when the church meets to examine its operations over the past four years, select new directors, receive reports from administrators and directors

and entertain questions and recommendations from delegates representing the fifty churches on the island.

The new mission executive, that will transact the business of the church for the next four years, was constituted from the officers voted, and floor members were recommended by the delegates at the Mission Session.

The operations of the Saint Lucia Mission of SDA are supervised by the Caribbean Union of Seventhday Adventists, which selects the local administrators during Union Session held every five years.

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THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

LOCAL

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

11

House approves $13 Million loan for PMDU consultants Joshua St. Aimee

P

redictably, Tuesday's House sitting started almost an hour later than the time scheduled: 10 a.m. But just when it seemed parliamentarians were about to get down to the people’s business, an old problem returned to further delay the proceedings: once again the microphone system was on the blink. It took several minutes before it was restored.

It’s anyone’s guess what went on in the minds of the attendant SALCC students.

The first item on the day’s agenda was a motion by the prime minister seeking parliament's approval to borrow EC$13 million from the Caribbean Development Bank to hire consultants, who will conduct Implementation workshops, and to set up a Performance Management and Delivery Unit.

Consultants from Malaysian company PEMANDU will run the project. It seeks to develop a medium-term development strategy for 201922 and will focus on six areas: healthcare, crime, education, infrastructure, tourism and agriculture. Each sector will have training programmes/ labs which will run for nine weeks and bring together sectors of the society such as the civil service and Chamber of Commerce, with the ultimate goal of setting projects in priority and establishing ways to better implement them.

Recommendations will then be presented to the respective ministers following the conclusion of the training programmes, which began on Tuesday.

Following the introduction of the motion, opposition leader Philip J Pierre was first to take the floor. He expressed "full confidence" in the CDB but was "perturbed" at the amount the government was spending on consultancies.

"What concerns me," said Pierre, "is that I know we have a very competent civil service. The Saint Lucia Civil Service is possibly one of the most qualified in the region. I am concerned as to why we always have to seek

At Tuesday’s House session, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet called out his immediate predecessor for his seasonal support of the public service!

foreign interference or foreign consultancies so as to fulfill our mandate or our objectives for the people of Saint Lucia."

His solution: approach the system in a non-partisan manner where persons are not targeted on the basis that they are not known supporters of the day’s government.

Once again he accused the government of "desire and zeal" in attacking local professionals, including public servants, engineers and doctors, who all have the same skills as the foreign consultants.

"The prime minister's objectives may be laudable,” said the East Castries MP, “but the point is, we could've avoided that expenditure if we had more confidence in our local professionals. If we were not as hasty as we are to attack the dissenting view, I think we would've saved that money."

Former Prime Minister Kenny Anthony also praised the civil service and cautioned that they not be sidelined. He added: "I say unashamedly that I do not support the current management of the Caribbean Development Bank. Why? Because I don't believe the current management of the CDB are living up to what the founding fathers of the bank, and in particular our own Sir Arthur Lewis, pronounced for that bank."

He said the CDB has "lost

sight" that the purpose of its existence is to facilitate the economic development of small islands. "There is nothing that the CDB loves more than consultancy, nothing! Every single project must have consultants, every one. The CDB in particular has a fascination for Canadian consultants. It's not often you get them appointing regional consultants, except when it suits their purposes."

He indicated that over the years he had the opportunity to interact with major donor agencies and some of them constantly blamed the lack of implementation on local authorities. He said no country in the Eastern Caribbean had invested as heavily as Saint Lucia in training its civil servants to implement and design projects. The issue, he says, lies not with our highly trained civil servants or technocrats.

"The problem is with the institutions who have responsibility to make those loans or resources available to you,” the Vieux Fort South MP said. “Unless we understand that and force those institutions to change their ways, we are going to be stuck in mud all over again." He called on the CDB to undertake an audit of its procedures so that funds can be easily available.

As for the motion being

debated, Anthony said it did not have his support.

In his rebuttal, the prime minister underscored the inconsistency in what the opposition leader and the former prime minister had stated; reading from a copy of the 2009 Ramsahoye Commission of Inquiry into government guarantees of loans to Rochamel-Frenwell, the prime minister cited millions of dollars lost to the people of Saint Lucia, for which the Anthony administration was held culpable: “We consider that the loss which the government and people of Saint Lucia suffered in this matter was the result of maladministration and we would recommend that where government enters into contracts for the procurement of goods and services, the law regulating such agreements should be strictly followed.

There were irregularities in public administration resulting in the loss to the government and people of Saint Lucia.

Public servants who should have been involved in the transaction at the level of heads of departments were not and we consider that if they were concerned there would have been measures undertaken to ensure the government did not undertake any liability beyond what was signed in the agreement of

17 December 1997 in respect of a capped liability and might have ensured the benefit of equity in the hotel investment for the people of Saint Lucia in the event the government was made to pay.”

The prime minister also referred to the 2000 Grynberg contract, and the noninvolvement of public servants.

He went on: "I hear this concern with regards to consultancies and bringing people from the outside. But there’s a term we use: best practices. We are a small country; we cannot believe that by ourselves we're going to solve all these problems." He said the problem of implementation is not limited to Saint Lucia, but throughout the Caribbean and that this programme is about "empowering our civil servants to resolve the problems."

Flow Christmas Heads to Vieux Fort

F

low has amped up its seasonal promotional campaign with a massive Christmas family fun fair at the Vieux Fort Town Square today, Saturday, November 24, as well as support for St Cecilia's Day activities in the capital city, Castries.

On Thursday, November 22, 2018 musicians of all ages across Saint Lucia celebrated the feast of the patron saint of musicians with free outdoor performances. Not least of these was the crew from Steve’s Barbershop, who held their annual festivities on Maryann Street near Central Bakery.

During the course of the day-long jam, Flow facilitated the installation of 4G LTE SIM cards, bonus TopUp, and signups with free upgrades. The company also showcased its featured discount handsets, including the Alcatel U5 and A1 from just $199.00 for prepaid customers.

Flow's Vieux Fort Christmas train starts today at 10:00 a.m. in the Town Square.

The all-day extravaganza is set to include discounted phones, bonus TopUp, triple data on all 4G LTE mobile data

plans, merchandise and service giveaways, such as free combo plans, free TV and internet for random customers, plus bouncing castles, ice cream, cotton candy and popcorn for the young ones, as well as music by Hollywood HP.

Flow will be taking the opportunity, whilst in Vieux Fort, to perform random acts of kindness, in concert with companies such as Sol and KFC. Members of the Southern Taxi Association, winners of a recent dominoes tournament, will also be presented with MiFi mobile hotspot devices, inclusive of three months of data.

Vieux Fort was one of the first communities in which Flow launched the island's first 4G LTE mobile data network in 2017.

Earlier this year, the company deployed Hybrid Fibre-Coax (HFC) Fixed infrastructure in Grace, Morne, Beausejour and environs, availing home access to highspeed internet and high-definition television to residents of those areas.

Flow’s Caring is Sharing Christmas promotion runs until January 7, 2019 with customers of the nation’s first and fastest 4G LTE mobile data network set to win a share of over $50,000 in cash and prizes.

12

november 24, 2018 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

RBC Royal Bank of Canada Abandoned

In accordance with the Banking Act #7 Sec 58(3), we publish hereunder the names of account holders of RBC Royal Ba Caribbean Central Bank if no claim is made within thirty (30) days of this notice. Interested parties may inquire a ACCOUNT TYPE

TRANSIT

ACCOUNT #

NAME

ACCOUNT TYPE

TRANSIT

ACCOUNT #

Chequing Chequing Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings Savings

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505-127-1 600-281-0 702-968-9 706-590-7 707-263-0 709-911-2 711-505-8 712-988-5 713-419-0 713-710-2 714-087-4 714-456-1 716-001-3 719-911-0 728-607-3 770-140-2 770-624-5 770-633-6 770-634-4 770-831-6 770-932-2 770-935-5 770-936-3 770-951-2 771-044-5 771-058-5 771-250-8 771-925-5 772-061-8 772-242-4 773-090-6 773-483-3 773-551-7 773-959-2 774-035-0 774-407-1 774-417-0 774-884-1 774-885-8 775-089-6 775-252-0 775-905-3 776-413-7 779-464-7

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750-911-0 790-287-7 790-303-2 1800011078000305 1800011078133305 1800012078044047 1800012078108986 1800012078113343 1800012078115087 1800012078159707 1800012072400391 1800011072084997 1800011030013022 1800011078217398 1800011072354504 1800011070958477 1800011075049397 1800011030007421 1800011077070458 1800011078020365 1800011072392392 1800010072367898 1800011072399249 1800011020161295 1800011020172424 1800012071572091 1800011078059229 1800011078252920 1800011070787440 1800011071857210 1800011020217490 1800011078222810 1800012075331690 1800011070129580 1800011071267090 1800011030011380 1800011070021730 1800011072083820 1800011078033310 1800011078022670 1800011076056600 1800011070796680 1800011075370790

THE STAR

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www.stluciastar.com

november 24, 2018

ned Property as at 31st October, 2018

oyal Bank of Canada with unclaimed balances for over 15 years. Unclaimed amounts will be transferred to the Eastern nquire at their local RBC Royal Bank of Canada Branch, if their names appear on the abandoned Property Listing.

#

NAME

DRAFT #

BENEFICIARY

ORDERING CUSTOMER

8000305 8133305 8044047 8108986 8113343 8115087 8159707 2400391 2084997 0013022 8217398 2354504 0958477 5049397 0007421 7070458 8020365 2392392 2367898 2399249 0161295 0172424 1572091 8059229 8252920 0787440 1857210 0217490 8222810 5331690 0129580 1267090 0011380 0021730 2083820 8033310 8022670 6056600 0796680 5370790

MR SACHA DIDIER OVE OLSSON OVE OLSSON TESSAR EDMUND ANNALEE ALCEE EMMA LABADIE PIUS POLOGNE STANNILLIA JOSEPH SHANIN ISIDORE SKITTA STEVEN DENNIS AUGUSTE GEORGE ESELINE GRG ENERGY GROUP LIMITED DELIA WALTER JEAN FRANCOIS MONTOUTE JOHN S. ATKINS SAHADEO MAHABIR T.A CC3 (ST LUCIA) BRUNO PAUL MARTELLY FEARN CHASTANET JOSEPH MAYNARD ANALIESE DAYES DAVY NELSON BASELINE CONSTRUCTION CO. LTD. CARIBBEAN HOTEL AND TRAVEL LYNEL JOACHIM LINA ISIDORE TREVOR S. CHARLES PRIMUS NIGEL AMEDEE PHILIP MORTLEY ASCO (ST. LUCIA) LTD. RUSSULA ALEXANDER BRENDAN HIPPOLYTE MARIANA EDWARD AARON LAMMIE MC NAMARA CORPORATE SERVICES INC CHIRNA ST. MARIE LAWRENCE EDWARDS KENDAL CASIMIR LIZA PAMPHILE MARGUERITE DESIR LEINSTER GEORGE SEAVIRS OLIVER HENRY

00537398 220880 226404 115097 115132 224858 115309 115890 116042 116531 116874 117103 117092 122193 123296 131627 1820 1454 1882 2281 4129 4128 4516 4584 3677 8422

KAREN MAURICETTE ROBERT MORGAN THE ACCOUNTANT GENERAL RAINBOW HOTEL JOAN GEORGE I.F. JEREMIE I.F JEREMIE DEMERARA MUTUAL LIFE ASS HEWANORRA AIR CARGO LA CUISINE RESTAURANT & BAR OFFICE CENTRE J.F. JEREMIE WILL AGENCIES LTD VERONICA S.P. CENAC WASCO VOICE OF LIFE RADIO COMPLETE FREIGHT DVCS LTD UNITED INSURANCE CO. LTD TECHMARINE CASILDA FANUS ACC. GEN. MINISTRY OF FINANCE ACC. GEN. MINISTRY OF FINANCE ST. LUCIA BANKING ASSOCIATION CANDYO INN MARLON ALEXANDER WASCO

SANDALS ST. LUCIA ROCHAMEL CONSTRUCTION CBC POSTAGE STAMPS CBC CBC CBC CBC PATTERSON G. OCHILIEN CBC CBC CBC CBC SLU MISSION OF SDA SLU NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL SHANTA LOUIS FOR J J WORRELL LONA HUNTE HUNTE’S INTERNATIONAL CECILIA GREAVES E&D NETWORK TRADING BWIA ANDREW JAGANATH ANDREW JAGANATH CBC CBC PAUL LEWIS VANESSA ACHE

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NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Report Says No Evidence Laptop Programme Improved Student Performance Keryn Nelson

I

t’s almost impossible to discuss modern-day development without factoring in technology. In more advanced countries, no longer are classes made up of a few desks, chairs, shelves and a blackboard. Modern schools feature stimuli through various forms of digitization, all in an effort to increase efficiency and productivity.

Saint Lucia officially embarked on the quest of technology integration in education a decade or so ago although the journey has proved anything but easy.

A few examples of our local Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-based initiatives include a laptop programme, formal teacher training in technology integration, increased ICT infrastructure, an auto-skill programme, a pilot computer coding and robotics programme and new technology policy development.

Although computer and information technology in schools is not entirely new to Saint Lucia, much more effort has been made over the years in specific areas such as the facilitating of computer laboratories in nearly every secondary school on the island, as well as an ICT room in primary schools. Teaching digital literacy to students at a lower secondary school level is also now a mandatory part of the curriculam. In primary schools teachers are encouraged to use and teach basic computer tools and skills during their Language, Arts, Mathematics and Science classes.

For the local government it isn't simply about using taxpayer dollars and grant monies to remain up to speed with global changes. More detailed objectives for these initiatives include enhancement of the learning environment for students, increased access to computers and information, and raising student achievement through specific interventions.

But how significant have been the strides toward those goals?

In 2013 over 3,300 laptops

Saint Lucia takes on the mammoth task of incorporating technology into schools despite the fact that the country suffers from crippling debt and deteriorating educational facilities.

were provided to students at the Form Four level, as well as to teachers. However, according to the 2017 “Status of ICT in Saint Lucia” report, “there were issues with software limitations, inadequate educational content, perceived non-educational use of the laptops by students” and so on. “No evidence has been presented to the effect that student performance improved as a result of the laptop programme.”

As for the incorporation of technology into school curriculums, Saint Lucia's ICT Curriculum Officer, Germain Anthony says, “For the past three years we’ve hosted teacher technology integration training, which involves highlighting to teachers how tech can support how they teach. But of course there are some constraints, such as the infrastructure. Some labs are not adequately equipped."

Also: "To speak on successes and challenges is difficult. There are so many variables. I always say what most affects student performance is the quality of teaching. So at the forefront should be the teacher's capacity to teach those concepts. That's where the teacher training in technology comes in. You can tell the teachers are always very happy to take those courses.

Some of them were already doing those things. They face challenges, however: poor or no internet in the classrooms; bandwidth at schools is quite low.”

Anthony says a new

initiative, CARCIP (Caribbean Regional Communication Infrastructure Program), if implemented can deliver higher bandwidth to some schools and possibly provide a solution.

Another concern: “In some schools the approach is very much pro-ICT. The principals and teachers are trying different things, like engaging the private sector and parents in an effort to raise funds so that students can have better access to technology.

Some of the teachers, despite discouragements, still manage to do a lot with technology.

They take their own laptops, projectors and other devices to their schools. On the other hand, the approach in some schools is more traditional; the principals may not think technology is imperative.”

Anthony said that ideally all schools should have higher broadband internet, campus wifi where internet can be accessed in classrooms, interactive white boards, one or two camcorders, an adequate number of projectors and access to learner-management systems like moodles or Google classrooms so that class content can be made available to students 24/7. But these things demand fairly large amounts of cash. “I think that if the ministry had its way we would have had those things in schools years ago but Saint Lucia is a poor country, a small island developing state.”

ICT in Education, though not allocated a set budget, is managed by the Ministry of

Education. Says Anthony: “In an ideal situation we would have a set amount of funding to support technology integration.

Then I will be in a position to consult with some tech teachers to see how much can be stretched, and then we would be able to incrementally make some steady progress. But what we have right now is basically stand-alone initiatives.”

Some past and current ICT projects have been made possible via international grants.

As earlier stated, Anthony strongly believes that to make strides in ICT education, teachers need to be placed at

the forefront of that endeavour.

“We need to look at how teachers are able to use the equipment as well as formulate strong theoretical and practical methods,” he says. "Via the Commonwealth of Learning, one new policy—ICT in Education and Strategy—has been developed. Its intended outcomes include gender equity, supporting STEM education, special needs education, equitable access for all students, lifelong learning and open educational resources.”

The necessary documentation has been completed and currently is waiting to be tabled before Cabinet.

Pierre Says his Government Approved Concessions Related to a Dolphin Park it Never Sanctioned!

Philip J Pierre (centre) addressing reporters outside the parliament building on Tuesday.

T

he opposition St. Lucia Labour Party is fast sealing a reputation for saying one thing in government, and the precise opposite in opposition.

At a press briefing earlier this week, the MP for Castries Southeast, Mr. Guy Joseph, read from a Cabinet conclusion dated 16 November 2015 that indicated the day’s government had approved concessions for the establishment of a dolphin park in Saint Lucia.

The MP hinted at the fact that the former Cabinet ministers were now busy campaigning against dolphin parks. “They don’t care if they sink Saint Lucia,” said Joseph.

“They don’t care how much they

scare away investors and they don’t care how much damage they do to the country.”

He went on: “The leader of the opposition, Philip J Pierre, was acting prime minister when the 2015 decision was taken in favour of a dolphin park operated by Sandals resorts. I would love to hear him explain his positions back then and now regarding dolphin parks.”

On Tuesday, at the entrance to the parliament building, after Pierre had read out the reasons behind his motion of no confidence in the government, a reporter asked him to explain his evident change of heart on the question of dolphins. He said: “I am saying to you that

the position of the St. Lucia Labour Party now is that we will not encourage the construction of dolphin parks in Saint Lucia.

This is the position now.”

Pressed further on the matter, he repeated himself. “I am speaking about the Labour Party’s position now. We are against dolphin parks here.”

He insisted that the party had never approved the construction of any dolphin park. “Approval comes from the Development Control Authority,” he said.

“The language in the 2015 Cabinet conclusion speaks to concessions, that’s all.”

---JSA

THE STAR

M

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

BOOK PREVIEW 15

AND SO WE COME TO MY THIRD BOOK!

y third attempt at publishing a book has been delayed for some time, for reasons that I need not go in to. It will suffice to inform you, dear reader, that my latest effort, entitled Reparations Conference, is presently at the STAR Publishing Company, going through the final stages before publication.

I have therefore decided to do some preliminary advertising, as I plan to launch my novella at the end of November 2018.

The following is a foreword by my former mentor, friend and colleague, Calixte George, a retired research officer at the Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute (CARDI) in Trinidad. He was also a research officer at our own Union Agriculture Station.

Calixte writes: “The subject of reparations is a very complex topic, no matter the context—slavery, the holocaust, or the annihilation of indigenous peoples. The subject has been with mankind for several centuries with no final conclusion for protagonists or antagonists, victims and perpetrators. Peter Josie’s novella should therefore not be construed as his final position on the question of Reparations for Slavery. It is my belief that Peter is attempting to outline a probable methodology for discussion of the approach that should be taken in unraveling the reparations issue, now being given new prominence in the Caribbean since the advocacy of Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice Chancellor of the University of the West Indies, and others.

“In a way Peter has been dispassionate in the analysis of reparations with the interactive approach of his main characters. He provides a partially holistic panoramic view from a range of stakeholders: among others teachers, trade unionists, Rastafarians. However, there seems to be a missing link—the perspective of the members of the Chamber of Commerce, who many may consider to be the most likely local beneficiaries from slavery. Their perspective could very well be that local beneficiaries have already

comparative analysis of Model Solutions to Reparations should be undertaken. An arrangement like the IsraeliGermanic Agreement of 1953 to 1963 may be instructive. Tom Segeo, the Israeli Historian, in his book ‘Seventh Million,’ outlines the benefit of German Reparations to Israel. It has been reported that the GNP of Israel tripled during the ten years of the agreement. Also, reparations had the indisputable psychological and political benefit to the Israeli people.

Assessing the Reparations Agreement, Israel’s Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion said: ‘For the first time in history of relations between people, a precedent has been created by which a great State, as a result of moral pressure alone, takes

upon itself to pay compensation to the victims of the government that preceded it. For the first time in the history of a people that has been persecuted, oppressed, plundered and despoiled for hundreds of years in the countries of Europe, a persecutor and despoiler has been obliged to return part of his spoil and has undertaken to make collective reparation as partial compensation for material losses.’

“For a further discourse on the issue of reparations, perhaps Peter should consult our friend and fellow Samarian (past student of St. Mary’s College, Saint Lucia), Bernard ‘Binky’ Boxill, Professor of Philosophy at the University of North Carolina, who has researched and written on

‘Morality of Reparations,’ among his many published works.

Boxill’s research may indicate another way forward on the matter of reparations.”

The book Reparations Conference is a creation of the imagination and I have clearly stated that fact in its writing. I have dedicated it to the people of African descent who were taken against their will from their African homeland, into the so-called new world. Many of their progeny are still searching for a home in this new place.

The book is also dedicated to those who fight against racism, bigotry and injustice. More information will be given on the electronic media and in this newspaper about the exact date, time and place of the book’s launching.

Theinvites National Workers Union (NWU) applications from suitably qualified persons to fill the positions of: Mr. Peter Josie has been a regular contributor to this newspaper for the last two years. He has also published Shattered Dreams and The Shopping List.

paid and are continuing to pay their reparations debt through providing employment, education scholarships to the children of their employees and sponsorship of various community and national activities such as Arts festivals, etcetera.

“Another perspective that could have made the discussion even more interesting would be that of his political twin brother, George Odlum. Peter Josie was a colleague of George Odlum, with whom he co-operated in the most effective political education of the masses of ordinary Saint Lucians. Brother George, as he was popularly known, had suffered the normal discrimination in housing as a student in London in the mid1950s. He was rescued from the lack of both proper housing and food by one of his white lecturers (one Mrs. Palmer) at Bristol University, where he read English. It was also Sir Phillip Morris, a white Chancellor of the University of Bristol, who

arranged for Odlum, as he put it, “to do a dose of the greats”—Politics, Philosophy and Economics—at Oxford University.

“In the circumstance, Brother George might have had an ambivalent position on reparations. Such ambivalence may also be shared by the group of young Saint Lucians who had migrated to the so-called ‘Mother Country’ to further themselves through the work-and-study model.

Perhaps George’s debating skills, coupled with his continuous search for new ideas, has influenced Peter to open the doorway for ordinary folks to view reparations from a well thought out, calculated and balanced aspect of its various components. Peter brings out the complex components of the reparations equation with objectivity, and the hope that an amicable solution will be found to the satisfaction of all concerned.

“In that regard a

Junior Industrial Relations Officer Main Duties will include: • Organising members and worksite actions • Representing members in hearings and proceedings • Participating in collective bargaining negotiations • Developing and carrying out activities for union campaigns • Data entry • Participating in worker/shop steward training • Communicating with company supervisors and managers The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications: • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Relations/Labour Relations with a minimum of

two(2) years working experience • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management with a minimum of two

(2) years working experience • GCE A’Levels including History and Economics with at least three (3) years working experience Skills and other attributes needed: • Clear and concise communication skills • Excellent problem solving capabilities • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Ability to build collaborative relationships within diverse groups • Experience with database management is a plus Salary and benefits: • We offer a comprehensive remuneration and benefits package which includes training

and development A resume along with three (3) references and certified copies of certificates should be submitted no later than December 31, 2018.

By email: natwork3@hotmail.com By post: The Secretary General

National Workers Union Bourbon House Bourbon Street

P.O. Box 713 CASTRIES Only suitable applicants will be considered

16 LOCAL

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

Fond Doux Does it Again!

F

ond Doux Plantation & Resort was announced a winner of the 2018 World Luxury Hotel Award for the “North America Luxury Hideaway Resort”. It was at a prestigious black-tie ceremony celebrating the 12th anniversary of the World Luxury Hotel Awards held in Indonesia on Saturday, 10 November 2018 at AYANA Resort and Spa, Bali.

The award serves as recognition of sustained commitment to excellence in hoteliering and outstanding achievement in the international luxury hospitality industry.

Over 300,000 international travellers vote each year during a four-week period to select the winners. The resort’s directors, Eroline and Lyton Lamontagne, are extremely honoured to have captured the award again this year.

Established in 2006, World Luxury Hotel Awards is the pinnacle of achievement in the luxury hotel industry, offering international recognition for resorts voted for by guests, travellers and industry players alike. Over 360 guests flew in

was to ban the use of plastic plates, cups, straws and cutlery and replace them with biodegradable products.”

Michael Hunter-Smith, Group Marketing Director for the World Luxury Hotel Awards had the following to say about the winners, including Fond Doux: “We congratulate all our winners for the 2018 Award Year who, through their tireless efforts and endless passion to elevate their guests' experience, have received this honour tonight. True luxury is not easily attained; it takes a team of highly efficient and dedicated staff willing to go the extra mile Fond Doux Plantation & Resort has garnered much recognition for its prestige, including a 2018 World and stop at nothing to ensure Luxury Hotel Award. that every guest feels cared for and no challenge is not solved.

This is the definition of luxury; from around the world to attend part of the new distinct niche the event, which awarded the market for places off the beaten this is what makes the winners shine at the World Luxury Hotel world’s finest hotels for their track and hidden gems across Awards event.” luxury offerings and exceptional the globe."

The entire Fond Doux team service delivery.

Lyton Lamontagne added, thanks everyone who voted for

“Our mission is enshrined “As a leading authentic, them.

This is a testament to the in environmental consciousness sustainable, eco-friendly, hard work and dedication that and the protection of our boutique resort we aim to the resort's members of staff heritage combined with a team contribute to the solution of and volunteers give to uphold a dedicated to offering total reducing single-use plastics high quality of service for all of guest satisfaction,” said Eroline in Saint Lucia, and one of its guests.

Lamontagne. “Fond Doux is our latest green initiatives

black|Up beauty Master Class is Back!

A black|Up event held earlier this year.

L

adies, if you missed the black|Up event in April, you really did miss out. And for those of you who were there the first time around, well you most certainly will remember all the fun you had learning some amazing techniques while enjoying some tasty treats.

Duty Free Caribbean and black|Up are excited to announce that black|Up International Make-up Artist Melissa Marie-Rose will be joining the team once again for their event today, Saturday November 24.

One-on-one, 30-minute makeover sessions will be hosted and a black|Up Master

Class from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Duty Free Caribbean, La Place Carenage.

Come ready to learn tips and tricks of make-up application and get your face beat by international make-up artists.

There are limited spots for the Master Class Session which requires an advance payment of US$100 redeemable on products from the brand.

Makeover one-on-one sessions cost US$60, also redeemable. Make it a date, with chances to win a basket filled with goodies.

A certificate of participation will be presented for the Master Class.

THE STAR

17

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WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

PM says Predecessor threw EU Under the Bus rather than take Blame!

T

Former Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony on Tuesday criticised the EU for the length of time OKEU took to complete.

EU Releases EC$24M to Dominica for Post-Hurricane Maria Reconstruction

T

he European Union is releasing to Dominica EC$24 million (7.7M euros), the first tranche of a total of EC$34 million (11M euros), as part of its contribution to the reconstruction of the country following the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria last year.

With this grant the EU will support the construction of two emergency shelters in the Castle Bruce and Jimmit areas and the rehabilitation of 1,000 houses in various affected communities. The reconstruction will be carried out exclusively according to the Building Back Better approach and to the highest resilience standards.

In addition, the grant will also support the government in its revision of sector policies to include climate change adaptation practices and to reduce disaster risks while facing extreme weather events, in line with Dominica’s new National Resilient Development Strategy.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said: “This contribution from the European Union will assist us with the ongoing rehabilitation of communities throughout Dominica as we seek to reconstruct in a climate resilient way. It will also ensure that the more vulnerable of the population are catered to as the

process of rebuilding their lives is painstakingly undertaken from day to day.”

This is the second postdisaster reconstruction grant Dominica will receive from the EU in three years, in addition to ECHO Humanitarian aid, following the EC$28 million (8.9M euros) provided for the rehabilitation of the water and energy infrastructure after Tropical Storm Erika in 2015.

This funding comes in addition to the bilateral cooperation between the European Union and the Commonwealth of Dominica, which supports two key sectors of the Dominica economy, namely agriculture and renewable energy. Under renewable energy the country has been allocated EC$8.3 million, while the agriculture sector has been benefiting from the EC$48 million (15.27M euro) Banana Accompanying Measures programme.

“Dominica has been under hard trial during the last few years, but it is encouraging to see the mobilisation and the commitment of all Dominicans to rebuild the country as a truly resilient nation. As a European citizen I am proud that we stand together with the Dominican people and other members of the international community in this important endeavour”, said Ambassador Daniela Tramacere.

he EC$160 million European Union-funded Owen King Hospital sits largely ignored near the Millennium Highway in Castries.

The hospital was to have replaced the ancient Victoria Hospital as the nation’s primary health facility. Construction on the new hospital began nine years ago, and since its completion in 2016 and subsequent $100,000 naming ceremony months before the 2016 elections, the longawaited transition has yet to be made.

During Tuesday’s House sitting, former opposition leader Kenny Anthony rose to

Government’s Medium Term Development Strategy Focuses on Six Key Areas

S

enior public officers from across all ministries, private sector personnel and representatives from civil society organisations converged at the Royalton Hotel for a two-week strategizing session dubbed St. Lucia Social and Economic Labs.

Phillip Dalsou, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Economic Development, Transport and Civil Aviation said this exercise represents a continuation of a process started in April of this year when the Cabinet of Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, senior public officers and the private sector agreed on six priority areas that the country should focus on over the next four years: tourism, agriculture, Infrastructure, healthcare, education and crime.

Dalsou said, “We expect that through a collaborative and cooperative approach we can develop solutions, and the emphasis is on solutions because far too often we place far more emphasis on blame and what we want to do is to solve some of the critical problems in those priority sectors.” He stressed that the output of this exercise will not be another report but to develop detailed implementation plans for each priority sector, adding: “It is expected that these plans will be incorporated into the budget process for 2019-2020.”

Contracted to lead this process is PEMANDU

Associates, a global management consulting company focused on government transformation, business turnaround and strategic communication. Chris Chew, its Engagement Manager for the Economic and Social Labs said the ultimate goal is to identify game changers in the six priority areas: “And so over the next two weeks what will be happening here is we will be detailing out what these game changers are meant to be like.

What are the problems facing them? How can we unblock those problems and ultimately what are the recommendations we need to make for our senior leadership to move forward?

So the most important thing for every participant who comes here is we need to be ready to participate. Nobody is a silent listener. Nobody sits at the back watching or listening without contributing. Everybody is a contributor to this exercise.”

He emphasized what the public could expect from the development of the medium term development strategy: “The goal of this strategy is basically to deliver GDP growth of 4 to 5 per cent, job creation and private investment, and within these three areas what people should be able to expect is a vibrant and robust economy, a government that can deliver on what it promises and on the projects that it commits to, and ultimately an improved social outcome.”

debate a motion that sought parliamentary approval to borrow EC$13 million for consultants. In stating his disapproval of the motion, the Vieux Fort South MP singled out the EU and its track record for implementation in the Caribbean region.

“Every year you come to the House with a Budget,” he said. “You announce what the allocations are for, and then in the course of the year you look for the results. But they are never there. Whenever you tackle the EU, they always tell you that it has to do with the lack of capacity in the various governments.”

The former PM said that he had always challenged the EU to do “an independent audit of the procedures that you are utilizing to assess and monitor projects”. Citing the OKEU and the time it took to be constructed, he went on: “One of the fundamental reasons why it has taken so long has to do with the

EU, with its procurement practices, with the fact that the organisation was not able to respond quickly and adeptly to the various proposals and recommendations coming from public sector functionaries in the country.”

He continued: “It has nothing to do, as people assume, with the Ministry of Health or public officers. It had everything to do with the approach of the EU because, among other things, in the vast majority of cases they insisted that when bids had to be created to go out, interested parties in the member states had to be given the opportunity to bid.”

In response, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet said that rather than accepting responsibility for lack of implementation, the former prime minister chose to blame others, “by throwing the EU under the bus”.

---JSA

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN SUPREME COURT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE SAINT LUCIA CLAIM NO. SLUHCV2008/1228 BETWEEN: FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK (BARBADOS) LIMITED Claimant and PHILINA HIPPOLYTE Defendant TO: PHILINA HIPPOLYTE whose last known address was La Croix Road, Laborie, Saint Lucia

NOTICE TAKE NOTICE that the Judgment Creditor FIRSTCARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BANK (BARBADOS) LIMITED has filed an Application in the High Court of Justice, Saint Lucia, to for an Inspection of Property to Undertake Valuation of the immovable property owned by you and situate at La Mar in the Registration Quarter of Laborie and registered as Block and Parcel Number 0819C 262.

The Application will come on for hearing at the High Court of Justice, La Place Carenage, Jeremie Street, Castries on Wednesday the 13th day of February, 2019 at 9:00 am.

AND THAT pursuant to CPR 2000 Part 5.13 service of the said Application is effected on you by advertisements of this NOTICE in two (2) consecutive issues of a local Newspaper circulating in Saint Lucia and two (2) consecutive issues of the official Gazette of Saint Lucia. The said Application and Affidavit in Support of the Application can be viewed and copies thereof can be obtained at the Court Office of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, High Court of Justice, Jeremie Street, Castries.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you fail to attend the hearing the Application will be heard and an Order made in your absence.

Dated this 8th day of November, 2018 PETER I. FOSTER & ASSOCIATES per.....................................................

Peter A.H. Marshall Legal Practitioners for the Claimant Presented for filing by: Peter I. Foster & Associates, Legal Practitioners for the Claimant, whose address for service is: Chambers, Robin Kelton Building, Choc Bay, Castries, St. Lucia. West Indies.

Tel. No.: 758 453-1100, Fax No.: 758 452-4940, E-mail: contact@piflaw.com.

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

18 LOCAL

Art Thrives Us—A Journey of Art Through Arthritis

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ast Thursday the MeCurator Art Gallery at Massade, Gros Islet, opened the first ever Art Thrives Us exhibition — “A journey of art through Arthritis”. The event was made possible via the joint efforts of the Saint Lucia Arthritis and Lupus Association (SLALA) and art curator Buki Cahane. The goal was to feature the work of patients, health practitioners, friends and family members who have suffered ailments such as arthritis and lupus.

Many of the pieces on display were painted during the “Soul Art” workshops, an initiative developed to encourage healing through art.

The bi-monthly Soul Art workshops are the brainchild of Dr Nicole Edgecombe, who told the STAR: “I started painting around 2012 and I consider myself an intuitive painter. I am a psychologist but I also have lupus and I find that painting helps me to be calmer, more focused and able to manage pain. One time I thought to

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

Art Thrives Us becomes another successful exhibition opening at the MeCurator Art Gallery.

myself, ‘This can’t just be me; other people, I’m sure, will have a similar experience.’ So in January of this year I met with SLALA and we got a group of people who have never painted before to begin painting intuitively.” Edgecombe says the initiative has been going strong and will continue until “there’s no more paint on the island”.

Nine of the Soul Art painters put their art on display as part of the Art Thrives Us exhibition, along with Peter Walcott who suffers with arthritis. Fortunila Hippolyte, the youngest artist at age 20, said she had joined the workshop after being encouraged by her doctor. “The classes with Nicole was a good

opportunity. My inspiration is usually things that I like, things that I don’t like, sometimes even things that annoy me and I enjoy it,” she said. Though Fortunila had begun painting on her own, her work has blossomed into something awe-inspiring, say members of the Soul Art group. Her use of everyday materials and items, some of which she picks up during strolls, adds a unique touch.

Darrel John, one of the few male painters included in the Art Thrives Us exhibition, talked about one of his standout pieces. “Well, in the ninth month, which we know is September, this is the month that arthritis, sickle cell anaemia and other such illnesses are given awareness. Since my cousin has sickle cell anaemia, and I have been observing all the painful situations she has gone through, she inspired me. The Ninth Month was done as a tribute to her.” John currently works as a part-time nurse and says patients and others enduring physical, emotional and mental ailments “can use art cognitively to distract them from painful episodes”.

The Art Thrives Us exhibition ends on Thursday December 13. It features not only paintings, but also sculptures, books and handcrafted jewellery by artists who have sought to create despite what, to others, may seem like setbacks. The gallery’s opening hours are from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday and by private appointment. All pieces on display are for sale.

Argentina shares its Expertise with Caribbean Specialists

Argentinian authorities host a welcoming ceremony for visitors at the Palacio San Martín.

A

rgentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the support of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation Agriculture (IICA), held a workshop in Buenos Aires to enable Caribbean officials and technical specialists in water management and agricultural health to benefit from the scientific and technological expertise of Argentinian organisations that are operating in this area.

The aim of the fourday ‘Regional Workshop on Agriculture in the Englishspeaking Caribbean’ was to inform specialists from Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines about scientific and technological development activities at the National Agricultural Technology Institute (INTA) and the policies and actions of the Agroindustrial Secretariat and the National Service for Agri-food Health and Quality (SENASA).

During the sessions, it was agreed that a cooperation project should be developed on water and soils and agricultural health and safety, all of which were identified as priorities during the first phase of the workshop, which was held in Barbados in April.

The workshop is part of the Argentine Fund for International Cooperation (FO.AR) program of Argentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under the framework of South-South cooperation, with a view to promoting knowledge, technology and best practices in water harvesting, reservoir --- Keryn Nelson management, pumping

and management of water resources, pests and exotic diseases and phytosanitary certification protocols.

IICA provided cooperation in the development of the projects and, given its presence in all the countries of the Caribbean, agreed to collaborate and provide assistance in both the final formulation and implementation stages.

Karen Montiel, the Coordinator of IICA’s Climate Change, Natural Resources and Risk Program; Lisa Harrynanan, the Agricultural Health Specialist at IICA’s Trinidad and Tobago Office; and Edith Obschatko, Policy Specialist at IICA Argentina, attended the Buenos Aires workshop.

Also in attendance were representatives from the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), which is an organisation of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) that specializes in agricultural issues, and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID).

The visitors expressed their great appreciation to the Argentinian organisations for sharing their experiences and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and IICA for the support provided in developing this activity.

They also remarked that the workshop, which was organised in the spirit of South-South Cooperation, was extremely timely in providing information and helping to enhance knowledge about phytosanitary systems, water harvesting and soil management.

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

LOCAL

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19

PM Calls Abattoir Relocation a Blessing!

O

ne requirement for the Pearl of the Caribbean project earmarked for the community of Vieux Fort is the implementation of an Equine Disease-Free Zone. The World Organization for Animal Health describes the EDFZ as “the temporary establishment of a zone free from specified multiple diseases. The establishment of an EDFZ can be considered by countries that wish to host an international equestrian sport event but that cannot control and eradicate all equine diseases in their entire territory.”

The EDFZ comprises a core zone where the event takes place, and a surveillance zone in which the health status of all

T

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet during the recently held Chamber of Commerce event.

animals is “known, monitored and understood.” It also consists of a protection zone to

preserve the health status of equines from other animals.

The Taiwanese-gifted abattoir

French Students Receive Free Training From ‘LightSparc’

en boys from the Lycée Professionel de Chateauboeuf, a vocational school in Martinique, recently benefitted from a one-day training course in information communication and technology (ICT), courtesy of LightSparc Training.

During the workshop, held on Monday, November 12, 2018 at LightSparc Training’s premises in High Street, Castries, the students learned more about computers: how to set up motherboards, hardware, and other related functions.

Accompanying the students was Charles Marie-Reine, who teaches English at the school in Fort-de-France. He said the boys are all studying digital systems back in Martinique as part of their media studies and ICT syllabus. Aged 16 and 17 years, they are now in their second year of secondary school.

Each week, since last year, the boys have been receiving two extra hours of English lessons in digital systems at their school, meaning their teachers present their digital systems classes in English.

This is the second consecutive year that LightSparc Training has offered the free courses to students from the French school.

However, Marie-Reine says he hopes that future collaborations last longer. Nevertheless, he said the students thoroughly enjoyed what they learned during the course.

“We’re really thankful to Bernard and Lightsparc

falls into the area for the free zone and earlier this month Agriculture Minister Ezechiel Joseph indicated that a new location had been identified to construct a new facility— financed by DSH.

At a meeting sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce in the presence of Desert Star Holding’s Teo Ah Khing, the prime minister reiterated that there is an agreement with DSH developers to finance the project but that the abattoir will not form part of the slated-fordemolition list that includes the parliament building, the courthouse, and government printery.

“I want to dismiss this idea that we’re breaking down the abattoir,” said the prime minister. “There’s absolutely never been a discussion to break down the abattoir; maybe converting its use to something else and that is strictly because of the horses and creating this quarantine area.”

He indicated that the DSH developers will reimburse the money and that not one, but two abattoirs, will be built in different locations. He

announced that one is to be placed in Marc, Bexon and that the Ministry of Agriculture is currently identifying the other location.

He said his government had been “upfront” with the Taiwanese government; that they understand the direction the Saint Lucian government is going. He described the imminent relocation as a “blessing in disguise” because the current facility would be “very costly” to run.

The abattoir will not be the only facility to be relocated. The prime minister stated that the Beausejour farm, located in the zone, will also soon be in a new resting place.

Members of the opposition Saint Lucia Labour Party have expressed their disappointment that the abattoir will be relocated and have criticized the government for giving investor Teo Ah Khing “freedom to do whatever he pleases”.

Said former Agriculture minister Moses Jn. Baptiste: “It is very unfortunate for the farmers of Saint Lucia. And we know that all of this is happening simply because of the wishes of Teo Ah

Khing. That’s why we continue to say that the prime minister and his cabinet have become puppets of Teo Ah Khing.”

Former foreign minister Alva Baptiste said that while the Taiwanese may not publicly criticize the government’s decision, it will cause them to rethink how they assist the island in the future.

He said: “While you may sit with the Taiwanese and they may say, ‘We understand the new vision, we understand the new thrust,’ certainly it’s going to create some injury to our diplomatic relations. They may not say, ‘No, I will not assist you,’ but they are going to learn from history and may say, ‘You are not treating our gift with respect, so we are going to another jurisdiction where persons need those resources for legitimate development.’”

Of course the opposition MP, without evidentiary support for his statement, left himself wide open to accusations that his words amounted to convenient speculations and wishful thinking.

---Joshua St. Aimee

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Students from Martinique visited LightSparc Training’s ICT centre in Castries for hands-on tuition.

Training for giving us this great opportunity,” MarieReine said. “Next time, we would like to at least pay a small fee for the training. But we are very appreciative to LightSparc Training for what they have done through this collaboration.”

He added: “We are also working to develop the relationship between Saint Lucia and Martinique in terms of, maybe, a collaboration between the Ministry of Education in Saint Lucia and [its counterpart] in Martinique.”

Meanwhile, LightSparc’s Managing Director, Bernard Bovell, who was the workshop facilitator, said the students got the chance to break down and set up computers and learn more about the machines’ components and how they work together.

Last year’s group, he said, numbered fifteen youths, adding that he is already looking forward to welcoming other groups to the free training course.

“It’s always good to work with these organisations that do so much,” Bovell said. “These boys are coming from overseas, and we are part of what they see Saint Lucia as, especially in the field of ICT. We want to be part of that, to influence them to go in the right direction.

Hopefully, this motivates them to continue pursuing their goals.”

While some of the students were already familiar with the information they received from LightSparc Training, others were not. But they were all able to complete the exercise, following which they each received a certificate from LightSparc Training.

LightSparc Training, which was established in Saint Lucia in 2011, offers courses in Project Management, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Marketing, Human Resource, and Accounting, Microsoft, Quick Books, among others, and focuses primarily on globallyrecognized certification.

Do You Have What It Takes?

Can you develop campaigns and promotions to increase the visibility of Sagicor’s products and services?

Do you have solid working experience as a marketing professional?

Can you develop and maintain excellent relationships with our corporate partners?

WHAT'S EXPECTED: •

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•

Confidence in interacting with internal and external publics, excellent command of English (spoken and written) and the ability to work collaboratively on teams.

•

Detail oriented, self-motivated and capable of working in a fast paced environment.

•

Must be able to create and deliver high impact marketing presentations.

Go to the careers link on www.sagicorlife.com to view further details and submit your application by November 30, 2018.

Sagicor Life Inc is rated “A-” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Rating Company.

20 HEALTH

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

KIM’S KORNER

Catch Your Breath

S

hortness of breath triggered by internal and external factors or exercise is known as asthma, or Reactive Airway Disease. It is a chronic lung disease and the most common respiratory ailment. According to the global burden of disease study in 2015, an estimated 358 million people worldwide are living with asthma.

Asthma is a term used to describe narrowing or tightness of the airways, caused by inflammation or increased mucus and secretions. The most common signs of asthma are wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath, although not all symptoms are experienced by everyone, and are dependent on the type of asthma that has been diagnosed.

The most common forms of asthma are: Allergic Asthma — Allergies and asthma are often closely linked. It is common for an allergy to cause inflammation

of the inside lining of the nose.

Common triggers are dust, pet hairs and pollen; when the body senses these substances a histamine response is triggered leading to watering eyes, a runny nose and sneezes.

Exercise Induced Asthma — This is often experienced by people diagnosed with asthma but is also seen in people who experience it only when exercising. Narrowing of the airways begins a few minutes after exercise starts and can continue even once exercise stops. The narrowing of the airways makes it difficult to breath and doctors often recommend taking an inhaler before exercise.

Cough Variant Asthma — This type of asthma is usually triggered by an infection or disease, but a persistent cough can also be caused by post nasal drip, sinusitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease; so careful investigation is needed to confirm a diagnosis of asthma.

Occupational Asthma — Tends to have similar symptoms to allergic asthma: watery eyes, runny nose and sometimes a cough rather than the typical asthmatic wheeze. Usually it is triggered by fumes, dust or chemicals.

Nocturnal Asthma — As the name implies, this tends to affect people at night. It does not usually prevent people from falling asleep but after a few hours they may wake up wheezing and feeling short of breath.

Asthma can affect people of all ages and although it typically starts in childhood, it is not unknown for it to begin in adulthood. It has been found that some children with mild asthma will grow out of their symptoms by the time they reach adulthood.

There is no definitive test for diagnosing asthma. Asthma is usually confirmed by the presence of symptoms although by the time most people visit their doctor the symptoms

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have disappeared. Attacks are usually seasonal, or brought on by triggers. So, after asking a series of questions about symptoms a diagnosis may be confirmed by performing lung function tests that measure how much air can be expelled in one breath (spirometry test) or measuring how fast you can breathe out after taking in a deep breath (peak flow test).

Although these tests are good indicators of lung function, your doctor may still want to perform other tests that may trigger symptoms, but this is not always necessary.

There is no cure for asthma and the aim of treatment is control of the symptoms through the use of preventative or reliever inhalers, or in the case of allergic asthma an antihistamine may help with the symptoms caused by the histamine response.

Although most times asthma can be controlled and presents no disruption to everyday activities, uncontrolled asthma can be debilitating and lead to life-threatening symptoms. There are also times that resistance to medication can lead to uncontrolled symptoms. Being unable to catch your breath can be a scary experience and, in some cases, can be fatal.

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

Using an inhaler can help control symptons of asthma.

That is why it is important to implement a management plan, develop coping strategies and learn breathing techniques.

A physiotherapist can help you put these things in place. Physiotherapists are skilled professionals who have expertise in respiratory conditions and can teach you specialist breathing techniques,

such as Butekyo and Papworth methods of breathing, that can help you breathe in a more relaxed way. They can also help you manage symptoms of coughing, wheezing, excess secretions and shortness of breath. So take control now and take steps to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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

THE STAR

HEALTH

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

21

Understanding Dementia

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Unexplainable Mood Changes

hen dealing with illness, each condition has its own set of warning signs. For Alzheimer’s disease, there are ten of them. In this week’s column we will discuss warning sign number eight. If you or anyone you know experiences any of these warning signs see your doctor or contact the Saint Lucia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association for more information or for a memory screening.

change within a matter of seconds for no apparent reason.

On the other hand, a person with these brain changes may show very little difference in their emotions. It may appear their personality has changed.

They become confused, fearful or anxious and can be easily upset at home, work, with friends or anytime they are out of their comfort zone.

As people age it is normal to develop specific ways of doing things and become irritable when the routine is Warning Sign Eight: Changes in disrupted. When this happens mood and behaviour more frequently, oftentimes the

People with dementia person becomes out of control may become extremely moody and a diagnosis of a mental and their emotions sometimes illness is given. This can be

very harmful if psychotropic medication is administered to the person with a specific dementia type like Lewy body dementia. These behaviours can happen quickly and suddenly so it is important to make sure the cause is not a medical condition such as pain from an unwitnessed fall, as an example.

Because most people aren’t aware that behavioural changes may be caused by dementia, it is very common for the first line of treatment to chemically restrain a person exhibiting anxiety, agitation, confusion or aggressive behaviours. Although this might be the best solution in

Taiwan Can Help

I

n the fast-changing international landscape where countries are facing unprecedented challenges, the need for collaboration has never been greater. As a vibrant democracy and responsible stakeholder in the global community, Taiwan is committed to being part of the solution.

Showcasing its readiness and ability to contribute to multilateral initiatives, the country launched a U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) campaign in September with events on the sidelines of the 73rd General Assembly in New York. Themed U.N. Global Goals—Taiwan Can Help, it called for a resolution to the issue of the nation’s exclusion from the U.N. system and highlighted its desire and qualifications to assist in the achievement of the SDGs. It also spotlighted Taiwan’s efforts to help other nations accomplish these goals in areas like environmental protection and medical care through the work of International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF), the country’s foremost foreign aid organisation.

Collaboration is also fundamental to tackling one of the key threats to global security today: climate change.

Despite being excluded from the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the major platform for limiting greenhouse gas emissions,

Taiwan is a staunch supporter of the convention and continues to pursue meaningful participation.

Thanks to the nation’s vibrant civil society, 10 Taiwan nongovernmental organisations have been granted observer status by the UNFCCC and are expected to attend the next Conference of the Parties December 3-14 in Katowice, Poland.

While the country is unwavering in its efforts to advance global cooperation, it is also a major partner in regional initiatives. A member economy of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) since 1991, Taiwan has been at the forefront of a slew of successful development programmes. In recent years it has worked to deliver tangible progress in such areas as gender equality and the growth of small and medium enterprises (SME). The Economy Forum in September approved two Taiwan proposals on female empowerment in the energy sector and start-ups.

The country has also been spearheading the APEC Onlineto-Offline Program, a four-year initiative aimed at enhancing the digital competitiveness and resilience of SMEs.

Cooperation with nations in the region has been strengthened through Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy (NSP). A key plank in the country’s national development strategy, the NSP seeks to deepen Taiwan’s agricultural, business, cultural, education,

tourism and trade ties with the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations member states, six South Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand. Its accomplishments can be seen across a broad spectrum of areas.

Bilateral trade with target countries climbed 15 per cent last year, with Taiwan’s investment in the nations rising by 54 per cent during the same period.

The country is also working with the U.S. to enhance long-term regional prosperity through the Pacific Islands Leadership Program with Taiwan. The capacitybuilding project is aimed at helping participants develop governance skills and vision.

Organised by the Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with Hawaii-based East-West Center, the programme this year enrolled 22 young professionals from 12 countries including diplomatic allies Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu.

Whether from a global or regional perspective, Taiwan is a committed and responsible partner actively engaging with like-minded countries to solve the most pressing issues of our time. Determined in this endeavour, the nation will continue to pursue greater international participation under the principle that Taiwan can help.

emergency situations, it should never be an ongoing treatment, especially if the doctor has diagnosed them with dementia.

It is critical for family to be present at doctor appointments to relay reliable information. If all medical conditions are ruled out, the next step is to deal with the person with a positive approach.

Dementia is no longer considered a diagnosis, it is a syndrome, an umbrella term for a collection of symptoms. It is not a disease. We now know that if someone is diagnosed with dementia, the doctor at this time does not know the cause of the symptoms. Therefore, psychotropic medication with Alzheimer’s medication should not be the first line of treatment until a confirmed diagnosis is made.

Questions about warning signs: Q: My mother was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia

in Martinique a year ago. She is only 38. Her personality has completely changed. We have lots of family support but we are struggling to deal with her.

She has good days and bad days. The bad days are quite stressful for all of us. She gets very angry when we correct her and try to help her to do things that are good for her.

She often stays in her bedroom and doesn’t want to come out.

We hate seeing her like this.

How can we help her?

ask what may have triggered this behaviour. In other words, if we were in her shoes, how would we respond emotionally?

Addressing the emotions of the person with dementia will help you understand their reaction, therefore you are empowered to make a change and try your approach in a more positive way.

This approach takes practice.

But if you keep trying, you will decrease stress levels for both you and the person you’re caring for.

A: With early stages a person may become frustrated with the changes that are happening and unable to process it all appropriately. This can be very challenging when living with someone with this symptom. The best approach is to consider some ground rules for yourself. Understand that you cannot change the person. Behaviour usually has a purpose and is triggered, which means caregivers have to become detectives and

Regina Posvar is the current president of the Saint Lucia Alzheimer’s and Dementia Association and has been a licensed nurse for 25 years.

SLADA is supported by volunteers and donations and aims to bring awareness and support by providing awareness public workshops, family support, memory screenings, the Memory Café, counselling and family training for coping skills and communication with persons living with dementia.

A leader in the Sales and Distribution sector in St Lucia, we are seeking to hire PASSIONATE, DEDICATED, COMMITTED AND FOCUSSED people to join our team. If you are a registered Pharmacist, solution oriented, sales and results driven, and can thrive in a dynamic, fast paced environment, an exciting career opportunity awaits you for the post of:

PHARMACIST THE ROLE • Serves customers by preparing for dispatch, purchase orders for pharmaceuticals items.

• Preparing medication prescribed by an authorized Medical, Dental or Veterinary Practitioner.

• Giving pharmacological information to multidisciplinary health care teams.

THE CANDIDATE • Must be a registered Pharmacist with a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy.

• At least one (1) years’ experience of pharmacy practice.

• Sound knowledge of the Pharmacy Act and Regulations of St Lucia.

• A general understanding of the Pharmaceutical retail sector.

• Must have strong commercial awareness.

• Must have a strong knowledge of the sales and distribution industry.

• Must have strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise others.

• Must be passionate about sales and building strong relations.

• Must have strong negotiation and analytical skills.

• Must be results driven with a can-do attitude and an unfailing aptitude to deliver.

• Must have strong time management, planning and organizing ability.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS Due to the island wide travel requirements of this job, applicants are required to have a road worthy vehicle to facilitate conducting company business related to the position.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package which will be influenced by the successful candidate’s qualifications, experience and competence.

Applications with current résumé, certified copies of certificates and at least two listed references, must be submitted on or before December 03rd, 2018 to: Application: Post of Pharmacist Peter and Company Distribution, Box 84/85. Castries. Or email pcd.hr@thegelgroup. com.

Only suitable applicants will be acknowledge.

Peter and Company Distribution is a member of the CDP and GEL Group of Companies

22 INTERNATIONAL

NOVEMBER 24, 2018 THE STAR

WWW.STLUCIASTAR.COM

Confused About Brexit? Here’s What You Need to Know

T

he U.K. and European Union negotiators have struck a Brexit deal and EU leaders are set to sign off on it on Sunday. But it’s far from over yet. Prime Minister Theresa May’s political opponents at home are trying to thwart the agreement. It’s hard to see how she’ll win the necessary approval from the British Parliament, where she doesn’t have a majority and faces opposition on all sides. Yet many lawmakers from May’s Conservative Party are hesitant to undermine her with Jeremy Corbyn’s socialist Labour Party itching to take power. Here’s a guide to navigating the most perilous part of Brexit.

while treating Northern Ireland differently. May’s parliamentary whips are trying to poach support in the Labour Party while turning the screws on their own.

3. What happens if Parliament votes no?

Things get murky. Labour will push for a general election, but it’s not clear the party will succeed. The chaos that ensues provides the best opportunity for lawmakers to trigger a second referendum in a re-run of the June 2016 vote to leave the EU. For now, there’s not enough support for it in Parliament, but that could change. There’s a chance that if the deal is voted down, Britain would crash out of the bloc into a “no-deal” legal limbo that could snarl trade and freeze markets. Bottlenecks could bring shortages of everything from food to drugs and

1. What’s the deal?

It’s the most important international agreement in Britain’s postwar history. The deal sets out the terms of separation that allow the U.K. to depart the EU on March 29 in an orderly fashion — and brings with it a 21-month grace period to give everyone time to adjust. Alongside it is a political number of countries have declaration that outlines how restricted arms sales to the two sides want to trade in Saudi Arabia since the the future, though the details of a free-trade agreement will take kingdom began airstrikes on Yemen in 2015, in a war that years to work out. the UN describes as the world's worst man-made humanitarian 2. What now? disaster.

May is rallying support from Calls for more restrictions business groups and appealing on arms exports have been directly to voters. The decision growing, particularly in Europe, will hang on just a handful of since the killing of journalist votes in Parliament. There is Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi opposition on all sides: proconsulate in Turkey last month.

Brexit hardliners among May’s US President Donald Trump, Tories, pro-EU Conservatives, however, has repeatedly pointed the Northern Irish party to the US' lucrative arms deals that’s been propping up the with the Saudis as a reason to government and nearly all of stand by the kingdom. the opposition Labour Party.

Denmark and Finland on The main objection is that the Thursday became the latest guarantees May has offered to countries to suspend new arms make sure a new new border deals with Saudi Arabia. Finland doesn’t emerge on the divided island of Ireland risk binding the also banned new arms sales to the United Arab Emirates, which U.K. to EU rules forever. They argue that she’s caved to the EU is part of the Saudi-led coalition in the conflict. and betrayed the electorate’s

Their announcements call to regain sovereignty,

should happen before another EU summit on Dec. 13-14.

One lawmaker calculated it can’t happen before Dec. 3.

Parliament goes into recess on Dec. 20, though the vacation could be scrapped at a push.

The deal must also clear the European Parliament, but that’s expected to be a formality.

Brexit is the most important international agreement in Britain’s postwar history.

manufacturing components. But there’s another scenario: May is sent back to Brussels to try to extract what would probably be nothing more than token concessions. She can keep putting the deal to lawmakers until they cave — and the whips might just hope that crashing financial markets will encourage lawmakers to vote

with the prospect of job losses and food shortages in mind.

4. So when’s the vote?

That’s the question on everyone’s lips — especially traders in the British pound, as the currency’s been whipsawed by events. The expectation is sometime in December.

There’s some speculation it

leader. That’s different than a Parliament-wide vote of no confidence in the government, which could pave the way to a general election.

6. How does the financial industry emerge from this?

The deal — once it’s through the U.K. Parliament — brings some relief to London’s financial 5. Could May get pushed out? hub because the grace period It’s possible, though so far buys time. But because of the efforts have failed. On Nov. way the talks were structured, 16, pro-Brexit Conservatives there’s still not total clarity mounted an effort to trigger about how banks will operate a no-confidence vote in her in the future. What is known is as party leader. They need 48 that there’s a big downgrade of the 315 Tory lawmakers from the status quo. U.K. banks to send in letters to spark a will have to use the same or a vote, which would be held as similar regime to the one U.S. soon as possible. The number and Japanese banks use now of letters received is never — it’s called “equivalence” confirmed, but only about half and it has lots of pitfalls. The that number were announced U.K. and the EU will try to get publicly. A larger number of Tory the new arrangements in place lawmakers -- 158 -- would need before the grace period ends. to vote to replace her as party ---Bloomberg

These are the Countries still selling Arms to Saudi Arabia

A

came just two days after Germany said it was stopping all arms transfers to the kingdom.

Denmark and Finland are not major suppliers of weapons to Saudi Arabia, but Germany certainly is. It had already suspended new arms deals to Saudi Arabia, but on Monday it widened that ban to include the transfers of weapons on existing orders as well.

So where is Saudi Arabia getting its weapons from?

Arms deals are often done in secret or with little publicity.

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) tries to track deals involving major weapons, and a database of Saudi imports from the last decade shows the United States as the biggest supplier, followed by the United Kingdom, France, Spain and then Germany.

But a lot of exporters still selling to the Saudis have dramatically decreased their

supply in recent years. The United Kingdom, for example, transferred arms worth an estimated $843 million in 2016 but almost halved that value to $436 million last year, according to SIPRI. (The database uses values constant with 1990 prices to eliminate currency fluctuations and inflation.)

French exports of major weapons to Saudi Arabia were worth $174 million in 2015 but dropped to $91 million in 2016 and $27 million last year. The value of Spanish exports also dramatically decreased in that time period, but the Spanish government confirmed this year it would go ahead with arms deals it had previously suggested it would freeze, bowing to pressure from Spanish manufacturers, according to reports.

Despite these decreases, the overall value of Saudi weapons imports actually

increased by 38% between 2016 and 2017. That was almost entirely because of a huge uptick in transfers from the United States, which almost doubled its exports in terms of value from $1.8 billion to $3.4 billion in that time. Germany also multiplied its exports from $14 million to $105 million, although it is expected to be much lower this year following its suspension.

In a statement on Tuesday, Trump said that canceling major arms contracts with the Saudis would be foolish, and that "Russia and China would be the enormous beneficiaries" if the US halted its sales.

China supplies a negligible amount of major weaponry to Saudi Arabia, SIPRI data shows, but it is on the increase.

Russia supplies so little it is not included in the organization's database."Russia has tried hard in the past 10 to 15 years to

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get into the large Saudi arms market, but it has not been very successful. Saudi Arabia has acquired Russian rifles and may have bought some other items, but such deals have been very small," said Pieter Wezeman, a senior researcher with SIPRI's arms transfers and military expenditure program.

"China has made some more substantial inroads into the Saudi arms market, in particular selling armed drones," Wezeman said. "The details are shady and we may very well have underestimated China's role as an arms exporter to Saudi Arabia. But China doesn't come anywhere near the USA, UK or even France as arms suppliers. Still, the important point here is that Saudi Arabia has explored the possibility of diversifying its supplier base."

---CNN

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 24, 2018

CLASSIFIED 23

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Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Saint Lucia

is currently seeking applications from eligible applicants for the post

NATIONAL STAFF Duties • Facilitate coordination among government agencies, non-government agencies and other agencies in the countries of Saint Lucia, St. Vincent, Dominica, Grenada, Antigua &

Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname and Guyana and

our ODA programs including Grant Aid, ODA Loans program, Training program, Technical

co-operation, Volunteer program and others.

• Be responsible for logistics.

• Increase visibility and awareness of JICA activities through traditional and social media.

• Carry out related tasks as requested.

Qualifications and Experience • 2 to 3 years’ experience working in Grant Aid, ODA Loans, bi-lateral training programs

and other forms of international aid. Previous experience with JICA or Japanese agencies preferable.

• Strong connections to government departments in St. Lucia and CARICOM. • Excellent negotiating skills, communication, and presentation skills.

• Successful candidates should be knowledgeable of Japan Official Development

Assistance and socio-political climate in CARICOM countries.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

• Valid passport and driver’s license are necessary.

Application • Submit CV and resume to LatoyafulchereVsc.SC@jica.go.jp with ‘JICA National Staff’ in the ‘Subject’ line of the email. All attachments must be in Microsoft Word format or PDF. Applications must be received by 5th of December, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. (-4:00GMT).

Applications received after this time will not be considered. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE (PROBATE) SAINT LUCIA Claim No. SLUHPB2018/0199

IN THE ESTATE of the late Agabius Lewis.

And

IN THE MATTER of the application for first grant more than three years after death of intestate.

And

IN THE MATTER of Rule 22 of NonContentious Probate and Administration of Estates – Rules.

ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT

TAKE NOTICE that an application has been filed by Dorothy Lewis of Caye Manger, La Feuillet in the Quarter of Gros Islet in the State of Saint Lucia for a grant of Letters of Administration to the applicant who is the wife of THE DECEASED having died on the 16th October, 2009.

Any person having 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 November, 2018

THIS ADVERTISEMENT OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT is filed by Winston Hinkson and Associates Per: Winston Hinkson of Chambers 1st Floor – John Compton Building, William Peter Boulevard, Castries, St. Lucia; Tel: (758)452 1665; email: winhinkson@yahoo.com The Court Office is at La Place Carenage, Castries, Saint Lucia.Telephone No. (758)468 7500, Fax No. (758)468-7543. The office is open between 9:00 a.m and 2:00 p.m Monday – Thursday and 9:00 and 3:00 p.m Fridays except holidays. The office can also be contacted via email at stluhco@ eccourts.org

Selling a house?

Have an apartment to rent?

Want your car sold?

ADVERTISE IT!!

Get great results with a STAR Classified Ad Call the advertising department

Tel: 450-7827 or Fax at 450-8690

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale in Soufriere 2600 Sq ft.

4-Bedroom, 1 bath, laundry/ utility extension. Great location close proximity to all available amenities.

Potential for commercial use Serious buyers/ enquirers only Call:

286 6190 FOR RENT Furnished house for rent at Beausejour Phase 2.

3 bedroom, 2 bath, master bedroom, hot and cold water, cable, internet and parking.

Call: 518-6208 1 unfurnished one bedroom spacious apartment for rent at Beausejour, Gros Islet $750.00 monthly. No utilities included.

Contact: 724 7747/ 722 8563/ 520-1444 2 Bedrooms one Bath fully furnished house with laundry room downstairs and storage situated in Phase one, Beausejour, Gros Islet.

Lovely view of the stadium. $1,650.00 water included Tel: 520-1444

FOR RENT:

BEAUSEJOUR GARDENS DRIVE NEWLY RENOVATED, FULLY FURNISHED, 2-BEDROOM BOTTOM APARTMENT WITH MORDERN APPLIANCES IN UPSCALE RESIDENTIAL AREA. AMENITIES INCLUDE: SECURE & GATED FACILITY, AIR CONDITIONED BEDROOMS, AMPLE PARKING, WATER & GROUND MAINTENANCE. CALL:

720-4545/720-0333/720-2986

BUZZ RESTAURANT

invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the following positions:

• Kitchen Steward • Bartender • Sous Chef (must be able to run a kitchen in absence of chef)

• Waitress Restaurant and/or hotel experience a must. We are looking for ONLY the BEST in personality and skills/ experience! If you are NOT the best don’t apply Applications including a detailed Curriculum Vitae should be emailed to buzzreservations@gmail.com ONLY applicants that meet the above criteria will be contacted.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2018

www.stluciastar.com

$2.00

Photo by Bill Mortley

Talk about mixed messages!

S&S

LAYAWAY NOW AVAILABLE AT S&S THE PRICEBUSTERS

CHRISMAS DOILIES

$3.50

Come and apply for your S & S Loyalty Card

CHRISTMAS GIFT BAGS

$1.00

Bois D Orange • Castries • Vieux Fort www.facebook.com/the.pricebusters

CHRISTMAS TIARAS $2.50

CHRISTMAS TREE SKIRTS $6.00

DOOR DECORATIONS

$4.75

GREEN WIRE GARLANDS

$9.50

Also on special: CHIRSTMAS TREE ICICLES $2, CHRISTMAS TREE BELS 9 FOR $2.75, POINSETTIA FLOWER

DECORATIONS 4 FOR $3.25, FOIL OFFICE STREAMERS FROM $3.25, WIRE GARLANDS FROM $9.50, CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS FROM $4.75, BATTERY OPERATED CHRISTMAS LIGHTS $14, CHRISTMAS CARDS $2.75, MERRY CHRISTMAS BANNERS $3.75, METAL GARLAND ROLLS $4.50, CHRISTMAS GIFT BAGS $1, CHRISTMAS TREE STARS $2.50

Printed and published by STAR Publishing Co. (1987) Ltd., Rodney Bay Industrial Estate, Massade, Gros Islet, P.O. Box 1146, Castries, St. Lucia, W.I., Tel: (758) 450-7827 Fax: (758) 450-8690, Email: info@stluciastar.com Website: www.stluciastar.com