The Juffali Affair: What Does He Know, That Al Jazeera Knows, That Pierre Doesn't?

SATURDAY, november 30, 2019

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THE JUFFALI AFFAIR What Does He Know That Al Jazeera Knows That Pierre Doesn’t?

Did Kenny Anthony’s due diligence reveal Saudi billionaire was stricken with cancer when he appointed him St. Lucia’s IMO ambassador with all immunities?

Did PM know Saudi planned to use St. Lucia in his court battle with his divorced wife?

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COD BE PRAISED E

arlier this week I went fishing for cod. The last time I did that was about thirty-five years ago. We were in a boat on the Gulf of Paria and safely, we hoped, within the maritime border with Venezuela.

My diver-friend Henry, better known as Sploof because when his teacher asked him “What is the plural of roof?” he said “Sploof”, was in the water with a speargun. I had joked that his weaponry was no match for a cod. In fact, I had asked the guys on the boat, “What swims in the sea, carries a machine gun, and makes you an offer you can't refuse?” They had said “Venezuelan Soldiers”, meaning the feared Guardia Nacional Bolavarina (also called, ironically, the Armed Forces of Co-operation), who would as easily co-operate with one another in taking your life, as well as your boat, net and engine. I laughed and replied, “Not them. The only fish that can make you an offer you can’t

refuse is the Codfather.”

It was even more ironic than the Guardia calling themselves “co-operative” that Sploof had an encounter with a cod and came second. This one was not armed but finned.

Sploof was on the surface, gun in hand, heading towards the boat and came face-to-face with a large codfish. He shot at the cod, the fish thrashed about with its tail, and the blow to the back of Sploof’s head—what Trinis call a “tap” but was more like a stopcock—required Phensic for an entire week. We joked about singing a hymn for Sploof, “Nearer My Cod To Thee”, but seeing a cod in the southern waters of the Atlantic, so close to the equator, was a first for me.

The fact is that for a long time now, since the 1850s, cod catches have been declining.

In one of the major cod fishing areas, the Gulf of Maine, the annual catch has dropped from 70,000 tonnes in 1861 to just

to buy it "by the piece”, asking the shopkeeper for a “penny’s worth” or a “pinch” which flavoured all the provisions and rice. The Calypsonian Sparrow is an aficionado. He boasts, “Nothing in the world is sweeter a few thousand. Additionally, than salt-fish.” He also makes codfish are getting smaller up in enthusiasm what he lacks and have shrunk about 30% in in discrimination, pointing out, the last thirty years because “When you want to eat, all harvesting all the big fish salt-fish sweet.” This is where has caused the average size I disagree with him. Nothing to be drastically reduced. I beats the genuine article, the consider this a tragedy. We in the Caribbean have in common Cod Almighty.

I have heard it said in a love for salt-fish and other Trinidad especially, “When foods associated with slavery God can’t come he does send and indentureship. Fresh meat was denied to the labourers and a man” and I have seen that they had to subsist on salt-fish, where cod is scarce we pressgang other substitutes, like salt “kine” (pork) and canned pollock in the northern seas or foods like sardines. Over the shark and catfish here in the years we have continued our region. But having been born love affair with salt-fish even right after the Second World though it was initially part of our punishment and the penalty War, when almost everything edible was rationed, I grew up we paid for not being white. on salted cod and the other

This love of salt-fish preserved common piscine is universal and makes it option, “smoked herring” or, ubiquitous in the Caribbean. as it is known in Jamaica, Whether in Indian food, Bajan “Solomon Gundy”. This is why fishcakes or Trinidad accras, I cannot stand the substitutes Spanish bacalao or Jamaican for cod and herring which cost ackee and salt-fish, it is omnipresent in the region, used much more in the region than and appreciated by all. We used the genuine cod and herring

november 30, 2019 THE STAR

are sold for abroad. The whole thing is what the British would describe as “a load of codswallop”.

This is how I ended up fishing for cod last week—not in the sea but the dictionary.

After “codswallop”, meaning “nonsense”, the first COD I caught, in fact it caught me and my attention simultaneously, was COD meaning “Call Of Duty” which started off as a “shooter” game and has now reached the modern warfare stage. For me and my generation, COD was not a game but the “Call Of Dasheen” which is still my tuber of choice when there is chopped-up codfish swimming in oil, garlic, onion and pepper.

In legal terms this combination not only weakens my will but is enhanced by a codicil. There is also COD meaning what the shopkeepers (and others) demand these days for a little piece of salt-fish—Cash On Delivery.

The one that caught me hook, line and sinker by the appropriate anatomical appendage was “Codpiece” which, according to one commentator, “drew attention to a part of the anatomy that

couldn’t even be mentioned in polite society”.

“Codpiece” comes from an old English word, “cod”, meaning “scrotum” and is generally a pouch enclosing the genital area. In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries it was no big thing to wear one and, even today, people who are into rock, metal and leather find these garments swell. In cricket, what is called a “box” to protect the genitals of batsmen (in use long before helmets) is essentially a codpiece.

As an aside, and more a spoof than a Sploof, I end with this quote from historian Victoria Bartels: “For me, the interesting thing about 16th century male fashion is the way in which it reveals what was important to men at this time—their preoccupation with masculinity, military prowess and virility.” I wonder what she would say about my passion for cod in pieces rather than in piece?

Tony Deyal was last seen saying that in American drug-slang, “COD” means “a large piece of money”.

It is no different, and might be worse, in the Caribbean.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Youth Aflame 2019 Christmas Production is Here!

Forty Recommendations T 37: Mutual Legal Assistance By the Attorney General’s Chambers and the National Anti-Money Laundering Oversight Committee (NAMLOC)

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n an effort to combat crimes which are committed across borders, countries utilize mutual legal assistance.

Mutual legal assistance is a form of co-operation between countries with the primary aim of collecting and exchanging information. There are instances where authorities in one country may seek to gather evidence which is located in another country. The importance of this process is highlighted in Recommendation 37 of the Financial Action Task Force Forty Recommendations.

This recommendation requires countries to effectively and efficiently provide mutual legal assistance in relation to money laundering, predicate offences and terrorist financing investigations. It is incumbent upon a country

to have adequate legal basis for providing the assistance.

This can be bolstered by treaties, arrangements or other mechanisms to facilitate cooperation.

In order to facilitate this co-operation, countries are to ensure that they do not place unreasonable restrictive conditions on the provision of mutual legal assistance, neither should they refuse to execute a request for mutual legal assistance on the basis of financial institutions and DNFBP secrecy and confidentiality “except where the relevant information that is sought is held in circumstances where legal professional privilege or legal professional secrecy applies”.

It is incumbent upon countries when they are making mutual legal assistance requests to provide complete factual information.

It is also important that countries ascertain the legal requirements, prior to sending a request to another country

for assistance. This will facilitate the timely execution of the mutual legal assistance requests.

The central authority which has responsibility for mutual legal assistance should have adequate financial, human and technical resources. It is also important that the competent authority employs staff with the highest integrity and ensures that the staff maintain a high level of professionalism.

The legislation covering mutual legal assistance in Saint Lucia is the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act, Cap. 3.03.

More information on the FATF Forty Recommendations can be found on the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) website at https://www.cfatf-gafic.org.

Additional articles and educational material can also be found on the Attorney General’s Chambers website at attorneygeneralchambers.com or its Facebook page.

he saying "Another one bites the dust” is often associated with the phenomena of another person who has fallen out of the race, competition or pathway. In a world where there is a certain stigma attached to youth and violence, youth delinquency and societal ills attached to young people—who are often seen as society’s pariahs—many juveniles continue biting the dust. However, Youth Aflame continues to be a remnant of hope.

Founded almost 30 years ago, Youth Aflame of the Streams of Power Ministries, under the leadership of Mrs. Jennifer Combie, has been fostering change throughout Saint Lucia. As a youth group predominantly for the age range of 4–17 years, Youth Aflame has remained a relevant pillar in society as it continues on its journey of alleviating juvenile delinquency and poverty within society.

As a non-profit organisation, Youth Aflame has always gathered its resources and sought funding through sponsorships, cake sales and donations. One of its major revenue generators,

scenes from Youth Aflame’s 2018 Production.

however, is a dance and drama production. Now in its 17th year, this production continues funding the annual food and toy drive. Every year Youth Aflame proceeds to four different communities island-wide, blessing 100 children and adults in each community with food items including, but not limited to, rice, sugar, flour, milk, oil and tuna fish. More so, each child receives a gift of a toy and clothing items. This has been the norm for the last 25 years.

This year’s production seeks to achieve the same goal.

'A Broken Christmas Promise' will be staged on Sunday December 8, 2019 at 7:30 pm at the National Cultural Centre.

Tickets cost $30.00 for adults;

$15.00 for children 12 and under. All funds received go directly into the island-wide toy and food drive.

“Seeing a child’s eye light up when they receive a gift, knowing that their mommy or daddy could not have afforded them one, is one of the greatest sights,” one of the members commented.

The public is asked to support as Youth Aflame continues fostering positive change in the lives of young people throughout Saint Lucia.

If one wishes to donate to Youth Aflame, whether it be monetary or clothing and food items, the donation can be made to Streams of Power Ministries on Waterworks Road.

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

The Al Jazeera Bombshell:

Why did Kenny Anthony Stick his Two Fingers at the Foreign Office?

The Al Jazeera documentary spent much of its runtime on the Alireza Monfared scandal in Dominica, but it also made clear that the root of these scandals involving the issuance (or sale) of diplomatic passports for immunity, started with Saint Lucia’s Juffali affair.

Pictured left to right: Kenny Anthony, Philip J Pierre, Ernest Hilaire, Walid Juffali.

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Davies and her team had done their homework. Her interview with Geoffery Robertson was particularly ear-perking, with the legendary QC declaring: l Jazeera’s Investigative “Time and again we find that Unit has discovered the these small countries, often secret sale of diplomatic after bribes are paid, will passports has helped keep qualify people with no some Caribbean politicians in connection, no experience, but power.” So went Al Jazeera’s who are international criminals, tease to its near hour-long or who need, for some dubious documentary that has sent reason, the protection, the shockwaves throughout Saint Lucia. Upon hearing it, the name shield of diplomatic immunity, Walid Juffali immediately came and they buy it. It’s just a scandal, an international to mind. But when on Monday scandal.” night the full documentary The decision to interview aired, it was clear that the main Robertson was no accident. focus would be on Dominica’s He just so happens to be a diplomatic dalliances with former UN judge, a human shady foreign characters. rights barrister and legal Nevertheless, not to be missed representative of Christina was that at the heart of this Estrada in her dirty divorce suit diplomatic scandal was Saint against Walid Juffali in 2016, Lucia’s diplomatic relationship before the British Courts. with a Saudi multi-billionaire

In the documentary almost four years ago.

Robertson spoke about the

Deborah Davies of origins of what is known here Al Jazeera’s Investigative as the Juffali affair. “So, how Unit, widely known for her do you get out of a law that exceptional work in the everyone else has to obey?” documentary: The Dark Side: asks the QC rhetorically. “Very Secrets of the Sports Dopers, simple, sail off to Saint Lucia. left no stone unturned in this And lo and behold, in no time investigative report on Iranian he [Juffali] was made the national Alireza Monfared, how and why he was able to become ambassador to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Ambassador of Dominica to And he never turned up. For Malaysia. two years he never turned up.

It was clear from the And yet when his wife made onset of the documentary that Dean Nestor

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an application for money he claimed immunity; diplomatic immunity as a shield. Now that was obviously outrageous.”

This 2016 report sheds light on what Robertson meant by “in no time”: “After separating from Ms Estrada in October 2013, Mr Juffali is alleged to have visited the Caribbean island [St Lucia] for the first time. Less than two months later, within 12 weeks, the IMO was notified of the Saint Lucian government’s request to appoint him to the [ambassadorial] role. On September 4, 2014 he was finally added to the London Diplomatic List. Just 13 days later, once immunity was secured, he divorced Ms Estrada in Saudi Arabia without her knowledge.”

How quickly our government can work when motivated. And for a foreigner at that!

As for the 2016 report, it came courtesy of Mark Stephens, an ex-President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. Stephens also appears in the Al Jazeera documentary, to state the obvious: “Being an ambassador is somebody who represents at the highest levels, and with the highest levels of probity and integrity their country and their country’s interests. Invariably

that person is a citizen and a national, a domicile of the country who appoints them.”

That, for the most part, as the Al Jazeera investigative team uncovered, has not been the case in the region— particularly not with Juffali’s appointment. Truth be told, there is little in the Al Jazeera report on the Juffali affair that would be altogether new to readers of this paper.

The January 30, 2016 edition of the STAR had reproduced a Daily Telegraph piece by Stephens that was particularly damning of the then Kenny Anthony administration: “As former President of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association,” wrote Stephens, “I’m struggling to think of any more cowardly abuse of the mighty institution that is diplomatic immunity. But beyond the specifics of the case, these proceedings should also be seen as a test for the British legal system. If Mr Juffali is successful in having his wife’s claim for financial relief struck out by the courts, and Kenny Anthony’s government in Saint Lucia is allowed to maintain its stance of simply sticking two fingers up at the Foreign Office, then I have no doubt it will set a precedent across the entire international community.”

By sticking two fingers up at the Foreign Office, Stephens was referring to the Kenny Anthony administration’s stubborn refusal even to suspend Juffali’s diplomatic immunity so he might appear before the British courts in the matter of his wife’s divorce settlement.

In the remembered Daily Telegraph article Stephens predicted: “Corrupt and morally-bankrupt regimes will become a magnet for wealthy people simply looking for protection from the law.

Indeed, elite law firms are already rumoured to have been approached by superrich individuals wanting to “do a Juffali” and obtain similar diplomatic privileges as a direct result of this case.”

Stephens went on: “It is scandalous that the Saint Lucia government is facilitating Mr Juffali’s attempts to avoid justice, and the very fact they have chosen not to waive his immunity makes a mockery of the Vienna Convention.”

If there is anything new about Al Jazeera’s reporting on Juffali specifically, it’s the scope of the impact it’s had in the years following. According to Stephens, not only did the Kenny Anthony administration set a horrible precedent for

Saint Lucia, it’s a precedent that has had reverberations throughout the region and around the world. To quote Stephens again: “Indeed, elite law firms are already rumoured to have been approached by super-rich individuals wanting to “do a Juffali” and obtain similar diplomatic privileges as a direct result of this case.”

Now, almost four years after the Stephens article in the Daily Telegraph, we have an Al Jazeera report exposing how the sale of diplomatic passports for the sake of diplomatic immunity is a practice that has spread to other Eastern Caribbean states. Ironically, Kenny Anthony’s refusal to bend to the Foreign Office’s request for a suspension of Juffali’s diplomatic immunity status was because “to do so would give Saint Lucia a bad name”. As if already the Saudi’s divorce proceedings had not already seen to that, now comes the Al Jazeera documentary!

Doubtless the SLP’s new leader and his first deputy will, in the days ahead, offer their version of the Juffali affair—including why we made the Saudi our diplomatic representative at the IMO and why it was so important to him to be immunized against his ex-wife’s divorce settlement!

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

COMMENT 05

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ON THE WHIPPING OF OUR CHILDREN

And so, having abandoned these sources and uses of understanding and expression, we have also abandoned CULTURE and the ARTS . . . those temples of identity and relevance where the human spirit passes through its own portals of exploration, self-discovery, understanding, affirmation, and validation.

As for CIVICS and ETHICS . . .

As generally appeciated as are the gifts bestowed on this child following her widely publicized abuse by a relative, still it reminds of the chronic batterer showering on his bruised victim flowers and his brand of love with empty promises never to repeat the abuse!

By Adrian Augier

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ome time ago we abandoned the systematic passing-on of our collective humanity. We abandoned the teaching of our own HISTORY in any way which might tell us who we really are, whence we have come, and the magnitude of the struggle in which we, as aspiring people of colour, are all engaged, to better ourselves and our generations, in a world which cares little for our wellbeing.

We also abandoned the meaningful teaching of our LITERATURE . . . the greatest value of which might be to acquaint us with our souls, our inner landscapes, the full spectrum of our human emotion—beyond anger, greed, contempt, selfishness—toward nobility, compassion, love, heroism, courage, empathy and the twin joys of endeavour and achievement.

We have since abandoned the teaching of that kind of GEOGRAPHY . . . which alone situates us as participants in the complex affairs of a world in which we stand, fully comprehending the roads already trod, and those we must still travel, if we are to remain standing tall, at the nexus of nations, overcoming the irrelevance of size, understanding the importance of ambition and the magnificent audacity of situating our proud, young nation at the centre of our own remarkable universe.

We have, moreover, abandoned the teaching of that LANGUAGE without which we are all idiots, screaming at each other and at the world, understanding nothing, sharing nothing, building nothing but inescapable prisons of verbal and emotional isolation.

these too we have sacrificed on the altar of DEVELOPMENT, so that we now think of ourselves and our children as irrelevant, casually conceived, casually destroyed, little more than mouths to feed, feet to be shod, bodies to scantily clothe and cast before the great EMPLOYMENT machine.

So, what else should

we see on the screens of our miniature existences, but the merciless flagellation of the child by the parent, the aunt, the elder. We have abandoned our HUMANITY in the glorious pursuit of PROGRESS . . . discarding the very mores that make us whole and wholesome.

So now we rise, to whip that inevitable contempt out of

our children, because there they stand, before us, in their effacing school uniforms purchased with the wages of our prostitution, shamelessly mirroring our barren, uninspired selves.

ANGER AND VIOLENCE MUST BE OUR RESPONSE, for there is little else left. Except perhaps for whipping that recurring selfloathing from ourselves.

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

Countdown to Pitons Cup as Turf Club hosts final Open Day!

hose who attended the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club’s last Open Day in Vieux Fort Sunday past could not have anticipated what awaited. Held every Sunday throughout November, the Open Days gave Saint Lucians the opportunity to learn about the horse-racing project, and to purchase horses and tickets. As a bonus on the last Open Day there were two trial races. As the horses came bolting down the track, the air was filled with excitement as the crowd received a glimpse of what is expected come December 13. Some also participated in placing a fake bet on a real horse, just to get a feel of the process.

Hilaria from Desruisseaux excitedly assured the STAR that, barring serious illness, she will be in attendance on race day. “I think it’s a very good venture,” she said. “It was a good performance and I think

it’s a good project. I bought my ticket already so I’m hoping to be here, by God’s grace. This is bringing the country forward, it’s very good.”

Local contractor Hedrige Medouze worked as a grader operator on the racetrack.

He took obvious pride in the finished product. He said: “I like the vibe, you know.

I’m there on the 13th and I’m all set to bet my money on a jockey.”

Also in attendance was Prime Minister Allen Chastanet.

He said it was great to see the track up and running. More importantly, he said, it was great to see the numbers coming out for the trial run.

“I’m very excited to see the development and the progress that we’re making,” he added.

“I’m just waiting for December 13. I think that’s going to be tremendously exciting for Saint Lucia, and I think that Saint Lucia is going to be announcing

Off they go! Horses compete in a trial race at the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club last Sunday.

in a big way its entry into this fabulous sport.”

Director of the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club, Eden Harrington,

told the STAR it was great to see people welcoming the club as part of their community.

“This club isn’t going anywhere.

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It has a long-term vision to be positive, not just for the people of Vieux Fort, but for all of Saint Lucia. Today was a chance to

trial many of the components that we’re working on here, as well as some of the systems that are going to be in place come race day.”

He was unable to say how many of the 40 horses have already been purchased. But he revealed that come National Day, Saint Lucians will be owners in “three or four of the races”.

Also on hand was Ms. Diane Felicien, consultant to the National Volunteer programme. She advised that on the December 13 race day there will be some 200 volunteers working during the event, in areas including the VIP section and public entry. She said it was a delight to be working alongside the RSLTC, and she and her fellow volunteers are looking forward to the successful hosting of the event.

---JSA

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november 30, 2019

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NOTHING TO PAY TIL MARCH 2020

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

PM: Relocation of Magistrates Court Not the Answer to Bomb Scares!

Joshua St. Aimee

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relocation of the Magistrates Court on Coral Street is currently not on the table. That was the word from Prime Minister Allen Chastanet on Tuesday, as he made his way to the day’s House of Assembly sitting. On Monday, parents and teachers from Ave Maria Girls’ Infant School in Castries called for the urgent need to relocate the court. Their grievance is that in the past six weeks, three bomb scares have led to the evacuation of the school, resulting in dire consequences.

Last Thursday, while most of the nation was preoccupied with the fire at the historic Adjodha building, the school faced its own challenge: a bomb scare at the learning institution and at the nearby court. Teachers and students followed evacuation procedures and headed to the Marchand field. During this exercise a number of students suffered trauma and had to be transported to Victoria Hospital. Prior to this incident, there was another bomb scare on October 17 at the court.

Ave Maria’s Parent Teacher Association is adamant that the circumstances are unacceptable, and demanded that the troubling situation be dealt with. On Monday, teachers, parents and

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students staged a walk from the school to the Ministry of Education’s office at the Francis Compton Building. They were greeted by over ten police officers at the door. After brief negotiations, three school personnel were eventually allowed in and an appointment with ministry officials was scheduled.

Said an emotional PTA vice president Ms. Sylvriana Preville-Howell: “This is not something we can accept at this moment.

You have bomb scares twice a week and you have teachers having to run to the Marchand field. How is that supposed to help our children learn at school when they’re not in class but instead running for cover?”

Aaron Alexander, an irate parent, described as “wicked” those responsible for the threats. He had offered this advice to the government: “This courthouse in the centre of town must be removed; that’s not negotiable!

It has to come out because that’s a hazard.

This courthouse has to be isolated or located in a place where there are not many other buildings. The children are affected so greatly. I mean, children reached hospital.

Let’s have a heart in this country!”

Bus drivers from Rock Hall/Pavee Minibus Association soon added their voice to the outcry. When the court was opened on Coral Street, the bus stand was moved from there to Chisel Street. The Association’s PR officer claimed commuters, the younger ones in particular, were in consequence negatively affected. They had trouble finding the bus stand. Besides, he said, when it rains the stand floods, inconveniencing travellers. He sympathized with the Ave Maria students and called on the authorities to return the bus stand to its original address on Coral Street.

“Not right now,” said the prime minister,

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A protesting group of parents, teachers and students from Ave Maria Girls’ Infant School outside the Ministry of Education this week.

when asked by this reporter if government was considering the relocation of the court.

What is of greater importance, he said, are the protocols, whether or not they were adhered to. The prime minister said that he is satisfied that they were followed, but there were other considerations.

First, he questioned why the young students were evacuated to Marchand. He said he had asked the Ministry of Education to look into this. Secondly,

and with reference to ten kids who were reportedly taken to hospital, he said it had not yet been established what exactly was the protocol process for very young kids and whether in this case it had been followed.

The prime minister expressed concern that moving the court would set a precedent, and in any case would have no impact on the core problem— the bomb threats. He promised government was putting in

place the mechanisms by which to apprehend the offenders.

“Bomb threats have not been restricted just to courthouses,” the prime minister noted, “so do you keep moving people around, their homes and businesses, all dependent on the threats?”

He reminded that someone had recently been charged in relation to bomb threats.

Besides, he said, “an additional 300 CCTV cameras will soon be installed.”

Sen. Hon. Mary Isaac participates in LAC Global Fund Board Meeting

aint Lucia’s Minister for Health and Wellness and Board Member for the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Constituency of the Global Fund Board, Senator, the Honorable Mary Isaac, recently attended the 42nd Board Meeting of the Global Fund Board in Geneva, Switzerland from November 14 to 15, 2019. On behalf of Latin America and the Caribbean, she thanked the Executive Director for his second annual report to the Board and also congratulated him and all partners on a successful replenishment exercise.

In his report, the Executive Director stated that currently “we make better progress on reducing mortality than on reducing incidence”. The Honorable Senator, on behalf of LAC, supported this view and emphasized, “Saving lives is essential, but to end the epidemics, and thus save countless

future lives, we must scale up effective prevention.” The LAC Constituency encouraged the Global Fund Secretariat to take this into consideration as they prepare to allocate resources to countries that are expected to deliver results with reduced funding while their governments continue to fill the gap in funding to prevent resurgence.

The LAC Constituency further highlighted the need to find innovative approaches and create innovative Global Fund allocation mechanisms specific for countries “ending the epidemic”.

The thrust to enhance efficiency and effectiveness was welcomed.

Given the successful replenishment, the LAC

Constituency looked forward to delivering results with those funds and underscored the need to protect components that experienced large reductions.

Also, given the large number of reduced components currently foreseen, even within the higher scenario, qualitative adjustments will be critical to ensure that reductions are not too sudden or too steep. Further, those adjustments should include regional, contextual factors to capture the potential risk of resurgence as experienced with other disease elimination as well as considerations for sustainability and transition.

The LAC Constituency believes that the Global Fund should support countries

to strengthen collaborative approaches by Ministries of Health and Finance to identify and exploit synergies for cross-sectoral financing and to direct domestic resources to institutionalize Civil Society Organisations’ (CSO’s) efforts under national programmes.

There was acknowledgement of the successful implementation of the Venezuela Grant and the monitoring support provided by CSOs. The LAC Constituency appreciated the award of a second grant and the decision regarding Venezuela’s eligibility for a Malaria Grant from 2020.

There was a call for all partners to support and fund the master plan.

THE STAR

november 30, 2019

LOCAL 09

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ECADE: ‘Draconian’ buggery and indecency laws soon to be challenged in court!

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n October 31, the Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality (ECADE) announced its intention to challenge the buggery and indecency laws in Barbados, St. Kitts-Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada and Saint Lucia. The group says the laws contribute to stigmatisation, and legitimize hate speech, discrimination and violence—and it is their intention to file court papers before the end of 2019.

A well-known Saint Lucian businessman told the STAR that he welcomes any legal challenge that seeks to ensure fundamental human rights are protected.

Asked about the local attitude towards the community, he said: "I'm openly gay. However, society has a way of over time becoming more accepting of certain things.

In no way does it mean that things are great now or the best it can be."

He added that the environment when he was a teenager, compared with now, “is not as bad as it used to be”.

The society, he says, is “more accepting”. However, while the

GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE CUSTOMS & EXCISE DEPARTMENT

ECADE argues that the “archaic” buggery and indecency laws contribute to the stigmatisation of people in the LGBT community.

situation may have improved, said our source, it does not mean that persons who do not have a voice are not facing discrimination and violence.

"I know of at least seven or eight individuals, one of whom was a partner of mine, that was murdered,” he went on. “The type of violence was horrifying.

It wasn't just a gunshot. It was kicking in the person's teeth, tying them to a tree, stabbings of various sorts. When you look at any crime that is hate-based, they all have the same storyline."

The business owner said ECADE is taking a stand “to ensure that people have the fundamental right to live their own life freely”.

On Tuesday, External Affairs Minister Sarah Flood-Beaubrun also reacted to ECADE's decision.

She said the laws are in place and, as far as she is aware, government has no plans to review the Criminal Code in that regard. The minister reserved further comment until the legal challenge is actually filed.

----JSA

NOTICE NO. 11 OF 2019 PROCEDURE FOR CLEARANCE OF CHRISTMAS BARREL ON 2019/2020 The Customs and Excise Department would like to inform the Public that with immediate effect persons coming to clear Barrels for the Christmas Season must comply with the following provisions:

1. Persons must present a valid ID (National ID, Passport, Driver’s License) to the interviewing Customs Officer along with documents for their Barrel.

2. If clearing on behalf of someone else, persons must present their valid ID, Letter of Authorization from the owner along with owner’s ID. 3. Customs Brokers also must present Letters of Authorization from the owner along with owner’s ID. The Public is also informed that Barrels will not be delivered if these guidelines are not met.

Your cooperation and understanding is solicited in that regard.

Anita Montoute (Mrs.) Comptroller of Customs (Ag.) November 25, 2019

10 LOCAL

november 30, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Cannabis Commission holds first public meeting!

S

aint Lucia’s Cannabis Commission on Tuesday hosted the first of six public consultation meetings at the Castries City Hall. Formed in August, the commission is tasked with submitting by the end of the year a report to the government that will provide advice on a legislative and regulatory framework for cannabis. If the number of attendees at Tuesday’s event was any barometer, then it was on a discouraging note that the public consultation kicked off.

Only about 20 individuals cared enough to show up.

Their views, questions and concerns were directed to the head table, where sat commission chairman Michael Gordon QC, Dr. Stephen King, Andre de Caires, Paul Francis and Joel Henry. One member of the audience was concerned about protecting farmers who he confessed had for years been growing marijuana. Michael Gordon offered an opinion: “I think it would be nothing less than tragic if the regulatory framework did not acknowledge and protect small farmers and the present producers of marijuana.” He neglected to mention it was still illegal to cultivate marijuana.

Cannabis Movement Chairman Andre de Caires chimed

TH E

in: “The Rastafarian community, most of all, is the one that took all the risks, was discriminated against in the workplace, brutalized, unfairly jailed and sometimes murdered. We want to see reparatory justice being administered to this community in particular, so they would be first in line to get licenses to grow and sell.”

Dr. Stephen King said: “Very often new fads arrive and everybody says moringa will cure everything, cannabis will cure everything. Cannabis definitely has medical use but it is not the cure all.” If and when the island adopts a regulatory regime, King advised that a massive health education programme be adopted and an age restriction decided.

Another audience member asked if there was any assurance that the commission’s final report, whenever submitted, would cause government to make the necessary changes.

To his obvious disappointment, he was informed that there was no way to guarantee all of the recommendations submitted will be accepted.

Dr. King added: “These elected officials, you know what they respond to? It’s ti-kwavotes. So, if the general public wants something and we the

4

th

Left to right: Andre de Caires, Dr. Stephen King and Michael Gordon QC at Tuesday’s town hall meeting.

commission articulate clearly what the public wants, as well as what the science and the evidence shows, I think we’ll have a much better argument.”

Aaron Alexander the chairman of The Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari, said he was hopeful the government will act on the recommendations made.

He recalled that politicians had “ganged up against the peoples' wishes” and shelved the Suzie d’Auvergne report on Constitutional reform.

The STAR later spoke with Chairman Michael Gordon.

The audience sparsity had not escaped him. “I think the meeting started slowly but it got more

animated. We need to publicize the next town hall meeting more widely,” he said. Andre de Caires echoed his sentiments. He said there hadn’t been sufficient media publicity.

Nonetheless, de Caires welcomed the input from those who attended. “There were very valuable contributions. 100% of the people said cannabis should be legalised,” he said. “Going forward I would like to see a little more advertising of these meetings so we get over this hump, get the report in, and then it’s up to the politicians.”

More meetings are scheduled for next month.

Bar Association elects new President

President Renee St. Rose (pictured) replaces Mary Juliana Charles at the association's helm.

T

his week the Bar Association of Saint Lucia welcomed new leadership with the installation of the Bar Council headed by Ms. Renne T. St. Rose as president. Ms. St. Rose is a Partner at Fosters and has maintained an active civil and commercial litigation practice at the Saint Lucian Bar for 17 years.

She has been an active member of the Bar Council for the last 10 years and has served on several public boards and committees in Saint Lucia including the Public Service Commission and the Saint Lucia Legal Aid Authority.

The association has also elected new members of its Bar ---Joshua St. Aimee Council. The other members

of the Bar Council are: Vice President - Ms. Diana M. Thomas of Deterville, Thomas & Co. Treasurer - Mr. Deale A. L. Lee of McNamara & Co. Secretary - Mr. Ramon R. Raveneau of Chong & Co. Ordinary Members - Mr. Andie George, former President; Mrs. Mary Juliana Charles, Immediate Past President; Mr. Sahleem Charles, Mr. HenriJacques Mangal, Mrs. Shervon Pierre and Mr. Anwar Brice.

Queen’s Counsel: Mr. Kenneth Monplaisir, QC, Mr. Michael Gordon, QC, Mr. Anthony McNamara QC, Mr. Tyrone Chong, QC, Mr. Peter I Foster, QC and Mr. Dexter Theodore, QC.

ANN UAL

& Fashion Event

Saturday 7th December, 6pm Grand Pavilion, The Ramp on Rodney Bay

SEXY MODELS ROCK THE RUNWAY call for tickets 452-5111 / 484-1406

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

LOCAL

www.stluciastar.com

11

SLP Confronts History at Tuesday’s House . . . Not a Pretty Sight! knowing the government has a tendency sometimes . . . that in order to kill a rat, they burn a fter nearly two years house.” covering House goings

From my seat in the press on I can safely say I box I wondered whether Pierre have come to expect the most realized how funny was his unexpected developments. Take, last line. Could he possibly for example, the opposition’s have referred to a fellow MP reaction to the government’s as a rat? And by “house” did proposed amendment to the he mean a regular home or Millennium Heights Medical did he slyly refer to the House Complex Act, No. 1 of 2015. As of Assembly? As I say, one is Prime Minister Allen Chastanet never certain when to take at explained it: “The Act provides face value statements made for the establishment of a during our House debates. (As I board which is responsible for write a week later, the William the overall management and Peter Boulevard fire comes to administration of the medical mind; did the fire result from complex, including employment an electrical problem or was it of staff. Consequently, any caused by an arsonist rat?) person seeking employment at

“I wanted to find out what the medical complex would no really was there and I found out longer make that application a few things,” Pierre went on. through the Public Service of “I found out that a civil servant Saint Lucia but through the cannot be transferred from administrative apparatus of the government service to the the medical complex, and be private sector. They have to be subject to the conditions of seconded. A civil servant, I’ll say employment therein.” it again, cannot be transferred

Additionally: “There from the civil service to the may also be instances where private sector. They have to be personnel may have to be seconded. That’s the first thing I retained or transitioned from found out.” the public service to take up

Never mind the earlier duty at the medical complex. explanation by the prime Provision was also made for minister, Pierre seemed hellthe transfer or secondment of a bent on digging himself a public officer to the service of hole. “I ask the question: Is it the board and the preservation because the hospital is going to of that officer’s pension rights.” be privatized?

However: “A transfer under "That was the first the Pensions Act, Cap. 15.26 question. The second question I does not appear to encompass want to ask, Mr. Speaker: What a movement such as that will happen to the ward maids envisaged in the Millennium and the porters and the people Heights Medical Complex who are not establishment Act. Additionally, the Act only workers? My information makes general reference to tells me that non-established who has the power to second workers cannot be seconded or a public officer to the service transferred.” of the Board of the Millennium

He had a third concern: “I Heights Medical Complex. In want to ask the question: What order to cure the inconsistency is the state of the transitioning and ambiguity which arise of the hospital? Because I know from the aforementioned, the for a fact that this government Bill therefore seeks to amend has employed an Indian the Act by, firstly, deleting any consultancy firm. They have reference to the transfer of a awarded the contract to a firm public officer to the Millennium in India to provide consultancy Heights Medical Complex and services. And I know that to only make reference to the local people had already secondment of a public officer.” been contracted to deal with

No surprise that the transitioning of Victoria Hospital. opposition didn’t quite see eye Was that wrong? Was the to eye with the prime minister transition process not correct? on the matter before the House. Led by Dr. Stephen King. But The MP for Castries East, Philip this government is contracting J. Pierre, was first to voice his another set of people.” He displeasure: “Mr. Speaker, when seemed to fill his lungs before I got the order paper and a copy bellowing: “Foreigners! Another of the amendment on Thursday set of foreigners!” or Friday, it looked very simple

Pierre seemed so preto me. But I had to look deeper occupied that even the to find out what was there, super-tolerant Speaker had

By Dean Nestor

A

Allen Chastanet’s amendment to the Millennium Heights Complex Act confronted no road blocks at Tuesday’s debate. Not with the opposition (led by Philip J. Pierre, pictured) choking on its own history with the original bill.

to intervene: “Leader of the Opposition, don’t take this debate beyond what it ought to be this morning. I am asking you to just note what we are debating.” This to an MP with a quarter century’s worth of House debates under his belt!

Somewhat sheepishly the Castries East MP thanked the Speaker for keeping him on track: “I note your guidance and I will follow.” But then he proceeded to repeat himself, insisting that the amendment to the Act indicated that the OKEU was about to be privatized.

Dennery North MP Shawn Edward followed his party leader's line: “Mr. Speaker, I suspect one of my worst fears is being realized in the parliament this morning and, notwithstanding your guidance to the Leader of the Opposition, I want to state that it is very difficult to discuss the proposed amendment to the legislation without looking at the OKEU hospital in its totality. Mr. Speaker, like the Leader of the Opposition, I believe the proposed amendment to the legislation is paving the way for the government to give the OKEU to foreign interests for management.”

The MP for Castries Central and a former health minister, Sarah Flood-Beaubrun, said this in response: “Mr Speaker, I do not understand the opposition’s problem with consultancies. I don’t understand it. We bring in consultants for all kinds of projects. What is the problem with hiring consultants to assist us, to work alongside Saint Lucians? It ensures that we benefit from the best practices in healthcare. What’s wrong with that?”

She offered clarification via history: “This is not a new practice in healthcare in Saint

Lucia. In 1997, when we revamped the A&E department, we got consultants to advise us on the best way forward. If I remember correctly, we got personnel from the Howard Medical Center in Miami. They came here, worked alongside us, and that was how we were able to revamp the A&E.”

Her words may have resurrected in Pierre’s mind too many bad memories of an

earlier “Sister Sarah”. He stood on a point of order and, like a friend turned rat, squealed: “Mr. Speaker, you ruled a few minutes ago that I should not stray.“ Then again, perhaps he was simply striking a blow for the laudible idea of fair play.

This was FloodBeaubrun’s cutting retort: “The honorable member was not interrupted when he spoke about consultancy. He spoke as though he had a problem with the government of Saint Lucia finding some specialized persons who are capable, who have run hospitals, world-class hospitals, to help us run the OKEU.”

Trust the Castries Southeast MP Guy Joseph to sugar the bitter lesson. “I have tried to maintain consistency,” he said, his famous Guy smile in plain sight. “When I’m in opposition, I don’t sing a song to get me into government and then, once I’ve gotten there, I sing another tune. That’s what the opposition does.”

Quoting from Hansard, he revisited his contribution to the

2015 Millennium Heights Medical Complex Act debate: “Mr. Speaker, I have concerns about what will happen to the workers and how the transition will be facilitated.

Who is going to be responsible and what is the arrangement?

Because, if the board is fully responsible for the complex, I also need to ask whether the size of the Ministry of Health will be reduced.”

Back in the moment, he said, “These were legitimate concerns back then. There was no plan; they never had a plan. That is why they have never been successful at anything they attempt.”

He saved the best for last. A line from former prime minister Kenny Anthony’s contribution to the earlier mentioned 2015 debate: “Let me say that there’s no argument to sustain the point that you are privatizing the Millennium Heights Complex.

The statutory board mechanism has always been used by governments to express their legal personality!”

As they say, not a man moved. At any rate, not on the opposition side!

12 COMMENT

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

Who Will Lift Us Out Of Our Predicament?

By Alvin B. Charles

T

here are few things the two main political parties agree on. By now it’s common knowledge they do not see eye to eye on the immediate future of St. Jude reconstruction. The UWP views the situation as a dumpster fire fanned by the ineptitude and inaction of the previous administration. The SLP insists on turning out the light on the fact that it did not deliver on its repeated promise of “a state of the art hospital before the end of 2015”— while admonishing the current administration for not completing what was left undone in 2016. Both sides accuse the other of gross incompetence and selfinterest bordering on corruption.

The two parties seem never on the same page when it comes to the performance of the tourism industry. The incumbents—irrespective of political party—invariably tout the tourism figures of the day as the best ever. The same individuals, when in opposition, dismiss similar claims by the government as misleading.

Earlier this year the opposition’s spokesman for Commerce, Investment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, not to mention recently minted deputy leader of the SLP, not so subtly implied the tourism minister Dominic Fedee had denied Saint Lucians “a truthful appraisal of the tourism industry”. He averred that the arrivals data presented was “very revealing and exposes the incompetence of the minister in ways he is not aware of”.

In March of 2015, then opposition senator Fedee dismissed claims by the day’s SLP administration of “substantial gains within virtually all the categories within the sector.”

Perhaps their only area of agreement is the island’s current crime situation. In an address to the nation on May 30, 2010 then Prime Minister

Our politicians know the cause and answers to most of our problems but dare not state the obvious.

Left to right: Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, former prime minister Kenny Anthony and House opposition leader Philip J. Pierre.

Stephenson King said: “Too many of us appear to have lost all respect for human life, including our own and the lives of our families. We turn on each other like rabid wolves at the slightest disagreement . . . such senseless violence, such anger and manifested selfhate.”

In his New Year’s address in January 2015, a hapless Kenny Anthony typically passed the buck to a higher power.

“As a nation,” said the prime minister, “we must pray for a more harmonious, tranquil and peaceful 2015.” In an earlier time he had pleaded directly to the criminals in his constituency to “please let the people have some peace for Christmas!”

During a March 26, 2019 House sitting Prime Minister Allen Chastanet appealed for bipartisan support and participation in the government’s efforts at ameliorating violent crime in the country. He referenced a Cedars mini-mart owner who was shot dead at his place of business only one week earlier. Compounding the problem are the potential effects of local crime on the mainstay of our economy: tourism.

In a 2007 Joint Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Latin America and the Caribbean Region of the World Bank, it

was stated: “Through multiple channels, crime and violence threaten the welfare of Caribbean citizens. Beyond the direct effect on victims, crime and violence inflict widespread costs, generating a climate of fear for all citizens and diminishing economic growth.

Crime and violence present one of the paramount challenges to development in the Caribbean.”

The report cited in part the 2006 New Year’s address by Jamaican prime minister P.J. Patterson: “Without a doubt, the high level of violent crime remains our most troubling and pressing problem.”

Also referenced was a statement by the president of the Trinidad and Tobago parliament, George Maxwell Richards, in which he bemoaned the fact that the country was in crisis due to the escalating crime rate.

Then there was the 2018 report by the Intelligence Unit of The Economist that noted: “Violent crime remains an urgent public and political concern throughout the English-speaking Caribbean.”

The report went on to cite the 2016 murder rates of some Caribbean territories: Antigua, 20 murders, a rate of 25 per 100,000 (an increase of 150% from the previous year); Barbados, 31 murders, a rate of 11 per 100,000 (an increase of 48% from the previous year);

and Saint Lucia which recorded 60 murders, a rate of 34 per 100,000 (a 100% increase from the previous year).

Politicians on both sides of the political divide agree on the main causes of crime: poverty, poor education, parental neglect, the drug trade, unemployment among them. But one significant cause remains unmentioned—the politicians themselves!

There are the perennial administrative shortcomings of a lack of sustainable job creation; the persistent neglect of the police force, human services and other public institutions; an apparent inability to tailor our education system to fit our specific societal and economic needs.

Beyond these obvious failings there are more subtle influences of the political class which have gone largely ignored, primarily because we have been conditioned to view them as inconsequential . . . normal. In more evolved societies politicians are received as what they are: policy makers and wannabe policy makers. It is understood they are not above bending the truth to promote favourable narratives for the purposes of elections. When their machinations go beyond the mere politicking of dissembling and half-truths, they are judged at the ballot box. If they run afoul of the law they are forced

to resign or face prosecution.

These societies have movie and TV stars, star athletes, singers and highly respected war heroes. These role models are particularly influential among the young. They have the ability to shape their views, ideals and actions.

In our own one-horse town, however, our options are limited to calypsonians and politicians. The first mentioned grab our attention for a period of about six weeks every year and our interaction with them is limited to that of spectators at shows and singing along when their music comes over the radio.

On the other hand, politicians are daily in our faces. They are written about in the newspapers; their actions and inactions are the subjects of televised news items; they hold press conferences and deliver addresses to the nation. At election time they preach to us from their decorated platforms, visit our neighbourhoods and even our living rooms personally and via TV.

Perhaps inadvertently, they are our children’s role models, even when they make headlines for reasons that would embarrass drunken sailors. Their public behaviour, for example, flagrantly flouting basic principles of decorum and ethics, a long time ago became the norm. In short,

ours has become, under the influence of unconscionable politicians and those who support them, tacitly and otherwise—including fear of victimization—a society that has gradually morphed from an almost childlike innocence to a community of connivers and parasites. And the price will be paid. Indeed, we’ve been paying a long time, whether or not we know it!

In 1979, five months after gaining nationhood, a William Peter Boulevard UWP rally was unforgettably pelted with rocks and human excrement by over-excited supporters of the newly elected-to-office SLP. Are you still surprised that we are not a united people? Were you surprised when an employee of a pizza parlour was shot and left to die in a Vieux Fort street while ghoulish bystanders took photos and recorded videos? Were you surprised when a Laborie mother of three was brutally murdered and buried in a shallow grave a stone’s throw from her home? Are you surprised when arguments between friends are settled by gun or cutlass? If we continue to delude ourselves; if the fault is always someone else’s— the other political party’s, the other man or woman’s, never ourselves—then count on, the consequences will be dire. For whatever is left of our nation!

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

www.stluciastar.com

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COMMENT

www.stluciastar.com

NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

When Lawyers Play Jud I

n a hardly surprising online response to a recent article in the STAR that was my personal reaction to a piece by the faceless Stephen Lester Prescott, Anthony Astaphan (as famous here as in his native Dominica and requires no further introduction!) would have Red Zoners believe: “Following the answer and question session the [Ramsahoye] Commission adjourned. They made no adverse finding or misconduct or otherwise against Dr. Anthony.” He then suggested I’ve been making related “insidious insinuations or allegations against Dr. Anthony.”

Moi? I prefer to let readers decide for themselves which of us is to be trusted; me or the Penguin doppelganger!

According to the report that Astaphan cited, the Kenny Anthony government committed the people of Saint Lucia to pay the unpaid debts of a company named Frenwell Limited, incorporated here on 14 January 2000—barely three years after the Anthony government took office. “Frenwell Limited was not shown to have assets,” the report points out, “and it did default.”

Additionally: “Our inquiry into the formation of Frenwell Limited shows that it was allegedly formed at the request of the Government of Saint Lucia as a device to deal with payment of the sum of US$12,750,000—which was the total amount the Government of Saint Lucia agreed to guarantee under the development and concession agreement of 17 December 1997. The Deed of Guarantee and Indemnity executed in favor of the Royal Merchant Bank on the 13 February 1998 did not mention the provision in

the development concession of 17 December 1997, that in the event the Government of Saint Lucia was called upon to pay under its guarantee it was entitled to an equity of corresponding value in Pigeon Point Hotel Limited. The Royal Merchant Bank was not a party to the development and concession agreement. Its recourse for payment of the sum of U$12,750,000 was to the Deed of Guarantee and Indemnity and the Put Option Agreements which were all executed by Dr. Kenny Anthony on behalf of the Government of Saint Lucia.” Over and over the commission asked the necessity to create the Frenwell “device”—to small avail.

Again from the Report: “The guarantees in the development and concession agreement, the Deed of Guarantee and Indemnity and the Put Option agreements, were never put before Parliament for approval by resolution”—despite that Section 14 of the Finance (Administration) Act, Chapter 15.05 states: A guarantee involving any financial liability is not binding upon Government unless that guarantee is given in accordance with an enactment or unless approved by resolution in Parliament.

Consequently: “There was no direct authority for money payable under the guarantees of any of them [the Deed and Indemnity and the Put Option agreements] to be taken out of the Consolidated Fund, as is contemplated by Sections 41 and 42 of the Finance (Administration) Act.”

Per the Ramsahoye Report: In December 2002 the Government of Saint Lucia wanted to borrow US$41 million from the Royal Merchant Bank,

procedure, was not unlawful.”

Words, words, words!

In 1979 another Saint Lucian prime minister, with blood in his eyes, had viciously fired at his taunting immediate predecessor, now Leader of the Opposition, this unforgettable brickbat: “Words put you where you are today!” In all events the “distinguished gentlemen” who prepared the Ramsahoye Report, its central figure to meet capital expenditure and hired mouthpiece were and to pay debts incurred by morphologically similar: all were Frenwell Limited. “A motion lawyers. And lawyers, as has to enable the money to be been universally acknowledged, borrowed was put before Parliament. It was approved by have a unique way with words.

Lawyers, when they speak, the House of Assembly on the make it near impossible not motion of Dr. Kenny Anthony, the Prime Minister and Minister to recall Humpty Dumpty conversing with Alice. “When of Finance, on 17 December I use a word,” said Humpty in 2002. The motion was passed rather a scornful tone, “it means by the Senate on 20 December 2002 . . . The motion presented just what I choose it to mean— neither more nor less.” Which to Parliament invoked as its left Alice wondering aloud how authority the provisions of he was able to make words Section 39 of the Finance mean so many different things.

(Administration) Act . . . The To which question Humpty reason for invoking Section Dumpty replied: “The question 39 was because a part of the is which is to be master, that’s US$41 million was intended to all.” meet expenditure on capital

So now, let us consider the works which the Government word “irregular.” It can mean of Saint Lucia had undertaken, “contrary to a rule, accepted but it was also intended that order, or general practice.” It the other part should be used can mean, “not conforming to to refinance Government’s legality or moral law.” And it obligations in respect of the can mean, “not straight," or former Hyatt Hotel." “of uneven beat.” Depending

Notes the report on context, it can also mean pointedly: “The truth was that “constipated.” (If you’re asking the obligations which the yourself, dear reader, how Government of Saint Lucia one word can mean so many intended to meet were the different things, it’s obvious, like loan monies which Frenwell Alice, you never attended law Limited had borrowed and the interest which the Government school.)

In his report Ramsahoye was obliged to pay to the Royal explained that while Kenny Merchant Bank under the Deed Anthony had led the House to of Guarantee and Indemnity and the Put Option agreements. believe he wanted to borrow in order to “refinance the It was presumed that the Government’s obligations to members of the legislature knew that the loan monies were the hotel formerly known as Hyatt . . . the truth was that the used to support Pigeon Point Hotel Limited. We conclude that obligations the Government of Saint Lucia intended to meet the nature of the proceedings, by virtue of which the resolution were the loan monies which Frenwell Limited had borrowed was passed, were irregular— . . . ” If you feel tempted at but since the members of this point to conclude, dear Parliament must have known reader, that the prime minister that the Government was borrowing to satisfy obligations misled the House; or that he misrepresented the truth (for it undertook in connection which surely a price should be with the resort, the payment, although done through irregular paid), please keep in mind that

Recently Kenny Anthony (left) delivered on TV a lecture formed the impression that what the former PM said wa Philip J. Pierre (right), who replaced Anthony as party

that was not for the commission to decide. Not part of its remit!

Moreover, if you should lean toward the “not conforming to legality” definition of irregular, then keep in mind that by not voting against the day’s motion (for whatever reasons), the House effectively made the irregular regular; and possible nonconformance with legality absolutely lawful.

More arresting findings by the Ramsahoye Report,

earlier unknown: “The considerable amount of documentation done in connection with the borrowing of money from the Royal Merchant Bank in connection with the resort project was done in Trinidad & Tobago with Trinidad & Tobago lawyers. The documents provided harsh conditions of borrowing by way of interest and other charges.

They were aimed at protecting the lender but did not include provisions for the protection of the borrower [Saint Lucian taxpayers

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

COMMENT 15

www.stluciastar.com

udge, Jury And Politics

a lecture on leadership. Many who caught the telecast M said was especially salted to make an impression on as party leader following the 2016 general elections!

represented by our prime minister].”

Referencing an earlier but related matter, the Report noted: “According to sworn testimony

by Dr. Kenny Anthony in court proceedings connected with the borrowing of money from the Royal Merchant Bank for purposes connected with the hotel resort project, the government took no responsibility for supervising the implementation of the project. It relied on the technical persons hired by the Royal Merchant Bank to supervise the construction of the

hotel.”

There is no need to go into the actual failure of the hotel formerly known as Hyatt. In June 2003 when the receiver sold the hotel and its assets to Butch Stewart for US$40 million, the details were blowing in the wind. At that time the Government of Saint Lucia had no equity in the company and, according to Ramsahoye, “was in no position to question the sale without being called upon to pay under its guarantee

. . . signed by Dr. Anthony.

The net amount paid by the Government toward the debt of Frenwell Limited was completely lost to the people of Saint Lucia.” As for the debt of Frenwell, “this company had no substance save for cumulative preference shares it purchased in the hotel company, which lost its assets in the sale, thereby rendering it useless to pursue any remedy against the company if it was possible to do so.”

So now, back to Astaphan.

I will leave it to others to judge the validity of his recently published online statement: “The Commission of Inquiry of distinguished members submitted a written report to the Government of Saint Lucia. They made no adverse finding or misconduct or otherwise against Dr. Anthony.

Despite this, Rick Wayne, like Don Quixote, keeps charging downhill making insidious insinuations or allegations against Dr. Anthony.” He cites, then dismisses as “false” and “fake news,” my claim in a recent article that “my source recalled several Frenwellrelated questions put to the former PM by the Ramsahoye Commission remain unanswered.” Astaphan, like Trump, considers all unflattering references to himself or to his client “fake news.”

As earlier promised, it’s up to you, dear reader and fellow taxpayer, to determine for yourself whom to believe: Kenny Anthony’s wellcompensated mouthpiece and declared closest friend, or this journalist whose job it is to report immediately verifiable truth, regardless of where the chips may fall. It is sheer asininity to presume I would attempt to cross swords with Astaphan—or any other lawyer, real or soi disant—over matters related to the law. Not that I believe there is on this planet more than one lawyer dumb enough to consider himself infallible.

Indeed, Astaphan had reason to apologize to the Ramsahoye Commission having taken one of his characteristic leaps of

faith on a show hosted by a fellow red robin. But about that, more later. What immediately follows are some of the recorded conclusions of the Ramsahoye Inquiry, in which Astaphan played his regular role, again at the expense of local taxpayers.

1) “We did not discern any attempt to protect the Government and people from this loss.”

2) “The Prime Minister and Minister of Finance had responsibility for this transaction whereby the money was lost.”

3) “There was no supervision or control by the Government over the construction or equipping and management of the resort.”

4) “The project as it was conceived failed, without the Government and people being protected from the total loss of US$14,592,350 and the costs associated with the repayment of the debts owed by Frenwell Limited.”

5) “We consider it would have been prudent for the Government of the day to ensure that it had an equity in the hotel simultaneously with its being called upon to pay any of the hotel company’s debts in accordance with the development and concession agreement.”

6) “There is no evidence that high level public servants who were engaged in the offices of Dr. Kenny Anthony were involved in the decisionmaking process concerning this transaction."

7) “There is no oral or documentary evidence establishing a contractual relationship between Frenwell and the Government of Saint Lucia. But even if there was, it would be useless to pursue a remedy against Frenwell . . . a company that had no value at the time Frenwell’s debts were paid by the Government of Saint Lucia.”

8) “We consider that the loss which the Government and people of Saint Lucia suffered in this matter was the result of maladministration.

We 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.”

9) “We consider that had the transactions involved public servants at the level of heads of departments . . . there would have been measures undertaken to ensure the Government did not undertake any liability beyond what was agreed in the agreement of 17 December 1997.”

10) “We consider that where the Government guarantees the debts of other persons the resolution under the Finance (Administration) Act should give details of the liability so that both the members of Parliament and the national community should understand the liability which was undertaken by the taxpayer in order that the demands of accountability and transparency required by good governance be satisfied.”

Also, there is this: “The commission endeavored, without success, to get information from Mr. Gavin French—who was the moving figure behind the establishment of the resort but without any success whatsoever. Mr. French gave no statement and supplied no information to the Commission but we feel he was in a position to say why the project failed in the hands of the hotel company and how it came about that the Government and people of Saint Lucia were left to carry the burden of considerable uncompensated financial loss.”

So now, who has been insinuating what? Who is being insidious? As for that earlier recalled apology to the Ramsahoye Commission—I offer more proof that what Astaphan writes or says should not always be taken without a cup of salt: Minutes after the Ramsahoye Commission adjourned on 2 March 2009, the Dominican S.C. was a guest on a radio program hosted by Claudius Francis, conceivably to offer reassurance to the Red Zone. “In twenty minutes this morning,” he crowed, “the

Commission made it very clear that to date there is nothing on the ministers resembling either civil or criminal responsibility or liability.”

Additionally: “Most tellingly Sir Fenton Ramsahoye made the telling statement this morning that he had read the Rochamel documents filed in the high court and he came to the conclusion there was absolutely nothing wrong with the government.

In fact, the government should have pursued, or was right in pursuing, the guarantees which were signed by Dr. Anthony, a significant vindication, and that the only issue may be calculation of figures which had nothing to do with Dr. Kenny Davis Anthony.

So in twenty minutes the political intent, whatever it was, on the part of this [Stephenson King] government, appears so far to have fallen flat.”

Several hours later, at the resumption of the inquiry, this is what came out of the songbird’s bent beak: “On the last occasion I was the one who said to the media you had read the court documents and I made a mistake . . . After having checked the transcript I realized it was not what you [Commissioner Ramsahoye] had said. I am very sorry for having misled the public . . . ” Misled, you understand.

Which is synonymous with “led astray.”

From the onset it had been made quite clear Dr. Anthony was not on trial. He was represented, Sir Ramsahoye explained, “because he was prime minister at the time and therefore responsible for the overall functionality of government.”

Also stated at the opening bell by the chairman of the commission: “It is not part of this tribunal’s remit, indeed it could not be, to arrive at any determinations of guilt in respect of civil wrongs or criminal wrongs.” If there were to be any legal action after the commission had reported, such action would have to be taken by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Then again, in Saint Lucia no DPP has ever found cause to lay charges following a commission of inquiry!

The preceding was first published in January 2018

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

St Lucia Taekwondo Student Athletes IMF Reps visit perform well in Regional Competition OECS Commission

Taekwondo students with their proud coach after a successful outing in Trinidad and Tobago.

T

he St Lucia Taekwondo Federation took part in the first ever Caribbean School/ Club Taekwondo competition, which was held at the Lions Culture Club, Fitzgerald Street, Woodbrook, Trinidad and Tobago on November 9, 2019.

Teams from the Cayman Islands, Martinique, St Vincent, and Trinidad and Tobago were also represented on the day.

Saint Lucia fielded five athletes: Danielle Dossery, Iva Peter and Mahkiva Flavius competed in the poomsae divisions, while Zhane Jemmott and Macquann Flavius took part in the sparring division.

In the girls' poomsae division, Mahkiva Flavius performed exceptionally, earning a gold medal; while Iva Peter and Danielle Dossery each received bronze medals for their efforts.

The boys did just as well. In the 6-7 years sparring division Zhane Jemmott received a bronze medal while in the 7-8 years sparring division, Macquann Flavius achieved gold.

In an action-packed semi-final Zhane squared off against Josiah Edward from Trinidad. He won the first round 4-2 but eventually lost 4-6. His opponent, Edward, went on to capture the gold.

In the final of the boys 7-8 sparring, Macquann Flavius squared off against Dominic Pantin from Trinidad, and dominated the contest. It ended with a score of 8-0 in Flavius’ favour.

The St Lucia Taekwondo Federation is proud of the way its athletes performed. It particularly acknowledges Iva Peter, a last minute recruit from the Vieux Fort Secondary School taekwondo programme.

The Federation appreciates the support the St Lucia Olympic Committee Inc for providing its young Taekwondo students the opportunity for increased exposure to regional competition.

T

wo representatives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Division Chief, Caribbean Western Hemisphere Department, Sonia Muñoz; and Senior Economist and Mission Chief, Grenada Western Hemisphere Department, Bodgan Lissovolik, paid a courtesy visit to the Director General of the OECS, H.E. Dr. Didacus Jules on November 18, 2019.

In the main, the Director General of the OECS apprised the representatives from the IMF of multiple innovative actions currently being undertaken by the Organisation to strengthen and accelerate economic growth at the regional level through the mobilisation of alternative financial resources.

Dr. Jules also expressed his longterm views on the financing of the OECS integration effort. “We are currently changing the dynamic of our approach to mobilise resources. We are determined to strategically utilise our assets in a way that changes our economic DNA, so that we do things in a more sustainable, cost effective and efficient manner,” Dr. Jules said.

Hence, the meeting focused on 10 matters, inter alia: • the mobilisation of financial resources to support economies of the OECS Member States which have been impacted by hurricane Maria; • the work accomplished by the financial and economic development bodies of the Organisation, and the collaboration between

Director General of the OECS Dr. Didacus Jules (left) and Division Chief, Caribbean Western Hemisphere Department, Sonia Muñoz.

the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and the Economic Affairs Council of the OECS; • the harmonisation of Citizenship By Investment (CBI) Programmes of multiple OECS Member States in order to converge towards a regional approach; • the creation of an emergency resilience fund in the event of natural disasters; • the mobilisation of local financial resources and the banking union; • the development of a diasporic investment regime at the regional level which aims to facilitate financial flows coming from the OECS nationals who reside overseas, and which contribute to the economic development of their home countries; • the revitalisation of the

OECS stock market; • the shareholding model of LIAT; • fiscal policies and tax incentives to foster intra-regional trade; and • the development of digital currencies in the OECS space.

In closing, the Director General of the OECS highlighted the importance of a closer collaboration between both entities, especially in light of the publication of reports which provide an analysis of the economies of the OECS Member States.

Dr. Jules also indicated that these matters will be further discussed with the Heads of Governments of the OECS and ratified at the next OECS Authority meeting which should be held by the first quarter of 2020.

Students, teachers and principals!

Emmanuella & Friends are coming to St.Lucia!

Would you like them to visit your school?

If so then visit our website at www.thewavestlucia.com Fill out the simple entry form and tell us why your school should be chosen.

Promotion ends December 3rd, 2019 Don’t miss Emmanuella and Friends

LIVE

on Sunday, December 15th at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

COMMENT

www.stluciastar.com

17

Due Diligence Begins at Home . . . like Charity!

By Rick Wayne

S

oon after the Allan Louisy administration replaced that of John Compton I sought the counsel of the almost attorney-general-forlife and a long-time friend, Parry Husbands. I needed to know the options of a citizen concerned about the outcome of a coroner’s inquest. Parry advised that if said citizen was in possession of new and compelling evidence it might be possible, with the all-important cooperation of the attorney general of course, to have the suspect inquest reopened. The one I had in mind involved— wait for it!—two trigger-happy cops. The year was 1979!

Parry’s replacement at the AG’s office assured me he shared my concern for the sorry state of the local justice system.

Alas, his discomfort was not nearly so severe as to distract him from his regular activities.

Despite his expressed contrary sentiments, the AG chose to remain faithful to Luke’s “let the dead bury their dead.”

As for my earlier fellow seekers after justice, they too had undergone a sea change once their party was in office.

“De man dead arready; nothing anyone can do will bring him back. Why you want to saddle our government with the sins of its predecessor?” It didn’t help that the casualty of the latest “death by misadventure” had kept himself alive from the proceeds of grass disposal— albeit not the variety usually associated with STEP.

As I say, the long dearly departed Parry Husbands came to mind this week.

And not because of the troublesome relatively recent inquests related to the 201011 fatal police shootings of “twelve citizens deemed to be criminals.” Believe it or not, what returned Parry to life, in my head, at any rate, was the Kenny Anthony government’s Citizenship by Investment project—already signed, sealed and irreversibly delivered, whatever else to the contrary you may have read or heard.

The demons of desperation inspire disastrous notions in the febrile minds of unconscionable men fresh out of options, especially with the silly season upon them!

It seems to me our best brains are less interested in the possible endless consequences of permitting ourselves to be

bought by foreigners with whom we have nothing in common, who quite possibly secretly despise us, if only because we had given them the impression that we had learned no lessons from our slave history.

Unlike our protesting ancestors, millions of whom were forcibly removed from their homelands by armed strangers to be sold to other strangers like farm animals and beasts of burden, we seem not to mind at all that our elected protectors had decided—in our best interest, of course—to pimp our souls out in the names of the notorious twins Progress and Development. (Remember when the official plan was to blow the top off Gros Piton to accommodate the installation of cable cars and a faux Amerindian village—the twisted tourism-related vision of a nutty American entrepreneur? Thank Derek Walcott and, yes, this newspaper, that the idea never went past the “approval in principle” stage.)

When I expressed to him my concerns about the Citizenship by Investment program, an irrationally exuberant connected lawyer acquaintance suggested I peruse the official report on the subject, prepared for the government by former prime minister Vaughan Lewis and Invest Saint Lucia’s McHale Andrew (reportedly with assistance from two or three presumably thinkalike individuals, none nearly as famous as the earlier mentioned dynamic duo). I did as advised and was soon struck by the following: “Like other countries in the region, Saint Lucia has now to earn its way to prosperity and that requires vision, innovative and purposeful policy formulation, and a skillfully executed national agenda.”

Did the quoted words make you blink, dear reader?

It certainly stopped me. After all, was there ever a way to prosperity that did not demand vision, innovation, purposeful policies and a skillfully executed agenda? According to LewisAndrew & Company, Saint Lucia’s two most important attributes are “its natural beauty and the warmth and friendliness of its people.”

By their presumed educated reckoning, the two attributes were responsible for the “natural allure that underpins the offerings and promise of this island state.”

Lewis-Andrew & Company assured us via their report that all of our successful enterprises, whether in tourism or in “smart manufacturing” or agroprocessing, “in some manner embrace those two attributes.”

However, the fruits of our allure were not nearly enough to keep the big bad wolf of economic disaster from our manicured front doors. Our survival now depends on more than just our natural beauty, our warmth and our advertised bonhomie, according to Lewis. We needed something that would allow us to make “that transformative dent that is so much needed to spur the country’s growth and development.” We needed to invest in the Global Residence and Citizenship Industry.

As if desperate to honey up the sell, Lewis-Andrew offered the notion that citizenship should no longer be seen as strictly national. Moreover, the majority of rich folk were seeking “a jurisdiction where their wealth is protected, and where it can grow; social and economic stability; security and predictability; a sustainable education system; a clean environment; an open and tolerant society; freedom, rule of law and peace.” For which Saint Lucia was universally famous.

Still quoting from the Lewis-Andrew document: “External research and analyses of wealth intelligence and verification show that some 25 percent of all global citizens are choosing the Caribbean region as their preferred destination.

While this can be attributed to the relative low investment entry levels, as compared to other available programs, this reveals the region’s potential, and one from which Saint Lucia can benefit.”

We arrive finally at the heart of the program: “Due Diligence and Verification of Policies.” When it comes to the global residence and citizenship program, the Lewis report observes, “the process of background and verification of the applicants is an essential part and integral element of the due diligence process. When it comes to global residence and citizenship programs this is of particular importance, for their integrity is key to public support of the program. It is worth noting that the due diligence and background verification is also critical for the overall processing of the application.”

The report takes into

consideration that “at the domestic level, citizens are concerned about diluting the value of their citizenship and passport and loss of free-visa access to countries.” Once again the fly in the ointment was ignorance: “Many fears and concerns stem from lack of knowledge and understanding as to how these programs operate, as well as from the absence of transparency and accountability of the processes involved.”

I couldn’t agree more— with the need for transparency, that is, and accountability— beginning with the question What is the joker’s name that chose Vaughan Lewis for the job of preparing the Citizenship

by Investment Report? It’s a safe bet the culprit was “The Cabinet.” But that leads to another obvious question: Why, when due diligence has been acknowledged as the very heart of the Citizenship by Investment Program, did the current prime minister allow his Cabinet to assign Lewis the all-important job, bearing in mind his history according to the prime minister’s published book At the Rainbow’s Edge?

This is what the book, now accessible on the internet, says about Lewis: As prime minister “his management of the economy was poor by all recognized standards. What is perhaps worse is that Saint Lucia’s reputation in the world was being dragged down along with Vaughan Lewis’s reputation. It is one thing to be, like him, a laughingstock in your own country. But when you are the prime minister and you are ridiculed abroad as well, then you can take the whole nation down with you.”

In a 1997 televised address to the nation, the text of which appears in At the Rainbow’s Edge, the soon to be elected prime minister said: “The United Workers Party has tried to convince us that their party has changed. They have promoted Vaughan Lewis as the change. Time and experience have shown that the UWP has indeed changed since the advent of Vaughan Lewis but it is clearly a change for the worse.

“Never before have we seen such vindictiveness; such narrow-mindedness; such pedigreed arrogance; mauvais langue and maypwis in an election campaign. Many had hoped that the entry of Vaughan Lewis into the political

arena would’ve signaled a higher level of public morality and a higher tenor of political discourse and debate. There were some who thought he would have attempted to clean the rot, cut the patronage and excise corruption. Instead of rising to his historic opportunity, Vaughan Lewis sank to the lowest common intellectual denominator.”

His own brothers and sisters had been brutal in their assessment of Lewis as leader of the United Workers Party. He had managed “the most disorganized campaign in the party’s history.” The supporters of one candidate in the 1997 general elections, according to a published UWP report, “lamented that public perception and the image of the political leader as an alcoholic may have had some serious effect on his demise.”

Ironically, it was not Lewis but the prime minister who sued. A court found Lewis had slandered him during a public rally. In consideration of what Lewis had said, the judge

declared that “the reasonable man would know that Dr. [Kenny] Anthony taking a bribe and fraudulently diverting funds for his personal benefit are serious criminal offences and punishable with imprisonment and which would qualify as corruption and dishonesty.”

Lewis was ordered to pay the prime minister $76,000. But now the same prime minister that had gone out of his way to declare the emperor naked appears hell-bent on convincing us he’s Gucci-clad from top to toe. Obviously the prime minister expects Saint Lucians to embrace as reliable and true the recommendations

by Lewis in his Citizenship by Investment Report. But then what does it tell us, that the prime minister chose Lewis for this all-important assignment?

More on due diligence and Citizenship by Investment Report next week!

The preceding was first published in The STAR of November 7, 2015

Security Minister sets the Record Straight

M

inister for Home Affairs, Justice and National Security Senator the Honorable Hermangild Francis has contested a recent Caribbean News Now online report which ascribes to him a quote that the Minister felt required proper contextualization and explanation.

The story, attributed to Caribbean News Now, indicates that at an executive luncheon of the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce last month, Minister Francis stated that the United States government “has pledged to fund a proposed new border control entity for Saint Lucia”.

Minister Francis this week expressed dismay that the story was published without the writer extending the courtesy of contacting him

for his input.

“I can say that I indicated at the Chamber of Commerce meeting on October 16 that if the Marine Unit is removed from under the auspices of the Royal Saint Lucia Police, where it is right now, and becomes a new entity, then the US may be amenable to providing support to this new entity but in its current form we are no longer receiving support from the US for the Marine Unit.”

Progress has been ongoing toward the establishment of a new border control entity for the island.

However, Minister Francis says as far as the funding for that project is concerned, the Government of Saint Lucia has no agreement in place to receive funds from the United States government.

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www.stluciastar.com

NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

Karen Peter Re-elected President of the Chamber of Commerce GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUICA MININSTRY OF FINANCE CUSTOMS & EXCISE DEPARTMENT

NOTICE NO. 10 OF 2019

SALE OF INTOXICATING LIQUOR Pursuant to the liquor License Act Cap. 13.17 of the Laws of Saint Lucia, persons who offer intoxicating liquor for sale must have the relevant liquor license.

Current holders of licenses must renew such licenses immediately.

Effective December 2nd 2019, The Customs and Excise Department along with the Royal St. Lucia Police Force and City Constabulary will be embarking on a rigorous island wide compliance drive to enforce the provisions of this Act. Persons found selling intoxicating liquor without the relevant license will be prosecuted. Your compliance in this regard is therefore solicited.

For further information please contact the Export Verification Unit, Maher Centre Building, William Peter Boulevard, Castries at telephone No. 468-4800/1432/33 or Customs Department, Chitolie Building, Beanfield, Vieux Fort, at telephone No. 468-4900/10 or the First or Second District Court.

Please be guided accordingly

Anita Montoute (Mrs.) Comptroller of Customs & Excise (Ag)

T

he Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture held its 135th Annual General Meeting on November 27, 2019 at Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort, where Karen Peter, Managing Director of Caribbean Metals Ltd, was re-elected President.

The entire Board of Directors was re-elected en masse by a resolution from the floor, a strong expression of the support and the appreciation for the performance of the Board over the last year.

President Peter used the forum to underscore the responsibility the Chamber carries in the nation, as articulated by Immediate Past President Martin Dorville, noting that it was three fold: " . . . as a pillar of this economy, as a member of civil society, and as a partner in the development of our country. That responsibility is owed first to members, second to the wider business community, and thirdly to the nation. As such, our tripartite responsibility is that of sentinel, trustee and advocate.�

Ms. Peter updated members on the ongoing Strategic Transformation Process of the Chamber, reminding them of the refined Vision: We are the driving force for sustainable business and community prosperity in Saint Lucia; and the Mission: To foster sustainable business growth and development of our members through strong leadership, strategic advocacy and innovative services, while enabling them to positively impact their communities

A

The work of the Chamber over the last year was presented in the Annual Report. Note was made of efforts to continue to revamp internal processes to enable the Chamber to deliver quality and valuable services to members. The Chamber was able to increase the number of programmes and engagements with members and key government agencies as well as increase the participation of members in the activities of the Chamber, which speaks to enhanced interest and renewed vibrancy. President Peter also called on members to become even more active and involved in the work of the Chamber for the benefit of all.

Deputy Director of the Economics Department of the Caribbean Development Bank, Mr. Ian Durant, and Mr. Janai Leonce of the Department of Finance in Saint Lucia presented perspectives and participated in an informative and engaging panel discussion on The St. Lucia Economy 2020 and Beyond, which provided excellent food for thought for the Chamber as it plans its Advocacy Agenda for the period 2020-2021.

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet, who was in attendance, applauded the efforts of the Chamber. He encouraged the Chamber to take the lead in establishing a single private sector organisation, for which the Government of Saint Lucia would identify funding. This way, the interests of the entire private sector could be better represented as the body would

have sufficient resources to finance a strong, effective and professional staff to better engage the public sector.

The Chamber remains ever grateful for the support of members, in particular Digicel, Bank of St. Lucia Limited and Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort, who contributed to the overall success of the 135th AGM through sponsorship.

The Members of the Board of Directors of the Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture 2019/2020 are: President Karen Peter, Caribbean Metals 1st Vice President Johnathan Johannes, 1st National Bank 2nd Vice President Jason King, St. Lucia Distillers Immediate Past President Martin Dorville, Massy Stores (SLU) Ltd. Executive Member Trevor Louisy, LUCELEC Executive Member Siobhan James-Alexander, Digicel St. Lucia Ltd. Executive Member Donna Hinkson, Sagicor Executive Member Bruno Didier, Republic Bank Executive Member Dr. Alison Gajadhar, KMA Consulting Executive Member Cheryl Renwick, Renwick & Company Ltd. Executive Member Ross Gadner, Carasco & Son Ltd.

Homicide in Odsan

bout 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, 2019 officers attached to the Criminal Investigations Department, Castries received a report of a shooting at Odsan, Castries.

Officers were informed that an unknown male entered a business place and proceeded to discharge rounds of ammunition in the

direction of patrons.

On arrival, officers encountered Yanney Severin, a nineteen-year-old resident of Odsan, with apparent gunshot injuries about his body, receiving medical attention by emergency personnel. He was conveyed via ambulance to Victoria Hospital where he was pronounced dead. A post mortem examination is

scheduled for a later date.

Two other males sustained injuries during the said incident. Both males are reported to be in stable condition.

Anyone with information regarding this matter is asked to contact the Crime Hotline on 45-CRIME (452-7463) or the Major Crimes Unit on 456-3754.

THE STAR

november 30, 2019

REGIONAL

www.stluciastar.com

The Environmental Impact of Caribbean Tourism Undermines its Economic Benefit

I

n the Caribbean, tourism employs 2.4 million people and contributes more than US$62 billion (15.5%) to GDP (2018) making it the most tourism-reliant region in the world. But the pursuit of tourism-driven economic growth overlooks a significant environmental burden. The global sector is responsible for 8% of all global greenhouse gas emissions—4.5 billion tons of CO2 per year—and for small islands such as Dominica and Saint Lucia, where total emissions are a mere drop in the ocean compared to that of large nations, tourism’s contribution to domestic carbon emissions can run as high as 97% and 70% respectively.

(Gossling, 2013)

With the high average footprint of tourism-related activities, such as diving classes and jet-ski rides, each of which produces about 24 kg of CO2 per tourist, or golf courses which use as much water as 60,000 rural residents and 1,500 kg of chemical fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides each year, scientists and economists have suggested that there is a higher cost to the environment from developing tourism over other sectors.

According to a 2018 study reported in the journal Nature Climate Change, one dollar of travel-related consumption produces a carbon footprint of 1 kg CO2e, which is 25% higher than the global average emissions produced per dollar spent across all sectors. If this formula was applied to the Caribbean it would mean that in 2018, regional tourism contributed 62 billion kg CO2e to global emissions.

A significant proportion of tourism’s carbon footprint is associated with international transport. Aviation and the cruise industry contribute 3-5% of the world's total carbon dioxide emissions, with long haul flights producing 16% of all tourismrelated CO2 emissions. Case in point: A round trip flight from New York to Barbados produces 505 kg of CO2 per passenger while a round trip from London Gatwick to Kingston Jamaica produces 985.8 kg of CO2 per passenger— the equivalent of burning 1,077 pounds of coal. Comparatively, the average cruise ship passenger was responsible for 820 kg CO2e in emissions in 2017. (Global Sustainable Tourism Dashboard)

Hotels are major contributors to global carbon emissions. According to the Hotel Global Decarbonisation Report, the hotel sector has been tasked with reducing absolute carbon emissions by 90% by 2050 in order to keep global warming below the 2-degree threshold in

If the tourism industry were a country, it would be the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

the Paris Climate Agreement.

Given their round-theclock energy consumption, hotels have a higher carbon footprint than other building categories. According to the International Tourism Partnership and Greenview’s Hotel Footprint Tool, the mean carbon footprint per Caribbean hotel room is equivalent to the amount of emissions of 3.4 passenger vehicles per year. A Caribbean hotel room has more than twice the mean carbon footprint of a hotel room in London or Hawaii, almost four times that of Toronto and has a larger footprint than the average room in Thailand or Mexico.

In the Caribbean, hotels tend to source most of their food from imports causing the carbon footprint associated with hotel food to be typically high.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, 13 nights in a five-star allinclusive hotel resort can produce food-related carbon emissions of 205 kg per person and 13 nights in a four-star hotel can produce 91 kg of emissions per person.

Tourists are also directly responsible for a great deal of environmental damage inflicted on their host countries. From natural habitat loss, reduction in biodiversity, over-exploited land and water resources, pollution (land and marine) and coral reef damage, tourism places a great deal of stress on the natural resources on which it depends.

Countries are seeking to curb the environmental impact of tourism by making hotels more green and climate resilient, by integrating eco-tourism into their tourism product and by implementing policies to protect marine and terrestrial resources.

Despite these investments, the negative impacts of climate change will be increasingly unavoidable. Climate change will increase the severity of extreme weather events such as droughts, storms and hurricanes, which are likely to negatively impact tourism revenues.

In the years to come, sea level rise will impact coastal tourism infrastructure and development. According to the United Nations, a sea-level rise of one metre would cause more than 29% of major resort properties

in the CARICOM region to be partially or fully inundated by water, while 49% would be damaged or destroyed by a combination of sea-level rise and storm surge.

If temperatures rise according to worst-case scenario predictions, scientists predict “the Caribbean alone could generate an extra $22 billion and $46 billion in storm and infrastructure damages and tourism losses by 2050 and 2100.” (Reyer, 2015)

These expenses will be compounded by the social cost of emissions from the carbon intensive tourism sector.

According to estimates from the Environmental Defence Fund, the social cost or dollar value of damages from emitting one ton of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is just over $50 per ton. This means that in 2010, the social cost of emissionsrelated damages from Barbados’ tourism sector was $45,250,000.

This is more than twice the amount of European tourist expenditures within that market during the first quarter of that year.

While the region as a whole contributes less than 2% to global greenhouse gas emissions, regional emissions on a per capita level are significantly higher than the global average (USAID), with tourism mostly to blame— this should not be neglected simply because aggregate numbers cannot compare to those of large nations.

The relationship of tourism to the environment is complex.

Given the sizeable carbon footprint of the industry, the region has been attempting to reduce emissions and environmental impacts while improving the climate resilience of tourism infrastructure, particularly within coastal communities.

Some governments have begun to pre-emptively remove a few tourism eggs from their economic basket and are diversifying across emerging sectors such as blockchain, medical marijuana and renewable energy.

---Forbes

The Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund (SLUNCF)

CALL FOR PROPOSALS for

Environmental Projects with a Tourism Focus

Eligible applicants must be from Saint Lucia and can be from government agencies; local universities or colleges; registered local, regional (Caribbean) NGOs; private businesses; local community associations; and other appropriate local entities of Saint Lucia.

The SLUNCF has approximately $85,000USD, which it has received from The Tourism Enhancement Fund of the SLHTA, to use for project grants that focus on environmental management with a focus on tourism. The grant size cannot exceed $50,000 XCD. Funded projects should be implemented within 1 year.

Find out more about the SLUNCF and the Call for Proposals, including the guidelines to apply @ https://www.sluncf.org or https://www.facebook.com/sluncf/

You can also call 758 285 0445/285 8137 or visit us at our Of�ice at Crick Road, Sans Souci, Castries

The Call for Concept Notes will open from 29 November 2019 Deadline for receipt of Concept notes is 6 January 2020

Concept Notes received after the closing date will NOT be considered or processed.

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november 30, 2019 THE STAR

www.stluciastar.com

Royal Bank of Canada - St. Lucia Branch Operations

Abandoned Property

as at 31 October, 2019

In accordance with the Banking Act #7 Sec 58(3), we publish hereunder the names of account holders of RBC Royal Bank with unclaimed balances for over 15 years.

Unclaimed amounts will be transferred to the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank if no claim is made within thirty (30) days of this notice. Interested parties may inquire at their local RBC Royal Bank Branch, if their name appears on the abandoned Property Listing.

ACCOUNT TYPE

TRANSIT

ACCOUNT NBR

NAME

ACCOUNT TYPE

TRANSIT

ACCOUNT NBR

NAME

Savings

09465

751-535-6

JACQUELINE JOAN EVERETT

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072155773

BERNADETTE VITALIS

Savings

09465

752-337-6

PATRICIA ANN LYNCH-PAUL

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072168239

MARIANA EDWARD

Savings

09465

752-393-9

FRANCOIS GUY ROBERT PARENT

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072543374

THOMAS DORVILLE

Savings

09465

790-001-2

KATHY BIRCH

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072577287

LINDA RANICIA MAXWELL

Savings

09465

790-010-3

MARGUERITE DORVILLE

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072605655

KELVIN MATTY

Savings

09465

790-180-4

AMY Z N FELECIAN

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011072691373

MARK WATERS

Savings

09465

790-397-4

LINUS THEOPHILUS

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011075113718

SEAN MATTHEW

Current A/c

09475

116-269-2

KENNETH R HALL OR PAULINE E HALL

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011077023767

HERMINA H. MC LEAN

Savings

09475

704-382-1

SYMPHIA DANDAS

Reg Sav Account

18000

1800011077050724

MARY JANE HIPPOLYTE

Savings

09475

705-868-8

CLAUDE EUSTACE HIPPOLYTE

Young Leaders

18000

1800011078010874

THEOPHILUS STEPHEN

Savings

09475

706-546-9

MARIE J FOUCHER OR CHARLES WEEKES

Young Leaders

18000

1800011078019057

MERGINA GROSPAL

Savings

09475

707-740-7

EVESTA JN MARIE

Young Leaders

18000

1800011078021434

RUBIA ST MARIE

Savings

09475

708-203-5

PRISCILLIA OR ELIUS PAUL

Young Leaders

18000

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1

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THE STAR NOVEMBER 30, 2019

A

THE ART OF TEACHING YOGA

s yoga teachers, we want to master the principles of effective teaching. We teach from the heart, not from the brain alone. The teacher should learn to cultivate persistence in the student, build up their willpower, give them knowledge and teach them where to focus and how much effort to put into it.

The teacher must remain sattvic inside and show the rajasic nature outside. Sattvic is light and illuminating; rajasic is active and ambitious. The

S

HEALTH 21

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rajasic quality of the teacher helps to overcome the tamasic nature of the student. Tamasic is lazy, inactive, unmotivated.

The teacher should maintain effective demonstration skills to show the student the shape, direction and movement of the pose.

Students who come to class for the first time, who have never practised yoga previously, may have no idea about what yoga is, so we want to demonstrate each and every pose in order that they may understand.

After the student sees the demonstration, they then do the pose with the directions of the teacher. The teacher gives instructions on how to move the body so that the student can feel the pose.

As a teacher, it is essential to develop good demonstration skills and give clear verbal instructions which are easy to understand. The teacher must teach according to the students’ needs, and maintain a presence of mind.

Some students learn from

missing, then demonstrate it again, showing what they did wrong and how to correct it.

The teacher should do this until the student fully understands the pose. Once the pose is understood, which can take days, weeks or months, the student then learns to go

auditory, which is hearing about the pose; some learn visually, which is seeing the pose; and others learn kinetically by feeling the pose. As teachers we must clearly give the student all of the options so they have the best experience of the pose and yoga.

After demonstrating for the the first time, the teacher should then do the pose with the student so that they can see it as they are doing it. The teacher should observe the student, identify what may be

deeper and to move on to more concentrated instruction which eventually leads the student to appreciating the anatomical movements of the body, how the body then connects to the mind and how that connection creates a meditation in movement.

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

Sandals Foundation and Island Routes Caribbean Adventures raise Environmental Awareness through Children’s Literature

taying true to its commitment to give back to youth—and spotlight the environment—throughout the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, and Island Routes Caribbean Adventure Tours, together have raised more than US$12,000 towards increasing environmental awareness.

The Sandals Foundation partnered with Island Routes to leverage its community basedtour, the Reading Road Trip, by

using funds raised to purchase thousands of environmental awareness story books, games and resources. Reading Road Trip is aimed at enhancing literacy levels and education by encouraging island visitors to bring the excitement of reading to children at local kindergarten and primary schools.

This donation also forms part of the Foundation’s efforts to increase its environmental engagement to 100,000 people over the next ten years. All resources have been dispatched

and marine resources.”

Ryan Terrier, VP of Operators at Island Routes, says, “Giving back to the communities in which we work, live, and play is paramount to us at Island Routes, especially as it relates to our youth and the environment. By gifting these environmental books and games, we are unlocking a whole new world for our students to learn about the importance of our natural resources and how they can protect and conserve them.”

across the eight islands where Sandals and Beaches operate.

Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation, says, “Children are our best assets in developing a culture which practises positive environmental habits and change. By engaging schools, we can effectively build within our students a deep appreciation for the Caribbean’s eco-systems and harness within them those positive behaviours that seek to conserve and protect our land

Students at Moneague Teachers’ College Basic School share bright smiles after taking part in a reading session with environmental books.

Royal Bank of Canada - St. Lucia Branch Operations

Abandoned Property

as at 31 October, 2019 (continued)

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Unclaimed Drafts DATE OF DRAFT

CURRENCY

24th March, 2004

XCD

31st March, 2004

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9372

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9062

WINDWARD AND LEEWARD BREWERY

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RAINBOW HOTEL

27th May, 2004

XCD

7461

ACCOUNTANT GENERAL ST LUCIA AIR AND SEA PORT AUTHORITY SUPREME ENGINEERING SERVICES

NAME OF PAYEE FCIB

NAME OF PURCHASER KENNETH JAMES SHAWN

K. C. TRUCKING

VERNELLE BROOKS

26th July, 2004

XCD

20872

17th August, 2004

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24407

XCD

20944

GEORGE DANIEL

GEORGE DANIEL

XCD

24620

GEORGE DANIEL

GEORGE DANIEL TAMARA LAWRENCE RENNEE'S CONSTRUCTION

06th September, 2004 10th September, 2004

2

DRAFT NUMBER

04th November, 2004

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25344

DEMERARA MUTUAL LIFE ASSOCIATION

09th November, 2004

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34604

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

22

www.stluciastar.com

november 30, 2019 THE STAR

THE STAR

NOVEMBER 30, 2019

KIM’S KORNER

T

programmes often focus on regaining movement and function so that activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and eating, and mobility skills, such as transferring between bed and chair/wheelchair, walking and wheelchair skills, can be done independently and with ease.

Multiple sclerosis: This is an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation and damage (demyelination) to the myelin (protective covering) of nerves. To date no cure has been discovered for MS; the aim of treatment is to manage exacerbation of symptoms and slow down decline in function.

Steroids may be prescribed to speed up recovery during a relapse but most often treatment is aimed at specific symptoms. For example, Baclofen can relax muscles, easing spasms. Unfortunately, many of the medications have side-effects and it is important to weigh up the pros and cons.

Physiotherapists can help with the management of pain and give advice on lifestyle changes and exercise to help maintain strength, flexibility and function.

Parkinson’s Disease: This is a neurological disorder and was first known by the name Shaking Palsy but later took its name from the English doctor who determined it in 1817, James Parkinson. Its symptoms appear slowly and it is often difficult to diagnose in the early stages. One of the characteristic signs of Parkinson’s is a tremor in any limb but usually the hand or arm. Other early signs are stiffness and the slowing of movements and difficulty walking, with the loss of arm swing, shuffling and shorter steps. There is often loss of facial expression, with reduced blinking and smiling due to changes in muscle function and stiffness; the face can take on a mask-like appearance.

People with Parkinson’s may find problems not only with movement, but with speech too. It can become soft and/or slurred; it is not uncommon for hesitation before speaking and, with the loss of inflection in the tone, everything is said at one level, with no expression. As the disease progresses, changes in a person’s thinking processes can be observed and, in the advanced stages, dementia is common.

There is no cure so, at

present, treatment focuses on managing the symptoms with medication and physiotherapy.

Introducing exercise during the early stages of the disease has been shown to be effective in slowing down its progression.

The best, and often underutilized, therapies are speech therapy and physiotherapy.

Physiotherapists are trained in the art of movement and function; it isn’t always about pain management.

Physiotherapists assess posture and movement and design programmes that cater for individual needs, based on symptoms and presentation.

ALS: The correct terminology is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease. It is a debilitating, progressive neurodegenerative disease that often leads to a shortened life expectancy.

ALS is part of the group of conditions known as Motor Neurone Diseases. Motor neurones are the cells that control voluntary muscle activity such as speaking, walking, breathing and swallowing.

To date there is no cure for ALS and treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving quality of life and slowing down the progression. Physiotherapy is often beneficial and assists to improve posture, prevent joint contractures and slow down muscle weakness and atrophy.

Treatment will include advice on safe manual handling and transfer techniques, stretching and strengthening exercises, and respiratory physiotherapy to improve breathing techniques and keep the chest free of secretions. Because of the associated weakness of the muscles around the ribs and diaphragm, coughing can be affected and makes clearing secretions from the chest difficult.

Traumatic Brain Injury: The most common causes of a traumatic brain injury are falls and road traffic accidents

23

JOB PROFILE

Physiotherapy and Neurological Conditions his will be my last column for a while. It has been so much fun sharing information with you. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have.

This week will finish off our series on what is physiotherapy I will explain the role that physiotherapists play in neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s Disease, ALS and traumatic brain Injury. The challenging thing about helping somebody manage these longterm conditions and reach their maximum potential is not only the vast difference between them, but also the differences between individuals. No two cases present the same, and the needs and expectations of each person are different.

It is often thought that these conditions are an affliction of older people but that is not true; these conditions are not discriminatory and can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, health or fitness.

The important underlying factor is managing the symptoms and helping people to function to the best of their ability. Conditions like Parkinson’s, MS and ALS are progressive, although how quickly they progress and how they affect each person follows no definite path. On the other hand, conditions like stroke and traumatic brain injury can improve, depending on the area of the brain that has been damaged, the cause, and the timely intervention of medical care and rehabilitation.

Stroke: This can be a devastating life-changing event, not only for the individual but for family and close friends.

Stroke is a sudden attack on the brain and nervous system, either from a bleed or a clot, but it’s important to understand that the brain and nervous system are miraculous, adaptable organs; as well as helping us progress and learn from birth they are also capable of repair and recovery.

In order to improve your recovery and return to function and independence, it is important to start early rehabilitation, with emphasis on moving correctly and not allowing compensatory techniques. Regaining strength and balance are the first steps to getting back on your feet.

Physiotherapy rehabilitation

HEALTH

www.stluciastar.com

but they can also be caused by sports—heading a ball or the clashing of heads, fights or being shaken violently. The force of the brain hitting a hard surface or being subjected to rapid deceleration—for example when moving and hitting a firm object—results in the brain moving forwards, backwards or both within the skull.

The management of a traumatic brain injury will be dependent upon the diagnosis; it may be that surgery is indicated if there has been a severe fracture or if there is pressure from a bleed or haematoma. Where surgery is not indicated, medication may be the first line of treatment to avoid secondary damage to the brain, whether that is to induce a coma to minimise the amount of oxygen needed by the brain or diuretics to help reduce the fluid in the soft tissues and therefore the pressure on the brain.

Once the patient is stable then physiotherapy may be recommended to minimise the risk of secondary complications like contractures; relearn motor skills and to help clients with functional tasks. The aim of all interventions is to prevent complications and improve function and quality of life.

Although it may not always be possible to achieve the same level of independence that a person had before the injury, it is important that everyone is given an opportunity to reach their full potential.

So remember, physiotherapy is not just for sports injuries. We treat a range of conditions that involve changes to movement and loss of function. Keeping fit and active may not prevent these conditions from affecting you but it may determine the outcome of treatment.

Research has shown that a healthy lifestyle helps you cope better with the unexpected.

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

JOB TITLE: INVENTORY CLERK REPORTS TO: Finance Manager/Inventory Supervisor The incumbent is required to perform the following functions among others: • Schedule regular cycle counts of inventory, to ensure all SKU are counted at least once every 60 days.

• Conduct investigations of all variances between physical stock and Great Plaines software in a timely manner.

• To assist in the achievement of Management and Financial reporting requirements.

• Conduct cycle counts are planned and performed daily to ensure that all items are counted at least once in every 60 days.

• All variance between systems and physical counts are investigate and rectified, necessary adjustments within 2 working days.

• Ensure all transfers done are correctly.

• Monitor CPJ’s inventory Spot checks deliveries to ensure deliveries are correct.

• Reviews receiving of goods to ensure that they are correctly posted and all procedures are adhered to • Tracks inventories of Work in Progress and Returns to Main Warehouse.

• Coordinates and manages quarterly and end of year stock take.

Qualifications and Experience Required: 1. 2 A’ Level or an Associate degree in Business Management.

2. Comprehensive knowledge of Micro Office Software Suite- Microsoft Word/Excel/Access 3. At least 2 years working experience in inventory environment.

Skills and Other Attributes Required: • Strong Interpersonal and Communication skills, Computer Literate, Ability to maintain a high level of Accuracy, Detailed oriented and thoroughness, Excellent Time Management Skills, Sound problem solving skills. Ability to work consistently towards set deadlines, Team Player, Customer Service Skills.

Compensation & Benefits: We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package which will be influenced by the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Please forward a cover letter and complete resume, including work related references to cjohn@slu.cpj.com Applications with resumes can also be mailed to: P.O. BOX BJ46 CUL DE SAC CASTRIES Deadline for applications is Monday December 6th, 2019.

Only applicants who meet the criteria will be acknowledged.

24 SPORTS

www.stluciastar.com

NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

ARC Flotilla was a low key affair

By David R Pascal

A

nniversaries are special and, with this being the 30th anniversary of Saint Lucia as the final stop for the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, one would have thought the relevant authorities would go all out to make this year’s ARC flotilla a memorable one.

Didn’t happen! Only 29 boats of every size and description took part in the flotilla last Sunday. It coincided with the official start time of the ARC in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria where boats set off across the Atlantic to the finish line, just outside IGY Rodney Bay Marina, some 2,700 nautical miles away.

At 12 noon the flotilla left Castries Harbour and set sail . . . well, not everyone, as there were also speed boats making their way to Rodney Bay. There was no prize for the best decorated boat but, if there had been, Janna Bout and crew looked pretty in pink while drawing attention to breast cancer awareness.

General Manager of IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Shawn Devaux was on board Reel Extreme with several guests including the media.

Other media personnel from the Mirror, Star Publishing Company and DBS were on board a vessel courtesy of The Moorings, with Alex Bousquet of DBS at the helm.

Devaux gave his take on this year’s flotilla following while docked at the marina: “I think today was an exceptional

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No doubt about it, the crew on board Janna Bout were pretty in pink.

that’s important. The guys who came out today understood the importance of the flotilla, in our relationship with the ARC, the ARC’s relationship with Saint Lucia, and we are now in the 30th year so we must be doing something right.”

When I asked if there was any particular reason why this year’s flotilla was not going Sailing away to the IGY Rodney Bay Marina at Sunday’s ARC flotilla.

day, very special for us; Saint Lucia and IGY partnering with the Yachting Association, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board and the St Lucia Yacht Club to make this happen. It is a pivotal moment for us as an island.

We now commemorate the start of the ARC and we know they are on their way, and hopefully welcome them here in 14 days.”

Devaux tried his best to put a positive spin on things but, this being the 30th anniversary of the ARC finishing in Saint Lucia, you would have thought that the flotilla would have been

extra special and celebrated like no other. Truth be told, the recognition and celebration was extremely low key.

When I mentioned my disappointment with this year’s flotilla Devaux again tried putting things in a positive light: “You know, considering the flotilla was initially not going to happen until two weeks ago, when we came together to say that we should make it happen because it’s that’s pivotal and we understood how important it was; considering that we had 29 boats—is what I counted— I think it was successful and

Never got any respect, says Windies legend Chris Gayle

est Indies star Chris Gayle has hit out at his critics, which he feels ranges from “players, management, head of management, board members” of every franchise he has ever played for in the global T20 circuit. 40-year-old Gayle had most recently turned up for the Jozi Stars at the Mzansi Super League in South Africa.

Gayle said that the criticism was not reserved just for his current franchise, who are yet to win a match this season after winning the title last year. They still have four matches left in the league stage but Gayle won’t be part of the

campaign any more.

“And I am not talking about this franchise; I am talking generally, even from players as well. I am talking players, management, head of management, board members.

Chris Gayle never get no respect. Once Chris Gayle fails, it’s the end of his career, he is no good, he is the worst player and all these other things. I’ve generally overcome these things and I expect these things and I have lived with these things,” he bemoaned.

Gayle has lashed out at his critics.

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to happen he replied: “I won’t really comment on that now but we at IGY, we understood the importance of it. I think those who are normally in charge of it didn’t realize the importance of it and I must say kudos for opening up their arms to realize the importance of it. In private discussions they did realize the importance

of the flotilla and very quickly they supported us. The Yachting Association, The St Lucia Yacht Club, Events Company of St Lucia came on board and we made it happen.”

Devaux spoke proudly of six youths from Saint Lucia who are part of a Youth Team comprising a crew of 12, saying, “It gives me great pleasure at IGY, and our comrades here, to be part of such a great event.”

300 boats are making their way here from Las Palmas. On their arrival, at whatever time they make landfall, every boat will be greeted at the dock by personnel from the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority and World Cruising Club bearing a welcome rum punch and cold drinks.

There is a full schedule of events in Rodney Bay for all ARC crews and their friends and family, culminating in the ARC prize-giving on December 21.

St Lucia hosts FIFA Administrative Leadership Course

he FIFA, Member Association of Concacaf Technical Directors, with the participation of General Secretaries, Module 2A Administrative Leadership Course got underway with an official opening at Bay Garden Inn on Sunday, November 24.

Gareth Jennings, FIFA’s Technical Director, addressed the participants and gave a brief outline of the course, which took place from November 24 to 29.

President of the Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) Inc., Lyndon Cooper welcomed the participants and urged them to, among other things, use their good position in moving Caribbean football forward in the quest of making an impact on the world stage. He felt the time was more than opportune for the establishment of a Caribbean Professional Football League as, according to him, this will provide the vehicle for the advancement of the sport.

The region is represented by at least twelve Concacaf countries, with Cyril Ces Podd, Emmaunel Bellase, Solomon Alexander and Victor President of the Saint Lucia Football Reid being Saint Lucia’s representatives.

Association Inc, Lyndon Cooper (right) The course was facilitated by Anton Corneal of received a token of appreciation from Trinidad and Tobago, Lenny Lake of St Kitts and FIFA Technical Director, Gareth Jennings.

James Houchen.

Officials, technical directors and general secretaries at the opening of the FIFA Administrative Course on Sunday at Bay Gardens Inn.

THE STAR

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West Indies ICC U19 Cricket World Cup team named

ricket West Indies recently announced the 15-man squad for the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup that takes place in South Africa in January 2020.

Captained by Kimani Melius, this exciting, young squad will firstly be facing the England U19s and Sri Lanka U19s in the West Indies Rising Stars U19 Tri-Series to be held in Antigua in December.

The squad will aim to recapture the trophy that West Indies U19s won in 2016, and features three team members who played at the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2018: Captain Kimani Melius, Ashmead Nedd and Nyeem Young. Other notable names include Leonardo Julien and Jayden Seales who are part of the West Indies Emerging Players squad that is performing strongly in Zone B of the current Colonial Medical Insurance Super50 Cup. This squad of potential future West Indies stars will host the England and Sri Lanka U19s teams in nine matches to be played in Antigua at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground and then the Coolidge Cricket Ground, starting on December 6. These matches will be used to work on game strategies and finesse their plans before the top two teams face off in the final on December 21.

The West Indies U19s then travel to South Africa after Christmas to finalize their preparations in advance of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup which will take place from January 17 to February 9. At the start of their quest to add to the momentous 2016 world title, they will face three-time winners Australia, 1998 winners England and tournament debutants Nigeria, in Zone B. West Indies U19 Head Coach Graeme West said, “I would like to congratulate the 15 players selected to represent the West Indies in both the upcoming U19 Tri-Series and the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. The Tri- Series was always a key component to the team’s preparation and it will be used to establish our game strategies and reinforce the key messages that the support staff have identified as essential to playing successful white ball cricket.

“Everything we have been working on over the last twelve months has been designed to prepare the team for the opening World Cup games against Australia and England

Saint Lucia’s Kimani Melius is Captain of the West Indies U19 squad.

on January 18 and 20.”

The U19 squad members have been building their game experience and gaining match practice, having been integrated into their regional franchise squads and attending specialist U19 training camps during the past 12 months.

West continued: “We have seen in our trial games and practice matches the huge potential that this squad of young players possess and the areas that needed further development. I am very grateful to those franchises that have integrated many of the players in their Super50 Cup preparations and the regional franchise coaches that have been providing additional support on a daily basis.

“I am now looking forward to watching this young team move forward over the next three months. It’s going to be an exciting journey for every member and one that I hope provides them with some great memories and experiences but, equally, the confidence and skills to move into the professional game.”

Newly appointed Talent ID Manager Robert Haynes elaborated on the squad selection: “The majority of players have been in the programme for 12 months and the Tri-Series represents the first competitive action for all bar three of the squad; Melius,

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019

Nedd and Young all featured in the 2018 World Cup and the experiences they gained in New Zealand will be tapped into and filtered through the team.”

Haynes addressed how the squad was selected with regard to the conditions that the West Indies U19s face in South Africa: “We have looked to develop a strong seam bowling attack and the five seamers selected all offer something different. Seales and Forde were successful in the U19s Rising Stars Regional Tournament that took place in St Vincent and the Grenadines, while Simmonds was the surprise package with his extra pace and bounce. We have also looked for batsmen that are comfortable on the back foot and are prepared to play with a positive intent. Mbeki Joseph was a late addition to the squad but fully deserved his call-up with a string of big scores.

“The Tri-Series will provide the perfect preparation challenge. With a mix of styles likely to be displayed

by England and Sri Lanka, the six group games will provide the players with opportunities to build confidence and get their game in order before the attention turns to the World Cup.” CWI President, Ricky Skerritt congratulated the selected players: “I want to congratulate all who have gained selection. These young, talented cricketers are the best of our U19 Rising Stars. I call on all West Indies cricket stakeholders and fans to give them our full support and best wishes now and in the future.”

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Cornwall spins Afghanistan to 187 with his Super Seven

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ahkeem Cornwall announced himself on the world stage with a memorable bowling performance as West Indies dominated Afghanistan on Wednesday in the opening day of the inaugural Test between the two sides.

The off-spinner had the remarkable figures of 7-75 on his first outing outside the Caribbean and second Test. Cornwall’s heroics were helped by some stunning catches close to the wicket as Afghanistan were bowled out for 187 just after tea – as the Ekana Cricket Stadium hosted its first day of Test cricket.

West Indies then reach 68-2 off 22 overs with John Campbell, in his sixth Test, looking positive on 30 not out and Shamarh Brooks, in his third match, equally assured on 19 not out.

Campbell has so far hit a mighty six over midwicket off Rashid Khan, while Brooks played a stupendous extra-cover drive off the same bowler which sped away for a boundary. The pair saw out the last hour in fading light after Shai Hope (seven) and Kraigg Brathwaite (11) fell in quick succession against the Afghan’s heavy diet of spin.

Speaking after the day, Cornwall said it was the reward for patience on a helpful and reminded everyone batting remains his stronger suit.

“I was just looking to put the ball in the right areas and do what the captain asked of me. I just tried to stay as balanced as possible, which is something I spoke a lot about with Roddy Estwick, the bowling coach. We decided to bowl first; as the captain has said earlier, that there was some moisture in the first hour. It is turning a lot but, once the ball turns a little softer and older, it’s not as much, so I had to use my variations,” the 26-year-old said.

“I have to cherish this day. I will remember it for the rest of my life and look to keep getting performances

Rahkeem Cornwall was in brilliant form against Afghanistan.

like this as the journey goes on. It was a special day . . . not just the way I bowled, but for some of the catches as well—by the captain at leg slip and Shai with two sharp one at slip. I still see myself as a batting all-rounder . . . so the wickets are a bonus. I will look to get some runs when I bat as well.”

Cornwall’s final haul was the best first innings analysis by a West Indian spinner since Jack Noreiga took 9-95 against India in Trinidad in 1971. This is the second fivewicket haul by a West Indies spinner this year, following Roston Chase’s match-winning 8-60 against England in Barbados.

Cornwall was introduced into the attack in the first hour and bowled all his 25.3 overs from the northern end.

He made the first breakthrough when he had Ibrahim Zadran brilliantly caught one-handed by Holder at leg-slip as the opener attempted a paddle-sweep.

Afghanistan went to lunch at 90-3 but after the break slipped to 111-7 as Cornwall knifed through the middleorder. The innings was revived through a robust eighthwicket stand of 76 between debutant Hamzat Hotak (34) and wicket-keeper Afsar Zazai (32).

The match resumed on the second day, Thursday.

Veterans Football Competition Results

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he Philip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort continue to generate excitement and intrigue in the ongoing Veterans in Sports Inc football competition as it continues being ‘Strong to the Finish’.

On Saturday, November 23 three matches were played. Anse La Raye Veterans and VSADC played to a 1–1 draw; group leaders Flow Lancers were held to a goal-less draw by All Blacks of Dennery, and Caricom Masters eventually got on the points table with a 2–0 victory over Vieux Fort North.

The action continued on Sunday, November 24 with Canaries Veterans getting the better of Micoud Veterans 2–1, condemning them to their second consecutive defeat. Mon Repos Sharks surprisingly defeated Labowee Connexions 1–0, while Gros Islet Veterans maintained their unbeaten run to date with a 5–2 victory over Choiseul Veterans.

The tournament continues this weekend at the same venue.

Today (Saturday) there is a triple header: Soufriere vs defending champions Micoud Veterans at 4:00 pm; Flow Lancers up against Labowee Connexions at 6:00 pm; then Mon Repos face Vieux Fort South at 8:00 pm.

Caricom Masters (above) defeated Vieux Fort North 2-0.

Tomorrow at 3:00 pm sees Prophets and Kings vs Congorians; at 5:00 pm Laborie Veterans entertain Canaries Veterans, and at 7:00 pm Vieux Fort North and Vieux Fort South face off.

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NOVEMBER 30, 2019 THE STAR

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Rugby Technical Director “irreplaceable” Will he stay or will he go?

A youngster shows off his skills at the Schools Rugby Festival.

Technical Director Wayne Pantor instructing youngsters at the Schools Rugby Festival.

By David R Pascal

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am coming to the end of my contract on November 27. I would say that the exposure and the experience of delivering rugby to the communities and schools has been excellent, in the sense that there is a lot of potential for growth. It will be enlightening if I could be here a little further to see the end result. The kids are very athletic and enthusiastic about learning the sport.”

Technical Director for the St Lucia Rugby Football Union (SLRFU), Wayne Pantor made the opening remarks at Tuesday’s first ever Schools Rugby Festival, which recently took place at the SAB Playing Facility. He has been imparting his immense knowledge of the game throughout Saint Lucia at several schools and has also spent time coaching the men and women’s national teams who, under his leadership, have prospered.

President of the SLRFU, Roger Butcher said: “The Schools Rugby Festival is a culmination of the SLRFU’s seven-month pilot programme of trying to introduce rugby into schools. Initially we had a cadre of 20 schools.

Unfortunately all of them could not attend today because of various commitments. Today we have secondary and primary schools here. Our objective is to introduce the game into the primary and secondary schools, with the intention of establishing a strong rugby base from which we can develop an under-16 national team and a national under-19 team.”

Butcher praised Pantor for what he has accomplished during his short time here.

He would love nothing better than for Pantor to have his contract with the SLRFU extended.

The St Lucia Olympic Committee Inc made it possible for Pantor to be here and undoubtedly will have the final say when it comes to

renewing his contract. Butcher is keeping toes and fingers crossed that Pantor will stay on a bit longer. “Not having him [Pantor] here anymore is a heavy, heavy loss but we are trying to find some way of keeping him here, short of kidnapping,” he joked.

Butcher looked on the bright side: “Our objective does not end when he ends his contract. Our immediate objective is the 2021 Youth Games and, coming out of that, our next objective is the 2024 Olympics.”

In that regard Pantor has definitely played a part in assisting the SLRFU in preparing for what lies ahead. Both the men’s and women’s national teams benefitted from his tutelage and experience, which will serve them well in preparation for the World Rugby Sevens taking place in Barbados December 13-14. Saint Lucia (male and female teams) is competing in the elite division which consists of professional and semiprofessional players.

GK Insurance/Mabouya Valley U19 Football Tournament Finals

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n Sunday, November 24 the Mabouya Valley Football League drew the curtains in entertaining style on its 2019 domestic season, with the third place play-off and final of the GK Insurance/ Mabouya Valley U19 Football Tournament.

In the third place play-off, Survivals FC defeated Chesters Sports Club 3-0 and captured third place honours.

In the final, Richfond Youth Organization (RYO) battled Rovers United in what was a keenly contested encounter with a combination of great plays and acrobatic saves by the goalkeepers. However, nearing the end of regulation time, in what was destined

to be settled via the penalty spot, RYO scored a goal in the 82nd minute, edging out Rovers United 1-0.

By winning, RYO captured their first GK Insurance/ Mabouya Valley youth title.

Rovers United fell short once again, having lost last year’s final to Togetherness Youth.

In the tournament’s closing ceremony, newly elected President of the Mabouya Valley Football League, Kendel Emmanuel, introduced the members of the Football League who had been elected on Thursday November 21 at the League’s first annual Congress.

Emmanuel encouraged the Mabouya Valley football family to embrace and support them in

the execution of their respective duties, in order for them to deliver the desired results.

He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to Grace Kennedy Insurance for their participation in Mabouya Valley youth development over the past 11 years. He said he looks forward to the two entities continuing this successful initiative for many years to come.

Agency Manager at GK Insurance, Severin Francois addressed the audience. He expressed satisfaction with the level of organisation and overall success of the tournament and mentioned they were proud sponsors of the 2020 Youth Football Tournament.

THE STAR

november 30, 2019

For Sale Expressions of interest in “Apollo of Brough” are sought, with an asking price of USD $18,000 or nearest offer.

Key Details Manufacturer: Ohlson 38 Hull Material: Fibreglass Rig: Sloop Type: Aft Cockpit Engine: BMC 1.5L, 4 cylinder diesel, 36bhp Flag: UK Tankage: Fuel: 25 gallons (imperial) Water: 80 gallons (in the keel) Holding tank: approx. 8 gallons Displacement: 7.5 tonnes Ballast: 3 tonnes lead Dimensions: Length: 38ft LWL: 36ft Beam: 10ft Draft: 6ft Displacement to length ratio: 160 Speed: Cruising speed: 6 knots @1400 RPM (3.8hrs per gallon) Max speed:7.2 knots @ 1900 RPM Accommodation: - 5 berths in total (2 with lea cloths) - Fore peak with double bed (hanging locker and shelves) - Galley area - Chart table - Heads Contacts: Lynne Vaughan lynnevneston@gmail.com Tel. (+44)151 336 8920 janetsaxby@yahoo.co.uk Tel. (+44)1482 843240 A full Inventory and further information is available to those with serious interest in “Apollo of Brough”

The Government of Saint Lucia through the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Local Government and Empowerment, the Executing Agency for the Youth Empowerment Project, now wishes to procure consultancy services for the following:

1. Development of an Operations Manual for the Youth Recidivism reduction Program and Out of School Suspension Program 2. Community Based Policing Training Manual For more information please visit www.govt.lc Closing date is December 5th 2019

CLASSIFIED 27

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VEHICLE FOR SALE White 2006 Nissan Altima in good condition.

Lady driven.

Left hand drive Best offer!

Call mobile: 720 5046 For more details

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

NOTICE

This serves as a formal notice from CLICO International Life Insurance Limited (Under Judicial Management) informing the following persons listed below to contact CLICO’s office located on Brazil Street, Castries, St. Lucia as soon as possible.

1.

Norbert Gerard Andre Bataillard - Darling Road, Castries, St. Lucia

2.

George Vital James - Rodney Bay, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

3.

George Williams - Massacre, Anse La Raye, St. Lucia or

32 West Ella Road Harlesen NW10 9PU London, England

4.

Peter Clarke - Barnard Hill, Castries, St. Lucia

5.

Angelina Dantzie-Brown - #36 Coral Street, Castries, St. Lucia

6.

Beverly J. George – Smith Street, Soufriere, St. Lucia

7.

Frances Girard - Bois D ’Orange, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

8.

Dilip Kumar Narsinghani - L’Anse Road, Castries, St. Lucia

Richard Surage – Judicial Manager CLICO International Life Insurance Limited (Under Judicial Management) Castries, St. Lucia Tel: 758-457-7600 Signed:

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2019

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