THE VINCENTIAN PDF-20-11-20

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER

20, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.47

A new Speaker Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

New Tourism PS Page 5

UWI honours two Page 12&13

EC$1.50

2 Kool, Maggie’s, etc.

Page 14

Health risk at Court Page 24

SJCK EARNS FIRST TIME TOP PLACE IN ‘ICODE784’

by DAYLE DA SILVA

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES has not employed a lockdown as a measure to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

And had the government implemented such a policy, as some regional and extra regional territories did, one can only imagine the impact this would have had on persons needing medication.

However, with the virtual pharmaceutical app created by the ‘Team SciGirls’ - Rianka Chance and Odia Charles - from the St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown (SJCK), sourcing prescription drugs and other types of medicines is no longer a problem, regardless of a lockdown or not.

It follows, therefore, given the practicality and more of the app, the SJCK walked away with the top prize in the ‘Secondary Schools’ App Category’ of the 2020 National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission’s ‘ICode784’ competition.

“Patients can utilize the app to shop for all their medical prescription needs,” Chance explained.

The SJCK ‘Team SciGirls’ – (l-r): Odia Charles and Rianka Chance The SVGS ‘Team Astra’, (l-r): Stanislaus Gomes – winner of the Secondary School App Category, gets the Continued on Page 3. and Isaac Cepeda – winner of the Secondary assurance of their trip to Barcelona from Apollo Knights, Executive School Idea Category.

Director/NTRC.

FORDE TO BECOME SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE INDICATIONS ARE THAT ATTORNEY-AT-LAW and former Unity Labour Party (ULP) Senator- Miss Rochelle Rochelle Forde is expected to make a return to the House of Parliament, this time to the Chair of the Speaker of the House.

(Facebook photo)

Forde will be the next Speaker of the House of Assembly of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Information received said that she is expected to be confirmed when the House meets on November 30, 2020 for its first sitting, since the November 05 general

elections.

There are no indications at this point as to whether the opposition New Democratic Party would propose an alternate, but sources said that the ULP nomination was discussed between Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Leader of the Opposition

Dr. Godwin Friday.

Ms. Forde, once confirmed, will become this country’s first female Speaker of the House.

She brings the experience of having sat previously in the House as Government Senator from 2005 — 2010, during which time she also served as Deputy Speaker of the House.

2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 3.

News 3 PM Gonsalves explains promotion process

The acceleration promotion approach has also been employed in the police force.

PRIME MINISTER and Minister of National Security, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has addressed the matter of promotion

within the RSVG Police Force, following concerns expressed about the process.

Two days before the

Nov. 05 general election, the Police Service Commission green lighted the promotion of forty-seven (47) Police

Officers.

Among those posts to which officers were promoted were Assistant Commissioner of Police, Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and Inspectors of Police.

There had been some less than supportive statements by opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) executive members, but there was no response by government until after the general election.

Dr. Gonslaves, speaking at a round table discussion hosted by Theresa Daniel and aired on VC3 TV on Wednesday 11th, sought to explain the promotion process as it obtains in the Police Force.

Promotions to the ranks of corporal, sergeant, he said, were within the domain of the

Commissioner of Police, who will be advised by the senior officers.

“If somebody is not promoted and they feel they were unfairly done, they would come to me and I may asked the Commissioner, has Theresa been overlooked, has John Browne been overlooked? He would say, ‘Well, I don’t know, I have to check this,’ before he would give me an answer,” Gonsalves told host.

He added, though, that sometimes the Commissioner would have the answer immediately.

As for promotions at the higher levels, recommendations would have to come from the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, which will then be forwarded to the Police Service

Commission, Dr. Gonsalves expounded.

“The positions of Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner are my call under the constitution,” said Gonsalves.

“Now it is true that there are weaknesses in the management of personnel and that includes in the police, in teaching, inside of the civil service and there is a vast improvement than what I met. For instance the database…. because information is an important tool in the management of human resources,” said the Prime Minister.

In addition to what Dr. Gonsalves described as being the rule of thumb, the acceleration promotion approach has also been employed in the RSVGPF. (KH)

SJCK earns first time top place in ‘ICode784’

‘Charismatechs’ - Zachery Richards and Jevonique Edwards – took the Open Category.

Continued from Front page.

The app allows users the service of having the items delivered to their home and pay on delivery.

Chance and Charles are both credited with the basic concept for the design. They disclosed that they decided upon the project just before the start of the preliminary round.

It is the first time finishing on top for the SJCK following a string of

follow-up finishes in previous competitions.

“It feels really, really great,” Chance told THE VINCENTIAN. Brodlon Daniel, Mentor and IT Teacher at the SJCK, commended the team on their success saying that they worked extremely hard and deserved to have won.

Daniel added that this year’s result ought to impact positively on the other students to become excited about participation in the competition in the future.

He, however, cautioned that it was not an “easy walk in the park.”

The SJCK collected EC$4,000 for their effort and won themselves, along with their mentor, a trip to Barcelona, Spain in March 2021, to attend the 4YN event, a startup business platform for investors and companies to connect and launch new business ventures.

The Girls’ High School rounded up the top three in Secondary Schools’ App category with ‘Team AG Tech’ (Ansonique Cuffy and Genevieve Mc Master) finishing first runner-up, and ‘Team Zen Tech’ (Safiya Andrews and Ajani Dyer) placing third.

‘Team Astra’, the duo of Stanislaus Gomes and Isaac Cepeda of the St Vincent Grammar School (SVGS), stepped up into the winner’s enclosure from their 2019 second place, in the Secondary Schools’ Idea Category.

Their ‘Freight.io’ app offers users their interests and academic the ease of ordering and having items qualifications. needed for their home business ‘Charismatechs’ finished ahead of sourced and delivered.

‘Dawati Techs’ - Camraul and According to Cepeda, unlike past Donnette Cadogan — who won years, this one was nerve-racking in EC$2,500. ‘Dem Island Boyz’ — that they did not feel as confident that Hudson Adams, Karim Cambridge and they would have come out on top.

Cody Ince — took the third position and “So we were completely blown away EC$1,500. when we heard that we won,” Cepeda added.

They were happy, though, to take away a cash prize of EC$2,000 prize.

Team Astra beat the ‘Rivals’ - Hailey Bowman and Mia Bailey of the Girls’ High School - into second place and Team G.S.S ‘Gladiators’ ON PAGE 15 of our edition of Friday 13th Dexican Williams and November 2020, we carried a commentary Samaya Connell of the headlined, ‘Elections 2020 — Where do we go Georgetown Secondary from here? NHI???’, written by a regular School into third place. contributor Donald De Riggs.

‘Rivals’ was rewarded Affixed to the commentary was a with a cash prize of photograph of Mr. Reginald Thomas, former EC$1,000 and ‘Gladiators’ Executive Director of the NIS. EC$800.

Mr. Thomas’ contends that the affixation of And ‘Charismatechs’, a the picture gave an impression that he was team comprised of Zachery the writer of the commentary, the backdrop Richards and Jevonique (Elections 2020) of which he would not have Edwards, won the ‘Open associated himself.

Category’ with their That being the case, we apologise for ‘Career Guidance’ app and whatever repercussions might have rebounded a EC$5,000 prize. on his person,and assure Mr. Thomas that It offers users who are there was no preconceived ill-intent on our undecided about a career part. path, options that best fit

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4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Another youth on gun, ammo charges UP TO PRESS TIME Wednesday, Mathias Harry was the latest youth to appear in court on firearm and ammunition charges.

The 29-year-old labourer of Redemption Sharpes is charged with possession of a 32 revolver, and six rounds of 32 ammunition without licences.

The charges reportedly stemmed from a recent police action which resulted in Harry’s arrest.

He pleaded not guilty to both charges when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday.

Harry, who was represented by Attorney Grant Connell, was granted $12,000 bail with one surety, along with reporting conditions, and he was ordered to surrender his travel documents.

He will return to Court at a later date. (HH)

PI into NurseÊs death winds down December 7 when the PI is slated for ABOUT NINE more continuation. witnesses, including lead The matter was investigator, Sergeant adjourned on Monday Biorn Duncan, are following the testimonies expected to testify at the of four witnesses, Preliminary Inquiry (PI) including Devorn James, into the January 30, 2020 a teacher at the St. shooting death of Arianna Martin’s Secondary Israel, a Cuban national, School in Kingstown; who was employed here as Corporal Jevon Patrick, a nurse. who assisted with the The woman’s husband, investigations, and one of Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Israel, a the couple’s sons. former Public Servant, Several witnesses had who is charged with the already testified at the murder, is expected to PI which started at the return to the Serious Serious Offences Court Offences Court on earlier this year. Among

by HAYDN HUGGINS

them were a number of students, including another son of the Israels.

Arianna Israel died after being shot several times on the compound of the St. Martin’s Secondary School, shortly after 3 p.m. on January 30 this year.

Attorney Dr. Linton Lewis is representing the accused, while Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche prosecutes, and Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne presides.

Riley man charged in road death RILEY RESIDENT Azeilo Jack was released on $20,000 bail last Monday, on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and

failing to renew his driver’s permit.

Jack has been charged with, on August 15, 2020, being the driver of motor vehicle RX 359,

did cause the death of Lamont Dickson of Richmond Hill by driving the said vehicle dangerously.

Jack is also charged,

as of the day of the accident, with failing to renew his driver’s permit on his birth date.

Jackson was not required to plea to the charges when he initially appeared before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Friday, November 13.

Bail was granted with reporting conditions, and Jack was ordered to surrender his travel documents.

Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he is not to leave the state without the Court’s permission.

The matter was then transferred to the Serious Offences Court where a February 15,

Lamont Dickson, whose death is alleged to have been casue by the reckless driving of Azeilo Jack.

2021 date was set for the Preliminary Inquiry.

Attorney Grant Connell is representing Jack. (HH)

Police investigating video UP TO WEDNESDAY afternoon, investigations were said to be ongoing following the circulation of a video on social media earlier this week.

The 13-second video, showing two men posing with a large sum of EC$100 bills, had been making its rounds on social media.

Both men are heard speaking in the video with one commenting “bare f..ing specks ($100) dey hay.”

THE VINCENTIAN reached out to Commissioner of Police, Colin John on the matter, and he confirmed that the police were investigating the matter.

He added that one of the men featured in the video was on Wednesday in police custody assisting with in the investigations. (DD)

Mitchel Israel – charged with causing the death of his wife by shooting her.

Man charged in Green Hill chopping CLARENCE PETERS of Green Hill has an early Court date set for 2021.

The 38-year-old labourer will return to the Serious Offences Court on January 11, for the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into an incident at Green Hill last Saturday, which left Armstrong Joseph, 51, also of that community, hospitalized with chop wounds to his neck and other parts of the body.

Peters has been charged with the attempted murder of Joseph.

The accused was not required to plea when he faced Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday.

The Prosecution did not object to bail, and Court Clerk Corporal Atnel Ash informed the Court that the investigator indicated to him that he had about ten witnesses, and asked for a time space of about three months.

Corporal Ash added that the investigator had also indicated that the victim was still warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

Peters was granted $30,000 bail with reporting conditions, and ordered to surrender his travel documents. There is to be no contact with the victim. (HH)

V New PS in Tourism Ministry

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 5.

News

THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM has taken on a whole new look as far as its highest offices are concerned.

Not only does it have a newly installed Minister — Carlos James — but it also has a new Permanent Secretary.

As such therefore, Minister James, a first

time minister, will not have the benefit of 15 years of experience of Mrs. Lavern Grant as his Permanent Secretary.

Mrs. Grant has been transferred to the Ministry of Transport, Works, Lands and Surveys, headed by Minister Montgomery

Daniel.

Her replacement at the Ministry of Tourism is Dr. Resa NoelMcBarnett.

Dr. Noel-McBarnett vacates her position of Director of Training in the Service Commissions Department. THE VINCENTIAN was not able to confirm whether

or not a replacement has been named for Dr. NoelMcBarnett.

Cecil Mc Kie, who did not contest the November 5 general election, was the Minister of Tourism in the last (2015-2020) Unity Labour Party administration.

Mrs. Lavern Grant could well be the longest serving Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism.

Dr. Resa NoelMcBarnett, brings a wealth of qualification to her new appointment as a Permanent Secretary.

Republic Bank celebrates 1st birthday REPUBLIC Bank’s celebration of its oneyear anniversary came to a close on Friday, November 13.

The month-long ‘RBEC Turns One’ birthday celebrations commenced on October 19.

The celebrations rolled out in the Bank’s operating territories throughout the region, with the objectives of rewarding its customers; strengthening relationships with the business community; and promoting a spirit of kindness and community spirit.

Towards these ends, the Managing Director, Country Managers and Customers shared with their respective countries, via Social Media channels, heartfelt testimonies, expressions of gratitude, reaffirmations of commitment and exciting news about the Bank’s 2021 plans.

All branches were festively decorated, and customers new and existing, were treated to Happy Hour Specials such as having their opening deposit paid by the bank.

There was a reduction

in interest rates on new loans and some waivering of fees to incentivize home and land ownership region wide.

Very importantly in these critical times, Republic Bank EC Limited promoted ‘Random Acts of Kindness’, with each of the territories selecting a charity/institution to be part of the celebration, and to receive donations and share in the birthday celebrations.

In the case of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the recipient institution was The Boys

at the Liberty Lodge Training School.

While the Republic Bank EC Limited’s birthday celebrations are over, the bank assured that it’s ‘Random Acts of Kindness’, community engagement and The Boys at the Liberty Lodge Training School rewarding customers shared in the Bank’s celebrations! with special offers will season amidst the five (5) ECCU territories continue. In fact, the current challenging and Sint Maarten on bank spoke of a circumstances.

November 1, 2019. campaign tailor made to (Source: Republic Bank Republic Bank suit the Christmas commenced operations in EC)

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6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial

Moral persuasion?

Wishful thinking!

IT WAS VLADIMIR LENIN who said, “There are no morals in politics; there is only experience.”

You don’t have to be a Leninist or what-have-you to discern the wisdom in the referenced quote.

It there was a shred of morals in our politics, the history of modern politics in this country would have been radically different.

The argument that the New Democratic Party (NDP) won the popular/majority vote in the Nov. 05 general elections and therefore, is the legitimate government, is nothing but wishful thinking.

The system of first-past-the-post (poll) makes this argument null and void; there is nothing in our democracy that would make the NDP’s claim legitimate.

And to speak of the NDP as having the moral authority to assume the seat of government, puts to spend the ‘truism’ that Lenin so tersely but aptly put.

There are simply no morals in the political system, the voting system that we have accepted unto ourselves. If there were, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) would graciously hand over the reins of government to the NDP. They would have had to bow to the moral high ground and give way to the popular vote.

But they, the ULP, are not legally bound so to do, and in the absence of anything moral about our politics and our voting system, they have done what is the obvious thing… reassumed the responsibilities of governance of this country.

Yes, the situation as it exists today is no different from the one that obtained in 1998, when the ULP garnered the popular vote but the NDP won the majority of seats and proceeded to form the government once again.

Those who experienced first-hand the drama of that (19982000) period, will remember the calls for the NDP to do the moral thing and vacate the seat of government.

But even amidst its sustained ‘calling’ for the NDP to do the ‘moral thing’, the ULP understood the political system, the political culture, and knew that it had neither the legal right nor the moral authority to lay claim to government. No amount of bellowing would have made a difference.

So, they resorted to the next ‘best bet’ — civil disobedience, some say civil disorder, made the country ungovernable, and forced the NDP to surrender under terms agreed at a bargaining table.

The rest is history. The extent of the civil disobedience, civil disorder was so widespread and debilitating, that nothing short of military enforcement would have brought it to its knees.

When the NDP did bow, it did so agreeing to another general election (in 2001) which it lost to the ULP. The ULP has not looked back since.

One could argue that the NDP did the ‘moral thing’ by agreeing to elections. Stick a pin!! The agreement came not as a result of quiet persuasion but as a result of extraordinary, vehement action on the streets, by the people.

There was no question of morals; it was a question of one party being forced into submission.

And now the bigger question abounds: Is the NDP prepared to go the way of the streets to further advance its claim to government?

Or, does it still hold out there is something morally inherent in our politics that would eventually lead the ULP to lie down and die?

It would serve both parties well to embrace the profoundness of what Vladimir Lenin had to say, as well as to bear in mind that people’s political stance predict their answers to matters related to morals and because of that, answers are not usually founded on what we would describe as being moral or ethical.

A ray of hope lightens our darkness the sessions. They were the venerable John Horne, Monty WE IN SVG supposedly operate a two-party Maul and Jerry system after the British model which, over George. the past 15 years, has degenerated to a point All seven elected men were tremendous in where it breeds extremism and has content but varied in delivery which, no backthreatened to become dysfunctional to the talking challenges, cross-talk or speakers polity. intervention or P.M shouting about like the The breaking-point has been captured in cock of the walk, were well received and the “losing” party the NDP at the last appreciated. elections crying foul at the results, does not Members of the Dream Team all spoke recognise a ULP Government, and allowed brilliantly and feelingly as usual. But I was itself to be sworn in as an Opposition only to particularly moved by the contribution of the ignore Parliament until the Court has ruled two senators, Jules Ferdinand who displayed on their claim that “ULP stole the a measured maturity guided by biblical Government”, and proper redress has been principles and the warm, exciting speech of made.

Zita Barnwell, NDP only female M.P. for So far, the worst effect of this approach has some time. been that the budgetary proposals were oneForty years ago, 1972, as a member of the sidedly pushed through by “the Government” Educational Forum of the People I offered a in the absence of debate from “the critique of the major parties running Opposition”. government as follows: Lo and behold, the NDP rented privately “In the House, the parties are engaged in a owned “Frenches House” where they veritable life-and-death struggle. There is no presented their views of the budgetary let up with the government setting about its proposals, which they totally condemned and business as if the opposition does not exist. pointed to alternative ways which they For them, this other group of men are mere suggested are dire necessities if this country democratic window dressing: they have is to be saved from going under, by the ornamental values only, and should be seen fruitless antics of the Gonsalves Government. not heard. The Government has tremendous To my relief and joy, one political advantages, for it can wield virtual dictatorial commentator, Stephen Joachim, who is powers, without unduly straining the generally supportive of the ULP, could not constitutional instruments. This is because help but describe the content, direction, and the Westminster model of Government which style of the first half of the session held on we supposedly operate, places very much formal powers in the hands of the ruling the 29th February, as “great”, a far cry from his description of anything featuring Arnhim group; powers which in the metropolitan country are cut down by a sense of restraint, Eustace! a democratic attitude, and the censure of an But the “Cuban cutlass” was opposed by informed and critical public opinion. his “brother of the spear” Bing Joseph, who In St Vincent, on the other hand, the strangely concentrated on whether Arnhim population is polarised as between support for has any right to hold his confab elsewhere the two established groups, and the ruling, other than at the House of Parliament, to motto is: “My party, right or wrong”. This sort which his entire “dream” team has been of attitude filters down from the leadership to sworn elected members thereof.

Disappointedly, especially given the usual infect their mass following with an almost blind fanaticism that in turn, inflates the ego endearing rambunctious style of Bing, he and strengthens the hand of the leaders to do appeared to be grabbing at straws while anything. So, in the House, the Government missing the bigger picture. Arnhim is criticised for “not doing” and for “doing”. The of the day bulldozes everything, riding leader must take the initiative at unexpected roughshod over democratic niceties. The speaker is invariably a party politician, moments of crisis when the time taking a party poll, or other consultation can be fatal. actual or potential who tows the line with gusto. The Council is too small to have And the issue of consultations and Government backbenchers so the ruling party mandates could be grossly overdone, and moves like a well-oiled steamroller crushing stymies swift and urgent action. After all, a member of Parliament is a representative not everything in its way. Questions by the Opposition are sidetracked and evaded, their a delegate. In short, Bert François had the better of the chat, scoring a big Bang against motions struck out, their contributions omitted from the Government radio station.”

Bing!

Over the years we have simply gotten To go back to NDP’s budget, three citizens worst. The NDP government has pledged to of outstanding worth, all of them badinaugurate meaningful change from the seat mouthed by Ralph over the years, adorned of power.

(First published in THE VINCENTIAN of March 04, 2016)

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 7.

Views

No new Prime Minister SO, DR. RALPH GONSALVES will not lead the Unity Labour Party in another election. That much we can accept as fact. What we don’t know is whether he will remain as Prime Minister for this full term.

I want to venture out on a limb and say that Dr. Gonsalves will serve the full term. If he opts out now he will have to name a successor and that at this point in time, will be no easy task.

With his likely successor, his son Camillo Gonsalves — getting such a scare from a first time candidate, he, Camillo, is not standing on secure ground to be name Prime Minister and/or leader of the party. Dr. Gonsalves knows that he can’t take a chance on such a slender victory by his son.

Camillo could well lose in the next election and that would be a quick slap in his father’s face.

Unless Dr. Gonsalves is prepared to bow out of politics all together and turn his safe North Central Windward seat to Camillo, there is no other guarantee that the son could win a seat in the next election. But that will be forcing this dynasty thing on the people and putting added strain on the party to sell it to the people at large.

This could backfire in their face.

The next thing is that with Camillo’s ‘poor’ showing at the recent poll, there might just be others in the party who feel more secure and therefore feel they have as much right to the leadership position as Camillo.

What is certain is that if Dr. Gonsalves gets his way with his son, we will see this playing out as though it was widely discussed in the party, when in fact it would have been something forced down the party membership’s throat.

Whatever, this is no easy term for Dr. Gonsalves both as it relates to the country’s affairs and the affairs of his party.

TH – An East St. George voter

Traitor at the Polls SOME HAVE found the pattern of voting contrary to the opinion polls and are wondering, what accounts for this? The extent and nature of treating and bribery, if any, are yet to be determined.

Whatever the case, many appreciated the love boxes, gifts of lumber, galvanize, cement, money, and temporary jobs. The last-minute transfer of voters, however, is the chief suspect.

Forensic examination of those last transfers from one constituency to another may reveal the truth of the matter and determine the effect, if any, on the outcome of the elections. Ordinary citizens are the best watch dogs in this process. A list of those transferred during the last registration period should be published together with their addresses.

It may not be fair to the people living in a constituency for outsiders to intrude and influence who their representative would be. The elections are over and those visiting voters would have since returned to their legitimate homes.

Undoubtedly, candidates who benefited would appreciate the help received. However, those who aided and abetted this action must be held accountable.

It appears that votes in the NDP strongholds increased while those of the ULP decreased. Were ULP supporters encouraged to move their registration illegally to apparent marginal seats?

This is not rocket science and a determination can be made with proper investigation.

Anthony Stewart, PhD

A matter of Mathematics!

FOLLOWING the recent election, I can agree that the NDP secured the majority of the popular vote. However, I cannot agree that it stands as a spectacular achievement as voiced by the NDP. To my mind it represents nothing more than a mathematical anomaly caused by population density.

If one examines the actual 6 seats that the NDP won, it will be seen that the greater majority of those were based in urban areas with a large voting population density. Therefore, it stands to reason that the larger the population, the more people exercise their vote. Thus the

voting figures (for either party) will always be higher in urban areas of high population than by comparison the lesser populated rural areas. As such this does not reflect “the will of the people” as voiced by the NDP, but merely a mathematical aberration.

Furthermore, I note, from published figures, that the popular vote between the two parties stood at 50.3% against 49.5%. This is a differential of only 0.8%, hardly the resounding victory the NDP claim.

What should be of more concern to both parties, is not the number of people who chose to cast their vote,

but the number of people who did not bother to vote at all (almost 50%).

I assume that this was for one of two reasons: they did not get the time away from their place of employment to be able to cast their vote before the polls closed; alternatively they are so disenchanted with either party that they cannot see the benefit of voting for either of them!

This should be a wake-up call to both parties to improve their status with the overall general public and not just a few weeks before an election.

Furthermore, I suggest that the holiday taken

after the election day be amended; either have a one-day holiday on election day to allow more people to vote without the constraints of their employment or have a 2-day holiday, 1 to vote and 1 to celebrate or commiserate.

A. W. Indupp

Elections in SVG, ‘popular votes’ – facts and figures 1966 WAS THE YEAR when SVLP received 13,930 votes, 50.9% - 4 seats, PPP Sam Slater received 13,427 — 49%.

The leader of SVLP, Mr. Milton Cato, argued that his party had the majority support. The British government official insisted that ‘this is of statistical irrelevance since Mr. Joshua’s PPP won 5 of the 9 seats and that is what matters’. (See St. Vincent Constitution.)

Sam Slater crossed the floor in 1967 to give SVLP a one-seat majority. SVLP won 1967 general elections 6 seats to PPP 3 -SVLP 53.8% and PPP 46.2%.

In 1972, SVLP got

16,108 votes 50.6%, 6 seats and PPP got 14,507 votes, 45.4%, 6 seats.

James Mitchell 1,330 votes 4.2%, 1 seat (Grenadines) and PPP 819 votes and SVLP 171 votes. James Mitchell linked with PPP to form government becoming Premier 1972-1974.

An interesting situation arose when in 1989, SVLP got 30.3% of the votes while NDP got 66.3% winning all 15 seats. No parliamentary opposition for 5 years.

But in 1998, ULP got 54.6% with 7 seats against NDP’s 45.3% with 8 seats. Both parties (Mitchell and Gonsalves) agreed for fresh elections by 2001,

Congrats!!!

after much agitation from ULP. Remember ‘Greed bill, block road, make the country ungovernable’?

Will history repeat itself?

Fast forward to 2020 election: NDP 32,847 votes, 50.3%; ULP 32,356, 49.6%.

Question: Who becomes Prime Minister (PM) after general elections?

“Whenever the Governor General has the occasion to appoint a PM, he shall appoint a representative who appears to him to command the support of the majority of the representatives.”

(Chapter IV: 51(2) SVG Constitution 1979.)

name a black woman — Kamala Harris - as his vice president. This is not just opening the door wider for CONGRATULATIONS are in order black Americans but also for women, for three leaders. especially back women. Could First, I must extend my Kamala Harris be the next president congratulations to our own Dr. Ralph of the USA? Gonsalves on becoming the first And, last but not least. Congrats Prime Minister in the Caribbean to be to Johnny Briceño on becoming elected five times on the trot.

Belize’s next Prime Minister. He and Regardless of what you think of the his Peoples United Party (PUP) put man, he has also led his forces to an end to the 12-year administration victory in five straight elections of Dean Barrow and the United occasions, a feat that was never Democratic Party (UDC). Briceño is before accomplished anywhere in the now the third new Prime Minister/ region. Give the man his due… if he President to join the ranks of Heads wants five stars offer him six. of Government of Caricom countries, Next is Joe Biden. Thanks and this year. I understand that Belize is congrats to Joe Biden for putting an not at all in a good shape. I wish him end to the worst president the USA the best of luck. has ever seen. That man Trump tried Let us hope that these leaders will to undo everything Obama put in do what it takes to lift their people place to serve the all Americans. out of the trying times in which their With that Trump gone the world can countries find themselves. breathe a little easier. And thanks to Joe Biden for being brave enough to Charles, Edinboro

Question: As a Vincentian, are you satisfied with our electoral system, i.e. first past the post in which the party with the most seats wins, or do you prefer some sort of proportional representation in which seats are awarded according to the number of votes each party receives?

By the way, did you know that in the 1966 elections in North Leeward, PPP got 1504 votes against the SLP 1500?

BEM

* Is it true that a Town Board employee has been telling vendors in Kingstown that they will be off the streets after December? * Is SVG heading for an “ISIS” government? * How come the PM saying poverty ain’t rising but he putting more people on “POOR RELIEF”. * Does the PM have anything in store for his losing candidates? Wasn’t it he who said the ULP always takes care of its own?

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8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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Lifting SVG higher - From promise Crisis in governance in SVG to reality (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Address to the nation)

Introduction with promptness, clearly determined to deliver to the people as promised in our manifesto and on the campaign trail. There are major projects to be implemented in this term and challenges to be met and overcome.

The new Minister of Health, Wellness and Environment, the able Hon Jimmy Prince would be extremely busy as he, inter alia, gets action going for the construction of the acute referral hospital, which will be the centre-piece of the brand-new city at Arnos Vale. And the ever-capable Minister, Senator Julian Francis, while dealing with important matters such as Grenadines Affairs will tackle the construction of our US $200 million seaport down at Rose Place.

This project is among those that the ULP has designed to positively transform economic and social life of and in this country.

As a result of this port development the Ministry of Housing, manned by the youthful, talented and energetic Hon. Orando Brewster, is already on the ball making arrangements for the 40-plus families that would be relocated and provided homes in Lowmans Leeward area. Minister Brewster has also taken charge of the government’s on-going amazing housing revolution and its extensive The New Cabinet land reform, both of which are fundamentally people-centred.

The people were invited and came And North Leeward’s gift to the in large numbers to witness on ULP, the intelligent and articulate Tuesday November 10, 2020 the swearing in of their new government, Hon. Carlos James, has approximately 24-months of hotel construction to which took place at the Heritage oversee as our new Tourism Minister.

Square in Kingstown. It was a Oh, and let’s not forget he will beautiful, exciting, and uplifting affair. There was much anticipation as welcome our first direct flights from the United Kingdom by Virgin to what ministries would be assigned Atlantic. Yes, at our international to first-time elected Curtis King, airport built by this government!

Carlos James and Orando Brewster, And there is just so much more. For as well as who would be the new example, one would not be wrong in government senators. And with the claiming that Hon. Saboto Caesar is exit of Sir Louis and Ces Mckie from the immediate-past cabinet, the people carrying out a major agricultural revolution to which he is about to add knew there were going to be new the medicinal cannabis industry, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, and tremendous growth in our export of Tourism, Sports and Culture. fish, and the consolidation of SVG as In the end, Comrade Ralph, a the food basket of the OECS. Yes, all veteran of more than half a century of this and more will lift SVG higher in serious, focused and committed this, the 5th consecutive term of the political activism, and twenty years as ULP. Prime Minister presented his people with a government clearly designed to Conclusion bring the best out of each and every member, with him and his senior The programme of the ULP going colleagues, including our new Deputy forward will continue to be focused on Prime Minister, Hon. Montgomery governance that delivers sustainable Daniel, there to support the new development and a better quality of inductees, when needed. life for our citizens. We will not be The Prime Minister showed distracted from this mission. We are foresight in naming two young, cognizant, that our nation has exciting, intelligent and highly endured a very difficult year at the qualified senators in Ashelle Morgan hands of the Covid-19 pandemic and and Roshard Ballah. And the people other challenges including one of the now have a new junior Minister of worst droughts in decades, and a Foreign Affairs via the appointment of dengue outbreak that ended in the fourth senator, Ms. Keisal Peter, a tragedy for some families, to whom we young lawyer with a decade-long offer sincere and profound experience in private practice. condolences. We know the road ahead Needless to say, the anchor of this is one with many challenges, but this impressive team is the longest servicing democratically elected leader is SVG, where the creed is “What e’er the future brings, our faith will see us anywhere in the world - Comrade through.” This is the creed of the ULP. Ralph!! We will lift SVG higher!!

It is a belief that we have and will continue to manifest in practice, hence The road to higher ground our conviction that we will “Lift SVG The Ministers all began their tasks Higher.”

THE JUST concluded General Elections were extremely competitive, yet again confirming that our democracy though young, is an institution that functions efficaciously even if not absolutely flawless. After all, we live in the realm of humans and not gods. Our electorate displayed political maturity, sense and sensibility in putting the fate of the country ahead of party preference.

Consequently, it returned the Unity Labour Party (ULP) to governance for an unprecedented fifth term with an increase in seats! We salute this wisdom. We are very grateful that the country has again reposed confidence in our stewardship which we shall continue, ever striving to improve, for we shall keep our promise to “Lift SVG higher!”

In keeping with this mantra, we have hit the ground running. PM Gonsalves has appointed a new cabinet brimming with youthful brilliance and energy, while stuffed with experience, demonstrated commitment and ability to guarantee efficiency and effectiveness as we proceed to administer the affairs of our beloved country. This very-well considered mixture is necessary for the future fulfilment of our promise as a nation.

AS LEADER of the New Democratic Party (NDP), the largest political party in SVG, I speak to you solemnly and sincerely about the state of affairs in our beloved country. A crisis in governance exists in our nation following the general elections that were held on November 5th.

You, the people of our nation, spoke during the election. More of you voted for the NDP than voted for the ULP. You gave the popular mandate to the NDP. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, and for your confidence in us. By your vote, you said clearly that you preferred the ideas, the plans and the vision for the country laid out by the NDP. I am immensely proud of the campaign we ran. We put forward the best slate of candidates this country has ever seen. We put forward a plan to grow our economy, to create new jobs and to create economic opportunities for all, but especially for our young people. Our people embraced that message and voted for change, for a better future for themselves and their families.

Sadly, that change has been deferred and the ULP has retained government by being declared winner of more seats than the NDP, for under our Constitution the party with the most seats forms the Government.

However, it is a fundamental and treasured principle of democracy that a Government that does not have the support of a majority of the people lacks a mandate from the people to govern them. It lacks democratic legitimacy.

For anyone to try and explain this away, as Dr. Gonsalves has tried, denies the reality of the argument that the ULP itself made in 1998, when they won the popular vote but the NDP won most of the seats. As they argued then, we assert now that the outcome of the recent elections means that those in government now have lost the moral authority to govern. This creates a crisis of governance in our nation that will only be resolved when the people are again governed by a government that has the support of a majority of the people. For now, let us look briefly at the numbers.

In 2020 as in 2015, just under 66,000 people voted in the general elections. In the recent elections, the NDP secured swings towards us in 13 of the 15 constituencies, right across the nation. Even in Dr. Gonsalves’ constituency of North Central Windward, he lost votes in every single polling station, including his hometown of Colonaire where there was a swing of over 4% in favour of the NDP. He lost those votes to a vibrant young man, Chieftain Neptune, who because of the COVID19 pandemic only had a few weeks on the ground before the vote.

Also, the ULP’s heir apparent, Camillo Gonsalves, suffered a massive rebuke in ESG, where first-time NDP candidate, Lavern Gibson Velox, made up 421 votes, to cut the 2015 lead from 607 votes to just 196 now. A swing of nearly 4 percent towards the NDP. In South Windward, the swing to NDP was even greater, 6.5%, and Noel

Dickson reduced the ULP lead from 759 in 2015 to just 217 now. In North Windward, our first-time candidate Shevern John performed brilliantly against enormous odds, in reducing the ULP lead from 323 in 2015 to just 62 now.

In our politics, these are remarkable achievements. It shows a fundamental realignment of our politics has occurred and augurs well for the movement to bring about change led by NDP. We thank you the people for the tremendous confidence and support given to our team and for voting for change. But, we must finish the job.

The declared results show that after four terms in government, the ULP clings on to power precariously, having eked out severely reduced majorities in 7 of their 9 nine seats, with the slimmest of margins in North Leeward–a single vote. Never let anyone tell you that your vote does not matter. Never tell anyone likewise.

Never let anyone bargain or sell their vote to anyone because the future of the nation can literally hang on a single vote.

Of the seven seats that we held before the elections, the NDP retained six notwithstanding the fact that we secured 32,887 votes, which is 496 more than the ULP and 1,860 more than we got in 2015.

There is popular outpouring of frustration and dissatisfaction with the ULP and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

The people’s desire for change was heightened during the election campaign; Change from the oppressiveness which is being experienced as a result of the past nineteen years of rule under Gonsalves and the ULP. We heard that call and will, with increased vigour and determination, work to bring about the change we need and that you voted for. Political change, that is change in government has been deferred, but it will not be indefinitely denied.

Meanwhile, we will spare no effort to bring about the necessary economic and social improvements we offered the people during the campaign and now continue to hold out as the path to a brighter future.

The underlying condition driving the desire for change, is the fact that our people have been left in no doubt that the Gonsalves administration has become increasingly notorious for its subversion of constitutional government and the democratic process in our country. And this is compounded by blatant nepotism and cronyism, and by the lack of transparency and lack of accountability in the conduct of our nation’s affairs.

Most damning for the government and painful for our people is the widespread incidence of social and economic decay that is seen in the high unemployment rate, especially among our youth, poor health care services and rising crime. It is seen very clearly also in increasing poverty among our people.

V Competence and Character

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 9.

Views

“We have a system which, though far from perfect, is strong with idealism.

It gives elbow room for men of all races and all beliefs. It is vital and dynamic. And it works. We have the means of shaping the world in our pattern. If we do, freedom will be assured for all men. The decision is in the hands of this generation. It is a challenge to our political competence. For Western civilization it is the greatest challenge of all time.” - William Orville Douglas (1898–1980) US Supreme Court Associate Justice, 1935-75, Professor of Law at Yale WE PAUSE TO PEER into the future ever determined to select political leaders who will consider what is best for our country (as opposed to what is best for themselves). In the private sector, the hope is that leaders and managers will be more focused on what is best for the enterprise rather than how much they can accumulate for themselves. We expect that the leaders in business, government, and society will be prepared to make hard decisions in the interest of national, corporate, and communal good. Such decisions require persons who exhibit competence and character.

Jomo Thomas had invited me to participate in an evening call-in-radioprogramme that he was hosting on WE FM 99.9 over a decade ago. He was particularly interested in having me share some of my views/insights on education and agriculture. I was honoured and happy to do so. Larry Bascombe (now deceased) telephoned and commented positively about what I had shared. He was especially pleased in relation to my positive outlook on the subject matter. He further prompted me to consider “running for political office”. I deflected his comment and indicated that partisan politics did not excite me and that I felt that I could contribute to national development in other ways. I proceeded to indicate that if I entered the political arena and won a seat I would anticipate serving one term since my focus will be on meeting the needs of all constituents (including those that did not vote for me). Larry was excited by this response. He commented that “This is exactly the kind of politician that we need.” I was humbled and encouraged by his comments and his enthusiastic responses as we chatted.

He then went on to share some of his views in relation to the kind of politician that was needed in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He asserted that our country (and the wider region) needed a new breed of politicians; individuals who would be prepared to put national interest ahead of individual gains; persons of character who will not necessarily gravitate to meeting the needs of their party supporters but focused on the needs and interests of all constituents (supporters and opposition). A most interesting discussion ensued as some callers expressed the views that individuals who hold public office play a major role in influencing their supporters for good or for evil; they can create healing and reconciliation or they can fuel animosity and hatred.

Our reflections and discourse that

Opposition Blues ‘The class struggle created circumstances and relationships that made it possible for a grotesque mediocrity to play a hero's part.’ Karl Marx, The Eighteenth Brumaire

night confirmed that the character of our leaders can make such a significant difference in relation to the harmony (or disharmony) that will permeate our societies. In this regard, such values and attitudes can be considered more important than popularity, skill, and competence. It takes character and strong commitment to lead individuals along the “moral high road” and to encourage decency and tolerance even among those who would periodically express different political views.

Politicians (or aspiring politicians) should commit to visiting the homes in their respective constituencies.

Such visits provide useful insights into the needs and ambitions of the residents. And while efforts will be made to garner support for their particular political party the motive should not to be sorely to “talk politics” … but to “talk about people improvement”. In poor communities, it is considered such a great privilege to be able to give hope to many of the residents and to encourage them to engage in backyard gardening and other means of generating revenue.

Our leaders should seek to encourage individuals to eat what they grow and grow what they eat. Such conversations and initiatives should be encouraged regardless of which political party they support, their religious beliefs, gender, sexual preferences, and so on. The focus must forever be on people improvement. As good as they may be they can do better.

Some readers may argue that the foregoing describes “unreasonable expectations”; that politics (especially within the region) is divisive and that it is often the most aggressive and illspeaking politicians who incite the masses and secure their votes.

However, many examples abound of politicians throughout the region who have remained clear of “gutter politics” and stayed untainted after several years in active politics.

However, competence and character have always been at the bedrock of those who tread the political waters and remained untainted by the negative attitudes and behaviours that have become the hallmark of many; individuals who do not become intoxicated with power or massage their egos by displaying arrogance or succumbing to corruption. These individuals encourage transparency and accountability. They advocate for integrity legislation and are ready to be among the first to demand good governance. They are often well aware of the fact that their relative success will not be limited to their popularity or their levels of competence in the particular field.

Competence may open the door to their success but character is what is often required to keep them focused and grounded to be faithful servants of the people.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com

FIVE IN A ROW. The New Democratic Party (NDP) has spent an entire generation in opposition and the party’s leadership still don’t get it. When you are on a winning streak it is easier to keep on winning. A losing streak? Well, you have to find a way to breakthrough. Sadly, the NDP appears not to have a clue. In the aftermath of a 5th consecutive defeat, Dr Friday, vice presidents Major Leacock and Patel Mathews and Kay Bacchus-Baptiste sound like a bunch of grumpy old...

Even though the ULP lost the popular vote, it won an additional seat to go into the new parliament with a 9 to 6 lead. All things considered, this feat is nothing to frown on. The ULP was vying for a historic 5 term.

The plain truth is that the NDP failed to deliver yet again. Going forward, the party needs to engage in collective introspection. It must completely recalibrate its plans, programs and presence if it intends to remain relevant. Losing streaks are hard to break. The popular vote triumph by the opposition may lull it into a state of confident complacency, only to be slammed again with yeah...6 defeats in a row.

The signs are not promising for a much-improved opposition ready to engage policy centred debate. Here’s why: Following elections, opposition leader Dr Friday told the nation: ‘As they argued then, we assert now that the outcome of the recent elections means that those in government now have lost the moral authority to govern.

This creates a crisis of governance in our nation that will only be resolved when the people are again governed by a government that has the support of a majority of the people...It is a fundamental and treasured principle of democracy that a government that does not have the support of the majority of the people lacks a mandate from the people to govern them. It lacks democratic legitimacy.’

Where did Dr Friday get this cockeyed view of our system of parliamentary democracy? From the same Dr Ralph Gonsalves whom he tried to replace as prime minister in the November 5 elections.

In 1998, the NDP led by James Mitchell won the elections 8 to 7.

Gonsalves, deputy leader of the ULP declared ‘All reasonable people of democratic temper and spirit recognize that a truly functioning democracy demands that consent of the governed, that is the consent of real flesh and blood voters be obtained. Fifty five percent of our voters have stated unequivocally that they do not want to be ruled by the NDP. The NDP slender one-seat majority may, in a narrow legal sense be legal, but it lacks popular legitimacy and moral authority.’

Our constitution allows for a first pass the post system of elections. It is this system which allows Tourism and Culture minister Carlos James to sit in the parliament as an elected parliamentarian. He won by 1 vote. It is the same system that allowed the NDP to maintain a government in 1998. The popular vote does not determine which party will govern. The party that wins 8 or more seats secures the right to govern.

For Friday to invoke Gonsalves

words 22 years after they were first uttered is clear evidence that opposition leaders continuously look to Gonsalves for talking points and legitimacy. When the NDP’s 4th term was cut short in 2001 following mass protest, the opposition blamed Gonsalves and scornfully dubbed the popular protest of 2000 a ‘Road Block Revolution.’

Throughout the last 20 years, the opposition has tried time and again to replicate those protest with the hope it will bring down the ULP government.

All such efforts failed because the opposition improperly concluded that if Gonsalves did it successfully, we could too. In a misplaced act of monkey see, monkey do, it failed to appreciate the fact that then the people were unprepared to be ruled in the old way.

That determination, coupled with the errors of the NDP government created the conditions that led to the turmoil and eventual removal of the government in 2001.

The whining analysis about why they lost the 2020 elections is not surprising but appallingly annoying.

Defeated parties tend to mourn rather than engaging in the necessary high quality organization.

Major Leacock said raw cash made the difference in the turnout at the 2020 general election. ‘It is amazing that people can sell their vote and their freedom and their future...So I am not laying blame that we are not in government today at the feet of the NDP. It is the people’s will that they are willing to spend the next five years waiting on a handout.’

Seriously! You failed to convince a sufficient amount of people to vote for you.

Patel Mathews said along with ‘bribery people were threatened that if they voted a particular way, their elderly relatives would be taken off public assistance.’

Do these men listen to themselves?

If more people wanted to vote for Mathews, they would have done so in much the same way 2,270 persons did.

The vote is secret. The intimidation claim is similar to that made by the ULP in 1998 when it lost 8 to 7.

Kay Bacchus-Baptiste laced into the National Monitoring and Consultative Mechanism for declaring the elections ‘Free and fair.’ Bacchus-Baptiste said ‘it annoyed me because we all live in St Vincent...there can be no gainsaying that millions of dollars were spent in most of the constituencies as bribery. It makes no sense purporting to be fair minded and at the end issue a report that does not reflect reality.’

The problem for for the opposition is that it told the people to eat them out, drink them out and vote them out.

More importantly, the opposition offers the false narrative that it was only the governing party that doled out give aways.

The problem for the opposition is that it told the people to eat them out, drink them out and vote them out.

More importantly, the opposition offers the false narrative that it was only the governing party that doled out giveaways. LP had a monopoly.

With the sub-par quality of our political class, SVG ain’t going any place fast.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

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10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 not acceptable ACCORDING to the Leader of SVG Green Party, Vincentian-Born Retired British Royal Air Force Engineer Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002” could never be accepted, because it is in breach of Section 13 of the SVG 1979 Constitution.

More importantly, there is no net benefit to SVG when the ‘Migrants’ to that Grenadine Island get special treatment of exemption from certain taxes and customs duty. On the other hand, the black, poor and powerless indigenous population is forced to pay taxes and customs duty. The ‘migrants’ want to operate like parasites, sucking the blood of the Indigenous black population, and live in segregated properties.

These ‘Migrants’ are not handcuffed to SVG. If the ‘Migrants’ in Mustique and Canouan do not want to pay taxes and customs duty to the SVG Treasury, then they should pack their bags and go back to where they came from.

Singapore is a World Bank success story with one of the highest standards of living in the world. Singapore is a highly multi-racial society; there are no Enclaves in Singapore. Why do we have Enclaves in Mustique in this day and age, dictating to the black, poor and powerless indigenous population that they will not pay taxes and customs duty?

The fundamental public policies guiding Singapore’s social and economic growth are based on free, high quality education from Pre-School to Singapore

Science and Technology Universities, driving a knowledge-based economy coupled with intelligent monetary and fiscal policies.

After forty one years of independence, SVG has not been able to create one year of fiscal surplus. This is mind-boggling. Why in the name of prosperity do we still cling to White Enclaves in Mustique?

The writing is on the wall for the Mustique Act No 48 of 2002. It will be abolished. We live in an age of equality and human rights. The black, poor and powerless Indigenous population in SVG must not be made subordinate to the ‘Migrants’ in Mustique and Canouan.

They managed to pull down the stupid Berlin Wall in Germany.

Equally so, the stupid Mustique Act No 48 of 2002 in SVG must be pulled down to give way to equality and Human Rights.

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA who was awarded the British Royal Air Force “MERITORIUS SERVICE MEDAL IN 1985” in recognition of his Exemplary Conduct, High Personal Standards and Professional Expertise, very strongly contends that we must protect and preserve our country for the next generations of Vincentians, and not be swamped by ‘Migrants’.

It is very greedy and heartless that the super-rich, ‘Migrants’ in Mustique and Canouan happily watch Vincentian children’s education suffer and still continue not paying tax and customs

duty. These people truly have no soul and do not care. As long as they can make millions in profit and live an extravagant, wealthy lifestyle, they are happy. They have absolutely no care whatsoever about the education of Vincentian children.

One day we will see the departure of the white migrant Parasites of Mustique and Canouan and a fiscal

surplus in the SVG Treasury. This will help our country move forward.

Editor’s Note: While in upholding the principle of freedom of expression we have carried Mr. Ivan O’Neal’s thoughts as he has submitted them, we must draw his attention, especially as it relates to support for education by the Mustique house owners and investors, to the role of the Mustique Charitable Foundation /Mustique Charitable Trust.

The People of North Leeward have spoken AFTER DECADES of neglect and misrepresentation from administration after administration, the people of North Leeward reached a boiling point and exploded with discontent and resentment for politicians.

This was made manifest by the fact that many of them stayed away from the recent poll — refusing to vote for egotistical, vainglorious politicians.

The people, often classified as backward, had had enough of the chicanery, and baseless promises made every 5 years, and said to the con-artist politician that the time was long overdue for them to make good on the promises.

Therefore, our so-called honorable politicians should know that the people in this part of the country are not as gullible as those of yesteryear.

They have come of age and realize that politics is based on conflict of interest, deception, manipulation and wickedness unleashed by our ‘learned men’, to divide and rule the masses.

November 5, 2020 was testimony that the people of North Leeward are awakening and coming to their senses.

leaves the greater proportion of youth idle, begging for alms; dilapidated and abandoned homes abound from Spring Village to Chateaubelair.

Worse, in North Leeward there isn’t any market for the struggling farmers of North Leeward. They toil from sunup to sundown and live from hand to mouth. If it wasn’t for ganja, it’s anybody’s guess how they would have survived. Luckily, some of these people have folks abroad to send remittances to them every mouth, and a barrel ever so often to help them out with their daily needs.

What the people need

What the people need is good representation. They don’t need politicians who bribe them every political end of term with a couple dollars and handouts; that is very degrading! What this shows is that politicians are perpetuating the same methods as the European en-slavers who saw black people as cheap commodities. In this age of enlightenment I expect better than that from our noble leaders.

What the people need are leaders: Seeing through the deception who can identify opportunities for jobs to lift them out of poverty; to show Not so long ago I was in them alternatives, how to be better Chateaubeliar to visit a relative. That humans; who can guide them out of said day the ULP was having a bondage and ignorance; to tell them they have wit and intelligent to meeting. I overheard two women achieve the things that seem saying they had ‘no time with impossible to reach. politicians because all they are doing What the people need are liberators is dividing the people, setting then up to fight like cats and dogs. But after to set them free from the baggage and hangovers of slavery. the election, the same politician — As a student of the most honorable NDP and ULP - go back to knock warrior Marcus Mosiah Garvey, it is glass’ together.’ humiliating and degrading to me that As the songster said, ‘Who feels it politicians are still using the same knows it.’ You can ride and abuse a kind of bull-crap to seduce the people jackass but one day he would knock for their votes. This is not too far from you off his back.

Politicians must know people won’t a picture that the politicians are pimps and the people are hookers. remain foolish all the days of their God forbid, our people deserve better lives; that they will not tolerate their than that! scheming and deceptive ways. People I reiterate, gone are the days when have the innate intelligence to know the people can be taken for granted. when they are ill-treated, used and The people of North Leeward vented abused by an oppressive regime. their frustration by staying away from The message that the people are sending is that they rather suffer than the polling booths. These people who were called backward and ignorant to support a fraudster politician finally realized those polling booths Yellow Party or the never ready Red Party - who doesn’t have their interest are death traps. They are waking up to realizing that politicians are rats! at heart.

And yes, the people are finally In this part of the country, people realizing that, ‘A promise is a comfort are suffering and the politicians don’t to a fool.’ seem give a damn about who lives or dies! High rate of unemployment Carden A. Michael

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 11.

Community

Choppins gets a hardcourt

Camillo Gonsalves addressing the opening ceremony during which he traced the path that led to the eventual hardcourt.

CHOPPINS, a community located on the outskirts of Calliaqua, now has its own hardcourt.

The hardcourt was officially opened on Tuesday 3rd November, a mere two days before the general election.

Camillo Gonsalves, Parliamentary Representative for East St. George, the constituency in which Choppins is located, addressing the opening ceremony, described the hardcourt and multipurpose facility as the best in the entire state.

He assured that residents will have a say in the running of the facility.

Gonsalves gloated over the

Looking down on a pristine hardcourt in Choppins. fact that the facility was large and set up to cater to all the major ‘hardcourt sports’ like basketball, volleyball, tennis and netball. It boasts changing and washrooms, and is fully lit. In addition, it can seat hundreds of spectators.

The National Lotteries Authority (NLA), which funded the construction of the facility, came in for recognition

by Gonsalves, who declared that it has been fulfilling its mandate to support and develop sports and culture in St. Vincent and the

Grenadines.

And Gonsalves traced the efforts that eventually resulted in the hardcourt.

He recalled making efforts to acquire lands and funding for a full-fledged playing field, as originally requested by the Choppins youth. Challenges regarding getting land, the estimated cost of site preparation given the sloping land, and the construction cost including all the related amenities, were so substantially high, that that idea had to be set aside.

He said that as an alternative, he promised the Choppins youth the best hardcourt facility to be built in SVG, which he was declaring open today, November 3, 2020.

Pointing to a structure/room below the hardcourt, the MP said it was open for use by the community, and disclosed that he was in discussion with a private sector entire to have it air conditioned.

“So the entire community will be able to use it, if it’s a preschool, if it’s for classes, if it’s a social (L-R): Murray Bullock, Chairman of the NLA, and Camillo Gonsalves, activity,” he noted.

MP for East St. George, remove the curtain to declare the facility Chairman of the open.

The changing and washroom facility.

National Lotteries Authority (NLA), Murray Bullock also spoke at the opening.

He affirmed that the hardcourt was the best multipurpose facility in the country and he looked forward to the youth from the community making maximum use of it.

Turning to the NLA, Bullock posited that the organization has grown tremendously since the ULP administration took power.

According to Bullock, by the end of July 2020 the number of workers with the NLA stood at over 120, with an agent

base well over 120, and sales of over $80 million.

Remarks were also made by former MP for the constituency — Clayton Burgin.

Prior to the opening of the one in Choppins, there were sport facility openings in Sans Souci (hardcourt) and Rose Hall (playing field), and a ground-breaking ceremony for a hardcourt in Lowmans Leeward. (KH)

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12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

TWO VINCENTIANS FOR UWI HONORARY DOCTORATES

THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES (The UWI) will award 14 honorary doctorates at its 2020 graduation ceremonies, scheduled to take place from January 11—16, 2021 in a mix of blended, virtual formats, that, according to a release from The UWI, “... will celebrate a graduating class of

approximately 8500 students across the region..

Among the recipients are two distinguished St. Vincent and the Grenadines nationals.

The two are Franklyn Mc Intosh, who will be conferred a Doctor of Letters (DLitt) degree from The UWI Open Campus for his work as a

musician, composer, and arranger; and Professor Edgar Julian Duncan, who will received a Doctor of Science (DSc) from the St. Augustine Campus for contributions to Caribbean Science and Agriculture.

In congratulating the outstanding sons of the soil, we are pleased to present the following profiles.

Dr. Edgar Julian Duncan PROFESSOR EDGAR JULIAN DUNCAN, grandson of renowned historian and politician Ebenezer Duncan, is best known for his ground-breaking work at The UWI St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago campus.

There he pioneered work in plant biotechnology as he led a quest to engineer superior and non-traditional planting methods.

He established the Biotechnology Laboratory to ensure training, research and development in tissue culture and plant genetic engineering.

In 1996, he introduced Plant Tissue Culture as a discipline at the UWI St. Augustine Campus.

Professor Duncan was born in Kingstown St. Vincent and the Grenadines December 9, 1933.

After a successful course of study at the St. Vincent Boys Grammar School,

Dr. Edgar Julian Duncan will received an Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc).

now the St. Vincent Grammar School, he enrolled at the St. Augustine Campus with sharpened interests in Geography and English Language. There being no provisions for Geography, Duncan switched to his next preferred field, Botany.

He received the Sir James Irvine Memorial Scholarship in 1960 that took him to the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, where he pursued graduate studies, eventually obtaining a PhD in Fungal Cytology and Genetics.

That formed the platform for a career as a lecturer which spanned at least 35 years, most of it The UWI, St. Augustine Campus.

His students and colleagues commend him for his patience and humility in their dealings with him. His style was described as unique, for he insisted that students not just read, but think.

His lectures were meticulously organised, according to a former student, and there was a consistency about his attendance and punctuality. In addition, Duncan had a knack of reading expressions and would repeat for the benefits of a confused student.

The Honorary Doctorate to be conferred on Professor Duncan in January 2021, follows on The UWI Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and Administration in 1994; and the Lifetime Achievement Award in Agriculture for his pioneering contribution to of Plant Tissue Culture Research and Development, from the National Institute of Education Research, Science and Technology (NIHERST) in 2002.

To no one’s surprise, Professor Duncan attained the position of Head of Department of Life Sciences and Deputy Dean for Post Graduate Studies and Research in the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, at the St. Augustine campus.

In 1999 he was named Professor Emeritus at The UWI and to date continues to mentor researchers, teachers and students.

Now retired, Professor Duncan resides with his wife and children in his adopted land of Trinidad and Tobago. (WKA)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 13.

News

Franklyn ÂFrankieÊ Mc Intosh

FRANKLYN ‘FRANKIE’ MC INTOSH is a member of what could be considered St. Vincent and the Grenadines first family of Music.

Musicians among the Mc Intosh family span the better part of 12 decades and the generations therein.

‘Frankie’ began formal music lessons at age nine. One year later he was in the band Melotones, led by his father Arthur McIntosh.

After graduating from the St. Vincent Grammar School, he taught at the Intermediate High School. All during that time he developed his skills as a keyboardist and did such duties for bands like ‘Blue Rhythm’ and ‘Symphonets’.

The music bee continued to buzz in his head, and in 1968 he moved to Antigua where he would earn five times what he was earning as a teacher in St. Vincent. While there, he taught and played music for three years before migrating to New York.

In New York, even as he played keyboard with Caribbean Jazz ensembles and American R&B groups, he made the time to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Brooklyn College and a Masters from the New York University.

But it was his connection with Vincentian calypsonian Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus in 1976 that exposed ‘Frankie’s’ musical genius. Becket tells the story of him going to Frankie to “tighten up” some songs for a Manhattan boat-ride.

The rest simply unfolded into one of the more treasured and productive relationships in Caribbean music.

‘Frankie’ has featured on every recording Becket has done since 1976/77.

This relationship caught the ears of a leading producer, Vincentian Granville Straker, who, in 1978, contracted ‘Frankie’ to work as musical director and studio arranger for a number of Vincentian, Trinidadian and other Caribbean calypsonians, who were already signed to his Straker’s Records label.

Among those were Vincentians Winston Soso, Cyril ‘Scorcher’ Thomas, Walter Porter, Ephraim ‘Tommy T’ Thompson, Reginald ‘Professor’ Cornwall, and Kenneth ‘Vibrating Scakes’ Alleyne; and Trinidadians Slinger ‘Sparrow’ Francisco, Hollis ‘Chalkdust’ Liverpool, Kelvin ‘Mighty Duke’ Pope, Winston ‘Shadow’ Bailey, and Robert ‘Lord Nelson,’ Nelson.

His work also extended to top calypsonians in Antigua, Barbados, Grenada and St. Lucia. In fact, it is believed that ‘Frankie’ would have worked with recording/performing

artistes from every English-speaking Caribbean island.

In all, it is estimated that he would have arranged some 2.500 calypsoes to date.

Many among those might have been lesser known calypsonians, but ‘Frankie’s’ work with them is said to have catapulted some to varying level of success.

And as he prepares to enter the learned halls of The UWI, ‘Frankie’ takes with him: a 2013 honour by the Naniki Caribbean Jazz Safari; a ‘Symbolic Doctorate Degree’ 2014 award from the Association of Writers of SVG; a Sunshine Award Hall of Fame induction and recognition by the Borough of Brooklyn, the City of New York and the United States Congress — House of Representatives, both in 2015.

From calypso to gospel, reggae, jazz, Franklyn Mc Intosh has worked his magic with music that will transcend the test of time. (WKA)

Franklyn Mc Intosh will received an honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt).

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14. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Entertainment

Â2-KoolÊ, MaggieÊs and Jackson Bay which he co-anchors, and surgically delivers the antidote in song.

THIS PIECE was written during the early And yet, responsible citizens — the hours (fore-day morning) of Sunday 15th elite of society - often wonder why November, 2020, as the legendary DJ young people gravitate to Christopher ‘2 Kool Kris’ Jones was on entertainment events, even in the face his TENTH “last song for the night” at of economic constraints and especially Maggie’s Hideaway, located at one of the now with the threat of Covid-19. entrances to Jackson Bay, Layou.

The explanation could well be found Bob Marley’s lyrics in Trenchtown in something the late John Horne, Rock, inter alia, “One good thing about Minister of Culture, would have said: music, when it hits you, you feel no “Entertainment is vital to our pain…,” would explain the size of the existence.” crowd at Maggie’s for a Saturday But back to ‘2 Kool Kris’. Another evening of entertainment that had one of his “final songs” was Dexta crossed into 5:21am on a Sunday.

Dapps’ ‘Call me if” (the edited version), What is it about ‘2 Kool Kris’ that is which seemed to suggest he was ready so magnetic? Why is he so popular? to leave.

In my opinion the answer to both can The lyrics on that Dancehall smash be summed up by a simple refrain: He hit are highly suggestive and cannot delivers!!!! be published by this establishment.

While it would seem some DJs do However, a quick search on YouTube their utmost best to imitate their will reveal over 3.5 MILLION VIEWS. favorite Dancehall DJs, Christopher As much as to say, 2 Kool Kris delivers Jones is simply being himself. what the people want.

It’s like he carefully takes notes of the complaints of the callers to Hot 97s Maggie and the aftermath AM Mayhem morning programme,

by CARLYLE DOUGLAS

Maggie’s Hideaway is a very popular entertainment venue. It attracts patrons from all over mainland St. Vincent, as evidenced by the line of parked vehicles on the weekends, stretching from Velox Corner in two directions on the main road through Layou.

This writer took his usual early morning walk to Jackson Bay after ‘2 Kool Kris’ had apparently departed Layou, and was 2 Kool Kris is not just different, he makes a pleasantly surprised to note difference. that proprietor Maggie Dopwell and others, he is finished. She even confessed to including ‘Helicopter’ a well-known having taken time out of the kitchen to Layou participant in Maggie’s “shake a leg.”

Karaoke sessions, had finished the Articles of clothing left on the beach clean-up process at the Jackson Bay and a young couple in the vicinity beach. suggested patrons had a ‘grand time’.

In an interview with the proprietor Entertainment has, and always will Maggie Dopwell, she too admitted how have the power of suggestion, amazed she was with ‘2 Kool’. How he therefore, if you have any suggestions was able to convert his talent into good for V Entertainment, please send business as people seldom leave before email to: Production.ctview@gmail.com

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 15.

Tribute

Prominent Vincy pastor passes head master.

Tributes “It was also the age when I met my mother Vincentian lawyer for the first time,” he THE REV. ALWYN HASLET Curlina Hills, formerly wrote.

THEODORE CRAIGG, a Edwards, an evangelist In 1953, he left the prominent Vincentian-born Lowmans Anglican pastor in Brooklyn, New School and returned to York, who, with his the Belair Government compatriot wife, Cordelia, School, where he co-founded the Abundant received his School Life Christian Church, an Leaving Certificate. evangelical church on Rev. Craigg wrote that Church Avenue in while he did not like Brooklyn, in the heart of teaching at the time, it the Caribbean community, was “one of the better died on Oct. 30. He was jobs in those days.”

83.

In 1956, he left Rev. Craigg died at teaching and worked for SUNY Downstate two years with the Medical Center and country’s Sanitation University Hospital of Department, “spraying Brooklyn after a long mosquitoes.” battle with leukemia, his Two years later, he relatives and enlisted in the RSVG parishioners said.

Police Force (RSVGPF) A funeral service was received his six-month held at Abundant Life police training at the Christian Church on Regional Police Training Friday, Nov. 13. He body Center in Barbados, and was cremated the next worked in various day. departments in the Rev. Craigg — a former RSVGPF, including chaplain for both the being assigned as drive Brooklyn-based St. to the Administrator.

Vincent Progressive He resigned from the Organization of New force in 1963.

York (SPOONY), the Thereafter he became New York arm of the immersed in church main opposition New activities at the Arnos Democratic Party (NDP) Vale Methodist Church, in St. Vincent and the inclusive of being a lay Grenadines, and the preacher.

Brooklyn-based Girls High School Alumni The New York years Association of New York — was also an erstwhile On migrating to New Methodist Local York, on Aug. 6, 1967, Preacher, school teacher Rev. Craigg wrote that and police officer in his he began working, eight native St. Vincent and days later, at the Long the Grenadines.

Island College Hospital in Brooklyn, where he The St. Vincent years remained for 23 years until his resignation.

In an autobiography, In 1968, he became a written several years member of the Trinity before this death, Rev. CME Church in Craigg wrote that he was Brooklyn. born on Jul. 13, 1937 to On Aug. 2, 1969, he Constance Craigg and returned to St. Vincent Cecil King at Evesham and the Grenadines and Vale, Marriaqua. married Cordelia “Being a twin, my Greaves. sister went to live with He was ordained a our father, and I minister in 1974 and, a remained with our year later, co-founded grandmother and aunt,” the Emmaus Christian he wrote and received his Community Church, on education at the Church Avenue, Evesham Methodist Brooklyn, serving as School. pastor from 1991 to At 15, he was taken by 1993. He and his wife his father to teach at the would later start the Lowmans Anglican Abundant Life Christian School, where he was the Church,”

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

at Abundant Life Christian Church, told Continued on Page 17.

THE VINCENTIAN on Monday that Rev. Craigg Rev. Alwyn Haslet was her “friend, mentor Theodore Craigg (1937 and pastor… a – 2020)

16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 17.

News

COVID-19 cases climbing ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES on Thursday, November 19, recorded one (1) new COVID-19 case. The new case was said to be a returning national who arrived with a negative RTPCR test result from Canada on Thursday November 12, 2020 on Air Canada AC980, and tested negative on entry screening and on day five (5) testing.

However repeat testing on day seven (7), due to assessed increased individual risk, was positive. The adult was in mandatory quarantine and will be isolated until cleared by two negative tests.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has now recorded a total of eighty-four (84) COVID- 19 cases, seventy-seven (78) of which have recovered. There are now six (6) active COVID-19 cases, all imported from countries categorized as “High Risk” On Tuesday, the authorities reported that the total number of reported/recorded COVID-19 cases was eighty-three (83, seventy-seven (77) of which have recovered. At that time, there were six (6) active COVID19 cases, all imported from countries categorized as “High Risk”.

But a figure released last Tuesday had shown a significant increase of five cases over the previous disclosure.

Those five cases were accounted for by four (4) returning nationals who arrived with negative RT-PCR test results from Canada on Thursday November 12, 2020, on Air Canada AC980.

Subsequent tests showed them to be positive and while two were ordered to self-isolate, the remaining two were ordered to go into mandatory quarantine.

The fifth (5) case was a nonnational who traveled from the USA via Barbados on Saturday November 14 with a negative RT-PCR result.

The adult will remain in isolation until cleared by two negative tests.

Prominent Vincy pastor passes Continued from Page 15. fragmented state of the Vincentian community in father to me …… one of New York at the time, the humblest men and and invited me to join pastors I have ever met.” them in working to Kingsley Layne, a change that.” former St. Vincent and The effort led to the the Grenadines formation of the Council Ambassador to the of St. Vincent and the United Nations, United Grenadines States and the Organizations, USA, Inc. Organization of (COSAGO), as the American States, umbrella body for described Rev. Craigg as cooperation among all “a veritable pillar of the Vincentian groups in the Vincentian community in the New York conglomerate area.”

Layne recalled that at his first St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Independence Anniversary Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving in New York, in October 1990, Rev. Craigg, the Rev. Dr. Glyger Beach and Stanley Browne held, with him, an informal, introductory meeting, during which they “lamented the

country.

Besides his wife, Cordelia, Rev. Craigg is survived by their daughter, Natalie; two sons, Brian and Dondrub, from a previous relationship; sister Narissa Morris, a Vincentian lawyer in Queens; four brothers, Cuthbert, Eldon, Lennox and Dennis; three grandchildren and other relatives and friends.

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18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

My wife, her ex and a child Dear George, MY WIFE usually gets home at around 5 pm from work. This day in question she got home after 10 pm. Unknown to her I had received information that her car was parked in the driveway of the her ex, her child’s father.

When I asked for an explanation she said her ex called to say that their daughter was very ill and he needed her help, and that she could call me because her phone went dead.

George, in addition to this lie, her hair was all rumbled and she was smelling of a strange cologne when she arrived home.

The next day she forgot her phone at home and I read a message that came through from her ex, saying he was expecting her again later that day.

I have not confronted her since. I do not know which way to go. I can wait until she goes back there and deal with them both or I can just deal with her one on one.

I need your advice.

Hurt bad Dear Hurt bad, It is usually better not to act based on your emotions. At this point you are drowning in your emotions and need to get to a place where you can breathe and think clearly.

Let her know what you know and give her a chance to explain WHY. From your submission the pieces do not fit and you have every right to get an honest explanation as to why she chose to be a night nurse beyond the call of duty.

I strongly suggest both of you go see a professional counselor to assist you in getting to that place where you are emotionally balanced enough to act responsibly.

George

A same sex experience

I demanded an explanation only to hear I CAUGHT my girlfriend her begging me to join her, telling me it is every in the act of messing with the same sex and it man’s dream to have more than one woman in was her reaction that bed. I bluntly refused shocked me most of all. and asked her to pack I had to return home to pick up my keys. As I her things and leave with her lovers. got inside the house I That was two weeks heard sexual noises ago and although I am coming from my very hurt, I have no bedroom. I was regret taking the action I expecting my girlfriend took. I am asking all to be in there with another man but got the men to keep a close eye on their women because shock of my life to find her in the middle of two it seems SVG is infested other girls, stark naked. with lots of women who are swinging the other

Dear George,

way.

Lesson learned Dear Lesson learned, It is obvious your girlfriend did not know you as well as she thought she did. Kudos to you for standing up for principle.

You have the right to choose your own path, the very same way she has a right to choose hers.

George

Honesty the best policy boss told him that it was my pleading on his behalf that saved him from certain jail.

I CAUGHT a fellow co-worker The situation is still bothering me stealing money from the company and and I am still feeling guilty for he begged me not to report him and admitted he was doing it for well over squealing on my fellow employee. two months.

Mixed feelings I told him I did not agree with what he was doing and suggested he Dear Mixed feelings, quit doing it. He told me he needed the extra cash to pay off some loans, You did nothing wrong and you and even offered me some cash to need to understand and accept keep quiet. I refused his offer and that. As a matter of fact this cowithout telling him I went and worker should be thanking you for informed the boss.

What he did not know was he was reporting him. You actually did him a favor because it was just a matter of being watched on camera. The boss time before action was taken against commended me for my honesty and him, and judging from what you were offered me an immediate promotion.

The boss called us together into his told he would have been prosecuted. This experience was just office and showed my colleague the another reminder to you that honesty tape. He offered him the chance to still remains the best policy. pay the money back within a certain time which he accepted to do. The

Dear George,

George

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20) You'll be prone to tears if your mate is harsh with you this week. You may have difficulties with foreigners. You will have excellent ideas for changing or renovating your home.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You need to clear up some important personal documents before the end of the year. Be sure to catch up on overdue correspondence and help those you love find solutions to their dilemmas.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) You may be in an extremely passionate mood this week. It's a favorable time for real estate, investments, and moneymaking opportunities to be successful.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You may have a problem keeping secrets. Involvement in groups will be favorable and lead to valuable information. Lending and borrowing may be a problem.

Gemini (May 22-June 21) Don't promise to deliver the goods if you aren't positive that you can meet the deadline. Don't let your boss make you feel guilty enough to take work home with you.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Make residential changes that will lift your spirits. Get busy trying to make more money. Avoid conflicts with in-laws or other family members. Brunch, a long walk, or a quiet dinner will secure your position in the relationship.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Be careful when dealing with female members of your family. Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of. You can expect changes in your living arrangements.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Problems with in-laws or relatives may be more damaging than you realize.

Don't get involved in joint ventures.

You should be raising your self-esteem and confidence in order to promote your work.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Romantic opportunities are evident if you get involved in large groups or organizations. Be careful while traveling. You have your own family to consider as well. Go after your professional goals.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Things are looking good for you, so open your eyes and get to it. You will have extra energy; put it to good use. Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Try and avoid getting involved in idle chatter or gossip that might get you in trouble. Lovers will be demanding. You are best to sign your partner up for activities that will be tiring.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You should try to elaborate on an idea you have regarding a product or service for the home. Look into intellectual and physical games that will test your abilities. Entertainment should include the whole family or a lot of your friends.

ACROSS 1. Contribute 5. Hair ribbon 8. Hayworth of “Gilda” 12. Foul smell 13. Thankful sigh 14. Journalist Sevareid 15. Small city 16. Cloud spot 17. Dryer debris 18. Writing liquid 20. Endures 21. Plains dwelling 24. Shoe container 25. Hollywood’s Lupino 26. Varieties 29. Cap or beret 32. Henhouse product 33. Helpful object 34. Bar beverage 35. Salon solution 36. News medium 38. Dashed (off) 39. Family members 40. Church songs 42. Share equally 45. Parting utterance 46. Christmas melody 47. Also 49. India’s continent 53. A contraction 54. Winged hunter 55. Peddle 56. Soup legumes 57. Adored animal 58. Reveal (secrets) DOWN 1. Attained 2. Matrimonial words 3. Oath 4. Bert’s Muppet pal 5. Soak up sun

6. Massive tree 7. “How come?”

8. “Quit worrying!”

9. Flashy bloom 10. Pale color 11. Deeds 19. Mesh trap 20. – Angeles 21. Roped together 22. Irritable 23. Book leaf 24. Flower plots 27. Knitting material 28. Sweet pastry 29. Hurt 30. Astronaut Shepard 31. Wallet bills 36. Fruit seed 37. Timid

39. Scottish garments 41. Bread leavening 42. Quick cut 43. Strike a stance 44. Singing

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 19.

Horne 45. Lightning unit 47. Twirling toy 48. Be beholden 50. Take in visually 51. Feeling sick 52. 100%

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20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Rangers leads VPL standings AS IT STOOD AT THE END of the 10th round of matches in the second edition of the Dream 11 Vincy Premier League (VPL), Botanical Gardens Rangers Rangers had the slenderest of leads on the points table. They had earned 11 points to sit just above defending champions Salt Pond Breakers on 10.

Dark View Explorers were third on 8 points followed by La Soufriere Hikers on 5 points, with Grenadines Divers in fifth on 4 points and Fort Charlotte Strikers in sixth position on 2 points.

At this stage, Sunil Ambris, Captain of Salt Pond Breakers, was the leading runs scorer with

205, his highest being 61.

Miles Bascombe of Dark View Explorers followed Ambris. He had a total of 186 with 66 not out his highest. Asif Hooper, Captain of Grenadines Divers, had the third highest aggregate, 166, with a top score of 61 not out.

Jeremy Layne from Salt Pond Breakers was the leading wicket taker with 10 wickets, with an economy rate of 7.02.

Delorn Johnson, also of Salt Pond Breakers, had the second most wickets, 9, and an economy of 8.92. Kimali Williams of Botanical Garden Rangers and Tyrone Theophile of Grenadines Divers both had totals of 8, Williams economy

Sunil Ambris tops the aggregate for batsmen going into the finals of the second edition of the VPL.

Former West Indies Jeremy Layne is the player Miles Bascombe leading wicket taker continues to make his with 10. presence felt at the local level. expected to conclude this weekend at the Arnos being 8.54 and Theophile Vale Playing Field.

7.78.

I.B.A.ALLEN The tournament is

Toni Stores Combined: Senior Masters Champs

Double-Double for System 3 Predators placed second in the League Competition of the Female Division with 11 points, behind System Three’s 13 points. Third place was CamdoniaChelsea.

Meanwhile, System 3 Under-16 outfit ended on 13 points in the League Competition, ahead of second place Volcanoes on 10 points, with Adare in third with 8 points.

In the awards ceremony that System Three followed, Delano Under-16 Team Benjamin of Volcanoes was Right: System the leading goal Three – Female scorer in the Team Agriculture Input Warehouse SYSTEM 3 Under-16 ACADEMY did the Division; Jafari double by winning Samuel of both the League System 3 the and Knock Out the Knock Out title to Most Outstanding Goal titles in the Females and their silverware by keeper and Kevonte Under-16 Knock Out defeating Je Belle oneClarke, also of System 3, titles, of the Carib Beer nil. Altica Benn was the the Most Outstanding Breakaway Masters goal scorer.

Player. Largo Height Invitational Football Then System 3 copped the Most Tournament. secured the Under-16s to Disciplined Team award When the shortened complete their double, in that division.

Tournament ended last with a one-nil win over Jamalo Payne and Saturday at the Volcanoes. Steven Pierre Nathan Ollivierre, both Grammar School Playing scored for System Three. six years and three Field, the Females added North Leeward

Toni Stores Combined Senior Masters Champions.

Kevonte Clarke – Most Outstanding Under-16 player months, were rewarded with school supplies, as they were the youngest players in the Tournament.

In the Female Division, Ariel Delpesche of System 3 was voted the Player of the Tournament; Cavorn Delpesche also of System 3 was the leading goal scorer; Marsha Marshall of Camdonia-Chelsea, the Best Goal Keeper.

CESCO Titans was adjudged the Most Disciplined Team.

The female segment was sponsored by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation.

Right: MVP of the Senior Division – Desborn Lavia (right) gets his reward from Kensly Deane of Coreas Distribution.

TONI STORES COMBINED retained the senior title of the Breakaway Masters Invitational Football Tournament, with a one -nil win over RSVG Police last Saturday, at the Grammar School Playing Field.

A Jimmy Providence strike in the first half was enough to give Toni Stores Combined the win.

In the process, Toni Stores Combined emulated Ministry of Education, which was the first team to retain the title with back to back wins in 2014 and 2015.

Given the window available to organisers for staging the Tournament, the Firms Division was merged with the Under-19 Division.

Je Belle was the only Under-19 team to reach the semi-final stage.

Among the senior division awardees was Transport and Works, who was named the Most Disciplined Team.

Reece Jack and Nick Bandenock, both of Coreas Distribution, were respectively the top goal scorer and the Best Goal keeper.

Kendra Findlay of Transport and Works was adjudged the Most Outstanding Female Player.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 21.

Sports

Glenside Ball Blazers: Arnos Vale Football champs

of the Finals.

First Division Group 1 winner was Volcanoes with 13 points while System 3 won Group 2 finishing on 11 points.

Blossom Unlimited took the Under-17 title followed by System 3.

Among the top individual performances, Glenside Ball Blazers - 2020 Arnos Vale Shemar Ollivierre of Football League Champions – pictured United Strikers, with 6 with (standing from right), Michael John goals, was rewarded for of Comsport/Arnos Vale Football being the top goal scorer League, Carl Dickson - President of the in the First Division.

SVGFF and Curtis King, newly elected Ryan Ellis of Blossom MP for the area. took a similar award in the Under-17 Division, Shemar with 10 goals.

Ollivierre of A Most Valuable Player on United each team as well as match Strikers, officials were also rewarded. top First In the team awards, other Division than the awards handed out goal scorer. as per positions in the competition, Store Jugglers year’s received the Carl Dickson Comsports award of $300 for being the Arnos vale Shem Dascent of Most Disciplined Team.

Football Glenside Ball Blazers A total of 12 teams took League Man of the Finals. totaled Blossom Unlimited, pictured with Carl Dickson and MP Curtis part in the competition.

Awards handed out in this some EC$$10,000.00.

King (stooping L- R) - took the Under-17 title.

I.B.A.ALLEN GLENSIDE Ball Blazers were crowned champions of the Comsport Arnos Vale Football League, when they defeated System 3 five-four on penalty kicks in the final, occasioned after both teams were locked at 2 goals apiece even after extra time.

Shem Dasent and Mickele Culzac were the goal scorers for Glenside Ball Blazers while

Renson Sears and Jodan Jacobs scored for System 3.

Big Tigga Strike Force clinched the 3rd spot when they defeated Blossom Unlimited 2 goals to 1. Sadique Pompey and Gevoni Joseph scored a goal each for Strike Force. Kennos Samuel scored the only goal for Blossom Unlimited.

Dasent was adjudged MVP

Pride & Joy revels in Richland Park Football PRIDE & JOY went one step better than their 2019 second position, when they defeated Greiggs 3-2, in the final of the 2020 Hairoun Digicel Richland Park Nine A Side Football Competition, at the Richland Park Playing Field.

Ozim Henderson struck two goals

and Orlando Trimmingham the other, to account for Pride & Joy’s tally.

Greiggs’ goals were converted by Racheem Delpesche and Anthonio Prince.

Henderson was later named Player of the Final.

Taking the Best Goal Keeper award

Parsha takes Layou football title PARSHA, last Sunday, inked their name on the list of champions of the Layou InterVillage Football League, with a 3-0 win on penalties over Texeira Road in the finals of the 2020 edition, played at Layou Playing Field.

In front of a large gathering of spectators comprised primarily of residents of Layou, the teams played to a 0-0 draw in regulation time, which necessitated the penalty kicks.

Parsha got to the final with a 3-1 over Jamrock, while Texeira Road had defeated Plan 4-1, in the two semi- final matches.

Plan took the third place, after Jamrock did not show for the play off.

At last Sunday’s Presentation Ceremony, Parsha collected the winner’s purse of $1500,

while second placeTexeira Road pocketed $1000. Plan got $500.

The other participating teams were Layou Old Boys, South Leeward Old Boys and Buccament.

This year’s League saw the mandatory inclusion of a female player in each team, who had to be on the field at all times.

Also all preliminary

was Greiggs’ Sachin James. Otis Hector of Pride & Joy was voted the Best Defender.

Emmerson Prince of Wakanda was a double awardee; he won the Best Midfielder accolade and was the leading goal scorer with 12 goals.

Taking the Competition’s Overall Most Valuable Player was Osei Delpesche of Greiggs.

Ajit Duncan of Greiggs was voted the Best Manager. Pride & Joy Under-17 team was adjudged the Most Disciplined Team.

Wakanda, last year’s champion, had to settle for the third place, when they trounced Hill 16, 5-1 in the play off.

Fittingly, it was Pride & Joy that ended Wakanda’s reign, as they turned the tables 2-1 on them in the semifinals.

In the other semi-final, Greiggs outlasted Hill 16, 5-4 on penalties, after a 2-2 draw at regulation time.

This year’s competition was

Parsha - winners of the 2020 Layou Inter- Village Football League. matches had to have a positive result, as sudden penalty kicks were taken when matches were drawn in regulation time.

In the elimination phase, the female was also required to take the first penalty kick.

Winning Unit - Pride & Joy.

Player of the Final- Ozim Henderson (right) gets his award from Michael John, Committee Member of the SVGFF. shortened because of the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the organisers were able to institute an inaugural Female Division, which consisted of five teams.

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Dear Jules:

YOU didn’t even give me sign that you were leaving and although I was at the Church and took part in the procession to the Troumaca Bay Burial Ground, and saw your coffin interred in the grave, I still have thoughts of you living in my mind.

The conversations which flowed between us were lessons to me. You had a philosophical outlook on life far beyond my wildest imaginations. I tried to stay in the realms of practicality, but for you everything was possible.

The missions you ventured on were exciting and brought out the best in the neighbourhood.

You spread your wings far and wide starting with the North Leeward community. Troumaca was your base, but like an old economic scholar, you carved out yourself, you looked at the broader picture.

You realised that North Leeward was the broader option, so you put your efforts into ensuring that the best of the area surfaced.

There is a versatility about you and you did not confine yourself to a single aspect. You contributed to national development. The Football Federation found ways of incorporating your services.

His agenda on the morning of his death was to take some photos of the Vincy Heat Football team on their way to a Gold Cup fixture in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

It happened that the must have been saddened by the news of your passing and they slipped to a 2: 0 deficit within 40 minutes. They equalised with four minutes of regulation time remaining, only to be snuffed in the end.

With the need for guidance more urgent than ever, the sobering judgements Jules applied to many situations is my greatest loss. I experience denial syndromes, for the shock of his demise is yet to be overcome.

His balancing powers surfaced at any gathering. He established himself as a family man of genuine value. Once you came into contact with, you became part of his wider circle.

He broadened that network. Whether you were a student of his, in the classroom, or under the steering wheel, there was a deliberate and methodical approach to his business.

Jules led by example and while he had a knack for delegating responsibilities, he was the first to take charge of any adjustments needed.

There was a sense of loyalty about him, and once you were in his ambit, you were assured of his commitment. Jules was not satisfied with mediocrity and if he could not complete the deal, once you did your best that was sufficient.

Jules’ vision is being grasped by his survivors, and even those who were hostile to his efforts at community upliftment are happy to latch on to his agenda and carry on his ambitions.

But there is one Jules Anthony. The experience he gathered shaped him. There was sincerity in Jules’ production, so he did create any impression.

His ventures were authentic, so there was mileage for your enterprise once you bought into his vision.

The final chapter in the Jules’ is still to be written. He was 65 when he died, He knew me all his life, for he was one year old when I joined him on earth.

On his 67the birthday, I engaged in a celebration in his honour. He was that sort of individual, spontaneous, but with calculated judgement. Two years later, your memories loom as lively as ever.

Four double awardees in Swim Championships FOUR SWIMMERS copped double titles when the St Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation hosted the OECS Swimming

Championships last weekend at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Center.

Participation in the Championship was limited to St. Vincent and the Grenadines since the other territories were unable to attend, given the various restrictive

Brandon George

Belle Adams

Jadon Hamilton health protocols that are in place consequent upon the coronavirus pandemic.

Notwithstanding, Belle Adams, Jadon Hamilton, Brandon George and Mya De Freitas were their respective age groups individual champions, and added the Sprint Champions’ titles to their names.

Adams won both titles in the Females 8 and Under, with Hamilton doing likewise for the males in that age group.

They were also the Sprint Champions in their age group.

Meanwhile, George secured the Male 11-12 Individual title and was the 9- 12 Sprint Champion, while De

Mya De Freitas Freitas pouched the Females 13-14 title and was the 13 and Over Sprint Champion.

In the 9-10 age bracket, Eltonique Leonard took the Female category and Hazen Dabriel, the Male.

Among the other titles won was the Female 1112, which went to Kennice Greene, with Eltonte Leonard copping the Male 13-14.

Jaynika Williams pouched the Females 15 and Over title and Kenale Alleyne, was the Male champion.

And, Zariel Nelson grasped the Female 9-12 Sprint Champion title and Aaron De Freitas was the Male 13 and Over Sprint Champion.

Je Belle Youths trumps SVGCC Football JE BELLE YOUTHS pouched the 2020 French Verandah National Lotteries Authority SVG Community College Invitational Football competition last Friday night at the Victoria Park, with a 5-3 win on penalties over Just Graduated Combined.

Je Belle Youths started brightly and took the lead in the third minute via a Kadeem Duncan tap in from close range.

But Just Graduated equalized in the 73rd minute, when Garett Leigertwood scored on the second attempt from the penalty spot.

Leigertwood‘s goal sent the match into overtime, which resulted in Je Belle Youths making good of all their kicks, whilst Just Graduated converted three.

In the third place playoff, Year One Technical and Shaielle Williams – the Vocational edged Year Two Arts, lone female who played in Sciences and General Studies the one goal to nil. competition.

Champions Akeem Davis netted the decisive goal in the 61st minute.

Zidaine Sam of Je Belle Youths was adjudged the Best Striker, the MVP of the Final and the MVP of the Tournament.

Shaielle Williams of Year One Technical and Vocational Education was the MVP of semifinal one, MVP of the third place playoff and received the award for being the lone female in the competition.

Shayne Lynch of Just Graduated Combined took the MVP of semifinal two.

Devarno Bynoe of Je Belle Youths was named the Best Defender while Jahva Audain of Year One Technical and

Je Belle Youths Vocational Education received the Best Midfielder award.

Esrick Charles of Year Two Arts, Sciences and General Zidaine Sam – Studies triple awardee, copped the including MVP of best the Tournament.

Goalkeeper award , Jahseem James of Hope International the Most Goals award for his nine goals, and Kadeem Duncan of Je Belle Youths got the award for the best goal in the final.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2020. 23.

Classifieds

VERON MOSES SAMUEL a.k.a. Bird

YVETTE CELENA ASH

Sunday, 15th November, 2020 Mt Zion Spiritual Church Rose Hall Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Rose Hall Cemetery

Sunday, 15th November, 2020 S.D.A Church Barrouallie Viewing: 1:30 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

PATRICIA ROSITA JOHN Saturday, 14th November, 2020 Cathedral of the Assumption Kingstown Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

DOREEN WINIFRED SIMMONS Saturday, 14th November, 2020 6W 0DU\¶V $QJOLFDQ Church Port Elizabeth, Bequia Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Port Elizabeth Cemetery

CARLTON FITZROY JACKSON Sunday, 15th November, 2020 Calder S.D.A Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Belmont Cemetery

AI REAL ESTATE Land in McCarthy 26,410 SQ.FT - $5.50 P.S.F. $145,255.00 - BB188 (784)- 457-2087/(718)-807-4376 office (784)-493-9431/(784)-533-0431 whatsappcell donp@vincysurf.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER

20, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.47

www.thevincentian.com

COURT PUT AT HEALTH RISK

EC$1.50

According to one inmate, the Belle Isle Correctional Facility may just have more cases of chicken pox than it would want to admit.

by HAYDN HUGGINS THE HEALTH of persons at the Serious Offences Court may have been at risk on Tuesday morning, with the presence of a prisoner who admitted being infested with chicken pox, a contagious disease.

The inmate had made an appearance on a charge of attempted robbery.

The issue surfaced when,

The prisoner, who was said to be infected with the disease, was removed from the Court room, and the police officer who was handling the matter left, during a brief recess of the putting everybody at risk,” the saying she was going to get in Court, a remand prisoner, officer said. contact with the prison sitting on the prisoner’s bench, Another prisoner on the authorities. told a police officer that he did bench who said he was housed THE VINCENTIAN did not not want to be handcuffed to a at the Belle Isle Correctional ascertain whether this was certain prisoner, also sitting Facility, added, “The main done, but the officer returned on the bench, because that prison, they have pox in it. minutes after, and was seen inmate was infected with pox. These things need to be sanitizing areas of the Court The officer then asked the published.” room. prisoner in question if he had One lawyer was seen All this time the Court was (chicken) pox, and he replied leaving the court room still on recess, but there were in the affirmative. speedily when he heard what police officers and members of “This is not good, you are was said. the public in the gallery.

There were also lawyers sitting at the bar table, but it was not clear whether they knew what was happening.

Up to press time, Wednesday, several attempts were made by THE VINCENTIAN to reach Superintendent of Prisons Brenton Charles on cellular phone, but all proved futile.

This publication also tried to contact him by phone at Her Majesty’s Prisons on Wednesday, but was told that, “He did not come in today”.

The incident has triggered concerns in light of other recent health related outbreaks.

ÂIGNORE ME⁄ NO PORT!Ê SAYS CUMMINGS ONE OF THE MAJOR undertakings on which the Unity Labour Party campaigned for another term in office/government, was a two-phase programme to modernise the Kingstown Port.

Estimated to cost in the vicinity of US$180 million, the project is designed to include the construction of a new cargo port, creation of a new road network to improve access and traffic flow around the central business district of Kingstown, and the relocation of residents of the Rose Place community, towards which the new port will be shifted.

Government had gone as far as to announce that residents of Rose Place will be relocated to an area in Lowmans Leeward, where houses will be built for them.

Vendors who had plied their trade along the water front at Little Tokyo, have already been compensated and some relocated.

As far as funding is concerned, the incumbent ULP had indicated that US$110 million would come in the form of a loan from the Caribbean

Development Bank (CDB); US$32 million as a grant from the CDBadministered United Kingdom Infrastructure Fund, and a US$43 million contribution from the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

And while in fact there has been dialogue with some residents, particularly the fishermen who live and operate out of the community, Daniel Cummings, Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) Parliamentary Representative for the area (West Kingstown), has said that he has never been invited to any dialogue/discussion on the Port Expansion Project.

As recent as last Saturday evening, during the NDP’s ‘Thank You Rally’ at

Heritage Square, Cummings warned, “Listen to me SVG, listen to me ULP, the people of West Kingstown have given me the authority to speak on their behalf. If you don’t dialogue with me and if you don’t make all the information available to me on that project, that project will be dead.”

Cummings had earlier said that he had asked in Parliament for the Port Expansion Project document but he never received that nor any other

relevant documentation.

It was Cummings’ contention that if there was no dialogue with him, as the duly elected representative of the people of Rose Place, he has been given the authority to say that there will be no port.

There was no mention of any proposed course of action if the authorities continued to ignore Cummings’ position.

Port Kingstown is to see the beginning of major renovation and modernization in 2021.

Inset: Daniel Cummings, MP for West Kingstown is insisting that there will be no new port unless he is integrally involved in the rolling out of the project.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.