DEFREITAS: ‘GOVERNMENT STILL OWES ME’
Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ presentation in Parliament on the
byDAYLE DASILVA
MARCUS DEFREITAS, Managing Director of DeFreitas Investment Holdings Limited (DIHL), and a former New Democratic Party (NDP) Parliamentarian and Minister of Government, Marcus has challenged the Government to provide evidence of all payments made to his company.
The payment is in relation to the (government’s) acquisition of three properties along Murray’s Road, owned by DeFreitas Investment Holdings Limited (DIHL), trading at the time as Trans Caribbean Traders Ltd.
DeFreitas’s challenge to government came after a claim by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves made in Parliament on January 8, 2025, that government
had made payments totaling EC$4.7 million towards the acquisition. DeFreitas countered the Prime Minister’s claim saying in a public broadcast that in fact, only EC$3.7 million was paid.
Marcus DeFreitas, Managing Director of DIHL, from whom the properties were acquired, contends that the government still owes his company approx. $2.7
In a press release dated February 28, 2025, DeFreitas, Managing Director of DIHL, stated that since the Prime Minister’s claim was widely reported in local media, it was his duty to refute the statement made by Dr. Gonsalves in Parliament DeFreitas stated in the release:
“I, categorically state that the Prime Minister’s utterance is very
far from the truth in material aspects.
I further state that the Government only paid EC$3,743,785.”
Continued on Page 3.
Right:
UWI Toronto Benefit Honours the Garron
UWI TORONTO HONOURS
Philanthropists Myron and Berna Garron, whose generosity has transformed pediatric healthcare in Canada and beyond, will be honoured at the 16th annual University of West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards, for their lifelong dedication to improving children’s lives.
Hailing from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Berna, alongside her husband Myron, have deep ties to the Caribbean. In 1973, the Garrons lived in Montego Bay, Jamaica, where their youngest son, Anthony, was born. At the time, Myron was working in banking and had accepted a transfer to Montego Bay with Scotiabank.
During their time in Jamaica, their eldest son, Michael, who was initially misdiagnosed
with a common ganglion cyst at the age of three in Hamilton, Canada, experienced worsening health concerns. A specialist in Kingston, Jamaica, conducted exploratory surgery and urged the family to return to Canada for further medical care.
Tragically, Michael was later diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer.
Motivated by the devastating loss of their son at age 13, the Garrons became champions in the fight against childhood cancer in Canada and beyond. In his memory, they established the Garron Family Cancer Centre at SickKids Hospital, supporting groundbreaking pediatric cancer research and significantly advancing
pediatric cancer care.
In recognition of their remarkable contributions, the couple will receive the prestigious G. Raymond Chang Award at the 16th annual UWI Toronto Benefit Awards on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto, Canada.
Over nearly a decade, their philanthropic contributions–totalling well over the $50 million pledge Berna made with her son–have enabled the acquisition of state-ofthe-art equipment and supported critical research and treatment initiatives. Their generosity has not only transformed care for young Canadians but also extended to helping children with cancer in the Caribbean through SickKids’ global outreach efforts.
The Garrons’ passion
for giving back is evident in their support of numerous healthcare institutions, including SickKids Hospital, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, and Michael Garron Hospital, which was renamed in honour of their son. Their belief in sharing what they have to help others continues to inspire hope and improve lives for countless families facing pediatric cancer.
“This is a proud night for the Caribbean diaspora and it does more than just bridge gaps; it builds and strengthens communities, uniting us in a shared vision of education, empowerment, and recognition of leaders and mentors who guide the way forward,” says Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, UWI Toronto Benefit Awards CoPatron.
The 2025 UWI Toronto Benefit Awards promises an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, celebration, and recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations that are shaping a better future for all.
Others to be honoured at this year’s Benefit Awards are:
* Luminary Award: Dr. Jason Drew Harrow (Kardinal Offishall), multi-platinum rapper, producer, Def Jam Global A&R, and judge on Canada’s Got Talent;
* Chancellor’s Award: Onyx Initiative, a non-
by Wayne and
* Vice Chancellor’s Award: Dr. Mark Beckles, RBC Royal Bank’s Community Investment Initiatives and President & CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada); Ms. Patricia DeGuire, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission, co-founder of the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers, and Black Law Students’ Association of Canada; Ms. Leslie Woo, CEO of CivicAction and Founder of shebuildscities.org
profit founded
Nigela urboo;
Myron and Berna Garron
V News 3
DeFreitas: ‘Government still owes me’
Continued from Frontpage.
Payments made by government
According to the businessman, a payment was made on or about January 2005 amounting to EC$1,743,785; a second payment was made on or about June 30, 2022, which amounted to EC$1 million. He acknowledged a
Gonsalves
Continued from Frontpage.
payment made by the Government in 2022 which amounted to EC$1.5 million and another in an amount of EC$500,000 in 2024.
However, according to DeFreitas, that money was credited to interest and based on the judgement order rendered by the Tribunal, the Government still owed the company EC$2,357,000 plus interest.
Subsequent payments were made on or about September
5, 2022 (EC$500,000) and on or about February 20, 2024 (EC$500,000).
Initial valuation not accepted
As was explained by Gonsalves and supported by DeFreitas, the initial Government valuation of the properties under consideration was EC$1,743,785, an amount with which the owners disagreed. As per the procedure, the matter was sent to a Tribunal.
The hearing occurred in March 2007 and the Tribunal, headed by then High Court Judge, Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle, ruled in favour of DIHL, awarding EC$4.1 million inclusive of the value of the properties, EC$370,000 for loss of profits and an additional EC$20,000 cost.
The Government was also ordered to pay 5 percent interest effective November 2007 on the unpaid amount.
DeFreitas explained in the release that the Government appealed this Tribunal’s Order on the grounds that the Tribunal failed to allow the Chief Surveyor at the time, Adolphus Ollivierre, to
respond to a Valuation Report issued by Stanley DeFreitas of DeFreitas and Associates, a professional practice of chartered accountants, management consultants and business advisors, providing public accounting, tax, audit and business advisory services.
“Mr. Adolphus Ollivierre was found not to be credible by the Tribunal and this fact was so stated in the findings of the Tribunal and perhaps, this could have been the reason why the Tribunal did not see it fit for his rebuttal of Mr. Stanley DeFreitas evidence,” the release stated.
Government Appeals and thereafter
But, in his referenced presentation in Parliament, Dr. Gonsalves disclosed that the Government appealed the Tribunal Order and the matter was heard on November 25, 2010. The Justices of Appeal referred the matter back to the Board of Assessment for a new assessment.
That being the case, a new Board of Assessment had to be established.
Although a chairperson and
a representative of government was named to the Board, DIHL failed to appoint anyone, Gonsalves told Parliament.
Gonsalves contended that with the Board of Assessment unable to convene a meeting and given that government was moving towards expediting plans for the construction of the Hall of Justice on the acquired property, it was he who decided to get closure on the matter.
Accordingly, payments against what was owing were made in 2022, 2023 and 2024, Dr. Gonsalves disclosed, with the last payment being EC$500,00 made in February 19, 2024 and collected by DIDL.
Notwithstanding the government’s position, DeFreitas contended in his statement, that while they paid $1.5 million in 2022 and $500,000.00 in 2024, these monies were credited to interest. According to the Judgement Order rendered by the Tribunal, the Government still owes my Company $2,357,000.00 plus interest. (DD)
slams EC$22m ECCB Governor’s Palace
Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, described the expenditure as “an absolute scandal” and an “unacceptable extravagance”, and criticized the “lack of transparency and insufficient oversight by the ECCB’s internal review mechanisms, the Bank’s Board of Directors, and the Monetary Council.”
Dr. Gonsalves’ sentiments on the issue were expressed in what was described as a confidential letter (3 pages) that was leaked. The letter is dated February 17, 2025, and was addressed to Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who chairs the ECCB Monetary Council.
The ECCB Monetary Council is made up of the Minister of Finance from each
of the eight member countries of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB). The ECCB is the monetary authority for these island economies.
Prime Minister Gonsalves denounced the lavish spending as both irresponsible and out of touch with the situation of the region’s people who, according to him, were facing “huge economic challenges,” inclusive of rising food prices and increasing poverty. Such opulence, he said, was unacceptable.
The Vincentian leader pointed somewhat of an accusatory finger at the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew. He questioned how Dr. Drew could not notice “this blatant waste of finances,” when it was taking place just a stone’s throw away from his own Prime Minister’s residence, at the luxurious gated community of Beacon Heights in St. Kitts.
In this vein and considering that construction of the Governor’s new residence was into an advanced stage and therefore must be completed, Dr. Gonsalves suggested selling the mansion to the government of St. Kitts and Nevis for alternative use, possibly as the official
residence for the Governor-General or a high-end tourist accommodation.
The sitting Governor of the ECCB did not escape the purview of Dr. Gonsalves’ rampage.
In referencing that previous ECCB Governors have lived modestly, he proceeded to express what he said was “deep personal disappointment in the current Governor, whom he had once admired for his intellect and Christian virtues, including prudence.”
expressing how
felt about the $22m expenditure for what he described as a
Dr. Gonsalves went further, slamming the ECCB Governor for demonstrating “a total lack of sensitivity and prudence,” and called on the Monetary Council to consider whether the Governor’s continued leadership is “tenable in all the circumstances.”
Dr. Gonsalves acknowledged that the ECCB Governor “deserves comfortable accommodation,” but called for a revaluation of the current $22 million project. He urged the Monetary
Council to take immediate action to prevent further damage to the Bank’s reputation, acknowledging the likely public backlash over what he calls the “Governor’s Palace.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Gonsalves sidestepped a question about whether he was prepared to confirm the letter he was purported to have written in which he registered his utmost disgust with the EC$22m residence for the governor. He said he was not confirming or denying any correspondence he might have sent on the issue at hand.
Part of the area on Murray’s Road that was acquired by government from DIHL.
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, PM of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, did not mince words in
he
Governor’s Palace.
ECCB Governor Timothy Antoine and family will, on all counts, be the first occupants of the new Governor’s residence.
Defiant offender fined and confined
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
AN 18-YEAR-OLD MAN who committed four traffic offenses while being disqualified from driving for a year was fined and confined on Tuesday.
For driving while being disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving permit for one year, Ronan Philgence of Bequia, Sandy Bay, was sentenced to four months in prison and fined $3,000. He was ordered to pay the fine in nine months or two months behind bars.
The maximum penalty for that offense is six months and $5,000. Philgence was also charged with driving without a driving permit, driving without insurance, using that vehicle without the relevant license
for the period of February 1 to July 31, 2025, and giving a false name to the police, to wit, Ronan Ash.
For giving a false name, driving without insurance, and driving without the relevant license for the particular period, Philgence was fined $200 on each charge to be paid in nine months or two months in prison. He was reprimanded and discharged for driving without a driving permit.
The sentences are to run concurrently if the fines are not paid.
Chief Magistrate Colin John handed down the penalties at the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday after Philgence pleaded guilty to all five charges.
The facts showed that around 8:35 a.m. on February 26, WP Corporal 722
Paris was on Traffic duty in Bequia, in the vicinity of the Revenue Department, when she saw motor vehicle PN71 heading towards Hamilton, and observed that the license on the front windscreen was not valid. As a result, she signaled the vehicle to stop, and the driver complied. She informed him of her observation, and he stated that the vehicle was in the garage and that he was just using it to drop off a wallet.
The officer pointed out the offense of the invalid license to him and requested his driving permit, which he said was at home. She also asked him his name, which he gave as Ronan Ash of Camel, Bequia.
He was taken to the Port Elizabeth
Police warn against illegal plates
THE POLICEare
warning motorists who carry registration plates bearing identification marks that are not prescribed by law, that they would be prosecuted.
Acting Inspector of Police Kenny Jones, second-in-command of the Traffic Department, issued the warning while speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday.
Jones said that the Traffic Department has observed that persons are reducing the size of the letters and figures on registration plates, making them smaller and closer, which makes it very difficult for the numbers to be identified clearly and easily.
He said that because the numbers are not easily distinguished, a driver could “hit and run” and escape without being recognized.
Jones said that persons in breach of the regulation which deals with the use of vehicles without the prescribed registration plates could be ticketed for $80, and if the matter is brought to the Court, they could receive a fine ranging from $150 to $1,500 and/or 21 days in prison.
Jones added that many persons are using their vehicles without a registration plate light at night, making it difficult for the number on the plate to be distinguished at night, contrary to
what is required by the Traffic Regulations. In relation to the numbers on the plate, Jones said that the issue is not the lifting of the rays but the specification of the numbers, which must be what is required by law.
He explained that every letter and figure should be 3 ½ inches in height and 2 ½ inches in width, except in the case of the figure 1. He noted that every figure and letter should be 5/8 of an inch, and the space between them should be a half inch.
Jones added that the plates are supposed to have a margin about an inch from the sides, and from top to bottom.
The acting Inspector explained that when a person registers their vehicle, he/she is given a number plate by the License Department. The persons then goes to the graphics shop and
chooses which style registration plates they want, which in most times is not prescribed by law. He said that when the vehicle is brought to the Traffic Department for inspection, and the plates do not meet the specifications required by law, they are sent back to the graphic shop.“Our concern is that the letters and numbers on the plates are becoming smaller and smaller, sometimes reduced to half, or more than half of the size required by law”, he contended.
Jones, even though he disclosed that the police have held discussions with those businesses with regard to this issue, use this occasion to call on the graphic shops to standardize their registration plates in keeping with the identification marks required by law, That said, Jones noted
Acting Inspector of Police Kenny Jones.
that some persons take their vehicles for inspection with the correct registration plate, but after the inspection is done, they would put back on the stylish plates, or if they take their vehicles for inspection with the stylish plates, and the police fail them, they would put on the correction plates, but subsequently revert to the stylish plates.
Police Station and later transported to his home, where he escaped from the police. He was later apprehended, and investigations revealed that his correct name was Ronan Philgence. Checks were also made at the Traffic Department, and it was revealed that he was not the holder of a driving permit.
Investigations also revealed that he had been disqualified from driving for a year by Magistrate Kaywana Jacobs at the Georgetown Magistrate Court on April 8, 2024.
Philgence asked the Chief Magistrate for a chance, but John told him that a strong message must be sent to offenders and would be offenders.
Man discharged on attempted murder rap
SHELTON HOOPER, a 35-year-old Petit Bordel man who was charged with attempted murder after using a cutlass to chop a 13-year-old boy in his face on December 1, 2025, was discharged from the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday.
His discharge came after the boy informed the Court that he did not want to proceed with the matter.
The boy’s grandmother, his caretaker and with whom he lives, accompanied the boy to the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday and stood alongside him in the witness stand when the matter was called. When Prosecutor Renrick Cato asked the boy whether he was going to give evidence against the accused, he replied, “No please”.
The Prosecutor then asked him, “Did you make that decision of your own free will”? He replied, “Yes please”.
When Cato asked the boy’s grandmother, “You stand in support of your grandson”? She replied, “Yes please”.
The Prosecutor then asked the Court to discharge Hooper. The Magistrate granted his request.
However, Chief Magistrate Colin John told Hooper, “You are very fortunate”, adding that he could have been on a murder charge.
John observed that Hooper had been in the system for quite a while for offenses of violence, and was previously sentenced to 12 years in prison for a similar offense.
“Take this as an opportunity to change your life”, he told Hooper before he left the dock.
„I never struck him,‰ offender maintains
A PAUL OVERman who denied that he struck his friend, but said he was pleading guilty because he caused him (friend) to fall, was fined $1,000. Chad Layne was ordered to pay the fine in two months or six months in prison.
Appearing at the Serious Offenses Court, Layne pleaded guilty to unlawfully and
maliciously wounding Stephen Primus of Frenches.
The Court heard that Primus knew Layne very well, and they both frequented Paul’s Avenue.
Around 8:15 p.m. on February 19, Layne asked Primus for EC$5, which Primus owed him.
Primus told Layne that he didn’t have any
money at the moment, adding, “It’s a (expletive) small scene.”
Primus then noticed Layne picking up a bench from the road but paid him no mind.
However, as Primus turned his back, Layne struck him with the bench on his back, causing him to fall into a gutter, resulting in Primus sustaining
injuries.
He reported the matter to the police. As a result, Layne was arrested and charged.
Although Layne pleaded guilty to the charge, he denied that he struck Primus.
According to him, “Is a guy I know from since I know myself. He said that he kicked a stool, and Primus fell into the
gutter, but I pleading guilty because he caused it.
Even after the penalty was handed down, Layne told the Court, “To be honest, I never struck the man”.
He had also volunteered a written statement to the police admitting to kicking the stool causing Primus to fall over.
Vaccine Mandate matterÊs final step
THE MATTER that has become known as the Vaccine Mandate case is heading for the Privy Council once leave has been granted so to do.
According to a press release from Jomo Thomas’ Chambers, legal counsel for the 271 worker who were dismissed as per the tenets of the government’s Statutory Rules and Order No. 28 of 2021, legal documents were filed on March 3,
2025, on behalf of the dismissed workers, seeking leave from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court of Appeal, to appeal the majority decision of the Court of Appeal to His Majesty’s Privy Council.
Justice Henry, on March 13, 2023, ruled that the Government’s mandate commanding public workers to take a COVID-19 vaccine failing which they would be dismissed from their jobs
and lose all benefits, including salary, pension, and gratuity, was unlawful, unconstitutional, ultra vires, tainted with procedurally impropriety, and disproportionate. However, in a majority ruling delivered by Justice of Appeal the Honourable Eddy Ventose on February 12, 2025, the Court of Appeal allowed the government’s appeal against the ruling of
learned Justice Henry.
The S.V.G Teachers’ Union, the Public Service Union, and the Police Welfare Association, representatives of the 271 dismissed workers, green-lighted the decision to appeal to His Majesty’s Privy Council, according to the release from Thomas’ Chambers.
Following the ruling by the Court of Appeal, Prime Minister invited public sector workers who had been deemed to
have abandoned their posts after refusing to take the Covid-19 vaccine, to return their jobs.
“Any public servant, teacher, nurse, doctor, police officer, who has not yet returned to work can still avail themselves of the opportunity to return to work. All you have to do is to indicate
to the Chief Personnel Officer that you wish to return to work. Yom will be returned to work without any loss whatsoever of your pension rights. These would be added to what pension rights you have after you have returned to work,” Dr. Gonsalves assured the public servants.
CARICOM is calling on Venezuela to remove its military vessel from Guyana’s maritime territory and to refrain from interacting with any Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) platform located there.
In a statement, Caricom said the incident happened on March 1. It said acts of aggression and provocation were contrary to international law and the 2023 Argyle Declaration.
Venezuela slams Guyana Caricom cautions Venezuela
The Declaration refers to an agreement by leaders of both Venezuela and Guyana not to use nor threaten to use force, directly or indirectly, in any dispute
between them but to rely on international law including the 1966 Geneva Agreement in their dispute over the Essequibo region.
“This provocative incident of 1 March 2025 initiated by Venezuela runs counter to the agreed commitment of Caricom and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) to ensure that the Caribbean region remains a Zone of Peace. It is critical that there be a peaceful resolution of the border controversy as is expected under the International Court of Justice, which already has conduct over the dispute.”
It said, as discussed in the Argyle Declaration, a resolution to the territorial dispute over the Esequibo region was
possible without any acts of provocation or aggression so patience, calm and nonprovocation were
necessary on both sides.
“Caricom reiterates its well-known position which is unequivocal and unwavering support for
the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana.” (Source: caricom. org)
DESPITE sharp condemnation from Guyana and the international community, including the US, Venezuela continues to defend its actions regarding the latest maritime incident in the disputed Essequibo region.
On March 2, Venezuela Defence Minister Gen Vladimir Padrino Lopez issued a statement saying that the national armed force (FANB) categorically rejects the statements made by Guyana president Dr Irfaan Ali on the incident that occurred “in waters pending delimitation...
“It is imperative to remember that the aforementioned dispute has a valid legal instrument in force, deposited in the General Assembly of the UN, which governs its practical, political and satisfactory solution: the Geneva Agreement,” Lopez said.
“Therefore, Guyana has no legal basis or legitimacy to unilaterally dispose of a space where it cannot exercise sovereignty or jurisdiction.”
Ali had denounced
what he called an incursion, alleging a Venezuelan Coast Guard (CG) vessel entered Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on the morning of March 1.
The vessel then approached the offshore platform Prosperity FPSO (floating, production, storage, and offloading).
Guyana news outlet News Source shared an audio of the alleged exchange between a representative onboard the CG vessel and the captain of the FPSO via radio. The speaker claimed the FPSO was operating in Venezuela’s EEZ.
Shortly after Ali made the public announcement of the dispute, the US Department of State accused the Venezuelan naval vessel of threatening workers of the US-based oil and gas giant ExxonMobil’s FPSO. Lopez, though, continued to assert his country’s position, saying, “Faced with these incessant attacks, the armed institution, faithful to its antiimperialist nature, prepares itself in perfect popular military-police fusion to respond to any threat and preserve the territorial integrity and peace of the Republic.”
On January 10, a statement from the US State Department listed Lopez as a wanted man and offered a US $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest.
The department cited his alleged involvement in drug trafficking operations. (Source: News Source, Guyana)
Venezuela Defence Minister Gen Vladimir Padrino Lopez did not hesitate to inform that Venezuela stands regard to militarily defend its sovereignty. (Photo Source: Reuters)
The Venezuela military vessel that was said to have encroached on and approached Guyana assets in Guyana’s maritime territory and exclusive economic zone. (Photo Source: News Room, Guyana)
Mrs. Shermaine JosephBarnwell has not ruled out bringing legal action against certain individuals, even as she called on the Prime minister to make certain divulgence in relation to her ordeal.
SHERMAINE JOSEPHBARNWELL,teacher in the government system here, a married woman and mother of three, may well have thought that her visit to the (Public) Services Commission office on Monday 3rd March 2025, would have been a routine one.
Far from that. The visit turned out to be unpleasant, and what was described as an ensuing brawl led to Mrs. Barnwell-Joseph being hauled from the office, arrested and detained.
The teacher had gone to the Services Commissions to tender her resignation and in order to complete the process, requested information with respect to her outstanding vacation leave.
She could be seen on a live that she videoed herself, insisting on making her request which seemed to have gone unnoticed.
According to JosephBarnwell, she was accused of being “disruptive” in her dealings with the staff and was surprised that the police were called in to “deal with her.”
Man-handled by the police
School teacher arrested, not charged
During an interview on Boom FM 106.9 OMG programme the following morning, JosephBarnwell said she walked into the office very pleasantly, saying good morning to everyone.
When she made known the purpose of her visit and made her request regarding her vacation, she said “The lady said hold on I will get the information for me.”
The lady never returned but, according to the woman she noticed as she waited that three gentlemen had made their way into the area occupied by the staff.
“The gentlemen came back out to the front and they said cordon off the suspect; we got a call that there is a disturbance of the peace, and we are here to remove you from the building,” JosephBarnwell recalled.
“One of the officer proceeded to grab me around my neck and thrust me to the floor. Then grabbed me by my hair while I was on the floor and dragged me, while another officer held my two hands, dragging me up the hallway. The officers dragged me from the top floor of the Ministerial Building to the platform at the front,” she told the programme host.
She was then put very roughly put into a vehicle and taken to the Central Police Station.
“I was taken to the Central Police Station
upstairs, I guess, which would be the CID unit.
When I got there, a highranking officer led me to a room where a young man was detained. So, he opens the door, and he says, “Get out.” The young man gets out and then the man literally takes his two hands and pushes me face down into the cell. My legs were still hanging out the door. He told another officer, ”Drag her in.”. They dragged the remainder of my body inside the cell, then he slammed the cell door.”
Joseph-Barnwell described the experience at the police station as distressing. She had to use a bottle as a makeshift toilet and then mop the floor.
“When I asked for a phone call to my husband who was all this time unaware of my situation, I was refused,” the woman lamented.
Eventually her lawyer arrived and she was allowed to leave without being charged, but not before she emptied the bottle of urine and mopped the floor.
In a Facebook post on March 5, she called on the prime minister to make a public statement regarding her arrest.
She requested specifically that he divulges: the name of the person who made the report of the disturbance that led to my arrest; the nature of the disturbance that was reported that led to her arrest; the reason why the Criminal Investigations Department was involved in this alleged disturbance and not the
auxiliary officers assigned to the
Ministerial Building. Joseph-Barnwell has not ruled out legal action against multiple individuals involved in the incident that occurred on Monday.
Up to press time, there was no statement made by either the police or the Service Commissions Department on the matter. (KH)
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
From Joy to Sorrow
ITS SEEMED OVER THE LAST WEEKor so, ‘our cup ranneth over‘ with excitement if not loads of drama.
To begin with, let’s be up front and extend heartiest congratulations to the staff of NBC radio for what, from firsthand reports, was a seamless execution, March 01, of their signal charity fundraiser- LOVE BOOGIE.
Add to this a near ‘perfect’ offloading of a month and more of promotions, and it won’t be unkind to all the promotors out there to say that the exuberant staff at NBC radio could teach them a thing or two about how to get into the psyche of an intended audience/patronage.
That the funds raised will go towards the NBC’s Medical Fund to be used to assist needy persons awaiting advanced medical attention, is another feather, and no ordinary feather, in the caps of the NBC team.
How we wish the vibe of LOVE BOOGIE could permeate the hearts and minds of the citizenry all year round.
Maybe next year’s LOVE BOOGIE could serve as an ’olive branch type’ event that brings together what would be by the time March comes around again, a tired cohort of political adversaries, in an effort to mend ‘bad feelings’ and encourage meaningful collaboration in the interest of the country as a whole.
That said, what a pity (in want of a better world) that in month during which we celebrate our national hero, Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer, host his ancestor as we revel in our ‘Vincentianness’, and mark International Women’s Day, that we would be ‘feasted’ with an incident involving a female teacher, a mother of three, in what was an unbelievably unnecessary heated exchange between the teacher and representatives of her employer (government), that led directly to the arrest of that female teacher.
That the teacher would have gone to the Service Commission office to tender her resignation as a teacher in the government system, and to be refused, or to have encountered unwarranted difficulty in obtaining information about her outstanding vacation, a request in keeping with her right and civil service procedure, is nothing short of ‘madness’.
That the exchange was allowed to escalate to the point of having security officers intervene on the side of the Service Commission staff, is testimony to disregard for another more discreet manner of arriving at whatever misunderstanding that might have arisen with respect to the teacher’s reason for being there.
Not having considered the alternative was enough to demonstrate little regard for decorum not to mention the rights of employees in the public service.
And to think that the exchange would have developed to the stage of having the teacher apprehended, arrested and detained by police, is nothing short of a high-handed action which might just have been uncalled for had the circumstances been differently addressed. In as much as high-handed approaches should not characterize our police officers, their actions in this regard must not go unnoticed.
And the matter did not end there.
Conditions under which the teacher was held at the Central Police Station were unsavoury as they were unsanitary.
Reports that the married female, a mother of three was made to urinate in a bottle, are hard accept but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.
This, as our Prime Minister never ceases to remind us, is a country of laws and respect for those laws.
We do not want to ever have to say that the enforcement of the law by those tasked so to do, is executed with favour and brute force. We are not a police state, and we will stop at nothing to resist any action, any move to encourage that draconian approach to building society.
When there are infractions on the part of our law enforcement officers, we must call it like it is …we must condemn a wrongdoing for it is… wrong. When they do good, we must equally be forthcoming as this publication has demonstrated.
That the teacher was unbecoming in her response/behavior, which in part was laden with profanities, said nothing to enhance her as a women and mother. That might be a ‘judgement typical of our male dominated society in which we are quick to condemn the woman when she veers off the path we have prescribed for her. How fair is the man-woman relationship? Nuff said.
More Election Issues: Term Limits
TERM LIMITS seem to be emerging as a topic in the upcoming election schedule later this year. Before I go any further, let me be clear: I do not support any official rules creating any form of term limits. To my knowledge, SVG has no internal party rule and no constitutional or legislative term limits.
So, let’s dig into it and why it seems to be a sideshow in the upcoming election. The ULP seeks six consecutive terms in office, led by veteran leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who has over thirty years in office as a district representative. The strange thing is that most of the calls for term limits are coming from the opposition NDP at this time.
The call for term limits is not limited to us in SVG. Term limits are argued as an easy way to improve the effectiveness of government; it would allow the elected officials to make the necessary but sometimes unpopular decisions without worrying about being reelected; the longer one stays in office, the more likely one can be influenced by special interest groups. Proponents of term limits also argue that new blood in parliament is good. It allows fresh ideas to surface, reduces the possibility of fraud and abuse, and saves us from members serving long past their prime.
Much of the term-limit reasoning makes sense. However, it ignores the real downsides of limiting the number of terms a person can serve. For example, term limits take the power away from the voters. A fundamental principle in our system of government is that voters get to choose their representatives. Voter choices are restricted when a candidate is barred from being on the ballot. Policymaking and public administration are professions. Our system of government depends on lawmakers having a deep understanding of societal problems, with oftentimes no simple solution. Limiting availability can lead to a series of unintended consequences. Crafting effective legislation is a learned skillexperience matters.
Let’s look at the composition of our House of Assemble today and assume we had a three-term limit on service to our country. Eight of our current crew will be out of the office, and another two or three will be approaching the end of tenure. As you
can see, with no term limits, we limit the large number of lawmakers walking out the door after we paid for all that on-the-job training. It also reduces the expense of having to retain newcomers to the office. I strongly feel that legislators with limited time in office will be hesitant to develop and embark on long-term projects, because they will sometimes not be around long enough to move an idea from concept through the development stages to completion. A term limit would impose a tremendous brain drain on our government. Could you imagine a business forcing its top executive out of office after fifteen or twenty years? Isn’t it more realistic to recognize and utilize their skills, talents, and experience? Forcing them to the sidelines limits their potential and denies their constituents, the public, and the institutions (parliament and government the valuable contributions they can offer. Supporting and empowering them to make the most positive impact possible is essential.
While I fully support our right to choose our representatives every five years, I must say that the current sentiment in favor of term limits is rooted in the fact that the current administration, which has been in office for the last twenty-five years, is still using the excuse that we did not break it, and we are still working on fixing it. I strongly disagree with this attitude and the line of excuse often provided. For example, just a few weeks ago, the minister of education said, “Many of the issues plaguing the education system are not of our own making.” How much time is enough to fix a problem, Mr. Minister? Moments like these and the oftenunsubstantiated claims of corruption foster the urge to call for term limits. In conclusion, strangely, the discussion around term limits may be because of the NDP North Leeward candidate. However, looking at North Leeward, which has had multiple representatives since 1979, suggests that the current political system functions adequately without formal term limits. Instead of focusing on term limits, voters may benefit from a context where they can evaluate candidates based on their platforms and proposed solutions.
Horatio.
ULPÊs Choice of Candidate:
An insult to the Southern Grenadines people
SHE WAS not born in Union Island; she was not born in Mayreau; she was not born in Canouan. She has never lived on any island of the Southern Grenadines. She has never worked anywhere in the Southern Grenadines. She has never engaged in any community work to help the people of the Southern Grenadines. Where was this woman in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl when her party was dragging its feet in providing timely humanitarian assistance to the people of the Southern Grenadines who desperately needed help in rebuilding their lives and livelihoods? The truth be told, this woman has lived all of her life in St. Vincent except for a period of time when she lived in New York and could care less. No one from the Southern Grenadines really knows who this woman is. It is interesting to note that she did not consider running in any of the
available constituencies of South Windward, East Kingstown, or Central Kingstown given the fact that she is from Mainland St. Vincent.
So, what exactly qualifies this MAINLAND ST. VINCENT WOMAN to accept the ULP’s offer to contest the Southern Grenadines Constituency on its behalf in these upcoming general elections? After careful consideration, I conclude, and I strongly believe that she has accepted, that her sole and only qualification, if she ever were to stand any chance of success, will be her SURNAME recognition. This woman’s only claim to fame is that she carries her father’s surname. Her father was born and raised on Union Island and he is from one of Union island’s well known families- THE STEWARTS, who traditionally have been strong supporters of the New
Democratic Party. In fact, one of her uncles was the parliamentary representative of the Southern Grenadines and all of her remaining uncles and aunts are supporters of the NDP.
For ULP to put forward this woman as its candidate for the Southern Grenadines Constituency and for her to bold facedly accept its offer is a gross insult to the intelligence of the people of the Southern Grenadines. It is an absolutely shameful and disrespectful act by this SICK and delusional party. They could not even find a born and bred local resident of the Southern Grenadines as its candidate, nor even one from among its THREE-HEADED MONEY GRABBING CORRUPT MONSTER that lives on Union Island.
This vindictive evil ULP regime has
frustrated the people of the Southern Grenadines in its divide and rule policy during its twenty five autocratic rule and in particular, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. One wicked act that the ULP is currently doing to the residents who were forced to leave Union Island following Beryl is to deny them the right to register as voters once they return to Union Island. So my advice to this Mainland St. Vincent Woman, take whatever they give you and run like Usain Bolt because the ULP does not stand a chance in hell. We, the people of SVG have suffered far too long under this repressive, bad minded, evil, wicked administration. ENOUGH, NO MORE!!!
A True Union Island Resident
Is the 15-year Consent Age Unconstitutional?
WELL, well, well!!! The news might be stale but I must repeat it. The Trinidad and Tobago Commissioner of Police (CoP), a lady by the name of Erla Harewood-Christopher, was recently arrested and held in police custody.
The news reports said that she was arrested in relation to her alleged involvement in the importation of firearms — i.e. two high-powered sophisticated sniper rifles, earmarked for some state agency.
Well for me, there are two things that arouse the hairs on my neck as far as this story goes.
The first is that Trinidad and Tobago has demonstrated that no one is above the law, not even the Commissioner of Police. Tell me, anyone out there thinks that this could happen in our sweet, little SVG? You mad or what? To begin with, our Commissioner is there because of the Prime Minister. Notice I say Prime Minister and not Minister of National security…there is a difference. In other words, you not getting to the Commissioner unless you go through the PM. Ah want to see which DPP so fresh and out of place go above the PM head and order the arrest of our Commissioner? Never happen in sweet, little SVG, you mad or what!!!
The next point is related “sideways”, as my grandfather would have said. I recall some time ago that a certain foreign businessman was arrested and charged, I believe, for being in possession, without licence, for some fancy rifle which was said to be a sophisticated rifle used by snipers. Subject to correction, I never heard anything further on this matter. Was it ever called before our courts? Was it thrown out? A little help please.
By the way, ah wonder when we go see a female Commissioner of Police?
And as Bassy would say, “I gone”. Charles, Edinboro.
IT IS SAIDthat St. Vincent and the Grenadines has many lawyers. Should we be seeing them more? Should we be hearing from them? Do they hear us? We need guidance in so many areas, yet we are left in the bliss of our ignorance. Some use their knowledge to lead us astray. The few who speak up and speak out, are they being heard? Will they speak to the issue of our consent age being at 15 years?
Some say that lawyers are above the law. Many documents are prepared without doing a due diligence report. Lawyers are not held accountable for the advice they give to their clients. Many think that in comparison to other civil servants, they hardly pay taxes. If that is the case, then the rest of us are bearing the administrative cost of the court houses where they operate.
The law is not removed from the common people and when ridiculous decisions are made, we wonder whether the ones who should be experts in their field are genuine in the stance that they take, and whether they have political or other motivations. We recall the arguments and decision in favor of denying the debate on a
No Confidence Motion in our parliament. We are confident that the Privy Council of His Majesty King Charles 111 will give a just judgement to our suffering workers in the Covid-19 Vaccine Mandate case.
The matter of the constitutionality of our consent age being at 15 years can be used to determine whether those knowledgeable in Law are deaf, dumb and blind. Will they hear, speak and see to this issue?
Biologically, 20-35 years is the best period for bearing children. Children of secondary school age cannot handle relationships. Fifteenyear-olds are not allowed to purchase and consume alcohol and cigarettes. They cannot vote. They are not eligible for a national identification card. They cannot receive medical treatment without parental consent. Since a medical practitioner needs consent and permission from parents to examine a fifteen-year-old, how then can a stranger be allowed to do much more than that to that child without parental sanction? The consent age in India is 18 years. Muslims have a consent age of 18 years. The consent age in Christianity occurs at
marriage. Most religious faiths promote marriage as the point where consent is given.
Based on all these factors, the 15-year consent age is unconstitutional.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
Perpetual complainers
SOME PEOPLEare never satisfied no matter how much their lives have improved. These are the ones who help to lead the chorus about how “Things Hard!”, yet they drinking from the same glass.
In addition, these are the ones who don’t save a dime but go out every weekend and spend lavishly drinking at outlets that offer Hairoun Beer - three for one, for everyone to see.
These are the same ones who would sit for hours criticising everyone and everything under the sun, and spreading commess about people they know nothing about.
These are the ones who cricticise those who have made progress not knowing how much those people have sacrificed to get what they have, and to make a bright future for themselves and their children.
These are the same ones who will say that those people are friends, family or favourites of the ‘party in power’, who will get all the favours before anyone else.
I have witnessed these complainers first-hand. They are hypocrites who just wait for someone to come along and throw some fake promises and fling some little financial aid in their direction.
I am certain others, including the politicians, are aware of these malcontents who live in each community.
Our Patrimony: Through the prism of our own eyes
THE FRAME
ON MARCH 14, 2025, SVG again celebrates and commemorates National Heroes Day as it has done even before its formal declaration by way of the passage of the Order of National Heroes Act in February 2002 and the elevation of the Right Excellent Joseph Chatoyer, Paramount Chief of our Garifuna forebears as our first, and thus far our only, National Hero, on March 14, 2002.
This entry of Chatoyer, formally, into our pantheon of National Heroes is a vital part of our patrimony, which is understood to mean our heritage, our inheritance, our birthright, our historical riches, our legacy.
Two of SVG’s revered poets Daniel Williams and Ellsworth “Shake” Keane, both deceased, encapsulate the wider frame of this discourse on our patrimony, our heritage. In his poem “We are the Cenotaphs”, Daniel Williams teaches that:
“We are all time
Yet only the future is ours to desecrate, The present is the past, And the past, Our fathers’ mischief.”
The past, the present, and the future are central to our lives, living, patrimony, and production. “Shake” Keane in his poem “Private Prayer” advises us on these matters, thus:
“To understand How the whole thing run I have to ask my daughter and son.
“To understand the form Of compromise I am I must in my own voice ask How the whole thing run.
“To ask Why I don’t dream In the same language I live in I must rise up Among the syllables of my parents In the land which I am And form A whole daughter and a whole son Out of the compromise Which I am.
“To understand history I have to come home.”
So, in coming home to ourselves, we must view ourselves through the prism of our own eyes. In this way we get to understand our history, “how the whole thing run”; we must interrogate our forebears and ask questions of each other and even our daughters and our sons to grasp the compromise which the fever of history has made us. In this quest, our central purpose is to “form a whole daughter and a whole son”, not perfect ones, out of the compromise that we are.
But in our arrival at the “compromise” which history has made us, we ought never to compromise our core affirmations. Central to this exercise is the Preamble of our nation’s Constitution: That we Vincentians “have affirmed that the Nation is founded on the belief in the supremacy of God and the freedom and dignity of man and woman.” Further, we desire that our society be so ordered as to express our recognition of the principles of democracy, free institutions, social justice and equality before the law. Moreover, we realise that the maintenance of human dignity presupposes safeguarding the right of privacy, of family life, of property, and the fostering of just economic rewards
for labour. Our affirmation, desire, and realisation of these freedoms, principles, and ideals are enshrined and reflected in our nation’s foundation document (our Constitution) and our active governance.
OUR
CARIBBEAN CIVILISATION
Our history, geography, migration, population mix, landscape, seascape, material production, culture, contemporary inter-connectedness, and more, have helped to shape our island or seaboard Caribbean civilisation and its valued Vincentian component. As our Prime Minister, Comrade Ralph, has oftrepeated that through the fever of history and the process of creolisation within our especial landscape and seascape, our Caribbean civilisation emerged and coalesced as a metaphoric symphony: We are the songs of the indigenous people (Callinago, Garifuna, Amerindian); we are the rhythm of Africa; we are the melody of Europe, the chords of Asia; and the home-grown lyrics of the Caribbean. Like all symphonies, dissonances do occur, but we have evolved formal institutions and informal mechanisms or codes to correct or mute these dissonances.
Our Caribbean civilisation has arrived at a mature realisation that although we are not better than anyone, nobody is better than us. Our ownership or permanent sense of belonging to our landscape and seascape grounds us with an enduring social solidarity and uplifting values. We eschew a debilitating atomised individualism, inclusive of a rank selfishness. In us resides “the genius of our people”, that submerged, imprecise and invisible side that cements, uplifts, enhances production, and even defines us; ofttimes it erupts in an undefined or illdefined sense of celebration that we are “Second to None”. This genius of our people contains “hidden rationalities” of resources and abilities which are available to facilitate enhanced, inclusive prosperity; better living, quality cultural outpourings; and the embrace of the nobility and goodness of our heritage, our patrimony. These “hidden rationalities” resident in our people’s genius are the resources and abilities that are expressly hidden, scattered, badly or insufficiently utilised.
The further ennoblement of our Caribbean civilisation, inclusive of its magnificent Vincentian component, this making of “the whole daughter and the whole son” out of the compromise which history, in part, has made us, demands the construction of an appropriate, viable, and sustainable economic base. The ULP government is clear in its focus that this economic base requires the fulfillment of the quest to build a modern, competitive, many-sided, postcolonial economy that is at once local, national, regional, and global. This paradigm shift from the colonial/amended colonial economy which has existed for some 237 years (1763 to the declining days of the 20th century) must be effected for our civilisation’s enhancements; indeed that economic base is what the ULP government has been seeking to build for the last 24 years amidst all the external and internal challenges and contradictions.
NDP- Providing opportunities to empower women
ON SATURDAY 8TH MARCH2025, the world will unite to celebrate International Women’s Day, a momentous occasion dedicated to honouring the achievements of women while advocating for gender equality and empowerment. In recognition of this important occasion, the New Democratic Party (NDP) will host an innovative conference dubbed, ‘Elect Her’, aimed at fostering political engagement and leadership of women.
Senator Shevern John, our candidate for North Windward, alongside Laverne Velox, the candidate for East St. George, will address the conference. They will articulate their vision for the development of women in St Vincent and the Grenadines and address other critical issues that are affecting women. Joining them will be distinguished speakers such as Rhoda Crawford from the Jamaica Labour Party and Emmalin Pierre representing the New National Party of Grenada.
Over the past twenty-four years of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime, our country has grappled with numerous challenges, particularly those affecting women and girls. One of the most pressing issues remains the escalating violence and sexual assaults that disproportionately target this vulnerable segment of our population. St. Vincent and the Grenadines ranks alarmingly among the top ten countries in the world for rape per capita; a statistic that is both distressing and unacceptable. This high prevalence of sexual violence is a serious concern that demands urgent attention and action from the ULP government.
The failure of the government to address these concerns not only undermines the safety and dignity of our women and girls but also hinders our society’s overall progress. We will continue to highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reform and a renewed commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of our women and girls.
The NDP is committed to implementing transformative programs and policies aimed at empowering women and girls. We will equip them with the knowledge and resources necessary to live healthier lives. We recognize that access to quality education and training is crucial for empowering women and girls, and we will strive to create accessible pathways that foster their personal and professional growth.
The NDP is devoted to strengthening our communities by investing in additional shelters and social services specifically designed to support women and children. Our focus is to fostering better family life by ensuring that every woman and child has the support they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The NDP remains committed to the advancement and empowerment of women of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
We mourn the passing of Honourable Allan Cruickshank
The New Democratic Party (NDP) is deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved party stalwart, the Honourable Allan Cruickshank, who departed this life on March 1, 2025. A towering figure in the political landscape of our nation, Mr. Cruickshank dedicated his life to public service, leaving an indelible mark on the people of South Central Windward and the entire nation.
Born on May 25, 1951, Allan Cruickshank served as a Member of
Parliament for South Central Windward from 1984 to 2001, representing the NDP with unwavering commitment and integrity. His distinguished career in government saw him hold several ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Education and Health, Minister of Communications and Works, Minister of Agriculture, Industry and Labour, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tourism, and Information. His leadership in these roles contributed significantly to the development of our nation and the betterment of countless lives.
Mr. Cruickshank’s transformative impact on South Central Windward remains a cornerstone of his legacy. During his tenure, he constructed the Greiggs and New Grounds Primary Schools, providing quality education to countless children in the constituency. He built hardcourts in San Souci, Lauders, Lowmans, and Greiggs, as well as playing fields in Lauders and North Union, fostering community development and youth engagement through sports. His commitment to improving living standards ensured that pipe-borne water was accessible to every home in his constituency. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of village roads throughout South Central Windward, connecting communities and enhancing accessibility for all. These achievements stand as a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of his constituents.
Beyond his ministerial duties, Mr. Cruickshank served as the General Secretary of the NDP, where his strategic vision and dedication helped shape the party’s direction and growth. His tireless efforts in nation-building and his unwavering commitment to the people of South Central Windward will forever be remembered as a testament to his selfless service. The NDP would like to thank his family for sharing him with us.
Dr. Godwin Friday also commented on the loss of Brother Allan saying, “today, we mourn not just the passing of a political colleague, but the loss of a dear friend, and a nation-builder. Allan Cruickshank was a man of principle, passion, and purpose. His dedication to our party and his unwavering commitment to the people of South Central Windward and our nation as a whole were unparalleled. His passing leaves a void in our hearts and in our nation, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Senator Israel Bruce, the NDP’s current candidate for the constituency of South Central Windward, also paid tribute to Mr. Cruickshank, stating: “Mr. Cruickshank was a mentor, a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for progress. His work in South Central Windward laid the foundation for the development we continue to strive for today. I am deeply inspired by his legacy and remain committed to building on the remarkable work he began. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The NDP extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Cruickshank during this difficult time. We join the nation in mourning the loss of a true patriot, a visionary leader, and a devoted servant of the people. His contributions to our party and our country will never be forgotten. May his soul Rest in Peace.
Views V Touching nature
“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” – John Muir (1838-1914) Scottish-born American naturalist, author, and early advocate of prevention of wilderness in the United States of America.
MODERN SCIENCE, and in particular, the proliferation of information via the Internet, has made it so much easier for us to understand and appreciate the sensitivities related to our fragile ecosystem. With the click of a few keys on our desktop or laptop computers we can readily learn how the biological environment can be impacted by living or non-living things in the air, soil and water. We know that we survive in a biological community that is inter-dependent. We understand that when we create an imbalance in one part of the ecosystem it has an impact on other parts of the bionetwork. For example, if we encourage behaviours that kill the coral reef, we simultaneously encourage the depletion and destruction of the fish that rely on those coral reefs for their survival. And other larger fish depend on those small fish that frequent the coral reefs for their survival. We, in turn, depend on so many of these species for food. And so, when one tugs at a single thing in nature, we find that it is attached to the rest of the world.
Arthur Roy Clapham (1904-1990) coined the term “ecosystem” in 1930. He used it to mean the combination of physical and biological components in the environment. Like John Muir, whose quotation was used to introduce this essay, Clapman loved nature. He was born in Norwich, England, and pursued studies in botany before working as a crop physiologist and later as a teacher in the botany department at Oxford University. He co-authored the 1952 publication of the “Flora of the British Isles”. His works and writings of over five decades ago still prompt us to protect and preserve our fragile environment — wherever we are.
What does all of this mean to us here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines? What does it mean to our respective neighbourhoods? What behaviours should we be engaged in at our homes to protect and preserve this beautiful place we call home (bearing in mind that every little bit helps)?
For starters we could embrace the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) challenge in relation to their 4R’s approach: Reuse, Recycle, Recover and Reduce (see their website at www.cwsasvg.com/wastetips.html for more details). We have to avoid the temptation to become a “throw away society”. Many of the plastic bags and bottles that enter our homes can be reused. And if we do not want to recycle them ourselves, we can arrange to give them to shopkeepers in the area so that they can extend the life of this most useful plastic. Egg boxes and egg flats can likewise be reused ... over and over again. Empty cans can be converted to grow seedlings for our backyard gardens. It is truly amazing how many of the items that we currently send to the landfill via our garbage containers can be reused and
recycled. Not only will this save space at the landfill, but they can actually enhance our homes and neighbourhoods. And, in many cases, grow food to adorn our tables at mealtimes.
There are some who will argue that some aspects of the recycling referred to above may appear unsanitary. For example, this argument can be advanced in relation to reusing plastic bags (depending on what they previously contained). However, in most cases these bags can be washed and left to dry before taking on a new “assignment”. The empty cans can likewise be properly cleaned before being filled with dirt and used for germinating vegetable seeds. Plastic bottles can be washed and used as water canisters or juice containers. There are so many things that we can do with these items if we are really determined to embrace the concept of reuse, recycle, recover and reduce.
Let us expand on that example of reusing the empty cans to plant vegetable seeds. Most of our homes and neighbourhoods can accommodate the planting of fruits and vegetables. These recycled tins are considered ideal for starting sweet peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers and the like. The seedlings get a good growth start and can easily be protected from insects this way. In addition, it becomes very easy to transplant the junior plants when they become large enough; once the soil is moist a little tapping of the tin will facilitate easy removal of the young plant with minimal damage to the root system. Thus, when replanted, they quickly flourish once nurtured properly. In time, we literally have a variety of home-grown fruits and vegetables. For those persons who claim not to have land space to accommodate such “gardening expeditions” it would be admirable if they still participate in the germination exercise and give the started plants to a neighbour or friend who has the space and interest to take it through the next phase of development. This, in its own way, would be a demonstration and reminder of our inter-dependence as a people. In so doing, we will be assisting in protecting and preserving our own ecosystem while building and sustaining bridges of friendship in a unique way.
Let us revisit the John Muir quotation that was used to introduce this essay: “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” When you and I pause to do little eco-friendly assignments, we discover that every little bit fits so neatly into the bigger picture. These seemingly little tasks play a much bigger role in building a better world (physically and emotionally) in our little neck of the woods. Our little touch of nature has the potential to impact the world for good.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
The Demands of our time
‘Always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.’ Elie Wiesel.
‘If you are not awe struck by the power bestowed on you, you are bound to abuse it.’ Paulo Freire.
‘We are confronted with the fierce urgency of Now. Now is not the time to take the tranquilising drug of gradualism.’ Dr Martin Luther King.
THE AUTHORS WHOSE WORDS headline this piece are renowned. They made significant contributions to history in the 20th century. Their views and opinions inspired millions of people across the globe and will continue to do so well into the future. If their names and works are unknown to some, Google them and become inspired.
Everything they said is relevant to and applicable to our current situation. We may do well to take heed.
Elie Wiesel is a Holocaust survivor who experienced the horrors of the Nazi concentration camps. His parents were carted off to certain death and lived to become an outstanding writer, Nobel laureate and political thinker.
Always take sides! Neutrality helps the oppressor and never the victim. This is a truism that all of us need to appreciate and act upon. I am fortunate to have come of age when global changes encouraged political activism and a growth in consciousness. For me, it was easy to embrace the clarion call of Vincentian activist/ ancestor Oscar Allen, ‘Be more and Do more.’
I am proud to hail Brother A as a mentor and to live this creed. As a writer and social commentator, no major issue of the day has escaped my gaze, twisted, or tied my tongue. One cannot be silent for fear he might offend. The challenge is to stand for principle and not be bent out of shape when confronted with a difficult issue.
The words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are wise: Stand for something or be prepared to fall for anything. Someone said that candor is the luxury of youth. Still, it’s also true that we hopefully get wiser as we grow older and should be prepared to take a stand without permanently being paralysed with fear and cowed into inaction. The consequences of our actions are all important, but thoughts of negative consequences must not become the be-all or end-all of our existence.
Sometimes, we have to fight, act, or speak if only to inspire ourselves and others. Sometimes, the statement ‘enough is enough’ is the most important thing that any of us must make. And so the efforts of public workers who stood firmly in defence of their right to conscience and for bodily autonomy in the face of the government’s effort to force an ineffective and unsafe vaccine on them should be applauded rather than condemned. Those citizens who
have come to an understanding of the errors in their decisions must be assisted as they say never again.
Or consider Paulo Freire, the brilliant Brazilian philosopher/educator, who exhorted us to be awestruck by power. The leaders of organisations, institutions, and countries have significant responsibilities based on their positions and the authority they command. They can make or break careers, destroy lives or nurture and create pathways for others to thrive.
We are frequently confronted with situations where leaders convince themselves they are unique and extraordinary, thus forgetting that in a democracy it is the people who have the real power. Rather than commit to becoming the people’s servants, they laud it over their subjects abusing them at every turn.
The current American president and our prime minister are striking examples of leaders who believe that the right to speak belongs only to them and their ilks. Principled disagreement on essential policy issues is almost always given an evil intent. Because of the overarching reach and influence of religious, business, and political leaders, the public sphere could witness a chilling effect, meaningful discourse stifled, and the nation suffering if they foolishly manifest authoritarian attitudes.
We have to break free from that mindset and mode of doing things. The requirements of the nation rather than the whim and fancy of our leaders must rise to the fore. Herein lies MLK’s recognition of the ‘fierce urgency of Now.’ In a crucial letter from a jail cell in Birmingham, Alabama, he argued for ‘why we cannot wait.’
The identical question confronts us as we move into a crucial election year. The government has been experimenting with our lives for the last quarter of a century. Precious little has changed except that Gonsalves and a narrow band of local and foreign elites have gotten fat gluttonously feeding at the trough.
Increasing unemployment, poverty, violent crime, homelessness, and drug addiction are an enduring scourge on the nation. Social prostitution among our young people, hopelessness and helplessness have risen to unprecedented levels.
The nation needs a reset. Such a change will not radically transform our society. It will tell those in office that they have outlived their usefulness and summon another set of leaders to the difficult task of nation building.
In my best Black Stalin voice…’ we can make it if we try, just a little bit harder.’
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to
Message from the Commonwealth WomenÊs Network on the occasion of International WomenÊs Day – 8th March, 2025
Theme –„Celebrating
THE ROOTSof International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th century, when labor movements protested against poor working conditions amid rapid industrialisation. Key milestones include the 1908 march of 15,000 women in New York City demanding better rights, and the establishment of National Woman’s Day in the United States in 1909.
In 1910, Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of International Women’s Day (IWD), leading to its first celebration in multiple countries.
Purpose of IWD
Many countries observe International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8th, including countries that have it as a national holiday. The purpose of Women’s Day is to celebrate women and address the challenges they face worldwide. This goal was addressed through four World Conferences, the last of which was held in Beijing, China in 1995.
The fruitful outcome of this Conference was a Platform of Action for the Advancement of Women
to address 12 critical areas of concern, as follows:
our Resilience – Advocating for WomenÊs Health‰
- women and poverty, education and training of women, women and health, violence against women, women and armed conflict, women and the economy, women in power and decisionmaking, human rights of women, women and the media, women and the environment, the girl child, and institutional mechanisms for advancing women. These areas represent a comprehensive list of issues requiring urgent attention and action by governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve gender equality. These are not independent issues, but inter-dependent, as the success or failure of one affects the others.
In the almost thirty years of its existence, the Beijing Platform for action has experienced slow achievement in several areas, and high levels in others, but the imbalance has led to several critical outcomes affecting women and their families.
Focus on Women and health
For this Women’s Day, the focus of the Commonwealth Women’s Network, is on the 3rd Critical Area of Concern — Women and Health, and the Crisis of NonCommunicable Diseases (NCDs).
Key NCDs include heart diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, often linked to lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use.
The issue of NonCommunicable Diseases (NCDs) in the Caribbean is a major public health concern, as the region has one of the highest prevalence of NCDs globally, with these diseases being the leading cause of death across most Caribbean countries, significantly impacting the quality of life and life expectancy in the region.
While Women are themselves Victims of these Diseases, Women are also the prime Caregivers to those affected — Men, Women and Children. Comparative data shows that Men have lower rates of health service utilisation, worse control of chronic
conditions, such as hypertension, and higher death rates from NCDs at every age. For example, men are much more likely to die from cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
In several countries the detection and control of high blood pressure is consistently worse in men compared to women.
Women in struggle for survival
Since NCDs often affect people in their productive years, there is severe socio-economic impact, leading to economic burdens on individuals and healthcare systems. What can be done? What can Women contribute to this struggle for survival? There was a time when community-based women’s groups dotted our villages and towns. There was a time when Adult Education Groups also dotted our villages and towns and contributed to the grassroots spread of information. These are some of the Communitybased and NonGovernmental Organisations that are
being buried in the term “Civil Society”. However, because of their spirit of voluntarism, they are key to the public awareness programmes that need to be rekindled at the community level.
Educating the public on the risks of NCDs and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors is an imperative, if this scourge is to be stopped.
Noted Professor Omowale AmuleruMarshall, Chair of the NCD Commission, made this profound statement“We in the Caribbean do well in developing policies and strategic plans but we are very unimpressive in migrating from plan to programme, …more
attention needs to be paid to a kind of implementation science.” This Women’s Day, let us pay attention and, going forward, apply with greater zeal “our kind of implementation science”. The Commonwealth Women’s Network calls on Women and their organisations to Celebrate Womanhood and lead the way in making sure steps towards meaningful change. Take heed also to the ancient Chinese Proverb — When Sleeping Women Awake, Mountains will Move”.
Nelcia Robinson Chair, Commonwealth Women’s Network.
International Women’s Day 2025 - Secretary-General’s MessageAntónio Guterres
WHEN THE DOORSof equal opportunity are open for women and girls, everyone wins. Equal societies are more prosperous and peaceful — and the foundation of sustainable development.
On this International Women’s Day, we recognize thirty years of progress and achievement since the landmark United Nations conference in Beijing.
This transformed the rights of women — and reaffirmed those rights as human rights. Since then, women and girls have shattered barriers, defied stereotypes, and demanded their rightful place.
But we must be clear-eyed about the challenge. From pushback to rollback, women’s human rights are under attack.
Age-old horrors — violence, discrimination and economic inequality — still plague societies. And newer threats such as biased algorithms are programming inequalities into online spaces, opening-up new arenas of harassment and abuse. Instead of mainstreaming equal rights, we’re seeing the mainstreaming of misogyny.
We must fight these outrages.
And keep working to level the playing field for women and girls.
We need action to unlock finance so countries can invest in equality — and to prioritize those investments.
Action to open-up equal opportunities for decent work, close the gender pay gap, and tackle challenges around care work.
Action to strengthen and implement laws to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
Action to secure women’s full participation in decision-making, including in peacebuilding.
And action to remove the obstacles to women and girls in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The United Nations Pact for the Future, and the Global Digital Compact offer blueprints to guide these actions.
When women and girls can rise, we all thrive. Together, let’s stand firm in making rights, equality and empowerment a reality for all women and girls, for everyone, everywhere.
Renewal of Call: Dr. John Parmenas Eustace for National Hero
by R. T. LUKE V. BROWNE
AS WE APPROACHNational Heroes Day, I renew my call for Dr. John Parmenas Eustace to be made a National Hero of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I consider Dr. Eustace to be the leading contender for that designation.
Undoubtedly, Dr. Eustace was a visionary and pioneering leader in education and national development. In the 60 years between 1911 to 1971, the government did not open a single secondary school in this country. In that same time period, J. P. Eustace as a private individual opened 3 secondary schools — The Intermediate High School (1926), the Emmanuel High School Kingstown (1952) and the Emanuel High School Mesopotamia (1963). I invite you to reflect on the fact that there was a time in this country when Dr. Eustace had more secondary schools than the government! Moreover, the Emmanuel High School Kingstown was the largest secondary school by student numbers in this country for a long time.
J. P. Eustace’s story is remarkable for many reasons. He was still almost a teenager when he set up his first secondary school. He opened the doors of that institution at the height of colonialism and had to circumvent the official policy that was viciously hostile to the provision of education to the general population. When J. P. Eustace started his first school, there were only 2 other secondary schools in the country — the elitist Grammar School and Girls’ High School. J. P. Eustace essentially entered uncharted territory by going into the arena of secondary school education as a private citizen. It was unheard of! He was a pioneer in relation to taking secondary schools to rural communities. I consider him to be the Father of the Education Revolution. He set the foundation for Universal Access to Secondary School Education in this country.
Considering the link between education and poverty reduction, J. P. Eustace helped many persons and families escape poverty.
Considering the fact that secondary education drives long run economic growth, J. P. Eustace made a monumental contribution to the economic growth and development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Indeed, I believe that he as a private
Dr. John Parmenas Eustace –visionary, committed Christian, deliverer of real needs services –contrasts with the politically slanted contributions of the others who have been advanced for National Hero Status.
individual without the resources of the government made the most exceptional contribution to national development in this country.
I said it before, and I will say it again — no person satisfies the criteria for the award of National Hero as laid down in the National Heroes Act like J. P. Eustace. I believe the facts speak for themselves.
He gave outstanding service to this country and made a contribution that altered positively the course of our history. He was a visionary and pioneering leader. Who else, as a 20year-old in colonial days, was thinking about setting up schools to educate our children? Which other individual would ever be able to say that they, at one point, had more schools than the government? What manner of man was J. P. Eustace? My goodness!
Clearly, J. P. Eustace in a most extraordinary fashion contributed to the improvement of the economic, social and political condition of Vincentians.
He is my hero and a worthy contender for National Hero. I want children to be like J. P. Eustace.
The J. P. Eustace Memorial Secondary School stands as the only ‘monument’ that embodies the selfless work of Dr. J. P. Eustace.
NDP mourns the passing of Hon. Allan Cruickshank
(Editor’s Note: The following is carried verbatim)
The New Democratic Party (NDP) is deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved party stalwart, the Honourable Allan Cruickshank, who departed this life on March 1, 2025. A towering figure in the political landscape of our nation, Mr. Cruickshank dedicated his life to public service, leaving an indelible mark on the people of South Central Windward and the entire nation.
BORN ON MAY 25, 1951, Allan Cruickshank served as a Member of Parliament for South Central Windward from 1984 to 2001, representing the NDP with unwavering commitment and integrity. His distinguished career in government saw him hold several ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Education and Health, Minister of Communications and Works, Minister of Agriculture, Industry and Labour, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tourism, and Information. His leadership in these roles contributed significantly to the development of our nation and the betterment of countless lives.
Mr. Cruickshank’s transformative impact on South Central Windward remains a cornerstone of his legacy. During his tenure, he constructed the Greiggs and New Grounds Primary Schools, providing quality education to countless children in the constituency. He built hardcourts in San Souci,
Lauders, Lowmans, and Greiggs, as well as playing fields in Lauders and North Union, fostering community development and youth engagement through sports. His commitment to improving living standards ensured that pipe-borne water was accessible to every home in his constituency. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of village roads throughout South Central Windward, connecting communities and enhancing accessibility for all. These achievements stand as a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of his constituents.
Beyond his ministerial duties, Mr. Cruickshank served as the General Secretary of the NDP, where his strategic vision and dedication helped shape the party’s direction and growth. His tireless efforts in nationbuilding and his unwavering commitment to the people of South Central Windward will forever be remembered as a testament to his selfless service. The NDP would like to thank his family for sharing him with us.
Dr. Godwin Friday also commented on the loss of Brother Allan saying, “today, we mourn not just the passing of a political colleague, but the loss of a dear friend, and a nation-builder.
Allan Cruickshank was a man of principle, passion, and purpose. His dedication to our party and his unwavering commitment to the people of South Central Windward and our nation as a whole were unparalleled. His passing leaves a void in our hearts and in our nation, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Senator Israel Bruce, the NDP’s current candidate for the constituency of South Central Windward, also paid tribute to Mr. Cruickshank, stating:
“Mr. Cruickshank was a mentor, a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for progress. His work in South Central Windward laid the foundation for the development we continue to strive for today. I am deeply inspired by his legacy and remain committed to building on the remarkable work he began. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The NDP extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mr. Cruickshank during this difficult time. We join the nation in mourning the loss of a true patriot, a visionary leader, and a devoted servant of the people.
His contributions to our party and our country will never be forgotten. May his soul Rest in Peace.
Allan Cruickshank (1951 – 2025)
PM recognizes JamesÊ exemplary leadership
“EXEMPLARYleadership” is what Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves says is being shown by Minister of Tourism Carlos James.
Dr. Gonsalves’ comment comes following Minister James’ being awarded with the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) “Excellence in Governance-Sustainable Tourism Award” while under his leadership, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has been bestowed with PATWA’s accolade of “Destination of the Year-Eco Adventures”.
Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves said the PATWA awards are relied upon to provide a requisite guidance, measurement and assessments about how tourism is going in relation to the various destinations.
“…so, when the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association pronounces on a jurisdiction, being a jurisdiction of quality, and when it pronounces that the minister, being a minister of excellence in governance, I reiterate that we are on the right track,” Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves commented recently.
Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves said that when you have an independent body like PATWA give both SVG and the tourism minister an award of destination of the year, and excellence in governance, what is being indicated through these independently awarded accolades is that we are on a path where we are doing some things right.
“It has been the policy of the government for us to make our tourism optimally sustainable and selfsustaining,” Dr. Gonsalves said recently while stressing that this independent recognition is a testament to the effectiveness of the country’s tourism policies and the dedicated efforts of Minister James and his team, who he said “are doing a remarkable job.”
Notwithstanding the accomplishments to date, Dr. Gonsalves cautioned, “We have to make sure that the tourism is sustainable in relation to the environment, that we don’t spoil the environment in the production of our services and goods.
He said our plan is derived from the sense and sensibility of our Caribbean and Vincentian civilizations and these things are matters which PATWA recognized when they gave these particular awards.
“There are the things which you do not see physically, but which are there. The way in which our people, because of the education revolution, people are being better trained and are easily more trainable.
“People understand the significance of tourism, and the farmers and fisherfolk and craftsmen and entertainers are coming in and playing their role in this real, giant effort where tourism is becoming a more vital part of the economic growth and development of the country,” Dr.
Gonsalves said while highlighting the critical role of Vincentians in shaping the industry.
Addressing the economic resilience of the tourism sector, Dr. Gonsalves acknowledged concerns about external dependencies but reinforced that tourism remains a pillar of the country’s development.
He stressed that under the leadership of James and his team, the necessity of eco-friendly development, alternative energy sources, and responsible construction practices to preserve the nation’s pristine environment is being looked at.
“These are not just another set of awards,” Dr. Gonsalves stated. “These are awards provided by a reputable international body, acknowledging that Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is on the right path in sustainable tourism.”
(Submitted by: SVGTA)
Carlos James receives the PATWA Tourism Minister of the year.
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves in highlighting the work of Minister James and his team, used the occasion to strike home the importance of Tourism to the economy.
March 8th International Women’s Day
Highlighting Peggy Antrobus – Caribbean Woman extraordinaire
by MARALYN BALLANTYNE LLB. Hons.
PEGGY ANTROBUShas a long and impressive record of public service to the Caribbean region and the international feminist community. In 1974, when she was appointed advisor on Women’s Affairs to the government of Jamaica, under the then prime minister, Michael Manley, I had already observed her interest in contributing to development in our Caribbean region. In many ways, 1974 marks the beginning of the development of her feminist consciousness. Peggy says, that hitherto, she knew nothing at all about feminism. Dear readers, permit me to open in Vincentian dialect, as it best captures my sentiment: ‘When it come to Peggy, ‘ah dorn no way fo start!’
Giving organization to her mission
In 1985, Peggy set up the Caribbean Association for Feminist Research and Action (CAFRA), of which I am a founding member, inspired by Peggy’s vision. In 1987, she established the Women and Development Unit (WAND) at the University of the West Indies (UWI), where she served as its head until 1995, elevating its stature and influence.
Peggy was a founding member of Development Alternatives for Women in a New Era (DAWN), serving as General Coordinator from 1990 to 1996 and as a member of its steering committee until 2004.
A global feminist and one of the pioneering voices for women’s rights in the Caribbean, she continues to be actively engaged in life. She is the author of The Global Women’s Movement: Origins, Issues, and Strategies (Zed Books, 2004), a seminal work that examines the intersections of gender, economics, and global politics.
It was through the many gatherings of Caribbean women, organized by Peggy during her work with UWI in the 1980s, that I came into close contact with so many like-minded people–writers, poets, activists, and creatives–including Caribbean writers; Olive Senior, Jamaica Kincaid, Elizabeth Nunez. These were not just meetings; they were gatherings of intellectual and creative energies that catalyzed our collective spirit of activism.
Peggy had a unique ability to bring people together, creating spaces where ideas could be born and fed, where everyone, regardless of status or background, felt empowered to speak their truth.
Her presence, her impact - keeping discussion alive
Peggy’s worldview of women and her focus on gender equity and related policy issues, had a significant impact on me. Her influence shaped my own understanding of women’s issues and guided my work with the United Nations, on gender and equity
matters. I remember discussions on how the role of women in the Caribbean is tied to the survival of our societies–not just as caregivers but as pivotal economic actors.
Peggy’s conviction in the economic value of women’s labor was a revelation to many of us who had internalized the invisibility of that work.
Peggy, still full of life and ideas today at the age of 90, aims to surpass her beloved mother, who lived in Trinidad until the age of 105 . During the COVID-19 pandemic, Peggy, though in retirement, was an active participant in Zoom sessions, demonstrating her determination to persevere even in difficult times. She focused on how feminist activists could respond to emerging opportunities, especially as the pandemic threatened to derail Caribbean economies. Her central point was, and still is, how to guide Caribbean development toward a more equitable and sustainable future. She argues for rethinking our economic models, pointing out that the pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of a system dependent on tourism and external debt.
Our conversations often return to the changing contexts of feminism during the 1980s and 1990s. One topic we discussed was the question of funding for non-governmental organizations, particularly advocacy groups. In many countries, government approval is required before funding can be granted, which creates barriers. To this day, funders are not favourable towards projects focused on social justice advocacy.
Peggy reminds of the Haitian situation, where the poorest citizens put Jean-Bertrand Aristide in power, only for civil society organizations–many funded by the U.S. government–to undermine and eventually oust him. This is not just a historical anecdote for Peggy; it is a stark reminder of how international politics could be manipulated to serve hegemonic interests, often at the expense of the people who need the most support.
Vincentian women’s rights activists, Nelcia Robinson, Jeannie Mc Donald and others are carrying on the fight and deserve support, as we
struggle with violence against women here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
When I boarded a plane to Mexico in 1975 for the first-ever conference on women, supported by Agnes Cato–an outstanding Vincentian woman lawyer of blessed memory–I knew, prescient as I am, that to get action on uplifting the status of women in the Caribbean, someone like Peggy was needed. Upon Peggy’s formal entry into the arena, it felt as if a prayer had been answered. Her voice brought coherence to our collective desires, her insights grounded our activism in both theory and practice, and her commitment to social justice created the fire that kept gender issues on the front burner. We had talked about women’s issues, especially vulnerable women, on Peggy’s visits to my mother-in-law, of precious memory, Olive Ballantyne, a genuine out of the limelight champion for the rights and interests of women, in particular, young girls; Olive took many girls into her home, cared them, loved them, educated them and lifted their self-esteem.
Her message for women
Peggy stresses that men should take an interest in women’s issues and that our Caribbean people in the diaspora have an important role to play in uplifting our women living in the Caribbean. Peggy Antrobus embodies the spirit of Caribbean feminism–grounded, resilient, unapologetic, and
striving for a better, more equitable world.
Peggy has a message here-
“Women’s advocacy against violence is often too polite and too muted. Where is the sense of outrage that can galvanize us into action? Surely the sources of that passion lie in women’s own experiences of violence and violation.
It was only when my two sisters were murdered by the boyfriend of one (as she tried to leave him) and my son’s fiancee was murdered as she tried to resist a rapist, that I realized the extent to which my commitment to the movement for justice for women is driven by such acts of violence. When women try to claim bodily integrity they often place their lives in jeopardy.
I continue to be a major advocate for economic justice, but I do not separate gender justice from economic justice. Sexuality and reproductive rights and health, including freedom from violence, are the foundation of women’s ability to engage in the political struggle against inequality and injustice, not just for women but for everyone.”
Dr. Peggy Antrobus (right) being interviewed on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of the Institute for Gender and Development, UWI , which was a direct result of a regional meeting called by Peggy Antrobus of the Women and Development Unit (WAND).
Dr. Peggy Antrobus, third recipient of the CARICOM Triennial Award in 1990, has a true Caribbean crossnational identity.
The writer, Maralyn Ballantyne (2nd from left) regards her interaction with Dr. Peggy Anbrobus (left) as impacting to the point of helping to form her outlook and attitudes to many of life’s challenges.
SVG: „Destination of the Year – Eco Adventures‰
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINEScontinues its award-winning streak as a leading nature destination following the announcement of the “Destination of the Year –Eco Adventures” Award. This prestigious recognition was presented to St. Vincent and the Grenadines by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel
Awards Council during the Internationale Tourismus Börse (ITB) Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade fair, taking place from March 4th to 6th, 2025.
Continued on Page 20.
Right: St. Vincent and the Grenadines is renowned for its pristine beaches among a variety of natural attractions.
SVG: “Destination of the Year – Eco Adventures”
Continued from Page 19.
PATWA, a globally recognized professional organization and an affiliate member of UN Tourism, annually acknowledges outstanding contributions in the travel and tourism industry during the ITB Berlin trade fair, which attracts around 10,000 exhibitors from over 180 countries and regions.
The recognition of this accolade further showcases St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ commitment to balancing economic prosperity with environmental preservation, setting a precedent for sustainable tourism practices in the
Caribbean and beyond. It is the second successive international award for the island in recent months. In 2024, the destination also won the World Travel Awards’ Best Nature Destination, reinforcing its position as a premier choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Hon. Carlos James, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture expressed gratitude for the recognition stating, “We are honoured to receive the ‘Destination of the Year — Eco Adventures’ award from PATWA. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to
sustainable tourism and our dedication to preserving St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ pristine natural beauty. As we continue to promote responsible travel, we remain focused on protecting our rich biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can experience the unspoiled landscapes that make our islands truly unique.”
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with its 32 islands and cays, is renowned for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, marine sanctuaries, and thriving wildlife. Visitors can engage in eco-adventure experiences such as
hiking La Soufrière volcano, exploring Vermont and Cumberland Nature Trails, discovering Dark View Falls, and birdwatching. The island’s black, gold, and white sand beaches offer secluded, untouched shorelines that provide immersive natural experiences.
CEO of SVG Tourism Authority, Annette Mark noted that award affirms our dedication to protecting our paradise while also developing SVG’s tourism industry.
“Through sustainable initiatives, conservation programmes, and the development of ecofriendly experiences, we
strive to ensure that visitors can explore our lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and vibrant marine ecosystems while supporting local communities,” Mark said. As travellers increasingly seek destinations that prioritize sustainability and unique natural experiences, St. Vincent and the Grenadines continues to stand out as a model for responsible tourism. Visitors can actively contribute to conservation efforts that maintain the island’s environmental integrity while enjoying some of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking landscapes. (Submitted by: SVGTA)
Annette Mark, CEO/SVGTA considers the award as affirmation of DVG dedication to protecting its natural beauty amidst a developing tourism industry.
Our Patrimony: Through the prism of our own eyes
The process of creolisation and social integration in our Caribbean (including SVG) society has had hard roads to
travel; and there are many more rivers to cross. But we have achieved success in moving from the social divisiveness and separateness in a culturally plural society, through heterogenous transitions towards a more or less integrated or homogenous society, though suffused with social stratification (class, status, power relations), but still solidified with a core of shared, uplifting values.
During the slave epoch (enslaved African bodies) of our Caribbean history, subsequent years of indentureship (Madeirans and East Indians) and the following decades well into the first 40 or so years of the 20th century, to a greater or lesser degree there was a culturally plural society in which the respective racial, ethnic or cultural sections had its own relatively distinct pattern of sociocultural integration, kept together largely by colonialism’s coercion and imposed Anglo-Saxon verities. Over time, through the fever of history, inclusive of economic alterations, and the integrative force of human biology, the barriers of the plural society dissolved and a heterogeneity set in enroute to a more homogenous society in cultural terms but enwrapped nevertheless in a social stratification based on class, status, and power though still overlaid with the ethnic/cultural scars of the earlier periods.
Our sociologists and writers of the creative imagination have repeatedly pronounced on this process of creolisation and the challenges therein.
Our Nobel Prize winning poet Derek Walcott of St. Lucia highlighted one aspect of this in his poem “A Far Cry from Africa”:
“I am who am poisoned with the blood of both, Where shall I turn, divided to the vein? I who have cursed
The drunken officer of British rule, how choose
Between this Africa and the English tongue I love?
Betray them both, or give back what they give?”
Similarly, in “The Schooner Flight”, Derek Walcott’s Shabine muses: “I’m just a red nigger who love the sea, I had a sound colonial education, I have Dutch, nigger, and English in me, and neither I’m nobody or I’m a nation.”
This matter of identity and belonging becomes even more complicated among Caribbean people who migrate to North America and Britain. A powerful female poetic voice on these twin subjects comes from an educator and poet, Grace Nichols (a Guyanese who migrated to Britain and lives there), in her “Wherever I Hang”:
“To tell you de truth I don’t really know where I belaang “Yes, divided to de ocean Divided to de bone Wherever I hang me knickers –that’s my home.”
SPECIFIC ULP INITIATIVES ON OUR PATRIMONY/HERITAGE
In the broad area of the defence and promotion of our patrimony and our uplifting legacy, the ULP government has taken the following, and other, initiatives since 2001:
* Passage of several legislative measures including those relating to National Heroes; the National Flag; National Coat of Arms and National Anthem; Emancipation Day (August 1st); Indian Arrival Day; Spiritual Baptists Recognition Day/National
Holiday; Carnival Development Corporation;
* Repealing the law on the selling of our citizenship and passports;
* Revamping and strengthening the Department of Culture;
* Saving steelband music; reviving Panorama after 4 years of NDP neglect; building out Pan Against Crime; Pan in schools and the communities;
* Taking Carnival to an unprecedented higher level in all areas of cultural activity;
* Restoring Peace Memorial Hall as a cultural centre; developing other locales for cultural performances (Learning Resource Centres; auditorium at SVGCC; redeveloping Victoria Park for cultural events; current plans for cultural centres in North Central Windward and North Leeward;
* Enhancing markedly culture in schools (dance, drama, choral speaking, pan, music);
* Commissioning a comprehensive history of SVG;
* Building awareness of cultural contributions of Garifuna, Callinago, Africa, India, Europe to SVG; Balliceaux has been acquired by the State as part of our vital patrimony; the acquisition was effected on March 4, 2025;
* Leading the regional quest at CARICOM, for reparations for native genocide and the enslavement of African bodies; establishment of National Reparations Commission;
* Encouraging in practical terms young novelists, poets, and other authors;
* Building links with Africa and India globally; official visits to Africa by government ministers and officials; Prime Minister addressing the Arican Union on three occasions (in Ethiopia, Libya, Uganda); awards granted by African entities to Comrade Ralph; building the A3 Plus One (African 3 plus SVG) at the United Nations Security Council; work at the UN General Assembly with Africa, India, Latin America; Pro-Tempore Presidency of CELAC; Advancing Africa-CARICOM relations; Proposal advanced for the ABCD Commission (Africa, Brazil, Caribbean, Diaspora Commission); Prime Minister’s visit to India; multiple visits to Africa: African and Indian leaders’ visits to SVG;
* Welcoming Nigerian and other African medical students to SVG; Scholarships in nursing granted by SVG to students from Ghana.
* Educating the population on an ongoing basis of the history of SVG, the Caribbean, Africa, India, Europe, Latin America, and elsewhere.
* Encouraging the use of the UWI, Global Campus, SVG, to advance public education on culture and the arts; the government of SVG services the EC$16 million debt of UWI to the Caribbean Development Bank for the Global Campus, SVG;
* Providing a high-quality passport for our citizens and refusing to sell our patrimony (passports and citizenship) to foreigners for the proverbial “mess of pottage”.
„He beats me constantly‰
Dear George,
MY SISTER complains that her husband beats her constantly, e.g. if his meals are not prepared on time; if she doesn’t oblige when he wants sex; if she says she admires a male actor on TV.
She says that she is afraid that he will kill her and he has already threatened her life. She also says that he has a well-sharpened cutlass put aside and says, “this is to kill you if you open your mouth,” about him beating her.
She asked me to help her but I do not know how I can since I am no longer living in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Is there a way to help her from here?
Concerned Sister.
Dear Concerned Sister,
It is good that your sister reached out to you. Perpetrators of domestic violence most times succeed in silencing their victims.
It is a good thing that more and more women are breaking the silence. Encourage your sister to go to the police and make a report. The cutlass could be used as evidence if it can be presented.
If she needs support in going to the police, she can talk to someone at The Marion House.
Continue to support her as best as you can.
Overly generous husband
Dear George,
I CANNOTget my husband to stop lending out his money to all kinds of people and not getting it back. We are catching our skin but he is there giving his money and is afraid to ask back for his money. When I volunteer to collect it, he objects.
Recently he lent half the rent money to some woman whom he said was being evicted. The woman I know has a boyfriend who is the
child’s father. I know he is working. My husband can’t see that this woman is using him. For him “God will provide.” He is gullible and naïve. I don’t know how much longer I can stay with this man. It is one thing to have a soft heart, but it is another thing to be stupid.
Reality Check
Dear Reality Check,
You and your husband need to be on the same
page at all times. Home expenses ought to take priority above everything else. One person should never engage in any activity that would affect the smooth running of your home expenses.
Your husband should never allow himself to be tricked into giving his money away. Have a sit down with him and give him the chance to wise up. It is up to him to make good use of such a chance.
George.
Back to my Ex for sex
Dear George,
IHAVEan addiction problem. I left my previous boyfriend two years ago but I keep going back to him to get another taste of the tool God has blessed him with. He knows I am addicted to it and that is why he obliges. We do not have feelings for each other anymore and he understands it’s just straight sex and nothing else. I do not feel I’m cheating on my boyfriend because there is no emotional involvement and besides, my boyfriend is sadly lacking in that area. Please tell me how I can wean myself from my Ex. Wanting More.
Dear Wanting More,
You need to decide what you want. Do you want a productive relationship with the man you now have which includes working on improving your sex life? If so, you must quit looking back and falling prey to the past. However, if you think
that what you have now is not what you want then be honest with him and tell him that.
And yes, what you are doing is called cheating which will do no good for safeguarding your current relationship. It’s only when you know what you want will you settle down to be building on it.
George.
George.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Maybe it's time to look into ways you can improve your health. Changes at home might come fast and furious. A passionate party for two might be just the remedy. Organize your day to avoid any setbacks that might ignite temper flare-ups.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Investments are best left alone this week. You will be overly sensitive when dealing with your personal life. Travel should open doors that lead to exciting new adventures. You will enjoy interacting with those who come from different backgrounds.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
You can learn a great deal if you listen to those who are older or more experienced. Your dynamic, determined approach will win favors as well as a helping hand. You must steer clear of overindulgent individuals. Go out with friends.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Don't hesitate to enlist the aid of friends or family if you have a big project to finish in your domestic environment. You will be overly sensitive when dealing with your personal life. You hard work and dedication will payoff, so stick to your guns and do your job well. Do not expect others to do your work.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Your emotions may get the better of you. Career changes may not be your choice right now, but in the long run they will be to your advantage. Travel will stimulate your need to experience exciting new things. Sign up for courses that will help you understand yourself better.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Your involvement with children will be most rewarding. Secret affairs will only lead to heartache. Pleasure trips will promote new romantic encounters. Networking will be a necessity.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Jealous coworkers may try to sabotage your attempts to get ahead. Be aware of any deception on the part of those you deal with. Don't give them the use of your credit card. Don't bother getting even; they'll make themselves look bad
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Your involvement with groups will raise your self esteem. Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies. You can learn valuable information if you listen and observe what others are doing and saying. Exercise programs will be effective.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
Communicate with relatives who may need advice in order to find solutions to their existing problems. Catch up on your correspondence and reading. Opportunities to get together with people in powerful positions could help you get ahead. You should be promoting your ideas.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
You can expect changes in your financial situation as well as in your status. Have some fun, but draw the line if someone tries to fast talk their way into your heart. Real estate investments will be extremely profitable in the long run. Your outgoing nature will win hearts.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)
Include the whole family or those you love. New relationships could evolve through group activities. Your family may not be pleased with your decisions. Don't jump the gun; you may find yourself getting angry at the wrong person.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
ACROSS
1.St. Louis footballer 4. “__ Grant” 7. Head covering 11. Model Carol 12. Carries laboriously 14. Staff officer 15. Legendary Indian chief
17. Crow
18. “Oz” aunt et al.
19. Heronlike bird
21. “The Lion King” lion
24. Tied a bow
27. School gps.
28. Mayor’s domain
29. “Norma __”
30. Lab animal
31. Grand dances
32. Airport inits.
33. Pub order
34. Like a Bohemian
35. Actor Hogan
36. Ruthless rulers
38. Walks with a sprained ankle
40. Bombshell West 41. Non-union worker
43. Gifted ones
48. Threshold 49. Emulated Sinatra
50. Canadian prov. 51. Pry 52. Burnt remains 53. Unit of weight
DOWN
1.Football cheer
2. Muhammad
39. “__ Lonesome I Could Cry” (2 wds.)
3. NYC transit org. 4. Camel’s cousin 5. Perfect game’s 27 6. Cry of disgust 7. Riding costume 8. Auto body designer’s concern 9. Director Lupino 10. Standard
13. Pious 16. Spiders’ homes
20. The Beach
21. Young herring
22. Rome’s home
23. Fabrics
24. Highlanders’ garments
25. Enjoy thoroughly (2 wds.)
26. Distributes cards
28. Cardboard boxes
31. Forbids
You can make money if you put your savings into conservative investments. You may want to talk to your boss about your future goals. People who try to persuade you to do things their way will annoy you. You may have taken on a little too much, but you will enjoy every minute of it. (abbr.)
38. Chuckle
40. Alps, e.g. (abbr.)
41. ID digits
42. AFL’s
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
35. Wharf
Walk at a slow pace
partner
Highest minorleague level
Fitting 46. Author Tolstoy 47. Confessor’s burden (2 wds.)
More Carifta A standard qualifications
THE LIST OF ATHLETES
ATTAINING THE A qualification standards set by Team Athletics SVG for the 2025 Carifta Games grew over the weekend.
This, when the Lennox Adams Trials were held Saturday March 1 and Sunday March 2, at the Diamond Track Facility.
In an unprecedented occurrence for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, four athletes made the A standard in the Under-20 Boys 100m.
Among the quartet running under the 10.80s mark, was Keo Davis, who in the heats clocked 10.77s and in the final timed 10.43.
In Saturday’s hotly contested final, Davis was followed by AJ Delpesche- 10.50s, J’ Mar Saunders- 10.74s and Delron Delpesche — 10.74s, as he upgraded his B standard time.
These qualifiers join J’avair Cato, who has an A standard in the Under-20 Boys Triple Jump, and Tedre O’ Neil, who has the Pole Vault standard.
L-R: Delron Delpesche – 10.74s - qualified for the U20 Boys 100m and J’Mar Saunders- 10.74s – made the A mark in the U20 Boys 100m.
Thus far, all qualifiers except Delron Delpesche and Jacobs have Carifta experience.
Before last weekend’s meet, Davis qualified for the 200m, while AJ Delpesche ran under the standards set in both the 100 and 200m. Delpesche though, went faster in the 200m on Sunday with a 21.38s clocking.
Also on Sunday, Leemore Ollivierre, who
previously had a B standard in the Under-17 Boys 200m, went better when he ran 21.88s, going under the 22.00s minimum mark.
Also inking her name with an A standard time was Shaquania Jacobs, whose 24.68s clocked on Sunday in the Under-20 Girls 200m, equalled the qualifying time.
According to Team Athletics SVG, athletes who achieve the A standards are almost assured final selection, whilst those with B standards are down for consideration.
So far, three athletes have made the B standards- Trevel Sylvan in the Under-20 Boys High Jump; Zichri Hepburn, the Under-20 Boys 1500m and 5000m and Rishaun Phillipsthe Under-17 Boys Triple Jump.
SVG to defend LQ Classic Title
A SEVEN-MEMBER TABLE
TENNIS team will represent this country at the Grenada LQ Sports Classic Invitational Junior Tournament, scheduled for March 7th to 9th, 2025.
The squad was selected after a two-day national tournament held by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association, and comprises Lamont Gregg - Age 15, Jessica McCarter - Age 17 (Currently in Grenada), Terence Ashton - Age 15, Loukhya Premraj - Age 12, Oran-Jay Williams - Age 12, Kimoni Shoy - Age 16, Macahlie Hazelwood - Age 14. Romano Spencer is the team’s coach.
The players will participate in the Boys & Girls U13, U15, U19, Open Doubles and the newly added Mix Teams event.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines had an outstanding performance
at last year’s tournament claiming victory in all but one age category, i.e. the U13 Boys Singles, in which there was no Vincentian participant.
Next on the list of regional competitions for the junior table tennis players is the Caribbean Youth Table Tennis Championships, to be held in Barbados from 20th to 26th April 2025.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Those athletes and others will be looking to participating in the upcoming InterSecondary Schools Athletics Championships, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s Athletics Championships, to
improve their standards.
The 2025 Carifta Games are set for the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago, April 19 to 21.
At the 2024 hosting of the Carifta Games in Grenada, St. Vincent and Grenadines ended without a podium finish.
Compton breaks national 60m record
IT TOOK MC KISH
COMPTON just seven days to declare himself the single holder of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ best recorded time for the Men’s outdoor 60m.
The 28-yearold Compton accomplished this when he ran 6.67s on March 1, 2025, at the GC Foster track in Spanish Town.
Mc Kish Compton – national record holder for the 60m outdoor.
One week prior, Compton had run 6.69s at the Gibson/Mc Cook Relays at the National Stadium, earning him joint record holder status with Earl Simmons.
In his last outing, Compton, who represents Sprint Tec, had timed 6.75s in the heats, before clocking his record-breaking effort in the final. Compton opened 2025 with a 6.81s in the 60m, before lowering to 6.72s, doing so on January 11 and 18, respectively.
The Vincentian sprinter’s personal best in the 100m is 10.37s and 21.65s in the 200m.
Locally, Compton has represented the X- Cel Track Club, whose head coach is Rawlson Morgan.
Right: Jessica McCarter, one of the senior Vincentian players, will be hoping to inspire her team to a repeat tournament victory.
Leemore Ollivierre, improved from a B standard to an A standard in the U1 Boys 200m.
Shaquania Jacobs, equaled the qualifying time for the A standard in the U20 Girls 200m.
Maloney inks new ambassadorial role
1ST NATIONAL BANK ST. LUCIA LTD. has announced a partnership with Vincentian Olympian
Shafiqua Maloney. She joins the 1st National Bank Team as a Brand Ambassador for
its St. Vincent Branch and will do so for the next two years.
In so doing, Shafiqua joins with Julien Alfred, the St. Lucian 100m Olympic Gold medallist, who has re-signed as Bank Ambassador.
Shafiqua, 25-year-old middle-distance athlete, finished 4th in the women’s 800m at the Paris Olympics, putting St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the world map.
When asked about her new partnership with 1st National Bank, Shafiqua was elated. “This Partnership means so much to me. First, it’s recognition of my hard
More incentives for netballers
NETBALLERS
participating in the 2025 National Netball Tournament, apart from seeking a spot on the team have added individual rewards to aim at.
President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball AssociationNatasha Baptiste, gave an insight into the perks that are available, when she spoke at Press Conference at the Carnival Development Corporation’s Office, held Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
work that such an institution would want to partner with me to promote their message. Second, to be affiliated with a brand that Julien Alfred, The Olympic Champion, also bears is even more exciting but also motivating. And third, it helped me to further promote my platform which I am extremely grateful for.”
“This partnership with Shafiqua is truly a significant milestone” said Tishanna Jeffers the Marketing and Communications Manager of 1st National Bank. She continued, “1st National Bank being an indigenous bank and is committed to the uplifting of our islands’ people and their development. Sports is an avenue that supports this cause, and we will continue to do out part to ensure this message is well received. This partnership with Shafiqua will not only help cement the banks position with the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines but also to show them our commitment as we have
done in St. Lucia. In addition to being a national track record holder, Shafiqua, a Thomas Saunders Secondary School alumna, has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and an MSc in Operations Management. She was named a Sporting Ambassador for St. Vincent and the Grenadines during the 45th (2024) Independence Celebrations.
I.B.A.ALLEN
March 22, at the Kingstown Netball Centre, with a total of thirty listed to compete, across the five divisions.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINESlost to Grenada 1-3 in the inaugural Chatoyer Bilateral Invitational Chess Competition held in 2024, but the expectation is that the Vincentians will have a better showing and even reversed the results, when the second edition is convened.
The two countries will meet again from March 14 to 16, at the Murray Heights Hotel, Kingstown.
According to Baptiste, “The Most Promising Player in the Youth Development Division will receive Junior Savers Account at the BOSVG, compliments the St. Vincent Brewery Ltd. Coastal Adrenaline and Coastal Grill will also partner with us as part sponsor of the Male Division also to award vouchers to our players of the week. These individuals will also receive products from St. Vincent Brewery Ltd.”
And with continuing focus on youth development, Baptiste announced, “This year once again one secondary school graduate netballer will have the opportunity to receive a two-year scholarship at the SVG Community College to continue their educational development.
The 2025 BOSVG National Netball Tournament is set to open Saturday,
Like 2024, this year’s tournament will see the competition for honours in Division One, Division Two, Division Three, along with the Vitamalt Youth Development Division and Coastal Adrenaline Male Division.
Title sponsor, Bank of SVG has pumped in $30 000 for this year’s tournament.
In making a plea for more corporate support, Baptiste beckoned, “We would love to see all the Divisions being sponsored so that we can offer more to our athletes”.
Also addressing the Press Conference were Patricia John of BOSVG, Kimon Baptiste — St Rose, who spoke on behalf of the St. Vincent Brewery Limited and Dr. Orando Brewster - Minister of Housing, Informal Settlement, Youth and Sports.
Speaking at a Press Conference last Monday, March 3, at the Bruce Law Chambers Inc., Manager of the Vincentian outfit and Public Relations Officer of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Chess Federation - Orisia Robinson, exuded confidence in the Vincentian team’s prospects.
“This year proves to be a more exciting year. We have seen a lot of improvements from our players over the last few months, and through training Saturday mornings and Saturday afternoons at the Cruise Ship Terminal, the improvement levels are rising”.
Robinson also informed that the students from the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School’s programme, will be among the “reserves” during the course of the championships.
Her confidence in the host country’s team is bolstered by the experience gained by Arianna Balcombe from her participation in the Chess Olympiad in 2024 in Budapest, Hungary.
Balcombe was a member of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines team at the inaugural Grenada-SVG series last year.
Supporting Robinson’s positive
outlook was Kazene Pierre, the Secretary/ Treasurer of the SVG Chess Federation, who echoed Robinson’s sentiments saying inter alia, “We have a broader cadre of young players this year. All of them have been participating in the training programme, so they should be at a respectable level”.
Pierre is hopeful that the upcoming bilateral series will focus the spotlight on Chess and draw corporate as well as other support.
“We are still in our embryonic stage, but a lot of persons tend to gravitate, like sponsors do to those sports that attract a lot of viewers. However, I think as time progresses and they see what impact and benefit that Chess has for everyone not just students and the youths, after a while they will get on board”, Pierre projected.
A six-member St. Vincent and the Grenadines team and reserved will be released on the weekend when the players go through their final practices.
Vincentian Olympian Shafiqua Moloney is now a 1st National Bank Brand Ambassador.
Natasha Baptiste (left) accepts symbolic sponsorship cheque from representatives of Bank of SVG.
There has been a clear show of increased interest in chess as can be seen in the recent chess club formed at the St. Martin’s Secondary School.
SVG confident ahead of chess duel
Kazene Pierre (left) and Orisia Robinson (right).
Moving closer to a semi-pro league
THE MOVEtowards establishing a semiprofessional football league here took a step closer to realization, when football officials and the Minister of Sport held discussions in this regard.
The meeting, involving Executive Members of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation and Dr. Orando BrewsterMinister of Sport, was held at the La Vue Conference Room.
THE VINCENTIAN was informed that the meeting addressee areas such as the structure of the League, renumeration package for clubs and related officials, training and uniforms, and a tentative date for the commencement of the league
anticipated to accommodate ten clubs.
Dominque Stowe, 1st Vice President of the SVGFF and Chairman of the Tournaments Committee, said he fully endorsed this vision of a SemiProfessional League in SVG.
“It’s a welcome idea by our government and the SVGFF to collaborate in such vision for our footballers. I must say semiprofessional soccer league is a level of competition that sits between amateur and fully professional leagues.”
Stowe went on to outline some key characteristics of a semi-professional league:
“Players in semi-professional leagues often receive some form of compensation for their participation, but it may not be enough to make soccer their sole source of income. The competition in semi-professional leagues can vary widely, with some teams featuring former professional players, college athletes, and talented amateurs. The level of play is generally higher than that of amateur
leagues but lower than fully professional leagues. Semiprofessional clubs have limited resources and smaller budgets for player salaries, coaching staff, and facilities. They can still have dedicated fan bases and community support. Semi-professional leagues serve as a steppingstone for players
aspiring to reach higher levels of the sport, including professional leagues. These leagues can exist at various levels of the soccer pyramid and could be community-base, thus allowing for local rivalries and community engagement.”
I.B.A. ALLEN
Regional 4-day Cricket: Guyana aiming to remain on to top
TABLE-LEADERS
Guyana Harpy Eagles will be eyeing a restart win today, Mare. 05, when the 4th round of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 4-Day Championships continues at Sabina Park, Jamaica versus the Scorpions.
After some weeks off following three intense rounds, action resumes today as the defending champions look to push forward with their title defence.
Opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul, who missed the previous round due to injury, returns to the Eagles team as he will look to add to the team’s overall batting form.
Since returning from Test duties, Captain Tevin Imlach has been Guyana’s best and leading batsman heading into today’s game.
All-rounder Kevin Sinclair has yet to show out but could easily use this round to get himself going in both departments, especially with most of his premier teammates scoring significant runs or producing matchwinning spells.
After three rounds, the champs have figured out their bowling options, thanks to a number of performers including leading wicket-taker Veerasammy Permaul.
The left-arm spinner alongside his younger partner in left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, with help from Sinclair, should look to control the
next few rounds.
The Scorpions lost their last two games, making this encounter a dangerous one for the champs, with a much-needed positive outcome desperately needed by the home team.
Javelle Glenn is fresh off a second innings fifty and will be called upon to stabilize the middle-order. Skipper John Campbell will need to provide a good start at the top of the order, with players like Kirk McKenzie, Jason Blackwood and a hard-hitting Odean Smith, being key men with the bat for Jamaica.
The ball-handlers for Jamaica have been decent this season, with offspinner Brad Barnes bagging six wickets in round 3 against a formidable Barbados batting line-up. Barnes, along with spinner Jeavor Royal, veteran fast-bowler Marquino Mindley and medium-pacer Smith, will have their work cut out against an in-form Harpy Eagles.
Other matches scheduled to begin on Mar. 5 are: Windward island Volcanoes versus Leeward Island Hurricanes at the Darren Sammy Cricket Stadium, St. Lucia; West Indies Academy versus Trinidad and Tobago red Force at Coolridge Cricket Ground, Antigua; Barbados Pride versus Combined Campuses and Colleges at Kensington Oval, Barbados. (Keiter News)
Dominque Stowe - 1st Vice President of the SVGFF.
Members of the SVGFF executive/ officials and the Minister of Sports Dr. Orando Brewster (left) in discussion.
Guyana Harpy Eagles will go into their match against the Jamaican Scorpions with their tails up.
Dr. Shallow returned as CWI President
From Backpage
President Shallow expressed gratitude for the continued thrust placed in him, stating: “Being unopposed for a second term is a strong endorsement of the leadership and direction we have taken at Cricket West Indies. It speaks to the level of confidence in our vision and the progress we have made in stabilizing and advancing West Indies cricket.”
He continued, “Now, we must build on that progress, staying focused on the task at hand and not allowing ourselves to be distracted from our ultimate goal. We are one in purpose, working together for the betterment of West Indies cricket.”
And in recommitting to the task ahead, Dr. Shallow said, “I understand full well the responsibility that comes
with this position, and I remain committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and good governance.”
In expressing his heartfelt appreciation, Dr. Shallow said, “I want to sincerely thank the Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Board and the Leeward Islands Cricket Board for their nomination, as well as all our stakeholders for their continued support. It is truly humbling to serve in this capacity, and I do not take this trust lightly.”
Vice President Bassarath echoed similar sentiments, saying: “It would be a privilege to continue serving as Vice President of Cricket West Indies. The passion and dedication of everyone involved in our cricketing ecosystem inspires me every day.”
He recommitted to ensuring that decisions
are made that benefit players, fans, and the future of West Indies cricket, and thanked members for their confidence.
Editor’s Note: Dr. Shallow’s tenure as President of CWI simultaneous to his candidacy in the next general election in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has come under scrutiny by SVG Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who has advanced the position that Dr. Shallow should not be allowed to serve as president of a regional organization, while he is actively involved in party politics in his homeland.
Gonsalves.
Dr. Shallow’s confirmation for another term as CWI President, speaks to compliance with that organization’ constitution, which does not address Dr. Shallow’s situation as raised by Dr.
Unless there is an overwhelming public outcry to have Dr. Shallow removed as President of CWI, or whether he chooses to resign as President or withdraw as a general election candidate, one can assume that Dr. Shallow, simultaneously, will continue undeterred in his position with CWI and pursue his political ambitions simultaneously. (Partial Source: CWI)
Article provided by I.B.A. ALLEN
DR. SHALLOW RETURNED AS CWI PRESIDENT
CRICKET WEST INDIES(CWI) has confirmed that Vincentian cricket administrator- Dr. Kishore Shallow has been nominated unopposed as President of CWI, to serve a second consecutive term. Vice President Azim Bassarath of Trinidad and Tobago has also been nominated unopposed.
The confirmations were announced on February 27, 2025, at the close of the nomination period.
AI REAL ESTATE
Dr. Kishore Shallow and Mr. Azim Bassarath were returned unopposed as President and Vice President respectively of Cricket West Indies Inc.
The term for both offices will officially commence on March 29, 2025, at CWI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Antigua, where the organization is headquartered.
The CWI Special Meeting held on Feb. 6, 2025, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Shallow, considered governance reforms that were eventually approved on Feb. 27.
TROUBLE AT THE PORT
byDAYLE DA SILVA
CONTRACTORShave proposed what is known in the field as an “industry standard engineering solution”, to remedy the loss of reclamation material which occurred at the Kingstown Port Modernisation Project.
According to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, the loss of reclaimed material/land, resulted because of dredging which was done to achieve the design depth in front of the quay wall, i.e. the solid structure where ships can be moored to access port facilities.
He explained that the dredging was being undertaken in front of the quay wall to remove excess reclamation material to attain the required design depth.
Gonsalves further stated on radio on March 5 that the issue had been identified by the contractor and the
project oversight unit.
“And it has been under the continuous investigation and communication among all the relevant parties,” Gonsalves said.
Work done so far according to the Prime Minister include a survey done to the quay wall to determine the extent of the damage and a review of the stability of the existing quay wall.
“And a remedial solution was developed and reviewed to address the issue,” Dr. Gonsalves said.
The contractor has since proposed an industry standard engineering solution which according to Gonsalves was widely accepted for large scale engineering projects.
“And the solution will be implemented as part of the contractor’s contractual obligations,” the Prime Minister said.
The timeline for the implementation of the solution was still under assessment as it requires
Dr. Shallow and Bassarath will become the first president and vice president of CWI to serve threeyear terms, following on historic governance reforms spearheaded by Shallow, and approved at a special meeting of CWI shareholders on Feb. 9.
This would mark the second successive election in which Dr. Shallow has been elected unopposed, and according to a release from CWI, this reflects “the confidence and support he continues to receive from the cricketing fraternity across the region.”
Dr. Shallow’s nomination was put forward by the Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) and the Leeward Islands Cricket Board (LICB). Vice President Bassarath’s nomination came from the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) and the Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB).
Continued on Page 31.
The Kingstown Port Modernisation Project, the second largest capital project in this country’s history, is scheduled for completion mid-year, 2025.
the mobilization of additional equipment and qualified personnel to the site, he added.
In the interim, Dr. Gonsalves said that certain measures have been taken which included the
establishment of exclusion zones around the defective areas to ensure safety.
“And all remedial work will be carried out with the highest priority given to health and safety protocols.”