THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 09-06-23

PARLIAMENT MOVES OUT

for this work, there is a clarion call that the building be preserved in its original style/architecture.

The records show that the building is well over 200 years old and while it would have been blessed with a few modern conveniences (e.g. air condition) through the decades, the building has remained, for all intents and purposes, untouched. It stands as one of the last historic buildings — standing in its original design — in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Continued on Page 3.

It will take some time, according to one citizen, for Vincentians to get accustomed to the fact that parliament will no longer be sitting in this building.

“IT IS GOING TO TAKE SOME TIME for us to get accustomed to not having the Parliament meet in Kingstown, but it is perhaps for the better that it is removed from Kingstown. It will get it business done with less interference.”

This is but one of the

responses that THE VINCENTIAN got to its question, albeit to a handful of readers, about how they felt about the Parliament being removed from Kingstown.

Members of Parliamentelected and nominated — on Thursday, 1st June, met for the final time in the building in Kingstown that housed both the Parliament and the main Courthouse.

Moving through history

It is no secret that the building has been in dire need of repairs for some time now. (Readers of THE VINCENTIAN will recall the late Justice Frederick BruceLyle having to go public with a request that the authorities attend to some repairs (leaks) in his chambers.) And while there is unequivocal support

Right: Parliamentarians will take their deliberations and their ‘piccong’ at a new but temporary million-dollar facility at Calliaqua.

CGS celebrates successful Literacy Week

THE CURTAINScame down on the week of activities to mark ‘Literacy week’ at the Canouan Government School. The activities ran from May 30th to June 2nd 2023, under the theme ‘Transforming the mind, one book at a time’.

The objectives of the week of activities were: to raise awareness about the value of reading and writing; to instill a love of reading in students towards having them make it a habit; to assist children in developing their reading abilities, critical thinking skills, and other skills such as writing, vocabulary, and spelling, by making reading engaging and enjoyable.

The activities commenced with a book character/career day, where students dressed up depicting their favourite book characters and added to the portrayal of their characters by reading part of their book to the class.

Also on that day, a number of pupils went out into the community to read to the elderly and later that evening there was a movie night for both parents and students.

Some other activities included a

reading relay, literacy classroom discussions, Spelling Bee competition, as well as a literacy fair and writing day.

The activities culminated with the most anticipated events which included ‘Anything but a book bag’ which involved students using their creativity to construct/design book bags using recycled materials from their environment.

Later that day, four studentsTione Small, Lorelei George, Jayden Davis and Meike Deroche - took part in a public speaking competition. They spoke on the topic: ‘Should parents be blamed for Juvenile Delinquency?’

Each student presented two speeches; a prepared speech (on the given topic) which did not exceed ten minutes, and an impromptu speech which allowed for one minute to consider the topic and no more than two minutes to make a presentation. Topics for the impromptu included Regatta, Peer pressure, Tik Tok and Facebook.

When it was all over, Jayden Davis, the lone male participant, was

adjudged winner of the prepared speech and Tione Small winner of the impromptu speech. Small spoke on the topic ‘Peer Pressure’. The overall winner, though, was Lorelei George.

Each participant received a certificate of participation and trophies were also awarded for the best prepared speech, best impromptu and the overall winner.

Judges for the Public Speaking Competition (from left): Hodge (HR person from Mandarin Oriental), Lauren Pierre (Staff Nurse) and Pmar Samuel (Air Traffic Controller, Canouan Airport).

The Literacy Week Committee (from left): Shanette Laidlow-Morgan (Co-ordinator), Jolette Scott-Laidlow, Jenique Forde, Fruteisha Edwards. Missing is Keon Rhynd.

Lorelei George (right) overall winner of the Public Speaking Competition.

Tione Small, winner of the impromptu speech.

Jayden Davis, winner of the prepared speech.

News 3

More people employed, says PM

PRIME MINISTER DR. RALPH

GONSALVESsaid that there are currently more people working in St. Vincent and the Grenadines than at any other time in the country’s history.

The Prime Minister delivered the statement during the “Issues at Hand” programme aired on WE FM last Sunday. He referred to data from the National Insurance Services (NIS) to support his claim.

He stated that when the Unity Labour Party government assumed office in 2001, there were approximately 30,000 active registrations at the NIS for employees and self-employed individuals. However, the current data indicates that there are now over 42,000 registered workers with the NIS, indicating an increase in the number of people engaged in the workforce.

According to Gonsalves, self-employed persons and employees amounted to just over 30,000 (under NDP). “By 2019, the year before Covid, was about 41,000. Now it’s about 42,000 plus. There is no carpenter, no mason, no electrician, no plumber, no tile man, no general construction worker who wants work in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

today, can’t get it. In fact, laborers are leaving the farms and going to work construction; making it difficult for farmers to get workers,” said Gonsalves as he highlighted the state of economic activity in the country.

He said that over 300 Vincentians are working at the construction site of the $550 million dollars Sandals Resort at Buccument, with hundreds more expected upon the completion of the resort.

The 2023 Estimates revealed that 115 new jobs were created by the government with the bulk of these posts being allocated to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF). The positions were spread across nine ministries and departments.

The announcement was

NTRC’s MyApp for Bequia and Kingstown

THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS REGULATORY COMMISSION (NTRC) will hosting its eighth annual summer coding and application development initiative known as the MyApp summer program in two locations.

The programme will run for three (3) weeks each during the summer vacation and are scheduled for the period July 17 — August 4, 2023, at the Bequia Community High School, and July 31 -August 18, 2023, at the St. Vincent Grammar School, from 9:00am to 3:00pm daily.

Participants, between the ages of 13-18 years, will be taught how to code using a pocket-sized computer known as the micro:bit. This will help participants gain insightful knowledge in coding as the demand for software developers increases.

Application forms are available at the office of the NTRC and via the website www.ntrc.vc. Deadline for applications is Friday June 30, 2023. A limited number of applications will be accepted and the registration cost for the programme is $50 per student. (Source: NTRC)

made by Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 as he presented the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the 2023 fiscal year.

The opposition NDP has chided the government in the past, for the lack of employment opportunities for Vincentians, particularly young people.

Parliament moves out

Interestingly, the building was constructed a stone’s throw away from what was known as the ‘Market Square’, originally an open area where citizens gathered daily to conduct trade as well as to share information on world events and their views on developments in the ‘colony’.

It was from that location on October 21, 1935 that the people moved into the precincts of the parliament building to make their feelings known on certain ‘bills’ (tax increases) that were down for debate in the Legislative Council (Parliament) on that day. That public expression of descent resulted in what became known as the 1935 Riots and placed the name George Augustus McIntosh indelibly in the pages of the history of this country.

Parliamentarians and the business of the highest lawmaking body in the land, will now transition to a temporary location in Calliaqua until such time as a new Parliament is constructed in Beachmont/Richmond Hill, just outside the main commercial area of capital Kingstown.

Special final sitting

A special June 1st 2023 sitting of Parliament gathered past and current elected and nominated members of Parliament, past and

present Speakers of the House and specially invited guests.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves addressed the Sitting and prefaced his expectations with a history of the building, referencing the 15th May 1798 resolution that made provision for the construction of a building to house the Courthouse on the ground floor and “the Legislative Council above”.

He shared, “…And I want to say, for members who are here on the opposite side, that at the end of the day, we are here as representatives of the people. And whatever we may say about each other that we give recognition that we see all of us in our own way to see how we can represent the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday said, inter alia, that the history of the building abounds with political parties and figures who rose, played their part and moved on.

“The humbling part of that is that for all of us, it comes to an end – whether it’s 22 years, five years or three years,” said Dr. Friday.

“I actually like this building. I like this occasion and Kingstown. I like it’s across the street, where people can come and protest and exercise their democratic rights. That it’s close to them,” he added.

In her address to the

gathering, current Speaker of the House Rochelle Forde said, as the Parliament transitions to its new location, “We will take with us some physical reminders from this chamber into the new temporary Parliament building, and in that small yet symbolic way, we will transplant historical significance of the old into the new.”

Other currents members of the Parliament also gave brief remarks.

Going forward

The next sitting of Parliament will take place at the new but temporary location in Calliaqua. That temporary facility was constructed at a cost exceeding EC$4 million.

On completion of the new Parliament building and Hall of Justice at Richmond/Beachmont, the temporary facility will be converted into a students’ hostel.

Construction of the new Parliament and Hall of Justice is expected to commence later this year. That project is estimated to cost some EC$50 million and Parliament has already authorized Government to borrow this money from the Republic of China on Taiwan.

According to the Prime Minister, the current development activity in SVG is such that there are openings for skilled persons in a variety of areas.

Continued from Frontpage.

The last cohort of elected and nominated parliamentarians, Speaker and Clerk of the House to have graced the facility in Kingstown. Missing from photo is Senator Keisal Peters.

Chopper man jailed for 13 years

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

MICHAEL THOMAS, a 45-year-old man of Rose Place, used a cutlass to viciously chop his common-law-wife Esther Crooke, and her close friend Jeremiah ‘Jerry’ Harry one year and six months ago.

At the High Court Criminal Assizes on Monday, Thomas, who also resides at Victoria Village/Stubbs, was sentenced to 13 years, one month, and four days in prison for wounding Harry with intent; and four years, one month, and four days for the lesser charge of unlawfully wounding Crooke.

The sentences, handed down by Justice Brian Cottle, will run concurrently.

Thomas, unrepresented, had pleaded guilty to both charges when he appeared before the High Court for arraignment on May 2, 2023 but sentencing was adjourned.

The facts showed that up to the time of the incident, Crooke, a resident of Rose Bank, North Leeward, and Thomas were in an intimate relationship for about nine months. They would spend time together at their respective homes.

However, there were regular instances of domestic conflicts and Thomas had

threatened to kill Crooke during prior altercations, but she never made a report to the police.

On December 3, 2021, there was a domestic dispute between Thomas and Crooke and deciding to end the relationship, she asked Thomas to leave her house. He refused, so she packed his belongings and placed them on the porch. Thomas never left the premises; he slept in the porch for two nights.

At about 12:30pm on December 5, 2021, as Crooke was about to close her door to leave home for a funeral, Thomas used his foot to prevent the door from closing, and he said to her, “You can’t pass, me haffa run yo blood today, and if you touch me you go make matters worst”.

Crooke retreated and exited through a back door. She asked her brother Fernando Crooke to lock the door for her.

On returning home around 7pm, she met Thomas on the porch. She went inside the house, changed her clothes, and went on the block to lime. Several persons were on the block, including Harry.

Thomas arrived on the block and began telling those present that Crooke had cut him on his finger. He also

accused Crooke of having an intimate relationship with Harry. Incensed, he tried to strike Crooke but bystanders intervened and prevented him from doing so. He then left, headed in the direction of Cooke’s house only to return with his bag on his back. He is said to have said that he was leaving for Troumaca.

During this time, Crooke asked Harry to take her bag to her home and to collect some food from her brother. She watched Harry enter her yard and waited for him to return. However, while Harry was at Crooke’s home, Thomas, wearing a mask, confronted him. Harry recognized him by his build, voice, and other physical features.

Thomas questioned Harry about his presence there and asked him whether he was the ‘sweet man’ who calls Crooke’s phone. Harry denied the assertion.

At this point, Thomas brandished a cutlass and used it to chop Harry on both hands. Harry ran out of the yard, but Thomas chased after him, caught up with him and chopped him twice on his back and shoulder. Harry ran towards his aunt’s residence.

Thomas then approached Crooke whose back was turned to him and chopped her twice

in her back. She ran into the crowd for assistance and a police officer who was present spoke to Crooke and called the police. The matter was reported, and Thomas was subsequently arrested.

Michael Thomas had a history of wounding with the use of a cutlass and this time around, he met with the full extent of the sentencing in accordance with the sentencing guidelines.

that it was an unprovoked attack and that Harry was running away while Thomas inflicted some of these chops.

In an electronic interview, Thomas admitted to chopping Harry but said he did it after he was attacked. He also said that Crooke threw a stone at him. A medical report revealed that Thomas sustained a 1 cm. laceration to his finger. No other wounds were recorded in relation to him.

Crooke sustained multiple large lacerations while Harry sustained multiple lacerations to both sides of his wrists.

The sentence

Justice Cottle pointed out that wounding with intent carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, which is equated to 30 years. He placed the offence at Category 2, and Level A and started at 18 years which is 60 percent of the maximum penalty, within a range of 45 to 75 percent.

Attorneys testify at murder retrial

ATTORNEYSRonald Marks and Jomo Thomas were among four persons who testified for the defense in the double murder retrial involving the May 4, 2017 shooting death of Police Constable Danroy Cozier, 25, and his brother Nicholas Cozier, 19.

Schemel ‘Jacket’ Dunbar and Kendine ‘Hoody’ Douglas, both of Rillan Hill, are jointly charged with the brothers’ murder.

Both Dunbar and Douglas opted not to give evidence from the dock after the Crown closed its case on Monday.

Attorney Carl Williams who is representing Dunbar indicated his intention to call an alibi witness, but that did not materialize and on Tuesday, attorney Grant Connell, who represented Douglas, called Thomas and Marks to testify.

Thomas was the lawyer initially contacted to represent Douglas and sat in the first electronic interview the police conducted with Douglas six years ago after which Thomas discontinued his representation.

Marks had represented Richard Francis, a former police officer attached to the local coast guard, who had been jointly charged with Dunbar and Douglas for the brothers’ murder.

Francis pleaded guilty during the first trial, resulting in Justice Brian Cottle discharging the Jury and ordering that Dunbar and Douglas be tried before a fresh Jury. Francis will be sentenced at a date to be fixed.

The other witnesses Connell called on Tuesday were Douglas’ mother Jennifer Douglas, and Dr. Nadja Peters. He had also asked the Court to summon Dr. Alitha Hull but she was out of state. Peters and Hull are both employees at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and Connell was seeking to obtain certain information regarding Douglas, who had to be taken to the hospital while in police custody in connection with this matter.

After the defense closed its case on Wednesday, the Court heard closing arguments from attorney for the Crown, Richie Maitland, and Dunbar’s lawyer, Carl Williams.

Connell started his closing arguments on Wednesday and was expected to continue yesterday (Thursday) at 1 p.m. This is expected to be followed by Justice Brian Cottle’s summation, then the Jury’s deliberation.

The Crown called some 45 witnesses, including several police officers, an anonymous witness

who testified via video link from an undisclosed location, and the lead investigator, Inspector Atland Browne.

DNA evidence was also taken from two overseas-based experts.

The case for the Crown is led by Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall, assisted by Crown Counsels Renee Simmons and Rose Ann Richardson, and attorney Maitland.

The bodies of Danroy and Nicholas were discovered at Sion Hill Bay close to 1pm on May 4, 2017.

Autopsies showed they died from bullet wounds to the head.

The Judge added that the incident was motivated by reason of suspected infidelity. He found no mitigating factors for the offense or the offender.

In relation to the aggravating factors for the offender, Cottle noted that Thomas had several previous convictions for drugs and two for wounding with a cutlass.

He concluded that the aggravating factors outweighed the mitigating, and moved up by three years bringing the sentence to 21 years. Thomas, however, benefited from a one-third discount for his early guilty plea, in addition to having the ten months, and 26 days spent on remand deducted, resulting in the final sentence of 13 years, one month, and 4 days for wounding with intent.

He pointed out that Harry received multiple chops, some while running away. He no longer has the full use of his right hand, and the scars from the chops are still on his shoulders.

In outlining the aggravating factors, the Judge noted

In relation to the lesser charge of unlawful wounding which carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison, Cottle noted that the injuries inflicted were in the less serious category. He started at six years and four months, but after doing the necessary calculations, he arrived at the final sentence of four years, one month, and four days, to run concurrently with the other sentence.

Belmont man freed of shooting charges

JOMAL MCMASTER,a 31-year-old self-employed man of Belmont who was accused of shooting a Richland Park auto body workman in both legs early last year, walked free from the High Court on Monday.

McMaster was charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding the complainant, Clinton Matthews of Richland Park with intent, unlawfully discharging a firearm at Matthews, and having in his possession a firearm with intent to cause injury to Matthews.

Matthews was allegedly shot at Belmont on February 7, 2022.

However, when the matter was called at the Criminal Assizes on Monday, Matthews told the Court that he did not wish to proceed with the matter. As a result, the Crown, in accordance with the law, withdrew all three charges and asked the Court to discharge the accused.

Justice Brian Cottle then dismissed the matter and discharged McMaster.

Attorney Ronald Marks represented McMaster.

Attorneys Jomo Thomas and Ronald Marks were called to give evidence by Grant Connell, counsel for one of the defendants.

McIntosh to BMCC graduates: Continue dreaming big

you will be competing with Artificial Intelligence, which replaces intelligent humans with manmade artificially intelligent computers. You will be competing with machines and automated processes, which replace humans in the workplace.

“You will be competing with non-fungible tokens in the Metaverse,” he added. “It means that you will have to offer more than just your qualification in order to compete in today’s world.

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

Photo credit: Semone

McIntosh

ELABORATINGon the theme, “Igniting Dreams”, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General to the United States Rondy “Luta”

McIntosh has urged graduating students at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) to continue dreaming big.

“’Igniting Dreams’ is meant to inspire you as you enter into this competitive world, where great men achieve great things because of big dreams,” said McIntosh in delivering the Commencement Address at BMCC, in lower Manhattan, New York on May 26. “How big is your dream? If your dream doesn’t scare you, wake up, go back to sleep and dream again.

“The term survival of the fittest is not meant to scare you but to prepare you, to awaken your consciousness that you must apply yourself in order to succeed,” he added. “Some people dream of winning the Lottery. Some dream of landing a six-figure job. Some dream of inheriting wealth from a rich family member. Some dream of marrying a rich man or woman and getting a big

payout from a divorce. Some dream of using their intelligence and ingenuity to create something great. Some dream of living a simple life, with just enough to pay the bills and live a comfortable life.

“What is your dream and how is it aligned with reality?” the consul general asked the graduates. “I ask this not to scare you but to prepare you. Let me encourage you to start somewhere. It may not be the job you want, but it’s the opportunity at hand.

“Use it as a stepping stone, because, frankly, experience has taught me that, most times, we don’t truly know what we want,” he continued. “We go searching for what we think we want; and, when we finally get it and the novelty wears off, we no longer want it.”

McIntosh noted that many people are working and succeeding in areas that are not aligned with their field of study.

“Don’t be afraid to explore new horizons,” he urged, referring to the famous quote: “’Choose a job or a business you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’

“Gone are the days when our only competition were other humans,” he said. “Now

“Life will stress you out, but let your attitude determine your altitude,” McIntosh continued. “I encourage you to soar like an eagle. The higher the eagle flies, the harder it is for the crow to breathe; and then, due to a lack of oxygen, the crow falls away and the eagle is free.

“You will encounter many crows along your life’s journey, remember to rise about the negatives and soar like an eagle,” he urged, warning the graduates about “the entitlement attitude.”

The consul general said many people believe that they are entitled to all the top positions and promotions, “simply because they possess a college degree.

“I ask that you let your hard or smart work, your good ethics, your dedication and achievement speak for you,” he said. “The world is eagerly awaiting

change agents. Let your generation be the change mankind is so desperately waiting on.

“In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” McIntosh added. “Be of service to your family, be of service to your community, be of service to your country and be of service to mankind.”

CG McIntosh delivers Commencement Speech.

CG McIntosh with R-L: Jeremiah Hyacinth- CG St. Lucia; Dr. Marva CraigBMCC VP Student Affairs; and Carlene Hunte-Nelson - BMCC President Student Government Association.

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards

Editor: Cyprian Neehall

Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129

Website: www.thevincentian.com

Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com

Address:

Editorial

The hurricane season is here Protecting Cultural Heritage

The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season officially began June 01. With that in mind, SVG like every other nation in this Region, should be alert and prepared for the worst that the season might throw at us.

Some weather experts tell us that there could be from 12 to 17 named tropical hurricanes this season in the Atlantic Ocean. The University of Arizona, well known for the accuracy of their forecasts, is expecting a busier season with 19 named storms, nine hurricanes and five major hurricanes.

The average Atlantic hurricane season has 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes, according to the records of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Florida.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Florida, fewer named storms are expected this year than in 2020 and 2021, active seasons that exhausted the names set aside for tropical systems.

A less active season, some experts say, is expected mainly because of a developing El Niño, ‘a periodic weather pattern that often reduces hurricane formation in the Atlantic by increasing wind shear, or changes in wind speed and direction from ocean or land surfaces into the atmosphere’.

All of this, no offence to the experts, must be taken with the proverbial pinch of salt. The last thing we want at this time is for complacency to set in for this is very dangerous, particularly now that climate change has increased the potential for torrential rainfall with accompanying strong winds that can inflict property damage and threaten lives and livelihoods.

How well we recall Tomas which continued to strengthen through October 3, 2010 as it moved generally west- to westnorthwestward? Around 20:00 UTC, the eye traversed the northern shores of mainland St. Vincent leaving untold havoc in its path and a debt toll of millions in damage to housing and infrastructure generally.

By now the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) should be fully mobilised for

whatever may come our way.

However, it would be remiss of this publication if we did not stress that the responsibility to be prepared also extends to every citizen, with greater awareness and preparation to be exercised by those citizens residing in vulnerable parts of the country.

That said, there is still a sense that the hurricane season does not generate the desired interest or concern. This might well be fueled by the notion in recent years that only a handful of storms have made landfall in the region and even less in SVG, mainly because, some experts say, SVG lies south of most of the historical hurricane tracks.

Perhaps the experiences of displacement and disruption occasioned by the volcanic eruptions of 2012 would awaken an increased ‘appreciation’ for what debilitating impact natural disaster can inflict on an unsuspecting nation.

The quicker we wake up to the fact that this country is not immune to natural disasters and even though it has been spared the wrought of a truly catastrophic hurricane, we are still vulnerable as any other island in the Caribbean archipelago.

We recall the active Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) in October 2018 that dumped double figures of inches of rain across the region, SVG not excluded, causing widespread severe flash flooding.

With Tomas and that disaster recalled there is cause for concern, notwithstanding the forecasts of the ‘hurricane experts’. There is cause for greater concern about the potential for disaster in the many flood and landslip-prone parts of the country.

But, the truth is that all communities face similar perils, underscoring the need for a higher level of vigilance and more focus on disaster mitigation measures in the weeks and months until the hurricane season ends on November 30.

This is not a matter that SVG should take lightly. And in case we need a reminder: It only takes one storm to level a community and one hurricane to devastate a country, especially an island nation.

A FEW MONTHS AGO,news broke that one of SVG’s most culturally sensitive sites, in my opinion, was up for sale, not for the first time. Yes, I am referring to the possible sale of Baliceaux. Like many other Vincentians, I thought, how is that possible? Then we were quickly reminded that the island is privately owned and, like any other private property, the owner’s right to sell is protected by law. Despite this, many elected officials began a call to stop the sale. I am not sure what’s happening with this proposed property sale, but I have a few ideas/suggestions to offer to those in authority.

Of course, the easy appearance option is to have the government island. We certainly heard that call to action from some members of the community. Too many people think that ownership by the government will appropriately protect this culturally sensitive heritage site from disrespectful development. We all see how that has worked for us when it comes to protecting our beaches over the years. Therefore, I do not share that view; we must do more, and the time to do this is before we are faced with an imminent sale and potential development.

It’s time for us to discuss protecting our cultural heritage sites. To do so, let me define what I think we should consider under the umbrella of cultural heritage. This is by no means comprehensive, just a framework for the discussion. Things for us to coincide as a part of our cultural heritage should include moveable or immovable objects, property, structures, or groups of structures having archaeological, historical, cultural, artistic, and religious value. Certain natural features like iconic rocks, caves, tunnels, and waterfalls should be included along with traditional lifestyle foods like “funge and ferrine, corned fish, and blackfish crisp.”

We should try and have some of our sites listed by UNESCO on the World Heritage list. Did you know that Latin America and the Caribbean have over 140 locations on this register? Indeed, Baliceaux should be considered for this listing. A predetermined protocol must be followed when planning, executing, and operating development projects in culturally or historically sensitive areas.

It will be necessary to identify and protect cultural heritage by ensuring that internationally recognized practices for the protection, field-based study, and documentation of cultural heritage are

implemented.

Suppose the due diligence process determines that there are possible impacts on cultural heritage. In that case, competent professionals must be available to collaborate in their identification and propose management plans to protect said legacy.

Regarding using a cultural heritage site for commercial purposes, it becomes vital for a comprehensive business plan to be developed and presented to the indigenous people for review. The scope and nature of the proposed business and the possible consequences of such activities must be discussed and approved before approvals are given.

It is not unusual for the government to appoint a special committee to review and make recommendations to the Planning Department about the suitability of a development application. While this committee may not have final approval authority, its advice should be sought and considered.

A Cultural Heritage Committee should also be encouraged to make development stipulations in keeping with the national interest. To make this committee’s job transparent, the government and the Planning Department should publish a list of unacceptable commercial activities for any cultural heritage sites. For example, while a hotel may be an acceptable development project for Baliceaux, a casino at that hotel may be considered unacceptable. At this location, a Garifuna Cultural Center and a museum may be regarded as a potentially positive feature of government subsidy and assistance to encourage development. It is not inappropriate for the Cultural Heritage Committee and the Planning Department to demand such a centre be included in any development of Baliceaux. The government can incentivize such a center through special concessions and tax waivers, and it will not cost us any direct investment. The economic benefits could be significant.

Speaking of potential hotel development projects, it is time for the government to open the conversation about casinos and gaming. If we are serious about being a viable competitor in the long-term tourism industry, we must address this issue now. And by addressing it, I mean developing a national standard for their operations within our hotels. More on that later.

Horatio.

Mailing

The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd.,

P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

CXC must think before it acts

THERE ARE SOMEwho will say that it’s water under the bridge, but I am of the opinion that the Caribbean Examinations Council’s (CXC) decision to throw out the Math Paper II exam is still relevant, especially to the thousands of students/young people who were directly affected by this decision.

I have been out of the system for some time now but I recall vividly the extra effort that our students put in just to pass Mathematics. With Mathematics now being

compulsory, I can only imagine how this effort has multiplied and how much more stress we put our students under.

Now, we have a situation where our students will ask: Was it worth all this stress? Was it worth it staying awake all night working over the Paper II? Was it worth all the money spent on extra lessons just so that I could keep up?

All of that and now the paper is worthless. There has got to be something wrong when

What we do today…..

HAS ANYBODYelse noticed that while we have broadened our diplomatic relations with nations of all political systems and religions, that we have also increased our indebtedness?

It seems every time we establish new diplomatic relations with a country better off than ourselves, we are quick to enter into some loan agreement with them, e.g., the Arab countries. Just recently we signed a new agreement with the Saudis and for ‘developments’ that will not contribute directly to economic growth or development.

Now, I have nothing against that per se, since we have to attend to our holistic development — development of our infrastructure, our people and our economic sector. What I have a problem with is that even though those loans might be soft loans with low interest rates and they will not mature for some time to come, we will still have to repay them and with the interest. And we must remember that a number of ‘big’ loans with multilateral lending agencies will become due down the line.

Now there are those who will say that since we don’t have the capacity to fund all of our needs that we need to look for grant and loan assistance. Can’t quarrel with that.

However, my concern, and I hope it would be the concern of others, is that we have to be careful that in order to take care of the present, that we don’t burden future generations with having to repay many large loans that the economy into the future might not be able to afford. I hope this gloomy forecast does not come to past but whatever the case, we have to be careful about what we do today and how it is going to affect the future generations of Vincentians who remain to build and sustain their homeland.

Thomas

ÂWe Livin in jailÊ

Last week’s editorial immediately led me to remembering a calypso by Trinidadian calypsonian Sedley “Mighty Penguin” Joseph, now deceased, who won the Calypso Monarch title in his country in 1984.

The name of the calypso is ‘We Livin in Jail’ in which he captured the prevailing crime situation at the time in his country, and clearly pointed out that it was the poor who were suffering in the long run.

Here is a little of what ‘Penguin’ had to say:

“Everywhere I look

Criminals and crook

Terrorise as they run amok

While poor you and me

Behind lock and key ... “

Nuff said.

students have to depend on a 60-mark, multiplechoice exam, to determine their entire Math grade.

This excludes the SBA mark for which some students ride on the backs of others, and get an overall high mark that was not of their own making. And teachers are aware of this practice.

It is not the first time a CXC exam paper has been leaked and I am certain it won’t be the last.

I recall that in 2008 when the Physics paper

was leaked in Trinidad, CXC made Trinidad do over that exam with a different paper. This was not to disadvantage the thousands of students who also sat that test in the rest of the region.

Why couldn’t this have applied this year, after the Math Paper II was leaked in Jamaica?

Precedent had been set: If it was an option for Trinidad back in 2008, then it should have been an option for Jamaica in 2023.

The Caribbean Examination Council

(CXC) is the only examining council for the entire Caribbean, up to the secondary school level (including what we used to call the Advanced Level which is now CAPE).

In the circumstances under review, this is more than enough reason for CXC to have given more reasoned consideration before they acted, so as not to cause undue emotional and mental fallout on our students.

CXC must avoid taking on-the-spot decisions which are in

essence, detrimental to students across the region.

Retiree

Your solution at hand

WE FACE MANY challenges and often look to other people for solutions. Some of these people may not be a part of the solution but instead are part of the problem. Even though they are paid workers, they have no interest in finding a timely solution. Many years ago, there was a leak in the roof of the science lab where upwards of 42 students conducted their experiments. The solution was to place a small piece of $1 flash band to cover the leak. This, I should have done myself since the roof was low and the bureaucracy caused such inconvenience to our students for such a long time.

On another occasion, the flex cord in a toilet leaked and needed replacement. The official plumber was called. He identified the problem and said that a new flex cord was needed. We told

him that we would purchase it. He told us to wait because he had to consult with his boss whereupon he informed us that he cannot do the repairs because he has to wait on instructions. Replacing a flex cord is something that I should have been able to do myself.

One year I informed the administration that certain chemicals were urgently needed for the CSEC chemistry SBAs. I was informed the relevant authority was contacted to requisition the essential chemicals. Periodic checks were made to no avail. By the time I got Seventh Day Adventist Community Services to donate the chemicals, it was too late for that batch of graduating students so they got no results in Chemistry. I should have challenged those grades because we did all we could with the resources we had and students

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* If Zion I’s ‘Mash Up De Country’ is libelous then why is Magikal’s ‘No Order’ not seditious?

* Why does it feel like carnival is now all about street jams? Is this the only activity that rural carnivals now have?

* Has anybody taken note of how high the Fuel Surcharge is on the recent Electricity bills? What ever happen to that promise about cheaper electricity with the oil from Venezuela/Petrocaribe?

* Is the Road Rehabilitation Programme finished? Are certain roads in certain constituencies still not repaired having been in disrepair for at least two elections now?

* Why are school children saying that the NDP will make at least one candidate change for the next election? Is that candidate ‘Patel’ Matthews?

* And will we see the ULP making a change in the East St. George constituency?

should not suffer because of adult negligence. I should have used my own resources to procure the needed chemicals.

The biggest economic and cultural activity on the island was being cancelled because the playing field was not cut. One secondary, two primary and sometimes the preschools would hold their sporting events on the field. Apparently, the officials responsible did not cut the field. My view was that if the field needed to be cut, we should cut it. So, I arranged for Lenny Mills to cut the field at a cost of $500 with a promise to pay later. Sometime after, an official accosted me accusing me of selling on the compound. I responded with the question: “Do you know how we were able to conduct sports that year and how the cutting of the field was paid for?”

Schools need permanent maintenance workers and we were fortunate to have a retired master maintenance man, Mr. Simeon Stewart, living

across the street from the school, who made himself available to help us in any way he could. Nevertheless, many spurned his assistance resorting to complaints to the authority. On one conversation, I asked them why they were allowing the school to “rusn down” under their watch. On a visit by one of the highest official, we agreed on a protocol for volunteer repair help. He has not been heard from since.

The job description of school administrators clearly states that they are responsible to keep their school and its premises in good repair. They should not allow anyone else to subject them to function under dilapidated conditions. Schools, staff, administration, students, and community volunteers must join together to make their institution look good. That solution is in our hands. Let those who perpetuate the theory of learned helplessness seek counselling.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD

No “For Sale” sign at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Introduction

SINCEthis ULP administration came to office in March of 2001, our government has crafted a domestic policy and a complimentary foreign policy that has put SVG on a development trajectory and improved our reputation globally.

We say complimentary, because a casual observation will reveal that our development agenda has the support of many of our diplomatic allies and this allows for the implementation of a number of very important projects for this country. As a developing country with limited resources, facing many challenges, many of which are outside of our control, it is important to craft a foreign policy that supports our domestic development agenda. Challenges notwithstanding, our government is very mindful that our foreign policy with its importance to our development, must be grounded in principles that guide international relations. The principles as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, guide our decisions so that even when ideological and other differences exist, SVG can still engage other nations on issues of mutual interests in the quest to achieve both national and global objectives.

Over the past 22 years, many instances exist of the working of our foreign policy to achieve our domestic goals where our diplomatic allies worked with us on very important projects. Some examples of this include Taiwan’s support for the education revolution through scholarships and bursaries, Cuba’s support for our healthcare system through the Vision Now program, and assistance with the Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre in Georgetown, among other, and Venezuela with subsidized fuel and millions of dollars of debt forgiveness. Those examples listed are just a few of the many available as throughout this country, projects from the transformational Argyle International Airport, the Rabacca Bridge, Learning Resource Centres, smart hospitals and clinics, assistance with coastguard vessels, road repair and our modern port under construction have received assistance from other countries including the USA, the UK, and Kuwait to name a few. There is no doubt that our foreign policy is working and is producing many benefits to our country.

Our Foreign Policy not transactional

With SVG realizing so many benefits as a result of our foreign policy, many often ask, what do those countries get from SVG in return, and this is a fair question. For example, our most recent major international accomplishment of securing the support of the United Nations General Assembly by a vote of 185-6 to serve for 2 years as a nonpermanent member of the United Nations Security Council is remarkable in every respect. It is well-known that such campaigns can be very costly because of the extensive lobbying that aspiring countries undertake meeting representatives from various countries to seek their support. How then could a small country like SVG, without the kind of funding required to undertake such extensive lobbying defeat El Salvador to become the smallest country ever to sit on the UNSC? It’s because of our international reputation that has been significantly improved since the ULP came into office. Regardless to the forum, be it the United Nations, the Organization of American States, The

Commonwealth, or in regional organisations, SVG has become known for its principled position on matters of international law, and countries have grown to respect us for this.

Our country’s UNSC campaign used the theme “friends of all, we strive for a better world” and this guides of engagements with countries of various or opposing ideologies allowing us to work together. The construction of the AIA is a prime example, as SVG was able to secure contributions from Canada, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, Georgia, all democratic countries, as well as Cuba, Venezuela that are socialist and Iran that is an Islamic Republic. We can speak on behalf of Taiwan, Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, countries that assist us financially or with technical assistance (or both) while at the same time we defend the right to self-determination of the State of Palestine and the people of West Papua or Bonaire, who are unable to offer us any tangible benefits. This speaks to the foundational principles of our foreign policy, the respect for sovereignty and independence, and the right to selfdetermination, and the respect for the principles of the Charter of the UN.

Never will our ULP government put a “for sale” sign in the metaphoric window at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to sell our dignity and patrimony to the highest bidder. The parliamentary opposition NDP offers a pipe dream or streets made of gold to Vincentians, to be financed by the selling of Vincentian passports and citizenship for foreigners, many of whom are of questionable repute. Their transactional understanding of foreign policy leads them down a path where they would break ties with our longstanding friend Taiwan, and establish relations with the Republic of China, to satisfy their financiers who would be asking for their pound of flesh. The blatant hypocrisy of their position is exposed when one considers their constant criticism of SVG relationship with socialist countries such as Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, with their plan to establish diplomatic relations with a communist country at the expense of Taiwan, a beacon of democracy in Asia. If that position confuses you the reader, you aren’t alone, it’s a most confusing, hypocritical, and backward position, based solely on the hope of transactions that include the selling of our passports. We are more principled than that; we are better than that.

Conclusion

After many years of witnessing a progressive foreign policy at work that has both improved our country’s global reputation as a principled practitioner of international law, and brought this country many developmental benefits, we cannot allow a visionless NDP to threaten those gains. Our government continues to act in the best interest of our country and its citizens through our foreign policy promoting the principles of international law, which we as a small state depend on as we seek to guide and protect our existence in a world dealing with constant challenges. You can be sure that the next elections will be a referendum on where this country goes regarding its foreign policy, do we remain principled with the ULP, or become transactional with the NDP, putting up a “for sale sign”? The choice is ours, and we must choose to keep on the principled path with the ULP.

AT THE RECENTLYheld Hope Rally in Georgetown by the New Democratic Party (NDP), President of the NDP, Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, unveiled four (4) pillars of economic development that his party will implement to revive the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They are agriculture, the blue economy, tourism and the new economy.

Since the rally, Dr. Friday and his team visited stakeholders in the agriculture industry and held discussions with them. From discussions and observations, it is obvious that the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government is only paying lip service to the agricultural sector. Moreover, the ill-advised policies of the government have forced many established farmers out of agriculture, and vast areas of formerly highly productive land are now abandoned. The decline in agriculture has created severe hardship for thousands of Vincentians.

There is also a significant decrease to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from agriculture. It would appear that the government does not have a strategic plan to develop this vital industry. For instance, the government has failed to effectively implement the Banana Accompanying Measures (BAM) program. The European Union donated $37 million to assist in the diversification of agriculture. What does the country have to show from that program? Where is the abattoir? Where are the green houses? Part of the BAM funding was to install green houses to increase production. Surprisingly in a recent online publication, the Minister of Agriculture stated that the government would receive funding from the World Bank to establish green houses. But, there should have been functioning green houses in the country.

As agricultural production declined, our food imports have skyrocketed, worsening our balance of trade position. After twenty-two (22) years in power, the ULP government is now thinking about a strategy to reduce our food import bill. The Minister of Agriculture is quoted in an online source that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has pledged to decrease its food import bill by 25% by 2025. Is there any evidence in the programs and policies of the government in that direction?

The NDP has an exciting and impressive plan for the development of agriculture as an important pillar of economic development. The NDP will reverse the deteriorating situation in agriculture by revitalizing the sector, making it efficient, technologically prepared and internationally competitive. This will guarantee the food and nutrition security of our people and at the same time provide employment, income and sustainable livelihoods, while preserving the environment for present and future generations.

The overall goal of the NDP’s National Agricultural Policy will be to optimize and maximize our capacity to provide for our food needs. This will be done through increasing production of a range of crops and livestock species. This will ensure a sustainable and efficient food security system that is technologically driven.

Livestock is a key part of farming in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A substantive amount of root crop,

vegetable and tree crop farmers own livestock. The NDP will support efforts to improve the health and productivity of livestock, particularly chickens, goats, sheep, pigs and cattle by improving animal genetics and veterinary care.

While it was commonplace to use chemicals indiscriminately for food production, it is now time for a new approach to farming with less chemical dependency. Sustainable organic farming will be considered. The NDP will encourage farmers to ensure that their methods of cultivation are not harmful to the environment. Also, research has shown that the premium price for processed organic products ranges from 22 percent to 54 percent higher than produce of traditional farming practices. We want to see our famers get the best possible prices, and this is just one way we plan to do so. Tax and Custom Duty concessions will be made available to organic farmers. We will also reintroduce the credit system, making it available to all stakeholders in the agro sector. Proper guidelines will be instituted to ensure the system is run effectively to the benefit of all stakeholders.

We all are cognizant of the importance of food security. We will concentrate on the following: focus on ecological conservation and the use of bio-diversity; increase production to satisfy domestic consumption; place emphasis on relevant infrastructure development; conduct appropriate research and development program; encourage household/kitchen gardening; provide subsidies for local agro-producers, processors and marketers; ensure effective land distribution and utilization which will reduce dependency on imports.

Feeder roads are essential to improve farmers’ productivity and to access markets. We will upgrade existing roads across our farming communities and build new feeder roads to access more lands. The multiplier effects of feeder roads can never be overstated as access to and from the farm is of paramount importance. We cannot support our farmers if we cannot reach them, or they cannot get their goods easily to market. And, establish a marketing agency to assist in the marketing of farm produce.

We will establish a state-operated agro lab that will encourage agro processing. The agro lab will also assist small business enterprises especially those cottage industries that produce such items as pepper sauce, jams and jellies etc. And, the construction a factory to utilize our fruits is critical to the development of the sector.

Our zero-tolerance approach to combat praedial larceny will include a system where special hearings will be held to deal swiftly with crimes of praedial larceny. We will also ensure that a system is in place to compensate farmers for their losses, within a reasonable time.

The NDP is committed to resuscitate the agricultural sector as an important pillar of economic development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Agriculture is a key pillar, which will build the economy and create more and better-paid jobs for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Agriculture – an important pillar of economic development

“Wisdom in Proverbs is not simply one who possesses a masterful mind. It’s also a matter of the heart; it’s a moral quality. Wise persons are those who fear the Lord and subsequently make choices that honor God, oneself, and others.” - Arthur Jackson, writer for Our Daily Bread Devotional.

THE SEARCH FOR WISDOMis often intensified during the years of adolescence and early adulthood. However, the quest is not confined to those critical years as individuals seek to understand and pursue their purpose and passion in life. Individuals in their postyouth can (and do) also discover an addiction for the pursuit of wisdom.

Wisdom is difficult to define. This is especially so because it encompasses so many aspects of good decision making. Philosophers and psychologists have attempted to explain it for a relatively long time. Many surmise that wisdom involves the integration of knowledge, experience, tolerance for the “mysteries” of life, and a quest to understand life’s varied intricacies.

It should be noted that knowledge is not synonymous with wisdom. While the two are linked, they are significantly different. MerriamWebster notes that, “Knowledge usually refers to information or awareness that someone has about a subject, whether from education or experience, as in, ‘she has a lot of firsthand knowledge about the video game industry as both a player and a designer.’ Wisdom refers instead to someone’s good sense, judgment, or insight (‘he demonstrated wisdom by not responding to the taunts of his political opponent’) –in other words, to their ability to process, apply, or otherwise act on knowledge.” Based on the forgoing, it is logical to conclude that it is possible to have a lot of knowledge but not necessarily possess much wisdom. Some may hasten to note that it is possible to be “an educated fool”. It is conceivable that an individual can accumulate a tremendous amount of education, power, wealth, and fame and still entertain thoughts that are considered foolish. Too many foibles are committed by individuals who should know better; people who succumbed to the temptations that took them along the “broad road to destruction”. Such decisions are unwise — foolish.

The ancient Greek philosophers Plato (died 347 BC) and Socrates (died 399 BC) sought to enlighten their followers in relation to the elusive descriptions and explanations for wisdom. Their discussions with other philosophers, politicians, poets, and craftsmen sought to unravel the mysteries surrounding this word. Both advanced humility theories of wisdom that provide us with some valuable character traits that are ascribed to wise people. They postulated that wise people possess epistemic selfconfidence but lack arrogance. Additionally, such individuals tend to be reflective, introspective, tolerant of uncertainty, and readily acknowledge their weaknesses and shortcomings. The Stanford Encyclopaedia of Philosophy reckons that while these traits are not in themselves definitive of wisdom, any acceptable theory of wisdom will ensure that such traits are enshrined in their considerations.

David Brooks, an opinion columnist for the New York Times, writing in a

column titled “Wisdom Isn’t What You Think It Is” on 15th April 2021, noted that “Wisdom has an embodied moral element; out of your own moments of suffering comes a compassionate regard for the frailty of others.” He notes that wisdom is more about listening than talking and a truly wise person will not tell people what to do. He proceeds to describe such an individual as using anecdotes, rationalizations and episodes to impart insights that help other to better analyse their situations and proactively seek to navigate life’s intricacies.

The educated, aged, powerful, rich, or famous do not have a monopoly on wisdom. It is not confined to any nationality or geographic space. True wisdom is available to citizens of all nations, ethnicities, and gender. Many of the passages in the Old Testament book of Proverbs point to the source of wisdom. King Solomon (931 BC), considered to be the wisest man who ever lived, noted that, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge”

(Proverbs 1:7) and “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”

(Proverbs 9:10). Having reverence and respect for our sovereign God is foundational to the acquisition and growth of wisdom. Solomon, the son and successor of King David, ruled Israel with tact and decorum. He was human just as we are. He disciplined himself to pursue peace and justice. Many marvelled at his discernment and fairness. We, too, can create and sustain a similar legacy as we focus our thoughts on doing and saying what is right — what is fair.

True wisdom beckons us to avoid the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These will continue to lure the weak and foolish. Many lives have been wrecked by situations that have enticed the unsuspecting to engage in activities that lulled them to compromise principles in pursuit of wealth, power, influence, position, and so on. Selfcontrol is a critical component in the lives of those who pursue valuable but elusive wisdom. Some may argue that this is foolishness. They may even seek to rationalise the pursuit of personal gain at all cost (including dishonest means) and conclude that there is “wisdom” in cheating the system to get ahead. However, we are reminded of the powerful words of the Apostle Paul in his first letter to the saints at Corinth when he reminded them that “the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.” We are beckoned to pursue true, pure, unadulterated wisdom … having reverence for a holy God and committed to the pursuit of a holy life. The path to true wisdom begins with the thoughts that we entertain; focused on living right with God and our fellow man. It does not require wealth or power. It does not involve an abundance of education or knowledge. These are fragile and transient. True wisdom is evident when, in true humility, individuals recognize their fallibility, their humanness, and commit to the pursuit of choices that honour God, oneself, and others.

Privy Council or the Caribbean Court of Justice

1. What is a final courtof appeal?

A final court of appeal is a court which hears appeals against the decisions of other courts, usually described as lower courts, and the decisions cannot be challenged in any other court.

2. How important is a final court of appeal?

A final court of appeal provides not only a final decision on the issues between the parties to the appeal, but it defines the legal principles which govern that case and all similar cases. Thereafter, all citizens and officials must conform with the law as defined by the final court, and other courts must apply the principles as laid down by the final court.

3. How did the Privy Council become our final court of appeal?

The Privy Council owes its origin to the imperial regime in which appeals to The Sovereign from the colonies were referred by him or her to a personal advisory Council then called the Council for Trade and Plantations. By an Act of the English Parliament in 1833, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council was established to deal with all appeals in legal matters which were submitted from the colonies to the Crown and was thereafter required to be composed of legally trained people authorised to deal with appeals from Commonwealth courts.

4. Why has the Privy Council continued as our final court of appeal?

In our transition from colonial status to Independence, our political leaders gave no consideration to the question of whether we should retain appeals to the Privy Council or not. Although all Caricom countries supported the establishment of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and have consented to the acceptance of its original jurisdiction, only Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Guyana and St Lucia have acceded to the CCJ’s appellate jurisdiction.

5. How was the CCJ established?

In 2001, the Caricom countries agreed to a plan for the establishment of a regional court with both original jurisdiction to adjudicate in Caricom treaty matters and appellate jurisdiction in appeals from the courts of all Caricom countries.

6. How are Privy Council judges appointed?

The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council comprises justices of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, judges of the Court of Appeal of England and Wales, the Inner House of the Court of Session, the Court of Sessions of Scotland or the Court of Appeal of Northern Ireland, and a small number of judges of superior courts of Commonwealth countries. Recently, the English selection process for judges has been substantially reformed and appointments are now made on the advice of a multi-dimensional commission.

7. How are the CCJ judges appointed? The president of the CCJ is appointed by a majority of the Caricom heads of State on the recommendation of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC). By virtue of a convention, no such appointment will be made contrary to the recommendation of the RJLSC. The other judges of the CCJ are appointed by the RJLSC. The established rules and practice require widespread advertisement for applicants, short-

listing and interviews, consultation with the practising Bar and a consensus in support of the selection among the members of the RJLSC.

8. How has the CCJ performed since its establishment?

The CCJ has established a commendable record of efficiency, expedition, and high quality of judgment. For its high standards it has received international acclaim.

9. Why should we adopt the CCJ as our final court of appeal?

All Caricom countries contributed to the trust fund, which provides for CCJ’s ongoing maintenance. Their citizens participate in the appointment of judges and serve on the Regional Commission, which appoints the judges and oversees the administration of the court. They are also eligible for appointment as judges of the court itself and have been appointed to the court and its staff.

10. What are the challenges and cost implications of leaving the Privy Council as our final appellate court?

The financing of the CCJ has already been provided (US$100 million). As parties to appeals, whether as a State or individual citizens or corporate bodies, there will be considerable savings in costs, as travel to London, England, for the appellants and their counsel, engagement of English legal agents to handle the filing of documents and other procedural matters, and the costs of hotel accommodation and transportation in London are quite high.

Parties to the appeals and their counsel from some countries have to obtain a visa in order to enter the United Kingdom to attend the hearings at the Privy Council. On the few occasions that the Privy Council travelled to the Caribbean, the costs had to be borne by the host country.

These costs have proven to be unbearable. While electronic hearings have been attempted, it is not only inappropriate in certain cases but is highly inconvenient in the case of the Privy Council because of the great differences in the time zones.

11. What are the challenges and cost implications of adopting the CCJ as our final appellate court?

When the CCJ travels to a participating country to hear appeals, the costs of travel and accommodation are not imposed on the country visited. The cost of travel for parties and other related costs for attendance at the CCJ are considerably lower and the CCJ can more readily hold its sittings in the relevant Caribbean country. For electronic hearings, there is also an absence of the time zone challenges which exist in the case of the Privy Council.

12. Should we have confidence in the Caribbean Court of Justice?

Based on its record, the legal arrangements for its establishment, and the independence of the court, which are internationally recognised as an outstanding model, as well as the quality of its judgments, there is abundant evidence on which we should have confidence in the CCJ.

This piece, with minor edits, was adopted from the Jamaica Observer.

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

SVG needs secure borders – too many guns!

SVG needs secure borders. There are too many guns and too much gun crime. When we say too many guns, we are referring to illegal guns. Why are all these guns being allowed into the country?

Our borders are not secure. The many illegal guns and ammunition that enter the country fuel a lot of the crime in SVG. Every week we hear about gun-related crime — murders, people in possession of illegal guns and ammunition, people injured by guns, robbery at gunpoint, etc. and the list goes on.

In THE VINCENTIAN newspaper just last week, there were reports of two more murders - people who were shot. Gun crime is out of control in SVG.

SVG needs a Minister of Security that is competent and has the ability to secure our borders and stop the illegal entry of guns into SVG. All our people are at risk of gun crime; it is not uncommon for people to be hit by stray bullets; bullets intended for other people.

Our ports are not secure and our shoreline is not secure. We need to stop illegal guns entering our country. All this murdering is a waste of life and very, very sad. These deaths are unnecessary. We need secure borders. Better surveillance and intelligence about our borders are needed. Blaming the USA is lazy thinking. Waiting for the USA to solve this problem will get us nowhere. People are being murdered with guns almost

every week in SVG. We need to secure our borders ourselves. Our communities are under threat, because of incompetent government. Our government needs to solve this, not wait for the USA.

Gun crime destroys communities. Government has failed to deal with the pervasive presence of illicit small arms and ammunition, and this is a daily threat to the health, safety, security and development of our people and businesses. Our people have dreams and aspirations to achieve many things in their life. Their dreams and aspirations require peace and security for them to be achieved.

There are many tools to fight the illegal gun trafficking into SVG, but the government seems not capable of dealing with this serious problem. We

should also end licensed firearms. Ordinary people do not need guns. Also, when these licensed guns get stolen, they end up in the hands of criminals.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, strongly believes we also need to deal with the reasons some people turn to crime and that is poverty, inequalities, injustice, climate change and unemployment, for example. The weak economy, poor education system, lack of jobs and high taxes are significant contributors to people turning to crime.

These issues could easily be corrected if we had a government competent in finance and economics. SVG needs a different government to reduce gun crime. We need a zerotolerance approach to firearms in our communities and competent control of our currently porous borders to enforce this. We need secure borders.

The right to an identity

A FRIEND drew my attention to an article today: an opinion piece/letter to the editor that appeared in each of SVG’s major print newspapers, under a couple different headlines. The crux of the article’s “argument” — which

cited as “evidence” a series of cherrypicked biblical references subjectively interpreted by the article’s writer as clear admonitions against homosexuality — was that God tells good Christians that homosexuality is

an abomination, and unnatural, therefore Vincentians, as Christian people, should reject homosexuality, thus rejecting homosexual people. The writer of the article would doubtlessly say that his argument is against the “lifestyle” rather than the person. This is both disingenuous and an example of inept semantic gymnastics.

After I read the article, my friend posed a question: “How would you counter this?” The plain fact is that I wouldn’t even try. There is no countering a fervent, fundamentalist religious argument, because that would imply that said fervent, fundamentalist argument is rational. Such arguments are never rational. The Bible, a text rife with contradictions, cobbled together by committee several times over the past 3000 years to reflect societies as old as anywhere from 1200 BCE to 1600 CE, specific to one religion (well… the Old Testament is present in two, but I digress), is not one of the pillars of a cogent argument.

Using the idea that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a Christian country as an argument against something with which you have some weirdly obsessive issue is similarly lacking in rationality, while also being bigoted, narrow, and exclusionary. Not every Vincentian is a Christian. In claiming that “oh, but the majority are”, you immediately relegate non-Christian Vincentians to a lower status than Christians. Is this what Christians believe: that those of us who don’t choose to be Christians are less worthy of human dignity and should be denied the rights enjoyed by others?

So no, I will not attempt to

counter the myriad biblical “arguments” set out in the article. As a queer Vincentian, existing in this space, I’ve had to counter such arguments too many times in my life, and I’m both tired of it and frustrated that people still weaponize religious text to justify their bigotry. Queer people, wherever we fall under the vast, inclusive umbrella of queerness, have always been and will always be part of society. For several reasons, we have often found ourselves in the unenviable position of having to proactively take our place as equal members of society, because it isn’t usually offered. I think it’s important that people understand that we are not trying to claim a space by pushing anyone else out; we are not attempting to supplant other social groups (some of which we belong to while also being queer — including religious groups). Also, there is no “recruitment”; that is a lie. There is no “agenda”; there is a need — basic to all human beings — to belong.

While I may not recognize the Bible as a legitimate source of evidence for argument or debate, I do understand that it is a source of guidance, solace, and often hope for many Christians. This article is not intended as an attack on Christians. Instead, I hope it serves as a reminder that other people have a right to their identity as well. Keep your Bible. Hold fast to your Christianity. Neither I nor any queer person that I know would ever deny you these things. But when you mobilize the Bible to prevent other people from living their life — which has NO bearing on your own life — then I think you’re the one with an agenda; you’re the one who’s causing others to feel outcast and judged.

Sincerely,

Joe

On Tour apologises

LEADER OF THE ON TOUR CALYPSO

TENT- Grantley ‘IPa’ Constance has penned a letter of apology to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, following the recent performance of a controversial song, entitled ‘Raper Man’, by Calypsonian, Alvin ‘Zion I’ Dennie. Furthermore that Calypsonian will no longer be allowed to perform the song as a member of the On Tour tent.

In the letter to Dr. Gonsalves, Constance said, “I am emailing you firstly as a comrade and long-lasting friend and leader of the On Tour Calypso Tent, offering to you my sincere apology for the rendition of ‘Zion I’s’ song at our show dated 1st June 2023, at the Russell auditorium”.

He said that after the On Tour executive had threatened to exclude him

On Tour honours trio

THREE STALWARTSof the On Tour Calypso Tent have been recognized for their dedication to the cultural body. They are Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance, Glenroy ‘Azara’ Charles, and Wendell ‘I’ Lewis. They received plaques last week Thursday, June 8, during one of the Tent’s presentation at the Russell’s auditorium.

President of Calypsonians’ Association Earl ‘Caba’ Bennett and businessman Stephen Joachim presided over the function.

The recipients formed part of a 17member cast which hit the same venue last night for their second appearance.

On Tour Calypso Tent face the judges June 15.

The line-up features: Elvis ‘Roots’ Gordon - ‘It’s a trap’, Sylvanus ‘Ras Simple’ Jacobs - ‘Our land’, William

‘Kojah’ Anthony - ‘Running over’, Earl ‘Exposer’ Isles - ‘Correct me if I’m wrong’, Junior Malcolm ‘Marshie’ Marshall — ‘Cost of living’, Winston ‘Tumpie’ Thomas — ‘Progress’, Marvo Morgan — ‘CDC’, Glenford ‘Azara’ Charles, ‘When will it end?’ and Wendell ‘I’ Lewis - ‘Corona say’, Bernard ‘Reality’ White - ‘I am Calypso’, Lance ‘Da Vincy’ Chapman‘Sting them Lance’, John ‘D Truth’

Dugan — ‘Go after the criminals’, Derek ‘Man Sick’ Alexander- ‘Nothing to show’, Kirk ‘Ninja’ Knights‘People power’, Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance — ‘Woman deserve better’, Elvis ‘Abijah’ Abbey — ‘St. Vincent is not a real place’

from the cast because of his libelous lyrics, that he pledged he would change the lines and sing alternative lyrics which he had practised. “He also told us that he was advised by his lawyer that what lyrics he had before was defamatory,” said Constance in his letter to Gonsalves.

Constance went on to say that on the night of the show, he was caught off guard by ‘Zion I’s’ deception, when he delivered the song in the manner that was not sanctioned by the tent.

“I will accept that we made several errors; because it took a long time convincing him to change his lyrics, we should have paid close attention when he was introduced to be at a strategic position for any unforeseen circumstances, and 2, we should of inform the musicians to stop the music if he is singing the wrong song.

“With these errors and a careful reflection on the night I am asking your forgiveness and by extension all of the other persons who ‘Zion I’ have negatively impacted,” the letter noted.

Constance further informed that “the tent have since made a decision to terminate ‘Zion I’ membership to avoid any other deception to put the

organization in disrepute’ and added, “I am asking humbled apologies and promises that such an error will not repeat itself under my leadership of the On Tour calypso tent.

“I hope our relationship will always be one of mutual respect. Love Comrade”, the letter concluded. (KH)

and Robert ‘Patches’ Knights - ‘Do the right thing’. Musical accompaniment was provided by the band Nex Level with brass. (WKA)

Alvin ‘Zion I’ Dennie has been stoic in what he sees as unearthing misdeeds in society.

The honorees and presenters (from left): Wendel ‘I’ Lewis, Stephen Joachim, Grantley ‘IPa’ Constance, Earl Bennett and Glenford ‘Azara’ Charles.

Grantley ‘IPa’ Constance, Leader of the On Tour Calypso Tent sought to protect his tent from any undue fallout from Zion I’s rendition of his song.

ÂFya EmpressÊ takes Calypso Queen title

LORNETTE ‘FYA EMPRESS’ NEDD is the 2023 Queen of Calypso in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

She earned the honour, in her debut entry in the competition, when she dethroned defending Queen- Shaunelle ‘Singing Shaunelle’ McKenzie, and defeated nine other contenders, on Saturday 3rd June, at the Russell’s Auditorium, Kingstown.

‘Singing Shaunelle’ slipped to third in the pecking order having been also outdone by ‘Nubian Empress’, whose second place was her most successful showing to date, albeit in a short

career. ‘Fya Empress’ rendered the song ‘Price of Neglect’ which focused on children’s issues, skillfully crafted around the basis of the African Proverb, ‘It takes a village to raise a child’.

She presented with a command that was unmatched on the evening. Her elocution, punctuated with appropriately placed emphasis, her sustained melodious and precise interpretations, her in-person delivery that exuded empathy made for an allround, near perfect presentation which

if equalled, and/or improved, will make her a strong contender should she be selected for the National Calypso Monarch competition, which from all indications so far is a given.

Her performance moved at least one patron to voice that she reminded him of the late, great Barbadian-Trinidadian calypsonianFrancine ‘Singing Francie’ Edwards. Quite a compliment.

Unlike in the past when there was speculation as to who might have written a song for whom, ‘Fya Empress’, in an interview with the API, made public her thanks to the song’s composer — Christopher Grant, a renowned Trinidad and Tobago attorney/calypso composer who has written for no less than five National Calypso Monarchs in that country. This was the first time, according to ‘Fya Empress’ that Grant had written for her.

With this victory, ‘Fya Empress’ has added to a suite of firsts she has already accumulated here.

She lists two National Calypso Monarch titles on her resume - 2012 and 2017; Ragga Soca and Road March titles in 2012; and a second place in the Soca Monarch competition — 2012.

She is one among a rarefied class of three females to have won the National Calypso Monarch title, the others being Monique ‘Princess Monique’ Hector in 2003, 2004, 2008 and Bridget ‘Joy_C’ Creese in 2009 and 2010.

And she has already made known her intention to add another National Calypso Monarch title to her accolades. Saying that while winning the Queen of Calypso Monarch is an accomplishment in itself, her ‘real game’ is the National Calypso Monarch where she will come toe to toe with the best male bards in the land.

Given her Queen of Calypso

The top three female bards: Queen ‘Fya Empress’ (seated), Ist Runner up ‘Nubian Empress (right) and ‘Singing Shaunelle’.

performance, she should not be taken lightly.

Lornette ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd well into delivering her winning number ‘Price of Neglect.’

Dr. Lennox Adams:

Inducted into another Hall of Fame

ATFHF, Ernest Miller, “... were extremely athletic in their competitive years” and who, “... held lots of records at the state, school and national level.”

A former student of the Ouachita Baptist University, Dr. Adams was a three-time all American and was the University’s Athlete of the Year in 1989.

Contributing at home

A former student of the St. Vincent Grammar School, Dr. Adams represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at various levels.

VINCENTIAN- DR. LENNOX ADAMS, one of seven inductees in the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame (ATFHF), has expressed his gratitude for the recognition, but more so for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Dr. Adams travelled to the USA to have the honour bestowed on him in person, last Friday, June 2 at the Silver City Ballroom of the Wyndham Riverfront Hotel in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Pleased with having

left his mark on the US Track and Field scene in the 1980s, Adams related: “I am grateful for the recognition given to me by the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame, but I am also very happy for the positive attention it brings to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Adams leaves his mark

Dr. Adams was among a group of seven inductees who, according to President of the

As a teacher at the Bishops College Kingstown between 1978 and 1986, i.e., before his overseas sojourn, he coached athletes entering for regional and international meets.

From 1981 to 1984 he served as president of the then St. Vincent and the Grenadines Amateur Athletics Association, now known as Team Athletics SVG.

Adams went on to play a significant role in the establishment of the National Olympic Committee, which has since been rechristened — the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC), and an even more pivotal role in charting the way forward for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Olympic Committee to become a member of the International Olympic Committee in 1987.

He was still an active athlete at this time and was a member of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines debut team to the 1998 Seoul Olympic Games in South Korea.

Even as Dr. Lennox sat in ceremony at the honour being bestowed on him at the banquet

held last Friday, it was this same dedicated athlete who, some thirteen years prior, for his pioneering works and his contributions to sports in general in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, became the

very first, and to date the only inductee into the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Olympic Committee Olympic Hall of Fame, on June 14, 2020.

Dr. Adams is a practising medical doctor

and arguably St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ top photo journalist.

THE VINCENTIAN extends heartfelt congratulations to this esteemed son of the soil. (Contributing Writer: Gloriah)

Dr. Lennox Adams at his induction into the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Olympic Committee Olympic (SVGNOC) Hall of Fame, on June 14, 2020, presided over by Trevor Bailey, then President of the SVGNOC.

Dr. Lennox Adams with plaque and medal symbolisinfg his induction into the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame. (Photo Credit: Michael McCarther)

USA Eye Care Mission visits SVG

A 29-MEMBER MISSION OF EYE SPECIALISTS from the USA and hosted by the Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG, converged on SVG from May 28 – June 2, 2023.

During that period the team, comprised of ophthalmologists, optometrists, surgery technicians, nurses and other professional related volunteers, performed eye clinics and surgeries.

The team successfully performed 73 cataractrelated procedures and 4 corneal transplants at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH), all at no costs to the patients.

Moreover, over 800 persons received free eye care screenings, as well as blood pressure and glucose monitoring, at clinics which were held at a designated medical facility at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Follow up visits were recommended where

necessary, and reading and distance eye glasses provided free of charge. An outreach programme was conducted at the St. Benedict’s Day Nursery and Children’s Home on Wednesday, May 31st for the benefit of the residents there.

This is the 44th year of the USA Mobile Medical Mission to St. Vincent, in partnership with the Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG and the Ministry of Health.

The annual collaboration has facilitated numerous ophthalmological interventions for patients over the years. Additionally, the medical teams have made several tangible donations including eye glasses to patients, machinery and medical supplies to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital over the years.

The friendly and approachable nature of the team did not go unnoticed by patients who were very satisfied with the service.

The members of the Lions Club of KingstownSVG extend thanks to the individuals and business entities who provided food,

water and soft drinks to the team during the period of their visit, or in any other way contributed to the success of this mission.

Members of the Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG were also very active during the 6-day clinic. Here, Lion Dr. Alson Jack helps a patient secure a pair of glasses based on the prescription provided during screening.

Optometrists at work during the final screening process at the clinic.

Enhancing the bathroom culture

collects her $1500.00 cheque from Curtis Bascombe. She was the first to win a monthly draw.

CURTIS BASCOMBEhas a heathy solution to normal activities. He has a business dubbed: My Smart Toilet Seat.

He presented the feature last Monday at the Bayside Plaza in capital city Kingstown.

“My Smart Toilet Seat aims to enhance the bathroom experience by changing the culture of the toilet usage,”

Sagicor launches ‘Helping Hands’ year two

given to the chosen charities and their projects. Nominations can also be submitted via the organisation’s social media channels where persons can view the nomination video, which features Sagicor team members from across the region.

In its inaugural year, 2022, the programme garnered over 250 nominations and highlighted the importance of inclusivity through a partnership with the Deaf Heart Project in Barbados, focused on noncommunicable disease

prevention with Lake Health and Wellbeing in St. Kitts and Nevis and brought focus to education with SERVOL Life Centres in Trinidad and Tobago. Each charity also received much needed equipment to further advance their causes.

Sagicor’s President and CEO, Robert Trestrail, said the team is eagerly looking forward to working with this year’s cohort of charities.

“Many of the Caribbean’s charitable organisations do so much that is worthy of our

support and commitment. Their commission is often a great undertaking, moved forward by brave individuals, who stand up and decide to take up the mantle of a cause or issue. We are humbled and honoured to be able to do our part and hope that our contribution helps further the important work they do.”

Helping Hands is part of Sagicor’s corporate social responsibility programme, Living our Vision Everyday (L.O.V.E.). Nominations close July 9th. (Source: Sagicor)

Bascombe pointed out.

He pinpointed in the smart toile a “separate water line to wash you,” and emphasized, “not from the toilet tank.”

He cited the adoption of the water cleansing method as solving problems of itching caused by inadequate wiping.

He notes that excessive wiping “can create blisters,” and sees the innovation as benefitting users.

Bascombe recommends the facility for females during their menstrual period.

Elderly citizens with full capacity can take care of themselves with the innovation.

Bascombe insists: “Just wash it.”

There are choices including non-electric and Electric Smart Toilet Seats.

Bascombe is not leaving it to imagination. He invites you to the location for a demonstration of the

operation.

And during this period of introduction, anyone visiting the location can fill out a form and become eligible for a monthly draw of $1500.

Shanika Dasent, a Belmont woman, can vouch for the Smart Toilet Seat. She had a first-hand experience and has become a convert. She was boosted by the monetary incentive which she collected last Monday.

And as part of its promotion My Smart Toilet Seat will sponsor a Table Tennis competition, June 19-24, to be coordinated by National Table Tennis coach Romano Spencer. Tennis players Mikael Hazelwood, Nigel Pierre and Leah Cumberbatch were on hand to lend support.

Bascombe looks at the involvement in sports as fulfilling a duty of “giving back to the community.” (WKA)

REGISTERED

community groups, charities, and other nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) will again be given the opportunity to work alongside regional financial services entity Sagicor as part of its corporate social responsibility programme, Helping Hands, now in its second year.

Nominations are invited for the programme via sagicor.com/helpinghand s under the pillars of education, health, community and youth development and sport with both tangible and intangible support to be

Shanika Dasent

Visitors to the My Toilet Seat display at the Bayside Plaza take an added interest in the innovations and improvements the system offers.

Robert Trestrail, President and CEO of Sagicor Life Inc.

Leacock gives warning

IN LEAVINGthe hallowed chambers of the building in Kingstown that housed this country’s parliament, the

transitioning members will take with them a vivid memory of a particular action in the house that created waves of concern here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and around the region.

That action was a decision in February 2018 by the Speaker of the House, Mr. Jomo Thomas, which allowed the government to turn a no confidence motion that the opposition had filed, into a motion of confidence. This motion was then debated, in the absence of the opposition members, by the government side and passed.

Not long after his decision, Thomas took to Facebook to say that he had erred… he should have allowed the no confidence motion to be debated.

This must have been at the forefront of the mind of Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) MP for Central Kingstown, St. Clair Leacock, who last week Thursday, in his parting remarks, i.e. from the Kingstown chamber, cautioned the Speaker of the House, Rochelle Forde, that his party could well file a motion of no confidence in the Dr. Ralph Gonsalves led government, once members were comfortable in the new, temporary accommodation.

MP Leacock was following on an early remark by Leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday who, in his parting remarks, referred to

Thomas’ action as a disgrace.

Leacock continued directing his remarks to Speaker and got more exact, warning her that she was going to be tested because, “we (NDP)

coming again … with another vote of no confidence,” and that he hoped the Speakers “would do the right thing” and not follow on the error of her predecessor Thomas.

Increased traffic for AIA

BRITISH AIRLINE, Virgin Atlantic, has announced that it is joining the Caribbean inter-island air bridge market with flights to Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines via Barbados.

The announcement was made as the company unveiled enhancements to its leisure programme.

From 14 June, travellers will be able to hop from Barbados to Grenada or St Vincent and the Grenadines to experience multi-island holidays.

Operating its flagship A330-300, Virgin Atlantic will fly between Barbados and St Vincent on Wednesdays and Sundays in the summer while in the winter season, flights increase to Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

The Barbados to Grenada route will operate on Tuesdays and Saturday in both summer and winter.

The inter-island service became available for booking as of May 27 with fares staring from $307 USD.

And according to a release from Virgin Air, the inter-island service

“will also be complemented by an increase in flights to St Vincent and the Grenadines, which will operate thrice weekly this winter, with seats to St Lucia increasing by 33 per cent since last year, reaffirming the postpandemic demand for premium, sunny getaways.”

In related news, Air Canada is expected to increase its flights into the Argyle International Airport when it resumes service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines on November 01, 2023.

This is according to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves who announced on May 26, that the airline will expand the frequency of flights to SVG from twice weekly to four times weekly.

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will service the Pearson International Airport-AIA route with economy class flights typically costing around CAD $544, and business class flights up to CAD $1,659.

Air Canada is expected to maintain this schedule for the winter season (from November to April-May).

St. Clair Leacock, NDP MP for central Kingstown, had a ‘early warning’ for the Speaker of the House.

Dear George, MY GIRLFRIENDwas fired from her job when her boss found out that she was HIV positive.  She got the result while at work, broke down in tears and revealed the truth to her boss when he inquired why she was crying. He immediately gave her a letter of dismissal citing her HIV status as the main reason for letting her go.

That aside, a few days ago I found out that she has been sleeping with her boss. He fired her as a way of getting back at her for possibly infecting him.

I really felt silly, sticking my neck out for her when she got fired and not knowing she was doing this to me. I am left feeling nothing but anger towards her.

At the end of the day her dismissal was not right and that needs to be looked into but not by me. She has to take that on.

Numb Feelings.

Dear Numb Feelings,

You are correct in saying that the reason for your girlfriend’s dismissal from her job was not good enough and she needs to take that up with her Union, if she has one, or with the Labour Department.

You would also need to get tested.

It is true that your girlfriend did you wrong but you should consider whether you have a moral obligation to be there for her in her hour of need.

She would need someone to talk to and should not be left alone to figure all of this out. You can encourage her to see a counsellor. You have to keep in mind that at the end of the day she is still a victim and would need help re-building self-confidence and selfesteem.

George.

She needs help Change your focus

Dear George,

I AM GIVINGa certain man in this country seven days after the publication of this letter, to apologize to me for interfering in my marriage and make a promise to leave my wife alone, or risk having me take the pictures I have in my possession to his wife. I will also make a public statement about his interference and release the pictures I have.

Please, Sir, leave my wife alone and focus on your own marriage. You already have your pot of gold, please leave me with my penny. Tired of it!

Boiling Hot

Dear Boiling Hot,

Rather than focusing on this individual whom you think is interfering in your marriage why not take this up with your wife?

If there is an intruder in your marriage then you need to speak with the person who is allowing the situation to exist. Do not depend on this man to straighten out the tangled wires in your marriage.

The time is now for you and your wife to have that all-important

conversation about the state and direction of the marriage. It is always good to have periodic counselling just to keep

the marriage machinery properly oiled. George.

Not my boys!!

Dear George,

WHAT ADVICEdo you have for a man who just found out that the two boy children he thought was his, belonged to his neighbour? How would you advice that man if he tells you that when his wife said she was working at the neighbour’s home to take care of a physically and mentally challenged child, she was instead using that as an excuse for sleeping him?

The boys are 6 and 8 years old and they are not my children. I have the medical information to prove this. It also explains why my wife has been refusing me sex all these years.

There is nothing she can say to me now, that would prevent me from sending her packing. I already told her she is lucky I am allowing her to keep her life. My whole marriage and relationship with this woman have been a total lie and I am past angry.

Splitting Headache

Dear Splitting headache,

Thank you for sharing. It is good that you have not resorted to physical violence and I encourage you to keep it that way.

Your wife’s actions clearly show that she has a vested interest elsewhere. You failed to pick up on the clues along the way. Yet, the question to answer is: Do you see your marriage as one that’s worth saving?

I understand your anger but nonetheless, I encourage you to think things through carefully before you make any rash moves, as there are children involved and other things to consider. George.

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

Make plans to do the things you enjoy. You will learn valuable skills if you sign up for seminars this week. You can help them with difficult projects. Financial affairs do not look too favorable this week.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Unexpected events may upset your routine. You can make financial gains if you are prepared to take a risk. Be discreet and don't reveal any personal information. Travel will be favorable. You can gain knowledge from dealing with foreigners.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

A residential move may be in order. Opportunities to meet new lovers will evolve through your interaction with groups or fundraising functions. Your personal secrets may be revealed if you let coworkers in on your family dilemmas.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Be prepared to have relatives or close friends introduce you to new and exciting individuals. You can get ahead if you are willing to take a partner. Your partner may not understand your mood swings but if you are willing to communicate, a lot of grief can be avoided.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Your partner's a little jumpy. Take time to listen to the problems of family members. You can anger others quickly this week. Avoid overspending on items for your home. You can accomplish a lot if you work out of your home this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Socializing will be more than just entertaining. Your sensitive nature will allow others to read you well. You can travel for business or pleasure. You may not have the same ideas when it comes to what you both enjoy.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

You are in a high energy, get it all done, mood and you'll have little patience with those who are slacking off. You will probably have to defend your mate. Property deals look good. Do not get involved with individuals who are already committed to others.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Don't expect new acquaintances to be completely honest about themselves. You may have problems with children. You're undergoing changes. Use your head and do things to your liking. You are best to do your research before taking on such a venture.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

Erratic behavior may confuse others, and mood swings may result in isolation. Reevaluate your situation. Your creative talent may well be recognized by others this week Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Visit friends you don't get to see that often. Opportunities for partnerships are present; but get every detail in writing. Put your emotional energy into passion not anxiety Emotional situations could bring out your stubborn nature.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

If you're already in a relationship, use this added energy passionately. Be discreet about your feelings, and hold back until you find out a little more about the person who's coming on to you. Your questions will help you ferret out secret information.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

You need to look into some private matters before you can proceed with your plans. Offer love and affection instead of conflict and rejection. Take time to look at any outdated papers or possible investments. You will be your usual charming self and the partners you attract may be the adventurous type.

1. Tart

ACROSS

5. One of the largest trees in the world

8. “That’s enough!”

12. It’s about a foot long

13. Vegetable

14. Legal prefix

15. Spill the beans

16. Blew up

18. Give back

20. Schusser’s destination

23. Swamp

27. Place for racecars

31. Just the facts

32. It makes waves

33. Shoe bottoms

35. Lion’s home 36. One by one 38. Toward the Pacific, from NYC

40. Trample

42. Makes

43. Dinosaur locales

47. Investment gems

50. Fedora, etc.

54. Israeli port city

55. Get better, as a Pinot

56. Cave noise

57. Does and bucks

1. Burro

2. Home for Bulls and bears, for shot

3. Particle with a charge

4. Extent

5. Subjects of Darwinian theory

6. Elated

THE 2023 BANK OF SVG/FLOW National Club

Tournament ended last Friday at the Kingstown Netball Centre.

National Properties

National Netball Tournament concludes

Netters beat Dutch Lady Clinchers 3833 to clinch the Division Two Knockout title and in the Vita Malt Male Division, Mitres Elite overcame Macca 5829 to complete the double.

In the prizegiving ceremony that followed, the top performers in the various categories were awarded.

Voted the Best Junior Defending Player was Zaundra Richards of Bagga United, with the Best Junior Attacking Player being Ketonna Campbell of SVG General Services Maple.

The Shooter with the Most Goals was Annicia Dallaway of Sion Hill

Sports Club 1. She registered 188 goals.

The Best Senior Defending Player was Kaywanna Charles of Interisland Trading/DHL Mitres. Zanique Vincent of National Properties Netters was adjudged the Best Senior Player.

The Shooter with Best Accuracy was On Trac XCeed’s Maryann Frederick.

Among the males, the Best Defending Player was Cadique Stephens of Mitres Elite, with Dorian Layne also of Mitres Elite winning the awards of Most Accurate Shooter and Best Attacking Player.

The Junior Player of the Tournament was Ketonna Campbell, Senior Player of the Tournament- Zanique Vincent and the Male

Player of the Tournament- Dorian Layne.

Division Four Blaze Strikers was adjudged the Most Improved Unit.

Sion Hill Sports Club

Two won the Division 4 league title, ahead of SVG General Maple and third place BSS Warriors.

Winning Division Three was Sion Hill Sports Club One, second was Maple 2 and third was FOGSCO Country Blazers.

The Division Two league champion was Dutch Lady Clinchers, with National Properties Netters second and Bagga United third.

On Trac X-Ceed topped Division One with Island Wide Shippers/DHL Mitres second.

National Netball teams announced

And in the Male Division, Mitres Elite champed the inaugural title. Macca Crushers finished second and third was X-Ceed Knights.

In the Knockout Competition, SVG General Services Maple won Division 4, Maple 2 took Division 3, National Properties Netters won

Division Two and Mitres Elite completed the double in the male division. Also rewarded were the Most Valuable Player of each of the competing teams. The 2023 edition marked the full return of the Tournament since 2019.

Netball president pleased

NATASHA BAPTISTEPresident of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNBA), is pleased with most aspects of the recently concluded National Tournament.

FOLLOWING LAST WEEKEND’S CONCLUSIONof the National Netball Tournament, senior and junior teams were announced by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNBA).

The senior team reads: Kimesha Antoine, Joseann Antoine, Kaywanna Charles, Kristiana Christopher, Shellisa Davis, Mary-Ann Frederick, Kyila Miller, Shania Pompey, Jo Maria Quashie, Zanique Vincent, Ruthann Williams, and Geziel Wilson. Reserves are Mia Durrant, Jeneise Lowe and Kay-Shorn Lowman.

The youth team includes: Kayla Miller, Deoncia Creese,

Skye Baptiste, Vatesha Pompy, Zaundra Richards, Jamarah Coombs, Jada Berkley, Giada Small, and Ketonia Campbell. Reserves are Juniqueka Quashie,

Juneica Quashie and Phiunzia Laborde. The Vincy Jewels Senior Team will participate in the Central American and Caribbean Games in El Salvador from July 1 — 8, 2023, while the Junior Team will participate in the first ever fast-five segment of the Commonwealth Youth Games in Trinidad and Tobago, August 4 — 8, 2023.

I.B.A. ALLEN

In her brief feedback since, Baptiste said, “Well, after the break from the National Tournament for a couple years, many of the teams came back, I would say a bit rusty. However, as the tournament progressed, we saw improvement. What was encouraging is the excitement of the young players, many who were competing for the first time and though they were defeated, they continually turned up for their matches with the same level of excitement.”

She admitted, though, “We will however need to revisit the deficiencies in the Division 1 and work with the affiliates to see how we can make the necessary adjustments towards improvement and further development.”

Additionally, while noting improvement, she identified the area of officiating as one that still requires some attention.

Player’s development has always been at the forefront of the national netball body, and Batiste shared that part of the national focus

will be on the grassroot programme and on scholarships.

“We will begin our grassroot programme soon and this will primarily be in the rural communities as we take the sport to these communities,” Baptiste assured.

As for scholarships, the president disclosed that her Executive is working towards affirming its relationship with London Pulse out of the UK. Notwithstanding that process, one student who graduates from Secondary School will receive a 2-year Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) scholarship to the SVG Community College.

“That is a start, as we work to marry academics with sports,” Baptiste posited.

Zanique Vincent –National Properties Netters - Best Senior Player.

Natasha Baptiste, President of the SVGNBA, is encouraged by the excitement of the young players.

National Youth Netball Team.

National Senior Netball Team.

SVGSF hosts Coaching Course

EIGHTEENcoaches - three each from St. Kitts and Nevis and Barbados, and six each from St. Lucia and host St. Vincent and the Grenadines, were part of a fiveday World Aquatics Level Two Coaching Course.

Staged from June 1 to 5, and hosted by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation, theoretical sessions were held at the Paradise Inn, Villa, with the practical sessions at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre at Ratho Mill.

Whilst the theoretical sessions formed the basis for the course, it was the practical sessions on which the participants were assessed.

The coaches were required to put

together practice sessions whereby they would assess some young local swimmers, and do the necessary correction, modification or consolidation in the swimmers’ techniques and skills.

Responsible for imparting the knowledge to the coaches was Barbadian — David Famer. According to Farmer, “They (coaches) would have learnt how to put together practices,

so that they flow well and that they are able to move the swimmer from one particular swim level to another skill level.”

As for specifics of the course, Farmer disclosed: “We looked at the stroke analysis, that was looking at strokes and analyzing... looking for errors, things that are done well; things that need correction and so on.”

Looking ahead, Farmer believes that the coaches, each with varied experiences in their respective

CWI/UWI course held in SVG

CRICKETWest Indies (CWI), in collaboration with the University of the West Indies (The UWI) and the St.

Association, held a CWI/The UWI Level 2 coaching course last weekend, at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex.

Ryerson Bhagoo one of the two UWI facilitators, the other being Keshava Tamphal, told the media he was happy they can make a positive difference to coaching education in the region.

Swim Coach gets certified

SWIM

COACH

Tamarah St.

Hilaire has successfully completed the National Coaching Certification of the Coaching Association of Canada.

In so doing, St. Hilaire, a coach with the Blue Marlins Swim Club of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has met the requirements of the International Support Programme to African and Caribbean Sport (PIAPAC). She was among participants from nine other Caribbean countries, in the certification course that started in 2022.

Funded by Olympic Solidarity, the programme comprising both theoretical and practical sessions and engaged the participants in the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD), Performance Planning, Physical Preparation, Mindfulness, Olympic Programme and Nutrition.

St. Hilaire journeyed to

Montreal, Canada, for face-to-face sessions from May 15 to June 1.

Commenting on the programme that began online, St. Hilaire said: “It was a programme that I thoroughly enjoyed… I would have learnt some new things and reinforced some stuff that I knew before.”

With the new knowledge gained, St. Hilaire plans to apply it to her immediate charges as well as others.

“Certainly, I am ready to try some of the new things to local swimmers and help build the sport here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” she indicated.

She thanked the Executive of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation for selecting her, as well as the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC) for facilitating her travel to Canada.

St. Hilaire has been a

countries, should be equipped to produce national swimmers.

“Having completed this, they are expected to operate at a national level and to be able to work with teams at a national level, because we are looking to develop swimmers at the national level that a national coach will need,” Farmer commented.

He advised that the coaches spend a few years mastering their Level Two coaching status, before going on to the next level of certification.

“It’s always a pleasure to partner with the cricket associations in the different territories to deliver these coaching programmes,” he said, “because we see this continuous learning process as only aiding the development of our players through the pathway with the view to represent the West Indies team.”

five years.

He assured that given the new technique, new ideology, new ways of doing things, it is incumbent that “we continue working on ways to improve the programme.”

Bhagoo urged the coaches to continue to coach instead of waiting on the certificate.

“Our main intention here is to see coaches going back, not so much getting the certificate, but go back to their environment, clubs, schools and help develop the players and the game.”

Before certification, participants, within the next three months, will have to submit a video of them coaching and accompanying documentation.

Among the 12 participants in the programme, was national player Stacy-Ann Adams.

She shared that she would now be able to challenge the players while allowing them to have a voice. “The biomechanics was one the terms that stood out for me and how the players implement it in their game,” Adams said.”

Afy Fletcher, Windward Islands captain and West Indies leg spinner, said. “It was very informative. As a player it will help me to better work and I now have a better idea of my approach to work with kids,’ Fletcher said.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket

practicing Swim Coach for the past

Coaches and swimmers at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre.

Facilitator – Dave Farmer, during one of his presentations at Paradise Inn Conference Room.

Participants in the CWI/UWI Level 2 coaching which was held here in SVG, with StacyAnn Adams (stooping at extreme left) and Afy Fletcher (2nd from right middle row).

Tamarah St. Hilaire, armed with new knowledge and skill, is ready to bring her expertise to bear on furthering the development of swimming in SVG.

UWI Course facilitators Keshava Ramphal (left) and Ryerson Bhagoo.

World Cup fable

IT MAY BEa storm in a tea cup, but an indication of a shift in the staging of the 2024 ICC T/20 competition is seeing some currents. One will have to await the official announcements.

The rivalry appears to be an English and American continuation. And the Caribbean is embroiled in the affair. USA is scheduled to host part of the 2024 event. Their Major League Cricket showpiece is set for July 13 to July 30. They have a programme which they hope will be a trial run for their leg of the event.

England’s Jason Roy, along with Australians Matthew Wade, Marcus Stoinis and Moses Henriques are enlisted with the MLC enterprise.

USA Cricket is banking on that tournament to convince the ICC of their ability to fulfil expectations.

Some interests are suggesting the shift including Scotland and Ireland, for the championship and repose the following tournament to the Caribbean and USA.

The English are projecting “lack of cricket structure,” raises questions about the fragility of sporting decisions. One knows that cricket is like life. Changes will come and there must be adjustments.

The manner in which it comes out that shifting a tournament can be contemplated without involvement of the hosts is a type of disregard. The West Indies Cricket Board have invited member territories to bid for hosting aspects of the tournament.

I want to be believe that many countries have stepped up their readiness in anticipation of a genuine response. The idea of targeting the USA as an excuse for shifting the tournament is a sign of deeper cricketing aspirations and intentions.

England has been established as the authors of the rules.

The Indian cricketers are slated for a stopover in USA on their way to the Caribbean in July.

The MLC has some Indian connections, like the trend that is creeping into the Caribbean Premier League, itself into preparation for its next display.

The USA Cricket authorities are confident that they can ward off any challenge to their hosting privileges. It will be interesting to see how the scenario unfolds.

Abrupt and far reaching upheavals are part of the norm. When they happen it’s the routine. That’s how the cycle condenses.

Whatever the circumstances, there will be something for everyone to use. Arnos Vale needed upgrading. With the array of activities possible with facilities in place, there is the natural blend of economic and health benefits.

There is nothing wrong with getting your house in order, with or without the likelihood of a visitor dropping by at any moment. We in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are noted for our hospitality. We haven’t lost in one bit.

With an expanding base of resources to accommodate people, SVG is an attraction for more reasons than one. We have the history of being the guardian of Caribbean culture. We have no plans of relinquishing that heritage.

Archery Assoc. holds first Ranking Tournament

THEARCHERY ASSOCIATONof St. Vincent and the Grenadines (AASVG) held its first National Ranking Tournament on May 27 and 28, 2023.

The event took place at the Dolphin Gymnastics Center at Arnos Vale.

Featuring 13 participants, Day One of the tournament saw all archers shooting a total of 72 arrows at a 30-metre distance.

The Double Elimination Match Play was held on the second day.

Jared Nichols emerged the winner of the Male category, ahead of Ian Gibson, with

Vanburn Harrythird.

Among the Females, Karen Palmer trumped over Marese Burgin and Richol Richards in that order.

Pleased with the turn-out, President of the AASVG Sanjay Jiandani was understandably elated that his Association was able to stage its first ranking Tournament and was pleased with the showing of the archers.

He was particularly thrilled, noting that that the event was given a mention in World Archery’s Monthly Newsletter.

Jiandani thanked all supporters, members and officials who made the event a success.

“We are also thankful that we have the use of the Dolphin

George Stephens takes cricket title

GEORGESTEPHENS SECONDARY

SCHOOL (GSSS) beat Central Leeward (Barrouallie) Secondary School (CLSS) by 6 wickets to secure the 2023 Champion’s title of the Inter Secondary School Under-19 Cricket.

The match was played at the Buccament Bay Playing Field last Friday, June 2.

In a match in which officials reduced the allotment of 50 overs to 40, given the late start caused by overnight and morning showers, CLSS won the toss and opted to bat.

They failed to establish any degree of authority over the GSSS bowlers and were reduced to 84 allout in 22 overs. Extras contributed a leading 23, followed by Lebran Douglas with 22. National U19 off-spinner and GSSS captain Joe Williams was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 4 for 34 from 8 overs.

GSSS made light work of their pursuit of victory doing just that in 12 overs, in which they lost 4 wickets for 89 runs, captain Williams leading the runs chase with a crafty 38. He was ably supported by Elron Glasgow with 21 not out. Leg-spinner Watson Seaton was CLSS best bowler with 2 for 34.

As for individual accolades, Joe Williams, captain of GSSS was the Player of the Tournament having amassed 215 hundreds and taken 15 wickets. He was also adjudged Player of the Finals for his 34 runs and 4 wickets.

Under-19 left arm spinner, Watson Seaton from the CLSS, was the tournament’s leading wickettaker. He snared 20 scalps.

And the schools’ cricket season will come to an end this Sunday, June 11, when the South Rivers Methodist School takes on the Park Hill Government School in the finals of the Inter-Primary Schools Cricket Tournament. The match will be played at the South Rivers Playing Field.

Gymnastics facility, but are hopeful that a permanent home for the sport can be found soon,” he added, before disclosing that the association will be sending a team to a regional tournament later this year.

The Archery Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadine was formally inaugurated on October, 2021.

Before that, it became a full member of World Archery on September 17 that year.

SVGCC Students Complete D Licence Course

TWENTY-TWOSTUDENTS pursuing Applied Associate Degrees in Sports Sciences at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College have completed a D Coaching Licence Football Course.

The course, requiring both theoretical and practical assessments, was organized and conducted by St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) which, in a statement, described the group as being comprised of “dedicated and passionate individuals,” who “demonstrated exceptional commitment and talent in football coaching, earning their well-deserved SVGFF D Coaching License Certificates.”

The course, said the SVGFF, provided the students with an additional comprehensive curriculum focused on coaching methodologies, player development, game analysis, and effective communication.

The successful students were: Andros Dennie, Alexus Hoyte, Clenetta Brudy, Darren Morgan—Jeffers, Derecia Michael, Eonjay Glasgow, Jahva Audain, Jamaar Cropper, Javel Dodds, Jayden DeSoua, Jlan McMaster, Josh Stowe, Joshua Bennet, Keianna Edwards, Kirtney Franklyn, Kyle Simmons, Marsha Marshall, Ossique Bellingy,

Sydroy Bentick, Zanelle James, Zanique Guy, and Javonnie Shallow.

Archers taking aim at the target.

George Stephens Secondary –champions of U19 Secondary Schools cricket.

Central Leeward (Barrouallie) Secondary School took second place to George Stephens.

Newly certified SVGCC D License coaches with SVGFF and SVGCC officials.

The ‘winners’ who emerged from the Double Elimination Match Play (from left): Marese Burgin, Ian Gibson, Jared Nichols, Karen Palmer, Vanburn Harry, Richol Richards.

The HAM 316 departed St. Vincent and the Grenadines after a dredging undertaking that was supposed to see some 1.17 cubic metres removed from the south east seabed of mainland St. Vincent.

Dredging complete

From Backpage. workshops and warehouses.

The Kingstown Port Modernisation Project is being funded by a US$110 million loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), a grant of about US$32 million from the CDB-administered United Kingdom Infrastructure Fund, and US$43 million contribution from the Government of SVG,

part of which has been sourced through a loan (ec$65m) from the Republic of China on

Taiwan.

The project is set to be complete by May 2025.

OLIVE JACK

Friday, 2nd June, 2023 Cathedral,

SELWYN ALUTHER BAILEY

Monday, 5th June, 2023 SDA Church,

PASTOR CHERYL-ANN ZERALDA DUBLIN

Sunday, 4th June, 2023 Shekinah

FRANKLYN CAULDRIC FOYE

Saturday, 3rd June, 2023 Evangelical Church Chauncey

TOSCA C. DELBRIDGE

Saturday, 3rd June, 2023 Cathedral oftery

WILKIE HANDEL FREDERICK a.k.a. Darda and Congo

Sunday, 4th June, 2023 Barrouallie Seventh Day Church

DREDGING COMPLETE

AFTER LITTLEover a month’s work, which started in late April, the dredger M.V. HAM 316 (of the internationally renowned Van Oord fleet) left the shores and sea limits of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

During the month or so of work, the dredger was expected to remove some 1.17 cubic meters of sand from an area on the south east coast of mainland St. Vincent, and dump it in Kingstown so as to reclaim up to 16.1 acres of seaward land, to accommodate the construction of a new container port, part of the overall Kingstown Port Modernisation Project.

How much sand was actually removed THE VINCENTIAN is yet to confirm, together with whether or not the promised sum of ec$20m was paid by the contractors, Aecon Group Inc., of Canada, to the government of St. Vincent., for the sand.

While here, the dredger made up to six trips daily from source to Kingstown, each trip bringing up to 6,000 cubic meters of sand,

depending on the weather and sea conditions.

With the designated area of seaward land reclaimed, the next step

will be vibro compaction which will stablise the loose sand and gravel. This is in preparation for the commencement of construction in earnest.

Construction work will include a terminal (to include a freight station), container storage yard, maintenance areas for

break-bulk vehicles, administration and customs building, Continued on Page 23.

TEACHER GOES TOO FAR

A REPORThas reached THE VINCENTIAN about a rather unbecoming comment made by a Primary School Teacher, to a Grade Six student under that teacher’s care.

The report is that having noticed that a male student might be thinking about climbing over a fence to retrieve a ball, the teacher, in a bellowing tone of voice, said to the student, “I wish you fall over, break yo’ neck and dead!!!”

The student, who is admittedly a feisty one, with a quick tongue, retorted, “The amount ah make-up yo have on yo face if ah was to blow it off and go mek cocoa for me tea.”

A report by the student to his mother led to the mother approaching the teacher on the matter, and while acknowledging that the student was

impolite in his response, she made it known in no uncertain terms that what was said to the student was causing undue emotional stress.

An attempt to have the headmistress broker some kind of resolution to what was now a standoff between the teacher on one side and the mother and her child on the other, made no headway in this regard.

The least the parent expected was that the headmistress would have asked, in the company of all concerned, that each party apologies to the other.

Instead, during the discourse, the teacher is said to have repeated, “Yes, ah wish he would afall over, break his neck and dead.”

As it stands, with the child awaiting the results of the CPEA, the

mother has decided to withdraw the child from school not wanting to risk any further “threat” on the child or any further outburst by him. And on request of the child, the mother has withdrawn her child from the graduation exercise for the Grade 6’s.

While we do not condone any insolence on the part of students, we at the same time would find it difficult not to admonish a teacher for exhibiting an indication that he/she has lost sight of the teacher’s responsibility to care for the child, both in terms of the child’s academic advancement and growth as a human being, free and brave enough to face the world.

Wishing such dread (to the extent of wishing death) upon a student,

should never cross the mind of a teacher far less to have a teacher verbalise it.

Children learn what they see, hear and from how they are treated. It is incumbent upon our teachers that they understand that children are impressionable and precious and that they should act accordingly when they (children) come under their care.

Our system must not become an assembly line for damaged goods. Teachers have a significant part in determining how positively impacting the system is on those it is designed to serve.

This teacher in question should have been cautioned in the least and the student reprimanded.

The seaward land area has been reclaimed opening the way for the next phase of construction. (Photo Credit:API SVG)