GOV’T WINS VACCINE MANDATE APPEAL
by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
PERSONS EMBROILED in the Covid vaccine matter have to wait some time for the fiasco to settle. It looks like the Privy Council will have the final say. That’s where, it appears, the matter involving the government of St. Vincent and the
Grenadines and a team of lawyers representing public servants is heading.
According to a release from Jomo Thomas, one of the lawyers representing the public servants in the matter. there are plans to “get a better appreciation of all the views expressed in the decision. Thereafter, we will discuss with our
clients all available options, including an appeal to the Privy Council.”
The development comes in the wake of a ruling handed down on Wednesday February 12 in Kingstown, by the Eastern Caribbean Appeal Court.
The Court, comprised of Justices Eddy Ventose, Paul Webster and
Gerhard Wallbark handed down a 2:1 ruling, in favour of the government, with Justice Wallbank being the dissenting vote.
The matter ruled upon was one dating back to 2021 in which public servants took the government to Court seeking redress for their dismissals and/or full reinstatement, for not having taken the Covid19 vaccine, that was legislated as a mandatory requirement for public servants.
The Public Service Union (PSU), the St Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers’ Union (SVGTU), and the Police Welfare Association (PWA) were sponsors of the lawsuit, which was filed in the names od dimissed [ublis secotr workers: Shanile Howe, Novita Robert, Cavet Thomas, Alfonzo Lyttle, Brenton Smith, Sylvorne Olliver, Shefflorn Ballantyne, Travis Cumberbatch, and Rohan Giles.
The appellants named in the matter were: the Minister of Health and
the Environment, the Public Service Commission, the Commissioner of Police, the Attorney General and the Police Service Commission.
March 13, 2023, Justice Esco Henry ruled that the decisions of the Public Service Commission, and the Commissioner of Police under the government’s Statutory Rules and Orders No 28 of 2021
Continued on Page 3.
APOLOGY
HAVING ACKNOWLEDGEDthat we erred with a particular reference in last’s week’s front page article headlined “Road Fatality #1: Wish comes True?”, we are moved to offer this apology to the mother, other relatives and close friends of Normanie Duncan, the focus of the article.
We acknowledge that our reference to a Facebook posting which read, “I want to get drunk, have an accident on my way home, and end up in a coma for 3 months. When I wake up, I won’t know anyone,” as having been made by Normanie was incorrect, and in fact we have since verified that the posting did not in fact originate in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
For the discomfort we would have caused Normanie’s mother, in particular, his relatives and close friends, we apologise most sincerely, and assure that the referenced concerned was not used with any ill-intent.
Justice Eddy Ventose
L-R: Justice Paul Webster and Justice Gerhard Wallbank.
V News 3
ÂPublic Servants can return to work,Ê assures PM
ON THE HEELS Of the Eastern Caribbean Appeal Court ruling in favour of his government in the Covid-19 Vaccine Mandate matter, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in a conciliatory gesture, has again invited public servants who were deemed to have abandoned their posts after refusing to take the Covide-19 vaccine as legislated, to return to their jobs.
The Appeal Court’s ruling was handed down on Wednesday.
In a radio broadcast on Wednesday, Dr. Gonsalves noted that the majority of public
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has offered what seems to be an olive branch, to those public sector workers who remain out of work.
servants who had not taken the vaccine, have returned to work, with all their benefits intact.
Of course, the return of public servants did not interfere with the court process in train.
“Any public servant, including teacher, nurse, doctor, police officer, who has not yet returned to work can still avail themselves of the opportunity to return to work. All you have to do is to indicate to the Chief Personnel Officer that you wish to return to work. Yom will be returned to work without any loss whatsoever of your pension rights.
These would be added to what pension rights you have after you have returned to work,” Dr. Gonsalves assured the public servants.
The Prime Minister in referencing the ruling handed down on Wednesday by the Eastern Caribbean Appeal, described the ruling as affording an
Response from Jomo Thomas Chambers
(Editor’s Note: the following is a statement from Jomo Thomas Chambers, who represented the public sector workers in the vaccine matter. The statement is carried verbatim.)
“THE COURT OF APPEAL issued a 2:1 majority decision allowing the Government’s appeal in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ vaccine case today. A powerful dissent was written by Justice Wallbank, who maintained that the Government’s decision to impose a vaccine mandate on certain public officers was unlawful and unconstitutional.
The Prime Minister and Minister of Health changed the definition of ‘abandonment’ when
they made regulations which prohibited unvaccinated persons from entering the workplace and which deemed them to have abandoned their jobs thus affecting their pension rights.
The legal team for the dismissed workers is disappointed in the majority decision delivered by Justices of Appeal Ventose and Webster. We believe that Justice Wallbank was correct in his dissent and that the High Court decision issued by Justice Henry was strongly grounded in a correct interpretation of the law.
We will read and study the judgment to gain a better appreciation of all of the views expressed in the decision. Thereafter, we will discuss with our clients all available options,
NDP disappointed with vaccine case ruling
THE OPPOSITION NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) has expressed disappointment with the February 12th ruling by the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, in the vaccine case which pitted public sector workers against the government.
opportunity for dialogue and healing.
Towards this end, and in a passionate appeal, Dr. Gonsalves continued, “I am asking the small group which didn’t come back, to please, come back. Let us be united and put this matter behind us… you can return to work and continue your case.”
Jomo Thomas, a member of the legal team that represented the public sector workers, is particularly disappointed in the majority decision of the two justices of the Appeal Court.
including an appeal to the Privy Council, and will take the necessary action.”
Dr. Godwin Friday and his NDP has been steadfast in calling for the reinstatement of ‘dismissed’ public sector workers during the court hearings.
That ruling overturned the High Court decision handed down by on March 13, 2023 by Justice Esco Henry, and upheld the government’s position on the COVID19 vaccine mandate.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the NDP described the Appeal Court’s ruling as “… a sad outcome for the hardworking public servants, teachers, nurses, doctors and police officers of St. Vincent and the Grenadines who lost their jobs because of the government’s vaccine mandate.”
The statement continued: “Today is not the time for the government to gloat; it is a solemn day. Lives and livelihoods have been irreparably damaged by the government’s vaccine mandate policy. However, as the Court of Appeal has ruled in the government’s favour, the policy continues.”
The NDP called on Prime Minister Gonsalves and his government to end the hardship of the affected workers by reinstating them immediately with full benefits. (See article on this page.)
“We are committed to creating a fair and just workplace for everyone,” the NDP said.
Gov’t
wins Vaccine Mandate Appeal
Continued from Frontpage.
(known as the vaccine mandate) were a breach of natural justice, unlawful, procedurally improper, and void.
The Ministry of Health and the Environment, The Public Service Commission, The Commissioner of Police, Attorney General and the Police Service Commission spearheaded the challenge to Justice Henry’s position.
The Court of Appeal ordered a stay of the High Court Judgement April 18, 2023. Arguments in the Appeal were heard May 2, 2024. Last Wednesday’s ruling was the latest twist of the saga.
The government’s team of lawyers included Dominican born Senior Counsellor Anthony Astaphan supported by Vincentian attorney Grahame Bollers.
The Covid-19 vaccine mandate emerged as a huge national concern, arousing deep feelings.
Double murder suspect nabbed
Stories: HAYDN HUGGINS
ALMOSTthree years after Omari Sargeant survived bullet wounds, reportedly inflicted by a former police officer as Sargeant attempted to flee after allegedly shooting three men, charges have been laid in connection with that incident.
Sargeant, a 26-yearold labourer of New Montrose, has been charged with the May 16, 2022 double murder of Elon ‘TV Head’ Barbour and Daniel Skerritt, as well as the attempted murder of Delbert Hogley, all of New Montrose.
The charges stemmed from an incident at New Montrose around 5:40
Lawyer pleads for mercy on ganja men
ATTORNEYGrant
Connell has called on Chief Magistrate Colin John to have mercy on ‘ganja men’.
Connell has been championing the cause of ganja men since his practice started about 20 years ago”. His recent call was made at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday while mitigating on behalf of Xavique Williams, who pleaded guilty to possession of 2,070 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.
Connell told the Court that if there was a ticketing system for persons charged with possession of under five pounds of marijuana, they would have the option of going to the Central Police Station and paying the ticket, instead of appearing in Court, which may result
in a much heavier penalty, and a criminal record.
But the Chief Magistrate told Connell that he should make that suggestion to the relevant authorities.
Connell said he had been doing that for many years, but “they (authorities) don’t seem to understand the reality of the poor”.
He hastened to add that marijuana doesn’t seem to be a ‘poor people’s thing’, anymore.
“I am asking you to have mercy on the ganja men. They will continue to come to court over and over. As long as the sun shines ganja will not stop growing”, Connell told the Magistrate.
He said that some years ago while he was at Chateaubelair he saw many boats on the shoreline with men,
p.m. on May 16, 2022, when two masked men emerged and opened fire on Barbour and Skerrit, who were among a group of men sitting at the roadside.
Barbour and Skerrit were shot several times, and taken to the Milton Cato Memorial where they later succumbed to their injuries.
Hogley, who was said to be a passerby at the time, was reportedly shot in the earlobe, treated at the hospital and discharged.
A man suspected to be one of the assailants, and later identified as Sargeant, was shot by a former police officer, as the suspect attempted to flee. He was found
sometime after at Ottley Hall with bullet wounds, and taken to the hospital for medical attention.
Sargeant was subsequently taken up for questioning but was released without charge.
However, a police release, this week, stated that following extensive investigations Sargeant was recently arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
Up to press time Thursday the other assailant was still at large.
Sargeant made an appearance at the Calliaqua Magistrate Court on Friday, February 7, but the matter was transferred
women and children getting into the boats.
“I thought there was some big catch on the bayside, but I was told they were just getting a ride to the neighbouring bays to venture into the hills to clean and harvest marijuana, to get money to provide for their basic needs”.
The lawyer lamented that ganja men are being treated as hardened criminals for “piece of bush”.
He said that the head of the Cannabis Revival Committee (CRC)Junior ‘Spirit’ Cottle has said that when there is a glut in the market, the value of marijuana drops to little or nothing because it will stay in the hills and rot.
Returning to the case at hand, Connell said his client was just trying to make ends meet and requested a fine not exceeding $750, with reasonable time to pay.
After applying the sentencing guidelines, weighing the mitigating factors against the aggravating, and granting the one-third discount for an early guilty plea, in addition to considering the value of the marijuana which the Court set at $350 per pound, the Magistrate fined Williams $750 to be paid by April 1 or three months.
In recent times, police seem to have stepped up their raids and searches for marijuana.
to the Serious Offenses Court.
He was not required to plead to the charges when he appeared at the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday and was remanded, pending a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I), slated for March 18.
Sargeant was not represented when he
appeared at the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court on February 7, but attorney Michael Wyllie represented him at the Serious Offenses Court on Tuesday.
Sergeant 563 Alex Primus of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) is leading the investigations which are ongoing.
ÂNolly BÊsÊ murder P.I. transferred
Nolwyn ‘Nolly B’ Bennett will have his PI heard in Calliaqua home town of the person whose death he is assuded of causing.
before a different Magistrate in a different Court.
The matter was initially before Chief Magistrate Colin John, during which his lawyer Grant Colin and Prosecutor Renrick Cato agreed to a Paper Committal Procedure.
However, Connell changed his mind after indicating to the Court that a video that was disclosed to him by the Prosecution was not showing anything.
Connell told the Court on Tuesday that he could not agree to something he could not see. He pointed out that the video must be shown, or there would have to be a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I.) so that the Court could see, and determine if there is enough evidence for Bennett to stand trial in the High Court.
Prosecutor Cato, however, indicated that if there was going to be a Preliminary Inquiry, the matter should be heard before a different Magistrate, since the relevant material to the case was already disclosed to the Chief Magistrate to be reviewed for Paper Committal.
In the Paper Committal, the evidence is reviewed by the Prosecution, defense and the Magistrate, following which the Magistrate makes a determination on whether there is sufficient evidence for the accused to stand High Court trial, while at a P.I, witnesses are called to testify.
The Magistrate agreed with the Prosecutor and transferred the matter to the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court over which Magistrate John Ballah presides.
Bennett is charged with the September 29, 2024 murder of Elijah Crease, a 34-year-old labourer of Calliaqua who reportedly died from stab wounds during an incident in East St. George.
FORMERNice Radio’s personality Nolwyn ‘Nolly B’ Bennett’s murder Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) will be heard
Omari Sargeant is charged with double murder and attempted murder.
Attorney Grant Connell told the court that as long as the sun shines, ganja will not stop growing.
Watch for Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
Dr. Alisha Bonadie, District Medical Officer (DMO) for the Pembroke District, did not hide the fact that HFMD was contagious and advised that proper procedures should to be taken to prevent its spread.
HEALTH OFFICIALShere
have noted an increase in reports of viral respiratory infections during the local ‘flu season’, i.e. from November to February, including an uptick in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD).
According to information that was included in a release dated February 10, 2025, from the Ministry of Health, a report which referenced one from the Surveillance Committee within the Ministry of Wellness and the Environment for the period January 26 to February 1, 2025, there were 77 cases of HFMD reported during the
period November to February.
The release stated further that for the year to date, there were 156 cases of HFMD.
Dr. Alisha Bonadie, District Medical Officer (DMO) for the Pembroke District, confirmed on radio on January 31 that officials within the Ministry of Health have been seeing an uptick in the numbers of persons infected with HFMD.
Bonadie warned that the disease was highly contagious and that proper procedures ought to be taken to prevent its spread.
Among the measures she recommended was the frequent sanitization and disinfection of schools, particularly at institutions where students had already become ill and infected others.
She encouraged personal hygiene, including the frequent washing of hands with soap after physical contact with others and that once symptoms begin to appear, the individual should take the relevant precautions to avoid its spread.
Symptoms begin with fever, sore throat, reduced appetite and within a day or two of infection. Painful sores may develop in the mouth which may become sore, making it hard for children to swallow.
It is often
accompanied by a rash that appears on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, she continued.
While HFMD affects primarily children under 5 years-old, Dr. Bonadie cautioned that adults can also become infected with the virus.
The Ministry of Health, because the figures for hospitalization of persons with HFMD were low, promised to continue monitoring the situation.
Other concerns
According to the release, reports of cases of gastroenteritis, fever and respiratory infections in persons older than 5 years old were over the threshold of what is considered normal.
Continuing, the report said there were also 12 cases of Influenza A, commonly referred to as H1N, with one person hospitalized.
There was one case each reported for chickenpox, toxoplasmosis, scabies and Hepatitis A and for the stated period.
According to the release, for the year to date, there were 66 cases of Influenza A resulting in 21.2 percent of infected persons requiring hospitalization; and two imported cases of H3N2 better known as ‘Bird Flu’. (DD)
Children who contract HFMD may develop painful sores in the mouth, on their hands/fingers, feet and legs.
House fire claims
ÂBeebsÊ life
POLICE HERE HAVE
CONFIRMED that the charred remains of Angelous ‘Beebs’ Robinson was removed from the scene of a fire that occurred on Friday, 6th February, 2025.
The fire destroyed a two-storey, part wood part concrete block dwelling house in Frenches, a predominantly residential area just on the perimeter of the commercial centre of capital Kingstown.
The building belonged to the Robinson family. ‘Beebs’ was said to be the lone occupant of the building, at the time of the fire.
Firemen responded to the fire a little after 6:00am but were unable to save the building. However, they were able to contain the fire
thereby preventing it from spreading to nearby dwelling houses.
Beebs’ body was discovered the following morning by fire personnel who had returned to the scene of the fire to begin investigations.
‘Beebs’ pedigree Angelous ‘Beebs’ Robinson was the last son of George and Ena Robinson.
Mr. Robinson owned and operated the Robinson Bookstore housed on the ground floor of what is known today as Russell Building on upper Back Street. He and his son Victor managed that bookstore which was for a long time the sole source of school (text) books, reference texts, periodicals (e.g. Time and Newsweek
The remains of the Robinson’s residence in Frenches, in which Beebs’ charred body was discovered. (Facebook photo)
magazines), local and regional newspapers, an array of comic books and greeting cards, before its closure in the early 1980s.
The bookstore was also a centre of informal discussions involving groups of male university graduates, groups of secondary school students and young people in general, in which ‘Beebs’ and his brother Victor would be involved.
Ena Robinson was a renowned musician/violinist who opened her house to offering music lesson to many young persons who went on to become accomplished musicians themselves.
Little wonder, therefore, that ‘Beebs’ became proficient in playing the piano. He
and his mother were a formidable duet who availed their skills at the Sion Hill, Anglican Church.
‘Beebs’ was a Bishop’s College Kingstown alumnus who, on graduating, went on to work in the accounts department of St. Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC), before he developed mental health challenges which plagued him for the balance of his life.
He was often seen in his later years around Kingstown, untidy and seemingly on aimless journeys, (perhaps because he also developed vision problems) and though he became the brunt of ridicule from members of the public, he was not known to be disrespectful or impolite to anyone.
Hayden Huggins, Court reporter for THE VINCENTIAN, who like ‘Beebs’ grew up in Frenches, recalled developing a friendship with “Beebs’ that blossomed during their secondary school days and lasted well into their adult lives.
He remembered his friend as being “fun to be around, generous and one who enjoyed the company of young ladies.”
As far as THE VINCENTIAN knows, Angelous ‘Beebs’ Robinson leaves to mourn one brother, having been pre-deceased by his parents, brother
Victor and sister Gloria.
As the RSVGPF Fire Brigade and other police personnel continue their investigations into the cause of and circumstances surrounding the fire and the death of ‘Beebs’, they are urging anyone with information that could assist in this investigation to come forward.
Persons with relevant details are encouraged to contact the following numbers: Fire Brigade: Ext. 4813; Police Control: (784) 457-1211; Public Relations and Complaints Department: (784) 485-6891.
Views V
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Of this and that:
Crime Fighting
A FEW ARDENT READERScalled and wanted to know if THE VINCENTIAN, was invited to that session involving the National Commission on Crime Prevention, and high-ranking members of the Royal SVG Police Force.
Our answer was a simple, “NO!!”.
But the inquisitive minds (readers) didn’t stop there. Some of them wanted to know, to paraphrase: “Well, how come last week’s editorial had to do with suggestions for a Crime Fighting and Prevention Plan?”
The response: The editorial was written without knowledge of the session as referenced and with no input from any of the parties involved in the session. THE VINCENTIAN prides itself on not ‘talking after the fact’ as is substantiated by, though exclusive to a (past) editorial that has bearing on a topical issue, that editorial entitled, ‘Paedophiles in our midst’.
We are pleased to have contributed not only to the ongoing discourse on crime and the police in this country, but for having advanced concrete proposal proposals for a Crime Fighting and Prevention Plan.
And to reiterate a position articulated in previous editorial columns, there can be no real and meaningful discussion on a National Crime Fighting and Prevention plan, unless that discussion involves all parties concerned - government and opposition, police, the Bar Association, trade unions, civic organisations, community (to include cultural and sports) organisations, churches, news personnel, past offenders, to name a few.
AIA and maintenance
Is it folly to assume that for an international airport, for that matter a modern port, luxury hotel, et al, that a trained maintenance crew would be set in place long before the entity becomes operational?
It is sad to learn, as we celebrate the eight anniversary of the official opening of the AIA, that a brigade of Cubans are scheduled to arrive here to serve as a maintenance crew for our airport. We hope there will be, at the least, an equivalent replacement number of locals who will be assigned to work with these Cubans.
Is it out of place to ask what in
Zeus’s name was happening as far as maintenance at the airport was concerned, since its opening? Were we operating on trial and error?
Frightening to think of what was happening, heartening to learn about the Cuban brigade.
A shallow attack
Is it coincidence that as soon as Cricket West Indies (CWI) made public its decisions with respect to ‘governance reforms’, which among other dictates allows terms of three years (from two) but a limit of three consecutive terms for its President and Vice president, that our Prime Minister saw it convenient (politically expedient) to raise question about Dr. Kishore Shallow ‘right’ to contest a general election in his country, while holding the position of President of CWI?
The principle inherent might be worthy of consideration, but the timing and what appears to be underlying factors in the Prime Minister’s pronouncement must be questioned.
Is there any truth in what school children have said and are saying that Dr. Shallow was once touted as a candidate for the ruling Unity Labour Party? If so, is this a ‘getback-at-him move’ now that Dr. Shallow has opted for candidacy on an opposition New Democratic Party ticket?
This recent questioning of Dr. Shallow’s legitimacy as a candidate and hints at disqualifying him so to speak, follows on previous efforts to discredit him as a candidate and an upright person.
It is interesting to note that many West Indies cricket officials, e.g. Julien Hunte - St. Lucia, Wes HallBarbados, Ricky Skerritt — St. Kitts and Nevis - have been active politicians before and after they were appointed/elected to positions on the Board of Directors CWI, once known as the West Indies Cricket Board.
If it is that the CWI constitution does not speak one way or the other to its directors contesting general elections in their countries during their tenure on the Board, who are we to question Dr. Shallow’s candidacy?
What is incumbent on us is to ensure that we hold Dr. Shallow to his commitment to put St. Vincent and the Grenadines, if or when he is elected as Parliamentary Representative for North Leeward.
Discussing politics can be troublesome but...
NAVIGATING THE POLITICAL conversation in our community can often feel like walking through a minefield, especially in our highly polarized environment. This can be true even when this conversation happens among friends, family, or coworkers. Some may say we should not do this in the workplace. After all, not everyone has the finesse to handle a political conversation without creating bad feelings. Like it or not, attempting to stifle political discussion during an election season is impractical and counterproductive.
It might be hard to believe, but organizations (workplaces, churches, and other civic organizations) can do things that embrace open, respectful dialogue and will be rewarded. In contrast, those who enforced a strict silence on political matters frequently encountered hidden tensions and reduced trust among their counterparts. We could inadvertently create a frustrated and disengaged constituent by suppressing political conversations.
To be clear, creating an open and inclusive culture in organizations cannot start and end with a political discussion. We must start by making each other feel comfortable and respected, and we must have developed a good listening environment. This will create trust and rapport, making the audience more receptive to one’s arguments or ideas. We must be sincere and show a willingness to be empathetic towards others.
Attempting political discussion in our organization will become complex and sensitive. The key to successfully navigating these conversations is approaching contentious discussions with a mindset grounded in mutual respect and empathy. If done correctly, it will transform potential divisive dialogues into opportunities for deeper understanding and connection. Instead of restricting or outright banning political discourse in the workplace, churches, or community organizations, we must promote and develop an environment where those discussions can be transformational. Imagine a place where political discussions are not met with hostility but are instead seen as a chance to bridge divides and enhance relationships. The power of this approach lies in our ability to reframe political conversations from battlegrounds into platforms for collaborative dialogue.
Too often, we believe that our political
parties are worlds apart; through no fault of our own, our system is designed that way. In my opinion, the two major parties are the same. The only argument today is who can do it better. We all have our country’s best interests at heart, but we will never know this if we continue to shout at each other.
We tend to see those who disagree with us as more extreme than we are. When we create spaces for an honest dialogue, we begin to see beyond the opinions and recognize the individuals behind them.
Our views of each other are often distorted by our perception that those with opposing views want to harm us. We must find ways to share our stories and experiences without fear. Our leaders must embrace open political conversation and foster an environment where the discussions can be approached with curiosity and respect rather than fear and division. It involves recognizing that while political discussions may be uncomfortable, they also offer invaluable opportunities for growth and connection.
By encouraging an atmosphere of understanding and empathy, leaders can turn potential sources of conflict into moments of meaningful engagement. It doesn’t need to be complicated. You can do some things as leaders to manage the election season better. We must end all politically motivated persecution, real or perceived. It would be nice if we could find a way to apologize to those we wronged. But I will not hold my breath on that one. We must give more than lip service to the idea that diverse opinions are welcome. Our objective should always be first to gain understanding. It isn’t about scoring points; it’s about building bridges and creating a learning mindset, not trying to conquer each other. When people feel safe and heard, they’re more likely to engage in meaningful dialogue and be open to change.
Ultimately, navigating politics at work and in our community requires more than just setting rules; it demands a commitment to creating a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and respected. It’s about finding common ground amidst the clamor of differing opinions and building an environment where dialogue leads to deeper connections rather than divides.
Horatio.
Ownership of Balliceaux
FOR SOME TIMEnow, the Garifuna people have been calling on the government to secure state ownership of Balliceaux. PM Gonsalves stated at the 11th International Garifuna Conference held at the UWI Global Campus conference room from March 11 to 13, 2024, that he was in touch with the claimed ownership, and that he would not pay the price they were requesting. He said that he was going to acquire it, and his Surveys Department was assigned to do an appraisal. PM Gonsalves was slated to deliver the keynote address on day two of the three-day Conference. His topic: “Representation of Reparatory Justice for Indigenous people in the Caribbean”. He didn’t make it on day two. His son, Camillo, Finance Minister delivered the address. However, he made it to the Conference on day three and gave an answer to the question stated above about state ownership of Balliceaux.
The writer of an article carried on pages 18-19 of the February 07, 2025 edition of THE VINCENTIAN, stated that Thomas Franklyn Linley became proprietor of the islands of Balliceaux and Battawaya in 1899 (64 years or so before the abolition of British slavery in 1835). There is no record as to whom the Linley bought from. Is it unreasonable to assume that the Linleys had something to do directly or indirectly with the 1797 Balliceaux worst genocide in our history?
The Linleys also owned an estate on the Leeward side that was acquired by the Colonial government.
We hope that Dr. Gonsalves would not make any payment to the Linleys until they can tell us from whom they purchased the islands concerned. In the meantime, we are in support of acquisition and formulation of a golden plan for an environmental friendly and spiritual development for those islands. This plan shall be from the bottom up.
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* If The PM has a slot every Wednesday on our Radio Station — state-owned NBC - why can’t the leader of the Opposition have a slot too?
* Will the report on what caused the tire to blow on the American Airlines aircraft be made available to the public?
* When the Modern Port becomes operational, are we going to have civilized persons gathering there to cheer/clap each time a ship docks?
* Are there going to be political rallies on the construction site of the Modern Port before general elections as was done during the construction of AIA?
* Why the World Boss is not writing to the real World Boss asking him to get ICE to go easy on Vincy immigrants?
* Does anybody in government have links to the Jamaican Company from which the government purchased lumber?
* How much of the salary that is paid to party loyalists as “advisors” end up in the party coffers, which a member refers to as a war chest?
* Is it the norm for a public servant A.G to be sharing lumber, steel, etc. with party supporters in a constituency he wants to contest the next elections?
Are we witnessing the death of the newspaper?
I AM ONEthose persons who pick up the local newspapers every Friday. In fact, my weekend is not complete unless I have all three papers to peruse. These days I pay particular attention to the editorials, the regular columns, letters to the editors. Depending on the subject matter, a few feature stories may capture my attention. There was a time when I attempted to read the papers from cover to cover but I no longer do. I don’t find them to be as attractive and compelling as a few years ago.
Rushing to buy the newspapers these days seems like a waste of time and a waste of money. Here are my concerns:
1. The news stories are redundant. It is likely that you have heard or read the before.
2. There is little or no effort to offer any depth or refreshing angle to a story.
3. Ads, interesting ads, are few and far between. In fact, most of the ads are placed by certain government departments, the courts, and lawyers’ chambers.
4. The physical quality of the papers appears to be deteriorating. The printing is poor and the paper is torn around the edges.
5. There is inconsistency in the publication. There are days when no paper comes out and there is no explanation.
Perhaps, we are witnessing the slow and painful death of the newspaper. I certainly hope not. As long as the papers are published, I will continue to buy. However, I urge the
W.I. missing out
DEAR
MR. EDITOR,
please allow me to revisit my pet subject, West
Indies Cricket. I don’t have to tell you, Mr. Editor, the
The MonkeyÊs Disgrace
DEAR EDITOR:I recently came across this poem many years after it was first introduced to me and others, in one of your English Language classes (1970s) at the St. Martin’s Secondary School. There is no doubt that the lessons contained therein transcend the test of time, and I am confident your readers will find it not only entertaining but instructive.
Paul, Jamaica
Three monkeys sat in a coconut tree Discussing things as they’re said to be. Said one to the others: “Now listen you two, There’s a certain rumour that can’t be true That man descended from our noble race — Why, the very idea is a disgrace!
“No monkey ever deserted his wife, Starved her babies and ruined her life; And you’ve never known a mother monk Leave her babies with others to bunk, Or pass them on from one to another ‘Til they scarcely know who is their mother.
“And another thing you’ll never see — A monk build a fence round a coconut tree, Forbidding all other monks to taste And letting the coconuts go to waste. Why! if I built a fence round a coconut tree Starvation would force you to steal from me. “Here’s another thing a monk won’t do: Go out at night and get in a stew, Or use a gun or club or knife
To take some other monkey’s life. Yes, man descended, the ornery cuss, But brother he didn’t descend from us!” Author unknown
Source: EnglishClub – posted by Josef Essberger
publishers to take a deep look at their respective publications and seek to implement measures to improve them.
Some may argue that there is no place for the traditional paper since everything is going digital and online. That may be so, but there is a place for the traditional. Electronic devices cannot totally replace newsprint!
Philbert J John mrpeejohn@gmail.com
feeling of shame, (I have gone passed disappointment), I was overcome with when I came upon the fixtures for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, only to discover that the West indies was nowhere in the fixtures.
My research tells me that the Champions Trophy was first played in 1998 and is a short cricket tournament to raise funds for the development of the game in non-test playing countries. Whatever it is, it has prestige.
I obviously asked myself “Why no West Indies?” and answered, reminding myself that we did not qualify for the ICC Champions Trophy because we failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup, resulting in our direct elimination from the Champions Trophy.
Then, Mr. Editor, the whole scenario came flooding back to me. We have been at the bottom rungs of standings in world cricket for some time.
Imagine, Bangladesh, which gained full ICC membership in 2000 (jus’ de udda dey) qualified for the Champions Trophy but the West Indies, once the world beaters, the envy of the cricketing world,
could not find a place among the eight qualifiers.
Take it or leave it, our cricket is a case of “How yo mek up yo bed, yo go lie ‘pon it”. We have too many experts who all feel they have the answers to how we can improve our cricket, and even after a train of coaches, we are still turning the corner to glory. That must be quite “a long” corner. Ah hope we doh lose a tire as we keep tunin de corna and en up off de road.
The budget for the competition is US$70 million, with US$2.2 million awarded to the winner, from what I have been reading. The stage is set and may the best team win. With or without us, the glorious game that we call cricket, with all its uncertainties, will go on.
Charles, Edinboro.
Christian Democrat
Argyle International Airport in 2025: Let’s celebrate
THE BLESSING OF AIA
THE BUILDING OF THE ARGYLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (AIA), firstly, has the significance, symbolically, to the people of SVG, at home and abroad, similar to that of the quest of the ancient Hebrew people, against all odds and in the face of determined opposition by enemies internally, to construct the Temple to house the Ark of the Covenant as told in The Chronicles, and akin also to the rebuilding of the city walls around Holy Jerusalem which had been broken for 112 years, as recounted in the Book of Nehemiah. The 8th anniversary of the AIA’s opening is on February 14, 2025. Let’s celebrate this extraordinary achievement.
Indeed, we in SVG built the AIA splendidly well under one political leadership, that of Comrade Ralph and the Unity Labour Party (ULP), from conception, to completion, to operation. David, the man after God’s own heart, oversaw the detailed plans and gathered most of the abundant resources to build the Temple, but it was left to his son Solomon to execute David’s vision. When the ULP came to office in March 2001, we inherited nothing to construct AIA – no plans, no resources, no materials, not even a ten-penny nail. But as with David and Solomon in the case of the Temple, and with the Prophet-Builder Nehemiah in the case of Jerusalem’s broken city walls, our leadership and the bulk of our people were blessed by God to do His work, and He imbued us with faith, hope, and love. In the same way that God brought help to David, Solomon, and Nehemiah from some persons who were not believers in the God of Abraham, He moved in His mysterious ways to cause help to be rendered to us in SVG by some nations and some leaders who were not adherents of the teachings of our Christ. He brought so many gifts to us from near and far. Amazing!
Secondly, the blessing of AIA has been a central plank in the transformation of our economy, a fulcrum around which the altered economic paradigm revolves, and a creator of jobs and inclusive prosperity for our people.
So, AIA is hugely symbolic and massively of practical benefit to all of SVG!
NDP’S OPPOSITION
The backward New Democratic Party (NDP) relentlessly opposed our construction of the AIA. The NDP mocked us in our efforts, spewed anger and bile at our endeavours, and conspired politically against its construction. All their doomsday predictions of the AIA have come to nought. Even, today, they wish it ill in so many insidious ways; indeed, the NDP and its fellow travellers are still active in seeking to undermine the efficacy of the AIA’s operations. Their perfidy will not cease so long as the Comrade and the ULP are in office; they in the NDP shamelessly proclaim their anxiety for a TASTE of office – they have actually stated that they want a “TASTE of the thing”; they are not interested in the people’s welfare; they hunger and thirst for power. Yet again, for a sixth successive time the NDP will fail at the polls. And the AIA is prospering, more than ever.
AIA’S OPERATIONS 2017 – 2024
As Comrade Ralph had informed Parliament, the government had decided to capitalise the operations of the AIA for the first four, or even five years. In other words, we anticipated that in those first years the AIA would likely show an operational loss; we thus planned for that with an annual subvention allocated to AIA’s recurrent operations. No one, however, could have reasonably anticipated a triple whammy in quick succession: the collapse of LIAT, and the COVID pandemic in 2020, and the volcanic eruptions and Hurricane Elsa in 2021; and their knock-on effects lingered.
The AIA opened on February 14, 2017, six weeks into that year. In that very year (2017), the passenger movement numbered 227,564; (these numbers include those from E.T. Joshua at Arnos Vale for the first 6 weeks); by the end of 2019, the number had increased to 251,105; in the dread years of 2020 and 2021, the respective numbers fell drastically to 81,467 and 55,003; indeed, the months like April 2020 and February 2021 saw near-total shutdowns with passenger counts below 2000. A recovery began in 2022 with 142,927 passengers; in 2023, the number rose further to 223,828. And in 2024, a record number of 282,261 passengers were chalked up. Over one million passengers have passed through AIA since February 2017 despite COVID, the volcanic eruptions, and Hurricanes Elsa and Beryl.
2024 PASSENGER MOVEMENT
The near-300,000 passenger throughput at AIA was impressive. December 2024 was particularly vibrant with total passenger movements rising to 33,511 over the record hitherto of 24,078 passengers in December 2023. In 2023, there were 10 airlines operating in and out of AIA, plus private aircraft; in 2024, there were 13 airlines plus additional private aircraft. Additionally, the growth in flight operations has been significant. In 2024, the AIA recorded a total of 6,033 flights, including 756 flights in December alone. This compares favourably to the numbers of the previous year: 5,160 flights for the year 2023, and 620 in December 2023. This upward trend in flight operations reflects the increasing demand for air travel and our airport’s expanding role as a vital transportation hub. We anticipate continued advancements in the coming years.
AIRLINE PARTNERSHIPS
In 2023, the following airlines operated regularly from AIA: Caribbean Airlines, Air Canada, American Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Inter Caribbean, Air Adelphi, SVG Air, and Mustique Airways. In 2024, additional airline partnerships out of AIA were formed: LIAT 2020 (commenced on October 4, 2024); Jet Blue Airways (nonstop flights between New York’s JFK and AIA started on October 9, 2024); Sunrise Airways (commenced on October 28, 2024); and WINAIR (initiated operations at AIA on November 16, 2024).
Vaccine mandate was cruel- NDP will reinstate workers
THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) is disappointed with the ruling on Wednesday 12th February 2025 by the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal in the Vaccine Mandate Case between the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the public sector unions. The court ruled in favour of the government.
We believe that the ruling of the Court of Appeal has dampened the hopes of the teachers, police and other public sector workers. While the government had the right to appeal the High Court’s ruling, it was incomprehensible why the government took such action against the workers of the state; a government which proclaims to be a ‘labour’ government. It was the only country in the region that took this spiteful and drastic action to fire state workers who were not vaccinated. Is this a government that cares about the welfare of the workers? Is this a government that cares about the well-being of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines? The dismissed workers have been suffering since 2021, and the Unity Labour Party (ULP) is to be blamed.
In November 2021, the government instituted its draconian COVID-19 vaccine mandate, requiring police officers, teachers, nurses and certain other government and state entities workers to take the COVID-19 vaccine, as a standard of qualification for work. Hundreds of workers were not vaccinated. As a result, they were fired from their jobs by a wicked and vindictive regime causing severe hardship and psychological pain for these workers and their families. A lawsuit was brought against the government by the public sector unions, which challenged the COVID19 vaccine mandate.
When the matter was heard in the High Court, the court ruled in 2023 that the workers did not leave their jobs but were terminated by the government and the court ordered the government to reinstate the workers with full benefits. The government appealed the ruling, and the Court of Appeal heard the arguments in May of 2024. It took almost a year for the judgement to be delivered. So, the hardship and the psychological pain of the workers and families who were affected continued during the period, public pleas were made by many, including religious leaders, to reinstate the workers but to no avail.
Finally, the judgement has been delivered. We did not receive the ruling that we anticipated. But there is hope for the teachers, police and other public sector workers. We reiterate our position. An NDP government will end the suffering of the affected public servants by reinstating them, with full benefits. Affected public servants won’t have to wait for any order from the government; you can simply return to work the day after the NDP forms government. We will work out the compensation matters ordered by the court as quickly as possible thereafter so as not to prolong the hardship.
It was one of the gravest acts of injustice committed by any government against its workers by this ULP government when it fired teachers, healthcare workers, police
and other public servants under its misguided covid vaccine mandate. However, Labour Party governments in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have a track record of abusing workers. The Milton Cato Labour government had teargassed teachers during their strike in 1975, and suffocated Kingstown with teargas. That remains a searing event that is still commemorated by the teachers’ union to this day, and this year being the 50th anniversary of the event, may increase the scale of celebration. Also, the failure of this government to reinstate the three teachers who contested general elections in 2010 for the NDP, although, there was a collective agreement between the government and the St. Vincent Union of Teachers.
The NDP’s position on this vaccine mandate matter was clear. While we, as a party supported vaccination as a means of combatting COVID-19, we were philosophically opposed to making the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory. Mandating vaccines– i.e. forcing people to be vaccinated against their will, is not who we are as a democratic society. It is also not who we wish to be as a people. And, firing government workers and taking away their benefits because they did not take the COVID-19 vaccine was cruel and counter-productive and created more unemployment and misery in our country.
Let us acknowledge that the world was caught off-guard and unprepared by COVID-19. No country was truly prepared to tackle a public health problem on such a large scale. We did not have any safe and effective vaccines against coronavirus; that only became available about a year or so later. It was therefore understandable, if concerning, that our vaccination rates were low, even though safe, effective, and free vaccines were available. As a democratic society, however, our concern and even frustration for some must not manifest into actions likened to dictatorship.
When did these workers with long service and valuable work experience suddenly become disposable so that they were easily replaced with new recruits? Statements by government officials about replacing police officers, teachers, nurses, including those who had many years of service and experience in their jobs with new recruits disrespected those affected employees.
The ULP administration has historically done nothing more than deprecate the views of others. They have stopped listening and therefore choose to take heavy-handed approaches when their leadership failures are laid bare for the world to see. The ULP has failed Vincentians. This ULP government must be made to pay a heavy political price at the polls for what it has done to the workers of this country. Based on the judgement of the Court of Appeal, it appears that the hardship and suffering will prolong as long as the ULP is in power. Vincentians must vote for the NDP at the next general elections to end the suffering.
Beacons of Integrity
“The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” – Robert “Bob” Marley (1945-1981) – Jamaican singer, songwriter, and musician.
THE NEWS MEDIA IS REPLETEwith reports of persons in “high places” whose words and actions reveal an absence of integrity. Our people, especially the youth, continue to cry out for mentors and role models in business, government, the church, and society at large, who are considered beacons of integrity –individuals who they can look up to and categorize as good examples to be followed.
The Oxford Dictionary defines integrity as, “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness”. Such a description beckons us to live lives that are righteous and upstanding. It demands our honesty and fairness. As Michelle Obama, wife of the 44th President of the United States of America, reminds us, “We learned about honesty and integrity — that the truth matters … that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules … and success doesn’t count unless you earn it fair and square.” Politicians who steal elections need to reflect on this. Business persons who extort customers by imposing exorbitant profits shout be guided by this. Workers who engage in activities that reduce their productivity and/or pretend to be ill when they are not should be aware of this. Medical officers who provide sick leave certificates when there is insufficient evidence that the patient warrants this must also be aware of their breach of integrity when they do so. Our list can be expanded to refer to individuals who engage in sexual harassment practices in the workplace. The examples balloon across all disciplines, races, religions, nationalities, and gender. And our society continues to cry out for beacons of integrity.
Politicians in many of our Caribbean nations have been advocating the need for integrity legislation. Some have progressed to having these enshrined in their laws and, in addition to this, have established commissions to have oversight of Members of Parliament in an effort to create and maintain transparency and accountability of their respective lawmakers and senior public servants. Unfortunately, some regional parliaments have not yet tabled integrity legislation for discussion or debate. However, we periodically hear whispers and read online postings highlighting the need for such legislation as the Caribbean civilisation blossoms to become increasingly enlightened and more economically stable. Caribbean citizens at home and in the diaspora now engage in heightened public discussion in relation to levels of accountability and transparency as speculations surface and ricochet in relation to possibilities of misappropriation of funds and the enrichment of some citizens. Society cries out for integrity in government,
business, and society at large. It is sad to listen to individuals who have compromised their principles and seek to blame others for their indiscretions and dishonesty. We reject such attempts to justify or rationalise wrong/evil. Dr. William Glasser (1925-2013), the American psychiatrist who championed the concept of reality therapy, advocated that we are all responsible for our actions. We choose whether we will be individuals who demonstrate and are guided by integrity. We reject the arguments submitted by those who seek to transfer their indiscretions to others. It is grossly unfair for individuals in authority to give directives to their direct reports to do wrong; to falsify statements or documents; to tell lies; to engage in sexual misconduct; and the like. However, we are guided by the wisdom of Chinua Achebe (1930-2013), the Nigerian poet and novelist, who reminds us that, “One of the truest tests of integrity is its blunt refusal to be compromised.” As a people we must be so grounded in our principles that we refuse to be enticed by those who may seek to “grant us favours” with the expectations that we will be obligated to them or unable to confront them when they do wrong because of our being “contaminated and compromised”. It is always better to live our lives in such a manner that when our children think of integrity, fairness, and caring, they think of us. We are encouraged by the pearls of wisdom shared by David A. Bednar (born 1952) when he reminds us that, “People of integrity and honesty not only practice what they preach, they are what they preach.” We must be (rather than pretend to be) beacons of integrity.
Confucius, the Chinese philosopher and politician, was right when he advocated that, “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.” Peace and purity will be evident throughout our society when integrity is upheld and treasured in our homes, schools, workplaces, and churches. We all have a role to play in making this possible. Each of us, in our own small way, must commit (and recommit) to making sure that we “cast a straight shadow”. When the light of truth is shone on us, we must be considered as beacons of integrity … regardless of what others may say or do. We must not be distracted by those who seek to justify doing wrong in order to get ahead in life. We walk to a different drummer. We sing from a different song sheet. Our vision is far wider than the gain of filthy lucre, power, or fame. After all, our focus must forever be that of being beacons of integrity.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Devastatingly disappointing
LAST WEDNESDAY’S DECISIONof the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal was devastatingly disappointing to the hundreds of public workers who depended on our courts and constitutions to protect us at all times, most notably during times of turmoil, distress and emergency.
No other court decision in Vincentian legal history was more eagerly awaited by citizens at home and abroad. If this decision is allowed to stand, it will radically enlarge the government’s power. It will, in turn, make a mockery of the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution and case law whenever governments invoke emergency powers.
In her March 13, 2023 decision, Justice Henry found the COVID mandate invoked by the government to confront the Plandemic unconstitutional, unlawful, ultra vires, disproportionate, and procedurally improper. The appellate court’s decision, with Justice Ventose and Webster in the majority, agreed with the government and reversed every finding and order of Justice Henry.
In a powerful dissenting opinion, Justice Wallbank argued that the dismissed workers presented enough facts and law for the court to dismiss the appeal. The decision will be dissected in the weeks and months ahead, but after reading the judgment, I am convinced that the appellate court got it wrong for the simplest reasons. It grants too much power and authority to the government the moment it claims that there is an emergency.
Justice Wallbank sets the stage for his dissenting opinion with the following:
It should also be recalled that Constitutions and legal safeguards of a State are important. They are typically expressed to embody the supreme law of a State already subject to the absolute rule of law. Constitutions have only one function: to protect the residents of a State from abuses of power and excess of authority by those who are supposed to serve them. Constitutions are not some pious symbol adorning the facade of an independent nation State; Constitutions are there to protect the residents of a State including and especially when times are difficult — and that includes in that period of recent history often referred to as ‘during COVID’. The magnitude and gravity of ‘COVID’, as perceived by many, including the decision-makers in government, did not, and cannot, trump the application of constitutional and legal safeguards. It would set an extremely dangerous precedent if governments can assume they will not be held by the courts to adhere to the demands of a Constitution or of the law if a situation is represented by the government and the media as sufficiently serious to warrant this. If a measure breaches legal or constitutional principles, then the gravity of a situation cannot save it. Constitutions typically contain mechanisms for dealing with emergency situations. As we will see, the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is no different. Where, as in this case, such mechanisms have not been used, the full force of constitutional and legal protections continue to apply.’
Among other observations, Justice Wallbank noted that SVG was the only country in the Caribbean region to take such draconian measures. The
government’s Covid policies were particularly noteworthy, especially when an analysis of the infection, hospitalisation, deaths, and recovery numbers was conducted. The dissenting justice also found that by its decision, the court was rewriting longestablished law on what constituted abandonment of one’s job.
Having aggressively pursued, mocked, smeared and scorned workers who had genuine concerns about the efficacy and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine with the mantra ‘No Jab, no Job,’ the government has adopted a policy to encourage dismissed workers to reapply for their jobs. Prime Minister Gonsalves repeated his call within hours of the court’s division. No reinstatement, reapply and beg Papa for a bly.
The government’s plea to dismissed workers is not grounded in compassion or respect for human rights. The frantic call for dismissed employees to reapply for their jobs comes from a position of political necessity. Gonsalves and his clans’ men knew the vaccine mandate was incredibly unpopular. He knows that his government has won the ire of not only dismissed workers but a large group of public employees and their families who were forced to take the vaccine, and have since experienced serious health complications and death. Other citizens, including many party supporters who succumbed to a combination of blind loyalty to their leader and fear, have openly expressed ‘buyer’s remorse.’ In addition, many party insiders openly fear that the Covid mandate and Gonsalves’ dictatorial implementation may be the ‘Achilles heel’ in his bid for a sixth term.
Vincentians owe it to themselves not to be taken by Gonsalves’ newfound expressions of compassion. Even as workers move to appeal this decision to our highest court, the triumph handed to the government for its draconian mandate must be turned into a pyrrhic victory. This disappointing court decision must catalyse citizens to renew their commitment to remove Gonsalves from the seat of power.
The people can vindicate themselves whenever the next elections are called. Every honest Vincentian knows that apart from the deadly gun violence that kills primarily young men annually, the Covid injection created a new and dangerous situation where never in the history of this country has so many parents buried their children. There is now an explosion of aggressive cancers that are occurring mainly among the vaccinated.
Dismissed workers have suffered with their jobs and livelihoods. Vaccinated citizens have experienced deteriorating health and other strange occurrences in their bodies. Others have tragically died.
The crisis of confidence confronting this government is profound and fundamental. This problem runs deeper than ULP and NDP. This sad reality calls for a reset and recharting of our national trajectory.
This government deserves to be punished in the next elections. Only the people can fail themselves. All of us concerned about SVG must use our influence to ensure that our nation delivers a decisive defeat to the ruling Unity Labour Party.
North Leeward, a curse of poli-tricks
by CARDEN A. MICHAEL
AS THE ELECTIONdraws near, I must make myself clear— I am neither ULP nor NDP. I am an independent thinker scrutinizing the two major political parties. Once again, they are back in North Leeward, plowing through with the same old recycled, deceptive politics, duping and tricking the people.
A history of poli-tricks
The people of North Leeward have long been victims of political deception. For decades, this area has been blighted, dressed in the rags of poverty, want, and neglect. Sadly, for just as long, the people themselves have been their own worst enemies. From the days of the E.T. Joshua administration to the present government, ignorance has persisted like an unrelenting tide, rising and raging like the stormy sea. Grudges, hatred, triviality, and petty rivalries are plain to see. If it were up to me, I would ban all deceitful politicians from my territory. If a politician tricked me once, they would never deceive me twice. Hell no! I would not allow these crocodile, reptilian politicians to play me for a fool.
The curse of partisan politics
One of the greatest obstacles to progress in North Leeward is partisan politics. It
has kept us from forging ahead as a united community striving for excellence, harmony, and accountability. If we held our parliamentary representatives to a higher standard, we would have demanded long ago that the government fix the hazardous road in Cumberland.
The least progressive constituency
North Leeward remains one of the least progressive constituencies in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. What strikes me most is that the people of this region are among the most passionate when it comes to politics. Politicians know this all too well, using the people’s ignorance and divisiveness to their advantage. Frankly, North Leeward is getting exactly what it deserves.
Yet, despite the complexity of North Leeward, this constituency holds immense potential in agriculture, fisheries, and eco-tourism. On any given day, over twenty yachts can be seen anchored in the harbors of Chateaubelair and Cumberland. But what has been done to harness this potential? Where are the developments that could bring prosperity to the people?
The betrayal of Richmond’s farmers
If the people of North Leeward had the militancy of
Shaka Zulu, Malcolm X, or the Black Panthers, Mr. G would not have been able to take away the Richmond farmers’ land without proper consultation. More so, he would have been forced to show them respect by offering fair compensation for their land. By no means would the government have dared to commit such an atrocity against the Punnetts, the Minors, the Joachims, or the privileged aristocratic families
of this country. But they did it to the “Negroes” of North Leeward because they know we are like barking dogs that never bite. They know the polarization and division that politics has created among us. So, they took the farmers’ land without an apology, and we let them.
Environmental destruction in Richmond
Now that elections are near, I see some folks suddenly raising concerns about the plight of the people. But I hope they are not merely using the land degradation in Richmond as an opportunity to endorse another rogue politician. What is happening in Richmond is nothing short of ecological terrorism–an outright atrocity against the environment. The hypocrisy of the authorities is astounding. These are the same government officials who condemned ganja farmers for cutting down trees, blaming them for the devastating floods of 2013. And yet, they now allow the wholesale destruction of Richmond’s landscape for profit.
Don’t just blame the government
Let’s be real–this kind of environmental degradation would never be allowed in Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, or Palm Island. Why? Because the government
fears the rich and powerful. But they have no problem trampling on the weak and gullible.
Richmond: A sacred ground
Richmond is sacred ground, a place where ancestral spirits still roam from the days when the British ran their estates. This hidden oasis should have been preserved, transformed into a national park where both locals and visitors could experience the beauty of nature.
Instead, the rich and powerful continue to massacre the landscape of Richmond for financial gain. But I warn you–when Mother Nature decides to rebel, there will be hell on earth. When that time comes, neither man nor beast will have a place to hide.
The power of the people
Travis, I want you to understand that stopping the destruction of Richmond will take more than just words, it will require decisive, united action. This fight is bigger than politics; it is about protecting our home, our heritage, and our future. Real change will only come when at least 70 to 80 percent of the people of North Leeward rise together with one voice, refusing to be silenced by deception and greed. Only through unwavering solidarity can we demand accountability, reclaim our land, and safeguard it for generations to come.
The power is in our hands–if we choose to use it. The question is–are we ready?
In the shadow of the Soufriere volcano, the northern leeward coast of St. Vincent is very picturesque.
Bagga whalers say: „No more killing of Orcas‰
WHALERSin Barrouallie (affectionately referred to a Bagga) have committed to cease and desist from hunting and killing Orcas (Killer Whales).
This landmark decision and an attendant formal agreement were arrived at during a meeting held January 16, 2025, at the Fisheries Division, facilitated by the Chief Fisheries Officer, to discuss the stopping of the hunt.
The agreement to stop the hunt and killing of Orcas was signed by Chief Whaler Samuel Hazelwood and three other whalers on the one hand, and Louise Mitchell, on behalf of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund (SVGEF).
The meeting followed the presentation of a proposal to the SVGEF to fund two Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), which would facilitate the catching of tuna, in exchange for the whalers giving up the Killer Whale hunt.
The proposal was accompanied, according to a release from the SVGEF, by a letter signed by Hazelwood, stating inter alia, “… sensitive to the growing concern over the past 10 plus years to the killing of the Orcas (also known
as Killer Whales), the whalers of Barrouallie have decided to stop the hunt of the Killer Whale,”
That agreed, the FADs are being built in Barrouallie by Hazelwood, following international best practices (no nets) as well as guidance from our partners at Blue Marine Foundation. They will be installed off the leeward coast of St. Vincent.
Commenting on the decision of the Barrouallie whalers, Louise Mitchell said “I want to congratulate the whalers of Barrouallie, in particular Mr. Samuel Hazelwood, for being out front on this initiative. It is not easy to spearhead change, but there are times when change is the right thing to do, for your community, for your country and for the preservation of the planet. Whales are known to be the greatest sequesters of carbon and their conservation helps to stop the warming of the planet, which is putting our very existence on earth at risk.”
Hazelwood shared his view stating, “We will desist from catching the killer whales. We realise this is an issue, Caribbean wide and even
worldwide. Although we make a good bit of money from the killer whales.. there are times when we do have to come to a compromise so that other people can feel a bit at ease in relation to how we are fishing.”
For the past ten years or so, the SVGEF has been calling for a gradual shift towards whale watching, and has been working hard in the whaling community of Barrouallie to create alternative livelihoods towards this goal.
As per the release from the SVGEF, the whalers have honoured the agreement, even though no legislation has yet been passed in Parliament.
Since the agreement whalers have reported seeing pods of Orcas in recent weeks and that they have made safe passage in the waters of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
With optimism, those who are engaged in the effort to see the end of whaling all together in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, consider this recent agreement as the beginning of a change in dishing traditions in the country.
Key persons in detailing the agreement that ends Orca hunting and killing (L-R): Stephan Hornsey and Louise Mitchell of the SVGEF, and Chief Whaler Samuel Hazelwood.
When the Orcas were caught they were brought to the shore for dissection after which the meat was sold.
Former Haitian first lady appeals to Trump
IN FEBRUARY LAST YEAR,shock waves reverberated across the region right to the door of the US President’s Oval office, when a Haitian judge investigating President Jovenol Moïse’s assassination, charged his widow, Martine Marie Étienne Moïse the former prime minister and an ex-chief of police with complicity in the killing of President Moïse.
The 122-page leaked document, detailed how Moïse’s widow, allegedly conspired with former prime minister Claude Joseph to kill the president, intending to replace him herself.
President Moïse was said to have been gunned down at his private residence in Petion-Ville, a suburb of Haiti’s capital, Port-auPrince, at around 1 a.m. on July 21, 2021, by a group of “professional killers” who had stormed the residence.
Madam Moïse has remained stoic in the face of the allegations and recently added a new twist to the ongoing saga surrounding her husband’s assassination.
She has written to the newly inaugurated United States PresidentDonald Trump, asking him to declassify all Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and State
Department documents related to the assassination of her husband.
In her appeal, she wrote inter alia, “Like you, he was targeted with a coordinated character assassination campaign for his ambitious and bold reforms. Also like you, he was the target of physical assassination attempts.”
There has been no response from the White House to date.
Martine Marie Étienne Moïse
Argyle International Airport in 2025: Let’s celebrate
Continued from Page 10.
And on Saturday December 7, 2024, the AIA welcomed the arrival of three American Airlines flights from three major cities in the USA (Miami, Charlotte-North Carolina, and New York JFK).
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 2024
Preliminary numbers for the financial year ending on December 31, 2024, indicate that the AIA had an operating gain of $2 million before subvention. Total revenues increased from $18.26 million in 2023 to $28.04 million in 2024, in part reflective of the restoration of the pre-COVID service charge of US$40 (in June 2023) and the subsequent increase to US$55 in June 2024.
Revenues from ground handling services increased by 20 percent over 2023 with revenues in this regard rising from $7.8 million in 2023 to $9.4 million in 2024.
Some expenses showed notable increases: Salaries increased by 6.7 percent to $10.6 million in 2024 as over 100 additional staff members were hired to help sustain operations as flights increased. Repairs and maintenance expenses also showed increases; overall, expenses in 2024 went up by 5.5 percent over 2023. The staff at AIA currently numbers close to 450. It is to be noted that even in the very rough days of 2020, 2021, and 2022, AIA never laid off any staff member. Some people took that for granted.
The audited financial statements for 2021 and 2022 have been completed by the auditors. Work is being done on the accounts for 2023 by the auditors.
SOME OTHER SIGNIFICANT HIGHLIGHTS IN 2024
There were some other significant highlights in 2024, presented below summarily:
On May 24, 2024: AIA conducted its first comprehensive emergency simulation exercise.
In 2024, AIA warmly received the first female and first male Vincentian American airline pilots.
AIA was the locale for the CELACCARICOM initiative on the GuyanaVenezuela border issue. The outcome was the much-heralded Argyle Declaration signed by the Presidents of Guyana and Venezuela, brokered under the leadership of Comrade Ralph. Peace and Love!
The Sandals “Meet and Greet Lounge” established.
Movements of leaders for the CELAC Summit on March 1, 2024, at Sandals Resort.
Handling of all incoming passengers (including cricketers) for the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 Games and the BangladeshWest Indies series.
In April/May 2024, AIA and the Public Service Union concluded relevant negotiations and averted possible industrial action.
STRATEGIC PLANS FOR 2025
Among the strategic initiatives at AIA for 2025 are the following vital areas:
Enhanced Customer Service Offerings: Launch of a well-equipped executive lounge; introduction of two additional restaurants and a new dutyfree shop.
Deployment of Advanced Technologies: This is aimed at capturing real-time passenger feedback via digital kiosks and mobile applications.
Enhanced Maintenance Programme in all areas.
Airport Masterplan Study: This is to guide further airport development.
Compliance and Standard: Strengthening aviation safety, security, and operational standards, for operational excellence.
Human Resource Development: Further training; enhanced professionalism; implementation to group medical and life insurance plan.
INVESTMENTS, JOB, AND INCLUSIVE PROSPERITY
AIA has brought in its wake huge investments, increased employment, and inclusive prosperity for all concerned.
Already, AIA has brought huge hotel investments way in excess of EC $1 billion: Sandals Resort; Holiday Inn; Myah’s Suite; expansion and upgrade of numerous hotels including Hotel Alexandrina, La Vue, Beachcombers; construction of several guest houses and apartments; hotel facilities are being constructed, though slowly, at Peter’s Hope and Ratho Mill, huge increase in “Airbnb” facilities for visitors.
Further investments have occurred in ancillary plants, equipment, and services: Restaurants, night clubs, tour buses and taxis, water sports, land sports, entertainment, etc.
Massive creation of new permanent jobs: Nearly 900 at Sandals Resort alone. Opportunities are enhanced for farmers, fishers, crafts people, entertainers, and others in the range of ancillary tourism and leisure facilities.
More investments are at hand: Sandals are about to start-up construction of 18 additional highquality villas at an estimated cost of nearly US $20 million. The Marriott Hotel (projected investment of over US $120 million) is scheduled to start by mid-year 2025. There are others in the pipe-line. Stay tuned!
SUMMATION
The vision of the ULP is bearing fruit handsomely for the people of SVG. It is all around for everyone to see. The AIA is a central part of this vision becoming a lived reality. Other parts include the facilities in education, health, housing, sports, culture, physical infrastructure (Canouan airport, bridges, roads, sea, and river defences), advanced applied technologies including information technologies, and other public polices in areas such as social protection, good governance, public order and safety, regionalism, and international solidarity (foreign policy). And so, it’s six in a row. Labour is working in the people’s interest.
Dissatisfied sexually
Dear George,
ICONFIDEDin a male friend that my boyfriend has issues with me wanting sex more than once every day. My boyfriend is interested in having sex at bedtime, i.e. once a day, and thinks I am unreasonable to ask for more.
I believe we should be making use of every opportunity that presents itself.
Having said that to my friend, he has proposed that I do it with him as often as I want… two to three times daily if that would make me happy. He further said I do not have to leave my boyfriend meaning I would have the best of both worlds, and promised to keep the arrangement just between us.
His proposal is rather tempting. Should I take him up on it?
Thinking Out Loud.
Dear Thinking Out Loud,
It is never a good idea to step outside of your relationship. Things will appear to be perfect and quite rosy at the beginning, but it is guaranteed to go sour at the back end.
Have a talk with your boyfriend and let him know how important it is for your sexual needs to be met. Be reasonable with your demands and see whether both of you could arrive at a compromise.
If you are unable to do so then you should move on, since remaining in a relationship in which you are not satisfied will only lead you to go outside the relationship, which will not be healthy.
„Cut the rope, man‰
Dear George,
IT’S BEEN A YEAR since I was laid off from my job.
My girlfriend and I live together and when I was working, I attended to all her needs — including her travel overseas. Now that she is the bread winner and pays the rent (I chip in with food when I can) it’s a different case. She insults me at every turn, even embarrassing me in front of her friends.
Recently, she gave me one month to find work or she would end the
relationship, and I would have to find my own place.
A week ago, I received news from a company who was prepared to hire me but the job required me to relocate overseas. The salary is good. I am doubtful about telling my girlfriend. She has shown me her true colours, and I do not think this is the kind of woman I want to settle with for the rest of my life. Your advice, please.
Tired of The Embarrassment.
Dear Tired,
I can understand your story and feelings.
From what I understand from you; your girlfriend does not measure up to your criteria. Be very honest with her. Explain to her why both of you do not have a future together; that you need someone who can be supportive when things are down.
It is better if you cut that rope now and focus on what’s ahead for you.
George.
An unreasonable shift
Dear George,
I TOLD MYboyfriend from the outset that I wanted to have children; that I was from a big family and children were important to me. He agreed. After one year of being together, he told me he was not so sure about having children right now, maybe three years down the road, and he wanted one child only.
I told him I was leaving the relationship because he had deceived me. He said I was only doing that so I could be with someone else. George, do you think I have a good reason to leave?
Unbelievable!
Dear Unbelievable,
It is always good to lay out on the table all your expectations so that there can
be no misunderstandings down the road.
Family is important to you, albeit a big one, and you articulated that to him at the onset. He is now backing out and that goes contrary to your dreams and plans.
You have the right to say, I am not in agreement with the sudden shift and therefore, I’m out. Good luck going forward.
George.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Be a leader, not a follower! Keep business dealings at a high level of integrity. When connecting with loved–ones make allowances rather than expect too much. Money is on the increase, stay positive. To understand what a friend is going through, listen to what they are not saying.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
If you want to change your life, you need to change your life – take action. Work is demanding, but don’t let spending extra hours at the office cause you to neglect your health. A friendly heart–to–heart chat with someone close can prepare them for what’s to come.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Look for solutions, not problems. When you have a positive attitude, it can improve every area of your life. Tighten the purse strings – this is not a week to be extravagant. At work, use your common sense to stand out from the crowd.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Love and work can connect when you least expect. Say “yes” to business events. Your perfect partner could be closer than you think. Don’t back away from a challenge; it’s what keeps your spirit alive. A financial hic–cup will be short lived.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
For love to last, you need an unbreakable connection of trust and respect. Be optimistic at work, with lucky stars on your side, anything is possible. Beautifying your home creates a sense of peace and harmony for family closeness to grow.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Love and money often connect, and how you deal with this combination will determine the outcome. Don’t get confused, business is business, even if it does fall in to the personal area of your life. At work, don’t let a past incident have influence over the decisions you make today.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Be diplomatic. Watch what you say and how you say it. A sensitive comment can be taken the wrong way. Beware of being tempted to indulge in an out–of–control retail therapy splurge. Great things are happening; the best is yet to come!
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Finish what you start. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at work, deal with one thing at a time. With money, be patient and finances will turn in your favor. If the moment of truth has arrived in your love life; it may be time to give someone the key to your heart.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
It can cause mistrust when you keep secrets from a sweetheart. If you have something to say, don’t hold back. Divulge how you feel to clear the air. With money, check the fine–print. You are in control of your life, keep it that way.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Your career life is headed for the top; you can take a giant step ahead now. The right people will step forward to help you – look for the sign posts of synchronicity. Love and friendship go hand–in–hand. With money, be optimistic.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)
Passionate love moments can have your heart racing. Couples can tie the knot. Singles can meet someone wonderful. Work life is up for review with change on the horizon. People you meet now can make life–changing decisions. Think carefully about your next moves and those you share life with.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Be career smart – focus on the details to see what’s really happening. It is easier to make money when you are passionate about what you do. When discussing a sensitive topic, tread carefully, someone close could be emotionally fragile.
ACROSS
1.Golden calf, e.g.
5. Record players (abbr.)
8. Address abbr.
11. Clinton AG Janet
12. Warmth
13. __ Lancelot
14. Brown meat
15. Merchant who buys from foreign sources
17. Unburden
19. Shuns
20. Needle and __
23. Dick Cavett’s home st.
24. Color
25. Actress Foster
27. Groups
31. Designation indicating a shortened word
33. Numerals (abbr.)
35. Command to a fly
36. Designer Mizrahi
38. Choose
45. Invent 48. Topeka’s st.
49. Fingerprints, e.g.
51. Lowers the lights
55. Cul-de-__ 56. Religious portrait
57. Nights before holidays
58. Elected ones
59. Actress Cannon DOWN
1.Taxing agcy. 2. Low grade
3. “Snakes __ Plane” (2 wds.)
4. Actor Peter
5. JFK’s party (abbr.)
6. Geisha’s home
7. Cooking appliances
8. __ spumante
9. Competed
10. Goes astray
12. Undisclosed
40. In the past
41. “__, hum bug!”
43. Actress Merle
16. Lounging garments
18. “I think, therefore __” (2 wds.)
20.
21.
22. C&W singer McEntire
26. Muck
28. Burn the outside
29. Take-out phrase (2 wds.)
30. Shortly
32. Fanatical
34. Out loud
37. __ point (2 wds.)
39. Schedule abbr.
44. Called it quits
45. Lucie Arnaz’s dad
42. From this time
Siamese
Wheel centers
46. “__ Almighty”
47. Tayback and Damone
50. Rollaway 52. Princeton wall covering 53. “Oh, give __ home…” (2 wds.) 54. ID digits
CWI adopts governance reforms
Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies (CWI), described the reforms as a bold and uncompromising step toward stronger, more transparent, and accountable leadership.
CRICKET WEST INDIES
(CWI) full Member shareholders officially approved a historic set of governance reforms at a Special Meeting of
Members of Cricket West Indies Inc. on Sunday, 9th February 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Full Member shareholders who
CWI board members who attended the meeting that approved the reforms.
attended this meeting were the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA), Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Leeward Islands Cricket Board (LICB), Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), and Windward Islands Cricket Board (WICB).
This landmark decision represents a significant step in modernizing the organization’s governance structure, enhancing accountability, and ensuring the longterm sustainability of West Indies cricket.
According to what was released to the public, at the forefront of these reforms was the introduction of a term
limit of a maximum of three terms of three years each from the previous two years, for the positions of President and Vice-President. The CWI Directors said this critical change “ensures fresh leadership opportunities, promotes continuity while preventing stagnation, and aligns CWI’s governance framework with modern best practices.”
This change will take effect from the next
Maloney breaks Milrose Record
VINCENTIAN
OLYMPIC
FINALIST- Shafiqua Maloney, ran a meet record 1:59.07 to take the win in the women’s 800m at the 117th Millrose Games at the Armory Track & Field Center in New York, on Saturday, February 08. The Millrose Games is one of the signature meets of the USA indoor season, and is the fifth gold series meet on the World Indoor Calendar.
Presidential and VicePresidential election, which is due in March 2025.
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow, an active politician in here in SVG, says he counts as a success, being able to realise long overdue reforms to the governance of the game regionally, and hailed the passage of these reforms as a landmark achievement.
organization, uphold transparency, and secure a brighter future for West Indies cricket. We move forward together, committed to the growth and success of the game we all love.”
Addressing what some observers say is a division within the Board, the CWI boss poured cold water on the ‘finger pointing’, saying they will work together.
Olympic fourthplacer Maloney dominated the race and was well on her way to victory when she took the bell for the final lap.
Shafiqua Maloney hits the finishing tape ahead of all other runners in the 117th Millrose Games, Saturday, 8th February, 2025.
Maloney, who narrowly missed out on a medal at the Paris Olympics last year, also established a new world lead with her run on Saturday, ahead of Americans Olivia Baker (2:00.02) and Kaela Edwards (2:00.14).
This followed on another feat by Maloney who, last month, clocked 1:24.60 in the 600m, to reset her previous indoor national record.
She was elated after her win, saying, “I have been training really hard for the past couple months…. I am happy with my time. I ran faster last week but I am happy with what I did today.”
Looking ahead to both the indoor and outdoor seasons, Maloney declared, “I believe I have a lot of momentum from last year but I know I still have to do the work. I am not where I want to be yet … I came off the Olympic knowing where I want to be, but I am still putting in the work.”
And what are ambitions for
the year? “I want to be among the best. I know it takes hard work to do so. I have been doing the hard work and trust in God, myself and my training. I am working with my coach because at the end of the day, he sees things that I cannot see and gives me feedback… it is a collective effort to get where I want to be,” the Richland Park native said.
In addition to holding the national record for the indoor 600m, Maloney also holds national records for the indoor and outdoor 800m and the indoor mile.
“….. With the implementation of longoverdue term limits and critical governance reforms, we are taking a bold and uncompromising step toward stronger, more transparent, and accountable leadership. For years, governance has been at the heart of regional debate, with stakeholders demanding change. This is not just reform; it is a necessary transformation that will ensure Cricket West Indies is led with integrity, vision, and responsibility. These changes lay the foundation for a more dynamic and forwardthinking institution, one that truly serves the best interests of West Indies cricket.”
President Shallow also stated: “For decades, I have championed term limits in leadership, ensuring fresh ideas and new energy at the helm. I fought for this principle as President of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Windward Islands Cricket Board, and I stand by it today. While the decision was not unanimous, there is no division in Cricket West Indies. Every territorial board stands united in one common purpose–to strengthen our
Speaking specifically to the Guyana Cricket Board and Barbados Cricket Board’s recent issues, Shallow said, “I’m happy that both BCA and GCB reps were present and they participated in the exercise. We had great conversation and discussion around governance and other cricket-related matters and be able to ventilate matters as a board, as shareholders that is really great, we are quite pleased as an entire board, quite pleased with this development.”
And as the process is set in motion to elect a head of the CWI board in March of this year at their annual general meeting, incumbent President of Cricket West Indies Dr. Kishore Shallow is unsure whether he will seek reelection.
According to Shallow, “When the time is right, I will make that decision. I’m considering it, I’m open to going on for another term, it is something I will obviously decide when I have finished my consultation with the other directors and if the support is there and the desire is there for me to continue, then I’m committed.’
Cycling Union embracing BMX riders
TO SOME THEYare nuisances on the road… a group of youngsters who are adventurous daredevils. Their increasing numbers on the main and side roads of the country has prompted discussions in many quarters, with individuals calling for a ban on the use of public roadways.
However, to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union, these riders, with guidance and culturing, can emerge as a valuable asset of the local Cycling programme. Hence, the Cycling union has embarked on helping the young
riders transition into competitive cycling.
President of the SVG Cycling Union - Shimano Bailey in revealing his organisation’s plans, underlined safety as their priority.
“We have started in the schools where we have embarked on programmes with them, teaching basic safety techniques, because that is paramount”, Bailey stated.
Bailey noted that the increase in these riders on the roads, is coupled with the increase in the number of motor vehicles.
Shimano Bailey, President of the SVG Cycling Union, has committed his Union to work with the BMX riders to involve them in an organized programme.
“The challenge is on as the increase in BMX and other casual riders is coupled with more and more motor vehicles, whilst we do not have the luxury as other countries to have bicycle lanes, so ways and means must be
found to have that coexistence, in a safe environment for all”, the SVG Cycling Union President acknowledged.
Bailey proffered that finding a middle ground is critical, as Cycling offers many solutions to health issue not to mention serving as a means of getting around the country.
“We cannot slight the many benefits of Cycling as it leaves no carbon foot prints. It helps to combat Non — Communicable Diseases, making us a healthier and more productive nation and naturally extend our lifespan”, Bailey reasoned.
Bailey who is a Social Worker, highlighted the role a group of youngsters who are popular on Sundays on their bikes, riding in large bunches, crediting them for using Cycling to “stay out of trouble”.
“As simple as you see them, they have an internal
organization structure, WhatsApp group. They are a bunch of young men, who ride many miles on a Sunday and most of all, they are not involved in mischief, but having healthy fun”, Bailey advanced. Bailey is optimistic that some will eventually transition into competitive Cycling.
NL Predators, Hope IntÊl in Premiership battle
NORTH LEEWARD Predators and On Trac Hope International are going toe to toe, as the race for the Premier Division title of the 2024-2025 St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) National Club Championships intensifies.
After ten matches each, both are locked on 22 points, but Predators leads race thanks to a better goal differential.
Both Predators and Hope International have seven wins, a drew and two losses.
In third place, also after ten matches, is Layou on 17 points, with defending champions of the 2022-
2023 edition, Je Belle - in fourth place on 16 points, but with a match in hand.
Meanwhile, the stoic Awesome has 5 points from ten matches, and occupies the fifth place in the standings.
Previous leaders- Avenues United has slipped to sixth, stuck on 12 points from ten matches, losing their last six matches on the trot.
The SVG Cycling Union though wants those in authority to find a suitable piece of land to establish a BMX Track.
In seventh place is Sion Hill, 11 points from ten matches, just ahead of BESCO- Pastures and Campdonia-Chelsea on 10 points.
SVGFF takes action
PREMIER Division Club - SV United has had three points deducted from their tally. This, as the Disciplinary Committee of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) found the club in breach of Article 55 of the code and Article 9.5 of the Regulations, governing the execution of the 2024-2025 National Club Championships.
Based on a protest made by Avenues United, it was revealed that SV United featured an ineligible player - Kimron
Quashie - at Victoria Park, on January 8, 2025.
SV United went on to win the encounter, 4-2.
However, by virtue of Article 55 of the Code and Article 9.5 of the Regulations, SV United FC forfeited the match because they played Quashie, an ineligible player.
Reports are that Quashie is a registered player for Andover New Street FC in the Wessex League in England.
Consequent to the infraction by SV United, Avenues United FC was declared the winner of that match and awarded 3 points and 3 goals.
In accordance to the SVGFF rules governing protests, clubs must put in writing their concern within 48 hours of the incident along with a payment of
days.
$100, to the secretariat of the SVGFF.
When both conditions are met, the Disciplinary Committee of the SVGFF is activated and the club’s protest heard.
BESCO,- Pastures though is in eighth place on goal differential, while Campdonia,- Chelsea has played nine matches as opposed to BESCOPastures’ ten.
SV United, despite showing improvements, languishes at the bottom on 2 points from their ten matches.
Clubs play each other twice, meaning each club has 8 matches in the round robin league format.
At stake is $30 000 for the winner, while second place gets $24,000, third place - $18,000 and fourth place - $12,000.
The remaining six clubs get sums ranging downwards from $4,000 to $1,500, for fifth to tenth place.
The ninth and tenth place clubs at the completion of the league, will be demoted to Tier Two (First Division) of the next edition of the National Club Championships.
Members of the SVG Cycling Union working with students of the St. Vincent Grammar School.
On Trac Hope International seems determined to return to their champions
NL Predators have their ‘eyed’ in taking the championship trophy out of town.
Kimron Quashie was the focus of the Avenues United protest following their loss to SV United.
Sports V
Titbits and snippets
THIRD ROUNDmatches in the West Indies championship is scheduled to end tomorrow Saturday 15. If you are a Windward Island supporter, you will be stretching your imagination to think that the game will go into a fourth day. That was the story last week when fans few as they were, expected the Windwards to put up resistance against Trinidad and Tobago.
It was a hapless display by the Windwards and they performed worst in he second innings. Early on Friday afternoon, it was curtains at the Arnos Bale Playing field. That time it was the Khary Pierre affair.
Even though it was a day/night match, Windwards folded so drastically that the lights were not needed. So persons who planned a lime t the Arnos Vale Playing watching cricket under lights had to be content with other arrangements.
Something must have gone wrong with the Windwards. As it is with in a vacuum. You have to be within certain circles to know what is happening. That air of secrecy is perhaps owing to the infiltration of scammers and other undesirables and the extent of betting within the arena.
It’s right and proper to protect your interests. In times of uncertainty and indeed acts of suspicion by cricketers and non-cricketers alike, the has to be some level of transparency whereby relevant information should be open to anyone.
However, some of the things happen under the label of sports have the makings of intrigue equivalent to some secret sect.
Defending champion Guyana showed depth and resilience overcoming a spirited Combined Campuses and Colleges outfit in securing their second straight win.
Leewards took care of Jamaica, and Barbados disposed of West Indies Academy.
This week sees Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions in action. That always produces some steam. The Leeward Island Hurricane and Trinidad and Tobago clash will go a long way in deciding who leads.
Guyana and Wes Indies Academy were locked in battle and no one knows how things unfold.
Individuals have their story. One persons who blanked out everything last week Saturday in the Neil Williams T/20 tournament is Desron Maloney.
He performed for Windward Islands previously, and showed potential. An innings of 86 at Arnos Vale against Barbados distinguished his credentials. Whatever the circumstances, Maloney is not part of the current Windwards squad.
Given the poor standard of Windwards’ batting, Maloney must have opted for his own exclusion. He made use of the pare time provided by the Windwards to heap some attention on himself with a beaver trick against Victors Two at Arnos Vale Two last Saturday.
His figures of 5 for 5 engineered collapse which saw the opponents collapse for 83. Police took the target in style winning by ten wickets.
Maloney’s performance could rank in any T/20 league. Four of his dismissals were clean bowled, and the other a dolly catch o short midwicket. I wonder if he was sending a message.
Neil Williams T20 Round Up
Editor’s Note: We recognize that we might have misrepresented the details of the match between Carlos Veira Rivals and FLOW Rivals in our report on the Neil Williams T20 Competition in last week’s edition. We will correct this as soon as the correct details are made available.
Notwithstanding last week’s glitch, we can report that there were relatively easy victories for FLOW Radcliffe, Guardian General Saints, Police Two and Keegan’s Bequia Eleven, in last weekend round of matches in the Neil Williams T20 Cricket Competition.
FLOW Radcliffe beat Police One by 98 runs, scoring 193 for 5 in 19 overs and bowling out Police One for 95 in 14 overs. Darren Greaves struck 102 (10x4, 6x6) for Radcliffe and Salvan Browne had 59 for the lawmen, who had no
answer for Radcliffe’s Rasheed Frederick with 5 for 13.
Saints eased to a 54-—run win over CJ Julius Anthony MSDA Northern Stars. Saints laboured to 145 for 5 in 20 over but were good enough in the field to dismiss Northern Stars for 91 in 13 overs. Romel Currency top scored for Saints with 5i not out and Keon Gaston did likewise for Northern Stars with 56 not out. Geron Wylie had 4 for 15 bowling for Saints.
Police One suffered another defeat when they were beaten by their counterparts, Police Two by a thumping 8 wickets. Scores:
Police One 109 from 15; Police Two 111 for 2 from11 overs.
Police Two Rickford Walker had a good all round match with a score of 49 not out and 2 wickets for 12 runs.
CWI Regional 4-Day Round-up
Jason Mohammed, 102, hit a second century in as many matches, for Trinidad Red Force.
Tevin Imlach continued his form for Guyana with innings scores of 126 and 80.
Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, Barbados Pride, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, and Guyana Harpy Eagles recorded contrasting victories, in the second round of the CWI Regional 4-day cricket championship last weekend.
T&T Red Force dispensed with the Windward Volcanoes by an innings and 176 runs at Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Kavem Hodge, 126, accounted for the most part for Windwards first innings of 166 but there was no standout performer in their second innings. The Windwards had no answer for Khary Pierre who returned respective innings figures of 4 for 17 and 8 for 27 (match haul 12 for 44). T&T amassed Red Force 456 in their single innings, Cephas Cooper 117, Jason Mohammed 103, Yanic Cariah 9 and Amir Jangoo 84, doping most of the plundering of the Volcanoes bowlers.
At the Kingston Oval, Barbados Pride rolled over the West Indies Academy (WIA) by an innings and 54 runs. The Pride blasted the young WIA bowler to reach 581 for 9 declared, Kraigg Brathwaite 212 and Jonathan Drakes 117 doing most of the damage. Johann Layne and Joshua Bishop toiled for figures of 4 for 85 and 4 for 137 respectively. WIA registered scores of 239 and 283, with good knocks coming from Rivaldo Clarke 78 and Joshua Bishop 57, in their first innings and Carlon Bowen-Tuckett a maiden century of 103 not out and Teddy Bishop 58. Pride’s leading bowlers were Chaim Holder 6 for 70 in the first and Jomal Warrican 6 for 104 in the second innings. Leeward Islands Hurricanes bead Jamaica Scorpions by 5 wickets at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Scores: Hurricanes 335 - Jahmar Hamilton 93, Karima Gore 76, Marquino Mindley 4 for 44, and 156 for 5; Jewel Andrew 62 not out.
Keegan’s Bequia rolled over Smashers by 37 runs in a low-scoring and overs reduced match. Bequia put up 105 for 6 from in their 15 overs, to which Smashers replied with 68 all out in 10 overs.
Cosmus Hackshaw, 23, top scored for Bequia and Terron Campbell, 3 for 14, and Olando Lavia, 3 for 13, won it for them with the ball.
Scorpions 320John Campbell 126, Brad Barnes 63, Jeremiah Louis 3 for 44, 170 - John Campbell 53, Oshane Thomas 3 for 44, Rahkeem Cornwall 3 for 54.
T&T’s Khary Pierre became the first bowler to ever follow a seven-wicket haul with eight-wicket haul in consecutive matches in regional four-day cricket.
Guyana Harpy Eagles defeated Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) by 8 wickets at Guyana National Stadium. Scores: Harpy Eagles 343 - Tevin Imlach 126 not out, Ronaldo Alimohamed 77, Akeem Jordan 4 for 68; 168 for 2 - Imlach 80, Matthew Nandu 69 not out. CCC 375 - Kyle Corbin 102, Johann Jeremiah 84, Shaqkere Paris 56; and 132 - Damel Evelyn 48, Parris 39, Veerasammy Permaul 4 for 41.
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
Darren Greaves ensured victory got FLOW Radcliffe with a knock of 102.
Homicide count reaches five
From Backpage
Charles was pronounced dead at the scene by the District Medical Officer. His death marked the 5th homicide for the year.
By way of a reminded, the first three homicides for the year were:
The first was Albert Lorenzo Lewis, a 63-year-old farmer and welder of Hopewell, who was found motionless on the porch of his home,
with a wound to the right side of his face, on January 02.
The second was Andrew “Gringo” Williams who was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) after he was shot in Glen, on January 02. He succumbed to his injuries on the same day.
The third homicide victim was Kenville Morris of Byera. Morris succumbed to multiple chop wounds after an incident on January 19.
AI REAL ESTATE
HOMICIDE COUNT REACHES FIVE
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
recorded its fourth and fifth homicide for the year, between Thursday 6th and Sunday 8th February, 2025.
In what was described as “a real scary thing,” by a student who was in the vicinity when the shooting started, 23-year-old Carl Quow was shot to death in Edinboro at approximately 3:00pm, on Thursday 6th February, 2025.
Said to have recently taken up residence in Edinboro, Quow, originally from Chauncey, received his first bullet as he was sitting on a railing. Hurt, he was said to have been strong enough to run towards the nearby residence of the Roman Catholic Bishop, but his assailants pursued him.
People in the area said that they heard a barrage of bullets coming from under a mango tree. They concluded that the gunmen finished their job as Quow fell under the tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the District Medical Officer, making him homicide #4 for the year.
During the incident, a student of the JP Eustace Secondary School also sustained an injury and was treated at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) and discharged.
Quow was well known to law enforcement officers and the Courts here.
In June, 2022 he and two other men were arrested and charged for illegal possession of guns and ammunition and possession of an imitation gun. Quow and one of the men were
granted bail when they appeared before the Serious Offences Court.
One month later, he was arrested again after he put a gun to the side of a 16-year-old secondary school student. For that offence, he was found guilty and sentenced to one year and five months in prison.
Georgetown murder
Following closely on the heels of Quow’s death, the Royal SVG Police Force (RSVGPF) was called into launching an investigation into another a fatal shooting, this time one that occurred in Mt. Bentick, Georgetown, during the early hours of Sunday, February 8, 2025.
A police release said that on responding to reports of a shooting, police officers, on arrival at the scene, “discovered the lifeless body of 29year-old Mokra Charles, a laborer of Georgetown, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.”
The police release also said that according to initial reports, “an unidentified masked assailant opened fire on Charles before fleeing the scene.”
Continued on Page 31.
ST. LUCIA, SVG SHARE SUPER6 JACKPOT
by DAYLE DA SILVA
ROALD EDWARDS, the latest winner of the Super 6 Jackpot, said very little when he claimed his winnings on February 11.
That was one week after the big draw on February 4 when Edwards, a resident of Evesham, and one other individual from St. Lucia, came out as joint winners of the EC$958,000 jackpot.
His winning payout amounted to EC$479,000.
According to Edwards, he purchased the ticket one day before the jackpot drawing, explaining that he just ‘randomly’ put some numbers together.
The winning combination was 1, 8,
10, 12, 25 and 26, and Edwards said that he was not aware initially that he had in fact come up with the correct combination of digits.
He told the gathering at the NLA headquarters in Paul’s Avenue, that he overheard villagers talking about someone in SVG buying a ticket in the village.
And when he checked the following day, February 6, he realised that he was in fact a lucky jackpot winners.
“I didn’t really feel too excited,” Edwards said, though he admitted to be initially shocked.
When asked about immediate plans, Edwards said that there were not any at this point, save and except that he would be looking to pay off some outstanding debts.
Super6 jackpot winner Roald Edwards and NLA’s Product Development Officer Anthony Dennie at last Tuesday presentation ceremony.
Carl Quow – homicide #4
Morka Charles – homicide #5