Roderick Jones, Chester King’s local lawyer said he had received confirmation that his client was not wanted on a murder charge in his homeland- St. Lucia.
by HAYDN HUGGINS
ST. LUCIAN NATIONALChester King has never been arrested for any murder or wanted for any murder in St. Lucia, contrary to information from the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF), and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.
King, a 38-year-old florist of Denry, St. Lucia, was recently held in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on four immigration charges. He pleaded not guilty to the charges when he
Registration woes Page 32
WHO’S FOOLING WHO?
appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on February 12, and Prosecutor Shamrock Pierre objected to bail. Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie upheld the objection, and ordered that King be remanded until February 24 for bail review.
However, when the matter was recalled on February 24, King could not be produced, and the Court heard that he was removed from the state, much to the amazement of Magistrate McKenzie as the Court had never made a removal order for King.
Police and PM on same page
The RSVGPF’s release, dated March 7, 2025, stated, in part, that, “During the time of his (King’s) detention, the RSVGPF received credible information from the Royal St. Lucia Police Force that Mr. King was wanted in that
country (St. Lucia) in connection to several heinous murders.
“A warrant for the King, issued by the High Court in St. Lucia was dispatched to the authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In an effort to facilitate the suspect’s appearance before the High Court in St. Lucia, Mr. King was repatriated back to St. Lucia”.
The Prime Minister commenting on the issue on NBC’s Morning Cup programme on March 5, 2025, stated in part, “The police acted quickly because that person (King) was needed, was to be questioned in relation to two or three murders, and as I understand, he has been charged for one, at least one”.
Continued on Page 3.
Chester King’s removal from St. Vincent raises certain pertinent questions which remain unanswered.
Canouan Sea Port:
Getting a much needed facelift
WHILE CANOUAN REMAINSin
the recovery phase following the devastating passage of hurricane Beryl on July 1st 2024, progress on the rebuilding of the main port of entry by sea is well underway, thanks to the input from Hedge Fund mogul Ian Wace, who owns a property on Canouan.
The new look is a blend of the old and the new, including the use of recycled materials reinforced by modern methods of construction.
Chatting with the reconstruction foreman Danut “Danny” Dumitrescu, he noted that he has a team of 20 skilled workers from Romania, six of whom are working in Union Island, while the rest are employed on several government and public projects in Canouan. He is tasked with turning the area of the main sea port into a unique blend of the old and modern.
The modern speaks to the new ferry terminal where passengers can await the ferries in relative comfort, and to the surrounding areas that will be converted into a shopping plaza where souvenirs and gourmet foods, among other offerings, will be available to both visitors and public.
Danny said that his team
works every day during the week for 3 months, go home for a two-week vacation and then return. The work ethic of the Romanians in his crew is exemplary and construction techniques on par with local and international building codes.
Some of the damaged galvanize collected following Beryl was sent to Trinidad for recycling, while a compression machine was used to squeeze the remaining galvanize into metal blocks which are being used as the foundation for a pond in the proposed shopping plaza area.
Brand new sidewalk now leads to and from the main wharf.
Below: Recycled galvanize and utility poles were used in the construction of the shops.
the issue of making the main wharf bigger to accommodate at least two cargo ferries simultaneously and to provide proper berthing for the fast ferry.
‘The Vincentian’ will keep the public updated with developments post Beryl in the Southern Grenadines.
Contributed by: Donald De Riggs
To remind locals what storms can do, and to demonstrate the ability to pick up the pieces that are left to rebuild a better life, the shops in the proposed plaza are being modelled out of recycled 20-foot containers, downed utility poles and salvaged galvanize to produce a truly creative, impressive building to house a variety of shops.
According to Danny, his team also worked on the reconstruction of the administrative building, airport and school, and was involved in the general cleanup of the island right after Beryl. His team on Union Island is also on a similar mission.
In soliciting feedback from some of the Canouan residents about progress and reconstruction of their homes, many were thankful for the input from Ian Wace. They especially welcomed the newly paved driveway to the main wharf in Canouan. Before it was paved, it was dusty and uneven and when it rained was muddy and
inconvenient for pedestrians. Now, wheelchairs can glide easily on/off the cargo ferries.
Residents also raised
undertaking
Administration/Revenue office was rebuilt by the Ian Wace construction team.
The Central Market Square has taken on a whole new look.
Construction foreman Danut “Danny” Dumitrescu (right) and local contractor Gabriel Leonard, play pivotal roles in the reconstruction
in Canouan.
V News 3
GovÊt acquires Balliceaux:
No touristic development
here at home, to develop Balliceaux as a cultural, historic, memorial site to keep as part of our patrimony.”
The next step in the process involves discussions with the titled owners of the island, i.e. the Linley family, who in earlier times had quoted on the open market, an asking figure of US$30m for the islands.
In January 2024, Prime Minister Gonsalves said he had asked the Chief Surveyor to have a valuation done for the privately owned island of some 323 acres, in preparation for an announcement of official acquisition on Heroes Day, March 14, of that year.
Balliceaux will be acquired from the Linley family whose claim to ownership of the islands is said to date back to Thomas Franklyn Linley who became proprietor of Balliceaux and Battawaya in 1899.
BALLICEAUX ISLANDhas
officially become part of the nation’s patrimony. This was declared by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves in a Ministerial Statement in parliament on March 6.
The Prime Minister’s indication came after the stipulated second declaration was published on March 5 in the Government Gazette, the first declaration having been done so on February 25, clearing the way for
government’s acquisition of the island.
‘Those who show proper title to it, we will of course in pursuance of the constitution and the law, (will) give reasonable compensation within a reasonable time,” Dr. Gonsalves said in his Ministerial Statement.
Going forward
And he has given the assurance that Balliceaux will
not develop into a touristic site.
Instead, the Government will set in motion a process of full consultation for the development of Balliceaux.
The consultation, Dr. Gonslaves noted, “will include the Garifuna in the Diaspora and
No questioning on murder
But King’s local lawyer Roderick Jones, told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday that according to the information he received this week from King himself and his lawyer in St. Lucia, Stanley Felix, King was never questioned in St. Lucia in relation to any murder, and he was never arrested on any murder charge. Jones said that he also received information from the Crown Prosecution Service in St. Lucia, confirming that
He followed that up in March of 2024 assuring, “My government will acquire Balliceaux in the interest of its historical importance to this country.”
Historical significance
Balliceaux holds deep historical and cultural importance for the Garifuna people as it serves as a sacred site, representing the death and rebirth of their culture after their exile from Saint Vincent and their subsequent journey to Roatan.
Five thousand Garifuna were banished to Balliceaux, after their defeat at the hands of the British.
The majority of them died on the island. The remainder was transported to Roatan from where many took refuge on mainland Honduras which was later partitioned into Honduras (Spanish) and Belize where most Garifuna reside today. (DD)
Every year on 14 March, members of the Garifuna community make a pilgrimage to Balliceaux to honour and celebrate their ancestors.
King has one charge for attempted murder, dating back to 2014, and he was charged with controlled drugs and gun-related offenses in 2023. These charges are pending and for which he was on bail.
However, when King was recently taken back to St. Lucia, in the custody of the police from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, he was returned to police custody in St. Lucia because he had breached his bail conditions.
Jones also told this publication he received information from King, through his lawyer in St. Lucia, that King was taken by local police from the Prisons in SVG on February 21, 2025 and taken to the local Coast Guard base at Calliaqua, from where he was transported by the local Coast Guard to St. Lucia. He was then handed over to the authorities in that country.
Police beating
On February 25, just after an inquiry held by Magistrate McKenzie to determine who authorized King’s removal from SVG was discontinued, Jones told THE VINCENTIAN that King had told him that he was severely beaten by local police when he was arrested here on immigration charges.
The lawyer disclosed to the publication on Wednesday that he had written to the Supt. of Prisons and the administrator at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital requesting medical reports on King, but is yet to receive a response from either institutions.
To date, pertinent questions surrounding King’s removal from the state are still unknown.
Strong rum thief jailed
by HAYDN HUGGINS
A 29-YEAR-OLD ICE-BOX VENDOR who told the Court he stole six bottles of strong rum because someone stole all his drinks, was jailed on Tuesday.
Delroy Williams of Cane Hall/Arnos Vale was sentenced to eight months in prison for stealing six bottles of Sunset Strong Rum, valued $221.20, the property of C.K. Greaves and Company Limited.
Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie handed down the penalty at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court after Williams pleaded guilty to the charge. He was unrepresented.
According to the facts, presented by Court Clerk
Constable Lynosia Constantine, around 6 p.m. on March 17, 2025, the security guard, David Smith, on duty at Sunrise Supermarket, Arnos Vale, was standing next to the liquor section when he saw the defendant as he approached that section. The defendant took three bottles of Sunset Strong Rum from the shelf, and placed them into a bag he was carrying. He then asked the security guard if there was a “special” on the three bottles of strong rum. The guard told him that he didn’t know the prices.
Williams, the defendant, then picked up three more bottles of strong rum, place them in the same bag, and made a loop around the
Thieves target tourist couple in Bequia
TWO YOUNG men, who pleaded guilty on Tuesday to stealing from a German couple while they were on a beach in Bequia, will know their fate next Monday.
Antonio Baptiste and Selborne John of Greiggs and Lowmans Windward respectively appeared before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie at the Kingstown Magistrate Court.
They admitted to stealing one black sai logo bag valued at EC$50, one pacsafe pouch valued at EC$100, one black iPhone 15pro valued at EC2,800, one silver iPhone 11pro valued at EC$2,800, and EC$2,400 in cash, amounting to a total value of EC$8,150, the property of Monika Husgen of Germany.
The facts, presented by Court Clerk Constable Lynosia Constantine, showed that around 2 p.m. on March 17, 2025, a Germany couple, Mr. Stephen Husgen and wife, went to Princess Margaret Beach where they were relaxing on the sand on beach towels. The female placed the black sai logo bag containing their cellular phones and EC$2,400 in cash just above her head.
Two pounds of marijuana might not be, in reality, represent a ‘small smoke’.
A ROSE HALLfarmer was this week fined $300 forthwith for possession of a portion of marijuana which he described as a ‘small smoke’.
supermarket.
The guard observed Williams’ suspicious behaviour and followed him around the store. He saw Williams cash two ping pong snacks at the cashier in the cosmetics area while having the bag containing the bottled drinks at his feet.
Williams later walked past the cashiers and was heading for the exit when the guard inquired as to whether he had paid for the drinks.
One of the cashiers informed him that Williams did not pay, prompting the guard to approach Williams and inform him of his observations.
Williams denied having any bottled drinks in his possession, but the guard pointed
out the six bottles of strong rum in the bag to the defendant and took him, along with the bag containing the drinks, back into the supermarket.
The guard informed his supervisor of his observations, and Williams was asked to pay for the drinks. He, however, did not have sufficient money and the matter was reported at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) following which, he was taken into custody and charged.
When Magistrate McKenzie asked Williams why she should not send him to prison, he said, “I had an ice-box of drinks and somebody took out all my drinks, so
Her husband left for a nearby beach bar to purchase rum punch drinks, leaving her there with the bag containing the items. She turned to fix her towel and took her eyes off the bag. When she turned back, she discovered that the bag was missing. She notified her husband, on his return, and they brought their loss to the attention of others who were on the beach.
They then reported the matter to the police and with the assistance of members of the public who could identify them, the perpetrators were apprehended, They were taken into custody and escorted to the Port Elizabeth Police Station.
The bag and its contents were later recovered in good condition and the money was found on the persons of the perpetrators.
When cautioned and interviewed, they both admitted to the offense.
Both men, who were unrepresented, were remanded until next Monday when they will be sentenced.
Farmer fined for, ‘small smoke’
Appearing at the Serious Offenses Court on Monday, Colvyn Robertson, who was unrepresented, pleaded guilty to possession of 946 grams (just over two pounds) of marijuana with intent to supply.
Robertson told the Court he was employed at the Agricultural Department, but on weekends he worked on a marijuana farm as a side job, and sometimes he would take a small portion to smoke.
Robertson said that he would go to a girlfriend’s home where he would ‘chill out’ and ‘take a smoke’.
Robertson was arrested at Edinboro around 7:15 p.m. on March 13 while police were conducting a stop and search exercise of vehicles. He was a passenger in the back seat of a minibus which was stopped by the police during the exercise, and a search of the knapsack he was carrying revealed the marijuana. When cautioned, he said, “Officer is a small smoke”.
When questioned by the police as to whether he was the holder of a medical cannabis license, he said, “No”.
Robertson paid the fine.
I was stressed out”.
Williams, who told the Court he is the father of a 2-year-old, added that “I made a little mistake”.
But the Magistrate responded, “Little mistake, that is a big mistake”.
McKenzie told him, “You didn’t take a box of milk for the baby, not even a pound of milk for the baby. You took, not one, not two, not three. You took six bottles”.
When the Magistrate asked him what he was going to do with the drinks, he said, “I was going to sell them to get money to maintain my kid”.
Asked whether he had made a report to the police that somebody had stolen his drinks, Williams said “No”.
of violence.
Another gun seized: Shooting in Diamond
AS THE POLICE step up their operations to curb the spread of illegal firearms across St. Vincent and the Grenadines, officers from the Narcotics Unit arrested and charged Shemar King, a 24-year-old labourer from Edinboro.
A police release said that on Saturday, 16th March 2025, officers on patrol in Lowmans Windward intercepted a vehicle in which King was the occupant. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a 9mm Taurus pistol, an illegal firearm, and eight round of 9 mm ammunition.
King,
be arrested and charged with illegal possession of a firearm.
King was formally charged with possession of both the gun and ammunition and taken before the Serious Offences Court on March 17, 2025.
He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of $12,000 with one surety, and he was ordered to report to the Central Police Station every Monday until the matter is resolved.
Interestingly, on the same day King was arrested, a resident of Glen was rushed to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital after being shot in Diamond.
According to police sources, the victim is in stable condition.
The police also assured that they “..are actively investigating the shooting, with efforts focused on understanding the events that led to this unfortunate incident.” and added, “The shooting reflects the reality of gun violence which continues to prompt discussions about safety and security on the island.”
One resident in Diamond told THE VINCENTIAN, that when she was heading home from work, she noted the presence of police in the area leading to the landfill. “They were searching people bags and claiming that they are looking for gunman,” said the resident, adding, “Up to now, me na know who get shoot.”
Notwithstanding the latest shooting, the RSVGPF assured the general public that it remains steadfast in its efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms and enhance public safety.
Williams had previous convictions for stealing a bottle of Hennessy, handling stolen goods, and offenses
St. Vincent Sunset Strong Rum is popular even among persons of ill-intent.
Princess Margaret Beach is known to be one of the safer beaches in SVG.
Sherman
the latest to
Sandals supports the MCMH
THE PAEDIATRIC DEPARTMENTat the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) was the recipient of critical medical equipment valued at a little over £100,000 and provided for by funds raised through the successful staging of the Sandals Foundation Island Challenge in October 2024.
The donation included two incubators, one
infant warmer, one ultrasound machine with a paediatric echocardiography probe, three SP02 monitors, and syringe pumps. Dr. Mishka Duncan, paediatrician at the MCMH, said the equipment “will make an immediate change in our ability to care for infants requiring specialized treatment. The tools provided will improve how we manage critical cases, allowing us to deliver high-quality,
timely care to the most vulnerable members of our community.”
The paediatric department at the MCMH manages neonates and children up to 15 years old, on an inpatient and outpatient basis. Annually, there are approximately 600700 children admitted annually to the paediatric department, 140 babies to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
“It’s all about ensuring that families have access to life-saving care when they need it most. The right medical equipment can mean the difference between uncertainty and hope, between struggle and survival. At the Sandals Foundation, we believe that investing in healthcare is investing in life itself, strengthening the very foundation of a country’s future.” Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation said. She added, “We are incredibly proud to support the dedicated team at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital with the tools they need to deliver specialized care to vulnerable infants. This is what true Caribbean connection looks like, coming together to uplift communities, strengthen healthcare systems, and create lasting change for generations to come.”
The Sandals Foundation Island Challenge brought together over 30 athletes from the UK and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, who completed a grueling four-day journey of running and kayaking
across the islands, to raise funds for the initiative.
Thanks to the dedication and the generous support of local and UK sponsors and partners, including the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment, the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority, Team Athletics SVG, and a team from Unique Vacations UK Ltd., an affiliate of the worldwide sales and marketing representatives for Sandals Resorts, over £100,000 was raised to enhance paediatric healthcare services in SVG. (Source: Sandals Resorts SVG, Public Relations)
(Photos Courtesy Sandals Resort, SVG)
The new infant warmer at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital donated to help create a stable environment for newborns needing specialized care.
Two newly donated incubators stand ready at the Paediatric Department of Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Akousa Horne-Cupid, of the Paediatric Department of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, utilizing the ultrasound machine with a paediatric echocardiography probe to provide specialized care for an infant.
Representatives from the MoHWE, SVGTA, MCMH including staff from the Paediatric Department, join volunteers and administrative staff from Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for a group photo outside the hospital following the special handover event.
Republic Bank/CEDA to help SMEs „THRIVE!‰
REPUBLIC BANK WRITES: “Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of economies across the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, but access to finance and export opportunities remains a challenge.
Mindful of this constraint, Republic Bank and the Caribbean Export Development Agency (Caribbean Export), with cofunding from the European Union via the 3rd Regional Private Sector Development Programme, have embarked on a collaborative capacity-building initiative to position small businesses for expanded success. The Republic BankCaribbean Export “Thrive: Unlocking Finance and Export Potential for SMEs” programme, a virtual finance and export
Dr.
Damie Sinanan, Executive Director, Caribbean Export Development Agency.
development training initiative, will commence in April 2025 to benefit five hundred (500) SMEs.”
According to a release from the Bank, its “Caribbean Export Thrive” programme, Thrive, will provide 500 small businesses across Anguilla, Barbados, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago with access to relevant and dynamic expert training designed to help them scale, innovate, and compete globally. Through online learning, live group sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities, the programme focuses on building resilience, improving financial literacy, and unlocking new market potential–key ingredients for sustainable business growth.
The programme will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, Business Capacity Building 1.0, up to 500 entrepreneurs will receive expert training to enhance their financial and export readiness. From this group, the top 50 participants will advance to the second phase–Access 2 Finance Accelerator–a fully funded, six-month intensive training programme. While the value of phase one training is USD $156.00 per participant, a nominal commitment fee of USD $60.00 will be charged. This fee will be fully refunded upon successful completion of Business Capacity Building 1.0.
Nigel Baptiste, Group President & Chief Executive Officer, Republic Financial Holdings Limited.
The Republic Bank—Caribbean Export Thrive programme aligns with the Bank’s Power to Make A Difference corporate social responsibility programme given its aim to bolster entrepreneurship and accelerate the development of communities and countries.
“We recognise the incredible potential of SMEs and the barriers they face in accessing finance and
expanding into new markets. Through this initiative, we are committed to bridging that gap, providing the knowledge and resources necessary for businesses to not just survive, but thrive,” said Nigel Baptiste, Group President and Chief Executive Officer of Republic Financial Holdings Limited.
Dr. Damie Sinanan, Executive Director of Caribbean Export, emphasised the programme’s role in strengthening business competitiveness. “It is an immense pleasure to partner with Republic Bank, one of the most successful indigenous financial institutions in the Caribbean, to empower small and medium enterprises across the region. Through Thrive, we are not just offering training–we are equipping businesses with the financial acumen, market intelligence, and strategic networks needed to scale and succeed.” (Source: Republic Bank)
V
That EC$22 million ECCB scandal
THERE HAS BEENa shift of focus of blame for approval of a EC$22 million residence for the Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).
This is according to at least one media house, The New Today of Grenada, the birthplace of the ECCB Governor, Timothy Antoine.
Who to blame
Blame has now shifted, it appears, to the Board of Directors of the St. Kitts-based ECCB. for the fiasco surrounding the construction of the EC$22 million residence for the Governor.
According to our understanding, the ECCB Board of Directors is tasked with oversight of the operations of the Bank.
This sweeping term of reference hands the Directors the responsibility of approving just about everything happening in the bank, including approving the cost and possible overruns in constructing the new residence for the Governor.
As of March 31, 2024, as per the Bank’s Annual report, the members of the Board of Directors were: Timothy Antoine (Governor and Chairman), Dr. Valda Henry (Deputy Governor), Kathleen Rogers (Anguilla), Whitfield Harris (Antigua and Barbuda), Denise Edwards (Dominica), Mike Sylvester (Grenada), John Skerrit (Montserrat), Hilary Hazel (St Kitts/Nevis) Francis Fontelle (St Lucia) and Edmond Jackson (St Vincent and the Grenadines).
We understand further that each Director is expected to keep his Minister of Finance up to date as a far as decisions the Board makes and developments at the Bank are concerned.
The ongoing saga of the new residence for the Governor was ignited by the leak of a letter from the Prime Minister of St Vincent Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in which he was critical of Governor Timothy Antoine and the building of a luxurious “palace” to serve as his home, an undertaking
Gonsalves described as an “absolute scandal.”
The saga entered a new phase, so to speak, when the New Today reported that a Grenadian with knowledge of the ECCB affairs told that publication that he was aware of the issue involving the premier financial institution in the Eastern Caribbean with significant cost overruns about two years ago.
The New Today quoted that source as saying, ““There were initial concerns over the cost of the project when it started. The issue was whether or not they had to build a new residence or refurbish the one that (the late Sir Dwight) Venner lived in.”
Even with one of their fellow countrymen at the helm of the ECCB, Grenadians are pointing fingers at the ECCB, accusing it of “massive mismanagement.”
The fallout of the construction of the new residence for the ECCB Governor will not go anytime soon, it appears.
(Partial Source: The New Today)
The $22M “Palace” being built in St Kitts to house the Governor of the ECCB.
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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
Guyana-Venezuela dispute: Not going away soon
THE GUYANA–VENEZUELA territorial controversy is not going away. It will remain an ongoing one between the two nations over the resourced-rich Essequibo region, and no number of (private or otherwise) visits by our Prime Minister to Venezuela, is going to make a difference since both parties are hell bent on holding their ground.
Already, President Irfaan Ali says that he will not be meeting with Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro given Caracas’s “continuous and recent disregard for his country’s sovereignty and the flagrant breach of the Argyle Agreement,” not to mention Venezuela’s plan to elect a Governor in a territory that does not belong to it.
Guyana is our CARICOM brother. The people of CARICOM are a belligerent people who respect the rule of law, and will die to protect their rightful sovereignty.
All of this we recognize even as Venezuela continues to threaten and provoke the peace of this region, yes, the peace of the region.
How can we ever feel comfortable, tell ourselves we are our brother’s keeper and sit back and allow another occurrence of what took place on March 01, 2025, when a Venezuelan military vessel sailed like it was nobody’s business, into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), close to oil production-related equipment, and, on top that top, (Venezuela) had the gall to declare the area “disputed international waters”. Was Venezuela, by this action, not threatening the fragile peace that exists between it and Guyana?
The Government of Guyana reached out to its CARICOM colleague nations and the international community, and both blocs have condemned Venezuela and in the process, hinted at the consequences that could ensue if the aggressive behaviour continues.
The last thing we want for the region is an uptick in aggression and retaliation by one party or the other, that could well encourage, if the truth be told, an upscale military USA presence in the region. That is a “no no” and all must be done within CARICOM to have Guyana not encourage such a response by the USA.
Comfortingly, there is indication that any US military build-up in Guyana is unlikely given that Guyana has responded to Venezuela’s
Acquiring an island
aggressive behavior since the Argyle Declaration, by opting to manage the situation with diplomatic aplomb, as referenced by its outreach to CARICOM and the international community.
And it is also heartening to note that regionally, CARICOM has stood in Guyana’s corner, reiterating that nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This is a good sign on the part of CARICOM of which we seldom speak well. This stance — condemnation of Venezuela — demonstrates the region’s stance in favour of peace and the rule of law.
But the challenges remain real and present. That is why the international community must bring its influence to bear on Venezuela to respect the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that is tasked with adjudicating on the historical border dispute between the two South American oil-rich countries, and to desist from any acts of provocation.
And if it means that continued acts of aggression by Venezuela will be met by further isolation and sanctions, then so be it.
And not to be left out of the loop, CARICOM must keep on the agenda the agreements of the Argyle Declaration which it was foremost in spearheading.
Maybe it is because the Argyle Declaration was signed in his backyard why Prime Minister Gonsalves feels obligated to ensure that ‘peace reigns’ in accordance with that Declaration, and not merely because he has long embraced the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela as one of his closest allies and vice versa.
So, in summary, it is irrefutable that Guyana remains committed to peace but is steadfast about its territorial integrity, and is assertive though diplomatic about how it expresses this.
CARICOM must commit to an unequivocal position to condemn and resist any effort, by military intervention or decrees, to derail the process towards an ICJ judgement.
The world is watching, and Venezuela should know that its aggression will not go unpunished. In the meantime, as we lock arms with our CARICOM partner Guyana, let us join with them in reiterating the mantra: “Not ah Blade of Grass. Essequibo is We Own.”
ABOUT A YEAR AGO, I heard the Prime Minister (PM) promise to acquire the island of Balliceaux. Like many Vincentians, I felt a sense of pride and optimism. At that time, it seemed like he was ready to buy the island from its current owners, and the only hurdle appeared to be agreeing on a price. I thought to myself, “We can figure that out.” We knew the family’s asking price. And as naturalist and philosopher Henry Thoreau once said, “The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.” So, we already know the price the Garifuna (our people) paid. Now, it is just for us to assess the price (lives) we will pay today for Balliceaux again.
I must say, I was worried when I noticed over the last two years that no money was included in the budget to buy the island. I kept telling myself there was still time to plan for it. I must admit, at one point, I felt it was all talk and no action. The next thing I heard was that the island was officially added to our list of government-owned properties.
I have some concerns that I believe merit attention. Recently, I came across an article suggesting that there may be complexities regarding the ownership chain of title, as mentioned by the PM. He indicated that this could lead to a potentially lengthy and intricate process. Additionally, I noticed at least one other colonist raising the possibility that considering the historical challenges faced by the rights of the Garifuna, we might reconsider an obligation to pay. While I appreciate these discussions, I believe the Linley family’s ownership of this island has appeared clear and well-established throughout my adult life.
Once again, I am glad we, the people, now possess Balliceaux. We still await more information beyond the “historical importance” of the tragic events from centuries ago as the reason for the purchase. We need to understand this purchase before the government uses taxpayer money. We want to know what the plans are for the land and how it will benefit our community. How will the land be developed, and who will cover those costs? Will the public be able to access it? What kind of events could take place there, and who will be responsible for managing its
development?
I think we can all identify with the emotional connection to the island. Let’s assume that is the noble idea that caused us to procure this sacred land. How much are we willing to pay for it? After all, this is the same administration that had a problem creating special recognition for the exiled Garifuna people; some say it was simply because the opposition proposed it. Yes, we were unwilling to put any energy into a collective effort to come up with a way to acknowledge and recognize their connection to SVG.
Disappointingly, the NDP is relatively silent on this issue. We have not heard from them about their ideas. Is theirs a passive support for the acquisition? Where is the principal position on fair compensation for all private land acquired for public use? While I support protecting the land on Balliceaux, I think other ways exist to achieve that object.
For example, if the government wanted to protect the land’s historical context, it could have created a Historical overlay planned district, thus restricting what could be built on it or how it could be developed. A historical overlay can be equally protective. The overlay district could have designated a portion of the land to be set aside for a moment or a sacred memorial site to acknowledge the genocide. The rest of the island could also have a list of restricted uses. For example, we could have designated what developers could build on the remaining land. All this could be accomplished without spending public funds on acquisition, or at least a minimal amount. Absent any such designation today, with the land in the government’s hands and no deed restrictions, this government or any other government in the future could sell the land for the development of a casino or whatever some may consider a less-thanwholesome use.
I am uneasy about acquiring land without any land use restrictions. Let’s do the right thing: pay the current owners fair market value for the land, and attach the appropriate deed restrictions.
Horatio.
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
National Heroes Day Balliceaux and the Garifuna Empire
NATIONALHeroes Day is a day of great significance. It is a time to honour the brave souls who fought for justice, freedom, and the dignity of their people. Among these fearless warriors stands Joseph Chatoyer, a man on a mission to rid his native land of oppression, exploitation, and injustice. He was not one to go with the flow—his purpose was to change the tide.
Chatoyer did not merely speak in soothing rhetoric; he took up arms in the battle for justice, freedom, and equality. He did not wait for the oppressors to grant him liberation–he seized it. Men like Chatoyer are rare; they appear once in a lifetime. They do not cower in the face of adversity but rather
stare death in the eye, unflinching and unyielding. For such men, life is a battlefield of pain, sorrow, triumph, and victory–understood only by those who recognize the price of freedom.
As I reflect on this great national hero, I cannot help but ask: If Chatoyer were alive today, would he remain silent in the face of injustice?
* Would he take bribes from corrupt officials to suppress his voice?
* Would he compromise his values for a lofty position in a land plagued by corruption?
* Would he turn a blind eye to the farmers of Richmond, treated as if they were insignificant?
* Would he challenge the hypocrisy of those in power, calling out their deceit?
* Would his voice be a relentless force–bold, uncompromising, and unwavering in the pursuit of justice?
* Would he be at odds with the government, standing firmly on the side of the oppressed?
* Would he fight against the vaccine mandates imposed by the state, or would he, too, become another passive observer, resigned to the status quo?
If Chatoyer were here today, I believe he would be an instigator, an agitator, a mastermind of resistance. His presence would shake
Negotiate with the U.S
YOU SEE THIS THING we call “sovereignty” that we like to bandy about when it suits us, well it not going to suit us if we want to stand up to Trump.
Trump seems bent on his “rampage” to “Make America Great Again”, and the way I see it is we must be (xxxx) foolish to think we can punch above our weight class
and take on this Goliath. We have to remember that we are David in this ‘fight’ and our “slingshot” in real life is no match against this giant, as jokey as he might sound, who is capable of ‘mashing” us to death.
We have to “suck salt” and find ways and means to negotiate with the Trump administration.
We can’t, under this moon and stars, go “toe to toe” with the mighty US. It is nothing but foolishness to think that we can be filled with God’s Grace as David was against Goliath in the bible story.
the very foundation of those who seek to suppress the weak. He would not remain silent while people’s rights were trampled upon. He would stand where he has always stood–on the side of justice, on the side of the people.
On National Heroes Day, let us remember Chatoyer not just as a figure of the past but as a symbol of courage, defiance, and unrelenting resistance against oppression. Let us not simply praise his legacy - let us embody it.
I know, Mr. Editor, I will attract the whip of many for what I have opined but can you blame me in the circumstance? Charles, Edinboro.
Rising with our women
ANOTHERInternational
Women’s Day has come and gone but the challenges that our
women face will remain.
Too many of our women continue to suffer in silence and live lives
in isolation. It hurts me when I witness so many of my female colleagues who succumb to despair, on the verge of suicide as they endure the violent hands of their male companions.
It haunts me to think that maybe I am as much to blame for this continued belittling of our women. I ask myself, and you should also: Could I have been their beacon of hope?
Sometimes all it takes
is a listening ear or a word of encouragement to reignite the flicker of hope within those women who find themselves locked in worlds of despair. To those women who continue to wallow in such state, all I can urge is that you keep striving and believing for you are not alone. One day, we will rise together.
Sandra, W.
WE ARE GETTINGcloser to the return of our Garifuna Empire. And we want to make clear that our national heroes (some unknown) were resilient in their military defence of the Garifuna Government against the British.
Our political leaders had a good political football match with our Garifuna colleagues. Yes, Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace promoted “honorary citizenship” while Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves warned, “they will take away your land and jobs”. The latter is very insulting and the Garifuna people need an apology from PM Gonsalves for that statement.
Under pressure from the Garifuna movements home and abroad, Balliceaux is now acquired. But the question still remains: “From whom did those claiming ownership purchase the island? Is it our (state) land for which we are now prepared to pay? That needs to be clear.
We, however, thank you PM Gonsalves for spearheading the move towards acquisition of Balliceaux. But remember, you are not Garifuna but you head the Garifuna Empire. You are there just as the British. The scripture says: “You have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton. You have nourished your hearts (you and your family and friends), as in a day of slaughter, you have condemned and killed the just” (James 5:56).
We thank you PM Gonsalves for your time and over time as a leader of the Land of the Blessed, which you took by force from the late Sir James Mitchell. You stated in the build-up to the 2015 general elections: “These are the last general elections that I am offering myself as the political leader of the ULP.” You are now leading your party into a second general election since you made that announcement.
However, we welcome your idea of coming together to formulate a comprehensive plan for Balliceaux’s development. The planning has already started and here are a few suggestions to guide the process:
* A museum to house all artefacts in the hands of the British that belong to the Garifuna Empire;
* A solemn house;
* A marine dock, floating or stationary;
* Protection of wildlife, including marine life;
* Coast Guard security;
* All participants in the discussion to visit the island prior to agreeing to a final plan;
* The British to finance the project as part of their reparations obligations.
And by the way, we want to remind PM Gonsalves that his work won’t be complete if he does not see to the introduction of a Garifuna language class in our schools.
Once more, much thanks to PM Gonsalves as he comes to the end of his political journey.
Christian Democrat.
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
* Has the Chief Surveyor submitted a valuation of Balliceaux as the PM said he ordered?
* If he has, is the valuation anywhere near the US$30m that the owners were asking for on the open market?
* How many motor vehicles here have italic number plates? Will the traffic department ever get around to apprehending all those who commit
this infraction?
* What guarantees are there that fleas would not return at those temporary school facilities on the runway of the old E.T. Joshua airport? Are we forgetting that dogs are not the only hosts for these fleas?
* Are there any laws on the books that speak to cruelty against animals?
Carden A. Michael
The highest importance of quality political leadership
IN EVERYnation-state, political leadership is of the highest importance to its functioning now and in the future.
In vulnerable, small-island developing states buffeted by enormous external challenges, amidst a limitation of resources for development, quality political leadership is at a premium. In developed countries, possessed of abundant resources and wellestablished enduring systems of governance, errors of commission and omission by their political leaders are usually swiftly corrected or their impacts markedly lessened; their margins of error are comparatively large. However, in smallisland developing countries, the margins for errors by a head of State or government are quite small. Thus, the choice of a Prime Minister in a small-island developing state like SVG is of the utmost importance.
In SVG, the nature and character of its political economy, its possibilities and limitations, its strengths and weaknesses, and the constitutional and political preeminence of the Prime Minister compel the electorate to be mature and wise in making the choice as to the occupant of the premier political office in the land. To be sure, the political leader has to function within, and be supported by, an array of constitutional and political institutions, staffed by competent, committed persons; and the leader of the country is constrained in his/her actions by a bundle of formal and informal mechanisms of a constitutional, political, social, and economic nature, and the overall limitations of the country itself. But, given all the extant and prospective circumstances, in the matter of governance of the country, its two wings of government and politics, the political leader is first among equals, and perhaps more.
The choice before us
Within the next few months, certainly before the end of February 2026, the people of SVG have central questions of paramount importance to answer:
(i) Do we replace the tried and tested, battle-hardened visionary, transformative leader of acknowledged high quality and energy, Ralph Gonsalves, who has led SVG, by way of the Unity Labour Party, to extraordinary progress over the last 24 years of exceptional external challenges?
(ii) Does the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) possess any leader, including the current Leader of the Opposition, Lorraine Friday, who can do better than Comrade Ralph, in the even more demanding circumstances ahead of us?
(iii) Have Friday, St. Clair Leacock, Daniel Cummings, and the other front-line NDP leaders not been abysmally poor in their efforts in their current leadership roles and thus are disqualified in their quest for promotion?
It is well-established that the committed political partisans in the ULP and NDP vote party first. But the partisan base alone can never assure electoral victory. The wider electorate looks towards leadership first; then the team on offer generally; and thereafter, the person who is standing in the particular constituency. Rightly, political leadership is of the highest importance!
In considering political leadership, wise and reasonable persons who constitute the vast majority of the electorate do NOT pay much attention to background noise or sideshows; they stick to the lyrics and melody of the song itself; they hold steadfast to the main event.
In their focus on political leadership, people, wisely and reasonably, emphasise in their first order of consideration, the matters of energy and will, vision and skill. People discount immediately aspirants for leadership who are lazy, slow, temporising, indecisive, weak, fake, shifty, inexperienced, unsure of themselves, imitative, makebelief, uncommitted to uplifting the country, uninspiring, and underwhelming in his/her presence. On the other hand, people embrace leaders who are full of energy, activist, decisive, firm, strong, commanding, experienced, inspiring, sure of
himself/herself, genuine, committed and responsive to people, and exuding of love.
People gather mightily around a leader who has a well-articulated people-centred vision, an accordingly-connected philosophy of advanced social democracy, and a bundle of consequentially-related policies and programmes for the upliftment of the people and the country, rooted in the further advancement of our Caribbean civilisation and its magnificent Vincentian component. An aspirant for political leadership who has no vision or only an inchoate and distorted vision, no credible policies and programmes, will never command the support of the people, save and except those who are tribally connected to a party.
A quality accomplished political leader must possess abundant, optimal many-sided skills for the tasks-at-hand born out of innate qualities; education and training; appropriate socialization; wide ranging experiences in life, living, and work; quality performances in preparatory leadership roles; and a quality record as a leader currently.
The “X” factor in leadership
Energy and will, vision and skill, must be accompanied by the “X” factor to produce a rounded, high-quality leader. What is the “X” factor? Although a great leader must possess the quality of inspiring or putting into followers the need to perform good, quality, and noble deeds, it is far more important, and more difficult, for the leader to draw out of the people goodness, high quality, and nobility which the people may not as yet know that they possess. This “drawing out” taps into “a genius of the people” which contains, among things, “hidden rationalities” (resources and abilities) which have too long been submerged, un-utilised, or ill-utilised. All of tis make-up the “X” factor.
It is evident to all that Comrade Ralph possesses this “X” factor as has been demonstrated, over and over again, in his mobilisation of the “hidden rationalities” resident in the genius of the people. This is evident of the successes, for example, in the education revolution, the housing revolution, the cultural revolution, and the advances of our people as entrepreneurs, and professionals, and skilled workers in all walks of life and production.
Political stability
A quality leader engenders political stability, which connects intimately with economic and social stability. In 27 years as political leader of the ULP and 24 years as Prime Minister, Comrade Ralph has ensured political stability and collective responsibility. There has been little or no disruptive dissonance in either the ULP or the government under Comrade Ralph’s watch. The evidence abounds.
Indeed, in no country in CARICOM has there been as much political stability in party and governance as in the Unity Labour Party, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For example, our Prime Minister has never had to dismiss any member of his Cabinet in 24 years; and no member of his Cabinet has ever resigned. This is an extraordinary accomplishment in political leadership, not merely political management. An entire book can be written on this.
At the same time, we have witnessed transitions of personnel in the party and the government. And all such changes have been effected seamlessly; and all the persons involved have remained true to, and supportive of, the party and government. This, too, is extraordinary over a period of 24 years! Meanwhile, there is confusion and divisiveness in the NDP under Friday’s weak leadership. This is a recipe for disaster in government.
Embracing our Garifuna brothers and sisters
ON FRIDAY, March 14th, 2025, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines came together to celebrate National Heroes Day, a significant occasion for reflection. Reflection of the struggles of the Garifuna and the role that paramount Chief, the Rt. Excellent Joseph Chatoyer played as they fought to fend off the British, who sought to rob them of their rights, their land, their heritage and break their spirit.
The New Democratic Party (NDP) stands steadfast in our commitment to our Garifuna brothers and sisters, honouring a partnership that began during our tenure in office and has since intensified over the past years.
During a Town Hall meeting held at the Friends of Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York on 31st May 2015, the then president of the NDP and Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Arnhim Eustace, declared that an under NDP administration, the Garifuna people will be granted Honorary Citizenship of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
The NDP then extended an invitation to a Garifuna delegation to visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to foster a spirit of cultural exchange and collaboration. During their visit, a series of engaging activities were organized, showcasing the rich heritage and contributions of the Garifuna community. The culmination of those efforts was marked by the signing of a Declaration of Intent between the NDP and the Garifuna delegation, solidifying our commitment to mutual support and co-operation.
The Declaration
The declaration states that: The NDP and the Garifuna delegation hereby agree to deepen the relationship between the Garifuna nation and Yurumein in the following manner:
* Supporting and encouraging exchange programmes in the areas of culture, education, health and sports;
* Developing and disseminating the Garifuna language and culture in Yurumein and in Garifuna populations elsewhere;
* Forging alliances for the purposes of trade in goods and services, with great emphasis being placed on tourism;
* Highlighting the socio-economic and socio-political conditions under which Garifuna exist in Yurumein and elsewhere;
* Strengthening the spiritual bond and re-establishing the historical link between the inhabitants of Yurumein and the Garifuna nation.
The collaborative efforts mentioned will be pursued within the context of the Honorary Citizenship programme.
The NDP and the Garifuna delegation promised to continue collaborative efforts to expedite the process of building closer ties with each other, and realizing the dream of making St. Vincent and the Grenadines the spiritual home of all Garifuna at home and abroad. A draft Charter for the Historic Recognition and Effective Collaboration of the Garifuna People of St Vincent and the Grenadines has been crafted. It had effectively provided the foundation framework upon which the relationship between the Garifuna People and the State of St Vincent and the Grenadines is being built and consolidated. In response to the NDP’s proclamation, Dr. Gonsalves and the ULP had unfortunately resorted to stoking division by invoking unfounded fears that our Garifuna honorary citizens would take our jobs, our lands, and our homes. The rhetoric was not only misleading but also detrimental to the spirit of unity
that our nation should embody. It was disheartening to hear such attempts to deepen our division rather than foster collaboration. We would like to emphasize that the NDP firmly believes in the value of inclusivity and harmony with our Garifuna brothers and sisters and we are committed to strengthening our ties with them upon our return to office.
The Struggle
The once proud and resilient people, defenders of their heritage and sovereignty, found themselves forcibly uprooted from their ancestral lands. The invaders, driven by greed and a desire for domination, first exiled the Garifuna to the desolate shores of Balliceaux, then to the distant island of Roatan, and ultimately to the vastness of Central America. This series of displacements marked a tragic chapter in their history, one that underscored the relentless struggle against oppression and the indomitable spirit of a people determined to reclaim their identity amidst overwhelming adversity.
Our exiled Garifuna family has done remarkably well over the years, transforming adversity into a powerful narrative of resilience and triumph. It is a remarkable story, woven from the threads of survival that have blossomed into a vibrant legacy of growth and prosperity. Despite the historical challenges they faced–when about five thousand Garifuna were sent to Balliceaux, and almost half of them died. They did not only flourish in numbers, now exceeding nine hundred thousand, but have also preserved and celebrated the rich language and cultural heritage. This journey reflects their unwavering spirit and commitment to nurturing their identity, ensuring that the Garifuna legacy endures across generations.
Garifuna history is deeply intertwined with our history, reminding us that the present-day Garifuna community is an essential part of our national identity. We take immense pride in their resilience and cultural contributions, recognizing that the Garifuna people have roots that extend far beyond our shores to nations such as the USA, Belize, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Together, we honor our past and forge a path toward a brighter future, united by our rich traditions and common aspirations.
We reiterate that the NDP is committed to working collaboratively with our Garifuna brothers and sisters when we return to office. We must reconnect with our Garifuna family. This reconnection is pivotal. This relationship will also bring about the healing of wounds among the Garifuna people that were left open since they were separated. Acknowledging the shared struggles and triumphs of the Garifuna people serves as a catalyst for unity and resilience, allowing us to reclaim our heritage and forge a path toward a brighter future. By rekindling these bonds, we can create a vibrant network that celebrates our rich history and ensures the preservation of our cultural identity for generations to come. Our Garifuna brothers and sisters can make a significant contribution to the economic, educational and cultural development of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
When skies are gray
“Gray skies are just clouds passing over.” Duke Ellington (1899-1974) –American jazz pianist and composer.
THERE ARE SOME INDIVIDUALS who would describe the Caribbean as a place where there is sea, sand, and sunshine. It is therefore understandable that some tourists from temperate countries may be disappointed, and express displeasure, when the Caribbean skies are gray. However, gray skies have their value; not only do they provide a welcome shade from the sun’s rays, but they often are accompanied by much needed rain. It is also useful to remember that, even when the skies are gray, the sun still shines. There is reason to hope.
Conversing with individuals who have lived in temperate countries often reveal their feelings of depression when the weather is cold and the skies are gray. The sight of gray skies can induce a feeling of melancholy. However, gray skies usher in a promise of renewal. In the realm of nature, they provide advance notice of rains that will nourish the earth and revitalize life. It provides a valuable reminder of the cycles of life, jolting us to reflect on the fact that endings give rise to new beginnings, and that a seemingly undesirable situation can give rise to new growth and untold blessings.
Gray skies can induce numberless emotions and perceptions, often ushering in moments of meditation and introspection. In their own special way, they can invite and sustain conscious as well as subliminal thoughts. Thoughts that beckon us beyond the mere meteorological phenomenon; they provide valuable insights into life’s varied shades and hues of experience. They can remind the conscious and progressive minds to avoid being daunted by the dark circumstances that seem to deflate and dismantle hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Amidst life’s varied challenges, hurts, and disappointments, there is still reason to hope and to be thankful. The old chorus “Count Your Blessings” remind us that even amidst life’s tempests and our losses there is value in counting our blessings. In such situations there is value in focusing on what we still have left rather than brooding over what we have lost.
Several of the poems written by the 18th and 19th Century English poets depicted scenes of that could easily usher readers into feelings of melancholy. William Cowper (1731-1800), for example, appeared to have mastered the art of providing vivid descriptions of gray skies even as he contrasted these with the brooding landscapes, amid slowmoving brooks. Cowper was exposed to several tragedies that resulted in bouts of emotional and mental distress during his early adulthood. However, those traumatic experiences seemed to have awakened his imagination and prompted him to capture moments of “gray skies” and “iridescent clouds” that invited introspection and interpretation.
William Blake (1757-1827), in some of his works, used gray skies to convey a sense of the melancholy or oppressive atmosphere of the human condition. John Keats (1795-1821) also wrote about gray skies (e.g., in his Ode to Autumn, described the somber moods that periodically marked the passage of time). William Wordsworth (1770-1821) also wrote extensively about nature, and the sky played a key role in his poetry. In several of his works, gray skies represented a melancholic or reflective mood; linking somber reflection on nature and humanity. Such skillful
writings and vivid descriptions invite us to delve deeper into these literary works and invite us to look beneath the surface and to realize that the dark clouds have their value — they signal the likely arrival of rain. Similarly, the metaphoric dark skies in our lives, while they may trigger concerns and encourage feelings of despondency, have the potential to bring many unexpected blessings.
Sir Derek Walcott (1930-2017), the St. Lucian poet and playwright who received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1992, often evoked the sky and the sea to symbolize the complexities of Caribbean identity and history. In works like Omeros, dark skies are used to reflect the weight of colonialism, the struggle for freedom, and the connection to African heritage. In many of his poems, the beauty and ominousness of the skies often portrayed deep emotional and cultural weight.
Sir V.S. Naipaul (1932-2018), the Trinidadian-born British writer of fiction and non-fiction, received a knighthood in Britain in 1990 and the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2001. In his works like The Mystic Masseur and A House for Mr. Biswas, Naipaul occasionally used the sky to represent oppressive forces of colonial rule and the challenges of postcolonial identity. While not always described as “gray” or “dark”, the sky often portrayed an ominous or heavy tone, symbolizing the struggles of individuals consumed or hindered by the web of cultural and societal conflict.
Many of the scenes described by these accomplished poets and writers can also be used as a useful allegory in which the gray skies represent the intricacies of our human existence — mirroring the times when fears and disappointments appear but reminding us that these are often the forerunners of blessings. These are the realities of life. We will not always have blue skies or experience glorious sunshine. There will be times when storms appear, the winds are strong and frightening, and the seas are rough and threatening. However, even amidst such treacherous encounters we know that these will eventually pass. In the realm of our varied life experiences, we realize that there are times when emotions will fleer up even in the closest of relationships in the home, neighbourhood, and workplace. Such emotional storms may seem to be quite threatening. Their initial appearance could be quite frightening. However, we realize that our perceptions may shift with the passing of time. This is especially so when the lines of communication remain intact or are speedily repaired when broken or inadequate. It is truly amazing what regular and clear communication can do … even in the most traumatic of situations.
Based on the foregoing, we appreciate that gray skies are more than just a meteorological spectacle; they invite readers, listeners, and viewers to pause, reflect, and to look beyond life’s transient challenges, hurts, detours, and disappointments, to anticipate renewal and refocusing for a more positive outcome.
Empty rhetoric and dangerous words
IF WE EVER NEEDED PROOF that PM Gonsalves’ words are nothing more than rhetorical flourish with often dangerous implications and likely serious consequences, look no further than his views on Balliceaux and the state’s complicity in the illegal removal of Chester King, the St Lucian national allegedly brutally beaten by local police.
In 2015, former opposition leader Arnhim Eustate announced that his party, once elected to office, would offer honourary citizenship to our Vincentian forebears against whom the British colonialists committed genocide and then exiled after the assassination of national hero Joseph Chatoyer in 1795.
It’s a horrific yet heroic story every Vincentian citizen should learn. Between 1763 and 1795, our people waged an epic battle against landgrabbing and slave-loving white colonists to protect our nation’s sovereignty. After the British subdued the resistance and conquered our homeland, they swiftly moved to expel over 5000 Garifuna and Kalinago patriots.
Firstly, they were taken to Balliceaux where, in less than a year, over 2,500 of them perished from starvation and brutality. Those who lived through the brutality, torture and humiliation were shipped off to Roatan, an island just off Honduras. Today, in a redemptive story of survival and resilience, over 600,000 of our Garifuna brothers and sisters live in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and the USA.
When Eustace, in an honourable bow to history and principle, made the announcement about citizenship, PM Gonsalves was beside himself with rage. In an unforgettable and unforgivable outburst, Gonsalves, pandering to the ignorance of our people, declared, ‘I do not support that [citizenship}. When you give them honorary citizenship, are they coming out from Belize, Nicaragua, Honduras from Guatemala, they are coming out of those countries for jobs in St. Vincent? …. Are they coming for your houses? … But what are they going to have? Just a piece of paper saying, ‘I declare you to be an honorary citizen?’
You giving them a passport? Because for sure, you have more Garifuna who are not Vincentians outside than the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole…. Do they want to give honorary citizens the right to vote now? You going give Garifuna the right to vote, but Vincentians who overseas don’t have the right to vote?
You going put Garifuna above them who ain’t born in St. Vincent and who are not descended directly?’
In attempting to lampoon Eustace’s idea, Gonsalves conveniently forgot that he, too, was smeared for planning a communist grab of people’s houses and land. He also disregarded that the St Vincent Reparations Committee, which he established in August 2013, had as one of its guiding principles the right of return of our exiled Garifuna brothers and sisters.
How does he square his ethnic fearmongering with his latest declaration that our persistent calls for reparatory justice for the genocide committed against our Indigenous people are anchored in the colonial killing of almost 2,500 Garifuna people on Balliceaux? Gonsalves’ declarations are not grounded in principle. They represent a sham intended to exploit rather than edify?
While the acquisition of Balliceaux is to be applauded, we disagree with the ULP’s conclusion that ‘the ULP has continually viewed our history and culture as ennobling tools to uplift the Vincentian people and further develop our sense of self.’ You cannot speak out of both sides of your mouth and expect
respect from serious people.
Chester King and the Rule of Law
‘Never before had there been so much talk about ‘law and justice being close to the people;’ Never before had law and justice been so remote, so deeply estranged from the moral instincts of the people, never before so exclusively subservient to the interest of the ruling clique.’ Ella LingensReiner, Prisoners of Fear.
The official explanation about the illegal removal of the St Lucian man allegedly beaten by local police continues to unravel. Both PM Gonsalves and the police high command have been caught in lies that are unfitting of senior officials in the state administration. PM Gonsalves, who has an archipelago of ministerial responsibilities, including legal affairs and national security, owes the nation an explanation for the lying tale regarding Chester King.
Both he and Commissioner Enville Williams must confess to their lies or be marked as unfit to lead our security apparatus. Both men have assaulted our constitution and the cherished legal principles of due process and the rule of law. Their actions are akin to misbehaviour in public office. They must be brought to heel.
In offering a rationale for defying a court order by illegally removing Mr. King from the prison and spiriting him out of St Vincent, Gonsalves claimed that the act ‘is not a capital offence nor a ‘main’ event. If we are to remain a country of laws, nothing is trifling about a constitutional violation. Defying a magistrate’s order to detain Mr King and have him return to court is not to be slighted.
Gonsalves is a serial violator of our laws. In 2003, his government blatantly violated a restraining order issued by our Court. PR Campbell secured an order restraining the state from removing American Mark Vaughn from St Vincent. PR got word that the state was about to ship Vaughn out of the state at the request of American authorities. Campbell, in a valiant effort to protect the constitution and his client’s rights, lay down in front of the police vehicle. Gonsalves mocked him for his duty to the law.
It is a major event to have a retired police official improperly sign a production order, which is only signed by magistrates or judges. To claim that St Lucian authorities asked and came for Mr. King when the local coast guard and police officers escorted King to St Lucia is troubling, to say the least.
To justify this wrongdoing, by claiming that Mr. King was wanted in St Lucia for two or three murders and had been charged for at least one is to reinvent the factual record. Even if King was wanted for 100 murders, Gonsalves’ illegal deportation of Mr King remains unconstitutional.
Further to claim as Gonsalves and the police press advisory did that, swift action by the security forces protected Vincentians from a dangerously criminal is contradicted by the facts.
Chester King is not wanted by St Lucian authorities for multiple murders. King is on bail pending trial for an attempted murder charge. The offensive weapon used by Mr. King to commit the offence was a knife and not an illegal or prohibited firearm.
Our country is being ruled over by the whim and fancy of an ageing leader who has long displayed a reckless and wanton disregard for the rule of law, due process and the Constitution.
Too much at stake: Re-elect Terrance Ollivierre
SVG, AT THIS MOMENT,is at an incredibly significant crossroadeither to continue with the current malaise under the ULP or to forge a new path of community empowerment, economic growth and development in an era of transparency under the NDP. After 25 years of autocratic
mismanagement, corruption, nepotism, cronyism, looting, pilfering and failed promises, the Head-Hunter and his gangrened bunch of buccaneers and pirates have lost their way and do not, under any circumstance, deserve another term.
The Vincentian electorate is
at this moment suffering severely from ULP fatigue. Now, the people are disparately looking forward to a change. While the wind of change within the country is with the NDP in this election year cycle, the party should and must continue to make the case to the electorates why it should be elected to office, and therefore it must continue to campaign vigorously and strategically because the almost 80year old Head-Hunter would not go quietly into his sunset.
The Southern Grenadines has always been represented by the New
Democratic Party and should remain under NDP’s control. Its current representative and Union Island resident has followed in the footsteps of Mary Hutchinson, Stephanie Browne and Glenford Stewart before him. He has won every election since 2001 and is now the longest serving opposition MP for the Southern Grenadines. For the past 25 years, he has weathered the political storm under the Head-Hunter’s diatribes and insults aided and abetted by his speaker-cronies of the House.
This Constituency is the smallest within the state but it’s the most challenging of all the constituencies since we are dealing with three separate islands with their respective individual needs and challenges. Case in point, while there has been a secondary school on Union Island that accommodated students from Canouan and Mayreau over the years, Terrance Ollivierre has successfully made the case for the people of Canouan why they needed to have their own secondary school. In order to attend to the needs of the respective islands, Terrance Ollivierre must travel by boat to each of them, which is not the same as driving in an MP’s car from one part of a constituency to another as is the case on mainland St. Vincent. So, the challenge is real with little or no financial resources to meet the needs of the respective islands.
Terrance Ollivierre has been a champion in Parliament for educational development in SVG and he now deserves to be named Minister of Education under a new NDP administration. He has tirelessly advocated for the needs of his constituency in Parliament and in public forum. As an opposition MP there is not a whole lot that any representative can do to tangibly help his/her constituents save and except for his/her advocacy in Parliament. To make matters worse, the Head-hunter has refused to establish within the government bureaucracy the Constituency
Development Fund advocated by the NDP, which would have made funds available to all MPs to assist their constituencies. To ensure that this particular Fund and other beneficial programmes and projects are put in place, it is imperative that the people of the Southern Grenadines and SVG respectively re-elect Terrance Ollivierre and the full slate of NDP candidates.
In some circles of the Southern Grenadines, particularly in Union Island, some disgruntled individuals from both sides of the political divide have been harbouring the view of throwing their support behind a spoiler independent candidate, who, though he was born in Union Island, has lived in the US for more than half his life, now decided to come back and the very first thing he wants to do is to contest the Southern Grenadines seat. He too chose to live on Mainland St. Vincent, and he is not wellknown in the Southern Grenadines. I am not sure his name can appear on the ballot paper because of his US citizenship status.
I say to those folks, “This is simply not the time for any vote splitting; it is just not in your best interest politically to do so; don’t get left behind after the NDP’s victory.” And to him I say, “Abandon your pie-in-the-sky ambitions and throw your full weight behind Terrance Ollivierre now; you are still a relatively young man and your turn would come one day once you have sorted out your US citizenship status.” The people of the Southern Grenadines have no interest in any independentspoiler candidate.
Following 25 years of ULP misrule, there’s now a seismic shift in support among the electorates towards NDP. There are also a lot of lights coming through the end of the tunnel; an NDP victory is in sight! But the party cannot rest on its laurels with complacency. Every rightthinking and conscientious individual must do his/her part to ensure that NDP victory. There is simply too much at stake in this election cycle to make any kind of blunder. So, in these upcoming elections, if your individual objective is to get rid of the ULP then you must cast your vote for Terrance Ollivierre and all the NDP candidates.
Lynx Mas Band presents Riddles
L-R: Deck Of Cards answers to one of the popular Riddles and Clock answers to many different Riddles.
THE LYNX MAS BANDsays it will be all about Riddles for Vincy Mas 2025.
Seven sections, each depicting a common riddle, form the band’s presentation.
Among the sections are Deck of Cards, Clock, Candle, Letter W, A Coat of Paint, De Riddler and A Coin.
The Band is determined to once more make an impression, especially in this the twentieth year since the Lynx Mas Band first entered the national Carnival festivities.
And band leader -
Cornelius “Pete” Thomas, is confident that his Ossie Constance designed production, will maintain the band’s very high standards as in previous years.
“We have been around since 2005, and except for 2011 and 2023, Lynx Mas Band has always been at it, when it comes to making good presentations for Vincy Mas each year and 2025 will be no exception”, Thomas assured.
He pointed to the what-can-be-deemed distinguishing features of his band saying, “We
pride ourselves on neat finishes, sticking to the theme and topics that people can easily relate to”.
In 2024, Lynx presented All Aboard with Carnival Cruise Lines, which saw the band placing: second in the Junior Band of the Year; first in the Uptown Judging; third for Best Use of Colours; second in the King of the Bands Competition; third in the Individual of the Bands segment and fifth in the Band of the Year race.
Raring for 2025 Vincy Mas, the Lynx Mas Band will officially launch its 2025 presentation on March 29, at its location in the Eustace Auto Supplies Building on Lower Bay Street.
Lynx Mas Band won the Band of the Year title in 2019, with its presentation Come Fly With.
Blondie Bird/Friends ready for 2025
REIGNING BAND OF THE YEAR
CHAMPION Blondie Bird and Friends will not be outdone in defence of their title and their quest for an eight title.
Towards this end, the band will be out of the blocks earliest with the launch of its 2025 presentation, entitled ‘Tribute to Carnival Icons’, inclusive of a number of mas designers and mas band leaders.
In their own words, Blondie Bird and Friends said, “This year we celebrate their lives (Icons) and the contributions they brought to Vincy Mas.”
The launch is scheduled for this Saturday, March 22, at the National Insurances Services car park on Upper Back Street.
The presentation will once again feature the designs of ace mas designer Oswald ‘Ossie’ Constance, and the Band is expected, as it has done through the years, to participate in all the mas related competitions.
Blondie Bird and Friends promises to be competitive as they have always been since their entry into the mas arena.
In addition to the coveted Band of the Year title, Blondie Bird and Friends will also defend its King and Queen of the Bands and Individual of the Year titles.
Five for DCOÊs Hall of Fame
Frankie McIntosh
DCO described McIntosh, D.Litt., as “a true giant in the world of Caribbean music.”
It said his “holding an honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of the West Indies reflects his vast accomplishments,” and that he is “celebrated as a musical genius, calypso maestro and a foundational architect of Soca music.
“His innovative arrangements, infectious melodies and profound inspired contributions have left an indelible mark on the Caribbean music scene, solidifying his place as a not only a national but also a regional treasure,” DCO said.
Veronica John
Story and photos by NELSON A. KING US CORRESPONDENT naking@verizon.net
THE BROOKLYN, New York-based Dynamite Cultural Organization (DCO) –parent organization of the Dynamite Calypso Tent of New York – the lone Vincentian calypso tent in North America –says that legendary Caribbean musical arranger Franklyn “Frankie” McIntosh D.Litt will be among five Vincentian “icons” to be inducted, during DCO’s inaugural Cultural Hall of Fame on April 19 at Nazareth Regional High School in Brooklyn.
DCO said on Sunday that McIntosh will be inducted for his role in the performing arts.
The other inductees are Veronica John and Roy “The Dragon” Ralph (both posthumously) for culinary arts and visual arts respectively; the Spiritual Baptist Religion in the heritage and legacy category; and historian Dr. Adrian Fraser for literary arts.
It remembered John as a “culinary visionary”, who founded VeeJays Restaurant in Kingstown, the Vincentian capital.
DCO said John had “profound impact on Vincentian cuisine”, and that VeeJays was “more than just a restauranteur.
“She was a culinary matriarch, who defined the essence of Vincentian hospitality and championed the unique flavors of the nation,” it said. “Her influence on the Vincentian palate and culinary traditions continues to resonate today.”
Spiritual Baptist
DCO characterized the Spiritual Baptist Religion as “a cornerstone of Vincentian history and identity,” which is “recognized for its enduring legacy.
“This seminal institution shaped the social and spiritual fabric of the nation, embodying resilience and unwavering faith in the face of historical persecution,” it said. “Its inclusion highlights the importance of faith and community in the Vincentian narrative.”
Veronica John stands tall as using her culinary skills and from humble beginnings, made a household name of the Vee Jays Restaurant both home and among the Vincentian Diaspora on both sides of the Atlantic.
Roy Ralph
DCO said Ralph was “an iconic mas man and visionary costume designer.
“His revolutionary contributions transformed Vincy Mas, injecting creativity, innovation and awe-inspiring artistry into the annual carnival celebrations,” it said. “He pushed the boundaries of costume design and brought a fresh perspective to traditional mas, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations of mas men and women.”
Dr. Adrian Fraser
Dr. Fraser, DOC said, “a distinguished historian, author and educator, is recognized for his unwavering dedication to preserving and disseminating Vincentian and Caribbean history.
“His extensive research, insightful publications and commitment to education have played a vital role in fostering a deeper understanding of our and the region’s rich cultural heritage, and complex
Dr. Adrian Fraser, renowned Historian is given his place in the Hall of
for his unwavering dedication to preserving and interpreting the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the masses.
historical narratives,” it said.
The selection process
DCO said the selection of the inaugural inductees was “a meticulous and comprehensive process.”
It said nominations were solicited from the Vincentian public, and that “each submission underwent a rigorous vetting and factchecking process by a diverse panel, comprising DCO members and Vincentians residing both in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and across the Diaspora.
“This commitment to inclusivity ensured that the selection panel truly represented the global community of Vincentians, guaranteeing a process free of bias and rooted in genuine merit,” DCO said.
It said the Hall of Fame will recognize excellence across five distinct categories, offering “a comprehensive portrait of the diverse artistic and cultural landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Culinary Arts, Literary Arts, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Heritage & Legacy.
“The inaugural class of inductees represents a
Roy
pantheon of Vincentian luminaries, each a titan in their respective field,” DCO said. “This landmark initiative aims to enshrine the legacies of individuals and institutions that have significantly shaped and enriched Vincentian culture and heritage both within St. Vincent and the Grenadines and across the Diaspora.
“The event promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating the extraordinary contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to preserving, innovating and sharing the vibrant mosaic of Vincentian identity,” it added.
DCO’s public relations officer, Glenroy “Gobells” Phillips, said his organization is “incredibly honored to launch the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Cultural Hall of Fame.
“These inductees embody the very best of Vincentian culture, their contributions enriching our community and the world at large,” he said. “This ceremony is a tribute to their remarkable achievements and enduring legacies, ensuring they receive the recognition they so richly deserve.”
Spiritual Baptists Religion is recognised for its “enduring legacy” and contribution to shaping the spiritual and social “fabric” of Vincentian society.
Franklyn “Frankie” McIntosh D.Litt – inducted into the Performing Arts category the DCO Hall of Fame for his immeasurable impact on the musical landscape of the Caribbean.
“D Dragon” Ralph –recognized as a changemaker/innovator in the carnival masquerade culture.
Fame
YURUMEI
–
The Symphony
(An extract)
If only ….
If only the Abiding will of Mutual respect
Could prevail
Then my children’s Tears would flow But less frequent.
And what — If ….
If only the married Virtues of Treachery and Connivance, would Wither upon the Alter of Honesty
Then my children Cries will be so much
Less painful for Me to endure
And suppose
Just suppose
The brutal consequences Of war And bloodshed, and The mental Anguish of Death and Destruction is Wrought to forge
That spirit of Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Then the envisaged Loss of dignity and Pride inherent in The surrender of One’s Birthright Is something as Illusionary as the Very Shame of losing it Then that loss remains
But a mirage which we May come to refuse to chase
If only
If only the Demise and departure of My beloved children
Signals the fertilizing Of new ground for The germination of A diasporic seed
Then the fruit of The seed of my soul And the fruit of The seed of this Diaspora Shall merge And grow strong … Stronger
More potent than It ever was
If not ….. Then
David
Unsung Vincentian poet Tim Daisy⁄
by MARALYN BALLANTYNE LLB. Hons.
INTERACTING WITH TIMwas easy because one felt appreciated by him. One day, he was telling me about his playwriting, and so young at the time, I could not keep up with his conversation. Suffice it to say, he really did open my eyes quite early, to the literary world as viewed by a Vincentian. Today, half a century onward, rereading Tim’s poems and the notes I made in the 1960’s, I am able to see how he impacted me and gave me a head start in not only poetry, but literature generally. Tim and I had no emotional bond but he was indeed an informal mentor. We shared an inherent love of poetry.
In the Dancing Mind, Toni Morrison writes about the transformative power of reading and writing.
She emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a means of understanding ourselves and the world around us.
Morrison celebrates the freedom and joy that come with engaging deeply with literature, encouraging readers and writers to embrace the act of creation and interpretation as a dance of the mind. Tim was of the same view.
Here is Tim, in a poem he wrote, entitled,
“Do You Read Me”
“You have read my poems But Do you see the world I see Do you see it as I see it With all its decadence and depravity Or
Do you see only its beauty Through myopic eyes of Indifference To man’s inhumanities?
He then goes on to further question, saying “ does your heart bleed for the stranger
whoneeds a friend”………
We see a talented man in an unappreciative Setting; we see Tim, we see the artistes, the creatives who go by undervalued, uncounted.
As we get older, we start reflecting. Sometimes, someone pops into your mind and memories are triggered, vivid scenes from the past.
Interacting with Tim
I was talking to a friend about my walks from Frenches to Beachmont, when visiting Joan and Margaret Benoit, Grenadians who lived in St. Vincent, Marva Hinds, and Frances, my literature teacher, Frances Redhouse, an Englishwoman.
It was at Frances’ that I often bumped into Tim Daisy. And we all talked about poetry and playwriting.
Frances understood that it was important for Vincentians, particularly the young ones, to hear poetry written by a fellow Vincentians. So,she often asked Tim to recite his work. I remember being moved when he read his poem entitled, HAIROUN, MY HOME. It was the first time I heard a poem that celebrated the beauty of St. Vincent’s landscape.
Some of the poems read aloud by Tim were not easy to understand and I always asked him to explain them; he did so in a satisfactory manner.
It occurred to me that if poems were complicated then they would hardly be understood by many people.
(That thought stayed with me, and how pleased I was that day during the publishing of my first book of poems, when the publisher said to me that the poems I wrote were very accessible.)
Tim’s Impact
Cecil Blazer Williams and David ‘Darkie’ Williams , two of St. Vincent’s giants in the arts, can attest to the way Tim continues to mentor even though he has passed on. His was a voice in the wilderness in the 70’s and I was prescient enough to take
heed. There were no Caribbean authors on our book lists at GHS, nor at sixth form, BGS, both of which I attended. Thanks to Tim, I obtained the works of Samuel Selvon and V.S Naipaul, which served as a portal to my adventures and joyful mingling with Caribbean writing.
In 1964, Tim became a foundation member of the Kingstown Literary Society which published “Flambeau”, a periodical.
His poems were published in “Flambeau”. Tim’s 1965 article written in commemoration of our Botanic Gardens here in St. Vincent, on the celebration of its 200 years of existence is regarded as a gem.
A man before his time
AL.T. DAISY, aka Tim, tall, gaunt, lanky, disheveled, his long khaki trousers wrapping around him–an interesting story on the tip of his tongue, passed on at 34 years of age, in 1975.
Tim made sacrifices in forging ahead with his contributions to the cultural development of St. Vincent. Sadly, Tim died unsung, a disillusioned, dejected personality. In his poem, “The Gift of a Palm”, he writes,
“A palm above… Towering…
Vibrant…
And alive
A man below…. Broken…
And dejected.’
In a 1969 poem of love, dedicated to Marguerite, he says,
“Round and round about and about my mind reels foggy with a hopelessness that bedims perception till I know not what now I am.”
In yet another poem, entitled, “My Unknown Love”, Tim writes:
‘Smile me your radiant charm That disperses my clouds of depression.”
The emotional and psychological depth of Tim’s work overwhelms.
Yes I was there
WARIGABAGA
(Butterfly)
Remembering Tim
‘Bitter Sweet’
IN 1964, he became a foundation member of the Kingstown Literary Society which published a periodical “Flambeau”.
Among his literary gems was an article written in commemoration of our Botanic Gardens on the celebration of its 200 years of existence in 1965.
It is now 250 years old and still going strong. But persons like Tim hardly feature in the New Dispensation, in its focus in highlighting the history, life and promise of the Gardens.
As the past Editor of “Flambeau” and a fan of Tim Daisy, I understood the sacrifices which he made in forging ahead with our cultural development which formed part of his “Bitter Harvest”. Tim died unregretted and unsung in 1973, 42, years ago, a disillusioned and dejected personality.
Dr. Kenneth John
He challenged us
Who could ever forget Tim Daisy? Tim was a local, slim built, but with a commanding voice. He taught me History in the First Form and at the time he had not yet attended university. He was a carefree soul, loved by all. He challenged us to be the best that we could be. He would have been a fantastic drama teacher; pity we did not have Theatre Arts on the curriculum.
Oswald Fereira
Forever in our Midst
The St. Martin’s Secondary School
(SMSS) is the only educational institution in St. Vincent and the Grenadines that has established a place for the persons of Tim Daisy in the lives of young Vincentian males as they encounter life’s daily challenges. One of the four Houses into which the enrollment at the SMSS is organized and named in honour of Tim Daisy. Tim’s place as a source of inspiration for the young men of SMSS is as much in recognition of his giant contribution to advancing the culture of his native land, as it is in recognition that he was a Roman Catholic and an itinerant church goer, who challenged his church to be ever present in the lives of the people in a real and tangible manner. Past Student SMSS
The land, the sea, the flowers and the trees And the wonders of the deep blue seas.
Yes, I was there but only to see.
Sun, the Moon, the Stars and their lights Are there to brighten up the darkest night. At the end of each tunnel there is a light. Yes, I was there but only to see. The Hills, and valleys, The rivers And the fishes in the deep blue seas. Yet there is much more I did not see Nevertheless, that is just the way it was meant to be.
Yes, I was there, but only to see.
I took nothing there And I can’t take anything else where Now I shall leave it the way I found it. With all its joys and sorrows, glories and fantasies.
Yes, I was there but only to see.
Winston ‘Barks’ St Hilaire St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2024
While Garinagu Reflected on Struggle in Yurumein And looming Loss of Language Warigabaga Sped gracefully in Warigabaga Child of the Day Awakened from Sleep Avoided the light and Settled Delicately Authoritatively On the DRUM! The Ancestors had come To counsel!
Garinagu break forth From your cocoon! You holders of the Knowledge Let it fly free As Warigabaga!
Nidehenu Your language Is a symbol Of resistance Freedom Identity!
WRITE! That the Youth may read SPEAK! That the Children may hear Sing and Drum That your fire May blaze DANCE Like Warigabaga! For Warigabaga Is change Re-creation From tiny egg Under leaf To fat Caterpillar Tight cocoon Joyous Warigabaga To eggs!
Warigabaga is a coat (of many colours) Versatile Multiplied Hope The Spirit of Garifunaduan Warigabaga is life Awakened Answering the heartbeat Drum beat! Garinagua! Sing and Drum That your fire May blaze Dance the dance Of life Sing and Drum That your fire may blaze Dance! Like Warigabaga!
Nelcia Robinson
ECGC hosts fundraiser for Shafiqua
THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN GROUP OF COMPANIES(ECGC), which has already declared Vincentian Olympian Shafiqua Maloney a Brand Ambassador (Island Sipz) and thrown its financial might in support of her ongoing track and field career, took a bold step towards galvanizing wider, local corporate support for Maloney.
Towards this end, ECGC hosted a fundraising event,
dubbed “An Evening of Inspiration: Fueling Shafiqua Maloney’s Journey to Global Triumph”, at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites at Diamond, on March 8, inviting a wide cross-section of Corporate SVG to make donations or pledge financial support for Maloney’s ultimate quest to medal at the 2028 Olympics.
Olympian Shafiqua Maloney is gifted with an artist’s likeness of her by Finance Minister
Corporate SVG responds
CEO of ECGC Jomo Cato thanked the donors for coming out and reminded them that “when corporate St. Vincent and the Grenadines comes together,” they are powerful.
“This is beyond any of our businesses. This is really about St. Vincent and us recognising the power of our athletes, the power of athletics as a business to drive growth for SVG.” Cato told his colleagues and referenced what athletics has done for brand Jamaica.
“We have an economy on the rise and we have a global star by the name of Shafiqua Maloney on the rise,” Cato posited.
He complimented Coreas for being one of the first companies to come on board in support of Maloney and suggested that had St. Vincent and the Grenadines supported Maloney earlier, she would have been medalled at the Paris Olympics. 2024.
And in explaining what was on offer to corporate St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Cato drew attention to two
tranches of sponsorship$50,000.00 and $75,000.00 — the former allowing branding rights at the OECS level and the latter the opportunity to negotiate global branding rights.
Cato’s appeal attracted on-the-spot donations from 360 Bar and Restaurant, ADs Construction, Carnival Escape, The Kingstown Cooperated Credit Union (KCCU), National Insurance Services (NIS), CWSA, Platinum Sounds, Williams and Williams and Grenadines House.
Government’s response
Fast Fund was none other than Shafiqua Maloney,” Gonsalves said.
Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves commended the business community for coming forward and supporting Maloney.
Maloney responds
He singled out ECGC, and it’s CEO for the work they were doing to support the track star, including the Holiday Inn Express and Suites function, and said, “ It inspired in the government a desire and need to up our game and up our support for athletes.
In so doing, the Finance Minister said the government this year launched the Future Athletes Support and Training (FAST) Fund.
He explained, “The objective is, that for every year, between now and the Olympics in 2028, the government is going to put a minimum of $500,000 towards the support of athletes that we believe have the potential to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Olympics.”
Interestingly, and fittingly so, “the first recipient of support of the
In her response, Maloney was visibly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for her. Given the occasion, she was expressed a special gratitude to ECGC.
“They supported me before, they supported me through my journey, and they are still here with me, so shout out to ECGC and the love they have always showed me,” she said.
She then proceeded to give insight to the challenges she faced and continue to face, not least being able to meet the cost of a physiotherapist to travel with her, and a psychologist and psychiatrist to tend to her mental health state.
And turning directly to her audience, Maloney admitted, “It’s truly an honour to see so many businesses who have come out to support track and field, and it just doesn’t end with me because our children are the future.
“Although I wish that I can run forever sometimes, I know it’s not possible, and so we have to keep this going for the children… . We have so much talent in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ….. think about how many kids are in need of the same support as I do, that can be where I am or even better.”
Shafiqua Maloney is to date this country’s most successful Olympian. She placed fourth in the final of the 800m at the Paris Olympics, 2024. (KH)
Camillo Gonsalves.
Shafiqua Maloney, ECGC Brand Ambassador, received a momento from Jomo Cato, CEO/ECGC.
Protests erupt in Dominica
POLICE FIRED tear gas and rubber bullets at protestors who gathered in Dominica’s capital, Roseau, on Wednesday, as Parliament began debating electoral reform legislation.
Citizens were responding to a call from Opposition Leader Dr. Thomson Fontaine to demand electoral reform. The political leader of the United Workers Party (UWP), had urged Dominicans to “turn out in large numbers today at the Parliament building in Roseau to demand electoral reform, one that the people of Dominica have asked for”.
His statement came during a press conference organised by the Electoral Reform Coalition (ERC) on Tuesday.
The government presented the Electoral Commission Bill 2024, House of Assembly Elections Bill 2024, and Registration of Electors Bill 2024 for their second and third readings in Parliament on Wednesday.
JUST A DAYafter assuming office, Trinidad and Tobago’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Stuart Young, has called for a general election, in a move widely viewed as an effort to secure his own mandate.
Young, who previously served as the country’s Minister of Energy, was
However, the ERC has strongly opposed the move, arguing that any electoral reform must include key provisions such as campaign finance regulations, biometric voter ID cards for voting purposes, and a reregistration process.
Demonstrators gathered near the Parliament building as the bills were being debated. They chanted slogans and called for more comprehensive electoral changes.
However, tensions escalated as stones were thrown at police officers, fights broke out, and tear gas and rubber bullets were fired at the protestors.
The government has defended the proposed bills, arguing that they will strengthen the electoral process. However, opposition leaders and activists remain firm in their stance that further measures are necessary to ensure free and fair elections.
Earlier there were reports from Dominica that in anticipation of mass protest during the parliament sitting, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit had intended to ask the regional Security Services for assistance in “beefing up’ the resources of the local constabulary.
Speaking on national radio the Dominica leader said: “I am saying to the country that I have directed the minister of national security to put the Regional Security System on alert...
anybody who believes that they are going to storm Parliament or create mischief in Dominica, it will not happen.”
He says while persons are allowed to protest, they must do so peacefully.
“Anyone who thinks they can breach the walls of Parliament and disrupt the country’s democratic processes is only bringing trouble upon themselves,” the prime minister stated. (Source: SLOL and Loop News)
New TT PM calls snap election
sworn in as Prime Minister on Monday, March 17, following the resignation of Keith Rowley, who stepped down after nearly a decade in power.
According to an official statement released on Tuesday, Prime Minister Young advised President Christine Kangaloo to dissolve Parliament with effect from midnight on 18 March 2025, in and has declared that the country will go to the polls ion Monday 28th April, 2025.
Young’s unexpected ascension to
office and immediate call for elections have sparked widespread political debate. Analysts suggest that the move aims to secure a fresh mandate from the electorate, allowing him to govern with greater authority rather than merely serving the remainder of Rowley’s term.
The upcoming election will be closely watched domestically and internationally as Trinidad and Tobago faces pressing economic challenges, including fluctuations in global energy markets, inflation concerns, and ongoing public sector reforms.
The resignation of Keith Rowley marks the end of an era for the People’s National Movement (PNM), which has been in power since 2015.
US-Antigua: No travel ban
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDAgovernment officials have issued a formal statement today clarifying that there is no travel ban affecting movement between the United States and the twin-island nation, despite recent media speculation.
“Nationals and legal residents of the United States continue to enjoy visa-free entry when travelling to and from Antigua and Barbuda,” the statement emphasized, directly addressing concerns that emerged last week
when reports surfaced about a potential new US travel restriction system.
According to those reports, several Caribbean nations were categorized into a tiered system of potential travel restrictions. While Cuba was reportedly placed in the most severe “red” tier with a complete entry ban, and Haiti in an “orange” tier with significant restrictions, Antigua and Barbuda was among four Eastern Caribbean nations–including Dominica, St Kitts and
Nevis, and St Lucia–allegedly listed in a “yellow” tier. Countries in this category would reportedly have 60 days to address security protocol concerns. However, the Antiguan government has moved quickly to counter these reports, stating that “no such ban has been imposed, nor has the United States Government indicated that such a measure is under consideration.”
Officials further noted that they maintain open communication channels
with US authorities and have received no advisories suggesting changes to current travel arrangements.
The government statement highlighted the importance of the US-Antigua relationship, noting that American citizens have long favoured the Caribbean destination and “remain warmly welcomed.”
Rowley, who led the country through the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw key developments in the end dismissed criticisms from Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar over Stuart Young’s appointment as Prime Minister following his resignation.
The law is clear as to how the President should proceed to fill the vacancy. It is the person in Parliament from the party that has the majority and that the majority supports as an individual,” he explained.
He said if the opposition objected, the proper course of action was not legal action but a vote of no confidence in the Parliamentary sector, Rowley cited personal reasons for his departure. (Soca News)
Travelers seeking accurate information are encouraged to consult official sources, including the US Department of State’s travel website and the
Government of Antigua and Barbuda’s official online platforms. (Source: Loop News)
Violent protests erupted in Dominica’s Capital, Roseau, over electoral reform bills.
Stuart Young, newly installed Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago is believed to have called elections hoping to win a clear mandate for himself.
The government of Antigua and Barbuda moved quickly to dispel media indication of a travel ban between the USA and that twin island nation.
1000 still in need of housing
CLOSE TO 1000 persons remain inconvenienced or displaced as they await repairs to their houses in Union Island, following the damage inflicted on the housing stock in that Grenadine island by Hurricane Beryl on July 01, 2024.
In the interim, the government is providing accommodation and paying utilities for those families who have been displaced. This undertaking has already cost some EC$3 million for the last six months of 2024.
All of this was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves during his address, March 14, at the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the obelisk, at Dorsetshire Hill.
And in an effort to ensure the earliest possible attention to this outstanding matter, the Government is intensifying the housing rebuilding efforts on that island, which will require an increased number of skilled men and women to do the work.
According to Dr. Gonsalves, who has repeatedly made the appeal for skilled men and women to join the rebuilding effort in the Grenadines, informed “…. for the ordinary worker in Union Island, we pay them $135.00 dollars a day with one meal… the remuneration is much more than here on St. Vincent.”
To assist in the reconstruction on Union Island and the Southern
Grenadines in general, and to ensure a speedy completion of another phase of the rebuilding process, twenty-five (25) members of the Guyana Defence Force - Army Construction Brigade, recently arrived in the country. They are expected to be here for 2-3 months.
Dr. Gonsalves noted that over the past eight (8) months, the Government has rebuilt or repaired close to 3,000 houses across the country, this out of approximately 6,000 houses that have been assessed for repair or reconstruction. This undertaking is estimated to cost EC$450 million, Dr. Gonsalves said.
Destroyed homes, shattered infrastructure on Union Island after Hurricane Beryl.
Taiwan-SVG Strengthen Agricultural Partnership
ON BEHALF of the Government of Republic of China (Taiwan), Ambassador Fiona Huei-chun Fan signed with Hon. Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour, the “Implementation Arrangement for the Agricultural Productivity Recovery and Young Farmers’ Training Project” on 13 March 2025.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture and youth empowerment, further strengthening national resilience and food security.
Over the past four decades, Taiwan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have collaborated extensively in agriculture, investing in food security, job creation, and technological advancements. Strategic projects, such as the Orange Hill Biotechnology Centre, have demonstrated how modern infrastructure and cutting-edge agricultural technology can drive economic growth and enhance livelihoods.
However, challenges remain. The devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024 severely impacted key agricultural areas, jeopardizing food production and the livelihood of many farmers. Additionally, youth unemployment and an ageing agricultural workforce pose significant hurdles to the sector’s long-term sustainability.
In response, Taiwan has pledged US$2.5 million to support agricultural recovery efforts and equip young farmers with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape. This initiative will integrate modern farming techniques, smart agriculture, and vocational training, ensuring that young farmers are well-prepared for the future.
Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar and H.E. Ambassador Fiona Huei-chun Fan proudly display a signed copy of the Young Farmers Training Project related programme.
Key Components of the Young Farmers’ Training Programme:
•Nine training sessions reaching 360 farmers on environmental control cultivation, watersaving techniques, and smart agriculture.
•Advanced training for 75 young farmers, focusing on crop management, post-harvest techniques, and business development.
•Introduction of agricultural technology courses into secondary schools, fostering early exposure to modern farming practices.
•Entrepreneurial training, equipping young farmers with skills in brand management, marketing strategies, and financial planning.
Beyond training, this initiative will transform the Orange Hill Biotechnology Centre into a regional agri-technology hub, expanding its capabilities in seedling preparation, tissue culture, emerging crop trials, composting, food
processing, and smart agricultural applications. Once fully implemented, the center will position itself as a Caribbean Regional Agriculture Training Centre, fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing across the region.
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when nations work together toward a common goal,” said Ambassador Fiona Fan, highlighting Taiwan’s unwavering commitment to food security, climate resilience, and economic prosperity in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Through this initiative, Taiwan and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are paving the way for sustainable agricultural development, youth empowerment, and regional collaboration. As both nations move forward, this project is expected to serve as a model for innovation and cooperation throughout the Caribbean. (Source: Embassy of Taiwan)
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Talk to peers who you trust in order to get sound advice. You could be your own worst enemy if you overreact to something you're told. You will have to be careful not to let others find out about your intentions. Your emotions are fluctuating, so be careful not to say things you'll regret.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
A little volleyball or other outdoor sports should be on your agenda. Try to get out and socialize. This is a turning point. You need to concentrate on solving existing problems.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Let your boss know your goals. You can solidify your relationship if you plan a special evening with your mate. Take time to look at any outdated papers or possible investments. You need some rest.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Equilibrium in your romantic life is likely if you treat your partner well. Your outgoing nature will surprise others this week. You should be able to get involved in an interesting proposition this week. If they don't want to get involved, work by yourself.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Plan your social events carefully. It might be best not to spend your money on luxuries this week. You will be extremely sensual; take precautions and don't take any risks. Sort situations out as best you can. Watch your spending habits.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Talk to your mate about a vacation and discuss the expectations of your relationship. There are ways of making extra cash if you put your mind to it. Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty. You may be able to get some good advice about your personal problems.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
You may find that family members may not be too easy to get along with. Your trendy style and unique way of doing things will entice new acquaintances. Talk about your intentions and confirm that you both feel the same way. You'll feel much better when your slate is clean again.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Advancement can be yours if you are assertive in your approach. Don't fall into the trap. Financial gains can be made. Creative endeavors will give you somewhat of an outlet.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
Compromise may be necessary. You can enjoy social events and meet new potential mates; however, avoid being lavish. Don't rely on others to do your work. Try not to push your philosophies on others.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Your desire for excitement and adventure may be expensive. Put all your energy into moneymaking ventures. Read between the lines when signing contracts. You are best to concentrate on your professional endeavors.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)
Don't be shy; show your abilities! You can expect the fur to fly on the home front. Your competitive nature will enable you to win any contest you enter. Try not to lend or borrow money this week.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal. You could lose money or precious belongings if you aren't careful. You can count on getting a pat on the back for your efforts. You need to get out and have some fun to reduce tension.
ACROSS
1.Spring month (abbr.)
4. Beatnik’s apartment
7. Goldfish, e.g.
10. Implored
12. Sooner than, in poetry
13. “For Pete’s __!”
14. “Oz” dog
15. Plundered 17. Jogs along 19. Frosts
20. Songwriter Berlin et al.
23. Limericks
25. British and Ottoman
30. Thomas __ Edison
31. Singer Davis
32. Edible, tropical tuber
33. Infant’s ring
35. Mates
36. Impart gradually
38. Train noise
41. Will beneficiaries
43. Lead pencil’s filler
46. Moderately cold
48. Bunnies’ prominent features
49. Ump’s relative
50. Price reduction
51. Ambulance worker (abbr.)
52. Krazy __ of Cartoons
53. AES opponent
DOWN
1.Relevant
2. Hidden plan
3. Bring back
4. Cola brand
5. Onassis’s nickname
6. Actress Dolores __ Rio
7. Congressional messenger
8. Stretches out
9. Slugger Williams
11. “Welcome” place
13. Cul-de-__ 16. Speech problem
“Help!”
Do the right thing!
Dear George,
MY COUSINand I are very close. About two weeks ago, I found him on top of a little girl in the village. He begged me not to report stating that he was drunk. I had heard rumors of him doing this sort of thing before, but I always gave him the benefit of the doubt. Now I saw it for myself.
I did not report him for his family sake — he has two children. I just made him promise he won’t do it again. Although I took that line of action, I’m still feeling guilty, and I want to know why.
Trying to do the Right Thing.
Dear Trying to do the Right Thing,
I believe you do know what you
have to do. Cousin or not you have an obligation to that young child who was sexually abused to report the matter. You would be equally culpable if you fail to do so and remember intoxication is not an excuse. This was something you saw. The onus is on you to do the right thing.
That child, the victim, will need urgent medical and psychological attention as well. I hope your conscience will lead you to do what’s right and just, regardless of your cousin having a family of his own.
George.
Avoid the temptation
Dear George,
I’M IN THE GYMand taking care of my fitness. On the other hand, my husband prefers to sit in front of the TV. He is so unfit it is affecting his sex life. He pants like a horse, minutes into sex and I’m always afraid he’s going to have a heart attack. I am not comfortable having sex with him and I long for that old workout which I know I won’t get from him.
Instead, I see men in the gym who can provide that. Should I be made to live like this when the temptation is there to get what I want?
So Unfair.
Dear So Unfair,
Maybe explaining the sexual benefits of proper dieting and exercise might get your husband to join you in the gym. You can also mention while you are at it, that
you’d prefer him to be your gym partner rather than a total stranger from the gym. Encouraging him to join the gym might be more effective if it comes from a third party instead of directly from you, so it may be a good time for both of you to see a marriage counsellor. This is something both of you need to talk through some more.
George.
Do some research
Dear George,
MY WIFE DIDapologise for the short notice when she informed me on the day he was arriving, that she had invited her cousin to stay at our place for his three-week stay.
What I have issues with is I never heard her talk about this cousin who she now claims has been living in the USA since age three. He happens to be around her age. I work nights — twelve-hour shifts, which means this ‘cousin’ will be with her every night for the next three weeks. I am not sure if he is at all her cousin. In fact, I am feeling that I just allowed my wife to have a man in my house to do whatever he wants with her.
I do not believe this
man is her cousin, but I do not want to embarrass her by asking him to find accommodation elsewhere. What do I do?
Caught in a Bind.
Dear Caught in a Bind,
This is a situation where the trust between you two is challenged and care needs to be
taken that you do not inflict unnecessary damage to your relationship.
Surely there must be other relatives around who can confirm the family connection. Do your research so that you can get the reassurance that you think you need. Try not to lose too much sleep over something that’s going to be a nonissue in three weeks.
George.
V
Vincy Heat faces Jamaica tonight
WHEN THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Senior Men’s Football Team
– Vincy Heat enters the Arnos Vale Playing Field turf from 7 pm this evening, March 21, 2025, they will do so with no fear.
Facing the highly ranked and favoured
Jamaicans, Reggae Boyz, in the Concacaf Gold Cup Qualifiers, the Vincentians are confident while admitting it will be no easy walk over.
Exuding that confidence is Head Coach of Vincy Heat- Ezra Hendrickson, when he
Gender Equity Commission celebrates IWD
Youngest participantCahya Bascombe
A WALK from the Sion Hill Playing Field and back, Blood Sugar level test for participants and a demonstration of basic self-defence techniques, formed the package of activities that marked the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Gender Equity Commission’s celebration of International Women’s Day.
Held on March 15 a week after the actual Day (March 8), the day’s activities were deemed successful.
The Walk, the highlight of the afternoon’s activities, sought to bring awareness of the need for physical activities as a
requisite for a healthy life.
Several participants in the Walk were acknowledged accordingly.
Aiden De Freitas was rewarded for being the first youth male to finish the course, with Kenesha Richards, the first youth female.
addressed a Press Conference at La Vue Hotel, on March 12, 2025.
“Jamaica is a team that we do not fear. It is a matter if they are going to counteract what we are going to present them on the pitch”, Hendrickson stated boldly.
Hendrickson, though, is cognizant and aware of the Jamaicans’ strengths, given that their squad boasts players who are full professionals.
“The players are going to play their style, and we are very aware of what their style is and may be
Squash served the most participants at the day’s activities.
Claude Bascombe Jr. won the award for the first adult male to complete the course, with Roseclaire Hall doing likewise among the adult females.
Keith Joseph took the first place for the senior adult male.
Suzanna Ollivierre and
daughter Kayla took the mother and child award, and Claude Bascombe and Cahya Bascombe took the father and child award.
Cayha Bascombe and Keith Joseph were recognised as the youngest and oldest participants, respectively.
The SVG Squash Association won the award for fielding the most participants in the
afternoon’s event and the Leigertwood/Ollivierre combination secured the family participation prize.
Last Saturday’s activities were held under the theme: “Unleash your potential and embrace teamwork today”.
The IWD campaign theme for 2025, was ‘Accelerate Action’ (for gender equality).
with our home game, it may be on us and how we implement our style of play”, Hendrickson said.
Among the players named in the Jamaica team are Leon Bailey, Bobby Reid and Ethan Pinnock, who represents clubs in the English Premier League.
Despite the pedigree of the Jamaicans, who are currently ranked 62nd on Fifa’s table, whilst St. Vincent and the Grenadines is 173rd, Hendrickson believes the enthusiasm and fervor that pervade the atmosphere, and the expected large Vincentian support, augur well for his charges.
“I think we are going to surprise a lot of people. They are supposed to win. The pressure is on them. No one is expecting us to win but us”, the Vincy Heat Head Coach proffered.
Ahead of tonight’s match, Hendrickson has named a 30-member squad, from which he will chose a starting eleven and substitute bench.
The squad includes goal keepers Lemus Christopher, Samir Bristol, Dondre Abraham, and Gavin Davis.
The defenders named are Dimitri Thomas, Tristan Marshall, Najima Burgin, Jazzi Barnum-
Ezra Hendrickson, Head Coach of SVG Senior Men’s Football TeamVincy Heat, exuded confidence when he spoke at the La Vue Hotel ahead of tomorrow’s match against the Reggae Boyz.
Bobb, Brandon John, Nigel Charles, Andrew Johnson, Jamol Yorke and Joseph Barter. Making up the list of midfielders are Kirtney Franklyn, Adden Charles, Kennijha Joseph, Micah Joseph, Diel Spring, Nazir Mc Burnette, Kyle Edwards, Bishon John, J’Quan Glasgow, and Sherwyn Alexander. And, the forwards are Shak Adams, Steven Pierre, Cornelius Stewart, Azhino Solomon, Oalex Anderson, Oryan Velox and Garret Leigertwood. St. Vincent and the Grenadines earned the right to a possible Gold Cup spot, after finishing second to El Salvador in Group A of the Concacaf Nations League in 2024. Following tonight’s first leg, Jamaica hosts St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the famed Sabina Park.
SVG snatches Bilateral Chess title
The victorious SVG team pose with their trophy.
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES defeated their Grenadian counterparts 7-3, to win the second edition of the National Lotteries Authority Chatoyer Bilateral Chess Tournament.
Played at the Conference Room of the Murray Heights Hotel, Mc Kies Hill, March 14 to 16, the Vincentians reversed their fortunes from 2024, when in the inaugural tournament, the Grenadians trumped 3-1. Represented by Ariana Balcombe, Le’ Mar Abbott, Verdant Shetty, Dantes La Primavera, Daria Bologova, Ayannna Gilbert, Jason Veira, Stacy Baptiste- ing, along with Troy Sassine, the Vincentians trumped Rounds Two, Three and Five, whilst Grenada took Round One and Round Four ended in a tie.
Team Manager of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines outfit- Orisia Robinson was the over the moon, as she deemed the overall experience “unforgettable”.
“Each game challenged us to push to the limits, sharpen our skills and grow both individually and as a team. The opportunity to compete against such talented opponents has been truly inspiring and we are grateful for every lesson learned along the way. We leave this event with a deep sense of pride, knowing we gave our best, won and represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines with honour”, Robinson underscored.
Meanwhile, Carlyle Glean Jr., Manager of the Grenada team, announced that the Grenada Chess Federation is offering the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Chess Federation, a reciprocal challenge in February 2026, during that country’s Independence celebrations.
Masters Football takes over Calliaqua
A FRESHstart was made to Masters Football here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, when the inaugural FC Sweaterz Over 40 Masters Tournament opened last
Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the Calliaqua Playing Field.
The family-oriented event, complemented by a picnic setting and other trappings, was lapped up by the many patrons who showed up for the six matches that were convened on opening day.
It was the Largo Height Masters that stole the show, becoming the front runners in Group A, as they registered two wins.
After beating a short-handed Premium Products Richmond Hill, 6-1, Largo Height turned their prowess on Sion Hill, with a 3-1 triumph.
Joseph Ballantyne - South Leeward; Cauldric Sutherland — Hope International, Chester Morgan- Layou and Demeris Daniel- Vintage.
Another six matches are set for this Sunday, March 23, also at the Calliaqua Playing Field.
Business Houses TT gets going
THE2025 National Properties Ltd., Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy Business Houses Tournament officially served off on March 17, at the Calliaqua Town Hall.
Eight business houses, including defending champions Comsport, will take part in the competition which is set to conclude on March 31.
In one of the matches played on the opening say, Metro Life Insurance Services defeated The Department of Civil Aviation 3 games to luv. Mark Charles beat Jelani Cumberbatch 12/10 11/7; Alfonso “Sleepy” Richards made light work of Miclos Swift 11/5 11/7; and Alford Collis got the better of Stanton Gomes 12/10 11/9.
In another match, Cambridge Construction defeated the defending championships Comsport 3 games to luv. Colin Cambridge beat Corbett Crick 1/5 11/9; Junior Byron Cox went pass Davon Cato 11/6 7/11 11/7; and Desbourn Nanton smashed Kenneth Bibby 11/9 11/5.
In the opening day’s third match, RSVG Police Force defeated VINLEC 3 games to 1. Clint DaSouza (Police) beat Rueben Ross (VINLEC) 11/5 11/5; Jeremiah Bascombe (Police) beat Roland Bowman (VINLEC) 11/6 11/5; Raheem Hall (VINLEC) beat Edmond Olliverre Police 11/6 11/5; and Jeremiah Bascombe beat Reuben Ross 11/8 11/2.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Meanwhile, in Group B, South Leeward Unified defeated Layou, 3-1, but Layou rebounded to swish OTR old Boys, 6-nil.
In other Group B results, On Trac Hope International had a 2-0 win over Guardian General Barrouallie with Calliaqua and Vintage ending in a 2-2 draw.
Adjudged Player of the Week was Largo Height’s Emery Bailey, who scored four goals against Richmond Hill and two versus Sion Hill.
This award stemmed from Bailey earning the Player of the Match awards in his team’s two matches played on opening day.
The other Player of the Match recipients were
The format of the tournament shows the first and second places emerging from the preliminaries in both groups, advancing to the semifinals.
The winners of the semifinals meet in the title match, while the losers play for the third and fourth spots.
But it is not done, as the teams not making it to the playoffs, will play for the plate title.
Teams will play for cash prizes, trophies and other awards, as the FC Sweaterz seek to put a new dimension to the sport for those footballers who are advanced in age but still have the will to exhibit their skill.
TT team off to Youth Championship
A SEVEN-MEMBERnational male and female table tennis team has been selected to represent this country in the 2025 Caribbean Youth Table Tennis Championships.
The Championships are scheduled for Sunday 20th to Saturday 26th April, 2025 at the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Gymnasium, Wildey, St. Michael, Barbados.
The players were selected after the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Table Tennis Association held two days of selection matches.
The players will compete in the U15 Boys and Girls, U19 Boys and Girls. Competition will feature singles, doubles and team events.
This event is a qualification event to the Pan Am Youth Championship 2025, which will be held in Rosario, Argentina (August 24-31). It is also the qualifier for the Junior Pan Am Games 2025 to be held in Asuncion, Paraguay (August 923).
Several years have passed since SVG was last represented at this prestigious competition which now awards world ranking points/status.
The SVG contingent to the Caribbean Youth Championship comprises: Coach/ManagerRomano Spencer, Assistant Coach - Mikael Hazelwood; Players,
Inset: Jessica McCarter.
Lamont Gregg - Age 15, Jessica McCarter - Age 17, Macahlie Hazelwood - Age 15, Loukhya Premraj - Age 12, Terence Ashton - Age 15, Oran-Jay Williams - Age 12, Kimoni Shoy - Age 16. The
I.B.A. ALLEN
expected to leave the state yesterday, Thursday 17th and return on Sunday 27th April 2025.
team was
Play between Vintage and Calliaqua Masters.
Emery Bailey, Player of Week One.
The Metro Life Insurance Services team, comprising (from left): Alfonso “Sleepy” Richards, Mark Charles, Cecil Mc Kie and Alford Collis, got off to a smashing start in this year’s Business Houses Table Tennis Tournament.
The SVG TT team at the 2025 Caribbean Youth Championships (from left front): OranJay Williams, Loukhya Premraj, Romano Spencer (Coach/Manager), Macahlie Hazelwood; (from left back): Lamont Gregg, Kimoni Shoy, Terence Ashton.
Sports
Guyana leads CWI
4-Day standing
GUYANA HARPY EAGLESleads the points standing of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) 4-Dat Regional Tournament with 102.6 points, at the end of the 5th round of matches which concluded last weekend. This after Guyana, defending champs, inflicted a crushing 10-wicket trouncing on Windwards Volcanoes, with an entire day remaining. Guyana’s victory was predicated on the bat of another century, 113, from skipper Tevin Imlach, coupled with a whopping 16 wickets between leftarm spinners Gudakesh
Jewel Andrew, 122, recorded his first century at this level.
Motie and Veerasammy Permaul. Scores in the match: Guyana 324 and 28 without loss, Imlach 113 and Kemol Savory 49, leading in the first innings in which Gilon Tyson, Kenneth Dembar and Darel Cyrus had 3 wickets each for 51, 92 and 82 respectively; Windwards 213 and 135, Jeremy Solozono getting 83 in the first innings and Kevem Hodge leading in the second with 40. Motie had match figures of 9/82 and Permaul 7/101.
Tevin Imlach 113 sealed Guyana’s important win.
Justin Greaves, 104, inspired Leewards’ victory.
Jamaica beat West Indies Academy (WIA) by 40 runs. Scores: WIA 211 and 311. Leading the WIA batting were Mbeki Joseph, 54, Carlon Bowen-Tuckett, 57 in the first innings, and Ackeem Auguste 77, BowenYucket 70, Teddy Bishop 57 and Joshua Bishop 49 in the second. Marquino Mindley, match figures of 5/78, led the bowling for Jamaica who had scores of 375 and 191. John Campbell had 101 and Javel Glenn, 68 to lead Jamaica’s first inning batting, with Brandon King, 77, doing likewise in the second. Joshua Bishop, 5/35, Johann Layne 4/50 and Jediah Blades 4/64 were outstanding in Windwards’ turn to bowl.
Leeward Islands beat Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) by 373 runs. Scores: Leeward Islands 425 and 249 for 7, Jewel Andrew
CWI Breakout League is a „GO‰
ALL IS SETfor the 2025 West Indies Breakout League which commences on April 25 and is set to conclude on May 10.
The League will feature 17 matches, all to be played at the prestigious Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad, and will involve teams representing the six territorial boards that comprise Cricket West Indies (CWI): Barbados Pelicans, Guyana Rainforest Rangers, Jamaica Titans, Leeward Islands Thunder, Trinidad & Tobago Legions and the Windward Islands Infernos.
According to the CWI, the West Indies Breakout League is a premier T20 cricket tournament designed to spotlight emerging talent from across the Caribbean.
Towards this end, players eligible to participate must be under 30 years old at the start of the tournament, and must have limited professional experience, defined as having played fewer than 40 List A T20 matches and fewer than
10 International T20s.
As per tournament regulations, each team is allowed to protect seven cricketers, with a maximum of three players aged between 27 and 29. The remaining seven players per squad will be selected during the draft, and they must all be 26 years old or younger. Recognizing their importance to the T20 game, CWI has also mandated that one of the protected seven players must be a leg spinner.
The six franchise teams, each with affiliation to a Caribbean Premier League franchise, have officially confirmed their seven protected players ahead of the upcoming player draft.
The list of protected players reads: Barbados PelicansLeniko Boucher, Kadeem Alleyne, Joshua Bishop, Nyeem Young, Shaqkere Parris, Kevin Wickham, Zishan Motara; Guyana Rainforest Rangers - Nial Smith, Kemol Savory, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Kevin Sinclair, Ashmead Nedd, Kevlon Anderson, Riyad Latiff; Jamaica Titans -
John Campbell’s 101 helped Jamaica to a second win.
turning in scores of 122 and 65, and Justin Greaves 104. Chemad Holder led the CCC bowling with 8/171. CCC had scores of 170/9 declared and 131/9 declared. WI pacer Alzarri Joseph set the CCC wickets asunder with a match haul of 9/54. Kyle Corbin, 58, was the bright spark in the CCC batting.
Trinidad and Tobago beat Barbados by an innings and 56 runs. Scores: Barbados 86, Anderson Phillips 4 for 36, Joshua James 3 for 8 and 121 - Roston Chase 41, Joshua James 3 for 16. Trinidad 2 63, Kamil Pooran 60, Amir Jango 56, Jason Holder 5 for 52, Matthew Forde 3 for 53.
Points standing at the end of 5 rounds: Guyana 102.6, T&T 101, Leeward 79.6, Barbados 78, Jamaica 59.8, Windward 45.8, CCC 26.6 and WIA 25.
Stories: I.B.A. ALLEN
The region will have another T20 Competition that will showcase emerging talent and provide entertainment.
FLOW Radcliffe to defend T20 title
DEFENDINGchampion FLOW Radcliffe will defend their T20 title against Police Two, in the final of this year’s edition of the Neil Williams T20 National Cricket Competition. The final is scheduled for Sunday 23rd March, beginning at 1:30pm at the Sion Hill Playing Field.
Police Two secured their spot in the final after beating FLOW Rivals by 39 runs in the semifinal round. Police Two amassed 210 for 7 from 20 overs, Benniton Stapleton, 73, and Dillon Douglas, 68, being the main contributors. FLOW Rivals seemed to be making a game of it but flattered to deceive and were for 171 for 5 when their 20 overs were completed. Daniel McDonald and Irvin Warrican Jr were the not out batsmen on 91 and 41 respectively. Romario Bibby grabbed 3 for 24. In the other semifinal, FLOW Radcliffe had a whopping 138-run victory over Police One. FLOW Radcliffe made 241 for 3 from 20 overs, Deron Greaves 72 not out. Romano Pierre 70, and Richie Richards 49 not out. Police One finished on 103 for 8 in 12 overs, Vertil Davis 43, Asif Hooper 3 for 23.
FLOW Radcliffe is expected to pull out all the stops in defence of their T20 title.
Sports Sciences Freshers:
Sports V SVGCC Road Relays Champs
SPORTS SCIENCES FRESHERS
emerged champions of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College Road Relay title, in both the male and female categories.
The races were run on Thursday 13th March, beginning at the SVGCC Villa campus, with change overs at Facey Trading, Blue Lagoon, Howard Marine, La Vue Hotel, Technical College, Sekai Auto and finishing at the SVGCC Villa Campus.
In the Male Division, the race was too close to call until five hundred metres from the finish line, following numerous lead changes.
The decisive leg, however, was the anchor leg by Lemor “Prezzy” Williams for Sport Sciences Freshers. Williams received the baton seven hundred meters behind the Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DVTE), overtook him some five hundred metres from the finish line, for a clear path to victory.
L-R: Lemor Williams’ herculean effort ensured victory for the Sports Science Freshers and Zekisha Kelly was pivotal in the Sports Sciences Freshers females’ win.
The winning Sport Sciences Freshers team comprised Davanta Small, Carlos Simmons, Matthew Robinson, Doven Lavia, Kenran Pierre and Williams, and they finished in a time of 50 minutes, 34.56 seconds. DTVE placed second for another year running finishing in 52 minutes, 45.34 seconds; and Sport Sciences Soon Grads maintained the third spot throughout the relay, ending in 55 minutes, 02.34 seconds.
In the Female Division, Sport Sciences ran to victory from start to finish, in a winning time of 1 hour, 10 minutes, 51.23 seconds. The winning Sport Sciences female team included
Nikayla Griffith, Kelisha Bowens, Elizabeth Solomon, Ketonna Campbell, Shafaa Layne and Zekisha Kelly.
The Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies was second in 1 hour, 32 minutes, 25.12 seconds, and DTVE females ended third in 1 hour, 41 minutes, 15.43 seconds.
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s Track and Field season will now move to Heat Day, Friday 21st March, and the Finals on Thursday 27th March, both events to be run off at the Diamond Track and Field Facility.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Runners in Man versus Nature event
THE INAUGURAL MAN VERSUS NATURe, Joseph Chatoyer Extreme Run, took place last Sunday, March 16, 2025, in the North Leeward area.
Traversing hills and valleys from Gordon Yard to the Chateaubelair Playing Field, athletes not only battled the varied terrain but moreso the scorching Sunday
Zichri Hepburn (left) gets his symbollic cheque from Anette Mark of the SVG Tourism Authority.
afternoon heat. Crossing the finish line first in the Elite Category was Zichri Hepburn, who did the course in 43.56. He was followed by Henree K Francois in a time of of 46.44 and Josnel Ashton in 47.03. Taking the Female Category was Zita Vincent, ahead of Annica Westfield and Nyra De Shong in the order. In the 50 and Over segment, Caswin Prince was first to reach the
finish lineh he was followed in second by Roger Young and Lawrence Jobe in third place.
Twenty-nine runners inclusive of expatriates started the race.
The event was organised by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA). Indications are that it will become a feature of the annual programme of activities of the SVGTA.
Zita Vincent
Southern Grenadines voters: „Vote where you reside!‰
From Backpage
“In The Grenadines, we have a challenge because, the officers are on the mainland based on what transpired because of Beryl. But we go down to the constituencies, and we do registration,” said James.
“In Southern Grenadines, we now do it at the Union Island Secondary School, and the officers will go there. We will see when they’re getting down there. In Canouan and Mayreau, we have split the days because the officer who works down there, she is now on the mainland, doesn’t have a home,’’ the Supervisor of Elections disclosed.
“So, there’s an officer who did Canouan, and she’s doing Canouan on Wednesdays and Mayreau on Mondays. But in all constituencies, we will have registration,” assured James, adding that new registrants, must be on Union Island, Mayreau,
Canouan for six consecutive months before they can be registered to vote.
“So, if they came to the mainland and then they go back, (and) they hear that we are coming down and they want registration, it can’t work like that, especially if you’re new. If you’re reregistering, that’s a different case. If you’re new, and you want to register on the island, you must be there six months straight. And it doesn’t make any sense you lie because if you lie on your registration, there is a penalty. If you’re on the mainland and you do six months, you can register in that constituency,” the Elections Supervisor explained.
The next general election in SVG is widely expected to be called by November 2025. The question on the minds of many people is how the situation with respect to registration of new voters in the Sothern Grenadines would affect the (election) outcome in that constituency.
SOUTHERN GRENADINES VOTERS: “VOTE WHERE YOU RESIDE!”
by KENVILLE HORNE
DESPITE HAVINGto ensure the destruction of their homes by Hurricane Beryl on July 1st, 2024, and, as a result, having to relocate to mainland St. Vincent, residents of the South
Grenadines who have not yet been registered to vote in their constituency and have not been residing there for six consecutive months, will have to vote in the constituencies in which they currently reside.
The announcement was made by
the Supervisor of Elections, Dora James, while addressing the challenges surrounding the registering of eligible voters of the South Grenadines, during a recent interview with SVGTV recently.
Continued on Page 31.
Mrs. Dora James, Supervisor of Elections, has advised new voters/registrants in the Southern Grenadines that they must be resident in Union Island, Mayreau and Canouan for six consecutive months before they can be registered to vote.
KPS TAKES INTER-PRIMARY ATHLETICS TITLE
THE KINGSTOWN PREPARATORY SCHOOL
(KPS) are the Champions of the 2025 Edition of the National Lottery Authorities Primary School Athletics Championships. They took the Championship title from defending champions Stephanie Browne Primary of Union Island, to whom they
lost by one points in 2024.
The Championships were staged at the Diamond Track and Field Facility last Wednesday, March 19.
Kingstown Preparatory School amassed 276 points ahead of their closest rivals Questelles Government School with 168 points.
Rounding off the top five places were Paget Farm
Government School in third with 151 points followed by Canouan Government School on 149, and the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic on 130 points.
The Kingstown Preparatory School also topped the Female and Male individual categories. They amassed 161 points in the Female division and 115 points in the Male division.
Tiana Duncan of the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School was the Victrix Ludorum with 25 points, while Clifford Phillips of the Stephanie Browne Primary school was the Victor Ludorm with 38 points.
Among the outstanding individual performers, Levia Cato of the Chateaubelair Methodist was the top female athletes in the 7-8 category with 20 points, while Tre’on Cato took that award with 30 points in the boys’ category.
Tiana Duncan of the St
Mary’s Roman Catholic School took the 9-10 female segment with 25 points and Ellon Sandy of the Kingstown Preparatory School was the top male in that category with 24 points.
Odelia Compton of the Paget Farm Government was the top female athlete in the 11-13 age group with 24 points while Clifford Phillips compiled 38 points to be the top male in that gage group.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Kingstown Preparatory School took the 2025 Championship title after placing second in 2014.
Questelles Government School did themselves and their community proud by finishing second.
