THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 01-03-24

Traffickers’ issue addressed Page 4

Sandalstwo views Page 6

Another Jazz & Sunset Page 14

100 days to World Cup Page 24

Charges for infant’s death Page 28

GRENADIAN MURDER SUSPECTS HELD IN SVG

by HADYN HUGGINS

WHILE INVESTIGATIONS

CONTINUED, up to press time Thursday, into the presumed killing of U.S citizens, Ralph Hendry and his common-law wife Kathy Brandel, the main suspects are behind bars awaiting sentencing for illegal entry into SVG.

Around 4:30pm on February 21, local police apprehended the suspects, Ron Mitchel, 30; Trevon Robertson, 25; and Atiba Stanislaus, 23; all of Paradise, St. Andrews, Grenada.

The men were held at Petit Bordel on the North Western coast, after illegally entering the shores, following their escape from lawful custody, on February 18, while being held at the South St. George Police Station in Grenada on charges of rape, robbery, and other serious offenses.

The men appeared before the Senior Magistrate Colin John at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday and pleaded guilty to entering the state of SVG other than at a port of entry; entering the state by boat, and disembarking without the consent of an Immigration Officer; being a prohibited immigrant entered the state by boat without a passport; and knowingly and willfully allowing themselves to land as prohibited immigrants.

The Grenadians, who were unrepresented, have been remanded until next Monday, March 4, for presentation of facts and sentencing on the immigration charges.

In a statement issued, on February 26, the RSVG Police

Continued on Page 3.

L-R: Ron Mitchell, Atiba Stanislaus and Trevon Robertson.

Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brendel were described by their friends as “full-time yachties”.

American couple presumed dead

From Front page.

THE FATE OF AN AMERICAN COUPLE

who went missing between Sunday, 18th February and Monday, 19th February is unknown.

However, according to Superintendent of Police (SOP) Junior Simmons, Head of the Royal SVG Police Force Public Relations and Complaints Department, at a press conference on Monday, 26th March, “Based on the investigation thus far it is presumed Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brendel are deceased.”

And with the case wide open, a joint investigation, involving personnel of the Police Forces of Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has been mounted. A team from the Royal Grenada Police Force arrived here on Thursday, 22nd February, 2024.

A life at sea

According to widespread magazine coverage in the USA since the disappearance of the couple, the couple -

Ralph a 66-year-old financial advisor and Kathy a 71-year-old retired real estate agent who worked from their yacht, ‘Simplicity’, lived full-time aboard the boat and spent their retirement sailing the eastern seaboard and Caribbean.

They were described by those who knew them as experienced adventurers, sailing south in the winter for the last several years. The couple had recently participated in a sailing rally which ended in Antigua to kick off the new year in December. Once the rally had ended, they planned to spend the rest of the winter hopping from island to island, spending a few weeks at each. They had arrived to Grenada two weeks prior and were scheduled to spend an additional week before departing back north.

Their sons, who arrived in the Caribbean during this week, told People Magazine that their parents had been cruising in Grenada when they suddenly stopped communicating with family on February

18.

Connecting the dots

Meanwhile, three Grenadian male prisoners - Ron Mitchell, 30 years; Trevon Robertson, 25 years; and Atiba Stanislaus, 23 years - who escaped lawful custody on Sunday, 18th February, 2024 while being held at the South St. George

Police Station in Grenada on charges of rape, robbery with violence, and other serious offences are the main suspects in the disappearance of the couple.

According to the Royal SVG Police Force account, investigations thus far indicate that after the three Grenadians escaped, they hijacked a yacht

named “Simplicity” that was moored at Grand Anse Beach in Grenada, and kidnapped the couple.

“Investigation further revealed that while sailing from Grenada the suspects committed several criminal acts including bodily harm to the couple,” Simmons told the press conference.

On Monday, 19th February 2024, the

Grenadian murder suspects held in SVG

Continued from Front page.

Force disclosed that joint investigations by local law enforcement, and their Grenadian counterparts are ongoing into the disappearance and presumed death of the two U.S citizens, and the main suspects are the three Grenadians.

According to the release, the investigations thus far, indicate that after the men escaped lawful custody in Grenada, they hijacked a yacht named, ‘Simplicity’ that was moored at Grande

Anse Beach in Grenada and kidnapped the couple. While sailing from Grenada they committed several criminal acts, including bodily harm to the couple.

On Monday, February 19, the fugitives illegally entered the South Western coast of St. Vincent and the Grenadines sometime in the afternoon and docked the yacht off Walliabou anchorage.

On Wednesday, February 21, the police received certain information concerning the escapees and the discovery of the yacht

in the area. A manhunt was immediately launched and the local Coast Guard and the Crime Scene Unit were dispatched to the location where the yacht was found. The scene was processed and found to be consistent with signs of violence. Several items were strewn on deck, and in the cabin; and a red substance resembling blood was seen on board, but no bodies were recovered.

The suspects are said to be cooperating with the investigations.

escapees/suspects

illegally entered the South Western Coast of SVG, sometime in the afternoon, and docked the yacht off Walliabou Anchorage.

Acting Commissioner of the Royal Grenada Police Force, Don McKenzie, said at a news conference on Monday in Grenada, that it is believed the suspects “disposed of the occupants” on their way to St. Vincent.

On February 21, the ‘Simplicity’ was found in an abandoned state, anchored off the coast of St. Vincent. The mainsails had been torn, and the boat’s tender was missing its outboard motor.

The SVG Coast Guard and the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) were dispatched to the location where the yacht was found.

The scene was processed and found to be consistent with signs of violence. Several items were strewn on the deck and in the cabin, and a red substance that resembled blood was seen on board. There was no discovery of bodies on board the yacht.

A manhunt was immediately launched and the men were recaptured on Wednesday at about 4:35 p.m., during an operation by members of the Narcotics and Rapid Response Units in the North Western village of Petit Bordel. Two (2) other Grenadian nationals were also apprehended during the operation.

The Public Relations and Complaints Department head said that the Acting Commissioner of Police in charge of crimes, Trevor Bailey, met with family members of the couple and their legal representatives to update them on the status of the investigations.

The ‘Simplicity’ which the couple made their home and from which they worked.

Small tradersÊ plight: ECCB proposes solutions

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN CENTRAL BANK (ECCB) has proposed several temporary measures aimed at addressing the problems associated with traders in agricultural produce (traffickers) being paid in Trinidad and Tobago.

On December 31, 2023, the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago terminated its arrangement with the ECCB to facilitate payment to persons trading goods in that country.

This arrangement dated back to 2018 when a solution was arrived at involving both central banks and the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG), to facilitate transactions for local small traders in TT dollar notes up to TT$1.5 million per month.

The issue arose in the ‘Question for Oral’ segment of Parliament on February 22 when opposition Senator Israel Bruce asked for an update on the issue.

In response, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told the Parliament that the Governor of the ECCB, Tomothy Antoine, had advanced, on February 9, proposals for a temporary solution.

The first proposal was for the

establishment of an arrangement with Republic Bank for the clearing of TT dollar (Bank) drafts, bought by traders in Trinidad and Tobago and brought to the BOSVG by the traders for clearing.

“The proposal is for the clearing of the drafts to be done by Republic Bank’s head office in Trinidad and Tobago,” Gonsalves explained but pointed out the disadvantage with this proposal, to wit, only drafts will be considered and not all traders had arrangements in place to exchange their TT dollars for a TT bank draft.

The second proposal was for small traders to establish accounts with the Republic Bank here, which allows them to deposit TT cash or draft with a Republic Bank branch in Trinidad and Tobago.

“Some banks give you difficulties in opening accounts, so we will have to facilitate that with them,” Dr. Gonsalves noted.

And as a last resort, Antoine noted that the ECCB could arrange to sell Republic Bank SVG the corresponding US dollars to offset the TT dollar that

was cleared by the head office in Trinidad and Tobago.

Thousands of dollars’ worth of agricultural produce leaves Kingstown for Port of Spain on a weekly basis.

Republic Bank SVG could in turn transfer its US currency through their US dollar correspondent bank account to their head office correspondent bank account.

This, Antoine noted, occurs within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union but would warrant some investigation to determine if the same type of arrangement is in effect with

Two-year wait for fire tender

because you get problems with spare parts, you get all kinds of challenges,” he said.

And according to him, new fire tenders have been purchased to serve the airports on Bequia and Union Island, however it may be another two years before these new vehicles arrive in the state.

“This is the problem to get these items,” he said.

He was at the time responding to a question in Parliament on February 22 posed by Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday to address the recent closure of the J.F Mitchell airport in Bequia because the fire tender was unable to disperse water.

service making it difficult for a mechanic to travel to the Grenadine Island.

According to Gonsalves, in response, a senior mechanic stationed at the Argyle International Airport (AIA) initiated communication with fire personnel at the J.F Mitchell airport to diagnose the issue, but they were unable to do so, the Prime Minister explained.

“Consequently, a decision was made to engage the trusted mechanic on Bequia, known for his competence in servicing equipment.”

the head office in Trinidad and Tobago.

The issue is at the centre of ongoing discussions between the Central Banks of Trinidad and Tobago and the Eastern Caribbean and BOSVG, and the matter was expected to be raised at the just concluded CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in Guyana, Gonsalves added. (Stories by DD)

time.

WHILE HE SAID THAT HE UNDERSTOODthe generosity involved, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said that he has issue accepting donations of secondhand fire tenders and the like.

“I rarely want to be replacing these sorts of things

This resulted in the facility being forced to close in compliance with civil aviation safety regulations.

Gonsalves then proceeded to briefly explain what took place on February 9 saying that at around 8:30 a.m., information was received about the issue relating to the fire tender.

On the said day, a storm surge prevented any ferry

Upon inspection, it was determined that the solenoid controlling the priming pump had malfunctioned.

And although efforts were made to rectify the issue, the water pressure remained inadequate for effective firefighting, the Prime Minister explained.

Thoughts of deploying an alternative fire tender to Bequia was not possible at the

Therefore, the decision was made to close the airport up until a potential solution was identified through a decommissioned truck at BRAGSA’s facility in Cane Hall.

Coordination was done by the relevant parties and the entire solenoid and priming pump assembly from the truck on the mainland were removed by AIA mechanics and transported to Bequia via speedboat.

And upon the mechanic’s return to the J.F Mitchell airport, the faulty parts were

replaced. However, although there was some improvement in the water pressure, the priming pump continued to malfunction intermittently, Gonsalves told Parliament.

Arrangements were made and a mechanic and assistant journeyed to Bequia on Saturday, February 10.

“The objective was to conduct overnight repairs with the aim of reopening the airport on Sunday morning, February 11, and in fact on Sunday morning, at around 9:30 the fire engine was up and running again,” Gonsalves said. (DD)

The J. F. Mitchell airport was forced into closure because of a non-functioning fire tender.

Governor of the ECCB, Tomothy Antoine, proposed measure to address the situation and those proposals are apparently being explored.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves gave the Parliament a chronological account of the saga surrounding the recent temporary closure of the J.F. Mitchell airport.

Sale of LIAT fleet not confirmed

GASTON BROWNE, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, announced over the weekend that negotiations between Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and his government over the sale of aircrafts had concluded, and that all governments with shares in LIAT have agreed to sell them to LIAT 2020.

This announcement did not attract either a comment far less confirmation by the CDB, and there were no details, from either party, of what were the conditions of sale.

Isaac Solomon, acting President of the CDB, chose instead, in a press conference in Bridgetown, Barbados, on Tuesday 20th February, to address the issue of intra-regional air travel in a broad sense.

Solomon reiterated the Bank’s support for efforts to boost intra-regional travel after the collapse of LIAT 1974 and underscored CDB’s willingness to provide assistance in resolving the air transportation limitations affecting the Caribbean.

“We are encouraged by

Ex-LIAT workers win in Court: Appeal to government

FORMER Grenada employees of LIAT (1974) Ltd., which officially ceased to ‘exist’ on January 24, 2024, are calling on the Dickon Mitchellled government to intervene towards resolving the issue of EC$2 million awarded to them in compensation by a high court judge.

The appeal is prompted moreso by the fact that the airline is now totally out of business.

The appeal to government was, according to THE NEW TODAY newspaper which cited information it received from a former LIAt employee, was decided upon “in light of reports that LIAT will no longer be operating and that its operations are now being taken over by a Nigerian-based airline company”.

THE NEW TODAY went on to quote its source as saying that “plans are afoot to make a direct approach to Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell to intervene or assist in bringing closure to this outstanding matter with the regional island-hopping carrier”.

“….Our workers are just here suffering and a $2 million judgment has not been satisfied,” THE NEW TODAY further quoted its source.

The local law firm of Geo. E.D. Clyne, which

won the judgment against LIAT for the workers, is known to have written directly to LIAT to pay the workers.

About 18 months ago, the LIAT workers in Grenada made an unsuccessful attempt to seize one of LIAT’s aircraft in lieu of the monies owed to them.

Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, is on record as saying, “… Government cannot commit to honouring all of LIAT’s commitment to workers but we can certainly engage in discussion with the staff and the union to determine how we can help.”

should be entered in favour of the claimants’.

the number of private actors who entered the space as part of the Covid-19 recovery,” Solomon said.

He proceeded to highlight the importance of air transport in the region saying, “Air transport is critical for our development, and it is part of the whole connectivity ecosystem. Connectivity is very important for our development as a region…connectivity in all its dimensions is about maritime transport, air transport…and given the diverse cultural nature of some of our countries, we are connected in that way as well.”

Prime Minister Browne’s approach to the CDB to purchase the remaining LIAT fleet came as he moved with renewed vigor to establish his LIAT 2020 airline as a replacement for LIAT (1974) Ltd.

The fleet became ‘the

property’ of the CDB when LIAT failed to honour a commitment on a loan the Bank had provided for purchase of the fleet from French suppliers.

Towards establishing LIAT 2020, the Gaston Browne led government made provision for some $43 million as an investment in the new company which, according to Browne, would have Air Peace, a Nigerian airline, as a major shareholder along with interests by other regional governments.

Meanwhile, conflict continues between the government and the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU) regarding outstanding severance pay for hundreds of former LIAT (1974) workers.

The Prime Minister recently said he is prepared to restart talks but will still not entertain discussions that revolve around the

Speculation is rife that pressure at the political level in the region torpedoed the efforts of the embattled ex-LIAT workers, this as reported by THE NEW TODAY.

The judgement handed down by Justice Agnes Actie, in favour of the workers, read in part: “The court having reviewed the statement of claim, the witness statements and evidence, is satisfied that the claimants have established that the defendant by its own admission is indebted to the claimants and judgment on liability

The ruling ordered and directed: “Judgment on liability in favour of the claimants with damages to be assessed; claimants to file witness statements, submissions and authorities in support of the assessment of damages on or before 30th March 2024; the defendant, if interested in participating in the assessment, shall file and serve witness statements, submissions with authorities on or before the 30th April 2024; the assessment of damages shall be scheduled for hearing on 14th June 2024, unless a consent order on quantum is filed”.

(Source: THE NEW TODAY)

payment of full severance.

The government’s latest offer is for a 32 percent payment in cash and bonds, which amounts to approximately EC$110 million.

ABWU General Secretary David Massiah has maintained his stance of fighting for 100 percent severance pay.

Isaac Solomon, Acting President of the CDB, did not speak to the negotiations with the Antigua government about the sale of aircraft.

Justice Agnes Actie –awarded EC$2 million to the LIAT workers in Grenada.

Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, according to reports, sounded optimistic when he announced the closure of talks with the CDB.

SANDALS St. Vincent and the Grenadines

THE NEWEST SANDALS ALLADULT,all-inclusive Resort in Buccament, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is scheduled to open officially on March 27, 2024.

Towards this end and confident of its spring opening, the Resort, with its 330-350 rooms/suites, diverse culinary offerings and many more luxuries for which Sandals has become known, wasted no time opening for reservations as early as September 2023.

The multi-million-dollar project has not been without its ‘concerns’ and as has become the norm in small developing island economies, there have been some differing views about how the project has unfolded and what benefit it holds for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE VINCENTIAN is pleased to present just a taste of the views/positions that have been articulated.

Appreciating the benefits of Sandals

* given the number of people coming here, Sandals will have to work with the local tour operators;

* One local tour operator to benefit is Coastal Adrenaline, providers of an ATV service ….. Coastal Adrenaline has signed on to a contract to become one of the official operators for Island Routes; Sandals is not buying ATVs to do tours; they are subcontracting at very competitive rates;

Addressing Sandals: Vincentians can’t be spectators

Editor’s Note: The following are extracts from an episode of the New Times Programme, Monday 26th February, 2024, featuring Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition.

* Vincentians should not be spectators of development in their country, amidst reports that a number of foreign entities will be providing agricultural produce, sea food and tour services for the resort;

provided and people would benefit from this;

* And what happens is that they turn around now and say that it’s for you to make yourself ready.

Editor’s Note: The following are extracts from a presentation made by Tourism Minister Carlos James, during an appearance on Star Radio, ULP Speaks Programme, Tuesday 28th, February, 2024.

* local companies will benefit because of the creation news markets;

* a market will be created for farmers and fisher folks and others;

* Island Routes will create packages and the tours…. some local company must be involved to do the transportation, to do the catering,… providing flowers etc.;

* tour companies will also benefit from partnering with Island Roots … among those mentioned are Winds and Seas Tours, Blue Destination Service.

* Island Routes not importing kayaks nor ATVs to use in tours;

James: “I not believe that I should be explaining how local business will benefit from the Resort when it is operational. ……. I mean though it’s important for public knowledge, but a lot of the local business men and women who are invested in this thing, is their business. I don’t have to come here and tell you their business but I can big them up because Coastal Adrenaline is officially part of the tour package for Island Routes.

“That is how the thing is set up, because you are dealing with a large company, the public liability exposure, they want to align themselves with a company who can also put up that level of risk in terms of protecting the investment and working with smaller companies to bring them under the umbrella, to ensure that they are benefitting and the linkages are created within the sector.” (KH)

* The public wants to know how the nation is going to benefit from the Sandals investment;

* Government should negotiate on the behalf and for the benefit of its people… look out for the interests of the country, look out for the interests of the people…. we are basically coming to the table now for the first time;

* Sandals has three resorts in St. Lucia… they have a stronger position here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

* You come all of a sudden then spring this on them when you tell them in the Parliament the other day there’s 700,000 pounds, millions of dollars’ worth of goods and services that will be

Dr. Godwin Friday, Opposition Leader, was vehement in his attack on government for, as he put it, leaving the people out of the equation involving Sandals.

Ready in what way? How do we know what we need to do? You haven’t told us and Sandals now says, ‘we want to deal with one supplier or two suppliers or whatever major suppliers.’ Who are these going to be?”

* Is it going to be simply Rainforest, which I’m told is related to their operation in terms of family relations?

* Whatever agreement they make with Sandals, we don’t have it. It’s not part of public domain……. it was not the case during this stage of construction

* The government allowed Sandals to import a lot of workers because they wanted to accelerate the construction. It’s always a matter of

convenience and expediency, whereas the same time the rest of our people are just being left aside because they’re too slow, they want too much money, they’re not skilled enough and all this kind of x$&* that they’re talking about, and talking about people as if they are not part of the development process.

* We can’t be spectators of development in our own country. So, if you think that there are shortcomings, there are bottlenecks, then solve them. Don’t just treat them as though that they’re fatal, that you can’t improve them; you can’t change them so that our people can really benefit and take part in these developments.”

Carlos James, Tourism Minister, spoke of what he perceived to be some of the benefits to be derived from the Sandals Resort at Buccament.

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

Holding parents responsible

THE INCIDENT OF A SECONDARY SCHOOL student slashing the throat/neck of another secondary school student, as reported in last week’s news, indicate the danger and trauma faced by children both inside and outside the classroom.

Yes, in times past there would have been no thought or very little if any, of a student being in danger within the confines of his/her school.

But if the truth be told, there have been numerous incidents, some reaching the courts, of violent acts perpetrated by secondary school students (male and female) and persons of secondary school age.

The fact is, that together with what we have been made to endure by the viral videos of explicit sexual acts involving secondary school students, our school-aged children are ‘getting out of control’.

Violence now abounds both inside and outside our schools. It is perhaps only right that we record here that there are many acts unbecoming of our young people, that do not make the news. Are we to assume that schools are guilty of ‘covering up’ the extent of the problem? We would like to think otherwise.

The question abounds: Have we got to a point beyond where all we think is necessary for dealing with the issue is ministers and education officials making statements and delivering grandiose speeches about our young people being fostered in a culture of violence… and how the adults are appalled and deeply grieved?

The situation in our schools has gone beyond the classical expressions of ‘bullying’ and crossed the line into a deeper more far-reaching culture.

But lest we forget, just where are the parents and guardians in this whole scheme of things? Should parents be held responsible for their children’s ‘crimes’?

Some people argue that parents should be held responsible for the misbehaviour of their children, while others affirm that they should not be liable.

Unquestionably, parents hold much accountability in the course of rearing their children. Parents should not only teach their children what is right and wrong, but also the best means of behaving.

Nativism and Tribalism

A NEW TREND IN LOCAL POLITICS

In this aspect, parents are responsible for inculcating values into their children as they grow. And on this score, parents should be held responsible for the shortcomings of their children.

But holding parents responsible does not insinuate that the children are blameless for their miscreant activities. The two concepts are not mutually exclusive, meaning they both should be held accountable.

Since parents ought to be aware of and control the actions of their children, they should accept the responsibility of bearing the consequences of their (children’s) involvement in acts and actions that are at variance with the law.

Should parents, therefore, consider it a failure when their children develop destructive behaviors?

Yes, some people are convinced that parents should not be held responsible for the “crimes” of their children, the reason being that children have a choice to behave in the way they deem fit, and holding the parents responsible for their children’s lawless behavior is a means of shifting the blame.

Other will die believing that to hold parents responsible for their children’s behavior makes it much easier for children to engage in misdemeanors as they know their parents will take the blame and not themselves.

And yes, others will say that parents should not be held responsible for the crimes of their children since their engagement in unlawful, unbecoming action does not always signify that their parents failed to inculcate good morals in them. Some children could have been raised well but were attributable to negative peer pressure, choosing a different route, and misbehaving.

Although parents are supposed to supervise and correct their children, they are not to blame for every one of their actions. Rebellious children will engage in evil behavior irrespective of being punished or taught good morals by their parents.

Since parenting is crucial to molding the behavior of children, it is necessary that parents, who might think they know, be educated on proper ways of raising their children.

everywhere seems to be nativism. I will say it as clearly as I can. Please stop it. We do not need nativism in SVG. If we are serious about building a nation, we must stop cultivating political tribalism and nativism. It is not the way to win over the hearts and souls of our people.

So, you can understand my disappointment when I read that the Hon. St Clair Leacock said: “I ain’t going so far as Trump for a Vincentians-first philosophy. But you ain’t running the vendors out of the town to make way for another business group, welcomed as they are.” I will leave it up to the readers to conclude which group he refers to. Everything you said about protecting vendor space in Middle Street could have been communicated without invoking the name of the most repulsive politician of the twenty-first century and nativism.

I agree that the middle street section you spoke of (from Jax to Heritage Square) should be reversed for vendors. Our “haphazard” approach to providing vendor space in Kingstown leaves much to be desired. A carefully planned, structured policy for vending in the middle street would benefit everyone. This space should be reserved for locals to sell agroprocessed goods and crafts.

At the risk of being tarred and feathered, I will outline my ideas for a plan for the area. Firstly, I most certainly opposed the idea of the number of bars and cooler vendors currently in the area selling alcohol. The vehicular traffic on Middle Street should be limited to delivery trucks from 7 pm to 7 am. The cobbler stones should be redone to ensure a leveler, safe surface with adequate drainage. South River Road cross street should be limited to one-way traffic from south to north. Now, for what some could view as controversial: All those clothes vendors and those selling the excess “stuff” from the Christmas barrels should be moved out. Please sell those things in the neighborhood shop. This space should be limited to artists and various agro-processed items, like local wines, dried fruits, vegetables, pepper sources, jams, jelly, etc.

If we are to achieve the goal set by our agricultural minister of reducing our food import bill by 25% by next year, we must capture this opportunity. We must develop support systems for entrepreneurs who wish to venture into agro-processing. We can reduce our food import bill and save foreign

exchange for our country. At this point, I am not even asking you, Mr. Minister, to search for overseas markets to sell our goods. Just give us an opportunity locally.

No one can deny that we continue to live in times when prices for locally grown crops continue to fluctuate widely. A few months ago, a sack of dasheen was sold for nearly $300; today, the same sack is only fetching $80. We continue to struggle with developing a stable and consistent source of foreign exchange. While we are making some progress in tourism, we have a long way to go toward spreading the benefits across the nation. For example, the recent announcement that Sandals will most likely purchase its fish supply from Rainforest rather than directly from the local fishermen, was a disappointment. A quick search of the internet would explain that decision. I beg for your indulgence as I restate the benefits of Agro-processing. Agroprocessing refers to a subset of manufacturing that processes raw materials and intermediate products from the agricultural sector. It can be defined simply as the processing of farm products, creating a by-product, or extending the availability of seasonal fruits.

The agro-processing industry transforms products from agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. The agroprocessing sector adds significant value to raw agricultural products. The new product, therefore, has value added in the three dimensions of the primary value-added stage (packaging of fresh produce), processing/extraction stage (extraction and packaging of juices, starch, and flour), and the preparation of foods (minimal processing such as jams and jellies).

Agro-processing is especially important as it encourages sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, and food security. Agro-processing creates enhanced agricultural productivity and increased farm household incomes, promotes yearround availability of affordable, safe, and nutritious food, and creates jobs.

The agro-processing industry is essential to the economy not only through the addition of creating new local products on a commercial scale but also by providing many jobs through continued growth and expansion of the sector.

Horatio.

Letters V

Calling out CWSA/SWMU

AS A CITIZENof North Leeward, I find it very disheartening with the garbage disposal in my area. Those of us from communities whose garbage pick-up day is on Friday, continue to be negatively affected. The stench of garbage left on the side of roadways until late Friday nights sometimes into early Saturday mornings has

become overbearing.

The garbage is not picked up on time. This has become too prevalent now. The garbage trucks are always breaking down. Those “fancy trucks” were not designed for our hilly terrains and thus keep having mechanical problems. Recently, I was coming from Kingstown and saw one

of those trucks reversing up to Troumaca from Rose Bank. I didn’t know if to laugh or stewps.

When garbage is put out between 5:30am and 6:00am and it is not removed within a reasonable time, the situation becomes worse.

Stray dogs and cats will have a field day.

Garbage bins are turned over by these animals in

search of food. The contents are left in the streets and this is a serious issue.

I believe that better can be done and therefore my appeal to the relevant authorities. I want to suggest that if there is a problem with the contractor who cannot pick up the garbage within a timely manner, then the

contract for garbage disposable should be given to someone else.

There are many trucks in the North Leeward area that can do the job until things are sorted out.

It’s too much now. It’s unbearable. We demand better treatment.

Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews

Death Penalty.. NO!! Mr. Minister of Economic Development

THIS IS a very short response to a letter captioned ‘Use the Death Penalty’ published in your newspaper of Friday 9th February, 2024.

The letter writer, Joshua, L, clearly supported the use of the death penalty, implying that it is a deterrent to violent crime, like murder.

I would like to tell Mr. Joshua, L that there is no evidence that the application of the death penalty, which as the writer correctly states is still on our law books, leads to less crime and more specifically less killing.

Whether one compares the number of cases of homicide in Canada and the US where some states use the death penalty while others have abolished it, there is no real effect of the death penalty (capital punishment) on reducing crime.

Why does Joshua, L think that in a small society like ours that the opposite will hold true?

The death penalty or what some call statesponsored execution, does not, according to the abundance of evidence, help in effectively reducing crime, i.e. murder.

J. Jones, St. Vincent.

MR. EDITOR,please

allow me this space in your publication to seek clarity on the role of our Minister of Economic Development.

It seems since the Sandal’s Resort is nearer to opening there are diminishing economic opportunities for our local businesses, especially small business owners.

Our fishermen, farmers, beach vendors and now our taxi and tour operators seem exempted from this wave, this cusp of economic activity.

As per www.islandroutes.co m: ‘St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. With its lush green hills,

pristine white-sand beaches, and crystalclear turquoise waters, it is a haven for wonder seekers. Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, hike to hidden waterfalls, or simply unwind on secluded shores. This archipelago offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty and warm hospitality, making it the perfect destination for those yearning to escape to a tranquil and breathtaking slice of paradise.’

The site quotes up to $3,343.00 US dollars for private golf in Canouan and a La Soufriere Hike for US$272.00 per person.

According to the government website, the

Thanks Taiwan and tackling pollution

ON A RECENTvisit to Saint Vincent, where I was based at Arnos Vale, I was greatly impressed by the fine sporting facilities of the local tennis club, which are extensively used and appreciated by school children and students from the nearby colleges. This sports facility was kindly donated by the Government and

good people of Taiwan who were also a major contributor to the construction of the Argyle International Airport. It is therefore outrageous and totally inaccurate for the SVG Green Party to claim in their article which appeared in the Friday, 24th of March, 2023 edition of THE VINCENTIAN, that

PEOPLE ARE ASKING:

* How much is it coting the country to host the V111 CELAC Summit 2024?

* Are these monies coming from an allocation in the 2024 Budget or is the National Lottery expected to take up the cost as it has done for other regional meetings?

* Has the government addressed all the logistics appropriate to a meeting of this sort?

* How much has it cost us to serve as the Secretariat of CELAC and to attend CELAC meeting during our Presidency Pro-Tempore 2023?

* Are we expected to compensate Sandals for loss of work days on an ongoing ‘construction’ site?

* Is this a soft opening of Sandals as we had for the Ames operated Buccament Bay resort?

“Taiwan has held back the development of SVG.”

As for the entirely false claim that alignment with mainland China would bring investment and trade, you only need to look at countries such as Sri Lanka, Zambia and Kenya and their own unhappy experiences with Road & Belt Treaties, not to mention the tragic fate of Tibet and more recently Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, Jomo Thomas’ article on “Climate Change”, carried in the same edition of THE VINCENTIAN as referenced earlier, fails to address the real issues, including global overpopulation! Playing the blame game is not helpful and is counter-productive.

The chronic road traffic congestion and emissions pollution on feeder roads into

Kingstown at rush-over, need to be tackled urgently. The lack of ANY speed limit on these feeder roads or even emissions control is lamentable, and has a huge impact on the local environment and the local people who inhale these nasty car fumes.

The ONLY viable long-term alternative to the current noise and pollution of fossil-fuel vehicles is the gradual introduction of clean-air electric modes of transport, including cars, trucks and motorcycles which are noiseless, and the phasing-out of oldfashioned and polluting fossil-fuel vehicles permanently in line with the new general trend adopted worldwide by car manufacturers themselves, as the ultimate solution for the transport future free of fossil-fuels forever!

Rob Sam

Ministry of Economic Development’s mandate is, ‘to plan for sustainable economic development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.’

This begs the question: Is St. Vincent and the Grenadines just a land mass or it’s people?

Communicative policing

ONE SOLUTIONthat should help the police better prevent and solve crimes is to provide them with adequate communication equipment. Modern policing depends on receiving and disseminating information. Consequently, they should be provided with the appropriate devices to facilitate this. The smart cell phone can be used to talk, take pictures, receive and send messages. It is quick and efficient.

Too many court cases are adjourned because one or more of the parties were not notified. Since most people have access to a cellphone, they can be notified via WhatsApp followed by a confirmation call.

Some suggested that satellite phones are superior because they would work even in remote areas.

Every law enforcement officer should have the appropriate electronic device to aid their work. Police stations should have computers that should help with the general record keeping including taking, duplicating and transmission of information.

In too many cases, finance seems to be inhibiting progress. Police may use their personal devices until they are provided with official devices. They should be given an allowance in such cases.

Communities should adopt police stations in their areas and help them to acquire needed electronic equipment, one piece at a time. The work of law enforcement should be done without fear or favor. In this way confidence of the public will be gained and information will flow without inhibition and more crimes will be prevented and solved.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD.

Carlyle Douglas

Believe what you see (Pt 1)

(Excerpt)

THE ISSUE

THE FOLK WISDOM of our country teaches, among other things, that it is wiser to believe what you see than what you hear.

This truism is all the more important in the age of social media where the “internet crazies” of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) go wild with vile propaganda, lies, falsehoods, and misinformation.

These “internet crazies” want you to believe that SVG has gone backwards under the ULP government; they pull down everything that is good in our country; they create negative vibes about every achievement of the government; they create and promote dissatisfaction without any justification whatsoever; and they propagate a complaints industry every hour of every day on radio, social media, Instagram, and online publications. These “internet crazies” stuffed with the bile and anger of the NDP leadership and enwrapped with opportunistic personal agendas are the proverbial arsonists but with a twist: “Burn everything to the ground but give the NDP a chance to rebuild what is destroyed.” That is the essence of their political arson!

So, in this climate “believe what you see”. Let us not talk cold statistics today; let us see with our own eyes clearly on a bundle of relevant matters.

HOUSES, ELECTRICITY, WATER, TELEPHONES, APPLIANCES

In 2001, when the ULP took office the number of houses was below 30,000. Today, SVG has over 46,000 houses. And the houses are far better constructed and bigger.

In 2001, a whopping four-to-five out of every ten of the 30,000 had pit toilets in the yard; NDP had a pit toilet building programme today almost every house has flush toilets.

In 2001, only 21,000 houses had pipeborne water and electricity; today, 45,000 houses have pipe-borne water and electricity. In 2001, only a small number of houses had telephones –landlines; today, there are over 120,000 cell phones in a population of under 110,000.

In 2001, only a small number of houses had television sets; today almost every house has at least one TV set; most homes have more than one. In 2001, large numbers of households did not have stoves or fridges; today, almost all have stoves and fridges, and of good quality. In 2001, only a small minority of households had washing machines; today, most houses have washing machines.

So, believe what you see; not what you hear from the “internet crazies” of the NDP and its leadership.

GARBAGE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL

In March 2001, garbage from households was collected only in Kingstown and its immediate environs. Today – in fact since October 2021 –garbage is collected weekly from every house on St. Vincent and twice weekly in Bequia, Union Island and Canouan. The unsightly, open garbage dumps at Arnos Vale, Bequia, and Union Island are no more. In 2001, there was one land fill on St. Vincent; since then, the ULP put in place another, at Belle Isle on the Leeward side of the island.

The place is much cleaner! Believe what you see!

MOTOR VEHICLES

In 2001, there were less than 8,000 vehicles on the road; today there is over 35,000 vehicles – more than four times the number in 2001. More and more working people are owning vehicles; in 2001, only a small minority owned vehicles.

Further, there are far more passenger paying vehicles on the road – mini buses, taxis, Noahs, and SUVs – than ever in our country’s history. As the economy is being transformed, and improved, and internal travel increases, there is an explosion of vehicle ownership, including passenger vehicles.

Believe what you see, not what the NDP crazies tell you!

ROADS, BRIDGES, RIVER AND SEA DEFENCES

In 2001, only the North Leeward Highway was in good condition. The Windward Highway from Kingstown to Fancy was in a complete and utter state of disrepair; so, too, the South Leeward Highway; and the Vigie Highway. The ULP government rebuilt these highways at a cost of over $150 million; and we have maintained them well.

Dozens of bridges were in a state of utter disrepair in 2001; the ULP government rebuilt them all. Among the major ones are: Plan and Sharpes in Chateaubelair; Cumberland-Spring Village; Retreat and Francois; South River Road (Middle Bridge), so-called “Bridge-over-Troubled-Water”), Bridge near to NEMO headquarters; Peruvian Vale; Mt. Grenan; Colonarie; Byera; Mt Young; Caratal; Basin Hole; the iconic Rabacca Bridge; Overland and Orange Hill; and Bridge to Cottage in Fancy.

Since 2001, river defences have been built at every major river on St. Vincent, either upstream or downstream or both. So, too, numerous sea defences, including major ones at Layou, San Souci, Black Point, Georgetown, Caratal, and Langley Park; the massive sea defence has started at Sandy Bay.

Believe what you see, not what the NDP crazies tell you!

AIRPORTS AND SEAPORT

In 2001, there was no international airport; there was a very limited, small airport at Arnos Vale, E.T. Joshua; there was also a small, almost non-functional runway at Canouan. The ULP government built the Jet Airport at Canouan (opened in 2007), and the Argyle International Airport, opened in February 2017. The NDP said that both were impossible to be done but ULP did them. These airports have been transformative of the economy and society.

The old Kingstown Port built around 1960 started to fall apart during the time of the NDP government which decided to build a small, inadequate, poorly-constructed port at Campden Park. The ULP government is now constructing a modern port in Kingstown costing some $650 million; this modern port will be opened in MayJune 2025.

Believe what you see, not what the NDP crazies tell you!

ULP Government paying lip service to the blue economy

(Excerpts of the Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Dr Godwin Friday’s response to Budget 2024)

“FOR TOO LONG, the government has paid lip service to the blue economy and they continue to do it. For over 15 years, they say they have been providing money for fleet expansion and upgrading and they are still at the verge of the blue economy taking off. How much hope must you have before you can say, well, listen, this is not working.

No fleet expansion has taken place and fish export comprise less than a quarter of 1% of GDP. We have tremendous potential, but we are simply not exploiting it. To say that you have a program in place for 15 years, and you have nothing to show, it tells me that you are not serious. There are so many promises and so many things that are put out there, and it seems they are just repeated and repeated because nobody could be bothered to remove them, if they are not being implemented.

There’s too much potential here in our fishing industry to be able to just let it go. The Minister in his presentation said that there was going to be a Solidarity Fishing Fleet. This was in the 2023 budget. They had four $4.4 million to spend in 2023. None of it was spent. I don’t know why, but none of it was spent. This is to be spent on these so-called Solidarity Fishing Fleet, which was done with the Alba Bank. That $4.4 million is back in the 2024 budget. How will the money be used now? What is different in this year from last year’s to say that the money would be spent and how it will be spent?

The Minister in his remarks on page11 speaks about fleet expansion. Madam Speaker, this is what he says, ‘So while our talented fishers do not need to be taught to fish, they do need greater experience operating larger modern commercial fishing vessels, recognizing this need and hoping to move more fishers from near-shore subsistence fishing to more commercially viable production. We have collaborated with the Alba Bank to introduce the Solidarity Fleet Enhancement program. The Solidarity Fishing Fleet Project will spend $4.4 million this year to purchase the equipment and equip for modern tuna boats in the first instance, and to train fishers in the operation of those vessels and the business of commercial fishing. On completion of their training, we will assist fishers with demonstrated interest and aptitude to operate their own commercial tuna boats.’

It seems like such a casual comment, to operate their own tuna boats. Where are they going to get the tuna boats from? The problem Madam Speaker, is that the Solidarity Fishing Fleet program of 4.4 million dollars, sounds like the government is going to buy its own boats and is going to operate them. So, the government is going to be the cutting edge of the fishing industry.

Then the fisherfolk who are supposedly to be benefiting from the program, they are going out and being trained. Then you can go and operate your own tuna boat. Do you know how

much it costs to operate a tuna boat? I have a friend who is doing that business. It is not an easy thing. Why did you put in there so casually? As if people could just go and get a tuna boat. Where is the funding coming from to do it?

The government has put $500,000 in the estimates to say that they will use that for down payments for loans that fisherfolk are supposed to get, and that will unleash another $2.5 million. How is it going to unleash it? This is money that is going to the bank and to be borrowed. How is that program working? I hope the Minister will say something about it because from the reports that I have heard, I mean, for 15 years, they have been doing it and nothing is happening.

There is so much potential in the fishing industry. The $500,000 to help fisherfolk to be able to get in a position to move from the subsistence fishing that you speak about to a more commercially viable fishing; that is a pittance and that is telling me that you are not serious in assisting the fisherfolk and no wonder all the years nothing has happened. The bottleneck in this system clearly is the lack of capital.

That is where you need to focus the attention of government to providing that assistance, so you could unlock it. Telling people the government will make the down payment; then you have to go and borrow from GECCU. GECCU now has to check all of your references and see if you are qualified. It obviously isn’t working. So it’s a cynical trick, Madam Speaker, to play on fishers. I want to hear what the Minister of Fisheries is going to say about it, because quite frankly, it makes him looks bad because he is in charge of this program and he needs to make sure that he has a way to say, listen, this is real.”

The way Forward

The NDP’s plan to build the blue economy as a pillar of the economy includes the following:

* Create a new Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Conservation

* Develop the fishing industry to benefit fisherfolk

* Upgrade fisheries centres

* Invest in new equipment for fisherfolk

* Introduce a credit system for fisherfolk

* Help seafarers obtain certificates for jobs on ships

* Improve safety at sea using satellite technology;

* Review marine resource management to ensure sustainability

* Improve ship registry to generate more revenue and jobs

* Redevelop the Ottley Hall Marina and Shipyard to create good-paying

The NDP is committed to developing the blue economy. Growing the blue economy will strengthen the country’s economy and create more and better-paid jobs.

Views V An Attitude of Gratitude

“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” - Zig Ziglar (1926-2012) – American author, salesman, and motivational speaker.

IT IS ALWAYS SO VERY REFRESHING to converse with individuals who demonstrate an attitude of gratitude. Some of these persons may have been tested to the core and have gone through some of life’s most challenging situations but express thanks for what they still have. They may have lost body functions as a result of an accident or a disease but still appear radiant as they express appreciation for the many privileges that they have retained. They may appear battered and bruised but still see the beauty of life and living.

An attitude of gratitude, thankfulness, is a powerful force. It can transform lives, relationships, and communities. Amidst the trauma and turbulence that are ever evident in our lives, we can be at peace as we reflect on the blessings that surround and engulf us on a daily basis; so many things that we take for granted. In a fast-paced world that is often overshadowed by challenges and negativity, it is relatively easy to lose sight of the many things that we should be thankful for. Practicing the attitude of gratitude creates and sustains a mindset of appreciation, fortitude, and positivity. As we reflect and introspect in relation to our blessings, we readily discover so many things that enrich our lives; things that could so easily slip by unnoticed and unappreciated.

The lyrics to the chorus “Count Your Blessings” provide useful reminders of the value generated by engaging in the exercise to generate a list of the things that we should be grateful for. As simple and insignificant as it may seem, such an activity can enhance our mental and emotional well-being. It can often be refreshing and reassuring to reflect on the many good things that still exist even as we face some of the most daunting experiences. Modern research in positive psychology confirms that focusing on things that we should be grateful for reduces stress, improves mood, and encourages a sense of inner peace. Such positive feelings encourage the propensity to have a better outlook on life.

With very little effort, we can all easily find things to gripe and complain about. It seems to demand a more concerted effort to be positive. The attitude of gratitude ignites the ability to be more appreciative even of our most dire circumstances. Such an approach can generate greater empathy and compassion. The ability to redirect our focus to better appreciate life’s challenges and disappointments can ignite warm feelings that strengthen relationships within our homes, workplaces, and the wider community.

The example of the famous American hymnwriter Fanny Crosby (1820-1950) readily comes to mind. She was six weeks old when she caught a cold and developed inflammation of the eyes. Mustard wrappings were applied to her eyes to treat the discharge. This damaged her optic nerves and subsequently blinded her. With limited educational facilities for individuals with such physical

challenges it may have been expected that such an individual would fade into nothingness; isolated and abandoned in her world of darkness. However, encouragement and assistance from her mother and maternal grandmother enabled her to avoid the temptation to focus on what she had lost and be more focused on developing what she still had left. Fanny Crosby’s fantastic memory and her love for poetry blossomed. She is known to have written over eight thousand (8,000) hymns. She was later known to have said, “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank Him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow, I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.” She was thankful for her blindness.

Fanny’s example reminds us that an attitude of gratitude can inspire resilience as we face some of life’s greatest adversities. When confronted by life’s varied challenges, disappointments, and detours, individuals who sustain a grateful outlook are better able to find the silver linings that enable them to better cope with the hardships and to develop the tenacity to bounce back with gusto. Such individuals testify that their resilience enabled them to navigate life’s inclines and chasms with grace and confidence. They inspire us to do likewise as we discover the wisdom and strength that is generated by the attitude of gratitude. Being thankful can make a world of difference as we go through and beyond our wilderness experiences.

It has been observed that a spirit of generosity often emerges when persons embrace that attitude of gratitude. There seems to be a tendency for thankful persons, even when they have wants and needs, to look for opportunities to share their talents, time, and treasure. Such individuals give selflessly and are often aware that they make a meaningful difference in the world. Their words and actions invariably shine forth like a beacon, rallying others to keep hope alive. Many realize that they have been blessed to be a blessing.

Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BC — 43 BC), the Roman statesman, lawyer, and philosopher reminds us that, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” Even when we experience the greatest of needs, wants, setbacks, disappointments, and losses there is still so much to be thankful for.

Individuals who display an attitude of gratitude very often appear to possess an inner peace even when they are faced with dire circumstances. In their own very special way, people who cultivate a mindset of thankfulness contribute to the creation and maintenance of a more caring, buoyant, and harmonious world.

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

Gonsalves’ Extravaganza

BEGINNING TODAY, SVG will play host to the Eight Summit of Heads of State and Governments of CELAC at Sandals Beaches Resort in Buccament Bay. Coming as it does a mere three months after hosting the Argyle initiative that lowered political and military tensions between Guyana and Venezuela and three years after serving as the smallest country to ever sit on the UN Security Council, diplomatically, SVG can truly be said to be punching above its weight class.

CELAC groups 33 Latin American and Caribbean countries. Only the USA and Canada are denied membership. It was formed in 2011 to counter the American-dominated Organisation of American States (OAS). Cuba’s Fidel Castro and Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez played a crucial role in articulating the aims and goals of CELAC. The organisation was created to deepen Latin American integration and to reduce the influence of the United States on the politics and economics of the Americas.

These events shine a bright light on Gonsalves, providing him with a big stage and large audience to highlight his vision to the region and the world. He lives for these types of events. The tailwind of the stoplight pulls SVG along. The truth is that the glitter shines brightest beyond the border of our nation of 100,000 people.

Most Vincentians view the event with a sigh, if not a yawn, especially as they witness the speed with which much-needed road work and patching are being done. Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves almost strained himself during the February 23 session of parliament, explaining the increase in activity in preparation for the summit.

‘The road repairs being done across the country are not for the benefit of people arriving for the summit. It is inappropriate to suggest that those forming part of the CELAC bill any more than the road being repaired in Calliaqua form part of the CELAC bill or, the roads being repaired in Fair Hall form part of the CELAC bill, or the roads being repaired in the Marriaqua Valley form part of the CELAC bill. So, I think that it would be disingenuous to suggest that it is for the CELAC benefit.’

He admitted that events like the CELAC summit cost taxpayers since there are no grants and loans that a country can derive from being a member. He disclosed that $1.5 million was earmarked in the 2024 budget for the summit. However, any keen observer is bound to conclude that the financial burden of this summit is way beyond that budgeted.

The father and son team famously and frequently contradicts each other. In the parliamentary session, Camillo said the road from Duncan Furniture Store at Buccament to the

Sandals Resort cost $1.7 million.

Three weeks ago, PM Gonsalves listed the cost at $3 million. What’s the actual cost? Is SVG developing a grifter problem?

Finance Minister Camillo

Gonsalves justifies the spending by pointing to the global spotlight that shines on SVG. He offered up our country’s seat on the UN Security Council in 2000. ‘The benefits that we have attained and achieved are apparent to those willing to take the time to look because there is a correlation between our own activism and some of the advancements that we have enjoyed in recent years, but it is not our place to put a costbenefit analysis of that nature on those investments.’

No one can deny the feel-good moment of the nation’s elevation to the UN Council. But too much cannot be made of it. Gonsalves spoke of benefits ‘attained and achieved’ but pointed to none. Truth be told, it’s difficult to identify a single tangible benefit that touches and concerns the vast majority of citizens.

Interestingly, Ellsworth John, our nation’s ambassador to Cuba, said that our country gets numerous benefits from hosting the CELAC summit. One reads his comments in vain for what the benefits might be.

Clearly, Sandals is the big winner here. By housing the presidents and prime ministers from over 20 countries, it gets a significant financial boost even before it officially opens. Other hotels also make some money as delegates from across the region cannot all stay at Sandals. Some governments may go for the cheaper hotel rates.

The nation benefits from the neoliberal economic concept of trickledown. Road cleaners, truckers, taxi drivers and others who might have been unemployed make a few dollars as the government prepares to host the event. However, the Spectacle at Buccament will come and go with little or no impact on the nation’s economy or the people.

Gonsalves is the primary beneficiary. He gets yet another trophy for his highly decorated mantle piece. He is a grand master of both statecraft and stagecraft. Expect him to use the CELAC summit to jump to the next big event, possibly the general elections. For those who allowed him to rule over the country for the last quarter century, they get the opportunity to sit back and ask, what’s in this for me and my children?

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

Doing business in SVG: Concerns with the Director General

DURING2023 we registered a company in SVG to support the government’s plan outlined in their Energy Policy dated March 2009 and the Action Plan dated April 2010. These documents outline the government’s plans to reduce SVG’s dependency on fossil fuels. When I read these documents, I was excited, because I saw this as an opportunity to provide support to the government and my people, by endeavoring to provide those mechanisms in support of these policies.

Registration of Company

In 2023 I registered my company called Blue Block Investments. Following the registration, I requested Dutyfree concessions through Invest SVG and spoke to several representatives there, including Mr. Glen Beache, the person in charge. I was told the request should take 7 days for approval or disapproval, after being voted on by the Cabinet. The request was submitted on 9 Dec 2023 in coordination with Invest SVG who assisted in crafting

the request. Thanks to Shanna Browne one of the officers in Invest SVG.

After 7 days in Dec., I was told they needed additional information from the Energy Department. An additional 7 days passed upon which I was told the Cabinet would finally vote on my request, after receiving whatever information was needed from the Energy Department. Another 7 days passed, and then I was told because the cabinet had to pass the SVG budget it would be delayed.

Another month passed transitioning to 2024. During January, I was told by a representative of Invest SVG that someone in the Finance Department stated that I needed to redo the letter and make it more of a request. I informed them the title of the Document was “Request” Duty-free concessions and was already a courteous letter. I stated I would be more than happy to rewrite the request if they would outline what they meant by making more of a Request document when it was already written in this

fashion.

Another 2 weeks went by with more delays. I was then contacted by an Invest SVG representative stating that Mr. Edmond Jackson, the Director General, wanted to have a Zoom call to discuss my request. I gladly accepted and the Zoom call was scheduled for Feb 16th at 10:00 SVG time. I logged on at 10:00 SVG time only to be told that he was in a meeting. I said I would wait, but that meeting never occurred.

As a Vincentian citizen, I am very concerned about how business is done in SVG. I am a staunch supporter of governments that support their people like this one. I admire the current PM and what he has done thus far, especially with the construction of the Airport, infrastructure improvements and the soon-to-be-opened Sandals Resort that will boost tourism. I admire his vision in ensuring SVG remains a country of blue waters and green forests with his clearly outlined Energy Policy/ Strategy and

Action Plan, which is why I wanted to start this company.

Sad, no longer interesting

Sadly, a process that I was told would take 7 days has now extended for 3 months with no answers in the negative or positive. I would love to say I am the exception and not the rule when it comes to engaging in governmental processes on the island, unfortunately, this is not the case after speaking with several business owners on the island. I believe there are officials in place who do not support our Prime Minister with the appropriate professionalism necessary to bring business to SVG, and so doing improve the economy and provide jobs and training in support of our people.

Sadly because of this experience, I will be

withdrawing my request to start our company that I believe would have provided jobs, and appropriate resources in support of SVG’s Energy Policy to transition the country from dependence on fossil fuel which will in the end ruin our beautiful country.

I humbly request that our Prime Minister whose initiatives I support, take a hard look at who is appointed to run the various departments in support of his initiatives.

God bless SVG and our people.

Jerome A.M. Jackson, MHA, MMS, CSP, BA  LtCol USMC, Retired

Editor’s Note: This concern was accompanied by a copy of the referenced Request for Duty Free Concessions, etc.

Goat Meat

by Anthony Stewart, PhD

OUR FASCINATIONwith goat meat is warranted as it is the best meat among the common meats that are consumed. According to Google, it is naturally lean, very nutritious and has a range of health benefits. The meat has less fat, less saturated fat, more iron, and about the same amount of protein compared to beef, pork, lamb, or chicken. The overall fat content of goat meat is lower than other red meats, therefore, it provides fewer calories.

Visual Arts

Celebrating Vincy Women Artists

MARCHis here! The month we traditionally celebrate women.

We celebrate women because we know they are the backbone of our country. They play a key role in the community.

First and foremost, women are caretakers. They perform the role of mother, wife, partner, organizer, breadwinner, disciplinarian, teacher, director and activist; in short, they wear many hats.

It follows, therefore, that women are very special people who deserve to be respected and celebrated not only during the month of March, but every day of the year. Let us strive to be a society where women are always respected and cherished.

YAF plays it part

For the past four years, Youlou Art Foundation (YAF) has been making an effort to celebrate women artists in the community during the month of March. This year there are plans to

acknowledge women creatives. Three women artists have been invited to show their work at the Youlou Art Gallery. They are Alana Hudson, Zen Punnett and Mya Pope. These artists will be showing their work from March through the end of August.

To honour these three women, the gallery has planned an opening reception on Saturday, March 2 from 6-8 pm at the Youlou Art Centre, Indian Bay. During the reception there will be music in the form of drumming, light refreshments will be served and drinks will be on sale. The opening is free and open to the public.

Another event planned during the month of March is a craft fair for women craft makers. The craft fair will take place on Saturday and Sunday, March 9 & 10 from 2 pm to 6 pm, at the Youlou Art Centre. Several crafters have been invited to show and sell their work and patrons can look forward to viewing and purchasing, among other items, locally made skin care products, crochet items,

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embroidery, jewelry, clothing and accessories, throw pillows, decorations for the home and condiments locally made. To be sure, there will be something for everyone.

‘Sip and Paint’

The need for women to bond and form community is vital. Youlou Arts continues to offer women opportunities to do just that.

This year during the month of March we are inviting women to form their own group to have a “Sip & Paint” event at the Centre at a reduced rate.

To do this, there must be a group/party of at least 5 people to have this event. Call the Centre and book a “Sip and Paint”. It’s a wonderful opportunity for women to come together, and relax, while making art.

“Vincy” people show your support!

In order to make progress we need to support each other.

These planned activities will be taking place at the Youlou Art Centre, Indian Bay. The public is invited. Contact us for more info. Tel: 784 457 4493/WhatsApp: 784 497 7811; Email: youlouartcentre@gmail.com.

Women of SVG, it’s time to rise up and bring about change. Come together and form a community. We are stronger when we come together.

Contributed by Camille Saunders-Musser Youlou Arts Foundation

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always been about protecting its insured and their dependents during the loss of income, there is a greater need to offer more support to the indigent and the at-risk-of-poverty groups. This is evident through the responsible social programmes the NIS has implemented over its 37 years of operations to uplift the lives of the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

the NIS would like to remind more

renewal its valued

the lives ted programmes le social

The NIS thanks the 7362

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NIS processes, the forts enhan ef

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This increase in the minimum pension from $70.00 to $80.00 per week represents a 14 per cent increase for some pensioners. About 2239 persons will benefit from this measure, including Normal Age Pensioners, Invalidity Pensioners and Survivor’s Pensioners.

Additionally, the NIS would like to remind its valued pensioners that the deadline for renewal of life certificates was January 31st. The NIS thanks the 7362 pensioners who have submitted their life certificates. However, there are 2099 who are at risk of experiencing a temporary pause on their pension payment.

who are at risk of

are asked

service.

2024. This , 1 fective March financial where customers, Mr. ef and continued to the NIS to ensure details to sioners Accordingly, ffficient service pt

s Pensioners. ’from accounts. Our valued

Director of the NIS, Mr

Survivor Pen Normal .

Director of the NIS, Mr. Stewart Haynes, said whilst social security systems have

In efforts to enhance the administrative processes, the NIS is transitioning from paying benefits by cheques to direct deposit Accordingly, all customers, including pensioners currently paid by cheque, are asked to provide their bank or credit union account details to the NIS to ensure timely payments and continued prompt and efficient service. Mr. Haynes, in an earlier release, assured customers, especially pensioners, that where they do not have an account with a financial institution, the NIS would assist in facilitating the opening of one. Since then, over 140 pensioners have provided their account information. However, 447 pensioners from our 9,300 pensioners are encouraged to establish bank or credit union accounts. Our valued pensioners are asked to do so as soon as possible to prevent

31 ourofffficesub

these pensioners are asked

They can do so by visiting immediately

A call a video a do not

of valid form

- fice, sub our of -

Consequently, these pensioners are asked to renew their life certificates immediately. They can do so by visiting our office, submitting a notarized Life Certificate form or placing a video call via WhatsApp to 1(784) 456-1514. A valid form of identification is needed to complete the process.

the best service and will continue remains committed to NIS The

practices its business

The NIS remains committed to providing the best service and will continue working towards enhancing its business practices to serve customers better. We express gratitude to all of our customers who have been understanding during this time.

account information. However are asked bank or credit union - are encour -pension , their one. Since then, understanding of our customers who to all to serve customers better have e express W.

Jazz at Sunset sold out

Bear in mind that the JTP philosophy, as this reviewer understands it after deep association with the ensemble, centers on original composition, creativity in musical arrangement, sensitive improvisation and integrity to music as an art form. JTP is not overly concerned with ratings and competition. Indeed, there is no need to be so preoccupied, particularly in the face of wide acceptance and an ever expanding all age fan-club!

Springing pleasant surprises

by MARALYN BALLANTYNELLB. Hons.

THE FEBRUARY PRE-VALENTINES

EDITION of Jazz@Sunset, sold out several days before the event, remains on the minds of fans as an epic celebration of love. Living it added more spice to the exciting Vincy music landscape.

But there will be more as fans can now prepare to come out on Sunday, March 24th 2024, to enjoy another chapter of this beloved monthly Jazz Tropical Project event, led by passionate musician Dexter Rose, former SVG diplomat and journalist.

Continuing the Mood

The February edition of Jazz@Sunset came mere days after the Basil Charles Foundation Blues Festival, where an international posse of accomplished musicians, including guitarist par excellence Dennis Jones performed at the same venue, Basil at Villa; and so, music lovers were fresh from the output of very accomplished music makers.

Jazz Tropical Project- JTP- kept the music playing, clearly demonstrating that local musicians and musical productions do stand up to international standards.

A golden sunset signaled start time. The strains of JTP magic slowly and gently permeated the air while couples toasted each other, lovers reaffirmed, whispering soothing words, mystery and romance dominated. Even those who remain skeptical about the love thing were moved in one way or the other.

This reviewer is encouraging JTP to keep in place as they did a sort of ritual by opening with a gospel song.

The ensemble opened with keyboardist vocalist Juan Carlos Cepeda’s soulful rendition of the Jonathan Butler song ‘We need you Lord’, to much appreciation by the rapidly growing crowd of Jazz@Sunset patrons.

Then JTP sprung two impressive firsts! Dexter introduced Toronto-born Latvian descendant, Maia KuzeDougan, who sings in various languages including French, Spanish and English; she was welcomed as a Vincy woman in the local community, and then came young Vincy music icon, Saeed Bowman, who was invited to display his artistry on pan.

JTP makes deliberate efforts to showcase Vincy talent, by generously including other musicians on their JTP stage. XTA-C, a new vibrant band was featured late last year as was veteran Ken Isles and the Bequia-based duo Louis and Jan.

Maia delighted the house with her engaging style; here is an experienced

singer who has been formally trained and her renditions were fitting testimony. She delivered a unique “Fly Me To The Moon”, “Besame Mucho” in Spanish, “Autumn Leaves” in French and did not stop there, if only because Cole Porter’s “Let’s Do It” and the famous “My Funny Valentine”, were too apt to be omitted a mere days before February 14.

By then the standing room only audience had put on dancing shoes and the versatile JTP treasure, Juan Carlos Cepeda, fully aware, burst into a rousing Latin ballad. The mood altered from intimacy to sheer exuberance.

Keeping the flame ablaze as a sense of duty, Maia reappeared with the Pointer Sisters hit “Fire”, but only after dedicating a special song to all female attendees, the song “Cry Me A River”, how compassionate and full of empathy Maia was, displaying great vocal skills gained from her formal classical vocal training at Humber College and York University, and a visible selflessness. She earned herself an encore!

The entire JTP JAZZ@SUNSET preValentines performance, can best be described as delivering gems and memories to all, given the range of offerings…from earthy to partially gritty, emotional, soulful, heartfelt, even at times slightly cloaked in pain. But mainly thoroughly joyful without a doubt, a throwback to the golden years of live Vincy entertainment, when Bobby Brisbane presided over his Crow’s Nest, Ricky Hillocks over his Rick’s Discotheque and, Dr. Edgar Adams over his various clubs, Stilly Fraser over the Aquatic Club, and his brother Ken Boyea, over his Attic Jazz Club.

JTP seems bent on reviving the best in Vincy music which Earl “Big C”

Stephen in a Facebook comment dubbed music with “more than a Touch of Class”.

The Jazz Tropical Project (JTP) in full dance mode.

Saeed Bowman, pannist extraordinaire, was a ‘perfect’ fit to the March Edition of Jazz@Sunset.

Maia Kuze-Dougan thrilled the audience delivering ‘standards’ in a seamless transition through English, Spanish and French.

Patrons took to their feet in spontaneous movements to the infectious sounds of the JTP.

THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES POLICE FORCe (RSVGPF) in collaboration with the National Commission on Crime Prevention (NCCP), the Pan against Crime Committee (PAC) and the Police Band presents The Pan against Crime (PAC)

16th Anniversary Concert under the theme “Play a Pan. Arrange a Song. Build the Mind. Down with violence and crime.”

The event will take place on Sunday March 03rd 2022, at the South Rivers Playing Field, commencing at 5:00 p.m.

Pan Against Crime celebrates 16 years

The Pan against Crime initiative was conceptualized by Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security in conjunction with the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force. The initiative was launched on February 20, 2008, to use the steel pan instrument to engage young people to steer them away from criminal activities.

During the concert, remarks will be delivered by the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Enville Williams, Assistant Commissioner

of Police — Mr. Christopher Benjamin, Chairperson of the Pan against Crime Committee and a representative from the SVG Police Cooperative Credit Union. The featured address will be

delivered by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves.

Other activities will include: A praise and worship segment; The official launch of the Overland, Chapmans,

Park Hill, and Diamonds Police Youth Clubs; Entertainment package by the Police Band, Epic Sounds Steel Orchestra, Symphonix Steel Orchestra, and Ms. Shaunelle Mc Kenzie.

(Source: RSVGPF)

Taiwan supports Agriculture in SVG

THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN)

Ambassador Fiona Huei-chun Fan and Honorable Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Rural Transformation, Industry and Labour, cohosted the presentation of “Backyard Gardening and Climate Smart Agriculture Program” and donation ceremony.

Mr. Donawa Jackson, Representative of CARDI, Mr. St. Clair DaSantos, Principal of North Union Secondary School (NUSS), government officers, and more than 400 students of the NUSS attended the event.

Ambassador Fan and Minister Caesar handed over the trays of

seedlings as well as seed packs at the North Union Secondary School on 27 February, 2024.

Ambassador Fan emphasized the 43-year-long friendship between Taiwan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with a significant focus on collaborative efforts in the agricultural sector. The ongoing project, “Improving Vegetable Cultivation Management and Post-harvest Handling Project,” aims to bring innovation and improvement to the field, pledging to minimize agricultural product losses through cutting-edge techniques.

A key highlight of the initiative is the seed donations provided to all participants. Ambassador Fan stressed that these seeds represent not just potential crops but a brighter and more sustainable future. Participants, whether seasoned farmers or aspiring agriculture students, were encouraged to leverage these seeds to their fullest potential.

Minister Saboto Caesar expressed his gratitude to Taiwan’s substantial contribution, adding that education not only equips people with needed skills and knowledge, but also gives them a brighter prospect in their career opportunities. He said that the ongoing project and agriculture program provided by Taiwan will train local farmers and workers, and will help Saint Vincent and the Grenadines grow a stronger economy.

Minister Saboto Caesar added the concept of backyard gardens, and

envisioned transforming spaces into thriving gardens contributing to community food security. These gardens, conceived as living laboratories, offer participants a practical application of the skills acquired through the project.

Addressing the young agriculture enthusiasts, Ambassador Fan emphasized their role as active participants in shaping the future of agriculture. She urged them to view themselves not just as witnesses but as contributors to the transformative project. The knowledge gained, she emphasized, will be instrumental in building a sustainable and thriving agricultural community.

In a heartwarming gesture, Ambassador Fan extended her commitment beyond agriculture by donating sports items, including soccer balls, basketballs, and sports T-shirts, to North Union Secondary School. This generous gift not only enriches the students’ recreational activities but

H.E. Fiona Huei-chun Fan, Taiwan’s Ambassador to SVG, underscored her country’s support for programmes aimed at bringing innovation and improvement to agriculture in SVG.

also underscores the broader scope of collaboration between Taiwan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The event reached its pinnacle with Taiwan Technical Mission’s Leader, Mr. Chun-Heng Lin, and specialist, Mr. Yi-Yang Shen, demonstrating vertical cultivation methods in the backyard garden. Minister Caesar and Ambassador Fan symbolically transplanted a seedling, signifying the enduring friendship and future collaborations between the two nations. (Source: Embassy of the ROC — Taiwan)

(Photos compliments Embassy of Taiwan)

Ambassador Fan and Minister Saboto Caesar transplanting a seedling to symbolize the friendship between Taiwan and SVG.

In addition to seedlings, the donation also included seed packs.

UWIGC extends application date for Short Courses

The University of the West Indies Global Campus (UWIGC) St. Vincent and the Grenadines is giving persons another opportunity to apply for the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) short courses.

Former student Lucinna Poyer said she had no regret signing up for a CPE course.

With the new deadline date being Friday March 8, 2024, interested persons can again select from some 18 courses.

According to Acting Marketing Assistant Sheron Garraway, there have been numerous requests for the extension and the UWI Global Campus is facilitating the appeal.

Garraway said that Vincentians have been continually making strides to upgrade their academic qualifications which will ultimately improve their lives as skilled persons. She noted that over the years, more females have been registering than males, but that males have also been stepping up to garner knowledge.

Garraway also praised the various companies who have invested in their staff by paying for their employees to do CPE courses. She said, having well trained staff improves the efficiency of operation in these companies.

CPE courses take 10 — 13 weeks to complete and are EC$600.00 per course.

Upon graduation, students will receive certification in their area of study.

Applicants are required to bring to the UWIGC office, their birth certificate, any form of photo ID, and copies of academic qualifications.

CPE courses are available in: Introduction to Events Management; Foundations of Records Management; E-Commerce in Modern Business; Business Writing and Communication 1 & 2; Occupational Health and Safety; Managing People Effectively; Finance for Decision Makers; Managing Conflict in the Workplace; Managing Projects for Success; Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management; Procurement Management; Introduction to Digital Marketing; Health Care Management; Introduction to Facilities Management; Introduction to Property and Real Estate Management; Advanced Counselling SkillsWorking with the Adolescents; Public Relations Management and Care of the Elderly (Blended course: Face-to-face & online)

To apply click on to:

https://global.uwi.edu/admissions/cpe

For more information email: svg@open.uwi.edu

or lecia.quow@open.uwi.edu

Telphone: (784)-456-1183 or 485-6606

Sheron Garraway UWIGC Marketing Assistant Acting.

Businesses to benefit from a workshop

BUSINESSoperators and potential business owners in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be sensitized about the ins and outs of doing business through a virtual workshop next Tuesday 5 March.

The training, “Unpack the OAS Women’s Economic Empowerment Business Formalization Toolkit”, is designed to empower women-led and owned businesses in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The toolkit was created under the OAS WEE Project for each participating Eastern Caribbean country and was launched last November.

This toolkit is a roadmap designed to empower women to make informed decisions for themselves and their businesses when it comes to key matters such as registering a business, social security, inland revenue, financial business accounts, bookkeeping vs accounts, among several other important considerations for MSMEs seeking success and growth in the region. It consists of information from specific organizations such as the Centre for Enterprise Development Inc. (National Focal Point for the OAS WEE project), the Commerce and Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), National Insurance Services (NIS), National Development Foundation (NDF), Invest SVG, SVG Bureau of Standards, the Inland Revenue Department, the Department of Industry and the Farmers Support Company.

According to CED Training & Education Coordinator, Miss Keisha Phillips, although the project is women focused, the Business Formalization Toolkit is for anyone who is in business or aspires to start their own business.

“We at the Centre for Enterprise Development Inc. want to appeal to both males and females to use this Business Formalization Toolkit because it is basically a know-how tool that provides up-to-date information that you need when operating a business in SVG. It will be a very informative session and so we also

Miss Keisha Phillips, CED Training & Education Coordinator, assured that the Business Toolkit is for both active business people and those looking to start up their own businesses.

want to encourage our youths who have an interest in entrepreneurship to be a part of this training.”

The training takes place on Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 and interested persons can visit CED’s pages on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn to register, or contact CED for more information at 451-2235/6 Extension 210 or register at: https://bit.ly/49py3ZZ.

The Formalization Toolkit are available at: https://wee-msmeclearinghouse.com/.

In August, 2022, the Organization of American States (OAS), through its Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (SEDI), launched the “Economically Empowered Women for Equitable and Resilient Societies” (Women’s Economic Empowerment–WEE) project, which is being implemented in six countries of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) (Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines). The project aims to build the capacity of women-led small enterprises to digitize, build an online presence, and access financial services and international markets through e-commerce.

SEDI is implementing the project with the funding support of the Permanent Mission of the United States to the OAS and Meta, and in partnership with the participating OAS member states, the Centro Regional de Promoción de la MIPYME (CENPROMYPE), and the InterAmerican Commission of Women (CIM). The initiative will benefit 18,000 women in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras and the Eastern Caribbean region. (Source: CED)

Your son is priority

Dear George,

MY SONis 13 years old and is refusing to go to school.  He has recently started using obscenities at me and comes home when it is dark. I cannot even ask him where he is coming from.

My son was never like this. I know his father is not around anymore but that does not give him reason to disrespect me. And he is not respecting my live-in boyfriend either, even though I try to explain that my boyfriend is the man of the house.

My boyfriend wants me to send him away to live with my other relatives but I am not going to do that. George, I need help. I am at a loss as to what to do.

Frustrated.

Dear Frustrated,

I suspect that your son has his own issues dealing with … anger and probably abandonment (from his father), and having to deal with someone who, in his eyes, is trying to replace his father and who does not want him around. All of this could explain his behaviour.

You need to make an effort to understand why he feels the way he feels. Reach out to a counselor to assist you in this effort. Your priority should be your son’s need, not your boyfriend’s.

Sort out things with your son now before you lose him totally.

George.

Sick, worthless, violated ……

Dear George,

MY BOSSasked me to stay back to help him with some filing. It was not the first time but this time, he decided to have his way with me.

His words to me were, “I’m not going to rape you but rather give you a choice. You can either agree to have sex with me or make today your last day of work.”

That said, he began fondling me and eventually I let him have sex with me. What else could I have done? I wanted my job.

Since that day I have

been feeling very sick with myself, worthless, violated, ashamed for allowing him to do that to me. However, I have not told anyone about this but it’s killing me inside.

I do not want to continue working there. I just want that man to know that I will have my revenge, and when I do, it will be his hell to pay.

Feeling Degraded.

Dear Feeling Degraded,

The words you used to describe your present feelings are the very

words a victim of rape would use. What happened to you is not any different from being raped. You did not act of your free will.

I suggest you see a lawyer immediately for advice on how to proceed in accordance with the law. Do not take matters into your own hands. Allow the justice system to handle it. The outcome of this must serve as a warning to bosses not to take advantage of the people whom they manage.

George.

On my way out

Dear George,

ISUSPECTEDmy wife of three months was having an affair with someone very close to both of us but I had no proof. So, I decided to secretly install cameras all over my house and waited to see what would happen.

My worst fears were confirmed when I saw my wife and this same guy making out in our matrimonial bed. The day after that my wife took another man to the house. The next week she was seen making out with the first guy but this time he had another female with her.

George, I do not know my wife. She is not who I thought she was! She has deceived me

completely and I want out. Any thoughts on this?

Fooled.

Dear Fooled, You can seek legal counsel for starters since you have already made your mind up to head for the exit.

This, however does not

mean that your situation is beyond repair. It all boils down to what you think you can live with. If you feel or know you simply cannot live this one down, then it is entirely up to you to cut your losses and try again to find yourself a worthy life partner.

George.

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)

You can get others to do things for you but be sure not to overpay them or lend them money. Do yourself a favor and leave your plastic at home. Work at home if at all possible. Anger might lead to carelessness and minor Injuries.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)

Try to satisfy both of your needs. Put your energy into self-improvement programs that promise to make you into a better you. Accept the inevitable. Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21)

Feeling under the weather may be a result of overindulgence. Uncertainties are still prevailing. Time spent with family, children, or good friends will be regenerating and positive. If you're already in a relationship, use this added energy passionately.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

Don't gamble unless you can afford to lose. You will be ready to jump on anyone who gets in the way of your progress this week. Don't overspend on friends or children. Intellectual stimulation is what you are looking for.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22)

Don't make any unreasonable promises. Make love, not war, and all will be fine. Include the whole family or those you love. You will meet new romantic partners through the company you keep.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)

Travel will turn out to be far more exciting than you imagined. Involvement in fitness clubs will be conducive to engaging roman tic connections. Your need to obtain additional details will lead you into strange topics of conversation.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)

Move forward if you want to turn your life around. You may want to make drastic changes concerning your personal partner. Your talents are likely to be discovered. You need to be around friends and family.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)

Realize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Make changes in your domestic scene. Either way, you're up for a passionate encounter with someone special. Your emotional attitude with respect to your status and direction in society may be unrealistic.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)

You will be able to talk about emotional problems with your partner. Travel will also entice you. Deceit around you is evident. You can pick up information that will give you an edge.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)

Comfort is a necessity. Check your motives. Don't promise to deliver the goods if you aren't positive that you can meet the deadline. Get involved in competitive sports. Friends will appreciate your attention and playful nature. Travel opportunities look positive, but be cautious while driving.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19)

Be sure to double-check the house on your way out. You will need to do a lot of research if you wish to get to the bottom of things. Interaction with colleagues will only be upsetting. Your own small business on the side sounds pretty lucrative.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)

Others may want to steal your thunder when they realize your ideas are pretty solid. Family responsibilities are escalating. Don't let others know about your private affairs. Your uncanny insight will help you make the right choices.

ACROSS

1. Ado

7. Slender-billed game bird

12. Drugged like Sherlock

14. Put together

16. Not a substitute

17. Large land measure

18. Things ___ and do

19. Flat

21. Baseball’s Dykstra

22. Like thrift-shop purchases

24. Porky or Babe

25. Valued

29. Got the message

31. Fly ball’s antithesis

32. Mae of mortgages

33. Ads

34. Snout-nosed and grunting

35. Plane, in a way

36. Performed maintenance on

37. Trigonometry’s law of __

38. Innocent

39. Bering, for one, briefly

40. Angry looks

41. XVII sextupled

42. Troops’ transports

43. Step on

48. Tour group?

50. New Zealand’s region

52. Takes apart, as a bracelet

53. Hospital work

54. Site of London Stansted Airport

55. Dangerous buzzer

DOWN

1. Art Linkletter or Merv Griffin role

2. Capable of performing

3. Slant

4. Desolate

5. Vocal expressions

6. Community gathering

7. Sunni, e.g.

8. Washington MLBer

9. Frozen treat

10. Falcons

11. “Long Road Out of ___” (2007 Eagles album)

13. Clothing store hangers

14. Tot

15. Bank stamp abbr.

20. Performer

23. Comforter stuffing

24. Tentatively schedule (with “in”)

25. De Mille of dance

26. Stipulated conditions

27. Inherent capacities

28. Spoiler or destroyer

29. “Combine” machines

30. List for St. Peter

32. Question from a gift recipient

34. ‘60s Canadian leader

36. Painful indication of indignation

38. Post-sneeze word

40. Computer __

41. “Red, White &

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

___”(2005 rock album)

42. Black cat, to some

44. Bulldoze in Soho

45. “Put a lid ____!”

46. Time pieces, abbr.

47. Knight’s trainee

49. Mold of a kind

51. Studio shout

One Hundred Days to World Cup

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON,and

last week Thursday, February

22, marked 100 days to the start of the historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, to be held in the West Indies and USA from 1 to 29 June.

Last week Thursday, the SVG leg to celebrate this milestone was held at the Heritage Square, simultaneously, barring St. Lucia, with similar events in other venue countries.

A large gathering of citizens, joined in an event that was a carful mix of entertainment and addresses aimed at generating national support for the SVG leg of the ICC World Cup.

Among those entertaining the large gathering were Alston BECKET Cyrus D.Litt, reigning Calypso Monarch Fyah Empress and Soca Artiste Hance.

Addressed were delivered by Minister of Sports Frederick Stephenson and Culture Minister Carlos James, with the feature address by Prime Minister Dr. ralph Gonsalves.

The Prime Minister made it crystal clear that, “I am not looking at cricket World Cup to make profit of the 35 million spent,” instead he

urged Vincentians home and abroad to consider St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ part in this historic occasion as a legacy.

“It is linked to our history, our struggle for selfaffirmation, self-mastering and a continuation of the process of liberation, and I want all of us to embrace this World Cup for a common goal,” Gonsalves stressed.

Dr. Gonslaves urged Vincentians, “to get very enthusiastic about us hosting these games”, saying, “... we need to make our full contribution to uplift West Indies cricket,” and reminded all that, “this region with 5-6 million people dominated world cricket for 15 years from the late 70s,80s,90s. The only other countries to have done so with a bigger population are Cuba in ammeter boxing, Kenya, Ethiopia in long distance running, and Soviet Union and Russia in ice hockey.”

The inflated ball that will become part of the promotion of the historic 2024 ICC World Cup.

instrument of our peoples’ liberation. We have to get the young women and men enthused to the highest level and with cricket World Cup, mothers, fathers, teachers, and the communities have to be there in our numbers.”

The West Indies, who hosted the event in 2010, will host matches at Sir Vivian

Richards Stadium (Antigua and Barbuda), Kensington Oval (Barbados), Guyana National Stadium (Guyana), Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (Saint Lucia), Brian Lara Cricket Academy (Trinidad and Tobago) and Arnos Vale (Saint Vincent and The Grenadines).

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves urged Vincentians to look beyond the money spent to prepare to host the World Cup, for lasting benefits as a people.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be the largest in the tournament’s history with 20 international teams playing 55 matches across nine cities. It is the first time USA will host matches at a T20 World Cup, with 16 First Round matches split between Nassau County International Cricket Stadium (New York), Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium (Dallas) and Broward County Stadium (Lauderhill).

Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN

He went further in his appeal by positing, “Cricket for us is not only a sport, it has been historically an

SVG gets Thumbs Up

WITH LESS THAN 100 DAYS before the historic ICC Cricket T20 World Cup to be held in the USA and the West Indies, one of the venues for the matches, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was given a thumbs up for its preparation thus far.

The assurance came from Andy Atkinson, ICC Pitch and Outfield Consultant and Roland Holder Head of Cricket ICCMT20, during their ICC Pitch and Outfield inspection on Tuesday, February 27th.

Atkinson and Holder were accompanied by local cricket officials including Michael Findlay Coordinator/Head of Mission of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).

The contingent visited the Arnos Vale 1 Playing Field as the match venue as well as the Arnos Vale 2 and Sion Hill playing fields which will be used as practice areas.

The six pitches at the three venues were reconstructed recently in accordance with new specifications from the ICC and Cricket West Indies. And the outfield at Arnos Vale 1 has been chemically treated so as to encourage the growth of the Bermuda grass.

Atkinson and other CWI officials are expected to visit the venues again in a few weeks’ time, but before leaving he said, “We just need to

concentrate on watering the pitches at all of the venues to encourage grass growth. The outfield is coming on fine, so everything is on course and from my side I am confident it’s going to get picked up.”

The Arnos Vale is scheduled to hold three preliminary matches and two qualifiers for the ICC World Cup, with the first match slated for June 13th, 2024.

Newly constructed Arnos Vale 1 pitches.

(L-R): Andy Atkinson - ICC Pitch and Outfield Consultant and Roland Holder, Head of Cricket ICCMT20 (R), on site at Arnos Vale 1.

A large number of people turned out for the ICC World Cup launch at heritage Square, Feb. 22.

SVG cops bronze in ECVA Beach Volleyball

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ pair of Jamaar Cropper and Ronaldo Franklyn had to settle for the bronze in the male category of the 2024 Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Beach Volleyball Tournament at Cul de Sac Bay, Castries, February 23 to 25.

Cropper and Franklyn outdid Adrian Constant and Jamarie James, 2-0 (21-16, 23-21) in the third place play off held on Sunday, to earn their bronze.

The Vincentians faltered in the semi-finals against eventual winners, St. Lucia Team One, comprising Joseph Clercent and Sheldon Descartes. The St. Lucians won 2-0 (21-16, 21-16).

Cropper and Franklyn were coming

off a three-match winning streak.

They had topped Group C, beating St. Lucia Team Two - Darnell Rio

Victor and Darnell Eudoxie: 2-1(20-22, 21-17, 15-13), then offloaded Constant and James, also 2-0 (21-17, 23-21).

Cropper/Franklyn beat Yahn

Florent and Ray Robinson of Dominica 2-0 (21-17, 21-11), to advance to the semi-finals. They ended the tournament with a 4:1 win/loss ratio.

The tale was the reverse for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines female duo of Saquanna Duncan and Shanadia Sylvester, who had one win and four losses.

The Vincentians’ lone win came versus the British Virgin Islands’ duo of Zoe Richards and Makalia Powell 2-

0 (21-13, 21-14).

They were beaten by Grenada’s Thornia Mitchell and Renisha Stafford in the quarter final, 2-0 (21-9, 21-16).

Before that, the Vincentian females lost to Bermuda’s Megan Hands and Hailey Moss 2-0 (21-13, 21-12) as well as to Dominica’s Zahidu Henry and Nyla Edmund 2-0 (21-16, 21-15)

Duncan and Sylvester also saw defeat at the hands of St. Lucia Team One of Chenoa Evans and Denila Prospere 2-0 (21-15, 21-13).

Grenada’s Mitchell and Stafford won the female title, with St. Lucia Team One second and Dominica- third.

St. Lucia Team Two was second in the male segment.

Twelve male teams and ten female teams competed in the three-day tournament.

Blue Marlins retains swim Championships

When the pool at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre was cleared and the points tallied, last Sunday, February

24, 2024, Blue Marlins was declared the winners, having accumulated 1,358 points.

Black Sands Swim Squad (BSSS) registered 1,113 points and the other competition team, Sea Eagles Swim Academy of Barbados- 302 points.

Blue Marlins dominated the 9-10, 11-12 and 13-14 age categories.

Skyla Byron registered 108 points to claim the Girls 9-10, while Saj Caesar took the male segment of that age group.

Belle Adams, 108 points, won the Girls 11-12 and Jadon Hamilton, 101 points, the Boys.

Tayeah St Hillarie claimed the Girls 13-14 and Hazen Dabriel the Boys title, as they checked off 100 and 108 points respectively.

The other individual titles were secured by the BSSS and the Sea Eagle Swim Academy.

BSSS took the Girls Under-8 through Ira Hadley, who registered 88 points; the Girls and Boys 15-and-over, through Kennice Greene and Matthew Ballah respectively. Both earned 93 points.

Blake Graham of the Sea Eagle Swim Academy took the Boys 8 and Under category.

And, there were some double winners, as Hadley and Graham took the 8-and-Under Sprint Challenge championships.

Likewise, Adams and Hamilton were the 9-12 Sprint Challenge champion, with Greene taking the Girls 13and-over.

The other Sprint Challenge

winner was BSSS’ Kenale Alleyne, who was also the holder in 2023.

The Championships which ran from February 22 to 25, were conducted under the aegis of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Swimming Federation.

along with daughters, Cahya and Amiyah, were the standouts at the Sheishin Karate Club’s 11th Open Karate Tournament, held last

Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the auditorium of the West St. George Secondary School.

The Bascombe trio together scalped six titles, with each claiming two.

Bascombes doubles at Karate Tournament

senior Bascombe won the Men’s Kata and Kumite events.

Cayha trumped the 6-8 Mixed Kata, as well as the 7-9 Mixed Kumite, and Amiyah joined in by winning the 11-12 Female Kata and the 11-12 Mixed Kumite.

Liam Bollers champed the 9-10 Male Kata, with Donray Greaves, the lone participant in the Para-kata in that age group.

Meanwhile, Joshua

Greaves secured the 11-12 Male Kata title, while Aaron Mc Donald pipped the 13-15 Male Kata.

Another title went Sheishin’s way, as Jamal Williams won the 16-18 Male Kumite.

The other three titles were secured by members of the Dragon Ryu Karate Club: Mwanza Hypolite - the 9-10 Male Kumite; Ishawn Roache - the 13-15 Male Kumite; and Shannon Joyette - the 16-18

Mixed Kata.

The other competing dojos, were the 5Star School of Karate and the IKD Shotokan Karate Club.

BLUE MARLINS SWIM CLUB retained the Gallagher Invitational Swim Championships.

CLAUDE BASCOMBEJr.

The

Jamaar Cropper (left) and Ronaldo Franklyn.

Ira Hadley – Girls Under-8 Champ.

Blake Graham - claimed the Boys 8 and Under.

Skylar Byron - Girls 9-10 winner.

Claude Bascombe Jr.

Cahya Bascombe Amiyah Bascombe

Pierre and Hooper head Neil Williams stats

ROMANO PIERRE, shot to the top of the batting statistics as the Neil Williams Academy T/20 competition progressed last weekend.

Pierre’s innings 107, took his tally from four matches to 281 for an average of 56.2. It propelled Radcliffe to 230 for 7 in 18 overs. Pierre shared a third wicket stand of 85 with Deron Greaves whose 42 came off 23 balls. Delorn Johnson compounded Victors Two woes with 40 from 16 balls including four sixes and three fours.

Akon Walker 4 for 37 was the main wicket taker for Victors. They reached 28 in their reply wrecked by Kevon James 4 for 7, and Asif Hooper 4 for 9.

Hooper’s display took him to the top of the bowling chart with 15 wickets at 4.73 per wicket.

Desron Maloney is second on the batting chart with 280 runs. His highest is 101.

Michael Joseph, ranks third. He tallies 223 with a top score of 77. That came last weekend, but was not enough for North Leeward.

They fell to Flow Rivals who knocked up 187 for 4 from their allotment.

The Rivals innings was based on a 109 opening stand between Cody Horne 65 and Lindon James 46. Dean Browne polished the innings with 52 off 21 balls. Brown and Daniel McMillan shared a 60 run fourth wicket partnership with McMillan contributing 13.

If there were to be a Man of the Match, Dean Browne will be in contention with figures of 4 for 15.

Jeremy Layne with ten wickets at an average of 8.4 per wicket, is second on the bowling chart. He is followed by Kirton Lavia also with ten wickets at 10.4.

Layne and his Guardian Saints opening partner Vincent Cupid knocked up 239 for the highest opening stand this season.

The best second wicket partnership is between Pierre and Deron Greaves: 113 in 9.3 overs. Shamon Hooper and Desron Maloney with 152 in 11.2 overs have the best third wicket partnership thus far.

Victors One kept their hopes of a quarterfinal spot alive with a 25 run win over Police Two last Saturday at Park Hill. Victors Two reached 135 for 9 off 20 overs. Kieron Cottoy topped the batting supported by Dave Duncan 28 from 40 balls.

Their separation sparked a collapse. Benniton Stapleton 3 for 27 was the chief wicket taker for Police. Shamon Hooper 35 and Dillon Douglas 26 produced a 74 run third wicket partnership. But from 82 for 3 in the sixth over, Police were wrecked by Corby Dabreo 4 for 20 and Luke Wilson 3 for 14 and were dismissed for 110.

North Leeward pulled off a 152 run win over Safe Home Construction Strike Eagles.

The Northern Players reached 214 for 6 with runs from Otis Matthews 57 and Michael Joseph 41. Logan Roberts 3 for 35 was the pick of the bowlers.

Christopher Howe with figures of 6 for 16 ripped the heart out of the Strike Eagles chase. They fell for 62 with Artley Pope 29 being the main form of resistance.

Keegan’s Bequai beat North Windward Volcano by 6 wickets. North Windward scored 213 for 4, Kirton Lavia 42 leading the batting.

Lavia picked up 4 for 23 when Bequia replied, but that made no dent. They replied with 216 for 4. Cosmus Hackshaw 104 and Jarrel Edwards 53 shared a 114 run third wicket partnership to provide the platform for victory.

Regional Cricket Round Up

Windwards leads the pack

The Windward Islands Volcanoes remained unbeaten after three rounds of the Cricket West Indies Four-day Championship.

Their most recent victory came against the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) by 8 wickets at Chedwin Park, Jamaica, last weekend.

The Windwards, with centuries from Sunil Ambris, 120; and Kavin Hodge, 158*, amassed

395 in their first innings. Romario Greaves took 5 for 142 for the CCC, who replied with 204; Demario led with 46 and Darel Cyrus snared 6 for 72.

Following on, the CCC closed on 315: Jonathan Carter 94, Romario Greaves 63; and Damel Evelyn 56. Shamar Springer took 2 for 33.

Windwards eased to victory, losing two wickets before getting to 128 — Alick Athanaze 58* and Jeremy Solozono*.

Meanwhile, Barbados Pride beat Jamaica Scorpions by 4 wickets.

Scores: Jamaica 269R Morrison 97*, Jomel Warrican 5 for 62, and 292 - A Mansingh 54, D Green 48 not out, S Cumberbatch 5 for 46.

THE ARCHERY ASSOCIATIONof

St.

Vincent & the Grenadines (AASVG) got its 2024 programme going last Saturday and Sunday, February 24 and 25, respectively, with a Ranking Tournament.

Held at the compound of the Dolphin Gymnastics Centre, Arnos Vale, nineteen archers tested their skills.

Day One was set aside for qualification in the three categories: 20m, 30m and 50m.

On Day Two, the

Barbados Pride 389 -K

Brathwaite 142, K

Wickham 63, D Green 4 for 78, and 176 for 6. R

Primus 43. P Salmon 3 for 69.

Guyana

Harpy Eagles defeated West Indies Academy (WIA) by 221 runs. Scores: West Indies Academy 162 — Rashawn

Worrel 58, Joshua Bishop 51, Kevin Sintclair 4 for 45, and 207 - Carlton BowenTuckett 65 and Jordan Johnson 57, Isai Thorne 4 for 49. Guyana 175, Joshia James 4 for 43 AND 415 for 7 declaredKevin Sinclair 165*, Kemol Savory 58, Ashmead Nedd 5 for 97.

Leeward Islands

Hurricanes beat

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by 4 wickets.

Scores: Hurricanes 318 — Jewel Andrew 87, Keiran Powell 65, Anderson Phillips 4 for 62, and 165 for 6, Keacy Carty 53, J Andrew 48, Kerry Pierre 4 for 69.

Trinidad and Tobago

Red Force 137, Jeremiah Louis 3 for 38, and 342,

Jyd Goolie 64, Jason Mohammed 49, Rahkeem Cornwall 3 for 68.

Points standing at the end of three rounds: Windwards 36, Leewards and Barbados 24 each, Trinidad and Tobago 15, Jamaica, Guyana and WIA 12 each, CCC zero.

I.B.A. ALLEN

Archery shoots off with Ranking Tournament

tournament moved to the elimination phase.

At the end of competition, Joel Bascombe topped the 20m range, ahead of Naga Devendra, with Teneka Baptiste copping the bronze.

Meanwhile, in the 30m segment, Rayon Clarke took gold; Quincy Primus earned silver and scalping the bronze medal was Marese Burgin.

And, Divya Jiandani outdid the others among the 50m archers, to take gold. Securing silver was Jared Nichols and achieving the bronze was Richol Richards.

Those overseeing the Tournament were:

Sanjay Jiandani, President of the AASVG - the Director of Shooting; Brian GibbsChief; Sorenya Miller — Assistant Judge.

The tournament was part of the rankings system to select the St. Vincent and the

Grenadines team to the Caribbean Development Championships, set for Jamaica later this year.

Sunil Ambris - 120 for Windwards

Kavim Hodge - 158 not out for Windwards.

Kraigg Brathwaite - 142 for Barbados

Kevin Sinclair – 165 not out for Guyana.

Rayon Clarke

Joel Bascombe

Divya Jiandani

Youth charged with murdering baby girl

From Backpage.

Had the police not been able to successfully

solicit the services of a retired mental health person, they would not

have been to interview the suspect. Not having a

psychiatrist in place has caused many a high court case/sentencing to have to be adjourned because accused persons ordered for mental/psychiatric assessment cannot so be so assessed, leaving Judges in with no alternative than to send the accused back on remand.

Police investigations

are also hindered because of the lack of this vital service.

Janae Samuel-Wright is the second infant to have been allegedly killed by a relative.

In May 2023, a monthold infant was said to have been thrown to her death from an apartment building by an adult relative, who was said to have mental issues.

Sunday, 25th February, 2024

S.D.A Church

Barrouallie

Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

DINO ELLIOT WHITE

Friday, 23rd February, 2024

Cathedral of the Assumption

Kingstown Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Thursday, 22nd February 2024 Kingstown

Methodist Church

Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

WINTLEY DELKLYN BAPTISTE

Tuesday, 27th February, 2024

Glad Tidings Tabernacle

Viewing: 12:00 noon

Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Belair Cemetery

Sunday, 25th February, 2024

Kingstown SDA Churchh

Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 12:00 noon

DEBRA LAVERNE NASH

GRETIN NOWELLA JAMES YOUNG

by HAYDN HUGGINS

TWENTY-TWO-YEAR-OLDJeremiah

Samuel of Rose Hall will make his next Court appearance on June 25 on murder and kidnapping charges.

The charges stem from the February 10 slaying of his oneyear-old cousin, Janae SamuelWright.

Samuel has been charged with stealing and carrying away the baby without the consent of her mother, Jonessa Samuel, 19, of Rose Hall. He is also charged with the infant’s murder.

Both offenses were reportedly committed at Rose Hall on February 10.

Samuel, who has been in police custody since February 11, was eventually interviewed by investigators after being examined by a mental health-

related person, not a psychiatrist as would be expected.

The police had held off interviewing him since he had showed signs of mental instability.

Samuel made a brief appearance at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday, February 26. He was unrepresented and was not required to plea to the indictable charges when he stood before Senior Magistrate Colin John.

He was remanded, and the matter was adjourned to June 25 and transferred to the Serious Offenses Court.

Police had reported, following the incident, that Preliminary Investigations revealed that Samuel stole the baby from her home and slashed her throat.

The infant’s body was later

LOTTO JACKPOT WINNER SURFACES

by DAYLE DA SILVA

HAD IT NOTbeen that the ink on the ticket began to fade, Clive John would have probably waited a little bit longer before claiming the jackpot.

John, a 70-year-old retiree from Biabou, is the winner of the January 23 Lotto Jackpot of $430,000.

He won with the numbers 4,7,13,23 and 26 — which he said he has been playing for some time.

For some time since the draw, it was unknown who the lucky jackpot winner was and officials at the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) made an appeal for members of the public to check their

tickets to see if they had in fact won the jackpot drawn on January 23.

According to John, he became overwhelmed when he realized that he was the holder of the winning ticket.

“So, I just put it (ticket) in a safe place until I am ready,” he said.

“Then I got the urge to say, boy, don’t wait too long,” John continued, adding that he noticed that the ink on the ticket had begun to fade.

“I didn’t want to create any problems, so I came in.”

And so, John collected his winnings on February 26 saying that he was pleased to be the winner of $430,000.

But he admitted that he may just be breaking even

compared to the money that he has spent playing games from the NLA.

“I am just getting back some of the money that I spent because if you go all over my house, you would see tickets,” he said.

Some of the tickets, according to John, date to the 1980’s, 1990’s and up to the present day and he said that he does not intend to quit playing.

In terms of the winnings, John jokingly said that he was going to put it somewhere where it could gather moss.

“At my age, I cannot be using money like that,” he said.

discovered about 51 yards from her home and pronounced dead by a medical practitioner.

When the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) processed the scene, items of evidential value were collected, including an instrument suspected to be used to commit the offense.

The baby’s mother is said to be the first cousin of the accused, making the baby his second cousin.

Sergeant Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) is leading the investigation.

The case of Jeremiah Samuel brought into focus once again, the fact that this country has been without the services of a psychiatrist for some time.

Continued on Page 27.

Jeremiah Samuel will have to answer for causing the death of a one-year-old infant.

Clive John (left) and NLA Manager MacGregor Sealey at last Monday’s presentation.