The ‘Splendid Ace’, one of the larger vehicle carriers (Car
that services SVG, remained berthed at the Cruise Ship Terminal for the better part of two and a half days.
by DAYLE DASILVA
AN INVESTIGATION IS EXPECTED to be mounted by the Port Authority into an incident involving a large vehicle carrierMV Slendid Ace - which was damaged while attempting to berth at the Cruise Ship Terminal on November 10.
The carrier, remain berthed at the Cruise Ship Terminal for an unscheduled period, causing a cruise liner to abort a scheduled call at Port Kingstown.
The carrier left Kingstown on Tuesday, November 12 — two days after it was scheduled to depart after, according to information received, striking a port dolphin.
According to information garnered from the internet, a port dolphin is “a berthing or mooring structure that extends above water level and is not connected to the shore or any other structure like a quay wall or jetty. Dolphins increase the berthing surface when aligned with an existing pear or jetty, or they can provide independent mooring points.”
The contact with the port dolphin resulted in a hole in the ship’s hull located about 6 feet above the water line and measuring 4 feet long by 2 feet wide.
The incident resulted in another vessel, a cruise liner, MV Aurora , a cruise ship of the P&O Cruises fleet, with an estimated complement of 3100, having to cancel its port call due to the unavailability of room at the Cruise Ship Terminal to berth.
As the cruise liner was unable to dock, the passengers were forced to remain onboard.
Montgomery Daniel, speaking in his capacity of Prime Minister (Ag), disclosed that a request was made for the cruise liner to have its passengers disembark from an anchored position, however, this was denied and the vessel moved on to its next port, which according to information received should have been St. Lucia.
“The expectation of the visitors and the country is to have activities that can improve the economy of the country, and it is unfortunate that those (cruise ship arrivals) are one of the activities that we have lost,” Daniel said.
The Chief Executive Office of the SVG Tourism Authority, Annette Mark, called the incident very “unfortunate” and said that they did not want the cruise ship to get turned away from Port Kingstown on Sunday; however, they remain ready for the next cruise call scheduled for Friday, November 15, 2024.
She added, “This is an unfortunate situation, but it is an operational issue at the port, and I think that the best person to properly address any questions would be the CEO of the Port Authority.”
Onboard authority and passengers of the ‘MV Aurora’ refused to be ferried to shore from an anchored position.
the cruise liner to berth at the Cruise Ship Terminal.
suffered during the course of time and use.
Fortunately, there were no scheduled calls by cruise liners during the time the vehicle carrier was berthed at the Cruise Ship Terminal.
The incident obviously caused discomfort and even frustration among the cruise ship passenger, and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority issued a statement explaining the incident explain the above.
The statement, inter alia, highlighted that had vehicle carrier not sustained damage, it would have off loaded its cargo and departed Port Kingstown, in time to allow
Meanwhile, Carl James, Chief Executive Officer (Ag) of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority, confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN that the cause of the incident, as of Wednesday, — remained unknown, necessitating an investigation into the matter which he said would allow the Authority “to operate from an informed perspective instead of assuming,” James told THE VINCENTIAN.
James explained that the port that catered to cargo vessels was considerably damaged following the passage of Hurricane Beryl on July 1 this year, added to further deterioration the facility had
According to James, about 40 percent of the facility had been damaged or compromised resulting in some level of uncertainty with respect to the integrity of the wharf at the main port in Kingstown, and its ability to accommodate large vessels resulting in a decision by the Port Authority to redirect the berthing of cargo vessels.
In the vein, vehicle carriers like the ‘Splendid Ace’ and those delivering cargo including building material — lumber, cement and steel — were redirected to offload at either the Cruise Ship Terminal or the port at Campden Park.
James told THE
VINCENTIAN that a Class Surveyor, in this case an NK Class Surveyor, was required to assess the damage and determine the processes involved in repairing the damage to the vehicle carrier.
That individual did not arrive in the country until late on November 11. Once the assessment was completed, a clearance certificate was issued allowing to continue its voyage at sea.
The repairs were conducted by engineers on the vessel, James said.
James contended that there has not been an frequent occurrences of such incidents at ports here, and that much larger ships have docked at the Cruise Ship Terminal without incident.
Editor’s Note: The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Christian Council, mindful of the spiraling rise in crime, especially violent crime and murder, has been moved to make public its concern about that scourge.
THE FOLLOWINGis a release by the Christian Council which was made available to the media on Thursday, 7th November, 2024.
“It is a matter of deep concern that crime and violence has been on the rise in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. As a Christian
Council, we share in the grief and sorrow of those affected by this troubling trend. While we continue to lift our prayers and offer heartfelt homilies, we recognize the urgent need for action that goes beyond spiritual reflection.
The Holy Scriptures remind us that God created humanity in His image, bestowing upon us a dignity that is sacred and inviolable. This dignity is nurtured within the family, the church, and the wider community. Crime and violence seriously erodes this dignity, which then undermines the very foundation of our society. Our
Christian society must therefore respond to the ultimate commandment of God to “Love one another as I have Loved you” (John 13:34) and work together to stop the spread of crime and violence in our beloved nation. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “Love does no harm to a neighbour” (Romans 13:10).
The Christian Council will engage various stakeholders and work with them to address this crisis. Guided by the teachings of Jesus, we seek to promote peace, justice, and reconciliation within our communities. Let us therefore work together to build a
society that reflects the love and compassion of a faithful God.”
The SVG Christian Council, an ecumenical body, is comprised of representation from the Anglican, Roman Catholic and Methodist Churches, and the Salvation Army.
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
SIBRAN ALLEN, a 20-yearold construction worker of Chauncey, who stole his elderly neighbour’s Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) ATM card and used it to empty his (neighbor’s) BOSVG bank account, has escaped a custodial sentence.
Allen made the ‘dash for freedom’ on Wednesday after returning to court following what was according to him, an uncomfortable two days on remand at His Majesty’s Prison.
Allen was instead allowed time to repay the stolen monies to the complainant, Ralph Williams, 85, of Chauncey.
Senior Magistrate Colin John made the Compensation order, in addition to Allen having to pay $1,500 in fines, and receiving a series of suspended sentences for
the offences committed between June 11 and June 23, 2024.
Allen had used the stolen ATM card valued at $15, to make a series of withdrawals amounting to $9,000 from Williams’ bank account, at various BOSVG ATM outlets across the country.
Allen had pleaded guilty to multiple charges of theft, in relation to the transactions, when he initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, November 11, 2024, but Williams begged the court not to send him to prison. He said Allen was his neighbour and sending him to prison would be an embarrassment to the area where they lived.
He asked the court to allow Allen time to repay the money. However, the Senior Magistrate opted to remand Allen for two days, so that he could get a taste of what prison life is like and to tell the
court of his experience when he returns for his hearing.
“We will decide based on what you tell the court, what is the next step,” John told Allen who was unrepresented then.
When Allen returned to court on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, and the Magistrate asked him about his two day prison experience, Allen said, “Very uncomfortable.”
“What was uncomfortable about it?” Magistrate John asked.
“The food, the place where I was sleeping, everything round there is uncomfortable, round there is not for me,” Allen replied.
Attorney Grant Connell who mitigated on Allen’s behalf, commented, “I don’t think he has been in there long enough to experience what round there is all about.”
Connell, though acknowledging that Allen
had breached a high degree of trust, stealing from his neighbor whose home he frequented, asked the court not to impose a custodial sentence.
He disclosed that Allen told him that he worked for $1,600 a month, and that he could pay back the monies, which amounted to $9,015, in installments of $1,000 a month.
The attorney also asked the court to invoke Section 37, Chapter 171 of the Criminal Code which allows for an offender to be discharged without punishment and drew the Court’s attention to the fact that Allen has no previous conviction, is of good character, has expressed remorse, cooperated with the police, and is still relatively young.
“There is still hope for him, he has a future ahead of him, I would not want a criminal record for him, but at the same
SIBRAN ALLEN, the man who used his 89year-old neighbor Ralph Williams’ ATM card to steal Williams’ entire bank account of $9,000, has been advised to use his intelligence meaningfully.
The advice came from Senior Magistrate Colin John when Allen returned to the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, from His Majesty’s Prison, where he was remanded for two days to taste prison life before sentencing.
Allen, a 20-year-old construction worker of Chauncey, had told the court that he graduated with six subjects, including Math and English, with grades from ones to twos, from the St. Martin’s Secondary School.
He then enrolled at the SVG Community College, but discontinued his studies there and got into the field of construction.
(See the Magistrate’s sentencing in accompanying article on this page).
John observed that Allen had gone to the
same Secondary School which he and attorney Grant Connell, who had mitigated on his behalf, had attended.
“You can’t say that you didn’t have an opportunity,” he told the youngster, and noted that given Allen’s reaction in court, he seemed to be an intelligent person.
He advised him to use his intelligence meaningfully and in the interest of his country’s development, and not to embark on a life of crime.
Connell had suggested in mitigation that in cases like this, there should be provisions in the law to garnish an account, or have a debit set up by order of the court, so that the complainant could be assured of getting back his money.
The facts showed that Williams opened an account at the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG) on May 21, 2024, with a deposit of $10,000, and was issued an ATM card
to access the account.
On June 4, 2024, he withdrew $1,000, leaving a balance of $9,000.
He secured the ATM card in his wallet which he placed in his pants pocket. When he got home he hung his pants with the wallet on his bedroom door.
On June 20, wanting to make another withdrawal from the account, he went to the pants to retrieve his wallet and card, only to discover that the card was missing.
He visited the head office of the bank the next day, reported that the card was missing and requested assistance to make a withdrawal.
The Customer Service representative checked Williams’ account and informed him that all of his money was gone, and handed him the receipts showing activities (withdrawal): $400 from the Reigate Branch, Kingstown and $600 from ATM in Mesopotamia on June 11; $1,000 twice from the Kingstown ATMs on June 12; $2,000 at the ATM in Kingstown
on June 13; $2,000 from the Layou ATM on June 14 and $2,000 also at the Layou ATM on June 15.
On June 23, Williams reported the matter to the Questelles Police Station and handed them the receipts of the savings account from the bank. A statement was recorded from him, as well as the bank, and the police made an application to obtain footage captured by the ATMs. The footage showed photos of the suspect who was recognized to be Sibran Allen of Chauncey.
He was arrested and charged, and gave a statement admitting to the offences. He stated that he frequented Williams’ home since he was small, and assisted Williams around the house. He added that he found the card in the yard, went to the ATM and withdrew money twice. He then took the card to Williams’ home and June 12 he returned to Williams’ home, took the card and made several other transactions.
time, he must know that this act of savagery, by emptying an old man’s (bank) account cannot be entertained,” the lawyer contended. He expressed the view that there were no aggravating factors for the offence of the offender.
Prosecutor Devon Bute, in response, said he had prepared something from the guidelines and wondered whether Connell was doing his work for him, as Connell’s submissions and his had several similarities.
without punishment, and it is only applied to people of a particular age group, and in certain circumstances.
However, Bute said that what Connell failed to mention was that there was a degree of planning and that while Connell said that Allen had expressed remorse, he (Bute) did not hear him express remorse to the court.
Bute also disagreed with Connell that Section 37 of the Criminal Code should be applied. He said that section deals with being discharged
He said the defendant should not be allowed to “Just walk out of the court,” for an offence of this nature.
But the Magistrate after listening to the submissions from both sides, in addition to applying the law, and the sentencing guidelines, opted for a non-custodial sentence.
He did not agree that Section 37, Chapter 171 of the Criminal Code was applicable to this case.
TWO MALE secondary school students, ages 17 and 18, will appear at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court next Tuesday, November 19, in connection with an incident in Kingstown on November 7.
The students are charged with that without lawful excuse, had in their possession an offensive weapon, to wit, a knife. They pleaded not guilty during a brief appearance at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, as the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court where the matter was slated for hearing was not sitting.
The matter was adjourned to the following day, as the prosecutor Renrick Cato indicated that the office of Director of Public Prosecutions would have to instruct him on how to proceed.
However, on the boys’ return to the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday, it was further adjourned to next Tuesday, and transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.
Attorney Grant Connell is representing the students, as a friend of the court.
Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Connell questioned why the students were brought before the court in the first place, if the matter had to be first brought to the DPP’s attention to determine whether a charge should be laid.
OUT OF A TOTAL ENROLLMENT of 203 students at the Union Island Secondary school, sixty-eight of those who are receiving instructions at the refurbished Old Teachers Training College at Arnos Vale, will each receive a handout of $300.00, to assist with their upkeep.
The hand of assistance comes from the MRI group, comprised of Vincentians home and abroad and spearheaded by home-based businessman Keith Boyea and Financial Consultant Andre Iton, and New York-based Dionne Harry.
The group, which has been making donations to charitable/worthy causes here for the last ten years or so, raises the funds its donates through a single annual
major event dubbed, ‘Carnival Escape, an allinclusive Carnivalrelated event.
This year, the event was held on June 30, one day before Hurricane Beryl made its Vincentian incursion.
One of the places that experienced the full wrath of the hurricane was Union Island, resulting in the displacement of residents, including primary and secondary school students.
Efforts to rebuild lives and livelihoods in Union Island are ongoing, and the measure taken by the MRI Group speaks to a commitment to that cause.
Iton reflects on the plight students face as a result of their displacement and regards the handing over
as “our attempt to lend some support.”
He admits that it is not the ideal way to overcome the issue, and that tackling the problem should begin earlier.
He looks at this intervention as a “pilot” project.
Those among the sixty-eight students who are recipients of the assistance and who are preparing for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) 2025 exam, will receive additional assistance in the form of additional classes in Mathematics. The Group will pay teachers for after school instructional hours.
Iton notes low grades regionally in Mathematics and English.
Deondro John expressed thanks on behalf of her schoolmate recipients.
This latest demonstration of assistance to a worthy cause follows on previous ones made by the group to, among others, the Kingstown and Georgetown Schools for Children with Special Needs, the National Society of and for the Blind, and the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital by way of assisting with the procurement and upkeep of a CT-Scan machine for that institution. (WKA)
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
THE NOVEMBER 5,2024 presidential election in the United States of America (USA) was an emphatic reminder for those countries where free and fair elections are still allowed, that the stakes of any election are high and the results that often defy logic, can be brutal for those who find themselves on the losing end.
For Kamala Harris, on a quest to become the first black female president of the world’s economic and military power house, her campaign’s insistence on over-highlighting the meanderings, the lapses in cognitive balance, racist and sometime violent rhetoric of Donald Trump, backfired in the harshest way imaginable.
This is, in itself, a lesson for all political strategists, home and abroad.
When one reflects on Harris’ situation, one can recall with the case of Arnhim Eustace, who was handling the leadership of the incumbent NDP when it was at its lowest level of popularity.
Harris like Eustace, inherited an administration that was at its lowest level of popularity and lacking in any real dynamism, it appeared, to match the opposition that had morphed during this time.
Granted, when the NDP accepted that Mitchell was no longer at its helm, like Harris when her Democrats had excised Joe Biden from the presidential ticket, Eustace like Harris tried to consolidate what was left of the NDP.
Harris concentrated on an appeal to the women vote which we now know failed to materialize in victory for her.
The point is, she never in effect buried Biden’s ghost, never effectively removed herself from his shadow, and in the long run failed to convince the voters that she was about to turn a new page in the Democrats return to the presidency.
Unfortunately for her, she was unable to make a clean break from the last four years, and if she tried, she failed to separate herself from Biden’s low rating as far as his stewardship of the economy was concerned. In effect, it appeared, she held on to Biden too closely.
This was no different from what Eustace and the NDP tried and failed to accomplish in the 2001 general elections, and which marked the beginning of an extended period for them in opposition, if not political
abeyance.
Further to Eustace’s detriment was the fact that Mitchel chose to remain a backseat instigator, pulling the strings that controlled strategy. Eustace failed to extricate the new party from the old, and fell flat in the face of a new dispensation.
In Harris’s case, Biden simply hung around too long; he should have exited the presidential race much sooner, which would have allowed for a primary by the Democrats, which might not have made a difference as far as who would have won but would have assured Harris a much more confident platform.
So there she was, like Eustace who led a party in 2001 that appeared short on confidence and definitely short of a relevant campaign strategy, deciding that the women vote was going to usher her into the presidency of the USA, only for her to be sadly reminded that the issue of abortion/women’s was not the pivotal issue on which the election would be decided.
What then were women concerned about?
According to a survey of female voters conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, and published on October 11, the top issue that emerged for women voters overall was inflation, including rising household expenses. Perhaps Harris was not aware of this survey.
And even more telling was that according to a preliminary national exit poll conducted by data provider Edison Research, 31 percent of voters said the economy mattered most in shaping their decision to vote whereas 14 percent cited abortion.
Talk about misreading a situation? Or was it a case of simply being misinformed? Then again, was the outcome of the 2024 USA Presidential Election a reflection that at the bottom of every election in America is RACE?
The next general election here is not far off. The opposition is busying itself highlighting what it sees as the failings of the ULP, e.g. failure to tackle the surging crime, and the rising cost of living.
Question: Is an early preponderance on a handful of issues enough to swing the vote? Harris learned the hard way. Nuff said.
FORGIVE MEif I am not excited about the amendment to the Representation of the People Act (RPA) that will allow some low and middlelevel government employees to participate in general elections. Without carbon dating myself (before Independence), I remember my Biology teacher, Mr. Eddie Griffith, was allowed to register and run for a seat in Kingstown while teaching at St. Martin’s Secondary School.
After forty-five years of independence, the best we can come up with is to allow some educators and middle-level government employees the right to offer themselves for service to our country. We are proud to do the minimum. For proposing this amendment, we now think of ourselves as change agents. I do not know what has motivated the ruling party to make this move today. I will not comment on the speculation that they are doing so to facilitate someone from the government employee pool to run on their ticket. I don’t care. After all, winning has consequences.
I will not be too hard on the opposition for supporting this minimalist attempt at reform. After all, the most notable victims of this law were the three teachers back in 2010 on the NDP ticket. We all know their story; some may even sympathize with their plight. This proposed change may have helped them if it was in place. I am here today to say that this change will not do much for our people because after it becomes effective, we will still be stuck in a system where buying a politician will be easier than becoming one. That’s why some say service to our people is now a business, not a calling. Take the words of the recently named North Leeward candidate, Dr. Kishorn Shallow. When asked why now, he said he had to wait until he had everything in place to care for himself and his family before declaring his intentions and party of choice. Who can blame him? History is full of people who did not wait and the consequences they suffered.
I am saying today that to effect positive change, we need to have a more deliberate action plan. We cannot just tinker around the edges of election reform if we hope to make a difference and empower the brightest and best
among us to enter this life of sacrifice for the nation. The changes proposed by the PM, Dr. Gonsalves, and supported by Dr. Friday, the Opposition Leader, will do little to encourage anyone to run for office. We cannot hope these minor changes will have an impact on the lives of our people. So, to both of you, on behalf of myself and a few friends and acquaintances, keep your conscience clean and emotional nostalgic guilt support for this amendment to the RPA to yourself.
If we are going to change our system, let us do it with the conviction of a worrier and make a difference. All Public Employees should be permitted to engage in any political activity as long as it does not impair, or is not perceived as impairing, their ability to perform their duties impartially. All employees currently listed as ineligible in the amendment should be given an opportunity. They should be required to take a leave of absence without pay no fewer than six months before an elected term in office ends. They should be guaranteed the right to rejoin the government service if they were unsuccessful at the polls.
To do this, we must standardize the electoral system, fixing a date and time. We should outlaw “snap elections” unless it results from a vote of no confidence against the ruling party in parliament. I am a bit tired of the idea that the ruling party can call a general election whenever they fancy it fits their agenda. Another thing, the current process of voter registration is too cumbersome. We should also allow same-day registration for voters. While we are it, every candidate should be required to file a financial statement with the electoral office, of assets owned and liabilities owed directly and indirectly. These filings should be done every two years while in office and at the end of the term in office.
Horatio.
HURRICANE BERYL would have done its damage, but the cleanup and recovery have resulted in much unnecessary pollution. International agencies and others coming in to help should have been more sensitive to the environment in our small 3½-square mile island.
The cleanup crews collected all materials, separated the galvanize for shipment to Trinidad and burned the rest. Hardly any effort was made to save good materials that could have been reused. Much of what was burned emitted obnoxious and poisonous gases. These included plastics, PVC, synthetic clothes and furniture.
Too many plastic water bottles ended up in the trash. A bottle collection depot needs to be set up on Union Island for collection and return to St. Vincent.
We are at a critical time in the history of humans on Earth. Politically and religiously, we are at the end of their time, as many people globally are feeling unhappy with Trump winning the US presidential elections.
Our first recorded political leaders included the likes of Black man Adam, Moses with Black Man Jethro as his political advisor, David and Solomon to the Babylonian-minded Nebuchadnezzar, even Daniel who came in to give the direction of all the other governments on earth. Nebuchadnezzar, the political world leader at that time, had a dream of the end of all human governments on Earth.
According to Daniel 2, four world governments/kingdoms would rule globally before the end (Daniel 2:44):
1. Nebuchadnezzar and his Chaldean empire, the Medes and
the Persian (Iran/Iraq) took world power in 538BC (silver).
2. Alexander the Great took power from Iran/Iraq in 333BC and established the Greek Empire.
3. All who are acquainted with history know very well that the Roman Empire was established following the Grecian Empire around 146BC.
4. Then we had the melting down of Roman Empire…Dutch, Spanish, French, English, Portuguese created the TransAtlantic slave system. After the end of the slave system in the 1800s and the so-called abolition, we had two world wars in 1914/1918 and 1939-45 with the establishment of the United Nations, in which we held a seat on the UN Security Council recently.
While we welcome bikers from the Caribbean islands to celebrate our independence anniversary, are those motor cycles properly insured and licensed for use on our public roads?
Are we truly committed to enhancing our tourism industry when our capital city is plagued by the presence of numerous beggars and individuals with mental issues roaming the streets?
With all the scientific talk and robust explanation about inflation, when was the last time the ‘basket of goods’ on which the cost of living is accessed, was conducted here?
Are we afraid to show that the basic ‘basket of goods’, i.e. what the average household can afford, has decreased considerably?
It has been some time now that action was promised to regulate the use of tint on vehicles? Has anything been done in this regard?
Is the NDP undecided about its candidate for East St. George? Is it true that some top players in the party want one female lawyer over another female lawyer?
Would the Minister of Agriculture come clean once and for all and tell the nation what is his government’s position with respect to the cultivation of bananas in this country?
Would the Prime Minister update the country on how much (money) we now owe Taiwan? Was the latest loan to build the Acute Care Hospital at Arnos Vale included in the last figure we were given?
We are on the brink of WW3. Well, Trump said he is going to blow the endof-war. The next government will return to all its
people. People’s ownership and control of our nation. Trump has made history and is going to be part of the end of history…their story.
Mr. Editor, let us not forget the Argyle International Airport Peace Accord. So Gonsalves knew he would have been in hell fire if he didn’t bring in the UN and other leaders to more or less postpone the recent Guyana/Venezuela war. The reason for this article is to inform people of the ending of all wicked governments and to keep a good look on our end time mission.
Christian Democrat.
The Utility companies should have made some effort to retrieve telephone and electricity wires that are still a hazard in some areas. Food containers should be biodegradable.
Separation of trash into various categories should be required. Materials that are biodegradable should be composted.
There is no excuse for allowing cows, pigs, sheep and goats to roam freely on the island to destroy crops and flowers. If the owners are not keeping them under control, then the Ministry of Grenadines Affairs should dispatch them to the prisons, hospitals and the feeding programs.
One shining light in all of this is “Strongman.” He retrieved materials and has rebuilt his wooden house and has put on a fancier roof than he had before. More should have followed his example.
Anthony G. Stewart, PhD
SOMETIME AGOI wrote about private vehicles playing exceedingly loud music which I assumed was in breach of the Noise Act and called upon the police to do something about it. I was told there was hardly anything the police could do once the importation and use of the high-powered sound equipment is allowed. If that is the case, then
we must look at what we are allowing into our country since to allow it means it is not a prohibited item.
We must, therefore, start with regulating what we can import as far as vehicle sound systems are concerned. We cannot have a law that says one thing and then allow something to be legally imported that encourages breach of that law.
And, by the way, I
must also at this time raise the issue of the loudness and the type of music played by mini vans. I was almost deafened when recently I took a minibus into Kingstown.
I know for certain the police can do something about this, but it appears that kisses go by favour as far as mini vans are concerned.
Going Deaf.
THE 2024 USApresidential election has concluded, and the American people have spoken. Like it or not, the people have chosen; they have chosen Donald Trump to be their president for the next four years.
In speaking with many friends I have in the USA, I got the impression, as much as they were supporting Kamala Harris (not that they could vote) that one of the factors which contributed to Trump’s win was the state of the economy. It seems many Americans felt that their standard of living was being threatened under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
My friends told me that many Americans felt that they were worse off now compared to four years ago, and this sentiment played a significant role in the election’s outcome.
From where I stand, it seemed that the Democratic Party and moreso Kamala Harris failed to address these concerns effectively.
If what my friends say is true, and I have no reason to doubt them, the election result reflects the dissatisfaction many Americans felt with their current economic conditions and their desire for change.
(Excerpts from president of the NDP, Dr Godwin Friday’s presentation on his weekly radio programme)
“IT IS A TERRIBLE THING to happen where you have a cruise ship making a single call to St. Vincent and the Grenadines this year. It shows up and then is told that we are closed for business because someone else is using the berth where you are supposed to dock.
Just think of the impression that makes. They will give all kinds of excuses and explanations, but the people will be ‘pissed’ because they made this a call. They have organised their schedule and their cost to all of these things, to the expectation of their guests. Then you come to port Kingstown, and you can’t dock because you have somebody else using the berth that was built as a cruise ship berth. Don’t give excuses, get solutions to these problems.
This is what our country relies on. Our country relies on tourism especially at this time of the year. We have to maximize our benefit from it. And every cruise ship that you lose is money that the country is losing. I cannot think of any rational explanation as to why that ship should be there, at the cruise ship terminal. If you use it when the cruise ship season is done as they were doing earlier, the cruise season has started; so why are you having the ‘car boat’ still docking at that facility when it is supposed to be available for the cruise ship. That’s inexcusable!
The cruise ship is what brings the money in at this time of the year. You can’t have it where you are losing business simply because the authorities have not planned properly for something as simple as that. That photograph of the cruise ship, Aurora, leaving Kingstown and headed off somewhere else that is such a terrible image to be sending to the rest of the industry and to the world. Everybody else is trying to get business and we are saying don’t come. Or, we will tell you when to come. That’s not the right message to be sending.
The Minister of Tourism and the people at the Port should be held accountable for this. It is not acceptable. It makes us look disorganised and backward, quite frankly, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. There are other countries like St. Kitts which has three and four cruise ships at a time, at their port. And, here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines they never try to expand the cruise ship berth. In fact, they just leave it to deteriorate.
The cruise ship berth was built by the former NDP administration. You know how much they malign that facility. Do you remember when ‘left hand Lenny’ came and mashed it up? Some of them rejoiced and I reminded them of that recently. Because NDP built it, it doesn’t have any value? We see now that it has tremendous value. We see now the foresight of James Mitchell and the NDP that this has actually become one of the principal economic infrastructures to St. Vincent and the Grenadines and now
it’s being used for other things.
The point of the matter is this, when we have something that we have invested in we have to try and build it up and make sure that it works.
Last week, it was reported by an online publication that the population of St Vincent and the Grenadines has seen a decline of 11.4% in the past twenty-four (24) years. This period is during the governance of Unity Labour Party (ULP).
While we agree that there is a declining birth rate, which contributes to the declining population, the other contributing factor is migration. Research has shown that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has the highest migration rate of young people in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States. This is a shocking indictment where people are leaving and not returning, and birth rates are falling.
Most young people leave St. Vincent and the Grenadines because opportunities are not provided for them. Too many of our young people do not have work or the prospect of a well-paid or meaningful job. There are those who are also underemployed. Young people have been promised jobs by the ULP but they have not delivered those jobs. The government’s answer to unemployment is to ignore it until general elections.
Approximately 36% of the population of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are under the age of 30. Youth unemployment is at 41%. This is higher than when the ULP came into office. By every metric, the ULP government is failing our young people. Youth unemployment is abysmal, and poverty remains a fact of life for too many young people.
The ULP has let down young people by failing to build a country that they can thrive in. The ULP is tired and out of touch and is unable to deliver the many promises that it made to Vincentians. As a result, our best and brightest are leaving the country in search of work because there are no opportunities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
We cannot build a society of the future unless we give our young people hope and belief that better times are ahead. The NDP is the party for young people. The ULP government is simply not delivering for young people. They continue to deliver the same old messages and make vague promises which they cannot deliver. We have already established our Youth Guarantee Pledge to ensure every young person can have a job, training course or internship. Join us to create a brighter future. The NDP has a plan to deliver for young people across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“Data is the new oil. But just like oil, data can be weaponized. It can be used for good or for ill, to empower or to oppress.” - Viktor Mayer-Schönberger (born 1966), Professor of Internet Governance and Regulation at the Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford.
AN OBJECTIVE EXAMINATION of our various private and public sector organisations will reveal that they contain a significant amount of data that, if analysed, can provide leaders and managers with valuable insights in relation to how to improve various value chain activities aimed at reducing cost and improving efficiencies and quality. That being the case, every effort should be made to weaponize the data to enhance effectiveness and efficiencies.
Data is advancing at an alarming rate. It is estimated that the amount of data generated globally is doubling approximately every two years. This mind-boggling phenomenon is fuelled by online transactions and social media. In addition, the technological innovations that have enabled the advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics now enable much faster processing and analysis of data. The rapid expansion of the internet and mobile technology now enables faster and more secure connectivity of devices and people. This has further magnified the creation and storage of data. In addition, we are now better able to store, manage, and analyse data through cloud-based services thereby enabling individuals and organizations to leverage data for various applications. This has also facilitated a quickening and expansion of innovation, the influencing of decision-making processes, and the reshaping of many business processes. Such enhancements aid in reducing operational costs, enhancing efficiencies, and improving quality of products and services.
In the modern-day digital setting, data has emerged as one of the most valuable resources. For example, business strategists and marketing experts can examine such variables as population size, age groups, gender, level of education attained, disposable income, etc. and determine how best to advertise products and services aimed at attracting and retaining specific segments of the population. There is a science to such approaches and data analysis wield the potential to significantly influence such societal dynamics. However, this power can also be weaponized, leading to ethical challenges and overwhelming consequences for individuals and communities. This can be especially evident when vulnerable age groups (e.g., adolescents and young adults) and sensitive segments of the society (e.g., low income and under-educated) are targeted. In such cases, weaponizing data can be used to facilitate strategic manipulation or exploitation of information to achieve harmful ends for personal gain, social control, or political advantage.
During the last decade evidence has emerged that governments, corporations, and individuals have benefited from the use of big data analytics and a myriad of tools to process vast amounts of information. While this has generated a significant amount of good (e.g., focusing on improving health and the environment)
some have used the advanced technology to engage in targeted surveillance and the dissemination of misinformation. For example, the 2010 scandal involving the British consultancy firm Cambridge Analytica revealed how personal data from millions of Facebook users was collected and used to influence political campaigns. Having analyzed voter behaviour and preferences, this data was weaponized to manipulate opinions and influence elections. This highlights the powerful synergistic relationship of psychology and technology.
It must be noted that weaponizing data is not limited to the political arena. Businesses can leverage consumer data to expand their customer base by using available information to attract and retain customers through advertisements, pricing, and so on. While this is not inherently bad, every effort must be made to ensure the retention of ethical practices related to data usage. In addition, every effort must be made to guarantee, as best as possible, that the principles of fairness and transparency outshine power and profit motives.
While weaponizing data has the potential to enhance various aspects of society, concerns have emerged in relation to certain aspects of privacy and security. For example, surveillance technologies such as facial recognition, powered by big data, enable some governments to monitor its citizens extensively, often under the pretext of national security. This loss of privacy raises questions about the infringements of civil liberties and the potential for authoritarian regimes to suppress populations by controlling the flow of information. In such cases, data can become a powerful tool for oppression and the erosion of the fundamental rights of individuals and communities.
Data can be used for good and for evil; it holds the potential for positive change but can also be used to generate significant harm. Our quest is to balance innovation with ethical considerations as we seek to harness data responsibly. In doing so we will seek to ensure that it serves to uplift and inspire rather than suppress and depress; to build rather than to destroy. Our challenge as we navigate this complex ever-expanding landscape is to ensure that there is vigilance and accountability as we commit to the responsible use of data mining — one of our most powerful resources.
Based on the foregoing, we have a greater understanding and appreciation of the need for governments, societies, and organizations to design and implement robust data protection laws, systems, and structures aimed at safeguarding individual privacy and ensuring transparency of data usage. As our societies become more informed and enlightened in relation to data literacy, we are more inclined to recognize and resist the subtle manipulations that the users of big data may practice. As a result, we will be better positioned to demand greater accountability and transparency by those who possess the skills and wherewith all to weaponize data.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
IN A REMARKABLE FEAT that demonstrates and depicts discipline, dedication, determination, commitment, consistency, insight, foresight, and hindsight, Renwick Kamara Rose, a noteworthy son of our soil, has published a trilogy chronicling his 50 years as a journalist in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Under the broad theme Reflections, Kamara Rose’s threevolume recollection pulls together his writings over five decades in Freedom, the organ of the Youlou United Liberation Movement, Justice, the voice of the United People’s Movement (the Upful party) and the pro-government Searchlight Newspaper, where he has written a weekly column since 1995.
These books are no small feat. There were times when Kamara wrote every word in Freedom, and at times, he used his money to ensure that the paper was printed every Friday. At the advanced youthful age of 77, he continues to write. Kamara is a model of self-sacrifice. With young children to care for, he gave up his government job with a guaranteed salary. He threw himself into writing, mobilising, and organising so that Vincentians could have a better life.
We challenge this new generation to read his rich body of work, learn from it, and be inspired by his example. He is simple in delivery and humble in temperament. But to adequately capture the essence and quality of the man, we can do no less than proclaim him: simply profound and profoundly simple. He possesses the uncanny ability to reinvent himself: Teacher, developmental economist, revolutionary leader, womanist, reparations, civil society activist and leader, farmer advocate, and journalist.
Forgive me if you detect a bias towards him in my writing about this little giant. I credit him for playing a monumental role in helping to build the foundation of who I am and what I have become. My master’s thesis from Howard University was dedicated to him with these words: To Kamara Rose, who taught me how to think critically and write.
For those who don’t like what he has to say, go to your smartphone or laptop and write. Challenge him and counter his ideas. Barrister Andrew Cummings said that Dr Kenneth John, a columnist in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, possessed a permanent NDP gaze. Kamara may not deny that he has a permanent fixation with Gonsalves’ ULP. He once said that criticising Gonsalves means giving succour to the enemy. But here’s the challenge. I dare anyone to match his unquestionable commitment and dedication to St Vincent and the Grenadines.
It is not easy to write a column every week for 50 years. Kamara Rose has done it with aplomb. In the series to mark this important milestone, he pulls together writings that bring to life his thoughts and ideas on the struggle for independence and the task of defending democracy, women’s struggles for justice and equality and the demand for reparatory justice.
Independence and Democracy
I write in broad strokes because I want you to read the books. Of the three volumes, I am particularly drawn to the text highlighting our march to independence and the struggle for an independent constitution. It lays bare the fighting
spirit of our people and puts a lie to those who claim that our people are ‘stupid and docile.’ Moreover, the writings in this volume point to the pioneering role of progressive forces and their dedicated effort to build broad coalitions to secure and protect democratic rights and freedoms. To read again the efforts made in support of genuine independence rather than the flag independence we have settled for and mobilising efforts to build trade unions and to fight against the government’s repression, suppression and oppression causes one to yearn for bygone days.
Who would believe that the labour government of Milton Cato went to parliament with legislation to make it a crime to organise in unions and ban thought? Had it not been for the mobilisation of over 10,000 to 15,000 citizens in June 1981, it would have been a crime to think about committing a crime. How the security forces were to know what you were thinking remains frightening 43 years after the people killed the Public Safety and Public Order Bill and the Essential Services Amendment Bill.
Reading about these preindependent struggles demonstrates how divided and conservative we have become.
Kamara Rose called for a ‘He for She movement’ that defended women’s rights long before women realised their potential. The American writer Sonia Sanchez will describe him as a true womanist. As early as 1975, Kamara called for deeper involvement of our women in politics. He railed against the token positions that women were being offered and warned against them being sexploited and dehumanised. He has also strongly condemned violence against women. In a 2022 piece titled Much to Celebrate, Rose pointed to women’s progress, participation in national development, and educational achievement. However, he cautioned that the advancement had been ‘largely individual rather than collective.’
A long-standing opponent of slavery, colonisation, and neocolonialism, Kamara has been at the forefront of the battle for reparatory justice. He has argued that we must never apologise for our demands for reparations. He frequently invoked the names of icons such as Malcolm X and Marcus Garvey and connected black history and the demand for reparations.
He has also highlighted the unique heroic role played by our Garifuna forebears and the genocide committed by the British colonialists that included the assassination of Joseph Chatoyer, our national hero. History and struggle jump off these pages, making these books recommended reading, especially for the younger generation. Renwick Kamara Rose’s three-volume collection will make a perfect Christmas gift.
CARIBBEAN LEADERShave
congratulated Donald Trump on his election as President of the United States for a second term. Here are some of those congratulatory messages:
Mia Amor Mottley – Prime Minister of Barbados:
“On behalf of the people and Government of Barbados, I congratulate President-elect Donald Trump on your victory in the United States Presidential Elections. … The United States continues to be one of our closest allies. Barbados stands ready to work together to build an even stronger relationship and stronger region in this new chapter.”
Philip Davis - Prime Minister of The Bahamas:
“Congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump. As neighbours and partners, The Bahamas and the United States share a unique bond built on friendship and respect. I look forward to working together to strengthen this relationship and building on areas of mutual interest.”
Luis Abinader – President of the Dominican Republic:
“I congratulate @realDonaldTrump on his significant electoral victory as the 47th President of the United States. The Dominican Government will continue to strengthen the warm and strategic ties between our countries in this new stage.”
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves – Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: (inter alia)
“The Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines congratulates President-elect Donald J Trump on his election as the 47th President of the United States of America. …. . The Government and People of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have a long history of close ties and warm relations with the United States of America. We look forward to building upon those historic ties in our traditional atmosphere of openness and mutual respect for the benefit of both our countries and the shared prosperity of our peoples.”
Dr. Terrance M. Drew – Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis:
“On behalf of the Government and People of Saint Kitts and Nevis, I extend congratulations to Presidentelect Donald Trump on his election victory. … Saint Kitts and Nevis looks forward to continuing our strong partnership with the United States. Together we can strengthen our shared values of democracy, expand economic opportunities, and advance our mutual interest for global peace and stability.”
Chandrikapersad Santokhi –President of Suriname:
Dr. Irfaan Ali –President of Guyana:
“I extend heartfelt congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump on his victory in Tuesday’s election in the United States. Guyana looks forward to working closely with the incoming administration to further strengthen the already robust ties between our two
Andrew HolnessPrime Minister of Jamaica:
“Congratulations President Donald J. Trump, @realDonaldTrump, on your election as the 47th President of the United States of America. Jamaica remains committed to strengthening our close and enduring partnership with the United States and looks forward to advancing the goals of growth, stability, and prosperity for our people.”
“The democratic process has been followed and the people of the United States have made their preference known. Suriname hopes that the new leadership in the United States will contribute effectively to peace and greater security in the world. As President, I look forward to the continuation of good bilateral relations between Suriname and the United States of America, led by Presidentelect Trump.”
Dr. Keith Rowley – Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago: inter alia)
“On behalf of the Government and People of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and, on my own behalf, I wish to extend sincere congratulations on your victory at the Presidential Elections held on November 05, 2024. The people of the United States of America have spoken in a clear and strong voice and your success reflects their trust in your vision for the future.
The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the United States of America share a long and enduring relationship, founded on deep ties across many sectors, including trade, security, culture and people-to-people exchanges. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation in the years ahead. I have every confidence that under your stewardship, the relationship with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM), will continue to prosper.”
THE VINCENTIAN reached out to a cultural figure who was a constant in the news for many years but who, it seemed, had dropped out of sight.
As a drummer with Naked Roots he was active across the country (Mainland and Grenadines) presenting educational entertainment and supporting cultural activities.
Then he joined the Department of Culture and served thirty years there, rising to the top position of Cultural Officer, and in the process, led the Department to running Government Policy into actionable support for the artists of the nation.
We are of course speaking of and with Mr. Anthony Theobalds, now retired from his ‘Government job’ but, as we found out, not at all inactive as far as the Arts are concerned.
Question: Where have you been, why are we not seeing you?”
Theobalds: I have retired from Government service. I retired in 2020. When I was with Naked Roots, I was often in the news for the cultural entertainment that we were doing. Then when I joined the Department of
Culture, I was in the news for the work the Department was doing. I guess that with retirement I have stepped out of public service and also out of the public eye.”
Question: So, then what are you doing with your time these days? Have you given up all your public service?
Theobalds: Let me answer your second question first. No, I have not given up all my public service. I still serve the National Trust of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I still interact with the artists and creators. I offer encouragement, and if asked, guidance. For a while I served on the Peace Memorial Hall Board.
To speak on the first question, the primary use of my time is in writing. I have three books of poetry published with Jobo Jungle Press who operates from St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the USA. I am working on a collection of short stories as well as a longer story which could become a novel. I have three plays that I have written. I staged one called The Bar here in SVG in 2019 and I have two other plays that are not yet staged.
Question: Tell us of the poetry books.
Theobalds: Well, as I said there are three so far. The first is called “Thoughts and Images for those Days” which was published in 2019. The second is called “Creating” which was published in 2021. The third - “Girl
Watcher” was published in 2023. I launched the first two here in SVG during Literary Arts Festival, presented by UWI Open Campus. “Girl Watcher” had a launch in Ottawa, Canada but has not had a launch in SVG.
Question: How can persons get copies of your books?
Theobalds: These are days of Amazon.com and the books are under author Claude Anthony.
Question: Why a pen name? Why Claude Anthony?
Theobalds: When I started writing I was still at the Department of Culture. I wanted to separate my professional identity from my artistic work. I choose to remember my father with the use of his name.”
Question: Can people expect to see you in the public eye any time in the future?
Theobalds: That depends on the response to the arts by the general public and the corporate sector. I would like to stage one of my new plays here. So, if I thought persons would come out to a venue and I could do it with financial success, then I would. That also applies to launch of a book or any other artistic endeavour. I am aware this is true for singers and painters and dancers, etc. There needs to be financial support for creators of
art or no art gets created.
Question: Have you given any thought to filming any of your plays?
Theobalds: Yes, I have. My question has always been for what purpose. I have written the play. If I then have it filmed how does the film person get paid? How do the actors get paid? Who spends for the venue where it is filmed? Costumes? Makeup? And so on. When a movie is made in Hollywood there is a company who gathers the money that pays for all those things. Then they get paid when cinema houses buy the movie to show patrons who pay to go see the movie. So, I keep things simple. People pay to come into the venue, that money plus some sponsorship pays for actors, costumes, makeup and venue. As a writer I get royalties when other persons put on my plays.
Question: What other plans do you have?
Theobalds: What else? I think if I can facilitate it, I would like to do some work in promotion and producing. There are many artists here who could positively impact our development. Over the years I have made a few contacts outside of SVG so I would like to leverage that to assist our artists. At this time, I’m trying to understand the practical elements of the exercise. Learn it for myself so I can share it with other artists.
ALLOW MEto ramble…
Contributing to Vincy Mas became more of a mission than a mere wish after my dad walked me into my first mas tent - it was the Wizards Mas Camp which occupied the ‘Arrowroot Pool’ which is now the NIS headquarters. An elementary-aged budding artist, I was being mesmerized by skill, talent, dedication and, of course, beauty.
I would come into contact with other important contributors while at my dad’s side - Ossie of Nelson Bloc’ at the time (who personally welcomed me into what could have been considered as his Paul’s Avenue Art Gallery), Melborne, Blondie Bird, to name a few. Dad’s tenure at the Carnival Development Committee only increased the frequency of such interactions and fed directly into my hunger for more MAS!
Nadia Huggins (daughter of renowned Mas designer Brian Huggins) and I still make a conversation out of us regretting that she and I never followed through on us designing an entire band…and I still regret passing up on opportunities to play mas. Don’t judge me!
And then Uncle Becks…
You gave me an opportunity to contribute. Little did I know, the opportunity to design Mirage Productions’ ‘Showtime’ T-shirts would be more than that. It would become an annual reminder to focus on the details within the perfectionist manual written and published by Lennox ‘Becks’ Gonsalves - an open door into this great mind. My standards are the highest everyday as a graphic designer/creative director because of Uncle Becks - I also want to believe you contributed a little bit to me being fluent in ‘French’ Not true Mike
Ollivierre?
Thank you for allowing me to contribute to Vincy Mas in some way - it was, to say the least, very important to me that I tick it off my bucket list. Thank you for listening. Thank you for guiding. Thank you for the privilege to call you Uncle. I still see you with your feet cocked up on the desk ‘cussin’ everybody who you see doing foolishness on the security camera screen in front of you
As you rest now, I will ensure I continue to “measure twice and cut once”.
Condolences to all who mourn, especially so Aunty Carol, Rebecca and Ryan Gonsalves. Play Mas in Peace!
Magaldi Neehall
Right: Lennox ‘Becks’ Gonsalves impacted in ways too many and too diverse to give true justice.
Story Submitted by: SVGEF
Photos by: Lisa Gaymes
THE ST. VINCENT AND THE Grenadines Environment Fund (SVGEF) was thrilled to host biology students from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) for an educational field trip focused on sea turtle conservation. This interactive session was designed to support their ongoing research by providing hands-on knowledge about sea turtle preservation and the environment.
The group, consisting of 14 biology students and two lecturers, spent two hours with the SVGEF conservation team along the coastline, during which
time they observed sea turtle habitats, learned about the threats these marine animals face, and came away with an appreciation of the ongoing efforts needed to protect them.
During the guided tour, SVGEF Manager — Stephen Hornsey, and Projects Officer - Lisa Gaymes answered questions, encouraged discussions, and shared insights into the critical role conservation plays in preserving marine biodiversity.
This initiative underscores the SVGEF’s commitment to fostering environmental education and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders. By connecting
JAMBOREE ON THE AIR/Jamboree Over The Internet (JOTA/JOTI) is always held for a 48-hour period on the third Weekend in October.
Sean Patterson-J88CU, Technical Director of the YRM, assisting a participant with making contact.
The theme for 2024 was “Scouts for a greener planet”. Scouts from all over the world got on the airwaves and in recent years over the internet (hence JOTI), to renew friendships as well and forge new ones.
This year, here in SVG, about 30 scouts and girl guides converged at the Scout Headquarters at Arnos Vale, set up a temporary HF Ham radio station and then went about making local, regional and international contacts.
Contact was made with St. Kitts, Grenada, Scandinavia, USA, During the day local radio amateurs also made
One of the participants listening attentively to a party on the other end of his radio communication.
contact with scouts from the Philippines and Malta. Facilitating JOTA/JOTI 2024 was local Ham enthusiast and Technical Director of the Youlou Radio Movement (YRM) Sean PattersonJ88CU.
Other local radio operators supporting JOTA/JOTI included Paul Lowmans K9PSL, Arington RaguetteJ88SE, Ronald Haynes - J88AE, Floyd Dowden - J39JX and Donald De Riggs - J88CD. (Submitted)
students directly with the practical aspects of sea turtle conservation, the SVGEF aims to deepen appreciation for St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ unique biodiversity and inspire citizens to play an active role in its preservation.
For more information about the SVGEF and our conservation projects, please visit https://www.svgef.org or follow SVGEF on social media.
THE GUYANA AND TRINIDAD FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY will exit the local insurance market as of December 31, 2024. This announcement came by way of a press release made available to the local media on Wednesday, 13th November.
The release said that the decision to exit the market was taken by the Board of Directors in June 2024, and was occasioned by “high property reinsurance costs, following notification from the Company’s reinsurance providers of yet another increase in reinsurance premiums; the third request for an increase in premium in two (2) years.”
This decision, according to the Management of the company, “does not in
any way affect the operations of the GTM Life Insurance Company
Limited. The GTM Life Insurance Company Limited will continue its operations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, offering both life and health insurance products to the market as it has done for many decades.”
While the GTM Fire Insurance Company Limited or the GTM Fire Insurance Company Limited that was established in 1880, and the Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Life Insurance Company Limited or the GTM Life Insurance Company Limited that was established in 1925, are separate and distinct entities, they operate under the same roof — the Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Group of Insurance Companies.
The GTM Fire Insurance Company Limited licensed under the Insurance Act Cap 306 of St. Vincent & the Grenadines, sells property, motor vehicle and liability insurance products, whereas the GTM Life Insurance Company Limited is licensed to sell life and health insurance products.
TEAMat Sol – St. Vincent & the Grenadines recently converged on the Pembroke Service Station, to celebrate a major achievement by that Station’s team.
For the second time in 2024, Pembroke Service Station has achieved an impressive 100% score in the Mystery Motorist Audit, the first being in the second quarter (April-June) and successfully repeated in the fourth quarter (October-December).
The Mystery Motorist Audit, conducted anonymously, evaluates the quality of service and cleanliness at Sol stations, ensuring that standards remain consistently high. The outstanding results at Pembroke Service Station reflect the team’s dedication to delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining a pristine environment.
Retailer Shafia London, who joined the celebration virtually from out of state, expressed her pride in the team’s accomplishments, congratulating them for their hard work and commitment. She also shared her optimism for continued success in the coming year, hoping to see even greater achievements in 2025.
In appreciation of Pembroke Service Station’s loyal customers, especially those who have chosen Sol as their preferred fuelling station, they were treated to pizza and non-alcoholic beverages.
Sol’s General Manager, Collin Francis, commented, “I am incredibly proud of our Sol Pembroke team for setting such a high standard and showcasing what excellence looks like across our network. Especially, as we try to improve on Same Store Sales, Sol Pembroke consistently tries to offer customers more than just fuel or fuel products. You can tell from visiting the location, that customers love and trust us. Celebrating these achievements is vital, as it reflects the hard work our front-line teams deliver each day.
Dear George,
THINGS ARE HARD with me with four children and my husband who just lost his job.
My husband has been trying to find work, but he has had no success… “things slow” they keep telling him. Now he is saying the only thing left for him to do is steal and every day I would beg him not to.
George, my children are suffering, I never finished primary school, but I still try to turn my hand to try to make ends meet. Going to Social Welfare is a waste of time. They have me like a yo-yo going back and forth and still no assistance.
Also, people who I expected to help me, like those I helped once, never did. It is like I am a bother to everybody.
I love my children, George, but I have to do what I have to do. It is better I leave this wicked world. I have nobody I can depend on or talk to in confidence since my business is all over the place.
I am writing this letter with tears in my eyes. Thanks George, for entertaining me. Bless.
I feel your pain. Even though your experience has served as a horrible reminder of the callousness of people in general, you cannot afford to lose hope and throw in the towel. Even though you feel you are at the breaking point, you still need to dig deeper and be strong for your family.
I am redirecting you to The Marion House. There are people there who can and will help you. Continue to try your hand at different things and you may even get more workable suggestions when you sit with The Marion House counselor.
You have much to live for - four children and a husband who love you. Keep me posted on your progress.
George.
Dear George,
MY BOYFRIENDworks on Bequia on what he said is a private project, but up to now he cannot give me the name of the place where he is working nor the name of his supervisor. Word got back to me that he is actually living with a woman down there. Many times I offered to visit him and he gave me every reason why I should not do so.
He has not come up to the mainland in three months and the reason he gives is that he is not allowed time off.
I hate to think what I am thinking is really so. How should I approach this without making a fool of myself?
Need to Know.
It is quite unusual for your boyfriend to
Caught in the act
Dear George,
I CAUGHT MY BOYFRIEND redhanded in the shower with another woman whom he claimed was his cousin. He said she barged in on him while he was in the middle of his shower, and he was trying to push her out that’s why he was holding her.
I have since given him marching orders but some of my closest friends are begging me to give him a second chance. Do you think I was too harsh in asking him to leave my life?
Very Upset.
withhold the name of the project, etc.
Of course, you can pay him a surprise visit and get your answers, but you do not have to resort to that to know that you are being played. Let him know he is free to stay with his private project for as long as he needs to but when he’s finished, his services will no longer be needed. You need to move on.
George.
Dear Very Upset,
It makes no sense being with and investing in someone whom you cannot trust. Even when caught in that act, he refused to come clean which is a clear indication that he has no intention of changing his cheating ways.
There is much wisdom in your decision to cut the rope and deciding to move on, leaving him to be with whomever he pleases.
George.
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Time is money and you must be ready to take action in order to reach your highest potential. Resist secret affairs that could be detrimental to your reputation. This is a good day to check out your investments. Expect to experience a sudden reversal of fortune.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21)
Avoid joint ventures and steer clear of groups that want you to contribute financial assistance. Romantic opportunities will flourish through travel or communication. You can make career changes that may put you in a much higher earning bracket. You may find yourself in a romantic situation.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
A residential move may be in order. You can meet new and exciting lovers through work related projects. You may become rundown if you take on too much. Be careful disclosing information.
CANCER (June 22-July 22)
Look after financial transactions this week. Misunderstandings could cause confusion and upset. Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty. Dig deep to find out how costly a new venture will be before you sign on the dotted line.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Get out and rub shoulders with people in high positions if possible. Matters pertaining to your home environment will be favorable if you are direct. You will attract new love interests. Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
The home environment will be unpredictable this week. Be discreet about any information you uncover. Social events held in your home will be successful and entertaining for those who
attend. Romance will come through involvement with fundraising organizations.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Dinner, theater, or a comedy club may be just the place. You may overspend if you travel this week; however, the trip will be one to remember. Pamper yourself; the self esteem it brings you will be most gratifying. Think twice before eating spicy foods; you may have problems with your stomach.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Be careful what you say. Try not to let relatives or friends cause any friction with your mate. Your high energy should be spent pleasing your mate. The experience will be good.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You may end up being blamed if anything goes wrong. Do not let the reactions of others get you going. Difficulties relating to children will be stressful. Don't overextend yourself in the process.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Spend some time on yourself. Put your time and energy into travel, philosophy, and soul-searching. You need adventure and excitement in your life. Good friends will give you honest answers.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19)
Throw yourself into your profession. Uncertainty regarding your mate may emerge; reevaluate what you see in each other. Promote your ideas now. You can get good solid advice from relatives or close friends you trust.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
You can find out important information if you listen to friends and relatives. Networking will be a necessity. Find out more, if you want to start your own business. You can meet potential new mates if you socialize with friends.
ACROSS
1.Workout locale 4. Teacher’s assistant 8. New Deal pres. 11. Director Spike 12. Smokes a ham 13. “You’ll __ the day!”
14. Grain morse! 15. Rating 17. Chicken serving 19. __ room 20. That lady 21. Legislates 25. Utensils for mixing cocktails
29. Nick Charles’s wife 30. Came in first 31. Very strange 34. Gloomy __
35. Dad’s sister
37. Reads
39. Jewelry box item
42. Hold session
43. Trouble
44. Low in iron
48. “Jack and the __”
52. Cigar residue
53. Spherical body 54. Stubborn beasts
55. Soccer’s Hamm
56. CIA predecessor
57. Picks
58. Common conjunction
DOWN
1.Shaving cream measure
2. 365 days 3. Parcel (out) 4. Stern 5. April 15th agcy. 6. Plow pioneer 7. German steel city 8. Calendar abbr. 9. Press for payment 10. Standard (abbr.) 12. Kind of nut 16. Read quickly 18. Put a question to
22. Gear teeth 23. Honaest 24. Smart talk 25. Large mop 26. Time period 27. __ Domini
Mother
The fat __ the fire (2 wds.)
10/31 shout
28. Tiny taste 32. Used car deals 33. Swigs 36. “On the __” 38. Southwestern Indian 40. Helen Gurley Browne’s mag 41. Excited (2 wds.)
FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN SUCCESSION, St. Vincent and the Grenadines finished third in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Swimming Championships.
When the 32nd edition ended last Sunday, November 10, 2024, at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre, Ratho Mill, host St. Vincent and the Grenadines finished on 1102 points.
Antigua and Barbuda topped the standings ahead of Grenada. Placing fourth was St. Lucia, with St. Kitts and Nevis finishing fifth.
In sixth place was St. Maarten, seventh was the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla was eighth.
Dominica also sent swimmers to be part of the championships.
Among the highlights of the Vincentians’ output were two age group titles.
Jadon Hamilton won the Boys 11-12 and Hazen Dabriel copped the Boys 13-14.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines also swept the 100m Breaststroke Boys’ 1112, as Kion De Shong took gold; Caghry Williams, silver and Hamilton
secured bronze. Meanwhile, Alexander Joachim set a new OECS record in the Boys 18 and Over 100m Breaststroke.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Isabel Nicholas won the Girls’ 8-and-Under. St. Lucia’s Miles Andrew won the Boys 8-and-Under category.
Taking the Girls 9-10 was Sapphire
Parks of St. Lucia with Antigua and Barbuda’s Christopher Walter doing likewise for the Boys.
Pouching the Girls 11-12 was Anya De Gannes of Antigua and Barbuda, with St. Lucia’s Fayth Jeffrey winning the Girls’ 13-14.
Grenada dominated the 15-17 age group, as Tilly Collymore won the Women’s title, and Nathan Fletcher, the Men’s.
Likewise, Grenada bossed the 18and-Over age group, with Gabrielle Hyson taking the Women’s crown and the Men’s title went to Zachary Gresham.
And for good measure, St. Vincent
A 12-MEMBER TEAM OFathletes representing Special Olympics SVG secured 2 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals, when they participated in the inaugural Special Olympics Caribbean Initiative Regional Beach Games in Trinidad and Tobago, from November 8 - 10, 2024.
The medals were accounted for by: Krista Bynoe who captured gold in the Aquathlon - Swim & Run, and silver in the Open Water 750m event, in which Jason Williams took gold.
SVG also secured silver in the Bocce Doubles, while Roshorn Payne bagged the bronze in the Bocce singles.
The Footballers held their own to finish with a bronze.
The Beach Games were created by Trinidadian Kester Edwards, a former Special Olympics athlete who is now the Manager of Sports and Training at Special Olympics International.
The inaugural Games brought together some 130 athletes, 70 coaches, and delegates from across the Caribbean and North America to compete in a variety of beach sports, including Aquathlon, Beach Bocce,
Beach Volleyball, Beach Football and Open Water Swimming.
Efforts are already in train to stage the Games every two years, with the venue being rotated.
I.B.A. ALLEN
and the Grenadines will once again be host in 2025, when the 33rd edition of the championships is convened.
IF LAST SATURDAY’S (NOV. 09) SHOW of enthusiasm at the Girls’ High School hard court is anything to go by, the 2024/2025 St. Vincent and the Grenadines Volleyball Association (SVGVA) National Volleyball Championships will be one to savour.
The championships return after a break in 2023, with fifteen teams from four clubs, stashed in four divisions, registered as claimants for honours.
Gremlins leads the way with five teams — one each in the Senior Men, Senior Women, Male B, and two in the Female B, the four divisions of the championships.
Country Roots has teams in the Senior Male, Senior Female and two in the Male B, with Unique Touch entering a team in all four divisions. And, making a return is the South Rivers-based Eagles Club, that features a unit each in the Male and Female B Divisions.
Addressing last Saturday’s Opening Ceremony- President of the SVG Volleyball Association- Gary Matthias, implored the players to make the best of the championships.
Noting that the championships will serve as a benchmark, “You are not competing for the championships, you are setting the standard for Volleyball in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is your chance to learn more and become the local superstars. It is important for you to understand that as players, as coaches, as administrators whatever you have to do, do it with all your might, do it with all your will”.
And as he reognised the wide geographic spread of the participating clubs, he urged them to encourage their supporters to attend the matches, saying, “We are trying to build our fan base this year and we
actually have a prize for fans, for the club with the most fans. Make sure you bring out all your fans”.
The championships will run into 2025, as there will be a break next month for the Christmas festivities.
When the last championships were held in 2022, Gremlins won the Senior Male, Senior Female and Male B titles, with Unique Touch, taking the Female B Division.
Gary Matthias, President/SVGVA, addressing the opening of the 2024/25 national championships.
Eagles of South Rivers, once a powerhouse in SVG Volleyball, makes a return to national Volleyball. Their female B Division team is pictured.
THE ATHLETES COMMISSION of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee, last Saturday, November 9, 2024, hosted a Leadership Skill and Development Forum and Mini Expo, at the Paradise Inn Beach Hotel.
Attended by representatives of affiliates of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee (SVGOC), the forum had as its main facilitator- Mrs. Hazel Ann Regis-Buckels, a former Grenadian Olympian.
Chairperson of the Athletes CommissionKineke Alexander-Stay noted that the extended objective of the forum, “is for the respective national sporting
associations/federations and unions, to establish their own Athletes Commissions, by equipping each athlete and coach with the skills that they need to develop an Athletes Commission within their federation.
Alexander-Stay revealed that with the national sporting bodies having their Athletes Commissions, they will then provide representatives to the National Athletes Commission.
“As an Athletes Commission, we want athletes to know that they have a voice. Whatever sport that you are involved in, we want your voice. Any problem you have, you can find us, you can talk to us. In this way, we will be able to have a direct
FIVE SCHOOLS HAVE QUALIFIED for team semi-finals places across the Boys and Girls categories of the 2024 Ministry of Housing, Youth
and Sports Inter Primary Schools Table Tennis Championships.
Gymnastics demonstration was part of Saturday’s expo
communication from each federation”, Alexander-Stay made known.
One who has represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at all major global Track and Field events, Alexander-Stay reinforced that the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Olympic Committee and the Athletes Commission are not “enemies”.
In the Boys category, Clare Valley Government will face-off against the Kingstown Anglican School, and Fair Hall Government School against the Barrouallie Government School, when the semis get going on Tuesday, 19th November. Among the Girls, as in the Boys category, Clare Valley Government School will clash with the Kingstown Anglican School in one semi-final. Owia Government School will face off against Barrouallie Government School in the other.
And as the Primary Schools await the semi-final deciders, the Inter Secondary Schools Boys Teams Championships will serve off On Wednesday 13th November, 2024.
The Championships are being played at the Girls Guides Headquarters in Kingstown.
She is hopeful that following Saturday’s forum, with the groundwork having been laid, the national sporting bodies will expedite the process of establishing their Athletes Commission.
Meanwhile, national associations used the expo to
display their paraphernalia, show videos, mount demonstrations, and invite those in attendance “to try new sports”. From all indications, given the response it attracted, the expo looks likely to become an annual affair.
TEAMS FOR THE 2025 GOLD CUP are beginning to put themselves in line. El Salvador, even while their fans are still smarting over their loss to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, are on their way to the Gold Cup finals. El Salvador has the opportunity to further enhance their position with two home games against Bonaire and Montserrat which winds up Sunday. The Vincentians are hoping to attain a proper ranking that will see them in the race as second placed team.
The Vincentians have to take care of their opponents in the first place to guarantee their standings.
Suggestions by the local Football Federation that the Vincentians will be in for a hostile reception from the fans in El Salvador may have been premature. In any event, ST. Vincent and the Grenadines will not be playing El Salvador in El Salvador.
Perhaps the staging of the fixtures with El Salvador playing their home match against St. Vincent and the Grenadines at Arnos Vale may have been detrimental to El Salvador.
The Vincentians ought not to be bothered about the El Salvador crowd. The match will be televised, and if there is any sense of order or civility, normalcy ought to prevail.
We in St. Vincent and the Grenadines witnessed some dubious tactics by El Salvador in St. Vincent. But the Vincentians, players, and crowd alike don’t display any signs of misconduct.
We just play the game and move on.
It was with a sense of pride and satisfaction that the crowd was able to celebrate and appreciate the win in that second encounter.
Having drawn with Bonaire in Bonaire, and success over Montserrat, the neutral venue in El Salvador should not intimidate the Vincentians. Other teams have secured their berth to the Gold, including St. Lucia, Haiti and Dominican Republic from League B.
The announcement of Semi Pro Football League in St. Vincent and the Grenadines comes as joyful sounds to young Vincentian players. That will give us the latitude and platform for takeoff.
There is that natural inclination of Vincentians to football. Indeed, sports altogether. Generations before us showed the tendency toward great sporting prowess. Persons harp back to those like St. Clair Warner, who some dub the grandmaster of sports.
He is known to have spawned a generation of sportsmen men and women. Our legacy is well founded , and as faith would have it, the potential continues to surface in unlimited quantities.
Look at the way our athletes adapt and adopt to situations, and bring out that kind of shock when we come up against countries with far greater population and resources.
The nature of our terrain, the landscape and coastal outline provide a healthy and conducive atmosphere.
When you see the Vincentians rise to the occasion, remember we are who we are.
We have a beautiful country as many of our cultural proponents have explained. And the natives do everything in their power to maintain that sense of dignity.
When we hit the track, field, court, arena, pool, or wherever the contest takes place, Vincy give their best. That will be enough to accomplish if not complete success, show what we are made of.
WINDIES MASTERS emerged as Fete Division Champions while Al Pro Masters and Canada Masters shared the Festival Division top title when the 2024 SVG International Masters T20 Cricket Festival came to an end on Saturday, at the Sion Hill playing field.
Windies Masters prevailed over AMAAS Sporting Services Barbados Masters by four runs in the Fete
Division Final, which was reduced to ten overs per inning because of rain. Windies Masters got up to 71 for 8 in their allotment - Wesley Straker 2/7, Winston Gittens 2/13 and Anthony Morris 2/15 bowling for Barbados Masters, who replied with 67 for 4 in 10; and Winsbert Springer, 3/12 in 20 overs, leading the bowling for Windies Masters.
The Festival Division final between All Pro Masters and Canada Masters was abandoned due to the inclement weather. All Pro Masters had powered their way up to 164 for 6 in 20 overs in which Deems Baird smashed 70 not out and Anderson Agard unbeaten on 34. Raj Gopalan was the most successful bowler for Canada Masters taking 2 for 31. Canada Masters in their response were 25 without loss after 3.2 overs when rain forced the abandonment of the game.
Those with
outstanding performances included Hyron Shallow of SVG Police Masters, who scored the most runs, 228, in the Fete Division. Al Pro Masters Deepak Kumar with 10 scalps topped the bowling in that Division. Hardeo Basant topped the batting in the Festival Division scoring 142 runs, while the Canadian Legends 50 Plus Masters duo of Imran Rajah and Rudy Gibson claimed 10 wickets each to top the wicket taking chart.
I.B.A. ALLEN
WEST INDIES WOMEN will make a welcome return to Test cricket after a 20year hiatus from the sport’s longest format.
This was confirmed on November 4, when the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced its line-up for the Blockbuster Women’s Future Tours Programme (FTP) for 2025-2029.
The women will reignite the region’s Test status when they play host to Australia for one match in 2026, 50 years after the Caribbean team made their Test debut against the Australians in 1976.
As per the FTP, England women play against the Windies in 2027 and this will be the first meeting between the squads in this format since 1979.
It was also confirmed that the WI women will travel to South Africa for an away Test in 2028.
The West Indies Women team that toured England in 1979. Standing 3rd from left is Vivalyn Latty-Scott,a Jamaica, who was the first West Indian women to take five wickets in a Test innings — 5 for 48 off 41 overs on debut against the Australians in Montego Bay, Jamaica, 1976.
WI women have not played a Test match since 2004. Their short record from four Test series stands at: a drawn two-match series against Australia in 1976; a 1-1- series draw against India in 1977; a 2-0 loss against England in 1979; and a drawn series against Pakistan in 2004.
The 1976 series match against Australia was the last time West Indies played a Test match at home. I.B.A. ALLEN
by HAYDN HUGGINS
A 17-YEAR-OLD BOYwho is accused of setting a 13year-old girl afire, was granted bail on Wednesday, despite strong objections from Prosecutor Devon Bute.
The teenager is charged with unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on the girl, with intent so to do. He was not required to plead.
The offense was reportedly committed on November 8.
When the accused initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, he was denied bail after prosecutor Renrick Cato
informed the court that the victim was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital with burns about the body.
The Accused was unrepresented then. He was remanded until Wednesday, but on returning on Wednesday, he was represented by lawyer Grant Connell.
Prosecutor Cato was not in court, but prosecutor Devon Bute objected to bail, stating that the victim was still a patient at the hospital suffering from third degree burns, and was being assisted by the nurses.
But Connell made an application for bail, stating that bail is
granted for manslaughter in which the victim is dead. He said that to continue to leave an accused person in prison on remand while the victim was hospitalized, was tantamount to him serving a prison sentence, and it is not a
condition to deny bail.
He suggested that bail be granted with conditions, and if the situation in relation to the victim got worse, there were checks and balances that could be put in place.
Senior Magistrate Colin John said that one
of the considerations of the court is that the accused is 17.
The youngster was granted $15,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Mesopotamia Police Station between 8:00a.m. and 8:00p.m. every Monday, and that he had no contact with the victim.
Bute responded, “I am looking at Stop Notices.”
But the Magistrate told him that there was no evidence of the possibility of him absconding.
Bute also requested that the accused be placed on a curfew, but John said that a curfew applied more appropriately to offences such as burglary.
The matter was adjourned to November 21 for a status report.
A sign clearly indicates that trucks are not allowed to use the bridge.
Stories by: DAYLE DA SILVA
DESPITE LAST WEEK’S PUBLIC APPEAL,trucks are still using the bridge over the Great Head river, that allows access to the throughway across the tarmac of the decommissioned airport at Arnos Vale.
Failure to adhere to the appeal has prompted Montgomery Daniel, Minister of Transport and Works, to make another appeal to truck drivers not to utilize the bridge, and for the police to patrol the area to ensure that the temporary no entry of trucks is obeyed.
Daniel said that he intended to meet with the police to urge them to be more vigilant in surveilling the use of the bridge.
Daniel, on November 6, said on radio that the structural integrity of the bridge had been compromised, and that while it was alright for light traffic to continue to utilize the river crossing, trucks weighing 2 tons or more were not allowed to traverse the route.
He continued, saying that a sign was placed at the Villa entrance to the bridge and that further precautions were taken in June, including the placement of a 9-foot overhead clearance bar.
The clearance bar was to ensure that trucks of a certain height and weight did not cross the bridge.
However, just after the clearance bar was installed, a truck knocked it down, Daniel said.
The driver was apprehended and agreed to replace the clearance bar, but a few days following, it was knocked down by another truck.
He spoke then of the consequences of the bridge collapsing, particularly during rush hour traffic on mornings entering Kingstown and on evenings, with traffic leaving.
“This action (non-compliance) is really not good for all of us,” Daniel said, adding, “It is not going to make any good sense that the total bridge collapses before work starts on that bridge.”
As he mentioned a week prior, the Office of the Chief Engineer was working with the National Road Rehabilitation Project (NRRP) which had accepted the project to undertake rehabilitative work
The bridge that has served the area for decades is showing signs of structural compromise, according to the Transport and Works Minister
expected to begin early 2025.
The Transport and Works Minister also said that in addition to the work to be done on the bridge, the entire stretch of road along the tarmac of the former ET Joshua Airport will also receive some attention
in keeping with the planned development in the area.
THE HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS AT Diamond will officially be opened tomorrow, November 16.
This marks a change in the initial opening date of the facility which was scheduled for November 19.
Montgomery Daniel, while speaking on radio on November 13 in the capacity of Prime Minister (Ag), announced the switch in the opening date.
He said that some “unforeseen circumstances” were to be blamed for the bringing forward of the opening event.
Although the facility will be opened on the 16th, it will accept its first guests on November 22, Daniel said.
And, based on the information he received, he said that the rooms were booked for the remainder of the year which included, it is understood, accommodating the Bangladesh and West Indies Cricket Teams for two T20I on December 16 and 18.
Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves, in an earlier statement, had expressed that this new addition to the room stock will play a pivotal role in
boosting local tourism, creating job opportunities, and setting a new benchmark in hospitality within St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
For his part, Daniel said, “We are happy that we are where we are at this time,” adding that St. Vincent and the Grenadines was now able to boast of having some of the big names in the hotel industry, including Sandals out of Jamaica and now the United States chain, Holiday Inn.
Daniel also referenced in this regard the Marriott that was now more than likely to come on stream in 2025.
In June 2022, the government signed a contract with NH International (Caribbean) Limited for the construction of a 92-room Holiday Inn Express facility with conference room. Construction cost was estimated to be EC$ 52 million with employment of up to 120 workers at its peak demand point.
At the signing of that contract, Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves disclosed that funding for the construction of the hotel would come partly through a grant from the Caribbean
Transport and Works Minister Montgomery Daniel has had cause to once again appeal to truck drivers to desist from using the bridge that provides access to the tarmac at Arnos Vale.
The opening of Holiday Inn Express at Diamond adds to the hotel room stock as government intensifies its drive to promote SVG as a choice tourist destination. (Photo Credit: Camillo Gonsalves)
Development Fund, financing from the National Insurance Services and some other local funds.
The construction was projected to be complete within 18 months, in time to meet the 2023 tourist season.
The project, in effect, failed to meet previously scheduled completion dates.
The Holiday Inn Express is the second public-private hotel investment. The Cobblestone Inn, Kingstown, is the other.