It was a buoyant and confident Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was voted and accepted to lead the party into the next general election.
Above right: As has been its strength. The party mobilized full attendance for its annual convention.
Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
DR. RALPH GONSALVEStold the Unity Labour Party (ULP) faithful at the party’s 26th Annual Convention held last Sunday, November 24, at the Campden Park Secondary School, that he was counting on party’s supporters to keep his administration in office for a sixth term.
He received overwhelming support to continue as leader of the party, and cited that one of the reasons why the Unity Labour Party must be reelected as the country’s “political stability.”
The Gonsalves-led Unity Labour Party (ULP)
Continued on Page 3
ULP MPS RETIRING
TWO UNITY LABOUR PARTY parliamentary representatives will retire from frontline politics. Party Leader, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told his party’s 26th Annual Convention held at the Campden Park Secondary School Sunday November 24, that Montgomery Daniel, parliamentary representative for
North Windward since 2001, and Frederick Stephenson, parliamentary representative for South Windward since 2010 were putting a cap on their active political careers.
There was also confirmation that Edwin Snagg, who has failed since 2001 to win the Southern Grenadines,
Continued on Page 3
Montgomery Daniel and Frederick Stephenson.
V News 3
ECLAC hosts entrepreneurial workshop
market but then they start to fade away — that is not what we want.”
TWENTY-FIVE LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS are now better equipped to make their businesses more successful and sustainable, following a week-long entrepreneurial training workshop which got underway on November 25. The workshop was organised by the Economic Commission of Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and specifically geared towards
equipping persons offering products and services within the tourism and hospitality sector, to build back stronger following the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/2021.
According to Michael Hendrickson, Economic Affairs Officer, Economic Development Unit — UN ECLAC, one of the ways to build back stronger was to promote entrepreneurship.
“So, we are looking at strategies that we could move forward within building back better in a sustainable way,” Hendrickson explained during the brief opening ceremony.
There was a serious challenge in terms of diversifying and restructuring economies across the Caribbean, he suggested, and added, “… this is something that we are looking at and
Continued from Frontpage.
was first elected to office in March 28, 2001, winning 12 seats to the New Democratic Party, 3.
That election was called after the 1998 election — NDP 8 seats to ULP 7 seats - spawned ULP-led unrests on the streets of mainland St. Vincent, the ULP acting on the fact it had received a majority of the public vote, declared that they could not accept the outcome of the election, and called for fresh elections.
Since 2001, the ULP has successfully retained its reins on government with victories in the 2005 (12-3), 2010 (8-7), 2105 (8-7), and 2020 (9-6) general elections.
Projecting towards the next polls constitutionally due by early 2026, Prime Minister Gonsalves told the
we are trying to enjoin you to look how your businesses not only to create jobs, but to also penetrate new markets and to earn foreign exchange.”
The workshop aimed to do two things, he said — provide a structural roadmap for those embarking on a new business enterprise, and for those who already had established businesses, to make them more effective and to enter new niche markets.
The overall challenge, Hendrickson said was to promote business continuity, growth and survival.
Hendrickson, citing the fact that over a quarter of businesses fail within the first five years of operation, cautioned, “Business failure is a real challenge, many small businesses start out very nicely, start to capture the
The idea was to support entrepreneurs by giving them practical things that they can take away and apply to their day-to-day operations.
Another aspect of the workshop was to grow business and selfemployment, this as Hendrickson noted that the government was the largest employer in too many Caribbean territories.
For example, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the government employed about 27 percent of the labour force.
“We need to find other avenues for people to employ themselves, to get into self-employment,” Hendrickson said.
And entrepreneurship was the best option and it also offered people the opportunity of unlocking their creative and productive energies, he contended. (DD)
Gonsalves returned as leader
large gathering, “History is bigger than you and me. Time can’t see but it can heal.”
Slipping into his spiritual cloak, Gonsalves pointed to the theme (‘Labour is workingForward to the sixth Term’) and shouted: “We ain’t reach Mt. Zion yet.
“This journey… it got many steps. You and I know that Labour is working,” and he projected that his party is heading for a sixth term.
“There is no alternative,” Dr. Gonsalves declared and noted, “This country has been stable for the past 24 years — there has been no confusion in government,” and there have been no resignations, nor dismissals.
In contrast he referenced, “even in the Opposition, there is confusion.”
For Dr. Gonsalves “You’re far better off than 2001. We’re on the right track,” and he predicted victory when general elections are held. “We are going to get a victory on a scale like we got in 2001,” he boasted but with an air of confidence.
For him, “this leadership depends on the genius of the people, energy and will, vision and skill. …. That is why our people are excelling in so many aspects,” and cautioned about a “tiny minority who we have to take away from the path of drugs and anxiety.”
And the he made a special appeal to parents to play their role in bringing up their children to “help to lift St. Vincent and Grenadines higher.”
For the Vincentian leader the
Labour Party has been the dominant force in Vincentian politics, and has been prominent for 28 years since the attainment of national independence in 1979.
“As our party evolves, we must pray not to leave behind an unfinished task,” Gonsalves stated. He explained the idea by suggesting: “this is not a case of leaving it to Ralph or the Cabinet.”
Dr. Gonsalves also reflected on accomplishments his government have made since being in office, citing” improvements in the delivery of education to include increasing the number of graduate teachers at schools; expansion in tourism facilities; assistance to farmers and fisher folks; opening the Sir Vincent Beache Stadium; enhancement of the Arnos Vale Playing Field for the 2024 International Cricket Council World Cup; construction of the Modern Port in Kingstown; building an Acute Care Hospital at Arnos Vale; enhanced salaries for civil servants; holding a CELAC Heads of Government meeting here; improvements in housing, roads, banking and helping persons with
measures.
ULP MPs retiring
will not put himself up as a candidate.
While a replacement has been settled upon for Daniel, in the person of Dr. Grace Walters, current Hospital Administrator at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, the convention gave no definite indication as to who might replace Stephenson and Snagg.
Indications are that there will be a new ULP candidate for West Kingstown, currently the domain of Daniel Cummings of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP).
The expressions at Sunday’s Convention gave the indication that Senator Keisal Peters is likely to challenge Cummings.
One can conclude, therefore, that the ULP is likely to field up to four new candidates in the next general election, constitutionally due by March 2026.
And while that is so, whether or not it was a Freudian slip or not, Dr. Gonsalves alluded to “keeping the nine (seats) that we have, and we’re going to add more to those nine come election 2025.”
cost of living
Solidarity greetings came from the St Lucia Labour Party. Cuban Ambassador Carlos Etcheverry, and Venezuela’s Francisco Perez Santana were among the dignitaries at the event.
Michael Hendrickson, Economic Affairs Officer, Economic Development Unit – UN ECLAC, while admitting business failure is a real possibility, he emphasized that this is not what we want in the Caribbean.
Continued from Frontpage.
Head of Venezuela’s diplomatic mission in SVG, Francisco Perez Santana (left) and Cuba’s Resident Ambassador to SVG- Carlos Etcheverry at last Sunday’s ULP Convention.
Edwin Snagg.
Second person charged in Peto murder
Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS
A SECOND PERSONhas been charged with the September 29, 2024 murder of 37-year-old Petit Bordel farmer- Othnel Curtel Lavia.
Jamarlie Delpesche, a 27-year-old labourer of Redemption Sharpes, whose lawyer, Grant Connell, told the court
was a father of three children, appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, after being charged with Lavia’s murder.
Delpesche was not required to plead when he stood before Senior Magistrate Colin John and was remanded.
Delpesche has been jointly charged with Iran Stapleton, also a 27-year-
old labourer of Redemption Sharpes, who had made his appearance at the Serious Offences Court on October 9, 2024, in connection with the matter.
Stapleton is the younger brother of 29year-old Rose Hall resident Stanron
‘Standpipe’ Stapleton, who was shot and killed at Petit Bordel, just a couple of days before Lavia fell in a blaze of gunfire in that community.
Lavia was gunned down around 2:00 am on September 29, while Stapleton was killed at about 10:42 pm on
September 27. Up to press time Thursday, Stapleton’s death was still under investigation.
Like his co-accused, Delpesche’s matter has been adjourned to December 5. Attorney Grant Connell is representing both men.
Murder accused slapped with traffic charges
JUST MINUTES AFTER Jamarlie Delpesche appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday after being charged with murder, he was taken to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court to answer to three traffic offences which the police happened upon during their investigations into the murder.
Appearing before Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie, the 27-year-old Redemption Sharpes man pleaded guilty to, while being the driver of motor vehicle P.1598, used it without being the holder of a driver’s license, without insurance, and without the relevant license for the period September 1, 2024 to February 2, 2025. He committed the offences on November 20, 2024.
The facts showed that on November 20, Constable 327 Samuel was among a party of police officers from the Chateaubelair Police Station on mobile patrol along the Rose Bank Road, when they observed motor vehicle
P.1598, a silver Toyota Vitz, travelling from the direction of Barrouallie towards Chateaubelair.
Acting on information received, the officers signaled the vehicle to stop, and the driver complied. He gave his name as Jamarlie Delpesche of Redemption Sharpes. The vehicle and its occupants were taken to the Chateaubelair Police Station where a complete search of the vehicle was done, but nothing illegal was found.
However, PC Samuel observed the license sticker displayed on the front windscreen, showing that the license was expired, ending August 31, 2024.
Samuel pointed out his observation to
Delpesche, who replied, “Officer, me ain’t know anything about that, is not my vehicle, ah borrow it from a brethren.”
When Samuel asked Delpesche for his driver’s permit, he responded, “Officer, me license get bun up.”
Checks were made at the Traffic Branch and the Inland Revenue System which showed that Delpesche was not the holder of a driver’s permit, and was driving without insurance.
The vehicle Delpesche was driving was found to be in breach of traffic regulations when it was stopped by police on November 20, during investigations into the September 29, 2024 murder of 37-year-old Petit Bordel farmer
Jamarlie Delpesche, comurder accused in the Iran Stapleton matter.Olan ‘Metal’ Lyscott still has to answer to the more serious charge of murder.
Othnel Lavia. He was fined $800 by January 30, or eight weeks in prison for driving without insurance.
For driving without the relevant license for the period September 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025, he was fined $250 by December 18 or three weeks, and for driving without a driver’s permit, he was fined $350 by December 6 or four weeks.
He was also handed a two-month suspended sentence.
Attorney Grant Connell represented Delpesche.
Other charges against
Lyscott dropped
DOUBLE MURDER
ACCUSEDOlan ‘Metal’ Lyscott had two charges of a different nature withdrawn at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
On November 5, the prosecution was given its final adjournment to Wednesday on the charges against the 20year-old Montrose/Layou man, for assaulting and using threatening language to Police Corporal Vertil Davis.
When Lyscott returned to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, his t’s lawyer-, Grant Connell said he was ready to proceed, but prosecutor Alister Stapleton told the court that the prosecution was withdrawing the charges. He indicated that the matter could be
brought back. Those charges stemmed from an incident at the Central Police Station on June 17, 2022, when Lyscott spat on Davis. He also told Davis, “I will meet all you on the road and (expletive) up all you.”
Following his court appearance, Lyscott was returned to His Majesty’s Prison, where he is remanded on two murder charges.
Olan ‘Metal’ Lyscott still has to answer to the more serious charge of murder.
He has been charged with the November 18, 2023 murder of Layou resident Leon ‘Zaccheus’ Gaymes, who was shot several times at his home on Texier Road, shortly after 8:00 pm. Lyscott is also charged with the murder of Delano ‘Smokes’ Patrick, a 33-year-old construction worker of Layou, who was shot and killed in his hometown around 1:00 am on October 15, 2023. He is additionally charged, stemming from the Gaymes murder, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit the offence of murder.
He is awaiting Preliminary Inquiries (P.I.) in relation to those matters.
Canouan3 months after Beryl
ONE HAS TO BE VERY OBSERVANTto notice that a Category 4 hurricane tore this small Grenadine Island apart, just three months ago. The rebuilding of housing stock damaged or destroyed by Beryl has been remarkable. The 15% or so left to be completed accounts for about a dozen people still living in a shelter and others with family or close friends.
One of the occupants at the lone official shelter in Grand Bay, who preferred to remain anonymous, noted that they have been without water for over a week, as the pump which is used to take the water from the reservoir to a holding tank has been inoperable, posing a serious inconvenience for
the more than 12 persons still living there. They anxiously await news that their homes are ready for their return.
The shelter has proper cooking facilities but the lack of running water is hampering daily living, not least the impact on sanitary conditions, especially as it relates to the disposal of human waste and personal hygiene.
As some homes receive finishing touches, the relative peace that characterises the island is interrupted by the sound of hammers and power drills securing roofing, and power saws cutting lumber to size. Blocked drains were also being cleared, as Canouan was recently impacted by several rainstorms, causing
topsoil to block some main drains and flooding in low lying areas close to the sea.
Both primary and secondary schools are operational, with close to 300 students attending classes regularly. Just the library and computer lab at the primary school are yet to be completed.
One of the main concrete tanks at the primary school has been refurbished, increasing the storage capacity of water for the growing numbers of students at both primary and secondary levels.
Just some minor electrical works and a few windows badly
damaged by Beryl are left to be completed at the old primary school.
The revenue office has been given a facelift and what is evident now is a palatial edifice, of which the workers ought to be proud. Just a few balusters are left to be installed before the upper floors are habitable again.
The teachers’ home, which caters to specialist teachers from the mainland, is also getting a much-needed facelift, making life a little more comfortable for these education professionals.
The small central market that was not severely affected by the storm was a hive of activity. The Police Station is nearing completion, as is the Health Clinic. VINLEC seemed to have had all mainlines restored with power and tower climbers for the telecoms service providers were at work, ensuring microwave antennas were properly aligned.
No visits were made to any of the resorts or airport on this visit due to time limitations.
A name that is mentioned ever so often as being involved with the restoration and rebuilding in Canouan is Hedge Fund mogul Ian Wace, who didn’t
hesitate to provide assistance not only to residents in Canouan, but also to other affected islands that bore the full force of hurricane Beryl.
Beryl claimed six lives in Union Island, and presumably sank “MV Guidance” from Canouan, with five souls on board. A memorial service is being planned before year end by the families of the lost sailors.
Canouan is taking on a fresh look and house owners are feeling a greater sense of security and assurance in their
new and stronger homes.
Most persons still have vivid memories of the experience with Beryl with many stating that they NEVER went through anything like it in their lifetime.
Yes, Beryl will be a bad memory, haunting many for some time to come, especially when the thunder rolls and it rains heavily. But, out of this ‘evil’, a greater good is emerging like the proverbial Phoenix … rising from the ashes!
Report submitted by: Donald De Riggs
Right: Thumbs up for a new and stronger roof.
6th Graders being prepped for CPEA. ‘Shelterees’
Clearing the main drain in Grand Bay, the main business center in Canouan.
Evening of Poetry & MusicÊ
AN EVENING OF POETRY AND MUSIC (AEOPAM) turned out to be a treat for those who attended its inaugural edition, held on Sunday 24th November, at the Peace Memorial Hall.
It was an evening, free of charge, that was filled primarily of readings by a group of young, Vincentian poets.
AEOPAM, the brainchild of Steve Wyllie, a retired Customer Services Manager with VINLEC and himself a published writer, was staged as part of Drama Month and featured readings of poems written by young, aspiring poets and works from renowned Vincentian poets like the late Tim Daisy and Elsworth “Shake” Keane.
The evening opened with prayer and singing of the national anthem, following which remarks were made by Sean Frederick from the Department of Culture.
From thence, Gloria Williams, MC for the evening’s programme, assumed the reins of control and moved seamless through introducing the poets, and providing summaries of each poem, following the reading.
The effectiveness of the MC contributed in no small measure to a programme that sailed smoothly along.
As for the recitals, each poet had his or her own style. While most of the work was free style poetry, reminiscent of both Shake Keane and Tim Daisy, there was a strong use of metaphoric language.
The audience showed how enthused they were with loud applause after each recital.
And while all the poets delivered with emotion, one deserving of special mention was Ms. Zenna Lewis. Even before she began her recital, Zenna invited the audience to “snap your fingers” instead of clapping. But her delivery was so emphatic and impactful, that there was no avoiding the spontaneous clapping, which she interrupted with a kind reminder to
“snap your fingers.” Then came the interactive segment — a Question and Answer segment. A song was played live by renowned keyboardist Willis Williams, and members in the audience were asked to name the song, identify the artiste and give the year the song was released. As expected, this segment generated quite some interest not to mention participation. Winners were rewarded with prizes that included a Christmas hamper, a case of malt, dinner at a well-known restaurant, and cash. This aspect is expected to be made a fixture going forward.
And there was still time for a crowning moment to the evening’s programme: a reading of his work by the activity’s instigator- Steve Wyllie. Known as one who prefers to have his work read by others, much of his work is found in his publication ‘The Village In Us’. He got his place in the programme going with a recital of one of his pieces- ‘The Forgotten Moon’. His portion was a precursor for recitals by seasoned local poets. The segment ended with a poem written in Spanish by Wyllie and recited fluently and flawlessly by Colin Sam, Headmaster of the St. Vincent Grammar School.
Other local poets who read Whyliie’s work were David ‘Darkie’ Williams and Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams.
Jennifer Ollivierre, Vincent Reid, Melani Hoyte, Marlon Joseph and Marcella Dublin also contributed to the evening’s recitals.
Barbara Soso brought a most enjoyable and revealing evening with a Vote of Thanks.
Contributed
by: Donald De Riggs
The man of the hourSteve Wyllie, reminding the audience about ‘The Forgotten Moon’.
Willis Williams, (right) played the songs for the interactive segment involving the audience.
Zenna Lewis had her audience snapping their fingers but couldn’t stop them clapping.
Views V
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Director: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: thevincentianpublishing@gmail.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Violence against women
LAST MONDAY, November 25, 2024 was International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, as declared by the United Nations.
The Day, observed globally since 1981, was formalized to honour the Mirabal sisters, three political activists from the Dominican Republic who were brutally murdered in 1960 by order of the country’s ruler, Rafael Trujillo (19301961).
Subject to correction, but the Day and its significant clarion call for focus on a sordid reality in our society - violence against women — seemed to have gone unnoticed, save and except for some public statements, two of which are carried on Page 7 of this issue of THE VINCENTIAN.
This is what, inter alia, SecretaryGeneral of the United NationsAntónio Guterres, had to say on the Day in 2023: “Violence against women is a horrific violation of human rights, a public health crisis, and a major obstacle to sustainable development.”
This is seamlessly applicable to the reality in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
As far as this country and the Caribbean as a whole is concerned, the issue, because it has become engrained in what we seemed to have accepted as a ‘cultural thing’, it is not going to go away with the wave of some magic wand.
The UN reports that the global cost of violence against women is huge, more than we might care to admit. It is estimated to be in the range of $UD 1.5 trillion or approximately 2 per cent of global gross domestic product.
Without empirical evidence, since we have not been able to access government records nor has such data been made public, we venture to say that we are represented by that global analysis.
But, our reality is that we might not be measuring or relating the impact of this disreputable act to anything that relates to a cost, because the impact of this scourge is often invisible or ignored. Given that it is so, and given the reluctance to report acts of violence against women, can we ever expect that the issue will be featured at the highest levels of the national agenda, far less
to have funds allocated for measures to combat it?
Truly, and regardless of how much our menfolk continue to believe and act out that it is their ‘God-given right’ to lay their hands on their womenfolk, there can be no excuses for violence against women and girls for that matter.
If the truth be told, we are up against a situation in our country wherein, and unfortunately so, violence against women has become ‘normalised’. Isn’t it that we go about our daily lives without even paying attention to the levels of violence that are perpetrated against women whether in private, public or more recently online?
Our reality is one in which the seeds of violence against women are nurtured from very early in our socialization, beginning in the classrooms, onto the street corners or blocks and ascending into boardrooms - yes, the boardroom of our business and political elites. Our menfolk are cultured to discriminate against women and they do so unwittingly as though it is a natural course of life’s events.
And then there is the issue of the popular culture — primarily our music — that at times openly support the sexualisation of women — perpetuating a negativity that is founded on a ‘culture’ of male entitlement over the bodies of women, Sadly, we admit, women are guilty of dallying into this ‘culture’, and opening themselves to male dominance. This, however, is not in any way an excuse far less justification for the violence that is unleashed against our women.
The solution to this scourge, though not exclusively, lies in unfettered, openly robust responses, not least being a meaningful investment in prevention.
It follows, therefore, that our education system (our education revolution) has a critical role to play in addressing the issue. The education system must be reoriented so that it raises awareness of gender related issues.
Is it too much today that given the prevalence of the issue at hand, to recommend that gender-related courses be made mandatory in the Teacher Education courses offered by the Community College?
And lest we forget: Silence is gender-based violence’s best friend.
SVG just got six square miles bigger
SO, WE FOUND LAND IN VENEZUELA for St. Vincent framers. I am not sure how this will work for us. The news release says thirty-five thousand acres were made available for Vincentian farmers. Is this a simple intervention to migrate to Venezuela to work on a joint venture between the governments of SVG and Venezuela?
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, this offer was also made available to us by the government of Guyana. So my question is, why not Guyana? Maybe it’s because, according to the Minister, this transformative proposal for agro-food sovereignty and development within the framework of ALBA-TCP and Petrocaribe.”
I want to understand how this agreement will work. For example: Will we be sending farmers to work on the farm? Will our government be purchasing the farm equipment? I am assuming Venezuela will contribute the land? Are we planning to sell the produce in Venezuela? How will we get our money out of Venezuela? Will we not have the exact foreign exchange issue as we do today because of the international sanctions? Maybe we will use the income from the farm to pay our outstanding debt for oil and gas. Will it be accounted for as a part of our GDP and towards our trade deficit? Will any produce be returned to SVG for sale on the local market? Is this how Minister Ceaser plans to reduce our food imports by 25% by 2025?
Without presuming too much too soon, I deduced from the Minister that this farm would produce crops that were not efficiently grown in SVG. At the risk of being accused of mixing unrelated issues, could this be described as another “hook in our gill?”
Especially when we were told we could do the same thing in Guyana, a fellow CARICUM Nation? I cannot help but wonder how the Venezuelan government would react if we brought our technical support team from Taiwan to the farm. After all, we know how dependent we have become on them for agricultural support.
So, allow me to step back and speculate on the factors driving us to this joint venture. SVG has suffered a series of recent natural disasters that have devastated our food production. We are worried that the impact of climate change will continue to leave us in a circular quandary of rinsing and repeating, so we must look for
alternatives. We must find a new way to produce, sell, and consume food. I am concerned that re-entering a largescale industrial-scale agriculture programme is not the answer. After all, large-scale agriculture is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. But let’s not get carried away. Our inability to feed ourselves began way before we started to feel the effects of climate change.
Our inability to feed ourselves began with the collapse of the mono-crop economy. No, we did not only eat bananas, but with a dependable source of revenue from bananas, we had the freedom to experiment with other crops. Many of us remember the 1980s when organizations like The Organizations for Rural Development (ORD) introduced a series of “exotic” crops like cauliflower, chickpeas, radish, asparagus, honeydew, etc. Do you remember when farmers in North Leeward planted bananas in the “mountain” and cauliflower, carrots, and peppers on the small plots closer to home? A few years after bananas were no longer viable, the production of these other crops also fell. And then, the exodus from the rural area and farming began. North Leeward is one of the few areas with abundant vacant houses today.
Over the last twenty years, we shifted our nation to an education revolution. We emphasized the need to get 10-15 CXC subjects. Education was sold to our children as a way out of rural farm living.
The reality today is that a significant amount of the world’s food comes from small farms, one to two acres. Small-scale farms are known to be more environmentally sustainable than large farms; they can more easily adapt to organic farming, biodiversity, and effective crop rotation.
And when rural agriculture thrives, the communities they serve thrive. Growth generated by agriculture is one sure way to reduce poverty and gross domestic product growth. I am not sure how this joint venture addresses this issue.
Horatio
End Violence against Women
NOVEMBER 25THis recognized and highlighted across the world as International Day for Ending Violence Against Women.
This year, the Day marks the launch of the UNITE campaign, i.e. sixteen (16) days of activism (November 25 to December 10) that brings together governments, civil society and the private sectors in a unified voice to advocate for the elimination of genderbased violence.
Significantly, the UNITE campaign ends on International Human Rights Day, December 10.
Violence against women and girls remains largely underreported due to stigma, shame, impunity surrounding it. It can manifest in sexual, physical and psychological ways that could include:
* sexual violence & harassment, rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse,
forced marriage, stalking, street and cyber harassment;
* human trafficking, slavery and sexual exploitation.
Launched in 1991 with the theme
“Unite to End Violence Against Women”, the initiative emphasizes the urgent need for perpetrators to be held accountable as “women’s rights are human rights”.
Perpetrators are not only abusing at home, but via social media.
Women have the right to live free from violence, both at home and online. Government, civil society and private sector agencies, therefore, need to work to eradicate societal structures and norms that violate women’s human rights.
There must not only be the enacting legislation, initiating policy and programmes, but there must be an accompanying, ongoing effort to ensure that Vincentians have knowledge of them, so that they can assist with their implementation.
SVG Network of NGO’s
Time to End the Violence Against Women
THE ESCALATING VIOLENCEand tragic killings of women across our nation demand immediate attention and action. These senseless acts of violence are more than personal losses; they strip away mothers, sisters, daughters and the very foundation that binds our communities. Women are the backbone of our society, nurturers, leaders and contributors in every sphere — and their safety and respect must be nonnegotiable. This crisis extends beyond individual cases; it exposes a societal issue that requires stronger, more decisive action. Far too often, penalties fail to reflect the gravity of these crimes, signaling that violence against women is not treated with the seriousness it deserves. We must champion legislative reform that prioritizes the protection
of women and ensures offenders are fully held to account.
The women’s Arm of the New Democratic Party stands united with every woman and family impacted by this violence. We are committed to fighting for justice, stiffer penalties and a society
that respects and protects women. It’s time for real change — because a safer future for women means a stronger, more resilient future for all.
New Democratic Party Women’s Arm
PEOPLE ARE ASKING:
Is Cane Garden, once the premier residential area in Kingstown and its environs, becoming a dump for derelict vehicles, especially heavy duty trucks? What is the Planning Unit doing about this?
Also, is any attention being paid to that (vehicle) body repair shop operating along that part of the Cane Garden route overlooking the Cruise Ship Terminal?
Are the Health Authorities not aware of the threat to people’s health by the chemicals the operation uses? And what about the traffic hazard that the operation creates, Mr. Traffic Department?
Has there ever been another time when so much “free money” was available in St. Vincent and the Grenadines? Where are we getting all this money to give away so freely?
Other than Grace Walters, Hospital Administrator of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, how many more Civil Servants are on the cards to contest the next general election?
When will that ‘Vaccine Mandate’ matter involving teachers and other public servants be settled once and for all? Is the government going to allow it to drag out until after the next general election?
Why is the NDP playing into the hands of the incumbent representative in West St. George?
ULP Convention 2024: A massive success
(Excerpt)
The Facts
ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 24, 2024, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) held its National Convention at the Bethel High School, Campden Park. The huge expansive hall at Bethel was jam-packed to overflowing with over 1,300 delegates present, inside, at the time when its Political Leader, Comrade Ralph, rose to speak at 11:40 a.m.; outside the hall, there were some 400 delegates, decked out in battle-red, who were unable to get in, but they stayed there all day.
It was an amazing turn-out of ULP comrades. The internal rules of the ULP call for 20 delegates per constituency, but the surge of political support for the party on the ground made those rules irrelevant. Every constituency in St. Vincent sent delegates way in excess of the number of required delegates. Even the two Grenadines constituencies exceeded the number of delegates, mandated by the rules.
There were particularly massive turnouts from the constituencies of North Leeward, South Central Windward, East St. George, North Windward, East Kingstown, Central Leeward, Marriaqua, North Central Windward and South Leeward. West St. George and South Windward recorded delegates almost three times the requisite constitutional numbers. The Humble African’s absence- he was away on state business — did not dampen the spirits or numbers from South Windward. Central Kingstown and West Kingstown had more than twice the requisite number of delegates.
Given the inclemency of the weather across SVG, which occasioned a later than advertised start of the Convention, the commitment, passion, and energy of the ULP comrades in their turnout were hugely impressive.
Of great significance were the large numbers of young delegates from every constituency. They provided a lift, and amazing energy, to the proceedings which buoyed the spirits of the older comrades. Overwhelmingly, women turned out to support their ULP which has delivered so much to women, their children, their families, and which promises to deliver more in the future.
At the “Open Forum” in the closed session of the Convention, twenty-four delegates spoke. They commended the ULP, Comrade Ralph and the Ministers on their excellent work for the people of SVG; they also raised queries about a number of issues, including post-Beryl housing, roads, and candidates for particular constituencies.
The “Open Forum” thanked Comrade Montgomery Daniel for his tremendous contribution to the people of North Windward and to SVG generally, especially in the areas of housing, lands, roads, bridges, education, health, and social protection.
Emerging Faces
At the Convention, two outstanding stars emerged in the people’s affection – Dr. Grace Walters of North Windward and Keisal Melissa Peters of West Kingstown. They joined the pantheon of other ULP stars: Comrade Ralph, Montgomery, Curtis, Saboto,
Camillo, Orando, Carlos, Gustus, Jimmy, Grenville, Benarva, Shackell, and Ashelle – a veritable galaxy for the present and the future. It was great to see at the Convention Chevonne Stewart, a distinguished health professional from the Southern Grenadines, who hails from the Stewart family in Union Island and the De Roche family in Canouan; she mingled well with the delegates from the Southern Grenadines. So, too, was the presence of Rodan John, a young man from South Windward and on the staff of the Community College, who is completing the field work for his PhD in information technology/computer science at a university in Taiwan; he holds a Bachelors and Masters degree in these subject areas; the delegates from South Windward interacted well with him. The popular Marvin Fraser of Paul’s Avenue, former president of the SVG Football Federation, who assisted in mobilising delegates from Central Kingstown, sent a warm message to the party’s leadership; he was unwell and could not attend. Carlos Williams of the Northern Grenadines whose yeoman endeavours in Bequia, post-Beryl, came in for high commendation from the delegates of the Northern Grenadines. And the young veteran, Rhodes Scholar, economist, mathematician, and lawyer, Luke Browne, beamed with delight among the delegates from East Kingstown.
Before the end of January 2025, it is expected that most, if not all of the candidates, would be formally endorsed in the relevant councils of the ULP.
The Political Leader, in his comments in the closed session, predicted that Grace Walters and Keisal Peters would ignite, big time, the ULP’s election campaign. This “Amazing Grace” has been in service to the people of North Windward and SVG for over twenty years as a Staff Nurse, specialist in Midwifery, and Hospital Administrator. She holds a Masters Degree in Nursing, a Masters Degree in Nursing Administration, and a PhD in Hospital Management. The people of North Windward are saying “Gomery had led us safe thus far, and Grace will lead us home.”
Keisals Peters who hails from the bosom of the working people excelled at Girls’ High School, the University of the West Indies, and the Hugh Wooding Law School. She practiced law successfully for ten years at the esteemed Law Chambers of Stanley “Stalkey” John before joining the ULP government in 2020. She is a talented singer and convivial personality. She distinguished herself as Foreign Minister for nearly four years, and is now doing impressive work as Minister of National Mobilisation, post-Beryl. She has Daniel Cummings on the ropes in West Kingstown; he hysterically attacks this beautiful black woman, an exemplar of our Caribbean civilisation, in the most demeaning and crazy manner. Cummings will pay for all this next election.
The ULP’s electoral slate for 2025 is shaping up as among the best ever offered to the people of SVG!
ULP has no answers to the cost of living crisis: NDP will fix it
THE COST-OF-LIVING CRISISin St Vincent and the Grenadines is having serious financial impact on Vincentians. The New Democratic Party (NDP) has been consistent in highlighting the issue, and, has promised that it will tackle cost-of-living crisis when it is elected to government.
Vincentians are experiencing severe hardship. It is extremely difficult to pay higher prices whenever they shop. This is compounded with a number of other issues. For example, St Vincent and the Grenadines has the lowest wages in the Caribbean. Salaries for most people are insufficient to pay bills, send their children to school, pay their mortgages, pay for their cars and buy food. Our unemployment rate is the highest in the region and poverty has increased since the ULP has gained power which make it more difficult for persons to survive. As cost-of-living increases, our standard of living falls. Life has become more difficult for families,
The issue of food insecurity also contributes to the problem of the high cost-of-living. The Minister of Agriculture alluded to that problem of food insecurity earlier this year. It means that Vincentians have to import more, including agricultural produce that can be grown here. When we import, consumers have to pay more for those products. What is the Minister’s plan to deal with this problem? To send Vincentians to Venezuela to cultivate land? It was reported that St Vincent and the Grenadines has signed an agreement with Venezuela where 25,000 acres of land have been made available for Vincentians. Is this for real? It is such a stupid idea. The problem in this country is not the lack of land. Lands are available to work. The problem is the poor policies of the government which have forced farmers away from the land.
It would appear that the ULP government is taking the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines for granted. It is not implementing any meaningful measure to tackle the cost-of-living crisis in the country. At the ULP’s Convention on Sunday, one would have expected the leader of the ULP to address this critical issue. But, he did not. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said that the NDP’s proposal to reduce VAT would be too expensive, but he failed to offer any proposals as to what his government will do to address the cost-of-living crisis. Yet, he is asking Vincentians to vote his party for another term.
The NDP has taken the issue of the cost-of-living crisis seriously. As a result, we have established a cost-ofliving tracker. Recently, we provided an update to the cost-of-living tracker. It shows the price of a basket of goods has increased significantly over the last year.
Speaking about the cost-of-living tracker, Parliamentary Representative for East Kingstown, Dwight ‘Fitz’ Bramble said, “I can’t see how any government can sit around and do nothing while we see double digit increases to the prices of everyday goods. The ULP government needs to do something meaningful to make real change for ordinary people. The NDP has proposed a cut in VAT, targeted
reduction in import duties and increases in support for ordinary people. This is real action that we will deliver for ordinary people. We are not looking good when it comes to cost-of-living. We are not looking good when it comes to real action. This is a government that is happy to play politics but is not interested in delivering for ordinary Vincentians.”
In a pre-recorded video, MP Bramble outlined the increases in costs of a range of everyday goods. He said, “Chicken wings have increased by 40%, sardines have increased by 50%, powdered milk has increased by 39% and cooking oil increased by 50% over the last year.”
We have also seen an increase in the fuel surcharge to this month’s VINLEC bill when compared to last month’s. This month the fuel surcharge is $0.6108 when compared to last month’s $0.5201. We have been hearing the announcements on radio recently of the areas where VINLEC will be doing disconnections. Something unheard of in the past. It is obvious that as a result of any increase to VINLEC bills, one can expect that the business operators will pass it on to the consumers.
The Way Forward
At the heart of tackling this crisis, is the need to create more and better paying jobs for everyone in this country. It is only by increasing wages we can help people across the country enjoy a better standard of living, and insulate them from the worst of this cost-of-living crisis. We need resolved and focused leadership to tackle this challenge, something that is lacking in the ULP government. The NDP has a committed team with an honest leader who has a vision and plan to improve the standard of living in this country. Vincentians deserve better. We have been suffering for too long.
Our people need support now. We have outlined a plan that will provide support to Vincentians to help tackle the cost-of-living crisis. The NDP’s plan include:
* Reduce VAT from 16% down to 13%;
* Reduce the Customs Service charge, ‘The Big Tax on Everything’;
* Increase support for lower income families;
* Reduce the impact of the fuel surcharge on VINLEC bills;
* Review the list of VAT items with a view to increasing the number of zero-rated items.
The government has not done enough to address this crisis. We call on the government to implement meaningful measures to reduce the cost of goods to the benefit of Vincentians. The time for action is now. The NDP will address this issue. We have always prioritised the national interest ahead of any political or public relations considerations. This government is definitely out of touch with the needs of the people.
Views
V Resolving Conflicts
Constructively
“Resolving conflicts constructively is the most critical of team skills” – Dr. Alicia S.M. Leung
THE WORD “CONFLICT” is derived from the Latin root that means “to strike together”. It describes any situation where there are incompatible activities, feelings, or intentions. However, we should note that conflicts are not necessarily bad. Conflicts will emerge wherever people congregate in our homes, neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces, and even in our church assemblies. There are no two individuals who are exactly alike, and because of this, we will not always share the same opinions about a variety of issues and topics. While this is true, it is important that we seek to manage and resolve conflicts in a speedy and responsible manner.
Conflicts can be (and often are) quite distressing. Its impact can vary depending on the individuals involved and the intensity of the situation. Conflicts can create and/or fuel emotional turmoil, anxiety, uncertainty, and feelings of alienation or isolation. The physical, mental, and emotional strain can be intense and the outcome, if the situation remains unresolved, can appear to be quite devastating. However, conflicts often offer opportunities for growth and understanding when resolved constructively. Handled maturely and responsibly, conflict resolutions can strengthen relationships and foster enhanced communication. In this regard, it is important to consider the importance of active listening skills, empathy, collaboration, and a desire to seek winwin outcomes as efforts are made to resolve the impasse.
Dr. Steven Covey (1932-2012), the American educator, author, motivational speaker, and businessman, advocates that active listening (i.e., with the intention of understanding) is considered to be one of the most important tools in conflict resolution. He notes that rather than simply hearing what the other person is saying, active listening requires engaging fully with their words and emotions. He further explains that by focusing on the speaker, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing their points, the listener portrays respect and a genuine desire to understand the other person’s viewpoint. Such an approach requires patience and maturity but is guaranteed to assist in defusing tension by making the other person feel respected, valued, and appreciated. Many of today’s most accomplished managers and leaders in business, government, and society are known to have developed superb active listening skills. Such individuals do not limit their listening to the words that are being shared. They also pay attention to nonverbal cues such as body language, tone of voice, and modulation in speech. These delicate involuntary signs often reveal underlying emotions that words may not fully express. By tactfully acknowledging these delicate undercurrents, individuals can better understand and appreciate the content of the conflict as well as its emotional dynamics and hidden sensitivities. Such awareness can go a long way towards creating and sustaining solutions. Empathy must be considered an imperative if we are to resolve conflicts constructively and amicably; it is that ability to put ourselves in another person’s shoes. It also helps to understand and appreciate that we are
not perfect and will periodically make mistakes. When that happens, we value those individuals who demonstrate an understanding and forgiving spirit. In a similar manner, we should be prepared to build and rebuild emotional bridges when misunderstandings occur. Such an approach will make it easier for productive, non-threatening, dialogue.
Within recent times we have seen a plethora of books and articles focusing on emotional intelligence. Many of these publications stress the importance of selfawareness and patience as efforts are made to engage in objective assessments of self and those around us. It is imperative to understand and appreciate that the other person’s viewpoint may be different to our own but could be just as valid. Many inter-personal tensions can be diffused when people feel understood and appreciated even if/when there are vast differences in religious beliefs, political affiliation, sexual preferences, and so on.
Constructive conflict resolution should therefore be more focused on collaboration and less on confrontation. It must not be viewed as an argument or battle to be won but more as an opportunity to co-create workable solutions; working together for the common good. We all have rights to our opinions and should be respected for expressing these in a non-confrontational and respectful manner. Objectivity and being open to compromise must be seen as critical to successful, amicable, resolutions of conflicts. Mutual respect and collaborative mindsets must be viewed as valuable components in the conflict resolution formula. The objectivity required will aid participants to be more focused on the challenges and issues and less on personalities. Such an approach is likely to reduce blamethrowing and defensiveness. Conversely, it encourages cooperative thinking.
It is important to seek to resolve conflicts early and thereby avoid further complications and escalations. This is especially critical if multiple parties are involved. Seeking win-win solutions will always be advisable. This is considered critical as efforts are directed at seeking to have participating individuals or parties exit the arena with their dignity intact. This may not always appear to be possible and may be especially so when there appears to be great misalignment in relation to the participants’ variations relative to expected outcomes. Such an approach requires maturity as efforts are made to find a mutually acceptable resolution that maintains relationships while simultaneously addressing the participants’ major concerns.
In summary, while conflicts are inevitable, every effort must be made to ascertain the root cause of the discrepancy as we maintain a focus on having healthy relationships in our homes, neighbourhoods, and workplaces. We can do so by encouraging active listening, cultivating empathy, and seeking collaborative/win-win outcomes. It is also important to recognize that even the most stressful conflicts can provide opportunities for growth and understanding. Such an appreciation and approach will better position us for resolving conflicts constructively.
Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
Labour is not working for you
‘Without dissent, there can be no truth because truth emerges from a conflict of ideas and not from an imposition of ideas from one side or the other in a particular debate.’ Lord Jonathon Sumption, a former member of the UK Supreme Court.
THE GOVERNMENT has a new slogan entitled ‘Labour is working.’ Anyone who needs proof that this labour government is not working for most citizens must only read the party’s column published in last Friday’s edition of the News and THE VINCENTIAN newspapers. ULP’s ‘shittiness’ is splattered all over the pages.
Don’t believe me? Here’s proof: ‘In SVG today, there is the lowest-ever unemployment, lowest-ever poverty, lowest-ever indigence, and lowestever homelessness. There is more work to be done in SVG than ablebodied and willing workers to do the available jobs.’
No serious observer of Vincentian reality will opine that we have the lowest ever anything except for political hygiene. Youth unemployment is over 40 percent, while 4 out of every ten citizens live in poverty. Hope and optimism about the future are at an all-time low. Therefore, the person who scribbled this drivel is not only insulting our intelligence. Punch drunk with power, the author has become accustomed to pissing on our collect heads and calling it showers of blessing. Enough!
The ULP, which has abandoned any pretence of decent governance, is now content with transactional arrangements of state affairs to ensure maximum effect as the elections draw nearer. There is a mad scramble to do everything at once, even as Gonsalves and his clansmen proclaim that the country does not have the manpower, equipment and human resource capacity to get it all done.
The government is piling on projects to create a false sense that big things are happening, so that its leader can beg for a sixth term with the infantile utterance that ‘man must finish way man start.’ You would be damn stupid if you stayed in a verbally and physically abusive relationship.
The ULP column ‘Massive Changes for the Better St Vincent’ correctly declared the party’s intention. The closing subheading says Labour is working to a sixth term. The party wants to maintain power so as to continue to feather the nest of the leader, and his big-shot friends. It wants to continue with its corrupt practices, stifle good governance, and hinder the emergence of democratic best practices.
But the people must not let them. The people must prepare to break the undistinguished spell that Gonsalves and his clansmen have on this country. The shelf life of the ULP government has long passed its due date. Anything less than this administration’s departure will be a betrayal of our youths, dependent children, and generations unborn.
Any leader who boasts that his borrowing/debt policy is intended to place a ‘hook in the gill’ of the nation he rules is unfit to govern. Clearly, he has signalled to the world that his utterances about sovereignty and independence are empty, meaningless bluster. Once he continues to suck on
the honeycomb of power, to hell with the Albatros, a mounting debt burden ($3 billion and counting) placed on the nation.
‘Labour is working,’ says the ULP. This party is oblivious to the daunting problems citizens, especially the poor, unemployed and vulnerable, face each day. Three years ago, the Gonsalves regime imposed the evil and dreaded vaccine on the nation. Has the party leadership ever spared a thought for the daily suffering of the hundreds of people who were dismissed and lost their jobs and livelihoods following the enforcement of the draconian vaccine policy?
Labour says it’s working, but the country’s infrastructure is falling. Schools, police stations, clinics, and other public buildings are in a perpetual state of rut. A forest has overgrown the community centre at Penniston, while the all-suffering youth of Campden Park await the opening of the centre rebuilt more than five years ago.
Labour says it’s working, but the young people are not smiling. The grass on the playing fields is rarely cut, and too many hard courts are cracked.
Millions of dollars are earmarked for this venture and more millions for that project, yet on any given day, large groups of young men and women loiter on streets and in villages across the land.
Over the last three years, the government has earmarked almost $300 million for road reconstruction and repairs. Yet people wait in vain for proof that the money is being spent because the roads remain festooned with deep craters and potholes.
This labour government is probably the most anti-labour government since universal adult suffrage in 1951. Of all the banks, the government-owned BOSVG singularly refused to honour back pay obligations to its employees as mandated by the governmentappointed Wages Council. Some of the poorest and most vulnerable state employees (daily paid) go for weeks without a salary, without even a murmur from state officials. Labour is not working. Labour is failing.
A working labour government will pay urgent attention to our exploding homicide and crime problem and do something meaningful to arrest the situation. Rather than describe police as angels, it must ensure that police officers respect and end the brutal treatment often meted out to those they swear to protect and serve.
With the empty slogan, ‘Labour is working,’ the government is banking on its demented notion that our people are loving, forgiving, and have short memories. With our words, actions, and votes, we owe it to ourselves to remember not to forget our overlords’ misdeeds. They are committed to buying the next election much like they bought the 2020 contest. Citizens must be up to the task. Up to the count of votes on election night, the mantra must be: ‘eat dem out, drink dem out and vote dem out.’
ÂEvil stalks the landÊ
IF THIS COUNTRYdoesn’t have the most churches per square mile in the Caribbean, we are not far off that record. It seems wherever we turn, there is a church with a pastor preaching about the power of the Lord and calling on us to turn to Him.
And while I would want to say out loud that this country was built on sound morals and a fear and respect for things as bestowed by the teachings of our Saviour Jesus Christ, I will be the first to admit that something has gone wrong with us.
Look around, we have allowed all kinds of corruption, immorality, bloodshed, violence, and murder to creep into our small nation.
Yes, my people, we have allowed evil in all its forms to take a hold of our nation. We are quick to point fingers at corruption in our political system, even in our churches. We hear of all sorts of things about Satanism, obeah. We turn blind eyes to sexual immorality,
including fornication, adultery and paedophilia.
I ask myself as we sink deeper into a pit of sinfulness, do we still have reverence for God or respect for lives?
We seem to take everything for a joke even when evil stares us straight in the face. It’s like we can no longer tell the difference between what is evil and what is good.
And yes, my people, we are to blame for all the evil that walks this land, not Dr. Gonsalves, not Dr. Friday, but each and every one of us who proclaim to be God-
fearing. Time for us to repent. Time for us to admit that we have done wrong and turn to the only one who can save us… no politician, no preacher, only God the Almighty through His son, Jesus Christ.
Struggling to be God-like.
Eat local –
avoid
foreign goods
DOES ANYBODY ELSEsee a contradiction in our government ministers, especially our Agriculture Minister, calling on us to eat more of what we grow, while they can dash off to some hotel here or abroad and enjoy the latest in European cuisine and the likes?
I recall a certain Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism who relished in the courtesy of “free lunches’ accorded him. He reaped, should we say, good and filling rewards by fraternising a different hotel on each working day of the week, his work schedule permitting. I say all of that to say that it’s all well and good to ‘eat local’, the other thing is to make that call and have little regard for the fact that our tastes have change. All the television, the fancy hotels have led us to savour things foreign. So, for example, we prefer tuna a tin’ than getting down to the fish market to but some fresh yellow fin tuna. And our relative overseas make certain that we have all the tuna, chopped ham and what have you when they send the barrels. So tell me, Mr. Minister, there is nothing wrong about encouraging us to eat local but it’s another thing when those local things are priced beyond our reach. When was the last time you bought fresh tomatoes? We don’t grow tomatoes all year round, so supermarkets import or we turn to diced tomatoes in a tin, imported of course.
Yes, we will buy and consume locally produced flour and drink glass loads of our String Rum, but tell me: How much of what we produce or grow is available all year round and affordable?
One thing to talk about decreasing the food import bill, another thing trying to change habits and tastes that we have cultivated.
Thomas
IHS alumni in action
Some members of the HIS Alumni Group in the USA who contributed to the donation to the Salvation Army (L-R standing): Garry ‘Tunka’ Edwards Asst. Chairperson), Vlada Joseph, Vernis Preddie-John (Secretary), Millicent Phillips, Harriet Preddie-Mandley, Lavern Williams and Arnold Billinghurst (stooping).
THE INTERMEDIATE HIGH SCHOOL (IHS) Alumni Reunion Group is ramping up activities as they moved towards hosting the first-ever Intermediate High School Alumni Centenary Reunion carded for October 2025.
The IHS, familiarly referred to as ‘Timmy School’, in respect of Bertrand ‘Timmy’ Richards who was the school’s longest-serving Principal and
visionary, will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, 2025.
Several activities have been planned to mark the centenary, but even before that, hurricane Beryl prompted several past students living in the USA into action. They put together a number of barrels of new/used clothing and food items which were donated to the Salvation Army in St. Vincent and
the Grenadines.
The idea to assist the Salvation Army was conceptualised by alumna Vernis Preddie-John, current Secretary of the IHS Alumni Reunion Group, supported by Gary ‘Tunka’ Edwards, Vlada Joseph, Millicent Phillips, Harriet Preddie-Mandley, Laverne Williams, Arnold Billinghurst, Teckla TelesfordRichards and Julian Jack among others.
Ms. Preddie-John, who lives in Boston, Massachusetts, filled two barrels with toiletries, non-perishable foodstuff clothing, pillowcases and shoes among other things, then journeyed to Brooklyn NY where other past students contributed to the shipment, which is due to arrive in SVG before the Christmas season.
Next year, 2025, being the centenary year, several activities have been planned to mark the occasion. The Intermediate High School itself has a calendar of activities planned, while the
group of alumni of the IHS have also planned a week of activities, coinciding with the 46th anniversary of this country’s Independence from Britain.
Among the activities planned are a walk from the old “Timmy School” in Middle Street to the current location at Mc Kies Hill; an ecumenical service for all alumni and a social evening that would allow past and present staff and students to dine, socialize and renew acquaintances. This will be the first IHS alumni reunion in the school’s history.
Many of the Alumni Reunion Group would have attended school in this building, once the proud Intermediate High School facility.
Submitted by Donald De Riggs and Vernis Preddie-John
Entertainment News
Season of Vincy Music
ITS ONCE AGAIN “BREADFRUIT SEASON” when the airways and concerts are given over to the appreciation and consumption of Vincentian Entertainment products.
It is Christmas time again in Vincy Land, celebrated in Vincy style.
And as has become the tradition at this time of the year, several Vincentian recording/performing artistes have released music in the style and rhythm we refer to as “Vincy Parang”.
Releases so far include Roland
“Legalise cannabis,”
Junior Gong
DAMIAN
‘JUNIOR GONG’ MARLEY, SON OF music legend Robert ‘Bob’ Marley, is advocating for more Caribbean countries to remove restrictions around the use of marijuana.
During his appearance on Night Two of the World Creole Music Festival in Dominica on October 26, the 46-year-old, who has been an advocate for the use of marijuana in both religious and personal use, said the plant known as cannabis, has an array of medical benefits that can heal many of the illnesses faced by humans today.
Damian ‘Junior Gong’ Marley has been careful in his call to legalise cannabis, limiting his call for to religious and personal use.
“Rollie” Bowman with “Christmas is here once again” and his brother Dennis with “Ah want me baby back. Both songs are arranged in part by Kamal Archibald.
Seeming prepared to get out of the blocks early was our soca artiste, cum Consul General in New York — Rondy “Luta’ McInrosh, with a release entitled “We coming home”, which was billed as a tribute to Promoter Soca Jones of blessed memory.
Not to be outdone, Mr. Christmas himself, Carlton ‘CP’ Hall released “De
The younger Marley has several songs dedicated to marijuana, including “Medication” which he performed with his older brother Stephen Marley at the festival.
He expressed gratitude to the Dominican government for amending drug possession laws in 2020, which decriminalised possession of up to 28 grams of marijuana and allowed the cultivation of three cannabis plants at home.
Possession of small
amounts of marijuana has been decriminalised in over 7 Caribbean countries including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and St Kitts and Nevis and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
It is however illegal in The Bahamas, Guyana, Cuba, The Dominican Republic, the Dutch Caribbean, Grenada, Haiti, and Suriname.
The governments of Guyana and The Bahamas have indicated plans to amend drug control laws to decriminalise marijuana use, specifically for religious ceremonies conducted by the Rastafarian community. (Source: Loop News)
One Man Parang Band “, giving encouragement to young soca artiste Ozarie to release one entitled, “Spending my money”.
Also due to be released soon is an instrumental collection of seven Christmas Songs by pannist extraordinaire- Saeed Bowman, who disclosed his intention so to do during a recent episode of the CTVIEW Saturday Show, hosted by this part time contributor to THE VINCENTIAN. (Carlyle Douglas)
Saeed Bowman makes a break for the Bowman family will release a collection of Christmas songs as interpreted by him on pan.
Stop playing games
Dear George,
I SUGGESTED TO MY WIFE that we have a female friend of her choice join us in bed, to inject some excitement in our marriage. It was a shock when she readily agreed.
A day after our get together, she stunned me with a suggestion of hers. She wanted a male of my choice to sleep with her. No way am I going to let a male sleep with my wife; she may just develop an ongoing relationship with this guy.
I tried to explain to her that when we agreed to what I had suggested I did not think she was coming with a request of her own. Her response? Either I get on with it or she would have no choice but to get a guy of her own. I told her it is not the same thing for men as it is for women, but she is having none of it!
I do not know what to do at this point in time.
Earl.
Dear Earl,
It was a terrible idea in the first place to introduce a third party into your marriage/relationship. This is a sure recipe for the demise of the marriage.
As far as the arrangement you agreed to is concerned, you must understand that it was you who opened that door and now you do not walk through it.
I suggest both of you see a marriage counselor. These sessions can help you (both) to sober up and quit playing this marriage-killing game, in the name of marital excitement.
George.
An old boyfriend
Dear George,
MY WIFE SAW NO PROBLEMwith her visiting an old boyfriend who was visiting from New Jersey. He was staying in a hotel and invited her to visit in the evening hours. George, we argued over this for two days, but she eventually went to see him. She left at 12 noon and didn’t return until 2 am the next morning. When confronted, she insisted she did not have to give an explanation, and that I should be able to trust her. I could not believe she was talking about trust!
The incident has wedged in our relationship, and I see no turning around until she comes clean about her visit. Something is not right.
Suspicious Husband.
Dear Suspicious Husband,
Couples should be able to trust each other and avoid creating reasons for doubts that question the fidelity of one another.
Your wife certainly created doubts and did
the marriage no favours with her decision to see her old boyfriend and to spend so much time with him.
You both need to talk this through so that this does not repeat itself.
George.
Thanks, George
Dear George,
MY COUSIN had a situation where she was in an abusive relationship, and she ended up writing to you for advice. The advice you gave her was spot on and she ended up leaving him. He later went to prison for inflicting physical harm on another female. The advice also helped me with my own situation and right now I am living free from fear and a controlling partner. Continue to do the wonderful job that you are doing. There are many people out there
who have no one to turn to and in the end, they reach out to you.
Grateful.
Dear Grateful,
Thank you for those kind sentiments. I am happy I was able to help you and your cousin. There are persons who do need help but they never reach out for different reasons.
Continue to be a support system to your cousin and others as best as you can.
George.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20)
Friends may not understand your situation. Self-deception about relation ships is a problem. You will have a little more energy than usual. Your determination and stamina will make your work look flaw less and effortless.
TAURUS (Apr. 21 - May 21)
You will do well with clients this week. Get busy. Try to make amends by planning a nice dinner for two. False information from someone trying to start problems is likely.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21)
Your words will be taken out of context if you're evasive with coworkers or employers. Don't divulge secret information. Residential moves will be favorable. You should make special plans for you and your lover.
CANCER (June 22 - July 22)
Problems with in-laws may cause friction in your personal relationship. Limitations on the home front can be expected if you have been restricting your mate's freedom. Changes regarding your career direction will payoff handsomely. Your obviously unique way of doing things has caught the eye of someone in a higher position.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22)
Residential changes, renovations, or moves are likely to disrupt your routine. Do not get involved in joint financial ventures. A friendship might suffer if money becomes an issue. Don't get involved in secret affairs or underhanded involvement's.
VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23)
Someone you live with will get angry if you are neglecting your duties. You may find that your boss is not delighted with your work lately. Your accomplishments could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure. Difficulties with females you live with could cause emotional stress.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23)
Chances are you could get stuck with a colleague's job unexpectedly. Make the necessary changes that will enable you to advance financially. Take care of any paperwork concerning institutional or governmental agencies. If you're feeling uncertain, spend some time alone and reevaluate your motives as well as your needs.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22)
Social activities that involve the whole family will be enjoyable. You will impress others with your initiative and ability to accomplish while on short business trips. This will not be the day to lend money to friends or family. Your temper could get the better of you if you confront personal situations.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21)
You have been going through a period of change that no doubt caused problems with your loved ones. You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. There are ways of making extra cash if you put your mind to it.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20)
Your temper may get the better of you if a colleague has tried to ruin your reputation. Don't let individuals with wild schemes talk you into a financial deal that is not likely to be successful. You can easily impress others with your generous nature.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 - Feb. 19)
You may have difficulty trying to get your mate to understand your position. Your passionate nature may make you jealous if your mate has been too busy to take care of your needs. You will enjoy interaction with others this week. Romance appears.
PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20)
Upheavals may occupy your day. Don't be too confident that coworkers are on your side. Past partners are likely to reappear. Try to keep to yourself; work diligently on domestic chores and responsibilities.
ACROSS
1.Long bath 5. Ostracize 9. Ken’s ex 11. Desert springs 13. Picks a politician 14. Certain exams
16. Clothes 17. Tax expert (abbr.)
19. Particle
20. Insurance’s PPO alternative
21. Store up 23. Musician Rawls
24. Walks in 26. Great Sphinx location
28. Model Carol 29. Hong Kong
30. Salivate, like a St. Bernard 33. Liquefied 36. IM provider
37. President after Bush 39. Bachelors
41. Naturalist John 43. Cable network 44. Dalton of “Falcon Crest” 45. Is jealous of 47. Comedic actress Bea __ 49. Intensity 50. Clown Kelly 51. Bawdy 52. Actress Dawber et al.
DOWN
1.New Testament dancer 2. Salem’s state 3. Rudiments 4. Young fox 5. Until now (2 wds.) 6. “Bali __” 7. Annapolis inst. 8. Tidily 9. One of Alcott’s
“Little Women” 10. Accompany 12. Cutter 15. Filth 18. Dads 21. “__ Mary Lou” 22. Singer Reese 25. Truth, in China
27. Clean a fish 29. Hen, for one 30. __ Margot Fonteyn 31. Spherical
THE NORTH LEEWARD LOG ENTERPRISES Supreme Bleach 10k brought out the numbers, as over forty participants were part of the event held last Sunday, November 2024.
The event included a Primary Schools category, which did not feature in the Georgetown event that took place on October 13.
Tiana Duncan of Biomechanics copped the Girls Primary Schools’ title in 17:23.00, ahead of Julissa Bowens of Chateaubelair Methodist in 17:43.00 and Tajah Bowen of Chateaubelair
Methodist, third in 18:26.00.
The Primary Boys category was copped by Caleb Porter, Westwood Methodist School, who took 11:17.00 to reach the finish line, leaving Christifer Pierre of the Fitz Hughes Government to settle for second in 13:25.00. and Jawansa Lampkin of Chateaubelair Methodist, third, in 13:40.00.
Meanwhile, Ayah Stapleton of High Performance won the Girls Under-16 in a time of 30:24.00. Her teammate, Afiya Thomas, was second in 32:22.50 and third was Nyra Deshong of Mustangs in 37:18.00.
Mickal Stapleton of Mustangs took the Boys Under-16 in 24:56.10, with ROSES Academy’s Caljay Jordan, 25:48.00 and Javid Lampkin, 25:58.60, second and third respectively.
Kesiann John of High Performance was the lone entrant in the Female Under-20 category. She finished in a time of 1:05:51.00.
Taking the Under-20 Male segment was Henreek-K Francios — Mustangs,
in 44:52.00. He was followed by Breshorn Fredericks of High Performance in 47:37.00 and Adweeno Jacobs of Roses Academy in 1:05:50.00.
Zita Vincent, making a return to the national stage and representing Biomechanics having moved on from High Performance, stopped the clock at 1:13:44.00 to win the Open Women’s title. Second was Annica Westfield of High Performance, who had a clocking of 1:15:33.00.
And, taking the Open men’s title was Zichri Hepburn of Mustangs in 41:11.30, with veteran road athleteCaswin Prince, representing Mustangs, stopping the clock at 56:00.50.
Athletes in the Primary Schools segment ran from Dark View, a small village between Rose Bank and Petit Bordel, to the Beach Front Restaurant in Chateaubelair, a distance of 2.5km.
The Under-16 competitors began at Troumaca Bottom and those in the
Open category, at Spring Village. The Under-16s did 5km and the Open competitors, 10km. All the categories ended at the Chateaubelair finish line.
Athletes finishing in the top three positions received cash prizes and products compliments Log Enterprises.
SVG at Carifta Gymnastics Championships
ST. VINCENT AND THEGrenadines will be part of the inaugural CARIFTA Gymnastics Championships set for Kingston, Jamaica, from November 29 and 30, 2024, at the National Indoor Sports Centre.
Hosted by the CARIFTA Gymnastics Confederation, this country will be represented by two gymnasts: Jordane Charles - Under18 category and Azaria Lewis — Under-16. Both are from the Dolphin Gymnastics Academy.
Seventeen-year-old Charles is a first-year student at the Community College.
She boasts regional exposure having competed in Jamaica’s Invitational Meet in 2019, where she trumped in the vaulting round, finished second on the uneven parallel bars and third overall.
Charles also competed in the Caribbean Championships held in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago.
Locally, Charles competed in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2020 Coconut Classics where she won first for the vaulting, second for uneven parallel bars and third for both balance beam and floor, placing second overall.
Meanwhile, Lewis, a 14-year-old fourth former at the Girls’ High School, has been involved in Gymnastics for the past seven years.
She first competed regionally in 2019 at the Caribbean Championships held in Trinidad and Tobago and on debut took third on balance beam, uneven parallel bars and the vault, placing third overall.
Outside of the Caribbean, Lewis pitted her skills at the Manhattan Classics in 2020 where she placed first in balance beam, uneven parallel bars and the vault, second on floor, and was first overall.
She also contributed to the team
achieving the Team Spirit Award. And, at the Coconut Classics Meet in 2020, she placed second in balance beam, uneven parallel bars and floor and first in vault.
Charles and Lewis are accompanied by Coach and Technical DirectorLaPrise Williams and Fiona CharlesWilliams, Acting General Secretary of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Gymnastics Association, who will serve as Team Manager.
Caleb Porter, Westwood Methodist School, winner of the Primary Boys category.
Kesiann John, High Performance, winner in the Female U-20 category.
Ayah Stapleton, High Performance, winner of the Girls Under-16.
Jordane Charles – U18 competitor.
Azaria Lewis – U16 competitor
SION HILL 1 ARE THE KNOCK-OUT CHAMPIONSof the 2024 Vita Malt Sion Hill Netball Championship.
They disposed of defeated Ceasar’s Real Estate San Souci Blazers 43-34, last Sunday at the Sion Hill Hard Court, to claim the tile.
SVG Men’s Rugby resilient in defeat Sion Hill Netball titles decided
THE
SAINT
VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Rugby Union (SVGRU)
Men’s 7s team put on an impressive display at the 2024 Rugby Americas North (RAN) 7s tournament held in Trinidad and Tobago from November 24th to 26th.
The team’s performance highlighted their resilience, skill, and determination, despite ultimately falling short in the semifinals of Tier 2 Division and the third-place/bronze medal in the Tier 1 Division.
The Vincentian men’s team, under the leadership of National Coach Justin Tittle, reached the semifinals of the Tier 2 Division, where they went under, 35-0, to eventual winners Dominican Republic, who were undefeated throughout the entire weekend.
In the third-place playoff in Tier 2, the Vincentians went down, 25-5, to Turks and Caicos in a thrilling contest, although the margin of their loss might not have reflected the closeness of the encounter.
The team’s performance, in this match in particular, earned them commendation for both their attacking and defensive play, from their regional colleagues.
Canada sealed the Tier I title and qualified for World Rugby’s second-tier Challenger Series, when they thumped Trinidad and Tobago 38-0 in the finals.
In Women’s Division, Mexico beat Jamaica 19-12 in the finals to claim that title.
“While it’s always
Meanwhile, National Properties Netters got the better of Sion Hill 2, 45-27, to claim the Junior Division title. Outstanding players in this year’s Championship included: Annicia Dallaway, Sion Hill 1 — who
disappointing to fall short of a podium finish, I am incredibly proud of how our team performed,” said Dellon Durrant, President of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union.
Justin Tittle, Head Coach of the Men’s 7s team remarked, “Our players showed great heart, and we’re only going to get better. This tournament has been a crucial learning experience for us, and we are focused on building for the future.”
I.B.A. ALLEN
SVG, seen here in action against Turks and Caicos, demonstrated remarkable strength and teamwork.
Overseas training impacts local Karate
THE HAIROUNA KARATE FEDERATION(HKF) is maximizing the opportunities available to the organization by Centro Caribe Sports and towards this end, it was represented at recent overseas training camps focusing on Kata and Kumite.
Instructor- Seon Stronghold and athlete- Christian Joseph were the first to participate in a Kata workshop, in Panama, November 10 to 14, 2024. They were among representatives from thirteen Central American and Caribbean countries to do so.
Commenting on the training, Stronghold told the VINCENTIAN, “As an athlete, Christian would have benefitted by training with high level international athletes under the instruction of World Kata expert — Antonio Diaz. This improved his understanding of Kata and the body mechanics behind it”.
Stronghold too, had takeaways from
the training camp.
“As for me, the information I was able to record and document has increased my knowledge when it comes to Kata and its dynamics”, Stronghold said.
He however disclosed that Diaz’s story left an indelible mark on him.
“One of the things that stood out for me, was hearing Antonio Diaz’s story about his struggles and determination through many failures to become a World Champion. It was a reminder of why it is important to have clear vision of what we want, and to never give up”, Stronghold admitted.
Now armed with the knowledge, Stronghold plans to pass it on to other karatekas.
“I will be passing on my knowledge from this experience by way of a seminar, as well as a
training session that will include all the Karate clubs that are here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”, he confirmed. The HKF will be part of a Kumite training starting this week, also in Panama.
scored the most goals (110 from 159 attempts) in the senior division; Shania Browne, Sion Hill 2, top scorer (172 from 228 tries) in the Junior Division.
I.B.A. ALLEN
Sion Hill Team 1 - Knockout champions.
Shania Browne (left) - Sion Hill 2 – top scorer in the Junior Division, receiving her award.
Annicia Dallaway (left) – Sion Hill team 1 – top scorer in the Senior Division, receiving her award.
Seon Stronghold (left) and Christian Joseph.
Sports and Culture
WHAT A MORNING like December 16, 2024. The stage is set, and Vincentians roll into the Nine Morning Festivity. The staging of three T/20 International matches featuring Bangladesh and the West Indies will flash across screens worldwide.
That will be West Indies first trip to Arnos Vale in perhaps over ten years. It will their first excursion under lights at Arnos Vale. Previous matches were in brilliant sunlight with the sights and sounds of the multi-island all around.
They will be available once more, in varied fashion. It was a novelty for Vincentians when spectators turned up for matches at Arnos Vale during the 2024 World Cup.
Hurricane Beryl left a devastating trail of destruction in places not too distant from Arnos vale. The towers on which the lights are mounted came through the dilemma with minimal impact.
That venue staged the Concacaf Nation’s Cup matches in the October window - testimony of Arnos Vale suitability as a world class venue.
The installation of lights at Arnos Vale is viewed by some as a trivial exercise. Whatever, it fills a void and positions the nation as a credible sporting destination.
With the unfolding of a semi-professional Football League, Vincentians will be able to benefit from their sporting talent.
Some Vincentians are threatening to boycott the matches against Bangladesh if Vincentian Obed McCoy is not included.
We are not getting involved in matters outside our ambit. We hope that sense prevails. McCoy has thrilled many with his bowling. All the best to West Indies in their sojourn at Arnos Vale. What some Vincentians might be concerned about is the absence of reports on the benefits of staging the World Cup.
One will say that the spillover of the World Cup would have filtered into the Vincentian Cricket Association.
Those Kits, destined for hosting countries designed to improve ‘Grassroots’ cricket ought to have been in use.
Efforts to strengthen cricket at the tender ages ought to ensure a reservoir of talent. If such issues are not attended to with urgency, persons of their own indulgence will have to persist with efforts to sustain cricket at national and regional levels.
This must involve vibrant sporting activities at primary and secondary school stages. And there must be decisive measure to facilitate a smooth transition from Under-19 to regional senior squads, across all levels of sports.
No Champion in CG United Super50
cricketwetindies.com)
AN ANTICLIMAX CONCLUSIONto what has been an exciting and competitive CG United Super50 Cup 2024, occurred with both finalists, Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions, forfeiting the final.
As a result, the tournament organisers announced that there “is no champion for this year’s Tournament competition’.
The organisers were cornered into making the decision following a severely rain-affected match day and ensuing developments.
According to the organisers, this is how things panned out:
“With an initial scheduled start of 1:00 pm, on Sunday November 24, 2024, scattered showers began at the ground around midday, forcing the first indefinite delay to the start of proceedings. Both teams were informed that the latest possible start time was 6:17 pm, at which point the game would be played as a 20-overs-a-side contest.
“According to the playing conditions applicable to the Tournament, if no play was possible at all–or in the event of a tie, no result, or game abandonment–both teams would be declared co-winners of the tournament. However, around 5:45 pm, the officiating team determined that the game could proceed at the latest possible start time of 6:17 pm. They informed the players of this and that the toss would be conducted at 6:00 pm.
“Despite assurances from the umpires and match referee that the conditions were safe for play, both captains failed to be present for the toss, allowing time to elapse past the latest starting point. As a result, both teams failed to take the field, effectively refusing to play. This resulted in a double forfeit, with no champion being declared.”
As for outstanding performances during the competition, Leeward Islands Hurricanes’ skipper Rahkeem Cornwall was the tournament’s
leading wicket taker with 23. Amir Jangoo of Trinidad and Tobago scored the most runs, 446. Justin Greaves of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes became the first West Indian to score three consecutive List A centuries - 111*, 112, and 151*.
CWI has already indicated that they will review tournament regulations considering the
unprecedented situation of a double forfeit.
This year’s Champions were set to receive prize money of US$100,000; while the runnersup would have received US$50,000. Semi-finalists will be rewarded US$ 25,000 each.
(Source: westindiescricket.com)
I.B.A. ALLEN
Police retain SVG Masters Cricket Title
Renrick
RSVG Police Masters – repeat Champions of T20 Masters Cricket in SVG.
RSVG Police Masters defeated North East Masters by 8 wickets in a final reduced to 7 overs because of a late start, to retain their SVG Masters T20 title.
The match was played at Sion Hill on Sunday.
North East Masters batted first and was never able to put together partnerships that would have set a formidable total. They were reduced to 39 for 9 off 7 overs.
Neil Baptiste was the informed bowler for RSVG Police with figures of 3 for 13, and his team responded admirably easing to 40 for 2 off 5.4 overs, with Salvan Browne getting 24 of those runs.
RSVG Police master had earned their place in the final when on Saturday, at Stubbs, they defeated GECCU Stanley Browne Stubbs Masters on a faster scoring rate. Stubbs Masters closed on 141 for 9 off 19 overs, Norlan Williams 46, and Hyron Shallow leading for Police
Masters with a return of 4 for 3. Police replied with 134 for 4 off 16.4 overs, McLean Williams unbeaten on 70.
In the other semi-final played at Sion Hill on Saturday, North East Masters defeated North Leeward Masters on a faster scoring rate. Scores: North East Masters 143 for 7 off 20 overs. Renrick Williams 63, Kevin Michael 3 for 14; North Leeward Masters 95 for 5 off 17.1 overs, Clemore Millington 30.
The following were recognized: Renrick Williams of North East Masters - MVP of the Tournament/Most Runs - 349 runs (one century, 2 fifties), 3 wickets and 3 catches; Salvan Browne of Police Maters - Player of the Final; Ricky Thomas of Stubbs Masters - most wickets, 14.
There were three centurymakers in this year’s tournament: Salvan Browne, Renrick Williams and Hyron Shallow.
Barbados Pride defeated defending champions Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by 153 runs to advance to the final. (Source:
Jamaica Scorpions won their semifinal over Leeward Islands Hurricanes by 107 runs. (Source: cricketwestindies.org)
Williams, of North East Master – MVP of the Tournament.
Farmer charged with Grievous Bodily Harm
EVRAN DE FREITAS,a 34year-old Farmer of South Rivers, is scheduled to appear before the Serious Offences Court on December 2, 2024, to answer to a charge of grievous bodily harm.
De Freitas had appeared before the Georgetown Magistrate Court on November 25, 2024, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The matter was adjourned and transferred the Serious Offences Court.
The farmer was arrested and charged on November 25, 2024, after preliminary investigations revealed that the accused unlawfully inflicted grievous bodily harm on a 50-year-old painter of South Rivers, by striking him about his body with a stick.
The offence was committed in South Rivers on August 11, 2024.
INLOVINGMEMORY of Dexter Jack of Sion Hill & Golden Vale, who died on 2nd December, 2023.
We miss your voice, the laughter and words of wisdom. You are now in the arms of Jesus, so sleep on and take your rest.
Lovingly remembered by family and friends. May his soul Rest In Peace.
IRD CRACKS DOWN ON CASHWIZ
CASHWIZ, A POPULAR PAWN/CONSIGNMENT AND thrift shop operating from premises located at the corner of Long Lane and Sharpe Street, Kingstown, was the centre of ‘attraction’ last week Friday, November 22, when officers of the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), accompanied by armed officers of Special Units of the Royal SVG Police Force, pounced on its operation during the early business hours.
The area from the top of Sharpe Street was cordoned off by the police giving the impression that it was a routine police operation.
Vehicular traffic exiting Long Lane from Cane Garden had to take a police-directed right turn to continue into Kingstown. No traffic was allowed along that portion of Sharpe Street on which CashWiz opens.
Indications are that, acting in accordance with the power vested in it under the Tax Administration Act of 2019, which authorizes search and seizure operations for tax delinquency, the IRD resorted to this action after CashWiz had ignored its many attempts to reach out to it, concerning outstanding tax payments, amounting allegedly to some $800,000.00 dating back to 2021.
Unconfirmed reports said that during the action, the IRD seized over $100,000 in cash and ordered that the locks to the building be changed. Police caution tape was also applied across the main entrance and a notice stating that “Effective 22nd November 2024, operations of this business without authorization by the Comptroller of Inland Revenue is prohibited until further notice.”
For all intents and purposes, the IRD has commandeered jurisdiction over the building.
THE VINCENTIAN learned, though not from the IRD, that CashWiz, which commenced operations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in April 2013, had either defaulted fully or not been consistent in its obligations as they related to Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) i.e. personal income tax deductions, Value Added Tax (VAT), and corporate income tax.
CashWiz, St. Vincent, is but one branch of a chain of
AI REAL ESTATE
consignment and thrift shops operating across the Caribbean, whose parent company Simple Management Holding registered in the USA.
From what THE VINCENTIAN discerned, the CashWiz Caribbean operation, founded in 2009, is headquartered in Jamaica where there are said to be six branches. In addition, there are four branches in Barbados, two branches each in The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, and one branch in each of Antigua and Barbuda, Cayman Island, Dominica, Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
A heavy armed police detail accompanied the raid by Inland Revenue Department officials of the CashWiz pawn shop.
CashWiz touts itself as the premier consignment store throughout the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, questions abound with respect to what appears to be a delay on the part of the IRD to act. Others question the heavy-handed approach,
FRIDAY
byKENVILLE HORNE
police presence, to a matter they think could have been handled differently. One person who says he is a resident of the area in which CashWiz operates was loud in his reading that “more dey in de morta dan se pestle”.
Attempts to reach the Comptroller of Inland revenue for a comment on the matter proved unsuccessful.
Neither was a comment from the CashWiz management forthcoming.
RUBBISHES VENEZUELA INITIATIVE
A JOINT AGRICULTURE
INITIATIVEbetween St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Venezuela which was recently announced by Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, has been described as “nonsense” by Opposition Leader, Godwin Friday.
Minister Caesar made the announcement on the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) radio. He declared that a joint initiative has been entered into where 25,000 acres of land in Venezuela have been made available for Vincentian producers for joint investment.
Dr. Godwin Friday, Opposition Leader, shot down the agreement from the ‘get go’
Grenadines (SVG).
However, the Opposition Leader in responded to the announcement during the New Democratic Party (NDP) New Times radio programme on Nov. 25, said that the idea was a stupid one and “is nonsense masquerading as some initiative.”
He stated that the joint venture does not offer hope to local farmers, and questioned how the idea will help agriculture in St Vincent and the
“No farmer in St Vincent and the Grenadines is going to Venezuela. Venezuela is not a land of opportunity now,” the Dr. Friday declared.
He said that once elected as Prime Minister, he will be a prime minister for the farmers of this country and that his New Democratic Party has a comprehensive plan to assist farmers. He reminded his listening audience that his party has identified agriculture as one of the pillars of economic growth in
Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar announced the agreement with Venezuela with an air of accomplishment.
SVG.
Dr. Friday also took aim at the Ministry of Agriculture for its lack of attention to feeder roads and praedial larceny, describing the latter as having resulted in a situation where, “The women are now doing the farming and the men are doing the thieving,”
Meanwhile, Caesar, who signed the agreement earlier this month with his Venezuelan counterpart, said that the lands in Venezuela may be used to cultivate food or rear animals. (KH)
