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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JUNE 02, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.22

www.thevincentian.com

The arrow marks the spot where Darren Glasgow’s body was lodged.

Darren Glasgow (above) was not known, contrary to comments making the rounds, to be a drug user.

by KENVILLE HORNE THE BODY THAT WASHED ashore at Sandy Bay beach last Tuesday has been identified as that of 16-year-old Darren Anthony Glasgow of Orange Hill.

His body was identified by his father, Neil Cato, of the same address, after it was discovered by a Sandy Bay resident, who was making his way along the beach (a popular shortcut) to London.

That man is reported to have said that he first noticed a body in the water but, given the usual rough waters at Sandy Bay, the body was quickly washed onto some rocks on the beach.

When Cato visited THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, he told reporters that he had last seen and spoken with his son at around 5:10am on Sunday.

Darren had come to borrow a cutlass. He was going to the mountain to tend the neighbour’s animal, but Cato himself was heading for the mountain that day and told his son he would have need for his cutlass, and advised him to use the neighbour’s.

It was customary, Cato said, for his son “to

sleep over at his neighbor,” for whom he did some work.

The Ordeal When Cato returned from the mountain at about 11:00am, Sunday, Darren had not returned home. Cato inquired of the neighbour, for whom Darren worked, whether he had seen him.

Anxiety set in when he replied he had not seen Darren since he left his home early that day.

Cato set about making inquiries of other persons. One said that Darren was seen heading for the mountain between 7:00 and 8:00 that morning; another said he had seen Darren in Owia; yet another said Darren was spotted in Rabacca.

Concern intensified, and Cato journeyed to Georgetown to make a report to the Police there. He also checked with the hospital. No one at the Police Station or the hospital could shed any light on Darren’s whereabouts.

Continued on Page 3.

Right: Neil Cato, Darren’s father, was forthright and honest in speaking of the personal trials that his son endured.

EC$1.50

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2. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Entertainment

Tarrus Riley was recently in Grenada where patrons dubbed his concert the best live show of the modern era of entertainment in the country.

Tarrus Riley is COMING!!!

TARRUS RILEY is returning to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Jamaican Reggae Superstar is set to be in concert on July 15 at Victoria Park, in what Wolf Entertainment, promoters of the concert,

says is the ‘biggest and baddest’ post-carnival concert ever in SVG. Riley made his intentions clear to the Vincentian faithful in a pre-show video recording in which he assured the thousands of fans here, “I’m coming!!”

According to Wolf Entertainment, a promotions group that has had an accomplished and a long track record of doing large concerts and other events in the region and the USA, the artiste, backed by his own band, will deliver a full 45-min set of his greatest hits and other crowd pleasing numbers.

The Vincentian reggae faithful are urged to grab this opportunity to share with, be blessed and entertained by an artiste who has received the accolades of Best Singer, Male Vocalist, Cultural Artiste, Song of the Year, and Best Song from renowned awards institutions like the Youth View Awards, The Star People’s Choice Awards, EME Awards, and the Reggae Academy in 2004.

And who would want to miss a live rendition of ‘She’s Royal’, adjudged in 2009 to be the ‘Most Admired Song in the Past 15 Years’.

Supporting acts will include reggae superstar Dean Fraser, a legendary Jamaican saxophonist who has made his name on many stages across the world, doing his original

Dean Fraser is expected to excite and whet the appetite with a whole new appreciation of reggae music. songs, plus covers of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and other reggae legends, and who has contributed to hundreds of reggae recordings since the mid1970s.

Early Bird Tickets to the Tarrus Riley Concert are offered at the affordable cover charge of EC$40.00, cognizant of the pocket capacity of locals after what is expected to be a hectic 40th Anniversary of carnival.

Tickets are on sale at Music Centre (Kingstown), Beachfront Restaurant (Chateaubelair), Famous Richies (Heritage Sq), Lano Lano (Heritage Sq) and Howards Marine (Calliaqua)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 3.

News 3

SVG, Cuba mark 25 years of diplomatic relations THE MOVE IN 1992 by then Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Sir James Mitchell to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba has been described as an act of foresight and courage.

The sentiments were expressed by Renwick Rose — President of the SVG/Cuba Friendship Society in his message on the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of those relations.

But even as he recognized Sir James’ initiative, Rose pointed out that relations — albeit informal and some would say clandestine - were already established primarily between local leftist leaning political entities like Youlimo and the United People’s Movement (UPM) and the Communist Party of Cuba,

resulting in a number of young Vincentians finding places of study in Cuba, under special scholarship arrangements.

Against that background, it was accurate to say that relations between the peoples of the two countries have progressed over the last forty years, Rose proffered.

Activities here to mark the 25th anniversary of the establishing of diplomatic relations between Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, got going with a cocktail reception at the Cuban Embassy, on Thursday May 25th.

On Friday 26th May 2017 May 26, 1992 was the actual day when relations between the two countries were formalized - activities were held both here in SVG and in

Havana, Cuba.

Here at home, a ceremony and cultural showcase were held at the Peace Memorial Hall, featuring addresses from Saboto Caesar - Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and Rural Transformation; H.E. Vilma Reyes Valdespino - Cuban Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Rose.

The cultural segment showcased local performers and the Cuban band Calle Cuba.

Meanwhile in Havana, this country’s resident Ambassador to Cuba, H. E. Ellsworth John, hosted a cultural celebration, under the patronage of Sir Louis Straker, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Lady Straker.

It also included performances by local artistes Rodney Small, Darren Andrews, Rondy McIntosh, Kamaro Williams and Brent Williams.

The activities here came to an end on Tuesday 30th May with a public lecture delivered

by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister, at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Community College Lecture Hall.

Since establishing relations, there has been tremendous, ongoing cooperation between both countries in the areas of health, education and more recently the contribution by Cuba towards the construction of the Argyle International Airport.

Teenager’s body washed ashore at Sandy Bay THE VINCENTIAN. He hurried to Sandy Bay and as he On Monday, Cato said, approached the beach, he “I travel along the coast observed a large crowd from Orange Hill to and a police cordon.

Overland and back to the He was asked to Rabacca River mouth, identify the body, and he but there was no trace of did, pointing out to the Darren.” police that in addition to Night set in, and still his features, he could, Darren had not returned “ID him from the pants home. he was wearing.”

On Tuesday, as Cato Cato said that other was preparing to mount than the parts of his a search “up the body that were still Rabbaca,” a neighbor covered, “the rest of informed him that a body Darren’s body.. his face, was discovered on the legs and stomach — Sandy Bay beach. “The looked ‘whitish’, like it neightbour said it could bleached.” be Darren,” Cato told He said adamantly, Continued from Front page.

that as far as he could see, his son’s body showed no signs of “rotting,” as was previously reported.

He admitted noticing a small hole in the area of his son’s neck.

Darren Glasgow Cato was forthright about his son.

Darren attended the Georgetown Secondary School but did not complete his schooling there, having to be removed when he began “misbehaving and doing some wrongs things,” Cato acknowledged.

Three years ago, Cato asked, through the Family Court, that his son be put in the care of the state. The Court agreed and Darren was put in the care of the officers at the Questelles Police Station.

He spent the better part of two years there, doing odd jobs, like cleaning and so forth, before a report to the Family Court recommended that he be returned to his home at Orange Hill, since, according to the report, “he had been rehabilitated.”

He was also ordered to

receive counselling at Marion House, which he did, during which time he was supervised by officers at the Georgetown Police Station.

In April of this year, Darren, according to his father, began “behaving strange .. talking to himself… jumping up and down.. so I took him to a private doctor. The doctor tested him for drugs and said he was clean.”

He continued “to behave strange,” his father said, “and when I told him he should go to the Mental Health

Centre, he cried and said he did want to go there,… how he wasn’t on drugs and he would take his tonic which I had bought for him.”

Darren is the third of four children (1 girl, two boys) fathered by Cato.

His father made no speculations with respect to the cause(s) of and the circumstances surrounding his son’s death, preferring to await the results of a post mortem.

A preliminary report of post mortem conducted put the cause of death as drowning.

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Crime Watch

Petit Bordel man nursing gunshot injuries Saturday 27th and went into the early hours of A 32-YEAR-OLD FARMER Sunday morning. of Petit Bordel was, up to All seemed to have Wednesday, warded at the been going well, until, a Milton Cato Memorial burst of gunfire filled the Hospital nursing gunshot festive atmosphere. injuries.

Chaos ensued as Novefha ‘Ash’ patrons, drinks and food Delpleche was shot twice vendors ran ‘helter in the chest during an skelter’ to exit the venue. event in Rose Hall. The Delpleche was at the event, dubbed ‘Colour bar when he was shot, Jams Paint N’ Powder and in the Fete’ and organized by pandemonium, also the United Legacy sustained a broken left Empowered Development arm.

Organization (ULEDO), Speaking from his began on the night of hospital bed, he said, “I

by KENVILLE HORNE

Primus P.I adjourned for special application

by HAYDN HUGGINS THE FATE of 39-year-old Veron Primus of Vermont, charged with the murder of real estate agent Sharlene Greaves, 36, of Dorsetshire Hill, remains in the balance.

When the Preliminary Inquiry (P.I) resumed at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, May 31, the prosecution recalled the investigator Constable Edmund Ollivierre, who had testified on January 24.

Veron primus, also Senior Prosecutor a persons of Adolphus Delpleche then interest to law requested and was granted enforcement an adjournment, to allow the agencies in the prosecution to make an USA, has a while application under the Witness longer to learn whether or not he Special Measures Act, in relation to a certain witness. proceeds to the This type of application is High Court here. required, by law, to be made in writing.

Delpleche asked for a three-week adjournment, and the Court adjourned the matter to June 27.

The P.I had been previously adjourned from May 16 to accommodate P.C Ollivierre, after the Senior Prosecutor informed the Court that the officer was overseas attending a training course, and was expected to return on May 24.

The matter was originally slated to resume on Tuesday, May 30, but the Serious Offences Court did not sit that day.

Greaves body was discovered at her Bijou Real Estate Office at Arnos Vale on November 13, 2015.

She had sustained multiple stab wounds.

Several witnesses have already testified at THE P.I which commenced at the Serious Offences Court on January 4. Primus is conducting his own defence.

don’t trouble people.”

He contents himself with the belief that he was “shot by mistake,” but has learned that speculation was rife in the community with respect to who might have shot him.

Delpleche bemoans the fact that other than one of the DJ’s at the event, no one from the group that had organized the event has been in touch with him since the incident.

That aside, he had a

rather interesting take on his shooting, saying that he would feel a lot better if the person who shot him would come and visit him at the hospital.

“He should ah come ah check me. I would ah vex, but right now he knows he shot the wrong man, so he should a show me some respect,” said Delpleshe.

Meanwhile, persons in Rose Hall and surrounding communities have been questioning the security arrangement

put in place for an event of such magnitude, with some patrons voicing the opinion that the security was far from adequate for the number of persons in attendance.

ULEDO has since posted a ‘thank you’ to the many patrons, and issued an apology “for the abrupt end to the show,” citing circumstances over which they had no control.

The police said that they are investigating the shooting incident.

Novefha ‘Ash’ Delpleche was an unfortunate recipient of two bullets.

Victim’s sister satisfied justice was served

By HAYDN HUGGINS TWELVE YEARS after 21-year-old Lakeitha Duke was brutally murdered at Diamond, her sister Maudlin Shearman expressed satisfaction that the killer Ali Gibson had been convicted.

Despite the fact that the conviction was secured 12 years after her sister was strangled, and 11 years after Gibson was charged with the murder, Shearman, who had followed the case with keen interest, walked away from the High Court a happy woman, being convinced

Right: Maudlin Shearman, sister of murder victim Lakeitha Duke. that justice was served.

“I know that I get justice, and I must give God thanks for everything,” the Glen resident told THE VINCENTIAN last week Wednesday, May 24, minutes after a 12member jury found Gibson guilty of Duke’s murder.

Gibson was sentenced to 30 years in prison last Friday, May 26, following a sentencing hearing. the years following her Shearman explained sister’s death, but she that it was very painful for the family throughout had always felt that one day justice would be

Woman to stand trial for murder

by HAYDN HUGGINS THIRTY-NINE-YEAR-OLD Ava Charles will stand trial in the High Court for the December 12, 2016 murder of former school teacher Jasmond ‘Crab’ Charles-Hutchinson.

At the conclusion of a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I.) at the Serious Offences Court on May 25, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne ruled that a prima facie case was made out, and committed the woman to stand trial.

Charles-Hutchinson died from a stab wound to the chest reportedly following an incident around 7 pm December 12 last year, in an area at Rose Place called the Hole, where he lived.

The P.I. started at the Serious Offences Court on May 24. Eleven witnesses testified for the prosecution. They included the investigator, Inspector John Ballah and persons who were living in the area when the incident was reported to have occurred.

The accused was without legal representation.

Ava Charles

done.

She noted that May 9 this year was two years since their mother, Roslyn Duke, died.

Maudlin and Lakeitha are two of seven children for Roslyn. Roslyn, Maudlin said, had always prayed for justice to be done.

Lakeitha was originally from Glen, but was residing at Diamond at the time of her death.

Her nude body was found in bushes on a pasture at Diamond on the morning of August 13, 2005, with a two-strand rope tightly bound around her neck.

Gibson, who was in his mid-twenties at the time of the incident, denied knowledge of the crime.

V Dominica protests escalate: Shots fired

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 5.

Regional

Tuesday.

According to reports carried in the Dominica media and other regional news agencies, the shots were heard when protestors tried to break through barricades set up around the Parliament building, where the Parliament had convened for its Third Meeting of the Second Session of The Ninth Parliament.

Protest against the DLP government had There was a heavy police (riot squad) presence around been mounted since the Parliament building last Tuesday (Credit: Dominica late 2016. But this Vibes) particular protest, organisers said, was PROTESTS AGAINST the described as, ‘a turn for the to express displeasure Roosevelt Skerrit-led worst’, when shots were over a Bill to amend the Dominica Labour Party fired during a demonstration House of Assembly government of Dominica in front of the Parliament (Elections) Act. took, what one observer building, Roseau, last week Among the claims against the amendment is that it would lead to legalising bribery, an electoral offence in Dominica..

Up to press time on Wednesday, police had not determined who fired the shots last week Tuesday.

There had been a heavy police presence around the Parliament that day, consequent upon a Farmers in Salisbury - a town on the west coast of warning by the Dominica - blocked roads earlier this month (May) Commissioner of Police — and clashed with law enforcement officers. (Credit: Daniel Carbon that there should be no protest DOL)

outside the Parliament building, and that he and his constabulary were mandated to protect the proceedings (of the Parliament) In response to the heightened action of last week Tuesday, Prime Minister Skerrit, in a nationwide address the following Thursday, during which he accused the Opposition United Workers Party (UWP), of sullying the image of Dominica and threatening its stability.

He blasted the latest round of protests, expressing concern that street demonstrations, lawlessness and violence were fast becoming a dangerous norm that was very “un-Dominican.”

“The portrayal of Dominica as a melting pot for confusion and antisocial behaviour is hurting the image of the country, and threatens the social and economic wellbeing of our dear land,” he lamented.

“Dominica is being black-eyed in the regional and international world by media reports of this very un-Dominican behaviour that is creeping into the mainstream of society.”

Skerrit also reflected on the rioting that followed an Opposition meeting back in February, which resulted in significant damage and losses to

LIALPA and LIAT reach another agreement Observer, was given by Captain Carl Burke, President of the Leeward Island Airline Pilots Association (LIALPA), the representative body of LIAT pilots.

However, neither Burke nor anyone representing the management of LIAT gave any details of the agreement, save and except a reference by LIALPA to the agreement being an “informal one”, and the airline management declaring Steadroy Benjamin, “the discussions were Antigua and Barbuda cordial, and management Minister of Labour, intervened successfully, and pilots have reached a mutually amicable it appeared, in the decision on outstanding dispute between LIAT issues.” and its pilots.

This “informal agreement” was expected AN AGREEMENT which to go before the Industrial addressed the concerns of Court in Antigua and pilots employed with LIAT Barbuda, by way of a has been reached.

Consent Order, last This assurance, as Monday. reported by the Antigua Indications are that

attorneys for LIAT and LIALPA will sign this agreement which would formalize what was discussed.

The agreement arose out of a meeting held on Wednesday 24th May, and involving Antigua and Barbuda’s Labour Minister Steadroy Benjamin, the airline’s management and the Leeward Island Airline Pilots Association (LIALPA) Minister Benjamin was moved to intervene after IALPA had threatened to stage sit-ins and picketing at various airports, if its members did not receive their salaries by midnight last night.

The pilots said they were fed up with the airline’s failure to implement a new salary structure, agreed to in 2012, for its ATR-72 pilots, general salary increases,

Captain Carl Burke, President of LIALPA, will be hoping that there is no reneging on the recent ‘informal’ agreement reached with LIAT’s management. entered; and a salary deferral system, among other outstanding matters.

The meeting averted any strike action and LIAT’s scheduled flights remained uninterrupted.

businesses in Roseau, and warned that should this situation of crime and violence is allowed to go unchecked as the first course of action by an established political party, it could result in dire consequences.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit wasted no time in pointing an accusing finger at the Opposition.

(Credit: Sun Dominica)

The Caribbean has been forewarned. (Credit: NOAA)

Above normal hurricane season forecast THE 2017 ATLANTIC hurricane season, which officially began yesterday, June 1, is forecast to be more active than normal.

In fact, the first named storm for the year - Tropical Storm Arlene - emerged in the North Atlantic on the 19th of April in a month when such storms rarely emerge.

A report released on Thursday 25th May by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that this year, the Atlantic hurricane season will most likely be above-normal, citing forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

“For the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30, forecasters predict a 45 percent chance of an above-normal season, a 35 percent chance of a near-normal season, and only a 20 percent chance of a below-normal season,” the report said.

For this year, forecasters predict a 70% likelihood of 11 to 17 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 2 to 4 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5; winds of 111 mph or higher).

Last year is said to have been the first aboveaverage hurricane season since 2012, with 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes and 4 major hurricanes.

“Last year produced 5 land-falling storms, including Matthew that caused $10 billion in damage and killed 34 people in the US and 551 in the Caribbean. It was one of the deadliest Atlantic hurricanes on record,” the report from NOAA said.

NOAA explained that strong El Niños and wind shear typically suppress development of Atlantic hurricanes, so the prediction for weak conditions points to more hurricane activity this year. Also, warmer sea surface temperatures tend to fuel hurricanes as they move across the ocean.

The next named storm for the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season will be called Bret. The remaining storm names will be Cindy, Don, Emily, Franklin, Gert, Harvey, Irma, Jose, Katia, Lee, Maria, Nate, Ophelia, Phillippe, Rina, Sean, Tammy, Vince, and Whitney. (Source: www.amandala.com.)

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6. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Ex-police Association standing firm Police Association continues to grow, so will be our commitment to serve our members and our community, both in our motherland and here in the Diaspora,” AFTER 37 YEARS of service, the continued Tannis.

Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and Expect that the group will the Grenadines Ex-Police continue to increase donation Association, U.S.A., Inc. of supplies and equipment to continues to “stand needy institutions in St. unwaveringly on the foundation Vincent and the Grenadines; laid down by its founding render aid to ex-police officers fathers,” according to the and their families in times of group’s president Arden Tannis. distress; provide additional aid “They were men who towards the education of the adhered to a creed while they youth; and extend visits and were serving members of the contributions of toiletries and Royal St. Vincent and the other personal effects to Grenadines Police Force: ‘One nursing homes and the sick for All and All for One’”, said and shut-ins in the homeland.

Tannis in his address at the This according to Tannis.

37th Annual Fundraising Gala The SVG Ex-Police and Awards Ceremony since Association, U.S.A., Inc. its formation in 1978, two comprises former members of Saturday nights ago at Glen the Royal SVG Police Force Terrace on Avenue N in (RSVGPF), and was founded Brooklyn. in August 1978 in Brooklyn.

“It was this belief that According to the pushed them to act, resulting commemorative journal, the in the formation of this objectives of the group are to organization,” added Tannis, unite former police officers who has served two who resided in the United consecutive years as president States, particularly in New of one of the older Vincentian York, and engage them in groups in the US. “Their fund-raising initiatives, thus coining and use of our tagline, allowing them to provide ‘Staying together to Serve,’ assistance to other ex-police have served the organization offices during unforeseen well. It has been the secret of emergencies. our longevity.

The decision to form the “As the SVG [St. Vincent association was made as a and the Grenadines] Exresult of the tragic and Stories and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

President of COSAGO Laverne McDowaldThompson extends congratulations.

New York Consul General Howie Prince addresses ceremony.

Despite occasional untimely death of Alpheaus difficulties, the SVG Ex-Police Diamond, a 36-year-old police Association, U.S.A., Inc. sergeant of the Royal St. “continues to create a positive Vincent Police Force who, impact here in New York and while on vacation in Brooklyn, at home in St. Vincent and the in attempting to escape a fire Grenadines,” the journal adds. in the home where he was In saluting the group, the staying, jumped from a Consulate of St. Vincent and window and sustained injuries the Grenadines to the United from which he later died.

States noted its “longevity as Returning Diamond’s body an organization that functions home to St. Vincent and the in the Diaspora to benefit Grenadines for burial became police and police organizations a financial burden for his in the homeland.” family, and ex-police officers “Who would have thought in New York “got together and that the actions of a handful of pooled their resources to ex-police officers 37 years ago, provide the necessary funds. who, by pooling resources to

Arden Tannis, president of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ex-Police Association, U.SA. Inc. addresses award ceremony. repatriate the remains of a fallen colleague, Sergeant Alpheus Diamond, would result in the formation and sustaining of such a vibrant organization?” said New York Consul General Howie Prince in his remarks. “Clearly, yours is a master tale of determination, strength of character and perseverance.”

The umbrella Vincentian group in the US, the Brooklynbased Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organization U.S.A. Inc. (COSAGO), of which the police association is a member, also extended congratulatory greetings.

World Bank supports education, agribusiness in SVG THE WORLD BANK says its Board of Executive Directors has approved two important projects totaling US$19 million for the Eastern Caribbean countries of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada.

The Washington-based financial institution said on Thursday that the US$10.7 million Human Development Service Delivery Project will support improved quality of primary and secondary education, a more efficient social protection system and improved access to skills training in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Regional Agriculture Competitiveness Project (US$8.3 million) aims

to increase market access and sales for farmers, fishers and agroprocessors in both St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, the bank said.

It said the two projects will address key constraints in human development and agriculture sectors.

“St. Vincent and the Grenadines has made significant human development progress, yet poverty and unemployment remain high,” the World Bank said, stating that nearly one in two young adults are unemployed, and about 30 percent of the population lives in poverty.

The bank said about 26 percent of the labour force in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and 11 percent in Grenada is in

the agriculture sector, with rural population highly dependent on agriculture for incomes, employment and food security.

But the World Bank said many agribusiness entrepreneurs lack the skills and inputs required to scale up.

“The two projects approved today aim at boosting economic opportunities in the Eastern Caribbean by improving education and social protection services for young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and creating new opportunities for farmers and fishers in both Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines by linking them to larger markets for their products,” said Tahseen Sayed, World Bank

country director for the Caribbean. “To tackle these issues effectively particularly in small economies, it’s important to think both locally and regionally”.

The World Bank said the Human Development Service Delivery Project will increase access to skills training to 1,500 poor and unemployed persons in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as provide training for new principals and teachers, implement the new performance appraisal system, and improve the Technical Vocational Education and Training system.

The project will also establish a new social protection beneficiary registry, roll out a new targeting and payment system, and support data collection and analysis

for the first poverty assessment in 10 years, the bank said.

It said the objective of the OECS Regional Agriculture Competitiveness Project is to improve linkages between the demand and supply of smallholder produce.

Specifically, the bank said the project will support the development of agroTahseen Sayed, World business proposals and Bank country director finance the for the Caribbean, says implementation of the projects are aimed business plans in areas at boosting economic such as modernizing opportunities in the farm equipment.

Eastern Caribbean, by The project also aims to train about 140 public improving education and social protection agricultural extension officers, improve storage services for young people. facilities, increase marketing and financial agribusiness in St. literacy, and mobilize US$1 million in Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, private capital for the World Bank said.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 7.

News

Action taken against students in video THE MATTER INVOLVING two students of in a brawl, has been addressed. the Emmanuel High School Mesopotamia That was about the only comment who were caught on video while involved that principal Curtis Greaves said that he was prepared to give to the media, in relation to the incident.

“The school has dealt with the issue in accordance with the Education Act of St Vincent and the Grenadines and the students’ handbook,” Greaves told THE VINCENTIAN. He stated further that all the other students involved were also dealt with, but he would not be providing any detailed information indicating what sort of action was taken against any of the students seen in the video.

The video appeared on social media last weekend, and showed the two female students involved in an exchange of blows and clinches.

The brawl ceased only for a while as one of the students stripped down to her vest and tights before resuming the altercation. An adult male is seen intervening and putting an end to the Curtis Greaves, Principal of the EHS Mesopotamia, assured that the issue of a fight among students of the school has been addressed.

almost two-minute brawl.

Within recent times, a number of videos have surfaced on social media with students engaging in fights and sexual activities.

This recent video of the two students follows on a locally produced pornographic video, featuring a purported 22-year-old teacher, and which went viral. (DD)

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Editorial A breach of contract?

NOT FOR THE FIRST TIME in its seemingly, everlastingly troubled history, LIAT, our regional airline with which we have a love-hate relationship, fended off another threat.

This most recent threat came, not for the first time, from the airline’s band of overworked pilots, if we are to believe the airmen.

And also, not for the first time, the threat of industrial action by the pilots was predicated upon LIAT’s failure to respond to an agreement that dates back to 2012, which addresses salaries and related amenities.

Of all the people in the world, it took intervention in person by Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin, Antigua’s already embattled Attorney General and Minister of Labour, to bring the warring parties together and, thank God, to work out a settlement of sorts.

That settlement, if it is that at all, was expected to go before the Industrial Court in Antigua by way of a Consent Order, to be signed by both parties.

It appears that LIAT’s management, acting on behalf of the airline’s Board of Directors, who in turn act on behalf of the shareholder governments, was able, with Mr. Benjamin’s prodding, to ‘keep the airline in the skies’.

What is of concern is that, in effect, there remains a substantial agreement of 2012 which has not, if we are to accept what the pilots have been positing for the last five years, been addressed far less adhered to by LIAT’s management.

That agreement includes provision for a new salary structure for the pilots, general salary increases, and the matter of a salary deferral system which LIAT, because of its fledging cash situation, has had to enforce over the period since 2012.

This begs the question: If it is that the Management accepts direction and directives from the Board of Directors, and the Directors in turn have to carrying out the dictates of the shareholders, then isn’t it fair to say that a contractual agreement has been reneged upon by each major cog in the Management/Administration of LIAT? This is tantamount to going back on your word. More alarmingly, isn’t this a BREACH OF CONTRACT? We expect that LIAT is operated in accordance with the basic principles and guidelines of Business Law. When it comes to business law, it is important to know what the term ‘breach of contract’ means.

After all, contracts are the lifeblood of business agreements, as per the 2012 agreement between LIAT’s management and LIAT’s pilots; without them, business agreements may go unfulfilled, as it appears is the case with LIAT. A breach of contract occurs when one party does not uphold their end of the business agreement. This is one of the most common reasons why lawsuits are filed. .

Has LIAT enjoyed more than its share of good fortune?

Understanding the breach of contract concept is simple. A breach of contract occurs when a term or terms of a contract – written or oral – is/are not upheld.

For example, if a payment is not made, not made at an agreed time, or not made in full (as has happened with LIAT) that constitutes a breach of contract. If a pre-agreed quality of work or time frame for a job is not met, a breach of contract occurs. If a job is not completed altogether, a breach of contract also happens. The list continues, but the same basic concept of a term of an agreement not being fulfilled still applies.

So, what can you do when a breach of contract in a business understanding occurs? Hiring an experienced contract dispute lawyer is one line of attack.

And filing a breach of contract lawsuit is simple if you have proof of an agreed business contract with a clear list of terms and, of course, evidence that a breach of contract has occurred.

It appears that one of the parties involved in the agreement here referred is better positioned to file a lawsuit. It appears they have decided not to take that course towards redress. That party is the pilots.

The bigger question for all of us whose governments hold shares in LIAT on our behalf, the hundreds of us who are made to remain dependent on LIAT for intra-island travel, would we wake up one morning to hear that the pilots have filed a lawsuit against LIAT for Breach of Contract?

That, if it happens, would be an interesting case study for years to come, but it is an eventuality which we hope could be avoided.

LIAT management needs to wake up to this possibility.

East Indians as West Indians THE INDIANS who form an integral part of our nation Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are now celebrating the 156th anniversary of their coming here since 1861.

We had been a slave plantation society up until the 1830s, when slavery was abolished 1834-38.

So worked up had been the Black population over that bestial institution that sought to dehumanise them, that after emancipation they swore that their young would not put a foot on the estates during the period of Apprenticeship.

And the reality of their beating a retreat from the estates became real after 1838, resulting in crippling labour shortages. The British had to find a way out of their economic predicament, now that the ex-slaves were taking their freedom seriously and were busy establishing their own peasantries.

First resort was had to the importation of the poor of Portugal who came to these shores beginning in 1846. The Portuguese did not readily take to estate life, preferring shopkeeping, charcoal burning, animal husbandry and a host of petit bourgeois activities.

Although not considered really white, they were certainly not black and got a squeeze-in on the occupational ladder later on, in the banks and so forth.

A more determined effort was then made to take indentured labourers from India to do the field-work, which native labour had abhorred and from which Portuguese workers had turned their back.

The localised Indians were generally referred to by the opprobrious term “Cooly’. It was not the local Blacks who coined that term.

The press, itself owned, managed, and edited

by Europeans, so called the Indians. One newspaper editorialising at the time of the infusion spoke of “the success” of “The Cooly Venture”.

It remarked approvingly on the work attitude and drive for money, which encouraged these “slender Asiatics” glad to do over-time work which ensured a bright future for the colony.

Anyway it was clear that the working contract as indentured servant was no bed of roses. Workers often ran off to different estates where the work was lighter. When a recalcitrant worker was caught in the act of deserting his place of work, he was dealt with punishments resembling those of the slaveyears. I read an old newspaper that told of one Mahober Singh being caught, tied to his captor’s horse which jogged several miles home, at the end of which Mahober dropped dead from exhaustion.

Small in number, given one-sided contracts to fulfil, and illiterate certainly in the master’s tongue and sometimes even in his own, the ‘cooly’ was often a very obedient servant, a pliant tool on the farms. Some slipped out of their contracts, others did not renew them.

Even his native religion- Hindu and Mohammedism- were stripped from him, and he was forced into the Christian Faith that contributed to his submissiveness.

This last factor was significant in having

the “Cooly Indian” subscribe allegiance to the dominant creole culture and become virtually assimilated, save in peripheral matters like food of which the roti was king.

The constitution for half of the 150 years was backward and colonial. Significantly at Adult Suffrage 1951, the first Party of the People emerged 90 years after the Indian landing, sported certainly at least one Indian in Evans Morgan, a 22-year-old teacher and trade unionist, and probably a second Indian in Herman Young who got most votes in the election and was called the Senior Elected Member, with certain privileges.

With two out of eight elected seats in 1951, that is 25%, the Indians were off to a good start, given the primacy of politics in colonial territories. Over the years, however, there was a falling off with persons like Herbie Young, Herman’s son, becoming a Minister of Government for ten years and Ambassador to the U.N in the mid 1990s.

It was noted that the Indians never voted “Race Apanjat” as they did in Guyana and Trinidad. In fact it was surely a good sign to observe that pockets of Indian voters in Richland Park and Calder in the early1990s voting for Labour’s candidate, Vincent Beache whom they garlanded during the campaign at the expense of one of their own, St. Clair Thomas, a Medical doctor who sprang from the grass-roots!

The flip side of that coin painted a somewhat different picture. Once the lawyers’ team engaged Dr. Thomas’ “Injectors” in a cricket match at Biabou. I was enjoying myself tremendously when Bassy Alexander, one of our “professionals”, came up to me and served a classic: “Skip, I thought you told me we were playing “Injectors”, but is ‘Bangladesh’. we playing.”

When I checked the opposing team, there were 10 Indians and a single Black, Frank George, who was married to an Indian. I believe that the whole scenario was accidental.

Surely, the Injectors were not injecting Race, but it was a warning as to how minority groups must be on their “P’s” and Q’s” when having functions.

I think that perceptions of “clannishness” proved the undoing of the first attempt at Indian Solidarity under Dr. Gideon Cordice and Lloyd Bacchus.

Poor small countries are especially sensitive to their maintenance of a homogenous society. I recall a man of principle, Renwick Rose, who once led BLAC —Black Liberation Action Committee- referring to Cyp Neehall and Lennox Bowman when they headed the Carnival Development Corporation as Mustapha and Mohammed!

Truly there have been great Indians who helped to build this Nation. The list represents a mere sample and is by no means exhaustive.

The Crichtons in bus transportation produced a Methodist Minister and a pharmacist turned local politician in Horace Crichton.

Continued on Page 17.

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Letters

Save W. I Cricket IT IS NOW WELL over a decade that West Indies cricket has been scraping the bottom of the barrel as far as its standing in international cricket is concerned.

Tell me, who would have believed ten years ago, that the West Indies would be languishing in 8th position in the ICC Test Ranking, 9th in the ICC ODI ranking, and 7th in the ICC T20 Ranking?

If we don’t want to admit it, Mr. Editor, let me say it for all West Indian cricket fans: our cricket is in decline; it is ailing badly; it is severely wounded.

If we don’t believe it, we only have to look at the fact that since Lara and Chanderpaul, we have produced (hope I don’t talk too fast) one reliable batsman —

Rolston Chase — and that is very, very recent. We have not produced one bowler with any consistency, even though we have a wash of young fast bowlers around the place.

Yet, even as I say all that about our cricket, you will notice that I have not said that our cricket is dead. It may be all of the above, but it is definitely not dead.

What we need is a rescue mission, and I want to suggest that we start by taking a hard, critical look at our coaches. Never before in the history of West Indies cricket has there been so many coaches employed at so many levels. They have been at it for some time, yet all we can produce are teams that perform well in spurts — no

consistency.

India, Australia, England are producing top class cricketers by the dozens. We have this academy and that academy, manned by this certified coach and that certified coach, but we don’t produce half as many as those countries.

It is well worth noting that even when we ruled the cricket world, Australia was never too far behind, and their concentration on proper coaching and high science academies make it possible for them to slide easily into the position we once enjoyed.

We can treat our ailments and wounds, but we must be brave and make the tough decisions. If it means getting rid of some of the coaches, then do that. If it means getting rid of

some of the administrators, then do that. If it means parking aside some of the current batch of players, then do that. Simply put, we have to do something before something does us in for good.

Save our cricket by beginning the rescue mission now.

Thomas, B

This is Trump’s America Editor’s Note: Paddy Corea shared this piece with us. We thought it might be of interest to you, readers.

Witnesses who saw a triple stabbing on a train in Oregon say it may have been racially motivated, after a man who launched into a racist rant against two Muslim women then attacked passengers when they tried to intervene.

The attacker slashed the throats of three people as the Metro Area Express (MAX) train was pulling into a station in the north east corner of Portland — leaving two dead and one injured.

The man was seen hurling racist abuse at two young women — one of whom was wearing a hijab — and then attacked the men when they came to their defence.

One man was pronounced dead at the scene while another died in hospital. The third man was treated for nonlife threatening injuries.

Police arrested a suspect on Friday afternoon who, they alleged, was seen running from the train, local newspaper The Oregonian reported.

Officers were still working on Friday night to identify those who

were attacked.

Before the stabbing, the assailant on the train was ranting on many topics, using “hate speech or biased language,” and then turned his focus on the women, Police Sergeant Pete Simpson said.

“In the midst of his ranting and raving, some people approached him”.

In a statement responding to Friday’s attack, the Council on AmericanIslamic Relations said that anti-Muslim incidents increased by more than 50 per cent in the United States from 2015 to 2016 due in part to President Donald

Trump’s focus on militant Islamist groups and anti-immigrant rhetoric.

“President Trump must speak out personally against the rising tide of Islamophobia and other forms of bigotry and racism in our nation that he has provoked through his numerous statements, policies and appointments that have negatively impacted minority communities,” said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad.

The Oregonian

An Open Letter to CXC First Aid/Survival Aid be made a distinct course of study on CXC’s WE ARE MINDFUL of the evercurriculum, and that the subject present and increasing threats of be a mandatory examination, terrorist activity around the particularly at CSEC level. world. It is not a localized In this subject, our students phenomenon. would study the threats, dangers The world is again in mourning and the diverse nature of natural after the May 22 terrorist attack and man-made acts of terror, and at Manchester Arena in the UK how they are to proceed, act and that claimed the lives of many respond in terms of safety, first and injured many more. aid and survival methods. This I found an interesting caption will serve not only themselves on my MSN page that read: but whomever they are able to “Woman hailed ‘hero’ for leading give succor to in such dastardly ’50 teens’ to safety after blast”. and dire instances of terror. This It was that headline, along course will also train them to spot with the bomb blast, that moved and detect and respond with me to pen this letter. respect to relaying information to I am advocating strongly that authority and relevant persons.

Dear Chairman,

These are changing times. Our system of education is sounding the clarion call for us to reflect change beyond the normalized social settings and requirements for employment, and prepare the students for the ‘outer’ real world with ready and practical knowledge of survival.

I am strongly calling on us to lead the way in education pioneering. For the only enduring legacy your organization can give our students is an educated and practical mind to survive in an ever changing world into the future.

Rodcliff Noel Teacher

Statement on silver jubilee of SVG-Cuba diplomatic relations THE ST VINCENT and the Grenadines/Cuba Friendship Society joins with the Governments and people of both countries in celebrating the 25th anniversary of the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between our respective countries.

In so doing, we pay tribute to the foresight and courage of the administration of 1992 led by Sir James Mitchell, which took the bold step twentyfive years ago.

It must be recalled that at the time of SVG’s historic move in 1992, only the ‘Big Four’ (Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago) who broke the diplomatic ice in 1972, Cuba’s neighbour the Bahamas, and the revolutionary governments of Grenada and Suriname, both in 1979, had dared to defy the western ‘Iron Curtain’ imposed to blockade Cuba and which kept most Caribbean nations in mortal fear of any such diplomatic step.

Given that context, and the steadfast refusal of the government which preceded the Mitchell administration to even countenance any relations with Cuba, the courageous step of 1992 must be fully applauded and appreciated. It opened the way for a fruitful development of state to state and people-to people relations between SVG and Cuba on a transparent and mutually beneficial basis.

It must be recalled that, previous to this, it was the SVG/Cuba Friendship Society and the progressive political movement led by the United People’s Movement, its antecedents and successors, who had kept the links between the two countries alive. This resulted especially in the accession of many young Vincentian students to university scholarships in Cuba, a programme adopted by the Mitchell government and which continues up to today.

The people of St Vincent and the Grenadines can justly feel proud of our relations with Cuba over the last forty years, predating even the 1992 formal diplomatic links. Our country has gained a formidable human resource capacity, the development of intellectual capital with training and formation provided by the Cuban state. In addition, there have been invaluable programmes in health, with the VISION NOW project worthy of special mention, and the selfless provision of resources without which the building of the Argyle International programme would have been a pipe-dream, all testifying to the deep bonds of friendship.

In turn, successive Vincentian governments have resisted external pressures to try and isolate Cuba, have provided valuable political and diplomatic support and, despite our meagre resources, have made contributions to disaster relief when Cuba has suffered in this regard.

We must endeavour to build on this solid foundation of 25 years. Much more can be done in the way of cooperation in the fields of trade, agriculture, sport, tourism and culture, to name a few. Our Society urges positive moves in this direction.

As we mark this esteemed anniversary, we express our gratitude to the Government and people of Cuba, and our appreciation of the positive stand of successive Vincentian governments since 1992. We look forward to the deepening and strengthening of the unbreakable bonds of friendship between our two peoples.

Renwick Rose SVG/Cuba Friendship Society

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Cuba… 25 years of Diplomatic Relations

Introduction THE ACTIVITIES held here last week to mark the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is an occasion to reflect on the close and unique relations between Havana and Kingstown. It is also a good time to examine the foreign policy of the ULP administration, which has brought tremendous benefits to all Vincentians.

When the ULP administration came to office in 2001, the party had already fashioned a policy aimed at expanding its diplomatic relations drive, while at the same time keeping the ties with established countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This was important, for the simple reason that the majority of our Diaspora lived in these countries, particularly the United States.

The ULP’s foreign policy was fashioned around the need to make friends, not enemies, so as to foster peace and international development, all in the interest of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Most independent observers have recognised that the country has created a bold, creative and principled foreign relations policy which is pro-active and robust. The central purpose of this policy is to enable the country to address more efficaciously, and more compelling, its external environment, in the interest of the nation.

It is this activist foreign policy that is at the centre of the achievements in the socio economic development sector. These stories have been told time and time again. They include the construction of the Argyle International Airport, the bridge over the Rabacca river, the Education Revolution and the Vision Now programme.

Cuba St. Vincent and the Grenadines established formal diplomatic relations with Cuba on May 26th 1992, some 25 years ago. At that time, the NDP was the party in power, led

by Sir James Mitchell. While we can praise the move by Sir James to establish diplomatic relations, it is fair to say that Sir James and the NDP did not do enough to develop the relationship between both countries.

However, Vincentians were afforded the opportunity to study in Cuba, and there was a joint commission that was established in 1997, to facilitate development in the areas of education, health, culture, trade and transport.

After 2001, the relation between both countries took on a new energy, with the ULP administration moving to intensify the relationships. For example, in 2005, the ULP administration appointed Dexter Rose as the first ambassador to the Republic of Cuba. Currently Ellsworth John serves as the ambassador in Havana.

Cuba in response, appointed its first ambassador to Kingstown in 2006, when it opened its embassy.

Olga Chamero Trias was the first resident ambassador, and she was followed by ambassadors Pablo Rodriguez, Luis Campos and Vilma Valdespino.

Over the years, the Government and People of the Republic of Cuba have made valuable and meaningful

contributions for the development of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly in the health, education and infrastructure sectors, under a number of projects and programmess.

Cuba has offered a number of scholarships to allow Vincentian students to pursue quality tertiary education in Havana.

In the area of health, a number of Cuban professionals have worked in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, including doctors and nurses.

Vincentians will remember that it was Cuban nurses who filled the void in the health sector, when there was a shortage of nurses just after the ULP administration arrived in office in 2001. A number of Vincentians have taken advantage of the low cost but top quality medical services offered by Havana. The Cuban government has offered a preferential rate and free training for the drug Heberprot-P, the ground breaking diabetic foot ulcer drug.

Perhaps the greatest level of assistance offered to this country by the Cuban people is that provided during the construction of the international airport project at Argyle.

The story of this assistance has already been told many times, but we wish to further highlight the sacrifices made by the Cuban workers in the Chatoyer-Che contingent. Their involvement reduced the construction cost of the project, and saved money for the IADC.

Conclusion There is no doubt that Cuba is a significant country in the Caribbean in terms of socio economic development. Cuba has the largest diplomatic representation of any Latin American country, with 177 embassies and three consulates worldwide. Cuba is a leading member of the nonaligned movement, and organisations such as ALBA, CELAC and the Association of Caribbean States, the ACS. The relationship between Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines is an excellent one, but there is a tiny minority of Vincentians, mainly supporters of the opposition New Democratic Party, who would love to see the back of the Castro government. Readers will remember the attitude displayed by the NDP, when the energy saving bulbs were introduced here. The NDP claimed that the bulbs contained cameras, and will be used by Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves to spy on Vincentians.

What nonsense!

Ralph Gonsalves is a friend of the people of Cuba. He has defended that country whenever he has to do so, but most important, when he delivers his annual address at the United Nations General Assembly. The people of Cuba have endured tremendous hardships due to the blockade instituted by the American government, but they have endured to the point where they can come to the assistance of many Third World countries in a number of ways.

Long live the relationship between Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines!

Accountability is a must ON APRIL 19TH 2017, Dr. the Honourable Godwin Friday, Leader of the Opposition, held a press conference in which he dealt with the issue of accountability and the failure of the Prime Minister, Dr Gonsalves, to present to the parliament of St. Vincent and he Grenadines audited financial statements of the International Airport Development Company. That Press conference set the stage for national discourse on the ‘Lack of National Accountability in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’.

Subsequently, Dr. Friday hosted another press conference in which he dealt again with accountability as it related to Petro Caribe and PDV SVG. During that time, we have heard from the Prime Minister on a number of occasions, as he tried to defend his position as to why the audited financial statements of these companies are not presented to parliament. On those occasions, he referred us to the Commercial intellectual and Property Office (CIPO) where, we were told, the audited statements are lodged.

However, we continue to reiterate and to remind the Prime Minister what the laws are, as it relates to monies appropriated by parliament.

The Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines at sections 75 and 76, the Finance Administration Act 2004 at sections 4, 5, 7, 49, and the Audit Act 2005, at sections 2(4), 5, 11, 12, 15 and 19 all clearly speak to the legal requirement for parliamentary accountability in the use of monies appropriated by Parliament, and for the central role of the Director of Audit in same.

Furthermore, at his press conference on Wednesday 15th May, Dr Friday stated: “The Registrar at CIPO has no role in accountability.

The Constitution clearly defines where the responsibility for accountability lies and it is not housed at CIPO. CIPO is irrelevant to this matter of accountability. But despite that, we heard all sorts of contradictory stories from two separate ministers, about one minister sending an ordinary person to search at CIPO, or calling CIPO to get records sent down to him, or something.

“Well, I hope now that Prime Minister Gonsalves and his son Camillo Gonsalves have had some time to sort out their stories and get it straight between them, that they will also tell us now how is it that, before we raised this matter on April 19th, the entries at CIPO for the companies Petro Caribe No. 126 of 2005 and PDV St Vincent & The Grenadines No 136 of 2006, showed ‘No financials on record’.

But now, all of a sudden, on Tuesday, 9th May, financial statements were lodged at CIPO for one of those companies for the years 2007 and 2008, and for the other one for the years 2009 and 2010. After we raised the issue, someone involved in Petro Caribe went and lodged financials from 7, 8, 9, 10 years ago, at CIPO. And at exactly the same time, the price of the ‘Labour Gas’ supplied through Petro Caribe, was put up, by over nine dollars in some areas, and by $28 for the big bottle in the Grenadines. So that is more money out of your pocket going into

the Petro Caribe scheme, with no accountability!”

This, my people, is our position.

Here we have two Petro Caribe companies, transacting with hundreds of millions of dollars of our money that you paid on your light bills every month, money that people are paying for ‘Labour gas’; money that is a public debt to Venezuela that Vincentians have to repay with interest to Venezuela and yet, you know nothing about these companies and what they are doing with our money.

These companies are operating with public funds. Our money! Your money! According to the Constitution and the law, the Director of Audit must have oversight of these companies, so that she can have their financials audited, and she can then report on those audits to the Minister of Finance, who is then required, by law, to lay the reports in Parliament, as, for example, is done in Jamaica. If that is not done, we don’t know if the government is spending our money properly, or if they are bad-spending it.

Despite the constant old talk from Dr. Gonsalves about good governance, Vincentians have the opposite view.

We have no idea what this ULP administration is doing with our money. Hundreds of millions of dollars is being spent by this government with no accountability.

Being spent in the dark! With no light on it from the Director of Audit.

Moreover, when you look around, the economy is in shambles, violent crime is out of control, there are not even basic supplies in our hospitals, schools all over the country are falling apart and swimming in sewage. The list goes on and on. This country is in the worst shape it has ever been in and Vincentians know it. We see it, we feel, we live it every day. Where exactly have all the hundreds of millions of dollars gone? Is public money being wasted, badly spent, lost, or stolen? Every Vincentian now has to ask this question, because it is a question that is now staring us in the face.

And the real problem is: the responses from Dr. Gonsalves and his camp have done nothing to calm our fears. In fact, the opposite is true.

The contradictory stories, the untruths, the excuses, the evasions, the beating-around-the bush, the hurried filing of ten-year old accounts for Petro Caribe companies at CIPO: all of these things, taken together, convey a sense of the abnormal, and a sense of scandal. These things, taken together, raise the question of whether there is a cover up in progress. Is someone covering up the truth? Is there a widening scandal here? What is the ULP hiding?”

This matter of accountability is fundamental and critical as it goes from top to the bottom of the business of government. It crosses all sectors and it connects to everything else that happens in the business of managing the country.

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Accreditation for Tertiary Level Education Institutions

“Accreditation is important because it: Helps determine if an institution meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality. Helps students determine acceptable institutions for enrollment.

Assists institutions in determining acceptability of transfer credits.” – The Accreditation Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, Washington, United States of America.

WE ARE ENCOURAGED by the number of individuals who continue to pursue higher level education. This is especially evident among the female population. An examination of the enrollment at our regional universities and community colleges reveal that females comprise a significant percentage of the student population. This is now a universal phenomenon. We commend all those who venture to improve their status via this mode of upward mobility and are especially encouraged by those (male and female) who strive for academic excellence. They pursue their studies with passion, and refuse to settle for average performances.

The emergence and expansion of the Internet has resulted in several institutions of higher learning (colleges and universities) seeking to venture beyond their domestic space in providing courses of study in a variety of fields. Several years ago, during a conversation with one of the senior members of staff at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies, it was disclosed that there were approximately one hundred and sixty (160) foreign educational institutions offering courses in the English-speaking Caribbean. Some were enticing prospective online students by offering courses at significantly lower costs than the regional education providers. While some of these services were provided by reputable, recognised, and accredited institutions of higher learning, potential students were cautioned to beware and be aware that “not all cheap things are good, and not all good things are cheap”.

Complaints sometimes surface that some of the certificates were not worth the paper that they were printed on.

Persons desirous of pursuing courses of higher education are encouraged to do the necessary research and be assured that the education providers are legitimate and accredited — that they have the “stamp of approval” to provide such courses.

Several years ago, I had the distinct privilege of being a member of a threeman accreditation team certifying one of the regional business schools. The team leader was selected from one of the more prestigious universities in the United States of America. The other member was an internationally recognized professor from the United Kingdom. The process involved a close examination of all the courses offered.

It was necessary to determine that the rigour and relevance met international standards. In addition, we examined the level and types of qualifications of the lecturers/facilitators. Such an exercise also required that we interview students, graduates, and employers. All of this was done to ensure that the institution was adequately meeting the needs of the various stakeholders.

Accreditation is now an imperative, as educational institutions seek to operate in an ever increasing and competitive market space. It is one way of “separating the sheep from the goats” — ensuring that citizens get value for their money.

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Accreditation Board was commissioned

by Act of Parliament in 2006 and became fully operational by 2008. It prides itself on being “the gatekeeper of a quality assured tertiary level education system in St. Vincent and the Grenadines”. Dr. Rosalind Ambrose is the Board’s Chairman. Other members include the Chief Education Officer, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health or his/her nominee, Director of the Community College or his/her nominee, the Attorney General or his/her nominee, the Chief Personnel Officer or his/her nominee, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Planning or his/her nominee, a representative from the Technical and Vocational Sector, a representative from the Workers’ Institute for Education and Research or any similar body, and representatives from the National Training Agency, the local Bar Association, Medical Association, Teaching Profession, Engineering Discipline, Architectural Profession, and the Accounting Discipline.

Among other tasks, the Accreditation Board is responsible for monitoring the tertiary level institutions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Students, prospective students, and school administrators can be much more comfortable and secure in knowing that individuals and institutions offering courses in our domestic space are authorised to do so. In addition, citizens can be assured that the programmes offered meet local, regional, and international standards.

Accreditation is important because it helps the various stakeholders to ascertain whether the institution meets or exceeds minimum standards of quality. This is especially critical when it is considered how modern technology allows for the relatively easy access to a variety of online courses. In addition, information technology allows potential students to be bombarded by a number of course providers (sometimes offering relatively low prices and easily accomplished course assignments).

Accreditation can therefore assist students in selecting reputable institutions for enrolment — verifying that they will get value for their money.

Employers and potential employers can also feel more secure with their recruitment and promotion practices when they have confidence that the certifications are from credible/approved establishments. This becomes especially important if/when they contribute to the employee’s pursuit of academic courses by granting time off for studies or examinations and, in some cases, assisting with the payment of tuition fees.

We commend the local and regional professionals who dedicate their time and talent to provide much needed and valuable service to the various regional accreditation boards. Their insights and vigilance play a major role in supporting the region’s manpower development. We are forever grateful.

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

USA: Sponsor of Counter Revolution in Venezuela THE US MEDIA has been paying increasing attention to the unfolding crisis in Venezuela. As the US media has done elsewhere, it is attempting to portray the unfolding crisis as a result of a corrupt dictatorship fighting against a “pro-democracy” opposition.

In reality, it is simply a repeat of USdriven regime change aimed at toppling Venezuela’s independent state institutions and replacing them with institutions created by and for US special interests.

The “opposition” is comprised of USbacked political parties and US-funded fronts posing as nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), many of which are listed on the US State Department friendly club.

The UK Independent in a 2016 article titled, “Venezuela accuses US of plotting coup as Washington warns of ‘imminent collapse’,” would even admit: …observers of the region point out that the US has a long history of seeking to interfere in the politics of Venezuela, as well as elsewhere in Latin America.

In addition to supporting those who ousted Mr Chavez in 2002, the US poured hundreds of thousands of dollars to his opponents via the so-called National Endowment for Democracy.

To understand America’s actual role amid Venezuela’s unfolding crisis, one must read policy papers produced by organizations called “think tanks” which devise and promote US policy.

The Brookings Institution is a Fortune 500-funded policy think tank. It is populated by policymakers who represent the collective ambitions of some of the world’s most powerful corporate-financier interests including big-oil, defense, agricultural monopolies, pharmaceutical corporations, media interests, and more.

Brookings and think tanks similar to it, have regularly produced policy and media guidelines later disseminated across the Western media and Western legislatures through public relations firms and lobbyists. Think tanks are where the real agenda of the West is agreed upon and promoted from.

A recent piece featured upon the Brookings Institution’s website titled, “Venezuela: A path out of crisis,” lays out a 5-point plan toward escalating Venezuela’s already precarious situation: 1. The United States could expand its assistance to countries that until now have been dependent on Venezuelan oil, as a means to decrease regional support for and dependence on the Maduro government.

2. The United States could increase monetary assistance to credible civil society organizations and nongovernmental organizations able to deliver food and medicines to Venezuelans. By doing so, the United States should make clear that international pressure aims to support democracy, not punish the Venezuelan people.

3. The United States could support efforts by the opposition in Venezuela to build an “off-ramp” that would split moderate elements of the government away from hardliners, encouraging the former to acquiesce to a transition to democracy by lowering their costs of exiting government.

4. The United States could coordinate with international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to offer financial incentives for holding free and fair elections in 2018, and for the opposition to unify and compete in those elections. Such coordination would also involve developing and publicizing a credible plan to restart Venezuela’s economy.

5. As a last resort, the United States could consider raising economic costs to the government through an expanded sanctions regime that aims to limit Venezuelan earnings from oil exports and block further financing. This policy is risky, given that the Maduro

government would be able to more credibly shift blame for the economic crisis onto the United States, and should be accompanied by well-publicized efforts to deliver humanitarian aid through credible civil society and nongovernmental organizations.

It is a prescription for further economic isolation, US-funded political subversion, and with its reference to “a transition to democracy,” an oblique call for regime change.

The US media — particularly organizations operating from under right cover — have portrayed Venezuela’s economic crisis as primarily related to “socialism” and corruption. In reality, factors that would have only impeded the full realization of Venezuela’s economic progress have been intentionally compounded through US sanctions, economic sabotage, and political subversion to precipitate the currently unfolding socioeconomic and humanitarian crisis.

Venezuela would not be the first nation the US targeted for economic implosion in South America.

The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in its own online archives available to the public under a section titled, “CIA Activities in Chile,” would admit: According to the Church Committee report, in their meeting with CIA Director Richard Helms and Attorney General John Mitchell on 15 September 1970 President Nixon and his National Security Advisor, Henry Kissinger, directed the CIA to prevent the democratically elected Allende from taking power. They were “not concerned [about the] risks involved,” according to Helms’ notes. In addition to political action, Nixon and Kissinger, according to Helms’s notes, ordered steps to “make the economy scream.” Bush, Obama and now Trump is carrying out that same counter revolutionary policy in Venezuela.

These Cold War attitudes persisted into the Pinochet era. After Pinochet came to power, senior policymakers appeared reluctant to criticize human rights violations, taking to task US diplomats urging greater attention to the problem. US military assistance and sales grew significantly during the years of greatest human rights abuses. According to a previously released Memorandum of Conversation, Kissinger in June 1976 indicated to Pinochet that the US Government was sympathetic to his regime, although Kissinger advised some progress on human rights in order to improve Chile’s image in the US Congress.

With violence increasing in the streets of Venezuela and many of the rhetorical tactics used to set the stage for violent regime change and humanitarian catastrophe in Libya and Syria now being used to topple the government in Caracas — the world must get ahead of the propaganda and begin exposing this open conspiracy against yet another sovereign nation.

Venezuela’s political system is for the Venezuelan people themselves to decide — without US interference. A government dominated by US-backed opposition members will leave Venezuela as an extension of US corporate-financier special interests, not an alternative or check against them. This only serves in inviting further abuse by these interests not only in South America, but all around the world — Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, and Ukraine for example — where America’s unwarranted wealth and influence is sowing instability, conflict, and catastrophe.

This piece, with minor addition, was written by Tony Cartalucci and published by Global research: Centre for research on Globalization.

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

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Accountability and transparency

lacking under Gonsalves

worrying, as it can cause public unrest and a climate of high rates of ACCORDING to Warrant Officer Ivan the ULP regime to account. access to public areas of accounts - for unemployment and gun crime.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, example, the Inland Revenue All statutory bodies’ financial strongly contends that the accountability and transparency are Department in 2008, (Source Audit statements, once they have been lacking under Gonsalves. tabled in the SVG House of Assembly, Report 2008) - and the transparency of Westminster model of government is not functioning in SVG, because some There is a substantial lack of parts of the public accounts. must be made available for public members of the SVG House of financial accountability and transFor the years 2008, 2009 and 2010, Assembly are not honourable under scrutiny. For example, it is not parency in our country, and this is a Gonsalves failed the audit of public possible to get sight of the CWSA the Westminster model of government. gross abuse of power. There are people financial statements that have been accounts. When a minister is not On 27 April 2017, the UK who want to add 2 plus 2 and call it 5. tabled in the SVG House of Assembly. competent in a specialised field, that parliament passed an important These people improvise to ‘fudge’ the minister should resign. Gonsalves has provision of the Criminal Finance Bill The International Airport accounts, and this can cause long-term Development Company - is it not a not resigned as the SVG Minister of that introduces a powerful new financial damage to our country.

Finance. Gonsalves should resign as statutory body? We demand free weapon into the anti-corruption According to Transparency Interthe SVG Minister of Finance, so that arsenal: Unexplained Wealth Orders. access to all IADC financial national, information is fundamental we can get proper accountability and The provision specifically targets statements that have been tabled in to make informed decisions. Inforred flag situations where a person transparency. the SVG House of Assembly. buying expensive items, like property mation is also power. Where it is not For example, the previous UK Corruption is defined by or jewels, doesn’t appear to be wealthy freely accessible, corruption can thrive Transparency International as the Prime Minister David Cameron, enough to make the purchase. If the and basic rights might not be realised. misuse of entrusted power for personal pushed for a ‘NO’ vote in the UK People can hide corrupt acts behind a gain. “In too many countries, people BREXIT referendum. He did not get a person has links to serious crime or access to public money, then the veil of secrecy. are deprived of their most basic needs, majority ‘NO’ vote, and he resigned. authorities can act.

When our right to know is denied, When corruption is disguised as a and go to bed hungry every night SVG needs greater transparency we can’t hold decision makers or legal procedure, it can often be because of corruption, while the and accountability of the public institutions to account for their difficult for ordinary citizens to fight powerful and corrupt enjoy lavish accounts. The SVG Freedom of actions. back. Ordinary citizens are being lifestyles with impunity,” José Ugaz, information Act 2003 should have been Financial accountability and denied accountability and Chair of Transparency International. proclaimed, so that we have proper transparency are fundamental for good transparency to public accounts.

The SVG 1979 Constitutionally access to government information. governance in SVG. The lack of access appointed Director of Audit of Public There is a general lack of confidence to the accounts of statutory bodies, Accounts has expressed concerns about in the financial accountability and SVG Green Party means ordinary citizens cannot hold transparency in our country. It is quite Bacchus, John Horne, Lennox Bowman, Joel Providence, Rene I THINK some recognition them. Just ‘Big them up’; Baptiste, Winston Baptiste, Sebastian should be given by the show some appreciation ‘Bassy’ Alexander, Calvert Carnival Development for their contribution.

Corporation (CDC), to Some of the names that (Philo’s) Phillips, (the some persons who played readily come to mind are: pioneer of D.J music on the street), Auguastus their part to develop Bertram ‘Molly’ Arthur, ‘Chippy’ Browne, Alric Vincy Mas. They don’t Eddison ‘Sheggy’ John, have to be awarded. It Lennox ‘Scully’Hunte, Roy ‘Ricky’ Hillocks, Toiler, Scakes, Ebou, Abijah, may cost too much, Ralph, Cyp Neehall, Professor, Patches, Ipa, because it’s hundreds of Alpian Tony, Junior CP, Poser, Rejector, all overseas based calypsonians, Tanny Peters, Olsen Peters, Douggie ‘Nose’ Joseph and Errol ‘Sardo’ Sutherland and the incomparable Frankie Mc Intosh.

This list can go on and on. I am sure that every person over fifty years can add at least one name, (masman, pannist, calypsonian, musician, administrator, etc.) to the list I have presented.

It’s up to CDC to do the honours.

Big them up, CDC

Carnival Watcher

Politics is a dirty game and⁄ Last week’s VINCENTIAN’s editorial captioned, ‘Why do people say politics is a dirty game’, was timely as it was factual.

The factual exposition of the editorial summed up in damning detail the political landscape of St. Vincent and the Grenadines from the past to the present — the manipulators and the recipients in the scheme of things, and the beneficiaries and the losers completing the political cast.

Regardless of whichever political party assumes the rein of government in the future, we as a people need to make a transition in our attitude. We must stop defining politicians as our national masters; we need to demand that we have a voice in the democratic process by bringing our ideas on board. Once these ideas are viable, they should be implemented.

Unfortunately, from time immemorial, we, the Vincentian electorate, do not vote on national issues that would affect us positively. We are more inclined to be drawn into partisan political warfare. Calypsonian IPa’s rendition ‘Put yo country before yo party’ is a clarion call with relevance up to today.

Because we, the Vincentian electorate, is not self-assertive, it would be difficult for most of us to empower ourselves when it comes to making a decision that will enhance the development of this country.

Moreover, most of us fall woefully short of being analytical, especially when it comes to debating issues of national importance. We are mere voting cattle. The politicians on all sides of the fence are likely, now and in the future, to take advantage of our political imbecility.

Politics is a dirty game, and because we are responsible for pampering our politicians, they feel they have an unfettered right to ride roughshod over us. They treat us as pawns, still we love and revere them. Independent thinking is disallowed!

Many of us, in order to survive, must show our loyalty to politicians, esteem them as demi-gods, and dare not question their decisions.

I repeat: last week’s editorial in THE VINCENTIAN summed up the Vincentian political landscape in damning details.

Patmos Richards

Wanted: An expeditious ruling on the Petitions WHY IS IT TAKING so long for a ruling on the Election Petitions to be made? Four weeks have gone, and the people of SVG are yet to have had a decision.

This matter has significant bearing on our governance going forward, not only as it relates to elections, but the petitions come at a time when our country faces a situation of spiraling crime, mounting unemployment and a far from encouraging economic environment.

Moreover, the matter is

important to our democracy that makes a clear distinction — a clear separation - between the Executive (arm of government) and the Judiciary. Hence, the anxiety that currently pervade, SVG as the period leading up to a decision is drawn out.

Perhaps we need to take a leaf from the USA where the court moved expeditiously to rule against President Trump’s immigration policy - a striking demonstration of separation of powers.

To delay the ruling on the Petitions any longer is to hold this country in limbo. There is a simple choice in the matter — either the Petitions have worth for furtherance. The quicker we make the decisions the quicker we can get on with the business of State.

I appeal to the learned judge to move expeditiously to bring us a ruling on this important matter.

Kadmiel Mc Fee War Veteran

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 13.

Service

Lessons about safety LAST THURSDAY, May 25, there was a feeling of order on the roads of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

That was perhaps occasioned by a heightened degree of cordiality among police officers, minibus operators and commuters.

All of this, though, had to do with the staging of a Minibus Operators Day. The Police Constable Shorn Williams anticipates that the new Traffic Regulations will address the concerns expressed about the minibus service.

initiative was aimed primarily at building relationship between Ministry of Education and Minibus Operators and included the mounting of a number of information booths throughout Kingstown.

Emphasis was on safety in its broadest ways.

Senator Debbie Charles looked at the exercises as helping to show appreciation to the minibus operators.

She made it plain that government was not getting into the aspect of public transport.

Police Constable Shorn Williams dismissed any suspicion of ongoing conflicts between minibus operators and law enforcement officers. He expressed the view that Minibus operators need only to read the laws so as to ensure their compliance.

With respect to the complaint about loud and excessive music in minibuses, Williams anticipates that the passage of new regulations will impact that situation.

The decision to carry out the awareness was engineered by the Education Ministry. The effort included Training Workshops for Bus Operators in the Eastern Caribbean.

Metrocint General Insurance was one of private entities supporting the

event.

Metrocint’s Underwriter Catherine Gibson looked at her company’s participation as keeping within their policy of providing maximum insurance coverage to minibus owners and the wider public.

Catherine Gibson Kenneth Abraham, of Metrocint School Bus Field Officer in the Ministry General Insurance, of Transport and assured that her Works, regarded the operation as fulfilling. company was here to offer the He is hoping for best coverage on greater collaboration vehicles. between road users so that all come out with gains. He lamented careless driving and the tendency to cause accidents.

Abraham highlighted the role that Minibus operators play, and said that they ought to be appreciated.

The day’s activity was mounted, in part, to recognise the vital service minibus operators provide here in SVG.

Call 526-5756 or 533-2472

LAND FOR SALE At Harmony Hall 10,075 sq. ft. for further information

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Carnival Build-up

South Leeward alive for Carnival

LAST SUNDAY afternoon, May 28, the road network linking Campden Park, Questelles (Top and Bottom) and Chauncey was overrun with overly exuberant young people, as they took to parading in their now annual Sunday Jump-up.

The activity, part of the South Leeward 2017 carnival activities, one of many rural carnivals that serve as a build-up to the national festival - Vincy mas, was the climax to a weekend of activities that opened on Saturday evening with the Miss South Leeward Pageant, followed by a ‘J’Ouvert jump-up that preceded the Sunday afternoon jam.

The Miss South Leeward Pageant was, according to sources in the communities involved, a

much anticipated event, in which there were five contestants.

The young ladies were put through the usual categories of judging — swim wear, evening wear, talent and interview — and at the end of the evening, the judges decided that Jenneilla Thomas — a 19year-old resident of Clare Valley and a student at the Division of Technical and Vocational Studies of the SVG Community College, was Miss South Leeward 2017.

Jenneilla, appearing as Miss Lulley’s Fishing Supplies, copped first place in the interview and evening wear categories.

Following closely in the 1st Runner-up spot was Vermont resident Marsha Marshall (Miss Brackin

Welding Service), who topped the talent category.

Shameika Knights (Miss Ryan’s Wholesale) of Lower Questelles, took the 2nd Runner-up position.

The other contestants were Lashawn Bowens (Miss Chance Unique Furniture), who was adjudged tops in the swim wear category, and Deniele Bascombe (Miss Pinchers Trucking & BlockMaking).

This was the first time since 2012 that the Miss South Leeward Pageant was being held, and

organizers, pleased with the return, are already planning the 2018 edition.

The 2017 Miss South Leeward Pageant was held at the Dzia Sports Bar/Club in Questelles which, as a warm-up to the official South Leeward carnival activities, hosted the Upstate Experience (calypso tent) on the night of Friday 26th May.

Miss South Leeward 2017 Jenneilla Thomas (seated), flanked by Ist Runner-up Marsha Marshall (right) and 2nd Runner-up Shameika Knights. (Facebook) Right: Jenneilla Thomas displays her winning Evening Wear.

(Facebook)

Dzia hosts an ‘Upstage Experience’ LAST FRIDAY NIGHT, Dzia Sports Bar/Club, Questelles, came alive as they hosted the Upstage Calypso Tent, with their arsenal of veterans and newcomers showcasing their presentations for Vincy Mas 2017.

The show provided solid entertainment to its patrons even from the Master of Ceremonies who, between acts, provided the usual jokes and even a rendition of ‘Brave’, the current chart busting soca hit by Dynamite.

Backed by a nine-piece band (including brass) and the sweet, angelic voices of the Upstage Angels doing background vocals, artiste after artiste impressed with unencumbered renditions, earning warm receptions from the patrons.

One of the artistes — 2004 Road March winner Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles, who, it appears, has a passion for nostalgia, included a rendition of the 1977 Road March ‘Doh Lock me up’, by Earl

Orande ‘Bomani’ Charles added to the evening’s “Experience’ with some nostalgia.

‘Gringo’ Bennett.

Bomani admitted the song came long before he was born, but this did not take away from his interpretation that made it sound as though the song was ‘brand new’.

The incredible voice of 2012 Road March and calypso Monarch winner Lornett ‘Fya Empress’ Nedd was also on point, with her ‘Guilty as Charged’ - her lyrics and expressions so clear the

Lornette ‘Fyah Empress’ Nedd is waxing lyrics that set her up as a real contender for the Calypso Monarch title. experience was much like being transported into a well-directed movie.

Other outstanding performances came from Lil Bit, Cleopatra, veteran Defoe and newcomer Joanna Christopher.

If you haven’t yet had an ‘Upstage Experience ‘ get one. It is well worth it. (CD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 15.

Carnival Build-up

Ivoleen Williams

A little bit of Carnival history Kimora Sutherland

Keisha Laborde

Patsy Warren

Shaniel Victory

ÂHold your own for Owia CarnivalÊ THE 2017 EDITION of Carnival in Owia, North Windward, is set to kick off tonight, June 2, with the staging of the Miss OSCO Pageant 2017.

According to the Owia Sports and Cultural Organization (OSCO) — organisers and host of the Owia Carnival, five ladies are down to compete in what they say is not your typical pageant.

Notable in its difference is that the contestants are all of different sizes, shapes and age groups, and each has been dubbed with references that speak to empowerment, especially of women.

The five contestants are: Pasty Warren-Miss Humanity; Ivoleen Williams-Miss Limitless; Shaniel VictoryMiss Powerful; Keisha Laborde-Miss Glamorous;

Kimora Sutherland-Miss Amity Following the Pageant, set to commence at 9pm at the Owia School grounds, the action continues with a J’Ouvert on the morning of Saturday 3rd.

A Mardi Gras style street jump-up is scheduled for Sunday 4th June and activities will climax with an after party in the form of a ‘Wete Fete’.

Miss Windward 2017 Contestants

Lourie John Miss Sandy Bay

Arielle Ollivierre Miss Stubbs

Makesha Johnson Miss Lowmans Windward

Shanese Hackshaw Miss South Rivers

Jimesia Bowens Miss Georgetown

The 2017 Owia Carnival, the 4th to be organized by OSCO, will be celebrated under the theme, ‘Hold Your Own for Owia Carnival 2k17’, and has attracted The St. Vincent Brewery and FLOW as its major sponsors.

Like all rural carnivals, the Owia Carnival is endorsed by the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC).

EARDLEY ‘GRINGO’ BENNETT OF CALLIAQUA ROAD MARCH VINCY MAS 1977 WITH‘DOH LOCK ME UP’ ‘GRINGO was also Road March winner in 1975 with ‘LEGGO ME HAND’

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16. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Community

Just a portion of the equipment and supplies handed over last Tuesday.

A demonstration of caring for others PASTOR ROBERT MC BARNETT has to be a man on a mission. His life’s works seem to be taken up with caring for others.

That demonstration of his caring attitude for his fellowmen and fellow Vincentians began April 2012, with the donation of a wheel chair from Gordon Grant, a Stubbs born man.

Grant’s sister Sharon is married to McBarnett.

Since then, Pastor McBarnett, through his St. Matthias Charities Inc., has been creating a trail of benevolence to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The last such act came Tuesday, May 30 at the Medical Health Rehabilitation Centre at Villa, where the Pastor, his wife and Grant, handed over a quantity of medical equipment and other supplies, including pampers, surgical gloves, mops, buckets, disinfectants, wheel chairs, walkers, crutches, soaps, and almost anything that elderly patients require.

The gifts are for patients at the Medical Health Rehabilitation Centre and those housed at the Lewis Punnett Home.

Diana Bailey, Senior Nursing Officer in charge of the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre, confessed that institutions like those receiving the gifts “have greater needs than resources.”

She noted that there were ten new persons entering the Mental Health Rehabilitation every week, and in that regard, she was especially grateful for the help.

She used the occasion to plea for support for patients when they are discharged. She hinted on the need for friendship, housing, work, and opined that “promoting good mental health can promote a gentler society.”

Health Minister Luke Browne, also on hand to witness the presentation, looked at the donation as fitting into the pieces of a collaborative strategy.

Pastor McBarnett comes from the bowels of the Spiritual Baptist awakening, being the grandson of Percival Dick, a founding pillar in the Spiritual Baptist Movement here.

He describes his action as a “non-stop job,” aimed at “changing lives.” Whatever the sacrifices entail, McBarnett is prepared to meet them, for he considers, “it is worth it.”

McBarnett sees part of his mission as “making life less stressful for the staff, and providing a safer environment for the patients.”

The New York-based St. Matthias Charities Inc. raises funds to purchase equipment and supplies through barbecues, prayer breakfasts, and an

Pastor Robert McBarnette and the St. Matthias Charoties Inc. are on a mission to ‘change lives.”

Diana Bailey, Senior Nursing Officer in charge of the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre, used the occasion to appeal for support for those suffering mental illness. annual Gala Dinner.

Vincentians in the diaspora (USA especially) have been forthcoming with their support. (WKA)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 17.

Business

LPG retailers overcharging THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE has confirmed that there have been reports from members of the public that retailers of LPG have been charging prices above what has been prescribed.

Alberto Cornwall, Coordinator for Consumer Affairs in the Department of Trade, made the disclosure on Wednesday during a telephone interview with THE VINCENTIAN. The issue surfaced amidst allegations of price gouging by some business outlets, following the recent move in the rate of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15 percent to 16 percent.

He explained that LPG is among price controlled items, therefore, the price for LPG is set.

Recent official communication from the Ministry of Trade fixed the prices for LPG as of May 10, 2017, as follows:

The Ministry of Trade warned then that under the Price and Distribution of Goods Act (Cap 161), no person shall sell, buy, or agree to sell or buy any goods at a price greater than the maximum fixed price for that good.

Any person who contravenes this provision is guilty of an offence and liable to a fine of not less than $1,500.00 but not more than $3,000.00, (this is in the case of a first offence). In the case of a second or

subsequent offence, within twelve calendar months, the individual is liable to a fine of not less $3,000.00 but not more than $15,000.00. (DD)

Vigilance will prevent price gouging CONSUMERS are being urged to be vigilant against business entities that may be guilty of price gouging.

The issue was raised by Senator Julian Francis, Minister of Transport and Works on his Tuesday night radio programme, ‘ULP Speaks’.

“A lot of persons are making a lot of noise on what some describe as significant increases of the price of items because of a one percent increase in VAT (Value Added Tax) moving from 15 to 16 percent,” Francis said.

He explained that there was a simple arithmetic formula that consumers can use to determine if they are being ripped off or not.

According to Francis, if consumers wanted to be sure and know what the price of an item was now supposed to be, all they needed to do was to then divide the price you paid before by 115 and multiply that figure by 116 According to the Minister, there were lots of rumours of false pricing being reported.

Deputy Comptroller of the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Martina Primus told THE VINCENTIAN that she was not aware of any formal complaints coming in from consumers in relation to price gouging.

She indicated, however, that the IRD has seen instances where businesspeople have had issues pricing items following the May 1st implementation of a one percent increase in VAT. Primus assured that they have been working with some business houses in order to rectify this issue.

Coordinator for Consumer Affairs in the Department of Trade Alberto Cornwall, also indicated that his department has not to date, received any formal complaints with respect to the implementation of the new VAT rate.

East Indians as West Indians Continued fron Page 8.

Dr. Gideon Cordice, a natural if not a national hero, together with Edson Bowman went on to form the S.N.M. The top echelon of the public services featured Hugh Bowman and the brothers Pat and Leon Huggins at Permanent Secretary level.

In agriculture, there have been the Deanes, Sutherlands, and Bullocks who spread their wholesome effect far and wide.

The rising business community have been blessed with Ricky Hillocks, Dennis Da Silva, the Jacks and Denzil Bacchus, a Jeweller whose brightest gem is his commitment to jazz, Black music! Ranny Russell did his share both in politics and business.

Two of three national newspapers, The Vincentian and The News has Indian editors, Cyp Neehall and Shelly Clarke respectively.

Happily, the new thrust is led by persons of a modern outlook and hands-on experience such as the two Junior Bacchus’ and Arnold Thomas of intellectual depth, who will ensure that the foundation does not degenerate into narrow, selfish perspectives, despite the temptations to identify with India which was formally born in 1947, and today is rated among the super-powers of the world.

In any event, the litmus test shows that many Indians in leadership roles marry outside their race, and it is significant that current President of the organisation Junior Bacchus is of mixed descent, like Trinidad Calypsonian, Dougla, who in a similar context says that they might have to split him in Two!

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18. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY SAINT VINCENT & THE GRENADINES

Credit Unions et al: Enhancing Regulatory Compliance Systems to Combat Challenges best practices have been around for many years, but never before has their Overview: application been of such value, or more pertinent, GLOBAL FINANCIAL regulations, standards and to maintaining financial PART 1

stability. The collapse and near insolvency of large conglomerates in recent times have had negative repercussions on the economies of the

Caribbean and the world.

These failures of major financial conglomerates have triggered mammoth reviews of the procedures

SVG’s Non -Banking Reality In St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Credit Unions, Building and Friendly Societies collectively represent a significant part of the financial sector’s total assets, in part because they focus on providing retail financial services to low and middle income individuals. When their assets are collectively compared to commercial banks, their importance to the financial system of our island is amplified.

For example, statistics in 2013, obtained from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank showed that the total assets of the commercial banking sector were approximately EC$2.0 billion. Total assets of the credit union, building societies and friendly societies, collectively, was approximately 29% of total commercial banking sector assets.

The impact of these sectors on the economy can therefore be significant.

In the earlier years of development, the regulatory focus for these sectors was on basic functions such as licensing and registration. However, these establishments have matured, and today require standards for prudential behaviour to match the level of maturity and the risk exposure of the businesses. They have become systemically important to the economy of SVG and are now a known alternative to the commercial banking system. In addition to this, the population served is unlikely to be able to weather any unpleasant surprises that will adversely affect their funds. These facts have resulted in the reengineering of the regulatory and supervisory focus of the Financial Services Authority (FSA), SVG’s regulatory authority, for these sectors.

used by Regulators to identify, track and mitigate against vulnerabilities and threats to financial systems across the world, by international governing bodies. These assessments resulted in the modernisation of regulatory frameworks, to create a blueprint response to the triggers of economic fallout, in the hope of preventing future crises.

For the less advanced economies, particularly those in Caribbean region and more specifically, the business model of certain nonbank financial institutions such as Credit Unions, Building Societies and Friendly Societies, these new requirements undoubtedly challenge traditional principles and beliefs.

Notwithstanding the unique and commendable traditions set by the said non-bank financial institutions which still very much have their place in today’s world, consideration must equally be given to the composition of membership of these institutions, the interconnectedness of individuals to more than one of the three business types mentioned above and the likely impact on families, if internal structure, organization and business models do not evolve to meet the global regulatory minimums. A single adverse event, especially in a small economy, could very well shock our financial system and destroy economic balance. It is likely also that failure to satisfactorily implement sound compliance standards, could significantly impede trade and adversely impact our already fragile Caribbean brand, where for many countries, financial services and tourism Submitted by: revenues are the main Financial Services drivers of economic Authority activity.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 19.

Health

The importance of Social Support on Mental Health “Mental Health is a shared responsibility” SOCIAL SUPPORT is the physical and emotional comfort given to us by our family, friends, co-workers and others. This is knowing that we are part of a community of people who love and care for us, and value and think well of us. Social support enhances quality of life and provides a buffer against adverse life events. There is evidence to show that social support plays an important role in mental health. For example, people who are clinically depressed report lower levels of social support than people who are not currently depressed. Specifically, people coping with depression tend to report fewer supportive friends, less contact with their friends, less satisfaction with their friends and relatives, lower marital satisfaction, and confide less in their partners. It is likely that lack of social support and feelings of loneliness can make us more vulnerable to the onset of mental health problems.

In general, the best support comes from the people we are closest to.

Research has shown that receiving support from people we have close emotional ties to does more for our emotional and physical health than support provided by people we are not particularly close to.

Support can come in many different forms: * Emotional Support: This is what people most often think of when they talk about social support. People are emotionally supportive when they tell us that they care about us and empathize with what we are going through. For example, if you separated from your partner or lose your job, a close friend might call every day for the first few weeks afterwards just to see how you are doing and to let you know that he or she cares. * Practical Help: People who care about us give us practical help such as gifts of money or food, assistance with cooking, childcare, or help moving. This kind of support helps us complete the basic tasks of day-to-day life. * Sharing Points of View: Another

way for people to help is to offer their opinion about how they view a particular situation, or how they would choose to handle it. In sharing points of view, we can develop a better understanding of our situation and the best way to handle it. * Sharing Information: It can be very helpful when family, friends or even experts give us factual information about a particular stressful event.

How Do I Improve My Social Support Network?

1. Get more from the support you have: While being careful not to overwhelm support providers, ask for what you need from others and be as specific as possible in your requests. It’s a mistake to think that people will automatically know what you need - you will have to tell them.

2. Ask for help.

3. Create new opportunities: Step outside your comfort zone, if you just keep on doing what you always do, hoping to meet new people, you probably will fail.

4. Let go of unhealthy ties.

5. Avoid negative relationships.

Compiled by: Shunelle Nedd – Social Worker at Mental Health Rehabilitation Center Email: mhcsvg@gmail.com Contact #458-4240

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A moral obligation making advances toward me. I blanked him every time. He finally let me ABOUT TWO years ago I go with the excuse that I applied for a job at a was not efficient enough. reputable business place I had a six-month in Kingstown. The manager who interviewed probation period, so he used that as the perfect me made it plain and excuse. I pleaded with straight that if he hired me, he would have to sleep him to keep me on but he would not budge. with me.

Not too long ago I met I told him there and then, this was not going him and he asked me if I to happen. He hired me wanted my job back, with the same conditions. I but said he was giving accepted. me time to get things What he did not know going with him. was I since contracted I was one month into the HIV virus from my the job when he started

Dear George,

boyfriend. He, my boss, started sleeping with me and I made sure he got what he deserved. Now he is busy spreading it around because that is the kind of person he is wild and arrogant.

I am planning on sending him a note suggesting that he go and get tested.

My hope is that this situation would send the message to all the other men like him who just want to use and sexually abuse women. I hope they do not get to sleep at night until they change their nasty ways.

Used and abused

were better off not being in that environment.

Having contracted HIV, you have a moral and legal obligation not to wantonly and revengefully spread it about.

It would be a good idea for you to get some counselling. It is normal for someone contracting HIV to be angry and harbor feelings of revenge. It wasn’t your fault that you are HIV positive.

You can still lead a full life, once you get the necessary help that is available for persons living with HIV/AIDS

George Dear Used, You had every right to refuse the advancements of your employer. Given his lack of morals, you

Holes in my condoms Dear George, I JUST FOUND out that my girlfriend deliberately punched holes in my condoms so she could get pregnant and so keep me glued to her.

She bragged about it to her girlfriend who told me in confidence.

When her girlfriend broke the news to me, I immediately checked the condoms I had in the drawer in my bedroom, and sure enough, they all had tiny holes. I filled them with water and the result was astounding. I showed them all to her and she confessed to her wicked act.

She is now pregnant and I have no intention of staying with her. Am I as wicked as she says I am, to walk away and leaving her pregnant?

Vex vex Dear Vex vex, There is no room for deception and lies in a relationship. The actions of your girlfriend are unacceptable.

You are well within your right to walk away from a relationship that does not take your interest into consideration. However, that does not exempt you from fulfilling your obligations as a father. Once the child comes into the picture, then you need to accept your parental responsibilities and do what is to be done.

George

Cut the rope, man!! lock up. The thing is, those thoughts are hard I HAVE THOUGHTS of to get rid of.

This woman has done doing terrible things to my girlfriend, but I know me so many terrible they could land me in the things. She had one of

Dear George,

her men sleep in my pajamas while I was away on the seas. Then she had any abortion believing that she was preganant for another man and not me.

I was the one who built the house she is in, and she has to be brainless to be doing the things she is doing. I want her out of my house, but she does not want to leave. She asked me to let her stay there while I am away, so she could keep “an eye” on the property, but as it turns out, she is keeping more than an eye on it.

That does not sit well with me.

Out at sea Dear Out at sea, The responsible thing to do in your case is to give her a reasonable time to get her things together and move out of your house, if that is what you want.

Getting yourself involved in actions that will put you on the wrong side of the law is not the way to go. If your girlfriend is not being faithful, you need to do some downsizing and let her go. It is time to cut the rope and let her boat go out to sea.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Join a club to work off that excess energy; but consider ways of doing that without spending the money. If you're feeling uncertain, spend some time alone and reevaluate your motives as well as your needs. It will be all around you. You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) It would be in your best interest to stay away from any intimate involvement with a client or coworker.

Don't offer to pay for others. You will be attracted to unusual forms of entertainment and foreign cultures. Cutbacks at work will be a cause for worry.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Look into projects that you feel would con tribute something to your appearance. Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that will change the conditions you've been living under. Don't spend too much in order to impress others. Loans will be attainable and legal matters easily taken care of.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) New romantic partners will evolve through group endeavors; however, the association may not be likely to last. Look at your options before making commitments that could jeopardize your financial position. Sudden romantic encounters are quite likely, but discretion will be a must.

Instant romance could be yours if you go out with friends.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty. Get involved in sports groups or hobbies that attract you.

Those who have been too demanding should be put in their place or out to pasture. This day was meant for love. Make creative changes to your residence.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don't let someone you work with put words in your mouth. Don't overreact if your partner has a poor attitude.

Travel will be fun, but expect it to cost you.

You will feel the limitations if you have been overdoing it.

ACROSS

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Family outings should include visiting friends or relatives.

You're on to something tangible and need to act fast You will find yourself tied to the phone. Sudden changes regarding work and colleagues are apparent.

1. Cook 5. Dealer in foodstuffs 11. Air (prefix) 12. Likely to change 13. Delves 14. Thinks 15. Causing erosion 17. Evening 18. Frozen water 19. So be it 20. Impertinent 23. Meager 24. Chunk 25. Born 26. Curve 27. Woman who writes poetry 31. Animal that catches mice 33. Entrance 34. Mistakes 35. Roofing item 36. Forman gesture of respect 37. English public school

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your irritability will lead to family squabbles. Try to include friends and relatives in your activities. Your mind is on moneymaking ventures. Ask those in key positions to help you overcome the delays and to support your concerns in order to move on.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You can meet interesting new friends if you join worthwhile groups. You may be out of sorts If you have been extravagant or have let children or friends take advantage of you financially. Look into intellectual and physical games that will test your abilities. There's lots to be done and if you meet your deadline you'll be in your boss's good books.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Enjoy some socializing this week. You can bet that someone in a higher position is watching to see how busy you are. Organizations may cost you more than you can afford. You may want to tell someone how you really feel.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Your determination and stamina will make your work look flaw less and effortless. Resist secret affairs that could be detrimental to your reputation.

Don't be too critical. Your lover may be annoyed if you have been flirtatious or not attentive to their needs.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don't be too hard on yourself. Your ability to be practical in business will help. Your partner may make you feel jealous and unloved. You may find yourself caught in a triangle.

DOWN 1. Juniper 2. Inheritor 3. Therefore 4. Rummage 5. Covering for the

hand 6. Act of despoliation 7. Japanese sash 8. Picture theater 9. Cricket team 10. Take as an affront 16. Very cold 19. A salt of acetic acid 20. Disgraces 21. Roman goddess of the dawn 22. Straighten

out 23. Perceive with the eyes 25. Norwegian 27. Saucy 28. Prepare for

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 21.

publication 29. Structure for storing grain 30. Type of gun 32. Former coin of France

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 23.

“We should aim for Division One colleges first,” Renson Haynes ONE FORMER SPORTS scholarship recipient – Renson Haynes, believes that not enough effort is being made to have Vincentian athletes enrolled in Division One colleges and universities in the USA. Haynes, a former St Vincent and the Grenadines footballer, who attended the Central Connecticut State University, insists that persons who are seeking to get opportunities for young Vincentian studentathletes, are settling for

“mediocrity.”

Haynes, using his own experiences, stated that as a footballer, playing in Division One of the college setup adequately prepared him for representing St Vincent and the Grenadines in World Cup qualifiers in 2004.

“Why is it that Vincy athletes always have to be settling for mediocre sports scholarship opportunities in the USA? Why are we accepting the hardly recognised scholarships where Vincy

athletes can’t be fully covered by these scholarships?” Haynes questioned.

“Don’t get me wrong… I don’t have a problem with the junior colleges, but I think we should aim higher. We need to stop limiting ourselves… and those pushing these opportunities for these athletes, forget about personal recognition and connect with the people who can actually help with better opportunities to avoid exploitation of Vincy talents to levels off subpar … These options should only be explored if you shoot for the stars and it didn’t work,” Haynes stated.

“We prefer to limit ourselves whilst the Jamaicans, Trinidadians, Grenadians and Barbadians are racking up top Division One scholarships,” Haynes lamented.

Several Vincentian track and field athletes and footballers are enrolled in the US collegiate and junior college systems.

Opposing view L-R: Rogike Thorpe and Kailon Kirby.

However, one former St Vincent and the

Renson Haynes Also taking a different view from Haynes’ stance was Physical Education teacher at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School - Godfrey Harry.

Two of Harry’s former athletes at the Thomas Saunders Secondary School- Rogike Thorpe and Kailon Kirby - are enrolled at the Kingsborough Khalil Cato (left) and Godfrey Harry.

Community College (KCC), New York. junior colleges …The Grenadines athlete and The two, along with collegiate set up is four Olympian — Khalil Cato, another Vincentian takes an opposing view to years of schooling as the athlete — Shantal Rouse, junior college takes care of helped KCC to the that held by Haynes, stating that, “Getting into the core courses, you will Division Three title at the have a set of courses that National Junior College the junior colleges is a matter of putting your foot you will have to get out of Athletics Association the way. After that, you in the door.”

Championships, three Cato, who was an active select the courses that you weeks ago. want to do majors… you participant in the 1990s According to Harry: (then) transfer from a US collegiate programme “We have to start junior college to a fourat the Missouri Valley somewhere… If we don’t College, stated: “You want year college to do the get those guys out, they other two years to get the athletes into a will stay here and die a system where you can get programme,” Cato natural death as athletes.” reasoned. the best out of them, and “What do we want to “Some four-year going to a junior college is hear that he/she was a colleges are similar to a step towards that”. good athlete and nothing He added that the four- junior colleges… facilities was done for him/her to year colleges recruit from may be better, which are get out? … It is better for the same cases with some them to be out there and the junior colleges. secondary schools here in develop from there and go “I went to a four-year St Vincent and the college and we had on,” Harry posited.

Grenadines,” Cato added. persons coming from

Ollivierre turns down offer to return to Jamaica MICHAEL OLLIVIERRE, renowned track and field coach, has re-impressed his commitment to his homeland — St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ollivierre’s display of patriotism came during a recent visit (May 26 — 30) to Jamaica, where he had travelled to be bestowed with a Special Honour by the St. Elizabeth Technical High School (SETHS).

“I have been offered an opportunity to return to Jamaica but I’m not prepared to leave SVG at this time,” Ollivierre told THE VINCENTIAN on his return from Jamaica.

“Instead,” he said, “I am in discussion with the School (SETHS) and they are going to assist me with ONE athlete locally,” he added.

In addition, Ollivierre intimated, “I am in the process of finalizing arrangements to have athletes from SVG enroll as students at the GC Foster Sports College in Jamaica, to further their athletics career and education. One athlete will begin school there in September 2017, and arrangements are

Michael Ollivierre (centre front) with other honorees and delegates in a post ceremony photo opp.

Left: Michael Ollivierre and his daughter at the Honouring Ceremony.

being made to have more enrolled in September 2018.”

As for the actual function, a usually calm Ollivierre admitted uncharacteristically, “I was totally overwhelmed, honored and very appreciative....especially to see my High School stars emerge as successful men

and women and giving back to their school.

In fact they (former stars) sponsor the school’s Penn Relay teams.”

Ollivierre expects to host a visit by some of his former cares in the not too distant future.

The Vincentian-born coach had served with remarkable accomplishment as Sports Director/Track and Field Coach,

at that institution from 1981 to 1997, and was hosted by the Institution’s Alumni, who was responsible for the honouring.

Among the Vincentian’s accomplishments while at SETHS are producing 10 Olympians, 35 Carifta Champions, and facilitating 91 Track/Field Scholarships in 13 years.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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24. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

National Football U-11, U-15 divisions kick off in keeping with projections of the sport’s world governing body FIFA. This addition to the national football programme comes on the heels of an Under 11 division introduced as part of the 2016 Inter- Community Volcanoes and Camdonia – Chelsea facing off in Vice-President of the League Championships. the U-11 Division last Saturday at the Campden SVGFFWayde Jackson First Vice President of the SVGFFPark Playing Field.

Otashie Spring outlined the reasoning indicated that the U-11 division, in supporting for including an U-11 division among Spring, stated that it was the clubs. one for the long shot.

Delano Benjamin of “It is more about a global trend…

Jackson, who has the Volcanoes was one Right now CONCACAF is looking to responsibility for technical of the stand outs get an Under- 13 competition off the during last ground, so we have to begin to prepare matters for the SVGFF, projected, “We have kids Saturday’s opening our players from very early….You now whom we can work matches in the Uhave to give them the platform in a with and put them in the 11 division. competitive environment by which proper structure, in the they can ply their trade proper academies, give at an early age,” Spring them the proper training explained. … The sky is the limit for Spring said that he them ...It is about having was satisfied with the fun, because everything response of the teams, noting, “If you had called you enjoy you do it often and for a long time”. something like this Fifteen units are Wayde Jackson – Third VP of the SVGFF (left) and fifteen years ago, you Otashie Spring- First VP of the SVGFF. may only have seen four competing in the Under11 Division and or so teams.

R Strikers, System Three, SV United, “ Clubs and teams are seventeen in the Under15.

Owia and Sparta FC, with Sharpes, clearly buying into the Seeking honours in Zone A of the Largo Height, Richmond Hill, Green development structure, Alexander Joachim continues to impress as he Under-11 Division are Richland Park Hill, Avenues and Volcanoes lodged in with an understanding refines and enhances his swimming skills in Pride and Joy, Awesome FC, Glenside Zone B. that this is a prerequisite Canada.

Ball Blazers, SV United, Owia and And stashed in Zone C are Parkside for the club licensing Sparta FC; while in Zone B are United Rollers, Layou, Camdonia- Chelsea, procedure … This North Leeward Predators and Je presents and provides the Strikers, System Three, K & R Strikers, Green Hill and Je Belle. In Belle. opportunity for clubs to Several matches were completed start and those who have Zone C are Volcanoes, Layou, Camdonia Chelsea and North Leeward during last Saturday’s opening as it in place to strengthen Predators. competition in both divisions began in it “, Spring stated.

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Contesting Zone A of the Under-15s earnest.

Meanwhile, Third swimmer Alexander Joachim emerged as the are Richland Park Pride and Joy, K & overall age group champion in the age 13 to 14 category, at the 2017 Thunderbolts May Grand game played. Triumph Prix Swimming Championships held at the United made 103 for 8 Canada Games Complex in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, from May 26th to 28th, 2017. from 19.3 overs. Andrew The Grand Prix featured in excess of 380 Glasgow 25. Imran Smith ALL-ROUNDER Desron Maloney bowling attack. swimmers representing 15 swim clubs from took 4 for 43 and Shawn Browne hit a blistering but stylish 120 to Team Rivals replied with 160 Canada and the USA. 4 for 33. help push Police Two to a for 7 when their innings closed.

This was Joachim’s second outing competing at Radcliffe Too replied with 212 convincing win over Team Rivals, Randel Williams top scored with a major Canadian swimming championships. from 31.1 overs after being 206 in a NLA Premier Division 48, Sylvan Spencer taking 2 for He competed in 8 individual races and as part for 5 at one stage of the game.

National Cricket Competition 34 and Desron Maloney 2 for 35. of a relay team in 2 additional events. He Denson Hoyte got 92 and match played at Sion Hill, last Asked to follow on, Team Rivals qualified for the Finals in all of his events, setting Anthoneil Browne 31, with weekend. were even more disappointing, 6 personal best times, breaking 3 SVG records Triumph’s Rohan Ash bagging 5 Team Rivals, who headed the managing a mere 128, thanks previously held by Nikolas Sylvester and Shane for 39 points table going into last primarily to Dillon Douglas’s Cadogan.

Games scheduled for this weekend round of matches, won innings of 70.

In total, he came away with 7 individual weekend in the Premier Division: the toss, but with a depleted A victory target of five runs medals and 2 relay medals, including 8 Gold Guardian General Saints versus team asked Police Two to bat was a formality.

Police Two medals and 1 Silver medal. Alexander’s Police Two at Arnos Vale 1; first. The lawmen took full gained maximum points. individual results were: FLOW Radcliffe against Victors advantage of the situation and Team Rivals in reply closed His gold medals came in the: 100 meter One at Sion Hill. rushed to 284 for 3 from 33.3 their first innings on 160 for 7 Butterfly in 1 minute, 4.97 seconds anew SVG In the NLA First Division overs, Maloney smashing 120 not from 41.2 overs. Randel Williams record; 200 meter Individual Medley in 2 Sunday League: Smashers face minutes, 27.58 seconds —a new SVG record; 100 out (including top scored with 48, Harley meter Breaststroke in i minute 16.36 seconds;; 6 sixes and 9 Skerritt 23. Desron Maloney took Victors 2 at Arnos Vale 2; Rudy’s 200 meter Butterfly in 2 minutes 25.48 seconds o fours) off 90 2 for 35 and Sylvan Browne 2 for Electrical Unique Warriors a new SVG record; 200 meter Breaststroke in 2 balls. Marcus 34. Team Rivals batting a second oppose Combine Youths at Stubbs; Edward Conliffe Belfongo minutes 45 seconds; 100 meter Freestyle in 59.98 John, 62, and time reached 128 for 7 from 32 oppose Glamorgan United at seconds - PB time; 200 meter Freestyle Relay; 200 Andrew overs when their innings ended.

Buccament. meter Medley Relay.

Thomas, 50, Dillon Douglas led the batting His silver medal came in the 50 meter also had a sip with 70, Asif Hooper 22.

I.B.A.ALLEN Freestyle in which he recorded a PB time of from a 27.52 seconds.

FIRST DIVISION depleted SVG National swim coach Kyle Dougan said, Rivals “Alex’s performances are a terrific example for Play was possible in only one FOR SALE the other young developing swimmers in SVG. He of four scheduled weekend Desron shows what hard work, dedication and discipline 1 large building lot at matches in the NLA First Maloney can achieve.”

Division Sunday League 50 Overs smashed 120 Richland Park.

Joachim is a multiple medallist at both the Radcliffe Too beat Triumph for Police CARIFTA Swim and Caribbean Championships.

434-5763 United by 109 runs in the only Two.

THE CAMPDEN PARK PLAYING field was last Saturday, the venue for the official kick off of the 2017 Under-11 and Under15 divisions of the National Football Club Championships, hosted by the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).

The Under-11 division Championships, the first of its kind nationally, has been introduced to the national football programme

Joachim making waves in the pool

Maloney stuns Rivals

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 25.

Sports

FIFA Under-20 THE FIFA Under 20 World Cup final will be determined June 11 in Korea. Who makes it through will be a great leap forward for those nations, as it signals the arrival or elevation to the top echelons of football.

Even before the top sixteen teams were decided, there appeared to be a changing of the guard. How else can one account for Venezuela’s advance to the quarter final?

And if things go according to the United States of America’s script, the quarter final clash will feature a Venezuela-USA fixture. The US will have to overcome a top sixteen hurdle in the form of the New Zealanders. If their youngsters are anything like the typical Kiwis, the USA can expect a dog fight.

World politics is different from sporting politics, and there is suggestion that the odds sway against the US when it comes to global football scenarios.

With the attention focused on Venezuela, one would hardly have expected that, given the current situation there, that that country could have produced something worthwhile.

But that’s the story, and the battle rages as forces hostile to the masses continue in a quest to reverse the gains of the ordinary Venezuelan citizen.

Uruguay and Portugal meet in Sunday’s other quart final match.

The action continues Monday with Zambia meeting the winner of yesterday’s top 16 clash between France and Italy.

It could have been an all European showdown for the semi-final berth if Zambia did not create something of an upset. They beat Germany 4: 3 to advance to the quarter final.

A German squad in any football competition is enough to quake an opposition, moreso one from Africa. But Zambia are proving that the gap is narrowing universally.

Zambia’s fourth goal came in extra time after the Germans had clawed their way back into contention with two goals in the dying stages of normal time, to force the match into extra time.

Germany first scored to open up a lively affair.

Zambia equalised and went two goals ahead before the German resurgence.

But it was Zambia who converted in extra time and did enough to keep the European powerhouse at bay.

The Zambian win would have put them at increased scrutiny as the France and Italian coaches go beyond the ordinary to find chinks in their armour.

The last quarter final spot will be between England and the winner of yesterday’s Senegal versus Mexico. No one will delve into speculations as to the outcome of matches before the whistle blows.

Whoever comes up against the English men, one can expect that there will be surprises.

England will consider themselves favourites, and their hunger for success will drive them to go the extra mile. But the stakes will be high for whoever their opponents are.

Mexico had a lukewarm build up but are known to be subtle opponents. Senegal have a tradition of quality football and, like Zambia, will be anxious to show how far African football is advancing.

Whoever wins the Under 20 World Cup, Venezuela will be able to look back with some satisfaction when they realise that in the midst of turmoil, their Under 20 footballers could have carried their FLAG SO FAR AND SO LOFTILY.

Dominica, SVG share Windwards Title

SVG AND HOST Dominica emerged as joint champions of the 2017 Windward Islands Senior Men’s Cricket Tournament, which concluded in Dominica last weekend.

Both countries finished on 21 points each, ahead of Grenada with 12 point and last year’s champions St Lucia at the bottom of the table on 6 points.

In the final round of matches, SVG needed to get full points against Grenada to win the tournament, but could only manage a first innings lead in their drawn game.

Dominica, on the other hand, beat St Lucia by 6 wickets.

The following is a summary of the SVG’s performance in the Tournament.

SVG senior cricket team.

SVG’s only outright win came when they beat St Lucia an innings and 2 runs in their first game.

Scores: SVG 354 from 75 overs Donwell Hector 128, Sunil Ambris 96 - Audy Alexander 5 for 91. St Lucia 219 from 80.5 overs - Audy Alexander 43, Keddy Lesporis 34, Johnson Charles hit 23, - Ray Jordan took 3 for 52 and Asif Hooper 4 for 48. St Lucia 133 from 39.4 overs - .Audy Alexander 38, Creig Emmanuel 34 - Kenneth Dember 5 for 35, Asif Hooper 2 SVG drew their second match against Dominica. Scores: Dominica 256 from 82.2 overs - .

Liam Sebastein 64, Alick Athanaze 45, Jerlanie Robinson 44 - Ray Jordan 3 for 42, Kenneth Dember 3 for 82.

Dominica senior cricket team.

SVG 103 in 40.5 overs - Hector 29.

Gidron Pope 21 - Mervin Mathew 4 for 24, Kavem Hodge 3 for 23, Liam Sebastein 2 for 25. SVG: 285 for 6 from 62.4 overs - Miles Bascombe 103, Gidron Pope 67, Sunil Ambris 80 - Tyrone Theophile 2 for 58.

Their third game against Grenada also ended in a draw.

Scores: Grenada 172 from 54.1 overs - . Ryan John 52, Roland Cato 45 - Kenneth Dember 5 for 35; SVG 271 from 53.1 overs - .

Sunil Ambris 114, Dember 38 Josh, Daniel McDonald 3 for 65, Rudolph Paul 2 for 34; Grenada 241 for 6 from 71 overs - Ryan John 60 - Kenneth Dember 3 for 54., Donwell Hector 2 for 36.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Ambris, Dember, Sebastien: Top W’wards performers SVG CAPTAIN Sunil Ambris Liam Sebastien – that topped the batting aggregate in wily off spinner – the just concluded Senior Men’s continues to dominate Cricket Tournament. his Windwards He was joined as a top colleagues. performer in the Tournament by his countryman off spinner Kenneth Sunil Ambris Alexander of St Lucia Kenneth Dember who, with Dember – top runfollowing with 13 Dominica’s captain off spinner impressed getterwickets.

Liam Sebastien, were the top with his continues to wicket-takers. consistency. show his Century’s makers Ambris totaled 298 in the class. tournament, with his highest There were five centuries against Grenada. single innings being 114, to record recorded in this year’s The other centuries came from an average of 74.5. The second Tournament, three of those being two Grenadians - Andre Fletcher highest runs scorer was Jamal accounted for by Vincentians. and Roland Cato. Fletcher stroked James of St Lucia with 230, with That trio included Donwell 103 against Dominica while Cato his highest being 83 and average Hector - 129 against St Lucia; scored 123 against St Lucia.

46. Stylish Windwards Volcanoes Miles Bascombe - 103 against batsman Tarryck Gabriel was the Dominica; and Sunil Ambris 114 I.B.A.ALLEN third top runs scorer with 203 with a high of 103 and an average of 33.83.

Sebastien and Dember JEREMY LAYNE stole the spotlight overs. Good support also came from each claimed 17 with his all-round ability in the Sealroy Williams with 45, Royon tournament wickets. second trial match for selection to the Williams 41 not out, Urnel Thomas, Sebastein’s 17 wickets included one 10-wicket national Under-19, which was played 26, and Randell Williams, 24. match haul and one fiveat the Arnos Vale Playing Field last The Delroy Douglas-led team wicket haul, and he Saturday. replied with 211. Jahial Walters toprecorded an average of Layne, leading one scored with 70, Zivron Walters 20 11.59 and an economy of the teams, led the and Daniel Sampson 27 not out. rate of 2.29. Dember batting with an Jeremy Layne followed up his good had one five-wicket haul entertaining 78 form with the bat, to return figures of among his 17 wickets, to before he retired, to 3 for 26. Jeremy Haywood, 3 for 20, close with an average of help his team reach also added good support with the ball.

14.12.

297 for 6 from 50 The third and final trial match is Dominican Tyrone scheduled for this Saturday from 9.30 Jeremy Layne led Theophile, known at the Arnos Vale playing field. from the front with a moreso for his batting, took 15 wickets in the half century and I.B.A.ALLEN Tournament, with Audy three wickets.

Layne stars in second U-17 trials

26. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 02, 2017. 27.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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30 YEARS FOR MURDERING YOUNG LADY analysis done by the United States Federal Bureau of ALI GIBSON, a 39-year-old man who used Investigations (FBI) a piece of rope to strangle a 21-year-old Laboratory in Quantico, woman 12 years ago, was sentenced to Virginia, which linked Ali Gibson (centre) will have almost three years deducted from 30 years in prison last Friday, May 26, Gibson to the crime. his prison sentence, for time served on remand for murder. following a sentencing hearing at the There were also the High Court. testimonies of two witnesses times when he was Duke was on her way home that night, A 12-member jury - 11 women and who said that around 8:30 involved in contraband and should have had the right to go one man - had on Wednesday, May p.m. on August 12, 2005, activities, including home in comfort.

24, found Gibson guilty of murdering they saw Gibson walking cellular phones.

Gibson’s sentences will take effect Diamond resident Lakeitha Duke, at about 25 feet behind Duke, Charles added that from the date of conviction, and the Diamond, between August 11 and 13, while on her way home. It Gibson was also time spent on remand is to be taken 2005, but Justice Kathy Ann Latchoo was the last time she was involved in fights, but into account. had adjourned the matter for seen alive. he was generally wellGibson had served only two years mitigation and sentencing.

Gibson was not charged behaved. and 11 months on remand on the Upon conviction, Crown Counsel with any sexual offence, but According to murder charge, as he had done two Karim Nelson, who prosecuted the because of the way the body Brenton Charles, Charles, Gibson served sentences consecutively, the last matter, had informed the Court that was discovered, and the fact Superintendent of in the prison kitchen, ending in 2014. the prosecution was seeking the death that Gibson’s semen was Prisons, was called by but from time to time, The first was an eight-year sentence penalty. That position was found in Duke’s vagina, the Court to give a he would offer his for robbery, which started in 2005 and subsequently withdrawn, with the established by DNA character assessment assistance in whatever ended 2011, while the other was a fiveCourt being notified of the withdrawal evidence, the prosecution of the convicted man. work was required, year sentence for aggravated burglary. by letter, prior to the sentencing drew the inference that Gibson was committed to stand trial without being asked. hearing.

Gibson sexually assaulted for Duke’s murder in 2007, but the Crown Counsel Duke, then killed her in order to trial was delayed after his attorney Nelson stressed, “We trust that this The crime silence her. then, Nicole Sylvester, filed a case underscores the principles of Duke’s nude body was discovered in constitutional motion on the grounds deterrent punishment and protection bushes on a pasture at Diamond on Sentencing hearing that Gibson’s right to a fair trial under of society”.

He pointed out that there the morning of August 13, 2005, with the constitution, would be infringed if were no mitigating factors, and a two-strand rope tightly bound At the sentencing hearing, Gibson’s he was not given the resources to his lamented the ‘horrific’ manner in around the neck. An autopsy showed attorney Euchrista Bruce-Lyle did not own DNA analysis. which the offence was executed. that she was strangled. request a social inquiry report on him, That matter was prolonged to an He noted that Gibson had previous The prosecution’s case relied but called Superintendent of Prisons eventual decision in 2014, with the convictions for offences involving entirely on circumstantial evidence as Brenton Charles to give evidence on motion being dismissed. violence against women, which was a there were no eyewitness accounts of Gibson’s conduct in prison.

This paved the way for the major aggravating factor in the case. the incident.

Supt. Charles said that during commencement of the murder trial on Justice Latchoo contended that the May 4 this year.

This evidence included DNA Gibson’s incarceration, there were crime was brutal. She explained that

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;

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