THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 04-12-20

FRIDAY, DECEMBER

04, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.49

Tri-tri Warning Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

SKN forgives LIAT Page 5

PM warns NDP Page 6

EC$1.50

ACE 2 relocates Page 14

Watchman thinking twice Page 28

PARLIAMENTARIANS SWORN IN Stories by DAYLE A SILVA

Orando Brewster, in making his maiden speech in the House of Assembly, recognized those who had served in the last parliament but have since retired.

ALL TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS of parliament - fifteen elected and seven appointed members - were on November 30 sworn in during the 1st Session of the 11th Parliament.

New members were sworn in on both sides.

Carlos James, Curtis King and Orando Brewster took their oaths as newly elected Parliamentary Representatives for the governing Unity Labour Party, along with Julian Francis, Keisal Peters, Rochard Ballah and Ashelle Morgan as Senators.

Morgan also took the oath of Deputy Speaker of the House.

There were only two new faces on the Opposition side — Fitzgerald Bramble, newly elected Parliamentary Representative for East Kingstown, and Shevern John, the New Democratic Party’s candidate for the North Windward Constituency in the 2020 General Elections as Senator.

“It is an honour and privilege to be standing in this House as a new member and to be the youngest,”

Fitzgerald Bramble committed to continue the good work of Arnhim Eustace, his predecessor as MP for East Kingstown.

Brewster said during the segment Representative for Central Leeward allocated for congratulatory remarks. paid tribute to those who served in the He congratulated all the elected members of Parliament, but singled Continued on Page 3. out those who were elected for the first time.

Photos Credit: S. Ollivierre/API The first-time Parliamentary

FORDE CONFIRMED

AS FIRST FEMALE SPEAKER

Rochelle Forde, the first female Speaker of the House, will be a testing undertaking, as have most Speakers before her.

Ashelle Morgan – Deputy Speaker of the House.

ATTORNEY AT LAW Rochelle Forde is this country new Speaker of the House of Assembly and the first female to fill that position.Forde, nominated by the Government side, garnered 14 votes to the Opposition’s nominee Kay Bacchus-Baptiste’s 8.

And with Senator Ashelle Morgan being installed as

Shevern John – the first woman of Garifuna lineage to sit in the SVG parliament - extended a hand of cooperation to the MP for North Windward.

Deputy Speaker after an uncontested vote, it is a double first for the country with females now occupying both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the first time.

Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 3.

News 3

Tri-tri warning

THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH, Wellness and the Environment is appealing to the general public not to purchase tri-tri from persons who have harvested such fish from the Colonarie river.

The warning was contained in a release made available by the Ministry.

The Ministry went further and reminded persons who have traditionally made use of the Colonarie River for tri-tri harvesting and other purposes, to desist from doing so.

Health officials advised that the Colonarie River continues to be contaminated by

materials from the Park Hill cemetery that are washed into it.

Needless to say, the warning also extends to consumption of the tri-tri from the contaminated Colonarie River. This, health officials emphasize, presents a significant public health risk.

Tri-tri, especially prepared as what is referred to as ‘tri-tri cakes’, is a delicacy apparently unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It forms such an indelible part of our culture, that Vincentians residing abroad are known to request their families to send them tri-tri (cakes).

Tri-tri is a sought after delicacy by Vincentians home and abroad.

Further, many households here are known to freeze the tritri for preparation in June-July (Carnival) and December (Christmas), when most nationals/relatives return home for the associated festivities.

Many persons here believe that tri-tri is abundant in our rivers during the months that end with ‘er’.

Parliamentarians sworn in

Opposition’s set in the House.

And newly elected Opposition Senator, Shevern John began Continued from Frontpage. her comments by congratulating Friday for his hard work and previous Parliament, including: dedication to the people. She his predecessor Sir Louis Straker, who he said was a good also thanked him for her Senatorial appointment. friend, mentor, brother and “I am a proud Garifuna guide; Cecil Mc Kie and former woman who stands here today, Leader of the Opposition and the first Garifuna woman from former Parliamentary North Windward to serve the Representative for East people of North Windward and Kingstown Arnhim Eustace. by extension the people of St Bramble also used the Vincent and the Grenadines,” occasion to congratulate all the John said. other Members of Parliament.

She thanked her colleagues “This is my first time serving saying that she looked forward in the Parliament, so I look to working along with them, and forward to the challenges and to carrying out her duties to the look forward to working with best of her ability. everyone in the House to She also congratulated her overcome those challenges as we political opponent in the 2020 work to make the country a General Elections, Montgomery better place,” he said.

He thanked his colleagues and Daniel on his appointment as the Deputy Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition Dr saying that although they were Godwin Friday for the political rivals, they were not motivation and guidance he enemies and extended a hand of received during the campaign. co-operation in anticipation of Bramble also paid brief tribute to Eustace saying that he them working together to serve the people, whose cause they are will be guided by the example committed to advance. which the former Leader of the

The Colonarie River is quite inviting but recently persons have been avoiding.

Forde confirmed as first female Speaker

nation, fails to follow its own rules?” she quipped.

Continued from Frontpage.

“I am humbled by your “Thankfully, I comfortably actions that my name be rest in the confidence and In congratulating both etched in the historical ability of you the members females, PM Gonsalves said archives as the first female securing the knowledge that of Forde, Speaker of the House of such an irony will not “You have grown into a Assembly in St Vincent and disturb this august body,” more settled maturity with the Grenadines,” she went on Forde said, and she urged greater wisdom and sure to say.

Members not to resurrect the many years of practising law And while she noted that old stereotypical myth which despite your young age of 44, it was indeed a time of equates a particular gender that you will apply your celebration, she posited that with weakness. heart to wisdom… that you it was of greater importance And towards setting the will serve well.” to have an exemplary tone of what she anticipates, Morgan, the he noted, had Parliament in the way it Forde told the House that in some training in state conducts its affairs. agreement with Prime administration during her “In great part, our Minister and the Leader of stint on the Tenders Board Parliament has performed the Opposition, she will and from that, she would creditably, however, in some convene a private meeting have some understanding of instances the journey ahead with sitting how government worked. still remains a long one,” she parliamentarians and staff The Leader of the told the House, and stated only, on December 17, Opposition said that he was that she was “looking forward during which new members looking forward to working to healthy, constructive, will be familiarised with and with the newly elected lively debates, fused with returning members Speaker. moments of levity.” refreshed about the Standing “We are in a Parliament, She cautioned members Orders of the House. which is a place for us to be that the business of the THE VINCENTIAN talking, and so debates ought House will be conducted congratulates Ms. Forde on to be allowed to represent within the confines of the her elevation to the fully the people on whose Standing Orders of prestigious but challenging behalf we have been sent Parliament and decency. position of Speaker of the here,” Friday said.

“What a distasteful irony House, and wishes her an In her response, Forde it would be if Parliament, the unfettered and successful thanked all who elected her. law-making body of our tenure.

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

No Christmas behind bars July 7, a party of officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) were conducting stop and search duties at Richmond, when they RANDOLF WILLIAMS, 41-yearsignaled a white Toyota Corolla which was old father of one, will not be travelling towards Chateaubelair, to stop. spending Christmas behind The driver complied. bars for marijuana possession.

The men were asked whether they had The Lowmans Leeward anything to declare, and they all said no. man was on Tuesday fined A search was conducted on their persons, $9,900 forthwith or ten but nothing illegal was found. The vehicle months in prison for was then searched, and two sacks possession of 14,982 grams containing packages of marijuana were of marijuana with intent to found. supply. He paid the fine When cautioned, the men said nothing. immediately, and left the In mitigation, Williams’ lawyer Grant Court.

Connell asked Chief Magistrate Rechanne Williams was charged Browne to “impose a small fine in the spirit jointly with Randolf Samuel, of Christmas.” also of Lowmans Leeward, Connell said his client cooperated with and Atiba Jones of Union the police, and was remorseful. He admitted Island. that Williams had a previous conviction, All three men had but said it was not of a similar nature.

Attorney Grant Connell pleaded not guilty to the continues to plug away at the According to the lawyer, Williams was charge during a previous anomalies in the law as it not a marijuana user, nor does he sell the appearance at the Serious relates to marijuana herb.

Offences Court.

Connell said that according to his However, on their return possession. instructions, a friend had given Williams to that Court on Tuesday, Williams took the rap, pleading guilty to the charge. the sacks to drop off at Chateaubelair.

“Once there is sunshine, there will be ganja, and The others maintained their innocence, and the those who want to fight it down, it will even grow on prosecution withdrew the charge against them. their graves,” Connell mused.

In presenting the facts, Court Clerk Corporal Atnel Ash told the Court that around 1:30 p.m. on Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Adult male jailed for raping child A MAN, who professed to be a born-again Christian, was yesterday (Thursday) sentenced to 14 years, 11 months and 19 days in prison, for having sex with an 8year-old girl.

Justice Brian Cottle handed down the penalty at the High Court Criminal Assizes. A ninemember jury had on November 23 found

Kawanie Williams, 26, of Green Hill, guilty of having unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13.

Sentencing was adjourned.

The accused, who was 19 at the time, had seized the opportunity to force himself on the 8year-old in November 2013, when the victim had gone to the home of

the accused to have his sister help her with her school lessons.

His sister went to a bedroom to lie down and when the accused arrive home he met the child in the living room watching television. He pulled her into another bedroom and had sex with her.

When he was finished, he told her to return to living room and he left.

The accused was represented by Attorney Stephen Williams who told the Court that his client was a Christian and attended Tabernacle Church at Green Hill.

The lawyer acknowledged that the ages of the victim and the accused constituted an aggravating factor in this case. He also noted

that the matter had gone through a full trial.

He highlighted the fact that his client had no previous convictions, and was remorseful of his action.

He suggested that a 10-year sentence would be appropriate in keeping with the case law.

But Justice Cottle contended that there were sentencing guidelines he would have to follow in arriving at a sentence.

The Judge then proceeded to do the necessary calculations, as he weighed the mitigating and aggravating factors.

The sentence took effect from yesterday.

Anomalies in the law Connell said that those who once scorned and scorned persons who come before the Court on marijuana charges, are today benefitting from what is referred to as Medical Marijuana but he added, “It is one and the same herb.”

As he has repeatedly done in the past, Connell again took a swipe at the Drug Act. “The Law as it is, is harsh and unconscionable,” he echoed.

He noted that marijuana carried the same penalty as the wretched drug cocaine.

The lawyer also contended that firearms and ammunition are designed to kill, yet marijuana possession carries the same penalty as firearm and possession of ammunition.

Connell further pointed that the marijuana trade has clothed, fed and educated many on the North Leeward end of the country.

According to Connell, it is usually the poor who are brought before the Court on marijuana charges, and even if there are cases in which a rich man is charged, they do not end up in jail because they are able to pay whatever financial penalty is imposed.

“Impose a small fine in the spirit of Christmas.

He is a good man, look at his face,” the lawyer pleaded.

In handing down the penalty, the Chief Magistrate applied the sentencing guidelines including a guilty plea at the first available opportunity. He was still granted the one-third discount on his sentence and she weighed the mitigating and aggravating factors.

Accused bank burglars granted bail TWO MEN who were remanded after being charged with a recent burglary at the First St. Vincent Bank, have been granted bail.

Soloman Laborde and Jason Williams, both of Long Wall, were each granted $25,000 bail with one surety when they returned to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Friday, November 27.

The two are jointly charged with entering the First St. Vincent Bank between November 14 and 15, 2020 and stealing $37,000 in cash. They are also jointly charged with damaging a window pane of the Bank, valued $900.

When the men initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on November 20, Prosecutor Renrick Cato objected to bail on the grounds that only $8,000 of the stolen cash were recovered, and if the men were granted bail, they may impede the investigations.

As a result, Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett denied bail at that stage, and the men were remanded for one week pending bail review.

However, on their return to Court on November 27, Prosecutor Cato waivered his objections, and the Court granted bail with reporting conditions.

They were also ordered to surrender their travel documents, and stop notices will be placed at all ports of exit and entry.

To leave the state, they will have to seek the Court’s permission.

The matter has been adjourned to February 24 for trial.

They have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the men were not released, as they were unable to find a surety.

V LIAT resumes limited commercial schedule

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 5.

Regional

LIAT, the once proclaimed regional airline, is currently under administration during which it is expected to be restructured. This follows on prompting by the government of Antigua and Barbuda to have it reorganized, given its dire financial situation.

But in the midst of this ongoing restructuring process, LIAT, as it remains in name since it was never

liquidated as such, resumed a commercial schedule, with flights to a limited number of destinations, last Monday, Nov. 30.

According to a CMC report, the Antigua-based LIAT said ‘it will operate flights five days a week to seven destinations across its network’.

The seven destinations are: Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St.

St. Kitts-Nevis forgives LIATÊs debt response to a request by the administrator, who has been in ongoing discussions with LIAT’s creditors to forgive or adjust the airline’s debts.

Dr, Harris made the announcement during the monthly press conference hosted by the National Emergency Management Authority on Monday, and posited that the decision to forgive the airline’s debt reaffirms the Federation’s (St. Kitts and Nevis) commitment to regional integration and regional travel.

“We accept that LIAT is the largest carrier supporting intraregional travel and without LIAT there is a Dr. Timothy Harris, Prime Minister of major void that has a significant impact on the ease of movement of St. Kitts-Nevis, views his country debt forgiveness to LIAT as a step in citizens, residents, and visitors to the region,” local media reported PM the direction of ensuring ease of Harris as saying. intra-regional air travel. (Photo Mindful of the challenges that the Credit: Pride News Magazine) airline has faced, the Prime Minister said the government believes its Cash-strapped LIAT, which is position is in the best interest of the currently in court-appointed people of St. Kitts and Nevis and the administration, has got some much wider region. needed reprieve as work continues St. Kitts and Nevis’ forgiveness towards a proposal for a re-organised comes post the St. Vincent and the structure and operation plan for the Grenadines announcement, by its airline.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, That reprieve came from St. Kitts and Nevis, whose Prime Minister, Dr. that it was prepared to write off $14 million owing to it by LIAT. Timothy Harris, announced on Barbados had, up to Monday that his government had September/October, not given any decided to forgive a $11 million debt indication as per how it might

by LIAT. respond to the request to write off Prime Minister Harris, in announcing the debt forgiveness, said LIAT’s debt owing to it. that the decision so to do was in (Sources: SKNO, LOOP News)

LIAT is back in the sky but not yet out of the woods. (Photo Credit: SKNO.com) Lucia, St. Kitts, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Other destinations are expected to be added to the schedule for December 2020.

The first resumed flight left Antigua for Barbados at 9 a.m. (local time) on Monday, and Antigua’s Foreign Affairs Minister EP Chet Greene said the resumption of flights “is more than an Antigua success, but a regional success.”

Green added, “…. there is no region in the world that operates without a regional carrier and so the sub-region of the OECS (Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) in particular, is counting on LIAT for its services and to have LIAT back in the skies at this time augurs well for the development of the sub-region…and it portrays us as a modern developing society,” CMC reported him saying to Antigua’s Observer Radio.

All of this comes subsequent to an earlier pronouncement by Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who said that his

administration was prepared to “collapse” the regional airline, if it did not emerge as a “new and lean,” entity, as part of the re-organisational plans.

But the Court appointed Administrator, Cleveland Seaforth, warned that going forward, the Antigua and Barbuda government will have to decide who it will partner with to ensure the viability of the airline, since there are very few if any Caribbean territories lining up to invest in a re-organised LIAT. LIAT’s former major shareholders were the governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Prior to its collapse, LIAT, which owes creditors an estimated EC$100 million and its employees an estimated EC$80 million in severance payments, served 21 destinations, operating an average of 112 daily flights, amounting to a combination of profitable and uneconomic routes. (Source: CMC/BT)

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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

PM warns opposition

his government.

“I hear some of them talking — what they will do and what they wouldn’t do. I just want to tell them, the man PM Dr. Ralph who is talking here, I am Gonsalves has made it clear how he intends to the master of the streets.

And they must try and respond to any protest test me,” Dr. Gonsalves action by the NDP. said on a recent episode of the Face to Face PRIME MINISTER Dr Ralph programme aired on Gonsalves has issued a state-owned NBC Radio. clear warning to the Dr Gonsalves’ warning opposition New comes as a direct Democratic Party: he will response to the NDP’s crush any protest action ongoing claims that they might be considering because they won the as measures to pressure

popular vote in the Nov. 5 general elections, they are the people’s choice.

Acknowledging that he will be criticized for his ‘up front comments’, Dr Gonsalves countered with, “ I speak my mind, and one thing I can tell you: I am sworn to uphold and defend the constitution and laws of St Vincent and the Grenadines. I will do it legally and I will do it politically.”

He added, “I ain’t threatening nobody, because as I say it is not

a threat. I am just upholding my oath. And I am doing what I consider to be part of my life work - to defend the sovereignty and independence of this country.”

He vowed not to allow what he referred to as “any right wing opportunist, an infantile leftist or any backward elements of the petit bourgeoisie” to threaten the independence, sovereignty and national interest of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Road repairs roll on Photo Credit: BRAGSA THE ROADS, BUILDINGS and General Services Authority (BRAGSA) continued postelections with its road repair/construction programme.

A new concrete road was constructed in Quarry, Layou, Central Leeward.

Left: The first phase of the new road in Villa Flat.

The project saw the

The new road in Quarry, Layou.

construction of a 680-foot long roadway, along with a 110 feet long Curb wall. In addition, 100 feet of Curb and Slipper drains were constructed.

All taken, the project was carried out at a cost of $179, 000 and completed over a fivemonth period.

The Villa Flat area in East St. George was also ‘gifted with a new concrete road, the first phase of which involved the construction of 550 feet of road, along with 26 feet of Slipper and Swale drains.

In addition, repairs were done on 135 feet of an existing Box drain.

The second phase, which is ongoing, will see the construction of 200 feet of concrete road, along with Slipper, Swale and Box drains.

The project is scheduled to be completed this month.

(Source: BRAGSA)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 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

FreedomWhat it means WE’VE ALL HEARD the word freedom used countless times as it was recently by a person clad in all red, who admonished the editor for abusing his freedom to write ‘crap’, week in, week out.

Needless to say, it was not the first time that a functionary of the ‘red party’ had either not understood what the editor was writing about, or reacted in a simpleton manner because he was embarrassed by the fact that there are some among us who continue to think for ourselves, and are not reliant on others to provide what is to be said and how.

But to this thing called freedom. What does freedom really mean?

Freedom means the ability to think, speak, worship, work, and make decisions for yourself with minimal–if any– government interference.

A young man is prone to feeling left out if he doesn’t vote in a certain way. That person has all but forgotten, if he ever knew, that freedom is all about saying what you want to; believing what you choose to and voting for who and what you think is best, whether others agree or disagree with you.

Yes, sometimes it feels like freedom is losing the battle; like freedom is being threatened. Are there not persons among us who are afraid to speak freely out of fear of being shouted down for their opinions, out of fear of losing a contract, out of fear of losing a job, a privilege?

And the media, social media, politicians and so called opinion makers are fingered for making it look like the country is trending toward a departure from freedom. But the fight for freedom is real and ongoing.

There are many who hold fast to the position that freedom is on the move. We are not to be discouraged to defend and promote our freedom, given to us by the founders and which many have fought hard to preserve.

Admittedly, everyone is born to live free but not everyone has the courage to create that freedom in their life. It should follow that since we are born free then freedom should not be something to fight for but unfortunately, life tends to tie people up in knots and make them believe it is impossible to get the freedom they crave.

So, yes, if you are going to be free, you are going to have to fight to get it back or those like the red party gentleman referenced will rule the roost.

The fight to preserve our freedom is more than one opposed to what is openly repressive or oppressive, and there is much of both. What we must all guard against is rather more subtle and creeping; like lapsing into habits of thought where we acquiesce — where it becomes easier to think of the way things are as against the way things ought to be.

We need to guard against turning “freedom” into a weapon of arrogance, a cultural weapon to be wielded against some lesser culture, rather than a tool that is sharpened through speaking the truth and against power misused and abused.

When freedom is seen as a “thing” — a value to be worshipped rather than as a practice — it degenerates into something that shores up power and the status quo, and as such becomes a toothless idea.

‘What is good for the goose is good for the gander’. Freedom is not cheap, it is not something to be bought and sold to be used by one group to subvert the rights of others.

Undermining the rights of any one group to serve the needs of another is wrong. Freedom must be enjoyed by all otherwise it doesn’t exist.

Political truth is corrupted (First published in THE VINCENTIAN OF Friday 19th February 2016) HAVE WE EVER, as we continue on the path of building what some call a genuine Caribbean Civilization, stopped to ponder on the relationship between political truth and its value in the current political milieu?

Maybe this is too heavy a dose of medicine to even consider and it would be easier to simply conclude, and correctly so, that any such reflection would be a laborious undertaking with which we can do without.

But that, as said, is the easy way out and in conceding defeat, before we even begin, is to give in to the political order of the day with which so many are at variance.

Who among us will agree that there is a contradiction between what we accept as morality and the action of politicians? Then again, perhaps we are unable to form an opinion on this score because the relationship between the two has never been made clear to us, or if it has, it has not been in concrete terms.

Yet we abound with commentary, with all its different points of departure, some realising, others not, that all of the ‘talk’ comes together to comprise a debate about the objectivity of truth.

Because, if we assume that we speak honestly about our politics, we have got to accept truth as an objective reality in the people’s lives.

Sadly, this has become corrupted over time, given the narrow agendas that drive politicians and their organizations; and is borne out when our ‘discussions’ about and around national interests, public welfare, freedom of citizens, equal rights, etc. are continually abused by political handshakes.

In accepting same, we abrogate our say in the decision-making process, our say in important socio-cultural and political events and decisions to the political elites, who, it appears from what we have experienced and are experiencing, are motivated for their own selfish interests.

It seems that we have all but ignored the adage that politics cannot be separated without considering its own moral structures, for the picture today of our reality is that our moral structures of which we speak so much, have been devalued to nought, and no longer have any justification for our case.

In our political status-quo, the truth has for too long been hidden (from us), and instead of being in control of our own destiny, we stumble on lies, accept them as we go down, and ignore the facts of reality, allowing politicians to do whatever they believe and

whatever they want.

Decisions ambiguously are taken in accordance with the need of politicians to create delusions that they are impeccable policy makers, and in the process political theories and facts, concepts, and practices fail, because we have allowed the politicians to fail us.

So we step back and pessimistically face the current political reality, stuck with hidden values and perceptions, and we become more skeptical with each passing day.

We see all the evidence but because there is no truth in our objective reality — because we don’t see the disguised modern dictatorships, some say rigged polls, political manipulation of the media authorities — we don’t see that our reality serves the political elites first.

Generation after generation of humankind has grappled with the question: How can we reconcile politics and morality? We are no different. But instead of continuing to grapple with the age old question, so as to maintain our place in the decision-making process, we sadly resign ourselves to being led.

Even as we lay subservient to the political elite, we dream of political utopias and utopian governments, and allow those who promise to fulfil our dreams to continue without moral questions.

It is time that we come to a realization that we do not need a hope-monger preaching for us, or those who hunt for public office with their pompous street speeches, or business magnates who serve political marginalization of morality, or political demagogues of tycoons, religious leaders and orators.

We need the bare truth served by policy makers steeped in intelligent and moral capabilities, and a proper sense of morality and transparency in the policy making process.

Ironically, the dirty hands of democracy often win a misguided mass moral consciousness because its justice is played out in a (this) dark age. Yet, we continue to pretend that the game is being properly played, and we clap along for the players who misguide all the moves.

Are we still standing? Are we prepared to demand the truth?

Until such time as genuine moral structures determine our political culture, we are doomed to the unrealistic, prejudiced truth of a political elite.

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lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 9.

Views

Don’t forget HIV/AIDS

MR. EDITOR, this is just a reminder for our people that there is another scourge in our society that we must not allow this COVID19 business or dengue fever to block out from our concern. I am speaking about HIV/AIDS. Not because Covid19 and dengue fever are in the limelight that that means HIV/AIDS has disappeared. There are still people suffering from AIDS here and while I am not aware of the figure, I am certain there have been some new cases of HIV/AIDS for the year.

These people need our support and the support of the health system. We must not allow other needs as important as they are — to distract us from the HIV/AIDS reality.

Joan, Kingstown

I am impressed but concerned ARRIVING in St. Vincent on Saturday 28th November, I was very impressed with the Covid-19 protocol at the AIA. The system to get over 100 passengers off the plane and through the PCS testing in less than hour was indeed remarkable, especially after spending four hours and a half earlier this week to get my pre-arrival Covid-19 test. The team of medical professionals doing the testing was careful, professional and considerate. And the idea of making the entry forms available online certainly

helped.

I am, however, concerned about the people outside the designated Covid-19 quarantine zone, who seem not to be taking the virus seriously.

And then there are concerns for us to think about as we move through the next phases of the pandemic. As the rest of the world experience their second and third waves of the virus, are we ready?

Most of them are moving to a more intense testing protocol to avoid long

lockdowns, and to minimize quarantining those who were simply exposed to someone with symptoms. So far, we have been blessed with little to no community spreading of the virus. I fear that we could be lulling ourselves into a false sense of security.

As the vaccine becomes available and more acceptable, we will see the reopening of the world’s economy. For us, finding the right balance between rebuilding the economy and protecting the health of the people

CIVIL SERVANTS play a very important role in any country. They can make or break governments. With this in mind, it is important that they do their work faithfully and also that they be rewarded accordingly.

Amongst the many

civil servants are the OFFICE ATTENDANTS, they render a very important service in ensuring communications are passed to and from several ministries and departments. You have to put yourself in their shoes to realize the risk

they have to encounter in doing their work. In sun and rain they endure, carrying out their duties at the risk of exposing themselves to health problems.

They ought to be commended for their dedication and hard work. Unfortunately, they are the lowest grade in the salary scale. They are at Grade M and are not pensionable, save and except what they will get from the NIS. They deserve better!

Imagine working for twenty years and beyond serving their country, enduring the risk of health problems, and at the end of the day, no pension to take care of them in their old age.

As the year draws closer to the end and we move towards presenting new Budgetary Estimates, it is important that serious attention be given to these workers. After all, they have to survive and I am certain we would want them to be in a position to live comfortably.

So while preparation is made for the estimates, please take into consideration these faithful and hardworking people to ensure that they are made pensionable. It is unfair that some of the civil servants are pensionable, while a few others are not because they are at the lower end of the scale. Let’s have a heart.

Horatio

Those Office Attendants Beseeching P.R. Campbell

Students left unattended?

SHOULD PUPILS be left unattended at school? Principals and their Deputies are required to be at school at least ½ hour before the school day begins.

Staff members are to arrive ¼ hour before the start of the school day.

Teachers are responsible for taking all classes to

will not be easy. As we try to get ready for this phase we must ask ourselves, are we ready to do the amount of testing needed? Are we ready to vaccinate a nation? We must be, because as the virus becomes less of a concern in Europe and North America, like smallpox and other pandemics of the past, that is when we will be the most vulnerable.

The time to begin the planning is now.

which they are assigned.

If teachers are unable to attend to their classes perhaps due to absence, adequate provision needs to be made for these classes. Apparently, there is no adequate system for the coverage of classes when teachers are absent. Some school systems engage

substitute teachers to cover classes. Perhaps absenteeism would be reduced if adequate attendance records are kept and those absent cover the cost of substitution.

Children need supervision while they are on the school compound. No child should be on the school compound if there is no adult supervision.

Whether it is before, during, after school or during the lunch hour, they should be monitored.

First and foremost, students must be engaged in their academic pursuits; they should learn a skill at school; they should keep their classroom and school compound clean and orderly. Cooperating and helping one another in the learning process should be valued. School should be an enabling environment in the learning process and every child should benefit.

Anthony Stewart, PhD

Kennard King

P.R. CAMPBELL does not have the authority to tell us when it is time for Dr. Friday to lead this Land of the Blessed. This is in God’s hands. None of us knows. It might be quicker than we expect.

P.R. does not only sound like a paid lawyer, he is. No wonder Jesus said: ‘Woe be unto you, lawyers, for you have taken away the key to knowledge’ (Lk. 11:52); ‘You have shut up the Kingdom of Heaven against men (Mt.23:13); * Is govern“..nothing covered that ment going to shall not be revealed, ban the sale of neither hid that shall lobster to St. Lucian not ne known” (Lk.12:2). buyers in order to When David was make sure Seafood get the amount they called by men to be their want? king, God did not tell * Is it true that the him he was too young conch population is and inexperienced. He decreasing? became king by * How come the destroying the world ULP could talk boss of his day with a about how they small stone. have so many young What is covered up (in people in cabinet accordance with the and parliament and teachings of Jesus) will all the community have to come to light in and youth groups the Parliament, this have disappeared? time around. The * Are there no people’s voice shall be ‘brave’ young people heard in parliament. around who would This is a time of a new take up the awakening. responsibility to Mr. Editor, I want to revive the National draw Pointer Campbell’s Youth Council, a attention to Ezekiel 34 true independent voice of the youth in and ask that he explain SVG and not some it to the world. He can political party do this on his very mouthpiece? informative Law and * The amount of You programme. If he ‘free’ money we got does this, then we will to help us through be able to decide this COVID crisis? whether he is a Man of * If the ULP would God or a man that consider speaks on behalf of the reintroducing traffic hidden enemy. lights especially in Kingstown?

Christian Democrat

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Continued commitment to women and youth empowerment

Introduction THE FIRST SESSION of the new Parliament was convened on Monday 30th November, 2020 and was in many ways a proud moment for Vincentians and a reinforcement for the supporters of the Unity Labour Party, that SVG only has one progressive party. This was truly a history making Parliament, as a number of “first” can now be associated with this session, and the majority (governing) party that is responsible for those historic events. The new Parliament displays in unambiguous terms, the commitment of the ULP to the continued development and empowerment of our nation’s youth and women, by this government that has set the bar very high regarding the provision of equal opportunities for all genders and ages to excel and lead.

The record of this ULP is there and can withstand scrutiny, from the first female Head of State in H.E Dame Susan Dougan, (coincidentally also the first female Cabinet Secretary), to the first female Attorney General Mrs. Judith Jones-Morgan, and the first female Director of Public Prosecution Ms. Sejilla Mc Dowall. The number of senior public service positions occupied by females are too numerous to mention in this article, but the point would at least be made that of the eleven Permanent Secretaries in the Public Service, more than half of them, exactly seven, are women.

During the 2020 elections, the ULP offered two excellent female candidates to the electorate, and although it is regrettable that they weren’t returned, we stand committed to presenting candidates of high quality to the electorate, including females.

Director of Trade and three (3) of this country’s five (5) Ambassadors are females.

Faith in our Youth

Beyond the obvious and much talk about the prominence of females in the House of Assembly, there is the other less talked about, but just as significant promotion of youth by the ULP in Cabinet and Parliament.

There was much discussion during the election campaign of the presence of youth as candidates for the ULP, with Luke Browne and Orando Brewster being the youngest. With the election now over, and the youthful Brewster and Carlos James elected as first time Members of Parliament, the complement of youthful MPs on the ULP ticket has expanded beyond Comrades Camillo and Saboto. All four youthful MPs have been given very significant portfolios in the new cabinet and have hit the ground running in their various ministries.

Apart from the elected MPs, both Senators Keisal Peters and Rochard Ballah, in their early to mid-30s, have been appointed Junior Minister and Parliamentary Secretary respectively in the Office of the Prime Minister.

Senator Peters, takes up the very important position of Junior Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Senator Ballah, as Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Information.

This ULP government trusts the Gender equality and SVG Parliament youth and displays this confidence through various appointments in very The sitting of the new session of positions throughout the public parliament broke a number of barriers senior service and other parts of government. and undoubtedly sets a positive the role this country’s foreign precedent for the composition of future With policy has played, and continues to parliaments in SVG. The election of play in national development and with barrister Ms. Rochelle Forde, to the our global reputation very high, position of Speaker of the House of especially as we currently serve as a Assembly, marks the first time a non-permanent member of the United female has been elected to this post.

Nations Security Council, there can be Ms. Forde brings experience to the no denying that Senator Peters’ position, having served as Senator in appointment, as an example, speaks to the House and Deputy Speaker faith and trust in our youth. Both previously. She also brings with her a the Senators Peters and Ballah will work strong sense of leadership and good with their other youthful colleagues in judgement as was visible during the Ceasar, Gonsalves, James brief sitting of the House. The election Ministers Brewster, in representing the of Senator Ashelle Morgan unopposed and youth interests in this country, to the position of Deputy Speaker of ensuring that there is fair the House of Assembly completed representation of the youth what is now the first ever situation perspective in policy creation. We wish where both the Speaker and the them the best.

Deputy Speaker are females. Ms. Morgan, a 34-year-old barrister at law Conclusion is not the first female Deputy Speaker, however she does form part of the This ULP can stand proudly on its trend-setting team elected to positions record of woman and youth of Speaker and Deputy Speaker, empowerment, as this government something that has never occurred goes beyond fancy clichés and popular before in all of CARICOM. causes to put in place concrete The appointments of senators, and measures that show its commitment to nominations and subsequent election both women and youth. The examples of females by the ULP in the existed before 2020, but the case has Parliament indicates the Party’s no doubt been made even stronger intention to continue its progressive with the appointments in Cabinet and policy of ensuring that Vincentian the recent elections of Speaker and women soar like eagles. In all, the Deputy Speaker in Parliament. The ULP nominated, and/or caused to be Unity Labour Party congratulates all elected in the House, three (3) and appointment Members of excellent Vincentian women in various elected Parliament, wish them all the positions, going beyond mere rhetoric, best as they and fulfil their appointments. but instead showing in real terms its If it is to be held true that actions commitment to gender equality. In speak louder than words, the actions case it’s taken for granted, Senator of the ULP government over the last Peters, now heads a Ministry of 20 years speak of a firm commitment Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, to women and youth empowerment. where the Permanent Secretary,

NDP will persevere – Retreat is not an option THE FIRST SESSION of the Eleventh Parliament was officially opened on Monday 30th November. The elected members and senators of the New Democratic Party (NDP) were sworn in.

Supporters of the NDP were present to show support to their party.

Dr. Friday and his team are cognizant of the responsibility that has been given to them, and are committed to work assiduously to represent the majority of Vincentians and bring about the change for which most Vincentians yearn.

Sadly, the 2020 general elections did not bring about the change for which most Vincentians had voted.

That change has been deferred and the Unity Labour Party (ULP) has retained government by being declared winner of more seats than the NDP. Under our Constitution, the party with the most seats forms the government. However, it is a fundamental and treasured principle of democracy that a government that does not have the support of a majority of the people, lacks a mandate from the people to govern them. It lacks democratic legitimacy.

Most Vincentians are disappointed and frustrated with the outcome of the general elections and Dr. Friday has recognized it. He said, “I know the frustration and concerns that weigh heavily on our people following a difficult election with its inconclusive outcome. I am also keenly aware of the strength of our support, the deep yearning for change in our people. And I promise you, change will come. We must commit ourselves to that task for completing it, we will usher in a government that has earned the support of a majority of the people, and thereby set in place the essential foundation upon which our future prosperity and happiness depends.

“To succeed, this must be a collective effort. The NDP will be the vessel that carries that movement to its successful outcome. It is our duty and we are committed to continue providing constructive leadership that will guide our activism and lead us to a brighter future for all of our people.

“To our young people, I say a special thank you. Thanks for your support. I urge you to remain engaged in the political process. In the recent campaign, your voice was loud and strong, and your courage was inspiring. Now more than ever, your country needs you. Retreat is not an option. Become and remain part of the growing movement that is necessary to bring the change our country wants.

“As for me, I am not going anywhere. I love my country too much.

This is my life’s work and I am honored to do it. The more people I meet and share a smile with, engage in a conversation or activities with, the more that love grows.”

Most Vincentians want change because they are fed-up of the numerous broken promises by the ULP. They want change because of the high unemployment rate.

Unemployment is at an all-time high; 46% of our young people are unemployed and an overall unemployment rate of 25% before COVID- 19, worse than it was in 2001.

We have experienced an increase in violent crime, unprecedented in the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A record number of

business have closed; agricultural activity and exports have declined significantly; tourism has shown little or no improvement, and our economy is in the worst state since conquest and settlement.

Further, Budget deficits are the order of the day. The capital budget is stymied by the absence of counterpart funding for projects identified. The recurrent expenditure for health has been reduced, leading to serious deterioration in that sector, and less funding has been allocated to BRAGSA and the tourism sector. You will agree that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is in a crisis, economically and politically.

NDP celebrates Forty-Five The New Democratic Party (NDP) was founded by Sir James Mitchell. It was officially launched on 5th December, 1975. The main objectives of the NDP are: to raise the standard of living of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines through the development of the economic resources of the country, in a manner that provides equal opportunity for all; to ensure the highest standard of rectitude in public life, and to guarantee the maximum expression of democratic liberties by all citizens, and to lead in the building of a dynamic society.

In 1984, Vincentians voted the NDP into office and ended the victimization, oppression and corruption of the vindictive St. Vincent Labour Party.

With the objectives of the party, a clear vision, sound policies and astute leadership of the NDP, it governed St. Vincent and the Grenadines for seventeen years, having won general elections in 1984, 1989, 1994 and 1998; in 1989, it won all fifteen seats.

During the period 1984 to 2001, the economy was booming; there was an average economic growth of 5% annually. All the productive sectors contributed significantly to economic development. Agriculture played the dominant role, in particular the banana industry. In 1990, St. Vincent and the Grenadines earned $120 million, and in 1992, $112 million from bananas. Vincentians enjoyed an improved standard of living. A middle class developed and unemployment was at its lowest.

The flag ship of the NDP was its land reform programme; where lands were given to the landless. A number of estates were sub-divided and lands distributed in Rabbacca, Colonaire, San Souci, Mt. Wynne and Diamond, among other areas, to the poor and working class. There were also major development to the infrastructure of this country, such as the construction of feeder roads which assisted farmers tremendously. Vincentians showed great appreciation to the construction of the village roads which the Labour Party called ‘gouti tracks’, and there was a marked improvement to the housing stock. Vincentians were living comfortably under the NDP administration.

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The Hater and the Hated

“Fear of something is at the root of hate for others, and hate within will eventually destroy the hater.”– George Washington Carver (1860-1943) African American agricultural scientist and inventor. He was the most prominent black scientist of the 20th century.

COLOUR PREJUDICE was brought into focus throughout Donald Trump’s presidency. Many individuals around the world appear to have concluded that America’s forty-fifth president is racist and a supporter of white supremacist groups that operate in the United States of America. He has avoided condemning their racist actions and there have been instances where he has sought to excuse their anti-social behaviours that have been primarily directed at blacks. Many propose that he has sought to justify the behaviours of the haters such as the white supremacists, neo-Nazis, skinheads, and the Ku-Klux-Klan (KKK). In addition, America’s forty-fifth president appears to be unsympathetic to the families of those that have lost loved ones via hate crimes.

He seems to have lacked empathy for the individuals, the hated, who have been brutalised by the police and/or members of hate groups.

John Philip Jenkins, shares some useful insights in relation to white supremacy in an article appearing on Britannica.com. His description of white supremacy helps us to better appreciate the underlying belief systems that fuel the hatred of these unhappy citizens in an “enlightened” society. He describes white supremacy as follows: “White supremacy, beliefs and ideas purporting natural superiority of the lighter-skinned, or ‘white’, human races over other racial groups. In contemporary usage, the term white supremacist has been used to describe some groups espousing ultranationalist, racist, or fascist doctrines. White supremacist groups often have relied on violence to achieve their goals.”

Jenkins further noted that Donald J. Trump attracted significant support from white supremacists and so-called white nationalists when he entered the presidential campaign in 2016. It would seem as though many of the disenfranchised whites “lamented the alleged erosion of white political power and the decline of white culture in the face of non-white immigration and multiculturalism.” President Trump’s early attacks on immigrants, Muslims and other ethnic minorities allowed the world to get a glimpse of his dark prejudices. In addition, the level of support that he obtained throughout the United States of America gave the world an insight into the extent of the colour prejudice that still permeates the American society. It was sad to observe the number of haters … and the plight of the hated.

It is anticipated that America’s President-elect Joseph Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will continue to champion the need for diversity and tolerance throughout American society. They have commenced the process by communicating their commitment to the process as they communicate with the citizens of America. In addition, their selection of a diverse group of competent professionals to head various departments confirm their willingness to go beyond rhetoric and to take action.

This augers well for bridging the racial division that was quite evident during the last four years. But it will not be easy. Such societal and attitudinal changes take time. However, it is important to commence the process.

Biden and Harris have signalled to the world that they intend to retain their focus on championing positive social changes throughout and beyond America. Many view them as light within an American society that appears to have embraced so much darkness. Their administration will march to a different beat than the one their predecessors created and sustained.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (19291968) reminded us that, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” There is therefore good reason to hope for the hater and the hated in the United States of America. It is not beyond the American society to foster greater tolerance and togetherness during the coming administration and beyond.

While the thoughts expressed here have focused intently on the hater and the hated in the United States of America, it is also useful to consider where similar situations may exist in other societies and nations. Some European nations have also exhibited deep and dark hatred of non-nationals.

In some instances the prejudices and the hatreds may need to be unmasked and exorcised. Societies are considered much healthier when persons are not judged based on the colour of their skin, religion, gender, and so on. Relieving individuals and societies of hatred and prejudice will result in greater cohesion among citizens. Enlightened citizens have the privilege to dismantle and eradicate hatred wherever it exists.

This will benefit the hated as well as the hater. Coretta Scott King (19272006) reminds us that, “Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.”

Our leaders in society, business, and government have a tremendous responsibility and privilege to assist in influencing the attitudes and behaviours of their citizens. The more powerful and influential these leaders are the greater their influence, for good and for evil.

The discussions must continue in relation to how we can each play a role in creating and sustaining communities where all citizens feel accepted and appreciated. This is considered foundational to our plans to eradicate the debasing emotions that hatred generates. Everyone will not be converted to understand and appreciate the value of such an approach. In addition, we will not be naïve to assume that such changes in behaviour will take place immediately. Some individuals have been socialised to accept prejudice (in all of its forms) as a way of life. However, we acknowledge the challenge to continue the process of re-programming society to better understand and appreciate that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made. We may look “slightly different” as a result of skin pigmentation, hair texture, the shape and size of our noses, etc. but when all is said and done … we all have a right to be here. We therefore need not engage in utterances and activities that foster division and hatred. And we need to be proactive enough to intercept and condemn utterances and behaviours that reflect hatred whenever and wherever they emerge. Each of us, in our own way, must eradicate the social diseases that plague the hater and the hated.

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

Reflections on the meaning of silence “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter. There comes a time when silence is betrayal.” Dr Martin Luther King Jr. PLAIN TALK FOLLOWS with a disturbed heart the many utterings that come during and after elections. People lose their minds and say some of the wickedest things imaginable. Some of us may remember when our Prime Minister encouraged the development of rival supermarkets to challenge the hegemony of the Greaves and Bonadie supermarket chains. This call was greeted with wild cheers from a large section of the Gonsalves supporters. The Government even opened and operated a supermarket to prove its intent.

As our poet Shake Keane said, “Yo think is so the thing set?” The supermarket did not last as long as ‘Miss Janie fire’.

When PM Gonsalves uttered those disturbing remarks, opposition leaders and supporters were highly incensed.

They claimed that the PM’s comments were irresponsible. They maintained that the intent of the ULP government was to punish businesses leaders who did not support the governing party.

Following the defeat of the opposition NDP in yet another election, we are hearing similar sentiments. NDP supporters are encouraged to support businesses which are believed to support the opposition. It is also shocking to hear opposition supporters, including prominent ones who should know and do better, say that people who voted for the ULP should beg ULP government officials. They swear on their parents’ graves that no supporter of the governing party will get as much as a morsel of bread from them.

It would be laughable if this issue were not so devastatingly divisive and serious. ULP supporters are condemning the NDP supporters for calling on members and supporters of the opposition to support their own.

Many of those who hypocritically condemn opposition supporters were some of the vocal supporters of Gonsalves’ call to create competition, pressure and potentially destroy the businesses owned by ‘opposition business people.’

This level of hypocrisy and tribal madness must be roundly condemned.

By supporting these ridiculous positions, we are contributing to an unhealthy situation in which supporters of each party do not see family, friend or neighbour. They do not see among them citizens with whom they could respectfully disagree. Because they are clothed with political blinders, they harbour visions of evil creatures who should be hated, pressured, disregarded and possibly disappeared.

We have repeatedly invoked the wise words of many African revolutionaries who stand by the mantra, ‘For the Nation to survive the tribe must die.’ As the stakes get higher, as politicians continue to suck on what Fidel Castro called the “honeycomb of power,” or as opposition aspirants anticipate and salivate at the prospects of a feeding frenzy awaiting their ascension to the corridors of power, we fear a sad reality in which our politics will descend into a blood sport with the attendant pain, suffering, death and dislocation that befall a nation caught in the madness of tribal politics.

The political class reminds us that ‘blood is thicker than water and politics makes for the thickest bind of all’. With the unfortunate development where civil society has been choked to death

and independent, contrarian thought given a warning to depart, we anticipate the further deterioration of our polity.

Hot on the heels of the November 5 elections, both party leaders bay for a grudge fest. Gonsalves, who floated the idea of unity and reconciliation, has settled back into his comfort zone as ‘ancient warrior’. Friday, who lost the elections but won the popular vote, has picked up on a view first articulated by Gonsalves over two decades ago; that a minority government lacks the ‘democratic legitimacy and the moral authority to govern.’

As political jockeying for power intensifies, the national interest demands that more citizens break their silence. A sense of national duty demands a sharp rebuke of politicians and supporters on both sides of the political divide, who frequently excite and incite away from national unity and towards conflict and division.

If our slice of paradise is to remain safe, everyone must be encouraged to stand for right over wrong, good over evil, transparency over corruption and meritocracy over nepotism, for fair play and good governance.

If none of that moves you, we invoke the ancestral energy of Audre Lorde, whose father hailed from Barbadian and her mother from Carriacou, Grenada: ‘Your silence will not protect you. I am not free while any woman [man] is unfree, even when her [his] shackles are very different from my own.

“I was going to die, sooner or later, whether or not I had even spoken myself. My silences had not protected me. Your silences will not protect you.

What are the words you do not yet have? What are the tyrannies you swallow day by day and attempt to make your own, until you will sicken and die of them, still in silence? We have been socialized to respect fear more than our own need for language.

“What's the worst that could happen to me if I tell this truth? Unlike women [men] in other countries, our breaking silence is unlikely to have us jailed, ‘disappeared’ or run off the road at night. Our speaking out will irritate some people, get us called [arrogant], bitchy or hypersensitive and disrupt some dinner parties. And then our speaking out will permit other women [men] to speak, until laws are changed and lives are saved and the world is altered forever.

“Next time, ask: What's the worst that will happen? Then push yourself a little further than you dare. Once you start to speak, people will yell at you.

They will interrupt you, put you down and suggest it's personal. And the world won't end.

“And the speaking will get easier and easier. And you will find you have fallen in love with your own vision, which you may never have realized you had. And you will lose some friends and lovers, and realize you don't miss them. And new ones will find you and cherish you.

And at last, you'll know with surpassing certainty that only one thing is more frightening than speaking your truth.

And that is not speaking.”

We can no longer hold our peace. We must speak now.

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

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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Factories needed in SVG AFTER 19 years of a ULP government, the country is in a very bad state.

Unemployment is very high and the economy is very weak. The ULP regime has tried to run the economy on tourism, pretty much alone, and this is a major mistake.

The economy should be run by different sectors, not just tourism. Agroprocessing and manufacturing would be good sources of revenue for the country, and for that, SVG needs factories. Our country has significant potential to export many goods, but the economic incompetence and lack of vision of the ULP regime are dragging our economy down and pushing unemployment up.

The SVG economy cannot grow significantly unless we increase the number of products that are exported.

Creating new products expands the economy, and in order to create new products, especially in light industries and agro-processing, we must build factories.

The economically incompetent ULP regime is focused on a policy of begging and borrowing and mass tourism. This is a waste of time and does not bring longterm, sustainable economic growth.

The priority for SVG is to build factories to create jobs, boost the economy and help farmers and small businesses export their goods driving import substitution in the process. We need to change our economy so that it is export-oriented.

We should cut ties with Taiwan and use SVG’s deep-sea tuna fishing licence to set up a tuna fishing and canning industry. A factory could be built in SVG to process and can tuna fish, so that it can be exported and also sold in shops in SVG. A tuna fishing and canning industry would create thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in

revenue a year for our country.

In Zanzibar, the tuna fishing and canning industry created hundreds of new jobs in secondary industries such as ice-making plants, cold-storage services, boat-building yards, workshops to make fishing nets and engine repair and maintenance workshops.

It is imperative that factories are set up for agro-processing. It makes no sense that SVG exports peanuts but imports peanut butter, and exports a variety of fruits but imports fruit juices.

These types of economic anomalies need to be sorted, to create jobs and strengthen our economy. By exporting ‘value-added’ products such as fruit juices and peanut butter, rather than primary products such as peanuts and fruit, the economy will grow faster.

By setting up agro-processing factories in SVG and making use of the fruit and vegetables SVG farmers produce, about $200 million a year would be going into the pockets of SVG farmers, and it makes food cheaper for everyone in SVG. SVG should be exporting products such as organic tea, organic baby food, organic fruit juices, organic honey, organic dried fruits, organic vacuumpacked vegetables, organic bottled coconut water, organic coffee, smoked fish and numerous other products.

Many of the vegetables/ground provision grown in SVG, such as dasheen, have by-products that can be exported too. Vision and innovation are needed to boost the economy and create a thriving agro-processing industry. The ULP regime has been a failure.

Most of the manufactured goods in SVG are imported. For example, most clothing in SVG is imported, but by importing cloth and working with

fashion designers our country could not only have factories producing clothes, but exporting clothes too.

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, believes that by doing this type of economic adjustment and innovation, we can bring the change that

is needed in our country to create thousands of new jobs, reboot the economy and get money circulating.

Factories, import substitution and an export-oriented economy are necessary to reduce poverty, expand the economy and create economic growth.

Committee for the development of women towards eradicating the language of violence “WE WOULD be known forever by the tracks we leave behind.”

This is an introspection on life handed down by the Elders of our Indigenous/First Nations/First Peoples.

It is a reminder on which our Nation would do well to ponder, as we face the challenges of people-centred development.

One of the main challenges is the issue of violence in all its forms that wreaks havoc on all sectors of the population, regardless of race, class, gender, educational or employment status. The Police focus on arrests, the Courts focus on convictions and collection of fines or sentencing, while the Prisons focus on incarceration, and lawyers focus on Appeals. The Cycle continues. Unfortunately, there is little or no focus on the violence of language that feeds anger and physical abuse leading to destruction of the human body. We, the people, use our language to inflict indignities on each other.

In many cases, it is the violent utterances that precede the physical violence of wounding, maiming and murder. It is the driver of psychological damage, depression, suicidal thoughts, mental instability, and low work performance.

I am appalled at the language used by many columnists and contributors in our print and electronic media.

Language that can only feed violence and discontent - indeed the pen is mightier than the sword, but when the tongue is a den of iniquity, we have formidable enemies that cannot be overcome by existing legislation.

Our indigenous Elders understood the lessons of nature, the value of every part of the creation, treated the animate and inanimate creation with respect, and reminded us of the consequences of our actions.

Since we have appeared to reject dictatorship in any of its forms, why do we fail to recognize the part that each individual has to play in our nation’s development? Let the leadership emerge in our villages, bring our concerns to the table and effect change.

Our Community Organisations must return to the post they have abandoned.

Many of the positive policies and attitudes in our country over several decades were brought about through the unflinching advocacy of our national and regional non-governmental organisations. How did we do this? Ask the leaders in Chateau Stars, Rose Hall Working Group, Rankin Roots, SUDO, NAM, NAME, SUDO, TBPO, CDO, ROBDA, QUESCO, CASMAC, LCDO, CARIPEDA, PP, ESG, CDW, NCW, to name a few. Though many of these organisations no longer exist by name, membership does, and I believe that within, a fire still flickers.

Can we fan these flames, or is it that we want to leave a tarnished legacy? Remember, ‘We would be known forever by the tracks we leave behind”.

Working with men and boys on gender equality In this month of November there is need for the language of peace. Also, we need to draw attention to insecurities among women, men and children in the society. From International Men’s Day 19th November to December 10 World Human Rights Day, we raise issues and advocate against injustices. Let not the words of our mouths be arrows of humiliation, but messengers to encourage positive change, treating each other with respect.

It was the Hon. Frederick Stephenson who asked the question, “Why Not 22?

As he acknowledged the International Men’s Day 19th November, and the sixteen days of activism commencing 25th November, and ending on 10th December. November 25th is celebrated as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, and December 10th is World Human Rights Day. Between these dates three other significant dates fall November 29, International Women Human Rights Defenders Day; December 1, World AIDS Day; and December 6, which marks the Anniversary of the Montreal Massacre when several women in their search for higher education at a previously allmale institution were gunned down by male students who objected to their presence.

The Hon. Minister noted that IMD falling on the 19th November was an apt date to celebrate, as the concerns were heavily intertwined in the issues of the 16th days.

Twenty-two days of Activism draws men into an advocacy struggle that touches the lives of boys and girls, men and women, and impact heavily on women. It is an opportunity to catch the attention of men so that they would become a key sector for the change we wish to see.

Men’s issues are critical and include — high male suicide across the world; educational challenges that face both men and boys at all stages of their lives; men’s health, male violence, the fact that males are also victims of rape, sexual exploitation and domestic violence; their challenges as single parents or parents who do not have a good relationship with the mothers of their children.

These concerns and more tell us that we are in a society with too high a percentage of battered persons — victims and perpetrators — seeking a life free of violence. The solution to women’s concerns hinges on changed behaviour and cultural patterns on the part of both men and women.

Working with men and boys on gender equality is pivotal to reduce violence against women and girls.

Nelcia Robinson Coordinator - CDW

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 13.

Community

RESIDENTS OF FANCY, the northern-most realized that the main road in and out of village in mainland St. Vincent, woke up the village was blocked by a massive Sunday morning, (November 29, 2020) landslide. after some heavy overnight showers and The land slippage had occurred in an area referred to as ‘Louise’, situated between Kramakou and Fancy.

Besides that major blockage, there were at least three other land slippages in the Fancy area, but not as large as the one at ‘Louise’.

Despite not having vehicular access into or out of Fancy, there was still internet connectivity, and former Principal of the Fancy Government School, Ms. Elna Michael, who also happens to be a licensed ham radio operator (J88NEK), tried to make contact with NEMO by phone.

This proved futile but a call to another radio operator, Don De Riggs (J88CD), was successful.

De Riggs moved quickly to relay the information to NEMO’s Deputy Director, Kenson Stoddard, who in turn notified BRAGSA. BRAGSA immediately issued instruction for a front end loader, pre-positioned in the North Windward district during the storm season, to begin to remove the The backhoe on its way to clear the blockage. landslide at ‘Louise’, Fancy.

Reports are that it took the better

part of two hours to clear the mud, trees and other items.

The clean-up that followed ensured that the roadway was cleared so that buses taking children to Secondary Schools on Monday morning, had no difficulty doing so.

YARA can help

The Youlou Radio Movement relies on support from private donors in providing a vital first responders service especially in times of national disasters.

Donald De Riggs, Director of the Youlou Amateur Radio Association (YARA), said that team work was responsible for the timely response to the Fancy situation and commended all the persons involved.

Fortunately, Sunday’s landslide did not take out any utility poles; internet and telephone services remained intact making it possible for Ms. Michael to get the message out using WhatApps.

Had Ms. Michael had support for her ham radio, a viable alternate medium of communication, she would have liaised with first responders in other parts of the island.

Unfortunately, she could not use this medium since the 12-volt (battery) power source for her radio had outlived its usefulness. That battery

was donated by SVG General Services some five years ago.

YARA, a non-profit volunteer organization, is able to conduct training exercises and function in times of real urgencies and emergencies because of the kind assistance of corporate citizens, who donate equipment or provide support services.

YARA is currently seeking assistance to purchase, or for a donation of some 12 volt batteries (between 80aH and 200 Ah), to place in critical areas like Fancy, Rose Hall, Mayreau and Union Island.

Contributed by: Donald A. De Riggs

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14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Business

E.T. Joshua Airport Terminal transformed Ace 2 marks the beginning of the transformation of the old E.T. Joshua Airport terminal into a shopping centre.

THE DOORS TO THE ACE 2 and Coreas Pharmacy 2 were officially opened on November 26 at its new location, the Joshua Centre, formerly the terminal of the now decommissioned E. T. Joshua Airport, at Arnos Vale.

This latest expansion project by Coreas Hazells also mark the first tangible step towards turning the former terminal building into a shopping facility.

“The initiative is one that has brought great satisfaction and pride; on top of that we are elated to be the first operational business at the new mall which is currently under development,” Brian George, Divisional Manager for Coreas Building Supplies said.

With the government articulating the vision of a new city at Arnos Vale, George said that the company jumped Hans King, Manager of National on the opportunity to be a part of this Properties, envisages a ‘marvelous initiative. edifice’ when the terminal building’s According to Hans King, Manager of transformation is complete.

National Properties (NP) which assumed oversite of the property at the former airport, it cost EC$15,000 to maintain the property in 2019.

So when the call came in from Joel Providence, Managing Director of Coreas Hazells, for that company to be one of the anchor tenants at the terminal site in the larger proposal of a modern city at Arnos Vale, both parties agreed to embark on the project.

Approval for the project was granted by Cabinet after presentation of plans and other Brian George, relevant Divisional Manager Joel Providence, CEO of Coreas documentation. for Coreas Building Hazells Inc. said, not in as many According to Supplies, said ACE 2 words, that his company was King, the facility had outgrown its pleased to be part of the unfolding is expected to previous location. of the Prime Minister’s vision.

house ten stores and will feature banking/ATM services.

What was the Air Traffic Control Tower will be converted into a bar, and the restaurant is expected to be converted into a high-end restaurant.

Renovation/refurbishment of the terminal building is expected to continue unabated and is planned so as to transform it into an ‘L’ shape, King continued, with the new addition housing a furniture store and food court with open seating.

“So when the entire project is finished, you are going to have a marvelous edifice here at the old E.T Joshua Airport,” King said.

Providence credited Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves for having the vision of a new airport facility that would eventually make way for other uses of the terminal at the old airport and, in effect, begin what is to become a new development.

He said that he was pleased with the overall transformation that has already occurred as a result of the Coreas Hazell initiative.

“Gone are the immigration and

The Air Traffic Control Tower will become a bar, expected to add further class to the new facility.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves described the Government- Coreas Hazels Inc. relationship as a “good partnership.” customs booths, gone are the conveyer belts and the luggage room, gone is the VIP lounge — instead we have charming aisles of over 20,000 well priced hardware, household and pharmaceutical products of quality,” the Managing Director said.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves congratulated all those who were involved in the ACE 2/Coreas Pharmacy 2 project, and asserted that he was very happy with the move by Coreas Hazells Inc. Dr. Gonsalves also used the opportunity to highlight the need for proper drainage and additional river defences to accommodate the development that is anticipated for the entire old airport site.

He underscored that Government and Coreas Hazells Inc. had formed a good partnership. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 15.

News/Arts

A city cannot be built in five years Below: The original artist’s impression of the modern city proposed for the E. T. Joshua Airport and surrounding areas. This has since been revised.

PRIME MINISTER DR RALPH GONSALVES said on November 26 on the occasion of the opening of Coreas and Hazells’ Ace 2 and Coreas Pharmacy 2 at the now decommissioned E.T Joshua Airport, that a city cannot be built in five years.

He chose to address the issue of the proposed city at Arnos Vale in response to the opposition New Democratic Party’s (NDP) claim which was highlighted in its 2020 election campaign, that the proposed project was a failed one.

“And some people got sucked into that,” the Prime Minister said.

“The fact of the matter is this: to plan to build a city here is one that is going to take many, many years,” he continued.

“Otherwise, if you come off Casson Hill, what you will have is a ramshackle amalgamation of buildings, and the 200 acres we have here… If you want to build a city in one year, you can build it.

“I don’t want anybody to

curse me after I am gone, to say I start a ramshackle city here. I build it out like a slum - no!” the PM asserted.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, there have been numerous offers submitted by investors to begin developing the area.

“They asked me, but I said that they first needed to have a plan,” Gonsalves explained.

There is a registered company called the Arnos Vale Development Company, set up to oversee the development of the Arnos Vale airport site.

However, Dr. Gonsalves said that it had not been activated in order not to incur administrative costs.

National Properties is the entity involved presently as the project is still in the development phase.

Gonsalves further explained that there were a number of other issues that needed to be dealt with before a modern city could be developed at Arnos Vale.

A major issue he raised was that of drainage - and with the proposal for the establishment of a housing development at

Fenton, there is going to be more runoff in the Arnos Vale area.

Government had also been advised by an architectural firm to have one or two anchor projects to the new city, and that was why the decision had been made for the construction of the referral hospital, Dr.

Gonsalves disclosed.

On the advice of a consultant, a site has now been selected and the design completed for the hospital, and plans are being made towards procuring a soft loan from the World Bank, to support the construction.

A revised plan incorporates

the Arnos Vale Playing Field, as part of the proposed city.

In the meantime, work is ongoing to convert what was the terminal building at the now de-commissioned E.T. Joshua Airport, into a mall to be re-christened’ the Joshua Centre. (DD)

YAC to host Three Plus Three Show

The 3+3 Show promises to be rich and exciting.

(Photos courtesy YAC) THE YOULOU ART CENTRE (YAC) is exhibiting a brand new

show just in time for the Christmas Season and beyond.

This new show, titled ‘Three Plus Three

Show (3+3 Show), opens on Saturday, December 12th, 2020 and runs through March, 2021.

An opening reception, to which the public is invited, is slated for Saturday, December 12th, from 5pm - 8pm.

The name of the show reflects the artists whose works will be exhibited — three painters and three photographers.

These are Glendon Holder, Amanda Frederick, Marc Erdrich, Daviana Basilio, Peter Providence, and Kingsley Roberts.

Ahead of the Exhibition, Amanda Frederick and Marc Erdrich shared insights into who they are, their chosen fields and what motivates them.

Amanda Frederick is an artist from New Montrose, Kingstown. As a child she was always interested in shape, form and self-expression. Her mother encouraged and supported her artistic interests by supplying her with sketch books and paints.

Upon graduating from the St. Vincent Community College, she attended the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica, from 2014 to 2018, and she gained a first class honours degree.

These days Amanda is a full time artist and is also a textile artist, making sculptural pieces.

She is bent on exploring her personal heritage while paying homage to her African ancestry. Toward this end, her work examines concepts that are both significant and relevant to understanding her sense of place in the Caribbean.

Marc Erdrich has lived in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for many years. He is often called upon to print images for various local artists.

He does not presume to be at the top of his art making; in fact, he is humble about his art making abilities.

“I don’t think of myself as a photographer per se.

Amanda Frederick has now included making sculptural pieces in her portfolio.

Marc Erdrich thinks of himself as an ‘imagist’ rather than a simple photographer.

by ‘amateur photographers’ with the digital cameras on their mobile phones,” Marc I prefer to call myself an opined. “imagist” since I deal Marc, though, with the written word as emphasized that he much as I do with shuns ‘snapshots’. “I photographs,” he said of look for something not himself and his work. readily seen in my He admitted that he photographs.” He said. was never trained as a Marc said that there photographer and is an entire school of willingly conceded to his abstract photography limitations in that that fascinates him and regard. that is where he is “That said, today spending most of his everyone is something of time these days. a photographer and I am The 3+3 Show often astounded at the promises to be rich and remarkable imagery shot exciting. (Source: YAC)

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16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Entertainment

Do we follow suit?

Those African American entertainers who now suffer the brunt of ‘jives’ for their ‘support’ of one political side (Trump).

THIS WEEK’S V ENTERTAINMENT column is inspired, by a screen shot from a Tic Toc posting, depicting several highly successful African American entertainers referred to ‘The Coon Squad’ as supporters of the Donald Trump

Administration.

Pictured are high profiled entertainment personalities like Kanye West, Fifty Cents, Ice Cube, and Lil Wayne with a not so subtle suggestion to ‘boycott their work. (See accompanying image.)

‘Luta’ didn’t hide his support for the red side (ULP). Will he pay a price?

‘Flanka’ put his all behind and in front of the NDP. Will he pay a price?

Are we, as we are prone to do with everything else that is coughed up by the USA, going to replicate this practice in SVG? We as Caribbean people of African descent have come a long way in the Entertainment Industry and our appreciation of

should we apply that American sentiment with our artistes? Should ‘Flanka’ and ‘Casper G’, ‘Luta’, among others, be boycotted? Should we accept this as the norm?

The lifeblood of any entertainer is an audience, a fan base. An error in Judgment or a bad business decision should not place a target

entertainment generally.

Growing up in the SIXTIES and SEVENTIES, seeing a Movie with a ‘Darkie’ — a person of black skin was a big thing. Any such movies would have filled the Russell’s and Lyric cinemas. We have come a long way since.

The question is,

on his or her back.

Last week we highlighted Problem Child. His new album sits at NUMBER THREE on Apple iTunes.

Here’s a lil’ chuckle: Don’t ‘Call Me If’ (al la Dexta Dapps) you have matters of entertainment worthy of mentioning.

Email production.ctview @gmail.com (CD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 17.

News

National Health Insurance ...the way to go!

LET ME FIRST SAY THANKS to all who provided positive feedback to my recent writings encouraging our politicians to move in the direction of providing health insurance for the poor and indigent in this country. After all, politicians are there to articulate the needs of the electorate as well as to fulfil OUR wishes, especially if it is for the national good.

It is a fact that the majority of Vincentians

cannot afford health insurance, period! Also a fact is that our lifestyle and eating habits have created a multiplicity of medical and other health issues, some of which CANNOT be adequately managed in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

So what is the solution? National Health Insurance (NHI)!!

And for NHI to be useful, all able bodied working Vincentians, and foreigners working in SVG, must contribute to

the pot. The sooner the better! Had we started it since in 2001, the pot would have been more than sufficient to adequately satisfy our medical needs in 2020 and beyond. As the saying goes: ‘It is never too late to start’, and ‘…better late than never’.

Now is the time for both the ULP - with its majority of electoral seats in Parliament - and the NDP - that has the overwhelming support of the majority of the

Eat more local food!

NOT FOR THE FIRST TIME, and not perhaps for the last time, a call is going out to citizens and residents of this country to “consume more locally produced food.”

This most recent call has come from this country’s Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, who has asked the nation, to “be prepared to eat more locally produced food in 2021.”

He made the call against the background of what he said was a reduction in the demand for many of our products on the export market.

While we produce a large percentage of the food that we consume, the Minister posited, the current food import bill is in excess of EC$100 million.

Towards addressing this, it is expected, as per indication by the Minister, that over the next weeks,

the “Commodity Approach” to production will be discussed with all food producing and marketing stakeholders.

While he recognized that “There is a need for greater alignment between producers and markets; and the current Extension Service structure in the Ministry of Agriculture,” he admitted that there is a serious shortcoming in this regard.

Technicians in the Ministry are said to be addressing this situation towards implemented remedial action.

And in assessing the prospects of local producers, he referenced the growing tourism sector, the construction of several hotels, and the opportunity that can be availed through commercial transatlantic flights, as areas of encouragement.

(Source: Min. of Agri.)

There is no want of produce on the local market.

electorate, to sit down like gentlemen, and discuss the future of health care services in SVG. Is it asking too much for this ‘sit down’ to be held within the first 100 days of this new Parliament?

With the proposed construction of a modern hospital, there will be services that will have to be paid for, and here is where NHI can step in to cushion the economic impact of advanced medical care for everyone. Look at how much funds have already been realized since the extra 1% was added to VAT as a disaster mitigation fund. Maybe parliament can re-direct that 1% for one year, towards setting up the

NHI service (NHIS), as ‘new taxes’ is always a dirty word for tax payers.

But the reality is that if a NHIS is to work for our collective good, we must all contribute to it, including senior citizens and those receiving pension.

Our Prime Minister said that he is an ‘all inclusive’ man, so let’s get the discussion going, because this is an issue to which he cannot say NO. I know he has a soft spot and compassion for the poor and indigent as

exemplified some years ago when a landslide buried part of a family, and a 3 or 4-year-old survivor notified the neighbours that the family was buried in mud. Those who responded were able to save one of the family members. The Comrade later provided a house for that child’s family.

Let’s not forget that!

The NHI discussion has started on these pages; let it continue in the House. Jimmy, this is one for you.

Donald De Riggs

18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

V Maxwell „Iwaki‰ Haywood remembered

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 19.

Diaspora

Committee of New York, Inc., an out-growth of the 2009 Vincy Homecoming Conference.

EXACTLY THREE YEARS He had “a vital after his untimely death organizing role” in the due to stage 4 cancer, the Homecoming Conference Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and was the lead author and the Grenadines on the outcome Diaspora Committee of document, “A Framework New York, Inc. on Sunday for Action,” which remembered its founder “immortalized the ideas” and leader, Maxwell emanating from the “Iwaki” Haywood. conference.

The Committee said that Haywood, who died Other efforts Nov. 29, 2017, “will long be remembered for his In addition, the contributions to the committee said Haywood Vincentian community.” was “a major mover and In its continuing shaker” in the reflection on and Vincentian Diaspora celebration of Haywood’s community, and that he life and legacy, the served on numerous committee said, in a committees focusing on statement, that organizational capacityHaywood, who founded building, culture, sports the group in 2010 and and disaster relief was its chairman up to efforts. his death, was renowned But it was Haywood’s for his contribution to most dynamic the Vincentian and involvement with the St. Caribbean communities Vincent and the as a community Grenadines Diaspora organizer, and Committee of New York, “contributing voice” to Inc., which, under his newspapers and radio leadership, resulted in stations in his native the hosting of numerous land. activities, including the “He regularly SVG (St. Vincent and the commented on social, Grenadines) Diaspora political and cultural and Development issues on the landscape Conference in 2012, of St. Vincent and the which brought Grenadines and the government, business Caribbean,” the and civil society leaders committee said. together to dialogue on Born on Dec. 13, 1963, partnerships for in New Grounds, in development.

South Central Under Haywood’s Windward, Haywood is leadership, the said to have left behind a committee also hosted 200-page, unfinished numerous forums focused collection of writings, on culture, sports, youth, which his family has women, business and promised to bring to unity in the Vincentian publication. community in New York.

Haywood, the Through the Committee said, was committee, two affiliate instrumental in the entities were formed: The formation of the Cultural Association of Brooklyn-based Vincentians in the U.S.A. Vincentian umbrella (CAVUSA) and SVGgroup in the United USA Sports Association States, Council of St. (SVGUSASA).

Vincent and the Grenadines His professional Organizations, U.SA. undertakings (COSAGO), and later the St. Vincent and the After graduating from Grenadines Diaspora Brooklyn’s Medgar Evers

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

College and The New School University in New York, Haywood established a 25-year career with the United Nations, working on issues such as drug control, poverty eradication, youth, education, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and cooperatives.

His career at the United Nations came to a screeching end with his cancer diagnosis, while he was the “Focal Point” for the UN Programme on the Cooperative Enterprise Model of Development in the Division for Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).

As a professed socialist and PanAfricanist, the committee said Haywood “cherished this role, which allowed him to advance and promote the ideals of cooperative economics for the upliftment of the world’s most vulnerable populations.”

On his final mission to Brazil, in March 2017, two months shy of his death, the committee said Haywood presented at an international Cooperatives Forum, “where he was heralded as a champion of the cooperative movement.”

The legacy A year after Haywood’s death, the committee established the Maxwell Haywood Scholarship and Development Fund, with the hosting of a public lecture at Medgar Evers College by Justice Adrian Saunders, the Vincentian-born Chief Justice of the Trinidad and Tobago-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). Justice Saunders spoke on “The Role of the CCJ in furthering the Caribbean Civilization.”

The fund also sponsors two secondary school

scholarships for students in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In his last speech to the Vincentian community in Brooklyn, in April 2017, the committee said Haywood urged nationals to “work in unity and forge greater partnerships to ensure the continued growth and development of the Vincentian Diaspora and the homeland.”

Haywood’s widow, Sherrill-Ann Mason Haywood, who succeeded him as chair of the SVG Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc., told THE VINCENTIAN on

Maxwell “Iwaki” Haywood – a professed socialist and Pan-Africanist, committed to advance and promote the ideals of cooperative economics.

(Photo courtesy: Sherrill-Ann Mason Haywood) Sunday that she was “happy” that the committee “continues to remember Maxwell and his contributions, because he loved the

Vincentian community dearly and dedicated much of his life to serving in various capacities.

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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Two-timing boyfriend Dear George, I WAS IN BED with my boyfriend when he answered a cell phone call on his cell phone. He claimed “a friend” wanted some assistance with his car. He left at 12:30 am and returned after 6:30 am saying that was how long it took to fix the vehicle.

I found out some days after that he was seen walking a pregnant woman from her house to his car, presumable to take her to the hospital. This is the same man who told me that he hates hospitals and doctor clinics. But a friend had taken a picture of him at the hospital and forwarded to me.

I confronted him about it and his answer was that it was an emergency situation and this woman, a friend, had no one else to call, and that the baby was not his. He claimed to be set up.

George, he keeps calling me begging me not to leave him and I was the only woman in his life. I told him finally that if he provides me DNA evidence that the child is not his I will

reconsider. He refused. What do you think George?

Taken for a ride, Dear taken, Everything about this looks, sounds and walks like a duck. You do not need DNA evidence to prove that this boyfriend of yours is living a double life. A picture is worth a thousand words. Further, if he was being truthful, his response to him presenting DNA evidence would have been, “I’ll be glad to.”

Clearly your boyfriend’s time is divided between you and someone else. You should never settle for that.

George

A deceiving fiancée son living in America. She went away when she learned of her I JUST called off my pregnancy and had the engagement after child there, and left him discovering some dark secrets about my fiancée. with her sister.

She is now asking me My girlfriend swore to forgive her for lying. that she has never had I never wanted a woman children, and she insisted that we not have who had children and she knew that. I cannot sex before marriage. move forward with this One evening we were girl. Am I wrong? drinking and ended up having sex. The bottom Unchanging heart, line was that she was not a virgin, and that led me to go digging into her Dear Unchanging heart, past.

You are well within George, my dear fiancée has a 17-year-old your rights not to continue with this

Dear George,

relationship. Yes, you can forgive her for lying to you, but that does not mean you have to continue with her.

You made it clear that you never wanted someone who had children, and she knowingly deceived you.

It is best to cut ties now. A relationship should never be built on lies and deception and I hope your girlfriend learned a lesson from this, as painful as it may be.

George

Illegal and morally wrong be the one deciding to keep secret something that should not happen in I HAVE my eyes on this slightly under be first place.

Familiarize yourself with the age young lady who does not, in any penalty for having sexual intercourse way, look her age. with a minor and ask yourself if it is Besides, she told me she is very something over which to risk you experienced in sexual matters and future. promised to pleasure me in “every Be the adult and advise this young way”. Further, the fact that I am 20 girl to get her act together. Then, get years her senior doesn’t bother her as far away from her as since she likes older men.

She promised to keep our dealings a possible. Conscious adults do not prey on the innocence of minors. secret once we got involved. My question to you is, do you think I George should trust her to keep tight-lipped about us?

Dear George,

Gut feelings Dear Gut feelings, You know deep down that any involvement with this minor would be illegal, not to mention morally wrong.

Moreover, you should never put a minor in a situation where she has to

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You will accomplish the most in the work environment this week. Find out what they're up to, and see if you can pick up where you left off. Don't let situations get out of control.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Be careful that you aren't saddled with the responsibilities of others. Do not over expand if you have your own business. Sit tight. Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Verbal abuse could lead to carelessness. Travel will promote new romantic connections. A change in position could be better than you thought. Outdoor sports events should entice you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can expect your mate to get fed up and make the choices for you or back off completely. Don't let others try to create unwarranted guilt if you can't meet their demands. Use your inventiveness to find solutions.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You will feel compelled to do some traveling. Mingle with those who can help you get ahead. Make career changes that may increase your income.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will have to watch out for minor health problems related to stress.

Rewards will be yours if you put in the overtime required. You may have difficulties with someone close to you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) It's a favorable time for real estate, investments, and moneymaking opportunities to be successful. Read between the lines when signing contracts.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Romance will unfold through business trips. Be careful what you consume this week. Try not to overspend on friends or family. Travel and family gatherings should be in order.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Don't hesitate to present your unique ideas. Travel should be on your mind.

Do not borrow or lend money or belongings to friends or relatives if you wish to avoid any hassles.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Get involved in creative projects that will enhance your earning power. Put aside any decisions concerning your position at work. You have a real need to be vocal.

Romantic encounters are evident through travel or educational pursuits.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Get down to business and do the work yourself. You will be extremely receptive to new and progressive methods at work. You can convince anyone of anything.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You could be drawn to events that concern children. You should make special plans for you and your lover. You will be extremely receptive to new and progressive methods at work.

ACROSS 1. First Lady Truman 5. Quick 9. Feline call 12. State firmly 13. Hardly busy 14. Scottish affirmation 15. Verdi composition 16. Sentence subject 17. Kickoff gadget 18. Shut noisily 19. Make evident 21. Gasp loudly 24. Showed again 27. Job listings 30. Diana of Motown 32. Puerto __ 33. Changed into 35. Havana residents 37. British noble 38. Practice fighting 40. Cinematic Remick 41. Garbage 43. Quaint hotels 45. Big deer 47. Shortage 51. Small flap 53. Nasty remark 55. Middle East country 56. Squeaky-hinge lubricant 57. Formerly 58. Grow sleepy 59. Sooner than, poetically 60. Glimpsed 61. Retain event DOWN

1.Sheep bleats 2. Morally wrong 3. Fizzy drink 4. Marshy land 5. Shark propeller 6. Takes in 7. Say indistinctly 8. Choir member 9. Fabric 10. Storm center 11. Pint-size 20. Action word 22. Wrist locale 23. Uttered denials 25. Skin blemish 26. Face part 27. Enable (criminal doings) 28. Precious 29. Whip (eggs)

31. Read briefly 34. Too 36. Vase relative 39. Penetrate 42. Wandering fellows 44. Narrow cracks 46. Sensible

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 21.

48. Operatic solo 49. Elder Reiner 50. Reflex-testing site 51. Boot end 52. Televise 54. Patriot Franklin

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22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

International Relations

Taiwan is crucial to the global fight against cybercrime Huang Ming-chao Commissioner Criminal Investigation Bureau Ministry of the Interior Republic of China (Taiwan) November 27, 2020 Taiwan’s national anti-pandemic and cybersecurity teams AS COVID-19 has seriously affected people’s lives and safety, cybercrime is undermining national security, business operations, and the security of personal information and property, causing significant damage and losses. Faced with cyber threats and related challenges, Taiwan has actively promoted policies built around the concept that information security is national security. It has bolstered efforts to train IT security specialists and develop the IT security industry and innovative technologies. Taiwan’s national teams are ever present when it comes to disease or cybercrime prevention.

dissemination of child pornography, infringements on intellectual property rights, and the theft of trade secrets.

Business email fraud and ransomware have also generated heavy financial losses among enterprises, while cryptocurrencies have become an avenue for criminal transactions and money laundering. Since anyone with online access can connect to any internet-enabled device in the world, crime syndicates are exploiting the anonymity and freedom this provides to conceal their identities and engage in illegal activities.

The Taiwanese police force has a special unit for investigating technology crimes comprising Cybercrime has increased significantly since the outbreak of the professional cybercrime investigators.

It has also established a digital COVID-19 pandemic. (Image: forensics laboratory meeting ISO INTERPOL) 17025 requirements. Cybercrime knows no borders, so Taiwan hopes to work with the rest of the world in Cybercrime knows no borders; Taiwan jointly fighting the problem. seeks cross-border cooperation With state-sponsored hacking Nations around the globe are rampant, intelligence sharing is fighting the widely condemned essential to Taiwan.

illegally withdrawn from First Commercial Bank ATMs. Within a week, the police had recovered NT$77.48 million of the stolen funds and arrested three members of a hacking syndicate–Andrejs Peregudovs, a Latvian; Mihail Colibaba, a Romanian; and Niklae Penkov, a Moldovan–that had until then remained untouched by the law.

The incident drew international attention. In September that same year, a similar ATM heist occurred in Romania. A suspect Babii was believed to be involved in both cases, leading investigators to conclude that the thefts had been committed by the same syndicate. At the invitation of the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol), Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) visited its office three times to exchange intelligence and evidence. Subsequently, the two entities established Operation TAIEX. Under this plan, the CIB provided key evidence retrieved from suspects’ mobile phones to Europol, which sieved through the evidence and identified the suspected mastermind, In August 2020, the US Department known as Dennys, who was then based of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau in Spain. This led to his arrest by of Investigation, and Department of Europol and the Spanish police, Defense released the Malware putting an end to the hacking Analysis Report, identifying a statesyndicate. sponsored hacking organization that has recently been using a 2008 malware variant known as TAIDOOR to launch attacks. Numerous Taiwanese government agencies and businesses have previously been subject to such attacks. In a 2012 report on this malware, Trend Micro Inc. observed that all of the victims were from Taiwan, and that the majority were government organizations.

Every month, Taiwan’s public sector experiences an extremely high number of cyberattacks from beyond To crack down on hacking Taiwan’s borders–between 20 and 40 syndicates, Europol invited Taiwan’s million instances. Being the priority CIB to jointly form Operation TAIEX. target of state-sponsored attacks, Taiwan has been able to track their sources and methods and the malware The fight against cybercrime requires used. By sharing intelligence, Taiwan international cooperation, and Taiwan could help other countries avert must work together with other countries. Taiwan can help these other potential threats and facilitate the countries, and is willing to share its establishment of a joint security mechanism to counter state experiences so as to make cyberspace cyberthreat actors. Additionally, given safer and realize a truly borderless that hackers often use command-and- internet. I ask that you support control servers to set breakpoints and Taiwan’s participation in the annual thus evade investigation, international INTERPOL General Assembly as an cooperation is essential for piecing Observer, as well as INTERPOL together a comprehensive picture of meetings, mechanisms, and training chains of attack. activities. By voicing your backing for Taiwan in international forums, you can play a critical role in advancing In the fight against cybercrime, Taiwan’s objective of taking part in Taiwan can help. international organizations in a In July 2016, an unprecedented pragmatic and meaningful manner. In hacking infringement occurred in the fight against cybercrime, Taiwan Taiwan when NT$83.27 million was can help!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 23.

National Club Championship hand out awards Premier Division top goal scorer- Zidaine Sam.

Second Division top goal scorerZidane Anderson.

AMIDST SOME POMP AND PANACHE, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) last Thursday night at the Russell’s Auditorium, hosted its Awards Ceremony for the 2019/2020 National Club Championships.

Taking the Most Goals award in the Second Division was Zidane Anderson of Richmond Hill. Pride and Joy’s Orlando Trimmingham and Emery Bailey of Largo Height shared a similar honour in the First Division,.

The Premier Division’s top goal scorer was Zidaine Sam of Greiggs.

Whilst there was no overall Most Valuable Player (MVP), there were

MVPs awarded to a player from each of the clubs that competed in the championships.

Among the team awards, Roseans took the Most Disciplined Team in the Second Division, with Owia United and Bequia United doing likewise in the First Premier Divisions respectively.

The Best Attacking Team in the Second Division was Richmond Hill, while Volcanoes was the recipient in the First Division and System Three — Premier Division.

Gaining the Best Defensive Team award in the Second Division was

Parkside Rollers, with Largo Height, the First Division awardee, and North Leeward Predators in the Premier Division, In the overall titles, Parkside Rollers took the Second Division top prize, Richmond Hill was second, Strike Force- third, and Sharpes 09fourth.

Layou champed the First Division; Largo Height was second , Volcanoes — third and Pride and Joy fourth.

And, Nemwil Hope International was crowned the Premier Division champions, ahead of North Leeward Predators. Taking the third place was System Three and Je Belle ended fourth.

Former national Captain and Senior National Team Manager and current Head of the local chapter of the CONCACAF Next Play, Theon Gordon was the Featured Speaker. He spoke on the topic- ‘A Football Marriage, a Future of Possibilities’.

Competition in the 2019/2020 National Club Championships was restricted to three divisions given the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. There was no competition in the Female, Development and age groups categories.

Warren Ollivierre (left) accepts the Premier Division’s Most Disciplined Team award on behalf of Bequia United, from Geshelle PetersCommittee Member of the SVGFF.

First Division joint top goal scorersEmery Bailey (left) and Orlando Trimmingham.

Gordon prescribes formula for Football’s success 2019/2020 St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation’s National Club Championships — told his audience that there must be a “Long Term Development Plan” if football is to develop here.

“There needs to be a shared vision, mission and philosophy...People and organisations need to have clearly defined roles and functions within the system, as too often, we have been focussing on stop gap methods and solving problems as they pop up, instead of proactive and making moves to get us to Theon Gordon where we need to be,” Gordon espoused.

THEON GORDON — who As for players’ development, delivered the keynote address Gordon proffered, “We must at last Thursday’s Awards and develop players able to meet Recognition Ceremony for the the demands of the sport at

the highest level… Only a comprehensive player development process can help us to do this...Our aim should be to secure life-long players and fans of the game from the youngest to the oldest, and to enable talent to be developed to its fullest potential.”

Gordon also suggested that as part of the overall plan, a Comprehensive Coach Education programme must be instituted.

“The product that we get on the field is as a results of what our coaches or lack thereof teach our players… Once we improve the coaches, the players will improve and the game will too,” Gordon reasoned.

He noted, though, that in order for the structures and

programmes to come together, there must be adequate support from the administrative and technical arms of SVGFF. To this end, there must not only be adoption and implementation of and compliance with policies, but also a preparedness to make the hard decisions, Gordon advised.

And in addition to wanting to see “inclusiveness,” he proposed a data collection and qualitative analysis of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football; a Mentoring programme; evaluation of all programmes; a well organised structure for youth and adult competitions, as well as an Elite Programme for both males and females beginning

at Under-13 through to Under -17.

Critical to the quest, he identified the need for passionate, knowledgeable, experienced persons with the right leadership qualities, to guide the process.

Theon Gordon is a former St Vincent and the Grenadines Under-17, Under-23 and Senior team player, and manager of the SVGG Senior Men’s team. Trained in Sports Management in Venezuela, he is presently a teacher at the Bethel High School, is a CONCACAF Instructor and holds a CONCACAF C Licence Certificate.

Still active in the sport, he plays in the midfield for Premier Division Club- Je Belle, of which he also VicePresident.

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24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

National Club Championships kicks off Cheslon Hendrickson recorded the first hattrick for the new season.

CHESLON HENDRICKSON gave newly promoted Layou FC a dream start to their Premier Division return, when he converted three goals last Friday night at the Victoria Park, as the Jahva Audain 2020/2021 National Club turned a double Championships kicked off. for BESCO Layou’s opponents- Avenues Pastures against United had taken the lead in his former club, the 21st minute through an Je Belle.

Erel Hector penalty, but thereafter it was Hendrickson’s show, as he scored in the 52nd, 60th and 72nd minutes.

The other match in the double header was also a come from behind victory when reigning championsNemwil Hope International defeated System Three, 4-2.

Curlan Joseph put System Three ahead in the 25th minute, but his goal was cancelled out by Valdo Anderson in the 33rd minute.

Hope International was soon in the ascendancy when Anderson scored his second on minute 48.

Jahvin Sutherland cut the deficit in the 56th minute, to leave the match on edge 3-2 in favour of Hope International.

However, any possibility of a System Three

comeback was thrown from the equation, when Kevin Samuel converted in the 83rd minute.

In Saturday’s lone fixture, Sion Hill extended the trend of come from behind wins, when they stopped North Leeward Predators, 2-1.

A 52nd minute goal from the boot of Gideon Richards sent North Leeward Predators in the lead, but that was short-lived as Dorian Dallaway found the equaliser, two minutes later.

Zenroy Lee scored what turned out to be the winner for Sion Hill in the 73rd minute.

Action return to the Victoria Park on Sunday with a double header.

First up, Awesome beat Largo Height, 3-1.

Dequan Derby scored in the 20th minute for Awesome. Giovanni Johnson drew Largo Height level with a 34th minute goal, but goals by Jori Thorne in the 44th and 69th minutes, ensured Awesome collected the three points.

The final match for the weekend followed the trend when BESCO- Pastures came from behind to go past Je Belle, 2-1.

Zidaine Sam continued where he left off last season with Greiggs, and sent his new club Je Belle

Canouan football gets going in earnest

OWIA FC were crowned champions of the Valley Sports Committee Richland Park Female Football Competition, when they defeated Greggs FC 4 goals to 2, in last Sunday’s final played at Richland Park Playing field.

Diante Delplesche helped herself to a brace and Vinesha Johnson and Ashanti Spring netted one goal each to account for Owia’s score. Akeem Fergus and Jeanie Ashton scored for Greggs FC. Pride and Joy took the third spot when they beat Argo Awesome FC 2 goals to 1, in the third place play-offs. Travisha Diamond and Janece Stephens scored for Pride and Joy while Altica Benn netted for Argo Awesome FC.

THE SVGFF/HAIROUN Beer Canouan Football League got going in earnest last Saturday, November 28, after a formal opening and Soccerama on Sunday, November 22.

In the first of a double header on Saturday, SLYCR/GBC Celtic defeated Mexican Family 1, 41. Goal scorers for SLYCR/GBC Celtic were Alroy Benn, and his brother Terroson Solomon each with a brace. Scorers for Mexican Family 1 were Akeem Williams, 2, and Collin Laidlow, 1.

The second of the double header was called off by referee Dominique Stowe after 33 minutes into the first half. Consistent showers had caused the field to become water logged making play impossible and injuries more likely.

When the match was called off, Soccerama Champs Yard Boyz was leading Mexican Family 2, 5 - 1. For Yard Boyz, Benjamin Williams and Marlon Scribb each had a brace and Cleus Codougan 1. Kenroy Stay converted for Mexican Family 2. The game will continue at a later date.

On Sunday, Yard Boyz humbled home favourites Canouan Utd 5 goals to 2, with goals Benjamin Williams and Marlon Scrubb each scoring a brace once again, and Desron John accounting for the other. Mequan Compton scored both goals for Canouan United. (Source: Dominique Stowe) In the second of the double headers, a clash of the Mexican Families: Mexican Family 1 defeated Mexican Family 2, 6 goals to 3, in front of a large crowd. Scoring for Mexican Family (1) were Akeem Williams who was outstanding with a rare beaver trick (4 goals) and Tevin Griffith and John Hepburn who had one each for the winners. Kenny Stay, 2, and Jamaly Antrobus, 1, replied for Mexican Family (2).

Games will continue this weekend at the Fisheries Sporting Complex, the venue for all matches.

off and running, with a 24th minute goal.

But Jahva Audain inflicted even greater hurt on his former club with two rasping shots with either foot, in the 67th and 85th minutes, to set BESCO- Pastures off and running as round one closed off.

Round Two kicks off this Friday with two matches: Layou takes on Awesome from 6pm; Hope International meets Je Belle at 8pm.

Saturday’s matches pit: Largo Height against BESCO- Pastures from 5pm and Sion Hill versus System Three from 7pm.

The round concludes on Sunday from 6pm when North Leeward Predators and Avenues United rumble.

The ten clubs in the Premier Division will meet one another twice.

Apart from the Premier Division, the championships include a First Division, a Second Division, along with a Female Premier and First Division, a Development Division, along with age group competitions and a Grassroots Competition.

Owia takes Richland Park Football title

Owia FC - Richland Park Female Football Champion.

In the individual awards, handed out after Sunday’s matches, Diante Delplesche of Owia FC shone brightest. She was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Competition and the best Midfielder.

The best defender was Kendra Diante Findlay of Argo Awesome FC and Delplesche was the Competition’s Best - MVP of the Defender, Kimeshia Antoine of tournament.

Pride and Joy was the best goal keeper.

Janila Glasgow of Owia FC received an award for being the top goal scorer. She tallied 7 goals.

There were also awards for Janlia Glasgow the MVP of scored the each team: Kayira Jackson most goals of the tournament. of Agro Awesome FC; Annique Johnson of SVG FC; Janila Glasgow of Owia FC; Janice Stephens of Pride and Joy FC; and Odika Delplesche of Greiggs FC. I.B.A.ALLEN Action in the Richland Park Female Competition.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 25.

Sports

Have it lit WITH THE runway at the E.T. Joshua airport no longer required for its original purpose, the time is right for the Arnos Vale Sports Complex to be provided with flood light. That will fit into the idea of a city at Arnos Vale.

Given this country’s legacy in sport, it is natural that the country is a sport loving one.

The value of a healthy mind and body has been shown, and known and accepted as a platform of national development.

Lighting of other venues have already been echoed, for if there is no urgency on the people’s behalf, matters are allowed to drag on.

The clamour for those at the Sir Vincent Beache National Stadium is not only justified, but is a necessity if the venue is to fulfil its potential as a Carifta Games’ host.

Activities on the local football front are swinging into gear with games at several venues.

New systems and structures have been implemented to ensure stability at the Club level.

While the lights at Victoria Park are acceptable by administrators, there have been grumblings about the quality of those lights in other quarters. With the widespread nature of the sporting facilities, installing and maintaining electricity may prove a burden.

For that reason, Arnos Vale may yet be the best surface for football, until the Sir Vincent Beache is sufficiently fine-tuned.

When the world overcomes the Covid crisis, it will be time to catch up on a series of competitions. World Cup and Gold Cup backlogs have to be cleared and there are those developmental tournaments which serve as reservoirs for the emerging generation.

The local cricket association can persuade the authorities to hasten the lighting of the Arnos Vale venue. The Australian tour, if it happens, can be an incentive.

In any case, with two VPL T/10 tournaments having taken place there in the space of six months, it is no surprise that players are harping for the third edition. The execution helped with an injection of money in a period of economic stagnation.

The way the grounds men acquitted themselves indicated that must have been incentives.

Players enjoyed the prestige the exposure provided and Arnos Vale can only evolve into a centre of heightened sporting activity.

Everything hinges on when or if what was the ‘normal’ returns. There is still reason for caution, but there will be no obstacles to the spontaneous display of Vincentian ingenuity, as the situation warrants.

Creese dominates SVGTT Tournament MICHEL CREESE, of the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy, created history here, when he played in the finals of the three male categories of competition in the SVG Table Tennis Association’s closing tournament for 2020.

He won in two of those categories. He beat Caleb Howard in the finals of Under 15, 11/7, 11/9, and the Under-18, 11/8, 11/8.

His loss was to Damion Dublin in the Senior Division. In the best of three games he took the first 11/9 but went under in the next two 4/11 and 9/11.

Odey Cupid stayed the course Damion Dublin took the seniors title.

Michel Creese won two of his three finals.

Leah Cumberbatch took the female category.

in a closely contested final to eventually see out Kris Ollivierre, 15/13, 12/10, and take the Male Unde-13 title.

Among the females, Leah Cumberbatch of Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy continued to show her superiority when she dispensed with Shanecia Delpesche, 11/6, 14/14, Jessica McCarter, 11/0, 11/14 and Briel Stapleton 11/1, 11/2, to take the Open Female title.

Some eighty persons participated in the event held at the West St. George Secondary School, considered for the time being, the Table Tennis Centre in SVG. Odey Cupid won the I.A.ALLEN Under-13.

Hooper get Volcanoes call-up SVG’S LEG SPINNER Asif Hooper is among three players outside of the Volcanoes contracted pool, who have been called up for a series of practice matches, with a view to selection to the Windward Volcanoes for next year’s regional Super50 Tournament.

Hooper is joined by fast bowler Ray Jordan and batsman Dillon Douglas.

Vincentians already included in the Volcanoes loop are Sunil Ambris, Desron Maloney, Kenneth Dember and Keron Cottoy.

Speaking with Hooper before he departed for a camp in Grenada, the young man who hails from the North Leeward area, said, “When I got the news

I felt very thrilled and overjoyed for this opportunity because I love cricket, and my goal is to play for Windwards and West Indies.”

As for what might have occasioned his call-up, Hooper reasoned, “I think my consistent all-round performance in both VPL1 and 2 and the energy I bring to the game,” would have contributed in that regard.

The young man is not shying away from the challenges associated with his call-up to another level, “I expect excitement but I am always up for a challenge. I will be playing against some of the best cricketers in the region and everyone will be looking to put in good performances and impress the selectors. But I am bent on

Asif Hooper is hoping to make the best of his first call-up to the subregional level. performing to the best of my abilities to show why the selectors added me to the training squad”.

Hooper anticipates that this exposure will add to his knowledge of the game and will also help with his personal development.

I.B.A.ALLEN

TBPO semis, final this weekend NICE RADIO CLINCHERS and C M T Out Ah Trouble, with victories in last weekend remaining quarterfinals, join Hard Hitters and Sunset Strikers in the semifinals of the National Lottery Authority TBPO T20 cricket competition.

In one of the last two quarterfinals, Nice Radio Clinchers took honours on a faster scoring rate over D’s Blocks & Trucking Gomea

Bombers, after rain caused the match to be abandoned and decided on the state of the game at five overs, which constitute a game.

After 5 overs, Clinchers were 28 for 3 while Gomea Bombers were 15 for 2. This after Clinchers batted first and made 107 all out in 16.5 overs, and Gomea Bombers on 22 for 5 in 7 overs when rain halted play.

Out Ah Trouble beat

Sion Hill Tallawah by 8 wickets. Sion Hill Tallawah made 96 in 15 overs, Manley Duncan top scoring with with 35, and Sunil James bagging 5 for 12. Out Ah Trouble reached 102 for 2 in 11.3 overs, Kurton Lavia leading with 31 not out.

The tournament is expected to conclude this weekend when on Saturday from 1:00 p.m Hard Hitters will face

Nice Radio Clinchers and from 3:00 p.m Sunset Strikers will take on C M T Out Ah Trouble in the semi-finals.

On Sunday the third place play off will begin 10:00 a.m followed by the finals at 12:30 p.m, after which the Presentation will take place.

All matches are scheduled for the Dauphne Playing Field.

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 04, 2020. 27.

Classifieds

Woman charged with murder SHEBA LAMISHA CHARLES, a 25-year-old woman of Ashton, Union Island, is on remand awaiting a murder Preliminary Inquiry (PI) set for March 1, 2021.

Charles has been charged with the murder of Ulric Hutchinson, an 83-year-old man of Ashton.

Hutchinson was reportedly strangled during an incident at Ashton on November 26, 2020.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that Charles and Hutchinson had lived together at Ashton.

Charles was not required to plea when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, and was remanded. She was unrepresented. (HH)

NIGEL CHRISTOPHER KING a.k.a. Jal

ALWYN SHALLOW a.k.a. Ouch

LEOPOLD ARCHIBALD a.k.a. Leo

Monday, 30th November, 2020 Apostolic Faith Mission Lowmans hill Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Lowmans Hill Cemetery

Monday, 30th November, 2020 New Testament Church of God Wilson Hill Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery ELROY ULRICK KIRBY a.k.a. Farine Monday, 30th November, 2020 Weslyan Holiness Church Dubois Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Penniston Cemetery

Sunday, 29th November, 2020 S.D.A Church Mesopotamia Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Dumbarton Cemetery

JEFFREY QUAMMIE Saturday, 28th November, 2020 New Testament Church of God Wilson Hill Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

REV IONA ROBERTHA EDWARDS HARRY a.k.a. Mother Harry Saturday, 28th November, 2020 Hope for life Restoration Ministries Church Arnos Vale Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:00 p.m.

Interment: Belair Cemetery

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER

04, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.49

www.thevincentian.com

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HAMLET HAVING SECOND THOUGHTS Tuesday evening, having been referred there after first being treated at the COWDREY HAMLET worked with a Buccament Bay Polyclinic. company as a watchman for the past 12 He was rushed to that Polyclinic years, but conditions and events from his work place at ‘Jill Bay’, an surrounding the job have become a area located in the interior (northern) concern to him. part of the Mt Wynne estate.

A resident of the Central Leeward When relative realised that Town of Layou, Hamlet has endured Patterson had not returned home on his work situation as watchman at a Tuesday morning, an alarm was quarry operation, at the cost of some raised. sacrifice.

Hamlet, Patterson’s work mate who But a tragic incident involving his did not work that night owing to co-worker and which occurred last health reasons, journeyed to the work week Tuesday, November 24, has site in search of his colleague. caused him to have second thoughts When he arrived at the scene of the about continuing in that line of work. crime, Hamlet said he found the That incident is the focus of a police unsightly security booth ransacked, investigation. The police want to with items scattered all over. know how Irwin ‘Charmer’ Patterson His worst fear did not escape him as came to his death. he beheld Patterson gasping for Information from the Police website breath, his body lying face down on the stated that Patterson died at the ground.

Milton Cato Memorial Hospital on Information from the relatives is Stories by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

that Patterson died as a result of wounds to the head.

The main road from which the entrance to ‘Jill Bay’ cuts off is not lit and has no residences. Lands in the vicinity are used for agricultural and livestock rearing purposes. ‘Jill Bay’ is regarded as distant.

Hamlet remarked that the police chided him for his choice of work place, assessing it as a security risk.

In support of that assessment, Hamlet admitted losing personal possessions from ‘action of invaders’ to the compound, as recently as one week before the fatal incident. A report on this was lodged at the Layou Police Station, but that incident now pales against how Patterson met his death.

The discovery has been a traumatic experience for Hamlet but when he Cowdrey Hamlet discovered his cotakes its all into consideration, he breathes a sigh of relief that his illness worker lying face down, with wounds to his head and gasping for breath. might just have saved his life.

WATCHMAN KILLED ON THE JOB INCIDENCES of security personnel losing their lives on the job are becoming frequent in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In June this year, 56year-old Henry Neverson met his demise at the Windsor Primary School, located adjacent to the southern entrance of the

Irwin Patterson joined the list of security personnel who have been the victims of fatal attacks.

Botanical Gardens.

Rodney George, a 50year-old Victoria Village man was found dead in the washroom of a tyre shop where he worked, Saturday, September 1, 2018.

Brenda Layne, a 48year-old Chauncey woman had just finished her shift and was walking towards the bus stop in Kingstown August 22, 2018, when she was attacked from behind and stabbed.

Nearly six months after the Neverson incident, Irwin ‘Charmer’ Patterson, a 69-year-old resident of the Central Leeward town of Layou, became the nation’s 27th murder victim for the year.

Patterson was employed as a watchman at a quarry in the Mt. Wynne area. About 3:30 p.m on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, his co-worker discovered him faced down gasping

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

for breath at his work site, and summoned the police from the Barrouallie Police Station.

Patterson, originally from the North Leeward district of Fitz Hughes, settled in Layou after his marriage in 1986.

His stepson, Reynold John, whose mother died May 23, 2012, recalled making arrangements to have some plumbing done at the residence they occupied in Layou.

Patterson’s granddaughter Lanny John recounted the panic sparked when he did not return from work that Tuesday morning, November 24.

A visit to his work site unveiled his bludgeoned body, with visible and telling signs of wounds to his head.

Patterson’s death sent shock in the area compounded by the mystery surrounding the incident.

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