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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

JANUARY 05, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.01

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Thaddeus Michael Findlay.

Some of the abandoned equipment left to ruin under the Frankie Thomas pavilion.

SPORTS AMBASSADOR and former manager of the National Sports Council - Thaddeus Michael Findlay and current President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc., Dr Kishore Shallow, have openly expressed their disappointment with the upkeep of this country’s premier

sporting facility - the Arnos Vale One Playing Field.

They used the outlet of last Saturday’s Annual General Meeting of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc., (SVGCA), held at the President’s Suite at the said Arnos Vale facility, to vent their feelings.

Findlay, a life member of the SVGCA, stated: “That (Arnos Vale Playing Field) needs (a) major overhaul now ... It (has) happened because the (National) Sports Council was very negligent in upkeeping the playing field... I want to suggest, that the Cricket Association, that you

The Arnos Vale Playing Field is a common venue for non- sporting activities, as shown here.

all put pressure on the Sports Council to do a better job.”

Findlay, who was chair of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), which was responsible for the upgrade of the Arnos Vale One and Two playing fields, along with those at Stubbs and Sion Hill, for the hosting of warm- up matches in preparation for World Cup 2007 in the Caribbean, noted that systems were put in place to ensure maintenance.

He affirmed that under his tenure, “every conceivable,” piece of equipment for the facilities’ upkeep was procured, except for those “which were not invented as yet.”

Findlay added that a manual was provided then to be used to upkeep, but which

President of the SVGCA Inc. Kishore Shallow. was seemingly never followed.

A concerned Findlay quipped, “You can put as much lights, to light up heaven”, but posited that restorative work to address the conditions of the playing surface is paramount above the lighting of Arnos Vale One. Continued on Page 3.

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2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Service

Trinity faculty and staff felled aged tree The remains of the felled avocado tree at the Trinity School of Medicine (TSOM) campus.

Dr. Linda Adkinson, Dean of TSOM, showing off her skillful use of the chain saw.

ON THURSDAY, 14th December, the Dean and some members of staff of Trinity School of Medicine (TSOM) chose to fell a large avocado tree that had been on the campus ground for a number of years.

According to Dean, Dr. Linda Adkinson, “The tree had been pushed over many years ago in a storm. It had also become a mature tree and often at maturity, trees no longer produce fruit in abundance. It was not producing very many avocados, and those that grew were very small.”

On the designated day, Dean Adkinson with some groundsmen and members of the housekeeping staff who had volunteered to participate in the tree cutting exercise, took to the campus grounds

armed with a chain saw.

Most of the volunteers had a ‘crash course’ there and then in the use of the saw, but Dean Adkinson, on the other hand, proved quite au fait with the workings of the machine and led the way early, with the cutting of several troublesome branches.

Housekeeping Supervisor, Ms. Vilma Glasgow, explained her experience as, “I never used a chain saw before, and never imagined I would use one: but I volunteered to do some cutting because I wanted the experience. From the time I put the saw to the tree branch, it ran so smooth that I just felt I could continue on and on.

When the branch fell to the ground, it was a great accomplishment.”

Volunteers removed the branches to a ‘safe’ location for transportation to the CWSA chipmaking and composting facility.

The Dean noted that the decision to cut down the tree had come after much consideration. “The other thing is, it had developed disease; this was obvious in the leaves,” she acknowledged, “I learned that the only way to get rid of that is to spray it either every week or every other week: but because of its size it was difficult. For a number of reasons, it was okay to cut it down. We’ve already planted new trees to replace this one, and I have others that I can bring in. We live in paradise here; we should plant and eat everything!”

TSOM was actually on the right track concerning

the cutting down of the tree. Diseased trees can create structural problems that eventually compromise the tree’s integrity. Before cutting a tree, one should make sure its location does not compromise any nearby buildings; examine the leaves, branches and bark for disease or fungus. All of these boxes were checked.

The felled avocado tree was not ‘wasted’. Director of Physical Operations, Ms. Amoy Munroe, outlined the next step in the process. “A felled tree is put to good use when it is recycled,” she stated, “We’re working along with the Central Water and

One tree comes down, another takes root in its place.

Sewerage Authority (CWSA) to make sure that we do our part to protect the environment.”

She explained that the CWSA makes wood chips and does composting.

These are available for distribution throughout the island. “So, the tree will be sent to the CWSA to be made into wood chips. The leaves will be used for composting.”

Ms. Munroe also disclosed that the (tree) initiative was in keeping with a project started at Trinity. “We’ve started a recycling project here called ‘Trinity Recycles’,”

she explained. “We are now collecting plastic and glass bottles, and to a smaller extent, any other product that can be recycled.”

‘Trinity Recycles’ began in the fall semester of 2017, as an initiative of a number of students.

Receptacles have now been posted in different locations where persons are encouraged to recycle.

Faculty and staff continue to work together to ensure a safe and aesthetically appealing environment for all at Trinity.

SVG JCI ready to face New Year challenges

by GLORIAH...

THE NEW YEAR 2018 has met the St. Vincent and the Grenadines

SVG JCI 2018 Executive (From left): Shaquille Lewis (Secretary), Shanniese Stewart (Vice President), Gabriel Glasgow (President), Ricky Haynes (Executive Vice President) and Keithaa James (Immediate Past President).

Chapter of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) quite prepared for all the possibilities that exist for engendering positive change among citizens of this country.

Newly elected President Ms. Gabriel Glasgow put the mission of the organization in this way: “To continue the legacy of the JCI movement and to fulfil our aim to be the leading global network of young active citizens in creating positive change.”

She stressed that it is the intention of her organization to broaden the scope of the JCI visibility through but not exclusive to increasing membership through extensive marketing and public relations.

Moreover, Ms. Glasgow, spoke of increasing partnerships with various entities and community outreach groups, with the intention “of developing and executing sustainable projects that are linked to the United Nations Development Goals of helping to eradicate poverty, hunger, the lack of proper access to health care

services and inequalities.”

At the organization’s Annual Award and Installation Ceremony held on Saturday 15th December,Iimmediate Past-President, Ms. Keithaa James, in entrusting the leadership into the expert hands of the new president, gave recognition to those who had worked assiduously towards achieving the 2017 goals of the organization.

That ceremony was also addressed by JCI West Indies National President, Mr. Kwesi DesVignes.

Focusing on the 2018 theme of ‘Merging Vision with Mission to synergize Action’, Mr. DesVignes reminded the SVG Chapter that “JCI is a global organization of volunteers that creates development opportunities through community services, and empowers young active citizens to create positive changes in our society.”

He encouraged the members to recommit themselves to the

mission/goals of JCI with a renewed passion and to make use of the opportunity to develop, take ownership and be accountable for bringing about positive change in their communities.

Those installed as executive members for 2018 were: President, Gabriel Glasgow — President; Ricky Haynes — Executive Vice President; Shanniese Stewart - Vice President; Shaquille Lewis Secretary.

Keithaa James will also serve on the Executive as Immediate Past President.

In addition to awards to outstanding members, a number of business/service entities were recognized for their partnership with SVGJCI. Among these were: the Vector Control Unit; Digicel; M.A.S.A; Health Solution Inc.; STEM SVG; All Smiles Dental Centre; The Beachmont Eye Institute; National Aids Secretariat; and the Planned Parenthood Association.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 3.

News 3 $301.8m owed in taxes

GOVERNMENT INTENDS to take the relevant measures in order to recover the EC$301.8 million owed in taxes.

The issue of tax arrears was raised by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves on Tuesday, during a press conference he hosted.

He said it — outstanding taxes - was something that the government intended to address very seriously.

“You know you get a lot of talk about how much the government owes the private sector…[but]we must ensure that we pay what we owe on a timely basis,” Dr. Gonsalves told members of the media.

Of the total figure, Dr. Gonsalves indicated that EC$177.4 million was the base amount owed on all types of taxes; EC$26.8 million was the amount owed in penalties and EC$97.5 million was the interest owed.

“When you owe the government, the interest is 1.5 percent per month, so it suits you, if you owe taxes, to make arrangements to deal with that because if you have to

deal with the tax man, it can squeeze you extraordinarily,” he said.

The arrears under the category corporation taxes amounted to EC$85 million; personal income taxes EC$28.5 million and withholding tax, EC$5.2 million.

There were also arrears under the category of property taxes. However, Dr. Gonsalves said the Inland Revenue Department did not provide the amount owed.

The issue of owing taxes was one for concern to Gonsalves, but he singled out the amount owed to government for Value Added Tax — EC$34.3 million being the base, EC$22.8 million and EC$11.5 million being the penalties and interest owed respectively.

The other category of concern was the amount owed under P.A.Y.E (Pay As You Earn) which amounted to just over EC$24 million.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, VAT money was what he termed as ‘trust money’, “that

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves gave a detailed account of taxes owed to government, and issued an early warning that intensified efforts will be made to collect on this debt. is money the consumer pays and you collect and then pass on.”

“In other words, you are keeping the money already paid to you from the government. People pay VAT and expect that it is paid over in accordance with the law,” Gonsalves explained.

Moneys owed to the government for PAYE was something similar, he continued, in that employers deduct workers’ contribution which is not turned over to the government.

“And when you have several people doing so, it adds up,” he said.

Estimates set for Jan. 29 THE 2018 ESTIMATES of Income and Expenditure will be presented and debated in Parliament on Monday, January 29.

Prime Minister and former Minister of Finance Dr Ralph Gonsalves said further, at a press briefing on Tuesday, that the Budget (Appropriation Bill) will be presented on Monday, February 5.

Camillo Gonsalves, who was recently charged with the portfolio of Finance, will table the 2018 Appropriation Bill.

Parliament approved EC$976,943,437 — or a 7 percent Camillo Gonsalves will increase over the 2016 figure for make his maiden budget expenditure last year. presentation, in his No indication was given with capacity as Minister of respect to what Vincentians can Finance, when Parliament expect in this year’s budget. (DD) meets on February 5.

But there were also adverse consequences for the employee as well when the individual files their personal tax return.

“So I want to assure everybody that it is a matter that the government is going to deal with vigorously.”

The Prime Minister said

that he has constantly been saying to the authorities at the Inland Revenue Department that they ought to be more focused on collecting taxes, and although measures are taken to collect moneys owed, more needs to be done.

(DD)

Sports officials dissatisfied can fixture a premier division game at Stubbs Adding his piece, right now.”

Shallow The government commented: “I am of St Vincent and very disappointed the Grenadines had with the pitch here spent in excess of at Arnos Vale … It EC$ 56 million in has deteriorated the upgrade of the over the years and aforementioned we need to address playing fields, with it as well.”

Arnos Vale One He added, “We taking the biggest need to address the chunk. issue of pitches and Among the grounds in the upgrades done to country generally the Arnos Vale One … We have Sion Playing Field was a Hill, we need to redo of the outfield, bring back inclusive of a Stubbs… Look at making it sandthe state of Stubbs based. … I don’t think we Additionally, a Continuedf from Front Page.

new players pavilion, the erection of a double- decker stand and the President’s Suite were some of the significant infrastructural improvements made.

It was recently made public, that another $100 million may be spent on the lighting of Arnos Vale One, now that the ET Joshua airport, which runs adjacent, was decommissioned on February 14, 2017.

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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Man caught with cocaine at Mustique function grams of marijuana.

Senior Magistrate Bertie Pompey handed A 40-YEAR-OLD down the penalties after Redemption Sharpes man, Gibson pleaded guilty to who was found in both charges. possession of cocaine and The Court heard that marijuana during a New on the night in question, Year’s Day function hosted Martin Findlay, by the Mustique Company performing Security at Basil’s Bar on that Guard duties at the Grenadine island, was function and acting on fined a total of $700 on information received, Wednesday. approached and asked Allan Gibson was Gibson if he was selling ordered to pay the Court drugs. Gibson replied $500 in one month or that he was not, but if four months in prison for patrons wanted, he could possession of three grams supply. of cocaine with intent to A search was supply, and $200 in one conducted of his person month or on three revealing three months for having six transparent packages of Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

cocaine, and seven white packages containing marijuana, as well as EC$735, 200 Euros, 250 pounds and US$660.

He was handed over to the police, and the charges were laid.

In mitigation, Gibson’s lawyer Grant Connell told the Court that his client was not selling drugs that night; someone had given him the package to hold. He noted that Gibson was the father of two children, and the sole breadwinner of the family.

Connell added that Gibson was employed in Mustique for the past 22

years, doing various jobs, including construction work, and at the time of his arrest, was employed at the Mustique Great House as a gardener.

The attorney expressed the view that a black man working in Mustique for such a long period says a lot about his character. He noted, however, that given the modus operandi on that island, once an allegation of a criminal nature is made against someone, especially if they are local, they will lose their job, and asked to leave the island, even before being brought before a Court of Law.

Lawyer outraged over absent drug exhibits ATTORNEY Grant Connell is of the view that the lackadaisical approach of the police to exhibits of control drugs could lead to their disappearance, and “We have to be mindful that not all police officers are genuine policemen.”

Connell was making the point to THE VINCENTIAN following a drug related case at the

Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday in which the exhibits were absent, but turned up after the Court was stood down for a few minutes to await their arrival.

Connell had represented the accused Allan Gibson, 40, of Redemption Sharpes, who had pleaded guilty to possession of three grams of cocaine with

John performing duties as Acting COP UP TO PRESS time Thursday morning, Colin John was performing the duties of Acting Commissioner of Police.

However, when contacted by THE VINCENTIAN, John said that, to date, he had not received any official documentation with regard to his position.

Outgoing Acting Commissioner of Police Renold Colin John Hadaway confirmed to THE returned to VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, duty as a police that he handed over the officer in leadership of the Royal St. August 2016, Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) to John, when he was on proceeding on pre-retirement made Deputy Commissioner leave on Tuesday. of Police Speaking with THE (Acting).

VINCENTIAN last week, via telephone, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves confirmed that John would succeed Hadaway. He explained that the chain of command in the Police Force will be followed, and the next person (after Hadaway) in that chain was the then Acting Deputy Commissioner, Colin John.

John has taken up duties at the Commissioner’s Office, and confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN that he was performing the duties of Acting Commissioner.

intent to supply, Attorney as well as having Grant six grams of Connell marijuana. did not Gibson was sugarcoat found in his feeling possession of the about a drugs on the certain Southern lapse by Grenadines island police of Mustique on officers.

January 1, during a function the Mustique Company was having at Basil’s Bar. During his mitigation plea, Connell asked for Court resumed, Connell the exhibits, but told Senior Magistrate prosecutor Constable Bertie Pompey that the Curlene Samuel prosecutor said she informed the Court that contacted the exhibit a police officer had keeper, during the break. already left with them.

“She now call the Connell was outraged, exhibit keeper. Am I to describing the act as believe that the exhibits contempt of Court. were never before the “I am dealing with a court? Is this the way matter, the Court has the prosecution is not yet made an order treating this Court, and an officer leaves because the matter is with the exhibits,” from Mustique?” Connell Connell blurted. He questioned. noted that the “Maybe they were prosecution did not even anticipating a not guilty have the courtesy of plea,” the Senior allowing the Court or the Magistrate replied. defence to see the “You don’t anticipate exhibits, and contended justice,” Connell that this was at variance contended. with normal procedure.

“The exhibits are He questioned whether here,” Prosecutor Samuel this action came because then told the Court, and it was a Mustique produced the exhibits, matter, adding that, which had just arrived.

“What is for the rich, Pompey contended must also be for the that the exhibits should poor.” have been before the The Court was then Court, unless they were stood down in order to of a very large quantity, have the exhibits such as a truck-load. produced.

However, when the

Connell pointed out that according to this country’s constitution, a person is entitled to a fair trial, but when you work in Mustique, it is like French law, “You are guilty before proven innocent.”

Connell noted that the street value of the marijuana would be about EC$18, but said he had no knowledge as to the street value of the cocaine, as it was not grown or created locally.

He highlighted the fact his client had pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity and had not wasted the court’s time. He asked the court to impose a fine so that his client could return to “the straight and narrow.”

The Senior Magistrate took into account Gibson’s early guilty plea, that he had no previous convictions, and that it was quite likely that he would lose his job, but contended that from the way the drugs were packaged, the court found it easy to assume that they were packaged for peddling.

Prosecutor Inspector Curlene Samuel had indicated that the prosecution was withdrawing its

Allan Gibson may have benefited from a strong mitigation plea by his lawyer. application for the confiscation of the money found in Gibson’s possession, as the cash was handed over to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). This prompted Connell to ask the prosecutor, rhetorically, “You making an application for something that is not in your possession/” Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN later, Connell said sarcastically, “It is good to see that the security of Mustique has rid the island of all the cocaine. I hope the authorities will do the same on mainland St. Vincent, since many of the addicts here could be seen on the streets of Kingstown struggling to maintain the habit, because cocaine is not a drug for the poor.”

First murder charge for 2018 laid DIAMONDS villager Berisford ‘Burgo’ Williams is the first person to be charged with murder for 2018.

Berisford The 33-year-old farmer was taken ‘Burgo’ before the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, charged with murder Williams of Andell Muckett, 38, of Diamonds.

Williams is also charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Jesgil Leteen, 33-year-old domestic of Diamonds.

Reports are that Muckett, also a farmer, was shot in the head and left leg, while the woman was beaten in the head with a gun, during an incident at Diamonds around 7 pm on December 24.

Muckett was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he died.

Williams was not required to plea to the charges when he stood before Senior Magistrate Bertie Pompey. The matter was adjourned to January 8 and transferred to the Serious Offences Court.

Attorney Grant Connell is representing Williams who has been remanded.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 5.

Regional

Antigua moving towards relaxing laws on marijuana use

Antigua is the latest CARICOM member to move towards decriminalising the use of ‘small’ quantities of cannabis/marijuana.

(Credit: wakingtimes.com) from the public at large, draw fines amounting to treatment or drug counselling programmes medical doctors, users no more than $1,500. when found in possession and religious groups The bill gives the among other concerned of cannabis’. minister the power to parties.

The Observer also make regulations for Meanwhile, High violation tickets that will quoted Attorney General Priest Selah of the Steadroy ‘Cutie’ be issued for a second Benjamin as saying that Nyabinghi Theocracy offence, after a warning Church of Rastafari in the ‘cost of pursuing for the first violation. convictions for such tiny Antigua lauded the A third and overall move by the amounts is very subsequent violation government as a expensive, and the would draw fines “stepping stone”, though, intention is also to amounting to no more the Observer reported, he prevent young people than $1,500. expressed dissatisfaction Even more significant from getting criminal records that impede their with the quantum being is that the Bill provides decriminalised. employment for the expungement of Cannabis/marijuana is opportunities and travel convictions prior to the used in religious visas’. passage of the Bill, for ceremonies of the The Misuse of Drugs offences involving 10 Rastafarian faith. Its use grammes of marijuana or Amendment Bill was in those circles is informed by the report Groundings are religious ceremonies that involve a gathering of Rastafarians less. considered a “sacrament.” compiled after a serious According to the under an elder. These ceremonies often include music, chanting, drumming, of consultations, which Antigua Observer (Primary Source: Antigua and the consumption of cannabis/marijuana. (Credit: captainosis mbushii) received submissions newspaper of December Observer) 30, 2017, the government 10 grammes of THE MISUSE OF DRUGS other places as the of Antigua and Barbuda Amendment Bill, expected cannabis/marijuana. minister may designate.

The Bill, however, to go before the Lower The Bill also empowers views the passage of the Bill as being pivotal to places certain House of Parliament in the minister to make the effort to ‘protect the restrictions. For Antigua and Barbuda regulations for the livelihood and future of example, the use of sometime this month, issuing of violation young persons under the January 2018, will make it cannabis is prohibited in tickets for a second age of 18, by requiring lawful for a person over 18 public places such as offence, after a warning A REPORT CREDITED such persons to schools, places of years to have in his for the first violation. A TO CMC, December 30, participate in drug possession a maximum of entertainment and such third violation would 2017, state that the embattled Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) was not in A BILL ENTITLED magnitude without first a position to honour its AMENDMENTS to the consulting with the payments of royalties to its Police Act 2017, which people of Barbados’. members scheduled for the makes provision for He also informed that final quarter of this year. police inspectors to meeting, as reported by “Several reconciliation cordon off areas for no Barbados Today, that the actions must be completed more than eight hours Opposition only received before any such during which people details of the measure on distributions can be made, Martin James, ECCO within the cordoned area the night before it was and the reality is, the Chairman, promised must refrain from any originally scheduled to be process has been well a speedy return to activity, is proving debated. established and cannot be normalcy at ECCO, uncomfortable for the The Bill was originally bypassed,” ECCO which would facilitate Opposition Barbados scheduled to be debated Chairman, Martin James the payment, albeit Labour Party (BLP). on December 19, but was said, in a video posted on late, of last quarter The BLP has accused later pushed back for the social media. payment of royalties. the Democratic Labour Parliament’s resumption Dale Marshall, the Prime Minister Freundel James said the process (Credit: Party Government of after the Christmas Opposition (BLP) Stuart, already under is likely to be completed stluciatimes.com) wanting ‘to rush through break. spokesman on legal the strain of hard

by January 10, next year, legislation to increase The Bill, additionally, affairs, led the charge economic times in his following which payments police powers, but could gives powers to the against the Barbados country, moves into a can then be processed by month end. potentially encroach on Commissioner of Police government’s intention year when general “This unfortunate occurrence is unavoidable at Barbadians’ civil to use cordons and to hand increased elections are this time, and as such, the board would like to liberties’, Barbados curfews if he deems them power to the police. assure all its members that measures are constitutionally due by Today News reported on necessary to protect life currently being implemented to ensure that this is (Credit: Barbados May 2018. (Credit: December 30. and property of citizens, Labour Party) never repeated,” James said. caribbean360) Dale Marshall, the or protect public order.

Earlier this month, ECCO announced the BLP’s spokesman on Marshall, a former December 29. proposed therein should dismissal of the chief executive officer, Steve legal affairs, told a attorney general, He conceded that the have been ventilated in Etienne, following an investigation into the recent meeting of party suggested that the matter of gun-related public before being financial operations of the organisation. supporters that ‘it was measure appeared to be violence and deaths was hastened to the In October, Etienne, who had been involved baffling as to why the Government’s response a serious matter and one Parliament. with ECCO for nearly two decades, was sent on 30 Freundel Stuart to the outbreak of gun from which political Barbados recorded its days leave with pay, while a detailed review of the administration was in violence, which has points should not be 23rd shooting death for operations was undertaken. such a hurry to introduce resulted in 23 of the 30 scored, and repeated that 2017 on Boxing Day. The Secretariat of ECCO is located in St. Lucia legislation of this murders committed up to the Bill and measures (Source: Barbados Today) of which Etienne is a national. (Source: CMC)

ECCO’s payment of royalties postponed

Barbadian government under fire again

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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 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

The Budget - Fun and Speculation IT IS NOT OUR POLITICAL CULTURE to leak anything that might be included in the country’s budget.

If you ask a minister of government for an indication of ‘things to come’ — whether it be specific to an area of government endeavor, or something mote macro and overarching - you’re better off asking a blank wall.

Ministers of government, moreso ministers of finance, have been traditionally tight-lipped in the runup to the Budget presentation.

Can anyone imagine what might be the case here if a news agency got an early thumbs-up on ‘things to come’ and aired it for the public’s attention?

That is why, given our political culture that is mired in tradition when it serves us, the ordinary taxpaying citizen, even the big and small businessmen and women, providing they don’t have an inside political track, are wont to speculate.

Here is a bit of that ‘serious’ speculation, here, there and everywhere, as we head into 2018.

Monthly salaried workers should not expect any ease in the personal income tax regime to which they are obligated. Government can ill-afford to take a chance on easing the ordinary worke,r even as they hope to collect from those who profit because of their spending.

But may be, just may be, we might see a lessening of the tax relief and allowances that the high earners can claim as a proportion of their income.

This is not likely in an election year, you say? Who said 2018 is an election year?

We could see a tightening of the loopholes that allow the rich to circumvent certain duties by purchasing properties through companies, registered here and abroad.

If the Minister of Finance wakes up on his better side, he just might consider tabling some transitional arrangements to help families where only one parent works. That too is a gem for an election year, but has the potential to roll over into ensuing years.

Don’t expect any further tampering with duties and taxes as they apply to alcohol, even as it appears, local consumption has increased tenfold alongside an ongoing contraband trade of which local, legal importers

sound an incessant note of concern.

Then again, this clearly noticeable increase in alcohol consumption as the ‘drinking’ proportion of the population expands, could well be an encouragement for a (fiscal) measure aimed at capitalizing on the revenue that beckons.

And what of all the talk of entrepreneurship and the building of a small business sector? Lookout for some measure of assistance for the start-up of small business, to appease the overly excited techno-savvy young people. After all, we are obligated to address their expectations, or else…. .

But while this happens, and is advanced as a leg in our journey into the world of technology that drives economies across the globe, it is unlikely that agriculture will receive any genuine attention so as to resituate it as a major contributor to the GDP. In fact, that sector, which is still buoyed by the involvement of thousands of our people, will continue to play second fiddle to the drive to create a service-oriented economy, which apparently is more attractive to foreign investment.

And on the matter of foreign investment — direct or otherwise — fiscal measures/incentives will continue unabated, even expanded, to accommodate the option in favour of developing the tourism sector., failing to honestly position the agriculture sector as an integral part of the overall tourism industry.

On that score, it may yet be early in the innings, but we cannot omit for our speculations, that coming this year or soon thereafter, could be a levy of sorts - some kind of permutation — aimed at assisting with the running cost of the Argyle International Airport.

Against all of the dos and the don’ts, expect that the Minister of Finance will forecast positive economic growth for 2018, simultaneous with a pledge to advance government’s reforms so as to make it easier for developers to build on greenfield sites.

No! No! No government in its right mind would dare think of legislating any adjustments in the payment/deduction scheme of the NIS. You crazy or what?

But the safest speculation of all is that there will be a surprise announced on Budget Day.

Jomo stars in a starless night DR. RALPH GONSALVES took all of two hours and a half to sing his swan song to the people, having come out, so to speak, after somewhat over a wintry house confinement caused by an ailment.

The speech was delivered firstly to show that he remained in fine fettle, to chart the trajectory of the coming Budget which would be handled by his replacement as Minister of Finance, his son Camillo who he expects to be the next leader when he resigns just before or after the forty-first postLenten Carnival, the fan-fare will form the centre-piece of the coronation.

The Court of Appeal may rule the election petition in favour of the NDP, triggering off new elections, which I predict will be won by the NDP 11:4, assuming that there were some vital changes in the entire election process, so help me God. Strangely, in his talkothon, Dr. Gonsalves alluded to many events, especially the Argyle International Airport which will answer our problem in the medium term. He went on next to deal with the crime situation and the vexed sore point of crime within the CID office, which apparently creates rather than solves crimes.

Pursuit of this issue logically entailed management, and the PM dealt with the need to appoint a strong and firm disciplinarian to replace Ronald Hadaway, who has retired as acting Deputy Commissioner. Word is out that the man is likely to be Colin John. .

The crux of the matter is that, often in their choice, the ULP administration chooses persons for critical positions, based solely on their proximity in thinking to that of the ruling regime. I wrote critically of the selection of three of the state’s chief guardians of our democracy. The damage brought upon our State by Collin Williams DPP, Blazer Williams chairman of the PSCs, and Hendrickson Alexander, is simply incalculable! Any dossier of the ills reverberated by these wise men at work would be shocking in the extreme.

And the problems, if not handled with studied care, seem endemic to little two by four islets with overambitious, political tin-gods, too big

for their boots. Take the case of Alexander. He served the country as Speaker for 3 terms.

Then the Government sought to solve the problem by replacing him with Jomo Thomas who, though eminently qualified for the post, imported into the scene some worrying attributes In a sense, Jomo’s position is untenable. He is a member of the ULP whose votes made him speaker but, in the peculiar circumstances cannot remove him. Rightly or not, he asserts his authority in the House, standing up to the challenges of Ralph himself who is not known to bow to “underlings”.

Jomo’s interesting biography to date reads: brought up under UPM in 1979 with its three leaders Parnell Campbell, Renwick Rose and Dr. Gonsalves.

Member of depleted UPM minus PDM and MNU 1982 headed by breaking away Ralph and two former associates Blazer Williams and Caspar London and, later by Robert FitzPatrick.

In 1982, attended the Grenada Revolution Anniversary celebration.

Left the country for studies in the USA, covering the decade 1988-1998.

Always remained in touch with Ralph whose MNU had linked with Labour to form ULP after 1994. Lost in 1998 but won in 2001 boosted by other victories, lasting up to the present moment.

For years, I had repeatedly warned Jomo against joining ULP. Come into my parlour, said the spider to the fly. I told Jomo, there was no room for him in that inn. He just does not belong. I suppose that he is now experiencing the feeling of being alone in a crowd.

Jomo has been left to ponder his own future. If the court case goes against the ULP, the NDP will gain government in ensuing elections and, knowing the calibre of NDP leadership, Jomo will no doubt be encouraged to contribute his talents to the development of the country.

In the unlikely event that the ULP stretches its existence to a full life, Jomo has only his legal skills, some of which have already considerably weakened the ULP. Happy New Year to all, including the Ex-Prime Minister, reminding the “EX” is an all-powerful prefix.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 7.

Letters

In praise of Dr. John I MUST PRAISE Dr Kenneth John as a great analyst and illustrator of the truth in politics. His article ‘The Last Of The Mohicans’ of December 29, was quite simply honest and truthful of the realization of the facts regarding Dr Ralph E Gonsalves.

He did what should have been done a long time ago, and he has done it without any reference to what one may describe as the dark past of the man: how he was made persona non grata in a number of countries; how he was mentioned in Jamaican parliament for his part in the Rodney Affair riots; how he was helping Maurice Bishop with his Marxist revolution in Grenada.

No mention of the near past, rape or sexual assault allegations, nothing, not even a mention of sexy phone calls; no mention of ALBA, Cuba or Iran; neither that of the failed airport project, with no real accounting to the public.

No nasty stuff - Dr John is far too clever (and careful) for that. He needs none of that nasty stuff, he is a master of the pen. What a star turn.

So, thank you, Dr John, and I wish you well in the onslaught against you for being so nicely outspoken. The truth is so annoying to some.

Jolly Green

Guns for Christmas???

WHILE DOING some Christmas shopping at a store in Kingstown, I couldn’t help overhearing an adult male telling a little boy – I am not going to assume he was the man’s son – that he was not going to get a gun, PERIOD! I thought, at first, that the man was being not just simpleton but unkind, given that children look forward at Christmas to receiving ‘gifts’ that they truly want and can enjoy.

In the midst of the man insisting that he was not going to buy the gun, he blurted: “Yo tink I wah you tun out to be some bandit goin round shooting up people when you come big man?”

It was then that I

thought: may be the man has a point. A gun — regardless if it is a plastic toy, a water gun or one that shoots darts — is meant to be pointed at an object with the intent to discharge whatever (dart, pellet, water) in the direction of that object, hoping to hit it if not put in down. In the case of today’s world, it’s a case of that object being another person.

But why should it matter? In my boyhood days we had guns — even if we had to make wooden ones. We played ‘Cowboys and Indians’ and ‘Police and Thief’, shooting up one another like crazy.

But some sober, further reflection spoke

The profoundest evaluator of our political mentality WHEN THE HISTORY of SVG politics is written, our greatest politician and Prime Minister will feature in every chapter and episode of the book and documentary.

But he would be shadowed all the way by

Elwardo (EG) Lynch, the profoundest evaluator of our political mentality.

E.G. Lynch must be credited for bringing out the worst of our greatest politician.

The Prime Minister is responsible for law, order and disorder in SVG

while in power, so he must answer for the shameful, disgraceful, disgusting behavior shown by citizens at the funeral of E.G. Lynch.

Never seen anything like this during a religious gathering in St. Vincent.

The Prime Minister has a lot of questions to answer.

Did he apologise to Lynch’s family who so graciously invited him to the funeral?

Chrispo

CDW statement on violence in the society - Stop it!! Set us free THE INCIDENCE of violence in all its forms, continues to both stalk and strike all sectors of our population — children, youth, fathers, mothers, relatives, friends and wider public. This cloak of pain must be lifted. It is time to Stop it, and set us all free.

In making this Statement, the Committee for the Development of Women (CDW)draws heavily on the circumstances surrounding the death of the 29-year old woman. First she is reputed to dance naked when drunk — a clear sign of someone in need of help, whose dangerous condition was not addressed until she died.

Second, the alleged perpetrator is 51years old with a 38-year old son and school age daughters.

The ages are not the problem, it is the son’s lament that if his father is convicted, who will take care of his Sisters, and his compassion for the woman, younger than him, and dying at such a young age!

Third, the friend eulogises the victim as this very nice girl, except when she drinks, yet she was powerless to do anything about it. However it was this friend, using the opportunity provided by the Media, who made

a profound appeal to the potential male perpetrators in the society to “Stop It — Set us Free”.

It is a message to pay attention to, for the alleged perpetrator’s son has clearly shown us all the additional victims. The CDW, motivated by the wording and strength of this appeal, calls to mind the strong message sent by a Justice of the High Court in February of 2015, when she dealt with a case of attempted murder, and I quote from THE VINCENTIAN: “High Court Judge Kathy Ann Latchoo on Monday sent a strong message to the perpetrators or would be perpetrators of violence against women, when she handed down a 20-year sentence: ‘The incidence of violence against women in our communities has become a serious problem, and the court must attempt to curtail this by its sentencing policies. Unless it does so, the perpetrators of violence against women may very well believe that they have a licence to do so unimpeded. Our sentencing policy must necessarily be directed at changing behaviour, especially those abhorrent to human decency.’

“Justice Latchoo stressed, ‘Violence in domestic relations

damages not only the victim and the immediate family, but the country as a whole, since every nation stands on the foundation blocks of families. It is hoped that schools, churches, NGOs, youth clubs, associations and other groups get involved in the fight against violence against women, to confront the very real problem instead of ignoring it or blaming the victim.’ The Judge recognized that sentencing is part of the solution.”

When considered in conjunction with the Judge’s statement of hope, the Friend’s call is a wake- up call to all of us to do our part to STOP IT. It is time to stop ignoring it or blaming the Victim. The ”It” is the violence in the society, and women’s NGOs can share the responsibility to STOP IT!! Rise up Women- the entire country needs to be set free, and we can do our part — Let us return to the work of intervention and prevention in our communities.

Let us put this ancient Chinese proverb to the test - “When sleeping Women Awake, Mountains will move!!”

Nelcia Robinson Coordinator CDW

to me about the many, many influences that bear down on a young mind today, that were non-existent in my time.

The movies, the televisions, the music, all glamourize violence (especially gun violence) and sex; not to mention the world of drugs.

So, when I retreated to the comfort of my home, a home that has raised two children, I quietly apologised to myself for having thought that that male adult, who refused to buy that gun for that little boy, was being simpleton and unkind.

To the contrary, he was doing the right thing.

Hats off to those fathers who have taken a similar stand.

It’s what we do today

that will determine tomorrow’s world.

A happy New Year to you, Mr. Editor, and your staff.

Godwin Thomas, Kingstown

Trump divides us

A HAPPY New Year to you, and sincere wishes for continued success and good health to you, Mr. Editor, and the management and staff of THE VINCENTIAN. I am firm in my belief that THE VINCENTIAN continues to be the most responsible newspaper in SVG. As we close one year and open another, I continue to be entertained by our CARICOM leaders. My latest bit of comedy came courtesy of our vote at the UN, on the issue of the US decision — or should I say Trump’s decision — to move that country’s embassy to Jerusalem.

Before the move, the world heard from Trump: ‘Don’t vote for me and you’ll see what happens to you’.

Like headless chickens, all but Guyana, Suriname, Belize, Barbados, Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines either abstained or did not vote. Is it that those who abstained or did not vote were frightened into doing so by Trump’s threat to ‘deal with’ them if they voted against the US decision?

THIS is not the first time that CARICOM has shown differences of opinion on international issues. However, this time around, this one might just come back to haunt them, as the US (Trump) will use this division to sow even further seeds of discord among them.

How can they (CARICOM) expect to stand up against Trump on anything, now that they have shown him that he can divide them?

Maybe this is what CARICOM is all about … agree to disagree. Lord help us.

Garnet, N.Y.

LAND FOR SALE 27,691 sq. ft. at Brighton Price negotiable Call: 455-5541 or 1-246-825-0783

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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court/Views

Hadaway advises, „Uphold RSVGPFÊs integrity.‰

and the Grenadines Police Force. It should OUTGOING ACTING not be a means to an COMMISSIONER of Police end. You must have a Renold Hadaway is passion to uphold the advising police officers to integrity of the uphold the integrity of the organization,” hadaway Royal St. Vincent and the posited.

Grenadines Police Force The outgoing Acting (RSVGPF), at all times.

Police Chief is also Hadaway proceeded on looking forward to closer pre-retirement leave collaboration between Tuesday, January 2. He the police and the public, told THE VINCENTIAN something of which he on Wednesday that the was very passionate. vast majority of Police “During my tenure, we officers are hardworking continued to have a close and dedicated, and is relationship with the urging that to continue public, but improvement in this vein. in this regard will help to But he is asking the enhance our crime few who have been fighting efforts,” he giving less than what is underscored, adding that expected of them, to “crime fighting involves a think seriously about the holistic approach”. job to which they have sworn.

Open door and awards “Law enforcement is for persons who are Hadaway pointed out serious about providing that as Acting the highest standard and Commissioner, he quality service. It is for continued the open door persons whose ultimate policy to all. desire is to uphold the “There was no need for goals and objectives of anyone to make an the Royal St. Vincent appointment to see me.

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Once you turned up at my office and the time was available, I would entertain you, because I recognized that I was doing a service to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and appointments will not always fulfill a person’s desires or needs. When someone has a complaint, their desire is to have the issue addressed in the shortest time.”

Hadaway said he sought to raise the standard of the service delivered to the public generally, and this was achieved to a great extent, but “there is still room for improvement.”

He noted that one of his innovations in this regard was to have awards at the recent Police Awards Ceremony, for the Best Customer Service Police Station (won by the Questelles Police Station), as well as the Best Section of the Police Force (won by the Coast Guard).

“The main thrust

Hadaway has absolutely no regrets.

“I feel a great sense of satisfaction having served the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for that period. It is a job that I enjoyed doing. It is a job to which I have dedicated every day of my career to serving the people of this country.”

Renold Hadaway joined the constabulary on Renold Hadaway retires January 31, 1982. He from the RSVG Police worked ‘Beat and Force after serving that Patrol’, Special institution for 36 years.

Services Unit (SSU), rising to head that Grenada in 1983 and in Unit. He also served as Haiti in 1981.

Commandant and He assumed the office Instructor at the Police of Commissioner of Police Training School.

(Acting) in August 2016, His knowledge and when then Commissioner training saw him being Michael Charles seconded to the Regional proceeded on retirement Security System (RSS) as leave.

No regrets an instructor and Hadaway attended training team Sergeant several training courses As he leaves the Major. regionally and He performed Peace constabulary with just internationally, and Keeping duties in over 36 years experience, holds a degree in law. behind this innovation is to reduce the incidents and allegations portraying the police as inefficient and unprofessional, in responding to complaints from the public. The main focus is to engender the need to embrace the public more professionally. As we go forward, it is my hope that the organization would build on this initiative, and if possible, a police division will be awarded Best Customer Service Division, at the next Police Awards Ceremony.”

The Police Force has to embrace the community, Hadaway stressed, and expressed the view that such initiatives will augur well for law enforcement and crime fighting.

SVG’s diplomatic policy… practicable and principled United Nations sent a letter to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, among other countries, ON DECEMBER 21ST 2017, suggesting that President the United Nations voted on a Trump was going to take this Resolution aimed at rebuking vote personally, and that he the attempt by the United States government to recognize would be “watching this vote carefully”. This sort of Jerusalem as the capital of the behaviour can only be described state of Israel. The Resolution as bullying, and a form of which was passed, inflicted a blackmail. St. Vincent and the dramatic “slap in the face” to Grenadines has always the Trump administration, for maintained that its foreign the way in which it tried to influence the vote, in support of policy is based on the maxim “friends of all and satellites of its policy. none”, and so the particular In the face of threats from the United States to cut funding strategy by the US administration was of no to those countries that backed consequence to the ULP the Resolution, some 128 countries voted in favour of the administration.

Resolution. Only nine countries, including the United States and The UN vote Israel, voted against the There is nothing strange in Resolution, while 35 abstained, the way SVG voted at the UN and 21 were absent from the meeting in December. Readers debate. will remember that the ULP Basically, the Resolution administration voted in favour stressed that Jerusalem is a final status issue, to be resolved of Palestinian statehood, when through relevant UN processes. the motion was debated at the United Nations in 2012.

The Resolution also contends Readers will also remember that that any action aimed at the ULP administration was changing the status, character and demographic composition of perhaps the first in the the Holy City of Jerusalem, are CARICOM region to register its non-support of the US null and void, have no legal government’s decision to move standing and should be its embassy from Tel Aviv to rescinded in compliance with Jerusalem, and to recognize relevant Resolutions of the Jerusalem as the capital of United Nations.

Israel.

The US Ambassador to the The ULP administration

Introduction

could have used this UN vote to gain favour with the Trump administration, but this is not within the principles set out by the ULP. There is a clear understanding of the issues involved. There is a conflict in the Middle East and that certain principles must be adhered to.

In particular, the ULP administration noted the mandate of the UN Security Council, that no changes to the 1967 lines, including with regard to Jerusalem, other than those agreed by the parties through negotiation. This mandate is clearly set out. The UN Security Council goes further in November last year, when it reiterated that actions taken by the occupying power, Israel, to impose laws and administration on the Holy City of Jerusalem are illegal, and null and void, and have no validity whatsoever.

The ULP administration recognizes that the current situation in the Middle East requires mature, responsible and measured action. There have been decades of painstaking work, and lives have been lost in the current conflict between Israel and Palestine. Any unilateral declarations regarding the status of Jerusalem will not advance the cause of a just, peaceful and lasting solution to

the dispute. No amount of thinly veiled threats by the Trump administration would have had any impact on the position of the ULP administration.

Another political party would have done otherwise. The opposition New Democratic Party had remained quite dumb on this issue, but there is no doubt as to the position they would have taken. After all, we are reminded of the famous statement of the NDP, of “what would America say?”.

administration beginning to have an effect on these countries. One important note, and that is, some of the CARICOM countries who abstained on the Jerusalem issue, were some of the countries who tried to alter a CARICOM decision on Venezuela, and aligned themselves with a US CARICOM position authorized Resolution, that would have laid the groundwork It is interesting to note the for an intervention in that way several CARICOM country. countries voted in the entire St. Vincent and the exercise. For example countries Grenadines is now being seen as like Antigua, the Bahamas, a trend-setter when it comes to Jamaica, and Trinidad and principled positions on the Tobago voted to abstain, and the international scene. Several of Trump administration must see the country’s diplomats have this as a victory. Countries like performed well on the UN St. Kitts and Nevis and St. circuit, chairing critical UN Lucia, did not bother to turn up committees and so forth. to vote. This left Barbados, It is recognized by objective Belize, Grenada, Guyana, observers, locally, regionally Dominica, Suriname and St. and on the international scene, Vincent and the Grenadines, that the ULP administration who all voted in support of the has a bold, principled, creative Resolution. and well grounded foreign This poses some questions for policy, and further, that it is the students of foreign relations. pro-active and beneficial to the Why should the CARICOM vote country. The UN vote on be so disproportionate?

Jerusalem, is but another Shouldn’t there be a constancy example of how the ULP of purpose? Or is the Trump conducts its foreign policy.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 9.

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Dangerous arrogance

“The only thing more dangerous than ignorance is arrogance.” Albert Einstein (1879-1955) – German-born theoretical physicist. He developed the theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics. He received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922. to the feeling of “bad pride” when we allow pride in our achievements and ALBERT EINSTEIN IS OFTEN regarded as successes to “swell our noses” and possessing one of the brightest minds in make us think that we are superior to modern history. He was an outstanding others. Such vanity can encourage the physicist. His theory of relativity gained unsuspecting to become forgetful of him worldwide recognition. However, those persons around us who made Einstein was a philosopher in his own significant contributions to our success. right. Many of his sayings continue to Sometimes we neglect to recognize and encourage readers, listeners, and viewers appreciate those “invisible persons” long after his death. The quotation that who propelled us the pinnacle of our is used to introduce today’s essay is no success. These often carry the labels of exception. We can learn so much from parents, spouses, teachers, concerned those nine words, as he cautions us to friends, and so on. Many of them avoid the dangers of arrogance. It is contribute to our success from behind corrosive. It is destructive. It brings pain the scenes. They become like winds to those who embrace it, as well as those beneath our wings, causing us to soar who observe it in action. to heights of achievement beyond their We can sometimes confuse own. They selflessly give of themselves confidence with arrogance. There is so that we can excel. Our successes nothing inherently wrong with are never a solo event. Understanding exhibiting confidence based on a this perfectly, encourages us to always particular skill, trait, or stay humble and to keep dangerous accomplishment. However, we have to arrogance at bay. be forever on guard that we do not Many of this column’s readers can venture into the undesirable and readily identify individuals in business, destructive minefield of arrogance. government and society, who Arrogance conjures up an image of demonstrate that dangerous arrogance. being full of oneself. It exudes an We observe it in their body language, image of pride in one’s abilities or their utterances, and their behaviours. accomplishments. It displays itself in It is often visible. It is audible. In so those individuals who believe that they many instances, it appears that they are always right, or who know have concluded that by pulling persons everything about everything. The down, and belittling others, they arrogant perceives himself/herself as automatically elevate themselves. In being superior to others. the Caribbean, we describe such There are some who believe that individuals as suffering from and arrogance emerges when the bearer perpetuating the “crab-in-the-barrel has excessive confidence. However, a syndrome”. They are addicted to closer review may readily reveal that portraying an image of superiority and such individuals actually lack power. The concepts of “servant confidence. The arrogance may very leadership” and humility appear to be well be a masquerade for some deep foreign to them. They often appear to insecurities. The arrogance can be an be addicted to the desire for and attempt to over-compensate for feelings addiction to power. In doing so, many of inadequacy and inferiority self-destruct. Their personal lives and, complexes. in some instances, their careers There is nothing fundamentally implode. Arrogance is dangerous. It wrong about feeling good about sets emotional minefields and wears ourselves and our accomplishments. suicide vests that are so often triggered We should be understandably happy when least expected. when we achieve a particular milestone The need for power, and its in our lives; something that we had retention, can often be identified as the hoped for and worked hard to achieve. source for this venomous, dangerous, We could feel a “healthy pride” in and destructive arrogance. John F. relation to such accomplishments.

Kennedy (1917-1963), the 35th Such descriptions fit the scenario of the President of the United States of student who studies hard to gain good America, reminds us that power often grades on an examination. The leads man toward arrogance and, if overweight individual who controls unhindered, blinds him from seeing the his/her diet and engages in regular richness and diversity of existence. rigorous exercise can also feel justly There is beauty in diversity. There is proud when the scales and measuring therefore no need for any of us to veer tape confirm that he/she has lost into the realm of arrogance, incorrectly weight. The diabetic who disciplines assuming that we are greater than himself to avoid carbohydrates over the another because of position, profession, festive season in an effort to control skin colour, nationality, gender, blood sugar levels, can also be religious belief, and so on. We are all understandably proud. These are all fearfully and wonderfully made. It is examples of individuals who

by God’s grace that we are who we are, demonstrate “healthy pride”. John and that we possess what we have.

Maxwell, the accomplished American Our accomplishments and possessions author and motivational speaker, should therefore not make us feel that reminds us that, “There are two kinds we are superior to others. We may of pride, both good and bad. ‘Good have different roles to play in life, but pride’ represents our dignity and selfwe all have a right to be here; this respect. ‘Bad pride’ is the deadly sin of world was designed for all of us. Such superiority that reeks of conceit and regular humbling thoughts will avoid arrogance.” We must therefore be our becoming addicted to, and afflicted vigilant to avoid “Bad pride” in all of by, dangerous arrogance. its forms — especially when it fuels, and is fuelled by, arrogance.

Send comments, criticisms & We all have to be on the lookout for suggestions to “bad pride”. We can so easily succumb julesferdinand@gmail.com

Understanding violence, finding solution ‘Turning and turning in the widening gyre | The falcon cannot hear the falconer | Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold | Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world | The blooddimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere| The ceremony of innocence is drowned | The best lack all conviction, while the worst | Are full of passionate intensity.’ — W.B. Yeats, The Second Coming VIOLENCE IS A MAJOR PROBLEM in our society. We scored a new record of 42 homicides in 2017, but that was not the key story. Understandably, the loud chorus was raised following the beatings, maiming and killing of some of our women. Everyone called for a get tough attitude toward men who perpetuate these beastly acts.

Plain Talk is all for tough actions, but a get tough attitude which concentrates only on men’s abuse of women misses the point and may offer only band aid solutions while the sore festers. Physical abuse, like all forms of violence, is a function of power, power relations and power calculations. No one raises his hand against another whom he thinks can ‘out his light.’ Men beat on women, women beat on other women, and men beat up other men because they calculate that they could take down the victim.

Consequently, while violence against mostly defenseless women is horrible and must be forcefully addressed, it is equally necessary for society to take a hard look at violence in the society. To highlight violence against women as men beating up defenseless women, is to perpetuate victimhood rather than empower both men and women so that violence can be exposed as a scourge on all our house.

It is the society’s dislocation that is mainly responsible for the escalation in violence. Machismo, male chauvanism and misogyny grew out of the dark bowels of society. Only when the societal entrails are cleaned up and purified, will incidents of violence against women and men drop. To fight violence against women alone, no matter how commendable, is like chopping off the snake’s tail while the poisonous head and body roam free.

The economic disconnect, the shortage of opportunities for personal advancement, are strong drivers for the new low we are approaching.

There is far more abuse of men by men in society than of men on women.

We need only spend some time in the magistrate’s courts. Most of the assault and wounding cases are men on men. People at the lower rounds of the societal ladder try to find ways to validate their wretched lives. They don’t take slights lightly; they think it is a badge of honour to act tough.

They want to assert power, domination and ownership against our women. The woman’s attempt to break free and assert her independence, is what so often leads to the violent responses of some men.

Looking at the horizon, we posit that things may get worse before we see better days. Therefore, all of us have to jump into this together. It is absolutely incorrect to argue as some

women do, that men can sympathize, but cannot empathize with an abused woman. One does not have to experience the ravaging effects of cancer to empathize with the victim.

While we mourn the dreadful incidence of abuse against our women and put forth strategies that will make our women folk safer, we will be stoning the sea if our strategy for survival does not address the larger problem of the culture of violence which is gaining acceptance. If we see ourselves as objects, we will soon be so treated and sometimes discarded as a thing of spent value.

Men, too often, refer to women as ‘it’, ‘my thing’ and ‘my beef’. Women have also gotten into the act. They now ‘lovingly’ call their sister/friends ‘bitches’ and ‘whores’. This is degeneration in slow motion. But this is not surprising, as capitalism turns everything, including human life, into an object for use and misuse.

A society that does not take care of its people’s basic needs, commits violence against the people. It is a form of violence when a woman or man is forced to give up her body in order to get a job. The society that watches as more of its young become prostitutes, selling themselves for material trinkets, commits violence against its most vulnerable members.

A political system that celebrates winner takes all, and locks out a big percentage of our citizens from jobs, promotions and other benefits, engenders frustration, alienation and anxieties that may result in violence.

Violence reflects a decay, a growing sickness, a disease that demands more concerted attention than the occasional feel good/get vex chatter that flare ups when a woman is beaten, or hacked to death by some troubled soul.

Only a holistic approach to societal problems will help us to rid our society of violence in all its manifestations. We have to communicate more, build up new and better support structures, create new bodies and new minds. Indeed, we have to create a new set of human beings with new values grounded in an understanding that we are all one or we are nothing. In short, we have to unlearn most of what we learn, and reeducate ourselves to the seriousness of the problem we face.

Until we do that, our call for an end to abuse of our women folk by men, will be like dogs barking at flying birds. Things will continue to fall apart and the centre will fail to hold, anarchy will loosen on our land, and blood will flow more than ever before.

We will lose our innocence and people will clamour for times long past with no chance of returning.

Woe be unto us if the best among us lose conviction, while the very worst, full of passionate intensity, make a power grab for the logical space.

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

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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG: 4th highest murder rate per capita in the world

LAST YEAR, 2017, was another bad year for Vincentians, under the incompetent ULP regime, with murders reaching a record high of 42.

SVG now has the fourth highest murder rate per capita in the world.

There is too much blood running in SVG.

have little trouble getting one. Violent crime and gun crime have increased significantly, contributing to SVG having the fourth highest murder rate per capita in the world.

According to SVG Green Party Leader Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons.), MSc, MBA, the long-term lack of investment in education has also contributed to the high murder rate. The ULP regime has systematically cut the amount of money spent on education, and the ULP regime’s failure to educate our people has resulted in fewer people being able to get highly-paid jobs or Source: www.pri.org/stories start their own business to support themselves financially.

Jamaica has been renowned for According to the World Bank, high decades for having a high murder murder rates undermine economic rate, but SVG has an even higher murder rate per capita than Jamaica. growth and social development, and SVG is the most murderous country in leave countries caught in a vicious circle; high murder rates cause lower the Caribbean, and this shows that economic growth, which causes the ULP regime is the worst insufficient economic and employment government in the Caribbean. opportunity, which causes poverty, insecurity and underdevelopment, which causes high murder rates, which causes…etc.

According to Ivan O’Neal, who has a BSc degree in Finance, Accounts and Economics from Oxford Brookes University, England, the root cause of the poor economy, high murder rates, wide income disparities, high levels of poverty, insecurity and underdevelopment and low levels of university education, is the lack of Source: SVGBC TV REVENUE coming in to the SVG The long-term inability of the ULP Treasury.

The number of killings in SVG in regime to competently manage SVG’s 2018 will be much worse than 2017, public finances to create a strong unless — as the IMF report economy and mass employment, has recommended — we broaden the tax dragged our country down to this base and tax the super-rich migrants devastating situation. of Mustique and Canouan and tax The murder rate in SVG has risen Taiwan. sharply under the ULP regime, and Under the financially incompetent the violent crime epidemic appears to ULP regime, SVG has now risen to the be escalating into a full-blown 4th highest murder rate per capita in humanitarian crisis. The virtual the world and the 3rd highest rape collapse of our economy and the rate per capita in the world. These widespread poverty and unemployment in SVG, are significant statistics are not the accolades of a factors causing the high murder rate. government that knows how to create a financially strong country.

Nearly half of the people in SVG SVG needs change. We need a new live in poverty, and more than one government with good financial quarter of them are extremely poor. governance and the ability to create a Poverty is closely linked to lack of strong economy. Crime will always income and unemployment, and the destroy a country, whereas highgap between the rich and the poor is quality education will always build a huge.

There is little money circulating in country.

We cannot continue with the our country, and many businesses are experiencing their worst sales levels in financially irresponsible and reckless ULP regime, as the cost to our people 40 years. This has caused many is too high. Having the fourth highest businesses to close down and many murder rate per capita in the world is others to lay-off staff. There is little a clear sign that we must alter the opportunity for work in the private deadly path that the ULP regime has sector, and many young people have set our country upon. had no job since leaving school.

The ULP regime’s incompetency has led to SVG having a porous border SVG Green Party and people desiring a firearm seem to www.svggreenparty.org

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 11.

Community

Hearts of Charity brings smiles FOR THE THIRD consecutive year, over 100 children from the North Leeward constituency benefitted from Christmas treats, distributed by members of VincentianNew York based group Hearts of Charity.

On Sunday, December 17th , some 120 children from Chateaubelair, Spring Village, Fitz Hughes and surrounding areas gathered at the Chateaubelair Methodist School, to be a

Some of the children who attended the Annual Christmas party hosted by Hearts of Charity.

part of the Third Annual Kids Christmas Party, with much to eat, drink and celebrate.

Founder of the group Esther Davis said though her charity “is relatively young,” it is her intention to extend beyond Chateaubelair, going into even more communities across St. Vincent and the Grenadines; assisting where possible to ensure that the less fortunate kids

here are able to unwrap at least one gift and toy on Christmas Day. Meanwhile, over 50 gift bags containing food and clothing were distributed to needy children and teens in Vermont, with an additional 50 plus residents in the Sion Hill area all sharing in Davis’ goodwill.

The Hearts of Charity founder said growing up in a household where her parents were not able to provide very much to her and her siblings, she

always had a desire to improve her living conditions and help others who are not able to help and provide for themselves.

Davis also expressed much thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Cuthbert James of Chateaubelair, who have been coordinating the activities locally for the past 3 years.

There was a gift for as many children as the Charity could afford.

Flow reaches out to communities TELECOMMUNICATIONS service provider Flow made its presence felt in the homes of over 200 persons nationwide, as the Flow team embarked on their community outreach.

On December 19th and 20th, the Flow team, with the assistance of community health aids, visited the homes of scores of the elderly, the shut ins and many poor and needy individuals.

On Tuesday, December 19th, the Flow team split into groups,

Esther Davis - founder of the Hearts of Charity – interacting with one of the children who received a special 2017 Christmas cheer.

making it possible to reach a larger number of communities on the Windward side of mainland St. Vincent. As such, therefore, the smaller teams were able to ensure that Flow cheer reached communities as distant as Fancy in the north.

The second day of the two-day trek took the team to the Leeward.

The community outreach programme has been in existence for some years now, and the aim remains the same: to positively impact the lives Flow team members brought an of persons, intimate air of goodwill to the while elderly and shut-ins. connecting communities.

Marketing and Communications According to Lead Nikala Williams, the response from the communities was overwhelming.

The Flow team “It was gratifying to see how getting excited and welcoming the elderly themselves and shut-ins were towards the organized for Flow family,” Williams their trek of commented. good cheer.

CIBC FirstCaribbean spreads Christmas cheer A MOTHER of three in the Georgetown area was expected to ring in the Christmas season on a higher note, after receiving some much needed help recently.

Ms. Davenet Blake and her boys, ages seven, three and one year old — one of whom has Down Syndrome - were treated to some Christmas cheer and hands-on assistance as staff from CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank came together to paint the interior and exterior of her home, clean, and supply some interior decorating and gift the

home with a stove, some chairs, linens, a food basket, a Christmas ham and other presents.

Ms. Blake expressed her thanks and gratitude to the management and staff of CIBC FirstCaribbean.

Country Head of CIBC FirstCaribbean Shelly-Anne Samuel said, “We know the holiday season can be a difficult time of year for anyone, especially for those who are in need. We at CIBC FirstCaribbean are proud to be the champions of such a programme, where cooperation

and human effort - rather than purely financial resources - are employed to make a positive difference and give back to our communities.”

She explained that, “We list legitimate causes that donors choose to adopt, and encourage staff involvement in many of our community activities, but through the unique Adopt-ACause programme, employees get the opportunity to identify projects in their immediate surroundings that they can become involved in.”

(Contributed)

CIBC FirstCaribbean staff members brought real need Christmas cheer to a family in Georgetown.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 13.

12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

EDITOR’S NOTE: As has been the tradition for the last forty-eight years, Metrocint General Insurance Company held its Customer Appreciation Day, December 29th , 2017. Here’s a glimpse of how that day transpired.

The top Management Brass at Metrocint/THE VINCENTIAN - always ready to serve (L-R): Coline Fraser (Office Manager), Jacinta Elliott (Project Manager), Ian Da Silva (Insurance Claims Manager), Noreen Richards (Director/Chairperson) and Desiree Richards (Managing Director).

Metrocint Appreciation Day 2017 was a special occasion.

It provided the opportunity for teacher Mr. Leroy Mulraine to reconnect and reminisce with his student Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

Even though it was a day for socializing, some Metrocint staff members were on hand to conduct ongoing business. No one is left unattended at Metro.

A time for Metrocint customers to mingle with one another and Metro staffers.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves helped to spread the Christmas cheer and Metrocint’s appreciation.

Honoured guest Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves in the distinguished company of Ms. Desiree Richards, Managing Director of the Metrocint Group of Companies and THE VINCENTIAN. Right: Mrs Rachel George, Administrative Assistant/Metrolife, shed her usual duties to ensure that that special Metro hospitality was extended to all.

A coming together of Metrocint General Insurance, Metrolife and THE VINCENTIAN Management and Staff.

Even the younger ones are welcome at Metrocint.

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14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Grenadines

Bequia booms on New Year’s Eve! BEQUIA HAS SEEN RECORD NUMBERS OF VISITORS OVER THE holiday period, with yachts of all sizes thronging Admiralty Bay, and bars and restaurants throughout the island bustling day and night. Thousands enjoyed the climax on New Year’s Eve when 1/2 ton of pyro burst over the harbour on the stroke of midnight in a spectacular fireworks display.

Brainchild of Sir James Mitchell, the all-volunteer Bequia New Year’s Eve Celebration Committee is solely responsible for organising and mounting this magnificent New Year’s Eve show each year. Funds are raised entirely through the generous contribution of private individuals, local businesses and well-wishers, with import concessions provided by the Ministry of Finance,

Admiralty Bay saw record numbers and of yachts over Christmas and New permission to Year. import Midnight granted by fireworks over the Commissioner of Police.

Admiralty Bay on Speaking after yet another Old Year’s Night. successful fireworks display, Sir James commented: “A good idea needs dedication to remain a reality.

Our fearless “Bang Gang” has earned the gratitude of all of Bequia and its many visitors with their continued commitment and expertise”.

A full list of donors and supporters will be published in due course.

(Contributed) Sir James Mitchell, conceptualised and encouraged the formation of the Bequia New Year’s Eve Celebration Committee.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 15.

Diaspora

Spiritual Baptist bishop honoured Story and photo by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net;

kingnaking210@yahoo.com

US CORRESPONDENT THE BRONX, New Yorkbased St. Matthias Charities, Inc. recently bestowed its Humanitarian Award on a Vincentianborn Spiritual Baptist bishop in Brooklyn.

Bishop Merton Cumberbatch, pastor of the St. Anthony’s Divine Church of Healing in Brooklyn, New York, received the award during the St. Matthias Charities, Inc.’s 6th Annual Prayer Breakfast at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn.

“I was extremely honored and humbled by the recognition I received from St. Matthias Charities, Inc.,” Bishop Cumberbatch told THE VINCENTIAN after the award ceremony. “I am grateful for the recognition obtained, but this could not have been possible without my wife, Rev. Cumberbatch, who is the brain behind this ongoing project.

“Together, we continue to extend a helping hand to anyone in need, hoping that, in so doing, we could make a positive impact on everyone we come into contact with,” he added. “Our mission and desire to help wherever there is a need continues. And your thoughtfulness and kind gesture [St. Matthias Charities, Inc.] are rare within our community.

And for that, your consideration was truly appreciated.

“I sincerely thank everyone involved in making this decision, and I pray that we all continue to work together, supporting each other in making a difference within our community,” Bishop Cumberbatch continued.

“Our mission work has just begun, and united together we can and will make a difference in the lives of the vulnerable and less fortunate.”

Never forgot home Bishop Cumberbatch, who was born in Belair, received his elementary education at Belair Government School and his secondary education at the then Boys Grammar School in Kingstown.

At a young age, Cumberbatch said he demonstrated leadership qualities, adding that, through his active participation in youth activities, he became president of Belair 4-H Club and the Belair Anglican Young Peoples Association.

Cumberbatch said he was called and accepted baptism at 17. In 1973, he migrated to the United States, becoming a deacon ten years later and a minister in 1989.

In 1995, he was consecrated to the office of Bishop.

Despite being far from home, Cumberbatch said he never forgot St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and his love and desire to give back to his homeland.

With God’s blessing and anointing, Cumberbatch said he married his wife Electlady, Rev. Rita Cumberbatch, co-pastor of St. Anthony’s Divine Church of Healing, Overseer of St. Francis Spiritual Baptist Church in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and affiliated minister at St. Joseph Spiritual Baptist Church in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Together, Cumberbatch said they started a mission to “help the beautiful islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

With their determination to reach out to the less fortunate, they said they started meeting the needs of the “shut-ins in various villages and communities by providing necessities.

“This ignited a fire and the desire to do more,” Cumberbatch said, adding they also started donating “supplies and necessities” to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital in Kingstown, and the Lewis Punnett Home for the Aged and the Mental Health Center in Glen.

In addition, Bishop Cumberbatch said he and his wife provide “sponsorship, through transportation, food, books, clothing and funds for extracurricular activities, to one or two less fortunate children with great potential that lack financial support in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Cumberbatch said he continues to share his passion and spiritual insight in “the word,

standing on the truth of the scriptures and the calling” he received at 17.

The bishop said he and Elect-lady Rev. Cumberbatch “have been doing this for over 30 years, and are looking forward to 30 plus more years of helping individuals in dire need.”

Bishop Merton Cumberbatch (3rd from R) and his wife (4th from R) receive The couple said they Humanitarian Award. Also pictured are pastor Robert McBarnett (2nd from R) also distribute bibles and members of the St. Matthias Charities, Inc. throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and make annual pilgrimages to the country, “whereby the word and gospel of Jesus Christ can be ministered to God’s children.”

St. Matthias Charities, Inc The Prayer Breakfast — which was graced by the presence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines New York Consul General Howie Prince and his Grenadian counterpart Rosemary Welch — also featured Jamaican gospel artiste Crosswell Daley, as the top act; and Christmas and gospel selections from Zita Adams, a publicschool teacher in Brooklyn.

In May, the St. Matthias Charities, Inc., founded and headed by Vincentian Spiritual Baptist pastor Robert McBarnett, completed a mission to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, distributing over 200 cases of pampers for patients and residents at the Mental Health Rehabilitation Centre and Lewis Punnett Home for the Aged, respectively.

The group also handed over two EKG machines — one to the Levi Latham Hospital in the Marriaqua Valley and the other to the Georgetown Hospital, McBarnett said.

In August, the group donated toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, soap and other supplies to the Mental Health Rehabilitation Cenrer and the Lewis Punnett Home for the Aged.

Members were on the ground in St. Vincent and the Grenadines before Christmas to hand over four commercial washing machines, one dryer and three television sets to the Lewis Punnett Home for the Aged and the Mental Health Rehabilitation Center.

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16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

The first anti-cancer vaccine: A response to Anesia Baptiste

by DR. JERROL THOMPSON MD/MPH Infectious Disease Specialist PART ONE

THE HUMAN PAPILLOMA Viruses (HPV) is a group of viruses that can cause Cancer. The vaccine against the most high-risk HPV viruses is now the most effective means of significantly reducing Cervical Cancer. It is the 3rd leading cause of female cancer deaths in St. Vincent & the Grenadines where the rate of Cervical Cancer is 6 times greater than the USA, as the vaccine was introduced a decade ago. HPV is believed to cause nearly 5% of all new cancers across the world, making it almost as dangerous as tobacco with respect to cancer.

Most individuals don’t even know they have the infection until the onset of cancer. It is true that once infected,80% to 90% HPV infection is cleared by our immune system in 6to 24 months. Many interpret this as no risk (Oh I hear it will clear); however, the risk of pre-cancer changes is not zero with transient, short duration, active HPV infections. If one virus is cleared, there can be reinfection with a different HPV virus, which is also cleared, then repeated reinfection.

Unfortunately, a small percentage experience chronic and persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) and this is critical for the development of cervical cancer.

Other cofactors are: many sexual partners, smokers, long-term oral contraceptives, coexisting Chlamydia trachomatis or herpes, immunosuppression and multiple pregnancies. So even though an active infection clears, the HPV does not go away, HPV can stay dormant for years before it starts causing the cell damage that leads to cancer HPVtriggered cancers can take 10 -30 years to develop, but increasingly we see pre-cancer changes before age 25.

The virus can live in the scrotum and the hair-bearing areas of the genitals.

We now see more penile and oral cancers developing.

In some countries, multiple HPV infections occurs in 10% to 30% of women, and multiple HPV types is associated with longer persistence of HPV infection. Women who develop cervical cancer at age 40 probably got infected as teens, shortly after sex with their first sexual partners.

Current HPV vaccines can prevent infection with the most cancer-causing strains of HPV, but do not help women already infected with the common, sexually transmitted virus, and this is the main reason why it is recommended at age 11 - 13. Anytime much later is just too late. This is such a sensitive subject. A discussion that your 11-year-old daughter will eventually become sexually active is taboo. (Not my little daughter).

Unfortunately, pap smears which is a cancer detection measure, is not greater than 70% effective, even in high screening countries. Vaccines like Carivax against the five highest risk

HPV virus is prevention, and although the vaccine can wane in some women, it remains effective in most.

The WHO estimates that 630,000 new cases Dr. Jerrol of HPV-related Thompson MD cancers occur each year, resulting in 266,000 deaths worldwide. High USA medical insurance coverage and promoted pap smear screening results in a lower US risk: however, in most parts of the world it is huge. A low risk is not a zero risk. The anti-vaccine sceptics round down the risks of not vaccinating to 0%, (vaccines are not necessary, and round up the incidence of adverse events to 100% (vaccines are all dangerous).

Other viruses can cause cancers like the HTLV1 (Caribbean Japanese T-Cell Lymphoma-Leukaemia Virus) and EBV virus which can induce nasopharyngeal cancer; however, no vaccines are available yet.

Vaccines have had a profound impact on civilization, from Smallpox, which for 3000 years killed 30% of those infected, spared no class, including pharaohs, French King Louis XV, Tsar Peter II, the Aztec and Inca races; but after the first ever vaccine, discovered by Edward Jenner in 1796, it was declared globally eradicated in 1980. On the other hand, there are still 20 Million Influenza cases annually with 500,000 deaths globally, especially the elderly and infants. This is still a significant reduction since a vaccine was used in 1933, but Influenza requires a new version of a vaccine developed twice a year, as the virus rapidly mutates, demonstrating that the science of vaccination is challenging and ever changing. Other vaccines for childhood infections like Mumps, Measles, Diphtheria, Polio and Chicken Pox have been hugely successful worldwide and saves millions of lives annually especially in poor developing countries.

Mandatory Immunization programs in SVG have enjoyed a 99% Immunization rate without a single known major adverse reaction, and evidence of immunization is often required for admission to Primary School and Colleges. Not many persons will remember when these and other infections were the major cause of global deaths; however, when parents and guardians are negligent or refuse to immunize their child in response to any well-orchestrated, anti-vaccine fear campaigns, there have been severe outbreaks with hundreds of deaths and even more left disabled for life. It is clear to me that the Anti-vaxxers will not stop until all vaccination cease, and will promote myths, cherry pick, fabricate and even falsify data in their quest, tantamount to Medical Anarchy. I am also concerned about Big Pharm Monopolies, but I am far more worried about Antivaxxers.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 17.

News

Rainbow Radio League Inc. DIRECTORÊS REPORT 2017 our effectiveness. The lack of transportation and in many cases blocked roads, meant that the injured could not reach medical centers, neither could medical staff reach out to those affected especially in remote communities.

Suggestions for infield emergency measures

under the adverse effects of nature. We need, therefore, to train in and learn others’ terrain during “peace” time. Prior knowledge of another country would make responding to their needs more immediate and effective.

The RRL Inc. needs the support of corporate society. We do not have the financial resources to purchase response vehicles for land, sea and air. If our work is to be effective, we will need the tools of the trade. If for example, an aircraft crashes into the sea, we do not even own a row boat, so our The RRL team operated from a car, service, if any, in that with radio operators sleeping in it situation, will be for the first three days so as to compromised by the facilitate and accommodate radio lack of equipment. traffic.

Therefore, we NEED these assets if we are to deliver a proper service, not only to SVG, but to the wider Caribbean including our immediate neighbours.

And finally, a big “THANK YOU” to our sponsors this year, including but not limited to BOSVG, NTRC, SVGAIR, RUBIS, and all persons and agencies that contributed to the success of our mission to Dominica.

With the help of corporate society, a construction team hopes to return to Dominica in 2018 to repair the roofs of five homes destroyed by the hurricane.

The Directorate of the RRL Inc. join in wishing all Vincentians and readers in general, a healthy and accident free 2018 and well beyond that.

This highlighted the need for bicycles with luggage racks and/or small electric bikes recharged by solar energy, to be used to reach these remote The RRL helped to get a commercial radio station back on locations. Luggage racks will the air in Dominica. allow doctors or nurses to carry a limited amount of WE ARE ON THE THRESHOLD of emergency communications medications and sterilised a new year filled with some old during a mass dressings. It is easier to use and some new challenges, as we casualty(simulation) event, prepare to mitigate the effects staging ‘in house’ simulations, bicycles in most situations, as of nature at its worst. as well as conducting two ham a bicycle can be lifted/taken over fallen trees and 2017 had its challenges, radio courses leading up to a landslides blocking roads, some of which will spill into Technician Class licence. whereas motor vehicles will be 2018 and beyond, especially as stranded. Bicycles could also it relates to the rebuilding Highlight of the year be used by other First process in Dominica, the result Responders where vehicular of an event still fresh in our The highlight of the year, minds. however, was our involvement access is blocked or restricted.

Radio communications was Going forward, however, we with a medical and emergency and will always be a problem, need to pause and reflect on communications relief mission once people do NOT have a what it would have been if it to Dominica, just one week radio. Cell phones are useless was our beloved SVG that was after ‘Maria’ left a trail of for communications in the traumatized by Maria or some damage and destruction. aftermath of a disaster, but other major hazard. Are we Our arrival in Dominica really prepared? was timely and effective. Our could be useful for taking photographs of damage During 2017, the RRL and multi-disciplined team without jeopardizing the its volunteer members targeted the needs of that safety of the person taking the participated in a number of country at that time. We picture. But situations can events ranging from safety brought medical supplies arise during the exercise of (drills) at sea, operating from along with the services of a photographing. For example, kayaks for an open water doctor, nurse and you may be standing on a swimming event, emergency pharmacist(RO); a certified river bank taking a picture of communications at motor small engine specialist cum a house being washed away, sporting events, assisting the chainsaw operator (RO) and School of Nursing (DNE) with an emergency communications unaware that the area on which you are standing has specialist. been undermined by the While in Dominica water. That area is likely to we put aside one day collapse under your weight just to clear blocked and you end up being a victim. roads, covering a distance of a little over Therefore, there must be a concerted effort to train as a mile in the Wesley many radio operators from area, to the main As the RRL team arrived in every community to offset the Report submitted by: airport RO = radio Dominica, they established lack of cell phone and landline Donald A. De Riggs – operator. contact with stations in the service, especially during Director – RRL Inc. The communications region. emergencies.

Medical team played a vital role teams should also be in coordinating the trained to use two-way arrival of visiting medical teams, as well radios. as food and medical The RRL going supplies. RO’s in forward neighbouring islands, notably Anguilla, St. We are living in Lucia, Grenada, perilous times, and our Barbados, Montserrat, watch words must be Antigua and T&T, played a critical role in ‘readiness at all times’. relaying messages into Secondly, we must be prepared to respond to and out of the affected the needs of our areas. neighbours, as The lack of fuel in sometimes the impact the immediate Helping to establish contact with can be so severe that aftermath of Maria The team also constructed a makeshift partition at the Wesley Health family members in neighbouring somewhat compromised even well-prepared islands. countries can still reel Centre to provide some privacy for stay over patients.

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18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Let your feelings be known Dear George, I HAVE DEEP feelings for my boss and I have told this to only one person, my best friend, a female.

My boss is young, single and very attractive. Since I have known her and have been working for her, I have concluded that she is the woman for me. I have not told her of my feelings for her, but the way she speaks to me tells me that she appreciates me and thinks very highly of me. Part of me tells me that if I tell her I would like a

relationship with her, she would agree, but that 1% of doubt I have is holding me back.

I do not want to taint the present working relationship although I believe she is the kind of person who would not hold it against me. I more believe it is my pride and fear of rejection that is keeping me back.

Do you think I should leave things the way they are, or tell her flat out how I feel and see where that leads?

Deeply in love

Dear Deeply in love, A very good friend of mine once said to me that the answer is “no” until you ask, and that may very well apply in your case. If in your calculation you believe that your boss may very well have similar feelings, then you ought to respectfully let her know your heart. She may appreciate you letting her know upfront.

Let her know that if that feeling is not mutual, then you will be

professional enough not to let her response stand in the way of the working relationship that you two presently enjoy. Good luck to you, and keep me posted.

George

No specified location for sex and nowhere else.

My husband strongly MY PASTOR was talking disagreed with him and challenged him right to a group of married there and then. The couples and he said Pastor told him that he something that got me needed to correctly thinking. He said that interpret the scripture, as wives, we ought to reject any suggestion by and must ask for divine guidance in that respect. our husbands to have I have my views on it but sexual intercourse anywhere else other than chose not to speak. I just the bedroom. He said we want to hear your take must never let them “do on the matter. it” in the car, in strange places, etc., and labelled Confused such behavior as being for men of the world. He Dear Confused, advised us wives to value Sex was created by ourselves and demand God; it was meant to be a that we be taken in bed

Dear George,

pleasurable experience.

As far as I am aware, there is no specific location given where it ought to take place. You are free to choose your venues but, of course, you will be guided by the laws of the land as it relates to public places and indecent exposure, etc.

Your Pastor should not let his preferences impede your freedom to sexually express yourselves as a couple.

Have fun!

George

Take your time Dear George,

Dear Patient,

I SHARED the secret of my virginity with my best friend, and she told me that I should hurry up and get with the programme, meaning that I should quit being a virgin. She told me that the men these days do not want women who are inexperienced; they want women who know what they are about. Is that true, George?

I do not want to go out and give my body away just like that. I prefer to wait for the man who would make me a great husband. I am 28 years old and consider myself a woman who still has time to wait longer for that special someone.

It is not true that men are only searching for women who have sexual experience, to be their wives and soul mates, and therefore, that is not a reason to throw your body around.

There are men who are frantically searching for women with your status, and you are quite correct in making a decision to wait until you find that special someone. This is one time that you ought not to heed the advice of your best friend. Stay your course and, in due time, you will meet your match. When you do, you will be happy that you made the decision to do just that.

Patient

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) You can make money, but try not to let it slip through your fingers. Your words will be taken out of context if you're evasive with coworkers or employers. You may jump from the frying pan into the fire if you make a move this week. It's time you let your true feelings out.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Don't let your lover put demands on you.

You'll need to exercise control. Be careful; you may say something you'll regret later. Try to avoid being extravagant this week.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Help elders in your family. Look out for your‐ self this week. Entertainment should include the whole family or a lot of your friends.

Don't force your opinions on friends or rela‐ tives unless you are prepared to lose their favor.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) You will have splendid suggestions for fund raising events. You need to lie back and enjoy a little rest. Don't overdo it. You need to enjoy yourself. The great outdoors will allow you to teach youngsters some of the things you learned when growing up.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Your suggestions for fund raising events will be well received. Don't be afraid to make additions to your house. Travel will promote romantic connections. You need to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm and confidence in you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Be sure to question any detail that you feel could leave you in a precarious position at a later date. Try not to be too emotional with those around you. Be aware of any emotional deception. Do not sign legal contracts or doc‐ uments this week. Take a close look at docu‐ ments before signing on the dotted line.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) You can expect to experience delays or addi‐ tional red tape if you deal with institutions.

Expand your knowledge and sign up for cours‐ es and seminars. Although up setting, changes in your domestic situation will be favorable.

You will encounter those who can help you further your goals if you attend functions that attract prominent people.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Leave things as they are for the moment and focus on reaching your highest potential at work. Your involvement with groups will raise your self‐esteem. You can bet that you'll draw attention to yourself. Do you really want to start something with someone you can't rea‐ son with?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) You can't help everyone. Avoid getting too close to coworkers or employers. Lighten up your serious attitude Losses are evident.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Try to do your job and then leave. You may not want to spend time around family or your home. Satisfy your passionate mood. Don't make any rash decisions that may affect friendships.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Make some notes regarding the changes that you should make. Your professional attitude will not go unnoticed. You can get into self‐ awareness groups or look into physical enhancement programs. You will have no trouble getting things to fall into place.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You should follow through on educational endeavors you have wanted to pursue for some time. You may want to plan physical activities that will help burn off some of their excess energy. You may need to make a choice. Offers of joint ventures are likely.

ACROSS 1. Suggestive of pine trees 5. Clublike weapon 9. Statute 12. Extent of space 13. Acquire through merit 14. Jackdaw 15. Hold as an opinion 16. Shank 17. Black bird 18. House rodents 20. Enthusiastic 22. Matador’s red cloth 25. Unreal 26. Consumers 27. Attic 28. 24 hours 29. Convert into leather 30. Monkey 33. Dull 35. City in W Germany 37. Ornament gaudily 40. Remnant 41. Past tense of will 42. Great age 43. Donkey 44. Apiece 46. Exclamations of surprise 50. Louse egg 51. Identical 52. Notion 53. Some 54. Of thou 55. Yearn DOWN 1.Cushion 2. Wrath 3. Born 4. complain 5. Birthplace of Muhammad 6. River in central Switzerland 7. French vineyard

8. Place in bondage 9. Proverb 10. Capital of Crete 11. Whirl 19. It is 21. Illustrative craft 22. Mire 23. North American nation 24. Pewter 25. Electrically charged atom 27. Laboratory 29. Label 30. Period of human life 31. Writing instrument 32. Conclusion 33. Indian dish

34. Least polite 35. Monetary unit of Vietnam 36. Whitlow 37. Master (in Africa) 38. Redish dye 39. Covered with

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 19.

dust 40. Snicker 42. Peak 45. Exclamation of surprise 47. Fuss 48. Female fowl 49. Sink or bend downward

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20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

ÂNot invited,Ê says SVGTU President

“WE ARE A professional organization.”

The words of President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union (SVGTU) Oswald Robinson in response to the comment made by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, that he (Gonsalves) was disappointed with the no show by the union at the budget consultation exercise.

Dr. Gonsalves made the comment on Tuesday during a press briefing.

He said that the meeting was called by the Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves, and that he was unaware of the reason why the SVGTU was absent.

“I am not sure if they did not receive their notification, or got it on time or what,” he said.

When contacted, Robinson explained that the SVGTU did not receive an official invitation from the Ministry of Finance, to be a part of the consultation, as is the norm.

“They are supposed to write to us,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. According to the union’s president, the issue was raised at the consultation process preceding the 2017 budgetary presentation.

And those representing the union then expressed their disappointment it having not received a formal invitation.

He further explained that he is in constant contact with the union’s office, and would be informed of any piece of mail or messages, but

“If somebody tapes it, there was no official notification inviting them without your knowledge, it means that they are to be a part of the very guarded in what consultation process. they are going to say, so the conversation is not Meeting recorded honest,” he explained.

While speaking on the “We need to observe issue of consultations, certain elementary the Prime Minister said courtesies and protocols, that it had been brought because if I have a to his attention that the meeting with somebody budgetary discussions with the unions were secretly recorded.

“You can’t have an honest, open discussion if one side is surreptitiously going to tape the conversation as has happened, as we see now it has emerged,” Dr. Gonsalves said.

According to the Prime Minister, in the 17 years that he has been conducting consultations, this was the first time that there was such an occurrence.

and I don’t know the conversation is being taped, I will find that what you are saying may not be your free expressions, but speaking for some other purpose,” Dr. Gonsalves continued, adding that it was an issue that ought to be dealt with. (DD)

Oswald Robinson, President of the SVG Teachers Union, vehemently responded that his union did not receive an invitation to the budget consultations involving trade unions here.

(Photo: WEFM)

Child care with a difference

The Ashaki’s Child Development Centre in Murray’s Village.

Eunice Thompson, also known as Ashaki, has CHILD CARE in St. Vincent and the will provide ventured out on her Grenadines has reached a new level. your child No longer is it from eight to four. care needs. own, backed by a Parents can have protection for Shanette wealth of training and their children when they require. That Parris and experience in Child Care. comes with the opening of the Ashaki’s Vanette Child Development Centre in Murray’s Delpesche Village. have joined Ashaki on staff, but there This is the brainchild of Eunice is a ready pool of extra help when Thompson, also known as Ashaki. extra services are required.

She received training in Child Care And parents would not have to be in the United Kingdom and St. concerned about their children’s Vincent and the Grenadines. She also environment. Ashaki has groomed a pursued studies at the Open Campus garden where the students will be of the University of the West Indies in exposed to plants. That is in addition Kingstown, and having served to the sphere of developmental voluntarily in the Child Care field for activities to which they have access. eight years, she has ventured into a The children will be taken on field full-fledged adventure. tours to places of interest, in keeping “I love working with children,” with Ashaki’s ‘love of the outdoors’.

Ashaki confessed as she went about Indoor activities are aimed at refining preparation for the stimulating the mind and engendering operations. positive development.

Children between three months and “To give service is something I four years will be accommodated daily. always wanted to do,” Ashaki Ashaki is offering a sanctuary for asserted. (WKA) children between ages five and 12 years whose parents may have extended working hours, and for those with children under four years who have to rush to pick up their siblings at four or even five o’clock.

Ashaki assures that the children will be properly fed and secured.

Those parents who want to attend a special activity, say perhaps Carnival, graduation, or anniversary celebration, need not worry about what to do with the children. Ashaki’s Ashaki preparing learning aids as she Child Development Centre prepares for the grand opening.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 21.

ÂA good year,Ê says SVGCA President the overall development of the sport.”

He listed among the achievements: the opening of the Lennox John National Cricket Academy; hosting a successful Regional Female tournament; facilitating the Junior Secondary School tournament; organizing and seeing to completion of all local competitions, including the Zonal Under 15 tournament; staging of the Annual Awards and Gala Dinner.

In addition, the President referred to the rise of local cricketers to the regional and international levels, citing in testimony, two international players in the West Indies senior team, five players contracted in the Windward Volcanoes Franchise and five players selected to the Windward Islands Under 19 team, Dr. Shallow held out much recognition for the Lennox John Cricket Academy, expressing a strong conviction The Executive of the SVG Cricket Association came in for that the programme praise and thanks from President Shallow. contributed directly to the improved performance of the DR. KISHORE SHALLOW, December, 2017 at the National Under 15 team. He President of the SVG Cricket Presidential Suite at the described the Academy as “…a Association, is pleased with the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, solid foundation for youth work of his Executive over the Dr. Shallow said, “We were programme.” past year, 2017. able to embark on a number of By way of incentive to Addressing the AGM of the initiatives which we achieved, players involved in the SVGCA held on Saturday 30th and continue to work towards national competitons, the

President highlighted the increased prize money paid out over the last season; an increase from $3,000 to $5,000 for the Premier Division; from $1,500 to $3,000 for the First Division; and $2,2000 for the female competition.

As far as generation of its own funds was concerned, Dr. Shallow, who also serves as a Director of Cricket West Indies Inc., expressed satisfaction with the earnings from the Lotto Booth, currently the lone means of generating funds to the association, and alluded to plans for another Booth.

Dr. Shallow, though, lamented the failure to host international matches as one of the s of concern, admitting, “We haven’t had any international matches for a while mainly due to the lack of a minimum four-star Hotel, which is the required standard to host international teams.

Hope is on the horizon in addressing this pre-requisite, as indications are that the Buccament resort will reopen soon.

Looking ahead into 2018 and beyond, the President outlined a change in format for matches in the Premier Division and the introduction of a National Club Championship; spoke of an

Dr. Kishore Shallow,President of the SVG Cricket Association, is satisfied that much was achieved in 2017. effort to install batting cages in a number of communities; promised the implementation of the Strategic Plan for 2018 — 2021; identify for continuing focus the construction of an indoor facility as a joint initiative with private investors if need be; and the launch by November 2018, of a book that chronicles the history of cricket in SVG. Of course, the President expressed gratitude to his executive, sponsors, teams, managers, coaches and all who supported his Association’s effort over 2017, and hoped for continued support.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Senior netballers head for tri-nation series in Grenada ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Senior Netball team has been included as part of a trination tournament, along with Grenada and St Lucia, with the sole purpose of gaining ranking points on the International Netball Federation (INF) list.

The tournament is scheduled for the weekend of 12th to 14th January, at Tanteen Netball Complex in Grenada.

SVG opens against Grenada on Friday 12th January, and the following day meets St Lucia.

Host Grenada and St Lucia play in the final match on Sunday. All matches are scheduled to get going at 7pm.

Seen as a lifeline for St Vincent and the Grenadines, who has not been part of any tournament since its last outing in St Lucia in 2010, President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association- Doris Mc Intosh explained the importance of grabbing this latest window to have the national team active.

“We have not participated in a tournament for a long time, and this is an opportunity for us at least, to start off with two matches and during the year get up to the eight required matches to again be a ranked team in the world,” Mc Intosh stated.

Mc Intosh related that whilst some of the inactivity was the SVGNA‘s own undoing, they have had to endure several disappointments.

The Nnational Netball President recalled having already prepared for the Atlantic Cup in St Maarten in October 2016, only to be told that the tournament was cancelled.

SVG had already cancelled their airline tickets to St. marten, only to learn that the tournament would proceed, albeit with fewer teams.

Mc Intosh also recalled last August.

Everything was again in place to travel to St Lucia for an Americas Federation of Netball

Association (AFNA) qualifiers, only for that tournament to be deferred and eventually cancelled.

“So we want to take this opportunity to go to Grenada as surely it will give us some rating points, as it will have full certified INF umpires…

And, we will be going to Barbados later this year for an AFNA tournament, a tournament in which we must participate, where again we will pick up more points,” Mc Intosh said.

Mc Intosh indicated that her association was informed only recently about the confirmation of the tri-nation series in Grenada.

“We are making every effort to go to Grenada, but we are still short of finances to do so, but we are hopeful that in the coming days, this can be realised through the kind-hearted corporate St Vincent and others, as St Vincent and the Grenadines attempt to once again be a Netball force in the Caribbean,” Mc Intosh said.

A team of ten players, a coach and manager will travel to Grenada for the tri- nation series, all things being equal.

In order for teams to earn points on the ranking table, teams have to be engaged in a minimum of eight competitive matches during the period under

President of the SVGNA – Doris Mc Intosh review. In addition, to have a ranking, a team must have played at least two matches versus a rated team.

At present, there are 39 ranked teams and 5 teams with ratings.

V

22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

North of the border DOMESTIC cricket is set to begin January 13 with a North Leeward outfit hoping to create an impression at the Premier level. This is the cream of Vincentian cricket, and the cricketers have a point to prove, i.e. that they can be as good as players from other parts of the state.

North Leeward, going under the name of Providence Electronics Solutions, captured the First Division title. That competition, as astounding as it represents for the North Leeward squad, was not of the greatest intensity. The North Leeward team will find themselves in unfamiliar territory, having to change over to the two-day affair.

How will they respond is to be seen. There is the drift away from the longer version of the game, where the wits are more severely tested.

With the fast flowing flavour which overtakes the senses, it will be interesting to see how the story unfolds.

Examples to youngsters are few and the attraction continues to erode.

North Leeward has the chance of establishing some superiority by virtue of home advantage.

That will be restricted to geographical factors. For in terms of knowledge of playing conditions, each team will start at zero.

The venue is a recent accomplishment, and while it has proven to have had sufficient purification, the challenge will be how it stands the test of time.

Cumberland will be venue for the North Leeward matches. That will amount to a reduction in travel costs to them. The visitors on the contrary will incur expenses which will not have been if the options were Buccament at the extreme, or Arnos Vale.

The scenery will be worth the additional cost, and those who make the trip will enjoy the splendour that is on offer.

That venue will improve and become more amenable as time wears on. The sightscreens will enhance the venture. There is need for provisions commensurate with the majesty of the surroundings.

VINLEC will be expected to fulfil their end of the bargain with the extension of its services at the Playing Field.

Sporting authorities will have to find innovative measures for the arena with activities off the field to complement the battle on the turf.

Spectators from North Leeward have a duty to cheer on their players. Thoughts of such an offering were distant hitherto.

A new era heralds for the nation. Let everyone contribute to sustainable development.

National Cricket bowls off FLOW RADCLIFFE will be looking to retain their Premier Division title, while newly promoted First Division Champion Providence Electronics North Leeward will be looking to make an impact at the higher level, when the National Premier and First Division Cricket Competition bowls off this weekend.

In fact, the two champions will open the Premier Division season when they clash this weekend at the Arnos Vale One Playing Field.

Play in that division continues next weekend with Team Rivals facing Police Two at Park Hill, and Victors One taking on Guardian General Saints at Sion Hill.

Six teams will contest this division.

The First Division fixtures will feature twelve teams registered for battle, beginning with clashes between ASCO and Keegan’s

Bequia X1, Radcliffe and Police, follow at the conclusion of the SVG Cooperative Bank National 50 Overs Club Glamorgan United and Victors Championship. Victors One are Two and Smashers and Strike the defending champions.

Eagles at Park Hill.

The Female 40 overs This year will see a slight competition is set to commence in change in the format in the February. United Survivors are Premier Division. The six teams the defending champions. will play each other once in a twoday format, followed immediately I.B.A.ALLEN by a limited overs competition. This format replaces the two rounds of the twoday format employed last year.

Following the completion of competition in both Divisions, the four top teams from each division will engage in a National 50 Overs Club Championship.

The Neil Williams 20/20, involving some FLOW Radcliffe -Premier Division defending eighteen teams, will champions.

Track and Field season gets early start THE 2018 TRACK and Field season of Team Athletics SVG opens this Saturday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, with a development meet, from 9:30am.

The meet features track events over 150m, 300m, 600m, 1000m, 1200m, along with field events — the Long Jump, Shot Put and Discus.

Age groups to be contested are U-11, U-13, U-15, U-17, U-19 and open, for both males and females.

Athletes eligible for the U-11 age group must be born 2008 and later, with U-13, 2006 and later; U-15, 2004 and later, and U-17, 2002 and later.

U-19 athletes who want to be part of this Saturday’s development meet, should be born in the 2000 and later, while for

the open age group, 1999 and state to complete the remaining earlier. period of his stint, and would be The Development Meet, apart on hand at the Development from gauging athletes’ conditions Meet, to assess his charges. early in the season, would also The second Development Meet provide an avenue for those on the calendar is scheduled again selected for specialised training in for the Arnos Vale Playing Field the areas of the Shot Put and on 13th January.

Discus.

Over the past three months, Throws Specialist- Paul Phillip has been here, conducting LEGENDARY former captain, Sir Vivian sessions with a Richards, believes someone in the current West view to identify Indies setup should have picked up on fast bowler talents in the Ronsford Beaton’s suspect action before he Javelin, Discus reached international level. and Shot Put. Beaton was reported to the International Phillip Cricket Council for a suspect bowling action, returns to the following the second One-Day International against New Zealand in Christchurch last week.

The 25-year-old Guyanese had made his debut in the first ODI in Whangarei just days prior.

Beaton previously represented West Indies Under-19s, West Indies A and was also called up for the Afghanistan Twenty20s earlier this year, though he failed to get a game.

Sir Viv said with the player having gone through so many of the different stages of West Indies cricket, the onus was on coaches to identify these types of flaws.

“He [Windies bowling coach Roderick Estwick] is supposed to have the know-how and the technical knowledge as to how to get these guys and correct them, and these guys [players] would have been through that particular department for Grenadian Throws Coach- Paul Phillip, observing quite some time to try and rectify all that,” Sir a female Shot Putter at the Arnos Vale Two Playing Viv told the Observer newspaper.

Field.

“Here now, he goes on tour and he is reported and especially around individuals who would have been given the responsibility to make sure that this guy, all is fine with him and that’s why he is on tour, so somebody dropped the ball somewhere guys.”

Beaton is the second West Indies bowler in the last five months to be reported for a suspect action, with part-time off-spinner Kraigg Brathwaite suffering the same fate following the first Test against England last August.

Brathwaite was subsequently cleared by the ICC to resume bowling following a range of tests on his action. (Source: CMC)

Sir Viv knocks WI cricket technical team

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 05, 2018. 23.

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F O R

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MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL TO COME SOON

by DAYLE DA SILVA THIS COUNTRY is expected to take steps towards establishing a medical marijuana industry.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves gave indication of this when, at a press briefing on Tuesday 2nd January, he said that he was hoping to present a Bill in Parliament on the issue, by the end of the first quarter of 2018.

He disclosed that he had spent some time last weekend with Agriculture Minister Saboto Caesar and a legal consultant, discussing the issue of establishing a medical marijuana industry here.

“I am not talking yet about decriminalization of small amounts for recreational or religious use… that is for a much longer debate. I want to see us have a business in medical marijuana,” he told media practitioners.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, he wanted to focus on medical marijuana as an industry, and was desirous of seeing, encouraging, both foreign and domestic investment.

Marijuana as a plant, has many beneficial uses, he acknowledged, but given its narcotic properties, it has been misused and abused, and that is why the law has been addressing the misuse of the plant.

The process at this stage, he explained, dealt with what he described as “the beneficial use,” adding that certain prerequisites had to be put in place, e.g. a regime that would dictate the cultivation of the plant and laboratory facilities to extract the useful elements.

He reiterated that the government was serious about the medical marijuana issue, and he called for serious discussion on the issue.

“I just can’t wait indefinitely,” he said.

THE VINCENTIAN is aware of the many inquiries and overtures that have been made of and to this country with respect to its potential to capitalise on an already established marijuana cultivation, albeit illegal.

A recent as November, a party of Canadian interests visited SVG and held discussions

In November 2017, Forbes Business projected that the Global Marijuana Market would ‘soon’ hit US$31.4 with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Minister of Agriculture.

The proposed action

by SVG on the issue of marijuana use follows on steps taken by other CARICOM members — Jamaica, Belize - to decriminalise the use of small amounts of marijuana and, in the case of Jamaica, the setting in place of a legislative structure/regime and processes establishing a medical marijuana industry.

All of this comes

amidst the deliberations of a Regional Commission on Marijuana that was established by the decision of the Twentyfifth Inter-Sessional Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government, in March 2014 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Commission, headed by Prof. RoseMarie-Bell Antoine, Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, was mandated, inter alia: ‘to conduct a rigorous enquiry into the

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

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves could take the credit for having initiated the ‘marijuana discussion’ at the CARICOM Heads of Government level. social, economic, health and legal issues surrounding marijuana use in the Caribbean, and to determine whether there should be a change in the current drug classification of marijuana, thereby making the drug more accessible for all types of usage (religious, recreational, medical and research); to recommend,

if there is to be a reclassification, the legal and administrative conditions that shall apply.’

Dr. Gonsalves had taken the lead in galvanizing this action by the Heads of Government of CARICOM members.

Editor’s Note: See related story on page 5.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.