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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 13, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.41

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Deputy COP offers condolences in police shooting

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS “PERHAPS NOW that one of the culprits has been shot, the burglaries would stop. I’m sorry that that boy had to get himself killed, but he should have known that if he played with fire he would get burn, sometime.”

That was the comment of one resident of Cane Garden, made following the fatal shooting by police of a burglar, who had invaded yet another residence in that community, one of the more ‘built-up’ areas on mainland St. Vincent.

Reports are that police shot and killed Leon ‘Buyaka’ Samuel of New Montrose, while he was in the act of committing burglary at the home of an Arab businessman, around 4:00pm last Tuesday.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the police were called to the scene by another resident, who had spotted Samuel and another man, as they were about to enter the businessman’s abode.

That resident was reportedly the victim of a

burglary the day before.

Indications are that the men had already entered the house and packed a duffle bag of items, before the police arrived.

Leon ‘Buyaka’ Samuel, known to the Having surrounded courts here, met his death in the act of the property, the lawmen shouted to the notching up another successful burglary. men to exit the Ricardo Bacchus of Long Wall building. When they appeared not to heed the lawmen’s request, with burglarising the Majestic Express Building and the Fred J the officers stormed the house.

Dare and Co Ltd stores, and In the act of doing so, Samuel stealing money amounting in is said to have attacked and total to some $62,000, in 2016. wounded a police officer with a Cane Garden has been a crow bar, upon which the police ‘popular playground’ for burglars, opened fire and he was hit. maybe because of its perceived Samuel was taken to the affluence.

Milton Cato Memorial Hospital Residents speak of a spate of where he was pronounced dead. burglaries in the area dating The other assailant, identified back to 2015. as George Kirk Williams of Sion They report that most of these Hill, remains in police custody. burglaries have been committed A white Toyota Corolla (motor during daylight hours, as many car), parked some distance away houses are not occupied during from the scene of the burglary, working hours. was said to have been This has, according to one impounded. It is, one source said, resident, “necessitated the being considered as a getaway installation of burglar bars or vehicle for teh burglars. expensive security systems by Both Samuel and many home owners.”

Williams were currently Calls have been made for on bail. increased police patrols in the Samuel had been jointly charged with area, but some residents say that this call does not seem to have Williams and been heeded by the local constabulary.

Many homes in Further consternation has Cane Garden, set in among residents whose especially those homes have been burglarized. occupied by retired They claim that many of those senior citizens, cases remain unresolved, as is have become the case with this publication’s virtual jails, with editor, whose home at Cane burglar bars Garden was burglarized, in installed on every November 2015. window and entrance/exit.

Continued on Page 3.

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER of Police Colin John, performing duties as Acting Commissioner in the absence of Commissioner Renold Hadaway (Ag.), currently on vacation leave, has offered condolences to the family of 34-year-old Leon ‘Buyaka’ Samuel of New Montrose, who was shot dead by police, during a burglary at Cane Garden on Tuesday.

Even as he offered And John has condolences to the family assured that the of Leon Samuel, Depity Police High Command would put COP Colin John appealed to family members to help things in place to keep their relatives away ensure that a Coroner’s Inquest is from a life of crime. conducted as quickly as possible, to determine the circumstances surrounding Samuel’s death.

“It is very difficult losing a relative under whatever circumstances,” John told THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, adding, “(But) family members must use their influence to encourage their relatives not to embark on a life of crime.”

The Deputy Commissioner explained that, “The law gives the police the authority to use reasonable force under certain circumstances, and one such circumstance is the protection of their lives.”

John said that, according to his information, around 4 p.m. on Tuesday, police received a report of burglary at the home of a businessman at Cane Garden. The lawmen responded promptly, and met Samuel and Kirk Williams, 37, of Sion Hill on the premises where the burglary was reported to have occurred.

According to the information, Samuel attacked one of the officers with a crowbar and the officer responded by shooting him in the chest. He was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Williams, who was unharmed, was apprehended at the scene and taken into police custody.

The Deputy Commissioner said he could not give further details on the matter as it was under investigation, and up to press time Wednesday, Williams was assisting the police with those investigations.

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2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Victim dies, charge upgraded to murder Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS ASBERT RODNEY, an 18year-old Edinboro youth, who was facing a charge of attempted murder, had the charge upgraded to murder on Wednesday,

following the death of the victim, Christopher Wilson, last Sunday evening.

Wilson, also of Edinboro, was reportedly struck in the head with a blunt object during an incident in that community on September

22. An autopsy conducted on Tuesday, revealed that Wilson died as a result of blunt trauma to the head.

Rodney made an appearance at the Serious Offences Court yesterday (Thursday) on

the murder charge. He was not required to plead, and was remanded.

When Rodney first appeared in that Court, September 25, charged with attempted murder, he was remanded on the

grounds that Wilson was warded at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, in a semi-conscious state.

When he returned to Court on October 2 to have the issue of bail reviewed, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the Court that, according to information received by the investigator, Wilson’s condition had not improved, and that he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Hospital. As a result, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne further remanded the accused, and informed him that the issue of bail would again be looked at in the next seven days.

However, when Rodney returned to Court on Monday,

Asbert Rodney – remains on remand this time the result of a murder charge.

October 9, Corporal Biorn Duncan of the Major Crime Unit (MCU) gave confirmation that Wilson had died. As a result, Rodney was kept on remand.

Rodney was unrepresented during his appearances at the Serious Offences Court on the attempted murder charge, September 25 and October 2.

Youth fined for ganja possession A 26-YEAR-OLD MAN, originally from Rose Bank, was on Wednesday fined $2,800 for possession of 1,431 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.

Raffique Williams, originally of Rose Bank, was ordered to pay the Court $1,000 forthwith or six months in prison, and the balance by January 31 or ten months behind bars.

Williams was charged jointly with Raheem Edwards, also originally of Rose Bank. However, while Williams pleaded guilty to the charge, Edwards maintained his innocence, and the prosecution withdrew the charge against him.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne handed down the penalty at the Serious Offences Court.

The facts revealed that members of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) had arrested the men at Kingstown around 4 p.m., February 10. The defendants were standing in the parking lot at the back of the Postal Corporation, and Williams consented to a search of a black and brown bag he was carrying.

The drug contained in taped packages, was found during the search.

In mitigation, Williams’ lawyer, Carlos James pointed out that Williams was the caretaker of a family of six, including his elderly parents, and his two children ages 1 and 2.

James said that his client was a sailor by profession, but had not been recalled to the ship for quite some time, and was without the financial means to assist his family.

Noting that his client was 26, and a first time offender, James stressed that, “rehabilitation is a strong option and possibility in this case”. He requested a fine, and that Williams be given time to pay.

The Chief Magistrate contended that a custodial sentence would not be appropriate in the circumstance, and imposed the fine.

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News 3

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 3.

Debt to GDP ratio increases:

GovÊt looking for debt relief: PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF FINANCE Dr Ralph Gonsalves announced in Parliament last week that this country had recently secured debt relief amounting to EC$180 million.

“The instrument has been signed by the authorities in that country. I have been informed of it, but have not yet received the instrument,” Gonsalves said.

There have been other bits of debt relief granted over the years, the Prime Minister said, including debt relief for an amount left by the previous New Democratic Party (NDP administration, and that was granted by the British government, and

the EC$117 million debt relief he received in 2007 in relation to the Ottley Hall Marina project.

But according to Gonsalves, he is always seeking to have debt relief for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

This was part of his response to a question put forward by Parliamentary Representative for East Kingstown, Arnhim Eustace, for Gonsalves to indicate the current debt to GDP ratio, and to include the figures for the past 5 years.

It was revealed that the debt to GDP ratio up to the end of December 2016 stood at almost 81 percent, with central government’s debt to

GDP ratio being placed at 65 percent and public corporations’ debt to GDP ratio at 16 percent.

With an asset such as the international airport, Gonsalves said that it was expected that there would be an increase in the debt profile.

“That (the airport) has inched the debt to GDP up, but some of that we are getting off,” he said.

In 2015, the debt to GDP ratio stood at 79 percent, with government at 68 percent and public corporations at 11 percent; in 2014 the overall number was 78 percent, government 67 percent and public corporations 11 percent; in 2013 the numbers

were 74 percent for the overall debt to GDP and 63 and 11 percent for government and public corporations, and in 2012 the figure was 71 percent with 61 percent by the government and 11 percent by public corporations.

But while there were big capital projects that helped to increase the debt to GDP ratio, Gonsalves said that one area where central government has been incurring a lot of debt is for natural disasters.

“About 15 percent of the debt portfolio for central government is for natural disasters,” the Prime Minister said.

He continued by indicating that the

Over one million paid in settlements A TOTAL OF EC$1.674 MILLION has been paid out in cases brought against the state, within the past five years.

This was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves in Parliament last week, in response to a question posed by Marcia Barnwell, Opposition Senator.

Barnwell has asked the PM to give the number of cases brought against the State within the past five years, to indicate how many have been resolved and what was the amount awarded in each settlement.

In addition to the

amount expended, Gonsalves indicated further that there were fifty-four High Court cases and one magisterial matter brought against the State, in the last five years.

Of that number, 13 were resolved: four being withdrawn or discontinued, two settled by consent, one struck out, three determined in favour of the State and three went against.

Gonsalves explained that the value of the awards for the five-year period inclusively amounted to

Right: Senator Marcia Barnwell, a lawyer by profession, may just have brought out a degree of accountability by the government with respect to matters affecting the state.

EC$104,681.75.

However, payments made for cases that would have started before that five-year period are what amounted to over one million, the Prime Minister explained.

This prompted him to say that there was a misconception that members of the public would be unsuccessful in their bid to bring a case

against the State.

“So one of the good things coming from this question is to show there is an independent judiciary in this country, and that there are persons who bring cases against the State and won, and there are persons who bring cases and they lose,” he explained. (DD)

Arnhim Eustace, Opposition spokesman on the Economy, asked about the Debt to GDP ratio, and Minister of Finance Dr. Ralph Gonsalves answered accordingly.

Ministry of Finance has a debt management strategy which they were refining and developing all the time.

In that regard, government has earmarked $20m to $25m of a $66.6.m soft loan from the International Development Association

(IDA)/World Bank for serving the public debt, and $20m for the modern port project.

And while the government was determined in its efforts to negotiate debt relief, Gonsalves warned that this was no quick process. (DD)

Cane Garden residents uneasy Continued from Frontpage.

It is not uncommon, as happened the very night of the burglary involving Samuel and Williams, to hear gunshots being discharged during the night, in this East Kingstown community.

One resident posited that it seems that “Cane Garden people” are prepared to take whatever action is necessary to protect self and property, “all within the confines of the law.”

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4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Parliament

Abandoned vehicles and sand are a problem ABANDONED VEHICLES and the dumping and piling of sand and other building materials on the sides of roads, are preventing contractors from doing an efficient job in repairing roads, particularly in the Redemption Sharpes community.

The issue surfaced last week in Parliament when Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, St Clair Leacock asked about the status of several roads in the constituency, and whether anything was going to be done to repair

them.

One of the areas in question were side streets in Sharpesdale, to which the Minister of Transport and Works, Senator Julian Francis responded that he has asked for assistance by the area representative to go on a campaign to have derelict vehicles moved off the roads.

“Every single side street in Sharpesdale is littered with abandoned vehicles,” Francis said.

He contended that the contractors working in the area have made numerous complaints that they have had to pave around tyres and bumpers, so when the vehicle is eventually moved, it looks as though the contractors do not know what they are doing because the repair The removal of derelict vehicles is proving problematic in SVG.

work looks incomplete.

Francis said that he has made several requests for residents to stop dumping and stock piling building materials on the road.

Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, Daniel Cummings joined in the discussion, saying the issue of removing abandoned vehicles was also a legal one.

Cummings said that he has sought the assistance of the police and public health, and the response from them has been that they cannot move it because they risk being sued by the owner.

But Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves rose to explain that between the police and the CWSA, they had the authority to take action.

He explained the procedure as being one in which the owner of the

vehicle is tracked down, but in the event that they cannot locate an owner, then a notice is

Heaps of dirt and sand along the sides of road preventing scheduled road repairs. left — and once the relevant guidelines were followed, it s then for the owner to try and win the

authorities in a court.

“They cannot win you,” Gonsalves said. (DD)

Opposition chided MINISTER of Transport and Works, Senator Julian Francis chided members of the Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) for their failure to participate in the segment during last week Thursday’s Meeting of Parliament, which was dedicated to the former Attorney General, Judith Jones-Morgan.

When Francis got up to respond to question 6 posed by Parliamentary Representative for the Southern Grenadines, Terrence Ollivierre, he said that he had many questions and that he usually enjoyed responding to questions on roads, “But today I have a very hollow feeling in my stomach, Mr. Speaker. I don’t know if I can answer them properly.”

Francis explained the source of his ‘hollowness’ as being the fact that the nine members of the opposition did not contribute to the segment dedicated to recognizing the former Attorney General.

But before he could continue, he was interrupted by Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, Daniel Cummings, who objected to Francis’ comments, saying that they were not conforming to the rules of Parliament, and that he ought to respond to the question.

“It is irrelevant to the question,” Cummings argued.

But the Minister of Works said that he wanted to explain the reason for the seeming lack of enthusiasm that was being demonstrated during the delivery of his response.

Speaker of the House, Jomo Thomas intervened, saying that he understood the motive, and had a clear indication of Francis’ intentions.

Francis did not proceed further, save and except to say it might have been better that he said what he had to say in the House as opposed to on radio, because then he will say it worse.

There has been something of a history of loggerheads between the opposition New Democratic Party and the former Attorney General.

Back in 2010, The segment of for example, the the last sitting of then Leader of the parliament given Opposition, over to a sendoff Arnhim Eustace for former called for her Attorney General resignation, Judith Jonesfollowing a ruling by the High Court Morgan did not attract any for her husband, Desmond Morgan, contribution from the Opposition to pay EC$2.251 million to the then which Senator Francis sought to National Commercial Bank make a parliamentry (NCB), as repayment of loans issue. and interest that had accumulated..

The records show, Jones-Morgan was this country’s longest serving Attorney General, having spent 16 and a half years in that capacity from April 2001 to September 2017.

She also was the first woman to be appointed Attorney General.

During her tenure, over 325 enactments and over 100 amendments were prepared and passed in Parliament.

Additionally, some 400 rules and statutory orders were issued during her time as AG. Those who offered commendations to Jones-Morgan included Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Deputy PM Sir Louis Straker, Parliamentary Representatives Saboto Caesar and Camillo Gonsalves, and Senator Carlos James. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 5.

News

Fallen crane causes traffic back-up

Below: The crane lay as though in slumber, across the entire width of the road.

SOME RESIDENTS of the Grand Gate, Lowmans Hill community have described a certain incident that occurred in their area as a first-time experience.

They were reacting to a road ‘mishap’ in which a crane, travelling from Kingstown along the Leeward highway on Tuesday 10th October, on reaching the Grand Gate area, tipped over on its side and blocked the entire width of the road.

The incident is said to have occurred around 9:30am, and the back-up of traffic occasioned thus, extended for another three hours or so.

The crane, TP 300, said to be owned by Eustace Auto Supplies, was driven by Robert Renee of Belair. He was the lone occupant and escaped injury.

According to a statement from the driver, the incident occurred after “the vehicle just shut off and the crane started going backwards then turn over.”

As a result of the incident, commuters had to bypass the crane on foot, by way of a narrow pathway at one end of the prostrated crane.

Commuters travelling from the Leeward into Kingstown had to alight their buses and join buses which were caught on the other side of the crane, in order to make their onward journey.

It was a test of patience for private vehicle owners/drivers, caught on either side of the prostrated crane for the better part of three hours.

The crane was eventually able to continue on its way, but only after the assistance of a back-hoe was solicited to put it back on its wheels.

And not before, however, loud calls, by irate commuters and others, for an alternate route to be established for vehicles heading to and from the Leeward side.

According to one mini bus driver, “Ah only dis road we could use to get into town; there is no other way by land a van could reach town once they have a accident here (Grand Gate). In dis time and age, dem na ha no other road for arwe to pass, so dem need fo deal with this.”

Meanwhile, a police

source opined that the crane was not properly maintained, causing it to malfunction when least expected.

“You can’t have your heavy equipment just going on sight, doing work and you are not doing a proper check after the function of the equipment. You need to know that your equipment is serviced well and it is in proper working condition, because it has to be working well on the road,” the officer,on condition of anonymity said.

“If you know you have faulty heavy equipment, you have to check them out, because when these things lose control like in these events, you have to these vehicles where they the inspection, “it is say praise God there isn’t are based. He, however, important for the owners a loss of life. Because if reiterated that even after to maintain them since these things happen in populated areas, you could have a loss of lives,” the officer added.

As far as the responsibility of the Traffic Department to ensure the road worthiness of heavy duty equipment was concerned, the officer explained, that Traffic Department officers would normally inspect

Commuters who had disembarked mini-buses caught on the Leeward side of the van, found a narrow pathway (left) past the crane, in order to make their onward journey into Kingstown.

they face a lot of wear and tear.” (KH)

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6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Vincy group honours three

organization,” said VINCI’s vice president, Wayne Raguette, a political consultant in Brooklyn, deputizing for the ill president, Augustus McMillan. “They have and continue to provide VINCENTIAN AMERICAN guidance and assistance to Independent National Charities, many in our community in their Inc. (VINCI), a Vincentian, respective field — without Brooklyn, New York-based group, fanfare and without looking for on Sunday, honored three rewards. outstanding community “Our bestowing of honor on personalities at its 34th them is just a small token to Anniversary Luncheon at El Caribe demonstrate our appreciation Country Club in the Mill Basin and to offer encouragement,” section of Brooklyn. added Raguette, an Old Those on whom honours were Montrose, Kingstown-born bestowed were podiatrist and native. ex-Brooklyn legislator Dr. Congresswoman Clarke Kendall Stewart, cultural figure congratulated the “distinguished Ainsley Primus and athletics honorees, three outstanding director Damani Thomas.

Vincentian citizens who are The honour ceremony was deserving of recognition.,” part of a gala affair which also adding that “the broader marked the group’s celebration community of the people of of St. Vincent and the Vincentian descent in New York Grenadines’ 38th year of have, undoubtedly, made political independence, and enormous contributions to this included among the attendees: country and this community, in Congresswoman Yvette D. areas including academics, civil Clarke (D-9th Congressional service, athletics, business, District); St. Vincent and the politics and law.”

Grenadines United Nations Ambassador King applauded Ambassador I. Rhonda King; “the objectives of this initiative,” and St. Vincent and the and acknowledged “the work of Grenadines New York Consul this year’s awardees.”

General Howie Prince.

“As we gather each year to celebrate the independence of Commendations our beloved homeland, it is fitting that space is created each “Our honorees today — year, whereby due recognition is Damani Thomas, Dr. Kendall paid to the outstanding Stewart and Ainsley Primus contributions of Vincentians in reflect the spirit of our the Diaspora,” she said.

Stories and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

Ainsley Primus

Damani Thomas Prince commended the honorees, stating that each merits “loud praise for their extemporary contribution in their respective fields of endeavor,” adding, “a grateful people say thank you for standing so tall among us,” before asking patrons to raise their glasses in a toast to the honorees.

Acceptance In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Stewart, the Union Island, St. Vincent Grenadines-born former representative for the 45th Council District in Brooklyn, and who was recognized for his work in medicine and politics, said that “a person who has the skills to lead but does not exercise that

York, Inc., for whom he requested special prayers from the patrons.

Thomas, the Sion Hill, Kingstown-born Director of Athletics, Recreation and Intramurals at the Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, said he was Dr. Kendall Stewart “very happy for this award.

“Throughout my life, I skill is no better than someone learn about accountability,” he who is incapable,” and said. “For me, my life has to be encouraged patrons to, among an example to others. other things, “govern “I have to live a life, where themselves accordingly, exercise I can give back,” he added. “I self-control, be independent love sports, and sports is a way thinkers, creatively handle to give back. I’m happy to be disappointments, understand giving back to others.” the art of conciliation, be good mobilizers and be reliable.”

VINCI Primus, the Arnos Valeborn president of the Dynamite According to Raguette, Calypso Tent, the only VINCI has been in existence Vincentian-owned Calypso Tent for almost four decades, adding in New York City, said he was that the group is committed to delighted to receive the award fulfilling its motto: “Where need “not only on behalf of myself but exists we pledged to assist.” on behalf of the many who Over the years, he said the inspired, encouraged and group has assisted through supported me on this journey,” scholarships to high school identifying among them students, and has provided Maxwell Haywood, the ailing financial assistance to others for president of the Brooklyn-based medical expenses and other St. Vincent and the Grenadines needs.

Diaspora Committee of New

Relief efforts for Caribbean countries commendable NEW YORK CONSUL General Howie Prince has described as “commendable” and “encouraging,” combined efforts to date, by the New York Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Consular Corps and the Brooklyn-based Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A., Inc. (COSAGO), in gathering relief supplies for Caribbean countries ravaged by recent hurricanes.

Prince, who spearheaded the initiative, told THE VINCENTIAN that, for the past three weeks, several members of the corps — such as Dominica, Guyana, Barbados and Belize — have collaborated with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines New York Consulate General, COSAGO and several Vincentian groups in New York, as well as

individuals, in “mobilizing” the emergency supplies at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Centers in Brooklyn.

He said, in the threeweek period, volunteers from several Caribbean countries “received, sorted and packed” the donated items.

As of (last week) Monday, Prince said the groups have received 23 commercial bins (equivalent to 69 barrels) of supplies, 22 jumbo barrels and 205 cases of water.

He also said the organizations have collected US$1,500 in cash and US$1,558 from the sale of liquid refreshments.

In addition, the Vincentian diplomat said the Dominica Consulate General in New York had organized its own relief drive, “which was

Volunteers sort and pack barrels of supplies. incredibly successful.”

Dominica and Barbuda, the sister island of Antigua, were particularly ravaged by hurricanes Maria and Irma, respectively.

Prince said the CARICOM Consular Corps is also coordinating relief drives in other US cities and plans to host a grand concert, featuring “the best of the region’s

artistes,” to continue the relief efforts.

“We are extremely grateful to all who made donations, as well as those who volunteered during the past three weeks,” he said.

COSAGO president, Laverne McDowaldThompson, said: “Humanitarianism was at its best during the relief drives.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ New York Consul General Howie “The outpouring of Prince addresses support from the people in volunteers during relief the Diaspora showed an drive on Sunday. overwhelming feeling of love, care and compassion,” she said. “It warmed my heart coming together for three Sundays doing the relief drive.”

McDowald-Thompson thanked all for volunteering, particularly singling out Vincentian native Garnes Byron for

“going far and beyond.”

She said all countries devastated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria will be the beneficiaries of the collected items, including food supplies, adult and baby diapers, other baby supplies, toiletries and water.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 7.

News

Crisis Centres: One is enough

IT DOES NOT APPEAR as though the government is intent on increasing the number of Crisis Centres here.

At present, there is one Crisis Centre with a carrying capacity for a family of up to 7.

Frederick Stephenson, Minister of National

Mobilization, Social Development, Gender Affairs, hinted at this last week in Parliament, in response to a question posed by Opposition Senator Marcia Barnwell, who repeatedly asked in her supplementary question to the minister, whether

or not the government was satisfied with just the one Crisis Centre.

Initially, she had asked for the number of incidents of domestic abuse, how many Crisis Centres were available to victims in the country, and for an indication about the capacity of the

Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture (inset) is hopeful that local banana farmers can capitalize on the opening in the regional market occasioned by destruction to the banana industry in Dominica.

Opportunity opening for SVG’s bananas THE STATEMENT that St. Lucia is expected to export some 20,000 tonnes of bananas to the United Kingdom (UK) this year, is false and misleading.

This is according to Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, in part response to a question posed in Parliament by Representative for East Kingstown, Arnhim Eustace, regarding the expected date for this country’s recommencement of the exportation of bananas to the UK. “The question is premised on an expectation espoused by the government of St Lucia that the export will reach 20,000 tonnes by the end of the year,” Caesar told the Parliament.

He cited the real St. Lucia export figure as at week 40 as 6,060.59 tonnes, adding that information received from the procurement officer for WINFRESH, indicated that the expected figure by the end of the year was expected to be 9,000 tonnes.

As far as the local situation was concerned, Caesar explained that although the Black Sigatoka issue was under control, the GlobalGAP compliance was yet to be completed.

GlobalGAP is the world’s leading

farm assurance programme and is intended for fresh products, to ensure produce traceability and compliance with intellectual property laws.

This process is expected to be completed by November, and until then, this country will not be able to export bananas to the UK. WINFRESH, however, expressed an interest in selling bananas from St Vincent to the UK, Caesar said, and the ministry was currently working with two potential exporters in that respect.

And while there was nothing preventing persons in the private sector from selling their bananas on the regional market, WINFRESH has also started discussions so to do, the Minister disclosed.

With Dominica out of production, following that country’s devastation by Hurricane Maria, there was an opening for bananas in the regional market, especially in the US, British Virgin Islands and the Leeward Islands.

WINFRESH was already pursuing this and openings in St. Kitts/Nevis and Antigua. (DD)

Centre(s).

Stephenson, in his response, said that information provided by the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and the Gender Affairs Division said that there were, on average 100 cases of domestic violence reported between 2014 and 2016.

The state, according to Stephenson, had provided support in 75% of these cases.

Stephenson explained that the range of support services over a minimum of three months to a maximum of one year, included social protection, counseling, education on domestic violence legislation, housing renovation and referral for housing through the Ministry of Housing, among other

Right: Frederick Stephenson, Minister of Social development, gave indication that there are no plans on the horizon for establishing anymore Cricis centre here. things.

These services were also extended to those housed at the Crisis Centre, as part of their rehabilitation programme, which also included work with the perpetrators of abuse Victims of domestic abuse are also offered skills and entrepreneurial training, with 60 participants graduating recently, the minister said.

“Where temporary housing assistance is required during assessment, and where no other place of safety from relatives and or friends are sited, the Division recommends placement at the Crisis Centre for a minimum of 24 hours to a maximum of three months,”

Stephenson said.

During this time, interventions for protection orders are sought and investigation by police continued.

As a preventative measure, Stephenson said that the Gender Affairs Division engages in awareness in schools and communities.

“Additionally, in communities where acts of domestic violence were highest per annum, surveys and consultation and causes and dynamics of domestic violence are explored,” Stephenson said. (DD)

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8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial Tourism challenges for 2017/18 EVEN AS WE MAKE HASTE through another hurricane season and hope that nothing untoward befalls us, we must, out of commitment to sustaining economic growth, prepare for another tourist season.

Tourism, after all, we are told, is the engine of economic growth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Accordingly, therefore, we wait expectantly on the 2018 budget, to see how much priority ($$$) is allocated to drive our effort to further develop and market this major sector of economic activity.

Meanwhile, how well are we prepared for the 2017/18 season?

Further, how much have we done to ensure growth in the sector?

There are those who are wont to say that the destruction wrought on our neighbours by hurricanes Irma and Maria will work in our favour — they are, as unbecoming as it sounds, a blessing in disguise.

That said, the question is: Are we in a position to capitalize, as dreadful as it sounds, on a situation in which some of our neighbours will have to ‘forfeit’ cashing in on another ‘high’ tourist season?

If the truth be told, we have not registered any visible growth in our tourism plant. In fact, given the bottom-up picture that passes off as a resort at Buccament, we can safely say that we have less available rooms on offer to stay over visitors. Will those that we have on offer be fully subscribed? Are we working to ensure this or as close as possible to this?

The stay over visitors to our shores remain, in the main, look to enjoy the three S’s - sun, sea and sand — about which we boast oh so loudly. Expect, or hope therefore, that the Grenadines, which are the primary sources of the three S’s, will be ‘overly’ subscribed.

Those few stay over facilities on the mainland that provide close proximity to a three S’s offering, would hope that they too are favourably subscribed.

What is more troublesome in the whole tourism drive, is the cruise tourism sector. Needless to say, reports are that same day visitors have not been too pleased with what is offered.

Facilities at the few eco-tourism sites are in need of serious attention if they are to remain on the island tours offered by operators in that field. It is one thing to speak of St. Vincent as being a pristine piece of nature; it’s another thing when the sites that are meant to support this sales pitch, wallow in states of disrepair and lack of basic sanitary facilities and the like.

And those who chose to ‘walk around Kingstown’, will be greeted by a stench that would hasten their return to the sanctuary of their ships. If something is not done to clear the air of the stench, we will be repelling rather than attracting cruise ship arrivals to our state.

Add the encumbrances that plague the sidewalks of Kingstown; they serve only to put spend to ‘this unique city of arches’.

And then there is the problem of vagrants and those who are likely to harass the visitors. The vagrants blot an otherwise welcoming personality of Vincentians. Those who harass the visitors do us no good as far as our attitude to tourism is concerned.

And lest we forget, there is the sub-sector of yachting which has shown visible decline over the years. Stories abound in international journals and the worldwide web (social media) of the diminishing safety that once characterized our bays, especially in the Grenadines.

Have we sought to devise a plan of surveillance by the coast guard that will bring a sense of safety to those who would want to enjoy some of the ‘safest waters for sailing’ anywhere in the world?

This is not meant to smear a film of gloom on our efforts to attract visitors to our country. Far from that.

But the questions remain, a la an Editorial of 2008: ‘Have we made adequate provision for the continuing work to maintain, if not expand our place within the highly competitive tourism market, not to mention our place in the global market? Has a defined, a clear focus of our target areas been agreed, and have strategies been devised, manpower expertise identified, etc?’

Is this a gangster’s paradise?

OVER THE LAST TEN YEARS, I have discovered that an invisible bond binds me and two younger folks in a triangle of faith, strength and fortitude. My two younger brothers are Dr. Richard Cox and Jomo Thomas. Richard in fact, has painted a glowing picture of my national contribution by way of literature, which is a beauty to behold, even if a bit overdone.

In reality, he has named me as a model of English Literature, describing local, regional and world events. So naturally I publish him moreso, as I suspect that the relationship and his former journalistic friends have worn thin.

As usual, Richard is provocative, honest forthright and profound.

Is this a gangsters’ paradise?

By Dr. Richard A. Byron-Cox “Even while it was still “fore-day-morning” of the settlement of his administration in office, Gonsalves declared that his stewardship transformed SVG into the second-best-organised black nation on earth, clipped at the tape by Barbados. Many questioned whether Ralph had joined Alice in her world of wonder. Truth and politics are complete strangers, and Gonsalves is famous for his practice of self-praise and his crave for public idolatry. Irrespective of his thirst, rational says a society where human life is so easily dispensable can only be considered a disorganized slaughter house!!

While there has been a qualitative change in governance since Ralph ascended the throne, reality is, after his 16 years, the country seems set to be overrun by violence, Little Tokyo being the latest theatre of open warfare. He now leaves it to his know-it-all attack dog to pronounce on crime, while as minister of national security, he picks and chooses which loss of life to speak on, and which to ignore. Indeed the PM and his cousin Minister say that this rise in gun violence is drug-trade related. This is instructive, as I recall a ULP Minister of Government once provided bail for a known drug lord! But back to the now, there is no relief as October continues the murderous ways of September. If this is the hallmark of an organised society, then accommodating deadly violence must be our greatest common good!!

The above is not intended to deny the ULP’s efforts at improving policing. Such arguments would be ludicrous, but notwithstanding, some police seemed ready to effect a palace coup and remove Ralph!!

There is serious discontent in the ranks! But it is not the police who are on the victim frontline in this murder fest. It is John and Jane Public. To paraphrase Cousin Minister, I am sorry for the innocent who are accidentally murdered!! Is this the extent of

our “organised” society? Once violence gains the upper hand, national security is compromised; order takes flight; and criminals acting at will, expose the hollowness of Ralph’s childish boast.

When people are being murdered high daylight in the centre of the city; when Otley Hall is now a place where “your number can call” anytime; when murder victims’ bodies are regularly found in different parts of the land; doesn’t that make a mockery of claims that this is an organised nation? Or is it that unchecked violence makes for such a society?

And listen this. National security is Ralph’s direct responsibility, so he is the overseer for crime fighting. No, the intent here is not criticising Ralph, but exposing the fact that the government seems hapless in finding the mildest antidote to this disease that threatens malignancy.

I disagree with those in opposition who say Ralph brought this upon us, so we should elect them with their magic wand and puff!

No Ralph, no crime. However, if Ralph fails to address this crime problem, we will soon emulate the pathetic disgraces some Caribbean countries are. Neglecting his responsibility through an Ostrich response is an abdication of leadership. Ralph must act decisively now to arrest this situation if his words are not to be the echo from an empty barrel. We need an orchestrated and concerted attack on crime where everyone must strike a blow; and I believe these could form part of our arsenal: a) The police must make regular unannounced searches of the properties of known and suspected drug barons and their accomplices. These people must always be thoroughly searched on leaving and entering the country, and randomly on the streets. b) The minimum incarceration for illegal guns and or ammunitions must be 15 years, to be applied from age 17. Anyone 14 to 16 found with these weapons must be publicly flogged and placed at Liberty Lodge. c) The death penalty must be applied without undue delay. d) There must be a genuine effort to remove and jail the corrupt criminal elements in the police, and its leadership must stop this chatter about the country being “still safe,” and get to work making it safe. e) The US, Canada and Britain must be asked to jointly provide 4 helicopters to our coast guard, along with training for 24 pilots and 10 maintenance engineers in the first instance. After all, it is in their interest as well. These helicopters strategically placed will significantly improve our ability to protect our waters and course.

Continued on Page 24.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 9.

Letters

Still thinking of that cross-country road DESPITE THE BOAST ‘regarding’ the accessing of scholarships from friendly governments to fortify the ‘education revolution’, there are many areas crying out for attention. If we had really had a revolution in education, we should have by now, been better able to manage our resources, to the extent of not being so reliant on our friends, to provide us with the resources for the addressing of some small/basic needs. Our seeming unabashed mendicancy, in relation to support from the Taiwanese, has the risk of hurting our national

psyche.

What will the ordinary citizens of Taiwan think of us, when they are made aware of the frequency with which they had been having to dish out aid to us? Do we think they will hold us in high regard?

They might not have been made aware, of the extent to which their economy had benefited from the privilege of fishing under the flag of SVG, in the Atlantic Ocean. Their younger generations could think of us as “a pack of scrunters” who had almost shamelessly come to them a-

begging almost every Monday morning, as can be seen from our newspapers for years.

They might well conclude, that our leaders had not used those resources prudently, and some of them may even have enriched themselves by means of it. Can we blame them, if they should take “a dim view” of us? How will we respond, when they request a tour on that historic cross-country road on which we spent some twenty-five million dollars of their funds? They would no doubt also be displeased to learn, that the learning

resource centers which they had substantially subscribed to, have not resulted in the hoped for elevation of the people. The continued addition of hundreds of names to the ‘poor relief’ list is testimony of that.

The propensity for begging for almost everything, is ultimately not helping us in the serious development of our society, and the situation is made worse when our leaders are reckless in the use of our funds. There are quite a few cases which bear this out! The time is overdue for us to take

a serious look at where we are, and every citizen who has the capacity, should involve himself in the determination of a way forward, making good use of the resources available to us.

Those resources which are ours, on land and in the sea, are not meagre for the development and growth of the 110,000 persons resident here, but we need to improve the quality of our management, as a matter of urgency.

LeRoy Providence

I take the blame, Honouring De Man Age but who am I? MY PEOPLE OF SVG, with tears in my eyes, I humbly apologize to you, for the sufferings you were subjected to because of me.

For the lack of supplies and professionals in the health care system, I am really sorry. The monies for those things were spent on me. I believe many died as a consequence. I am honestly sorry.

For the inadequate staffing and rundown schools, I humbly apologise, and at the same time, I also apologise for: the development of craters in the roads; no increase in wages for public servants; scant regard for safety and comfort of our security forces; lack

of modern equipment to tackle crimes.

For these and more, I take the blame. The monies which should have been spent on those things were diverted to me.

To the tax payers who had to pay the wages of the workers who were supposed to be paid by a foreign country, sorry, my fellow Vincentians.

Those I did not mention due to limited space, accept my apology for not mentioning you and for the hardship you endured.

I am supposed to be the panacea for this land of ours. Be happy! All your problems will be over. Who am I? Advance In Age

Thank you THE SVG Good Hearts Foundation, in collaboration with BDS Nice Radio, extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the activities held to assist our brothers and sisters in Tortola, who fell victim to the ravages of Hurricane Irma.

The organisations express much appreciation for the positive feedback and generous donations received under the circumstances.

The total value raised in a relatively short space of time, was in excess of EC$40,000 in cash and valuables. All tangible donations have already been shipped to the BVI, and a cash donation of EC$20,000 will be made to the St Vincent & the Grenadines Association of the British Virgin Islands, headed by Mr. Devon Letteen.

Thanks again for your invaluable support.

Esworth “Ezzie” Roberts Public Relations Officer SVG Good Hearts Foundation

Editor’s Note: This letter was apparently sent to THE VINCENTIAN before the event to which it refers. For some inexplicable reason it appeared in our inbox only late last week. We think it still has some relevance, and therefore, are pleased to share it with our readers.

I am more than pleased that Errol ‘De Man Age’ Rose will receive recognition for his contribution to calypso in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in particular, and the region in general.

I know, through you, Mr. Editor, that De Man Age’s works have formed studies by students at the UWI, especially those works from the late 1970s and early 1980s. His work was considered as a major contributor to the awareness which came out of that era.

It is a pity, though, and this is no offence to the persons involved, that the group (Vincy Liberators New York) who has seen it fit to recognize the Man Age, is one that is considered

Forgive the Senator HOW MANY of you out there feel that Senator Julian Francis made an honest mistake with his utterances on the crime situation in SVG? I do.

After all, he and the ULP are under pressure like they never felt before and are, therefore, likely to make a little mistake from time to time.

We often forget that ‘to err is human’, and ‘we learn from mistakes’. No need to pick on the honourable senator for things he said. He obviously didn’t know better, or did he? Maybe one of these days we will find out the truth.

So please stop pelting criticism at the man and pulling him down. He just marking time.

Motor Mouth

to be politically associated.

Now, that in itself is not a bad thing, but I hope that it is a lead to more national recognition for a man who has not been afraid to attack the establishment — especially the political establishment - for the mistakes that they have made and continue to make.

Perhaps the Calypso Association back home could begin a programme in which they honour these outstanding calypsonians before they pass on. Let’s not make the same mistakes that we made with the Lord Hawke and Toiler, to name just two, who passed on without due recognition from their calypso brothers and sisters and the nation as a whole.

Congrats to De Man Age. You are deserving of this recognition and a lot more. Given how things have gone, I don’t think you will ever be named a Cultural Ambassador though less deserving than you have.

Keep the faith, Bro. Garnet, N.Y.

* What does a government senator know about gangs here in SVG that the police do not? Maybe the police should compare their notes with his, eh? * If the people of North Leeward remember when old people used to say, “Late invitation is for dogs.” * Is there a rental fee for use of the E. T. Joshua Airport facility? * How much did those Judicial managers appointed to look into BAICO earn? Millions??? * Is the residence at Cane Garden once occupied by Justice Frederick BruceLyle now a designated camp site?

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10. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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The NDP: confused by the Climate Change issue

The Minister of National Security is responsible for the crime situation in SVG

Introduction

(Excerpts of Press Statement by the Dr. the Hon. Godwin Friday, President of the NDP)

THE MEETING of the House of Assembly on October 5th 2017 served up more information to support the long-held view of Vincentians, that the opposition New Democratic Party is certainly not fit for government here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, certainly not in this modern era. The representative for the Southern Grenadines, Terrence Ollivierre, posed a question to the Minister responsible for Sustainable Development, Camillo Gonsalves, which proved that they are not in touch with current developmental events, and more specific, climate change.

Now, climate change is a subject that is widely discussed by a number of people, including world leaders, scientists, weather forecasters and so forth. The internet is loaded with information on this important subject, and by extension, the whole issue of green house gas emissions. It is something that most community college students who are interested in subjects related to climatology, will research or read up upon.

The question posed by Terrence Ollivierre showed that the NDP has not paid any attention to this issue.

His question was “In light of the effects of climate and the realities of the hurricane season, when is the government planning for both sides of the House of Assembly to come together and put long term policy framework in place and implement agreed agendas to mitigate the effects of hurricanes and climate change?”

At the onset, the NDP clearly do not understand the issue, in particular, ‘mitigate’ as against ‘adapt’. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not a major contributor to the green house situation, the emission of gasses which affect the ozone layer. So that while mitigation is good, and should be observed, the country’s green house emissions are so small as to be insignificant, when compared to the developed countries, and some developing countries here and there.

climate change, where he is in attendance. He has clearly brought the issue of climate change to the national agenda in a fundamental way. He has said to Vincentians that climate change is a real issue for our development plans. It is clear that we cannot do much, if any, to mitigate against climate change as the NDP says.

But as a country, we can clearly adapt to climate change to reduce some of the painful effects. We can do so in the way we build our houses, in the processes we use in land cultivation and usage, and the methods we adopt in disaster preparedness.

The NDP’s response

It is interesting to look at the attention that the NDP has paid to the issue of climate change over the last five years. It is clear from the information presented above that the NDP is at sea, when it comes to this critical developmental issue. But this is not all. Camillo Gonsalves in his answer to Terrence Ollivierre, was able to point out that the NDP, in its most recent manifesto for the 2015 general election, did not include a single word on climate change; unbelievable but true.

By way of comparison, the ULP devoted an entire section of its 2015 manifesto, on page 48, to the issue of climate change, calling it an existential issue for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This shows the importance that the ULP has attached to this all important issue, but this is hardly surprising, since it is the ULP which has the interest of the entire country of St.Vincent and the Grenadines at heart.

And there is more. During the presentation of the 2017 Budget Address, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves mentioned climate change Climate Change as an issue, from pages eight to ten.

He concluded his 2017 budget address Climate change relates to the by stating that climate change is one disturbance of weather patterns and of the ten interrelated issues for systems, over a period of time. strategic developmental focus. This is Enough has been said about the nothing new, as he made a similar reasons for this, including the role of statement in his 2016 budget address. green house gasses, particularly The truth of the matter is that the carbon dioxide, and their contribution ULP administration considers climate to the warming process in relation to change as being so important to the the earth’s climate. national development of the country, All this has created a situation that the government has created a where our weather systems have changed in a drastic way, leading to a ministry to manage this issue, and disruptive pattern; stronger and more has budgeted sums of money, to address the many problems which are frequent storms, extended droughts, created by climate change issues. The more severe winters, and shrinking evidence is clear in the many river ice sheets, which has resulted in a defence and coastal protection projects rise in the level of the sea. Small implemented by the government. The Island Developing States, SIDS, like is there, in the many relief St. Vincent and the Grenadines, have evidence efforts mounted by the ULP a particular interest in all this. The administration, to bring relief to a website www.climatecrisis.com country affected by unseasonal contains information on these rainfall, hurricanes and droughts. matters, and perhaps the NDP and It is clear to all and sundry, that their research people, can go to this St.Vincent and the Grenadines will site. have to navigate through this period But Prime Minister Dr. Ralph of change caused by climate change, Gonsalves has been “preaching” about therefore it really matters whose hand this issue for a long time. He has is on the steering wheel of the ship. spoken at the United Nations, in his Thank God it is the guiding hands of budget speeches, at his media Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and the ULP conferences, and at meetings on administration.

(Pt. 2)

THE CRIME situation must be fought on many fronts. First, one expects the immediate response to come from our law enforcement personnel. This begs the question of their training, involving having the skills and equipment to tackle crime in this era of modern technology.

Events of the past few months have shown us that there is tremendous dissatisfaction in the police service over many things, including conditions of work. The Police Welfare Association tried to have these matters addressed and, several weeks ago, its executive members debated how best to do so. We all know how that turned out! What was also manifested was a lack of respect for the police by those in authority.

Recently, members of the police service were upset by efforts to deduct money from their pay, for hurricane relief donation, without their prior knowledge and consent. Despite the efforts of the authorities to rationalise their actions, the incident showed itself as part of a deepening gulf between the rank and file and the top brass of the service. This cannot continue if we are to meet the challenge of fighting serious crime.

Under the past NDP government, community policing was advocated and fostered. The effectiveness of community policing is recognized world over. However, such policing is clearly not a priority today. It must be championed again. The police cannot on their own effectively fight crime and lawlessness. It is obvious to most of us that there is a lack of trust between the police and the population they serve.

Community policing is a way of restoring trust and making the police more effective. It would also help to remove partisan politics from the operation of police service. Let the service be strictly professional! There is more that can and will be said on the issue of the conditions of work and housing of the police; but let me focus on some other issues.

Tackling crime must be dealt with both in the short and long term. What is happening in our society leads us to the conclusion that crime cannot be simply explained as greater and easy availability of guns and of gang warfare. These are obviously part of the whole equation, but it goes beyond that, especially when we look at the involvement of young people in criminal activity. We have seen examples recently of even young women being involved, including persons who were well educated. We are of the view that, while we tackle the issue head on and immediately, we must look at the root causes.

It is because of this that we introduced the Spiritual and Social Redemption Charter in 2003 which the ruling ULP regime refused to have debated in parliament. We continue to see the need for addressing the issues raised in the Charter. In the past, we depended on the Church for guidance and work on matters of morality and addressing and up-keeping established values which we consider still very relevant today. The Church is no longer the mover in this area for a variety of

reasons, including being itself infected by the political divisiveness prevalent in the country.

Given that anti-social behaviour that can later escalate into acts of violence, is present in the schools, we believe it necessary to start in the schools reinforcing the long-held values that have over the years held our people together as members of one community, assisting each other and looking after the interests of the community.

But with all of this, the economic downturn in our society provides space and fuel for the unruly. While some applaud and speak glowingly about what is called the ‘education revolution’, the reality is that many of our school leavers, even those with university degrees, cannot find jobs.

Our education curriculum and its general direction continues to be one that certifies graduates to find jobs which are becoming scarcer and scarcer, rather than creating jobs. But even in the creation of jobs, it is necessary for us to provide the context and the environment that stimulate entrepreneurial activity and attract investment from our people in the diaspora and from foreign investors.

So, the issue of criminal activity and the skyrocketing murder rate is complex and must be tackled on all fronts. Government must, however, be caring and must put in place measures that will convince the people that it is serious about dealing with crime and violence. It must provide a platform for our communities to understand that they have a role to play in combating crime, which has gotten completely out of hand. But we also accept that we all have a role to play, and we should not wait until violence touches us personally to demand action.

The NDP pledges that this problem will be high on our political agenda in government. We do not hold the reins of government now, but are prepared to work along with others to tackle this alarming crime situation. It really cannot be business as usual; we must begin the process of taking back control of our communities, our lives and our peace of mind.

In our Manifesto, we set out what can be done to address the problems of crime and violence in the society.

To those prescriptions, I will emphasize that to address this crisis of crime and violence in our country, the ULP must be removed from office.

Ralph and his gang have failed this country and, what is more, they don’t seem to care. When they can seek to minimise the significance of the current spate of violent killings and wounding in the country, it shows that they are out of touch with the feelings of the common people.

As powerful and privileged ruling elites, they feel safe and cannot imagine that ordinary people would be worried about the murderous violence in the country! Since they do not acknowledge the problem, they cannot provide leadership in finding solutions. Therefore, the Minister of National Security must go. I am calling on him to resign immediately!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 11.

Views

Every crisis is an opportunity

“The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word ‘crisis.’ One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger—but recognize the opportunity.” – John F. Kennedy (1917from the recent damage to Barbuda, 1963) 35th President of the United the Commonwealth of Dominica, St. States of America Marten, St. Thomas, and Puerto Rico DICTIONARY.COM defines a crisis as “a as a result of the passing of the 2017 Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. time of intense difficulty or danger” or They will rebuild. The structures will “a time when an important or difficult be stronger. They will find this crisis decision must be made”. It also notes to be pregnant with opportunities for that a crisis can be described as “the improvement. We do mourn their turning point of a disease when an loss, but we have not lost hope. We important change takes place, know that there are better days indicating either recovery or death”.

We would be considered very naïve ahead. We know that the crisis of today will create golden opportunities if we were to think that we could go for better things tomorrow. through life without some form of We need to have the same resolve crisis. We know that tragedies will when a crisis hits us as individuals. visit us and/or persons close to us.

They can be very intense and seem to As difficult as it is for us to accept a sickness, an accident, or loss, we visit more often than we would like know that these can be “blessings in them to. Sometimes we may even disguise”. These traumas often pause to contemplate whether we remind us that we are overcomers. appear to be presented with more They often remind us that we have than our “fair share” of crisis. So the potential, the resolve, to overcome many of this column’s readers have great odds. Jeannette Walls captures witnessed trauma and difficulties in their relationships, finances, physical this truism so well in her book entitled “The Glass Castle” when she body, and so on. Sometimes the says, “Sometimes you need a little challenges may appear to be more crisis to get your adrenaline flowing than we can bear. However, in so many instances, we have been able to and help you realize your potential.” overcome them and/or develop coping The book describes Walls’ unusual, poverty-stricken childhood. She mechanisms that enabled us to survive the various ordeals. Now, as narrates the multiple traumas that she and her siblings had at the hands we look back, we conclude that we of their deeply dysfunctional parents. have done relatively well. We have It gives us hope to know that it really come through the fires of the crisis does not matter where we start in life being burnt and smelling smoky … or how many physical and/or but grateful that we survived. We emotional scars we bear. If we have can now use our experiences to encourage others who are about to go the tenacity and determination to strive and survive, we can turn those through, or are going through, their bouts of tragedy, disappointment, and scars into stars. Every crisis provides an opportunity for us to grow and to grief. We have been there. We have glow. extracted blessings from what may It is often difficult to observe the have initially appeared to have been a blessings that are trapped in the curse. We have found the diamond that was trapped in the lump of coal. traumas of life when we are confronted with them or when we are We know that every crisis has an going through them. It is normal for opportunity for good and for growth. us to react by focusing on the source Many Vincentians may recall the of the trauma whenever a crisis loss that we felt when Marion House occurs. It is normal for us to panic at Sally Spring (on the outskirts of capital Kingstown) went up in flames and appear fearful as we face the a few years ago. This was a physical unpleasantness and pain that they often bring. This is usually when we structure that was the resting place appreciate those tactful, caring, and refuge for many young persons who may have been physically and/or friends who (having gone through similar trials and tribulations) can emotionally abused. They received provide encouraging words. This is counselling and the opportunity to often when we discover who our true learn a skill. The latter provided friends are. They encourage us to them with an avenue for improving muster up courage, faith, and hope. their self-image and, in many cases, allowing them to generate an income. They urge us to use these “defining This fire presented the management, moments” to view aspects of our lives differently and to chart new courses, staff, and attendees with a great crisis. However, the tragic loss of the walk new paths, and listen to building provided an opportunity for a different drummers as we seek to reinvent a better self; extracting much bigger and better-designed golden opportunities from every crisis. structure to emerge in its place.

For those of us who believe in God, Similar stories can be shared in a crisis often presents opportunities relation to the devastation that for us to draw closer to Him; to realize Hurricane Ivan caused for our neighbouring island Grenada in 2004. that there is wisdom in relying on a power greater than ourselves. We can Many homes were destroyed as this trust Him to work things out on our Category 3 hurricane ravaged the behalf. We can trust Him to show us 133-square-mile island. However, the beautiful opportunities that often Grenada rebuilt. The replacement homes and infrastructure were much lie in an ugly crisis. more hurricane resistant than the Send comments, criticisms & ones damaged by the tropical storm. suggestions to Based on the foregoing examples, julesferdinand@gmail.com we will not lose hope as we still reel

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12. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

GonsalvesÊ insane financial strategy ON THURSDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2017, the SVG Minister of Finance, Gonsalves, told the SVG House of Assembly he was seeking debt forgiveness for the country.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, it is estimated that Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan receive about EC$3 billion annually in tax and customs duty exemptions from the ULP government.

It is insane, therefore, for Gonsalves to be seeking debt forgiveness for SVG, when he could easily get the money needed to repay the country’s debt, by ending the tax and customs duties exemptions given to Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan.

The pursuit of debt forgiveness shows the stupidity of the ULP regime and their incompetence when it comes to managing the country’s finances and the country’s economy.

One of the big problems with the

ULP government is that they have eight elected members and four senators in the SVG House of Assembly, and not one of them is a university graduate in accounting or finance. It is a case of the blind leading the blind with this ULP government.

The consequence of having a government with no ministers or senators being a university graduate in accounting or finance, is that our country now suffers from financial and economic devastation. It has made our economy weak and our country heavily in debt.

The SVG economy is in crisis.

Having a high debt to GDP ratio of about 81%, shows that SVG is not making enough money to pay off its debt. SVG is at risk of defaulting on its debt and an economic collapse.

Whilst Gonsalves continues to give

government and macro-economic and structural change. It cannot be business as usual.

Gonsalves’ financial and economic strategy of debt forgiveness is insane. tax exemptions of about EC$3 billion annually to Taiwan and the super-rich The ULP regime does not have the of Mustique and Canouan, it is insane vision to build a strong and sustainable economy. to seek debt forgiveness.

The best debt management strategy It would be strange for foreign for SVG is to collect revenue. countries and organisations to grant debt forgiveness to SVG, in the face of Therefore, Gonsalves needs to end the tax exemptions given to Taiwan and tax exemptions of about EC$3 billion the super-rich, of Mustique and annually given to Taiwan and the Canouan, and collect the revenue of super-rich of Mustique and Canouan. billions of dollars a year that our It is strange for foreign countries people are being denied. and organisations to give money or It is insane not to collect this grant loans to SVG, whilst the tax revenue, and it would be an insult to exemptions of about EC$3 billion annually to Taiwan and the super-rich the people of SVG not to collect this revenue. of Mustique and Canouan are still in place.

SVG Green Party According to Warrant Officer Ivan www.svggreenparty.org O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, the very high debt to GDP ratio in SVG is https://twitter.com/svggreenparty https://www.facebook.com/SVGa very strong warning to our people, Green-Party-154937087877631/ that SVG urgently needs a new

The ULP has no response to crime in SVG IN THE SEARCHLIGHT NEWSPAPER of August 27, 2010, Ralph Gonsalves made the analysis that, “Most crimes, by far, are committed by young men between the ages of 17 and 35 years, who have had little formal schooling, who possess few marketable skills, who have come from dysfunctional families (often without a male father figure), who are poor, who do not attend church, who are invariably part of a loose subculture of crime, and whose life histories suggest social alienation and psychological scars which predispose them to crime.”

Having made this analysis as Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Minister of Finance and Minister of National Security, one would naturally expect the relevant strategies of intervention to be implemented. Instead, after 7 years of making the analysis, and 16 years of a commitment to be “tough on crime and the causes of crime,” SVG has recorded 33 murders by October 6, and is competing for the dubious distinction of having one of the highest murder rate in the world.

How is this possible? This is so because this ULP regime is about the

rhetoric, the sound bytes, and about the appearance of intellect. For them, all you have to do is sound bright. The problem here is that “they too bright.”

As these bright boys and girls of the ULP posture and beat their chests who nearly get Rhode Scholarship, who don’t have certificate, etc. etc.

Vincentians are in despair as our sons and daughters are murdered wantonly, and to date, not a word from our Minister of National Security and/or the Commissioner of Police.

It is hard to explain the levels of brutality being inflicted by and on our young men and women. However,

many agree that our young people are angry and frustrated, and this feeds on such issues of poverty, hopelessness and joblessness in our society.

Undoubtedly, many of the above are occasioned by the policies of this ULP regime who demands that you must own the party for your children to eat and to get a job. Outside your overt display of support, your situation is hopeless, and you and your children “must suffer.”

This ULP regime has constructed this present reality by their discriminatory policies, and fostered the environment that facilitates and embolden criminals — remember: the murder of Glen Jackson and Edgar Cruikshank;, the rape rally and the reinstatement of police officers who were convicted of crimes; the slap on the wrist for Tamara Marks and Biddy; refusal to account for monies supposedly spent on public projects, and the parceling out of jobs for their children and cohorts, to name a few.

To address this onslaught of crime and violence on our country, the ULP must of necessity be removed from office. Ralph and his gang have failed this country and they don’t care.

Consider the efforts being made to prevent the inspection of the 2015 ballot boxes, the monies spent on lawyers to delay the election petition cases.

Vincentians, time to rise from your slumber. This is not about a few persons in the Opposition. We must hold our government to account - any government. Today it is time for all patriotic Vincentians to come together regardless of party.

For the sake of our country and our children.

Make the change for SVG’s sake.

Tyrone James Commander SVG Coast Guard (Retired)

V Sixteen students expelled

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 13.

Education

SIXTEEN STUDENTS were expelled from the secondary school system from 2005 up until 2016.

And according to Minister of Education, St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, all of the students expelled were 18 years or older.

He told the members of Parliament during a sitting last week Thursday, that the majority of the 16 students were expelled for behavioural reasons, “after interventions failed to rehabilitate them.”

But while they were expelled from the secondary school system, Prince said that some of these students were placed at technical institutes, as an alternative arrangement towards ensuring that they learned a skill and continued their education.

“Others were advised to enroll in adult and continuing education

programmes offered by the Ministry of Education,” he said.

In reference to the policy regarding expulsion, the minister assured the parliament that students under the age of 18 are not expelled from the secondary school system.

“The ministry only resorts to expulsion after giving the students every opportunity to redeem themselves, including a change in environment.”

He continued, “The prerogative of the Ministry is to ensure that students stay in school; but a few students upon turning 18 may be removed from the school system if and when they become a threat to the remaining school population, or if they fail to meet minimum academic standards,” He did admit, however, that a number of students of school age exit

Right: Clair Jimmy Prince, Minister of Education, assured the parliament that, even on expulsion from secondary school, students are offered alternatives within the general education system.

the system on their own accord, even those who have been offered a change of environment to continue their secondary school education.

(DD)

14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 15.

News

Whirlwind of donations for MCMH Right: Andrew Miller of ANDREW MILLER, Proprietor/Managing Andrews Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Director of Andrews Company (2nd from Refrigeration and Air left) hands over air Conditioning conditioning units. Others Company, considers pictured (from left) Hospital that he owes a debt Administrator Grace of gratitude to the nurses and doctors at Walters, Foreign Affairs Rep. Bernadette Ambrosethe Milton Cato Black and Minister of Health Memorial Hospital Luke Browne.

(MCMH).

He was a patient of that institution and felt it only right that he recognise the care and attention he received there, in a tangible manner. He found a way to express that gratitude.

With plans to set up an Oncology Unit at the MCMH, Andrews has donated air condition units to be used in that Unit.

The presentation took place last Monday at the Foreign Affairs Conference Room, where Minister of Health Luke Browne and Hospital Administrator Grace Walters were on hand to receive the gifts.

Joining Andrews in the show of support for the MCMH, and the Oncology Unit in particular, Candy and Ian Veira of Singer, donated two refrigerators, one to be used to store vaccines for new born babies,

The latest (second) team of VINLEC technical staff member at the AIA, on the day of their departure for the BVI.

Additional technical support to the BVI St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) has provided additional technical support to the British Virgin Islands to assist with the restoration of electricity in the territory. The country’s system was severely affected by the passage of Hurricane Irma and requires extensive work in order to be fully functional.

The team of five, which left the island on Tuesday morning, is being led by Mr. Les Malcolm - Station Supervisor at the Bequia Power Station.

The other team members are from the Transmission and Distribution Department and include Mr. Esron Thompson - Lineman 3, Mr. Eromond Thomas - Lineman 3, Mr. Arron Charles - Lineman 3 and Mr. Gregory Ferary - Lineman 2.

This is the second team from VINLEC in the BVI. The first team, which is still in the territory, left two weeks ago. The Company also has a team of five in Anguilla, working with ANGLEC to restore electricity on that island.

In addition to technical support, VINLEC has provided relief supplies to Caribbean islands ravaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The supplies donated to these countries were valued at sixteen thousand East Caribbean dollars. The Company is honoured to be able to provide assistance to our neighbours who are in need.

(Submitted by VINLEC)

and the other to store medication for the Oncology Unit.

Telecommunications service provider FLOW also weighed in with its support for the service rendered by this country’s main hospital.

In addition to an internet connection, FLOW added a 50-inch television, extended a commitment to refurbish the waiting area at Accident and Emergency Unit, and threw in a donation of $5,000.00.

National Properties, in whose name most

Wayne Hull Country Manager/FLOW (2nd from right) hands over cheque. government properties and holdings are vested, also joined the list of donors with an amplifier.

And Peter Van Whervin from Guardsman gave an assurance of greater security at the MCMH, with a promise to provide an electronic door for the Accident and Emergency Unit.

In the words of Minister Browne, “Good things are happening in health.”

Liberators roll out more donations IN FULFILLING their commitment to assist needy causes and institutions that serve the elderly in particular, Vincy Liberators SVG made two recent donations.

On October 4, 2017, Vincy Liberators SVG, in association with Vincy Liberators New York, donated a quantity of supplies

and equipment to the Lewis Punnett Home.

The items included adult pampers, a commode, a bath bench and a walker.

In present-ing the items, Secretary of the Organ-isation, Miss Desiree Primus highlighted the importance of supporting the Lewis Punnett Home, where a number of our citizens, many elderly, others abandoned, reside.

She committed her organization to continuing to assist the Home, resources Handing over party at the Lewis Punnett Home. permitting.

Comfort Care Home was also a recipient of the Liberators’ goodwill.

Sister Davis thanked the members present at the handing over ceremony for the donation, and stated that the staff of the institution would ensure that the items are utilized for the benefit of the residents.

Later that day, the Liberators travelled to Gibson Corner to the Comfort Care Home, where they donated a quantity of personal sanitary items.

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16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

SVG-Taiwan:

Celebrating friendship growth, advances in health care and education, low unemployment rate, and housing reform for most of the disadvantaged people.

H.E Ger further explained that in the H.E. Baushaun Ger, Taiwan’s first year (2016 — 2017) since President Ambassador to St. Vincent Tsai Ing-Wen took and the Grenadines, office, she has addressing his country’s implemented a number National Day celebrations of reforms, including here, reiterated thanks to pension and social housing SVG for its support on the reform. international stage.

Today, Taiwan ranks 11th on the index for economic THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON freedom, and the World TAIWAN has progressed tremendously over the years, and Competitiveness Yearbook ranked Taiwan 14th in the has now become a power and force to be reckoned with, not just world, 3rd in Asia. And it ranks at the top for press freedom in only in Asia, but the world.

Taiwan’s Ambassador to St. all of Asia.

“But that progress today has Vincent and the Grenadines, not come easy with all the H.E. Baushaun Ger, highlighted challenges,” H.E Ger said. some of his country’s He continued, saying that developments — its economic

Left: Sir James Mitchell, former Prime Minister, also addressed last Monday’s ceremony.

Freedom House, the nongovernmental organization that conducts research and advocacy on democracy, political freedom and human rights, described Taiwan as a free country.

It also maintains peace and, according to the ambassador, his country remained committed in this regard.

During his presentation at a ceremony held on Monday at the Methodist Church Hall to celebrate Taiwan’s National Day (actually October 10), H.E Ger also referred to the relationship between St Vincent and the Grenadines and Taiwan.

“Both countries have always worked close together,” he said.

The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was commended for its continued effort to fight for the right for Taiwan to participate in the United Nations. The cause was raised recently at the UN General Assembly when Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir

Louis Straker spoke on Taiwan’s behalf.

It was also disclosed that the Taiwan government had increased its contribution to some projects in St Vincent, including its contribution to the YES and School Bursary programmes.

Continued on Page 17.

Minister of Health Luke Browne (front left) delivered congratulatory remarls on behalf of the Government of SVG.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 17.

News

Pope grateful for his Taiwan experience Dr. Raffique Pope was most impressed with the work ethic of the Taiwanese people.

RAFFIQUE POPE REMINISCED on his experience in the Republic of China (Taiwan) where he was among the first set of Vincentians to study medicine.

Pope, then a registered nurse, and Andre Williams, who was then a graduate teacher, left St Vincent and the Grenadines to pursue studies at I-Shou

University, in 2013.

“If I can describe my time in Taiwan, awesome, it was awesome,” he said.

He said that his experience was such that he now refers to Taiwan as his second home.

But initially it felt a bit strange, he admitted, explaining that was so, primarily “because I was in a country that speaks a different language, with a different culture.”

Among his first impressions, he recalled, was how hot it was. This would change quickly, however, after he said he experienced his first winter.

He credited the people for their warmth and hospitality and for their help in making his transition to life in Taiwan.

“Taiwan is an amazing place — the people, the

SVG-Taiwan:

Celebrating friendship their resources with others,” Browne said, “And so, we celebrate adding, “They continue to the 106th birthday; we assist the nation’s assure you that we will children and assist in this continue to strengthen country’s development.” this relationship,” H.E All of the assistance Ger said. that Taiwan has granted Minister of Health, to this country indicate an Luke Browne, on behalf of extraordinary level of the government, saluted generosity, Browne noted.

Taiwan for all of its “So, we are here accomplishments. celebrating a country that With all its has done well, but has achievements, the extended a hand, and has Taiwanese people did not given us immeasurable keep their development to assistance. We are here to themselves, Browne underscore and renew our commented. commitment to the people “They have shared of Taiwan,” he said. (DD) Continued from Page 16.

Raising a toast, across political boundaries, to mark the 106th anniversary of Taiwan’s National Day.

food, the culture, the health care system, the infrastructure, the transportation system,” he said.

There was so much more that Pope said that he could have spoken

about, but the one thing he said he admired about the people of Taiwan was their work ethic.

“As Vincentians, I think we need to adopt this sort of spirit and drive,” he said.

Ambassador Baushaun Ger explained that Vincentian students who had opted to go to Taiwan to study medicine were beginning to return to St Vincent, to assist in this country’s health sector.

There are currently five Vincentians still studying medicine in Taiwan, and to date, some 143 Vincentians have gone to Taiwan to pursue tertiary level studies in a variety of fields. (DD)

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18. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

Avoid disappointments: Ship Christmas barrels now of personal shipments to a local warehouse, trucking to the closest sea port, loading on an IT’S THAT TIME of year ocean-going freighter to again when families and off-loading in Kingstown. friends overseas are In addition, due to an shopping for holiday gifts increase in drug to be carefully packed in trafficking and terrorist barrels and boxes and activities, shipping shipped to St. Vincent, companies are timed to arrive before experiencing heightened Christmas. security at all ports, and Shipping agencies take there is an increasing care of the many details necessity for additional and logistics of arranging export and import everything from delivery paperwork such as

by BEN HARRISON International Correspondent

customs declarations, duty and tax collections, all involved in the clearing of shipments through a local broker.

For over 30 years, Canada’s KLC Shipping has been providing weekly freight service for shipments from Toronto, Ottawa and Montréal to St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Barbados.

Today, KLC offers specialized weekly service to St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Trinidad, and

Barbados, as well as Full Container Load shipments to the rest of the Caribbean and Latin America, in addition to consolidating commercial freight shipments anywhere in the world.

Through the years, KLC has been a familiar face in the St. Vincent and St. Lucia communities, frequently reaching beyond the call of duty to assist other communities in need.

During an interview with THE VINCENTIAN, KLC president Ken Chitolie shared that KLC had not only made a significant financial contribution to the Dominica relief committee, but had worked with them in a consulting capacity, arranging shipping services to that hurricane ravaged island.

According to Ken Chitole and customs broker Wayne Chrichton, President of Arabesque Inc. in Kingstown, the volume of barrel shipping this year is predicted to increase substantially.

Considering the thousands of barrels that are shipped, most barrels arrive on time, in perfect condition; however, each year, a number of families face frustration and disappointment over not receiving their barrels until into the New Year.

On behalf of KLC and his fellow shippers throughout the Diaspora, Ken offers the following advice to everyone planning to ship barrels and packages to family and friends in time for Christmas: Ship early: (the very last shipment, barring any interference

by Mother Nature, such as late season hurricanes or other storms at sea, will leave Toronto on or before December 1st, arriving in St. Vincent for clearance and delivery on December 17th); Document all goods being shipped and do not risk sending any prohibited or falsely described goods; Pack all items carefully, especially anything that may be fragile; If you do not use a barrel, be sure

Ken Chitole, President of KLC Shipping in Canada other containers are solid and secure. It is not unusual for a poorly wrapped cardboard box to break open, scattering items on the warehouse floor; Please pass this information along to your families overseas.

KLC freight attempts to avoid increasing shipping rates and have tied any rate increases to the fluctuation in the value of the Canadian dollar. For people sending shipments from Canada, please call the KLC office in Toronto for up to date shipping rates.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 19.

20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 21.

News

Michael Charles (second from left) and Colin John, left, interacting with some of the youngsters last Saturday at the Calliaqua Playing Field.

Bring your

balls and comeÊ, kicks off AN INITIATIVE DUBBED: “Bring your balls and come”, kicked off last Saturday at the Calliaqua Playing Field, despite the inclement weather.

The concept behind the programme is to use sports, in this case Football, as a tool against crime.

Hatched a few weeks ago by lawyer Grant Connell, the challenge was thrown out to get the playing fields across St Vincent and the Grenadines alive, especially on Saturdays.

Taking good to the idea was parliamentary representative for East St George- Camillo Gonsalves, who doubled the ten balls sourced by Connell to get the programme started.

Last Saturday’s coaching session was conducted by past national player Maxwell Bennett, a resident of Calliaqua, and was attended by twenty youths from the area.

Also in attendance was Gonsalves, along with former Commissioner of Police Michael Charles and current Deputy Commissioner of Police Colin John.

Charles and John engaged the youths in a football match, and otherwise used the opportunity to connect with them.

Connell thanked all those who contributed to the kick off of the programme.

He named Facey Trading, who donated the Milo balls, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves, Maxwell Bennett, Michael Charles, Colin John, Jankie Glass, Roger Adams, Third Element Sound and Be Fit Movement.

“We want to see this type of training of the youths continue along with Bennett being the resource person for the Calliaqua area”, Connell stated.

“This week, it moves into Sharpes Playing Field from 9am, where the representative for Central Kingstown St Clair Leacock has already been contacted and would meet the challenge of double the ball donation; Major Leacock would be responsible for finding someone to coach the children every Saturday”, Connell added.

Connell said, once all goes as planned the next direction would be Fancy , South Rivers, Cumberland, in that order.

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22. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Finance

Financial Information Month- October 2017

Financial Tips Tip # 1 Set your retirement goals

IN SETTING YOUR RETIREMENT goals, one should consider: your current age; your planned age of retirement; your current and projected

income; your current and projected expenses; the amount you can afford to add to your retirement nest egg now and for the rest of your income earning years; an assumed rate of return; projected inflation; the various

sources from which you might receive retirement income and whether those amounts would be fixed or varying; your planned retirement lifestyle, including where you plan to live during retirement; your health history and

that of your family, so as to determine your need for health insurance and the different types of health-related coverage that you may need.

Tip # 2- Maximize Your Retirement Savings “There are three secrets to maximizing retirement savings. The first is to put savings on autopilot– automatic monthly withdrawals from a savings account, The second secret is to – forget that you have this money! The third secret is paying down a mortgage.”

marathon and not a sprint. Develop an investment strategy and stick with it no matter what the conditions in the market.”

Tip # 5 – Manage Your Debt To Stay Out Of Debt.

“Without a strategic debt management plan, you will likely continue to accrue debt which puts you further behind and makes it harder to escape. Debt Tip # 3 – Don’t Forget management includes Your Estate Plan. strategically paying down the most expensive “Comprehensive debt first, like credit card financial planning debt, then personal includes estate planning loans, then student and emergency planning loans, and then housing for families. A lot of debt. However, debt attention is given to management is also just savings for emergencies. as much about avoiding The typical future debt and looking recommendation is for for areas to cut back six months of compensation saved in a spending or at least, liquid account. But what spend smarter. If you find yourself buying about premature death breakfast every day or planning? Will there be eating out at lunch, assets to take care of think about packing final expenses and lunches or having liquidity to provide for breakfast at home, which family needs? The time frame of these needs will could save you money in the long term.” indicate the amount of funds necessary and the Tip # 6 – Talk With amount of those funds Loved Ones About that need to be liquid.

Money.

There are personal savings, employee benefits, and life “Often, couples hide insurance proceeds that financial secrets from may be available to their partners, which can provide for the needs of negatively impact a the family. But are these relationship. Take some funds structured time to talk to a properly? Often they are significant other about not. The client’s will, your financial goals and personal asset titling, what you want for the and beneficiary future. Take some time designations all need to to build a shared vision be reviewed to ensure of what your future looks that family needs will be like. For parents, take matched by both the time to teach your amount of funds children about money. available and how the Children learn about funds are made money whether we available.” deliberately teach them Tip # 4 – Invest For The or not, so be conscious about what money Long Term. messages your children are getting. Even a “Success in simple conversation can investments is a go a long way.”

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 23.

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24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

He doesn’t deserve you confirmed to him that I had the cramps, but he MY BOYFRIEND AND I went just laughed and walked swimming and there was an off. It was this stranger who took me home in his incident where I developed car as my boyfriend had severe cramps in my legs. He was a little behind long gone.

After I got home, my me and saw I was in trouble. He caught up to me boyfriend showed up accusing me of having an and I told him I had the affair with the guy who cramps; he laughed and kept on swimming. Luckily had stayed around with for me there was this other me. I could not believe the man nearby and he came to callousness of my boyfriend. Even my new my rescue.

He got me to the shore, hero had to tell him that he did not deserve and there was my boyfriend telling him I was me. Those words are still lingering in my mind. just seeking his I am now asking myself attention. The man whether I should take the

Get out!!!

Dear George,

Dear George,

words of a total stranger and move on with my life.

Saved by a stroke Dear Saved by a stroke, The truth can come from a total stranger, and in your case, it could just be that.

Your boyfriend literally deserted you when you

needed him most — when your life depended on it. You do not need further confirmation that this man does not deserve you. You may have been dead, had it not been for the Good Samaritan.

Make this new lease on your life count for something!

George

He beats up on me Dear George, PLEASE TELL ME HOW I can get my husband to stop beating me.

He is this nice, jovial kind of guy in the public eye, but at home he is the devil in print. He goes to church and pretends he is such a spiritual man, knowing he had his hands

on me moments before going to church.

I have begged him to stop hitting me, and I have gone to more than one counselors to no avail. I even attempted to go to the pastor of the church we attend, but he convinced me not to go, saying that such a move would reflect badly on us

both. He does not believe in going for counseling because he does not want to be embarrassed and, added to that, he believes there is nothing a counselor could tell him that he does not know.

I cannot live like this anymore and I need your help.

Battered and beaten Dear Battered, The perpetrators of domestic violence get their strength and energy when their abusive behavior is kept secret. Your husband needs help, and whether or not he agrees to it, it would be a good thing to go see your pastor, especially since he is so actively involved in the church.

If your husband refuses to address his abusive behavior by firstly going for professional help, then you need to take it a step further and put some physical distance between you two, until he makes a move to get help.

Your safety should be your first concern. If after all your efforts to get your husband to change his abusive behavior he still stands his ground, then you may need to make some serious decisions about your marriage to him.

George

I RENT THE upstairs of a house and my landlord lives below. He made me sign a lease where I cannot do this and cannot do that, with which I have no problem.

I do have a problem, though. I cannot sleep at nights. My landlord plays loud music late at night and even into the wee hours of the morning. He entertains friends almost every weekend and sometimes during the week, and the loud music and noise would continue.

I have spoken to him time and time again, but all he says to me is I can move if I do not like it. He is extremely arrogant and does not listen to reason. What can I do about this situation?

Out of patience, Dear out of patience, Unfortunately, you do not have a document or agreement that compels your landlord to maintain a peaceful environment. You can seek legal advice, but I will advise that it may be less stressful if you find another place, and leave this landlord to himself and his rowdy friends.

It is not worth it to engage in a fight that you, more than likely, will not win. Start planning to get out!

George

Is this a gangster’s paradise? establishing a broad-based social partnership to deal f) Two policemen with crime. should be designated to i) The foolishness each neighbourhood preached by the so-called watch. The formation of human rights bunch must more neighbourhood be exposed for what it is. watches must be actively They are wrong in encouraged. believing that rights take g) There must be more precedence over justice, socio-economic measures and that society must be to deal with the causes of endlessly merciful to evil. crime. For example, the The hallmark of an wages of the least paid must be increased and the organised society is primarily its ability to general redistribution of safeguard its citizens. wealth needs to be seriously addressed. (Both How to handle crime seems to so baffle the political parties and the ULP, that one is forced to parasitic private sector will hate me forever). And speculate as to whether the government is the state must create bankrupt of ideas and has more employment as been backed into a corner priority numero uno! by the criminals”. h) Government must actively engage civil This is a slightly updated society (the opposition, version of an original church, trade unions, published a decade ago.

NGOs, etc.) thereby Continued from Page 8.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Get out and enjoy some entertainment. Social events held in your home will be successful and entertaining for all.

Face any emotional problems head‐on to avoid situations getting out of hand. Uncertainties regarding relatives will make situations uncom‐ fortable if you attend a family function.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Don't expect any‐ one else to pay your bills for you. Don't agree to make any of those cosmetic alterations you've been considering. Your pursuits may end up being fruit less. Be careful not to take on other people's problems. You may find yourself in a financial bind.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Try to be honest when dealing with your mate. Opportunities will come through behind the scenes activities.

Changes in your domestic scene are apparent.

Use your added discipline to get what you want.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) This is a great day to beautify your living quarters or to entertain at home. Curb any jealous fits if your partner has been flirting with someone else. Any attractions toward clients will be one sided and must be put right out of your head. The home environment will be unpre‐ dictable this week.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Be sure to keep communication open with those you live with.

Get involved in the activities of children. They will teach you far more than you expect. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately. Don't jump the gun; you may find yourself getting angry at the wrong person.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Your emotional reaction will be dependent upon your partner's responsiveness. Involvement in fitness clubs will be conducive to engaging roman tic connec‐ tions. If boredom has set in, find new and unique directions that offer interesting friend‐ ships. They will not have the patience to wait for you to complete things that they've asked you to do.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) You should visit a friend or relative who hasn't been well.

Alienation may be the result of a misunder‐ standing. A little volleyball or other outdoor sports should be on your agenda. Social events will be favorable.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Misunderstandings at work could easily lead to your demise. Electrical problems may be an issue. Travel for business purposes may bring the highest returns. Don't let your personal partner hold you back or slow you down.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Tempers may flare if you haven't been completely honest about your intentions or your whereabouts. Small business ventures can earn you extra cash. Romantic opportunities are evident if you get involved in large groups or organizations. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Your social activity should be conducive to finding love.

You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities this week. Don't pre‐ judge. You may get drawn into a personal sit‐ uation that will not be to your liking.

Someone may be trying to pull the wool over your eyes.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You will have orig‐ inal ideas for ways to make extra money. You should put in some extra hours developing that creative idea you have. The personal problems you may be having are interfering with your pro‐ ductivity. You need to keep busy doing things that you both enjoy.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You'll look guilty if you don't lay your cards on the table.

Emotional disputes will only end in sorrow.

You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you move.

Be sure you get accurate information.

ACROSS 1. Midday 5. Sturdy twilled fabric 9. Long‐sleeved linen vestment 12. River in central Switzerland 13. Land measure 14. 21st letter of the Greek alphabet 15. Make beer or ale 16. Preparatory school 17. Average 18. Son of Isaac and Rebekah 20. City in central Belgium 22. U.S inventor 25. Immigration of Jews to Israel 26. Having the flavor of mint 27. Grating 28. Monetary unit Japan 29. Resinous deposit 30. Large flightless bird 33. Bit 35. Bundles 37. Reverberated 40. Equipment for fishing 41. Goatlike antelope 42. Sovereign 43. Relatives 44. Fresh‐water fish 46. Title of respect for God 50. Unit of energy 51. Yellow cheese coated with red wax 52. Hearing organs 53. Fish eggs 54. Cloak 55. Indian nursemaid

DOWN 1. Arrest 2. Lever for rowing 3. Metal‐bearing mineral 4. Freshest 5. Nippon 6. Beige 7. Part of verb to be 8. Language of Nepal 9. To put to use 10. Capital of Tibet 11. Lineage 19. Asian condiment 21. Help 22. Printer’s measures 23. Decease 24. Tavern 25. Curve 27. Chatter 29. Cover 30. North American

deer 31. Honey 32. Exploit 33. Domesticated canid 34. Person who reads 35. Bleat of a sheep 36. Ancient district in S Greece

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 25.

37. Gravel ridge 38. Capital of Egypt 39. Pivot 40. Topic 42. Strike breaker 45. Fuss 47. Body of water 48. Brassiere 49. Powdery residue

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26. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Special Needs Children on court at Grand View AFTER JUST over a year of being sidelined, because of the absence of a court to lead their Tennis activities, a group of special children again got engaged last Tuesday, at the Grand View Hotel court at Villa.

A gleeful and enthusiastic group of students was taken through the paces by coach Trevor Sam of the Grassroot Tennis Club.

Excited that the children are back on court, Grant Connell, head of the Grassroot Tennis Club, stated: “They are Special Children, and it’s great that we can provide a vent for them to get exercise on court and to socialize in a different environment… It’s unfortunate that they were not offered a place at another club in the interim while we lost our home at Murray’s Road, but that’s life”.

Connell noted that as well, the Grassroot Tennis Club is in the process of seeking a sponsor to help set-off the transportation costs, since the previous sponsor seemingly could not continue the rate of support in light of the present economic climate.

“I thank the previous sponsors

Digicel, who have supported us since the days when Martin Bollers was Manager, and the Juno De Roche Marketing team “.

Connell confirmed, though, that the club has a duty to ensure that these special children stay on court.

“The joy it brings is priceless….

By next week, I’m informed that in total, twenty- five students would

join in on court… Head Coach Trevor Sam would continue to do the excellent work he has been doing for years with the children, although he was overlooked for selection to travel with the team at the last Special Olympics, as his genuine love for the children and their enjoyment on court continues to surface”, Connell concluded.

Special Needs children raising their racquets high last week Tuesday at the Grand View Hotel Tennis Court: Head Coach- Trevor Sam is at left and Grant Connell is at right.

Goddard re-elected President of SVG RU THE LOCAL Rugby fraternity showed their confidence and trust in Sophie Goddard, and she was re-elected, unopposed, as President of the SVG Rugby Union.

The overwhelming show of support for Goddard came at the Union’s Annual General Meeting, held on Friday 6th October 2017, at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex conference room.

Sophie Goddard will head the Goddard, newly elected Executive for president of the period 2017-1019.

SVG Rugby Other executive members Union. elected at the AGM were: Kelly Glass - Vice President; Kenmore ‘Kit’ Horne -Treasurer; Maxine Burgess - Public Relations Officer; Leonard Matthews - Team Manager; Brian Alexander - Male Captain; Andrew Phillips - Sponsorship Director; Kemi Francois - League Coordinator.

The position of Secretary will be filled in due course.

The new executive was tasked with devising programmes and initiatives aimed at: re-establishing female rugby; recruiting more persons to the sport; continuing to work towards improving the standard of play among national teams; finding more volunteers; seeking sponsorship for both the League and Get into Rugby programme.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 27.

Sion Hill Netball celebrates with longstanding administrator THE ANNUAL SION HILL Netball Competition opened last Sunday afternoon at the Sion Hill Playing Field hard court, with an official ceremony and the honouring of a long-standing administrator of the sport in the community, Mrs Sylvia Knights- Clarke.

Mrs Sylvia Knights- Clarke heads the Sion Hill Netball Committee organisers of the Vita Malt sponsored competition.

In recognition of her service, KnightsClarke was presented with a plaque, with the inscription: “For Outstanding Contribution to the Netball Fraternity in Sion Hill for the past 25 years… You are Greatly Appreciated”.

Clarke was part of the set-up headed

by Clive Providence then, which laid the

Best Dressed Team- Star Girls One.

groundwork for the Sion Hill Netball Committee.

However, there were other persons and groups who, prior to Sion Hill Netball Committee, had organised Netball competitions at the Sion Hill Playing Field hard court.

Parliamentary representative for East Kingstown, Arnhim Eustace, who was one of the speakers giving brief remarks at last Sunday’s opening, lauded the current organisers for their stick-ability, which, he said, accounted for the longevity of the competition.

Eustace again pledged his support in the area of discipline, with a promise of donating $300 to the Most Disciplined Team, and the same amount to the Most Disciplined Player.

On the matter, Eustace stated in his address, “It is extremely important for the future of your well- being; don’t take it for granted”.

Joining Eustace in providing incentives to the players was Glenford Prescott, who promised $100 to the Most Disciplined Player on the Sion Hill team.

Sylvia Knights-Clarke, honoree at last Sunday’s opening of the 2017 Vita Malt Sion Hill Netball Competition.

Left: Officials inspecting Island Blends Success Radio Netters, which was adjudged as the team with the Best Banner.

But there was an on the spot recognition, as sevenyear-old Phoebe Ferdinand of Island Blends Success Radio Netters was acknowledged as the Youngest Player in Youngest the competition. player in the She would receive competitiona prize, compliments Phoebe the Sion Hill Sports Ferdinand.

Club.

The other adjudications saw Star Girls One taking the Best Dressed Team award for the second year in a row, with Island Blends Success Radio Netters being adjudged the team with the Best Banner.

Ten of the sixteen teams registered for the competition showed up at last Sunday’s opening.

The sixteen teams, five more than in 2016, are lodged in two divisions this year.

In Division One are Yanja Young Strugglers, double champions of last year’s competition, along with Sion Hill, Teachers Credit Union Trailblazers, Ball Grabberz, North Leeward Combine, Star Girls One and Nice Radio Clinchers.

Making up the Division Two entrants are Everready Buccament Bay Androids, Everready Future Stars, OSCO Ball Warriors, Star Girls Two, Star Girls Three, SVG General Services Strikers and Third World Man Shop Pacers.

KFC Pacers won both the League and Knock Out competitions in Division Two, last year.

Cumberland: Big opening, small scores THOUSANDS OF PERSONS descended on the North Leeward coastal area for the opening of the Cumberland Playing Field last Sunday.

It was a festive occasion, many naturally absorbed in that atmosphere rather than action on field.

But there was cricket, and in the second and top billed of the exhibition matches marking the opening, the North Leeward All Stars XI had a five-wicket win over the Prime Minister’s team.

Led by Darren Sammy, the Prime Minister’s XI reached 87 for 5 in 15 overs, with Sammy himself topscoring with 22 from 15 balls including 3 sixes, with one of those landing in the Cumberland River outside the ground, beyond the path leading to the beach.

That feat called for a replacement ball which Sammy took stock of and

The ‘new’ Cumberland Playing Field ball as consolation.

The drainage at the ground was earlier exposed. The first The North Leeward All Stars were led by Senator game was curtailed Carlos James (right front) and included current because of rain, with West Indies speedster Keswick Williams (left Premier Division front), West Indies batsman Andre Fletcher (2nd from left front) and former W.I speedster Ian Allen Champions Radcliffe earning the trophy by (2nd from right front). virtue of a higher run rate, over Providence cleared the ropes twice North Leeward outfit to 89 Electronics North Leeward more, one on to the roof of for 5 in 14.2 overs. team, this year’s First the pavilion. He was Delorn Johnson, Division champions. caught off Carlos James’ playing for the Prime Radcliffe were bowling.

Minister’s XI, was another dismissed for 74 off 12.4 Asif Hooper bagged 2 batsman to clear the overs. Javon Samuel 3 for for 10 and Kenneth boundary ropes, his shot 9, Benniton Stapleton 3 Dember grabbed 2 for 12, finding the forehead of a for 21, and Winston bowling for the North youngster, coincidentally Samuel 2 for 6, carved into Leeward All Stars. dressed in the West Indies the Radcliffe batting, with Denis Byam then colours. That youngster Romano Pierre, 17, the top slammed 33 to lead the received an autographed scorer.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves didn’t take to the field to lead his team; instead he left that up to Darren Sammy (3rd from left back) all in a losing cause.

North Leeward struggled. Elron Lewis fell third ball LBW to Othniel Lewis, and the score read 5 for 3 in the fifth over.

Rain put an end to the action, with North Leeward 19 for 3 after 8.3 overs.

The official opening

ceremony followed the matches and heard addresses from Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Government Senator Carlos James, and former MP for North Leeward Dr. Jerrol Thompson.

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28. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

UmpiresÊ Head calls for unity Speaking at the conclusion of the association’s elections last week Thursday at the Bishop’s College Kingstown, Davis cited factions in the membership.

Calling for healing after the fall- outs from the elections, Davis implored those present: “The most important thing for us, is moving forward together … I am asking that all of us for the forward movement of the organisation, that we Retained President of work as one and stop the the SVG Umpires pulling and tugging… As Association- Roger far as I know, that we Davis. join the organisation is for one goal, that we RE-ELECTED PRESIDENT of work hand in hand in the St Vincent and the one direction”.

Grenadines Cricket Davis, who was first Umpires Associationelected to the helm of the Roger Davis, wants to see organisation in 2015, unification among the defeated former members of the President — Goaland organisation.

Greaves, 11-7, in a duel for the top post.

The association, when it first hosted the Annual General Meeting on Saturday 30th September, had begun the election process, however an 8-8 tie between Davis and Greaves, forced a rerun.

Continuing his plea for co-operation, Davis recalled: “We had an executive in place, and a lot of criticism always pointed to the president.

All of us are responsible and all of us have to pull our weight … We need to pull each other by the boot strap.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

But while Davis needed the use of the ballots for his re-election; Vice- President- Dillon Child was elected unopposed.

Also getting the unwavering vote of confidence from the members, were Maria Abbott, Michael St Hillaire and Selwyn Allen.

Abbott retained the position of Secretary,

while St Hillaire was installed as the Treasurer. Previously, Abbott held the joint portfolio of Secretary/Treasurer, but the membership voted in favour of separating the functions, while the committee members were cut from two to one.

Allen was returned unopposed as Public Relations Officer.

The executive was

completed by the new Assistant SecretaryShevern Clarke, replacing Colbert Mc Donald, with Deighton Butler, continuing his duties as a Committee Member.

Clarke had an 11-8 win over Cornelius Edwards, while Butler laced Edwards 16-2.

The life of the executive is two years.

Abbott set to be first female Vincentian qualified Cricket Umpire

Quarter Finals bowls off in North Leeward THE QUARTER finals of the 2017 VINLEC North Leeward 20/20 cricket competition will be played at the newly opened Cumberland Playing Field, instead of the Petit Bordel Playing Field.

The teams vying for semi-final spots are: Sweetie Pie Bakery Peto Stars, House of Graphics Summerset, Robertson Surveying Future Legends, Kishorne Shallow Coulls Hill Rangers, RSVG Police, Ruddy’s Electrical, Ajuba, Carlos James Troumaca Starlight.

The match-ups as provided by the North Leeward Sports Association, organisers of the competition, are as follows: Oct 14 from 10:00am AM Sweetie Pie Bakery Peto Stars vs House of Graphics Summerset, and from 2:00pm Robertson Surveying Future Legends vs K Shallow Coulls Hill Rangers; Oct 15 from 10:00am — RSVG Police vs Ruddy’s Electrical, and from 2:00pm Ajuba vs Carlos James Troumaca Starlight.

The semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday 21st October, with the finals set for Sunday 22nd October, both rounds to be played at the Cumberland Playing Field.

Meanwhile in the final round of preliminary matches, House of Graphics Summerset of Fitz Hughes defeated Robertson Surveying Future Legends of Rose Hall by 33 runs last Saturday, at Petit Bordel. Scores: Summerset 165 for 3 off 17 overs, Romano Pierre 62, Ronald Scott 55, Rawdon Bentick 26; Future Legends 132 off 15 overs, Kesron Browne 42, Oswald Soleyn 27, Kevin Small 4 for 15, Christopher Trumpet 4 for 20.

The match between Peto Stars and RSVG Police ended in a no decision as a result of rain. Before the match was called off, Police had got to 157 for 8 off 18 overs, Andrew Thomas 53, Romario Grant 47. Allison Samuel 4 for 8.

The other scheduled match between Kishore Shallow Coulls Hill Rangers and Big League was awarded to Coulls Hill Rangers. Big League had informed the tournaments’ organizers of their intention to forfeit the match.

Members of the SVG Umpires Association at last week Thursday’s elections.

Maria Abbott

MARIA ABBOTT is awaiting her official certification from the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association, to become St Vincent and the Grenadines’ first female qualified Cricket umpire.

Hint of Abbott’s elevation came as members of the local umpires’ fraternity congratulated her during last week’s hosting of their Annual General Meeting.

But newly re-elected President of the SVG Cricket Umpires

Association- Roger Davis was cagey when pressed about Abbott’s expected elevation.

Davis said that the process of Abbott’s appointment would have to be made clear by the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA).

He, however, agreed that when the next national cricket competition is held, Abbott will be getting a “qualified umpire’s pay,” for her duties.

Reports are that Abbott was one of two Vincentian

umpires who went through the process of being certified; a process which took four levels of examination.

The two underwent the local examination, the WICUA examination, as well as a practical evaluation and an oral examination.

Abbott, a former St Vincent and the Grenadines cricketer, has been umpiring in local cricket matches for the past ten years.

Owia Young Strikers come good in Greiggs Softball Cricket DEFENDING CHAMPIONS of the SVG Brewery/ FLOW/Sea Operations Nar Fen Dem Greiggs 20/20 Softball Cricket Competition- Owia Young Strikers, were in good form last Sunday at the Greiggs Central Playing Field, beating Log Enterprise Supreme Strikers by ten wickets.

Davidson Lavia took 3/10, Omar Lavia 2/1 and Denson Hoyte 2/11, as Supreme Strikers packed in for 25 in 11.3 overs.

Shen Browne then struck 18 not out, as Owia Young Strikers needed only ten balls to reach 26/0.

Also on Sunday, Dr Thomas Injectors registered a sevenwicket win over RSVG Police in a 12-over match reduced because of rain.

Malcovin Jack struck 39 not out to lead RSVG Police to 95/6 from their allotted overs. Quesnell Cottoy was Dr Thomas Injectors’

best bowler, taking 3/18.

In response, Dr Thomas Injectors took 9.5 overs to reach 100/3, with Julian Mc Nicholls grabbing the spotlight with 37.

Malcovin Jack had 3/22, bowling for RSVG Police.

It was another low scoring affair when CGM Gallagher Novice faced Street Fighters.

Novice, former winners of the competition, were blown away for 25, but took all of 12.3 overs to reach that paltry score.

Brenton Arrindell was the pick of Street Fighters’ bowlers, picking up 4/5 and Derrick Hooper had 3/2.

Street Fighters got to 29/4, to win by six wickets. Lenroy Dalzell hit 13, while Everton Durrant snared 2/19.

On Saturday, there was no play in the scheduled match between Hard Hitters and Shop for Less Clinchers One. This match will be reset.

But play was possible in the fixture featuring Bruce Law Chambers Smashers Inc. and Daverson Lavia Challengers. took 3/10, Again, bowling for Owia reduced to 15 Young Strikers. over per side, because of rain, Challengers reached 70/8 from their maximum lot.

Javon Seales was the lead scorer with 29, while Anthony John- 2/4 and Glendon James2/5, were Challengers most successful bowlers.

Smashers’ batting did not cope with the bowling of Kimon John5/14 and Keithlyn Williams- 3/20, to be dismissed for 52 in 9.2 overs.

Renrick Peters scored 18 for Smashers.

Challengers, therefore won by 18 runs.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 29.

Sports

Bright outlook for North Leeward SPORTS LOVERS and Vincentian patriots will be able to watch sports at the Cumberland Playing Field after the sun goes down. That’s if Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ wishes are fulfilled. Damage by floods in 2010 and 2013 forced reassessment of plans for rehabilitation which was earmarked many years ago.

Everyone welcomes the completion.

Cumberland will provide the platform on which youngsters will be able to develop their sporting skills. Coaches have committed themselves to being part of a Sports Academy that will be based there.

Former national football coach Sammy Carrington was among the crowd, enticed by the verdure of the outfield and the majestic scenery.

He views it as “tremendous”, and cites it a good football field.

He finds it “funny” that the best fields in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are for cricket. He is keen on working with “whoever is in charge” to share his expertise. Carrington plans to train six to 12-year-olds across gender. His offer fits in with the declarations of Kesrick Williams, of West Indies One Day International and T/20 fame, Michael ‘Lord Have Mercy’ Ollivierre, Pamenos Ballantyne and Bishon Williams who have declared their dedication.

The lights at Cumberland will drive the prospects of economic injection. Residents welcomed the venue with delight. They see it as a launching pad for social stability. The tendency of disregarding the area in whatever context can no longer be justifiable.

Quarter finals in the Vinlec North Leeward T/20 competition is set for the venue this weekend. It will be mixed feelings in North Leeward. Petit Bordel served as the home for that tournament since the playing field was opened.

Petit Bordel saw some upgrade and also endured its share of the floods which engulfed the area. The North Leeward Sports Association sacrificed to get that ground match ready.

The size of the Petit Bordel field created closer interaction between players and spectators, and the distance at times lent to close contact.

Boundaries were obviously easier to obtain at Petit Bordel.

Batsmen will have to adjust in keeping with the dynamics. There was a good example in Sunday’s opening match. Shamon Hooper is known to have backed himself in clearing the straight boundary at Petit Bordel.

He was bogged down for three deliveries against Dyke Cato when First Division champions North Leeward played Premier Division winners Radcliffe. It was clear that Hooper wanted to break the shackles, but instead of going for the safety of the ground, he lofted, only to be snaffled with a simple catch.

Bowlers will have more acreage to strut their stuff, and fieldsmen will have to extend their powers of concentration with high swirling offers.

Cumberland provides such splendour that Carrington was wooed by it. He must have been thinking perhaps 20 years down the line when with such ambience, Cumberland is bound to enhance any product.

There is the constant breeze finding outlet or entrance from the Caribbean Sea. Perched on some incline across the shore is the Cumberland Playing Field.

It is sheltered by mountains at varying gradients to the Caribbean expanse. This is the newest Vincentian landmark, an addition to attractions hidden in these parts of the globe.

Kenroy Peters sets future course KENROY PETERS - West Indies and Vincentian left arm fast bowler - is back home after a 22-week stint with Lyndel Moore Cricket Club, in the North Lanchshire Combemere cricket league, England.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN since his return, Peters, 32, reported that his team “played 17 games — five rained out causing us to finish fourth in the league, after we lost just three games. Batting wise, it was a bit of a surprise that I scored 941 runs, the most runs in the league, at an average of 65.73.

Bowling wise, I ended with 53 wickets at an average of 13.4 with 3 five wickets haul, with a best of 6 for 11; so all in all, it was a good season.”

Peters also spoke of an added role while at Lyndel. “I was like a mentor because the average age in the team was around 25, with the captain at age 24.”

But it was not only onthe-field activity for Peters. With his eyes on the time when he quits the field, he was able to complete his ECB Level 2 Coaching Certificate, in

Kenroy Peters in action in his debut Test, played against South Africa in South Africa.

which he topped his class.

“I was the top coach during the course which also included Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves (Barbados), Jason Dowers (Jamaica) and other coaches from Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India,” he said after some prodding.

Peters has one more league stint in sight. He will leave here in midNovember for Melbourne, Australia, where he will join the Plenty Power Cricket Club in the Diamond Cricket League Grade A, in their premier division campaign.

“I am really looking forward to play in Australia. This is one of the places I always wanted to play cricket, so I am glad I was given the opportunity to play there,” he admitted.

But he is thinking beyond Australia. “I believe the time is right to move on to the next level - coaching.

“I made up my mind since the last game of the CWI PCL season 2017, that this season will be my last. But it’s not the end of the road for me. … . My job now starts .. focusing on seeing Vincentian players get on to Windward Islands team ... on to the West Indies team.”

Peters also spent some time looking back, thanking the Vincentian, regional and international public for their support and the many who offered kind advice, which, he said, “I always took on board.”

On a personal note, Peters thanked his parents “for they made the sacrifice from since I was at the tender age of 12 where they had to take their last penny to send me to Arnos Vale to get my grassroot training.”

His wife also came in for special recognition, with Peters saying, “She has been the one who kept me going, especially at times when I thought this was it, but she would say ‘No, keep going, you still have something to offer’.”

A proud moment -December 26, 2015 - for Kenroy Peters as he accepts his West Indies cap from Manager Sir Richie Richardson.

He also expressed thanks to his coaches. “I am forever grateful to all the coaches who help me along the way. I have developed a personal relationship with them, but especially I want thank Ian ‘Chapple’ Allen for being a brother, and Deighton Butler for being my bowling partner and adviser. And Casper Davis for paving my path in cricket from primary school.”

The administrators and selectors at every level also came in for recognition.

Kenroy Peters played one test match for the West Indies in their 2014 tour of South Africa. He returned figures of 2 for 69. He was also a member of the 2000 West Indies Under-19 Cricket World Cup team.

In his 78 first class matches, he took 232 wickets, best 7 for 36, with an average 20.37.

He played 36 List A matches, taking 38 wickets, best 4 for 32, and averaging 27.26, economy 4.05. He was

Kenroy Peters has already decided on his involvement in cricket when he departs the field of play. involved in 14 T20 matches and took 10 wickets, best 2 for 27, average 34.30, economy 7.91.

He also has 912 first class runs with one fifty, to his credit.

I.B.A. ALLEN

V

30. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017. 31.

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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 13, 2017

VOLUME 111, No.41

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LAWYER CHALLENGES LEGALITY OF POLICE MATTER Central Police Station on Tuesday. Her objection was ATTORNEY Kay Bacchusmade on the grounds that: it is Baptiste, lead lawyer in the an abuse of process; there is a internal matter involving two lack of particularity of the members of the Police Welfare charges; the charges are Association (PWA), has objected illegal, unsubstantial, and to the proceedings going void; and the defendants forward. would be prejudiced, based on Bacchus-Baptiste made the non-disclosure. preliminary objection when Chair of the PWA, Sergeant the matter was called at the Brenton Smith has been charged on two counts of mutinous conduct, two counts of conduct to the prejudice of Good Order and Discipline, and one count of Breach of Routine Force Order.

Constable Kenroy Martin is charged with conducting himself in a manner unbecoming of a Police Officer, and Breach of Routine Force Order.

The charges were laid in connection with a report on comments made by some executive members of the PWA, including a threat to storm the office of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, during an internal WhatsApp communication, early July.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Police Constable Kenroy Bacchus-Baptiste explained Martin was transferred to that the proceedings were an Chateaubelair after charges abuse of process, because it were laid against him. would be impossible for her

by HAYDN HUGGINS

clients to get a fair trial, as the person who brought the charges is the Commissioner of Police, Renold Hadaway, and to whom the defendants would have to appeal if any decision in the case is made against them.

Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste She noted that the has lodged a four-pillared Commissioner is on objection as to why the record, according to media proceedings against her clients reports, condemning her should be discontinued. clients as being guilty, even before the hearing requests by the defence. started.

Prosecutor in the matter, The lawyer also pointed out Assistant Superintendent of that the charges were vague, Police Nigel Butcher, has and do not create offences under the Police Act. She cited requested time to respond to Bacchus-Baptiste’s case laws to back this up. submissions, and the case, Bacchus-Baptiste added that there was no authority for which is presided over by the police to charge officers for Assistant Commissioner of breaching Routine Force Order Police (ACP), in charge of under the Police Act, and that crime, Frankie Joseph, has been adjourned to November the prosecution was required 2. to disclose all relevant The accused officers are evidence to the defence. also represented by attorney She noted that her Israel Bruce. argument on the issue of disclosure was based on the case, Anjay Charles vs the Frankie Joseph, Assistant Queen.

Commissioner of Police According to the lawyer, to (ACP), in charge of crime, is date, there was no disclosure presiding over the matter of anything to the defence in involving the two police the matter involving the PWA officers. officers, despite several

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

Sergeant Brenton Smith, who holds an MSc degree in Police Leadership and Management, was transferred to Union island.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.