TheVincentianPDF-07-12-2018

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FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 07, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.49

www.thevincentian.com

„WHO MADE THOSE FIXTURES?‰ LAWYER ASKS

EC$1.50

Justice Esco Henry had little choice but to recuse herself from hearing the matter of the Election Petitions.

occurred.

Bacchus-Baptiste was speaking to ATTORNEY KAY BACCHUS-BAPTISTE, one THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday of the lawyers for the Petitioners in the morning shortly after Justice Henry case in which the opposition New took the decision to recuse herself from Democratic Party (NDP) is challenging any further hearing of the case, to the results of the December 2015 avoid any appearance of bias. general elections, is requesting answers The decision came four days after following a sharp unexpected twist of the Judge upheld an application from events on Tuesday.

Attorney Carlos James, one of the Bacchus-Baptiste, also an opposition lawyers on the Respondents’ team, for senator, is calling for an explanation the December 3 to 7 date to be as to who made the fixtures for 12 vacated, on the basis of the matters to be heard by Justice Esco unavailability of the Respondents’ lead Henry, during the same period local lawyer, Graham Bollers, due to a December 3 to 7 - she was to hear the medical problem.

Election Petitions case, and how this Continued on Page 3.

Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste wants to have an explanation as to Carlos James saw no malice behind how a mistake could be made with a the irregularity with the Justice’s Justice’s calendar. calendar.

by HADYN HUGGINS

‘DON’T BLAME US,’ SAY RESPONDENTS S.C., Legal Counsel for the Respondents in the matter, WE ARE NOT TO BE while speaking on Boom FM’s BLAMED for “dragging” on ‘OMG’ morning show on the petitions filed by New Monday.

Democratic Party (NDP) He was speaking on the candidates Benjamin Exeter issue as it related to an and Lauren Baptiste in the application submitted days 2015 General Election. before by the Respondents, for So says Anthony Astaphan, an adjournment of the hearing down to commence Dec 03, on Anthony Astaphan, S.C., the grounds of the medical Legal Counsel for the condition of Graham Bollers, Respondents, says his side is Lead Counsel for the not to be blamed for dragging Respondents. out the matter of Election Despite objections from Petitions filed by two Legal Counsel for the candidates for the NDP. Petitioners, Kay Bacchusby DAYLE DA SILVA

Baptiste, Justice Henry upheld the application and ordered that Straker and Daniel seek a new Counsel to replace Bollers.

A status hearing was set for January 24, 2019, with the petition hearing set to begin on February 11.

Continued on Page 3.

Dr. Godwin Friday, Leader of the NDP, laments the fact that after three years, the country doesn’t know whether it has a legitimate government.

V

2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Tourism

SVGTA hands out Awards

THE ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Tourism Authority (SVGTA) held its 2018 Tourism Awards last Saturday at the Grenadines House, Kingstown, to honour stakeholders for outstanding work, over the last year.

Speaking at the event, Bianca Porter, Chair of the Board of Directors of the SVGTA, said that the Awards Ceremony is an important event because it is a time when the Authority recognizes the contribution made by its staff and industry partners.

“In an industry that is growing and very important to our economy, we feel that it is important to motivate employees and parties…and others who have gone out of their way to comply with the standards implemented back in 2013,” Porter said.

She continued, saying

that they strive for excellence in the industry, adding driven by a strong conviction that St Vincent and the Grenadines offered the best product in the region.

“And we want to encourage all our stakeholders to continue striving for excellence. To continue on the path of learning, and growing, and you will see the fruits of your labour at some point,” she said.

Minister of Tourism, Sport and Culture Cecil ‘Ces’ McKie noted that tourism contributed significantly to the economy, and with that came great responsibility.

“With this responsibility, we must be ready to deliver what is expected from us because the growth and development of St Vincent and the Grenadines have been placed in our hands,”

McKie said, adding that those operating in the sector were expected to grow numbers and capacity, while continuing to improve and enhance the services delivered.

The profile of the country continued to improve and be enhanced, the minister said, therefore, it was necessary for all involved to ensure that the standards continue to be enhanced.

“Because, if we do not continue to develop and enhance these standards, persons will come and be disappointed,” McKie cautioned.

Awards distributed on the night were as follows: Bartender of the Year Daniel Peters/Grenadines House; Front Office Person of the Year Shevern Davy/Paradise Beach Hotel; Waitress of the Year - Patricia Conliffe/Young Island

Resort;Room Attendant of the Year - Jennis John-Nanton/Sunset Shores Hotel; Gardener of the Year - Bertie Young/Young Island Resort; Supervisor of the Year - Marva Richards/Beachcombers Hotel; Chef of the Year Joel Spencer/Sunset Shores Hotel; Dive Operator of the Year Serenity Dive; Yachting Operator of the Year: Sail Grenadines; Island Ambassador of the Year Romona Gibson; Hotelier of the Year: Bianca Porter; Community Group of the Year - Owia Heritage Organisation; Tourism Site of the Year - Owia Salt Pond; Port Ambassador of the Year Sonoya Browne; Immigration Officer of the Year - Verrol Thomas; Most Compliant Accommodation - Blue Lagoon Hotel and Marina (St. Vincent) and The Islanders Inn (Grenadines); Most

Bianca Porter, Chairperson of the SVGTA, sees the Awards exercise as in keeping with the need to motivate employees and all parties involved in the Tourism Industry.

Outstanding Taxi Operator - Tommie Greaves (St. Vincent) and Garvin Ollivierre (Grenadines); Most Compliant Tour Operator - Sea Breeze Nature Tours; Most Outstanding Tour Guide (Tours) -

Cecil Mc Kie, Minister of Tourism, spoke of having all stakeholders on board in the effort to ensure that SVG keeps improving as a tourism destination.

Dianetta Season; Most Outstanding Tour Guide (Training) - Camille Jacob; Employee of the Year - Kathique Haynes; Special Tourism Award C.W Prescod Primary School.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 3.

News 3 „Who made those fixtures?‰ lawyer asks initially set for hearing.

As a result of the As a result of Justice Henry’s overlapping of the dates, THE ruling, the trial dates were VINCENTIAN was informed, vacated to February 11 until the Judge thought it fit to March 1, 2019. recuse herself from any further hearing of the Election Legal teams summoned Petitions case, to avoid any interpretation that she had But the Judge subsequently prior knowledge that the trial summoned the lawyers dates were going to be involved in the case, as well as vacated. those who had other matters Bacchus-Baptiste stressed before her, for a hearing on that the Judge said she was Tuesday, during which she informed of the fixtures for the informed them that, following hearing of the other matters her ruling last Friday, she on returning to her office, learnt for the first time about after giving her ruling last fixtures made for the hearing Friday. of several other matters before According to the lawyer, her during the period the those fixtures had to be made Election Petitions case was by someone employed at the Continued from Front Page.

High Court Office, and the public needs an explanation.

‘No malice’ However, speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, Attorney Carlos James said, “I don’t think there was any malice behind this (clashing of the dates).

Nobody stood up in Court and said this was intentional.”

James said that both parties, including BacchusBaptiste, agreed, during submissions on Tuesday, that the clashing of the dates was an administrative error, and despite expressing their full confidence in the Judge

hearing the case, she felt it necessary to recuse herself.

James said these things do happen, as there are several matters the High Court Office has to deal with administratively.

He said the next step would be for the Chief Registrar of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, based in St Lucia, to appoint a new Judge, and he thinks there is sufficient time between now and February 11.

James declined to comment on the case, saying that it was before the Court, but added, “We maintain that general elections have always been free and fair in St. Vincent

and the Grenadines”.

Bacchus-Baptiste said, “We are resolute that these petitions would be heard, and we are expecting that a new Judge would be appointed to hear them expeditiously.

“I am disappointed. These are very serious matters that concern the democratic right to vote by secret ballot, and it’s a travesty that after three years these matters have not been concluded, and now we have an unexpected setback.

But we have a strong case and we intend to seek the Petitioners’ rights.”

Up to press time Wednesday, efforts to reach High Court Registrar Andrea Young were unsuccessful.

‘Don’t blame us,’ say Respondents Continued from Front Page.

The matter came in for possible further delay when on last Tuesday, Dec. 04, Justice Henry recused from hearing the matter after she discovered that other matters had been set for hearing during the period Dec 4 — 7.

A new judge will have to be appointed, making a further postponement of the (new) date set by Justice Henry a real possibility.

Respondents side ready But Astaphan said that the Legal Counsel for the Respondents were ready to go to trial, “so it is not that we were not ready.”

He said that the nonVincentian members of the respondent’s legal team had already booked flights and rooms.

Arrangements were

made to meet with their clients, “Why would we go through all of this?

For a show?” he conjectured.

“They will have to blame themselves for the dragging of the case,” Astaphan said.

According to the legal counsel, after Justice Brian Cottle had to deal with the issue of security and preparations were ongoing for the hearing, the petitioners made an application for disclosure.

This was denied, then there was a second application for disclosure, this time under Justice Henry.

“We had to reschedule so that all of us could prepare for it; we got a date and the judge gave a ruling,” he said.

There was another instance where witness statements were filed by the petitioners, but because they went “beyond the boundaries

of the pleaded case,” Astaphan said that the counsel for the respondents had no choice but to challenge this, to which the judge agreed.

Then there was a third request for the inspection of ballots and boxes.

“During all this time, while we are moving forward, we are all making arrangements to come to get ready for the trial on the week of December 3,” Astaphan said.

“So if you are getting frustrated, you must get frustrated with both sides. Following the decision on the security, we were not the ones who filed applications in the court,” he continued.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday said at a press briefing on Wednesday, that he and the entire NDP were disappointed with the

turn of events.

Citing that it had been three years since the last General Elections, and since the petitions had been filed, he declared, “We deplore the fact that after three years, the people of this country still do not know whether the government was duly elected and is legitimate.

How can this be?”

According to Friday, this was unacceptable especially for a modern democratic society.

“The petitions could have been decided long ago if the parties on the other side had shown willingness in having them decided by the court once and for all.

“Instead, they have sought to delay and drag the cases out as long as possible,” he said.

Counsel and Senator Bacchus-Baptiste said that the matters involving the petitions were the most important ones before the High Court for trial, not only

in SVG but the entire Eastern Caribbean.

She noted that the most recent development, that of Justice Henry recusing herself also had consequences.

“The impact on the trial is not known yet because the Chief Justice will now have to clear his or her calendar to come to St Vincent to hear the petitions,” she said.

A status hearing has been set for January, but realistically, BacchusBaptiste said that it was not certain if the new judge will be ready by then.

She said even the issue as it related to Bollers was questionable.

Bacchus-Baptiste explained that she was not questioning her colleague’s health, but said that she questioned the medical certificate he produced to the court which indicated that he had been placed on 30 days sick leave and

effective the end of November.

She said that Bollers had been seen in Kingstown during the week and that she had received communication via ‘Whatsapp’ early Monday morning on a court matter that they are both involved in.

“I think this is an issue that should be taken up in the region.

We have an order saying that the matter ought to be heard expeditiously, and we have what I can only say is an attempt by the other side to frustrate our effort to have our petition heard.

“It is a fair comment based on the history, and I have been intimately involved in these cases, and this is how I feel. An orchestrated effort to frustrate this matter ever coming to justice,” Bacchus-Baptiste said.

See related story on Page 7.

V

4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Youth on multiple gun-related charges Ottley Hall, are charged with the attempted TWO MEN were remanded, murder of 16-year-old while another was granted Juwanni Roberts of bail, when they appeared Redemption Sharpes; at the Serious Offences attempting to discharge Court this week on four a firearm within 100 firearm related charges, yards of the public road; including attempted possession of a .38 murder. revolver, without licence; Kareem Charles, 27, and possession of five and Shamol Richardson, rounds of ammunition.

18, both labourers of The charges reportedly Redemption Sharpes, stem from an incident in along with Sage John, Grenville Street, 22, unemployed, of Kingstown around 6:30

by HAYDN HUGGINS

p.m. November 24.

Charles and Richardson appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Monday, while John made his appearance the following day.

The men were not required to plea to the charges; but while Richardson was granted bail, Charles and John were remanded.

In objecting to bail for Charles, Senior

Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the Magistrate that the defendant had two matters before the Court for wounding with intent and firearm possession, for which he was granted bail. He noted that those offences reportedly occurred on August 24 this year, and Charles was before the Court again on firearm related charges.

Delpleche

Sandy Bay man charged with robbing elderly man CALVERT JOHN, a 34-year-old man of London, Sandy bay, was granted $6,000 bail with one surety when he appeared at the Serious Offences Court Tuesday, charged with robbing and causing bodily harm to an 84-year-old man last Saturday.

John is accused of robbing Elford Osment, who is also from Sandy Bay but resides in Canada, of EC$1,237 in cash, a cellular phone valued EC$900, several ATM cards and other items. He is also accused of assaulting Osment causing him bodily harm.

John was not required to plea to the charges during his appearance before Chief

Magistrate Rechanne Browne on Tuesday. He was granted bail on condition that he report to the Sandy Bay Police Station, and ordered not to contact the virtual complainant. The matter was adjourned to THE VINCENTIAN March 6, 2019. understands that John’s girlfriend It is alleged that Osment was attacked, beaten and robbed at his is Osment’s adopted daughter.

Attorney Grant Connell Sandy Bay home last Saturday. appeared on John’s behalf.

acknowledged that they were all allegations, but expressed the view that Charles seems to have a propensity for offences of this nature.

Charles’ attorney Jomo Thomas made an unsuccessful application for bail, arguing that they were bailable offences, and to deny someone his liberty on the ground that there is an allegation against him, was insufficient reason to have his client locked away until there is a Preliminary Inquiry (P.I).

In his objections to bail for John who was unrepresented, Delpleche said the accused was already on bail on charges of robbery and firearm possession which

reportedly occurred in September this year, and he is again before the Serious Offences Court charged with similar offences.

The Prosecutor contended that the constitutional rights of the accused have to balance with the duty of the state to protect the rights of its citizens.

Richardson was granted bail in the sum of $40,000 with one surety, on condition that he report to the Central Police Station once a week and surrender his travel documents. He was also placed on a dusk to dawn curfew.

The matter was adjourned to March 15, 2019.

Peto men on Foreigner walks in fine style drug charges DAN MARTINSEN, a national of Norway, visiting these shores, walked out the Serious Offences Court Monday without even having to pay a fine for possession of the deadly drug cocaine.

Martinsen had pleaded guilty to

possession of .30 grams of cocaine, but was allowed to leave the Court after Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne took into account his guilty plea, and the time he spent in custody before being taken to Court. Martinsen had spent the weekend in

custody.

Before the defendant left, Browne told him, “When you are in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I want you to enjoy all that St. Vincent and the Grenadines has to offer; but you must keep a level head, or if you are found in violation of the law, you will be brought to justice like anyone else.”

The Court had earlier heard that around 9:05 p.m., November 30, police on foot patrol of Port Elizabeth, Bequia, saw Martinsen standing outside someone’s bedroom window, and another man standing in the yard.

The lawmen kept him

under observation, and saw him collect something through the window. The other man in the yard shouted, “Police,” and the defendant dropped a foil paper wrapping on the ground.

An officer then approached him, identified himself, and retrieved the foil paper wrapping found to contain cocaine.

Martinsen was cautioned, and replied, “That is not mine”.

Martinsen told the Court that he was drunk, and someone tried to sell him something.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that the Norwegian visitor came here legally on a boat.

PETIT BORDEL residents Deron Louie and Michael Lavia will answer jointly to drug-related charges.

When the men appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, December 3rd before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, they were formally charged for: having 2,229 grams of cocaine in their possession with intent to supply to another and for the purpose of trafficking; and having 350 grams of marijuana in their possession with intent to supply to another and for the purpose of trafficking.

The Court heard that members of the Rapid Response Unit intercepted the men at Villa with the cocaine and marijuana, on December 1st, 2018.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpesche had no objection to bail which was allowed in the sum of $30,000.00 each with one surety.

The men have also been ordered to report to the Chateaubelair Police Station on Mondays and Thursdays between 6am and 6pm. They are to surrender all travel documents to the Court.

Louie and Lavia are slated to return to court on January 11th, 2019 for trial.

V ECCB reviewing Scotiabank deal

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07 , 2018. 5.

Regional

THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN CENTRAL BANK (ECCB) has confirmed, Dec. 01, that it has received and has begun to review an application from Republic Financial Holdings (owner of the Republic Bank Group), “seeking regulatory approval to acquire the Bank of Nova Scotia’s operations and businesses in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU).”

The ECCB also confirmed that it has held initial discussions with the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago and the Bank of Guyana.

In a Dec. 01 statement, the ECCB reminded citizens within its jurisdiction that changes in ownership of banks are not uncommon, and that the proposed transaction is the latest in a series of consolidation moves by the Canadian banks.

“Citizens and residents in the ECCU should come to expect these developments as part of the banks’ response to both global developments and competition in the ECCU banking space, the ECCB statement read, adding that the ECCB continues “to encourage indigenous (national) banks to cooperate and consolidate to ensure the interests of the people of the ECCU are

Sir Hilary Beckles - UWI Vice Chancellor moved quickly to dispel any illconceived ideas that may have been sowed regarding The University of Glasgow and reparation payments to The UWI.

‘Hold on!’, says Sir Hilary

UWI VICE CHANCELLOR Sir Hilary Beckles has moved to put the brakes on expectations that may have arisen, following news that the University of Glasgow had agreed to pay some £200 million in reparations, to the University of the West Indies.

Early this week, Sir Hillary issued a statement in which he said, “while the quoted content of the The ECCB (headquarters pictured) is appealing to East Caribbean story is correct, the headline that suggests an citizens to remain calm in the face of Scotiabank’s announcement agreement to pay £200 million to The UWI is not.” that it will sell nine of its Caribbean operations.

Sir Hilary acknowledged that The University of best served.”

Bank of Nova Scotia’s divestment Glasgow had admitted that the amount in fees, According to the statement, the of its Antigua holdings about endowment and grants were received from ECCB already regulates Republic which there was no consultation.

Caribbean slave owners, but he stressed that Bank, since it has an operation in “Until other options for deliberations on payment of reparations are still Grenada and a stake in a bank in divestment are explored, ongoing.

Saint Lucia. particularly providing a “The universities are working through a Shortly after last week’s consortium of local banks the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ….. but announcement by Scotiabank and right of first refusal to acquire the there is no ‘agreement’ about the repayment of £200 Republic Bank of Trinidad and Antigua and Barbuda operations, million to The UWI,” he said.

Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda the government of Antigua and Sir Hilary also disclosed that The UWI has had Prime Minister Gaston Browne Barbuda will not issue a vesting excellent conversations about how “the University advised the ECCB that his order,” PM Browne said in his of Glasgow can contribute to cleaning up the government will not be issuing a letter. (Source: Caribbean News colonial legacies of slavery that are holding back vesting order to facilitate the Now) the region.”

A report entitled ‘Slavery, Abolition and the University of Glasgow’, published decided to journey to Mauritius to recently by the defend our position. After making university, reveals that our case to the delegates, the it benefited directly from overwhelming sentiment was that the slave trade in Africa it would be a travesty if our and the Caribbean in nomination was not accepted. the 18th and 19th That gave us supreme centuries to the tune of confidence”. almost £200 million in When the Jamaica file was today’s money. It introduced on the floor, all 23 revealed that 16 members of the Intangible bursaries, endowments Cultural Heritage (ICH) and mortifications Committee expressed their donated to the support, and asked the Jamaican institution between 1809 Delegation to take the floor to and 1937 had a direct clarify the concerns raised by the link to profits from Minister Olivia Grange led a Evaluation Body. Jamaica made slavery.

Cedella Marley and the Bob Marley Foundation gave permission its presentation, the delegates sustained effort on behalf of The university has for the use of Marley’s music and image in Jamaica’s effort to her country and Reggae showed their support and the announced that it has gain the coveted inscription.

Music. room erupted in jubilation. launched a wide-ranging Minister Grange thanked the List of the Intangible Cultural REGGAE MUSIC, the uniquely and Sport, the Honourable Olivia delegates for their support, and and ambitious Heritage of Humanity following Jamaican creation, has been Grange. reparative justice led the meeting in singing Bob inscribed on the UNESCO Minister Grange was moved to Marley’s iconic song ‘One Love’ in the addition of the Maroon programme that is Heritage of Moore Town in 2008.

Representative List of Intangible tears following the announcement celebration at the historic based on the findings of Jamaica–Reggae music of Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and the support which Jamaica’s inscription. more than two years of Jamaica–Originating within the research. In addition, it and Jamaicans can now breathe a nomination received from more In expressing appreciation for cultural space of marginalized sigh of relief. than 190 State Parties in announced that it the inscription, Minister Grange groups, mainly in Western They had waited with bated attendance at the meeting. intends to implement said “Jamaicans have long Kingston, the Reggae Music of breath for the 13th session of the “It shows the popularity of programmes and recognised that Reggae music Jamaica combines musical UNESCO Intergovernmental Reggae music across the world means so much to so many across influences from earlier Jamaican projects that will Committee for the Safeguarding and the captivating influence of the world. This inscription will provide scholarships and forms as well as Caribbean, of the Intangible Cultural the Jamaican art form,” said invariably bring even more exchange programmes North American and Latin Heritage in the Republic of Minister Grange. visibility to UNESCO’S for Jamaican and other strains.

Its basic functions as a Mauritius, Novemebr 13, when Minister Granger’s insistence Representative List of the vehicle of social commentary, as a Caribbean students the application to have raggae and persistence was seen in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of through its links with cathartic experience, and means Music so inscribed would have fact that the UNESCO Humanity and intangible cultural of praising God remain The UWI. been made.

Evaluation Body had heritage as a whole, and it Sir Hilary was one of unchanged, and the music The decision was made at the recommended that Jamaica’s demonstrates Reggae’s global three external advisors continues to provide a voice for 13th session after a strong lobby nomination be deferred to the impact”. to the ‘Slavery, Abolition all. Students are taught how to and advocacy by the Government next round in 2 years. However, Reggae becomes the second and the University of play it from an early age, and of Jamaica, led by the Minister of Minister Grange said, “we were Jamaican ‘element’ to be Glasgow’ report. (Source: festivals and concerts are central Culture, Gender, Entertainment not willing to accept that, and inscribed on the Representative Caribbean 360) to ensuring its viability.

Reggae on Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List

V More education on CCJ needed 6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

more educational work,” said President Justice Adrian Saunders while delivering the Maxwell Haywood kingnaking210@yahoo.com Memorial Lecture Friday night at US CORRESPONDENT Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. (See accompanying article) IN THE WAKE of the referendum defeats Speaking on “The Role and in Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda in Importance of the CCJ in advancing adopting the Caribbean Court of Justice the Caribbean Civilization,” (CCJ) as the region’s final court of Vincentian-born Saunders pointed to appeal, the court’s President has what he said were two principal admitted that more still needs to be reasons for the defeat of the referenda done to educate the public about the role in Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda. of the court.

“Firstly, it is a fact that people have “I’m not worried about the unhappy experiences with their local referendum results in Antigua and justice systems,” he said. “If the court Grenada; but what it tells us, we need is held in a less than adequate courthouse; if the courtroom is stiflingly hot; if the case is adjourned again and again and again; if a murder accused spends 10 years on remand before his case is heard; then the idea of replacing a British institution (Privy Council) with a Caribbean one is instinctively unappealing.”

But Justice Saunders said “that’s where the second reason kicks in,” stressing: “We have not done enough to inform and educate people about the CCJ. “In Antigua, those who led the ‘no’ vote claimed that we were a shiny new attic on a termite ridden house,” he said. “That analogy is specious. Firstly, the CCJ is not an organic part of the local justice system. The CCJ is a separate house.

“And not only are there no termites in this house, but we are organised in such a way as to help get rid of any termites that might exist elsewhere,” he added.

Justice Saunders — who assumed the presidency of the CCJ in July this year — said a Caribbean Court, staffed with the best Caribbean judges, “is Justice Saunders receives token of able to give greater effect to our appreciation from Dr. Gladys aspirations as a people.”

Schrynemakers, Associate Provost, He said that, for the last 13 Medgar Evers College.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net;

years, the CCJ has been “dispensing justice for Barbados and Guyana to the satisfaction of the peoples of those countries.”

He said that when former Barbados Prime Minister Freundal Stuart made what he described as “uncomplimentary statements” about the CCJ in the lead up to the last general elections in Barbados earlier this year, “he was roundly condemned by the ordinary man and woman of Barbados.

“The CCJ is more than capable of handling the region’s appeals,” Justice CCJ Justice Adrian Saunders delivers inaugural Maxwell Haywood Scholarship and Development Saunders underscored, Fund lecture. adding: “If we are to advance as a people, the US Supreme Court, or like the politics and political tussles are British Privy Council.” important for a healthy democracy.

Based in Port of Spain, Trinidad “But there are eternal core human and Tobago, the CCJ essentially has values that are overarching — truth, two jurisdictions — original and compassion, cooperation, caring, appellate. courtesy, empathy, hard honest In its original jurisdiction, the CCJ labour,” he continued. “These are interprets and applies the Revised values opposition and government Treaty of Chaguaramas, which alike, and, indeed, all the people, must established CARICOM, and is an promote.” international court with compulsory But Justice Saunders said there is and exclusive jurisdiction regarding another value, which he said is paramount — “one that is vital for us in interpretation of the treaty.

In its appellate jurisdiction, the CCJ the Caribbean with our fractured experiences of slavery and colonialism. hears appeals as the court of last resort in both civil and criminal That other value is self-belief; a clear matters from CARICOM membersense of ourselves; an understanding states, which have ceased to permit of our worth as human beings; an appreciation that we are not inferior to appeals to the Judicial Committee of anyone, and that we have the capacity the Privy Council (JCPC).

To date, only to forge our own destiny.”

Saunders said a major step forward Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Guyana have replaced the Privy in self-reliance came when the Council appellate jurisdiction with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) that of the CCJ. established the CCJ in 2003.

Justice Saunders said if all He said the CCJ is “two courts in CARICOM nations were to make the one: It is a CARICOM treaty court, CCJ their final court of appeals, “we’ll like the European Court of Justice, be doing a great service to our children and it is a final court of appeal, like and our children’s children.”

Maxwell Haywood Fund officially launched IN AN ELABORATE CEREMONY at Brooklyn’s Medgar Evers College, the Brooklynbased St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc. on Friday officially launched the Maxwell Haywood Scholarship and Development Fund.

The fund was established after the passing, on Nov. 17, 2017, of the group’s founding chairman, Maxwell Haywood, a Vincentian community

activist in Brooklyn and an alumnus of Medgar Evers College. Haywood had succumbed to cancer.

According to Haywood’s widow, Sherill-Ann MasonHaywood, who succeeded Haywood as chairperson of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc., the fund seeks to advance Haywood’s work and to “preserve his legacy through the provision of scholarships to secondary school and

college students in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and New York.”

Mrs. Mason-Haywood also said the fund’s goal is aimed at “the delivery of informational and educational lectures, forums and workshops focused on the issues of Diasporas, migration and development.”

Scholarships from the fund have already been distributed to two young school boys in St. Vincent and the Grenadines —

Trevon Paul, attending the St. Vincent Grammar School, and Alfresco Lampkin, attending the Thomas Saunders Secondary School, for the academic year 20182019, Mrs. MasonHaywood said.

A number of dignitaries were on hand Friday evening at the launching ceremony.

They included Justice Adrian Saunders, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ); Rene

Baptiste, Speaker of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Bar Association; St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador to the United Nations I. Rhonda King; St. Vincent and the Grenadines Consul General to the United States Howie Prince; Consul General designate of Trinidad and Tobago Jerome LaVoe; and Associate

Sherrill-Ann MasonHaywood addresses launching ceremony.

Provost, Medgar Evers College, Dr. Gladys Schrynemakers.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07 , 2018. 7.

News

Election Petitions matter: Objection not based on health

THE OBJECTION to an adjournment in the petition hearing was not based on whether Graham Bollers was ill or not, but rather whether or not it was mandatory for him to make up the legal counsel for the respondents.

Legal counsel representing both parties were summoned on November 27, with those mitigating on behalf of the petitioners being told that an application had been made for an adjournment because of Bollers’ health.

Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, one of two legal counsels representing petitioner Benjamin Exeter and Lauren Baptiste, explained why the objection was raised.

She cited that Bollers was representing Sir Louis Straker and Montgomery Daniel, Parliamentary Representatives for Central Leeward and North Windward respectively, but neither of the two was the focus of the petition hearing.

“No specific allegation was made against them,” BacchusBaptiste said on Wednesday during a press briefing.

She explained that the allegations were made against the then Supervisor of Elections, Sylvia Findlay, for the poor manner in which the 2015 General Elections was conducted.

“So Bollers was representing these persons who did not give a single witness statement. There was no witness statement by them, so we say Bollers has to come to look after their interest,” Bacchus-Baptiste said.

Bollers barely spoke Furthermore, in all the previous appearances and amidst all the applications, she said that Bollers barely said that he agreed with the submissions that were made by Senior Counsel, Anthony

Astaphan who was part of the legal team which comprised of eight lawyers representing the respondents.

“So, we were not being facetious, we were saying that the senior counsel was competent to conduct the case without having to disturb Bollers. They cannot deny that fact,” she said.

“Our objection, and it was the objection of both petitioners and the legal team for the petitioners who thought that it was not necessary to adjourn the trial because Mr Bollers is ill and should be home on sick leave during that period.”

Distasteful objection Notwithstanding BacchusBaptiste’s explanation, Anthony Astaphan, speaking on Boom FM’s ‘OMG’ morning radio programme, said that it was the first time in the thirty or so

years that he has been practising law, that someone objected to an adjournment based on the health of another colleague.

“Descent, professional people do not question the integrity of a doctor’s report or counsel statement,” Astaphan said.

Up until that day when the application was made for the adjournment, Bollers had complied with every order handed down by the judge.

He added that he had known Bollers for some 25 years, and came to discover that he was Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, having similar problems then to counsel for the petitioners, what he was experiencing now. sought to explain that the Astaphan, however, noted objection to the application that the respondents were for the adjournment had proceeding with the matter, and nothing to do with Bollers’ that by December 14, following health problems. the report from Bollers’ cardiologist, if it is determined that he cannot continue, then he continue if the doctor’s report is will be replaced, but that he will favourable. (DD)

NDP delegate visits China IN DEMONSTRATION of its acceptance of the United Nations ‘One China Policy’, the opposition New Democratic Party mounted a delegation to the People’s Republic of China (China), to establish contacts with government and major business officials there.

A NDP release of Dec. 5, 2018, stated that the delegation, which visited Beijing and Shanghai, was led by Party Leader Dr. Godwin Friday.

It also included former Party Leader Arnhim Eustace, MP Hon. Terrence Ollivierre and party member Benjamin Exeter, shadow candidate for Central Leeward.

According to the release, the delegation had high-level meetings with Chinese officials and ministers including Chairman Wan Gang of the China Zhi Gong Party.

In Beijing, Dr Friday and his team discussed people to people and party to party relationship.

Chairman Wan welcomed the delegation stating: “We don’t base our relationship on the size of the country but on the value of the relationship with the

people,” the release stated.

Additionally, the release disclosed, that the NDP has begun to explore with Beijing the likelihood of a number of these exchanges beginning in 2019.

In Shanghai City, the release recorded that the NDP delegation met with Chinese business leaders, who expressed keen interest in looking at investing with local businesses in St Vincent and the Grenadines, which would result in mutual benefits for both parties.

Towards this end. discussions were held about the possibility of Chinese investors teaming with local entrepreneurs to invest in many sectors of the local economy.The opposition leader is eager for investments in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and technological sectors were identified as possible areas of investment.

“Foreign investment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must be a win-win scenario where local businesses and citizens benefit along with the investor. So, we must attract foreign investment while

promoting the economic interests and well-being of our people” the release quotes Dr, Friday as saying.

And seemingly in justification of its position on the ‘One China Policy’, in the face of current relations between this country and Taiwan, Dr. NDP espoused: “While St Vincent and the Grenadines is one of a handful of countries which do not have relations with China, the NDP which has adopted the United Nation’s ‘One China’ policy, stated that both sides do not have to wait for state-to-state relationships to promote business and cultural exchanges.”

He added, “At the end of the day, our role is to facilitate the empowerment of the Vincentian people, and the NDP could play a positive role in convincing investors to come to do business with us. This will have meaning for ordinary people all over the country, and this is what excites us,” Dr Friday said.

Editor’s Note: China Zhi Gong Party is a noncommunist political party with about 38,000 members, mainly

comprised of overseas Chinese who have returned to the mainland, relatives of Chinese nationals living abroad, and those who have close relations with overseas Chinese.

It is one of eight noncommunist parties in China that participate in state affairs under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

(Source:chinadaily.com) Wan Gang, Chairman of the China Zhi Gong Party, with whom the NDP delegation held discussions.

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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Can’t stop Scotiabank SCOTIABANK, formerly the Bank of Nova Scotia, opened its Kingstown branch in 1977.

This, for obvious reasons of the time (1970s), struck a pleasing chord with business people and everyday people alike, here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

After all, Scotiabank was one of the earliest commercial banks to operate in the Caribbean.

It was Scotiabank which financed the export of codfish from Nova Scotia and the import of sugar and rum to Canada, a lucrative trade if ever there was one.

Its first full branch was opened in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1889, from whence it branched out into 25 Caribbean and Central American countries, and became the largest commercial bank in the Caribbean.

It is safe to conclude that Scotiabank would have ‘learned’ to navigate the political and economic challenges of a region torn between British institutions of law and government, and the practices of American style capitalism.

But, seasons changed, and so too did the world trade order, and the Caribbean was not left unscathed.

Foreign-owned banks operating in the fragile Caribbean island economies, especially in the later 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century, moved to consolidate and rationalize their operations.

Devolvement and/or mergers became viable options for some, as doing business in the Caribbean became much more regulated. Some of those who chose to remain, even opened up to offering shareholding opportunities to Caribbean persons.

As such, therefore, the decision by Scotiabank to ‘sell’ their operations in nine Caribbean countries to Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, should not come as a surprise to government heads and others in the territories.

Before we play possum on the heels of Scotiabank’s recent move, consider whether or not we simply chose to forget that several years ago, Scotiabank made what it described as a “a long-term, strategic corporate decision”, to scale down its operations across the region.

According to the bank, this was based on its studies which were not very encouraging about the projected profit and degree of risk it would have to endure in the small island economies of the region.

Additionally, Scotiabank spoke to looking to reduce operating costs, and

identified shifting to Latin America which offered larger markets and lower labour costs.

Why, therefore, are some of us crying like spoilt brats when we knew the likelihood of withdrawal from our market was real and not imaginative?

We have now arrived at the real thing: Scotiabank is seeking to sell its banking operations in nine of the 21 Caribbean markets.

Regardless of how much Prime Ministers would want to react to this development with bravado and even threats, there is little governments can do in market economies like ours, to stop companies from doing what they think is in their interest.

Scotiabank will sell its operations, will vacate its space in those nine Caribbean markets - it is just a matter of time!

And given Scotiabank’s international profile, its vacating those nine Caribbean markets could well have implications for correspondent banking services for, especially, indigenous banks.

Banks have been watchful of the changing bases and faces of Caribbean economies. They note the Caribbean’s challenge to develop their economies and to remain low labour cost attractions.

For sure, we would expect that governments and trade unions, where they matter, to extract certain assurances in favour of workers currently employed by Scotiabank.

But even as this has to be pursued to the letter of the relevant laws, this is an area that must be handled with care so as to avoid unnecessary haste in the withdrawal and set ‘regrettable’ precedent.

Then, there is the question for all governments of the region: Just what would have caused this action

by Scotiabank after more than 100 years of operations? Only an honest answer will guide the future.

The good thing about this whole development is that the holdings of a foreign entity are destined to be taken over by a Caribbean-owned institution.

But that is another story, since we have to accept that there is a growing trans-Caribbean class of corporations that threatens to overwhelm certain market activities in the smaller economies of the region.

The enemy is not always beyond our borders.

John DaSilva aka Sonny Otway (Pt 1) THESE WORDS were prepared for the funeral of John Sonny Da Silva who was buried last week, November 30th , in London.

We meet on this blessed day to celebrate the life of my brother-in-law John Da Silva, otherwise known as Sonny Otway, who said good-bye to us all in his ninetieth year.

He was born a favourite son of Georgetown in SVG, and was married to my sister, Ena with whom he had shared a beautiful life of togetherness for, I believe, a record of 62 years, though somewhat punctuated by the illnesses of Ena whom he has left at 92 years old.

But Ena has been left with not only pleasant memories of Sonny, but his legacy of three children, Beverly born in St Vincent, John and Robin born in London, who are guaranteed to provide love, comfort and security to their mother in the absence of their father.

Robin exhibited a glimpse of his inheritance form his father’s genius in cricket, when he was considered for the English team at the tail-end of the twentieth century.

Ena had had a son, Trevor, who had joined and completed a beautiful foursome, but he unfortunately died several years ago. For his own part, Sonny also fathered a pre-marital son, Ian Da Silva, who remained in SVG but maintained a healthy relationship with his siblings in London.

Sonny has also left to mourn his sister, Mabel Kirby with whom he grew up in a fairly tight embrace with their mother Agnes, at the residence and business place of Mr. Otway who served as a very loving and generous father-figure to both Sonny and Mabel.

I feel sure that the nephew of Aggie, Felix Da Silva, will also appreciate mention of his name in this farewell.

But our real story begins in 1952 when I was fourteen years old attending the Boys Grammar School. I learned that a powerful Barbadian team, Wanderers was engaging a local national side at Arnos Vale. My fellow student and enthusiast of the game, “Pee Wee” Glen and I could hardly wait for classes to end at 3:00 pm, to jog the two miles to Arnos Vale to view the match.

We were mauled by the Bajans who had a few West Indian players. But apart from the fantastic fielding of Garvey Bailey of Mt. Bentick, the

Vincentian player who was most impressive was Sonny with his unbelievable in-swing bowling.

As fate would have it, Ena told me that she has a mission for me; she had met the man of her dreams, Sonny Otway, at an outing to La Soufriere the previous weekend, and he told her his team would be playing at Victoria Park, the following Sunday. So, I did my public relations assignment, and later on at a meeting with Ena, it was arranged that whenever Mt. Bentick played at the Park, I would deliver to him a basket of goodies which Sonny, with a couple team members, would have at Tea Time at Barney Jacobs’ home situated around the Park.

As the romance flourished, there were demands and generous gifts. The team came to town for games, with Sonny wishing to lime after the match, while the team and driver wished to travel to Georgetown at the end of the day’s play. Problem was easily solved: Sonny would pay for sending his teammates for the Sunday Night feature film, and so permit him to carry on with his bride-to-be up until the midnight hour!

1953 was a bumper year for the couple and their relationship. First, I made the Grammar School First X1, under Clifford “Inky” Williams, as a right-arm leg-spinner batting at number 11 in my first long pants built

by Gale De Shong. We had to play Mount Bentick at Victoria Park on Sunday.

Eventually, with 9 wickets down, I had to face Da Silva who gave me an express delivery pitched about off stump cutting back viciously. I played back and across somewhat exaggeratively, for my leg stump was exposed and rocked back by the swinging ball. The Park exploded to the comments of a regular “character” known as “Poor Fella”. He called out to Sonny, “You wicked so-and-so”, and advised me thus, “John don’t make him come back in your house for your sissy; you all must pelt him down with rocks!” The crowd roared with laughter as I walked back to the pavilion, my head bowed, drowning in embarrassment.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 9.

Letters

Brexit, good for us Searching VINCENTIANS should not really be concerned about Brexit, the exit of Great Britain from the European Union. Brexit is not isolationism; on the contrary, it is about a greater involvement in the Commonwealth and international trade generally.

Which is good for us all.

On entry into the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1972, the powers that be in Britain thought that the then fast economic growth in Europe would continue, and that the poor economic growth in the New Commonwealth, and what used to be called the “Third World”, would last forever. Now that situation has reversed, India and China are the fastest growing economies in the world. China has become the second largest economy in the world, lifting some seven hundred million people out of poverty.

Unprecedented in human history.

Whatever one’s views on Brexit, the European Project is not all it was cracked up to be. In 1953 Britain’s Gross National Product (GNP) per capita was US$930, which placed it in 4th place in the world, below the United States, Canada and Switzerland, way ahead of France and Germany, both at 8th and 9th respectively. Britain’s position in the World’s Gross Domestic

Product stakes is now 24th, and this is despite 45 years in the European project from the Common Market (EEC) to the European Union (EU). We were told in the 60s and the 70s that membership of the EEC and its destination would provide us with ever greater living standards. The above figures do not bear this out.

In the interest of the liberalization of trade, the benefits therefrom, and to counter the rise of the EEC, the conservative administration under Harold McMillion played a leading role in the formation of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 1960, and surprisingly by 1961 they applied to join the EEC! The French were not in favour of Britain’s entry into the EEC, and so it was left to Harold Wilson’s Labour administration to reapply in 1967; this was again rejected by the French. We were finally accepted to the EEC in 1972 under the Ted Heath Conservative administration.

The abandonment of EFTA, which included Norway and Switzerland, was of little concern to Britain political classes then.

Now the GNP per head in Norway and Switzerland dwarfs that of Britain, and this is despite the

North Sea oil bonanza. The question arises, what has happened to the proceeds from North Sea oil? Norway’s oil fund is now the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, it is now over one trillion US dollars. Will the political classes ever accept they were wrong? Never in a million years!

European nationalists are in denial, Empire building or rebuilding are things of the past, and so is ganging up in International Relations in search of an illusive “Balance of Power”.

Europe don’t have a “right to rule”. Britain on the other hand have a right to self-determination, and to rely on the Law of Comparative advantage in Economics, and not to pay to Trade.

The Commonwealth and what used to be called the Third World are doing fine in the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the wider world. Then why not Britain the sixth largest economy in the world?

Clinton McCree LLB Hons. Diploma in Economics Diploma in International Affairs University of London

The herb must be made legal AND GOD SAID, “See, I have given you every herb (including marijuana) that yields seed which is on the face

of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food. Then God saw everything that

Thinking about our agriculture A FRIEND of mine here in Jamaica shared some useful information with me.

He said that a friend of his had recently returned from a forum in the USA, and he was very excited.

The forum to which he referred was the Annual Invest Caribbean Agribusiness Forum, hosted by the Washington-based Institute of Caribbean Studies, the same institute that recently bestowed an honour on Oliver Samuels.

My friend said that his friend had told him that the forum provided an opportunity to speak to US law and agricultural policymakers, international funding agencies, US firms, buyers, regional players, and other industry experts.

Of course, this got me thinking, and my first thought had to do with whether we, SVG, had any representation at this forum.

Given that agriculture still makes a reasonable contribution to our GDP, and given that the Argyle International Airport is supposed to be a gateway to the world for our agricultural products, I would think that our people back home would have seen to it that we were represented.

Then again, I wonder: Are we really serious about our agriculture?

I’m certain that a person like Mr. LeRoy Providence would very readily have an answer to that question.

Paul - Jamaica

He had made, and indeed it was very good”.

Genesis 1:29-31.

Sometime ago, some people said, directly or indirectly, that God was wrong to say marijuana was very good.

Marijuana is dangerous for the human health, and in accordance with that, an international law was enacted. Our government and people, as a Christian nation, are of the opinion that the God of creation said that marijuana is very good for food/health, and laws are about to be enacted for the good use of the herb.

We have to assure ourselves, that if these laws are not strong enough to give justice and security to all the players, there will be more bloodshed and killing than what took place in the hills, sea and elsewhere.

And we must not forget the political battlefield in which we are at this moment: the NDP voicing what they see as shortcomings in the bills to become law soon; and the splitting (NDP vs ULP?) of the Rasta movement, as far as support for the bills is

WHILE IN CUBA, coming to terms with my illness and condition, in a society that is opposite to my SVG, where there is a social service (not church) on almost every block in new Havana, one feels and sees genuine concern for each other — love, warmth, embrace and appreciation. All of this makes one want to be his/her brother’s keeper, in a positive sense.

I know for a long time we as a people were developing some serious mental concerns. Yes, we become ill and it becomes a chronic problem, even taking lives.

Yet these ‘chokey’ cough-making people with their giddiness and ‘eye turn’, with their narrow selfish interests, scare us into not taking our own CCJ (Caribbean Court of Justice) but remaining holding tight to the PC (Privy Council). All of this while the ruling class in Britain is pushing us out regardless of our status and our contribution. We can never be a part or one of them. They will use us, disgrace us then discard us like nothing.

So, why don’t we, for one moment, shred this ‘inferiority complex’, and show dignity, self-respect, self-esteem by giving support to the CCJ? There is absolutely no cause for fear of the CCJ. My contribution will be in the domain of mass eradication of backwardness, ignorance and negativity, through enlightenment, so that we can become a more aware and conscious people, who can make informed choices in our discourse.

Even with my serious limitations, I am trying to put words of wisdom in the spinning vicious pot that kills time on earth. Time matters. Morals and civility have been eroded so badly, and intolerance has damaged the mindset so severely, that society has been sent into a frenzy, scaring people in the process.

That’s why clear-sightedness is in high demand, to clean up the mess. Check for it, because in the thrust forward, in order to survive, the human race needs some good mental tonic, e.g. true facts, honesty, fairness, justice, admission, compromise, love. This will allow us to make the transition and take ourselves out of darkness.

Open up! Embrace nature, all of it. That is the only way out. We the human ‘being race’, are part of nature. Where they dwell, the divine one reaches out.

Bro Kayan

concerned— NDP and ULP. The NDP will be in a better place if they promise the nation that they will legalize marijuana for recreational use, when or if they are placed in government.

Finally, if this marijuana industry kicks off on a good footing, it will re-energise our food basket, and see the return of the Marketing Board, an increase of cooperative, and make room for more teachers in schools, just as banana did.

But we have to be careful with the foreign and local sharks. God said, the herb is legal.

Newton George Christian Democrat

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10. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Leadership matters

WE COME BACK to the issue of leadership, and the important question of whether or not leadership matters, in a small resource limited country like St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Some persons within the opposition New Democratic Party don’t seem to understand the importance of this concept when they offer their leader, Godwin Friday, as a possible Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Nothing could be more idiotic, as we shall prove in the column.

We accept that as a country, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has to be managed and administrated. Some organisation has to take on the task of pulling together all the aspects that go into the administration mix, which will bring benefits for the people of this country. Vincentians have determined that the organisation that should be responsible for the administration of the country, is the Unity Labour Party.

They did so in 2001, 2005, 2010 and 2015. They did so based on the plans and strategies put forward by the ULP, along with the philosophy of the party, and the leadership identified to drive this administrative process. By electing the ULP administration for “four in a row”, the voters were saying that they did not agree with, or support the plans and programmes of the NDP, and further, they didn’t think that the leadership being put forward, in that case, Arnhim Eustace, had the qualities to take the country forward.

The Leadership of Ralph Gonsalves The concept of leadership is described loosely as the ability of an individual to motivate a group of people towards achieving a common goal. In this case, the group of people could be described as Vincentians, and the common goal is the socio-economic development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. And so leadership is an important function of the administration and management process of the state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ralph Everard Gonsalves has had a unique upbringing, which has prepared him in advance for his role as the leader of this country. He comes from the rural area of Colonarie, from the country folk with a strong emphasis on love and support and care for each other. He understands poverty and adversity, and the importance of strong family ties. In other words, he has a clear understanding of the fabric which keeps the Vincentian society together.

His leadership skills were further honed when he attended the Mona campus of the University of the West Indies, and the key role he played in the Walter Rodney Affair, as is documented in a number of places. He has had his leadership skills tested in the Movement for National Unity (MNU), and the early days of the merger with the Unity Labour Party.

He has lectured here and there both in the region and abroad, on matters related to economics and governance.

Finally, he is sought after by all and sundry when it comes to the choice of a guest speaker at auspicious events.

The other pretenders to the throne, Arnhim Eustace and Godwin Friday,

The Election Petitions: Adjournment of trial and recusal of Judge (Press Statement by Dr. Friday on the Election Petitions)

do not have the background characteristics of Ralph Gonsalves, when it comes to leadership. Eustace has been rejected by the voters of the country, as not having the prerequisites for leadership. Friday, who has taken his place, is a virtual unknown, trying to get his feet wet, and is totally unfamiliar with the workings of the Vincentian society.

Friday does not even know some of the villages in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and in some cases, has never visited these places.

Leadership Demonstrated It is the political leader who begins the process of economic development of a country. That process begins within the party itself, then transcends the political process to the national agenda. So, the political leader initiates the process which produces the ideas, strategies and programmes, provides the motivation, guidance and confidence, and then builds the working environment for the implementation of these plans.

The construction of the international airport at Argyle is a case in point. No former leader, not Joshua, not Cato, not Mitchell and certainly not Eustace, had an idea what they were about, when the idea of an international airport was discussed. It was Ralph Gonsalves who gave the issue clear thought, produced the outline and the approach, and provided the leadership to accomplish this task. At the beginning, the issue of finance was identified as being most critical for the project.

It took the genius of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves to design the concept of the “Coalition of the Willing”, a gathering of friendly countries committed to providing financial and technical assistance for the construction of the airport. But Dr. Gonsalves had already demonstrated his leadership skills, particularly in the design and rollout of the Education Revolution, and the construction of the bridge over the Rabacca river.

Conclusion In a few days, the rank and file of the Unity Labour Party will gather at the Campden Park Secondary School for the 23rd Convention of the Party.

The party leader, Ralph Gonsalves who had announced that it was time for a transition, is not likely to get his wish, as the rank and file has already indicated that they want the Comrade to remain as the political leader, and take the party into the next general elections.

This is a clear indication of the value that the ULP membership places on the leadership qualities of Comrade Ralph. Fortunately, many Vincentians are of that opinion, including some members of the opposition New Democratic Party.

WE RECALL that following the general elections of 9th December 2015, two of the candidates for the New Democratic Party, Mr. Benjamin Exeter and Mr. Lauron Baptiste, filed petitions challenging the election results in Central Leeward and North Windward constituencies, respectively.

The Respondents in the matters, (i.e. the relevant Returning Officer, Presiding Officer, the Supervisor of Elections, Sir Louis Straker, Mr. Montgomery Daniel and the Attorney General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines) filed applications in the Court to have the petitions struck out on the basis that they had not met the requirements of section 58(1)(b) and (c) of The Representation of the People Act and Rule 9 of the House of Assembly (Election Petition Rules) 2014, which set out the procedure and conditions for providing security for costs.

The application to strike out the petitions was heard before Justice Brian Cottle on the 4th March, 2016.

At that hearing, the Petitioners’ lawyers made a preliminary objection to the application on the basis that the Court lacked jurisdiction to hear it at that stage of the petitions’ proceedings. Despite the objections of the lawyers for our candidates, the Judge proceeded to hear the application to strike out the petitions.

In a written decision delivered on the 4th day of April, 2016, Justice Cottle ultimately agreed with the Petitioners and ruled that the petitions could not be struck at that stage of the proceedings but if the motion to strike were properly brought before him later, he would allow it and strike out the petitions. When the petitions came before Justice Cottle for hearing on the 16th June 2016, the motion to strike out the petitions was again brought by the Respondents. The motion was granted (as Justice Cottle had previously said would happen) and the petitions were struck out. Mr. Exeter and Mr. Baptiste appealed against that decision striking out their petitions. After much delay, and despite the efforts of the lawyers for Mr. Exeter and Mr. Baptiste to have the appeal heard earlier, the appeal was finally heard on March 7, 2017, in St. Lucia. Mr. Exeter and Mr. Baptiste won the appeal which paved the way for the hearing of the petitions.

The Court of Appeal ordered that the Petitions should be heard expeditiously. There were several adjournments to the case. A trial date of September 24-28, 2018 was set but was later vacated at the request of the Respondents. During a case management hearing on 12thJuly 2018, December 3rd was set aside for the commencement of the trial of the petitions.

Prior to hearing on December 3rd, Mr. Grahame Bollers, one of the lawyers for Respondents Louis Straker and Montgomery Daniel, filed

an application in the Court to have the December trial dates vacated on the grounds that he was ill and could snot attend trial, and his client did not wish to proceed without him. In the application, it was stated that Mr. Bollers had been becoming progressively unwell over the last three to four months and was experiencing symptoms not inconsistent with cardiovascular problems. The application was raised at a hearing on Tuesday, November 27th 2018, at which time, the Judge deferred it to December 3rd for full hearing. At the request of the lawyers for Respondents in the Petitions, the hearing date was moved up to Friday 30th November, 2018. At that hearing, the Petitioners Mr. Exeter and Mr. Baptiste were represented by Senator and Lawyer Kay Bacchus Baptiste. Despite her strenuous and well-argued objections and submissions on behalf of the Petitioners, Justice Henry granted the application and adjourned the trial, once more, to February 11, 2019. The judge also ordered Sir Louis Straker and Mr. Montgomery Daniel to seek a new lead counsel to replace Mr. Bollers.

I am very disappointed, and the entire NDP is very disappointed with the further delay of the trial of the petitions. It has been three years since the general elections were held and the petitions filed! Yet, the matter has not been resolved in Court. We deplore the fact that after three years, the people of this country still do not know whether the government was duly elected and is legitimate. How can this be? It is an unacceptable state of affairs in a modern democratic society. The petitions could have been decided a long time ago if the parties on the other side (i.e. the Respondent in the Petitions) had shown any interest in having them decided by the Court once and for all.

Instead, they have sought to delay and drag the cases out as long as possible. Why? What do they have to hide? Why put up such a desperate fight to prevent the petitions from being tried before the Judge if they have nothing to hide? The people have a right to ask these questions. And I hope that even those people who may have voted for the government ask those questions as well.

But this is not the only concerning matter about the saga of the petitions.

There is an even more recent development. On Tuesday, 4th December, 2018, our lawyers and other lawyers were summoned to Court. At that time, Justice Henry related certain developments that she explained led her to decide to remove herself from the case. This is a major development that holds serious implications for the progress of the cases.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 11.

Views

Rewriting the Mental Narrative

“A can-do attitude can help you in work, school, and social situations. If you look at situations in a positive light, you can open yourself up to new opportunities and challenges.

Develop a sense of motivation by looking at every situation with a sense of enthusiasm. Keep your thoughts positive by using positive language and challenging negativity.

Work on tweaking your lifestyle habits. Daily practices like meditation can help keep you grounded, granting you the energy to have a can-do attitude.” Paul Chernyak, Licensed Professional Counselor WE ARE OFTEN conscious of the times when something that we hear appears to move us in the direction of taking a particular action. Sometimes the influence can occur from something we read, listen to, or view. What we listen to and what we view (e.g. on television, via the Internet, or from a movie) can influence our thought patters. The influence can be positive. However, it can also be negative. When the latter occurs, it is so very important that we move in the direction of rewriting the mental narrative. We have to be guardians of our thoughts. We need to be aware of the fact that these thoughts direct our actions. And, if we are not careful or vigilant, could lead us down a pathway to hurt and disappointment.

Some may also venture to include that we can be led down a path to destruction. That is also possible.

It is often quite frightening when we consider the thought patterns that may be generated by those persons who use the public transportation that is available in many of our small islands. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, for example, so many of the minivans play loud and vulgar music. While we do not have empirical evidence (i.e. the research data) to confirm the negative impact of such “entertainment”, this writer has good reason to believe that the influence is considered extremely negative. Having recently used public transportation and being exposed to the negative lyrics that bombarded me for that particular 10-minute ride, I was conscious of my need to rewrite my mental narrative. In this case, I engaged in the singing and humming of a hymn. It worked. It rebooted my consciousness to be more positive and uplifting. It was important for me to do so in an effort to avoid the lingering thoughts and the “negative vibes” that seem to naturally emerge when exposed to such songs.

The experience referred to in the preceding paragraph also resulted in my wondering how our school children (especially our teenagers) cope when exposed to such situations. It must be a terrible experience to listen to such lyrics when travelling to or from school. Many of these songs subconsciously encourage listeners to sink to the depths of despair and/or to consider behaviours that are socially unacceptable. Some of these songs degrade females and must subconsciously impact the way our young girls see themselves and the disrespect that some members of our male population generate and maintain as a result of having been temporarily brainwashed when exposed to such lyrics. Hopefully, these innocent and unsuspecting young persons are interacting with

positive role models in their schools and homes, who assist them in rewriting their mental narrative.

We are forever grateful to those responsible adults who consciously seek to aid our young people in focusing more intently on positive outlooks and outcomes. These individuals seek to intercept the thought patterns of our youth (and older persons too) by providing words of encouragement. They create mental narratives that seek to lift listeners to new heights of accomplishment. They continue to play a major role in keeping hope alive. We are forever grateful for the effort and energy that they exude, in an effort to encourage and inspire positive behaviours. They pause to take the time to encourage a failing child to improve his or her performance. They engage in conversations and actions that remind the pre-delinquent child that a better path should be taken. They note the value of common courtesies. In all of these scenarios, they remind the listener or observer that it is possible to engage in more positive behaviours.

They understand and appreciate that, in so many of these situations, they have the capacity/ability to perform the more desirable task; to listen to a different drum. To walk a higher moral and ethical pathway. They can develop and maintain a can-do attitude. That shift in the mental narrative is possible. They are not beyond hope.

Too many of our people (especially our children) are tempted to opt out of being the best that they can be by telling themselves that they cannot perform a particular task or accomplish a great feat. Too many of them have the capacity/potential to be much better than they are. This is true in relation to their school assignments, punctuality, regularity, athletic performance, and so on. They need to be “re-programmed”.

However, it is probably true to say that these descriptions are also applicable to many employees in our various workplaces. Too many of our citizens are lulled into accepting mediocrity. Too many settle for average performance. Too many are lulled into complacency. We need to make a more concerted effort to rewrite our mental narratives — to accept the challenge to better our best efforts.

As we near the end of one calendar year and get ready to embrace the New Year, this is as good a time as any for us to consider what aspects of our lives require improvement. This is an opportune moment for us to consider how best to rewrite our mental narrative and, in so doing, how to focus on helping those around us to do likewise. With our commitment and enthusiasm, we will continue to focus on making our corner of the world a better place to be.

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

Making peace with yourself ‘We have replaced craft with efficiency, distinctiveness with standardisation, aspiration with ambition, rootedness with guile, contentment with progress, attentiveness with speed, and the natural rhythms of life with tight schedules. This race to the bottom manifests in the everyday – how we eat, almost impossible.

On a personal level, I realised I was build our homes, even in our friendship capable of more than I ever imagined. I and erotic lives. Nothing is sacred in say this not out of pride, but on the society's insatiable need for speed.’ basis that if I — a man who had been WITH LITTLE IDEA of what I was to expect, much more comfortable with a spreadsheet than a spade — could live or how I was to go about it, seven years from my locality, then almost anybody ago I began living without money. could. I quickly learned how to farm and Originally intended as a one-year to forage, and how to make things from experiment in ecological living, I wanted to explore how it felt as a human being to what I found naturally around me. In essence, I discovered how to take care of live without the trappings and security myself and others in ways that didn’t that money had long-since afforded me. inflict systemic violence on people and While terrifying and tough to begin with, creatures whom I had no idea I was by the end of the first year, I somehow having such a brutal impact on through found myself more content, healthier and my shopping habits. at peace than I had ever been. And My greatest lesson, however, was although three years later I made a difficult decision to re-enter the monetary that in all of the time I was out there doing my little thing, species after world – to establish projects that would majestic species were being made enable others to loosen the grip that extinct faster than ever; forests, oceans money has on their lives – I took from it and rivers were being depleted at many lessons that have changed my life untenable rates; and social injustice was forever. rising exponentially, putting more and For the first time I experienced how connected and interdependent I was on more money into the hands of those least likely to use it for the common the people and natural world around good. This I could no longer ignore. me, something I had previously only While trying to “be the change you want intellectualised. It is not until you to see in the world” is something we become physically aware of how your might all be wise to try, we cannot sit own health is entirely reliant on the back and watch industrial civilisation health of the great web of life, that drive the great web of life — ourselves ideas such as deep ecology absorb included — over the cliff edge. themselves into your arteries, sinews Democracy is meant to hold power to and bones.

If the air that filled my lungs became account, but in a world of spin doctors, polluted, if the nutrients in the soil that time poverty and politico-economic produced my food became depleted, or if illiteracy, democracies are failing to do the spring water which made up 60% of so. When this happens, activism has to step in. my body became poisoned, my own Drinking Molotov Cocktails with health would suffer accordingly. This Gandhi by Mark Boyle Photograph: seems like common sense, but you wouldn’t think so by observing the way Permanent Publications Yet our activism today has become as we treat the natural world today. Over tame and timid as our neatly-trimmed time, even the boundaries of what I considered to be “I” became less and less gardens. The worlds of political, social and ecological campaigning can no clear.

What I took from this was that if we longer continue with activism-as-usual.

It is simply not working. None of this is want to secure the long-term health of ourselves and future generations of life, a criticism of the determined people who participate in these movements for we need to start defending these change, and I am not suggesting that ecological systems with the same there are no success stories. But if you fierceness and determination as we step back and honestly look at the state would an attack on our own body, an idea I explore in my new book, Drinking of our ecological and social landscapes, all the indicators of health are on a Molotov Cocktails with Gandhi. While we may be able to detach ourselves from steep decline. To have some chance of returning these landscapes to vitality, the spiralling instances of ecocide that our political landscape needs rewilding. we are now used to hearing about on a It is a terrifying, yet exciting, time to regular basis — after all, it tends to be be alive. We can turn the biggest crises distant and sometimes abstract things of our age into something that gives our that are under threat, and nothing so concrete as our own bodily sovereignty — lives a renewed sense of meaning and purpose. But to do so, I believe we have these attacks are, in the long run, no to upgrade the three r’s of the climate less serious.

More than anything else, I discovered change generation from “reduce, reuse, recycle” to something more befitting of that my security no longer lay in my bank account, but in the strength of my the crises unfolding before us: “resist, revolt, rewild”. relationships with the people, plants Now is the time to be bold. We need and animals around me. My character to stop the onslaught of the machine replaced sterling as my currency. If I acted selfishly or without care for those into the natural world, using every means that is effective, or before we around me, then in the medium-term know it, we will have witnessed the my ability to meet my own economic devastation and loss of all the beauty needs would diminish. My moneyless that still remains. If we allow that to economy was one in which helpfulness, happen, we shall deserve our fate. generosity and solidarity were rewarded. Contrast that to the worlds of Instead, if we fight back, then we may high finance and big business, in which earn ourselves a future that, at this a healthy dose of psychopathy will often dark hour before the dawn, we cannot even imagine yet. help in making it to the top, and • Mark Boyle’s book, Drinking selfishness and ruthlessness are the qualities du jour. When we have plenty Molotov Cocktails with Gandhi, is out now. He is asking readers to boycott of money, we can spend our days Amazon and to buy it direct from his exploiting the world around us for our publishers. own profit, and the checkout guy will still sell us our weekly groceries, the Send comments, criticisms & airline still fly us to the Costa del Sol. suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com Without money, act badly enough for long enough, and life would become

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

SVG childrenÊs education is under-funded ACCORDING to THE VINCENTIAN newspaper dated 30 November 2018, at Lowmans Leeward Anglican School, which has about 400 students, all the toilets that the students use have not been able to flush since Monday 26 November 2018.

The SVG Teachers Union advised teachers at that school to withdraw their services with immediate effect due to the deplorable conditions.

It is truly shocking that both the teachers and students have to operate in such dangerous conditions. There is real threat to everyone’s health at the school, having sewerage trucks and non-flushing toilets. The ULP government is really disrespecting the teachers and children with such poorly maintained schools.

To get the best out of their future, children in SVG should be given a world-class education from pre-school to university. However, by not investing much money at all in to education in SVG, the ULP regime is seriously limiting the job prospects and earning capacity of Vincentian children when they leave school. They will have fewer opportunities if they leave school with fewer qualifications.

The ULP regime has placed a low priority on providing Vincentian children with high-quality education.

The ULP regime’s projected Capital Expenditure on education for 2020 is peanuts — only EC$4.7 million (Source - Budget Estimates 2018). This is nowhere near enough, given that many schools in SVG are dilapidated.

It is very greedy and heartless that the super-rich migrants in Mustique and Canouan and Taiwan happily watch Vincentian children’s education suffer, and still continue to not pay (their fair share of) tax and customs duty. These people truly have no soul and do not care. As long as they can make millions in profit and live an extravagant, wealthy lifestyle, then they are happy. Absolutely no care whatsoever about the plight of Vincentian children.

SVG must follow the path of richer countries if we are to become a rich country ourselves. We must put a high priority on educating our children and value education.

New Zealand is at the very top of the scale; 21.6 percent of the country’s total public expenditure is devoted to education. Mexico isn’t far behind with

20.5 percent. The story is similar in Brazil where a significant proportion of public finances, 19.2 percent, gets spent on the education system. In SVG, it is only 1.28 per cent.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, strongly believes that Vincentian children’s education gets a kick in the face from the short-sighted and grossly incompetent ULP regime.

There is heavy investment in education in Singapore. The rate of return on investment in education in

Singapore is very high, in that, businesses worldwide invest billions of dollars in to Singapore.

Unemployment is very low there too.

It is scandalous that schools in SVG are so poorly maintained, so much so, that children have to be sent home and miss schooling in order for the schools to be fixed. We must invest in education and provide our children with high-quality schools that are not a risk to their health.

SVG Green Party

Remembering Kingman

The herb is the healing of the nation Legalise or decriminalize the sacred herb now YOUNG members within the Rastafari community just want to add INI voices to the ganja debate.

INI can see clearly that the government is not looking out for the interest of the whole nation, but only for a few high-class citizens. Rasta say that the benefit of the herb is good for all not only for a certain class.

The young Rasses in the land beckons the government to take a holistic approach to the sacred herb.

You cannot see the herb as good and Kingman, Rasta Haile Selassie i. still evil. You cannot see only the extraordinaire material side of the sacred herb and The young Rasses refuse to acknowledge the spiritual, say free the herb, free the herb for cultural nature of the sacred herb. medicinal purpose and heal the nation That is being very hypocritical and and the world from their many health unforgiving. problems. Free the herb for the Herb In that light, the young Rasses request that of the government that it Industry where we will use every part of the herb tree, from the root to the takes a few things into consideration before passing the ‘Ganja Bill’. seed, the stalk, etc., to create more First of all, the government needs jobs that will help to improve the to take a genuine approach towards social/economic standard of living of the sacred herb. The first (right) step the people of the nation. INI implores the government should make is to the government not only to see the issue an apology to the Rastafari material but to recognize the spiritual community for all the injustices, and cultural aspect as well. Free up persecution, etc. meted out to Rastas the herb for all who choose to take over the years, by your government part in the spiritual, cultural and and former (governments) because of recreational use of the sacred herb. the sacred herb.

Finally, INI will not be restricted to INI request that the government burn herb only in the church, free up all ganja prisoners. INI Tabernacle Rastafari is not a religion. demand reparation for all ganja Rastafari is an African Spiritualprisoners and Rastas who have been Cultural expression. It is a way of life, wronged and unjustly persecuted for part of INI day to day life. INI Rasta the sacred herb. INI demand legalization or decriminalized; it is the just want to burn the herb in peace, that’s why INI request ye asking the most just and fair way to dwell with the sacred herb… In a holistic manner government to free the herb in a total and this Aquarian age of information. sense, so that the nation can live in INI must use this time and moment in peace and harmony, while the herb our history to write the historical heals the nation in a holistic way. wrongs by trampling down the old colonial Christian slave masters — By strength, unjust laws - now and forever.

I TafarI

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07 , 2018. 13.

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Scotiabank: Business as usual MANAGING DIRECTOR Caribbean East Scotiabank, David Parks has given Vincentian customers the assurance that all is well with the financial institution, even though a decision is yet to be

finalised about the bank’s future. The outcome of a deal will be known today Friday December 7 when Finance Ministers of the Eastern Caribbean Bank meet.

According to Finance Minister here Camillo Gonsalves, a teleconference involving Finance Ministers of Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States who are members of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is expected to provide answers on matters as they affect Scotiabank’s announcement of its intention to vacate nine Caribbean markets.

Scotiabank has 35 employees here.

The Finance

Minister of Finance Ministry has Camillo Gonsalves requested encouraged citizens not information about to be to be unduly the workers, but unsettled by changes in Gonsalves the banking sector. considered it discourteous that to changes in the banking the sale was arranged without prior sector,” a point borne out by the ECCB knowledge of any local bodies. on the new development. They pointed Gonsalves is concerned about the out that “changes in ownership and effect on customers here and the banking sector. He acknowledged that banks are not uncommon and that the there is need in the banking circles for proposed transaction is the latest in a “consolidation and amalgamation.” But series of consolidation moves by he is worried that Scotiabank “should Canadian banks.”

Scotia bank has been operating in undertake this sort of activity without the Caribbean for 120 years, with its any consultation.”

The banking sector with the ECCU first branch in Jamaica.

They began doing business here has been skilfully regulated, and 1977.

There are 35 employees and Gonsalves noted stability over the three Automated Teller Machines. years. He agreed that Eastern The ECCB announced that it Caribbean has more banks than received an application from Republic capital and that a merger “does not Financial Holdings Limited November weaken the sector.”

27, “seeking regulatory approval to He pondered whether this move is acquire the Bank of Nova Scotia’s the “tip of the iceberg.” operations and business in the Eastern The Finance Minister warned Caribbean Currency Union.” citizens to become “more accustomed (See story on page 5) (WKA)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 15.

14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Six Highlights SVGCA Inc. Awards Keswick Williams - International Cricketer of the Year Left: Obed McCoy Regional Male Cricketer of the Year

rounder with 321 runs and 22 wickets; Victors One – Champion Team Award.

In the mMale First Division, Rickford Walker of Police was rewarded for having scored the Most Runs, 314; his teammate Romario Bibby for the Most Wickets, 17. Dillon Douglas of French Verandah CC as the Best Allrounder, 286 runs and 13 wickets; and Team Rivals as Champions.

United Survivors and J.G Tigress shared honours as joint

Cosmond Walters – Male Cricketer of the Year Right: Cordel Jack – Female Cricketer of the Year SIX OF THIS COUNTRY’S leading cricketers captured the limelight when the SVG Cricket Association

Juliana Nero - Regional Female Cricketer of the Year

Inc. (SVGCA) held their 2018 Annual Awards and Gala Dinner last Saturday, December 04, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

The distinguished five were: Cosmond Walters who took the Lance John Award as the Male Cricketer of the Year; Cordel Jack – the Phernal Charles Award for Female Cricketer of the Year; Rayon Williams - Paddy Thomas Youth Cricketer of the Year; Juliana Nero - the Cinda Bobb Regional Female Cricketer of the Year Award; Obed McCoy – the Mike Findlay Regional Male Cricketer of the Year Award; Keswick Williams - the Winston Davis International Cricketer of the Year Award.

The SVGCA Inc. also recognized Clarence ‘Paddy’ Thomas and Michael Findlay for their sterling contributions to the development of cricket in SVG. Thomas’s contribution has been in the area of Youth Cricket

– initiating Zonal and Age Division National Competitions, serving as Manager, National Selector and as a member of the SVGCA. Findlay’s contribution has been far and wide, beginning with his exploits as a cricketer who rose to represent the West Indies as a wicket-keeper/batsman. Off the field, Findlay served regional cricket as a West Indies selector and West Indies Team Manager, and local cricket as an executive member of the SVGCA. Recognition was also made of outstanding performances during the local cricket season.

In the male NLA Premier Division, honours were bestowed as follows: Atticus Browne of Victors One - Top Run-getter with 335; his teammate Alston Bobb - Top Wicket-taker, 24; Cosmond Walters of Team Rivals - Best AllRayon Williams – Youth Cricketer of the Year

winners of the Women 40 Overs Competition. In the individual awards, Cordel Jack of United Survivors scored Most Runs, 247 runs, and with her 11 wickets was named Best All-rounder.

Alliosn Antoine of United Survivors took the Most Wickets 13.

This year’s Awards Ceremony was held under the theme: ‘Cricket – The Social and Economic Impact on our Region’.

Stories by I.B.B. ALLEN

SVGCA’s Shallow

pleased with progress DR KISHORE SHALLOW President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association Inc. (SVGCA) believes that the Association he leads has done well over the last five years, in the face of several challenges.

Shallow shared this sentiment when he addressed the SVGCA 2018 Annual Awards Gala Dinner held last Saturday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

“In a time when the business landscape is quite unpredictable and the financial climate is still daunting, I am proud to say the SVGCA has been in a stable financial position through prudent financial management, and as a result most programmes were possible over the last 12 months,” Shallow told his audience.

Those programmes included the: Premier and First Division National Competitions; Neil Williams 20/20; Female Super40; Junior Under-15 Secondary Schools Tournament; National Club Championships 50 Overs.

Reference was also made to the Lennox John National Cricket Academy graduating 15 players, and to the Association’s intention to expand to accommodate 60 players, with the hub at the Arnos Vale playing field.

The President also reminded the gathering that the SVG

Female Team won the first ever Windward Islands Female Competition, and that the SVGCA hosted the CWI Under-19 T for which a live online scoring facility was provided.

“We are the only country that currently provides live scoring for regional tournaments that It was a confident, buoyant, optimistic are not funded President Dr Kishore Shallow who addressed directly by the CWI. last Saturday’s Award Ceremony and Dinner In addition, we were of the SVGCA. able to stream the games live via Internet,” Shallow said, with an tion. Additionally, we are in the obvious degree of pride. final stage of setting up a company called Vincy Sports.

He also highlighted that over This will be a commercial arm of the last 12 months, there have SVGCA Inc. where we will been four Vincentians called up explore various profit earning to West Indies service - Keswick ventures…. the launching of an Williams, Obed McCoy, Jomel online cricket shop. Also, we Warrican and Sunil Ambris. will look at our own indoor But the SVGCA is not sitting facility as well as erecting on its laurels. “...Work is several batting cages around the ongoing; we have just completed country.” our draft of the new strategic The President is confident plan for 2019 – 2024 which will that the SVGCA will continue to be finalised in two weeks’ time,” lend support at the regional Shallow said. level, and believes SVG has a He continued, “The idea is to part to play in building a stronpioneer and lead in an area of ger Windward Islands commitsports with the watchwords tee and by extension a West being, team work, transparency, Indies committee. integrity, excellence and innova-

Skerritt urges SVGCA to ‘Think Big’ RICHARD ‘RICKY’ SKERRITT, West Indies team Manager, 2000 to 2004, and a former Minister of Sports in St Kitts, delivered the Keynote Address at the SVGCA Annual Awards Gala Dinner, held last Saturday.

Skerritt reflected on the years when the Leeward Islands and Windward Islands played as a combined unit, which ended in 1975, and proffered, “Perhaps next year 2019, we can use it as a good reason for the OECS, Cricket stakeholders to come together to reflect on the experiences and the learnings of Windwards and Leeward cricket over the past 45 years. Perhaps we can use the occasion to identify the threats and opportunities that lie ahead for the growth and development of cricket in the OECS as a sport and as a business.”

In this light, Skerritt urged President of the SVGCA Kishorne Shallow to consider developing the idea of bringing stakeholders together, and consider inviting the government and the OECS Secretariat as partners in making the proposed gathering a reality.

Turning to SVG upping its game, Sherrit declared, “It is up to leaders like Kishorne Shallow and his team that the next investment wave that hit SVG will include some impactful cricket-related entertainment but you need to get into the conversation early,….. at the highest level of government… ,” and referred to T20 CPL Franchise as an area for exploration since, as he assessed, “the economic returns from past tournament suggest that the return on investments for a host

country can be quite good.”

He continued, “My message is that, … for SVG to claim a bigger market share in the global business of cricket, we must prepare to do whatever it takes so we don’t get left behind.. .”

The former cricket administrator and team manager cited, “ the impact of regional cricket is significant for national economies… and in order to optimize and grow these economic benefits, it’s clear to me that local cricket boards, CWI, Caribbean Richard ‘Ricky’ Skerritt delivering the Governments and all Keynote Address at the SVGCA 2018 stakeholders need to work Awards Ceremony. as partners.”

That said, he considered now as the time for SVG to step to be leaders in Windward up to the next level in its quest Islands and West Indies cricket.

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16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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Christmas activities/ Nine Mornings launched

year round planning activities so as to ensure that Christmas in SVG is celebrated in true Vincentian style.

“I want to say that it is the communities which make this thing happen; we are mainly the facilitators,” he said. He encouraged the audience to visit communities that are staging activities during the official period of Nine Mornings.

Bowman also took time out to introduce a commemorative magazine, ‘It’s Nine Minister Cecil Mc Kie Mornings’ which, he said, alluded to Nine attempts to capture the Mornings being an history of Nine Mornings. integral part of the After leading the activities that will make December 2018 a ‘wow’ countdown to the turning on of the lights, Minister one.

Mc Kie, in his address, NINE MORNINGS alluded to Christmas ACTIVITIES, which run 2018 as being a “wow” officially from December experience.

16 – 24, were launched at December, the Heritage Square, Sunday Minister projected, is 2nd December. The launch expected to see an coincided with the official increase in visitor turning on of the lights at arrivals with, among Heritage Square. other developments, A candlelight march American Airlines through the streets of making its inaugural Kingstown and featuring flight into the Argyle community groups, International Airport church groups and the (AIA) on December 15th.

RSVG Police Force Band, He promised that in culminated at the Square 2019 the Committee will where, as part of the begin the process to have formal ceremony, the festival recognised as addresses were delivered a “world festival”.

by Lennox Bowman, The ‘speechifying’ out Deputy Chairman of the of the way, the stage Nine Mornings became the domain of Committee, and Cecil Mc community groups who Kie, Minister of Tourism, were involved in a Sports and Culture. competition of sorts.

According to Bowman, Performing artistes the Committee works like Cleopatra, The

The lights at Heritage Square aim to create a sense of ‘music in the air’.

Bowmans, Carlton ‘CP’ Hall also took to the stage to ensure a ‘true Vincy style’ atmosphere.

Just a section of those who participated in the pre-launch parade.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07 , 2018. 17.

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Police to improve response time Vincentian Tony Browne, Retired Officer Staff Sergeant of the York Regional Police, Canada.

Inspector Junior Simmons, who chaired the handing over ceremony held on November 30 at the Central Police Station, described the occasion as two Christmases in one. He said that the Force was very happy for the partnership in helping to fight crime.

Minister of National Mobilization Frederick Stephenson recognized Retired Officer Staff Sergeant Tony Browne’s work in making the donation of the cars possible through this country’s Commissioner to Canada Fitz Huggins. “We are very happy as a government and people, that the RSVGPF is now in a better position to fight crimes,” said the Minister.

Stephenson also expressed thanks to the Scotts.

President of Rotary Club SVG Rueben John, speaking in relation to the SUV, said that Rotary Club SVG worked in conjunction with the Scott family to make the donation a reality.

Vernon Scott had Acting Prime Minister Montgomery Daniel (2nd from initially identified right) accepts keys to the SVU from Vernon Scott, in the company of Reuben John (right), Stephanie Browne the need to the Rotary Club, and he (right) and CoP Colin John (back).

THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES POLICE FORCE (RSVGPF) is expected to improve its response time to request for assistance from the public and reports of criminal activities.

This follows the RSVGPF’s receipt of a donation of a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and two fully refurbished police cars. Six radios and nineteen laptop computers were also handed over to the police.

The SUV, donated by Vernon Scott and his wife Stephanie Scott in partnership with Rotary Club SVG, will be assigned to the Layou Police Station.

The donation of the patrol cars and the other items was made possible through the instrumentality of

St. Vincent and the Grenadines has stepped up its campaign in its bid to become a non-permanent member of the Security Conucil of the UN.

More support for SVG IF ALL GOES according to plan, this country can count on the support of the Group of Latin American and the Caribbean (GRUILAC) in its bid for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council of the UN, for the 2020/2021 term.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, speaking on the Shake-Up programme on WE FM last Friday, Nov. 30, said that the support from GRULAC will go a long way towards pushing this country nearer to the 2/3 of the votes in the 2019 General

Assembly that will ensure a win.

As it stands, SVG has already been assured of the endorsement of CARICOM. Should this country’s bid be successful, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will become the smallest country to sit on the Security Council.

It will not be the first CARICOM country to do so; Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Guyana would have done so some twenty or more years ago.

and his wife set about procuring the vehicle.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Frankie Joseph recognized the particular nature of the donation, and recalled that he had, on a previous occasion, challenged Deputy Chief of York Regional Police Robert Rousse the car dealers here (right) hands over keys to the patrol cars to CoP Colin to “assist the police in John, in the company of Retired Officer Staff Sergeant terms of vehicles of the York Regional Police Tony Browne (left) and because the Minister Frederick Stephenson. government alone cannot really do it.”

Deputy Chief of York Regional Police Robert Rousse, who described Browne as a person who was very much involved in community work in Canada, said that the York Police were happy to assist and partner with the RSVGPF. “I truly believe that keeping our communities safe is one of the main missions of any police service, no matter where they are The SUV and patrol cars which the located in the world, and policing RSVGPF accepted as donations last Friday. though excellence, is something drivers. John also promised that the that we all strive to do. and we are laptops would be used at the different very pleased to make, however small a police stations and departments within contribution we can, to assist the the police force.

RSVGPF,” Rousse said.

Acting Prime Minister Montgomery Commissioner of Police Colin John Daniel said the government was said that measures have been put in concerned about crime in SVG, and place to ensure the upkeep of the that they are happy that the donors vehicles, including quarterly would have seen the need to assist the inspections by the Deputy police force in their crime fighting Commissioner of Police, along with ad duties. (KH) hoc inspections. And monitoring of

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18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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Bishop’s College: Drama Champions 2018 The Kingstown Bishop’s College (BCK) are 2018 Champions of Secondary Schools’ Drama here in SVG. The co-ed institution displaced six other contenders to claim the coveted title.

Not only did their presentation ‘My brother

and I’, written by Ron Jackson, earn them the Championship title, but it was adjudged Best Original Play, won leading accolades for Best Make-up and Best Stage Management, and provided the Best Director.

And to top it off,

BCK’s Tameisha Williams and Ashely Dennie took the Supporting Actress and Best Actress Awards respectively.

Second place went to the Intermediate High School with their play ‘Don’t blame the devil’.

The school also took the

awards for Best Costume, Best Set Design, and rolled out the Best Actor in the person of Brandon Collins.

Third position went to the J. P. Eustace Secondary School with Lesron Stuart, taking the Best

Supporting Actor award for the school.

Meantime, Drama Development Officer, Martin Quashie is encouraging more secondary schools to participate in the drama festival, since there are many benefits to be derived from their participation.

The judges for this year’s festival were: Ronnie Marks - actor, writer and Barrister at law; Angus Martin actor, dancer and

The cast of ‘My brother and I’, presented by the Bishop’s College Kingstown. insurance underwriter; and Dwayne Daniel (chief judge) - writer, director, poet and Barrister at law.

In his summary, Daniel urged schools to make use of the opportunities to be had from theatre arts.

The Ministry of Culture has scheduled a play writing workshop for January 2019.

Canouan gets SVGTCCU branch RESIDENTS of Jimmy Forde, Canouan now Chairman of the have expanded if Board of not first-time Directors of the service of a SVGTCCU, school supplies referenced the outlet and asset base of bookstore, online the Credit Union and ATM as solid support facilities, and for the Branch. access to loans and various saving options.

All of this comes, courtesy a branch of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Co-operative Credit Union Ltd (SVGTCCU) which was opened last month, November.

Prior to this, the Credit Union employed the service of an agent to transact business on its behalf in that Grenadine island.

Jimmy Forde, Chairman of the Board of Directors, recognized the opening of the Canouan branch as one of the milestones in the Credit Union’s 40th Anniversary year, 2018.

He encouraged residents of Canouan to make use of the services the branch offers which, he said, is backed by a Credit Union with not only a 40-year history, but the strength of assets totalingn EC$128 million and a membership of more than 12,000.

Chief Executive Officer, Jasmine Huggins-Daly acknowledged that the branch has been “in the making for some time”, and that formative work dated back to the tenure of former CEO Julian Jack.

Montie Chambers, representing St. Vincent and the Grenadines Co-operative League Ltd at the opening ceremony, congratulated the SVGTCCU on the opening of the branch, and pledged the League’s support to ensure growth and development of the operations.

The opening ceremony also featured a choral speech by the children of the Canouan Government School. Their presentation focused on the Supplies Outlet and Bookshop on the island, and how they will no longer have to travel to the mainland to purchase books and other school supplies.

Ms. Bertina Sandy, a longstanding member of the SVGTCCU and former Head Teacher of the Canouan Government School, cut the ribbon to declare the office open.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Put your education first Dear George,

I AM A STUDENT at UWI, and almost immediately after settling in, I met this gorgeous guy. He is not a student but was just visiting that day. We got to talking and ended up dating seriously. He shocked me one day with a proposal that has me still dumbfounded. He is the owner of several businesses and wants me to forget about my studies and immediately join him in running his businesses. He also promised to marry me one year after I make the move to join him.

This could be my golden opportunity to be set for life; but some of my friends are telling me to take my time because I don’t know him as well as I think I do. Frankly speaking, I think they’re just envious of me. Why let such a once in a lifetime opportunity pass by? Please tell me I’m right.

Lucky girl Dear Lucky girl,

as the digging begins, things take on a different complexion. If this man loves and values you as much as he says, then he should not have a problem that includes you completing your studies.

Save yourself the unforeseen pain of living in the shadow of a man who has realized his dreams and who may see you, when it’s convenient, as a University drop out. Do not gamble with your education and your dreams.

Finish your studies! If he can wait for one year to marry you, he can wait for you to finish.

Retain some ‘elements’ of control of your own life. Your guy should be complementing whatever you bring to the table, and you do not want to show up at the table empty-handed, which is why you need to focus and make your education top priority.

Everything you’ve said seems glossy George and golden at face value, but as soon

Have her report the matter Dear George MY FRIEND has confided in me that there is this adult man who has been showering her with gifts, for her to sleep with him in return. She said she has not allowed him to touch her so far, but she is really considering doing so, after the promise of an iPhone. He promised to get her this latest iPhone for Christmas if she “gives it up.” She also told me two of her friends already got iPhones from the same man.

George, my friend is 13 years old, and this man is in a married man in his forties. My friend told me her other friends are also her age. She wants me to advise her. I told her not to do anything until I get back to her.

Concerned friend.

Dear Concerned friend It is a good thing that your friend has you in whom to confide. Please advise her to report what is happening to her parents or another responsible adult. Go with her for moral support if she has no objection.

In the meantime, let her know that what’s being done to her is wrong, and that man ought to be punished. As a friend, see to it that she not only reports this matter, but gets some counselling from The Marion House.

George

Take them to court!

Dear George

Dear Desperate, I HAVE FIVE children for five different men, and none of these men are supporting any of their children.

Three of them are married and have their own families, and it is because I do not wish to cause conflict why I haven’t gone to the family court. The other two men are in prison, which is why they cannot support the other two children.

George, things are hard with us and I’m desperate. I am not working and I have no one to turn to. It is hard to watch one family eating while the other one is starving.

A father is dutybound, according to the law, to make provisions for his children. Your responsibility is to see to it that the fathers of your children fulfil their duty.

The Family Court is available to you. Commonsense dictates that you make full use of the Court’s services and let those married fathers deal with whatever repercussions your action will have on their families.

I also see the need for you to get supportive counseling to help you find solutions to the problems at hand.

Desperate

George

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Too much talk will lead to disputes. You can make it up to them later. Stick to doing things that will make you a better person both physically and mentally. If you can put some work into home improvements, you should.

Taurus (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Look into real estate. A series of misunderstandings may be at fault.

Sudden changes regarding friendships are likely to occur if you have tried to change others. If your lover tries to curtail your freedom, it may lead to conflict.

Gemini (May 22‐June 21) Be careful to avoid wrong doings. Your energy will be high; however, if not channeled suitably, temper tantrums may erupt. Get busy on projects that improve your own image; you'll have the discipline to succeed.

Cancer (June 22‐July 22) You need some help this week. You can expect changes in your living arrangements. Look into projects that you feel would con tribute something to your appearance. Make plans to mix business with pleasure.

Leo (July 23‐Aug 22) Satisfy your passionate mood. Verbal abuse may lead to walkouts; don't make any rash statements you may regret later.

Don't beat around the bush; state your case in plain and simple terms. You could make extra cash through creative hobbies.

Virgo (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You have to let go of your past if you wish to get out of any sentimental mood that might be hanging over your head.

Your love will not be willing to listen to your criticism. Organize your day well if you wish to accomplish all you set out to do. You need to keep the peace and you

will have to bend in order to do so.

Libra (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) You will have no problem getting along with clients. Move into a leadership position if you are determined to do so.

Leave things as they are for the moment and focus on reaching your highest potential at work.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You must try to lay your cards on the table. Talk to your mate and tell them how you feel. Put your efforts into physical fitness programs or competitive sports. You can learn a great deal if you listen to those who are older or more experienced.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Recognition can be yours if you present your ideas and stand behind your beliefs.

Uncertainty about your relationship is prevalent. You will probably have to defend your mate. Your social activity should be conducive to finding love.

Capricorn (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Hard work will bring rewards. You can put in some overtime and make extra cash.

You can expect opposition at work. Don't let your competition be privy to information that could be in criminating.

Travel for business will be advantageous.

Aquarius (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) You can make changes that will enhance your appearance. A new you could help your attitude. Travel will be favorable.

Take care of yourself or you can expect to suffer from minor illness.

Pisces (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Your own small business on the side could ease your financial stress. Your efforts will be rewarded handsomely.

Chances are you split up the last time because you didn't really want to make a commitment. Take care of your own responsibilities before you help others.

ACROSS 4. Cushion 8. Small guitars 11. Relaxation 13. Knock vigorously 14. One another 15. Supplements 17. Body of water 18. Suspended 19. Having ears 21. Valued mineral 22. False god 24. Impair 27. Person who lies 29. To yield 31. Tear 33. Strike breaker 35. Cabbagelike plant 36. Secondhand 38. Prickly 40. Mother of Isaac 42. Wallaroo 43. Kilocalorie 45. Irritable 49. Tint 50. Fish eggs 51. Act of creating 52. Lively dance DOWN 1. Large soup dish 2. Majestic 3. Perceive with the eyes 4. Hickory‐nut 5. Wan 6. Book of the Bible 7. Margin 9. New Zealand parrot

10. Laboratory 11. Anesthetic 12. Monetary unit of Japan 16. Authenticating mark 20. Raised platform 21. Chatter 23. Ornamental fabric 25. Unit of potential difference 26. Passport endorsement 28. Speed contest 29. Bleat of a sheep 30. Very small 31. Rural

32. Enliven 34. Kingdom in the Himalayas 35. Gnarl 37. Russian country house 39. Wrath

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 21.

41. High‐class 44. Wreath of flowers 46. French vineyard 47. Fireplace shelf 48. Affirmative reply

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22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

What is troubling our teachers?

IT SADDENED me to hear that things were so bad in our education system, that the distinguished former Headmistress of our prestigious Girls’ High School, was prompted to recommend that some teachers should be shown the door.

Mrs. Andrea Bowman expressed these sentiments, while she was the featured speaker at the annual C.W. Prescod Memorial Lecture on the 12th of November at “Frenches House”.

According to the report on page 3 of the News newspaper of November 16th, 2018, Mrs. Bowman referred to her personal experiences, of having

met teachers of English, who hated poetry and reading with a passion. She said that despite having no passion, “those teachers turn up for work daily and are always on time”.

Mrs. Bowman said, that the students of these teachers, are “instinctively aware of their teachers’ resentment from the very beginning”, which she claimed, would have “poisoned” the teaching/learning interaction, and that “we learn best when we like and enjoy what we are doing”.

Mrs. Bowman opined, that there are some teachers, who despite their

qualification and training, will not be effective teachers, and these are the ones who should be shown “the door”.

There is documentation, that, teachers in St. Vincent have over the years suffered injustice at the hands of their own people who had been placed in positions of authority. I would therefore not support the view by Mrs. Bowman, that the teachers who have exhibited the weaknesses she has described, should be “summarily dismissed, shown the door”.

To me, if those teachers are, “always turning up to work daily, and are always on time”, and if they are of “higher learning and qualification”, then every effort to retain them in the service, should be explored with maturity. It is quite likely, that engaging them in frank discussions aimed at resolving problems, will bring mutually satisfactory results and positively impact the welfare of our young citizens.

In the Midweek Searchlight of November 14, 2017, in an article captioned “Empathy for the teachers of Vincy”, Dr. Debra Providence wrote — “Over the weekend, I read a couple of articles that focused on the plight of teachers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The articles sprung from a recent press conference held by the SVG Teachers Union. One in particular focused on the health concern of teachers. The Union executive described the conditions under which many teachers were working, the fact that their informal survey suggested that many of our teachers were falling ill and have died

within the last decade. “…………..I am one, and I have both experienced and witnessed the toll that the profession can take on those who are called to it. We are often like the Miller’s daughter, expected to turn straw into gold, but we get very little reward. We sacrifice much to ensure the success of our students. We are often the second parents, counsellors, motivators, role models in terms of the impact we have on our students’ lives.

This is immeasurable, which is why I have always felt that we cannot be actually fully compensated for the work we actually do. Still, some effort should be made to close the gap!”

The sentiments expressed by Dr. Providence in that article, reinforce me in the view that the seeming underperformance of those teachers of higher/learning and qualification as identified by Mrs. Bowman, should be addressed maturely, so that we could continue to benefit from their valuable service in these critical times.

Incidentally, over an extended period, there has been evidence of flagrant indifference, neglect and mismanagement which had been burdensome to the populace, but the miscreants were not shown the door.

No one can deny that we are in critical times in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Teachers’ Union and the Police Department are two of the best positioned bodies with the potential to effect the retrieval of order, discipline and civility in our land. They will need the critical support of patriotic citizens!

LeRoy Providence

Justice Andrew Burgess to join the CCJ CHAIRMAN of the distinguished career Regional Judicial and internationally as a judge of Legal Services the Inter-American Commission (RJLSC) and Development Bank’s President of the Caribbean Administrative Tribunal in Court of Justice (CCJ), the Washington DC. Mr. Hon. Mr. Justice Adrian Justice Burgess was the Saunders, has announced body’s Vice-President in that the Hon. Mr. Justice 2007 and 2009, and served Andrew Burgess, currently as President from 2009a Justice of Appeal in 2010.

Barbados’ Court of Appeal, He is also a judge on the will become a Judge of the World Bank Administrative CCJ in 2019.

Tribunal, having been Mr. Justice Saunders appointed in 2013. In 2017, Hon. Mr. Justice warmly welcomed the he was elected by his fellow Andrew Burgess newest CCJ Judge, Judges to be the Vice stating, “Mr. Justice Burgess brings President of the tribunal. with him a wide range of He was a Senior Commonwealth international and regional experience, Fellow at Oxford University, England which will be a great complement to between 1992-1993. Mr. Justice the outstanding jurists already Burgess is also an author, having serving the Court. I look forward to published Commonwealth Caribbean him joining us in the new year, and I Company Law in 2013 and The Law am confident that he will continue of Corporate Receivers and Receiverthe tradition of excellence that has Managers in 2002, in addition to characterised his career thus far”. being published on legal issues Mr. Justice Burgess became a especially in corporate and Court of Appeal Judge in 2010. He commercial jurisprudence. was previously a Dean of the Faculty Mr. Justice Burgess’ appointment of Law at The University of the West will fill the vacancy left by the Indies’ Cave Hill campus and a elevation of Mr. Justice Saunders to Professor of Corporate and the position of President in July 2018.

Commercial Law. He also had a (Source: CCJ, Port of Spain)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 23.

Titles shared in Breakaway Masters Football

K & R Strikers- League winners of the Women’s Division.

NO ONE TEAM DOMINATED any of the four divisions of the 2018 Digicel/ St Vincent Brewery/ Breakaway Masters Firms Invitational Football Tournament, which concluded last Saturday at the Grammar School Playing Field.

In last Saturday’s Senior Division League Final, R & R Construction Transport was installed as new champions, beating CWSA 3-0.

A goal each from, Zenroy Lee and Wilran Joseph and female player Keandra Findlay, gave Transport their comfortable win.

The win also denied CWSA the double, as they had won the Knock Out title.

It was a similar tale in the other three divisions, as the titles were also

shared.

Debutants in the Agriculture Input Warehouse Under- 16 Division- Je Belle, secured the League Competition and System Three One copped the Knock Out. In the SVGFF sponsored Under-19 Division, System Three champed the League and Volcanoes copped the Knock Out. And, in the SVGFF Women’s Division, K and R Strikers took the League and System Threethe Knock Out. Awards Several awards were presented at last Saturday’s Closing Ceremony.

Taking the Most Goals award in the Under-16

Division was System Three One’s Cordel Dallaway, with Jahfari Samuel of System Three Two- the Most Outstanding Goal Keeper.

Player of the Tournament was Osei Delpesche of Je Belle, with System Three Two’s Aidon Solomon, again claiming the Youngest Player award.

System Three Two was adjudged the Under- 16 Division’s Most Disciplined Team.

In the Women’s Division, Sonja Mc Kie of the National Under-15 was the Top Goal Scorer, with System Three’s Altica Benn securing the Most Outstanding Goal Keeper accolade.

K & R Strikers’ Teosha Culzac collected the award as the Player of the

Tournament.

And, receiving the award as the Most Disciplined Team in the Women’s Division, was the National Under-15.

In the Under19 Division, Volcanoes’ D’ Nelson Lewis won the Most Goals award and his team mate- Carl R & R Construction Transport, the 2018 Senior Division Ragguette, the League Champions.

Most Outstanding Goal Keeper.

Aaron Jackson of System Three was named as the Player of the Tournament, with Je Belle voted as the Most Disciplined Team.

Rounding up the awards were those presented to the standouts in the Senior Division.

Toni Stores Combine’s Keshorn Durham was adjudged the Player of the Tournament, with SVG Youngest Player – Post’s Kimberly Nero, as Player of the Female Aidon Solomon (right) the Female Player of the Division – Teosha Tournament. is awarded by Carl Culzac (right) gets her Listed as the Most Dickson. award from SVGFF Outstanding Goal Keeper President- Marvin was Bonadie’s Raphael Lavia and Wilran Joseph Fraser. of Transport- the Most Goals awardee. of Tournament was Among the team Donald “Ducks” Llewellyn, awards, VINLEC copped with Stephen Buntyn the Most Disciplined Team handed a Special Award accolade; Bonadie’s — Most for his Commitment to the Improved Team, and Tournament.

Everready Downstreet This year’s tournament Mini Mart Combined- the was the eighth edition, Most Supported Team. which saw the introduction of a Wilran Joseph (right) Senior Special Awards Women’s Division Division Top Goal Scorer is and an Under-19 rewarded by Marvin FraserNamed as the Spectator Division.

SVGFF’s President.

New winners in Sion Hill Netball NEW WINNERS HAVE EMERGED in the 2018 Vita Malt Sion Hill Netball Tournament.

The new winner in Division One League Competition is Harmony Investment Stars, a new outfit, but with players who have appeared in previous editions of the Tournament.

Harmony Investment Stars, however, were unable to replicate their form last Thursday when they were beaten by Nice Radio Clinchers in the Knock-Out Final.

At the sound of the final whistle, Nice Radio Clinchers had registered a commanding 45-37 win over the League Champions.

Meanwhile, in the newly introduced Division Three, the titles were also shared.

Sion Hill Junior Netball Team took the League and Buccament Bay Androis,

the Knock Out. Buccament Bay Androids claimed the Knock-Out last Wednesday, by getting past Island Blends Success Radio Two, 1911.

When the Tournament, closes off tomorrow at the Sion Hill Playing Field Hard Court, Star Girls will be looking to do the double, when they meet Island Blends Success Radio One in the Division Two Division One League winners- Harmony Knock Out Final. Star Investment Stars.

Girls won the League title.

Presentation Ceremony Nice Radio Clinchers- Division One Knock Out Following tomorrow’s Division Two will take place. champions.

Knock Out Final, the Closing and

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24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Greiggs Softball Cricket titles decided UNITED SURVIVORS retained their Women’s 10/10 title in the Hairoun Brewery FLOW Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem Greiggs Competition, when they beat Ball Burners by 38 runs, in the finals played last Sunday at the Greiggs Central Playing Field.

United Survivors scored 102 for 1 from their 10 overs. Samantha Lynch struck 36 and Kimone Homer 33. Ball Burners, in reply, mustered 64 for 6 from their 10 overs, Shanel Mc Kie topscoring with 30.

Then, in the Men’s 20/20 final, infront of a large crowd, Country Meet Town Outa Trouble not only outwitted Israel Bruce Smashers Inc., but silenced their supporters to win by 70 runs and claim their first hold on the title.

Outa Trouble made 177 for 8 from their 20 overs, openers Richie Richards 40 and Kadier Nedd 37. Bowling for Smashers, Renrick Peters had 4 for 32 and Anthony John picked up 2 for 25.

Smashers were dismissed for 107 in 14.3 overs. Zeron Harry lashed 37, while Deroy Straugh had 3 for 24 and Davian Barnum assisted with 2 for 21.

A combination of smart fielding by Outa Trouble and some injudicious running between the wickets by Smashers, resulted in three run outs which aided Outa Trouble’s cause.

Player of the Tournament in the Men’s 20/20- Glendon James (left) accepts his award from Safrian St Hilaire.

In the third-place playoffs, Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem won by default from North Leeward in the Women’s 10/10, while Owia Repeated winners of the Women’s 10/10 - United Survivors.

Young Strikers beat Left: Cordel Jack - Top Player of the Women’s 10/10.

Bank of SVG All Stars by Trouble’s Carlos Dr Thomas Injectors was named as eight wickets the Most Disciplined Team. in the Men’s 20/20. Scores: All Stars - Williams the Best Manager Award; Rahalio James Best Umpire Julian Richie Richie Richards won the 66, Owia Young Strikers 67 for 2.

Joyles the Most Loyal Spectator.

Player of the Final award.

Awards Cordel Jack of United Survivors took the Player of the Tournament Award for the Women’s 10/10, with hertally of 198 runs and 5 wickets.

She also took the trophy for scoring the Most Runs -198.

Ball Burners’ Zavian Stephens took the Most Wickets-6 , with her teammate- Edelyn Turtin, with a tally of 113 runs and five wickets was named Most Promising Player.

Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem’s Fayanna King was rewarded for taking the Best Catch in the Tournament, with Ball Burners’ Bennett Creese adjudged Best Manager.

United Survivors’ Samantha Lynch was adjudged Player of the Final.

Among the men, the Player of Tournament Award was copped by Smashers’ Glendon James who scored 207 runs and bagged 14 wickets, the latter also earning him the Most Wickets Award.

Delano Woodley, also of Smashers, won the Tournament’ s Best Wicketkeeper Award and Erwin Williams of dethroned champions- Sion Hill Tallawahs, took the award for Most Runs with his total of 257.

Kelly Murray of Bank of SVG All Stars won the Best Catch Award, Outa

New Champions of Hairoun Beer/ FLOW/Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem Greiggs 20/20 Men’s Softball Cricket Competition- CMT Outa Trouble.

Tropical Shipping supports Special Olympics SVG SPECIAL OLYMPICS SVG has been calling on businesses, organizations and individuals to assist in the realization of fielding of a team of athletes for the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, from 14th to 21st March, 2019.

On Tuesday 29th November, 2018, Maxine Howard, Sales Representative - Tropical Shipping, a company that has been serving St. Vincent & the Grenadines and the Caribbean for over 50 years, presented a cheque of US$1,000 to Ms. Lavern Allick — Athlete - Special Olympics SVG, in a brief handing over presentation, which took place at Frenches House.

Howard stated that it was a privilege to be able to make a meaningful contribution to Special Olympics SVG to assist athletes with their training needs, as they prepare for the 2019 World Games in Abu Dhabi, where they are expected to make SVG proud as they did in the 2015 World Games in California, USA. Howard further expressed that the donation falls under the company’s corporate social responsibility and commitment to assist in improving the quality of life of children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, through support for sports, youth entrepreneurship and protection of the environment.

Ms. Sezevra Joseph — National Director Special Olympics SVG, spoke about the commitment and determination of the athletes, and

(L-R): Maxine Howard, Sales Representative - Tropical Shipping, hands over cheque to Ms. Laverne Allick – Athlete - Special Olympics SVG. expressed happiness that businesses such as Tropical Shipping have started to come forward to reward their efforts and to support persons with intellectual disabilities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Laverne Allick thanked Tropical Shipping for their generosity on behalf of all the athletes.

(Submission)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 25.

Sports

Jewel in the crown MAXINE HOWARD, Sales Representative Tropical Shipping, a company that has been serving St. Vincent & the Grenadines and the Caribbean for over 50 years, presented a cheque of US$1,000 to Ms. Lavern Allick — Athlete - Special Olympics SVG. The outpouring of personal testimonies by youngsters, middle aged and elderly revealed the extent to which Jules (Julius Anthony) had taken his devotion to his task.

That mission was defined in a way only he envisaged, and his life was condensed in a pure action package.

Jules broadened his interest to encapsulate a heavy workload. He found time to project his plans, but being one spawned in the art of spontaneity, he performed his role in a firm, pleasant and dignified manner.

He cut across barriers with unruffled panache, and while the list of activities were constantly renewed, his implementation rate was commendable.

Jules’ lesson is profound. There is no doubt as to his intention. His family’s grief is cushioned by the flow of condolences from the spectrum of Vincentian society.

His sporting penetration is well established. His cultural input is subdued except for those where his role as a trumpeter in the band Intense Heat is respected.

Jules was a television news reporter long before social media was the order of the day.

Reference was made of his insistence in seeing the participants in any Miss Leeward pageant returned to their homes safely, be it after rehearsals of the event.

He was instrumental in musical escapades in North Leeward. And he found time to lend his expertise on many other platforms: Trade Union, Credit Union, and Cooperative.

There are many persons who make their living from driving, and they will credit their start to Jules’ tutelage. Perhaps his family paid the sacrifice, for the range of activities he was engaged in meant he was invariably away from home.

Jules never abandoned his family and without coercing anyone, their support for his endeavours was genuine.

There was a determined vigour within Jules.

His calm approach to matters neutralised offending tendencies and he carried on his programme in sincerity.

Jules’ ghost will hand over the Vinlec North Leeward final when it concludes. The groundwork is in place. There was the attraction of reviving the Under 15 cricket competition which emerged as a reservoir for the national squad.

The Cricket Association will fulfil its promise of paying homage to him.

In addition to the work put in by any administrator, individual players have to respond and take their opportunities.

Jules was keen on ensuring that youngsters adhered to proper nutrition. He undertook at times the duties of providing food, snacks and drinks for the youngsters under his care.

He realised the importance of education, and sort to balance sporting, academic and cultural spheres.

The Under 15 competition was marked with an opening Church Service at which the various districts in the North Leeward constituency were bedecked in their St. Vincent Cooperative Bank outfits.

He was the contact man for returning Vincentians, especially with additional children in the entourage. He ensured that visitors here were introduced to the traditional aspect of Vincentian life.

Once you got to know him, there was a lifetime link.

Young Squash players shine ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES was well represented last weekend at the Hilton Barbados Junior Squash Open, staged at the Barbados Squash Club, Marine Park.

Making the best showing was Jayden George, who won the Boys Under-11 in an all Vincentian final, beating Dru Samuel 11-3, 11-4, 11-1.

George was a beaten semifinalist of the Boys Under-13, and lost in the third/fourth play-off match.

Meanwhile, Jaydon Williams was second in the Boys Under-13.

He had come through the various stages undefeated but lost (11-3, 11-1, 11-3) to Alex Stewart of Barbados, in the final.

Williams also contested the Boys Under-15 but was eliminated in the quarter —final.

He bounced back to win the Consolation Final, with a 13-11, 8-11, 11-9, 5-11, 14-12, win over Zishan Motara of the host

(Standing from left): Ciara George, Nadira Morgan, Jaydon Williams, Jada Ross; (Stooping from left): Jayden George, Rashawn Paul and Dru Samuel. country.

Also taking a second place was Ciara George, who finished runner —up to Phoebe Gittens of Barbados.

George finished with two wins and a loss among the females. She was beaten by Gittens in the round robin format of the Girls Under-11.

Competing in the Girls Under- 13, George lost in her quarter final match and in the Consolation Play.

Also representing St Vincent and the Grenadines, were Jada Ross, Rashawn Paul and Nadira

“It’s an honour,” says Bascombe

Morgan .

Ross placed in the Girls Under19, which was contested on a round —robin format, while Paul won the Boys Under-11 Consolation title, beating Noah Clarke, 11-8, 11-3, 11-8.

Morgan got to the semi-finals of the Girls Under-13 but had to settle for the third place.

Coach of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team- Kevin Hannaway, said he was generally pleased with the performance of the team.

“I am excited for the team, and it shows that, once the players put in the work, they can compete against top players in the region, as Barbados is known to have the best Junior Squash players”, Hannaway related.

Hannaway was particularly excited with the debutants- Ciara George, Rashawn Paul and Dru Samuel, who he said showed maturity despite having little experience in competitive Squash.

SOLOMON BASCOMBE, captain of Browne, Aysas Stapleton, Mathew the SVG U15 cricket team to Fredricks, Kelvin participate in the Windward Islands U15 Cricket Tournament to James, Deshrne Clarke, Bowin be held in St Lucia from Dec. 9 — Cain, Javon 18, considers it an honour to be Richardson appointed leader of the team.

Samuel Holder “It’s an honor being appointed as will manage the captain of the national team, and I team, with feel the team will do excellent. I Bertrum Stapleton will try to lead from the front as the as head coach and captain and set good examples”, Kenroy Martin as Bascombe told THE VINCENTIAN the assistant coach.

Solomon recently.

The team leaves Bascombe The young man who led the St for the tournament SVG U15 Vincent Grammar School when on Sunday, captain. they claimed the title of the 2018 December 9th.

Secondary School U15 Tournament, assured that “We will be working I.B.A.ALLEN towards improving from last year, ….. and once we do better we will do well.

We have a good team with NORTH EAST MASTERS moved one Grenadines Police Force Masters an excellent balance in all gained a 7-wicket victory over A. R & areas, and I think that the step closer to retaining their SVG Masters Twenty/20 Cricket title, G Trucking P’tani Masters. Scores: newcomers, …. they have when they claimed a spot in the semi- Ptani Masters 163 for 5 off 20-overs a good bit of experience.” finals of this year’s championship.

Jerome Samuel 75, Alfred McKenzie Bascombe emphasized They are joined in the semis by 39, Sigmon Allen 2 for 13; Police that he and his tam will Mustique Company Masters, the Masters 169 for 3 off 19.2-overs not be taking any team Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Gosnel Cupid 47, lightly.

Police Force Masters Trevor “BUJU” Bailey 39.

“St Lucia is a hard and COMPUTEC Belfongo Masters COMPUTEC Belfongo team to beat, especially The defending champions Masters beat DIGICEL Glamorgan where they are at home, beat Joseph DaSilva’s Sr. Memorial Masters by 8 wickets. Scores: but we will be looking at Funeral Home North Leeward Glamorgan Masters 103 for 8 off 20 every game as the Masters by 49 runs.

Scores: North overs - McNeil Morgan 37, James toughest because all East 188 for 7 off 20-overs - Elton George 27, Sylvannus Morgan 2 for opponents are hard and Williams 79, Harvey Pope 55, Ancill 14; Belfongo Masters 107 for 2 off 12 not to be taken for Hooper 2 for 29; North Leeward 139 overs — Davius Williams 49. granted”, he said. off 18.4-overs - Leon Samuel 73, The semi-finals will be played on The full squad reads.

Olanzo Jackson 4 for 29, Deighton Saturday at 1.30 p.m. North East Soloman Bascombe Butler 3 for 19.

Masters will meet the RSVG Police (captain), Luke Browne Mustique Company Masters at the main Arnos Vale One (vice- captain), Joe Masters claimed their place by Playing Field, and Mustique Williams, Rashawn Lewis beating Stanley Browne’s Stubbs Company Masters will (wicket keeper), Kirtney Masters by 15 runs. Scores: oppose COMPUTEC Belfongo Franklyn, Kodi Grant, Mustique Company 159 for 6 off 20Masters at Arnos Vale 2.

Jazad Farrell, Devante overs - Nicholas Baptiste 62, Carl The final is scheduled for Sunday McDowall, Kammanie Hamlett 36, Dave Stapleton 4 for 32; at 1.00 p. m., at the Arnos Hunbands, Oryan Velox, Stubbs Masters 144 off 19.2-overs Vale (1) Playing Field, to be followed Mario Baptiste, Ian Dawnley Joseph 34, Brian Alexander by the presentation ceremony.

Gonsalves, Raynolly 30, Roy Baptiste 3 for 28.

Hillocks.

The Royal St. Vincent and the I.B.A.ALLEN The reserves are Luke

SVG Masters semi-finals berths decided

V Jules buried 26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute

PEOPLE CLOSE to Julius Anthony are getting used to the loss of his physical frame. He was laid to rest last week Friday at the Troumaca Bay burial ground. But memories of involvement in many aspects of the nation’s pulse will remain for a long time.

Tributes flowed, and there had to be restraint so that the service of Thanksgiving could go on. President of the Cricket Association Kishore Shallow, that of the Football Federation Marvin Fraser. A representative of the St. Vincent Electricity Services (Vinlec) praised Anthony for his over 40 years of dedication to the company, and the Vinlec Choir gave Anthony a fitting

tribute in song. His son J-Al delivered a poem.

William ‘Kojah’ Anthony, and Laura Anthony-Browne paid tribute to their departed brother.

Montgomery Providence, one of Jules’ closest colleagues, delivered the Eulogy. Condensing a hectic partnership they shared into an unfulfilled journey of anticipation.

There was a fountain of information from former West Indies wicket keeper Michael Findlay. He recalled Jules’ path as a fast bowler and whereas Jules might not have been as good a trumpeter as his father, Findlay acknowledged Jules’ contribution to national development.

The North Leeward Sports Association had its say.

The Jules story continues to be unravelled.

Family and friends paying their last respects.

Jules’ send-off was at once ‘solemn and triumphant’. Inset: Jules Anthony (1953 - 2018) His burial served to heighten the mystery surrounding his sudden demise. What that engendered was deeper appreciation of the frailties of life. One day, Jules was fit and strong, going about on his own two feet. The next day he had to be removed from his home, transported to the mortuary and underwent post mortem examination. Results point to haemorrhagic shock, caused by internal bleeding.

What triggered such an occurrence may not have been known. The episode echoes another of the father’s mystery. For that’s the way Jules must have wanted.

The Troumaca Methodist Church was packed with mourners, spilling over to the precincts of the building.

The procession to the cemetery was solemn and triumphant; for everyone wanted to show their appreciation for the son who had evolved to be the torchbearer in the quest for dignity for the North Leeward residents.

His send-off reflected a national outlook. Nearly every community in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must have been represented, for that was the impact of the devout community activist. (WKA)

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 07, 2018. 27.

Classifieds

JOHN C. BUTE Union Methodist Church Wednesday 5th.

December, 2018 Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Sans Souci Cemetery

SABITREE LYTTLE Sunday December 2nd, 2018 Church of God World Wide Mission Redemption Sharpes Service: 2:30 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

JANE DAUPHINE JOSEPH aka DOREEN Glad Tiding Tabernacle Church Gomea Thursday 29th November, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Tributes: 1:30 p.m.

RANDOLPH NORMAN SOLEYN Revival Centre Ministries Murrays Village Saturday 1st December, 2018 Service: 2:30 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

HUGH A. WILSON St. Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church New Town Village Sunday 2nd December, 2018 Viewing 1:00 p.m Service: 2:00 p.m.

HILVA IDLIA WARNER Stubbs Gospel Hall Sunday 2nd December 2018 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery Stubbs

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

DECEMBER 07, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.49

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“HE FOUGHT THE ODDS” a “quiet personality,” who wanted to be a businessman and take care of his family.

“He had a dream for him family; he was working towards it .. I’m just broken,” said John.

John was “broken” after learning that Patrick was found dead on his farm on Saturday 24th November, in an area known as First Land Mountain in Layou.

Police are treating Patrick’s death as a homicide, and while the person(s) responsible for his death is(are) still at large, they (police) assured that their investigations into the young man’s death are ongoing and vigorous.

John, meanwhile, said that he recalled Patrick Ashley John, Patrick’s saying he was lost and personal development teacher, said his former wanted to find his way.

“I recalled Kevin student was working hard to build something saying to me that he was lost and just wanted to for himself and his find his way back, and family. we worked tirelessly with him,” said John.

by KENVILLE HORNE He said that every week, Patrick would find KEVIN PATRICK, whose death is the subject of an him and give him an update on how things ongoing investigation by police here, fought against were working out for him. He worked with the odds to build Patrick to ensure that he ‘something’ for himself (Patrick) would use and his family. entrepreneurial skill to This was the view of keep away from a life of Ashley John, CEO of crime and poverty.

Constructive Solutions “Kevin took those Inc and lecturer at the sessions very serious,” Barrouallie Technical John said.

Institute, where he was “The very last time we Patrick’s Personal met in Kingstown, he Development teacher. came to me with all John described his former student as having grins, saying, ‘Mr John,

all the things I learn from your class I’m putting into practice, and soon I will own my own business. It hard but I’m going to fight’,” John recollected, not knowing that this would be the last conversation the two would have.

“This one truly hits home because this young

man had to fight off so many odds that I cannot even mention to the public, but he was determined. His race is now over, sadly, in a horrible manner, but he died doing what he loved and believed in, being a young male “Agripreneur”, John concluded.

Patrick’s death brings to 33 the number of homicides in St. Vincent and the Grenadines this year.

Police are soliciting the assistance of members of the public in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

Persons with information that might be of

Kevin Patrick – this country’s 33rd homicide victim. assistance, are asked to contact the ACP incharge Crimes at 1-784456-1339 or the officer in charge of CID at 1-784457-1211 or 1-784-4561810.

WEAPONS, AMMO FOUND

by DAYLE DA SILVA

FIVE PERSONS, ages ranging from 20 to 40 years, were said to be in police custody following an operation which turned up five firearms and several rounds of ammunition.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Frankie Joseph said on Thursday that the police conducted an “intelligence driven” operation in the Diamond area on Wednesday, when the items were discovered.

Among the weapons were two 12-gauge shotguns, one MK1 rifle, one 357 Magnum and a Glock pistol.

The other items found include 56 rounds of 5.56 ammunition; eight rounds of Glock ammunition; six rounds of shotgun ammunition; a white mask and several packages.

It was explained to members of the media on Thursday, that the packages were first

thought to contain currency (money), however upon opening them it was determined that they were stuffed with pieces of paper resembling currency.

“Getting five firearms off the street, especially the The guns, ammunition and other items discovered in the type/caliber, it has to be a police raid last Wednesday. big bust DCP Joseph said that continued. because these are five According to the DCP, the police were working firearms less on the very hard to ensure that officers attached to the streets to threaten, the number remains operational divisions maim or kill someone,” where it is, but within the Royal St DCP Joseph said.

Vincent and the cautioned that fighting “We want the crime was the Grenadines Police Force criminals out there to responsibility of the know that we are going had received threats police and civilians from criminals. to be relentless in this alike.

He further stated that fight because the “The police cannot do there were 39 murders citizens of the country it alone, we must have committed in 2017 with must be able to travel the support of the 27 involving firearms; throughout the country general public and we the figure stands at 33 without having to look have been getting that.” over their shoulders,” he so far for 2018 with 21 being gun related.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.