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FRIDAY,

AUGUST 08, 2014

VOLUME 108, No.32

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

SVG CITIZENSHIP NOT FOR SALE

Gonsalves, whose office has direct responsibility for the issuance of citizenship to nonnationals, maintained, “I have a fundamental, philosophical objection to economic citizenship. I maintain that the highest office in the land is that of citizen. “ Dr. Gonsalves did, however, explain that citizenship granted to some investors is not economic citizenship, because they were required to have a commitment to the country for several years up front, and then consideration was given for citizenship.

He said such was the way in which Sir James Mitchell granted citizenship to Canouan investor Antonio Saladino, “and that is the way I did with Dave Ames and one Daniel Cummings, Opposition MP for Dr, Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of SVG, and two others.”

West Kingstown, accused the repeated his and his government’s firm stand But as far as the Prime against the introduction of an Economic Citizenship government of ‘practising’ the policy Minister is concerned, while not officially endorsing it.

Programme.

Vincentian citizenship and

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY due diligence.”

Eustace, has been pushing for passports are not commodities for sale.

AND KENVILLE HORNE And while Dr. Gonsalves’ an economic citizenship “Who wants to do economic reiteration came in response to facility for years, “because Mr. citizenship, that is their ST. VINCENT AND THE a question at the press Eustace knows how critical it GRENADINES will not be conference, it also came on the is to look for alternative forms business… if I am the last man standing with that, that encouraging the practice of heels of finger-pointing by of financing for government,” Economic Citizenship.

Opposition MP for West and referenced “big countries” is the position which I hold, and I happen to believe that Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Kingstown, Daniel Cummings, who have Economic that is the position of the vast Gonsalves reiterated this who, at an opposition New Citizenship Programmes. majority of people of St. policy position last Monday, Democratic Party (NDP) ‘Ring Cummings questioned during a press conference he De bell’ Rally in Kingstown whether the policy was in fact Vincent and the Grenadines,” hosted. last week Thursday, accused in place in St, Vincent and the Gonsalves declared.

As it stands, Vincentian Dr. Gonsalves described the Government of collecting Grenadines, and wanted to citizenship is accorded on the Economic Citizenship as “a money for citizenship, even as know, “how many persons basis of birth, descent, superficially attractive option,” the government has opposed have gained citizenship and but was quick to add, “The such a move. passports under ULP, and how marriage to a Vincentian, downside outweighs whatever According to Cummings, the much money has been paid to naturalization, and under a provision in law where money you can collect; the NDP, through its president, the treasury …… ?” someone has had a connection downside being the problems Opposition Leader Arnhim But Prime Minister to the country for five years you may have, dealing with

David Ames, the mastermind behind the Buccament Bay Resort, was awarded citizenship by the ULP government, amidst contention he had with overseas investors. and has made a significant economic, social or cultural development to the country.

In the latter case, a person must be of sound character, understands what it means to be a citizen, and be able to write and speak the English language with a certain level of proficiency.

Currently among OECS countries, Economic Citizenship programmes exist in St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica. St. Lucia is exploring the possibility of introducing such a facility, and Grenada is moving towards re-introducing its programme which was discontinued in 2001.

2. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 NDP holds ÂRing the BellÊ march and rally

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 3.

Opposition Leader Arhnim Eustace addressing the gathering.

by KENVILLE HORNE ROBERT ‘PATCHES’ KNIGHTS 2014 calypso has become so popular that the Opposition NDP adopted the name for a series of political campaign and a protest march and rally.

Last Thursday, hundreds of opposition supporters took to the streets of Kingstown to protest what they deemed as rampant corruption in the country, unemployment Senator St Clair and victimization, among Leacock promised that other issues. the NDP would no The protesters, longer collaborate with bearing placards while the Government. decked in their yellow jerseys and shirts, the colour associated with the NDP, and led by their leader Arnhim Eustace and his wife Jennifer Eustace, marched from the NDP headquarters at Murray’s Road, around the town, ending at Heritage Square for a rally.

There, the rally got into gear, with the opposition leader declaring that there is a need for a change of President of the Young Democrats Nick Francis. government in SVG. “We are here today, to say to you the people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines, that it is time for a change in the government of SVG,” said Eustace to loud approval from his supporters.

“After 13 years of Ralph Gonsalves ……., I know that he has to go,” he stated.

He said he is confident that he and his team can bring back prosperity to The march also saw the people of businessman Leon “Bigger SVG. Biggs” Samuel displaying a The placard on which he pleads to opposition Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves leader used an to give him back his job. example of a

lady who has had amputation on one leg, twice in less than a week, to highlight the poor health condition in the country. “What is happening is totally unacceptable,” he emphasized, adding that such a case justifies the reason why persons have to travel overseas for medical attention, stating that it is because he sees the suffering of Vincentians and the corruption in government that he is not going “to rest until Gonsalves goes”. He further said that persons are frustrated because of the lack of employment and spending power. “The people them can’t make ends meet, can’t mind they children, can’t buy food in the town, can’t buy anything,” he concluded.

Opposition MP for Central Kingstown and Vic-President, St. Clair Leacock declared that, on behalf of the rest of the leadership of the party, they would no longer collaborate with the government, “ save and except for the next general elections”. He said the protest is against the rising crime and violence and corruption. “In this country, corruption is running so rife that if we don’t arrest it, I wouldn’t like to see it in a year from now,” he asserted.

Leacock did not dispute that corruption was not present in the previous administrations, “but they did what they could to stamp it out. This anti-corruption march is not because we in the New Democratic Party don’t have anything to do; it is because in the New Democratic Party, it pains us terribly,” Leacock added. The Central Kingstown representative said he is confident that when the election is called, the NDP will take the reins of government.

NDP supporters came out to lend support during the ‘Ring the Bell’ March.

Placards on display during the march.

This protestor said that things are so hard in SVG that he cannot buy gas.

the young people and our generation President of the Young of this Democrats, Nick Francis country!” he stressed. said that the NDP has North Windward the plans and caretaker Lauren programmes to get the Baptiste said the NDP young people back to would build a new work. “Hundreds of them economy in SVG, while are graduating from the North Leeward community college every representative Patel year, with no prospect of Matthews promised that employment under this the EC$ 6 million that administration. What a serves as loans for failure they have been to farmers under the

Farmers Support Programme, will be given to farmers as a grant, should his party take power in the next general election.

The rally also heard addresses from Senator Vynnette Frederick and the representative of West Kingstown Daniel Cummings.

V

4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Outstanding police officer retires

ONE OF THIS COUNTRY’S outstanding police officers retired from the RSVG Police Force last Saturday after 31 years of service to the constabulary and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Charles Adams held the rank of Station Sergeant and was Deputy Fire Chief at the time of his retirement.

A release from the

Police Public Relations and Complaints Department stated that Adams received the highest level of training and certification during his time at the Fire Department. He has been described as a master scuba driver whose training included mechanical engineering, hostage rescue, air conditioning and

Businessman on

ammo charges A BUSINESSMAN, carrying the same name as the late world renowned pop star Michael Jackson, appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court Monday on three charges of ammunition possession.

The 29-year-old pleaded not guilty to having without licence, 50 rounds of .38 ammunition, 115 rounds of .9mm ammunition and ten rounds of .357 magnum ammunition. He also denied possession of 194 grams of marijuana with intent to supply, and dishonestly assisting in the disposal of a bed mattress, knowing that it was stolen or unlawfully obtained.

Jackson of Old Montrose was offered $120,000 bail with one surety, with reporting conditions and that he surrender his travel documents. The court also ordered a dusk to dawn curfew, and the placing of stop notices at ports of entry and exist.

The marijuana and ammunition charges stemmed from a police action at Paul’s Avenue, July 30, while the offence of dishonesty is alleged to have occurred at Old Montrose, July 27.

Dangerous neighbourhood

weaponry.

Adams, who joined the Fire Department in 2003 after spending several years at the Coast Guard Service, was also involved in the training of employees in the private and government sectors as Former Station Sergeant well as merchants and personnel in the cruise and Deputy Fire Chief,Charles Adams. ship industry.

According to the expressed gratitude to police release, the Adams for this service, executive management team and members of the and wish him the best in his future endeavours.

Police Force have

Elderly woman fined $1,800 for cocaine A 65-YEAR-OLD WOMAN was this week ordered to pay the court $1,800 for possession of 20 grams of cocaine with intent to supply.

Mary Pompey, a shopkeeper of Richland Park, was ordered to pay $1,000 forthwith or six months in prison, and $800 by August 22 or four months.

Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias handed down the penalty at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday after Pompey pleaded guilty to the offence.

The records revealed that she had a history of antecedents for possession of illegal drugs.

“Have mercy on me, your honour”, the elderly woman pleaded, amidst a packed court room.

“You are a perpetual offender”, the Magistrate replied.

Pompey was arrested around 11:20 a.m. last Saturday, August 2, after police officers from the Narcotics Unit executed a search at her Liquor and Provision Shop which is adjacent to her house at Richland Park.

A transparent plastic bag containing 34 aluminium foil wrappings of cocaine as well as a black plastic bag with the illegal substance were found at the bottom of a stove. The search also revealed $120 in cash, believed to be the proceeds of drug sale. The court ordered that the money be forfeited.

At press time Wednesday, THE VINCENTIAN had not ascertained whether Pompey paid the first part of (HH) the fine.

THE PURCHASE of four Pick-up Trucks for the country’s security services comes as response to threats to stability. $400,000 were spent on the vehicles which have already been used. Prime Minister Dr. Gonsalves touched on the issue last Monday.

That was following a meeting with the Police high command.

“We live in a dangerous Prime Minister Dr. Hon. neighbourhood,” Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Gonsalves remarked. acknowledged that SVG He stated that St. is one of several points Vincent and the in the Eastern Caribbean Grenadines was one for shipping cocaine to of several other destinations. transhipment points in the Eastern Caribbean for cocaine heading to destinations.

He linked the cocaine trade to a proliferation of small arms.

The Vincentian leader assured that measures must be taken to deal with the situation.

He alluded to the freedom of movement within CARICOM, and outlined that some persons had taken advantage of the ease in travel arrangements.

The Vincentian Prime Minister pointed out that some travellers were appearing to be on legitimate businesses, while they engaged in other activities.

Minister of National Security in addition to Minister of Finance and Grenadines Affairs, Dr. Gonsalves commended the Police for their duties.

Commissioner of Police Michael Charles returns to the helm September 3, but Reynold Hadaway, the man in charge, came in for praises from Dr. Gonsalves.

Gun fire in an area known as Kingstown Park in early July, followed by the drive-by killing of two villagers at Evesham raised signals of increased friction.

The Police stepped up their vigilance along the path of stemming a tide of lawless conduct.

‘Barfood’ kicks the bucket so,” said the weeping sister.

According to Maureen, IN A BIZARRE 53 years of age, from the INCIDENT on Friday moment her brother fell 25th July, a man fell he never got back up. from a bucket and died.

When THE Kenroy ‘Barfood’ Haynes, 49 years of Plan, VINCENTIAN arrived on the scene, Haynes was Pauls Avenue, was weeping uncontrollably sitting on a bucket just over her brother’s corpse, outside his home, when he fell forward and died. praying for him to wake The death is a strange up.

A team of nurses and one, and in search of an nursing assistants from explanation some the Milton Cato persons in the Memorial Hospital community believe that (MCMH) arrived on the Haynes must have had scene to assess the some internal sickness situation, but following a that would have contributed to his death. call to the hospital, the team left in an Maureen Haynes, ambulance. Following sister of the deceased, the nurses’ departure, witnessed the drama two police officers unfold.

“He been dey sit down appeared, but THE VINCENTIAN was pon a bucket, and me unsure whether or not a just see him fall down

BY KENVILLE HORNE

doctor was brought in to pronounce Haynes dead.

Maureen has now lost all of her siblings, with the passing of her brother Kenroy.

She said her mother had five children, and both she and her bother each had three children.

Kenroy is reported to have had behavioural issues as a child, and he was once a resident at the Liberty Lodge Training School. He seemed to have been plagued with one issue after the other, not least being that two of his three children are currently serving jail sentences.

The heart broken sister expressed love for her brother. “Ah me real brother, me bother throughout me life,” she

Kenroy ‘Barfood’ Haynes was said to have had behavioural issues as a youth. said between tears.

A family member told THE VINCENTIAN ON Tuesday that an autopsy report indicated that Kenroy has died from “a heart attack.”

Kenroy Haynes was buried on Wednesday August 6th.

V US imposes travel ban on Venezuelan officials

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 5.

Regional

THE US STATE DEPARTMENT has announced that the US will impose travel restrictions on a number of Venezuelan officials.

The announcement was made last week Wednesday (July 30). And, while it stopped short on specifics related to how many people would be affected, the statement did say that

those affected would be those “who have been responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses,” in Venezuela.

The proposed action, i.e. travel restrictions into the USA, according to US State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf, is in response to “arbitrary detentions and excessive

Cuba: Attracting more visitors controlled, continues to attract large numbers of stay-over visitors, not least among them being Canadians.

According to Cuba’s National Statistics and Visitors to Cuba showed an increase for January to June Information Office 2014 over the same period in (ONE), Canada continues to be the 2013. primary source of visitors to Cuba.

ONE’s report says that over 181,260 Canadians visited the island up to Hotel Breezes Jibacoa – just one June; however, the number was of the luxury hotels that Cuba lower than in has to offer. same period last WHILE THE Englishyear, when more than speaking Caribbean 183,850 Canadians came States grapple with to the island. challenges of attracting According to ONE, foreign visitors (tourists) Canada is followed by the to their shores, Spanish- UK, Germany, Mexico, speaking Cuba, the Spain, Italy, Venezuela, largest island in the Russia, Argentina and Caribbean archipelago, is Colombia. having no such problems, A breakdown of the it seems.

ONE report reveals that, Cuba tourism from January to June, industry, albeit

the island was the destination of 1,660,055 visitors, a slight increase compared to the similar period in 2013, when the total tourist arrivals were recorded at 1,597,000.

The ONE defines a visitor as a person who travels to another country for a period less than a year for purposes such as tourism, business or other personal interests. And this category of visitor is split into tourists and excursionists, tourists being those persons who travel to a country for a stay between one night and one year.

Excursionists are those foreign citizens who travel for a period IN WHAT SOME observers say is a ‘tit for under 24 hours tat’ game, the Gaston Browne-led Labour without including Party government in Antigua and overnight Barbuda has announced that it will accommodations. launch investigations “to determine whether there was malfeasance in public (Source: office under the Baldwin Spencer-led Caribbean News United Progressive Party (UPP) Now) administration.”

The Antigua Observer reported on Saturday 2nd August, that Chief of Staff Lionel ‘Max” Hurst announced Friday that forensic Wear investigations will be categories, launched into a number and their of programmes and skills in a initiatives undertaken Talent by the UPP government. section.

Among the The top programmes to be five investigated are: “the St Kitts Nevis’ Kaeve performers Armstrong winner (middle), Wadadli Power Plant in these (WPP); the Sir Vivian Antigua & Barbuda’s categories Richards Cricket went on to Karla Gellizeau, Heidigail Francis copped Stadium; the Transport was one of the 1st runner-up (left), and a final five finalists in Dominica’s Francine Baron Board; the Board of round, Education; the St John’s the 2014 Antigua placed 2nd runner-up which Development Jaycess Queen (right). (Photo: Antigua involved Corporation; the sale of Competition.

Observer) the crown lands; Public interview The Jaycees Queen Show Works; and the segment only. is said to be the oldest operation of embassies Karla Gellizeau, competition and one of the in Cuba and in New representing St. Vincent and more prestigious, of its sort York.” the Grenadines in place of in the English-speaking These areas and more 2014 Miss SVG Shadeisha Caribbean. It is held became major talking George, won the interview annually as part of Antigua points during the segment, but did not seem to & Barbuda’s Carnival Antigua & Barbuda have amassed enough points celebrations, which Labour Party (ABLP) in the first three judged climaxed, this year, on election campaign. categories, to place her Tuesday.

But with the among the top three.

St. Kitts/Nevis takes Antigua Jaycess crown IN WHAT MANY Vincentians who witnessed this year’s Miss Carival Show might have been thinking should have been the result, Miss St. Kitts/Nevis turned the tables on Miss Dominica, in the 53 Edition of the Antigua Jaycees Queen Competition.

When the judges’ decision was announced early Saturday (August 02), Miss St.Kitts/Nevis, Naeve Armstrong, the same lady who had placed second in the 2014 Miss Carival Show, was declared overall winner.

Miss Carival 2014, Dominica’s Francine Baron, was adjudged 2nd runnerup, with Miss Antigua/Barbuda, Heidigail Francis, in the 1st runner-up position.

Twelve ladies competed in this year’s Jaycees Queen Show, matching their poise in Swimwear and Evening

use of force” by Venezuelan officials, as they tried to contain growing antigovernment protest.

The Venezuelan opposition has been lobbying for sanctions since thousands of protesters were detained during anti-government protests in which at least 43 people were killed, since street protest intensified in February this year.

Relations between the US Gen Hugo and Venezuela took a turn Carvajal was for the worse about a week released from ago, when the former head of detention in Venezuelan military Marie Harf, US State Aruba, much to intelligence, Gen Hugo Department spokeswoman, the Carvajal, was released from says the travel restrictions disappointment of custody in the Caribbean, are in response to the the US. and given a hero’s welcome Venezuelan authorities’ in Caracas. abuse of power.

Gen Carvajal had been detained on the Dutch of threatening Aruba and the Caribbean island of Aruba over US Netherlands into freeing Gen Carvajal. accusations of drug-trafficking In Venezuela itself, reports are that activities. the (street) demonstrations have The US Treasury said he had been become smaller and less frequent, but protecting drug shipments by tensions in the deeply divided country Colombian Farc rebels. remain high.

He was released after Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro has claimed he had diplomatic immunity accused the opposition of trying to because he had been appointed as launch a coup against his government Venezuela’s consul in Aruba. at the behest of “the imperialist US The US said his release was “deeply force”. disappointing,” and accused Venezuela

Spencer and company to be investigated

Baldwin Spencer, Opposition Leader, may be coming under investigation, but he has reiterated his call for the removal of the Attorney General.

Lionel /Max’ Hurst, Antigua’s Chief of Staff, made the announcement of the proposed investigation.

announcement, observers in Antigua and Barbuda immediately recalled that when the UPP was elected in 2004, the Spenceradministration hired its own financial forensic investigator, Robert Lindquist, to look into malfeasance in the previous government, i.e. a Labour Party government.

However, after much talk, no report has ever been released; neither has it formed the basis of any court trial.

Meanwhile, the UPP, now in opposition, has intensified its calls for Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin to be removed as Attorney General.

Benjamin is before the courts on a forgery charge, and as far as the UPP is concerned, his appointment is an affront to the justice system.(Source: Antigua Observer)

V

6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The Mustique Charitable Trust initiates treeplanting project Academy.

Gunn told the The Mustique Charitable audience, which included Trust (MCT) has injected students and staff of the EC$ 26,000 into a tree RVA, employees of the planting project that would Mustique Company, see the Richmond Vale farmers, Ministry of Academy (RVA) planting Agriculture officials and and providing thousands of the media, that the trust Moringa trees to was pleased to announce communities on the the launch of the MCT leeward side of the island, funded Tree-Planting and to some extent the Project as part of its Windward side, while the responsibility to provide Ministry of Agriculture will assistance after the provide over 500 fruit weather trough caused trees to farmers on the devastating floods in windward side.

St.Vincent on the night During the launching of Christmas Eve 2014. of the MTC Tree She said donors from Planting Project at the Mustique responded Curator’s House at the generously to the request Botanic Gardens, on from the Prime Minister, Tuesday , Lavinia Gunn, Ralph Gonsalves, for administrator of the assistance after the Trust ,handed over a storm. “One of the donors cheque for EC$10,000 to requested that his the Ministry of donation of EC$ 26,000 Agriculture, and a be spent on the further EC$ 16,000 to replanting of trees in the the Richmond Vale areas of the country

by KENVILLE HORNE

L-R: Farmer Robert Jacob accepts Moringa Plant from Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar.

L-R: MCT Administrator Lavinia Gunn hands over cheque to Principal of the Richmond Vale Academy Stina Herberg and Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar.

where fruit trees and tress stabilizing hills and banks had been washed away,” disclosed the Trust Administrator. “The Ministry of Agriculture and the Richmond Vale Academy responded most enthusiastically to the Trust’s request for assistance in the growing and distribution of suitable trees,” Gunn added.

She further declared that it is the intention of the MCT that both the Moringa trees and fruit trees which will be distributed towards the end of the year, will help to replace some of the many trees lost on December 24th, 2014, provide a measure of stabilization to ground damaged by the floods, and sources of nutrition and income.

The Tree-Planting Project forms part of the MCT donation of EC$1,000,000 to the Government of SVG to assist with the storm relief effort. The balance of the funds have been allocated to assist with the refurbishment of the Pediatric Wing at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital which was completed in May of this year, and to the building of homes for needy families who lost homes as a result of the severe flooding .

The RVA has already declared their intention

of planting and distributing 10,000 Moringa trees across the country, so this cash injection would propel this project even faster .

The plant is used in the treatment and prevention of ailments such as cancers, ulcers and arthritis and common Students and staff from the RVA pose for a photo with MCT influenza.

Administrator Lavinia Gunn (center) and Minister of Principal of the Richmond Agriculture Saboto Caesar (center) Backrow.

Vale Caesar commended the importance of trees.

Academy Stina Herberg “I can breathe because of the donor for assisting in was quite delighted to the recovery effort, along trees; trees give us partner with both the with the RVA and other oxygen, trees clean the MCT and the Ministry of air, trees clean the soil, organizations for Agriculture. engaging in the planting trees prevent soil Herberg said she had erosion, trees act as wind of Moringa trees. He witnessed the Christmas breakers, and most noted that SVG has done Disaster last year and “it important of all, trees really well as it pertains has been an eye opener”. can help us maintain a to reducing hunger and She acknowledges that healthy atmosphere”, she undernourishment, a the climate is changing, positive which was concluded. “and the climate is recognized by the FAO. Meanwhile, Minister changing due to human The Mustique of Agriculture Saboto burning of fossil fuel. We Caesar said he was very Charitable Trust is are polluting the considered the most overwhelmed by the atmosphere, and we are graciousness of the MCT active Trust in SVG. heating up the planet. in extending their border Beside the donation on We have heated the of love and charity to the Tuesday, the Trust has planet already 1 degree, people of SVG. “The seed been contributing and if we heat it 3.5 was sown in the office of extensively to education, degrees, 70% of all lives health and the Ministry of as we know it would be infrastructure. The Cane Agriculture when extinct”, declared End Government School, Lavinia Gunn came to Herberg . She pointed to the office and made the the Bequia Reading Club, the Mountain View proposal. She made a proposal that there was a Academy , Helping Hands Centre, House of donor willing to assist Hope, Hurricane Tomas the country in the Relief Fund, the recovery programme, and plain clothes had to be stationed Salvation Army and the particularly to do so in at the bank to protect that lady, University of the West the replanting of trees,” Prime Minister Gonsalves Indies Open Campus, said Caesar, showing disclosed. He spoke of having how the idea for the tree just to name a few, have patrols at her home also as all benefitted from the planting initiative was additional precautionary Trust’s generosity. born. measures.

The Vincentian leader decried a policy by a former regime of loans to certain individuals, and which operations proved a drain on the bank’s resources.

Dr. Gonsalves commended his handling of the crisis, and praised the composition of the new players in the banking sector.

“If other indigenous banks had done what we did, their insitutions would not have been in problems,” he stated.

Small banks not practical

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY SMALL FINANCIAL institutions operating on their own are bound to fail. That’s the view of Vincentian Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves. He was justifying his decision to dispose of the former National Commercial Bank. That institution was started in 1977 by then Premier Robert Milton Cato.

The Bank changed course in 2010 when the government used a $100M loan from the Caribbean Development Bank to take care of outstanding amounts by the bank.

The formula was changed, with East Caribbean Financial Holding: 51 percent, the

Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 22.26 percent, Public 15.78 percent, National Insurance Service 10 percent, and BOSVG Staff .96 percent.

Dr. Gonsalves alluded to NCB’s equity at the time of adjustment, and harped on it having “management issues.” He also referred to delinquent loans, and of having to write off $35M in loans accrued to Ottley Hall and Union Island Marina.

Trying to collect some outstanding loans appeared to have run into obstacles, according to Dr. Gonsalves.

He recounted having put a lady at the NCB to collect debts, but indicated that “people were threatening her.” Police officers in

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 7.

V

8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 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 China’s place in the New Development Bank LAST WEEK, we introduced the New Development Bank (NDB), established by the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), as an alternative, if not a rival, to the Western-backed World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF).

By some strange twist of fate, and as though to bear testimony to what last week’s editorial proffered, i.e. that it was going to be some time before this NDB reached out to small, low income economies like ours, we read that the IMF will disbursed some US$6.4 million for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, to help the country meet an “urgent balance-of-payments need” due to severe flooding and landslides in December 2013.

This is to assure us that it will be some time before we can wean ourselves away from the likes of the World Bank and the IMF. But we want to spend a little time looking at a point made in last week’s editorial, i.e. a point in reference to a new hegemony that could well be the outcome of this NDB, once it takes firm root.

From what we understand, the NDB will be established with contributions from each of the BRICS, with China expected to provide 40 percent of a $100 billion Contingency Reserve Arrangement – more than twice the amount of any other country — thus making it the dominant partner.

And who is to question that (dominance) when it is now being advanced that China could overtake the USA as the world largest single economy by as early as 2015?

Within the BRICS, China stands apart; it has the largest economy, 17 times larger than South Africa which, by the way, was welcomed into the original BRIC grouping on the recommendation and support of China, thus giving rise to the BRICS. China is the new world economic juggernaut; it accounted for 40% of all global growth in the five years following the global economic and financial crash that began in 2008.

Further, China is the largest trading partner of the other four members, but none of the four even ranks in China’s top five. China would want to maintain its trade options within the BRICS, and use them to advance its space in other developed and developing economies.

It is not incorrect to deduce that the make-up of the NDB is already skewed towards dominance by one partner, China, and the fact that it (the Bank) is to be headquartered in Shanghai, China, only reinforces this reality.

But why is China bothering to involve itself in a (New) Development Bank when it sits on reserves of US$3.3 trillion, and has apportioned some US$200 billion to the China Investment Corporation which, in effect, is a development bank (of its own)?

For China, it has to be about gaining acceptance and protection, i.e. insulation from some ‘bad’ fallout from its bilateral arrangements with nations across the globe, not least in Africa.

China has been criticized for its investment strategy in developing countries. And not withstanding that Chinese money has contributed to keeping the USA economy afloat, Chinese money has also found its way into countries, like Sudan, whose human rights records are horrendous, and often result in sanctions by Western countries.

China, simply, has not hidden its intent on establishing a larger role for itself on the global stage.

In addition, while there has been tremendous Chinese investment (factories, transportation infra-structure) in several African countries, and resulting trade in cheap Chinese exports and Chinese monopoly on natural resources exploitation and purchase, Africans have accused the Chinese of disregarding environmental concerns, failing to effectively improve the living standards of the general populations.

What the NDB offers China is insulation from all of this, with support of making investment under a multilateral umbrella, while, it is anticipated, offering less inflexible conditions than those we have grown accustomed seeing from the World Bank and the IMF. Further, under the ‘protection’ of the multilateral umbrella, it takes away the focus’ on investment’ as an extension of a larger foreign policy.

Try as much as President Xi Jinping of China would want to say otherwise, that “China does not acknowledge the old logic of ‘when a country is strong it must dominate’,” he would be hard-pressed to shake off the fact that economic strength has a way, without much effort, of floating to the top.

So while the developing world, even if it is simply because of what has obtained, welcomes the NDB, and would want to believe that it could evolve into a complementary rather than a competitive entity, it must guard against finding itself embroiled in a ‘new’ cold war predicated on investment and trade.

The E.G. Lynch left-overs E.G WAS TOO IMPRESSIVE a person to leave without a trail of memories.

After all, Ralph, with whom he seemed to carry-on a love-hate relationship, called him “an icon” and “a titan”, epithets that gave the author away as having written the ULP column of July 31, last.

I believe that the vicious tail-wind struck up by his passing is natural (by now) to SVG, and ought to be treated as it deserved, as just another passing cloud in the dark skies of SVG. I take umbrage at the letter penned by Cuthbert Williams on an aspect of this sequel of E.G’s, which according to Williams, threatened to “desecrate” his memory, and cried shame on the Anglican hosts which permitted the affair.

I speak as an Anglican as committed to the church as, perhaps, Cuthbert.

I was somewhat younger than his father ‘Nappy’ Williams who rose up in the Anglican Church, and was particularly fond of his wife-to-be (Cuthbert’s mother) Prescilla Anderson who taught me my catechisms and how to be a little Christian, in lessons that sank home.

Like Cuthbert, too, I am disappointed with some Church policy-decisions of late, like gay Bishops, and pray that the maker will in time explain to me the folly of my ways!

But, truth to tell, I could not accept the horrid picture painted of the surroundings of the Georgetown church at the time of the funeral: NDP miscreants had brought in rum and beer, some had defecated on the floor of the bathroom; others had removed fittings: all had come to vent their rage at PM Ralph Gonsalves who had merely responded to an invitation of Lynch’s daughter to pay a tribute to the dead.

To begin with, both men had been sworn enemies up to the time of Lynch’s death, Ralph himself had admitted that he had refused Lynch’s request of a pardon which was too late, accompanied by his removal of Lynch’s encircling arms, with some rather ugly remarks by the P.M. Secondly, they believed that Lynch’s death was partly encompassed by the debtburden imposed by the PM who had refused to lighten it when asked.

Thirdly, everybody in touch with the dying Lynch knew that he died committed to his NDP and particularly to its leader Arnhim Eustace who had been expected to deliver a tribute.

Fourthly, the family member who contacted Dr. Gonsalves has had serious ULP connections. Her mother, Margaret London, may have had other ideas.

Fifthly and finally, Dr. Gonsalves had pulled off a similar stunt at Saluche’s Funeral seven years ago, where the general congregation was taken completely by surprise. This time, they were primed up,

ready, and waiting, and gave vent to pentup rage at the first sign that the P.M intended to make his rather bold move again.

Mayhem virtually greeted the P.M, with the confusion persisting until he gave way.

Personally, I believe that Arnhim Eustace and his NDP crew were stunned into silence. It all happened so fast, the presiding celebrant, Ulric Jones was thrown into a mental tail-spin as to what to do in the circumstances. Cuthbert has condemned his sin of omission in not interceding as unforgiveable so that he will not attend future services at which Ulric is participating. I rather think that father Jones’ real offence was committed months ago when he had refused to shake the P.M’s extended hand in a public place!

In fact, I must declare that I was not around for any of the events connected with Lynch’s death. I followed the progress of the actual funeral on Nice Radio, and read literally about two or three comments in the newspapers. I was generally wrapped up in my own health problems.

I understand that one of my favourite friends and writers Parnel Campbell has pontificated a view to which I am diametrically opposed. As soon as I set eyes on a published version, I will beg to differ while respecting that view.

By way of recommendation, I believe that all churches should be persuaded to do away with the eulogy. They do infinitely more harm than good, and play into the hands of politicians.

The priest should know the truth of the dead and, in any event, he can be supplemented with other facts from family members.

True, we shall miss some fine literature by this abolition, notably contributions by John Horne and Andrew Cummings, but the extended media house are the proper place for these gems.

Secondly, the Eulogist should emerge in State funerals from frank discussions between representatives of the church and State.

In this context, I had been chosen by “Son” Mitchell to deliver the eulogy on Eddie Griffith’s death, with the approval of Dean Smith who made me cast the eulogy in the form of a sermon which I believe should be the prescribed model of the eulogy.

That way, one can hardly get a eulogy delivered by “an enemy” of the deceased, which could have taken place in the Lynch case.

Thirdly, Cuthbert Williams’s accusations of the surrounding circumstances should be investigated with a view to serious attention if found true, and condemnation if false.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 9.

Letters

My dearest Flow

I SEE YOU are meeting with the Prime Minister, Invest SVG et al; but what about us? We pay you every month.

You have come to SVG to give us what you feel we should have at your price, globalization; but some of us have to sacrifice to have a little entertainment at home, so we cannot allow our contract with Karib Cable (who you bought out) via our monthly payment, to be discarded just so.

I ask all subscribers, let us join together to file a class action suit. The basic package will be $100 plus Vat. I checked the booklet.

Please call the law office of Kay Bacchus-Browne — 457-1828 for details. It needs a lot of Davids and this Goliath.

A now mentally disturbed subscriber

Kudos for Mr. Cummings I was invited by a friend to attend the Emancipation Day event hosted by Mr. Daniel Cummings, at the Finishing and Furnishing Car Park. To tell you the truth, Mr. Editor, I was hesitant because I did not want to get mixed up in any political event. However, my friend insisted, and I agreed to attend the event with her and her family.

I must say that I was taken aback. Even though it was for all intents and purposes an NDP event, there was nothing political about it.

In fact, I saw many persons there who you would consider independent. And the people with whom I came into contact spoke about everything else other than politics. Mr. Cummings, himself, could be scene milling about, shaking hands and talking with all and

sundry.

Cummings.

And the food was not only cheap, but it was Heather tasty. There was as wide a choice as you could find anywhere. I understand that all of this food was provided free of charge by persons in Mr. * Why is it every Daniel’s constituency, year we have to and that some of his purchase ‘revised friends came in from editions’ of the Trinidad to spice things same school books? up with their roti. If this * Who is making all is true, Mr. Cummings the money from this must have truly scheme? endeared himself to the people of West * When are we Kingstown. going to stop fooling And a word on the ourselves with this entertainment: While I ‘free education’ talk am not one for loud in this country? music, I must say that the selection of songs * What’s the played by the band made situation regarding me feel ‘young again’. the export of It is one of the truly bananas to the UK? family-oriented events Why the silence? that I have attended in a long time. I have no * Anybody knows regrets attending the who is the largest event and, God willing, I arrowroot grower in would attend next year.

SVG? Kudos to Mr.

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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

What would Jesus have said and done at Lynch’s funeral service, and after?

The Issue NOW THAT THE DUST is settling, or has settled, after Elwardo Lynch’s funeral service at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church at Georgetown on Saturday, July 19, 2014, right-thinking Vincentians, at home and abroad, are asking the vital question: What would Jesus have said and done then, and now? That is the central query; all else is sophistry, evasion, political rubbish, and devilish obfuscation.

Eustace at the booing and jeering of the Prime Minister. But when the visage of Jones repeatedly came into view, and in his ridiculous mockhumour of a mythical conversation between Lynch and St. Peter at heaven’s gate, as part of his homily, The Unvarnished Facts one could not avoid the memory of The notorious, and unusual, factual Reverend Jones refusing to shake the occurrence at Lynch’s funeral service is offered hand of the Prime Minister as a that a small minority of the sign of peace a few years before at the congregants, supporters of the Kingstown Methodist Church on the opposition NDP largely out of occasion of the retirement of the iconic Kingstown, disrupted the religious Reverend Job from his Methodist assembly with noise, cursing, the ministry. Mindful of all this, and more, ringing of a bell, the booing of the Ulric Jones at the Holy Trinity Church Prime Minister, and general criminal represented a partisan NDP at prayer! misconduct.

Eustace’s post-funeral comments of This disruption and unruly support for his unruly mob, confirmed behaviour of this small minority was for many his true feelings in his failure not a spontaneous outpouring of bile and/or refusal to rebuke the disrupters and anger against the Prime Minister. at the funeral service.

It was the planned consequence of a week-long campaign of incitement of What would Jesus have said and done, now? rank-and-file NDP supporters, We feel sure that all Christian instigated by leading spokespersons of people, devoid of political posturing or the opposition NDP on “NICE Radio” fear of the braying tongues of the and the social media. This nefarious discredited NDP minority and the campaign was hatched in conspiracy, malicious words of the supporting cast organised in unchristian disregard of of “internet crazies”, know in their the sanctity of a funeral service, hearts and minds that Jesus would propagated mindlessly with tribal have continued to denounce the unruly passion, and executed by a rabble in mob and instigators, while seeking profound disrespect of God, His meaningful reconciliation and pursuing Church, the living, and the dead. The a quest for individual and collective executors undoubtedly broke the law redemption. against “disrupting a religious But what have we gotten instead assembly”; and those who incited these from the NDP and its fellow-travellers. law-breakers are also guilty of The “getting” includes: criminal, and ungodly misconduct! (i) Eustace’s declaration that the unruly mob were “exercising their What would Jesus have done, then? democratic rights.”

In the light of the sanctity of the (ii) The nonsense from Eustace’s Lord’s Temple and Church, and the side-kick, Dr. Adrian Fraser, that this holiness of His funeral service, the planned disruption was nothing but a teachings and witness of Jesus would “spontaneous” tipping-point from have prompted immediately the people who “can’t take the pressure” following: anymore. [Adrian, what about the (i) The condemnation of those who more than three-quarters of the had disturbed the religious assembly congregation who were peaceful and and those who had instigated it. respectful of God, the living, and the (ii) The removal of the unruly dead? Are you now so jaundiced in your minority from the House of God. opinion that you have lost all sense of (iii) The punishment of the unruly balance and decency?] minority, and the conspirators who (iii) The propaganda rubbish from were behind it all.

Jerry George, an NDP partisan posing (iv) The demand for them to repent, as objective journalist, that the and to apologise to the Church, Lynch’s incident was all about Ralph being family, the gathering of pilgrims, and “booed out of his constituency”. the Prime Minister. (iv) Assorted malignant commentary Instead, what did we get? Our from the “internet crazies” against “getting” included: Lynch’s family for inviting Ralph to (i) Abject silence from the presiding speak at the funeral, against Lynch’s priest, Father Ulric Jones, and Arnhim daughter for her dignified and Eustace, the leader of the opposition reflective commentary on her father’s party from which the unruly rabble funeral, against God’s teachings, and hailed. Jones did not even mention the against the noble traditions of our criminal and unGodly disturbance of Caribbean civilisation in the burying of his Church when he delivered his our dead. homily. Eustace similarly was mute on the subject when he gave his tribute to Final comment Lynch.

The opposition NDP has taken a (ii) Continued disruption by the political beating on the unruly unruly minority even after Lynch’s son behaviour of their supporters at the and daughter, and an Anglican layfuneral service and the attempts by the reader, at different times called for NDP leadership to defend that which order, decency, and respect for God and cannot be defended. In the process, the the deceased’s family.

NDP has lost tremendous support from (iii) Silence, too, from Father the outer circles of its base, and has Brooker, the other officiating priest, lost swing votes. At the same time, who was sitting next to the lay-reader unwittingly, the NDP has energised who did his duty nobly and voluntarily, the ULP’s base. This episode has though in vain. reminded everyone, except the myopic Upon a review of the video of the core of the NDP base and the “internet proceedings, one cannot with certainty crazies”, that the NDP remains a affirm that there was a smug NASTY party. The people will again satisfaction on the faces of Jones and reject it at the next general elections.

The NDP will revive agriculture THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY (ULP) administration must take the blame and responsibility for the demise of agriculture and more so the death of the banana industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Early in the life of this administration, the government took control of the Banana Growers Association. The government then removed the credit facility which was established to assist farmers with their inputs; hence, making it extremely difficult for them to purchase fertilizer, insecticide and other inputs.

Presently, we are not exporting any bananas to the European market, thanks to the ULP administration. An industry which once earned over $120 million in 1992, was reduced to a meagre $1.5 million in 2012, and we are yet to receive the figures for 2013.

Because of the unavailability of the figures for 2013, one can only assume that the amount of money earned for the export of bananas in 2013 was far less than 2012. No wonder the figures have not been released. Farmers are experiencing the darkest days under the ULP administration.

However, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has heard the cry of the farmers, and has begun to prepare its agricultural programme and policies to be implemented when it is returned to office. The overall goal of the NDP National Agriculture Policy is to optimise and maximise our capacity to provide for our food needs. This will be done through increasing production of a range of crops and livestock species, as well as fish and related byproducts, thus ensuring a sustainable food security for all.

Furthermore, agriculture has a pivotal role to play in diversifying the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Through this process, we will reduce inequalities by increasing incomes and employment opportunities for the poor. It is also a mechanism that will utilise our natural resources to earn foreign exchange. Our National Agricultural Renewal Programme is fundamental towards improving the quality of life in our rural communities.

For instance, the NDP recognises the critical role that banana will play in the economic development of this country, and has pledged to revive the banana industry when it returns to office. As part of our programme, we plan to rehabilitate and replant 1000 acres of bananas in the first year. In that programme, banana farmers will be assisted with inputs at the initial stage and receive $500 as income support for six (6) months. Other farmers will also be assisted which includes a 20% discount on inputs.

The NDP will go further and develop mechanisms that would support the sustainability of the banana sector in the global environment, ensure a profitable and sustainable agricultural production and marketing system, increase agricultural productivity by the optimum utilisation of the factors of production and the use of appropriate technology. We will also improve the competitiveness of agricultural commodities in the domestic and external markets, ensure environmental protection through environmentally friendly agricultural practices, and establish agro-

processing and agro-based industries by promoting the backward and forward linkages within the agricultural sector.

Education The beginning of the new academic year is fast approaching, and parents are making preparations for their children to return to school. Because of the hard economic condition in the country, most parents are unemployed and are experiencing tremendous difficulties to purchase the items that their children need. Moreover, those students who are on the Book Loan Scheme are faced with a major problem. They are not receiving all of the text books, and this is of grave concern to their parents. It means that these parents have to buy the text books. Where will some of these parents get the money to purchase these books?

The NDP, when it was in office, established the Book Loan Scheme to assist the poor and working class in this country. Parents were asked to contribute $50.00, and they received all of the text books needed for his\her child, and during the years of the NDP in government students received all of their text books. Over $2.5 million was budgeted by the NDP for the programme. When the ULP gained power, the budget for the Book Loan Scheme was reduced significantly to $6,000 thus creating severe hardship on the parents to purchase the books.

Not only did the NDP introduce the Book Loan Scheme, the party also started the School Feeding Programme which the ULP regime has not been managing efficiently.

Again, the ULP government has reduced the budget for the programme. Other initiatives that were implemented by the former NDP administration include the payment of Economic Cost for students who study at the University of the West Indies, the introduction of the student loan, and most importantly the economically disadvantaged category of the Student Loan.

The NDP then had the vision and foresight to implement such programmes which benefitted and continue to benefit thousands of Vincentians from poor and working class families. These social programmes demonstrate that the NDP has a high value on education and will continue to work in the interest of the poor and working class when it returns to office. For instance, the NDP will pay the exam fees for all students who will be writing the CSEC and CAPE exams. We will also build a dormitory for students from the Grenadines and rural areas. This accommodation will ease the burden of the parents in these areas and make it easier for the students to access quality education. Therefore, Vincentians need to elect the NDP when the next general elections are called, so that they will be the beneficiaries of the party’s programmes and policies.

V Men and women that we

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 11.

Views

can trust

“MEN OF GENIUS ARE ADMIRED, men of wealth are envied, men of power are feared; but only men of character are trusted.” - Alfred Adler (1870–1937) Austrian psychologist and psychiatrist.

Give us men and women that we can trust! Our society continues to cry out for more men and women in leadership positions that we can trust.

This is as true for leadership positions in government as it is for those who wield power and authority in the private sector, non-government organisations, and the church. While it is good to have persons in leadership positions who demonstrate intellectual prowess, this characteristic alone is insufficient for leading. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) reminds us of the danger that can be perpetrated by an intelligent person who lacks integrity.

This great icon of mankind, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, reminds us that, “The most dangerous criminal may be the man gifted with reason, but with no morals.” Intelligence has its place.

But it is often overstated when our society is assessing leadership potential. Aided by the Alfred Adler quotation that was used to introduce this week’s essay, we need to put intelligence, wealth, power, and character into perspective. And we caution our young people in particular not to be distracted by the glitter and glamour of the world periodically dangled before us as “success”. We must forever focus on character building. When the titles and material things in life are stripped away, we can afford to stand bare with our integrity in place. And that should be sufficient.

Intelligence, power, wealth, and beauty are very fragile. They are fickle. They can be here today and gone tomorrow. But character is more lasting; more permanent. Those individuals whose lives are anchored on honesty, integrity, patience, gentleness, meekness, empathy and so on, are more predictable and trustworthy. We can be secure in knowing where they will stand and how they will lead when challenged by life’s choices. They are not perfect.

But in so many instances, they are predictable. They are men and women that we can trust.

As I paused to ponder the thoughts shared in the preceding paragraphs, it dawned on me that it will be so useful to have examples to share with the reading audience. Two readily surfaced. The first was that of the 16th President of the United States of America, President Abraham Lincoln, and the other was that of the former Chief Minister of Montserrat, Bertrand Osborne. Sharing insights on these two individuals should encourage and inspire us to value individuals of noble character. That is more important than wealth, intelligence, or power.

The American historian Doris Kearns Goodwin asserts that when Abraham Lincoln was elected president, he ran against three candidates who were perceived to be more intelligent than he was. They

were also adjudged to be more educated and much better orators.

But it is felt that Lincoln won the presidency because the people trusted him. They considered him to be decent and honest. He certainly lived this out during his reign as president.

He demonstrated political strength, showed empathy, shared credit for successes, accepted responsibility for the shortcomings of his direct reports, acknowledged his errors, and learned from his mistakes. He was known to be humble and genuine. People trusted him.

My second example comes from within the Caribbean region.

Bertram Osborne had built his family business “from the ground floor up”.

He had resisted the urge to get involved in partisan politics in his homeland, Montserrat, for a number of years. However, the people had clamoured for him to “throw his hat in the ring” in an effort to change the political landscape on Montserrat during the latter part of the 1990s.

People trusted Bertram Osborne. He was known to be a decent and caring man. When he entered the political arena, he was perceived as Montserrat’s kindest, most gentle, and honest politician. He was swept into power with a landslide victory in November, 1966. The people wanted change. They wanted to have a new breed of politician. A politician that they could trust. He served as Montserrat’s Chief Minister (replacing Reuben Meade) from November, 1996 to August, 1997. Media reports indicated that he resigned from his post amid demonstrations over his dealings with the British government in the wake of Montserrat being ravaged by volcanic eruptions.

Bertrand Osborne was (and still is) a man of principle; a man of integrity.

A man that people can trust.

These two outstanding individuals remind us of the value of taking principled positions even when the odds and forces may appear to be so greatly stacked against us. Their lives bear testimony of the value of integrity and honesty. Their testimonies live on through the ages to remind us that character is more important than intelligence, wealth and power. Give us men and women with unshakeable integrity. Men and women that we can trust.

Some readers of this week’s column may have their own examples that they would want to advance as persons that they can trust. These individuals need not come from the “political category”. We have examples that will emerge in various groupings or professions. Individuals who refuse to compromise principles.

Men and women who demonstrate integrity in their private and public lives. These, too, are individuals that we can trust.

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

Emancipations and Reparations (Pt2) WE PICK UP THE BRILLIANT ADDRESS

by Dr Hilary Beckles that was shared with readers in last week's edition.

'I wish now to engage the argument of the British Government that the slavery and other colonial crimes were ‘legal’, and that they took place ‘a long time ago’, and are beyond the border of adjudication.

Allow me, to breach protocol and to interject myself into the discourse, in order to demonstrate how very contemporary and current this exploitation of the Caribbean people is and has been.

Upstairs this chamber sits the Earl of Harewood. He is an honourable member of the House of Lords. But does Lord Harewood know that my grandfather after Independence in Barbados in 1966 labored on this sugar plantation, as did his father and forefathers, going back to the days of slavery? Does the goodly Lord know that as a child I took lunch for my grandfather into the canefields of his sugar plantation? Lord Harewood, and my family, go back a long way, from slavery right into the present.

Take also the very aristocratic and very distinguished Cumberbatch family.

It has now produced the brilliant young actor, Benedict Cumberbatch. Benedict’s grandfather owned the estate on which my beloved great grandmother worked all her adult life. They enslaved my family on their Cleland plantation in the parish of St. Andrew. My great grandmother, who helped to raise me, and who we all called ‘mammy’, carried the name Adriana Cumberbatch. The actor and academic are joined therefore by a common past and present, and maybe, common blood!

My case is but one of ten thousand such cases. Everywhere across the Caribbean the presence of our enslavers can be identified in our daily domestic lives. This history is not remote. It is alive and pressing upon our daily affairs.

And what have our people and governments been doing with respect to this legacy since we have gained national independence? The truth is, the people of the Caribbean have been very courageous in their effort at selfdevelopment and self-help in respect of this terrible history and enduring legacy.

Our citizens have faced this past head on, and have established a vibrant culture of community self-help and sustainable regional development mobilization. We are not beggars! We are not subservient! We do not want charity and handouts! We want justice!

Reparatory justice!

When all is said and done, our governments these past 50 years have been cleaning up the mess left behind

by Britain’s colonial legacy. Our finest Presidents and Prime Ministers have been devising projects to clean up the awful mess inherited from slavery and colonization. They must be commended for this effort, but the fact is, this legacy of rubble and ruin, persistent poverty, and racialised relations and reasoning, that continues to cripple our best efforts, has been daunting.

Britain, and its Parliament, cannot morally and legally turn their back upon this past, and walk away from the mess they have left behind. This Parliament has to return to the scene of its crimes, and participate as a legitimate parliament, as a legal parliament, in the healing and rehabilitation of the Caribbean.

We cannot, and should not, be asked to do this by ourselves. We have done our part. This Parliament must now return, and do its part, within the context of reparatory justice, and within the framework of development cooperation.

I wish to give two examples of how this reparatory justice can work: (1) Jamaica, Britain’s largest slave colony, was left with 80% black functional illiteracy at Independence in 1962. From this circumstance the great and courageous Jamaican nation has struggled with development and poverty alleviation. The deep crisis remains.

This Parliament owes the people of Jamaica an educational and human resource investment initiative.

(2) Barbados, Britain’s first slave society, is now called the amputation capitol of the world. It is here that the stress profile of slavery and racial apartheid; dietary disaster and psychological trauma; and the addiction to the consumption of sugar and salt, have reached the highest peak. The country is now host to the world’s most virulent diabetes and hypertension epidemic. This Parliament owes the people of Barbados an education and health initiative.

It is the same for all our countries; the Bahamas, the Leewards, the Windwards, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, and beyond.

The Caricom Ten Point Plan for Reparatory Justice addresses these development issues that are central to the case Britain has to answer.

It is an invitation to Great Britain to demonstrate leadership within the legal, moral, and diplomatic culture of the world, within the Commonwealth, and in its relations with the Caribbean.

It took all of the 19th century to uproot slavery from the Caribbean; from Haiti in 1804 to the Spanish sub-region in the 1880s. It took another 100 years to create citizenship, nationhood, and democracy across the Caribbean as a development framework. We have helped ourselves.

This 21st century will be the century of global reparatory justice. Citizens are now, for the first time since they were driven into retreat by colonialism, able to stand up for reparatory justice without fear. Their claim, their just claim for reparations, will not go away.

Rather, like the waves upon our beautiful shores, they will keep coming until reparatory justice is attained.

We call on all members of this House, to rise to this challenge and to assist Great Britain to be truly worthy of the title “Great”. I urge you to do the right thing, in the right way. There is no other right time, other than right now, in our time. There is so much to gain from your leadership. The Caribbean is counting on you.

In 1823, the honourable Thomas Buxton, M.P. for Weymouth presented a bill to this House calling for an Emancipation Act with compensation for the enslaved people. His bill and vision were defeated. Instead, ten years later, an emancipation bill was passed, not with compensation for the enslaved, but with handsome and generous compensation for enslavers. Some 40% of the national expenditure of the country was handed over to slaveowners as reparations.

The enslaved people of the Caribbean got nothing. Indeed, they were then called upon by the said Emancipation Act to give £27 million in free labour to their enslavers. The injustice and the cruelty of that Emancipation Act, remain today like a fish bone stuck in our throats.

We urge members of this Parliament to rise up and bring the Buxton vision to life. He was a noble warrior for reparatory justice; his spirit can return to this House, and the 21st century will be ours to forge a new moral order for our collective wellbeing.

On behalf of the Caricom Reparations Commission, all my colleagues across the Caribbean who have worked with our governments in order to bring this case before you, I ask that you respond with humility and openness when your government receives an invitation to meet with our governments in summit in order to discuss this matter.

May the values and the spirit of development, cooperation and mutual respect guide us all.'

All Caribbean people should join as one voice and proclaim 'Reparations in our life time.'

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

V

12. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

End ULP economic madness –

SVG needs Green financial innovation IT IS THE ULP regime’s economic and financial incompetence and lack of vision that have caused such a prolonged period of high poverty, high unemployment, high crime rate and extensive suffering for our people.

SVG must change from ULP regime’s economic madness to a Green government in order to get a strong economy, financial competence and thousands of new jobs.

In 2001, when the ULP took office, the price of a barrel of crude oil was around US$35. Everyone knows that long-term, the price of oil will go up and up, because it will become more scarce and harder to access.

SVG is highly dependent upon oil to produce the electricity we need. So, in 2001, the ULP regime should have started a rigorous campaign to change over to using renewable energy to produce the electricity we need, and to stop our economy being squeezed, as more and more money would be used to pay for the ever increasing price of oil.

Instead, they have openly displayed their economic ignorance and kept our country heavily dependent upon oil. At present, the price of a barrel of crude oil is around US$105, and we can see that our economy is shuddering to a halt, because so much of businesses’ and households’ money is wasted on paying for electricity produced by expensive oil.

We are paying about three times as much money

We will set a target of having the majority of households and businesses producing cheap electricity from renewable energy and the majority of the nation’s electricity supplied by renewable energy. This will make electricity much cheaper for everyone. A number of people have told SVG Green Party Leader, Ivan O’Neal, that they have adopted renewable energy, and now no longer have to pay for the same unit of electricity, because the price of Vinlec big bills of hundreds of dollars each month. oil has increased three-fold since 2001. The ULP With renewable energy and lower electricity bills, regime’s lack of vision and foresight is killing the households and businesses will have more money to economy and making our people suffer. All around spend on other things. This Green financial the country, businesses say they struggle to get innovation means that households will be able to sales and it’s the worst it’s been in 40 years. spend more money in shops and other businesses.

Even after 13 years of the economy getting worse Businesses would then have more sales and be able and worse, 10 years of consecutive fiscal deficits, to employ more people. and 3 years of consecutive failures of the audit of With more money circulating around the country, Public Accounts, the ULP regime still exhibits we will see an increase in new businesses, and economic madness. investment in innovation and technology. It is the The ULP regime has imposed a combined tax and high price of electricity produced from expensive oil customs duty of around 25.35% on solar panels. At a that inhibits new businesses starting up, and stifles time when our country must desperately turn to business growth and economic growth.

Green energy to help save the economy, the ULP A Green government will also set up an regime is actively putting barriers in the way to Independent Service Commission to calculate the discourage households and businesses from monthly fuel surcharge rate at Vinlec. The fuel investing in solar panels to produce cheap surcharge calculation and financial statistics will be electricity. transparent and put on public display. This will There is little more stupid than this and this, ensure that our people will get cheaper and fairpoint in itself illustrates the economic madness of priced electricity. At present, the fuel surcharge is the ULP regime leadership. usually higher than the charge for energy used. This A Green government will abolish the combined is unfair. tax and customs duty of around 25.35% on solar SVG needs Green financial innovation. We have panels and all taxes and customs duties on wind had ULP regime economic incompetence for far too turbines and all other equipment that produce long. electricity from renewable energy. This will make it much easier for households and businesses to SVG Green Party produce cheap electricity from renewable energy. www.svggreenparty.org

Another educator passes on period which spanned over three decades, THE TEACHING Shallow impacted fraternity has lost significantly on the lives another colleague via the of those pupils who came death route. Calvert under his tutelage. In ‘Jerry’ Shallow addition to his excellent succumbed to one of his academic instructions maladies last Friday 1st which he imparted to his at the Milton Cato pupils, he also groomed Memorial Hospital. He them in the sporting was suffering and discipline of football. battling with his As a matter of fact, maladies for over two many individuals who years. Shallow was 55 at belong to the present the time of his death. generation of footballers Ensconced in the benefitted tremendously teaching profession for a from Shallow’s coaching

by PATMOS RICHARDS

skills. A well- liked individual, ‘Jerry’ as he was popularly known, endeared himself to the parents of the pupils whom he taught.

Shallow, originally from Mesopotamia in the Marriaqua Valley, taught at different institutions, including the former Richmond Hill Government School where he had a long stint, and the Kingstown Preparatory School (Prep-school) where he was stationed up until

his death.

Shallow was a community-minded individual, and will be sadly missed, not only by his immediate family, but by the general public.

He will be laid to rest this weekend.

I hasten to add that Calvert Shallow was the brother of the late Gerard ‘Rasum’ Shallow, a songwriter, lyricist and calypsonian of great repute.

Shallow’s surviving

siblings are Luevene, Rosemarie, Rawle, Cosmore, Allison, Fiona and Elliot who sings under the sobriquet of ‘Mystery’ in the national calypso arena.

Shallow will be laid to rest today Friday at the Kingstown Cemetery, following a church service at the Kingstown Methodist Church.

V Jomo well-received in NY

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 13.

Diaspora

Enjoying the evening: New York Consul General Selmon Walters (L), UN Ambassador L. Rhonda King and Jomo Thomas Brooklyn last Saturday afternoon/evening for the barbecued Stories and photos by NELSON A. KING fund-raiser, rubbing shoulders with naking@verizon.net; and giving kisses to the prospective neloking@msn.com candidate, while offering their US CORRESPONDENT blessings on a successful campaign.

“The turn-out was good, it was THE HEIGHTENED POLITICAL climate at orderly,” said Emery Alexander, home has seemingly extended to New formerly Jack, a former sergeant in York, with enthusiastic supporters the local constabulary. welcoming Jomo Thomas, the newly“Everything went smooth,” added selected Unity Labor Party (ULP) the Chauncey, South Leeward native candidate for South Leeward, over the and Thomas’s relative. “You couldn’t last weekend. get a better turn-out, considering that Thomas, 56 — who had lived in the rain was threatening. Real good Brooklyn, New York for most of his 21- turn-out!” year-residence in the United States, Even one very ardent New before returning home 10 years ago — Democratic Party (NDP) supporter, was warmly received at the first fund- Douglas Howard, of Edinboro, showed raising drive in the Big Apple in his up at the event, telling THE honor.

VINCENTIAN that he was “venturing The event was initiated by ULP into the lion’s den”, unconcerned about stalwarts Chris Ralph and Tammy the crowd’s reaction, but apparently Kirby, with assistance from Thomas’s curious about Thomas’s reception. sister, Claudette Butler-Thomas, Thomas, who had lived mostly in Garnes Byron and other ULP Brooklyn while residing in the US, supporters, Thomas told THE seemed a bit surprised by the VINCENTIAN. overwhelming support.

Many die-hard ULP supporters, “I was quite pleased with the friends, well-wishers and observers reception I received,” he said in a turned up at the Friends of Crown VINCENTIAN interview. “I was also Heights Educational Center in pleased with the amount of people who

Jomo Thomas addressing fundraiser.

L-R Back Row: Chris Ralph, B.A. Lucas, Jeffrey Doyle, Emery Alexander, Nick Lucas, Erlin Richards and Tammy Kirby; Stooping, L-R: Garnes Byron, Jomo Thomas and Maxwell Haywood

showed up.”

Thomas, a practising attorney, who has been living in Campden Park since returning home in 2004, expressed confidence in winning the South Leeward constituency, stating that he brings a lot to the table.

He was born and grew up in Murray’s Village, Kingstown, before migrating to New York. His father, Wilmoth Jack, who died 10 years ago, was a Chauncey native. His mother, Molly Thomas, who was born in Georgetown, resides in Brooklyn.

“I bring a number of good things to the race,” Thomas said. “I have a long history of standing up for justice — for the poor and vulnerable.

“I have training in broad areas, and I’ll put that to work,” added Thomas, who has an undergraduate degree in political science and journalism from Brooklyn College, City University of New York; a master’s degree in political economy and international relations from Howard University in Washington, D.C.; and a juris doctorate (law degree) and certificate in international law from Rutgers University in New Jersey.

He also obtained his legal education

certificate from Hugh Wooding Law School, St. Augustine Campus (Trinidad and Tobago), University of the West Indies.

“I build coalitions. I’m not a polarizing figure; and, in the end, I’ll be in the winner’s column,” affirmed Thomas, stating that his plans are not separate from the ULP’s for South Leeward.

“We, in our team, we understand the problems there, and we’re prepared to work,” he added.

Thomas said he will work feverishly in addressing the unemployment situation in the area by, among other things, spurring young people to adopt farming, finding markets for agroproducts and fish, developing technical training programs for the youth “who did not do well in school,” and enhancing the Vermont Nature Trail as a more vibrant tourist attraction.

“I believe my candidacy is part of that process of development,” he earlier told the fund-raising reception.

“St. Vincent and the Grenadines is there for you, and we want you to come home to a better place.”

Big NDP town hall meeting in NY this Saturday NEW YORK seems to fast becoming a major battleground for the main political parties in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as the main opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) stages its second town hall meeting in less than three months in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn, considered by many to be the symbolic Vincentian capital in the United States, or perhaps in the entire Diaspora, will host NDP chairman and Member of Parliament Senator Dr. Linton Lewis and his parliamentary colleague Roland “Patel” Matthews, as well as North Windward candidate Lauren “Chief” Baptiste, at a town hall meeting this Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center, 671 Prospect Place, between Bedford and Franklin Avenues.

Over the years, the center — with branches spread throughout Brooklyn, whose president and chief executive officer is Calliaqua native Vaughan Toney — has

increasingly become the hub of many Vincentian activities in New York, including political and group meetings and fundraisers.

Last weekend, one of the educational centers was the venue for a fundraising barbecue for newly-selected, incumbent Unity Labor Party (ULP), candidate Jomo Thomas.

On May 17, the NDP, headed by party leader and president, Arnhim Eustace, and vice president, Major St. Clair Leacock, held what was described as its largest and most successful town hall meeting to date in Brooklyn.

But, on the heels of the United Nations General Assembly last October, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves received arguably the biggest crowd ever for a town hall meeting at the center.

Former NDP candidate for South Windward, Stephen “Scombo” John, who heads the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Progressive Organization of New York, Inc., otherwise known by the acronym, SPOONY, the NDP affiliate, said he expects a large turnout for this Saturday’s town hall meeting, starting at 7:00 pm.

“We’re expecting an exciting weekend because Dr. Lewis will be speaking more about the (alleged) corruption issue in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. “He’s also going to talk about the passport issue.

“We’re also excited to have Lauren Baptiste, a descendant of Carib Chief Chatoyer, who is poised to win the constituency of North Windward,” added John, a principal in the Office of Adult and Continuing Education in New York City’s Department of Education. “We are also excited to have the controversial and exciting ‘Patel’ Matthews (MP for North Leeward). He’s a fireball, he’s a hard hitter.

“We’re expecting a large

Dr Linton Lewis and Roland ‘Pattel’ Matthews are among those expected to address the meeting. crowd,” John continued.

“We’re expecting North Windward to be competing against North Leeward in a friendly way. They compete at home, and we expect to get the same out here.

“We’re circulating flyers, emails, word of mouth, whatever we think we can, to get the word out there,” he said.

John noted that ULP supporters in New York are “very vigilant” and attentive to activities at home, but added: “They’re not feeling the pressure at home. They’re not hearing the cries of the people at home.”

Opposition leader Hon.Arnhim Eustace addressing town hall meeting in May.

Saturday’s town hall meeting will be preceded the day before by a “Sip & Chat” reception at the same venue by the NDP officials, starting at 7:30 p.m., John said.

“This occasion will provide you with the opportunity to hear first-hand about the party’s plan for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the role of the Diaspora in an NDP-led administration/government, and also to talk one-on-one with senior party leaders on the current situation in SVG (St. Vincent and the Grenadines) and other related matters,” said John in an email circulated in New York.

V

14. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

James to carry the mantle

of the people of North Leeward and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I have CARLOS JAMES, ruling Unity Labour reported for duty, and I am deeply Party (ULP) candidate for North Leeward committed to making a significant in the next general elections contribution to nation building”, said constitutionally due December 2015, has James, a product of Troumaca, a reported for duty. vibrant community in North Leeward.

James made the declaration during James is confident and satisfied an interview with THE VINCENTIAN that the social policies of the ULP on Monday, four days after the ULP administration, under the leadership National Council ratified his of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph candidacy.

Gonsalve,s will take the country “I am ready to work in the interest further along its development path. He

by HAYDN HUGGINS

pointed to the tremendous strides made in education, housing and home help for the elderly. He noted that the indigence level moved from over 25 percent prior to 2001 to 2.9 percent under the ULP government.

“This is a government that is touching the lives of poor and working class people”, he stressed.

As part of his plans for North Leeward, James, currently a practising Barrister-at-Law, will be focusing primarily on youth empowerment ULP Candidate for North Leeward, Carlos James programmes. He cited plans to focus primarily on youth empowerment sharpening the skills of programmes. young people through vocational training, to as a candidate for North Leeward. address the issue of unemployment, as “I am always on the ground and in well as a strong focus on the touch with the people of North agricultural sector and sustainable Leeward, a relationship that will tourism. continue, with or without politics”, he James, a youngster with a wealth of assured. experience, pointed out that the James, who holds a Bachelor’s and government has shown its confidence Master’s degree in law from the United in youth through its senatorial Kingdom, was called to the Bar of appointments of Luke Browne, England and Wales in 2010, and later Camillo Gonsalves and Jomo Thomas, to the local Bar. He worked as a and now his inclusion as a ULP journalist, locally and a correspondent candidate. for the Caribbean Media Corporation “With the experience of the Prime (CMC). He has completed several Minister and other senior ministers, it working stints internationally, shows that we have the right mix of including two at the Commonwealth persons in terms of leadership to take headquarters in London in 2005 and the country forward”, he explained.

2010 respectively.

Asked about complaints by some James has expressed gratitude to people, that parliamentary the people of North Leeward for their representatives of successive support, and urges them to continue to governments have neglected their rally behind his candidacy and the constituencies, James said that, even ULP. before he was selected as a candidate, James and Jomo Thomas, who will he had always dedicated his time to contest the South Leeward seat, are the people of North Leeward. He noted the first two ULP candidates to be that he has been having constituency selected for the next general elections. clinics every Thursday, something he They are both entering the race for the started months before he was selected first time.

Let the institutions work VINCENTIAN PRIME MINISTER Dr Ralph Gonsalves is leaving matters surrounding the resignation of former Registrar Vanessa Tamara GibsonMarks to run its proper course. Dr. Gonsalves preferred to stay silent on details about the issue.

He outlined that an Audit Report had been done into some accounts at the Registry.

Copies of the findings have been sent to the Police and the Director of Public Prosecutions. Attorney General Judith Jones- Morgan has also been given a sample of the auditor’s statements.

The St. Lucian born former Registrar faces proceedings as to whether she should continue to practise as a lawyer.

Marks took up duties here in 2008.

She was asked to resign following a meeting with the Attorney General, May 21.

Shortly after that encounter, Gibson-Marks returned to her homeland in the neighbouring St. Lucia, north of mainland St. Vincent.

Her action has sparked waves of controversy, and the episode continues to engender widespread responses.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 15.

16. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 17.

St. Vincent National Centre for Technological Innovation Inc.

The History PROVIDING THE PUBLIC with professional courses was just the start of how St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Centre of Technological Innovation Inc. (SVGNCTI) forged brilliant minds of tomorrow. SVGNCTI has been shaped by moments of inspiration, perseverance, and courage. Furthermore innovation and quality is at the heart of everything we do. Here’s how we've made A student collecting his certificate from one of our history with you. trainers.

SVGNCTI Headquarters upstairs the Banana Growers’ Association building on Sharpe Street, Kingstown.

the contractor/EU training in Information Education/Skills consultants for the Communication Training Division, the Technologies, SVGNCTI Youth Department in the delivery of ICT courses to Teachers under the EU seeks to make a positive Ministry of National funded Improvement of contribution to the socio- Mobilization, Social Education through the economic development of Development, Youth St. Vincent and the Empowerment Services, use of ICT. The courses were in three (3) Grenadines. the Sports Department, categories: Productivity In June 2008, the Liberty Lodge SVGNCTI was the local Training School, Marion Tools for Teachers, Basic facilitator of the House Kingstown, Young Computer Maintenance for teachers and Online Partnership in Athletics Programme Opportunities for (YAP), and the AGANAR Learning Resources for Mr Keswick Lewis was specific ICT-related 2002 -2006 Teachers. This training Employment through programme. instrumental in the courses. NIT acquired was completed in Technology in the In 2009, under the establishment of the International Computer Formerly known as October 2011, with over Americas (POETA), a National ICT training Driving License (ICDL) the National Institute of NIT. The department 100 persons benefiting project sponsored by the project, funded by the began with a staff which and Pearson VUE testing Organization of Technology (NIT), , it from the programme.

European Union, the accreditation which was a department within included Charles Burke The SVGNCTI has American States (OAS).

SVGNCTI conducted and Seymourne allowed the NIT to offer This project aimed to the Ministry of islandwide ICT training ventured into new areas Bascombe as instructors, a wide variety of testing provide low and no-cost Telecommunications, by offering diploma and for almost 2000 services via Pearson Science, Technology and Abigail Browne as the certificate training technology training at Vincentians. Training secretary and Stephen VUE’s clients, such as, Industry located at opportunities through Community Access ranged from basic Buntyn as the office CompTia, Microsoft and Centres to the underOttley Hall. the British Computer computer skills to attendant.

CISCO. The NIT set a privileged, marginal and advanced courses such as Society (BCS) and the We formed a strategic mandate to deliver Association for Business at-risk youth of the CCNA and MCSE. alliance with OneTech, a 2007 -2009 affordable Information Executives (ABE). It also Caribbean and Latin Additionally, in 2009, training institution from and Communication offers Business America. Under this SVGNCTI acquired In February 2007, the programme, over 200 the United Kingdom Technology (ICT) Incubation Services, Prometric testing NIT was incorporated as youths were trained in owned by a Vincentian, training to the public, accreditation, and is also where young aspiring Len Sutherland. Through company number 14 of starting with three entrepreneurs with good ICT, using the Microsoft a CompTIA Authorized 2007 under the St. this alliance, staff computer labs. The business ideas are given Unlimited Potential Academy.

Vincent and the members were trained, Manager of Data the nurturing and (MUP) curriculum.

Grenadines Companies and began delivering Processing Department 2010 - Present support in ensuring that In order to fulfil the Act of 1994 under the the ideas can materialize POETA mandate, name St. Vincent and the partnerships were In July 2010, the and flourish or that the Grenadines National SVGNCTI signed a existing business can formed with various Centre of Technological evolve and grow into a Youth-centred entities in short-term training Innovation Inc contract with the Centre successful entity.

SVG, namely the (SVGNCTI). This for British Teachers Ministry of Education coincided with its (CfBT) Education Trust; Continued on Page 18.

Adult and Continuing relocation to its present location upstairs the Banana Growers’ Association building on Graduating students proudly displaying their Sharpe Street, certificates from one of our training programmes.

Kingstown. The location houses four computer labs, an online testing room and offices.

Mr. Colin Bacchus was appointed as manager to head the institution, with a Board of Directors appointed to oversee the overall operations. With an articulated vision that seeks to be the institute of choice for technical, Participants of the POETA Microsoft Unlimited professional, career Participants of the 2013 Summer School Programme.

Potential Training Programme.

18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

NCTI moving ahead in challenging times organization. Some people could now do a THE NATIONAL CENTRE of distance course, or a Technological Innovation diploma or a degree (NCTI), formerly the online,” said Charles.

National Institute of This has resulted in a Technology (NIT), was dive in terms of the established in 2002, demand for the courses mandated to deliver offered by the NCTI, affordable ICT training to although persons Vincentians in order to overseas studying still bridge the digital divide. have to refer to the NCTI This year, the organization for advice. Burke is celebrating its 12th acknowledged, however, anniversary, and THE that his organization still VINCENTIAN sat down with has a role to play. “The one of the founding courses that we offer are members of NCTI, Charles critical in terms of Burke, currently the network infrastructure, Network Administrator and hardware and software Senior Instructor at NCTI, maintenance,” Burke to get an overall idea assured. concerning the objectives, The organization has challenges and plans for so far offered courses to the Centre. civil servants, the public Burke explained that and private sector, with initially, when NCTI and overall success rate started in 2002, they of 70% certification. Most began with some basic of the funding to keep courses. “Then we got NCTI afloat comes from into some of the advance the government, and courses. These advance international courses included CCNA organizations such as and MCSE. Over the last UNESCO and the 4-5 years, more training European Union, while opportunities have been individuals desirous of open to Vincentians, and obtaining a higher this has proved a learning in ICT are challenge for the required to pay their own

by KENVILLE HORNE

money. With a decline in spending power, lack of finance to cover the cost of the courses has also become a problem. Hence one of the major objectives of the organization, that was highlighted by Burke, is the need for NCTI to become self-sustainable, “in that we could make enough money to run the organization without having to depend on government, or other funding agencies”. Burke said another objective is that “I would like us (NCTI) to become the driving force for ICT; we must be able to offer courses that could allow Vincentians to be marketable worldwide”.

The senior instructor hailed the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programme, which teaches students to manipulate computers as a good start for young people; but for the youths out of school with a computer, “they should at least make money”.

He said NCTI would be venturing into an

incubation project that would see them bringing in young businesses for training, and giving them the necessary support to make their businesses viable.

“Whether they need training, support like record keeping, we would provide that, we could nurture them,” said Burke. The cut off period for training is three years.

Currently, NCTI is involved in a one-month programme that would see them training 700 secondary school teachers in the use of ICT tools in the classroom to improve the teaching/learning experience in Information Technology.

The program is being sponsored by telecommunication company Digicel.

Training ais being provided in the use of the Windows 8.1 Operating System, Microsoft Office 2013 (including Excel and Power Point) ACER Classroom Management and Productivity Tools.

Burke said the

programme is going well thus far, and “the teachers found the training quite useful.”

NCTI is anticipating a project that would see 1000 Vincentians trained in ICT, and Burke is appealing to the general public to get in touch with NCTI for guidance.

“Look out, listen, be alert, so if a opportunity comes where you could get it free or almost free,

Network Administrator and Senior Instructor at NCTI, Charles Burke. you need to look out for those opportunities,” Burke concluded.

THE VINCENTIAN wishes NCTI a happy 12th anniversary.

History of SVGNCTI Continued from Page 17.

SVGNCTI currently offers ABE Level 4 Certificate and Level 5 Diploma courses in the following areas: Business Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing Management, Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management.

The Level 4 Certificate is equivalent to 1st year of university, whereas Level 5 Diploma is equivalent to 2nd year of university. In addition, Graduation time for BCS IT courses such as the 2013 Summer BCS Certificate in IT, School Programme BCS Diploma in IT and students.

BCS Professional Degree in IT are also offered.

The SVGNCTI is looking at the growing trends in ICT, and intends to focus on the mobile network, including application development for the mobile market.

SVGNCTI is cognizant of increased interest in its training courses by the general public as well as interest from skilled persons seeking to become part-time instructors. The SVGNCTI continues to utilize local experienced instructors to deliver all its courses, while maintaining the highest standards of tutoring and course delivery.

There is certainty that within its 12 years of operation, the SVGNCTI has provided quality service and support in ICT training to thousands of Vincentians as an internationally accredited training provider and testing centre. As a result, we have accomplished our mission: “To provide ready access to global benchmarks in end-user computer skills training programmes for all Vincentians that will enable their acquisition of the necessary ICT skills and certification, thereby resulting in narrowing the digital divide and facilitating social inclusion”. SVGNCTI’s goal is to develop its use of IT to increase alternatives, resources and accessibility to training for its students. In addition to providing targeted training, and cultivating relationships with government departments and the local business community, SVGNCTI seeks to fulfil its vision to facilitate the expansion, strengthening and sustainability of the ICT sector, thus contributing to the socio-economic development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 19.

NCTI Testimonials of being a part of this program was the fact that it allowed me to study long distance without missing out on the classroom experience.

I highly recommend SVGNCTI to persons interested in pursuing their diploma.

Festus Penniston -------------------------------

well informed and very supportive to ensure your dreams are realized."

BEING ENROLLED in the BCS program has assisted Kahalena Hamilton, BSc me in obtaining the Information Technology, position of Business CompTIA A+ Certified.

Solutions Executive with Digicel. I will be continuing the Professional Graduate Diploma.

Crystal Bynoe I would highly Crystal Bynoe ------------------------------recommend SVGNCTI to others, in particular to LET ME SAY, I am so happy those that cannot afford Campus University to be a student at AS AN AMBITIOUS young studies and have a SVGNCTI. I enjoyed every woman, the desire arose passion for learning. second of my time spent for me to further my while in the classroom.

I studies. I needed a Silvon Scott program that would allow learned a lot about computers.

All my me to earn my diploma questions were answered, ------------------------------and work right here in which made using the St.Vincent. SVGNCTI was "I CHOOSE to invest in my computer more my number one choice. future by becoming a interesting.

I wish to thank SVGNCTI had a wide the management and staff certified PC Technician. variety of courses to of SVGNCTI. Please keep SVGNCTI provided choose from at very up this education drive me with quality training affordable prices, and the and support I needed, for efficiency of the staff was that you all are doing. the best price. appreciated.

Their lecturers are Former ICDL Student One of the good things

Festus Penniston

Silvon Scott

20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 21.

Training from SVGNCTI THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LIMITED (IADC) has been quite fortunate to have been the recipient of training for its employees from the SVGNCTI. On two (2) occasions, the IADC has sought the assistance of the SVGNCTI in the training of a number of its employees in various aspects of A tutor explaining the different programmes on Microsoft Office.

On the first occasion, for offer at SVGNCTI. a period that ran from 22nd November, 2013, another sixteen (16) January, 2013 to 28th February, 2013, employees from the IADC participated nine (9) of the IADC’s employees in similar training modules. participated in the following training From feedback given by the modules: Microsoft Word — Advanced, participants, the training received has Microsoft Excel — Intermediate, helped them tremendously, and has Microsoft Excel — Advanced, Microsoft gone a long way in enhancing their Publisher — Intermediate, Microsoft performance on the job. The employees PowerPoint — Intermediate and all had very high praise for the Microsoft PowerPoint — Advanced. On efficient manner in which the the second occasion, for a period that facilitators delivered the training. ran from 16th October, 2013 to 22nd

V

22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

News

IMF approves US$6.4m to help SVG meet „urgent balance-of-payments need‰ housing, and agriculture as a result of severe floods in December 2013,” said Min Zhu, IMF deputy managing director and acting chair after THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY the Executive Board’s decision.

Fund (IMF) says its Executive “Emergency relief and high Board has approved a rehabilitation costs have disbursement of US$6.4 million weakened the fiscal position for St. Vincent and the and created an urgent balance Grenadines to help the country of payments need at a time meet an “urgent balance-ofwhen the economy is striving payments need,” due to severe to recover from previous flooding and landslides in natural disasters and the December last year that killed at global economic downturn,” he least seven people and caused added. “Rehabilitation and massive damage to reconstruction spending is infrastructure, housing and expected to widen the fiscal agriculture. deficit this year.”

The Washington-based Mindful of St. Vincent and financial institution said last the Grenadines’ “high and Friday that the money will be growing public debt,” Zhu said drawn equally from its Rapid that the Dr. Ralph E. Credit Facility (RCF) and the Gonsalves-led administration Rapid Financing Instrument has reiterated its intention to (RFI) at US$3.2 million each. rely mainly on grants and “St. Vincent and the concessional resources to Grenadines suffered massive finance the recovery. damages to infrastructure, At the same time, he said

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

the government will step up efforts to mobilize budgetary resources by increasing revenue collection, containing the wage bill and reducing transfers to state-owned enterprises.

“Looking ahead, the authorities remain committed to securing a sustainable fiscal position,” Zhu said.

“To this end, they intend to generate a primary surplus of at least 2 percent of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) in the medium term to ensure that the debt-to-GDP ratio is put on a declining path,” he added.

The IMF deputy managing director also said that the Vincentian government is also “stepping up structural reforms” to enhance resilience to natural disasters and climate change, and to ensure strong and lasting growth.

He said the administration is developing programs to

improve emergency responses and to strengthening physical infrastructure.

Additionally, Zhu said efforts are ongoing to enhance the business environment, improve access to the country by air, and streamline customs clearance.

“The authorities also intend to carry out civil service and pension reforms, which will boost competitiveness and employment,” he said.

The IMF said the RCF was created under the newlyestablished Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust (PRGT), and provides rapid financial assistance for low-income countries with an urgent balance-of-payments need.

It also said the RFI provides the same type of financial support for all member-countries.

The IMF said, while neither requires any “explicit

MF Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu program-based conditionality or review,” economic policies are expected to address the “underlying balance-ofpayments difficulties to support broader policy objectives, including growth.”

In the case of the RCF, this means poverty reduction.

Financing under the RCF carries zero interest (at least until end-2014), has a grace period of 5.5 years, and a final maturity of 10 years, the IMF said.

It also said financing under the RFI is at the adjusted rate of charge, currently 1.08 percent, has a grace period of 3.25 years, and a final maturity of 5 years.

V Creating a living memory

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 23.

People

Ben Harrison – International Correspondent

Candace Laidlow has established a ‘back-to-school’ bursary award in memory of her three ‘grandmothers’.

EVERYONE has special people in their lives, whose caring, love and guidance have been positive influences on and contributions to the person they are today. That person may have been a parent, grandparent, or other close relative; a teacher, pastor, medical professional or just a great friend who is no longer with us. In all probability, this special person also contributed to the community and society.

How do we say “Thank you” in such a way that their memory and good deeds will live on and continue to be a force of positive change for others?

Here is how one Vincentian born woman living in Canada has answered that question.

Candice Laidlow, who was born in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and now lives in Toronto, had the continuous influence of three “grandmothers” who were great believers of service towards their family and community.

She was raised by her grandmother,

Venner sees ÂOpportunity for lasting changeÊ “We are at a critical point in our economic history as we try to SIR DWIGHT VENNER, restructure, rebalance Governor of the Eastern and transform our Caribbean Central Bank economies to achieve a (ECCB), has described sustained level of the last five years in the economic growth which sub-region as having will reduce the level of provided the foundation unemployment for changes. particularly among the “The last five years youth,” Sir Dwight have brought us face to indicated in his annual face with the reality of report of 2013/2014. time,” Sir Dwight And in a call for outlined in his address to adjustments in the the opening of a ceremony approach to ‘doing to mark the changeover of business’ in the subChairmanship of the region, the Governor, Sir Dwight Venner, Monetary Council of the who will celebrate his Governor of the ECCB. ECCB, held in St. 25th year in that Vincent, July 25, 2014. position come December For Sir Dwight, the present offers 2014, used a sporting reference to “an opportunity to bring about lasting drive home his point. He noted change.”

Brazil’s humiliation at the hands of The Governor highlighted the high Germany in the recent FIFA World cost of government, the tax base to Cup as being the result of Germany’s government expenditure, the small systematic approach to their quest for domestic market for the private glory. sector, high energy and food costs, He pointed to the emphasis on coand the skill sets of the economically operation within the Organisation of active population as factors Eastern Caribbean States, but contributing to low productivity levels indicated that “we have not fully within the banking unit. exploited the benefits of these As far as he was concerned, “this is arrangements.” our zero hour.

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

(L-R): Frances Haywood Joseph, Miriam Ross Laidlow and Edmay Bramble Wilson, on whose names the bursary is named.

Francis Hayward Joseph, who died ten years ago, during the first and very formative ten years of her life.

To perpetuate the memory of these three women, and their demonstration of service towards their family and society at large, Candice has created the first annual ‘Frances Haywood Joseph, Miriam Ross Laidlow & Edmay Bramble Wilson Bursary’.

This is a back-to-school bursary to financially assist young adults within St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Primary and secondary school age students are eligible to apply, and those selected will receive EC$ 500 each. Applicants are required to submit a 2-page (primary school) or 4page (secondary school) essay in order to be considered.

Submissions should be made to Candice Laidlow via email <candicelaidlow@gmail.com>. For

more details, you should visit www.facebook.com/mygrandmasbursar y or telephone Candice in Toronto at (416) 819-7314.

Deadline for submission of essay and application is Monday, August 18, 2014.

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24. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A thin line between love and hate Dear George,

Dear Thin Line, I’M CAUGHT up between love and hate. I’m with this guy for almost 6 months now, and he has the heart to come to tell me this girl he was fooling around with before he met me is pregnant for him, and she just found out because she has an irregular period. This was just the beginning. His ex is also pregnant with his child. What do you think I should do? I love him, but I hate the situation.

A Thin Line.

The real issue here is that you seem to be in a one-way love affair with your boyfriend. You may have been attracted to him and even fell for him, but I am questioning his sincerity and love for you. Six months, although a short time for a relationship, is along enough for him to prove to you that he does love you, and is prepared to continue proving that love to you by his actions

thereafter. In establishing a relationship, you would want to make sure that your partner is entering with a clean slate, and with the kind of history you have described your boyfriend has, I am not sure you would want to build on that foundation. The baggage your boyfriend is bringing to the table is enough to prevent your relationship from taking off as it should. It is not too late to nip this in the bud and moved on.

George

Is she seeing someone else?

Dear George, FOR THE 5 years I have been with my wife, I have come to know her very well. Lately, she has not been responding like she usually does in bed, and it has me very concerned. She used to be the noisy type in bed and very innovative, but

now she just lies there and hardly ever makes a sound. This is not her, and it begs the question who is the other guy she is seeing. She has to be interested in someone else, hence why she has lost interest in me. I have not asked her about it because I know she will tell me what I want

to hear, which is there is no other guy. I am wondering how to approach this.

Concerned Dear Concerned, Usually when such a drastic change in behaviour has taken

place, there is an underlying reason. The reason you have alluded to may not necessarily be the case. Your wife could have deep-rooted unresolved issues that have to do with you, and therefore has gone into her shell and space until you decide to deal with whatever they are.

There needs to be discussion, and the sooner the better. Go to her and let her know of your observations, and that you are willing to first begin examining whether the problem is with you. This approach will undoubtedly give her the opening she may have been waiting for to address the issues affecting her. If it gets too complicated after that initial discussion, then I advise that you both go see a qualified counsellor for further help.

George

She doesn’t belong to him Dear George, I AM REALLY madly and truly in love with this woman. The thing is she is married, and the man she is married to is someone I know very well - not my friend, but I know him. I have seen the way she looks at me, and when she gets a chance to shake my hand, she would do so as though she wants to tell me something. George, I know this woman has deep feelings for me, and she knows I have deep feelings for her. She does not belong to this man she is with, and I am struggling with the decision whether I want to take things further. My heart’s dream would be to sleep with her and let her know how I really feel about her. After that, I am prepared to let the chips fall where they may.

Maybe you would have an opinion on this. If you do, I want to hear it.

Feelings.

Dear Feelings, Having intimate feelings for another person is something that may come naturally, but at some point, sound reasoning has to be applied. This woman you speak of is married, and that being the case, you ought to leave things alone. She already made her decision in marrying the man she wants to be with, and until that union is dissolved and she chooses you to be her replacement partner, you should leave let alone. Let her respect you for not interfering with her marriage and making things more complicated for her.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Digestive disorders will be a result of family squabbles. You will benefit through hidden assets and property investments. Avoid conflicts with in-laws or other family members. Now is the time for completing hobbies that you've been working on for a long time.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Find out exactly what's expected of you and you'll be surprised to find out how capable you are. Sign up for courses or join fitness clubs. Based on your excitement, serious-minded individuals will be more than interested in backing your ideas. Travel opportunities must be taken advantage of.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Try to take some time to listen to their complaints, and in turn, do something to appease them. Don't offer to pay for others. Voice your opinions and contribute to the de bate. Advancement can be yours if you are assertive in your approach.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Insurance pay outs, tax rebates, or just plain luck. A long, quiet walk alone may help you sort out your thoughts. Avoid joint ventures and steer clear of groups that want you to contribute financial assistance. Friends and relatives may not understand your needs.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas. Get involved in jobs that require creative input. You can win points with both peers and superiors. Do things you enjoy instead of being a chameleon.

Have a heart-to-heart talk with family and find out what the problems are.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your compassion will be appreciated more than you can imagine. Be sure to get involved in self improvement programs that will bring you in contact with interesting people. You must watch your tendency to spend whatever you make.

You must not lead someone on or show interest in them for the wrong reasons.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Don't let others put unreasonable demands on you. Short trips to visit others will do the whole family a world of good. Your involvement in interest groups may bring you popularity. Your diplomacy will be of utmost importance this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Try spending the day catching up on any responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Don't confront the situation if you don't feel you can keep your cool. You must act quickly. Matters pertaining to work must be completed before you leave.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Don't go out of your way, and don't let these unexpected guests cost you money. Opportunities will develop through those you encounter while attending organizational events.

Problems with female members of your family may play on your emotions. If you can't get ahead in the company you're with, perhaps it's time to move on.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Do not confront situations unless you are sure you have a good understanding of the dilemma. Take part in stimulating debates that will allow you to show off your intelligence. Lovers may prove unworthy of your affection. Travel may change your attitudes with regard to your philosophy.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Family talks may get a little combative.

You can make wonderful contributions to any organization that you join. You can make it up to them later. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will learn a great deal from the foreigners you meet. You will be in an overly generous mood this week. Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. You will be able to close any deals successfully.

ACROSS

48. Woodwind 51. Hospital 1.Burrowed diagnostic 4. __ black tool (abbr.)

7. Source of poi 53. Nursing 11. Oil cartel course acronym (abbr.)

13. Bard’s 57. Penalty “before” indicator 14. Baldwin of 58. Lacking “The Aviator” rosy 15. Papa’s cheeks partner 59. Marathon 16. Sought unit elected 60. Small child office 61. That gal 17. Sentry’s call 62. League for 18. Greek letter the Eagles 20. Schuss (abbr.)

22. Jewelry box item DOWN 25. Caesar’s “and others” 1.Champagne (2 wds.) producer __ Perignon 28. Misfortune 29. Greek letter 2. “__ Lazy River” 30. More kind (2 wds.)

32. Bunny 3. Jewel maneuver 4. Joshua’s 33. Elderly battle 35. Plaything 5. Big Band __ 36. Late hour 6. Billfold items (2 wds., 7. Pacific abbr.) paradise 39. “__ It Be” (Beatles song) 8. __ king (2 wds.)

41. One, in 9. Aunt or French uncle 42. French (abbr.) “she” 10. Trick or 43. Resells treat mo. tickets 45. Chem. rm. 12. Mob VIP 47. Hilo garland 19. Dip in liquid 21. Documen-

tary maker Burns 22. Pioneer Daniel 23. Drive back 24. Valleys’ opposites 26. Behave badly (2 wds.)

27. Jaworski and Trotsky 28. Question word 31. Seeded bread 34. Turn down 37. Declare to be true 38. “Cry __ River” (2 wds.)

40. Edison’s initials 44. Neeson of “Schindler’s List” 46. Autos made in Munich 48. Frequently, in verse

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 25.

49. Journalist Nellie __ 50. Hardwood tree 52. Fan’s cry 54. Author Anais 55. Landon of politics 56. __ Aviv

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26. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

‘All That Glitters’ for Labour Day “We’re hoping to get the kind of support to do it,” said band leader and designer Wesley Millington in a VINCENTIAN interview, AFTER a two-year hiatus in disclosing that the band the adult section because has “entered a of lack of financial partnership” with the support, the VincentianBrooklyn, New Yorkowned Mas Productions based shipping company, Unlimited mas band Standard Shippers, returns this year on owned by Biabou native Brooklyn’s Eastern Gideon ‘Fessy’ Yorke.

Parkway Labour Day “We’re just looking for Parade ,with ‘All That enough support to get Glitters’. people interested in the Story and photos by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

band, to get a Vincentian band back on the Parkway,” he added.

“We’re hoping for the kind of support to make this thing work.

“A number of people said they missed the band from Eastern Parkway,” continued Millington, who hails from Sion Hill, “so we’re trying to see if we can go back on the Parkway.”

Though the adult section was suspended in the last two years,

Millington said the band still participated in the spectacular West Indian American Carnival on Labour Day, the first Monday in September, with a children’s section.

This year, the veteran mas producer once again hopes to impress masqueraders and onlookers with ‘All That Glitters’.

“It’s going to look a little different from the other bands that are up here (in New York),” Millington said.

“We do our own costumes,” he said, stating that many mas bands import their

Kelsie Dove-Williams displays the adult section ‘Turquoise’.

costumes or have them “manufactured.”

Millington, who just returned from home from the just-concluded Vincy Mas 2014, said another veteran Vincentian mas producer, Ricardo “Puzzle” Grant, will be assisting him in producing the band.

Grant — a mas producer with SVG Players International, which placed second in the Band of the Year Competition for Vincy Mas 2014 — returns after a four-year break.

‘All That Glitters’ will feature nine sections: Six adults (five females and

Wesley Millington, Leader of Mas Productions Unlimited, says his return is an effort to return a Vincentian presence on the Parkway.

a male) and three children (two girls and a boy).

The adult sections are: Ruby, Emerald, Pearl, Turquoise, Amethist and Onyx (male). The children sections are: Topaz, Amber and Saphire (boy).

Millington expects up to 100 masqueraders in the adult section and about 50 in the children section.

He said a contingent of masqueraders from the New York Belize Committee, who he said has never abandoned him, will again complement ‘All That Glitters’.

Mas Productions Unlimited is located at 159 E, 93rd St., between Winthrop St. and Rutland Road in Brooklyn.

For more information, call (866) MASBKNY or The adult section ‘Ruby’ Millington at (718) 759displayed by Jahyra 7766.

Millington.

Union Island/London Summer School 2014 opens The Union Island/London Summer School got off to a start on 4th August, at Stephanie Browne Primary School, in Clifton and will run for 2 weeks. It caters for 70 children this year, aged 5 years -16 years. The school is being organised in conjunction with Mrs John from the Mary Hutchinson Primary School, Mrs James from the Stephanie Browne Primary School and The Union Island Support Group London.

Morning sessions will focus on English, Maths, Health Education and Science. Afternoon sessions will be dedicated to extra-curricular activities such as sports, drama, steel pan, drumming and Arts and Craft.

The chief participants are pupils who have failed their annual examinations. The programme would help them to improve their reading skills, build on their self-esteem and personal development, so that when they return to school in September,

they would be motivated to work to the best of their ability.

The school will also remember the late Danny Scrubb, ex- policeman and accountant, who was the chairperson of the Union Island Support Group London. He was one of the main funders of the past Union Island Summer Schools. He was also passionate about Union Island’s culture. Sadly, Danny passed away last October. He will be remembered for his generosity, commitment and love of the youths on Union Island.

The organisers are grateful to their sponsors so far: the Ministry of Education ,Union Island Support Group London, National Insurance Scheme, Greaves Supermarket, Martha & Esther Hutchinson (Canada), Union Island Cultural Association (Canada), Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union, Terrene John and Jean Marc Sallie.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 27.

SVGFF womenÊs football programme gets high acclaim

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT FIFA DEVELOPMENT OFFICER for the South Eastern Caribbean, Howard McIntosh, has left the shores of St. Vincent and the Grenadines highly impressed with the efforts of the SVG Football Federation in spreading and developing women’s football.

Speaking to THE VINCENTIAN at the end of a 3-day visit here, McIntosh said that, from the evidence, the SVGFF appeared to be on the right track with its programme.

“I am definitely happy with what I saw…..to me they look serious about women’s football, and I clearly saw that by them having the final of a competition last Saturday”, he said, as he took his eyes away from his computer screen temporarily.

McIntosh said that the

plans as provided by SVGFF show that there are things in store for that sphere of the game to be given some attention.

“What am happy about, especially here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, is that you had a women’s final; you are going to have a club championship for women’s football; you have the grassroots for girls starting in August, and all this around women’s football. And it speaks well of the Federation and its plans for the development of the women’s football Game here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

So now, they will just have to execute whatever plans they have…..but so far, you see the activity, you see the excitement, and we love what we see”.

FIFA has stipulated that 15% or one hundred thousand

dollars from its FAP Programme must be spent on the development of the Women’s Game, and while seeing the value of such a decision, McIntosh thinks that it does not take much for that money to be liquidated since, according to him, the cost of sending national teams overseas Women football coaches in requires a lot a practical session. more than that sometimes. will continue to Last week, the SVGFF provide hosted the first FIFA sponsored coaching course for assistance to women coaches, with just over member Federations for twenty participants taking both part. infrastructure McIntosh said that FIFA L-R: FIFA Development Officer for SE and the development of Caribbean Howard McIntosh and SVGFF President Venold Coombs in discussion at personnel through courses office. and workshops.

Grenadines, once FIFA is The FIFA representative also satisfied with their work. before, most coaches were disclosed that funds for the During his visit here, he never given the opportunity.

Goal Projects which started at met with the Executive of the Because of this, I grasp the US400,000 and later increased SVGFF, auditors KMPG, and opportunity, and we have to US500,00, will see a further visited the site of Goal Project several coach development 20% increase next year.

ONE-a training ground and and grass root courses for the He admits that the Projects auditorium - at the Brighton coaches; also the first ever as undertaken by some Playing Field, as well as female referee session,” Federations have not always attended the Inter-league Ollivierre said. been “smooth sailing”, but women’s final at Campden “We are also looking to since it’s a “large amount of Park and the opening of the change the philosophy of the money” invested, the South East Nine-a-side players, because when we programme requires a great football tournament at the leave here, it appears like we deal of monitoring.

Stubbs Playing Field. are going to participate and “It’s a major investment, so President Venold Coombs enjoy ourselves instead of I play a major role in the expressed satisfaction with the going to compete to win, and monitoring; but sometimes visit and the meetings, and that approach I believe must that role is played through a Keith Ollivierre, Technical was positive of future support change. Since last year consultant that we hire, who Director SVGFF in their quest to improve the August, we had internal is on the island to assist in the structure and programmes of workshops with the coaches, aim, because over the past monitoring of the project”. the SVGFF. and showed them that if we twelve years, we haven’t As FIFA Development “It was a very fruitful visit, want to move from one point qualified for this tournament. Officer for the South Eastern and based on our discussions, to the next, this is what we I think we have the talent; it’s Caribbean, McIntosh pointed I am confident that SVG need to do. We are also just up to the coaches now to out that there are many Football is heading in the looking at marketing the set the standard of what we challenges faced in the right direction……..the national teams, and in doing are hoping to achieve,” execution of his dutie,s but affiliates just have to be so, we cannot look to market Ollivierre explained. When sees his role as “promote and patient and trust this the same kind of players every asked about the overseas develop football, and assist executive, and I tell you we year. We are looking at based players, Ollivierre is of and facilitate the will do wonders”, a beaming bringing in some youngsters, the view, while not Federations”.

Coombs said. so that we could look at a overlooking the overseas McIntosh believes that The president also different setup for the next players, the direction is to try FIFA, with a major supporting mentioned that his executive World Cup qualifiers,” develop more of our local role by CONCACAF, was was gearing up for Goal Ollivierre pointed out. players in keeping with the doing a great job to spread Project TWO as they seek to “As we look ahead, we have system and the direction we and develop the game in the put the finishing touches to a young team now preparing want to go. region, and is confident more Goal Project ONE. to qualify for CANCAF Gold courses and projects will come Cup which will be our first I.B.A.ALLEN to St. Vincent and the

Ollivierre targets Development AFTER BEING IN the post of acting as the Technical Director for almost a year now, Keith Ollivierre believes taking a different approach is the way to go if there is to be a change in a positive way with footballers and coaches.

“As a national player the first thing I am looking to put in place is grass root development, and invest heavily in that aspect, as well as in female football,” Ollivierre said. “I have put together a long term plan which is based on a particular model; also a plan for 2013 to 2015 to the Federation, and how we are going to achieve certain things in terms of grass root development, female football and national football,” Ollivierre stressed.

“I know from the onset, we have to change certain philosophy and the way the local coaches see things or approach things in terms of development, and try to give them a chance to fail so that they will be able to rise and make the correction,” he lamented. There is a thought, that we in St Vincent, or we as football coaches cannot take the team beyond a particular point; but I could say that

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28. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Windwards to name players for contracts

submitted to the WICB for the upcoming restructured West Indies first class cricket season.

Reports say these twenty players who would be selected based on rankings will be assessed to see who qualify for the one year contracts in the sum of USD1500.00 per month beginning in September.

The West Indies Cricket Board had recently adopted a franchise system by which the six participating first-class teams could select players from all over the region, as the Pybus Report recommended.

Each side can retain 10 local players and can complete their quota of 15 by recruiting players from other countries Sunil Ambris, in the region, according to reports.

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT Commentators and those with knowledge of the game THERE COULD BE five or six Vincentians in a squad of twenty believe that talented batsman Sunil Ambris, his older to be named by Windward brother Romel Currency, leftIslands cricket selectors to be

arm pacers Delorn Alston Bobb Delorn Johnson Johnson and Kenroy Peters as regional well as possibly left-arm firstclass competition, taking spinning allrounder Alston 18 wickets in his seven Bobb and Miles Bascombe matches at just over 26 apiece. could be in the squad for the The 26 year old former professionalised restructured West Indies A team pacer domestic competition. represented the Trinidad Red Peters had an outstanding Steel in the CPL and was year for the Windwards in the selected again in 2014 but 2014 regional season when he owing to what officials say is a captured 40 wickets in helping hairline fracture in his right them to finish second behind foot had to pull out of this Jamaica in the four day final year’s tournament. for the Headley/Weekes Currency who made a Trophy. comeback this year to the The diminutive southpaw had a career best 7-36 against Windwards set after attending Trinidad, and then grabbed 6- the UWI representing that 66 against Jamaica including organisation at the regional level for a few years provided a hattrick in the final at the stability in the Windwards Beausejour Stadium.

The 32 year old Peters who batting by chalking up three represented the St. Lucia half centuries in his aggregate Zouks in the inaugural of 381 runs and occupied the Caribbean Premier League crease for prolonged periods. has been ignored this year by The 30 year old Bobb who the Darren was given a look-in by the Sammy led selectors in 2014, despite unit. picking up 12 wickets at just Johnson over 21 in his four matches was talked appeared only to be recognised about as a as a stopgap player being senior West called upon to replace the Indies injured Shane Shillingford prospect, but during the season, according fell down the to the opinion of analysts. pecking order A left-arm orthodox spinner through with subtle variations it is injuries and believed that the former sporadic form. Windwards U19 captain will This saw him command a more solid place in having what the Windwards line up with many what is expected to be a considered a different selection personnel below par and policies. season in the Young talented batsman,

Kenroy Peters Ambris who was mystifyingly ignored for the 2013 season arrived with a bang in 2014 with a century on debut against Guyana and a second against Jamaica in the second innings of the final. In all he totalled 468 runs to be the second leading Windwards batter behind Devon Smith (539). Ambris is currently a member of the Zouks team in the CPL and has seen limited opportunities to display his talent.

Some are of the view that wicketkeeper Lindon James has a better than faint chance of getting one of the coveted contracts to “eat sleep and play cricket” despite being short of runs.

James the St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ captain has been criticised for underperforming with the bat and being average at times behind the stumps with the gloves.

One source suggested to the VINCENTIAN that the fall off in the player’s performance could be possibly attributed to an injury which he may have failed to report.

In the 2014 regional first class season James seen by many as better than average with the bat could only muster 155 runs in his eleven innings with a highest score of 62*. He was the second best gloveman in terms of dismissals with 25one less than Jamaica’s Carlton Baugh.

Dragons bounce past Titans DRAGONS COMFORTABLE defeated Titans 44 to 18 in the Vita Malt Bequia Basketball tournament last weekend at the Clive Tannis Hard Court.

Leading scorer for Dragons was Kirsty Bailey with 14 points, 7 rebounds, 1 block; while for Titans, Kelroy Duncan led with 10 points in the under 16 division.

In other results, Hornets defeat Rockets 23 to 19. Leading scorer for Hornets was Kenus Tally with 12 points. Leading scorer for Rockets, Omario Louie, had 10 points. Dragons defeat Hornets 32 to 24. Leading scorer for Dragons Kirsty Bailey with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist.

Leading scorer for Hornets Kensu Tally had 7 points.

In the First Division, Rising Stars defeated Warriaz 71 to 65. Leading scorer for Rising Stars was Kirstin

Lampkin with 18 points, 18 rebounds, 1 assist. Leading scorer for Warriaz was Warrican Myers with 18 points.

Duke defeated East Blazers 74 to 59.

Leading scorer for Duke Lamont Gordon had 21 points, 24 rebounds, 2 assists, and leading scorer for East Blazers Cosmus Hackshaw with 19 points. Warriaz defeated Wizards 67 to 60. Leading scorer for Warriaz was Warrican Myers with 20 points, 20 rebounds, 3 assists and leading scorer for Wizards Jason Hutchins with 15 points.

In the Second Division, Blazing Heat beat Young Duke 68 to 46.

Blazing Heat leading scorer was Denroy Hutchins with 28 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 blocks. Young Duke was led by Jadeja Ollivierre with 17 points.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. 29.

Sports

President Coombs upbeat President Coombs focused on the future.

always said that my presidency must be remembered for its THE RECENT hosting of development another FIFA coaching thrust……and from what course is being seen as you are seeing, no one tell -tale signs that can deny that,” Coombs football here is on the said in a serious voice. right path.

Coombs said that his This is the view of St. objective, besides having Vincent and the the senior national team Grenadines Football returning to the heights Federation-SVGFFof being the second president Venold Coombs ranked team in the who made this comment Caribbean, is to have to THE VINCENTIAN, programmes which as he looked back at the would turn out young recently held four-day talent that will sustain FIFA Women’s Coaching national success.

Course.

“Our Technical Coombs, whose Director Keith Ollivierre presidency has been and National Coach fraught with controversy, Cornie Huggins are two said that his intention is knowledgeable past to develop the sport in footballers, and they, every way possible, with along with other no category being left members of the coaching out. staff like ‘Butu’ Charles, “You see, we had the another former top D licence Course, and defender, will do the now we had this work to build our Women’s Course, and all programme”. this points to our Coombs said that his commitment towards executive will continue to development…….I have work with national

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Integration sporting wise St. Vincent and the Grenadines stands to benefit from the English tour to the Caribbean from April 2015. Hosting an English team comes as a major injection to that country’s economy. Fortunes have fallen in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors in some Caribbean territories.

Tourism has become the region’s lifeblood. No wonder that it has come to a bid situation when entertaining English cricketers.

The three Test series begins at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. Everyone will be hoping that the nightmares of the aborted test at that same venue in 2009 will be forgotten.

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States will do well with the influx of visitors.

That will strengthen the Eastern Caribbean dollar and delay suggestions of a devaluation in the currency.

Grenada is the venue for the second Test, and that is another fillip for the OECS. Proximity to St. Vincent and the Grenadines might be an incentive for Vincentians to join the throng to the Spice Isle.

That will be an additional boost to the EC currency. Grenadians make no secret of their love for Vincentian beef. Livestock owners might be encouraged to start preparing a herd to coincide with the arrival of the Barmy Army for the April 21 to 25 showdown. By then, it will be sizzling Caribbean weather. That will be 36 years after the emergence of a military coup in the English speaking Caribbean which came March 13, 1979.

The experiment collapsed in dramatic fashion four years later, and ushered in an era of Caribbean political outlook. The lessons of that period reverberate throughout the world.

As much as we may want to sweep that episode under the rugs, the mystique still haunts the Grenadian landscape. It is intriguing for Vincentians who follow the scenario.

There are perhaps untold stories of that era, and tales that are still part of the cryptic.

Caribbean people continue to show resolve.

Grenada was devastated by hurricane in 2004, and has rebounded with a speed that testifies to their depth of character.

Vincentians played a critical role in Grenada’s recovery process. The landscape was remodelled and with some reliance on Vincentian plant life.

With the OECS deepening its resolve, the foundation is being set for the integration to continue. No one can blame the politicians for not making an effort. They may not be as decisive as the ordinary citizens who don’t have to get any majority approval.

At the same time, Caribbean people are quick to assert their nationhood. Grenadians will boast of Karani James. He has evolved as a World Class 400 Metre specialist.

One expects Jamaica to be at the medal table. It is not uncommon for Trinidad and Tobago to feature on the world stage. They have established that platform.

Barbados does not hide its intention of wanting to be a force to be reckoned with in athletics, or any sports for that matter.

While Grenada has been a giant in athletics at the Windward Islands level, that they have produced a crop of quality quarter milers is tribute to their consistency.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines will do well to emulate Grenada in track and field. We share some values, so there is no shame in following the trend that Grenada is setting.

We might not accomplish success when the next Commonwealth Games are staged in Australia, but it is time that our country is in the quest for a medal.

Our athletes have the skill. Coaches and administrators have the will. Governments and the population will cherish the thrill of seeing their nation’s flag being paraded at an international event by your athlete having conquered the world.

coaches because he feels the past national players, once they get the right opportunities and teachings, can develop into quality coaches.

The president said that the future looks bright for SVG football, and is confident that notwithstanding the plethora of negative publicity which the SVGFF has faced over the last twelve months, things will move upwards.

“A number of things have been written and said about me, but I am not easily distracted…my objective for coming back into football is to contribute and not to get anything……I am a simple person…..and I have not changed from that….I wish that some of what happened never did …….but we must move on and put our

energies and efforts into the development of the game and not pull it down”.

The SVGFF will this weekend engage in another effort to boost its public image, with the presentation of prizes for the Community InterLeague Championships this Saturday, when D License Certificates will also be presented to successful coaches, and equipment to teams and Leagues.

Burnett expects good showing CLETON BURNETT, national female coach, says he expects the young players to make use of the opportunity, while he looks forward to the senior players to play a leadership role, as the SVG female team vies for top honors in the West Indies 50 Overs cricket tournament to be held in Dominica this week from the7th to the 13th.

“Looking back at last year’s performance, I will like to see that the new players learn from the experience this year, while we look at this direction as a building process as far as exposing the younger players are concerned,” Burnett said. “I know they will be going out there and do whatever they can to the best of their ability, which I

believe will in turn attract other young players who are interested in playing the game at the national level. They will be the next generation of players to set the tone so that others would be attracted to the game.”

“I am also expecting West Indies player Juliana Nero and captain of the team, with the likes of Samantha Lynch who returns to the team after missing out last year; Latoya Providence vice captain and allrounder Stay Ann Adams who has been around for a couple years, to carry the other players with their experience,” Burnett expressed’.

“Having a chat with Nero before the team leaves, I am of the opinion that she

understands her role apart from being captain,” he commented.

“I can’t complain about anything, with the assistance from Ian Allen and Bill Edwards and everyone else who have played their part. “Our batting is pretty good, but the inexperienced part is the bowling. It will be a good opportunity for the bowlers to accept the challenge and do their best,” he concluded.

SVG will compete in one Zone with St Lucia, Guyana and Jamaica, while the other Zone will feature Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, host Dominica and Grenada.

The full team reads, Juliana Nero (Captain), Latoya Providence (Vice Captain), Nyasha

Cleton Burnett, national female cricket coach.

Williams, Ronique Fergus, Jophenia Joseph, Sue Ann Martin, Shonica Campbell, Hazel Ann Forster, Stacey Ann Adams, Kaylene Garrick, Shevorne Clarke, Vinisha King, Samantha Lynch and Xavian Stevens.

I.B.A.ALLEN

SVG Netball Association to hold summer programme PARTICIPANTS IN THE 2014 SVG Netball Association Lime 4G annual Netball Youth Summer Programme will this year get the opportunity to learn about the adoption of healthy lifestyles, as the Caribbean Healthy Lifestyles Programme (CHLP) partners with the SVG Netball Association in its 2014 summer programme.

The programme, which was originally scheduled to begin last Monday August 4th, will now begin on

Monday, August 11th at the Kingstown Netball Center, from 9am. It will run for one week.

In addition to healthy lifestyles, the programme will also focus on the development of the sport and ensuring its sustainability through the youths.

Young participants will be taught the fundamentals of the game, the rules of the game, and understanding Court and Playing Positions among other things.

30. FRIDAY, AUGUST 08, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN

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Calvin ‘Gold teeth’ Glasgow last week won his argument and was ordered to be repaid $200 plus legal costs of $300.00.

NO REVIEW OF ‘GOLD TEETH’ NOT PROSECUTING Colin Williams communicated that Glasgow has not demonstrated any interest in being a prosecutor.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Williams has confirmed that there is no review as to whether or not police Inspector Calvin ‘Gold Teeth’ Glasgow is authorized to prosecute.

THE VINCENTIAN contacted the DPP on Monday after High Court Judge Esco Lorene Henry ruled last week that the Magistrate’s Court has no power to charge or convict for contempt of court, and that former Chief Magistrate Sonya Young exceeded her jurisdiction when she charged and convicted Inspector Glasgow for that offence, January 22 this year.

As a result, the Judge ordered that Glasgow be repaid the $200 he was ordered to pay the Court, plus legal cost in the sum of $300.

The DPP had written to the Commissioner of Police earlier this year, stating that Glasgow was no longer authorized to prosecute court matters. But he told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, that his decision for Glasgow not to continue prosecuting, had nothing to do with what had transpired before the Chief Magistrate on January 22; it had to do solely with the authority of the DPP to control all prosecutions.

Williams explained that the DPP’s office had several training sessions for persons desirous of being prosecutors.

A number of police officers had expressed an interest and attended the sessions, but Glasgow did not express an interest, nor did he attend.

The DPP said that, following the conclusion of the training sessions, there was an agreement between the Commissioner of Police and the office of the DPP as to which police officers were to be released to serve as prosecutors.

He indicated that Glasgow could not have been among those because he did not express an interest or go

through the training. Glasgow, however, continued to prosecute without any challenge from the DPP’s office, as it is the norm for senior police officers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines to prosecute court matters. But Williams said that, based on certain circumstances, he felt that the time had come for the DPP’s office to exercise greater control over prosecutions at

the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court where Glasgow was prosecuting.

“The first thing that any prosecutor has to recognize is that anytime they are prosecuting, they are accountable to the DPP for the performance of their functions.

The DPP is vested with the authority of determining who shall prosecute”, the DPP crystalized.

Funeral matter being looked at WHETHER evidence could or would be gathered with a view to laying charges in connection with behaviour displayed at a recent funeral service for the burial of former talk show host Elwardo ‘EG’ Lynch, is an issue

Acting Commissioner of Police Reynold Hadaway assures that the matter is ‘being looked at.”

for the police to decide.

When contacted on Monday, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Colin Williams told THE VINCENTIAN that he believes evidence could be gathered to charge person/persons for offences contrary to the criminal code in relation to insulting a religion, defiling a place of worship and disturbing a religious assembly.

However, Williams pointed out that, based on a Privy Council decision earlier this year, in the case of Steadroy Benjamin, now Attorney General in Antigua, “I will let the police do their part, and reserve the province of prosecution for the DPP”.

The Steadroy Benjamin case is the latest legal authority

Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves attends the funeral of the late Elwardo ‘EG’ Lynch. A commotion later arose when he attempted to give a tribute on Lynch’s behalf. that defines the roles of the police and the DPP. Williams said that if the police submit files, in relation to the matter, for him to review, he could review the evidence with a view to considering the merits of a prosecution.

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

When contacted on Tuesday, Acting Commissioner of Police Reynold Hadaway told THE VINCENTIAN, “the issue is being looked at”, but he declined to comment further.

The incident at

Lynch’s funeral service held at the Georgetown Anglican Church, has been described in some circles as unruly and disruptive behaviour, with some persons calling for charges to be laid. Others sought to justify what happened.

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