THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 11-12-20

FRIDAY, DECEMBER

11, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.50

Prosecutor blasts Investigator Page 4

www.thevincentian.com

Focus on HIV/AIDS Page 7

Mc Kie joins Metro Page 14

ESCAPEES RECAPTURED: ONE SHOT

Wrong man shot Page 28

PRIMUS ESCAPES AMIDST RELATED TRIAL

by HAYDN HUGGINS

and Hansan, after they were found missing from their cells at Her Majesty’s Prison in Kingstown, around 6 a.m. on Wednesday.

A witness to the unfolding scene said that during Thursday’s operation members of the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) of the RSVG Police force could be seen first Continued on Page 3.

Continued on Page 3.

Left: Veron Primus (left) and Ulric Hanson.

recaptured.

The men were apprehended at ESCAPED PRISONERS, Veron Primus an apartment in Plan, Campden who was serving a sentence at Her Park, around 9:30am on Majesty’s Prison for escaping lawful Thursday. custody and was awaiting trial for The Royal St. Vincent and the murder, and Ulric ‘Chucky’ Hanson Grenadines Police Force who was awaiting trial for murder, (RSVGPF) on Wednesday had robbery and burglary, have been launched a manhunt for Primus

V Entertainment Feature Page 15

MURDER ACCUSED Veron Primus’, who made good an escape, albeit temporary, from Her Majesty’s Prisons, Kingstown, 14 months ago, made a second bid for freedom, this time, along with another The ongoing trial of Louis inmate, Ulric Cupid, charged in Hanson, of Mayreau, connection with Veron who is also awaiting Primus’ first escape, has trial for murder. revealed some still The two were unanswered questions found missing from about which persons are their cells on the now speculating. morning of December 9.

The escape came amidst the trial involving Prison Officer Louis Cupid Primus, who is charged in connection with Primus’ first escape.

During Cupid’s trial, which is ongoing at the Serious Offences Court, a number of procedural lapses at the Prison were revealed, including the disappearance of Primus’ cell key.

Senior Prison Officer, Edson Mathias who had worked the 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift on October 1, 2019, told the Court, at the trial on November 13, 2020, that just prior to the time Primus was reported missing that morning, the key to his cell could not be accounted for, and a hammer and chisel had to be used to forcibly remove the lock.

However, when the officers entered the cell, there was no Primus. They instead found shoes and debris under a sheet, which appearing to be someone lying there.

Under cross-examination by Cupid’s attorney Grant Connell, Mathias admitted that the key for Primus’ cell was not on the brunch of cell keys that morning. He said there were duplicates, but when Connell asked why the duplicate was not used to open Primus’ cell, he said it was thought that Primus may be ill, and the duplicates were locked away in a particular area of the Prison. Iit would have taken some time to get them, he said.

Mathias also admitted that well behaved prisoners had access to cell keys, as they would assist the prison officers from time to time.

Another witness, prison officer Corporal Gareth Clarke, could not recall, under cross-examination, the last time he checked the diary for entries.

Neither Clarke nor Mathias could say when the key to Primus cell disappeared from the bunch.

RRU Officers remove an injured Ulric Hanson from the apartment building.

by KENVILLE HORNE

EC$1.50

2. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 No foul play in Cedars manÊs death POLICE ON WEDNESDAY confirmed that no foul play was suspected in the death of 50-year-old carpenter Ron Maloney.

The partially decomposed body of Maloney was discovered hanging from the ceiling of his living room at his home in Cedars, on December 6.

According to Police, an acquaintance of the deceased man went to visit and found the doors and windows locked, but that there was a foul odour coming from the

inside of the house.

The Biabou police were alerted and on visiting the scene, realized that they had to make a forced entry if they were to ascertain the origin of the smell.

On so doing, the body was discovered hanging by a rope.

Residents of the community said that Maloney was last seen alive on December 4.

His death last Sunday followed the

Jack pleads guilty to Bishop’s murder TWENTY-SEVENYEAR-OLD ANWAR JACK of Georgetown, charged that between August 17th and 18th, 2018 he caused the death of Ian Enoch by an unlawful act, pleaded guilty to the charge last week during his arraignment.

Jack was further Anwar Jack, after having remanded into been declared fit to make custody following a plea, pleaded guilty to his plea. His mudering Bishop Ian sentencing is Enoch. adjourned to December 18th, 2020, pending a social inquiry report.

Earlier this year, Jack’s lawyer Grant Connell raised the question of a psychiatric assessment to determine whether he was fit to enter a plea.

Enoch was said to have left for an event in Villa on the evening of Friday 17th August, 2018.

His blood-stained body was discovered approximately 18 miles away in a hut at the Cayo Village — a reconstructed Carib village outside the Argyle International Airport, on the following morning.

Police on patrol in Glen had picked up Jack around 2am on August 18th, 2018, hours before Enoch’s body was found. He was cited as a suspicious character, having been walking in the rain at that time of morning some 17 or so miles away from his Georgetown home.

According to reports, while he was in police custody, Jack told of the location of Enoch’s body and took police to the scene. (Source: ANN)

shooting death of 21year-old Malachi Cyrus who was shot and killed in Largo Heights around 7:50 pm on December 5.

That incident was preceded by a shooting which occurred around 3:50 am on the said day.

Circumstances in that incident are that three persons (two men and one woman) were

lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 3.

The house in which it is believed Ron Maloney committed suicide. walking towards a parked vehicle when a gunman opened fire on

them.

They were said to have received multiple

gunshot wounds about their bodies but were in stable condition. (DD)

Escapees recaptured: One shot

Continued from Front Page. staking out a duplex (apartment building), concentrating their focus on the top floor.

As they advanced, there was a burst of gunfire supposedly from the RRU members. When the gunfire ceased, a loud call could be heard to “bring the handcuff.”

This was followed by another round of gunfire.

It could not be discerned with any surety whether the first round of gunfire was made after the RRU officers had entered the apartment.

However, after the second round, the RRU officers were seen removing (living) Hanson as they exited the apartment. It was clear, the witness said, that Hansan had been “shot.”

Other residents of Plan who had converged on the scene said that he could be heard “groaning for pain.”

The original police transport on the scene took off with the injured

Hanson.

Another police transport with detective arrived soon after and they proceeded to comb through the apartment.

At this point a female, who neighbours confirmed rented the apartment from which Hanson was taken, showed up. She was searched by the lawmen.

After a period of ‘calm’ which lasted close to an hour, the detectives emerged from the apartment with Primus.

Primus and the female were taken into custody and whisked away in the police transport.

Residents in the community expressed surprised that both fugitives could be so close to them without their knowledge.

Some also questioned how an accused murderer

Police transport leaving the scene with Veron Primus seated in the middle of two officers. could escape from prison twice, this in reference to Primus who had escaped from her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, in October 2019, twice.

Notwithstanding the

questions with respect to prison security or lack thereof, residents of the area, for the most part, commended the police for their swift and decisive action.

Primus escapes amidst related trial Continued from Front Page.

Cupid is currently on suspension awaiting the outcome of the matter.

Primus is awaiting trial for the murder of Real Estate Agent Charlene Greaves of Dorsetshire Hill, stemming from a stabbing incident at Arnos Vale, November 2015.

Ulric Hanson, along with Jerome Ollivierre, also of Mayreau, and Glenville Harry of Vermont, are awaiting trial for the murder of security guard Rodney George, 50, of Victoria Village. His body, with throat slit, was discovered in GEC Auto Supplies.

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4. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Courts

Upset Prosecutor blasts investigator Parsons has reportedly bled to death AN ISSUE regarding the following a stabbing clarity of witnesses’ incident at Long Piece on statements in a murder the date as referenced.

Preliminary Inquiry (PI), Initially, there both and the attitude of some the Prosecution and in authority, may have Defence moved to have been the impetus for an the P.I done by Paper angry response from Committal Procedure, Senior Prosecutor but this could not be Adolphus Delpleche during done, because the on Monday’s sitting of the witnesses’ statements Serious Offences Court. could not be read clearly The Prosecutor, in when the matter came expressing his disgust, up for hearing on referred to the Monday. investigator Corporal As a result, Delpleche Colin May as a indicated his intention to “dastardly liar,” as an take the evidence of unaccustomed drama Corporal May, and May unfolded at the Court. was summoned.

The matter involved However, Joseph’s Frankie Joseph of Long attorney Jomo Thomas Piece, Lowmans insisted on a Paper Windward, who is Committal Procedure, charged with the and called on the February 21, 2020 investigator and others murder of Henry Parsons to do what was required also of Long Piece. to ensure the clarity of

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Mitchell Israel will answer to a judge and a jury for causing the death of his wife.

‘Mitch’ to face Judge and Jury FORMER public servant Mitchell ‘Mitch’ Israel will stand trial in the High Court for the murder of his wife Arianna Taylor-Israel, a Cuban national who was employed here as a nurse.

Taylor-Israel was reportedly shot multiples times on the compound of the St. Martin’s Secondary School around 3 p.m. on January 30 this year.

Following a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) which started at the Serious Offences Court earlier this year and concluded there on Monday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne ruled that the Prosecution had presented sufficient evidence for the accused to stand trial.

Several witnesses had testified at the PI for the Prosecution.

These included detectives from the Major Crime Unit (MCU) among them being the lead investigator- Sergeant Biorn Duncan, and Crime Scene Specialist-, Corporal Raycon John.

The Court also head evidence from several students, including the two sons of the couple.

Israel was represented by attorney Dr. Linton Lewis, while Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche appeared for the Crown. (HH)

the statements.

At this point, the Senior Prosecutor told the Court that in another matter in which Corporal May was the arresting officer, he had told May to type some statements for him, and May told him that someone in authority told him not to type them.

“This burns me!” a visibly upset Delpleche shouted.

“You could remember that?” the Prosecutor asked Corporal May, who replied, “I can’t recall.”

But the Prosecutor, himself a former police officer of several years of experience, was more irate in his expression of disbelief in Corporal May’s response.

“You are a dastardly liar!” he shouted to the investigator, as persons in the gallery, mostly

police officers, followed the drama keenly.

“That’s a dangerous accusation,” Corporal May replied.

“I can defend myself,” the Prosecutor responded firmly.

When the Court resumed a degree of normalcy, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne contended, “The statements are not clear for Paper Committal. In this day and age, we have to put our house in order. Statements must be clear.”

Thomas suggested that the Court should make an order for Corporal May and others to do what they were required to in the first place.

The Chief Magistrate said that she would take oral evidence only from Pathologist Dr. Ronald

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche minced no words in castigating investigator Cpl. Colin May and others responsible for the tardiness in ensuring proper presentation of typed transcripts of witnesses’ statement.

Child, who was present, and e ordered that all other witness statements be typed and disclosed on or before December 18.

The P.I has been adjourned to January 5 and will proceed via Paper Committal Procedure.

Court orders release of ‘Blacka’s’ money UP TO PRESS TIME Wednesday, Andy ‘Blacka’ Bennett, 62year-old farmer of Chateaubelair, was awaiting the return of monies detained by the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) since February last year.

In a judgement handed down at the Serious Offences Court on December 2, this year, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne said she was not satisfied that there was sufficient evidence to show that the monies were intended for unlawful use, or were the proceeds of unlawful conduct, directly or indirectly.

As a result, she ordered the release and return of the monies to Bennett.

The Magistrate had reserved her decision in the matter following the hearing of an FIU application in August last year, for forfeiture of the cash.

The matter had stemmed from a police search of Bennett’s person in Kingstown around 2:50 p.m. on February 25 last year.

The search turned up 47 grams of marijuana, as well as US$5,620 and EC$2,200 in cash.

Bennett had told the police the money was derived from working in St. Martin and that he was a livestock and agricultural farmer in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He produced a number of receipts to substantiate what his claim.

Bennett was taken to the Central Police Station, and handed over to Investigators of the FIU. The money was detained by the FIU and Bennett was charged with possession of 47 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.

The FIU also made an application for forfeiture of the cash which was heard at the Serious Offence Court in August last year.

Bennett produced documents to the Court, claiming that the money was legally obtained through farming, and by work he had done in St. Martin.

But the FIU maintained their belief that the money, directly or indirectly was intended for use in unlawful conduct, or in the circumstances, the proceeds of unlawful conduct.

Among the reasons

given was that Bennett was found in possession of 47 grams of marijuana on February 26 last year, along with the money.

When contacted on Tuesday, Bennett’s attorney Grant Connell told THE VINCENTIAN, “It is now a week since the Court ordered the release of the money, but to date the FIU has not complied with the

Court’s order.” Andy ‘Blacka’ Connell Bennett said his client awaits his is relying on money for the cash, as which he has he was already recently fined earmarked $9,000 for use. possession of 60 pounds of December 7 to pay the marijuana with intent to fine, and he needs the supply. cash to prevent him from Connell said Bennett going to jail. (HH) was allowed until

From the Police files On 4th December, 2020, Police arrested and charged Mickel Laidlow, a 28-year-old vendor of Old Montrose with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

According to investigations, about 4:00 a.m on December 4, the accused allegedly had in his possession a homemade firearm and one (1) round of 12-gauge ammunition, without a license issued under the Firearms Act. Laidlow appeared before the Serious Offences Court to answer to the charges and pleaded not guilty.

Bail was granted to him in the sum of $15,000.00 with one (1) surety. He was ordered to surrender all travel documents and report to Central Police Station on Mondays and Thursdays between the hours 6:00a.m and 6:00 p.m.

He was also placed on curfew from 7a.m — 6a.m. The matter was adjourned to 7th January, 2021.

And a police release made available this week, reported that Hayden Nanton, a 37-year-old labourer of

Dickson Village, was arrested and charged with an offence of wounding.

The circumstances giving rise to the charge are that on October 24 at about 1:50 p.m. Nanton allegedly unlawfully and maliciously wounded a 46-year-old farmer of the same address, by cutting him about his head with a chain saw.

The incidents occurred at Cane End. The accused is yet to make an appearance in court.

Meanwhile, Kimolorn Spencer, a farmer of Green Hill who is 32 years old, remains on Station Bail, after he appeared before the Serious Offences Court to answer to a charge of wounding, and pleaded not guilty.

The accused allegedly wounded a 43-year-old self-employed resident of Redemption Sharpes by striking him in his head with a brick.

The incidents occurred at Redemption Sharpes about 9:45pm on October 24.

The matter was transferred to the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court and adjourned to February 01, 2021.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 5.

News

BRAGSA on the go!!!! launched an initiative dubbed the ‘Fight Against Dengue Fever’ which also took the form of a road cleaning programme.

The 2020 Christmas Road Cleaning Programme is estimated to cost EC$2.5 million.

It’s the eleventh consecutive year BRAGSA is conducting the programme.

And in related news, BRAGSA informed that it had completed the construction of a new concrete road on Bequia.

The 140-foot long road was constructed in This year’s Christmas Road Cleaning Programme will concentrate on Hamilton, along with a cleaning drains and waterways. (Photo Credit: BRAGSA) 38 feet long Box Culvert SOME 5,405 PERSONS, as All of this was across St. Vincent and and a 160-foot long of last week Friday, disclosed in a release the Grenadines. retaining wall, at a total December 4, were from Roads, Buildings He says emphasis will cost of $88,000. employed in this year’ and General Services be placed on the cleaning The work was done Christmas Road Cleaning Authority (BRAGSA), of drains, following the over a six-week period.

Programme set for which is responsible for heavy rains in recent Meanwhile, BRAGSA completion in seven days. conducting the weeks; this, in keeping was also pleased to The complement of Programme. with BRAGSA’s part in announce last week, that workers included 450 Mr. Rohan Cupid, the “continued effort in it had completed the gangs and 905 jobbers.

Communications Officer the fight against Dengue construction and In addition, over 100 of BRAGSA, says the Fever in St. Vincent and renovation of health truckers were expected to gangs will be out from 7 the Grenadines.” facilities in Sandy Bay, be employed. a.m in every district In October, BRAGSA North Windward.

The renovated clinic and new nurses’ quarters (right) at Sandy Bay. (Photo Credit: BRAGSA)

A section of the 140-foot long road constructed in Hamilton, Bequia. (Photo Credit: BRAGSA) The project saw the construction of a new nurses’ quarters with the capacity to house two nurses; and renovation to the clinic, including the replacement of the roof, windows, doors and tiles and the construction of a

new waiting area.

Plumbing and electrical work were also done on the clinic.

Overall cost of the work was put at EC$500,000. (Source: BRAGSA)

Emergency Communications Project to be launched in 2021 beneficiaries of the system, to familiarize them with the capabilities of the system, and to provide a historical back drop of the project which was conceptualized over five years ago.

The project is funded by the World Bank (US$5 million) as a component of the Regional Disaster Vulnerability Risk Reduction project, administered by the Ministry of Finance and Economic John Melville, Communications Planning, with Cable & Wireless St. Consultant, taking participants Vincent as the contractor. through a familiarization of the The main beneficiaries of this ECN equipment to be used in the project are the Police, Fire Service, Emergency Communications Coast Guard, Health services, Airports Network. and Sea ports, Forestry and Tourism departments and service providers like A LONG AWAITED EMERGENCY CWSA and VINLEC. Other agencies COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK (ECN) designed to facilitate emergency like the Red Cross, SVG First communications will be launched here Responders and Radio Amateurs have also been included in this project. come January 2021.

According to main facilitator and The Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) tier 3 system will be the most modern Communications Consultant John Melville, the DMR system will provide radio communications system in the Eastern Caribbean, and its coverage is the most modern form of expected to provide service to over 95% communications, employing handheld, mobile and base radios which are ‘end of St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

On Wednesday, December 09, 2020, to end’ encrypted for security reasons; the National Emergency Management GPS ready; and inter-operability which allows the parties involved in Organisation (NEMO) invited

A cross-section of those who got an early exposure to the equipment. the network to communicate directly with each other.

For example the Red Cross will be able to communicate with all radios in their group, but if they need to get on to the police for a security matter, or hospital for a medical issue, simply switching to those talk groups will enable communications.

The system is independent of the local phone system and can run up to 10 days on its battery back-up system, which includes 12 repeater sites on St. Vincent, Bequia and Union Island, as well as 2 mobile repeater units which can be deployed in the field, should one of the repeater sites be damaged.

The ECN system will operate round the clock for each day of the year.

C&W St. Vincent, the main contractor, has also been awarded a five-year contract to service the equipment, to ensure that it is operational at all times.

The Ministry of Telecommunications will oversee the project and ensure that all components are functional before final acceptance. At the moment the system is being ‘dry tested’ before final acceptance and ‘hand over’.

Report submitted by: DONALD DE RIGGS

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6. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

LIAT Focus

Spoke in PM BrowneÊs Flight Plan

Below: Prime Minister Gaston Browne (centre) has accused his colleague Prime Ministers Mia Mottley (left) and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (right) of discriminatory action against LIAT. (Photo Credits: LOOPNews)

THE PLAN BY LIAT, or more appropriately what has been salvaged by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, to commence a scheduled commercial service to seven destinations on Nov. 30, has gone belly up so to speak.

A spoke was put in the wheel of this plan when Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, two of the seven destinations included in the resumed service plan, did not give approval for landing in their territories.

It appeared that the Antiguan authorities had assumed that something referred to as LIAT could continue to operate on flight scheduled approvals which existed before the Covid-19 crisis and the court appointed Administration of LIAT (1974) Ltd. And in a direct reaction to this ‘snub’ by two of his CARICOM colleagues, Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, accused them — Mia Mottley and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Prime Ministers of Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines respectively, of deliberately blocking attempts to ‘revive’ the regional carrier LIAT.

Browne argued that LIAT “has valid flight approvals to fly to these countries. LIAT is not a new carrier.

LIAT is a legacy carrier that has been servicing these countries for decades.”

From what could be discerned, these approvals had not been rescinded but were added to, with what the Prime Minister said was a request for prepayment for landing fees.

An infuriated Browne declared, “The irony is, there were no such requirements for other carriers…..they

had no such requirement… so the question is why are they discriminating against LIAT.” The Antiguan Prime Minister took the issue even further by interpreting the action by his CARICOM colleagues as restraining intra-regional trade, which he read as grounds on which a case could be made out before the Caribbean Court of Justice in its original jurisdiction.

All in all, Browne remained adamant that LIAT is a regional institution that should “not be treated

as some stepchild.......that it should be given reference… not to be discriminated against…,” and proceeded to describe the position by Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines as one that “cannot be sustained.”

The airline, which is currently under administration, is being restructured following a decision by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to reorganise the airline.

(Source: CMC, Barbados Today)

PM Gonsalves fires back PRIME MINISTER of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, has moved to explain why this country was removed from a plan by a ‘new’ LIAT, to commence a commercial

service to seven Caribbean territories, among which it was included.

An entity calling itself LIAT, comprised of what the Government of Antigua and Barbuda

took control of arising out of the collapse of LIAT (1974) Ltd.,

announced that it was ready to commence a commercial service to seven territories on Nov. 30.

However, the flights to Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines were aborted after approval for landing was not granted.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne took umbrage with his Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister colleagues, accusing them of putting “impediments’ in the path of effort to revive LIAT. But Prime Minister Gonsalves, while speaking on radio earlier this week, appeared to be ignoring the “effort to

It seems it will be some time before this ‘new’ LIAT’ would be seen at the Argyle International Airport. (Photo Credit: cyberspaceandtime.com) revive LIAT” when he said, “You cannot, however, return an airline like that. There are a number of things that have to be put in place administratively.”

He noted there was a difference between the LIAT that had been previously approved for landing in SVG, i.e. LIAT 1974 Ltd., and the LIAT that was currently being advanced.

Dr. Gonsalves also highlighted that LIAT 1974 Ltd. is “in administration” and that a legal process must now be allowed to run its course.

“Shareholders now don’t have anything to do

with LIAT, there’s no independent management, there’s just a court appointed administrator,” he explained.

“The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines welcomes LIAT 1974 Limited in administration to fly here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Dr. Gonsalves disclosed, but this, as per information contained in the accompanying article on this page, would happen only after the entity satisfied certain ‘new conditions’.

Dr. Gonsalves did not address those conditions.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 7.

News

HIV animator keeps focus on HIV/AIDS

by GLORIAH…

Sydney ‘Pumpkin’ Joseph has been persistent in his HIV/AIDS awareness effort and has worked for the better part of his crusade without any real remuneration. That has changed recently.

WORLD AIDS DAY, commemorated annually on December 1, was observed under this year’s theme: “Global solidarity: Resilient HIV services”.

Local HIV/AIDS animator, Mr. Sydney Joseph, aka ‘Pumpkin’, commemorated the occasion with a lighting ceremony.

He told THE VINCENTIAN that, “This lighting ceremony is done as a remembrance of those who died of HIV/AIDS. It’s important because as a person like me living with HIV, the next stage is AIDS and close friends are dying from this, for simple reasons like neglect.”

The activity was conducted (appropriately?) outside the closed gates of the Kingstown cemetery.

A small but appreciative crowd gathered, among whom were Pumpkin’s partner, Ms. Jeminy Ottley and close friend Mr. Jonathan Peters, a former Minister of Trade in the Sir James Mitchell led New Democratic Party (NDP) administration, A display reading, “HIV AIDS 2020” was laid out on the street, encircled by lighted candles. Pumpkin explained: “The HIV lettering was created by using empty treatment bottles used by myself and my partner Jeminy; and the AIDS 2020 sign was made from packets of condoms that we string on to one another.”

Ms. Ottley conveyed her delight at being there, expressing sympathy for those who died. “I feel so good,” she remarked. “We tried to improve on what we did last year.” She called for more support for suffers, in terms of proper nutrition to back-up the drug treatment.

COVID-19 cases increase tested positive on entry screening. All of these travelers are in mandatory quarantine and will be isolated until cleared by two negative tests. Contact tracing and testing have commenced.

St. Vincent and the “ST. VINCENT AND THE Grenadines, as of December 8, GRENADINES today recorded 2020, had recorded a total of three (3) new COVID-19 cases. ninety (90) COVID-19 cases, One case is a returning national who arrived with a negative RT- eighty (80) of which have recovered. There are now ten (10) PCR test result from Canada on active COVID-19 cases, all Monday December 7, 2020 and tested positive on entry screening imported from countries for SARS-CoV-2, the virus which categorized as high risk.

The number of travelers from causes COVID-19. The second high risk countries such as the and third cases are American USA and UK is expected to nationals who arrived from the USA also on Monday December 8, increase, as persons come to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for 2020. The adults arrived with a Christmas and the traditional negative RT-PCR result, and Editor’s Note: The following is a Press Release from the Health Services Subcommittee National Emergency Committee, Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, dated December 04, 2020.

winter tourist season. The risk of travelers testing positive for COVID-19 is expected to continue to increase. The need for strict compliance with the existing quarantine protocols by all is extremely important, if residents are to continue to live with minimal restrictions during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Travelers who complete their five days in an approved hotel must continue to quarantine at home for the entire additional nine (9) days, in compliance with the fourteen (14) day Medical Officer Quarantine Order. Any interruptions to this fourteen-day quarantine should only be with the specific authorization from a Port Health Officer or according to established resort protocols.”

A display was laid out on the street using (lighted) candles, empty treatment bottles and packages of condoms.

Mr. Peters lauded his friend of almost fifty years for his persistence in working with disease sufferers.

“He’s been doing his job for free for years, but he is faithful. He’s now receiving something for it. He keeps on telling me that if we don’t do something about these young people, one big thing will break out here! He is a good man. We should always encourage him!”

As for ‘Pumpkin’, he lamented the plight of HIV/AIDS sufferers. “In the whole impact of COVID, nobody looked at the HIV people,” he remarked, “I [am] lighting candles because I believe that HIV is serious; that and COVID 19 not too far apart!”

He described his work thus: “I work on behalf of persons with this disease, helping delinquent patients to get back to clinic. I also direct people to the places to receive support, among other things.”

He lamented that treatment is free but it is like a therapy, the World Health Organisation having outlined their effects where best results occur when all basic needs like diet and so on are also met.

“These persons should be taken care of by the state. The onset of COVID-19 saw persons receiving monetary assistance, while persons taking 1,300mg of antiretroviral drugs didn’t receive anything!” he added.

According to www.healthline.com, antiretroviral drugs treat but do not cure HIV. They basically keep the immune system strong enough to fight off disease. Most HIV patients take two or more of these drugs every day for the rest of their lives.

They must be taken at the right time and in the right manner, but this is sometimes difficult to follow and the drugs can cause serious side effects, triggering patients’ discontinued use.

When this happens, the virus can start copying itself in the body, and HIV could become resistant to the drugs. In such a case, the drug ceases to work, and the patient’s options become fewer.

Individuals pledging their life’s work in support of worthy causes must be egged on with meaningful support that adequately addresses the issues. A person like Sydney ‘Pumpkin’ Joseph should be forever lauded for the work he does among the HIV/AIDS community.

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8. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Good News, Bad News on request AS PER A REQUEST to do this before Christmas, here goes with another edition of Good News, Bad News.

investment is attracted and translates into real enterprise.

BAD NEWS when it seems the authorities are bent on having a GOOD NEWS that the government foreign foot in most of what they see moved quickly, with the support of as feasible development projects, even the Opposition, to pass a COVID-19 when the history shows that we ought Stimulus Package in the House of to be cautious about with whom we Assembly. go to bed, a la David Ames, PACE. BAD NEWS when there are reports of persons turning into vendors and GOOD NEWS that we can attract other qualifying groups overnight, so investment, non-Vincentian like they could (and did) receive ‘stimulus Rainforest Seafood Ltd. from Jamaica. money’, while deserving people were BAD NEWS if there was not a not included in the loop. proper study done regarding our lobster and conch stocks, prior to GOOD NEWS that the general granting Rainforest a plethora of elections of November 5, 2020 went concessions. Worse News if there are off without any reported major plans to interrupt overseas markets mishaps. accessed by persons in the BAD NEWS that the campaign was Grenadines. characterized, once more, by lavish spending of large amounts of GOOD NEWS always when ‘unaccounted for’ money, by overly markets can be provided for our zealous politicians. farmers and fishers.

BAD NEWS all round if what we GOOD NEWS that the majority of hear is true, i.e. that the ‘conch’ the electorate used the opportunity of population is not being allowed to the general election to register a replenish itself as it has done for dissatisfaction that they felt with the eons. governing party.

BAD NEWS when even though this GOOD NEWS that there is was so, we have not accepted that we ‘PRYME money’ to encourage opted for the first-past-the-post entrepreneurship in the country. system and now don’t want to respect BAD NEWS if there is no follow-up the result. to track how the money is spent and that there are no unsavoury GOOD NEWS that our democracy characters who benefited from this allows for legitimate protest facility. regardless of who says they will smash any protest and open GOOD NEWS to note that this demonstration.

‘PRYME money’ followed on more BAD NEWS when those protests go than one loan facility to help farmers, to the extent of severely disturbing and to ‘revive the banana industry’. the equilibrium of the state, as those BAD NEWS that we have not of 1998-2000 did. heard how much of that money ‘lent’ to farmers was ever repaid, and for GOOD NEWS that we now have a what purposes it was used. woman as Speaker of the House.

BAD NEWS if those ‘honourable’ GOOD NEWS that we continue to male members of the House don’t encourage our communities to express buckle down and give the lady her their typical celebration of Christmas due respect. with community lighting up and Nine Mornings cultural activities, a la GOOD NEWS that we have begun Stubbs. the process of transforming the prime BAD NEWS when we have not real estate we called the E.T. Joshua recognized the lighting of the Airport.

Botanical Gardens as an exceptional BAD NEWS when that initiative that ought to receive more transformation process does not seem support that it does, and that every to involve any real cross-section of the effort be made to ensure that it does local commercial community as not become a personal/political integral players. battleground for some.

GOOD NEWS when foreign

Nuff said!!

A pocketful of problems to handle (A re-print of THIS WEEK from THE the heads VINCENTIAN of Friday 10th February, 2018) of state.

Gun THE POLITICAL POT is approaching Munro’s boiling-point. Within the next two months wife was or so it is likely to blow its top. We English. continue to tread the path to which we Lady David Jack was born in the USA of seem committed, a fight to the finish in an Vincentian parents and carried a internecine war.

Vincentian passport; Charles Antrobus Let us look at the current rundown. We became divorced from his Vincentian wife are now in the throes of a very important and wedded a Trinidadian; Freddy budget session. As soon as it is formally Ballantyne, with even-handedness, through we are on to a very significant married four times - two Vincentians, one convention of the NDP, the first since the Canadian and one Pilipino. Rupert John election of Dr. Godwin Friday as the new was the sole head of state with a single President, following the tenure of Arnhim Vincentian wife.

Eustace after some eighteen years.

Another statistic which is most All the while the election petitions have interesting: Edgie Richards is the only been hanging in balance before the court, person to have run in three constituencies, and due to be heard after about fifteen for three parties, and lost every time: in months following an election that returned North Windward for the PLM in 1957; for a disputed one-seat majority for the ruling the PPP twice in East St George in 1961 ULP, a record of sorts in terms of the and 1966; and once for Dr. Gideon delay involved.

Cordice’s SNM in a by-election in Central Three weeks prior to that outcome, the Leeward in 1983.

Argyle International Airport will be My better friends have always warned opened, which has been anticipated as a me of hiding my light under a Bushel. So worrying controversial happening.

I beat my chest a little on reading of a Then March 28, National Heroes Day cricketing feat of 5 wickets for 7 in a July rolls by which to date has offered one hero 2016 article by Patmos Richards, in a soft only, Joseph Chatoyer since 2002. For ball match in Kingstown. fifteen long years, the ULP administration In 1950, 67 years ago, in a Junior has been unable to enlarge the category of House match played on the Grammar National Heroes. At least the AIA won School pasture, with “leather seed” ball, I that competition of sorts. captured 7 wickets for 7 runs, all clean And preparations are underway for the —bowled, for Green House against Reeves 40th anniversary of our modern carnival House. next July, which just about synchronises My victims were the opening pair of with the like anniversary of the Comrade Ashton brothers from Layou, Fosdick F.C in the field of politics, as a fresh crop of Huggins, Raymond Liverpool, Alfie leaders emerge to take over the fortunes of Roberts who played later for the West the ULP. Indies, Phil Ambris who became a lawyer But that is running ahead. A lot of and was fatally shot in Arthur Williams’ turbulence will accompany the foregoing chambers, and Joe Linley who is still events, and “THIS WEEK” expects that living in Florida, USA. the next six months will be hectic at least.

Lester Huggins is also still living at So we will concentrate on a few Layou. He claims not to recall my feat in pleasantries, neutral facts and small talk full, but I remembered getting him first for the rest of “THIS WEEK”. ball for nought in both innings. He First of all, here are some interesting shaped up as a left-hander in the first and facts in SVG politics. Heads of a right-handed in the second, in which he Government often took non-Vincentian settled for the rest of his career, which wives: Mrs Ivy Joshua, a Grenadian; Mrs was nothing short of illustrious.

Lucyann Cato, a Nevisian; Mrs Pat Indeed, “THIS WEEK” acclaims Lester Mitchell, a Canadian; Mrs Eloise Huggins our best all-round sportsman for Gonsalves, a Dominican-Trinidadian. As the 20th Century — medium-fast bowler, an educated guess, the next Prime Minister will either be Camillo Gonsalves dashing stroke-player, a left-wing in football and goalkeeper of class, a quarterwith a Jamaican wife or Godwin Friday miler and performer of the jumps and with a Trinidadian wife. hurdles, great swimmer who also To date, Arnhim Eustace has been the mastered the dives. only Prime Minister with a native wife, In short, at 80 years, Huggins deserves which probably explains why he served as some national accolade as the complete PM for only half-a-term! sportsman of the 20th century.

It has been a not dissimilar story with

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Governing from the middle I FIND THE Prime Minister’s comment that he only discusses the Speaker’s appointment with the governing side of Parliament to be particularly disturbing, and I hope it is not an indication of how he intends to govern. This is the kind of behavior I would expect from a newcomer, not one with confidence and experience.

Again I ask that we

find ways to work together and not against each other, as we try to recover from this dreadful year. Maybe I am becoming too much of a centrist these days in this Westminster style democracy, and my expectation to see a government that will put the people first, regardless of where the good ideas come from, is too Utopian.

I must also say I am

disappointed that one of the first moves by the NDP in this new session of Parliament was to telegraph their intention to continue their hyperpartisan behavior. I came to that conclusion with the nomination of Kay Bacchus-Baptiste to be Speaker of the House.

What was the true objective of such a move?

What was the point to the poorly disguised demonstration out of

Parliament on opening day?

Now to me, the selection/appointment of the Speaker of the House was an opportunity to show some humility and a chance to usher in a new approach to governing. The Speaker of the people’s House is a golden opportunity for a consensus candidate and someone who, no matter what, at the end of the day, can facilitate an

I HAD THE opportunity to follow up the general elections in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. In the Trinidad and Tobago election campaign, the Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley embarked on weakening the UNC leadership to the core.

He was successful in

doing so.

In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the ULP had lots of information from Star Radio host Mr. Frank Da Silva, but such information did not trickle down to the campaign trail. For instance, I expected that some interesting tapes would have been played five minutes before a new speaker started their contribution but that was not the case.

That to me was a serious error on the part of the ULP. In the 2015 general elections campaign Comrade Ralph did well in beating up Mr. Eustace after he

embraced austerity measures. The Comrade showed the nation that since taking power in 2001, he never cut jobs and more so he was never tempted to cut back on jobs even during the world recession from 2008 to 2018. Many of our young people did not want to lose their jobs, so they kept the Comrade there.

Now in the 2020 general elections campaign, the NDP focused their campaign on jobs and more jobs towards getting SVG working again.

No speaker played any of Frank Da Silva’s tape in relation to austerity

measures. Without such a tape, a speaker should have said, ‘Listen people, NDP promises to create plenty jobs. But their main aim when and if they get into power, is to take away your jobs.”

Instead, from the platform, you heard more music than you hear at Carnival. Mind you, I am not saying some of the songs were not good, but too many songs weakening the ULP campaign somewhat.

All in all the campaign for election was a good one. For this I give God thanks and praise.

open discussion of issues.

The majority party in the house will always have the vote necessary to implement policies.

Speaking of putting the people first, how are we doing with the settlement for the Vincentian workers at LIAT? I noticed that they are back in the air.

Horatio

ÂBigging upÊ 2020 elections: Plus and minus Ms. Forde Metrocint scholarship WITH THE 52nd birthday of Metrocint General Insurance Company drawing nigh, it will be appropriate to name a scholarship in its name.

Founder of Metrocint, the late great Egerton Mc Lean ‘Uncle Metro’ Richards, set a high premium on education and productivity.

The Metrocint Scholarship should be awarded to persons (students) who are inclined towards further studies in the field of Business.

Metrocint was established on the 31st December 1968 and is on record as the first local Insurance Company.

Congratulations to Uncle Metro’s illustrious daughter Desiree Richards, Managing Director — Ian Da Silva, Manager — Coline Fraser; Catherine Gibson, Mr. Dwight Da Silva, Mr. John, et al for an excellent job in advancing Metrocint’s image as the leading Insurance Company in SVG. Patmos Richards

‘On the ground’

WomenÊs role in our society AS CHRISTIAN Democrats when we consider the role of women in our society, we need to reflect on what is referenced in the Bible, e.g. the midwives who refused to follow Pharaoh’s order to kill Moses, his mother and sister; the first recorded female political leader mentioned in the Old Testament, Debra (Judges 4-5); the queen

of Sheba (Ethiopia), Queen Candac (Acts 8:27), to name a few.

After looking back and looking at the role of our first female Governor General and House Speaker and the many female politicians who are doing well in society, we need to give respect to our women. They have undergone too much disrespect by unbecoming men in high

and low places.

We can look forward to women to continue their role as leaders in society. Remember, women were pivotal and suffered as a result of their role in the 1935 riots, the reaction of the people to a move to increase taxes of the day.

We are with you all, you visionary women.

Christian Democrat

Register for Marion House YAP MARION HOUSe announces the commencement of its application process for its 2021 Maria Holder Youth Assistance Programme from Monday 7th to 15th December 2020, between the hours of 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.

The one-year, three-component, sustainability programme caters to unemployed, “at risk”, vulnerable youth between the ages of 15-25 years, whose parents live below the poverty line. It also caters to juveniles before the court and LGBTQ persons.

It must be emphasized that the programme does not only focus on

teaching a skill, but it includes training in Life and Practical Skills, as well as an Internship component.

Prospective applicants are asked to note that the applications are to be completed in person at either its Georgetown or Kingstown Centre.

Your usual interest and support is anticipated in the life of this Diocesan Catholic institution and the services it provides locally and nationally, as it adheres to its Mission of ‘Guiding the Individual on the road to wholeness’.

Jeanie Ollivierre MSc Volunteer Director

MR. EDITOR, I would not be honest to myself if I did not request an opportunity to extend congratulations to our new Speaker of the House, Ms. Rochelle Forde.

Ms. Forde was destined for greater things. She gave indication of this when she served as a government senator. I would stick my head out and say that she stood head and shoulders above the other two young male lawyers who served as senators when she did.

No doubt, Mr. Editor, Ms. Forde will not have any easy task. We have seen what the leader of the Government side can do as far as using the shortcomings of our House to get his own way, as he did when the great Jomo allowed him to beat back an Opposition Vote of No Confidence with his own Vote of Confidence. (Only in St. Vincent that could happen!!)

Ms. Forde can do all women proud by standing up to the men in the House. They will try to intimidate her, but if she has an ounce of the strength and fortitude of her Grandfather, Mr. O.C. Forde, she will make sure that all those who step out of line — government side and opposition side — are put back in their places.

I want to wish Ms. Forde a successful run as Speaker of our House.

Maybe she can return it to being an Honourable House.

Charles, Edinboro * If LIAT people spoke to relevant authorities in the islands to which it planned a commercial service? * If there is any truth to the news that NDP supporters not getting work in the Christmas Clean-up programme? * Who is responsible for recruiting workers for the programme? * What is delaying the opening of the ‘new market’ in the old Customs building? * Is there a rent free in lieu of debts policy setting in how government does business?

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The revival of Nine Mornings The youth supported the NDP

Introduction ON SUNDAY, December 6th 2020, the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Nine Morning Committee had a very impressive launch of the 2020 edition of the Nine Mornings festival. The launch took place against the backdrop of a well-managed Covid-19 pandemic that continues to create serious challenges to developed and developing countries alike, and a global economic crunch brought on as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this reality, thousands of Vincentians came into capital city Kingstown to be part of the very seasonal Sunday shopping experience, as well as to be part of the launch that took the form of a concert that heard brief remarks. The ULP is proud of the role it has played in restoring cultural activities, making them bigger and better in terms of participation and more significant in terms of the impact these activities continue to have on Vincentians of all generations. The Nine Mornings festival is just one example of the stellar work done by the ULP since coming to office in 2001,, to revitalise our cultural festivals and put them on a sure footing.

The lack of attention paid to culture and the arts by the previous NDP administration, saw a significant decline in some cases and in other cases complete discontinuation of some events related to Nine Mornings. What we have today as a Nine Morning festival is an excellent indication of what a clear cultural policy with proper planning can do in injecting new life into a once dying festival.

(December 2001) could see the beginning of the resurgence of cultural activities including importantly the Nine Morning festival. The creation of the National Nine Mornings Committee headed by Cultural Officer Michael Peters was a very important step that brought together key stakeholders in culture and the arts to plan for the activities of the festival.

The Ministry placed more emphasis on the festival including offering assistance to communities to develop the Nine Mornings activities. As a result of this renewed focus, there began in very short time activities being held simultaneously in the communities of Barrouallie, Carierre, Stubbs, Grieggs and Richland Park, among others. This brought joy and delight to those communities as residents got involved locally in a major festival planned and executed by groups in their communities working together and supported by the Ministry of Culture. There has also been a resurgence in a major way of the community lighting activity, from Rose Bank in North Leeward, that has won the competition in the past, overtaking Sion Hill, once considered the Mecca of community lighting, to Point Village in North Windward, that seems unbeatable in recent years. There is now even a garden lighting competition that, like the village lighting competition, present excellent examples of the Nine Mornings before 2001 creativity of Vincentians.

In recent years, a new feature When the ULP took over in 2001, added to the Christmas season is the there was a broad-based dilapidation Nine Nights, that takes place at the of cultural festivals in general and this Botanic Gardens offering activities for was very obvious in the Nine Morning all member of the family to participate festival like in all others. There was and enjoy. Christmas is really and very little investment made in the truly back again, and the ULP must Nine Morning festival from the take the credit for this because of the government level, and this in turn investment it has made in developing acted as demotivation to the private our cultural festivals over the years of sector that didn’t see any value in this administration. contributing through corporate Beyond the financial assistance sponsorship to the hosting of the provided by the Ministry of Culture, festival. This lack of investment by the the marketing of the destination by government translated into a very low-key execution of this once vibrant the SVG Tourism Authority has also gone a long way in promoting the Nine festival that mainly took place in Mornings Festival. The coverage of the Kingstown. There were few rural Nine Mornings Festival, provided by communities with consistent Nine international news media invited to do Morning activities due mostly to the so by the SVGTA, all form a part of lack of support provided by the the serious investment made by this Ministry of Culture, to ensure the government, that is in large part viable and organised expansion of responsible for the resurgence and these activities beyond Kingstown. growth of the Nine Mornings festival.

The complimentary activity of village lighting across the country also saw significant decline in participation, as Conclusion less attention was paid to community As difficult as it is for the groups that were involved in these opposition and its supporters to give activities. This was the sad situation credit to the ULP for the excellent that characterised our unique Nine work done to improve the festivities Morning festival in 2001, something that the new ULP administration had around the Christmas season including Nine Mornings, it doesn’t to get to work on immediately to correct if we were to not just save the change the reality. The large crowd that attended the launch of the launch festival, but also put it on a sure footing to ensure its restoration above of this year’s festival is a living and beyond what we could remember. example of how the festival has grown.

As the festival gets into full swing from December 16, 2020 the example The ULP investing in culture of the growth and the impact of this With the appointment of Hon Rene festival on the lives of Vincentians from all communities across SVG Baptiste as Minister of Tourism and would present itself in sharper focus.

Culture following the 2001 General Do enjoy the festival and be sure to Elections, the government moved swiftly to put things in place to ensure participate if you get the opportunity. that the very next Christmas

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY (ULP) regime has deceived the youth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They were promised thousands of jobs but nineteen (19) years after the ULP first gained power, they have failed to deliver on their promise.

During the recent general elections campaign, the New Democratic Party (NDP) presented an impressive programme of job creation and opportunities for our youth.

Unfortunately, the youth will not benefit from our programme and will continue to suffer.

The youth supported the NDP because of the high unemployment rate among their ranks. They supported because they were fed up of the ULP. They supported because they were fed up of the victimization and nepotism. They supported because they wanted a lower interest rate on their student loans, and more opportunities to succeed. They supported because they wanted change. They supported because they wanted jobs.

As you traverse this country, the number of young people who are on the ‘block’ unemployed is astonishing.

As a matter of fact, the IMF stated that youth unemployment was 46% before COVID -19. The young people are crying out for jobs. Because of the high rate of unemployment and the lack of meaningful opportunities, it is believed that some of them have turned to criminal activities.

The NDP is deeply concerned about the current state of affairs of the youth. The party has developed programmes and policies to create jobs, and to exploit the talent and abilities which these young people possess. We see the talent and energy of the country’s youth as pivotal in the effort to move our beloved country forward. In diverse areas across the board, the NDP will create opportunities for the youth, and support and facilitate their need to succeed, so that they can contribute to building a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

We remind Vincentians of our programme for the youth. Had the NDP been in office, the NDP would have increased and diversified the scholarship programme and reduced the interest on student loans. The existing scholarship programme would have been improved to offer a wider variety of opportunities for young people to access higher education, in properly accredited universities and colleges worldwide. Diverse scholarships would have been sourced to encouraged persons to pursue studies in non-traditional areas/disciplines, such as culture, music and sports. Additionally, a nonacademic incentive programmes for youth would have been designed and implemented.

The NDP believes that young people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines must be encouraged to identify and believe in their selfworth; programmes must be executed to encourage our youth towards this end.

We would have also implemented and promoted a wide-ranging suite of awards for youth achievement, to serve as inspiration and motivation for other youth. These include: the National Environment Youth Award a new national programme that would have recognized young people across St. Vincent and the Grenadines for projects and activities that

demonstrate their commitment to the environment; The Youth Minister’s Positive Image Awards — a programme to be implemented under the auspices of the minister responsible for youth, to recognize the many people in St. Vincent and the Grenadines who are working towards promoting a more positive image of young people within their schools and communities; the International Award for Youth - an internationally sponsored award for young people between the ages of 14 and 25 years; and the Wave Makers a programme to be administered through the Youth Department.

In addition, we would have worked to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders into mainstream society. An unfortunate mistake made by a young person should not be a life sentence that condemns him or her to hopelessness. Under a new programme to be developed by the NDP, young offenders would have been offered second chances through targeted programmes of technical and vocational training, counselling and rehabilitation.

And towards tackling the problem of youth offenders and the plight of children on the street, the NDP would have worked to improve the ability and capacity of the Social Welfare, Liberty Lodge Boys’ Training Centre and the Family Courts systems to identify and intervene to assist children and youth who are at risk, before their situations become hopeless. Support for this effort would have come through the Social and Spiritual Redemption Charter, which, among other things, would have provided constituted youth organization (Girl Guides, Boys Brigade, etc.) with financial and other material support, to develop and administer programmes that would divert the energies of youth into productive areas.

Moreover, the NDP would have spearheaded the formation of youth committees to be attached to each ministry. These committees would have been the human interface for two-way exchange of information between the ministry and the youth, and would have ensured that the ideas, opinions and viewpoints of our young people are incorporated into policy-making.

And, the NDP government would have encouraged and supported the formation of a Youth Parliament, where young people with an interest in politics would have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the practices and methods of the parliamentary system.

We would have also improved and expanded skills training by utilizing the various resource and community centres around St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and support music education in schools from the earliest level, with a view to establishing a Youth Orchestra and permanent music programme in schools.

These programmes would have benefited the youth had the NDP been in office. We urge you to remain engaged in the political process, so we can bring about the change that is needed. In the recent campaign, your voice was loud and strong, and your courage was inspiring.

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The Hater and the Hated (Pt 2)

“Xenophobia and tribalism, at their most primitive, are by no means white supremacy’s sole franchises. They are rampant in Africa and Asia. The caste system in India is still well entrenched and Russia is very evenly divided between the pale western folk and the Asian eastern ones.” - Harry Fitzherbert – regular reader of the “In Touch” column.

SEVERAL READERS of last week’s essay, “The Hater and the Hated”, commented on some of the thoughts shared throughout the article as attention was drawn to the intolerance of those who appear different in relation to skin pigmentation, religion, and so on. Harry Fitzherbert, one of this column’s regular readers, shared some most interesting insights in relation to discrimination and hatred generated as a result of prejudices that are evident in developed and developing countries. Harry’s introductory paragraph highlighted the plight of individuals and groups in Africa, Asia, India, and Russia. With his permission, his opening paragraph appears as this week’s introductory quotation.

It is quite interesting (and sometimes quite disheartening) to reflect on how entrenched the caste system still is in India. The “pecking order” of the castes is still very evident. Many among us would have thought that in this “age of enlightenment” (as formal and informal education become so readily available to so many) mankind would be more tolerant of those who look and are socialised different to ourselves. We may have expected that the hatreds and prejudices that have plagued many societies over the years would have dissipated.

However, when we reflect of the plight of and the discrimination against many of the indigenous people of North America, Australia, India, Brazil, and so many other nations, we realise that as civilised societies we still have a very far way to go in relation to ensuring equity for all people. There are still too many among us who can be described as “haters” and “the hated”.

In June 2019, the BBC published an article entitled “What is India’s caste system?” The article asserted that India’s caste system is among the world’s oldest forms of surviving social stratification. In providing a brief history of the caste system, the article highlighted that the classification emerged from the Hindu religion and divided Hindus into rigid hierarchical groups based on their karma (work) and dharma (religion or duty). The writer noted that the caste system is more than 3,000 years old; dating back 1,000 years before Christ was born.

The writer proceeded to highlight that the manusmriti is widely regarded as the most authoritative book on Hindu law. He noted that it “acknowledges and justified the caste system as the basis of order and regularity of society”. The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories — Brahmins (teachers and intellectuals), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (traders), and the Shudras (performers of menial jobs). The main castes were further divided into approximately 3,000 castes and 25,000 sub-castes, each based on their specific occupation. In addition, the achhoots (Dalits or the untouchables) also appear outside the

Hindu caste system. This caste classification was (and still is) deeply imbedded in Indian society as successive generations ensure its entrenchment. Even Great Britain could not dismantle the caste system during the period when they ruled India (1858-1947).

Several years ago, while visiting India on a Commonwealth Small Business Development Programme, I had the distinct pleasure of being in a group that was chaperoned by a member of the Shudras caste. She spoke English fluently. She had been very fortunate to have had an opportunity to access tertiary level education via the intervention of American missionaries who worked and lived in her village. We became friends during my sojourn in Chennai (Tamil Nadu, South East India). She explained that she was in love with a young man who was a member of the Vaishyas caste. They had hoped to get married later that year. She mentioned that her fiancé had not yet notified his parents of his intention to marry her. He had hoped that he would receive his parents’ blessings so that he could proceed with his plans to live “happily ever after” with his beloved. We corresponded by email following my return to the Caribbean.

Several months later I enquired about their progression in relation to the wedding plans. It was then that I discovered that the young man, even though he was madly in love with this attractive and intelligent young lady, was threatened that he would be disowned and considered deceased if he dared “contaminate his caste by marrying into a lower caste”. She was devastated. She felt hated by his parents.

Haters exist on all continents and in all societies. We learn about the plight of the aborigines in Australia, native Americans and AfricanAmericans in North America, blacks in Brazil, … and the list continues to expand. Cable television and the Internet regularly feature the exploits of the haters and the plight of the hated. We trust that, with time, our civilisations will become more enlightened and that we will not judge people based on the colour of their skin, their religion, their nationality, and so on. We must continue to hope and advocate for persons to be judged based on the strength of their character and their competence.

We still have a long way to go as we champion the caused for equity and inclusion. Nelson Mandela (19182013), South Africa’s first black President, reminds us that, “No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”

Each of us, in our own way, must accept the challenge to be instruments of positive change as we seek to diffuse the anger and prejudices of the haters and support and encourage those perceived to be the hated. It is not beyond us to do so.

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

Justice is on Trial in SVG IF YOU ARE POOR AND BLACK, especially of a darker hue, chances are you are going to face a trying time, if and when you encounter the oppressive machinery of the state.

The beating of the accused is regular, their pleas are disbelieved, even in the face of compelling proof.

As is frequently the case, the court does not bat an eye.

Or a judge may give an accused a tongue lashing for wanting to engage in the most basic bodily function as going to the bathroom to relieve himself. How dare the accused make such a request when the court is addressing the juror!

Depending on who is the victim, the police may refuse to arrest and charge an accused for shooting his girlfriend. Reason: complainant is disadvantaged; the accused is from the moneyed class.

But we are getting ahead of ourselves.

The Ministry of Legal Affairs is so thoroughly demeaning and disrespectful of the rule of law that its actions can only be described as gangster. Lest we forget, this ministry is led by PM Gonsalves who, before he climbed in the high chair of political office, had a stellar and successful career as a crusading lawyer championing the rights of those, to whom access to justice and the rule of law mean something.

Orders of the law courts are belittled and or condemned. Worse, they are routinely disrespected and disregarded. In SVG, we confront the sad reality where a high court judge ordered the government to pay $500,000 in damages. The interest consequent to its failure to pay is now more than the initial award.

The government routinely refuses to pay damages or cost. The brazen nature of the government’s actions has reached the point where its lawyers don’t bother to file papers, meet deadlines or comply with court orders. When the inevitable comes, and the government’s actions are struck down as arbitrary, irrational and illegal, the government does not bother to ask for a stay of the court’s decision.

Letters, emails and phone calls to the relevant authorities are neither acknowledged nor replied. High government officials sit back, huffing and puffing like mighty lords, daring the aggrieved party to do something that forces change or brings relief.

Compounding the problems for the less fortunate among us is the ways the judicial system operate. Justice delayed is justice denied. This maxim is brought to life every day in court.

In many instances, the magistrate courts stand as houses of horrors rather than places that dispenses justice. One magistrate had a young woman stand next to the defendant box because, according to him, she was too beautiful and ‘pretty skinned’ to stand as an accused. Another magistrate convicted a young rural man, virtually flipping the burden of proof from the prosecution to the defendant. He had to go to the Court of Appeal to seek justice. Yet another dealt with a case with the accused standing outside the door of the courtroom.

All too often, cases in magistrate courts are decided on a whim rather than on legal principles. It is a

regular occurrence for a magistrate to find someone guilty with the explanation that the police version of events is believed. The Court of Appeal has repeatedly ruled that rationale, without more, is an insufficient basis to ground a conviction. Many of these decisions stand because indigent defendants do not have the financial wherewithal to appeal a court’s decision.

The issue of bail presents a big problem. The right to bail is only meaningful if it is affordable.

However, for the simplest of offences, bail is set in the thousands of dollars.

The result is that many persons cram the prisons because of their inability to make bail.

An additional problem arises when the court orders a person adjudged guilty to pay a fine forthwith. The Court of Appeal frowns on forthwith orders. It demands that judicial officers conduct a means test before making such an order. Many poor defendants, convicted for minor offences, needlessly spend time in jail because the court refuses to grant them time within which to pay the fine.

Safeguards to justice are lacking.

The remand time before trials is too long. Accused persons wait four or more years for their day in court.

Because remand time is counted differently than jail time, the longer a prisoner is warehoused on remand, the more time he spends in prison.

There is also a lack of consistency in sentencing. Two convicted persons, on similar offences with similar facts, could end up with sentences that differ in years even where judges are required to follow guidelines.

Upon conviction, a prisoner may decide to appeal the decision of the court. Sadly, many end up serving their entire sentences without being able to pursue their appeal. Prisoners lucky to secure the transcript of the trial after years of incarceration suffer when the calculation is made for remand time.

The Registrar’s office is notoriously slow, one is tempted to say lethargic, when it comes to producing transcripts. But blame cannot properly be laid at the desk of the Registrar and her staff. The Ministry of Legal Affairs stubbornly refuses to hire more transcriptionists so that the record of appeal can be prepared.

Despite the presumption of innocence, it is a hard thing to be a defendant. Depending on the crime, a long gloomy shadow follows the defendant. The public and jurors appear incapable of suspending judgments until all of the facts are known. This problem is fueled by talk radio and social media. A criminal defendant is also prejudiced with the sometimes unconscious prejudices of judicial officers. We glean these biases from how facts are emphasised or relayed to the jury.

The poor, marginalised and disadvantaged sections of our society endure a very stressful existence.

Unless creative solutions are found to address their confrontation with the coercive arm of the state, the quest for justice will remain an elusive dream, and the rule of law will continue to face challenges.

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

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12. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Views

No Public Accounts Committee: MPs failing the people

is gross financial incompetence on both sides of the House of Assembly and the THE PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE failure has meant that the ULP the Accountant General current consequence is that our economy is (PAC) is mandated under Section 76 of regime has been free to poorly manage account was not reconciled with the being killed. the SVG 1979 Constitution, and is meant the public accounts and be wasteful National Commercial Bank.

The Leader of SVG Green Party, to make sure the money that has been with taxpayers’ money.

Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal appropriated by Parliament and In 2007, Gonsalves overspent the BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, who spent disbursed, has been applied to the 2007 Budget Estimates by 10% - $63 three years full time at Oxford purposes to which they were so million. No reason was given.

Brookes University, England, reading appropriated and that the expenditure Gonsalves used (139) Special for his BSc (Hons) degree in conforms to the authority that governs it. Warrants totalling $63,082,458.06.

Accounting and Finance and The PAC is responsible for The Finance and Audit Act (No 1 of Economics, very strongly contends that considering all the accounts that the 1964) says Special Warrants are to the appointment of the PAC in the Director of Audit is mandated to audit, defray unforeseen expenditure (Source SVG House of Assembly should be and in particular, report to the House 2007 Budget Estimates- Researche by made immediately. of Assembly: 1) in the case of any Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal Public funds in SVG have clearly excess or unauthorized expenditure of BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA.). This was not been wasted, because our politicians public funds, the reason for such investigated by the Opposition under cannot deal with the finances. Our expenditure; 2) any measures it the PAC and no PAC report was In 2009 and 2010, the Director of politicians are incapable of doing their considers necessary in order to ensure produced.

Audit failed Gonsalves on the Audit job properly and are failing our people. that public funds are properly spent; In 2008, Gonsalves killed the SVG Reports as no statement of The Director of Audit reports from 3) such other duties relating to public National Commercial Bank with an reconciliation was produced (Source: 2001 to 2008 concluded that the accounts as the House may from time outrageous and foolish bank overdraft Audit Reports 2009 and 2010 — accounting systems in a number of the to time direct. of $185 million, without the SVG Research Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie ministries were unsatisfactory and The Leader of the Opposition is House of Assembly’s prior approval.

O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA). This were rated as such. meant to run the PAC and scrutinise The SVG Director of Audit failed was not investigated by the Opposition We very urgently need a Public government spending. He is meant to Gonsalves in the audit report (Source: under the PAC and no PAC report was Accounts Committee in SVG to keep a be holding the government to account Audit Report 2008 — Researched by produced. check on government spending of and making sure that the public Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal In terms of managing the public taxpayers’ money, and to strengthen accounts are managed properly, and BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA). This was not accounts, we have a uniquely terrible our democracy. produce a PAC report every year. investigated by the Opposition under situation in SVG with the blind However, since the ULP regime took the PAC and no PAC report was leading the blind in Parliament. There office, the opposition has failed to run produced. the PAC and failed to properly Of particular concern for the year scrutinise government spending. This 2008 was the missing $112 million, as

Together Now

by ANTHONY STEWART, PhD FOR ALL INTENTS and purposes, the elections are over. We note that even if there are challenges, they would take more than 5 years to be resolved, either because the system is corrupt or that is the natural course of litigation here. If justice seems elusive, many persons praying can bring about the desired change if it is placed in the hands of the Lord and it is His will. We know that ‘it is a fearful thing to fall in the hands of the living God’ (Hebrews 10:31).

The question is often asked: “Can old dogs be taught new tricks?” The answer is yes. However, in our present circumstances not many will have confidence in the old leadership of the ULP to adopt the majority view of the nation. Consequently, the fresh blood should be allowed to take the lead in charting a new course for the party, and the government, and the country. This is the path of unity embedded in the party’s name and it should form part of the party’s motto as we all strive to ‘Lift SVG Higher’.

Orando Brewster, Curtis King, and Jimmy Prince should take the lead.

The economy is not expected to recover in the short term and no one has the appetite for more taxes.

Embracing the majority view of Citizenship By Investment is appearing more and more appealing.

If we are to stimulate the economy, the present sources of financing will not suffice. Hotel construction appears to be at a standstill and if they get going tourism may not recover anytime soon. The Public Assistance Culture must be changed so that citizens will seek to create their own employment. The whole

Education System needs to change to reflect this.

The Grenadines need Local Government and each constituency can benefit from a Constituency Development Fund. It will be a good idea to give the majority population what they want. There is no need to kick against the pricks. We cannot afford unnecessary unrest.

The Government needs to set the pace in upholding the law, paying debt owed to citizens, being fair in all appointments to the Police, Public and Teaching Services. Parliament must follow the well-established practice and tradition of Western Democracies as it relates to giving the opposition what is their just due.

Motions of No Confidence being tabled and debated is part of this tradition. Additionally, we the majority need our fears to be allayed that politicians are for profit.

Therefore, to curb this tendency if any, Integrity Legislation must be enacted as a priority.

Since we may not have confidence in our current judges, we would like to settle the North Leeward doubts in this manner: 1. Publish photographs of all rejected ballots; 2. We would decipher the intent of the voter if possible; 3. We then declare a winner based on the majority.

We still want the challenge to the 2016 election results resolved.

Based on unsettling utterances of some politicians claiming that they knew how certain segments and individuals voted, it would be a good idea for the Supervisor of Elections to clear the air to reassure us. Any apparent pocket of instability needs to be dealt with expeditiously.

V Metrocint hooks a new fish

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 13.

News

IN A MATTER of weeks since retiring from active politics, former Minister of Tourism, Sports and CultureCecil Mc Kie has been hooked line and sinker, by local insurance company Metrocint Insurance Co. Ltd. Mc Kie, who was the parliamentary representative of the constituency of West St. George from 2010- 2020, Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment from 2010-2012 and Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture from 2012 to his retirement in 2020, brings a wealth of related experience to his post as Manager of Mertocint General Insurance Co. Ltd. That experience includes nineteen (19) years in the Banking Sector during which he attained the rank of Manager of the Kingstown (Halifax), Bequia, Canouan and Union Island branches of the then National Commercial Bank.

He then assumed the position of Managing Director of the St. Hill Insurance Company Limited for nine years, before departing to begin what was to become a ten-year period as a parliamentarian.

Commenting on his prior relations with Metrocint General Insurance and his unfolding role as Manager of the Company, Mc kie recognizes that the company is proud of its fifty-two (52) years as an active participant and significant contributor to the local insurance market.

The brand is strong

“The brand is strong,” said Mc Kie, adding that the company continues to build on the platform and adhere to the philosophy of its founder Edgerton ‘Uncle Metro’ Richards, and expand its portfolio as a direct result of the fortitude and vision of its current Managing Director and daughter of its founder, Desiree Richards.

In that light, Mc Kie referenced the company’s strength in the Motor Insurance Market, their professional approach to handling claims and the solid A-rated re-insurance security backing on insurance business written by the company.

“Additionally, expansion continues to be the focus of the company and their strategic move to establish the Metrolife brand, selling a range of Pan American Life products since 2011, has allowed the company to be a one-stop insurance shop for Vincentians with a range of Insurance needs,” Mc Kie expressed.

An exuberant Mc Kie, with an air of release about him, described the focus of his new position as that of “growing the company and to increase Metrocint’s market share by highlighting the supreme products available on offer, and the quality professional service offered on both the General and Life Insurance sides.”

Cecil Mc Kie looks at home behind his Manager’s desk at Metrocint General Insurance.

The intention is also to maximize the potential of the location of the companies’ operation, i.e. in the centre of capital Kingstown, towards establishing it as an unquestioned one stop insurance shop, Mc Kie said of his tenure.

Finally, he re-emphasised that Metrocint, Metrolife and Pan American are strong, tried and tested brands locally, regionally, and internationally.

This, he said, should give the Vincentian populace great comfort that their investments are secure and well-placed.

‘I am delighted to add the name ‘Mc kie’ to the Metrocint brand,” Mc Kie quipped.

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14. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

More bursaries from Taiwan SOME 525 STUDENTS from the primary, secondary and tertiary level education institutions here received bursaries on December 4, under the Republic of China (Taiwan) Human Resource Development Programme.

The donations are said to total EC$320,000 and are expected to be put towards offsetting costs for the students.

“I am happy to see the smiles on the faces and to be able to provide assistance to the students,” H.E Calvin Ho, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) said at the handing over ceremony last Friday, at the SVG Community College.

“They are the future of the country so it is very meaningful what we are doing now,” Ambassador

Ho said.

The program was launched in 1998 with the intention of assisting the financially disadvantaged students in the country.

According to H.E Ho, since then some US$2.54 million has been provided with over 10,000 students benefitting from the programme.

“That is almost one tenth of the population…they are able to attend school regularly, purchase school supplies, buy meals and afford transportation,” Ambassador Ho said.

The programme is seen as one of the more important areas of cooperation between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Taiwan,

the Taiwanese Ambassador posited.

“I want to encourage the students to take advantage of the education advantages available to you and one day, you will be able to share your expertise to St Vincent and the Grenadines and the world,” he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education Curtis King thanked the Curtis King, newly installed Government and Minister of Education, People of the declared that the country Republic of China has made strides in the field (Taiwan) for their of education. support to the Vincentian people. of areas, with Taiwan He acknowledged that offering training for close to four decades, opportunities for locals. both countries have The country, he said, collaborated in a number

H.E Calvin Ho, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), said that he was happy to provide assistance to the students. has made strides in the education sector, particularly with the assistance of allies such as Taiwan, who continue to play an important role in the education of the Vincentian people.

Minister King encouraged the recipients to not only use the funds wisely, but for them to make use of the opportunity afforded to them to access education.

(DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 15.

Entertainment

Layou welcomes the RSVGPF Band

the mix as she used fills and passing chords as if to say, “I’m no token guitar player, listen!”

The female office was, as per confirmation The faces on this small section of the audience captures the

by Inspector appreciative mood that Miller, characterized last Friday’s bandmaster, concert.

Rayvern Rodney, a triggered an avalanche of first year officer who, on the night, ‘singers’, including a six-yearlong’, but the large The RSVGPF Police was in possession of a Fenden old who was stopped in his crowd that had Band in concert in tracks by Inspector Miller for Squier (guitar), the least gathered, even in the Layou, Last Friday. ‘lyrical violations’, as he expensive copy of the world absence of festive Even a dog came ventured into “Jingle Bells, renowned Fender Stratocaster lights and Covid-19 out to show its Jingle Bells, Fat Man belly made famous by the likes of protocols, and the appreciation. swell….” guitarists Jimmy Hendrix, musical strains of the Also of note were: Mrs. Nile Rodgers and Donneth RSVGPF Band, were Right: Little sixAmanada Johnson who did Dopwell of local Asterisks so inspiring that his year-old Jamie was ‘Oh Holy Night’; Rastya fame,. stay was prolonged. not afraid to take Mingot who did Fireman’s Officer Rodney must have Twenty-seven the mike.

‘Jackie hiding her ginger for been an inspiration to young members of the Christmas’; and a quartet of guitarists as, from a poorly lit FOR THIS WEEK’S ‘V RSVGPF band police officers, led by guitarist ENTERTAINMENT’, combined their talents stage, she laid bear her talents Rodney, who rendered ‘Give in front of an animated crowd. we are once again in to the appreciation of Love on Christmas Day’.

According to Inspector Layou.

Layou residents, who threw All the artistes were Miller, Layou stands out as far Even with the after effects ‘social distancing’ to the accompanied by the Police as audience participation is of a debilitating fever still cooling evening breeze, as they Band. concerned. And this was hanging around, this writer gave honour and meaning to It was at the conclusion of quickly made manifest when a was not going to miss the the ‘reason for the season’. the ‘quartet’s rendition that young lady, name given as Annual Christmas Concert put Two musicians stood out this writer absented himself on by the Royal SVG Police among their peers: a tenor pan Casilda, did a rendition of ‘Do from what appeared to be a you know what I know’.

She Force (RSVGPF) Band, last player no musical charts, and still ‘rollicking’ event, made was joined on week Friday, Dec. 04, at the a female guitar player who stage by her Waterfront, Layou. was not just visually This writer had no intention entertaining as she swayed to mother.

That of ‘hanging around for very the rhythm, but stood out in

Super Six dollars for baker JARROD FOX is a baker by profession. His freshly baked bread and pastries are to be found at top supermarkets here.

Jarrod, though, will have some different ‘bread’ in his possession this season; not the type he bakes, but the batch from the December 4 draw of the Super Six game administered by the National Lotteries Jarrod Fox (left) collects his ceremonial cheque Authority. from MacGreggor Sealey, Manager of the NLA. The young man’s winning numbers were 1, 4, 7, 9, 2 and 23. And the free approaching the National Lottery to ticket letter to the quick pick purchase check out and claim his lot. was J. A simple man, Fox is not He expressed excitement on picking overwhelmed by his stroke of luck and up his winnings and admitted that he has all intention of continuing his owed a debt of gratitude to his mother. duties in the bakery.

He confessed that he almost threw His takings fall short of the away the winning ticket. It took some previous Super Six winner of urging from his mother for him to November 7 this year, which yielded eventually retrieve the item. $354,800 to the winner. (WKA) Thereafter, he wasted no time in

Constable Rayvern Rodney impressed with her guitar playing. possible by the melodious sounds of the police band and the response from the residents of Layou, who seem eager to put the seemingly divisive period of the election campaign behind them, and return to a spirit of community togetherness.

The Police Band’s Christmas Concert schedule will take them to Bequia this Sunday, and to Union island on Monday.

V Entertainment welcomes your contributions to this page. Send contributions to production.ctview@gmail.com (CD)

16. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 17.

News

Night of bullets: ÂWrong man shotÊ, says residents Continued from Backpage.

More shooting – one more death The feeling in and around Redemption Sharpes is that the shooting that resulted in the death of Colmore Edwards was in retaliation for the shooting of Lamont ‘Dutchie’ Hector of Paul’s Avenue.

Hector was shot sometime around 3:50am last Saturday, while he and two others (male and female) were leaving the Envy Night Club in Arnos Vale.

A police release said the party was heading towards Hector’s vehicle which was parked in the yard of the night club, “when an unknown armed assailant approached the group and fired several shots at them.”

Hector was shot twice, once in each

arm, the female, said to be a nurse, was shot in her leg, and the male, Philmore ‘Best Dress’ Hull, was shot twice, once in his check and once in his stomach.

Hull was up to press time (Wednesday) Tuesday a patient at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, where Hector and the female were treated on Saturday and discharged.

And as though that was not enough ‘action’ for last Saturday, police reported that Largo Height resident Malachi Cyrus, the 21-year-old son of wellknown reggae Members of the local constabulary at the scene of Colmore Edwards’ shooting. singer/ composer Abuza management described Cyrus as “a a smile on your face.”

Cyrus, was shot in Largo His death marked the 30th Height around 7:50pm that genuine, funny, and generous person who could always be counted on to put homicide recorded for 2020. night.

The police reported that Cyrus, who recently joined Clear Harbor Shipping as a Customer Service Agent trainee in its St. Vincent operation, was sitting on a wall in Largo Height among a group of persons, when a masked gunman appeared and shot him He was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) where he succumbed to his injuries.

One suspect is said to be in police custody assisting with the investigations.

Clear Harbour Colmore’ Edwards’ body being taken away from the scene of his death.

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18. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Women

Women in political representation and leadership ONE OF THE complaints prior to and during the 25 years of the United Nations Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women, is the low participation of women in political leadership. The 1st National Congress of Women held in 2012 highlighted this factor, and offered the following recommendations for implementation by stakeholders: “17. Implement the agreements made in the Beijing Platform for Action and the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Gender Equality, that 30-50% of candidates on the slate of political parties for elections are women.

18. Conduct leadership training and civic education among women Government Senator Keisal Peters in all sectors and at all levels, to stimulate their greater interest in politics to work across party lines to moving beyond the realm of political develop issues wherein they find organization and campaigning, into common ground. political representation and 20. Encourage all women, leadership. throughout the State and in the 19. Strive for the development of a Diaspora, to rally behind their sisters political culture that allows women in in politics, providing the moral support

Government Senator Ashelle Morgan

Opposition Senator Shevern John

and political solidarity that will allow them to be effective and influential advocates on issues that affect women”.

The political participation and leadership of women at critical periods of our national development are largely sidelined in our history. The question is often asked: “Where are the Women?”

There is a woman who faced the Polls and won six in a row. She was scorned as illiterate, but wrote her name in history “Against the Odds” as chronicled by Ms. Teresa Daniel.

Actually, a few women have faced the polls outside of the dominant Red and Yellow political parties. They were rejected, mocked, scorned, and, in my

own case, labelled as “Mad”, because our socialisation continues to support a Two-Party male-dominated System.

However, in this darkness, there are some bright rays of light. It appears that “Woman Time a Come” in Vincentian politics in the 21st Century. In the November 5th Election, four women contested in different constituencies, and although all were unsuccessful, there are now three female Senators in Parliament, as the Government and Opposition have attempted to fill the glaring gap in our democracy. One of these is the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, and one is a Junior Minister, entitling her to sit in the Cabinet.

The pronouncements of these women as they took up office have shed even brighter rays of light.

They assert their strength as women, and humbly express their readiness to serve the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, regardless of political party affiliation. Opposition Senator Shevern John has echoed Her Excellency the Governor-General’s call for unity in working for the welfare of the “people we love”. It is a timely reminder that Politicians are actually the Employees of the People.

As recommended by the 1st National Congress of Women, it seems that we now have an opportunity, as citizens, to “Strive for the development of a political culture that allows women in politics to work across party lines to develop issues wherein they find common ground.

Twelve Critical Areas of Concern are outlined in great detail in the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women.

Nelcia Robinson

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 19.

Education

Finalists of the 2020 KCCU Primary Schools’ Quiz display their tokens in the company of KCCU officials.

Fancy Gov’t tops KCCU Quiz EXHIBITING POISE and confidence, the Fancy Government School’s pair of Mya Lavia and Afiea Stay answered their way to the top of the points table, when the final of the 2020 Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union (KCCU) Schools’ Quiz was held last Saturday, at Frenches House, Kingstown.

In the process, Lavia and Stay earned their School the coveted prize of the Thomas Saunders Challenge trophy, which they will possess for one year. In addition, they took a trophy for the school’s keeping and $2000. The latter will go towards a project to be determined by the school.

Lavia and Stay each collected $500 and a trophy.

Reflecting on their preparation for the Quiz, they confessed to spending long hours of studying.

They concurred that they were given a list of possible questions by their coach Joyella Roberts, which they rehearsed.

“When I got home from school I would go over the questions and let my sister quiz me on them,” Stay disclosed.

Lavia said her routine was similar, but she sought additional information especially on current governmental matters.

Elated that they each earned $500, Stay and Lavia, said it was timely for Christmas, so that they can do their own “shopping.”

Second was the Kingstown Government School, represented by Chelson Williams and Taiesha Martin, who cashed in on $350 each and individual trophies.

Last year’s winner- the Kingstown Preparatory School took third place after coming out winners in a tie break with the Calliaqua Anglican School.

The Kingstown Preparatory representatives were Tyler Matthias

Afiea Stay (left)and Mya Lavia, pose with their winnings in the KCCU Quiz. and Richard James. They each received individual trophies and a cash award of $ 250.

The other three schools, finishing in fifth, sixth and seventh positions, respectively, were the Kingstown Anglican, Dorsetshire Hill Government and the Biabou Methodist.

Representative of these school and fourth placed Calliaqua Anglican, received $100 each, a medals and a gift bag of school supplies.

The seven schools in the finals emerged from the preliminaries held one week prior at the St Vincent Grammar School.

The students were quizzed in the areas of General Knowledge, Local and Regional History, Credit Union Affairs, Spelling and Sports.

Points were awarded as follows: two for the Multiple Choice segment; three points for the Open Ended questions; four points for the Spelling and five points for the Buzzer Round.

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20. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

He has a right Dear George, AFTER SIX YEARS of ‘courtship’, my boyfriend finally decided to engage me and with much fanfare. It was quite a surprise and I was impressed with the ring which I learned later cost 3000.00USD. About two weeks ago, my boyfriend was at my home and noted a text coming to my phone. It was from a guy who is interested in me. He wanted to know if my boyfriend knew about “us.”

Boy, did my boyfriend get mad! So much so he grabbed the ring back from me and announced that our relationship was off.

George, it is my view that the ring belongs to me; he gave it to me and therefore, has no right to it.

I am planning on making a report of theft to the police. He is daring me to. I thought he had more class than that.

Disappointed Dear Disappointed, An engagement ring is given with the promise to marry. If for any reason marriage is no more in the cards, then he has every right legally to repossess the ring.

Funny, though, that you are the least concerned about the text and how it affected your boyfriend.

Try working towards restarting the relationship then there would be no issue with the ring.

George

A consequence of rape Dear George, I WAS DATING this guy and he made grandiose plans for us. However, as soon as he found out that I was raped as a teen, he disappeared without a trace.

I do not see what my getting raped that long ago has to do with now.

Maybe he was just looking for an excuse to

skip. What do you think?

Still hoping Dear Still hoping, It is always a good thing to lay all your cards on the table face up, very early into the relationship. That will give either party a good look at what they’re

getting into and to decide whether or not something mentioned is a deal breaker or can be worked on as the relationship progresses.

You were at the receiving end of some brute honesty but his disappearing is not very manly. Pick up your hurt and move on.

George

More to it than sex

Dear George,

Dear Final warning, IF MY HUSBAND doesn’t get a grip of himself, he is going to lose me.

My husband is only nice and respectful to me when he wants sex.

He speaks respectfully to me when he wants sex. During the day he calls me names, tries to hit me when at night he comes like the ice cream man with all his sweet talk, just to get his sexual desire fulfilled.

It has been three weeks since I’ve had anything to do with him sexually.

Let him get his sex elsewhere, I do not care.

I have put up with him for two years and my patience is fast running out.

A successful marriage is not all about sex. Your husband has things in the reverse; his sweetened lyrics should result in your readiness to please him sexually.

While I understand your withdrawal from him, sex should never be used as a weapon.

Let your husband know of your displeasure with his behaviour and throw out to him the invitation to attend counselling, which I strongly recommend.

The marriage will be the winner in the end, should both of you make good use of that opportunity.

Final warning

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't be afraid to make additions to your house. Travel will promote new romantic encounters and additional cultural knowledge. Put something away in case of an emergency.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You can expect opposition from family as well as colleagues. Your communication skills will bring you popularity and increased self esteem. Focus your efforts on your work.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You may need to lend an ear to an old friend. Opportunities will unfold; however, you must be willing to pay the price. You can change your living arrangements.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can pick up some overtime this week. Invite friends over rather than spending money on lavish entertainment. Your partner may be reluctant to tell you how they feel.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Try not to be too harsh with your mate. You will have to face each issue separately and in person. Only offer to do the things you have time for. Loss is evident if you don't consider all the angles.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Plan to visit friends or relatives. If you can work at home, do so. Do not yield to children or relatives when they really don't deserve it. Your temper could get the better of you if you confront personal situations.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your personal secrets may be revealed if you let coworkers in on your family dilemmas. Don't share your dilemma with those you work with. You should get out and meet new people this week.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You may be able to get some good advice about your personal problems.

You'll find it easy to deal with government agencies or large institutions. Don't overspend to impress others.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Be sure to think twice before you say something that might hurt your partner's feelings. Your emotions may be hard to control if your mate is forcing you to undergo drastic alterations in your relationship.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You will be able to borrow money in order to invest. It's time to get yourself back on track. Unexpected events may be upsetting. Investments are best left alone this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You'll be pleased with the results if you take the time to decorate your home. You will encounter those who can help you further your goals if you attend functions that attract prominent people.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Try to spend time with those having similar interests. Opportunities to travel will develop through peers. Don't allow colleagues to put unreasonable pressure on you. If you want to make your mark, try to get involved in projects that will bring you some glory.

ACROSS 1. Male heir 4. Rowing team 8. Black bird 12. Sweetened beverage 13. Bee abode 14. Gigantic 15. Spider-fashioned snare 16. Exploited selfishly 17. Secluded, tropical site 18. Altar event 20. Sprinted 22. Portion 24. Cone producer 25. Italian destination 26. Deer horns 30. Genesis boat 31. Barbecue implement 33. Pool circuit 34. Pekoe holders 36. This locale 37. Heed 38. Directed (at) 39. Documented 42. Ocean flow 43. Roof perimeter 44. Does wrong 46. Neither’s partner 49. Say clearly 50. Track section 51. Nursery plaything 52. Camera feature 53. Sandal or sneaker 54. Yonder hen ACROSS 1. Lumber-mill cutter 2. Adoring verse

3. Kansas neighbor 4. Laundry drop 5. Get up 6. Eden woman 7. Chapel occasion 8. Sculpting tool 9. Proceed hurriedly 10. Eye amorously 11. Lawn pest 19. Gershwin brother 21. Tunneling insects 22. Minor dispute 23. Employ 24. Garden flower 27. Basic parts 28. Quite scarce 29. Ran swiftly 31. Ointment container

32. Bar gadgets 35. Conceals under a blanket 36. Secreted 38. Cathdral walkway 39. Bell emanation

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 21.

40. Great review 41. Baking place 42. Small chamber group 45. Stadium holler 47. Pleased expression 48. Bread grain

22. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 23.

Diamond Facility to host first official Meet

Action at the Diamond Track facility on 4th November in an Exhibition Meet.

THE DIAMOND ATHLETICS and Football facility will host its first official Track and Field Meet this Sunday, December 12.

The event, staged by Team Athletics SVG, is dubbed the PreSeason Relays, gets going at 9am and will feature competition in four categories: Under-14, Under17, Under-20 and Open, for both males and females.

The athletes will test their skills in the 4 X 150m, 4 x 200m,

4 x 400m, Mixed Relays, as well as Distance Medley and Swedish Relay, on the newly laid 400m synthetic track.

According to Team Athletics SVG, the pre-season competition is geared towards giving athletes and their coaches the opportunity to schedule and taper training programmes for the optimal development of the athletes, in preparation for the 2021 Track and Field season.

Reports are that Team Athletics SVG has been given the go ahead by government authorities to stage the relays, even as the track is still to be approved by World Athletics.

In the absence of washroom and toilet facilities, which are expected to be complete and operational by early 2021, Team Athletics SVG is committed to provide portable toilet facilities for Sunday’s Meet.

The Diamond Athletics and Football Facility, which was declared open on November 4, is an undertaking by the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines, and is estimated to cost in total some EC5 million.

In addition to the synthetic track, there are facilities for the Long Jump, Shot Put, Discus, High Jump, Javelin, Hammer Throw, Steeple Chase and Pole Vault.

It also boasts a full sized football field which, when complete by 2021, will have its own sprinkler system.

In place as well are the Bleachers which can seat 1,700 spectators presently. Plans are to increase seating capacity to 3,000 and to cover the Bleachers eventually.

The completion of the track is said to form Phase One of the National Stadium Project.

McDowall disappointed “DISAPPOINTED!” That is how Linda McDowall, this country’s top female middle/distance runner, summed up her 2020 athletics season.

She recognised that the advent of the COVID-19 severely affected her local and regional calendar and because of the lack of competition, it was a challenge to remain focus.

And to combat the “negative mental effect”, as she called it, McDowall said she continued to train, which in itself, was quite a

challenge with no competitions for which to aim.

“I continued to train during that period (Covid-19 crisis) because that was one of the ways I could have helped my mental state. And that went pretty well, where I was involved in a lot of physical training by running on the roads and still have to do my training on the track, so it helped my physical state as well as my mental state,” McDowall told THE VINCENTIAN. McDowall, on the strength of outstanding performances in the

2018/19 season was named this country’s 2019 Senior Sportswoman of 2019 as well as Top International Sportswoman.

“For the year of 2019, I was out of Linda McDowall, SVG’s state, when I came top national middle/ back I received my distance female athlete. fourth Senior Sportswoman and the Year title but I just award for international have to move on. With women in the sporting no regional events at the category. So, my year, moment, it is just a lot of 2020, started out well until the pandemic,” she training, getting myself better for 2021,” said.

“I was looking forward McDowall conceded. to capture yet another I.B.A.ALLEN Senior Sportswoman of

Members of the Vincy Heat squad acknowledging the support from the Vincentian public last year, in a match of the CONCACAF Nations League here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

New dates for SVG W.C. Qualifiers THE NEW DATES for St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football team - Vincy Heat’s matches in the first round of the World Cup Qualifiers, have been announced by CONCACAF. Lodged in Group C, Vincy Heat will now meet Curacao in Curacao on the 25th March, and will host the British Virgin Islands here on 30th March.

Vincy Heat’s next fixture is set for 4th June against Guatemala in Guatemala, before returning home to host Cuba here at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, on 8th June.

The fixtures were previous scheduled to take place in the same order last October and November.

The matches were deferred because of the threats of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The First Round pits the teams ranked 6th to 35th on the CONCACAF list.

The six Groups each comprise five teams with the teams playing each other once - two home matches and two away matches.

Group A consists of El Salvador, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Montserrat, and the US Virgin Islands, Canada, Suriname, Bermuda, Cayman Islands and Aruba are locked in Group B. Curacao, Guatemala, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Cuba and the British Virgin Islands do battle in Group C. In Group D are Panama, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, Dominica and Anguilla, with Group E composed of Haiti, Nicaragua, Belize, St Lucia and Turks and Caicos Islands.

Group F is made up of Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, Guyana, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas.

Only the winners of each of the (six) groups will go forward to the Second Round, which will see Group A winner taking on the winner of Group F the Group B winner facing the winner of Group E; and the winners of Group C and Group D squaring off.

The three Second Round winners will join the USA, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras and Jamaica to make up the Third Round, which will be played on a Round Robin Home and Away basis.

The top three will punch tickets to the Word Cup Finals in Qatar 2022, while the fourth place will engage in a Continental Play Off, for a possible fourth spot for CONCACAF.

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24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

„We will do it again,‰ Doris Mc Intosh PRESIDENT of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA) – Doris Mc Intosh has assured that the Fast-5 Competition will return on the calendar of competitions for 2021.

Mc Intosh’s revelation came last Saturday evening at the Kingstown Netball Centre, following the completion of the inaugural competition.

“Come next year, God willing, after our National Tournament, we will have this Tournament again, but with only about ten teams,” Mc Intosh promised, explain that the intention of having only ten teams is because, “We don’t want to prolong it.”

The Fast-5 Competition which was on the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association’s radar for some time, proved to be a good addition, since the National Tournament was

President of the SVGNA- Doris Mc Intosh. aborted in March after four days of Competition, occasioned by the threats posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Conceding that the inaugural Fast 5 Competition did not adhere to some of the stipulated rules, Mc Intosh promised that will not be the case for the next edition.

She noted that the “proper” rules will be given to the participating teams, so that they can practice accordingly.

The inaugural competition, which ran for five days over a two and a half week period with matches played on

Inaugural Fast-5 champions - X-Ceed Sports Club Wednesdays and Saturdays, featured six teams.

X-Ceed Sports Club played unbeaten in the short competition.

They secured their fifth win when last Saturday evening, they defeated Maple, 36- 15.

In previous matches, X-Ceed saw off Major Blazers, 29-23 and swished Mitres, 35-12.

X-Ceed also beat National Properties Netters, 28-11 and were awarded a win over Dutch Lady Clinchers after that encounter ended prematurely, following a Clinchers player being knocked unconscious.

In a Fast-5 Competition, five players are allowed on the court, in the positions of Goal Shooter, Goal Attack, Centre, Goal Defence and Goal Keeper.

The matches are of 24-minute duration and allow for rolling substitutes, different scoring zones, power plays, double points and triple points.

Each team has one quarter designated as its ‘power play quarter’.

In a power play quarter, all goals scored by that team receive double goal points.

Teachers take SVGCC Netball Title THE DIVISION OF TEACHER EDUCATION dominated the final of the 2020 ECGC Island Sipz Water SVG Community College Invitational Netball Competition, winning over the Troumaca Ontario Secondary School, last Friday afternoon, at the Sion Playing Field Hard Court.

The teachers led throughout, winning the first quarter 5-3, the second 14-3 and the third 16-7, before doubling and closing the contest at 20-10.

Prior to the final, Year Two Arts, Science and General Studies had a 24- 18 win over Bethel Young Lasses, to take the third place.

In the brief Closing and Presentation Ceremony that followed the two matches, Asheka Castello of the Division of Teacher Education was named MVP of the competition and the Best Shooter awardee, while Kenica Nichols, also of the Division of Teacher Education, was adjudged the MVP of the Final.

The Best Mid Court player award went to Lennisha Baxter of the Troumaca MVP of the Final - Ontario Secondary School, with Shania Pompey of Year Two Kenica Nichols

Winners - Division of Teacher Education pose with their spoils.

Technical and Vocational, the Best Defensive Player. Pompey was also named MVP awardee for her team.

Other awardees were Kristiana Christopher of Year Two Arts, Science and General Studies, the MVP of the third place play off; Rolicia Carter copped the award of MVP of semi-final one , as well as that of Year Two Arts, Science and General Studies; and Roneika Gibson was named MVP of the Bethel High School Lasses and MVP of semi-final two.

Completing the list of MVPs were: Kayla Miller -

Barrouallie Secondary School; Calicia Swift - Year One Technical and Vocational; Shenika Hooper — Year One Arts and General Studies; Khylia Miller — the Troumaca Ontario Secondary School and Decia Murray — Division of Teacher Education.

Last year’s winner- Police Youth Club, did not participate Best Shooter and Overall MVP in the 2020 edition.

Asheka Castello

Former SMSS students give back A GROUP of past students of the St Martin’s Secondary School has come to the aid of their alma mater, by donating a set of football uniforms to the school’s current team.

The handing over of the football kit was done last Friday afternoon, at the school’s library.

The kit included full outfits for twenty-two players, along with gear for two goal keepers, as well as apparel for the team’s Head Coach.

On hand to make the presentation were Cryon Clarke and Stephen Walrond, former students of the institution.

Walrond told THE VINCENTIAN that he was happy to be part of the undertaking, stating, “St Martin’s has instilled a lot in us, and it is time for us to give back.”

He added, “I am glad to be part of this handing over… The school has allowed a lot of us to flourish in sports and in our academics, and we are truly thankful”.

A former player on the school’s football team, Walrond noted that

the school has personal sentiments for him.

“The school has instilled in me the value of hard work, and I have taken this into my adult life,” Walrond affirmed.

Rohan Thomas Jr. and Pamenos Ballantyne, who are attached to the school’s Physical Education Department, both expressed gratitude for the past students’ kind gesture.

Contributing to the donation

were past students currently residing in England and Canada.

Among these were: Kirth Noel, Junior Christopher, Jenson George, Clinty Joseph, Shaun Bullock, Brian Romeo, Rodney Grant, Edley Samuel, Marlon Johnson and Marcus Louison.

Co-ordinating the effort in England was Max Toppin, a former standout player for St Martin’s Secondary School and for local club, Avenues United.

Some members of the St Martin’s Secondary School football team and coaches pose with samples of their new kit, in the company of - Cyron Clarke (2nd from left back) and Stephen Walrond (3rd from right back) - local co-ordinators on behalf of the donors.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 25.

Sports

Numerical order THERE WAS that period of apprehension moving into the 2000 era. Fears of computer related chaos, caused by the alteration of the digital order added to the panic.

Some prophets heralded the fulfillment of doom, and the atmosphere was rife for destruction.

Twenty years later, the adjustment continues, not for an impending technological debacle, but the impact of Covid-19.

The health factors are creating its tool, but the more drastic effect is yet to be assessed. That entails counting the economic costs.

Sporting professionals have absorbed the outcome, for even though events are happening behind closed doors’ in large measure, activities overall have scaled down.

The fan following which served as valuable foreign exchange has reduced. Towards year end, there were signs of a gradual easing of the restrictions surrounding Covid-19.

But there is no place for complacency. The decline in travel was necessary and precautionary, for no one intends to be foolhardy about their very health. With the absence of plane seats owing to reduction of flights by airlines, the situation is compounded.

The protocols are driving up travel costs, and there are severe implications. The need for extensions on restrictions is causing citizens to consider ways of circumventing the impositions and they are trying to use the festive seasons as an escape route out of the crisis.

But that approach has the potential of creating a backlash, and some countries are finding that out with the increase in cases in their domain.

There is an example here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines where two prisoners opted for a jailbreak on the home stretch to the Christmas celebration.

The thought of having two dangerous suspects on the loose in one’s neighborhood is not leading to a situation of safety. The escape may have coincided with a decision by the International Olympic Committee, to include break dancing on future Olympic competition.

Those Vincentian ‘break out’ artists may have visions of getting ready for the 2021 show piece, but by the look of it, their chances of taking part may, or shortly will have vanished.

Federations, organisations, and world bodies are experiencing losses in revenue owing to the entire scenario. Income from television rights may not be enough to keep the machinery rolling, so players have been forced to forfeit chunks of their previous earnings.

As the pattern rolls over in ever cautious details, there is need for regular updates.

Persons have to be flexible in their dealings, and there must be the willingness to compromise to unfolding situations. Even after new arrangements will have been constituted, there will still be the need for adjustments.

There are also factors of psychological considerations. That spreads across the board, and assessing the prevailing conditions is of importance to everyone involved.

There are also aspects of personal internet. For as much as there must be a level of teamwork in any enterprise, there are those individual issues that must be addressed.

The world has been thrown into a state of upheaval. If Covid 19 was not enough, the region kicked up with the dengue fever almost hand in hand.

Fortunately, we have been spared any devastation by hurricanes. With other climate factors hovering heavily in the atmosphere, the case of vigilance is applicable more than ever.

But the situation calls for everyone’s input.

Any other method will be inadequate.

Hard Hitters: New TBPO Champions

Travis Britnol Scott Cumberbatch – scored the most wickets most runs in HARD HITTERS were crowned new Hitters, Trevin Baptiste bagged 3 in the the 2020 champions of the National Lotteries for 6 and Anthonio Barber 3 for Tournament.

Tournament.

Authority TBPO T20 Cricket, when 31. individual they defeated Sunset Strikers by 28 Earlier in the third place play awards, ……. Britnol Scott with runs in the finals played last off, Out ah Trouble beat Nice 228 runs and Sunset Strikers’ Sunday, at the Dauphine Playing Radio clinchers by 9 wickets.

Travis Cumberbatch with 18 Field.

Clinchers batted first and made wickets were recognised as the The eventual champions took 97 in 18.1 overs. Out Ah Trouble Tournament’s highest run-getter first knock and made 118 for 9 in raced to 102 for 1 in 11 overs; 20 overs. Kerwin Williams led the Westrick Strough, 45, and Kurton and highest wicket-taker respectively. batting with 37. Bowling for Lavia, 36; leading the successful Ronike James of All Stars, who Sunset Strikers Jobarri chase. took 18 wickets and scored 69 Cunningham took 2 for 7, Travis Hard Hitters received $3,000 runs, was adjudged the Cumberbatch and Danroy Hazel 2 and two trophies for winning the Tournament’s MVP. for 15 each. title. Sunset Strikers walked The most promising young In reply, away with $1,500 and a trophy for player was Adonis Phillips.

Sunset Strikers the second place. Third place Out The tournament’s centurystruggled to 90 Ah Trouble received $1,000 and a makers were also recognised: all out in 19.1 trophy while forth place team Saleem George - 128 not out; overs. Stein Nice Radio Clinchers received Britnol Scott - 106 not out; Sunil Joseph top $500 and a trophy.

Ambris 103 not out; and Terrance scored with 23.

Challengers took home the Sutherland -103 not out.

Bowling for Hard award for being the Most The teams’ MVP’s were as Disciplined Team. follows: Ron Adams - All Stars; Kerwin Williams of Hard Kerwin Williams Hitters was the MVP of the finals. Ronike James - Challengers; - MVP of the Okeiph Andrews — Clinchers; And when the time came for finals.

Nickie Antione - Fairbaine Chennar Strikers; Rokeem Roberts —Fairbaine United; Ovando O’Brian - Gomea Bombers; Kerwin Williams - Hard Hitters; Winston Holder — Dr. Thomas Injectors; Ronald Scott NEW New Level; Renrick Williams - Novice; Rohan King Older Boys; Kurton Lavia - Out Ah Trouble; Romel Ollivierre Rangers United; Shamic Roberts Sion Hill Tallawah; Delarno Woodley - Smashers; Travis Cumberbatch - Sunset Strikers.

I.B.A.ALLEN Hard Hitters - New TBPO Champions

ÂTBPO needs new faces,Ê King CURTIS KING, Minister of Education and Parliamentary Representative for West St. George in which the community of Belair is found, has issued a stern warning that the survival of the Executive Committee of the Top Belair Progressive Organisation (TBPO) depends of an injection of new faces.

King, himself a member of Curtis King the Committee and one of the delivered his pioneers of the TBPO Softball maiden address Cricket Competition, made his as Parliamentary feeling known during a brief Representative address at the closing of the for West St 2020 Edition of the NLA/TBPO George, to a Softball Cricket Competition, TBPO cricketlast Sunday. related function.

“I appeal to the persons in and around the community to come on board for the continuity of the committee.

Part of the Tournament’s survival is the constant rejuvenation of the organising committee. We need more volunteers to assist with the running of this

Competition,” King told the large crowd at the Dauphine Playing Field.

And as far as the playing field, King, who is a first time representative of the constituency, posited that, “This playing field, (Dauphine Playing Field) is the Mecca of sporting activities in the constituency, and we look forward to its continued development…. so that we can continue to provide for the sporting and entertainment needs of persons in this community (Belair) and by extension, the wider constituency,” King said to indications of strong support.

And as far as the TBPO Softball Competition is concerned, King had no ‘water in his mouth’ when he declared it the leading softball competition in the country; one that has had various degrees of sponsors and sponsorship through the years, until its level of organisation and consistency led to a more lasting sponsorship from the National Lotteries Authority.

“Thanks to the sponsors, there was real need for new faces if the competition is to keep going”, King reiterated.

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2020. 27.

Classifieds

LESLIE WILBERFORCE JACOBS Friday, 4th December, 2020 Calliaqua Methodist Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

VICTOR CORNELIUS ANTOINE a.k.a. Monster or Bigtic Sunday, 6th December, 2020 Evesham Seventh day Adventist Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Windsor Cemetery

GARRY ANDREW WHITE

WENDELL MARLON ANTROBUS

Wednesday, 2nd December, 2020 6W *HRUJH¶V Cathedral Kingstown Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: 6W *HRUJH¶V Cathedral Cemetery

Saturday, 5th December, 2020 Faith Deliverance Church Redemption Sharpes Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

SHIRLEY YOUNG Sunday, 6th December, 2020 Langley Park Church of Christ Georgetown Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

DELCIE SMITH DOUGLAS Saturday, 5th December, 2020 St. James Anglican Church Layou Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Layou Cemetery

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER

11, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.50

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

NIGHT OF BULLETS: ÂWRONG MAN SHOT,Ê SAYS RESIDENTS

by KENVILLE HORNE

MANY RESIDENTS in the community of Redemption Sharpes are of the opinion that the shooting death of Colmore ‘Shortman’ Edwards on Tuesday night in that community, was a case of mistaken identity.

Residents described what unfolded as a scene “straight outta de movies.”

A vehicle (sedan) pulled up in front of a shop located just above the Sharpes Playing Field. Four masked men carrying what appeared to be

Lamont ‘Dutchie’ Hector’s bullet-ridden vehicle - an indication of the number of shots fired at him and his party.

semi-automatic guns, exited the vehicle and entered the shop.

According to one of the persons in the shop, the men held the customers in the shop at gunpoint and “dem ask way the man dey?”

They had come, it seemed, in search of a particular person.

Meanwhile, Edwards, who operated a food stall next to the shop, having ceased business for the day, was packing up to leave.

A witness said he was helping Edwards with his packing when the gunman approached. On seeing the gunmen, the witness took refuge in the shop but Edwards ran away from the scene.

“When one of the gunmen saw ‘Shortman’ running, he look in the direction he ran, then I see the

person followed him, then I heard about seven loud shots,” another witnessed told THE VINCENTIAN. Following the shooting the gunmen returned to their vehicle and sped away.

Edwards — simply a nice fellow.

Edwards was described as a friendly and generous person and many persons are upset about his killing.

“Ah the wrong man dem kill,” claimed one resident.

It appeared that the intended target of the gunmen was at the shop moment before the shooting.

“The man look down the road and see a vehicle coming and ease out the shop,” said one person who was at the shop during the shooting.

Edwards was the father of two children. Originally from Petit Bordel, he was currently residing in Kingstown Park.

He once worked on a cruise ship and also spent a number of years in Canada.

On his return, he worked in Union Island as a chef at the Fairview Hotel and Cobblestone Restaurant in Kingstown.

Malachi Cyrus had only recently found new employment and had already impressed his employees with his welcoming personality.

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

Colmore ‘Shortman’ Edwards was, according to the sentiments of many, an affable, generous man who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

But, close associates said that he most of all enjoyed selling his food outside the shop above the playing field.

“He use to sell roast pork and chicken and two burger for $5. He kept the vibes going and was very cool,” said one person to the agreement of many others.

“The man was really nice and if he ain’t get all his food sell, he would just share the remaining on the block,” the person further claimed.

Colmore Edwards’ death was listed as the 31st homicide for the year.

Continued on Page Continued from

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.