The Vincentian PDF-14-09-2018

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.37

www.thevincentian.com

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RAPED AND MURDERED;

COMMUNITY IN DISBELIEF Stories by KENVILLE HORNE VILLAGERS IN THE COMMUNITY of Lower Questelles, are in a state of anger and disbelief following the brutal death of one of their own.

The body of Yolande McMaster, also known as ‘Crazy’, was discovered by a young man, who went to pick limes in a yard, on Monday 10, sometime around 8 am. An autopsy revealed, that McMaster was raped and suffered blunt trauma to the face and back of her head.

Continued on Page 3.

The area where Yolande McMaster’s body was discovered.

YOLANDE FOUGHT HARD; SAYS SISTER L-R: Yolande McMaster and sisters Sharon Ollivierre and Pearl McMaster in happier times.

PEARL MCMASTER, the younger sister of Yolande McMaster who was raped and murdered in Lower Questelles between Saturday night and Sunday morning, said that her sister struggled with alcoholism, but was a special person who did not deserve such a horrible death.

“I just want persons to know that Yolande was a special person. Yolande was kind, helpful, jovial, and everybody in the village knew her for that, and she battled alcoholism,” said Pearl, during an interview with THE VINCENTIAN newspaper on

Tuesday, adding that her sister was also one to put up a fight. “She was a fighter, and she fought her demons of alcohol, and she also fought perpetrators over the years.”

She revealed that her sister had been attacked more than twice, and she would always fight; but it wasn’t to be this time. “I think she has always been taken advantaged of because of her drinking.

Nonetheless, Yolande was a human, and she did not deserve to go the way she went,” said Pearl.

She said she and her sister were very close, although they

took two different paths. “I was the one who had to pick up Yolande more or less, and she wasn’t afraid to come to me. She could have been hard-headed, we knew her for that… but as I said, it was a sickness.”

Recounting the last time she saw her sister, Pearl said that Yolande left home on Saturday for a funeral in Clare Valley. Prior to that, she was at home for almost three weeks in a sober state.

“There were times she will be sober for two or three weeks, sometimes a month, and after that, she would start back to

Continued on Page 3.

Yolande Mc Master.

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2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Winner Deryck Bushay with Digicel Marketing Reps.

Vermont resident wins $1,500 Supermarket Sweep from Digicel LONGSTANDING DIGICEL customer Deryck Bushay, was all smiles on Tuesday, September 4th, after taking home the biggest grocery shopping haul of his life.

The father of three, qualified for the

supermarket shopping spree after participating and winning in Digicel’s Text to Win Promotion for the month of August. The promotion saw both prepaid and postpaid customers texting “SPIN” to 6789 for a chance to win. Having been ranked number one at midnight on August 31st, Bushay automatically won the grand prize of a $1,500 supermarket sweep at the Sunrise Supermarket in Arnos Vale.

On the day of the shopping spree, Bushay Bushay, as he prepares to run was given two the supermarket aisles. minutes to get as many items as they truly need and possible in his shopping cart and at the end of the appreciate.”

The Vermont man allotted time, he had picked up items totaling said this is his third time winning in the Text to only $599. However, Win promotion, Digicel’s Marketing explaining that he first Executive won XCD $2,000, then Jamisha Wright allowed the winner to go $1,500 cash, with his third being this back into the supermarket sweep. supermarket aisles to Bushay, who works as a pick up all that he security guard, said, wanted in order to fully “The groceries could not maximise the $1,500 have come at a better spend.

Wright congratulated time, after spending so much money to ensure Bushay, stating that, my kids have all they “All Digicel promotions need for back to school. are designed to make customers feel as happy As the breadwinner of and satisfied as he is. It’s your family, you need always rewarding to give help sometimes, and Digicel was here to help back and see customers me this time. Thank you, being given the opportunity to win things Digicel.”

Bushay gathering as many items possible at the supermarket sweep.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 3.

News 3

Raped and murdered; community in disbelief Continued from Front Page.

Due to the state of decomposition of her body when it was found, it is believed that she was raped and killed sometime between Saturday night and Sunday morning.

A trail of blood inside the yard, pieces of wig on the ground, beads from a bracelet, as well as a wall containing blood stains and a piece of galvanize, were some of the signs that confronted investigators who turned up at the crime scene. It is believed that McMaster was attacked and killed after leaving a shop in Lower Questelles where she was hanging out with friends.

Wicked, cruel and cold, are just some of the adjectives that were used to describe the deceased killer/killers, by villagers who also described her in the opposite.

Sissy Matthews, a very close friend of McMaster, described their relationship as a mother and daughter relationship, with her (Sissy) being the mother, since she was always there for Yolande, especially when she was in a state of drunkenness. She was one of the last persons to see McMaster alive, since they both left from a funeral in Clare Valley on Saturday and went to hang out at the shop.

This was their usual liming spot, located a short distance from where McMaster’s body was discovered.

She said that when people would scorn McMaster because of her drunkenness, she never treated her in any ill manner, hence the reason they were so close. She said that McMaster always tried to make people happy. “She was always making everybody joyful, but one

thing with her, she don’t listen. Besides that, she was friendly, kind and good,” Sissy told THE VINCENTIAN. She said after hanging at the shop for a short while, she told McMaster that she was going home to change her funeral clothes, and if she wanted to go and change her funeral clothes, she can do so as well. “She say she ain’t ready yet, because out here was crowded with people as usual,” said Sissy, adding that McMaster also told her she would return the following morning.

She went to the shop on Sunday morning expecting to see McMaster, but she did not show up, prompting her to ask persons if they had seen her; but no one did. She thought to herself that McMaster was probably at home doing something.

Sissy said that on Monday while hanging at the shop she was told by her son-in-law, that he saw a body in a yard where he had gone to pick some limes. He said that the body was lying under a piece of galvanise. Persons then informed a police officer who lives next door about the discovery, and he informed his colleagues.

“When them say the person wearing a black long mouth shoe, my whole body started shivering, because I know she was wearing that shoe on Saturday,” said Sissy.

“Them cruel and wicked, everybody know ‘Pankerthing’ (another nickname for Yolande). If I did not go home and drop sleep, I don’t believe this would have happen, because when I leave, she had to leave,” said the grieving friend.

Renold Young, a fisherman from Lower Questelles and a close friend of McMaster, said that he and other

fishermen from the area were camping out in Bequia when they received news of her death. Young, who claimed that he is a relative of the deceased, said he felt very bad about the incident. “I feel bad for her, is more than one time them harassed her, using the occasion when she is intoxicated to make their move. She don’t trouble nobody at all,” declared Young.

Other persons in the area described the deceased as a very friendly person who was sometimes taken Friends of Yolande McMaster, Including Sissy Matthews (second from right) advantaged of sexually, when drunk. One person and Reynold Young second from left. even did jail time for circumstances assisting with the raping her. Persons who left to go home.

The police in a release, surrounding McMaster’s investigation. Her death saw McMaster before she said they are death, and that someone brings the number of was killed, said that she investigating the is in police custody homicides to 24 for 2018. was not drunk when she

Yolande fought hard; says sister was discovered, the police had already cordoned off the area to drink for another three weeks. conduct their investigation, after She told me she was going to the which she was asked to identify funeral, and I told her don’t go the corpse. and drink, try come home after “My sister was unrecognizable; the funeral”, said Pearl, as the the left side of her face was last advice she gave her sister. bloody, she was already The family, including Yolande’s decomposing, she was swollen, mother, did not see her come and I was only able to identify her home Saturday night, but were by her ring, and a tattoo on her not too alarmed, since she right arm with the name of her sometimes showed up late. They first son. After that, all I could became concerned, however, when have done was come home,” said she did not show up on Sunday.

Pearl.

“Up to the Sunday night, I She is of the opinion that realized something was wrong.

Yolande knew her killer/killers, This is not like her. I have to go and also believes that she was and find my sister,” said Pearl. killed by someone who sexually She opted not to attend work molested her in the past. “Yolande on Monday, choosing instead to has gone through a lot over the look for her sister. She decided to years, being molested and check with the hospital in attacked right in this village.

Kingstown first, to find out if her Some were reported, some not sister had checked in; and if she reported, and it pains my heart. I hadn’t, she would go to the police am hurt, I am angry, I question to file a missing person report.

God, I don’t know when I can “By the time I dropped my come to the place of daughter off at school, I received understanding why they did this,” a call to say that a body was said Pearl, adding that her sister found in Lower Questelles. I knew was not one to be in conflict with right away it was my sister, so I others. made my way straight to She is also dispelling any Questelles,” said McMaster, rumors that her sister was drunk adding that as she approached when she met her death. “I want the place where her sister’s body to state that my sister was not Continued from Front Page.

drunk on the day she was killed.

We were actually supposed to go to church anniversary the next day, and she chose not to drink, based on what I have heard,” said Pearl. Persons who saw Yolande hanging out at a shop on Saturday night, before she was killed, and with whom THE VINCENTIAN spoke, also attested to Pearl’s claim that her sister was not drunk.

According to Mc Master, when the autopsy confirmed that Yolande was raped and beaten, “I knew she fought them. She always said to me, ‘Pearl, they would have to kill me, because I would fight them’. So said, so done,” said Pearl, breaking down in tears.

She said that she loves her sister and that she would miss her dearly, but the family is strong. Yolande’s first son recently went to pursue studies, and her other son just entered Secondary School. According to their aunt, the family is providing support to them.

Yolande attended the Kingstown Anglican School, and reached as far as Form 4 at the Emmanuel High School now JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School. She was 47 years at the time of her death.

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4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Woman convicted after foiled security breach

SUSAN SAMUEL, a woman who attempted to enter the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court earlier this year with a big pair of scissors in her handbag, was convicted and fined $250 last week Tuesday.

The Redemption Sharpes woman was allowed until Friday, September 7 to pay the fine, with an alternative of two weeks in prison.

Samuel had pleaded not guilty to, without lawful excuse, had in her possession, in a public place, an offensive weapon, to wit, a pair of scissors.

However, following a trial at the Serious Offences Court last week Tuesday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne found Samuel guilty.

She was unrepresented.

The action of Police Constable 503 Donna Kennedy, who was performing duties, in uniform, at the entrance of the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, around 9 a.m., March 5, turned up the weapon during a search of the woman’s handbag.

PC Kennedy told the Court, in her evidence, that the pair of scissors was found under an ashma spray, tablets and a piece of cloth.

The officer was conducting searches as part of her duties.

Kennedy said that the scissors was found and shown to Samuel, whose response was, “Is me grandson throw it dey”, but denied knowledge that it was there. She further said that her grandson was the only one who could have put it there.

In a statement to the police, after she was taken into custody, Samuel said, “I did not put it there, my grandson would have put it there”, adding that she and the child were the only persons in the room at the time.

Evidence by a police officer attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), revealed that the woman’s grandson could not have been interviewed because he was only one year old.

Samuel had earlier said under crosssexamination by Prosecutor Renrick Cato, that the child could walk, but cannot talk.

Samuel opted not to testify from the dock, saying that the statement she gave to the police was correct, and she wished to stick to it as her evidence.

But the Prosecutor contended that she was not speaking the truth.

“You want this court to believe that your oneyear-old grandson took up a pair of scissors of that size and weight and throw it in your bag?” Cato asked the woman.

“Yes please”, the woman replied.

But the prosecutor continued, “I am putting it to you that on that day, no grandson put any scissors in your bag.

“The only reason why you tell this court that your grandson put that scissors in your bag is because he can’t talk”.

Cato noted that Samuel said up front, “Is me grandson throw it dey”, but in a statement to the police subsequently, she said her grandson “would have put it there”.

The Prosecutor insisted, “You know that it was in your handbag because it’s heavier than a normal scissors.”

In her summation, the Chief Magistrate said that in the first place, Samuel had no lawful excuse, as it was irresponsible and negligent to have a sharp object in reach of a little child. But the Magistrate rejected the woman’s story.

“I believe that you will never put your scissors in a way for your grandson to reach. I believe that you are more responsible than that, and I am not buying the grandson story”, Browne concluded.

She said, however, that she did not think a custodial sentence was appropriate, and imposed the $250 fine.

Bar chief needs full story delivered September 3, was copied to the Bar President, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett and Commissioner of Police (Ag) Colin John.

The story, headlined ‘Lawyer for murder accused writes Prime Minister,’ was carried on Page 4 of THE VINCENTIAN, Friday, September 7.

In a letter written to, and received by this reporter on Tuesday, Wyllie said he had not Rene Baptiste, yet gotten a response President of the local from the Prime Minister; Bar Association. but the Bar President expressed her support for Stories by HAYDN his letter to the PM, and HUGGINS said she would speak to the Acting Commissioner PRESIDENT of the local of Police on the issue.

Bar Association Rene However, when Baptiste says she intends to seek further information contacted on Wednesday, the Bar President told on attorney Michael THE VINCENTIAN she Wyllie’s claim that his client Dwayne Walker was did not and could not support or oppose detained beyond the 48Wyllie’s letter to the PM hour stipulation by law because so far, she had before being taken to Court on a murder charge. only received Wyllie’s side on the issue.

Wyllie had written to Baptiste said she Prime Minister Dr. would have to speak to Ralph Gonsalves on the the Commissioner of issue, and the letter, Police (Ag) which she dated September 1 and

was yet to do, in order to get more information on the matter. She added that she would also have to make further inquiries by speaking to legal practitioners who practise in the Criminal Court regularly, as she does not practise Criminal Law. She would also seek dialogue with the Senior Prosecutor, Adolphus Delpleche.

THE VINCENTIAN had contacted Commissioner of Police (Ag) Colin John on Tuesday, but he said he did not think the issue was one on which he should comment publicly.

Wyllie had told THE VINCENTIAN September 4 that Walker was taken into custody and detained around 10 a.m. August 28, and should have been charged and taken before the Court by 10 a.m August 30, but he was not brought before a Magistrate until 1:45 p.m. August 31.

Wyllie pointed out that Chapter 172 Section 35, subsection 4 of the Criminal Procedure Code, revised edition of the Laws of SVG 2009 states that, “When any

Attorney Michael Wyllie. person is taken into custody and detained he shall be brought before a Magistrate’s Court in the earliest time practicable, whether or not the police inquiries are complete, and in any event, within 48 hours”.

Walker, a 40-year-old farmer of Layou, is one of the three men who are charged with the murder of 27-year-old Carson Warner of Questelles, whose body, with chops to the head and other areas, was discovered at the foot of an embankment at Layou around 8:30 p.m. August 25.

The others charged are Phil Dover, 32 of Layou and Rayl Bowens, 25 of Questelles, labourer and mechanic respectively.

Wyllie is attached to the Law Firm of Fredericks Attorneys

Youth jailed for gun, ammo possession CHIEF MAGISTRATE Rechanne Browne continues to send a strong message in relation to firearm related offences, as she sentenced 25-year-old Kimron Peters of South Rivers to three years in prison on Wednesday, for possession of a .45 semi-automatic pistol, without licence.

Peters also received a one-year sentence for possession of seven rounds of ammunition without licence. The sentences will run concurrently.

Peters pleaded guilty to both charges, on his return to the Serious Offences Court Wednesday.

A police patrol, headed by Constable 334 Mozart Harry of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), intercepted Harry at McKie’s Hill, Kingstown around 12:47 in the morning last Saturday.

The facts revealed that Peters was in the company of two other men, walking in the public road.

The officers stopped, alighted their vehicle, identified themselves as police officers, and requested a search to which they consented. Nothing illegal was found on the others, but the .45 semi-automatic pistol, loaded with seven rounds of ammunition, including one in the breach, was found in Peters’ waist.

When cautioned, he said, “Oh gawd, Harry, ah mine. Ah beg you pardon please”.

Peters told the Court on Wednesday, he had the gun for his protection, due to circumstances. He begged the Magistrate to impose a fine, saying that he was young and trying to change his life.

In sentencing, the Magistrate highlighted the seriousness of the

offences, the prevalence of firearm related offences here, and the sentencing guidelines of Kimron Peters. the Appeal Court in relation to matters of this nature.

Browne noted that Peters was caught with the weapon around 12:47 in the morning in an area which is usually lonely at that time, and when persons are in their beds. She also noted that he was in the company of two others.

She, however, gave him credit for the remorse he showed from the time he was intercepted. She also took into account his early guilty plea, and that he had no previous convictions before the Court.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 , 2018. 5.

Court

“Really painful”, Magistrate cries Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS THE APPEARANCE of young men on criminal charges at the Serious Offences Court every day, could be very painful for Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne who presides over that Court.

Browne expressed her feelings before handing sentences in a gun and ammunition matter involving 25-yearold Kimron Peters of South Rivers.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne.

“I would like to see a reduction of healthy young men coming before the Court. It is really painful”, the Magistrate lamented.

Browne pointed out that “There is no pleasure at all, in having to hand down sentences in these matters, adding that she would rather see these young men engaged in nation-building activities.

Youngsters remanded on robbery charge TWO YOUNG men are expected to return to the Serious Offences Court today (Friday) for bail review on a robbery charge.

Kimron Peters, 25, of South Rivers and Seagre John, 19, of Ottley Hall, are charged jointly with using a gun to rob Euiton Wilson of Twenty Hill of a black cellular phone with a Digicel sim card and EC$200 in cash. The incident allegedly occurred in the Kingstown Hill area around 12:10 am last Saturday, just minutes before a police patrol intercepted and found Peters in possession of a

loaded gun at McKie’s Hill.

Peters and John appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, but were not required to plea to the robbery charge as it was laid indictably.

Peters was also charged separately with possession of a .45 semiautomatic pistol, without licence, and seven rounds of ammunition. Those charges were also laid indictably, and Peters was not allowed to plea to them then. He, however, returned to the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, and pleaded guilty to the gun

and ammunition charges, as they were reduced to summary matters.

When the men appeared before that Court on Monday, Crown Counsel Karim Nelson had objected to bail on all three charges, on the grounds that the police were carrying out further investigations, and the Prosecution believes that the youngsters could interfere with those investigations, if released on bail. He asked that the men be remanded for two weeks, pending the completion of those investigations, but the Chief Magistrate remanded them until today.

Ganja man jumps from moving truck DALE LORAINE, a 39-year-old labourer of Fancy, who tried to elude a police patrol by jumping from the back of a moving truck, with a large quantity of compressed marijuana, was fined $6,000 at the Serious Offences Court on Monday.

Loraine was ordered to pay the fine

by November 23, with an alternative of nine months in prison.

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne handed down the penalty after he pleaded guilty to possession of 3,760 grams of marijuana with intent to supply.

The Court heard that around 8:30 p.m. June 15, a mobile patrol of police officers from the Rapid Response Unit (RRU), headed by Station Sergeant Nolan Dalaway popularly known as ‘Grandpa’, saw the truck travelling from Fancy in the direction of Owia.

The patrol had passed the truck,

but swung back, on instructions from Dalaway, to check persons on the vehicle.

Loraine jumped out of the truck, dropped a knapsack, and began to run.

He was caught and the knapsack retrieved. It was opened, and found to contain a number of taped packages which when cut open revealed marijuana.

When cautioned, Loraine told the police, “I work with a man and he gave me them”.

Loraine was taken into custody, and the herb was weighed, amounting to 3,760 grams.

When the Chief Magistrate asked him on Monday, why he should not be sent to prison, he said, “I have two kids (children)”.

The Magistrate asked, “You thought about that when you jumped from a moving truck?”

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6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Regional

Caribbean countries searching for fuel suppliers Heads of Government for a number of countries in the region met with CARICOM Secretary General, Irwin La Rocque to discuss the issue of purchasing fuel from extra-regional suppliers.

IN THE WAKE of the closure of Trinidad and Tobago’s state-owned oil refinery, Petrotrin, Guyana and several other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states are scrambling to buy fuel from extra-regional suppliers, Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge said Monday.

“The Caribbean prime ministerial subcommittee looked at this matter and examined a couple of options that were available, and they asked the relevant experts and ministers to explore the matter urgently and to advise,” he told a news conference.

President David Granger, St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves; the Prime Minister of AntiguaBarbuda Gaston Brown, Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and the Secretary General of CARICOM, Irwin La Rocque participated in the subcommittee meeting.

He also indicated that CARICOM was on the verge of abolishing the 40 percent Common External Tariff (CET) in order to avoid a spike in fuel prices at the pumps.

When Guyana purchased fuel from Trinidad and Tobago, the CET was not applicable in keeping with the regional single market rules, because the fuels were produced by a CARICOM member

state.

“There is a recognition that the barriers to importation from elsewhere is partly a fiscal barrier. In other words, it arises from the CET and the ministers agreed that, in the circumstances, the Common External Tariff will have to be waived and the other sources will be explored,” he said.

As far as fuel sources are concerned, the Guyana Foreign Minister said governments were considering purchasing from the United States or fuel storage facilities in Antigua and Jamaica.

Industry experts have also added that there are storage facilities in St. Lucia, Puerto Rico and Statia.

Remarking on the “special constraints” facing Guyana, he said his country’s “own storage capacity is relatively limited”.

Greenidge said CARICOM leaders have been mandated to deal with the supply of fuels with “urgency”. “No time frame was set. Urgency was required, so I don’t think it was necessary.

They just know they have to come back quickly. There is not to be a delay arising from what would normally be required, namely COTED (Council for Trade and Economic Development) and CET. That would not be a constraint,” he said.

Across in Grenada, Leader of Government

Business in the Lower House of Parliament, last weekend informed the legislature that CARICOM member nations would have to take immediate steps to ensure there is a continuous supply of fuels.

With the closure of the bankrupt Petrotrin, he said SOL and other suppliers have asked for the removal of the CET. The Grenadian lawmaker reportedly cautioned that purchasing fuels from outside of CARICOM

would result in increased fuel prices.

PM Gonsalves announced last week in Parliament, that government would be

applying for a waiver of the CET to allow for local gas suppliers to access product from outside the region. (Source: Demerara Waves)

Guyana to decriminalize small amts of marijuana PRESIDENT David Granger said, while government would be taking steps to remove jail terms for small amounts of marijuana for personal use, concerns have been raised about potentially increased marijuana smoking at a time when steps were being taken to curb tobacco smoking.

“Our health experts were concerned that, on the one hand, we are moving towards reducing smoking in public places and elsewhere and discouraging smoking in all sectors of the population, at the same time there is a movement to encourage the use of marijuana; so I think there is a contradiction there,” he said in response to a question on whether government would now add marijuana smoking to the tobacco legislation.

The Guyana government decided to amend the Narcotics and Pyschotropic Substances Act before year-end, to remove mandatory jail terms for small amounts of ganja for personal use, based on recommendations by a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Marijuana Commission presented to regional leaders at their summit held last July in Jamaica. However, the

Guyanese leader said Guyanese President government would still be announced his pushing an agenda to government’s discourage all forms of intention to smoking. decriminalize small “From a health point-ofamounts of view, our government, our marijuana, but has Ministry of Public Health is raised concerns still inclined to discourage among some smoking of all types of advocates working substances- tobacco or to get people to marijuana,” he said.

The President did not rule stop smoking. out the possibility of sentences for marijuana being added to the such narcotic offences because it tobacco legislation to prohibit ganja was leading to overcrowded jails. smoking in public places, but added Director Prisons, Gladwin that there was no plan to do so at Samuels recently welcomed this time. “What we do know is that government’s decision to amend the the use of marijuana would not, law to provide for non-custodial after the legislation is passed, incur sentences for small amounts of custodial sentence,” he said. marijuana for individual use, saying The Alliance For Change (AFC) it would reduce the prison component of the governing population and the cost of feeding coalition had since 2016 called for and accommodating inmates. softer penalties for the possession of Samuels has, however, marijuana for personal use. recommended stiff penalties for law However, Granger’s A Partnership enforcement officers working at the for National Unity (APNU) part of country’s jails and caught with the coalition had appeared reluctant marijuana in their possession. to do so, even after a Commission of Prison guards have in the past been Inquiry into disturbances at the arrested with marijuana in their Georgetown Prison had possession inside the jails. (Source: recommended no custodial Demerara Waves)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 , 2018. 7.

News

No lay-offs THERE ARE no plans to lay Prime Minister Dr off workers at the Glossy Ralph Gonsalves, by way Bay Marina in Canouan. of an announcement in

Spaces made available PRIME MINISTER Dr Ralph Gonsalves said that space has been made available at the Canouan Primary School for the 30 or so primary school-aged students at the Pelican Primary School.

Gonsalves said in Parliament last Thursday that government is obligated, under the Education Act, to provide education for children ages 5 and up.

He further stated that for the 11 or so preschoolers, there were three other pre-schools on the island that would be able to admit these toddlers.

The operators of the Pelican Primary School and Coral Reef Preschool and the management at Glossy Bay Marina Ltd (GBML) are currently embroiled in a court battle.

The schools are located on property owned by Dermot Desmond and GBML and built by the Canouan

Parliament last week Thursday, said that he had been informed that

Resorts Development Holdings and another investor, Andreas Pignataro.

Both parties are no longer on amicable terms, and a request has been made for the schools to be removed.

Nothing was done; however, GBML had raised the issue and now wants the facility removed to accommodate more development on the marina.

An injunction was then sought to deny GBML from removing the school, and was expected to be heard on September 11.

According to Gonsalves, Godwin Pompey, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry which also oversees Grenadines’ Affairs, convened a meeting with all the relevant stakeholders some weeks ago, and they were informed that space was available at the Canouan Primary School for the students who may become displaced.

“In other words, we will fulfill and satisfy our obligation, so if tomorrow we are told that they want the spaces, the spaces will be there,” Gonsalves said.

He also said that the idea of utilizing existing teachers from the Pelican Primary School was shut down, and that he was advised that teachers were on standby in case any were required. (DD)

Bad eggs will be kicked off RECRUITS not making the cut during training, will not be enlisted into the police force.

This as Legislators are expected to vote on a Bill, known as the Police (Amendment) Bill 2018.

The Bill had its second reading during the last Sitting of the House on September 6, but Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday interjected, saying that members of the Opposition received a copy of the final draft late and were therefore not in a position to contribute to a debate.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, under whose name the Bill was put forward, explained that the amendment to the existing Police Act makes way for a new category within the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) known as a police recruit.

Gonsalves explained that as the situation currently existed, an individual becomes enlisted from the time they begin training.

But it was expressed by those among the hierarchy of the Force, the present and those in the past, that individuals only become enlisted after

successfully completing training.

According to Gonsalves, there may be an individual who is brilliant, performs drills well and is good at marksmanship; however, their attitude may indicate that they ought not to be enlisted, and the amendment allows for the Commissioner to terminate the training of a recruit.

“It is felt that enlisting should take place at the end of the training,” Gonsalves said.

The amendment also extends the probation period from 18 months to two years.

“To have a longer look,” the prime minister said.

“I expect that all who are recruits, would be enlisted at the end of the successful completion of the training.

But it affords an opportunity for an objective system and assessment, to see if the individuals should be allowed to enter,” Gonsalves added.

The Bill follows on a comment made

by Commissioner of Police (Ag) Colin John during a radio interview, that there were some involved in activities that were unbecoming of a police officer. (DD)

there was a news item stating that employees at the marina were going to be laid off.

“I got in touch with Mr Desmond (Dermott Desmond) and he assured me that this is not the case,” Gonsalves said.

The Prime Minister said that he was also told that there were plans to hire more people, as they were hoping to further develop the facility.

“Which is a different thing to him telling people to go home.”

“So, I want to clear the air on that, because I

L-R): Dermott Desmond, investor in the marina project on Canouan, shares a light moment with Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves during the opening of the Glossy Bay Marina in April, 2017. was told that there were reports that Ralph must sort this out. Well, we have sorted out what our obligations are, and those obligations are satisfied,” Gonsalves said.

The multi-milliondollar facility was opened in April 2017, and has been earmarked for further development.

(DD)

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8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial Noise: A public nuisance to peace and quiet With all of the justified concern about violent crime in St Vincent and the Grenadines, it is only understandable that other prominent social issues can sometimes slip under the radar.

One such issue is the persistence of what can only be regarded as a public nuisance, which is not only not going away, but is becoming worse.

We write here about the prevailing climate of noise in public, turning what used to be a relatively quiet country into a virtual den of loud noise in which amplified music leads the way.

The situation had grown so bad that there appeared to be little respect either for religious worship, though to be fair, some churches were among offenders, nor for times when the bulk of the population would normally get sleep and rest. Not even educational institutions were respected either.

It had prompted authorities here to pass a Noise Act to try and control the situation and restore some sense of sanity, peace and quiet. Regrettably, the lack of enforceability of the Noise Act resulted in it being just another one on the statute books, a law in name only. From time to time when the matter got out of hand, public complaints would result in official warnings about a crackdown on offenders. A random check of our records for instance for September 2014, reveals Police Inspector Hawkins Nanton warning offenders to comply with the Act. The situation has gotten immeasurably worse since then.

Inspector Nanton’s warning was then aimed mainly at promoters and organizers of parties, fetes and other events where loud music was played. Today we have added to that the public transportation system, privately operated mainly by mini-vans with huge powerful sound systems.

While these are among the main offenders, they are by no means the only ones, or even the worst.

Private vehicle owners have multiplied the din, often rivalling the vans in level of decibels, and no respecters of time of day or night, location or occasion. The focus on mini-vans may be thus unfair but understandable in the context of our country.

They are the hub of the public transport system, carrying

passengers of all ages. At the extremities would be the elderly and young children, both more susceptible to be affected by the loud sounds. Additionally, in spite of the designated school buses, the mini-vans still carry a substantial number of school children to and from school, and are hugely popular with them. Being bombarded with loud music on the way to school, not to mention the content of the music, would hardly seem to be ideal preparation for a day at school.

Recently, public pressure seems to have forced the authorities to respond to public concerns. Having announced an intention to enforce the Noise Act, the Police have successfully prosecuted at least one driver, and have indicated that this operation will not just be restricted to capital city, Kingstown, but spread to nonurban areas as well.

Yet there are signs that the operation is far from as robust as it sounded. After an initial toning down of the sounds, especially at the start of the new school term, offenders are back to their old tricks, and the highways and byways are once more inundated with blaring music. The contradiction seems to have come to the attention of Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves for, in addressing Police officers this week, in reference to the Noise Act, he is reported as saying that “not because they may not work at the Traffic Department, it does not mean that they should turn a blind eye to traffic offences that are committed or any other offences for that matter”.

We can only hope that this advice is taken seriously by all police officers, for enforcement of the Act cannot be left up to the Traffic Department alone. As far as vehicles are concerned, they pass police stations with music blasting, day and night.

Community policing must be undertaken, for it is not only personal security that matters, but peace and quiet too.

Moreover, for drivers to be disregarding the warnings and continuing to blast music, represents not only a violation of the law, but open defiance as well.

That open defiance and lawlessness are contributing to a breakdown in law and order with deadly consequences. We cannot afford to ignore it.

The Ganja Saga: A moral dilemma (Pt 2) This was published over 20 years ago and might be useful in the current ganja discussions.

MY MECHANICAL DEFENSES collapsed only three years ago with a visit to the city of Amsterdam in Holland.There, people could buy ganja over the counter in coffee shops. Indeed, in a horticulture shop, I saw marijuana seeds in transparent plastic bags marked with instructions “How to grow your own cannabis.”

Yet, Amsterdam displays far fewer junkies, proportionately speaking, than there are in straight- laced cities with stiff upper lips. And independent evidence suggests that marijuana smoking does not necessarily pave the way to hard drugs.

Indeed, the explanation for the apparent progression is that, on discovering the lies told about marijuana, youngsters sometimes believe that the warnings on hard drugs are equally false, to their eternal peril.

So I began to reflect seriously and honestly. For instance, I recalled that an old Indian Matriarch of the clan of Deanes in Akers had once told me that her family unit regularly smoked ganja in a chisum (a sort of elongated peace pipe) which was passed around the folk gathered in the yard after a hard day’s work.

Apparently, this pastime was done as a communal ritual and, in the absence of nocturnal social activities, served mainly as an inducer to a good night’s rest.

And I remember entertainer Stilly Fraser claiming that the young rasta type hardly patronized his bar: a pepsi costing one dollar was bought and nursed to accompany a spliff which, priced at another dollar, provided “the high” that was necessary for the evening’s enjoyment. In short, ganja offered kicks on the cheap.

Indeed, the versatility of the plant knows no bounds. When Kantrin Norris wrote her powerful booklet on Jamaica’s Search for an Identity in 1960, she noted that it was small wonder that Rastas attributed magicoreligious qualities to ganja, for it generally kept them happy and relatively healthy despite their aggressively hostile environment.

To a lesser but still real extent, Marijuana performs a similar role among the disprivileged folk in St. Vincent. But a major attraction nowadays is as a moneyearner in a depressed economy.

Simply stated, St Vincent is ideally suited for the growing and export of marijuana. The activity is illegal under the law of the land, and a burning question surrounds the continuing criminalisation of the traffic in ganja.

Certainly, ganja is officially grown in the U.S.A. for medical purposes. In some States such as California, the laws are liberal if not

permissive.

Violence and Marijuana smoking have never positively correlated except in a circular argument. The mystery and illegality surrounding the plant led to an artificial high price, protection of turf, and violence to prevent detection and betrayal.

For whatever reason, however, the U.S does not want Caribbean ganja to enter its shores whither it is drawn by an insatiable market. It would invoke the Shipriders Agreement to shoot up fields in the islands which it cannot do on home territory. And the U.S. itself forces Caribbean people to move to ganja by seeking to block our banana European market.

Even the staid and conservative Prime Minister Owen Arthur of Barbados has formed the view that the Shipriders Agreement should include a clause that ties it to a favourable banana regime.

Meanwhile, U.S helicopters are getting ready to wipe out local marijuana fields.

The country is on the horns of a dilemma.

Farmers have been forced virtually to die living within the law, or to live by flouting the law. It is a hard choice.

Perhaps the time has come for some serious dialogue and the making of harsh and realistic decisions. Increasingly, it appears as if there is a culture lag, with the law trailing decades behind social realities.

The law has urgently to do some catchingup by, at least, liberalizing and “easing the jib”- in the words of the Prime Minister in another context.

After all, the tobacco interest in the US can pay a licence fee of US $20 Billion to destroy thousands of smokers. On no account can marijuana claim such notoriety.

And one has to beware “scientific research”. Did not the Soya bean lobby “scientifically prove?” that the coconuts contain dangerous levels of cholesterol?

This is not a call for marijuana planters to cry hardship if in truth the drug is medically dangerous and morally repugnant. One will not in similar circumstances defend the practice of prostitution which is the oldest profession the world has known. The line has to be drawn somewhere.

We make a simple call for a freezing of the status quo an official policy of “benign neglect” which winks at slight infractions, while we revisit the total situation and take stock, before getting our act together, in our own interest.

At the least, this calls for the putting on hold of the planned bombing of the ganja fields by helicopters of the US whose policies threatened our vital banana trade.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 9.

Letters

Crossdressers – Crossing the Line

AT CALLIAQUA, a strutting crossdresser catapulted homosexuality and our society into the spotlight.

It seems young lawyer Llewellyn was right when on radio, she told Vincentians there was a difference between “acceptable” and “tolerable” behaviours.

Suddenly, the crossdresser and all of us became fully aware of that difference.

We are privileged to enjoy all the interactions which living in a society affords.

But from the time we agreed that the survival of society was more important than the survival of the individual, the right of personal preference became subject to sanction and denial. The degree of this control of personal preference depends on the society you happen to live in.

The work of Anthropologist E. Westermarck found that

African Natives were the least tolerant of homosexuality. In fact, this taboo was worse than the taboo on incest.

Today, we still deeply share our forefathers’ detest of both. Especially that part of homosexual behavior labeled pederasty, which is the nasty exploitation of a minor by an adult homosexual for economic gain. In the recent past, police investigations here caused some practising pederasty to flee abroad.

Today, I see some of them smugly back in high places; always the “white collar” gets away.

Vincentians are primarily Christians of African stock, and I believe any discussion “beneficial” to the plight of homosexuals here will get nowhere, except with the passing of new laws.

So, it is a smart politician who will

downplay that parliamentary step.

A friend of mine raised the idea of legislation against skin bleaching.

Another pointed to the Philippines’ legal payment of husband’s salaries to wives to avoid squandering. Nothing is wrong with such thinking, if such problems are harming the society. Morality simply relates to behaviours society permits and there are right and wrong answers to moral questions. Yes, it is possible for individuals, even entire nations, to have beliefs and desires that lead to needless human

anything until it is too late or politically expedient.

In closing, hats off to the CCTV camera initiative. Perhaps the vantage points of the disused traffic lights may be of use in this gathering of visual evidence that can help the public.

JW

Today’s religions’ reality and crisis HAVING conducted a census on modern day pastors/preachers, only

The trouble with lies JEREMIAH 28:15-17 New International Version (NIV) 15: Then the prophet Jeremiah said to Hananiah the prophet, “Listen, Hananiah! The Lord has not sent you, yet you have persuaded this nation to trust in lies.

16: Therefore this is what the Lord says: “I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the Lord”.

17: In the seventh month of that same year, Hananiah the prophet died.

Woe! Be unto you prophets that prophesy lies, saying thus saith the Lord God, when the Lord did not give you a word.

You Spiritual Leaders of Churches, before you invite someone, who say I am prophet, first do a thorough investigation on them, for ever so often, these men come to our country and to the local churches and lie to the congregation or an individual and even about our country. Some of these men only preach about money, they take your altars and raise their own money, saying sow a seed. Is the church about making money? God forbid, how dare we make the House of God like a den of thieves?

Give reference to the scriptures in Jeremiah, Repent or you will die, telling lies will kill you! Prophesying lies over a country or people can make the people worse, telling lies or fables is a sin and eventually death,

suffering. On morality, small developing nations cannot just blindly follow the big nations.

Just as there is a body of expertise on scientific facts, so there is the domain of the moral specialists. Is it not this moral authority which the Bible and other books expound? But when talking of morality, we value difference in opinion more than in any other subject. Truth is, on morality, not every Joe who has an opinion should be counted. Some have no moral talent whatsoever.

There are no vast differences in methods of how to fight the spread

of diseases, or how strong buildings are built. There is general agreement on the important issues, with public concern uppermost. Similarly, we cannot be afraid to legislate morality.

Personal freedom to act in public cannot be allowed to score questionable benefits for a few. If a set of values is not good for all members of society to practise, then such values should come under very careful censorship.

I do not support assaulting persons, and the crossdressers at Calliaqua could have been killed. Then some would say this loss of life could have been prevented. There are societies where it is unlawful to wear pants that expose your butt crack and underwear in public. But here, things happen in the public domain, and no one does

Hananiah the prophet misled Judah with lies, the penalty was death.

The trouble with lies: Cain tried to lie his way out when God asked for his brother Abel. What happen to him? (Cain). Rebecca and Jacob lied to Isaac in order to steal the family blessings from Esau, the result was family estrangement and hostility which endured for generation. Think about families in SVG; is the same thing happening.

Joseph’s brothers sold him to some Egyptian slave traders then lied to their father Jacob, made him to believe Joseph was killed by a wild animal causing him (Jacob) profound heartache. Potipher’s wife lied about Joseph’s attempt to rape her, ‘this unjust action landed him in prison.

David plotted Uriah’s death when he tried to cover his affair with Bathsheba, his deceit caused the death of his son and constant conflict with his family.

Peter denied knowing Christ, bringing shame and sorrow on himself; Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Church and the holy spirit about their financial gift, bringing on themselves untimely death.

Jesus spoke clearly about the nature of lying when he declared that lies are of the devil. Jesus is the source of all truth, and those who practise speaking the truth demonstrate that they belong to Him. Bishop Ezekiel Creese Faith Word Ministries - Roseau

9/100 have read or heard of these ancient holy books, viz KJV the holy bible, Douay (Catholic bible).

The Macabee’s bible, The Knox Bible, Pilgrim’s Progress 6th & 7th book of Moses, (why 6&7th book not in the KJV) Book of Knowledge, Israelite Secrets, The Lost Book of the bible, also why the donay has more book than the KJV which of the two were printed first, and how the Church of England came into existence.

Many are they who shall try to deceive you, using my name, believe them not, I have overcome them, I have made an angelic heavenly abode with no rules or commandment, 1/3 of them rebel against me, thus I cast them out of heaven. In so doing, I exposed my earthly creation to evil temptation which had a command ‘Thou shall not;’ death awaits all who disobeyed.

God placed humans on earth to multiply, dress and keep it clean and live in health and happiness forever. They lost that privilege by disobeying, thus causing God to give man a reprieve, and gave his only son Jesus Christ as a ransom, a just, for an unjust to pay the price of man’s sin. This arrangement was made

in the garden of Eden between God, Adam and Eve and the angels as witnesses. Christ while awaiting the hour of his atonement made a two group covenant: 1. The little flock, who will follow him, die for him, and not defiled by women and ; 2. The great crowd those who will accept the redemption dead done by Christ, and kept his covernant and laws, they shall enjoy the mansion he went to prepare for them here on earth, while the little flock will receive crown and throne in heaven.

Preachers of today are promising all righteous persons a place in heaven, ‘a big fat lie’ (Rev. 21) Rev 7:4 tells of the number of those sealed with the seal of God. Christ said, In my

fathers (house) there are many mansions, and I go to prepare one for you, which he did the (New Jeruaslem) a house can’t hold a mansion, a kingdom can both.

I have read all of the books mentioned, and have done magic from the 6&7th of Moses, Israelite secrets, and others. God turned Moses’ rod into a serpent, Pharoth magician did it too, and they were doing that long before Moses came on the scene.

It is time these modern preachers stick to the plan of salvation in the garden between God, Adam and Eve. When the truth is hidden, morning stays long to come.

Hutchie

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10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Diplomatic relations with Taiwan continues Walk for jobs and against crime

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES established diplomatic relations with the Republic of China on Taiwan under the Milton Cato-led St. Vincent Labour Party administration in 1981. Over thirty-seven years of this relations, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines benefitted immensely through a transformation in various sectors such as agriculture, health, education and infrastructure development. In 2001, the Unity Labour Party strengthened these relations and continue to recognise Taiwan as a sovereign state.

It is pivotal for us to recognise two significant contributions Taiwan made to the people and development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines — the construction and completion of the Rabacca bridge and the Terminal Building of the Argyle International Airport, which itself is a bridge linking St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its people with the global community.

However, despite the strengthened relations and tremendous contributions the Taiwanese government made to the government and people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, in uplifting and transforming lives, the ungrateful New Democratic Party, led by then Opposition Leader Mr Arnhim Eustace in August 2016, announced that they are no longer interested in having diplomatic relations with Taiwan. This policy move by the NDP is because they have adopted and recognised the “One China Policy”, thereby seeking interest in establishing diplomatic relations with mainland Communist China. This position by the NDP was reaffirmed by the current President and Opposition Leader Dr Godwin Friday in September 2017.

and capital city. That will surely alleviate the burden from poor families who have difficulty in meeting transportation expenses from such a far journey, and also transporting them safely to and from their destination. It is the policy and principle of the ULP, that no child should be hindered from getting an education due to their family’s economic situation.

Additionally, in science, technology and agriculture, we have seen tremendous contributions from the Taiwanese government, with recent contribution of twenty- four pieces of agriculture equipment, the installation; testing and training of the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) to digitize information in various government departments. That will improve efficiency and management so that ordinary Vincentians can receive better service and easier access to information from the government.

On infrastructure development, we must be grateful for Taiwan’s assistance in building a US$28 million terminal at Argyle International Airport that is benefitting Vincentians all over the world.

This has made it easier for all to travel to the United States directly, and in December this year we will see for the first time, American Airline flying directly from Miami to SVG. Also, this week, we saw the Taiwanese contribution to the rehabilitation of the Rabbaca Bridge that has made it easier for everyone living above the dry river to ULP Stands by Taiwan travel even on a rainy day. No longer do persons above the dry river have to fear We in the Unity Labour Party stand when it rains, as to whether they can go to with any country that places “people” at work or that their child has to stay away the center of its developmental strategy. from school. It is no wonder today we are After all, the philosophy of the party is seeing more persons above the dry river that of social democracy, meaning buying more vehicles than ever before and empowering and building people through building better homes, all because of the social programmes and initiatives while construction of the Rabacca bridge. This is enhancing democratic values and something very transformative before our principles. Therefore, the ULP reaffirms very eyes; and yet the NDP opposed it. its support to the government and people As the saying goes, “ungratefulness is of Taiwan in strengthening our relations, worse than witchcraft”. NDP’s and to use this relation between both ungratefulness knows no bounds. This is a states to build and empower both of our political party that lacks principle of any peoples. kind. In 2017, current Opposition Leader, The benefits that we in St. Vincent and Dr Godwin Friday said “NDP still the Grenadines received from the maintains its support and their government of Taiwan are too numerous commitment to the One-China policy.” to mention, but there are some that stand This is not surprising as the NDP only out when speaking of real change and sees money since China is giving away transformation since the strengthened millions and billions to various states relation under the ULP administration throughout the Caribbean, with tight from 2001. Since the inception of the strings attached. It is said globally around Taiwan Scholarships Programme in 2004, the world, that when China gives money an initiative of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph to States, they take your Ports, such as Gonsalves, 143 Vincentians have enrolled Customs port and even Airports as in degree programmes in Taiwan from repayment, once you have difficulty these scholarships, which have brought paying. We, in the Caribbean, were closer ties between the people of the two recently cautioned by President of Taiwan, countries. It must be mentioned that the Tsai Ing-wen , during her visit to Belize, programmes are offered in areas of that “Not everything that has sugar is science, technology and social sciences. sweet”. We have to be careful not to let the Today, a recipient from this programme, NDP sell us to the highest bidder as Mr. Kenton Chance, started SVG’s first commodities. online news website. He is a journalist In conclusion, it is self-evident that the whose training and education in Taiwan ULP is the only way forward as we under this programme helped him to use continue to deepen our relations with the it in making a living for himself. He also government and people of Taiwan in the has the ability to speak two languages. interest of “people development”, bring Furthermore, in 2016, through the real transformational change in all aspect Foreign English Teachers (FET) of life, whether social, cultural and Programme, Vincentian teachers now have economic through health, education, the opportunity not only to teach in technological and infrastructure Taiwan, but also to explore Taiwan’s development. The NDP continues to show culture. Miss La Toya Williams became their disdain and disregard for longthe first Vincentian to teach English standing fruitful friendships developed under the FET programme and continued over thirty-six years with the people of her teaching in Taiwan for three Taiwan. Can you imagine if the NDP consecutive years. This year, we saw Miss treats our close, long-standing allies in Marva Rodney, a longstanding teacher for this regard, the manner they will treat over thirty years from the village of Rose you if they suspect you are not for them?

Hall, being the second Vincentian to teach Let us continue to press forward and show English at a school in Taiwan. the NDP that Taiwan is here to stay, by Moreover, we saw the Taiwanese remaining and continuing to support the contributions in terms of eight school Unity Labour Party and its policies to buses that will help transport students ensure continued positive from rural areas to schools in both rural transformational change in SVG.

ON SATURDAY, September 8th, the New Democratic Party (NDP) completed the first leg of its walk for jobs and against crime, from Fitz Hughes to Kingstown. It was an historic event because it is the first time in the history of St. Vincent and the Grenadines that a political party has engaged in such an activity to highlight critical issues that are affecting the populace. Indeed, it is a creative and novel initiative. The main objective of the walk is to heighten awareness of the worsening crime situation and the high level of unemployment in the country. The second leg of the walk will be on Saturday 15th September from Georgetown to Kingstown.

During the walk, the leadership of the party was able to interact with party supporters and other members of the public who lined the streets in the different communities to show solidarity with the NDP. It was an outpour of love and appreciation from the people. They commended Dr. Friday and his executive highly for an excellent initiative to raise the awareness of the crime and unemployment situation in this country. Most of them also expressed their dissatisfaction of the manner in which the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime is attempting to tackle the crime situation, and the failure to create jobs for Vincentians. The chant from those persons was ‘More jobs, less Crime’!

Members of Parliament, candidates and executive members of the party, all expressed the importance of the walk. “The walk is really tough, and I am walking for a cause,” said the Honourabe Nigel Stephenson. He further stated that he was prepared to put his body on the line to bring awareness to the fact that crime is getting out of control in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “And unemployment among young people is too high; with an existing 46% unemployment among our youth and thousands of young people who have just graduated from secondary schools, colleges and universities joining the whole fray of finding a job that’s compounding the unemployment situation. We know that if you have educated unemployed youth, you will have the potential for an educated sophisticated criminal society, so am prepared to put my body on the line to bring awareness to the fact that crime is out of control in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We need to curb it and the unemployment situation that the government seems absolutely clueless as to what they are going to do to improve the situation and to bring hope to our young people,” he concluded.

Moreover, it was inspiring to see so many young people who joined the walk. A young democrat of North Leeward had this to say. “We need to stop the crime in the country; it’s happening too often, and too many people are dying.

Unemployment in North Leeward is too high; a lot of young people are unemployed, especially young men. They are on the streets, nothing to do. I think this initiative will bring awareness to the problems.” Thoughts of a youth; she

is among the 46% who are unemployed. The ULP regime has failed them.

Meanwhile, the utterances of a few ULP supporters made one wonder as to the message the ULP is sending to its supporters. On reflection of the walk, the Honorable Roland Matthews made the following observation: “As we walked yesterday Saturday, the 8th of September, to highlight the issues of crime and lack of jobs in our country, I was rather surprised somewhat to hear a few negative comments by a minority of fellow Vincentians. ‘Crime can’t stop’ ...’aryo ah waste aryo time’....’so when aryo done walk, the jobs coming Monday morning?’ I asked myself, ‘How did we get to this low?’ The caring spirit that once characterized Vincentians is fast becoming a thing of the past. We have become a nation that quickly ‘gobbles up’ half-truths and innuendos, and ignores the naked facts and the real truth, even when it’s staring us in our faces. Having observed these very frightening traits, I am convinced that we need an all-out attack on these societal scourges that go way beyond the boundaries of partisan politics.”

Two days later, homicide number twenty-four (24) was recorded in the constituency of South Leeward.

The parliamentary representative, Honourable Nigel Stephenson, is concerned. He opined, “The NDP, in an effort to heighten awareness of this unprecedented spate of criminal activities, embarked on a grueling walk from Fitz Hughes to Kingstown on Saturday. We were heartened by the number of people who greeted us along the entire journey, expressing their concerns about this untenable situation. We put our bodies on the line; we endured the pain so that no one else should suffer the emotional and physical pain of losing a loved one. A few ridicule us for our effort, but I remind you that crime has no face nor colour, and one day it might just visit you...perhaps at that point you will recognize and appreciate the effort of the NDP. “Couple days after, a stone’s throw away from me, the body of a female with whom I had the honour of travelling in the same van Monday to Friday when we were students, was discovered, and again a strong possibility of another homicide. Vincentians, since when has this become the order of the day? When will we see the need to play an active role in the fight against crime? Unfortunately, the question is: Who Next? The only thing necessary for crime to thrive is for good men and women like you to sit and do nothing,” Stephenson declared.

The first leg of the walk was successful, and our objective was achieved. So, join us again on Saturday 15th September, as we walk from Georgetown to Kingstown, to bring awareness of the crime situation and unemployment in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 11.

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Daring mighty things

“Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat” - Theodore Roosevelt (1858- notes the significant positive impact 1919) – 26th President of the United that companies in emerging States of America economies have had in manufacturing low cost soap, inexpensive artificial MANY YEARS AGO, while I was reading limbs, affordable eye care, small and one of the books authored by the efficient agricultural machines, and so preacher and motivational speaker Dr. on. His insights provide hope and Robert Schuller, the pointed question strategies for eradicating poverty. was asked, “What will you do if you Prahalad challenges readers to look knew that you could not fail?” It for opportunities to do things stopped me in my tracks. It caused me differently, as we seek to sustain to ponder. It made me realize that I performance and growth. This is as could have a much more rewarding life if true for those in the private sector, as I would develop a greater commitment it is for our citizens employed in the to pursuing my dreams, my ambitions, public sector and/or non-government with more passion and confidence; with organisations. We need to design and a mindset that I am less likely to fail if I implement new mental models, make the necessary plans and take shifting our paradigms, as we seek to appropriate action. Sometimes, we hold provide better quality products and ourselves back when we entertain services — doing things faster, better, thoughts of failure. On the other hand, and with fewer resources. We can we may readily appear to be much more make the world a better place when proactive when we have a vision of we accept the challenge to dare accomplishing the particular task. We mighty things. are more likely to dare mighty things Many multinational companies when we anticipate that our chances of (MNCs), headquartered in developed success are great. countries, are harnessing the brain Many of our regional academics power and imagination of citizens in have concluded that Caribbean and from developing countries. citizens have been Companies like IBM, HP and Linus, socialized/programmed to be riskhave established subsidiaries in averse. We avoid taking risk at all costs. This is especially noticed when numerous developing countries. Some we reflect on our apparent timidity in of these MNCs now have more employees outside their home relation to embarking on business ventures. Professor Selwyn Ryan and territories than they have at their home base. Among other things, this Dr. Taimoon Stewart, in their very confirms that developing countries revealing book “Entrepreneurship in have the brain power, the intellectual the Caribbean: Culture, Structure, capacity, to create and sustain Conjecture”, highlight the fact that some of our Caribbean nationals have brilliant ideas, to innovate and to dare mighty things. been socialized to avoid taking risks We need to share these success in business. We must change this stories, these valuable insights, with tendency to “always play it safe”. our citizens. We need to especially This is not to suggest that we relay such details to our young people, encourage our people to be reckless. as we challenge them to explore the Far from this. We must encourage possibilities and accept the challenge this generation to “take calculated to dream mighty dreams even if they risk” and to dare mighty things.

Innovation is not restricted to those initially appear elusive. They have just as much capacity to innovate as who reside in the developed world. anyone anywhere in the world. In There is increasing evidence that some instances, they may even have citizens of developing countries, greater opportunity to improve although not exposed to the same products and/or systems as they focus level of education or have access to on alleviating some of the burdens advanced technology and facilities, that especially plague developing are creating new products and countries. services to improve agricultural We need to create and sustain production, environmental innovative cultures in our homes, preservation, various aspects of schools, workplaces, and communities. science and technology, and so on.

The establishment and maintenance We must continue to provide our wards with evidence of this truism, as of an innovative culture will ensure that our citizens (whether they be we seek to encourage them to dare scientists, engineers, actors, teachers, mighty things.

C.K. Prahalad, writing in the 2004 poets, or journalists) imbibe and non-fiction publication “Fortune at the embrace the desire to do things better, faster, and less costly. They Bottom of the Pyramid”, provides know that some initiatives will fail, numerous examples of citizens from but that failure is not final. They emerging economies (like ours) who accept the reality that multiple dared to do mighty things. Many successes often appear at the far side have surprised the world with of failure or defeat. Such realisations inventions that enhanced various will encourage our citizens to press on aspects of life while simultaneously regardless of the detours and being profitable. He notes several setbacks. Such an attitude and companies in developing countries approach augurs well for individuals whose leaders and managers have and enterprises that focus on daring championed product improvements mighty things. that benefit local and foreign communities. For example, CEMEX, Send comments, criticisms & the Mexican cement company, has suggestions to created opportunities for providing julesferdinand@gmail.com low cost housing for the poor. He

Courts to the rescue “IT IS A THREAT that is sanctioned by the State, and that sanction is an important sanction because it justifies in the mind of others in society who are differently minded, that the very lifestyle, life and existence of a person who chooses to live, in the way that the claimant does, is criminal and is deemed of a lesser value than anyone else. Those criminal sanctions have the potential to be used oppressively by differently minded citizens as a foundation for hate as condoned by the State.” Justice Devindra Rampersad, Trinidad.

‘A law criminalizing consensual sexual conduct between adults in private, including same sex intimacy, violates the constitutional rights to dignity, privacy, equality before the law, and non-discrimination on the grounds of sex, and cannot be justified on the basis of public morality,’ Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin, Belize.

‘The court has emphatically held that fundamental rights do not hinge on the number of people who claim them. The Constitution doesn’t just protect minorities, the individual is the basic unit of the constitutional scheme. The court has thus reiterated its commitment to its countermajoritarian role.' Indian Supreme Court.

The video which showed young men running for their lives as they are chased by other young men intent on doing them harm, is a grim reminder of the dangers of bigotry and hate.

Hate and bigotry are always informed by ignorance, but when people believe that their actions are driven by the words of God, all hell breaks loose.

This brings us to PM Gonsalves’ call for the church or religious bodies to lead a conversation about homosexuality. At a press conference two Mondays ago, Gonsalves said that, while he was calling for a conversation, he is ‘not advocating that the nation’s laws, which criminalise same-sex activity, be changed… Don’t get me wrong. I am not advocating that. But if we are to build further a humane society, that is to say, a society based on humane values, that the church is the appropriate institution to begin that conversation.’

In some respects, PM Gonsalves is correct in his call for church leaders to initiate the conversation on this very emotive issue. The hatred directed against homosexuals has its origins and finds justification in the holy bible. Leviticus 20:13 teaches 'If there is a man who lies with a male as those who lie with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act; they shall surely be put to death.

Their blood guiltiness is upon them.’

Anglican Bishop Leopold Friday rejected the PM’s call, saying that it is the government who should lead because it has the role of making and leading on important public policy.

The church has a vital role to play in helping society to unburden itself of this heavy cross. The church cannot wash its hands of this important issue because people’s callousness and inhumanity are driven by what they claim to be the word of God. How are we to build a more humane society if some of us refuse to join the fight for a more enlightened humanity? Implicit in PM Gonsalves’ call is a recognition that the laws as currently constituted are inhumane

and should be changed. But a politician knows that he will be batting on a ‘sticky wicket’ if he were to openly call for an end to laws which criminalize and discriminate against a section of its population, especially homosexuals. He is mortally afraid that his opponent will exploit enlightened views.

But this need not be the case.

Rather than calling on church leaders, PM Gonsalves could engage in quiet diplomacy with the leader of the opposition on this very question. If he were to win the approval of the opposition leader on the question, a bill could be brought to parliament which amends our criminal code, removing all of the offending sections that deal with private, consensual sexual.

This would have made for an interesting debate where politicians from both parties engage the nation in a civilized conversation about equality, justice, discrimination sigma and inhumanity of laws which cause real pain and sometimes destroy the lives and careers of some of the greatest thinkers. The parliament could be turned into a classroom where parliamentarians speak of the dangers of silence on issues of sexuality in the deadly age of HIV/AIDS, the harm and havoc that ignorance inspired by ‘divine wisdom’ can have on people’s lives.

Another way to settle this matter is for one or more Vincentian citizens to follow the lead taken in Belize and Trinidad and bring a claim in the high court demanding equality of treatment and an end to discrimination and criminalization based on sexuality.

As it stands now, our criminal code allows for sentences of up to ten years for persons found guilty of various acts of sadomy. Some countries reserve the death penalty for persons engaging in homosexual conduct.

Interestingly, SVG is exceedingly permissive of lesbian conduct because men long for the day when his woman will introduce him to another woman who is prepared to join them in bed.

Today, six Latin American countries recognize same-¬sex marriage or civil unions. Eleven countries have banned employment discrimination based on sexual orientation, and seven countries protect L.G.B.T. citizens against hate crimes.

The pace of change is slower in the English-speaking Caribbean. In Belize and Trinidad, the courts are quite clear that this kind of stigma, discrimination and inhumanity cannot survive the strict scrutiny that the constitution demands. As the Indian Supreme Court properly concluded last week ‘fundamental rights do not hinge on the number of people who claim them.’ The Court was responding to the claim that only a miniscule number of Indian citizens were homosexuals.

Since the government and the church seem reluctant to tackle this issue, how might society get past it so as to arrive at a more tolerant and humane place? Our courts may have to rescue us from our darker self.

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

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12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Bequia people neglected by government and MP THE NEEDS of the people of Bequia are being neglected by the government and MP. On 3rd September 2018, Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA visited Bequia. While some areas are o.k., there are many areas of neglect, poor housing, high unemployment, unclean living environment, and poverty.

The problem in Bequia is that there has been far too much focus on tourists’ needs, and little or no focus on the needs of the people of Bequia by the ULP regime and the MP. Many households are without water and electricity. The food security situation of the people of Bequia is precarious, with a heavy reliance on food shipped over from the mainland. This food is expensive, and impoverishes poor households more as they struggle to feed their families.

One elderly gentleman in Bequia said that, as a nation, we are suffering from gross incompetence. According to him, our nation’s leadership couldn’t manage a mauby shop - they lack the ability to govern well, and rely too much on begging, borrowing and tourism. They are not moving our country forward.

Some people in Bequia believe that the yachts that used to come to Bequia now go to Grenada and Saint Lucia, because of the high levels of crime in

SVG, and poverty and destitution in Bequia. Why come to Bequia when safety and the sailing and living environment in Saint Lucia and Grenada are much better?

The government primary school near the Bequia airport is sustained by charity. The school buildings and surrounding environment urgently need upgrading for the children’s sake. Bequia also urgently needs a high-quality secondary school.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, Bequia is on the wrong path to sustainable economic development and providing a high standard of living to all the people of Bequia.

With the right infrastructure, Bequia could be virtually self-sufficient in food, water and electricity. The technology is already available for this to happen, by using innovation such was solar, wind turbines, desalination and greenhouses to provide cheaper electricity and food.

And, if the economic focus in Bequia moved away from tourism and to other economic sectors, there would be much more employment and income for the households in Bequia.

Sadly, though, for many years, the needs of the people of Bequia have been neglected by the ULP regime and the MP. Bequia needs a good clean up, a

facelift and a focus on economic development other than tourism, as that is a major failure.

Vision is needed to give the children of Bequia hope for the future. Hope and vision can make the difference in climbing to the top in education. But hope and vision alone are not enough.

Investment is needed to provide all the children of Bequia with high-quality preschool, primary and secondary education

in Bequia.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal strongly believes that tourism could never be the engine of economic growth in Bequia.

Other industries and investments are needed to provide sustainable employment and a high standard of living for all who live in Bequia. Not neglect. www.svggreenparty.org https://twitter.com/svggreenparty https://www.facebook.com/SVG-GreenParty-154937087877631/

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 13.

News

Commissioner of Police (Ag). Colin John among those checked at the Health Fair.

Flow teams up with AMSA for a healthier SVG FOR A TYPICAL VINCENTIAN, Saturdays are spent completing house chores and grocery shopping, but that was not the case on Saturday, September 8th, as members of the American Medical School Association (AMSA) consulted over a hundred patients at the Flow and AMSA Health Fair.

The health fair was held on the Flow promenade and offered a series of health services including: blood glucose & blood pressure checks, eye checks, cardiac & respiratory exams, consultations and more.

Emile Garcia, AMSA representative, said the fair was a success, after seeing about 130 patients. She noted that the purpose of the fair is to encourage Vincentians to live a healthier life and better track their health.

Expressing much gratitude for the input of telecommunications company, Flow, Garcia

Medical students from American Medical School Association were integral in ensuring the success of the fair. said the company is an collaborate with AMSA. ideal representation to According to Williams, help champion such an with the increase in the initiative. She further number of Vincentians stated that there are being diagnosed with plans to expand the Diabetes, the Flow team health fair and take it believes that it will be into other communities life changing to help with across SVG. the early detection of Meanwhile, Flow’s such ailments. She Marketing and further conveyed the Communications Lead, company’s commitment Nikala Williams said to collaborate with that she was grateful for AMSA, to facilitate the the opportunity to execution of health fairs in various communities throughout St Vincent and the Grenadines.

She said that the Flow and AMSA Health Fair was inspired by the Flow Back to School Fair, which included medical checks for kids before taking on the challenges of another academic year.

Williams said they are very enthusiastic about this drive to make St Vincentians certainly took advantage of the health Vincent healthier, one services provided at the Fair. community at a time.

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14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Seven get higher education

SEVEN STUDENTS who hitherto did not feature on the awards list for scholarships, have been rewarded for their excellence in their fields of study.

career, up to the level of a “professor of the highest distinction.”

She is on course to accomplishing her dream. She is another recipient of an Exhibition Scholarship valued at $30,000 annually.

From the Central Windward district of Biabou, her determination to advance has been noticeable from entering the St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua. Her ten CSEC subjects qualified her for the Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies.

It was at the Division of Teacher Education, however, that Jacobs found her groove and excelled in the Secondary programme.

Jacobs enjoys watching cricket on television, and has an interest in sewing.

Adelphi Secondary School.

She adheres to the Christian faith, and adopts to the teaching: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’

Shandon was in Germany at last Friday’s ceremony.

Shenika Samuel: Determined and dedicated She is one of three students who will benefit from Exhibition Scholarships worth $30,000 a year.

From the North Leeward village of Rose Bank, Shenika graduated from the Troumaca Ontario Secondary School in 2004. She considered her achievement unsatisfactory, pursued further studies and enrolled at the Division of Technical and Vocational Education in 2015. She completed the Financial Accounting programme, and in 2017, gave the Valedictory Address at the Graduation Ceremony held by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College. Shenika expressed interest in becoming a certified Accountant.

Shenika has devised her methods of advancing, and explains: “It is not how fast you can move. It is about completing the journey through dedication and determination.”

The Exhibition scholarship is fulfilment of her ambition.

Professor in the making Timeisha Jacobs has taken the learning curve as an integral part of her foundation. She advises younger students not to “squander” education.

Jacobs has her eyes on a teaching

Nothing worthwhile comes easy Janeika Straker wants to be a Certified Accountant of the highest quality. She enjoys playing netball and interacting with people of diverse cultures.

But that’s another aspect of her story. She believes that: “nothing worthwhile comes easy, including College success.”

Janeika proved the point last week Friday when she received the instruments that will allow her to pursue her ambitions. Janeika received a Bursary estimated at $20,000 a year.

It was her performance at the Technical Division of the Community College in the Business Studies programme that Janeika distinguished herself.

She gave such a good account of herself that her reward came. She was watched by her parents: Kiprene Grant and Jonny P. Starker at the presentation ceremony.

She hails from Green Hill overlooking capital city Kingstown, and had early education at Kingstown Preparatory School and St. Joseph’s Convent Kingstown.

So special There is something special about Shecania Small. She has a simple quote she abides by: “Make sure of the more important things.” That’s from Philippians 1: 19.

That instinct paid dividends last Friday, as Shecania received an Exhibition Scholarship worth $90,000 over three years.

That will allow her to accomplish her aim of becoming a Chemical Laboratory Technologist and Special Education Teacher.

Her education has been marked by passages of excellence, from the Argyle Primary, to the Girls’ High School. The stint at the Division of Teacher Education provided the basis for her reward.

Daughter of Henley and Debra Small, Shecania likes reading, interpreting American Sign Language, Latin Dancing and cooking.

Building on expanding

Adonica Bynoe-Barnum knows how to adjust to conditions around her.

That includes balancing study and family activities. She is on track to achieving her ambition in Architecture and Building Construction.

Bynoe-Barnum has that survival instinct lodged within. She is from the Grenadine Island of Bequia. She completed the Teacher Education programme with focus on TVETIndustrial Arts. Mother of three, including twin daughters, BynoeBarnon pulled out all the stops to ensure success in her Community Caring from the start College programme.

She recounted having sleepless Shandon Johnson-Dasouza is nights during her second year, for she serious about life. In that regard, she had to prepare for her Teaching is pursuing studies in Midwifery, Practicum while preparing her which she considers as vital to the existence of both mother and newborn. daughters for CPEA. There were moments of anxiety Her performance at the Associate within her, but her depth of character Degree programme in Registered prevailed. This Tuition award is Nursing earned her Tuition award at testament to her strong will. She is an $25,000 a year. excellent swimmer and has interest in Shandon had earlier stints at the sewing.

Boubou Methodist School and New

Tyeisha: An enduring philosophy Tyeisha Garraway grew up, with the inspiration of her grandmother Andrea Garraway helping. Andrea reminded her granddaughter that “the race is not for the swift…. But to those who endure to the end.”

Andrea was present at last Friday’s function, and beamed with delight with what occurred. Tyeisha opened the doors to the accomplishment of her dream on becoming an Accountant, with the receipt of a Bursary worth $60,000.

Her work at the Community College: Division of Technical Education where she finished with a Grade Point Average of 3.4, made her eligible. (WKH)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 15.

News

Need more rooms THE REOPENING of the Buccament Bay Resort is proving to be an integral piece in the St Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority’s (SVGTA) continuing efforts to attract flights out of the United Kingdom.

Glen Beache, the Chief Executive Officer of the SVGTA, said at a press conference Wednesday that they were in discussion with Virgin Airlines and British Airways, but admitted that this was a challenge because they operated differently to those operating out of North America.

“It is not as simple as saying to them (the airlines) that you would like them to come and they come; it is about the bottom line,” Beache said.

“A lot of airlines from Europe operate, based on what tour operators say. So, for example it’s not just about selling the seats, but also about selling the package,” he explained.

He further noted that the

Buccament Bay Resort and its reopening played an important role in the discussions with airlines.

It was reported earlier in the year that an agreement was expected to be signed between a new entity that was purchasing the resort and KPMG, with KPMG being the trustee of Harlequin Property SVG Limited.

The resort was closed back in December 2016.

“We do not have that many rooms.”

“The competition is tight, and it is all about the bottom line and filling the seats,” Beache told reporters.

The Diaspora played a crucial role in the negotiations, in terms of how often they travel; but Beache noted that the airlines were interested in the leisure traveller.

“It is not just about filling the seats, but the hotel rooms. The leisure traveller is more important to the airline because they want to sell the

The St Vincent entire package,” he said. and the Local hoteliers were part of a contingent to the United Grenadines Tourism Kingdom on a recent tour Authority’s CEO dubbed ‘Road Show’, to Glen Beache promote St Vincent and the spoke of the Grenadines to tour operators. importance of the It was the first of its kind, hotel sector in and the opportunity to attracting airlines showcase some of the local out of the UK. hoteliers to the tour Air operators in order to give them some Canada Rouge to offer year-round incentive to sell the product and service to Toronto beginning October destination.

25 with weekly flights.

The road show was done to show An flight is scheduled to be added already interested airlines that they beginning December 16 to April 28. were marketing the destination.

He said that they continue to But he remained confident that they discuss the possibility of more service will be successful in getting one of with Caribbean Airlines (CAL) for them to fly directly to the Argyle service out of JFK International in International Airport.

“But it will take more time than out New York, this to complement the announcement by American Airlines of North America.”

He welcomed the announcement by that, beginning December 15, they will be operating here. (DD)

We have laws THE RECENT crackdown by the Traffic Department on loud, and in some instances lewd music, is evidence that there is existing legislation to deal with offences committed on the road.

This according to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves in his response to a question posed by Senator Marcia Barnwell during the September 3 meeting of Parliament.

Terrence Ollivierre posed the question for the absent Barnwell, and asked the Prime Minister to indicate when the proposed revised Traffic Bill was expected to be enacted.

But Gonsalves responded, saying that the recent action by the police saw the lessening of the mis-conduct of mini-bus operators.

And that was because there are existing legislation, and the Commissioner of Police and the Head of the Traffic Department took the decision to enforce these laws.

He mentioned that individuals were charged and fined for being found guilty under the Noise Act. Gonsalves explained that under the Noise Control Act, there were provisions for the control of noise, including

vehicles, and the law made it clear that excessive noise is always objectionable and actionable.

There was also legislation relating to speeding.

“I always get amused by people who say we need a speed gun (radar), but the law is not written like that,” he said.

According to Gonsalves, there were designated speed limits in sections in and around Kingstown, and few other places around the country, and that based on this recommended speed limit, it was easy to determine if an individual was driving at a speed higher than specified.

With regard to the reformation of the current Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Gonsalves said that he had indicated to the Attorney General, Jaundy Martin, that it was an important piece of legislation to deal with.

A draft was submitted; however, Gonsalves said that both himself and the Minister of Transport and Works, Senator Julian Francis felt that it was not satisfactory.

They were now in the process of reviewing another draft, but, once the AG and his team had completed an improved

draft, then they will do the relevant cleaning up of the Bill.

“There is sufficient legislation to deal with the mischief done on mini-buses and on the road in general. We have seen it recently, and hope that it is done on an ongoing general manner so that we can have peace and order on the The recent crackdown by police on mini-bus operators is indication that the streets,” Gonsalves said. existing Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act can deal with the misconduct on (DD) the nation’s roads.

SVG to host Liat consultation THIS COUNTRY is to host a consultation which is expected to bring together governments and personnel from all 15 destinations that regional carrier Liat serves.

The objective of the consultation will be to discuss ways in which stakeholders can get involved in the airline’s restructuring plan as it goes forward.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said in Parliament, that an agenda had been finalized and discussions concluded on the technical committee report on Liat.

He further said that they had adopted one of the three proposed restructuring options for the airline, adding that it has the support of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) who had undertaken to address matters as it related to the restructuring plan. (DD)

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16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The renovated handrails of the Yurumein-Taiwan Friendship Bridge,

Yurumein-Taiwan Friendship Bridge renovated THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING, Informal Human Settlements, Lands & Surveys and Physical Planning, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), hosted the ceremony in Commemoration of the Renovation of the Yurumein-Taiwan Friendship Bridge in Chatoyer National Park on Tuesday, September 11, 2018.

The Yurumein-Taiwan Friendship Bridge was opened March 28, 2007, with the contribution from the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan). The construction of the bridge has facilitated the passage between two sides of Rabbaca Dry

River, and avoided dangerous trips in the rainy season over the riverbed for the residents nearby. The Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), aware of the importance of the bridge in north Windward, and thanks to the Taiwanese company Overseas Engineering & Construction Co. (OECC), the company in charge of the YurumeinTaiwan Friendship Bridge construction, for assisting in the renovation of the handrails free of charge, with the design guidance from the Ministry of Transport, Works Urban Development and Local Government.

A number of addresses were heard in the Tuesday ceremony,

including Taiwan Ambassador, Calvin Ho; Minister of Transport, Works Urban Development and Local Government, Julian Francis; and Minister of Housing, Informal Human Settlements, Lands and Surveys, and Physical Planning, Montgomery Daniel.

Among the attendees were Minister of Education, Reconciliation, Ecclesiastical Affairs and Information, St. Clair Prince; Minister of National Mobilization, Social Development, Family, Gender Affairs, Persons with Disabilities and Youth, Frederick Stephenson, and residents and students in North Windward.

The Yurumein-Taiwan Friendship Bridge was first opened on March 28, 2007, with the aid of the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 , 2018. 17.

News

Mandarin Oriental, Canouan launches Cargo 4 Kids Programme THIS MONTH, Mandarin Oriental, Canouan launched its first philanthropic programme under the umbrella initiative named ‘Canouan Cares’. The first Canouan Cares programme, Cargo 4 Kids, invites Mandarin Oriental, Canouan guests to fill their extra luggage space, spare luggage or aircraft cargo space with school supplies to be given to students in need.

Donations may include but Cargo 4 Kids Committee members, Principal not be limited to new or Rhynd and two classmates representing each gently used reading materials, exercise books, grade at Canouan Government School, during the notebooks, pens/pencils, presentation of donated school supplies. rulers, erasers, sharpeners, have the supplies they need for the crayons, basic calculators, etc.

Guests may bring items with them coming school year.

For more information about in their luggage, or ship them Mandarin Oriental, Canouan’s Cargo 4 separately to Canouan where Kids programme, please visit Mandarin Oriental, Canouan will mandarinoriental.com/canouan manage the distribution from there.

For those in the Canouan The programme has already inspired community interested in donating or generous donations from Abbott getting involved with the Cargo 4 Kids Downing, a division of Wells Fargo, and the Mitch School Box Club, a non- programme, please contact Ms. for-profit organization in the U.S that Jacquie Thomas at jathomas@mohg.com. collects and donates school and Link to information about educational enrichment supplies.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group: Thanks to their generous https://www.mandarinoriental.com/ contributions, 120 Canouan students media/press-information/

MAJ Foundation donates to clinic and pre-school THE RETREAT Clinic and the Little Eagles Pre-school, both located in the Vermont Valley, received a quantity of medical supplies/ furniture on Monday, September 10th, compliments the Michael. A. Johnson Foundation (MAJ Foundation).

The supplies which include: swab sticks, pampers, pressure machines, gloves, surgical masks, wipes, medical chairs, crutches, and small tables for the

pre-school, among others.

The care packages also included shoes and clothing for children.

Hartie Johnson, Staff Nurse at the Retreat Clinic, and Bianca Penniston, head of the Little Eagle Pre-school, both expressed their gratitude for the supplies.

The presentation ceremony was also witnessed by NA Genol Malcolm Straker.

MAJ Foundation is the brainchild of Michael Johnson of Penniston, who now resides in the USA. “This initiative is just the second phase in the foundation’s Staff Nurse Hartie Johnson accepts on behalf of the Retreat Clinic.

Bianca Penniston represented the Little Eagles Pre-School at the presentation. programme. Also on the agenda are several community outreach projects that are expected to positively impact the Vincentian social sphere,” Johnson said in a media release.

MAJ Foundation is now focusing on gathering support for toys and foodstuff for their December Vincy community service.

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18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

IICA strengthens the coffee sector in Dominica and SVG

THE INTER-AMERICAN INSTITUTE for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) recently completed the second phase of a project that provided technical support to the ministries of Agriculture in Dominica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as reported by the specialized agency of the Inter-American System for rural development. The Institute assisted in developing the commercial and production capabilities of technical specialists and producers of the coffee sector in the two countries.

IICA launched the project in 2016 in response to the countries’ request for advice

regarding the feasibility of coffee production in each country.

The technical advisory reports provided the countries with recommendations on the development of coffee as a commercial product, based on the understanding that this would involve long-term investment in matters related to production and knowledge building among interested groups in all areas of the production process.

During the second phase of the project, delegations from the ministries of Agriculture, accompanied by IICA personnel, carried out

visits to Jamaica and Costa Rica in order to study the operation and several components of the value chain.

Two technical specialists from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines visited Jamaica, where they interacted with chain stakeholders involved in industry governance. A delegation from Dominica conducted a similar visit.

Additionally, six technical specialists from both countries visited Costa Rica to study the operation of the coffee industry. They toured coffee propagation nurseries, coffee research

Technicians from Dominica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines during a visit to Finca Arias in Costa Rica. facilities, coffee farms of varying sizes and with different farming system approaches, and plants where coffee berries are processed for domestic and external markets.

The technical specialists also learned about barism, a highly specialized practice used

to evaluate coffee cup quality.

The final activity of the second phase of the project involved the delivery of two commercial coffee varieties to the ministries of Agriculture in both countries, in order to conduct research

under local climatic conditions.

Dominica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have highlighted IICA’s efforts to support the coffee sector, and have expressed interest in receiving further support.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 19.

News

Community Outreach Programme for North and South Central Police Division IN SEEKING TO FOSTER a better working and community relationship with residents, the Divisional Commander of the North Western Division, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mr. Nigel Butcher, and the Divisional

Commander of the South Western Division, Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Julia Charles-Browne, along with the officers stationed in their respective divisions, have embarked on a community outreach programme; meeting and

greeting members of the divisions, and at the same time giving a listening ear to the concerns and advice of the residents.

According to ASP Butcher, officers from both divisions made a walk-through the

community of FitzHughes, and attended a church service at the Faith and Life Pentecostal Church in Chateaubelair. Both events were well received by members of the public.

ASP Butcher went on

to inform, that during the month of September, they will be visiting the community of Vermont, along with all the schools in the division. In addition to that, there will be some sporting activities, where a police

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mr. Nigel Butcher. team with compete against a community team in sporting disciplines like cricket, football along with a Karaoke event in Chateaubelair.

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20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Four for the price of one

stupidly did.

George, I am ashamed to tell you, that my own mother was all the time sleeping with Dear George, my boyfriend, which is why she never wanted WE ARE 5 living in a twohim to leave. All this bedroom house. My time he was living in the cousin, my sister, my house, he was getting 4 mother, myself and my for the price of 1. My boyfriend. I caught my boyfriend making out with mother said she had to my cousin, and he swore it sleep with him, because he told her that if he was because he was cannot get the whole drunk, and promised it would never happen again. package deal, he is leaving, so she did it to Two weeks later, I keep things together caught him messing around with my sister. I financially and otherwise. I finally left ordered him out the house and out of my life, home and I’m now living with my aunt. I have cut but my mother begged my sister and my cousin me not to be so harsh, and to consider he is the along with my mother from my life for good. My only one working and aunt wants me to talk to paying the bills. He them, but how could I begged me again not to talk to traitors? Am I leave him and to give wrong? him a chance, which I

Deceived big time Dear Deceived, Good for you girl, walking away from that horrible relationship and such a toxic environment. You deserve better, and better is out there for you; but you have to believe that. Find a way to resolve your family differences, and I’m suggesting you get professional help to prepare you in that regard. You have been wronged, but that does not mean you should forever carry the burden of alienating your family.

Mending that broken fence will give you a level of satisfaction that’s priceless. Good luck.

George

He wonÊt give up his kidney Dear George,

Dear Bursted bubble,

I ASKED my boyfriend to consider the possibility of donating one of his kidneys to me, in the event that it gets to that, and he categorically refused to consider it. I was told that it is pretty likely that both my kidneys can fail. I was shocked to learn that my boyfriend, who said he wants to marry me sometime next year, does not love me enough to give me one of his kidneys, but yet wants to make me his wife. What if my kidneys fail after marrying him? People are saying that the only reason why he wants to marry me is to get my properties. I’m wondering if there is any truth to that.

At the very least, you know that your boyfriend holds the view that what’s his is his and should remain his. If he can be so callous and selfish as it relates to your needs versus his, then you know how he will be in the future, should things get worse.

Knowing what you do know now, take all the time necessary to assess your relationship to see if the man in question is deserving of a total commitment from you, and whether he is the kind of man who would climb the highest mountain for you. From the looks of things, it appears as though he could be well behind on points.

Bursted bubble

George

Should I let bygones be bygones?

George, do you think I should let bygones be bygones and take him back? My friend holds the view that I MY BOYFRIEND noticed some “strange” spots on my body, mainly my should. face, hands and thighs, and he Unsure immediately attributed that to me being infected with HIV. He did not even give me a chance to check things Dear Unsure, out medically! He told me he was You do not want a man in your life leaving, and packed his things and left. It has been almost 2 months since who bails out at the first sign of adversity or a challenging situation. he left, and I even heard he started Your boyfriend has proven that he will dating another woman. I went to the not stick with you through thick and doctor, and was told I was having an thin. His response to your perceived allergic reaction to something. I’m happy to say that my skin has cleared medical condition, has disqualified up and everything is back to normal. A him as a dependable partner and one friend of mine said she told him of my who will stay with you unconditionally. Move on! recovery and, according to her, he expressed regret for leaving me like that, and hinted that he wanted back. George

Dear George,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) You can make a huge difference to children if you are able to put yourself in their shoes. Financial gains can be made through wise investments. You will have a tendency to exaggerate, which will lead to major confrontations with loved ones.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) A passionate encounter with your mate should help alleviate that pent‐up energy.

Try to enlist the help of those you trust in order to fulfill the demands being made of you. You should avoid getting involved in the personal problems of colleagues.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) You can make it up to them later. Join a club to work off that excess energy; but consider ways of doing that without spending the money. Moves will be hectic but favorable in the end.t along with.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You can spend a passionate evening with someone you cherish if you make your plans early. Go to the top if you're being harassed or held back. If you're uncertain of your feelings, keep your opinions to yourself.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) You will have a tendency to exaggerate, which will lead to major confrontations with loved ones. You'll stay out of trouble if you pick projects that will benefit the whole family. Don't turn down offers that include sports activities or children.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Plan events like camping or white water rafting. Toning, fitness, pampering should all be scheduled. You can learn from those who have had similar experiences.

Look into career choices and courses being offered.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) You must take care of health problems that have been lingering. A little overtime may help you reduce the workload. Your health may suffer if you don't control your present situation. Use your head and do things to your liking.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Look into ways that you can make extra cash. You haven't been watching your spending habits and you may have been neglecting your duties. If you take on too much of a financial burden you may make yourself ill. Avoid conflicts with in‐ laws or other family members.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Avoid any over indulgences. Don't be too eager to spend money that you really don't have. You can make headway in the workforce if you put your mind to it.

Get involved in groups that can offer intellectual stimulation.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Take care of yourself or you can expect to suffer from minor illness. Accept the inevitable. Talk to superiors about problems that you feel are getting out of hand. Put your efforts into making changes to your domestic scene.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You could have a need to make some changes this week. You are best to do something energetic with friends instead. You should avoid getting involved in the personal problems of colleagues. Be careful if a friend asks you for advice.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You need to challenge yourself. Past partners may try to come back into your life. You'll look guilty if you don't lay your cards on the table. You will be appreciated for the competence you exhibit and for taking on responsibilities.

ACROSS 4. Tap gently 8. Pearlescent 11. Agitate 13. Long‐tailed rodent 14. Processes of fossilization 15. Greek goddess of strife 17. Move through the air 18. Mountains 19. Ages 21. Very skilled person 22. Naïve person 24. Annoy 27. Greek goddess of the earth 29. Unwell 31. Son of Jacob 33. Clublike weapon 35. Notion 36. Encourage in wrongdoing 38. Musical composition 40. Christmas song 42. Ireland 43. Bit 45. Talisman 49. Highest mountain in Crete 50. Dove sound 51. Speculative 52. Something that is owed DOWN 1. Not read 2. Energetic activity 3. Spout 4. Twofold 5. Wan 6. Shoulder scarf of fur

7. Rendezvous 9. River in central Switzerland 10. Idiot 11. Noah 12. Mischievous child 16. Obstacle 20. Former name of Thailand 21. Curve 23. Solicitude 25. Sledge 26. Small yeast cake 28. Continuous dull pain 29. Revised form of Esperanto 30. Put down 31. Brand of

polyester fiber 32. Dweeb 34. Scolding 35. Is not 37. Japanese gateway 39. Filled pastry

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 21.

crust 41. Public swimming pool 44. Prohibit 46. Frozen water 47. Weep 48. Having a high temperature

V No limits on scholarships 22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Students at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College don’t have to worry about the cost of university education, once they have the qualifications for direct entry. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves threw out the offer last Friday at Glen where the Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies is sited. The

Division of Teacher Education is also within that confine. The Division of Technical and Vocational Education is at Arnos Vale, and the Division of Nursing Education at Largo Height in Kingstown.

Prime Minister Gonsalves used his life as an encouragement to the students to embrace university culture.

He recounted his University career from his Bachelor’s degree in Economics 1969, Masters in Political Science: 1971, and Doctorate secured with the attainment of a scholarship to Manchester University in England. He boasted about having served as Research Associate at Makerere University of Uganda for his doctoral

dissertation on the topic ‘The political economy of Trade Unions and Industrial Relations in Uganda 1950 to 1971.’

Gonsalves endorsed the UWI, in light of concerns raised over the worth of Associate Degree programmes offered here.

The Vincentian Prime Minister pointed to the value of these

programmes, and advised that they were accepted regionally and internationally. He regarded the studies as measures which can reduce the time spent on Campuses abroad.

Seven persons were rewarded for their performance at different Divisions of the Community College.

The Prime Minister referred to the availability of opportunities for study to students from all of the four Divisions.

“Resources are available. Get your direct

entry,” he insisted.

The Vincentian leader emphasised the money spent on education from primary to university, including economic cost, scholarships, grants, and bursaries.

He threw out the offer to the audience which included students from all Divisions, and stated “there are no limits on scholarships.” He urged them to attain the standards required, and promised that as many as achieved the bench mark, they will be provided with opportunities for studies.

CCTV helping police with investigations Continued from Backpage. female regarding the offence, prompting police to launch an investigation into the matter. During that investigation, the police were able to acquire footage from a video being circulated on Facebook, showing a female being attacked by a male assailant in the said area.

The video footage making the rounds on social media, showed a young man at an apartment building located near the beach at Indian Bay. Partially hidden by a wall, he is seen looking in the direction of the beach where a woman can be seen near the water, a dog frolicking nearby. She can further be seen coming from the beach, accompanied by the dog. The unsuspecting young woman walked past the area where the young man was hiding, only to look around when she realized the young man was running in her direction. He then attempted to grab her, but she fought back.

The young man can be seen pulling her into a secluded area where she continues to put up resistance. In the video, he was seen falling to the ground, as a result of what looks to be a kick from the woman. After a short period, where neither of them is seen on video, he seemingly realizes he was overpowered, made off with her phone, grabbed a bag he had placed nearby upon his arrival, and fled.

The general public is hereby informed that 18year-old Terrano Samuel of Troumaca, is in custody, assisting the police with their investigation into the matter.

The Commissioner of Police (Ag), Mr. Colin John, expressed thanks to the public, for providing valuable information, which led to the arrest of Samuel.

Following the recent release of the CCTV footage, persons are calling for more CCTV cameras to be installed by both the private sector and the government to assist in the fight against crime.

V Vincy Heat succumbs to Nicaragua in Qualifiers

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 23.

his players “7 out of 10”, although they were defeated by the Central Americans.

Assessing the match, Huggins said: “(The) first half was not that good…

There were some bits and pieces …More negative than positive”.

The SVG Head Coach thought that, his team had placed themselves in a hole, by giving up an “easy” goal.

“When you have a team like that and you let go such an easy goal, that sometimes kill the momentum of the team”, The Vincentian defence trying to keep out their opponents’ strikers, in last Huggins evaluated.

Saturday’s Nations League Qualifier.

Huggins had apportioned the second Inset: Vincy Heat’s Head Coach- Cornelius Huggins at last Saturday’s post half to the injection of match conference. new players and a Some tardy defensive However, St Vincent easiest, missing from six renewed energy.

“You could have seen a work by the Vincentians, and the Grenadines yards out. little bit more energy … let in Henry Nino, who made two substitutions More pace was We were looking better DESPITE PLAYING in front easily scored in the 27th at the stroke of the introduced as Trivis going forward, more an appreciative home minute of play. second half, replacing Fraser was brought in purposeful”, he said. crowd last Saturday at the Juan Barrera doubled defender- Kevin Francis for Azhino Solomon.

It was Nicaragua’s Arnos Vale Playing Field, the Nicaraguans’ tally in with Jalen Miller, while Fraser, who is a first win over St Vincent St Vincent and the the 39th minute, when teenaged Diel Spring was student of the and the Grenadines at Grenadines Senior Men’s he was called upon to inserted in place of Barrouallie Secondary the senior level.

Football team, commonly just tap the ball from Wendell Cuffy.

School, was able to When the two called Vincy Heat, bowed four yards out, after the The double changes outrun the Nicaraguan countries met in the to Nicaragua, 2-0, as both left side of St Vincent added some purpose in defence on a few teams kicked off their and the Grenadines’ the Vincentian attack, as occasions, but he, neither CONCACAF Zone’s World Cup Qualifiers in Nations League Qualifiers defence was found to be several forays were made his team mates, seemed campaign. wanting. on the Nicaraguan goal. able to change the score- June 2004, St Vincent and the Grenadines held The hosts started The score line St Vincent and the line. the Central Americans to poorly, allowing the remained the same at Grenadines were guilty Speaking after the a 2-2 in Nicaragua, but visitors to take the upper the end of the first half, of spilling clear cut match, Vincy Heat’s won the return leg, hand especially in the 2-0 in favour of chances, with Chavel Head Coach- Cornelius which was staged at the midfield.

Nicaragua.

Cunningham, gifted the Huggins, said he gave

Arnos Vale Playing Field, resulting in a 4-1 win for the Vincentians.

St Vincent and the Grenadines’ next match in the Nations League Qualifiers, will be away to French Guiana on 11th October. French Guiana was able to blank Anguilla 5-0, last Friday.

St Vincent and the Grenadines will be hosted by the Turks and Caicos Islands on 11th November, and will host Bonaire on 22nd March, 2019, in their other matches.

The top six teams from the qualifiers will be joined by Mexico, USA, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, Costa Rica and Honduras, who made it to the Hexagon stage of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers, to form League A of the second phase.

Meanwhile, teams finishing seventh to twenty-second, go in League B, while those finishing twenty-third to thirty- fourth are placed in League C. The positions of the teams are determined from their aggregate from the qualifiers.

The ten top teams and six from the Hex, will compose the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2019.

Cyclists melt down in Sunday morning road race AN 85-MILE RACE for the Elite cyclists and a 65-mile distance assigned to the Masters, last Sunday morning, resumed the SVG Cycling Union’s 2018 calendar.

But the sweltering heat took a toll on the participants, with two forced to abort the event.

Those who stuck it out and who had no mechanical damage, made it to the finish line, with the mid -morning sun at its peak.

Topping the Elite bunch was Zefal Bailey in four hours 34 minutes 05 seconds.

Placing second to Bailey, in five hours 06 minutes 21 seconds, was Albert Quammie, and completing the podium finishers was Sherwin James, who timed five hours 20 minutes 09 seconds.

Elite cyclists who failed to complete the race were Enroy Lewis, Samuel Lyttle and Delano Wilson.

While Lyttle suffered mechanical damage, Wilson and Lewis, who was making a return after a four-month layoff, found the race too demanding.

Also suffering mechanical failure was Peter Durrant, which left Martin Bollers to be the lone competitor in the Masters Category.

Bollers, although complaining of the extremities of the heat, revelled in the fact that he was able to top the Martin Bollers making his podium, in four hours 53 way to the finish line in last minutes 24 seconds.

Sunday’s race.

All cyclists rode from the SVG Automotive Gas Station on Bentick Square to Langley the island. From there, they Park on the Windward side of journeyed back to the Round

Elite Category Podium Finish: Zefal Bailey (centre), Albert Quammie (left), Sherwin James (right).

About in Arnos Vale, then to Diamond.

The Elite cyclists were required to loop from the

Round About to Diamond four times, while the Masters did so twice. All cyclists finished at Casson Hill.

V

24. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Rugby Sevens Squad announced A 13-member Rugby team has been selected to represent this country at the 2018 RAN Sevens Tournament, taking place on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd September, at the Barbados Polo Club, Holder’s Hill, St. James in Barbados.

This year’s tournament compromises 14 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams from across the region.

The international competition will be a men’s and women’s qualifier for the 2019 Pan American Games, and 2019 Hong Kong Sevens. In the first round of matches, SVG face Cayman Islands, Trinidad and St. Lucia.

The team will be led by Brian Alexander and includes: Dellon

Durrant, Kit Horne, Giles Garraway, Schefild Samuel, Justin Tittle, Recardo Dallaway, Shane Samuel, Jonte Bowens, Godfrey Matthews, Benson

Nanton, Dugal SVG Rugby team James and Shanto Fergus.

Stories by I.B.A ALLEN

De Roche, Howard win Stanley’s TT Title AKEIL DE ROCHE and Caleb Howard clinched the first spot, when the Sean Stanley Table Tennis Academy held a Doubles Tournament on Saturday 8th September at the Tennis Center (West St. George Secondary School).

DeRoche and Howard beat brothers Mirac and Michel Creese in three sets Akeil De Roche and Caleb Howard, Doubles Champions.

11/7, 11/9, 11/7.

Earlier in the Semifinals, De Roche and Howard beat Joshua Joseph and Cody Laidlow 11/7 11/5. The Creese brothers beat Ajani Hinds and Antwan Tannis 12/10 11/5.

Sean Stanley, the main organizer, said the objective of the tournament was to build strength, specifically in the area Doubles when competing.

Action continues in TBPO GAIRY CONSTRUCTION Simple Boys, Out-Ah Trouble, Fairbairn United Spartans, CGM Gallagher Novice and Dauphine United, recorded victories last weekend in the National Lotteries Authority Top Belair Progressive Organization (TBPO) Twenty/20 Softball Cricket Championship at the Dauphine Playing Field.

On Saturday, Gairy Construction Simple Boys defeated Challengers by 1 wicket in a match reduced to 17-overs due to late start. Scores: Challengers 98 off 16.4 overs - Keno Matthews 16, Britnol Scott 16, Kemron John 2 for 7, Christon Williams 2 for 9, Osbourne Franklyn 2 for 23, Jabari Cunningham 2 for 23; Gairy Construction Simple Boys 99 for 9 off 17-overs - Desron Maloney 19 and Dorian Dallaway 4 for 13.

Out-Ah Trouble beat CDC/LOTTO by 174 runs, in a match which was reduced to 17-overs due to a late start. Scores: Out-Ah Trouble 215 for 8 off 17overs - Davian Barnum 63, Kadir Nedd 36, Richie Richards 27, Micha James 3 for 46, Cordell Theobald’s 2 for 36 and Ashley Frederick 2 for 41; CDC/LOTTO 41 off 11-overs - John Caine 25, Deron Strough 3 for 1, Jerando Jardine 2 wickets for no runs and Kenron Williams 2 for 11.

On Sunday, Fairbairn United Spartans won from Combine Rangers by 24 runs, in a match also reduced due to a late start. Scores: Fairbairn 108 off 15.5-overs - Rockeem Roberts 30, Keithley Gordon 3 for 4, Dimarley Roberts 2 for 20 and Nehemiah Harry 2 for 29; Combine Rangers 84 for 8 off 17-overs - Kimrol Harry 22, Dorian Davis 2 for 8 and Rokeem Roberts 2 for 24.

CGM Gallagher Novice beat New Level by 47 runs in a match reduced to 15-overs due a late start as well. Scores: CGM Gallagher Novice 140 for 6 off 15-overs Casmond Walters 47, Sydney Campbell 24, and Deptor Culzac 2 for 20; New Level 93 for 3 off 15-overs - Rawdon Bentick 54 not out and Vernardo Primus 2 for 24.

Dauphine United defeated Older Boys by 54 runs. Scores: Dauphine United 155 for 8 off 20overs - Nicholas Holder 43, Mandale Questelles 38 not out, Saville Hope 3 for 34, Norman Cumberbatch 2 for 26 and Eversley Payne 2 for 34; Older Boys 101 for 8 off 20-overs - Ashford Wood 23, Romano Hunte 2 for 13 and Nicholas Holder 2 for 20.

Richland Park Football kicks off TWELVE TEAMS will contest this year’s Richland Park Football League in two zones. This kicked off last weekend at the Richland Park playing field.

Greggs FC, last year’s champions, will compete in Zone A, and includes: CMT Out Ah Trouble, Francis Combined, Hard ballers, Highlanders and Down Street United.

Zone B will feature: Cane End,

Vulturez, Evesham, Brother Hood, Kebez United and Buck’s Auto Tallawahs.

Action in the Richland Park Football League.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 25.

Sports

Taking shape THE CONCACAF NATION’S LEAGUE continues with Round Two October 11 when St. Vincent and the Grenadines take on French Guiana on the South American mainland.

That French Guiana is in this region, is a geopolitical intrigue that has baffled at least one Mexican football official here recently.

French Guiana, Suriname, and Guyana ought to be in the South American League. Historical ties have made that area part of the Caribbean melting pot.

French Guiana may be enjoying a surge of energy, with their Mother Country France revelling in the 2018 World Cup glory.

French Guiana wrapped up a 5: 0 win over Anguilla in Round One. The Vincentians will look to rebound from their 2: 0 loss to Nicaragua.

Haiti inflicted a 13: 0 drubbing on Sint Martin.

Cuba beat Turks and Caicos Islands 11: 0.

Curacao shocked Grenada 10: 0. Canada joined the goal party with 8 against United States Virgin Islands.

Dominican Republic 5, disposed of Bonaire 0.

The result which raised eyebrows was the Montserrat/El Salvador fixture. Betters would have been inclined to put plenty money on a Montserrat loss. But their record in the last World Cup Qualifier was commendable. They drew with Curacao two all at home following a 2: 1 away loss in 2015.

They began their Nation’s League campaign by taking the lead in the 39th minute. El Salvador equalised in the sixty-second minute, but it was not until the 94th that the points were secured for a 2: 1 heart-breaker for the Montserratians.

Montserrat hosts Belize in Round Two. Belize will be buoyed by their 4: 0 over Bahamas in Round One. Belize has the upper hand, with 3:1 and 5:2 wins in recent clashes.

El Salvador welcomes Barbados October 13.

Barbados drew two all with Guyana.

St Lucians will turn out in numbers when their team plays Haiti October 13. St. Lucia dumped Antigua and Barbuda 3:0.

Curacao will want to continue their goal party, and the United States Virgin islands will want to restrict them.

Grenada will be at home against Cuba October 12.

Bonaire lost to Dominican Republic. With Jamaica on their shores having beaten Cayman Islands 4:0, it will hard for Bonaire.

Canada hosts Dominica October 16. Dominica and Suriname played to a goalless draw in Round One. Suriname meets British Virgin Islands in Round Two. The Guadeloupe/Aruba clash is intriguing. Both teams scored three goals in Round One; Guadeloupe over Saint Martin 0, and Aruba against Bermuda 1.

Bahamas and Antigua/Barbuda seek to open their tally, as will Bermuda and St. Maarten. Guyana will believe that their Turks and Caicos Islands visit will be positive.

Dominican Republic, in their first home game, will want to give their supporters a repeat performance when they meet Cayman Islands.

Nicaragua welcomes Anguilla. St. Kitts/Nevis left it to the last minute to secure a 1: 0 win over Puerto Rico. Saint Martin welcomes them, while Puerto Rico plays at home against Martinique.

A devastating twelve-minute period cost the Vincentians the first leg clash at Arnos Vale last Saturday. A fatal goal-keeping error presented the Nicaraguans with a bonus in the 27th minute. Too much space provided a second just after the Vincentian goal keeper had brought off a good save.

The second goal stung. Especially as efforts to reduce the score met with no success. The Nicaraguans tried for a safety net third goal as well, but were more intent in protecting their advantage.

The Vincentians never clicked in the way typical squads are known to have. Passes were hurried and erratic, and the preparation level displayed that there is room for tougher preparation.

Greiggs commissions sports club washroom facility PLAYERS WHO are engaged in the Hairoun Brewery/ FLOW Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem 20 /20 Softball Cricket Competition at the Greiggs Central Playing Field, have been afforded the much-needed amenity of a washroom facility.

The facility located on the ground of the Old Greiggs Government School building, was formally opened last Sunday, through the joint input of Parliamentary Representative for South Central Windward- Hon Saboto Caesar; Israel Bruce, the Greiggs Sports and Cultural Club, and the main financier- Sea Operations SVG Ltd. Korando Pierre, who spoke on behalf of Managing Director of Sea Operations SVG Ltd- Errol Sutherland, expressed delight in the facility coming to fruition, and the tenacity of the sports club.

“My boss Mr. Errol Sutherland and the staff of Sea Operations SVG Limited, are happy that this dream of a washroom facility has become a reality, and we hope that all users will have some sense of pride to upkeep and to protect it from human destructive elements”, Pierre said.

Pierre underscored the long-lasting relationship that has been forged by the Sea Operations SVG Limited and the Greiggs sporting organisation.

“Today, Sea Operations is proud of this sporting organisation… We have been their main support for the past 18 years, fully funded and partly funded many of their activities”, Pierre stated.

Sea Operations SVG Ltd, partnership with the Greiggs community began in 2000, when the company was contracted to build a mile-long concrete road, which stretches from Maroon Hill to Greiggs.

Pierre therefore called on the members of the Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem, to ensure that the company’s financial resources are maximised.

“This is your facility…

We beseech you to take care of it”, Pierre reiterated.

Joining Pierre in requesting the upkeep of the facility were Hon. Saboto Caesar; Mrs. Teressia Bruce, the wife of Israel Bruce, and Bradley WoodsPresident of the Sea Operations Nar Fren Dem. While the players

would have the use of the washroom on the days of the competition, members of the general public would have to pay a small user fee to do so.

Additionally, individuals and organisations too can also rent the washroom facilities, whenever activities are hosted at the Old Greiggs Government School or at the Greiggs Korisha Lee of Sea Operations SVG Ltd, cutting the ribbon last Sunday, to formally commission the washroom facility at the Old Greiggs Government School building.Teressia Bruce is at left, and Hon. Saboto Caesar at right.

Central Playing Field.

Adjoining the washroom, is an administrative area to serve the needs of the sporting organisation.

Korando Pierre, addressing last Sunday’s ceremony on behalf of Errol Sutherland of Sea Operations SVG Ltd.

26. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2018. 27.

Classifieds

CARLITA CHARLES JAMES

HUGHETTE CODOUGAN

Grace and Truth Church Sunday, 9th September 2018 Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Glebe Hill Cemetery

Funeral Service Sunday 9th, 2018.

Troumaca Evangelical Church Viewing 1:30 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

LATE FITZIE SAM

ROBERT MATTHEW WILLIAMS

IAN ENOCH

SDA Stubbs Sunday, 9th September, 2018 Viewing 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery

Ebenezer Adventist Church Belle Vue Sunday, 9th September, 2018 Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Colonarie Cemetery

Mt. Carmel Spiritual Baptist Church Chester Cottage Sunday, 9th September, 2018 Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 14, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.37

www.thevincentian.com

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EC$1.50

CCTV HELPING POLICE WITH INVESTIGATIONS

by KENVILLE HORNE

In this still photo obtained from the video which was circulated via social media, the victim can be seen vigorously fighting off her attacker.

Video footage from ClosedCircuit Television (CCTV), has been helping police with a number of criminal investigations here recently. It was video footage that helped police identify the man who inflicted a fatal stab wound on Brenda Layne, a Security Officer at VINLEC, resulting in the detainment and subsequent charge, of Keshorn Caine of Diamonds for her murder. Once again, it has helped to reveal the identity of a young man, who attempted to rape a woman at Indian Bay. According to a police press release, a report was made at The perpetrator attempts to drag the young woman into a the Calliaqua Police Station on secluded area while she continues to fight him off.

Tuesday 11th by a 32-year-old Inset: Terrano Samuel was arrested in connection with the Continued on Page 22. incident.

NO LIMITS ON SCHOLARSHIPS See articles on Pages 14 and 22.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.