THE VINCENTIAN PDF-15-05-20

FRIDAY MAY

15, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.20

www.thevincentian.com

Accident victim remembered Page 3

Sailors are home Page 5

EC$1.50

Sagicor’s special plan Page 12

PM warns absconders Page 13

No LIAT for VINSAJA Page 24

SHOOTING VICTIM RECALLS HIS ORDEAL hours’ of Good Friday, the Good Friday profanities by the bicycle to the spot from where voice of a woman pierced woman. he had removed it, but instead the reverence of the According to Young, on Holy had lodged it in his yard. atmosphere with a Thursday he was repairing a Sometime elapsed and he bellowing of, “(Expletive) jeep in front of his home. He was approached by three men policeman fuh dead!” took a break, left on a bicycle who turned out to be Police Later that day, news belonging to Rodney Francis Officers in plain clothes. He spread that Cosmos and which he was accustomed was questioned about the Young, a well-known auto- using, to run a quick errand. bicycle, during which the mechanic and longHe did so and returned to officers accused him of standing resident of working on the jeep. He stealing tit.

Layou, had been shot by admitted to not returning the Young said he was police.

THE VINCENTIAN first sought clarification from the Police Public Relations Department, but was met

by KENVILLE HORNE with a “no Comos Young alleges that he comment” FIDEL DAVIS, a 34-year-old resident of Cedars, is this was shot by a police officer. response. country’s third road fatality for 2020.

However, a Davis died on the spot after he lost control of the

by CARLYLE DOUGLAS recent interview motorcycle he was riding, and crashed into a public utility pole along the main road in Biabou, last Monday, May 11.

SOME LIGHT has been shed on a with Young shed some light on the He was reportedly riding his black and white Ninja bike 2020 Easter incident in Layou. reason for the and travelling towards Georgetown.

Around 2pm in the ‘holy One of Davis’ aunts (who requested not to be named)

ordered to accompany them to the police station so that he could clarify the matter. He objected to the order, offered some resistance, all the while insisting that he did not steal the bicycle.

Realising there was no sense in prolonging his objection/resistance, he Continued on Page 3.

ANOTHER ROAD FATALITY FOR 2020

Continued on Page 3.

Cosmos Young displays the externally affixed metal splint that now supports the bones in his left thigh.

The remains of Fidel’s Ninja motorcycle, as it came to rest after crashing into a utility pole. (Facebook photo)

Fidel Davis enjoyed, like so many young men his age, a different sense of freedom on his Ninja motorbike, on which, unfortunately he would meet his demise. (Facebook photo)

2. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 Close friend remembers accident victim

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 3.

“HE WAS MY FRIEND before anything else. I’ll remember him every night.. reminding me to say my prayers and read my bible.”

So says Sasha Joseph about her close friend Fidel Davis.

Davis, a 34-year-old chauffeur of Cedars, died on the spot when he lost control of the motorcycle he was riding, and crashed into a public utility pole along the main road through Biabou.

The incident occurred on Monday, May 11.

Joseph told THE VINCENTIAN that Davis was an excellent father figure to her son, and that his world revolved around his children and his mother.

“He put everybody else’s wants and needs before his.

Often times I’ll have to argue with him because he’ll refuse to do something simple as eating, just because he just had to complete whatever for everyone else. That was just who he was … caring and loving, and loved by everybody,” Joseph said.

Joseph also recalled that he encouraged her to be a better version of herself.

According to the grieving

friend, she saw her friend twice on Monday, “once when he stopped Calliaqua to see me after picking up the bike. ..a lil later in the morning when he was driving the work van. I called him while driving behind him in front ‘barracks’ (Central Police Station) and when I switched lanes he smiled at me and blew a kiss.

We talked during the day, but I just happened to be asleep when he messaged me just before he was about to leave from work.”

Sasha learned of her dear friend’s death from her aunt around 5 o’clock that afternoon.

She was in a state of disbelief, but managed to check her phone and realized he had messaged her sometime around 3pm.

Still in a state of disbelief, she dialed his number but the phone rang out. “ I was shattered by the news. … I just wish I wasn’t sleeping when he messaged me. Maybe it would make a difference,” said Joseph, adding that just two days before, he spoke of selling his bike. (KH)

Fidel Davis and Sasha Joseph in happier times.

Sea wall vendors being compensated THE Sea Wall vendors are known to carry on a GOVERNMENT OF ST. VINCENT thriving trade. (Photo Credit: 784 News) and the Grenadines continues to undertake preparatory works in anticipation of the construction of new port facilities in Kingstown.

In December 2019, the Board of Directors of the Caribbean As of May 12th, 2020, eleven (11) Development Bank (CDB) approved vendors have complied with the financing for this project. The first phase will include: the construction of requirements to remove their new cargo port facilities; the rerouting structure, and they will accordingly receive their compensation package of of an existing sewer line and; EC$4,500 each. associated road works.

The compensation makes provision Beginning on Wednesday 13th May, 2020, vendors on the sea wall who are for three (3) months income support of being permanently impacted will begin EC$715/per month, in addition to amounts for the value of their to receive compensation.

Earlier this year, Cabinet approved structure, removal allowance and timely removal bonus. (Source: a sum of EC$275,000 to compensate Ministry of National Security, Air and the sixty vendors who were plying Sea Port Development) their trade on the sea wall, prior to March 31st 2019.

Shooting victim recalls his ordeal The bullet, he said, reportedly shattered the bone and he has had to mustered the courage to have an externally ask the officers if he affixed metal splint to could finish the repair hold it together. job on the jeep, before he Young is now partially went to the police disabled, unable to walk station. and move about unaided, It was then, according and when THE to Young, that he was VINCENTIAN visited shot in the thigh of his with him recently, he left leg by an officer he grimaced in pain as he described as “fair used his hands to move skinned and tall,” who his injured leg. then picked up a As a result of the hammer he, Young, was injury, Young is unable using, as if to indicate to ply his trade, and is that he had used his dependent on others for firearm to avert a threat. his daily upkeep, Continued from Front Page.

including meals.

The fact that he occupies the top story of his house, adds to his isolation.

Young has been charged with stealing the bicycle, and assaulting (cuffing) a police officer while in the process of executing his duty.

The matter was down for hearing last Wednesday at the Layou Court, but was postponed until next week Wednesday.

Another road fatality for 2020 confirmed her nephew’s death that she accepted the reality. told THE VINCENTIAN that the Davis was the father of two family was saddened by his tragic children. He attended the Stubbs death.

Primary School and the St. Clair She clarified that his family is Dacon Secondary School. originally from the village of Stubbs, A post-mortem examination is but Davis was born in Trinidad and expected to be conducted on the body Tobago. His family recently moved to ascertain the cause of death. from Stubbs to Cedars.

The other road fatalities for the The aunt said that Davis had plans year are: Lucinda Brackin, 46, who to ‘trade in’ his bike for either a jeep died on the spot when the vehicle in or a car. which she was travelling overturned “I thought he had already gotten rid along the main road in Sandy Bay, of the bike, until the accident,” she Sunday 8th March; and Shannel John, stated.

33, who died on the spot along the She said that when she first main road in Rillan Hill, after being received the news, she did not believe hit by a pick-up on Wednesday 18th it. It was after a second call that March.

Continued from Front Page.

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4. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

‘Jah Son’ fed up being a target Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS MARTIN ‘JAH SON’ JAMES, who was acquitted on charges of murder, attempted murder and wounding with intent almost two years ago, says he is fed up being the “biggest target on the streets,” and Martin ‘Jah Son’ signaled that the James problem is much larger than him.

James, who gave his age as 50, hurled a barrage of telling remarks across the Court room on Monday, while awaiting the commencement of the Serious Offences Court where he was to answer a charge of possession of 1,145 grams of marijuana with intent to supply, stemming from a

police raid at his Villa home on May 8.

“Twice these people put me in jail for a murder I don’t commit. They trying to disarm me so that they go murder me. They trying to kill me. I lose everything since they put me in jail. The only thing leave for me to lose is my life,” James said in the presence of several police officers and two journalists.

He did not say specifically to what he was referring but, according to him, “These people coming to my place every minute looking for guns and ammunition. I should not be here this morning. I 50 years. I can’t escape from the police and the prison.”

James said all his friends have been killed, and took a swipe at the prisons, saying, “Is a recruiting centre they have round there. I was there. All you have a lot of problems in this place. Is not corona alone.”

Turning to the journalists, he blurted, “All you could quote me if all you want,” and he continued, “You

Nigerian charged with disobeying order EUNICE DOWERS, a Nigerian national currently on trial at the Serious Offences Court on multiple charges stemming from the alleged defrauding of local businessman Bertille ‘Silky’ DaSilva, made an appearance at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday to answer three additional charges.

Dowers is now charged Eunice Dowers with wilfully disobeying a Court order duly made by the Deputy Registrar of the High Court, Charlene Douglas.

Dowers is alleged to have disobeyed the order on November 9, 2019. The order was reportedly made on March 8, 2019, in relation to bail conditions imposed by the High Court on charges of fraud, theft, and converting criminal property for which she is currently being tried.

That matter will resume next week Thursday at the Serious Offences Court.

During her appearance at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, Dowers also had charges of assault and resisting arrest read to her.

She is charged with resisting the arrest by Constable 154 Kenroy Campbell and assaulting Constable 1009 Caleece Richards.

Both offences were reportedly committed on November 8, 2019. She pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

In relation to the charge of disobeying the Court order, Prosecutor Curlene Samuel said that Dowers had always showed up in Court for the matter on which she was granted High Court bail.

Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett then granted her $1,500 bail with one surety on the three new charges, and they were transferred to Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court, and adjourned to May 18.

Attorney Grant Connell is representing Dowers.

think putting me in jail go get the guns dem off the street? All you don’t understand you all self-much less to understand the situation. All you should lucky is I have the guns and nobody else. The guns dem in the right hands.”

Court Clerk Corporal Atnel Ash told him to calm down, and suggested that he voice his grievances to the Magistrate when the Court commenced.

However, when the proceedings started, and James’ matter was called, he made no mention of what he had said before. He was, in fact, very calm when he faced Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

His station bail continued, and the matter was adjourned to June 26.

James and Ricardo ‘Shrek’ McFee, also of Villa, created headlines about three years and seven months ago, when they were jointly charged with the murder of 9-month old Mozarie

Lee and the attempted murder of the baby’s parents, Mozart Lee and Shelly Ann Durham.

The charges had stemmed from an incident at Glen on October 7, 2016 during which the infant was killed and his parents seriously injured, when gunshots were reportedly fired into a yard around 7 p.m.

James and McFee were discharged at the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) at the Serious Offences Court on April 25, 2017, after Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne upheld no case submissions from attorneys Grant Connell and Israel Bruce, representing James and McFee respectively.

However, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) subsequently applied for and was granted a ‘Voluntary Bill of Indictment’ for the men to stand trial in the High Court for the baby’s murder, wounding his parents with intent and attempting to murder Monty Hillocks of Belmont. That case collapsed at the High Court.

Elderly man told to stop stealing SIXTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD Raphael ‘Raphie’ Hutchins has been told that it is time he stops stealing.

The advice came from both Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne and Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche during a sitting of the Serious Offences Court on Monday.

The Villa resident chalked up his 24th conviction when he pleaded guilty to stealing two bottles of Shiling Oil valued at $64, from Coreas Pharmacy, Kingstown, around 10:30am on May 11.

A Security Guard on duty at the Pharmacy caught Hutchins exiting the store with the items in his shirt pocket. He was handed over to the police and when cautioned said, “Gey me a chance please, me head kind ah gone.”

Scrutinizing the defendant’s record, the Chief Magistrate noted that he had 23 previous convictions, seven of them for stealing from Coreas. He had his first conviction in 1975.

“That’s all you have been doing — theft, burglary, theft, burglary,” the Chief Magistrate observed.

“Coming now in this time, and you still doing

this nonsense,” she added.

She expressed the view that Hutchins seemed to be just stealing for the sake of stealing, since some of the things he stole were ridiculous.

“You have to stop that, you hear. You can’t continue like this,” the Senior Prosecutor advised.

In outlining the aggravating factors, the Chief Magistrate pointed

out that in seven of Hutchins’ 23 previous convictions, Coreas was target. She noted that business places were not in a position to suffer such losses at this time in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also highlighted the way Hutchins concealed the stolen items. He had put them in his shirt pocket, and placed a newspaper over that pocket. In mitigation, as it relates

to the offence, she noted that the items were recovered.

However, Browne said she found no mitigating factors in relation to the defendant, but that he would benefit from onethird reduction in sentence.

Hutchins was fined $200 forthwith or two months in prison. He did not pay the fine and was escorted to Her Majesty’s Prisons.

Trinis still stuck in SVG ATTORNEY Grant Connell, representing three fishermen from Trinidad and Tobago who were last week Monday ordered by the Court to be deported, confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN that they were still stuck here, up to press time Wednesday.

At the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last week Monday, Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett reprimanded and discharged the men on charges of entering the state by boat at Canouan without a passport, and entering the state by boat at a place other than a port of entry. Local Coast Guard had intercepted them in the Grenadines on April 19.

The trio - Benjamin Lewis — captain of the boat, Kenwyn Lambert and Nareen Julien - had appeared in Court after being cleared by the Ministry of Health, following a 14-

day period of quarantine.

Connell insisted that, “The men should have been sent back to their homeland from the time they were intercepted,”, adding, “The authorities see three Trinis in a pirogue as coming here for one purpose, and common sense was not applied, especially at a time when we are in unchartered waters”.

He said the issue that is delaying their departure is still to be resolved, and informed that he was in constant communication with the immigration authorities, with the hope that the Trinidadians would leave these shores shortly. He noted that they are now here for almost a month.

Connell also told THE VINCENTIAN that the issue in relation to Lewis’ status was still in question.

V Sailors arrive home – more to come

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 5.

News

NINETY-TWO (92) sailors were repatriated to Vincentian shores last Saturday (afternoon) by the Carnival Cruise Line Company, via its liner Carnival Glory, which docked at the Cruise Ship Berth, Kingstown.

Health Officials reported, subsequent to their disembarkation and the stipulated testing, that two of the sailors were found, on rapid testing, to have been exposed to COVID-19.

The report also stated, “The Health Services Subcommittee has commenced further testing on those two (2) crew members and their four counterparts, to determine whether or not they have active COVID19 infections. All six have been quarantined in a government approved facility, until definitive PCR COVID19 testing can be completed. The other eighty-six (86) crew members have commenced fourteen (14) days of mandatory quarantine in their private homes, apartments and guest houses.”

A May 12 release from the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), on behalf of the National COVID-19 Task Force, disclosed that, “All PCR COVID-19 tests done on the Carnival Cruise Line crew members were negative. The affected Crew members will be released from quarantine within the next twentyfour (24) hours after final medical checks.”

Meanwhile, THE VINCENTIAN understands that the passports of the sailors will be held by Immigration until the end of successful quarantine.

Readers will recall the impasse that developed between the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Carnival Cruise Line over the

Line sailors, some twenty-two (22) Vincentian workers had returned from the British The Holland America cruise ship Caribbean Virgin Islands (BVI) on Princess (left) transferred one Vincentian crew Wednesday, May 6th, member to the Carnival Glory cruise ship off the 2020.

Leeward coast of St. Vincent last Saturday. (Photo They landed at the Credit: Carlyle Douglas) Argyle International imminent arrival of other Airport (AIA), having repatriation of been transported by an cruise line sailors.

Vincentian sailors “I’d spoken in relation aircraft belonging to the employed on that Cruise fleet of the local airline Line ships. This resulted to Disney which coming One Caribbean. on the 20th with 25 of in the sailors being According to health quarantined for well over them, and of course the officials, of the 22 a month, on cruise liners big number 400 with Royal Caribbean. But we persons who returned belonging to Carnival from the BVI yesterday, got word this morning Cruise Line.

18 were allowed to [May 12] that Carnival While there were has found 9 Vincentians quarantine in their stumbling blocks to the homes or in pre-arranged sailors’ return home that on ships off Barbados,” accommodation for that he said. originated in the USA, purpose, and four were “They had told me there were demands sent to a quarantine. originally had 112 being made by the government that did not persons, but when they appeal to the cruise line. finally dotted off the numbers, they said Original plans to fly 91/92. So it is clear that home the sailors were — others may well join eventually aborted in up, eh and they want to favour of a mutually bring those tomorrow acceptable negotiated [May 13]. They would arrangement as per the come under the same use of a liner. protocols,” Gonsalves On Tuesday, PM added.

Gonsalves reminded Previous to the arrival listeners to the Shake-up of the Carnival Cruise Programme, of the

The Carnival Glory about to dock at the Kingstown Cruise Ship Berth last Saturday, May 9. (Photo Source: Beauty of SVG) jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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6. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

COVID-19: Changing the way we live IS IT TOO EARLY to say that the COVID-19 pandemic will change the way we live?

The impact of this novel coronavirus has reinforced, it seems, that it is impossible to predict what next week would look like, far less next year. It seems also to be a case in which no one wants to dare predict anything in the face of the belief that there was no early distant warning associated with this pandemic, so maybe we should draw away from trying to assume what might lie ahead.

Whatever the case, the behvioural scientists among us are wont to argue that COVID-19 will transform our daily lives, in the long run.

Already there is a strong opinion that changes are already in progress, with some still too difficult to fathom.

Admittedly, this novel coronavirus has already created significant shifts in people’s behavior. Are we not washing our hands or using sanitisers more often than before? Using santisers would not have been a cultured habit, but rest assured they have entered the daily routine and will appear on more and more shopping lists. And there is also the non-hurricane season stock-piling of essential food and, to a lesser extent, water.

It could well be that after the COVID-19 has passed, these hand-washing, sanitizing, isolating, stock-piling (new) habits could well scale back considerably.

But, that does not mean they will disappear altogether.

And expect a new consciousness; for when people are confronted by a deadly virus running rampant, they may be especially keen to keep future viruses at bay. So, ‘little things’ like increased vigilance around things like disinfecting surfaces – that’s probably going to continue well into post COVID-19.

And what of the ‘new’ ways of interacting with each other: salutes instead of handshakes when we meet someone; no embracing, no hugging among

family members and long standing friends; WhatsApp chats instead of home visits; video conferences instead of real life deliberations.

And as ridiculous as it might sound, when there are meetings at work, clubs, even churches, people are going to start asking, ‘Do we have to meet in person?’, definitely not something we would have asked pre-COVID-19.

But what will linger with us in a most telling manner is a reminder that the world is fundamentally unpredictable – that life feels more fragile than it once did, and in another sense, that we are not in control of our own lives. It is not far-fetched that some people may even become obsessed with the belief that another threat is imminent.

Those who develop obsessive personalities because of the sociopsychological dislocation occasioned by COVID-19, might opt to cultivate a smaller, safer world for themselves, by, for example, decreasing the size of their circle of friends, not patronizing certain social, cultural events, even avoiding the use of public transportation.

And not to forget the more national concerns; maybe the COVID-19 experience would result in a reorientation in how we/government address public health issues.

Further, in the aftermath, we could be driven to demand a more supportive social safety net, a National Health Insurance (at last).

The big question though is, can we, post-COPVID-19, dislodge, if not dismantle the extreme political polarization and mistrust that has divided us, and usher in dramatic governmental shifts?

The optimist would say that even if our philosophical/political differences persist, people will demand a shift, for if the COVID19 experience should have taught us anything, it is to appreciate that if we all act at the same time, we can influence big changes.

Post COVID-19 promises interesting times!

In the departure lounge of the AIA (First published in THE VINCENTIAN of May 11, 2018) AGAIN, I have flunked in my promise somewhat of following up with a series of articles on the modern history of our sports, to cool down the political temperature which is raging and threatening to get out of hand.

Still, this column never intended to act as a decoy from dealing with the main issues up front. So, here is a compromise: treat with innocuous events such as the steady passing of some good folk, then switch to an aspect staying out of the controversial issue pending the return, hopefully, of my eye-sight which remains artificially defective. And my style is not to comment seriously on matters where I am not able to pore over them in earnest to come to a rational decision. But I will be more inclusive in a short while.

First of all, there is a spill-over of last week’s submission on Netball. I say happy birthday to Gailene Windsor, one of the stars of yesteryear and ageless heart throb of my generation. Never mind her total commitment to the ULP. Next, in the autumn of my years, I can be forgiven of failing to mention the two netball clashes that almost knocked me out. Our first defeat of the champion Trinidad side in Grenada in 1957. The BGS Cadet Corps was then camping at Grand Anse, and I as leader along with one or two NCO’s were given the privilege

by Cadet Master “Jonas” Moore to witness that historic event.

And in 1960 at Victoria Park, my eyes were blessed with the glorious sight of our local team defeating Jamaica whither I proudly went to UWI months after our conquest.

I sympathize with Arnhim Eustace who recently observed that in the last two months he has attended more funerals than in any other period in his life. I have had the same experience.

I begin at my own beginning. Mona Murray taught me how to scratch figures and make images on my SLATE while I attended Miss Patrick’s School aged about three years old, 77 years ago! The “school” was sited at Bottom Town between Back and Middle Street on the Southern side of the river. Everybody can recall Mono’s son “Tweety Spence”, a national footballer of class, another son a penetrative left-arm spin-bowler of Eagles of which I was the skipper. And of course, daughter —calypsonian “Little Bit” who figures much

more at Carnival. We salute Mona Murray whose family in small but vital ways contributed much to our social development.

Then there are two neighbours at Villa, one a struggling Black family of Findlays, the other a White privileged family of former land gentry of the Barnards. I loved and admire them both. Marguerita “Tanty Mag” Findlay and Susan Sinson nee Barnard have both left us. Both lived a good and useful life in SVG as human beings. I visited Susan on several occasions; she was very much a Vincentian citizen, caring, generous, sports-loving and full of mirth.

Stuart Nanton, of blessed memory, told me that he was once the captain of a tennis team to St. Lucia that included our Champion lady Susan. One night, Susan summoned Stuart to her room and complained, “As captain you undertook to see about us. I miss my husband. Aren’t you doing something about it?” That was Susan in the flesh.

The Thompson Home is a favourite haunt. I will miss two residents Marian Woods, a charming client from Richland Park. On my last visit to her, she requested that I take her for a drive, which I could not deliver. I had to give up driving, and Mrs. Woods was restricted. I trust that she enjoys her Heavenward trip by chariot.

Then, there was Granny Rose of whom so many persons justifiably say so many good and positive things. I proudly recall a political meeting in 1979 at Upper Edinboro when I was the candidate for the UPM. There were on the platform Renwick to the left of me and Granny Rose to my right as we all invited the people to choose the “upfull’ party for real change! It was truly a momentous and historic occasion when hope flickered, and disappeared from grasping hands.

I say a personal au revoir to a dear friend, Molly Hull of Cane Hall. A fond farewell to Isola Williams nee Carr whose society of about four sisters I enjoyed, Melanie, Esther, Shirley and Cynthia, with special regards to Rickey Burnett, son-in-law.

Finally, I wrap up with cricket by saluting fellow analyst and critic Robert Etienne and especially “Boops” a national player whose criticisms of me as a selector I absorbed in good spirits.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 7.

Letters

After COVID-19 and our students

I DON’T KNOW, MR. EDITOR, whether those places — hotels, restaurants, stores — which laid off workers, are going to be able to re-employ all of them when this COVID-19 thing passes.

If, as the Minister of Finance says, things will get worse before they get better, or something like that, I don’t see these places doing the same amount of business, and therefore would not be able to employ the number of people they did before COVID-19.

The big question is: What is the government going to do to deal with the hardships that will follow after COVID-19 has come and gone? Just like how we had a Stimulus Package to deal with the time COVID-19 is with us, we need a Recovery Package when Mr. Covis-19 is gone.

Then to the issue of our students who remain on UWI campuses, especially in Jamaica and Barbados.

I must pick a bone with you, Mr. Editor, for not giving more highlight to the story about the students from St. Kitts/Nevis, whose government paid US$75,000 to bring them home.

That story should have been front page so that this government of ours, especially our Prime Minister, could have seen it big and bold.

If they read it at all, they should be ashamed.

Bring our students home. Pay for them to get home.

Charles Edinboro

Appreciate our police officers IT SEEMS that whenever we have unpleasant work to be done, we call on our policemen and policewomen who, to tell the truth, are not always given the appreciation and respect they deserve.

We seldom stop to appreciate, since we take their work for granted, that the service they give us citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is an essential one - whether it be in keeping the peace, searching out the criminals, going beyond the call during

hurricanes and civil unrest.

Take the police out of our society and I shudder to think what would happen in our country.

Can you imagine a country run over by criminals?

And even though the work of the policemen and policewomen is essential, seldom is it attractive, and it has not been a choice of career for the children of the privileged class. This is ironic in that the prosperity of the

privileged class is as much due to the work and dedication of the police, as is the safety and well-being of all other Vincentians.

So, anytime one of our law officers is killed in the line of duty, we have to pause, take stock and recognize that that person may just have died in doing his or her duty of maintaining peace and tranquility in our communities; and that he was a son or daughter of the same soil as us.

A prayer is offered on behalf of the late Sergeant (Ag) Philbert Chambers who died while executing his duty.

Retiree

Looking in on North Leeward NORTH LEEWARD has always been a hub of activity, and this writer has written, on many occasions, about things that needed to be done in that constituency. Thus,

when things are done, it must be made known and we must say thanks.

The Rose Hall Sporting Facility, the upgrading of the Long Line Road, the Sharpes

Bridge, the paving of of the fence will have roads and construction of much to say about it. and retaining walls in However, as a resident of villages and other North Leeward, I am projects, are amongst certain that like me, some of the projects that many more residents are have lately formed part thankful for these of the activities in North projects, and are looking Leeward, thanks to the forward with Government. They are anticipation to their much appreciated. completion and also to Having said that, it further projects.

In closing, let me take party would win a fourth does not mean that all is well in North Leeward, this opportunity to ask straight victory in 1998 for we know that it has us all to be safe in this when it edged the Unity been a constituency time. Also let us keep the Labour Party (ULP) much neglected over the politics out of the eight seats to seven years, even though COVID-19 Pandemic, for That term was former representatives we know the virus does shortened when elections did work and played not discriminate; it can were called in 2001 and their part in the affect persons on both victory was handed to development of North sides of the political the ULP for the first Leeward. For this we are fence. Thus, it is time, under Dr. Ralph thankful. However, we important that we all Gonsalves. The ULP work together and have won twelve of the fifteen know there are many more things to be done. a safe and blessed SVG. seats in that elections.

We know that Since then, the ULP has been returned victors politicians on both sides Kennard King in general elections of 2005 (twelve of fifteen seats), 2010 (eight of THE MUSTIQUE ACT NO.48 OF 2002 breeds fifteen) and 2015 (eight inequality. of fifteen).

Through its many amendments down the The race is on for the decades, the Act enhanced inequality, with the poor 2020-21 general black and powerless majority being subservient to elections. Our advice to the rich. What has been created is a state (a white the relevant authority is enclave) within a state. to start to reorganize the While hundreds of Vincentians leave the electoral system, so as to mainland to seek better paying jobs on Mustique, ensure a health/clean they never give the bigger picture any attention. and safe/fair election.

That picture shows that the world over black people And after the next have very little say in just about anything, because elections, look for the as a people they have zero financial power, and whole system to be because they allow their leaders to abuse the rights reshuffled - education, as per the Mustique Act No.48 of 2002. health, security and food Since Donald Trump’s rise to be President of the production. No more USA, racial inequality — more accurately attacks divide and rule. The against black people - has intensified in that spirit of Divine Law shall country and even in the UK, Canada and across govern our country. We Europe. This is an indication of the racial shall be a shining star, inequality to be found in global capitalism.

If black people are to come out of this global class shining from the west to system fueled by our leaders, each nation must do the east. its part. SVG must abolish the Mustique Act no48 Rethink and think of 2002. forward.

Prepare for the next elections The Editor, as we prepare for our next general elections which are constitutionally due

by March 2021, I want to give our readers a quick journey through our elections from 1951 to 2015.

In the October 15, 1951 elections, the Eight Army of Liberation, led

by George Charles, won

eight of the eight seats allowed.

The 1954 elections saw Ebenezer Joshua’s Peoples Political Party (PPP) taking three seats and Independents taking five of the eight allowed.

The PPP would go on to win in 1957, 1961 and 1966, taking five of eight seats in 1957, six of eight in 1961, and five of nine

seats in 1966.

In May 1967, the St. Vincent Labour Party forced itself into government when it won 6 of the nine seats available.

In 1972, even though the two major parties — PPP and Labour - each won six of the thirteen seats then available, James Mitchell, who won the other seat as an independent, joined with the PPP to form the government.

That lasted until the 1974 general elections which was won by the Labour Party, taking ten of the thirteen seats.

Labour won again in the 1979 elections, the year of Independence, taking 11 of the thirteen seats.

The 1984 general elections threw up a great change when the New Democratic Party (NDP), under James Mitchell, took nine of the thirteen seats and repeated that victory in 1989, when it took all of the fifteen seats then available. This total landslide victory had never been done before and is yet to be repeated.

Mitchell led his party to victory in 1994 with his NDP winning twelve of the fifteen seats. The

Mustique Act breeds inequality

Christian Democrat

Kadmiel McFee

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The story of SVG and ULP Leadership Part 1

When Exceptionalism meets Exceptionalism Introduction including the addition of classrooms to house incoming students.

This was in fact the start of an expansion that was necessary to accommodate universal access to secondary education by 2005, for 100% of the nation’s 11 year olds. Over the next 7 years, there would be the construction of new schools in Peter’s Hope, Edinboro, West Saint George, Union Island and the refurbishing of other schools. The government also provided opportunities for hundreds of primary school teachers to access university training, increasing the number of university trained teachers from 4 in 2001, to over 500 today.

The A’Level College has been transformed to the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Community College with 4 divisions, providing postsecondary training up to Bachelors level, in Nursing Education with more additions and partnerships to come.

The Division of Technical Vocational Education (DTVE), has seen major expansion in relation to the programs offered. This division is also augmented by the presence of 4 technical institutes at Barrouallie, Campden Park, Kingstown and Georgetown that provide level 1 Certificates to students not meeting the matriculation requirements for the DTVE. At the university level, SVG ranks number 1 for non-resident population on all campuses on the University of the West Indies, with significant student populations at University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) in Trinidad and the Edna Manley School of Performing Arts in Jamaica. In addition, Vincentian students have been or can be found on university campuses in Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Taiwan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Austria, Morocco, and Russia; all on scholarship programs negotiated by the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

One of the most remarkable results of this, apart from the academic certification attained by students, is The Education Revolution; our first story the fact that this country now boasts It is important to remind our readers professionals fluent in Spanish, Mandarin, Russian, Dutch, and of the state of our country’s education Turkish, as a result of the system when the ULP took office in Government’s policy and vision. It was 2001, so that there can be an appreciation of the strides we’ve made a moment of pride, when a visiting Head of State of Taiwan attended a over the years. There was no publicly function where the translation was funded early childhood education for done for those in attendance including, our nation’s toddlers, less than 40% of the Taiwanese media, by a Vincentian our nation’s children gained access to national. secondary education, the students at the A’level college were a few hundred, Conclusion and Vincentian students enrolling in Universities across the world, was The Education Revolution, was made minuscule. Added to this was a debt of approximately $10 million dollars owed possible through the efficient use of public funds, negotiations with friendly to the University of the West Indies, allies and support from international that proved embarrassing for our donors, who came on board after seeing students enrolled there.

It was against this backdrop that the the determination of this small nation and the strides we made in our quest to government decided to undertake the ambitious task of educating our citizens educate our people.

Surely, this is only the first story even in the face of opposition from that the world needs to hear and the traditional funding partners, such as details which couldn’t be discussed the World Bank and the European because of the limited space, make for Union. The undertaking had been even more interesting reading. Every given by the previous NDP Vincentian can be proud about the administration that the consideration strides this little island nation has of universal access to secondary education could not be done before the made in the area of education. But we year 2030, condemning the 11-year-olds owe it to ourselves to ensure that we have a full appreciation of what we of our nation to another 30 years of have achieved and to share this story under-education and our nation to with the world as one of what vision, prolonged underdevelopment. faith, commitment and excellent The Ralph Gonsalves-led ULP administration had other ideas. Almost leadership can achieve.

Subsequent articles in this series as immediate as they got into office, there was roll out of the largest school would discuss our stories of airport development, United Nations Security repair program ever in this country in Council campaign and the management preparation for the start of the new of the Covid-19 pandemic. school year in September 2001, THE JOURNEY taken by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines over the last 19 plus years of Unity Labour Party governance and stewardship has been nothing short of remarkable, and translates to a story that the world needs to hear. The many challenges confronting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with open economies, and their acute vulnerabilities to exogenous shocks are well documented and present a reality of exceptional circumstances that we must constantly overcome.

These circumstances require among other things, exceptional leadership that is borne out by its vision, creativity, innovation and a willingness to deviate from the norm; exploring new frontiers and forging new paths. In this regard, the leadership provided by the Ralph Gonsalves led ULP Administration offers undeniable evidence of our exceptional ability to create models for sustainable development that the world can learn from, reminding us that while we are no better than anyone else, no-one is better than us.

Addressing the general debate at the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Dr. Gonsalves reiterated to that global body that “There is a Small Island States Exceptionalism which must be factored, juridically, and non-discretionary, in the architecture of global partnerships on this existential matter”.

He was at the time addressing the exceptional circumstances that had just befallen The Bahamas, from the passage of hurricane Dorian mere weeks before. Our country has in recent times, seen its share of exceptional circumstances, natural and man-made, but through the exceptionalism in leadership, we rose from the veritable ashes, rebuilding and reconstructing this modern, postcolonial, many-sided, competitive economy and society, that is at once regional and global.

Lack of Vision in ICT by the ULP Government THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC has forced the closure of educational institutions in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. To continue the educational process of the students, the government has introduced online teaching. However, there isn’t a common (online) platform which is used by the Ministry of Education to deliver the curriculum. Each school chooses to use its own online platform. The procedure has created anxiety for teachers, students and parents. It would appear that the ‘Education Revolution’ does not have an effective Information Communication Technology (ICT) component to its curriculum.

In the age of technology and after nineteen years in power, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime has failed miserably to implement an extensive and attractive ICT programme that would benefit Vincentians and all the departments of government. The failure of an effective ICT programme in the education system is evident and has contributed to the stress and anxiety of the parents. Some homes do not have internet service while some children are without computers.

We all agree that schooling should have continued online; as is done in other Caribbean countries. It is important that students continue their studies. The disruption would have further added to the many problems that are experienced in the education system, e.g. our dropout rate, which is the highest in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.

Jaime Saavedra, writing in Education for Global Development, on Educational Challenges and Opportunities of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, opines, “Maintaining the engagement of children, particularly young secondary school students, is critical. Dropout rates are still very high in many countries, and a long period of disengagement can result in a further increase.”

The New Democratic Party (NDP) supports the continuing teaching and learning process, but a more structured approach is needed. The lack of vision and proper planning by the ULP regime has created the problems related to online teaching, about which many parents have complained and are complaining. Is it all politics and not the genuine educational development of the students?

The government missed a golden opportunity ten years ago to incorporate ICT and online teaching into the schools’ curriculum when thousands of laptops were delivered to students of primary and secondary schools. In 2014, thousands of laptops were once again distributed.

Education was not the focus. General elections were held in 2010 and 2015, so it was all about winning elections.

It was all about, ‘Let us see how we can attempt to bribe the parents by giving their children laptops’. Where are those laptops today? Suddenly, in 2015, another election year, the ULP government has promised thousands of tablets to students.

The Honourable Terrance Ollivierre, NDP Parliamentary Representative for the constituency of the Southern Grenadines, earlier this year asked of the Minister of Education the following question: “What is the status of the once touted one laptop per child programme and specifically how has the programme affected teaching and learning in our schools?”

The Minister did not give a satisfactory response to the question.

It is the government’s lack of vision in ICT why there are so many problems associated with online teaching.

NDP ICT Programme The New Democratic Party (NDP) understands and accepts that technology is not something in our future. It is here and it is now, and we need to put it to work for our development.

The NDP, in collaboration with already-identified world-class partners, will embark on an ambitious technology agenda that will adopt and adapt technology as a way of life for Vincentians, thereby transforming every sector in our economy and attracting technology businesses.

We will implement a coherent, improved programme for ICT in Education. Without a well thought-out and implemented ICT in Education Programme, giving laptops and other devices to students and teachers will not have the desired impact. The NDP will work with service providers and educators regionally to implement a programme that will, among other things, provide access to secondary school textbooks in digital form where possible, which will directly reduce the cost of education for those families with secondary level students at home. We will also work with stakeholders toward employing the most appropriate platform to implement online teaching.

The NDP will make Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education a priority. The NDP believes that a key factor in the country’s development in the 21st century will be the creation of a new generation of citizens with at least a basic grounding in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). We feel it is important that the citizens and students of St Vincent and the Grenadines should not be simply passive consumers of technology, but also originators and creators of technology. Education curriculum reform must, therefore, aim to bring the teaching of relevant subjects (including app development and coding) to the primary and secondary schools.

Further, we will transform healthcare through the use of technology. Healthcare practice will be taken to the next level with cloudenabled record keeping at the district level, making access to information and treatment easier, and use SMS messaging to connect patients and healthcare workers to deliver medication reminders, appointment reminders, important alerts and health tips. We will initiate a telemedicine pilot project that will allow in real-time, connection between our own doctors and doctors around the world, to provide consultancy, advice and even perform minor procedures through the internet.

The NDP will aggressively pursue new business ventures in ICT using our existing legislation to attract ICT businesses to our shores. Through appropriate incentives, we will create thousands new jobs in technology sector. We will turn St. Vincent and the Grenadines into a free wireless hotspot. Free, wireless internet connectivity will be available to residents and visitors in town and country, in offices and at tourism sites. The NDP will make St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all Vincentians.

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Finding the Way Back (Pt 2)

“And he arose, and came to his father.

But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” Luke 15:20 King James version of the bible LAST WEEK’S PUBLICATION, “Finding the Way Back: Part 1”, provided insights in relation to the ability of homing pigeons to find their way back home. In addition, several examples were provided of how ancient civilizations and the military strategists in World Wars I and II used these feathered creatures to take messages from their respective battlefields to the command posts. The responses from some readers confirmed that they found the details educational and useful.

Part 2 in this series looks at the New Testament passage in the bible (Luke 15:11-32) where Jesus Christ shared some valuable insights via the parable that we now describe as “The Prodigal Son” — a parable about a wayward son who demands his inheritance, squanders it, but later returns home to discover that his father forgives him. He humbled himself and found his way back home.

Like the son described in the preceding paragraph, we are sometimes guilty of making rash decisions. There are times when we impatiently rush along with an investment opportunity without having engaged in an objective analysis of the project. We can become so preoccupied with the thoughts of success (and what it brings with it) that we neglect to contemplate the level of investment needed, the human resources required, and the demands of the market. The absence of thorough, objective analysis could result in the project’s failure and, if not careful, the investor could incur such heavy losses that they find it impossible to recover. Adequate planning and preparation become critical if we are to improve our chances for success. If we are fortunate enough, we may discover that we have what it takes to find the way back from what would otherwise be a calamity. In business, and in life, we should seek to engage in proper planning to enhance our chances of success. We should also seek to have a “back-up plan” that would enable us to find a way back from the brink of catastrophe, should the situation not prove to be as lucrative as we thought.

Many adult readers can reflect on the errors of judgement that we would have made as we transitioned from childhood to adulthood. Those adolescent years would have provided ample opportunities for us to think that “we had arrived”; that we knew everything about everything. In hindsight, we realise how foolish those thoughts were. Many of the mistakes (errors in judgement) made then may have had life-changing consequences.

Hopefully, most were not so very traumatic. We would have erred but not so badly that we were unable to recover — to rebound. This may have been especially so with some relationships. Sometimes, during this critical period of development when we seek the acceptance of others (especially our peers), we may engage in activities that are socially and/or morally unacceptable. These could include behaviours such as the excessive use of alcohol, experimenting with drugs or sex, and so on. Some of

these risky behaviours may result in serious damage to our physical and/or emotional being. Fortunately, in many instances, recovery is possible and we can find our way back to normal/acceptable behaviours.

Sometimes we return scarred or maimed, but we survived.

Adolescent readers may readily be able to identify with the thoughts presented in the previous paragraph.

They are in the “midst of the storm”, battling with the challenges and temptations that are normal/common at this stage of life. The hormonal disruptions and the mood swings could be quite unsettling. It is precisely because of this that a disciplined approach to life is mandatory if they are to successfully chart a course through this most unsettling period of their lives. Being guided by responsible, mature, and caring adults, reading positive publications, meditating on biblical passages, and imbibing pure thoughts can be most beneficial. It is critical that they adhere to the moral and socially acceptable moorings provided. They must be anchored by these principles of honesty, purity, integrity, and so on if they are to safely maneuver the raging storms of life. And for those who may have unwisely “experimented” with undesirable behaviours and/or companions, it is not too late to find your way back to the socially acceptable behaviours that create and sustain morally and ethically strong citizens and societies.

In our humanness and fallibility, we will fail from time to time. We all make mistakes; we will periodically do or say wrong things. But we can find the way back if we need to badly enough. We can find the way back by admitting that we have been wrong, rather than seeking to cover it up or passing the blame. Sometimes, if the mistake or error of judgement has resulted in hurting others, it becomes necessary to apologize — to own up to our errors as we seek to find our way back — reconciliation is often not as difficult as it first seems.

It is probably fitting to end this essay the way we began … with the biblical reference to Jesus’ parable about the wayward son who eventually found his way back home to his waiting father. Sometimes we are guilty of having strayed in thought and behaviour. As long as we have life, it is never too late to take corrective action. We can find our way back through repentance and a strong resolve to discontinue the particular thought or action. Repentance and restoration are made possible when we recognize that we need not remain in “no man’s land”, alone, disheartened, rejected, and unhappy. We can find peace, joy, contentment, restoration, and forgiveness when we find the way back. And for those who may have fallen out of fellowship with God, this may just be a message for you to return to His loving care. He lovingly and patiently awaits the prodigal sons and daughters.

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

Only reparations will ensure that Black lives matter LAST WEEK, Plain Talk reported on Dr Hilary Beckles’ call to raise the temperature in the battle to secure reparations. In these COVID 19 times, few readers may have paid attention to the importance of the issue. However, a few Euro-centrics jump on me as they claimed, ‘attempting to revive a dead horse.’ They dared to say that I was racist for continuously raising matters of race that affect the life chances of people of African descent.

If ever there was a reason we must never let the issue of genocide, the enslavement of Africans, the retarding tragedy of colonialism and the continued dehumanization of black people which is fueled by racism fade from our consciousness, the murder of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, USA, for the crime of jogging while black, is a grim reminder.

Last week, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation charged Ahmaud Arbery’s killers with murder and aggravated assault. There can be little doubt that, without the viral spread of a video capturing Arbery’s harrowing final moments, no such charges would have been brought.

Seventy-three days before the charges were laid, Arbery, 25, was shot dead hunted by a white father and son in a truck. Over two months had passed, and no charges had been filed by the local district attorney’s office.

Within a day of the video surfacing, garnering millions of views and provoking mass outcry, the GBI began its own investigation. A day later, Gregory McMichael, a former investigator with the Brunswick district attorney’s office, and his son Travis were arrested and booked into jail.

It took the intolerable spectacle of a black man’s execution in public view, spread far and wide, for the state to consider – or be compelled to consider – even the possibility of consequences for those who so readily took his life.

Why do we need to exhibit and share the brutal death of a black man for it to be asserted that he was murdered? Why is it still necessary that the world see a black life violently cut short for any institutional recognition that black lives should matter?

When Gregory and Travis McMichael saw a black man jogging in their quiet neighbourhood, it’s difficult to imagine that they saw a human whose life would be registered as a loss if taken. Instead, they saw a criminal threat, grabbed their guns, and gave chase. When the police and prosecutors originally in charge of the case said that there was ‘insufficient probable cause’ for arresting the killers, and that Travis McMichael was ‘allowed to use deadly force to protect himself’ against the unarmed victim, they asserted that Arbery’s life was not a life worth preserving. It was not enough for his family to demand justice. Millions of people had to bear witness to the extreme footage of a lynching and to demand action, for the state to begin to register that Arbery’s life had value. Yet Black people are told to forget and move on.

The murder of Arbery graphically demonstrates that a black person could be innocently going on with their life and be cut down by racist police or white citizen terror.

The series of events captured in this video confirms what all the evidence indicated prior to its release, yet the

state refused to arrest and charge the murderers.

We have been here before. The fact that the McMichaels have been charged is no assurance the state will find them guilty. The racist logic of Georgia’s ‘stand-your-ground’ laws may well determine that the father and son were justified in claiming self-defense against the black man they pursued. We know by now that the white men in these cases get to be the “self” deemed worthy of defense; Arbery was accorded no such selfhood, no such presumption of a life worth defending. Video evidence does not change that.

We watched Philando Castille bleed out in his car after he was shot by a cop, as his desperate girlfriend filmed; we watched Eric Garner gasping for breath as a New York police officer choked the life out of him; we watched Tamir Rice aged 12, be gunned down by police as they leapt from their cruiser. None of the cops in these filmed killings was convicted. Videos of black people being summarily executed are hardly rare.

And hardly ever do killer cops and racist vigilantes face significant consequences.

White people do not need video footage to establish their humanness.

They are presumed, human. Sadly, the institutional dehumanization of black life requires their loved ones and justice advocates to publicize the most brutal images of murdered black people to demand that those lives be recognized and valued?

So little has changed. In 1955, Mamie Till insisted on an open casket to show the murdered, brutalized body of her 14-year-old son, Emmett, who was lynched after being falsely accused of inappropriate flirting with a white woman. ‘Let them see what I have seen.’ Images of his battered face circulated in magazines and newspapers; thousands of people visited his open casket. The two white brothers who beat him to death were acquitted by an all-white jury.

The circulation of intolerable scenes of brutality against black people remains necessary. Without it, there is rarely public and official recognition that the taking of black life, simply because of the person’s blackness, is an injustice. Yet such recognition is no assurance of justice. Indeed, even if the McMichaels are found guilty of murder, this cannot be called a circumstance of justice. There can be no justice while the conditions for racist lynchings persist, while black communities are forced to share the most violent images of what happened to their loved ones to assert that their lives mattered.

Let them continue to hurl the racist charges at us. Let them continue to say we are stuck in the past. We know that only when the white power system of racism, oppression and exploitation pay reparations for their crimes of genocide and enslavement, colonialism and racist terror committed against African people’s will they see us as human and treat us as human.

Until that day comes, the struggle for our very survival must continue. Now more than ever is the time to raise the temperature.

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

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ULP regime failing farmers EVEN before COVID-19, farmers were being failed by the ULP regime. The ULP regime has virtually killed the SVG economy. No money is circulating in the country and, like most businesses, farmers are not getting much sales.

Some farmers, when they come to Kingstown on Fridays, would be lucky to make $30 profit from the goods they sell. This is not enough to sustain their household and pay the bills.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, the ULP regime has failed to find markets for farmers’ produce.

Many farmers have an excess of food because they cannot sell it all.

Others (farmers) are not even at full capacity. They could grow more food, but they don’t because it would only go to waste in the field, due to lack of sales Many farmers have given up

growing food, because they know they cannot get their produce sold in big enough quantities. The consequence of this is that over EC$200 million is spent on imported food every year. Put another way, that is $200 million leaving our country every year; no wonder there is no money in circulation in our country. This money should be staying in SVG and going into the pockets of SVG farmers.

We need a stronger economy in SVG so that more food is bought locally. In addition, government should be finding sustainable foreign markets so that SVG farmers can export on a weekly basis.

Even within the Caribbean region, there are a number of countries that SVG farmers could be exporting to, as these countries do not have good enough agricultural land and enough

rainfall, to produce enough food for themselves.

A Green government would bring back the Marketing Corporation and focus on import substitution. In SVG, we should eat what we grow and grow what we eat. We should give farmers guaranteed prices and find more foreign markets for the produce that exceeds the needs of the people of SVG. A Green government would revive the agriculture industry. SVG should be doing organic farming; building factories to produce and export tea, baby food and fruit juices; reviving the coconut industry and manufacturing products for export; building a fish canning and exporting industry; and exporting other agro-products to the diaspora in Europe, Canada and the USA. This would create thousands of

new jobs.

The ULP regime has recklessly destroyed prime agricultural lands.

Hundreds of acres of prime agriculture land were lost to make way for the Buccament Bay resort, Argyle airport and the Belle Isle jail. Where has that got us? Buccament is closed and the Argyle airport runs at a significant financial loss.

The ULP regime has failed Vincentian farmers, and many farmers and their families struggle to survive.

SVG needs a change of government for farmers and businesses to get substantially better sales. The ULP regime has obsessively focused on tourism, whilst disregarding the negative impact this has had on the livelihoods of farmers and people in non-tourism business sectors.

COVID-19 exposed 20 years of mismanagement I ATTENDED the first public consultation which Dr. Gonsalves held after he had taken the reins of government in SVG in 2001. The session was held at the Peace Memorial Hall one evening, and the Master of Ceremonies was the late Glen Jackson.

When I had the opportunity to speak, I urged Prime Minister Gonsalves to give the farmers the opportunity to participate in the addressing of the economic realities facing us. I said, “Let the farmers help you”. He replied that that is what he intended to do.

Promises unfulfilled Yet today, what do we have after almost twenty (20) years of the management of the country under the

leadership of Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and his team? We have the almost total collapse of the agriculture sector, despite the fact that in seeking the support of the farming community, they had promised that they were going to put emphasis on the revitalizing of the agriculture sector.

They promised to seriously address the repair of the Feeder Roads, so vital to the issue of quality in the Banana Industry which they claimed, they were in a very strong position to revitalize. Farmers have not forgotten, that in the election season of 2001, the ULP had on their platform a gentleman who claimed to have influence in Britain. He seemed zealous to impress, that once the ULP was elected to government, SVG would have the support of his organization in making it comfortable for us to sell our

bananas on the UK market.

After almost twenty years under the ULP and Gonsalves, there has been no evidence of a serious effort to effect those promises they had made. On the other hand, it would be safe to say, that on the basis of documented evidence, the Ralph Gonsalves regime cannot reasonably hope to succeed in defending themselves against the looming charges of gross mismanagement and irresponsible conduct.

Because of the many promises that have been made and remain not implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, the minister is now popularly regarded to be something of a comedian. He seems so peculiarly un-moved by the fact that to a large degree he has not been able to deliver on the promises he had made with such flare; he probably counters stagnancy by making more plans of promises. So that today, the officers of that Ministry seem to have lost their passion, barely going through the motions, as they are powerless to provide the traditional services to the farming community. In the meantime, the Minister Caesar and his PS trumpet their wonderful accomplishments!

The ‘Love Box’ – going nowhere Because of the crippling of the agriculture sector generally, the government’s scrambling to address the pressure brought about by COVID19 may well turn out to be ineffectual.

The “love box” plan for sharing foodstuff is clearly not sustainable and reminds one, of the domination of the people of Haiti by Papa Doc. The blight still lingers there! This “love box” scheme is presented as a system which will allow farmers to earn useful income, but farmers will remember who promised to revitalize the Banana Industry in 2001. They know that less than ten years after those promises, the ULP mashed up the largest farming organization in the land. It was more than fifty years old and had

brought in billions of dollars into the economy so that everybody benefited.

They left the farming community ‘scrunting’ up to today. The “love box” will not help our situation much! The part played by Renwick Rose and ODD in the crippling of the St. Vincent Banana Growers Association is still a painful reference point with farmers today.

What we should probably be doing now, is to review all the “PLANS” we had made relative to our agriculture since 2001, and see where we went wrong. Farmers cannot be expected to trust our Minister of Agriculture and his team with the construct of any new plan, until we have had a comprehensive reviewing of those which had been presented over the years and which had not been implemented.

It is imperative, that our scholars and mature citizens recognize, that there is urgent need for them to get involved in the discussions which must be arranged now, so that we as a nation could determine what needs to be done to give us a reasonable chance of succeeding in the decades ahead.

The shallow “love box” approach by Dr. Gonsalves and his team, as they grope for a way out of the dilemma, will not get us very far. What is being exposed is the degree to which we have mismanaged our affairs so that today in the face of COVID-19 stresses, we do not have the resilience that we could have had, if this agricultural economy of ours had been properly managed. The reality is that we have lost billions of dollars from our economy because of the crippling of our agriculture.

Dr. Gonsalves’ ULP government must be told, that, had they honoured their Election promises of 2001, to revitalize our agriculture, support the Banana Industry and seriously address the repairing of the Feeder Roads, we could have been in a very strong position today, to cope with COVID-19 pandemic.

LeRoy Providence

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ÂSoca JonesÊ, popular entertainment promoter, passes ‘Soca Jones’, as he was affectionately known, played an integral part with the creation of Vincy Day USA.

Long Island, a New York City suburb, died on Friday, May 8, his relatives said.

Sharon Jones, Jones’s only sister, who took care of him during his last weeks at her home in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn, announced his passing on Facebook.

Jones himself had announced on the same medium on Mar. 21 that he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer.

He prefaced this with a chronology of his ordeal — tests, diagnoses — and concluded with: “On Wednesday (Mar. 18), I took the scan. On Thursday (Mar. 10) morning, I received a phone call to get to the doctor’s office immediately. Upon arrival, I was told by the doctor that I had Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer and that it had also spread to my liver.. . On Saturday Ulric Jones, Jr, aka ‘Soca Jones’, (Mar. 21), I was told that the surgeon succumbed to pancreatic cancer. concluded that the cancer had spread too far for any surgery to be done.”

by NELSON A. KING The person he was, Jones told his naking@verizon.net many Facebook ‘friends’: “I can assure US CORRESPONDENT you that I’m not going to give up and give in,” he said. “I’m going to fight as ULRIC JONES JR., popularly known as hard and as much as I can. …. I might ‘Soca Jones’, a prominent Vincentian be down, but I’m not out,” and called entertainment promoter in Brooklyn, New on those who had rallied around him York and co-founder and vice chairman of all the year for their support. the Vincy Day USA picnic that is held annually on the third Saturday in August, Tributes at Heckscher State Park in East Islip, Though many in the Vincentian community, particularly in Brooklyn, had anticipated the inevitable, they expressed shock over his passing.

Sherrill-Ann Mason-Haywood, chair of the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc., said she “could have never imagined that just over two years” after Jones “did something so special” — while she was grieving over the loss of her husband, Maxwell Haywood, chairman of the Diaspora Committee, who she succeeded as chair — “something that would bring me such joy and a sense of hope, that I would be reciprocating my condolences to his family.

“Soca, you were exceptionally gifted, bright and thoughtful,” Mason-Haywood posted on Facebook. “You have been taken far too soon, but, in the fullness of time, we may come to understand the reason why.”

Raymond Otis Lewis, incumbent chairman of Vincy Day USA ‘Soca Jones’ held family in high regard. Committee, Inc., told THE Here he is pictured with his father, Rev. VINCENTIAN on Sunday that Jones’s passing is not only “a Ulric Jones and mother Marilyn.

tremendous loss to the Committee but also to the entire Vincentian community here in the Diaspora and in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Junior (Jones) was as devoted to the betterment of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its people as was evident in the creation of Vincy Day USA, along with then Consul General Selmon Walters,” he said. “His claim to fame was being the pre-eminent Vincentian promoter in the New York area for a very long time.”

he added. “Most of the DJs in the Diaspora are here now because Soca gave them the platform to start their “His love for our music was craft. immeasurable, and he had what we “He will be remembered as a culture could almost call an encyclopedic lover, an unselfish patriotic memory to such,” he said.

Vincentian, and someone who loved “His stature is one that will never life and lived it to the very end,” be duplicated, for he was a unique Richards continued. individual,” said Lewis, describing Glenroy “Gobels” Phillips, also a Jones as “a true son of the soil — a true member of the Vincy Day USA, Inc. patriot, a man who loved his homeland Committee and former vice chair of and his fellow citizens to the core.” the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Franklyn “Supadex” Richards — a Diaspora Committee of New York, prominent Vincentian graphics Inc., said Jones “wanted us to be the designer in Brooklyn, and former best Vincentian we could be. president of the Brooklyn community “His charity started at home,” he group VincyCares, Inc. and the told THE VINCENTIAN. “He wore his Dynamites Calypso Tent — said it was Vincentian patriotism all the time.

Jones’s idea to establish Vincy Day Vincy Day USA is his legacy, a time USA. when we celebrate everything Vincy.

“I’ve seen him work tirelessly to “I hope his patriotism is contagious give birth to Vincy Day USA, with to all who knew him,” Phillips added. pride,” Richards, also a member of the “Sleep on my friend; you did great.”

Vincy Day USA Committee, a calypsonian and former member of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc., told THE VINCENTIAN. “It was his vision, his baby.

“He not only introduced Vincentian calypsonians at home and abroad to a wider audience, he did this for Grenadians, Trinidadians, St. Decked out (2nd from left) with other honorees and Lucians, etc.,” members at a Vinci Cares Awards ceremony.

Artistes and DJs to the forefront

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12. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Sagicor salutes RFHL records health workers US$#81.7 million in with new half year profits product THE PRESIDENT OF REPUBLIC FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LIMITED (RFHL), Nigel Baptiste, announced today a profit attributable to shareholders of the parent of US$81.7 million for the six-month period ended March 31, 2020, a decline of US$36.1 million or 30.6% below the corresponding period last year. These results reflect preliminary estimates of the financial impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic on the Group as a result of increased operating expenses during the latter half of March 2020 and the setting aside of additional provisions of US$55.3 million for the first half of Fiscal 2020 (2019 - US$20.3 million) to cover potential future losses.

Mr. Baptiste advised that total assets stood at US$14.8 billion at March 31, 2020, an increase of US$2.3 billion or 17.9% over the total assets at March 31, 2019 reflecting mainly the acquisition of Scotiabank’s operations

in St. Maarten and the Eastern Caribbean (except Antigua and Barbuda) on November 1, 2019 which added US$1.9 billion to the Group’s asset base. The acquisition of Scotiabank’s banking operations in the British Virgin Islands remains ongoing, with the Group presently engaged with the regulator in that territory to obtain the requisite approval.

Mr. Baptiste said, “Cognizant of our responsibility to help our clients, staff, and communities navigate these unique challenges, the Group instituted several measures, including loan payment moratoriums, waiver of fees and charges, and interest rate reductions on loans and advances including credit cards.

The Group has also contributed a total of US$2M to national COVID-19 initiatives across the territories in which we operate.”

Stressing the importance of a prudent approach, given the

Fifteen for Corporate Public Speaking Semis THE SEMI-FINAL ROUND of the National Corporate Public Speaking Championship kicks off on 23rd May 2020. Fifteen local corporate representatives will present to a global audience on the topic “Corporate social responsibility plays a vital role in SVG”, in efforts to claim this year’s Championship trophy and the grand prize of $3,000.

This year’s semi-finalists include: Zekeo Audain of the Argyle International Airport; Geniene Browne of Central Water & Sewerage Authority; Terrece John of Coreas Distribution Ltd.; Jada Ross of FLOW; Andreka Samuel of General Employees Cooperative Credit Union; Ruth Stowe

AS THE WORLD, led on the frontline by health professionals, continues to battle against the issues associated with the COVID-19, Sagicor Life Inc. is giving back to the frontline heroes.

On May 12, the company launched the Ravi Rambarran, Health Heroes Group President and Chief Insurance Plan as a way Executive Officer of giving back to those in (CEO) of Sagicor Life, the frontline. considers it our duty to Ravi Rambarran, recognise our health President and Chief professionals who Executive Officer (CEO) battle COVID-19, as of Sagicor Life, explained heroes. that the new product Nigel Baptiste, was consistent with the company’s vision of President of Republic improving lives in the communities in which his Financial Holdings company operates.

Limited (RFHL), “It is our duty to recognize our heroes. Every announced the Bank’s day our doctors, nurses, pharmacists, orderlies, our performance. (Photo administrative staff and their families across the Credit: The Energy year public and private health care sectors, put – TOGY) themselves in harm’s way to take the fight to COVID-19,” Rambarran said in a virtual press contribution to the conference. regional recovery effort “Our heroes are our people, we are one, and we and is fully committed to doing so. We will seek to are honoured to serve them as they serve us,” he balance the interests of continued. all our stakeholders as The new product covers those who work in the we all shoulder the health sector, their staff and family. responsibility of Susan Boyea, Vice President Business restoring sustainable Relationship Management at Sagicor, explained growth to the territories that benefits will be payable on death, including in which we operate.” accidental death, and for certain diagnosed critical (Source: RFHL) illnesses.

Level One of the plan pays $250,000 on death including accident, and $100,000 on diagnosis of critical illness; Level Two will pay $500,000 on death including accident, and $150,000 on diagnosis of critical illness; and Level Three will pay $1,000,000 on death including accident and $300,000 on diagnosis of critical illness.

The product includes a 20 percent complementary cover at all levels and the monthly premiums vary from $85 for Level One to $340 for Level Three, within the English-speaking Caribbean. to the fore the existing design. Users will be able Clients can opt to switch to higher communication and to find an abundance of levels annually, and the sole leadership skills in the information on the site, requirement to purchase one of the levels private and public sectors including a history of the is to be actively at work and a statement of SVG while honing such competition, event skills for the enhanced sponsors, and the Patron of of health of good health for those over 65.

It was highlighted that persons with offering of products and the event, Ms. Desiree pre-existing conditions cannot claim services. This year’s Richards. participants will receive In light of the ongoing under critical illnesses for those coaching, and continually COVID-19 pandemic, the conditions, but can claim for any of the develop their speaking decision was taken to host other illnesses on diagnosis. skills thereafter. the semi-final segment of James Camacho, Vice President of On the verge of the semi- the competition online as a Operations and one of the architects of finals slated for May 23, pay-per-view event, a first the new product, said that the company the executive of the for the Championship. was excited about what they had to offer.

National Corporate Public Persons interested in “This is a first step in covering those Speaking Championship viewing the semi-final in the frontline in the COVID-19 has launched its website at event can purchase their situation, and there are more initiatives ncpscsvg.com. The website, tickets for the online to come; but this is the first where we created with optimal user stream through recognize the health industry for those experience in mind, offers a ncpscsvg.com. (Submitted who are out there putting their lives on

by NCPSC) simple, easy-to-navigate the line for us,” he said. (DD)

many uncertainties as a result of the current pandemic, Mr. Baptiste went on to say, “Notwithstanding the public health measures implemented to date, there is uncertainty globally in respect of the intensity and duration of this crisis, and it is unclear what the social, economic and market conditions will be like once the crisis is over.

Prudence requires therefore, that financial institutions adopt a defensive posture to preserve the stability of individual institutions and the integrity of the overall financial system.

Therefore, until the full repercussions are clearer, and to preserve the capital available to the Group, the Board of Directors has declared a reduced interim dividend of US$0.09 (2019: US$0.19) per share payable on June 5, 2020.”

In closing, Mr. Baptiste added, “Republic Financial Holdings is well-placed to make a major

representing the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union; Terry Clarke of KPMG; Courtnae Cumberbatch and Joanna Nwogu representing Metrocint General Insurance Co. Ltd.; Shaniese Cole representing Massy; Aviar Charles representing the National Insurance Services; Ronika Boyd representing NTRC; Sylvorn Lavia representing the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force; Elingford Roban Jr. representing Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority; and Nicolette Nichols representing the Treasury Department.

The competition brings

V Dr. Friday donates to Vincy students in Jamaica

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 13.

News

Dr. Godwin Friday’s fundraiser to assist Vincentian students might just have to be re-focused on those in Cuba.

A RECENT BI-LATERAL philanthropic move saw Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Vincentian Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday partnering to help alleviate some of the immediate living resource needs of Vincentians, currently studying in Jamaica.

The outreach, we were told, was acted upon after Sujae Boswell — a Youth Advisor to the Government of Jamaica

and Chancellor Hall Chairman at the UWI — interceded on the affected students’ behalf.

In an exclusive interview, Boswell explained, “It is understandably a difficult time for us all and it is important that we stand together in solidarity. The Vincentian Student’s Association (VINSAJA) has been publicly advocating on behalf of their students and so I was moved to act.

“The impacts of COVID-19 have been profound. I noted, with great worry, the situation which Vincentian students are facing here and so I made requests of my contacts from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and we were able to secure support from Dr. Godwin Friday who jumped onboard without any hesitation. PM Holness also came onboard to support.”

The care packages were

distributed via the Jamaican chapter of the Vincentian Students’ Association on Monday to, “all who needed.”

Dr. Friday, the NDP President and contender for the Prime Ministership here, was tight lipped about the donations.

To date, the only public mention of this generosity is on the VINSAJA instagram

PM Gonsalves warns returning nationals IN A PHONE CALL CONVERSATION with Augustine Ferdinand meant to update listeners of the ULP centered ‘Shake Up’ radio show last Tuesday, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves counseled Vincentians who recently returned to SVG and are also accused of breaking quarantine regulations.

“I just want to repeat for everybody; those who came in from the BVI, those who came in on Carnival — look yo in quarantine, stay in quarantine in yo home, eh. Those of you in yo quarantine in yo home — just stay there.

“Because one person who came in on Wednesday night last week from BVI, by Friday night he was out! He was quickly reported and the police went for him and put him in a government approved facility.

And there are a couple of others who came in on Saturday on Carnival [Glory] who are coming out on the road breaking the quarantine; they have already been contacted by the police.”

Dr. Gonsalves also weighed in, somewhat, on the how recently catered for penalties in amended laws could be possibly triggered.

“As you know, enforcement of laws depend on the civilian authorities, that is the police and not the politicians; I always make that point. And as a young democracy we have to always constantly make that point so we don’t have politicians insisting who should be prosecuted and who should not be prosecuted.

That’s a journey as a mature leader that I don’t want to go down.

“We have done our work.

Look so far we have been going in a way where we are following the guidelines, people are buying in; I don’t want these persons who are coming — our returning workers, our seafarers and the like — to really breach our trust in this way by not following the quarantine.

“And I’m just telling them, there are people out there who are looking. People report yesterday for instance that somebody from Layou was The warning to absconders walking about, somebody also and those thinking of from Barrouallie, somebody absconding from quarantine they said too from South has come from the very top Rivers. But I think the police of the fountain of state have contacted all those individuals. People are calling authority. in and we have our own the alleged quarantine structures and systems.” absconders.

It is not clear what, if any charges, were brought against

page.

Dr. Friday has, in fact, proposed a fundraiser intended to further help the overseas-based students. He did so via Facebook stream early Monday evening and with Colin Graham, host of the NDP Monday Night Live broadcast.

Dr. Friday noted budgetary constraints for most students … and that their sparse resources may stretch further.

He said, “I have a son who’s at university as well… you’re getting down to the end of the term, you hardly have money to buy groceries….

“If we can use this platform here to help raise funds — if that’s the only way to do , then naturally we should do so. I don’t believe in having the students there and they become pawns or part of some political drama.”

The Northern Grenadines MP was mindful that he may just step on a few toes, should the NDP roll out this proposal.

He told viewers and subscribers, “the students would have to request that they want to do it and the parents — I don’t want to infringe on anybody’s rights or feelings or anything of that sort.”

Stories: jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

LOVNSVG intensifies its activism VINCENTIAN NON-PROFIT Leave Out Violence in SVG (LOVNSVG), a Vincentian Non-Government Organization (NGO), continues to highlight the cause of domestic abuse victims here and in the Diaspora.

A help line campaign is just one of their latest outreach initiatives. A series of flyers are being promoted across social media platforms and they are generating the anticipated calls.

“During COVID-19, we know a lot of women are experiencing domestic violence and children are facing child abuse, the numbers have gone up tremendously worldwide,” Founder and President Nailah John told us.

So far, the NGO has been able to intervene in more than several cases providing, “counseling, access to pro bono lawyers and the necessary information to get clients to the next step,” John elaborated.

The soon to be 9 year-old NGO is also enhancing capacity to address human trafficking issues here. “Last week we engaged in a human trafficking meeting with other ‘non-profits’ across the Caribbean region, and we’re hoping to have another meeting shortly in regard to our way forward,” John said in this regard.

She was cognizant that many persons are still very much unaware of the

attendant concerns, saying, “It’s an issue that we feel is important to bring to the forefront so people could better understand what human trafficking is, and the necessary measures one must take to help fight against it.”

One of the other things LOVNSVG is aiming to do in the coming week, “is to put the petition for the sex offenders registry back out onto all social media platforms. A lot of people are home now and may be able to see it through those avenues, and we plan to send those petitions to the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as soon as COVID has settled down a bit.”

So far, they have amassed

One of the flyers used by LOVNSVG across social media platforms. just over 4000 of the 6000 signatures they plan on submitting, in their bid to agitate the Dr. Ralph Gonsalves-led administration to establish the legal framework which would allow

government authorities to keep track of sex offenders activities, including those who have completed their criminal sentences, while providing ancillary services like rehabilitative counseling, etc.

V

14. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

130 farm workers off to Canada ONE HUNDRED and thirty Vincentian (130) farm workers left the state for Toronto, Canada on Tuesday, May 12, to take up jobs on various farms under the Seasonal Agricultural Farm Workers Programme.

The workers left via a chartered Sunwing aircraft and on arrival in Canada, are expected to be quarantined for 14 days.

Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar was at the Argyle International Airport, to bid farewell

to the workers.

In brief remarks to the media, he thanked the farm workers and personnel at the Department of Labour for their cooperation throughout the process.

Caesar also thanked the OECS Secretariat and Labour Departments throughout the OECS for the role they played in ensuring the arrangements were in place for the workers.

“They’ve been working very hard over the past two months to ensure

Farm workers await special clearance at the AIA before taking their Sunwing flight to Canada.

that even though there is a crisis, … a pandemic in the world … we were able to mobilize farmers in SVG; we were able to work with employers in Canada and the government of Canada to ensure that today was possible,” said the Agriculture Minister.

He assured that all of the persons who left the state were given the rapid test for COVID-19, and they all came back negative.

The farm workers programme

According to a Ben Harrison article entitled ‘Canada & St.Vincent And The Grenadines Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme’ as published in THE VINCENTIAN of July 21, 2017, “The Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme is a Canadian government programme that was introduced over 50 years ago between Canada and Jamaica, and has expanded through the years to include Mexico and other Caribbean countries, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“The programme is a Canadian Federal Government guest worker programme allowing employers to hire temporary foreign workers when Canadians and permanent residents are not available.

“The workers can be hired for a maximum period of eight months between January 1 and December 15, provided they can offer the workers a minimum of 240 hours of work within a period of six weeks or less.

“Workers from St. Vincent and the Grenadines are required to have some experience in farming, be at least 18 years of age, be a citizen of SVG and able to satisfy immigration laws of both countries.

“Employers arrange and pay for round-trip transportation by air from St. Vincent to the location of their work in Canada. A portion of these costs can be recovered by the employer through payroll deduction.

“Employers also provide free suitable housing either on the farm or off-site which has been officially inspected and approved by an authorized, certified official housing inspector.” (KH)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 17.

Education

Partial reopening of school to begin Senior primary and secondary students could well be returning to their schools next Monday, May 18.

MINISTER OF EDUCATION St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince disclosed on radio, May 10, that education officials were looking at May 18 or 25 as the date when

school here would be partially reopened.

Prince said that education officials were leaning towards May 18 as the preferred date.

of repairs and cleaning that will be required.

Funding has already been earmarked for this, Prince assured, and he “We were thinking opening, Prince said, Prince pointed to some highlighted that discussions are ongoing with fifth formers, Grade things that his Ministry about that, we put that needed to address before with suppliers for the timeline down — but of 6 and TVET students purchase and course this is not cast in being the first to return they could think about installation of wash stone because we have to to class. allowing students back stands. have these things in “These examinations into the classroom.

As for transportation Towards this end. place to ensure the safest people, we want them to of students, to Prince, environment for both go in first; they will need Prince said his Ministry teachers and students,” engagement before doing was working closely with the Ministries of Education and Transport the Minister said. their exams,” Prince the Ministry of Health were in dialogue. explained and cited and BRAGSA to do a He explained that “We wouldn’t want health and safety were allowing for the return of comprehensive students jamming up assessment of the paramount in the limited numbers of coming to school,” Prince ongoing deliberations, students will make for nation’s schools which will determine the types quipped. (DD) and he emphasized that easier supervision. they wanted teachers, students and parents to feel confident that the school’s environment was safe.

Therefore, there was a proposed phased

Integrity maintained in CXC 2020 format PERSONS CONCERNED HAVE BEEN GIVEN the assurance that the integrity and validity of the modified format for the 2020 examinations administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) have not been compromised, and parents and students generally have voiced support for the efforts being made to ensure the education system does not become overly disjointed or unduly interrupted.

This was the view expressed by Minister of Education St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince who said on radio on May 10, that while some St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, Minister of territories have expressed concerns, Education the consensus was that a revised format for the examinations should But Prince referenced meetings of be administered, despite the OECS and CARICOM Education interruption of instruction time by the Ministers, at which some Ministers COVID-19 pandemic, which have expressed concern about the format forced students to remain out of the change and the date for the classrooms. examination.

A release issued by CXC on March THE JAMAICAN Government falls 26 stated that the Council recognized into the category of dissenting voices. the impact of COVID-19 on the According to a Gleaner Newspaper education system...more specifically on report. The Government of Jamaica the schedule of CXC’s regional has “parted company with its examinations….and had accordingly Caribbean counterparts on a July date proposed a revision to examination to sit the 2020 CXC administered format. examinations.

This format change proposed a Notwithstanding the concerns modified examination process that expressed, The University of the West would include one common paper in Indies and universities in the United the form of multiple-choice Kingdom have indicated that they will assessments and School Based accept the results of the revised Assessments and Paper 032s for examination format. private candidates, with final grades As it relates to the Caribbean being awarded based on the Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) moderated SBAs and Multiple Choice examination administered to Grade 6 Papers. students, this exam will take place on CXC examinations — the Caribbean June 25 and 26.

Secondary Education Certificate and Students will write this the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency examination at their respective schools Examination tests. — have been set for in order to minimize movement, the July.

Minister said. (DD)

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16. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Focus

INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY A Message from the Dean School of Nursing - SVGCC

THE DIVISION OF NURSING EDUCATION, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC), joins with the rest of the world in saluting nurses on International Nurse’s Day and on the 200th Anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale.

International Nurses Day is celebrated on May 12 each year. The theme for International Nurses Day 2020 is” “Nurses a voice to lead, Nursing a world to health”.

The Division of Nursing Education/SVGCC, congratulates nurses in St. Vincent & the Grenadines and all over the world for their extraordinary work in saving lives, and for their bravery on the frontline of the fight against the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder of the vital role that nurses play in our health care system, and the true value of frontline workers, not least being nurses. Today, more than ever, the Division of Nursing Education celebrates the role that nurses have played, and will continue to play in our lives, as SVG and

countries around the world continue to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and its tragic consequences.

It is fitting on the occasion of International Nurses Day 2020 that the Division of Nursing Education, the lone training institution for nurses in SVG, commemorates the efforts and indispensable contribution that nurses made to our society. Special mention must be made of the nurses who are employed as Dean, Deputy Dean, Lecturers and Clinical Instructors at the Division of Nursing Education, who are responsible for training nurses and other nursing personnel to meet the needs and demands of an ever-changing healthcare system locally, regionally and internationally.

The institution will continue to upgrade and revise its programme offerings to ensure relevance and timeliness and moreover, to prepare graduates who are capable of providing promotive, preventive, curative, restorative and rehabilitative care to individuals, families and communities, especially in wake of new and emerging diseases such as

COVID-19.

Sister Beverly Liverpool Dean - Division of Nursing Education, SVGCC

Dean Beverly Liverpool

Nurses on the frontline THE SVG RETIRED NURSES ASSOCIATION (SVGRNA) salutes the nurses in St. Vincent & the Grenadines and around the world, who are on the frontlines of the battle against the coronavirus.

When the International Council of Nurses in collaboration with the World Health Organization launched the “Nursing Now” campaign and designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife, no one realized how meaningful this would become, as the COVID19 pandemic was not on the horizon. Since we became aware of the virus in February, it has swiftly and aggressively taken over the world, becoming the first pandemic in most people’s lifetime, killing thousands including nurses.

As the novel coronavirus ravages the world, many nurses find themselves on the frontlines, leaving their homes and families for days even weeks to become involved in testing, contact tracing, working in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, bringing them

in direct contact with persons affected with the virus. The risk is great!

The risk of spreading this virus is so high that family members of patients are not allowed to visit or be at the bedside of their loved ones, many dying alone. Nurses are carrying out their duties while having to comfort their patients, holding hands, making calls to their loved ones and, at times, enabling them to say their goodbyes through electronic devices.

Many nurses have lost their lives and some find themselves in the heartbreaking position of having to care for sick and dying colleagues. As they work together, they do not know who will be the next to fall victim to this deadly virus.

Despite this, nurses around the world are answering the call to be on the frontlines. A nurse when asked by a journalist why she answered that call, simply said, “Because I am a nurse.”

We salute all nurses, especially those on the COVID-19 frontlines, for

Advira Providence, President of the SVGRNA their dedication to the profession, for the sacrifices of self and their families to preserve the health and life of others. We honor them for their suffering and forbearance as they deal with the staggering numbers of illnesses and deaths in such a short period of time. Nursing is a profession that assumes responsibility for the continuous care of the sick, the disabled, and the dying. We are also responsible for the promotion of community, family and individual health.

As retired nurses, we are concerned for those on the frontlines in SVG and elsewhere. We are encouraging you the public, to adhere to the recommendations of the National Covid-19 Task Force: wear a mask when going out in public; maintain physical distancing; wash your hands with soap and water utilizing friction for 20 seconds; and maintain social contacts with friends and families.

We are also asking you to look out for your neighbours and those in high risk categories - the elderly, the sick, shutins, and the disabled.

Stay home, if possible, to protect yourself and other health care personnel. We encourage all nursing staff to remain calm and focused as we combat COVID-19 pandemic.

2020 is indeed the Year of the Nurse!

Advira Providence President, and members of SVGRNA.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 17.

Community

Soroptimists elect new executive MEMBERS of Soroptimist International of St. Vincent and the Grenadines convened their 33rd Annual General Meeting on Saturday 24th April, 2020, via Zoom.

Sixteen (16) of the twenty-nine (29) members registered their presence on the meeting platform, and they were able to complete the proceedings in under 2 hours.

Reports of the outgoing President Rene Baptiste, Secretary JosieAnn Small, Programme Action Chairperson Miriam Roache and Treasurer Euna

Thompson were all tabled and adopted.

Congratulations were extended to: sponsor scholar Ms. Zelacher Baptiste on her meritorious performance at the Intermediate High School; Sister Miriam Roache and Sister Christine Da Silva on their recent Awards for Women Development and Entrepreneurship respectfully at the Gender Development’s Award Ceremony; and H.E. Dame Susan Dougan on the Award of the GCMG. Dame Susan Dougan

is a Soroptimist and will be inducted as the Club’s Patron as soon as it is convenient so to do.

Elections were held and the following persons were returned to hold office for the 20202021 term: Sis Ikarmola La Borde - President; Sis Donnette O’Neal - Vice President; Sis Josie-Ann Small - Secretary; Sis Euna Thompson — Treasurer; Sis Miriam Roache - Programme Action Committee Chair Person; Sis Christine DaSilva Communications Officer; Sis Keisha Fraser-

Membership Officer; Sis Lavinnia Gunn Sis Ikarmola La Borde, newly elected President of Soroptimist Development International of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (File Photo).

Officer.

Sis The Club has set four Project, MCMH Wards Ikarmola La Borde will (4) primary goals for Gift Giving, Secondary represent the Club at 2020- 2021: School Scholarship the Federation Level as rehabilitation of the Programme, Support to Councillor, and Sis Comfort Station; WPP Autism and Speech Miriam Roache and Sis contribution of the Therapy Clinics.

Rene Baptiste Prison Project- “Standing New President Sis (Immediate Past up for Women behind lkarmola will preside President) will do Bars”; a Membership over the First Meeting in likewise at the Drive to recruit new May, which is generally Caribbean Regional level members; continuing celebrated as Soroptimist as the Soroptimist programmes with the Membership Day. International Caribbean Glebe Day Nursery, the Network (SICN) Helping Hands Centre, (Source: Soroptimist Representatives.

Primary Schools’ Library International of SVG)

World Family Doctor Day 2020 Family Doctors, since February this (Submitted by Drs. Miriam Sheridan year, have been particularly impacted with the new coronavirus outbreak, and many are on the frontline working with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment (MOHWE).

We encourage our patients at this time to stay safe, stay home as much as possible, wear a mask if you must be among others, and practise physical THE World Organization of Family and social distancing.

Doctors (WONCA) celebrates its 10th Some of us have organized video year of World Family Doctor Day conferencing, while others have (WFDD) next Tuesday, May 19, 2020. enforced distancing in our offices by The theme for this year is: “Family spacing our chairs 3 feet apart, and Doctors on the Frontline”. ensure that masks are worn by all. In A family doctor is focussed on meeting the needs of the entire family. addition, we are constantly and Unlike other doctors who specialize in reliably updating COVID-19.

We are also available by phones to treating one particular disease, your our patients. family doctor is uniquely trained to Let’s all continue to support the care for you as a whole person, MOHWE to combat the coronavirus as regardless of your age or gender. best we can.

There are many family doctors Be sensible, follow the instructions across the length and breadth of St. of the Health officials and stay safe.

Vincent and the Grenadines.

and Francesca Onu)

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18. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

A friend in need… ??

Dear George, THINGS ARE not so good with me right now, so I approached a ‘trusted’ friend for a small loan. I was terribly disappointed and embarrassed with the way he responded.

I called him outside (his yard) to speak with him, and when he heard my request, he called his wife for her to hear my story. She immediately blurted her husband had no extra money to spend on “people who think they are high and mighty.”

George, these are the same people who have leaned on me financially and otherwise in the past. I even paid their first child’s college tuition back when I was doing well. Now that I’ve fallen on hard times, I’m forced to do this and I wished I never did.

I never got the $185.00 dollars that I wanted God is good. Should I speak to these people ever again?

Dear Hurt friend, As it stands, you have done these people no wrong, so it’s not advisable to adopt the stance of never talking to them again. They have shown what stuff they are made of and it’s now left to them to make efforts to renew their image in your eyes.

Their happiness going forward will depend how much of a conscience they have left. It was your friend’s right to refuse you the loan and it would be yours if/when the need arises for you to be the Good Samaritan.

Leave this alone and look for other means to get by

George

Hurt friend

Show some appreciation seeing someone else?

I forgot to mention that she is a nurse working in Kingstown.

understanding and appreciation for what she does, and let her MY WIFE has not know there will be no touched me for 4 weeks. bedroom pressure coming I asked her about it and from you. she blamed it the present On dry dock It will be a good idea if pandemic. She wants Dear On dry dock, she can reach out to me to believe that her someone just for her to mind is not on sex Your wife could be talk about her feelings. because she is stressed telling you the truth.

Knowing that you are out by what’s going on.

She even suggested that Being a frontline worker there playing the role an understanding husband I could give her the virus and given her daily experiences at this time, will help things to return if I made love to her. could be having a serious to normalcy in a much My strong belief is psychological impact quicker time. that she has either lost which can be manifested or is losing interest in in various ways.

George the marriage.

Show her some Could it be she is

Dear George,

Dear with then trust issue Dear George, MY GIRLFRIEND and I are planning on getting married. However, we cannot decide whether we’ll get married in a church, which she wants, or at the courthouse, which I want.

She is accusing me of not wanting the church wedding because I don’t want my other women to see when we get married. But the truth is, I just want to save us some money. We cannot afford the kind of

wedding she wants. I do not want a huge debt after the wedding.

I’m holding my ground. What do you think?

Wise head Dear Wise head, The reason your girlfriend gave for you choosing a courthouse arrangement speaks to possible static in the relationship, i.e. doubt,

lack of trust, commitment and loyalty.

I suggest that you two deal with this trust question first, then proceed to deciding on the type of wedding you can afford. There should be no doubt in her mind that you are truly and solely hers.

Some pre-marital counselling could help get both of you on the same page.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Look into making changes to your personal papers and don’t neglect those bills that have been piling up. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Problems with colleagues are likely.

Difficulties may be encountered while travelling in foreign countries. Keep the promises you’ve made or you can expect to be in the doghouse.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Emotional relationships will be plentiful if you attend group activities. Look into events that you might find interesting, and compromise by doing a few things that you both like to do.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Do not reveal personal information to those you feel may be untrustworthy.

Heed the advice given by family or old reliable friends. You have a lot to offer.

Your changing philosophies may lead you into new circles.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You can finish projects early, which will bring you praise from superiors. You will be popular with acquaintances; however, loved ones could feel left out and insecure. Don’t be critical or overly opinionated with dislikes.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your ability to communicate with ease will win the hearts of those you are in touch with this week. You are better off visiting friends or relatives than entertaining at home.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) However, you may not attract the kind of interest you had in mind. Look into any educational activities involving the whole family. Don’t hesitate to go ahead with any plans for entertainment.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Don’t get depressed, get busy. You can accomplish a lot if you’re willing to put in a little extra time. Don’t start any arguments unless you’re prepared to accept irrevocable results.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your family may not be pleased with your decisions. Advancement can be yours if you put your efforts into work related matters. Travel opportunities should be your first choice.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Try not to overspend on friends or family.

You must lay down ground rules so that you can complete a job. You may find that romance will unfold through business connections. This is not the best day to visit relatives who get on your nerves.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Look after financial transactions this week. You may find travel to be most rewarding. Don’t be angry, but be on your guard. You have worked hard and the payback is now.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Be sure that the person you’re drawn to is not already involved. Entertainment could cost you more than you expect.

Secret affairs will eventually backfire on you. You will be full of good ideas.

ACROSS 1. Pool float 5. Ladder rung 9. Macadamia – 12. Indiana neighbor 13. Loathe 14. Wrath 15. Cave dwellers 16. Job opportunities 18. More confident 20. Come together 21. Upward climb 24. Siesta 26. Manor men 27. At a distance 28. Contains 31. Film legend Lupino 32. Fully mature 34. Wallet bill 35. Tavern account 36. Fragrant pine 37. Undue swiftness 39. Energy 40. Cleaned (bookshelves) 41. Cooing bird 44. Twisted grins 46. Phone number start: 2 wds.

48. Differently 52. Soap shape 53. Surrounded by 54. Wrench or hammer 55. Devious 56. Rodent pests 57. Be pouty DOWN 1. Commit theft 2. “That’s it!”

3. Tantrum 4. Threw

5. Hardly tall 6. Sticky strip 7. Endless 8. Critter enclosure 9. Three times three 10. Yen 11. Try out 17. Mischievous youth 19. In danger 21. Landed 22. Fizzy drink 23. Sea crustacean 25. Playwright Miller 27. Animal cost 28. Party giver 29. Poker stake 30. Farm supply

33.Commencement 43. Extremely document 45. Revise 38. Good features (manuscripts) 39. Small veggie 47. Wheeled 40. Actions vehicle 41. Brushes (on) 49. Singer Rawls 42. Like some 50. Fa follower medications 51. Moose cousin

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

SVGCA launches VPL T-10 Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of the SVG Cricket Association at the launch of the VPL T-10 tournament.

officially launched at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex last Monday.

In his address at the launch, Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of the SVG Cricket Association (SVGCA) and Vice President of Cricket West Indies Inc. CWI) said, “It is exciting times for SVG cricket. We are embarking on something totally new in this country a T-10 tournament - first time ever a franchise system with six teams. I am feeling the buzz from the players, management and sport enthusiasts who have been thirsty for cricket for some time.”

In giving something about the genesis of the Tournament, Shallow explained, “I was Keron Cottoy – marquee player approached by a colleague for Fort Charlotte Strikers. who works for an Indian company called ‘Dream 11’, a Desron technology Maloney company (a marquee fantasy sports player for platform) based in La Soufriere Mumbai India, Hikers. with a user membership of 80 million, which will be our main audience. Out of this the VPL was conceived and developed.”

Shallow, in addressing the constraints occasioned by the COVID-19, said that “one of the first s we did is to reach out to the SIX TEAMS WILL COMPETE in the inaugural SVG Cricket Association VPL T-10 Cricket Tournament.

The Tournament was

Prime Minister,” who formally endorsed the Tournament.

Consultations were also held with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders.

With respect to conforming to recommended practices during this period, Shallow assured: that players will be transported together so as Lindon James – marquee player for Obed McCoy - marquee player for not to expose Grenadines Divers.

Dark View Explorers. them unnecessarily to the public; during short breaks between innings, the players will be provided with hand sanitizers, etc.; and spaces will be assigned to teams to encourage physical distancing.

In addition, Shallow said, members of the Royal SVG Police Force will be at matches to ensure that spectators comply with the Sunil Ambris – marquee player for Keswick Williams – marquee social distancing as Salt Pond Breakers. player for Botanic Gardens recommended.

Rangers.

The teams in the James; Fort Charlotte tournament are: Grenadines Strikers - coach Kenroy Grant, marquee player Sunil Divers - coach Ian Allen, Martin, manager Parnel Ambris. manager Roland Wilkinson, Browne, marquee player The tournament will begin marquee player Obed McCoy; Keron Cottoy; Botanic on May 22nd and run until the La Soufriere Hikers - coach Gardens Rangers - coach 30th. Matches are scheduled Irvin Warrican, manager Nixon Mclean, manager Elvis for the Arnos Vale Playing Rawle Caine, marquee player Browne, marquee player Field and will begin at 8.30am Desron Maloney; Dark View Keswick Williams; Salt Pond and end at 2pm on each day.

Explorers - coach Bertrum Breakers - coach Orlanzo Stapleton, manager Elron Jackson, manager Ricky I.B.A.ALLEN Lewis, marquee player Lindon

Dream11, operational since 2012, is also the official partner of the top sports leagues in the world such as the Hero CPL, Hero ISL, and NBA.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 21.

Sports

“Tap in on Vincentian expertise,” Wayne Williams Williams noted that there is a wealth of knowledge among Vincentians especially in the area of sports and sports education specifics.

“There are a lot of Vincentians out there, who are doing good things for university programmes and national athletes from other countries, and they are willing to share their knowledge once they are called upon,” Williams pointed out.

Damani Against that Thomas, background, another Williams resource person appealed to who will present national sports as the Forum associations to continues.

WAYNE WILLIAMS, Director and Founder and of the Sunshine Basketball Academy of St Vincent and the Grenadines, wants to see a thrust towards seeking out more Vincentian expertise.

Jody Nickie, one of the resource persons who have already made a presentation.

The Green Hill Sports and Cultural Club (GHSCC) denotes its mission and its areas of concern.

reach out to such persons, so that they could help build capacity among coaches and trainers especially.

He believes that by tapping on those persons with Vincentian backgrounds, there would be a better understanding of the limitations and cultural orientation here in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“They will already understand the local situation, and with that understanding, they are in a better position to work with what exists locally to help to bring them to that international level,” Williams opined.

And, Williams has taken the lead in this regard. He has obtained

the expertise of two US based Vincentians - Jody Nickie and Damani Thomas - who are two of the resource personnel currently availing themselves to a weekly online Sports Education Forum, organized by the Sunshine Basketball Academy.

Commenting on the initiative, Williams stated, “Our aim is to improve the education level of players, coaches, students and parents through scientific methods”.

Among the topics examined in the Forum are: Conditioning and Physiotherapy, Nutrition and Physiology and Motivation.

Other than Nickie and Thomas, Nathalia Rupert, who has some

Vincentian connections, and Kheston Walkins are the main presenters in the forum, which runs from 4 to 6pm, on Sundays.

Utilising the Zoom platform, interested persons can log on to http://us02web.zoo.us/j/82 021191213, this Sunday, when Rupert will be looking at Optimal Nutrition for Optimised Athletic Performance.

The ID number for Sunday’s Forum is 82021191213.

The Forum got started on Sunday 3rd May with Nickie presenting on the topic Triphasic Periodisation. A followup discussion on the topic took place on Wednesday 6th May. On Sunday last, Walkins was the lead

Green Hill Sports Club marks milestone

Wayne Williams presenter; he looked at Mind Over Master.

An upbeat Williams projected: “We hope that these sessions will enlighten those who participate and give them a more in depth insight of various topics… We hope that the information shared will contribute towards you realising your full potential, thus enhancing the development of sports in here and the region.”

The Club boasts a proud record of THE GREEN crime and violence in 2015; lighting Olympic Day HILL SPORTS community-based projects and the Hardcourt in 2017 with assistance Run. AND Cultural activities, which some say is the envy from the Australian Embassy.

The Green Club (GHSCC) of other community-based Other undertakings and activities Hill Sports will celebrate organizations throughout the state. spearheaded by the Club: conceiving and Cultural The list of accomplishments include: and supervising a Children’s its 39th Club was initiating an Environmental Billboard Playground Project; ongoing Playing anniversary this year, and Carlos formed in Carlos Williams is a Awareness Programme in 1984-87; Williams, President of the Club, is Field maintenance; hosting an Annual 1981 and founding member of happy that the work they have been constructing footpaths in 1984; Spelling B competition; supervising a registered the Club and is its doing has impacted on the community spearheading a pipe borne water 4H Club Agriculture Project which is under the current President. project with the CWSA in 1987; in one way or the other. ongoing; leading the annual Christmas new “The focus of the organization is to conducting a Community Survey in lighting activities; annual wreathCompanies 1992; establishing a Community work towards community laying ceremony in memory of Act, CAP. 143, in 2013. development, through the self-help Library in1989; constructing a MultiNational Hero Joseph Chatoyer; Founding members were Carlos approach. To accomplish this goal over purpose Hardcourt in 1998 with participating in the annual Carnival Williams, Douglas Knights, Cleve assistance from NYC; constructing the years, the club has engaged in J’Ouvert Competition; organizing Blugh (deceased) and Franklyn Porter washroom facilities at the Hardcourt sporting, educational, environmental, annual social environmental hikes, (deceased). in 2015 with assistance from KFC; cultural and basic needs self-help picnics; participating in annual activities. At present the Club is seen facilitating Community discussions on National Netball Tournament and the I.B.A.ALLEN as the only community-based organization for organizing, mobilizing and getting things done on a voluntary basis in the community,” Williams said.

He continues, “Plans to commemorate the 39th anniversary have been scaled down due to the current pandemic. These plans would have taken on a ‘Celebrating 40 years’ theme from this year. Proposed plans were: A church service, the annual Spelling B competition, hikes, picnics and social walks. These would have been spread out over the Getting down to the hard work involved in ensuring Green Even the young members of the community got involved in the month of April.”

Hill got its Hardcourt. construction of the Children’s playground.

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22. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

TASVG in touch with overseas athletes

IN THE MIDST of the disruption in major sport events across the globe caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, several overseasbased Vincentian track and field athletes continue to train and compete as usual.

And they are in constant communication with officials of Team Athletics SVG. According to President of Team Athletics SVG Keith Joseph, his organisation has set things in motion to have the athletes dialogue with assigned liaison personnel.

“Team Athletics St Vincent and the Grenadines (TASVG) is in constant contact with our athletes in Jamaica, those at the Jamaica College and the others at the GC Foster School of Physical Education and Sport... . Senior athlete, McKish Compton, has been asked to be our chief liaison and has been coordinating the relations

between all of our Keith Joseph, athletes and informing President of TASVG, TASVG,” Joseph assured that his revealed.

Executive had Joseph said that implemented Compton has been in measures to ensure touch with SVG’s constant contact with Consular Officer, Ms overseas-based Pamela Barbour, athletes.

Beyond the regarding arrangements for a possible flight to have the Caribbean, Kineke Alexander, who is based at a training camp Vincentian students, athletes in Florida, is TASVG’s prime included, brought home at the liaison with athletes studying conclusion of the current and training in the USA. academic semester.

Joseph confirmed that Several Vincentian athletes Alexander, “…has been are studying in Jamaica constantly updating the institutions. executive.”

Apart from Compton, the Among those who are other Vincentian athletes residing in the USA are: currently studying in Jamaica include: Handal Roban, Desroy Adonson Shallow, Delhonni Nicol-Samuel, Jummone Jordan, Keiffer Bailey, Akani Exeter, Kimorie Shearman, Slater, Uroy Ryan, Krishroy Brandon Valentine-Parris, Williams, OJ Jackson, Darria Matthias and Shaffiqua Aravinda Shallow and Javon Maloney.

Rawlins.

Zefal Bailey frustrated by cycling lay off ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ top Male cyclist- Zefal Bailey expressed being “frustrated” with having not to do what he likes doing best.

Bailey, like many sportsmen and women across the globe, have been stymied because of the threats of the coronavirus induced COVID19 pandemic.

“All I can say is that I am frustrated with just not having to train as I wish, neither to go out nor compete,” Bailey lamented.

His frustrations have been Zefal Bailey, frustrated but hopeful.

heightened by his assessment that 2020 was his breakthrough year.

In February this year, Bailey became a part of the Team Cadence Cyclery, a Cycling team out of the USA. He had envisaged being very active this year, and would have spent a lot of time overseas in competition on various circuits.

Amidst his obvious disappointments, Bailey admitted, “I understand the situation and it is nothing we can do.”

He did disclose, however, that in the last two weeks he has recommenced some training, whilst observing the many health protocols.

He is hopeful that the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union will be able to have at least a few keep fit events, in keeping with the social and physical distancing adherences.

The last event staged by the SVG Cycling Union took place on Sunday 8th March.

Junior CASA Squash Championships cancelled IT IS NOW official. The 2020 Junior Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Championships have been cancelled.

The championships were set for Bermuda, from July 18 — 26.

The cancellation of the championships came after the Bermuda Squash Racquets Association (BSRA) indicated the mitigating circumstances behind their inability to host this year’s edition.

In a letter to the Regional Squash Associations, Director of the BSRA Patrick Foster, stated, inter alia: “Current situation for Junior CASA is considerable sponsor issues, no flights, no hotels, most business closed and sports clubs being listed as the last phase of our reopening plan.”

He continued, “There is no timetable for this reopening plan and a high probability it gets put on hold if there is any jump in number of cases”.

Bermuda was put on lockdown as a measure to combat the spread of the coronavirus and its resulting COVID-19 disease.

“We are open to hosting in 2021, subject to COVID19 being under control and securing sufficient sponsorship,” Foster projected.

With the cancellation of the Junior CASA Championships 2020, it means that Vincentian Jayden George will be unable to defend his Boys’ Under-11 Singles title.

George won the title in 2019 in Trinidad and Tobago, when he beat Bermudan Owen

Rosera 11/8, 11/6, 11/6, in the final.

Dru Samuel and Jaydon Williams finished in the top three.

Jayden George Samuel was – reigning U-11 third in the Junior CASA Boys UnderSquash 11 and Williams was Champion. third in the Boys Under-13.

And Nadira Morgan won the Girls’ Under-15 consolation and ended fifth in her age division.

Last year marked the return of this country as a single entity entrant in the Championship, after many years of being part of an OECS team.

A Reflection on InterSchools Athletics Championship

by CURTIS M. KING THE FEAR of the spread of the novel coronavirus and the impact of its resulting COVID-19 disease, have caused an unprecedented disruption of life throughout the world.

Given that social or physical distancing is one of the strategies employed to limit the spread of this disease, sporting events are among the activities that either been cancelled or severely restricted because of their potential to attract large groups of persons in close proximity to each other.

It follows then, that the finals of the 2020 edition of the Inter-Secondary Schools Athletics Championship here were cancelled. The cancellation, while widely understood and accepted, has left many questions, the answers to some residing in the realm of speculation.

This ‘break’ has provided us with an opportunity to reflect on the journey of our premier Athletics Championship for secondary students.

The 2020 edition, if it was complete, would have been the 49th occasion on which the Championship would have been successfully hosted.

The first Championship, organized by a group of teachers from the participating schools, was held on the 21st of March, 1966 at the Grammar School Playing Field, Richmond Hill. Four schools participated, with the resulting reading: 1st - Boys Grammar School; 2nd Emmanuel High School Kingstown; 3rd - Bishop’s College Kingstown; and 4th Intermediate High School.

Thereafter, the Championship was expanded to include a female division and more schools. A five-year hiatus between the 4th and 5th editions of the Championships threatened the continuity of the competition.

But, when the 5th edition was held in 1976, it was a gala event. An Organizing Committee took over the administration of the Championship; trophies to be won were put on public display in Kingstown prior to the event; and a new venue, the Arnos Vale Playing Field, was used.

The majority of schools in the state participated in the 1976 Championship. The St. Vincent Grammar School (formerly the BGS) won the Male Division and the Girls’ High School (GHS), whose participation began in 1967, took the Female Division.

The 5th edition was characterized by a large crown attendance, and this set the trend for the Inter School Sports event, held annually since then, to emerge as the most popular sporting event on the Schools’ calendar.

The St. Vincent Grammar school has dominated the Male Division, winning 41 of the 48 completed Championships. The St. Martin’s Secondary has won 3 (1983, ’85 and ’97); the Emmanuel High School 2 (1991 and ’99. The Thomas Saunders Secondary School (which opened its doors in 2005) 2 (2010 and 2011).

The Female Division, after initial domination by the GHS, has been more competitive. The GHS has won 19 Championships, the Bishop’s College Kingstown 7, Bethel/Campden Park Secondary School, and the Emmanuel High School Kingstown (EHSK) now the JP Eustace Memorial Secondary School have won 5 each.

Thomas Saunders Secondary and St. Joseph’s Convent Secondary Kingstown have won 4 titles each. The Central Leeward Secondary (formerly the Barrouallie Secondary) and the St. Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua (formerly the Marriaqua Secondary School) have each won a single Championship.

At the time of the cancellation of the 2020 (49th) edition, the pre-finals standings showed that the Central Leeward Secondary School (CLSS) was in 1st position, 14 points ahead of the St. Vincent Grammar School in 2nd position.

Questions abound: Was this going to be the year when the CLSS would win the Male Division for the first time?

Was the CLSS going to achieve the double (winning both the Male and Female Divisions)? Only the EHSK (1991) and TSSS (2011) have achieved this record.

We can speculate but we will never know the answers to these questions! Notwithstanding, we look forward to the 50th edition, hopefully next year, with great anticipation and to be another keenly contested Championship.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020. 23.

Classifieds

MARLENE SAMANTHA WILLIAMS Faith Temple Church Monday, 11th May, 2020 Service: 2:00 p.m.

BASIL BARROW a.k.a. Papa or Bassy Kingstown Methodist Church Monday, 11th May, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery ESMOND ANDREWS

RICHARD SANFORD PHILLIPS

DIANA HUTCHINS

Ebenezer S.D.A Church Bellevue Sunday, 10th May, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Byera Cemetery

Mt. Zion Christian Pilgrim Faith Sion Hill Sunday, 10th May, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Kingstown Cemetery

Streams of Power Church Sans Souci Saturday, 9th May, 2020 Service at 2:00 pm Interment: Sans Souci Cemetery

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FRIDAY MAY

15, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.20

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

VINSA JAMAICA TO FLY ONE CARIBBEAN SEVERAL PARENTS have banded together and have identified an alternative to the much debated US $1,339.29 (EC $3,619.29) airfare, that LIAT had affixed to a one-way flight home from Jamaica, for Vincentian students studying there.

LIAT has also requested a guarantee of fifty passengers and payment for any shortfall.

A letter dated May 11, 2020, signed by 2 concerned parents and sent to the “students studying in Jamaica,” announced the alternative ride home, via One Caribbean, at a reduced cost.

This charter was arranged by concerned parents who, we were told, “only want to bring their children home.” They were able to negotiate a US $364.29 discount on the price offered by LIAT, but the apparent cost savings may not be realized as “some

students would prefer to wait until the end of the month to leave,” the letter noted.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves reported that his government has activated the National Student Loans Company, to respond to students who may not be able to afford the cost of the voyage home, and/or other associated costs, and to those who would need additional monies if they stayed on campus.

Since the deadline given by LIAT to complete arrangements for the proposed May 12 and 14 flights was already expired, students must be willing to pay for their housing costs over the next 2 weeks at least.

According to PM Gonsalves, this COVID-19 economic response targets at least 85 Vincentians who are studying in some 9 countries and have

Vincentian students desirous of returning home from Jamaica will now travel

by One Caribbean. (Photo Source: ANN) subscribed to the National Student Loans Programme.

One Vincentian student in Jamaica, told us, “Well some persons can opt to take a supplementary drawdown or not. This is still the case as some persons plan to do it to fund the One Caribbean flight.”

It is unclear when the switched flights are set to begin, and even as the parents/wards urged their children to adhere to re-entry protocols, they emphasized, “this arrangement has nothing to do with the government and this cannot be subsidized, all payments must be made up front.”

However, PM Gonsalves addressed the issue of arrival dates when he said that the first batch of 30 students was

expected here either on Tuesday or Wednesday of this week.

During recent developments, Opposition Leader Dr. Godwin Friday proposed that the government and/or LIAT subsidize the students’ airfares beyond the purported US $400 per one way ticket that students would have normally paid.

“We gave LIAT $2.7M as part of the COVID relief stimulus package. A regional airline we gave them $2.7M and we can’t find the money to bring our students home? …. That should be used to subsidize the students to come home, it’s the least we can do,” Dr. Friday declared. jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

VINCENTIAN STUDENTS TO REMAIN IN CUBA adversities to the end of the semester, since VINCENTIAN students breaking off could have studying in Cuba are implications for their expected to remain in scholarships. the Spanish- speaking The PM said that he country at least until had spoken with this this semester is country’s Ambassador to complete, and Prime Cuba, Ellsworth John, Minister Dr. Ralph who confirmed that the Gonsalves is of the firm Vincentian students had belief that they should decided to remain in the “stay and bear the pain country until the and suffering,” semester is finished.

Speaking on last According to the Tuesday’s edition of the Prime Minister, the Shake-Up programme Cubans have reopened aired on WE FM, Prime the universities, and Minister Dr. Ralph they are still 50 to 60 Gonsalves said that he days to the end of the believed the Vincentian semester. students studying in “And I think the Cuba should sit out their challenge there, if they

by KENVILLE HORNE

don’t complete this period, they can’t be sure that they will have paid scholarships next year, because if they leave too early, if they leave before the completion of the academic year, they would not have completed all the requisites and, therefore, will have to repeat the year,” said Gonsalves, on the implication for students who might want to return home before the completion of the academic year.

“So, may as well they stay and bear the pain and suffering,” he added.

The Prime Minister admitted that it is a

“difficult situation,” but the Vincentian students are “in it with their Cuban brothers and sisters, and the Chief

Personnel Officer and The majority of other officials are Vincentians studying in compiling what is Cuba are said to be needed to give support to pursuing studies in the students.” medicine and nursing.

Vincentian students in Cuba enjoy an end of year evening hosted by Ambassador Ellsworth John.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.