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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

AUGUST 19, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.33

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

CYBERCRIME BILL CREATES CLASHES

by WILLIAM “KOJAH” ANTHONY

VINCENTIAN CITIZENS and anyone operating in Cyber space for that matter will have to pay attention to the Cyber Crime Bill here. The vote in favour of the new law came from the ruling Unity Labour Party parliamentarians. Even though there was no numerical contest by the opposition New Democratic Party, they were vocal in their objection to clauses of the legislation.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves chided Opposition members for their stance on the matter.

He described the Bill as a “necessary piece of legislation which passes constitutional muster.”

He was “disappointed by the debate offering by the Opposition.”

The Bill’s introduction by the Prime Minister and Finance Minister served as a springboard for the surfacing of differences between the two parties.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves (furthest right) has rebuked the Opposition members for their lack Dr. Gonsalves denied that he brought the Bill “to of support for the Cybercrime Bill. Also pictured are Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker and stifle criticism on the internet.” He recalled that it Attorney General Judith Jones-Morgan (centre). had its first reading May 31, when a Select Committee was appointed. There were no recommendations from the NDP. Gonsalves pointed to the regional nature of the Bill, and that it was based on CARICOM policy positions. He Right: Leader of the reflected on his suffering as a Opposition Arnhim Eustace consequence of his “defence of (furthest left) has voiced the individual rights and freedom.”

by DAYLE DA SILVA “This thing has been tossed to and New Democratic Party’s fro,” Dr. Gonsalves noted, and opinion on the Cybercrime THE CYBERCRIME BILL had Bill, and it is not a favourable contended that “it is a reasonable law a successful passage in the one. Also pictured from left to for what is required to be addressed.”

House last Friday; however He urged the parliament not to right are: Terrance Ollivierre, Leader of the Opposition “manufacture any battles and fights.”

St. Clair Leacock, Daniel Arnhim Eustace, in an Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace Cummings and Nigel official statement Monday, Grenadines would then be taken several steps backwards. responded to a practice of victimisation Stevenson who all had their said that the New “Back to the dark days of colonialist repression; back to which he accused the government of Democratic Party (NDP) has say in rejection of the Bill. the days of failed authoritarianism in the Caribbean; and embarking on from 2001. condemned the action. back to the voicelessness of slavery,” Eustace said.

He noted that a “certain attitude has Eustace read the official statement on Monday’s edition “It is unconceivable that in the second decade in the developed where many just want to of the ‘New Times’ radio programme, saying that the 21st century, an administration that claims to be ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime had passed the progressive; an administration that claims to want to build keep their mouth shut and not get involved in any activities in our Cybercrime Act, and that in order for the Act to become a modern society; an administration that seeks to protect country.” working law and applied and tested in a court of law, it its citizens, is forcing through, in the face of wide- spread The Opposition Leader added: “There first had to be published in the Government Gazette and bipartisan and nonpartisan international opposition, a is a fear in this land, whether we want then assented to by the Governor General. backward, draconian and dangerous law,” he continued. to admit it not.”

But once that process was over, St Vincent and the Continued on Page 3.

Continued on Page 3.

NDP CONDEMNS BILL’S PASSAGE

2. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 3.

News 3

Brewery driver robbed, shot AS OF THURSDAY, no charges had been laid and four persons were assisting police with their investigations Wednesday following the daylight robbery of an employee of the St Vincent Brewery Ltd., which occurred in Petit Bordel.

The incident occurred on Tuesday shortly before 2pm Stern Pope, a driver/salesman

for the company was processing an order, when he was approached by a masked man and relieved of an undisclosed sum of cash before reportedly being shot in the leg.

When contacted on Wednesday, an official at the Brewery said that the amount stolen was still undetermined.

It is the second such incident when an employee of the Brewery was robbed and shot; the previous one took place in the Glen area some time ago.

It is also the second daylight robbery to have occurred in just over a week, following the incident that occurred at the Agriculture

Input Warehouse at Campden Park which was robbed during business hours last week Wednesday.

According to reports, five masked men, armed with two guns and three cutlasses, entered the facility and made off with just over EC$1,100 in cash. (DD)

Cybercrime Bill creates clashes St. Vincent Brewery driver/salesman Stern Pope was robbed and shot in Petit Bordel last Tuesday.

Continued from Front page 3

HE EXPRESSED unwillingness in contributing to the debate, but acknowledged that “I have a duty.”

“I am urging that we take a different approach in regards to these types of matters,” Eustace said.

Parliamentary presentative for East Kingstown from June 1998, Continued from Front page 3 Eustace served as Prime Minister October 2000 to March 28, 2001.

THE LAW HAS BEEN condemned by He took issue with the four reputable international country’s economic growth rate, organizations, the leader of the and asserted that there was opposition said, each stating that nothing to shout about. there were sections of the Bill that He lambasted the government induced fear, and infringed on the for not setting any meaningful constitutional rights and freedoms. example to the youth.

“I would like Vincentians to note He declared that the penalties carefully and understand that such a were “still very high,” and thing has never happened before; at advised that the “schedule should no time have we seen this volume of be re-examined.” condemnation of a law that Eustace outlined that the fines government was about to pass. It is did not deal with “economic an unprecedented intervention by reality,” and went on: “We can’t those organizations that truly see expect people to be comfortable freedom and human rights as basic with these kinds of situations.” human values given by God and He suggested that the enshrined in our constitution,” he government spend more time said.

However, the unprecedented getting bananas exported, and interventions were happening for a also getting more tourists here. reason, he articulated, and that is Eustace pointed to having the because the law is attacking the basic Argyle International Airport freedoms of citizens. functioning. He pondered on And although there were some whether it is going to pay for modifications made to the Bill, itself in the next 50 to 100 years.

Eustace said that they were of no “This (Cybercrime Bill) for me benefit, and that the piece of is not a priority……. important legislation was still faulty and but not priority,” Eustace echoed. backward.

His parliamentary colleagues “What we see from all this, is that expanded on the position in their this regime has stacked the law presentation. Senator Zita against you the population. And with the access it gives to the regime, they Barnwell likened the Bill as creating a “chilling effect on are intending to intrude on your public speech.” She described the lives,” he said. government as having seemingly “This cybercrime act is “entrenched the practice of unacceptable in any modern democratic society, and we in the New victimisation.”

Senator Jules Ferdinand Democratic Party condemn its looked at the Bill as timely, but passage,” Eustace concluded.

NDP condemns Bill’s passage

he ascribed it as having “good, bad, uglier and sweetener”, but that “a little something that is wrong changes the whole thing.”

Godwin Friday, elected representative for the Northern Grenadines, noted the “fear and apprehension” that the Bill distilled.

Terrance Ollivierre, the elected member for the Southern Grenadines, echoed the point as to the arousal of fear.

He was keen on seeing fines lowered.

Nigel Stephenson, (South Leeward) scoffed at the ULP for trying to stamp out Cyber bullying when they were the “principal bullies.” Stephenson was worried about the fines, and wondered if authorities were trying to protect themselves or persons “close to them.”

St. Clair Leacock (Central Kingstown) had a different view from the government side, and he wondered if there was not a tale of two different St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Leacock concluded that the ruling administration had lost the “trust of the people.”

His contribution was not without controversy, and it surfaced with his allegation that the government stole the election.

Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker was not happy, and asked that Leacock withdraw. Leacock complied with Speaker of the House Jomo Thomas’ request.

Thomas was plunged into that type of situation at least two other times during the Cybercrime Bill debate. Senator Deborah Charles faced the same music when confronted by West Kingstown’s Daniel Cummings.

Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Economic Planning, Sustainable Development, Industry, Trade, Information, Technology and Labour, was also forced to comply with Thomas’s call to withdraw after a remark challenged by Cummings.

Deputy Prime Minister Louis Straker dismissed the notion of victimisation that Eustace instigated, and accused the opposition of “trying to engender a climate of fear.”

He contended that the Bill “does not muzzle anyone,” and accused the Opposition of being “genetically predisposed to voting No.” Senator Julian Francis pointed out: “We can’t allow this expansion in technology to go on without control.”

He rejected the NDP’s claim of fear on the land, and indicated “anybody who is fearful about a penalty has intention of breaking the law.”

It was something of a tactical boxing match during the debate, as each side of the House tried to counteract the other.

It served to interest listeners and viewers transmitted by radio and television.

There was the cross talk and attempts to distract the persons making their contribution.

Senator Carlos James lambasted Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace for what he interpreted as an erratic contribution.

“Cybercrime has become a matter of national security,” James indicated. He outlined that freedom of expression carried duties and responsibilities, and asserted that the Cybercrime Bill did not infringe on anyone’s constitutional rights.

Agricultural Minister Saboto Caesar was almost philosophical in his presentation. He agreed that it was Parliament’s role to ensure laws “keep with the times.”

He accused Eustace and Barnwell, the opposition parliamentarians who had spoken until then, of “trifling” the debate on the Cyber Crime Bill.

Caesar noted that it was government’s responsibility to ensure that people were protected. He lamented the absence of opposition members on the Select Committee.

Luke Browne, the Health Minister, also pointed to the importance of persons’ rights and responsibilities.

“We have to have modern laws for modern times and modern crimes,” Browne stressed. The House meets again October 4.

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4. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Traffic cops find shotgun VIGILANT ACTION by police officers from the Traffic Department of the local constabulary, on Tuesday, may have prevented yet another gun-related incident here.

Reports are that around 6 p.m, the traffic officers were doing their regular duties when they intercepted a blue Suzuki Escudo jeep with the registration no R7664 in the Prospect area, travelling in the direction of Kingstown.

A search was conducted, and a 12guage shotgun loaded with two rounds of 12 guage ammunition was found in a bag in the vehicle.

The three occupants of the jeep were reportedly taken into custody and detained for further investigations.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that charges were expected to be laid by yesterday (Thursday).

Death row inmate’s destiny hanging instructing lawyer in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Bacchus-Baptiste told THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, “I am looking forward to a successful appeal. I think we will win this appeal”.

The date for the long awaited hearing was fixed recently, and comes about one year and six months after Lovelace was granted permission to appeal his sentence to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.

On February 26, 2010, Lovelace was sentenced Patrick Lovelace is to death for the murder appealing for removal of 12-year-old female from death row. pannist Lokeisha Nanton of Sion Hill.

Stories by HAYDN A 12-member jury had HUGGINS found him guilty on July THE FATE of this country’s 15, 2009 following a retrial, but sentencing lone death row inmate Patrick Lovelace hangs in had been postponed.

Nanton’s nude body the balance, as he awaits was found hanging from a November 8, 2016 Appeal hearing before the a mango tree in an area Judicial Committee of the at Sion Hill called London Road, on the Privy Council. morning of July 2, 2002.

The former long An autopsy showed distance runner of Belmont is appealing his she was strangled.

In a judgement sentence of death, mainly handed down in March on the basis that it is too 2012, the Eastern excessive in the circumstances, and that Caribbean Court of Appeal dismissed he should have been Lovelace’s Appeal given a term of against conviction, but imprisonment instead.

U.K-based lawyer Shiraz British lawyers Paul Bowen Q.C and Richard Aziz, now High Court Thomas are representing Judge in Grenada, who had conducted Lovelace’s Lovelace at the Privy Appeal, did not appeal Council, while local sentence. attorney Kay BacchusOn January 24, 2014, Baptiste is his Bacchus-Baptiste, then

Woman charged with stealing jewellery Greggs man remanded A WOMAN was released on $6,000 bail on Tuesday when she appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court charged with stealing jewellery.

Shemica Cabral of Glen has been charged with stealing a gold chain valued CD$1,000 and a gold ring valued CD$2,000, the property of Douglas Sam of Kingstown Hill.

Cabral is accused of committing the offence on July 7 this year.

She pleaded not guilty when she stood before Magistrate Bertie Pompey at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The prosecution had no objections to bail, and the matter was adjourned to October 17.

on wounding charge

A RESIDENT of Greggs, charged in connection with a chopping incident in that community last Saturday, August 13, was remanded when he appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

Carlos Drayton was not required to plea to unlawfully and maliciously causing grevious bodily harm to Jason Daniel also of Greggs.

In objecting to bail, Police Court Clerk Constable Shamrock Pierre told Magistrate Bertie Pompey that Daniel was a patient at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital nursing a chop wound to the neck.

Pierre said Daniel underwent surgery on Monday, and is awaiting another surgery to be done later this week.

Pierre added that, based on the victim’s condition, the prosecution is requesting that the accused be remanded for a week so that the court could be provided with a medical report from the doctor.

Pompey transferred the matter to the Serious Offences Court, where a date will be fixed for a Preliminary Inquiry (PI).

Drayton is slated to appear in that Court on September 5, but the issue of bail would be reviewed when the medical report is provided.

Bacchus-Browne, who was subsequently retained in conjunction with the British Law Firm Simons, Murhead and Burton, filed an application before the Appeal Court, for an extension of time to file an appeal against Lovelace’s sentence.

However, in an order dated March 5, 2014, the Appeal Court stated that it did not have the right to extend the time in which to appeal against sentence, in the case of a conviction involving the death penalty.

Lovelace’s lawyers then appealed that order to the Privy Council, and Lovelace was granted permission in early 2015

to appeal his sentence to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.

At the Privy Council hearing, scheduled for November 8, Lovelace’s lawyers at the Council, will have an opportunity to present arguments to show why they think the convicted murderer should be removed from death row, and serve a term of imprisonment instead.

The hearing comes about seven years after the Privy Council had commuted the death penalty of Daniel ‘Compay’ Dick Trimmingham to life imprisonment.

‘Compay’ was convicted and sentenced

to death, December 8, 2004, following a retrial for the murder of elderly livestock farmer Albert ‘Bertie’ Browne who was disemboweled and beheaded in the Carriere Mountains, January 8, 2003.

In a judgement delivered on June 22, 2009, the Privy Council ruled that ‘Compay’s’ crime was not the ‘worst of the worst’, as to warrant the ultimate penalty of death.

‘Compay’ had appealed to the Privy Council after his efforts at the region’s Court of Appeal failed.

Bacchus-Baptiste had also represented ‘Compay’ at his trials and Appeals.

„Withdraw the charges‰, DougieÊs lawyer urges ATTORNEY Kay BacchusBaptiste has issued a call for 12 criminal charges brought against her client Douglas ‘Dougie’ DeFreitas to be withdrawn.

“I am calling on the police and the learned Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to do their job and withdraw these charges because they (charges) are baseless and not in the public’s interest”, Bacchus-Baptiste told THE VINCENTIAN ON Wednesday.

Attorney Kay DeFreitas, proprietor of Douglas DeFreitas Bacchus-Baptiste Nice Radio, who had September 13. appeared at the Kingstown DeFreitas has now been summoned Magistrate’s Court, June 21 on two charges of ‘publishing false statements to appear at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on August 29 in likely to cause fear or alarm or to disturb the public peace’, was recently relation to the ten additional charges.

The charges are laid under Section slapped with ten additional charges of 64(1) of the Criminal Code, Chapter a similar nature.

171 of the revised edition of the Laws The 12 charges are laid in connection with statements DeFreitas of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 2009. reportedly made on Nice Radio on December 10, the morning after the results of the December 9, 2015 general elections were declared.

Bacchus-Baptiste described the charges as “ridiculous”, adding, “it is the bringing of these charges which is likely to cause fear or alarm among the general population.

“Our freedom of speech is under attack”.

When DeFreitas initially appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on the first two charges, by way of summons, presiding Magistrate Bertie Pompey indicated that he would have to recuse himself from the matter, as he is involved in a civil case in which DeFreitas is also involved.

Pompey then transferred the criminal matter to the Calliaqua Magistrate’s Court where DeFreitas is slated to appear on

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 5.

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6. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Famous Five take on hunger FIVE MEN WILL EMBARK on a journey tomorrow, August 20, all in an effort to address the problem of child hunger.

The five — Mark Sardine, Michael DaSilva, Shem DaSilva, Nigel DaSilva and Christell Allicott, will journey, by kayak, across the Bequia channel beginning at Breakers in Prospect, and this is being done for a good cause.

“That cause is when you send your children to school and they are hungry because they don’t get a meal,” Sardine explained.

So the team is anticipating that business entities throughout the country will be inspired by their deed, and come on board to donate a meal to one of these unfortunate students.

“We are asking every business in St Vincent and the Grenadines to choose a school, and on the second Monday of the new school term, go to any institution and donate a meal to those who may need it,” Sardine said.

The idea is the brainchild of Michael DaSilva; however it was decided that Sardine, being the man with the most kayaking experience, will be a part of the team.

“We are doing this for a cause, and it is a good cause — it is hoped that from doing this, other people will also be motivated to want to do something,” Michael said.

According to Sardine, they are not begging: “this must be done.”

“We feel the pain, you were all children once, and if you were hungry while you were in school, then it ought not to be hard to hand over a $20 to support the cause,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. Furthermore, the expedition is being

done to honour all the grandparents who are still providing for their grandchildren, some with very little resources, Sardine said.

“They are the real heroes of our country.”

The team is expected to leave mainland St Vincent at 6 tomorrow morning, and according to Sardine, if all is well and the conditions remain favourable, they just may make L-R: Shem DaSilva, Nigel DaSilva, Mark Sardine, Christell Allicott and Michael DaSilva plan to the kayak from St. Vincent to Bequia in hopes of reducing hunger in St Vincent and the Grenadines. approximately nine-mile trek therefore members of the team say they After all, Sardine has years of back to the mainland. feel very confident that they will be able kayaking experience, and said that he The kayaks, ‘Stinger’, ‘Sparkle’ and to make the journey in the time has journeyed from Villa to ‘Ganzee’ will be guided by a tour boat, sepcified.

Chateubelair and back in just over nine which is being provided, compliments In fact, Nigel DaSilva, one of the five, and a half hours.

Richard Minors and Keith Boyea; and said that the team has been getting But while this may be the last big the vessels are equipped with all the themselves ready, training and, with venture for Sardine, he said that he is safety equipment that they require for the use of technology, have been able to pleased to have the support of some of the sojourn. come up with an almost precise map of the youth, and that the public can look They anticipate that the journey their expedition, including time. forward to bigger things in the future. should be covered in under two and a (DD) And as far as nerves go, the five say half hours. that they remain It was explained that the tide confident that they will changes every two hours in open ocean, achieve what they set out as opposed to meeting a different tide to accomplish. when traveling along the coastline;

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 7.

News

Hairoun Beer to change label THE POPULAR Hairoun Beer brand is expected to change their label soon, and consumers of the product will have the opportunity to decide from four different labels, which one is best.

Last Tuesday, the St. Vincent Brewery Limited, brewers for the popular Hairoun Beer, hosted a press conference to make the announcement. The current label on a Hairoun Beer has not been changed for over 20 years.

Lamont Medica, Trade and Marketing Coordinator, in explaining how the company will go about the changes, said that the consumers are their bosses, so the company felt the need to give them the opportunity to select the new look for the product.

How the process works Consumers will be asked to select a voting card at the

Hairoun Beer designated area at local supermarkets. They will then vote and drop the ballot into the specially marked Hairoun boxes. Also, persons can vote by Liking their favourite label on instragram at Hairoun Beer SVG and on Facebook at Hairoun Beer. “So we just giving the consumers the opportunity to have a voice, to say exactly which should be the new label for Hairoun Beer,” said Medica.

The label with the most votes will be selected to replace the current one, and the persons who voted for the winning label will also receive prizes.

Customers can also Vote and win prizes at Hairoun Beer special trade

Prospect resident wins US$1,000 from Digicel SVG VINCENTIANS are continuing to benefit from the thousands of dollars in cash and prizes up for grabs, as Digicel SVG continues to bring the beat this summer. Tuesday, August 16th saw Prospect resident Nicolas Boyea being presented with a cheque Nicolas Boyea receiving his valued at US cheque from Digicel’s PR 1,000.00, after Executive Jamisha Wright. being identified the winner of the Digicel SUPER3X Promotion.

The campaign, which ran from Friday, July 29th thru Sunday, July 31st, was a one off online initiative geared at not only rewarding Digicel customers, but was also designed to encourage persons to utilize the convenient option of toppingup their phones online.

The promotion saw all customers who topped up $55.00 or more receiving triple credit; additionally, customers who entered the code SUPER3X were entered into a draw for a chance to win a cash prize of US 1000 dollars.

Digicel’s High Value Customer Manager Brenda Barbour Charles congratulated Boyea on his winnings, and explained that Digicel will continue to give its customers the best value for money, and will also continue to explore creative ways to give back to all of its customers.

Meanwhile, Boyea thanked Digicel for rewarding its customers in such a big way, explaining that the cash came in at a very convenient time. He encouraged Digicel customers to participate in as many promotions as they can, adding that the benefits to be had are tremendous.

events for the label change campaign .The campaign will run for 2 weeks, ending on the 2nd September; but to be eligible to vote, one must be 18 years and over.

For further information, contact Kelvin Franklyn, marketing coordinator. (KH)

L-R: Kelvin Franklyn and Trade and Marketing Coordinator, Lamont Medica.

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8. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 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 Delays on airport completion have curbed enthusiasm THERE IS A GROWING SENSE that the delays encountered in the completion of the Argyle International Airport have in some way curbed the great enthusiasm which the launch of the project generated. Not that there is no longer overwhelming support for the initiative, both at home and in the diaspora, for it still remains dear to the hearts and minds of most Vincentians; but it is only natural that, with the passage of time and changing completion times, there would be an erosion in the level of public enthusiasm.

Hopes were high that by now, Vincentians would have had much improved air access through our own international airport. These were fuelled by constant public utterances by government and airport officials.

No doubt, some of these were occasioned by the need to combat negative propaganda on the part of unpatriotic and misguided persons who could not distinguish between national interests and narrow political or partisan ones.

However, the effect of all these was to imbue in Vincentians the confidence that the airport would have been in operation long before the present time.

This was so much so, that there are Vincentians, both here and abroad, who were convinced that after all the delays, the official opening of the airport would have taken place before the last general elections were held.

After that did not materialize, expectations were revised to Carnival 2016. Now, mum is the name of the game.

It has caused a good deal of frustration, especially given the experience that travellers to and from St Vincent had to endure during the June/July period, the high point for Carnival and vacation travel. These merely underlined the pressing need for alternative air access to ease the unholy reliance on LIAT and to avoid unpleasant in transit stays in neighbouring countries.

In spite of all of this, the faith of most Vincentians in the airport project did not wane. They took the not-sosubtle change from “soon come” to “will come”, with fortitude, reasoning that delays are to be expected in any project of this magnitude. But the patience exhibited is beginning to fray as plausible explanations are not so forthcoming now, and officials are tight-lipped about opening and operational dates.

Questions are beginning to be raised as to whether the government is truly levelling with citizens, and whether we are getting a true picture

of the actual state of affairs. Of course, the impressive physical works speak for themselves, and it is indeed a source of national pride that we have been able to accomplish all of this.

One must remember that this remarkable feat of resource mobilisation and engineering has been carried out in the midst of the worst global economic crisis since the thirties, at great cost and sacrifice to a tiny nation like ours.

Now that the airport is obviously nearing completion, other related nagging concerns are surfacing. One relates to the management and operation of the airport. Some years ago, Prime Minister Gonsalves had raised the probability of a publicprivate partnership model, with the actual operation of the airport being outsourced to a private company with experience in such undertakings. This was generally welcomed, both on account of the lack of local expertise in this area as well as the need to avoid unnecessary government meddling in such a sensitive operation.

There is insufficient clarity on this vital aspect of the airport’s operations, the precise model to be employed, and whether government has changed its mind after once suggesting that discussions were being held with a company or companies in Asia on this aspect. The proper and efficient management of the airport is too important for us not to get it right, after all the sacrifices made and its vital importance in our economic development.

Another worrying aspect is the apparent failure on the part of the private sector to make appropriate investments so that it, and the country can benefit from the operations of the Argyle airport. It is one thing to criticize government for the delays; but where are the signs of investments, particularly in the hospitality sector to take advantage of any opportunities accruing from the airport’s operations? Where are the investments in agriculture, agroprocessing and fishing, all areas which can get a lift-off from the Argyle facility?

In the long run, Argyle is a national undertaking which can either sink us, if not handled properly, or help us to lift off on the road to modernisation and prosperity. It is imperative that we get it right, that there is transparency on the part of government, and willingness on the part of the private sector to play its part. We must swim together on it.

Van- Driver, she’ll take it here YOU JUST CANNOT PLEASE everybody. Instead of praise, “Bloze” rained on me for failing to mention a number of van names, which space did not permit.

And judging from the reckless way in which the newcomers drive with the tearaway of a “Silver Arrow”, it must be obvious that they are itching to see themselves in “Black and White”, one way or another.

In vain I tried to explain that I was practising “Economy”. But people seldom display understanding and “Vision”. “Remarks” were thrown at me, and at one time, I was virtually held “Hostage”. Some went so far as to suggest that I was seeking “Fame”, for merely doing job with “Honesty”.

Quite a few accused me of applying “Different Strokes” in my “Enterprise,” by dealing only with the so-called “Elite”, the supposedly “TopRanking”. The “General” feeling was that I should stop flying high like a “Falcon” and seize the “Opportunity” to “Touch Down”.

Let me at once admit that some of the critics have reason to complain. I cannot myself understand how on earth I could have trotted out so many musical names and not say a word about the “Dee Jay” and, the “Piper” of music. “Hotspot”, one of our best music programmes on “Radio 705,” escaped my notice , as did the band “Asterick” which is a real “Thriller” these days.

Some of the old family names persist. The “Brother B’s” continue to grow; “Colours Return,” and there is now “Bigger Crucial”. “Crease” has come on stream running in the track of “Crease Lightning,” which featured last time without “Thunder” which normally follows her.

Similarly, it stands to reason that twins-“Gemini” would travel together, yet I had recommended passengers to go in “Going Easy,” forgetting to suggest that they return in “Easy Going” ! Apologies are also due to “AnJo” for mentioning only “Joe-Ann”.

And to think how well-meaning my plan had been. My aim was to keep away men like “Rocky” who is “The Hardest”. “Kristo” who can “Stand Tall” in any “Uprising”, and “Z ippy J” who is known for his “Harder Touch” from molesting the likes of “Belle Vue Beauty”, sweet “Candy N” and especially the shy “Clite”. “Ball Head”, that “Young Blood” who delights in “Hard Play” had also to be kept a distance from the alluring “Black Joy” and the charming “Ayana” , both of whom sport shapes like figures “88”, and suggest that the gift of “Topaz” would be in order.

Indeed, if I could, I would protect many of the fellows from themselves, particulars the fun- loving guys led by “Ral-E”, “Patrick”, “Nick-O” and “Stand O” who just like to “Live Up”.

This four-some burn their candles at both ends, “48 Hours” non-stop. When they go on the “Night-Beat,” they invariably end up having to seek “Refuge” with the “Night Nurse” or “Sister Greets”.

Facing the Music

Yes, there is “Little Love” in MiniBus affairs nowadays, side by side with the riotous living that leads to so many accidents and casualties, and the “Rat Race” which nobody wins, there has sprung up of late a budding religions strife lacking in “Love and “Concorde”. Vying for “Power” and “Pride” of place are Rastaman “I Van”.

“Chang” the Chinese, the “Spot Less” Muslin “Abdullah “and the “Boodah” himself, all hopelessly caught up in this no-win situation.

When all is said and done, however, I would hate to be remembered as “The Upsetter” who struck “Man Ice Cold” with a column that was prepared to call a van a van , and not a ”Micro-Bus” or “Maxi Taxi”.

I would prefer that we join “Mr Positive” in looking at the brighter side.

In a sense, we are “Special”, and we now have “Layou Special” as well as “Hairoun Special”, in keeping with our Heritage. That takes us back to Vanity “Roots”. Moreover, educationally, vans Several men were outraged at having been left out, though no slight have moved away from Dan I the man was intended. “Zarrack”, “Rus”, “Billy” in the van. Having begun with “ABC,” and Braid-E”, Trevor”, “Bobby”, we are cruising on now to “CXE.” “Randy” and “Nolly”, all accosted me Altogether, this Van Business is about the matter. On the other hand, pure “Theatre”. And “That’s Me” in the girls such as “MaryJ”, “Annie B”, print for 1984. Meanwhile “Goodwill” and “Jackie J” were as “Polite” as and “Peace and Love” this Christmas ever, saying that they were prepared season, and “Prosperity” for the New to wait in their own words — “My Year.

Turn”. “Why Worry” they added; As they say in “North” England, woman as well as “Man Must Live”.

“Tata”!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 9.

Letters

This country needs rational thinking ATTACHMENT to, or obsessive commitment to, any particular viewpoint can become a central cause of a nation’s suffering. It is necessary to refute what is misleading, and to reveal what is correct. This principle was espoused 1400 years ago by Jizang (Chi-Tsang).

Was he talking about Donald Trump or Ralph

Gonsalves? Was he thinking about the current U.S. Republican Party and/or Trump supporters, or was he directing his advice to St. Vincent’s ULP/Gonsalves supporters?

The advice and admonition is the same, however applied. Rabid, unthinking, emotional support is misguided. We all need to think clearly

and independent of party or personality. This country, your country, needs to be guided by rational thinking, the errors and missteps of its Government exposed, and those accountable held responsible. Any electorate needs to recognize, and must be willing to speak up and reveal and broadcast the lies, mistruths, and

Thoughts on the Cybercrime Act ACCORDING to the wording of the recently passed “cyber-crime” act, it criminalizes the publishing or communicating of anything on the Internet that causes fear, distress or is a detriment to the emotional well-being of another person. This act is now published, in full, on the Internet. Does that mean I can press charges against the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for inducing fear and distress in me, and is a detriment to my emotional well-being?

The Government for sure has made me more fearful and distressed,

and my emotional wellbeing has certainly been diminished.

As of right now (Monday, August 15th), I do not know if the Governor General has signed the bill, as I believe he is supposed to, or if it has been Gazetted, so technically it may not be law yet.

Governor Generals in the past, in other countries, have refused to sign bills that they believed were not in the best interest of the citizenry, or were in conflict with their duties as the Queen’s Representative, which they are sworn to uphold. I wonder if there is within our current

Governor General, the courage or integrity to so act in this instance. I am not inciting sedition, just asking a rhetorical question.

HJA

We Caribbean Gold, oil, Kaiter Falls, sands, sun, and sea I am tourism, agriculture, bauxite and industry Brass, string, steelband and bamboo melody Mixture of colour, culture, dishes, welcome to me!

Tropical islands surrounded by blue Caribbean Sea Flat Bahamas and Barbados, but Dominica is craggy We speak French, English, Spanish, Dutch and Patois See our hot springs, caves, as the ‘clear blue hold’ of the Bahamas We had Tom Adams, a great leader; now runs Shelly-Ann Fraser —Pryce Jennifer Hosten, Miss World, and Kirani James has medalled twice Derek Walcott wrote from St. Lucia, Slinger Francisco could really sing But spouge, reggae or cadence, Sir Frankie Mc can play anything Chalk sound lagoon of Turks and Caicos, ‘Camaguey City’, of Cuba is unique Petit St. Vincent, a haven for any, if it’s tranquility they seek,

Twenty-eight island nations, excelling in sports, business and entertainment And el Moro Fortress in Puerto Rico still stands as do democratic governments We have a weakness of bat, ball and party Cricketers use this to bring us together Be it in barber shop, radio, stadium, cellular or TV Thrice in one year, the world felt our power I never knew that fishes would fly Til bajan Carlos Brathwaithe hit four sixes in the sky While a feather from the hummingbird Went cosmic: the Champion sound was heard He who sets up and takes down has a plan; ‘I will give glory to the Caribbean’ Now reign from the land of wood and water Usain Bolt, there is no man faster.

David Nedd

wrongdoings of its Government, and as well put forward correctives.

To do any less is to abandon your soul, and the future of your children.

Inaction is sedition.

“Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act”, (Dietrich Bonhoeffer). “You can’t

do anything about the length of your life, but you can do something about its width and depth,” (Henry Mencken). Have we all abandoned our moral integrity and willingness to stand up and speak out against what we know is corruption and duplicity?

Unquestionably, the cost of doing so has risen recently with the passage

of the “cyber-bullying” bill. So who now among us is willing to pay the price to assert our rights? “The most dangerous man to any government is the man who is able to think things out for himself…” again, Henry Mencken.

Criticism is not criminality. Courage!

XUNZI

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10. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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The House of Assembly passes the 2016 Cybercrime Bill Introduction AFTER ALMOST TWO DAYS of debate, some of it heated, some of it irrelevant, some of it downright nasty, some of it professional and factual, the House of Assembly passed the 2016 Cybercrime Bill, without the support of the members of the Opposition. After this exercise, many Vincentians were heard to say that they now had a fuller and better understanding of the Bill, and generally speaking, supported the provisions of the Bill. It will now go before the Governor General, Sir Frederick Ballantyne, for his assent, and then it will become law.

The truth of the matter is that the NDP opposed the Cybercrime Bill, because of the need to protect their supporters, particularly those in the Diaspora who used the cyber world, to defame and say all sorts of nastiness and lies, about the country, and the ULP administration.

Their principal weapon has been face book. They operate from groups called “the movement” and “the war room”; spewing hate and vile comments about the country, people in the ULP administration, and anyone who supports the work of the government. They hide behind the maxim of “free speech,” believing that it is their right to defame people on face book, while at the same time using language that threatens people, even calling for their deaths. This is why the NDP as a political party, opposed the Cybercrime Bill, so that their supporters could continue their attacks with impunity.

protest, for something he admitted, that he had no interest in. So, why call out your thirty-something supporters for something that did not matter to you and your party? Why waste the time of your supporters?

By comparison, the presentations of the members of the government side, was exemplary. Camillo Gonsalves, Julian Francis, Carlos James, and Saboto Caesar among others, were all on point, providing support for Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves who presented the Bill. Of pleasant surprise to most, was the presentation made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir Loius Straker, who displayed an understanding of the activities in cyber space. In fact, it was Sir Louis who coined the phrase, “genetically pre-disposed”, to describe the actions of the NDP, who opposed everything done by the ULP administration.

The next steps

Now that the Bill has been passed, and before it is signed by the Governor General to become law, a number of preparatory steps will have to be adopted, particularly within the police force and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Personnel within these departments will have to become more proficient with matters related to cyber crime, so that they are in a position to The Cybercrime Bill debate investigate any activity which infringes the law.

It was truly a brilliant strategy A certain amount of education will adopted by the ULP administration, be required by persons in the media, to provide students in the country with laptops. This was perhaps a huge to continue to provide more information to Vincentians about obstacle to the NDP in their bid to aspects of cyber crime, particularly provide lies and half-truths to the cyber bullying, the illegal acquisition people of St. Vincent and the of data, identity theft, child Grenadines. These students are able pornography and computer related to research the World Wide Web, to fraud. ascertain the truth and the facts put There was a great deal of interest forward by the NDP, and were able to in the Cybercrime Bill. Since its first ascertain the truth.

So for example, these young people reading on 31st May 2016, the Select Committee of the House of Assembly, were in a position to tell their peers has met several times to discuss the and elders the truth about cyber Bill, and a number of individuals and crime legislation worldwide, and to compare these with the Bill that was organisations have made debated in parliament on August 11th presentations to the select committee.

Interestingly, an organisation 2016. Clearly the NDP should have realised this. Their debate on the bill responsible for the education of the children of our nation, the Teachers was shallow, poorly researched and Union, never made any presentation poorly presented. before the Select Committee.

First of all, their point person on the debate, Senator Zita Barnwell, Conclusion could find no traction with the audience, and there was a general The NDP, by its own admission, feeling of disappointment with her recognises that there is need to presentation. In fact, she could not use up all her allotted time to debate control activities on cyber space, the Bill, clearly running out of content particularly to protect our citizens. and information. But at least she was Their problem is how to protect their supporters, especially those in the better than her political leader, Diaspora, who want continued licence Arnhim Eustace. The NDP leader could find nothing sensible to debate, and freedom to abuse and defame and resorted instead to talk about his Vincentians, particularly those who wife, claiming that she was victimised support the programmes and when she was dismissed from the St. activities of the ULP administration.

Expect the opposition NDP to Vincent and the Grenadines continue to “bad mouth” the Bill, but Electricity Services, back in 2003. the majority of Vincentians will The amazing part of his debate continue to support the principle of presentation was his admission that the Cybercrime Bill, because they he was not interested in the Cybercrime Bill. So for all intent and know it’s a protective umbrella for themselves and their children. purposes, Arnhim Eustace called out his supporters to come out and

Cybercrime Act —- Backward and Repressive (Statement by the Honourable Arnhim Eustace on the passage of the Cybercrime Act) “ON FRIDAY 12TH AUGUST 2016, the ruling ULP regime in this country passed a piece of legislation called the Cybercrime Act 2016. In order for the act to become a working law that can be applied and tested in the court of law, it must be published in the Government Gazette and assented to by the Governor General.

If that process is completed, the Ralph Gonsalves regime will have succeeded in taking St Vincent and the Grenadines several steps backward: back to the dark days of colonialist repression; back to the days of failed authoritarianism in the Caribbean; back to the voicelessness of slavery.

It is inconceivable that in the second decade of the 21st century, an administration that claims to be progressive; an administration that claims to be interested in creating a modern society; an administration that claims to seek to protect its citizens, is forcing through — in the face of widespread, bipartisan and nonpartisan international opposition — a backward, archaic, draconian and dangerous law; a law that is riddled with practical and philosophical inconsistencies and discrepancies; a law that induces fear in the populace; a law that infringes upon, and indeed, damages, constitutional rights and freedoms.

Condemnation of this law has come from far and wide. Four reputable international organisations have written about this law, urging the government not to pass it. Reporters Without Borders called parts of the bill “extremely damaging”. The Canadianbased Centre for Law and Democracy says the government was “rushing ahead with seriously problematical legislation” which might punish “perfectly innocent browsing activity”.

And the International Press Institute said that the law opens “a back door to silencing unwanted opinions or punishing journalistic work that makes… politicians, uncomfortable.”

I would like Vincentians to note carefully, and understand that such a thing has never happened before in the history of St Vincent and the Grenadines. At no time have we ever seen this level and volume of international condemnation of a law that a government of this country was about to pass. It is an unprecedented intervention by those parties and agencies who truly seek freedom and human rights as basic human values, given by God and enshrined in our constitution.

But these unprecedented interventions are happening for a simple reason — it is because the law itself is an unprecedented attack on the basic freedoms of citizens in this day and age; an attack by an illegitimate regime, that simply seeks to protect itself from criticism, prevent revelation and scrutiny of its actions so as to continue to rule with impunity — and without accountability.

In the face of these unprecedented condemnations, the bill was slightly modified before its final reading, but the modifications were of no fundamental benefit. The cybercrime act, as passed, is still a dangerous, backward and faulty piece of legislation; a law that is repressive, and explicitly intended by a spiteful and vindictive regime, to inflict harm on citizens of this country; a law that would protect and keep a ruling elite, a select few, from being exposed and held accountable, should they break other laws.

Is it any wonder, therefore, that the Gonsalves regime has failed for the past fifteen years to bring Integrity Legislation to Parliament? Or that the Freedom of Information Act 2003 still has not been brought into force, 13 years later? The absence of each is a blindfold over the eyes of the citizens. Is it any surprise that in 2011 this regime amended the Criminal Procedure Code so that citizens can no longer bring private criminal prosecutions, unless they have the permission of the DPP? What we see from all of this, is that this regime has steadily and systematically stacked the weight of the law against you, the citizens of this country. And with the passage of this Cybercrime Act, with the unprecedented access it gives the regime to your cell phones, your devices and your computers, the regime’s ability to intrude on your lives, goes from constitutional, measured and reasonable to invasive, unconstitutional and dangerous.

This Cybercrime Act is unacceptable in any modern democratic society, and we in the New Democratic Party unequivocally condemn its passage.

What is the price of the fundamental rights and freedoms of a people? What assault on our selves; on our nation and on our God-given rights becomes too much to bear? When do we say: enough — no more!?

These are not rhetorical questions; neither are they questions posed to the NDP supporters among us. These are questions that you, the citizens of this once-free country must consider in your private moments, in your deepest thoughts about the future and what it holds for you and for this nation. And if you, the citizens, want a free, fair and prosperous country for your children and grandchildren, you will join with those of us who seek freedom; with those of us who seek fairness; with those of us who seek justice — and you will say: Enough. This is also my country. This blessed land does not belong to a chosen few. It belongs to us all.”

Regional and International organizations condemn the Cybercrime Act The following organizations have condemned the Cybercrime Act: Association of Caribbean Media Workers, Committee to Protect Journalists, International Press Institute, Reporters Without Borders, Canadian Journalists for Free Expression, Center for Independent, Journalism - Romania, Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility, Electronic Frontier Foundation, Freedom Forum, Fundamedios - Andean Foundation for Media Observation and Study, Human Rights Network for Journalists Uganda, Independent Journalism Center - Moldova, Index on Censorship, Institute for the Studies on Free Flow of Information, Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, Media Rights Agenda, Media Watch, Pacific Freedom Forum, Pacific Islands News Association ,Pakistan Press Foundation,Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms MADA, PEN American Center, PEN Canada, PEN International and Vigilance pour la Démocratie et l’État Civique.

Therefore, the NDP’s position is vindicated; the Act is punitive, it is unjust, it is a repressive piece of legislation.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 11.

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From meaningless to meaningful

“I would rather die a meaningful death than live a meaningless life.”— Corazon Aquino (1933-2009) – 11th President of the Philippines MANY OF LIFE’S TRAGEDIES can easily result in individuals categorizing themselves as “meaningless”. For example, a diabetic who loses his vision, kidney functions, or a limb, could so easily (and incorrectly) conclude that life has lost its meaning – not appreciating the significance of the setbacks. In addition, we sometimes speedily discard individuals and/or items that at first glance appear to be defective – we unwisely see them as meaningless.

There are so many examples that appear to jump out at us to prove the truism of this statement. Take the example of Nicholas James “Nick” Vujicic who was born without any arms or legs. This Australian national Christian evangelist and motivational speaker is a wellsought-after presenter at conferences around the world. Many would have erroneously concluded that someone who is born without arms and legs would be doomed to be a burden on society – never ever being able to provide for himself. However, Nicholas’ exceptional positive attitude and persistence proved that life could be meaningful, even if it commences with situations that seem to be meaningless.

Nick was born with a very rare disorder called Phocomelia.

Understandably, he struggled physically, emotionally, and mentally as a child. However, as he grew, he was able to find meaning in and for life. Who would have thought that an individual without legs and arms could ever get married? Who would have imagined such an individual having children? Many would have considered it meaningless for him to attempt to have a “normal” family life.

However, he converted this “meaningless experience” and has made it meaningful. He has embraced the biblical statement that we are all fearfully and wonderfully made — even with our defects and shortcomings.

There are many times in our lives when we wrongly conclude that life has dealt us a bad hand. We may cower into self-pity and can even wish that we were never born or that our death could be hastened. Feelings of dissatisfaction may arise when we consider some of our deformities and limitations. On other occasions, we may even become dissatisfied and disgruntled as a result of the size and shape of our noses or lips, the colour of our skin, where we were born, and so on. However, we can gain inspiration from the Nicks of this world; individuals who are challenged with major physical, mental, or emotional defects, but developed the discipline and determination to overcome them.

They inspire us! They challenge us to exert greater effort and energy to improve aspects of our lives, and to be in a better position to contribute to society. Even with our defects, we still have so many talents and abilities that can add value to others and to society.

We are grateful to those individuals that contribute their time, talent, and money to assist those individuals who are considered to be “differently abled” (as opposed to “disabled”). Several decades ago, infants who were

identified as having physical or mental challenges, would have been abandoned, “locked away”, and hidden from sight. Many would never dream of entering a formal education system.

However, we are pleased that such an approach has basically been discontinued. The parents of children who are born with physical challenges, now realise that there are numerous opportunities for their children to learn and to secure gainful employment. We are encouraged by the business places that, as a policy, employ some of these talented and differently abled individuals. Some have been employed as hair dressers and barbers. Others work as graphic designers or baggers at the supermarket checkout stations. They may not be able to hear, and their coworkers may not know sign language, but they do get by and develop a sense of pride and dignity as they generate income. These differently challenged individuals would have previously been condemned to a meaningless existence. Today, they make meaningful contributions to society.

Sometimes, life will hit us hard on the blind side. Accidents happen.

Friends abandon and betray. The economy shrinks. Retrenchments emerge at the workplace. Eviction notices appear as a result of delinquent mortgage payments. There are a host of tragedies that occur that beckon us to devalue ourselves or incorrectly conclude that we have lost meaning — that we are meaningless.

However, when we pause long enough to objectively reflect on or analyse the situation, we readily discover that the emerging challenges are pregnant with meaning. They teach valuable lessons.

We can, for example, learn what it means to endure — to survive against great odds. Regardless of the losses and setbacks, life is still beautiful. It is still worth living. Life is meaningful even when situations tempt us to consider circumstances to be meaningless.

We do not always see the value of challenging circumstances that surround or engulf us. We can so willingly and easily devalue life’s circumstances, categorizing them as meaningless, when they are most valuable and quite meaningful. There are also times when we observe others sinking into depression and cynicism because they do not understand or appreciate a particular challenge that they may be facing. We can play a major role in assisting these “wayward pilgrims” in converting their meaningless circumstances to meaningful experiences. Roy T. Bennett challenges us to “Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.” We can play a major role and be a significant catalyst in shifting someone’s perspective from meaningless to meaningful - enriching their life and our own.

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

Cable companies and Belize THIS IS A TELECOMMUNICATIONS alert.

It amounts to a warning to all of us who have not been paying attention to our telephone bill or the credit on your phone. Something is going on that is not right. The telecommunications companies are engaging in activities that call for a serious investigation. The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRC) and Information Minister Camillo Gonsalves need to put their ears to the ground, hear the cry of the poor and not so poor, and try to remedy what is clearly a very bad situation.

Ever since I returned to SVG in 2004, I have been with Digicel. I have paid thousands of dollars in fees and charges to that company and, as a post-paid customer, I am highly dissatisfied with what passes for service. Too often I have had to go to the head office with inquiries. All too often, I have gotten the run- around.

Firstly, the billing cycle is a clearly worked out, psychologically studied ploy, to disallow people from paying attention to their bills. Why does the cycle run to the 2nd of each month rather than at month’s end? I have always paid my total bill. Never had a balance, yet I will return to the office to find out that there is a balance from some earlier month. I am not alone; many others share the same plight. It may take a class action lawsuit to get these companies to correct their ways.

When I travel, I will turn off the roaming and data, only to be charged for roaming and data usage. Recently, a Digicel official informed me that I am being charged when I make or receive a WhatsApp call. Recently, I sat with a senior executive and changed my plan because I was using less than 40 percent of the 1000 minutes for which I contracted. Lo and behold when I checked the company, the plan was not changed and my bill was more than $300 over the plan that I agreed on. Moreover, after not going over 1000 minutes for close to a year, I was now told that I had used more than 8 hours and 45 minutes in phone calls, and this is what was responsible for driving my plan over.

Now I know this is BS. I rarely use the phone, and invariable spend an average of 5 minutes on the phone. I limit phone use mainly for health reasons, so as to avoid the heat and radiation that come with phone use.

Moreover, the availability of what’s App makes it less likely that one will use their minutes, especially with the proliferation of Wi-Fi hot spots across the island.

Another issue of complaint is why is there roaming fees across the Caribbean which is increasingly emerging as one economic space?

Why is internet service frequently non-existent or on go slow? Why is the 4G service advertised to customers, and for which they pay more so ever problematic?

Pre-paid customers to these companies are in no better position.

The most frequent complaint in that persons would buy a bundle of credit, only to have it disappear in short order. Credit is SVG is very expensive when compared with some of the other islands in our region. Yet we are being strangled.

These companies make a huge profit. A few years ago, someone in

the know revealed to me that Digicel was making as much as $4million per month on the sale of phone cards alone. Clearly, the business is evolving, but lots of users continue to buy phone credit on the streets.

However, vendors are making a few pennies on the dollar while the companies laugh all the way to the bank.

This cannot be right. It amounts to a drain on the slender resources of our people and nation by two multinational companies. It is now long past time for Information Minister Camillo Gonsalves and Apollo Knight of the NTRC to investigate the complaints and take the necessary remedial action, even if it means bringing to bear the full force of the law. Citizens must not carry this fight alone.

Belize and the rest of us In a landmark decision that must have been heard across the Caribbean, the Belizean Court of Appeal declared that what the two consenting men do in the privacy of their bedroom must be of no concern to the country’s law.

In effect, it found a section of the country’s criminal code to be unconstitutional because it criminalized intercourse between consenting homosexual adults. The section of the law that was found offensive by the court called for a sentence of up to 10 years once the accused was found guilty of having ‘carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any person or animal.’

Justice Benjamin held that the law contravened the human rights granted under the Belizean constitution, found that the offensive section of the law contributed to prejudice and lends itself to the stigma that all homosexuals should be treated like criminals and therefore offends their right to human dignity.

The Court also held that the removal of this bar to homosexual activity will aid the fight against AIDS among men who have sex with men but refuse to participate in testing and treatment programmes because they are stigmatized.

This decision is analogous to the shot heard around the world. The elation among gays and lesbians is certainly palpable. On the opposite end of the spectrum, religious bodies and other morality defenders would frown on this decision.

We can be sure that there will soon be a case in our OECS that will test the judicial acumen of our Court.

In law, the decision appears right. It will be a stretch to deny people their right to freely engage in sexual conduct as consenting adults in the privacy of their own homes. I have studied this issue sufficiently to be convinced that choice is remotely a factor in same sex romance. Biology seems to be the decisive and determining factor.

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

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12. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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ULP regime stabbing Ivan O’Neal University in the back

Today, Singapore is a World Bank success story.

The Honourable Ivan O’Neal will THE LEADER of SVG Green Party, Mr Ivan Grenadines. However, research has Belle Isle. Shame on the ULP regime build and incorporate this historic O’Neal, has a BSc (hons) in Accounting shown that there are over 20 leadership! university to stimulate a high quality and Finance from Oxford Brookes companies / organisations in SVG that The university will be built at of life for Vincentians and sustainable University, England; an MSc in Macro use ‘St Vincent and the Grenadines’ in Harmony Hall, East St. George, St. Economics, Policy and Planning from their name.

Vincent. It will not be difficult to build socio-economic development in SVG. A Bradford University, England, and an The argument that the name and to operate. It will offer degrees in university would significantly benefit the SVG economy and help children MBA from Leicester University, England. ‘University of St Vincent and the Accounting and Finance, Civil climb out of poverty, by giving them In addition, Mr Ivan O’Neal has worked in Grenadines’ suggests a connection Engineering, Computer Science, Singapore, and is knowledgeable about with the Crown or the Government of Mathematics, Nursing, and provide an the education and the skills to get the transformation made in Singapore St. Vincent and the Grenadines clearly important school of Navigation to build highly paid jobs anywhere in the world. since 1965 through education. has no foundation. It is just because of a professional source of expertise to Mr Ivan O’Neal is a patriotic Mr Ivan O’Neal knows the value of wickedness and spitefulness that the manage our multi-billion dollar fish Vincentian.

He will fight on to bring a university education, and believes ULP regime wants to stop the industry in the Atlantic Ocean.

SVG a university for Vincentian the United Kingdom’s exit from the university from being built, to deny The “University of St Vincent and European Union offers a golden the children of SVG the opportunity of the Grenadines Inc.” will partner with children. The “University of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Inc.” will opportunity for this country to build a a university education. universities in Singapore and the UK, be built. substantial university education The ULP regime is condemning and be modelled on Singapore’s industry, creating thousands of new SVG’s children to a life of poverty. The Nanyang Technological University, SVG Green Party jobs, a high yield in revenue, and more hopeless ULP regime talk about which caused the rapid development of www.svggreenparty.org crucially human resource development hunger reduction in SVG; but education in Singapore since 1965.

Find us of Facebook and Twitter to drive prosperity in SVG. Vincentians can be seen on a daily The university will be called the basis eating from garbage bins in ‘University of St Vincent and the Kingstown. They want to deny SVG’s Grenadines Inc’. This name was children the opportunity of free officially approved by the ULP regime, scholarships for university in their but subsequently revoked by the country of birth. The days of begging spiteful ULP regime. for a scholarship to go to a university The ULP regime claims that the in Taiwan will be history. name “University of St Vincent and The ULP regime has been in power him?

IT WAS VERY SAD for St. Vincent the Grenadines INC” suggests a for 15 years, and their education Some wonder whether the and the Grenadines that just about connection with the Crown or the revolution for the children of SVG is energetic defence of the legality of the time some citizens were Government of St. Vincent and the not a university, but a new jail in expressing concern, that there needed Ames’ departure by Dr. Gonsalves to be some serious attention given to was prompted by some sense of our Police Department with a view to connectivity and harmony of spirit; for indeed it has been documented, arresting the obvious decline in the that similar to the way that Ames quality of service of that important had withheld monies deducted from body, there appeared in the the wages of employees of Buccuma newspapers reports, that a son of a Resorts, and not paid them to the respected officer of yesteryear, had NIS, monies had for some time been been identified, as an active player deducted from the wages of public associated with a notorious felon, an servants, but had not been paid in to expatriate, who had defrauded our the NIS. country of millions of dollars.

It was a most unfortunate Seeing the face of that son who had distinguished himself in his field, and exposition by Dr. Gonsalves; the clumsy defense of the stealthy who had been held to be a person on departure of Mr. Ames, served merely whom the country could have to increase the suspicions, that Mr. depended to carry our cause with Ames had had the assistance and honour; but there he was disgracefully linked to the mischief of support from well-placed persons.

And this/these “Ames’ Games” a rogue, who had apparently been a person of interest to the British Police coming so close to the Ann Joshua Cobble Stone Inn manoeuvres, has Department! That was sad indeed! further tarnished the image of Dr. But worse than that was to come, Gonsalves, and has exposed him as for within the week, it was reported, not being a reliable source of the that our Prime Minister was saying truth, whose impetus for action, that Mr. Ames, the felon referred to seems to come from a juvenile spirit above, had left the country of revenge. One cannot help recalling “legitimately”. The facts as reported are, that David Ames, former CEO of his “coconut in the teeth” story: These the much lauded “Buccama Resorts”, recent issues may well be valuable in had been summoned to or was to have the appreciation of the dynamics been summoned to appear in Court to which have resulted in the answer charges of theft of substantial neutralizing of the Bigger Bigs sums of money. It was reported, that Establishment.

The question for discussion, is before the law officers could catch up with him, the gentleman had left the whether on the basis of these state in the comfort of a fishing boat, happenings, there is now enough evidence before the people, on which in which he took off from the port of to determine that Dr. Gonsalves does Chateaubelair. not any longer represent the best Ordinary citizens are still interests of the people of St. Vincent grappling with the declaration by and the Grenadines; that he cannot or Prime Minister Gonsalves that Mr. should not any longer be entrusted Ames had left the country with the leadership of this state, and “legitimately”. his continued presence in Parliament The episode begs the question, would be inimical to the welfare of “When was it that the police had the people. made the determination that Ames should have been made to attend LeRoy Providence Court to answer the charges against

Sad days for St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 15.

News

Time to change the mindset Mitchell-Joseph, Trustee at the National Trust, the world was evolving drastically, and the actions of humans affected the planet.

“If we took the time to observe the world around us, we can document a major change. I am certain that each of us can document some change on the earth,” Mitchell-Joseph said.

Whether it was a beach that has now been washed away, or that there are not as Cross section of the participants at the two-day workshop many crayfish, according to which included a tour combination of private and public Mitchell-Joseph, the world is sector workers. changing rapidly and the actions of people are having a THE NATIONAL TRUST continues here. to work towards sensitizing key The workshop was aimed at negative impact: “and it is stakeholders involved in various getting individuals to develop time that we took note of that.

“The workshop is about sectors, about the need for an appreciation for the appreciating the natural conservation and alternative natural beauty around them, beauty around us,” she said. livelihoods. and therefore opting for There are so many things Work continued this week alternative practices that will that exist in St Vincent and when a team from the preserve the environment the Grenadines, but Argentine-based conservation while creating activities for Vincentians do not take notice group, Fundacion Cethus tourists and locals alike. of them. conducted a two-day workshop According to Louise The former Chair of the

National Trust said that there was so much going on in the world: conflicts, Former National Trust Chair Louise war, and Mitchell-Joseph called for Vincentians to terrorism, and “the visitors that get to know and appreciate their natural come to our environment so as to preserve it for future shores are generations. escaping all of come to put the issue on a that.

“And it is my view that the national platform “to see to what extent it can help to best experience that we can build livelihoods while give these visitors is to bring them into contact with nature, maintaining the stock for future generations. because when one comes into “So if I was able to sit on a contact with nature, one can mountain top and look down reconnect with oneself, and one can leave all their troubles in the valley, I would also behind,” Mitchell-Joseph said want my children and other persons to have that at the opening ceremony on perspective, and that will not Tuesday. happen if we do not take care Chief Agricultural Officer of what the Almighty has Ashley Caine added that on blessed us with, and what our the question of whaling and livelihoods, whales have been forefathers have taken great care of, so that we have an with us and have been an opportunity going forward,” important part of the way of Caine said. (DD) life; however the time had

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16. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Shipping Broker wins Lotto A SHIPPING BROKER is the latest person to get his hands on the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) Lotto jackpot.

Wayne Crichton, a resident of Ratho Mill, collected his cheque during a handing- over ceremony at the NLA Headquarters in Paul’s L-R: Manager of NLA Mc Gregor Sealey presents cheque to winner Wayne Crichton.

Avenue. The Quick Pick ticket, with winning numbers 02,09,28,30 and 33, was purchased at M&N Bar in Cane Hall.

Crichton, for his good fortune, walks away with $242,000, tax free.

According to Product Development Officer at NLA Anthony Dennie, when Crichton visited the NLA headquarters to check his ticket, he had no knowledge that he had won the jackpot.

Crichton expressed

thanks to God for his winnings .He said he has been playing the game for over 30 years now, and has no intention of giving up. The Shipping Broker said he does not have any immediate plans as to how he is going to use the money,

but he is very happy since it is the first time he has ever won anything.

General Manager of the NLA Mc Gregor Sealey congratulated Crichton, and encouraged him to spend the money wisely. (KH)

FLOW continues to reward customers with CASH FLOW’S ‘SUMMER CASH FLOW’ promotion continues to reward customers with cash prizes for doing simple everyday transactions.

The latest persons to win EC$500 through ‘Summer Cash Flow’ are Chulman Francis, Stephanie Joseph, Denise Robinson and June Boyea.

“I’m feeling very excited this is the first time winning anytime.

FLOW provides an excellent service”, said Francis who works in Denise Robinson Canouan and has been a FLOW customer for the last two years. He won by topping up his phone.

Another winner, Boyea, commented, “I feel good, this is a good feeling”. She says that her winnings will go towards paying bills.

“I have been a FLOW customer for many years, as long as I have had a cell phone, which is a long time. I always like phones from since they were LIME”, said Boyea who revealed that she won by texting and will June Boyea continue taking part in the promotions that FLOW Offer.

According to Nikala Williams, Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager at FLOW, anyone can win with FLOW this summer.

Williams said that there are five ways to win money, top up EC$15 or more, activate a one week data plan, text ‘CASH FLOW’ to 6263, pay your post-paid mobile bill on time or talk for three minutes on prepaid mobile phone.

Stephanie Joseph FLOW customers who do any of these things are entered in random draws and can win instant cash weekly.

The summer promotion ends during the last week in August at which point the winner of the $10,000 grand prize will be announced.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

The UWI Open Campus and the OAS sign Memorandum of Understanding

Ms. Celia Toppin, OAS (left) and Dr. Luz Longsworth, Open Campus, sign the recent Memorandum of Understanding between both organisations.

THE UNIVERSITY OF THE West Indies (UWI) and the General Secretariat of the Organisation of American States (OAS) through the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday, August 5, 2016. This is a symbolic gesture demonstrating the parties’ commitment to the implementation of a project entitled, “Expanding the Socio-Economic Potential of Cultural Heritage in the Caribbean. Phase II: Implementation of Project

Components”.

Both parties, in signing the MOU, recognised that “cultural development is a key element for social and economic development of peoples”, and thus “the importance of acknowledging, preserving and promoting the heritage, traditions and ancestral knowledge” in order to ensure “better transmission to present and future generations”.

The new MOU between The UWI Open Campus and OAS will facilitate the development and

implementation of two online courses to enhance the curriculum available in the area of heritage education in the Caribbean region. The two courses are Values-based Heritage Site Management and Museum Conservation Skills.

Dr. Luz Longsworth, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Open Campus, in commenting on the MOU stated, “The University of the West Indies Open Campus is pleased to partner with the Organisation of American States through the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development noting that the GS/OAS will

make 50 scholarships to qualifying students”.

The MOU was signed by Ambassador Dr. Neil Parsan and Dr. Longsworth.

In attendance at the signing were Ms. Celia Toppin, Project Manager (Cultural Heritage), Culture & Tourism Section, Department of Economic Development Executive Secretariat for Integral Development; Dr. Monica Masino, Programme Coordinator, Programme Planning Department, Academic Programming and Delivery Division of the Open Campus; and Mrs. Wendy Nurse-Weekes, Executive Assistant to the Open Campus Principal.

Pan Academy gets a helping hand THE SOUTH EAST Development Inc. Copay Altie Pan Academy got a helping hand from an unexpected source. On August 5, Members with Mr. Harry of South 2016 between East Development Inc. 10:00 am and 2:00 p.m., members of the SVG Diaspora 4Rs Organization for Youths Helping Hands Club visited the South East Development pan yard and spent the time trimming, weeding, moving dirt and painting the pan shed.

The cleanup of the South East Development Inc. Copay Altie Pan Academy compound was part of the club’s volunteer summer camp programme which was held at the Mt. Coke Helping Hands Methodist Education members at the Centre in Stubbs from Botanical Gardens.

August 3-6.

Helping Hands The SVG Diaspora programme.

4Rs Organization for The SVG Diaspora Youths Helping Hands is 4Rs Organization for a youth development programme sponsored by Youths Helping Hands has volunteer groups in Caribbean nationals in the Diaspora. Director of Rose Hall, Chateaubelair, Rose the Diaspora group Dr. Place, Sandy Bay, Arlette Ann Tannis Barrouallie and explained that the Troumaca. They last organization’s aim is to use volunteerism to help came together on May 1st 2016 when they instill discipline, spent the day performing commitment and the tasks of cleaning, value of giving selfless planting and molding at service to others, in as the Botanical Gardens in many youths as are Kingstown. willing to be part of the

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 19.

News

Lions donate School Supplies Lions making donation to the We Care Day Care and Preschool.

Lions with the proud recipients of school supplies.

OVER FORTY STUDENTS were on Tuesday, August 16th, the proud recipients of book bags filled with school supplies, courtesy of the Lions Club of Kingstown SVG, at the Lion’s Den in Kingstown.

The project, in its fifth year, sought to identify some less fortunate but well deserving

youngsters, thereafter providing them with school bags, books and stationery for the new school year.

The project was made possible through donations from various business establishments, as well as Club members.

This year, a donation of pre-school furniture was also possible to the We

Care Day Care and PreSchool soon to be opened at Lowman’s Hill.

These follow closely on the heels of a monetary donation earlier in August to the Chauncey Methodist Church, to help with the Chauncey Methodist Craft & Cooking Camp. This commenced on Monday 15th August and would conclude on Friday 26th August. A table-top stove was also donated to aid in the facilitation of the cooking aspect of the camp.

BRAGSA rewards students THE ROADS, BUILDINGS and General Services Authority (BRAGSA) awarded this year’s recipients in the company’s Education Assistance Programme.

The students, Ronae Kirby and Ronaldo Andrews received their monetary contributions last L-R: Camalitha Kirby (Mom), Ronald Kirby (Dad), and Friday at the Ronae Kirby collect cheque from BRAGSA’s Chief company’s office in Executive Officer, Dexter Gellizeau Lower Bay Street, Kingstown.

The Education Assistance Programme is into its eighth year and, according to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dexter Gellizeau, monetary assistance is awarded to the children of employees of BRAGSA who were successful in the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment (CPEA) examination.

“BRAGSA continues to show our support to the children of our employees, and as such, it is our honour to provide financial assistance to our employees as they prepare their children for L-R: Jacqueline (Mom) and Ronaldo this chapter in their lives,” Andrews.

Gellizeau said.

L-R: Immediate Past President of the Lions Club of Kingstown-SVG, Lion Monica Glasgow; and officials from the Chauncey Methodist Church, Ms Browne and Ms Anne Jones, accepting the monetary donation from Club President, Lion Maria Burke.

V I need more 20. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

do what I have to do before I lose my mind.

THE TEMPTATION for me to My question to you is, go outside of my marriage would it be ok for me to and do what I know would get my satisfaction on drive my husband crazy is the side and let my husband go on thinking very strong. He is a good that all is well? I know I man but that is about it. can do this without him He has issues with his knowing and we can still manhood; you can say have a happy marriage. everything about it is What say you? premature, if you get my drift. I need more, and he Unhappy himself admitted at one time, that he cannot Dear Unhappy satisfy me, but at the same time he is happy A good marriage is that I am ok with it. based on trust and George, I am not ok commitment. You have a with it! I don’t want to husband who you put a hole in his ego. I need more, and the way I claimed is a good man, and who obviously has feel now, I have to go and get it. I know where the required confidence to get what I need, and I and trust in you to be faithful notwithstanding have long pondered about this, and I feel the his limitations or time has come for me to inability to satisfy your

I have no say anymore Dear George,

Dear George,

sexual appetite. Having a sexual fling outside of your marriage would not be a healthy thing for your or your marriage.

The side effects that come with that would be enough to destroy what you already have. It is better to work through the issues with your husband and get professional help if needs be. Your husband will respect you for committing to doing whatever it takes to make things better for your relationship. Focus on what is good in your

marriage, and find ways to make things better.

Going outside will undoubtedly affect the smooth running of the inside.

George

MY WIFE USED to listen to me when I would advise her as to what to wear and what not to wear. Lately she has taken a turn in the opposite direction. She has put on a few more pounds in the hip area and she looks really sexy. She has now decided to be wearing a set of tight jeans etc.

When she walks down the road, she likes the

How many times?

Dear George,

idea of men whistling to her as she goes by. I do not like the attention she is getting. I am against her wearing jeans, or pants on a whole. She can more than wear more conservative clothes, but she chooses not to. Her jeans are definitely attracting too much attention, and I do not like it. A wife is supposed to listen to her husband. I want you to tell her that, Mr. George.

Unnecessary headache Dear Unnecessary headache,

Your concerns are many and valid. In pure and simple terms, you and your husband need to talk, and he needs to hear what you have to say. He should be reminded that the bedroom intimacy needs to swing both ways, and for now, he seems to be the one having all the ‘fun’. Let him know of your displeasure, and make suggestions that would work for you both. You need to also voice your concerns about your fears of him having extra marital affairs, and get him to see how those fears are affecting your functioning, sexually and otherwise. A considerate husband would listen and do what it takes to keep you happy.

It seems as though you have a serious jealousy problem. In addition to that, your insecurity is propelling you to dictate to your wife in a way that may seem unfair to her. You need to search yourself to get to the real reason why you do not want your wife to be wearing what she is wearing.

What are you afraid of?

Maybe you should start complimenting her a bit more, and in so doing, she may be less inclined to seek after compliments from the outside, seeing that she is being showered with them at home. Husbands and wives ought to listen to each other, but at the same time, remember your wife does not need you to be the father figure; she needs you to be that loving and reasonable husband she fell in love with in the beginning. Get back to he basics and work your way forward.

George

George

HOW MANY TIMES must a man want to make love with his wife in one day? My husband has moved from 3 times to 5 times. I am convinced he is taking something that I am not aware of. The sexual sessions with him are long, and most times painful. He is no longer that graceful, loving man in bed, but has turned into some sort of beast. I hate the positions he wants to place me in, and I also hate the things he says to me. He was never like that, and it has me uncomfortable. If I refuse him at any time he would walk out of the house and would not come back until the wee hours of the morning and go straight to bed. I think he is cheating on me, but I have no way of proving it.

How can I protect myself if he is cheating?

Worried Dear worried,

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) An older loved one may be having problems. You will also encounter individuals who can help you further your goals. This could be a serious relationship. Try not to overspend on friends or family.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) You can easily impress others with your generous nature. Get the red tape and the unwanted paperwork out of the way. It might be best to work on your own; if possible, do your job out of your home this week. It might be time to make a fresh start.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) You may find that someone you really cared for in the past has come back into your life. Try to avoid being extravagant this week. Raise your self-esteem and your confidence if you want to get back into the mainstream again. Your fight for those less fortunate is not likely to end in sweet victory.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You may be likely to have difficulties with females. Do you really want to start something with someone you can't reason with? Don't push your opinions on others this week or you may find yourself in the doghouse.

Don't be too critical.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Romance can surface if you get into some of those fitness programs you've been putting off. Set a limit, or you'll wind up on a tight budget. You may want to stay in the background this week. You should be putting your cash into long-term investments like real estate.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) It's time to reconnect with some of the people you used to know. Work on legitimate financial deals that may enable you to bring in some extra cash.

Strengthen your position among your peers. Your devotion will be persuasive.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Speak of your future goals, intentions, and commitments. Get involved in volunteer work that will bring you satisfaction, not an empty wallet. Go out with friends who are positive and supportive. Include friends and family members in your redecorating plans.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Secret enemies may be holding a grudge that you're not even aware of. Career changes may not be your choice right now, but in the long run they will be to your advantage. Put your energy into learning new skills or picking up valuable information. You can meet potential new mates if you socialize with friends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will be able to make financial gains.

There'll be difficulties if you spend too much. Your charm will mesmerize members of the opposite sex this week.

You will be in an overly generous mood this week.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) If you've been really busy, try to schedule some time to spend with loved ones. You may have a problem at work with a female co-worker. You may want to look into warm vacation spots. You may have to explain your actions to your family.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You have a tendency to think that no one else will do things properly. Travel may be confusing. Romantic encounters will develop through group activity.

Secret information will be eye opening.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will find that money could slip through your fingers. Passion is inevitable and commitments can be made during the heat of the night. Go with the flow and don't be concerned about your own job. Resist secret affairs that could be detrimental to your reputation.

ACROSS

38. Guess at a price (abbr.)

1.Trail behind 39. Theater box 4. Ad __ 40. Metallic 7. Nibble element 11. Dinghy need 43. Internet 12. Quote auction site 13 “__ Man” 45. Beatty of (1984 Film) “Superman” 14. Lamb’s lament 48. Actor 15. Shoe part Estrada 16. Attain through 49. Ayres and work Wallace 17. No (Ger.) 50. Cycle start 19. Grade Point for a tot Average 51. Snaky (abbr.) creatures 21. Letters on a 52. “Agreed!” bank 53. Certain 22. Corn chip elected 9. Rainy mo. brand official (abbr.) 10. Took the 25. Ken of laurels “thirtysomeDOWN 12. Oh so thing” fashionable 26. Rebuff 1.Tennis hit 18. Bonn “one” 27. “Treasure 2. Motorists’ 21. Apple seeds Island” group 21. Vigorous Inits. (abbr.) dance 29. “__ Rita” 3. Ostentatious 22. Punch at 30. Guides 4. Legal claim on wildly 31. Cashew, e.g. property 23. Christmas 32. Naval rank 5. Adherent tree (abbr.) (suffix) decorations 33. “Garfield” 6. Capital of 24. Economic pooch Serbia reverse 34. St. Louis 7. “Fantastic!”

25. Lode yield footballers 8. Teacher’s 26. In a dignified 35. Friendly group manner 37. Press down (abbr.)

28. Easy and

Main (abbr.)

30. “Hi and __” 34. Scrap of cloth 36. Choker sites 37. Hasbro products 39. Ordinances

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 21.

40. Final letter 41. Anger 42. Naught 44. Stinging insect 46. Poetic “before” 47. Loud noise

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22. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sport

French family in love with SVG

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES may have a new ambassador. It comes in the form of a Paris-based family. Frank and Celine Bornay have two children: Jade and Karl. Jade is 14, but is giving every indication that she will be a force to reckon with on the Tennis circuit.

Jade took the Under 18 version at the recent International Tennis Federation Junior Championship staged at Villa, St. Vincent and the

Grenadines. That was August 8, and most of the other visiting competitors from 30 other countries would have returned to their homes. But the Bornay family, Briana Nash enchanted by the lure of the Vincentian landscape, lingered and, for all intents and purposes , took at the National part in local heritage.

Insurance The family was part of a Ministry of Services training Tourism, Sports, and Culture escapade room last Tuesday. The Bornays were

150 graduate from STEM A TOTAL of 150 students graduated from the 2016 STEM programme, during the closing ceremony on Friday at the St. Martin’s Secondary School.

The STEM programme featured the usual Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic components, but emphasis was also placed on the Visual Arts aspect, along with extracurricular activities.

Soyini Palmer, Programme Manager for the STEM programme, in her opening remarks said it was their 4th year of operation, and plans are already in place for celebrating its 5th anniversary next year. She noted the fact that through the visual arts component, they were able to bring out the extra flare in the primary school students’ artistic and creative capabilities.

Sessions ran for 5 weeks, and Palmer described the time spent as fun-filling and engaging. She explained that on the secondary level, they completed courses ranging from English to website designs and robotics.

The facilitators this year came from various educational institutions and backgrounds, and brought a vast knowledge in different subject areas.

The students were also involved in extracurricular activities such as swimming, tennis, squash, banana art and canoeing. Palmer congratulated the facilitators for their hard work, and encouraged the youths to be more creative, innovative and confident.

Petrus Gumbs, Founder/ Director of

Facilitators of the 2016 STEM programme with Director Petrus Gumbs, Director of the STEM programme (furthest right in the back row). the STEM programme, said that during its execution, there were some challenges, including the issues of the Zika Virus and delay in shipment of necessary materials, “But with a committed and flexible team, we were able to pull through the five weeks pretty nicely,” said Gumbs.

He said the enterprise is growing, and with a total of 150 students, it is great since STEM is in its 4th year.

“It means either one or two things; we are doing something good or your parents would pay anything to get you out of the house,” Gumbs said jokingly.

The STEM Director said that after reviewing the 2015 programme, they realized that a few things needed to be put in place, which ultimately resulted in some first time initiative for this year. These included sporting activities, Parents ICT Day and The Village, in the form of a network of professionals that assist in nurturing the youths. He said that there were various field trips that included a visit to the Richmond Vale Academy where the youths were exposed to a large amount of information from students of different nationalities. “This year, quite a few primary students step up to the challenge; once you introduce

A few participants in the STEM Programme visited The Vincentian office on Tuesday 9th, August, 2016 to get a first-hand look of the inner workings of a newspaper publication.

them to something .., they go home and start working on it,” said Gumbs, adding that there is a need for more positive influence for the youths today.

Shanice Harper, a student of the St. Mary’s RC School, told the gathering that it was her first year attending the programme, and it was both educational and fulfilling. “I got to learn a lot of new things that will help me in school,” said Harper. She also showcased a game that she had developed, and expressed thanks to all those who supported her.

Minister of Technology Camillo Gonsalves described the STEM programme as just absolutely fantastic. “I think it is one of the most important programmes happening in St. Vincent and the Grenadines right now,” said Gonsalves. He noted that “we have to embrace technology, sciences and unlock the imagination of the youths in SVG”, telling the youths that they are the future, and their future looks bright.

The Technology Minister said that schools alone cannot solve the problem, therefore programmes such as STEM can play a pivotal role, and he expressed thanks to the teachers, facilitators, instructors and sponsors.

Featured Speaker IT Manager at NIS Haniff Sutherland expressed the need for a public and private partnership to help develop the nation’s youths. “Government must therefore work with the private sector to catapult these programmes, far too many times we await on the policy makers to get the whole job done. I am saying that it must be a partnership, a joining of collective will and intent to propel our youths to the next level,” said Sutherland. Remarks were also delivered by Stina Heberg from the Richmond Vale Academy.

Following the closing ceremony, the audience were treated to various exhibitions, including a Visual Robot competition, Game Development, Art, Science and Coding competitions.

(KH)

at ease at the The Bonays: function.

Jade, Celene, Jade formed part of Karl and the platform party, Frank. and was in company with Vincentian Briana Nash who took the Under 14 category at that same ITF Junior tournament.

And with Sh’ne Joachim and Nicolas Sylvester in the house, there was the making of a future sports collection.

McKie welcomed the local Football Federation, especially that Public Servants have a half-holiday September 2. McKie expects that they will go to the Arnos Vale Playing Field to support Vincy Heat in the World Cup qualifying encounter with US. Bevorn Poyer, from the SVGFF, invited the nation to show solidarity with the squad. Overseas players Cornelius Stewart, Oalex Anderson and Myron Samuel will serve as incentives, for Poyer will welcome a victory as consolation.

Chairman of the National Sports Council Board of Directors Richard Branch alluded to plans for a Sporting Weekend, with an Over 35 Masters Competition carded to round off at Victoria Park. That event coincides with the presence of the US team on Vincentian soil.

Stephen Joachim, President of the local Swimming Association, endorsed the performances of his two outstanding athletes. He noted their progress, even though the Rio escapade did not float the way it might have. Sylvester is focussing on the next Olympics in Tokyo, 2020. Stephen points to the same destination for Shne. The attention is on the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Swimming Championship scheduled for November.

Swimming coach Kyle Dougan was commended for helping with the improvements of the athletes. (WKA)

Mc Kie with Nikolas Sylvester and Shne Joachim.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 23.

„Happy with my stint in the CPL,‰ says Williams

helped me a lot to think more of my for a spot in the Bangladesh game. So when Stein left, I realized I Premier League draft later this year. had to take up that mantle and fill that big spot. I knew the team had the “This would be a good confidence and trust in me, and it felt opportunity for me to good. There was never a time I felt like showcase my talent outside the Caribbean, so I am the batsmen would get the better of hopeful,” he said. me, especially the international players and the specialist players in But there is also the unfinished business of his this format (T20),” he said on being studies at the UWI, Cave pushed by the interviewer.

Williams finished with the third Hill.

Williams, who took a break most wickets, 17, in the tournament, with an economy rate of just over 8, a from his studies, confirmed strike rate 14.8, with his best being 4 that, “I am still in the process for 37 from 4 overs against the Guyana of getting back my scholarship to UWI and Amazon Warriors in Basseterre, St. Keswick Williams Keswick Williams, working towards my degree Kitts. He followed Guyana Warriors’ celebrates after picking Vincentian fast Sohail Tanvir with 20 wickets and because, as we know, up a second wicket in two bowler, education is a part of life, and balls against Guyana Dwayne Bravo, captain of Trinbago represented Knight Riders, with the most wickets, there is life after cricket.”

Warriors in the finals of Jamaica Before closing, Williams 21. the 2016 CPL. Tallawahs in the 2016 CPL. Looking ahead, Williams believes said he was grateful to a teammates, fans number of people who played a getting into a PCL team for the significant part in his development. “I and family for the regional four-day and 50 overs support. The support I received from tournaments would be good, as he sets am grateful to Denis Byam, the these people during the tournament, his efforts on improving his Physio, for assisting me with my (CPL), it just lifted my spirit and fitness after injury; Ian Allen for his performance in those formats. confidence and now looking to do assistance with my bowling and “The next step for me is the first better and brighter things.” class level. I have been approached by getting me ready for the CPL level; Jamaica for the regional season, but also to Conrod ‘Abuja’ Ryan of Spring I.B.A.ALLEN Village and all the friends,, other there is also the Windward Islands. I am still in the process of making the right decision,” he disclosed.

Williams intimated that AlHassan has also spoken to him EXPECT THAT THERE in efforts to grow about putting his name down will be increased intensity the sport of rugby here.

This is the indication from SVG Rugby Union officials, who have found ST VINCENT AND THE added measure Grenadines gathered four of and impetus, the individual awards given the wide presented last Sunday night at coverage and the closing ceremony of following Rugby These young people, who comprise the inaugural Eastern Sevens (7-a-side) the SVG National Rugby team, are as Caribbean Volleyball received during passionate and committed as all Association (ECVA) Under-23 this year’s Women’s Tournament at the other national sportspersons in SVG. Olympics in Rio, Vide Boutielle Secondary Brazil. of promise and opportunity.

School’s court in St Lucia.

Reports are that Rugby What stands rugby out Alicia Glasgow was awarded Sevens was watched with from other team sports, is Best Opposite Spike and was admiration and excitement how we treasure our the Best Server, while Shernell by millions of people values: Integrity, Passion, Browne was one of two Solidarity, Discipline and Opposite Hitters who accepted Alicia Glasgow was Shernell Browne was Kaylah Leigertwood- worldwide. Viewers from all over the world, Respect,” a statement from trophies for their Spiking.

Ollivierre was one of the Best Server and awarded Best including SVG, witnessed SVG Rugby Union said.

The other Vincentian to be two Best Blockers.

Best Opposite Spike. Outside Hitter. the athletes’ (male and And as the efforts to rewarded was Kaylah female) speed, endurance, grow rugby here Leigertwood- Ollivierre as she tournament, beating the BVI on went 23-25, 22-25 and 13-25, skills and non-stop action, intensifies, expect an was one of two recipients who while it was 18-25, 24-26 and two occasions. In their first as well as their passion for increased attention on were named the Best Blockers.

16-25 versus St Lucia. victory, St Vincent and the their sport and their recruiting youth (girls and St Lucia’s Kerin Neptune took The gold medal match Grenadines ran out 3-1 winners, country. boys) men and women to the tournament’s Most Valuable resulted in St Lucia defeating (25-22, 25-23, 23- 25, 25-16) “In a country where we the sport here.

Player award.

Antigua and Barbuda 3-0(25-14, have raw talent, St Vincent and the Interested persons can St Vincent and the 25-20, 25-15).

Grenadines was beaten by athleticism and tons of attend training at the Sion Grenadines took the bronze Final standings: St Lucia — runner — up Antigua and drive, there has never been Hill Playing Field on medal by dispensing of the first, Antigua and BarbudaBarbuda and eventual winners — a better time to get Tuesdays and Thursdays British Virgin Islands 3-0 (25-9, second; St Vincent and the St Lucia, both by 3-0 margins. involved with a sport here from 5pm.

25-18, 25-22).

Grenadines- third and the In their meeting with St that is not only one of the The Vincentians ended with British Virgin Islands- fourth.

Vincent and the Grenadines fastest growing, but is full I.B.A.ALLEN a 2-2 win loss ratio in the Antigua and Barbuda, the sets

GIVEN HIS PERFORMANCE in his debut season (2016) in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), one would not have faulted Keswick Williams for being a little more upbeat than saying merely that he was happy with his season’s performance.

However, given the nature of this unassuming 26-year-old Vincentian fast bowler, a native of Spring Village, North Leeward, who represents Team Rivals in local cricket, this rather subdued reaction should have been expected.

Williams returned home last week, having contributed in no small measure to the Jamaica Tallawahs’ victory in the 2016 CPL. “Playing in the CPL for the first time was really great for me. It is a feeling that any youngster in the Caribbean would want to experience,” he told THE VVINCENTIAN in an exclusive interview.

“I didn’t know what to expect, even though I knew exactly what I wanted to do; but being around the fellows in the first two weeks of camp, during which we gelled as a team; that, I believe, led us to become champions,” Williams added.

He admitted to initial feelings of being ‘an underdog’ among so many superstars, but credited the camaraderie during the camp for building his confidence.

“Being around players like Kumar Sangakkara, Dale Stein, Chris Gayle, Shakid Al Hasan and Andre Russell, and the confidence they showed in me,

Rugby drive to be intensified

Under-23 volleyballers grab four awards at ECVA women’s event

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24. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Silver lining WITH THE EXCITEMENT GENERATED by Usain Bolt’s phenomenal 100 metre finish last Sunday, one man turned up the antennae hours later to snatch an incredible World record performance in the 400 metres.

That distance is perhaps the most gruelling in any track event. Americans have dominated the distance, so it is in that light that one must give kudos to South African Wayde van Niekerk.

He smashed a 43.03 seconds miracle to crown a dynamic burst. He left defending champion Kirani James from the Spice Isle of Grenada second.

Third place went to the 2008 Olympic 400 metres winner LeShawn Merritt. Niebert’s run was blistering. I would have preferred to be giving the compliments to James after whom the recently refurbished Stadium in his homeland will be named.

But Kirani has nothing to be ashamed of. He kept the lid on Merritt whom he displaced at the London Games four years ago. Nieberk will have every reason to project on 2020 in Tokyo, where he will endeavour to retain that title. Whether he shaves the record will be seen.

The Olympics provide the stage for stars to emerge. Nieberk has proven to be one of those this year.

He may not accomplish the feat that Bolt has.

But who else can match the Jamaican when it comes to track?

Nieberk has a fairy tale, however. He was born prematurely, and doctors put his survival as minimal. That must be a cause for celebration the world over.

It must be a marvel for the coaches. They tend to be younger, and even if of the ‘fairer sex,’ one would not have bargained for that number. It shows that age is honour, as the late Fatty Dan professed in song.

But such are the legacies of the apartheid system. Nieberk’s mother bemoaned the situation that, had it not been for the practice of racial separation, she might have been in a different situation, and her son may not have surfaced the way he has.

Nieberk revealed another factor of life, in that what is for a person, no one can take away.

Even though Nieberk had to have been a contender, it was a pity that neither the announcer on television as the race progressed, nor the camera man following it seemed to have much concern for Nieberk.

It was noted that he started quickly, running “blindly” from lane eight. Attention was more on the American Merritt, with the hopes that he would have exacted revenge on James. It was coincidental that James and Merritt were in nearby lanes. But Nieberk, who never relinquished the lead, hardly figured in the front view camera.

But those will be matters that people will get to realise as time passes. James proved that he has been exceptional quality.

In normal circumstances, it would have been a superb run by him. But such was the extent of Nieberk’s burst, that nothing but praise must go to him.

Golden Girls ward off Attack GOLDEN GIRLS OF FITZ Hughes emerged champions of the DMG North Leeward Women’s Softball Cricket when they beat Attack Girls of Spring Village by nine runs at the Petit Bordel Playing Field last Sunday. Golden Girls reached 81 runs in 13 overs, buoyed by Tonicia Creese with a top score of 14. Jenifer Charles 4 for 16 led the bowling for Attack Girls.

Attack Girls were restricted to 73 for 6 in their 15 allotted overs.

Jenifer Charles 23, put in good allround display to share the MVP of the final title. She was supported in the chase

by Sandra Samuel 19.

Daniel George 2 for 19, redeemed herself in the final over with the two wickets, with Attack Girls needing 10 runs to win.

Shannel Mckie, the Golden Girls live wire, scored 282 runs and with her 10 wickets was adjudged the Most Valuable Player for her team.

However, the tournament’s MVP was Daniel George who shared the MVP finals

award.

Sherrion Williams of Attack Girls had the most runs: 414.

Yoland Granderson, who played for Upsetters, was the tournament’s leading wicket taker with19.

Pathesha Lewis, who played for Simple Champio,n was her team’s MVP with 228 runs and seven Golden Girls. wickets.

Kayandra Lewis of Coreas Troumaca was that team’s MVP with 235 runs and four wickets MVP. Jussel Jack was Ghetto Girls’ MVP, based on her 117 runs and 14 wickets.

Veron Edwards took the MVP for Most Discipline team Rose Bank United. She scored 152 and took 12 Attack Girls wickets.

The MVP for Shantel Murray Pace Setters was Judith representing We FM Bowens with157 runs Beach Front, was her and seven wickets.

team’s MVP. She amassed 141 runs and took one wicket.

Young male Volleyballers set for senior debut SEVERAL OF ST VINCENT and the Grenadines young male volleyballers are set to make their senior debut when the first round of the NORCECA Zone of the World Championships qualifiers takes place in Grenada this weekend.

St Vincent and the Grenadines’ team which was set to release on Wednesday, Team coach -Vance will include the core of the Andrews.

Under-21 team which played in the Inter- continental Championships in Canada in July and the Windward Islands Schools Games in Grenada also last month.

The young players saw St Vincent and the Grenadines to sixth place in the inter-continental outing, inclusive of taking a set off Barbados in the play off for the fifth place, then slammed Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 in the race for the sixth spot.

At that championships, Marcus Thomas gained the award of Best Blocker, among players from the USA, Canada, Cuba and Guatemala.

Considering the future of St Vincent and the Grenadines volleyball, the emerging male players

The SVG Senior Male Volleyball team during practice on Tuesday at the Girls’ High School Court. ended at the top of the standings at the Windward Islands Schools Games.

The young St Vincent and the Grenadines team coached by Vance Andrews, will however have to contend with some experienced players from Bermuda, St Kitts and Nevis and host Grenada, as all four teams will be looking to advance to the second round of the championships.

The two top teams from this group will go forth to the second phase of the qualifiers.

When St Vincent and the Grenadines last contested the World Championships in 2012/2013, a second round berth was their highest attainment.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 25.

V

26. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Building and Loan Association’s CEO, Elroy John (extreme right), with 2016 scholarship and bursary winners. President of the Building and Loan Association Camille Crichton and Director Fidel Neverson are pictured left to right in the back row.

Students get Building and Loan support STUDENTS continue to receive help for their secondary education following their performances in the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment held earlier this year.

Thirteen of them will have support from the local Building and Loan Association. Jehlani Bacchus and Alyssa Trotman will receive $1200 a year up to Form Three, and $1400 from there on, to take them through Community College.

They will have to keep up their grades, however. President of the Building and Loan Association Camille Crichton urged them to maintain high grades.

Crichton mentioned that

members were pleased to help students, and acknowledged that the Building and Loan Association had come a long way.

It demonstrated that “great things are happening at Building and Loan,” according to Crichton.

Fidel Neverson, Building and Loan Association’s Director, was happy that the institution resumed its scholarship programme.

He pledged their commitment to the students’ education.

“We will always be there for you,” Neverson assured. Elroy R. John, Building and Loan Association’s Chief Executive Officer served

as Master of Ceremonies.

He encouraged the students to use the opportunity they were provided with.

Karen Bellingy, a former Questelles Primary School student, enters the Thomas Saunders Secondary School with a $500 award from Building and Loan.

Ten other students were given assistance from the Association.

They are: Jelancia Spring, Luke Nichols, Dray-Ann Drayton, Chester Toney JR., Eroy John, Milan Compton, Tyrel Deshaun John, Kenale Alleyne, Jahzinah Lyttle, and Jared Dalton. (WKA)

Long serving member honoured THE EXECUTIVE AND MEMBERS of the SVG Taxi Drivers Association have taken time out to honour one of our long serving members, Mr. Casper Cambridge of Cane Garden.

He has been a taxi driver for about 40 years, and has served the travelling public very well.

Cambridge has also been a loyal member of the Association, and we take great pleasure in awarding him on his retirement. He will be missed by all our members and valued customers.

Angus Martin

The President of the SVG Taxi Drivers Association Winston ‘Pops’ Morgan. making presenation to Casper Cambridge, while otehr members of the Association look on.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016. 27.

Classifieds

Diplomatic shake-up

Continued from Backpage.

Omari Williams has been acting as Charge d’Affaires since Prince’s exit. Gilchrist will adopt her new office on Sept. 1, Straker said.

In Canada, he said Counsel General Fitzgerald Huggins will remain in place; and, in the United Kingdom, High Commissioner Cenio Lewis, of Calder, will serve for another year.

“We’re considering a number of things,” said Sir Louis without elaborating.

In Havana, Cuba and Caracas, Venezuela, the foreign affairs minister said that Ambassadors Dexter Rose and Andreas Wickham, respectively, will be recalled.

Straker did not say who will replace the Coulls Hill-born Wickham, but disclosed that Ellsworth John, a former ambassador to the US and OAS, will succeed Rose on Oct. 1.

Wickham will return home next June, said Straker without disclosing what new assignments will be given to Rose, Wickham, Lewis and Walters.

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LEOTIA ELFREDIA TOBY-PETERS St. Philips Spiritual Baptist Church Georgetown Sunday 14th August 2016 Service at 2:00 p.m.

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S.D. Adventist Church Stubbs Sunday 14th August 2016 Service at 3:00 p.m.

Evangelical Church Petit Bordel Sunday 14th August 2016 Service at 3:00 p.m.

ROHAN HARRY Mt Zion Spiritual Baptist Church Barrouallie Sunday 14th August 2016 Service at 3:00 p.m.

LYN SAM ALEXANDER New Testament Church Tromaca Sunday 14th August 2016 Service at 2:00 p.m.

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

S A L E

FRIDAY,

AUGUST 19, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.33

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DIPLOMATIC SHAKE-UP sometimes, we keep people in office for too long,” the Foreign Affairs Minister told THE VINCENTIAN, in an exclusive interview on Saturday, ahead of the administration’s diplomatic week, which began the next day.

“I think we have to make changes,” he added. “Sometimes, changes are for the better.”

Sir Louis disclosed Deputy Prime Minister and that Howie Prince, the Minister of Foreign Affairs head of the National Sir Louis Straker.

Emergency Management

by NELSON A. KING Organization (NEMO), naking@verizon.net; will replace New York kingnaking210@yahoo.com Counsel General US CORRESPONDENT Selmon Walters, who has been under fire for DECLARING that changes what observers alleged is are good for the nation, St. his mismanagement of Vincent and the the New York Consulate Grenadines’ Deputy Prime General that provides Minister and Minister of consular services to the Foreign Affairs, Sir Louis largest concentration of Straker, says the Vincentians in the administration of Prime Diaspora.

Minister Dr. Ralph E. The deputy prime Gonsalves has made minister said Walters, a several diplomatic changes former government to its overseas offices. minister in the Gonsalves Sir Louis said that, administration, will while the officially demit office by recommendations must end-August. be confirmed by the He described Walters’ Public Service successor as possessing Commission and signed “outstanding” managerial off by Governor General skills and experiences, Sir Frederick Ballantyne, adding that Prince “will the changes are be good for the country.” necessary and are Walters’ departure aligned with the comes about 2 ½ years government’s policy of after a major scandal not keeping any erupted at the New York diplomatic representative Consulate General indefinitely in any involving Walters’ position. deputy, Edson Augustus, “The Cabinet feels, a former Seventh-day

Adventist Church pastor, who was recalled on Feb. 5, 2014, because of what the government said were “activities outside the scope of his employment and inimical to interests of the Consulate General and the Government and people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.”

In the wake of the scandal, Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace, called on the government to overhaul the New York Consulate General, stating that the negative image of the New York Consulate General must be immediately changed.

That “overhaul”, Eustace, a former prime minister, said should involve Walters, saying that the alleged “scandal” had taken place on his watch.

But, even with Augustus’ long departure, Vincentians, in some quarters in the Big Apple, have reportedly been displeased with Walters’ performance. Some also said he was “heavyhanded” in dealing with Augustus’ successor, Chateaubelair-born Sehon Marshall.

Subsequently, at a town hall meeting at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center, Walters announced, and new Government minister Camillo Gonsalves, a former foreign affairs minister, confirmed, that Marshall was transferred to the St.

Howie Prince will replace Counsel General Selmon Walters.

Vincent and the Grenadines’ Mission to the United Nations.

Sir Louis said that Marshall, now a Minister Counsellor, will be among new appointments at the Mission, as the administration seeks to “boost” the office ahead of its application for nonPermanent Membership on the United Nations Security Council in 2019.

He disclosed that Marsena Ballantyne, the Sandy Bay-born former aide to the Ambassador to the UN, I. Rhonda King, has been promoted to Minister Counsellor, and that another Minister Counsellor will soon be appointed.

“We have to beef up our staff [at the Mission],” Straker said.

“We have to show that we’re involved in various organizations of the UN.” But, even with the shake-ups, the deputy prime minister said King will remain in place.

Straker said Prince

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

Elsworth John will replace Dexter Rose as Ambassador to Cuba.

Fitz Huggins retains his position as Counsel General in Canada. will serve without a deputy, but will work alongside Bernadette Ambrose-Black, current head of SVG Invest, as the new trade attaché.

Sir Louis said Ambrose-Black’s primary role will involve generating “business for the country” — a task Eustace had told THE VINCENTIAN that a New Democratic Party (NDP) administration would pursue if it had assumed office.

The deputy prime

Lou-Ann Gilchrist will replace La Celia Price as Ambassador to the United States and The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.

Cenio Lewis also will retain his position as High Commissioner in the United Kingdom. minister said Chief Education Officer LouAnn Gilchrist will replace La Celia Prince as Ambassador to the United States and the Organization of American States (OAS). Prince departed last year to assume a position with the Washington-based OAS. Continued on Page 27.

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