Vin pages 21 10 16 e reader to use

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 21, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.42

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

WE APOLOGISE

The jeep in which Kyron Sylvester was found, shows what appears to be bullet impressions on the front windshield.

Father of the youngster, Michael Sylvester, recalled The local constabulary has hearing shots early that another matter on their hands. morning, but he did not go Investigations continue into outside. At about 6:30am when the circumstances surrounding he did venture outside, he the death of 19-year-old Kyron found his son slumped across Sylvester, whose body, with a the driver’s seat of a two-door gunshot wound to the head, was jeep PR 998, in the yard of the discovered in a motor vehicle, in residence they occupied.

Villa, on Wednesday morning, The vehicle showed signs of according to police. bullet marks to the windscreen,

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

and it came to a stop next to a garbage bin.

Kyron spent his early years in Paul’s Avenue in the heart of capital city Kingstown. He moved to Villa in recent times where he lived with his father.

His mother, Cas Tommy, died of natural causes some years ago.

Kyron was employed at his father’s popular food outlet, Kye Vegetarian Cuisine, Paul’s

Inset: Kyron Sylvester’s shooting death followed closely on that of 10month-old Mozary Lee.

Avenue.

This incident adds to a list of gun related incidents which have raised alarm and eyebrows.

Commissioner of Police Renold Hadaway repeated a call to citizens to share with the Police any information they might have in relation to any crime(s). He assured the public that information shared with the police will be handled in the strictest confidence.

Kyron’s death brought to twenty-six the number of homicides recorded so far for the year.

WE APOLOGISE FOR misidentifying the child pictured below in a front page story of THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 14th October, 2016.

We identified the child as Mozary Lee, the 10month-old child who was shoot and killed in a hail of bullets at his parents’ home in Glen.

We now know the child as pictured to be Omarian Durham, who resides in good health with his grandmother Marva Baptiste at Glen.

We apologise to the family of Omarian for any discomfort caused by our error, and assure them that there was no ill-intent on our part.

We take this opportunity to inform that the funeral service for Mazary Lee will take place this Sunday, October 23, beginning at 2:30pm, at the Glen Christian Church.

The body will lie at the church from 1:30pm.

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2. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Independence Anniversary is a time for celebration and a time for reflection

MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY SIR FREDERICK N. BALLANTYNE, G.C.M.G., MD, DSc GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES TO MARK THE 37TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE OF ST. VINCENT AND THE

GRENADINES 27TH OCTOBER, 2016

future.

I have chosen to highlight a few of these e celebrate the challenges, with the hope great achievement that my ideas will start we have made some discussion among over the past thirty-seven our citizens. years, and at the same Let me be the first to time, we focus on the admit that there is enormous challenges nothing new here, and facing us today, and which that efforts are already are likely to face us in the underway to address

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some of these problems.

I am, however, of the opinion that it is often beneficial to remind us of the things we already know, if only to bring them from the “back burner” into the mainstream.

Everyone will agree that in this global economic climate, it is

impossible for small island states to survive on their own.

Yet, efforts at Caribbean Integration seem to be moving forward at a snail’s pace.

Maybe if we strive for greater unity among our people, on a national level, in all of the islands, the goal of Caribbean Integration might one day become reality.

Our success in the field of education is very commendable; we have many more schools since Independence, better trained teachers, more students in the secondary and tertiary institutions; but is our educational system preparing our students for today’s world?

Is there enough focus on science and technology? Are our graduates equipped to join today’s job market?

Even in the developed countries, educators grapple with finding the best education model for this changing environment.

Should we also take a critical look at our system to determine if it needs revision?

As a physician, I am very proud of the gains we have made in health.

Our infant and maternal mortality rates are very low. Our children are 100% immunized, we no longer see children dying from malnutrition.

There are more health clinics, and we can soon boast of an excessive number of nurses and physicians.

However, the increasing incidence of hypertension, diabetes and obesity, plus the emergence of new mosquito-borne diseases such as Chikungunya and Zika, put tremendous pressures on the State’s finances.

There are also numerous complaints of the health care delivery system, which would lead one to believe that it is in need of revision.

All developed countries battle with the problem of delivery health care. The systems in the United States of America, Britain and Canada are all different.

Having been exposed in a casual way to many different systems, I am left to conclude, like many experts in the field, that the Cuban model of health care delivery is the best, and I will strongly recommend that we investigate this model to ascertain if it is the best for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

As we become more and more reliant on tourism, we need to educate the population about its benefits and the need to protect the whole tourism “package” including but not limited to protection of the environment, littering, noise pollution and crimes against tourists.

Most disturbing to me personally is the large number of persons who live below the poverty line. We cannot depend on Government alone to address this problem. I am therefore appealing to all Vincentians, especially the successful professionals and business people to make eradication of poverty one of their priorities.

Time and space do not allow me to speak at length of all the challenges facing our new young independent nation. Others might wish to highlight unemployment, crime and substance abuse, all of which are equally important.

It is time for a National Dialogue between all concerned Vincentians, joining hearts and voices to see how we can preserve and improve this country which we all love so much.

May God bless you this Independence and bless St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 3.

News 3

Mother still in search of answers

IT’S BEEN JUST OVER two months since Merlene Shortte lost her 17-year-old daughter in a vehicular mishap, but she is nowhere closer to getting answers to her many concerns.

Merlene’s daughter, Kiara, died on the spot when the vehicle in which she was travelling careened over an embankment along the Hopewell/Maroon Hill road in the Marriaqua Valley.

The still distraught mother described the last few weeks as difficult saying that she has been trying still, to cope with the loss of her daughter.

“I am trying hard to be strong…especially being alone in the house after sending the others (children) to school, and the same school that she (Kiara) used to go, it is painful,” she said.

Merlene said that she would often mistakenly refer to one of her children as Kiara — an indication that she still is yet to get over the loss of her child.

Immediately following the tragic event, Merlene got a glimpse of hope when it was discovered that her daughter was messaging someone on her mobile phone.

Back then, she said,

she held on to the hope that the individual with whom Kiara was communicating, would have been able to produce some answers to the many questions.

The grieving woman disclosed that her daughter’s phone was still in the possession of the police.

“The police still doing their thing as a matter of fact,” she said, adding that she was called in a few times for questioning.

And according to Merlene, she never got to speak to the driver of the vehicle, 50-year-old David Charles.

She now passes her time at home, since she lost her job as a security guard, and she added that once she has completed her chores, she turns to God “for His guiding spirit through this storm.”

It is not easy, she said, with having to meet her monthly bills, and with the thought of her daughter’s death looming over her head.

But she said that she has a forgiving heart, although she is still hoping that the truth will be known someday.

“Right now, I leave everything in the Lord’s hands from the time it

Merlene Shortte is still in search of answers to questions surrounding the death of her daughter.

Kiara Shortte had only recently graduated from secondary school when she met her death.

“She (Kiara) is the one who will bring something from school for my birthday, hug me, kiss me, say “I love you.” happened to this hour,” Friends help her by she said.

But it will be difficult sending messages that help to keep her strong, this Sunday, Merlene said, when she celebrates she said.

“I getting myself in her birthday. order,” she added. (DD)

Approach to agriculture must change THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE is forcing stakeholders here to take a different approach to the way agricultural produce and food, for that matter, are handled.

Raymond Ryan, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, addressed the situation last Friday, October 14, at the opening of a World Food Day Exhibition, at the area of Car Park next to the Post Office, Kingstown.

Ryan pointed to small-scale operators as being the hardest hit by higher temperatures and weather related disasters.

“Without converted action to build resilience, many of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable inhabitants will struggle to generate enough food and income to feed themselves and their families,” Ryan stressed.

Notwithstanding, Ryan pointed to the importance of food security as being necessary and fundamental for social and economic development.

“Agricultural sector-crops, livestock, forestry, fisheries,

and aquaculture can play a crucial role in addressing this complex challenge,” Ryan stated.

He noted that “sustainable agricultural practices,” done with regard to local conditions, must be carried out.

Ryan also noted that foreign aid to agriculture had ECGC, leading local manufacturing “showed a marked decline” in recent years. enterprise, displayed its wide product Family farming is one Chairman of the World way this shortfall can be Food Day Committee, Leroy circumvented, and if he gets his way, Back yard Gardening Jackson was pleased with the way the Ministries of Tourism, will be widespread.

Health, Sustainable Attention will have to be Development, Education, given to further National Mobistaion as well as diversification, and Ryan other entities, were working looked at arrowroot, banana, together. fruits, vegetables, cocoa, Renato Gumbs, Deputy fishing as pivotal in this Chief Agricultural Officer and regard.

Food and Agriculture Minister of National Organisation representative, Mobilisation Frederick urged Vincentians to use the Stephenson endorsed Ryan’s position, and stressed the need exhibition to promote their businesses, and seize the time for changes to food and “to make some money.” agriculture in relation to Chief Agricultural Officer changes in climate.

line.

Agricultural crops that can be grown in the backyard.

Ashley Caine urged persons to “work towards lessening the impact of climate change,” and advised, “Our collective future has a lot to do with what we do,” A number of agencies and small business operators and manufacturing concerns displayed material and Adding value to an agricultural wares highlighting their crop – passion fruit. services and production lines. the formal proceedings.

Cultural presentations were (WKA) part of the day’s activity, with presentations from schools and See Page 60 for more. individuals during and after

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4. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Law

Marijuana found in Court’s washroom A PLASTIC BAG containing a quantity of marijuana, a cellular phone and a lighter, was discovered in a public washroom in the building which houses the Serious Offences Court and the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, Wednesday morning.

Information is that a prisoner, Recardo McFee, who was taken before the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday to be sentenced on firearm and ammunition possession charges, asked police officers on duty there to allow him to use the washroom.

McFee was told that he could not use the washroom because there was no water at the time.

McFee, though, insisted that he wanted to use the washroom.

Instinctively, Police Constable 172 Ash decided to check the washroom and when he did, discovered the bag and its contents, behind the toilet tank.

Police secured the items, but nobody was charged.

Up to press time on

Wednesday, THE VINCENTIAN was unable to ascertain the weight of the marijuana.

It is not clear who had put the bag with the items in the washroom or why it was there. But it is believed that it might have been left there for someone to collect.

Recardo McFee, 29, and Martin ‘Jah Son’ James, 45, both labourers of Villa, are on remand, charged with the murder of tenmonth-old Mozarie Mozart Lee of Glen, and the attempted murder of his mother Shelly-Ann Durham and his father Mozart Lee. McFee’s sentencing on the firearm and ammunition charges, stemming from a police action at Rose Place, Kingstown, May 4, has been adjourned to next Wednesday, October 26.

COP calls for stronger partnership Investigations Department (CID) either in person or by telephone 456-1810; the COMMISSIONER OF POLICE (Ag.) Renold Hadaway is appealing to the public to continue and strengthen the Divisional commanders at Georgetown at 458-9560; South partnership with the police, in an effort to curb the Central (Calliaqua) - 457-5459; crime situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Central and the Grenadines “Security is everybody’s concern, so there is a 457-2282; and Western need for us to continue working together to ensure (Leeward) - 458-7331. Other that the peace and tranquility that law-abiding Commissioner contact numbers are 911 and Vincentians are accustomed to, are not further of Police (Ag) 457-1211.

Persons can also eroded by a minority who gravitates towards crime Renold and violence,” the top cop told THE VINCENTIAN speak to any senior officer in Hadaway person. during a recent interview. underscored the The Commissioner (Ag) He assured that the Royal St. Vincent and the need for the assured that the RSVGPF is Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) will do public’s seriously concerned about the everything in its power to guarantee the public’s cooperation current trend of the crime here, safety. But he stressed that the support and as borne out by the fact that the with the police cooperation of the public is critical in the fight in the effort to High Command continues to against crime, and urged citizens to communicate meet to discuss the trend, and to curb and with the police on issues relating to crime and combat crime in devise strategies to arrest the national security. situation.

SVG. Hadaway promised that every report will be He pointed out that several given utmost attention and will be addressed with strategies have been strict confidentiality.

The Commissioner admits he is aware that there implemented, and the organization continues to evaluate the impact of these strategies; but, given have been complaints by some members of the public, about instances in which confidentiality was the implications for security, and in order to safeguard the effectiveness of the operations, he did breached by some members of the constabulary. not disclose details of the strategies.

But he pointed out that when situations like But he hinted that they include foot and mobile those arise, persons must feel free to bring their patrols, both covert and overt, throughout the complaints to the High Command.

Hadaway advised that persons with information country, and a heightened police presence in areas that are prone to criminal activity. on criminal activity, could report it directly to any Up to Wednesday of this week, 23 of the 26 senior police officer, including members of the High homicides recorded so far this year were gunCommand. They could also contact the Criminal related.

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

When Bailey confronted Antoine and showed him the firearm, started earlier this year. he said, “You can’t charged me for that, you The prosecution’s find it in another man’s evidence revealed that yard.” the Layou man was In his defence, Antoine wanted by police in denied knowledge of the connection with a gun and ammunition. He firearm related offence. told the Court he ran On June 16 this year, because he was smoking the Rapid Response a marijuana cigarette, Unit (RRU) in Layou and he had a small bag received information containing marijuana, a that Antoine was in an lighter and a flashlight. area in Layou called He said, he threw away ‘Pasture’, and went in the bag containing the search of him. He was items while he was spotted sitting on the running. rail of a bridge.

He added that when As the officers, Bailey caught up with headed by Sergeant Dwayne Bailey, got close him, the officer searched the area, but didn’t find to him, he ran. Bailey the bag he threw away. and Police Constable York alighted the police But according to Antoine, vehicle and gave chase. Bailey found a gun about 68 feet away in a yard Antoine ran into a where there were yard and the officers plaintains and fig trees. pursued him.

Antoine was Antoine then ran in a represented by attorney circular direction. As a Grant Connell, while result Bailey went in Senior Prosecutor one direction and PC York went in another, as Adolphus Delpleche led the case for the they continued their prosecution. efforts to hold him.

Evidence was heard While running, from four police officers, Antoine was seen to including Bailey and throw a firearm over a York. fence into a yard.

A Magistrate has the Bailey went over the power to impose a fence and retrieved the penalty of up to seven weapon after he was years in prison for alerted by York as to firearm or ammunition where Antoine had possession. thrown the gun.

Layou man jailed for gun, ammo A LAYOU man will spend the next five years behind bars for firearm and ammunition possession.

Barry Antoine was on Wednesday sentenced to

five years in prison for possession of a 9mm pistol without licence, and six months for having two rounds of ammunition.

The sentences, handed

down by Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, will run concurrently.

Antoine was found guilty at the conclusion of a trial which had

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 5.

Court

‘Nuts’ jailed for stealing from visitors high bushes. I tried to pursue them, calling out, ‘Please, please, don’t take the bags, just take the JEMARK ‘Parch Nuts’ Jackson, 23, has been sentenced cash’. By the time I made it over to where they were, to two years in prison, while his partners in crime, they were nowhere to be seen,” she related.

Terique Prince, 16, and a 13-year-old boy, were ordered The woman then made her way back to the beach. to receive 12 lashes each, with the cane, for stealing By that time, her husband he had gotten out of the EC$800 in cash and jewellery, from a couple visiting water and she told him what had happened. They from Canada. proceeded to a shop at the entrance to the beach, The value of the heists is said to be in an amount told the persons there what had happened, then of thousands of Canadian dollars, made a report to the police.

Prince was also bonded for two years. In breach of The trio were subsequently arrested. the bond, he will have to pay the Court $2,000 Some of the items, including the cellular phones, forthwith, with an alternative of six months in credit cards and passports, were recovered, but the prison. cash and the more expensive items, including the The three were all residents of Campden Park rings, and wristwatch were not recovered. when the offence was committed.

The Court also heard evidence from four other Magistrate Bertie Pompey handed down the prosecution witnesses, including a civilian and the penalties at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on investigator, Constable Josette Galley.

Tuesday.

Prince and the 13-year-old had pleaded guilty, while Jackson was found guilty at the conclusion of a trial on Tuesday. The trio had no legal representation.

Evidence presented by the prosecution at the trial showed that they had stolen the items from Richard Paulman of the United States and his wife Sandrina Paulman, a Vincentian who had been residing in Canada for several years. The couple was holidaying here and staying in an apartment at Campden Park.

They were scheduled to leave the country last Wednesday.

Sandrina told the Court that around 11 a.m. on October 16, she and her husband left the apartment and went to the Questelles beach. They left their bags with their belongings some distance from where they were bathing.

The items, included Sandrina’s engagement ring valued Canadian $22,000, her wedding band valued CD$1,100, a wristwatch valued CD$400 and other pieces of jewellery, along with two cellular phones, clothing and EC$800 in cash.

There were also credit cards, passports and other important documents among the items.

Sandrina recalled that around 12:30 p.m. she saw the three defendants on the beach speaking to each other, but could not hear what they were saying.

She pointed them out in Court on Tuesday when Prosecutor Station Sergeant Elgin Richards asked her if she had recognized them.

Sandrina recalled that while her husband was taking a swim, she saw the younger boy grab one of the bags, while the biggest boy grabbed the other bag and her husband’s pants.

“I ran out of the water and yelled at them saying, ‘Don’t take the bags, take the money’.

“They ran up to the far end of the beach into some

by HAYDN HUGGINS

In his defence, Jackson admitted that he was on the beach with the two boys when the offence was committed. But he denied that he removed the couple’s belongings, and pinned the blame on the boys. He called no witnesses to support his case.

Prosecutor Richards requested a custodial sentence for Jackson, noting that he was the leader of the gang, and was turning the two younger boys into criminals.

In handing down the penalties, Magistrate Pompey told Jackson that, based on the evidence, he recognized that the three offenders acted in a joint enterprise in the committal of the offence.

Pompey told Prince that he was old enough to be jailed, but the Magistrate opted not to impose a prison sentence on the teenager.

Jackson was out on bail on a charge of attempted murder when this offence was committed.

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6. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Kaylee is the top reader

by Gloriah…

The 8th Annual Courts Reading Competition concluded last Friday, October 14, with Kaylee Robertson of the Stubbs Government School walking away with the champion spot of first place, from a total of seven competitors.

Kaylee read her way to the top as she presented scripts in the two tested segments of narrative reading and news reading. Exuding a The top three readers - Champion Kaylee Robertson sturdy confidence, she (centre), second place Kaige Cruickshank (right) and approached her first third place Azaria Commissiong. passage entitled, ‘The received a trophy, $750. for herself, Stranger in the Garden’, with gusto. and a smart phone from FLOW. She She was later named winner of that also will read a news segment on NBC segment, with her treatment of the news reading segment being also well Radio.

Third place Azaria Commissiong of handled. She received the judges’ nod, the Windsor Primary School received a even as second place Kaige trophy, $500 and a phablet from Cruickshank won the news reading Courts. She will be given the chance segment, which was entitled, ‘Courts to read the news on WE FM Radio.

Throws Support Behind the 2016 The other competitors who graced Project Pink SVG Initiative’. the contest delivering presentations Chief Judge Mr. Andrew Bramble explained the competitors’ closeness at worthy of acclaim were Leah the end of the contest as, “a very tight” Millington, Spring Village Methodist; Jonniel Stowe, Lodge Village competition; a statement which came Government; Arianna Sterling, Mary as no surprise to members of the Hutchinson Primary; and Nyema audience. Mr. Bramble also lauded the standard of the competition calling Richardson, of the Belair Government School. it a “high” one.

Winnings Kaylee’s win secured for her first place a plaque; $2,000 for herself and $2,000 for her school. She also received gifts including a smart phone from FLOW, a Kindle Fire HD from the Searchlight Newspaper, and a laptop. She will be given the opportunity to read a segment of the news on SVG Television, and will travel to St. Kitts and Nevis to represent SVG in the regional leg of the contest.

Second place Kaige Cruickshank of the Kingstown Preparatory School

Remarks In remarks given by Manager of Courts, Mrs. Michelle Samuel and Senior Education Officer Primary Schools, Ms. Yvette Antoine, the importance of reading was borne out.

While Courts Manager, Mrs. Samuel paid attention to the role of the parents in children’s impetus and determination to read, SEO Antoine looked toward the role teachers play of dedicating time and effort into the production of good readers, as reflected in the competition.

Champion Kaylee Robertson (with plaque) joined in her moment of pride by her teachers and classmates.

V Continued progress in the midst of tough challenges

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 7.

Independence Feature

nations abroad, and supportive institutions and peoples regionally and globally, under the suzerainty of a blessed God. Despite our individual and collective sinfulness and shortT. VINCENT AND THE comings, Almighty God GRENADINES has been good and loving celebrates its thirty- to us. He has helped us seventh year of to overcome our independence on October limitations and realise a 27, 2016. Over these past host of our possibilities.

37 years, our nation has Morning by morning new made significant sociomercies we have seen economic and and received; and all that technological progress, we need, His hand has despite its small provided. Great is His geographic and population faithfulness! size, its relative scarcity of Today, therefore, we material resources, its are first of all grateful to extremely challenging a forgiving and loving external economic and God. Secondly, on behalf political environment, and of the entire nation, I its vulnerability to natural thank most sincerely disasters. Much everyone, of all walks of development has been life, at home and abroad, accomplished, but much Vincentians and nonstill remains to be done.

Vincentians alike, for the Our nation’s progress, contributions, however enhanced prosperity, small, that have been peace and socio-political made, and are being stability have been made, to our people’s achieved largely through upliftment. Our our own efforts at home, gratitude is immense and in concert with the it is heart-felt. considerate assistance of The Independence our diaspora, friendly which we celebrate on

MESSAGE FOR INDEPENDENCE 2016

BY DR. THE RALPH E. GONSALVES PRIME MINISTER OF ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

S

October 27, 2016, is essentially an independence which we caused to be restored to us 37 years ago through our nationalist struggles and negotiations with the departing colonial power, Britain. Over 200 years earlier, in 1763, consequent upon a carveup of several Caribbean territories by Britain and France at their Treaty of Paris, the independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, ___ then known as Yuremein or Youlou and the Begos ___ was taken away from our nation by the British colonisers, settlers, ad conquerors. So, on October 27, 1979, our political independence was repossessed by us.

It is that repossession of our independence that we now commemorate and celebrate.

Our population in 1773 was comprised mainly of the indigenous Callinago and Garifuna people. By 1979, the population’s composition was largely of African descent, in a multi-racial mix that included

descendants of Indian, Portuguese, and Anglo Saxons, and recent arrivants from the Middle East and elsewhere. That is still the integrated population mix today of a creolised Caribbean people.

History, migration, enslaved and free, and biology, have conspired to make us the globalised people we are.

In commemorating and celebrating our independence, we must avoid any debilitating chauvinism or narrow insular nationalism.

Contemporary St. Vincent and the Grenadines cannot isolate or cut itself off from our region or the world; indeed, it is absolutely impossible to be in any such pristine isolation. While being true to our patrimony and committed to our St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we must recognise that we are part of an authentic Caribbean civilisation and an integral member of our family of nations globally. Indeed, our

nation’s very small size imposes upon us an especial obligation to interface meaningfully with our region and the world, in the interest of our people’s development and upliftment.

This interface, among other things, touches and concerns social interactions, people-topeople contacts, political engagements, trade and economic relations, including the attraction of foreign direct investment, migration, and technological advancements. In the process of this manysided interface, our approaches will necessarily contain elements of resistance, embrace, and accommodation to this or that consideration or matter arising from the constellation of external forces so as to secure our national interest.

I restate these verities at this time because there is present in some discordant circles an infantile or ill-conceived aversion to things nonVincentian, and a wholly unrealistic devotion to an hermetic selfsufficiency. I reaffirm the necessity and desirability for St. Vincent and the Grenadines to build a modern, competitive, post-colonial economy which is at once national, regional and global. And we must train our people to think in these terms, to acquire the requisite skills for this modern political ecomony, and to interface confidently, in practice, with the region and the world. There is no other credible path to continued progress, prosperity, peace and socio-political stability.

Less than one year ago, in December 2015, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) was returned to government, in free and fair elections, for its fourth consecutive fiveyear term - an unprecedented achievement in terms of

majorities in both parliamentary seats secured and popular vote attained. Since December 2015, the ULP government has been very focussed in carrying out its Manifesto pledges, particularly in respect of job and wealth creation; the reduction of poverty and inequality; the consolidation and expansion of the education and health revolutions; the nearcompletion of the construction of the Argyle International Airport; the on-going preparatory work for port development and the city at Arnos Vale; the Geothermal Project; the tourism projects in Bequia, Canouan, Mayreau, Union Island, and on mainland St. Vincent, including Mt. Wynne-Peter’s Hope; the rebuilding of bridges and roads; the construction of sea and river defences; the expansion of telecoms; fiscal, financial and monetary stability, and low inflation; the pursuit of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including the battle against harmful climate change; and the deepening of political democracy.

One very worrying feature in our society is the unacceptably high incidence of violent crimes, particularly involving unlicensed firearms, committed by young men. While our people are overwhelmingly lawabiding and non-violent, a very small group of violent criminals are causing our nation and the affected families too much pain, loss, suffering, and insecurity.

My government is committed to reducing markedly, and eradicating, these gunrelated, and other, crimes of violence. This task, however, is not only for the government and the Police Force.

Continued on Page 15.

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8. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 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

The best day of all INDEPENDENCE DAY should be a ‘beautiful’ day because of its activities and its moments of pride. It should evoke feelings which are not aroused by any other occasion in the year.

Every year, on the anniversary of our independence, our prime ministers have given speeches in which we have been/are told of the many significant things which we should keep in mind: such as being a cooperative people, being kind towards our nation, and many other ‘good’ things which, if we follow, may just give our country a different position in the world.

After all, it is from people that a nation is born and, conversely, that because of them it can be broken.

It seems, however, given that the messages year in year out are characterised by a repetition of these calls, that we are miles away from creating a new position in the world for ourselves— a true nationhood of Vincentian people, proud of ourselves, our institutions, culture, politics, etc.

It should be that we celebrate our independence for two basic reasons: that it represents an official severing of ties with ‘Great Britain’, the former colonial master; but more significantly that it also represents our beliefs, our identity as citizens of a sovereign, open nation.

Spare a thought for the latter.

This time, moreso than any other time of the year, should be a period of reflection of the concept of what it means to be a citizen of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

It is as good a period in our current development as any, to reflect thus since, while many citizens are passionate for one reason or the other about our country, there is perhaps an equal number who are not so passionate — who cannot accept patriotism as a wholesale, no strings attached concept.

That, if the truth be told, represents a disconnection of the people which, if we are to be honest about what pervades in the land, would be hard-pressed to mend with any honesty.

But all is not lost. When we can dissolve the political bands which have separated rather than connected us, replace that worldly, manufactured pull, and assume the powers of the earth, we are set on the path of redemption.

What are those powers of the earth? They are the truths that should be self-evident but are seemingly not, e.g. all men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; among these are the right to life, freedom and a right to pursue a decent life for self and family. That, ‘there are no pigs who are ‘more equal’ than others’.

It is to secure these and other rights that Governments are created and instituted by man. It is from the people that governments are empowered.

If for any reason, citizens are deprived of these rights, or that a government becomes unmindful of these ends/rights, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new Government, reminding the replacement about the foundation on which its authority and purpose lie.

Yes, experience, (or is it history) has shown mankind is more disposed to suffer than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.

But when a long train of abuses and usurpations cloud the land, it is the people’s right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new guards for their future security.

Such has been the patient sufferance of the British Colonies, and such is the constraint that deflects them, altering their former Systems of Government.

This might not be your typical Independence reflection, but as we cut a path towards contributing to the furtherance of an authentic Caribbean Civilization, isn’t it also incumbent upon us to shake free of the constraints that inhibit us moving towards a jurisdiction that is not shaped by an imposed constitution?

There are some actions that are basic to our pursuit of genuine independence. Is it too much to ask for a revisiting of a constitution shaped and fashioned by our own hands?

Independence calls for new thinking NEXT WEEK THURSDAY marks the 37th anniversary of our “Independence” so called.

This week Friday celebrates the 81st birthday of the 1935 riots when the ex-slaves made their really first bid to give meaning to our emancipation. From these riots emerged George Mc Intosh as the national hero.

In 1951, Ebenezer Joshua burst on the scene, carrying the popular revolution further with social reforms and political advances; but he was unable to deliver the goods of Independence achieved in 1979 under Milton Cato. Paradoxically, Ebenezer Joshua was the hero who led his people to the gates of the promise land, but Milton Cato proved the biblical Joshua who completed the journey.

To re-enter contemporary times in SVG, it is most significant that Milton Cato ignored the 21st October, the 1935 date of the riot which the conservative classes saw in purely negative terms, to be avoided at all costs.

In fact, Cato claimed that he had in mind to select the 22nd day of January, which the British used to celebrate as SVG’s discovery date until it was abandoned for falsity with the exposure of historical research. But in any case, “Discovery Day” was ruled out by logistics and, treating the 21st of October accordingly as an official No-No, Cato ended up with the 27th October, which happened to be the birthday of Rene’ Baptiste, a veritable princess of Labour Party.

Ralph was initially opposed to Cato on solid ground, but characteristically turned around after capturing the Labour Party lock, stock and barrel in the early 1990s.

Now the Prime Minster, Ralph Gonsalves tried to goad the selection committee, now chaired by René Baptiste, to rubber stamp Cato’s selection as National Hero. But Jomo, among other “old guard” of Ralph’s MNU, are opposed tooth-and-nail to Cato’s ascendancy. So the selection committee has been stuck in neutral for 14 years.

In fact, the ULP Government has held on tenaciously to a policy of honouring, at every level, only its members, supporters or adherents.

As recent as Leopold Anthony’s funeral, Ralph had called for his official honouring.

But what about Alphonso Dennie, an old and ailing ex-teacher stalwart who had served as a Minister of Education, albeit in a nonLabour government?

It was given out recently that a dozen or so persons have recently been appointed as J.P’s, partly to assist with identification of persons registering to vote. One can only hope the Government choose more wisely than, say, in cases of the Rev. Duff Walker

James O M (deceased) and Mr. Hugh Ragguette of masquerading fame!

On gaining power in 2001, the ULP seized with a savage vengeance on every man-Jack they could lay their hands on as having been appointed J.P by the outgoing NDP. The victims included George Howard of “Call that George” fame, Patrice Reddock, teacher Urcelline Phillips, Garvin Seymour, Alston Lewis, Sylvanus Joseph, Superintendent of Police Wendel Wright, and above all, Yvonne Francis-Gibson who had been President of the Teachers Union during the famous Teachers’ march, Head of the Women’s Desk, member of Parliament and Minister of Education.

But the case of Alexis Griffith said it all.

He had been left over by the defeated NDP regime to serve the ULP appointed PSC, until the expiration of the official life of that body. On the arrival of that, Griffith was peremptorily dropped and his JP promptly taken away.

So Mitchell stands out as the Prime Minister with best record in paying homage to the “political enemy”. Three examples would suffice; the major playing-field in Bequia was named after Clive Tannis; the Arnos Vale Airport after Ebenezer Joshua; and the Central hospital in the name of Milton Cato, posthumously.

So, it was not surprising to hear the militant NDPite Major Leacock recommending that the controversial Argyle Airport when finished, be named after Dr. Gonsalves, whose every fibre was involved in its coming to fruition.

But this sort of generosity and bigness of heart is in very short supply where the ruling ULP is concerned. A Secondary School was named after St Clair Dacon, who did not make any significant contribution to SVG as a whole. A sense of history would have suggested that it be named after the elder Hubert Daisley, not because he actually owned the lands at Carapan where the school is situated, but because of his role in education, the fact that he was titled one of the “Leaders of Thought” and had helped to spread the Garveyite teachings which partly informed the 1935 uprising.

Nor should Doris Mc Kie née Adams have a Resource Centre named after her, instead of Yvonne Francis Gibson.

Above all, where does Louis Straker fit in, with the Taiwanese picking on our Foreign Affairs Minister, demanding that a Resource Centre which they funded be named after him?

We do not seem to understand the meaning of independence after 37 years!

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 9.

Letters

Application for a job DEAR COMRADE PM, I know you are a man for the poor.

I know that you love Vincentians. I know that you’re a Vincy to your bone. I know all that about you and I have faith in you.

That is why, Comrade, I am applying to you for a job like what you gave Hans King.

I want a job like Hans because I could find better names than what Hans uses to call the fellows and supporters of the NDP. I want a job like Hans

because I could talk on radio just like he. I want a job like Hans because I think I am as qualified as he to work less than forty hours a week doing the business of the people, and get a salary twice what some hard-working teachers getting. In fact, I think I might be even smarter that Hans, because I’m certain I could figure out a way to do more work for the party, and get government to pay me even more.

You see, Comrade, I want a job

Heading for the harbour EDITOR’S NOTE: On request, we are pleased to reprint this peom by Josiah Bobb. It was first carried in THE VINCENTIAN of October 23, 2015.

I’m heading for the harbour, My ship is coming in, Soon we’ll be dropping anchor, Let there be a gathering crowd to cheer us in.

I’m heading for the harbour My sails are already trimmed, I can see your tender eyes within.

Like two lovely pearls an oyster newly shed, How nice to know they are your lovely eyes ahead, With flashes just like the harbour beacon light, Now I can see them clearly shining so bright, Oh! What joys untold they hold.

If you could only see the tears in mine, I’m trying hard to restrain and console myself, For soon the both of us will be intertwined.

And as if I can hear you whispering there along, Saying, “welcome my love” “come on in” “come home”, Your two breasts, were like marbles, now fully grown, Like two lovely balloons, inflated on their own.

Everything is fine, I make no request, Mother nature unfolds itself at its very best, With your composure and everlasting smile, I’ll journey to see you ten thousand miles.

Been a long time since I’ve seen you, Been such a long, long time, Oh! How I miss you really miss you, I’ve been slowly losing my mind.

I’m heading closer and closer to the harbour, I can smell your sweet perfume blowing in the wind, My vision is getting better and better, As the gathering crowd begin cheering us in, Down goes the ship’s anchor, Thank God we are in.

Josiah Bobb October 2015 St. Vincent and the Grenadines

like Hans where all I have to do is talk — say what you want to hear and drive away with taxpayers’ money.

I am available for an interview anytime you’re ready for me. I can be reached at: The Poor Home, Glen. Unfortunately, I have no telephone, but I promise you that I will buy one with my first salary.

Yours truly, Poor Man

No to Pokemon LIKE EVERYTHING else that comes on the scene every Monday morning in the USA, our young people have got caught up in a new video game called Pokemon.

Now, I am not going to say that I know a lot about the video games scene, but from what I have been reading, this Pokemon thing is a dangerous thing.

Apparently the game is about finding people and animals along certain routes, and getting rid of them. And this from what I understand, is set in a real life setting, so you could be led to look along a river for the crooks or even in a forest.

I understand that it can be downloaded to your computer, tablet and even your phone.

What disturbs me is that I read where persons have either injured themselves or their friends, and some have even been killed or killed themselves playing this game, if you can call it a game. I read where a young man walked off a cliff because the game told him Pokemon or some bandit was lurking ahead of him, but the only thing

ahead of him was a cliff.

Now tell me. Who in their right mind would invent a game that could create harm and even death?

Our children are ready to lap up everything they see on TV, and too many of us parents give in to their demands. They want a cell phone, they get it.

They want a tablet, they get it. They want Pokemon, they shouldn’t get it.

I appeal to all parents and adults, to check with their children to make sure they have not downloaded this dreadful game. Teachers too must make certain that their students are not downloading it on those computers the government has provided.

Charles

In agreement with ÂKillyÊ SO MR. EDITOR, I see that my friend “Killy” (Woodrow Williams) has added his voice to one of the issues affecting the development of sports back home. I have known this guy for some time. He was a junior to me at St. Martin’s Secondary School back in the glory days, and I recall that he was an outstanding athlete. And if I can remember well, you, Mr. Editor, considered him a very good student — especially in English language.

Now ‘Killy’ has been around athletics both home and abroad for some time now. He has not only competed locally and overseas, but he has seen it fit to become certified. Is he still scoring for cricket?

He must have seen all that the rest of the Caribbean has, and no doubt when he says that “SVG needs an athletic facility, not a stadium”, the man must know what he talking about.

I couldn’t help but latch on to one of the points he made in that article (See page 20 of THE VINCENTIAN of September 30, 2016.) That point had to do with what is happening with the stadiums in the other Caribbean countries.

According to ‘Killy’ they are underused, and he warned that it would be the same thing in SVG if we got a stadium.

On reflecting on that, I went back to those millions we spent to upgrade Arnos Vale so that we could host some warm-up matches for the World Cup in 2007. I think I heard we spent some $40 million. Have we had anything big there in terms of cricket since those millions were spent? How much does it cost a year to maintain that place?

I want to agree with ‘Killy’, and even though it might be putting words in his mouth, I want to say that if we build a stadium, it will be nothing but another ‘white elephant’. It will be a case of having to support the upkeep of something which will not bring any real returns.

To be honest, I think the issue of a stadium is way back on the burner, as far as the ULP government is concerned. Ces Mc Kie can say all that he wants to say to make himself sound good, but tell me: Do you think we can afford a stadium after we finish with the airport at Argyle?

‘Killy’, continue sharing your wisdom with the country. I know that you speak with a genuine concern and not one that is clouded by any political affiliation.

Garnet, N.Y.

Documenting our history & development THE CELEBRATION of the independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is usually a time for reflection and research. It is a good time to highlight those who are responsible for keeping us informed and providing sources of information.

In addition to the traditional books, the new cyber technology enables one to have information literally at one’s finger tips. Leaflets, pamphlets, newspapers and magazines are sources that also provide information.

In particular, the centennial magazines of the St. Vincent Grammar School, the Girls’ High School and more recently, the magazine compiled to mark the 175th anniversary of the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Calliaqua, are invaluable sources of local national information. These magazines are highly recommended for ready reference.

Happy 37th anniversary of independence on October 27, 2016, and our love and thanks to all of those who play a role in documenting, collecting, preserving and circulating various aspects of the history and development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

They keep the flame of knowledge burning, and inspire and motivate others positively. Continue the good work. Congratulations !!!

Cheryl Phills King

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 11.

Independence Feature

2016 Independence Message by Arnhim U. Eustace

Leader of the Opposition, Leader and President of the New Democratic Party (NDP)

her. This is the gist of what she told me: several weeks before she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Her doctor had decided to operate but WHEN I ARRIVED AT MY because she had not been OFFICE this morning, three able to raise all the funds people were waiting to see for her operation, the me. I will never forget my procedure had to be experience with one. She postponed for some weeks seemed to be a very because of lack of money. pleasant lady as I greeted She had sought donations

and when I met her, she was short by a mere $400.00 and her operation, rescheduled for the next day, was again being postponed. Just imagine that for herself and her family, the need for $400.00 could determine whether she lived or died. $400 is the difference between life and death in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

I assured her that she would not leave the office without the money. Her face lit up in relief. I hasten to add that if only the NDP’s National Health Insurance Programme had been put in place like we intended since 2001, she, and countless other Vincentians, would have been in a better position to deal with the inevitability of serious illness.

Five days earlier, three mothers were in my office again seeking assistance. Between them, they had 13 school-aged children.

None of these children

was at school that day because their parents could not afford transportation, books and food.

Never far from mind is the lady who visited my office lamenting her difficulty feeding her daughter. When I enquired whether the child was at school that day, she pointed to her slippers and explained that she could not attend because she needed the slippers to come see me that day.

Yet another approached me for money to buy an ointment for a little girl who had a massive protrusion from her neck.

She explained that the child had cancer and the tumor often pained her so the ointment would help. The child did not live long after.

I’m not trying to depress a nation on the day of its Independence; I am no harbinger of doom and gloom. But the greatness of a nation lies in its ability to care for its most vulnerable. As

unemployment grows, tourism declines, agriculture plummets, so too will the population of vulnerable Vincentians rise. And it needn’t be so.

We’ve forgotten that it once was so much better. That it can be again. That we deserve better. We’ve forgotten that we demanded social justice, and were admired in the OECS. That we were on a development path from which it genuinely seemed there was no turning back. That there was once “much to praise and little to fault” about St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

But St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we needn’t wax nostalgic about the good old days, or make excuses for the present bad ones. We can first recognize that we each owe it to one another to recover our nation’s greatness. Our church leaders can break their silence, our women can regroup and reignite the women’s movement,

our trade unions can show gravitas, our Chamber of Commerce can speak openly about the abysmal economy, our men can redefine responsible fatherhood, and our citizens generally can start demanding more and mobilizing; simply speaking out and up is revolutionary.

As we sing our national anthem on Independence Day, let us renew our pledge of our loyalty and love and our vow to keep SVG ever free.

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12. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Free postpaid for a lifetime

THE MONTH of October 2016 will be a great one for two Vincentians as they will be officially informed

by Digicel SVG that they will receive their postpaid subscriptions fee, FREE of cost for the remainder of

their lives, once they remain on a Digicel 4G Smartplan..

On September 14th 2016, Digicel SVG launched its ‘Refer a Friend and Win promotion’, which

required postpaid subscribers to refer a friend to sign up for any Digicel postpaid smartplan, and that subscriber, along with the friend (who signed up) would be eligible for

a chance to win FREE service from Digicel for a lifetime.

The promotion will come to an end on Wednesday October 26th, when a draw will be made to select one application of the new customer, on which the name of their referral is displayed.

Digicel’s Marketing Manager Danielle Cupid said the “Refer a Friend and Win” promotion is not only exciting and rewarding, but also serves as another demonstration of Digicel’s commitment to give back to Vincentians in very significant ways.

Cupid said the two lifetime winners will join the Digicel postpaid family who now enjoy cheaper calling rates, great savings, per second billing, free handset and great roaming plans.

She encouraged Vincentians to capitalize on the remaining days until October 26th to refer their family and friends to sign up for a Digicel postpaid plan,

and get a chance to have their subscriptions paid in full for a lifetime.

Meanwhile, Digicel SVG has officially launched Facebook Flex, a new service that allows all Digicel customers, both prepaid and postpaid, access to the popular social media siteFacebook without credit or a data plan.

A condensed version of Facebook- Facebook Flex allows customers to like, share and comment on posts, update their statuses and send and receive instant messages, without incurring data charges. However, to access premium content like photos and videos, customers will be given the option to use their current data allotment, activate a data plan or browse using Digicel’s PayGo service.

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14. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Independence message from Mr Ivan OÊNeal, Leader of SVG Green Party

Stop migrants from taking over our country INDEPENDENCE has given our people little, as we are still losing our country to white migrants. Under the current ULP regime, crown lands are still being sold to migrants from Canada, Europe and America.

There is no consultation with our people, and the land that is being sold off, is never offered to Vincentians.

This is gross abuse of power by the ULP regime.

Our country is being lost to migrants, and we are losing control of our nation. This is a serious wrongdoing that must be corrected soon, as these migrants, white in most cases, will push us to the ground and take over our country. Ownership of SVG is under serious threat by the presence of these migrants.

In September 2016, the ULP regime sold 36.7 acres of SVG’s crown lands in Mount Wynne and Peter’s Hope to

Canadians, at an outrageous, knock-down price of EC$5 per square foot. Vincentians, at home and in the Diaspora, were not been given an equal opportunity to buy the 36.7 acres of land in Mount Wynne and Peter’s Hope.

This is a wilful act of discrimination against Vincentians. It demonstrates clearly that we are under immense threat of losing control of SVG through the backdoor sale of crown lands.

The opposition NDP stated on 27 September 2016, that they do not approve of the sale of the lands at Mount Wynne and Peter’s Hope, saying the sale of crown lands is making our people second-class citizens in their country of birth. SVG Green Party fully endorses this stance taken by the NDP. The NDP needs to go further, though, and tell the

nation that if they get into government, they will reclaim all lands sold to foreigners under the unpatriotic ULP regime. A Green government would take back lands sold to foreigners in SVG and abolish the SVG Alien Land Holding Act. If foreigners want to set up business in SVG, they should lease land.

We need to ban the sale of land to foreigners immediately. Land sales to foreigners make it harder for the younger generation of Vincentians to buy land to build their own homes, and threaten our farmers and our food security. Singapore, Cuba, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand and many other countries have banned the sale of land to foreigners. SVG should do so too.

Independence was meant to give us more control of our country and provide security

for our people. However, since 1979, there has been a massive loss of land to foreigners, and a huge rise in poverty, squalor, destitution and dilapidation.

Take a good look at our country, and recognise that there is a positive correlation between the increase in land ownership by foreigners and the amount of power they exercise in SVG. These migrants are a major threat to our people, as the concessions they enjoy as per taxes, import duties, etc. perpetuate poverty and squalor in our country as the state finds difficulty in realising its recurrent incomes to provide basic services.

We are being pushed to the ground by this sale of our crown lands to foreigners. We must adopt a strategy to take back all lands sold to foreigners.

We need to move SVG

forward with free, high-quality education from pre-school to university, and create an economy driven by knowledge, for job and revenue creation and sustainable development.

Land sales to white migrants will not bring our people out of poverty or move our country forward.

May God save our country.

Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA Leader and co-founder of SVG Green Party

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 15.

News

Continued progress in the midst of tough challenges Continued from Page 7.

This matter concerns all of us. Thus, our homes, schools, churches, communities, and the media must be engaged in a focussed way in addressing this violent condition among this small group of criminal offenders and the circumstances which give rise to such violence.

Still, for all this, our country remains safe, and citizen security, through challenged, is sound. But we must nevertheless do much better in these and other respects.

To those of our citizens who are poor or indigent and those who are unemployed, I want you to know that you are especially on my mind daily. I hear the voices of pain and anguish of all those who are economically disadvantaged. Believe me when I say to you that every day I seek to implement policies and programmes to assist in the uplifting your lives and living conditions. I know that we have made progress in reducing poverty and indigence, but there is so much more to be done in these respects and for livelihoods to be sustained. Thus, the unveiling of the Zero Hunger Project and the ramping up of allied programmes for sustainable livelihoods. My government will continue to work for you especially.

At Independence 2016, I repeat the charge given to us in the Book of Micah: Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Happy Independence 2016!

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16. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Address to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to mark the 37th Anniversary of Independence

“Working together to build a new St. Vincent and the Grenadines” makes it even more perturbing.

It is against this backdrop that we THE MEN AND WOMEN of launched Operation this noble organisation, The TIFOS (Taking Illegal Royal St. Vincent and the Firearms off the Streets), Grenadines Police Force under the stewardship of and its Auxiliary Forces join outgoing Commissioner of The Challenges of with Vincentians at home, Police, Michael Charles. providing security abroad, and visitors to our Fortunately, the Police blessed land, in celebrating From a security were successful in our 37th Anniversary of perspective, we have been removing twelve (12) Independence. I salute this confronted by numerous firearms and a total of one milestone that we as a challenges. Citizens’ hundred and sixty-three nation have accomplished. security at times appears (163) rounds of It was one of our cultural to be threatened by the ammunition off the icons, Kenneth “Vibrating upsurge in gun-related streets, inclusive of one (1) Scakes” Alleyne who sang offences. This is one of our firearm recovered during with authority, major concerns, and I am Phase 1 of Operation “Independence is a Expanding the resource quite certain it is the same TIFOS. Currently, milestone in our march to for you. Reflecting on this Operation TIFOS is in the base prosperity, now St. Vincent very serious matter, we second phase, and already and the Grenadines have a Recently, we inducted should also be very one (1) firearm has been real nationality”. concerned that most of confiscated. twenty-four (24) new As a small developing As a blessed nation, our entrants into the ranks of these heinous crimes were nation, let us take a brief perpetrated by our young desire is to have a drastic this noble organisation, moment to reflect on our men in the age group of reduction in these violent deployed them across the past, to pay tribute to our various sections of the 12-35 years, particularly crimes. In keeping with many heroes who have this year’s independence Police Force, and assigned murders. These young sacrificed their lives in men seem to see no theme, “Working Together them subsequently to laying the foundation to alternative solution to to enhance National Kingtown, with the secure the freedom that resolving conflicts, other Pride”, I implore all particular focus of we enjoy today, and more reducing offences against than through the use of conscientious Vincentians often than not, the property- burglary, etc. firearms. to make a concerted effort freedom that some of us For the period under to work together to rid our Additionally, training for take for granted. They our officers continues review, statistics have blessed land from this have paved the way so unabated, and many of shown that we have scourge, in our attempt to that we can enjoy our lives our male and female recorded ninety-four (94) truly enhance national today and strive to carve officers have successfully offences involving the use pride. As Romans 2:13 out our future. of firearms. During the states “For not the hearers pursued tertiary level Let us, on this same period, we recorded of the law are just before studies in disciplines Independence Day, display relative to the services twenty-one (21) murders God, but the doers of the in all our affairs the law shall be justified.” It provided by the RSVGPF. being committed by importance of self-reliance At this juncture, I wish persons using firearms. goes beyond just hearing and self-determination.

This is of utmost concern or knowing the law; we to reiterate a call that I Independence permits us made in my first address to us, particularly when must actively obey the the opportunity to once one considers the fact that law. to members of the again dedicate ourselves Constabulary - a clarion firearms are not During the period to building a stronger and call to all Police Officers to manufactured here in St. under review, the Police more prosperous nation. It raise the standard of the Vincent and the Force was the recipient of was Sir Alexander Grenadines or within the four (4) new twin cabs quality of services Bustamante who stated wider Caribbean region. pick-up vehicles. rendered to the public, to many years ago, be more customer-friendly, These firearms are Evidently, these vehicles, “Independence means the to treat everyone with unlicensed firearms, which which were in great

by Mr. RENOLD HADAWAY, Commissioner of Police (Ag)

opportunity for us to frame our destiny and the need to rely on ourselves.”

As a people, we can truly say that we have framed our own destiny throughout these thirtyseven (37) years. Our leaders continue to build on the legacy of our forefathers. As an organisation, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and its Auxiliary Forces, is no exception. We have made great strides over the last year, despite our many challenges.

respect, and to be professional in their approach. A call was also made for us to appreciate that excellent customer service must be one of our primary objectives.

demand, will impact positively on our ability to respond in a timely manner to complaints from citizens across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Emphatically, we strive to deliver a more efficient and prompt response to citizens’ complaints, as we recognise the significance of delivering a professional service to all communities.

This we hope will drastically reduce the number of allegations made against our members.

People at the centre As the organ responsible for the maintenance of law and order, we recognise the significant role that the communities have to perform towards ensuring citizens’ security and a peaceful society.

Accordingly, the value of our plethora of community outreach programmes cannot be overlooked. We will continue to work towards fostering an even closer network with community organisations and other stakeholders, in our efforts to build safer communities, thus engendering positive social changes and an environment of collaboration and productivity.

Independence focuses on prosperity, productivity, love and working together as a people to make St Vincent and the Grenadines a better place for our children, grandchildren, and the future generations. Let us make a concerted effort to ensure that we give of our best consistently. I wish to assure the people of this blessed land that the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force and its Auxiliary Forces will give nothing short of our best, as we endeavour to serve our people with distinction.

This is not to say that we have not fallen short of this objective on several occasions. However, each time we do, you have highlighted our shortcomings, and we implore you to maintain this critical approach of our services. Continue to be the watchdogs so that we will capitalise and learn from our past mistakes, as the support from the communities is of utmost importance.

Vincentians, from all walks of life, we must all make it our responsibility to discourage criminal activities and lift up the weak, vulnerable and high-risk who, if left on their own, would fall

through the cracks.

As a society whose belief is founded on the principles of Christianity and the Supremacy of God, the Bible has instructed us in I Peter 2:13-17: “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king”.

We have much to celebrate, fellow citizens; we must not become complacent. We must continue to pursue our national agenda of national pride and prosperity for all. We must endeavour to marginalize all destructive forces of discord and impatience.

We have crossed many roads, walked many miles, jumped many hurdles, but we must persevere. The late ‘Rasum’ Shallow sang in his song ‘Perseverance’“...Fight on, never mind the sweat, you have to sweat to get, every good seed you sew brings a fruit wherever you plant it, perseverance and strength go together...” We have to build our resilience.

Finally, I exhort you to preserve and protect the instruments of our Independence. The Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and the Laws of our country are of paramount importance to our democracy. They must be accorded the greatest respect by all of us. We must obey our Laws. We must respect our Independence.

As a child, I remember singing the words “We are out to build a new St. Vincent, the future is in our hands.” Let us all work together towards building a better nation.

Do something to improve our country. Let us commit ourselves in an effort to enhance national pride.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 17.

Independence

GHS shares a Bountiful Harvest

students animatedly decorating boxes in which to present their donations of fruits, vegetables and other food items. The prefect body was busy producing a spectacular display on the lawn with a selection of the fruits and vegetables that the students had brought.

And in the Grimble Hall, teachers and students were making final preparations for the disbursement of harvest contributions to institutions such as the Vinsave Pre-School, the Thompson Home, the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, the Lewis Punnett Home and the School for Children With Special Needs..

Into one of the skits that could well The have been considered an exercise Harvest in ‘Edu-tainment; entertainment programme value. commenced

FRIDAY 14TH OCTOBER was a festive day at the St. Vincent Girls’ High School, as the school celebrated its annual Harvest.

The Harvest is a tradition at the school, the aim of which is to instill in students the practice of selfless giving, as they make food and monetary donations to deserving persons and organisations across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

As the start of the 2016 celebrations approached, classrooms were buzzing with

at 1:00 p.m., and featured the reading of the World Food Day Message, songs performed by different year groups, a dance, a skit and an appearance by the contestants in the Miss Heritage Pageant, scheduled to take place on October 28, 2016.

Mr. Casmus McLeod of the Ministry of Agriculture addressed the school and guests in attendance on the 2016 World Food Day theme, “Climate is Changing.

Food and Agriculture Must Too.”, and stressed the importance of environmental awareness and the benefits of eating healthy.

Every year, in addition to the food donations, each class contributes Harvest Pledges, accumulated from September to October through students’ individual sacrifice and fundraising. This year, the sum of the pledges was

The prefects did a display of selected fruits on the lawn.

Music instructor whipping up a rendition.

Inset: Reading the World Food Day message. $18, 083.60, exceeding the 2015 figure of $15, 429.85.

As she presented the

pledges to two recipients, Mrs. Andrea Bowman, the school’s Headmistress, expressed

her sincere gratitude to the students, and commended them on their generosity.

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

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20. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

President Tsai Ing-wen values relations with SVG AS HE HAD INDICATED before his departure, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves was accorded an audience with President Tsai Ing-wen, during his recent visit to Taiwan.

The October 11 meeting came as the two countries marked 35 years of diplomatic

relations, something that did not miss President Tsai Ing-wen, who, in recognizing same, described SVG as “Taiwan’s most loyal diplomatic ally in the Eastern Caribbean region”.

The President took the opportunity to congratulate Dr

Gonsalves on leading his Unity Labour Party to a fourth consecutive victory in the general elections of December 2015.

President Ing-wen also observed that the SVG delegation’s visit to coincide with National Day celebrations in Taiwan, demonstrated

the seriousness with which SVG values the relationship.

Of particular significance for Taiwan was, according to the President, SVG’s sustained support for Taiwan in its efforts to participate in the activities of United Nations specialized

agencies and other international bodies.

Reference was made to SVG’s annual support at the General Debate of the UN General Assembly, especially since 2001.

SVG’s support for Taiwan’s application for participation President Tsai Ing-wen and Prime in the Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves International during the latter’s recent visit to Civil Aviation Taiwan.

Organization (ICAO) was Engineering & also noted.

Taiwan’s assistance to Construction Company .

The fact that since SVG was reviewed, 2004, some 123 including that country’s Vincentian students have support for projects and benefited from study programmes in programmes in Taiwan, infrastructure, did not escape the agriculture, medical care, observation of the education, and culture.

President and her guest.

Specific reference was All in all, President made to Taiwan’s Tsai stressed that support for SVG’s largest Taiwan “highly values its infrastructure project diplomatic ties currently underway–the friendly and close cooperation Argyle International with SVG, and expressed Airport Project – in hope that bilateral particular the terminal relations will grow closer building constructed by and continue to flourish”.

Taiwan’s Overseas

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 21.

View

Encouraging our children to read

The world has changed

“Reading not only has tremendous power when it comes to fueling the development of all aspects of language ability; its importance to the entirety of a human life in this day and age really can’t be overstated.” – Sir Adam Beck (1857-1925). A politician and hydroelectricity advocate who founded keen interest in what was taking place the Hydro-Electric Power Commission of in other parts of the world. He believed that whenever he read a good book it Ontario. opened new horizons of knowledge. We can learn from his example.

THE SEARCHLIGHT FACEBOOK page Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014) recently portrayed the photograph of the reminds us that “Any book that helps a three local winners in the Courts OECS child to form a habit of reading, to make Reading Competition 2016: Kaylee reading one of his needs, is good for Robertson of the Stubbs Government School (first place), Kaige Cruickshank of him.” We need to encourage our wards the Kingstown Preparatory School (second to embrace the practice of reading broadly. This will expand their place), and Azaria Commissiong of the Windsor Primary School (third place). We knowledge base and areas of interest.

These reading children readily discover commend Courts for organising this new jewels of knowledge and pearls of competition. We also recognize the wisdom. This interest in reading can administrators and all those who were also be intensified when adults make responsible for coaching the children for the effort and exert the energy to read the event. Well done! to children.

There are service clubs that also Mary Ellen Chase (1888-1973), engage in such worthwhile reminds us that “There is no substitute competitions. It is especially for books in the life of a child.” This encouraging to see youth-based organisations such as the Leo Club and relatively brief statement is pregnant with wisdom. It underscores the the Rotaract Club as they engage in significance of reading. It beckons us to activities that encourage youngsters to consider providing our children with excel in mathematics, the sciences, spelling, and reading. This is especially good reading material that would ignite appreciated, as we become increasingly their varied interests. It is insufficient to simply teach them to read or aware of the distractions that are ever encourage them to do so; we have to present via the Internet and cable television. Responsible citizens need to provide them with suitable reading material. They need to be reading be very strategic and proactive in books and/or magazines that will invite designing programmes aimed at them to explore distant worlds and keeping children focused on activities that encourage academic excellence and stretch their imagination. They should be reading books that will encourage civic responsibility.

One of my colleagues in Trinidad and them to excel at all that is noble. It is so very important that we encourage Tobago recently shared some insights them to read books that will beckon with me in relation to a reading them not to lose hope when the trials of initiative that was started by some life appear to hit them on the blind side barber shops in the USA. She or force them off track. They can also subsequently directed me to an article that was written by Elsye Wanshel and benefit from reading books that invite them to show empathy and respect for entitled, “Barbershop Cuts Prices for those whose views are different to their Kids Who Read Aloud During own.

Appointments” Some of my most treasured gifts have (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/ba been books. I will forever value a book rbershop-michigan-discount-kids-readbooks_us_57fe5bffe4b0162c043921ca?sec that I received as a primary school child tion). The article describes how barbers attending the Kingstown Preparatory School — a prize for being the most in Michigan, Iowa, Texas, and Ohio provide $2.00 discounts to children who helpful boy in my class. I also treasure a book that my mother presented me read aloud while having their haircut. with that encouraged me to learn to The barbershop owners, parents, and type during the era when only girls did teachers have observed that this activity has resulted in several positive so. Some years ago, one of my benefits to the participants. Many have secretaries at East Caribbean Group of demonstrated increased self-confidence Companies presented me with a Christmas gift of a book about as they read aloud. In addition, it has outstanding fathers. I considered it been noticed that their reading invaluable. I greatly appreciated it comprehension improved as a result of when a cohort of students at the Arthur the reading exercise.

Hearing about this project caused me Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, to contemplate what ideas we can come University of the West Indies, presented me with a book in recognition for the up with in our developing Caribbean significant contribution I made to their nations to encourage our children to lives as I facilitated a course in strategic read, engage in science activities, management there. I once received a pursue careers in Mathematics, and so book that the leadership of the on. Parent Teachers Associations, Methodist Church in Arnos Vale service clubs, corporate entities, trade presented to me in appreciation of my unions, credit unions, and other taking the time to challenge their concerned citizens and groups should assembly several years ago. All of these seriously consider the positive impact that can be made if/when we encourage books have had a positive impact on my life, and still hold treasured positions in our children to excel in these areas of my study. Books can, and do, have a study. The time, effort, and finances invested in such activities will generate positive impact on the recipients.

This concluding paragraph provides tremendous benefits to the individuals testimony that books often make perfect involved and to our society at large. gifts; they ignite a valuable craving — History records that the 16th the passion for knowledge and the President of the United States of America, Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), desire to better our best efforts. We never set foot on foreign soil; his entire never really know which new horizons we open our children to when we life was spent in the United States of encourage them to read.

America. However, his passion for reading enabled him to learn about the Send comments, criticisms & developments of other nations and their suggestions to respective culture. His craving for julesferdinand@gmail.com reading encouraged him to develop a

“IT IS VERY NEARLY impossible, after all, to become an educated person in a country so distrustful of the independent mind.” From “They Can’t Turn Back” by James Baldwin ‘One percent of Americans received 95 percent of all the wealth created since the depression was officially pronounced as ended in 2009, while 90 percent of us become poorer. Every $1 billion of wealth created, the average US citizen gets one dollar. Globally, 85 individuals own more resources than half of the world’s population.’

The New Confessions of an Economic Hit Man, John Perkins.

We may all remember that the housing bubble burst in the United States in 2008. We may also know that this economic and financial crisis spread across the world like wildfire, and devastated the international economy. Millions of people were thrown into poverty as they lost their homes and jobs.

By the end of the Bush presidency and the beginning of President Obama’s second term, the US government issued more than $6 trillion dollars, reduced its interest rates to near zero in an attempt to save the US economy and the international system. Most of this money was offered to big companies and corporations that were said to be too big to fail.

It is instructive that President Obama took the decision not to bring criminal prosecution against any of the ‘banksters’, fraudsters and corporate executives, who, because of their greed, destroyed the lives of millions of people in the USA and across the world.

Three years ago, Eric Holder went back to his old law firm Covington and Burling for the handsome fee of $75 million. His replacement, Loretta Lynch, has also decided not to try criminals in corporate offices. A few weeks ago, Wells Fargo boss John Stumpf retired in ‘disgrace.’ The bank announced that it had reached a $185 million settlement with regulators for its illegal sales practices. Employees opened more than 2 million accounts without customers’ permission. The former employees opened these unauthorized accounts to meet the sales quotas imposed by the company.

In 2014, Barclays, Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase and the Royal Bank of Scotland pleaded guilty to rigging the price of foreign currencies. They were fined $2.5 billion. A year later these same banks, along with UBS, were again fined $2.8 billion. US Attorney General Loretta Lynch described the banks foreign currency scheme as ‘a brazen display collusion and foreign exchange market rate manipulation.’

Yet, the authorities refused to go after the criminals who caused so much heartbreak and pain. Not a single person has been arrested, tried or convicted, even though there was ample evidence against them. In some of the email and chat room conversations captured by the US Attorney General office, the ‘banksters’ openly described themselves as ‘cartel, bandit club and mafia.’ No arrest, no trial. It is quite apparent that the moneyed class can do anything: conspire, collude, and engage in fraud as well as unfair competitive practices in the quest for profit.

However, there is a deep-seated cynicism and deceitfulness about the

(Pt 2)

US authorities and AG Loretta Lynch, Her office returned an indictment that sent shock waves around the world. Trinidad Jack Warner and FIFA president Seth Blatter were forced to resign from FIFA. The US authorities are attempting to have Jack Warner extradited. FBI agents have been to our shores and across the Caribbean to interrogate persons engaged in corrupt practices. It is clear to see that those who are hunted and jailed are not part of the corporate elite. Place the media glare on the soccer and sports and away from the board rooms.

While there is corporate greed and diversion, the real problems of the people remain. However, it is cynically covered over by the nonreflective claim that we are making progress. Of course we are, but which progressive can sit back and be satisfied with what we have? In the old days, the clarion call was ‘let those who labour hold the reins.’ In the tripartite arrangement between the state, the private sector and the workers, it is the workers who are made to give back and are let go.

Workers are the ones who made the sacrifice.

You don’t believe me? Check out these numbers: A recent OXFAM report revealed that almost half of the world’s wealth is now owned by just 1 percent of the population, and that 7 out of 10 persons live in countries where economic inequality has increased in the last 30 years. In an article titled “The death of International development,” Jason Hickel reminds us of the everincreasing ratio between the richest and the poorest countries. In 1973, the gap was around 44:1. Today it’s nearly 80:1. Inequality has reached such extremes that the richest 67 persons in the world have more wealth than the poorest 3.3 billion. A Poverty Review done by the World Bank in 2015 disclosed that 2.2 billion people still live in poverty.

Here is a statistic that must be of relevance to us. Over the last 3 decades, sixty of the world’s poorest countries have paid more than $550 billion in principal and interest on loans of $540 billion, yet they still owe a whopping $523 billion on those same loans. Most significantly, the cost of servicing these loans is more than these countries spend on health or education, and is 20 times the amount they receive annually in foreign aid. Is this aid or raid? Are international institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) friends or foes?

Therefore, you could scream all you want about the world has changed. Please do not expect me to embrace a change for the worse. Any progressive who settles for the status quo, becomes comfortable with his privileges, and occasionally references, the plight of the poor is engaging in glib talk. The task of the progressives then is to stay true to principles and expose those who want to pull the wool over the people’s eyes.

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

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24. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Message

The National Council of Women extends Congratulations to the Government and People of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on our 37th Anniversary of Independence N THIS OCCASION of the 37th anniversary of independence of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the National Council of Women wishes to extend warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Government and People of this blessed land. ‘May peace and justice there be found,… God bless our homeland and give us unity’.

What do we have to celebrate on the anniversary of our independence? An anniversary celebration should involve the telling of the country’s history, and a celebration of the people who have played special roles over the years.

Some persons are likely to be excited to tell stories of their personal experiences, while others may have some real insights on the history of the country and how they see it. But, anniversary also means taking a moment to speak about the future of our people, our nation and our country.

Independence celebration for many, would mean the wearing of the national colors in many fashions and designs; to some, it means another march through the streets of Kingstown and the viewing of the various uniformed organizations and military on parade. Whatever the significance of this 37th anniversary of Independence, let us take the opportunity to celebrate the culture, achievements and history of our country,

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and reflect on the role we perform in helping to foster and share solutions to the common challenges of our sister nations.

What is the role of women in nation building? The National Council of Women celebrates women and the girl child and their achievements; there are new scenarios and challenges that redefine the notion of “women and power”. According to an article from the 2010 Inter-American Year of Women, under the theme “Women and Power: for a world of equality “Women, as advocates, heads of households, workers, community and national leaders, political representatives, students, activist or entrepreneurs are contributing from different perspectives to the definition of political, economic and social agenda(s).” .. However, domination and discrimination are manifested in subtle forms of marginalization and violence which impede women’s capacity to present and defend alternative development agendas.

This is true not only in political and decision making spaces, but also in personal decision making spaces that are linked to women’s bodies, minds and life projects.

But, we highlight the demand for gender parity and equality, through the means of acknowledging and

incorporating the voices, needs and concerns of all women.

The principles enshrined in international and regional legal instruments on gender equality and women’s human rights, in particular the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and its Optional Protocol and the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence against Women (Belém do Pará Convention); The world is moving into a knowledge- base society, and the challenges we face in the future will be greater, We are losing our natural resources; it will no longer give us the ultimate advantage, therefore we need to be smarter and increase our knowledge.

I admonish women everywhere to be empowered, pay great attention to climate change and its impact on you.

I call on all Vincentians to be the very best that you can be, fulfill your greatest potential. Never look down on your brothers or sisters unless you are picking them up. End the spate of murder and violent abuse of our children; stop that heinous crime of rape and other sexual violence on our women and girls. Let us make them safe and secure in our homes, streets and communities. After all, they are the

nation’s future.

Every member of every community must assume this responsibility right now.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

–Thomas Jefferson May love inspire us all To pledge our hearts and join our hands In loyal service, great or small God bless our homeland And keep us ever free Happy 37th Anniversary of Independence, St. Vincent and the Grenadines!

Beverly Richards President National Council of Women

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OOCTOBER 21, 2016. 27.

Independence Feature

Message from the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies

Growing culture of divisiveness (Proverbs 16:28 NLT).

Why has our party politics become so divisive?

On the 37th HE COMMEMORATION of our national Anniversary of our Independence Independence provides a platform for celebrations, we are called to return to us to critically analyse the state of our the “ideal of civility in public discourse”. nation, and to challenge ourselves to strive Where is the art of persuading others to forward. A question that begs an urgent see our point of view? We can effectively answer is: “Why has our culture become so persuade others to see our perspective divisive?” through logic, science, humanitarian Divisiveness may serve the ends of a concerns and faith as truth. minority, but overall, it is evil and The Pentecostal Assemblies of the destructive. The timeless words of Jesus West Indies, St. Vincent and the are so apt. “If a kingdom be divided Grenadines District salutes this great among itself that kingdom cannot stand, nation on its attainment of its 37th year and if a house be divided against itself, of national Independence. We call for that house cannot stand”. (Mark 3:24, efforts towards national unity, 25) consequently arresting this growing The Apostle Paul adds to this culture of divisiveness. argument: “If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out as you will be destroyed by each other”. (Galatians 5:15 NIV). The current growing political divide can rip the soul of our nation and impede our national progress.

Sociologist James Davison in his book, ‘Culture Wars’, provides us an answer when he challenges us concerning the “ideal of civility in public discourse”. There seems to be a growing unwillingness among us to listen to opinions unlike our own. Healthy debate is becoming a thing of the past.

We need to pay attention to the language we use to describe those with whom we disagree.

We can be passionate in the expression of our disagreement with others without being maligning.

Perhaps the time is ripe to examine the tone of our language when we share differing views. This call includes parliamentary debates, interactive radio programmes and even religious discourses. The writer of the Book of Proverbs lends to this debate, “A trouble maker plants seeds of strife”

by Bishop SONNY E. WILLIAMS Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies St. Vincent and the Grenadines District

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30. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Understanding the changing Financial Environment: The Impact of Technology and increased Regulations ONCE AGAIN, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is recognizing the month of October as Financial Information Month (FIM). It would be remiss of me not to take advantage of this opportunity to commend the ECCB on their efforts to educate the general public on financial matters. As a practitioner in the financial sector, it is incumbent on me to contribute to this noble effort aimed at enhancing the public’s knowledge of finance, especially as our people grapple with an ever-changing financial environment.

Over the past several years, and more recently since the meltdown of the global financial system in 2008, we have

seen a shift in gear by the financial regulators, as they introduce new legislation aimed at ensuring the soundness and safety of the financial system.

Increased legislation and accompanying regulations as per the Anti-money Laundering, Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), a new Banking Act, increased capital requirements, etc., are all part and parcel of the changes in the regulatory framework geared towards engendering a safer and sound financial system. Depositors, on the other hand, are faced with increases in fees, requests from financial institutions for more information and

requirements for opening accounts and/or securing credit. All these changes are coming so rapidly that some financial institutions are so caught up with regulatory compliance, they fail to keep their customers, and by extension the general public, up to date with these changes and their implications.

Twenty-five years ago when I entered the financial sector, there was no requirement or documentation such as ID, proof of address or job letter to open a bank account. Also, withdrawing your cash required only your signature, with you being present, or your written instruction as allowing someone else to access

the account. Banking then was simple; financial institutions provided a safe place for persons to save their funds and a source of loans on which the institutions made a profit. Today, with the advancement in technology, including the internet, financial institutions can now offer more sophisticated products and services that allow customers to access their funds and transact business from any part of the world, at a faster rate and in more efficient manner. For example, a customer vacationing in the USA, can use a debit card to pay for his hotel room, while using online banking to pay all utility bills back home.

While technology has created new opportunities for financial institutions to serve their customers with better payment infrastructure, increased product offering and increased access to funds and market, it comes with increased challenges and risks, such as identity theft, internet security, more rigorous business continuity planning or your backup systems, staff capacity, etc.

Regulators have had to respond with new legislation, regulations

and increased supervision to safeguard the financial system while avoiding any systemic collapse.

Faced with these new risks, new challenges, and in the case of the indigenous banks, the added challenges of capital adequacy and the delisting of corresponding banking relationships, amplified costs and the pressure of more enhanced regulatory compliance, financial institutions collectively have failed in effectively communicating the impact of these issues to the general public and the wider economic landscape.

The ECCB month of activities will go a long way in helping to bridge the communication gap; however, more is needed to inculcate and engender a more financially literate public — one that understands these changes in the sector and the impact on their finances. For example, it is one thing to request a significant amount of information from customers as part of the due diligence process when opening an

account; but, on the other hand, to what extent have we explained to our customers that the increased due diligence is to ensure that the financial institutions comply with Anti Money Laundering, and FATCA regulations? Failing to comply with these regulations could result in massive fines and criminal penalties for both the institution and staff involved. There is also the possibility of losing corresponding banking relations and banking licence. These are real issues that are impacting the financial landscape, and having a more educated public could only help us in collectively navigating the challenges and mitigating risks more efficiently.

Cerlian Russell Senior Manager Business and Operations Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ltd.

V Message from the Embassy 32. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

of the Republic of Cuba:

„With Saint Vincent in the heart‰

HE CELEBRATION of Independence Day gives me a great opportunity to address St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a people united, proud of their roots, and convinced that a bright future is within reach of the intelligence, ingenuity and industriousness of its people.

With its relatively discrete land area and population, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an undisputed leader and an appreciated, heard voice among its Caribbean brothers, and in the Latin American continent in general.

An active member of CARICOM, OECS, ACS, Petro Caribe, ALBA-TCP and CELAC, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines currently holds the rotating presidency of COFCOR, has a high profile participation in the UN (where it is a member of ECOSOC), is a member of numerous specialized organisations, committees and conferences, and stands firm in its desire to opt for a position as a nonpermanent member of the Security Council of the UN. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is also a member of the

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Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77, of the Alliance of Small Island States and the ACP group of states.

The clear orientation to the South and especially the Caribbean, the vocation of Saint Vincent in favor of policies of social justice and inclusion, the extension of health coverage, education and culture, the struggle for economic, food, financial and energy sovereignty, for the preservation of the environment, sustainable development, peace and nuclear disarmament are elements that, over the years, have established Saint Vincent and the Grenadines at the international level.

Cuba and St. Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic relations 24 years ago, but the links between our two peoples already existed as part of a Caribbean community, united by endearing ties of blood as well as by culture, history and common destiny of our region and our continent.

Cuba will continue sharing with Saint Vincent and the Grenadines what it has, learning and accompanying the efforts of the dignified

Kingstown Anglican School gets gift ON MONDAY 10th October, 2016, the Kingstown Anglican School (KAS) became the recipient of a microwave oven.

This was donated by Miss Lorna Frank, a member of the Frank family that operated groceries in Kingstown proper and New Montrose during the 1960s — 1980s. She attended the school in

the late 1940s.

Miss Frank now resides in Canada.

Mrs. Lorette Mofford, Acting Headmistress, received the donation on behalf of the school.

This is not the first time that Ms. Frank has donated to the school.

In 2012, she donated a public address system to the school. That system is still in use today.

Vincentian people towards the achievement of the unity, and the integration of the Caribbean.

Our medical cooperation will not only continue but will be increased by 21 Cuban specialists who will provide their services in the Integral Diagnostic Center in Georgetown.

Cuba will continue providing scholarships of higher education for young Vincentians in various specialties.

Cuba is willing to continue working with St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the programme of application of HeberprotP against diabetic foot ulcers; Cuban specialists are willing to cooperate with programs of artificial insemination of cattle in SVG; and our specialists and skilled workers remain with their Vincentian brothers in the current phase of construction of the Argyle Airport, when what once seemed impossible today is a beautiful reality.

We congratulate Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on the occasion of the 37th anniversary of its independence, and we express to its government and to all its citizens, the best wishes of success, welfare and prosperity.

Vilma Reyes Valdespino Ambassador

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 33.

Arts

Dancers awarded in National Dance Fest

by GLORIAH…

weeks of competition, in a showcase of gold medal winners on Saturday, 8th THE 12TH KCCU National Dance Festival October, at the Peace Memorial Hall, Kingstown. culminated, after three consecutive Performances ranged from traditional folk and creative folk dance routines to modern, hip-hop/popular and social dance.

There were a number of multi-award winners on the night.

Ariel Fraser of the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School won awards for Most Versatile and Most Promising Dancer for Primary School Females.

La Tavia Daly was named Most Versatile and Most Promising Dancer for Junior Females in Community Groups; while Kyle Henry received awards for Most Versatile, Most Expressive, and Most Promising Dancer for Junior Males in Community Groups. Two Arabesque dancers, Jeanine Jeanine Knights, Most Knights and Kanille Brudy, Versatile Female Kanille Brudy, Most won awards for Most Senior Dancer, doing Expressive Male Senior Versatile, Most Expressive, a solo performance. dancer.

Arabesque Dance Company – Top Community dance troupe. and Most Promising Female and Male Dancers respectively, among the Seniors for Community Groups.

The St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School was adjudged the Most Outstanding Primary School; while the La Gracia Dance Company received the Most Outstanding Community Group Juniors Award, and the Arabesque Dance Company got the Most Outstanding Community Group Seniors Award. The Stephanine Browne Primary School was awarded for being the first and sole participant from the Grenadines; and the St. Vincent Grammar School, as a firsttime male participant.

The Festival, a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture, and the Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union, continued to provide avenues for dance expression among dancers within school and community groups. This year, a total of five new dance groups joined the festival: an allmale troupe from the St. Vincent Grammar School; the community groups, Gravity X and Dark Night and Trendy Gennaz; and a troupe from the Stephanie Browne Primary School in Union Island.

Barbadian Ms. Ariel Fraser, Most Promising Female Primary School Dancer, into a hip-hop routine.

Jennifer Sealey, who served as Adjudicator/Assessor for the Festival, recognized the festival for its purpose of exposing the talent of dancers from both schools and community groups, and revealed that in one regard, this country was ahead of her country, since there were no dance programmes in the schools in Barbados.

She described the routines on show as being generally spirited and energetic, and cited the Arabesque, La Gracia and Renaissance Dance Companies as the primary performers.

Having done so, she appealed to the choreographers of these troupes to “hold the hands of the choreographers of the weaker groups.” This, she encouraged, would only lift the overall standard of dance in SVG. The 13th KCCU National Dance Festival will take place in October of 2018. On the backs of an outstanding 12th edition, one could only anticipate a higher level of excellence in 2018.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 35.

News

Dr Honychurch donates book The Fighting Maroons of Dominica’, was published in 2014 to RENOWNED DOMINICAN historian, Dr. commemorate the 200th anniversary Lennox Honychurch, last week of the uprising of the Maroons in Wednesday donated a copy of his latest Dominica. publication to the National Archives and The book donation was made after Documentation Centre of St. Vincent and Dr. Honychurch made a presentation, the Grenadines.

‘Genocide, Loss of Land, Breach of The book, entitled ‘Negre Mawon: Treaties: The Kalinago Case in the

by GLORIAH…

VINVolunteers get going ST. VINCENT ELECTRICITY SERVICES LIMITED (VINLEC) continues to reach out to the youth of this country through its VINVolunteeers programme.

The VINVolunteeers initiative was launched earlier this year to encourage volunteerism across the Company.

Traditionally, VINLEC’s contributions to charities and organisations have been in the form of financial donations. Through the VINVolunteers initiative, the Company grants time for volunteers to work on projects, in addition to providing financial assistance.

On Thursday 13th October, the Company formally launched a project at the Bishop’s College Kingstown (BCK). Through this particular initiative, VINLEC will provide financial as well as moral support. A mentorship aspect of the programme will concentrate primarily on Form 3 students as they are at a crucial juncture in their lives, both academically and personally. BCK has three Form 3 classes, and VINLEC employees will meet the students from these classes on Thursday mornings, for the remainder of the

Mrs. Juliette Hinds-Wilson, VINLEC’s Manager, Finance, conducted the first mentorship session. academic year.

Last week Thursday’s session was done by Mrs. Juliette Hinds-Wilson, VINLEC’s Manager, Finance.

In addition to this, the VINVolunteeers initiative will provide support in the area of transportation for some disadvantaged students, and lunches for twelve children who require such assistance over the school year. There are nine employees involved in this project.

A number of other areas of interest have been identified, and in some cases preparatory work has commenced. These include projects at the West St. George Secondary School and the School for Children with Special Needs.

All of the initiatives are in keeping with the Company’s theme for 2016, “Our Community, Our People”.

Some of the students who were involved in the first mentorship session.

Reparations Struggle’, at the 3rd International Garifuna Conference, held at the Peace Memorial Hall, October 12.

He was part of a panel that presented on the broad theme of ‘Reparations and the Indigenous Cultural Experience’.

According to Dr. Honychurch, ‘Negre Mawon: The Fighting Maroons of Dominica’ deals with Dr. Lennox issues of the Kalinago people Honychurch and establishing Dominica, “like in the Jeon Adamscase of St. Vincent” where the Julien at a simple, mountainous, forested nature of informal handing the landscape provided refuge for over of the book. these peoples. whatever they “That refuge was not only for the needed for Kalinago people who were being their stripped from the other, more survival,” the accessible islands,” he said, “but also for African enslaved persons who were author expounded. escaping from other parts of the Dr. Eastern Caribbean.”

Honychurch’s This, he informed THE The book will be VINCENTIAN, formed the foundation book will be revised and renamed for what was later called the “Maroon revised next year to reflect in 2017. camps” in Dominica.

Dr. Honychurch believes that what what the author calls a “less derogatory name in will prove to be a point of interest in Negre Mawon,” and a broader scope this book is the outline of the ways within the issue. It will be renamed, how, after the British took over Dominica in 1763 and established the ‘The Forest of Freedom: The Fighting Maroons of Dominica’. plantation system, “the Kalinago Librarian Jeon Adams-Julien of the people provided the basis, the National Archives and Documentation foundation and also provided Centre accepted the donation on behalf information to the Africans on all of of the institution. the things - vegetation, wild life and

V Message from the Thusian Institute for Religious Liberty Inc. 36. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Independence Feature

Asserting liberty of conscience this Independence HE THUSIAN INSTITUTE FOR RELIGIOUS LIBERTY INC. (TIRL) warmly congratulates our people and country on the attainment of thirty- seven years of political Independence.

TIRL is a Human rights education services provider with a special emphasis on Liberty of Conscience - the supreme, untouchable Right. Join us in appreciating our Godgiven, inalienable, inviolable and constitutionally protected rights and freedoms which define us as human beings. This is what independence truly means.

We celebrate our God endowed Right to liberty of conscience, right to life

T

and right to private property, and the freedoms through which they are exercised namely: Freedom of thought, belief, opinion, conscience, choice, expression, speech and freedom of movement.

We are grateful to still have a constitution which protects Freedom of conscience. Section 9, subsection 1 of the Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines guarantees freedom of conscience, including thought, religion and freedom to practise (privately and publicly), propagate and to change one’s religion.

Yet, worldwide threats against liberty of conscience reveal persecutions of Christians and other

conscientious persons for believing according to the dictates of their consciences. Murderous Islamic groups, like ISIS, Boko Haram and the Taliban, continue to target Christians and religious and ethnic minorities, with beheadings, suicide bombings, kidnappings and rape. There is also an increase in anticonscience legislations and rulings such as the one in Belize surrounding the buggery law. These claim to provide so called ‘rights’ to special interest groups, while at the same time have the effect of persecuting others for exercising their Godgiven freedom of conscience. The agenda is to demoralize society and

force Christians and other conscientious persons to accept the unnatural and abominable behavior of Sodomy. This year in Iowa, U.S.A, that state seeks to control the content of church sermons and to censor what is said on topics such as homosexuality, same-sex “marriage”, and transgenderism. The church is also forced to make bathroom provisions for transgenders. Indeed, religious intolerance is growing. The Godinspired values of Republicanism (upholding liberty of conscience) are withering away in the United States of America and globally.

In S.V.G, an anti-

conscience Cyber-crime Act was passed on 12th August, despite the objections raised by our Institute and those of over 20 regional and international organizations. This law criminalizes the speakers of truth and freedom of conscience.

We urge Vincentians, to know your inalienable rights, value them, respect them, exercise them and defend them by the grace of God. As former president of the U.S.A John F. Kennedy reminds us, “The Rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God.” Government must not violate our God-given rights and freedoms.

They are inalienable, which means they do not

come from government, legislation, the will of the majority, human dignity nor from any special interest group. They come from God - The Creator, the Great Legislator of the Universe.

Long live and rule God-given rights and freedoms! Long live liberty of Conscience!

God bless you, SVG. Happy 37th Independence.

V A Christmas tradition:

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 47.

Diaspora

Barrels from abroad BEN HARRISON – International Correspondent

traditional Christmas barrels, boxes and crates, destined to reach St. Vincent and the Grenadines before THIS TIME OF YEAR, December 25th.

Vincentians and their friends and relatives living In the United in distant parts of the Kingdom, the USA, Canada and virtually world are busy shopping.

Shopping to gift wrap and throughout the world, pack thousands of special shipping agencies specialize in taking care Christmas gifts and foodstuff into boatloads of of the many details and

logistics of arranging everything, from delivery of the personal shipments to a local warehouse; trucking to the closest sea port; loading on an oceangoing freighter to offloading in Kingstown. In addition, there is the endless reams of export and import paperwork, such as customs declarations and clearing shipments through a local broker, who arranges pick-up or delivery to the consignee.

According to Ken Typical November scene at Toronto’s KLC Warehouse.

Chitole, President of KLC Shipping in Toronto, and Wayne Chrichton, President of Arabesque Inc. in Kingstown, the volume of barrel- shipping in 2016 is predicted to increase substantially. From early October, through early December, the Christmas shipping rush keeps Ken and Wayne and their staffs, working around the clock. From the Toronto warehouse alone, KLC ships upwards of 150 containers, each holding as many as 175 barrels, destined for preChristmas delivery.

Unfortunately, although most barrels arrive on time, in perfect condition, each year a number of families face frustration and disappointment over not receiving their barrels until into the New Year.

On behalf of KLC and his fellow shippers

throughout the Diaspora, Ken offers the following advice to everyone planning to ship barrels and packages to family and friends in time for Christmas: * Ship early: The earlier the better. (The very last shipment, barring any interference

by Mother Nature, such as storms at sea, will leave Toronto on or before December 1st, arriving in St. Vincent for clearance and delivery on December 17th). * Docu-ment all goods being shipped, and do not risk sending any prohibited or falsely described goods. * Pack all items carefully, especially anything that may be fragile. * If you do not use a barrel, be sure other containers are solid and secure. It is not unusual for a poorly wrapped

Ken Chitole, KLC Shipping- Toronto, advises those intending to send goods home to ship early. cardboard box to break open, scattering items on the warehouse floor.

Canadian customers can obtain further information by visiting the KLC website, www.klc.com or calling Toronto: 416-759-2736; Montreal: 514-400-5316 or St. Vincent: 784-4512167.

Let’s work together to make this Holiday Season one to remember.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 49.

Diaspora

Veteran journalist honors wife, sister VETERAN Caribbean journalist Nelson A. King on Sunday 9th October honored his wife, Dofflyn King, and his sister, Clarice King-Richards, at a gala event in Brooklyn, New York, celebrating his

Nelson King speaks as his sister, Clarice King-Richards, holds award.

(Photo Credit: Kevin Williams)

lifetime achievements.

King — THE VINCENTIAN’s United States Correspondent, who earlier this month was conferred a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, with specialization in international business, by Northcentral University (NCU) in San Diego, California — presented the awards before some 100 close friends, supporters, relatives, and community and political figures, at Glen’s Terrace on Avenue N in Brooklyn.

King — who has over 35 years of local, regional and international broadcast and print journalism experience — credited his wife and sister, along with his late parents, Jack and Beryl King, of Chateaubelair, among others, for his journalism, academic and other attainments.

In conferring the “Dedication and Support Award” on his wife, of 17 years, King praised her for her “exemplary role as a loving and exceptional wife,” and for her “unconditional and remarkable assistance and support” throughout their marriage.

“May the Almighty continue to bless us, and may our love shine perpetually!” reads the plaque about

the Kings, who worship at Fenimore Street United Methodist Church in Brooklyn.

King’s sister, who is two years and three months his senior, received the “Commitment and Devotion Award.”

“Presented to my dear sister, Clarice KingRichards, for your outstanding love, support and devotion in all times,” said King in Mrs. Dofflyn King receives award from her reading the words from husband, Nelson King, flanked by Lisa Derrick, the plaque. “May the Operations Director for New York State Almighty continue to Assemblywoman Haitian American Rodneyse bless you abundantly!”

Bichotte. (Photo Credit: Kevin Williams) King’s wife, a registered nurse, told their mother came to Kingstown in the patrons, to loud laughter, that she mid-1970s so, Nelson, a then student didn’t really need a plaque to know at the St. Vincent and the Grenadines how much he loves and appreciates Grammar School, could complete his her.

General Certificate of Education “There’s not a day that goes by that (G.C.E.) O’Level subjects — said she he doesn’t tell me how much he loves loved her brother immensely and was and appreciates me,” she said. grateful for the award.

King-Richards — who served “Thank you, brother, for this principally as the “home maker” in the award,” she said. “I will treasure it for King family in Chateaubelair, while the rest of my life.”

V SVGÊs turn for Legal Education Survey

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 51.

News

THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT funded Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice) Project continues its survey of legal education, with a visit to

SVG, October 21st to 23rd.

The survey interviews, to be conducted by the IMPACT Justice Consultants, Professor Jane Ching, Dr. Noel Watson and Dr. Adrian

Cummins, Q.C., are expected to involve the Attorney General, Minister of Education, the Bar Association and prominent attorneys-atlaw.

The Survey of Legal Education, which is now in its final phase, was suggested by the Council of Legal Education.

It is intended to consider the purpose of legal education, and revisit the “West Indian System” to see how thinking has changed since it was designed in the 1960s, and consider whether it is adequately meeting the needs of the region, particularly having regard to, inter alia: the current and projected demand for legal education and the need for the services of legally trained persons; the current arrangement for funding legal education and the scope for change, particularly taking into

account the prevailing and projected economic environment; the current system of admissions in the Council of Legal Education’s Law Schools and in the Faculties of Law of the University of the West Indies (UWI), University of Guyana (UG) and the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTECH); the extent to which information technology is being used to cut cost through the provision of online courses; and how well equipped are new practitioners graduating from the West Indian

System of Legal Education for practice in non-traditional areas of law.

The consultants have already visited The Bahamas, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, Dominica and St. Lucia to interview key stakeholders in these territories.

Following their assignment in SVG, the consultants head for Grenada (October 24th — 26th), Guyana (October 27th — 30th), Trinidad (October 31st — November 3rd ) and Belize (November 4th — 8th).

V

52. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

“Why have we become what we have become” WHEN ON OCTOBER 27TH of 2001 we heard Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves deliver his first Independence address to the nation, one could never have thought, that in less than ten years, he would have proven to be, by his action, traitor to the very noble ideals which he had pronounced with such eloquence on that historic day.

Some citizens who were impressed and had depended on him to carry this country forward, may now well be saying on reflection; “The con-artist had a platform and he used it effectively to launch his scheme”.

It will be difficult for anyone to find the material for a strong platform, from which they can effectively refute that charge. Here are some reasons why! I quote from page 4 of the document labelled ADDRESS TO THE NATION ON THE TWENTY SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE OF SVG by DR. THE HONOURABLE RALPH E GONSALVES “British colonialism has bequeathed to us the English Language and a core of political values centered on the rule of law, liberty, tolerance and competitive democracy; the ideas, ideals and practices of Christianity have forged a good, decent and ethical people who known instinctively the difference between right and wrong…………… and our cricketing culture has imbued us with a profound sense of fairness in which the batsman is given the benefit of the doubt”.

We should read that again, and note, the rule of law — liberty, tolerance and competitive democracy, Christianity, good, decent and ethical people, know the difference instinctively between right and wrong.

Indeed, that to a fair degree, described where St. Vincent and the Grenadines was in 2001, and it was on that foundation, we had hoped to build with enthusiasm and confidence, with the expectation that the next wave of citizens, would have inherited a land which offered them a reasonable chance of success.

It cannot be disputed, that Dr. Gonsalves and his team have crippled us in that area. They have not honoured their promises to revitalize the Banana Industry. Instead their failure in the area of Pests and Disease Control and the dismantling of the Banana Growers’ Association have brought the farming community to its knees. The promised rebuilding of the feeder roads has not yet begun. How sad!

On page 4, in the second paragraph he says, The obligation is placed upon us individually and collectively, to further enoble this civilization in all its dimensions……… we are one at home and abroad, to meet the challenges old and new, which confront us. We are a single people, under one God, destined to meet the vicissitudes of life, together now and forever”.

The foregoing, examined against the realities of the happenings of the years subsequent to this address, will no doubt be recognized as “hollow rhetoric”, and there is quite likely copious documentation of presentations of this type, on the basis of which, the biographers will present him (Dr. Gonsalves), as a man of superlative inconsistency and luminous selfcontradiction. He hardly represents the type of leader whom in the future we could depend on to further our best interests with honour.

The portion of the speech which is recorded on page five reads: “From our

twin beliefs in God’s supremacy and man’s freedom and dignity, have lowed other guiding propositions including the following ……………

1. We do not discriminate against persons on the basis of their sex, race, place of origin, political opinions, colour, creed or political association. We therefore ought to judge, promote or elevate people, on the basis of their abilities and the content of their character.

2. We desire that our society be so ordered as to express our recognition of the principles of democracy, free institutions, social justice and equality before the law.

3. We realize that the maintenance of human dignity presupposes safeguarding the rights of privacy, of family life, of property and the fostering of the pursuit of just economic rewards for labour.

4. We promote a civilized political discourse free of bitterness and political violence.

So, who we have become is partly a result of our collective history and partly because of our individual disposition or conduct”.

Let us look at some of these “other guiding propositions” set out in the address: 1. Can we truly say that over the last fifteen years, the happenings support the conclusion that there has been no discrimination against any persons because of their political opinions?

Has it not been documented that just after the elections of 2001, dozens of persons were dismissed from small jobs as watchmen and cleaners? Dr. Gonsalves had defended those dismissals, saying that they were merely an organized rotating of the scarce jobs; but there is no evidence that the rotation was completed.

Can it be truthfully said that it was always on the basis of their abilities and content of character, that persons were promoted or elevated?

2. In too many cases the behavior of our elected representatives has not reflected their desire to express recognition of the principle of democracy social justice and equality before the law. Marcus De Freitas, Leon Bigger Bigs Samuel and Mrs Herma Dennie the wife of the late Robert Dennie of Troumaca, are three decent, peaceful and law abiding citizens, and their names will always bring back memories of the injustices meted out to them by our administrators.

The matter of the denial of justice to Mr. Marcus De Freitas, is particularly ugly and painful. It will be remembered, that as a result of the acquisition of his property by Dr. Gonsalves government, Mr. De Freitas had had to reach to the Privy Council for justice. The Privy Council ruled that the Government must pay to Mr. De Freitas certain monies, but the government had refused to pay, and that was several years ago.

What sort of consciences guide us today that our leaders feel no remorse for their polluting of these principles of democracy, social justice, and equality before the law? Could the reason be, that when Dr. Gonsalves and Sir Vincent, had pledged to make the country ungovernable, they had indeed invoked some evil force which has now enveloped us in a shroud of blighted insensitivity, rendering our leadership incapable of responding to the needs of the people in a manner characterizing

“the decent and ethical people who know instinctively the difference between right and wrong”.

3. The fortifying of family life has long been recognized to be the golden thread in the fabric of cohesiveness which keeps the society strong, enabling it to overcome the vicissitudes of life. But to an unacceptable degree, for a nation which through the voice of its leader, declares that we are one people — “Together now and forever, the crippling of families is noticeable. This sad phenomenon has robbed us of some of our dedicated and committed citizens who have succumbed to the intrusive pressure, leaving to mourn their untimely end, relatives broken and defeated in spirit and emaciated in health.

I think here if Juanita Francois who was beloved by the listeners of 705 Radio, Shirley Francis who held a senior position in the Public Service, received an unjustified verbal blistering from someone of prominence, and it is felt that that hastened the death of the gentle lady. Recently we had the shocking loss of Kenny Baker, an economist who had been for quite some time a prominent player in the affairs of SVG. There is now the perception that he may well have been treacherously dealt with by fellow citizens who should have exhibited integrity and trustworthiness in the safeguarding of the family life of all other citizens.

The impact of this “wutless treachery” so devastated him, so

shriveled him, that he became several months before his death, hardly recognizable as the erect, quiet gentleman, exuding self-confidence, one used to meet on the streets of the capital occasionally.

Shame on all the rest of us who have facilitated or accommodated such miscreancy which now threatens to have us being known as the “Blighted Land”.

4. So in this year 2016, as we prepare to mark thirty-seven years as an independent nation, what we have actually become is partly a result of our collective insensitivity, indifference and docility and partly because of an individual’s disposition and conduct.

Certainly no one will attempt to say that our administrators have over the last fifteen years been keen in the promotion of a civilized political discourse, free of bitterness. There is ample documentation of the derogatory categorizing of decent productive and patriotic citizens who dared to be critical of aspects of the government’s approach which gave them cause for concern. Even former close friends and allies who had actively participated in the creation of the pathway to power are now, when they offer constructive critism, pronounced publicly to be, “wutless dutty dog”.

The place at which we are now, is not a good foundation on which we can build a prosperous nation. We have to change now!

Le Roy Providence

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 53.

News

MCTs assist correctional facilities THE MUSTIQUE CHARITABLE TRUSTS (MCTs) are supporting a skills training programme at the two correctional facilities in St Vincent. The Trusts were approached by Superintendent of Prisons Brenton Charles to strengthen the production of vetiver baskets and mats by the inmates and also to extend the training to a second correctional facility at Belle Isle.

This project follows on from a successful pilot project funded in 2015 by the Food and Agricultural (FAO) of the United Nations.

Launched in October 19, 2016 at the Kingstown

Mats made by inmates of H.M Prisons on display.

correctional facility, this project aims to reduce the number of repeat offenders, particularly among the 18 — 35 age group, by teaching income generating skills and entrepreneurship. This will also create a significant increase in access for vetiver products, which has declined in recent years. Traditionally vetiver was planted in St Vincent and the Grenadines to prevent erosion on banks and roadsides, but the practice has declined. This project will integrate conservation through environmentally sustainable handcraft Superintendent of Prisons production with a social Brenton Charles accepts cheque component. Vetiver grass from MCTs representatives. reaches its original height within four months of harvesting, and conducted to encourage its proximity to Belle Isle Penitentiary self-employment.

Funds derived from provides a plentiful, renewable product sales will resource for basket and mat making. provide the inmates Over the next year, participants, with an income to selected by expressed interest, will contribute to their receive 15 hours per week family’s welfare and training/instruction in the planting, support operational harvesting and handling of vetiver programme costs in grass and the construction of various the future. products. Experienced project coordinator, Ms Vonnie Roudette, and (Contributed) her team of trainers have already noted the enthusiasm and skill level of Inmate learning how the 17 participants who have just to plait ‘the grass’ started the training. from which the mats Entrepreneurship training will also be are made.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 55.

News

SVGTU issues advisory

health of staff, students and others who use the school.

According to the THE ST VINCENT AND THE content of the release, the GRENADINES Teachers’ Union has taken Union (SVGTU) has issued an advisory to its members, cognizance of the fact, giving rise to its advisory, urging them not to enter that very little if anything the Adelphi Secondary was done to effectively School building, until the address the matter, even authorities take action to after the Union had made address certain concerns. known the situation to In a release made the relevant authorities. public on Tuesday 18th From all reports, the October, the Union school is infested by expressed its alarm and termites, rodents, and extreme concern about mosquitoes. Its structure what it described as “the deteriorating conditions at is said to be in a state of decay and general the Adelphi Secondary School,” and called on “the disrepair.

Senator Julian Francis, Ministry of Education to Minister of Works, in take immediate action addressing the Union’s and implement the steps concern during his necessary to correct the Tuesday evening radio situation.” programme on Star FM, It is the contention of admitted that the the SVGTU that the Adelphi Secondary School situation at the school is unfit for use; that in its was untenable and gave the assurance that plans current state, it is a are afoot to address the threat to the safety and situation.

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56. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

And they are off on the 2016 edition of CIBC FirstCaribbean Walk for the Cure.

Walking for the cure ORGANIZERS OF THIS YEAR’S CIBC FirstCaribbean Walk for the Cure, staged last Saturday, October 15, have labeled the event a tremendous success.

A record number of walkers — estimated at more than 350 - turned out for the activity, which took them on a route from the Bank’s headquarters on Halifax Street, to

the Arnos Vale Roundabout, then back to the Bank’s Car Park, where they participated in warm-down activities, coordinated by the BE FIT MOVEMENT and other fitness groups.

The Walk had been postponed from the originally scheduled October 1 date, because of the passage of Tropical Storm Matthew.

This year’s proceeds from the Walk are slated to be handed over to Project Pink, which is dedicated to an awareness programme to combat breast cancer, and which, therefore, aligns itself with the purpose of the Walk, i.e. to raise funds for cancer awareness and treatment.

Jacintha Hinds, Chair of the CIBC First Caribbean Walk Committee, thanked partners FLOW, Going Places, Visa, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Quick Cash, Arabesque, Mustique Co. Ltd, Harmony Investments, ECGC / JU-C and Tus-T water, for making the event possible.

“We at CIBC FirstCaribbean would like to especially thank each and every person who came out and joined us on this walk.

“It shows that you are aware of what we are doing and why we are doing it, and it speaks volumes to the commitment that we (as a society) have for our fight against cancer.

“We thank you from the depths of our hearts, and hope that you would join us again next year as we strive to make Walk for the Cure 2017 bigger and greater, as we continue our fight against the dreaded disease,” Hinds said.

Walkers in St Vincent and the Grenadines as well as the other 16 CIBC FirstCaribbean markets, are hoping to raise over US $500,000 for cancer research, awareness and treatment.

Some going, some coming, but the over 350 walkers all made the required route.

V Grenada to hold referendum 58. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Regional

Grenadians will have their say on some pertinent constitutional amendments.

GRENADIANS will vote in a Constitutional referendum on Thursday 24th, 2016.

On that Day, dubbed Constitutional Referendum Day, Grenadians will vote for or against seven Bills, each on a different set of amendments, with each vote being cast separately.

In brief, Grenadines will be asked whether or not to amend their constitution so as to make the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) their final court of appeal for Grenada instead of the Privy Council.

Also in the mix is whether or not Grenadians want to have an Elections and Boundaries Commission comprising two members each from the government

and the main opposition, with an independent Chairman appointed by the Governor-General.

The Grenadian electorate will also be asked to support or not to support a constitutional amendment that will allow the GovernorGeneral to appoint a Leader of the Opposition from the party getting the second highest number of votes, if one party wins all the seats in general elections.

Also to be decided is the question of a fixed day and month after a fixed number of years, for the holding of general elections.

Up for consideration too, is a Bill to amend the Constitution that would allow a change to the name of the state from

Travellers from St. Vincent and the Grenadines remain dependent on LIAT for their air connections to the rest of the region.

LIAT issues warning FOLLOWING THE LEEWARD ISLANDS Airline Pilots Association (LIALPA) making good on its threat of going public with what it said was a number of concerns which LIAT’s management had failed to respond to, LIAT is taking no chances.

The regional air carrier has advised its passengers “to monitor electronic and print media, as the company holds ongoing discussions with the Leeward Islands Airline Pilots Association (LIALPA)”, this according to a report in the Antigua Observer of October 16.

The advice comes, it would appear, as LIAT’s management prepares for possible industrial action by the pilots — action that could well disrupt the airlines schedule.

Meanwhile, LIAT has also made it clear that it will not respond in public (i.e. through the media) on matters and concerns related to the pilots, which it said it has taken “all reasonable steps to address….. and keep the members of LIALPA informed of progress”.

Among concerns raised by LIALP was LIAT’s management stalling in releasing accounting information in respect of pilots’ Retirement Funds, the packed schedules, less meal breaks, unsatisfactory pay and the poor handling of breaches by pilots. (Source: Antigua Observer)

Grenada to “Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique”.

Last but not least, a decision is also being sought with respect to expanding the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, including: protecting

citizens under arrest; protection of intellectual property; protection for children generally, whether born in or out of wedlock; guarantee public funded education to all children under the age of 16 years and those with disabilities under the age

of 18 years; guarantee gender equality; establishing an enabling environment for persons who are physically, visually, aurally and or

mentally challenged.

Once two-thirds majority is secured in favour of each Bill, there will be amendments to the Constitution.

V Venezuela releases five T&T Muslims

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 59.

Regional

ALL THINGS BEING even, five Trinidadian Muslims who were imprisoned for two years and seven months in a high security jail in Venezuela, will be united with their families.

The five had been held on charges of suspicions of terrorist activities and espionage.

The five — Wade Charles, Dominic Pitilal, Asim Luqman, Andre Battersby and Leslie Daisley — were reportedly taken to court on Thursday and Friday before being released on Saturday, after being held snce March 19, 2014.

Also detained in March 2014, were the wives of three of the men along with eight children and three Imams.

Reports then said that they were detained at the Plaza Hotel in Sabana Grande, Caracas, where

they were staying while awaiting visas to undertake an Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

The wives and the children were the first to be allowed to return to Trinidad, while the Imams were freed after 45 days.

At a press conference held Saturday in Trinidad, Head of the Islamic Front, Umar Abdullah asked that the nation welcome the men home.

“This is what you can expect of a Muslim community when they return home,” he said.

Abdullah also called on the government to put measures in place to make it easier for them to reintegrate back into society.

It was Abulah who, in August this year, accused the Venezuelan authorities of inventing ways to prevent the return

Pierre officially replaces Anthony DR. KENNY ANTHONY has been officially replaced as leader of the opposition St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP).

In what some observers say was a foregone conclusion, former Deputy Prime Minister Phillip Pierre (right) replaced Dr. Phillip J Kenny Anthony (left) as leader of Pierre was the St. Lucia labour Party. (Photo elected Credit: stluciatimes.com) unopposed as the Leader at the party’s 2016 Conference of Delegates closing session on Sunday 9th October, according to St. Lucia Online News.

Pierre assumed the role of acting leader of SLP when Dr. Anthony offered his resignation as leader, following the party’s defeat in the June 2016 general election. Dr Anthony’s resignation had come days after the general election results were declared official.

Some observers had conjectured that Dr Anthony might also have considered resigning as MP for the Vieux Fort South constituency, after he won by a reduced margin in the 2016 general election.

Phillip Pierre is considered a stalwart of the party.

He has represented the Castries East constituency since 1997.

Other persons elected at the 2016 SLP Conference of Delegates were Alva Baptiste - first deputy political leader, and Shawn Edward taking - second deputy political leader. Both Baptiste and Edward are sitting members of parliament.

of the men, and (he) called on the government of Trinidad and Tobago to establish diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, to ensure that local Muslims did not have

to travel to Caracas in search of visas to attend the Hajj.

The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and a mandatory religious duty

for Muslims. (Source: CMC)

Umar Abdullah, head of the Islamic Front of Trinidad and Tobago, has been at the head of the effort to have the men released. (Photo Credit: tv6t&t. com)

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60. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

WINFA promotes local food on WFD AT THE RECENTLY concluded World Food Day Exhibition which was held on 14th October, 2016 at the Old Treasury Building Car Park, the Windward Islands Farmers Association (WINFA) took the opportunity to showcase how local produce can be

used to create desserts, which are not only tasty but also healthier.

The four featured crops were pumpkins, christophenes, sweet potatoes and arrowroot.

This year’s World Food Day theme, ‘Climate is changing; Food and

agriculture must too’, created a perfect medium for WINFA to promote its own theme of ‘Eating what we grow’.

The intent behind this endeavour was to promote and sensitize the public about how local agricultural commodities

can be utilized, in place of imported canned goods and other products.

Members of the public were treated to samples of prepared by Tenille Austin of Toni’s Delectable Creations, an upcoming pastry chef who currently works with WINFA.

WINFA employees at the World Food Day Exhibition on 14th October, 2016.

Persons appeared genuinely impressed with the quality, taste and neat display of the desserts presented at the booth.

The WINFA’s booth also had on exhibition a series of pro-biotic products that are currently being applied on a selection of demonstration farms.

The use of this type of fertilizer and pest treatment versus the nonorganic fertilizers helps to build crop resilience, provides protection against diseases, and helps to increase crop yields by providing the soil with an increased level of essential

nutrients.

The Pro-biotics project has already developed products that can be used to manage Trips and Leafspot in banana production, as well as fertilizers to enhance general soil fertility.

According to WINFA’s Coordinator, Mrs. Kozel Frazer, “The future of food and agriculture in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is hinged on our ability to turn the current climate challenges into opportunities, both for building more sustainable production systems and for employment creation in the sector”.

Focus on Climate Change THE METHODIST CHURCH HALL, Kingstown, was the venue for a National Workshop on Climate Change.

The October 12, 2016 activity was a joint effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture and the Windward Islands Farmers Association (WINFA), with the aim of highlighting the detrimental effects of Climate Change on Food and Agriculture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Participants included farmers from across the state and representatives of civil society groups.

Featured addresses were delivered by Kozel PetersFraser, Co-ordinator of WINFA, and Ashley Caine, Chief Agricultural Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry and Fisheries.

Following a colourful and vibrant performance from ‘Resistance Heartbeat Drummers’, which emphasized the importance of taking care of the environment, and the effects of global warming on food and agriculture, it was time for the major facilitators.

Consultants Tasheka Haynes and Marcus Richards then addressed the audience with facts regarding climate change.

“Climate change is a sustained fluctuation in temperature, from the norm, over an extended period of time,” Ms. Haynes explained.

She continued, “This is due to a higher concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, produced from burning fossil fuels. The CO² traps heat rather than allowing it to transmit out of the atmosphere, leading to warmer temperatures.”

Ms. Haynes listed the consequences of this global phenomenon as inclusive of: migration of foreign species — which upsets the ecosystem; less rainfall — which adversely affects crops and livestock; and higher temperatures — which allows parasites and diseases to thrive.

“We are only a small island that is heavily reliant on agriculture… . We must change our agriculture practices, in order to protect the livelihoods of our future generations,” Richards advised.

The event concluded after lively group discussions, which allowed the farmers to feedback their views on climate change and sustainability.

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62. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Tribute

St. Vincent and the Grenadines land of beauty

The loyalty of Josiah Bobb:

NB: Written to commemorate St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 18th year of Independence

Repayment in small measure

SVG land of beauty through mine eyes SVG thou treasured land of my birth Looking at you in reality You’re well into the bonds of maturity.

SYDNEY JOSIAH BOBB, poet extraordinaire, comedian, MC, and simply a man who seemed to carry a perpetual smile, passed away on September 28, 2016. He was 93 years old.

To say that Josiah, as he was fondly known, was a friend of THE VINCENTIAN is perhaps an

SVG your dimensions are small In comparing beauty you stand tall You are the most treasured gem of all.

We feel proud it’s your anniversary today To celebrate with you on your 18th birthday.

SVG thou treasured land, lead us into the 21st century And as we travel through time, may you lustrous soil continue to produce in abundancy.

God bless our farmers the mainspring of this fair country; We do not condemn foreign importers but we must support what we produce locally.

Tourism is part of our economy so let us build and encourage the trend Welcome all and if we treat each visitor as a friend They’ll return again and again.

SVG our treasured land of beauty, we watch you grow If we conserve your purity and beauty surely prosperity will follow We must first rid your soil of the Mealy bugs And protect our children and country against dangerous drugs We must form a solid base for diversification And have a constructive plan built on a solid foundation.

Unity is strength which is what we need With a bond of togetherness if we’re to succeed If we are united we are bound to succeed Bu choosing love not hatred and greed.

Let us pray for unemployment to diminish I appeal to our Government, the Opposition and other organizations To help ease the strain of these helpless unemployed teenagers Who are really feeling the pain.

How much longer must we watch them suffer?

Struggling to keep out of the filthy gutter.

As they try to uphold their pride and dignity with shattered reams We need a think tank to solve their problems.

While working for a fair day’s pay seem out of reach Their rainbow of drams must have a goal at the end.

In SVG our treasured land of many religions One sacred ideology should emerge When so ever we pray one God we serve.

SVG thou treasured land, we thank God for you and thank HIM well Cast out the devil and send Lucifer back to hell.

SVG though treasured land of a thousand dreams in which we live You’ve so much to offer yet in return so little w give.

We tale from your lustrous soil We so and reap without saying, ‘Thanks you’ without even a smile Today we give you thanks and celebrate with you our beloved homeland Peace, love and togetherness Happy Anniversary on your 18th year of Independence.

Josiah Bobb St. Vincent and the Grenadines October 1997

understatement. THE VINCENTIAN was Josiah’s first choice for publishing his poetry — poetry described by Ben Harrison, publisher of Josiah’s ‘Blades of Grass’, a collection of his poems, as being “honest, simple, and uncomplicated”.

As part of the 2nd Annual National Literary Fair 2013,the organizers of The University of the West Indies Open Campus SVG and the Vincentian Association of Artists Writers and Producers Inc. (VAAWP), recognised Josiah’s contribution to the literary Josiah Bobb accepting, with HIS trademark broad landscape of smile, his International Poet of the Year Award this country, from Deborah Dalrymple, Head of the UWI Open when they Campus.

bestowed upon him the title of International Poet of the Year in 2012.

His relationship with THE VINCENTIAN predated the 1982 takeover of the newspaper by Mr. Egerton Richards, whom Josiah counted among his dearest friends.

For his loyal support, we at THE VINCENTIAN will be hardpressed to repay him to the real value of his worth. We can, however, remember him through his work, and are pleased to reprint three of his poems on the theme of our country’s Independence, fittingly at this time of celebration of the 37th anniversary of that independence.

Happy anniversary SVG Independence NB: First published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday 22nd October, 2010.

I’ve sailed the seven seas Mellow in the tropic breeze At times there were moments of uncertainty But kept in touch with reality.

anniversary SVG we proudly stand With all the people in the land.

Your beauty no one can deny God surely didn’t pass you by.

Daily I scan the internet Got this urge to be a Vet Got no money on security Will my dream become a reality?

The world should build a hall of fame Where nations stand and thus proclaim That whether they be big or small Their goal be equal rights for all.

Our fore-fathers were African descent Taken into slavery without consent They fought for freedom paid the price With their sweat and blood and self-sacrifice.

Our flag we fly with boastful pride Proclaiming freedom far and wide A symbol for all the world to see St. Vincent’s not a colony.

Without selfish greed they fought for us to be free We must never again be taken into slavery Stay vigilant my people don’t be afraid Our freedom was the price our fore-parents paid.

No matter what it is a fact We worked and broke the camel’s back We set aside heartache and sorrow Fighting for a new tomorrow.

Stay focus and strong my brothers and sisters Though some may say they are no6t their brothers’’ keepers Be strong and keep on going on Tomorrow brings a brand new dawn.

It’s your civil right to monitor the trend This country is definitely yours to defend My sweet little island Home of the Blessed Happy Anniversary SVG from all of us, God Bless

Our land so beautiful and free Protected from hypocrisy Sometimes there’s trouble but most times peace With bountiful harvests and memorable feasts.

God bless our land So beautiful and sublime I am proud to be one of thine.

You know what ah mean?

Josiah Bobb St. Vincent and the Grenadines October 2010

Josiah Bobb From ‘Blades of Grass’ 2005 St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 63.

Arts

Miss Police Queen Show is back THE ONCE WELL PATRONIZED Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force’s Miss Police Queen and Calypso Monarch competitions return after a 15-year hiatus.

The Show is scheduled for November

Vying for the Miss Police Queen 2016 title are (from left) Renalda Solomon, Arianna Snagg, Enrica Akers, Leisa Baptiste, Kemelia Boyde, Nadisha Browne, Melissa Davis and Julianna Parris.

4th at the Russell’s Auditorium, Kingstown, and Inspector Trevor Bailey, a leading member of the show’s organizing committee, described the return as the RSVGPF effort to bridge the gap between the public and police..

“Over the years, the police have been seen as if our only function is to deal with crime and make arrests,” Insp.

Bailey said.

“We are hoping that we will be able to break down some barriers between the police and the public,” he added.

Bailey beamed when he said that there was tremendous hidden talent within the organization (Police Force), implying that the public would be more than satisfied with what is on offer at the Show.

Five officers will compete for Calypso Monarch title: Sgt Renwick Cato, Corporal Parnell Browne and PC’s Trevor Grant, Enkem Richards and Niquet Best. Notable absentee from this competition is police officer Zamfir ‘Man

Zangie’ Adams, the reigning National Calypso Monarch.

And eight will be looking to be crowned Miss Police Queen and for the opportunity to represent St Vincent and the Grenadines in a regional competition scheduled to be held in the British Virgin Islands, in March next year.

The eight are Nadisha Browne — Miss Central; Julianna Parris — Miss Eastern; Leisa Baptiste — Miss South Central; Melissa Davis — Miss Traffic; Arianna Snagg — Miss Grenadines; Kemelia Boyde — Miss CID, Renalda Solomon — Miss Port and Enrica Akers — Miss Western Division. (DD)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 65.

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66. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Yachtsman’s attackers granted bail

UP TO PRESS time Wednesday, THE VINCENTIAN was unable to confirm whether any one or both of the men granted bail in the sum of $40,000 and one surety, was/were

able to meet that requirement.

The two, Ezra Harry and Simeon Francois, both of Petit Bordel, were granted bail at the Serious Offences Court

on Monday, when they appeared to answer charges of theft, and attempted robbery, unlawful and malicious wounding of a yachtsman Andri

not object to bail, but he asked for suitable surety; that the men’s travel documents be surrendered; that they report twice a week to the Chateubelair Police Station; that stop orders be placed on them at all ports of exit in the state; and that they be placed Kholou.

Kholou while he was on on a 7 pm to 6am curfew.

Magistrate Rechanne The men were not his yacht anchored in the Browne granted required to plead given Chateaubelair Bay, Delpleche’s request. that they were indictable around 7:30pm, on Harry and Francois charges.

October 10. are due to reappear in The charges arose Senior Prosecutor court on January 27, from an attack on Mr. Adolphus Delpleche did 2017.

RSVGPF continues crackdown THE ROYAL SVG Police Force continues to crack down on cannabis cultivation, trafficking and use, amidst numerous calls for the decriminalization of the herb.

Last week Friday, Alexis Williams, a 42-year-old labourer of Chateaubelair, was arrested and charged with having in his possession, “553 grammes of cannabis”, with intent to supply it to another, at Chateaubelair on the same day of his arrest.

On Saturday, October 15, Anthony Dells, 28 years, of Trinidad and Tobago and residing at Kingstown Park, and Leslie Cummings, 50 years, Kingstown Park, both declaring themselves to be labourers, were arrested and charged jointly with having in their possession, “770 grammes of cannabis”, with intent to supply it to another, at Clare Valley on 15th October 2016.

That same day, Sheldon Latham, 32 years; Jimmy Latham, 40 years; Lesroy Paul, 45 years; and Duke Parsons, 48 years, each giving his occupation as labourer, and all of Mesopotamia, were arrested and charged jointly with having in their possession, “458 grammes of cannabis”, with intent to supply it to another, at Diamonds on 15th October 2016.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 67.

News

Police: No Flow imposters reports made THE POLICE said on Wednesday that they have no official report of persons posing as employees of telecommunication and internet provider Flow, to commit crimes.

Reports surfacing on social media indicated that two vans are transporting these imposters/bandits.

The report also noted that the bandits are using a cell phone number with the digits 319 to deceive persons into believing that they are coming to do updates on their devices.

When THE VINCENTIAN contacted the Public Relations and Complaints Department of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, Inspector Hawkins Nanton, Officer in Charge of the Department, said that “From the standpoint of the Public Relations and Complaints Department, there

has been no report.”

Hawkins did admit that he saw the post on social

media, but repeated that none of the stations (police) has reported anything. (KH)

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68. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

(L-R): Afisha Robinson and Lorne Holder of ECBI, presenting the cheque to Sheneequa Chambers and Roxell John of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College.

Lorne Holder, Sales & Promotion Supervisor – ECBI (left), presenting the cheque to Hance John of VINSA.

ECGC supports youth development The East Caribbean Group of Companies continued its outreach programme of assistance to youth development here, with two recent donations.

In one of two recent demonstrations of this commitment, the company made a financial donation to the Vincentian Students’ Association (VINSA), of the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.

The assistance will go towards VINSA’s Annual Week of Activities which coincides with the Independence Celebration in SVG. The Week of Activities is an effort to promote team spirit and build camaraderie among Vincentian students studying at the Cave Hill campus.

ECGC’s other recent donation was made to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s Physical Education and Sports programme.

The SVGCC has a renewed thrust to promote and encourage the development of talent through a series of sporting activities. These activities span a number of disciplines such as cricket, football, volleyball, track and field and netball.

ECGC’s donation targets the Inter Divisional Netball Competition, which is slated to kick off on 8 November and culminate on 25 November, 2016.

ECGC has a long and sustained record of playing an active role in the education and development of the youth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

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70. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Is Cave Hill on the decline?

by R. T. LUKE V. BROWNE October 2016 I ASK THIS QUESTION with a heavy heart after a conversation I had with someone who was on Campus in my time. She said to me bluntly: “Cave Hill is drying up.”

Unfortunately, this appears to be an accurate observation and a true reflection of reality.

Student numbers are dwindling, and there has

been a concomitant reduction in revenue with which to conduct the business of the University.

The phenomenon of falling numbers and revenue is one thing, but more than that is the fact that the Campus has also lost its regional integration essence.

There was a time when the Cave Hill Campus was alive with the sights and sounds of a vibrant Caribbean. It

was a hub of regional integration. Bursting at its seams with students from all over the West Indies. Buzzing with multicultural and interisland activity. Ablaze with the fire of life itself.

The Campus was a zone of free movement and a veritable microcosm of everything we wanted for Caribbean society. But things are not like that anymore.

It seems as if the

University’s contribution to a furtherance of regional integration is not a priority these days.

From all appearances, there has been a retreat from the noble and sensible intentions of the University’s founding fathers to pursue “One Caribbean.” Instead, a policy of fragmentation has been enthroned by the powers that be at the region’s flagship educational institution,

and our Caribbean Community is all the poorer for it.

I admit that I might be a little sentimental on this issue, being the product of a UWI-union.

My parents had six children, all of whom are also graduates of the University of the West Indies. There are many other UWI unions and relationships of one form or another, professional or otherwise. There can be no comprehension of the profoundly positive socio-cultural purpose that was served by this academic institution.

But so much has changed.

A seemingly innocuous decision can sometimes have farreaching implications.

Take for instance the narrow-minded decision to establish a law faculty at each Campus. As a result, there are now practically no Jamaicans at Cave Hill, to the point where the once vibrant Jamaican Students Association has been disbanded. How could this be in the region’s fundamental interest?

This was precisely what our forebears sought to avoid when they assigned certain specialties to particular Campuses — Medicine to Mona; Law to Cave Hill; and Engineering to St. Augustine.

The effective withdrawal of Jamaican students from Cave Hill has reduced the diversity on the Campus, and has greatly diminished the richness of the student experience. This is certainly not in the interest of healthy cultural exchange and ultimately regional integration with all its desirable spinoffs.

Moreover, the decision to establish separate law faculties at each campus has also led to staffing

problems. It is a sorry state of affairs when different Campuses within the same University are competing for lecturers. But this is precisely what happened.

The Jamaicans and Trinidadians who were teaching at Cave Hill returned home to take up more convenient posts in what was an Exodus of teaching staff of Mosaic proportions. To fill the void, Cave Hill resorted to recruiting lecturers from places as far away as Eastern Europe and Hong Kong, with suboptimal results.

The model envisioned by the pioneer leaders of yesteryear is quickly falling apart. Hopefully, something would be done soon to return this flagging symbol of regionalism to its former glory. We should always keep in mind that the integration element is an indispensible component of a UWI education which should be protected and preserved.

We do not pursue integration for its own sake. This is an existential question.

Integration is essential for the survival and optimum development of Caribbean society.

Integration brings economic benefits, jobs, and all sorts of opportunities. Through integration, the region may gain competitive strengths and advantages, and better deal with its problems.

That is why we place a premium on integration.

There are other aspects of Cave Hill affairs that deserve comment. I will reserve that for another place and another time. Suffice it to say here that as of this moment, Cave Hill is fast becoming a rundown shadow of its former self.

Modern edifices notwithstanding.

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) You should teach children some of your unique creative talents. New emotional connections can be made through business contacts. The danger of minor accidents will increase with the turmoil.

You will have a tendency to exaggerate, which will lead to major confrontations with loved ones.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Tell it like it is. Your ability to deal with others will help you in getting the support you need. Look into some personal changes. You can make some favorable changes to your looks.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) You should be setting up interviews or sending out your resume this week. It's time to re‐evaluate your own motives and make changes to yourself first.

Travel will stimulate your need to experience exciting new things. Avoid any intimate involvements with co‐ workers or employers.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Travel will be on your mind; however, be careful and proceed with caution as minor accidents will cause delays. Things may not be as harmonious as you would like with colleagues or employers this week. Don't press your luck with your loved ones. Family responsibilities are escalating.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Your ability to converse with charm will entice someone you may have had an interest in for some time now. You should be getting into self‐improvement projects. This may not be the day to get involved in risky joint financial ventures.

Don't vacillate about asking for assistance if you need it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Don't count on others to cover up for your shortcomings. Romance will be yours if you get out and do things in large groups. Someone you care about may not be too well. Arguments with employers or colleagues will be to your detriment.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) You will be extremely sentimental, and if pushed by others you may hold a lasting grudge. Use your high energy and dynamic approach to win favors from superiors. You might get behind if you spend too much time debating senseless issues. Don't overextend yourself in order to add luxury items to your entertainment center.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You could do extremely well in competitive sports events. Be prepared to overcome frustrations and obstacles at work. Do a little investigating if there is someone at work you don't trust. Make sure that you have covered yourself legally and try not to let your temper get out of hand.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Channel your energy into projects that will enhance your home. Do not allow colleagues to hinder your ambitions.

Don't waste this exciting day by sitting at home. This will not be the best day to try to push your ideas or concerns.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Make a point of working on yourself.

Business and emotional partnerships will run smoothly. Opportunities to make financial gains through investments look promising. You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Your mate is going to want and need some attention. Someone you live with will be quite unreason able this week.

Take a long look at your present direction and consider your professional options. It might be time to pick up the slack and do your share.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) This will be a great night to invite friend over to visit. Sign up for courses that will bring you more skills. This is not the best time to take a risk, to gamble or spend money you really can't afford to part with. Make changes that will heighten your appeal.

ACROSS

44. _‐ Dame 46. Owned 1.Couple apartment 5. Librarian’s 49. Leftover dish admonition 51. “Veep” 8. Toothpaste‐ channel accepting gp. (abbr.)

11. Killer whale 52. Repast 12. Anesthetized 54. Navy VIPs 14. Track circuit 58. Charged 15. Drab bird atom 16. Dr. 59. Short play Frankenstein’s 60. Bring up helper 61. Modern 17. Feasted (prefix) 18. Chasms 62. Raised 20. “__ Irish Rose” railways 22. Book report, 63. Visitor to e.g.

Slam 19. Onassis, for 25. Arnold short Palmer’s gp.

DOWN 21. Aromatic oil 26. Rescue worker 22. Chile’s (abbr.)

1.Comic strip neighbor 27. Rick’s love in word Biblical Minor 23.

“Casablanca” 2. Departure’s prophet 30. Didn’t win opposite 24. School gps.

34. Wander (abbr.)

25. Head 36. Cheerios grain 3. Cool cubes 28. Identifying 37. Silencing 4. Cookstove symbol button 5. Clip 29. Mineo or 38. Russia 6. Embraces Maglie between 7. “Managed 31. Expel 1917 and 1991 care” 32. Gang ending (abbr.) inits.

33. Pierre’s head 39. Happy feeling 8. Jai __ 35. TV’s talking 41. Dead __ 9. Go out with horse (2 wds.) against 10. Mimics Pulver’s rank 40.

42. Ike’s theater 13. Talk big

(abbr.)

43. Some turkeys 45. Author John 46. Lower jaw 47. Mitch Miller’s Instrument 48. “You mustn’t!”

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 71.

(2 wds.)

49. Greet 50. Heights (abbr.)

53. Get by 55. Trophy room 56. Chap 57. Spanish “Mrs.”

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72. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Women fall for the bait My wife looked at me and asked me if I meant it. She assumed so, and they continued for about another hour.

THIS PLACE is getting worse and worse in terms of When they were through, I asked them to get women cheating on their significant others. I have had to give advice to grieving and irate men who suffered at dressed and leave, and instructed my wife to leave with them. I had packed her things while she was the mercy of unrelenting ``big shots`` in this town, having her fun. who dangled money and more in the faces of their She has been calling me since, begging that I take women.

These women without thinking, grabbed the bait her back, but I’m not interested. I am now in New and end up either regretting and even destroy their York as I write, and will be filing for a divorce.

Please do not tell me to get counselling, because I relationships.

Little did I know that I was to get my own share. am not interested. I am done!

I walked in on my beloved wife of 10 years in the Regrets bed, which I built with my own hands, with three men! I had my hand on my hand gun which was in Dear Regrets, my pocket, but I just looked at them and advised them to continue doing what they were doing.

The pain you feel must be deep, and I am sorry it

Dear George,

has happened to you. You must be commended for showing great restraint.

If you wish to end your marriage, then that choice is yours; but I make one request of you: Revisit the situation when you are much calmer, before making the final decision.

Do not let this incident cause you to lose faith in women, but rather keep an open mind to future possibilities of meeting someone who would be faithful and true to you.

Within it all, you may be even able to forgive your wife and make a decision to mend what is now broken. Where there is life, there is always hope.

George

An unfair game Dear George, I DECIDED to venture into my own business when I was laid off from work. I had this excellent idea of opening a dress-making business, since I am very good with my hands that way. I told my girlfriend about my idea and she encouraged me. I just need about five thousand dollars more to start.

To my great surprise, my girlfriend jumped ahead, sourced start-up money, and started a business of her own and using my ideas. She too can sew.

I should tell you that we are both living in Barbados but are born Vincentians.

She is doing good business, and when I approached her with what she did, she just told me, “It’s just business.” That was the end of our friendship. I wish her well. I will see how long she lasts. All unfair games must play over. I hope she realizes that.

Broken trust Dear Broken trust, People who do terrible things to each other, do not realize that they are ultimately bringing harm unto themselves and their future generations.

The next time you have a business idea, keep it to yourself until you are up and running. Also you will do well to do the necessary registration of ideas, logos, etc. for your own protection.

Don’t worry too much about your friend. What you sow is what you will reap. Her days of reaping are yet ahead.

George

Tempted by an older woman Dear George, I AM TWENTY-EIGHT years-old, and I am constantly being bombarded by this woman who is sixty-two- years old. She tells me she is interested in younger men, and wants me to have a sexual relationship with her. I will be honest and say she does look very good for her age, and I am sure she is loaded with sexual experience; but I am thinking twice about this.

I have my girlfriend who is convinced that this woman is a mother figure to me, and is not in the least worried when I am seen with her. I have not been involved with her, but I am this close to falling to the temptation.

I am only wondering if it would be possible for me to just have a sexual relationship with her without doing any harm to my present relationship. I won’t mind the extra sex at all.

Tempted and about to fall Dear Tempted, This is the time when you ought to focus more on what you have and not what extra you can get. If you have a good thing going with your present girlfriend, it would be foolish to do anything to jeopardize it.

Leave that woman to find a man her own age or one who is free, single and disengaged, and who is willing to go back to the future.

George

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 73.

News

GECCU: The Education Credit Union

(L-R): Daniel Lewis received on behalf of his Daniela; Donna Joshua on behalf of daughter Kim, but Shadique Gill was there in person.

Inset: Kelvin Pompey, President of GECCU, has no intention of apologising for his Credit Union’s option in favour of education.

THE GENERAL EMPLOYEES COOPERATIVE Credit Union (GECCU) takes pride in the priority it places on education.

Kelvin Pompey, President of GECCU, emphasised this last Wednesday at GECCU’s Board Room, during a ceremony in which university bursaries were presented to three members - Shadique Gill, Daniela Lewis and Kim Joshua.

Pompey offered no apologies for GECCU’s drive for education.

“We recognise the importance of educating young people,” the President assured. He noted that the scholarships were complemented by loans, and ‘Learn While You Earn’ initiative.

Since 1982, students have been receiving scholarships and bursaries to secondary schools. Eighty students have benefitted at a cost of EC$2.5M. The investment increased in 2014 with scholarships to tertiary institutions.

Monica Browne, Programme Officer at the University of the West Indies Open Campus commended GECCU for their sincerity, and stressed the length to which the money will go towards reducing challenges students faced. She urged the recipients to

make good use of the support.

Kay Martin-Jack was welcomed as a ‘Sister’ in the Credit Union order, in the capacity as Senior Education Officer.

She looked at the session as a manifestation of the Credit Union philosophy: ‘People helping people.’

Mineva Glasgow, Chairperson of GECCU’s Scholarship Committee, confirmed GECCU’s decision in favour of education in her opening remarks. She cited the measure as a way of channelling youngsters towards the Credit Union and also for them to play a part in its development.

Shadique Gill responded on the recipients’ behalf. He expects to graduate in Business Management with a Marketing component, from the Monroe College, St. Lucia.

A former Brighton Methodist School, St. Vincent Grammar School, and Community College student, Gill works at the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Kim Joshua is into Communication Studies at the St. Augustine Campus. This is her second GECCU reward.

In 2001 she secured a GECCU scholarship to the Girls’ High School from which she moved on

to the Community College thence to employment at Professional Secretarial Services. Her mother Donna Joshua received the award on her behalf.

Daniel Lewis, father of Daniela Lewis of Campden Park, collected his daughter’s award.

She is into Information Technology studies also at St. Augustine.

74. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 75.

Sports

National Road Tennis champions decided TED ROBERTS Jr., Samantha Lynch and Sean Stanley emerged champions last Thursday evening, at the completion of the first ever National Road tennis Championships organised by the Department of Physical Education and Sports.

In a competitive final at the Arnos Vale Netball Complex, Roberts stopped Paulson Mack 21-18, 18-21, 2118, to win the male Under-18 division.

In the female open division, Lynch overcame Unica Velox, 21-16, 21-10, to champ that category, while Stanley outpointed Nimron Daniel, 21-17, 26-24, to win the male Junior winner- Ted open in a feisty Roberts Jr. encounter.

Before reaching the final, Lynch stopped Melissa Bellingy, 21-18, 16-21, 21-16 and Velox beat Kristina Christopher, 21-10, 21-10.

Stanley took care of Wally Mc Kie , 21- 10, 21-12, as the two squared off in the semi- finals, while Daniel beat the ambidextrous Lemus Christopher 21-16, 21-9 in the other semi-final.

The three winners will represent St Vincent and the Grenadines at the World Road Tennis Championships set for Barbados, 9th to 13th November, to be held at the Springer Memorial Secondary School’s auditorium.

At that World Championships, to be held under the theme ‘Road Tennis for All’, St Vincent and the Grenadines will face St Lucia, Jamaica, Guyana, and the USA and host Barbados.

Barbados has been credited for popularising the sport in the Caribbean. That island posseses a professional Road Tennis Association.

Such is the extent of the sport on the sports landscape in that country, that Mark ‘Venom’ Griffith last Saturday won a brand new Hyundai 110 as his prize for winning the Barbados Public Workers Union’s title.

Sean Stanley

Stanley and Daniel battling in the male open final.

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76. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Atlantic Cup cancellation disappoints netballers and heart-breaking, for after practising for several weeks now, we have to get this bad news.”

James, who was part of the last team which participated in the Americas Federation of Netball Associations (AFNA) Qualifiers in St Lucia, six years ago, believed that she and her teammates would have done well.

“I have confidence in this team… For sure we would have done well and get back up in the rankings,” James asserted.

Like James, others voiced their slumped emotions, pointing to the personal and financial sacrifices, as well as adjustments to their social and family life, made during the preparation phase for the tournament.

The St Maarten outing would have marked the return of durable goal shooter Skiddy Francis—Crick, who is a veteran of 27 years’ service A recent to the senior St Vincent and the Grenadines netball practice of the team. team with Francis- Crick was named Vice — Captain to Coach Nichole Vasha Adams, while other seasoned players making Sandy – the final cut were Kaylene Thompson and Rose Stephenson and Clair Hall, with the likes of Shannique De Shong, Maxine James Bownie Allicott, and Mary Ann Fredericks, adding in an animated their bit. conversation.

DISAPPOINTMENT etched on the faces of some senior St Vincent and the Grenadines netballers last Monday at the Kingstown Netball Centre, after they were told that they will no longer be part of the Atlantic Cup Tournament, which wasset for St Maarten this weekend.

The ten-member team, announced last week Thursday, was slated to depart today, Friday 21st October, for the Dutch territory, to embark on a series of matches as part of a ranking tournament.

Maxine James, one who was anxiously looking forward to the trip, in expressing her feelings said, “It is disappointing

Participants lap up Physical Literacy workshop THE GENERAL consensus coming out of last week’s two-day workshop on Physical Literacy, staged by Team Athletics SVG, as part of its Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) programme, was that it was worth the while.

Held last week Thursday and Friday at Frenches House in Kingstown, and designed at targeting coaches here, with facilitator Canadian Drew Mitchell, led twenty- eight participants through several areas, including, What is Physical Therapy, Why is Physical Therapy important, Physical Literacy, Literacy and Numeracy, along with Integrating Physical Literacy into programme.

Filled with a wealth of new knowledge on Physical Literacy, participants agreed that the topic should be taught at the earliest stage of youngsters’ development, as early as the pre- school level.

The resolution coming out of the discussion is that a cadre of persons between the ages of 18 and 30, should be trained to deliver the module on Physical Literacy across St Vincent and the Grenadines, especially to the schools.

Swim coach Rickydene Alexander, who was part of the workshop, lauded Mitchell for his style of delivery.

“It was very interactive which made the workshop very interesting throughout, and the knowledge gained we have to act now on it,” Alexander stated.

President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation Wayne Williams, who was one of four persons representing that organisation, noted that the workshop was timely.

“Physical Literacy goes beyond sports... It is about combating the national statistics which reveal alarms about non — communicable diseases,” Williams assessed.

He confirmed that while his organisation has been doing its bit with physical literacy, the time has come for them to step up.

Williams holds the view that with the implementation of a comprehensive Physical Literacy programme, St Vincent and the Grenadines can become a healthier nation.

The two-day workshop saw representation from a number of national associations, including Track and Field, Football, Basketball, Swimming, Taekwondo, along with Paralympics, Special Olympics, Department of Physical Education and Sports, the Youth Department.

Physical Literacy forms part of the Sports For Life effort, of which St Vincent and the Grenadines is among five other Caribbean territories- the Bahamas, Haiti, the British Virgin Islands, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago - which are part of the Long Term

Participants at the workshop on Physical Literacy Inset: Facilitator- Drew Mitchell.

Athletic Development (LTAD) pilot project.

It seeks to teach physical literacy from early childhood to the advanced years of life.

Zipporah Millington, Shannique De Shong, Vasha Adams and Kaylene Thompson.

But it would have been relatively new experiences for Zipporah Millington and Nerissa Delpesche, at the senior level. The two were also selected to travel.

Nichole Sandy- Stephenson was named as coach, with Thelma Foster- manager. Also listed to have travelled with the team was Diane Questelles, the Public Relations Officer of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association.

Reports are that the other intended participating teams in the Atlantic Cup opted out at the last moment, citing “ Financial constraints”, leaving St Vincent and the Grenadines and the host nation St Maarten as the only confirmed competitors.

St Vincent and the Grenadines has been out of the senior netball loop for six years, which has resulted in this country being without a ranking or a rating.

Following this country’s participation in the AFNA qualifiers in St Lucia, the Dellarice Duncan led executive, after indicating that SVG would have participated in the 2012 AFNA tournament in Trinidad and Tobago and the 2014 edition in Canada, reneged, which protracted the team’s inactivity.

In order for teams to earn points on the ranking table, they have to be engaged in a minimum of eight competitive matches during the period under review. Fewer than eight matches, the team will not receive a rating.

Furthermore, to have a ranking, a team must have played at least two matches versus a rated team.

At present, there are 35 ranked teams and 9 teams with ratings.

SVG represented at CANOC, CCCP workshop TECHNICAL Director of Team Athletics SVG — Chester Morgan was this country’s representative at a Caribbean Association of Olympic Committees (CANOC) / Caribbean Coaching Certification Programme (CCCP) Workshop, held in Tortola, the British Virgin Islands, from October 13 to 15.

Spanning twenty hours, the Training of Trainers workshop was designed to give coaches as well as sports leaders, a strong theoretical base to add to their practical abilities.

The workshop outline was divided into 10 Modules, under the following topics: The Role of the Coach, The Coach as a Leader, Developing Skills, Fitness, Nutrition, Safety, Injury and Recovery, Planning Training Sessions and Programmes, Event Planning and Management, Sport Not Drugs and Sport for Persons with Disabilities.

Assessing his involvement in the workshop, Morgan related: “Personally, it was one of the best workshops I have attended, because it trained us to help

Chester Morgan- SVG’s representative is pictured second from left standing, while facilitators – Dave Farmer is seated at left and Keith Joseph- second from right. coaches understand their roles”.

Morgan holds the view: “It’s the first course that everyone should go through before they think about coaching or doing any level one or grass roots programmes”.

He is recommending that the National Olympic Committees make such workshops available to community coaches, as well as those persons on the Youth Empowerment Service (YES) programme, especially in the primary schools.

Another of Morgan’s recommendations following his Tortola experience, is for Physical Education students enrolled at the

St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, to get such exposure in order for them to have an insight before they can become coaches.

Other countries represented at the workshop were Anguilla, Antigua, Aruba, Barbados, Bahamas, Caymans, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Guadeloupe, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname and host the British Virgin Islands.

Keith Joseph of St Vincent and the Grenadines and Barbadian Dave Farmer of the CANOC Academy Commission, were the facilitators of the three-day workshop.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 77.

Sports

Round Two

INTEREST will intensify for the second test featuring West Indies and Pakistan. The longer version got a timely injection with the tension stirred by the nearly fifth hour cliff hanger. But that was not to be, as Pakistan ended with a clearcut 56-run victory.

Younis Khan might still be rusty, having gone through an extended rest from dengue.

The speculation card could further be rampant as to what could have transpired with Younis in that first innings batting card. Pakistan’s 579 for 3 might have been achieved earlier and the West Indies faced with more daunting prospects.

Those are illusions, and reality can‘t be undone.

I harboured visions of a West Indies victory at the end of day four. Davendra Bishoo turns 31 November 6. Whatever happens till that day, Bishoo will take Sunday, October 16 as the most memorable one of his life. He achieved his best figures, 8 for 49, and capped his most dynamic match analysis of 10 for 174, to present the West Indies with a chance of pulling off what would have been the greatest heist in recent history.

Everyone, including the diehard supporters, would have been justified in believing that the West Indies would have been rolled over in two innings or around two hundred runs.

The first innings, 357, was commendable, in that the batsmen showed some level of commitment. Then came Bishoo’s magical performance.

But surviving a day in that part of the globe to draw a match, was far-fetched, much more overhauling the 346 set for victory.

The difference in innings totals and the impact of the contrasting scenarios must have stunned the Pakistanis, so they were more concerned about saving image. They had to salvage their pride at all costs.

From 95 for 2 overnight, hopes flickered.

Samuels’ dismissal first ball on the final morning altered the script and filled the Pakistani with a sense of relief.

Bravo entertained thoughts of an all-day vigil, only to be thwarted in the final period, with West Indies 83 short of the landmark. The West Indians fell for 289, which is their highest second innings score in that part of the globe.

Pundits have cited what a record-breaking accomplishment it would have been. West Indies perhaps showed their thoughts, while the Pakistanis shrouded theirs.

They might have adopted a bolder approach and go helter skelter for the win rather than considering the notion of a draw. That might have reversed the pressure and forced the Pakistanis onto more areas of misjudgement.

The dismissals by the run out route for the last two batsmen underlined our scramble.

It was a determined effort, by Bravo who showed depth of character which the team will do well to emulate. He will be encouraged to persist and evolve into the role of his mentor.

With the mannerisms and attributes in place, Bravo has to acquire another trait, and that is the match winning status that Lara proved to have possessed.

Lara’s 153 against Australia at Bridgetown and 212 at Sabina must be feats to which Bravo aspire. The opportunities exist with the series in progress. There must be support from the rest of the order. Each one to the number 11 must be prepared to battle it out for every run.

Greaves records first 2016 Masters century

MUSTIQUE MASTERS’ Felix Greaves is the first century-maker in this year’s SVG Masters T20 Cricket Competition.

Unfortunately his heroics were all for naught, as his Mustique Masters went under to Computec Belfongo, in a weekend game played in Mustique.

Mustique Masters put together a formidable opening innings and closed on 171 for 5 off 20 overs, with Greaves accounting for 102* of that total. Computec Belfongo, in a spirited but carefully crafted reply, reached 173 for 6 off 19.2 overs. Jecema Browne topscored with 63 not out. . Michael Charles took 2 for 30 and Victor Williams 2 for 32.

On the mainland, Rudy’s Electrical Barrouallie Masters defeated defe nding champions RSVG Police Masters by 5 runs. Rudy’s Electrical Barrouallie made 111 for 6 off 20 overs. Ashley Cordice led with 27 and Lenif Hector 24.

RSVG Police could only reach106 for 6 off 20 overs. Elmore Alexander topscored with 36.

Meanwhile Dawnley Joseph and Bill Edwards hit half centuries in victories for their respective teams.

Joseph hit an even 50 to help Stanley Browne’s Stubbs Masters 129 for 7 in its 20 overs against J G & Sons Glamorgan Masters, to which the latter replied with 109 for 9 off 20 overs, to go down by 20 runs.

Bill Edwards’ 63 helped Sion Hill Masters defeat RYB Challengers Masters by 82 runs.

Sion Hill Masters totaled 158 for 4 off 20 overs, to which Egerton Medford contributed 30 and Jose Carrington 28. Joseph Stephens bagged 3 for 21. RYB Challengers Masters labored in 20 overs to 76 for 9. Joseph Medford grabbed 4 for 7 and Bill Edwards 2 for 14.

Results in other weekend matches: Coreas Hazells North Leeward Masters, 121 for 6 off 16.1 overs, defeated Pastures Masters, 120 for 8 off 20. Ancil Hooper, Angus Curus and Walliston Stapleton each snared 2 wickets for North L:eeward, for whom Winston Skinner had a game high 32-run innings.

St.Vincent Cooperative Bank P’tani Masters disposed of Park Hill Masters by 33 runs.

P’tani Masters - 149 for 7 off 20 overs; Park Hill - 116 for 3 off 20 overs. Alston Ryan hit a game high 45 in a losing effort.

Marriaqua Masters handed Bequia Cricket Association an easy day’s work. Marriaqua - 85 for 4 off 15 overs (overs reduced due to a late start); Bequia, in unruffled manner eased to 89 for 4 in 11.3 overs.

North East Masters defeated Kirk DaSilva’s LaCroix Masters by 9 wickets.

LaCroix - 73 for 6 off 20 overs, Patrick Thomas 21; North East 77 for 1 off 7 overs. Deighton Butler topscored with 29.

Matches continue this weekend.

Dawnley Joseph hit 50 for Stubbs.

Bill Edwards stroked 63 for Sion Hill.

Flex Greaves – Masters 2016 first century maker.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Young basketballer heads out to Taiwan BRENDON SMART has headed out to Taiwan to attend the Chien Hsin University of Science and Technology.

Smart left the state on Tuesday for that Asian country, where he will be seeking to twin his basketball skills with his academics.

His opportunity was made possible through the instrumentality of Craiglee Sam, a native of Bequia, who was schooled in Taiwan and has since been elevated to coach status.

President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Basketball Federation- Wayne Williams lauded Sam for his efforts in opening up doors for his fellow Vincentians.

“Sam has to be given credit for all this,” Williams admitted.

Smart, for his part, has promised to make the best of his

opportunity as he sets off on a new pathway in his life.

The 6 foot 6 inches Smart hails from South Rivers, and can be considered to be multitalented, having represented St Vincent and the Grenadines at the Windward Islands schools’ games in both Basketball and Volleyball.

A former student of the George Stephens Senior Secondary School, Smart helped his school team cop titles at the annual volleyball and basketball competitions, as he too stashed personal accolades on many occasions.

Smart, who turned 21 last month, was part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Senior Men’s Volleyball team that participated in the World Championships qualifiers in Grenada, in August.

His efforts helped his team take second place in the group behind St Kitts and Nevis. He also copped the Best Blocker award at that World qualifier.

St Vincent and the Grenadines heads to the second round in 2017.

Brendon Smart (right) in company of President of the SVG Basketball Federation Wayne Williams last Tuesday at the ET Joshua airport.

78. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016. 79.

Classifieds

VILNA THERESA BAPTISTE

ANESTA CAROL VICTORY Streams of Power Church Sion Hill Tuesday 18th October, 2016 2:00 p.m.

MARY ELAINE LAMPKIN 6W -RVHSK¶V R.C Church Belle Vue Saturday 15th October 2016 Time: 2:00 p.m.

Layou S.D. Adventist Church Sunday 16th October, 2016 2:00 p.m.

ROBERTHA WILLIAMS Gomea Methodist Church Saturday 15th October, 2016 Time 3:00 p.m.

JOHN MATTHIAS LETT Faith & Life Pentecostal Church Chateaubelair Saturday 15th October, 2016 Time 3:00 p.m

ZINNA ROBERTHA BARBOUR better Known as Zinna Griffeth 6W 0DU\¶V Spiritual Baptist Church Spring Village Sunday 16th October, 2016 Time 2:00 p.m.

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

OCTOBER 21, 2016

VOLUME 110, No.42

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HUNT ON FOR ALLEGED SEXUAL PREDATOR according to the father of the minor involved in the matter, and newspaper reports from Antigua, had been allowed to leave the country.

The word quickly spread that the accused was a foreign national.

The issuing of the arrest warrant to the RSVGPF led many to conjecture that the accused might be a national of SVG and had, therefore, fled to his homeland.

Commissioner of Police (Ag) Renold Hadaway confirmed Renold Hadaway, on Wednesday that Commissioner of Police (Ag), assured that the local their investigations constabulary has mounted since receiving the arrest warrant had a search for the RPFAB turned up information officer. that the officer in question had been AS OF WEDNESDAY, press time, officers of the Royal sighted in at least two SVG Police Force were on locations.

Investigations had the hunt for an officer of already confirmed that the Royal Police Force of the officer had given his Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB), who is wanted in place of abode, on arrival in SVG, as Byrea.

Antigua and Barbuda in Checks in that connection with a sexual community did not turn molestation of a minor investigation, and who had up the officer, but reports there, according to the fled to this country. police, pointed to him The hunt follows the being in the RSVGPF’s receipt of an Questelles/Campden arrest warrant for the Antiguan officer, after it Park area.

Commissioner of became known that he,

Police (Ag) Hadaway confirmed that the undertaking to apprehend the accused was in full train, with an appropriately ranked officer appointed to head the effort.

Background Reports from Antigua and Barbuda said that the officer might never have been taken in for questioning, even after a report was filed by the father of the minor, on September 28.

The father is reported to have said in his report that the alleged perpetrator was known to the family, and had been visiting their home for several months.

The Public Relations Officer of the RPFAB, Senior Sergeant Frankie Thomas, did, however, confirm to the Antigua media, that investigators had subsequently executed several search warrants at the home the officer would have occupied.

Thomas revealed that a fact-finding investigation has been launched into the allegations, and several statements stating the alleged crime have also been recorded, and that

the issue will be treated as any other offence.

It took little time for the incident and subsequent developments to become a national issue in Antigua and Barbuda, with the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) calling on Prime Minister Gaston Browne to order a probe to determine how

the police officer was able to leave the country, ahead of an investigation into his alleged sexual misconduct.

A call was also made by the UPP for Commissioner of Police Wendell Robinson, a Vincentian national, to be suspended forthwith while the investigation is ensuing.

A call has been made for the suspension of Wendell Robinson, Commissioner of Police in Antigua & Barbuda.

Man shot dead at Diamond

THE NUMBER of homicides for the year rose to 26 by Wednesday afternoon, following the shooting death of 32-year-old Edward ‘Fox’ Estephane, which occurred sometime after 3pm Wednesday, in Diamond.

According to reports, Estaphane was shot at his home in Diamond, and was said to have received multiple gunshots about the body.

Estephane was known to be an avid basketball player though, Yet another fatal shooting was sources say, he gave up playing recorded here. regularly a few years ago.

The incident was the second And on October 11, 74-year-old shooting within a 24-hour period.

Errol Sutton was shot and killed The body of 19-year-old Kyron while making his way to the Stubbs Sylvester was found in his Suzuki Police Station.

Sidekick at his residence in Villa, It was reported that Sutton was with what appeared to be a gunshot attacked previously and was making wound to the head. his way to the Police to finish making A number of gun-related crimes a report, when he was shot and have occurred within the last week. killed. It was also reported that On October 7, a 10-month-old infant Sutton was killed following an was shot along with his mother and altercation over a parcel of land. father; the infant eventually Police investigations into these succumbed to the gunshot wounds at four killings are ongoing. the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

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

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.