THE VINCENTIAN PDF-24-04-20

FRIDAY APRIL 24,

2020

VOLUME 114, No.17

Mayreau water delayed Page 3

www.thevincentian.com

Reckless drivers penalized Page 4

St. Martin’s ELP Page 12

EC$1.50

Less Grenadians coming Page 13

Whyte vindicated Page 24

NO VINCY BOAT TURNED BACK TODAY reported.

But Edvin Martin, Grenada’s Acting Commissioner of Police, has described the news item as false.

“I want to state here that this is absolutely false. I have spent time speaking to the commanders of Carriacou and our coast guard in an effort to verify this issue over and over again. This is false and, again, I call on individuals to be a bit more responsible in how we treat social media and the posting of information,” Martin said in a virtual news Edvin Martin, Grenada’s Acting Commissioner of Police, told a virtual news conference on Monday that the news item carried the day before was totally false.

A NEWS ITEM carried in the Weekend edition of The NEW TODAY Newspaper in conference on Grenada, stating that the Grenada Coast Monday, according to Guard on Sunday turned back a boat from St. Vincent bringing supplies of food NOW Grenada (newspaper). and cooking gas to the people of Petite “And wherever Martinique, has been categorically there is an issue deemed to be false. involving the A source who is familiar with the actions of the incident, according to The NEW TODAY, had said that the Vincentian boat was stopped Right: Tobias Clement, short of landing in Petite Grenada’s Leader of Martinique. the Opposition, claimed There were no reports of that he had information warning shots being fired by that said goods from local coast guard personnel to SVG landed in Petite block the Vincentian boat, NEW Martinique.

Right: Colin John, SVG’s Commissioner of Police, also refuted the news item, after he had sought verification from Grenada.

RGPF. “Rumour or otherwise, I want to ask us, members of the public, and media houses, where appropriate, to please call for verification,” Martin added.

He disclosed that no representatives from the media house which published the news item had called to verify or seek further information about the alleged action of the coast guard.

“This is indeed sad, and I trust that it would be the last that we would have such an incident,” said Martin as he reiterated his call for journalists to be

more responsible in the use of social media and the posting of information.

Martin’s response preceded that of SVG’s Commissioner of Police Colin John who, in a release to the media on Monday, said that he had held talks with his Grenadian counterpart, Martin, and Brenton Cain, Commander of SVG Coast Guard on the matter, and that he was able to confirm, based on available information and intelligence, that no such incident occurred.

Opposition leader has his say Notwithstanding the vehement refuting of the incident by both Commissioners, Grenada’s newly appointed Opposition Leader Tobias Clement, said, according to The NEW TODAY, that he is “aware of the incident in which goods which Continued on Page 3.

V ÂWash yo Hands!Ê Where?

2. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Little Tokyo is perhaps the place in Kingstown where the largest single number of people gather at any one time.

“WASH YO HANDS” is the title of a recent release by renowned Vincentian performing/recording artiste Alston Becket Cyrus.

According to Becket, the recording is a remake of a song released TWENTY years ago but he considers the release to be timely, given the

A toilet bowl and tank (not one with the overhead tank)_ in a facility at the Windward Bus Terminal.

call to practise proper hygiene — washing your hands in particular - in this time of the coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic.

However, washing your hands might be the last thing you might be encouraged to do if you need to use certain Public Rest Rooms/Public Washroom Facilities in SVG, especially in Little Tokyo.

First of all, the smell is a deterrent.

Further, the equipment, for the most part, is not designed for public use; they seem to predate this century.

The Public Rest Room located in the vicinity of Corea’s Supermarket, Bay Street, is served by a

common male urinal which has a flow of water in a drain-like structure, while the toilet has an overhead tank, reminiscent of the ones in Richmond Hill School in the 1960s. And the odour emanating is as though it has been festering there back to that period.

In the area of the Windward Bus Terminal, close to Sharon’s Bar, the men’s facility A wash basin in a washroom facility at Little Tokyo. emits a similar odor. As expected, the equipment. affordability debate’. the high consumption of The wash basins, for Safeguarding the Hairoun Beer and example, are equipped health of the nation, Guinness in that popular with taps that can be combating the dreaded ‘Watering Hole’ and turned on and off by the COVID-19 disease — others, result in like back of the hand. should not be a question flavoured odour. The of dollars and cents.

The question of urinal consists of a adequate and functional To think and act as raised area and a gutter equipment in Public Rest though it is, is to put fitted with galvanized Rooms, especially in Becket’s advice — ‘Wash pipes, with holes through Kingstown, should not be Yo’ Hand’ - to spend. which water leaks with caught up in ‘an We can do better. total freedom.

But what is most disgusting and unhealthy are the hand-washing facilities, which are fitted with brass-like taps which must be turned off and on by use of the hands… a case of undoing what you have done. And then there is the wanton disregard for social distancing, awaiting turns to use the facility.

A pleasing contrast is presented by the washrooms at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex; not only in terms of their The male urinal in a facility at Little Tokyo. cleanliness, but more so

Taiwan donates COVID-related supplies OVER 40,000 SURGICAL MASKS have been donated to the Ministry of Health by the People and Government of the Republic of China on Taiwan.

The masks, the second such donation by Taiwan, were presented

by Taiwan’s Resident Ambassador to SVG H.E. Calvin Ho, to Minister of Health Luke Browne last Tuesday.

In his remarks at the handing over, Ambassador HO assured that the surgical masks were of high quality, and were similar to those used in Taiwan.

“It is an effective method of keeping the

virus (coronavirus) from spreading,” H.E Ho said.

The donation also included six thermoimaging devices used to measure body heat, and are usually effectively deployed at ports of entry and other public places, the Ambassador explained.

Taiwan has assisted the health sector here in a number of ways since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This included a video conference between health officials of both countries, during which they were able to share strategies on fighting the virus.

“St Vincent and the

Grenadines is one of our friend, and we deeply believe that all countries, that people in all countries should be entitled to good health,” H.E Ho said.

The Health Minister commended Taiwan for the manner in which that country has dealt with the fight against the spread of the coronavirus, noting that this country has benefitted immensely as a result of this.

According to Browne, Taiwan has made a number of contributions to the local campaign, and health officials have benefitted from training courses from health

experts in that country.

He said that it was yet to be determined how the masks will be distributed, but he highlighted their importance, saying, “These things, which in normal times we take for granted, can be the difference between life and death and the transmission or nontransmission of the disease,” Browne said.

The thermo-imaging devices, the minister acknowledged, was an important tool in the continued surveillance of the virus, especially as it Taiwan’s Ambassador H.E. Calvin Ho (masked) and related to monitoring Minister of Health Luke Browne (unmasked) at the persons entering the handing over ceremony. country. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 3.

News 3 Water supply for Mayreau delayed

Environment Attackers and Sustainable Grenadines chief amongst them) have banded together to facilitate improved water storage capacity for residents.

Recognizing the dire need and the work of the non-profit organisations, the government sprang into action Edwin Snagg, Director of Grenadines approximately two weeks ago and Affairs, pointed to mechanical began putting the logistics in place to problems with the vessel as causing transport 26,000 gallons of water to the delay in delivering water to Mayreau. residents on Mayreau.

THE VINCENTIAN caught up with Edwin Snagg, Director of Grenadines SOUTHERN GRENADINE ISLAND Mayreau Affairs on Thursday, April 16. is in the grips of a worsening fresh water According to Snagg, there is only supply crisis. one vessel here with the capacity to In mitigation, several homegrown transport that volume of water to that non-profit organisations (Union Island distance. Unfortunately, its operations were crippled by a busted engine, sources say.

Director Snagg confirmed that mechanical issues were in fact retarding the

No Vincy boat turned back Continued from Front Page.

originated from St. Vincent were dropped off on Petit St. Vincent (PSV), an island resort, and the small boats that were taking them over to Petite Martinique were prevented from doing so by a Grenada Coast Guard vessel in the area.”

Petite Martinique is one of two Grenadines islands which fall under the governance of Grenada.

Several residents/natives of Petite Martinique are known to work and earn their livelihood in the resort on Petit St. Vincent (PSV).

PSV forms part of the Grenadines islands under the jurisdiction of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and is the closest of the Grenadine chain of islands to Petite Martinique.

It is also within proximity to Union Island which falls under the governance of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

There is a long established trading relationship, both formal and informal, between the two islands, but since Grenada closed its borders in mid-March due to COVID-19, that trading ceased.

PMs clash This recent development came days after a clash between the Prime Ministers of Grenada — Dr. Keith Mitchell — and St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, following a statement made by Dr. Gonsalves, inter alia, that his island was willing to provide food and cooking gas in “a structured way” to the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

Dr. Mitchell retorted angrily, accusing his Vincentian counterpart of encouraging citizens of another island to break the law, because Grenada had closed its borders to the outside world in the wake of the deadly coronavirus.

NOW Grenada reported that they checked with persons in Petite Martinique, who admitted they were confused about the allegation that a boat was turned away, because they did not see nor were they aware of any confrontation at sea between the Grenada Coast Guard and a boat from Union Island. (Sources: NOW Grenada, The NEW TODAY, RSVGPF)

process involved in getting the water delivered.

Transporting the water will cost the government, through the CWSA, somewhere between EC$10 EC$13,000.00, Snagg disclosed.

Residents would be supplied free of costs whenever the water gets to them.

But Snagg declined to proffer a date for delivery.

The Greandines Affairs Director further explained, “It’s another thing when it gets there; there has to be trucks to take it up the hill, and in Mayreau you don’t have trucks with the capacity to carry a thousand gallons of water at any one time…. So I will have to engage two trucks… those would have to be transported from Union via ferry, so it’s a question of timing and coordination.”

And as far as the situation in Mayreau was concerned, Snagg noted that people are not dying of thirst, but there is need for water.

“If we get a shower of rain tonight,

the need changes significantly by morning. So it’s not a question that people are dying of thirst and it’s not going to reach that,” Smagg contended.

“Certainly I believe there are other means that we can utilize in the event that the negotiations with this vessel does not go the way I would like to see it.”

He was adamant that “whatever needs to be done would be done,” to deliver water to Mayreau,, “even if it meant putting 1000 gallon tanks on a ferry .”

All negotiations in relation to transporting and distributing the water ought to have been completed by end of business on Friday 17th April.

However, up to press time Wednesday, residents and area MP Terrence Ollivierre confirmed that no water had reached the island. jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

SVG records 13th COVID-19 case HEALTH OFFICIALS here have stopped short of saying that the 13th case of COVID-19 is as a result of community spread.

Last Tuesday, interestingly so, the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) said in a Press statement that the latest positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed by the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Without the means to test for the coronavirus infection, this country depends on CARPHRA for all its testing.

As far as detail, NEMO assured only that the case was under investigation which, all things being even, should lead to definitive judgement with respect to how the 13th case contracted the disease.

This should allay any doubt and quell confusion among

citizens, since there has been conflicting information circling with an initial disclosure saying that the person had no recent travel, but subsequent information pointing to the opposite.

Though, in a statement issued last Tuesday, the Chief Medical Officer Dr Simone Keizer said that “preliminary investigations into the new case point to a possible local transmission, since the individual in question has no known travel

history” She went on to explain that local spread/transmission is described as a situation “where the person was never abroad, but was exposed to an imported case, so that the source of the infection can be identified.”

If it is verified that the person has no recent history of overseas travel, then the conclusion would be that it is a case of local transmission —contact with an infected person here in SVG — and if so,

it would be this country’s first non-imported case of COVID-19.

Contact tracing is expected to be conducted as part of the investigation.

Meanwhile, THE VINCENTIAN received indication, albeit unconfirmed, that the 13th case resides and operates a business in a South Central Windward community.

As of last Wednesday, of the 13 cases of COVID-19 recorded so far, four have recovered.

There has been no death.

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4. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Courts

Reckless drivers fined and disqualified

The matter was brought to the attention of the police, who carried out investigations and J’LANI DOUGLAS, a former driver Putting it to the test located the three drivers, of the popular minibus ‘Toppa’, along with the man who had who was fined $900 two months In presenting the facts done the recording. ago for overloading that bus, earlier, Prosecutor, Station They were cautioned, and was among three young men Sergeant Parnel Browne of the who had their driver’s licences Police Traffic Department, told the person who did the recording gave the police the suspended last week, for the Court that around 7 p.m. cellular phone to view the reckless driving. on April 11, there was an episode.

Douglas, 25 of Rockies, has argument just outside Massy The contents of the been disqualified from driving Supermarket, Arnos Vale, for 12 months; Javon Jardine, between Douglas and Jardine, recording were extracted and 23, of Mt. Pleasant, for four as to whose vehicle was faster. placed on a disc. It was shown at the Serious Offences Court, months, and TJ Deane, 21, of To settle the score, they Prospect for three months. decided to put it to a test in a at the request of Station In addition, Douglas was ‘race’ from Massy to Sion Hill Sergeant Browne. fined $1,550 forthwith or 15 and back. weeks in prison; Jardine Douglas was driving P4621, Connell mitigates $1,200 forthwith or 12 weeks, while Jardine was driving The Prosecutor, using the and Deane $1,200 forthwith or PV918.

Motor Vehicle and Road 12 weeks.

The ‘race’ was already in Traffic Regulations to support Chief Magistrate Rechanne progress when Deane arrived Browne handed down the on the scene and was informed his case, asked the Court to penalties after all three about the contest. He took off disqualify the three defendants pleaded guilty to in his vehicle PK471 hoping to defendants from driving, for a period of time. separate charges of reckless ‘catch up’ with them.

But Attorney Grant driving, when they appeared Deane was accompanied (in Connell, who was retained to at the Serious Offences Court his car) by a person who represent Douglas and Jardine on Friday, April 17. recorded with cellular phone. but mitigated on behalf of all While Jardine and Deane Station Sergeant Browne three, asked the Chief had no previous convictions, said the men made their way Magistrate not to disqualify Douglas was convicted on six to Sion Hll and back, the men from driving. previous occasions for traffic overtaking everything on the He acknowledged the related offences, including one way. seriousness of the offence and Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

for dangerous driving.

the fact that (L-R): TJ Deane, Javon Jardine and J’Lani Douglas will have to be satisfied being passengers for a while. the action could have resulted in several persons losing their lives, but asked that all the circumstances be taken into account.

He said he was also aware of Douglas’ record as it related to traffic offences and that Jardine worked as a driver for a company, and if his driver’s licence was suspended, he would lose his job, describing it as painful should the Court rule so to do.

The attorney noted that the young men had expressed remorse for their action, pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity, and that Jardine and Deane had no previous convictions. He added that Douglas no longer drove a minibus; and that Deane was the father of two children.

But the Chief Magistrate viewed the men’s action as very serious.

In

outlining the aggravating factors, she stressed the recklessness, speed, nature of driving, and that there was significant traffic on the road.

She also pointed to Douglas’ conviction record which included one for dangerous driving.

Douglas and his conductor Anthony Ames had created headlines on February 9, when they were each fined $900 at the Serious Offences Court, or 9 weeks in prison, for overloading the minibus ‘Toppa’. They had allowed the bus which was licensed to carry 18 passengers, to carry 27.

Sergeant Kenny Jones of the Traffic Department had told the Serious Offences Court then, that he had spoken to Douglas on several occasions, and that hours after he was caught overloading, he overturned the bus at Villa.

Youths to pay for Trinis quarantined, interviewed: Lawyer puzzled vicious beating

ATTORNEY Grant Connell, representing three nationals of Trinidad and Tobago, charged Attorney Grant with entering Connell found the state it difficult to illegally, told digest that a the Court on person could Wednesday, he be quarantined could not and be understand how interviewed at the men could the same time. be under quarantine, and be at a Police Station at the same time.

Benjamin Lewis, Nareem Julien and Kenwyn Lambert are charged with entering the state by boat at Canouan on April 19, 2020, without passports.

They are also charged with entering the state by boat on April 19, 2020, and disembarking at a place other than at a port of entry.

When the men were called at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, they were not present, but Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett revealed that he was in receipt of a letter from Medical Officer of Health Dr. Roger Duncan, one of the leading

members of the COVID-19 Task Force, saying that the men have been quarantined for 14 days.

But Connell pointed out, that the issue with Customs was settled, and his clients intended to take a certain course in relation to the Immigration charges of illegal entry, which could have resulted in a deportation order.

But the attorney seemed to have difficulty understanding how the quarantine procedures worked. He noted that the men were taken to the Coast Guard base at Calliaqua after being intercepted in the Grenadines, and then to the Biabou Police Station.

When he visited them at the Biabou Station, they were being interviewed by Customs official.

Immigration would have had to have questioned them at some point also, Connell posited.

But he told the Court he could not understand how someone could be under quarantine and be interviewed at the Police Station, at the same time.

According to him, “When I went to the Biabou Police Station, I was the only one there wearing a mask.”

Burnett said that, according to

his information, the men were placed on quarantine since Sunday, April 19.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche told the Court that the Medical Authorities had asked for them to be quarantined.

The Senior Magistrate contended, “The matter came before the Court this morning.

They are not physically before the Court, so I am going to adjourn the matter”.

Burnett then adjourned the case to May 4 for a report.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN after, Connell said, “We are in unchartered waters, and I am guided by those who are in charge of dealing with the COVID-19 issue. But if we look at the positive side, maybe the time has come to amend the Act, so that issues of this nature, which most of the time result in a fine and deportation, could save the machinery of the Court being engaged. This case could have been resolved in 24 hours, and the men would have been happily back in Trinidad. They had already paid a fine under the Customs Act which allows for the issue to be addressed out of the Court.”

SHEM WILLIAMS, 25, of Diamond and Delano Webb, 27, of Sion Hill, were on Monday fined and ordered to pay compensation for viciously beating a 43-year-old man at Sion Hill about ten months ago.

Williams and Webb were each fined $2,000 for inflicting grievous bodily harm on Cuthbert Young, 43-year-old plumber of Roseau, Sion Hill.

In addition, Williams was ordered to pay $3,500 compensation to Young, while Webb is to compensate him in the sum of $2,500.

The fines are to be paid by May 28, with an alternative of nine months in prison. The compensation is to be paid by both men on June 30 or they will each serve six months in prison.

The sentences will run concurrently if the fines and compensation are not paid.

Prosecutor Curlene Samuel told the Court that around 8 p.m. on June 8, 2019, Young fell asleep while hanging out at Adrian ‘Caca’ Thomas’ shop at Sion Hill, and the defendants seized the opportunity to take him outside and severely beat him, and used their feet to stamp him about his body. He fell unconscious, and was left lying in the road. He was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital where he was warded for seven days.

The Prosecutor told the Court, based on the facts, it appeared that Williams played a more aggressive role during the ordeal.

Williams said that his action resulted from anger, after Young said something bad about his cousin whom he loved very much. He said he is a construction worker, and could get the money to pay the fines and compensation. He was on remand facing a robbery charge.

The youngsters were unrepresented.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 5.

News

Schools remain closed: Education sector hit hard are themselves affected and cannot sustain themselves and their wards financially,” he said.

According to Prince, the education sector has not been hit so hard in his lifetime, and the impact is worse than what took place following the volcano eruption in 1979. “There was not the level of anxiety and fear at that time as we are experiencing now in the society,” he said.

“So I think maybe this is the worst situation that the education sector has ever experienced, and that is why it is so difficult to even come to grips with what we’re trying to do,” he added.

As far as how the system can respond in the current situation, Prince stated that, while there are some (teachers) who embrace a new approach to teaching, he detects a general phobia for the use of technology in education among others.

He conjectured that one would have thought that teachers born in the technology era would feel at home with the technology, but he does not see that happening at all.

Prince, though, acknowledged that there are some schools that have people who are really into technology. “But then I see, All schools remain closed beyond the period allowed for the particularly the primary schools, you Easter break.

SCHOOLS in SVG closed on March 20, one week ahead of their scheduled closure for the Easter break, in the face of the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

They were supposed to reopen on April 14, but on April 8, Minister of Education St. Clair Prince announced that the reopening had been postponed, and that the situation will be reassessed in two weeks.

And while he made that official announcement, the Minister took to the airways to share his assessment of what the prevailing situation has uncovered about the education sector here.

“I think the education sector is hit very, very hard, not only because we’ve closed schools… but because the people who are in charge of students,

have a problem where the teachers seem not to want to go that way;, they prefer the old way with which they are comfortable,” said Prince as he pressed home the challenges the school system is experiencing.

He referenced, in that regard, a number of teachers who have been trained in the use of technology, after the Secondary Schools Principals Association engaged a company to train 200 teachers who came forward voluntarily. Additionally, Minister of The University of the West Education St. Clair Indies through the Ministry of Education recently trained Prince highlighted how hard the 300 teachers.

Prince thanked the schools education sector has that are trying “very hard” to been hit with the advent of COVID-19. deal with the new situation… “new with respect to the teaching modalities, new with respect to the use of the technology, new with respect to the mindset.” (KH)

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6. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Good News, Bad News GOOD NEWS that we recognized that we have to provide a modern and appropriately equipped quarantine facility for any COVID-19 victims.

BAD NEWs when we go about spending $3 million plus to purchase/lease, an incomplete building when we have available government buildings about the place, like those at Orange Hill, the sprawling, government-owned Buccament Bay Resort that seems doomed to no return.

GOOD NEWS that we have the services of Cuban doctors and nurses to help in the fight against COVID-19.

BAD NEWS when we never hear about how much this is going to cost us and what constitutes this cost. After all, we are not stupid to believe that this doesn’t come at a cost.

GOOD NEWS that we can purchase that drug from Cuba -a drug that is supposedly effective in controlling the spread of the coronavirus.

BAD NEWS when we hear that Jamaica has declined to use the drug because of side effects and its lack of proven viability.

GOOD NEWS that our Prime Minister could see the need to help out our Caribbean brothers and sisters in Carriacou and Petite Martinique in this time of Covid19.

BAD, BAD NEWS when he has to make the offer so brazenly that it not only offends a colleague PM, but breaches every sense of proper procedure and regard for existing regulations by that country.

GOOD NEWS that we have a leader who carries around much weight and likes to punch above his weight.

BAD NEWS when his sycophants think they can follow in his footsteps and do the same by attacking persons in weight classes way above their intellect and accomplishment.

GOOD NEWS that VINLEC could give a 15% discount on the

basic energy charge on all electricity accounts, and waive VAT on accounts for domestic customers, hotels and guesthouses applicable for April, May and June 2020.

BAD NEWS if we don’t, not too far down the line, see a reduction in the Energy Fuel Surcharge to reflect the drastic decline in the price of oil.

GO0D NEWS that CWSA is doing its utmost and professional best to ensure a regular water supply for citizens on the mainland, even if they have to schedule it from time to time.

BAD NEWS when certain sectors of our society cry foul on and accuses a newspaper of wanting to undermine the government when it highlights the water situation in Bequia and the other Grenadines islands.

GOOD NEWS that we still have among us, persons who will literally put their lives on the line for others, as exemplified by Red Cross Volunteer Owen Baptiste in that recent vehicular mishap in Owia.

BAD, BAD NEWS, and shame on the persons concerned, when he was threatened with dismissal from his job as a Security Officer at the AIA, and was made so uncomfortable on returning to his job, that he, in the interest of safeguarding his mental health, chose to resign than have to endure unnecessary psychological pressure.

GOOD NEWS that the Traffic Department has woken up to their responsibility of bringing to their knees, those who use our roads in a reckless and uncaring manner, in their attempts to reproduce what they see in movies like The Fast and Furious.

BAD NEWS when they have to rely on Social Media to highlight the recklessness on our roads, the same Social Media which they are wont to castigate. EVEN MORE BAD NEWS if the recent action against three drivers is a flash in the pan.

GOOD NEWS that this ends here. BAD NEWS that there is so much more to say.

The promised return of the Vans (Reprint from 28th December, 1984)

as ever, saying that Mighty Explanation they were prepared to “YOU JUST CANNOT please everybody. await- in their Instead of praise, “Bloze” rained on me for own words on “My Turn”. “Why Worry,” failing to mention a number of van names they added; woman as well as “Man Must which space did not permit.

Live”.

And judging from the reckless way in And to think how well-meaning my plan which newcomers drive with the had been. My aim was to keep away men “Tearaway” speed of a “Silver Arrow”, it like “Rocky” who is “The Hardest”, “Kristo” must be obvious that they are itching to who can “Stand Tall” in any “Uprising”, see themselves in “Black and White” one and “Zippy J” who is known for his way or the other.

“Harder Touch” from molesting the likes of In vain I tried to explain that I was “Belle Vue Beauty”, sweet “Candy N” and practising “Economy”. But people seldom especially the shy “Clite”. “Ball Head”, display understanding and “Vision”. that “Young Blood” who delights in “Hard “Remarks” were thrown at me, and at one Play,” had also to be kept a distance from time I was virtually held “Hostage”. Some the alluring “Black Joy” and the charming went so far as to suggest that I was “Ayana”, both of whom sports shapes like seeking “Fame” for merely doing a job with figures “88” and suggest that the gift of “Honesty”.

“Topaz” would be in order.

Quite a few accused me of applying Indeed, if I could, I would protect many “Different Strokes” in my “Enterprise” by of the fellows from themselves , dealing only with the so-called “Elite”, the particularly the fun-loving guys led by supposedly “Top-Ranking”. The general “Ral-E”, “Patrick”, “Nick-O” and “Stand feeling was that I should stop flying high O”, who just like to “Live Up”. This fourlike a “Falcon” and seize the “Opportunity” some burn their candles at both ends, “48 to “Touch Down”.

Hours” non-stop. When they go on the Let me at once admit that some of the “Night Beat,” they invariably end up critics have reason to complain. I cannot having to seek “Refuge” with the “Night myself understand how on earth I could Nurse”, “Sister Greets”. have trotted out so many musical names and not say a word about the “Dee Jay”, Facing the Music the “Piper” of the music. “Hotspot”, one of our best music programmes on “Radio Yes, there is “Little Love” in Mini-Bus 705”, escaped my notice, as did the band affairs nowadays. Side by side with the “Asterick” which is a real “Thriller” these riotous living that leads to so many days. accidents and casualties, and the “Rat Some of the old family names persist.

Race” which nobody wins, there has The Brother B’s continue to grow , sprung up of late a budding religious strife “Colours Return” and there is now “Bigger lacking in “Love” and “Concorde”. Vying Crucial”. “Grease” has come on stream for “Power” and “Pride” of place are running in the tracks of “Grease “Rastaman”, “I Van”. “Chang” the Chinese, Lightning” which featured last time the “Spotless” Muslim “Abdullah” and the without “Thunder” which normally follows “Boodah” himself, all hopelessly caught up her. in this no- win situation.

Similarly, it stands to reason that When all is said and done, however, I twins- “Gemini” would travel together. Yet would hate to be remembered as “The I had recommended passengers to go in Upsetter” who struck “Man Ice Cold” with “Going Easy,” forgetting to suggest that a column that was prepared to call a van a they return in “Easy Going”! Apologies are van, and not a “Micro Bus” or “Maxi Taxi”. also due to “An-Jo” for mentioning only I would prefer that we join “Mr. Positive” “Joe-Ann.” in looking at the “Brighter Side”.

In a sense we are “Special” and we now Vanity have the “Layou Special” in keeping with our “Heritage”. That takes us back to Several men were outraged at having “Roots”. Moreover, educationally, Van been left out, though no slight was business is pure “Theatre”. And “That’s intended, “Zarrack”, “Rus”, “Billy”, “Braid - Me” in print for 1984”.

E”, “Trevor”, “Bobby”, “Randy” and “Nolly”, This publication was in honour of the all accosted me about the matter. On the hallowed memory of Pastor Snow other hand, the girls such as “Mary J”, (deceased) who swore by the Jehovah “Annie B” and “Jackie J”, were as “Polite” Witnesses and the columns on the vans.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 7.

Letters

Jamaica says no to Cuban drug

I WRITE from Jamaica where I am locked in but using the time to catch up on some reading and attending to some personal matters.

I was struck by an article in the Jamaica Observer of Friday 17. The article reported that the Jamaica Government had decided not to purchase, at this time, the Cuban antiviral drug Interferon Alpha 2B, to treat persons battling COVID-19.

What bothers me is that as far as I can remember reading, as far back as early April, our Minister of Health Luke Browne said that SVG had purchased this same Cuban drug Interferon, to be used in the treatment, like, he said, they had done in China.

My question is: What is it that SVG knows that Jamaica doesn’t or vice versa?

The article in the Observer said that the decision not to go with the Cuban drug “was made after consultations with experts in the public-health sector”.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie had told a Special Select Committee on Public Health, according to the article, that “the side-effects profile of the drug as demonstrated in trials with other diseases include fever, diarrhoea, myalgia, depression, and deaths”.

The Jamaica Observer also quoted the CMO as saying, “A clinical working group comprising

In support of Latham and Stewart YOU PUBLISHED a letter some weeks ago (Editor’s note: Thursday 9th April, 2020) by one Anthony Stewart PhD, in which he advanced the person of Levi Latham for consideration as a National Hero. I agree with Mr. Stewart wholeheartedly.

Mr. Latham is remembered as a member of the St. Vincent Labour Party, but if what I understand is correct, he at one time associated with Ebenezer Joshua and the Peoples Political Party (PPP).

Even if that was not so, Mr. Latham’s politics was more in keeping with that of Mr. Joshua, i.e. politics of always putting the people first.

Mr. Latham not only promoted the idea of selfhelp, but he went out of his way to ensure that government’s money was spent on the poor… in housing, health and other basic amenities.

He would even use his own resources to see that some deserving family was taken care of.

Unlike so many before him and so many more after him, he never entered politics for the fame or money; he already had both. He was commited to people first and he lived that. I never heard of anyone castigating Mr. Latham for not having paid a fair wage to workers in his banana fields.

If one of the criteria for National Hero status is putting yourself out of the way in the interest of the poor and under-privileged, then Levi Latham stands head and shoulders above those who should be considered for that status.

Mespo Man

pulmonologists, anaesthesiologists, paediatricians, critical-care specialists, emergency-room physicians, pharmacists, standards and regulations personnel, among others, reportedly reviewed available material on Interferon Alpha 2B and decided against its use”.

Further, Bisasor-McKenzie said that there was insufficient evidence to support the unreserved use of the drug at this time.

She said that the administration of the drug requires nebulisation, which is aerosol-generating and, therefore, not recommended for patients suspected of or confirmed for COVID19.

“Based on these, I think that they

did take a lot of time to consider it, and based on the information that is available at this time, they have made this recommendation that I support,” the CMO added, according to the Jamaica Observer.

Mr. Editor, I have the greatest respect for the work being done by Cuban scientists across the board.

However, I don’t think the Jamaica Government would be so naive as to not purchase the drug simply because it comes from Cuba.

My advice is our Government and Minister Luke Browne are to tread carefully. Think twice before you act.

Paul from Jamaica

A report of COVID-19 ACCORDING to information, coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that, for the most part, do not cause significant clinical illness, like the cold.

However, from time to time, a dangerous strain develops such as the SARS and MERS viruses.

Like SARS and MERS, the novel coronavirus that currently plagues us, appears to have (according to

information) originated with animals. The flulike virus was first detected at a live animal market in Wuhan, China in late 2019, and has since spread globally.

The market sold seafood, as well as live consumable animals including: poultry, donkey, sheep, pigs, camels, foxes, badgers, bamboo rats, hedgehogs and reptiles.

Scientists believe an unknown intermediate may be spreading the

infectious virus. Bats, camels and other animals are carriers of the viruses which mutate and then pass on to humans.

Report is that it is a respiratory virus, and can be transmitted from person to person by inhaling, through coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms of being infected with the resulting COVID-19 disease include: sore throat, tiredness, tightness of the chest,

runny nose, headache and shortness of breath.

Serious cases can lead to pneumonia, kidney failure and even death.

Less than six months of this COVID-19 more than the population of ONCE AGAIN the Public manner? performing.

St. Vincent and the Service Union (PSU) has Maybe the time has Whatever view we Grenadines were killed, won another case. Once come for a thorough take, we have to agree and over 2 million cases again the successful investigation as to what that something is not have been confirmed. lawyer was Jomo is happening in the PSC. right with the PSC; they World economies have Thomas.

Maybe there needs to be continue to lose the cases literally been brought to This victory for the a shake- up. Could it be brought against them. a standstill. Never in PSU is a poor reflection that the PSC was Maybe the attitude by the recorded history of of the performance of the justified in its action but the PSC is that, man on earth had it ever Public Service weak in its defense of its “whatever, I will get my been like this. “For then Commission (PSC). It case due to the laziness stipend”. If that’s the shall be great raises questions as to by those entrusted to case, something is tribulation, such as was whether the PSC is produce the files and drastically wrong. not since the beginning incompetent in defend the PSC? If the Failure to make of the world to this time, administering its duties: latter is true, then it drastic change can result no, nor ever shall be”.

Are they really does reflect badly on the in the PSC continuing to Matt. 24:21. administrating fairly?

PSC. It could mean that lose cases brought This virus is one of the Are they prepared to persons are not against it. This will cost signs (Matt. 24: 7) that defend themselves? Is concerned about the the government lots of our King told us to look the PSC failing in doing organization, and are money that could have for as the beginning of its work in an honest being paid but not been spent in other areas sorrow (v. 8). These signs of need. tell us that this world’s The other side of all of systems (capitalism, this demonstrates communism etc.) are Democracy is alive and coming to their end, and well; that Government a New World Order can be taken to courts governed by Holy, and lose.

Righteous and just laws, But all in all, it is is ushering in. important that each This is a warning to public servant is dealt all world leaders, big and with fairly, and efforts small, that they are out must be made to govern of control. More troubles with fairness and lie ahead before the end honesty. comes. (v. 14)

Checking on the PSC

Kennard King

Christian Democrat

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8. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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Excerpts from the 2020 Budget Address on Agriculture

Introduction ONE THING that the Covid-19 crisis has illustrated, is the way our country has been able to provide food for its citizens, and how our farmers continue to earn money by exporting food regionally, in particularly to Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. All this points to the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture, and by extension, the ULP administration, to further energise the agricultural sector.

For more on this, we present this excerpt from the 2020 Budget Address delivered by the Minister of Finance, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves.

Agriculture remains the largest employer of Vincentians and one of the largest direct contributors to the wealth and wellbeing of our citizens.

Farming and fishing are deeply engrained in the Vincentian identity, culture and ethos. Long before the colonial invaders imposed plantation agriculture and the exploitation of enslaved Africans in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, our indigenous peoples were taking full advantage of our fertile soil and bountiful seas.

Over the years, we have remained true to the transformative potential of agriculture. The cash crop of the day has changed. The methods have changed. The markets have changed.

The global environment has made small island agriculture more difficult.

Indeed, some of our regional neighbours are abandoning agriculture in a headlong pursuit of ephemeral and unsustainable schemes. Not Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Our Potential We continue to recognise our custody of the region’s most fertile soil, most talented farmers and most able fisherfolk. We continue to invest wisely to capitalise on these blessings.

In 2019, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines exported more livestock than ever before, with cattle, goats and pigs being shipped to our regional neighbours. We exported more tonnes of seafood than ever before. We cultivated more cocoa than ever before. And we became the first new country of origin for coffee production in more than 50 years, with the introduction of a new premium specialty coffee brand. For the first time in recent memory, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emerged from the Christmas season without the need to import eggs. Instead, with production of 50,000 eggs per day, we are now poised to export eggs regionally. With the resolution of the currency exchange impasse with Trinidad and Tobago, our traffickers are enjoying increased exports of root crops and other agricultural produce.

Hundreds of local farmers have become licensed as cannabis cultivators, and large swaths of land have been bought or leased for the production of medicinal cannabis.

Agriculture in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is in a period of rapid change and exciting possibilities. This reinvigorated sector — ably and energetically led by our Honourable Minister of Agriculture, our farmers and our fisherfolk — is poised to be a dynamic engine for growth and development over the coming decade.

Faith in Agriculture Budget 2020 demonstrates our faith in the power of our farmers, fisherfolk and the agriculture sector. In our Capital programme, we will be investing $2.7 million this year in the revitalisation of the arrowroot industry, including the construction of a new arrowroot processing facility.

Our traditional excellence and experience in the production of arrowroot dates to pre-colonial times.

In recent years, arrowroot has enjoyed a resurgence as a gluten-free, grainfree, vegetable with high fiber, protein and folate content. Unfortunately, our arrowroot production facilities lacked the requisite modernity and phytosanitary capacity to take full advantage of the crop’s global reemergence.

We are grateful for the hard work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the advocacy of Ministers Caesar and Daniel, and the generosity of the government of the Republic of India, which provided US$1 million to construct a new factory shell for arrowroot production.

The new facility, to be located in Orange Hill, will be constructed this year.

Blackfish is another traditional product of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines that will enjoy significant investment and modernisation this year. Budget 2020 makes provision for $3.4 million to be spent on the construction of an advanced Blackfish processing facility in Barrouallie. The ministers of Foreign Affairs and Agriculture worked closely with the government of Japan to make this important project a reality.

Last year, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture spearheaded an initiative to move Saint Vincent and the Grenadines beyond subsistencelevel fish production by engaging the private sector and capitalising on the capacity of the Argyle International Airport. This initiative has been an unqualified success. The Bequia Seafood Company Limited and the Ocean Marine Shipping Agencies Limited have signed lease agreements with the Government to manage the underutilized facilities at Bequia and Owia, respectively. These two facilities now employ over 100 Vincentians and contributed to the strong growth in fish landings and exports for 2019. Both facilities intend to expand their employment and capacity in 2020.

As promised in last year’s budget, 2019 saw the beginning of construction of a new $10 million seafood processing facility at Calliaqua. It will be completed in August 2020. That facility is being built by Rainforest Seafoods, the largest processor and supplier of premium quality seafood in the Caribbean. Rainforest Seafoods intends to utilise the Argyle International Airport to export live lobsters and other Vincentian seafood to markets as distant as China and Japan. The processing facility will directly employ over 40 Vincentians and will purchase up to $20 million in lobster and seafood annually from Vincentian fisherfolk and local suppliers. When one considers that fish production in 2019 was estimated at approximately $18 million, Rainforest’s planned annual $20 million purchases hold tremendous promise for the growth of the fisheries sector and economic development.

The Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines recognises that 2020 presents a window of opportunity for Vincentian farmers and fisherfolk to capitalise on the exciting developments in the agriculture sector. As a result, we are significantly increasing the monies available under the Farmers Support Revolving Fund, to allow our fisherfolk and farmers of livestock, poultry, banana, vegetable, arrowroot and other root crop to enhance their capacity for increased production in anticipation of the coming opportunities.

The importance of Agriculture and Food Security COVID-19 PANDEMIC has exposed the fragility of the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is obvious that the Unity Labour Party (ULP) regime has mismanaged the economy. It has failed to diversify the economy. It has failed to develop the productive sectors. Had the ULP administration placed more emphasis on developing the agricultural sector, St. Vincent and the Grenadines economy would have been performing better during this crisis.

Over the past fifteen years, the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been reliant primarily on the tourism industry. COVID-19 has negatively affected the tourism industry and, as a result, government’s revenue is affected and hundreds of Vincentians who are employed directly and indirectly in the tourism industry have lost their jobs, creating enormous hardship for them and their families.

A strong agriculture-based economy would have been ideal during this time of crisis. The ULP regime has missed a golden opportunity to maximize the export of agricultural produce to regional markets. It is amazing at this time, to hear the Minister of Agriculture and other spokesperson for the government speak about the importance of agriculture and food security, terms that Vincentians have not heard from this government since it has been in power. Instead, we have heard from the spokespersons for the government that agriculture is a thing of the past, and having a profession was better than being a farmer. This is total disregard of the importance of agriculture and disrespect to the hardworking farmers.

During this period, it is important that the ULP government finds innovative ways to support our farmers so that they can continue to produce and market their produce, and small and medium agribusiness.

It is also important that an assessment be made of the impact of COVID- 19 on agriculture-based livelihoods and on food security.

The NDP will ensure that agriculture once again plays a pivotal role in a diversified economy, not least being to maximize its potential to earn foreign exchange, whether it be through the export of food items or raw materials that are required by other industries.

The overall goal of the NDP’s National Agricultural Policy will be to optimize and maximize our capacity to provide for our food needs. This will be done through increasing production of a range of crops and livestock species, as well as fish and related byproducts. This will ensure a sustainable and efficient food security system that is technologically driven competitive.

Towards ensuring food security, we will concentrate on the following: focus on ecological conservation and the use of bio-diversity; increase production to satisfy domestic consumption; place emphasis on relevant infrastructure development; conduct appropriate research and development programmes; encourage household/kitchen gardening; provide subsidies for local Agro-producers, processors and marketers; ensure effective land distribution and utilization and reduce dependency on imports.

Further, livestock is a key part of farming in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A substantive amount of root crop, vegetable and tree crop farmers own livestock. The NDP will support efforts to improve the health and production of livestock, particularly goats, sheep, pigs and cattle, by improving animal genetics and veterinary care.

We will introduce a land use policy that will give better directions for land usage, as we try to make maximum use of the limited lands available to us for food production and other use. A crop identification policy will be implemented to identify specific crops for development. This will better equip farmers and other stakeholders to determine which crops to plant where.

The use of chemicals has been a concern for Vincentians. While it was commonplace to use chemicals in the production of food crops, it is now time for a new approach to farming; one with less dependence on chemicals. A national registry of chemicals used in St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be created, and a concerted effort will be made by government to gradually decrease the use of toxins in food production. As a result, special attention will be paid to sustainable organic farming and tax custom duty concessions will be made available to those who engage in this type of farming.

We will encourage farmers to use methods of cultivation that are not harmful to the environment.

And to address the dire need among farmers for financial assistance, the NDP will reintroduce the credit system. Proper guidelines will be instituted to ensure the system is managed effectively to the benefit of all stakeholders.

In addition, the NDP is committed to find markets for our farm produce and will work along with the traffickers in this regard.

Praedial larceny is a major, ongoing concern. It appears that the ULP government is clueless as to how to solve the problem. Legislation has been enacted by the government but has failed to achieve the desired result. Rural constables have been employed, but that unit has since been dismantled. The NDP is making it abundantly clear to the farmers that we will adopt a Zero-tolerance approach to praedial larceny.

The NDP will also facilitate and support local production and marketing processes that will advance the country’s agriculture. Support will be given in the areas of: technology generation, technology development and technology transfer for both production and marketing.

The construction of feeder roads, bridges, and other infrastructure to advance the agricultural production and marketing system will be done.

And the provision of incentives to the production and marketing sectors, while respecting global international rules will be given.

The NDP has a clear vision and a strategic plan to achieve its goal in agricultural development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We are committed to revive the agricultural sector and making St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all Vincentians.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 9.

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Unhealed

Jah lick Dem with diseases

“The unconfessed is the unhealed.” Leanne Payne (1932-2015) – Author, founder and president of Pastoral Care Ministries.

PROF. WENDY GRENADE, Chair, Department of Government, Sociology, Social Work and Psychology at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus in Barbados, wrote a column on the COVID-19. Every politician in our region, especially our Prime Ministers, should read it, study then draw the relevant lessons.

Prof. Grenade argued persuasively that ‘The dilemma in the quest to save lives may jeopardize livelihoods. Yet the imperative to preserve livelihoods may cost human lives. While economies can rebound, lost lives cannot.’

She noted the ominous warning from the Director of Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) that ‘COVID-19 has yet to hit with full force in our region, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.'

And then she tells us ‘'For the Caribbean, these are early days yet.

There are too many unknowns about COVID-19. We are not quite sure whether we are at the beginning, the middle or nearing the end of this initial phase in the fight against this invisible enemy. There is no place for complacency.'

The foregoing should be met with total agreement by citizens, governments and opposition parties.

Why then is there so much noise and disagreement in our region around the best methods to be employed in the fight against COVID-19?

Most of our leaders should jump off their ‘high horses.

While requesting permission to extend emergency measures to May 31, 2020, St Lucia PM Allen Chastanet told his country’s parliament his government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis was ‘the best in the Caribbean because no one has had to be hospitalised and no one has died.’ No comparative proof to establish best.

Kamla Persad Bissesar Trinidad and Tobago’s opposition leader, demagogically proclaimed that the poor were suffering. She demanded that the Rowley government follow the science, put the proper health protocols in place and consider the phased opening of the economy. The clear impression given is that the government is not following the science, refuses to put the right protocols in place and is deliberately causing the continued suffering of the poor. News flash: a good slice of the Trinidadian population has been poor and long-suffering long before the COVID-19 outbreak.

Antigua PM Gaston Browne declared that Antigua cannot afford to remain closed for two, three or four months and he needs to find a way to start the phased opening of the country. He slammed opposition leader, Jamale Pringle, whom he accused of ‘intellectual masturbation because whatever happens, he collects his $13,000 salary.’ Whatever happens, Gaston Browne also collects his salary which is more than the opposition leader makes. Evidently, Pringle engages in mental masturbating because he offers a different view of the fight to combat the virus.

And the situation is no different here in SVG. Our Prime Minister offers himself as the brightest leader in the world. In a distinct state of desperation, he gallows from radio station to radio station intent on demonstrating how studied he is on the question of the pandemic. In the same way, he drowned out the voices of his ministers for two decades, he repeats the identical error with our health professionals.

MANY OF THIS COLUMN’S READERS may have had the pleasure of reading William Paul Young’s New York Time’s best-selling book entitled “The Shack”.

This book was published in 2007. Ten years later, in 2017, director Stuart Hazeldine guided the star-studded cast of actors and actresses to produce an award-winning two-hour film presentation, featuring the story that was depicted in the publication.

The Shack revolves around the story of a family that had gone camping in a forested area in the Oregon wilderness as part of their “bonding exercise”. However, what was expected to be a relaxing and joyous experience turned out to be most tragic as the youngest member of the family appears to have been kidnapped. Her father, Mack Phillips, subsequently battles with a tremendous amount of guilt. The resulting depression causes him to question his innermost beliefs.

However, as he seeks to address the emotional turmoil in his life, he receives a letter inviting him to return to the shack in the wilderness, where his daughter had seemed to disappear. He hesitantly makes the trek to the shack and meets a mysterious trio of strangers led by a lady named Papa. His interaction with these strange, new friends enables Mack to discover truths that transform his understanding and appreciation of his tragedy. The revelations changed his life forever.

As destiny would have it, I read The Shack while finalising the manuscript of my first book entitled “Be Inspired”. I had already secured the ISBN number but had not yet decided on a publisher. Being so impressed by William Paul Young’s writing and the success of his book, I sent him an e-mail inviting him to be my publisher. I was surprised at how speedily he had responded and the encouragement that he provided even as he declined my invitation to be my publisher. In a nutshell, he explained that many publishers had declined his invitation to have them publish his book. He, therefore, made the bold step to self-publish. He then proceeded to provide me with a detailed description of the advantages and disadvantages of having a publisher or pursuing the selfpublishing route. I opted to selfpublish. I am forever grateful to him for his guidance.

Several weeks ago, as I reflected on the wisdom that William Paul Young shared with me, I decided to conduct an Internet search on him (and invite you to do the same). This essay/article is a result of that search.

In one of his video presentations (“Restoring the Shack”) he notes that, “We are as sick as the secrets we keep.” In other words, many of us retain a focus on the mistakes that we have made and somehow appear to refuse to forgive self and others.

Those “secret hurts” have the potential to depress us, inflicting emotional pain whenever they surface

to our consciousness. He describes such individuals as being “unhealed”.

He then proceeds to note that, “The thing about healing is that you have to deal with the unresolved hurts.”

Many may recall the old saying, “We all have skeletons in our closets.”

In other words, we all have done or said things that we regret … every last one of us. We may try to bury them so deep that they no longer generate the guilt, shame, or regret that they once caused. However, they do linger there unless and until we get to the point where there is forgiveness of the foibles. Suppressed darkness (wrongs) always appear to be larger and more powerful than we want them to be. When we expose them to the light of truth, forgiveness, and reconciliation, they lose their power. We can exorcise them. They become limp and lifeless when we develop the strength and courage to see them for what they are — mistakes in judgement that warrant our forgiveness. We often need to develop the courage, the wisdom, to face the memory or the fear as we seek to eradicate it — to purge ourselves of it.

As Phillips would say, “Sometimes the path towards healing from fear is to go into the fear itself.”

Seeking and accepting forgiveness are considered critical steps on the route to healing. Engaging in denial, or merely wishing and hoping that the memories or the consequences of our errors will go away, will forever trap us and imprison us among the unhealed; among the tormented and unhappy.

However, all is not lost. We can lose those shackles of guilt, shame, and regret if/when we are big enough, to be small enough, to admit that we were wrong or have wronged others.

Reconciliation is possible. The “brokenness” may reside in our homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces, and/or place of worship. Joy, peace, and happiness often emerge when the unhealed accepts healing. This is not limited to reconciling with our relatives, friends, neighbours, and/or co-workers. Reconciling with God enables us to feel a new and precious sense of grace and calmness as we embrace and accept His grace and His mercies. Healing is possible!

It is probably fitting to end this article by returning to some comments shared in Paul Young’s video presentation entitled “Restoring the Shack”. He admitted to having an extra-marital affair that lasted for three months. However, even after the affair was ended, it took him and his wife eleven years to truly heal their relationship. A timely reminder that sometimes healing in situations like these may take much more time, effort, and energy than the initial infraction. But it is possible to mend the relationship if there is genuine repentance and forgiveness. Healing is possible. Regardless of the circumstances, we do not have to remain unhealed.

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

The clear and distinct impression is offered that Gonsalves is not guided by the professional opinion of Chief Medical Officer, Dr Simone Keiser-Beache, Medical Officer, Dr. Roger Duncan and Luke Browne, the Health minister. He runs the show, directs the troops and calls the shots. Proof: he stormed and took over the recent media briefing of the medical professionals.

Gonsalves has criticized actions of his regional colleagues to the pandemic as ‘the laziest thing’ anyone can do. To prove the superiority of his approach to fighting COVID-19, Gonsalves bypassed the Grenadian leader and pitches his offer of help directly to the citizens.

Later, he claimed not to want to engage in ‘village dog fight.’

And as if all of this was not enough, Prime Minister Gonsalves goes to his party radio station and requested Michigan and Smiley’s ‘Diseases.’ In the song, Michigan and Smiley deplore the fact that women were wearing trousers as opposed to shirts and blouses. ‘Mind Jah lick them with diseases, the most dangerous diseases,’ they preached.

As Michigan and Smiley list the worst diseases, PM Gonsalves grins and bobs along. Coviditis was his disease of choice. Who does he want to be stricken, his political opponents, those who believe that his approach to the pandemic is much too lacks or was he just trying to show that he is in tune with the cultural history of our region?

If Jah were to answer Gonsalves’ call and kills us with dangerous diseases, including Coviditis, would Gonsalves not be as reckless as Luzette King, NDP front line activist, who wished that a tsunami would wash away the argyle?

Flood water or Jah fire would kill indiscriminately as the coronavirus pandemic indicates. This virus is no joking matter, yet too many of us give Gonsalves a smiling pass.

All of us want this dreaded disease to go away. All of us are quite aware that a prolonged shut down will cause tremendous hardship on our people, especially the poor.

Therefore, what will we do? What must we do? Evidently, we are required to follow the science. Only the foolish among us will disregard the health protocols detailed by our health officials.

Some countries require all citizens to wear masks if they are venturing outdoors. There has been no such suggestion here. Generally, our people are more health-conscious and cautious since the outbreak. Some don’t leave their homes without their mask. Others dutifully sanitize their hands as they enter or leave places of business.

While there is no need for alarm, the announcement of COVID-19 positive #13 should be of some concern to all citizens. This is the first of the persons who tested positive that’s not imported.

This may mean we have crossover from imported cases to local or community spread. Either way, this is not good news. An eerie cloud enveloped Kingstown in recent weeks. We must ensure this virus does not spiral out of control.

No one has all the answers. Some among us are so intoxicated with power or the quest for high office are prepared to climb over the corpses of ordinary people. We hope they inherit the wind.

We hope our leaders humble themselves and do what is in the best interest for all our people.

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

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10. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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Aid for water security is a national embarrassment

AFTER 40 years of independence, the fact that our country is still relying on aid for fresh drinking water security, is a national shame and embarrassment.

Vincentians’ access to the basics – drinking water and food – should be guaranteed by now.

Disturbing stories about the lack of a domestic supply of water, especially in the Grenadines, illustrate neglect by government. It does not take 40 years to build the infrastructure and storage capacity needed to guarantee access to fresh drinking water for all Vincentians.

Sustainable access to water for all our citizens, ought to have been a priority concern from the time this government was installed.

Unfortunately, neglect by both ULP and NDP government means, even today, 40 years after independence, our people are suffering shortages of water.

In the early days of the ULP regime taking office, they compared SVG to Haiti. Over these past two decades, SVG has become more destitute - like Haiti. Just as with Haiti, SVG is relying on aid for water security.

Access to clean, fresh water is a main concern in Haiti, where waterborne illnesses, such as typhoid, cholera and chronic diarrhoea, are the cause of more than half of the deaths in the country every year.

Contaminated water is also one of the leading causes of childhood illness and the very high infant death rate in Haiti (57 for every 1000 births).

How far is SVG from this scenario and these statistics? One dry season?

The hard work of the Union Island Environment Attackers (UIEA),

fighting to ensure water security in the Grenadines, is highly commendable and admirable.

Procuring funds via the CARICOM Climate Change Centre through USAID to install a large number of thousand-gallon black tanks, will be a great help to people in the Grenadines.

One has to ask, though, why has this not been done by government and done a long time ago? Ensuring everyone has access to fresh drinking water is the job of government. As there is a lack of piped water infrastructure in the Grenadines, every house in the Grenadines should have been given at least 2 thousandgallon black tanks to increase their water security. Every house!

And relying on USAID! This shows that the ULP regime has been so hopeless and incompetent at running the economy and public finances since 2001, that SVG is still attached by the umbilical cord to international aid. It is a very sad state of affairs.

The lack of access to fresh drinking water and water security affects poor households more, as they have to fetch water from rivers, streams, wells or ponds. Drinking unsafe water can cause deadly diarrhoea -related diseases. Sickness and the time lost fetching water rob entire households and communities of their futures, as it can negatively impact upon school attendance and children’s education.

In the time of COVID-19, access to fresh drinking water is especially important for washing, bathing and flushing toilets.

Still relying on aid for water and water infrastructure after 40 years of independence is a disgrace. And doing

so, while the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan are given tax and customs duty exemptions of hundreds of millions of dollars a year, is obscene and disrespectful to Vincentians.

ULP and NDP governments have failed our people.

The Leader of SVG Green Party, Vincentian-born retired British Royal Air Force Engineer Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, believes that ensuring everyone has access to fresh drinking water is non-negotiable. It would be a priority under a Green government.

A Green government would also tax the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan in order to provide sustainable access to fresh drinking water for poor households.

We can make it… together THE CURRENT (COVID-19) pandemic has not avoided SVG. As a matter of fact, the side effects of this scourge are already manifesting themselves in undesirable actions. COVID-19 is throwing both odd and curved balls at the same time, and our middle stumps are being knocked out/down.

The calamity has thrown up different dimensions to its impact: HEALTH - because people are getting sick and dying; ECONOMIC - because businesses are forced to close and persons forced out of jobs; SPIRITUAL - because the Good Book predicted that in the last days these plagues, among other things, will besiege us.

But what prompted this viewpoint is the robbery that took place at Randy’s Supermarket on Sat. 4th April, 2020.

What transpired from analyzing the footage from the security cameras is abnormal. Yes, all robberies are abnormal, but there are certain pointers that lead me to conclude that this robbery could have been our first case of ‘COVID MADNESS’.

The scenario: An unmasked man, cutlass in hand, walks casually into the supermarket. He waits in line for the person in front of him to finish collecting his goods, then proceeds to rob. Since when do robbers wait in line before they start their evil actions?

The traumatized cashier runs for her life, and the robber, with no haste, proceeds to empty the contents of two cash machines. After cleaning out the second cash machine, he exits the building but returns to close the cash drawers of both cash registers!!! Since when do robbers return to close a cash pan? Then finally, before exiting the supermarket a second time, he performs a kung fu move. And the video ends.

this is an official figure, history teaches us that real figures are always about 15 to 30% more than the ‘official’ figures, as many deaths in rural areas are not reported/registered).

Let’s now return to our local scenario. A daily labourer is out of work because he has to stay at home, so NO form of income. At home, the food runs out and there are four or five children crying out for hunger. That parent — no work, no money - will be faced with a MOST STRESSFUL situation.

Currently, the government has no known financial relief mechanism in place that is functional, no charitable organisations are providing food packages in rural or urban areas. So, what are you to do as a poor person with no form of income in a situation like this? That is when TRAUMATIC STRESS sets in.

The government, working with civil society organisations from EVERY community, needs to start distributing food baskets to the needy. Giving cash at this point will not guarantee that food will be bought, so food packages must be distributed, as well as prepared meals for the old and children.

This is where government, opposition and all of civil society need to join forces to ease the pain that all of us are facing at this crucial hour.

‘Cabin Fever’

Another problem that will arise during this scenario is ‘cabin fever’.

Due to extended periods of confinement, persons will naturally want to ‘get out’; but there are several activities that could be conducted, like back yard gardening - planting short crops like black eye peas (rich in vegetable protein), lettuce, tomatoes, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder sweet peppers, spinach and mint.

Parents can teach children how to Any social analyst would conclude make their own reusable face masks that that man is not normal and and how to prepare meals. And what possibly mad. But what would cause about honing musical abilities, someone to behave in that manner? learning to draw … the The answer is clearly Post Traumatic possibilities/activities are numerous to Stress Disorder (PTSD). But what prevent ‘cabin fever’. causes PTSD? And finally, the spiritual dimension During the past few weeks, we have been bombarded with announcements which many might overlook or neglect. to stay home, practise social distancing Now is the ideal time to reflect on our and proper hygiene. Self-quarantining lives. Death could be at the door. How would we spend eternity if you are not and isolation have become the prepared? We weren’t always here, watchwords of the day. but we are here now, but we will not Every local and international news always be here!!! Are we going to be media has the same message, and for like Pharoah and refuse to obey the good reasons too … for these are the commands of the Almighty? That’s most effective ways in which we can your choice and mine. prevent/control the spread of this dreaded virus that, at the time of writing, had claimed the lives of more Donald A. De Riggs than 65,000 human beings. (While

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 11.

Business

Digicel looking after customers While Digicel’s Corporate Office at Fountain remains closed, Jamisha Wright, Digicel Regional Marketing Manager, outlined a schedule of working hours at all Digicel retail outlets throughout the state.

“WE REGARD THE WORK we do as critical to the entire population of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and are committed to being there with our customers in these challenging times.”

This was the assurance given by Digicel’s Regional Marketing ManagerJamisha Wright, as she reiterated her company’s commitment to ensure, as a top priority, the

health and safety of its customers and employees.

But while Digicel’s Corporate Office located at Fountain will remain closed until further notice, customers are

still able to access the Digicel retail stores, as follows: The Cell, Kingstown form Monday — Friday: 9:00am — 4:00pm and Saturday 9:00am — 1:00pm; Pulse,

Kingstown - Monday — Friday: 8:00am — 4:00pm and Saturday 9:00am — 1:00pm; GTech, Georgetown Monday — Friday: 10:30am — 5:00pm and Saturday 9:00am — 2:00pm; Bequia Tech, Port Elizabeth Monday — Friday: 9:00am — 5:00pm and Saturday 9:00am — 2:00pm; Canouan and Union Island — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — 9:00am to 1:00pm.

Wright further advised that Digicel customers can stay connected with a Digicel agent via the MyDigicel app or by calling 528-7180, Monday — Friday between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm. This could also be done by dialing 100 from their Digicel mobile phone.

Customers may still top up via the MyDigicel app, at any Republic Bank ATM, the Republic Bank app, at the Digicel

Kiosks, Digicel Payphones and www.digicelgroup.com.

Bill payments can also be made by calling 5287180, or via: FCIB online, Republic Bank online, BOSVG online, and the MyDigicel app.

And in keeping with the national appeal, Digicel is encouraging all its customers to practise social distancing, stay safe, stay connected and stay engaged during this time, and to follow the guidelines from the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment. (Source: Digicel)

Sagicor launches online camp WITH FAMILIES being confined to their homes during COVID19, Sagicor recently announced a children’s online camp designed to keep young charges entertained and active. The online camp includes a series of interactive and engaging sessions targeting children mainly between the ages of 4 and 10.

Keisha Humphrey, Manager for Communications & Brand Experience, Sagicor, indicated that the aim of the online camp is to facilitate mental and physical stimulation in addition to providing some assistance to parents and guardians.

Humphrey said, “Restrictions and confinement for an unknown length of time will certainly be a challenge for us all, but even more so for children who will undoubtedly become restless. By introducing this camp, we hope to excite them and reduce their level of boredom.”

Accessible via the company’s Facebook pages and YouTube channel, the camp brings together content from some of the region’s best facilitators and instructors, with sessions focused on storytelling, dance, yoga and cuisine, among other exciting areas. (Source: Sagicor)

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12. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Th story behind the SMSS ELP the school was conceptualized in August 2019. Mr. Petrus Gumbs, Head of the IT Department and Founder and Director of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) project in SVG, was then charged with responsibility of developing a system, with assistance from members of the IT Department.

“It was first tested in October 2019 when staff was trained during the Ministry of Education Professional Development half-day session, and tabled during the first Term PTA meeting,” Gumbs said, adding, “We now have a system that is quite unique to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

Teachers involved in additional training sessions held in March 2020.

System functionality

A sit-down with Mr. Gumbs revealed some of the features

by GLORIAH…. finds itself in a position of of the system. “The system is privilege. According to Mr. able to manage everything for THE CORONAVIRUS BORE DOWN Yohance Gibson, Principal Ag. the students, teachers, on St. Vincent and the of the school, “the institution principal and parents,” he Grenadines, creating an is ready to take on the said, “We try to maintain unprecedented crisis in the challenge that COVID-19 school as close as possible to Education sector. Education presents, barring any other what we actually would have Minister St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince unexpected crises.” done in a physical building. commented earlier this week Our daily requirements that, “The education sector has The E-Learning Platform include supervision, been hit very hard!” He noted monitoring, attendance, doing that, “Teachers, parents, and Gibson explained: “CXC was classwork and so on; and this students will now have to do a definitively moving towards E- system is able to achieve that. lot of creative work as an testing for the May/June 2020 The features that facilitate innovation in continuing the exams, and we wanted a this are: marking attendance, delivery of education services, system that would get our monitoring student activity, so that learning and teaching students accustomed to such giving and uploading will continue.” assessments.” assignments, providing safe And amidst this crisis, the Toward this end, an “Eenvironments for sessions like St. Martin’s Secondary School learning Platform” (ELP) for conferencing. It also has some

Yohance Gibson, Principal (Ag) of the St. Martin’s Secondary School, was in high praise of his teachers for their willingness and adaptability.

Petrus Gumbs has been responsible for designing, activating and monitoring the “E-learning Platform” (ELP) at the St. Martin’s Secondary School.

‘bells and whistles!’. It handles students’ grade books, a weighting system in terms of percentage for assessments, and testing similar to the level required by CXC, among others.”

Gumbs acknowledged that the system was geared initially towards CSEC exams.

However, the onset of COVID19 caused it to be pushed further to cater for more features that would facilitate all students.

He explained that with all students previously enrolled online at the launch, the “reopening” of school on Monday, 20th April, i.e. the day the system was open to the student body, many students were unable to get their passwords reset in their effort to access the system.

The system’s security read that action as a ‘hack’, so it shut down to protect itself and its legitimate users.

Gumbs assured, “We have completed developments that

allow the system to deal with more load, better handle student errors, and better manage all system activity.”

He cited teething problems associated with any new development, but was happy to say that things are now moving well.

He announced that coming on stream shortly will be a more integrated system that includes management, where students could see reports among other things.

Ag. Principal Gibson meanwhile lauded his teachers, saying, “The teachers have been phenomenal, embracing the project from the onset. They have been eagerly going online, utilizing creative ways to ensure that classes are prepared and that learning is being achieved.”

He also recognized the support of parents and past students and the current student enrolment for their readiness to promote the effort undertaken by the school.

COVID-19: Time for Academic Adjustment virus, the use of technology to continue THE CORONA VIRUS learning has been the OR COVID-19 has most practical path. The turned practically every government must be industry and institution commended for topsy-turvy, including retrieving hundreds of the education system. laptops from the Schools across St. Republic of Taiwan on Vincent and the China, to develop eGrenadines have been learning platforms for closed an additional two students while they are weeks from the initial at home.

April 14th scheduled reWhile Education opening date after the Minister Jimmy Prince Easter break. COVD-19, has described the it is obvious, has the pandemic as the school system on “lock “toughest time ever for down.” schools”, the crisis, With the World Health however, must be viewed Organization (WHO) as an opportunity to advocating ‘(social) revitalize and upgrade distancing’ to flatten the the education system to a curve of the spread of the more e-learning

by SHERON GARRAWAY

approach.

As we conclude the month of April which is Child Abuse Prevention Month, here are some benefits to online learning according to World Wide Learn.com: 1. Ease of Accessibility& Flexibility: Students can access their course at any time and from anywhere they can log on, in most cases.

Students only need a computer and internet access to take online classes. Course work can be accessible for students when they need it.

Students can review lectures, discussions, explanations and

comments. Individuals can also share notes with each other to help facilitate community learning

2. Chance for Interaction: Online courses may be less intimidating than the brick-and-mortar classroom setting, and

Online learning, especially from home, allows for qualified involvement of the entire family.

Continued on Page 13.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 13.

News

Fewer Grenadians coming

The tense exchange came as a result of comments related to border controls.

“I guess there may have been some greater enforcement from the end of the folks on Grenada, so the number of persons we see coming over now has gone down drastically. I cannot say that I’ve seen people from Carriacou Terrence Ollivierre, MP for the Southern Grenadines addressed, among other things, and Petit the established travel of people from Union Martinique coming in over island to Carriacou. the last couple of days”, Snagg FEWER GRENADIANS are being told THE VINCENTIAN. spotted in the Southern “If they are, I have not seen Grenadines, since the highly them. You would understand published tense exchange the circumstances under between Prime Ministers Dr. which we operate here. We Keith Mitchell of Grenada and have a multiplicity of bays and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. coves, and speedboats that Vincent and the Grenadines. take 10 to 15 minutes. And This is the assessment of there is no particular line of Edwin Snagg, Director of vigilance by the Authorities Grenadines Affairs.

here; in other words they’re not on the beach looking for them,” he continued.

The exchange

The MV Lady JJ – one of the vessels that ply the trade route between Union Island and Carriacou.

Party Member of Parliament for the Southern Grenadines, told a slightly different story.

According to him, the close cultural ties cannot be denied, as blood relatives are interspersed across the islands. However, just as people from the Edwin Snagg, Director of Grenada dependencies Grenadines Affairs, thinks that might come to the action on the Grenada end has Southern Grenadines, occasioned a decrease in traffic the reverse also holds from Carriacou and Petite true.

Martinique to Union Island.

“What I do know is tests. “I don’t know of people that twice per week a boat coming from Carriacou or would go from Union to Petit Martinique to Union Carriacou to buy supplies.

Some of the same supplies you Island for that; I don’t know of that situation,” MP Ollivierre could get on mainland St. said.

Vincent. Shop owners here Unconfirmed reports would buy goods from Another view Carriacou. And when the gas claimed that “one or two people from Carriacou and was cheaper in places like Terrence Ollivierre, Petit Martinique, people from Petit Martinique may have Opposition New Democratic come over since the lockdown, here (Union Island) would go looking for gasoline. We had a and buy gas. little trickle of that.”

“The people from Carriacou, Formalising the trade in turn, would use the ferry The focus, Ollivierre told us, boats to travel to Using should be on strengthening all the mainland technology to that unites both territories.

(St. Vincent) to continue buy agricultural “Since we are so connected, we learning is a should find means and ways to produce. They practical path in come back down strengthen these relationships this period of to benefit the people of all the (to Union) and isolation and islands.” Continued intratransport the ‘social goods in smaller island trade, he reasoned, distancing’. would have been one way to boats over to Petit Martnique, foster the time-worn relations. hours that may not “What should have been put Carriacou and be convenient for then to Grenada. in place is that a cargo boat — either party. for the supply and shipment of That was the food — should have been back and forth 4. Time to absorb allowed to operate. Once you that was going material: Positive can prove that you are coming between the results are reported to supply food from one to islands,” for students another, that cargo boat could Ollivierre Students may be able to save enrolled in online classes, have been given the necessary explained. money by not having to physically according to a study by the U.S. checks and health certificates The MP also attend classes. Online courses may spoke of people Department of Education: “On and be allowed to operate. help individuals cut down or average, students in online That should have been from Union eliminate costs such as learning conditions performed Island who go to maintained. The cargo boats transportation and expensive modestly better than those no passengers, strictly cargo.”

Carriacou for receiving face-to-face instruction.” textbooks. E-libraries and other dental digital publishers, might offer jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com consultations substantial savings for students.

5. Cost-effective Choice: and for blood Asbert News Network has earlier reported the Vincentian Prime Minister as saying, “…. clearly neither the quarantine nor the lockdown is as effective as they should be because fellas leaving by boat and coming and buying things, from Carriacou and Petit Martinique”, as he acknowledged the close cultural links between the peoples of the Southern Grenadines and the Grenadian Isles.

“Petit Martinique people come to Union regularly to get medical attention. In fact they come there, and sometimes when they need more serious treatment, they take the boat and come up to St. Vincent,” Gonsalves said.

COVID-19: Time for Academic Adjustment Continued from Page 12. could help to increase student interaction. By allowing everyone to have a voice, shared ideas grow diverse as well. Students can also think longer about what they want to say and add their comments when ready. In a traditional classroom, the conversation could have moved past the point where the student may be willing to comment.

3. Online communications: Instructors can be more approachable in the online setting.

Students may feel more comfortable talking openly with their teachers through online chats, emails, and newsgroup discussions rather than face-toface. Online correspondence also cuts out having to wait for office

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14. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

Calypsonians in NY support Vincymas cancellation mas in July,” he added. “Apart from it being a financial suicide, in my opinion, we would have been putting many lives at risk.

CARLOS ‘REJECTOR’ PROVIDENCE, “Even if the virus did not reach St. President of the Brooklyn, New YorkVincent and the Grenadines, it would based Dynamites Calypso Tent, has have been highly unethical of us to welcomed the Government of St. Vincent be partying, drinking rum and and the Grenadines’ decision to cancel reveling in the streets, while millions Vincy Mas 2020, the national carnival, of persons all around us are suffering due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and dying,” continued Providence, pandemic. disclosing that he was asked by the “It is certain that, even after the President of the St. Vincent and the pandemic, it would take a considerable Grenadines Calypsonians Association, amount of time for things to return to Earl ‘Caba’ Bennett, for his opinion on anything close to normal, and carnival whether Vincy Mas 2020 should be depends a great deal on persons and cancelled or postponed to a later date materials coming in from abroad, this year. sponsors and the local population,” “I deliberated for a while, taking all said Providence, a former National factors into consideration,” he said.

Calypso Monarch, in an exclusive “After so doing, I came to the VINCENTIAN interview Sunday conclusion it would be best to cancel night. and start preparations for 2021.”

“With millions of people around the Bennett, for his part, said that, even world currently out of work and the as his association recommended vast majority of businesses shut down, cancellation of Vincy Mas 2020, “we it’s virtually impossible for anyone to are cognizant of the fact of the adverse travel for or sponsor any part of Vincy effects that this decision will have on Story by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

scores of our nationals, inclusive of calypsonians (kaiso, ragga and soca artistes), who depend largely or solely on Vincy Mas for an income.”

In this regard, he recommended, in a letter to Chairman of the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC) Ricardo Adams, that a stimulus package be offered to full-time calypsonians (those who are unemployed); songs that are already released be eligible for Vincy Mas 2021; the CDC continues to put plans in place for Vincy Mas 2021; and “systematic and methodical developmental work be done in all facets for all three components with a view to enhancing the quality of our product — Vincy Mas.” A statement from the Office of Prime Minister Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves stated that Cabinet accepted the recommendations advanced by CDC through the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture.

But, in announcing the cancellation of Vincy Mas 2020, Gonsalves

Carlos ‘Rejector’ Providence, President of the Brooklyn, New Yorkbased Dynamites Calypso Tent, offcially registered his tent’s support for the camcellation of Vincymas 2020. (Photo Credit: Nelson King) disclosed that Cabinet has “left open holding a popular festival at a later date in the Summer of 2020, should circumstances permit,” according to THE VINCENTIAN. The paper said Gonsalves also assured that the Economic Review and Stimulus Package, which was presented to Parliament on April 7, would contain provisions “to assist persons who are actively engaged in carnival and the cultural industry.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 15.

News

Omnibus suspension called off

OMNIBUS OPERATORS had threatened to continue their suspension of services had the government refused to acknowledge their request for a meeting to discuss a list of proposals they had advanced.

However, in a press release on April 20, VINTAS said that this action was averted when the meeting, as requested, was held on April 17, 2020, and that the suspension of service had been called off.

According to the release, the parties agreed that: the Government will review the request from VINTAS to implement a COVID-19 public transportation policy on the wearing of masks in public transportation; the EC$700,000.00 approved in the supplementary budget for the omnibus sector will be distributed based on the number of registrants; the registration of omnibuses in this regard will continue until Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at the Arnos Vale Airport parking lot and Victoria Park Road; the Government will review in two (2) weeks’ time, the request for the increase in capacity for the various sizes of omnibus; the sanitization process will continue at both bus terminals until further notice.

Omnibuses have returned to normal service. (Photo Credit: ANN) In a meeting of Tuesday 14th April, VINTAS Vice President (Ag) Royron Adams told the gathering that he did not think a request for an increase in bus fares was practical at this time, and instead suggested that the focus operating expenses like the cost of vehicle parts, tyres and petrol.

The release as referred did not address these issues and there was, therefore, no clarity as to whether the issues were at all discussed at the meeting with government officials.

The release advised all owners and/or operators of omnibuses to get registered by Wednesday April 22, 2020.

THE VINCENTIAN was unable, up to press time, to ascertain with any assurance how this process was unfolding. (KH)

Earth Day 2020 A message for the Nation EARTH DAY was first commemorated on 22nd April, 1970 in the United States of America, making 2020 the 50th occasion on which the Day is celebrated.

It is now marked on 22nd April every year in 192 countries, and activities on that Day are aimed at educating about and encouraging responses to environmental issues.

This year’s theme for the day is: ‘Climate Action’.

The National Environmental Days Commemoration Committee (NEDCC) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines provides a platform to commemorate and raise awareness of global environmental days such as Earth Day. Membership of the Committee is drawn from the Forestry Services; Fisheries Division; Public Health Department; Department of Labour; Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture; , Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN; Sustainable Development Unit, and the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority, In SVG and around the globe, we are constantly bombarded by threats posed by climate change. The resulting natural disasters, drought, sea level rises, climate related diseases and human induced activities bear down adversely on every sector,

whether it be the Productive Sector like Tourism and Agriculture, or the Service Sector like Health and Transportation.

Additionally, pollution and deforestation have and will continue to exacerbate environmental conditions, while increasing vulnerability and the level of risk and threat on the country.

We can offset our carbon emissions and reduce our carbon footprint by investing in clean and renewable energy technologies. We can continue to promote sustainable development.

Energy efficiency measures can also be practised in homes by investing in high energy efficient appliances or switching to renewable energy.

Despite the challenges faced by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic at this time, where public events and social gatherings are not encouraged, let us continue to use virtual means to raise awareness, be educated on issues of climate change and the impact on our vulnerable island state.

Moreover, we must understand and accept that we, collectively as a nation, have a role to play towards increasing our resilience in the face of Climate Change.

By: Abena White – Climate Change and Natural Resource Management Officer, National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority.

V ‘We can all shine’ [Like a diamond] 16. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

People

THE REVERBERATING chorus, ‘Shine bright like a diamond’ from Rihanna’s 2012 single, ‘Diamonds’, can easily be the common theme that runs through the recent books written and published by Samantha Williams. On one hand, the books invite their audiences – children and women, to look inwardly and

recognise that they are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’. Simply put, they are beautiful human beings and therefore, have the strength within to overcome the obstacles that may come their way. But this theme is more than just an invitation to look inwardly, it is more importantly, a call for us to use our gifts and talents to

help nurture those around us.

To emit light!

It is not typical to meet a mother who is full-time employed and who finds time to write.

Samantha Williams is one such mom. She Samantha Williams – mother, career woman, author. started writing as a teenager as a means of expressing life.

Though the books have been written herself without having the fear of being ridiculed or diminished. For her, for different audiences, children and women; Samantha wanted to writing provides a space to nurture underscore the importance of positive her creative imagination while at the affirmation of children by their same time providing an avenue to inspire others who have had to endure parents and guardians through the deliberate use of words; essentially the scars of issues such as bullying and abuse. She indicated however that making the point that children - both boys and girls are valuable and valued when she started her academic and professional journey, writing as a form members of their families and society no matter their circumstances. of art naturally took a back seat, as Similarly, she wanted to contribute to the demands of her career, academia, other women’s empowerment by and motherhood required more of her emphasizing that their personal time. Her passion was re-ignited histories and circumstances are when her mom was diagnosed with a terminal illness in 2018. She was then inevitably linked to their present, but they do not necessarily need to define unable to physically be with her what they do, how they do what they mother to provide the comfort and support she needed at that time. Once do and who they eventually become. again, Samantha immersed herself in As she puts it, ‘we can all shine’, as we her writing which provided a peace of have the capacity and fortitude to overcome our challenges and setbacks mind for her. In her own words, ‘it and become like diamonds that shine. became therapy’.

Currently, Samantha is working on In total, Samantha has written and other books which would several published four books related to the concepts of Love and explore working is and women, and children She expresses Forgiveness. on a fifth one. Her publications God and her children to appreciation include, ‘I am Me!’ which was for the inspiration and strength. She published on August 31st, ‘I Am Me, too!’ published November 1st, ‘A TO Z wishes also to extend her gratitude to her family, friends and colleagues at Positive Affirmations for Boys and Girls- September 3rd and ‘Women! We the Open Campus for their support on this journey. The Head, Staff and All Can Rise: We All Can Shine!’ students of the Open Campus, St. published on September 5th, also in 2019. It was Sam’s intention to publish Vincent and the Grenadines extend their congratulations to her on her these works so her mother can share accomplishments. the joy and pride with her before she passed earlier this year. Her fifth book entitled, ‘You can, if you try’ will UWI Open Campus be published on her mother’s birthday, St. Vincent and the Grenadines March 2020 April 14th, 2020 in dedication to her

Fast drivers need a vent

ATTORNEY Grant Connell is calling for facilities to be provided for youngsters to race their fast vehicles.

The lawyer made the call at the Serious Offences Court on Friday, April 17 while mitigating on behalf of three young men who were charged with reckless driving.

According to the facts, J’lani Douglas, 25, of Rockies; Javon Jardine, 23, of Mt. Pleasant; and TJ Deane, 21, of Prospect, were racing their vehicles from Arnos Vale to Sion Hill and back to see which was the fastest.

Connell said that if a vent is not provided for the drivers of these fast street cars, they would be tempted to

let out that excessive speed in areas which could endanger lives.

He said that the airport tarmac at Arnos Vale is usually used for car racing events, but the cost to rent, secure, and use the facility is well in excess of $8,000, making it inaccessible to persons in the lowincome bracket.

Connell also expressed the view that specific venues should be designated for young people to go and ‘blast’ their music, instead of the police having to run them down, and charge them under the Noise Act or Traffic Regulations. He suggested Rabacca as one location. (H.H)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 15.

Opinion

Doing social work for change I EXTEND a word of appreciation to the various forms of Media that report responsibly and encourage our communities in this time of crisis.

Forty-one years ago, with the eruption of La Soufriere, Media was very important to our daily activities. For those who did not experience the “togetherness” that existed at that time, I assure you that we rode the crisis through individual and collective responsibility for our actions. There was always a ‘Watchman’ protecting the welfare of the Community. Yes, there were instances of anti-social behaviour, but they could not overwhelm the positives. In similar manner, let not antisocial media misguide us at a time when only destruction can be the result.

Over the past weeks, two media reports have captured my attention.

First, the Prime Minister’s thought on the position in which needy school children WOULD find themselves, when school meals are unavailable.

There must be a solution — immediate measures, in the short term, such as the issue of Food Cards to their parents, with guidance on how to utilize it to provide good nutrition for the child. In the long term, the parents must be taught ‘to fish’, and then enabled to do so.

The second media report was the rebirth of the Association of Social Workers. It gladdened my heart that an NGO of this nature should spring into being at this critical time. There is much work to do at the community level, and while Domestic Violence is at crisis proportions, the presence of hunger among children should be added to the agenda. This would add support to Teachers and Agricultural Instructors who initiate projects for children to grow food for home consumption and sale.

According to the July 1997 Newsletter of the then Association of Social Workers, “Social Workers work within a problem solving frame-work, using their knowledge of the interaction of psychological, biological, social, political and economic forces to enable people to enhance the quality of their lives”. So varied is this work that the Social Workers Association of the late eighties produced some valuable tools, among them a marvelous little Cook Book called “Chatoyer Callaloo”. A copy of that

Book would provide tips on utilizing our local produce.

“The professional service is given for the purpose of assisting individuals, families or groups to attain satisfying relationships and standards of life in accordance with their particular wishes and capacities, and in harmony with standards of the community”.

The networks of NGO’s, such as those dealing with Early Childhood Education, Adult Education, Youth, Church, Sports and Women’s Organisations should welcome and collaborate with this rich resource — a Watchman. It is a dark time, and the ‘Watchman’ must guard our gates.

Where necessary those NGOs that are faltering, or have abandoned their role as ‘Watchman’, should awake and stand ready to volunteer their services at Community and Policy level, contributing to social change and improved welfare of all in our society.

Nelcia Robinson

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18. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Delivery room fiasco Dear George, I HAVE BEEN married for 3 years. This is my wife’s second. Her first lasted 4 years and produced one child.

My wife is pregnant and soon to deliver, and she is insisting that her ‘ex’ should be in the delivery room.

She wants him to be in the delivery room with me.

As her husband, it’s automatically that I should be the one, but she is arguing that her first husband be there, since he missed the chance to see her deliver as he was away at the time.

This is so much nonsense, I feel like an idiot telling you about it. I am ready to go with her to witness the birth of our child, and no ex-husband is going to spoil that moment for me. She has threatened that if I do not give way, I should be prepared to lose her. I am at a loss for words for the first time in my life.

There will always be problems when the past is carried over into the present. What’s past is past, and if your marriage is to be successful, you wife must detach completely from her past relationship and focus on the now.

The number of persons in the delivery room, I am assuming is up to the hospital policy. That said, there is no valid reason why the ex-husband should be connected to your wife’s pregnancy, unless they both know something that you don’t.

The bottom line is that as husband and father, you have every right to be at your wife’s side at the time of delivery, assuming that the hospital management allows it.

Living in a daze

George

Living in a daze,

Your mother or me!!!

Dear George, MY HUSBAND witnessed his mother slap me in the face, and did nothing about it. As a matter of fact, when I attempted to slap her back, he jumped in, caught my hand and asked me if I was crazy enough to want to lay hands on his mother. I expected him to stand up to her, but he did nothing of the sort.

His mother was visiting us at the time, and it seems every time she visits she picks a quarrel with me, and my husband gives his mother right over me every time.

I am fed up with her sticking her nose into our marriage. My husband has to make a simple choice: me or his mother. I hope he reads this.

Second string marriage Dear Second string marriage, Violence of any kind should never be condoned, and your husband should have stepped in and make that clear to his mother. He could have even gone further and let her know where the line of her boundary is as it relates to her involvement in his marriage.

The situation is that neither your husband nor his mother accepts

that they have to redefine the relationship between them so as to allow your marriage to grow unmolested.

The issue has to be addressed immediately, and you both may need

to see a marital counsellor to guide you through this. Until this is done, I suggest you keep a physical distance from your mother-in-law.

George

COVID-19 woes Dear George, SINCE THE COVID-19 situation has caused my wife and I to be home, I am getting to learn she is not really into me. She spends 95% of her time on the phone, and God alone knows whom she is really talking to.

Now that we are both at home, I thought at least our sex lives would improve. Not so!! She gives me the “I have a headache” or “Not tonight, maybe in the morning” excuses. The thing is, the headache never goes away and the “morning” never comes.

I can’t understand how two married people, both under 35, could be in a house for three weeks and only have sex once. I tried many times to address this, and all she says is “This COVID-19 virus has its good and its bad.” She never explained what she meant by that statement, and it is giving me a headache.

Stressed to the bone Dear Stressed to the bone, Living in a confined space with all sorts of limitations hanging over your heads, is in itself very stressful. It is the couple who can communicate and who fully trust and love each other and who are best friends with each, that stand a great chance of surviving this crisis unscathed.

Use this time wisely to talk to each other about the concerns you have. Go back to what attracted you to each other and try to recreate the pleasant memories. You can also reach out to a counsellor by phone and get some much needed guidance towards securing your marriage.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Don't let friends or relatives make you feel guilty if you're not able to attend one of their affairs. Don't let domestic problems interfere with your objectives.

You need to get out and challenge yourself.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Use your added discipline to get what you want. Your ideas may be a little ahead of their time; don't push them, instead just continue working on development.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Your ability to work with detail will bring recognition. Don't get involved in other people's private doings. Don't let your partner put you down. Talk to someone you trust in order to see the whole picture.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your determination and stamina will make your work look flaw less and effortless. Unexpected visitors will be a welcome surprise. Don't overextend yourself in order to add luxury items to your entertainment center. Get involved in competitive sports.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Be careful not to sign your time or your cash away. Some of that extra energy you have stored up might just be put to good use. You need to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm and confidence in you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You may have the day off but your thoughts will be on your work and your cash situation. You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. Your health may have suffered due to neglect or abuse.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You need a change and you need to earn more cash. Read between the lines before you sign your name. You can help sort out problems that friends are facing. Invite friends over.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Put your plans into motion by presenting your intentions to those who should be able to give you financial support. Try to be fair in your dealings with acquaintances. Emotionally you won't see things accurately.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Romance is likely if you participate in unusual forms of entertainment. You will have to check your cash flow before you decide to indulge in hobbies or entertainment that may be beyond your budget.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Get motivated and follow up on some self-improvement resolutions. Be prepared to jump quickly if you wish to stay in the forefront of your industry this week. In-laws or relatives may oppose your personal intentions. Emotional disputes will only end in sorrow.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Payoff all your debts before you go out and celebrate. Try to be reasonable. Your family may be feeling neglected and unloved. Hold your temper and refrain from doing anything that might cause injury.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Travel for pleasure will be enticing. You have more than enough on your plate already. Opportunities to travel will be favorable in terms of moneymaking connections. Listen to the advice given by those with experience.

ACROSS 1. Lose color 5. Accomplished 8. Mr. Disney 12. Tall, spring flower 13. Notable age 14. Bagel spread 15. Hit (drums) 16. Cloud site 17. Enticement 18. Sandwich meat 20. Deli purchase 22. Grassy surface 24. Wine vessel 28. Lead-footed motorist 31. Telephone situation 32. Ate (Lunch) 33. River barrier 35. Drag 36. Musical drama 39. Field expanses 42. Lessened 43. Calm (fears) 44. Gamble (on) 46. Rink enthusiast 50. Oxford or loafer 53. “I love -!”

55. Molten rock 56. Coyote wail 57. Standard level 58. Stage direction 59. Longings 60. Previous to, poetically 61. Infuriate DOWN 1. Small lies 2. Neighborhood 3. Radio knob 4. Mansion grounds 5. Wished for 6. Pester

7. Week parts 8. be unsteady 9. Reminiscent of: 2 wds.

10. Honolulu garland 11. Young child 19. Wet earth 21. “How nauseating!”

23. Photo border 25. Woman choir participant 26. Hardly quick 27. Female pigs 28. Exhibition 29. Daddy 30. Creation location 34. Use a ruler 37. Fights back

38. Sweet fruit drink 40. Invite (out) 41. Casino employee 45. Kind 47. Hired auto 48. Morally

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 19.

depraved 49. Fixed price 50. Bashful 51. Weeding implement 52. Possess (property) 54. Rowing need

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20. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Williams is leading World T20 bowler Keswick Williams considers it an honour to be ranked among some of the top players in world cricket.

Keswick Williams intends to work even harder to maintain his position at the top. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

KESWICK WILLIAMS, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines born West Indies fast bowler, is the highest wicket-taker in T20 Internationals since the last edition of the World Cup in 2016.

Williams has played 25 matches since then, and has taken 41 wickets at an excellent average and strike-rate of 18.82 and 13.1 respectively.

His 41 wickets place him just ahead of India’s ace face bowler Jasprit

Bumrah with 40 wickets from 34 matches, at an average of 19.97 and a strike-rate of 17.9. His economy rate is an impeccable 6.67.

The third best bowler in the category is Chris Jordan of England also with 40 wickets from 29 matches and a strike rate of 15.3. His economy rate of 8.70 accounts for his third place.

Bilal Khan of Oman is fourth with 37 wickets from 23 matches with a

strike rate of 131.

Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh is the firth top bowler with 36 wickets from 28 matches and a strike rate of 16.4.

Elated with the news Williams, who hails from Spring Village in the North Leeward district of mainland St. Vincent, was obviously elated with the news provided by the SportsAdda website,

when he spoke with THE VINCENTIAN. “I am elated, but it’s not the end of the road.

It’s a tremendous and great feeling to be on top of the ranking as the best T20 bowler since the last World Cup in 2016.

It’s really a good feeling to be up there when it comes to fast bowlers in the world,” he said with a chuckle in his voice.

Williams considers it an honour to be in the ranking with some of the top T20 bowlers in the world.

He added, “To be among the likes of Bumrah, Jordan and Khan who has been doing well for Oman, is an honour and a great feeling,” he said,

The journey to the top

The young Vincentian speedster is known for his animated celebration whenever he takes a wicket.

Williams took the time out to reflect on his journey to the top of T20 cricket.

“My career took off when I played for Combine Campus and Colleges, when I was on scholarship at The

University of the West Indies. At the CCC, my cricket benefited from the assistance of Floyd Reifer, coach, and my academics from the assistance of fellow Vincentian Romel Currency,” he disclosed.

He recalled being named in the West Indies T20 International squad for its series against Pakistan, as a late replacement for Andre Russell. He made his T20 debut in that series on September 27, 2016.

In June 2017, Williams was added to the West Indies One Day International squad, ahead of the third match against India. He went on to make his ODI debut in that series on June 30, 2017.

“I knew what I had to do to get on the team, which is work twice as hard; but I was determined to perform and keep my place in the team,” he related.

When prodded Williams revealed that his West Indies teammate Dwayne Bravo is the player he admires most.

“I’ve always looked to admire Dwayne Bravo as someone I will like to be when it comes to T20 bowling… I want to get my stats as close to him or even better in international cricket.”

As a matter of fact, Williams admitted that he aspires to getting his

name in all T20 leagues around the World, “but this will mean I will need to perform for the West Indies and the other leagues.”

And while he sits on top of the T20 fast bowlers chart, Williams believes he can still improve in some areas.

“Where I bowl mostly in the death, the stats are not bad, but I would love for my economy to come down to at least 7 …. .

Nonetheless, I cherish and love what I do because when you come out a winner, it’s a good feeling,” he said.

And as for where he is now, he acknowledges, “I am in a position now where I can’t relax, but (have) to press on, work hard and continue to do what I am doing. … I feel comfortable, strong; it’s just a matter of going back out there whenever this COVID-19 is over, and perform again, and keep my name up there when it comes to T20 fast bowlers.”

And the man who has what some believe is a meteoric rise to the top, accepts that his achievements to date have come because of the support of “my family, friends and fans, my coach Ian Allen, trainer Fitzy, and Lindon James who has always been, and most importantly the RSVG Police Force for affording me the time off to train.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

V Rodney Jack in Sportsmax’s Best Caribbean XI

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 21.

Sports

lightning speed, that left many defenders having to chase his shadow.

Bursting on to the regional scene in 1992 when still a student at the Bethel High School, Jack ripped through the Barbados defence to score all three goals for his country in a 3-2 in the Shell Caribbean Cup. Barbadian commentators referred to him, in the aftermath, as ‘Jack the Ripper’.

On that performance, Jack was recruited by Kevin Millard to join Lambada of Barbados for some trials.

This proved to be a fruitful move since from there Jack joined English Third Division Torquay United in 1995 to become the first Vincentian to play professional football in England.

Jack moved to Crewe Alexandra in the English League in 1998, and spent five years with that club, after which he had a one-year stint with Rushden & Diamonds.

Closing in on his mid-30s, Jack was recruited by Oldham Athletic, Waterford United and Southport, all between 2003 and 2008.

He relegated his professional career Barbados and the Jamaican duo of Ian to a non-league team - Nantwich Goodison and Ricardo Gardener.

Town, before officially retiring in 2012. Shaka Hislop of Trinidad and Tobago Before his exploits in England, Jack is the goal-keeper. honed his skills here in St Vincent and The bench includes: Goalkeeper the Grenadines with the Rollit Donavan Ricketts (Jamaica); Coaching Clinic, the Stingers FC, Forwards — Deon Burton and Lindy various SVG age group teams, as well Delapenha, both of Jamiaca; as with Hairoun Lions in the now Midfielders — Peter Cargill and Robbie defunct Caribbean Professional Earle, who are also Jamaicans.

Football League And the defenders are Wes Morgan In being named as part of the (Jamaica) and Jocelyn Angloma Caribbean XI, Jack is part of a four(Guadeloupe). man midfield, which also includes Jamaicans Theodore Withmore and Fitzroy Simpson, along with Trinidadian Russell Latapy.

Rodney ‘Chang’ Jack was named Opting for a 3-4-3 among a star-studded Caribbean formation, the three eleven. strikers selected were THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Walter Boyd- Jamaica, VINCENTIAN – Rodney ‘Chang’ Jack was Cricket Association (SVGCA) has established a and Stern John and named among a Caribbean Best XI, ‘Cricket Aid Fund’ of $10,500 to support cricketers Dwight Yorke Trinidad selected by Sports Max’s Editorial Team. negatively impacted by COVID-19. and Tobago.

Jack, who represented St Vincent The Fund will provide for two players of each of The three defenders and the Grenadines at the senior level are Emmerson Boyce 21 clubs from 1992 to 2004, was known for his participating in the cricket competitions that have started so far this year, namely NLA Premier Division, NLA First Division, and Women’s Super40, and each cricketer so benefiting will the Junior players were President said.

“SOON AS I heard the receive $250. information from the informed of the decision.

As far as what this The criteria for period of calm means for Ministry of Health about But even as the the selection of the coronavirus (COVID- SVGTTA activities have him, Haslam said, “It players by the The Dr. Kishore Shallow-led 19), I called an executive been suspended, players has allowed me the time clubs, though not SVGCA has demonstrated to reflect on what I Meeting and we decided are encouraged to disclosed, was once again that its there and then, to continue their training in would have done communicated to commitment goes way differently in developing accordance with the suspend all table tennis the clubs, and all beyond the boundary. protocols put in place by table tennis since I activities organized by payments were became president. I have SVGTT, until further government, e.g. social expected to be made made mistakes, which I distancing, during this notice.” by last Wednesday, April 22, 2020. shouldn’t have, especially Orville Haslam, This was disclosed by period of combating President of SVGCA Inc. Dr. Kishore Shallow COVID-19. given the knowledge and President of the SVG Orville Haslam OD, said that this gesture would hopefully help to Table Tennis President of the SVG And Tennis Academies experience that I have cushion a bit of the challenge faced by local Association. acquired over the years, Table Tennis Association are expected to ensure cricketers amid COVID-19. as a player and that this is practised.

(SVGTTA), in a recent And in a release (April 16) that made public the National Lottery, the “Hopefully, administrator.” conversation with THE ‘Cricket Aid Fund’, the SVGCA also communicated National Olympic He added, “Trying to VINCENTIAN. whenever we resume other decisions of a recent Executive (virtual) Committee (NOC), Vincy please everyone is Haslam also informed activities, the players meeting: Foundation, the media would have maintained a virtually impossible to that immediately * all three tournaments that have been halted and many individuals, in do! Fortunately, I still following the Meeting as certain amount of skills will remain suspended until at least May, when support of the have time to rectify and fitness,” the referenced, parents of there would be another review of the national progrramme to build situations and make health situation; Table Tennis here. things right, like trying * training for all national teams shall continue “So this period of to be as transparent as on hold, but players are urged to maintain their inactivity, so to speak, best as I can, giving fitness individually, and where requested, would has made me realize that be provided with a fitness programme; players, officials, I am blessed to be able to parents, media in * the National Club Championship (50 Overs general, an update from get an opportunity to Tournament), which was to follow the NLA contribute a small time to time on what is Premier Division, and NLA First Division is amount of my time to the cancelled for this year; happening locally and sport that has given me internationally.” * the NLA Neil Williams T20 Tournament will Haslam is grateful for so much.” Haslam take place in September — October this year, reasoned. the support he and his instead of the usual June — July.

Association have I.B.A.ALLEN received from the I.B.A. ALLEN

TT boss used calm to reflect

SVGCA supports cricketers

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22. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

SVG’s Junior Carifta gold count meagre Martinique in 1983 when Rohan Phillips (Saunders) won the Under-17 Boys High Jump.

Four years later, Jacqueline Ross won the Girls Under-20 Long Jump at the Trinidad and Tobago Games. Ross was followed by Marvette Collis, who in 1989, took gold in the Girls Under17 200m, when Barbados hosted the Games.

But it took St Vincent and the Grenadines another nineteen years, before another gold medal could be realised.

At the 2018 staging of Woodrow Williams, the Games in the internationally Bahamas, Handal Roban acclaimed Track and Field Technical Official, copped the Boys Under17 800m, while the makes no bones about quartet of Annecia assessing this Richards, Zita Vincent, country’s gold medal Tamara Woodley and haul at the Junior Shaffiqua Maloney, was Carifta Games as poor. elevated to first place ( on technicalities) in the Girls Under-20 4 x TRACK AND FIELD Technical Official Woodrow 400m.

But Williams sees the ‘Keylee’ Williams is of the Vincentians’ efforts over view that St Vincent and the years, as being under the Grenadines’ six gold par. medals gained at the “We should be doing annual Junior Carifta better, because we Games between 1972 to should be focussing on 2019, “meagre.”

The records show that gaining medals SVG’s first gold medal at regionally rather than locally, (so) we have to Carifta was achieved in decide who are the 1981 in the Bahamas, athletes who are when Orde Ballantyne prospective medallists at was first in the Boys’ Carifta per se,” Williams Under-20 Shot Putt.

The next gold came in proffered.

According to Williams, six medals throughout the years we have been attending Carifta, show that “we are nor excelling as we ought to.”

Likening Carifta as the Junior Olympics of the Caribbean, Williams said, “Winning a gold at Carifta means that you are the best at that particular event in the region.”

He, therefore, advanced the need for

early identification of athletes and channeling them into the events to which they are adept, and not training them to be all-round performers.

Williams also suggested that the coaches’ focus on preparing athletes to peak for the InterSecondary Schools’ Athletics Championships (ISSAC), rather than focusing on preparing them for the Carifta

best multi events athletes in the Caribbean…, but is that what we want?” Williams queried.

Williams is hopeful that with the Junior Carifta Games cancelled for 2020, coaches and Technical Officials of Team Athletics SVG, will use the lay off to reroute their thinking and come up with strategies to win more golds.

Ollivierre peeved with Track & Field administration MICHAEL OLLIVIERRE, Vice President of Team Athletics SVG, the governing body of Track and Field here, believes enough is not being done to support and enhance athletes’ skills towards improved performances in the local, regional and international circuits.

Ollivierre, who is also Head Coach of the IT_DAT Academy, expressed his sentiments based on what he said was his experience as a coach and an executive member of the TASVG. “I might be the Vice President, but the way Team Athletics is running, it’s a one man show, with a lack of

transparency and the foresight.

“I am not comfortable with the present system.

I don’t think the president is operating in

Be positive about Junior Carifta cancellation CHESTER MORGAN, Technical Director of Team Athletics SVG, says that Vincentian athletes who might have been disheartened by the cancellation of the Junior Carifta Games, should look for the “positives.”

The Games, scheduled for last Easter weekend in Bermuda, was postponed because of the threats of the coronavirus (COVID- 19), with indication then that they could be staged in August.

But hopes of any re-scheduling were dashed with the announcement last week by the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC), that the Games were cancelled for 2020.

This news has left some Vincentian athletes disappointed, according to Morgan.

“Some were going to experience this first Carifta Games, while others were looking to do better than what they did

Games.

Athletes, he said, are overworked just to win ISSAC, hence, “we are not producing enough specialist athletes.

“Our coaches here are doing quantity coaching and not quality coaching… The coaches are giving the athletes heavy workloads that are detrimental to the athletes,” Williams warned.

“We have some of the

last year,” Morgan stated.

“For someone like Ulanda Lewis, she was looking to again medal in the 100 and 200m, while someone like Kyle Lawrence would have been making his debut,” Morgan added.

Lewis, who won double bronze in the 100 and 200m in the Under-17 age group last year in the Cayman Islands, was to have competed in her final year at that level.

Morgan also noted that most of those who were expected to make the final cut for this year’s event, would have to move up to a new age category in 2021.

“Most of them are going to being pushed into a new age group... But with this happening, it means that the athletes can have a complete rest since there’s no competition ahead of them”, the Technical Director reasoned.

Looking at the positives that could be derived from the cancellation, Morgan cited that

athletes who are carrying niggling injuries would have time to recuperate, and athletes can use the period to update and upgrade Chester Morgan, themselves by, for Technical example, doing more Director into reading on what of Team are some of the new science into training.” Athletics “These athletes can SVG. now sit and listen to professional athletes and what they do, look at training tapes …

There are lots of videos going around on YouTube and so on at this moment, so they can use some of them as part of their planning and preparation,” Morgan advised.

Bermuda has been retained as the host of the 2021 49th edition of the Games. Guyana will host the 50th edition in 2022.

Michael Ollivierre (right) in a one on one with Keiffer Bailey who is currently on scholarship, facilitated by Ollivierre, at the CG Foster College in Jamaica. a manner that put the development of the sport here first and foremost.

He is secretary of a number of organizations, and as a result, he is hardly here; we hardly have meetings, especially when he is not around, so I am not comfortable,” Ollivierre stated.

He said, though, that he will continue to be around in an effort to assist with whatever transition there might be.

“I am not going to leave because, it won’t give me a chance to know what’s going on”, he asserted.

Going forward, Ollivierre posited that there was need to have someone else at the helm of the organization.

“At the moment, the President is retarding the sports here. He has invested in a number of athletes who, in my opinion, are not going anywhere, and he does not want to invest in the better athletes. He has had the opportunity to encourage and build

some really good talent, but that talent keeps going down the drain,” Ollivierre said.

Ollivierre also recognized some weaknesses in the Technical Director, describing the individual as “very poor … not the best person for the job… not adequately equipped… not eloquent enough.”

Yet, he speaks of supporting the Director.

In a nutshell, the experienced coach said that “Here is not enough developmental programmes for the athletes. The events are very limited, like not having enough road races to develop especially our middle and long distance runners. Even courses for the athletes like seminars, we don’t have them, so overall it’s a very poor effort towards the development of the athletes. This is not good enough.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020. 23.

Classifieds

PHILMA SAMUEL FERDINAND

KATHLEEN GUNSAM DANIEL

Rose Hall New Testament Church of God Sunday, 19th April, 2020 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Lady of Lourdes Argyle Catholic Church Thursday, 16th April, 2020 Service: 3:00 p.m.

RUBY ADINA MUCKETT better as Marma & Mother Mt Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Vermont Sunday, 19th April, 2020 Viewing: 12:00 noon Service: 1:30 p.m.

Interment: Chauncey Cemetery

ROY JULIAN GLASGOW SMALL Georgetown Methodist Church Saturday, 18th April, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

RANDOLPH BENJAMIN GORDON Langley Park Church of Christ Georgetown Saturday, 18th April, 2020 Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Georgetown Cemetery

ELICITA ELMA MILLINGTON Kingstown New Testament Church, Saturday, 18th April, 2020 Wilson Hill Service: 2:00 p.m.

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FRIDAY APRIL 24,

2020

VOLUME 114, No.17

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

JAMALI WHYTE VINDICATED VINDICATED CIVIL SERVANT Jamali Whyte is today using the opportunity afforded by a judicial review in his favour, to promote trade unionism as a positive force in the Vincentian society.

The ruling arose out of a

Godfred Pompey, former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Mobilisation, was found, by the court, to have erred in his decision to transfer Whyte.

case brought by the Public Service Union (PSU) on his behalf, against the Public Service Commission (PSC).

Madame Justice Esco Henry’s six-part ruling conveyed, inter alia, that, former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Mobilization Godfred Pompey’s decision to transfer Mr. Whyte was arrived at in a procedurally improper manner and is hereby quashed; and the decision by the Chief Personnel Officer and the PSC not to afford Mr. Whyte an opportunity to be heard on the decision to transfer him to the Maritime Department, Cruise Ship Terminal in Saint Vincent was unjust, unfair and arrived at in a procedurally improper manner.

Whyte, a Union Islander, was unceremoniously reassigned from his post as a Junior Clerk/Typist at the Union Island Inland Revenue Office on April 25, 2018. His attempts to remedy the situation were futile which led

his trade union to engage the legal services of Jomo Thomas, Shirlan Barnwell et al.

Whyte, who is still currently on paid indefinite leave, explained why he sought the assistance of the PSU in the matter. “Part of my reasons for contesting the transfer was that it would have burdened me financially, so to be able to afford a case in the High Court would have been very costly for me. That is why I personally would encourage members of the Public Service to join the Union.”

Justice Henry found, “Mr. Pompey’s admission that he did not factor in Mr. Whyte’s circumstances as damning, considering that those are relevant, in light of Mr. Whyte’s avowed particular interests and realistic concerns about his financial survival, and in view of the detrimental effects it could have on his family life and general well-being.”

The Court heard it would have cost Whyte $5,400 in

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

airfare every month to commute — approx. 35% more than his net salary.

Within two days of his ‘forced vacation leave,’ Justice Henry’s judgment detailed, Whyte “became worried and stressed and after seeking medical attention for diabetesrelated issues, he was placed on 30 days’ sick leave by his doctor.”

Today he is rested and thankful for the time, enforced as it was, that he was able to spend with his family.

Grateful to have the almost two years’ worth of Court proceedings behind him, Whyte is ready and willing to return to work, on simple terms. “My thing when I joined the service was I wanted to make my fair contribution towards nation building. So working in different departments in different places is something I will embrace; it’s not something I will run away from, but if I’m being moved and have to fend for myself because for example workers

Jamali Whyte, following his victory in court, is fortified in his resolve to promote the work of his Union – the Public Service Union. from mainland work on Union Island within my Ministry and accommodation is provided for them, transportation allowance too, so I think that the courtesy should be extended to somebody from the Grenadines who is being transferred to the mainland.” jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.