The Vincentian pdf- 26/07/2018

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FRIDAY,

JULY 27, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.30

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

Judges of the CCJ along with the Chief Justices of Jamaica and the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court during the Ceremonial Sitting.

PRIME MINISTER DR. RALPH GONSALVES is hoping that the elevation of Vincentian-born Adrian Saunders to President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) could be a catalyst for St. Vincent and the Grenadines to become the next country to accede to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction.

“I hope that today this could be a catalyst for our Parliament,” the Prime Minister told a packed upper floor of the High Court building, Justice Adrian Saunders, President CCJ in his address at the Special Sitting in St. Vincent, stated inter alia that it was his “..fervent hope that, in the months ahead, we in St Vincent and the Grenadines will reflect on this issue of the continued retention of the British Privy Council to hear our final appeals.”

Friday, July 20, during a Special Sitting, albeit ceremonial, of the CCJ to mark Justice Saunders’ elevation.

The historic quest to forge a home-grown constitution jolted to an abrupt halt November 25, 2009, when Vincentians, in a referendum, voted against constitutional reform.

The proposed constitution had made provisions for this country to replace the Privy Council by the CCJ as its final Court of Appeal, through a majority vote in Parliament.

Gonsalves pointed out that a referendum was no longer required; all that was needed now was a two-thirds majority in parliament. This was made possible following the passage of the Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 3.

News 3 Q.C.: „..Get into our court!‰

and patriotic son of the soil,” Campbell pleaded, “Vincentians, come on.

You want to tell me you don’t trust your own son of the soil? You want to tell me you don’t trust his legal skills?”

The lawyer declared emphatically that the Privy Council was simply not a Caribbean Court, Parnel Campbell Q.C. opined that it would be a and lamented that it was travesty, if Justice Saunders’ seven-year term in embarrassing when the office ends before SVG acceded to the CCJ in its Privy Council had to Appellate Jurisdiction. send back certain

by HAYDN HUGGINS Law and You’. matters to the local Campbell’s comments judges, because the FORMER ATTORNEY came three days after a British judges were not GENERAL Parnel Campbell historic Special Sitting of familiar with the Q.C. says he would be the CCJ was held at the Caribbean situation. beseeching the High Court building in Continuing his Government and the Kingstown, to mark the argument, Campbell Opposition with a elevation of Vincentianrecalled that “One campaign for St. Vincent born Adrian Saunders as British Judge said that and the Grenadines to President of that Court. now that you have your accede to the Caribbean The Q.C. argued that own (final) Court of Court of Justice (CCJ) in its this country cannot be Appeal, why not use it,” Appellate Jurisdiction. fully independent if it and revealed that from “It is time that we do continues to depend on time to time “Senior the right thing and get the London based Privy politicians in Britain into our own Court,” Council for the final have threatened to Campbell declared interpretation of its laws. abolish the Privy Monday night on his Describing Justice Council. television series ‘The Saunders as “a brilliant “The time may come

when we have noPrivy Council to go to,” Campbell proffered.

Campbell also stressed the tremendous cost to appeal a matter to the Privy Council.

“Unless you are very rich, or unless you are a condemned murderer, you better find EC$250,000 to take you off the ground”.

He noted that condemned murderers who appeal to the Privy Council, have the benefit of a legal aid system.

Campbell referred to Justice Saunders’ address to the Special CCJ Sitting here last Friday, in which the Chief Justice said that in the last 30 years, 21 cases here were decided in the Privy Council, and nine of those were death penalty cases.

According to Saunders, if you exclude the death penalty matters, you are left with 12, and of those 12 cases, the decisions of the

Justice Saunders, the CCJ and SVG Continued from Front Page.

Attorney General’s Reference Act, and the opinion of the Eastern Caribbean Appeal Court in St. Lucia.

In advancing his call, Gonsalves referenced popular Trinidadian Soca Artiste Ronnie Mc Intosh and his ‘How It Go Look?’

“How it go look that we have our own president of the Court and we are not acceding to it, and our President is a young man.

What we should do? Wait until years go by, and he demits? Let us do it in his early years. Let us place confidence in him and the Court,” Gonsalves said.

And according to Gonsalves, “The greatest tribute this country

can pay to Justice Saunders, is to become the next member of CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction.”

Gonsalves went further and expressed his willingness to work with the opposition in this regard.

He noted that his Government does not have a two-thirds majority in Parliament, but added, “I am available to sit down with the Opposition to bring a Bill to Parliament to have St. Vincent and the Grenadines accede to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction.”

He would take this ‘overture’ a step further last Monday, during a news conference, when he challenged the Opposition to take the lead in bringing that Bill.

When contacted on Monday, Opposition Leader and President

of the New Democratic Party (NDP) Dr. Godwin Friday told THE VINCENTIAN that the issue would have to be discussed within the NDP and with the people.

“Clearly, the people need to be prepared, since they are the ones who would be affected, and they would have to have full confidence in whatever decision is made,” Friday said, adding, “We in the NDP would always play a constructive role in these important issues.”

Friday had attended the Special Sitting last Friday, but was not listed to speak.

To date, only Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Guyana have signed on to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction.

Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal were reversed four times, and the other eight times, the Privy Council upheld the decisions.

Effective July 4, 2018, Justice Saunders, a former Acting Chief Justice of the Eastern

Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC), became the third president of CCJ, succeeding Sir Dennis Byron of St. Kitts, who had himself succeeded Trinidadian Jurist Michael De La Bastide in 2011.

PM supports legislation to control tinting PRIME MINISTER RALPH GONSALVES said at a press conference last Monday, that he is open to the removal or reduction in intensity of tint on vehicles here.

The Prime Minister was responding to a question concerning the possibility of having vehicle owners remove or reducing the intensity of tint that they place on their windows and windscreen, as a measure to tackle crime, since there have been a worrying number of The use of heavy tint is cases of commonplace here in SVG. shooting in which the gunmen have escaped in heavily tinted vehicles.

Gonsalves, who is also Minister of Security answered in the affirmative, noting that, once his advisors suggest so, he would go to parliament with the appropriate Bill.

“There are some persons who say yes, that is a problem; then there are some who say no, that is not a problem. But if I get a clear recommendation from the police on this thing … they say, listen this has become a problem; go to the parliament and get rid of this thing with tinting, I will,” said Gonsalves.

“But I understand that there are some (vehicles) where you can’t get off the tint that easily.

“You may propose a solution but there might be some technical issues in relation to it,” Gonsalves added.

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4. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Thrilling 50th Anniversary Cadet Band Concert

A cast, comprised of persons with connect to the band and/or the Cadet Force itself over the years, gave of their best on the night.

The evening’s progamme was split into two segments.

The first featured the current SVG Cadet Force Band performing a Drum Routine and Bugle Marches, and a Lord Have Mercy at his best last SVG Cadet Force Concert Band made Saturday, as he belted out ‘State of of up mainly of past members specially Emergency’. assembled for the anniversary celebrations, who rendered some PERSONS ATTENDING the SVG Cadet soothing classics, like ‘Lean on Me’ and Force Band’s 50th Anniversary Concert ‘Swan Lake’. last Saturday night at the Russell’s Trumpeter Rick Mc Donald and the Auditorium, were given, perhaps, an Joshua Anointed Generation Gospel unexpected musical treat.

Band also performed during this There was no price of admission, segment. but those who accepted ‘the invitation’ The second segment turned to more were thoroughly entertained. upbeat renditions, mixed with a few classical pieces.

M’riah ‘Young Siah’ Robertson rendered Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance’s 2003 hit song ‘The Family’; Andrea Phillips’ lent her voice to Singing Sandra’s ‘Voices from the Ghetto’; Brianca ‘Bria’ Mathias and Zamfir ‘Man Zangie’ Adams combined in a riveting interpretation of Rasum’s 1994 hit — ‘Perseverance’; ‘Zamfir’ then turned solo performer to do ‘Hail Garifuna’, one of the songs that helped him regain the Calypso Monarch earlier this Brian Maloney (left) and Penola Ross, during month. their rendition of the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ One of the foundation theme song.

The SVG Cadet Force Concert Band.

Right: Two of the foundation members - Garth Williams (left) St Clair Leacock.

members of the SVG Cadet Force Band, Michael ‘Lord Have Mercy’ Ollivierre, revived and relived ‘State of Emergency’, one of the numbers with which he won the 1980 National Calypso Competition.

Ollivierre’s now anticipated accompanying antics and theatrics included demonstrations that proved he still was in command of the drills he had learnt many years ago as a cadet.

The calypso cast was backed by the Vikings Band.

An instrumental piece from Omaro Thomas and members of the RSVG Police Force Band added more variety to the evening’s programme.

But it was the combination of Penola Ross and Brian Maloney who brought the house down with an immaculate blending of their voices, as they delivered the theme song of

by HAYDN HUGGINS arrangements were not enough burden ‘Phantom of the Opera’.

The Concert Band, which was under through which to put the journalists, the conduct of Captain Darrien JOURNALISTS COVERING the this reporter had to literally beg for a Ollivierre, closed off the night with Special Sitting (ceremonial) of the programme of the proceedings. their renditions of ‘Hot, Hot, Hot’ and Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) last One would have thought that on ‘Nolo’.

Friday to mark the elevation of such a historic and significant Last Saturday’s Variety Concert Vincentian-born Justice Adrian occasion, marking the elevation of an Saunders to President of the CCJ, may outstanding son of the soil at the first was one of other events to commemorate the band’s golden forever remember the shoddy ever sitting of the CCJ in SVG, anniversary. The release of treatment they received, just as they journalists would have been properly commemorative coin, an awards will always remember the historic accommodated. ceremony in November, a Christmas event.

Some years ago, Justice Odel Concert, are listed as part of a yearIt was clear that there were no Adams (deceased), a former High long celebration. arrangements made for seating Court Judge here, during a sitting of journalists, far less according them the Criminal Assizes, stressed the Genesis of the SVG Cadet Force Band space to manoeuver. significant role the media play in the A Court official, escorting persons to court process by conveying the The SVG Cadet Force Band evolved reserved seats, pointed some reporters information to the public. It was on to an area at the back of the building, Justice Adams’ initiative that a media from the Boys’ Grammar School Drum Corps. where they could sit. This was quite a box was installed on the ground floor Its founding members were Everton distance from where the head table of the High Court building where the was.

Criminal Assizes and Court of Appeal Weekes, Michael Ollivierre, St Clair Leacock, Garth Williams, Donald As though the physical sit.

Shoddy treatment for journalists

Bobb, Peter Fraser, Val Lawrence, John Daisley, Greg Richards, Calvert Ferdinand, Osmond Crichton, and Denzel Stewart and Earl Hazell, both deceased.

Ferdinand credits the late Reverend Allan Kirton for his foresight, which today has seen the SVG Cadet Force Band, a vital national musical ensemble.

He recalled, “Before we even had instruments, Reverend Kirton would have us going to the Grammar School on Saturdays, where we used the desks to learn the various drum patterns.”

The band is said to have made its first public appearance at the Queen’s Birthday Parade on 8th June, 1968.

M’riah ‘Young Siah’ Robertson performing Ipa’s ‘Family.’

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27 , 2018. 5.

Regional

St. Kitts tops 1m Cruise Passengers ST. KITTS’ PORT ZANTE just set a new record for cruise passenger arrivals, welcoming its 1 millionth passenger of 2018 in just the seventh month of the year.

Officials said the milestone gave the island “marquee port status for the first time in its history.”

“I am deeply gratified to welcome over one million cruise passengers to our shores as of today,” said St Kitts Tourism Minister Lindsay Grant.

“It is particularly significant that this historic occasion is taking place now, as we have over two months left in the 2017-2018 cruise season to increase arrivals even further. Reaching this milestone at this point in time is truly a testament to the strength of our relationships with the cruise lines and to the continuing appeal of our tourism product.”

St. Kitts set the new

Port Zante, St. Kitts achieved marque port status for the first time in its history. (Credit: TripAdvisor)

Right: A more than elated St Kitts Tourism Minister Lindsay Grant was on hand to welcome the special visitors and all other guests on the historic making visit of Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas. (Credit: SKN) record with the arrival of 3,782 guests from Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas cruise ship, which docked at Port Zante, July 16.

“In the highly competitive Caribbean cruise marketplace, exceeding the millionpassenger mark for the first time is a highly significant achievement that is a direct result of our successful marketing strategy,” said St Kitts Tourism Authority CEO Racquel Brown. “Having reached this benchmark, St. Kitts is now considered by the cruise lines to be in the same elite port status

category as much larger destinations in the region.

Cruise passengers clearly enjoy our diverse range of activities and friendly, welcoming people, and we are working hard to ensure that we keep the ships and their guests returning to our shores.”

So far this season, Royal Caribbean’s umbrella of cruise brands has brought 102 port calls and more than 350,000 cruise visitors to the island. (Source: Caribbean Journal)

V Dr. Fraser shares experience 6. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Education

DR. NIYAN FRASER was a 1993 General Employees Cooperative Credit Union (GECCU) scholarship winner. He proceeded to the Community College and began his University training in 2000.

A Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus served as a springboard for a Master of Science in Business Administration with a major in Entrepreneurial Management from the

Jonkoping International Business School, Sweden.

He was not done there.

When he returned home in 2017, he had been awarded a PhD in Management and Commerce with a focus on Entrepreneurship, from the Tasmanian School of Business and Economics of the University in Tasmania.

Interestingly, Dr. Fraser taught English at the Intercultura Language School in Costa Rica and used the occasion to learn

Spanish.

Dr. Fraser reflected on his global journey while he addressed GECCU’s batch of 2018 Caribbean Primary Exit Assessment scholarship winners.

He joked about his journey, while giving the address, and confessed that it took him 17 years to complete his university training. He admitted to “trial and errors”, but that “I love what I have done.

“If I had not followed my dreams, I would not have those experiences,”

he outlined.

Dr. Fraser reflected on the theme for this year ‘Author of your destiny’ and concluded that it must have been related to him. His profile and presentation corresponded to the theme.

He encouraged listeners to “design a path for yourself, be open-minded, think outside the box and make sure you broaden your horizons.”

Life has brought home some demands to Fraser,

Dr. Niyan Fraser used his life experiences to encourage the GECCU scholarship recipients to ‘follow their dreams’. and he reminded students that they have to “come to terms with making sacrifices.”

He echoed the trait of “hard work,” and encouraged his listeners to be “happy and accept who you are,” adding, “Take chances and strive to become who you want to be.”

Thirteen students

received this year’s GECCU scholarships.

Five receive PSU assistance Left: PSU 2018 scholarship recipients (L-R): Shenice Joseph, Camella Joslyn, Temal Gopaul, Brianna Thomas and Jamila Thomas.

THERE ARE MORE opportunities available to students today for pursuit of a tertiary level education than existed a decade ago, and persons have no excuse for not grabbing them.

Leroy James, 1st Vice President and Chair of the Education Committee of the Public Service Union (PSU), made the LATONIA comment during PRINCE is the a ceremony held first recipient of last week the Cecil ‘Blazer’ Wednesday, July Williams 18, during which scholarship the Union made award. presentations of She was so its 2018 honoured last scholarships.

Tuesday when the Five students SVG Teachers Cowere awarded operative Credit scholarships Unit (SVGTCCU) that will provide held its annual much needed scholarship help during awards ceremony. their five years The award was at secondary introduced this SVGTCCU Scholarship recipients with President Jimmy Forde (left) year to honour Williams - lawyer, and honoree Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams (right). school, and a poet, novelist and former teacher further two who served for 14 years as the should they Kay Martin-Jack, Senior Community College. A further 67 Credit Union’s President, and as continue on to Education Officer with students received Book Loan one of the highlights of the 40th the St Vincent responsibility for Secondary Vouchers. anniversary celebrations of the and the Education, was on familiar Addressing the recipients, Credit Union.

Grenadines territory. She is past president of President of the SVGTCCU Recipient Prince, a former Community that same institution.

Jimmie Forde urged them to Greiggs Government School College “develop a passion for learning,” She thanked the SVGTCCU for Student, begins her secondary (SVGCC). because in doing so, “you will partnering with the government education at the Girls’ High The five never cease to grow.” in fulfilling the nation’s education School come September. recipients for Some 532 students have Four other scholarships were needs. She noted that SVGTCCU this year are benefitted from SVGTCCU awarded. Those winners were was filling a void.

Temal Gopaul, scholarship/bursary awards Radelia Grant, Donnel White Martin-Jack outlined to the Shenice Joseph, programme amounting to an along with Reshena Morgan of students that their award was not Camella Joslyn, output of some $200,000, Barrouallie, and Kristy Ollivierre a “hand-out”, and that their best Brianna Thomas described by Forde as “an from the Grenadines. expression of gratitude was to and Jamila investment in education aimed at They will receive $1200 each excel as repayment for the Thomas. per term for seven years, up to the nation building.” confidence placed in them. (WKA) According to

SVGTCCU awards special scholarship

Rhea John, guest speaker at the ceremony.

James, the scholarship awardees will receive EC$1,000 for the first two years at secondary school, and books from Forms 3 to 5.

The amount will be increased when the students begin studies at the SVGCC, he said.

He told THE VINCENTIAN that there were 17 applicants this year, and that although not all were able to receive full scholarships, a further seven students each received a bursary payment of EC$100.

Rhea John, a former PSU scholarship recipient, addressed the gathering and testified as to how the assistance she received helped her and her family.

This assistance allowed her to achieve the goals that she had set, and she told the scholarship recipients, “Goals help you to monitor your future.”

The former Girls’ High School student explained how she established short term goals for herself, and then how she set about to achieve them.

The first goal she set for herself was to do well in her O’level examinations, and the second was to gain entry into the University of the West Indies (UWI) and getting a job — both of which she has also achieved. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 7.

News

Mini-bus causes off road damage

The bus was on Reynold Morgan its way to Vermont (inset) will work with when the incident the insurance occurred. company towards Reynold Morgan, having his property the head of a repaired. household of eight whose home was see the van damaged, said the coming towards incident happened me. I bawl around 7am, Tuesday cause I want to morning. know what “I now go and talk to going on, I had The mini-bus came to Ali (my daughter) then to run,” said a rest between two put on some toothpaste Morgan, a residences situated on my toothbrush and hypertension case. below the main road. when I come back out I In the process, damage was done to Morgan’s property.

When THE VINCENTIAN visited IF PRIME MINISTER Opposition Senator consumers through the scene, electrical lines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ Marcia Barnwell, in hire purchase galvanize sheeting and suggestion is accepted, prefacing a question arrangements, bricks were strewn lawyers here might soon relating to the issue, consumer across the floor of the find themselves having accused the government protection, and for porch of Morgan’s to dip into their pockets of failing or refusing to persons facing property, and there was matters related to to help fund a Legal Aid provide legal aid to offences in excess of five protection orders or damage to the galvanise Programme (LAP). women who seek years. sheeting of the roof. issues relating to Dr. Gonsalves, who is protection orders in the “The problem, though, children, and other It was also noticeable also Minister of Legal Family Court, and is that legal aid, as we that a portion of an issues involving Affairs, proposed a five children who came in have seen in the United disadvantaged persons, exterior wall of the shop to seven percent levy on conflict with the law.

Kingdom, costs a lot of area had all but Dr. Gonsalves added. the income earned by Dr. Gonsalves agreed money. We have legal disappeared with the He noted that there lawyers, to go towards that there was a need for aid at the moment for impact of the vehicle, was need for more study the funding a LAP. legal aid in both capital offence … if you and some items in the on the issue of legal aid While he accepted instances, and went as do not have a lawyer in a — the setting up and shop were destroyed. that the lawyers were far as to say that it murder case, one would The vehicle had financing of such a quite right to call for a ought to cover issues be appointed for you by settled in the yard system.

LAP, “We have to find surrounding the eviction the court and the state between the two The areas that would money for it,” Dr. of individuals by will pay,” Gonsalves said qualify for legal aid must buildings and was Gonsalves said. landlords, taking in his response. be prioritized, Gonsalves hanging precariously The issue of a LAP advantage of poor people Legal counsel is also over a stream. suggested, so as to surfaced during the June through usury by money provided by the Office of prevent lawyers from Morgan told THE 28 Sitting of Parliament. lenders, ripping off the Attorney General, in ripping off the system.

VINCENTIAN that while RESIDENTS OF BOOM Boom, Lowmans Leeward, are still at a loss as to how the driver of a mini-bus escaped serious injury last Tuesday, when the bus he was driving hit two other vehicles before careening off the road, coming to a stop only after damaging at least two residences.

Lawyers should help fund legal aid

the owner of the minibus had offered to repair the damage, he preferred to go through the safer channel of coming to an agreement with the insurance company with which the vehicle was insured.

“I go like the insurance to come to me and let me give them an estimate,” said Morgan, on how best he feels the matter could be settled.

In the meantime, Morgan, said to be in his 70s, is hoping to have his electricity and other utilities restored.

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8. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

Mandela Highway: A Greater Calling SO, WHAT WE REFERRED to as the South Leeward Highway is now the Nelson Mandela Highway. Proceed as planned – no questions asked. Accept it… you have no choice.

In so doing, we have brought some ‘level of correction’ to an anomaly that was allowed to almost become acceptable.

If the truth be told, the reference to a South Leeward Highway was always a loose one, as if to say, ‘It would work itself out with time’. It didn’t, and we continued on our merry way, fooling if not misinforming ourselves.

For, how in Zeus’ name could a stretch of road be called the South Leeward Highway when in fact a large portion of it passed through West Kingstown?

How many of us truly knew to what we referred when we spoke of the South Leeward Highway? From where to where?

Taxi drivers, tourist guides, minibus drivers might be call into immediate play. Do you know where this highway began and ended?

So, we take it, that now that we have named a portion of road of one of our main roadways after an esteemed human being like Nelson Mandela, that we took out our tape measures, our maps and theodolites (ask Bassy about this) and moved towards getting this Highway clearly surveyed, clearly defined and demarcated on our maps.

Done deal. And in the process, we have admitted to the anomaly, that we had otherwise misinformed ourselves, but that we have timely (convenient) reason to make the necessary correction.

Now to the attachment of the name of one of modern history’s foremost figures, to a portion of road here.

Let it be known that this is not the first portion of road in CARICOM that carries the name of the esteemed gentleman. There is a Mandela Highway in Jamaica which, as we speak, is undergoing considerable improvement/ expansion. There is also a Park named in his honour in Jamaica.

If the truth be told, there are

numerous portions of road across the globe now carrying some reference to Mandela, not to mention buildings, parks, etc.

SVG, therefore, is not the first and will not be the last country to find some way of paying homage to his humanity and spirit, which, unquestionably, spread across the globe in a fulfilling manner, encouraging hope to all oppressed, marginalized, abused, victimized and powerless people.

That has to be our purpose for bringing the name of Nelson Mandela into our daily lives, even in this seemingly whimsical manner.

It should be that that expression of naming something in his honour is meant to encourage us to acquaint ourselves with the life story of this great man, so that he (his life) will be an inspiration to us and generations of Vincentians to come.

That under his gaze, we will rise to be truthful to ourselves and others, and make meaningful changes in our lives.

That we will forsake the immorality that we pass off as the norm, and look to correct the evil intentions we bring to bear on our young women especially and to women in general.

That we will recognize the wisdom of his life, especially as it relates to treating foe and friend with the respect due them as humans, and as humans as equally gifted as we might think we are.

That we will be liberated from the bondage of our class, ethnic/cultural and political biases and wake up to the realization that we are equal in the face of whatever God we behold.

That we will ensure that opportunity is spread equally across the board, and those who have been entrusted with some authority over our goods/services, will refrain from acts of cronyism, favouritism, nepotism, and distance themselves from the adage that ‘some pigs are more equal than others’.

The naming of a portion of road in Nelson Mandela’s name certainly calls us to a higher reckoning and accountability, lest we are misled once again.

Reflections on the state funeral of Yvonne Francis-Gibson IN MY 80 YEARS spent on this earth, I could truly say that Yvonne was a member of my closest circle of friends which I could count on one of my hands.

I attended her funeral service in unaccustomed style, being chauffeured in a car sent to me by one of those five friends, Arnhim Eustace, and driven by a man I have grown to respect and admire, Kenlyn.

I could sense that the Kingstown Methodist Church was packed to overflowing, and was taken to my seat up front, on the way to which several persons greeted me, including Yvonne’s son whom I lovingly embraced as he reminded me who he was.

On the whole, the service was a song of praise, punctuated by tributes, most of which drew deafening applause as they wafted over some reminisces that touched the soul of the congregation.

All the speakers, to varying degrees, hit the right notes that summed up the manifold gifts of Yvonne. All believed that some object should be made to bear Yvonne’s name, of which a past president of the SVUT, Oswald Robinson, brought the house down, with uproarious approval that Yvonne should be considered as a National Hero of SVG. In fact, my suggestion was only seconded by Mr. Robinson! I had expressed, over Nice Radio’s New Times programme at about 11am, some five hours before it was actually reinforced at the burial service, the same thought by which Yvonne was to be made the fifth National Hero. Great minds do think alike!

As to Ralph, he is looking for some educational building which will bear the name of Yvonne Francis-Gibson. When I had suggested the Resource Centre at Cane Hall be named after Yvonne, I discovered that it was reserved for Doris Mc Kie, to pave the way for the entry of her son to ULP candidacy!

What was unstated was that Yvonne had been a Prison graduate of the Teacher’s march, operated out of her office as matron of a “house of Infamy”, as described in the ‘Star’ newspaper, so much so that ULP on taking office had to deprive her and close allies Patrice Reddock and ex ASP Wright, of their JP insignia!

But after 18 years in the wilderness, the persistence of her popularity and near-election situation, the PM can find a school for her as a consolation prize. It is probable that the dead Yvonne might wield more politically powerful than when alive.

Past PM and Ex President of the NDP, Sir James Mitchell, in his outspoken contribution, put on show evidence of the manifold gifts of Yvonne, along with his usual political jibes at Ralph which found their mark judging from outburst of acclamation.

One noted that the ULP tries to eat their cake and have it still, by creating a living hell, then turn around, apologise, sing praises, even erect halos around the heads of the victims when they die. Examples abound: GovernorGeneral Antrobus had to “take the heat, having been found in the kitchen”, and as a heart patient had his car rocked by ULP thugs outside the parliament building. At his state funeral, P.M Dr. Gonsalves was full of praise in his embroidered oration! Saluche, like Bishop Edmund John, was deprived of government help. Elwardo E.G Lynch’s humiliating apology was refused by Ralph amid nasty slurs. But at their funerals, they earned the salutation of the self-same Ralph E Gonsalves. One can add that Yvonne’s last husband, secretary of the NDP Kelvin Gibson, was also hounded to the grave by the threats of libel hung like the sword of Damocles over his head.

Altogether, Yvonne received a hero’s send off as this Viking ship on fire headed for the horizons. Monty Maule superintended the farewell with all gusto that he could muster. My love goes out especially to Yvonne’s son, adopted daughter and sister Mrs. Bailey, Sylvia Sutherland, her god children including my own daughter Oneka, and her extended family. We are all thankful for having enjoyed the blessed company of Yvonne for over four score years.

Au Revoir.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 9.

Letters

Not in my wildest dream NEVER in my wildest dream would I have seen a St. Vincent and the Grenadines in which, by six o’clock in the evening, all my windows and doors, all reinforced by burglar proof bars, are shut for the night.

Never in my wildest dream would I have seen a St. Vincent and the Grenadines

in which I, as a retired public officer, would not dare venture out of my house, whether it is for a social reason or even to attend a church function.

Never in my wildest dream would I have seen a St. Vincent and the Grenadines in which I would not have felt

safe, all by myself, in my own house/home.

Mr. Editor, I have requested that you withhold my name because, never in my wildest dream would I have seen a St. Vincent and the Grenadines in which I would be fearful of having my real name attached to a

‘Letter to the Editor’.

My children have not stopped encouraging me to migrate, but tell me: What would a 70+-year-old female do in a place like America?

I honestly felt that my home, St. Vincent, would be the best place to live out my twilight years. My, my! How

wrong I have been.

Yet, amidst all the crime that has caused this fear, I will not leave.

I’ll be inside my home — more like a jail these days — but I refuse to be run out of here.

‘Retiree’

Take note of Donald Trump Invest in Universities HOPE THAT Vincy had another clean, safe and enjoyable Carnival.

But, Mr. Editor, this one is not about carnival.

This one is about Donald Trump. I know, there are many here in Jamaica and home in SVG who would say: Why bother with Trump?

He is America’s problem.

The truth is that Trump, because he is the

That OAS vote MR. EDITOR, I see that we have once again lined up behind Venezuela in a vote at the OAS. I understand that the vote was about condemning the highhandedness of the Government in Nicaragua which if we voted in favour of, would have taken a stance against the Government there.

Now everyone knows that Venezuela under Maduro and Nicaragua under Ortega have socialist governments. Is it that when we line up behind Venezuela and Nicaragua that we are saying we are a socialist government here in SVG? I never knew people were asked to vote for any socialist party here.

I think the Ralph Gonsalves government needs to find out what the real feelings are among Vincentians about the behavior of the governments in Venezuela and Nicaragua, before he goes out there and votes on our behalf.

Charles Ediboro

President of the most powerful nation on earth and leader of the world’s largest economy, is all the more reason why we have to take note of what he says and what he does or might do.

Trump went recently to Europe, home of America’s closest allies, and declared that Britain was losing its culture because of immigration.

Then he shakes hands with Putin of Russia and blames the US Democratic Party for all the election irregularities and lays no blame at the feet of Russia for meddling in the election process in the USA. Some might want to conclude that Trump is simply a dunce, has no knowledge of or does not understand history, has no feelings for others and

has no clue about diplomacy and governance.

I want to say that unlike the above, Donald Trump is a very smart man who knows how to get others to believe that he is stupid and therefore, not of any concern. I think he is very much aware of what he does and says, and he seems to have a plan for America and the world that might not be a good one for people like us.

A friend of mine told me when I discussed this with him, that I might just be right, and he hopes more people would wake up to Trump’s tricks, since the last time a man like Trump surfaced in the world, the world ignored him.

That man, my friend told me, was Adolf

Hitler, and his utterances and actions led to the Second World War. My friend had me stunned. Lord help us!

Paul Jamaica

Truth will trigger opposition THIS BROKEN world does not always care for others. Sometimes our efforts to speak the truth or our sincerity in trying to live with integrity, meets with a lot of opposition. We experience intense hostility from leaders within our own faith.

Notwithstanding, I must emphasize that a Christian must live a life of integrity.

In this damaged society, the church must play a more meaningful role in our country’s welfare. We have left it up to political leaders of whom many have lost their way. Our integrity is of greatest concern.

The fact is that our brothers and sisters in Christ, sadly and hurtfully, attack each other, and our higgledypiggledy political

associates are laughing at us, because we have lost our way in the Lord.

I am pleading that the body of Christ take stock — more so our leaders.

We must report to God and to our congregation, whom God entrusts us to lead. We might hurt each other at times, sometimes intentionally sometimes unintentionally. We will disappoint each other, but that’s no excuse to stop fellowshipping together or to side-line each other. We are a family, even when we don’t act like it. We can’t just walk out on each other. We are all imperfect in this life, and need faith to take us through each level.

I will leave us with some things to think about.

1. People who gossip

to you will also gossip about you.

2. Ask: What must I do to protect unity in my church family now?

3. We must change the way we think about others.

4. We must put on the character of Christ by developing new, Godly hearts.

5. Spiritual maturity is neither instant nor automatic. It is a gradual progressive development throughout the rest of our lives.

6. The way we think determines the way we feel; and the way we feel influences the way we act.

7. We must passionately love the church in spite of its imperfections. John 8: 32 Bishop Ezekiel Creese Faith Word Ministries

I AM CALLING for the immediate development of two universities in SVG, with a combined capacity to accommodate twenty thousand students.

This call is predicated on the fact that expansion in high education has played a major role in fueling economic growth around the world. Data on 15,000 universities in 78 countries for the period since 1950 show a strong positive impact of university expansion on regional economic growth, with the number of universities in a region raising the future GDP per capita by 4%. The benefits of university expansion far outweighs the cost.

Closer home, St. George’s University in Grenada is said to generate over 20 % of that country’s GDP. Whatever, it is a fact that the University has played a leading role in the current upturn of Grenada’s. It has added a bright smile to Grenada’s night life, hotels, restaurants, taxi operators, shopping centre, home sales and infrastructural development/construction.

While Grenadians smile, Vincentians languish in economic darkness.

We need to invest in university development.

Not only will this bring short term benefits (jobs) to the economy, but moreso, long term benefits that will impact positively on the economy and cater to the * Was the next generation.

Leader of the Opposition officially Kadmiel McFee invited to that Independent Politician cocktail in honour of Justice Adrian Saunders? * Was the list of invitees to that cocktail trimmed because the original number had exceeded what the caterers said they could handle? * Why are people asking if the Carnival Season has been officially lengthened with all those after-carnival carnivals in rural areas? * (On behalf of a reader) How much if any of all that $$ seized from a certain person who is now in prison was used to fight crime?

Did the $$ just go into government coffers and disappear?

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Small country…Big Footprint Yvonne Francis-Gibson – A

IT IS AN ACCEPTED FACT that Vincentians are feeling good about their country. Here and there, whenever groups of Vincentians gather, at parties, at popular bars, on the beaches or rivers, there is generally a discussion on the state of our country. The comments are generally very favourable, but here and there, a few people with political agendas, try to be negative.

The plain truth is that St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a virtually “two by four country”, with no natural resources like oil or gold or silver, has established a big footprint on the world stage. In the Caribbean, and particularly among CARICOM member-states, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is regarded as an influential country, principled in its approach to issues of socio economic development, and foreign relations.

Without a doubt, this change in the way Vincentians now perceive their country, began in 2001, when they voted the ULP into office. The ULP was like a breath of fresh air, bringing hope and sustained economic progress to a country, to replace the period of doom and gloom that we endured, under the NDP and Sir James Mitchell. Sometimes we tend to forget some of the dismal things the ULP had to correct when it assumed office in 2001.

Our infrastructure was in tatters, with schools, police stations and clinics in a state of disrepair. The ULP fixed this. Our country was on a blacklist for various reasons. The ULP fixed that. Schools in the state had to endure a shift system, with an estimated sixty-eight percent of our primary school students unable to access secondary school education.

The ULP fixed all that. Government ministers were misusing their offices, purchasing State land in the Grenadines at knockdown prices, getting “sweetheart mortgages” at the National Commercial Bank, and using State-owned transportation as their own. The ULP fixed all that too.

pioneer for WomenÊs Rights

after by leaders in the Caribbean and further afield. He has written several books and articles as befitting his position as the longest serving Prime Minister in CARICOM. He has been invited to be the guest speaker at so many prestigious events that it is hard to keep track. Many organizations and groups have been disappointed not to have him as their guest speaker, simply because there is not enough time in a day, for him to attend these speaking engagements, and still do the job which he has been elected to do.

His leadership and vision have led to some amazing achievements in the country, including the construction of a bridge over the Rabacca Dry River, the construction of the international airport at Argyle, and the Education Revolution that has led to some profound changes in the learning process for our young Vincentians.

What a Prime Minister!

Conclusion

This is a period when we are proud to be Vincentians. We can boast of a country that is well led, with a strong caring government, with a clear philosophy related to the socio economic development of the country.

The opposition New Democratic Party, led by Godwin Friday, knows that it has no answer to the ULP and Comrade Ralph. Within the hearts and minds of the NDP and their supporters, is a feeling that the country is well led, and that the ULP is the natural party of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

You will recall an incident at a town hall meeting held by the NDP in New York just before the 2015 general election. At that time, a member of the audience asked the former leader, Big Footprint Arnhim Eustace about his party’s fifteen-year development plan for St. As Vincentians, we have come to Vincent and the Grenadines. Eustace, the realization that we are a poor fellow, was at a loss to respond, magnificent component of our since his party had no such thing. He independent authentic Caribbean was, therefore, forced to offer up the civilization, with the knowledge that lame response, “Ask Ralph”. Indeed, there is scope for even further this is a shameful answer to a most ennoblement. At the campuses of the important question related to a University of the West Indies, we critical issue, the economic number more students than all development of the country. The NDP countries, save and except the host could only say “Ask Ralph”. country. Our students rise every year The truth is that the NDP is to become valedictorians at experiencing what some people call graduation exercises at the UWI. Our “learned helplessness”. The ULP has diplomats have done outstanding published its twelve-year National work particularly at the posts at the Economic and Social Development United Nations, the United States, Plan, 2013 to 2025. It is available to Canada, Cuba and the United the public in hard copy, and can be Kingdom. Now the country is poised found on the government’s website, to become the smallest nation state to www.gov.vc. be voted as a non-permanent member The ULP offers continued hope to of the United Nations Security the people of St. Vincent and the Council. What an achievement that Grenadines, accompanied by a rewill be! affirmation of our faith in God, made At the centre of this big footprint is manifest in the deeds of our people, in the political leader of the ULP, Prime tandem with each other and their Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, leadership, so as to enable us to affectionately known as “The achieve mighty things, individually Comrade”. As the leader of the and collectively, as a nation. country, he has provided direction and As a small country, we will guidance as the country exhibits this continue to leave big footprints. big footprint. His advice is sought

FORMER GOVERNMENT MINISTER and Parliamentary Representative for West St. George, Yvonne Francis-Gibson, was laid to rest on Monday 23rd July. In his tribute at the funeral service, President of the New Democratic Party (NDP), Dr. Godwin Friday, described Yvonne Francis-Gibson as a trailblazer for women’s rights; one who fought for equality for women in our country. She was the first coordinator of the Department of Women’s Affairs. Through this department, Vincentian women advanced significantly under the former NDP government.

When the Department of Women’s Affairs was created, its mandate was to address issues of discrimination and violence against Vincentian women. The department served as both policy advisor and implementer to the government on gender and development issues. It worked in very close collaboration with the National Council of Women (NCW). Not only did it work in very close collaboration with the NCW, but both a subvention and office were provided for the Council. Also, the Department worked closely with the National Commission for Gender Equity and Equality, which cushioned the work of the department by providing guidance and support since it constituted representatives from private, public and the NGO sectors. An amended draft national policy on women was developed, as well as a domestic violence policy.

Under successive NDP administrations, the CARICOM model was adhered to, with the enactment at the local level of legislation based on the CARICOM model. Under the NDP, Women’s Affairs was part of an inter-ministerial committee that worked to develop and implement programmes for education, youth and sports, which in turn promoted efficiency, transparency, good governance and got rid of duplication and wasted human and financial resources. , however, every department works in isolation. It appears that the role of the Unity Labour Party regime is to get out of women’s way, when compared to the excellent example set by the NDP administrations from 1984 to 2001. The NDP government cleared the obstacle of unequal pay through the passage of the Equal Pay Act. Also, during that period, the NDP administration attempted to level the playing field through land ownership quotas. Women raised their status by taking advantage of the 38% women’s ownership quota in the distribution of lands at Orange Hill and the provision of 8%-interest mortgages to women at the National Commercial Bank.

Another obstacle to women which the NDP removed was the Coutts Agreement, which required women teachers to resign upon pregnancy.

Moreover, under the NDP, for the first time, married women could file income tax returns independent of their husbands. It was the NDP that introduced the tax-free allowance.

Under the NDP, NGOs wrote their proposals and sought funding directly from funding agencies. Now it is all done through the government and often blocked, mishandled and/or stymied by this administration.

Some other achievements of the former NDP government were the

amendment of the Matrimonial Homes Act which provided equal right to each spouse to occupy the matrimonial home, thus protecting each against eviction, except where the court so order; the passing of the Maintenance Act which made financial provision for dependants and custody of children born in or out of wedlock; the Domicile Act which allowed for a married woman to have independent domicile to her spouse, and abolished a wife’s dependent domicile; the Family Court was established and became fully operational in 1995 - the first of its kind in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States. And It was the NDP government that made provision for women to seek redress in relation to matrimonial matters, domestic violence, rape and other matters or incidents.

Today there is a Gender Affairs Division with staff and allocation under the Estimates, which appears to have no on-going programmes.

Issues are treated on an ad hoc basis.

For example, the anniversary of the Convention and International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is reason to host events, but there is no sustained programme of activities or interventions by the Division, so nothing happens.

Although there is more staff at the Division, the capacity and output are far from adequate. Under the ULP, there is little or no sex- or genderspecific data collection by the Division to assist the tailoring of policies either. In the absence of women’s and domestic violence policies, there are and can be no structured programs.

The cumulative effect is that successive ULP administrations have actively set back the women’s agenda.

With a government possessed of neither the track record, moral authority to engage nor inclination to listen to women, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will continue to cannibalize women and children.

Women and children shall continue to be objectified; exploited as cheap labour; sexually harassed; discouraged from becoming opposition candidates; subject to the ridicule of other women; told by women parliamentarians that one of their breasts is to suckle a child and the other is for the comfort of a man; and horse-traded for rent and promotion; blamed for their own violation when warned about the clothes they wear. The ULP administration must be held to account for its treatment of women, by the nation.

It is obvious that women achieved significantly under the former NDP administration, and Yvonne Francis played a critical role in advancing women’s agenda in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Indeed, she was a pioneer for women’s rights. The NDP is committed to the development of women in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and will advance their agenda as it did when it was in office.

The NDP will make St. Vincent and the Grenadines work for all Vincentians.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 11.

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Strong men

“Let’s be very clear: Strong men - men who are truly role models - don’t need to put down women to make themselves feel powerful. People who are truly strong lift others up. People who are truly powerful bring others together.” Michelle Obama (born 1964); wife of America’s 44th President Barak Obama.

MICHELLE OBAMA’S quotation draws attention to the all too familiar episodes of people who go out of their way to discredit and/or insult others. Her comments are especially directed at men who behave in such a manner in relation to women; small men, insecure men, weak men who think that they elevate themselves by pulling women down. However, her comments go much deeper. She highlights the fact that there are people (male and female) who incorrectly assume that by pulling others down they raise themselves.

Such individuals perpetuate the “crab-inthe-barrel syndrome”.

Many of my generation enjoyed hunting crabs during our pre-youth phase of development. This was especially so on moonlight nights (when we were better able to see in the dark). The area that presently houses the George McIntosh Market in Paul’s Avenue, Kingstown, was once well populated with crabs. We often baited our wooden crab traps with pieces of mango, in an attempt to capture these unsuspecting ten-legged crustaceans (note that the first pair of legs contain claws that are used for gathering food and/or for defence).

On other occasions, we would use a flambeau, lantern, or battery-operated flashlight to startle them when they were out of their crab holes. The braver among us would then venture to grab the crab by its back (making sure that the claws did not clamp down on their fingers). Occasionally, an adventurous crab hunter would venture to place a hand into the carb’s hole in an attempt to pull the creature out. These skilful (some will say “foolish”) hunters would boast that the technique involves making sure that your hand remains flat along the roof of the hole thereby making it difficult (but not impossible) for the creature to grasp a finger. The captured crabs would then be placed in a bag or bucket as they awaited the cleansing/purging phase. The crabs would then be placed in a large metal or plastic barrel where they would be fed pepper leaves and water grass.

Invariably they will climb on each other’s back in an effort to escape.

However, in doing so, they invariably pulled each other down. Hence the expression, having a “crab-in-thebarrel attitude” — individuals who pull each other down.

Psychologists and social scientists will tell us that individuals who go out of their way to insult and belittle others are insecure. On the other hand, the secure, self-confident individual does not need to massage their egos or deflate others in an effort to generate a sense of accomplishment. They experience a sense of satisfaction when they engage in activities that build others.

These are big, strong men (not being gender specific here).

It’s time for our own final court Strong, effective, and noble individuals look for opportunities to build skills in others. They dedicate the time and make the effort to mentor and model others to success.

Our societies are crying out for leaders who would accept this challenge to build others up rather than to seek to tear others down.

Peter Ferdinand Drucker (1909-2005), who was an outstanding academic and author, reminded us that one of the major roles and responsibilities of a leader is to enhance the strengths and talents of each individual. He reminds us that, “Leadership is not magnetic personality - that can just as well be a glib tongue. It is not making friends and influencing people - that is flattery. Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to higher sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.” We need strong men and women in leadership positions who will lift person’s vision to higher sights. Such leaders will motivate and inspire others to excel at all that is noble; taking them beyond their greatest expectations. They will encourage persons to believe in themselves and to pursue their dreams will passion; with gusto.

Insecure leaders will grovel to and encourage the crab-in-the-barrel activities. Intoxicated by their inflated egos and insecurities, they engage in destroying rather than building. They destroy relationships.

They encourage divisions and decisiveness. They spark enmity between those of different views.

Regrettably, we see such behaviours demonstrated oh so often in politicians at home and abroad. Many realise that if they can get their supporters (or potential supporters) emotionally charged, they can create a great swell of support as a result of the negative campaigning. Their utterances focus on igniting the base emotions of prejudice, envy, and greed. However, once these emotions are unleashed, it becomes very difficult to get the genie back into the bottle. Modern examples in Europe and the United States of America confirm the dangers of such emotionally charged (and prejudicially driven) campaigning. Our leaders, and especially our politicians, therefore need to proceed with caution and wisdom when they seek to garner support for their causes. And since we all play leadership roles from time to time, it behooves each of us to consider how our words and actions influence others. We should constantly focus on building people up; not pulling them down. We should seek to inspire others to aspire to their noble dreams; not deflate and demotivate them. We must forever strive to be strong men and strong women as we focus on building better lives, communities, better nations, and a better world.

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

THE ABSOLUTE WORST argument tabled to date about St Vincent accepting the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as its final court is that our own Adrian Saunders is currently the president. This argument is so devoid of merit, that we need not spend time debating. All we will say is that nationalism is a dangerous snare from which we should stay clear.

The people of St Vincent and the Grenadines, especially its politicians, should offer tangible support to Adrian Saunders’ presidency by making the CCJ, our country’s final court, not because he is a Vincentian, but because he is one of our finest sons. Adrian Saunders and the CCJ should be supported because all its judges are possessed of the necessary independence of mind, training, scholarship, honesty, discipline, commitment to the rule of law and due process, transparency, democracy and open government, human rights and the protection of minority rights.

The judges on the court are equally committed to protect all of us from the tyranny of the majority.

There is not a shred of evidence to the contrary. We should support the court because its judges are qualified to do the job that judges do: listen to arguments, read and understand the cases presented in support of the respective positions and render decisions without fear or favour.

Judges are human beings. They make mistakes. All judges, including those who sit on the British Privy Council, are liable to be influenced by their origins, upbringing, education, friends, class, status, philosophical outlook and training. Most judges are honest and try their very best to ensure that all of the above influences are minimized as they listen to cases and pass judgment. But make no mistake about it, judges are not bots.

They sometimes get things wrong. It is part of the human condition. We have not yet arrived at God status.

There is no getting away from the fact that people have misgivings about the state of justice in our Caribbean.

But the Caribbean is not unique in this regard. Take the current debate taking place in the United States around who should sit on the Supreme Court. Apart from the issue of influence of lobbyist of law making and judicial decisions, is the vexed question of the philosophical and jurisprudential moorings of the justices. Some are more supportive of the power of big business and less protective of individual rights and freedoms, but no one in the USA calls for a substitution of British, European, or Caribbean judges or courts in place of their own.

The cry that justice has two faces is universal. We cannot get away from the fact that access to justice is conditioned on how much money you have and indeed who you know. In St Vincent, across our region and indeed the world, the poor have a persistent cry relating to abuses and exploitation, especially by lawyers.

The horror stories here that are too numerous to detail. But these sad tales should not stop us from adopting the Caribbean Court of Justice as our

final court. Our people must not let the rich and privileged who could afford the expenses of travel to Britain to throw dust in their face on this matter. In most cases, our people may not even have cases that reach the CCJ. More than 85 percent of our legal matters are decided in the magistrate courts. Therefore, in the same way, we cannot blame the Privy Council for whatever perceived injustice that is meted out to us here, it’s the same way we cannot use those as an argument against the CCJ. The same argument holds true for cases that go to the high court or even the Court of Appeal. At least we can get to our appeal court which comes to SVG at least 3 times per year. With the Privy Council, the matter is completely different. In the last 30 years, only 21 cases from St Vincent went to the Privy Council in England.

That’s a ratio of less than one case per year. Of the 12 cases which were paid for by citizens, our Court of Appeal was overturned 4 times. This means that the Privy Council decided that our court, the same court that we love to hate, was correct on 67 percent of the time.

Apart from the fact that our Court of Appeal has been found by the Privy Council to make good law and arrived at the correct decision at a very high rate, is the issue of remoteness of the Privy Council. The council, located 8 hours flying time away, affects access.

The exorbitant cost, which can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, takes the Privy Council out of the reach of the vast majority of citizens.

Contrast this reality with what we saw recently when the CCJ met on a Sunday, where the judges sat in Trinidad and the litigant and his attorneys in Barbados dealt a major blow against a government in affirming the rights of Caribbean citizens, who met the residency criteria to vote.

Let the truth be told. The CCJ will not solve all of our legal problems.

Justice Saunders is on record lamenting the sad state of our judicial system, particularly as it relates to access to justice. We have a long way to go, but none of our problems should prevent us from acceding to the appellate jurisdiction of the CCJ. Plain Talk has long supported a home grown Caribbean court. At the most basic level, to claim independence and argue that your final court must reside in a foreign country, thousands of miles away, is to assume or conclude that those men or women are mentally superior to our judges in our Caribbean.

Like Errol Barrow, the former Barbadian Prime Minister said, none of us should be found loitering on colonial premises past closing time.

It’s time for our own court.

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

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Ivan O’Neal calls for resignation of PM Gonsalves and Leader of the Opposition Dr. Friday RESEARCH by Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA and Leader of SVG Green Party has revealed that PM Gonsalves and Leader of the Opposition Friday have both been flouting Section 76 of the SVG 1979 Constitution, by blatantly and knowingly not providing Public Accounts Committee reports.

There has not been one SVG House of Assembly Public Accounts Committee report between 2001 and 2018. The Public Accounts Committee reports are mandated under Section 76 of the SVG 1979 Constitution.

The Public Accounts Committee is required to consider the public accounts in conjunction with the report of the SVG 1979 constitutionally-appointed Director of Audit’s reports, and in particular, report to the SVG House of Assembly with respect to: (a) In the case of any excess or unauthorised expenditure of public funds, the reason for such expenditure and measures it considers necessary in order to ensure that public funds are

properly spent. (b) And such other duties relating to the public accounts as the House of Assembly may from time to time direct.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, the need for the Public Accounts Committee is critical, and it makes sure that public funds are spent correctly. No one is above the law, and the Public Accounts Committee is the public’s watch-dog, to safeguard accountability and transparency in using public funds, and to make sure the spending is in accordance with the law.

According to Ivan O’Neal, SVG has a very serious constitutional problem, in that, the Public Accounts Committee has not been functioning for over 17 years, because neither the ULP regime nor the NDP opposition has any members of Parliament that are university graduates in Accounting and Finance and Economics, and are not competent enough to write a professional Public Accounts Committee report.

a going concern. As such, Gonsalves and Friday must resign.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, very strongly contends that the non-operation of the Public Accounts Committee is totally unacceptable, and emergency They have no one within their teams with the competence to analyse measures should have been put in place by the ULP regime and the NDP public spending adequately and produce a Public Accounts Committee opposition to bring into Parliament at report for the SVG House of Assembly, least one Senator who has the necessary university qualifications and and by extension, for the people of ability to analyse public expenditure SVG. towards providing a high-quality Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc Public Accounts Committee report for (Hons), MSc, MBA, who has a BSc Parliament and the people of SVG. (Hons) degree in Accounting and Gonsalves and Friday have shown Finance and Economics from Brookes that when the Government is weak University, Oxford, England, believes and the Opposition is weak, the SVG that there has to be a competent and economy is weak. SVG needs a Public highly qualified Public Accounts Accounts Committee now.

Committee Chairman to make sure public funds are spent legally, and to revive the SVG stagnant economy into SVG Green Party

‘Sent from overseas’: A Review ‘SENT FROM OVERSEAS’ is an important Caribbean novel, because it addresses the phenomenon of a developed country’s interests and influence, infiltrating the local landscape; in this case corporate culture and business mediums.

Author Gurley gives it a face, a character, and educates accordingly.

What gives this work authenticity, is that it is a non-fiction novel and sheds light on the behind the scenes maneuvering between local directive and foreign interests, and the scene for this information is set through author Rudy Gurley’s experiences as a corporate manager with Cable and Wireless (subsequently LIME and now Flow).

Featured at the onset are the corporate wars between C & W and Digicel, hot on the heels of the Digicel take over in Jamaica in the early 2000s.

These events may not seem to be, to the majority of laymen, important enough to sustain interest; it is Gurley’s total approach which includes social portrait and clash, as much as Office Politics in vivid, objectively laid out events and descriptive power, so that the reader is thoroughly entertained all the way to the nail-biting finish.

We have the regulatory wars, the dynamic between the local, regional, and international policies.

The antagonist in the novel is a formidable villain in gradually revealed tradition of racism. Peter Dawson, the villain, betrays the international directive of temporary management of Cable and Wireless at a non-interference level, so that his agenda of takeover of the island, in terms of business and ‘simple crime’, becomes increasingly evident.

C & W St. Vincent is highlighted in comparison to the author’s home base St. Lucia, as ‘a market less lucrative nonetheless’, in which ethics and values are apparent -not so in St. Lucia, where the English Dawson stakes his claim.

Significantly, Dawson attempts to

piggy back on Gurley’s high profile status in the culture and entrepreneurial milieu of St. Lucia to get governmental inroads, including with Prime Minister Kenny Anthony, in order to promote his agenda. He intimidates Gurley and issues directives not specified by the U K instruction, assign duties and sets out to destroy Gurley’s ethical policies for promotion and management of the local group.

Gurley’s retaliatory tools are espoused by his love of positive thinking and psychology manuals such as ‘the 48 laws of Power’ by Robert Greaves. He bides his time in spiritual fashion and maintains ‘guided’ dignified responses in his run-ins with Dawson and his group of expats, thanks to this know how.

Dawson imitates Colonial slave masters of the past history of the Caribbean, by targeting liaisons within Gurley’s C & W much in the same way in modern context of the way Slave Owners in the past separated families, by relocating competent employees, and using the pregnancy of one worker as basis for discontinuance.

The style differs from the author’s debut novel ‘A Caribbean tale’; more incisive, confident and contemporary, indicative of the author’s commitment to an ethical modus operandi.

In the Millennium- thanks to internet and technology, the negative foreign element in other areas besides the cell phone companies, such as music, television and sports (of which there is reference in terms of C & W’s association with cricket sponsorship), signals this book as an in-depth portrait of the darker side of cultural invasion.

Available at Gaymes Book Shop, it is a must-read for the Caribbean patriot. As one reviewer noted, St. Lucia has produced two Nobel Laureates, and that the perspective of this novel, in terms of the Caribbean response, reflects a side of the Caribbean consciousness not often portrayed. (CK)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27 , 2018. 13.

Business

Flow sets the summer ablaze CUSTOMERS are in for a blazing summer with Flow.

This was guaranteed when the telecommunications power house launched its summer promotion, aptly dubbed ‘Watch out Summer’.

The summer promotion, according to Flow’s Consumer Sales Manager Andrea Liverpool, builds on the momentum of the carnival season with the added thrust of paying greater attention to its TV and broadband bundled customers, while not forgetting its postpaid and prepaid customers.

Nikala Williams, Flow’s Andrea Liverpool, The summer Marketing and Flow’s Consumer Sales promotion, said Communications lead, Manager, said that her Liverpool, is designed to said Flow Summer Company’s Summer equip customers with all Promotion will give Promotion will pay more their telecommunications customers even more attention to broadband needs so that they would value for their money. and tv services be able to thoroughly customers. enjoy the summer period.

The Flow For topping up $15 or more, prepaid Summer customers stand to be rewarded with programme will also include its cash, smartphones, credit, KFC meals, Annual Internet Camp for students 8 — grocery vouchers, BeFit memberships, 18 years old. The Camp, scheduled to summer packs and more, including commence on Monday, July 30, has taking advantage of the Flow smart been going now for some 15 years. It pack offers a smartphone, calling will introduce participants to the minutes, data and free WhatsApp for internet and to website design and only $99. programming.

And, for the very first time, Flow’s And as if that was not fulfilling summer promotions will include enough, Flow’s Marketing and double the minutes across network for Communications lead, Nikala Williams its postpaid customers. said that Flow’s National Scholarship Broadband and tv service Award Ceremony is still to be held and subscribers will also see some summer the company’s Back to School Drive benefit of price reduction when they and Back to School Fair, where the bundle their services. teams will be providing school Persons who sign up for broadband supplies, hair grooming, medical and tv services can look forward to checks including eye, ear and nutrition complimentary gifts. checks, are yet to get into gear.

Mas/music forum for SVG

THE MAS AND MUSIC of St Vincent and the Grenadines will be the focus of a public forum to be held here next Monday, July 30 at Frenches House, Kingstown.

The one-day forum, which we deliberate on ‘Making a living from Mas and Music’, will also provide the opportunity for the official launch of the inaugural Accolade Journal.

The Accolade Journal is a component of a St Vincent and the Grenadines-based venture of the same name — Accolade — which was established with the purpose of facilitating the widest global exposure for the Caribbean creative industries, especially its music.

Its flagship is an annual event here in St Vincent and the Grenadines which recognises outstanding Caribbean music personalities and artistes. The first such event was held last year and honoured Vincentian songstress Judy Boucher, who was celebrating the 30th anniversary of her hit single, ‘Can’t Be with You Tonight’, which catapulted her to international recognition.

Monday’s workshop on ‘Making a Living from Mas and Music’ is part of a three-year development plan of the Carnival Bands Association (CBA) of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 15.

14. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Picture-perfect Vincy Unity Picnic in Canada

The Montreal-based Warren family enjoying the picnic.

IN PICTURE-PERFECT weather, thousands of Vincentians on Saturday converged on Brown’s Bay Park in the 1,000 Is. area in Western Ontario, Canada, for the annual Vincy Unity Picnic.

Nationals from all walks of life – and from throughout North America and other places – assembled at the picturesque park, bordering the St. Lawrence River, in perfect weather for picnicking. Temperatures hovered in the 80s, with a gentle breeze.

As usual, the event – organized

by Vincentian associations in Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto – also attracted a large Lawyer Curlina Edwards (L) and Arlene DeRoche prepare number of nationals from the ingredients for a meal.

Caribbean Diaspora.

Picnic-goers intermingled and renewed acquaintances, while feasting on local delicacies, and gyrated to the latest soca and reggae sounds emanating from mini and huge boom boxes across the massive park.

“It’s nice,” said Montreal resident Randolph Warren, who hails from Debra Conliffe (L) and Jamaican friend and church sister Richland Park, Jasmine Sewell.

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

flanked by family members, attending the picnic for the third time. “You have all Caribbean islands together.

“It’s a day that you get to meet people you have not seen in years,” he added.

As members of the three-bus contingent from Brooklyn, New York – organized by the Council of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Organizations, U.S.A. Inc. (COSAGO, the umbrella Vincentian group in the US – Curlina Edwards, Arlene DeRoche and Janice Phillips washed and sliced onions for a huge pot of rice and peas to be cooked on coals inside a tire rim.

“I feel good doing this; I’m happy doing this,” said DeRoche, a Canoun native.

“I’m always happy to help,” chimed in Edwards, a Brooklyn-based lawyer, whose parents hail from Chateaubelair and Spring Village in North Leeward. “I love the togetherness.”

“The first time I came, it rained so much, but this time is good,” added Janice Phillips, who trekked from Atlanta, Georgia, attending the picnic for the second time.

Sitting around a table with her Jamaican friend and church sister, Debra Conliffe, originally from Belair,

small propane stove.

“It’s a good outing,” said the Toronto residents. “We get to see lots of friends we have not seen in a while. We’re enjoying the family unity.”

A few yards away, Joel Toney, flanked by family members from Toronto and Brooklyn, drank callaloo soup, ginger beer and mauby.

The Calliaqua-born retired, former St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador to the United Nations, who came on one of the COSAGO buses from Brooklyn, noted that the Vincy Unity Picnic “has grown exponentially.

“It should continue,” said Toney, who took the bus ride for the third time. “It’s a good way to meet Vincentians in the Diaspora. This is an institution that should carry on.”

At the center of the park, gospel, soca and reggae artistes entertained -Vincy Mas Ragga Soca and Road the massive crowd, as politicians, March Monarch Fimba entertains including St. Vincent and the Grenacrowd with ‘Mind Yo Funky Busidines Tourism, Culture and Sports ness’. (Photo Credit: Privilege JohnMinister Cecil “Ces’ McKie gave son) speeches.

The “Rolls Royce of Calypso,” feasted on roasted breadfruit, stewed Winston Soso, brought the party chicken, pigtail, BBQ chicken and down with a number of hits from cow-foot souse – all at the same time. yesteryear, but Ragga Soca and Road “I feel good,” said the Montreal March Monarch for Vincy Mas 2018, resident between bites. “I don’t Fimba, had the crowd jumping to care; I come here every year since I “Mind Yo Funky Business.” migrated in ’79.

Earlier, Bridget Blucher, dubbed “I come here to enjoy myself – “the Queen of Gospel Music in St. Section of the massive party crowd. that’s it,” Conliffe added. “One life Vincent and the Grenadines” by newspaper columnist and “walker,” to live!”

Master of Ceremonies E. Bernard are the trendsetters. We now have Her friend, Jasmine Sewell, commended the “lovely weather” and John, a former radio broadcaster and picnics – one in New York and one in picnic-goers. originally from St. Catherine, manager at home, transfixed the Florida.

Jamaica, said she has been attend“The mood is perfect,” he said, crowd with, among others, “Rivers of “You have added to the flights and ing the picnic for the past six years.

Babylon,” “Salvation,” “Can’t Sit made carnival “I always enjoy myself,” she Down,” “God’s not Dead,” and “I’m in St. Vincent said. “Very good food and good Saved.” and the GrenaCOSAGO contingent from Brooklyn everything.”

McKie lauded the organizers for dines a assembles for group shot before Nearby, Natasha Denbow, the annual pilgrimage. success,” he heading back to New York. formerly of Lowmans Hill, and her “Put your hands together for the added. “You Trinidadian husband, Eugene organizers of this picnic,” he urged, have to continDenbow, roasted breadfruit on a getting immediate compliance. “You ue to add to the numbers. Last year, we had a record tourism season.”

As calypsonian Cyril “Scorcher” Thomas, a former St. Vincent and the Grenadines Deputy Consul General in New York, entertained the COSAGO crowd on the western end of the grounds, SVG Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Montreal Cecil ‘Ces’ McKie (R) presents token of resident Earl appreciation to Member of Provincial “Ole George” Parliament (MPP) in Ontario, Canada, Steve Vincentians from Brooklyn, NY getting down to Scorcher's performance.

Daniel, a Clarke.

accompanied by his wife, Gwenneth.

“People seem to be really having a blast. It’s the most fun I’ve had in a long time.”

16. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27 , 2018. 17.

News

Handing over party (from left): Assistant CoP Carlos Sampson, Commissioner of Police Colin John, Chairperson of the SVG Diaspora Committee Sherril-Ann Mason-Haywood, Attorney Mayferne Mayers/Oliver and Deputy CoP Frankie Joseph.

RSVGPF gets donation of computers THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) was on Monday the recipient of fifteen (15) computers and two (2) printers, generously donated by the New York City based, SVG Diaspora Committee.

The fifteen (15) computers and printers were officially handed over by Sherrill- Ann MasonHaywood, Chairperson of the SVG Diaspora Committee, during a ceremony hosted at the Central Police Station, Kingstown.

Addressing the ceremony, Mason-Haywood spoke of the collaborative process that led to the procurement and eventual handing over of the gifts.

She especially praised Garnes Byron, a trustee of her Committee, and Theo Marshall for procuring the gifts.

She also commended the SVG Ex-Police Association USA Inc., Friends of Argyle and Fessie Yorke of Standard Shippers, NY, for their roles in coordinating the venture.

All in all, Mason-Haywood is looking forward to a strengthening of the relationship between The SVG Diaspora Committee and the RSVGPF, to actively contribute to the further modernisation of the Constabulary.

Commissioner of Police Colin John welcomed the donation which he contended was in line with a Carisecure USAID Project aimed at standardising data.

He described the donation as being timely which he signalled will allow the constabulary to divert resources to needed areas.

John pledged that the computers will be used for legitimate purposes, especially in light of the fact that they could have gone to any other organisation.

Mayferne Mayers/Oliver responded on Byron’s behalf and weighed in on the positive uses of the computers. She reflected on Byron as more a sibling rather than a cousin. He is New York based, but Mayers/Oliver revealed that Byron’s heart is “right here.”

Assistant Superintendent of Police Trevor Bailey, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the committee for their contribution to the RSVGPF, and assured the Chairperson, that the constabulary does not run a “game shop,” and that the computers would be used solely to assist the organisation.

V Dealing with the spread of HIV/AIDS 18. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Health

IN LAST WEEK’S (Friday 20th July) edition, in an article headlined ‘Tackling the HIV/AIDS scourge in SVG’, we cited that there were 31 new cases of HIV reported here between January and June.

What we are still to discern is the lifestyles of those 31 persons, and whether these cases represent persons who would have contracted the disease within the period quoted, or whether they had been infected for some time before.

In addition, we are still to discern whether or not, with this recent statistic, that the number of persons living with AIDS has increased.

Regardless of the situation, it is a cause for ALARM. The National AIDS

Secretariat will be stepping up its campaign aimed at encouraging persons — especially high risk persons — to get tested, and advancing the free rapid test which is conducted in communities and at work places, as an option.

It would be remiss of us if we did not state that life does not end when/if someone tests positive for HIV. Even in this state, one can live a ‘normal’ life but with precautions like ALWAYS using a condom during sex and employing strict personal cleanliness after sexual intercourse. Every effort must be made to ensure that a condom is not punctured and that it is disposed of properly.

Please be reminded that other STD’s can also

be spread by sharing dildos and other sex toys.

Counseling is an important component of dealing with persons with HIV/AIDS. The ‘bad news’ of being HIV positive can shatter your feelings. You can become angry and spiteful, suicidal, or you may simply accept the fact that you are an unfortunate victim.

Whatever the state of mind, counseling helps to get you back on track after having been derailed by the ‘bad news’. But counseling can only have a positive effect if you follow the advice and instructions of your counselor.

Then there is medication. Antiretroviral medications will help to suppress the virus and assist the

immune system to fight against common diseases. HIV weakens the immune system and its ability to fight off harmful bacteria, viruses and germs that enter your bloodstream, therefore, it is a MUST that medication is taken as prescribed , even though you feel well.

Finally, it is the responsibility of HIV positive individuals to protect others. To knowingly pass on the virus is a deadly sin.

The Good Book states “Thou shalt not kill”, so to willfully infect others is contrary to laws of the Almighty and the state.

Who knows, the state might just be forced to impose penalties including quarantine for persons found guilty of such. Let us not reach

Anti-retroviral drugs are a key component of the overall treatment for persons with HIV/AIDS. that stage. An old saying which has Biblical reference states “Where there is life there is hope”, the Bible says, “ … a living dog is better than a dead lion”, so where there is life, there is hope.

Who knows, before this year is out, we might hear the good news that there is a cure for HIV/AIDS. In the interim, though, those who are infected, must continue to comply with

the medication regime and not be drawn into any temptation to willfully spread the disease.

If you have any questions or need help, please contact the National AIDS Secretariat. Tel: 1 784 451 2489 or 1 784 497 7425. You may also contact your district doctor or nurse.

Submitted by Don de Riggs

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Fleeced!!!

Dear George, THERE IS THIS young lady who lives here but is not from here whom I have been helping out from time to time with money to pay her bills and get food items. Things have gotten out of hand as far as I am concerned, and I need your advice.

The first time she asked me for money was to help with her rent; that was after two weeks of knowing her.

Not long after, she asked for money to pay her cell phone bill. The requests kept coming fast and furious.

When I told her for the first time that I did not have any money, she started giving me attitude. Not relenting, another day she asked for $500 to help with her rent, and when I refused, she offered me sex as a reward. I was upset that she would have me that low, and I gave her a piece of my mind. I found out later that she and her colleagues were hitting others for money as though it was their occupation.

The lady has stopped speaking with me and that quite all right. Except that she owes me $1500.

It is difficult for me to believe she turned out like this. I hope men are

reading this.

Taken for a ride Dear Taken, Surely, you could not have seen this coming but it is often said that hindsight is 20/20 vision.

I must say, however, that two weeks into knowing someone was far too soon to be dispensing money at their beck and call. Whatever signal you sent out was received gracefully by her, which could be why she thought that sex would have been welcomed by you.

You may have to take legal action against her to get your $1,500, and I suggest that you do so immediately so that your life could return to normal.

It is not too late to start to learn how to say “no” when it matters.

George

Selfish and gutless would ruin me and my marriage.

What do you think is a WHAT A quandary I find reasonable offer to make myself in!

I am a married man in to her to get her to change her mind about my 50s and in an affair having this baby and with a girl 40 years my also from going to the junior. Now she is police? pregnant.

Try as much as I can Scared stiff to convince her to abort the baby, she refuses.

Dear Scared stiff, Nothing I tell her about how having the baby will I am surprised, to say ruin my marriage, my the least, that you did life and affect my job, not realize what the age gets through to her. gap was between you She insists that I should leave my wife and and this child before you got her pregnant. That go away with her, but you were not aware just that idea I told her is crazy and ridiculous. She how married you were and the nature of the job is threatening to go to you held. the police and I am still Your actions to this trying to get through to child were horrendous her that her actions and entirely

Dear George,

irresponsible. You should be made to bear the consequences.

And in your selfishness, you are not concerned about ruining her life, only safeguarding your own.

Manning up to your illegal and irresponsible act by confessing to the relevant authorities would free you of the guilt you now feel. There is an old saying’ ‘You can’t play mas and ‘fraid powder.”

Let this be a lesson ad warning to you not to sexually molest those under age or anyone else.

Time to start being a protector of our children rather than a sexual prowler.

George

Good work, George Dear George,

doing what you are doing.

ABOUT a year ago you gave me advice to get out of a relationship, and I did. The girl got married to the man she cheated with and he ended up physically abusing her at night and giving her HIV. I was so scared I got myself tested several times just to make sure I was in the clear. I was.

She met me sometime after and apologized for treating me the way she did. I told her I had forgiven her a long time ago and that I was just satisfied that we did the best thing by not tying the knot.

George, you saved me from a total life disaster. Thank you and keep

Grateful Dear Grateful, It is good to hear from you, and thank you for your kind words. I am glad that things worked out for you, but I am also saddened by the fact that your ex-girlfriend ended up the way she did.

It is good to listen to wise counsel, and in your case, it served you well.

All the best to you, and I hope you find happiness.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) You'll be angry if those you live with aren't pulling their weight. Make sure that you make reservations early. Sudden changes could result in estrangement's. Try to enlist the help of those you trust in order to fulfill the demands being made of you.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Outbursts of passion may cause arguments with your mate. Be precise in your communi‐ cations to avoid any misunderstandings and arguments. Friends from your past may come back into your life. Better still, take your mate and let them foot the bill.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Do not let in‐laws upset you. Take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives. You can benefit financially if you put money or main‐ tenance into your living quarters. You are best to ask questions if you aren't certain about issues that are confronting you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) This week will be hectic. You will get bored quickly, so make sure that you have scheduled enough activity to hold your interest. Listen to the problems of others and offer suggestions where possible. Travel, although enticing, will cost more than you expect.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Your home environment may be volatile if precautions aren't taken. Make decisions about your professional objectives. If they're really interested, they'll wait. You need a break from your daily routine.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) You will attract potential lovers, but be sure that they're unattached. Better still, take your mate and let them foot the bill. Love could develop at social events that are work relate.

You may be upset if someone has borrowed something that belongs to you.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Control your anger. New interests are preoc‐ cupying your time. Communication will be the source of your knowledge and you must be sure to spend time with those who have more experience. Ask a close friend for advice.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) If you can put some work into home improve‐ ments, you should. Don't get involved in idle chatter that will hurt your position. Put your efforts into physical fitness programs or com‐ petitive sports. Spend some quality time with the one you love. Your talents will shine at work.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Don't be too quick to sign documents.

Implement your ideas into your projects at work. Watch your tendency to live for the day and to spend too much on entertainment and children; it could set you back. Your greatest gains will come through your creative ideas.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) This will not be the best day to make changes or renovations to your residence. Be careful to avoid wrong doings. You will be able to make changes regarding your living arrangements.

Put something away in case of an emergency.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You can buy or sell if you're so inclined.

Sudden good fortune will help you cover your debts. Your creative talent will prove to be lucrative if put to proper use. Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommo‐ date you this week.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Don't use emotional blackmail on someone you love. Minor health problems may flare up if you haven't been taking care of yourself or have been burning the candle at both ends.

Erratic behavior may confuse others, and mood swings may result in isolation. Keep an open mind when dealing with youngsters.

ACROSS 1. Foretell 5. Small nail 9. Viper 12. Ethereal 13. Sled 14. Consumed 15. Fresh‐water fish 16. Secondhand 17. Decay 18. Prehistoric sepulchral tomb 20. German submarine 22. Detective 25. Insufficient 26. Piles 27. Entreaty 28. Nevertheless 29. 24 hours 30. Chield 33. Female servant 35. Digging tool 37. One of a group of numbers added together 40. Lighthouse 41. Money 42. Burden 43. Black bird 44. Raised platform 46. Foolish 50. Tavern 51. Beige 52. Person who lies 53. Annoy by persistent fault‐finding 54. Intend 55. Whirlpool DOWN 1.Sorrowful 2. Seed of a legume 3. Curves 4. Device for applying

eyewash 5. To redden 6. Corrosion 7. Period of human life 8. Infer 9. Brother of Moses 10. European ermine 11. Minor 19. It is 21. Bleat of a sheep 22. Bashful 23. Shelter 24. Consume 25. Wily 27. Cushion 29. Part of verb to do 30. Resinous

deposit 31. Fuss 32. Lair 33. Honey 34. Head garland 35. Occean 36. Flat‐bladed oar 37. Full speed 38. Italian lady

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 21.

39. Performance 40. Boatswain 42. Monetary unit of Italy 45. Very skilled person 47. Help 48. Craze 49. Attempt

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22. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Crime

Murder toll climbs to 14 AS OF WEDNESDAY 25th July, the homicide count for the year had risen to 14.

Here is a synopsis of the last known homicides in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Murder No. 11 Police here have listed the death of Lorenzo Gould of Vermont as the 11th homicide for the year.

The circumstances surrounding Gould’s death are still being investigated.

What is known is that the body of the 28-yearold man was discovered some time after 10:40pm on July 18, 2018, at Pepper Village, Vermont.

His body showed signs of being shot multiple times.

Murder No 12 Police here say their investigations are ongoing into the death of 25-year-old Marcus James, of Arnos Vale.

The unemployed young man is reported to have died on Thursday 19th July 19, 2018 at about 11:05pm at Arnos Vale, as a result of multiple gunshots to his body and head.

A resident of the area where Marcus was shot confirmed for THE VINCENTIAN that James lived in the area and could well have been on his way home when he was attacked. The source also stated that a series of gunshots were heard in the area around the time James was said to have been shot.

James’ death was officially listed as the 12th homicide for the year.

Murder No. 13 And the police were to be kept busy when on Monday 23rd July, 2018, they had to respond to another report of murder.

The law enforcement authorities confirmed that they are now investigating the death of Roger Billingy of Park Hill.

Information is that Billingy, a 42-year-old farmer, was shot in his face around 9:30am while in his field.

His death was officially recorded as homicide number 13 for the year.

Murder No 14 And police here have confirmed the death of Murando Williams, 36-year-old labourer of Frenches, as homicide number 14.

According to a police release of Wednesday 25th July, Williams was walking along the Rockies Public Road on Tuesday 24th July 2018 at 09:15 p.m., when some unknown person(s) shot him about his body. He was rushed to the MCMH where he was pronounced dead.

An unconfirmed report said that the man had received multiple gunshots to his body. A resident of Rockies confirmed that a series of gunshots had “broken the silence of the night” in that East Kingstown community, around the time Williams is said to have been shot.

Update Reports are that Police are investigating the discovery of a body of a man with gunshot wounds in Calder.

The body was discovered on Thursday 26th July, in his house, according to a source.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 23.

Improved Track and Field showing at WISG The Male quartet of Handal Roban, Godwyn Roban, Desroy Jordan and Yurnic Murray did a winning time of 3 minutes 21.97 seconds, while the Females team of Zita Vincent, Shahalia Lynch, Zamesha Myle and Aaliyah Anderson won in 4 minutes 07.02 seconds.

In all, St Vincent and the Grenadines copped 9 gold medals, seven silver and five Vincentian Yurnic Murray (left) nips bronze.

Zamesha Myle, clearing the bar, as she took the Female High Jump.

Other Disciplines ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES delivered an improved performance in Track and Field, when the 2018 CBN/Winlott Inc Windward Islands Secondary Schools’ Games (WISG) opened last Sunday at the George Odlum Stadium in St Lucia.

Occupiers of the last place for the better part of the last decade, the Vincentians at one point threatened perennial winners - Grenada. However, the latter, as expected, came good in the field events, leaving St Vincent and the Grenadines to settle for second place.

St Vincent and the Grenadines tallied 251 points, with the Females contributing 133 and the Males 118.

Grenada registered 281 points in total. Host St Lucia was third on 209 and Dominica, at the back, on 172 points.

Among the stand out athletes for St Vincent and the Grenadines was Zita Vincent, who claimed gold in the Females’ 800m and 1500m.

Vincent’s time in the 800m was 2 minutes 20.30 seconds, and in the 1500m, she timed 5 minutes 07.66 seconds.

Meanwhile, 14 year - old Ulanda Lewis took gold in the Females’ 100m in 12.01 seconds.

Other gold medallists were: Zamesha Myle- the Females High Jump (1.60m); Krystal Foster- the Females Discus (33.96m); Godwyn Roban - the Long Jump with a leap of 6.61m, and Desroy Jordan- the 800m in 1 minute 54 .51 seconds.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines also claimed gold in the Male and Female 4 x 400 metres Relay.

When the other disciplines began on Monday, it was not a good outing for St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Contesting three disciplines, St Vincent and the Grenadines lost in all.

First, they were beaten 3-0 (25-16, 2520, 25-23) by St Lucia in Female Volleyball, and were swished 54-14 also

by St Lucia in Female Basketball.

And the Vincentians went under twonil to Grenada in Football.

In other results on Monday, Dominica beat Grenada 3-0 in Female Volleyball, and 43-14 in Female Basketball, while St Lucia and Dominica drew nil-nil in Football.

On Tuesday, St Vincent and the Grenadines suffered a 12-27 loss to Grenada in Netball, and St Lucia got past Dominica, 27-25.

Also on Tuesday, the Vincentian

Grenadian Michael Francois on the line in the Male 4x400m.

Male Basketballers were whipped by their Grenadian counterparts, 76-56, while St Lucia outmuscled Dominica, 4740.

The other Male Basketball fixture, saw Dominica ousting St Lucia, 47-40.

Male Vollleyball is the other discipline being contested at the multidiscipline Games.

The Marcellin Grounds is the venue for Football, with Basketball at the Vieux Fort Hard Court and Volleyball at Micoud.

St Vincent and the Grenadines, like the other three countries, is represented by 62 athletes and 8 officials.

The Games conclude on Sunday, with Female Volleyball and Football, along with the Closing and Presentation Ceremony.

Dominica is slated to host the annual Games in 2019.

Mitres does a double take MITRES, last Tuesday evening at the Kingstown Netball Centre, made a double take of titles in the Division One of the FLOW National Club Tournament, when they retained the Knock Out title to their previously taken 2018 League champion title.

It was one of Mitres’ easiest triumphs in many years over archrivals - Metrocint General Insurance Maple, as the two met predictably in the Knockout finals.

Having already surrendered the League title to Mitres, Maple seemed to lack the zip on Tuesday evening, as the much anticipated encounter turned out to be lopsided.

Mitres led from the get go, going ahead 14 — 9 at the end of the first quarter, and 30 -17 at the end of the second.

That lead was extended to

43-36 at the end of the third quarter and finally, 61-43.

Once again, Maple would have to be satisfied with the runner-up position in the 2018 competitions.

In retaining their Knock Out title, Mitres, in the process, completed their fourth double in five years, the others coming in 2014, 2015 SVG General Maple. and 2016. was set to close yesterday with The other Knock Out title the staging of the Division Two decided on Tuesday came in Knock Out Final, which should Division Three, when SVG have featured North Leeward General Services Maple was Starz and Nice Radio Clinchers. awarded the title, after the Following the final, the National Under-16 team did not closing ceremony and have sufficient players to presentation were scheduled to commence play. take place.

The 2018 Club Tournament

FLOW National Club Tournament Division One double crowned champions- Mitres.

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24. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

System Three, like Avenues had played unbeaten until last Sunday.

Avenues take 2nd Division Football title

Avenues United- inaugural Second Division champions.

by Dave Duncan.

In the semi, System Three handed Pride and Joy a 6-3 defeat.

Leading System Three’s IN THIS, the year of its 50th anniversary, But in the 58th minute, Shayne win were Aeron Collis and Kewon Avenues United Football Club was Lynch pulled one back for System presented with a commemorative piece Three, only for him, soon thereafter, to Clarke each with a brace, and one each of silverware, the Second Division title of turn villain when he missed a penalty. from Aaron Jackson and Chad Davis.

Tizon Phillips (2) and Jessie Caine the St Vincent and the Grenadines System Three, which had most of responded for Pride and Joy. Football Federation (SVGFF) National the possession in the second half, came In addition to the silverware, Club Championships. close to equalising on several Avenues United pocketed $4000.

A hard fought 2-1 win over arch occasions.

System Three took home $3000, Pride rivals — System Three Sports In getting to the final, Avenues Academy, handed Avenues the United inflicted a 5-1 thumping on SV and Joy- $ 2000 and SV United- $1000.

The Second Division is made up of inaugural title, at the Chili Playing United in their semi-final clash, one the second teams of the 12 Premier Field in Georgetown. week prior.

Division Clubs.

Avenues United found the net in the Avenues United’s goals came from A group format with six teams in 15th minute through captain Rahiem Benjamin Williams (3) and one each each group, took care of the Westfield, and Delano John doubled from Rahiem Westfield and Delano the tally in the 56th minute.

John. SV United‘s lone goal was scored preliminary round. The top four teams

in each group advanced to the Quarter Finals, with the winners going forth to the semi-finals.

Apart from the four top places, the others which made up the Second Division are BESCO-Pastures, North Leeward Predators, Largo Height, Bequia United, Sion Hill, Hope International, Je Belle and CamdoniaChelsea.

Next up for the National Club Championships are the Senior Women’s Division, the Premier Division, the First Division, the Under-16 Females and Under-11 Grassroots.

Already completed have been the Futsal competition and the Under-14 Males, won by Awesome FC and System Three respectively.

Breakaway Masters opens: ‘The Major’ honoured

Avenues United and System Three Sports Academy competing for Second Division honours of the SVGFF National Club Championships at the Chili Playing Field, last Sunday.

Table Tennis appoints Committee members FOLLOWING the completion of the 2018 National Table Tennis Championships, the SVG Table Tennis Association has announced the appointment of three important working committees.

The following Committees and their membership are as follows: Technical Committee Khalique Bailey (Chairman), Joseph Carrington and Carlton Daniel; Selection Committee Khalique Bailey (Chairman), Unica Velox and Joseph Carrington; Tournament Committee Desmond Shallow (Chairman), Bob Ballantyne, Romano Spencer and Terrance Marksman.

And in a release that made known the above, the Association also endorsed the following tennis academies: Nixon Louis - Mountain View Academy Table Tennis Programme - 12 active players; Sean Stanley — Sean Stanley Academy, West St. George Secondary School - 18 active players; Philcol Jeffers - Philcol Jeffers Academy, layout - 10 active players; Khalique Bailey, Romano Spencer and Bob Ballantyne Avesco Academy, Arnos Vale 12 active players; Rodney Caruth - Rodney Caruth Academy, Bequia - 52 active players; Carlton Daniel - Carlton Daniel Academy, Georgetown and Sandy Bay - 25 active players.

THE 2018 EDITION of the SVG Brewery/Digicel/ Agricultural Input Warehouse Breakaway Masters Firms Football Competition was officially opened last Saturday at the Richmond Hill (Grammar School) Playing Field.

The Competition, the eighth to date, will feature the addition of Female and U19 divisions to the existing Masters and U16 divisions. Twenty-two teams are registered to participate.

In the double header exhibition matches following the official opening, System Three and KJR Strikers played to a nil-nil draw, while Sion Hill gave early warning of their intention when they outplayed Breakaway Masters 4-1.

Bonadies Supermarket Better Bargains took the Best dressed Team award.

In the Masters Division, Ministry of Education are the

defending League Champions, while Police will defend their title in the Knockout.

‘The Major’ One of the highlights of last Sunday’s opening was the recognition and honouring of St. Clair Leacock, familiarly known as ‘The Major’.

‘The Major’, a former President of the SVG Football Federation and current Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, was, according to Leopold Dopwell, representative of the Breakaway Masters, being recognized for “his outstanding contribution to the sport of football in SVG.” On receiving a plaque from Dopwell, ‘The Major’ thanked the Breakaway Masters for their action, and took the opportunity to look back at some of the achievements SVG have had in football. He singled out the Lowe brothers for special mention.

“The Lowe brothers Ralty and Guy - are two of our top players. Ralty Bonadies Supermarket Better Bargains Best dressed Team.

Hon. St. Clair Leacock (right) accepts a plaque of recognition from Breakaway Masters’ Leopold Dopwell. scored in every game he played for SVG - in every international tournament he played - while Guy was an integral match winner for SVG. The footballers we had in that period were among the best in the world. Ralty made the Caribbean football team and went to play against Mexico, which was an outstanding achievement, because at that time SVG was playing a quality of football equal to teams today in the World Cup.” He also had a message for today’s football administrators: “When I left football, we were 73 in the world; today we are 173 in the world. In the same period of time we have got over 15 million dollars which means for every one million dollars we got, we declined 10 points. Football must get their act together, the executive must get its act together. This country has a proud football history and you must restore our glory days so we can keep our heads high.”

I.B.A.ALLEN Teams lined up during the opening ceremony.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. 25.

Sports

Heist THE BUILD up to the 2019 Cricket World Cup in England next year is on. Stuart Law, Australian born coach of the West Indies, has no doubts about his programme.

He will be keen on the developments which open an opportunity for the broadest selection of West Indies cricketers. That amounts to a reconciliation that heralds an end to an impasse that has threatened to derail the game.

The endeavour to iron out the issues seems to have come from a reality that cricket is too dear to the West Indian for it to continue in disruption.

The West Indies roared into contention of winning a One Day International series when they rebounded in last Wednesday’s Day/Night match in Guyana.

The script will credit Jason Holder who defended seven runs in the final over for a three run win. Shimron Hetmyer took the Man of the match award with 125 from 93 balls.

No one especially a Bangladeshi can count on a Bangladesh victory regardless of the state of the game.

Chasing 272, the visitors were off to a dream start welcomed and applauded by fans from the Asian circle who followed the proceedings wherever they are.

That was thanks to Anamul Haque with a nine ball 23 including two sixes and a same number of fours.

Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan continued the carnage up to the tenth over when they reached 79 without being separated. That was plunder and it seemed all over bar the shouting.

An amazing turnabout followed where even though Bangladesh didn’t lose a cluster of wickets, the run rate reduced drastically and the same pair who laid the foundation for their team’s victory in the opening encounter found themselves on the receiving end of some harsh criticisms for allowing the decline.

The match progressed in see-saw fashion, and at 232 for 3 in 45 overs, it appeared like plain sailing for Bangladesh. There have been previous Bangladeshi collapses from positions perhaps more clear-cut than Wednesday’s.

By T/20 standards such as what has become the norm in almost any form, Bangladesh was expected to take in on a canter. But if you are a cricket student, one would been conscious of Bangladesh’s vulnerabilities. With eight runs needed to win in the final over, they managed four.

Musfiqur Rahmin must be the most enigmatic Bangladeshi cricketer. History will be record a series of potential victories that he has squandered. Commentators claim that Holder’s full toss in the first delivery of the 50th over slipped from his hands. It could have been a no ball. Ordinarily, it would have been smashed for six and that would have been that. But it flew to Keemo Paul and that sealed the victory. Two new batsmen were unable to execute the fatal blow and West Indies secured a heist of the highest order.

The West Indies have a chance of taking the series, from a position of facing a three nil white wash up to that final over in the second ODI. Bangladesh can still take the series. But given their frailties, and indeed the fillip that the win has given to the home team, they will be up to a regenerated West Indian squad.

Boxing hold Summer Camp APPROXIMATELY 20 young persons from Rose Place, West Kingstown, were exposed to the basics of boxing when the SVG Boxing Association, in conjunction with the National Olympic Committee (NOC), staged a Boxing Summer Camp from July 16 – 20, for young persons in that community.

According to Winston Telesford, President of the SVG Boxing Association, his Association was “happy to reach out to the youngsters in this area. We decided to do this programme because we saw the need for it in terms of getting the youngsters of Rose Place involved in boxing, through the Olympic Committee.”

The programme covered the basics in boxing drills and techniques and physical exercises.

Going forward, Telesford is hopeful that some of the 20 participants would join the Boxing Association’s regular programme at the Bishop’s College compound.

Winston Telesford, President of the SVG Boxing Association, gave the assurance that the sport of boxing is very much alive here.

Addressing what has been described as a dormant stage in the sport of boxing here, Telesford told THE VINCENTIAN, “Most people are of the view that the sport of boxing is dormant, but I share a different view. Boxing is alive, it’s just that we have not been shouting about it.”

He revealed, “We have since purchased a boxing ring, but are still in the process of finding a home (for it)”, admitting, in the process, that not having an adequate place to locate the ring is a setback.

The participants all received certificates of participation at the end of the camp. NOC Rep. Wayne Williams is pictured at left and Rose Place community activist Mark Dennie is also pictured second from right.

Junior Assing (left), Boxing Coach attached to the local Boxing Association, taking one of the participants through some basic techniques.

“But we continue to work with our boxers,” he added. “In the past, we had boxers participating in numerous events in the Caribbean and South America, with the last time being 2017 when we went to St Lucia”.

In addition to the ongoing programme in Kingstown, the Boxing Association has had talent identification programmes in Greiggs and in Layou. “And we hoping to go into Ottley Hall and other areas in the country”.

Wayne Williams, representative of the NOC, reaffirmed his Committee’s ongoing commitment to their affiliates. “We welcome this boxing programme. Boxing has been around for quite a while and the efforts to reach out to the respective communities to bring young persons into the discipline is a welcome one.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

Cameron: CWI had made great strides “IF YOU WERE to take a step back and forget the success of West Indies 20 years ago when we won the ICC World Cup in 1975 and 1979, Cricket West Indies is the most successful cricket board in the world, where for the last six years we won four championships. There is no other cricket board in the world that has done that.”

So declared Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron, Cricket West Indies (CWI) President, during a recent episode of the weekly late night *Facebook) talk show ‘Up Late with Sehon Marshall’.

During the interview with host Marshall, Cameron admitted that this year would be a challenging year financially, but pointed to next year being better with increased income from tours.

Alluding to some of the changes introduced under his tenure, Cameron sited “.. in the last four years, we have moved from 20 professionals to close to 200 including coaches, physios and other administrators, and by this, we have seen some progress. ..”

He went on to say, “We have the senior team in the current home series against Bangladesh, an A team in England, the B team just took part in the T20 in Canada, and the Women’s team will resume their preparation soon, and this is without the assistance of the governments.”

As far as the performance of the Senior WI team is concerned, the CWI President believes the team could perform better, but is optimistic. “I am not happy with the current performance of the Regional team. We should have won the Sri Lanka series recently; our batting is not where I would like it to be … we see some progress in the bowling… it’s all work in progress. After the India tour next we would be able to assess where we really are.”

Cameron admitted there are challenges with the shorter version of the game where it is more lucrative.

“It’s tough. The truth is we are creating an industry for players to give them an opportunity to play

Dave Cameron (right), President of Cricket West Indies, being interviewed by Sehon Marshall. in the leagues around the world.

But we are saying to players, West Indies cricket is dear to the people, and you need to balance it… they must come back and represent our people and play for the regional team”.

He referred to ongoing discussion at the ICC, towards introducing a limit on the number of T20 leagues a player could play in a year.

This, he said, would mean designating specific periods for international cricket and domestics cricket.

I.B.A.ALLEN

26. FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG TO CCJ?

„LET THE NDP DO IT!‰

by HAYDN HUGGINS

OPPOSITION NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste is calling on the Ralph Gonsalves led Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration to demit office and let the New Democratic Party (NDP) lead the process towards St. Vincent and the Grenadines joining the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in its Appellate Jurisdiction.

The prominent lawyer was speaking to THE VINCENTIAN on Monday, in response to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ call for the opposition to join him in bringing a Bill to Parliament for the nation to accede to the CCJ as its final Court of Appeal.

Gonsalves went even further during a news conference on Monday, and challenged the opposition to take the lead in this regard.

The Prime Minister’s initial call came as he addressed a Special Sitting of the CCJ, the first such sitting in SVG, last Friday, to mark the elevation of Vincentian-born Adrian Saunders as President of the CCJ. Bacchus-Baptiste had also delivered remarks at the Special Sitting, but did not touch the issue of SVG acceding to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction.

She told THE VINCENTIAN that her role there was to pay tribute to Justice Saunders, a longstanding, close colleague of hers, and she did not want to get political.

However, in her conversation with

this publication, Bacchus-Baptiste said, “I long for the day when we can join the CCJ, because our Caribbean Jurists are brilliant and competent; but if the Prime Minister wants us to sign on to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction, he must demit office and let the NDP do it.”

Bacchus-Baptiste added, “I think that the people would want to join, but they are afraid that the ULP administration will interfere.

“The NDP has always been a democratic party. We believe in the rule of law, and the people will trust us.”

Bacchus-Baptiste pointed out that it was the Nation who rejected constitutional reform in a referendum, November 25, 2009. The proposed constitution had made provisions for SVG to accede to the CCJ in its Appellate Jurisdiction, through a majority vote in Parliament.

On the issue of the passage of the Attorney General’s Reference Act, and the opinion of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal, in St Lucia, that a referendum was no longer required, Bacchus-Baptiste said she still thinks a referendum is needed.

“The Court of Appeal gave an opinion that you don’t need a referendum, you just need a two-thirds Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves majority. In my view, that is just an sounded urgent about taking SVG opinion. It is not a binding decision because it was never tested,” she said. fully under the jurisdiction of the CCJ, which his critics say is a change of heart.

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

Among CARICOM member states, only Barbados, Belize, Dominica and Guyana have replaced the Privy Council with the CCJ as their final court of appeal.

Attorney and Opposition Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste would prefer that a referendum be held to determine whether or not we accept the CCJ as our final court of appeal.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.