THE VINCENTIAN PDF 29-03-19

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FRIDAY,

MARCH 29, 2019

VOLUME 113, No.13

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

The Smart Hospital is said to have cost EC$2.2 M to recontruct and retrofit.

The ‘Old’ hospital

The new Smart Hospital and Clinic.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry THE CONSTITUENCY OF NORTH of Health Cuthbert Knights said the LEEWARD now boasts a state of the art Hospital serves as a visible medical facility. demonstration of the rapid changes to This, after the government officially our health care, and the dynamism of opened of the Chateaubelair Smart the health revolution which is ongoing.

Hospital and Clinic last Tuesday.

The Hospital will provide secondary The project was executed by the Pan healthcare services, while the clinic American Health Organisation will provide primary healthcare (PAHO) and funded by the United services, Knights said.

Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID).

A stroke of luck Constructed at a cost of EC2.2 million, the work was undertaken by David Latchman, Health Planner in Franco Construction and involved a the Ministry of Health, gave an makeover - redesign, reinforcement account of developments and incidents and additions - of the old hospital that led to the project being structure, and retrofitting with undertaken here, in which he modern furniture and equipment. highlighted this country’s stroke of

by KENVILLE HORNE

luck when Jamaica was unable to take up a Smart Health Care facilities project, and there was a chance of St. Vincent and the Grenadines getting a Smart Hospital.

This country, Latchman said, submitted two project proposals to PAHO, one of which was the Georgetown Hospital Modernisation which was approved. It was completed well within time, and PAHO successfully approached the UKDID for funding for more projects in the Windward Islands.

The PAHO Smart Health Care Facility project has expanded into seven countries, with an investment of some 30 million pounds (sterling). The Chateaubelair Smart Hospital is the first undertaking in the 2nd phase of

the PAHO project.

The Smart Hospital The Smart Hospital in Chateaubelair boasts a resilient design, able to function during and in the aftermath of a disaster.

Water storage capacity has increased from a mere 600 to 9000 gallons, and while there is now a standby generator on the compound, the facility has a 29 kilowatt solar system which can provide up to 50% of the power requirement of the facility, a significant cost-saving measure.

Other features of the Hospital include automatic lighting, waterproof Continued on Page 3.

V Sylvorn – Miss Metrocint - is whipping up support 2. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Pageantry

Miss SVG contestant Sylvorn Lavia paid a visit to her sponsor Metrocint General Insurance Company on Wednesday, where she was pictured interacting with customers and distributing 50th anniversary memorabilia.

SINCE HER INTRODUCTION to pushes her into the public the public late February, Sylvorn domain.

Lavia has found her lifestyle Sylvorn, from the North designation which automatically Windward village of Fancy, is

sponsored by the Metrocint General Insurance Company Limited, and there is a hint that the combination is creating a bond of national unity.

A member of this country’s constabulary attached to the Criminal Investigation Department, Sylvorn makes it no secret that her reason for entering the Miss SVG show is to get the scholarship. That is worth over $80,000, and Sylvorn sees that as her way of enhancing her position in her field.

She intends to pursue a career in Criminal Justice, and the scholarship will undoubtedly go a long way toward her achieving that goal.

That desire aside, and with Metrocint General Insurance Company Limited into its 50th Anniversary celebrations, Sylvorn is working towards a golden jubilee reward for the company.

The pieces of the puzzle are being fitted together and, despite the “vigorous” nature of the training schedule, Sylvorn is adjusting to the preparation in the way only people from Fancy know how.

She is balancing work and training, but she is comforted by the overwhelming support she has been getting.

The Metrocint Family has welcomed her, and whenever she is among them, there is a buzz of excitement that

extends all round. Evidence of this emerged last Wednesday when Sylvorn made a visit to her sponsors. That was part of the package worked out with the Carnival Development Corporation.

Sylvorn was welcomed with open arms, and was given the red-carpet treatment characteristic of the Metrocint. She interacted with customers and shared moments, as well as souvenirs depicting the 50th Anniversary landmark.

When National Heroes Day activities took place in her home village March 14, Sylvorn was given a rousing welcome and treated with as much

dignity.

She is the second person to represent Fancy in a Miss SVG Pageant. THE VINCENTIAN congratulates Sylvorn and wishes her all the best in her endeavours.

(WKA)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 3.

News 3

Smart Hospital opened in Chateaubelair

Continued from Front Page.

Government’s commitment

roof, a rainwater harvesting system, improved access for disabled persons, a fire alarm system, emergency exits and a full pharmacy.Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment Luke Browne expressed his pleasure with the completion of the Hospital and Clinic, counted it as “a complete response to any notion that we are not making any progress with Healthcare in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” and described it as clear demonstration of “government’s commitment to putting the infrastructure in place to provide Healthcare for all.”

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves delivered an address that detailed the “significant improvements in health” made under his administration, not least being the increases in nurses and doctors that currently serve the national healthcare services.

He expressed his utmost happiness with the project.

SVG has now commissioned two Smart Hospitals. The Chateaubelair Hospital is the second to become operational. The other is the Georgetown Smart Hospital.

One of the furnished wards at the new hospital.

Below: A section of those who turned out to be part of the historic occasion.

An examination room.

Right: Equipment to assist where and when necessary.

Royal Navy Recruiters visit SVG A DELEGATION from the Royal Navy is currently in St Vincent and the Grenadines on a recruitment drive.

In a small ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Room on Monday March 25th, 2019, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sir Louis Straker welcomed the delegation, noting it was exciting to have them here, as many young people have shown an interest in entering the service of the Royal Navy.

The Minister noted the mutual benefit to both St Vincent and the Grenadines and the United Kingdom, as the recruitment drive provides young people with opportunities for professional advancement and personal development.

St Vincent and the Grenadines’ High Commission to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Cenio Lewis, expressed thanks that

another recruitment request was accepted, and noted that this gives young Vincentians an opportunity for employment and building their existing skills.

Head of the Recruitment Team, William Adams said the Royal Navy was happy to be in the country. He noted that the Royal Navy is boosting recruitment in the Commonwealth, a process which he says brings varying skills to the Royal Navy.

The team will be here until April 6, during which time the Navy officials are expected to oversee more than 200 applicants as they undergo the recruitment process, which includes: a Recruit test, PreJoining Fitness test and a Selection Interview.

During his recent visit to here, the Prince Charles disclosed that

Sir Louis Straker, Minister of Foreign Affairs, welcomes William Adams, Head of the Recruitment Team.

Vincentians outnumber all other Caribbean nationalities serving in the Royal Navy.

Chronic tax defaulters, lookout!

CHRONIC TAX DEFAULTERS have been warned: Their names will be submitted to the Attorney General’s Office, with recommendations that charges be laid against them.

This is the word coming from Comptroller of Inland Revenue (IRD) Kelvin Pompey, who also said that Kelvin Pompey, the Department hopes that Comptroller of the charges brought against these defaulters will be laid Inland Revenue, has sooner rather than later. threatened chronic The IRD Head reminded tax defaulters tax payers that March 31st is before, but this time, the deadline for individuals he is taking and businesses to file their meaningful action. returns, and informed that the Audit and Investigative Unit of the IRD working.

He said further that the audit and investigative unit, is working diligently to ensure that persons are in compliance with the Income Tax Act.

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4. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Cop not guilty of raping prisoner Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Keith Thompson not guilty of raping a 15-year-old female prisoner while she A POLICE OFFICER walked was in custody at the from the High Court on Questelles Police Station, Wednesday after being July 10, 2011. freed of a rape charge The Jury returned a hanging over his head for majority verdict of 7 to 2, almost eight years. After which was accepted by deliberating for about the Court. three hours, a nineThe trial had member Jury, comprised of commenced at the six females and three Criminal Assizes last males, found Constable week Tuesday before

Prosecutor bashes cops for covering complaint CROWN COUNSEL Karim Nelson says it is not surprising that some people in this country think there are two sides to justice, one for the rich and one for the poor.

The Prosecutor’s comments came on Tuesday at the High Court Criminal Assizes while delivering closing arguments during the case in which Police Constable Keith Thompson was Karim Nelson, Crown charged with raping a 15- Counsel year-old female prisoner while she was in custody at the Questelles Police Station on July 10, 2011.

Nelson said that in all fairness to the Investigator, Inspector Sherol James, she worked with what she had, and he admits there are some very good officers in the police force. But the Prosecutor bashed PC Thompson’s colleagues at the Questelles Police Station for seeking to cover what happened.

Nelson said that when the victim complained to the officers, she was told not to say anything about it, and a statement was not taken from her until ten days later. “It took ten days to bring in Inspector James to investigate the complaint”, he underscored.

Nelson said none of the officers had told Thompson what the girl was saying about him, neither did they inform their superiors. He added that Inspector James told the Court that the officers at the Questelles Police Station were not cooperating with the investigations, and they were reluctant to give statements.

The state lawyer noted that one officer said, in his evidence, that the victim told him Thompson was her “man” and had sex with her; while another told the Court the girl told him that on the day in question, she gave Thompson sex.

“You understand what is happening. His friends and colleagues were covering for him.

Treat their evidence with a grain of salt”, he told the Jury.

According to Nelson, the officers dismissed the girl’s complaint because, “she is a juvenile delinquent, she is poor and she is a nobody to them”.

Justice Brian Cottle.

Thompson was represented by Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, while Crown Counsel Karim Nelson led the case for the Prosecution.

According to the virtual complainant’s evidence, on the afternoon of July 10, 2011, Thompson, who was on duty at the Questelles Police Station, took her to the washroom to urinate after she asked him to.

The girl said she pulled down her pants, and underwear, but when she turned around to flush the toilet, Thompson, who was standing outside, came from behind, grabbed her by the neck, placed her in a bending position and had sex with her, without her consent. He then took her back to her cell.

The complainant was among seven witnesses to testify for the Prosecution, including a number of police officers, one of whom told the Court that the girl told him, Thompson was her ‘man’ and usually had sex with her.

In his defence, Thompson, a police officer since 2001, denied that he raped the prisoner or had sex with her. He recalled that on July 9, 2011, he and other police officers from

the Questelles Police Station were on duty in the area for almost the entire day, and the following day, the Sergeant, at the time in charge of the station, told him to take a rest because he was not feeling well. He turned up for duty at midday, and another officer whom he identified as PC Verna John volunteered to stay with him at the station office downstairs.

Thompson said that at no time did the complainant ask him to use the washroom. He said the bathroom in her cell which includes facilities to urinate and deficate, was in working condition, and she was allowed to use it.

Healso recalled that on July 2, 2011, the complainant had escaped twice from the Questelles Station where she was held on remand. She was recaptured on both occasions, and instructions were issued for her not to be removed from her cell.

Thompson said he was transferred to the Central Police Station on July 19, 2011, and two days later he was relieved of duty, and asked to take off his uniform.

Constable Roderick John, who was out of state while the trial was ongoing, was not called

by the Prosecution but was subpoenaed to testify for the defence, via skype. He told the Court that the complainant told him Thompson took her to the washroom, and she gave him sex, but she was scared because she subsequently thought she was pregnant.

He admitted that police officers were not supposed to have sex with prisoners or juveniles in custody.

In his closing arguments, Nelson pointed out that, while there were inconsistencies in the complainant’s evidence, she maintained throughout that Thompson had sex with her, without her consent.

He said it was quite common, when dealing with events that took place several years ago, for witnesses not to remember details.

Nelson explained that it does not mean the complainant consented because she did not scream or fight up. He noted that she was in an environment where the police were in control, and she had to do what they told her.

But Bacchus-Baptiste argued that it was not just the inconsistencies, but the girl’s evidence was conflicting. She noted that in one of the

Keith Thompson not guilty for raping female prisoner. complainant’s witness statements, she said she pushed her hand through a rail and touched Thompson’s penis.

The lawyer said the complainant kept saying in her statement that she had sex with Thompson, and “in one little part she said, ‘without my consent’”.

The lawyer further argued that there was no other to corroborate the complainant’s story, and the medical evidence did not support the report of rape.

She questioned, “Why wasn’t there an internal investigation?”

Thompson was suspended on half pay, pending the outcome of the matter.

Con Artist jailed for six years SOCIETY will be spared of at least one notorious con artist for the next six years, but whether Iso Lynch with continue his acts of deception from behind bars, is anybody’s guess.

Lynch was on Wednesday, at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, sentenced to two

Iso Lynch

years each, on three charges of misrepresenting himself to be a police officer. The sentences are to run consecutively.

Lynch was also ordered to pay compensation for obtaining monies by deception from some of the persons to whom he misrepresented himself, though Magistrate Bertie Pompey reprimanded and discharged him on those charges.

Lynch, who was charged with misrepresenting himself to be officer Lynch to one Evans Lynch, was ordered to compensate the virtual complainant in the sum of $2,000. He has six months to repay the money, with an alternative of 12 months in prison.

Lynch, who was also

charged with misrepresenting himself to Gary Young as Inspector Samuel, was ordered to compensate Young in the sum of $2,700. He was ordered to repay the money in six months or 12 months in prison. He was further ordered to compensate Young in the sum of $1,000 to be paid in six months or six months behind bars.

Lynch had falsely identified himself as police officers, attached to the office of the Prime Minister, using fictitious names to obtain monies by pretending to be facilitating the process of issuing Firearm Licences.

Lynch had committed the offences on various occasions last year and early this year.

He had initially

pleaded not guilty to the charges, but changed his plea to guilty when he returned to Court on Wednesday.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, to whom Lynch referred as his daddy, said he knew Lynch, all his criminal life, and that Lynch sometimes speaks to him on the street; but he recommended a penalty that will reflect the seriousness of the offence.

“There must be a message of deterrence, and knowing the defendant’s record, he cannot get a slap on the wrist”. He noted there are persons “out there”, who might be doing likewise or intend to do likewise.

Lynch had 22 previous convictions, mainly for deception.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 5.

Politics

Getting ready to appeal petitions’ ruling The attorney, who is also an Opposition Senator, described last Wednesday’s ruling as not a legal victory but a political one.

“We have already established what we have always said - that the 2015 general elections were stolen. That there were numerous irregularities, and some of them were just not accidents,” the veteran lawyer said.

Errors in judgment Bacchus-Baptiste said that during the delivery of the ruling by Justice Attorney Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, legal John, there were some things that counsel for the petitioners, gave disturbed her, one being his comment indication of her clients’ intention to about there being only two petitions appeal Justice John’s ruling. filed.

She argued that there were 15 KAY BACCHUS-BAPTISTE, member of the elections conducted in 15 legal team representing the petitioners constituencies that collectively Lauron Baptiste and Benjamin Exeter in constitute a general election and that the election petitions trial, has disclosed was the reason why the petitions were that they are moving towards filing an filed separately. appeal of the decision handed down by The other comment of concern was Justice Stanley John. the Justice’s statement about there Baptiste and Exeter were New being no evidence, and that he had a Democratic Party candidates in the mere disquiet over the alleged bias. constituencies of North Windward and But the Organization of American Central Leeward respectively, in the States (OAS) team of observers of the general election of 2015.

2015 general election, reported on the Last week Thursday, Justice John bias demonstrated by the returning dismissed both petitions which alleged officer of Central Leeward, Winston irregularities in the conduct and Gaymes, she argued. counts in the constituencies which A meeting held at the chambers of they contested.

Lead Council Stanley ‘Stalky’ John The judge ruled that the petitioners Q.C. following the ruling, also arrived had failed to satisfy the Court on at what it (the meeting) saw as errors “direct creditable and compelling made by the judge. evidence on the many serious One such error she pointed to was allegations that they have pleaded.” the statement on the law as to what is required to declare an election void.

An appeal was always on They thought the judge was wrong and therefore, provided ground on Bacchus-Baptiste, however, while which they thought they could win in speaking on Thursday on a radio the appeal. programme, appealed to the She accused the judge of merging supporters of the NDP not to lose the elections — evident when he ruled faith, admitting that going into the that “the court holds that the breaches trial which started on February 11, the which took place during the general petitioners’ legal team always knew elections in Central Leeward and that the matter would be resolved in North Windward, did not affect the the Court of Appeal. result of the elections from a “We knew that if we won, the other qualitative and quantitate side was going to appeal…and perspective.” obviously if we lost, then we would Accordingly, the two petitions filed have also appealed,” Bacchus-Baptiste were bound to fail, she said, on the said. basis that it appeared to the court She referenced a number of that having considered all the decisions which went against the evidence, the elections were conducted government in the appellant court, in accordance with the law as to the including the case involving three elections. teachers - Kenroy Johnson, Elvis Then, Bacchus-Baptiste said, there Daniel and Addison Thomas. was a final comment in the judge’s Even the ruling made by Justice ruling that there was a lack of proper Brian Cottle to throw out the petitions training. had been reinstated after that decision “I don’t know how that can impact had been appealed, Baccchus said. a bad ballot paper design gone wrong,” “So that is customary; we Bacchus-Baptiste said. understand that whatever happens, we The experienced lawyer noted that end up in the court of appeal.” nowhere in the ruling was there any

indication that consideration was given to the evidence given by Cheryl Sutherland, a resident of North

Windward, who said that there was no final count in that constituency.

(DD)

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6. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Economy

Stakeholders discuss agro-tourism KEY PLAYERS in both the agricultural and tourism sectors met here for a twoday workshop Mar 19 and 20, aimed at developing a policy framework for the establishment of an agrotourism industry here.

The workshop was a

Ena Harvey, Agrotourism expert for IICA, showed the workshop how a merger of agriculture and tourism could be beneficial.

means to an end to protect tourism investment; tourism cannot be successful without a sustainable food production sector.

The facilitation, coordination and growth of an agro-tourism sector as a distinct economic activity, required the emergence of institutions and partnerships that can coordinate, plan and Benefits of a merger manage events together, Harvey proffered.

Ena Harvey, AgroIt was anticipated, she tourism expert for IICA, added, that some of the in making a presentation big projects identified on Opening Day, spoke of during the workshop will the benefits of merging go into the ‘basket’ for the two sectors, e.g. . access under the 11th direct benefit to EDF funding provided by individuals in the rural the European Union. communities, in that they retain a higher Linkages percentage of the money earned; the overall George Alcee, contribution it had to speaking on behalf of the food and land security, OECS, cited the practical and the overall economy example of the emerging of the country. medicinal marijuana But before a country industry as having the looked to benefit from an ability to be transformed agro-tourism industry, into something larger, she said, there were with the potential to some key things a positively impact country needed to tourism. remember: to “The investment understand why they opportunities go beyond were involved in tourism producing food for local and who should benefit hotels,” Alcee said, from it; local adding food tourism, communities cannot be festivals and parks, all an afterthought or a create memorable

collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Agriculture, etc., Ministry of Tourism, etc., the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), the Technical Centre for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).

experiences for visitors.

The OECS Representative advised that to achieve this vision meant having to acknowledge that tourism and agriculture can have benefits.

Agriculture and Tourism Minister of Tourism Cecil Mc Kie acknowledged that SVG’s economy was once dominated by activities in the agriculture sector.

Today, agriculture and now tourism have become the driving forces in the economy, and are major contributors to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), McKie continued.

He admitted that visitors were now moving towards something called experiential travel, i.e. a desire to connect with a destination’s history, people, environment and food.

“Agro-tourism is one

such industry that enables visitors to experience this authentic way of life,” McKie said.

From concept to reality Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar spoke about the process of moving from a concept to reality.

“We cannot only come and speak about it, but we have to do it,” Caesar said.

St. Vincent and the Greandines, if he was asked, needed to move from subsistence agrotourism to commercial.

“But there is something very important for the sustainability of any business,” he said, and proceeded to explain that if there were no customers, then there will be no viable business, and if there was no market, “you will realise that you will not be able to create the

George Alcee of the OECS referenced the medicinal marijuana industry has having the potential to positively impact tourism. livelihoods that you envisioned.”

Raising capital for the development of a commercial agro-tourism industry was also crucial, Caesar said.

The concept of agrotourism was an excellent one; however, Caesar cautioned that unless people remained devoted to it, and accepted that the development of such a sector was not going to happen overnight, then they will not be able to reap the rewards. (DD)

Workshop participants were expected to propose some ‘big projects’ for consideration.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 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

In search of democracy WE ARE LED TO SPECULATE, given all that has happened around in the last three decades or so, whether we should continue with this one man, one vote, two party system; where it is becoming more and more pellucid that party supporters are only interested in what they can get when their party forms government, and not in the development of the country for the benefit of all citizens.

We ask ourselves whether, in fact, in our type of Democracy, political parties find it fulfilling to their agenda to keep a segment of the population poor, uneducated and dependent on politicians, basking in the strong adherence to the view that this is one way of cultivating a base of support, i.e. voters?

Then as we ponder further, we come up with the question about whom politicians really care about.

Have they resigned to bobbing and weaving between a rich class — a source of party funding — and the poor — those who will vote? That they simply ignore the middle class or seek to destroy it, because that class is neither rich enough to fork out financing or are the ones most likely not to vote?

But then we come to a point in our reflection when we must consider whether we want a nation free of crime, one of equal opportunity, one with national health insurance, etc., in a state of limited democracy? Or would we prefer the opposite, i.e. to live in a full democracy with limited social, economic safety nets?

Those who cherish their inalienable rights as human beings, will certainly opt for a full Democracy, believing that this system inherently means encouraging a series of processes and policy decisions that promise genuine development and benefit for all citizens.

In so doing, they expect that this full Democracy will treat people as citizens, as adults, capable of making profound decisions, and taking moral action. This Democracy is not one of treating citizens like children who need forever to be guided and in the worst case, manipulated.

Those who want full Democracy, want to be entrusted with meaningful opportunities to participate in the political process

rather than to be treated as ‘robots’, who show up once every five years and spend five minutes in a polling station.

Those who seek a full Democracy are those who don’t subscribe to the adage that some people will always know more than others, so we ought to abdicate our rights to speak and participate to them.

A true Democracy is predicated on the belief that people can make meaningful decisions, and can handle power responsibly.

This is contrary to what seems to emanate from the practice of Democracy in the Caribbean, which speaks to most people being too ignorant or apathetic to participate integrally in political affairs, and therefore, must be continually led.

In a full Democracy, people will object to be told ‘Do it because I say so’. And if they don’t, then they fall prey to alienation from the political process and will forever be dependent on others.

This Democracy must mean and be characterized by a people exerting their power, not simply choosing from a menu prepared by ‘politcial elites and/or their agents.

This Democracy for which we yearn, must be one that is genuinely a representative/ participatory democracy, where a person votes for a politician to act as his/her agent in the halls of power, and not as a power unto themselves.

True Democracy is where citizens are no longer ignorant about what their representatives are doing, and whether what they are doing is good for us.

The question is: Has our ‘modern’ Caribbean Democracy descended to an exercise in which the extent of involvement of the people is to serve as rubber stamps on what the self-professed political elite say should obtain?

If this full democracy is not achieved, is it not better that, instead of wasting people’s votes in elections, that we have a lottery that randomly selects adults whom we entrust with the responsibility of representing the people’s interest?

That way, we can avoid the ‘I can’t recalls’ when questions of election irregularities arise in a less that true Democracy.

Interesting political reflections GIVEN MY PRESENT medical health, I simply cannot attempt to make sense of our current political situation which appears to be volatile, confusing and confused.

By next Easter, I ought to be in a state in which I could give a rational assessment, even though I could now suggest that Jerry George seems to me to be the man to watch.

Last week’s VINCENTIAN newspaper editorial was based on the presentation of the ideas of Vera Anne Brereton (which are solely needed to give teeth to our threadbare tourism policy), and broadly hinted that Vera was quietly shunned by governmental authorities, for whatever reasons.

Historically, I can remember that Vera and her sister, Janet, were my only two votes received in the Walker Piece, New Montrose, West Kingstown polling division in the 1974 election, on behalf of the DFM, called by Milton Catoites the “Damn Foolish Men”!

My only other partner was Eddie Griffith who received a paltry 78 votes in East Kingstown.

The DFMs “foolishness” had been demonstrated in Eddie’s announcement that the 22nd January holiday was a myth because Christopher Columbus had not set foot here on that date and possible not ever.

Our second heresy was that as a lawyer I was instructed by Eddie to enter his name as surety to any client charged with possession of marijuana, which he knew to be medicinal and as the holy herb in Rasta worship.

Eddie had been exhibited as a crank forty-five years ago for exposing the good of marijuana, and died regretted by the masses, of a massive heart attack while delivering a speech at the market square, but not before trouncing Burns Bonadie of the Labour Party in every polling station except Bishop’s College where there was a tie.

deliberate act of wickedness by the Minister of Education, St. Clair Dacon.

Decent suffered from bad Kidney problems, the “hard area” of Sand Bay compounded these problems. He eventually resigned and went to the UK whence he sent kidney machine to SVG, which the government studiously ignored. Decent was happy to note that one year before his death, a modern kidney hospital has at length been established at Georgetown, very near to where he was born. It took 45 years for the 21- year-old to have his dream of a kidney machine realised!

Andrew Cummings Coincidentally we note the first anniversary of the death of our brother, Andrew Cummings, who suffered from bad kidneys, but actually died from surgery necessitated by other related illnesses.

Andrew was a terrific loss to our community. Brilliant lawyer, political and philosophical, and is admired by every stratum of our society. Andrew would have been our best bet on working out an acceptable solution to the myriad problems that now confront us.

But that is wishful thinking. I, personally, will track down the thoughts of Jerry George who is emerging unscathed from the pack.

Royal Visit

We welcome Royal Visits to our shores. After all, the fact is that we were colonies of Great Britain whose rulership had not been the worst by any measure, and we gained much including the rule of constitutional Law and justice.

We are now independent. No point in looking back to our “dark ages” under colonial rule. We are to stress the positive as the rule of law in our current situation must be upheld. No pussyfooting or games of semantic played at Decent Henry the expense of the people who are to be guided by democratic creed.

Ten years before Eddie’s rousing Time that we drop some of the comeback, 1975 saw the war waged symbols of colonialism, especially names between the SVLP and the teachers. The of Streets and the Titles. We cannot deny Government won the first round brutally. our past, nor must we be hypocrite; Included as victim of the punitive nobody stop us from wiping the slate transfers was 21-year-old “Decent” Henry clean, which we can obtain by reaching transferred to Sandy Bay. It was a for Republican Status.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 9.

Letters

Thank you

Oh what a sorry bunch?

Dear Editors:

PLEASE CONVEY to your reporters how pleased I am with the way in which they handled the coverage of the Royal Visit on Wednesday, March 20th.

They were all very professional and cooperative, which made my job a lot easier than it otherwise would have been.

Thanks for their hard

PRESIDENT Trump invited a handpicked group of Caribbean Heads of Government to meet with him.

He kept them waiting, seated in front of the Exit. Note the sign above the door.

How much does this say?

Sincerely, Jennifer Richardson Director API St. Vincent and the Grenadines Editor’s Note: Subject to correction, but this ‘THANK YOU’ must be a first.

Does anybody remember 9/11?

DOES ANYBODY remember 9/11? Two of the planes flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third plane

Anon

Embrace the Bible ‘Famalay’, don’t I AM A YOUNG person who has found comfort and belonging in my church. The important thing here is not which church I belong to, but the fact that like all the other Christian denominations, we believe in the Word of the Bible.

To all my young friends and young people across the state, I want to say that contrary to what others might tell you, and contrary to all that you might read or see on your smart phones, the Bible is still the most relevant book in the world today.

The Bible is not like other books. The Bible is the only book that gives you information about and insight into God’s creation and His purpose for our lives, which means His plan for all humanity.

But even more important is that the Bible teaches us how to be moral, how to be uplifting in a world that seems to be descending into immorality.

The Bible has withstood the test of time, indicating that it will always be relevant regardless of time and place because, as it says in 11 Timothy 3:16-17, ‘it is the divine and inspired word of God’.

My friends, the Bible encourages and promotes godly living. If we read, accept and practise the principles it sets out, we will become better people, the kind that God wants us to be.

Cheryl K

forget the producer NO AMOUNT of praise is too much for Skinny Fabulous, Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin for coming together in true Caribbean love, to record the 2019 Trinidad Road March ‘Famalay’. It could be the start of a new wave of collaboration among Caribbean artistes, that hopefully, would send our music even further into the world.

I must, however, ask those who have welcomed the song, to spare a few moments of recognition and commendation for the producer of the song Dominican Krishna “Dada” Lawrence.

Calypsonians should follow suit I TAKE IT that Trinidad and Tobago has, if it didn’t before 2019, welcomed our own Skinny Fabulous as one of their own also. After all, they made it possible for him to become the first nonTrinidadian to have his name etched into the history of that country’s Road March competition. He has done what others tried and came close to achieving.

Now, as Trinidad and Tobago embrace Skinny, it is high time that those Vincy calypsonians who have been going overseas to have their calypsos written for them,

work; I look forward to working with them again when next the need arises.

come forward and acknowledge who these writers are. After all, some of these calypsonians have won the Calypso Monarch Title here, so why can’t we know who these writers are, so we can acknowledge them and even celebrate with them?

It is only fair… we know when Problem Child works with some of the big Trinidad artistes, and who Skinny has been working with, so what is stopping our calypsonians from owning up and letting us know who their foreign writers are?

Open Mouth

From what I read in an interview with Lawrence, it was he who came up with the ‘riddim’ and sent it to Skinny who built on it and wrote the lyrics.

Skinny then approached Machel who grabbed on to it immediately and then invited Bunji to join them. He had no hesitation.

Now, ‘Famalay’ is big, we must not leave Krishna “Dada” Lawrence out of the shower of accolades. He is as much responsible for the hit as any of the singers and the lyricist.

Charles

that hit the Pentagon just outside Washington, D.C., and the fourth plane that crashed in a field in Pennsylvania, were all flown by nationals of Saudi Arabia.

But, even against that reality, ‘The US is rushing to transfer sensitive nuclear power technology to Saudi Arabia, according to a new congressional report.

A Democratic-led House panel has launched an inquiry over concerns about the White House plan to build nuclear reactors across the kingdom.

Whistleblowers told the panel it could destabilise the Middle East by boosting nuclear weapons proliferation.

Firms linked to the president have reportedly pushed for these transfers.

The House of Representatives’ Oversight Committee report notes that an inquiry into the matter is “particularly critical because the

Open Letter to Rastafari in SVG GREETINGS to I and I Rastafari Community in St. Vincent. Special blessings to I and I of the Houses of Nyahbinghi, The Bobo, The Twelve Tribes, endless love to the Rastafari Community in St. Vincent as a whole.

The time has come to experience the bliss of togetherness. It is the time to create a masterplan to eliminate poverty amongst I and I. We need to farm to produce organic food for ourselves and others at the market place. The time has come to take control of our culinary skills amongst I and I. Time to live the creed. Time to fund our creed.

A people with no vision will be left to nought. We’ve got to forgive ourselves and all others who have trespassed against I and I. We need to apologize to each other, just be humble and say you’re sorry. We got to give thanks for life, for love and peace. We got to be able to tell your brothers and sisters I love you, and let the love be real.

Let I and I be in one accord.

It’s a different time, it’s a different age, we have all fallen short, but we have been great sometimes. Let the Most High lead I and I way forward.

Ras Bobby Caribbean Herbalist

Administration’s efforts to transfer sensitive US nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia appear to be ongoing”. President Donald Trump met nuclear power developers at the White House on 12 February to discuss building plants in Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia............And Mr Trump’s son-in-law, White House adviser Jared Kushner, will be touring the Middle East this month to discuss the economics of the Trump administration’s peace plan.

Shared by ‘Paddy’ Corea

* If the footage that captured the vehicular mishap involving Nick Ross was made available to the police on condition that it not be shared otherwise, who leaked it so that it went viral on social media? Was it shared initially with another party? * What’s the latest with those Resource Centres? Any truth in what school children are saying that their ownership will be or have been turned over to a state corporation that has shown a liking for accumulating real estate? * Why are people saying that Dr. Friday can’t beat Dr. Gonsalves at his own games.. Road Blocks included?

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10. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

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Excerpts from the Ministerial Statement on LIAT

The way forward for marijuana in SVG

…Continued from last week

On Monday 1st April 2019, the Unity Labour Party (ULP) Administration will introduce legislation to parliament to amend the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act. The Act, among other things, will allow for a $500.00 fine of a person found in possession of 56 grammes or less of cannabis.

This is as good a time as any to reiterate the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) position on marijuana.

It was the NDP, through the parliamentary representative for the constituency of North Leeward Roland ‘Patel’ Matthews and Senator, Israel Bruce, who had made the call at a political meeting in Kingstown in 2018, for the government to decriminalize small quantities of marijuana for recreational use; and promised that the NDP will decriminalize small quantities of marijuana for recreational purposes when it gets into office. Bearing in mind, the ULP administration at the time had planned to introduce the Medical Cannabis Industry Bill to parliament.

The NDP is fully in tune with the developments that are taking place worldwide, and is cognizant of the local and regional, with regard to the usage of marijuana as medicine and for recreation. As a result, the NDP has outlined its position on marijuana: * The NDP supports the initiative of cannabis/marijuana for medical purposes, and publicly called for this long before the Medical Cannabis Industry Bill. * We will focus primarily on traditional farmers and locals who must benefit from the industry. * Appropriate land tenure and licensing strategies must be developed to assist small landless traditional farmers who currently squat. * For the first three (3) years of the regulated industry, licences should be given to plots of one acre or less. * Decriminalize possession of up to two (2) ounces of marijuana. * Permit possession of two (2) ounces or less for personal use, with appropriate restrictions for use in public places. * Completely expunge all records of convictions for persons convicted of possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana (including persons currently serving prison sentences.) * Consider making reparations for persons who paid fines for possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana. * Permit use of the herb for religious purposes without state harassment or discrimination * Permit an individual household to grow up to 5 marijuana trees. * Encourage meaningful partnerships between traditional farmers and local and foreign investors. * Encourage marijuana related industries in a regulated environment. * Work towards legalization of marijuana eventually. * A Marijuana Farmers Association must be promoted.

Concerns: * The NDP concludes that the Medical Cannabis Industry Bill and the Cannabis Cultivation Amnesty Bill did very little to change the status of marijuana growers. * Most marijuana farmers are landless since they squatted on crown lands. * The empowerment of traditional and local farmers is not promoted in

MEANWHILE, over the last six months, not a single government outside of the four main shareholder governments responded positively with an offer of any funding to advance the Restructuring Option as originally proposed. As Chairman of the Shareholders of LIAT, I have failed to persuade any of the governments to come to the table for this Option. Mia Mottley, the distinguished Prime Minister of Barbados, with abundant energy and skill has thus far been unable to prod the reluctant governments forward. Six months ago, I jokingly told Mia that in respect of three of the non-shareholder governments which we were targeting in the first round, that only one would eventually come to the table though kicking and screaming; a second would knock the shine off her ball; and the third would leave it alone outside the off-stump.

I was speaking from experience.

In short, the original Restructuring Option is in tatters. It required, among other things, four essential funding elements: Addressing the old debt; providing transition funding; securing more flexible and affordable contracts with the pilots and other employees; and defining a model which includes all the territories contributing going forward.

Guadeloupe, St. Martin, and Puerto Rico. Response deadline is March 15, 2019.

2. Meetings have been held with major lessors. Other meetings are scheduled.

3. Meetings have been held with the Caribbean Development Bank and the Antigua Commercial Bank.

4. Preliminary meetings held between the unions and management.

5. Preparations have been made to brief further all stakeholders on the plan going forward.

Minimum Revenue Guarantee

LIAT’s management envisages that the draft Minimum Revenue Guarantee from 12 territories (Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Marten, St. Vincent, Tortola, and Trinidad) will yield some US $16 million annually. The MRG will address funding going forward but not the old debt, CDB and otherwise, including the requested US $5.4 million immediately.

The MRG model may cause a reduction in the flight schedule.

Amended option Today, I leave Parliament early this afternoon to travel to Barbados to chair Accordingly, the shareholders have a meeting of the main shareholder agreed to amend the original governments, management, and the Restructuring Option to ensure LIAT’s trade unions representing LIAT’s survival and continuance. The issue of employees. This urgent meeting was a converting the CDB debt to equity is a mandate to me from the shareholders’ work in progress, but the governments of Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, and meeting in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Saturday March 09, St. Vincent and the Grenadines are 2019. I have already secured the servicing their share of that debt. personal commitments of the three This amended Restructuring Option leaders of the main unions, including calls for a burden-sharing approach, LIALPA, based in Antigua-Barbuda. including all stakeholders, labour, This is a vital meeting in the further lessors of seven of the aircrafts, progress of the amended restructuring suppliers, and financiers. It involves, option. too, the introduction of a Minimum Last Saturday, Mia Mottley, jokingly Revenue Guarantee (MRG) Model from all countries served by LIAT to be made called the MRG. “Mr. Ralph Guarantee”.

I told her that the acronym MRGs effective from April 2019. If there are means “Mia, Ralph, Gaston, and unfavourable responses from the Skerritt”. But the MRGs require the various territories served by LIAT and involvement of the governments of all from the unions in respect of certain countries served by LIAT. proposals, the shareholders may LIAT’s request for emergency funding consider further options including reducing the number of aircraft or even of US $5.4 million (which the shareholders have asked to be refined) starting a new company. LIAT is is based on the percentage of flights prepared to expand its code-sharing with other airlines on particular routes (departures per week). The four main shareholders (Barbados, Antiguaserved by it.

Barbuda, St. Vincent and the The amended Restructuring Option Grenadines, Dominica) and Grenada received endorsement by the have agreed to provide emergency Shareholders of LIAT at a meeting in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, chaired funding, but none other as yet. But these five countries of eight potential by me, on Saturday March 09, 2019.

The draft MRG model is to be revised by contributors, are being asked by LIAT’s the management, with input from other management to provide US $4.134 million or 76.5 percent of the US $5.4 technical persons, including from St. million reflecting 76.5 percent of the Vincent and the Grenadines. total of flight departures as follows: Between the conclusion of the CARICOM inter-sessional meeting on February 27, 2019, and now, several positive developments regarding LIAT have emerged. First, management is refining its US $5.4 million immediate funding request to address certain outstanding operational payments; second, Grenada, through its Prime Minister, the Hon. Keith Mitchell, has announced its willingness immediately to contribute to the US $5.4 million funding request and to the MRG; thirdly, several governments at least theoretically, have no quarrel with the MRG – if a country wants a particular flight and it is not viable financially for LIAT, that country pays a guarantee for its operation; fourthly, promising tentative signs have come from meetings with some of LIAT’s lessors, suppliers, and financiers.

In this evolving saga of LIAT, management has already done the following: 1. Sent MRG letters to eleven territories but not as yet to Martinique,

the bills. * The Cannabis Cultivation Amnesty Bill is flawed and exposes traditional farmers to financial loss. * No financial support is provided for traditional farmers who struggled to create the industry.

The advancement in science and technology has exposed many myths and falsehoods surrounding marijuana. The discussion on the way forward is hindered by varying views rooted in baseless and unfounded statements regarding marijuana and its usage. Every day, the world is rapidly opening up to the understanding that marijuana, a herb, is not a narcotic but a plant with many benefits for mankind.

The NDP is of the opinion that St. Vincent and the Grenadines should take a serious look at what is taking place worldwide, and come to the realization that the prohibition of marijuana usage is quickly breaking down. Our efforts should be geared towards preparing our fragile economy to take full advantage of the benefits of marijuana in a manner that will give all stakeholders involved the advantages that this industry has to offer.

Over the years, Vincentian ganja farmers have done fairly well using their expertise and gained market for their brand of marijuana. During those years, many lives have been lost: through transporting the product on the high seas; guarding their bases during harvesting of the crop, and from police raids such as Vincy Pac. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a niche in recreational marijuana, and every effort should be made to expand now that countries are legalizing and decriminalizing for the use of the herb for recreational usage. When Canada legalized marijuana, their entire stock of recreational marijuana was sold out within hours. This is a great opportunity for our embassies and trade missions abroad to start the process of engagement with businesses and look for opportunities.

With the change in attitude among most people around the world, and available scientific data to support the long held view that marijuana is a relatively safer product when compared to cigarettes and alcohol, it is insulting to sensible people to continue with this prohibitionist view and should not be given any relevance in today’s discussion on the way forward regarding marijuana.

Therefore, the party takes on board the view of the CARICOM Commission on Marijuana which states, “A too limited approach to law reform, including one that focuses on medical marijuana would be counterproductive and inimical to the goals of Caribbean developments as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and endorsed by CARICOM.” The NDP also supports the view of the report of the Commission that declares, “All criminal penalties from marijuana laws should be removed.”

The world is beginning to recognize and accept marijuana as a herb with medicinal values, and the stigma that has been wrongfully attached to it for over 100 years is eroding rapidly.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 11.

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Making time to laugh

“Cheerfulness is the best promoter of health, and is as friendly to the mind as to the body.” –Joseph Addison (1672–1719) English essayist, poet, and dramatist.

THIS WRITER WILL BE THE FIRST to admit that he does not carve out enough time to laugh. This reality recently surfaced after receiving a “joyful clout” from a dear friend and regular reader of this column, following my teasing him about having a swollen jaw. The resulting laughter from the gentle pat behind the head was a useful reminder of the importance of making time to laugh – even amidst our busy schedules and hectic lifestyles.

My father had a contagious laugh.

He would often display this whenever he read the section of the Reader’s Digest that featured “Laughter is the Best Medicine”. It is therefore quite understandable (and not surprising) that the other inhabitants in the house would be most anxious to discover what was responsible for his “jolly outbursts”. As a result, we also developed a keen interest in reading some of those “witty clips from foreign writers”.

It is good to laugh. And many of us do not engage in this healthy activity as often and for as long as we should.

We take life far too seriously at times.

There are many academics and researchers who have provided ample evidence of laughter’s significant positive contributions to physical and emotional health. Data confirms that regular doses of laughter strengthen the immune system, boost mood, diminish pain, and enable the individual to better deal with stress.

Research also confirms that positive emotions serve a protecting function and provide a useful remedy to the problems associated with negative emotions and ill health.

The late George Phillips, alias “Black Magic”, stands out head and shoulder above any other contenders in relation to making jokes and laughing about self. He had an uncanny ability to entertain his friends and associates whenever there was a gathering. He laughed (and encouraged others to laugh) about his experiences in England where his “blackness” was pronounced. He shared many jokes about young Caucasian children being mesmerized by the dark pigmentation of his skin as they sought to rub their hand against his forearm “to see if the blackness would rub off”. He entertained us with episodes related to driving his car in the night and observing police officers staring in his direction in awe having concluded that the car was self-driven … until he smiled at them and the reflection from his teeth confirming that there was indeed someone at the wheel.

But probably the most memorable “laughing moment” was related to his story that he shared about his first encounter with a revolving door while he was in Manhattan, New York. He recalled that his dear wife, Ruby, had accompanied him to do some shopping and decided to pause briefly while they sought to understand how this revolving door worked. During those fleeting moments, Ruby noticed that an unattractive, slow-moving gentleman entered the door and a young, energetic, handsome young man exited. With excitement in her voice, and a smile on her face, she

ushered George to enter the establishment while she waited on the outside to greet “the new George”.

The late Vincent “Killer” Hadaway had a joke to share each time he gathered with friends and associates.

He had a way of punctuating the most serious conversations with a joke. In his own style, he would prolong the conversations with his comment that, “This one is for you before you go.” He would then proceed to share some tale from his “barber shop days in New York”. He had a special way of “playing on or with words”. This was evident when he shared the story about a woman from the country side (no offence meant by the description) who visited the hospital in Kingstown seeking some medical attention. The foreign medical intern who was on duty had difficulty understanding her dialect but made a concerted effort to assist. The conversation went something like this: Intern: “How can I assist you, Madam?”

Lady: “I am here for a contamination.”

Intern: “You mean an examination.”

Lady: “Look, I don’t know what you call it, but I ain’t demonstrate for the last three months and ah believe ah stagnant.”

Vincent “Killer” Hadaway and George “Black Magic” Phillips both had a wide repertoire of jokes. They were gifted story tellers who were capable of lighting up the dark spaces in our lives through comedy. They have left a positive legacy of how best to create and sustain humour … even when engulfed and constrained by tragedies.

Even amidst tragedies, we can find time to laugh. William Shakespeare (1564-1616), the famous English playwright and actor, once commented that “Where there is tragedy there is humour.” Dr. Gil Greengross, writing in his blog entitled “When do tragedies become funny?,” refers to a comment that was shared by Erma Bombeck who noted that, “There is a thin line that separates laughter and pain, comedy and tragedy, humor and hurt.”

The contents in the preceding paragraph is not intended to trivialize the trauma that so often accompanies a tragedy. Neither is it intended to take individuals closer to a state of insanity. However, there is value in learning to smile (if not laugh) at many of life’s difficult moments. It is possible that when we are overtaken by life’s tragic moments, when heartache is burdensome and misery magnified, and our pain and suffering intense, it is possible to secure some emotional relief through some “lighter moments”. Sometimes, when we come face-to-face with the fact that we are unable to change life’s tragic circumstances, humour can be a useful strategic tool in the emotional recovery toolkit. This is as good a time as any for us to commit to making time to laugh.

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

What would Jesus say?

THE RECENT DECISION by the Privy Council to deny Joseph Ewart Layne the right to practise law in Grenada, has evoked a diverse set of emotions, some raw, others calculated, and still others convenient. Ewart Layne was one of the members of the New Jewel Movement leadership convicted for the murder of Maurice Bishop and others on October 19, 1983.

It has been 33 years since the sentence of death was delivered. Many of the persons commenting could be excused if no mention was made of the fact that the trial was organized, orchestrated and paid for by the American invading force, that statements obtained through torture and coercion were admitted to evidence as freely given. The Privy Council decision noted that ‘it has been said, not just by Mr. Layne but also by independent observers, that there were serious irregularities in his original trial.’ But that’s an aside because the conviction was not a live issue before the Council.

Raw emotions are understandable because a beacon went out across the Caribbean with the execution of PM Bishop, leader of the People’s Revolutionary Government, and the subsequent American invasion.

However, the calculated and convenient commentaries are most galling.

Firstly, many of those celebrating the Privy Council’s verdict are the same ones who are vociferously opposed to a Caribbean Court as our highest judicial body. Few of those celebrating the verdict have stopped to acknowledge that the Privy Council broke no new legal ground in this case. It simply upheld a decision of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal.

If the Privy Council upheld the Court of Appeal more often than it overturns it, and it does, it stands to reason that the decisions of our Court of Appeal are solid and should be respected. It cannot be that we cherry pick and laud the decisions we favour, and damn those we don’t like. The Privy Council’s decision tells us that our Court is solid and will serve us well.

The Privy Council decision is a good one, but could have and should have gone the other way. The Council concluded: ‘The fact that Mr. Layne is now a man of good standing in the community, is certainly a necessary requirement for the good character condition for admission to the Bar of Grenada to be satisfied, but it is not in itself enough.

Public confidence in the profession had also to be considered. The judge’s assessment was that there was sufficient risk that it would be damaged by acceding to Mr. Layne’s application and so that facet of the good character condition was not met.’

Here is a man who was convicted of serious offenses 36 years ago. He was 25 years at the time. He spent 26 calendar or 40 prison years in jail. During this period, he used his time to acquire a first and then a graduate degree in Law, an accounting degree and then the professional ACCA. On his release in 2009, Layne went to the Hugh Wooding Law School and obtained the Legal Education Certificate (LEC) as well as a graduate certificate in Legislative Drafting. All of these obtained with distinction.

The issue for the court in Grenada was whether Layne had a sufficiently good character and whether his admission to practise poses a risk that public confidence in the profession will

be damaged. The issue that weighed heavily on the mind of the judge was the conviction. Justice Price Findlay suggested that, had Layne committed the offences while he was a practising attorney, he would have certainly been disbarred. Therefore, she seemed to base her good character decision on the fact that, the conviction would, of necessity, bar Layne from being admitted to the bar. Judge Sumption also suggested that convictions of the nature in this case almost definitively disbar someone from being admitted.

Justice Kerr, the lone dissenter, radically disagreed with this line of thinking. He wanted the case sent back to the Grenada High Court for rehearing of the issue of ‘good character and the risk posed by the conviction.’ He believed that Justice Price Findlay and the Court of Appeal wrongly applied the good character test. Justice Kerr maintained that the test had to be applied was not on one who was convicted for serious crimes but whether a good character was built up and established subsequent to the conviction, especially during the years as a prisoner and the stellar academic achievement of Layne.

On its face, our society is very religious. We proclaim firm and abiding belief in the Holy Bible and the teachings of Christ. Given the chance to describe the singular significant of Christ, most of us will point to forgiveness, redemption and second chance.

The Principles of Sentencing are Punishment, Deterrent, Retribution and Rehabilitation. Layne was imprisoned for 26 years. Citizens could glean from Layne’s case that, if you committed a crime, you will have to do the time.

Society got to demonstrate its retributive powers and authority. Layne is fully rehabilitated. He lived a stellar life as a prisoner and used the time to educate himself. For the last ten years as since his release, he remained a lawabiding citizen. All three courts commended him on his performance to date.

What would Jesus say? Would he demand continued retribution or would he use Layne in the same way the redeemed Saul morphed into Paul and became so central to the New Testament? What about redemptive justice? Layne has clearly demonstrated that mistakes made early in life are not a predictor of who you become. He stoically stands as the perfect exhibit of someone who has dramatically turned his life around.

Courts are big on the demonstration of remorse by those found guilty.

Layne’s profound reflections and remorse are palpable. He has spoken painfully and powerfully about his errors of judgement that caused him to lose most of his adult life to prison. In matters like these, I have no doubt as to where Jesus would stand. Layne is the role model to place on the pedestal.

Instead, our judicial system refused to accord him the stage on which to magnify his example through the practice of law. Grenadian society is the clear loser for this decision.

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

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12. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

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Paying airlines to fly to SVG is stupid THE DISCLOSURE in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper on Friday 22nd March 2019 by the CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority, Glen Beache, that the ULP regime was paying the airline CAL to service SVG, from the day of its inaugural flight at the AIA, is an outrage.

Spending $1.5 billion to build the Argyle International Airport was meant to be good for our country. We were told that it would boost the economy. However, paying millions of dollars to airlines to ‘beg’ them to fly to SVG, is not an example of money coming into our country, but rather money going out.

The SVG economy cannot be boosted by paying airlines millions of dollars. The economy will only be weakened further. It is abundantly stupid to give away millions of dollars to airlines like CAL to ‘beg’ them to fly to SVG. The fact that airlines have to be paid millions of dollars to fly to SVG, clearly shows that no cost/benefit analysis was done before the Argyle

airport was built; to see if there was a demand from airlines for direct international flights from Canada, USA or other places beyond the Caribbean.

It illustrates the financial incompetence of the ULP regime, i.e. that they would waste $1.5 billion on building a project, before finding out if it was needed or if it will make money for our country.

Paying millions of dollars to airlines to ‘beg’ them to fly to SVG, has not created a boost in tourism in SVG. Many of the people who use CAL in and out of SVG are Vincentians.

There is no boost to the tourism sector as they visit and stay with family.

This is confirmed by the comments a number of taxi drivers have made to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party. Those taxi drivers say that they often wait all day at the Argyle airport and get no business/trip. They say passengers arriving are mainly Vincentians who

get picked up by their family or hop on a bus.

The ULP regime is effectively paying millions of dollars for Vincentians to visit their family, which they would have done anyway.

There is no boost to tourism.

Tourism could never be the engine of the SVG economy. As Argyle airport shows, the rate of return from any investment in tourism is almost zero.

Therefore, why give priority to driving the SVG economy with tourism? Why waste millions of dollars paying airlines to fly to SVG? Heavily subsidised direct flights to SVG are unsustainable. There is no financial profit to be made by paying airlines. There is no positive economic impact on the SVG economy. On top of all the millions of dollars lost in paying airlines to fly to SVG, we have

been told that about $20 million annually is also ‘lost’ on maintaining Argyle airport.

The whole concept of tourism in SVG and the Argyle airport is a massive financial drain on the country and the economy. Paying airlines to fly to SVG just adds to the financial loss.

The success of small states lies in investing in high-quality education not tourism. History will show that ULP regime’s focus on tourism as the engine of the SVG economy is a failure.

SVG Green Party

Insufficient evidence and little truth: Does it really matter?

THE VERDICT handed down by the High Court Thursday 21st March 2019 on the 2015 Election Petitions, has left many people puzzled. What did the people who attended the court sessions hear? From the articles in the newspapers whose reporters covered the much anticipated hearing, it would seem that “damnable” evidence was presented in the court.

Notwithstanding, it was insufficient for the learned Judge to make a judgement that many were anticipating. Wow! But where is the truth in this whole saga? I have been “advised” that the Court is there to hear evidence and not necessarily the truth. If that is the case, why then are witnesses asked to take the oath “to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth”? I have been further advised that it is the job of a “Commission of Enquiry” to gather evidence and establish the truth of a matter. WOW! So in this case, we the people are a little more knowledgeable about some of the things that went on during the election, but are we closer to the truth?

Can we the people understand the “mysteries” of these men in robes and wigs, who allow witnesses, with no previous or subsequent evidence of any mental problems, to stand before the court and declare that they “cannot recall”? We have read of cases where “Counsels” have presented evidence that an accused was insane at the time when he committed the crime and, therefore, was incapable of providing the court with “acceptable evidence.” We may chuckle at anecdotes of court theatricals, and

legal gymnastics such as bawling like goat, or pretending to be dumb or admitting to certain lifestyles as evidence before the court, to secure a favourable verdict. And such learned counsels may be regarded as brilliant, and their cases have entered into the annals of Historical Court Cases to be quoted as precedence; but what was really the truth of the matter? Are these just court trivia or miscarriages of justice?

It is my opinion that when subterfuge and cunning are used to subvert justice, it is not a laughing matter. When “Truth and Justice”, the foundational pillars of a civilized society are shaken, there is only one outcome - collapse of that society. We are part of a society where morality, ethics and decency still mean something.

In the case referred to above, the court heard the evidence and, based on that evidence, delivered its verdict; but do we as a people really know the truth, and does it matter that we do?

Some of us who appeared before the court, and some who didn’t, know the truth, and we were given the opportunity to tell it. Did we? We may die without ever revealing it; till then, we have our consciences with which to live. But what about us, the other people, does it really matter?

It matters that we know the truth, because trust, which is so vital to a society’s survival, can only be exercised if I believe you, and you believe me. And for me to believe you, I must have evidence and confidence that you are telling the truth. Do we as people believe and trust one another, our leaders and our institutions? The people are still pondering! Do we?

A matter unresolved in the minds of the people is not settled. “He who hides the wrong he did, does the wrong thing still.” The people are still wondering, will they ever get the truthful evidence of this matter?

Philmore Isaacs

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 13.

Business

Buccament Resort investors donate to schools THE NEW INVESTORS of the Buccament Bay Resort have already begun to demonstrate good corporate citizenship, even as they are still in the preparatory stages of re-opening the Resort.

Last Tuesday, two of the new investors in the Resort, Kelly Glass and Barry Ferdinand journeyed to the community to present 21 whiteboards and other accessories to the Buccament Government and Buccament Bay Secondary schools.

Principal of the Buccament Bay Secondary School - Godwin Martin said that when he became principal of the school, one of the first things he looked at was the health of his teachers and student. “I said we need white board, we need our children with minimized chalk dust, and also it will help students to focus a little more,” said Martin. .

“We deeply appreciate the white boards, and we are going to do everything to ensure they are kept in the right state,” assured the principal, adding that the only concern was

security, since a number of school windows are missing and the gate at the front is practically useless.

Martin took the time out to hail the success of the school in the last CSEC exam, reminding that a student gained 10 passes. He quipped that there were students who will challenge that acehievemnt this year, with a number of them sitting 11 subjects..

Former MP for Central Leeward, Maxwell Charles, said that the investors have donated 14 white boards to the Buccament Secondary School and 7 to the Buccament Government School. He expressed thanks to the donors.

Charles gave a background to the donation, saying that when the schools’ need was made known to him, he spoke with Ms. Jacqueline Roberts of SVG Heritage & Arts Organisation. She worked along with the investors, and on the 14th of March, the items were shipped to SVG, with BRASA installing the boards.

Participants and facilitators of the Skills Training and Development Project for women in Byera.

Byesave-Vinsave receives assistance

VINSAVE and its subsidiary Byesave Organisation are the recipients of funds from the Direct Aid Programme (DAP), of the Australian High Commission in Trinidad and Tobago.

The funds are for the sole purpose of executing a Skills Training and Development Project for women in Byera, and other communities, which is already in train.

A release for Vinsave dated March 22, 2019, said that twenty (20) women are participating in this three (3) month project at the Byesave Community Centre, which will focus on training participants in wine-making, curing chicken to be used in making hams, and fruit preservation, among other skills.

The objective of the project is to equip the women with skills for sustainability, the release stated further.

It is anticipated that the women innvolved in the training programme would become part of a Women’s Group which will enter into production and sale of some of the goods they would have been trained to produce.

The main facilitator of the group is certified trainer Ms. Licha Goddard, of Mesopotamia.

A Graduation and Exhibition of work will be held in June 2019 at the Byesave Community Centre.

The former MP said that the investors are already showing their willingness to help the youth in the community, and he appealed to the students to refrain from abusing the items donated.

Investor Barry Ferdinand said that when Roberts contacted him, he instantly felt obligated to help, and that is what he did. He appealed to the students to show respect and focus on their education.

Kelly Glass said that the investors hope to build a good relationship with the community; that they are planning on giving back even more.

He told the students that there was a wealth of opportunity in the hospital industry, and he is confident that persons will get more job opportunities; but he warned that it will take sacrifice. “It’s about discipline, it’s about working hard and focus,” said Glass.

Deputy Chief Education Officer Dixton Findlay said that when investors give back, it is an important step, and he also called on the students to make use of the assistance.

The investors will also allow the students from the secondary school to use the Buccument Resort facility for cricket practice.

Area Representative Sir Louis Straker

Investors Kelly Glass (2nd from right) and Barry Ferdinand (2nd from right) with School/Education officials and Maxwell Charles (left) at last Tuesday’s handing over. appealed to the students to put their school on the map and to do their best.

“If you have failed in the past that is not final… pick yourselves up, get in your books, do the best you can, have an aim , an ambition. Where you see I am now …. one of you can take my place, not only as

Deputy Prime Minister but as Prime Minister,” said Sir Louis Straker Straker also presented Cricket equipment to the Buccument Secondary School, and said that he would be giving some of the items to the Central Leeward Secondary School as well. He pledged his

commitment to the school, and appealed to them to ask him for assistance whenever they are in need.

The investors announced that they will open the Buccument Resort sport facilities to be used for cricket practice by the students.

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14. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports Feature

CWI: Skerritt-Shallow in, Cameron-Nanthan out

RICKY SKERRITT is the new President of Cricket West Indies (CWI). The Kittitian defeated Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, last Sunday.

In so doing, Skerritt’s running mate, Vincentian Dr. Kishore Shallow, now fills the seat of Vice President, replacing his fellow Windward Islander, Dominican Emmanuel Nanthan.

By the official count, Skerritt and his running mate Dr. Shallow defeated incumbents Cameron and Nanthan by an 8-4 margin.

Unofficially, it is reported that Skerritt and Shallow managed to secure the support of Trinidad and Tobago, Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and Cameron’s home nation Jamaica. The incumbents are believed to have

received the support of Barbados and Guyana.

Cameron, who has been a CWI director since 2002, served as vice president under Julian Hunte from 2007 - 2013 before beating Hunte to the post in 2013.

He had held the position since and was looking to secure a fourth successive two-year term.

Observers say that he is largely credited for the professionalisation of regional cricket, but has been heavily criticised in some quarters for his poor relationship with key players, and his general failure to help marshal a consistently successful senior regional team programme.

On his watch, the Windies team, while struggling in the world rankings, claimed two T20 world titles, and the women’s and youth titles.

Skerritt, 62, a former St Kitts and Nevis government minister and

Ricky Skerritt of St. Kitts and Nevis promises greater transparency and commitment.

(Photo: LOOP News) commit to the establishment of term Expressions of disappointment quickly removed limits. any smiles of contentment when ‘Dave’ Cameron Skerritt warned of the and Emmanuel Nanthan heard the results. need for the regional governing body to change manager of the senior according to a Jamaica course in order to confront West Indies cricket team, Gleaner report. the challenges before it. and Dr. Shallow, He went further, as per He said he and Shallow President of the St. a Sports Max report, to would bring an inclusive Vincent and the say that the incumbent approach to the Grenadines Cricket did not have enough of a management of West Association, campaigned pro-cricket stance with his Indies cricket, ensuring on the need for greater governance, and failed to that all critical transparency and commitment.

Skerritt promised that his leadership style “will bring about the governance and performance principles necessary to push West Indies cricket forward,”

Dr. Kishore Shallow will bring his record of success at the local and sub-regional cricketing level to bear on his new position. stakeholders play a role in helping to develop the game.

However, Skerritt said what was just as important, was the level of leadership ability and integrity, which would become the hallmark of CWI leadership, once he and Shallow were elected.

(Source: Jamaica Gleaner, Sports Max, LOOP News)

Ricky Skerritt (3rd from right) and Dr. Kishore Shallow (right) got full support from the T&T delegation (from left) Kerwin John, Sukesh Maniam, Arjoon Ramlal and Azim Bassarath.

Skerritt welcomes majority vote SPEAKING TO THE MEDIA following his election as President of Cricket West Indies (CWI) last Sunday in Jamaica, Kittitian Ricky Skerritt admitted, “I am not even sure where the eight votes came from, but I can tell you that everybody has the right to privacy with their votes.”

It was expected, going into Sunday’s CWI Annual General Meeting and elections, that the race for Presidency was going to be a close one.

The race turned out to be an overwhelming 8-4 victory for the Skerritt-Shallow ticket, but even with that margin of victory, Skerritt was cautious, saying, “In this business, we have learnt that if the message resonates with individuals, even those individuals who may have what you call a mandate, and if they feel strongly enough about an issue, they will actually go against the mandate.”

He felt assured that he and his partner, Dr. Kishore Shallow of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, had built their voting base by being consistent with good ideas, and reached out with a positive campaign.

He pledged to work for the improvement of West Indies cricket, on and off the field.

Dr. Shallow was also grateful, stating

that: “My role in this is to support my president 100%, to keep him energised and focused and challenge him. I am grateful and humbled by the support of the members of the territorial board.

This is a victory for West Indies cricket.”

Cameron, who was first elected in 2013, was pleased about his six-year run in office.

He, however, and not unexpectedly, expressed disappointment with the outcome, having confidently stated that he was in no danger of losing the CWI top job.

“I am very surprised, but I just like to say thanks to the region for the opportunity to serve West Indies cricket, it was a tremendous run. When we came into office, we found West Indies cricket in a state, and I think we now leave it in a better state, and we are very proud of those achievements,” Cameron shared.

The election proceedings were done under the watchful eyes of international audit firm, KPMG. Meanwhile, Skerritt, speaking with NICE Radio’s Let’s Talk Sport programme last Sunday night, openly stated that he will, as a first act as President, call on the West Indies panel of selectors to resign. (Part Source: Jamaica Observer)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 15.

People

Shallow ready to go

DR. KISHORE SHALLOW, President of the SVG Cricket Association Inc., is the new Vice President of Cricket West Indies.

He fills the post having been the running mate of Kittitian Ricky Skerritt who is now the new President.

The Skerrit-Shallow team defeated incumbents Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan, 8-4, when CWI held its Annual General Meeting and elections at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel last Sunday.

Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN on his return home, Dr. Shallow said, “This is indeed a proud and humble moment for me. I am filled with pride and enthusiasm to play my part in optimizing West Indies cricket.”

The new VP noted, “Caribbean cricket is at a critical juncture,… . The task ahead requires a monumental effort, but we have no

reservation that our ‘Cricket First’ policy is essential to steer West Indies cricket on a consistent path of success.”

Dr. Shallow cautioned that the Skerritt-Shallow ticket has a two-year tenure, and that this time might not allow for completion of all their plans.

He reminded cricket enthusiasts across the region, “Ricky and I will not have all the answers, so we are going to lean on other stakeholders and the general public as we move forward.”

With respect to going forward, he declared the preparation of the senior team to the ICC World Cup will be of immediate priority. “’We are hoping to win,” he quipped.

In addition, Dr. Shallow expects that increased investing in the grassroot/junior level of regional cricket and decentralizing the high

performance centers, will also come in for serious attention.

He admitted, though, that, “We have to first get an appreciation of the finances of Cricket West Indies … .”

In terms of sponsors, Dr. Shallow acknowledged that when the West Indies is winning, the corporate sector reaches out to CWI, “… so performance on the field is important to make our brand more attractive.”

He is confident that, given that West Indies cricket is a global brand, the new leadership can further increase its commercial value.

Shallow is grateful for the support here in SVG and across the region, and anticipates that with continuing support, the leadership of Skerritt and Shallow “can improve the state of West Indies cricket.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

Dr. Kishore Shallow, newly elected Vice President of CWI, is confident that he and newly elected President, Ricky Skerritt will set West Indies cricket on a path of improvement.

V Sion Hill Bay Project hit by legal wave 16. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Community/Arts

THE EFFORT MADE TO IMPROVE the aesthetics of Sion Hill Bay has been hit by a legal obstruct, that has caused a scaling down of some of the plans.

The effort, led by two members of the Sion Hill community- Osmond Davy and Leroy Llewellyn, was taking shape with the erection of picnic tables, stationary barbecue grills, and the general maintenance of the Sion Hill Bay area.

However, a letter from the solicitor of the owner of the land space that borders the Bay area, ordered the immediate removal of the structures that had already been placed.

In adherence, the structures were removed last Saturday and relocated to an area outside of the privately owned property.

Speaking on the matter,

Llewellyn said, “All we are doing is trying to enhance the area… We have no grouse, no dispute with the land owner.”

He noted that the reestablished boundary marks have left the general public with little beach area.

He underlined that the reduced land space, coupled with the continued erosion, have compounded their woes in their beautification efforts.

Sion Hill Bay, apart Leroy Llewellyn (left) assisting with from the regular sea picnic tables last Saturday. bathing, has been utilized over the years as that they will not be deterred. a venue for hosting social “We are going to continue events such as ‘Beach our plans to improve the Splashes’. area… We are still going Despite the new through with the plans to developments, Llewellyn said install a bathroom and toilet

Kenneth Robinson has ‘big’ plans for the area. closely with the relevant ministry to get their professional help in this regard,” Llewellyn added.

Meanwhile, Kenneth Robinson, a retiree, who also has an interest in developing parts of the beach front, is equally unfazed by the recent developments.

“I want to bring a new look to the beach, have some beach chairs, so when people come here they could sit, relax and the removal of one of the enjoy themselves,” Robinson outlined.

Robinson, who lives close to facility, and we are confident the Sion Hill Bay area, said that some agency will assist us that he simply started with a in this regard,” he related. thought of just beautifying a “We are also continuing our small section, before his ideas improvement of the area of the mangrove, and we are working mushroomed into new possibilities.

Film Festival wraps up tomorrow THE INAUGURAL HAIROUNA FILM FESTIVAL (HFF) is expected to end here this weekend.

And persons desirous of catching the final event of the week of screenings of local Aiko Roudette, Director of the HFF, delivering remarks on Opening Night, last Friday.

and Caribbean films, can do so tomorrow evening at the FlowT Beach Bar, at Ratho Mill.

The festival, the first of its kind to be staged here in St Vincent, got underway last Friday at the Calliaqua Playing Field, with the screening of ‘Black Doll’, a minifilm by local film maker Akley Olton.

The other two films showcased were ‘Flight’, made by Jamaican Kia

Moses and Adrian McDonald, and ‘The Bad Lucky Goat’ by Colombian film maker Samir Oliveros.

Director of the HFF, Aiko Roudette, in delivering opening remarks last Friday, said that stories are our life, memories and identity, “but we hardly ever get to see Caribbean stories shared on film.”

She noted that there was a wave of creativity

across the region; the community of Caribbean film makers was expanding; and the quality was improving and new festivals emerging.

Below: A section of the HFF crowd on opening night.

It was, therefore, the objective of the HFF to bring St Vincent and the Grenadines into this movement and to serve as a means to inspire and motivate local film makers.

The festival was organized in collaboration with a company known as Third Horizon, and Roudette explained that it was responsible for hosting a similar festival in Miami — where it is based — New York and Guyana.

They were also instrumental in sourcing some of the films showcased.

Screenings were mounted at various locations, beginning at Calliaqua and moving on to Redemption Sharpes, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, Barrouallie, Ratho Mill.

There was also a private screening to persons incarcerated at the Belle Isle Correctional Facility. (DD)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 17.

Training

Da Silva looking for other opportunities Kenroy Questelles of the National Qualification Department commended the Brewery for its initiative in attending to the training needs of its productive staff.

The training has equipped Da Silva with the “confidence to take on difficult tasks.”

For him, hard work is like a stairway. And having endured the rigours of duties, he is happy to revel in the view from the top.

He acknowledged feeling “a sense of worth”. For him, it was a productive course, and he was “grateful to be part Shem Da Silva – Top performer in the of this success story.”

But DaSilva is not planning to end 2018/19 Mechanical Maintenance for Brewing Industry (Training) Module 1. his journey. He is “looking for other opportunities.”

Whenever they come along, DaSilva SHEM DA SILVA is humble, quiet and will be ready. dedicated. He was the Best Overall Not only was he the overall Performer in a Mechanical Maintenance outstanding student, but Da Silva for Brewing Industry (Training) Module 1 was the Most Outstanding Student in which culminated with a passing out ceremony at Frenches House last Friday. the practical aspect as well, and added another award, that of ‘Best Final Da Silva from the Belair district, was the valedictorian on behalf of the Project Winner’ when he teamed up with Neil Woodley. class of 10, all employees of the St. Also on the award list was Teron Vincent Brewery.

Benjamin, Most Outstanding in ‘Depth He attributed his success to God. He and Breadth of Learning.’ found the course “informative”, and for The Class comprised: Rajiv Cuffy, him the result was “rewarding.”

Teron Benjamin, Clemroy Peters, The valedictorian admitted that it Junior Scott, Rayon Woods, Shem Da taught him the lesson of time Silva, Romando Maxwell, Dwayne management, for after the 8 to 4 Richards, Akeeno Woodley and Neil school session, he and his colleagues Woodley. had to adjust to working till 11 at This is the second year that times.

workers attached to the St. Vincent Brewery are getting training designed to enhance their productivity.

Friday’s ceremony heard a feature address by Kenroy Questelles of the National Qualification Department. He commended the Brewery, welcomed the initiative and contended that training was important in helping to fulfill customers’ satisfaction.

He was happy that the Brewery has started putting modules in place that blend into what happens at the work

The Graduating Class of 2018/19. place.

Questelles also praised the trainees for their effort in getting certification and noted that the training will be beneficial not just to the workers, but also the company and the population altogether.

“You are competent. People can rely on you for expertise,” Questelles told the graduates and urged them to use their knowledge to “help others in the company.” (WKA)

18. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29 , 2019. 19.

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20. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

No contact is a no-no Dear George, I HAVE a long distance relationship (telephone) with this girl for a year or so.

A friend gave me her phone number and we just started chatting on the phone from that time to now.

The last call I made to her made me very suspicious. During that call, I heard her breathing very heavily and making odd sounds, the kind of sound one would make when they are busy in the bedroom. I asked her if she was at the gym, and she said yes. I sent her a request to switch the call to video calling, but she said the video calling wasn’t working.

Every attempt to question her further made her very angry. She started shouting, and hung up the phone, after threatening to break off the relationship.

Her friend who introduced me to her said I should call her and apologize for suspecting her of wrongdoings. I do not agree. I prefer to let everything flop than to apologize. I need your opinion on this, George.

Doubtful evermore Dear Doubtful, Having someone as an intimate friend for a year without physical, face-to-face contact, is setting yourself up for a free fall. Interaction or faceto-face contact with someone allows you to observe the person`s mannerisms and to get to know what makes the person tick.

For trust to be properly established, a mere meeting by phone would not do it. If you are serious about this individual, I suggest you visit her in her environment on a regular basis, and arrange for her to do the same.

George

Give her your full support concerned about her. I know she has had her share of troubles: an A FRIEND of mine is always joking, telling me abusive boyfriend, a things like she wish she miscarriage, losing her job and owing 4 months was dead, and back rent. I have been instructing me to take doing my best to help care of her funeral her, but she is not one to arrangements, etc. She readily reach out for would make these help. statements and laugh, I want to know the leaving me to think she best way to help her out was joking.

Lately, I am beginning of the hole she is in. to wonder if she is Worried best friend. serious because of the look in her eyes when Dear Worried best she talks. Just last week, she gave me some friend, of her best clothes, and You have every right when I asked her why, to be concerned about she said she was your friend, and it shows changing her wardrobe. that you have been George, I am paying attention. Too

Dear George,

often, we miss the messages for help sent out by our distressed friends.

You need to encourage your friend to see a professional counsellor.

Let her know that you have heard her cry for help, and she can depend on you to see her through these dark days, and one of the ways you can help is to go with her to see a counsellor.

The most important thing now is to get her to talk and to know you are there for her no matter what. It is vital that she feels supported and know that you have her back at all times.

George

A perfect opportunity to cheat Dear George,

Dear Not buying it,

A YOUNG LADY recently resigned her position as a personal secretary because of sexual advances by her boss. I was surprised when my girlfriend informed me that she was going to apply for the same job.

My question to her was what would make her believe that the man, who is known for acts of sexual harassment, would not do the same thing to her, and she asserted that he would not dare mess with her.

As far as we know, this man is known to require his secretaries to work long hours. I am wondering if my girlfriend is seeing this as the perfect opportunity to cheat.

Your girlfriend is an adult, and she should be free to apply for whatever job she chooses. If you are having trust issues with her, then you need to rethink the relationship.

On the other hand, if both of you have established the ground rules that govern your relationship, then rather than getting worried about a manager, you will be better served to have and show confidence in your mate, showing her that you trust her enough to handle herself with dignity.

It will show maturity on your part, not to smother her but instead give her an opportunity to make decisions that are in her best interest and the interest of the relationship.

Not buying it George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Your involvement in groups will be favorable for meeting new and exciting individuals. Try to get out and socialize.

Don't make promises. Short trips will prove to be more fruitful than you imagined.

Taurus (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Don't believe everything you hear. Travel is evident, but be cautious while in transit. Be careful; you may say something you'll regret later. Try to keep a low profile.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) You will be popular with acquaintances; however, loved ones could feel left out and insecure. You can purchase items that will enhance your appearance. Plan your social events carefully. Encourage the youngsters in your family.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Try to spend time with those having similar interests. You'll have amazing ideas, but superiors may try to block your attempts at implementing them. Be sure to find out all you can before you commit to anything.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Don't let your mate stop you from attending an event that could be most important. Positive changes regarding your personal status are evident. Face any emotional problems head‐on to avoid situations getting out of hand.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) You can make changes that will enhance your appearance. You're likely to encounter new partners if you take short trips. Your time, not your cash, will do a lot more for your relationship. You will be viewed as a sensitive, compassionate individual and others will ask you for advice.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) You will be full of good ideas, and your choice of activities may bring you enrichment far beyond your expectations. Although it does look promising, be careful not to overextend yourself or you will lose in the long run.

Use your quick wit to win points with SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) You'll be angry if those you live with aren't pulling their weight. You may be experiencing emotional turmoil in regard to your mate. New romantic partners will evolve through group endeavors; however, the association may not be likely to last.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) Friends or groups that you're affiliated with may want you to contribute more cash than you can really afford. Get thinking about prolonging longevity.

Tempers could boil if someone you work with has not been pulling their weight.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) This is not the best day to visit relatives who get on your nerves. You might find added popularity with those around you this week. You can't do everything on your own. Romantic opportunities may not be as they appear.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) You may be frazzled this week. Uncertain changes regarding your personal life are evident. Creative pursuits should payoff.

Look after financial transactions this week.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) You will both have to bend if you want this union to work. Do not let lovers cost you money or take advantage of you.

Limitations will set in if you haven't followed the rules. You can ask for favors or run your ideas by those who will be able to support your objectives.

ACROSS 1. Cave dwellers 5. High‐calorie nutrients 9. _ Angeles 12. Positioned over 13. Landed after flight 14. King‐beating card 15. Actor Hackman 16. Nevada resort 17. Asian export 18. Receive (gifts) 20. Raven‐uttered remark 21. Enjoy bananas or beans 22. “Surely _ joking!”

24. Works for 26. Solemn fear 27. Insignificant person 31. Annoying critter 33. Handful of 34. Apiece 38. Newborn baby 41. Mr. Costello 42. Explorer Polo 45. Become accustomed 47. Resembling: 2 wds.

48. Wordsmith Gershwin 51. Garden plot 52. Decompose gradually 53. Peddle 55. Unspoiled spot 58. Common article 59. Convenience 60. Opera star 61. Feeling blue 62. Token opening 63. Twig‐breaking sound DOWN 1. Insect 2. Large primate 3. Languages 4. Evil smile 5. Remote 6. Talented Baldwin 7. Funny Fey

8. Packed (cargo) 9. Less punctual 10. Briny expanse 11. Reclining places 19. Six plus four 22. Bark sharply 23. Have debts 25. Scottish affirmation 28. Away 29. Humorous Arthur 30. Possess 32. Facial Contraction 35. “Arabian Nights” character 36. Precinct employee 37. Humble

shelter 39. Dins 40. Café bill 42. Trading centers 43. Oahu greeting 44. Classified (films)

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 21.

46. Heroic feats 49. Hardly fictitious 50. As well 54. Allow 56. Senora Peron 57. Brief rest

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22. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sport Feature

Sport against Crime: Focus on netball

by SEYMOUR ‘ROLLIT’ WALRON PEOPLE WHO create problems don’t care about the consequences, but yet want instant solutions.

Sport, which is already seen as a football to some, is now going to carry another burden. We don’t give the support and assistance (like time to prepare and play) needed to develop our sportsmen and women, so that they

would be able to compete and not merely participate with the rest of the world.

Yet, we learned that sports will have a new opponent named ‘crime’.

So what is the real purpose behind ‘Pan against Crime’ and now ‘Sport against Crime’?

Trinidad and Tobago has more sports people, more sports organizations and facilities, but has much more crime than we have. As of the 1st

March, 2019, fifty-one (51) murders were reported in Trinidad and Tobago.

How is sport, with all its shortcoming, going to defeat crime? Only those who have framed the ‘Sports against Crime’ agenda know.

When we all thought better days were coming, these architects of a new ‘economic slavery’ are well already with their plan to make the coming days filled with misery.

Association (SVGNA) later in 2019, is noteworthy.

The islands will compete I witnessed the opening for the ‘Gloria Ballantyne Trophy’. (At present Mrs. of the Masters Soccer Ballantyne is ill, and we Competition, and better are asked to pray for her was expected. The following day, I witnessed recovery soon.)

This Competition will the opening of the SVG also serve the Windward National Netball Championship. That was Islands in their rankings.

SVG presently sits in spectacular. position 24 in the world, The revival of the Windward Islands Netball and is sixth among Competition, to be hosted Caribbean nations.

The packed pavilion at by the SVG Netball the opening of the Netball Championship saw Shellie Davis, the MVP of Richland Park, showing why she is the best, and record-breaking goal scorer Skiddy FrancisCrick, giving the spectators a taste of what’s to come.

Netball open

More Division Sadly, instead of hearing teams being encouraged to elevate to being clubs, and instead of facilitating more competition among the existing teams/clubs, the SVGNA announced they will be introducing another competition called the Constituency Competition.

This will only encourage more division in the country rather than real development. The ones with dreams of increasing their political followers, will welcome this. But overall, it will cost more (e.g. uniforms, etc.); it will mean further bother of the same sponsors, and worst, it would feature unprepared teams in competition and with one intention — to win at all costs. This cannot develop the sport in any meaningful way.

Look first at what we have Teams have been playing year after year and their standard has not improved. So, why put ‘political teams’ together within a year? What standard are they going to acquire?

Having teams play each other more than twice will

develop better understanding and camaraderie, and help to improve team tactics and strategies.

The Premier Teams, which consist mostly of national players, play six or seven games per year.

Imagine seeing Mitres, Maple and X-Ceed facing each other more often that once or twice in a year.

They will be correcting their wrongs, changing their style or format, improving their weaknesses and strengths, improvising and introducing new, faster and effective methods aimed at outwitting their opponents. This is how the process of development should unfold. And think about what this means for increased patronage.

The administrators of sports Federations and Associations are elected to develop the standard of the sport they represent through developing their players, coaches and game officials.

They must be able to recognize what’s required and when to implement strategies for development. Timing is vital to the development process.

In netball, like other sports, umpires (game officials) are needed desperately, so too coaches. Why not ask the business sector to fund the attachment of experts to assist in this regard?

If there are no real signs of development before 2020, when the World Netball Tournament should be held in England, then the SVGNA will be planning only to participate not compete.

Change is inevitable; players will change with the times, as will the economic situation.

So, if the format that governs netball does not change, the players and spectators will disappear.

To all the players and everyone involved in the sport of netball, have an enjoyable season.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 23.

Stephanie Browne Primary: New Primary School Athletics Champions

points.

Jardon Peters of Lowmans Windward Anglican Stephanie did likewise Browne for the Boys Primary: in that age 2018/19 Primary group with School Athletics 18 points.

Champions.

The Girls the Meet’s Under 9 Victrix Ludorum. champion Jeremy Dick was Jonelia etched his name Alexander into the annals of Stephanie of Primary Browne School athletics Primary A Kingstown Preparatory School athlete here when he with 18 was named points, while accept the second place trophy from Victor Ludorum. the Under 9 Athony Dennie of the NLA. Boys title Record took the Girls Over 11 went to Jeremy Dick Breakers individual title with a from Windsor Primary commanding 36 points. with 35 points.

The Meet was not Arion Jackson of the St. Stephanie Browne Mary’s R.C. Primary took without some Primary provided both disturbance to the record Girls and Boys Under 11 the Boys Over 11 book, and Mitchran John individual title with 35 champions - Amelia of the Georgetown Age Category Champs points.

Alexander (20 points) At the end of the day, Government was and Romain Saxon (25 foremost among those Top individual as per tradition, two points) respectively. disturbing the performers included athletes stood head and Diarra Bascombe Tabia Arrington of South added to the Stephanie shoulders above the rest. equilibrium.

He dipped into the Rivers who took the Girls Browne Primary’s Diarro Bascombe made record book three times: Under 7 category medals cabinet when she her school even prouder in the Over 11 Boys 800 champion title with 14 when she was declared THE STEPHANIE BROWNE PRIMARY are the new champions of Primary Schools’ Track and Field in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The athletes from the Southern Grenadines island of Union IsIand captured the title at last Wednesday’s NLA Inter Primary Athletics Championships, held at the main Arnos Vale playing field.

Stephanie Browne Primary amassed 253 points on their way to dethroning last year’s champions - the Kingstown Preparatory School, who finished second on 206 points.

CW Prescod was third on 170 points, followed

by Questelles Government, 169, just ahead of Dubios Government School, 167.

Premier Division 50/50 gets going POLICE TWO BEAT GUARDIAN General Saints by 3 wickets in the opening match of the NLA Premier Division 50 Overs Competition at Sion Hill, last Sunday.

Guardian General Saints batted first and, unable to negotiate Cosnel Morris, 4 for 13 off 5 overs and Sylvan Spencer, 2 for 22 off 5 overs, managed only 94 off 27.2 overs. Jahel Walters contributed a top score of 19.

Police Two made heavy going of their reply, eventually getting to 97 for 7 off 21 overs, Kesrick Williams hitting 29 not out. Geron Wyllie grabbed 4 for 40 off 9 overs and Jeremy Haywood 3 for 35 off 9 overs.

First Division 50 overs

Despite a swashbuckling 98 and bowling returns of 3 wickets for 53 runs by Denson Hoyte, North Windward went under to Ruddy’s Electrical Unique Warriors, in a weekend match of the NLA Sunday League 50 Overs National First Division Cricket Competition, played at Stubbs.

Scores: North Windward 211 all out off 33.1 overs - Hoyte 98, Roger Gibson took 3 for 55, Jeffrey Reginald 2 for 30; Warriors 216 for 7 off 33.1 overs Leon Samuel 47, Michael Joseph 42 not out, Hoyte took 3 for 53 off 9 overs At Arnos Vale 2, Smashers continued their rich run of form when the defeated Combined Youths by 95 runs. Scores:

Smashers posted 270 off 38.2 overs, Deptor Culzac 71, Ronald Scott 31, Nickie Antoine 5 for 49 off 5 overs; Combined Youths 175 all out off 37.1 overs, O’Neil Endeavour 43, Donte Hinson 30, Rohan Ash 4 for 37 and Javid Harry 3 for 44.

SVGCA Inc. Woman T20 In the National SVGCA Inc. Women T20 Cricket Competition, JG Tigress and Sons beat United Survivors by 4 wickets, at the Arnos Vale 2 playing field, last Saturday. Scores: United Survivors 83 for 7 off 20 overs; JG Tigress and Sons 86 for 6 off 19.2 overs.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Diarra Bascombe - Victrix Ludorum – received her trophy from Minister of Education St. Clair Prince. meters when he clocked Off the actual track 2.19.0 to erase the and field, Questelles previous 2.29.13; in the Primary was adjudged to 300 meters in which he have had the best set a time of 41.61; and cheerleading team, with the 150 meters in which Calliaqua Anglican his 19.00 seconds second and St Mary’s dispensed with the R.C. School third. previous record of 19.16.

At total of 72 schools Other record breakers participated in the Meet. on the day were Jordan Peters of the Lowmans I.B.A.ALLEN Windward Anglican in the 4-6 Boys 80 meters dash. He clocked 13.42 seconds to better the previous of 13.84; Diarra Bascombe in the 80 meters dash for Girls Over 11 with a time of 10.88 seconds just eclipsing the old record of 10.89.

J’Aivar Cato of St Mary’s Catholic dominated the Boys Over 11 high jump and set a new record at 1.50 meters, Mitchran John of the beating the previous Georgetown Government record of 1.45 meters. set three new records.

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24. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

SVG set for Tier B in Nations League ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ Senior Men’s Football Team has made it through to the Tier B of the CONCACAF Nations League Tournament, which begins in September.

The draw for the next phase was slated for last Wednesday in Las Vegas Nevada, USA. St Vincent and the Grenadines is among fifteen other teams that made it through to Tier B, the others being El Salvador, Jamaica, Monserrat, Suriname, Dominica, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Belize, Dominican Republic, French Guiana, Nicaragua, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba and Grenada.

The Vincentians ended their qualifying round last Thursday at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, with a 2-1 win over Bonaire, to bring their tally of points to six and place them in 20th place among the 34 teams which were part of the play offs.

Cornelius Stewart led from in front and got the equalising goal for his team.

Qualifying round Last Thursday’s victory was due to goals from Cornelius Stewart in the 77th minute and Chavel

Chavel Cunningham continued his goalscoring form versus Bonaire last Thursday.

Stewart in the 79th.

This after SVG had gone behind in the 37th minute, when Juven Koffy breached their defence to skillfully register Bonaire’s goal.

It was the Vincentians’ second win in the qualifiers, in which they had an equal number of losses.

Their other win was 1-0 away triumph over French Guiana, with losses to Nicaragua and Turks and Caicos Islands, with score lines of 2-0 and 3-2, respectively.

Looking ahead Head Coach of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team- Kendale Mercury, while savouring the win against Bonaire, acknowledged that the next phase is what counts.

“The plan is to build for September…We will definitely be having some camps to see how we can best manage the players for Carnival especially as it is close to September ”, Mercury said, last Thursday at a post Match Review.

He noted that his charges will take

St Vincent and the Grenadines and Bonaire in action last week Thursday in the CONCACAF Nations League Qualifiers at the Arnos Vale Playing Field. a short break to return to their clubs currently engaged in the ongoing Premier Division of the National Club in Championships.

“We are going to bring them back to the national setup at least once per week, so that we can maintain what we are doing”, Mercury added.

Two international friendly matches are also on the card before September, Mercury disclosed.

Mercury took over the senior national team last December, and his team has been unbeaten in the five

Marriaqua Softball Cricket opens COMPETITION in the 2019 Valley Sports Committee Flow/ Carib Beer Marriaqua Softball Cricket Competition will be boosted by the addition of four teams.

This was disclosed last Sunday at the opening of the Competition at the Richland Park playing field.

President of Valley Sports Committee Giselle Peters, in addressing the gathering, said, “I was pleased with the representation of the teams. We went up by four teams, and I am very happy that our reputation is speaking

for us …. a lot of Nelson teams are willing Hillocks, to take part in our Director of competition.”

Physical She expects Education that the 2019 and Sports, Competition recognised would have the the increase same level of in competition and registration discipline as it did as a ‘good last year. thing’.

Nelson walk Hillocks, Director of away with $2,500.00, Physical Education and second place will take Sports, echoed similar sentiments with respect $1,500.00, third place $ 700.00 and fourth place $ to the registration.

“It speaks well for the 300.

The teams taking part Marriaqua Softball Cricket Competition and in the tournament are: its Committee,” he said. defending champions The winning team will Sion Hill Tallawah,

Teams taking part in the March Past that formed part of last Sunday’s opening.

Giselle Peters, President of the Valley Sports Committee, addressing last Sunday’s opening.

BOSVG All Stars, Fairban United, Clinchers, Smashers F.C, Hard Hitters, Gomea Bombers, Moznet Strikers, Country Meets Town Out Ah Trouble 1, TK Autobody and Paint Garage Challengers, Country Meets Town Out Ah Trouble 2, Extreme Strikers, Novice, Street Fighters, Simple Boys, RSVG Police Force, Ban Black Making and Trucking Fully Loaded, Adventist Youth, Downstreet Rivals, Dr. Thomas Injectors, Owia Strikers and Sopranos, Matches will be played on the weekends.

I.B.A.ALLEN

matches with him at the helm of the technical setup.

Before last Thursday’s win against Bonaire, SVG had played unbeaten in the five-territory 2019 Windward Islands Kendale Football Association Mercury- SVG ‘s (WIFA) Senior Men’s Tournament, Feb. Football Team 20 to Mar. 8.

Head Coach.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 25.

Sports

Skerritt and Shallow go deep THEY MIGHT have been dismissed as risky, or not going deep enough. That’s what Dave Cameron and his running mate Emmanuel Nathan might have thought. But the combination of Ricky Skerritt and Kishore Shallow are the new bosses of regional cricket. Their election came last Sunday in Kingston, Jamaica. The venue had been shifted from Antigua, supposedly to give Cameron home advantage.

The ballot was secret, but the results have been visible. What lies ahead is optimism, for changes in West Indies cricket have been an echo.

The Skerritt and Shallow victory comes as a breath of fresh air, for some people might have been led to think that West Indies cricket was someone’s personal domain.

Revelations leading up to the poll did not enhance the incumbent, and Skerritt might be credited with engineering a strategic campaign.

There might have been a tendency of selfdestruction by Cameron, and he had no thoughts of restraining excesses.

Cameron adopted an autocratic approach. Once the Boards went along, he might have been lulled into a sense of infallibility. The elections proved decisive.

If it were a general elections, one would have said: “the people have spoken.”

Political leaders must have greeted the outcome with elation. Cameron had distinguished himself as a cog in the regional integration drive. That turned Caribbean people inside out. For cricket has succeeded where politicians are still tinkering.

There is no question as to the impact and relevance of sports in the region. The reliance on tourism has a bearing on economic survival.

Politicians are aware of that.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines endured a balancing role in the recent throes of West Indies cricket. Our players have grafted their way into versions of regional outfits. What was disappointing was the absence of top level international games.

The excuse was that St. Vincent and the Grenadines did not have the capacity to accommodate heavy air lift. That issue has since been dealt with.

Shallow’s elevation ought to bring more recognition to the Vincentian Cricket Association.

Shallow played his cards in principled fashion over the years. He never displayed any hostility with Cameron in public.

Skerritt found an ideal choice in Shallow. They have the responsibility of fulfilling the expectations of the public. They can count on a honeymoon period, but with the World Cup hot on the tracks, that will be their first test of character.

There are still matters to be resolved at the regional level. A spirit of goodwill will accompany the new team, and players will be motivated. But patriotism and West Indies cricket are two interconnected entities.

Patriotism at the West Indies level can be shattered. We never know to what extent it has appeared in times of crisis. Cracks appear visible when things are bad. Good performances normally masks insularity.

The authorities have a duty of solidifying cricket. There is the opportunity of reviving the trends. The potential has been proven.

It is up to us to ride the tide and ensure that we put those measures in place so that a pattern of continuity exists and that our game is lifted, on and off the field.

B-Fit launches Second 5K Run & Walk THE B-FIT 5K RUN AND WALK and FLOW Dance for Fitness will be staged again this year.

At a formal launch of the event earlier this week at the National Sports Council conference room, Lindon Lames, founder of the BFit Movement, announced that the event will be held on April 27, and will have three components: a Health Exhibition from 1pm at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex; the B-Fit 5k, Run and Walk beginning at 2:30pm at the Blue Lagoon Hotel; and the FLOW Dance for Fitness at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex from 4.15pm.

James explained that this year’s event will focus “…on raising awareness of diabetes in children, under the theme ‘Unite for Diabetes’.”

Together with sponsors FLOW and Mountain Top Water, the organisers will work in close collaboration with the SVG Diabetes Association,, the Ministries of Health and Education, in getting its focus across.

“Our mandate is to promote healthy lifestyles through diet and

physical education, as we aim to prevent all non-communicable diseases,” James told the launch.

This year’s Run and Walk and Dance for Fitness is expcted to be boosted by the participation of 20 athletes from each secondary school here.

James was also grateful for the support as he was named the Caribbean’s Goodwill Ambassador. “Throughout the years, SVG has been rallying behind me and B-Fit movement and most recently during the campaign, for the wellness goodwill ambassador; our votes went up to eight thousand which I am very much thankful, and with the continuous encouragement and push with assistance from other,s I am grateful”.

Luke Browne, Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment, was on hand to lend support to the B-Fit effort.

“This event is connected to be a very important cause - juvenile diabetes, and to see how we could minimize the impact on our society,” Browne said, adding, the two weapons we have in our armory to combat of non-

Lindon James, founder and chief instructor of B-Fit giving details of this year’s event.

communicable diseases are physical activities and a proper diet, and I believe both of these are being promoted in the B-Fit Movement. I want to encourage all Vincentians to be fit and practise a healthy lifestyle.”

Dixton Findlay, Deputy Chief Education Officer in the Minister of Education, endorsed the event.

“Its important for our children to grow up in a healthy environment, and we need to be proactive and also encourage the teachers to work along with the kids.. and also encourage parents to prepare healthier meals, as the Ministry has taken the lead in preparing healthier meals through the schools feeding programmes,” Findlay said.

According to James, who was named a Caribbean Goodwill Ambassador last year, last year’s aim was to raise $5,000.00. This amount was exceeded when an amount of $15,000 was raised.

The intention is to “go past that figure, but we will need the support from the general public and other entities,” James said.

I.B.A.ALLEN Members of B-Fit Organizing Committee (from left) Neeka Anderson, Verbina Gonsalves, Lindon James, Natalie George and Joset Samuel.

Junior Squash players in National Trials THE NATIONAL Junior Squash Trials officially concluded last Saturday at the National Squash Centre, Paul’s Avenue.

Rashid Constance emerged as Division A champion. Constance registered three wins and suffered a single loss.

He defeated Nadira Morga, 11/3, 9/11, 11/4, 11/6, and outplayed Jayden George 11/9, 11/9, 14/12.

Constance also dumped Mikhail Quashie 11/3, 11/8, 11/5.

Joining Constance as other divisional winners were Ciara George and

Jose Bacchus.

George claimed the Division B title when she won all her matches.

She had a 12/10, 11/7, 11/7 triumph over Dru Samuel and whipped Roshawn Paul 11/2, 11/4, 11/2, and then swept past La Rika Jones, 11/3, 11/5, 11/2.

Bacchus claimed the Division C title when he beat Josiah Pierre 11/ 6, 11/2, 11/8, before getting tested against Laron From left to right: Rashid Constance, Ciara Jones, but prospered George, Jose Bacchus.

7/11, 11/8, 12/10, 11/8.

The trials were used Championships.

Championships from to select a training St Vincent and the 12th to 14th April, at the squad for the upcoming Grenadines will host the National Squash Centre OECS Junior OECS Junior at Paul’s Avenue.

26. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019. 27.

Court/Classifieds

Dishonest cashier to compensate Coreas NISHA FREDERICK, a 36-

Nisha Frederick

year-old cashier who stole $43,469 from Coreas Drinks Depot, Kingstown, between January 21 and March 3 this year, has been ordered to repay the money.

The Campden Park woman pleaded guilty when she was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday. She was unrepresented.

Frederick was ordered to compensate the Company by October 31, with an alternative of

two years in prison. She was also bonded for one year in the sum of $2,500. In breach, she would go to prison for one year.

Frederick is said to have relieved the Company of the cash while she was employed there as a cashier. (HH)

LESOY NOEL DAVY Sunday, 24th March, 2019 Mt Moriah S.D.A Church Prospect Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Interment: Brighton Cemetery

NOEL CASTELLO GEORGE BARBOUR Barrouallie S.D.A Church Sunday, 24th March, 2019 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, 23rd March, 2019 Lowmans Leeward New Testament Church Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

HENRY PHILLIPS RAWLSON KEMANI GEORGE New Testament Church of God, Wilson Hill Kingstown, St. Vincent.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

SELWYN ADOLPHUS CLARKE Bethel Gospel Assembly North Union Saturday, 23rd March, 2019 Service: 2:00 p.m

Friday, 22nd March, 2019 St. Paul Anglican Church Calliaqua Viewing: 2:00 p.m.

Service: 3:00 p.m.

Interment: Calliaqua Cemetery

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

F O R S A L E

FRIDAY,

MARCH 29, 2019

VOLUME 113, No.13

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SPECIAL OLYMPIANS RETURN WITH MEDAL BOUNTY THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES team to the Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, returned home last Monday night, with added load, as many of the athletes had the extra weight of the medals gained.

St Vincent and the Grenadines gathered seven gold medals, six silver and four bronze.

Five of the gold medals were attained in Track and Field. Adrian Cummings won his 100m, with Aneisha Sutherland and Tara Lewis both claiming gold in their 100m and 200m events.

Meanwhile, the pair of Logie and Unica Smith won gold in the doubles Bocce, and the quartet of Krista Bynoe, Walsh Ollivierre, Jason Williams and Racquel Miller, took gold in Swimming’s 4 x 400metres.

The six silver medals were accounted for by tennis - 2, while Seven-A- Side Football, Track and Field, Bocce and Swimming counted one each.

The bronze medals came from Track and Field, Bocce, Tennis and Swimming.

Additionally, St Vincent and the Grenadines got 8 ribbons, by virtue of having five fourth places, two sixth places and a seventh place.

attained by St Vincent and the Grenadines at the World Games.

“All of the teams that have travelled in the past and this team, it is the most medals that we have brought back individually …As a coach, as a family member, as a friend, what more can we ask for,” Davis said.

Davis, who was also the coach of the Bocce team, related: “I have been to the World Games before as an athlete… I have gone as a coach… The athletes have surpassed what they Best Individual count ever would have done (before).”

He revealed that the athletes gave Assessing the team’s performance, their all, even in adverse Terrance Davis, Sports Director of Special Olympics SVG, said that it was circumstances.

“It was just wonderful to see how the best individual medal count

Part of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Special Olympics contingent, on return last Monday night at the Argyle International Airport. well they did… There were sometimes they were feeling sick , ….. even when they were sick , they still ran, they still swam , they did all what they needed to do, because they remembered it was St Vincent and the Grenadines first, family second and myself last,” Davis related.

“It was very important for us to travel that far and to do well as we did … It was St Vincent and the Grenadines… it was you who helped us, and we could only try and do our best to make you proud …I thank you St Vincent and the Grenadines,” Davis said with gratitude.

Also addressing last Monday’s Welcoming Ceremony were Special Olympics SVG’s National Director- Sezevra Joseph and Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture Hon. Cecil Mc Kie. Several individuals and business entities here and Vincentian groups in the Diaspora, as well as the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines, all Site seeing for Team SVG while in Abu Dhabi for the 2019 Special Olympics World Games. (FB Photo)

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

Terrance Davis, Sports Director of Special Olympics SVG, addressing last Monday’s Welcoming Ceremony. assisted in getting the team to the World Games.

Significantly, it was this country’s Prime Minister- Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who was instrumental in getting Dubai Cares to fully fund the airfares and accommodation of the St Vincent and the Grenadines team.

Twenty- five athletes and twelve officials comprised the local contingent to the World Games.

The next edition of the World Games is set for Germany in 2023.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.