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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 30, 2018

VOLUME 112, No.42

www.thevincentian.com

EC$1.50

A ‘Septic Truck’ at the school on Tuesday.

TEACHERSÊ WOES!!!!

2018. A sewerage truck is currently on the compound of the school emptying the septic tank while school is in session.”

Roberts also alluded to the “unbearable scent emanating from the truck, along with Minister of Education the loud sound of the St. Clair Prince wasted no suction device has time in describing the interfered with the Teachers Union’s action teaching and learning as “premature.” process at the school.” sacrifice the health of Roberts highlighted students, its members While classes had not yet begun, the atmosphere at that “members of staff and any other occupant the school seemed normal when THE VINCENTIAN are very uncomfortable of that building.” visited early Wednesday morning. with this situation” The PRO Roberts because “students have concluded by

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ with immediate effect been using the one staff encouraging parents to ANTHONY due to deplorable toilet that is working.” “keep their children at working conditions.”

“The situation gravely home until the situation THE LOWMANS LEEWARD That was last Tuesday. affects the teaching and has been “ Anglican School, home to SVGTU Public learning process, as well THE VINCENTIAN a population of some 400 Relations Officer (PRO) - as the psychological wellvisited the school on students, has become Johnathan Roberts being of students and Wednesday morning. embroiled in a clash of stated in a release dated teachers at the school,” Students and teachers differing perspectives.

Nov. 27, that “all the Roberts outlined. were on the compound The SVG Teachers toilets that serve the He underscored that but classes had not yet Union (SVGTU) advised students have not been the Teachers Union, commenced. teachers at that school to able to flush since “takes it’s responsibility “withdraw their services, Monday 26, November seriously and will not Continued on Page 3.

Bishop Melford Pompey has been a strong and consistent advocate on behalfof Spiritual Baptists here.

Pompey elevated to Archbishop THE SPIRITUAL BAPTIST ARCHDIOCESE of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines now has a new Archbishop.

The Rt. Rev. Melford Pompey received the nod on Saturday 17th November 2018 to fill the position left vacant after the death of the former Archbishop Frank Simon.

Archbishop Simon and Laverne Pompey-Young died in a vehicular accident at Gordon Yard, while on their with other pilgrims to a church service in Chateaubelair.

The 56-year-old Pompey, who heads the St Mary’s Spiritual Baptist Cathedral, Overland, is following in the footsteps of his father - Blessed Cosmore Mathias Pompey - who served as Archbishop and Supreme Head of the Spiritual Baptiste Archdiocese of SVG, from 1985-2010.

It is the first time a son has followed his father into occupying a leading position in local Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese, and, as per a comment from a Spiritual Baptist, “Bishop Melford was destined to become a leader of our faith.”

The Rt. Rev. Melford Pompey becomes the 5th Archbishop to be elected.

A teacher by profession and a well-known and respected member of the Spiritual Baptist fraternity both here and abroad, it was no surprise, said a release from the Spiritual Baptist.

Archdiocese, that congratulatory remarks pour in for the new Archbishop from relatives, friends and the Spiritual Baptist fraternity in St. Vincent, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad and the United States of America.

The Archbishop elect will first be presented to the Archdiocesan Synod before his enthronement, a date for which will be set by Archdiocesan Council when they meet in December.

THE VINCENTIAN congratulates Rt. Rev. Melford Pompey on his elevation and wishes him God’s richest blessings as he undertakes this new responsibility.

2. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 Another letdown for NDP

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 3.

Right: The Dec 3 – 7 period set for the hearing of the Election Petitions could well be set aside given the unavailability of Graham Bollers.

Election Petitions. application for disclosure of documents Justice Esco Henry, on Tuesday, in the election petition cases. dismissed for the second time, a renewed Justice Brian Cottle had also made a similar ruling an an earlier similar application.

The NDP had requested of the court that it allows the inspection of ballot boxes.

On Tuesday, Justice Henry also disapproved a request for specific disclosure of certain election documents.

The NDP contends, through two

by HAYDN HUGGINS unit, and promised to Elections Petitions before the court, that continue in that vein. there were gross irregularities as per the NEWLY APPOINTED The MCU Chief was conduct of the December 2015 general Head of the Major Crime speaking to reporters at elections in the Central Leeward and Unit (MCU)- Inspector the Unit’s Office in the North Windward constituencies.

Elgin Richards intends to Central Police Station on In support of its claim, they continue along the path Tuesday. attempted to have the NDP the court set by those who preceded Inspector Elgin “I am pleased to be rule that the ballot boxes in both him as head, since the here as head of the MCU”, Richards now heads the constituencies be open for inspection, but Unit’s formation in 2003. he declared proudly.

MCU. had failed to win that approval on each And he thinks that his “There are always He was also attached to attempt.

28 years’ experience in the challenges as to the way Last Tuesday, the court also ruled the Deputy local constabulary, we do things in the fight that on December 3, the date given for Commissioner’s Office in including his tenure as a against crime,” he an administrative capacity continuance of the hearing on the prosecutor, will serve him admitted, but assured, “I petitions, it will hear a submission from before moving to the well in facing up to the will continue the task of Prosecutorial Department, Attorney Carlos James, representing critical task ahead. ensuring that the where he worked for a Richards took up duties mandate of the Police number of years. as MCU chief on Tuesday Force, and the He was among a team replacing Inspector Atland Department is met, as we of police prosecutors who Browne, who is now in continue to work as a were seconded to the charge of the Barrouallie team going forward. We Office of the Director of Police Station, the all want to work in the position Richards held interest of St. Vincent and Public Prosecutions (DPP) DO NOT EXPECT the Dr. Ralph Gonsalves prior to his new the Grenadines in the best about two years ago, in a led Unity Labour Party government of St. move to have all appointment which took way we can”.

Vincent and the Grenadines to move to prosecutors housed in the effect from November 22.

Richards served at a decriminalize the use/possession of small same building, thus Richards highlighted number of outstations, quantities of cannabis. making it easier for them what he described as “the and was attached to the Prime Minister Gonsalves made this to be supervised on a day very good job” done by Criminal Investigation clear while addressing a meeting of a to day basis, by the DPP. Inspector Browne during Department (CID) from Select Committee of Parliament which Richards’ last his tenure as head of the 2003 to 2005. was tasked with further examining and prosecutorial stint was at soliciting input for amendments of three the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, before Bills: the Medicinal Cannabis Industry Act, the Cannabis Cultivation (Amnesty) being transferred to head Bill, and the Permitted Use of Cannabis the Barrouallie Police Continued from Front Page. for Religious Purpose Bill.

Station.

What Dr. Gonslaves assured was that The MCU is a unit of compound but classes had not yet commenced. the Criminal Investigation his government was prepared to amend The Principal did not wish to be identified, but she Department (CID) and the Drugs Act so that there will be no informed that BRAGSA had repaired the toilet on jail time, there will only be a fine for therefore falls under the Tuesday afternoon. She disclosed that a child had possession of small quantities of command of CID Chief, thrown a bottle in the toilet, and she blamed some cannabis. These quantities will be Assistant Superintendent (news) outlets for getting the story wrong. determined in due course. of Police Hesron Minister of Education Jimmy Prince, weighing in Amendments would also have to be Ballantyne. on the matter, outlined that BRAGSA “came made to the Rehabilitation of Criminal The first police officer promptly” and that the toilet was “cleared.”

Offenders Act, so as to allow for the fines to head the MCU was Prince accused the Teachers Union of being “too to be collected through a civil process, Sydney James, retired quick to abandon school for every little thing.” but the PM repeated that there will be Assistant Superintendent A former Head of the Agency for Public no change to the offence being a criminal of Police, who held the Information, Prince described the action of the rank of Corporal when the one.

Teachers Union as “premature,” and further labelled Past offences related to smaller Unit was formed in 2003. their behaviour as “irresponsible.” quantities can be expected to be erased,

THE OPPOSITION New Democratic Party (NDP) had another one of its applications turned down, in its ongoing matter of two

Former Prosecutor now MCU chief

defendants Sir Louis Straker and Montgomery Daniel, that the trial days of December 3 — 7 be vacated, given the unavailability of lead counsel — Graham Bollers, who is on medical leave.

Should that submission be granted, then it is likely that hearing of the petitions will be advanced to the New Year.

Sources say that Bollers has been granted 30 calendar days medical leave, effective from November 23, 2018.

No jail time but …..

Teachers’ woes!!!!

Dr. Ralph Gonsalves will have nothing to do with decriminalizing the use/possession of small quantities of cannabis. once the Parliament passes the amendments as proposed.

In support of his government’s proposed action, Prime Minister Gonsalves referenced Canada and Jamaica, countries that have decriminalised the possession of small quantities of cannabis, as now facing serious questions with respect to their compliance to International Narcotic Treaties which they have signed.

V ÂJay JayÊ charged with robbing College Dean 4. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Tuesday, aa the Serious Offences Court was not sitting, but he was not TWENTY-TWO-YEAR-OLD Jerroy ‘Jay Jay’ required to plea to the indictable Phillips has been charged with robbing charge.

Osborne Bowens, Dean of the Division of Prosecutor Curlene Samuel objected Technical and Vocational Education, of a to bail stating that the firearm loaded gun, among other items. allegedly stolen was not retrieved, and The Redemption Sharpes fisherman if the accused was granted bail at this is accused of using a gun to rob stage, the investigations could be Bowens of a black Glock 9mm pistol hindered. She also noted that Phillips and 15 rounds of ammunition, along has other matters before the Serious with a cellular phone valued EC$2,000 Offences Court. and a wallet valued EC$150, She asked that Phillips be containing EC$80 in cash. remanded, and the matter be The incident is alleged to have transferred to the Serious Offences occurred at the Indian Bay beach on Court.

November 1, 2018.

Phillips requested an identification Phillips was taken before Senior parade, but the Senior Magistrate Magistrate Rickie Burnett at the informed him that was not an issue for Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on the Court.

When he appeared at the Serious allegedly offences Court on Wednesday Senior committed at Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche told McKie’s Hill Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne against McKie’s Jerroy ‘Jay that the accused had a series of Hill resident Antonio Jay’ Phillips matters of a similar nature pending.

Baptiste, October 27. sees the list of The Prosecutor pointed out that bail He is also said to be a charges was open to him in one of those, and person of interest to against him he was now objecting to bail in the the police in capital increasing matter involving Bowens. offences. steadily.

Browne upheld the Prosecutor’s objection and further remanded Phillips. He will return to Court next Wednesday.

Phillips’ matters before the Serious ASHIEKA LYTTLE, 25, a Offences Court include resident of New Montrose, robbery and kidnapping whose run-in with the law here on Saturday 11th August this year had gone viral (via social media), walked freely out of the Court on Monday where she had gone to answer ATTORNEY Ashelle Monday; Morgan entered the Office of the Director honourable Court to to three charges.

Morgan seemed to have a mitigation plea and the of Public Prosecutions proceed with the Lyttle, on August 13, had been taken by surprise matter was adjourned to (DPP) had applied for an sentencing”, Morgan pleaded not guilty before on Wednesday, claiming Tuesday for sentencing. adjournment of the insisted.

Senior Magistrate Rickie she was “ambushed” However, the Serious confiscation proceedings, “This application is Burnett to: using indecent when she heard that the Offences Court did not as well as the sentencing not even supported by an language to PC Delroy Ashieka Lyttle Court was served notice sit on Tuesday, and hearing in the affidavit. They are not Williams, assaulting PC of an application for therefore, sentencing was substantive matter, ready,” the lawyer Williams, and resisting arrest. had the charges confiscation proceedings expected to be done when pending the outcome of continued.

Bail of EC$3,000 that Lyttle against her withdrawn. against her client, the Court resumed on an investigation to be The Chief Magistrate, had secured at the Central Police Station when she was Fitzgerald Rose.

Wednesday. carried out by the however, contended that charged, was continued.

The 38-year-old Mt. However, when the Financial Intelligence “If the FIU is involved, I When she appeared before the said Magistrate Grenan man had pleaded matter was called on Unit (FIU). can see the linkage at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court last Monday, guilty on Monday to Wednesday, Chief But Morgan objected between the sentencing Prosecutor Constable Corlene Samuel told the possession of 213 grams Magistrate Rechanne to the postponement of and the confiscation court that the State was not proceeding on the of cocaine with intent to Browne informed the the sentencing hearing hearing.” matter. supply, and possession of lawyer that she was arguing, “I don’t know Browne granted the Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett did as he was the drug for the purpose served notice of an how that would be adjournments and fixed expected to do: he told Lyttle that she was free to of drug trafficking. application for affected by the bail for the defendant in go.

The drug was found confiscation proceeding. confiscation the sum of $30,000, on The charges against her arose from the incident during a search of a Morgan described the proceedings.” condition that he that was posted on social media. That posting vehicle driven by Rose situation as an “ambush” The lawyer said the surrenders his travel showed a police officer manhandling a woman, which was stopped by a as she was taken by prosecution was not documents and report to holding a baby, as he took her in the direction of party of police officers at surprise. ready, and she did not his nearest police station the Central Police Station in Kingstown.

Mesopotamia, November Senior Prosecutor see why her client should three times per week.

The incident is said to have erupted at the 24.

Adolphus Delpleche then be subjected to this.

Stop notices will also Frisko Ice Cream Parlour, Bay Street, where The facts were read on informed the Court that “I am asking this be placed at all ports of Lyttle had accused PC Williams of jumping the exit, and he is not to queue. leave the state without An argument ensued between the two, resulting the expressed permission with PC Williams, in his judgement that the of the Serious Offences woman had committed an offence, resorting to THE PRELIMINARY INQUIRY into bail on the charge of murdering the taking hold of Lyttle and marching her to the the stabbing death of 48-year-old Security Guard, who resided at Rillan Court or a higher Court.

The confiscation Central Police Station, with her 2-year-old child in Security Guard Brenda Layne has Hill/Chauncey. hearing is set for her arms.

Reports are that Layne was been put on hold, pending the results January 17. attacked and stabbed in her neck of a psychiatric evaluation of the around 6:45 a.m. August 22 at Lower accused - Kesean Bay Street, Kingstown, as she sought Caine. transportation to go home after When the matter working the night shift at the St. came up on Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC) Wednesday, the A MAN CHARGED with murder in witnesses were called. headquarters, Paul’s Avenue.

Serious Offences connection with a shooting incident at When contacted later, Senior Layne was taken to the Milton Cato Court heard that the Rose Place, Kingstown, since August 6, Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche told Memorial Hospital where she High Court had 2016, was discharged at the Serious THE VINCENTIAN that all the main succumbed to the injury. ordered the Offences Court on Wednesday, after witnesses in the matter were not Caine had fled the scene following psychiatric Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne located to be summoned. the incident, but was apprehended evaluation during the concluded that there was insufficient He noted that the murder was later that day at Colonarie, and hearing of an evidence for him to stand trial. committed August 6, 2016, but the subsequently charged. application for bail “You are discharged, you are free to accused was not charged until May 7 Bail is not usually granted in cases by the accused. of murder, except in exceptional go,” Browne told Tevin Bobb, who was this year.

Interestingly, the circumstances. charged with the murder of Alphanzo Davy was reportedly shot several Caine was recently committed to Kesean Caine 19-year-old Davy of New Montrose. times during an incident in Rose Diamonds Village stand trial in the High Court on a – to have a The Magistrate’s decision came at Place, close to the Milton Cato man had applied to charge of attempted murder, in psychiatric the close of the Prosecution’s case at Memorial Hospital. the High Court for connection with another incident examination. the Preliminary Inquiry. Nine Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS

Charges in ice cream matter withdrawn

Lawyer says she was ambushed

Murder accused sent for evaluation

Man cleared of 2016 murder

V Lord SuperiorGone at 80 Regional

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO, for the third time in less than a month, was racked by the passing of one of its cultural icon.

Dr Andrew Marcano, known in the calypso world as ‘Lord Superior’ or more familiarly as ‘Supie’, died on Saturday 24th November 2018, in New York. He died just one month shy of his 81st birthday.

His son, Moriba Marcano, announced his father’s death on his Facebook page, and confirmed that his father, who had been battling illness for some time, was confined at New York’s Mt Sinai Hospital for the past couple months.

His death follows closely on those of calypsonians Shadow and De Fosto.

Dr Andrew ‘Lord Superior’ Marcano was born in Rio Claro, Trinidad and Tobago in 1937. He made his debut into calypso at the age of 16, at the Victory Calypso Tent in Port of Spain, doing a number entitled ‘Coconut’. At the time, he was considered the youngest calypsonian to have performed locally.

That marked the beginning of a career that would transcend six decades during which he wrote and performed a string of memorable calypsos including: ‘Spread Joy’, ‘San Fernando Carnival’, ‘Saga T’ing’, ‘We want a day’, ‘Standardise Pan’, ‘Cultural Assassination’, and ‘Put the women on top’.

But it was his 1957 composition ‘Brass Crown’ which went down in his country’s history as being one of the most significantly impacting calypsos of all time.

The song initiated the protest against the producers of the Calypso King and Carnival Queen competitions of the day, for paying the King a meager $40 while the Carnival Queen, reserved for white girls, received far more expensive prizes.

The song helped in no

small way to turn the organization and management of carnival in Trinidad and Tobago on its head.

By 1958, the Calypso King was getting $600.

Renowned Trinidadian culture/entertainment journalist/writer Peter Blood, records in an interview with ‘Supie’ in 2014’ that was carried by the Trinidad Guardian, a number of other ‘firsts’ accomplished by the calypsonian: * the first calypsonian to produce a record on his own record label La Carib, in 1959; * the first calypsonian to perform in Madison Square Garden, USA, 1968; * first to start the country’s first year-round calypso tent, in 1976; * first calypsonian to produce a full-length calypso musical Calypsical–in 1985, at Little Carib Theatre; * first calypsonian to perform in a Catholic church - the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception accompanied by Valley Harps Steel Orchestra — 1985.

He was also instrumental in launching the careers of a number of calypsonians for whom he composed and offered advice on how to navigate the competitive world of ‘kaiso’.

‘Supie’ was awarded his country’s Hummingbird Medal Silver in 2015, and in recognition of his voluminous collection of work and the influence he had on a number of calypsonians and calypso in general, he received his Honorary Doctor of Letters at the 2017 graduation ceremony at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad.

But six decades ago, when he began singing calypso, Trinidad and Tobago was still very much a stratified (class) society, and he encountered signs posted in various establishments debarring him from entering. The

Right: Dr Andrew ‘Lord Superior’ Marcano cut a dapper figure from his youth (right) to his more senior years. (Photo Credit: TUCO) signs read: No Dogs and Calypsonians Allowed.

This led his first wife Dr Janet Stanley Marcano - to coin the phrase ‘From Dog to Doctorate’ when she paid tribute to him at a function to celebrate his 80th birthday.

It was she who described ‘Supie’, fittingly so, as a “gentleman, scholar, perfectionist, idealist and a man who always knew what he wanted”, not to mention that he was known for always being impeccably dressed.

And even as he wrote and performed regularly through the years, he assumed the battle, at times singlehandedly, to advocate that there should be more calypso played on local radio stations.

This conviction led him to apply for a radio licence, but there would be a period of twenty years before he was granted his request.

“He called his station ‘Superior Radio — 94.1FM’ and, true to his mission, it played calypso music twenty-four hours each day.

The station is today the urban station known as Boom Champions.

In 2012, ‘Supie’ was invited by US President Barack Obama to be a guest at the Commanderin-Chief Ball, New York.

This, as Peter Blood said, was perhaps in recognition of his 2008 composition ‘Black Coffee’, in which he projected the election of a black president in the USA ‘Supie’ may never have won a National Calypso Monarch title in his home land, but he is regarded by many as one of the platinum figures in the development of the calypso art form across the globe. (Sources: Trinidad Newsday.

Guardian, Loop News)

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 , 2018. 5.

V

6. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

WTO commends young Vincentian trade professional and Cuthbert ‘Mr. Cool’ James, coordinator of the local Peace Corps, Inc. Azevédo said that the young professionals have established “good DIRECTOR-GENERAL of the examples for this World Trade Organization initiative to keep moving (WTO), Roberto Azevédo, forward.” has commended a young The 15 participants in Vincentian trade the 2018 Young professional among the Professionals Program 2018 cohort for the said they will carry the group’s excellent work, knowledge and skills during their one-year gained at the WTO placement at the Geneva, throughout their future Switzerland-based careers as trade policy organization. practitioners.

Azevédo lauded Deah Besides St. Vincent James — an and the Grenadines, administrative cadet in Antigua and Barbuda the Ministry of Foreign was the other Caribbean Affairs, Trade and country represented in Commerce in St. Vincent the WTO 2018 cohort. and the Grenadines — The other countries and the other cohort represented were participants during his Armenia, Cameroon, address last Thursday.

Georgia, Indonesia, Ivory James is the daughter Coast, Kazakhstan, of Supervisor of Elections Madagascar, Mongolia, Dora Thompson-James Panama, Paraguay and

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.c om US CORRESPONENT

Togo.

The WTO said the young professionals — who were chosen from more than 1,500 candidates following a competitive selection process — spent their 12 months at the WTO Secretariat developing their knowledge, skills and experience, and learning about the organization’s work and activities.

This is the second year for the Young Professionals Program following the inaugural program in 2017.

Azevédo said the program was launched with the objectives of enhancing knowledge of WTO issues among young professionals from developing and leastdeveloped members, and widening the pool of qualified applicants for future recruitment at the

Young Vincentian trade professional Deah James receives certificate from Director-General of the WTO, Roberto Azevédo.

WTO, with a special focus on those members that are not currently represented at the professional level in the Secretariat.

Speaking on behalf of the group, James said it was “a privilege” working at the WTO for the past year.

“And I appreciated the experience accumulated through the interaction with colleagues in the division,” she said. “All WTO colleagues have been so welcoming and helpful.

“I learned the expertise that’s most in demand, for which I am very grateful,” James added. “I believe that we are leaving the WTO with knowledge and skills that will be useful for our future careers.”

She subsequently told THE VINCENTIAN, in an exclusive interview, that: “As a budding trade policy analyst, it is a dream to work at an international organization, especially the WTO. “So, the opportunity

was a dream come through,” she said. “It was great to see the discussions, as they happened in real time, between members on trade issues, especially now with the throwing trade tensions.

“My division was welcoming and facilitating to growth by exposing me through numerous opportunities,” James added. “I was trusted to attend expert level meetings and treated like staff.”

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 , 2018. 7.

Education

Stubbs gets Nine Morning boost THE VILLAGE of Stubbs on the South Windward coast of mainland St. Vincent is one of the nation’s most valuable cradles in terms of maintaining traditional values.

They stand out in their delivery of their Nine Mornings activities, and have been Andrew John, recognised for proud Principal their creative of the Stubbs celebrations.

Primary School, That might said that they be attributed to start training the community their spirit. And the representatives instinct is from Grade 5. instilled from early. Two Stubbs Primary School students added to the verve of celebratory activity for their region when they copped this year’s Kingstown Cooperative Credit Union Primary School Quiz. Desvorne John and Kate Lynn-Bobb outpointed rivals from five other institutions, to take the title.

The pair earned some money, other supplies, and trophies, but the school also gained $2,000 to be spent on projects there. Students were tested in areas like local history, credit union

Second placed C.W. Prescod Primary School was represented by (l-r) Alando Bobb and Rayanna Pierre.

(L-r): Javid Clarke and Devonte Da Breo took third place for the Lauders Primary School.

The winning pair of (l-r) Kaye-Lynn Bobb and Desvorne John of the Stubbs Primary School. matters. sports, spelling and general knowledge.

Stubbs’ principal Andrew John appeared at the Rueben John Development Centre after his students had sealed the deal. He explained that he was updated on the competition.

He was delighted that his school retained the championship. John paid tribute to his students for their performance. He admitted that they have an internal competition in the run up to the showdown.

“We target them early,” John indicated. “We start training them from Grade five.”

Stubbs has a student population of 204. John has been a teacher for 36 years, and confessed that he has been preparing students “for years.”

He recounted stints at the New Grounds Primary and Biabou where his charges achieved success.

The situation seemed tailor made for Stubbs. Students from that school performed a cultural item before the Quiz, and the contingent remained as a solidarity gesture during the exercise. When the results were announced, they burst into the Glenroy ‘Sulle’ Caesar’s composition ‘Only Nine Mornings’ as a prelude to the unleashing of the unique Vincentian tradition.

The Stubbs pair amassed 34 points.

C.W. Prescod Primary School placed second on 24 points. That school was represented by Rayanna Pierre and Alando Bobb.

Lauders Primary took third spot on 21 points, from their male team: Javid Clarke and Devonte Da Breo.

The Kingstown Preparatory School’s Taj Cain and Seante Marshall placed fourth. Fifth position went to the Belair Government represented by Joshua Prescott and Akeem Gaymes.

The other finalist was Clare Valley Government’s Phena Bowens and Amanda Harry. (WKA)

V

8. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

The cannabis debacle: Six of one...

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is on the brink of legalizing cannabis for medical purposes.

We are so confident of carving out a place for ourselves in this global billion-dollar industry, we have wasted little time inviting foreign investors to come and take advantage of our head start: a long history of cannabis propagation and cultivation (which it seems we have only just embraced as a positive); rich and abundantly fertile soil (as though it wasn’t there from time immemorial); easy access to trans-Atlantic transportation,(one of the blessings we are told, of the Argyle International Airport), etc.

But even as we march into this new galaxy of ‘milk and honey’, and with every hope that a new dawn awaits us, we have to admit how funny it is that we only recently awoke to the reality that we had been blessed with a plant that possessed untold benefits and had adorned carefully quarter hillside lands prepared specifically for its cultivation, and even well-manicured often overlooked suburban gardens.

Instead of awakening to this reality, we spent millions of our scarce resources destroying the plant and the lives of those who cultivated it. In the meantime, the strategically positioned, home and abroad, found creative ways to benefit from it.

So, even as we waged war, the industry grew and Caribbean countries benefited in immense economic terms. It became the economy within the economy and, in the case of many Caribbean countries, was the difference between abject poverty and advanced living standard.

Why in Zeus’ name could the region not come to a collective acceptance that its cannabis industry was a sound enough basis on which to lead a regional, hemispheric even international crusade for the legalization of the plant, and moreso for the legalization of cannabis for use in scientific research?

We have, down the years, attempted to lead in other areas; a single state, in more recent times, has chosen to lobby for a seat on the UN’s Security Council. But never, it appeared, did we think that we could have influenced international protocol

by taking the lead, so many decades ago, on the issue of leglisation of cannabis.

In this sense, we demonstrated for the world to see, a clear absence of political will.

But back to the issue at hand: The cause for the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes is intricately, almost organically linked to the legalization, for that matter the decriminalistion of cannabis for recreational purposes.

Many countries have discovered not to do one without the other is problematic; it creates a new dichotomy — those who have the permission so to do on one hand, and on the other, those who don’t, many in the latter grouping being those with longer histories of attachment to the herb.

To play with what is nothing short of an impartial sharing of the spoils, to legalise on the one hand and not on the other, is to continue to accommodate and even further entrench a class of criminals.

The Prohibition in the 1920s — 30s in the USA eventually proved to be one of the biggest mistakes in its modern history. It had something to do with the fact that the Prohibition banned the production, transportation and sale of alcohol, but not consuming it.

Ours may be a case of the reverse, in that we legalise the production, transporting and sale of cannabis, but continue to ban its consumption for recreational and social purposes.

Six of one and half a dozen of the other!!!

When the Yanks saw how the Prohibition bred crime and organized crime in the USA, they abolished it.

Are we to make the mistake of creating a new monster and then attempting to kill it.

We should learn from the Yanks’ experience. Yes, the economic potential and the state’s positioning to reap the benefits of becoming a major player in the medical cannabis industry is foretold and almost assured.

The value of legalisation across the board, lies not only in cutting out the criminal element, but in being able to control the quality of the product that people consume, which is the duty of the state.

What’s in a name?

First published 26/10/1984 (continued from last week)

Symbols of Independence

A Name as a Label

A Balanced Approach

After all, one of my own names “Vincent” was taken from the Anglican Bishop Vincent Tonks. My good friend, Hally Dougan, claims that he inherited “Harold” from Bishop Piggott. And I am sure that King Arthur got his “Arthur Francis” from Governor Grimble. And so the story goes. Nowadays many boys in their late teens bear names such as “Gary” or “Rohan” for obvious reasons.

All of this is understandable, but one should do away with names that are a throw-back to our dark ages.

“Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce”, “Imperial Optical”, “Empire Cigarette”, and “Colonial Life Insurance” should go by the board.

And what about Alfie King MBE (the Empire folded up long ago) still operating the “Colony Garage” in this day and age!

Similarly, sports organisations have to watch it. You may pardon Everton, Arsenal, Sheffield and Somerset, cricket and football teams which gloried in their English- place names during the colonial era. But there can be no excuse for carrying over such names as Radcliffe, Luton and Wembley in these new times.

It is as bad as adding “Royal” to the Police Force on the eve of independence! In this context, no praise is too high for the “Hairoun” club of yesteryear, the current “Chatoyer” basketball competition, and the fascinating and meaningful names affixed to many of the vans which ply our roads today.

Finally, one of our panellists quite rightly set great store by symbolism and names with a message. For example, he felt that there was a world of difference between calling an institution a mental home or crazy house, as against a psychiatric hospital. Perhaps it tells its own story to relate that in independent St. Vincent, we call some of our workers “Scavengers” who are termed “garbologists” in other countries. Come to think of it, there can be a hell of a lot in a name.

THE MATTER OF A NAME is so loaded with political significance that many dependent territories shed their colonial names on their attainment of Independence. For example, Ghana (Gold Coast), Zimbabwe (South Rhodesia), Zambia (North Rhodesia), Shri Lanka (Ceylon), Bangladesh (East Pakistan) with Anzania (South Africa) to come. Nationals of these countries will testify to the psychological emancipation and mental liberation brought by the mere change of name.

Developers and foreign investors often take the point and turn it upside down. That could well be the reason why on their change of ownership, Young’s Island dropped the apostrophe s, and Prune Island became Palm Island- to signal that there had been a break of sort with the past. One well-meaning group suggested in good faith that we become “Youlou and the Begos”, but the balance of convenience favour that we continue with good old St Vincent and the Grenadines.

In other words, the problem must be tackled seriously from the nationalist viewpoint but without ever taking leave of common sense or losing a sense of proportion. That is why I will persist with the slave “John” at the expense of some sweetsounding African name.

Not too long ago we had a local political group with its frontline members called “Kamara” (Rose), “Kambui” (Cottle), “Soyica” (Caspar), and the rest, until the whole thing backfired when a suitable African name could not be found for its leader Ralph Gonsalves!

These days, the new fashion is for the local adherents of Islam to adopt muslin names by deed poll. So that when I recently hailed a brother in robes as “Reggie”, he cut me cold with a penetrating stare and grunted “Mustapha”! Fair enough.

V Protecting our children

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 9.

Letters

THIS MONTH, November, we celebrated another anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Children. And before I make other points on the issue of Children, allow me, Mr. Editor, to offer condolences to the Iton family on the passing of their matriarch Mrs. Millicent Iton. Mrs. Iton it was who did much to advance the rights of children here, and to being to the fore the whole issue

of the Convention on the Rights of Children. Her work on behalf of children of SVG must never be forgotten.

I want now, Mr. Editor, to address the issue of sexual abuse of children.

The Convention on the Rights of Children makes provision for children to be protected against sexual abuse. Parents need to be made aware of these rights to which our

country subscribes.

It may be worth repeating, that sexual abuse of a child is an immoral, horrendous act that not only violates the rights of a child and could cause that child to be traumatized for the balance of his/her life.

And it is worth noting, that while we believe that these gruesome acts are committed by strangers, reports show that the greatest danger

to children are those who are close to them — fathers, step fathers, uncles, cousins, etc.

But reports also show that these acts are likely to be committed by persons whom the children trust, like pastors, teachers and bus conductors.

It is our duty, as family and as community, to protect our children from sexual

abuse. It is important that parents educate themselves about sexual abuse and then educate their children.

We cannot afford to sit idly by and let our children’s innocence be taken away from them.

Theresa M.

The Bible Motor vehicles are weapons and stress

I WONDER if anybody else out there is thinking like me?

I mean, anything you put in a man’s hand could be a weapon — even a motor vehicle. As a matter of fact, a motor vehicle is a grave weapon. There is no telling. You could be driving for umpteen years, and one day, just so, you knock somebody down, not your fault, but the person dies.

This might sound crazy, but think about it.

When you put a minivan in the hands of a driver who is bent on driving recklessly, you are putting a weapon in his hand.

And when he continues day in day out to drive like a mad man, skipping traffic, racing along our

narrow streets at rocket speed, driving on the opposite side of the road, this is very much like acting with intent to kill someone. What that reckless, careless driver does with the vehicle, shows that he has little regard for his passengers, people in other vehicles and even pedestrians.

You might want to say that the careless driver just wants to skip traffic to get in front. But it must be that they are aware of the consequences so that when they continue to do it, then they show an intention to do harm.

So, if these drivers know what is good for them, they should change their ways before a law is introduced that allows the state

to charge then with attempted murder, when they behave like men from some other planet.

And by the way, passengers are aware of the lack of care the drivers show, but they do nothing about it. Passengers, in a way, can be blamed when something happens.

Passengers, who we assume are aware of the dangers that can arise in these vans driven by uncaring drivers, must not accept it. If they do, then what they tell me is that they are encouraging the bad and reckless driving that can result in death.

Sorry for sounding so harsh, but that’s just me.

Charles

Stop and search I WAS HOME recently, and in being brought up to date on how things pan out here, one of the things brought to my attention was the police ‘stop and search’ measures. I was made to understand that these ‘Stop and Search’ exercises had more to do than with matters related to traffic offences.

As someone living in the USA, I am moved to inquire about the rules of engagement in SVG for police “stop and search” I wonder whether our police officers in SVG, like their counterparts in the USA, must have ‘reasonable suspicion’ that the individual has committed, or is about to commit an offence/crime?

And even where there is ‘reasonable suspicion’, there is the issue of the scope of police power when they enforce the ‘stop and search’

measure. What I know exists in the USA is that when a police officer has ‘reasonable suspicion’ to stop someone, it is only to question NOT SEARCH him or her as a first step. According to the ‘nature of the suspicion’, the officer is authorized to frisk the person.

Of course, as had been reported by the US media, there have been very many cases of abuse of this procedure/ measure, especially as it relates to Blacks and Latinos, and even where there are clearly defined rules as to what ‘reasonable suspicion’ is.

What I discerned from what was described to me as it related to similar action in SVG, there are no clear rules governing the ‘stop and search’ measure in SVG. The police, from all accounts, have all right

as per determining ‘reasonable suspicion’ (if at all they do) and the right to take action as they see fit.

I am well aware of the increase in criminal acts here, especially crime as it relates to violence and drugs. The police must be given certain assurances as they go out to fight this scourge (of crime), but these assurances must not be at the expense of the rights of citizens. As far as I know, each person is innocent until proven guilty.

I would like to think that the Police in SVG would look carefully at how they determine and what constitutes ‘reasonable suspicion’, and how that is implemented in actual practice.

The police remain our guardians and must be respected as such, but

they must not be made to feel that they can wield unwarranted power over the citizenry.

Claude Peters Pa, Ca., USA.

FOR THOSE who are not aware, the Bible speaks about dealing with stress.

Stress is anxiety, hardship, tension, just to name a few. How can we get rid of them?

Paul described his life of serving God with, among others, words like tribulation, distress, imprisonment and sleepless nights. But he also linked stress with treasures that money cannot buy, e.g. purity, kindness, sincere love, honesty, rejoicing and having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

As long as we live on this earth, we will experience the unbreakable connection between trouble and hope. The real hope walks us through.

Jesus said “that if we want to follow Him, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross”. If we try to save our life, we will lose it. If we lose our life for His sake, we will find it.

We must challenge ourselves to find joy in our various trials. As long as we attempt to * How come the obey Christ, we can police didn’t move to count on having to deal trace the telephone with stress; but we can for that young girl also count on living pure whose body was lives with kindness and found in Akers, like sincere love. These will they did in the help to deal with stress. incident involving the Minister’s wife?

Bishop Ezekiel Creese * Is there any truth in what school children are saying, that the police are dragging their feet on this matter? * How is the government going to ensure that those they give licence to purchase marijuana for medical purpose, don’t traffic the herb otherwise? * How are things going with the handing over of Buccament Bay Resort to those new owners? * Cocaine still coming into SVG, eh? When is the last time a bust was made? Why are people saying the importers must be protected?

V

10. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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The Opposition NDP: Stumped again!!!

IT’S GENERALLY accepted by all, that the New Democratic Party, led by Godwin Friday, is unable to learn anything that relates to the administration of this country. They peddle so many lies and half truths about the excellent work of the ULP and Comrade Ralph, that most Vincentians are wondering if that political party has any shame.

They tell so many lies, and when they are discovered, and the truth is told, the NDP shows no remorse, no regrets; they just simply move on to the next set of lies. As the local parlance goes, the NDP is “barefaced” in their utterances of lies and more lies. They have no regrets when the lies are exposed, and in many cases, continue to tell these lies, without remorse.

Take the construction of the international airport at Argyle. For some time now, the NDP has been claiming that the airport was constructed at a cost of one billion dollars. From time to time, their spokespersons on radio will tinker with this figure, and go as far as to say that the cost of construction is around one point three billion dollars.

In fact, the government has said that the construction of the airport, is in the region of EC$750 million dollars.

But we know that the NDP will continue to talk about a billion dollars, as the construction cost of the airport.

The IMF Report The recent Article Four consultations between an IMF delegation and the government, stakeholder organizations, and members of the opposition, is a nightmare scenario for the NDP. All through 2018, they have been saying bad things about the country’s economy, all lies of course. Now the IMF proclaims for all to hear, that the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been recovering. You will note the phrase used by the IMF. In fact, while the NDP has been preaching doom and gloom all through 2018, the government has been focusing, as always, on the economy of the country.

And so the IMF says “following the opening of the new airport, tourism arrivals have recovered, boosting tourism related services”. Readers will remember the prediction by the IMF last year that the international airport will bring benefits, and will positively affect the economy of the country. This is the same international airport that the NDP poured scorn upon, with one of their supporters, Luzette King, wishing that a tsunami would come and wash it away.

Most importantly, the IMF report said, “The growth outlook is positive.

Staff expects real GDP to rebound from 0.7 percent in 2017 to 2 percent in 2018, and further to 2.3 percent in 2019, driven by increases in tourism arrivals, tourist related activities…including investments in hotels and resorts, and related local production”. All this is bad news for the NDP, and runs counter to the lies they have been telling about the economy of the country.

The IMF goes on to state that “beyond 2020, growth would be sustained at around 2.3 percent, assuming steady tourism and investment growth”. That is why the ULP administration has paid

On the legalisation and decriminalisation of Marijuana: The general position of the NDP (Pt.2)

particular attention to hotel development. Next year, construction work will begin on the governmentowned hotel in the Central Leeward area, and there are plans to construct a ninety-room hotel in the Brighton area.

More NDP Lies In the face of all this positive news, we have the NDP continuing their ridiculous strategy of selling Vincentian passports, and calling it a citizenship by investment programme.

And we have the spectacle of St. Clair Leacock, the MP for Central Kingstown, attempting to fool Vincentians, by trying to compare the US based ED5 programme, as being similar to their plans to sell passports.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

The United States ED5 programme is an investor based visa application programme which has set conditions for persons who apply, and results in a US “green card” being issued to those persons who meet the conditions. The NDP programme is based on the outright selling of Vincentian passports, similarly to what obtains in other OECS member states. They could never be one and the same, as Leacock seems to suggest. It’s a pitiful attempt by the NDP to cloak their passport selling programme with some sort of legal framework.

But this is the trade mark of the NDP over the years. How can we forget the statement by the member for East Kingstown, Arnhim Eustace, that the associate degree programmes were not worth the paper they were written on, even as our students were accessing universities with the same associate degrees. This dastardly lie was aimed at giving the education revolution a black eye.

It did not succeed, because, even as Eustace uttered that statement, our valiant students were busy completing their associate programme, safe in the knowledge that this would ensure that they get advance placements, when they applied to the University of the West Indies, and other learning institutions in the world.

Conclusion The NDP is approaching a high level of desperation, as they see that all their efforts to paint the ULP in a bad light, are failing. Their members, especially St. Clair Leacock, Daniel Cummings and Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, realise that time is not on their side, and so desperation has set in.

Meanwhile the ULP administration, superbly led by Comrade Ralph, will continue its extraordinary work in relation to the socio-economic development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It is well established in the consciousness of Vincentians, that the ULP is a force for good in our beloved State. Even the NDP has come to this understanding. After all, when asked about their development plans for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, they could only say “Ask Ralph”.

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 realisation 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.

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 supports the view of the report of the Commission that, “all criminal penalties from marijuana laws should be removed.”

The NDP supports decriminalisation for personal use of up to two ounces.

The Party is of the view that privilege of the usage of marijuana should be allowed for religious purposes, such as, for Rastafari to practise their faith. The usage of marijuana in a person’s home should be a matter of privacy and freedom of rights and should not be subjected to government or state perusals on harassment. Persons should be allowed to grow a number of plants in their homes, (perhaps up to ten (10) plants), for personal use. These views are supported by many prominent bodies and persons throughout the region. They have all expressed their opinions on the subject of marijuana and are calling for full legalisation an or decriminalisation of marijuana for all its usages.

We anticipate that tensions will develop between investors and local traditional farmers as the industry progresses. As a result, we are in agreement with the Caricom Commission Report which states “Appropriate land tenure and licensing strategies need to be developed to be inclusive to small, landless farmers, who currently squat.” While the main bill seeks to set up a cannabis industry, the contents of the bill hardly venture into the realms of encouraging locals to be innovative and enterprising.

Vincentians should be positioned to be more than just the cultivators of marijuana, who merely provide raw materials to foreign investors. Local people who wish to set up marijuanalinked businesses should be encouraged to do so, subject to appropriate licensing regulations.

The ULP government is opposing decriminalisation or legalisation of marijuana apparently because St.Vincent and the Grenadines is a party to many UN narcotics and illegal drug conventions. The argument is that if St. Vincent and the Grenadines contravenes them by legalising or decriminalising marijuana, we run the risk of being sanctioned or otherwise penalized. While this may have some merit, we have seen that some of our commonwealth counterparts such as Jamaica, Antigua and Canada have gone in a direction away from the UN conventions. Uruguay was the first country to legalise marijuana usage.

Since then, other countries have either followed or have started the conversation to change their marijuana laws. In the United States of America, the enforcer of the UN Drug Policy; over thirty states have gone the way of using medical marijuana, and others have decriminalised marijuana for recreational usage.

These conventions, as set out by the UN, “Have been labelled redundant and

dysfunctional even by UN bodies and now lack the legitimacy and consensus to seriously challenge law reform, ” according to the Caricom Commission.

We accept that position, and the associated view that there are now compelling arguments for reform of the outdated, ineffective and harmful legal regime that currently governs the use of cannabis/marijuana. Caricom must work together in an efficacious manner to create a regional position to challenge and seek to amend the outdated UN treaties that govern cannabis. It is the view of the Caricom Commission on Marijuana that Caricom member states, “…should declare that the treaties contravene human rights principles in CARICOM states, so as to ground a justification for avoiding treaty obligations.”

The experience of ganja farmers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines lies with the cultivation of marijuana extensively for recreational purposes.

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 legalising and decriminalising for recreational usage.

When Canada legalised marijuana a few weeks ago, 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. The challenges that will be accompanying the medical marijuana industry will not be so daunting for the traditional farmers who have a wealth of experience in producing marijuana for recreational use.

With the change in attitude for 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 why the continued prohibitionist view should be given any relevance in today’s discussion on the way forward regarding marijuana. The continued prosecution of persons for possession of marijuana for personal use is a waste of time and resources to all involved. How can a modern society seek to advance with such backward view? The mountain of scientific evidence available in support of decriminalisation or legalisation is growing. And the number of countries and states in the US that are rethinking their hard-lined prohibitionist view of the 1961 Convention on Narcotic Drugs is growing daily.

The NDP considers full legalisation; an aspiration that we and all other peoples and nations should work towards. The world is beginning to recognise and accepts marijuana as a herb with medicinal values. The stigma that has been wrongfully attached to it for over 100 years is eroding rapidly.

The benefits are being highlighted and embraced worldwide. In the meantime, we must carefully craft what is good for St. Vincent and the Grenadines and do what is right by our people. Free up the herb!

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 11.

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But for the Grace of God

“For we are human, weak and prone to wrong, and by Thy grace alone are we made strong.” Henry Coyle, Thankful Heart SEVERAL YEARS AGO, I came across a story that had been penned by Bonnie Chamberlin. It is alleged that Bonnie had heard it from an old priest. The story is repeated here with the expectation that it could be as much a source of encouragement to this column’s readers as it was to me when I first read it: Centuries ago, a great artist was engaged to paint a mural for the cathedral in a Sicilian town. The subject was the life of Christ. For many years, the artist labored diligently, and finally the painting was finished except for the two most important figures: the Christ Child and Judas Iscariot. He searched far and wide for suitable models.

One day while walking in the city, he came upon some children playing in the street. Among them was a 12year-old boy whose face stirred the painter’s heart.

The artist took the child home with him, and day after day, the boy sat patiently until the face of the Christ Child was finished. But the painter still had found no model for the portrait of Judas.

The story of the unfinished masterpiece spread afar, and many men, fancying themselves of wicked countenance, offered to pose for Judas. But in vain the old painter looked for Judas, as he envisioned him–a man warped by life, enfeebled by surrender to greed and lust.

Then one afternoon as he sat in a tavern, a gaunt and tattered figure staggered across the threshold. `Wine, wine,’ he begged. The startled painter looked into a face that seemed to bear the marks of every sin of mankind.

Greatly excited, the old painter said, `Come with me, and I will give you wine.’

For many days the painter worked feverishly to complete his masterpiece. As the work went on, a change came over the model. A strange tension replaced the stuporous languor, and his bloodshot eyes were fixed with horror on the painted likeness of himself. One day, perceiving his subject’s agitation, the painter paused in his work. `My son,’ he said, `what troubles you so?’

The man buried his face in his hands, sobbing. After a long moment, he lifted pleading eyes to the old painter’s face. `Do you not then remember me?

Years ago, I was your model for the Christ Child.’

Stories like these often remind us

of how fragile life is. They often encourage us to pause and to be thankful for God’s grace and His mercies. We could quite easily and readily say, “But for the grace of God, that person in the story could be me.”

When the tragedies and trials of life visit us, so much depends on how we react at that stressful, traumatic moment. Those with resolve may stagger and even fall, but find the courage to get up and to continue the journey. Others, under similar circumstances, may wallow and whine — allowing the tentacles of self-pity to stifle hope. Some turn to alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Others seek to deaden their senses and erase memories by engaging in a host of immoral and self-destroying behaviours. However, there is always reason to hope and to keep faith alive if/when we pause long enough to realise that God’s grace and His mercies are beyond our comprehension. His love is wider than the ocean, deeper than the deepest sea, higher than the highest mountain, and His arms ever outstretched to welcome and accept the wayward, the worn, the dejected, and the sinful.

So many of us may be able to identify with the model in the story.

There may have been those precious moments when we were innocent and pure. However, with the passing of time, we may have drifted away and may have given in to the temptations to do wrong. We may have sought to justify the infractions, having concluded that these were “small indiscretions”. With time, those “little transgressions” took root and, before we realized it, we were so far along the road to destruction. But God is a good God. Sometimes a story is read, a telephone call is made, a letter is written, an e-mail message is sent, a Facebook entry posted, or a newspaper article appears … to intercept with intent. We are reminded of God’s grace and His mercy, and we are forever thankful that we had not gone beyond His reach. He reminds us that we are still His valuable creation, even though we may have drifted far from His care and protection. His grace is ever sufficient to meet our every need.

We could have been much worse off but for His grace.

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

We are the masters of our fate ‘Power concedes nothing without a demand. Never did and never will.’

Frederick Douglas ‘The world belongs to those who fight for it.’ Fidel Castro ‘Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.’ Arundhati Roy

oils are most useful and helpful. In Japan and the Ukraine, they are planting hemp in the areas contaminated by nuclear waste because of its extraordinary absorptive capacity. We also know now that the oils in marijuana can be used to wean people of addictions of various sorts. Marijuana has been proven to assist people who are chronically ill as well as to alleviate the pain.

There are at least two active chemicals in marijuana that researchers think have medicinal applications. Those are cannabidiol (CBD) – which seems to impact the brain without a high– and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – which has pain relieving properties and is largely responsible for the high.

In addition to CBD and THC, there are another 400 or so chemical compounds, more than 60 of which are cannabinoids. Many of these could have medical uses. But without more research, we won’t know how to best make use of those compounds.

With the positive revelations regarding marijuana, one can only hope that the authorities adopt a holistic approach to marijuana. SVG is not going to be a major player in the medical marijuana business. We do not have the technology, finances or lands to parley marijuana into a lucrative niche. Medicine is high science for which we are way behind the curve. Therefore, an approach which entails the legal exploitation of marijuana must have as its major components health and justice.

Over the last 100 years, there has been a full throttle assault on marijuana use. State institutions such as the courts, prisons, schools, churches and their leaders played a key role in the stigmatization and brutalization of people and demonization of the herb. Since most of the marijuana is produced on stateowned lands, anything short of a major land reform programme, which allows traditional growers to legally farm, will not serve the national interest and will amount to a giveaway to the local and foreign moneyed class.

It is said that the arc of the universe may bend toward justice. But it doesn’t bend on its own. Many fought, some died. Others bore the pain and endured the scorn and humiliation. Any real recognition of their effort and sacrifice should make us all the more humble.

The state must apologize for its arrogance. The church must atone for its connivance, and our teachers must be armed with more scientific information. All of us must reflect on our ignorance. Most importantly, the state cannot now benefit from marijuana production without a commitment to make whole all those it damaged.

YOU KNOW THE WORLD is changing when those who fought you at every turn embrace your cause and attempt to adopt it as their own. They may even try to deny that you ever championed what they now embrace on the hustle.

Who remembers when Rasta called alcohol ‘the devil’s soup’ and warned against the excessive use of salt, sugar, meat and oils? Most of those warnings were scoffed at and scorned.

Today our youth drink more rum than water; too many of our people, especially our women, are no longer hungry, but overweight and obese.

Few of us might remember the days when a young woman with a high stomach was met with the query, ‘Girl, you making baby?’

We are witnessing the negative impact of the failure of our people, especially our leaders, to see and embrace what truth there was in those warnings. This is particularly true if those espousing the novel idea are from the margins of society, the proverbial ‘faces at the bottom of the well’.

Well, as Reggae legend Bunny Wailer said in his classic Black Heart Man: ‘Wisdom is found in the simplest of places in the nick of time.’ As it was with the dos and don’ts for health and healthy living, so it is with medicine.

It was Rasta who embraced and smoked the herb, proclaimed it as medicine, and declared that the herb was for the ‘healing of the nation.’

Yet again they are proven right. By this time, two generations of Vincentians have embraced the herb.

As one activist said, ‘SVG is a Ganja country.’ However, there is the pervasive warning that marijuana is a serious psychotic drug that plays havoc with the health of our young people. Name a Rasta or some heavy smoker who lost his mind to the herb?

Others peddle the discredited claim that marijuana is gateway drug. By this they mean that people, especially the youth, start with marijuana and then graduate to harder substances like ‘crack’. They even say that a high percentage of the persons at the mental asylum disclose that they may have used marijuana.

As we say in the law, ‘he who frames the question wins the argument.’ One can be sure if these same young people were asked if they ever had alcohol, a similarly high percentage would have said yes. But no one makes the argument that alcohol use creates pressures that lead to mental health issues. In more developed countries, over use of alcohol is treated as a mental health issue.

As we move to the commercial exploitation of marijuana, we are finding out that smoking the herb is quite wasteful and allows for the least Send comments, criticisms & benefits from a health standpoint. The suggestions to jomosanga@gmail.com

V

12. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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The economy gone!

THE ECONOMY gone! This is the cry being heard all around the country.

Many businessmen and businesswomen have told Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, that the ULP, regime is out of its depth and the economy is gone. They are disappointed with the ULP regime which has been a big failure to our people and our country.

Business owners complain about the same thing: lack of customers which means lack of sales. Their businesses are struggling and many are being forced to close. The sales figures for some businesses are in a worse position than 40 years ago.

It must be said that our graceful country has been mashed up by this incompetent government.

The people have zero confidence in the ULP regime’s ability to create a strong and sustainable economy. Just recently, on Monday 19 November 2018, a senior and prominent businessman said to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, “Tell Ralph the economy gone.”

It is quite amazing that in this day and age, a government can give away more revenue in tax exemptions than it puts into the Treasury. The super-rich in Mustique and Canouan and Taiwan pay little or no tax or customs duty to the SVG Treasury.

According to Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, who has a BSc (Hons) degree in Accounting and Finance and Economics at Brookes University, Oxford, England, we cannot build infrastructure, provide high-quality healthcare and provide free, high-quality education from preschool to university, if we put peanuts into the SVG Treasury and give away billions in tax exemptions.

Gonsalves’ economic strategy of begging and borrowing from around the world is an economic failure. It has caused our country to continually have a fiscal deficit and massive public debt.

The situation is totally unacceptable; Gonsalves must resign for his gross incompetence and warped policies.

No country can progress positively without competent leadership. All countries with strong economies have strong leaders. Leaders have to be visionary, creative and must know their subject. The leaders in SVG are confused and incompetent; consequently, and sadly, our economy gone and the country is falling apart.

Rather than begging and wasting taxpayers’ money on useless projects, SVG needs a government focused on building a revenue base and mass employment. A Green government would focus on utilising SVG’s indigenous resources for agroprocessing, exporting fresh drinking

water, creating an Atlantic Ocean tuna fishing and processing industry, renewable energy production and educating the people with our own SVG university.

We must urgently change direction from negative thinking to positive development. Businesses need a strong economy for them to flourish. In SVG, the economy is dangerously weak. No money is circulating and the high taxes,

such as VAT, are punishing businesses.

Small businesses are the beating heart of a healthy, strong, growing economy. SVG businesses need a strong economy in which to grow. We need money to be circulating in SVG. The economy gone! The economy gone!

SVG Green Party

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 13.

44. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 , 2018. 15.

News

Digicel’s Red Friday meets Christmas

Digicel’s Marketing Executive Jamisha Wright explaining the ‘deals’ available at Digicel, this Christmas.

Fanta Williams, Digicel Country Manager, addressing customers and the media.

DIGICAL STORE, ‘The Cell’, on Back Street opened for business as usual on Friday, November 3rd. But there was something unusual about that particular morning – the telecommunications giant was about to unleash a brand new promotion which they titled: ‘Gift of More”.

Digicel subscribers, telecommunications enthusiasts and others just out of curiosity, filled up the store way before the promotion’s 11:00 am launch. The air was rife with expectation. On the outside, a crowd of a similar composition flocked to get wind of the details and to await their chance to take advantage of the deals to be offered.

Then with Country

Manager, Fanta Williams and Marketing Executive Jamisha Wright installed at the ready; sound tunefully in place; entertainer Mr. Christmas — Carlton ‘CP’ Hall, all set to provide the hype; and Santa and his helpers rearing to go, the launch commenced with a vibrant, “Today, just for coming here, everyone walks out with a free gift!”

‘Gift of More’ Christmas Promotion The ‘Gift of More’ Christmas Promotion gives customers the opportunity to win up to $60,000 in cash and weekly prizes. It is open to all existing prepaid, postpaid and potential customers, whether they are completely new to Continued on Page 14.

Santa and ‘CP’ Hall kept the crowd happy with gifts and songs.

There was standing room only, if any, last Friday at the ‘The Cell’, Digicel’s retail outlet in Kingstown.

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16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

Urban ExpressionsÊ „ILLUSIONS‰:

A play with a difference proceeded to live a life of torment of abject poverty, abuse and upstarted, unsympathetic children.

Unlike Richie, though, she chose to look towards a bright future, refusing to lie down and play dead.

Apart from the play action, the ‘Illusions’ story took its excellence from other features — an intriguing set: office table and chair in the forefront; with left and right areas to the back of the stage where Richie (left) turns his back to the mirror as though mannequin-like figures to ignore it. Note the all- encompassing eye at the sat frozen in place. But centre (top) of the set. its most interesting feature was a mirror Right: Journeying into the past, ‘the woman’ (right) mounted in the forefront becomes the girl. to the right, and the open

by GLORIAH… door at the centre of the National Theatre Arts back of the stage that Festival hosted by the THE CAST OF THE URBAN Bank of SVG and the was dominated by a huge woman’; supporting actor he found himself Expression Theatre eye. Added to this, a Ministry of Tourism, ‘the mirror’ played by tormented by the Company and other constantly flashing light Sports and Culture.

Akini Hypolite; Kadeen brutality with which he personnel concerned with emphasized this eye, ‘Illusions’, said to be Williams as ‘Bradley’; treated his children. the production and giving the impression “an epic insight into Still refusing to accept presentation of the play that it was actively human kind”, lived up to Jomari John as ‘Jerry’; his flaw, Richie argued ‘Illusions’, could rightly engaged in the its theme. The storyline and Sylvorn Lavia as counselor/wife. with ‘himself’ which was proceedings. hold their heads up high originated from an idea ‘Illisions’ told the story presented as ‘the mirror’ and take another standing of Sean Frederick, was Even though the play under the constant watch employed an unchanged ovation from the weekend morphed into the written of Richie, clearly experiencing some of the ‘all-seeing’ eye. audiences for a stellar set, it did not leave the word by David ‘Darkie’ The narrative performance of a play with Williams and directed by mental delusions but audience confused about refusing to admit this to continued through the a difference. the story’s themes and Nisha Hope. Its cast of himself. He takes life of the woman who, The play was sequence, as the exacting Sunday 18th November several journeys into his when still a girl, was performed at the Peace use of light and sound featured: lead actor inner self to explore his molested by an uncle Memorial Hall between made references crystal Stanley Johnson as relationship with his with whom she 16th and 18th November, Richie; lead actress clear. wife, who also was his eventually made a as part of the 2018 Lighting was used to Nerissa King as ‘the counselor. Additionally, family. The woman extremes but with great effect. The woman’s flashback to a girl was powerful amid dim light, as the stories of her Continued from Page 13. when signing up for a Freedom appliances, and smartphones. childhood were unveiled Postpaid Plan. Existing postpaid and made the scenarios Then, to put the icing on the telecommunications or simply clients who currently subscribe to plausible. Then, Richie’s Christmas cake, on December desired to switch service any More and Extra plans will 28th 2018 the ‘Grand Draw of a flashback done in clear providers. Customers could grab receive free upgrades to the plan Home Makeover’ will be made. light which exposed his promotion deals by simply for the next three months.

Every customer participating in cruelty towards his sons ‘topping-up’, activating plans, With the official discourse Digicel’s The ‘Gift of More’ in former years, gave the purchasing a SIM or handset, completed and microphones out of audience reasons for his Christmas Promotion will be signing up for a Freedom Postpaid eligible for this draw. the way, customers flocked to the current mental state.

Plan, and paying their postpaid desk to immediately kick start Similarly, sound was bills on time.

Details on the deals their participation in the deals. on point — appropriate Country Manager Fanta As Santa moved through the and timely, as per Williams announced that Red With a promise that no-one will crowd making sure that everyone Richie’s vexation with Friday had met Christmas at be left behind, Marketing was happy, his helpers worked the mirror, to the point Digicel, and assured, “This Executive Jamisha Wright systematically to provide gifts, where he began to smash promotion is designed to give all particularized the benefits as they treats and refreshments to those it. His hand went up Vincentians the opportunity to related to prepaid and postpaid gathered. and came down, the light enjoy more: more cash, more data, customers.

Carlton ‘CP’ Hall chimed in faded and just as he more fun and most of all, more Prepaid customers purchasing with his signature brand of should have hit the freedom.” handsets will have the chance to energetic Christmas music. The morror, the poignant She explained further that get double data, up to an entire pace was set. The deals had sound of breaking glass every customer performing year on their first Quick Pick started, and clients were already pervaded the transactions in Digicel stores, or activation if their purchase being satisfied. performance. It was at resellers throughout Saint amounts to a minimum of $129.

Now, even as they continue to believable! Everyone got Vincent and the Grenadines, will Those purchasing a SIM will also cash in, everyone awaits that the point. be entered automatically in the enjoy double data for six months. December 28th draw. Who will be Through it all, kudos prize draws which will include Similarly, postpaid customers the final lucky customer? Time have to go to the prizes such as —supermarket will receive more Data and Talk will give that answer! playwright’s repeated use shopping sprees, cash, household

Digicel’s Red Friday meets Christmas

David ‘Darkie’ Williams, wrote the script.

Sean Frederick conceived the idea for the play.

Nisha Hope directed the play. of monologues cleverly crafted into the action and contributing to the storyline.

On the downside, the front-of-house area could have been more appropriately decorated to make patrons ready for what they were about to see.

All in all, it is fair to say that Vincentian audiences have very much come to expect loads of hilarious laughter whenever they go to see a play. It has become quite clear that the need for resensitizing them to the different genres in theatre is necessary.

‘Illusions’ was one play that enthusiasts should remember and that could begin to carve an appreciation for other genres.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 17.

Arts

Police Drama says ÂLITTLE IS MUCHÊ

(L-R foreground): ‘Tanto’, ‘Mother Herbie’ and ‘Millie’. there was ‘Lion King’ who had returned home FOR THE PAST TWELVE with much money after YEARS, the Police Drama working overseas for an Club has been making its extended time. He drank presence felt in the and hung out with National Theatre Art friends to his leisure, but Festival. The Club’s put no value on his wife. performances have not In fact, he abused her. wavered, and their 2018 Amidst it all the presentation, ‘Little is ‘Mother Herbie’, the voice Much’, was no different, as of reason for these in the 2018 version of the women, a voice that they festival, the Police were at abhorred in the it again; this time, with beginning but one whose their presentation of, advice helped to save the “Little is Much”. day for both of them.

With a story divulging Before that came to detail of everyday life, past, though, ‘Lion King’ lead character ‘Tanto’, had so abused his wife whose husband worked that she had to call her overseas, was quite well friend ‘Tanto’ to help her off. She, however, evacuate the premises. wanted more, even ‘Millie’, meanwhile, choosing to compare having forsaken her herself with her friend husband, had an affair ‘Millie’ who didn’t have with a cart vendor whom as much as she. Then she indicted when her husband met them in a compromising position.

‘Tanto’, who proved that she wanted it all, had fostered a relationship with ‘Lion King’ even as his wife was her close friend.

In the end, a distraught ‘Lion King’ was reunited with his wife; ‘Millie’ was once again faithful to her husband; ‘Tanto’ was reunited with her husband and was pregnant with twins — a situation that ‘Lion King’ swore he had orchestrated.

All had come to realize Meldon James – the that wanting everything police officer behind the is not necessary and that productions of the at times, ‘little is more’.

Police Drama Club.

‘Little is Much’ began

by GLORIAH…

with a bus stop set. It was minimal but it worked. This same set underwent changes, some elaborate, some not. The use of lighting and sound was commendable, the lighting more so than the sound. Costume was realistic and relevant.

Make-up was epitomized when Lion King’s wife returned to the stage with evidence of extensive abuse captured effectively with make-up to her face and arms.

That truly deserved a round of applause.

As for the plot, the overlaying story was pertinent and timely, but some of the subplots did not contribute significantly to it. They appeared to focus on providing humour for the audience. This detracted from the main narrative in some instances.

There was, for example, a point nearing the end of the play when ‘Tanto’ and ‘Millie’, both having taken the constant advice of ‘Mother Herbie’ and converted to Christianity, came together to discuss ‘Millie’s’ errant love affair. Why was it then that they chose to glory in the details of the affair with such exuberance?

Although the juicy gossip elicited many laughs, it was out of sync.

The acting was commendable and outstanding the beginning at the bus stop. It, however,

fluctuated on several occasions thereafter.

There were some areas that could have done with some brushing up, especially in the focus on the actors’ interruption of the ‘Lion King’ (centre) and friends at the bus stop. audience’s line of sight.

Below: ‘Mille’ (2nd from right) pretending not to The good thing is, know the vendor (on ground). playwright and director, Meldon James, has been leading in these roles for the last thirteen years. He has stated that the play for the upcoming year is already written.

Audiences will look forward to another great performance.

he The T h Board of Directors anagemennt and Staff St Managemen Management of the KINGSTOW WN CO-OPERATIVE KINGSTOWN CO-OPERATIVE CREDIT ED UNION LIMITED end condolences cond dolences o hereby extend to the famil family y of

BRO. BRO. JULIUS ANTHONY

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18. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Tropical Shipping supports WPP ANOTHER COMMERCIAL HOUSE here has lent its support to the World Pediatric Project (WPP)which brings free specialized and advanced medical care to the children of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the rest of the OECS. On Tuesday 27th November, 2018, Cedric McIntyre, Island Manager Tropical Shipping, presented a cheque to Lauren McIntosh —Executive Director of World Pediatric Project, in a brief handing over ceremony, which took place at the office of WPP, Kingstown.

McIntyre stated that it was a privilege to be able to make a meaningful contribution to the World Pediatric Project to assist specifically with its December medical mission and their community clinics.

He explained that the donation was in keeping with his company’s recognition of its corporate (social) responsibility and its particular commitment to support programmes aimed at improving the lives of children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ms. McIntosh expressed gratitude on behalf of the WPP, assuring that the donation will go some way in defraying costs for the Mission.

To demonstrate their recognition of the invaluable support, McIntosh handed over a Certificate of Appreciation to Mr. Mc Intyre.

Lauren McIntosh –Executive Director of World Pediatric Project, accepts cheque from Cedric McIntyre, Island Manager - Tropical Shipping.

Sister Jackie Browne-King, WPP’s Eastern Caribbean Director, in brief remarks, informed that they had just completed their Scoliosis Mission, the largest financial mission for the year.

Browne-King said that to date, the WPP has performed some 73 spinal fusion surgeries which is no easy task.

She looks forward to forging ties similar to the one recognized with Tropical Shipping, and urged other commercial entities to come on board.

Tropical Shipping has been serving the St. Vincent & the Grenadines and the Caribbean for over 50 years.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 , 2018. 19.

Tribute

A tribute to Randolph Toussaint POLICE COMMISSIONER Randolph Toussaint was a good man. He loved his police force.

In the annals of our Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, two names stand out: Colonel Sydney Anderson and Randolph Toussaint. Toussaint and I worked together to preserve the. peace and good order in our country. Toussaint, a.k.a.

‘Tous’, has gone I am retired. Where is peace and good order today? Do the young girls and boys, scared for their lives, find inspiration in the subtle message of Hope and Guidance in their mother’s anguished cry, ‘Life was not always like this,’?

When a malicious fire devastated a section of the Police Headquarters in Kingstown and many records were destroyed, we worked to reestablish confidence and build the new facility.

Hardly had I been sworn in as Prime Minister, the ‘Tous’ of long acquaintance in my Agronomist days at Campden Park Experiment Station and his at Questelles Police Station, impressed on me that I should visit “headquarters” (police) and see the state of accommodation: pieces of foam for beds, bathroom mould and empty kitchen. Out of my own pocket, I bought a kettle so that a hot cup of coffee was available before the 2 am beat on the streets. He pleaded with me to increase the ranks of corporals, as there were too many long serving ordinary policemen needing recognition.

The longest serving

Commissioner and Prime Minister both found justice only at the Privy Council, an incitement that will always hover over public confidence in our local Judicial system.

The case of ‘Tous’ is that a Prime Minister cannot take umbrage under parliamentary privilege, and that a statement in parliament that affects the constitutional rights of a citizen has to be permitted as evidence in court.

Toussaint’s classic experience was the occasion when he closed down the Adventist Crusade in Arnos Vale because it was blocking the highway and disturbing the peace in a residential neighborhood. He advised relocation on the playing field, and ignored the request of the acting Prime Minister. A litany of complaints greeted my return from a mission out of state. My response, derived from my understanding of Section 1 of the Constitution: The rights and freedom of any person cannot prejudice the rights and freedom of others and in the public interest. I agreed with the action of my Commissioner. I interfered only when a public servant failed on the job.

I loved it when a public servant declared, ‘PM, leave that to me.’ I can never forget the outstanding arrangements for the visit of our Queen Elisabeth in 1985. I wanted a team that was willing to work in the days and nights to ensure all went well.

Parnel Campbell, Rudy

Matthews and Randolph Toussaint performed.

They were all honored by Her Majesty in the ceremony on HMY Britannia with Royal Victorian Orders in recognition of outstanding service. A model of HMY Britannia crafted in Bequia was presented to Her Majesty during her visit. That

model is on permanent display among her worldwide gifts, in Buckingham Palace .

‘Tous’ directed that there be no funeral eulogies. But I will be failing my sense of dignity if I allowed his service to our peace not to be thanked.

May his ashes in the sea off Mayreau enhance

the seafood he loved.

Sir James Mitchell Randolph Toussaint served as Commissioner of Police in St. Vincent and the Grenadines from September 7, 1985 to August 20, 1997.

20. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

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22. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

MCMH jumperÊs motive unknown

ADMINISTRATOR at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) - Sister Grace Walters said that she did not know anything relating to a certain incident that occurred at the facility last weekend.

According to one media report, a young man was alleged to have jumped from the first-floor balcony of the MCMH, in what was described as an apparent suicide attempt.

When THE VINCENTIAN contacted Sister Walters, she said she was not on duty at the time of the alleged Sister Grace Walters, incident and therefore, was Administrator at the not in a position to comment MCMH, was not in a directly on what transpired. position to give any She noted, however, a details regarding a matter relating to an incident certain incident at that occurred on the weekend the hospital. was reported to her when she reported for work on Monday.

“I heard of an incident, but I cannot comment. I cannot say that happened,” Walters said regarding the alleged incident.

“Visitors saw, but to say the intent, to say how the person felt……,” Walters told THE VINCENTIAN. Reliable sources indicated that the young man did not sustain any major injuries but was warded at the MCMH where he would have undergone certain tests, the results of which would detertmine whether he would be discharged. (DD)

SVGTA elects new board Kim Halbich will lead the affairs of the SVGTA for the next two years.

KIM HALBICH OF PARADISE HOTEL will serve as the President of the SVG Hotel & Tourism Association (SVGHTA) for the next two years.

Mrs Halbich, a former Association President, was elected at the Association’s 2018 Biennial General Meeting.

Others elected to the new Board are: Vice President: Keisha Browne, Mariners Hotel; Accommodation (Apts., Guest Houses, Bed & Breakfast, Inns, Lodges) Alicia Lavia, Alojay Apts; Accommodation (Hotels) Jessica Hornsey, Beachcombers Hotel; Accommodation (Resorts): Bianca Porter, Young Island Resort; Allied (Marine Operator - Yachting/Boating): Katie Bingham, Sail Grenadines; Allied (Marine Operator - Dive): Vaughan Martin, Serenity Dive; Allied (Land/Sea Tour Operator): Michele Forsyth, Coreas Caribbean Adventures; Allied (General): Peter A. Van Whervin, Guardsman.

Outgoing President, Fitzroy Glasgow, will serve as Immediate Past President.

The new President has indicated that one of the top priorities of the new executive will be to address the issue of crime against visitors and employers.

The SVG Hotel & Tourism Association represents the tourism industry’s private sector.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 23.

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24. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

‘Cousin does mek dozen’ Dear George, I HAVE been married for 5 years now, but the marriage has not produced any children, even after trying everything in the book. The doctor has declared that the problem is with me and not my wife.

Recently, my wife suggested that she should have my cousin, who usually visits us from the U.S. get her pregnant. She said she had already discussed the matter with him and he has agreed. Of course, I would have no such thing, and dismissed the idea instantly.

George, weeks after that discussion, my wife declared she was pregnant.

She had gone ahead and slept with my cousin without consulting me. It turned out that she had been sleeping with my cousin for a longer time than I knew.

Further to this, my cousin is insisting on being in the child’s life.

My wife is standing with him and I’m like the odd one here. The latest is that she has threatened to move out unless I make things easy for him. To this day I do not know what she meant by that statement. We are constantly fighting and I need a

resolution.

Frustrated husband Dear Frustrated husband, Your wife should have never had anything to do with your cousin without your knowledge and consent.

This should have been discussed in details, and both of you should have sought professional help before plunging headlong into a situation that can have its demons.

The relationship between your wife and cousin is of concern, and she needs to clearly state where her allegiance is. While you are at it, you are best served to get some legal counsel, as this matter has the potential of a legal tussle. There may be more going on here than your wife simply asking your cousin to do you both a favour. Open your eyes!

George

Too close for comfort Dear George AFTER DATING her for over 7 years, I’ve decided to settle down with my girlfriend. We intend to buy a parcel of land and build our dream house together.

We were shown the ideal piece of land, and the price was too good to believe. But there was one problem however. The land was located next to the house of my girlfriend’s Ex. She said she was comfortable with it because they were friends. The truth is I was not aware that my girlfriend and her Ex were still friends; she had led me to believe otherwise.

She is insisting that we get the land and build there, but I’m not comfortable with it. It’s not that I do not trust her, but I would prefer not living that close to him. She has a contrary opinion.

Trying to save the peace.

Dear Trying, If that parcel of land was the last piece available, my answer to you would still be the same: Let nothing come between you and your relationship.

If you already foresee a problem, then it’s in your best interest to avoid it by all means. There are individuals who choose to remain friends with their Ex’s, but if it’s a case where your girlfriend said one thing and it’s turning out to be something else, that can be a problem going forward.

A healthy relationship is much more valuable than a too good to be true land deal.

George

One is not enough! last man she messed with was her “trainer”, according to her. I guess MY WIFE HAS had sex he was training her to be with four men in the space of one month, and unfaithful.

When I threatened to she is expecting me to leave, she admitted that forgive her and continue she cannot have sex with with the marriage. one man for the rest of The first time was in my bed while I was away her life. She still wants to stay married to me, on work. I got home unexpectedly and caught but wants to be them. I forgave her. Two permitted to have her fling. Am I being weeks later, a friend of hers showed me pictures unreasonable to ask her to pack her bags? of her and two men in bed. She claimed she Enough. was drunk. I never knew her to be a consumer of alcohol. The Dear Enough,

Dear George,

The question must be asked: Was your wife ready for marriage?

From your account of what is happening, it does not appear that way.

She cannot have it both ways. Let her know you are serious about leaving, once her position remains the same. If you decide to continue sleeping with her while you sort things out, then I suggest you protect yourself from possibly contracting a STDs.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) Don't invest too much of your own money. A trip to visit relatives should be rewarding. Try to be precise in your communications. You will have an interest in foreigners and their cultures.

TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) Don't divulge secret information. Your bankbook will suffer and your restrictions will put a damper on your relationship. You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas.

GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) Help elders in your family. Don't turn down an invitation or a challenge that could enhance your chances of meeting someone special. Do your own research and be prepared. Opportunities will come through long term investments.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Your ability to relate will close the generation gap. Do your own thing.

Social events will be favorable. Money can be made if you use your ingenuity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) Control your emotions and everything will fall into place. You may have taken on a little too much, but you will enjoy every minute of it. Don't be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) You need to focus on yourself, not on others. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately. You should not get involved in joint ventures. Avoid being overly opinionated or you will alienate friends.

CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Make sure that you take time to remember those you love. You must be careful not to reveal secrets or get involved in gossip. Keep important information to yourself. Those you live with may be experiencing problems.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) Take positive action. Complete those hobbies you started a long time ago.

Your fun loving approach will be admired and appreciated by others. You may be out of sorts If you have been extravagant or have let children or friends take advantage of you financially.

LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) Unexpected changes in friendships could occur. Your home may be in an uproar and you are best to stay out of the line of fire if at all possible. You can win points with children if you take the time to show interest in their accomplishments.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) Socializing will be more than just entertaining. Consider applying for a job in another part of the world. There might be one who is quite willing to take the credit for your work. Your domestic scene could continue to be in an uproar this week.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) Don't hesitate to voice your opinions when it comes to matters pertaining to work. Don't let emotional upset force you into the poorhouse. Help others solve their dilemmas. Your romantic inclination should lead to a committed relationship.

PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) Rethink your motives and make the necessary changes to yourself. You should socialize with clients or upper echelons of your industry if possible.

Mingle with those who have similar interests, and you should be able to start something.

ACROSS 1. Rescue 5. Clublike weapon 9. Disposed 12. First man 13. Gemstone 14. Falsehood 15. Completed 16. See 17. Unwell 18. Ostrichlike bird 20. Clique 22. Military catapult 25. Flight of steps 26. Seraglio 27. Nonsense 28. 13th letter of the Hebrew alphabet 29. Taxicab 30. 1 33. Thrust with a knife 35. Lawful 37. Insincere talk 40. Occult doctrine 41. Son of Abraham 42. Ulcerated chilblain 43. Abstract being 44. Dutch name of The Hague 46. Rabble 50. Meadow 51. Bone of the forearm 52. Notion 53. Indian dish 54. Close 55. Capital of Yemen DOWN 1. Sorrowful 2. Fuss 3. Covered vehicle 4. Develop 5. One that moves 6. Capital of Western Samoa 7. Vulgar, ill‐bred fellow 8. Chooses 9. Person used as

one’s excuse 10. Covered with hair 11. Informs 19. Sew 21. Exclamation of surprise 22. Unit of electrical resistance 23. Not 24. Upper limb 25. Weep 27. Label 29. Eccentric shaft 30. Wood sorrel 31. Naught 32. 7th letter of the Greek alphabet 33. Jamaican popular music 34. Chinese

warlord 35. Laboratory 36. Spain and Portugal 37. Shelter 38. Pale green mosslike lichen 39. Pertaining to

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 25.

the nose 40. Cheroot 42. Japanese syllabic script 45. Malt beverage 47. Find the sum of 48. Sum charged 49. Devoted follower

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26. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

News

LNP to be launched soon

PERSONS WISHING to change cell phone service provider without changing their numbers, will be able to do so in the coming days or week.

Telecoms operators in the Eastern Caribbean have agreed to implement Local Number Portability (LNP), and on November 6th , telecommunication companies FLOW and Digicel signed an agreement to activate LNP in SVG. Wayne Hull, Flow During a recent press Country (SVG) conference at FLOW Manager, is confident headquarters on Halifax that his company can Street, Country Manager at attract increased FLOW Wayne Hull made subscription because the announcement. of the quality of “So if you have a Digicel service it provides. number and you want to move to FLOW, you can bring that number over at FLOW and have a service activated at FLOW,” said Hull.

He said that the new system has already been tested, but there were minor issues that had to finalized, for example when dealing with international phone calls.

Nonetheless, Hull said that the service was expected to be launched by early December.

The coming on stream of LNP can also have a negative effect on FLOW if its customers decided to look the other way.

However, Hull is confident that FLOW stands the better chance of gaining more customers because the company has the better service.

He said, “We are not worried about that; we are confident that we have the better mobile network; we are confident that we have the better offers … and the changes that we have made to our mobile plan are going to be long term.. not just for Christmas. So we welcome the number portability and we know that we will attract more customers because of the fact that we have a faster and better mobile network.”

LNP is already available in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. It will be launched simultaneously across the five Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) countries - Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. (KH)

Gas down, diesel up AS OF MONDAY 19th November, vehicle owners would have noted that the price for their choice of petrol had either increased or decreased.

In the case of gasolene, consumers at the pumps (retail customers) were paying $12.83, a decrease over the previous $12.99 per gallon, as of Monday.

Those who use diesel, however, had to pluck out a few more cents. They are now paying $11.39 per gallon, an increase over the previous price of $10.98 per gallon.

The retail price of low-sulphur diesel has also gone up. It shows an increase of 50 cents from $11.00 to $11.50 per gallon.

The wholesale prices are as follows: gasolene now $12.13 from $12.29 per gallon; diesel $10.78 from $10.37 per gallon, and Low-Sulphur Diesel $10.89 from $10.39 per gallon.

The Director General of Finance and Planning issued a statement in relation to the price changes, explaining that the price changes which came into effect on Monday 19th November, “are in keeping with the latest three-month moving average Price Build-Up (PBU) for these products.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 27.

Repeat winners in Secondary Football Griffith (41st), accounted for Barrouallie’s goals.

Denzel Bascombe, who scored a brace in the 3rd and 60th minutes, and Lorenzo White in the 27th minute converted for the Grammar School.

The Barrouallie Secondary got to last Friday’s final with a 4-1 triumph over the Thomas Saunders Secondary in the semi-finals, while the St Vincent Grammar School had a 6-1 win over the Troumaca Secondary.

Georgetown Secondary School celebrate retaining the Senior Schools’ Football title.

Right: Dr JP Eustace had to settle for the runner-up spot in the Senior Division.

THE BARROUALLIE SECONDARY and the Georgetown Secondary Schools retained the Junior and Senior titles respectively, on Friday at the Campden Park Playing Field, as the InterSecondary Schools Championship came to an end.

Barrouallie’s win over the St Vincent Grammar School was emphatic, while Georgetown had to

Senior Final Unlike the Junior Division Final, it was end to end action in the Senior Division decider, as both finalists gave nothing away nor asked for any favours.

Terreson Joseph put the Georgetown Secondary ahead in the 16th minute of play, but his goal was cancelled out by Dillon Moore’s 40th minute strike.

Georgetown regained grind it out from the titles, beating the St the ascendancy in the penalty spot, in a highly Vincent Grammar 53rd minute through competitive final title School, 6-3.

Kadeem Duncan. But a Oryan Velox hit a hat- loss of concentration by match versus the Dr JP Eustace Memorial. trick (1st, 19th and 54th the Georgetown defence In the first of the minutes), with Jaheim in the 70th minute of the double finals, Barrouallie Charles (15th), Jomary match, resulted in Dr JP made it three straight Davis (21st) and Kamol Eustace being awarded

The Barrouallie Secondary School team- winners of the Junior Division. with a penalty, which Rahim Sam converted, to send the match into over-time.

Scores were still level at 2-2 at the end of the ten minutes of extra time, sending the final decision to be made at the The Barrouallie Secondary and penalty spot.

Dr JP Eustace Memorial Georgetown prevailed 3-2, thus battling it out at last Friday’s Senior Division Football keeping hold of Finals. the Senior title.

The winning spotlight, as there was teams and outstanding players, though, were not no Presentation and Closing Ceremony. given the normal

SVGFF boosting Female Football THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Football Federation (SVGFF) is moving towards boosting Women’s Football here.

At a recent Media

Khalil Cato

Conference held by the SVGFF, Tonicsia Baptiste, who is spearheading the SVGFF effort of getting more females involved in the sport, revealed that there is currently a recruitment drive through a Schools’ Programme.

“In an attempt to have more females actively engaged in the sport of Football, the SVGFF recently started a Schools’ Programme…

The Programme extends all across St Vincent, and we hope to get the Programme running in Bequia soon,” Baptiste said.

According to Baptiste, fourteen (14) schools are part of the Programme,

netting, in the process, in excess of 200 new players.

Those enrolled in the Programme will showcase their wares, when the SVGFF hosts a Female Schools’ Festival on December 8, from 9am to 3pm at Victoria Park.

Then on Saturday 15th December, the SVGFF will stage a Female Fun Day, involving matches among female teams along with fun activities, from 9 to 3pm, also at the Victoria Park.

Baptiste underscored that these activities are subsets of the wider development processes for St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Football.

aim is “to drive the face of Football in St Vincent and the Grenadines”.

In addition, Cato said, the Committee is tasked with increasing, “the awareness of Football related activities at a national level, through the Federation, as well as to increase the Marketing/ Media/ presence of the idea of Public Relations Football nationwide.”

At present, the Tonicsia Baptiste In other developments, Committee’s focus is The SVGFF, towards re- on the ongoing National Committee has also energising and reClub Championships, to conducted personal focusing its media arm, ensure that information development training of the Senior National Male has establishment a regarding the Marketing Committee. team and Under-20 Male championships gets out Khalil Cato, a member to the public via various outfit, with a view of the committee, toassisting them with media platforms. speaking at the Media their deportment and Cato noted that the Briefing, noted that the communication skills.

“It will soon be mandated (that) each Premier Division club across the country must have a (female) component, and as such, this Schools’ Programme should assist coaches and managers in the recruitment of players for their clubs”, Baptiste related.

V

28. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Last quarter netball victory for RSVGPF THE 2018 SVG NETBALL Association’s Firms/ Industrial Netball Tournament came to a fitting end last Friday evening, at the Kingstown Netball Centre.

The staging of the Knock Out Final between RSVG Police and Massy Stores provided an enthralling showdown for honours in the elimination competition.

Massy Stores took a marginal one goal lead, 11-10, at the end of the first quarter.

Another slender lead, 23-22, maintained Massy Stores’ ascendancy at the half.

Massy Stores then extended their margin to three goals, as

the third quarter finished 3330 in their favour.

But the fourth and final quarter saw a turnaround in the fortunes of the RSVG Police team.

Propelled by the vocal reinforcement members of the local constabulary, headed by Acting Commissioner of PoliceColin John, the RSVG Police team responded, to mute their opponents’ entourage.

When the final whistle was sounded, it was RSVG Police 45, Massy Stores 41.

It meant that RSVG Police, who had to settle for the second place in the League

The RSVG Police team pose for the camera after winning the Knock -Out Title.

Competition to the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture, would palm a piece of silverware after all.

Massy Massy Stores on the attack against RSVG Police last Friday evening in the Stores was Knock -Out Final of the Firms/ Industrial Netball Tournament. third in the League Competition.

Awards Copping the Most Outstanding Male Player award was RSVG Police’s Kenroy Martin.

Additionally, the Most Improved Player of each of the six competing teams in the Tournament, was recognised.

Damarius Browne, Most Outstanding Male Player who played in the Kenroy Martin (right) gets his Center and Wing award from Acting Defence positions, was RSVG Police’s recipient, Commissioner of Police- Colin John. with Kelvin Lorraine, receiving the award for Massy Stores. the award for her team, with Argyle International Jennifer St Hillaire — Benn, Airport Strikers’ Goal the awardee for Shooter- Shellisa Nanton got Demerara[RT1] Future Builders’.

The other recipients were Unica Velox, who played Wing Defence for the

Year Two DASGS: SVGCC Netball Queens YEAR TWO Division of Arts Sciences and General Studies (DASGS) last Friday at the Sion Hill Playing Field hard court, outdid Teacher Education to take the 2018 ECGC SVG Community InterDivisional Netball Competition.

The new champions led in all quarters: 8-1, 15-4, 25-5 and finally 3210.

Preceding the final, Police Youth Club defeated Year One Technical and Vocational Education 30-23 to cop the third place.

Before reaching the final, DASGS had swamped the Police

Youth Club 37-5 in their semifinals match up, with the Teacher Education getting past Year One Technical and Vocational Education, 2720.

Meanwhile, the plate final saw Year One Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies defeating Year Two Technical and Vocational Education 14-10.

Awards

Simone Richardson (right) of the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture, accepts the League winners’ trophy and medals from First VicePresident of the SVG Netball Association- Natasha Stapleton.

Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture, and Robert Robinson, who wore the bibs of Center and Wing Defence for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Bascombe to lead U-15 cricket team

MVP of the TournamentNerissa Delpesche (right) accepts her reward from Makeda Fredericks-Smith, Marketing Officer of ECGC.

Jessica Lavia (right), Best Shooter, is rewarded by Makeda Fredericks-Smith, ECGC’s Marketing Officer.

Copping the Most Valuable Player of the Final award was Calisha Velox of Year Two of DRASGS, with Nerissa Delpesche of the same year and Division, adjudged the Year TWO DASGS netball team poses with officials of ECGC after winning the 2018 SVGCC Netball Title.

competition’s overall Most Valuable Player.

Another award was pouched by the winners, as Jomarie Quashie got the nod as the Best Defensive player in the competition.

The two other awards handed out at last Friday’s Closing Ceremony, went to the Teacher Education players - Jessica Lavia and Purlan Douglas.

Lavia registered the Most Goals, 71, while Douglas got the award of Best Mid- Court Player.

SOLOMON BASCOMBE has been apppointed captain of the National Under-15 Cricket Team. He will lead the team in the Windward Islands Under-15 Tournament to be held in St Lucia from December 9-18.

Bascombe will have the Windward Islands off spinner Luke Wilson as his deputy.

The full squad reads.

Solomon Bascombe (captain), Luke Wilson (vice-captain), Joe Williams, Rashawn Lewis Solomon (wicket keeper), Kirtney Bascombe – Franklyn, Kodi Grant, Jazad captain of the Farrell, Devante McDowall, Kammanie Hunbands, Oryan National Under15 Cricket Team.

Velox, Mario Baptiste, Ian Gonsalves, Raynolly Hillocks.

The reserves are Luke Browne, Aysas Stapleton, Mathew Fredricks, Kelvin James, Deshrne Clarke, Bowin Cain, Javon Richardson Samuel Holder will manage the team with Bertrum Stapleton as head coach and Kenroy Martin as the assistant coach.

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 29.

Sports

Commonwealth and rare poverty EFFORTS are afoot for inclusion of a Women’s T/20 Cricket competition in the 2022 Commonwealth Games scheduled for Birmingham, England.

The proposal is advanced and endorsed by the England Cricket Board.

The Commonwealth Games Federation will make the final decision by September 2019, according to the Cricinfo website.

The eight top teams will be eligible for the final. The bone of contention will be how to categorise the West Indies. A compromise is being mooted whereby the administrators nominate one country from the region.

Given the dynamics of regional politics, Cricket West Indies will have to come up with an innovative manner of handling the matter. They may resort to a regional competition so that the winner fills the void.

Suppose they opt for the franchise pattern, teams will be able to contract players from within the pool.

The International Cricket Council has taken the step in an effort to broaden the appeal of women’s cricket. They contend that the Commonwealth is a platform for promoting the sport.

Prospects of Commonwealth gold medals send shrills of excitement from participants. How the regional participation plays out makes for some interesting times in women’s cricket.

The initiative comes on the heels of the completion of the Women’s T/20 World Cup. West Indies fans were denied the ultimate spectacle of the home team in the final. Some disgruntled regional supporters, peeved by the performance of the male team, were suggesting that we recall the men and replace them with the women.

Cricket is a patient game, and we know of its prospects. One knows that adjustability and flexibility are the order of the day. There is need for self-assuredness without being arrogant.

Doubts must be erased, and the determination has to be distinguished as to how one goes about the duty.

If you are not up to the standard, you have to work out your strategy. Once you are serious about your programme, steps must be taken to prepare you.

It is interesting to see how that matter and the Caribbean representation at the Commonwealth Games transpire. Perhaps it has sealed and spelt out in the progress of time.

The West Indies men have to rebounding Bangladesh. That capitulation in the second innings has driven some fans further away from the crowd.

Congratulations to Sunil Ambries. His batting stood out in a pathetic display by the team.

Ambris must have heeded some valuable advice that he put into practice. His innings was one of calm assurances in the midst of a breakdown around him.

At 75 for 8, West Indies was in danger of falling for under 100. With Jomel Warrican adjusting to the saddle and producing his best knock so far, the partnership flourished and the 63 runs they added were sufficient to instil some level of anxiety in the Bangladeshi squad.

Warrican’s dismissal ended the resistance, for with Shannon Gabriel not even getting an opportunity to make an impact, Ambris was sent marching when replays showed that the ball was far from the bat.

Ambris asked for a review, but there was none.

Situations like those bring into question the competency of umpires. With television cameras in full zoom, those on the sporting arena must be aware of their actions.

It can’t be business as usual. Reservations must be made to deal with umpires whose decisions prove to be wrong.

The way players are fined for violations, umpires should be handled in similar fashion.

Snagg takes silver in BIIG Squash Championships VINCENTIAN JULES SNAGG had to settle for the runner-up spot in the Men’s Singles of the Squash component of the Barbados Independence Invitational Games (BIIG), which took place recently at the Barbados Squash Club, Marine Gardens.

Snagg came through the preliminary rounds unscathed, disposing of all who came up before him.

After receiving a first round bye, Snagg ousted Darien Benn of Barbados, 11/6, 12/10, 11/3, then humbled Mark Sealey, also of Barbados, 11/4, 11/3, 11/8, in the quarter finals.

His semi- final opponent was Barbadian Stewart St John, whom he outlasted 11/9, 11/4, 13/11, to set up a showdown for the title against Shawn Simpson of Barbados.

However, Snagg could not overcome Simpson, and was defeated in straight sets, 11/8, 12/10, 11/8.

Apart from Snagg, two other Vincentians, Othniel Bailey and Ceron Padmore, also participated in the tournament.

Bailey’s run got him to the quarter-finals, where he lost to Barbadian, Stewart St John, 2/11, 3/11, 4/11.

In Bailey’s first match, he won over Alex Stewart of the host nation, 11/3, 11/2, 11/1.

Padmore, though, lost both matches to Daniel Jordan and Zachariah Naitram, both of Barbados.

Jordan beat Padmore, 11/8, 11/2, 6/11, 11/4, while Naitram had an 11/5, 11/5, 11/5 , win over Padmore.

This weekend will be the turn

of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Junior team, which will contest the Hilton Barbados Junior World Open Circuit Event.

The seven selectees are Dru Samuel, Roshawn Jules Snagg Paul, Jayden George, Jaydon Williams, Jada Ross, Nadira Morgan and Ciara George.

Kevin Hannaway travels as the team’s Coach.

Stapleton pleased with teamÊs composition BERTRAM STAPLETON, Head Coach of the National Under-15 Cricket Team to compete in the Windward Islands Under-15 tournament to be staged from Dec. 9 — 18, is satisfied with the

composition of the team.

This has boosted his confidence in the team’s ability to win this year’s tournament.

“We have four guys from last year and five who were in the reserves. Luke Wilson, the vicecaptain of the team, made the Windward Islands Under-15 team last year, hence the team this year has some experience. The new guys have a lot of potential; I am expecting good things from them.”

The former Windward Islands batsman said that, once the lads

maintain their mindset, they will do well.

“We came Bertrum Stapleton, in third last Head Coach of year, which shows we are SVG U-15 team, is pleased with his a team on Rashawn Lewis the up when team’s all-round is expect to you compare compostion. carry his the (batting) form performaces in previous years. I into the am anticipating much of the same tournament. if not better results this year,” Stapleton added.

The Head Coach described the team as an all-round team, with everyone expected to THE QUARTER finalists of the 2018 At the end of the preliminary contribute to the overall SVG Masters 20/20 Cricket round, the points standings were as effort.

Competition have been decided. follows: Zone A - North East 22, He, however, made They are North East Masters, P’tani and Glamorgan 20, Stubbs 16, special mention of North Leeward Masters, Mustique Bequia 14, North Windward 10, Company Masters, Stanley Browne’s Marriaqua 8 and Kirk DaSilva’s Croix batsman Rashawn Lewis who has come a long way Stubbs Masters, A R & G Trucking 2; Zone B - . Mustique Company 24, since the last P’tani Masters, RSVG Police Masters, Belfongo 16, RSVG Police and North tournament.

Computec Belfongo Masters, Digicel Leeward 12, Pastures and Sion Hill “Rashawn is a much Glamorgan Masters.

10, Rudy’s Electrical Barrouallie 0. improved batsman - he In one of the matches in the final Quarter finals begin this Saturday round of preliminary matches at with Belfongo Masters up against scored 65, 76, 102 not Arnos Vale 2, on Sunday, Glamorgan Glamorgan Masters at Buccament out and 77 in the Masters defeated Davis Construction from 1:30 p.m, and North East practise matches. He is Bequia Masters by 8 wickets. Scores: Masters against North Leeward a bright prospect, one of Bequia Masters 132 off 19.1 overs Masters at Arnos Vale 2 from 1.30 the upcoming batsmen to Daniel 30, McNeil Morgan took 2 for pm. keep an eye on for the 10; Glamorgan 133 for 2 off 19.1 On Sunday, Mustique Company future. His contribution overs, McNeil Morgan led with 60.

Masters oppose Stubbs Masters at will be integral to the In the only other preliminary Arnos Vale 2. from 1:30 pm and P’tani team’s performance. match also at Arnos Vale 2, Joseph Masters take on RSVG Police Masters Once he maintains his DaSilva’s Sr Memorial Funeral Home at Buccament at 1:30 pm. good form, I think that North Leeward Masters defeated Sion The semi-finals are scheduled for the SVG U-15 team this Hill Masters by 5 wickets. Scores: Saturday, December 8th, with the year has a very good Sion Hill 154 for 9 off 20 overs final and presentation ceremony set chance to win the Michael Duncan 33, Edgerton for Sunday, December 9th, at a venue tournament,” Stapleton Medford 33 not out, Donovan Mason 3 to be announced. reiterated. for 32; North Leeward Masters 158 for 5 off 18 overs, Leon Samuel 56.

I.B.A.ALLEN I.B.A.ALLEN

SVG Masters into final eight

30. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018. 31.

Classifieds

Single airline passenger security check for CARICOM ELEVEN YEARS ago, The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) claimed to have successfully implemented a single security check initiative during the region’s hosting of the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2007. There followed a long pause in that arrangement, and intra-region travellers making transit stops were required to go through security checks until

reaching their final destination. That arrangement remains intact.

Now, November 2018, CARICOM is seeking to re-introduce the single security check for direct transit passengers on multi-stop intracommunity flights.

CARICOM SecretaryGeneral, Irwin LaRocque, speaking at the opening of the

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Air Transport Conference on November 21, 2018 at the Guyana Conference Centre, said that work will soon commence on the development of a regional policy, through which the single security

check would enhance travellers’ experience in the region and minimise inconvenience.

He acknowledged that this will no doubt be “a welcome initiative for regional travellers.”

He said the actions CARICOM has been taking with respect to Aviation Safety and Security were not limited to its domestic situation,

but was also in pursuit of enhancing global transportation links with the consequent benefit to the regional tourism product.

In this regard, he said a consultancy has been launched to formulate a regional airlift policy and strategy, with technical reviews, analytical work, along with stakeholder consultations in member

HARRY JOSEPH NICHOLAS

ANN MARIE WILLIAMS

THEOPHILUS SHOY

Kingstown SDA Church Sunday 25th November, 2018 Service: 2:00 p.m.

Kingstown Methodist Church Monday 26th November, 2018 Service: 3:00 p.m.

The St. Patrick Anglican Church Saturday 24th November, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:30 p.m.

CHRISTOPHER KENROY POPE

IRENE WILLIAMS

Christopher Kenroy Pope Langley Park, Georgetown Saturday 24th November, 2018 Service: 3:00 p.m.

Glad Tiding Tabernacle Saturday 24th November, 2018 Service: 2:30 p.m.

WALTER POMPEY St. Michael’s Spiritual Baptist Church Richland Park Saturday 24th November, 2018 Viewing: 1:00 p.m.

Service: 2:00 p.m.

states already undertaken.

The objective of the regional airlift policy and strategy, LaRocque said, is to harmonise aviation policies in the Community and support the expansion of the tourism sector as a major contributor to the sustainable growth of member states. (Source: caricom.org)

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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FROM SCOTIABANK TO REPUBLIC BANK ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES is among nine Caribbean countries from which the Torontobased Scotiabank is set to withdraw.

The others affected are: Guyana, St Maarten, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia.

Information circulating on major news networks and Caribbean news agencies earlier this week, reported the decision, and that, subject to regulatory approval, those nine Scotiabank operations will be acquired by Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), for US$123 million.

RFHL, among other concerns, operates Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago and the Republic Group’s boasts a total asset base

of US$10.5 billion as of September 30, 2018.

Since the announcement, RFHL’s Chairman Ronald F. deC. Harford said the acquisition represented another major milestone for the Republic Group.

“As we grow and acquire significant positions in our existing markets, it is important that we continue to broaden our footprint, regionally and internationally. This agreement, which is subject to all regulatory approvals, affords us the opportunity to reach more clients in the Eastern Caribbean and Guyana,…. We are confident that our expanded presence or entrance in those markets will redound to the benefit of Scotiabank’s clients and employees as well as Republic’s existing stakeholders”, Harford

Scotiabank, which has operated in the Caribbean since 1889, says it plans to refocus its business in the region by selling a number of insurance and banking operations. (Source: Bloomberg)

Scotiabank opened its St. Vincent branch in Kingstown in 1977, in the St. Vincent Building and Loan Society Building. It is now housed (as pictured) in the Singer Building. said.

Scotiabank announced that, as part of the proposed agreement (of sale), employees of Scotiabank in the nine countries will join the Republic Group.

Efforts to confirm this and to ascertain whether there were any other or different offers made to employees here, proved futile up to press time Wednesday.

Suffice it to say, Scotiabank, in a release, said it was committed to working closely with RFHL … “to provide the smoothest transition possible for all customers and employees.”

Reaction to sale

Since Scotiabank’s announcement, Antigua Prime Minister Gaston Browne has been quickest to retort. In a letter on Tuesday to Suzan Snaggs-Wilson, General Manager of the Scotiabank there, he warned that it needed to apply to the government for approval for divestment, and that such divestment should be offered first to local banks.

Browne wrote, inter alia, “On behalf of my Government, I advise that I am deeply disappointed that the authorities of the Bank of Nova Scotia would decide to sell its operations in Antigua and Barbuda without

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

any form of consultation with the regulators of the Finance Ministry, whose agreement and authority for such a sale are required by law.

“I am further deeply concerned that the Bank of Nova Scotia would spring such an important decision on the people of Antigua and Barbuda, particularly its many clients who have displayed great loyalty to the bank for almost 50 years, providing it with significant profits. “…I hereby inform the authorities of the Bank of Nova Scotia, through you, that their decision to sell the operations in Antigua and Barbuda, without the requisite consultation and

agreement of the regulators and the Government…is unacceptable.”

The Guyana Government, in a statement, said the agreement “raises a number of issues for the banking sector in Guyana and for the public which the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Guyana and the Government of Guyana will need to carefully consider”.

Scotiabank, with declared earnings of $2.27 billion for the three months ended Oct 31, has been present in the Caribbean market for well over a hundred years.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.