THE VINCENTIAN PDF - 31-01-20

FRIDAY,

JANUARY 31, 2020

VOLUME 114, No.05

Laying Sir Frederick to rest Pages 19-26

www.thevincentian.com

Illness delays Black Sands Page 3

No $$$ for Child Justice Act Page 9

EC$1.50

From RRL to YLM Page 31

A special coffin maker Page 40

2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 3.

News 3 Aggregate shortage, a real issue

THE AVAILABILITY OF AGGREGATE for use by the asphalt plat(s), is causing a serious setback to the progress of the road works programme in the country.

Further setback is anticipated, given the challenges surrounding the location of an asphalt plane in the Gibson Corner area, and the delay occasioned by the process of identifying an alternate location.

This was the scenario outlined

by Minister of Transport and Works, Senator Julian Francis as he addressed the House of Assembly on January 22.

Francis explained further that there was a shortage of the commodity throughout the region, with Dominica and Grenada being among those similarly affected.

Moves are afoot, Francis said, to import from suppliers in Nova

Scotia or Georgia.

“But we have to import some aggregate in the meantime to kick start this developmental programme … all these hotels to be built, all these roads to be repaired,” he told the House of Assembly.

Two million dollars had been allocated in the 2020 budget to facilitate this purchase, the minister said, and explained to the Members that aggregate for Senator Julian Francis, Minister use in the mix with asphalt was of Works, was at pains to explain different from that used in why the implementation of road construction. improvement programmes were He said that government being delayed. needed to get involved in the production of aggregate for spoken out against the latter. asphalt, and that there were two “We have everything else, but plants to be set up, one in it’s the aggregate,” he said. (DD) Richmond and other in Kingstown, but residents have

Incomplete villas at the Peter’s Hope Black Sands Resort. (Facebook photo – Jan. 2020)

Minister gives account of NLA gross revenue

PRIZES AND EXPENSES ACCOUNTED for 55 percent of the total gross earnings of the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) for the financial year August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019. Total gross earnings/sales of the NLA for the period amounted to EC$68,881,785.

All of this was disclosed by Minister of Finance Camillo Gonsalves in response to a question by the Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday, at the January 22 sitting of the House of Parliament.

Of this, Gonsalves said that 76 percent went towards direct expenses, with EC$37.9 million being paid out in prizes and expenses, management fees accounted for 10 percent or EC$6.9 million; agents’ commission Development, the — 8 percent or EC$5.5 million, and company undertaking other direct expenses accounted for the investment at EC$2 million, for a total of Peter’s Hope, had EC$52,350,000. purchased 36 acres of Gonsalves gave a breakdown of land on the Peter’s the remaining EC$16.5 million, Hope estate for EC$7 saying that approximately EC$4.8 million, for the million went toward administrative purpose of developing expenses; EC$9 million went a tourist-related toward the contribution and project. support of numerous projects, with The project, named the primary one being Carnival Black Sands Resort, which he said accounted for EC$3.1 was originally million. designed to include Other activities where the NLA the construction of 40 made contributions include Intervillas (ten in the first School Sports, the National Sports phase of the Council, and other sporting construction), activities including cricket, netball, followed by swimming, athletics, football, construction of a 350- tennis, fishing, gymnastics, squash, room hotel in two motor sports, cycling, basketball phases. and other sporting activities, At a groundamounting to EC$907,000. breaking ceremony in Funds were also allocated to February 2017, the playing field expenses and investors indicated educational and medical costs. that the project A number of projects received would be complete in funding from the NLA, including 24 to 30 months. the Union Island hard court Given the delays rehabilitation project, the and what is already on the construction of the Choppins hard ground, it seems unlikely court complex, the London playing that the Resort will be ready field pavilion, the Villa tennis to accommodate guest by facility, the Chili playing field and year end, though the the Fairhall hard court, as well as Minister of Tourism Cecil Mc the maintenance of existing Kie is optimistic that some projects that are under the degree of readiness will be supervision of the NLA, Gonsalves effected in five months, i.e. said. (DD) July. (KH)

Illness causes delay at Black Sands

THE DELAY IN CONSTRUCTION at the Black Sands Resort in Peter’s Hope was due mainly to the fact that the person in charge of overseeing the project fell ill.

This was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves while speaking on the Wake-Up morning radio

programme on Xtreme FM, on Thursday 23.

According to the Prime Minister, there was a break in construction in midDecember, and the principals of the Company overseeing the construction left for Canada on December 12/13. .

Dr. Gonsalves added that it was his understanding

that the person in command fell ill while in Canada, thereby delaying his return and recommencement of work at the Peter’s Hope site.

It was the Prime Minister’s anticipation that work would recommence by the last week of January.

Canadian firm PACE

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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

First female DPP appointed Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS THIS COUNTRY has got it first female Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves during a call-in Sejilla McDowall now enjoys a significant place in this country’s history.

programme on WeFM morning programme last Sunday, mentioned that Sejilla McDowall was appointed DPP. She had been acting in that capacity since Colin Williams retiredfrom the position in 2018, to take up duties as High Court Judge in Belize.

McDowall’s position was confirmed by Chief Justice of

the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Janice Periera at the request of this country’s Attorney General Jaundy Martin.

When contacted for a comment on Monday, she told THE VINCENTIAN, “I haven’t gathered my thoughts as yet!”

McDowall was called to the

local bar about ten years ago, and worked in the DPP’s Office as Crown Counsel before being appointed to act as DPP in 2018.

She is the daughter of former Assistant Commissioner of Police and Head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Ekron Lockhart.

Drug Squad veteran replaced. “Don’t pre-judge,” ÂNothing unusualÊ, says CoP Judge warns COMMISSIONER of Police Colin John has denied that the removal of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Foster Scott and Corporal Lafleur Williams from the Narcotics Unit, commonly called the Drug Squad, had anything to do with the recent destruction of a marijuana farm at Richmond Vale by the police.

According to the Commissioner, there was nothing unusual about administrative changes and transfers in the Police Force.

ASP Scott was attached to the Narcotics Unit for approximately 26 of his 27 years as a police officer, and headed that Unit for close to seven years. He has been replaced by veteran detective ASP Hesran Ballantyne, effective as of last week Thursday.

Scott is now second-incommand of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the position Ballantyne held prior to his recent reassignment.

Ballantyne had been attached to CID for more than 20 years,

and acted as CID Chief for just over a year when then CID Chief Ruth Jacobs went on preretirement leave about two years ago.

That Department is headed by Superintendent Clouston Francis.

Corporal Lafleur Williams has been sent back to the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) where she had been attached prior to her stint with the Narcotics Unit.

Scott and Williams’ reassignments have sparked widespread public debate, and it is speculated in some circles that the development was linked to the January 14 police raid as referenced earlier.

But the Commissioner told THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, “From time to time, there would be administrative changes and transfers in the Police Force, and this is just one of those changes.”

The top cop added that there were also other recent changes in other departments of the constabulary.

John had told THE VINCENTIAN January 16, that the Richmond Vale raid was not authorized by the hierarchy of the Police Force.

He had assured that measures would be taken to ensure that a report would be submitted, as to why it was done, as there is a governmental policy of tolerance in place with regard to marijuana cultivation, during this period, when a marijuana amnesty is soon to be triggered.

This policy was discussed at a meeting of all senior police officers, and should have been filtered down to all police officers.

When asked on Tuesday whether any report was submitted, John said some reports were submitted and the matter was being investigated. He, however, denied that Scott’s replacement or any of the other changes were connected to the investigation.

Grenadian granted bail on money laundering charge A GRENADIAN national, who appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday on a money laundering charge, was granted bail despite objections from the prosecution.

Christopher Joseph, 46, is charged with having in his possession criminal property, to wit EC$10,880 and US$20 which he knew or suspected, whole or in part, directly or indirectly, represent the proceeds of criminal conduct.

Joseph pleaded not guilty to the charge before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne, and was granted $4,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he report to the Calliaqua Police Station every Monday and Thursday. He will return to Court March 5.

In objecting to bail earlier, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche began with a line from a former local calypso monarch Grantley ‘Ipa’ Constance’s calypso, “One Caribbean nation”.

Delpleche added, his own lines,

saying, “but different territories.

We are all sovereign nations.”

The Prosecutor said his objection to bail was on the basis that Joseph was considered a flight risk.

But Joseph’s lawyer Grant Connell argued that former proprietor of the Buccament Bay Resort, David Ames owed the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines millions of dollars, but was not considered a flight risk.

Connell noted that his client had a girlfriend here, and had come to buy fish.

“So, because he is Rasta, and has $11,000 on him, he came to buy ganja. So what, that’s our chief crop,” Connell queried.

“Where is his girlfriend living?” the Magistrate asked, to which Connell replied, “Revierre.”

Connell pointed out that, “Grenada is right there, and you know we will send our police for him, just like how Grenada sends their police.

“If he was caucasian, this

would not happen. I am so glad that the Governor General bury in a breadfruit wood box. It would help us to get rid of breadfruit mentality.

“I must go to the funeral this afternoon. One of the richest men in St. Vincent and the Grenadines bury in a breadfruit wood box.”

The prosecutor noted that a removal order was made for Joseph when he initially appeared before the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

But Connell argued that the criminal charge was brought after, and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) may have applied for the forfeiture of the money.

Connell said that if the defendant was removed from these shores, he would have to seek permission to re-enter the state to challenge the application.

The Magistrate said she was mindful to grant bail, but the removal order would have to take effect after the matter was disposed of.

JUSTICE Angelica Teelucksingh, a national of Trinidad and Tobago who is here to assist with reducing the backlog of cases before the Assizes, has warned jurors not to pre-judge matters.

The Judge, who took up duties at the new Criminal Court inside the Marcole Plaza, Kingstown, told the Jurors, “Leave your prejudices behind; leave Justice Angelica all sorts of emotions outside the court room.

Teelucksingh laud Come to a verdict on the down the ‘law’ as it basis of the evidence of applied jurors. the case.

“Don’t pre-judge the case on the basis of what you read in the newspapers or what you hear outside. You are here to deal with the evidence, and that part of the evidence which you deem to be true will constitute the facts in the case.”

Justice Teelucksingh stressed the significant role jurors play in the development of their country.

The Judge pointed out that it is their opportunity to decide, based on the evidence of the cases, how they want their country to be run.

Jamaican pleads guilty to ganja possession A JAMAICAN national, who is facing charges of possession, trafficking and attempting to export marijuana from these shores, returns to the Serious Offences Court today (Friday).

Novian Travis Vaught-Mullins is charged in connection with the seizure of 30 pounds of marijuana at the Argyle International Airport on July 28, 2019. He is accused of possession with intent to supply, possession for the purpose of drug trafficking, and attempting to export the drug.

When the 29-year-old mechanic of Kingston, Jamaica, returned to the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday, he pleaded guilty to the charge of possession, but maintained his innocence on the others.

The matter was adjourned to today after Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the Court that he would have to discuss the way forward, in relation to the case, with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The Jamaican, who is represented by Attorney Grant Connell, had initially pleaded not guilty to all three charges.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 5.

News

‘No suggestion of negligence,’ Prime Minister PRIME MINISTER Ralph Gonsalves said that he has not seen any evidence of negligence that could have resulted in the death of a Pole Yard man while he was a patient at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.

He, however, announced that a medical review would be carried out in relation to the death.

Arnott Hope, a fisherman from Pole Yard, was shot in the groin area at his home on December 27, 2019. He was taken to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) where he underwent surgery.

He showed no adverse signs after the surgery, his family said, but he died a day later.

Hope’s family has since retained the services of Attorney Israel Bruce, since there was some indication that a pair of forceps (scissors-like instrument) was left in the man’s body, and that it may have played a role in his death.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday 21st at Cabinet Room, the Prime Minister noted that there were some questions raised about the management of a patient at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. However, when he inquired, there was no suggestion that there was any negligence in relation to the matter.

Notwithstanding that preliminary finding, he asked the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Simone Keizer-Beache, to discuss the matter with professionals in the Ministry of Health.

The service of a Professor of Surgery - Dr Vijay Naraynsingh from Trinidad - has been engaged to assist with a full review.

“There is no suggestion of

Arnott Hope, deceased, remains at the centre of an ongoing inquiry into a surgical procedure carried out at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. negligence by those in the medical system here ….. but it is important, given what was said to me, that I asked for a full report …. I raised the question as to whether or not this patient received the optimal care from the time the patient arrived to the moment of his demise, and the answers to those queries can only come through an independent review,” said Gonsalves.

“I know we had a big launch of the Patients’ Charter of Rights and Responsibilities….. well if this is the first case in which we are going to have a review, so be it,” he commented. (KH)

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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Energy

Optimism surrounds geothermal project THE TESTED temperatures at the three drilling sites of the Geothermal Project here are adequate for geothermal power.

This assurance was given by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves during the last session of Parliament, in response to a question by Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, Daniel Cummings.

In his response, Gonsalves explained that as of December 31, 2019, there were three wells - SVG01, SVG02 and SVG03 - and the amount spent so far was US$32.94 million.

Drilling at SVG01, April to July 2019, went to a depth of 2700 metres, but the well was proved unstable at 1880 to 1890 metres and collapsed, the PM reported.

The temperature results from this site, though, reached 105 degrees Celsius.

At the second site, SVG02, which was worked on between August and October 2019, the same challenges as the first site developed at 2800 metres and it too collapsed.

Temperatures of 220 degrees Celsius were recorded at this site and,

according to Dr. Gonsalves, the planned action is for continued stimulation with increased pressure to open fractures and increase flow capacity.

And at the third site, SVG03, which was conducted between November 2019 and January 15, 2020, similar permeability challenges developed at 2990 meteres — however the temperatures recorded measured 230 degrees Celsius and were calculated to go as high as 250 degrees.

Going forward, Gonsalves said that the rig will be relocated to SVG01 where work will be done to rectify the collapsed well by sidetracking.

Given the success of stimulation at SVG01, it is expected that the rig will be moved to SVG03 where the procedure will be done again using the packer, and further stimulation will commence following the work on SVG03 if that is deemed successful.

Following the well testing, which is expected to be done in July this year, the well capacity will be known and the economic analysis updated, Gonsalves said. (DD)

The Geothermal Project is all part of government’s thrust towards increased exploitation of renewal energy sources.

VINLEC advances its SOLAR projects St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) continues to capitalise on opportunities to implement alternative energy solutions and efficient utilisation of resources for electricity generation.

The latest initiative is a car park canopy constructed at the Cane Hall Engineering Complex. The canopy, which has solar panels installed at the top of the structure, serves as a shaded area for vehicles, while simultaneously converting the sun’s energy into electricity. Solar panels were also installed on the roofs of the Transformer and Backup Generator sheds on the compound.

According to Engineer in Training Mr Raheem Hall, a total of one hundred and fourteen (114) solar panels, each capable of producing 325 watts, were installed - eighty-eight on the carport and twenty-six on the adjacent generator and transformer building. The total (alternating current) AC power output of the system is 30 kilowatts, with a peak of 33 kilowatts.

This addition of solar panels has the capacity to produce 60,000 kilowatt-hours (units) per year. It is anticipated that this amount of power will reduce the use of fuel for the generation of electricity by approximately 3,272 imperial gallons annually. This installed capacity of solar can supply an estimated thirtyfive average-sized homes in St. Vincent with electricity for twelve months. For reference, the average monthly consumption for a domestic customer is approximately 141 units.

Mr Hall says the system is a gridtied solar system, which simply

means that it is connected to VINLEC’s electrical network. He noted that it was commissioned on Saturday, December 28th, 2019, and as of January 20th, 2020 produced 3806 units. The average daily production up to January 20th, 2020 was 163 units.

All designs, equipment procurement and installation for the PV aspect of project were done inhouse, in accordance with the Company’s mandate to build in-house capacity.

VINLEC’s initial solar energy project was launched in February 2010 with the commissioning of the Cane Hall Engineering Complex solar power system. This project was expanded in 2013, with the energising of a system on the Stores Building at Cane Hall.

The Company also has solar systems at the Lowmans Bay and Union Island Power Stations. Work on the Mayreau Microgrid Solar Project is in the final phase. Upon its completion, the island will become the second Grenadine island to have a solar/battery/diesel microgrid system; Union Island was the first, with the system there being commissioned in 2019.

VINLEC is planning to upgrade its first experimental solar system at the Cane Hall Engineering Complex to at least four times its present size.

Recently purchased equipment, including a pyranometer and light sensor logger, will facilitate on-going work to determine the best location for further PV development. (Source: VINLEC)

The car port (foreground) and the Stores Building (background) at the VINLEC Cane Hall operating base, showing roofs covered with solar panels.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 7.

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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

NLA pillars rearranged COULD SOMEONE PLEASE REMIND the Unity Labour Party about the original purposes for which the National Lottery was established?

And while we are at it, could that someone also please remind the Board of Directors of what is now the National Lotteries Authority (NLA) about these said pillars of foundation?

When we hear about how the NLA grossed near EC$70 million for the period August 1, 2018 to July 31, 2019, one is heartened since we expect that the greater percentage of the retained earnings will go towards the advancement of sports and culture; and that these investments will rebound in favour of the country as a whole and not to some partisan agenda.

It does not, given what the Minister of Finance disclosed in parliament recently; that this is so, or if it is, it is deliberately biased in terms of sports, which offer the window of construction of infra-structural support (playing fields, etc.) which translate in more favourable gain at the end of the five-year run.

Culture, on the other hand, its value measured in less tangible but much moreso in aesthetic terms, offers a perceived smaller and less impacting return at the end of the five-year run.

There’s no disputing that the NLA is a behemoth supported and protected by legislation, which gives it total purview over all games of chance - a polished way of saying gambling.

And in the circumstance, there remains a fundamental question: How much of the retained earnings goes back directly to the small community groups — e.g. the village cricket team, a social and cultural group, a group of environment activists - that have been shoved out of the games of chance market?

No longer does the average adult Vincentian, including low income earners, give that loose $5.00 to a community or charitable cause, save and except may be the annual Salvation Army Kettle Appeal. Would the Lottery think about offsetting what might have

been lost by these community, village based social/charitable groups having recognized the impact it has had on the psyche of the average Vincentian?

The overwhelming purview accorded the NLA by the legislations on which it currently sits, makes it an obvious first stop by sport and cultural groups in this country — whether those be National Organisations or community-based groups.

The ‘nuisance’ of having to respond to all and sundry, is a consequence of its own making as it wields authority/influence over sporting facilities and cultural festivals.

And on the note of Festivals, isn’t it worrisome that, given the national thrust towards building a Festival Tourism niche— Carnival, Nine Mornings, Bequia Music Fest, Easter Regatta, Blues fest — that so little — comparatively speaking - is accorded to this area?

According to the Minister of Finance, Carnival and carnivalrelated activities during the NLA fiscal year July 2018 to August 2019, were accorded assistance to the tune of $3 million.

A few days after this revelation, the Prime Minister alluded to having requested some EC$5 million from the NLA for the construction phase of the Diamonds Athletic Track.

So, when they say “we have to look for the money to do this and that,” remember that money comes from the citizenry - it is our money.

Like the fact that carnival was to be a major recipient of the Lottery’s returns, followed closely by sports, with an amount also set aside for the Hospital. If Bertram ‘Molly’ Arthur were able of mind and body, he would attest to the Lottery being originally established to serve Carnival, Sport and the Hospital in that order. Somewhere in time, those pillars seemed to have been rearranged.

It’s time to give culture (carnival moreso) its originally designed share of the NLA earnings.

Sir Frederick Ballantyne is third from right in the back row, while Dr. Kenneth John is seated second from left in the front row.

Dr. Frederick Nathaniel Ballantyne has left us AS PRONOUNCED by ‘Lawd Hawk’, Freddie Ballantyne pitched his camp in the “Slum”. Freddie went to the great beyond sometime last week, not only a hero but a very virtuous, quiet and gentle person, although in fact he was a Governor General with all sorts of degrees and personal wealth and could, if he wanted to, throw his weight around.

But in the words of saintly Monty Maule, who preached at his funeral, he died a saint.

I have known Freddie for about 70 years all together. I attended the Grammar School in 1948 and Freddie in 1947, a year before me and in age as well.

Somehow we gravitated towards each other. In a few years time, he got his driver’s licence so he drove his mother’s bus ‘Lady Olivia’ to school, to take the pupils who had to go out on some occasions, with me as the co-pliot sitting next to him and no other. One such occasion was the funeral of ND McPherson Jack of Arnos Vale, who had died suddenly of a heart attack. Perhaps who knows, this was where Freddie’s interest in cardiology began. Soon to follow was the funeral of Vibert Stephens,

a brilliant student from the Stephens family in Ratho Mill, who suddenly died in the prime of his life. We took Freddie’s bus, partly because the Stephens family was close to the Balantyne family.

For some time, Freddie and I were associated in acting plays in school or in our forms. ‘If Music is the Food of Life Play On’ was one of them; another was ‘A Mid Summer’s Night Dream’ where I played a female. In fact, for some strange reason, I found myself acting as a female in about 3 plays, including classic John Milton’s ‘Comus’ in which I had to say some powerful lines.

Our cultural activities at school were then managed by a brilliant classical master, AW Blackett. When rehearsing, a circle of students gathered along the hall. I learned to play Bridge and Skittles Continued on Page 33.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 9.

Arts/Festivals

Bequia Musicfest 2020: On the go!

LAST WEDNESDAY, January 29 was opening night of much- anticipated and highly acclaimed Bequia Mount Gay Musicfest 2020 – the Bequia Tourism Association’s live five-day long annual entertainment Festival running from January 29th to February 2nd.

Some 130 musicians from SVG, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, Martinique, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Marten, the UK, Canada and SVG were down to perform in six events in five days.

Original and unique World Beat Soca vocalist Olatunji out of Trinidad, headlines the Saturday Fete Night at De Reef in Lower Bay, as well as Barbados’ Hypasounds, and SVG’s Jamesy P and Chewalee backed by our own K-netik.

Jazz great Ronald ‘Boo’ Hinkson out of St. Lucia

GBK of Martinique was expected to bring their special touch to Saturday’s ‘Live Music Under the Palms’.

headlined the Jazz and Candlelight Dinner and concert event, which opened the Festival on Wednesday, January 29th. Soulful Jazz Vocalist Kellie Cadogan was also featured on opening night.

Musicfest 2020 showcased a large Vincentian contingent this year with internationally acclaimed violinist Darron Andrews and DaBand also playing on opening night.

Thursday night was a free event, but activities were focused at the Frangipani Hotel with the 14piece Elite Steel Orchestra, followed by DJ Addicted.

Musicfest favourite Rodney Small and the RS Band is set to light up tonight, Friday, at the Bequia Plantation Hotel.

Canada’s Shuffle Demons funk band also brought their high-energy performance to the Friday Nite Live at the Plantation, as well as popular Barbados Kevan Sahai and the Crashers rock and roll band who headlined that night.

Saturday Afternoon’s “Live Music Under the Palms” at the beautiful Plantation Hotel will feature Martinique Creole band GBK, along with the Bequia Blues Band, guitarist Joshu from Antigua, UK Jazz singer Zeeteah Massiah, as well as SVG’s vocalist Sarah Mark.

And some of Vincy’s best soca artistes were set to rock De Reef on Soca Sunday, February 2. Among these: Fonando, Dymez and DaPixel, Lpank, Keith Currency, Sita, Caspa G, Magikal and LPank.

International DJ “Outkast” from St. Marten making his Musicfest debut, is expected to bring down the house for the Soca Sunday event!

Bequia’s talented young pan side the Kids on Pan will also perform on Soca Sunday.

Festival Director and Chairperson of the Bequia Tourism

ÂHanceÊ, ÂProblem ChildÊ vying for Soca honours VINCENTIAN Soca artistes Hance ‘Hance’ John and Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James have been selected as semi-finalists in the Groovy and Power Soca categories respectively, of the 2020 International Scoa Monarch staged in Trinidad and Tobago.

That round of competition is scheduled for tomorrow night, Saturday 2nd February.

While ‘Problem Child’ was selected on an independent entry, ‘Hance’ was chosen from a list of entries submitted on behalf of a list of artistes by the Carnival Development

Corporation (CDC).

Others whose names were submitted by the CDC but who failed to make the semi-final cut were Derron ‘Magikal’ Rouse, Villroy ‘Tuffa’ Jac, Chewalee Johnson and Vasita ‘Sita the Lyrical Diva’ Caine.

In related news, the CDC has disclosed that it will be “ramping up our Vincy Mas promotions in Trinidad & Tobago.”

Towards this end, on Thursday 20th February, the CDC will do a live showcase on Synergy TV from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, as part of Shertz ‘Problem Child’ James is a former Road March winner here and is known to have composed for many top artistes in Trinidad and Tobago.

Hance John is the reigning Ragga Soca Monarch of SVG. Synergy’s programme ‘Pon-de-Avenue.

The showcase is expected to feature various aspects of Vincy culture and festivals, and interviews of CDC officials and Vincy artistes.

The event will be streamed live on SYNERGY TV and VC3 TV. Other media establishments, the CDC said, would be covering the activities and news stories are expected to be published in Toronto, Miami and the UK.

Bequia Blues Band was among a cavalcade of local and regional acts on Saturday at Plantation Hotel.

Association Sabrina Mitchell anticipates an “awesome and enjoyable week, showcasing the highest standard of hospitality to our locals and visitors, bringing music to suit all tastes.” (Source: Bequia Musicfest) Internationally renowned guitarist Ronald ‘Boo’ Hickson headlined the Jazz and Candlelight Dinner and Concert, Musicfest’s opening event.

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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

News feature

No $$ For Child Justice Act Financial support vital

Stephenson, in his December debate, acknowledged the financial significance of implementing the Child Justice Act. “This bill would have some very serious implications for the Ministry of Finance, and I know that the Permanent Secretary and staff in the Ministry of National Mobilization have been discussing personnel and staff to carry this bill forward, and that the discussions are ongoing,” he said.

In the December 27th Debate, Bacchus-Baptiste supported the precepts enshrined in the then Bill, Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste said she is yet to find any saying, “The most important direct, substantial financial support for the Child Justice Act part of passing this Child in the 2020 Estimates.

Justice Act is to have a national policy, a national framework that would make Most notably, the new law the Act work.” increased the age of criminal The West St. George MPresponsibility — the minimum hopeful then looked at several age that an individual can be charged, arrested or otherwise cost centres that must be financed in order to make the held accountable for alleged offences — from eight (8) years Act effective in its entirety, old up to twelve (12). As such, e.g. child friendly a child under twelve years old detention/assessment centres, additional social workers, would not be prosecuted for alleged offences. Additionally, trainings for police and other professionals who may have to the Act outlaws corporal interact with alleged offending punishment as well as life minors, as well as the sentences for minors. compulsory provision of legal The Act also looks at aid to all alleged offending alternative measures to minors. address concerns relating to alleged offenders including Frederick Stephenson, whose securing attendance of a child No financial support portfolios include at an initial enquiry, and the Fast forward to January 22 responsibility for the Family establishment of assessment and Finance Minister Camillo (Children), gave early centres and residential Gonsalves’ presentation of the indication that he recognised facilities “for the reception, that the Act was no use evaluation or rehabilitation of 2020 Estimates of Revenue and Expenses; he is reported unless it was adequately a child,” Minister Frederick to have told parliament, “The supported financially.

Stephenson explained in his December 27th parliamentary government will build on its track record of improving the NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY’S debate.

Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste Minister Stephenson, whose quality and quantity of persons in its employ.” He has dismissed the government’s ministerial portfolio includes passage of the Child Justice Act Social Development, National then proceeded to list several new civil service positions as merely a “PR stunt,” and Mobilisation et al, also approved by his Ministry, as fingered the government for disclosed that a Child Justice part of the estimated $1.12 failing to properly finance the Committee is to be set up to billion allocated for spending implementation of the Act, guide what would be the in 2020. which is awaiting proclamation. “informal” judicial process.

In her response, BacchusVincentian lawmakers This is in support of a convened last December to principal tenet of the new law Baptiste said “I searched the Estimates to see if there’s pass the Child Justice Act. dubbed Diversion. anything at all to support this This new Act is meant to not Under the Act, Diversion serious implementation of the only bring the country into allows for the Child Justice Child Justice Act and I cannot compliance with United Committee (comprising of a find it.” The Senator then Nations conventions and magistrate, a religious reminded the House that both OECS led commitments, but minister and two social sides agreed, in the December more importantly, it workers) to remove alleged debate, that it would cost a configured to manage the offending minors’ cases from notable sum to implement the “judicial process for children the formal courtroom Child Justice Act. “But I note accused of committing proceedings to “minimize that there is no money at all offences.” The Act, therefore, children’s contact with the projected in the Estimates up protects the rights of children, criminal justice system,” especially those that come into Senator Kay Bacchus-Baptiste to 2022 for this Child Justice Act,” Bacchus-Baptiste conflict with the law. further clarified in support of highlighted. the Act’s passage.

She was guided to page 239 Some tenets of the New Act

of the current estimates from which she discerned some The Child Justice Act found favour with both sides of the House of Assembly and was 3 new social passed in December 2019. worker positions, 4 child protection officers and 5 maintenance workers were allotted to the Social Development Ministry “…that is what you say is your projection? Are we for real? In the normal operation of business in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we needed more social workers. So, I take this to mean that you recognize that fact. I don’t see how this can bring the Child Minister of Finance Camillo Justice Act into operation.

Gonsalves said government This is cosmetic… It is too was committed to ‘improving little, too little,” Bacchussthe quality and quantity of Baptiste said.

She concluded by disclosing persons in its employ’ and this was taken to include a very recent case that required her legal services the adequate human resource for the Child Justice Act. previous Sunday. Senator Bacchus-Baptiste told the House of a minor who was the Child Justice Act. incarcerated at a police station Minister Stephenson holding cell “for the weekend” declined to offer further debate in illustration of the dire on the issue. seriousness of the government’s failure to enact jp.schwmon.vincy@gmail.com

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 11.

Letters

AIA canÊt take off

THE INCOMPETENCE of PM Gonsalves and his regime as far as finance and financial management are concerned, is clearly demonstrated at the AIA. An Airport Financial Management expert and Budget Analyst told this writer that the construction of the AIA is the equivalent of a poor man

purchasing a Bentley, (car) when all he can truly afford is to travel by minibus daily.

Over EC$1bn was spent on the AIA construction, despite.

It will take some time for it, if at all it can, to deliver a plus factor to SVG economy.

In conversation with this writer, two persons with high

Disappointed with our journalism ‘IS THE NEWS too negative?’, I might be old-timish, but I find that the media (newspaper, radio, TV, internet news) take pleasure and look forward to reporting how many persons were killed or shot or something related to violence.

The media hardly ever take the time to highlighting the positive things that are happening in our country.

Sometimes I wonder why I continue to read and listen to the news.

You would swear that SVG is the only country that has a crime problem. Our journalists are too lazy to investigate what’s happening in other islands, and present the news as balanced as possible.

No way man… our journalists prefer to take the easy road out and report on the dirty politics and the crime that we have here. And I suppose that is what most Vincentians want.

All in all, I am disappointed with the style of journalism.

I hope, Mr. Editor, that you will publish this letter.

Harry P Kingstown

Nip it in the bud

IF IT IS AS attorney Grant Connell said, i.e. that the police are obsessed with marijuana and therefore they would find it hard to adjust to a situation in which they now have to tolerate the growing, even smoking of the herb, can we not speculate that we might just see some more raids like the one in Richmond Vale?

I mean, think about it: An obsession (with marijuana) coupled with a disregard for police procedure and line of authority, what is to prevent it?

To avoid any repeat of police ‘taking the law into their own hands’, we must move swiftly to rid the police force of all those who think they are the law!!!

I shudder to think what could happen having to go into this already charged election year with a police force that is either a law onto itself, or has a definite bias for one of the main political parties.

In any one of these two cases, not to mention a combination of both, there lies nothing short of chaos ahead of us.

Mr. Editor, there are some things that we just should not sweep under the carpet. The recent action by the police in Richmond is one such incident, since it has serious repercussions for all of us, especially in this time of uncertainty regarding an amnesty for cultivators of marijuana.

Marijuana Planter

not 500 business persons travelling to and from SVG yearly.

Even if agriculture were risen from the grave, export by ships presents a more affordable option for both farmers and buyers.

It’s going to take more than a miracle for the AIA to generate a plus factor to the SVG economy.

connection to airlines, assessed the potential of the AIA as being a minus factor to the economy.

In a nutshell, the current schedule of flights in and out of the AIA cannot sustain it.

Even worse is that airlines Kadmiel McFee continue to arrive and depart with empty seats, and there are Independent politician

Get off that fence NB: Edited for purposes of length.

“…How long will you go limping between the two sides? If Yahweh is Elohim, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him…”

In this present age, there are some people who from time to time do not want to offend family, friends, or acquaintances, so they maintain their old links to the popular worship of the L-rd. On one hand, they seek to worship the True Elohim Yahweh, but on the other hand, their heartstrings remain tightly knotted to

the worship of the L-rd.

What will it take to awaken you to get you off that fence?

In Luke 9: 57 — 62, Yahshua deals with three individuals who typify so many modernday people interested in religion. The first individual promises that he will follow the Messiah wherever He goes, but when Yahshua reminds him that taking on himself such an obligation is not one of glamour or prestige, and

that the way is not easy, he did not re-express his commitment. Yahshua OVER the years, it is the Messiah asks a obvious that many second person to follow Christian groups are Him, but the man begs using the name Yahweh to be excused so that he in their worship could bury his father. interchangeably with LThe third individual rd and G-d. There are promises to follow the many instances of a Teacher, but he would similar wavering rather first bid farewell attitude recorded to his family. (Will his throughout the Sacred family coax him to Scriptures. Ancient remain at home?). We Israel, not wishing to offend either Yahweh or cannot look back in Baal (Lord,) was retrospect but must be challenged by Eliyah, firm in our decision to serve Yahweh. You have to burn the bridges leading back to the past.

Have you placed the Kingdom of Yahweh first THE FAMILY plays a friends — persons to any child. It is when in your life? Do you seek major role in the whom they can talk at they are searching and to emulate the development of any any time on any subject. experimenting. This righteousness of Yahweh nation. Many of the Many children have make it easier for them in your daily existence, social ills — crime, issues, but seldom are in a situation of a strong or have you concentrated violence, suicides — arise they allowed to speak up relationship built on love simply upon the physical from poor family and out. More often they and understanding. rather than the structure, e.g. single are rebuked, condemned, May we have a spiritual? It is time to parent homes. even told to shut up. Do restoration of the family get down off that fence, For an effective and most parents know what this year so as to prevent to go to the right side, to strong family, the their children are facing all the social ill. May correct your life, and following must obtain: and what are the issues God bless this nation’s bring it into harmony Christ must be the affecting them? Spending children and give us with Yahweh’s Word. head of the home, i.e. time with them is of stronger families. that Christ should be utmost priority; listen to Sheldon Govia living in the hearts of them; sit and watch Kennard King Assemblies of Yahweh parents. We, therefore, things together; let the Cedars must put Christ back children talk on any into the home; He is issue. more important than And while we criticize money and material our children, we should things. also compliment them.

There must be a good Never let a child feel relationship between that he/she can never children and parents, as please mummy. can be seen in the case of And within it all, Abraham and Isaac there must be Charity (Genesis 22.) Far too (Love). Love is not just often the emphasis is on ‘material things’, it is brand name clothes, about accepting the child gadgets, cell phones, for who he/she is, and tablets and the being there for them. television, and while Many children would say these things are good Mummy/Daddy loves and in some cases them; they (children) get necessary, they take what they want. As they away the quality time grow older, they would that should be spent wish that with the children, Mummy/Daddy would thereby affecting take the time out to try child/parent heart to to understand what they heart conversations. are going through.

Children must see their Teenage years are the parents as their best most confusing years of

Family: The bedrock

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12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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The 2020 Budget Exercise The 2020 Budget – A big fat lie (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s presentation on the debate of the 2020 Estimates)

Introduction

BY THIS TIME next week,(the weekend of the 7th February, 2020) the House of Assembly, having debated the 2020 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure, would have passed the 2020 Appropriation Bill, amounting to EC$ 1,186,351,151.This is after the Minister of Finance, Camillo Gonsalves, moved a resolution under section 20(1) of the Financial Administration Act, chapter 25.

For ease of reference, we shall refer to the budgeted figure as EC$1.18 billion dollars. The recurrent expenditure of the budget, where salaries and other costs are met, is EC$875 million, while the government will allocate EC$310 million on its capital programme. The budget costs will be financed through EC$684 million in current revenue, and capital receipts of EC$506 million dollars.

This year, the government will create a number of new posts in the Public Service, to deliver the plans and programmes of the ULP administration, in a more efficacious manner. Thirty-seven new positions will go to the Ministry of Finance, eight will go to the Internet Training Services Division, the ITSD. The Customs and Excise Department will get eighteen more positions mainly to improve the services at the international airport, and sixteen positions to the Ministry of Transport, for their role in the expanded capital works programme.

In preparation for the role of the State as the smallest country to become a member of the UN Security Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will get ten more positions, mainly to assist with policy development and research. In addition, there will be four new posts for the Audit Department, five for the office of the Attorney General and ten for the Ministry of Education.

Salaries and Wages In 2020, the government will spend in the region of EC$330 million on wages and salaries, to meet the provision of services for the public, an increase of 36 percent. Salaries will be EC$269.7 million, wages EC$23.1 million, allowances EC$24.8 million, and NIS contribution at EC$12.5 million.

The main contributor for the increase in salaries and wages is the two percent salary increase to public servants in 2020, and the filling of several critical positions within the public service, to carry out the functions of the Government.

We must remember that public servants received an increase in pay in 2019, a backdated one percent with an enhanced increase of one point five percent enhancement as of the start of 2019, plus the additional two percent from January this year. All told, government workers are receiving a four point five percent increase, over their 2018 salaries.

The issue of pensions and other retirement benefits continues to grow in the budget of the government. This year, the government will spend EC$72.6 million on pensions. This is the single fastest growing item of recurrent expenditure in the budget.

It is clear to all and sundry that the current situation as it applies to pensions and other retirement benefits is unsustainable. Reform is

clearly needed and must be the order of the day, going forward. This will involve discussions with the trade unions, other persons within the trade union movement, and relevant members of the general public.

Targeted strategic intervention There are four functional areas of the economy which will receive targeted strategic intervention in the 2020 budget. Tourism takes pride of place given the spate of activity around the Argyle International airport, and the cruise ship industry.

The other areas are energy, agriculture and construction. In terms of construction, this will reflect the activities around the work being done on several hotel projects in the State, as well as projects related to roads, coastal and environmental protection and back walls.

The government will continue the process of transforming the Vincentian economy, from one that was based on a mono crop export and low skilled labour, to a post-colonial one that is diverse, modern, competitive, and fully engaged with international commerce. This process began last year, and will continue with the 2020 budget.

Leadership The preparation, coordination, presentation and execution of a budget require careful planning and leadership. A team of public servants are engaged in the preparation of the document itself, but the information that is displayed must reflect the vision, philosophy and strategies of the Unity Labour Party.

This is where the leadership is important. There must be a clear understanding of the process, a clear understanding of how the Vincentian economy functions, the possibilities and problems, and how these affect real flesh and blood people called Vincentians. There must be the knowledge and the experience to clearly analyze all the factors which will impact the budget, and to design a strategic pathway to ensure that the socio economic benefits accrue to all Vincentians.

This is a task for serious people, who have been tried and tested, like the leadership of the ULP, under Comrade Ralph.

Take the case of the NDP and its leader Godwin Friday. Faced with the clearly defined plans of the ULP, in the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure, he could only lamely plead that there was nothing in the budget in an election year at that.

Well, what can we expect from a political party that is not in communion with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

As a political party, the NDP has failed, and continues to fail the people of this beloved country. All they can offer is timidity, learned helplessness, pessimism and non-achievement. The ULP offers boldness, courage, faith, hope, love, optimism, and the grace of right reason which will lead to progress and a better life.

WE HAVE AN overall budget of almost $1.2 billion. In 2019, we also went over the billion-dollar mark at $1.067 billion.

The budget in 2020 is significantly larger, 11% larger than that of 2019. In 2019, it grew over 2018 and in 2020, it grew even faster. It’s growing bigger and faster.

It is very clear to me and it would be to most of the people of this country that the Minister of Finance and the government are responding to the fact that we are in an election year. This is an election budget. We are now permanently a billion-dollar budget.

What does that mean to the people of this country? Does it mean that the Minister will spend or even intends to spend $1.2 billion in 2020? Or is it just to use the most charitable term an unrealistic wish or a fantasy? Or less generous term, perhaps more accurate to say the budget continues the ‘Big Fat Lie’ that this government has perpetrated on the people year after year, because what we see here is a continuation of the same pattern that we have already come familiar with in this House.

It is stated plainly here that they will spend $1.2 billion. They know that they will not and cannot execute that. They cannot achieve it; this is because they do not have the $1.2 billion to spend, and they know it, yet they put it in the budget. If the record of the past years of this government is to be relied upon, then it is a safe prediction to make that they don’t have the money to do it. They will not do it, and for what it’s worth, they never intended to do it.

Let’s look at where the Minister says the money is coming from, Tax Revenue: $585.6 million; Non-Tax Revenue: $94.3million; Total Current Revenue: $680,039,100. And the Capital Receipts: Grants: $60.6 million; External Loans: $118.4 million; Local Loans: $72 million; Capital Revenue: $3 million and Budget Support Loan: $46.9 million.

The Minister explained that the Budget Support Loan came from the International Development Association (IDA) which is affiliated to the World Bank. It’s easy money, long term to repay. And the Total Capital Receipts along with Other Receipts of $205.3 million becomes $506. 3million.

But the problematic component of that as we have known over the years, and I have said this many times, in that $506 million, you have the capital receipts of over $205 million.

Last year, it went up to $198 million.

The history has been as the Minister pointed out; he will collect between 34%, most of the time under 10 %. But last year, the government claimed it received $160 million in Other receipts. He didn’t say exactly where it came from.

In the document, Other Receipts is listed under the domestic sources of funding, but I find it difficult to imagine that you can raise $160

million domestically. So, the Minister perhaps didn’t think we were interested in that aspect of it. When he rises again will tell us not just that he budget the amount and he raised $160 million of it because it was needed: but where did it come from.?

Is it part of the IDA loan?

How do we suddenly, from hardly receiving any funds from this category, collected $160 million? And what is the likelihood that this now continues to be the happy circumstance that every year at the beginning of the preparation of the budget, the Minister will not be aware of the source of funding. Therefore, everything else is lumped under Other Receipts to balance the budget; in the hope that during the year, something will come up and fill that category, because that is the only way you can explain why you will have a category of revenue receipts that doesn’t have a specific source.

I think it was explained in the House in a previous debate, that there may be an expectation of getting some funding sometimes stronger than others but not yet quite sure that it will materialize or even worse, that you don’t know where it is going to come from and hence that category. In its purest sense, Other Receipt really is an accounting device to make the budget add up because the Minister can’t present a budget. He doesn’t have the money to execute what he is doing. Hence, is to leave it up to us and to others who may have a better understanding as to how these things work.

That category of Other Receipts doesn’t mean the government has the money. That means they don’t know that they have the money. When they tell you; they are going to spend $1.2 billion, don’t believe it because they don’t know where the money is coming from. Because if they knew where it was coming from, it would be specified in the estimates.

Other Receipts is 40.5 % of the Capital Receipts. Therefore, almost half of the money that you have in Capital Receipts comes from a category of financing that you don’t know about. Ultimately, what we have characterized this as over the years effectively is really the deficit in the budget that the government has presented. This year, Other Receipt is $205 million, 40.5% of the Capital Receipts. The situation would have been worse had it not been for the borrowing under the IDA programme of $46.9 million which is a new loan that has come on to the Estimates.

Why continue to inflate the budget if you know you are $2 million short?

In 2013, Other Receipts amounted to $113 million; in 2015, $154 million; in 2018, $160 million, and last year, $198 million; this year $205 million, $7 million more than last year’s. As the deficit gets bigger, the lie gets bigger.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 13.

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lessons from a Dog called Tiger

“The true mark of maturity is when someone hurts you and you try to understand their situation instead of trying to hurt them back.” Anonymous MY MOTHER HAS ALWAYS HAD AN AFFINITY for dogs. There was a time when she was especially interested in getting a British Bulldog (a muscular, hefty, medium-sized dog breed with a wrinkled face and a pushed in nose). I could never understand or appreciate why she was attracted to such an ugly creature (no offence meant to dog lovers or British Bulldog owners).

She was once given a dog that had black and grey stripes with a design that was similar to a tiger’s bands. It was therefore quite understandable that we called him “Tiger”. We loved him dearly and cared for him with tenderness and love. He would have known how much we treasured his presence. While still relatively young, Tiger opted to leave the fenced yard via a gate that was accidentally left ajar. Shortly after entering the nearby road, he was unintentionally run over by a passing vehicle. His legs were crushed but the remainder of his body had been unhurt. Tiger cried. Tiger screeched. Tiger yelped.

He was hurting badly. Being a relatively small dog, it was rather easy for me to pull him from the road.

However, in his pain, the ungrateful dog bit me as I sought to help him.

Some readers would readily suggest that I replace the word “ungrateful” with “hurting”. I agree. And therein lies the lesson from this experience: sometimes when we seek to help hurting persons they may lash out at us, not necessarily because they are ungrateful, but because they are in pain. That pain could be physical, spiritual, mental, or emotional. And while we may not appreciate such reactions it becomes easier for us to cope with such behaviours if/when we can empathise with their situations.

At times like these, we are required to be mature enough that when someone hurts us, we may find value in seeking to understand their situation instead of trying to hurt them back.

The ability to show empathy (and to forgive the unforgivable) must be considered a strength and not be viewed as a weakness. It takes strength of character to be hurt by others and not fall prey to seeking vengeance. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) and Nelson Mandela (1918-2013), both advocated nonviolent responses to the indiscretions and the hurt-generating behaviours of others. Both of them went through extremely hurtful experiences at the hands of individuals whose spirits were poisoned by colour prejudice and a false sense of superiority. The treatment meted out to them could understandably beckon for violent reactions. However, in both instances, they advocated non-violent reactions. They knew that evil must be driven out by good and darkness by light. Such approaches appear to go contrary to human nature since we tend to want to hurt those who hurt us. However, we all have the capacity to develop the self-discipline (the restraint) to select an alternate response — to counter evil with good; to fight darkness with light. This

calls for maturity. This demands a disciplined life.

Many of us can be tempted to become very cynical, non-trusting, and uncaring when individuals hurt us. This is especially so when we would have invested time and/or money to support them physically, financially, and/or emotionally. Many of this column’s readers may be in a position where they can identify with such scenarios. They will therefore understand and appreciate the temptation to “get even” or to “exact my pound of flesh”. However, such “animal reactions” debilitate our emotions and strip us of our dignity and purity. There is really no need for us to sink to that level — to seek vengeance. Sometimes the better option (and more lasting solution) is to seek to heal the hurt and not try to hit back.

The story is told of two friends who were hiking through the bushy section of a forest. They had been advised that some areas of the forest had been populated by poisonous snakes.

However, they were confident that the cutlasses that they had in order to cut away the bush along their paths would have been sufficient protection.

They were so very wrong. The friend who was positioned at the front of the line did not see the snake that was hidden among the branches along the trail. As he passed by, the snake bit him on his forearm and immediately scampered through the grass ahead of him. His friend shouted to him to pursue the snake in an effort to kill it.

However, instead of this he opted to take his cutlass, make a slit the area where the snake’s fangs had pierced his forearm, placed his mouth over the wound that he had created, and immediately commenced sucking the poisonous venom from his body. He was confident that this action saved his life.

Later that day, his friend asked why he had not pursued the snake when he had a chance to kill it. His comment was quite revealing. He noted that if he had hunted the snake, the increased physical activity would have pumped the venom throughout his body. This would have certainly resulted in his death. This is a useful reminder that we have to be so very careful when we seek to exact vengeance when persons hurt us. It is quite possible that the desire to hurt those who have hurt us could result in our “poisoned spirit”. If the truth be told, it is often not worth the effort. Seeking revenge or trying to return a hurt can be self-destructive.

Reflection on the experiences generated by a dog called Tiger, can enable us to take a more mature look at the sources of our various hurts … and our need to forgive. The true mark of maturity is when someone hurts us and we try to understand their situation instead of trying to hurt them back.

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

Philanthropic Capitalism: The World has changed (Editors’s Note: This piece was first published October 26, 2016.)

that

“PHILANTHROPIC CAPITALISM is the idea that capitalism is or can be charitable in and of itself. The claim is that capitalist mechanisms are superior to all others [especially the state] when it comes to not only creating economic but also human progress; that the market and market actors are or should be made the prime creators of the good society; that capitalism is not the problem but the solution to all the major problems in the world; that the best thing to do is to extend the market to hitherto private or state processes; and, finally, that there is no conflict between rich and poor, but that the rich is rather the poor’s best and possibly only friend.”

Danish Historian Mikkel Thorup, “It’s all part of Capitalism: How Philanthropy Perpetuates Inequality’.

Carnegie and Rockefeller formed Foundations. Today Google, Bill Gates, Warren Buffet, Bill and Hillary Clinton, just to name a few, are into the foundation business. They all claim they want to give away money, to do good and make the lives of the poor better.

Like Carnegie and Rockefeller before them, they made moneys by using their social positions, exploiting workers, doing enormous environmental damage, as is reflected in the poisoned air, rivers, waterways, and most prominently climate change.

In a world where an increasingly small percentage of the population controls a larger percentage of the world’s resources, income and wealth, where the income of workers have stagnated or reversed when checked against inflation, where increased borrowing and debt is the only explanation why some people survive, the moneyed philanthropists tell us that only their brand of benevolent capitalism can solve the problems facing the world.

They offer philanthropy as the cure for the world’s problems as they encourage people to support the fire sale of the assets of the people. In some countries schools, prisons, water as well as the security systems are now in private hands. Everything must be done with a profit motive in mind. The state must jettison its welfare policies and let the titans of business do their magic.

Therefore, when the Clinton Foundation partners with us in our effort to exploit our geo-thermal resources, we are told to drop our guard because foundations sole intent is to do good. When Bill Gates smiles his way to more billions and impact negatively on agriculture in Africa and Asia, we must turn a blind eye because the Gates Foundation says its mission is to eradicate illness and disease in the poorest regions on earth. When in 2014 the Indian Supreme Court raised questions about Gates Foundation practice of using rural Indians as ginnea pigs for drugs made by big pharma, we are told to disregard all such claims as anti rich bashing and conspiracy.

Another fallacy that has gained ground in the last 40 years is that government efforts to ameliorate poverty are bureaucratic, inefficient and ineffective. The flip side of this is that business, with its unwavering fixation on the bottom line, is the opposite, and that by applying market principles to social ills, society can be cured of what ails it. Indeed, this idea is repeated with such regularity that it is almost universally accepted throughout the Western Hemisphere.

As society adopts a more materialist culture, there is the mistaken belief

individual consumption can change the world. We are told to buy “green” and save the planet, buy “red” and help those with HIV/AIDS, wear pink and show solidarity with those suffering from breast cancer. While these campaigns are useful, if they are not kept in perspective we can become duped and miss the main reason for suffering on this planet.

People are not suffering and dying of preventable diseases because the well to do members of society has failed to consume enough products. People are not hunger because of a shortage of food. They starve and die because of the manner in which food is distributed.

Central to our understanding is how we answer the following: Is the environment, and the climate, best served by ‘smarter’ consumption?” Or would the planet be in better shape if we shopped less and conserved more?

We all get mesmerized by the ‘spectacle politics’. We are the world type of advocacy of celebrities such as Bono, Angelina Jolie and music producer Bob Geld. But we have to be cautious and skeptical, otherwise we miss the reality of the world’s problems.

These celebs may criticize inequality but are dependent upon it themselves.

They may ally themselves with the poor in campaigns but their lives are spent rubbing shoulders with the rich and mighty.

We must keep our eyes on the prize.

The world’s richest 85 individuals earn more than the bottom 50 percent of the world’s people. Philanthropy is not poised to do anything about this obscenity. It is here that community organizers and organizations, as well as government have a vital role to play.

With its power to tax the rich, rein in corporate abuse and support the creation of necessary social and cultural institutions, government can work for the majority and enhance their lives.

As it stands now, governments across the world pander to corporations and the rich for money to build and maintain schools, endow museums and build housing for the poor. To bring or keep jobs in their areas state officials are forced to offer the parents of these philanthropic foundations millions in tax relief and abatements.

Kim Klein, author of Fundraising for Social Change says it should n0t be this way, “We have become a patronage society in which we depend on the largesse and generosity of the super wealthy for way too much. If we agree with Kim Klien the clear conclusion is for us to look anew about the role of government, of taxes, of philanthropy, of what should be funded privately, what should be funded publicly, and how the people will benefit.

In conclusion, the objections to wealthy private corporations dedicated to doing good, as they see it, have remained the same since the early twentieth century when the first megafoundations were created: they intervene in public life, but are not accountable to the public. They are privately governed, but publicly subsidized by being tax exempt; and in a world where money translates into political power, they reinforce the problem of moneyed class: the exercise of power derived from wealth.

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

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14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

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ULPÊs 2020 Budget: A national disgrace

THE ULP’S 2020 BUDGET of $1.2 billion is a national disgrace. Yet again, it is budget with a fiscal deficit. It is not good for the country or our people.

For the first time ever, the budget has a ‘Budget Support Loan’. This loan is $46,936,500.

The ULP regime has effectively declared to the country, that there is a very strong possibility that the SVG 2020 Budget will collapse, so much so, they decided they needed a Budget Support Loan of $46,936,500.

Does this mean that the revenue the ULP regime said will come in, as set out in the budget, is inaccurate and some of the figures are inflated?

In the unlikely event that the ULP Regime 2020 Budget does not collapse, who gets the $46,936,500? And who will pay the cost of interest on such a big loan?

The ULP regime has been in office since 2001 and has not been able to present a Budget in the SVG Parliament with a Fiscal Surplus. Is it not fair to conclude that the blind is leading the blind in the ULP regime?

The ULP regime is highly unqualified,

grossly incompetent, useless and hopeless at managing the public accounts.

The ULP regime has placed a low priority on providing Vincentian children with high-quality education.

The ULP regime’s projected Capital Expenditure on education for 2020 is peanuts — only 1.71% of the annual budget expenditure. This is nowhere near enough, given that many schools in SVG are dilapidated.

The United Nations calls on developing countries to spend 20% of their annual budget on education.

New Zealand is at the very top of the scale - 21.6 percent of the country’s total public expenditure is devoted to education. Mexico isn’t far behind with 20.5 percent. The story is similar in Brazil where a significant proportion of public finances, 19.2 percent, gets spent on the education system.

Warrant Officer Ivan O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Green Party, strongly believes that Vincentian children’s education gets a kick in the face from the short-sighted and grossly incompetent ULP regime.

Receipts’ which is over 205 million dollars. Is this money that the ULP regime hopes will fall out of the sky, or is this more crown lands being sold in 2020, to fill this big hole in the 2020 There is heavy investment in budget? education in Singapore. The rate of Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal, return on investment in education in BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, Leader of SVG Singapore is very high, in that, businesses worldwide invest billions of Green Party, who spent three years full time reading for his BSc (Hons) dollars in to Singapore.

Degree in Accounting and Finance and Unemployment is very low there too.

The ULP Regime received Grants of Economics at Oxford Brookes University, England, believes that this E$60,678,710, but have not said who 2020 budget is a national disgrace. the Grants came from and how the Our people must prepare for more E$60,678,710 will be spent. The people economic and financial hardship and have an inherent right to know this upheaval in this year ahead. information.

In the budget 2020, there is ‘Other

Children on their own CHILDREN of ages, interested parties, a charge has been laid on the police officer who molested the young girl- seeking help for an abusive situation at her home. See Kenton Chance’s I-Witness News Online of 2 or 3 weeks ago.

Such a type of scenario (paedophilia) is so common in SVG, yet it is an unspoken taboo.

At the risk of sounding ‘creepy’ (an assumption no acquaintance of mine would entertain), I observe children in all sorts of situations with adults on a daily basis on the streets of Kingstown. What I see (as a wellread student of psychology) is especially in body language, the inhibited anger, a frightened acquiescence (this by younger children) and restless incarceration of spirit, in hyper mode, expressed in many ways and myriad patterns of acting out, sometimes so subtle - if you were not looking closely, you might miss it.

All of these signs were evident when I was approached on the streets of Kingstown a year or so ago by a twelve-year-old boy, who aggressively, almost angrily, propositioned me for a sexual act; this right after he had snatched from me, the cigarette I was smoking. It was 10pm or so on a week night as I sat near to the Singer building.

I rebuffed the youngster, who had garrulous questions about my financial situation, my status as disenfranchised on the street.

His approach indicated a huge measure of confidence that I would engage in sex with him.

After that, I saw him a few times on the street, an intense, disturbed look of fatalism and ethereality on his face. Recently again, I saw him and decided to talk to him for a written document of his case.

First, he corroborated that he had had sexual liaisons with many men, in answer to my question. He asked me whether or not I do the same, and I told him no.

I asked his permission to publish a

discreet report on him, which he was very reluctant to do. We talked about the young girl’s case alluded to at the top of this article, and I asked what he would say to adult men who abuse children. He said he would tell them, “Stop”, because it is wrong and they should know better.

I think this young man’s parents leave a lot to be desired since, on many occasions, he is out late at night. I fear that the young man will one day act out with violence, this likelihood based again on his actions, and a couple of choice curse words he gave me when I tried to go deeper into the interview.

Incidentally, his career goal is an aspiration to police work.

I think of the two teenage gang bang stories in the headlines recently where you have peers raping peers.

Where was this behavior learned, and where are the parents in the sexual education of their children? They’re not getting it at home surely.

Negative modern music, pornographic internet, and Armageddon-age television are raising these children, surely.

I got from the youngster, that he did not trust the police, and maybe that he has accepted unwillingly his role as victim, where there are so many sexual wrong-doers around that it would be somewhat futile to revolt.

Sadly, in spite of the charge on the officer, many youngsters wanting to do the right thing, will think twice about reporting abuse.

Speaking of which, I leave you with an international incident. Joel Davis a 24-year-old child advocate tapped for a Nobel Prize for his unflagging commitment to the cause, was arrested after pornographic pics of child sex were found on his PC. Looking at the previous sentence with clarity indicates that something is wrong with the picture, an Oxymoron comes into play.

Not everyone is a willing child abuser, but the law is the law! Only true faith need apply.

Colin King

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16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Youth

GHS/Bequia student is Commonwealth Essay Finalist

NEFERTITI NERO of the St. Vincent Girls’ High School and a Bequia native literally wrote herself into a place of pride in the history of this country, when she qualified as a Gold Award Finalist in the 2019 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition.

She was chosen as one of 140 finalists from a total of 11, 000 entries, becoming the first Vincentian to have ever made the final crop in any of the two categories (senior and junior) of the Competition.

A Pan-Commonwealth body of more than 100 volunteer judges, drawn from 40 different countries, assessed entries across every region of the Commonwealth.

And while she was not among the winners recently announced, Nefertiti said, “I felt happy about my first time entering the Competition.”

And as to where she found support, her response was, “I am thankful to my mom who encouraged me to do my best and have faith in my creative piece”.

Nefertitit is encouraging young people to enter this year (2020), saying, “It is really fun when you put your passion into your writing about a chosen topic of interest.”

This year’s competition, on the theme ‘A Connected Commonwealth’, asked entrants to consider how they can work to use cultural, technological

and environmental connections for positive change across the Commonwealth. Topics invited young people to consider the potential of the Commonwealth in strengthening the vast and varied links between citizens.

The 2020 theme, ‘Climate Action in the Commonwealth’, encourages young people aged 18 and under, from across the globe, to explore this critical environmental issue. It aims to challenge young people’s thinking and means by which they express themselves, using creative forms of writing, including stories, poems, scripts or essays.

The winners of this year’s competition as announced by the Royal

Nefertiti Nero has made herself, her family, her school and country proud.

Commonwealth Society are: Senior Winner: Catherine Wang, Canada; Senior Runner-up: Nnemdi Ozoemena, Nigeria; Junior Winner: Veronica Shen, Singapore; Junior Runnerup: Elise Jensen, Ghana.

Among the past winners of the Competition was Lee Hsien Loong, the Prime Minister of Singapore.

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Community

Signs of preliminary work at the Rose Hall Playing Field.

Rose Hall to get multipurpose sporting facility THE NORTH LEEWARD community of Rose Hall is poised to have its own multipurpose sporting facility.

The plan for the facility was disclosed by the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for North Leeward, Carlos James, during a meeting with residents on Tuesday 14th, at the Rose Hall Community Centre.

The work will see an upgrade to the existing Rose Hall Playing Field which will entail: the regrassing and improvement of the playing surface; construction of bath rooms and changing rooms for both male and female, construction of a standard size Hard Court and bleachers.

The ULP candidate said that he had first looked at putting the facility in an area next to the Rose Hall Methodist Church, but it was decided that the best option was the area where the playing field is currently located.

He said that general area will have to be extended and that a portion of land was acquired for the hardcourt to be constructed.

James said that he was thrust into this project, given the work of the Kenville Horne Sports Academy with the youth of the community, and the challenging

physical conditions under which those programmes were conducted.

Hoops Contractors from Petit Bordel has been given the contract to do the construction aspect of the project.

Shadrach Hooper, representative from the company, gave an outline of how the facility will be constructed. The first aspect of the project is to build a retaining wall.

Among the other measures that the firm will be involved in is the construction of changing rooms, wash rooms and the hard court as well as providing proper drainage for the playing field. The construction phase, according to Hoops, is expected to be completed in 3 months.

Parliamentary representative for the North Leeward constituency Patel Matthews, responding to news of the intention to build the facility in Rose

Hall, said that he was in support of any project that will improve the lives of people, especially young people.

“However,” he cautioned, “the record of the ULP, especially with projects of that nature, is not a good one. The national stadium comes immediately to mind; also making this announcement in an election year by a government that is in its 19th year in office, is very suspicious. It took 15 years for Cumberland Playing Field to come to fruition, and therein lies my concern. Saying that it will be built and building it is not the same,” said Matthews.

But James assured residents that the facility will be built. “I want to say very importantly that we have the funds already. It’s over $300,000, it’s not a $50,000 project or a $20,000 project,” said James. (KH)

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News

‘Double, Double’ singer to headline gospel concert

INTERNATIONAL Gospel Singer and Minister Atta Boafo will headline the High Praises Gospel Concert scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday 1st February, at Victoria Park.

Atta, originally from Ghana but now resident in the United Kingdom, will share the stage with some of SVG’s leading gospel artistes, the likes of Pearl McMaster, Shirley Browne,

Torell Doroaz, Hayden Billingy, Pastor Ruth Constance and Jahleel Cruickshank.

Pastor and Promoter of the High Praises Gospel Concert Costian Cupid said that the show will offer transformation and healing, including for those who are suffering from relationship issues or drugs problems.

When he visited THE

VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, Cupid made a special appeal to Christians and non-Christians alike, particularly the young people, to attend the show and be inspired.

Prophetess Youlanda Cupid, a member of the organizing committee for the concert, said that Atta has come “to bless the land.”

Saturday will mark the third time Atta Boafa will be performing in St. Vincent. However, he said that this time is going to be different.

“The first and the second times were amazing, but this time I feel a new move of the spirit. I keep hearing people saying, ‘Come and support the event’, but I want to say that when you come for this even,t you are actually not coming to support the event, you are supporting yourself,” he told THE VINCENTIAN. And as an added boost to attend, Affa reminded, “This is the year of the ‘double double’… . Anything that the enemy has stolen he is going to give us double.”

Though Affa, the 2011 Africa’s New

Atta Boafa is set for his third performance in SVG, but he promises that this one will be exceptional.

Gospel Singer Awardee is more recently known for his number ‘Double Double’, he has a string of hits including ‘Hungry to Worship’, ‘Worship and Adore’ ‘Mehia Wo’, ‘Most High’ and ‘After God’s Heart’. (KH)

ECG Machine for Chateaubelair smart hospital THE CHATEAUBELAIR Hospital was recently the recipient of an Electrocardiogram (ECG) Machine and printing supplies worth over Cdn$4,000.00.

The invaluable addition to the service at the Hospital was made possible by Vincentians residing in Toronto, members of the St. Vincent and Grenadines Association of Toronto Inc. (SVGAT) and the Toronto SVG Support Group (TSVGSG).

Each year, the organizations host a Toronto Harbour Boat Cruise, part

proceeds of which go to support a worthy cause in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The proceeds from the 2019 event along with a special discount from Superior Medical, a Toronto based supplier of medical equipment, went towards making the donation of the ECG possible.

Representatives from both the SVGAT and the TSVGSG made the presentation to the staff of the hospital, headed by Dr. Francis Murray, on December 19, 2019.

Representatives of the SVGAT and SVGSG hand over donation to Dr. Francis Murray (2nd from left).

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 19.

Feature

Saluting Sir Frederick Ballantyne

The warmth of the man is felt even from his smile.

I JOIN AT THIS TIME WITH THE BROTHERHOOD of past students of the St. Vincent Grammar School to honour the passing on of Frederick N. Ballantyne, one of our very own whose life’s work reflects a commitment to the development of our land.

He certainly remained true to the path towards the pursuit of excellence, set by his parents Sammy and Olive Ballantyne, who for decades, enjoyed popularity with, and respect from, the people of this land. Their business establishment, the renowned “Olive’s Hotel and Restaurant,” located in Paul’s Avenue, was the hive of social activity in Kingstown our capital for many years.

My most memorable encounter with him (Freddie) was when, we as boys, were attending the Grammar School, we met at lunch time near to the area where the Thompson Home now

stands, and he advised me to, “read more”.

He went on to become one of this country’s distinguished and respected medical practitioners, and he surely carried into his stint as Governor General of SVG, that disposition to empathise with, and engage himself in, the welfare of others. He commanded the honourable respect of all.

It was somewhat to me reflective of a lack of national pride, that we were taking a distinguished son of the soil to his final resting place, but while on the way, the atmosphere of neglect was inescapable.

The blank space where once there was the predominant clock on the Anglican Church tower, seemed to represent the blindness of the Church today. On passing the Gas Station, the sight of those derelict buildings which

in fact are right next to the compound of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, served to remind the funeral procession of the agonizing shoddiness of service reported by citizens. The obvious neglect of the drain right next to the hospital, made one think of not continuing to the cemetery.

On the left hand side of the road, the rails of the bridge have been broken for years, and from that vantage point, one had a good view of the rotting container which belongs to the Ministry of Health. How disgraceful!

This is the road to the ‘Hamlet’ of Edinboro, the Ottley Hall ship yard and the renowned, historical site, Fort Charlotte. Shame on us!

Will the status of our membership of the United Nations Security Council

prompt the support and guidance to retrieve national pride?

Sir Frederick Ballantyne has left us at a time when our nation is disappointedly weak in several areas, and it is to be hoped that we can now set about to produce citizens of the calibre of the doctor Sir Frederick Ballantyne, who will be disposed as he was, to the development of the land.

To his wife, children and all the Ballantyne family, I say we the Grammar School community share with you the pain of this tremendous loss.

May he rest in peace.

LeRoy Providence

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Feature

Persons from all walks of life waited in line for a turn to pay final respects to Sir Frederick Ballantyne.

Right: Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves (left front) and former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell (right) were one in the spirit as they mourned the loss of Sir Frederick Ballantyne.

There was a visible solemnity about those, including his widow Lady Sally-Ann Ballantyne, who turned out to send Sir Frederick to his final resting place – the Kingstown Cemetery.

Heads of the member churches of the SVG Christian Council were prominent in the procession to the Kingstown Cemetery.

Sir Frederick’s legacy is assured through his youthful bloodline.

The New Kingstown Chorale paid a moving tribute in song.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 25.

Feature

Sir Frederick Nathaniel Ballantyne, GCMG, MD government, and would be for every year of his degree. To crown it, he was elected president of the student government in his final year.

Sir Frederick interned at the Montreal General Hospital after graduation, from medical school, and then completed his residency in internal medicine in Rochester, New York, followed by a fellowship in cardiology.

Sir Frederick Ballantyne, GCMG, MD – Statesman, Medical Doctor, Scholar, Philanthropist, simply a humble, caring citizen of the world. to attend high school.

Having successfully completed his secondary education at the then Boys Grammar School, and matriculation for tertiary level studies, he was advised by an old friend to pursue his tertiary level studies in the USA. This was a break from the norm; Vincentian students more often than not chose to study in Britain and/or Canada.

His mind set on a career in medicine, Sir Frederick chose the United States and completed an initial degree in chemistry at Howard University (in Washington, D.C.), and then went on to the SUNY Upstate Medical University (in Syracuse, New York) to study medicine.

He was to find himself the sole black individual enrolled in that medical school, but that did not Breaking the norm prevent him from impressing himself on his Sir Frederick was the peers. He was soon first member of his family elected to the student SIR FREDERICK BALLANTYNE was born in the eastern coastal town of Layou, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, on July 5, 1936. He passed away in his beloved homeland, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, on January 23, 2020.

Sir Frederick was a former Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, serving in that capacity — Head of State — from 2002 — 2019.

He was an only child of Samuel and Olive Ballantyne, a prominent business couple in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Ballantynes, among other business endeavours, owned and operated Olive’s Hotel, a small hotel in capital Kingstown. Little wonder, therefore, that Sir Frederick often referred to himself as “coming from a business family”.

It may have come as part of his duties as Governor General, but Sir Frederick (right) looked forward to celebrating with our centenarians (centre).

remained active after his official retirement in a consulting role.

More than medicine

Outside of his career in the medical field, Sir Frederick had business interests in several other areas. Prior to being appointed GovernorGeneral, he served as President of the Millennium Bank, an offshore Impacting SVG’s health bank registered in Saint scene Vincent, and also as President of Dimethaid The young man from International Inc., a Layou returned to his pharmaceutical company native St. Vincent and the registered in Grenadines in 1971, and Barbados. He was also was soon appointed Chief the founder of of Medicine at the newly International Business constructed Kingstown Services Limited (IBS), a General Hospital (now financial services provider called the Milton Cato now run by his son, Memorial Hospital), the Marcus. He was also the country’s primary health co-owner of the Young care institution.

Island Resort.

In this position, he Appointed lobbied for and oversaw Governor-General the upgrades in the facilities of both the hospital and district health clinics. It was he who marshalled the expansion of the Hospital’s immunisation programme.

He also instituted the hospital’s Visiting Specialist Programme, which recruited overseas medical specialists to volunteer in Saint Vincent’s hospitals, in exchange for free accommodation in the country’s resorts. This has blossomed to the extent that this country is now the hub for the World Paediatric Programme (WPP), a ‘free’ tertiary level service to children here and in the rest of the OECS. Sir Frederick is also credited with working steadfastly to establish this country as a feasible location for Offshore Medical Schools and Colleges. There are currently four such institutions operating in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In 1985, Sir Frederick was appointed St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Chief Medical Officer. He served in that capacity, in addition to fulfilling his duties as a general practitioner and this country’s lone cardiologist, until 1992.

But that was not the end of his contribution to the development of health services here. He

Sir Frederick Ballantyne on his way to deliver one of his many Throne Speeches.

Dr. Frederick Ballantyne was sworn in as Governor-General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on 2 September 2002, having been nominated to the position by the country’s Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves.

He replaced Dame Monica Dacon, who had been acting Governor-General since the death of Sir Charles Antrobus in June 2002.

Later in the year 2002, in keeping with tradition

as it relates to the position of GovernorGeneral, he was made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George by Queen Elizabeth II. In June 2009, His Excellency Sir Frederick Ballantyne was awarded a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree by the University of the West Indies (UWI), as one of sixteen regional figures being recognised for their contributions with honorary degrees.

Sir Frederick fathered nine children.

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26. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Feature

Sir Frederick Ballantyne GCMG, MD

CONDOLENCES - ON THE PASSING OF FORMER GOVERNOR GENERAL SIR FREDERICK BALLANTYNE Grenadines, on the passing of Sir Frederick Ballantyne, elite former Governor General of Saint Vincent WE HAVE RECEIVED THE SAD and the Grenadines, who nobly served NEWS of H.E. Sir Frederick in that capacity during the period Ballantyne’s passing, and extend 2002-2019. condolences to his family and Embajada de la República compatriots. May he rest in peace, and Bolivariana de Venezuela en San may light perpetual shine upon him.

Vicente y Las Granadinas He has left an outstanding legacy and will be remembered fondly.

God bless. Love, Peace and THE FORMER USA AMBASSADOR TO Comfort,

KINGS – SVG PUBLISHERS

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Cheryl and Baldwin King

NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY

I last saw him in 2008 when I received the Caribbean Cadet Medal at his office in the Botanic Gardens.

In the late 1950s, he may have been the BGS opening bowler whose place I took after he left this institution.

Also, in 2002, the year he became Governor General and presided over a Caribbean Heads of State Conference in SVG, I was specially invited to speak by Dame Monica Dacon, while she was acting GG before he took office.

Friendliness marked all of the interactions I remember sharing with him. May his soul rest in peace.

Roy Austin

We are sad to learn of the passing of former Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sir Frederick Ballantyne.

Sir Frederick was this country’s longest serving Governor General, having served from 2002 to 2019, when he resigned due to ill health.

As a medical doctor, businessman and then Governor General, he used his time, energy and skill for the benefit of our people and the development of the country. He was both servant and nation-builder.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Red We deeply appreciate his contribution to the nation, and hope it Cross Society will serve as an inspiration to others.

Sir Frederick as a wise man of Our sympathy and love are with his tremendous stature and dignity. family. May his soul rest in peace.

His caring nature stood out and pointed to his heart for sick, the PRO/NDP disabled, young people and children.

He had a passion for sports and culture, and the fine arts, and there GOVERNMENT OF VENEZUELA was something of a teacher in him.

He had his own style, easy and The Government and People of the graceful and without fanfare.

Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, He always had time for artisans, through its Embassy in Saint Vincent and was one who didn’t waste time on and the Grenadines, wish to express long speeches. their most sincere and deepest condolences to the Government and Bernard Morgan People of Saint Vincent and the Red Cross Director

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 27.

Diaspora

Vincy ex-teachers celebrate Vernalyn Blencowe Vernalyn Blencowe – teacher, nurse, community/cultural activist.

and, above all, mother, mentor and friend.”

In his own special tribute, Jackson Farrell, President of St. Vincent & the Grenadines Ex-Teachers Association of THE BROOKLYN-BASED St. Vincent and New York, Inc., described Blencowe as the Grenadines Ex-Teachers Association “a fighter,” who “had strong beliefs of New York, Inc. two Sundays ago and strong faith in her God. … She dedicated its 37th anniversary gala was a Catholic and loved the country luncheon at Grand Prospect Hall in of her birth, SVG (St. Vincent and the Brooklyn, to the late Vernalyn Blencowe, Grenadines),… especially her place of a staunch executive member of the birth, Union Island.” group, community stalwart and cultural Judge Emille Cox, who resides in icon, who died on Jul. 20, 2019 and was New Jersey and was also born in interred on Aug. 3, 2019 in her native Union Island, said Blencowe was “a Union Island in the southern St. Vincent true ambassador not only for Union Grenadine islands. She was 79.

Island but for St. Vincent and the Blencowe’s professional career Grenadines as a whole.” spanned over 50 years of teaching both In his tribute to Blencowe, Dr. in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Herman Ambris, an executive member Brooklyn. of the ex-teachers group, wrote in a She was also a Licensed Practical poem: “Let there be music, let there be Nurse in New York, community song/ Let there be singing, bring more activist and poet, among other things. kids along/Let many gay colors blend In its souvenir journal for the as wind blows/Let joy and laughter annual celebration, Ex-Teachers and drumming expose/The spirit of one Association said Blencowe “had no Dedicated to LIFE/A colleague and tolerance for tardiness, procrastination friend a mother and wife/A sage in her or prevarication. own way, a light in the dark/A soul “She was refreshingly candid about that left footprints where ere she did her life, her frailties and her walk.” aspirations,” the group said. “But her Blencowe’s three children — Carl, angelic demeanor and infectious Eric and Maria — wrote in the journal laughter belied a formidable talent for that their mother was “always about discourse. She learned to be teaching,” adding that her teaching compassionate without being career “continued on pass her official condescending, and, in the process, retirement, when she returned to her developed excellent leadership skills Union Island and singlehandedly and ethical practices.” revived the big drum dancing, which is The Association also said that Union Island’s cultural pride and joy.”

Blencowe “benefited from lessons in The children said their mother “did generosity, loyalty, humility and this through songs, poems and comity — four fundamental principles dancing, with the focus on the youths.” that underpinned her persona, and which she exemplified as community leader, teacher, nurse, founding member of The St. Vincent & The Grenadines Ex-Teachers Association Story by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; kingnaking210@yahoo.com US CORRESPONDENT

Vernalyn Blencowe’s children, (L-R): Eric, Carl and Maria, with Dr. Herman Ambris (Photo Credit: Nelson King)

Vernalyn Blencowe makes a presentation of reading-related material to the Principal of the Stephanie Browne Primary School in her beloved Union island. (Photo Source: Radio Grenadines)

Speaking on behalf of the family at Sunday’s luncheon, Maria said: “To talk about Mrs. Vernalyn B. Blencowe in the past tense is a bit of an interesting position for all of us to be in, knowing the impact she made on so many of us and, most (more) importantly, what her contribution has (had) done for her country, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and her beloved, Union Island, of which she made sure you knew that she is (was) from Union Island, St. Vincent & the Grenadines.”

“However, her memory and the impact that she made on and in so

many of our lives will be a permanent memory for us all, and is permanently stapled in our hearts and souls,” she said.

“On behalf of her sons, daughtersin-law, brothers, sisters-in-law, sisters, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, grand-children and me, her only daughter, we thank the SVG ExTeachers Association for taking the time to recognize the late cultural icon and teacher,” Maria added.

2 . FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) An older loved one may be having problems. Trying to deal with your mate will be unproductive and possibly hurtful. You will be up and down emotionally. Sit back.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Dazzle them with your intellectual conversation. You can make money through your creative efforts. Dream a little this week. You can find solutions if you are willing to communicate.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Romance will unfold through business trips. Resist the temptation to gamble.

Risks will not be profitable. Keep your feelings to yourself if you want to avoid embarrassment. Proceed with caution if operating equipment or vehicles.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Your leadership qualities will come in handy. Stay mellow. Your mate may want to pick a fight but if you're persistent with your affections their anger should dissipate. You will have a great day if you just say what you feel.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Travel opportunities should be your first choice. Don't let yourself get rundown.

Balance is required if you want stability.

You can handle situations that require contact with institutions or large corporations.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Real estate investments could be prosperous. Exhaustion combined with overindulgence could result in minor health problems. You really can't do anything to change matters this week.

You may get upset with peers or relatives.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Don't jump too quickly regarding an investment that appears to be good.

Don't let others make you feel guilty or insecure. Don't get involved in secret affairs or underhanded involvements.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You will be able to contribute a great deal to organizations that you join.

Refrain from using the highway as a racetrack. Outings with relatives or good friends will provide you with stimulating conversation.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Do not let your mate annoy you; patience will be the key. You'll find it easy to talk about your feeling this week.

Don't hesitate to find out what your mate's intentions are. A little volleyball or other outdoor sports should be on your agenda.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Concern yourself with legal matters and formulating contracts rather than finalizing your objectives. Be sure that you have all the facts before you take action. Your ability to help others will win you points.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Pushy people must be kept at arm's length. Do what you can to help them but don't neglect your own family. You may find your mate somewhat perturbed. Loans will be attainable and legal matters easily taken care of.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You will meet some interesting people if you at tend promotional functions.

Financial limitations are likely if you take risks. Take a look at yourself and prepare to make those changes you've been contemplating.

ACROSS 1. Governed (a country) 4. Northern food fish 7. Closed 11. Forestry tool 12. Tel _, Israeli port 14. Bloodhound asset 15. Small opening 16. Office letter 17. Had to repay 18. Cigar enthusiast 20. Mortal combat 22. Move 23. List articles 27. Loafer adornment 31. Common tree 32. Folk legend Seeger 35. London bar 36. Actor Griffith 37. Enchanting Gardener 38. Poked 40. Temple leader 42. Catholic rite 45. Disgusted comment 47. Insist upon 49. Explorer Marco 52. Scent 54. Neither hide _ hair 55. Marine greeting 56. Strong flavor 57. Nine minus seven 58. Pen caps 59. Hive bug 60. African snake

8. “By what way?”

9. Exploit for selfish purposes 10. Journalist Koppel 13. Take a pledge 19. Flown toy 21. Be indisposed 24. Billion-year period 25. Crazy (about) 26. Blue expanse DOWN above 28. Luxurious 1. Lingers (behind) resort 2. School evaluation methods 29. Deli sandwich 3. Bus station 30. Grow weak 4. Photo device 32. Golf score 5. Concluded 33. Gabor of 6. Barely lit “Green Acres” 7. Pig grunt

34. Folder flap 36. Eden fellow 38. Irish dance 39. Rise (out of) 41. Harbor floats 43. Yule figure 44. Comes down in flakes

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 29.

46. Quite spicy 47. Sufficiently cooked 48. Tear blob 49. Butter portion 50. Gleeful cry 51. Chop (off) 53. Apply gently

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30. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

I want marriage Dear George, I AM IN a relationship for 8 years. My boyfriend and I are both in our 30s.

He gave me the impression that he wanted a family and a stable life, but now, whenever I mention the word marriage, he gets enraged.

Things got worse when I overheard him telling one of his male buddies that he will never get married until he is good and old. I confronted him on it, and he said it was a joke, so I challenged him to give an approximate date and time when he thinks he would be ready to get married to me.

He responded by asking why does it always have to be about marriage every time.

As you would expect, I am now doubtful about his intentions to ever settle down.

He said he needs more time, but that has been his anthem for some years now. What should I do?

Frustrated Dear Frustrated, Now that you know what he does not want, it is entirely up to you to follow through on what you want. If you feel you’re up to it to invest more time into a relationship that appears to be going nowhere, that’s your decision. However, since he cannot commit to an estimated time to settle, and given what you overhear him saying, I would say the writing is clearly on the wall.

It is now all up to you.

George

Getting what you deserve HIV some months ago, and was waiting for the right time to tell my WHO WOULD have husband. I am going to thought that I would be give him the pleasure of verbally assaulted by a telling her that news. I woman who is after my am sure it was my husband?

After denying that she husband who gave me this virus, since I have was not with my never cheated on him. husband, this woman I guess in the end, met me recently in everyone except me got Kingstown and warned what they deserved. me that I will soon lose my husband to her. She Saddened went on to tell me how much she is able to satisfy him in bed, giving Dear Saddened, him what I wouldn’t.

It is good that you George, what this woman does not know is have decided to let your that I tested positive for husband know of your status. It could very well

Dear George,

be that he never got tested and may not be aware that he could be infected. You should also encourage him to contact all those he might have cheated you with, to get tested.

Even at this stage, it does not signal the end of your marriage. I recommend that both of you immediately get counselling. Both of you are going to need emotional and psychological support to get through this challenging period.

George

Vincy men are failures Dear George,

looking for a man who is sexually efficient to finding a man who loves you unconditionally and who would commit to you for the rest of your life, things might turn out differently.

Once your hearts are knitted in love from the start, then you would be very supportive to each other when unexpected challenges pop up, including sexual dysfunction. This can be established by having that frank and pointed discussion on what you want from the relationship, at the beginning of the relationship.

More immediately, encourage your partner to seek medical help. This is always wiser than going outside the relationship to find sexual satisfaction.

WHAT IS WRONG with the young men in St.Vincent? The last three men I have dated all have problems when it came to the business of the bedroom. My present boyfriend cannot give me more than 2 minutes of selfish sex, but accuses me of not being able to stimulate him, which is why he is the way he is. I was so dissatisfied, I went out on him a few times and I am not any better off, as the men I have been with all have problems.

George, the men are all looking big and powerful, but are unable to take care of business. I am very fed up, and need to know what to do in order to find a man who can sexually satisfy George me.

Tired!

Dear Tired, Maybe if you shift your focus from

V 25 years: From RRL to YRM

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 31.

Feature

“ ‘TWAS LIKE YESTERDAY that the Rainbow Radio League – (RRL) was formed, but 25 years have passed since the selfless volunteers who make up the RRL have provided emergency radio communications services to SVG and the wider Caribbean region”, so said Director of the Rainbow Radio League Inc, Donald De Riggs during a get together to mark their 25th anniversary, on January 22, 2020.

The RRL was launched on January 22, 1995 from the summit of Mt. St. Andrews, when five energetic and zealous radio amateurs announced to the world via ham radio, that the Rainbow Radio League was formed.

Those five were: Albert Browne — J88CT, David De Bique — J88CR, Paul Lowman — J88DF, Sean Patterson — J88CU and Donald De Riggs — J88CD. As soon as we set up the SSB radio, and amidst a downpour of rain, the first person to answer our call and welcome the new organisaation was Vincent Bacchus KA2CPA from New York.

Name change and anniversary activities When the RRL was formed in 1995, members opted to carry the name Rainbow — the interpretation of one of SVG’s indigenous names Youlou. And while the

YRM members (“Colours”) pose for 25th anniversary group pic.

Inset: J85M - Claude Richards, oldest active Ham in SVG, proposing toast to the YRM.

name Rainbow Radio League Inc. has served to establish the organization as part of the Vincentian landscape, members have now opted for a name change, that being the Youlou Radio Movement (YRM) , giving it an even more entrenched national appeal.

With that new impetus, the 25th anniversary celebration took on a sense of renewal.

The first activity was a meeting of the Movement on January 22, 2020.

Each member was presented an anniversary T-shirt. Time was spent thereafter in reflecting on how far the group had come and what lay ahead.

Another activity was held in Grenada on January 24 to coincide with a memorial service, officiated by Vincentian Rev. Sylbert Prescod, for a well-known and avid radio amateur and aircraft engineer Allan Otway — J39AH. His wife was presented with a posthumous award for his service to the Caribbean.

YRM Director Don De Riggs paying tribute to the late Allan Otway - J39AH.

Also receiving an award during the memorial service was the Grenada Cooperative bank.

The YRM will hold its awards ceremony in November 2020.

Looking ahead Through the years, members of the RRL/YRM have provided volunteer service in post disaster scenarios in Grenada after Ivan; in St. Lucia working alongside Red Cross volunteers; and more recently in Dominica post hurricane Maria in 2017, as part of a joint medical and emergency communications response team.

The number of volunteers has grown from five to way past forty, but to that figure we can add the many supporters: captains of fishing, pleasure boats, and inter-island ferries, pilots and owners of private airlines, mechanics, truck drivers, bankers, farmers, engineers.

The work of the RRL/YRM, though, has been effective only because of the support and dependence on other agencies, service providers, etc.

Towards reducing its dependence, the RRL/YRM has identified the need for it to acquire its own aircraft and rescue boats. With that type of asset acquisition, the organisation looks forward to operating from a main base on mainland St. Vincent, with sub—bases in the Grenadines.

In this its 25tth year, the Director and members of the YRM recognise the dedication of all members, the support of sponsors (not least the business community), and in particular the support provided by Barrett Communications from Australia, who provided SSB radio equipment,

some of which was used while responding to the emergency communications needs in Dominica after Hurricane ‘Maria’.

The YRM, according to Director de Riggs, will need the support of civil society and the commercial sector, if it is to deliver even more effectively on its role as a first responder

organization, providing support to agencies like NEMO, SVG Coast Guard, SVG Fire Services and the maritime community in general.

The YRM will mark its 25th anniversary with the slogan ‘Celebrate with us’ and its thanksgiving anthem ‘Give a thanks’

by Mykal Rose.

Submitted by : Donald De Riggs

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32. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Education

Diabetes screening for SMSS teachers

by GLORIAH… WEDNESDAY 15TH JANUARY was a revealing day as far as the health of the teachers at the St. Martin’s Secondary School (SMSS) was concerned.

On that day, the teachers received free Diabetes screening, compliments Beverly Reddock and Cheril Dixon, vice president and member respectively of the Diabetes and Hypertensive Association of St.

Vincent and the Grenadines.

Mrs. Lucy Theobalds, Counsellor at the School, expressed delight with the initiative. “Yes, there is only one student at this school diagnosed with this condition,” she said, “but today, our teachers will be screened. We usually have a health day for the teachers, and this comes just in time.”

As it was, teachers seized the opportunity to be screened, doing so in an orderly manner.

Rev. Colin Jackson, recently ordained Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church and Religious Education teacher at the SMSS, was the first to be screened.

In a show of gratitude and acknowledgement, he said, “The presence of representatives from the Diabetes and Hypertensive Association at SMSS caused a buzz of excitement among members of staff, as a wave of encouragement flowed through for all to participate. I was very happy to receive a blood sugar result that was normal. What a relief!”

Association reaching out

Principal Johance Gibson accepts donation of supplies from Beverly Reddock.

In response to why the drive was organized, Reddock told THE VINCENTIAN, “Diabetes is a very serious disease that is prevalent in SVG. Our main goal is to assist persons with the condition. Schools are always on our agenda. We have

testing supplies here that have been donated by the SVG Be Fit Movement, and these we give to students identified in schools who suffer from Type One diabetes. There is only one such child at this school, and we will hand these (supplies) over to the Principal for that child.”

The Diabetes and Hypertensive Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has been around for a long time, according to Reddock, but had become dormant.

It was revamped five or so years ago and, according to Reddock, its purpose can be seen in its outreaches.

“We go out into the communities to screen persons to find those who do not actually know that they are diabetic. Those who know could sometimes be very careless, but to find those who don’t know is very important. We could get them to be aware of their condition, and send them to a medical facility where they could be put on a management programme,” Reddock elaborated.

She was adamant that the number of persons suffering with the condition outweighed the facilities available to

Rev. Colin Jackson’s diabetes was first up for a screening. establish and document that reality, so the Diabetes and Hypertensive Association was playing its part in assisting identifying persons with the disease.

These outreaches have now been reinforced by donations from the local Be Fit Movement which is committed to be advocates in the fight against diabetes, more specifically Type 1 (juvenile) diabetes.

The SVG Diabetes and Hypertensive Association next move?

To another community in search of those who are not aware of their condition, and to encourage those suffering from it, to manage it properly.

The ten finalists with Winner Camelia Harry (left back), 2nd placed Shandell Baptiste (right front) and third placed Darrano Louie (right back).

Lower Bay Primary wins Writing Competition CAMELIA HARRY of the Lower Bay Primary School Bequia, wrote her way to the top of the 2020 Ministry of Education, National Reconciliation and Information Grade Six Writing Competition.

Harry, who wrote on the topic, ‘Convincing your parents to have a beach picnic for your birthday’, came up against nine other finalists last Tuesday afternoon at Frenches House.

At the Closing and Presentation Ceremony held immediately following the finals, Harry collected her trophies along with a Chromebook.

Placing second was Shandell Baptiste of the Kingstown Anglican.

His topic of choice was, ‘How to prepare your favourite meal’, and completing the top three was Darrano Louie of the Chateaubelair Methodist School.

Baptiste and Louis each got a trophy and an Amazon Fire Tablet.

The other finalists were Jason Adams- Fitz Hughes Government;

Sherryka Springer- Colonaire Primary, Jaiden Toby of the Argyle Primary, Claudia Lovelace of the Questelles Government, Jurnee Massicott - Georgetown Government, with the Barrouallie Government represented by Jirdeh Fife, and from the Windsor Primary, Sydelle Campbell.

The ten finalists emerged from a total of forty-one (41) participants in the preliminary phase, which took place on Tuesday morning.

Last Tuesday’s writing Competition had the backing of Hodder Education, who was represented by Byron Wilson.

Apart from Wilson, addressing last Tuesday’s Presentation were CEO of the Curriculum Unit- Aldia GumbsDyer and Education Officer for Language, Literacy and Communication- Susanne Lewis.

Amara Adams of the Cane End Government School won last year’s Competition.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 33.

News

Dr. Frederick Nathaniel Ballantyne Has Left Us

Presentation College.

In the front of the photo particularly at the Olives from left to right are Cammie Hotel owned by the King, Orminston Boyea Balantynes, at which Blackett (wicket keeper,) Melvin Cuffy used to live for some months (captain), Ken John (viceafter being dismissed from the captain) and Carl “Per Wee” school for some administrative Glen. At the back in no reason. particular order are Vanrick We were also strong in Alexander, Leslie Davy, sports, with cricket being the Ashford Lewis and Freddie primary game for Freddie and Balantyne. myself. I have included a In those matches, there picture of the 1955 Grammar were some striking instances: School team that played in the Presentation match, against two Barbadian teams, Cammie King, our opening Harrison College and bowler, his first 5 deliveries Continued from Page 8.

were hit for 4s by opening batsman Standiford , who after became the Prime Minister of Barbados, who was clean bowled after the last ball.

Secondly, in the Harrison match, we got a glimpse of Teddy Griffith’s left arm medium pace, which would have gotten him on the West Indies team later down.

Shortly after, early in the 1960s, Freddie left SVG for North America to study cardiology which he accomplished with flying colours. In Canada, he was hosted by Vincentians, including my family of the Maules who hailed from Chauncey, also George Richardson also from Chauncey, Alfie Roberts and Arnhim Eustace.

In the interim, I too had gone abroad and returned with qualifications in law and politics, and had set up shop in time to welcome Freddie back home. He entered the hospital authorities and moved up the line in quick time with efficiency, flair and commitment.

He also joined our group the Flambeau, in which he took part in writing articles and

engaging in current discussions. It would appear that I ran afoul when I published an article by Alfie Roberts responding aggressively to another article which was interpreted as anti negro. After that, we didn’t see much of Freddie, but we followed his progress up the ladder until he became in charge of medical facilities.

But there was one occasion from which I personally concluded that Freddie can make some potential high grade contribution to this country.

In May 1972, the result of election in the words of ‘Leader’, showed that “two parties ran and none ah dem win”. In fact, the Labour Party won 6 seats, the PPP won 6, with Mitchell winning his Bequia seat as an independent. I had to give up my job as MC at Carlyle Dougan’s wedding reception held at Mr Bacchus’ residence because of the inner stirring of the parties. I concluded that if I appeared in that post, there would be an outburst of that stifled anger. So I took the bride and groom and advised that it would be safer if they approached someone else to

host the reception. I suggested that they ask no other than Freddie Ballantyne.

Ballantyne in fact made a masterful performance by interjecting jokes and keeping anything political at bay. I learn from that reception that Freddie can handle any political situation with calm and balance.

I need only add that on the next day Sunday at Parnell’s home, I received a call from Mitchell in Bequia, stating he would like Kerwyn Morris, Parnell Campbell and myself to join him and a delegation from the Labour Party and the PPP who came to hold talks with him.

Meanwhile, Dr. Freddie Balantyne continued in his enlightened approaches until he was finally chosen as Head of State in 2002 in tight political situations that demanded his training, skills and calm.

He so performed until death. It is a great pity that I could not in any way talk with him during the critical part of his illness. I too was afflicted with serious malign which I likened playfully to Audie Murphy’s “To Hell and Back”.

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34. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN

News

International Customs Day 2020

“Fostering sustainability for people, prosperity and the planet” OVER THE PAST DECADE and a half, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Customs and Excise have joined the Brussels based World Customs Organization (WCO) in celebrating International Customs Day on January 26th each year. It is a special moment where we unite to remember and to celebrate the significant

contributions made by Customs Officials and the Customs organizations in general, whose daily work greatly affects the economy, health and security of our beautiful SVG. This year, we celebrate considering the significance of the theme chosen by the WCO; “Customs fostering Sustainability for people,

prosperity and the planet”.

Each day, Customs is engaged in activities that are focused on the development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Customs do important work aiming to satisfy the needs of the present without compromising the capacity of future generations. The

protection and collection of government revenue, facilitation of trade and travel, and protection of our borders are activities that would guarantee the balance between economic growth, care for the environment and social well-being.

The global political economy, the impact of climate change and the

archipelagic nature of our country remain constant challenges as we seek to fulfill our mandate. For 2020, the Department will focus on strengthening Trade Facilitation, enhancing organizational effectiveness and to broaden and deepen relationships with all stakeholders, locally, regionally and internationally.

Customs will continue to advance its Risk Management and Post Clearance Audit programmes. The improvement of our Risk Management programmes are aimed at reducing clearance times while improving customs controls. The aim is to focus customs control on consignments which present a higher degree of risk, while quickly releasing low risk consignments through the use of ICT. The Department will now minimize human intervention and subjectivity in the selection process, thereby promoting fair trade and transparency in keeping with the World Trade Organization (WTO) trade facilitation agenda.

Risk Management therefore has now afforded compliant importers the opportunity of taking possession of their consignments void of any customs inspections.

Customs also has plans for the installation and commissioning of a non-intrusive palletized scanner in Port Kingstown for 2020. This initiative would also improve clearance speed as well as increase security. The Department will also commence a phased approach to a Single Window Facility. This platform provides for a one stop shop for importers to process all import and export documentation.

2020 will also see a strong focus placed on strengthening Customs legislations and regulatory reforms. The Revised Structure of the Common External Tariff (CET) based on the 2017 Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System will be included in the 2020 legislative agenda. It takes into consideration both environmental and social

issues of global concern.

It will also reflect the changes in international trade patterns and advances in technology.

Complementing the introduction of the new revised CET will be the commissioning of a New Customs Bill which is fashioned after the CARICOM Harmonized Customs Legislation.

Finally, we are determined to broaden and deepen relationships with stakeholders in all sectors, by maintaining open channels of communication, collaboration and mutual assistance. The work of the Customs is influenced by the global environment, and so must take a holistic approach in order to do our part to promote a better world.

The Department has decided to celebrate International Customs Day with a number of activities. A Church Service at the New Testament Church at Wilson began the week On Sunday 26th January, with a blessing and encouragement for the staff. We were welcomed by the students of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College Division of Arts and Sciences and the Technical Division to make presentations on the Roles and Functions of Customs. An exhibition to raise public awareness would be held on Friday, January 31st, 2020 outside of the Customs Canteen. On Saturday, February 1st a social activity designed to show appreciation for Customs Officers will be held. We recognize their exemplary service to the organization and to the nation.

The Customs and Excise Department would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff, all our clients and stakeholders for their understanding, support and cooperation throughout 2019. We solicit your cooperation in the future as we work together for a more sustainable St. Vincent and the Grenadines and a truly bright and prosperous future.

Mr. Selwyn Da Silva Comptroller of Customs (Ag.)

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 35.

CurrencyÊs century ensures points for Saints

ROMEL CURRENCY hit his first century of the 2020 season and helped his Guardian General Saints team to first innings honours over FLOW Rivals, in a weekend NLA Premier Division match of the National Cricket Competition.

Currency hit 109 in a total of 200 for 7, to help his team overhaul FLOW Rivals’ 194 for 9.

Lindon James topscored for FLOW Rivals with 64 and Olanzo Jackson took 4 Saints wickets for FLOW Radcliffe’s Asif Hooper had a match haul of 7 for 97.

89 runs.

At the Sion Hill, FLOW Radcliffe took first innings points over Police Two. Police Two made 188. Salvan Browne topscored with 75. Leg spinner Asif Hooper was the pick of FLOW Radcliffe bowlers with figures of 5 for 69. FLOW Radcliffe responded with 240, recovering from 69 for 5 at one stage - Shamon Hooper and Othniel Lewis 47 each, Romario Bibby 4 for 40.

Trailing by 52 runs, Police Two were 90 for 5 when the match was called.

Andrew Thomas was not out 40.

Rasheed Fredericks took 3 for 29 and Asif Hooper 2 for 28.

Romel Currency hit 109 for Saints.

Students, Police in tense battle FRENCH VERANDAH SVG Community College beat Police One by nine runs in what was the most tense match to date in the 2020 NLA 50 Overs First Division Cricket Competition.

Playing at Arnos Vale Two, the College made 246 in 39.2 overs, inspired by a 4th wicket partnership of 108 between Tilron Harry 71 and Rayshone Durrant 67. Donson Andrews picked up 5 for 66.

Police in a spirited pursuit of victory, just may have cracked under some late pressure and closed at 237 from 39 overs. Vertil Davis top scored with 71 and Parnel Browne 58. Azar

Williams bagged 5 for 51 and Aleon Ceasar 3 for 54.

At Buccament, Keegan’s Bequia XI got past Victors Two by 51 runs.

Scores: Keegan’s Bequia XI made 162 in 30.1 overs - Olanzo Lavia 48.

Kishore Shallow bagged 5 for 17, Ian Allen took 3 for 27; Victors Two 111 in 21.2 overs - Jenry Ollivierre 5 for 15.

At Cumberland, C.J Jules Anthony MSDA Northern Stars earned a fourwickets win over Coreas Distribution Belfongo; Scores: Belfongo 169 from 29 overs. Renrick Williams 50, Maxwell Edwards 6 for 37.; Northern Stars 170 for 6 from 28.5 overs - McLeon Williams 45, Newborn Joseph 33 and

Allison Samuel 24 not out.

North Windward Combine overcame Radcliffe Two at London by 74 runs. Scores: North Windward Combine 126 in 22.4 overs - Shem Browne hit 41, Daveian Barnum took 3 for 37; Radcliffe Two 52. Kerwin Williams 3 for 4.

Vee Jay’s Roof Top and Bar North Windward defeated Strike Eagles by 80 runs at Stubbs. Scores: North Windward 176 in 22.4 overs Tilron Harry 71 Mickron Mc Donald hit 49, Tyson was instrumental Richards 3 for 16; Strike Eagles 96 in College innings. in 22.3 overs - Kevin Peters 43, Jernoth Brackin took 5 for 17.

Three newcomers in Female Cricket Squad

THREE NEWCOMERS have been included in a 13member National Female Cricket Team to represent this country in the Windward Islands Female Limited Overs Cricket Tournament, slated for St Lucia from February 1 — 6.

Those expecting to make their debuts are off spinners Allison Antoine and Xharia Jack, and fast bowler Isha Williams.

West Indies batters Cordel Jack and Juliana Nero have been entrusted with responsibilities of leading the batting unit, with Captain Stacy Ann Adams, Kemorne Homer, Japhina Joseph completing that unit.

Vinisha King will lead the fast bowling unit and in addition to newcomer Williams, will have Kemone Homer and Samantha Caine Allison Antoine off to bolster that area. spinner

The spin bowling department will be led by Jennila Glasgow with assistance from Cordel Jack and newcomers Antoine and Jack.

Captain Adams is confident the team will win both titles. “We expect nothing else than a win in both formats this year”.

Xharia Jack off As the defending champions in spinner the 50 overs, Adams believes the team’s style of play could be a plus for the T20 format.

“The teams have been scoring fast in the 40 overs, so we just need to maintain this approach with slight adjustment,” Adams said.

She believes host St Lucia might be the toughest opponent.

The tournament runs from February 1st to the 6th.

Stories I.B.A.ALLEN

Isha Williams fast medium bowler.

Jenry Ollivierre took 5 wickets to help Bequia win.

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36. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Vincentians medal at Barbados Athletics Meet ULANDA LEWIS won the Girls’ Under-17 100 metres at last Saturday’s Joseph Payne Memorial Classic Athletics Championships, held at the Barbados National Stadium.

Lewis’ winning time was 12.19 seconds.

In the process, she made the 2020 Carifta 100m standard set by Team Athletics SVG. The qualification for the event is 12.25 seconds.

A double bronze medallist at last year’s Junior Carifta Games staged in

the Cayman Islands, Lewis, a student of the Central Leeward Secondary School, and a member of the High Performance Club, finished second in the Under-20 200m.

She finished in a time of 24.86 seconds, thus also making the Carifta standards. Team Athletics SVG has set 24.98 seconds as the qualification.

Another young Vincentian track and field prospect Nellie Ambriton, of the St Vincent Grammar School and XCel Track Club, also copped a gold

medal last Saturday evening, when he took the Under-17 400m in 50 seconds.

Amal Glasgow Ambriton was third in the 800m as well. His time was 2 minutes 00.34 seconds.

Meanwhile, Amal Glasgow, also of the St Vincent Grammar School and X- Cel Track Club, was third in the 400m, finishing in 50.72 seconds.

Other Vincentian athletes who

Nellie Ambriton

Ulanda Lewis

competed at last Saturday’s Classic, were Verrol Sam of the St Vincent Grammar School and X- Cel Track Club, and Jodeisha Samuel of the Girls’ High School and High Performance Club.

IT DAT receives donation founder, director and head coach, during a break in an IT DAT training session at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.

“We at the Toronto SVG Support Group have been following the progress of Ollivierre closely for a while now, and we decided this is something that we want to work with, so this is just the beginning”, Bowman said at the handing over.

Bowman went on to say that the group recognizes Ollivierre as “one of the best coaches around,” and that they Ricky Bowman, are impressed with the representative of fact that IT DAT is not Toronto SVG Support all about athletics, but Group, spoke of his more importantly about group’s recognition of developing the the contribution IT DAT individual. was making to the Ollivierre, 2019 Coach overall development of of the Year, remarked, “I young people. am very grateful for this donation. It is not very It Dat Athletics Academy often that people who are based abroad, find has benefited from a interest in things we do timely monetary here, so I am very donation. appreciative of it The donation was (donation); it will go a handed over by Ricky long way.”

Bowman, a Vincentian He quipped, “I residing in Canada, on suppose they have been behalf of Toronto SVG reading the papers and Support Group, and following the progress of received by Michael the athletes, especially Ollivierre, IT DAT’s

those who have gone off on scholarships abroad as well, as some progress of the Academy with very little funds to operate with.”

I.B.A.ALLEN Michael Olliverre (left) accepts donation from Ricky Bowman.

SVGBF hosts coaching courses THE SAINT VINCENT and the Grenadines Basketball Federation (SVGBF) recently concluded the first phase of its three-phase Development of a National Sports Structure Programme.

The first phase culminated on Friday 24th January, 2020 with a closing ceremony at the in the Music Centre Conference Room, this after commencing on January 13 with a two-day Introductory Coaching Course, involving some 7 participants.

This was followed by World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC) FIBA Level 1 Coaching Course. This course allowed for participation by a maximum of 15 persons, but the Course progressed successfully with eight.

The eight were: Bernard Billy, Vasha Adams, Aubrey ‘Darwin’ Vanloo, Conrad Simon, Wayne Williams, Westfield Williams, Solan Frederick and Kendale Thomas.

The Courses were facilitated by Coach Nelson Isley, a FIBA WABC Certified Instructor who is no stranger to SVGBF, he having made several visits to St. Vincent and conducted several courses and assessments.

At the start of the course, Coach Isley pledged to reach out to his network at FIBA and other

Coaches who successfully completed FIBA Level 1 Coaching Course (from left) Bernard Billy, Vasha Adams, Aubrey ‘Darwin’ Vanloo, Conrad Simon, Wayne Williams, Westfield Williams, Solan Frederick and Kendale Thomas. Coach Nelson Isley is seated. international organisations to garner assistance for the SVGBF. He is expected to provide an assessment report to the SVGBF to be shared with the Government and private stakeholders.

This report, according to a news release from the SVGBF, is expected to be used as the basis of a drive to solicit funding for the renovations, repairs and

development of the basketball sporting facilities across SVG. The second phase of the Development of a National Sports Structure programme, which is sponsored by Olympic Solidarity funding through the National Olympic Committee, will run from March 26th to April 8th 2020.

I.B.A.ALLEN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 37..

Sports

Sir Frederick

SEEMS LIKE we have to change this column to Graveyard. A pattern is emerging where tributes are paid to sometimes more than one person weekly.

It is unkind to neglect Sir Frederick Ballantyne this week. I got closer to Sir Frederick through his namesake Freddie Finch. I noted the bond between the two, perhaps cemented by their names.

Sir Frederick accepted him into his fold, for his legacy has been defined, marked by his affability.

He called me Kojah to signify the informal nature of our rapport. He kept his humility no matter how high he ascended.

Since his acceptance of the post of Governor General, he added his own aura of dignity to the position. His record stands out. There are few aspects of national development that Sir Frederick has not played a hand in.

The World Paediatric Project stands out as a platform of international solidarity. A number of persons turned up from the international arena to express their condolences to the departed icon. If a medical school, in this case, Trinity University could produce an orchestra to join in a host of musical outfits paying tribute to him, he must have created an impact. Sir Frederick was the Vincentian godfather of medicine.

Rick Mc Donald blasted off the musical interlude with his trumpet. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Band maintained a soothing atmosphere, and for a moment it hardly appeared that it was a funeral service. It appeared more like a classical concert. And with Trinity University tuning it, the agenda broadened.

The Government House has become something of a centre for the performing arts over the years.

Sir Frederick maintained his connection to arts and culture. He served as promoter for many an ensemble as well as individuals.

His attachment to matters of heritage was not confined to music. It embraced the full ambit of culture, and fashion, art, and cuisine aroused his interest.

The performance of the group Resonance at Sir Frederick’s funeral is another testimony of his connection to the traditional arena. Resonance is a group of youngsters who have created an impact on the national front.

Sir Frederick has adopted the outfit and is something of a father figure to them. No wonder the group was keen on ensuring their presence at the funeral service.

There were also choirs: Cantemus and New Kingstown Chorale. They added their flair of melody and charm to the occasion. Sir Frederick has been hailed as a ‘saint’ by Montgomery Maule who fulfilled Sir Frederick’s request and delivered the sermon.

Sir Frederick is this country’s longest serving Head of State. His stint from September 2, 2002 to August 1, 2019 subscribes to that record.

He replaced Monica Dacon who filled a threemonth gap after Sir Charles Antrobus left the office June 3, 2002, having assumed the post June 1, 1996.

The position of Head of State is one of power and prestige. And while Sir Frederick occupied the position for so long, there was never any suggestion that either of those factors altered his course of direction. He added an aura of grace and dignity, elements of his natural possessions.

The stability which the nation enjoyed even in times of potential turbulence, could be attributed to Sir Frederick’s calming influence.

He was a sports enthusiast. Everyone can attest to that. He was a stylish stroke maker. I never saw him on the actual field of play, but I had a glimpse of his prowess when he flexed his muscles at the Mt Wynne beach on some of his sojourns.

Others have testified of his efforts at procuring scholarships for young footballers here.

The cross section of citizens who turned up for his farewell is evidence of the love and respect he engendered.

BYS hosts Awards Ceremony THE BEQUIA YOUTH SOCCER (BYS), last Friday night, hosted its Presentation and Awards Ceremony for its 2019 Bequia Football League.

Taking the award for the Most Improved Player in the Under-10 Division was Rayne Duncan of Olympic Youths, with Damian Lewis of Combine Youths named Best Goal Keeper and Luke Duncan of Future Stars, who scored 15 goals, copping the Most Goals Award.

Future Stars won the League title, ahead of Uprising Youthssecond; Olympic Youths- third and Combine Youths- fourth.

Future Stars also won the Knock Out title.

In the Under-13 Division, Future Stars’ Odain Hazell was

adjudged Most Improved Player; Young Stars’ Royal BoatswainBest Goal Keeper, and the Most Goals awardee was Damian Miller of Young Stars, with 11 goals.

Future Stars won the League title Zonal Championships winners- West. and Young Stars, the Knock and Shemar Out. Quashie- Best Meanwhile, West won the Goal Keeper.

Under-17 League title, with Additionally, SOUTH Westthe Most second.

Marlon Simmons Disciplined Player in each of South West was of the the leading goal scorer with 7 goals. competing And in the Senior teams in the Zonal Competition, age group competitions which was won by were rewarded.

West, with South Four teams placing second, contested the Derek Peniston of Under-10 West securing the Division, four Most Goals Award each in the Most Goals Under-13 and Under- 13 Young StarsUnder-17 and DivisionUnder-13 Division five in the Damian Miller.

Knock Out Zonal champions.

Championships.

GSS chases sixth Volleyball title… GHS seeks hattrick The Georgetown Secondary School (GSS) Male team is chasing its sixth straight Secondary Schools’ Volleyball title, with the Girls’ High School (GHS) trying to make it three successive liens on the Female title.

Standing in the way of the GSS’ record six successive titles are outfits from the St Vincent Grammar School, the West St George Secondary, the George Stephens Senior Secondary, Thomas Saunders Secondary and the Central Leeward Secondary.

The West St George Secondary, the George Stephens Senior Secondary, the Georgetown Secondary, the Thomas Saunders Secondary, the Central Leeward Secondary and the Bethel High

School, will try to deny the GHS’ hattrick.

When the Championships opened last Friday at the Girls’ High School’s court, the GSS team (Mixed male and female), won the one- set competition.

Matches in the Championships are scheduled for the Girls’ High School venue, the GSS Auditorium, the Gomea Methodist School hard court and the George Stephens Senior Secondary School’s court.

This is the ninth edition of the Secondary Schools’ Volleyball Competition since its revival in 2012.

The tale of the titles shows the George Stephens Senior Secondary School winning the Male title in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Since then, 2015 — 2019, the Georgetown The GSS Mixed Team on the go in the One – Set competition last Friday at the Girls’ High School hard court.

The Girls’ High School, defending Female champions.

The GSS’ Male outfit, seeking their sixth straight title.

Secondary School has dominated among the males.

In the Female Division, the St Joseph’s Convent Kingstown triumphed in 2012 and repeated in 2013.

The Georgetown Secondary ruled from 2014 to 2017, before the Girls’ High School hoisted the titles in 2018 and 2019.

3 . FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2020. 39.

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OSCAR CODOUGAN: A SPECIAL COFFIN MAKER

by WILLIAM KOJAH ANTHONY OSCAR CODOUGAN etched himself into the annals of Vincentian history.

It was he who fulfilled former Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne’s wish that he be laid to rest in a coffin made from breadfruit wood.

Codougan recalled beginning the building of the coffin the same day (Thursday 23rd January) Sir Frederick died.

He confessed that breadfruit board “is not easy to plane. It dull(s) the machine fast.”

But he has no qualms about using breadfruit wood. He recounted the breadfruit leaf as being part of the original Independence flag, and considers the tree as an historic The handiwork plant. of Oscar A joiner Codougan – a fulfilment of the originally from Rose Place, wish of Sir Kingstown, Frederick.

Codougan described Sir Frederick Ballantyne as being “like a father to me.”

Speaking after the interment of Sir Frederick last Wednesday, he said Sir Frederick and he established a bond some forty years ago.

“He helped me a long way. He made sure work was provided for me. I worked with him all over, on his yacht, his home, his office,” Codougan recalled.

Sir Frederick in his view was “somebody you could depend on. He start(ed) me out with a workshop, helped with purchasing land, and building a house. He was a patriotic Vincentian.”

Oscar Codougan – the coffin maker enjoyed a special bond with former Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne.

Eggs, eggs and more eggs

by CARLYLE DOUGLAS & DAYLE DA SILVA IT IS NOW a well-established fact that this country’s poultry farmers and wholesalers and retailers have had to reduce the asking price for their eggs.

THE VINCENTIAN understands that eggs are now going for $10.00 a flat (30 eggs,) with indications that it could get as low as $6.00.

This is the result of a demand and supply situation in which the supply far exceeds the demand, even at Christmas when the demand for eggs traditionally increases.

And because of the glut, the price of eggs did not increase at Christmas as

is the normal occurrence.

According to well-known businessman Leon ‘Bigga Biggs’ Samuel, who is a restauranteur and exporter of agricultural produce to neighbouring islands, there is an overpopulation of laying birds in the state, with as many as 100,000 still laying, he estimates.

Whatever, according to Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar, as he addressed Parliament on January 22, discussions have commenced with egg importers in Trinidad and Tobago to establish a line of sale of eggs to that country.

These discussions hit something of a snag, when it was discerned that the

two main importers had already signed contracts with suppliers in the US up to December 2019.

Further, transportation cost for eggs from SVG was comparatively higher and irregular.

According to Caesar, poultry and egg production has been emphasized as the ministry encouraged farmers to diversify their produce.

He said that in 2019, 24,000 layer chicks were provided to local farmers from the government hatchery, and that between January and September last year, 60,000 layer chicks were imported from Barbados.

As such, he said, his ministry, as early as April, had identified an

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

Consumers here have been enjoying a season of good fortune as they cash in on the extraordinary reduction in the price of eggs. increase in production and begun to address the potential of export.

It is anticipated, according to one poultry farmer,that the knock down price for eggs could continue well into the first quarter of the year.

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