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FRIDAY,

FEBRUARY 06, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.06

The time had come for the issue of reinstating Samuel’s mining licence to be addressed from another perspective, the leader of the opposition said, because he was not convinced that government was going to make a decision, especially in light of the amount of publicity the matter had received.

“I assume they have no intention at this stage of resolving that matter, and their concern is now elections in St Vincent and the Grenadines, not ‘Bigger Biggs’,” Eustace opined.

He said that, having already made the statement, he was not going to say anything further on the matter at this point.

Samuel’s licence to operate a mining concern at Rabacca was revoked in 2011, with the authorities citing breaches in the environmental soundness of the operation, as the basis for the decision.

This resulted in cessation of the mining operations and closure of a Arnhim Eustace, Leader of the related block-making business which Opposition, says that government is more interested in the next elections Samuel had operated for some time rather than moving to settle the Leon before he even started the mining at Rabacca.

‘Bigger Biggs’ Samuel’s issue.

And although Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves stated, by way of a

by DAYLE DA SILVA press briefing, that Cabinet had reversed the decision to revoke LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION ARNHIM Samuel’s mining licence in November EUSTACE says that he does not believe that the government has any intention to last year, government has since stated that permission was not granted for settle the issue with businessman Leon Samuel to resume his mining ‘Bigger Biggs’ Samuel. operations.

He made the point last Monday during the New Democratic Party’s ‘New Times’ Radio Programme, adding Moving forward that it was impossible for any However, Prime Minister Dr Ralph government to have taken this long to Gonsalves, during the wrap up session make a decision on the matter. of the 2015 Budget debate, said that “I don’t believe that there is any he had spoken to the Permanent intention of settling with ‘Bigger Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Biggs’,” Eustace said.

“Every time it appears that there is and the Attorney General, who he said something likely to happen, they have he believed should have already another spanner thrown in the works,” received the relevant documents regarding the Samuel issue, and that he continued.

www.thevincentian.com

she was expected to advise Cabinet.

Gonsalves further mentioned in the House that he met with Samuel and other persons on January 28, and that they had subsequently written to him expressing their gratitude regarding some decisions that had been taken at the meeting that are aimed at moving forward the process to have Samuel resume his business operations.

Based on the letter, which was read by the Prime Minister, and coming out of the discussions, the consensus was reached on a view put forward by Senator Julian Francis, former Minister of Works, that there was no requirement for a quarry licence to be issued, and therefore, the “legal and bureaucratic processes involved in declaring the area a quarry site, including measures required to be taken by the operators to facilitate such a process” were entirely redundant.

It was also agreed that with regard to the government’s commitment to facilitate technical and financial support for the restoration of Bigger Trucking and Block Construction Company, a statement of requirements toward resuming operations be prepared by the company’s technical team, and upon completion, a copy be submitted to the Prime Minister. Following this, a meeting will be convened to discuss the requirements of the various elements of the operation and the government’s contribution.

The issue of possible compensation to workers affected by the abrupt closure was also mentioned; however, Dr. Gonsalves explained that this issue was not discussed with him.

“So that is where we are; the letter itself tells the story,” he said.

He added that he has never been political in relation to the ‘Bigger Biggs’ matter.

“I have said so over and over,” Gonsalves concluded..

EC$1.50

Leon ‘Bigger Biggs’ Samuel is said to have suffered tremendous loss since the closure of his mining and blockmaking operations.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves disclosed to the House of Assembly that a process has begun to restore ‘Bigger Biggs’ business operations.

V

2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

LIME brings new opening in music streaming

A PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT signed between LIME and Deezer, one of the world’s leading music streaming operators, is set to deliver yet another innovative offering to LIME’s Caribbean subscribers.

Martin Roos, LIME Caribbean CEO, said that Caribbean

subscribers will have access to music streaming of more than 35 million songs.

With this agreement, to which Deezer brings the largest digital music library in the Caribbean, Latin America, and in fact, the world, the resulting music streaming service is now

available in more than 35 Latin American and Caribbean markets, considered the fastest growing region for music sales.

Music lovers across LIME markets now have access to the most extensive music catalogue available, as the global editorial team

searches for the best music, and using computer programmed ‘algorithmic recommendations’ to help fans discover music from around the world, that they will truly love.

The service is available on LIME subscribers’ favourite smartphones such as the

iPhones and Androids, plus other devices like tablets, PCs, laptops, home sound system, connected car or smart TV. The Deezer standalone service called Deezer Premium+ allows customers access to more than 35 million music tracks and albums, as well as 30 radio channels. New bundle models will be available soon.

“As our customers embrace a ‘digital lifestyle’, increasingly they also want to listen

Martin Roos, LIME Caribbean CEO, assured that LIME subscribers will now have access to over 35 million (music) tracks. to whatever they want, whenever, and wherever.

The Deezer music service will be available to all LIME customers as well as in the Bahamas and Panama,” Roos stated.

Deezer offers access to over 35 million tracks and more.

Love and LIME are in the air TEXT THE WORD ‘LOVE” to short code 6263, and postpaid and prepaid customers are in the running to win great prize packages, compliments LIME. Love is definitely in the air with LIME this February. The telecommunications provider launched its Valentine’s Day LIME brings a promotional campaign Valentine’s LOVE deal to on the 23rd of January. all its subscribers.

Once the text, ‘LOVE’ has been sent, LIME customers can expect a response to let them know if they are one of the four lucky winners.

Prizes include one tablet and speaker system, which would be won by two LIME customers, as well as a weekend for two at the Young Island Resort, and four weekly 4G data passes.

The promotion concludes on February 13th, with the grand prize draw slated to take place the following day, Valentine’s Day. Customers are encouraged to text as many times as possible, so that they would have greater chances of claiming one of the prizes.

V News 3 ÂMajorÊ in ÂstrongÊ criticism of 2015 Budget

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 3.

Luke Browne who cited that “all is well,” and Jomo Thomas CENTRAL KINGSTOWN’S who was of the view that there parliamentary representative, was “good news” emerging St. Clair Leacock, is not from the Prime Minister’s complimentary of this country’s Budget address.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Leacock indicated that Gonsalves. paying attention to the As far as Leacock is constituency was “spreading concerned, Dr. Gonsalves is a the bread,” and providing “master of contradiction,” and more equity. a “master of deception.”

Leacock’s description of Leacock’s comments came Thomas sparked one of several during his contribution to the clashes across the floor, with 2015 Budget debate.

Speaker Hendrick Alexander Leacock presented an option having to enforce his authority in favour of concentrating to simmer the conflict. expenditure at the But Leacock maintained his constituency level, i.e. that criticism of the budget, and more attention ought to be outlined that the government paid to the constituency. was in a debt trap “from which For him, there should be they will not escape.” “constituency first, Ministry He described the 2015 after…. . I want to see us Budget as a “ten cents budget, making that adjustment,” the not viable, not veritable,” and Central Kingstown endorsed Senator Linton representative added.

Lewis’s outlook that the Leacock disagreed with the budget was “vulgar.” positions taken by Senators The Central Kingstown

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

St. Clair Leacock, Opposition Parliamentary Representative for Central Kingstown, wants a new approach to this country’s development.

parliamentarian suggested that the only money government had was the slush fund obtained through Petro Caribe, and those matters were being done illegally.

“They are breaking the law,” Leacock contended.

He took issue with National Security Advisor Sir Vincent Beache who was named as Head of the Board of the local Petro Caribe operation which handled the business arrangement for fuel from that programme benefactor, Venezuela.

Leacock wants a reduction on fuel prices at the pumps, in light of the drop in oil prices, and also anticipates a drop in the electricity cost.

For Leacock, Dr. Gonsalves is no “modern day Houdini,” alluding to a difference between a story teller and one who “does tell story.”

The MP described allocations to the Prime

Minister’s Office as tantamount to a “government within a government.”

The Central Kingstown Parliamentarian recalled a resolution of No-confidence brought by Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, January 24, 2000.

He thinks that some of the things Dr. Gonsalves condemned in 2000 were very much present in 2015.

There needs to be “an alternative approach” to this country’s development, one that ought to be “basic needs,” with “people first,” he suggested.

Leacock, though, praised the government’s effort at helping the helpless with “low income and No Income housing,” and recommended that assistance be given to persons with one and tworoom houses to help them build back walls, steps and entrances to their homes.

Opposition Leader concerned Budget for 2014 was projected at EC$330 LEADER OF THE million, Capital OPPOSITION Arnhim Expenditure was Eustace says that he has projected to amount to concerns about the EC$147 million. government’s ability to There was a similar achieve the targets set situation of government out under capital not spending the amount expenditure. it projected to spend in He made the point in 2013, he said. his response to Prime “Less than half of Minister Dr Ralph what you projected to Gonsalves’ Budget spend was spent,” the presentation last week.

Leader of the Opposition The Capital said.

Expenditure, as set out “Here, we had $330 in the Estimates for million available for 2015, is EC$296,350,530, capital expenditure, however, Eustace according to the explained that it has estimates for 2014, and been the trend by the we spent 147. How, what government to spend does that mean? What half, or a little less than does that mean to the what was projected. average person outside?

“When we set these What does that mean to targets and we don’t the business community achieve them…we don’t who look at the achieve our growth in supplementary estimates other targets,” Eustace and saw that the said. government intended to The Opposition Leader spend $330 million?” said that he raised the It would mean that issue because the the business sector representatives of the should have imported International Monetary more because of a bigger Fund (IMF) during their Capital Budget, Eustace visit in November last reasoned. year, pointed out that “But when it comes to although the Capital the actual expenditure,

by DAYLE DA SILVA

we not even spending 50 percent,” he continued.

“Therefore, when we say that we have a growth rate of 2 percent or 3 percent, or whatever, if you are not spending on your capital projects, what you say you are going to spend, how are you going to achieve anything near what you set as your target for this economy?”

And based on what had taken place in the past, Eustace said that he did not believe that the government was going to spend what it projected to in 2015.

“I don’t believe it is possible.

“Something has gone wrong; we either over estimating in an effort to put forward a large budget or some will say an election budget; but we don’t have the capacity to deal with it,” Eustace told members of the House.

Even in cases where the government has the financial resources, it does not have the implementation capacity to deal with it, he further

There was warmth when the Governor General greeted the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition; but that did not seem to extend to the actual debate of the 2015 Budget. reasoned, adding that this has been an issue with the Unity Labour Party-led administration.

“You will find that a

lot hinges on what is happening in our estimates and the basis on which they are prepared. None of us are

perfect, but we can’t even make 50 percent of what we are prepared to do.

That is far too low,” Eustace said.

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4. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Parliament

Ollivierre sheds tears

Senator Gonsalves defends Venezuela intensification as having come through from the campaign for the SENATOR CAMILLO Referendum of 2009 and Gonsalves, this country’s even during President Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chavez’s visit to St. has come out in defence Vincent and the of Venezuela.

Grenadines.

In his contribution The closure of the during the debate of the Kingstown Medical 2015 Budget Debate, he College was also speculates as to what attributed to this Venezuela had done to country’s closeness with incur the “vitriol” of the Venezuela, Senator opposition New Gonsalves stated.

Democratic Party.

And added that Gonsalves, son of Ecuadorian soldiers, here Prime Minister Dr. to contribute to the Ralph Gonsalves, noted rebuilding process that the one unifying following the floods of factor of the NDP December 2013, were members was their mistaken for Venezuelan attack of Petro Caribe. troops.

He noted that the The young Gonsalves position had surfaced assured that the Petro during the presentation Caribe agreement will of the estimates, and was continue to bring maintained during the benefits to this nation Budget Debate. because President He viewed the recent Nicolas Maduro and his

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

foreign minister had given that commitment, when he met them in Costa Rica one week ago.

Senator Gonsalves urged the opposition to know the facts of the Petro Caribe agreement.

Central Kingstown Parliamentarian St. Clair Leacock accused Camillo of misrepresentation, and disclosed that his party had no difficulties with the government and people of Venezuela.

He, however was concerned with the way in which the treaty was arrived at.

That juncture saw the intervention of Prime Minister Dr Gonsalves.

He informed that a “ratification of a Treaty is done through cabinet,” and not by Parliament.

Senator Lewis joined in the escape and

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Senator Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Foreign Affairs, slighted the Opposition for its ‘vitriolic attitude’ to Venezuela. indicated that any multilateral Treaty should be brought before parliament.

Senator Gonsalves described the opposition’s debate as “consistent at best” and alluded to their “usual nibbling at the margins of national development.”

He described their contribution as a “hodgepodge of ideas here and there which, even if implemented, will do nothing in the scheme of things.”

More Fancy development affected families; medical attention to ensure proper THE ACCESS road to Fancy has recovery for those who been rehabilitated, with more survived the accident; and work expected to further improve the speedy provisioning to Intensive development works, it, as that community has been the surviving students of infrastructural and otherwise, are the recipient of an elaborated all basic materials earmarked for Fancy, the northernmost Restoration and Development required to resume their community on mainland St. Vincent.

Programme. education.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph A 30-seater bus, which comparable cost at any other Gonsalves said during the 2015 will be run by the state, has university, provided, of course, Budget presentation last already been ordered, and a new that the student meets the Wednesday that plans for the cemetery was consecrated in the requisite matriculation programme are being finalised, community, in time for the qualifications for entry to college and it (the programme) will be funeral of the five on January 25. or university,” Dr. Gonsalves implemented “in concert with the The Prime Minister also continued. families” of those who were announced that each of the Other aspects of the project will directly touched by the January surviving students, and for those include physical infrastructure 12 tragedy, when a vehicle who do not yet receive a monthly facilities such as village roads and crashed at Rock Gutter, resulting support system, will receive one footpaths, housing, sustainable in the death of five students from that he said will be sufficient for livelihood projects and for the community. Two persons are their education and sustenance. improvements in primary and still missing from the vehicular “Moreover, a commitment is crash at Rock Gutter. being given by the government, to adult education, health services, According to the Prime each student, to finance his or her sports and culture.

“These facilities have been Minister, some of the initiatives further education and training at upgraded over the past several already being undertaken by the the St. Vincent and the years, but more still is left to be government include the delivery Grenadines Community College done,” Gonsalves said. of counselling services, on an onand beyond, at the University of going basis, to all members of the the West Indies or at a

by DAYLE DA SILVA

VINLEC reports loss for 2014 This country’s electric company, VINLEC has reportedly suffered a loss in 2014.

Minister of Finance and Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves said in the 2015 Budget presentation, that the company’s revenue for 2014 was EC$137.4 million, however its operational costs were $137.9 million.

Repairs to the hydro plant damaged during the heavy rains in December 2013 and the subsidy accounted for

this loss in revenue, Dr. Gonsalves explained.

But 2015 is promising to be a better year for the lone electric company which operates in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

“It (VINLEC) is projecting to achieve net earnings of $4.5 million,” Gonsalves said.

VINLEC is also anticipating an increase in electricity sales, arising from expected increased economic

TERRENCE OLLIVIERRE, the parliamentary representative for the Southern Grenadines, wiped away tears from his eyes during a Sitting of the House of Assembly last Monday. His emotions overwhelmed him during his presentation to this year’s Budget.

Ollivierre outlined a series of woes which, he contended, people in the Southern Terrence Grenadines continue to endure. Ollivierre may He summed up the situation well have been as one of neglect and saying a prayer discrimination. for his “You can’t have people living constituents, on an island with no basic especially the health care,” Ollivierre stated. young people, He was referring to who he assesses Mayreau in particular, but his as continuing to concerns extended to the endure islands of Canouan and Union unnecessary Island. burden.

He cited the plight of an elderly man in Mayreau who was bedridden and affected with sores and repeated a call for a nurse to be stationed on the island.

Ollivierre pointed out that an invitation for Tender for the conduction of a Clinic on Mayreau was done in March 2014, but noted that the structure had not been completed.

The MP highlighted the number of students who were dropping out from schools, particularly in Canouan and Mayreau, and attributed the cost of travel as a possible reason for the drop out.

The students attend the Union Island Secondary School, and Ollivierre pointed out that they had to pay speed boats to take them to Union Island then take van to school.

While Ollivierre focussed on secondary students on those two Islands, the drop out problem from primary schools from as low as Grade K was also a worrying factor to him.

The matter assumes national proportions as far as Ollivierre is concerned. He cited that 1296 students dropped out of Secondary School between 2009 to 2013.

Ollivierre called for a Secondary School to be erected on Canouan.

He is not pleased with the way in which school uniforms are distributed. The Southern Grenadines representative remarked that some students whose parents who could well afford the purchase of uniforms, instead received assistance in this regard from the Ministry of National Mobilization, while others more deserving of the assistance did not receive.

Ollivierre praised the Union Island Secondary School for placing first and third in the Ideas Category of the I Squared Competition sponsored by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission.

VINLEC’s hydro-plant at South Rivers is expected to be fully rehabilitated in 2015. activity, after sales decreased by 0.6 percent when compared to the figure for 2013, he continued.

The company’s primary capital activity for 2015, according to Dr. Gonsalves, will be the finalisation of rehabilitative work at the hydr-plants at South Rivers and Richmond.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 5.

Regional

President Castro outlines demands FOR THE FIRST TIME since the December 17, 2014 announcement that the U.S. and Cuba would move toward renewing full diplomatic relations, and one week after the first ‘high’ level talks between the two countries were held, Cuba has made known its conditions for any normalization of relations.

While speaking at the 3rd Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, in Costa Rica, last week, President Raul Castro said that the normalization of relations between Cuba and the U.S. will not be possible as long as the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by Washington against Havana exists, among other issues.

The mid-January talks had held out some degree of hope for the establishment of diplomatic relations by April this year; but President Castro’s announcement may have made that target date somewhat illusive.

In addition to lifting the blockage, President Castro also listed the return of the Guantanamo Naval Base, territory in Cuba, as a pre-requisite for establishing diplomatic relations, and any return to normalcy of broader relations between his country and the US. Raul Castro acknowledged that progress was made in the recent negotiations, because each country treated the other with respect, even as he recognized that profound difference remained between the two.

Any further progress was predicated on both countries continuing to treat each other as equals, President Castro said, adding, according to Prensa Latina News Agency, that “it should not be expected that for this, Cuba has to give up its ideals of independence and social justice, to give in not even one of our principles or give an inch in the defense of national sovereignty.”

The U.S. State

Department did not immediately respond to President Castro’s remarks. However, CNN reported that when asked whether the U.S. would actually return the Guantanamo Base to Cuba, Press Secretary Josh Earnest responded with an abrupt no.

“The naval base is not something we believe should be closed,” CNN reported him as saying.

Earnest is also reported as saying that the U.S. would keep the base, even after the

prison has been emptied.

Some news agencies reported that the White House dismissed President Castro’s demands. (Sources: Prensa Latina News Agency, CNN.)

Inset: There was no direct response from U.S. President Barack Obama, but news agencies in the U.S. reported an all out ‘No’ to President Castro’s demands. Photo:hayride.com)

Measles and Influenza alerts WITH THE CENTERS for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States reporting 84 cases of measles during the first 28 days of the year, at least one CARICOM country is already focusing its attention on that development.

Jamaica’s acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr

Marion Bullock-DuCasse, confirmed last week that Jamaica was monitoring the situation in North America.

The health authorities in Jamaica also said that they are monitoring a similar outbreak in Mexico, and are urging parents to have their children immunized for the disease.

St. Lucians demand fuel price reduction THE STREET OF CASTRIES, St. Lucia were washed in a sea of yellow and orange last week Thursday, as St. Lucians came out in protest to urge their government to effect an immediate decrease in fuel prices.

Led by the opposition United Workers Party (UWP), hundreds of protesters are reported to have had placards bearing the slogan ‘Enough is Enough’, as they trekked to the William Peter Boulevard, the bastion of UWP political public meetings, where they were addressed by at least twelve speakers, including UWP leader Allen Chastanet.

The VOICE newspaper of St. Lucia reported Chastanet as saying, inter alia, “I want to put Kenny Anthony and his Cabinet on notice tonight….. . We are not here only to march to reduce the price of gas to the same prices as in the rest of the Caribbean.

We’re not asking you to bring it lower than the other places in the Caribbean. Just bring it to the same price that the rest of the Caribbean is enjoying – $10 or $11 a gallon. That is where we want to see the gas prices.”

In fact, Chatanet is said to have used the occasion to

President Raul Castro addressing the Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, in Costa Rica, during which he made his country’s demands. (Photo: voanews.com)

Hundreds of St. Lucians took to the streets, last week Thursday, to demand an immediate reduction in fuel prices. (Photo: St. Lucia Newsonline) Inset: Allen Chastanet, Leader of the Opposition UWP, warned Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony that his party was prepared to continue its protest until the government gave in to its demand. (Photo: The Voice, St. Lucia) heighten the Opposition’s pressure on the Dr. Kenny Anthony-led Labour Party government, warning the government that “…this is only the beginning of the fight,” as he leveled criticism on the government for not doing enough to alleviate the plight of St. Lucians.

The protest came even after Prime Minister Dr. Anthony had given his government’s commitment last week, to reduce fuel prices. Dr. Anthony had at

that time, explained that the next fuel adjustment could not come before April, when the current three-month pass-through mechanism period is complete.

However, Chastanet was adamant that St. Lucians wanted the reduction “now”, and as far he was concerned, the decision to do so should come no later than the next Cabinet meeting.

He promised that his party would continue with its protests until government “does the right thing.” (Source: St. Lucia Voice, St. Lucia Star.)

“Despite this, we have seen how diseases can cross borders; and so we have to ensure that we keep a close watch on the situation in the US and any other country where measles cases occur,” Jamaica news agencies reported Dr. BullockDuCasse as saying.

She urged, “All Jamaicans …. to ensure that they and their children are protected.”

This heightened alert in Jamaica comes as the annual tourist season picks up momentum, with an increased number of visitors expected to visit the island, especially during the next four to five months.

But Dr. BullockDuCasse said Jamaica has been free of endemic or local transmission of measles since 1991, and said this is because of the country’s expanded immunisation programme.

Meanwhile, the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is warning Caribbean people to practise good personal hygiene, in order to reduce the risk of transmission of influenza and other respiratory viruses.

The CARPHA advisory comes as the region enters the annual influenza season.

Dr. James Hospedales, CARPHA executive director, said that the “primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact.”

Caribbean News Now

Dr Marion BullockDuCasse, Jamaica’s acting Chief Medical Officer, confirmed that her country was keeping a close watch on developments in the U.S., as they related to a reported measles outbreak.

Dr. James Hospedales, CARPHA executive director, called for Caribbean people to adopt proper hygienic practices to help ward off influenza. reports him as saying, “Given elevated flu activity in the United States, combined with the high travel season to the Caribbean, it is important that persons take the necessary steps now, to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu.”

V Stella Boyea-Ashby gets support for Sports Ambassadorship 6. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Diaspora

her would-be sports ambassadorship in light of her sterling contribution.

“She was a force to be reckoned with,” Dr. Roxie Irish, ex-national netball star, who “had the privilege of playing in St. Kitts-Nevis, Bermuda, Grenada and the U.S.A under the captaincy of the skillful Stella Boyea,” told THE VINCENTIAN. Stella represented the national netball team from 1973-84, when she migrated to New York.

She captained the national netball team from 1974-80, and again from 1983-84. Jose Providence was the captain from 1981-82.

“Stella knew how to encourage and lead her team, which she did by example,” said Irish, “She was fearless, and always treated everyone with respect. She was very protective of the team, especially the younger ladies.”

Irish, drafted into the national netball team in 1980, also described Boyea-Ashby as a “phenomenon — a bundle of energy, a storage of stamina, container of Stella Boyea-Ashby served SVG netball at the creative concepts, full of national level for well over a decade. flawless fluidity and a ‘States Woman’ to the Story and photo by core.

NELSON A. KING “This woman, who we naking@verizon.net looked up to with US CORRESPONDENT maximum respect and adoration, was our WHEN PRIME MINISTER champion,” she said. “I Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves especially love her announced the 2014 gregarious nature; and, Sports Ambassadors, today, I can claim her as during the independence a true friend. anniversary military “So, on behalf of my parade last October, many sisters, Debra and nationals in the Diaspora Dailene (who also expressed consternation represented the nation in that arguably one of the netball) and myself, we better, if not the best, say, thank you, Stella, netballers in the nation’s for the wonderful years history was omitted.

Dr. Roxie Irish describes of playing under your The call for Stella leadership,” Irish added. her former teammate Boyea-Ashby’s inclusion “You are simply the and captain as a on the list even grew best!” ‘phenomenon’. louder in recent times, in Gailene Windsor — Cares, Inc. Some have the wake of the conferral another former national also urged that Boucher netball star, who played last December of the be named a Sports Lifetime Achievement under Stella’s captaincy Ambassador.

Award on football for four years, including Many former national in the 1979 World (soccer) great Rudolph netballers, particularly “Rudy” Boucher, a former Tournament, said Stella national football captain those who played under “has done great in Boyea-Ashby’s captaincy, representing St. Vincent and coach, by the fasthave voiced support for rising group, Vincy

said she captained Hairoun Netball Team for eight years, starting in 1986.

“I’m always leading and not fearful of my opponents, because I relish the competition,” she said.

In recent years, Stella has dedicated her full life to Christ, worshipping at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church in Brooklyn.

She is actively involved in various lay ministries and, in January 2011, she was elected to serve on the vestry as one of the church’s wardens.

After leaving the advertising business, where she worked for a number of years for leading black advertising agencies in the “Big Apple”, Stella, a former VINLEC employee, has been employed at Channel 13, one of the leading public television stations in the sprawling city, as an Executive Assistant in the station’s communications department.

As for the sports ambassadorship, a coy Stella said she “will be About Stella honored if it’s done, but it will not be a problem if Stella Boyea-Ashby, it doesn’t happen. who was born in “My mantra is to serve Lowmans Windward to and help my fellow former St. Vincent Labour Party Member of Vincentians,” she added.

Stella Boyea-Ashby is Parliament Offord Morris and Katura Boyea the recipient of (deceased), grew up with numerous awards for her late grandmother, exploits on the netball Estella Boyea, along court, including being Murray’s Road, crowned the 1983 St. Kingstown.

Vincent and the She told THE Grenadines VINCENTIAN that, though she was called to represent the national netball team when she was only 11, her grandmother did not allow her to do so until she was 16.

She said she played netball for the Girls High School from 1968-75, captained Maples Netball Team from 1975-80, and then founded and captained Bata Joggers Netball Team from 198184.

After migrating to New York, Boyea-Ashby and the Grenadines.

“And it’ll be an honor for her to be named a Sports Ambassador, because she represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines very well, too,” said Windsor, an erstwhile captain and president of the Brooklyn, New Yorkbased Hairoun Netball Team and a member of the Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and the Grenadines Diaspora Committee of New York, Inc. Judith ‘Baffy’ CuffyMurray, who also played under Stella’s captaincy in St. Lucia and with New York-based Hairoun Netball Team, said bestowing sports ambassadorship on Boyea-Ashby would be most meriting.

“She was captain for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Netball Team for the longest while,” said Brooklyn resident CuffyMurray. “She was a very hard player to look up to.

She’s one who deserves that position because of her skills on the (netball) court.”

Gailene Windsor , former national netballer, says Stella Boyea-Ashby should be accorded the honour of being name a Sports Ambassador.

Judith ‘Baffy’ CuffyMurray,-netballer, thinks Stella Boyea-Ashby merits a sports ambassadorship.

Sportswoman of the Year.

“I feel like I’m a daughter of the soil,” she assured.

Stella is married to Vincentian-born Keith (Hadaway) Ashby. They have one daughter, Ariella.

V Drowning victimÊs sister accepts death as GodÊs call

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 7.

News

Cauldric Williams is said to have disappeared while swimming with two others at Peiti Byahaut.

by HAYDN HUGGINS TAMEISHA WILLIAMS has accepted last Saturday’s drowning of her younger brother, Cauldric Levan Williams Jr., at Petit Byahaut, on the Leeward Coast of St. Vincent, as a call to draw closer to God. “I am trying to be strong, I know he is already gone, he can’t come back alive. God knows best. God does everything for a purpose. I take this as a call from God to draw closer to him,” Tameisha told THE VINCENTIAN during an interview on Wednesday.

She preferred not to be photographed.

Cauldric, a former student of the Intermediate High School, who resided at Redemption Sharpes, was 17 at the time of his death.

Tameisha, who hails from that community but is currently employed on the Grenadine Isle of Canouan, said that during the week prior to her brother’s death, she had three strange dreams. She related what she dreamt only to her boyfriend, but after she received the news of Cauldric’s death she spoke to her boss about the dreams.

The young woman noted that before the strange dreams, she had not dreamt for a long time.

Tameisha also recalled that a few months ago, a woman from the Seventh Day Adventist Church had given her a booklet entitled, ‘When will suffering end’, and she read it for a third time, about a week before her brother’s death.

“The booklet is always in my bag, even when I am going to work. I was cleaning out my bag and I just read it over, and I went to the Bible for the

During a telephone conversation on Wednesday, Clarke told THE VINCENTIAN that while the three of them were swimming together, he noticed that Cauldric had dropped back and he (Clarke) told him that if he felt tired, to go on a nearby rock.

Clarke said Cauldric Caludric’s mother, Laverne Williams, younger brother Orlando and father James Smart showed no signs of a say they find comfort in believing that ‘God knows best’. struggle or asked for help.

“I noticed that he dropped scriptures that was written in the Arnos Vale but grew up in Redemption back, and I told him that if he feels booklet to understand them more Sharpes. According to him, Cauldric clearly,” Tameisha explained. had been living at the home of one tired to go on the rock,” he reiterated.

Cauldic’s elder brother, Levi Sydney ‘Tony-C’ Clarke and his wife, When they looked back again, they Williams, said, “The post-mortem Bernice, at Redemption Sharpes for did not see Cauldric. His body was confirmed that he died from drowning quite a while, but visits their home later fished out from the bottom of the and we got his body. Nobody didn’t frequently. sea. chop him up, shoot him or kidnap him.

Clarke explained that more than 60 God knows best, sometimes he does A picnic turns into tragedy persons had gone on the picnic. He take life to make us buck up.” noted that several persons were in the Levy speculated that Cauldric could Cauldric was part of a group that water, but three of them were have been somewhere else and his life went on a church picnic aboard a swimming together. taken under different circumstances.

Catmaran to a beach on the Leeward Cauldric’s death has been very “God knows best. The most we can coast last Saturdy. Reports are that on painful for him, Clarke said, noting do now is to bury him and keep their way back, they stopped at Petit that he and his wife Bernice took him strong,” Levi said.

Byahaut, a beach located between as their son, and the youngster spent Buccament and Clare Valley, to most of his time at their home.

‘My little breadfruit tree’ snorkel.

Cauldric will be buried today Cauldric, Clarke and another person (Friday) February 6 at the Kingstown Laverne Williams, had gone swimming when the Cemetery following a service beginning youngster disappeared under water.

Cauldric’s mother, at 2 pm, at the Faith Deliverance described her son as her His body was later discovered at the Church. “little breadfruit tree.” bottom of the sea, during a search.

“I still ain’t feel good.

Everything I want from the mountains, he does bring it for me. When he done give me dem, he would kiss me, he never use to go to he daddy, ah me he ah come to. If he feel like ask he daddy for a dollar he go ask him,” SENIOR PASTOR AL BLAKE, the Elders and the mother of five, members of Harvest Bible Chapel St. Vincent Cauldric being the third, would like to express our deepest condolences to related. the family and friends of the late Cauldric She made it clear to “Junior “ Williams of Redemption Sharpes, who THE VINCENTIAN that died in tragic circumstances on Saturday 31st she is not pleased with January, 2015, at Petit Byahaut. what happened.

The leadership of Harvest Bible Chapel will do Cauldric’s father all in its power to assist the family during this James ‘Spirie’ Smart, a difficult period. resident of Redemption Be assured that you are always in our prayers.

Sharpes but originally from Calliaqua, said Al Blake Petit Byahaut, where Cauldric Williams drowned, is a secluded bay Cauldric was born in Senior Pastor frequented mostly by fishermen and snorkelers.

Harvest Bible Chapel mourns Cauldric’s passing’

V

8. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 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

Argyle and the call for investment THE ARGYLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT is a work in progress. Those directly concerned with the construction promise completion by mid2015, though the Prime Minister more recently moved it to the end of 2015. Even with that vacillation, we can safely conclude its commissioning will take a longer period after construction is considered complete.

Since the 2008 groundbreaking ceremony, the airport has repeatedly been propagated as nothing short of being the panacea to our development aspirations. And while that labeling has not attracted much debate, the estimated cost for the construction has. Estimated cost has been put at $500 million at one end of the divide, to $1.5 billion at the other, with the Prime Minister somewhere in the middle. Only time will shed true light on what was spent to effect the largest infrastructural project in the history of this fledging nation.

What is also purported is that the Argyle International Airport will have (not attract), conservatively put, four times the capacity of the E. T. Joshua Airport.

So let’s look a bit at what this new airport means for at least, one economic sector — tourism. That it is expected to raise our ante as far as the export of agricultural and related products is concerned, is perhaps better dealt with on another occasion.

The Prime Minister, in his 2015 Budget Address, made a call for private sector interests to join government in providing complementary services (i.e. to the international airport) that would boost, among other sectors, this country’s tourism.

We take that to mean services in the hospitality industry, as well as health, telecommunications, and what have you.

The fact that there has not been any visible, appreciable investment to complement the construction of the airport, speaks to a wait and see attitude on the part of not only local but moreso, foreign interests.

That the airport construction comes at a time when the economy is not attractive to meaningful, long term private sector investment — investment for profit — is perhaps the first and major impediment to investment in this regard. Some say the economy is not even attractive to short term investment, save and except the involvement in the, albeit illegal, cultivation and sale of marijuana.

Even if it was that there were parties considering investing, it will be some time before any new, real investment becomes a reality.

It could well be a chicken and egg situation. One is wont to say that if there are investments in complementary services, air services to the new airport will be guaranteed. On the other hand, investors, in their waiting game stance, may well be saying, show me the potential, show me a guarantee of traffic, and we will invest.

As disheartening as it sounds, the truth is that we are at a standoff as far as the airport being able to attract complementary investment in the wider economy. There has been little new investment generally; so would a project, as much as Vincentians home and abroad support it, that has had its fair share of setbacks and immense challenges, make any difference?

It took St. Kitts and Nevis well over a decade before its international airport could boast that that is what it was. It took well over a decade and more before that country could offer itself as a viable tourist attraction. Is Buccament Bay Resort and Canouan enough to carry our tourism aspirations? When will we be adequately prepared?

Air traffic into new destinations does not happen overnight — these are not willy nilly decisions made on sentimentality or some perceived love for what we have to offer. These are pure and simple business decisions.

For anyone to say, a la IADC official, that the Argyle International Airport will be able to ‘pay for itself’ in ten years, is to hope that private sector interests arrive in droves overnight, to advance rapid complementary development; that airlines are lining up aplenty, to fly into Argyle. That type of writing does not appear, with any surety, anywhere on the wall, unless the wall is obscured from the people’s purview.

Let’s be honest and accept that, when the construction of the Argyle International Airport is complete, that is merely the beginning of another long and arduous road towards making it anywhere near the panacea that we hope it would become.

Ralphie and Sugar Daddy THERE IS SIMPLY TOO MUCH on which to write concerning this year’s Budget. So I will duck same for the time being, while I gather more relevant facts in the unfolding drama.

Elections will be held within the next fifteen months, when the bell will at last begin to ring.

NDP holds a record of sorts, having won four elections on a stretch-1984,1989,1994 and 1998 by a one seat majority, and was forced to go back to the polls in mid-term, where it was mauled by the ULP. The ULP won in 2001, 2005 and 2010 by the odd seat, with the next election around the corner, which they cannot win. For the NDP is more or less assured of seven seats: 3 Kingstown, 2 Grenadines plus North and South Leeward, with East and West St George and North Windward favouring it.

NDP has to work very hard to impress four others, South Windward, Marriaqua, SouthCentral Windward and Central Leeward, while the Prime Minister’s seat of North Central Windward seems at the moment to be an impregnable ULP fortress.

The impending elections form the back-drop of the current Budget session.

Instead, I will deal with the exposure of Ralph’s view on the reintroduction of sugar, that ULPites all harp on as explaining the handicapped nature of the economy which they had to lick in shape.

On the specific matter of Vincent Beache and sugar, I will let Ralph speak for himself, in demonstration that he and I entertained similar views at the critical time.

In Vol 1 No.11 of “Unity” published on 9 February 1983, the Doctor said it all.

estimated cost to EC$23 million. At budget time, August 1982, the figure had jumped to EC$28 million. Perhaps it is more than this sum. In any case, there has been a massive cost over-run.

“Secondly, the actual organisation of the reintroduction. Remember, it started since 1975.

There was a ¾ acre sugar cane nursery at Belmont; then 8 acres at Wallilabou; then a further 8 acres at Diamond Estate, and yet another 60 acres at Langley Park. Thousands of dollars were thrown into the Rabacca River, as the coming of sugar just could not come as planned. The fumbling efforts of the Government were pathetic.

“Thirdly, the old factory from Forest Park, Trinidad. Delays followed delays in dismantling it and bringing it here, then setting it up. The Cato-Beache duo disregarded all public concern about the efficiency and suitability of the old factory. When it started to function, it showed itself to be a cross between a sieve and a coffee grinder. The steam-operated electrical generator would not work, and the diesel generator guzzled an amazing 1,800 gallons of fuel every day!

There were mechanical problems of all sorts, particularly with the boilers and evaporators.

Fourthly, the staff of the factory was not properly trained. Moreover, political affiliation was a prime consideration for getting a job. The resident Labour Party Commissioner in Georgetown assumed control of much hiring and firing. All this and more the nation knew.

Fifthly, the sugar lands were distributed on a partisan political basis. There was, and still is, a lack of coordination between factory and farmers.

The Sugar Controversy Cleared Up Cane was and is being processed after being cut and lying on the ground in excess of the (Re-Print from the Cross- Country16th permissible 72 hours.

September, 2000 The Dr. Kenneth John Column) Meanwhile, Government carried us into flights at Fancy.

“The euphoria of the return of King Sugar is “... So as the sorry mess piled up, the people now gone. Instead of ‘sweetness for all’, as officially predicted, there is bitterness. Instead of suspended their critical faculties as though sugar sugary success, there is economic vinegar. Sugar was simply government’s business and not theirs. All last year, I was talking up and down has truly turned sour. The cessation of the election rhythm ‘Don’t stop this party’ finds even the country about the recurrent losses plus nearly $2million per year in servicing the sugar the loquacious ‘Sugar Daddy’, Vincent Beache, running for cover, in silence! The disco beat is no loans. Hardly anyone believed. It sounded too incredible to be true. longer, the party is over. Reality has seen to “As 1983 opened, Beache shocked GIS that, as it always does. Now the nation faces an aching hang-over and an agonising query. What listeners with the disclosure that interest payments were indeed over EC$ 2 million. But do you do with sugar? he sought to suppress reality by talking stupidly From the beginning, there were voices of of a break-even point for the industry in two or caution, reflection, thoughtfulness and common three years time. Privately, though, he was sense about the reintroduction of sugar. But asking the CDB to re-evaluate the project and to these were brushed aside, as the Labour Party consider all option included a possible closure”. prepared itself to deceive the population and In sum, “The Labour Party regime bungled so manipulate sugar for electoral purposes. badly on the management of the reintroduction “…As the drama of the reintroduction of the of sugar, that on that ground alone, its sugar industry unfolded, disaster piled upon disaster. Yet, a gullible nation listened to excuse competence as a future governing party must be seriously questioned”. after excuse from the Labour Government, and Mitchell, therefore, had a road to walk in permitted it to lead us to this incredible sugary implementing the implications of the FAO quagmire.

Report, and scrapping the sugar industry.

“First, the question of the cost of But if Ralph could not revive sugar, he still reintroducing sugar. The 1978-79 Prospectus for helped to resuscitate the Labour Party and give the St Vincent Sugar Industries Limited it a new lease on life, albeit under his leadership. informed us that the estimated cost was in the And there are people who have remained order of Ec$10.8million. On February 4th 1980, hooked on the “old time religion” of sugar with the Government Information Service (GIS) was hypocritical talk still echoing the glories of an saying that the estimated cost has risen to industry they were on the verge of closing down EC$14 million; by October 13th of the same when they lost office. year, GIS told us it was it was EC $17 million.

By February 1982, the Government revised the

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 9.

Letters

Street characters of yesteryear WALKING along the streets of Kingstown today, puts me back to my younger days, 1948 (8 yrs then).

There was this vagrant whom we called “Gold Bead”. He was the first man I ever saw in a fish-tail suit. He was Vincentian alright, but made well in Venezuela and sent home his money to his wife. As fate would have it, when he came back here, there was nothing in the bank.

He took to the streets,

walking the three main streets of Kingstown daily. He slept on a grave in the Anglican Church yard, but he had pride and ambition.

Knowing that he had worked hard, he refused to beg or look for charity around Kingstown. “Gold Bead” then thought of a business plan. He asked my father, Albert (Fatty) Huskinson for a loan of $6.00. He used this to buy an ice pick and a sugar (crocus) bag, which he used for carrying a ¼

block of ice in his bare hands, travelling around Kingstown, selling a penny worth. He did that all day every day.

“Antoine” of Rose Place, a man with deformed legs, they were not round as ours but made like a boat ears or cutlass. He was also a dwarf and a master barber, who refused to beg.

“Jamba Goat Stones”, another ambitious son of the soil, could not read, write or count, but

Enforce the laws, now!

PLEASE allow me a space in your newspaper to air my concern.

To the C.O.P., the Head of the Traffic Branch and the President of the national Omni Bus Association: What is going on with the laws of SVG? Are they meant to be bent , be broken, or it doesn’t matter?

I was travelling recently on a mini bus. I was surprised by the loud and obscene behaviour of the conductor. The music they were playing, the way they handled the school children, especially young underaged school girls, were shameful. The driver and conductor had no

A Fancy Funeral

pride in themselves, for other people and for God, it seemed. Come on, man. We are not animals, we are humans.

Let’s start behaving like humans.

Now to the overloading of the mini buses. I wonder if they know that the Insurance doesn’t cover the buses when they are overloaded. Mini buses are licensed to carry 18 passengers, but have 21.

Do you remember what happened at Rock Gutter, or has it already been erased from your minds?

I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that there are laws against these things. Why are they not enforced? In other countries, like TnT, Barbados, they are very serious with these things. What happen to our sweet SVG? Come on, Mr. COP, Mr. Head of Traffic, Mr. President. It is high time we do something about this.

MY SINCERE condolences to the families of the victims on the horrendous accident at Rock Gutter.

Words cannot provide the comfort necessary at this time, and it is hoped that survivors find a way to cope with the memories that will no doubt live on forever. Take time to mourn in silence.

It is pitiful and degrading that politicians have found it necessary to turn what should be respected as a tragic incident, into a political circus, in their desperation for votes. It is a clear example of how the poor in this country are exploited, when politicians seek political mileage.

For years, the people of Fancy have been calling for a cemetery; for years they were without proper transportation. How convenient that it took a tragedy and little over 13 years for the ULP administration to realize this! It is hoped that Vincentians have finally come the full circle educationally, and political gimmicks are treated with the disdain they deserve. No longer is it Concerned citizen expected that the people of Fancy and throughout SVG to vote for one month’s attention and prima facie sympathy, versus 13 plus years of The Saint James School of Medicine sends victimization, high condolences to the families and friends of the unemployment, negative children whose lives were lost in the tragic accident growth, economic that occurred in Fancy, SVG, on 12th January, destruction, a 2015. dilapidated capital and a We feel sadness in our hearts over this tragedy which took the lives of five of our beautiful school poor health system; as children. We extend our sincere condolences to the Mr. Gonsalves seeks to families of Anique A. Alexander, Racquel J. Ashton, build his political Jamall T. Edwards, Jamalie J. Edwards and dynasty and increase Glenory G. Michael. family wealth, while the We also pray for the survival of the two missing common man struggles students, Simonique P.N. Ballantyne and to buy bread (ask Bigger Chanstacia A. Stay, and for their safe return to Biggs). their families.

If that be the case, then The Dean of Administration at Saint James, the next big internationProfessor Dr. Anwarul B. Siddiqui, M.D. and al artiste, coupled with a faculty member Dr. Hameed Siddiqui personally plane landing on the attended the funeral ceremony held in Fancy, SVG Argyle International on Sunday 25 January, 2015. As a member of the Airport to woo us, would St. Vincent community, Saint James stands by the complete the trick — in nation and the families of these children. Our our love for dolly house thoughts and prayers are with them. politics. Are we not smarter than that?

Dr. Anwarul Siddiqui, MD Dean of Administration Knackard Bloke Saint James School of Medicine, SVG

St. James School of Medicine sends condolences

refused to beg. He would transport on foot a bag of coals (not a sack) from the Kingstown Old Market to Sion Hill, Rockies, Kingstown Park, Green Hill or Lodge Village, as far as Lowmans Hill for only 1s/6p. But you better have his pay; he wasn’t leaving without payment.

Then there was Lester, designated the Minister of Health by a calypsonian. He spent his nights carting away all your sh…., instead of going about begging.

And he was always dressed in jacket and tie.

My friend “Brucie”, who died on the rock at Rose Place, would beg merchants for salt-fish tails, husk and the coconut jelly, and stored them on his back and in his bosom. He never accepted money. The Clifton family of Paul’s Avenue caught him in their shop one night. All their money remained there, but the salt fish tails were missing.

Concerned

Tribute to Conrad Sutherland BRO. Conrad Sutherland was born in 1915 in Lowmans Windward, and departed this life in 2015, just missing out on celebrating his 100th birthday.

Bro. Sutherland’s involvement in the Faith — known as Shakerism, Converted or Spiritual Baptists — began after the late George Mc Intosh had struggled for the repealing of the 1912 Shakerism Prohibition Ordinance that rendered the Faith illegal.

The Faith was registered under the Marriage Ordinance as the Christian Pilgrim Faith. Bro. Sutherland became one of two bishops of the Faith in the 1950s. The other bishop was Percival Dick.

He also served the Faith well until the late Duff Walker James moved the goal post by establishing the Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese in 1983.

Bro. Sutherland did not support the change and after the death of Dick, the late Cosmore Pompey was elevated from Superintendent Minister of the Spiritual Baptist Archdiocese to Archbishop. Bro. Sutherland retained his position as Bishop of the Christian Pilgrim Faith.

Bro. Conrad Sutherland introduced a governing council and held monthly meetings.

At a governing council meeting held on the 28th July, 2007, at the Mt.

Pathos Spiritual Baptist Church at Stubbs, under Bro. Sutherland’s leadership, it was resolved, among other things, that a committee be set up with the authority to conduct and undertake the necessary consultation and negotiation with the appropriate bodies or individuals, to bring the necessary projects and programmes to the Faith so as to establish it as an independent, self-governing religious denomination and legal entity.

The committee made representation for a Private Bill to Parliament for the incorporation of the Faith, and that was achieved.

Much thanks to Bro. Conrad Sutherland for passing the leadership of the Faith to his council, headed by Bishop Hamil Roban.

At his death, Sutherland had been elevated to the office of Patriarch with the Apostolic Spiritual Baptist Faith out of the USA. We are aware that the Patriarch Faith out of the USA will preside at his funeral to take place at Lowmans Windward this weekend.

We pledge to continue the work begun by Bro. Conrad Sutherland.

We also moan with his children, relatives and friends.

Long live his memory.

Newton George

Too many vehicles I RECALL that sometime ago, reference was made to the number of vehicles on the road, as being an indication of how developed we have become. I dare say, that this is quite a misrepresentation, unless the reference to development relates to the banks, since they are the only ones that will show growth because of an increase of sales of vehicles. It is, after all, easier (relatively speaking) to get a car loan than it is to get start-up money for a business venture, even though we tout the talk of entrepreneurship and so forth.

The notion that an increase in the number of vehicles on our roads makes us modern is a fallacy. In fact, given that the road network has not kept pace with the increase in vehicular traffic on our roads, the situation is fast becoming one of traffic trauma. The back-up of traffic on our roads, especially during the early morning and afternoon hours, is sheer madness.

Even worse is the types of vehicles

that now ‘grace’ our roads. Some are nothing short of gigantic — taking up more than half the road width, with little regard for those who prefer, wisely so, to invest in a small, costeffective (maintenance) vehicle.

Time that we look at curbing the unbridled importation of vehicles into this small country of ours. I recall that a previous government sought to differentiate between motor cars; some were categorised as luxury, depending on the size of engine, and therefore attracted a much higher rate of duties and taxes. This was meant to encourage the import and purchase of smaller vehicles, in keeping with available road network.

I wonder if this was re-introduced now, how many persons would think of overdoing it with their choice and number of vehicles.

I know this sounds like an infringement on the right to own property, but we got to make a start somewhere.

Paul

V

10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

The untold story of the developments in the health sector The Issue One of the interesting features of the 2015 budget address delivered on Wednesday, January 28th, 2015, was the amount of detail the Prime Minister provided to the members of the House of Assembly, and to the listening public, about the plans of his ULP administration for 2015. This is perhaps the most detail ever provided by the Prime Minister, and perhaps that this address was his longest since the ULP took office in March 2001.

Of great interest were the statistics he provided in relation to developments in the health sector. Vincentians have been hearing bits and pieces about the ongoing work in this sector, but the information provided by the Prime Minister went far beyond the expectations of most people. Truly, this was a story that has not been told by the media. Even the ULP spokespersons on radio have not been able to provide such a wide scope of information, even though in some cases, there have been references to the work being done.

With this revelation by the Prime Minister, it is important that we focus our attention further on these developments in health, as we continue to tell the story; a story is relevant to the needs of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

How have we grown?

The ULP administration is committed to the central goal of the delivery of health care system, and that is to make quality health care available to all Vincentians, at the lowest possible costs. In terms of delivery, the public health and primary health care systems are of good quality, and accessible to all at minimal prices.

Generally speaking, the secondary health care system is sound, and the few gaps which exist, are being plugged in two ways. First, through adequate medical assistance abroad, and secondly, through the visits of specialized medical missions. A similar situation applies to the delivery of tertiary health care.

These systems are backed up by resources which include 105 doctors, 650 nurses, including nursing assistants and nursing aides, and 29 pharmacists. This year, the ULP administration will spend just over EC$26 million on the recurrent budget for the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, an increase of 95.9 percent since 2001.

The main health indicators show that there has been an overall improvement in the health of Vincentians over the last 14 years. The indicators show that the average lifespan at birth currently stands at a commendable 74 years; Infant mortality has declined from 21 per 1,000 live births in 2001 to 15 per 1,000 live births in 2014; Maternal deaths are recorded, statistically, at zero; and immunisation of children below the age of 5 years against the usual range of infectious diseases is outstanding at 100 percent.

The Milton Cato Memorial Hospital has additional equipment including a modern CT-scan machine, a service which did not exist in 2001. The particular specialties or sub-specialties in the wide field of paediatric care have blossomed outstandingly, with the vital assistance of the World Paediatric Project (WPP), and the Mustique Charitable Trust, so as to make the MCMH the acknowledged centre of paediatric care, including advanced

surgical interventions, in the membercountries of the OECS. The modern paediatric facilities at MCMH are superb, and the medical/surgical attention delivered of a very high quality.

And there is much more, including the modern medical complex in Georgetown, which will be opened later this year, and the developments under the 10th EDF programme, which will see the construction of polyclinics in Mesopotamia and Buccament, and some development in health services which will affect Union Island in a positive way.

Added to all this, is the delivery of high quality, low-priced water to 98 percent of the households on St. Vincent; improved nutritional levels to such an extent that undernourishment has been reduced from 20 percent of the population in 1995 to 4.9 percent in 2012; and a sound garbage collection and disposal system that now exist throughout the whole of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Conclusion It is clear to many of us, that the principal causes of morbidity in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are diabetes and hypertension, cancer and cardiac ailments, accidents and criminal violence. It is thus selfevident that most of the health challenges are behavioral, manifesting themselves in our eating and drinking and so-called modern life-styles, our driving on the roads and unsafe working environments, and violent misconduct.

Policy implications arise accordingly from these factual observations, particularly in respect of encouraging or facilitating healthier behaviour lifestyles. Nevertheless, the ULP administration will continue to provide the resources to meet the cost of health care of our citizens. But we have to be cognizant that as citizens, we have a critical role to play in this situation.

We must be aware of the smallness of our economy and our population, and the fiscal constraints that exist, given the continuing global economic and financial crisis. We have to pay greater attention to the way we live, what we eat and drink, and ensure that we get adequate exercise. We must become part of the drive to attain a higher level of health consciousness in our country, and we must seek to walk the talk. In this way we will play our part in the drive to become a healthier nation.

In 2015, the government will accelerate the process of reform, upgrading and modernisation of the health sector, including the MCMH. Two central policy documents, among others, in the health sector will be elaborated in 2015.

The first relates to a comprehensive review of the nation’s health policy; and the second, the drawing up of a Patients’ Charter. The review will build upon work which is already being done. The Patients’ Charter will codify the rights of patients and their own obligations or responsibilities in relation to promoting and achieving their own healthy lifestyles.

Next week, we will look at the numerous projects to be implemented in the health sector, as we continue to tell this wonderful story.

Excerpts from the Hon. Arnhim Eustace’s 2015 Budget Presentation Mr. Speaker, I expect that this is the last time that I will be replying to the Budget. The people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines will take that decision.

Mr. Speaker, this is not an idle boast.

Our people are ‘fed up’ with the performance, or should I say ‘nonperformance of the government.

Today, we have in St. Vincent and the Grenadines an economy that is in the doldrums, with negative or low growth for the last several years, with very high unemployment rates, particularly among the youths; and a society where crime, particularly murder, is a major problem, and where high levels of rape and violence against women are commonplace and already attracting dubious international attention. A society where many of our citizens are beginning to question or lose confidence with the judiciary. A society where political victimization is the order of the day. A society where public corruption is high on the increase. A society where our major productivity sectors of agriculture, mainly bananas, are in the doldrums and tourism is going nowhere. The long delayed and costly Argyle International Airport, continues to cause huge fiscal problems for the government and the economy, because of the poor management of that project, the largest capital project in our history.

We live in a society where ‘Wrong has been Right’, and the government continues to delude itself. If I were paid for every time that project has been delayed, I would be a rich man.

On the other hand, if I were made accountable for the excessive overruns and other financial assets, I would be at Belisle cooling out. There are many in our society who turn a blind eye to the situation because they are afraid of victimization; so we continue to wallow while our country and people decline. We also have a National Insurance Service for which the Government deducted EC$23 million from its employees and held back the monies due to the NIS, thus endangering its liquidity and viability while at the same time implementing parametric reform.

was less than half of the amount allocated for capital expenditure, and even less than that spent in 2013, which stood at EC$151 million. I have no reason to expect 2015 to be otherwise.

The International Monetary Fund

During the period November 05 — 09, 2014, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission visited St Vincent and the Grenadines for the normally annual Article IV Consultation. It is important that we review and make our own assessment of their finding, preliminary though they may be.

The IMF projected growth in the economy of 1.1% for 2014. It should be noted that this growth originated in the construction, manufacturing, health, education and public administration. It should also be noted that the normal productive sectors of agriculture and fisheries and tourism were not listed. The IMF, however, was quick to indicate that the numerical growth rate can be achieved only if there is significant increase in the airport construction at Argyle. If not, that over-projected growth rate should be lower; but the IMF also said that if agriculture did better than experienced, the target could be achieved. No observer believes that agriculture could do better, particularly our bananas. The mission itself pointed out that in 2013 agriculture decreased by 3%. The IMF also pointed out that we can have 3% growth in 2015 if the Private Sector rebounds, and they also pointed to the fact that unemployment remains high.

In addition, the IMF points to the possibility of an increase in growth of 3% in 2016 if the airport is completed by 2015. They warned, however, that further delay in the airport completion will lead to a nonachievement of the 3% target. They expressly hoped that this growth rate will be achieved since lower fuel cost could lead to more direct flights, and The Estimates they have assumed that there will not be a serious global recession. One can The financial foundation of the budget can be found in the estimates see from their writings that the IMF is uncertain of the growth process of of revenue and expenditure for 2015.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines over Firstly, the estimate amount to EC$ 971.3 million, approximately EC$28.7 the next few years. A noteworthy million less than a billion for the year statement by the IMF is that the fiscal balance will probably be better 2015. This is comprised of EC$675 for 2014. They projected that the million of current expenditure and $296.3 million of capital expenditure, deficit will decline from the high level of 6 1/4 % of GDP in 2013 to about 4 and on the revenue side recurrent ¾% in 2014. Importantly, the IMF revenue of $532.3 million and on the makes the following statement. capital side #439 million. There is a While they have pointed to deficit of EC$142.6 million.

Annually, we are aware that Other improvement in looking at root causes Capital Receipts is always inflated of that performance, they see some though intended to pay the deficit. improvement in revenues as they What happens, however, and this has point to the most important factor been pointed out even in the IMF that government has reduced its Mission report for 2014, is the cause capital budget. That is, they have of the deficit of EC$142 million. done less projects. The IMF now Government is often unable to provide estimates that capital spending in counterpart funding for several 2014 is projected to reach about projects, and thus the amount 147million Eastern Caribbean dollars proposed for capital expenditure can (EC$147 million) out of a budget of never be realized, thus negatively 330 million Eastern Caribbean dollars affecting the growth prospects of the (EC$ 330 million). This performance economy. For instance, as indicated earlier, EC$330 million was available is even less than the 151 Eastern Caribbean dollars (EC$151 million for capital expenditure in 2014, but only EC$ 147 million was spent. That achieved in 2013.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 11.

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Amid Snipers and Snakes (Pt 3) Jomo’s Good News Message

“There is an underworld out there where the commodity and trading is seedy. We have to be on guard for those who encourage and profit from child pornography, paedophiles, sex slaves, human sacrifices, body parts, etc., etc.” - Jocelyn (Vincentian in the UK) THE E-MAIL MESSAGES and face-to-face discussions that have emerged from the two preceding publications (episodes) on this topic, Amid Snipers and Snakes, have convinced me that we needed to continue the dialogue. The intention is that as we share insights in this In Touch column, we will create a greater awareness of some of the snipers and snakes that may be lurking in our neck of the woods. We are especially mindful of how these exchanges can assist parents and guardians to be more alert and proactive as we seek to protect our children from the dangers and evils that may be lurking in their immediate physical and cyberspace environment.

Jocelyn, a Vincentian who now resides in the United Kingdom, sent through an e-mail highlighting the fact that the Internet now makes it relatively easy and attractive for individuals to prey on the innocent and unsuspecting. We could understand and appreciate that the greater the Internet access and the less adult supervision of these Internet activities, the greater the chance of someone pouncing on inexperienced and insecure web browser. There had been times (not so long ago) when those of us who reside in developing countries assumed that things like identity theft and the recruitment of sex slaves had been restricted to developed countries. However, we are increasingly made aware of how close some of these activities have come to our shores. There are individuals who visit some of our territories, offering to arrange marriages and promising a “better life in a developed country”. Others seek to entice young adults (especially females) to smuggle drugs across national borders, with the promise that they are highly unlikely to get caught. They may even proceed to commit to providing the funds and/or legal services to usher in a speedy release, should they (the “mule”) get caught. And while the expression “mule” may initially refer to those who “carry the burden,” it is probably fitting to refer to the carrier in such a manner since it also depicts the depth of the folly that they sink to when they agree to engage in such harmful and dangerous activities. We are to be on the lookout for these snipers and snakes. We are to tell the stories and anecdotes so that our people learn from the mistakes of others. We are thankful for the video documentaries (e.g.

Locked Up Abroad) that reveal how risky it is to seek to move illegal drugs across national borders.

Within recent times, we have learnt about the terrorist groups operating in the Middle East, that have recruited nationals from CARICOM countries. These are snipers and snakes who influence the adventurous, the religious fanatics, and those in search of “quick money” to fight in causes so far removed from our shores.

I am forever grateful to the feedback that I receive from readers.

One such regular reader from

Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Aldwyn LeQuay, shared some most useful insights on this topic. He describes the new breed of snipers and snakes as “hunters who show no mercy”. He noted that they are very cunning in the way they would bait their prey and that, once hooked, the outcome could be very devastating for the hooked. As I reflected on LeQuay’s observations, I reflected on how many individuals fall prey based on their own lusts, greed, and arrogance. I recalled those individuals who received letters or e-mail messages indicating that they had won the lotto in some foreign country. They never played the game, but they still want to benefit from the ill-gotten gains.

Some think that the person or office sending out the notice may have made an error and that they could trick the system by responding with the confirmation that they are the rightful owners of the sums of money.

Being enticed by greed (and wanting what is not rightfully ours) will always result in pain and heartache.

There are many Old Testament and New Testament passages that remind us of the virtue of not wanting what others have. We are cautioned to labour for what we need. Seeking a life of ease (and giving in to greed) will put us squarely in the pathway of snipers and snakes.

There are many old time stories, Anansi Stories, and folk lore that reinforce the value of being prudent and working hard for what is needed.

We need to regularly share these stories and anecdotes with our colleagues, friends, and relatives, as we seek to build stronger societies; societies where we do not engage in sniper and snake activities; societies in which we avoid the paths of those who lurk in the shadowy areas waiting to pounce on the innocent and unsuspecting; individuals who design and bait their snares and traps waiting for the gullible and foolish.

Some readers may have taken offence at my use of the last word in the preceding paragraph (foolish). Be assured that it is foolish to seek to engage in the activities of the underworld that Jocelyn’s opening quotation describes. Many have gone in with their eyes wide open, anticipating that they can enjoy those pleasures for a season. They bear the physical, emotional, and spiritual scars of those dangerous escapades.

Others have been forced into those activities by uncaring adults. We must seek them out and, as best we can, destroy the dark dungeons that they have created. And for those who have been victims of such snipers and snakes, we remind them that they are still God’s beautiful creation. We remind them that there are people out there (like you and me) who really care. We say, “Hold your head high!

Let the snipers and snakes know that they may have brought you low for a season, but this is your time now to rise, to sing, to fly again ... amidst snipers and snakes.”

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

ON MONDAY AFTERNOON, I made my contribution to the 2015 Budget. There is hardly a doubt that the presentation has created the most buzz. This is partly because some people have never heard me so passionately proclaim that the Unity Labour Party had a good news story to tell, and must tell it if it were to win a fourth consecutive term .

I spoke of the policies, programmess and achievements of the government in bringing much needed benefits to the people of SVG. It was a holistic presentation in which I dealt with: the big issues of climate change and the impact on our small nation; the state of our health and how with some personal discipline and responsibility we can live healthier lives; of the Petro Caribe Agreement, its positive impact on the nation,and demanded that opposition politicians end the scaremongering assault on our generous neighbour, Venezuela.

But my good news story is nothing new. Here’s what I said two days before the 2010 general elections in a piece entitled Decision 2010: ‘On Sunday evening, the 2010 election cycle will come to an end. On Monday morning, we will go to the polls and cast our vote in what is probably the most important election since independence. Some say that we will be deciding our fate for the next five years.

Maybe, (because) these elections may have more far reaching implications.

They may decide the life chances, especially of the poor and the youth, for the next generation.

‘The central issue facing the electorate is whether on record of achievements, development and articulation of ideas, demonstration of vision and implementation of its agenda and programs, this government deserves to be returned for a third term.

‘It is truthful and factual to assert that young people and the poor did not fare badly under the ULP administration. The youthful got scholarships to further their education, and parks for athletics and leisure. The poor received hundreds of new homes and title to lands on which they once squatted. Poverty, especially incidence of extreme poverty, where people were literally unable to keep body and soul together, was reduced from 25 percent to 2.9 percent.

‘Police men, nurses and civil servants saw their salaries rise appreciably after reclassification. It might not have climbed as they might have wanted, but the difficult financial and economic situation in the world mainly accounts for the slowdown and down turn in economic activity. Even so, the government’s policy of 100 percent guarantee on mortgages for government employees ably assisted many to get their own homes.

‘Even in this difficult period, the business community showed no visible signs of slacking off. No major lay off of workers was witnessed and some expansion took place. The elderly got needed assistance as government subsidy went from $50 in 2001 to $175, with a commitment for a 25 percent increase by January.

country is split down the middle. Two warring parties do battle for the governance of the state.

‘A further complication is that government ministers and PM Gonsalves have given large sections of the population occasions to pause. Apart from the compelling argument that man shall not live by bread alone, many claim that rights and freedoms relating to speech and association are their primary concerns. Government, they say, cannot or should not be credited for building roads and bridges, schools and resource centers, police stations and a diagnostic centre, because that is what government is all about–putting things in place to make people’s lives better.

Gonsalves’ simplest of responses has been that good policy is good politics.

They say a climate friendly to free debate rather than a we-against-them siege mentality must be fostered if the nation is to progress.

‘These views cannot be slighted. It is for this reason that people accuse me of being confusing. They expect me to pick a horse and back it to the end without ever criticizing. But I am prepared to let people keep their opinion while I hold tightly to facts.

‘An opposition back bencher said my commentaries amount to a virtual endorsement of a ULP third term. He even wanted to know why I remain loyal to Gonsalves after my dismissal from the Social Investment Fund, and the government’s refusal to honour the law regarding my application for duty free concessions on a vehicle. My reply was that our country’s future cannot be decided by personal grievances or personal slights or put downs.

‘My NDP friends frequently lament that my writings were one-sided because, while they highlighted the facts which recommended the ULP for a third term, they failed to showcase Gonsalves’ perceived mean spirited and high handedness, his vanity, overbearing and autocratic style of management.

‘I plead guilty to the charge, for I have made those same points while sparring with Gonsalves and his party.

For me though, those weaknesses and flaws of Gonsalves and the many failings of the ULP, while important and can stop anyone in their tracks, are underwhelming compared to the overwhelming record of ULP achievements chalked up during the last ten years.

‘Any sober minded analysis based on objective standards of measurements cannot escape the fact, not opinion, that this ULP government has been more transformative in its two terms than the opposition was during its 17 year occupancy of the corridors of power.

‘Facts are verifiable. Opinions are useful but can be a vexation to the spirit. You keep your opinion. I am prepared to use facts in an effort to persuade others to choose country over ‘Even with this panoramic sketch of self, and people-centered development national progress, numerous problems over narrow partisan politics. The abound. More than 20 percent of our choice on Monday is yours to make. I population is unemployed and 30 guess you know mine.’ percent remains mired in poverty.

While the ULP continues to build on Economic growth is anaemic, and crime, drugs, vice and decadence are a plague its good news story, nothing that the NDP has said or done convinces me that on the land. that outfit is capable or ready for ‘Much has been accomplished, but governance of SVG. the task of national redemption and sustainable development are ahead of us. Complicating this serious task of Send comments, criticisms & nation building is the fact that the suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

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12. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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ULP regime punishes Vincentians with more taxes THE ULP GOVERNMENT has announced that it will subject Vincentians to even more taxes. There will be new tariffs on curry powder, candles of paraffin wax, beers, malts, aerated water and a host of other items, including prepared animal feed. The tariffs will be extended to other commodities in due course.

For many years, Vincentians have suffered under the high taxes imposed by the financially incompetent ULP regime, and things will become worse with these new tax increases.

There is already a high level of poverty in SVG, but the ULP regime wants to punish Vincentians even more.

Increasing taxes, when the SVG economy is so weak, is a backward step. It illustrates the incompetence of the ULP regime in managing the economy, and shows that they do not have a clue

how to boost the economy and create new jobs.

Higher taxes means less disposable income for households. As a result, people will spend even less money in shops and other businesses, which means even more businesses will close down. As more and more businesses close down, there will be more job cuts and higher unemployment, which means less money for households …and so the downward spiral continues.

It is foolish to increase tax, as it will diminish further the pool of economic activity from which tax can be collected, and will dry up the economy.

These new taxes will have a devastating impact on businesses, many of which are experiencing their worst sales levels for decades.

These new taxes will cause more poverty

throughout the country.

Vincentian farmers will face additional struggles as they will have to pay more for their animal feed.

The financially incompetent ULP regime has also announced a 1% increase in the Customs Service Charge, which will see it rise to 5%. It is outrageous that Vincentians face increases in customs taxes, yet Taiwan and the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan get customs and tax exemptions worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

The super-rich of Mustique and Canouan can buy yachts and aircrafts, and get away with not paying any tax.

However, if Vincentians want a beer and a curry, they must pay tax. It is immoral that the Vincentian government practises such discrimination against

Vincentians.

A Green government will introduce a new and fair tax system. To reduce the burden on Vincentians and to help businesses grow and agriculture flourish, a Green government will abolish VAT and reduce the taxes that Vincentians must pay.

To compensate for

this, we will abolish the tax and customs exemptions given to Taiwan and the superrich of Mustique and Canouan, which are worth hundreds of millions of dollars. The IMF country report 2014 has called for this to happen. We will also collect the tax the superrich of Mustique and Canouan got away with not paying over these

past decades.

The children of SVG must come before the immorality and greed of the super-rich of Mustique and Canouan.

With lower taxes and no VAT under a Green government, households will be more able to provide for the needs and future of their children.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

‘What Islam Teaches’: A follow-up LAST WEEK, you carried my letter informing Vincentians that the claim in the previous week of THE VINCENTIAN about “What Islam Teaches”, was wrong. I received a phone call from a man I will call “Steve”, since that is what he called himself. He wanted to talk about what I wrote. In over 20 years of writing letters to the editor to this and the other local newspapers, this is the first time I ever got a response by phone. Sometimes I got emails where we continued discussions off the printed page. Being wary of Muslims (remember France, remember Trinidad?), I asked if “Steve” was a Muslim. A simple yes or no question, but the answer was along the lines he was studying Islam. We would meet at the gas station across from the original Kentucky Fried Chicken.

We met, and he asked if we (I had brought along a fellow Vincy preacher) would like to go to a place where we could relax and talk. Up to this point, I assumed just Steve and I would discuss the Bible and the Koran. While riding with me, he got on the phone, telling people to meet him at a certain place. I retrieved my vehicle and followed him to the “mosque” across from the Girls High School. This was not what I was expecting. Eventually there were six Muslims and myself and my friend. My friend volunteered to come, and really wanted to come. If he hadn’t, I would be solo against six. Three of them wore clerical robes. Two at least were from Trinidad. I was in front of the leadership of the new group of Muslims in St. Vincent. This was not intended to be friendly conversation.

From the beginning, they kept wanting to know where I lived. That is the only thing that occurred that made me uncomfortable. (remember France?)

In the beginning, they wanted to know what I meant in my letter. They asked if I brought a Koran, and they brought out a Koran, and while reading similar passages, they read differently. Upon returning home, I checked some other passages in a different Koran I have, and it was truly different. I stand by my statement in the previous letter: the Koran has many variations, a lot depends upon what version you have. If you can read Arabic, there are different versions there also.

In the beginning, they stated that

they believed in Jesus, and the Bible was a holy book, like the Koran. In a two-hour discussion that they dominated as best they could, I found out that “Steve” was a Shiite and he is the one who submitted letters one and two “What Islam Teaches” to THE VINCENTIAN. So much for studying to be a Muslim; “Steve” is a Muslim. He also has a Muslim name. Wonder why he didn’t identify himself as a Muslim in the beginning?

So “Steve” wanted a private conversation? Not so.

So “Steve” is not really yet a Muslim? Not true.

Was “Steve” interested in what the Bible said? I don’t think so.

As the questions kept coming, I kept giving answers from the Bible. Finally the leader kept demanding I quit reading from the Bible, quit quoting scripture. I would say, “My answer is found here in the Bible…”, and they still didn’t like for me to quote or read scripture.

They agreed Allah didn’t have a son — and therefore, what I wrote in the first letter stands: Allah of the Koran and the God of the Bible are different, radically different.

Since Allah doesn’t have a son, John 3:16 is therefore, not valid to them.

They do not believe that Jesus is God the Son. Did they not notice when Jesus’ disciples came to him and asked Him to teach them how to pray, it starts “Our Father…” To be a father, there has to be a son.

In Matthew through Mark, in the KJV Bible, Father is found 73 times, most of the time referring to God the Father. While they consider Jesus one of their prophets, most of the 73 times referring to God, Jesus spoke the word Father.

In the Koran, “Father” is found 48 times, NOT ONCE referring to their God. I asked them the attributes of God. None of the six men mentioned Holy or righteous. Holy is found 16 times in the Koran, twice referring to the Holy Spirit, which they don’t believe in, so I can’t count that. Only twice does it refer to their God. The KJV Bible has the word Holy 544 times.

Yes, Christianity and Muslims have a different God. In Christ, Alan Berry

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 13.

Education

always have the parents’ both educators, quipping, “Hats off to Miss. Peters support, and we make THE PETERSVILLE Primary this a part of the and her mother.”

School staged its week of calendar, since reading is activities to celebrate knowledge.”

Literacy Week, this week.

She admitted that Christine Martin, there is a problem with Literacy Coordinator at reading in the schools, the School, told THE and appealed to the VINCENTIAN that the parents to do some extra week of activities started work with their children. last Monday and will The Petersville conclude today, Friday.

Primary School will be Martin said that they celebrating its 50th held a class competition anniversary this year. and a reading The late Mrs. Edna competition on Monday Peters started the school, and Tuesday offering lessons under respectively. her house. Through the The highlight of the years, the school has week was a march on turned our hundreds of Wednesday. It took persons who have made students, teachers and and continue to make parents along a route vital contributions to from the School at nation-building.

Kingstown Park, through The administration of Block 2000, down North the school now rests in River Road, taking a left the capable hands of her at the St. Joseph’s daughter, Roslyn Peters.

Convent, up and down Martin paid tribute to Wilson Hill, from which marchers took a left turn for their way back to the school.

The students, in particular, donned creatively designed and crafted hats, carrying slogans in keeping with the theme, ‘Restoring our Nation’s Youth’. The marchers sang lustily as they made their trek.

The march attracted the attention of persons along the route, with many commending the students on the way they were turned out.

Yesterday, Thursday, Grade 4 and 5 students were involved in a House Reading competition, and today the entire school enrolment will participate in a reading extravaganza. Each class was expected to perform an item in drama, dance, song and/or poetry.

“We are stressing the importance of reading as THE VINCENTIAN fun,” stated Martin. featured among the She shared that “Over many hats that boasted a variety of designs the years, we would and slogans.

by KENVILLE HORNE

The march was a happy occasion for those students and adults who participated. Christine Martin is at left front.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 15.

14. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

PM: Airport heading for end of year finish The earthworks Work being done on the Southern Turning Head of the runway. were now 97 percent complete, Dr. Gonsalves said, with the remaining work expected to be completed by the end of March.

Work on the Yambou drainage systems is expected to be completed by the end of April, to allow for the asphalt pavement works on that section of the runway.

A significant portion of drainage work was completed in 2014, the Prime Minister said, with the remainder expected to be done by the end of the first Story: DAYLE DA SILVA quarter of the year. during the presentation of the 2015 Photo Credit: IADC Asphalt works and Budget last week Wednesday, the concrete works on the excessive inclemency of the weather CONSTRUCTION WORK at the Internaaerodrome are scheduled and delays in the receipt of negotiattional Airport at Argyle is expected to to be completed by the ed funds by the IADC, have hambe completed by the end of 2015, Prime end of May this year, and pered the pace of the construction of Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves assured the process relating to the airport. the members of the House of Assembly. installation of airfield Among the work to be completed This, he said, was the advice his lighting has begun, and is are the Yambou River and other government had received from the progressing well, Dr. drainage systems, pavement works, International Airport Development Gonsalves explained. airfield lighting and other work Company (IADC).

Progress continued on related to the design unit, quality “We accept these assurances as the land site facilities, control systems, wind studies and the reasonable,” Dr. Gonsalves said. with the terminal building regulatory oversight of the Eastern According to the Prime Minister, and electrical substation Caribbean Civil Aviation facilities being completed Authority (ECCAA).

The Control Tower is complete by the end of December Work to be completed and awaits retro-fitting.

2013. on the land site facility Work on the control tower includes the passenger has all but finished, and a terminal building, the Canadian company is expected control tower and to undertake the retro-fitting of the navigational aids, the tower, and to work on the on-field aircraft, rescue and operation, the airport access and navigational lighting. fire-fighting station and circulation roads and parking lot, The fire and rescue station is equipment, the cargo other access roads and landscaping. complete. Equipment has been terminal, aircraft procured and is expected to arrive Scheduled work hangar, fixed base shortly.

The cargo terminal will be retro-fitted The Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Station, shown by the end of here still under construction, is now complete. the third quarter, and the IADC has allocated space for the construction of three private hangars.

“The IADC has also earmarked a parcel of land for lease to a private firm, for the construction of a fixed base

Work continues on the path through which the Yambou River will be re-routed.

operation to provide specialised service to private jets, and high networking individuals,” Dr. Gonsalves said.

The fuel facility is expected to be constructed by Rubis, and will be completed by the end of June.

The access roads to the airport site are in progress, and should also be completed by the end of June, the Prime Minister assured.

Non-construction matters Regarding concerns not directly related to the physical construction, Prime Minister Gonsalves informed that wind studies at the site of the Argyle International Airport are ongoing, and that those studies completed to date show

no crosswinds sufficient to affect the safe operation of the airport.

His disclosure came amidst concerns about crosswinds coming from different quarters – political and non-political – of the society.

The Prime Minister also disclosed, though he did not specify name and number, that several airlines have expressed interest in adding St. Vincent and the Grenadines to their routes. He expects that air services agreements will be confirmed during the first half of 2015.

A similar time-frame has been accorded the process leading up to the finalisation in respect of management of the airport.

Cost to completion of the Airport is set at EC$729 million, according to the Prime Minister.

Work continues on the retaining wall at the terminal parking lot.

Terminal access road under development.

Preparing to pave the general Aviation apron.

Substantial paving on the commercial apron has already been undertaken.

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DIGICEL, LOVE and a CAR

DIGICEL CUSTOMERS have a chance to win a Suzuki Swift vehicle this Valentine’s month, February.

In a show of love for its many, many, many customers, The car that’s up for the ‘winning’ in the Digicel Valentine’s both Month Promotion. It’s no gimmick. prepaid and postpaid, shown, we thought we should do Digicel has launched its Valentine’s something significant for our month promotion, which required that customers,…. ,so we decided to go for its customers text ‘CAR’ to 1130, for a something big to give!” said John chance to drive away in the Swift.

Gidharry country manager, of the Each text costs $1.00 and a promotion. customer can text as many times as he Digicel continues to find new and or she desires. innovative ways to show our “Our customers truly have inspired customers how much they mean to us, us ever since our launch here in SVG, especially in the month of love, and this relationship has only grown assured the telecommunications stronger and stronger, so during the service provider in a release this week. month when appreciation is best

V FSC buying bananas

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“IF YOU ARE into banana production and need a market for your bananas, the FSC is here to assist you.”

That was the word from Charlene Garrick, Manager of the Farmers Support Company.

Garrick, in a release from the Ministry of Agriculture, dated February 4, 29015, confirmed that the FSC, “is presently buying bananas at $18 per box.”

The Manager admitted that many farmers are not aware of the initiative, and the recent release to the media targeted banana farmers, encouraging them to take full advantage of the opportunity for selling their produce through the FSC. “I know some farmers would remember that this was done in the days of selling bananas for the Fair Trade, so this is something sort of like

Students to learn more about Scholarships to Taiwan IN ORDER to encourage outstanding Vincentians to study in Taiwan for higher education, Ambassador Baushuan Ger of the Republic of China (Taiwan) will make presentations on 2015 Taiwan Scholarships at SVG Community College and Open Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI).

The first presentation will be held at the Division of Technical and Vocational Education on February 12 at 10:00 a.m. The second one will take place at Ambassador Baushuan Ger of the Republic of the Division of Arts, China (Taiwan) will lead Science and General the presentations that will Studies on February highlight higher 18 at 10:00 a.m. The education opportunities third and the last available in Taiwan. presentation is to be held at UWI Open Campus on February 26 at 4:30 p.m.

The aforesaid presentations are aimed to brief the audience on general information on the categories, benefits, qualifications, requirements, and application procedure of the Scholarships. Mr. Gordon Shallow, President of SVG Taiwan Alumni Association, Ms. Tasheka Haynes, President of Taiwan ICDF Alumni Society, and their members are invited to share the experience of study in Taiwan at the presentations.

The Embassy welcomes Vincentian students who are interested in pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including a 4-year postgraduate program for medicine study in Taiwan, to attend the presentations. (Contributed)

that, that we are bringing back…,” Garrick is quoted as saying.

The manager pointed to encouraging signs in the rehabilitation of the banana industry.

She alluded to the “plants” that were distributed on the Leeward and Windward sides of the mainland St. Vincent, as beginning to bear fruit.

According to the Manager, recent weekly shipments of bananas have been showing a steady increase.

Weekly shipments of bananas are said to be showing a steady increase.

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18. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

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Cannabis Revival Committee formalised

Some of the persons who met last Saturday to formalise the Cannabis Revival Committee.

FOLLOWING two consultations held in rural areas here, a number of individuals met last Saturday, January 31, at the UWI Open Campus, Kingstown, and formalised a Cannabis Revival

use and cultivation of cannabis: decriminalisation and legalisation; alternative livelihood; and medical cannabis.

The Committee’s deliberation of Saturday

Committee (CRC).

According to a release reaching THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday, the Committee is founded on three primary pillars of concern related to the

endorsed the view that the illegalization of the ‘herb’ (cannabis) retards the development and progress of our youths and, by extension, the very future of our country, giving rise to its (Committee) call for the decriminalization of cann abis, and ultimately, its legalization.

The gathering recognised the designation possession of cannabis - no matter how small the quantity — as a criminal offence in SVG, and noted that many persons, particularly the young, are imprisoned as a result and are deemed criminals henceforth.

While recognising that cultivation and distribution of cannabis as a major

contributor to the Vincentian economy, albeit informal economy, the CRC accepted that this cannot be good for St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and called for alternative economic options, including the promotion of safe and sustainable alternative use of this plant.

With respect to medical cannabis, the CRC gave wholesome support to the efforts of Prime Minister Dr Ralph E. Gonsalves, aimed at having CARICOM leaders engage in this discussion, and urged this body “to stop dragging their feet on the matter.”

According to the CRC, CARICOM leaders “must also consult, engage and

include all stakeholders in their cannabis reform initiative.”

Last Saturday’s meeting saw an interim committee being elected.

The executive includes Junior ‘Spirit’ Cottle — Chairman, Alvin Buffa Collins - General Secretary, Hassan Kennedy - Financial Comptroller, JP Schwmon — Secretary, Bongo Shaka Dabreo Public Relations Officer, Empress Modupe Olufunmi - Education Officer, and Committee members Ajit Duncan, Ras Yacob and Ras Zebi.

The CRC plans to host several consultations and education initiatives across the state.

Rise up Bequia to host Talent Expo development, education, agency and outreach.

AN EXCITING ‘Talent “Rise up Bequia is on Expo’ is scheduled for a quest to improve the Saturday 28th February lives of others. It has at The Clive Tannis provided substantial Playing Field, Port support to the Red Cross Elizabeth, Bequia. during the December The ‘Expo’ will floods of 2013. Last showcase the talents of year, we provided residents of Bequia. support to 140 school Performances are children affected by the expected to feature a floods of 2013, painted diverse range of musical and cleaned the Bequia genres, and other Library, and provided components of the gift vouchers valued performing arts. $100.00 each to 33 The event is children still reeling organised by the nonfrom the December profit organisation floods,” Ollivierre said. called Rise up Bequia.

“With the support of One of the Directors the general public, Rise of the organisation, up Bequia can continue Dillon Ollivierre, said its outreach,” suggested the organisation’s Ollivierre, who added, mission is to build and “Rise Up Bequia’s strengthen core ideas mandate and successful and practices of sustainable community mission will demonstrate how acts of

by KENVILLE HORNE

Dillon Ollivierre, Director of Rise Up Bequia, is confident that his organization can fulfil its broad mandate when it attracts support from the public. generosity and longterm effects of selflessness will contribute to an active, healthy and sustainable local community.”

Entrance fee to the ‘Talent Expo’, slated for an 8:00pm start, is $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for children 12 years and under.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 19.

Court

Twins on gun charges again

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS ABOUT SIX MONTHS after twins Mike and Michael Prescott appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on a charge of attempted murder, they were back in court charged with firearm and ammunition possession.

The twins, along with Showayne Phillips, all residents of Lowmans Leeward, appeared at the Serious Offences Court on Monday charged with

Trini businessman’s matter for trial Some nine months after Robert ‘Bobby’ Montano, 93-year-old Trinidadian businessman, and holder of his country’s Humming Bird Medal, was allegedly beaten and left unconscious at his hotel room on the Grenadine Isle of Bequia, Vincentian teenager Recolson Quashie has been committed to stand trial in connection with the matter.

At the conclusion of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) at the Serious Offences Court on Monday, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias ruled

Robert ‘Bobby’ Montano returned to St. Vincent, in a wheel chair, to testify at the PI.

that a prima facie case was made out for Quashie to answer.

The 18-year-old of Cemetery Hill, Bequia, will be tried in the High Court on charges of attempted murder and aggravated burglary, at a sitting of the Criminal Assizes.

The charges reportedly stem from an incident at a well-known hotel in Bequia between April 8 and 9 last year, during which Montano was beaten in the head and relieved of an Iphone.

Six witnesses testified for the prosecution at the P.I, including Montano.

Montano was said to be vacationing with his son, Ronald Montano, in Bequia, when the incident reportedly occurred. He had visited Bequia on previous occasions.

Montano was flown back to Trinidad within hours of the incident, in a plane owned and piloted by Ronald, a former BWIA pilot, and was warded at the St. Clair Medical Centre, Port-of-Spain.

Montano underwent surgeries to the head and eyes and is still

possession of, without licences, one Lakefield Mossbery 12-gauge shot gun, five rounds of 12guage ammunition, and one firearm, make and serial number unknown.

The offences were reportedly committed last Friday, January 30, at Buddy Gutter, Lowmans Bay. The trio pleaded not guilty to the charges before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias.

Mike Prescott has been charged separately with having without licences, an Aceiato Vichor 12-guage shot gun and two rounds of 12guage shot gun ammunition.

Those offences were also reportedly committed at Buddy Gutter on the same day.

He pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The three men were remanded following objections to bail by Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche, who informed the Court that the police were still conducting their investigations. He also indicated that the Prescotts were on bail for an offence in which a firearm was allegedly Teenager Recolson used.

Quashie will face the High Court on charges of attempted murder and aggravated robbery. undergoing therapy for one of his hands. He moves around with the aid of a wheelchair.

Montano’s Humming Bird Medal, bestowed in 1975, was in recognition of his contribution to the economic and cultural development of Trinidad and Tobago. He is credited as one of those persons responsible for establishing the Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation (PLIPDECO).

Trio charged in ganja haul EVEN as persons here associated with the use of cannabis/marijuana formed themselves into an organization to demand changes to the laws governing the use of the herb (see page 18), the courts of SVG continue to enforce the laws that make the possession of marijuana illegal.

As recent as this week, three men were each granted $180,000 bail with two sureties, when they appeared in court charged in connection with the seizure of 224,276 grams

of marijuana last at the Serious Offences Court on Wednesday.

Sunday.

Tevin John and Raoly They will return to Court on April 27.

Bowens, both of Rose The trio was arrested Place, along with during a police operation Raffique Dopwell of Ottley Hall, are charged off the coast of Bequia last Sunday. with possession of the drug with intent to supply, and possession for the purpose of drug trafficking.

The men were not required to plea to the charges when they appeared before Chief Magistrate Marijuana is said to be grown Rechanne Browne-Matthias extensively in SVG.

Michael ‘Twin’ Prescott (left) and Mike ‘Twin’ Prescott were on bail for other offences when they appeared in Court on Monday to answer to different charges.

Delpleche assured the Court that the Prosecution would have been ready to proceed in relation to the three defendants by yesterday (Thursday). They were represented by attorney Israel Bruce.

The Prescotts, 24 at the time, had appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court June 18 last year, charged on three counts of attempted murder in connection with the shooting of Lowmans Leeward residents Kenny Edwards, Kelon Baptiste and Askey Roberts; three counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger the lives of Edwards, Baptiste and Roberts; and three counts of unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Those charges stem from a shooting incident at Lowmans Leeward, June 16, 2014. A Preliminary Inquiry in relation to that matter is slated for March 4.

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20. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Keep your silence Permission to and I am sure she will go stone crazy if she finds I KNOW that you might say out what he is doing behind her back. this is none of my My question to you is: business; but I am moved What should I do about to say that one day while what I saw? I want to do at work at a hotel, I was something. shocked to see a certain individual entering a room Unsure with a woman, who is a good friend of my wife, Dear Unsure, and who is married to someone I know.

You are so correct in This man I am talking saying it is absolutely about also has his wife,

cheat, please

Dear George,

Dear George,

none of your business, and besides, as a worker at a hotel, you are required to be and remain very professional.

In this case, going

about leaking confidential information to the outside can be deemed unethical, and can result in damaging the image of the hotel.

Your business there is to do your task to the best of your ability, and not to be concerned about who is coming and going.

George

I HAVE ALWAYS wanted to be with one woman, but now that I am in a relationship with a beautiful woman, I am seeing many other beautiful women whom I want to be with. I do not know how to say this to my girlfriend. I am wondering if I should suggest to her that she allow me to be with at least one of these women, or else risk losing me totally. I know she loves me and might want to compromise and agree to my suggestion. At least I will be honest when I tell her that, and should be given credit. Don’t you think?

Curious Dear Curious, Let me see if I got you correctly. You are planning on disrespecting your girlfriend by asking her to grant you the privilege of dating another woman, while you are still together, and will threaten to leave if she does not agree.

You need to be honest with her and let her know that you are not ready to settle down, and that you feel the need to date more until you can figure out what you truly want. In this way, you are asking if she could move on with her life and leave you to your fantasies. If you can do that, then that will be an exercise in perfect honesty.

Go ahead and be honest! She needs to benefit from your honesty.

George

Not smelling like a rose Dear George, PHEW! THERE is this girl whom I have always admired from a distance, until one day I got bold enough to ask her out. We have been going steady now for one month.

After I committed myself to loving her, I discovered that she has a very offensive body odour, which I somehow did not pick up earlier. I have realised that this is a permanent problem with her, and I am very concerned about it.

I am someone who loves to smell good, and I am worried that my girl’s body odour will affect my ability to be with her. I do not know how to tell her about it. What if when I tell her, she decides to leave?

Dear PHEW, You have had enough time to raise your concern with to your girlfriend. A relationship should be built on honesty, and you are required to be honest with her and let her know.

Why not tell her, and together come up with a plan for solving this problem? You may be surprised by how easy such a problem can be resolved.

My advice to you is that the next time you smell her, you should tell her. Good Luck!

George

Leisure

Aries (Mar. 21- April 20) Look at the big picture. Don’t let a stressful moment interfere with a love connection. Chill out, slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. When it involves money, be business–like to keep an arrangement open and honest.

Taurus (Apr. 21- May 21) Love is in the stars! An intense love exchange could have some of you racing to the altar. There is too much happening in your life to get involved in other people’s drama. Focus on your own priorities. Hard work will pay off – be patient!

Gemini (May 22-June 21) Life is about to enter the first class category! Your financial position is set to improve with your budget catering to champagne tastes. A creative concept can show others that you are a class act. Join the A–list party goers to find love.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) Prepare to be lucky in love! Affectionate moments are yours for the asking.

Someone’s caring and sharing attitude can win your heart. A family environment brings emotional security.

Spending money on your home provides enjoyment.

Leo (July 23-Aug 22) Your work wish–list can now be granted. Schmoozing the boss can go a long way in rising up the ranks. Money mix–ups are possible – double check finances. A creative idea could be a stroke of genius, don’t underestimate your ability.

Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) If you have an influx of cash, invest it wisely. Be careful of divulging personal business, not everyone is trustworthy. If you want to get your message across at work, communicate to the right people.

To let love in, share inner thoughts.

Libra (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) This is your time to shine! An abundance of planets signify the commencement of a new solar cycle. You have the power to change your life; all you need to do is change your attitude. When it concerns love, listen to your heart. Powerful and passionate feelings provide you with all the answers you need.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Venus radiates love vibes in your direction, your popularity is on the rise.

When all else fails at work, use your common sense to find answers. Health and happiness go together. When life gets hectic, you need to look after your wellbeing. Long hours giving back to others can take its toll.

Sagittarius (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) To keep more money in your pocket, be creative. Your next move at work can cause a domino effect of new opportunities. It’s a chain reaction that puts you in a positive position. When love and friendship go together, it can be long–lasting.

Capricorn (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Looking for love? The love of your life could be associated with work. Love and life take time to perfect. Don’t sit back and wait for life to happen, when it’s about your career, fight for what you want. Family communications need attention, keep your schedule flexible.

Aquarius (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Money setbacks can now diminish with extra cash due to head your way. When everyone is emotional about family matters, you can be the practical one. If someone is being difficult, it may be time to tell him or her a few home truths.

Pisces (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Money setbacks can now diminish with extra cash due to head your way. When everyone is emotional about family matters, you can be the practical one. If someone is being difficult, it may be time to tell him or her a few home truths.

ACROSS 1.Harmful 4. Specification (abbr.)

8. Proposer’s support 12. Broad street (abbr.)

13. Pocket for feta 14. Capitol __ 15. Part of L.A. 16. Sacred picture 17. “__ Well…”

18. Bric-a-brac bit 21. Bandleader Brown 22. Toxin 26. Bordered 29. No longer working (abbr.)

30. Bandleader Kyser 31. Lone __ 32. School vehicle 33. Clever people 34. Cain’s mother 35. Asian holiday 36. Slip-up 37. Grain sower 39. Tennis round

40. Play modified for TV, e.g.

45. Attentiongetting Sound 48. Filched 49. The limit, for some 50. Footgear 51. Sommer of “The Prize” 52. Vexation 53. Work the bar 54. Husky’s vehicle 55. Natalie Cole’s dad

20. Hotel’s furnace extra bed 41. Opinion __ 23. “__ it!”

42. The fat __ 24. Cereal the fire 1.Pitcher’s grasses (2 wds.) illegal 25. Wall St. 43. Green pods motion market for gumbo 2. Bard’s river 26. Lady lambs 44. No, to Yuri 3. Lucy’s ‘50s 27. Cooing bird costar 4. Added liquor 28. Happy feeling to 29. Worn track 5. Selects 32. Scolds 6. Collar style 33. Electrical 7. Appetizers unit 8. Slacks shade 35. Newscaster 9. Zero __ Koppel 10. Building 36. Lost air addition 11. High trains 38. Out of style 19. Musical sign 39. Feed a DOWN

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 21.

45. California’s time (abbr.)

46. Ship’s pronoun 47. George W., to Barbara

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22. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Eustace worried about NIS

it operate as a private institution and because there is a problem with government pension growing at a very rapid rate.

The change was made for civil servants to come over to the NIS, and Eustace said that he insisted on having it done The National Insurance Services provides pensions, disability in this assistance and a list of other services, to both public and manner, private sector workers.

NIS for all of us because he had faith that payments that is being his world because you He said that he did the institution was going offered today.” are committed to pay not want the civil service to remain, come what He reminded the people’s pensions until mentality to contaminate may.

House that thousands of they leave this earth,” he the NIS, but rather have “Therefore,” the people will depend on the continued.

Opposition leader NIS for their pensions.

“So we don’t see it appealed, “all should be “We already pushing fading away; it has to concerned when it comes back pension age; you stay and it has to remain to ensuring the NIS is know why, because we viable at all times, in viable and sustainable, worried about viability,” order to meet its root crop market in drop in the number of or else in the long run, it said Eustace. commitment to the banana farmers had Trinidad and Tobago. will no longer be able to “[The] NIS should be people and not be a drain begun in 2001, Caesar The question of overmake the type of there till God comes for on the government.” provided information to production, however, wit, that 53 per cent of occupied Caesar’s the banana farmers left attention. Plans to send the industry between some of the produce to the 1993 and 2001.

United Kingdom, using A former recipient of a the same vessels that banana scholarship, transport bananas, have Caesar pointed out that been arranged. there was a “fundamental The Agriculture difference between a Minister was particularly

by DAYLE DA SILVA banana field and the pleased with the increase banana industry.” in prices for rhizomes, OFFICIAL WORD from The Minister moved to and announced plans to the St Vincent and the assure that his Ministry plant more arrowroot.

Grenadines Coast Guard was re- building the He noted that (SVGCG) is that recovery banana sector “in a Arrowroot Starch was efforts for the remains of sustainable and viable selling at US $50 a pound, the two students involved manner.” but that “farmers were in the deadly crash at He boasted of his Rock Gutter on January not rewarded sufficiently.” administration’s subsidy 12, 2015, have been Caesar assured on fertiliser, currently at temporarily suspended.

Vincentians that there a price of $80 per sack Head of the SVGCG, will be enough livestock since the fall in oil prices. for local consumption, Commander Brenton For Caesar, the Black Caine, told THE even though a brisk trade Sigatoka was not the only has developed for cattle to VINCENTIAN that the thing which hampered the Grenada. A Cuban expert Commander search for the missing industry.

Brenton Caine bodies have been called in Artificial Insemination Among the steps aimed is scheduled to arrive here gave official word off, pending any further at reviving the crop was that the search had major development. in less than a week. the strengthening of the been called off, This decision was The theft from Tissue Culture taken on January 25, though he expects legitimate farmers is a Laboratory where 60 Caine said. his regular patrols worry to Caesar. He is persons are employed.

He, however, stated will continue to also concerned about the “Efforts will be that the Coast Guard are keep an eye out for removal of animals. He is sustained to revive the still on the lookout for any signs of the hoping that when the banana industry,” he told Police stop and search any signs, during routine missing persons. the House, as he patrols. vehicles for stolen items, recognised how important travellers will not feel Up to press time, Wednesday, the bodies of the industry was to inconvenienced.

Chanstacia Stay, a Form sustaining ancillary Caesar outlined a Fisheries Complex.

3 student of the North Union services and vice versa. reciprocal trade with But Petty Officer Lennox Williams, Secondary School, and Symonique The case of the decline in Grenada, and advanced specialist diver with the local Coast Ballantyne, a Form 2 student of the activities at the Container plans for a local Spice Guard, said he responded and Georgetown Secondary School, have Corporation as demands industry. conducted a search along the area, not been recovered. for boxes fell after 2010, He praised the During a media briefing hosted by but after hours of searching, nothing was highlighted. operations of the Farmers the hierarchy of the Royal St Vincent was sighted.

During the period, Support Company, and Stay and Ballantyne were among and the Grenadines Police Force and Caesar admitted that announced $6M more for those on board the mini-bus which the Coast Guard on January 21, it some banana farmers farmers to borrow at two plunged into the sea on the morning was disclosed that the only break to have turned to other percent interest. of January 12, killing five including date was a report by a fisherman, crops. This was proving Caesar praised farmers Jamalie and Jamall Edwards, that he had sighted what was said to productive as SVG was for repaying the loans Racquel Ashton, Anique Alexander be a human limb, off the Owia able to record a 98 per they have taken so far. and Glenroy Michael. cent penetration of the

required for payment to the NIS. THE NATIONAL INSURANCE It was revealed in SERVICES (NIS) is a August last year that the financial, non-bank government was guilty of institution, and ought to deducting NIS be treated as such. contributions from civil So said Leader of the servants, but not turning Opposition, Arnhim it over to the institution, Eustace, during his resulting in government contribution to the 2015 taking to Parliament a Budgetary Debate. resolution to enter into According to the 2015 an agreement with the Estimates of Revenue NIS, to raise the EC$15 and Expenditure, million it owed in Government’s obligation, outstanding as an employer, to the contributions.

NIS is projected to But Eustace said, in amount to EC$57.9 his presentation, that all million. efforts must be made to And although the local ensure the sustainability social security system and viability of the NIS. has been in existence for “You can’t do that and a short time, Eustace hold back the was of the view that the contributions to the NIS, government was already One counters the other; finding itself in a “bind,” they need the liquidity at to generate the funds the NIS.” Eustace

by DAYLE DA SILVA

explained.

“They (NIS) need the cash to invest, and make more money… to put it on a sound footing — you can’t take away the money, deduct it from people’s salary and then don’t pay it over; that’s a criminal act.”

Eustace recalled that one of the decisions he made during his tenure as chairman of the NIS was to go to the civil servants and request that they make a decision to either remain on the government’s pension programme, or come over to the NIS.

Movements in Agriculture

Search for missing victims called off

Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar says his Ministry is not afraid of the challenges facing the agriculture sector.

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY “AGRICULTURE IS CRITICAL to the nation’s development.”

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Saboto Caesar reiterated this during his contribution to the Budget Debate last week Wednesday, and assured the House and the nation that, “We are not afraid of challenges,” and that when problems arise, “it is our job to find solutions.”

Caesar traced the history of the banana industry, the focus of much national discussion, as that industry faced a hard road to recovery.

And while he said that he was not blaming the opposition New Democratic Party for the decline in the industry, he provided statistics to bolster his presentation, and made it clear that neither was the ULP to blame.

In disputing that the

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 23.

Zefal Bailey: Top cyclist for 2014

TEENAGED CYCLIST Zefal Bailey has notched up another Cyclist of the Year acclamation.

Bailey took the top award when the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union held its 2014 awards ceremony last Saturday night, at the Murray Heights Hotel.

Participating in category one over the last year’s cycling calendar of events, Bailey triumphed in five races and placed second in the other eight.

He nipped Cammie Adams, who participated in nine events, placing first in seven and third in the other two.

This effort also propelled Bailey to the top of Category One riders, and he added another trophy to his cupboard winner, winning the award for the Best Performance in an Event, having recorded the fastest average speed in a 35-mile road race.

Bailey, who was named Cyclist of

Lucky Antrobus gets his Most Improved Cyclist award from Stephen Joachim. the Year in 2013, is not ruling out copping the title a third straight year, when the 2015 awards are hosted.

“I am going for it again, to make it three in a row,” Bailey said. confidently.

Topping the category Two was the

Tops in the category two- Peter Durrant accepts is award from Jacintha Ballantyne. ‘ageless’ Peter Durrant, who participated in all thirteen events on the 2014 calendar.

Orel George, who contested eleven of the thirteen races and who rides in Category Two, was named the Most

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Dominic Stowe, Committee Member, in charge of Technical Matters during the interim. with two months before the AGM, that it would make much sense in electing someone to the position, so Mr. Stowe is handling things until them,” Huggins explained.

President Venold Coombs, in responding to a question about Ollivierre’s resignation, seemed not too concerned, choosing just to say that it was a few “matters relating to immigration” that appear to be affecting Ollivierre’s movement.

Ollivierre was popular choice to replace Small who resigned, citing 21 reasons for ending his tenure of just over two years. Among the reasons was what he described as possible manipulated fixtures in

Consistent Cyclist.

And, Lucky Antrobus copped the Most Improved Cyclist of the Year, edging out Marlon Wilkinson for the award.

The immediate future

SVGFF First VP resigns amid claims of mischief to keep abreast of what was taking place with the sport, THE ST. VINCENT and the even while being out of the Grenadines Football state; but it appears that Federation (SVGFF) is this has resulted in without an elected First problems developing, “in Vice-president for the that my continued absence second time in less than two is now being used in some years. quarters to create mischief This has come about that does not mirror my following the immediate steadfast commitment to the resignation of the man who development of the sport held the post up to Monday, here”.

Kenton Ollivierre.

Ollivierre said that, as On Tuesday, Ollivierre, always, he decided to put who was elected to the post the interest of football above following the departure of self, and this resulted in Lloyd Small, tendered his him taking this decision, resignation, and cited his cognizant that Elections are absence from the state for a due in April, two or so possible prolonged period, months away. for his decision.

The former 1st VP said “Just a year ago, I’ve had that he foresees no major the distinguished honour to administrative problem with serve football on the his departure, since he national level. I anticipated received information that at the time to serve the full someone has already been remaining tenure of the charged with the current executive up to responsibilities of technical April 2015.However, my matters, which fell within personal and family the purview of the 1st VP. commitments have changed Trevor Huggins, General considerably over the past few months, requiring me to Secretary, said Dominic Stowe, Committee Member, be out of State for a has been handed the considerably but responsibilities but not the unexpectedly long period”, position. his letter explained.

“We do not think that He said that he had tried

Zefal Bailey- poses with his trophies.

Outgoing 1st VP, Kenton Ollivierre. competitions run by the SVGFF. Ollivierre resoundingly defeated Osborne Bowens in a two- man contest for the position, and promised then, to work in the best interest of the sport at all times.

He once again reiterated this in the closing paragraph of his letter of resignation: “I have given the current executive my best wishes. I remain steadfast in my commitment to the game, and will continue to serve diligently at all levels. I look forward to returning to the local fraternity when my family commitments allow me to so do”.

Last Saturday’s event saw several sponsors being presented with tokens of appreciation.

Addressing the ceremony were President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Cycling Union, Trevor Bailey, and Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture, Hon. Cecil Mc Kie. The Cycling Union’s head disclosed that St Vincent and the Grenadines is on course to receive a BMX cycle track, courtesy the US Cycling Federation.

Bailey also revealed that during this month, ten cycles will arrive to facilitate the continuation of the Grassroots Cycling programme.

The cycles, he said, would come from the Pan American Cycling Federation.

Among other plans of the SVG Cycling Union is the move to establish a women’s commission, while in October of this year, St Vincent and the Grenadines will host the Caribbean Masters Championships which, according to Bailey, has been already oversubscribed.

Orel George (right) – the Most Consistent Cyclist - receives his prize from President of the SVG Cycling Union- Trevor Bailey.

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24. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Community Interleague offering more money The championships will be contested in Seniors, Under 17, Under 13 and Female divisions, with all winners pocketing no less than EC$3000.00.

The winners of the Senior division will earn President Venold Coombs and Digicel’s Marketing Executive Daniella themselves Competition Chairman Elroy Boucher and Brewery EC$10,000.00, with the Cupid.

Representative, Kelvin Franklyn. runner up getting The Under 13 top Leeward, Bequia, Buccament, East EC$7,000.00, the third place team will put themselves in line to Kingstown and South East; Group B: EC$3,000.00 and the fourth place collect EC$3,000.00, the runner up Central Kingstown, South Leeward, EC$1,000.00.

EC$2,000.00, third place finisher Georgetown, North Windward, Sion The Under 17 champion will have EC$1,000.00, with the team ending Hill and Stubbs; and Group C: West EC$5,000.00 to split among fourth collecting EC$500.00.

Kingstown, Arnos Vale, Calliaqua, themselves, the losing finalists The winners of the Female division Gregg and Marriaqua.

EC$3,000.00, third place EC$1,000.00 will earn themselves EC$3,000.00, The three top teams from each zone and the fourth place finisher runner up EC$2,000.00 and third along with the best overall 4th place EC$500.00. place finisher team will qualify for the second round, EC$500.00. with the second round being two In addition to the groups of five teams. And four teams end of competition from each group will qualify for the prize monies, teams knockout stage, Boucher said in can pick up outlining the format.

Diamond United came away 4- choked Maxx Strikers, 5-1. incentives along the The SVGFF will be partnering with 1 winners. Jolanshoy Mc Responsible for Prospect’s way, based on their Mobile Telephone Provider Digicel and Dowald scored the consolation win were Ojoy Degrads with victories. Boucher the St. Vincent Brewery, through its goal for Prospect. two goals and one each from pointed out that flagship product Hairoun, in making It was a win that pleased Lezlo McKenzie, Reginald there will be an the 2015 National Community Inter Diamond United’s manager Payne and Osei Thompson. award of $100 for League a reality.

Yolande London.

Iteba Browne netted the lone each win in first While not disclosing the extent of A smiling London said that goal for Maxx Strikers. round; $150 for their sponsorship in dollars and cents, she was especially happy at the each win in second Daniella Cupid of Digicel and Kelvin achievement, as many of the Prior to last Sunday’s final, round; $200 for Franklyn of the Brewery both gave players are inexperienced.

Choppins hammered Maxx each win in their company’s commitment in “We did not expect to win Strikers seven goals to one to quarterfinal; $250 helping to make the tournament an this big, since we were coming take the third place on for a semifinal win. overwhelming success. up against an experienced team Saturday.

Boucher said Franklyn highlighted the Brewery’s ….Our team wanted it more Five goals from Doran that there are 18 long association with the sport and than ever and they went out Quashie and one each from teams taking part supporting the SVGFF to “hold your there with that attitude,” Kenroy Joseph and Esron Duke in the senior own,” while Cupid pointed to the London accounted. completed the goal spree for division and they budding extraordinary love affair London said that the team Choppins. have been placed in between soccer and Digicel across the tested its skill and readiness in Calvert Parris converted a three groups of six region. the Stubbs League last year, consolation penalty for Maxx Yolande London, manager of teams each.

The opening fixtures on Sunday at albeit with very little success, Strikers.

Diamond United, admitted He listed these the Victoria Park will see Layou but considered it good ground The presentation of prizes that her team did not think as Group A: taking on Calliaqua from 5pm, with from which to launch its entry won in the competition will they could win that big. defending South Leeward facing off against into the Calliaqua competition. take place at a later date, champions Central Kingstown from 7:30.

Before encountering Prospect according to the organisers.

THE TEN-YEAR REIGN BY Barrouallie, North in the final, Diamond GTM Prospect as undisputed United bolted past champions of the Calliaqua Choppins in the Football League, came to an semifinals. end last Sunday, February 1.

Double strikes by Upsetting the apple cart was new entrant to the competition, Kevin George and Diamond United, who together Curlan Joseph, and goals by Deomaji with their merry band of Samuel, Kendal Joseph supporters, left the Calliaqua Over 170 countries and and Jimmy Providence, IN CONTINUING ITS PREPARATIONS for this Playing Field buoyant with country’s participation in the 2015 Special approximately 7,000 saw Diamond excitement.

Olympics World Summer Games, in Los Angeles Special Olympics athletes overcoming Choppins, A hat trick from Deomaji from July 25th — August 2nd, the local Special are expected to attend seven-nil.

Samuel and one from Jimmy Olympics Committee was represented at a recent the 2015 Special In the other Providence, left the perennial Heads of Delegation Conference.

Olympics World Games. semifinals, Prospect champions for dead, as Janice McMaster, National Director of Special Special Olympics SVG Olympics SVG, represented this country at the delegation comprises conference, held in Los Angeles, California, from thirty-three individuals; January 21 to January 26.

Janice McMaster, 26 athletes, 5 coaches According to McMaster, the conference focused and 2 officials. who attended the on athletes’ registration, venues, transportation, Special Olympics The athletes will meals, Healthy Athletes programme and matters Head of Delegation compete in Aquatics, related to the media.

Conference in Los Athletics, Bocce, Football Delegates had an opportunity to visit their Angeles, said it was and Tennis. host towns; St. Vincent and the Grenadines is important that this hosted by the City of Thousand Oaks. country attended, SVG has not participated in the Games for the Special Olympics given its extended National Sports Council last ten years, and McMaster said, attending the absence from recent conference “…was very important,” adding, “We Bldg, Arnos Vale, P.O Box Games.

2955, Kingstown are taking a large number of athletes to the Games, each with particular needs; so it was Tel (784)530-5278 imperative that SVG had a first-hand view of the Fax (784)457-1764 sporting facilities and venues, accommodation www.sosvg.org Diamond United - champs of the 2014 Hairoun Beer and transportation system.”

Email info@specialolympics.org Twitter @so_svg Calliaqua Football League.

THE ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Football Federation (SVGFF) will be paying out more than fifty thousand dollars in prize monies this year, to teams taking part in the National Community Inter-league competition which kicks off this weekend.

President Venold Coombs said that the prizes show that his executive is serious about football.

“You never had all these monies being paid out to football, and the coming on board of business houses is a clear indication of the confidence they have in this executive.”

Chairman of the tournament committee, Elroy Boucher, said at a media briefing Wednesday, that teams stand to benefit a great deal more than in previous years, with monies being offered for wins at all stages.

Diamond ends Calliaqua’s reign

SVG represented at Special Olympics Conference

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 25.

Sports

Rough and smooth WORLD CUP CRICKET bowls off in one week in a low-keyed fashion. That is for West Indies fans.

People are so disillusioned with the state of affairs that they are not keen on investing any part of their soul by following the fortunes of their squad.

If the team notches up a win or two and put themselves in contention, there will be increased interest. If they stutter, people will say, ‘I told you so and that’s the reason why I don’t have time with West Indies cricket’.

We have to take the tough times with the smooth. We have to stay with the West Indies. It is a question of nationhood. We can’t be carried away with the insularity and fuel that divisive tendency.

The stage is set for the National Awards which comes off tomorrow at Spring Gardens on the south eastern coast of mainland St. Vincent. That is a splendid setting introduced last year.

There were reservations about that venue, but there was a strong belief in the facilities provided there, and the exercise proceeded in near precision and with complete satisfaction. There will be grouses, and that is something to which we will have to become accustomed.

Athletes must be rewarded. I applaud and will encourage everyone to fulfil their natural gifts.

Talent alone is no guarantee for success. Many persons with lesser ability have prospered better than those blessed with raw ability.

West Indian athletes, except for the Jamaican sprinters, those who shine with an occasional burst of magic, display a lack of mental toughness.

Quite often, they drop their guard when consistency is needed.

Viv Richards analysed what was going on around him. We might be subtle about it, but there is an extent of racism that pervades sporting endeavours. Tribalism ought not to be tolerated neither in sports or any sphere, but persons have the right to assert their dignity in any situation.

It is obvious that a coat of racial prejudice has crept into sport. We hope that a balance would be develop in time, across the sporting register.

Sporting authorities are trying to clamp down on racism in the games. But the rules will have to foster more genuine efforts at equality for the scourge of discrimination to the erased.

Athletes and administrators will have to get rid of the lingering human instinct of self-centredness that is often too common.

My attention was drawn to the practice by some persons to jump on the band wagon. The fast food syndrome has influenced our style of operation.

We must put structures in place to capture the talent of our youngsters, especially when they progress to the Community College. A nursery of athletes ought to be available from which our future teams are based.

At this moment, the squad to take part in the World Cup qualifiers in June against Guyana should have been in intense training. They have the Windwards Tournament before Guyana. We faltered last year in that competition and were eclipsed by St. Lucia.

Players must be fit and ready, and there must be depth on the bench.

Self-belief must be our foundation and we must plan ahead. There ought not to be a scramble when we are faced with opportunities to progress.

Of course, things must be taken in stride, but contingency plans have to be part of the process.

The Football Federation must spearhead arrangements. Football is big business. Sport has the potential to be a major industry in nations like St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We have to be alert to make use of the opportunities.

Combined Youths (left) and Teams Rivals pay their respects to their fallen colleague, Ortis Jack.

Pope dedicates century to fallen coach And Team Rivals put in another impressive display to “I DEDICATE my century to my warn pretenders to their crown Oneil Endeavour (left) received a former coach and manager,Ortis that it will not be easy for the painful blow to the forearm.

Jack.” taking, as they flattened the up These were the words of SVG and coming Combined Youths by went within a ball of each other opener Gidron Pope, after hitting 88 runs. as Team Rivals lost four for eight an unbeaten century to spur his The two teams had begun in two overs, with Left-armer team Radcliffe to a 43-run victory proceedings by engaging in a over Victors TWO, in the Neil minute’s silence for the passing of Nickie Antoine being a denied a hat trick when a sitter was put Williams National T20 Jack. down on the long off boundary. competition on the weekend, at Team Rivals, behind an Combined Youths were given a the main Arnos Vale Playing imperious 85 from Casmond fiery baptism by pacey Kesrick Field.

Walters, another high class half Willaims with the loquacious Jack, who was Pope’s coach at century from Hyron Shallow, the Under15 level and a senior gallivanted their way to 197/6 off Oneil Endeavour being the main target and suffering a painful manager up to the time of his their 20 overs, after a slow start. blow to the forearm. death, held the post as U15, U19 The pair added 142 for the But after taking their foot off and Women’s coach over the second wicket after the early loss years. He succumbed to cancer of Marvin Small (4) with the total the pedal, Team Rivals were still able to get home by some distance while undergoing treatment in the on nine.

USA last Tuesday. He was 46 Walters hammered seven sixes, as Combined Youths ended on years old. included four off successive balls 98/3 in their 20 overs, with the talented Elton Joseph (40) being Pope said that his association from legspinner Marlon Farrell with Jack was a good one as he ,who took the peculiar decision to the most assured. always encouraged him to try to run between the improve his game. umpire and the “He was like a father to stump. He also me…helping me to be a better struck four person and to try and work on my fours while game. He would tell me to try Shallow (56) and bat long, to let the bowlers counted seven work for my wicket and to fours, many of practise hard.” them Pope made 104 in pushing exquisitely Radcliffe to 175/2 in their 20 dispatched to overs. He enjoyed a partnership the cover of 87 with Romano Pierre (29) for boundary.

Ortis Jack (2nd from right) in the midst of a light the first wicket, and added a They both hearted moment with his cricketing colleagues. further 86 with captain Lindon James (28) for the second wicket.

He had one life when he was put down on 91 at cover off pacer The SVG Table Tennis 1970s and early 1980s.

Dawnley Grant. He struck seven Association (SVGTTA) mourns She is also remembered for fours and seven sixes, with his the passing of one of its former teaming with national players penchant for the legside in full National Female Players, Vanda like David ‘Sky’ Llewellyn and evidence. Pope also showed good Anita Providence- Pype.

Elliot Charles, to comprise presence of mind to turn the formidable mixed doubles teams Anita, as she was known to strike over by counting 21 singles the TT fraternity and family and that performed creditably both in his innings. friends throughout St. Vincent locally and regionally.

Victors TWO retain some pride The Association is saddened and the Grenadines, died by batting out their 20 overs suddenly on January 22nd, 2015, by her loss, and extends finishing 132/6, with Kirton Lavia at her home in Sion Hill. condolences to her family.

38 being the topscore, as She won the National Female She would be laid to rest on Westwick Strough 3/30 led the Singles Title on several occasions the 12th February, 2015. bowling. and represented SVG during the

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

TT mourns passing of former champion

V

26. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

Bigger Biggs Lynching and the UN-IDPAD

“I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe”.

Much like the murder of Eric Garner and Mike Brown, the heartless attack against Bigger

by LUZETTE KING, Host Global was a growing one, worth more further, “while there is less being suggested would be ultra Biggs, his workforce and their Highlights than $11million, and had over overt racism in Caribbean vires the Act.” families is symbolic of the days 60 workers which included an countries, indirect Guided by historical of slavery when in the eyes of ON FEBRUARY 11, 2011, Leon executive team of nearly all discrimination remains a accounts, Bigger Biggs is but the slave masters, Africans Samuel aka Bigger Bigs was young, black women. problem, in addition to strong two generations from slavery: were seen as of the lowest lynched, economically.

This gazetted attack points structural paradigms that his grandfather, Harold Samuel, ranking of the animal kingdom.

With the start of the 2015 directly to the cabinet (executive exacerbate inequality between was the son of a slave. Hence, They were also met with Black History Month arm) of the Ralph Gonsalves-led the races.” his plight and that of others in commensurate treatment and a (February), the ongoing mission Unity Labour Party The ‘Bigger Biggs’ atrocity the African diaspora is evident prime example of this of CARICOM to seek administration. While in the has been highlighted through in the theme for this UNcomparable treatment in SVG reparations for crimes preamble of that Order, much various acts of protest, IDPAD, which is, “People of today, is David Ames. He own committed by Europeans ado is made of the findings of newspaper writings, radio African Descent: Recognition, businesses that are evidently against the ancestors of people the Physical Planning and discussions, social media blogs Justice and Development”, and environmental hazards but are of African descent in the Development Board, there is no and of most significance a press the main objective of this not regulated in the same way. western hemisphere and the mention as to whether the conference on November 12, International Decade, is to More to the point, though, December 10, 2014 launching of Board recommends the closure 2014 with a panel of some of the promote respect, protection and the Bigger Biggs story is United Nations International of this business and the most prestigious in their fulfillment of all human rights indicative of the need for Decade For People of African decommissioning of its crushing respective fields: Marlon Mills, and fundamental freedoms for CARICOM nationals and in Descent (UN-IDPAD) between plant. With the support of his Environmental Management people of African descent as particular Vincentians, to take 2015-24, it is quite fitting to technical team, well-wishers Consultant; Philmore Isaacs, recognized in the Universal more seriously the call for highlight Bigger Bigs’ and sympathizers, Bigger Biggs retired Chief Agriculture Declaration of Human Rights.

African reparations, IACHR predicament. Noteworthy also has been able to prove that that Officer; Glenford Stewart, Civil Implicitly, therefore, such a report and the theme and is the fact that we are one week SR&O No: 2 of 2011 is simply Engineer and Managing declaration coming from the objectives of the UN-IDPAD. In away from the fourth bogus and that he was singled Director at Stewart Engineering United Nations indicates that fact, this 2015 Black History anniversary. out for this treatment.

Ltd; Clive ‘Bish-I’ Bishop, even after 200 years and more month provides an opportunity Without due process as Given the subtle but direct Agricultural Development that slavery was abolished and for national focus on these provided in our constitution and attack against this young Specialist and Soil Specialist. the slaves were subsequently issues. specifically under The Town and businessman of African descent, As a result, Prime Minister emancipated in the western And whereas “high regard Country Planning Act, the his workforce and their families Gonsalves, who often boasts his hemisphere, a major issue is and commendation” to Prime Rabacca-based business, Bigger and the yet-unclear motive, one Portuguese inheritance, now that of disregard for and actual Minister Gonsalves are Trucking and Blocks can argue it resonates the claims to have been wrongly denial of the fundamental rights recorded in Hansard “for his Construction Company Ltd, was finding in the 2012 Inter advised, and has since revoked and freedoms of people of commitment to, and closed by Order of the now American Commission on SR&O No: 2 of 2011. He African descent. The tragic determination, in initiating the famous SR&O No: 2 of 2011. In Human Rights (IACHR) report: cannot, however, be exonerated circumstances in the United reparations conversation at the that Order (Saint Vincent and The Situation Of People Of when the findings of legal States involving Mike Brown of highest level of regional the Grenadines Statutory Rules African Descent In The expert, Queen’s Counsel Stanley Ferguson, Missouri, and Eric governmental authority and for and Order, 2011 No. 2 Gazetted Americas. This finding, which John is that: “…in the course of Garner of New York are stark pushing forward the fight on 11th February, 2011), which was also presented to the review of the provisions of reminders. Brown was against European Conquest, is also cited as Protection of CARICOM Heads of state at the Act, there is no role for unarmed and at a distance of Genocide, the Trans Atlantic Environment (Rabacca) Order their 33rd meeting (July 2012), Cabinet to review or approve some 145 feet away from the Slave Trade and Slavery, 2011, ‘Bigger Biggs’ license to is that where the populations decisions of the Board which are police who shot and killed him Colonialism and for sand mine was ordered revoked tend to have majority of African made in relation to applications on August 9, 2014. Garner was reparations”, we can expect no and his crushing plant Descendant populations, the for development under the Act. choked to death by police who less than a special decommissioned, summarily. At issue of race is more complex Accordingly, any usurpation of held him in a chokehold on July parliamentary session on the the time, Bigger Bigs business and more subtle. It states such a function by Cabinet as is 17, 2014, even as he was crying, UN-IDPAD.

The tragedy of tragedies in St. Vincent and the Grenadines...Let there be no repeat I HATE TO SAY IT, but prior to 2002, I predicted that a tragic accident involving a passenger carrying van would occur.

That was my reason for writing the article (clip attached) in the Searchlight in May 2002. During a visit to the country of my birth that year, I observed that there was a lot to be desired of the driving habits in the beautiful mountainous Island of St. Vincent.

You are preparing to invite the wider international community to visit the country by the imminent commissioning of the International airport, and there is already a vibrant cruise ship sector of the tourist industry In St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Many tourists save money for many years to attend one and only one cruise in their entire lives. St. Vincent and the Grenadines would be one of the intermediate destinations they would be visiting, and as such they would like to feel safe when visiting the Islands. There are also visiting businessmen who frequent the nation.

Many people prefer to use public transport whenever they visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines. They prefer to be infused with the community because the citizens are very friendly.

It is a very good thing that public transportation is privately owned in the country because it provides employment opportunities for many citizens, with

minimal interference by the state. That interference is in the form of licensing the vans (called maxi-taxis in Trinidad and Tobago).

In my article on the subject in May 2002, I made mention of the displacement of the centers of gravity when temporary seats are placed in the aisles of the vehicles, and the ill effects of that practice. The transportation system is very reliable when it comes to taking passengers to and from their various destinations. However, when it comes to comfort and safety during the trips, passengers are disenfranchised because of the way they are packed like sardines in the ‘vans’. I like the idea that there is a conductor in every van. It is not an absolute requirement in Trinidad and Tobago. There are however some negative attributes to the system that must be corrected. During one of my visits to the Island, I was traveling to Georgetown. I had to let the driver know that he was driving dangerously. A female passenger (about middle age) said that they liked the fast driving. She went on to add that they don’t want to travel in slow driving vehicles. The driver’s response to me was that I should disembark from the vehicle if I did not like the way he was driving. I did disembark. I would like to impress on the local authorities the

gravity of the situation that has permeated the public transport system.

It must be corrected as soon as possible.

Some of the factors to be addressed include: 1. The number of passengers for which vans must be licensed must be commensurate with the number of passengers for which the vehicles were designed to carry. Those that are now licensed to carry eighteen to twenty-one (or more) passengers were designed to carry not more than about 13(the small ones). In order to accommodate 18 — 20 passengers, some of them are made to sit almost sideways on one buttock.

2. If the Manufacturers did not install seats in the aisles, no temporary stool should be placed there. The passengers and temporary stools become projectiles in the event of the application of sudden braking or collisions.

3. In my article of May 2002, I made mention of the fares. The low fares may be encouraging drivers to ‘hustle’, especially during peak hours. It would be better to increase fares along with the reduction of the number of passengers the vans should carry.

4. The state must urgently embark on educating drivers, passengers and other citizens via the various media to enable the dismantling of the negative cultural attitudes relating to the behavior of van

drivers, conductors and many passengers.

5. One of the seats in the vans should be allocated to the conductor. The practice is: when a van is over-filled to excess capacity (technically), the conductor squeezes himself into the van by the door. His person virtually rests on the adjacent passengers in a most embarrassing manner.

6. The local tourist organization of the government (and also private ones) should introduce certification progammes for drivers and conductors in methods that would encourage visitors to sell the country as a tourist destination as far as the public transportation system is concerned.

7. The packing of passengers is not only unsafe as has happened in the tragedy. It is also a health hazard to passengers.

It is my hope that the authorities concerned act with dispatch to arrest the situation, so that passengers would be comfortable during their journey.

Condolences to aggrieved persons and to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

I would be happy to lend some assistance in this regard.

Carl Darwin Cupid, B. Eng, MSAE, R. Eng. (T & T).

Accident Reconstruction Specialist

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2015. 27.

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House recognises Horne KENVILLE HORNE, a staff reporter with THE VINCENTIAN newspaper, came in for praise from members of this country’s parliament.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves paid tribute to the journalist during last Tuesday’s wrapping up of the 2015 Budget debate.

Gonsalves made it plain that no government agency was involved in the process, and mentioned that he did not know about the award.

Representative for North

Leeward, Roland Matthews, commended Horne on his accomplishment when he addressed the House on Monday.

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Saboto Caesar joined in the congratulatory remarks.

During a preface to his contribution to the Budget, he extended kudos to Horne, and described him as a close confidant.

Horne was selected among 60 persons from the Commonwealth to receive an

award in the inaugural year (2014) of the Queen’s Young Leaders Programme.

His recognition came as a result of his work with young persons in Rose Hall.

He will be in London, England, between June 21 and 27 this year, during which time he will receive his award at Buckingham Place. (WKA) Kenville Horne at a Christmas Party he hosted for young persons involved in the programme he started in Rose Hall.

SENATOR LEWIS THROWN OUT OF THE HOUSE

by KENVILLE HORNE

on Tuesday, by House Speaker Hendrick Alexander, after he told Prime Minister OPPOSITION NDP SENATOR Linton Lewis Dr. Ralph Gonsalves that he was lying was thrown out of the House of Assembly during the PM’s Budget rap up.

Cross talk ensued between the Opposition Senator and the Prime Minister after Dr. Gonsalves suggested to Senator Lewis that he read.

The Senator took offense and asked the Prime Minister if it was he alone who read.

The cross talk continued, and it was during the heated exchange that Lewis accused the Prime Minister of lying.

The Opposition Senator’s accusation did not hold well with Alexander, who deemed the statement as “unparliamentary,” and asked Lewis to leave the House, without being warned.

But Lewis contended that the statement had been used in the House before by the ULP members, and he singled out Minister of State, Julian Francis, in this regard.

“Julian Francis has been saying all the time that people are lying”, said Lewis to a subsequent interview with THE VINCENTIAN.

No respect for the Speaker Senator Linton Lewis (standing) exchanged cross talk with the Prime Minister, and got the worse end of the Speaker’s stick.

Lewis made it clear to THE VINCENTIAN that he has no respect for the Speaker.

“I don’t expect anything better from

the Speaker. I am from the same area that he is from, and I don’t expect anything better from him. I would have been very surprised if he had done something good in the House,” said Lewis, who is expected to contest the East St.George seat against ULP’s Camilo Gonsalves, son of the Prime Minister.

“I have absolutely no respect for the Speaker, and I never had any for him; but by virtue of his position, I am supposed to accord him respect because of the rules of the House. I would have been presently surprised if the Speaker did something for me to respect him outside of the House”, Lewis told THE VINCENTIAN. Semator Lewis claimed that the Speaker “is stretching his power too far. If I say to you that you are not speaking the truth, then am I saying you are lying? Suppose I shouted across to him (Gonsalves), ‘you are not speaking the truth’, is the same as saying you are lying,” said the Senator, who is also a lawyer.

Regarding the Prime Minister’s comment about reading, the Senator admitted that he took offense and did ask the Prime Minister if it was he alone who read.

“I think to my mind that he was totally improper, and I asked him if he thinks he alone reading. Other persons read too. How can he say

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

Hendrick Alexander, Speaker of the House, not for the first time, found himself having to ask an Opposition Member to leave a Sitting of the House. whatever he feels like in Parliament and get away with it, and no one else can?” Lewis queried.

Senator Lewis’ opposition colleagues, in a show of solidarity with him, left the House at the same time the senator did.

Attempts to contact the Speaker of the House for a comment proved futile.

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