Vin pages 05 06 15 e reader to use

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Special offer, Live Streams, Movies and Live Radio, all in one box.

PRICE:

$390.00.

Recommended internet speed 10megs.

Call Express Data Systems Limited at 784-456-1128 for more info.

FRIDAY,

JUNE 05, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.23

www.thevincentian.com

GARIFUNA TO BECOME HONORARY CITIZENS OF SVG, SAYS EUSTACE

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

OPPOSITION LEADER Arnhim Eustace says, if his New Democratic Party (NDP) wins the next general elections in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, his administration would honour the Garifuna people by making them honorary citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“I want to bring them closer to St.

Vincent and the Grenadines,” said Eustace, last Sunday night at a town hall meeting in Brooklyn, New York, flanked by Member of Parliament for North Leeward, Roland “Patel” Matthews, and former Communications and Works Minister in a former NDP administration, Glenford Stewart.

“There are those who say it can’t be done, but it will be done,” he added, to loud applause, with some Garifuna in the audience. “I have naysayers who say ‘it’ll be a drain on the economy.’

EC$1.50

Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace addressing town hall meeting.

There’s a saying, ‘where ignorance is bliss, it’s folly York, Eustace said he had met with a to be wise’.

“I must say, they’ll (Garifuna) make number of Garifuna, descendants of Black Caribs from St. Vincent and the the most marvellous contribution to Grenadines, and “got an St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” continued the NDP president. “There’s understanding of what took place” (leading up to and during their exile no way they can pull us down; they’ll by the British on Balliceaux — a rocky pull us up. island in the St. Vincent Grenadines, “Tonight, I say to the Garifuna, and Roatan, an island off Honduras, welcome home,” Eustace declared.

“We’ve stated our position tonight, and some 218 years ago. we’ll stand by it.”

Continued on Page 3.

During his week-long visit to New

PM SAYS NO TO HONORARY CITIZENSHIP Arnhim Eustace, to extend honorary citizenship of St PRIME MINISTER DR Vincent and the Grenadines, RALPH GONSALVES says to Garifuna people not born that he does not support the here. proposal put forward by Gonsalves made the Leader of the Opposition, comment on Tuesday during a press briefing, saying that the Left: Prime Minister Dr. Ralph only thing that he knew as Gonsalves has taken umbrage honorary citizenship resembled a law the New with Opposition Leader Democratic Party (NDP) Arnhim Eustace’s offer of passed back in 1996, which honorary citizenship to was then referred to as Garifuna.

by DAYLE DA SILVA

economic citizenship.

“We brought it to an end in 2001,” the Prime Minister said.

The proposal advanced by Eustace, according to Gonsalves, raised a number of questions.

For example, would the honorary citizens have a right to permanent residence and the right to work?

“I want the people in East

Kingstown to hear this.

When you give honorary citizenship, they coming out from Belize, from Nicaragua, from Honduras, from Guatemala, they are coming out from those countries for jobs in St Vincent?

“They are coming for your houses, I want to know what this involves,” he added.

Continued on Page 3.

V

2. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Arts

Digicel staff members have been making the karaoke rounds, ensuring that participants and patrons are treated to giveaways.

Digicel powers local karaoke THE DIGICEL THIRD EYE Vincy Voice Karaoke Competition continues to draw patrons from across the length and breadth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, since its launch in March this year.

Each of the 3 zones, of the 8 into which the

competition is divided, has had overwhelming participation in their preliminary rounds.

Zone 1, which included karaoke houses from the areas of Chapmans, Sandy Bay, Colonarie and Byrea, saw 17 qualified competitors in its

preliminary, held on April 18th, 2015.

Zone 2, with participants from Calder, Adelphi, Richland Park, Montaque, Greiggs, Biabou and Mespotamia, saw 21 qualified competitors in the preliminary held on May 9th, 2015.

Karaoke houses within the areas of Calliaqua, Brighton, Arnos Vale, Roseau and Villa, categorised as Zone 3, also featured 21 competitors in its preliminary, held on 29th May, at Trotties in Arnos Vale.

Danielle Cupid, Marketing Executive of Digicel St. Vincent & The Grenadines, pledged the company’s full support for this creative pastime.

“We are pleased that the following for this competition continues to grow… and it continues to show the diversification of our reach. Karaoke is a very popular pastime for Vincentians, and we anticipate a much larger following by the finals of the competition,” she said.

Zone 4 preliminaries are scheduled to begin shortly within the areas of Sion Hill and Kingstown.

Songbird launches solo career

by GLORIAH… JANELLE MELISSA THOMAS, a vibrant member of the gospelsinging group ‘Called Out’, will now also be known as a solo gospel act. In an extremely inspirational presentation called ‘Overflow: The Worship Experience’, held at the Hill Top Tabernacle on Friday, 15th May, the songbird delivered a performance in which she indulged her audience with versatility and finesse.

According to Janelle, she began singing at the age of eight, and became the local National Mass Choir’s youngest member when she joined at fourteen years old. With such an open avenue for vocal expression, she went on to become a member of several other singing groups: Voices of Victory Gospel Band, Cantemus and Called Out. Janelle, a Christian, views singing as a ministry. It has taken her throughout the length and breadth of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and to Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados.

She has also seized opportunities to do background vocals for international artistes like Zina Edwards, Lieutenant Stitchie, Atta Boafo, Tasha Cobbs and Marvia Providence.

On the local scene, she has sung alongside Kiokya Cruickshank, Ronnie Richardson, Stacey Lyttle

Janelle Melissa Thomas heads for a solo career, having impressed with performances with a number of groups. and Fenton Harry-John.

While singing is Janelle’s forte, she also has other achievements on her sleeve. She is a teacher at the Bishop’s College Kingstown. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Tourism Management, and is also a Certified Event Manager and make-up artist, who styles hair in her spare time. Janelle is also known for her engagements as the ‘Wedding and Events Singer in SVG’.

With this new journey, i.e. as a solo gospel artiste, Janelle promises enthusiasts a new explosion of music that will inspire and remain in their thoughts for a long time to come, many of these pieces being composed by Janelle herself.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 3.

News 3

Vincentian among smugglers nabbed in marijuana bust

by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT THE UNITED STATES Coast Guard says a Vincentian was among 12 Caribbean smugglers busted in a major marijuana interdiction in the Caribbean Sea. The US Coast Guard said last Friday that it, along with the Royal Netherlands Navy and US law enforcement partner agencies, seized 13,000 pounds of marijuana, a cargo freighter, and apprehended the 12 Caribbean smugglers, during an at-sea interdiction.

The US Coast Guard said the drug shipment is estimated to have a wholesale value of more than US$13 million.

Six Jamaicans, five Guyanese and the unidentified Vincentian male crew are to be prosecuted for drug smuggling by the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, the US Coast Guard said.

It said the interdiction was a result of Operation Caribbean Venture, an international operation led by the Commander Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean.

US Coast Guard and US Navy units assigned to Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-South) and the Seventh Coast Guard District participate in this operation, often alongside Dutch Navy and Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard assets.

During the morning of May 13, the US Coast Guard said the Royal Netherlands Navy HNLMS Zeeland offshore patrol vessel, carrying a US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) onboard, approached and interdicted the cargo freighter ‘Caribbean Soul’ during a routine patrol in the Caribbean Sea, about 150 nautical miles south of Les Cayes, Haiti.

When approached, the ‘Caribbean Soul’ came to a full

stop as the crew claimed the continue to yield very positive freighter to be a US flagged results in the interdiction of vessel that was experiencing major drug shipments at sea, steering problems onboard. as well as in bringing those The ‘Caribbean Soul’ was responsible to justice,” said deemed to be stateless after it Capt. Robert Warren, Coast was revealed that the freighter Guard Sector San Juan was no longer a registered commanding officer. vessel in the United States, “Interceptions like these the US Coast Guard said. show us that it is very It said the Coast Guard important for us partners to LEDET proceeded to board the keep working together and ‘Caribbean Soul’ and in the sharing information,” said process located multiple bales Commodore Hans Lodder, of suspected contraband that Royal Dutch Navy and JIATFwere field tested and revealed South Commander of Task to be marijuana.

Group 4.4.

In total, 247 bales of marijuana were seized Right: The 13,000 weighing about 13,000 pounds, pounds of marijuana the Coast Guard said. found on board the The Coast Guard LEDET ‘Caribbean Soul’. detained the crew of the ‘Caribbean Soul’ aboard the vessel, which was escorted by the HNLMS Zeeland to the Port of Ponce, Puerto Rico.

The HNLMS Zeeland transferred Continued from the cargo freighter, meeting — thanked Eustace for his gesture the detainees and the Frontpage. towards the Garifuna, and marijuana shipment “Five hundred people recommended that to awaiting US Drug who left Balliceaux 218 Balliceaux be declared a Enforcement years later, now number “National Shrine.”

Administration 700,000. But they’re from Eustace agreed, adding special agents, St. Vincent and the that he had already Customs and Border communicated that Protection officers, US Grenadines, having gone to Honduras, gone to suggestion to the group of Marshals in Ponce, Belize and so forth, and Garifuna with whom he Puerto Rico the 400,000 here (in the met in New York. morning of May 17, United States), Eustace “Your announcement is the Coast Guard said, adding, “I believe most welcome,” Belizean said. this is a remarkable Joseph Guerrero, who It said the US story… It’s a remarkable spoke on behalf of the Drug Enforcement story because many of Garifuna people, told Administration is them are professionals in Eustace in the questionleading the and-answer segment. investigation into this different parts of the world.”

“And, on behalf of the case.

Douglas Howard — an Garifuna people “Our strong NDP activist and former worldwide, thank you.” international president of the St. Wellington Ramos, who partnerships and Vincent and the was also part of the continued Grenadines Progressive Garifuna delegation, and collaboration with the Organization of New York who also hails from Belize, Dutch Navy and (SPOONY), the NDP New said he found Eustace to regional law York affiliate that be “a very sincere person” enforcement partners sponsored the town hall in their deliberations.

Garifuna to become honorary citizens of SVG, says Eustace

PM says no to honorary citizenship a piece of paper declaring them honorary citizen?” he The Prime Minister questioned. reiterated that the only thing he There were far more had that gave some Garifuna, who are not understanding of what the Vincentian, living outside than opposition leader meant was the people living in St Vincent what the previous NDP and the Grenadines on a whole, administration called honorary Gonsalves argued. citizenship, when money was “So you don’t want freedom of paid. movement for people from “The law was you had to Jamaica, and Guyana. You US$55,000, the candidate, and hear them talking about too then pay US$5,000… cheap many Jamaicans and Guyanese compared to what St Kitts is with whom we are in a trading doing,” Gonsalves said. relationship;but you want them “What are they going to have, from Nicaragua, and Continued from Frontpage.

Guatemala, and Honduras?”

The Prime Minister affirmed his support for forging and sustaining historical and cultural ties with Garifuana, and suggested that if there are Garifuna living overseas who are the descendant of Garifuna here, then they can obtain citizenship by descent.

Right: Garifuna, the world over, consider St. Vincent and the Grenadines their ancestral homeland.

Garifuna members stand after Eustace announced he’ll make them “Honorary Citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.”

“I want to say, if somebody can’t give you something in 14 years, why you have to wait another hour,” asked Ramos, an adjunct lecturer in politics at the Brooklyn campus of Long Island University and a

newspaper columnist, stating that the Garifuna had been waiting indefinitely to become “Honorary Citizens” of their motherland, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

V

4. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Crime

‘Investigate the watchmen,’ say businessmen

by HAYDN HUGGINS BUSINESS OWNERS and operators at the Leeward Bus Terminal in Kingstown, are calling on the relevant authorities to investigate the watchmen employed there.

For some time now, persons who own and operate bars, shops and other outlets at the Leeward Bus Terminal, have been complaining of the constant burglarizing of their business houses.

As recent as Tuesday, Cornelius ‘Roger’ Roberts told THE VINCENTIAN that his bar was broken into for the eleventh time, eight times last year and three time this year.

He said he had secured his business and left for home around 6:30 p.m. on Monday. When he returned to the area around 6:10 am the following day, he

Bar and restaurant owner Ras I thinks the watchmen should be investigated and not paid.

discovered that his outlet was broken into and emptied.

According to Roberts, a quantity of drinks and cigarettes valued at about EC$1,000, and $30 in coins were stolen, in addition to his stereo set which he had bought for EC$700. Entry was made by removing the hinges from a door to the side of the building, and cutting open the burglar bars.

“I lose everything. Is eleven time now they break my place, and Town Board have watchmen here every night,” Roberts said, adding, “Me can’t pay Town Board, my water cut off, I can’t pay my liquor licence because everything I buy here, people steal it.”

He noted that on each occasion, his place of business was burgalarised, he made a report to the police.

Someone was charged, convicted and sent to prison for one of the incidents, but as far as he is aware, the others are still unsolved.

While the business proprietors at the Terminal are not pointing fingers at anyone, they find it strange that so many burglaries have been committed, while watchmen are being paid by the Kingstown Board to secure the area from 6 pm to 6 am daily.

Bar and restaurant owner Alphanzo ‘Fisher’

Woman on cocaine charge

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Boyce, who said his business was The shop operated by Cornelius burglarized ‘Roger’ Roberts was the most four times in recent target for burglars, the 11th the space of time it has been broken into. about two months, expressed the view that, Terminal was officially “It would take more than opened some ten years ago, watchmen and 20 or 25 minutes to police used to ensure break into one of these that the businesses there business places and remove all these things, were secure and the area and you have watchmen was safe. “But now is in the area. They need to fools’ paradise,” she opined. investigate the She also complained watchmen, you can’t be that her business was watching an area from 6pm to 6am and between broken into three times, once in 2006 and twice in those hours, business 2010, but on the first places there are being burglarized without your occasion, someone in the area had alerted the seeing.” police, and the culprit One bar was caught in the owner/operator, who gave his name as ‘Ras-I’, building.

Up to press time said his business was Wednesday, the report of also burglarized on a the recent burglary at number of occasions.

“These watchmen need Roberts’ bar, as well as a report of an attempted to be investigated, and they should not be paid, robbery at the business place of Rudolf ‘Iron Tuff’ because it seems as Foster, were under though is the thieves watching the watchmen,” investigation, according to newly appointed head he quipped. of the Criminal A female shop Investigation owner/operator, whose Department (CID) business borders with Superintendent Ruth the terminal, and who Jacobs. preferred not to be Jacobs said that since identified by name, said, her recent appointment, “When I hear they say watchmen does day down there was no influx of reports from that area, here, I want to know when the watchmen does but she assured that, once there is a report, it come and when the would be investigated. watchmen does go.”

Speaking with THE The woman said that VINCENTIAN last week, when the Leeward Bus

Shop operator, Alphanzo ‘Fisher’ Boyce, also a victim of burglaries, called for the authorities to investigate the watchmen.

Warden of the Kingstown Board Carl Williams explained that watchmen are employed to protect the terminal and the facilities there from being vandalised. He admitted that, once there are shops in the terminal, the watchmen have a duty to ensure that nobody interferes with those businesses.

He, however, denied knowledge of constant burglaries in that area.

But the business owners/operators told THE VINCENTIAN they have made several reports to the Kingstown Board over a period of time.

The Kingstown Board is responsible for the Windward and Leeward Bus terminals.

Questions surround manÊs death to Austin’s home, he discovered the man lying on a piece of ply board and RELATIVES of the late Joseph Austin bleeding from his head.

Bailey say that they cannot determine He (cousin) contacted his mother, if he was a victim of an aggravated Bertram said, and she instructed him robbery and assault, but there are to call the police, which he did, and some questions which remain Austin was taken to receive medical unanswered. attention.

Bailey died at the Milton Cato Bertram said that when he visited Memorial Hospital (MCMH) on May his brother at the MCMH, he was not 20, three days after he was discovered responding. at his home in Sayers, in the “He didn’t know nobody. I called Marriaqua Valley, on May 17. him, he couldn’t answer; his left arm Bertram Bailey, brother of the and left leg was not moving and he deceased, told THE VINCENTIAN was tossing his head,” Bertram said. that his 73-year-old brother was He reiterated the point that he was discovered by a cousin, sometime after not certain if his brother had been 4:30 p.m. beaten, and no autopsy was done to Austin, originally from Dorsetshire ascertain the cause of death.

Hill, had requested that his cousin However, there are a few things come to see him. When he (cousin) got which warranted the authorities’

BY DAYLE DA SILVA

attention, Bertram said.

He said that he returned to his brother’s home the day after he was admitted to the hospital, in search of identification cards and other items.

“First we found no money in his shed – we found no money, no phone, no watch and what we heard from people is that he had those things,” Bertram said.

Relatives say that there was evidence that he was hit in his left eye and his lip was cut.

A few persons said that they had seen Austin at the bank. However, Bertram said that he was not sure of the nature of the transaction.

Information reaching relatives indicate that Austin’s home was broken into on three occasions.

A 24-YEAR-OLD Green Hill woman was this week released on $140,000 bail with two sureties, when she appeared at the Serious Offences Court charged with cocaine possession.

Kyasha Straker, a domestic, has been charged with possession of 4,232 grams of cocaine, with intent to supply.

The allegation stems from a police action at Straker’s Green Hill home last Saturday, May 30.

The woman pleaded not guilty when she appeared before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias Tuesday 2nd June.

Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche did not object to bail, but requested suitable sureties, and Straker was granted bail with reporting conditions, and ordered to surrender her travel documents. She is also not to leave the state without the expressed permission of the Serious Offences Court or a Court of a higher jurisdiction, and stop orders would be placed at all ports of entry and exit throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

She will return to Court on July 20.

Attorney Grant Connell appeared on her behalf.

Bertram said that he was told that individuals took items including two generators and a chainsaw.

Austin returned from the United States, Austin Bailey lived where he resided alone in Sayers, for about 20 where his home had been broken years, about a into on at least week before the three occasions. incident, his brother told THE VINCENTIAN. “I never got the chance to talk to him. I am heartbroken, but there is nothing I can do,” Bertram lamented.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 5.

Regional

CLICO directors to be repaid: Depositors still in limbo ACCORDING TO THE TRINIDAD EXPRESS of May 30, 2015, some $48.5 million have been allocated to pay ten former directors of CLICO, now that CLICO is liquid again.

All of this should be of interest to CLICO investors from all over the Caribbean, many of whom had invested their lifesavings in the company that went bust in 2009.

After the company ran into cash-flow problems in

2009, CLICO fell under the purview of the Central Bank, according to the Section 44D of the Central Bank Act, and the then Peoples National Movement government, led by Patrick Manning, moved to ‘bailout’ the company that had, by this time, grown into a giant among insurance companies in the region.

In announcing the ‘bailout’, then Minister of Finance, Karen Nunez-

Tesheira, told the Trinidad and Tobago Parliament in March 2009, inter alia, that the “bailout, by government, was a guarantee to thirdparty depositors; to the third-party pensioners; and the third-party policyholders of CLICO and British American.”: It was, according to the Minister “a guarantee that their life savings and their pensions were safeguarded….. If there

was no guarantee, these people would have gotten nothing.”

Third party depositors, according to the Minister, did not include those described as ‘related parties’, i.e. CLICO Investment Bank Ltd. (CIB) directors; CIB senior managers or their spouses; directors and senior managers of CLICO and their spouses.

As it stands now, persons on the streets in

Record visitor arrivals for Barbados WHILE TOURISM OFFICIALS here are yet to release figures for visitor arrivals for the year, neighbouring Barbados, supposedly going through one of its most challenging economic periods since attaining independence in 1966, has announced record arrivals.

Chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing, Inc (BTMI), Alvin Jemmott, announced late last week, that Barbados had achieved a record 171,471 long stay visitor arrivals during the first quarter of this year, breaking a longstanding 25-year figure.

“This was a very strong winter season. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has predicted a five per cent increase in long stay arrivals for the region for the entire year, and we believe our performance in this first quarter bodes well for us to comfortably exceed that target,” Jemmott said.

According to figures released, Barbados enjoyed record arrivals in each of the first three months of 2015. This was

attributed to a number of factors, including increased airlift capacity negotiated by the BTMI; healthy economic conditions in key markets; a commitment to developing new source markets; Barbados’ strong reputation among its global partners; and the agency’s (BTMI) solid promotional strategies for reaching the travel trade, media and consumers in each market.

According to the figures released by the BTMI, arrivals from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Latin America grew by 12.9 per cent, 27.7 per cent, 28.4 per cent and 10.6 per cent, respectively.

The figures also showed that arrivals from Germany grew by 23.6 per cent.

While the cruise sector declined by 6.1 per cent to 217,139 passengers, there was a welcome increase in home porting, resulting in ships purchasing goods and services from local dairy, retail and other suppliers.

There is also a trend

Cruise ship visitors may have been down, but cruise lines bought much more supplies in Barbados.

being observed with smaller ships being replaced by larger vessels, some with the capacity to carry over 4,000 passengers. (CMC)

Right: Alvin Jemmott, Chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing, Inc (BTMI) was obviously pleased to announce the record arrivals. (Photo: www.barbadostoday.bb)

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, are wondering, like other CLICOaffected persons across the region, Karen Nunez-Tesheira, Minister whether there has of Finance, Trinidad and been a reneging on Tobago in 2009, moved to the conditions of assure depositors that their the bailout. investments were safe. (Photo: While earlier Guardian) news indicated that a total sum of $950 million was allocated to pay 1,500 policyholders who were entitled to it now that the company has turned around, the explanation is that payment to related parties was also included in that allocation.

The Trinidad and Tobago government’s ‘bailout’ of CLICO is said to have amounted in real terms to $19 billion. Up Lawrence Duprey, to March 2015, i.e. since former Chairman of C L the turnaround of CLICO’s position, some $4 Financial, parent company of CLICO, billion have been repaid. blamed the world Many depositors in St. recession and not his Vincent and the own mismanagement, Grenadines are still awaiting their payday. for the collapse of his (Source; Trinidad Express, conglomerate. (T&T Trinidad Business News) Newsday)

Targeting investors from Diaspora

Diane Edwards, president of JAMPRO, says that it is critical for Jamaica to welcome Diaspora investors, as the Diaspora community provides a great source of income and support for the country’s economy.

JAMAICA IS STEPPING UP its efforts to attract investments from its Diapora in the USA. The Jamaica Promotions Corporation

(JAMPRO) will be targeting investors and buyers/distributors from the Diaspora, to create business opportunities for Jamaican Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), at the Jamaica Diaspora Conference.

The Conference, to be hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, comes off from June 13-18, 2015.

The Jamaica Observer of May 29, reported Diane Edwards, president of JAMPRO, as saying that it was critical for Jamaica to welcome Diaspora investors, as the Diaspora community provides a great source of income and support for the country’s economy.

“The international Jamaican community has a special interest in what happens in their country.

This special interest is why we want them to come to the conference, meet our companies, and do business with them.

JAMPRO will do all in its power to facilitate this connection, and we will continue to be a bridge for local and international Jamaicans to meet and create lucrative business opportunities,” she said, according to the Jamaica Observer.

The Conference is expected to connect companies from a variety of sectors, including creative industries,

agriculture, tourism, manufacturing and energy.

The Jamaica Diaspora Conference was last staged in 2013, when a reported 200 business-tobusiness meetings were facilitated.

JAMPRO is on record as having facilitated many investments from the Diaspora community, many as a result of the Conference.

Marlene Porter, manager for Export Development (right) speaks to an attendee at the 2013, Jamaica Diaspora Conference, This type of oneon-one contact is expected to obtain during the 2015 Conference.

V

6. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Politics

NDP confident in regaining power failing,” added Eustace.

In painting a very bleak picture of the socioeconomic and political status quo in St. Vincent THE MAIN OPPOSITION and the Grenadines, New Democratic Party Eustace said the country (NDP) has reiterated its has experienced very confidence in regaining poor economic the reins of power in St. performance in the last Vincent and the seven years of the ULP Grenadines, claiming the rule, including negative Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves-led growth in four of those Unity Labour Party (ULP) years. has ran the economy to “What happens when the ground, and is riddled the economy declines, with rampant corruption there’s hardship for the and mismanagement. people,” he said, claiming In addressing a that over 40 businesses relatively large town hall have closed during the meeting Sunday night, life of this (ULP) amidst a large administration. “The thunderstorm at the attitude of the beginning and during the government in relation to 5 ½ hour-long event at our finance and budget, the Friends of Crown they never listen.”

Heights Educational Noting that there was Center in Brooklyn, New a recurrent surplus of York, NDP officials said 5.28 percent of the Gross it was time to wrest Domestic Product (GDP) control from the ULP in the 17 years that the that has governed the NDP had ruled the nation for the past 14 nation, Eustace said years. that, for the first three “The New Democratic years of the succeeding Party will win the next ULP government, the general elections in St. policy remained the Vincent and the same.

Grenadines,” Opposition But, he said, since Leader and NDP 2005, the ULP president Arnhim administration has Eustace told the “applied a decidedly enthusiastic gathering. different approach.”

“Our country is troubled by its economic ‘Massive’ deficit circumstances — which is the legacy of the Unity Eustace pointed to the Labour Party in St. recurrent estimates for Vincent and the 2014 which projected tax Grenadines — and the and non-tax revenue to economy, and the society raise EC$520 million, that is failing, and the against projected government that is recurrent expenditure of EC$664.4 million, resulting in a “massive” deficit of EC$133.9 million.

Eustace said the Estimates included an item called “Other Capital Receipts”, with projected revenues of EC$112.6 million — EC$21.3 million short.

In the 10-year period prior to the 2012 financial year, he said the “Other Capital Receipts” yielded a yearly average of EC$2.8 million.

“That projected ULP activist Erlin revenue is, therefore, a Richards, a fiction,” Eustace said.

“That’s the reality — former police officer in fictitious revenue. That the Royal St. Vincent is part of the corruption and the Grenadines in St. Vincent and the Police Force, asks a Grenadines — by saying question during the that the revenue is question-and-answer available.” segment.

According to Eustace, Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net US CORRESPONDENT

Arnhim Eustace, Leader of the Opposition, painted a bleak picture of the economic situation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Left: Part of the gathering who braved inclement weather to hear the Opposition Leader’s take of prevailing conditions in SVG. Service (NIS).”

He said the figure was revealed the “real deficit caused reflected in our after an actuary the government to budget,” examination at the transfer less funds” to Eustace said.

NIS. BRAGSA, for “But we have “They infrastructure projects — to pay it later (government) have such as roads — less on. The prime no principle,” he funds to the tourism minister said added. “They take industry for promotion [the loan is] the money, and and other activities, and only $140 they turn around less funds to education million, but and borrow from for University of the he’s not the NIS. I still have West Indies (UWI) denying the the belief that it is Archrivals: ULP activist Garnes Byron students.

Scotia Bank still happening. figures. It can’t (L) signals a potential fourth term for “When you think the ULP administration, while NDP be $140 An indebted country of these matters, activist Douglas Howard downplays it million. you have to be during question-and-answer segment.

Additionally, Eustace “With really concerned,” said that the current PetroCaribe the Opposition administration received a loan, it makes Leader said. “We and the Grenadines to loan from Venezuela, us one of the most have too much public speak very shortly on under the PetroCaribe oil indebted countries,” he corruption in St. Vincent that issue.” agreement, “to pay for added. “We are in very and the Grenadines, and Eustace also referred the same oil,” totaling 3 serious times; and, we have to do something percent, or $900 million sooner, rather than later, to the government’s about it.” deduction of EC$23 of the Caribbean’s total a decision has to be General elections are million from employees’ of $27 billion, from 2005, made. It’s very critical constitutionally due in salaries, from mid-2013 according to the Bank of that we have an St. Vincent and the to 2014, “but which was Nova Scotia. understanding. I expect Grenadines early next not paid into the “But that is not the people of St. Vincent year.

National Insurance

‘I took action,’ says PM PRIME MINISTER, Dr Ralph Gonsalves has revealed that he contacted former and current Prime Ministers of St Kitts-Nevis, Dr Denzil Douglas and Dr Timothy Harris, following the delay in the results of the February 16th General Elections in that country.

According to Gonsalves, who was at the time speaking at last week Thursday’s meeting of Parliament, Harris then contacted him after their first conversation, to discuss matters, which he did not disclose, before the results were declared.

He said further that he, acting as one of the more senior prime ministers in the region, contacted Grantley Watson, Head of the Regional Security System (RSS), and enquired about whether or not a security report had been obtained from St Kitts-Nevis, and if he would be dispatching personnel on the

PM Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said he involved himself in the impasse following the elections in St.Kitts/Nevis, because he is one of the more senior prime ministers in the region. ground to obtain a ground assessment as it related to the security condition.

“That is my responsibility, I haven’t spoken about it before, but I want the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines to know that they have a prime minister who is concerned about these matters, and who is concerned for peace and tranquillity not only in this land,

but in other parts in the region and where, in the case of the RSS, which covers the OECS and Barbados, that an especial concern be expressed,” the prime minister said.

Gonsalves, and other regional Heads of State were criticized for failing to speak out against the alleged unconstitutional actions of Prime Minister Douglas. (DDD)

V

8. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 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

Learning from FIFA FIFA IS RESPONSIBLE for regulating World Football, the most widely played sport in the world; played anywhere a small open area can be found.

Feedback is that some people here were surprised by the recent action of the United States Department of Justice, which resulted in the indictment of up to fourteen top members of FIFA, including Austin ‘Jack’ Warner of Trinidad and Tobago.

Warner was a FIFA Executive Committee member since 1983, and CONCACAF President since 1990. He was Vice President of FIFA and President of CONCACAF until his suspension and eventual resignation from these roles in 2011, under a cloud of accusations of financial indiscretion.

Folks might have been surprised because they did not know that for some time now, the United States Department of Justice and Internal Revenue Service had been conducting their own investigation into whether or not US banks, and other US institutions, were used by FIFA members to launder money.

Those investigations were intensified when Charles ‘Chuck’ Blazer, a top level member of FIFA, and once a close confidante of Warner, turned informant for the Department of Justice and Internal Revenue Service.

Blazer, it is said, became an informant when he was caught taking bribes, laundering money and evading income tax, and executed his ‘duty’ as informant to the extent that he is said to have worn a wire at meetings with other top level members of FIFA. Blazer was in fact a FIFA Executive Committee member from 1996 to 2013, the CONCACAF General Secretary from 1990 until 2011, and Executive Vice President of the U.S. Soccer Federation. He, therefore, was well-positioned to serve as the mole for an investigation that deliberately targeted CONCACAF members and under-developed footballing nations.

The reports that have surfaced since the arrest of the fourteen, say that over one hundred-fifty million dollars was involved in money laundering and bribes.

All of this, i.e. the FIFA scandal, the arrest of seemingly trustworthy executives, amount to nothing short of a sad commentary on mankind; a commentary that speaks to graft and corruption as continuing to abound almost everywhere, not least in the extremely lucrative world of international sports.

Every day, it seems, we hear/read in the media that elected (government) officials, members of law enforcement, and the corporate community cannot seem to obey the law.

Yet, it appears that there is a marked imbalance, across the globe, in how these acts of graft and corruption are addressed.

Here in the Caribbean, we are wont, too often, to sweep the issue under the proverbial carpet, hoping that as we trample on it all will be forgotten. And, if the truth be told, this is often the result.

This is in stark contrast to the People’s Republic of China where sentences for graft and corruption are dealt with harshly, including death sentences. In the USA, elected officials, law enforcement members and corporate executives are sentenced to substantial prison sentences, albeit to be served at ‘Club Fed’, minimum security prisons.

This is not to say that in some cases, those convicted of graft and corruption are not ordered (or is it forced) to make restitution.

Whatever the outcome, in many cases, misappropriated funds are hard to find or retrieve. And what is the result? The law-abiding public, hardworking, honest taxpayers, end up paying for this graft and corruption!

There is a lesson for all elected (public) officials and corporate citizens: There is no easier way to lose the confidence of the majority than to involve yourself in the graceless acts of graft and corruption.

Mohandas Ghandi is wise is this regard, when he warns that, ‘An impure means results in an impure end’. Any organization, whether it be government, sporting association, corporate entity, that gives indication that it is ridiculously and woefully run will implode, and its functionaries either left to rue their deeds in the pasture of wilderness, or made to pay for their inefficiency and inappropriateness.

If some good is to come of the decades of misrule and mismanagement by FIFA officials, it is that it should become a study by students and current day functionaries in management and government, as an exemplary case of how to get things wrong.

Everything about the FIFA debacle speaks to the lack of oversight, to the concentration of power in too few hands, and how not to govern with authority.

The allegations of corruption are not easily proven, but FIFA tells us in unambiguous language, what happens ‘when children play with edged tools’; when an entity bestowed with the privilege of managing resources on behalf of the people, doesn’t have the requisite resilience to cope. Nuff said!!!!

Dr Kenneth John since Adult Suffrage IT IS JUST POSSIBLE that I misheard Bing Joseph in his recent interview with Sir James Mitchell. Bing praised him for being the only politician so far that led a team, in 1989, that licked the platter clean,taking all fifteen elected seats.

I will have Mr. Bing know that, in the very first election under the universal franchise, the Eighth Army of Liberation won all 8 elected seats in October 1954?

35 years ahead of Mitchell’s feat with the NDP in 1989.

True, the 8th Army victory was shortlived, to within a few months of their historic victory, the Administration splitting the group in halves, four members who sided with the administration and conservative interests.

George Charles, Herman Young, Evans Morgan and Clive Tannis; and a relatively radical wing led by Ebenezer Joshua, backed up by the two Baynes brothers, Rudolph and Julian, and Samuel Eric Slater.

One thing leads to another. I mentioned the Baynes brothers in this fight. Over the years, there have been many other examples, like the Joshua brothers in the 1954 election. Ebenezer and Joseph Joshua, of whom Joshua declared, using their symbols to telling effect, the cricket wicket and the ball, ‘the game is in our hands’.

Later on, in 1994, we had as many as three brothers running for different parties: Stanley ‘Stalky’ John (Labour), Linton Lewis (NDP) and another for an apology of a party!

Then there is the father and son teams, of which the current Prime Minister and his son, Camillo, are a striking pair, running in the same elections at that!

Of course, we have witnessed this twosome in different elections John Thompson and son Jerrol, and Young’s team of Layou, of father Herman Fraser Young and son Herbert Young. And there are Hubert Daisley and his son Lennox contesting for Labour and the NDP, after a break of 40 years. And Alphonso Dennie and Olin Dennie in North Leeward before.

And before them were the father and sons team of Daniel and his son Montgomery, the current minister of Agriculture in North Windward. George Charles and his son Kenneth Williams providing the comic relief of this category.

I note that the brothers Ken and Julian ‘Bucky’ Boyea also tried their luck on behalf of Labour and NDP at different times. On one occasion. “Bruds” Gonsalves ran on an NDP ticket for the constituency now held by brother, Ralph!

Also, there have been the brothers

Alpheus “Son” and Gordon Allen contesting in local elections on behalf of the PPP, with elder “Son” having a shot at the higher federal level.

Little known is that Nigel “Nature” Stephenson is the son of Brinsley Nickie, who contested turbulent elections for the WPP way back when.

There have also been two or three avuncular relationships at the top level.

For what it is worth, we have to mention Milton Cato and his nephew Burns Bonadie, who contested in turn for Labour and the NDP respectively; and Cyril Mitchell, uncle of “Son”, who once contested against each other. The family is a most interesting institution, especially where it projects into national politics for good and evil in equal measure.

Readers will note that so far, women do not feature much in politics. Their time cannot be far off.

In present day SVG, there is torrid debate as to which of the political leaders commanded the loyalty of the masses longest. The argument is largely meaningless but nonetheless attractive.

Joshua lasted for all of 28 unbroken years, 1951/1979.

Mitchell was active from 1966/2001, about 34 years, including a brief ½ year period when he had not even his own seat.

And Gonsalves now approaches the crest with successful political activism 1994/2015, 21 years and continuing, say a further 5 years for keeping North Central Windward safe ULP. All told 26 years a figure hovering around the 24 years of 1961/1985 Cato, plus another two associated with the Federal Government.

In terms of years of political leadership, Mitchell remains first, with Joshua runnerup, and Cato and Gonsalves bring up the rear, after a manner of speaking.

I turn my attention over the next four weeks in dealing with the carnival.

Barring the infiltration of some overriding social issue, I will reproduce articles dealing with calypso kings, in the order of De Professor, Alston ‘Becket’ Cyrus and De Man Age. By independence date, we ought to be sorting out finally the cardinal question of “National Heroes”, after which the country, and “This Week” will be very much alive to the burning issue of the next elections which should take place, whether or not there are bells to be rung, in the month of December, a lucky month for the ULP electionwise.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 7.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 9.

Letters

‘Adultage’ or children

AT WHAT AGE is a child considered an adult?

A girl under 18 years by law, cannot give consent to a sexual act. Yet, you will see fete promoters asking for children under 12 or sometimes under 15, to pay halfprice. I am not complaining for, in fact, at that age, you are legally children.

But when you ask a child between 14 & 17 to pay adult fee, that is robbery, and the government is doing nothing about that.

Also, they are charging what they call an ‘advance fee’ or more at the door, which in most cases comes to more than $10.00 of the ‘advance price’.

Does the government know how many ‘advance tickets’ are sold and how many ‘at-the-door tickets’ are sold for tax purposes?

Do both tickets have the same colour and prices mark on them?

It is time for the government to do something about such actions and have it regulated.

Taxpayer

VSPCA responds Jack warner I write on behalf of VSPCA to respond to a misguided and misleading letter in your newspaper of last week, headlined ‘Hypocrisy or what!!!!!!!!!’, and signed by someone hiding behind anonymity as ‘A.W. Induppp’.

First, let me clarify, for the few people who might have taken Induppp seriously, that VSPCA has no special power to investigate or prosecute acts of cruelty to animals. We detest ALL instances of animal abuse but, like any other citizens, we can only report such matters to the police and hope that they implement the law.

Second, we hope that it is not the case that the letter writer would hide his or her identity behind a made-up name for the purpose of rehashing a “cold case”, to make a political point by taking cheap shots at the members of a charitable organization who are trying so very hard to make a difference in our communities.

Third, if your anonymous writer is so passionate about animal welfare, we invite him or her to volunteer to help us in our charitable work. Our telephone number is 532-9327.

Lastly, if anonymous Induppp, or indeed any member of the public, witnesses animal abuse, they should report the matter to the police immediately. The number is 911.

Margaret Hughes Ferrari Vice-President

DonÊt blame me!

MR. EDITOR, I read on the internet about a Minister of Government in Antigua who told his persons in his constituency, including persons who apparently voted for him, that they should not blame him when they lose their jobs. Apparently, the Minister had found jobs for some of his people, but they lost their jobs, after they did not perform well.

Now this struck me because I was left to wonder whether something like this would ever happen here in SVG. I bet my bottom dollar that the first thing that would have happened is that somebody would have called those employers to try to get those persons back in their jobs.

We must learn that we can only stay in a job if we perform, especially in private business places. A business-man doesn’t want to know that he is paying for a half-way job. He wants to get his money’s worth.

Perhaps it is time we use the same attitude when it comes to people working in government. Too many of them feel they are there for life because of who sent them.

I raise my hand to that Antiguan minister. His action should be one that others should follow.

This nation needs to fear God

George Stapleton

The Campden Park dock

WHAT IS GODLY about our nation, St. Vincent and the Grenadines? Is it because of the ritual pray that do on National Day of Prayer or because almost by every street corner there is a church?

In the House of Parliament, there is no fear of Yahuveh.

It is a sin to pray to any other God but Yahuveh and Yahushua (Jesus). You Church, this is wrong, and you did not let the government know this. Shame on all of you who held your silence, and did nothing to take away the reproach of this being done on the airwaves.

You fear your own deacons, congregations and government more than Yahuveh.

As you assemble in prayer, churches, temples, mosques, homes, and streets, how many were praying in the name of Yahshua the God of your salvation?

This nation has a form of godliness, but no godliness within. Exodus 20: You shall have no other God before me. You shall not make yourself a carved image, any likeness of anything that is in heaven or above or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth, you shall not bow down to them.

Proverbs 14:34 — Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.

2 Chronicles 7:14 — If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sins and heal their land.

MAYBE I missed it, or maybe I’m wrong. But I don’t recall seeing any news coverage of the inoperability of the single functioning crane on the dock at Campden Park. Aren’t there two cranes there–one that work’s and one that doesn’t? And the one that “works” has been inoperable for more than a month, perhaps two, necessitating incoming freighters to use their own onboard cranes to unload and reload?

If your investigation says this is wrong, don’t print this. If it is true, or some aspect is true–-it was down, and is now up, or that both cranes are now up (hold my heart!), the public should be outraged! What kind of rinky-dink country has the ULP Government allowed us to become, that we can’t even unload a boat anymore? Do we need to put up gang planks, and employ men to breakdown the contents of the containers to move them onto waiting trucks? How long are supermarkets and hardware stores and dry goods suppliers to be without stock, making excuses to customers, because stock is not available due to dock handling delays?

And I have not heard of any further developments in the Ottley Hall lease arrangement. What are the plans for investment or development that prompted PM Gonsalves to enter into the agreement? Has any of the media interviewed or researched any of the lessors?

Are they to be absentee landlords just sucking revenue out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines?

And lastly, I have E-mailed a number of missives to Jomo Thomas to his address listed at the end of his Plain Talk column, “wefirst@aol.com”. All have been sent back with a “MAILER-DAEMON” failure notice.

You might ask him to update his E-mail address, if he really is interested in hearing from his readers (or being elected).

Again, I rely on the news media to verify the facts, investigate situations, and print the truth.

Teddi Bernard

HJA

helped many SO THE GREAT Jack Warner has been indicted by the United States of America… note, the United States of America… not Trinidad and Tobago, not the rest of the Caribbean, not Central America, but the most powerful country in the world.

You know, Mr. Warner’s arrest reminds me that the United States of America gives up on no one, especially someone who is perceived to have done that country or its people any harm. Remember Bin Laden??

For those of you who think that Mr. Warner will be simply handed over to the United States of America authorities, think again. Mr. Warner will fight the request for his extradition to the bitter end. And that could take some time.

There is no doubt that Mr. Warner, when he was a high-ranking member of FIFA, brought great benefits to the CONCACAF region — the Caribbean included — as well as to Africa. Mr. Warner went out of his way to ensure that football money was spent in under-developed countries — in the black world, if I may say so. He endeared himself to many and, I am certain, would have crossed paths with some of those Europeans who continue to believe that they own world football.

The unfortunate thing is that we are now discovering that much of that money spent in those under-developed countries — the Caribbean included — might not have been ‘safe’ money after all.

In the process, Mr. Warner feathered his own nest; but there are many, many others who would have also benefited directly or indirectly from his indiscretions.

At the end of the day, he has to fight his own battles and, sadly, cannot look to those ‘others’ for support. * How come it takes two months for some persons, Hinds and much less time for others, for nationals living in the USA to get a SVG passport? * Has the Foreign Ministry received any reports about There’s a part of me the uncouth manner That wants to let you go in which our Deputy and of us, Consul General in But all I want to say, New York deals I love you. with nationals I know you don’t want living there? to hear this, * Is anyone with authority looking But all of me, into having some Misses all of you. ‘customer relations’ Sometimes I wish we training for the staff were back again, at that Consulate?

But I know things will * Why are older never be the same, persons saying that It makes me cry, it looks like the job Knowing that my love of a Permanent wasn’t enough to make Secretary has you stay. changed? That the PS of old was seen I realized, but not heard; now The pain will still be it’s the other way there, around, with every So will be the love that PS wanting to give we share, big speeches all over But one thing I do the place? know, * Ah wonder which That feeling will always party raised more remain in my heart, money from all those barbeques in forever!

New York? How come they don’t Yanic Sayers have barbeques SVG - 2015 down here?

For my past lover

V

10. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Some accomplishments by the The NDPÊs to do list for its first year in office ULP that we don’t talk about The Issue THESE DAYS, when Vincentians sit down to talk about the things that the ULP has accomplished over the last fourteen years, there are several trademark items that will be at the centre of that conversation. They will talk about the education revolution, a rapid revamping of the education system in the country, which has touched the lives of all Vincentians. The international airport project at Argyle will be next on the list, followed by the housing revolution, the Rabacca bridge, and the leadership provided to keep the economy stable.

Other topics will follow, for example, the way the government responds to the needs of the country in a natural disaster, and the developments in the health sector.

But there are a number of smaller projects implemented by the ULP administration, which have affected the lives of Vincentians in a positive way. We have taken these projects for granted; but we will refresh your minds, and you will further appreciate the work the ULP has done, in the overall social and economic development of the country.

The modernization of the motor vehicle licence system Not many of us will remember the days when we had to rush to the Inland Revenue Department every December, to pay our drivers and vehicle licence. There were long lines to contend with, particularly at the Police inspection facility at Arnos Vale, where the vehicles were checked for their road worthiness.

What did the ULP administration do? First, there was the revamping of the drivers licence system by the abolition of the licence books, which were replaced by a designer friendly card, with all the relevant information. We no longer had to carry around the small licence books, all torn and tattered, and there was now an option to pay licences for a period of one, two or three years.

Secondly, the ULP administration made it easier for Vincentians to obtain licences for their vehicles, by assigning the last numeral of their number plates, to a month. So, for example, a motor vehicle with the number ending with the numeral one, will pay their motor vehicle licence in the month of January, and a vehicle with the numeral two will pay their licence in the month of February.

This has resulted in a more orderly management of the licensing process.

Many persons have forgotten about this change, because the ULP made it look so simple.

conducted in such a manner as to make governance look easy.

Street vending in Pauls Avenue In 2001, the Paul’s Avenue area was in a mess, with vending being conducted along the road area in a disorganized manner. Pedestrian and motor vehicular traffic were being affected, and the area was generally unsightly. The ULP administration constructed the George McIntosh Community market, named after that stalwart trade unionist, politician and pharmacist, “Dada Mac” McIntosh, who passed away in 1963.

This facility provided the people of Paul’s Avenue with a clean, safe, attractive and organized facility to conduct their vending. At the same time, the National Lotteries Authority constructed a state of the art headquarters building, transforming the area further to make it good for business. Now, we drive along the Pauls Avenue, without remembering that it was the ULP administration who renovated the area.

The Layou Waterfront The Layou waterfront is one of the more picturesque sites in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, but there was a time, notably around 2001, when the area was a disaster waiting to happen. The beach area was an environmental hazard that could have affected the people of that town.

Along came the ULP administration, and under the driving force of the area representative, Sir Louis Straker, the area was transformed, and the coastal area and the town, were protected. This was all part of the development of the NEMO facility, after the NDP neglected that project for some thirty months.

Now, we drive along the area, and sometimes we picnic at this site, and we don’t remember what it was like, in the days of the NDP. Again, it was the ULP administration making government look so easy.

Conclusion

Because of space constraint, we have not been able to expand on several other ULP initiatives, which may have been forgotten. For example, we forget about the work done on the police stations at Canouan and Biabou, the automotive repair training centre at the Technical The Byera/Park Hill tunnels Wing of the Community College; the learning resources centres When the ULP arrived in office in constructed; the early childhood 2001, it found two tunnels on the windward side of the island, at Byrea education centres; the new tourism sites at Rawacou, Owia, Walliabou, and Park Hill, in a dilapidated Vermont and Black Point, among condition. The Park Hill tunnel was barely passable, low and narrow, and others; and the expansion to the unsafe for vehicular traffic. The Byera garbage collection system nationwide, tunnel was in a similar condition, and including the Grenadines.

We conclude with the words of was also described as being Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, structurally unsound.

“Our country is a blessed one. We are Within a year, the ULP had a small nation but a great people. The widened, reinforced and resurfaced burdensome challenges before us the Byera tunnel, and the Park Hill cannot be wished away; our large tunnel was resurfaced and made possibilities cannot be realised by safer. mere wishful thinking. Hard, smart Now, motorists use these tunnels work is required. There must be no let without remembering the state they up on our individual and collective were in, when the ULP took office. endeavours to progress”.

That’s because the repairs were Forward to the fourth term.

THE NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY (NDP) congratulates SPOONY for organizing another successful Town Hall Meeting in Brooklyn, New York. The NDP was represented by the Honourable Arnhim Eustace, the Honourable Roland “Patel” Matthews and Mr. Glenford Stewart, who all made exceptional presentations.

Throughout their presentations, they demonstrated to the Diaspora and the electorate of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, that the NDP has the programmes and policies to revive the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In his speech, the Honourable Arnhim Eustace outlined the top fifteen items that the NDP will begin and do, over the course of its first year in office: 1. Appoint a Committee on Public Financing and Debt to give us an actual picture of the state of our country’s financial situation.

2. Remove VAT on more than 100 basic foods and service items including electricity, to become more competitive in our industries.

3. Replant and rehabilitate 1000 acres of bananas in the first year.

4. Complete the reinstatement of a development bank to support enterprise and development.

5. Implement CDF (Constituency Development Fund) to provide local employment and handle constituency development and small projects at constituency level.

6. Pay fees for all CXC and CAPE examinations, so our young people can afford to sit the number of examinations for the subjects they are signed up to do at CXC and CAPE. 7. Revive and Refinance the Book Loan Scheme, a scheme started by Arnhim Eustace as Minister of Finance.

8. Begin the maintenance of all constituency playing fields.

9. Tackle and reduce crime at the community level.

10. Design and Implement a National Health Insurance Scheme.

Preparation was completed by the NDP before it left government in 2000, and NEVER implemented by the ULP. It will be done.

11. Improve health facilities and availability of medication at the hospitals and clinics for persons who are unwell, so they would not have to leave the hospitals and clinics when they are sick to get medication not available at the hospitals and clinics.

12. Begin the process of repaying the government’s debt to the Private Sector.

13. Do what is necessary to COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION of the Argyle International Airport.

14. Create 500 technology jobs in our first year.

15 Introduce Integrity Legislation.

It must be noted that the five hundred (500) jobs mentioned are in the Information Technology sector alone. More jobs will be created in the agricultural sector, the tourism industry, through the implementation of the Constituency Development Fund, in the private sector and from projects that will be implemented.

The highpoint of the meeting was the announcement by the Honourable Arnhim Eustace that the NDP will grant honorary citizenship to our Garifuna brothers and sisters, when it wins the next general elections. The following is a press release by the party, captioned, ‘Garifuna to be Offered Honorary Citizenship’: “The Hon. Arnhim Eustace spent more than a week in the US holding meetings with persons in business and industry, with Vincentians from all walks of life, and with a delegation from the Garifuna Nation led by Dr.

Wellington C Ramos and Joseph Guerrero. Eustace held long meetings with the Garifuna representatives for whom St. Vincent and the Grenadines is their ancestral home Yurumei.

This meeting culminated a number of other interactions with the group which represents more than 700,000 descendants of the Garifuna of our islands. The Garifuna who attended the NDP’s town hall meeting in Brooklyn last evening were elated to hear Mr. Eustace articulate the following policy position of the New Democratic Party: 1. That the NDP will work along with the Garifuna to inculcate in our national cultural education and Vincentian product, aspects of Garifuna culture including the history and language, which reconnect them with us as a nation. This includes some form of permanent national monument to the Garifuna to be located at Balliceaux.

2. The NDP will grant honorary citizenship to Garifuna people who wish to identify with St. Vincent and the Grenadines, their ancestral homeland, and will continue in consultation with the Garifuna to determine the details of that honorary citizenship.

The NDP leader, in his presentation, underscored the importance of the Garifuna to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and committed an NDP government to forging links in trade and tourism and culture, with our Garifuna brothers and sisters worldwide.”

The Honourable Arnhim Eustace should be commended for the vision to embrace our Garifuna brothers and sisters, by offering honorary citizenship to them. Our Garifuna brothers and sisters are all excited, and very soon will be visiting their homeland, Yurumei. Moreover, Vincentians can now begin to think of the economic benefits that can be derived from such an offer, as we eagerly anticipate meeting our Garifuna brothers and sisters.

But what is most disturbing, is the response from the Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, to the Garifuna’s honorary citizenship which was proposed by the Honourable Arnhim Eustace. He shocked the entire nation by his ridiculous and absurd statements, e.g. “If they are coming for jobs.” Is this the man we want to continue to govern St. Vincent and the Grenadines? With all the boast about the ‘Education Revolution’, it would appear that the Prime Minister does not believe that Vincentians are educated and have the ability to think for themselves. He continues to insult Vincentians; but he must be reminded that the politics of fear, which worked in the 1960s and 70s, cannot and will not work again. We are in 2015, and Vincentians are more educated and smarter. It’s time for Prime Minister Gonsalves and the ULP to go.

The choice is clear. The NDP has the best election team to have ever been assembled by any political party in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Because of that team, and the fact that we have the social and economic programmes and policies to rescue this country, Vincentians must vote for the NDP. The NDP is ready to deliver on its promises. We Ready!

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 11.

Views

Sir Hilary Beckles: UWI’s 8th Vice-Chancellor

“Within our walls and beyond I will do my very best to harness our community togetherness and to frame strategies necessary to enable regional development and community prosperity.

To these ends, I seek your continued assistance and friendship, and urge your guidance, assistance, goodwill and support.” - Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies.

PROFESSOR SIR HILARY BECKLES assumed office as Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies on May 1, 2015. The installation ceremony for this grand achievement was held at the Usain Bolt Sport Complex of the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) on Saturday, May 31, 2015.

What a grand occasion that was! Three regional heads of government attended the three-hour ceremony: Barbados’ Prime Minister Right Honourable Freundel Stuart; the Bahamas’ Prime Minister and Chairman of the CARICOM, Honourable Perry Gladstone Christie; and the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. The Honourable Ralph E. Gonsalves. Several regional Ministers of Education also attended.

Professor Sir Hilary Beckles is UWI’s eighth Vice-Chancellor. His predecessors were Sir William Arthur Lewis (1960-1963), Sir Philip Sherlock (1963-1969), Sir Roy Marshall (1969 1974), Dr. Aston Zachariah Preston (1974-1986), Sir Alister McIntyre (19861998), Professor Rex Nettleford (19982004), and Professor E. Nigel Harris (2004-2015).

Professor Beckles obtained his primary education in his homeland Barbados. He migrated to England while still a boy, and pursued his secondary and tertiary education there.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in Economics and Social History from Hull University in 1976. He then entered that university’s PhD programme, and graduated four years later, in 1980. Sir Hilary has received numerous awards. These have included Honorary Doctor of Letters from numerous institutions of higher learning. These were awarded in recognition of his significant contributions to academic research in relation to transatlantic slavery, regional culture, and West Indian cricket. He received Barbados’ highest honour when he was made a Commander Knight of St. Andrew (KA), in recognition of his distinguished service in the field of education; in particular at university level, and his dedication to the furtherance of the arts and sport - in particular cricket.

Professor Beckles has lectured extensively in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas. He is a prolific researcher and author, and has published several books. These have included, but are not limited to, Britain’s Black Debt: Reparations for Slavery in the Caribbean (2013); A History of Barbados: From Amerindian Settlement to Caribbean Single Market (2006); A Nation Imagined: The First West Indies Test Team: The 1928 Tour (2003); Centering Woman: Gender Discourses in Caribbean Slave Society (1999); The Development of West Indies Cricket: The Age of Nationalism, Vol. 1 (1999); The Development of West Indies Cricket: The Age of Globalization, Vol. 2 (1999); and Afro-Caribbean Women and Resistance to Slavery in Barbados (1988).

Professor Sir Hilary functioned as Principal of the Cave Hill Campus and

Pro Vice-Chancelor of UWI, during the period 2002-2015. His reputation as an Economic Historian and a distinguished university administrator will serve him well as he takes on the mammoth task of leading UWI through some very challenging social and financial times.

However, his very positive track record provides regional and international stakeholders with confidence as we wait with bated breath to observe and join him in his efforts to chart a new course of development for this noble institution of higher learning.

There were many gala presentations at Sir Hilary’s installation ceremony.

The Pinelands Creative Workshop Drummers were outstanding as they provided the drum call as the accompanying music for the procession of the university officials from throughout and beyond the region who attended the ceremony in their colourful robes and mortarboards. Not to be outdone, the Royal Barbados Police Force Band provided a trumpet fanfare during the early part of the ceremony.

Singer David Rudder’s rendition of “High Mas” would probably go down on record as being one of his best performances. Anthony “Gabby” Carter, Ibo Cooper, and Ophelia Marie must also be commended for their melodious singing of “Reparations Song”. These were complemented by the outstanding oratory presentations as the representatives of the Guild of Students, the UWI Alumni Association, the Principal of the Cave Hill Campus, the Principal of the Mona Campus, the Principal of the Open Campus, and the Principal of the St. Augustine Campus conveyed greetings. These presentations highlighted Sir Hilary Beckles’ exceptional accomplishments and the expectation that he will perform his duties as Vice-Chancellor extremely well.

Sir Hilary’s inaugural address as Vice-Chancellor will understandably be considered the climax of the installation ceremony. He was evidently emotional, as he acknowledged the presence of his aging parents, Aidan and Carmentha Beckles, in the audience. Sir Hilary trusted that his father, now in his late 90s, would reach that coveted landmark to become a centenarian. He also paused to recognise the tremendous support he received from his wife, siblings, and his two sons who were also seated in the audience. His presentation provided a detailed review of his academic, professional, and personal journey.

The new Vice-Chancellor noted that the English-speaking Caribbean is at the bottom of the list in the Western Hemisphere where access to tertiary level education is concerned. He noted that the research covering the area from Alaska in the north to Argentina in the south, confirms that “We are at the bottom of the hemisphere pile in terms of the number of our citizens between ages 18 and 30 who are enrolled in higher education.” He assured the audience of his unwavering commitment to the development of all people of the region through education.

He promised to exert his best efforts as he seeks to build on the accomplishments of his predecessors.

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

Caribbean needs a ‘big conversation’ ST LUCIA’S PM Dr Kenny Anthony has called on regional leaders to engage the people of the region in a big conversation on the current state of affairs confronting the region. We could not agree more.

Dr Anthony, at a lecture in Barbados, said some Caribbean countries are refusing to face up to the impact of the global economic crisis. “The tragedy of the times is that we are in the throes of a major crisis like the Caribbean has never ever experienced before, but we are refusing to face the reality that confronts us, and all of us are engaged in one form or another of self —denial.”

Speaking on the theme ‘Education in the Caribbean - Challenges and Opportunities Facing Small Developing States’, the St. Lucian prime minister challenged his regional colleagues “to be honest about the hard and unusual decisions that must be made because of difficult global economic conditions.”

“It is a costly business to tell your people that things are hard, things are difficult, and precisely because things are hard and things are difficult, that you have to take unusual measures to deal with it. But it is necessary that we do so.”

Dr Anthony did not speak to the unusual measures the region needs to take. I want to suggest some. First among these is the notion that we must tell no lies and claim no easy victories. Another is for us to rethink our thinking on what are the sources of our difficulties and how we can get out of the morass the region and the world currently face.

Dr Anthony’s view that our leaders close their ears and minds to frank and honest talk is evident. And for emphasis, he charges us all with “We don’t like frank talk. We don’t like open talk. We don’t like honest talk.”

Some may explain this failure on the part of our elected officials by pointing to the fact that we live in a parliamentary democracy with periodic elections. And that truth may spell certain electoral defeat. Others say we cannot expect better from the opposition because, instead of looking at the systemic difficulties, they lay all of the blame for the country’s woes on the government.

This reality does not make for people having a true understanding of the realities they face. This failure to speak openly, frankly and honestly explains the level of false expectations that has taken hold among the people.

It is no wonder as Dr Anthony says, that voters increasingly demand some form of economic reward for their votes.

Dr Anthony said that we are going through a global economic crisis, the likes of which we have never seen.

Yet in most of the discourse, people are told that the international economic crisis is not the main reason for the difficulties they face daily.

Anthony expressed frustration that countries are busy looking inwardeach busy with its own agenda, rather

than pursue a Caribbean solution to the economic crisis. But we have to look deeper. Regional integration that will allow for a singular approach to the outside world is definitely superior to the individualized responses we currently have; but let’s not fool ourselves.

The countries of Europe are banded together in the EU; the United States, Canada and Mexico by the trade pact, NAFTA. These are some of the most developed and powerful countries in the world. Yet they are encountering enormous problems that are having hurtful and harmful impact on their populations. Therefore, solutions to our problems are not to be found simply by a regional approach.

We have to do a better job of explaining the problems and difficulties to our people. We have to demand sacrifice from everyone. And most of all, we have to admit that these societies are not possessed with the resources to solve all of the problems which our countries face.

The task then is to fight to make the countries more equitable. We have to break down class and racial barriers, and give more people a stake in the countries in which they live.

There is no doubt that we have studied our problems. Institutions such as Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have made numerous suggestions as to how we can solve our problems. In the main, we have adopted most if not all of these suggestions. But to no avail.

I am reminded of an interview given to the New York Times by our former PM James Mitchell in 1993. In it, Mitchell expressed frustration over the fact that his government and others in the region adopted literally every EU, World Bank and IMF prescription. We are yet to realize the promised relief from these measures.

In the last 30 years, we have adopted a raft of neo-liberal policies that calls for selling off of state assets.

Everything must be privatized for our economies to function well. But to a large extent, a significant section of our region and population remain mired in poverty and underdevelopment.

Therefore, the big conversation Dr Anthony called for must include an indepth discussion of all of the strategies for economic development.

Unless we are prepared to place everything on the agenda, including the thinking that ungirds the current international financial and economic architecture which dominate discourse on development, we are in essence refusing to have the big conversation called for by the esteemed brother, prime minister of St Lucia.

Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com

V

12. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

Gonsalves wants 4th term, but fails in managing public finances GONSALVES is not a university graduate in finance, and has been hopeless at managing the public finances. The Director of Audit failed Gonsalves on the audit of public accounts in 2008, 2009 and 2010; yet he asks for a 4th term in office.

The cost of living has increased under the ULP regime, due to all the taxes it has imposed on our people Yet, most government workers are on wage freeze, and many households lack income because unemployment has dramatically increased.

Vincentians are suffering under the ULP regime, and a 4th term would be devastating.

In the Director of Audit’s report 2008, it said that the accuracy of the assessment of revenue at the Inland Revenue Department could not be verified, due to non-access to the records. Gonsalves must comply with the Director of Audit; no one is above the SVG Constitution.

If the Director of Audit cannot form an opinion on public accounts, then it is clear that there is a serious lack of financial accountability and transparency with the public accounts. Hundreds of millions of dollars are missing. Gonsalves has a duty to resign as the SVG Minister of Finance, for not reaching the required standard on accountability and transparency, and failing the audit of public accounts in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Gonsalves’ financial incompetence is a clear reason to reject the ULP regime at the polls.

Gonsalves has shown us the best he can do, and his best is atrocious. All around the country, the evidence shows that our country is in a terrible financial mess. SVG is not far off from being a failed state.

Gonsalves has based the economy on begging and

borrowing from foreign countries. Whilst this has helped a select few to become rich, most of the country is struggling. Gonsalves’ financial foolishness is illustrated by his wasting money on a jail and not focusing on revenue-creating industries.

As well as wasting EC$800 million on the Argyle airport, Gonsalves’ financial foolishness is further illustrated by his investment in dead projects — projects that bring no financial return — such as building the market at North Union, the resource centres, and, at Diamond, ironically building a centre of ‘excellence’.

A financially prudent and competent SVG government should invest in projects that create revenue and bring financial returns. The revenue created from these projects would be used to pay for the government’s recurrent expenditure, like government workers’ wages and health and education obligations.

The excess revenue created, after paying recurrent expenditure, should then be invested in other projects that bring a social return and benefit to our society. It is important for an SVG government to create revenue, as then it can reduce the public debt at the same time as increasing the prosperity of Vincentian people and businesses.

This is why a Green government will invest in revenue-creating projects, such as taxing the superrich of Mustique and Canouan, and recouping the tax that they should have paid over the years, cutting ties with Taiwan and forming a jointventure tuna fishing industry with China, building a fish canning

and processing factory, building agro-processing factories and exporting freshwater in tanker loads.

What we have seen from the incompetent Gonsalves is 3 terms of recklessness and stupidity with the public finances. SVG cannot afford to have a 4th term of Gonsalves’ financial hopelessness.

Gonsalves has failed to bring prosperity to our people. Year after year, we see failure after failure from the ULP regime, and this has resulted in no money circulating our economy. To compensate for Gonsalves’ inability to create revenue, the ULP regime has sold off thousands of acres of our land to foreigners.

On election day, SVG should vote for a positive change — out with Gonsalves’ gross incompetence in managing the public finances, and in with a Green government bringing financial competence and reliability, and a new SVG Minister of Finance who is a university graduate in finance and has the ability to create revenue, Mr Ivan O’Neal.

A 4th term for Gonsalves would collapse our economy, cause many more businesses to close down and create higher unemployment. Vote Green Party for a strong economy, revenue creation and thousands of new jobs.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Is there a Criminal Enterprise at Peruvian Vale?

Do important Law Enforcement Officials have a stake in it?

WHILE I was a young and tender youth, my dear grandmother drilled into me the words that shaped the way I would like my life, and the way I would regard property that did not belong to me. Her mantra, “Crime does not pay”, resonates always with me — even up to today, many, many years later. Nowadays, this value no longer holds true, and criminals of every kind are having a field day here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In an article, dated 15th May, 2015, and captioned, “Utter nonsense”, the News newspaper cites the Commissioner of Police as being very dismissive of statements implicating a very senior police officer in the felonious act of having stolen goods recovered from that officer’s home by police officers investigating a burglary, committed by the said officer’s cousin.

Mr. Commissioner, you are a good and upright man. Never, never vouch for anyone except yourself. You do not know what we do, but you can ensure that crime does not pay this officer anymore.

Persons in the immediate environs — the quiet villages of Peruvian Vale, Spring, and Yambou and even Diamond are very dissatisfied because their homes are vandalized, their goods are stolen, and the wellknown burglar remains at large, even in the face of overwhelming evidence that will keep him in prison for a while. The police in the various outstations want to do what is right; but the senior officer will call to intimidate them and keep them from doing their job. This is a well-known fact that the officer in question is protecting the criminal and, God

forbid, could well be benefiting from the proceeds of his crime.

If the officer, who has sworn to uphold the law, chooses instead to break it in order to live light and weigh heavy, that is criminal. People deserve to sleep comfortably in their beds at night, and not to feel that every sound is a break-in; they should be able to travel away from their homes, and not meet their burglar-proofing beaten out. We deserve better in Hairouna!

Mr. Commissioner, I am calling on you to do the right and honourable thing! Have the senior officer investigated. It is not enough to take that person to task at the weekly officers’ meeting. The officer must be stopped. And with the overwhelming evidence that I am certain will surface, charge the officer, charge her and any family members who are sporting cell phones and jewellery that other people are crying for.

There is a lesson we can learn from Sepp Blather. While it is true he could not monitor every FIFA official, he put no hindrance in the way of the investigators, and today, the delinquent and corrupt officials will face their comeuppance.

Mr. Commissioner, the past few years have seen a lot of bad press for the police, far more than is reasonable. Let your watch be seen as the watch of an honest man who has to manage officers he did not shape.

Be ‘tough on crime and the causes of crime’, even when the criminal is a police officer of high rank. Criminals belong behind bars, not in law enforcement.

Brock Hayes

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 13.

News

Increase channel range from FLOW CUSTOMERS WITH FLOW’S new Digital Video service, once again have the opportunity to expand their viewing pleasure, with the addition of another two video channels to the digital video line-up. As of June 1st, 2015, FLOW has secured the rights, and commenced airing of GINX TV and Outdoor Sport Channel.

Corey Garrett, marketing and communications manager said “Our mission with FLOW Video continues to be one where we can cater for every viewer - via optionality and customization; with the addition of GINX & Outdoor Sport Channel into our optional package line-ups, we are once again a step closer.

With this in mind, our customers cannot lose!”

GINX TV is a gaming network reviewing the latest game releases, video game consoles,

OOOPS!!!!

Ronique Phillips OUR FRONT PAGE ARTICLE, ‘Chester Cottage Youth Killed’, reported Ronique ‘Wasso’ Phillips as being 20 years old at the time of his death. We can now correctly state that he was, in fact, 23 years old at the time of his death, and that he died on May 23, 2015 not May 22, 2015.

His family can rest assured that there was no ill-intent on our part.

handhelds, PCs and smartphones on channel 417, available in the Entertainment Zone optional digital package.

The Outdoor Sport Channel on channel 469, located in the Fans Central optional digital package, will be

showcasing International Football, Car Racing, Basketball, Boxing, Golf, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, the latest in sporting news and much more.

In addition to these two mentioned video channels, FLOW also

announces the availability of another two local radio stations via their video platforms - BOOM FM 106.9 FM and XTREME FM104.3.

These radio channels will now be carried on channels 786 and 783 respectively.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 15.

14. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Queen De Yonté - set to make a difference

by DAYLE DA SILVA

Miss Mustique Company De Yonté Mayers outshowed seven other contestants to capture the coveted Miss SVG 2015 title.

DE YONTÉ MAYERS, Miss Mustique Co. Ltd., says that she would like to make a difference during her reign as Miss SVG 2015.

“Because I do realise that a lot of people look up to me as a role model, (though) that is sort of scary and can be a bit daunting. But I know that I do want to make a difference, and I want people to remember me for just not having won the Miss SVG, but for making a difference,” Mayers told THE VINCENTIAN. The 19-year-old swept the major categories at last Saturday night’s Miss SVG Show at the Victoria Park.

She, however, admits that the reality of her performance has not fully sunk in.

Life as the nation’s top beauty queen may take some getting used to, she said, as her life has significantly changed in the few days since the show.

She recalled her visit to her hometown of Victoria Village last Sunday evening, and the commendations she received

July 3. She is aware that people believe that she has what it takes to bring home the Miss Carival crown, and she is up to the challenge.

“I hate disappointing people, so I am going to work very hard towards bringing it home,” Mayers assured.

Based on her performance last Saturday, many may be of the opinion that she has done this sort of thing before -- but this was her first pageant.

She confessed to being “a bit nervous at first,” but gained confidence as the show went on.

“The fact that I didn’t have to speak again until the interview section of the show, and through the interview, it helped to maintain composure by remaining focused on the person asking the question. I didn’t have to look at the crowd,” she explained.

The winning talent

An emotional De Yonté Mayers could not hold back tears after being announced the winner of Miss SVG 2015. Here she is pictured being crowned by Miss SVG 2014, Shadeisha George. from members in her community.

“The most major change is the fact that people keep stopping me in the streets to De Yonté also the Swimwwear segment of the show. congratulate me, and it is a bit unbelievable, because last week, I was just De Yonté Mayers; this week, I am Miss SVG 2015, and I realise that a lot of people have a lot of confidence in me.”

Her focus is now on the Miss Carival pageant, Mayers also dominated in the Best Talent category. scheduled for

comfort me.”

What’s next She will be taking up her scholarship, the top prize, in September 2016.

She intends to attend the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, where she will be pursuing studies in medicine.

But before that, she and her team will be discussing her strategy for the Miss Carival pageant, and she promises to give the patrons at that show, another stunning presentation.

Mayers’ top class performance meant that Vickeish Charles (Miss Lotto), had to settle for the second spot (1st Runner-up), and Anika Robinson (Miss LIME) was judged third (2nd Runner-up).

The other contestants on the night included Precious Abraham (Miss French Veranduh), Mellcia Antoine (Miss Metrocint General Insurance), Chantal Dells (Miss Agriculture Input Warehouse), Deshia Murray (Miss Play 4) and Donna Nelson (Miss Dipcon Engineering Ltd).

Mayers captivated the audience with her dramatic portrayal L-R: Miss French Verandah, Precious Abraham; Miss Metrocint General Insurance Co. Ltd, Melecia Antoine; 1st of the life of national hero, Runner-Up, Mss Lotto, Vickeish Charles; Miss Agricultural Input Warehouse, Chantal Dells; Miss SVG 2015, De Joseph Chatoyer, as her talent Yonté Mayers; Miss Dipcon Engineering, Donna Nelson; 2nd Runner-Up, Miss LIME, Anika Robinson; and Miss presentation.

Play Four, Desha Murray.

“When we were brainstorming for talent, I knew I wanted to use shadows, because I wanted to do something that had not been done before on the Vincentian stage,” she said.

“I am a member of the La Gracia Dance Company, and Maxine Browne has a genuine love for everything Garifuna, so we decided to go with the GarifuRight: Contestants in na story,” Mayers continued. swimwear. This is the first She discussed the trick to year that contestants what appeared to be a well-coorwore a two-piece bathing dinated, flawless performance, suit...stepping away from saying that she sneaked glances the normal one-piece. at the screen a few times.

“I had to. We put a lot of practice into it, to make sure I was where I needed to be, or else it would not have had the sort of impact that it did,” she said.

But despite her seeming confidence, Mayers said that she never expected to be crowned Miss SVG -moreso to make a clean sweep of the Swimwear, Talent, Evening Wear, Interview and Photogenic categories.

“I went backstage and told my chaperone that I did not do well, every time…every It was a diverse crowd which turned out to view the time and she had to Miss SVG 2015 show at Victoria Park last Saturday.

V

16. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Fisherman’s Day winners with their prizes awarded by LIME.

LIME rewards winners WINNERS OF THE FISH FEST and other preFisherman’s Man Day LIME-sponsored events, turned up at LIME headquarters last week to collect their prizes.

Prizes handed out included scuba diving tanks, seine nets, credit vouchers, tough phones, digital waterproof speaker systems, 4G tablets and free data.

Also rewarded last week were winners in the LIME- sponsored lionfish derby, one of the pre-Fisherman’s Day events.

These included Team Serenity Dive, who captured first place in the scuba category, and who won, among other things, a smart phone from LIME. In the free dive category, Rozardo Myers came out on top, and

won himself a 4G tablet from LIME. LIME was a major sponsor of the Fish Fest activities staged in various fishing communities across the state, and which featured the overwhelmingly popular Man versus Seafood Challenge.

In a release to the media this week, LIME extended congratulations to all the fisher folk, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for staging yet another successful Fisherman’s Day programme, and moreso for their role in ensuring the development of the vital fisheries sector.

Rozardo Myers (right) collects his prize for winning the free dive category of the lionfish derby.

A member of Team Serenity Dive (right) collects his prize from a LIME rep.

Care and treatment of potted plants cut above a node. Nodes are slight bulges in the stems of a plant out of which leaves appear.

PRUNING is referred to as the Indoor plants don’t require pruning scientific removal of parts of a plant as often as outdoor plants, as their in order to: relieve the burden on growth is slower. the remaining parts of a plant; Happy planting. Look out for our cut out diseased or broken parts; national exhibition 24th and 25th increase or prevent the production of fruit or flowers; encourage growth into October, 2015. a particular shape or form, or control Presented by the SVG Horticultural growth.

Society In pruning indoor plants, always

Pruning

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 17.

News

Farmers not collecting their moneys

Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA OF THE 757 FARMERS eligible to receive cess payments, 466 have collected payments, and 291 are yet to collect. And, according to Minister of Agriculture, Saboto Caesar, the moneys allocated to this payment are still available.

The Minister provided that information while responding to a question during last week Thursday’s Sitting of the House of Assembly.

The question had been posed by MP for North Leeward, Roland Matthews, who had asked for an explanation of how an amount of EC$750,000 borrowed from the National Insurance Services (NIS) for payments to farmers, was distributed.

The question followed a statement made by Leader of the Opposition, Arnhim Eustace, at a rally in Sion Hill on May 5, that some of the money from the EC$750,000 borrowed, was not paid to farmers.

But Caesar said in his response, that EC$194,000 of the total sum of EC$231,016 was collected by farmers for outstanding cess payments. Some farmers were owed as little as $70.00, the Minister revealed.

He said that announcements were made in all forms of media advising farmers to come and receive their

According to the Minister Of Agriculture, it’s not a matter of payments not being made, but rather that farmers were not coming to collect. payments, which were being made at the Ministry of Agriculture in Kingstown, in Mesopotamia, Lauders, Colonairie, Georgetown and at WINFA’s office.

“It is not an issue that the moneys are not there; persons have not come to collect payments,” Caesar said.

The money owing to farmers, according to WINFA records, was for a period from 2009 to 2013, and Caesar provided some detail of how the money was distributed: in 2009, EC$7,800 was allocated, but only EC$2,000 was collected; in 2010 EC$68,000 allocated, EC$42,000 collected; 2011 - EC$16,000 allocated, EC$14,000 collected; 2012 - EC$13,000 allocated, EC$11,000 collected, and in 2013 - EC$124,000 allocated and EC$122,000 collected.

The sum of money in question was borrowed from the NIS following the

passage of Hurricane Tomas in 2010 when, according to Caesar, the operations of WINFA were severely affected after production levels fell.

The government, before going to Parliament, made payments to assist WINFA with salaries and other expenses; however, it was subsequently decided to procure a loan from the NIS, to make one payment to cover outstanding expenses.

The entire sum was made available, and the payments, according to Caesar, were made as follows: moneys owed for crediting of boxes EC$245,000; salaries and wages - EC$75,000; moneys owed to the Input Warehouse - EC$16,000; CTAWU - EC$31,000; WINCROP - EC$30,000; money owed to accounting firm KDLT - EC$3,750, and moneys owed to farmers for payment from purchase of bananas, EC$55,000.

Distrust in fishing MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE and Fisheries, Saboto Caesar, has spoken out against what he termed the distrust between investors and boat operators, saying that the time has come for greater equity among all involved in the fishing sector.

Speaking at last week Monday’s ‘Fisherman’s Day’ celebrations, Caesar made the call for equity in the distribution of earnings among boat owners, fishermen and vendors.

“There must be fairness. The absence of fairness breeds distrust,” Caesar said.

He made the remark

and reiterated that there was a high level of distrust between investors and boat operators, and he cautioned individuals, saying that unless they intended to operate a fishing vessel on their own, they ought not to purchase one.

Caesar’s presentation on Monday was centred around ways to improve the fishing sector, to get fisher folk to take their trade seriously and to conduct it as a business.

The issue of distrust, according to Caesar, needed to be addressed, as it contributes to the relatively slow growth of the fishing sub-sector.

Saboto Caesar, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, cited the distrust among stakeholders as a major detriment to the growth of the fishing subsector.

V

18. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

A Book Exhibition Âfor the first timeÊ The driving force behind this service is Vincentian born author Dr. Edgar ‘Doc’ Adams.

PERSONS desirous of ‘Doc’ Adams is the author of some finding information on 15 publications, all of which can be genuine Vincentian found among the thousands of history and/or aspects publications on display during work of Caribbean folklore days at the Cruise Ship Terminal. do not have far to go.

His most recent work, published There is a one-stop this year and entitled ‘The African shop that provides Presence and Influence on the cultural one of the widest traditions of St. Vincent and the range of such Grenadines’ is included in the display.

Dr. Edgar information right But this week and continuing for ‘Doc’ Adams some time from Monday to Saturday, highlights one here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. from 10am to 5pm, is a particular of the That stop is at R focus on Vincentian icons Norma hundreds of & M Adams Book Keizer (Educator), Dr. Earle Kirby publications Centre, located in (Historian and Archaeologist), Pat on display, as Prescod (Musician) and Ellsworth he encouraged the Cruise Ship ‘Shake’ Keane (Musician and Poet).

Vincentians to Terminal in the eastern end of The particular focus began this find out more capital city week, and ‘Doc’ Adams describes the about their Kingstown. effort as one aimed at arousing heritage.

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

interest in literary works, and has as its theme: ‘Changing human thoughts and ambition; one book at a time’.

‘Doc’ Adams, a cultural icon himself, one who has represented this country at Carifesta, twice in Cuba and once in Guyana, is encouraging Vincentians to find out more about their Vincentian heritage.

Not only is there information The Poets’ Corner, just one of the ‘corners available on the persons in focus, of interests’ to be found at the R & M but there is also information on Adams Book Centre.

La Soufriere Volcano and the Botanical Gardens, which is said, with a tone of accomplishment, marking its 250th anniversary this as he reiterated his hope that persons year. will see the usefulness in visiting the Magazines, encyclopaediae, and display, even if it is to see the historic pieces like ‘Slave migration in voluminous amount of work authored the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade’, are

by Vincentians. also highlighted.

The special book display will “It is the first time anything like continue into the 2015/16 cruise visitor this has ever been done,” ‘Doc’ Adams season.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 19.

ST. CLAIR INVESTMENTS LIMITED (IN RECEIVERSHIP) Opportunity to purchase a 3 (three) floor commercial building in the heart of Kingstown, St. Vincent The Receiver Managers of St. Clair Investments Limited, Marcus Wide and David Holukoff, are currently marketing for sale this highly attractive investment opportunity located in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The property is situated on the corner of Melville and Grenville streets in the capital Kingstown, on approximately 2,760 sq.ft of land.

The building is currently set up to operate a restaurant kitchen with dining room on the ground floor, with further dining facilities on part of the first floor. The remainder of the first floor is office space. The third level of the building is attic space which previously housed a night club.

Offers regarding St. Clair Investments Limited – In Receivership by sealed bid to be received on or before the 16th June, 2015 at 4:00pm and must be addressed to: Joint Receivers of St. Clair Investments Limited Attention: David Holukoff Grant Thornton (British Virgin Islands) Limited P.O. Box 4259, 171 Main Street The Barracks, Road Town Tortola, British Virgin Islands For further information please contact the Receiver Manager's office at: +1 (284) 494 6162 or chris.macdonald@uk.gt.com

V

20. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Drug use splitting the family Dear George MY 19-YEAR-OLD STEPSON is on hard drugs, and this is causing the family to fall apart bit by bit.

I found out that he has been using since he was 16 years and, thanks to my wife, I never knew about it. His school had called on two separate occasions requesting that she visit to discuss his drug use. She never went.

I am on the sea 9 months at a time, and that is why I never knew anything. She kept this a secret from me and, of course, my stepson was not going to tell me.

Right now, he is destroying everything he can get his hands on in the home, and selling whatever he can to get his drugs.

I suggested to my wife that we seek help for him, but she refuses, saying “people would think my son is on drugs”, and that she is a failure. She does not even want me to talk to her about his drug use, and would get very mad at me for bringing the subject up.

All of this is creating a rift between us both, and it may very well cost us our marriage. I do not want that to happen, but

I am not going to live with a drug user who is hell-bent on destroying my home and my marriage.

Upset Dear Upset, It is not going to help anyone to keep this matter on the down low.

Your wife should immediately face up to the situation and take your advice about getting the necessary help for your son. This is not the time to worry about what others would think, but rather the time to be supportive of her son.

Clearly, this situation was left unchecked, and should have been handled at the time of discovery. That said, you have got to keep on being supportive of your wife, and try not to blame her for letting the situation get out of hand.

Let your wife know that you love your stepson as much as she does, and that his well-being is

important to you as it is to her, and that is why both of you ought to reach out for help. If she recognises and accepts that you are part of the

help team, she might be more inclined and encouraged to do what is necessary.

George

Avoid same-sex distractions Dear George, I AM 15 YEARS OLD and attend a secondary school in Kingstown. A couple of weeks ago, some of my girlfriends at school gave me some DVDs (porn) to watch, and since doing so, I have not been able to get the scenes out of my mind. They were all with women doing each other. I watched them all, and now I have started wondering what it would be like to try what I saw.

I returned the DVDs, and my girlfriends asked me what I thought of them. I told them that I won’t mind trying out a thing or two, but wasn’t so sure. They told me that they were doing that for two years now, and that they had wanted to recruit me, so that’s why they shared the DVDs with me.

I told them I am not so sure, because someone told me once that anytime a woman goes with another woman, she would never go back to being with a man. I want to know if that is true, and also what should I do about the feelings I am starting to

develop. I am just curious. Should I at least try this out one time with my friends to satisfy my curiosity?

Confused Dear Confused, It is better to feed your mind with things that are positive. You are at a stage now where you need to make use of every opportunity to focus on things that will give you a more than fighting chance to make something of yourself. Your education should take priority at this stage of your life. You should avoid all distractions such as what your friends are offering.

Let your friends know that, while you may not be able to stop them from engaging in their low-keyed practices, you would rather not join them. There is more than enough time after your schooling is complete, to be curious; but always remember that curiosity is said to have killed the cat.

George

You deserve to know a gun, and if it was licensed. I am also asking myself whether he is who DURING ONE of my boyfriend’s visits he said he is, and if he has another life which I did not know about. Since to my place, he asked me to wash some dirty clothes which he had in his that time, I have become very uneasy bag. But before he could give them to around him, and he is beginning to notice. The tension is killing me, and me, he fell asleep on my bed. I went it is affecting our relationship. to his bag to get the clothes, and it was in going through the bag that I Scared discovered a hand gun. I quickly put everything back as they were, and Dear Scared, after he woke up, he never remembered to give me the clothes, The best thing to do is to discuss and I did not remind him either.

I am wondering why he would want the subject with your boyfriend, and ask him all the questions you have just asked. If he is in fact carrying an unlicensed firearm, then you ought to find out the reason why, and encourage him to get rid of it.

You need to find out more about your boyfriend, so that you can make your own determination about if he is the man you need, whether you two match. Confront him and let him tell you all that you need to know.

You should always keep in mind that you reserve the right to terminate the relationship if your suspicions about him are confirmed.

Dear George,

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Look into intellectual and physical games that will test your abilities. Don't allow your personal problems to interfere with your professionalism. Try to put your money away for a rainy day.

You can accomplish a lot if you direct your thoughts toward starting your own small business on the side.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) If you address those in a position to grant you favors you should get the support you require. Be careful not to reveal private information. Use your head and do things to your liking. Don't count on others to cover up for your shortcomings.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) A lot has changed and so have you. Get busy putting your place in order. Be careful not to hurt someone's feelings.

Find out all the facts before you jump to conclusions.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Your financial situation may be draining and it's time to make some serious changes. You can help sort out problems that friends are facing. Try not to get backed into corners. Be supportive in order to avoid confrontations.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your dynamic, determined approach will win favors as well as a helping hand.

You should get out and meet new people this week. Try to visit a country that excites you. Your own small business on the side sounds pretty lucrative.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Attempt to face key issues with lovers or problems could escalate. You can dazzle members of the opposite sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. Don't be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. You should get involved with activities that can be enjoyed by both young and old alike.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You should want to feel good about

yourself and your goals. You'll be able to discuss your ambitions with your mate.

Don't let others bully you into agreeing with them. Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will be able to talk to your lover about future goals and perhaps make plans for the two of you to take a vacation. You must be careful not to reveal secr-ets or get involved in gossip.

Taking on too much won't help the situation. Underhandedness regarding legal matters or contracts must be counteracted.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Your ability to dazzle others with your unique and innovative ideas will attract attention. Your fun loving approach will be admired and appreciated by others.

You will need to take a look at the renovations that are necessary and try to find the cheapest way to get things done.

Your colorful conversation may attract new mates.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will find your personal partner taxing this week. Disruptions may set you back, but you're strong, and in the end the choices you make will be favorable.

Children may be demanding, and entertainment could cost a lot more than you can really afford. Travel will be in your best interest regardless of whether it is business or pleasure.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) Avoid getting trapped in internal disputes. You will find yourself tied to the phone. Don't let your partner goad you into wearing your heart on your sleeve.

You may want to stay in the background this week.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Do not let them blow situations out of proportion. Be prepared to counteract the damage that adversaries are about to create. You could experience delays in shipments or mail, and should be careful while traveling. Try to have patience and refrain from being judgmental.

ACROSS

45. Tablelands 49. Whoopi 1.Jolson and Golberg Gore movie 4. “Which (3 wds.) thing?”

54. Edge 9. Plunder 55. Holy image 12. Vintage auto 56. Edge 13. German car 57. Becomes 14. Singer Jenny older 15. Carousels 58. Incline (hyph.)

59. Football 18. Knitter’s unit tallies 19. NYC summer (abbr.) setting 20. Stew meat DOWN 23. Bride’s portion 1.Supplies 27. Bistro weapons 30. Inning’s six 2. Onion 32. Modern relative (prefix) 3. Hopping mad 33. Join 4. Actor John 34. Gp. once 5. Bear __ headed by 6. Busy activity Heston 7. Make weary 35. Footnote 8. Dwarf planet abbr.

9. “__ Tin Tin” 36. Public TV 10. Terminate letters 11. Gridiron 37. Believe measures 38. Baby word (abbr.)

39. No longer 16. Steel the fashion fastener 41. Transaction 17. Betting lines 43. Double curve 21. Top-drawer

(2 wds.)

22. Enticed 24. Sheryl Swoopes’s League (abbr.)

25. Actor Tim (“WKRP”) 26. “Star Wars” creature 27. “Andy __” 28. Swedish pop group 29. To-do 31. Humble 35. Sluggard 37. Bandleader Arnaz 40. Looks like

42. Change 44. Bad mood 46. Deposit of sediment 47. Sour 48. Drains energy 49. Business-

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 21.

person’s deg.

50. Evita’s country (abbr.)

51. Expire 52. Heroic pilot 53. Sun. follower

V

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Zeshain Adams, 21 years old, graduate of the SVG Community College, appearing as Miss Chateaubelair.

Phylicia Whitney Ashton, 18 years old, student of the SVG Community College, appearing as Miss Rose Hall.

Melony Woods, 17 years old, graduate of the Petit Bordel Secondary School, appearing as Miss Fitz Hughes.

Lanesha John, 17 years old, student of the Girls’ High School, appearing as Miss Layou.

Camille Cammiasha Myers, 18 years old, student of the SVG Community College, appearing as Miss Questelles.

Brean Gloster, 21 years old, graduate of the Buccament Bay Secondary School, appearing as Miss Barrouallie.

Six vying for Miss Leeward title SIX CONTESTANTS will vie for the title of Miss Leeward 2015 tonight, Friday 5th June, at the Petit Bordel Hard court.

Participation in the show, one of several events put on by the North Leeward Sports Association for Carnival 2015, has been expanded this year to include contestants from South Leeward, Central Leeward and North Leeward.

THE VINCENTIAN is pleased to offer a glimpse of the contestants.

(Left to Right): Handing-over ceremony involved Sophia Searles – Sales and Promotion Assistant (ECBI), Rachel Haslam- Marketing Manager (ECGC), Lorne Holder- Sales and Promotions Supervisor(ECBI), Alicia Sardine – CBA Representative, Hugh Ragguette - CBA Representative.

Ju-C, CBA combine for Vincy Mas CARNIVAL enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that Ju-C, which once enjoyed the status of being ‘The Official Soft Drink of Vincy Mas’, is returning to active involvement in Vincy Mas. An official announcement from East Caribbean Bottlers Inc., (ECBI), bottlers of Ju-C, has disclosed that that company has partnered with the Carnival Bands Association (CBA) to ensure that the brand has a place, once again, in this country’s premier cultural festival.

Not only was ECBI involved in the CBA’s ‘Carnival Blast’ which showcased Mas bands 2015 presentations on May 23 at Victoria Park, but ECBI has gone one step further with a hand of assistance to mas bands.

On 1 June 2015, ECBI handed over 300 cases of products, valued at $9,000, to the Carnival Bands Association, to be distributed to the 13 mas bands.

Marketing Manager, ECBI, Mrs Rachel Haslam, stated that ECBI is very pleased to rekindle the association that Ju-C has had with Vincy Carnival for over 50 years, and looks forward to playing a bigger role as the company regains its foothold in the Vincentian market.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 23.

More schools join volleyball effort

French legend for Guinness Street Football Final

THE GUINNESS STREET FOOTBALL Challenge Caribbean finals, set to take place on June 27-28, will see a special VOLLEYBALL HERE has Union Island,” Mc appearance by received a spike, with Kay said.

Guinness ‘Made more schools getting Accepting that of More’ involved in the getting persons at ambassador and programme. a younger age is former French Students from critical, Mc Kay international nineteen schools — both added, “We need to football star, primary and secondary - build a base and Marcel Desailly. are currently engaged in get the kids to love Desailly is learning the the game.” well-known as a Marcel Desailly, renowned fundamentals of the Mc Kay is member of the French footballer, will be the sport. pleased that the enigmatic honoured guest at the 2015 And overseeing that young students are French football Guinnss Street Football developmental effort warming to the sport, Students of the team which won Challenge in Jamaica. aimed at widening and and explained that they Kingstown Preparatory FIFA World Cup strengthening the base of are using a “modified School getting down to in 1998, as well the sport, is Canadian version of Volleyball,” to the fundamentals of as the European Championship in 2000.

Sean Mc Kay. He does ensure that the basics He was also included in 2004 as one of the volleyball. so under the auspices of are mastered and more world’s greatest living players on the ‘FIFA 100’ list St Vincent and the of notable footballers, compiled by Brazilian football so, enjoy what they are Inset: Visiting volleyball legend, Pele.

Grenadines Volleyball doing. coach- Sean Mc Kay. Speaking ahead of his visit here, Desailly Association and National “At the end, we will be commented on the brilliant initiative by Guinness to Olympic Committee of St hosting a primary structure” which, he the national junior incorporate players, community members and lovers Vincent and the schools’ volleyball said, would ensure teams, preparing them of Guinness into one event.

Grenadines. festival ...It will be a sort for their competitions in continuity when he has “Whether you are playing, supporting your Mc Kay, nearing the of competition, but we left.

July. community or just coming out to enjoy the end of his four-month would not be And one of his ‘lasting’ He quipped that “With entertainment, this is a fantastic initiative of assignment, is satisfied emphasising on delights so far has been some of them doing Guinness that has been growing year after year and with his work thus far. competition per se, but what he described as the exams, … I have had to something I’m so delighted to be involved in.”

“Things have gone having them enjoy the willingness and reschedule practice “I can’t wait to see what the Caribbean has to pretty well ... I have sport,” Mc Kay eagerness of many of the sessions with them.” offer. Come support your team, your community and visited a lot of schools on underscored. players with whom he At another level, Mc enjoy Guinness responsibly,” he added. the Windward side, on The Canadian has also Kay is assisting the local has come into contact, to Desailly will be joined by five times Guinness the Leeward in been working with learn new things about volleyball authorities in World Record Holder and world renowned Kingstown and also on communities and with the sport. setting up “a national professional football freestyler, Daniel Cutting.

Now in its fifth year, the Guinness Street Football Challenge represents a fusion of the passion for football and entertainment at the grass-roots level, where consumers across the Caribbean YEARS OF TOILING in track status when he sported his when he performed dual tasks and field‘s local and regional ITO badge at last weekend’s are given a chance to show in true as an athlete and as an vineyards, have paid off for staging of the national club Guinness style, how they are ‘Made of official at the school’s interWoodrow ‘Killy’ Williams. championships at the Arnos More’. house meets.

Having been elevated to an Vale Playing Field.

Gareth Geddes, Sales & Marketing He made his regional debut International Technical He was quick to point out Manager Guinness Caribbean & as a technical official in 1989, Official (ITO) status, Williams that he is the lone ITO, who Central America, noted that over the at the Junior Carifta Games is now eligible to officiate in comes from a country without in Barbados. last few months, countries across the track and field meets in the a national stadium, including Caribbean have seen tremendous bouts He has been a regular North America, Central a track. of scrimmage-style skill and play, as official at subsequent Carifta America and Caribbean “My situation is unique, as Games, with his most recent country finalists emerge from the (NACAC) region.

I am the only ITO whose battles between hundreds of teams. being the 2015 edition at the His first assignment will be The challenge regional final comes country does not have a track, Kim Collins Stadium in Bird at the NACAC senior to the streets of Kingston, Jamaica, Championships in Costa Rica, and as part of my knowledge Rock, St Kitts. and will see ten national champions base, I have to know the Williams said that he has in August this year. vie for the coveted title of Guinness dimensions of the track as also lent his expertise at the “What I have achieved is a Street Football Champion. testimony of all the work that well as the field events with a Windward Islands Schools’ Participating countries in the final high degree of competence,” I have put in over the years.

Games. are, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, It has now paid off, and I am Williams outlined.

Added to his officiating Guyana, St. Vincent and the Williams disclosed that his acumen, Williams is a happy to have attained such Woodrow ‘Killy’ Williams Grenadines, St. Lucia, Dominica, St. status,” Williams commented. journey in officiating began at certified lecturer for technical hard at work at what he Kitts, Aruba, newcomers Haiti and Vincentians got a glimpse the St Martin’s Secondary officials, and diploma coach does best, and sporting his host Jamaica. of Williams’ new international School in the early 1970s, for the jumps disciplines.

Williams set for international duty

ITO accreditation.

V

24. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Saints take bragging rights: End second

by GLENFORD PRESCOTT GUARDIAN GENERAL SAINTS will end the season with some degree of bragging rights, even though their wait for a first national Premier Division/First Division title

Rolando Wright, 7/47 for Saints, proved to be quite side of the defending Champions.

will move well past three decades.

Last weekend, they ended their season by taking first innings points from defending champions, Team Rivals at the Sion Hill Playing Field, having also had the better of former champions, Victors ONE, Lime Radcliffe and News Spartans during the course of the season.

Guardian General Saints ended the season with 123 points to champions-elect Team Rivals’ 135 and were forced, for the second year, to settle for the runners up spot.

Long-serving manager of Guardian General Saints, Foster Huggins, was understandably disappointed with his team not being champions of 2015, and attributed this to their fielding.

‘We should have won this year because, in my opinion, we played better than last year, and it was down to our own fault, with our poor catching especially in matches with Radcliffe and ASCO”, a thorn in the Huggins said.

Huggins spoke of his team being

John, Mc Lean axed from Windwards panel

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Nixon Mc Lean made room for another Vincentian.

ST. VINCENT AND THE Grenadines’ Lance John and Nixon Mc Lean were both axed as Windward Islands selectors at various levels of the sub-regional structure.

Following a meeting of the Windwards Cricket Board last week, the report is that John, who was appointed a senior selector two years ago, was not retained.

He has been replaced by former Windward Islands and Grenada middle-order batsman, Steve Mahon.

The panel is now made up of St. Lucia’s Keith Charlery, Mohan of Grenada, with Charles Walters of Dominica the chairman.

John said he was expecting to be replaced, owing to his frank and straightforward manner,

but “feels no bitterness towards anyone.”

He is satisfied that he leaves with his head held high, having been honest in his dealings.

In the case of Nixon Mc Lean, he was dropped from the U 19 panel of selectors.

McLean’s Lance John, (right) pictured in placed was conversation with Delorn taken by Johnson, said he is satuisfied that Vincentian he did his job honestly.

Roland Wilkinson who is chairman of the local senior selection panel.

Reports say that Elson Crick, first VP of the SVG Cricket Association, was re-elected unopposed as Vice President of the Windwards Cricket Board, with President Emmanuel Nanthan also being returned unopposed.

Crick and St. Lucia’s Julian Charles were elected as directors to the WICB. Grenada’s president, Dwain Gill, and SVG’s Kishore Shallow were elected as alternate directors.

Reports say that the meeting also looked at the Windward Islands Volcanoes Franchise in the Professional Cricket League —PCL- in review and the future plans.

According to decisions taken, SVG will host the senior Windwards tournament in August, ahead of the West Indies PCL draft, which is set to take place at the end of that month.

And SVG and Grenada will play together in the West Indies female 50 overs tournament in Trinidad on August 3rd. The teams are expected to play a three-match series in Grenada, tentatively scheduled from the 16 - 20 July, after which the joint team will be selected.

in good positions but squandering the opportunity to press home for outright wins through a series of missed chances.

In last weekend’s match, Guardian General Saints won the toss and batted first, and recovered from 12/2, thanks to a third-wicket partnership of 110 by Rickford Walker and Romel Currency, who batted with assurance on a slow but turning pitch.

The pair looked to have put their team in the ascendancy, but another Deighton embarrassing middle-order collapse Butler would have thought turned that postion around.

Currency, 50, including two fours that with his and 30 singles, was first to go when 5/65, he had set his team, he gave veteran Orlanzo Jackson a Team Rivals, return catch. Jeron John (0) went on a path to three runs later.

Walker went at 147/5 for a well- victory. played 86, his highest score of the season. He counted four fours and two sixes.

Guardian General Saints then lost 3/9 to be 156/7.

They added some important runs in the lower order, but suffered a further collapse in losing 3/8 to be all out for 196.

Left-arm spinner Deighton Butler, 5/65, and Jackson, 3/42, and Roneil Jeffrey, 2/6, shared the wickets.

Team Rivals began their innings in disastrous fashion when Asif Hooper, out of state for most of the season, was bowled by left-arm spinner Rolando Wright without a run on the board. They ended the day 6/1.

On resumption, Team Rivals found the bowling of Wright too good and lost wickets steadily, being 80/6 at one stage. They rallied, with the help of a series of spilled chances, to 161, with Wright taking 7/47 and Currency 3/39, to give spinners 18 of the 20 wickets in the match.

The Umpires, at the request of the captains, called off the match upon the completion of the innings of Team Rivals.

Lynch, Hoyte silence Rising Stars A GOOD allround effort from Samantha Lynch, and a sound innings from national player Clea Hoyte were the highlights of United Survivors’ dominance, as they defeated Rising Stars by 10 wickets in Clea Hoyte was the RBTT Bank Women’s unbeaten on 43.

National T20 cricket competition on the weekend.

The game, played at the Stubbs Playing Field, saw Rising Stars batting first and being dismissed for 88 in 17.3 overs. National allrounder Japhina Joseph topscored with 25 and Samantha Caine contributed 18. Samantha Lynch took 2 for 13 and Kimon Homer grabbed 3 for 14 bowling for United Survivors.

United Survivors, in pursuit of 89 for victory, raced to 92 off 10.3 overs without losing a wicket. Samantha Lynch backed up her bowling effort with a topscore of 45 not out, with support from Clea Hoyte who was also Samantha Lynch unbeaten on 43. hit 45 not out and I.B.A.ALLEN took 2 for 13.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 25.

Sports

Coach Huggins confident of “Vincy Heat” win they have not been able to use to their advantage GUYANA 3, Windwards Islands Selection 8. That was enough. the score in a friendly match between the Guyana Huggins said he was senior national team, which was making a trek through extremely happy with the the Eastern Caribbean, and team captain by SVG’s preparations even though “Ruddy” Boucher, and selected at the completion of some players “have some the 1971/72 Windward Islands tournament little niggles,” but, according That encounter remained the only one for years, to him, the medical team do until recent times when SVG would take on the not see these much of a Coach Cornelius team from the South American continent in bother.

Caribbean football competition. The results have The coach welcomed three Huggins is a been mixed with both teams posting victories along overseas-based this week, to confident man. the way. the training squad: Brad The two teams will meet on Wednesday in a Miguel a 21-year-old striker who plays in the lower second round CONCACAF Zone 2018 World Cup leagues in the UK; 23-year-old defender JamieQualifier at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, with the Jardine Lofthouse-Smith who is currently attending second leg scheduled for four days later in Guyana. Stetson Hatters on a football scholarship in the As of May 2015, the Vincentians are currently USA; and Gavin James, a 26-year- old striker who ranked 110 by while their opponents are at 163. plays with Flackwell Heath also in the lower SVG, known as ‘Vincy Heat’, are coming off some League in the UK. good results recently after storming to the 2015 Huggins said it was great to see players with senior Windward Islands title with a maximum six connection to SVG wanting to play for the country, points. but warned that they will not just walk into the The Under 23 also posted good results by beating team; they will have to fight for a place. their Dominican counterparts over two legs in Olympic Qualifiers, 5-0 on aggregate.

Huggins expressed confidence in his team even as Despite collecting these victories the teams were he admitted not having any recent information on guilty of squandering a number of opportunities, a the Guyana team. concern to head coach, Corneilius Huggins.

‘Our Technical Director, Keith Ollivierre saw a “Yes we missed a lot of easy chances and we are few matches with the Guyanese a while back but definitely working on that area,” he said after that was all the information we have, even though Tuesday’s training session at the Arnos Vale we have heard that they will be bringing in a Playing Field, venue of Wednesday’s match. number of overseas-based players from Europe and The former ace defender said that in addition, the even Brazil, to boost their team”, he said. team is working on the ‘dead ball’ situation, which Whereas virtually all the St Vincent squad play their club football in the Caribbean, Guyana has players with vast experience of featuring in European Leagues and also the MLS in America.

Matthew Briggs and Neil Danns famously committed to the National side in March, and made an immediate impact in the side. They will be supported by Trayon Bobb, Walter Moore and team captain Christopher Nurse, who are all currently playing overseas.

Coach Huggins still thinks he has the armoury to beat the Guyanese saying, “I believe in my guys through their skill and fitness”.

Wednesday’s match begins at 3.30 p.m.

Some members of ‘Vincy Heat’ into a skills training routine.

by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT

Reprinted from December 10, 2010

To Russia with love THE ENGLISH press and football hierarchy thereby are fuming over their early exit for the 2010 World Cup Football bid. And they seemed to have aimed their disappointment at FIFA’s vice president Jack Warner. He was supposed to have delivered three Concacaf votes to them, and there is a feeling of betrayal from Warner. They had structured their campaign years in advance, and are lamenting the tragedy that they could not foresee that Jack took them for a ride.

Perhaps the English didn’t quite appreciate the Caribbean culture. Having harangued Jack and vilified him over the years, they sought refuge in his arms and expected him to pave the way for their successful bid. Hopes rested on the powerful Trinidadian. He had established his credentials in his homeland, so much so that, even the British pampering to him helped to further his political gains. Even though there are still issues to be cleared up, as far as Jack is concerned, about his own countrymen who are still contesting claims as to their participation in the 2006 World Cup, Jack appears to be the pillar of foundation as far as the region goes for football.

He seems to be a master at his game, and no government authority will be able to get in his way. No monarchy or foundation of power can get in his way.

With no one to account to except his FIFA colleagues, the FIFa executives have shelved themselves of all political influences.

World Cup Football has become genuinely lucrative business, and the country keen on hosting will be willing to go along with FIFA’s stipulations. Because FIFA knows that, once the ball starts rolling, political interference goes out of the window.

It remains to see what transpires in the ninety or so minutes of play. And they can dictate things from behind the scenes in any and many subtle ways.

Hemispheric powers don’t matter on the field of play, and it might be surprising to know where the control goes beyond the line of vision.

Evidence of potential manipulation flashed during the 2010 event staged in South Africa, but they only turned up ripples of protest here and there.

FIFA has everything locked. And while some investigations here and there may throw some scares, and some scars, the basis of the FIFA power will remain intact and secure for some time. Especially that the host for 2022 have been chosen allowing for more time to prepare.

Perhaps FIFA will be proven correct as they seek to spread the game far and wide to strengthen its global appeal.

In that event, it will drown out claims of impropriety by FIFA executives.

Efforts are gathering momentum for the Rio escapade in 2018. Authorities there are laying the groundwork to ensure that the environment is different when the World Cup starts in Rio. It would not be business as usual for the Rio citizens, used to bouts of violence between security forces and elements linked to the underworld.

How the scenario will pan out in Russia as regards tendencies towards racism for which that country has become notorious, is left to be seen.

Then by 2022, it will be a new phenomenon with a Middle Eastern distinction.

By then, the Israeli/Palestinian conflict would reach a new landmark, and the world cup in that part of the world should gain its recognition as a symbol of peace. If it doesn’t, all hell will break loose, and there will be little hope of a passion for football, much more to life itself.

Rugby Inter-Schools Fun Day a success OVER 100 primary school students from four schools took to the Richmond Hill Playing Field for the 2nd end of term ‘Get into Rugby (GIR)’ Inter-Schools Fun Day, held on Tuesday 2nd June 2015.

Students from the Georgetown and Barrouallie Government schools, the C. W. Prescod Primary and the and St. Mary’s Roman Catholic School joined SVG Rugby Union coaches in a day full of rugby fun.

The programme was designed to celebrate the end of term, and all their hard work, during the Get into Rugby Programme.

On the actual Day, the

students played various games and interacted with one another.

According to Rugby Union’s officials, the hope is that, once the GIR has been introduced into more schools, the Fun Day format will change to include a tag rugby competition, with schools competing for a trophy.

Youth Programme Coordinator of the Rugby Union, Valarie Pelletier, commented: “The GIR programme has seen tremendous growth and improvement, with more than 500 primary school students taking part during PE classes. I am impressed and proud of how far we have come as

Students of the participating schools at the Fun Day. a Union, in such a short space of time.”

She assessed the Fun Day to be a great success, and recognized the involvement of Rugby Union members, “who gave up their time and skills to help.”

I.B.A.ALLEN

V

26. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. THE VINCENTIAN

Entertainment

Love, sax and more this weekend

PERSONS LOOKING for advice on love and marriage, are being encouraged to attend a musical production this weekend, June 6 and 7, at the Russell’s auditorium.

The production, ‘Love, sax and all that Jazz’ is presented as a collaboration between United Kingdom-based playwright Alan Charles and Vincentian musicologist Curtis Williams.

Charles outlined aspects of the production at the conference room of the outlet of Coreas Hazells last Wednesday.

He disclosed that the play was about “love, marriage, infidelity,

singleness. It is funny, informative, allows you to think and make conscious decisions.”

Charles was supported at last Wednesday’s launch by a section of Trinidad and Tobago based dramatists, who will be appearing in the weekend’s production.

Coreas Hazells Inc. is partnering with the production, and persons shopping at Coreas Hazells Inc. today, Friday, will get previews of the production and the chance to buy tickets at reduced price.

As far as Curtis Williams is

concerned, this event is the “2015 experience.”

He projected on the Vincentian input to the projection, including dramatists Leddy Dabreo, Gerald Richardson and Ronnie Richardson.

Anticipation, Williams said, has been intensifying.

Right: Playwright Alan Charles, pictured with actress Karen Richards, promises a production that is funny and informative.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 05, 2015. 27.

Classifieds

MR. LEONARDO BERTRAM SARDINE Better known DV ³/(2´

KENNETH EDWARDS YOUNG

CARLOS MICHAEL HOOPER

Cathedral of the Assumption Kingstown Wednesday 3rd June, 2015 2:00 p.m.

Layou Miracle Church Saturday 30th May, 2015 At 2:30 p.m.

Petit Bordel Park Sunday 31st May, 2015 1:00 p.m.

AUSTIN BAILEY Apostolic Faith Dorsetshire Hill Saturday 30th May, 2015 3:00 p.m

HUDSON JAMES SPROTT

EPHRAIM BYNOE

St. Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Chateaubelair Sunday 31st May, 2015 2:00 p.m.

Apostolic Faith Mission Paget Farm Sunday 31st May, 2015 2:00 p.m.

F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

A.I. REAL ESTATE Akers 3 bedrm Property on 10,478 sq.ft. - $295,000.00 - H458 Brighton 3 bedrm Property on 6,264 sq.ft. - $380,000.00 - H715

S A L E

FRIDAY,

JUNE 05, 2015

VOLUME 109, No.23

Office: 784) 457-2087/533-0431 Cell: (784)-493-9431 Office:718-807-4376 Email: donp@vincysurf.co Website: www.aisvg.com

EC$1.50

Vincentian passports not for sale

by DAYLE DA SILVA

by HAYDN HUGGINS

Some people are now asking whether Ray-Anthony Clarke (pictured), charged with marijuana possession, would be stripped of his Fisherman of the Year title. engine, trophy and other fishing supplies after copping the Fisherman of the Year Title at the 40th Fisherman’s Day prize giving ceremony, at the Calliaqua Playing Field Monday, May 25, after six weeks of competition. He and his crew landed the heaviest catch of 3,111.8 pounds.

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

Other listings are available

www.thevincentian.com

CHAMPION FISHERMAN HOOKED humble opinion, should have been reviewed before it was PROCEEDINGS to determine laid.” whether or not 2015 Fisherman of Connell described the the Year, Ray Anthony Clarke, is decision by the police to detain guilty of a possession of marijuana Clarke’s boat as “unnecessary charge, will begin on July 20, 2015 and quite draconian,” and Clarke, in the meantime, was indicated that he would seek to released on $40,000 bail when he have that issue addressed appeared at the Serious Offences immediately, and drawn to the Court on Tuesday. Up to press attention of Police time Wednesday, one of his boats, Commissioner Michael Charles.

‘Ray J’, was still in police custody “He (Clarke) is a at the Coast Guard base in hardworking fisherman with a Calliaqua. family to maintain, but clearly The Green Hill resident is we seem to enjoy pressuring our accused of having 25,651 grams own. Hopefully the police will be of marijuana with intent to guided by someone more in tune supply on June 1, 2015, at the with the law and its application Kingstown Fisheries. It is alleged regarding procedure with the that the drug was found in a boat issue at hand,” Connell said. at the Fisheries Jetty around 6 When contacted on pm, on that date.

Wednesday, the Commissioner of Clarke pleaded not guilty Police told THE VINCENTIAN when he appeared before Chief that the boat was kept in custody Magistrate Rechanne Browneas it forms part of the exhibits.

Matthias. He was granted bail on But according to Connell, condition that he surrender his “They (police) have what he travel documents, and the matter (Clarke) is alleged to have was adjourned to July 20. possessed, so why take away his Senior Prosecutor Adolphus boat by which he earns his daily Delpleche had no objection to bread?’ bail.

In relation to the case, Connell Attorney Grant Connell, who added, “If it does get to trial, Mr. had made the bail application on Israel Bruce, who has carriage of Clarke’s behalf, told THE the matter, will deal with it, if VINCENTIAN later, “The charge there is one”. brought against Clarke is Clarke was the recipient of a somewhat unfortunate and, in my 75HP Yamaha 2-stroke outboard

Twenty Hill 9 bedrm Property on 7,426 sq.ft. - $750,000.00 - H533

THE VINCENTIAN PASSPORT may have become a commodity with demand after the recent signing of a visa waiver agreement with the 26 countries making up the Schengen Zone; but the policy regarding the sale of passports remains the same, warns Foreign Minister Camillo Gonsalves.

Gonsalves issued the warning while making a presentation at the May 28th 2015 Sitting of the House of Assembly, during which he said that Dr Len Lshmael, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary at the Embassy of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), had signed the visa waiver agreement last Thursday in Brussels.

The agreement allows for Vincentians to enter any of the countries that belong in the Schengen Zone, which includes countries such as Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece and Italy, for a period of 90 days without the requirement of a visa.

And according to Gonsalves, the visa waiver agreement is part and parcel of the policy of the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines to maximize the number of reciprocal visa waiver requirements that allow Vincentian passport holders to travel throughout the world, with as little administrative difficulties as

Senator Camillo Gonsalves, Minister of Foreign Affairs, had words of warning for those who might be tempted into selling their Vincentian passport. possible.

However, Gonsalves conjectured that there were some who believed that the more countries that one can enter without the requirement of a visa, the more valuable the passport becomes, and thus it can fetch a higher price.

“I wish to take this opportunity to reiterate, in no uncertain terms, the position of the government that the Vincentian passport is not for sale,” the Foreign Minister said.

The highest office is that of citizen, and it was not something to be offered to the highest bidder, Gonsalves continued.

“This country places a very high value on citizenship. This agreement is for the benefit of citizens… and some things are priceless, and our citizenship is one of them,” he said.

Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.