THE VINCENTIAN PDF-17-06-22

FRIDAY, JUNE

17, 2022

VOLUME 116, No.24

www.thevincentian.com

Parents, be reasonable Page 4

HF&M disease Page 4

Vincymas 2k22 in gear Page 13

EC$1.50

Praedial larceny warning Page 15

BUS DRIVER CLAIMS POLICE BRUTALITY

CJea? DPP to decide Page 24

Chezeek ‘Zeek’ Gumbs is still at a loss as to why the police would have treated him in this manner.

by KENVILLE HORNE

POPULAR VAN DRIVER and soca artiste Chezeek ‘Zeek’ Gumbs was, on Tuesday, arrested and charged with littering and carrying excessive passengers in an omnibus/minivan.

But the man who made a hit with ‘Wet it up’ in 2018, has denied committing the offences and instead, claimed that he was a victim of police brutality.

Part of an incident which unfolded at Casson Hill on Tuesday that led to Gumbs’ arrest was a video recorded and shared (live) on social media.

In a first video clip, Officers of the Traffic Department appear to be struggling to close the door after putting Gumbs into the back of a police car.

In a second video clip, someone could be heard shouting that Gumbs did nothing wrong and the driver himself could be heard asking one of the officers, “What you hit me for?” to which the officer replied, “Because yo wouldn’t put in your foot.”

Gumbs states his case

Police Officers – Traffic Police – putting Gumbs into the back of the police transport.

Chezeek ‘Zeek’ Gumbs seated on the backseat of the police transport with his leg hanging out (not pictured).

In an interview on the Hot 97.1 SVG Am Mayhem morning show on Wednesday, Gumbs told the hosts that his van plied the Callaiqua-Kingstown route.

On the morning in question he was heading to Kingstown, when he realized that a police car was about five vehicles ahead of him.

On noting the police vehicle, he inquired of the conductor about the number of passengers on board. The conductor assured him that the van was not overloaded.

Continued on Page 3.

2. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

V News 3 Former LIAT workers appeal to Mottley

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . 3.

FORMER LIAT EMPLOYEES in Barbados have made another plea to Prime Minister Mia Mottley, appealing to her to use her “influential voice’ to facilitate payment to them of some $9 million in severance that is owned to then.

The appeal was made by way of a petition with just over 2,200 signatures and presented to the Clerk of Parliament on Wednesday morning, for the attention of the Prime Minister, Barbados Today reported.

“We have waited and pleaded on deaf ears for the shareholder Governments to do the right thing by seeing that we receive monies owed. Our financial situation is growing extremely dire by the

minute,” Barbados Today further reported the former LIAT workers as saying in an accompanying letter to Prime Minister Mottley.

In addition to severance payment, the dismissed workers requested indication with respect to other due entitlements including vacation pay, notice pay, final salary and pension payments.

The workers referred their Prime Minister to the case of St. Lucia where, “the St Lucian Prime Minister, a nonLIAT shareholder, who has publicly promised a severance settlement for his citizens who were employees of LIAT 1974 Ltd, under humanitarian grounds”.

Weighing in on the issue, retired former executive of the National

Union of Public Workers (NUPW) Delcia Burke told members of the media that ‘while acknowledging that shareholder governments did not have a legal obligation to pay severance to the former LIAT workers, she was hoping that morality would prevail, and the petition would also give Prime Minister Mottley a nudge to come to their rescue’ Barbados Today reported on Wednesday.

Burke went on to say “that Barbados, as the largest shareholder government, should set the example and try to negotiate a settlement, even if it is not severance pay, because the majority of these workers are still not working,” A year ago, Prime Minister Mottley

arranged for the severed airline workers to receive a one-off $2,000, followed by an advance of $2,000 per month from Government, which is to be paid back at a future date from any eventual severance settlement.

However, some of them complained that two months shy of the promised 12-month period, the payments stopped.

Burke said she understood that some of the former LIAT workers were still unable to find a new job and they were “seeing severe financial difficulties”.

Former LIAT pilot Neil Cave told reporters he was hoping that “at least on moral grounds this suffering can be put to an end”. (Primary Source: Barbados Today)

Bus driver claims police brutality Gumbs admitted that he accepted his license when it was They proceeded along the returned to him but refused to Casson Hill route when Gumbs touch the ticket. said he noticed the police vehicle “So he (the officer) took the behind them. ticket and fling it in the van. You “ …. So I pull over to let them know paper flighty… the ticket pass… he go in front of me so I come back out the van,” Gumbs pull out directly behind them. related, adding that the officer Soon as I reach the top of the said, “You are under arrest for corner, the officer on the littering.” passenger side come out first and Gumbs admitted that he stop … he say Zeek give me your protested the charge at which license you have excess point one of the offices removed passengers. I say Rick (the the key from the ignition of his officer’s name) stop yo chupidness vehicle, while another officer na man, what excess passengers I began dragging him by his waist. have here?”

When he inquired as to why he There was one passenger in the was being dragged, an officer track (the area in front of the replied, “ ‘… alyo does want play conductor). big man’, and he throw me in the Gumbs said he told that police car,” Gumbs recalled. passenger to move to the front The van driver/soca artiste seat where there was room for one related how he hit his head on the more, keeping the capacity to rim of the roof of the vehicle and eighteen. when he said that there was a He noted then that another pair of glasses on the back seat officer went to the vehicle, where he was thrown, that is returned with a book and asked when the officer who had been for his license. He was then confronting him, went to the front issued a ticket upon which he of the vehicle and returned with a requested that the officer make a baton. head count of the passengers in “He hit me one pon me knee the van. first,” said Gumbs who added that The officer ignored the request, when he inquired about why he Gumbs told the Am Mayhem was hit, the officer hit him a hosts, and instead said that he second time on the back of the had seen Gumbs drop off a knee. passenger at the bus stop opposite To make matters worse, Gumbs Richardson Petrol Station. said that even though he was now sitting on the backseat of the Use of the baton police vehicle, his leg was stuck between the door and the panel.

Continued from Frontpage.

“Yo know this man take the car door and start to slam it pon me foot and saying man move your foot, That is when Rick (an officer he had identified earlier) come round now and help me and I get to go in the vehicle now and he (the other officer) is telling me that he should ah break my foot,” Gumbs told the show’s hosts.

Recalling an earlier incident The young man insisted that he has a good relationship with the police and he was surprised by the manner in which he was treated.

He did recall, however, that he had had a previous run-in with the officer who had given him the ticket and used force against him.

The officer had accused Gumbs of ‘wanting to knock him down’ but when the matter was investigated, Gumbs came away with only a ticket.

Following the incident he was taken to the Central Police Station and slapped with charges for littering and carrying excess passengers.

“They didn’t charge me for resisting arrest, nothing…. they didn’t change me for disrespecting any police officer,” Gumbs said.

Gumbs appeared in court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to both charges.

Up to press time, this publication was awaiting a response from the RSVGPF on the matter.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley is touted as having an influential voice among former LIAT shareholder governments.

Opposition meeting pelted in Grenada THE CAMPAIGN LEADING up to the June 23 general election in Greanda was marred by an act of violence on Monday evening.

THE NEW TODAY newspaper reported on Wednesday that it was informed that “missiles were pelted at a meeting of the main opposition National Claudette Joseph – Democratic Congress was speaking on the (NDC)”. platform when the The meeting was being bottles were hurled held in the St George at her. (Credit: THE South-east constituency of NEW TODAY) Deputy Political Leader of the ruling New National Party (NNP), Finance Minister Gregory Bowen, who is challenged by Accountant Phillip Telesford.

An official of the Congress party said, according to THE NEW TODAY, that attorney-at-law, Claudette Joseph, the NDC candidate for the town of St George was speaking when the act occurred.

In a Social Media posting on Wednesday morning, Ms. Joseph said: “Just encouraging comrades to be vigilant and stay safe. Last night while I was speaking on Phillip T’s platform in SGSE, 2 Carib bottles were pelted at me.

Thankfully, both missed. The culprit ran into the night but appeared to be female. Be safe out there guys, people are getting desperate. Indeed, they are desperate.”

From all reports, it is the first such act to have marred the election campaign.

The meeting continued after a brief pause and the incident was reported to the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF).

The two major parties, the incumbent NNP, and the NDC have reportedly complained about vandalism of their electioneering paraphilia, e.g. posters and billboards, but the campaign has, for all intents and purposes, being a clean and peaceful one.

THE NEW TODAY reported that both parties are said to be confident of victory with the 75-year old Prime Minister and leader of the NNP- Dr. Keith Mitchell describing it as his last, and pleading with the electorate to “give me one for the road.”

The NDC is said to be attracting large crowds at its rallies due to the growing popularity of its leader, 44-year old attorney-at-law, Dickon Mitchell.

The NNP took all fifteen seats in the last general Election in 2018. (Primary Source: THE NEW TODAY)

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4. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Magistrate urges parents to be responsible Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS A STRONG reminder has been issued to persons who are not fulfilling their responsibility as parents and caregivers.

The call came from Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne just before ordering a 39-year-old man to pay the Court $1,500 for neglecting that responsibility, by leaving his 4year-old son alone in the dark ground floor of a house. He is to pay the fine

by September 1, or go to prison for 6 months.

“We have to be cognizant of our responsibility as parents and caregivers. They (children) did not ask to be here. We are to ensure their best interest at all time”, the Chief Magistrate told the defendant, Casmore Hepburn, a construction worker residing at Lower Questelles.

Hepburn was charged with, on June 5, 2022, at Lower Questelles, being charged with the duty of providing the necessities of life for his 4-year-old son, failed to do so, contrary to section 197 of the Criminal Code, Chapter 171 of the Revised edition of the Laws of SVG, 2009.

Hepburn pleaded guilty when he initially appeared at the Serious Offences Court on June 9, and the facts were presented, but sentencing was adjourned to Monday, to have the court hear from the Child Protection Unit at the Family Services Division in the Ministry of National Mobilisation.

Hepburn was at the time unrepresented. “You are not the best father, but neither are you the worst father”, the Chief Magistrate told him.

In outlining the aggravating factors, the Magistrate pointed out that the child was left alone in the dark, unattended for a period of time.

“Big people are afraid of the dark, much less to a 4-year-old”, Browne said.

“You have to try to get yourself in order. You have been caring for this child since he was one year and six months.

“The Court takes these things very seriously”, the Magistrate warned.

“Do what you can to ensure that the child is safe. Don’t leave him unattended, and when something happens, you are sorry”, she added.

Browne said that based on the

report from the Child Protection Officer, the child is sensible and articulate, and the Magistrate urged Hepburn to try to ensure that his son has a successful life.

Defendant known to police According to the facts presented by Prosecutor Aliston Stapleton at the Serious Offences Court, during Hepburn’s initial appearance on June 9, Corporal 45 Adrain Forde knows the defendant very well.

The Court heard that Hepburn’s 4year-old son lives with his father in two bedroom unfinished downstairs at Lower Questelles. The Court further heard that Hepburn is in the habit of going to a nearby rum shop and gambling at nights into the early morning hours, during which his son is with him. Hepburn also drinks alcohol, and at times he had to be assisted in getting home with the child.

The facts further revealed that Corporal Forde met Hepburn once in a rum shop gambling at about 5 a.m., while his son was at the same shop sleeping on two chairs.

Forde warned Hepburn about this, and took him home with the child because the defendant was too intoxicated to lift up the child and walk with him.

Police called into action

member jury had found Richardson guilty following a full trial which started on May 20 and ended May 26.

Richardson, however, pleaded guilty to the charges of firearm and ammunition possession.

The Prosecution’s case was that Mckie, a farmer in her fifties, was using a dirt track that ran from her premises into Richardson’s land, in order to get to the land where she farmed. She had been using that route for 25 years, and Richardson had moved into the area about one year prior to the incident.

According to the evidence, Richardson had threatened the woman before, and on September 6, 2019 early in the day, he had put up a no trespassing sign.

Later that day, Richardson saw McKie walking towards his land. He went into his yard, came back with a shot gun, confronted her, and shot her in the right leg. Richardson, who was a distance away from McKie when he shot her, then ran over to where she was, pushed

Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne was moved to remind parents of their responsibility to their children.

Attorney Duane Daniel who mitigated on Hepburn’s behalf on Monday, told the Court that what the facts did not include, was that Hepburn lives downstairs with the child, and the mother and sister live upstairs.

Daniel added that the facts indicated that the child was left in the dark, but from his (Daniel) instructions, there was no electricity downstairs.

Daniel referenced a statement Hepburn had given to the police, in which he said that he had just gone to the shop to buy cigarettes.

“Though what he did was not in the best interest of the child, the fact that the mother and sister were just upstairs, shows that the child was not left totally unattended”, Daniel contended. He pointed out that the

staircase to the upstairs of house is outside, and those who lived upstairs had already closed their door. But Hepburn, the lawyer added, had informed a neighbour that he was not going to be away for long.

Daniel pointed out that there was only 55 minutes between the call made by the unknown caller to the Questelles Police Station, and the time Hepburn showed up at the Station.

According to the lawyer, nicotine is an addiction, and one only has to look at someone opening a pack of cigarettes and others around bombing a smoke or cigarette from him.

“At least, he (Hepburn) is a single parent trying his best to care for him (son). He (Hepburn) has fallen short”.

Daniel noted that Hepburn had no previous convictions, was remorseful for his action, and pleaded guilty at the first available opportunity. He requested that the defendant be reprimanded and discharged, or fined.

He said Hepburn’s sister was outside the Court and was concerned.

But the Magistrate responded sharply, “Family members are to be concerned all the time”.

But Prosecutor Renrick Cato noted that the offence carries a maximum penaly of five years in prison. He asked the Court to impose a penalty which would reflect the seriousness of the crime, and deter others from committing offences of this nature.

“When the defendant arrived at the Police Station, they had to assist him because of his condition, and strong odor of alcohol that was coming from him”, Cato told the Court.

“Why would he (Hepburn) leave the child in a downstairs, no current, after 9 p.m to go buy cigarette,” Daniel questioned rhetorically.

However, Daniel rebutted that there was no evidence which contradicts Hepburn’s explanation that he went to buy cigarettes.

After taking everything into consideration, the Magistrate opted to impose a fine.

her to the ground, pointed the gun to her head, and said, “This is the right off shot now”.

However, when he attempted to discharge the firearm, something apparently went wrong, and a live bullet fell out, instead of going through the muzzle.

Two neighbours, on hearing the commotion, came out, and Richardson fled.

To date, the wound McKie sustained, is not fully healed. She has difficulty moving around, and is no longer able to farm.

Richardson, who was represented by attorney Michael Wyllie, told the Court, in his defence, that he acted in self defence during which McKie was shot by accident.

According to Richardson, McKie was armed with a cutlass, and she approached him. He went for the gun to deter her, and she raised the cutlass at him, but the gun fell from him, went off and shot the woman accidentally.

On Wednesday before sentence was

passed, Richardson was allowed to say something to the woman, during which he sought to offer an apology. He also asked the Court to impose a suspended sentence, in the form of community service for 100 days.

But McKie told him, “I done apologise to God for you already. I can’t take no apology right now. I cannot do anything right now because of you. I do everything for you. Look what you do to me, a bullet in my foot”.

After handing down the penalty, Justice Cottle told Richardson that had he pleaded guilty to all four charges, he would have earned a one third discount on each of them, which would have resulted in him having to spend much less time behind bars.

But Cottle added that if Richardson behaves himself in prison, it is possible that the prison authorities will give him a deduction.

Crown Counsel Kaylia Toney led the case for the Prosection. She was assisted

by Crown Counsel Allana Cumberbatch.

Lawyer makes strong mitigation On June 5, around 9 p.m., an unknown caller telephoned the Questelles Police Station, and reported that Hepburn had locked his son in the house, and went to take part in a street jump up.

As a result of this report, Forde and another police officer went to Hepburn’s Home at Lower Questelles where they met the door locked from outside. Forde unlocked the door and noticed that the downstairs was in total darkness. He searched the downstairs and met the child in one of the bedrooms on a bed, face down.

Forde put a light on the child, and the toddler jumped up off the bed, and began to cry, saying, “Daddy gone town, and left me alone home.

Forde packed some clothes in a bag for the child, took him to the Questelles Police Station, and contacted the Child Protection Unit.

Nineteen years for shooting farmer LESROY RICHARDSON, a 45-year-old Mt. Pleasant resident who shot a female farmer of the same address in her right leg almost three years ago, will spend the next 19 years, 11 months, and 9 days behind bars.

At the High Court Criminal Assizes on Tuesday, Richardson, who resided in the United States for 23 years, was sentenced to 19 years, 11 months, and 9 days for wounding Maxcintha ‘Mama Ny’ McKie with intent; 11 years, 11 months and 9 days for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life; 2 years, 10 months and 9 days for possession of a firearm without license; and 2 years, 10 months and 9 days for possession of ammunition without license. All four charges stemmed from the same incident on September 6, 2019.

The sentences, handed down by Justice Brian Cottle, will run concurrently.

On the wounding with intent, and possession to endanger life charges, a 9-

At about 9:55 p.m. that evening, Hepburn arrived at the Questelles Police Station, and stated that he went to buy cigarettes at a nearby shop, and when he returned he was told that the police took his son.

A strong scent of alcohol was coming from Helpburn’s breath, and he was unable to stand without support.

Forde related to Hepburn what was reported, and what the police did so far, and informed him that charges would be brought against him.

The child was taken to the Salvation Army at Pembroke, and on June 8, around 11 a.m., Hepburn returned to the Police Station, at the request of the lawmen. He was informed of the report, cautioned and interviewed. He volunteered a statement, and was subsequently charged.

When the Child Protection Officer took the stand on Monday, she told the Court that the Unit was notified of the incident, and the child was placed in care of the State.

The Social Worker said Hepburn stated that he was taking care of the toddler since he was a year and six months, as the mother wanted to put him up for adoption. She said Hepburn admitted that the child, who had turned 4 in February, was often left alone.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 27, 2022. 5.

Triaining

Global Career Institute - SVG turns one

THE GLOBAL CAREER INSTITUTE (GCI) celebrated one year since commencing its operations here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

And to celebrate, there was a series of activities which was expected to wrap up Friday 10th June, with a dinner and awards ceremony at the Grenadines House.

Simone Blackwood, Chairperson of GCI told THE VINCENTIAN that the feedback thus far has been amazing.

She said that GCI has been able to contribute to the economy of SVG by providing training and employment.

“We have a coordinator on the ground working with the students and the experience has been amazing and the feedback from the students have been overwhelming,” she said.

And according to Koya Barrimond, Operating and

Business Development Manager, one of the reasons why GCI has been as successful as it has in its first year of operations here, is because they have found that customer service and hospitality are important and have placed emphasis accordingly.

“And we need to focus on developing and training persons in these areas,” she stressed.

GCI was founded in 2016 in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is headquartered, with the aim of assisting areas including entrepreneurship and activating critical thinking.

Its website (https://www.gcareerintl.com) states its vision as, ‘to provide an international, culturally diverse environment and best educational learning programme’.

Through GCI, persons can access hybrid courses that are

affordable and can access coursework from the comfort of their homes.

Courses offered include the broad areas of: Health and Social Sciences, Building and Construction, Business Administration and Management, Fashion, Journalism, Law and Technology.

Outside of its base in Trinidad and Tobago, GCI operates in Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica and SVG. One of the areas that GCI focuses in on is Caribbean integration and networking, Barrimond told THE VINCENTIAN, explaining it as, “..building a platform that we can easily move throughout the different economies.”

The focus is on accessibility to development and opportunity and building critical thinkers and innovators, Barrimond continued.

Koya Barrimond, Operating and Business Development Manager of GCI, promises further expansion in the range of ‘courses’ offered.

Simone Blackwood, Chairperson of GCI, is ‘amazed’ by the feedback to her Institute’s programme.

it calls for critical thinking and innovation in order to put skilled labour back into the regional economies.

In the immediate future, She identified one of the GCI will be embarking on a faults of education within the business innovation and region as “gaps…. that people entrepreneurship workshop are leaving the region after which is earmarked for some attaining a certain level of time between July and August education and not returning.” this year, and building on its This, GCI reasoned, calls for selection of courses available. a different type of learning, i.e. (DD)

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6. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN

Views The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Editorial

The Summit of the Americas has concluded THE US-HOSTED 9TH SUMMIT of the Americas concluded in Los Angeles last Friday, June 10, and even at its conclusion there were protests highlighting the exclusion of Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela from the Summit.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, on the basis of a position articulated by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in paraphrase, that the Summit must be inclusive and not exclusive as demonstrated by the omission of the three countries as mentioned, that it was not about ideology but people and geography, did not attend.

Dr. Gonsalves tried to convince other CARICOM countries to follow suit. Some did, some did not with at least three heads of CARICOM Governments who attended, making the same case as Dr. Gonsalves had done, but more directly — i.e. straight in the face of the Summit’s host — US President Biden.

There are many who, having heard or read the references of those Heads would now ponder on: Couldn’t Dr. Gonsalves not have attended and done the same thing? Would an in-your-face, in their own backyard ‘put down’ not have been more impacting on Biden and his Administration than to have seemingly predicated his position by aligning stoically with a differing ideology?

Notwithstanding the issue of exclusion, those from throughout the Americas who attended the Summit did so with the intention of discussing key issues affecting their countries, and with the slight hope that a plan of sorts would be at least be framed for a (united) response going forward.

The issues listed for discussion would have included: trade, immigration, economic development, debt forgiveness/adjustment, climate change, food security and post-COVID recovery.

At the Summit, US President Joe Biden pledged US$1.9 billion in corporate investment, to tackle escalating levels of mass migration, primarily from the mainland, and economic depression that is already plaguing or threatening to destablise countries across the Americas. The pledge leaned heavily in favour of the Latin America… less emphasis on the Caribbean.

Of course, if the truth be told, this pledging of investment/aid, call it what you want, is nothing new. Previous pledges made by the US to help jump

start if not salvage the economies south and east of its borders have been far from fulfilled.

Put another way, pledges have not translated into disbursements and many would have left the Summit with little renewed faith in the US delivering on its promises.

As mentioned, there was an equal amount of controversy and skepticism at the conclusion of the Summit as there was even before the Summit convened, due to the US refusal to invite Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela, on the grounds that democracy for each nation’s citizenry was an “essential ingredient” for the future of the region.

Thus, in as much as some would want to parade the region as a “united front”, the Summit unearthed deep divisions in the continent.

And this reality prompted a concurrent international planning and work session, dubbed the People’s Summit, which can only be described as a show of lack of faith in the traditional leadership in the region.

The People’s Summit was convened by social/political activists, workers, women, minority groups, academics and people at the forefront for change across the Americas, whose coming together was indicative of a challenge of the inequities of the status quo.

To those who marshalled the People’s Summit, the Summit of the Americas would not amount to anything much … no advancement towards structural change, no real, concrete condemnation of the current patriarchal and imperial colonial system that still abounds in the region.

The macro issues of immigration, trade imbalances and political ideology — will never receive the objective and wholesome consideration of a Summit of the Americas. These are thornier and more challenging issues and are likely to affect the tone of relations between member nations. Hence, forget or downplay them for the sake of ‘peace’.

If we are to take a lead from this people’s stance, then we are wont to conclude that the leaders who decided against attending, could well have been sending a message that they are prepared to challenge US influence which is a diminishing presence in the region.

Was this Dr. Gonsalves’ underlying message in his stance against attending?

The push for paperless billing TWO UTILITY COMPANIES here are rapidly migrating to e-billing.

The Cable Company did it, so why can’t they? This seems to be the position of the two utility companies, without saying it in as many words.

For some time now, CWSA has offered an online billing option… albeit a little erratic process based on my personal experience. I first signed up for e-billing in January of 2021. I received my first email bill in March 2022. Ordinarily, I would say no problem, but after I signed up, I stopped receiving the paper bill, so I had to go into the office every month to get my monthly charges.

I feel this final push is a bit too aggressive for some of our residents. If you don’t have an email account, you are told to come into the office with the account number, and they will look it up for you. I’m not too fond of that option.

The people most likely not to have email addresses are our senior citizens. They are the ones who now have to rely on someone to go to the office to pay their bills, without knowing what it is. Do you see a problem or a potential problem? We must be more sensitive to the needs of our senior citizens and not put them in these vulnerable situations.

Let’s put this in perspective.

The paper bill helps them stay on budget as their memory begins to fade. It serves as a reminder for them to pay. It gives them the confidence to know what to pay and the assurance that no one is ripping them off (they have a record of what was due and what was paid). Let’s not forget some of these folks are the same people who still have your high school report card just in case we ever need it (smile).

While I applaud the advanced business thinking pushing us to ebilling, I am that walking contradiction that today, wants to leave well enough alone in honour of our senior citizens. I have an alternative for these utilities to consider. How about a one-time

10% credit for everyone who signs up for e-billing by a specific date?

An incentive like that will get all the procrastinators like myself excited and signed up. Another thing you can do for customers is to make more sites available to pay the bill. I suggest you invest in a few more bill-paying kiosks distributed throughout the country to make paying more convenient.

Why can I go to C K Greaves in Arnos Vale, withdraw money from CIBC and not pay my light or water bill?

Some years ago, before the city I managed went to e-billing, we did some surveys and found why some people were hesitant to switch.

Here are some of the reasons I recall in no particular order:* if you did have direct pay, the paper serves as a reminder of the pending payment and helps them avoid overdrawing the bank account–especially those without overdraft protection; * the older customers had difficulty filtering out the bills from the many junk emails; * it was difficult to review the bill for errors on the phone (too hard to read on the small screen) and no access to computers; * difficulty understanding the new format; * Concern about their private information being stolen.

Why do these Utilities want to go paperless? To start with, they can reduce stationery costs.

Printing those utility bills is an expensive proposition. One of the high-cost centres is those preprinted blank billing papers and the printer necessary to produce monthly bills. In addition to the printing cost, the personnel cost involved in delivering the bills or the mailing cost must also be relatively high. Encouraging customers to get an email bill may lead them to direct bill payment through their bank. This will allow the utility to get their money sooner.

In short, this idea of e-billing has the potential to be a money saver to the individual utility.

Let’s hope they pass the savings on to us.

Horatio

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. 7.

Letters

What can we say about W.I. cricket team?

You are my best Daddy THOSE are the beautiful words to the ears of the many men fathering children that are theirs only because they care for them. In this highly technological age, too many children have a dash on their birth certificate where the father’s name should be. Many are not allowed to play their role through lack of knowledge of what is in the best interest of the child.

All children need a father and some of the ill-discipline exhibited at schools can be attributed to the absence of fathers.

Simply knowing who their father is gives them a sense of identity, and causes great, improved behavioral changes. The role of the father is important for the success of their children.

Regardless of how he

came by his role, his responsibility is no less important. Biological, step, or adopted fathers, all must play the significant role guiding their children in the way they should go.

Children who grow up without a father’s influence are more likely to have difficulties fitting into the society as welladjusted citizens. Others may attempt to make up for the deficiency but their success will be limited.

Three stories stand out in my experience in teaching. The first involves registration of children at school where sometimes little or no effort is made to have the father’s name and particulars included in the documentation. The second involves a child

who was on Public Assistance, who was often denied resources and opportunities because of lack of means.

Subsequently I was unpleasantly surprised to find out who the father was at his untimely death. I mourned the loss of opportunity to access whatever assistance his child needed to make the schooling more thorough because he was a man of means. The third story involves a needy student.

When I found out who the father was, I asked that he provide the school supplies his child needed which he did willingly.

Many are fathers by virtue of the authority positions they hold in our society and the influence

The origin of religion ACCORDING to the Bible that was handed down to us, there was no religion in the beginning nor will there be any in the ending. Man was made to govern earth and it’s environment (Gen 1: 26-28). Agriculture (including fishing and hunting) was the original way of life.

Religion came about thousands of years ago in the near East.

Hinduism is the world’s oldest religion, with roots and customs dating back more than 4,000 years.

There are about 900 million followers.

Hinduism is the third largest religion behind Christianity and Islam. About 95 percent of the world’s Hindus live in India.

Strangely, religions and (political) ideologies have shaped and caused the world to be in this unhealthy journey such as wars, division, diseases, poverty and immorality.

The study of religions and political ideologies is important in our life. We have a Marxist-Leninist leading a capitalist and so-called Christian society. We have to dance to three kinds of drum music - the capitalist, communist and the so-called Christian drums.

According to the communist Anthony Stewart, PhD teaching there are no classes in society. Yet Putin, who leads the global communist government, is purported to be the richest politician on earth. Then, you have Ralph Gonsalves and Julian Francis, considered to be in the line of the richest politicians in our ‘2x4’ country.

Here we have it: “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than a rich man to enter into the kingdom (‘government’) of God.” Matt 19:24. You’re slamming the U.S government for not inviting Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela to their Summit, but you are dividing and ruling God’s people in Hairouna and its chain of islands. Well, your days are numbered. You are a trained lawyer. We are not here to destroy the prophesies of the prophets (Matt. 5:17) and the laws of the land, but to make sure that they are not twisted to anyone’s end.

We are here to establish and enforce God’s laws in which righteous principles, unity, justice for all, love and peace will replace corruption.

Christian Democrat

People are asking: * Why couldn’t our PM attend the Summit of the Americas and do what the Prime Ministers of Belize, Barbados, Bahamas and Antigua did… watch Biden straight in his face and tell him it was wrong to exclude Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua? * Are there more reasons other than the fact that we still don’t have appropriate accommodation, working against us having international cricket matches here? Is the state of the Arnos Vale Playing Field, i.e. those things that we don’t see but are basic, such that we couldn’t possibly host international teams? * Why are we behaving like paragons of virtue over what’s happening at our fetes when this is what is being promoted as our ‘new’

they have on our children. This is why it is very important that we set the right example in our conduct for our children to follow.

Fathers are required to raise their children properly, teaching them and giving them the right instructions (Ephesians 6:4). Let us celebrate this Father’s Day by ensuring that our children get the best care we can give.

carnival, now called Vincymas, as instead of Vincy Mas? * Why is it that the administration has taken a dislike to Abbijah’s “Who put dem deyso done dead” and not Karbon Jamz’s “Hard Times (eat) Bread and Butter”? Case of the singer and not the song? * Is there a plan to ‘retire’ the majority of our fisherfolk and replace them with operators of trawlers? And by the way, are fishers refusing to sell Rainforest fish? If so, why? * Did a resident of Rose Place get more than one of those units that was built for them at Lowmans? * Are the promoters of the private carnival fetes and shows paying up the required licence fees to the Copyright Organisation?

WEST INDIES cricket team continues to be talked about. But, we have lost the joy of watching, listening and talking about West Indies cricket. It no longer brings joy and excitement as it used to in the days gone by. Consistent good performances are sadly lacking.

There are some basic things that attribute to this poor performance. The ability to play good quality spinners is sadly missing. I guess it goes back to the first class cricket in the Caribbean where we have many spinners who would be the leading wicket takers but lack the effectiveness on the international arena. If batsmen cannot effectively play our spin bowlers who are not, in many cases top quality spinners, how can we expect them to effectively handle top spinners at the international level?

Another missing element in our players is the inability to think. Opposing bowlers use their head and work out our batsmen; our batsmen need to play intelligent cricket by using their heads and applying themselves. It is not enough to simply say we have talent — in bowling and batting. We need to develop the art of using our head to determine what ball to bowl and what shot to play when.

The last one day match is a prime example of players not having a cricket sense. Imaging needing around six runs per over and yet we saw batsmen giving away their wickets by trying to play big shots, rather than nudging the ball around for singles and twos. Singles and twos with occasional boundaries would have won them the game.

It is my hope that our players would return to the basics mentioned above.

Kennard King

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8. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN

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Cuba-SVG relationship: Celebrating 30 years of solidarity and friendship Introduction THE DECISION to establish diplomatic relations with countries is not one made on impulse, but requires serious consideration to determine the shared interests and values between states.

As a member of the international community, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is fortunate to have the leadership of Unity Labour Party led by Comrade Ralph that has crafted a pragmatic foreign policy that is rooted in inclusiveness. This country’s foreign policy can be summarised by the simple mantra “friends of all, we strive for a better world”, as was very evident during our campaign for a nonpermanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Our government believes in the principles of the Charter of the United Nations that are grounded in respect for the sovereignty and independence of states, noninterference in the internal affairs of states and the refraining from the use or the threat of the use of force. The adherence to these fundamental principles is vital to the maintenance of order on our planet, since those principles reinforce the equality of states regardless of physical or population size, and economic or military powers. Although countries within the international system share and practice different ideologies, and function under different systems of government, the principles of the Charter of the UN guide the interaction between states ensuring peaceful coexistence. It is because of this SVG can establish diplomatic relations with countries regardless of their ideologies, be they democratic, socialist, or theocratic with the full confidence that our actions are guided by the principles that are the foundation of our international system. Principles guide our decisions to align, and those same principles guide our interactions and actions, making our country a highly respected member with a sterling reputation within the various organisations that hold our membership.

SVG-Cuba relationship By establishing diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba at the height of USA aggression towards that country, the previous administration showed some courage. The action of the then NDP however, stop very short of anything meaningful since beyond the formal establishing of relationship, the government never bothered to have a permanent Vincentian diplomatic presence in Cuba. It was this ULP administration, under the leadership of Comrade Ralph that cemented the diplomatic relations, by appointing this country’s first ambassador in the person of H.E Dexter Rose as our highlevel representative to Cuba in 2005.

This action, along with the number of visits to that country by Comrade Ralph, and other ministers and officials of the government, have together served to nurture the relationship between both countries to the point where it is strong, vibrant and enduring. Cuba has and continues to support our country’s development agenda in the fields of education, healthcare, energy, airport development; simply put, in every aspect of Vincentian life. Many of this nation’s children have been afforded university level training in medicine, engineering, ICT and agriculture just to name a few thanks to the generosity of Cuba. The “vision now” program that provided urgent eye care to many of our citizens continues to get the praise and

gratitude of many Vincentians. The Argyle International Airport, a critical pillar in our economic transformation, and the Modern Medical Diagnostic Centre in Georgetown that provides improved community healthcare delivery would not be possible without the assistance of Cuba. These and many other areas where Cuba has and continues to provide assistance to this country are a testament to the strength of the bonds of friendship between the leadership of both countries.

Principled stance in defence of Cuba Even with the existence of principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and other international agreements, there are instances in our history where relations between countries become strained and require intervention from other nations to ease tensions. Since the start of the Cuban revolution, the relationship with that country and the USA has been volatile at best with the latter usually flexing its muscles in an effort to achieve the submission of the smaller and less powerful island nation. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines maintains that the best way to achieve any normalising of relations is through dialogue and that there must be a moving away from the old, “cold war” strategies that have not resulted in any meaningful outcomes thus far. The leadership of this country and its representatives have never shied away from speaking truth to power in urging restraint on the part of the powerful, and pointing out those in breach to the articles that are being committed by their actions. Our country recognises that any breakdown in international law will not only affect the principals involved in whatever conflict, but with further erosion coupled with member states inaction will only serve to create a world of chaos. SVG is not interested in defending ideology, political or otherwise; our country is firmly focused on defending principles. In 2021, SVG, along with 183 countries in the UN voted in favour of a resolution to demand the end of the US economic blockade on Cuba, for the 29th year in a row, with the United States and Israel voting against. Similarly, on the most recent issue of the exclusion of Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua from the Summit of the Americas, SVG condemned the actions of the USA for not inviting those countries to attend, and in response, refused to attend the meeting at any level. Other countries choose to register their protest by not attending at the level of head of state or government, but instead to send lower level representation. Regardless to the form of protest, this country was not the only country to condemn the actions of the USA, but could be regarded as the country with the strongest position. We believe that these actions are not only critical but necessary not only to show support to member states that are faced with one form of aggression or another, but most importantly to defend international law. It is by these actions that we do our part to ensuring the peaceful coexistence of nations in a peaceful world, not just for today, but for generations. Our actions though erroneously touted as staunch defence of Cuba among other states, are in reality a defence of those principles that we depend on to protect us as a vulnerable small island state in a world where too often “might is right”, thus in fighting to help others we are in essence saving ourselves.

We must end the violence (Mrs. Lavern Velox’s Presentation at a March and Rally against Violence) IT IS INDEED a privilege to have been asked to speak at this March and Rally against Violence. I am happy that we are dealing with violence against all genders since women are generally the focus, but it’s time to level the playing field because violence against anyone, male or female, must be condemned.

The time has come for Vincentians to lend their voices and their presence to these events which sensitize us to the criminal and senseless acts which add to the hardship and pain of our citizens. We must Cry RAPE and end the violence.

We are already dealing with unemployment, poverty, inadequate health services and a host of other social ills that are crippling our ability to survive. We are hurting and we are angry but Violence is not the answer. I came across a quote earlier this week. It goes something like this…’Before you hold a grudge, hold a conversation’. It may be a simple misunderstanding. All that says, is before you strike out in anger at someone, try reasoning to thrash out your differences. Lashing out is not the answer. We must end the violence.

In the period leading up to the General Elections of 2001, an aspiring Prime Minister, who was touted as a brilliant criminal lawyer, promised to be tough on crime and the causes of crime. I think he said at the time that he understood the workings of the criminal mind. So much for that fallacy…today, crime in our beloved St. Vincent and the Grenadines is at its worst ever! And you know what is bad? Crimes, such as murder, are no longer shocking.

They’re photo ops and have become our new normal. Just another day in paradise. The moral fabric of our society continues to be eroded when we sit by and do nothing about it.

This event should be the turning point when we break our silence and vocalize our fears and our concerns relative to violence. We must cry RAPE and end the violence.

Let me just speak briefly about 2022. For the first five months of this year, our county recorded 20 murders. This is probably a record for us. The average for 2022, therefore, is a staggering four murders per month. At this rate we’re looking at an all-time record of 48 murders for this year. I pray to God that this does not happen.

Violence and the reason we are gathered here today are very real to me because just two weeks ago, our family laid my nephew, Jevornie Gibson, to rest. He was murdered by a close family friend because he refused a drink offered. I sat in the church bewildered as my brother, sister in law, nephews and niece along with our extended family fought to hold themselves together and all I could ask myself was, why?

My nephew was just 24 years old, not known to be a troublemaker. Yet, his life was snuffed out and all it took was one stab wound. But ours was not the only family affected. The person who committed the crime was

incarcerated and his family was facing ridicule, shame and possibly guilt as a result.

My constituency - East St. George - has been grappling with a seemingly endless stream of violent crimes. Just last month, there were four murders in one weekend. What is causing us to be so wicked towards each other? Are our hearts made of stone? This nation needs healing and we need it now! Too many of our sons are brutally murdered. Too many of our daughters are being abused and become victims to violent crimes. Too many families are hurting. The vicious cycle must stop and today we are here to start the change required to bring our people together, recognizing that we need ALL hands on deck to rebuild our country.

Is life so meaningless? Have we as a people become so wicked that killing is the only means of solving trivial disputes? Have we strayed so far from God that we cannot remember the sixth commandment, ‘Thou shall not kill,’? When did we stop being our brother’s keeper? Who has to accept responsibility for what appears to be a total breakdown of law and order in our society?

All brutal acts of violence are not limited to the victim or the perpetrator of the crime. There is emotional stress on families, mental health issues and grief in instances of killing. If the person injured or killed is the breadwinner in the family, hardship ensues.

If we are honest with ourselves and are looking for answers to why acts of violence are carried out, we have to start by doing introspection…look within ourselves.

We have scrutinized methods of parenting. We have to relook the school system. Our children spend most of their weekday waking hours in school. The influence of those charged with teaching them is real so they must be able to help frame minds so the children in their charge can become useful citizens. Our church leaders must lead their flocks down the path of righteousness.

Parents, do not send your children to church… take them.

Our young people have no programmes or activities in place to let off steam or occupy their time productively. Clubs, societies and events which engendered harmony amongst the youth no longer exist.

What about teaching skills that can ultimately lead to self-employment?

Sporting activities must be encouraged so playing fields and hard courts must be freed up for use by our citizens. Come on ‘nah man’…let’s get SVG working and safe for all.

My hope, my dream, my plea to my fellow Vincentians is for them to choose peace, not violence. Choose love, not hate. Choose kindness, not adversity. Choose freedom, not jail.

Cry RAPE and end violence in St. Vincent and the Grenadines! Let St. Vincent be a land so beautiful as enshrined in our National Anthem and let peace reign from shore to shore.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. 9.

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Whistle blowing essential to democracy

Chasing Glory

“Glory is largely a theatrical concept.

There is no striving for glory without a vivid awareness of an audience... The desire to escape or camouflage their unsatisfactory selves develops in the frustrated, a facility for pretending — for making a show — and also a readiness to identify themselves wholly with an imposing spectacle.” Eric Hoffer (1902-1983) – American moral and social philosopher.

THERE IS NOTHING INHERENTLY WRONG in striving for perfection and, in so doing, cultivating a desire to be recognized for having achieved success. Such ambitions often propel us to give of our very best; to discipline ourselves to invest the necessary time and effort in pursuit of our noble goals. This is as true for the student who is pursuing a course of study as it is for a lawyer who focuses on winning her case in the court of law. We may consider these two scenarios as seeking “healthy glory”; generating and sustaining a sense of satisfaction in having accomplished a task. However, if/when the accomplishment invites and retains a sense of conceit or arrogance it moves the pride meter into the red warning zone of “unhealthy pride” and fuels the pursuit of “unwholesome glory”.

Based on the foregoing, we understand and appreciate that so much depends on the motives fuelling the chase … the pursuit of glory. The British writer Tahir Shah (born 1966) reminds us that, “The taste for glory can make ordinary men behave in extraordinary ways.” This powerful statement applies to those with pure motives as well as those individuals who seek glory by unethical, dishonest, means.

In the case of the former, many successful individuals can testify of how being able to retain a focus of accomplishing an honourable task propelled them to make the necessary sacrifices to accomplish this. For instance, many examples abound of single mothers who worked several jobs and endured physical and emotional pain as they sought to provide for their children. Many desired to provide their offspring with a better life than they had experienced and, in so doing, enabled their wards to chase glory without some of the social and economic constraints that they (the mothers) would have endured.

There are some who chase glory using unethical means (i.e., stealing, lying, deceitfulness, etc.). Such individuals appear to conclude that “the end justifies the means”. They appear to pacify their consciences and incorrectly conclude that if the end result is desirable enough, it will justify whatever needs to be done to achieve that goal. For example, there are individuals who convince themselves that it is okay to falsify the information presented in their curriculum vitae (CV) as they seek to gain employment.

Also consider a political candidate who seeks to justify having someone falsely register in one constituency even though it is known that they reside in another — the intention being that the false registration will provide the candidate for election with an advantage at the polls. Those who go to these lengths in search of glory perpetuate dishonesty. They slowly unravel the moral fabric of society and energize the downward spiral to societal decadence. This is especially dangerous when influential citizens engage in or encourage such activities.

There are numerous instances of

individuals who, while they were pursuing their noble goals/ambitions, experienced delays, detours, disappointments, and setbacks but refused to give up. They persisted against great odds and were eventually able to bask in the glory generated by their success.

Albert Einstein (1879-1955), one of the greatest thinkers of our time, is known to have failed his entrance examination to the Swiss Federal Polytechnic School in Zurich, Switzerland, when he was a teenager.

The young Einstein worked as an insurance salesman following his graduation from college but eventually quit that job following his poor performance in this field. However, he rekindled his early affinity to mathematics and science and refused to allow his temporary failures to demobilize him. He had failed but he was not a failure. He had the courage and tenacity to regroup, refocus as he resumed his upward journey to ultimate success. Such individuals imbibe the wisdom shared by Vince Lombardi (1913-1970), the accomplished American football coach, when he reminded us that, “The real glory is being knocked to your knees and then coming back. That’s real glory. That’s the essence of it.”

Einstein’s legacy will live on forever.

So, too, will the many other citizens of the world who, amidst tremendous sacrifice, retained a focus on their noble dreams to create legacies that multiple generations will appreciate.

Bill Gates (born 1955), the American business magnate, investor, author, software developer and philanthropist now basks in the glory emerging from his co-creation of Microsoft, along with Paul Allen, his childhood friend.

However, as a seventeen-year-old, his first attempt at developing a software company (Traf-O-Data) failed miserably. Today, his net worth is in the vicinity of US$80 billion. He retained his vision and focus for enhancing the performance of personal computers through a variety of programmes and is now considered to be the father or modern personalcomputing software. He is admired and respected by many around the world.

His accomplishments are glorified.

With clean, pure motives and a commitment to the pursuit of goals with the highest of integrity, the culmination of the chase to glory can be considered most rewarding. And, having done so, there is value in documenting such accomplishments via print or electronic media. This is especially important as efforts are made to encourage the current generation to design and pursue their noble ambitions in ways that reflect the highest ethical considerations. These wards that have been entrusted to our care, need to realize the wisdom shared by the Roman philosopher and author Gaius Plinius Secundus (AD 23 — AD 79), also known as Pliny the Elder, when he noted that, “True glory consists in doing what deserves to be written, in writing what deserves to be read, and in so living as to make the world happier and better for our living in it.”

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

THE NEWS THAT TWO BROTHERS from the wealthy Gupta family were arrested in the United Arab Emirates must be sweet music to the ears of Themba Maseko and millions of South Africans.

Atul and Rajesh Gupta are accused in South Africa of profiting from their close links with former president Jacob Zuma, and exerting unfair influence.

Extradition talks are taking place between the two countries.

The brothers fled South Africa after a judicial commission began probing their involvement in corruption in 2018.

They are accused of paying financial bribes to win lucrative state contracts and influence powerful government appointments.

This sad state of affairs has its genesis in 2010, when Themba Maseko, a top government official, was called to the Gupta home and asked by Ajay Gupta to divert the government’s entire advertising budget to the family’s media company. When Maseko refused, he was removed from his position and forced to leave the public service.

Last year he published the book, ‘For My Country: Why I Blew the Whistle on Zuma and the Guptas’.

‘For My Country….’ is a damning book because it speaks of greed and corruption in high places. The book tells the story in jarring details about Maseko getting a call from President Zuma instructing him: ‘My brother, there are these Gupta men. I want you to meet with them and help them.’

Maseko met with Ajay Gupta but refused to accede to the wishes of President Zuma and the Guptas. His refusal turned his life upside down. In 2016, when the African National Congress (ANC) called on members with evidence of wrongdoing by the Guptas to step forward, Maseko was the only one to do so. He was fired, threatened, labelled a traitor and made to suffer.

Maseko has strong movement credentials. He made his name as a student activist and leader. He joined the African National Congress and the Communist Party and rose quickly up the ranks. He was trained in law and business management but became the public face of the government during the Mandela and Mbeki administrations.

Maseko was elected in South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994.

However, he resigned one year later and joined the civil service.

In the forward to ‘For My Country…’, Sydney Mufamadi, his mentor, described Maseko as an activist ‘who was part of a generation of civil servants who put our people ahead of their personal interest and put people ahead of party. They understood that the best way to serve their party was to serve the country with commitment and integrity.’

Maseko describes his early beginnings and the impact of his mother and father on his life. Both parents saw education as the key to a better life and wanted nothing more than to see their children succeed. He writes about dealing with hunger and the endless days when their only meal was bread and peanut butter.

Maseko described June 16, 1976, as a watershed day in his life. That was the day the Apartheid government opened fire on protesting students in Soweto, killing hundreds of them. He realised then that ‘he had a choice to live like a slave or die like a fighter for his people and country.’ That day, he said, ‘defined who he was to become and hooked him on politics.’

Maseko spoke of the many ways in which Nelson Mandela inspired him. He pointed to Mandela’s strong leadership by assembling a diverse cabinet that brought former enemies together;

inspiration to all South Africans to have hope and see themselves as part of a ‘rainbow nation’; his deep commitment to improving the condition of the poor, surrounding himself with highly competent people who were usually younger and smarter than him in certain respects, and the important leadership lesson he bequeathed about succession planning.

Maseko pointed to early signs of ‘State capture’ within a few years of the ANC taking power in 1994. Politicians started looking out for themselves rather than the people they swore to serve; stories broke of politicians violating the good governance principle, which required separation of political functions from administrative ones while at the same time ensuring clear points of connection between the two.

He spoke of his tremendous pride when his department ‘tabled one of the very rare unqualified audit reports to parliament.’

When Maseko became the chief government’s spokesman, he said his team ‘wanted to ensure that government messages addressed the needs of society and that our work should not be mere propaganda. We were very clear that government communication was about listening to the voters.’

Maseko had high praises for President Mbeki’s management skills.

He regarded him as very competent and praised him for how he dealt with meetings. He said he was always punctual and ‘rarely participated at the beginning of meetings.’

The emergence of Jacob Zuma as Deputy President and then President witnessed the full-scale capture of the state by powerful, rich people. It is true that Maseko’s disclosure about the Guptas brought the issue to the fore but as early as 2005, a top advisor to Zuma was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to 15 years in prison. It was revealed at the trial that the convicted man paid Zuma hundreds of thousands of rands in exchange for political influence in a multi-billion rand arms deal.

The Guptas’ influence and control of the state were all-embracing. The brothers boasted that they could make and break politicians. They controlled the government’s protocol office and became vital players when Zuma made official visits abroad or when foreign officials arrived in South Africa. The true extent of the Guptas’ control of Zuma’s presidency was revealed in 2013 when an airline carrying 300 rich friends of the Guptas landed at South Africa’s main military airbase.

Maseko said he made the decision that ‘something had to be done; the Guptas had to be stopped. I had no idea how to go about it, but this incremental hijacking of our democracy had to be exposed. He said when his exposure hit the news, ‘I panicked since I had done something that was taboo in ANC politics: I snitched on the president and on my party.’

Was Maseko’s whistle blowing and sacrifice worth it? Of course it did.

By 2018, investigations into corruption and state capture began in South Africa. The Guptas fled the country and Zuma was removed from office in 2019. The Guptas are in jail awaiting extradition to face trial in South Africa.

Vincentians must draw courage and lessons from this beautiful story.

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

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10. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN

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SVG needs visionary and positive leadership

environment of SVG. There are a number of commodities IN 1996, Leader of SVG Green Party, Today, SVG has multiple telecoms Today in 2022, we have a humble that are not being utilised that could Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc companies; competition has reduced message to the people. We need to cut bring in revenue for the country. We (Hons), MSc, MBA, said to the people of prices significantly; quality has loose from the NDP and ULP regimes, could process aloe vera, fruit juices, SVG that the Cable & Wireless telecoms improved, and more importantly, the which by design and inability, have peanut butter and herbal teas. monopoly was bad for the SVG economy. poor and low-income groups are now almost destroyed the economy of SVG. Manufacturing goods in the country Almost everyone said he was wrong and able to enter the telecom market.

They have been flawed in their will provide added value, thereby that our country was too small for more Many people today have mobile phones management of the SVG economy. increasing export income. than one telecoms company. and have the ability to communicate These parties beg, borrow and SVG needs a Green economy. We People thought that the (via telephone) at prices that are more squander public money and scarce need: our own science university, new introduction of competition would affordable today, compared to the days resources. The implications of this agro-processing factories, a fish result in the loss of jobs in the telecom under the Cable & Wireless telecoms negative mind-set have resulted in a processing and canning industry, to industry, but he begged to differ. monopoly. high rate of national debt, high export fresh water in tanker loads, to Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal In 1996, neither the NDP or ULP unemployment, the perpetuation of abolish VAT, free education from preBSc (Hons), MSc, MBA conducted a had the vision or positivity to see that poverty and illiteracy, and a society school to university, to grow more of relentless, one-man protest to abolish breaking up the Cable & Wireless polarized by party affiliation. our own food and import less — the Cable & Wireless telecom telecoms monopoly would bring More seriously, this negative mind- especially now with the war in monopoly. As we all know now, he was significant benefits to the people of set has been trying to deal with the Ukraine and its impact on increasing successful and it was abolished.

SVG. symptoms of our failing economy, global food prices - to empower and rather than the causes of why the educate the people, an end to tax economy is failing. exemptions in Mustique, to wave No country can truly develop under goodbye to Taiwan and a multisuch a negative mind-set. SVG Green variable economy driven by indigenous Party would adopt a strategy of wealth productive sectors. creation, sustainable job creation, These are the seeds of change that high-quality human capital would initiate Green shoots of development and prudent economic recovery in 2023 and beyond management of the economy. and create the thousands of new jobs SVG Green Party’s philosophy and that are desperately needed. mission is to substantially restructure Only visionary and positive the economy of SVG as a going concern leadership under a Green government and protect and preserve the fragile can achieve these goals.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 27, 2022. 11.

Business

Tropical Shipping donates to WPP ON MONDAY, 13TH JUNE, 2022, Maxine Howard, Sales Manager of Tropical Shipping St Vincent & the Grenadines handed over a cheque valued at ECD$2,700.00 to Lauren McIntosh-Shallow, Executive Director, Caribbean World Pediatric Project (WPP).

The presentation took place at Tropical Shipping’s office in Kingstown.

At the handover, Ms. Howard expressed pleasure in donating to the organisation and spoke of Tropical Shipping’s commitment in honoring the

From left to right) Atyna Harry (Program company’s corporate EC$84 million.

Assistant, World social responsibility McIntosh-Shallow Pediatric Project), through its commitment extended sincere Lauren McIntoshto assist children in need appreciation to Tropical Shallow (Executive of medical attention, Shipping for the financial Director, Caribbean some at a tertiary stage. support given to World - World Pediatric World Pediatric Pediatric Project in its Project), Maxine Howard Project (WPP) is a nonmission to provide care (Sales Manager Tropical profit organization which to children in SVG and Shipping), Cedric Mc focuses on providing across the Eastern Intyre (Island Manager critical pediatric services Caribbean. (Contributed) Tropical Shipping). to children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Eastern Caribbean.

WPP has had a presence in St Vincent & the Grenadines since 2002 and has helped over 3,400 Vincentian children with a value of services in excess of

Sagicor invites NGOs to “join hands” REGIONAL President and financial CEO of Sagicor services Life Inc, Robert entity Sagicor Trestrail said is inviting the company’s registered new CSR nonprogramme, governmental Helping Hands, organisations will be used to (NGOs) across uplift regional the Caribbean NGOs. to submit nominations to be a part of their new corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, Helping Hands. The first programme of its kind for the organisation, where chosen NGOs will be given tangible and intangible assistance in support of their charities, causes and projects. Nominations can be submitted via https://www.sagicor.com/en/Helping-hands, after which a review and selection process will follow.

Persons can also submit a nomination via the company’s social media channels, as well as view the nomination video, which features team members from across the organisation.

One NGO each will be selected from Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados, and one NGO will be selected to represent the territories of the Eastern Caribbean and Belize in which Sagicor operates.

These territories are Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Robert Trestrail, President and CEO, Sagicor Life Inc said the new initiative forms part of the Group’s Living our Vision Everyday (L.O.V.E.) CSR programme under its Community and Youth Development pillar.

“NGOs do the important work of bringing awareness to the causes that we all care about and that uplift our societies. They need help in doing this work especially as we continue in the pandemic, where support for many charities has diminished. We’re very pleased to be able to encourage them with this programme and are excited for the submissions that we will receive and later, working with the selected NGOs to help further their initiatives.”

Nominations for the programme close on June 17th. (Submitted by Sagicor)

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12. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

Health

Hand, Foot and Mouth disease abounds

by GLORIAH...

Visible expressions of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease.

THE UNCERTAINTY about the presence and spread

of the Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in educational and other institutions here, especially where young children attend, has now been cleared up.

Yesterday, Thursday, 16th June, in an NBC Radio newscast the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment revealed that the situation was being monitored closely.

It also disclosed that there have been confirmed cases in educational institutions in the country.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Simone Keizer Beache stated that, “The Ministry of Health has noted the increasing reports of HFMD predominantly in preschoolers, young children and it’s a disease caused by a virus. Every year we see increased numbers around this time,” she disclosed.

The release explained that HFMD is a common viral illness among children under the age of five but can also occur in adults.

The disease is caused by a group of viruses known as the enterovirus which can spread from person to person through close personal contact such as hugging an infected person; or by air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

HFMD usually starts with fever, sore throat, reduced appetite, and a feeling of being unwell.

One or two days after the fever starts, painful sores could develop in the mouth.

The sores could make it difficult for these children to eat, Dr. Keizer-Beache said.

“Typically, the child presents with rash on the hands, the toes of the feet, in the mouth,” she explained, “and that is

what is particularly worrisome especially when that rash is in the mouth: those bumps, those boils, those water blisters; they prevent the child from being able to eat, or drink, or play.

The child might have a fever and then, the bumps and the blisters on the skin, they become itchy so the child will scratch a lot and the child becomes very miserable.”

THE VINCENTIAN spoke with a private practitioner who admitted to the upsurge and explained that the virus is highly contagious. The practitioner also confirmed that it has been spreading mainly among daycares, and preschools.

THE VINCENTIAN learned, “The most serious situation that could arise among a population of students or households is one in which, based on the cases that are presenting, dehydration and weight loss because of a refusal to eat; rash becomes quite severely infected because they’re scratching it and using dirty hands; the fact that it could spread significantly to many children and then it has an economic implication because a lot of parents will have to stay home, so jobs are affected.”

This newspaper was further informed that, “Because it is spread by saliva and oral secretions and also from stool, HFMD demands the practice of good hygiene: washing, sanitizing, disinfecting surfaces and trying to insure that: sick children stay home as they are infected, and even if it is just a fever because the rash will come soon after; avoid contact with someone who has it.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 27, 2022. 13.

Entertainment

Kicking Vincymas 2022 into gear

BY TODAY FRIDAY JUNE 17, twenty-two calypsonians would have been named for 2022 Calypso Monarch semifinals carded for Victoria Park, Friday June 24.

That followed preliminaries which ended last evening.

Calypsonians from Graduates, Upstage Experience and On Tour Calypso tents appeared before the judges at the Russell’s auditorium.

Dubbed ‘Ting nice agen’ the semi-finals will feature guest artistes: Union Island born, France-based recording artiste Wetty Beatz; reigning monarch Shaunelle McKenzie; and Trinidad and Tobago’s Edwin ‘Crazy’ Ayoung.

The Calypso Monarch semi-finals kick the official calypso/soca component of Vincymas 2022 into gear.

The semi-finals for the Soca and Raga Soca competitions will rock the Solidarity Car Park

on Sunday 26th June, and the Junior calypsonians and soca artistes will tussle for glory at Victoria Park, Tuesday June 28. There will also be a Young DJ clash.

The high energy soca concert EVO Number 5 will be staged at the Cruise Ship Berth, July 01, as an appetiser to the National Soca and Raga Soca Monarch competitions, slated for July 02 at Victoria Park.

The traditional components of Vincymas come together in a onenight spectacle on Sunday 3rd July. This when the finals of the Calypso Monarch competition will feature eleven bards each doing one song; nine Steel Orchestras, each under a local arranger, vying for supremacy in that art form; and mas bands displaying sections from their Mardi Gras presentations.

There will be no King and Queen of the Bands

The Calypso SemiFinals have been dubbed ‘Ting Nice Agen’ and will have Wetty Beatz as one of its guest artiste. competitions, neither will there be Band of the Year competition.

Traditional J’Ouvert activities are slated the morning of July 4, followed by the T-shirt parade that afternoon.

Tuesday July 5 — Mardi Gras will sees last lap operations with costumed bands parading through the streets of Kingstown.

There will be no heavy costumes and each bands is expected to portray as many as five sections.

(Stories by WKA)

Noted swing to soca MORE YOUNGSTERS are gravitating to the Soca genre.

That view was expressed by the Carnival Development Corporation’s (CDC) Coordinator of Shows - Anthony Dennie. last Wednesday at the CDC’s office at Victoria Park.

In support of his conclusion, Dennie pointed to the number of entrants in the Soca version in the Junior calypso competition as an indication of the attraction by youngsters. Seventeen entries were received in the Soca segment compared to nine in the Primary School calypso version, and eight in the Secondary aspect.

It was against this backdrop that Dennie expressed confidence that the Soca Monarch competition will be a gala event, describing the energy content’ of Vincentian Soca as “hard to match.”

Twenty semi-finalists have aklready been selected for the semifinals of the Soca and raga Soca Monarch competitions, dubbed ‘Royal

Anthony Dennie, CDC Shows Coordinator, has pointed to the gravitational pull of the soca genre as far as young artistes are concerned.

Rumble’, to be held at the Soladarity Cark Park, Sunday 26th June. Ten will go to the final in both Ragga and Soca categories.

Dennie noted that the “big names” in the Soca arena have lived up to their billing, and he is pleased with “the refreshing drive from the youngsters.’

“We know how to do it,” Dennie declared.

And with $25,000 plus a car lined for the winner, there lies the gravitational pull of soca.

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14. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN

Obituary

Former Vincentian civil servant Dawn Pompey passes

Grenadines), and she graduated in 1958,” the obituary says.

On Aug. 6, 1960, it says, Dawn married James Pompey. Together they had four daughters.

The obituary says that Mrs. Pompey worked for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Government in the civil service for 19 years before Dawn Ann Frances migrating to the United Williams Pompey States in 1980.

(1940 – 2022).

She worked in New York and New Jersey for

by NELSON A. KING many years before US Correspondent moving to Georgia in naking@verizon.net 1995, where she was employed in the Law DAWN ANN FRANCES WILLIAMS POMPEY – wife Department, as a claims of James Pompey, a former assistant, for the City of Atlanta, before retiring in Permanent Secretary in 2006 at 65. the Ministry of Foreign The obituary states Affairs in St. Vincent and that Mrs. Pompey had the Grenadines and many passions in life, erstwhile diplomat at the Mission of St. Vincent and including baking, sewing, gardening, crocheting, the Grenadines to the United Nations in New York quilting and scrapbooking.

– died peacefully, on Jun. “Her daughters 10, at her home in remember several party McDonough, Georgia, her dresses getting finishing family said. She was 82. touches right before they The family said Mrs. walked out the door to Pompey — a former civil attend an event,” it says. servant in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who “Every grandchild who graduated from high hailed from New school received a Montrose, Kingstown — scrapbook created by was surrounded by her immediate family on her their grandmother.

“Dawn also made sure death.

Mrs. Pompey, who was that every child, born on Jan. 17, 1940, to grandchild and great grandchild received a the late Ermine and quilt with material Edmund Williams, was carefully selected with the eldest daughter of eight children “blessed to them in mind,” it adds.

“Traditional Black cake this union”, according to was always mailed to the obituary.

She received her early family and friends every Christmas for all to education at the enjoy.” renowned Ms. Kathleen The obituary says Mrs. Wilson Private School, Pompey also loved using which later became known as the Kingstown napkins to draw and create many designs or to Preparatory School. record her thoughts “Her preparation at about recipes she might this school gained her want to try later. entrance to the Girls “Dawn was a devoted High School in St. church member of several Vincent (and the churches where she

served on the altar guild and as an usher,” it says.

“When the family relocated to Henry County (in Georgia) in 2002, she became a member of St. Joseph’s Episcopal (Anglican) Church.”

Besides her mother and father, Mrs. Pompey was preceded in death by her brothers Albert, Lesley and Cooper Williams; sisters Celia Cozier and Joyce Hull; sister-in law Salene Williams; sister-in law Celia Williams; and grand-son Augustine Anton Pompey.

Mrs. Pompey is survived by several relatives and friends, including her husband James (of 61 years of marriage); and four daughters: Jo-Anne (Dave) Yearwood of Polk City Florida; Beverley Jackson of Lawrenceville, New Jersey; Karen Pompey (special partner Jerome Daniels) of McDonough, Georgia; and Roxanne Pompey of Morrow, Georgia.

She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Natasha (Bernie) Thomas of Indianapolis, Indiana; Trisha Yearwood of Grand Forks, North Dakota; Sasha Yearwood of Glendale, California; Biancha Jackson (special friend John Cannon) of Somerdale, New Jersey; Dominique Jackson of Lawrenceville, New Jersey; Daniel John of Plainfield; New Jersey; and James Pompey, Jr. of McDonough, Georgia.

Other relatives included four greatgrandchildren, the obituary says.

“Although death removed Dawn from our midst, her strong spirit and influence will abide with us forever,” it says.

The funeral service took place at St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church in McDonough, Georgia on Wednesday, Jun. 15, followed by internment at Eastlawn Memorial Park.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, MAY 27, 2022. 15.

News

Warning: ÂDonÊt buy stolen livestock⁄. !Ê

BUTCHERS and other individuals who purchase stolen agricultural produce and livestock have been warned to desist from committing this illegal act.

The warning came from Commissioner of Police (CoP) Colin John, who, while speaking on last Sunday’s Issue at Hand on WE FM radio, called on the judiciary to hand down harsher sentences for persons brought before the court for such acts.

This, he said, would deter them from further involvement and others from committing the offence.

He said that he was told of an incident where an individual purchased four animals for as low as EC$400.

“So, you could definitely see that these animals were stolen,” John said.

Commissioner John admitted that praedial larceny was a problem as

One more COVID-19 death

by GLORIAH...

THE DEATH toll attributed to COVID-19 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines numbered 109 as of Tuesday 14th June 2022.

THE VINCENTIAN was informed that the latest victim was a fully vaccinated 84-year-old female with underlying conditions. She is said to have tested positive for COVID-19 on May 31st, 2022, at Chateaubelair SMART Hospital and succumbed to pneumonia at her home, on the 10th of June, 2022.

The COVID-19 statistics as released by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment for Tuesday, 14th June showed that there were 155 active cases of the coronavirus in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The report showed 2 new cases recorded by that Tuesday from 24 PCR tests and 5 new cases from Rapid

Antigen tests.

Fourteen recoveries were noted on Tuesday with 3 persons hospitalized with the virus: 2 unvaccinated and 1 fully vaccinated.

Thus far, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has seen a total of 8,936 cases of COVID-19 with 8,672 recoveries having been recorded to date.

71,285 COVID-19 vaccines have been administered locally so

far. 36,680 persons have received their first dose; 30,760 have received their second dose and 3,845 have taken booster shots.

As the carnival season brings with it increased crowding, persons are reminded that the COVID-19 virus is not absent during interactions and the maintaining of protocols should be seriously considered.

borne out by the recent (June 12) arrest of a 17year-old for the theft of one Bull (Cattle) valued at $4,500.00.

And to complicate things further, John pointed out that persons who engage in the theft of agricultural produce and livestock often do not reside in the communities where the acts are perpetrated.

Perpetrators were utilizing rented vehicles as a ‘tool’ in carrying out their nefarious acts he added, and referenced that the police have discovered stolen agricultural items during stop and search exercises.

Another worrying trend was that persons who have been arrested and charged would be offered bail and, in some instances, go out and involve themselves in the same activity.

Overall, the issue was a problem for the police and farmers, and it was a major issue during the volcanic eruption in 2021, John said.

He explained that the police had to ensure that the red zones were secured which included the searching of vehicles when entering and leaving such areas.

The Rural Constable Programme

Police here have noted that vehicles are becoming more and more used in the illegal conveyance of agricultural produce and livestock in farming communities.

(RCP) was established in June, 2010 when 20 rural constables were commissioned as part of a new division of the Royal SVG Police Force.

The measure was taken in an effort to bolster the enforcement of the Agricultural Produce and Livestock (Prevention of Theft) Act of 2007, in light of increased incidences of praedial larceny.

The RCP was discontinued in 2019 after it was deemed ineffective, producing few arrests and even fewer convictions. (DD)

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16. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

News

Lowered electricity bills for June during the month of June. This injection will cause the Fuel Surcharge Rate of 72.52 cents per kWh SUBSCRIBERs to the service the St. Vincent Electricity that is applicable on June’s electricity bill, to be Services Limited (VINLEC) will pay less for the lowered to 65.79 cents per kWh. electricity they use for the month of June 2022.

About three weeks ago, VINLEC had issued a This has been occasioned by an injection of funds statement highlighting the increasing cost of fuel through joint forces of the Board of Directors of and its impact on the Fuel Surcharge Rate on VINLEC and the Government of St. Vincent and the customers’ electricity bills. The company had Grenadines. indicated that further increases in the cost of fuel Funds being injected will see customers will would lead to an even larger increase in the Fuel paying less than the actual cost of the fuel used Surcharge Rate.

Stories by GLORIAH...

CPU: Watch out for counterfeit notes ON JULY 1, 2022, in the midst of the carnival season, the Crime Prevention Unit (CPU) of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) will stage its annual Carnival Crime Prevention Exhibition.

The CPU has highlighted the possibility of the circulation of counterfeit currency in the buzz of the season and even now, has issued advice to Vincentians and visitors to be on the lookout for such notes.

Sergeant Carla Timm, Chairperson of the Unit, has noted that vigilance could curtail the spread of these notes.

She singled out the area of transportation as being rife for the spread of counterfeit currency.

She stated, “We also know that

around this time we can’t Sergeant Carla Timm, forget the van drivers and Chairperson of the CPU, conductors hustling to make zeroed in on minibus a dollar.... at the same time operations and vending the counterfeit currency will at carnival as prime be stirring there and then. areas for use of So, we want persons to be carnival counterfeit notes. educated about what to look time where for. It wouldn’t take two or they sell three seconds to check a their drinks and collect their counterfeit note when you are a money...... in that sense of conductor.” collecting monies, we want She also pleaded to vendors to persons also to pay attention to be vigilant, saying that it would those notes.” be wise to familiarize themselves She reiterated the importance with the security features on of persons visiting the Carnival authentic notes, thereby availing Crime Prevention Exhibition to be themselves of the ability to staged by the Crime Prevention identify the fake currencies.

Unit on July 1st, where different She reasoned, “Not forgetting departments of the Police Force that we have the vendors. .... will also be available to educate persons normally come out to the public on various issues. make an extra dollar around

VINLEC has reported that a continued trend over the past month has resulted in the company paying approximately $9,000,000 for fuel used to generate electricity during the period. This figure represented the highest cost that VINLEC has ever paid in a single month for fuel used to generate electricity. Hence the resultant June surcharge of 72.52 cents per kWh. VINLEC has therefore cautioned customers that “while this effort does bring some relief to customers, the fuel surcharge rate is still higher that the previous month.” It has appealed to customers that even as they are aware that it is not possible for many customers to reduce their electricity consumption, they could attempt to conserve electricity, an action that will “assist in mitigating the impact of a high monthly fuel cost”.

The St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited will continue to monitor fuel prices and the likely impact on customers.

A joint subsidy by VINLEC and Government will bring some ease to electricity consumers here in June.

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. 17.

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18. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

You were wrong!!

Dear George, I CANNOT believe people could be so wicked. I left my 8-year-old daughter at home with her 11-year-old cousin and went to Town. I intended to be back in 2 hours but I got stuck and returned some 7 hours later.

When I got back they told me they had nothing to eat. In fact, there was nothing in the house to eat, which is why I went to town.

They also told me they went to the next door neighbour to ask for something to eat and she refused, telling them their mother was wicked to leave them hungry like that.

When I confronted my neighbour, she said it was my duty, not hers, to feed my children. I was shocked by her attitude since I had had no words with her before.

George, I do not mind her having things in her craw against me but to deny my children food is crossing the line. I have instructed my children to stay clear of her and she better not cross my path. I’m very upset with the whole thing.

Fuming

Dear Fuming, You failed to responsibly handle the situation in the first place. You should never have left your children on their own; they are minors and need adult supervision.

Yes, your neighbour should not have refused food to your children but it was your actions that led them to your neighbour.

It would be good if you can make efforts to mend the relationship with your neighbour. You can begin by apologising for leaving your children in want of food and for putting them in a position where they had to be begging for food. You have compromised their security which is something that must never happen again.

Use this experience to evaluate your actions and think about what you could have done differently.

George

Same sex soul mate I have told him a thousand times I’m done MY HUSBAND and I are with the marriage and I’ve found my soul mate. going through a divorce We don’t live together after nine years of marriage. We no longer but he refuses to accept my position and have anything in continues to stalk and common. pester me. I can’t rest Truth is I have been in peace for him. I just dating a female now for 5 years. When he found want him to leave me alone. out he worked his way into sleeping with my Frustrated girlfriend’s sister and also found a way to sleep Dear Frustrated, with my girlfriend. He suggested that both my It is not as easy for girlfriend and me should some persons to simply move in with him and walk away from a live together as one. marriage after nine

Dear George,

years.

You have found a way to move on but your husband seems not to have been able to do likewise.

The stalking is not acceptable and if it does not stop then you can always involve the police for your own safety.

Advise your husband to find a way to move on and if he doesn’t, then the divorce when it becomes official should help him to get that message.

George

Threesome fallout Dear George, Regrets I EVENTUALLY gave in to my boyfriend insistence that we do a threesome with his best male friend.

For the next three weeks, he had been behind me to tell him who was better, he or his friend. I got so fed up with his question that I told him the truth… his friend was bigger and better.

Well that was it. He got mad and hit me and since then has been issuing death threats to me. I warned him that I would leave him but he got madder every time he heard that.

I am not with him anymore. To be honest I love him but his behaviour scares me. Should I just stay away from him or give him a chance to cool his head? What do you think?

Dear Regrets, It is never a wise thing to introduce a 3rd party into your relationship. Your boyfriend’s behaviour is driven by his insecurities and this will not change unless he gets professional help.

If you are seriously thinking of being with him then I strongly suggest both of you get some relationship counselling.

Having said that I have a feeling that the genie has already escaped and would not be easily put back into the bottle.

George

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Love relationships will flourish. Ask those in key positions to help you overcome the delays and to support your concerns in order to move on. You might not be as reserved on an emotional level as you'd like.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) You will be tempted to shop till you drop.

Don't get involved in joint ventures. Your ability to be a self-starter will help get things done and motivate others. You won't be well received by superiors or by your spouse.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Matters pertaining to work must be completed before you leave. You need to take some time out to decide what you want to do. You will have to be careful not to fall into traps set by jealous colleagues.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You will be viewed as a sensitive, compassionate individual and others will ask you for advice. You will not be able to trust someone you work with. You should feel a little more stable about your position; however, don't be surprised if a job offer comes your way.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Exercise discipline when it comes to controlling bad habits. Sudden good fortune will help you cover your debts.

You may be overly emotional when dealing with your mate. Travel and learning should be on your agenda this week.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You may have difficulty trying to get your mate to understand your position. You can get a great deal accomplished if you bring work home. Communication will be your strong point and you should be able to persuade others to see things your way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Stubborn about making changes around your home. Don't let your personal dilemmas interfere with your goals.

Changes at home might come fast and furious. Try not to use emotional blackmail; it will only make matters worse.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Accept the inevitable, and opportunities for advancement will follow. Take advantage of your attPut your plans into motion by presenting your intentions to those who should be able to give you financial support.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Catch up on your reading and correspondence. This is probably causing upset and confusion on the home front.

Stick to travel or do things in conjunction with groups. Relationships will become stronger.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You will learn a great deal from the foreigners you meet. Don't be afraid to make additions to your house. Don't blow situations out of proportion. Business trips will be more productive than trying to fight the red tape facing you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Rewards, gifts, or money from investments or taxes can be expected.

Don't make large purchases or investments. Don't hesitate to take short trips. Avoid any intimate involvements with coworkers or employers.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Pleasure trips will induce exciting and passion ate encounters with those of foreign extraction. You need to challenge yourself. Throw yourself into your profession. Get on with business.

ACROSS 1. Bell ___ 4. Figure out 9. Fruits 14. Rage 15. Pitch 16. Gear computation 17. Big Yellow flowers 20. “Catch!”

21. Per ___ 22. Loose 26. Siesta takers 31. Liq. measures 32. Father’s day bane 34. Predicament 35. Sometime in the future 37. Units in physics 38. Large shrubs with large flowers 42. Often needed for purchase 43. Stockpile 44. Life’s work 47. Darkens 48. Internet provider 51. “J’accuse” subject 53. Smaller 55. Fourth of July sight 57. Aerospace educator, DeVore 58. Often known as aster 65. Bengali language group 66. No-no 67. Air-show formation 68. Try 69. Sneezer 70. Freakish

12. Former space station 13. Call for help 18. Originally 19. Grazing lands 23. Just barely 24. “Chinese” word form 25. Flip result 27. Before surgery 28. Clear 29. Fixes, in a way DOWN 30. 116 is one 33. Golfer Sam 1. CEO, for example 35. Bank contents 2. Familiarize 36. Place to 3. Ring stones hammer 4. Concorde or Tupolev? metals 5. Photo __ (PR events) 38. React angrily 6. Lucy of “Charlie’s 39. Rabbit’s cousin Angels”, 2000 40. Actress Moore 7. Peddle 41. Reddish-brown 8. Small and charmingly spritely 42. Technology 9. Immediate that uses 10. Murphy’s ___ polarized light 11. SUV (abbr.)

45. Wipe out 46. Govern 48. They sang with Streisand 49. Felt 50. Said a rosary 52. Sprinkles 54. Kind of party 56. Fed 58. Baseball

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022.19.

equipment 59. Put ___ good word for 60. Parts of finan portfolios 61. Successful Broadway play 62. Blood system 63. Small amount 64. “i” lid

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20. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

Vincy Heat facing relegation Cornelius Stewart – pulled one back for Vincy Heat.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES’ Senior Male Football team Vincy Heat remained rooted at the bottom of Group C of League B of the Concacaf Nations League, following a 4-1 defeat to Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors last Monday, June 13, at the Haseley Crawford Stadium in Trinidad.

A brace by Noah Powder and one each from Judah Garcia and John Paul Rochford accounted for the Soca Warriors’ tally, while Cornelius Stewart scored the consolation goal for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Garcia got the Trinidadians going with a goal in the 8th minute, before Powder registered in the 11th and 41st minutes. Stewart had given the Vincentians hope

defeat to the Bahamas on 3rd June.

The Vincentians have nine months to regroup, as the next set of matches will be played in March 2023.

It simply means they have to gain full points over the Bahamas, and hope that the Bahamas does not upend Trinidad and Tobago.

To add to the mix, St. Vincent and the Grenadines faces leaders -Nicaragua in Nicaragua in the return leg, when the Nations League resumes.

The full Vincentian football contingent that tasted defeat in Trinidad and Tobago last Monday.

Nicaragua leads the group with 10 points, Trinidad and Tobago is second on 9, when he had pulled a goal Warriors had inflicted a 2-0 Port of Spain.

Bahamas on 3 points and back in the 26th minute. defeat on them, here at the As it stands, the Rochford iced the proceeding Arnos Vale Playing Field, Vincentians with one point are St. Vincent and the Grenadines- 1. with an injury time (91st Friday 10th June. facing relegation to League C The winner of the group minute) goal.

This defeat at meant that for the next edition of the gets promotion to League A Monday’s win for Trinidad the host remained on one League. That one point was and Tobago rubbed further point from three matches and garnered from a 2-2 draw with and a direct ticket to the Concacaf Gold Cup, while the agony in the Vincentians’ run this was extended when the Nicaragua on Monday, in the group, as the Soca two teams met on Monday in 6th June. That followed a 1-0 last place team is demoted to League C.

SVG volleyballers to defend EC title Franklyn and Delshun Welcome.

The six will be complemented by Jamaar Cropper, Joshou Ollivierre, Marville Williams, Shadron Delpesche and Shemor Baynes.

Eardley Martin will serve as Manager and will double up with coaching duties, in which he will be supported by Romanian- born FIVB Coach- Dan Girlenau.

Girlenau has been assigned to the SVG Volleyball Association (SVGVA) for the past two months.

Completing the Vincentian travel Players at a recent practice session at the Girls’ High School hard court. contingent is RefereeDuane Daniel.

ST. VINCENT AND THE Association (ECVA) advantage, six players Before heading to GRENADINES Senior champions. who helped lift the title Antigua and Barbuda, Men’s Volleyball outfit The Championship in 2018 in Grenada are the volleyballers will be will head out to Antigua will be played from July still in the loop. in a camp over the and Barbuda next month 7 — 10, at the YMCA They are Daryl Carnival weekend. to defend their turf, as Indoor Facility in St. Franklyn, Asmond According to Martin, reigning Eastern John’s.

Franklyn, Jahmal Small, “We are having the camp Caribbean Volleyball To the Vincentians’ Jad Martin, Ronaldo

Right: Eardley Martin, President of the SVG Volleyball Association and coach of the team, said the ‘carnival Weekend Camp’ is aimed at, among other things, encouraging bonding among the players.

from Friday, 1st July, to Carnival Monday, and this is to fine-tune the team’s tactics, as well as to provide bonding among the players.”

Martin, who was the team’s Head Coach when St. Vincent and the Grenadines won the title almost four years ago, believes his charges have the artillery to retain their status as the number one male team in the ECVA setup.

He, however, is mindful that others will be targeting St. Vincent and the Grenadines, given the team’s rise in the last Tournament.

Coach Dan Girlenau has been on the ground in SVG for the last two months and would have had an opportunity to work with some of the national players ahead of the Championship.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. 21.

Sports

Special Olympians return with medals IT WAS ANOTHER successful outing for Special Olympics SVG athletes when a team of four

Competitors in Tennis, Ornoro John (left) and Natasha Doyle.

combined to cop a silver medal in the doubles.

John played his way to a silver in the singles while Doyle earned a fourth place in her singles outing.

The athletes were accompanied by: Woodrow ‘Keylee’ Williams — Bocce coach; Roxann Williams — Tennis coach; Team Doctor Frank Joseph; and National Director Special Olympics SVG - Sezevra Joseph.

Joseph was pleased with the team’s exploits.

“Special Olympics St. Vincent and the Grenadines was part of the Sezevra Joseph Caribbean National Director Special contingent that Olympics SVG – attended the USA travelled with the team Games. It is the and was pleased with the first time the athletes’ performances Caribbean team is given the long layoff participating in from completion. the USA Games.

returned home from the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida, June 5-10, with a haul of five medals, including one gold.

The team competed in two events — Bocce and Tennis.

The Bocce team of Terrence Davis and Gamal Antoine accounted for the gold medal.

This, after Davis had earned a silver medal and Antoine a bronze, each having contested three individual games.

The tennis team of Natasha Doyle and Ornoro John

So, I am really pleased with the performance after the long break from competition,” she said on her return.

She added, “I must also credit the coaches for the work they continue to put in with the athletes and the others who are involved in the process.”

Local Special Olympiads now look to their next outing in June 2023, in Germany, where they are expected to add athletics (track and field) and swimming to the list of events in which they will compete.

I.B.A. ALLEN

(L-R): The Bocce team of Terrence Davis, Gamal Antoine and Woodrow ‘Keylee’ Williams (coach).

U15 female footballers in Concacaf’s League C ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES Under-15 female footballers are in League C of the 2022 CONCACAF Girls’ Championship set to take place from July 31 to August 7, at the Hillsborough County Tournament Sportsplex in Tampa, Florida, United States.

League C features the lowest ranked teams in Concacaf and also includes Anguilla, Aruba, Belize, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Turks and Caicos Islands, and US Virgin Islands.

The championships, which is considered purely developmental, will involve 31 teams and one guest team.

Making up League A are

the seven highest ranked teams Canada, Costa Rica, Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, United States - and the guest nation.

League B is composed of the next 12 best ranked teams: Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guyana, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago.

Competition Format Within each League, the participating teams will be divided into groups of four

teams each. After round robin play, the two group winners and second place finishers of League A will advance to the knockout stage and will play for the tournament’s championship.

For Leagues B and C, the three group winners and the best second place finisher will advance to the semifinals of their respective League.

Furthermore, the remaining

teams in each League will dispute an additional match for final position in the competition.

The knockout stage of each League will be disputed in a single match direct elimination format, beginning with the semifinals, followed by a final and third place match.

With this format, each League will crown a Champion

Football returns to Buccament

FOOTBALLERS in the Buccament and surrounding Eight teams are down to compete across senior areas are anxiously looking forward to displaying and junior divisions. their skills in the 2022 edition of the Buccament In the invitational opening match, Layou FC and Football Competition.

Campdonia Chelsea FC played to a 3-all draw in an The Competition opened last Sunday at the Hope Under-17 encounter.

Playing Field.

Joesollo McKie- President of the Buccament Football Committee expressed delight with the reopening of the League.

“We were out of competition for about three years prior to the pandemic and since I took over Presidency, I vowed to get football back in the Valley,” he admitted.

The competition will cater to clubs affiliated to the SVGFF and those based in the area, McKie disclosed.

On a broader note, McKie is hoping the competition will offer some positives especially to the Action in the opening game youths.

“I am hoping the between Competition will help to Layou FC and keep them out of trouble Campdonia by occupying some of their Chelsea FC.

Prospective Under-15 female footballers during a recent session at the Sion Hill Playing Field. and guarantee that every participating team plays a minimum of four competitive matches.

Concacaf is expected to announce the groups and schedule in the upcoming weeks.

Joesollo McKie President of the Buccament Football League is pleased that football returns as a choice for young persons in the area.

down time. This area is known for a certain level of crime so if we can occupy the youths from a young age, it would be a positive for me and a game changer,” he shared.

He also stressed that there was no want of talent in the “valley’ and that the organisers were looking to get the youth players back into the national set up.

The football administrator also expressed the hope to see the Leagues on the Leeward side reactivated, and if not, at least an All-Leeward competition that will involve competition at the under-15/17 and senior males and among the females.

McKie is thankful for the support from the SVG Football Federation, from within the Buccament Valley, and his committee.

I.B.A. ALLEN

V

22. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 . THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Commitment and determination WITH JUST enough time to lick the wounds, the West Indies cricketers move into another aspect of their tour almost unnoticed. By today, the first Test of the Bangladesh tour will be into its second day. Given the pace with which events can unfold, it is not abnormal for things to happen over short periods of time.

The West Indies surrendered to Pakistan in the One Day International series. They ought to have made a better representation.

One will have to realise that cricket is not an exercise in imagination. One does not rest on laurels either, or sit back and be satisfied with a glorious performances whether they hover often or infrequently. Cricket is a deep-rooted team sport and the each member of the team has to know his role.

There can be no weak link in the chain. Any chink in the armoury is an exposure to ruins so we must be on guard to strengthen them.

The same thing has to be said about our Concacaf Nation’s League campaign.

Flashes of brilliance don’t win matches. The reality is that goals count. No matter how crude, infrequent or untimely the opportunity comes, teams have to convert.

Vincy Heat has to dig deep to shrug off the relegation bug looms as we come closer to the end of the first round campaign. There has to be a level of consistency at the top, and we must take measures to ensure any tendency towards declining returns.

Those come with commitment and dedication.

The path to development is filled obstacles and disappointments, but the hardships often provide the experiences for future reference.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if success does not come overnight. There is still time to finetune the product, so when the results are attained, you will be more appreciative of the uneven road to the pinnacle.

Sometimes the changes in life are so small that they escape even the keenest observers. Ever so often, we are so caught up with the grandeur and delusions that we overlook the basics and dwell on aspects of no relevance to present or future endeavours.

When the time comes, the reality dawns on us, and we have to face it. There is no time for groaning, for the pain would have taken its tool.

Matters iron out themselves, so be prepared for the music. And face the consequences of our actions.

There is nothing novel about anything. Check the history and you place in the unfolding patter.

The input you make will determine the shaping of the nation.

Don’t expect reward for your sacrifice. When it comes, take it as the blessings for your commitment to the upliftment of humanity.

Bequia, Saints into T20 semi-finals KEEGAN’S BEQUIA ELEVEN and Guardian General Saints booked places in the semifinals of the NLA/Neil Williams T20 Cricket Competition, after convincing wins over the weekend.

Bequia defeated Flow Radcliffe by 4 wickets in the Ray Charles turned in quarterfinal at the enviable figure of Sion Hill, a win 3 wickets for 3 runs to many cricket Guardian General Saints help bowl Saints to followers good form. victory. considered an upset as Radcliffe went into the game unbeaten and Ollivierre 2 for 26; Bequia 136 for 6 from 17 overs - Stowe 39 not was the favorite. out. Jenry Ollivierre 30, Joseph Scores: Radcliffe 135 from 17 overs - Romano Pierre 42, Tijourn Francois 22, Othneil Lewis 3 for 22.

Pope 25, Othneil Lewis 21, Saints beat Police One by 23 Chelson Stowe 5 for 15. Jenry runs at Sion Hill.

will be looking to maintain their

Scores: Saints 128 for 7 from 20 overs - Jeremy Haywood 45.

Parnell Browne, Gerald Gould and Vertil Davis 2 wickets each; Police One 105 for 9 from 20 overs - Peter Morris 28. Ray Charles 3 for 3, Haywood 2 for 13.

In a final round robin match at Arnos Vale, Smashers beat Victors Two by 66 runs.

Keegan’s Bequia Scores: Smashers 198 for 6 Eleven will be from 17 overs - Rawdon looking to create Bentick 75, Kesworth more upsets.

Lewis 51, Dave Duncan 3 Chelson Stowe for 33; Victors Two 132 for who turned in a 6 from 17 overs - Travis winning all-round Cumberbatch 57. Anthony performance is Charles 3 for 36, Kurthlan pictured 3rd from Thomas 2 for 20. left back row.

Under-19 cricket squad reduced TRAINING for possible selection to the National Under-19 Cricket team began some months ago with a squad of 35 players.

As of last weekend, after a series of classroom sessions and at least two full trial matches, that number was reduced to 18 as the selectors begin a more intense scrutiny of those players, towards selecting the final squad of 13.

The team is being prepared to defend this country’s title of the Windward Islands Under-19 Cricket Championship. This year’s championship is set for Dominica from July 4th to 14th, 2022.

The Championship makes a return after an absence of two years, occasioned by the Covid19 pandemic.

The squad of eighteen reads: Ethan Gibson, Reshawn Lewis, Luke Wilson, off Solomon Bascombe, Kirtney spinner, led the Franklyn, Kodi Grant, Coby other trial match Dabreo, Devonte McDowald, team.

Luke Wilson, Ian Gonsalves, Kevin Shallow, Joe Williams, Mario Baptiste, Renally Hillocks, Elron Glasgow, Javan Richardson, Reshawn Newton Browne, Lewis – Jordan Charles, wicketand Watson keeper/batsm Seaton. an was selected to Stories by lead one of I.B.A. ALLEN the trial match teams.

National Under-19 Players taking part in a fielding drill last Saturday.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022. 23.

Classifieds

JESTINA MELDA ALVIS KENTON MATTHIAS Sunday, 11th June, 2022 Emmanuel Baptist Church South Rivers Viewing: 12:30 p.m.

Service: 1:30 p.m.

DEACONESS ANESTA THEODORA 2¶*$552 Sunday, 12th June, 2022 St Bethel Spiritual Baptist Church Chateaubelair Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 12:00 noon Interment: Fitz Hughes Cemetery

Saturday, 11th June, 2022 St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church Viewing: 11:00 a.m.

Service: 12:00 noon Interment: Colonarie Cemetery

PASTOR BENJAMIN CHRISTIAN JACK Sunday, 12th June 2022 &KXUFK RI *RG of Prophecy Victoria Village Viewing: 12:30 p.m.

Service: 1:30 p.m.

Interment: St. Joseph Cemetery Stubbs

WITHFIELD EZEKIEL HARRY Sunday, 12th June, 2022 S.D.A Church Mesopotamia Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Dumbarton Cemetery

ENID WILLIAMS a.k.a. Enid Peters Saturday, 11th June, 2022 New Testament &KXUFK RI *RG Lowman Leewards Viewing: 10:00 a.m.

Service: 11:00 a.m.

Interment: Lowmans Leewards Cemetery

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FRIDAY, JUNE

17, 2022

VOLUME 116, No.24

www.thevincentian.com

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DPP TO DECIDE ON WEEKESÊ CASE

Commissioner of Police (CoP) Colin John, said on the WE FM Issue at Hand programme of June 12 that the file, representing the finding of an investigation by the police, had been sent to the DPP’s The death of 18-year-old CJae Weekes did office. not escape the attention of the public with Back in March, the CoP had many persons pointing to the police as indicated that an investigation being responsible for his death. was ongoing into the incident Stories by DAYLE DA SILVA and that the police were waiting on the medical report to complete the file IT IS NOW up to the Director of Public for submission to the DPP’s office.

Prosecutions (DPP)- Sejilla Mc Dowall, When the file was eventually to determine what action will be taken submitted, a request was made for as it relates to the death of 18-year-old some additional information — which Cjae Weekes.

John said was

provided.

“I know that was sent back, so the file is at the Office of the DPP, that is the information that I got,” he said.

“The office of the DPP will determine which action they intend to take,” John continued.

Weekes, 18 years old, died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, February 6. He had been warded there following injuries — including a broken spine which left him paralyzed from the chest down, a broken leg and multiple bruises about the body — said to have been sustained as a result of a police chase on February 2 between Questelles and Vermont, in which he

and another young man were involved.

They were both riding their motorcycles.

Relatives maintained that Weekes was run over by the police transport, but the police refuted the claim with the CoP saying that both riders were riding in a reckless manner.

The matter attracted much public furor and there were numerous calls for an independent investigation.

Those calls reached the ears of Prime Minister Dr. ralph Gonsalves who in turn called on the police to investigate the matter thoroughly, and for there to be a Coroner’s Inquest into the youth’s death.

COP BLAMES PRISON OFFICERS PRISON OFFICERS, in most instances, facilitate the entry of mobile phones into the nation’s prisons.

So said this country’s Commissioner of Police (CoP), Colin John, while speaking on the We FM Views and Issues propgramme, June 12.

According to John, the number of mobile phones in prison was a worrying problem. In fact, he said further, there are concerns about the smuggling of illegal goods generally, into the prisons here.

He further disclosed that members of both the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and the Special Services Unit (SSU) conduct impromptu searches at the prisons.

One of those searches, John said, uncovered a mobile phone in a prisoner’s cell, which was searched

two days later and once again, a mobile phone was found.

It was therefore evident that prison officers were facilitating those transactions, John deduced.

“In fact, there is a prison officer who was arrested for an offence of that nature,” the CoP said in support of his deduction.

While not naming the offender or detailing the matter, it was common knowledge that that person was a former Prison Officer, Louie Cupid who was arrested, charged, convicted and sentenced to serve one year and eleven months for his role in assisting inmate Veron Primus’s escape in September 2019.

Primus escaped again in December 2020 and upon his re-arrest, was found with two Digicel SIM cards in his possession.

Commissioner John assured the

CoP Colin John (inset) made no bones about pointing fingers at Prison Officers as being complicity in the smuggling of items (including phones) into prison facilities here (H.M Prisons pictured). public that he was working with the Superintendent of Prisons to address the matter of smuggling goods into the prisons, with a view to stamp it our completely.

In the meantime, Police and Prison officers continue to address the issue of citizens throwing items over the perimeter walls into the Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown. A camera

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

surveillance system has been installed in this regard.

While the CoP did not specify with respect to which prison facility was the primary target of the smuggling, the public was left with the notion that much of what was referenced was done so in relation to Her Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, which is primarily a remand centre.

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