Issue September 28th 2012

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 28, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 39

www.thevincentian.com

Above: Members of the SSU take charge of a street in Paul’s Avenue.

Left: An officer examines the young marijuana plant discovered in a property in Paul’s Avenue.

Right: Those arrested were put under close guard by RRU officers.

EC$1.50

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2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Success for banana rehab effort

THE VINCENTIAN, Minister of Agriculture, The Ministry of Agriculture Saboto Caesar, noted has reported huge success During the fifteenthat several farmers in the fight against Black week period, while there have already started Sigatoka, so much so that were no shipments to the their own rehabilitation they have suspended United Kingdom, process on fields that ‘Operation Cut Back’.

WINFRESH was able to they had previously The main reason for abandoned. ship 151 tonnes of the suspension is that “The current analysis banana valued the low inoculums levels EC$105,642, to the at production levels for create an environment the period 2012 reflects regional market. where fields no longer the impact of ‘Operation ‘Operation Cut Back’ have to be destroyed but was launched on the Cut Back’, but the These healthy banana plants will return to SVG. This is the hope of Ministry can easily be quantities will 15th January, 2012; of Agriculture officials. rehabilitated. significantly increase in banana fields infested A report from the with the Black Sigatoka the last quarter of 2013,” replanted in June, when “The banana farmers Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Agriculture Caesar said. disease were destroyed, ‘Operation Plant Back’ of SVG continue to be has announced that regarding the banana The Minister disclosed was launched, and from and those deemed resolute (in their aerial spraying of the industry, from the period healthy were spared. that a significant plank the almost quarter commitment) to ensure banana fields will January to September After the fifteen-week of the production will million plantlets that the banana industry is resume in three weeks 2012, indicates that the period, the reports show come about from those will be imported from sustained,” Caesar said. time. ministry began tackling bananas that were that for the period Israel.

Meanwhile, the the Black Sigatoka beginning the week disease during the first ending April 21 to the fifteen weeks of the year. week ending September 15, a total of 27,765 cartons (527 tonnes), valued at EC$553,940 were exported from SVG

by HAYDN HUGGINS Vale. He was vice president and

by WINFRESH. president of the Students Guild Following the success ISRAEL BRUCE, a former there, and recalled being very of ‘Operation Cut back’, president of the National Youth argumentative. the Ministry of Council (NYC) and former vice“I remember one day we were Agriculture embarked on president of Caribbean having a debate on ‘School and ‘Operation Plant Back’.

Federation of Youth (CFY), is Society’, and we were looking at The process began in expected to be admitted to the the effectiveness of our early June, and was local bar soon. educational system, when the aimed at assisting Bruce, also a former primary tutor, Angela Martin, referred to farmers in replanting and secondary school teacher, was me as ‘a goat skin lawyer’,” Bruce their fields, through the called to the bar in the United recalled, adding, “I took it provision of 2 sacks of Kingdom, July 26, 2012, and is (comment) as a recognition that I fertilizer per acre to each currently pursuing pupilage at had some skill to articulate, and farmer. This support has the law firm of attorney Dr. it sort of cemented my position.” amounted to Linton Lewis.

Bruce hastened to add EC$$155,000.

Bruce told THE VINCENTIAN further,“My experience with the A total of 245,410 he understands he would have to youth movement would have banana plantlets are do six months of pupilage before contributed significantly to what I required to be planted. being admitted to the local bar. am today.”

Unfortunately, this He did one week of this in the UK Bruce, a product of the Lauders demand cannot be fully and is into its third week here. community, a farming village in met locally, and The former NYC chief, who the South Windward district, was permission is being was a school teacher from 1991 to also president of the Lauders Israel Bruce is working his way sought to purchase some 2003, during which he served at Cultural and Sports Club. He Saboto Caesar, Minister 270,000 out of Israel. towards being called to the Bar. the Greggs Primary, Lauders pursued his law degree by of Agriculture, is Primary and North Union distance learning done through optimistic that banana Professional Training Course Caesar: Production will Secondary, thinks that he was Holbourne College and the production will show a (BPTC) at the University of West increase inspired, to some extent, to University of Wolverhampton in significant increase by England, which he completed become a lawyer, while attending the United Kingdom, between the end of 2013. earlier this year.

In a interview with the Teachers College at Arnos 2003 and 2007. He did his Bar

by KENVILLE HORNE

Exports to date

From youth organizer to lawyer

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 3.

News 3 Sri Lankan charged for murder of Vincentian

by NELSON KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

Jeannine James-Williams and son, Joshua Williams, in February 2010.

KINGSTOWN, before the Reclamation Scheme of the 19870s, was open to the sea. It boasted a stretch of beach of rich volcanic sand and calm waters, making it ideal for landing of the many

POLICE IN MONTREAL, Canada, say they have arrested and charged a Sri Lankan youth in the stabbing murder of a Vincentian teen over a year ago.

Police said Abiram Subramaniam, 19, faces first degree murder in the death of Joshua Williams, 18, in Cote des Neiges, Montreal, on March 22 last year.

A team of homicide and major crimes officers apprehended Subramanim in St. Laurent, Montreal, on the night of September 13, police said.

They said the detectives pulled over Subramaniam while driving. He was arraigned on Sept. 14.

Police said Williams — the only child of Jeannine JamesWilliams, originally from the North Leeward town of Chateaubelair, and Dr. Basil Williams, a semiretired geneticist and plant breeder, of New Montrose, Kingstown — had attempted to break up a quarrel between three young men that

escalated in an indoor parking lot of Cote-desNeiges Plaza, when he received the fatal injuries.

“I feel a bit relieved,” Mrs. James-Williams told THE VINCENTIAN in an exclusive telephone interview from Montreal, where she now resides, about Subramaniam’s arraignment.

“The idea of him (alleged assailant) being out there without any consequence was not a right one,” added the former Cable & Wireless (LIME) staffer.

“Regardless, nobody has the right to take the life of another; and, if somebody willfully takes the life of another, they should be held accountable,” she continued.

Mrs. James-Williams said she hopes justice, “within the framework of what we have in Canada”, will prevail, stating that sentencing in Canada is more lenient than in the United States. In addition, she said Canada, unlike the US, “makes more room for rehabilitation.

“It’s early days yet in the process,” said the Girls High School

alumna. “A trial can go either way, but I hope it reflects the reality of laws.”

Mrs. JamesWilliams said that Joshua had just received his driver learner’s permit, and was driving for the first time, when he was killed in the underground parking lot.

“He died trying to save the life of a friend, who was with a friend,” she said. “He was learning to drive, and that day was the first on the road, and he was excited,” she added.

Mrs. James-Williams said there was “every indication” that the identity of the assassin was known to Joshua’s friend, but stated that “a code of silence” was hampering the investigation.

Abiram Subramaniam was apprehended more than a year after the crime was committed.

She said Joshua’s unidentified friend and the suspect, believed to be intoxicated at the time, are from the same close-knit Sri Lankan community.

Police swarm in on ‘Hot Spots’

by KENVILLE HORNE

From Page 1

SCORES OF POLICE OFFICERS from the Special Services Unit (SSU), Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and the Criminal Investigation Division (CID), during the mid-afternoon hours of Wednesday 26th September, moved into perceived ‘crime hot spots’ around capital Kingstown, in an operation aimed, sources say, at ridding the streets of illegal weapon and drugs.

Residents watched from their windows while others took to the streets in Rose Place and Paul’s Avenue, as police searched abandoned buildings and persons ‘hanging out on the blocks’.

Some persons were heard expressing anger at the fishing boats. manner in which the police approached and The photography displayed captures the area of searched persons, suggesting that not everyone the market which, first half of the 20th century, supported the operation. with its open access to the sea, allowing for easy One witness reflected on the moment the police berthing of the fishing boats, showed up. “I was sitting on the block when I saw a none powered by motors, each police transport coming up the road. Suddenly I making use of sails to capture the wind which propelled it from heard a police siren and another jeep instantly arrived. The police them start jump out the jeep, shore to open ocean and back. start behaving real wild with them gun and started It was always a peiod of harassing people. Dem na even have no warrant heightened activity when the but dem want to go in people place.” fishermen landed their catch, In Paul’s Avenue, police arrested three people, and in the open, bargained for including a female, and uncovered a small quantity the best deals for their catch. of marijuana, along with a healthy young marijuana Rest assured, many of the boats left Kingstown with ‘loads’ planet.

One resident of Paul’s Avenue also claimed the of provision and other supplies police confiscated a plastic bag with money. available only then in However, THE VINCENTIAN was unable to Kingstown. confirm this, since attempts to contact the Police Life was simple but called for Public Relations Office proved futile. hard and honest work during This is not the first time such an operation has those times. been carried out in the two Kingstown communities.

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4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Court

Burton’s cousin testifies against him Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS It took the intervention of opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) member of Parliament, St. Clair Leacock, to calm down angry persons who were striking the main gate to the House of Assembly with a steel bar, during the NDP led march and rally in Kingstown, January 28, 2011, against two proposed laws.

That’s according to the testimony of prosecution witness Sergeant Ornan Jacobs, who told the Court he was the cousin of NDP South Windward candidate, Burton Williams, on Tuesday, September 25.

Williams, the unsuccessful South Windward NDP candidate in the December13, 2010 general elections, was charged with, that within the precincts of the House of Assembly behaved in a manner in which a breach of peace was likely to be occasioned, contrary to section 15 of the Public Order Act, chapter 396.

Williams was also charged, under section 315(1) of the Criminal Code, chapter 171 of the laws of SVG, with attempting to damage property.

Sergeant Jacobs, who is attached to the Special Services Unit (SSU) and stationed at the Old Montrose Police Station, said he was on duty at the House of Assembly on January 28, 2011, where parliament was in progress.

The police officer said that on

arrival, he observed a large crowd and a truck parked with a Public Address (PA) system in use, just outside the perimeter fence of the House of Assembly compound. There were also steel barriers on both sides of the road.

Sergeant Jacobs said he was about to place police officers in their respective positions when he heard the speaker, using a PA system, encouraging the crowd to ‘storm parliament’ and ‘stop the proceedings’.

Jacobs then left where he was standing and headed towards the main gate where he met Station Sergeant Samuel, and informed him of what was likely to happen.

“By that time, Your Honour, persons had already started to move towards the gate. I advised Station Sergeant Samuel to close the gates. He went to the eastern side of the compound and I proceeded, with the assistance of other police officers, to close the main gate,” Sergeant Jacobs recalled.

A show of force

The SSU officer added that while they were closing that gate, persons from the crowd held onto the gate and began pushing it inwards.

“We were still able to keep the gate intact. I then observed several persons holding on to one of the steel bars, and I recognized Burton Williams as one of those persons holding on to the bar,” Jacobs continued.

He explained that the steel bars were put in place by the SSU, to keep persons from flocking in front of the entrance to the House of Assembly.

“Persons who were holding on to the steel bar, including the defendant, struck the gate with the steel bar, pushing us backwards.

We continued to hold on to the gate while they continued to strike the gate. On realizing that they were unable to get through with sufficient force, they went further back. By that time, most of the policemen removed themselves from the gate,” Sergeant Jacobs testified.

Burton Williams (left) in conversation with The police officer said colleague Venold Coombs after last Tuesday’s he remained there, but on hearing.

realizing that the policemen in the area could have been injured, he drew his pistol, pointed it at the aggressors, and ordered them to stop.

“Some persons wanted to continue, but were unsure. Your Honour, at that moment, the representative for Central Kingstown, St Clair Leacock, came and spoke to them. They then calmed down, placed the bar on the ground and walked away,” Sergeant Jacobs recollected.

it was daylight and nothing was obstructing his view. He described the crowd as aggressive and very noisy.

Despite the many people around him, Jacobs said he was able to identify the speaker because Williams was standing in a truck with a microphone in his hand, and he (Jacobs) was standing in the road opposite the truck.

Jacobs was among five police officers to have testified on Tuesday, including Acting Deputy Commissioner Michael Charles, who Witness certain wasSsuperintendent of Police at the Responding to questions from time of the protest, and was the officer Crown Counsel Colin John, Sergeant in charge of the police officers on duty Jacobs said he was Burton Williams’ in front of the House of Assembly. cousin and knew him from since he The hearing is expected to continue was a little boy. today (Friday) when defence counsel “You sure that the person you saw Andreas Coombs will continue his that day was Mr. Burton Williams?” cross examination of Corporal Wilma Crown Counsel Colin John asked.

Black Williams of the Major Crime “I am positive, Your Honour,” Unit (MCU), following which the Jacobs replied. prosecution is expected to call its final “What part of his body you saw that witness, the arresting officer Wilisford day?” the Crown Counsel further Caesar, who was at the time of the asked. protest Assistant Superintendent and “I saw his whole body,” Jacobs said. Head of the Criminal Investigation The SSU officer also told the Court Department (CID), now retired.

Magistrate makes a distinction “Storming parliament is not controlling parliament.”

Senior Magistrate Donald Browne made the point on Tuesday, September 25 at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court while presiding over the trial of opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate Burton Williams.

Williams was charged with attempting to damage property and behaving in a manner likely to occasion breach of peace. The charges stemmed from an NDP led protest in front of the House of Assembly against two proposed laws.

Under cross-examination by defence counsel Andreas Coombs, Sergeant Ornan Jacobs of the Special Services Unit (SSU) said Williams was saying, “The bills in the parliament, we must stop them. We have to go inside there and stop them from passing these bills.”

Coombs, however, suggested to Sergeant Jacobs, “Mr. Williams did not say, ‘we have to go in there’,” as suggested.

“I am suggesting to you that Mr. Williams was saying that, ‘we have to take control of parliament’.”

Coombs went on to ask the witness, “How many seats the government has and how many seats the opposition has?”

Crown Counsel Colin John objected to the question.

“I don’t see the relevance in this question,” he intervened. He reminded the Court of Williams’ charges.

Defence attorney Andreas Coombs and crown Counsel Colin John (foreground) leaving the court last Tuesday.

the government was to lose, …?”

But the Crown Counsel rebutted sharply, “Hypothetical question,” before the defence lawyer could complete the question.

“You cannot ask his opinion,” Magistrate Browne told Coombs.

“This is a mathematical thing,” Coombs replied, and went on to ask the witness, “If the government were to lose a seat and the opposition was to gain a seat, then the opposition would be in control of the parliament?”

Sergeant Jacobs replied in the affirmative.

“This is not a question of controlling Senior Magistrate allows leeway parliament,” the Magistrate The Senior Magistrate, in response intervened and reminded Coombs of to the objection, explained, “It is cross- what his client was charged with.

Coombs told the Court the examination. If he (counsel) goes out transcript referred to taking control of of line, somebody has to bring him back, and that somebody is me. Cross- parliament and Sergeant Jacobs also referred to Williams as saying words examination has its leeway, but it is to that effect. He indicated that for the judge to bring it back on Williams could have meant taking stream.” control by electoral means.

The Magistrate said that since it But the Magistrate explained, was the opposition staging a protest march and rally, “I don’t see anything “Storming the parliament does not mean controlling parliament. If they wrong with asking the question. It (crowd) go in there and kick out wouldn’t help the case in any way.”

Coombs then asked Jacobs, “Now if everybody, it does not mean they would control parliament.”

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 5.

Regional

‘Canadian visa policy unfortunate,’ says St. Lucia Grenadines and St. Lucia now need a visa to enter the country.

Kenny said the new requirement also covers THE ST. LUCIA citizens from Namibia, GOVERNMENT has joined its Botswana and Swaziland.

Vincentian counterpart and St. Lucia’s Acting Press Vincentians in the United Secretary Winston States in describing as an Springer said the Kenny “unfortunate blow” the Anthony administration is Canadian government’s recommending that decision to impose new visa Canada address, “in a requirements for St. Lucian collaborative manner, the and Vincentian nationals issue of security and entering Canada. immigration violations, Canada’s Citizenship, which is a mutual concern Immigration and to both countries.

Multiculturalism Minister “St. Lucians and, Jason Kenney recently indeed, the Prime announced that nationals Minister believe the from St. Vincent and the Canadian government will

by Nelson A. King naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

Another Minister deserts Thomas AlREADY FACING SEVERE DISSENSION in his National Democratic Congress (NDC) government which included a motion of no confidence filed by a party colleague and former member of cabinet, Grenada’s Tillman Thomas has received another ‘upper cut’ to his hold on the position of Prime Minister in Grenada.

On September 21, not more than three days after Parliament was prorogued, Glynis Roberts, Environment Glynis Roberts is the Minister, handed in her latest minister to resign resignation. from the Grenada Roberts’ resignation cabinet. follows those of Tourism Minister Peter David in April, and Foreign Minister Karl Hood in August.

Expectations of early general elections were heightened when Prime Minister Thomas directed the Governor General to prorogue Parliament indefinitely.

Observers though, read the proroguing to be more of Thomas’ response to a motion of no confidence filed by his former Foreign Minister. With parliament prorogued, it meant that the motion would not now be debated and another motion would have to be filed in the new Parliament.

Nonetheless, Grenadians are fever pitched and ready for elections.

Former Prime Minister of, and leader of the Opposition New National Party (NNP) Dr. Keith Mitchell has already expressed optimism about his chances of returning to the top position.

However, at least one observer feels that the Grenadian electorate is all but fed up with the NDC and the NNP, and is looking for something new.

There are 16 registered political parties in Grenada, according to Judy Benoit, Supervisor of Elections.

Rumours are rife that another party, which is expected to comprise former NDC government ministers, could be formed in time to contest the next general elections, which Grenadians expect to be held in 2013.

be aware that the problem of persons seeking entry to North America as a whole, has severely taxed the resources and capabilities of the government authorities here over the years,” he said in a statement.

“The fact is that a serious effort to inhibit these illegal activities would require extremely close co-operation between them, and our police and immigration officials, in circumstances albeit of strict confidentiality and with appropriate security

arrangements,” he added.

Springer said Castries is willing to enter into discussions with Ottawa in putting such initiative in place as quickly as possible, “and awaits further discussions and an appropriate response from the government of Canada.

“While it is true that the current law allows St. Lucians to adopt new names by Deed Poll, and that includes those who may have been convicted of crimes, the vast majority of St. Lucians

who travelled to Canada had safe, reliable and secure documents,” he said.

“The statement by Canada is unfortunate as it could create unfair and undue suspicion about travel documents held by St. Lucians, with the accompanying extreme personal discomfort that such situations can entail,” he added.

Springer said Anthony “will shortly be dispatching a letter to the Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper urging

Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony will soon be writing the Canadian Prime Minister to request a repealing of the visa policy. him to reconsider the decision of the Government of Canada.

“The two countries have shared exceedingly close ties for many years,” he said.

T&T Justice Minister fired HERBERT VONLEY has been dismissed as Minister of Justice in Trinidad and Tobago.

Vonley, a former Justice in that Caribbean Republic, was fired last week Thursday for what is reported as having deceived the cabinet over a law that could have allowed charges to be dropped against more than a dozen people, who face corruption charges in that twin island republic.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar made the announcement of Vonley’s dismissal in a nationwide television and radio address.

She said, in no uncertain terms, that Vonley had deceived the government by “assuring the cabinet that the proclamation of the new law had been approved by the country’s Chief Justice and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).”

She declared: “The Hon Minister of Justice had a duty to faithfully and accurately represent the position and views of the Honorable Chief Justice and the DPP. He failed to do so and the Cabinet relied and acted on his assurances in good faith. His failure to do so is a serious misrepresentation and amounts to material nondisclosure of relevant facts to the Cabinet which effectively prevented it from making an informed decision.”

Reports coming out of Trinidad and Tobago said that Vonley admitted, in a meeting on the said Thursday, that he had erred.

The law at the centre of the controversy is the Administration of Justice (Indictable proceedings) Act which came into effect at the end of August. It established a statute of limitation for alleged crimes more than ten years old, in effect allowing people, whose trial has not started after a 10-year period, to walk free and a verdict of not guilty entered against them.

Parliament met in an emergency session last week to repeal the controversial clause.

The opposition in the Trinidad Parliament, led by the People’s National Movement, had voiced their concern about the clause which they saw, among others things, as assisting businessmen Ishwar Galbaransingh and Steve Ferguson, who are wanted in the United States on corruption

Herbert Vonley had courted controversy from the time he left the bench to become a candidate in T&T’s last general elections. charges related to the construction of a billion dollar international airport in Trinidad.

Galbaransingh and Steve Ferguson, who have been described as financiers of the ruling United National Congress (UNC), the biggest

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bessessar took decisive action. partner in the fourmember coalition People’s Partnership government, have been facing fraud and laundering charges relating to the redevelopment of the Piarco International Airport in 2001.

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6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

News

Speaker angry over bomb threat

serves as the House of Assembly and SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE, accommodates the Hendrick Alexander has Speaker’s office, were deemed bogus calls of ordered to evacuate the bomb threats as premises after police unnecessary and notified that they had unhelpful. received a call, stating On Tuesday afternoon, that a bomb has been persons employed at and planted in the building. using the services of the Members of the Bomb Court House, which also Unit of the Royal SVG

by KENVILLE HORNE

Police Force went into action and conducted a thorough search of the building.

The search was discontinued after some two hours. Nothing suspicious was discovered.

The Speaker of the House, told THE VINCENTIAN that he

Police immediately moved to evacuate the building and lock down the precincts of the Court House.

Inset: Hendrick Alexander, Speaker of the House, was angry that some persons had found it ‘a joke’ to make a bomb threat. was in his office around 2pm when one of his clerks informed him that the police had received news that a bomb had been planted at the Court House. He was asked to leave the building .

“While I thought it was a hoax, I can’t be reckless, so I just moved out,” the Speaker said.

“Apart from the psychological effects that these things have, they also set you back in terms of your work. I was trying to do research on a matter, and I had to abruptly leave it,” Alexander complained.

Continuing his disgust, the Speaker said that “persons have to ponder as to whether the police have done a complete search, and even when you are back inside, you have to wonder if a bomb really would go off.”

The Speaker wondered aloud about what could be done to limit these threats of what very often turns out to be bogus calls.

“I am wondering if our technology is not so advanced, so that we might be able to trace a lot of these calls,” and referred to the calls as “unnecessary and unhelpful.”

He noted that there was need for laws to be enacted to tackle the issue, “but persons might claim it’s infringing on their privacy, then they

start talking about human rights and all kind of rights.”

The Speaker, though, was quick to reject the suggestion of phone tapping. “I am not referring to phone tapping, but a system where you can go and check the previous calls; but I don’t think I will be excited about phone tapping.”

And in a firm tone, he stated, “ I think the persons who are doing these things should be found and dealt with

very seriously.”

The speaker was among many who used the yard of the Court House for parking, but who were not allowed to move their cars before a search by the Bomb Unit, for fear that this might trigger the bomb.

This is the second bomb threat at the Court House that the Speaker could remember. “The first was during a budget debate a few years ago,” he recalled.

Workers, including Nicole Herbert, theClerk of the House (right), took refuge outside the Kingstown Vegetable Market.

Members of the SSU searched the yard of the Court House for anything or anybody suspicious.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 07.

News

Free Burton

by KENVILLE HORNE

“FREE BURTON!!!”

That was the chant last Tuesday 25th from some of the supporters of Burton Williams, when he appeared at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

Williams, the NDP’s candidate for the South Windward constituency in the 2010 general elections, was charged for breaching the peace and attempting to damage property, during an NDP led protest on Friday January 28, 2011, outside the House of Assembly, Kingstown.

While the matter was being heard before Senior Magistrate Donald Browne, the placard-carrying supporters made their feelings known.

Yvonne Thomas, a shopkeeper from New Prospect and who appeared to have taken a leadership role on behalf of the supporters, claimed that the charges against Williams are politically motivated, since Williams was singled out from among the hundreds of persons present during the protest.

“I hear one of the police man who give statement against Williams told a lady, Burton didn’t do anything but he (the police man) is doing his job”, she said, adding that, “They are disgracing Burton.

Burton comes from a

good family. I know Burton from since I was a child and he is a very good man.”

A call for change of government Buoyed by the encouragement from her colleagues, Thomas soon moved into broader issues, some of which were reflected in slogans carried on the placards.

Thomas voiced a “belief” that the charges brought against Williams “are distraction from the poor state of SVG.” She explained that persons do not have money to purchase basic food items. “Vincentians are suffering. As a shopkeeper, I find it difficult to get sale. This is the hardest time in the country; the prime minister is killing Vincentians”.

She disclosed that some children in her community cannot attend school because the parents cannot “provide”, and called on Vincentians to “come together and do something about it.”

Thomas also expressed disgust with the high cost of living and the biased approach towards employment in and by government.

“If you want a job in St.Vincent, you have to get a Labour Party card.

Why you have to get a Labour Party card to get a job in St.Vincent the country of your birth?”

Thomas questioned.

She is therefore calling for a change of government, and brushed aside criticism that Eustace was not a good leader.

“Eustace is a professional, but they wouldn’t give Eustace a chance. Time to give the man a try,and they need to free Burton; they have Burton like he is some kind a scamp or some kind a jail man. Why they doing that to the man?” She queried.

Protesters, with Yvonne Thomas (2nd from right) in front of the Magistrate’s Court during the hearing of the case against Burton Williams.

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8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 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

A thought for the Minister of Agriculture ANYTIME THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE makes a public statement that reflects his sterling efforts to give leadership to the ‘rehabilitation of the banana industry’, and by extension the re-energising of the agriculture section in this country, it raises the pores of many who knew this country when agriculture was the mainstay, in the truest sense of the word, of this multi-island state’s economy.

Take it or leave it, agriculture continues to be the life thread of this nation and the majority of nations across this planet.

It is not just about how much of what we export, but equally so about to what degree we are able to feed ourselves.

That is why the men and women who continue to labour through all the challenges which currently pervade the industry, must be recognized as what they are: the pillars of the society.

And despite the decreasing share of agricultural GDP in the total national GDP, agriculture-led economic growth remains central to inclusive and accelerated growth in this country. Thus, if agriculture fails, everything else will fail, and there are those who say we are already at that point.

It is therefore, Bro Minister of Agriculture, that in accepting the portfolio, you have accepted to undertake the task of ensuring that agriculture remains central to this country’s growth and development.

One wants to give the Minister of Agriculture the benefit of the doubt and say that he recognizes that the rural and urban communities of this country are still critically dependent on sustained productivity growth in agriculture for their livelihoods.

Sadly, the Minister’s task is made even more herculean when one considers that the decelerated agricultural growth, (maybe truthfully it is more of a hastened decline) has caused marginalization of the rural population, widened urban-rural and inter-state divides, and created hot spots of acute distress, indebtedness, deprivation and crime.

For certain, the crisis in agriculture, more of a wide agrarian crisis, is attributed to several factors, inter alia: continuous decline in investment in agriculture; neglect of the interest of farmers; deterioration in terms of trade for agriculture; escalating food prices and general inflation; predominance of marginal and submarginal farmers; debt crisis, and stagnating farmers’ income Moreover, interventions (handouts) intending to increase net income of farmers, have failed to stimulate increased productivity and production.

But, as the opening paragraphs in this discourse purport, regardless of what state agriculture finds itself, in agricultural development is vital to St. Vincent and the Grenadines since a vast majority of the workforce derive their livelihood from it, whether directly or indirectly. It cannot be ignored and, in as much as there are those who would want to think that the creation of a technologically driven knowledge-based society with all its exciting trappings is their political salvation, agricultural remains pivotal to this country’s development and politics.

So the sooner we hear of a long term plan, one that is not afraid to take the chance of losing political power by those who advance it, the better served the Minister of Agriculture’s efforts would be.

Any plan, (and it must be a co-ordinated one, not one which in its implementation plays one party against another, one resource against another, one area of expertise against another) should include, in the humble opinion of this discourse, the following: (a) doubling the rate of growth of irrigated areas; (b) improving water management, rainwater harvesting and watershed development; (c) reclaiming degraded land and focusing on soil quality; (d) bridging the knowledge gap through effective extension; (e) diversifying into high-valued outputs, fruits, vegetables, flowers, herbs and spices, medicinal plants, bamboo, bio-diesel, but with adequate measures to ensure food security; (f) promoting animal husbandry and fishery; (g) providing easy access to credit at affordable rates; (g) improving the incentive structure and functioning of markets; and (h) refocusing on genuine land reform issues.

And as we close, we are reminded of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of modern India, who on the midnight hour of August 14-15, 1947, when reminded about Inda’s widespread poverty, the result of agricultural stagnation, remarked: “Everything else can wait, but not agriculture.”

Over to you, Bro Minister.

The broad sweep of the Canadian visa fiasco PATRIOTS OWE an eternal debt of gratitude to Luzette King and Douggie De Freitas for introducing our narrow world to a global perspective by way of broadcasts over Nice Radio.

The matter of the Visa requirement has only been the most informative so far, and the most recent with far-reaching consequences.

Most Vincentians were really impressed with the knowledge, views, and delivery of Tidy Francis (to be distinguished from another Francis) who had only been tapped the night before by Luzette and, in the circumstances had been a discovery and revelation even to Luzette.

God really moves in mysterious a way, his wonders to perform.

The seventy-one years old Afro American came from a generation of West Indians who were challenged in Canada in the decade 19651975 and whose positive reaction to the Sir George Williams University demonstrations that partly gave rise on the local front to the formation of the Educational Forum of the People in May, 1969.

In fact, several sterling members of the E.F.P had been educated in Canada which they claimed as Blacks was no bed of roses. Parnel Campbell (first degree) Adrian Fraser (first and third degrees). Arnhim Eustace first and second degrees, John Cato, Kerwyn Morris and Alfie Roberts, among other Vincentians. The Canadian Chapters also included Tim Hector of Antigua and Rosie Douglas of Dominica who later became great friends of Ralph Gonsalves, our current Prime Minister. The much underrated Randy D had also been educated in Canada and added some spice to the program.

Indeed Tidy singled out Alfie Roberts for special mention, and bemoaned the fact that the Black Movement has dissipated since his death in 2006.

The foregoing is given only to stress the fact that we are aware that Blacks face problems in Canada; but our argument is that our country should be on its toes to ensure that we do not provide any country with legitimate excuses to shaft us.

In fact, the ULP Government has done nothing by way of damage control to ease the situation by promising corrective measures, except, according to Prime Minister Gonsalves, a “friendly” letter penned to his counterpart, the contents of which are too sacred to expose to his own citizens just yet.

Why on earth is the P.M fighting shy of an official visit to Canada, like the Devil ’fraid of Holy waters? He should take a leaf out of Kenny Anthony’s book and go preferably with him, and show the world the stuff that charisma is made of!

Within a day of Camillo’s commitment of a diplomatic gaffe at the U.N, an expedition of a constitutional-legal team, including Jomo Thomas, was in the making. Is this a demonstration of Gonsalves’ undying love for the poor of SVG, many of whom are literally saved by contact and communication with Canada?

Further, I make bold to suggest that Arnhim Eustace, the alternative leader, should be invited to participate in any talks on the Immigration policy, to assure the Canadian Government of our joint commitment to any new concessions that are hopefully granted.

All of this does not preclude us from preparing for the worst. It is decidedly not a question of doom and gloom. We will continue

to exist, though perhaps not live as human beings should. But if we band our belly, determined to make it, we shall survive with the hope that a change of government is effected sooner than later. After all, there is a sense in which Blacks still remain “The Wretched of the Earth”, despite the rhetoric to the contrary; but we have got to practise to be “our brother’s keeper”. The great paradox is that Gonsalves had warned Vincentians that a change of Government to the NDP could bring about the introduction of visa requirement to Canada!

Looked at from a different viewpoint, this binational process might have been obviated if the OECS or Caricom were one solid unified nation rather than a plethora of States speaking with so many tongues as far as foreign policy is concerned. But Caribbean people seldom see strength in unity, preferring to live like crabs in a barrel.

What is happening amounts to a late call for genuine political integration at the expense of talk-shops which our politicians take pride in running up.

Back to the main topic. It is clear that the Refugee issue is really a non-issue. The main problem has been the bogus or fraudulent issuance of our passports. It is even rumoured that Afghans, Iranians, Venezuelans and Georgians (from East Europe) and other nationals some of whom have never set foot in SVG, are proud owners of Vincentian Passports which offer them easy entry to Canada.

Of course, the issuance of illegal Passports has serious implications for our election system since anyone with a passport is eligible to vote!

On the other hand the Government of SVG downplays the passport issue, and trains its guns against the applicants for Refugee Status which presents a minor problem. In this way they can blame the Opposition for what turns out to be a nuisance, whereas they avoid the serious crime of falsifying travel documents which fall fully and squarely in the lap of the national Government.

Meanwhile, there are more than straws in the wind. Robertson, a star witness in a murder trial, was gunned down one hour after his release on remand for fictitious crimes. He left a sworn affidavit with his lawyers testifying that he had committed perjury owing to harassment by the police who by way of inducement had offered him a new passport (new names) and facilitation to travel either to Barbados or Canada where a sister lives.

The government has even given a cynical twist to the term that one makes hay while the sun shines. More questionable acts are being done while argument on the visa issue rages, and storm clouds gather.

Vincentians have been stunned by the official “quick-fix” treatment meted out in the death by shooting of three Venezuelans, “in international waters” while trading in “soappowders,” a considerable distance from their home.Officials of both countries have been said to having agreed to a settlement “two days” before a Court was scheduled for a hearing to which relatives of a customs officer drowned in the episode had not been made privy, while our DPP makes noises about Nolle Pros of an event at which no inquest had even been held.

Small wonder that a leading member of the Opposition, St Clair Leacock, has declared present-day SVG “A Failed State”.

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 9.

Views

Letter: Spin doctors on parade II (Reprinted from Caribbean News Now!)

On September 11, 2012, there was a news release entitled “Canada imposes visas on St Lucia, St Vincent, Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland”

by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

The news release stated as its key reason, “A key reason why the government has imposed visa requirements on St Lucia and St Vincent is unreliable travel documents. In particular, criminals from these countries can legally change their names and acquire new passports.

In some instances, people who were removed from Canada as security risks later returned using different passports. In the case of Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland, human trafficking, especially of minors, and fraudulent documents are of significant concern.”

On September 12, 2012, the original news release was updated to include an additional paragraph, “There has also been an unacceptably high number of asylum claims from St Lucia and St Vincent, with about one and a half percent and three percent of the population of these countries making asylum claims in Canada over the past five years. The African country that has

* Is there one speed limit for mini buses and another for everybody else through Kingstown? * When the cat is away the mice will play. Has anyone noticed what happens on our roads on Wednesdays, when ALL the traffic police find themselves at the Traffic Court? * Why was there no NDP support for Burton Williams when he first appeared in court? * Can we expect our country to vote to denounce President Assad of Syria at this round of the UN General Assembly? * Who is the liaise person for Club St. Vincent Inc that fouled up those visa applications for Starlift Steel orchestra?

the highest immigration violation rate is Namibia, with eighty-one percent in 2011. Seventy-one percent of travellers from Namibia made asylum claims in 2011.”

Well, the spin doctors from St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) are out again trying to convince the people of SVG and the world that Canada imposed visa requirements on SVG because of asylum/refugee claims.

When one looks at both releases, one can infer that calls were made in the diplomatic circles asking for the additional paragraph to be added in the second news release. Thus, 24 hours after the first news release, Canada updated its message.

If asylum/refugee claims were the main reason for the visa requirements, the initial news release and the updated news release would have emphatically stated that the key reason is asylum/refugee claims from SVG. Instead it says “A key reason why the government has imposed visa requirements on St Lucia and St. Vincent is unreliable travel documents. In particular, criminals from these countries can legally change their names and acquire new passports.

In some instances, people who were removed from

Canada as security risks later returned using different passports.”

It would have been just as easy for the updated news release to say, the key reasons are unreliable travel documents and asylum/refugee claims.

Similar to how the African countries reasons were stated in both releases (human trafficking, especially of minors, and fraudulent documents are of significant concern). But it did not!

So the question then becomes, why is there a concerted effort by the spin doctors to emphasize the asylum/refugee claims?

Do they believe that the people of SVG are that stupid? Or is it that there is a dirty little secret that blew up in their faces?

Still, the spin doctors continue to spin in SVG. Maybe it is a “revolution” in unreliable travel documents.

On September 10, 2012, there was a news release entitled “Canadian citizenship not for sale” by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Can the spin doctors say the same about SVG? Peace and justice and get real.

Lenford O’Garro Washington

Observation Abstraction from a solid!

Mechanism of this mass Silver, gold little mind Coarse and others deep mine Oil penetrating a deeper way.

Replacing on a solid Clearing forest Animals and birds move away Buildings always, backing sea Change water way.

Movement on a solid Trail of people gather for luxury Building city, creating panic Everyday seem to be gloom day Abstraction from within From beneath, replacing, removing Formulating faster time, season change Man this time, creating this time, end of time.

Elvett G. King - SVG (2012)

P.S. Please, Mr Prime Minister, for Vincentians’ sake, go to Canada and deal with the issue personally.

Getting short-changed WITH ALL THE TALK in this country about who looks after the poor; which government is for the people; who loves the people the most, and all the other nice things that people like to say, I ask a simple question: Who is protecting the consumer?

A bank recently said it reduced their interest rate, even though is only for a time; and we think that is good. Well hear this: I recently opened a bank account with one of the banks here. I put in a few hundred dollars that I had earned as a side job. Two weeks after I opened the account, I went back to make a little withdrawal. Lo and behold, the bank withdrew administrative charges. Give me a break, man. Is this not a ‘con’? Even though they lending our money at high interest rates and giving us peanuts, we now have to pay them to keep and use our money. My nose tells me that something doesn’t smell good about this.

And here is another thing that I noticed recently. Two weeks ago, I bought a few slices of ham for a certain price. I got six slices in the package. When I went back to buy the same thing, I pay the same price, but I got only five slices.

Could someone please tell me what is happening in this country? Who is supposed to be protecting us consumers from getting short-changed? Who can we turn to?

Pat

Help me to understand something THE PRIME MINISTER went to great lengths to justify his making $5m available to Grenada so that country could meet its wage bill to public servants. Before the ink even dried on his full page letter of explanation, I could hear his entourage showering praise on their ‘great leader’: “Another masterpiece by the Comrade,” you bet they would have said in unison, with no regard for how well harmonized the chorus was.

Sadly, even after reading the Prime Minister’s lengthy explanation, I am at a loss, maybe because of my own ignorance of these ‘high matters’ which are the special realm of the ‘educated’.

I can’t find in my poor untutored mind, a reason why I would give another man something I owned at a time when I needed it to help advance myself. Why would I want to cut off my nose to spite my face?

Public Servants and teachers are legally due their increases. They agreed to forgo the

increase for a while. Tell me, Comrade, where is your conscience?

You keep saying that the payment would be made ‘when things get better’; that a lot of things will be attended to ‘when things get better’.

When are things going to get better? When the airport is open, I suppose, given that ad

that promotes it as the panacea.

I cannot understand why this country would have a facility available to it, which it can access to attend to some dire needs, but we find it fit to give another country.

Maybe we’ll use it to ensure that the airport is ready by 2013.

Untutored

Cutting squares and potholes VINCENTIAN professionals: Are they really professional?

We ask this question because of the quality of work they produce.

Take for example our road repairs. Our roads in SVG have, in most places, more than one layer of asphalt or hot mix. Yet, today, when they are mending or patching our pot holes, they only cut out the squares around the pot holes, to the first layer they met. It means that most of the times, these holes are less than two inches.

In any construction, a square cut is never a good joint. A saw tooth method is usually recommended.

The square method used today is drainage on our Treasury, and only serves to building the contractors and his partners’ bank account.

Do the road engineers or road inspectors check the work to be done before it starts and when it is finished, before signing payment vouchers?

A Macadam road builder

V Providing for the

10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Views

VISA, Venezuelans and countryÊs public servants Victimization The Issue It’s budget preparation time in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, and the civil servants are busy presenting their plans to the Ministry of Finance, to be included in the estimates of revenue and expenditure for the year 2013.

Among the financial matters that the Ministry will consider, is the matter of salary increases, either through increments, or negotiated increases for public servants.

The ULP administration acknowledges that a three percent salary increase is owed to public servants, and further, the ULP commits to the payment of this increase. But as Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has said time and time again, the current world economic and financial crisis will affect the ability of the ULP administration to meet this commitment in a prompt manner.

Most Vincentians recognise that these conditions are affecting the country, and most of them admire the prudent manner in which the ULP administration is handling the economy. The consensus is that the country is not doing too badly, although we are not out of the woods as yet. It may well be that, over the next three months, the economic and financial situation in the country will improve to the point where the ULP administration will be in a position to pay the salary increases. But always, we have to be mindful of the other financial requirements of our citizens.

That Grenada Loan Claim It is therefore very disappointing to hear arguments being made, particularly by the NDP, that the public servants should be paid their increases, based on a bogus charge, that the government provided a loan of five million dollars to Grenada.

As the Prime Minister so lucidly outlined in a letter to the news media, there never was a loan to Grenada by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Prime Minister gave chapter and verse about the nature and use of country-specific financial allocations for the member-countries of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace blindly and opportunistically followed Cools Vanloo of the Public Service Union (PSU) with his bogus and false claim. Did Eustace genuinely not know how this ECCB facility works or was he being dishonest or has he simply “lost” it?

Ultimately, it is the public who will hold Eustace and company to account, for the false statements made in relation to this issue.

Salary increases provided by the ULP Perhaps this is a good time to remind all Vincentians about the salary increases provided to Vincentians by the ULP administration, since 2001.

In December 2002, the ULP administration made a one-time salary increase of 4.25 percent of monthly salaries. No salary increases were granted in 2003 and the reasons for this have been given.

But in 2004 the ULP administration increased salaries across the board by 4 percent.

This was followed by an increase of 3 percent in 2005, 4.5 percent in 2006, 5 percent in 2007 and another 5 percent in 2008.

,In 2009 salaries were increased by 3 percent, followed by a 5 percent increase in 2010. So that a public servant who is still employed, would have seen his/her salary move by a compounded 33.75 percentage.

Let us not forget that along with these increases, the re-classification exercise conducted by the ULP administration netted an aggregate of over six percent of salary paid to police officers, nurses, teachers and civil servants.

At one point, in 2007, the government provided a package of salaries, wages, bonuses and so on, along with tax giveaways, to a total of EC$46.3 million.

So the question is, are our public servants better off under the ULP administration in terms of their salaries? The answer is a resounding yes!

Other Benefits And there are more benefits. During the tenure of the ULP administration, the Christmas barrel programme was introduced and is still in place. Under this programme, Vincentians, including public servants, have found a way to import basic items from the Diaspora, including food items and clothing.

In all of this, we have not quantified the training benefits provided for public servants. Many teachers have been trained, and this also applies to police officers, public servants and nurses.

Away from the salaries issue, many public servants have taken advantage of the 100 percent mortgage facility at the National Commercial Bank, now the Bank of SVG, to construct their houses. A number of Banks and Credit Unions have positioned themselves to provide this service.

The point is that, over the last three years, our beloved country has experienced some social and financial shocks which have affected the revenue of the central government. We cannot forget the passage of Tomas, and the heavy torrential rain in 2011. We cannot forget the debacle of CLICO and BAICO which devastated the savings of a number of Vincentians; money that would have been available for investments in the country.

Despite this, and inspite of the unfavourable world economic and financial situation, the ULP administration has not cut jobs in the public service, has not reduced its expenditure and the delivery of services in relation to education, health, law and order. Despite all this, the ULP administration has continued and increased its assistance to the indigent poor and the economically disadvantaged, including students attending educational institutions in the state.

All this is happening before the eyes of the trade unions, and the opposition NDP. Yet they will continue to persist with their lies and propaganda, despite the brilliant economic performance of the ULP and Comrade Ralph.

We urge them to seek truth from facts, as the reasonable and patriotic Public Servants have been doing, in their understanding and support of the plea from the Prime Minister, in relation to the salary increase issue.

LEADER of the Opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), Hon. Arnhim Eustace, has expressed outrage at the attempts made by the ULP administration to mislead Vincentians, on the issue of the visa requirement imposed on nationals of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), by the Canadian Government.

Eustace pointed out that Vincentians have been leaving this country in droves in search of jobs and a better life, as a result of the increasingly harsh economic conditions created by the ULP. According to caribbeannewsnow.com, beginning on Tuesday, September 11, 2012, citizens of SVG now require a visa to travel to Canada.

Of critical concern to the NDP leader is the fact that the Canadian government has specifically cited unreliable Vincentian Passports as one of its main reasons for imposing the visa restrictions.

Eustace says, “Gonsalves’ political machinery is now working to run away from and sidestep the issue. The government must take responsibility for this situation. They had enough warning from the Canadian authorities and from our own Immigration statistics to know that this action would be taken if they did not respond to Canada’s concerns.”

According to the NDP leader, “Vincentians will pay a heavy price in the form of the repatriation of criminals, and many working and lawabiding Vincentians returning to our shores to look for work during a time of unprecedented unemployment and continued negative growth.”

Eustace anticipates that, “The falsified passport issue will raise a red flag for immigration authorities in the United States and other countries to which our citizens normally travel. I am worried”, he said, “about the impact this could have on the United Kingdom, for example, which does not now impose a visa requirement.”

The Opposition Leader is convinced that SVG’s close foreign policy ties with Iran, with whom Canada has broken diplomatic relations, must have featured somewhere in Canada’s decision to impose the visa restriction on St. Vincent. He further pointed out that, “Canada regards Iran as a State ‘Sponsor of Terrorism’,” adding that, “any tie between our country and Iran, when combined with the falsification of passports, would be unacceptable to Canada and must have entered into Canada’s decision-making.”

waters.

Mayor Marcano, Ibraín Velasquez said that this celebration within the family Mata gave the efforts between the national government and the Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

“We cannot afford the undermining of public confidence in the judiciary”, Eustace said. “When matters of this sort are discontinued, Vincentians will lose confidence that justice is unlikely to prevail when they are brought before a judge”, he added.

We await the DPP’s response to this matter.

Victimization In some government departments, a few junior staff members who have been hired are encouraged to spy on the heads of departments and some senior officers perceived to be NDP supporters.

These junior staff appear to be beyond discipline. They certainly have clout and access to the politicians. Some officers have been rewarded because of their role in helping the ULP to elected office. And so these officers would not have earned their position based on merit or competence.

All public servants remember the ‘good days’ under the NDP government when supporters of both parties were equally promoted and appointed. NDP sees each officer only as a Vincentian whose professional conduct and performance are vital to the success of the public service and to the entire country. Under the ULP administration, many public servants are victimized because of their perceived political affiliation to the NDP. The current practice regarding selection, promotion and appointment, shows that there is not an effectively established policy in place for the proper management and development of the human resource capacity in the Public Service. Not all vacant positions are advertised. (Reference the posts of Director of Training and Supervisor of Elections). There are no written objective criteria for determining which positions are advertised and those that are not. And how are permanent secretaries appointed? The Public Service Commission’s window-dressing interview process under the guise of Venezuelan’s transparency, amounts to a waste of The Union Island fiasco continues, people’s time and effort, when the and our leader has weighed in on the candidate would have been selected discussion. Our Leader is calling on the long before the vacancy was advertised.

Director of Public Prosecution, Colin The NDP salutes all ,the hardWilliams to explain what he meant working public servants and urge you to when he said that he did not know how stay focused in the face of a ULP’ the late Customs Guard Othniel Whyte government campaign of administrative got to be on board the Venezuelan terror. The NDP will return the civil vessel on June 3, 2012, that caused him service to the civil servants by removing to lose his life via drowning, this the climate of fear and the state of according to the post mortem carried victimization, so that your skills, out on his body. energies and initiatives can once again Whyte assisted Corporal Rohan be harnessed and developed. We will Deshong in investigating suspicious restore that environment of confidence activities aboard the Venezuelan vessel in your abilities. Rest assured that we which resulted in a shoot-out on Union value your professionalism in moving Island on June 3, 2012. this country forward once more.

The DPP said that not knowing how Whyte got to be on board the vessel was Conclusion also taken into consideration when the In these hard economic times, charges against the Venezuelans were Vincentians have to decide. The discontinued. contrast is clear. The NDP’s team is The question is why did the DPP not ready to take this country forward out solicit a statement from Customs as to of the mess the ULP has placed it in. why Whyte was on board the vessel?

We advocate that there must be a Our leader is convinced that the DPPs better way to govern a country. More statement has left more questions in time must be spent in planning the minds of Vincentians than answers. development strategies for the (United Socialist Party of Venezuela) advancement of St Vincent and the Mata Figueroa said that two days ago, Grenadines. We in the NDP promise, (17th September) the governments of that when we come to office again, we Venezuela and Saint Vincent reached will not pretend that we are working for an agreement that made possible the you, and give you words and promises, return of the four fishermen who but will put forward a vision for the survived an alleged altercation with country’s development and work customs officials in international towards its achievement.

V

12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

SVG: A dunce nation by 2025?

GONSALVES’ incompetence is turning our country into a dunce nation. SVG has witnessed three significant warnings of education crashing under PM Gonsalves’ rule.

In 2011, SVG suffered its worst Common Entrance Exam results in history, with 1116 children of the poor and 56% of males failing. In 2012, the Director of Planning in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning revealed that some children got as low as 5% in some subjects in the 2012 CEE. Also in 2012, SVG suffered very poor performances in Maths and English CSEC examinations.

In 2011, we were given assurances that measures would have been put in place to correct the problems in education. In 2012, we were given the same empty assurances by the Ministry of Education, i.e. that policies were being put in place to correct the serious problems in education. At a press conference in September 2012, the Chief Education Officer explained that the Education Ministry is developing strategies to mitigate against having such poor education results. However, nothing has changed.

SVG Green Party sees four major problems with education in SVG Firstly, there is a gross under-investment in education by the ULP regime, only $28 million a

year. The yearly education budget should be $200 million. This money will be created by abolishing the blanket tax and customs duty exemptions to Mustique, Canouan and Taiwan.

Secondly, education results by individual schools should be made public, so scientific study can find problem areas in SVG. Sweeping poor results under the carpet and doing nothing do not help our children in the long-term.

Thirdly, education cannot improve under a weak economy. Gonsalves’ dumbonomics’ leaves households without money for food and electricity.

Children cannot learn on empty bellies or do homework in the dark.

Fourthly, the Education Ministry has no answers to the education problems in SVG. This is shameful.

Since 2001, we have seen that Gonsalves’ management of the economy, using ‘dumbonomics’, has created high unemployment, increased poverty and rampant crime. The ULP regime is failing our children. We need a better education system for our children, or SVG will become a dunce nation.

A Green Government will invest $200 million in education every year, provide free education from pre-school to university, and build three science and technology universities.

China realises the importance of education, and it is estimated that by 2030, China will have 200 million college graduates – more than the entire U.S. workforce.

In Australia, the number of advanced maths students dropped by 25 per cent between 1995 and 2008. The Australian Academy of Science says Australia has growing shortages in the workforce of young people with maths and science skills, and that Australia’s robust economic future depends upon innovation. They say Australia needs people with mathematical skills to drive the economy forward.

Likewise, it is critical that SVG has experts in mathematics and science. Mathematics and science will bring innovation to SVG and make our economy a surplus economy. A country doesn’t create revenue by politicians beating their chests, but from entrepreneurs running businesses and bringing innovation.

How can our children run businesses and create innovation if the ULP regime is making SVG a dunce nation? SVG needs experts in mathematics and science to drive the economy forward.

SVG Green Party www.svggreenparty.org

Bits and Pieces advice: Hit them hard, once you have the facts. I did.

TWO ISSUES AGO, I reintroduced The last suit was brought about by this series begun by MM Scott way two articles: (1) The Hypocrisy of Errol back when, and hope, if THE Mounsey and others. (2) A Tissues of VINCENTIAN agrees, to carry the Lies, Obfuscation and Misinformation feature here, limiting it to about five (In response to a reply: Facts relating hundred words. to Ms Mary Smart and OR Sylvester).

As readers would have noticed, my Needless to say, when Ms Margaret contribution to the paper began since I Ferrari presented our facts then under was about 17. During that time, at discovery, the plaintiffs ran like hell. least three attempts by lawyers were Now Uncle Metro knew me just made to sue. All died. Uncle Metro’s from my writings, but he had a thing about lawyers himself, so he loved them. In fact, he encouraged his daughter to join the club so that “he could get a lawyer he could trust to represent him.”

So how did Uncle Metro get to meet me?

On one trip to SVG, I was walking from a friend’s house in Kingstown Park to meet that friend for lunch, and there he was, with MM Scott, looking out the window of his office on Paul’s Ave. I heard someone calling. I looked

by Frank E da Silva

up. He commanded, “Come up here, I want to see you,” I obliged.

A firm handshake. “So you are the Frank da Silva? Let’s go to the office.”

Someone was summoned to fetch coconut water, and a fresh bottle of brandy appeared. It was about 10:30am when I walked up those stairs; I left there after five in the afternoon.

I was instrumental in getting THE VINCENTIAN to both the US and Canada — sometimes delivering it to Montreal myself by 8 Saturday morning. So you see, my friend Garnet, NY, who wrote in response to ‘Goat Thief’: ‘I notice, by the way, how accommodating you are to Mr da Silva.

I suppose he now realizes that you are an open-minded person and by now would have forgiven Frank for his earlier tirades — if they ever mattered to you —against you and your paper’.

Garnet, I never do anything out of malice and, unlike some foolish socalled politicians in SVG who see all criticisms as coming “from persons with crab mentally,” THE VINCENTIAN may have taken those criticisms as a sign to examine itself.

Further, I think Cyp knew there was no malice. By the way, I got a

disapproving review of The Vincentian last Friday, but that is between the politician, Cyp and me.

One of the articles which I wrote was entitled: ‘SVG Lawyers Club, Den of Thieves, Fraternity of the Corrupt’.

I wonder who are worse, the lawyers or the goat thieves? The goat thief generated a lot of other stories — almost a dozen in one shot from someone in the Fenton area. I met a man from Orange Hill who only identified me from my voice; he gave me his story: a mother goat bearing kids, gone. He looked everywhere.

Something must be done. And despite a request from me to the COP for a mug-shot of the Arnos Vale convicted goat thief, nothing has been sent to THE VINCENTIAN. We need it, Mr COP. Speaking of the COP, I heard some people on radio imputing improper motives to the COP in the COP v Vynette Frederick matter before the court. This is a warning to them to cease and desist. To say that the timing of the case is “suspect” is to impute improper motive. I am sure that the COP can prove that his action commenced at the request of a private citizen.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 13.

Diaspora

Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT

“does not intend to cease” from its activities.

“We are more determined than ever to press forward,” she added.

THE PRESIDENT of the United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCG), one of the few Vincentian cultural groups in the United States, has described as “a great success” its recent 9th Annual Concert at the Meyer Levin Intermediate School in Brooklyn, New York.

Reaching out to SVG

UVCG at inaugural Vincy Picnic in Long Is., New York.

Right: United Vincie Cultural Group of Brooklyn (UVCG) rendering choral speech, 'St .Vincent and the Grenadines: The Natural Place to Be' UVCG President Roxie Irish making a special appeal for support for Argyle International Airport.

cultural items this year.”

The four-hour-long event showcased a Roxie Irish, a former national netball number of skits, dances, star, told THE VINCENTIAN, that chorale speeches and poetic her group, through its masterpieces, expressions by the adult and children continues to promote Vincentian sections. culture in the Diaspora.

Cultural legend Leroy “Chico” “We have watched over the past Ellis, of New Artist Movement eight years how our support base (NAM) fame, also evoked much keeps growing, and it is our intent to nostalgia with poetic and dramatic continue to do whatever necessary to expressions. keep our loyal supporters,” said the “We love highlighting our children Vermont-born, Campden Park raised who are learning our Vincentian Born-Again Christian. culture,” Irish said.

“Our concert this year was a great “To fully understand where you success,” she added. “The audience are going, you must know where you thoroughly enjoyed the show, even are coming from,” she added. “We though some expressed the desire to use portions of our rehearsals to see more reinforce what UVCG is all about.

The only reason we do what we do is People!

“I am a true Vincie (spelling by choice). I am a proud Vincie,” Irish continued. “I love my Vincentian people; and, for me, wherever the need is, we are trying to UVCG performing during Club St. Vincent's grand cultural reach out and expositon in late August. be a blessing.”

One for the airport

Irish said the group, formed nine years ago, has a current membership of 35, which includes children “who are being taught their heritage and being trained to reach out to the needs of others.

“Everyone in this group has a heart for their homeland – the beautiful island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Gem of the Antilles,” she said.

Irish said the primary goal is to provide medical assistance to those in dire need at home, “with special emphasis on supplies for the various clinics.”

In this connection, she said UVCG has been raising funds through concerts and tea parties.

To date, Irish said 18 clinics have benefited from medical supplies, namely: Belair, Biabou, Byera, Campden Park, Chateaubelair, Clare Valley, Colonaire, Coulls Hill, Fancy, Greggs, Layou, Marriaqua, Mayreau, Overland, Sandy Bay, Troumaca and Vermont.

In the initial Medical/Dental Mission Trip, in July 2010, Irish said residents of Sandy Bay, Troumaca, Colonaire and Bequia were beneficiaries.

The group’s second Mission Trip is slated for October through November, during which eight hospital beds and a number of wheelchairs and walkers will be delivered, Irish said.

She said six more clinics will also receive “much-needed” medical supplies.

Besides its own initiatives, Irish said UVCG, over the years, has participated in several humanitarian efforts by other organizations in the US. She said UVCG’s members are “constantly reminded that the mandate is to be a blessing to all.

“The motto is: ‘We’re blessed to be a blessing!”

In this nexus, at the end of the spell-binding, “belly-busting,” culturally-riveting show, Irish appealed to the sell-out patrons, who comprised a large number of Jamaicans and other Caribbean nationals, to dig deep into their pockets, pocket books and wallets in supporting the construction of the Argyle International Airport “because we know firsthand that it is a necessity.”

Patrons obliged by instantly contributing US$681.00, Irish said, stating that it would have been greater if the appeal was made in the middle of the show instead of at the end.

She revealed that the group’s Mission Trip home in 2010 – which comprised doctors, nurses, dentists and other healthcare professionals – was “such a challenge” because of, among other things, inadequate air transportation.

“We were charged exorbitant prices; there were very long delays in Barbados and Trinidad, and some of our professionals were forced to spend overnight in a hotel in Trinidad,” Irish said.

“There is definitely a need UVCG members, including children, present for an International Airport!” grand finale, 'We're Out to Build a New St. she said, adding that UVCG Vincent'.

14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 15.

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16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 17.

18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 19.

Business

Karib Cable introduces new channels

St. Vincent & the Grenadines HBO Latin America Group (LAG) and Karib Cable formally announced that both Companies have signed an agreement for the transmission of the HBO LAG channels to be broadcasted in St. Vincent & the Grenadines, beginning October 1st.

Under the agreement, Karib Cable will broadcast the HBO/MAX Premium package developed for the Caribbean, which includes 8 channels: HBO, HBO Plus, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO (East), Max, Max HD and Max Prime.

Starting on October 1st, viewers will be able to select and subscribe to their favorite HBO and MAX channels via Karib Cable’s movie package to enjoy over 300 new releases and series per month, offering the most award-winning and nominated series made exclusively for HBO, Hollywood hit movies, thought-provoking documentaries, concert events, comedy specials, HBO Original Films and critically acclaimed programming, all with no commercial breaks.

Karib Cable is pleased to begin a new broadcast agreement with HBO that will enable us to offer more exciting new channels to customers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The robust suite of HBO channels in our Movie Package, along with the addition of Sony, Sony Spin, AXN and WB to the Premium Basic line-up will enhance and offer our valued customers a variety of additional entertainment choices.

Karib Cable will also add the following HBO channels to their basic line-up, at no additional cost to subscribers: - Sony Entertainment Television, an entertainment channel that offers the best drama, comedy, reality and late night shows to provide viewers a great choice to take a break and relax.

- Sony SPIN, presenting the best

Trinidad & Tobago and other countries in the region, Karib Cable is positioned to provide the best entertainment value for their subscribers now and in the future. programming geared NOTE: Customers towards the millennium must rescan set-top generation with TV box(es) to view the new shows, fashion, cutting channels on October 1st. edge technology, music To rescan your box shows, special events and top grossing movies, Press Menu button.

Select Channel Search. with an updated and Select Auto Search. irreverent approach.

Press OK to save - AXN, offering an program. Press Exit (2) exclusive schedule of drama and action-packed times. series, movies, reality and sports programming from the US. - E! Entertainment Television, going beyond the screen and becoming a part of the viewers’ lifestyle. Celebrities, fashion experts and star hopefuls are featured on the true stories, dazzling red carpets and fun-filled realities.

- Warner Channel, bringing viewers the TV series and movies produced by Hollywood’s number one studio, Warner Bros, with programs from a wide variety of genres, including comedy, drama, action, thriller, sci-fi and feature films.

In addition to the new channels in our Premium Basic line-up, we are offering the exciting NEW Movie Package FREE for the month of October to all of our cable TV customers that include multiple screens of HBO and MAX. After the free month, customers can continue to enjoy the NEW Movie Package at ½ price for the following (3) months.

With this agreement, Karib Cable is leading the way with cuttingedge technology and the best in premium entertainment for St. Vincent & the Grenadines by entering HBO Latin America’s licensing regulation process. Following previous agreements between HBO and several cable partners throughout the Caribbean including Flow in Jamaica, Cable Bahamas in the Bahamas, various in

V

20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Opinion

A tangled web of perjury, corruption and visas clients.

In addition to those cases directly related to the legal profession, what about the Minister of Agriculture who HOW DID WE get to this place!! allegedly made a meal of a Tuesday, September 12, 2012 is pedigree goat his ministry had a day we will always remember: imported to improve our goat Practising lawyer and Senator, stock? Was he reprimanded?

Vynnette Frederick of the Was he instead ‘promoted’? opposition New Democratic And who is investigating the Party, was arrested in the midst accusation that members of of some Vincentians having to Prime Minister Gonsalves’s come to grips with the fact that family deposited at least their airline tickets to Canada US$1m in bank accounts, are of no value, if they have no contrary to the Proceeds of visas.

Crime Money Laundering The implications of these (Prevention) Act, 2001. Of events are far from a source of less social standing are the pride for any Vincentian, least three permanent secretaries among them lawyers at all who misappropriated public levels, the Bar Association, funds ‘in broad daylight’, and politicians and diplomats with little penalty. These stationed abroad. One would cases are the ones that come argue, therefore, there is an to mind; there are more. urgent need for sober examination of our entire legal The fallout – passports and system, including law visas enforcement procedures, and how critical political decisions So, should we be surprised are made in Saint Vincent and that the stench of corruption the Grenadines and by whom. in our society continues to hit The 36-year-old Frederick the world scene? After all, the was arrested and slapped with Canadian Minister for three charges of perjury.

Citizenship, Immigration and Linked to these charges is a Multiculturalism, Jason May 12, 2012 OECS Court of Kenney, was very clear when Appeal judgment that involves he announced that a post 2010 general election Vincentians would need visas claim that Dr. Ralph E. to travel to Canada. He said, Gonsalves slandered Ms. “A key reason why the Frederick’s “good” name, and defamed her character by insinuating that she is a lesbian. In support of this claim, Ms. Frederick submitted an affidavit which TONIGHT as I listened to the court found to be untrue local talk radio, I reviewed (HCVAP 2011/024). some possible subjects to write Noteworthy also is the fact on in the Thought Today that Ms. Frederick applied for series of reflections. Most of leave to appeal this decision at them were listed on 10/12/09 the London based Privy but were never written. As I Council. This application was searched for the appropriate denied on September, Monday scriptural references to 17, 2012. accompany the reflections, I came across Isaiah 55. I was Corruption breeds perjury stopped, nay arrested by the caption “An Invitation to If corruption is at the root Abundant Life”. I read its of perjury, then questions clarion call “To everyone who must be asked about the thirsts, come to the waters. reasons for the little or no You who have no money, action in matters of other come, buy and eat. Come buy serious allegations!! wine and milk, without money In fact, Ms. Frederick’s arrest is an anomaly, for the and without price”. legal fraternity as lawyers in As I considered the various SVG are known for protecting economic challenges which one another. Consider the confront us increasingly each following: the case where day, I mused: Wouldn’t this be lawyers from both sides of the heavenly if this could be real political fence come together to in the lives of all people protect one of their own everywhere? After all, these against accusation of of challenges bombard us every statutory rape; that of the day whether as banana attorney who changed a court farmer, civil servant, business order in favor of his client, was not taken to the barracks, person or unemployed seeking an opportunity to keep life and continues to practise as if he did nothing wrong; and the and limb together. With such daunting challenges and instances of allegations of pressing concerns, abundant misdeeds in the way some life, as promised, should be lawyers acquire pursued with vigor and as a landownership from their Luzette King Host and Producer, Global Highlights globalhighlights@gmail.com

government has imposed visa requirements on St. Lucia and St. Vincent is unreliable travel documents.” He emphasized, “criminals from these countries can legally change their names and acquire new passports. In some instances, people who were removed from Canada as security risks later returned using different passports.”

It follows that the Canadian’s finding has to be symptomatic of a society which seems to have stopped valuing truthfulness, virtue and moral principles. Of little value, therefore, is a debate that makes a distinction of apportioning blame between those responsible for issuing “unreliable travel documents” that are probably used for “unacceptably high number of asylum claims … over the past five years”. Note the FIVE years!!

Revealing, too, is PM Gonsalves’ response to a question in the House of Commons on July 24, 2012 about the basis for Dave Ames of Harlequin acquiring Vincentian nationality. He argued then, that under the immigration law, he (PM Gonsalves) was not obliged to explain how he used his discretionary powers when granting Vincentian

citizenship to any individual.

So will we ever get an answer about the veracity of the claim that Vincentian passports have been issued to Venezuelans, Guyanese, Cubans and Chinese, some of whom can’t speak English?

One wonders how these images of corruption would stack up against a December 29, 2011 CNN report that SVG was the only Caribbean destination to make its rankings, when they described it as “a tropical paradise”.

Even in the face of an argument that Kenney’s decision could be linked to Canada’s foreign policy to sever diplomatic relations with Iran — one of SVG’s allies — a week earlier, this matter ‘touches and concerns’ the political network and the legal profession of SVG: the minister of national security, the attorney general, the director of public prosecutions, the registrar, the immigration department under the SVG police force, the bar association and justices of the peace. In one way or another, each member of these disciplines is duty bound, by oath, to establish conduct that befits the role of implementing and enforcing rules to correct wrongs, maintain the stability of political and social stability,

and deliver justice.

Now, as we look ourselves in the mirror as a nation, should we not ask what public interest does it serve to arrest and charge for perjury Vynette Frederick - one of the few young and politically, ambitious Vincentian women in the midst of Vincentians trying to come to grips with yet another international scandal? Was this arrest meant to show Canadians and the world that the Unity Labour Party administration is serious about dealing with crime?

We are at a critical juncture which demands nothing less than a ‘good faith’ effort to start repairing our global image. There can be no better place from which to start other than PM Gonsalves demitting the office of Minister for National Security and Legal Affairs, at least.

We need “progressive” action as we try to accept the reality that every Vincentian passport holder is more exposed to suspicion and possible harassment during their international travel.

On a lighter note and since power is at the root of all these decisions, we have to be mindful of the saying ‘Yuh cyah put ratta fuh watch cheese, dey go ha ah party!!

The Thought Today - Here’s to eternal life for all (Isaiah 55) priority.

I returned to my reading of the text to discover what type of abundant life was on offer.

‘Why spend money for what is not bread and wages for what does satisfy? Eat what is good.

Let your soul delight itself in abundance. Incline your ear.

Come to me. Hear and your soul shall live and I will make an everlasting covenant with you. Indeed, I have given him as a witness to the people, a leader and commander for the people. Surely you shall call a nation you do not know.

Nations who do not know you shall run to you because of the Lord your God and the holy one of Israel, for he has glorified you.”

As I read the rest of the chapter, I kept hearing the voices of my deceased mother and father, Methodists like Rhoda John and others, who cared enough to mentor and lead enquiring youth like me to “seek the Lord while he may be found” (even in the days of your youth).

For the first time, it struck me from whence came those memorable words, which I heard so often in my youth and emergence into manhood:

“Seek the Lord while he may be found. Call upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his ways, the unrighteous his thoughts. Let him return to the Lord and he will have mercy on him and to our God for he will have mercy on him and to our God for he will abundantly pardon”. I read on through the all too familiar words “For my thoughts are not your thoughts nor your ways my ways. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts”.

I read on “As the rain and snow come down from heaven and water the earth, make it bring forth and bud and give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word not return to me void but accomplish what I please.

With joy will you go out and in peace mountains and hills will break into singing and all trees of the field shall clap their hands. Valuable cypress trees will grow instead of thorns and myrtle trees will come up instead of briers”. It shall all be to the Lord for a name for an everlasting sign

that shall not be cut off.”

I could not contain myself. I had to read on to Isaiah 56 and God’s wonderful promise to extend his offer of new lifegiving possibilities to all gentile people who were not rightful heirs to the covenant between God and the Jewish children of promise. The “son of a foreigner” who had joined himself to the Lord in a perpetual covenant shall be given a place and a name in the house of the Lord better than that of sons and daughters. The promise to them is “I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off. Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, make them joyful in my house of prayer. Their burnt offering will be accepted on my altar and my house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.”

As I pondered the words of Isaiah, I reflected on the loving kindness of an almighty God who offers eternal life to Jew and Gentile today. As you care, share the thought today.

Ashley R Cain

Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Changes could be overwhelming. Don't give them the use of your credit card.

You will be encouraged to get involved in a moneymaking venture. Your disciplined attention to jobs will enhance your position.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Look into any educational activities involving the whole family. Don't forget family obligations. You are best to work behind the scenes on projects that require detail or precision. Don't get involved in other people's private doings.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Short trips will be educational. Social evenings at your place will be highly successful. Don't make those you live with feel unloved or unworthy. Do things because you want to, not because someone else thinks you should.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Don't count on your friends to be loyal when it comes to doing things.

Overindulgence may cause conflicts.

Discord may arise with someone you're close to. You've been hurt before and could be again if you don't play hard to get.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your stubbornness coupled with your mate's jealousy don't make for a favorable time. Any attractions toward clients will be one sided and must be put right out of your head. If you can, make phone calls instead of going out.

Financial affairs do not look too favorable this week.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Check into art objects or precious stones. You can do well in group endeavors. Sudden romantic connections may be short lived. You will learn valuable skills if you sign up for seminars this week. Don't overload your plate.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) You can beautify your surroundings by renovating or redecorating. You are in a high energy, get it all done, mood and you'll have little patience with those who are slacking off. It might be best not to spend your money on luxuries this week. Your lover may feel rejected.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) You must deal with an emotional problem with your loved one that you have been avoiding for some time now.

Social functions will bring you in touch with new lovers. Travel may be confusing. You'll be surprised how much you can accomplish.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) You may be emotional if you allow your lover to take advantage of your good nature. Do things because you want to, not because someone else thinks you should. Think twice before you volunteer information. If you can't get ahead in the company you're with, perhaps it's time to move on.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Try to accommodate them without infringing on your own responsibilities.

Your self esteem will benefit. Friends will be loyal and caring. You can make career moves that will be prosperous.

Someone is trying to pull the wool over your eyes, and if you're gullible, it may cost you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Jealous coworkers may try to sabotage your attempts to get ahead. You will be subject to pushy individuals if you get involved in uncertain organizations. You will be popular and will easily attract members of the opposite sex. Don't let others put unreasonable demands on you.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Try not to argue about trivial matters.

Obstacles may stand in your way where career and success are concerned. You can get into weight loss programs or go out and change your image with a new look in clothing, hairstyle, and attitude.

Your dramatic approach to life has probably gotten to your mate.

ACROSS

40. What a bar bouncer checks 1. Delivery 42. Reaction to option nn IM joke 4. Kin of assoc.

43. Nativity 7. Astronauts’ scene Beverage 47. Over 11. __ Paulo 50. Direction 12. Siamese Kazan 14. Mayberry 52. IM provider youth 15. Behave or 53. Beach formation print 54. Eat sparprecede ingly 16. Rorschach 55. Pounds __ (abbr.)

17. Color 18. Wine from 56. Dancer’s move Bordeaux 57. “Scrubs” 20. Had figures Breakfast (abbr.)

22. Leftover 13.

58. Mauna __ morsel 23. Flock 19.

DOWN babies 26. Account1. “Gomer ants’ Pyle, 21.

Initials __” 24.

29. Sleepy Van 2. Bucket Winkle 3. Outfielder 25.

30. Squeal Sammy 26.

32. Aykroyd 4. Water and mammal 27.

Rather 33. Pen-making 5. Scarlett’s Butler name 6. Purchase at 28.

34. Jam the pumps 29.

35. Sun. 7. Indian __ 31. precede Pole 36. Book borrowing 8. GI’s address (abbr.)

33. spot (abbr.)

9. Diarist Anais 37. Matures 10. “Good34.

38. Disobey ness!”

Printing type Presidential wannabe Perot Spigot Nautical prison Rational New-style LPs Steve Allen successor Poker fee __ roast Grid scores (abbr.)

Sent an Invoice Operations

Center 36. MGM lion 39. Censoring Sound 40. More frigid 41. Mild oaths 44. Curtain __ 45. Tramp 46. Actress Lanchester

LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 21.

47. Letters after a dentist’s name 48. “Begone!”

49. Wind dir.

51. Jar top

V

22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Advice

Replaced by a toy

No second chances

Dear George,

MY GIRLFRIEND broke up with me when I was 18 years old, and that was twenty-five years ago. She was 19 years old then, and she broke up with me because she said I cheated on her with another girl. I asked her to tell me who the girl was and to bring her in front of me so I can prove my case, but she flatly refused and said she was dumping me forthwith. My tears did not move her, “Teddy” and I was left alone to suffer the hurt of losing the girl of my dreams.

We both migrated to North America and happened to meet each other one Labor Day in New York. She right away apologised to me for doing what she did, and confessed that she was wrong about me back then, and went on to ask me if there was any chance for us to get back together. I told her that I had someone in my life whom I just met and loved. She said she also had someone too but

ALL I WANTED to do was to please my wife in the bedroom, and that is why I got her a dildo for her birthday. She was surprised and excited that I was so open-minded to get her such a gift. It has been one month since, and I am now having a problem as a result.

My wife now prefers to use the dildo to pleasure herself rather than being with me. Her excuse is that the dildo is much bigger, and going with me is not the same thing. George, she has actually replaced me with this thing! I am now being told that I am not sufficient for her anymore! Should I get rid of it once and for all?

It is not a flattering situation for me at all. She has further added insult to injury by telling me that it is my fault to have got her a dildo that was much larger than what God has given me.

Angry Dear Angry, While sex toys can and do enhance bedroom activity, it would help to discuss the idea with your spouse before agreeing to bring them into your bedroom. It should be spelt out clearly the reason for a particular toy, and you need to be aware of the pros and cons of having these toys around.

It could be that your wife had issues before the toy, and maybe you were influenced in some way, hence your decision to get her that particular toy.

I would strongly suggest you both get marital counselling regarding this issue. Maybe this dildo would have served the purpose of bringing out hidden issues that were probably preventing you both from having a more fruitful relationship.

George

Dear George,

Not going anywhere It is not such a wise idea for you to resign your job and move to New York to become fully dependent on your MY BOYFRIEND is living in New boyfriend. The dynamics of New York York and has been living there for dictate that contributions from both over 29 years. He is proposing that we get married so that he can sponsor parties are absolutely necessary for comfortable living. Love is patient, me, but wants me to resign my job and there’ s no reason to rush this; right away to prove to him that I am and your boyfriend should take the serious about coming to meet and time that is needed to fix everything. being with him.

If or when you move, you should do so I assured him that I would resign legally and confidently. my job, once we are married and Should he continue to insist on you things are on the move towards me getting my documentation. He insists moving there prematurely, then you that I come to New York right away to have all right to question his motives. live with him, saying that he is able to A wise and experienced carpenter once “mind” me. I am not a fool, and I told said, “Measure twice and cut once.” him that! I am not leaving here George unless I am sure of operating in New York legally and comfortably.

Because I have taken this stance, he got mad at me, and I have not heard from him for over one month now. We used to speak to each other about twice a day before that. What do you think is going on with him?

Dear George

Plain minded Dear Plain Minded, Much has been asked of you by your boyfriend, and you need to take the time you need to make the decision that would be in your best interest.

would be willing to dump him just so that we coud be back together. I told her I cannot do that to my girl, and that I do not want another man to go through what I went through twenty-five years ago.

She just looked at me and walked away, and I knew I would not see her again. I knew I did the right thing, but wondered if should I have been less direct with her.

know now, without any doubt, that you are a man of integrity and she You need not feel guilty about the way you lost her chance of having a future with you. handled this situation, Both of you have and be assured that you found new love and handled it just right.

If a woman is ready to should get on with the business of focusing on dump the man she is in strengthening that love. love with just to regain your love, then you know Let bygones be bygones. her quality is questionable. She would George

Dear “Teddy”

V

THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 23.

News

Venezuela supports TSSS music programme The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has lent its support to the music education programme of Thomas Saunders Secondary School (TSSS), Kingstown.

The support came in the form of a cheque, in an amount of US$600.00, presented by Venezuelan Ambassador, Yoel Perez Marcano, to Mr. Denny Robinson, Musical Director at the school.

The presentation was

made on September 21, 2012, at the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Kingstown.

The donation is expected to go towards the purchase of a Casio Priva digital piano, for dedicated use in the school’s music programme.

Ambassador Yoel Perez Marcano was moved to facilitate the donation upon learning from Denny Robinson, of the decision of the Principal of the TSSS,

Mr. John Renton, to extend the music education programme for students of the fourth form.

Robinson had told the Ambassador that this move was in keeping with an effort aimed at creating the conditions which would lead, in the near future, to St. (L-R): Ambassador, H.E. Yoel Perez Marcano, presents a cheque to Mr. Vincent and the Denny Robinson, Musical Director of the TSSS. Grenadines having its own Symphony moved by this intention, TSSS for its great follow that path of Orchestra. and committed his achievements in the progress and excellence Ambassador, Yoel support. recent CSEC exams and set by the TSSS, and in Perez Marcano was On making the sports competitions this so doing, contribute to presentation, year. the development of their Ambassador Marcano He urged other fellow Vincentians. also congratulated the students and teachers to

SVG joins Age Demands Action Campaign To mark International Day of the Elderly (Older Persons), October 1, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be for the first time, among 61 countries across the globe staging activities as part of the Age Demands Action (ADA) Campaign.

The Campaign, which seeks to highlight the needs of elderly persons, is conducted annually, for the last six years, and allows older persons themselves to speak on their needs as they see them.

In SVG, the occasion will be marked by the staging of an open session at the Biabou Learning Resource Centre from 10.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., on October 1st, 2012.

Selected speakers from communities and persons from the Senior Citizen Activity Many elderly women in SVG and the rest of the Centres will make lead Caribbean still work in many low paying jobs to presentations. support themselves and their families.

The Hon. Frederick Stephenson, Minister Council of Women, and is supported with responsibility for the Family;

by Help Age Caribbean.

Mr. Reginald Thomas, of the Indication from the NCW is that National Insurance Services, and Mr. participants will be demanding “their Jeff James, Director of Help Age rights to health care and social Caribbean, are expected to be in protection, and will call for an end to attendance. abuse of the elderly.” (Submitted by The local activity is being coNelcia Robinson-Hazell, Event ordinated through the National Manager).

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24. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Business

Remembering Gloria Estella Huggins: A stalwart Catholic

by PATMOS RICHARDS The Catholic community has lost a stalwart in Ms. Gloria Estella Huggins, a parishioner at the St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church in Gomea, the community in which she was born.

In her inimitable way, ‘Stella’, as she was popularly known, was a nation-builder. At the time of her passing, ‘Stella’ had retired as a teacher, after giving yeoman service at several primary institutions across the state, in a distinguished career that began in 1954, when she was at the tender age of 14.

All those individuals who attended primary school during the era of the 50s-90s would remember this fair lady’s fine academic instructions and her penchant for quietly enforcing discipline.

The products of her caring attitude live on through the generations of qualified Vincentians who would have passed through the many classrooms she commanded.

In the Catholic diocese of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which she served unwaveringly, ‘Stella’ was venerated for her willingness to undertake any church assignment that was entrusted to her. She was the prototype Roman Catholic with a passion to reach out to young Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

But it was in her parish of St. Theresa, Gomea, on whose behalf she laboured since its inception in 1959, in which she would have had her greatest, positive impact. The younger parishioners at the St. Theresa’s R. C. Church would have benefitted, in a particular way, from her humility, experience and maturity, and her willingness to share her knowledge.

‘Stella’ is on record as being the first mission leader of the St. Theresa R.C. Church. In addition, she also impacted as a Catechist, a Christian assignment which has helped to transform the lives of many in a positive way. She also rendered service as a Minister of the Eucharist. Moreover, she was the church’s choir leader and also played a prominent role in her Church’s annual harvest.

In the wider community, this woman of quiet disposition was highly esteemed as a matriarchal figure by all and sundry in Gomea and its environs.

‘Stella’ passed away on the 11th September and was laid to rest on Thursday, September 20th at the Church yard cemetery.

There was an outpouring of tributes, all

deserving of a woman, a mother, a grandmother, who found the time to render invaluable services, beyond the call of normal circumstances, to her church and her community.

Certainly, her contributions will not go unnoticed here and in the comfort of her Maker.

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 25.

News

Vincy products woo South Americans St. Vincent and the Grenadines continues to make the most of its membership in the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of our America (ALBA), an integration platform for countries within Latin America and the Caribbean, spearheaded by Venezuela..

This country’s most recent opportunity to promote itself within this A display of the award winning Hairoun Beer and the world famous SVG Arrowroot flour.

This line of rums, produced by St. Vincent Distillers Ltd., made for an attractive display.

grouping and beyond came with its participation in the ALBA Fair held in Caracas, Venezuela, September 12 — 14.

Through the instrumentality of Invest SVG, the local agency entrusted with boosting exports from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a number of local manufacturers had their products displayed at the Fair.

Among these were: Sunset Very Strong Rum, SLR, Captain Bligh XO and Sparrow’s

by St. Vincent Distillers Ltd; Gusto, Caramelo, Vincy Power and Red Fusion rums by Silver Kiss Rum; Pepper Jelly, Chilli Sauce, and Pepper Sauce by Vincy Fresh; and Hairoun Beer and Bitter Lemon by the St. Vincent Brewery.

Local arrowroot flour and cassava farine were also exhibited, and promotional material was also displayed on behalf of the SVG

Tourism Authority, Eastern Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC), and Hotel Alexandrina.

Invest SVG reported that it was able to initiate talks with persons in Venezuela, including PESCALBA,

who have expressed interest in these Vincentian products, and conducting other commercial business with this country.

The agency continues to urge local businesses to take advantage of its free business registration

as it allows for businesses to receive information on events such as trade fairs and other missions, as well as grant funding, professional training and academic scholarship opportunities.

Vitamalt takes care of twenty THE VITAMALT Backto-School Promotion came to an end when 20 very satisfied parents won gift vouchers redeemable at R.C Enterprizes and Gaymes Book Centre.

The Promotion commenced on August 6th, and for the next six weeks, 16 winners won vouchers to purchase back to school items.

Winners simply placed

four (4) Vitamalt crowns in an envelope and dropped them into specially marked boxes.

For the final week of the promotion, September 12 — 21, Vitamalt increased the winnings to accommodate 20 persons.

Ecstatic winners collected their vouchers on Monday morning, September 24, at the St.Vincent Brewery Ltd.

in Campden Park.

During the promotion, the Vitamalt brand team visited various summer camps, distributing free Vitamalt and gift vouchers.

Vitamalt continues to live up to its tagline, ‘Vitamalt takes care of you’, by supporting many educational, health and wellness activities.

(Submitted)

Some of the winners in the Vitamalt Back-to-School promotion show off their vouchers in the company of Vitamalt Brand Manager, Mr. Reneyro Terc (left front).

The Centre of Excellence is intended to become the centre of technological advancement and training in SVG.

NCTI offers Diploma level course COURSES at the Centre of Excellence, situated at Diamond, are expected to be taken to another level when Diploma courses are launched next Tuesday, October 2.

According to information received from the SVG National Centre of Technological Innovation Inc. (SVGNCTI), next Tuesday’s activity will see the launch of the ABE and BCS courses.

The ABE courses will commence in earnest on October 8 and will offer Diploma level studies in Travel Tourism and Hospitality

Management, Business Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing Management and Entrepreneurship Management.

A commencement date for the BCS courses in Web Design and ECommerce is still to be set.

Registration for these courses is still open.

In the meantime, the SVGNCTI continues with its certificate level courses in Comp TIA Network +, CompTIA+ and Introduction to Computers, among a list of other ITrelated courses.

26. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

ST. VINCENT ELECTRICITY SERVICES LIMITED CUSTOMER ADVISORY DATE

DURATION

SUNDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Cane Garden, Sion Hill, Sion Hill Bay, Long Wall, National Insurance Services (NIS) Compound, Granby Street between James Street and Sharpe Street, Sharpe Street, Upper Bay Street from Sharpe Street to Harbour Club, (including the Ferry Berth), Save-a-Lot Supermarket, Section of Kingstown Port

MONDAY 1 OCTOBER

8:00 AM – NOON

BEQUIA: O’ Car, Reform UNION ISLAND: Salt Pond

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

North Union, Campden Park (in the area of Allan Smith Family Bakery and Ruddy’s Electrical Contracting Company Limited) Ottley Hall (including the Marina)

8:00 AM – NOON

BEQUIA: Camel UNION ISLAND: Murray

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Park Hill, Yambou, Choppins, Harmony Hall

8:00 AM – NOON

BEQUIA: Spring UNION ISLAND: Valley

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

North Union, Victoria Village, Bonhomme, Stubbs, Queen’s Drive, Troumaca, Rose Hall, Mt Coke, Rawacou, Mt Pleasant, Argyle

8:00 AM – NOON

BEQUIA: Camel UNION ISLAND: Top Road Campbell CANOUAN: Barbuce, The Fisheries

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Point, Rose Bank, Coulls Hill, Spring Village

TUESDAY 2 OCTOBER

WEDNESDAY 3 OCTOBER

THURSDAY 4 OCTOBER

Paul’s Avenue, P.O. Box 592, Kingstown Tel: 456-1821 Fax: 457-2821 E-mail: metrocint@vincysurf.com Website: www.metrocintsvg.com

LOCATION

Please be advised that the electricity service may be restored ahead of schedule or may be delayed beyond the stated time due to unforeseen causes.

Motorists and pedestrians are asked to exercise caution during the times specified. VINLEC apologises for any inconvenience caused to the general public.

This Customer Advisory can also be accessed via our website at www.vinlec.com Emergency: 456-1540

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 27.

TSSS Penn Relay Prep on the way

by GLORIAH…

THE THOMAS SAUNDERS Secondary School (TSSS) made history in athletics here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines when they became the first team of Vincentian athletes to compete in the Annual Penn Relays held in Pennsylvania, USA, in 2011.

First year participation Many persons here in SVG may not have been aware of the awesome significance of the activity, but feedback received from Vincentians living in New York and Pennsylvania, reported a heightened pride in knowing that athletes from their homeland were participants in the prestigious event.

In 2011, an all-male contingent participated in the 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m. They won in their first round of heats but failed to move on into the other rounds.

Notwithstanding, their participation evoked overwhelming exhilaration among the many Vincentians who attended the games, and in the process, the world became more aware of the existence of this little country called St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

2012 performances The TSSS continued its participation in the Penn Relays in 2012.This time around, male and females teams participated in both the 4 x 100m and 4 x 400m relays.

Coach of the team, Mr. Godfrey “Fuzzy” Harry, recalled that the females won their 4 x 100m heat and placed 5th in the 4 x

A section of the TSSS athletes currently in training for possible participation in the 2013 Penn Relays.

Right: Godfrey ‘Fuzzy’ Harry, Coach of the TSSS Athletics Team, has introduced a special training regimen leading up to the Penn Relays. conducted at the end of last school year that threw up promising TSSS athletes into a serious training routine at the performances.

Grammar School Playing Field.

“We are continuing, hoping that by the 400m heat. They were athletes are currently middle of October to have ranked 31st out of an engaged in preparation another trial, to measure approximate 400 plus for the April 2013 event. where we are now and teams. The males won According to Coach where else we need to their 4 x 400m heat and Harry, these go,” Harry explained, while they ran a faster preparations began in adding that, “After time than they did in the third term of the last October, we will move 2011, they placed 2nd in school year. The Penn into some specifics — their 4 x 100m heat. hopefuls currently train baton practice, speed Further progress exclusively with the endurance and precontinued to elude the other athletes of the season competition.” young athletes. school but, “their work is The Penn athletes’ a bit more strenuous concentration for the 2013 preparation than the others”, Harry moment is on strength reported. work, speed Undaunted, the TSSS He pointed to trials development, and

endurance. Harry was adamant that, “despite the challenges from outside interferences, we would have a team that would be prepared for Penn!”

Before the Penn Relays Participation in the Penn Relays is not automatic. Athletes of the TSSS must journey to Barbados to take part in the qualifying heats for the actual Relays.

Regardless of the outcome in Barbados, Harry assured that the trip will act as exposure to outside competition.

Road Relay Classic begins road racing season AN INTERNATIONAL ROAD Relay Classic ushers in the 2012 road racing season of Team Athletics SVG. The Classic comprises four legs, and runs off on Sunday 7th October from 3pm.

Into its second year, the Relay Classic replaced the ‘Round D’ Town Road Relay.

Up to press time, indications were that four regional states, in St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada and Dominica, had confirmed participation.

The visitors will come up against their Vincentian counterparts in a chase for the top prize of US $ 1000.

Grenada won last year ahead of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

According to a release from

Team Athletics SVG earlier this week, the International Road Relay Classic will have, in addition to the international male category, open, secondary and primarymale and female categories.

Racing will set off from the intersection of South River Road and Halifax Street with the primary schools’ category, to be followed by the secondary, then the open category involving locally based athletes.

The international category will crown off the afternoon’s proceedings, with the presentation ceremony thereafter.

The local team is not leaving any stones unturned. They will host a trial this Sunday morning from 7 am.

Following the hosting of the international road relay, there will be three other road races: the Byera Hill race, the Sion Hill sprint and the North Leeward race, which are slated for Sunday 21st October, Sunday 11th November and Sunday 25th November, respectively.

All three races are sponsored

by LOG Enterprises.

Right: Pamenos Ballantyne, ace distance runner, could well be featured in the Road relay Classic ahead of his planned participation in the 2012 Run Barbados marathon in December.

The TSSS will hold its Annual Sports Meet in March. Top students from this event will participate in the National Interschool Athletic Sports Meet about three weeks before the Penn Relays. By this time, the Penn Relay team should have been scaled down to a total of thirteen.

The Penn Relays are scheduled to be held in April, 2013.

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28. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

Sports

Sports Centre coming for Bequia

SPORTS PERSONS on the Grenadines island of Bequia have been given added encouragement to continue their involvement and development.

Plans are afoot to establish a multidisciplinary Sports Centre to cater to the organized development of sporting talent on that island.

The effort is being spearheaded by Wendy Leighton, a national of England who resides for

part of the year in Bequia.

Leighton told THE VINCENTIAN, that the idea grew out of an initial approach by cricket administrator Garvin Ollivierre.

And while the project has begun with a tennis facility and the laying of a Wendy Leighton, the driving concrete pitch to Laying the concrete pitch which is just one of the facilities the Centre will force behind the Sports cater to cricket eventually offer.

Cente for Bequia. development, Leighton assured always been my desire to especially the kids, and of taking up most of their beginning.” that this was “just the do something for Bequia, to give them sporting time looking at She continued: “It has opportunity which they television.” never had. I am McDowall expects that optimistic about the there will be wide use of response from the public the facility, once it is to the project.” fully commissioned, and The intention is to that a cost for using the establish a body to facilities will be affixed, oversee the operation of with an exception for the Centre which will students. eventually be handed over to the people of Bequia.

Leomore McDowall, the Project Manager, informed that the Center will cater for both young and old in various sporting disciplines, which will include water sports, given that it is located Participants at the SVGASPE Conference. at Lower bay, close to Charles, Junior athletes get to the the sea.

Minister in the secondary school, they The facility, will be already in tune to Ministry of Sports.

McDowall said, will the basic requirements also accommodate on which athletic success Ian Hypolite, tourists.

Chairman of can be built,” Hypolite He did, however, SVGASPE, espoused. emphasize that there recognizes that his Hypolite recognizes will be a particular Alliance faces the that SVGASPE will now focus on the young, “as challenge of selling have to sell the idea to we try to get them its proposed the sporting bodies here, approach to the more involved in sports Leomore McDowall, and pointed to the just Project Manager, expects sporting fraternity which will expand concluded conference as wide use of the facility. here. their learning, instead a step in this direction.

The conference carried as its theme, ‘Sports a window to Human Development’, and attracted participation COMPUTEC BELFONGO Peter Campbell 26.

Cooperative Bank P’tani at Arnos from the Division of MASTERS defeated C.K.Greaves At Buccament, North Leeward Vale One from 1.30pm.

Sports and Physical Vintage Arnos Vale Masters by 6 Masters Combined defeated On Sunday: Bickles Fun Education, Football, wickets in one of two matches Joyette’s Auto Slater Masters oppose Stanley Browne’s Automobile, Rugby, P.E that were possible in last Development Pastures Masters Stubbs at Arnos Vale One, from Teachers through the weekend round of matches in the by 9 wickets. Joyette’s Auto 10am; Bequia take on Computec Ministry of Education, National Masters 20/20 cricket Slater Development Pastures Belfongo at Paget Farm from Ministry of Tourism, the competition.

Masters were halted at 85 for 6 10am; Rudy’d Electrical National Sports Council At Arnos Vale One, off 20 overs. Jomo Thomas topBarrouallie take on Joyette’s Auto and Sporting C.K.Greaves Vintage Arnos Vale scored with 39. Federal Jeffery Slater Development Pastures Associations Masters made 109 for 9 off 20 took 3 for 15. North Leeward from 10 a.m, and RSVG Police representing Football, overs. McNeil Morgan top scored Masters Combined then raced to oppose Cato’s Heavy Equipment Auto-racing and Rugby. with 47 and Ted Roberts hit 35.

89 for 1 off 10 overs. Winston Glomorgan from 1:30 p.m at The session also heard Jecima Browne took 4 for 31.

Skinner led with 40 not out and Buccament. addresses from Nelson Computec Belfongo Masters Jamal Jeffery 35 not out.

Hillocks, Director of replied with 111 for 4 off 16.5 This Saturday, Da Silva La I.B.A.ALLEN Sports, and Elvis overs. Cleus Robertson hit 37 and Croix take on St Vincent

Sports Alliance encourages different approach “The conference was rewarding and exciting”.

This was the sentiment expressed by Ian Hypolite, Chairman of SVG Alliance for Sports and Physical Education (SVGASPE), at the conclusion of a one-day conference hosted by the Alliance last week, and held at the Media Centre of the National Sports Council Sporting Complex, Arnos Vale.

Hypolite said that he was satisfied that the objective of making known the objective of the Alliance to sport officials here, was met.

The mission of SVGASPE is: ‘to develop and educate people and communities through sports and physical education’.

According to Hypolite, SVGASPE’s focus is deliberately on the six to ten years age group, and represents a shift away from what Hypolite sees as a concentration of development at the secondary and college levels.

“The evidence has shown that motor skills are developed between six and ten years. It is important, therefore, that there be a shift where the focus on sports development would be on activities like jumping, skipping, popping, where the fun principles will be introduced at a young age while the motor skills are being develop.

This approach will ensure that, when the

Belfongo beat Arnos Vale in Masters

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 29.

Sports

Windies given a lease WHO WILL MAKE it to the International Cricket Council T/20 will be determined over two semifinal encounters scheduled for October 4 and 5. The winners advance to the final Sunday, October 7.

Whether West Indies live up to the early expectations will depend on how they fare during the Super Eight.

West Indians looked on in disbelief as their team was plundered for 100 runs in ten overs, having piled up 191 against Australia.

The downpours in Sri Lanka, a feature in that region, served to knock the West Indies team out of contention. That they rebounded against Ireland and secured a berth by way of a higher run rate represents a mystery.

Whereas Ireland is capable of pulling off surprises, many fans would have been disappointed with an early departure of the West Indies.

Having been given a lease of life, it will be up to the team to produce winning performances.

There is always something pending with West Indies cricket. When it seems that things are settled off the field, things pop up and serve as a distraction, and that takes with it the momentum towards stable performances.

Irate fans, whether based in the West Indies or any part of the world, have their version of what it should be, and they are not afraid to vent their feelings.

With the number of outlets available for one to convey their sentiments, you can be sure that it does not take much time or thought for feelings to be expressed.

With West Indies cricket, there is no shortage of things to talk.

Because no matter what team is selected, persons will differ, and they have every reason so to do.

Tomorrow morning at six, West Indies play Sri Lanka in another bid for points to advance to the semis. Monday’s game against New Zealand will be the final chance.

By then, the writing will be on the wall.

The West Indies’ performance on any stage is always reason for scrutiny. If the squad overcome their differences and fulfill their potential, they justify the belief the followers have in them.

Believe it or not, sport is nearly something of a racial showdown, even though organizers will go to all lengths to project an atmosphere of impartiality.

There is little doubt that the West Indies team carries the flag for black people and indeed oppressed people worldwide.

It may be surprising to know the extent of the West Indies following, even in countries from which they encounter stiff opposition. For many people in Australia, India, England, and South Africa see the West Indies team as their standard bearer. It is up to the squad to reward their supporters with encouraging performances.

Everyone will be hoping that the West Indies get to grips with themselves, and when the final round starts, they maintain their equilibrium and deliver the goods.

Vincy Heat in training at Arnos Vale Two.

Vincy Heat steps up preparation WITH EYES SET ON improving its ranking in CONCACAF and Caribbean Football, this country’s national football team, Vincy Heat, is well into its preparation for the 2012 Digicel Cup qualifying round, scheduled to kick off in St Lucia, October 23.

Cornelius Huggins, head coach of the national football team, said despite not having his full squad in training on a regular basis because of player participation in the current Club Championship, he believes with them playing, “it’s a good opportunity for them to get into match

readiness.”

As part of the preparation, the national players will face a Bequia Eleven this Sunday, when that Grenadine island opens its 2012/13 Football League.

In addition, Huggins is hopeful that arrangements would be made to have his squad play off against some of the leading clubs here, as he gets closer to deciding on combinations.

Efforts are also in train to have Vincy Heat engage in a ‘friendly’ against Barbados in Barbados, on their way to St. Lucia.

SVG come up against Guyana, Curacao and hosts St. Lucia in the qualifying round.

Huggins said that his team is going into the round with some confidence, having beaten favourites Guyana, in their last encounter. He is, however, not underestimating the other teams.

He expects an improved showing, especially with the inclusion of the experienced Teon Gordon and Wesley Charles.

I.B.A.ALLEN

All Stars triumph in TBPO Bank of SVG All Stars scripted a comfortable win over Gomea Bombers in last weekend’s rain-hit round of matches in the TBPO National Lotteries Authority 20/20 Softball Cricket competition.

In one of two matches played last Saturday, Bank of SVG All Stars batted first and compiled 130 for 6 in 18 overs. Desmond Blucher led with an unbeaten 72. Kendell Payne took 2 for 44 runs. Gomea Bombers never looked the part of serious chasers and were bundled out for 87 in 17.2 overs.

The Bombers had no answer to wicket takers Earl Pope, 3 for 7 and Glenroy Dasent, 3 for 14.

In the other match, ASCO defeated Warriors by 2 wickets. Warriors posted 109, batting first, in 20 overs.

Zatti Marshall and Ormwali Robinson led with 19 each. Asborn Franklyn,

Javon Nero and Damien Chance each took 2 wickets.

In reply, Asco reached 110 for 8 in 15 overs. Kevin Jessup topscored with 35. Zeron Murray took 3 for 30 and Desroy Lavia 4 for 21.

Sunday’s games were abandoned due to the heavy rainfall.

The competition continues this weekend with Pine Hill Clinchers versus Georgie Valley Saints and Older Boys against Glen United on Saturday; and RSVG versus Dr. Thomas Injectors, Valley Boys versus Sunset Strikers and CGM Gallagher Novice versus Gomea Bombers on Sunday.

All matches are played at the Dauphine Playing Field.

I.B.A.ALLEN

Cornelius Huggins says Vincy Heat will take some added confidence into the qualifying round, having beaten Guyana recently.

National Training Squad named SELECTORS HERE have announced a Senior National Cricket training squad ahead of final selection of the team to participate in the Windward Islands Senior Cricket Tournament, scheduled for Dominica later this year.

The squad reads, Sunil Ambris, Miles Bascombe, Romario Bibby, Alston Bobb, Atticus Browne, Salvan Browne, Shaquille Browne, Keiron Cottoy, Romel Currency, Kenneth Dembar, Darren Greaves, Donwell Hector, Asif Hooper, Lindon James, Delorn Johnson, Ray Jordan, Elron Lewis, Desron Maloney, Otis Matthews, Kadir Nedd, Kenroy Peters, Gidron Pope, Marvin Small, Javon Samuel, Kishore Shallow, Tiron Simon, Harley Skerritt, Casmon Walters, Kesrick Williams and Rolando Wright.

I.B.A.ALLEN

30. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. THE VINCENTIAN

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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012. 31.

Classifieds

NDP leadership absent from Burton’s trial

Bakers wanted in Canouan 497-2089

LAND FOR SALE

by HAYDN HUGGINS NOBODY from the leadership of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) has turned up, so far, to show solidarity and support for NDP candidate Burton Williams, facing criminal charges at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court.

The matter was heard before Senior Magistrate Donald Browne on September 11 and September 25, and is expected to continue today (Friday).

Persons following the trial with keen interest have observed the absence of the NDP leadership in this case, and noted their presence in previous cases before the Court involving NDP members, some quite recently.

When asked for a comment, Williams told THE VINCENTIAN, “I have not given any thought to that. I am a member of the Central Committee of the Party, and the Party leadership supports me in this matter. I am sure there are other issues the leadership has to attend to.”

When contacted on Wednesday night, opposition leader and NDP president Arnhim Eustace said he preferred not to comment.

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F O R

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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S A L E

FRIDAY,

SEPTEMBER 28, 2012

VOLUME 106, No. 39

RANDYÊS WHOLESALE BURGLARIZED to be in working condition.

The safe in the office was WHILE MOST CITIZENS were asleep forcibly opened and an during the wee hours of the morning undisclosed sum of money removed. of Wednesday 19th September, others were busy breaking into the Proprietor perplexed Randy’s Wholesale Cash and Carry situated on Linley Street, Rose “It’s really amazing to know Place, Kingstown. they got in and no one saw them.

The thieves made off with an There is no impression of a breakundisclosed sum of money. in on the outside,” a perplexed THE VINCENTIAN Randy Kennedy, Proprietor of understands that the culprit(s) was (were) able to force his (their) Randy’s Wholesale Cash and way through the steel bars of the Carry told THE VINCENTIAN. He related that he was at home perimeter gate which opens into when he was informed of what an open area. had transpired, “by the guy who Access was then gained to the office through a window, after the opens every morning.”

All of Tuesday’s taking and burglar proof bars were removed. sundry cash were taken.

Interestingly, all of this was Asked if he believes it was an accomplished without triggering an alarm system that was known inside job, Kennedy replied, “How did they (the thieves) know the window was open and the alarmed wouldn’t be triggered off?”

He stated that extra security has already been put in place.

“We have now made sure that all windows are equipped with alarms, and the alarm system would be expanded to cover the whole building,” Kennedy said.

Randy’s Wholesale Cash and Carry was the latest Kennedy is target for burglars who fancy businesses in “staying strong” Kingstown.

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Father doubts son’s suicide

by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY

Randy Kennedy, proprietor of Randy’s Supermarket and Randy’s Wholesale Cash and Carry, remains resolute in his commitment to assist those in need. despite what has transpired. He told THE VINCENTIAN that he was not affected emotionally “because it could have been worse, but the part where you owe persons and other businesses will cause a setback and affect the financial aspects of the business.

You depend on every bit of cash to control the books and the overdraft”.

Randy, as he is affectionately known, is recognized for his philanthropy, especially his assistance to needy persons, homeless youths and mentally challenged persons.

His company was a major sponsor in a recent effort to clean up the coastal area of the Rose Place community, the said community in which all his businesses are located.

Yet he stands resolute in maintaining his corporate responsibility.

“I do what I can do, and there are cases where persons genuinely need help and I will help, although I have reason to be skeptical.”

Asked if he thinks there is need for extra security in the area, Kennedy stated, “We have to put things in place to protect our business, but the police can do (only) so much”.

He expressed thanks to the police who are investigating the matter.

STEPHEN HAYNES, father of Dominic Spencer, the 17-year-old who was reportedly found hanging from a wall behind the house in which he lived at Sharpes, September 17, has doubts about the version given of the death.

“I ain’t feel pleased,” Haynes stated when he visited THE VINCENTIAN last Stephen Haynes is not Tuesday.

Spencer was, at the convinced that his son committed suicide. time of his death, a student at the Intermediate High School.

Haynes is a 49-year-old farmer. He lives at Green Hill. Dominic lived with his mother, Urla Spencer, at Sharpes.

Haynes pondered on the removal of the body from the scene before the Police or medical personnel arrived.

Haynes reflected that no suicide note was retrieved.

“I could never believe this man heng (hang) he (him) self,” Haynes pointed out.

“The man go to church. He sing (s) in the choir.

He coulda make himself anything that he wanted,” the distraught father added.

Haynes pointed out that there was no mark around the neck.

“I want justice for my son, because he aint heng heself,” Haynes contended.

Haynes contemplated his son’s loss and regretted being unable to arrange for a post mortem examination on his own.

“If I had the money, I would have arranged a post mortem,” he stated.

A former Kingstown Anglican student, Spencer was a football fan. His death aroused an atmosphere of gloom not only among friends at Sharpes, but at the institution he attended.

Minister of Social Development Frederick Stephenson, in charge of Social Development among other portfolios, spoke on the issue as it related to the treatment of children in the state.

Dominic Spence is expected to be buried this Sunday.

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