The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
FRIDAY,
JANUARY 31, 2014
VOLUME 108, No.05
ENTERTAINER AND FORMER national youth footballer, Fitz-Allan ‘Lil Terror’ Bramble has been killed. His death is recorded as the first homicide for 2014. A source close to Bramble said he died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) after being shot by a masked gunman at a shop in Sion Hill, on the night of Monday 27th Janaury. Continued on Page 3.
EC$1.50
Fitz-Allan Bramble in happy, youthful times.
Fitz-Allan ‘Lil Terror’ Bramble was a promising dancehall artiste who found himself on the wrong side of the law.
by KENVILLE HORNE
www.thevincentian.com
The spot in the shop where FitzAllan Bramble was cornered and shot.
Police officers from the Serious Crime Unit canvassed the scene for forensic evidence.
V Modest economic growth in the ECCU
2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
News
Sir Dwight Venner, Governor of the ECCB, not for the first time, called for political commitment towards making the hard choices that would set the sub-region on a path to transformation and sustained growth.
The ECCU is comprised of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines SIR DWIGHT VENNER, Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), has described 2013 as yet another challenging year for the Currency Union.
following a 4.3 per cent decline in 2012.
Looking ahead
In looking ahead, Sir Dwight advanced three possible scenarios which Economic stagnation confront the Currency Union: that the global He made the economy remains in its assessment in his relatively low growth, Economic Review, high unemployment delivered across the sub- mode, particularly in our region on January 28, main trading partners 2014, in which he may while the ECCU have stopped short of countries continue with predicting another year their current policies; of modest economic that economic activity in improvement for the the global economy does countries of the Eastern not return to its preCaribbean Currency crisis levels while the Union (ECCU). ECCU makes significant The Governor was policy adjustments; and clear in saying that the that the global economy members of the ECCU, goes through substantial in 2013, had continued restructuring and to grapple “with low rebalancing and the economic growth, ECCU undergoes persistent fiscal deficits, significant socioeconomic rising debt levels, high transformation. unemployment and He cited socioeconomic poverty rates, and some transformation as being fragility in the financial the only real choice of sector.” the ECCU, but warned Contributing to this that this “is a long term continuing situation of goal and requires prolonged economic resolute focus on a stagnation, as he medium to long term described it, was strategy and the political uncertain economic commitment and social environment in consensus to get there.” traditional trading He further advanced partners, a situation that the sub-region must that continues to impact have “a vision of what we the economic realities in want and a systematic, the region. pragmatic and adaptable As far as the real strategy for economic activity was achieving our goals,” concerned, Governor pointing out that this Venner reported that meant that the subthe ECCU expanded “at region’s goals “must be a modest pace of 0.7 per clear and measurable cent in 2013,” an with emphasis on: an increase on the 0.2 per attainable and cent achieved in 2012 sustainable growth rate; He attributed the a higher level of increase to improved employment in quality performances in jobs; poverty reduction; agriculture, construction and maintenance and and tourism, with improvement of the construction accounting Human Development for the greatest Indices.” expansion, 2.9 per cent,
V News 3 Fire fighters ÂBunkerÊ fitted 300 degrees Celsius, were handed over last Tuesday THIS COUNTRY’S FIRE FIGHTERS morning at the Central Police are better equipped to face Station in Kingstown. blazes, with their receipt of One of the driving forces twelve Bunker suits from the behind the donation is Sheldon Ajax Fire Company based in Bonadie, born in Canada of Canada. Vincentian parents. Bonadie is The suits, which can a fire fighter with the Ajax withstand temperatures up to by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
Fire Department. It was his sense of patriotism that sparked the linking. Sheldon approached his Deputy Chief and, with the Ajax Fire Department Company upgrading itself, he seized on the opportunity to procure the suits for firefighters in SVG. He expressed the hope of making more presentations to the local Fire Department. Don Carrera, captain of the Ajax Fire Department, joined Bonadie in the handing over. He said due to changes in the standards of fire services in the United States and Canada, his department had to change their fire fighting suits. He said the backup suits in stock used previously are the ones that are donated to St.Vincent and the Grenadines and they are “in perfect shape.”
A timely step Sheldon Bonadie explains the value of the suit with local fire fighter outfitted in one.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Reynold Hadaway, receiving the donation of
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 3.
Clyde Mofford, Manager at C. K. Greaves and Co. Ltd. and Don Carrera (centre) make a presentation of Bunker suits to Deputy COP Reynold Hadaway. behalf of the Fire Department of the Royal SVG Police Force, praised the collaboration between Bonadie and the C.K Greaves Company for the package available. Bonadie had contacted Nigel Greaves of C.K. Greaves & Co. Ltd., to facilitate the handing over. Hadaway noted that firefighting was a “challenging task,” and recognised that, “These suits will assist in enhancing adequate protection.” The Deputy Commissioner highlighted the critical role played by firefighters, and he anticipates a higher level of
was going to buy her a cake and take her to the movies and make she feel good, but he can’t. “I frighten, I feel real bad, because whole week is me and he,” said the witness, who recollected a conversation that she and Bramble shared the day before Bramble’s death. Continued from Frontpage. went into the shop. “After a while, me “He said he wanted to go away, see three men coming down the road. because he wanted to see his daughter THE VINCENTIAN was reliably Me think a bin police, but when me look, go to college, so I told him to stay out of informed that three men travelling on me see one was in army clothes, and trouble and behave yourself.” foot, came off a hill in the community. had the army thing over his face. One The witness said that Bramble On seeing the men, Bramble, who was had on a wig but his face was covered wanted to turn his life around. She inside a shop, ran through a door at the and the other had on a black hoody. Me recounted an incident that took place on back, in an attempt to escape; but one of say ‘wait a mask man’,” the witness New Year’s Day at an event in the gunmen entered the shop and recounted. Warracou, where Bramble was beaten opened fire, hitting Bramble multiple She said she was so shocked she up. He sustained a wound to his head, times and leaving him to die. could not run. The three gunmen came which resulted in him having to cut his The two other men are said to have down to the shop, “the one in the army hair. waited outside the shop, and after suit stepped up and go in the shop According to the witness, his reaction Bramble was shot, they went into an while the one in the black hoody passed to the beating was, “’Sometimes you adjacent shop and opened fire again, me.” have to let people believe yo fraid dem, shooting an innocent customer in the She took the opportunity to run and and forget about everything’.” process, before fleeing in the opposite hide. Another source, speaking on direction. Following the shooting, the witness condition of anonymity, told THE said that she went into the shop where VINCENTIAN she was in her house Recalling the escapade Bramble was shot, and he was still watching wrestling on TV, when she alive. “He bin lying on the ground with heard three loud shots. A witness, who refused to be blood leaking from his mouth,” said the As she was about to take a look, she identified for fear of reprisal, said she is witness, and remembers he called her saw Bramble in all his pain coming still traumatized by the unpleasant by her name and said, “I want to see towards her. He held on to her skirt incident. Kelci, go for Kelci (his daughter).” and asked her to call for help. According to the witness, she was These were the last words she heard Bramble was transported to the outside the shop sitting with another from Bramble before he was taken away MCMH, along with the person (name individual, when Bramble came and to the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, given as Clarence) who was shot in the asked for some cooking oil. where he was pronounced dead. nearby shop. Bramble succumbed to his “I told him, ‘I don’t have none’,” the injuries, while the other person is said witness said. Plans to turn around to be warded at the hospital, up to press She was unsure of the time he time. arrived, but explained that Parnel The witness recalled that ‘Wizzy’, Campbell’s ‘The Law and You’ was being another of Bramble’s aliases, had In times past broadcast on TV. already made plans to celebrate his The witness said that Bramble then daughter’s birthday on Saturday. “He Bramble, whose age is given as 30,
‘Lil Terror’ gunned down: Villagers recall the event
professionalism as a result of the new equipment. Hadaway assessed the receipt of the suits as timely, especially given that it comes at a time when this country moves to commission an international airport. “The gifts,” according to Hadaway, “was a step in the right direction.” Assistant Superintendent of Police Isiah Browne, Officerin-Charge of the Fire Department, expressed gratitude to the donors for the suits, and promised that the men “will ensure that the gift will be well used and taken care of.”
was the son of former national goalkeeper and diplomat, Fitzgerald Bramble. He has been described by many as a very intelligent and talented individual with a troubled past. Many people still remember his time on the dancehall stage, battling for dancehall supremacy with current Soca Monarch Skinny Fabulous. On September 12, 2007, Bramble was cleared of a murder charge after Chief Magistrate, Simone Churaman, upheld submissions from Bramble’s attorney, Stephen Williams, and ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove that Bramble participated in the crime. The investigating officer in Bramble’s murder is Trevor Bailey. In an interview with THE VINCENTIAN, Bailey said he cannot disclose any information, since the investigation is ongoing. However, he is appealing to anyone with information to come forward, and urged, “If you don’t want to come to the police, give us a call and we will come.” Bramble’s last posting on his Facebook page read:
“Time Will Tell For the moments I stumbled, and the times I fell, time will tell. When they wish death upon me, and cast the spell, time will tell. When they think I’m weak, because I didn’t rebel, time will tell. And when they pray to God in heaven, to put me through hell, I will never worry , because Wizzy knows.....................TIME WILL TELL!.” Whether or not those who took the life of ‘Lil Terror’ are brought to justice, only time will tell.
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4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Escapee gets discount on sentence by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
a sentence of two years imposed on him for escaping lawful custody, and came away with seven WILFORD WOODLEY put up months off. his own argument against The decision was made in the Court of Appeal of the Eastern Caribbean Appeal Court last Tuesday. Judge Mario Michel agreed with Woodley’s claim that his guilty plea entitled him to a one third discount of the time. Michel noted the nature of the escape, as pointed out by Woodley, and related that there was no damage to property. Michel pondered if there might have been “some element of complicity by the prison authorities.” He reduced the sentence to eighteen months after considering the five months that Woodley was on remand. Michel sat along with Justice of Appeal Tyrone Chong. They heard Woodley’s presentation, and Michel repeated his assessment of Woodley’s Wilford Woodley (left) presentation. being led away to begin “You seem to be his reduced sentence. intelligent. You shouldn’t
be wasting your time in jail,” Michel advised. Woodley appealed on the grounds that his sentence was excessive. He pointed out that he did no damage to property, and he mentioned that other persons who had committed similar offences were given lesser sentences. He indicated that he pleaded guilty. Carl Williams, who appeared for the Prosecution, indicated to the Judges that Woodley’s guilty plea came late in the trial, and so he was not entitled to any discount. Williams pointed out that Woodley was refused bail earlier that day, and that his escape was an act of defiance of the judiciary. Williams faced some interjections from Michel who remarked that the escape might have been “an act of monumental carelessness”, and that Woodley seemed to have been “given the green light” to escape. Williams contended
that two years were not harsh, and he did not advocate anything away from that. Woodley surfaced as a suspect following a daylight robbery report
in capital city Kingstown, which ended with a hunt in the area of Frenches. He walked out of the court February 24, 2010. Woodley was held in
the neighbouring island of St. Lucia after being monitored by security personnel there. He returned to St. Vincent January 24, 2013.
‘Que Pasa’ gets May 26 Court date by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY ANTONIO GELLIZEAU, otherwise known as ‘Que Pasa’, will come before the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court May 26, 2014. Court of Appeal Justice, Davidson Baptiste, announced the date last Tuesday. He and colleague Justices Mario Michel and Louise Blenman heard arguments from Gellizeau’s lawyer, Mikhail Charles. Charles asked that the matter be traversed to the next sitting of Appeal. Gellizeau was seeking an ‘extension of time to appeal and deem notice of appeal validity filed/stay of proceeds of crime confiscation proceedings.’ Charles asked for time to amend the appeal. He told the Appeal Justices he “had not been properly instructed.” Gilbert Peterson, SC, appearing for the prosecution, expressed concern that the adjournment was likely to cause prejudice to the crown. He feared that Charles would take advantage of the intervening period to “bolster his application.” Charles understood Peterson’s concerns, but outlined that he was under “fresh instructions.” Baptiste pointed out to Charles that the matter was not new.
Charles outlined that he was “mindful of the need to ensure accuracy in the documents.” Both the Antonio ‘Que defence and prosecution are to Pasa’ Gellizeau’s file and exchange lawyer won an submissions on or extension of time before April 27, to amend appeal. 2014. Gellizeau and his lawyer were placed in an “invidious” position, according to Baptiste. Gellizeau was arrested in connection with the seizure of US $1.73 M found on a boat, ‘Jotobin’ in Vincentian waters, April 5, 2008. Gellizeau was found guilty of money laundering, March 9, 2012, and sentenced July 22, 2913 to ten years in prison. He was also given a similar sentence for concealing the cash, but the terms ran concurrently. A Confiscation application was filed by the Director of Public Prosecutions in conjunction with the Financial Intelligence Unit in relation to $10M worth of assets for Gellizeau. That Confiscation application was transferred from St. Lucia to this jurisdiction.
English man guilty of drug running by HAYDN HUGGINS NATON SMITH, a 22-year-old window installer of England, was Tuesday left with his fate in the balance when he re-appeared at the Serious Offences Court and pleaded guilty to possession, attempting to export and conspiracy to export cocaine from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Standing before Chief Magistrate Sonya Young, Smith, who hails from 24 Lister Road, Margate, Kent, CT9 4AE, admitted to possession of 1,235 grams of cocaine with intent to supply, attempting to export 1,235 grams of cocaine and conspiring with Lisa Hooper of Campden Park and others to export 1,235 grams of cocaine. The possession and attempting to export offences were committed on July 24, 2013 at the E.T. Joshua Airport, while that of conspiracy to export was committed at Prospect between July 1 and 24, 2013. Smith had also been charged with possessing the drug at the E.T. Joshua Airport on July 24, 2013 for the purpose of drug trafficking, and conspiring with Lisa Hooper and others between July 1 and 24, 2013 at Prospect, to commit the offence of drug trafficking. Smith maintained his innocence on those charges, and they were withdrawn by the prosecution. He had
pleaded not guilty to all five charges when he originally appeared at the Serious Offences Court, and the matter was adjourned. Smith was charged jointly with Hooper with conspiracy to Naton Smith on his export the way to the Serious drug, Offences Court where conspiracy to he pleaded guilty to commit the possession of cocaine. offence of drug trafficking, possession of the drug for the purpose of drug trafficking, and possession with intent to supply. Hooper maintained her innocence on all four counts. Smith will be sentenced at the conclusion of Hooper’s trial scheduled to commence next Monday, February 3. Attorney Grant Connell is representing Smith, while Jomo Thomas is defending Hooper.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 5.
Regional
Grenada: No to legalizing marijuana AS CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES continue to debate the decriminalisation of marijuana, at least one territory has declared that it has no intention to do so. Speaking at the recent 10th annual meeting of the Grenada Drug Epidemiology Network and National Observatory on Drugs (GRENDEN-NOD), Grenada’s Education and Human Resource Development Minister, Anthony Boatswain, said that “Government’s position on this issue is very clear. The cultivation and use of marijuana in Grenada is illegal, and therefore, we will abide by the laws of our land,” Boatswain’s declaration comes after St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, last September, wrote his regional colleagues calling for a “reasoned debate” led by CARICOM. Gonsalves’ call heightened the discussion
throughout the region. “One of the key issues which GRENDEN would pay microscopic attention to, and respond accordingly, with evidence-based data in the New Year, is the call for the legalization or decriminalization of marijuana, by certain interest groups in our society,” he told delegates to the conference as he also reflected on some of the serious consequences of drug use. He cited statistics on drugrelated admissions to the Mt. Gay Psychiatric Hospital, Grenada, for the period, January 1 to June 30, 2013, to back up his concerns about the drug’s use. “One hundred and twentythree patients, consisting of 118 males and 5 females, were admitted for problems derived from the consumption of drugs. Sixty-eight (68) of these patients encountered
psychiatric and behavioral disorders, due to the use of cannabinoids. This number comprised 61 males and 4 females, between ages 20 to 70 years,” Boatswain said. “The government of Grenada and the families of these patients are saddled with the financial, medical and social responsibilities, to care for these persons,” he added. GRENDEN’s meeting here was held under the theme “An Analysis of the Nature and Extent of the Drug Situation In Grenada: January 1 to June 30, 2012 and January 1 to June 30, 2013” that the organization said demonstrates that Grenada had successfully developed a framework for drug-related data collection and analysis. However, Drug Control Officer with the Drug Control Secretariat, Dave Alexander, said statistics on the mortality rates of drug-related
AnthonyBoatswain,Grenada’ s Education and Human Resource Development Minister, made clear his position of not supporting the legalization of marijuana for any purpose whatsoever. abuse were not so easy to acquire as he explained the implications of data collection under these circumstances. Following Dr. Gonsalves’ call regional leaders agreed that the Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat should conduct further research on
DOMINICA: ready to remove Privy Council DOMINICA HAS TAKEN one step closer to formally recognizing the Caribbean Court of Appeal (CCJ) as its final court of appeal. News last week from that Caribbean-OECS territory said that Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit had informed the country, that Dominicans anticipate that soon these the government of the law lords of the Judicial Committee of United Kingdom had the Privy Council will have no indicated it had no objection Prime Minister jurisdiction over their country. to Dominica separating itself Roosevelt Skerrit and from the Privy Council. his government had jurisdiction and an appellate According to the Prime gone the route of seeking ‘no Minister, this “paves the way objection’ from Britain instead of jurisdiction. In its original jurisdiction, for Dominica’s participation a referendum. the CCJ interprets and applies and membership to the the Revised Treaty of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean Court of Justice in Chaguaramas (which Caribbean States (OECS) and its appellate jurisdiction.” established the Caribbean The government of Dominica the Caribbean Community Community), and is an (CARICOM), in the region’s in 2012 wrote to the British international court with effort to foster greater government requesting its ‘no compulsory and exclusive integration. objection’ to proceed with deThe CCJ was established in jurisdiction in respect of the linking from the Privy Council. interpretation of the treaty. 2001 by CARICOM heads of This is a requirement of the In its appellate jurisdiction, government from Antigua and Dominica constitution. the CCJ hears appeals as PM Roosevelt explained that, Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, had the British government not Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St the court of last resort in both civil and criminal matters from Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, granted the ‘no objection’, his those member states which Suriname and Trinidad and government would have had to have ceased to allow appeals to Tobago on February 14. go through a referendum. the Judicial Committee of the Dominica and St Vincent “It is good news for the and the Grenadines signed the Privy Council (JCPC). Only process of us recognizing our three CARICOM countries, agreement on February 15, own courts in the region,” Barbados, Belize and Guyana, 2003. Skerrit stated. have, to date, accepted the CCJ The CCJ, headquartered in Skerrit viewed that the in it appellate jurisdiction. Port of Spain, Trinidad, has British government’s response (Source: CBN4News) as holding out in good stead for two jurisdictions: an original
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, woke up the region to consider the decriminalisation of marijuana for medicinal purposes. the medical and legal implications of decriminalising marijuana, and that further consultations will take place during the CARICOM InterSessional summit in St. Vincent next month. (Source: Caribbean 360)
T&T to ’lock down’ ports.
Action to ‘lock down’ T&T port’s is imminent. (internet photo) Stephen Cadiz, T&T goods going from outside and Minister of Transport, then directly into Tobago or outlines new measures coming from Trinidad into aimed at increasing Tobago or from Tobago into surveillance at that Trinidad, it does not matter. country’s ports. We will close off all those holes that we can find. We THE GOVERNMENT of will block them.” Trinidad and Tobago will Among the measures introduce a series of expected to be implemented measures aimed at ‘locking are: the introduction of two down’ that country’s ports. $20 million vehicle scanners; Word of this came last beefing up the Maritime week Thursday from the country’s Transport Minister, Services Division will be Stephen Cadiz, who explained beefed up so that even pleasure crafts will be subject that the ‘locking down’ to greater monitoring; measures were necessary in deployment of a specialist K9 order to block the flow of illicit drugs, including transit unit on both imports and flow between Trinidad and its exports; upgrading and tightening scanners and sister isle, Tobago. CCTV facilities at airports. News of the impeding Meanwhile, University of measures came following the the West Indies (UWI) latest seizure of illicit drugs shipped from the twin island criminology lecturer Daurius Figueira said the recent republic. cocaine bust suggests that US Customs and Border Protection officers at the port T&T has been infiltrated by the Mexican drug cartel. He of Norfolk, Virginia, on December 20, uncovered 732 said: “That shipment has all pounds of cocaine, estimated the hallmarks of a Mexican to have a street value US$100 drug cartel operation. Its fingerprints are all over it. million, in over 700 cans of That is the wake-up call for Trinidad juices, T&T. The Mexican cartels manufactured by the Citrus have already infiltrated the Growers Association, a Dominican Republic, Puerto subsidiary of SM Jaleel. Rico, the Eastern Caribbean, Minister Cadiz promised that, “Every single area that Belize, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, US Virgin we can lock down we will be doing that,” adding, “We have Islands. It’s T&T’s time now, and Jamaica’s turn is next.” to close off every single area that we can find. Whether or (Source: Trinidad Express, not we are dealing with illicit Trinidad Guardian)
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6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
News
BCK turns 50
by KENVILLE HORNE
BISHOP’S COLLEGE Kingstown was 50 years old on 20th January. However, official celebrations to mark this Golden Jubilee began on Monday 27th with a thanksgiving Service at the St. George’s Cathedral (Kingstown Anglican Church), under the theme: ‘Celebrating 50 years of molding individuals and Principal Ceceila Akerscommunities, academically, socially, King traced the morally and spiritually’. accomplishments of the The packed church school through the comprised past and years. present students of the It opened with an institution, past and enrollment of 180 present members of staff, parents, members of the students, some of whom Clergy and well-wishers. could not gain places at the established government secondary Foundation schools. The school now The Secondary School serves 438 students. So far, the school has was founded by the late seen eight principals, the Bishop of the Windward current being Mrs. Islands, Grant Harold Piggott, with the support Cecelia Akers-King, who is also the first person of the Anglican who has served her community, on the 20th Alma-mata in that January, 1964. capacity.
The current enrollment at the School came out in full force to mark the occasion. The Venerable J. Everton Weekes considered BCK to be an opportunity for the children of the powerless and marginalised in society. Akers-King, in highlighting the success of the school, referred to the numbers of past students who have made and continue to make significant contributions locally, regionally and internationally. “Locally,” Ms King said, “they are visible as Civil Servants, Public Health Officers, Ministers of
Government, and they occupy many important positions in the police, nursing, teaching, in banking, and many businesses.” Particular reference was made to the period of the 1980s when the institution recorded remarkable achievements in extracurricular activities — through it steel orchestra, and its football, netball and track and field teams. Akers-King also cited the introduction of Agricultural Science into the school’s curriculum which proved to be a model for all schools, and attracted the attention of the public. “It must be noted that BCK was a registered banana grower,” added Akers-King. On the academic front, the school has been doing well, declared the Principal but “most importantly, we are building a school which seeks to give God the lordship of our lives,” she assured Ackers-King.
(L-R): Ronnie Richardson and Roxanne James brought the audience to their feet with a moving rendition in song.
There was no want of support from past and present associates of the school.
many of God’s children out of ignorance, suffering and death, you also wanted a place of learning, with The vision opportunity and spirituality, that could Delivering the transform the life of the Sermon, The Venerable young minds who J. Everton Weekes said entered the schools,” said that BCK was opened to Weekes. help the less fortunate He urged the students ones, with powerless to make every use of the voices, “perhaps opportunities accorded marginalized by society.” them. He told the gathering that the founder in a significant way enabled Congratulations those students to grow and become the persons The Thanksgiving they were intended to be, Service also witnessed “to become the persons performances from they were created to be,” pannist and past student said the Venerable Rodney Small, the Weekes. School’s Choir, and a In paying tribute to duet by Ronnie the founder, Weekes Richardson and Roxanne regarded Bishop Piggott James, that had the as a liberator of the audience on their feet. divine wisdom, a St. Clair Leacock, MP contributor against for the Central oppression, poverty, Kingstown constituency segregation, in which the school is victimization, located, and Minister of discrimination and National Mobilization hardship. and Social Development, “You have taken so Frederick Stephenson,
congratulated the school on its accomplishments. Bishop of the Windward Islands, The Rt. Reverend C. Leopold Friday, said he remembered when calypsonian Lord Hawkes sang a song lamenting how people looked negatively on Paul’s Avenue. However, he said, Lord Hawkes paid tribute to the important institutions in the community and Bishop’s College, and the Bishop proceeded to sing that part of the song that referred to BCK. Bishop Friday also paid tribute to Bishop Piggott for his vision, and urged: “It is important for us to ensure that we leave a good inheritance for those who come after us,” said Bishop Friday, and concluded by showering God’s blessing on the school. BCK will be continuing its 50th anniversary celebrations activities from February to July.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 7.
News
Affected persons welcome assistance
residents in that area last Friday afternoon. Grant lost his net in the Christmas disaster ,and with no source of income, he confessed that his problem was “some finance.” He was one of sixty persons in his neighbourhood who benefitted from a recent hand-out of household items by the government, and was happy to pose with a new stove, Bentley Grant (left) unwrapped, and a new displays his gas cylinder gas bottle and gas head. in the company of “Me jus ah tek me time Maxwell Charles, and groove in,” Grant Minister of Labour, said, adding, “Me nah Gender Affairs and mek the crisis ah problem Ecclesiastical Affairs. to me.” He assessed the by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ conditions and indicated: ANTHONY “Ah nah no body cause it. Ah life. Life goes on.” BRENTLEY GRANT is a He viewed it as a fisherman in the Buccament lesson for residents, and Bay area. He is taking life in that “we have to live stride. He is grateful for the together and put away supplies distributed to bad mind.”
State and Private entities contribute THE NATIONAL RECOVERY PROGRAMME implemented following the devastation wrought by the floods of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, continues to receive generous support from state and private entities here. Recently, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves received three substantial contributions to the fund that supports the Programme. On January 22, 2014, Theresa Daniel, Deputy Director of the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) handed over a cheque in the amount of EC$125,000, same being the proceeds from a radiothon hosted by that Corporation. Prior to the NBC presentation, the Prime Minister also received cheques in the amounts of EC$40,000 from the SVG Football Federation on behalf of CONCACAF, and EC$50,000 from the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Distillers. Some of these funds are expected to go towards support for families in shelters and those in communities who are still in need of assistance, an undertaking that Dr. Gonsalves said will cost the government some EC$2.4 million. The St. Vincent Distillers’ donation will go towards assisting with the Bailey Bridge at Caratal.
SVG Distillers Phillippa Greaves (left) and Nigel Greaves (right) hand over cheque for EC$50,000 to Prime Minister Gonsalves to assist with bridge replacement.
Cecelia Latchman and Matthew Latchman were pleased with their packages as well. They recalled the loss they suffered, and said coyly that they were recovering from the disaster. “We need plenty clothes,” Cecelia admitted. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of Labour, Gender Affairs Ecclesiastical Affairs
Maxwell Charles; Transport and Works Minister Julian Francis and members of the local District Disaster Committee, teachers and other civil service personnel assisted with the distribution exercise which saw a number of affected residents receiving household appliances.. Prime Minister Dr.
A number of business entities donated to the relief effort, including the locally owned and managed Singer Co. Ralph Gonsalves singled out Dennis O’Brien, Digicel’s Chairman, Rubis, Singer Company Limited and Finishing and
Furniture for their prompt and ready donations and assistance to this particular component of the relief effort.
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8. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 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 We are not immune IF FOR ANY REASON there was a thought that the Caribbean was no longer a focal point in the drug smuggling business, think again. The October 2013 discovery by officials in Virginia, USA, of 700 pounds of cocaine, packed in cans labeled as Trinidad and Tobago orange and grapefruit juice, is testimony that the Caribbean, the Eastern and Southern Caribbean included, is still very much a transshipment point for the smuggling of cocaine into the USA and Europe. Reports indicate that more of the cocaine smuggled to the United States is passing through the Caribbean. This represents what US officials say is a shift in which drug traffickers are returning to a region (the Caribbean) which they had appeared to have abandoned. Evidence is staring us straight in the face, that it was not an abandonment at all, but simply a period of relaxation. What is beginning to unfold before us, in the Englishspeaking Caribbean, is that criminal organizations, not mere clusters, are establishing, if they have not already done so, a series of trafficking points in the Caribbean, to move products like cocaine to North America and Europe. This point is detailed by Daurius Figueira, a Trinidad (UWI) based researcher and author of the book ‘Cocaine Trafficking in the Caribbean and West Africa in the Era of the Mexican Cartel.’ Figueira as much as says that we must not fool ourselves into believing that we are immune from infiltration by the established narcotics organizations, like the cartels of Columbia, Venezuela and Mexico. The fact is, there is a new breed of narcotics cartel, savvier, more daring, more organized, with increased reach, that has now refocused attention on the vulnerable Eastern Caribbean economies/societies. And that they have arrived is borne out by the frequency and size of cocaine seizures in the Caribbean. It is as if the narcotics organizations, have sensed the vulnerability of these island territories, not least being the still weak, though developing, security measures in the region. The Caribbean has long been a smugglers’ paradise, and experts say we can expect an increase in drug smuggling related activities in the Caribbean as a result of stepped up action on the Mexico-USA border, and the violent drug wars in Mexico and Central America. This and the vulnerability of ‘small’ economies like those of the Caribbean, make for a ‘sensible’ shift by the cartels, as Figueira argues in his book. We are moved to repeat something which this column highlighted many ‘moons’ ago: Land mass has nothing to do with determining the role a territory can play in the international drug trade. Last we get caught up in believing that places like Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, because of their size, are more susceptible to being enticed into major roles in this billion dollar trade, think again. The roots that the international drug trade can sow in a country, have more to do with the economy and people, than the size of any land mass. ‘The devil finds work for idle hands’. This is an axiom that has blossomed as a truism through generation after generation. The trying economic situation in many of the Caribbean countries, a situation exacerbated by relatively large populations and high unemployment rates, make for an easy pool for exploitation. And if it is that the devil will have his way, ‘idle’ people are always more gullible — open to enticement of offers of ‘a quick fix’ to their otherwise hopeless situations. And as always, there will be those, positioned strategically in the society and economic structure, who will be enticed by the glare of the ‘quick fix’ incentives. No one is immune when the drug cartels make up their minds that there is ‘space’ in an economy, in a severely unbalanced society for manoeuvring, for setting down roots. One thing is certain: If the cartels take over, this place we call St. Vincent and the Grenadines will never be the same, a la Trinidad and Tobago. Yet, we soldier, on and must continue to soldier on, on all fronts - security, education, poverty alleviation, a redistribution of wealth and opportunity. The effort must be a holistic one, and not be solely reliant on a US-led Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, launched in 2010, and which dedicates at least US$200 million to Caribbean countries over three years to fight drug trafficking. Opportunity for idle hands and an exacting and demonstrative love of country and self is a safe footing on which to combat the evils of the international drug trade. We may not be immune, but this does not mean we should throw our hands into the air.
From Beache to Gonsalves: Changing of the Guards - ULP Style (A Reprint of 11th December 1998 “This Week”)
successfully worked to bring back the sugar industry. “WELL, THE DELEGATES at the ULP meeting on Sunday last returned a score-sheet that put the matter Arnhim Eustace, who then worked at the CDB, has told the story how of ULP leadership beyond all question. Beache, fortified by solid research and painstaking Deputy-leader Ralph Gonsalves chalked up a tally homework, was able to persuade hard-nosed economists of 254 ballots, more than 2 ½ times that of Stanley such as Bank President, Willie Demas, that a John’s 96. I had forecast over 200 votes for Ralph, and reintroduced Sugar Industry was a viable prospect for he breezed past that figure. St Vincent and the Grenadines. The rest is History. True, Ralph started on the inside track with the Leader Vincent Beache became the scape-goat for support of the leader Vincent Beache, but Stalky had Labour’s total defeat in 1989, and subsequent decline. the open backing of two other party stalwarts in Ken By 1992, new star boy Stalky John moved him out of Boyea and outgoing chairman Louis Straker. the top spot. East St George and Northern Grenadines apart, it But Stalky’s stint was short-lived. The brilliant Dr. does look as though Ralph won in every other constituency, including Central Kingstown and Central Gonsalves had assessed that, with his MNU’s aggression, a languid Labour possessing a guaranteed Leeward represented by Boyea and Straker one-third of the electorate could be stung to life to the respectively. My observation that Stalky and company dealt more greater glory of both groups. The withdrawal of NDP incumbents in North in atmospherics than in down-to-earth assessments, Central Windward and South Windward, Jonathan seems to have been vindicated by the wide margin in Peters and Burton Williams, provided the catalyst that the turn-out. sprang the deal. The first question posed by the column last week The embryo of the ULP was created, with Beache has been answered with a thunderous response. Yes, taking over the leadership once more, and Stalky, the ULP has passed the litmus test of mergers, with marginalised.Vincent Beache had joined a short list of the emergence of a broad-based and brand new party political leaders who served their country for over two that is different from, and more than, the two groups dozen years. Cato and Latham, 27 years, Joshua 28 from which it sprang. The notion of “Old Labour” is now as dead as a dodo, years and Mitchell 32 years. In fact, Beache had not formally left politics as yet. just like the MNU has lost its individual identity in a Perhaps he was waiting to join Mitchell’s predicted larger entity. retirement at the close of 2000. On December 4 of that For his own part, Boyea probably out-witted the year, Beache would have completed 26 years in active other top brass in copping the Deputy-leadership political life, and would gain time to confirm Gonsalves unopposed. The situation is reminiscent of the days of bat-after-bat backyard cricket when several boys would in the saddle, in readiness for the next election year 2003. shout “first bat,” and a solitary voice would ring out Beache is the only non-member of the legal “second bat”! fraternity to have led Labour and its offspring. The So five or six would argue for the first spot which only one could win. Number two- the Deputy-leader on others are Milton Cato, Hudson Tannis, Stalky John and now Ralph Gonsalves. this case-would be easily secured by its sole claimant! A little re-done Shakespeare seems appropriate to Dr. Gonsalves, of course, has brought a tremendous amount of skill, experience and expertise to bear on his the circumstances of Beache’s departure: “nothing in his political life became him like the leaving it… new job. One can reasonably expect more party throwing away the dearest thing he owned, as it were a organisation, vigorous mobilisation, attempts at building consensual politics, and unrelenting efforts to careless trifle”. Unfortunately, the easy- going Beache was able to consolidate the momentum towards the acquisition of leave us a last and lasting picture of him, that is out-ofpower. character and cheapening - an image of a formally Even so, it is hoped that there will be a shift from the policy to bring the Government down by rendering dressed Beache incongruously capped with a flaming the country ungovernable. Such a programme betrayed red beret, behaving like any juvenile campus radical in ill-advised protests aimed at bringing down the NDP an edge of desperation in Beache who had sighted the Government. It was Beache’s last political gasp. Promise Land but just could not lead his people to it. And so, the ULP had made a fairly smooth The 1998 elections took the cake. Just about transition to new leadership on the threshold of a new everything was going for the ULP, and victory seemed millennium. well within their grasp. The aggressive campaign, the There were no smoke signals to announce the polls, the Baptist Preacher’s Version and the whole results, as happens with papal elections. But there was mood of the people, spoke to the expectation of a style, class, solemnity in the proceedings in Mespo change of Government, if not direction. before the rapturous applause that nearly brought the To the extent that Mrs. Beache took to the T.V to house down, when Ralph was declared winner. acquaint the nation of the private side of their Prime Still, the human dimension was always present. Minister-to-be. Then a quirk in the system of a freak Some delegates from Stalky’s East St George election, some say was divine intervention- save the stronghold were peeved, piqued and crestfallen, for NDP a fourth successive term and simultaneously having first thought that it was their man who had recorded a third consecutive loss for a Beache —led won the accolade. party. And two or three of Stalky’s supporters from West Vincent had given Mitchell six months to call new St George were dismayed to discover that their names elections. The time is up, and Vincent decided had not been recorded among the delegates. graciously to bow off the stage, comforted in the belief But life goes on. Within two days of the election, the that his capable second-in-command would replace indefatigable Gonsalves made a four hour’s reply to the him. Budget, presented for the first time since 1961 by Beache entered politics in 1972, when he was defeated in the North Central Leeward constituency by someone other than the Head of Government -Arnhim Eustace. Victor Cuffy of the PPP. Eustace could very well be Prime Minister by the Thereafter, Beache was to win the seat on the next end of 2000, if Mitchell goes, and the right three elections held on 1974,1979 and 1984, twice Parliamentarians acting as constituency delegates give trouncing the likes of Gonsalves and Victor Cuffy. him the nod. Ralph will be hoping, wishing and Significantly, Beache held the seat in 1984 against an NDP swing; but Hudson Tannis, who had lost West working for a reversal in roles with Eustace in the shortest possible time. At this point, it looks very much Kingstown to John Horne, was elected Leader of the as if Eustace and Gonsalves will take the batons into Labour Party to replace the retired Cato in 1985. the 21st century.” It was only after Tannis’ tragic death in August Then came the ugly Road Block Revolution that 1986 that the party deigned to acknowledge the obvious virtually swept Ralph to power that he still bears, claims of Beache. however tenuously. This 2014 convention decides By all accounts, Beache, low-keyed and laidback, whether the ULP and/or the country is ready and ripe proved to be an impressive performer in office, for a change of leadership. I bet my bottom dollar that especially as Minister of Agriculture in the immediate Ralph will not dare put Camillo or Saboto as deputy- it post 1978 period, after Joshua had been expelled from has to be some neutral middle-ager like Maxwell PPP- Labour Party Unity Government. Beache’s finest hour came during the period that he Charles.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 9.
Letters
Dishonest judgment
WHEN ARE we going to see honest judgment?
Your backyard The backyard of the police system needs some cleaning up. The relationship between the public and the police had left much to be desired over the past fifteen years. Am I right to say that if the relationship between the police and the public was as good as is claimed, that more persons would have come forward to help solve some of these crimes? Something is wrong with the system. Put an ear to the public to see if I am right? Every day, the system operation goes down: the unfair promotion that is going around, one down; the transfers without notices, two down; running of all the senior members from the system, three down; the banning of senior members from the canteen, four down; the changing of the old way in which leave was given, five down; the lack of communication among the heads, six down; promoting new comers to these high ranks, seven down; officers giving their phone number to criminals, eight down; the unprepared case files, nine down; and the way in which police officers carry themselves while off duty,ten down. If these ten points were looked into, then the relationship between the public and the police will be in top shape.
Clean up Well, after our disaster, it is clean up time. Most of the people in SVG are waiting on the government to clean up around their homes and businesses. Soon, there will be lots of complaints on the call-in programmes. But if we clean up our own surroundings, it will give the government more chances to fix the more urgent needs. Some people depend on government to fulfil their every need. If the government fails to do so, they complain to the opposition. Take a look at all the leaders in SVG and see who is working? Where is the bad boy with his water hose? Where is ‘So Bat’ with his hoe? Where is the ‘Frenchman’ for South Leeward constituency? Where is ‘Mr. Shine’ with his power washer? Where is ‘Stone pelter’ with his wheel barrow? Where is the ‘Cock’ with his pick ox? Where are all the party front runners?( I cannot say the same for the Clergyman; he is all over the place.) Where is the day of the week man? Am I right to say he is no way to be found, because the disaster did not affect the Grenadines? I cannot say the same for Mr. Silver; he is a country man from the Windward, but he is seen in Chateaubelair working. Am I right to say he should be given a bottle of Campari for his effort? This disaster gives the politicians of this country the opportunity to meet the people in all the different areas of SVG. SPY
Do better than that, KC KARIB CABLE (KC) continues to offer sub-standard services to its loyal customers. On a weekly basis, there is an absence of two or three channels, e.g. channels 7, and 62. After my numerous complaints and visits by the technicians, the problem still exists. Karib Cable does not even have the decency as a good corporate citizen to give a discount. When I signed up for cable services in 1997, there was absolutely nothing
relating to late fee charges. Yet, this entity has the audacity to charge me for late payment. The NTRC and Bureau of Standards need to be the voice of Vincentians, and get this entity to stop acting like a leech with its onerous late fee tax. Karib Cable, your lack of proper service is simply HORRIBLE. Gary Stewart
Get the Âbig fellowsÊ EVERY WEEK, especially on Mondays, when I visit the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court, there is a string of young men brought before the magistrate on marijuana charges. Some of them have such little amounts of the weed, that I wonder if it makes sense to arrest and charge them. Now I am not saying that the fellows should continue doing what they know is against the law; but I can’t help but wonder why the nigger operators are not targeted. As far as I can understand, it is these
nigger fellows who finance the drug business which, I understand, also involves the more expensive cocaine. It is these big fellows who encourage all the crime among our young people. Where are the young men getting all these guns? They have to get them from somewhere, and I want to believe that it is these same big fellows with their contacts who provide the guns. I must say that the Prime Minister has been doing the right thing.
We are a nation by Marlon Roudette From an adopted corner of London I think of home. And slowly hum the national anthem As my forgotten island writhes beneath the waters Of her nature’s latest tantrum. The news that filtered through to me that day, Was of the roof tops of rum shops That had finally come to rest In the estuary where we used to catch our tri tri fish. So I held my breath…….. As if it were I being swept beneath the barely standing bridges. A coconut husk of a man whisked away Among the palms and flotsam, Turning over and over like a-half-a-slippers. They said the roads became rivers, And the rivers became aggression. Throbbing veins of topsoil, An Exodus of life and all possession. And as the death toll rose to ten there was still nothing on the BBC, But a cluster of scientists got themselves stuck in some Antarctic ice, No room in the headlines for we. So my fellow mercenary wonderers and I gathered, Remotely, Subdued but glued to our devices. Awaiting stories of survival, Told by distant voices from the crisis. From an adopted corner of London I think of home, and slowly hum….
He has seen to it that some of the big fellows are locked away. But there are more big fellows out there. I don’t want to think that they are protected. We need to do all we can do, like supporting
the authorities so that we can catch the big fish, and we mustn’t be afraid on stepping on some big toes. CJ
Police too relaxed I AM AN EX-COP and taxpayer, and the new Commissioner is asking for the nation’s help in solving crimes; but how can we? On Friday, 24th January 2014, two drug growers and pushers had an encounter. One ‘bad John’ cut another, 2 or 3 places on his body with a cutlass. A report was made to the police, who then went in search of the culprit at his home. They (police) met his common-law wife of some 5 months pregnant, who said he was not at home. As the police tried to enter, she blocked the doorway with her body. This gave her man (culprit), who was hiding inside, time to jump out a back window with 2 guns and the cutlass, all because they (police) didn’t have a search warrant. Now, both the girlfriend and the cop had a tangle; the girl got her dress and panty torn. The cop left for the station, and the girl remained at home. Sir, up to today, 29/01/14, no arrest has been made. Why was the woman not charged for assaulting an officer or * Did the Board of for obstructing justice? VINLEC even Now, the word is that consider doing what the culprit held up a St. Lucia did male ‘in the bush’ with recently, and ease his gun and took his the electricity rates cellular. That male is to consumers during afraid for his life, so no this period of report was made to the hardship? * Is it true that when police, even, as some the Director of people say, the culprit’s NEMO should have girlfriend has been seen been in the field, he walking about with a was ordered to cellular. remain in office to The culprit remains on write a report for a the run, but information Government is that he sleeps in the Minister of high rank? village every night, and * Is SVG prepared girlfriend takes meals for for this Caribbean him daily. He (culprit) is Primary Exit also seen coming from a Assessment (CPEA) certain house. But the thing? Has anybody situation is that people canvassed the are afraid to talk. primary schools for The police need to do an assessment on how this is going? something. When you * Did any of that make reports on these water that came in culprits, your life is in for persons affected danger, and the system by the Christmas just seems not capable of rains end up in handling the situation. homes that could afford to buy water? Taxpayer
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10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Some critical issues of fiscal policy
Excerpt from the 2014 Budget Address by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves MR. SPEAKER, in my speech in this Honourable House on the occasion of the presentation of the 2013 Budget, I drew attention to the fact that the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is “sui generis” ___ of its own kind; unique. Accordingly, I laid out a series of practical issues for policy consideration. Among other things, I addressed critically the oft-repeated, general advice of the IMF for “emerging markets and developing countries” to embark upon the policies of fiscal tightening and monetary easing in the context of downside risks and global economic uncertainty, insofar as the small, vulnerable, open economies of the ECCU are concerned. I insist that this general advice from global financial institutions must always pass the tests of relevance, appropriateness, and a correct reading of our region’s economic history, for us to embrace it. I repeat: the small, open, dependent island economies in the ECCU are “sui generis”. Analysis and prescription must recognise this; and we must have the intellectual rigour and confidence to say so. Correct Fiscal Policy Accordingly, a correct fiscal policy in the current domestic and external circumstances has, as I stated in my Budget Address, “to be creatively sculptured without unbalancing the overall economy and weakening internal demand. A correct fiscal policy balance has to be struck between the requirement of permissible fiscal buffers over time, and the need to stimulate further the economy.” Mr. Speaker, over the almost thirteen years of this ULP government, there has been extensive assessments of our fiscal policy. In the period 2001 to 2008, inclusive, prior to the global economic meltdown, the discussions centred on the efficacy of my government’s counter-cyclical fiscal policy which contained two central elements: an increase in public spending (recurrent and capital), and a reduction of corporate and personal income taxes to enhance private consumption and investment. Such a policy option was justified in the extant circumstances so as to enhance the quality of life and create wealth and employment My government acknowledged that a counter-cyclical fiscal policy was only sustainable for a relatively short period of time. Accordingly, by 2006, a tapering off of the recurrent expenditure increases was in place, save and except, for the significant salary increases for public servants (including teachers, police officers, and medical/nursing personnel) due especially to the implementation of a “Reclassification Exercise in the Public Service” in 2007. On the capital side, there was focused, necessary, developmental expenditure.
the Grenadines, estimated to cost roughly US $265 million, or some EC $700 million. Globally, after 2008, the fiscal response oscillated between “austerity” and “stimulus”. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we considered “austerity” to be counter-productive; instead we fashioned some fiscal space for a measured “stimulus” package. So, to suit the specific, unique circumstances of our country’s economy and fiscal condition, we advanced the fiscal framework of “prudence and enterprise”. “Prudence” on all fronts especially on recurrent expenditure, but focussed enterprising fiscal activity through the targeted capital spending of the central government and the capital budgets of state enterprises such as VINLEC, CWSA, National Properties Limited, National Lotteries Authority, Petro Caribe, and the International Airport Development Company. At the same time, vital reforms were introduced in tax administration so as to enhance tax collection without increasing the rate of taxation.
No to Austerity In my Budget Addresses from 2009 onwards, my government made it plain that it will not succumb to an illadvised “austerity” advocated by some locally, regionally, and internationally. I have listened to their mantra of severe cut-backs in recurrent spending and of tax increases. In St. Vincent and the Grenadines their “austere” expenditure cuts would undoubtedly include a socially indigestible menu: Abolishing the YES Programme and the Home-Help-For-The-Elderly Programme; cutting public assistance; removing the payment of annual increments to public servants; cutting sharply the allocations to goods and services, materials and supplies, including medical supplies; laying-off workers and public servants; cutting subventions to the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College, some other public enterprises, and the University of the West Indies; slashing payments to students of the School of Nursing and grants to University students; removing duty-free concessions on Christmas barrels and to religious institutions; cutting back on special employment for road cleaning; rolling back the housing and land distribution programme for low-income and poor persons; shelving implementation of the Support for Employment and Training Programme for College and University graduates; and delaying the implementation of the Farmers’ Support Programme. From these aggregate cutbacks at least EC $65 million could be “saved”. But my government will not take that route in slashing spending in this “austere” way. The advocates of fiscal austerity also recommend tax increases, including on External Forces In July 2008, oil prices skyrocketed VAT, which they suggest could yield at least EC $20 - $30 million in additional internationally to US $147.50 per barrel; and in September 2008, Lehman revenues. But my government will avoid that kind of austere action. I Brothers collapsed giving rise to a await with great interest the financial crisis which metamorphosed recommendations of those in this quickly into a horrendous global Honourable House who clamour for economic depression, the worst for almost 100 years. On August 13, 2008, “austerity”, a “balanced” budget, and a “surplus” on the current account at a my government commenced the time of continuing global and regional planned construction of the Argyle economic uncertainty and downside International Airport, an absolute risks, and low growth in the domestic economic necessity, and the largest economy. capital project ever in St. Vincent and
TOURISM Excerpts from the Hon. Arnhim Eustace’s 2014 Budget Presentation THE PERIOD 2008 - 2012 has been one of mainly negative growth for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The tourism performance for 2013, as indicated in the Ministry’s result indicators that not much has changed in the tourism sector to improve the negative growth performance in the Vincentian economy. Tourism stay-over arrivals based on information from the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) shows that these arrivals have declined by more than 6.7% for 2013, and that room occupancy rates remain low at 38% for St. Vincent and 35% for the Grenadines. Even visitor arrivals during the festival periods like Carnival declined by 4% - not a pretty picture at all. Since 2008, for the OECS countries, St. Vincent ranks last or second to last behind St. Lucia, Grenada, Antigua and St. Kitts, and competes only with Dominica for the bottom ranking. St. Lucia arrivals are about five (5) times as high as compared to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Antigua is three (3) times higher and Grenada 1 1/2 times higher. I assume that one will excuse this because the three (3) countries mentioned above have an international airport, but our tourism product needs more than just an international airport. A lot more needs to be done to improve the performance, particularly in the areas of promotion, tourism sites development, conditions in Kingstown, and even our attitude to tourism. Often as I look at the data coming out of the Ministry of Tourism, with respect to the industry’s performance in the New Year; I sometimes have the impression that no thought is given to the proposals or the targets set for the Ministry and the Tourism Authority. The Ministry for instance, for 2013 forecast that they would get 250,000 hits on its website; in fact they got only 74,000 or about 29% of the target. With respect; to information requests coming from outside, the Ministry targeted that they would get about 2,000 requests, in fact they got over 64,000. Something has to be wrong with the forecasting! Can they be that far off? When they can get thirty two (32) times as much request for information than they targeted. How much of this was responded to is another question. It is noteworthy that, with respect to 2014 despite the performance indicated for 2013, the Ministry has made the same projections again, 250,000 hits and 2,000 requests. The same situation is indicated with respect to stay-over arrivals. The Ministry projected an increase in arrivals of over 2.5%, but in fact had a decline of 6.7%. The projection for same day visitors was 5%, but the decline was actually 12%. For yacht visitors, the projection was 2%, but the out turn was 1.2%. For cruise ships, the projection was for 5%, but in fact 12.9% was achieved. When one looks at stay over arrivals from our main markets: 2% was projected from the USA, it was in fact 9%; Canada 3% projection, in reality it was 2.5%,
UK / Europe 1.5% projected, it was in fact 12.7%, and the Caribbean, 1.5%, 15% achieved. The projections done by the Ministry and the Tourism Authority are basically useless! Despite the outcome for 2013, they have put back the same projections for 2014. What kind of projections for the last few years did the Ministry really make? Was it a bad joke, laziness or incompetence? But the Ministry, having seen the performance for 2013, would put back the same projections for 2014. Does this represent a total lack of concern? Only time and the Ministry can answer this question. And when one takes into account that the website was built in an attempt to create global awareness of St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a tourist destination and to generate data specific to the source markets and market niches required to measure our performance in marketing, one can see that those responsible for marketing us as a destination do not take this issue seriously. What are the factors highlighted by the Ministry or the Tourism Authority to improve arrivals in 2014 or raise the low occupancy rate from the 30’s? Certainly, the new airport will not do it, nor will LIAT’s high fares, nor our poor projections for the website. What would in fact the Ministry and the Tourism Authority do to attract more visitors to St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2014? This was not clear, even in the estimates approved in December, it is even less clear now, since the Christmas Eve floods.
Private Sector The local private sector is upset by the amount of money owed to them by the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The debt to the sector can be found in the item called ‘amounts payable’, and as of September 30, 2013, stood at EC$ 56,686,441; in 2012 the figure was EC$ 59.4 million, so very little has been paid. What is the impact on the private sector of the non payment by the government? First of all, the cash flow of the business is severely affected; they have less cash-on-hand to carry out their business, and often have to take out loans at overdraft interest rates which are higher than other loans to do their business, which will mean increased cost to consumers of the goods and services that they sell. Because of increased costs of operations, their profits are likely to be lower. In the negative or low growth economy like our own, the situation becomes even more difficult in terms of consumer demand for their products. This is likely to lead to lower profits and layoffs of workers as is presently the case, which will also negatively affect the revenue of the government. This can lead to higher taxes, thus less to invest, a real vicious cycle. It should also be recalled that a number of businesses and institutions have lost millions of dollars in the British American situation.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 11.
Views
A chance to grow and to glow
“We may face some limiting circumstance today. Whether it is the result of our failure, or through no fault of our own, we can ‘go’ through it or seek God’s strength to ‘grow’ through it. The challenge of every confinement is to increase rather than decrease; to grow and not diminish.” — David McCasland, American author Life is filled with a variety of tragedies. They come in many shapes and forms. And they often seem to appear when we least expect them or seem to be in the least likely position to cope with them. Consider the young athlete who appears to be at the pinnacle of his career, and then discovers that he has a chronic heart problem, or a damaged muscle, or some similarly tragic circumstance. He looks at his future, and realises that from that moment on, he is likely to see the diminishing of his fame and fortune. He knows that it is only a matter of time before the boisterous crowds who cheered him on, will be silent (where he is concerned). Or consider the attractive young lady who pauses to celebrate her outstanding academic achievements, and joins friends in the grand commemoration of her accomplishments. She knows better than to dabble with alcohol or drugs. But for that brief moment, she unwisely decides to “enjoy life” ... and she later discovers that those “moments of merriment” would be a significant turning point in her life. That one-time-only act invited her to a series of dark, life-changing experiences ... and she now expects a “new life”; an unexpected life that will change her life in ways that she never expected. And we can think of so many other scenarios where life can place the unexpected before us. Sometimes we may make choices that encourage and entertain such challenges. But there are times when, seemingly “out of the blues”, they greet us uninvited. On the surface, we may react with feelings of resentment, disappointment, anger, self-pity, and so on. But those very same challenging situations often bring so many opportunities for growth. Life’s tragedies often provide us with multiple opportunities to grow. This is true in relation to those tragedies that impact our bodies (i.e. disease, accidents, amputations, etc.), as it is in relation to those tragedies that involve others (i.e. strained relationships, separations, divorce, inter-personal conflicts, etc.). Sometimes we concentrate so much on the actual challenge that we fail to see beyond the particular circumstance. This seems to be especially so when we conclude that the particular event is extremely traumatic. But there is life beyond the tragedy (regardless of how intense the physical or emotional pain). However, it is often when we are in the middle of the event, that we are least likely to appreciate this truth.
There is so much growth that can take place as we go through the pain and the hurt. There is so much good that can emerge from a bad situation. There is so much beauty that can emerge from an ugly incident. Every last one of those seemingly debilitating experiences have the potential to create endless growth in our lives. We can minimise and control the devastation when we realise that we are in transit. We are going through. It will not last forever. And we can make it successfully when we understand and appreciate that “this, too, will pass”. Many of life’s situations that we perceive will diminish us (or who we are), can be turned around to magnify the richness of our character and our resolve. Let us look at life’s setbacks and detours differently now. We no longer view them merely as obstacles. We no longer see them merely as setbacks. We no longer perceive them to be hindrances. But, rather, we see them as opportunities for us to learn and to grow. Life would be boring if there were no challenges. Life is not filled only with mountain top experiences (where everything is going well). We will have our deep valley experiences too. And it often seems that it is in the valley that we learn and grow most. We learn from the body builder who knows that one of the secrets to building a strong body is to lift heavy weights. So we lift! We discipline ourselves to face life’s challenges head on ... and win. We can regroup after disappointments and failures. Thomas Watson, IBM’s founder, once said it so well when he stated that, “If you want to increase your rate of success, you better be prepared to increase your rate of failure.” We press on, therefore, taking a new look at life’s challenges and our failures. We are not daunted by the number of times that we faltered and slipped ... or failed to try. We will learn from those experiences and press forward and upward. Those setbacks, those failures, those disappointments, those traumatic experiences, have provided us with opportunities to grow ... and to glow. We shine forth through those dark experiences. So we will not squander those valuable life lessons. We see them for what they are, and see ourselves for what we are worth. Many of life’s disappointments are meant to make us better ... not bitter. We thank God for those priceless opportunities that have provided us with a chance to grow and to glow! Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to julesferdinand@gmail.com
America and Europe are ablaze? St Vincent and much of the developing world are dependent on the developed countries of the United States and Europe for aid and trade. Since 2008, the USA and Europe have been plagued by serious financial problems. Major thinkers and institutions like the International Monetary Fund as well as establishment politicians have been prescribing austerity policies as a way to lift the world economy on to a path of growth away from depression. The most ludicrous of the IMF inspired ideas was to steal 40 percent of deposits in personal accounts in Cyprus. The most frequently asked question these days is: How much sicker does the patient have to get before the doctors stop prescribing poison? A careful read of major newspapers is revealing: New York Times - ‘Unemployment in Euro Zone Reaches a Record High’; WSJ - ‘Sixth Quarter of Contraction Looms for Euro Zone’; Der Spigel — ‘Shredded Social Safety Net: European Austerity Costing Lives’; WSJ: ‘Spain Says Budget Gap Is Wider Than Reported’; New York Times: ‘European Car Sales Point to Continuing Slump; WSJ: ‘Italy Unable to Form Government; and New York Times — ‘Debt Rising in Europe’. Richard Eskow writes (April 2, 2013 on Campaign for America’s Future: ‘, Paul Krugman’s (The Nobel laureate and New York Times columnist) right: This isn’t a recession. It’s Europe’s Second Depression, and it’s on track to last even longer than the first one. Austerity economics has been imposed across most of the Eurozone, to a greater or lesser degree, with devastating economic results. This is Europe’s sixth consecutive quarter of economic contraction. Europe’s Austerity Recession (or Depression) has now lasted longer than the one brought on by the financial crisis of 2008. ‘The first downturn was brought on by private greed and public negligence. This one’s been brought on by public insanity fueled by private interests. ‘And the austerity poison is literally deadly. The Lancet, a respected medical journal, reports a sharp increase in suicides and epidemics as the result of European austerity measures.’ European entertainers are increasingly resorting to holding concerts in which they ask patrons to bring food instead of the ticket charge, so that the food can then be distributed to families who cannot afford food. Eskow continues: ‘It’s nice to know that somebody’s thinking about the victims of austerity in Europe where people in Spain, Portugal, Italy, England, Cyprus and Russia have been forced fed with one dose of austerity medicine after another. ‘Meanwhile, manufacturing output is plunging across the Eurozone. Spain saw the worst decline in employment since 2009. Unemployment hasn’t been this high in the Eurozone since record-keeping began in 1995.’ And Europe’s infrastructure is competing with their American cousins to see which will deteriorate fastest. “Europe’s carefully maintained autobahns, high-speed TGV trains and vast network of modern airports have long been the envy of the world,” writes Reuters. “But thanks to austerity budgets that are slashing
infrastructure spending …, that may not be true for much longer.” Eskow again: ‘No wonder last month’s European Union summit was marked by protests and Italy’s leaders still can’t form a government.” What can the rest of the world and we in the Caribbean learn from Europe’s misery? In the US, Europe’s problems seem not to faze its leadership. For our political leaders, the answer seems to be: Nothing. The US seems determined to follow in Europe’s footsteps. There has already been a couple of rounds of austerity, in the last deficit deal, and now in the “sequester” cuts. Eskow writes that ‘The President and the Republicans both employ proausterity rhetoric which argues that deficits are the country’s biggest problem. They just disagree about where and how it should be imposed.’ Once the big corporations are satisfied, the Democratic and Republican Leadership express hardly a concern. In the Caribbean, we carry on in true J’Ouvert fashion as though nothing bothers us. One gets the distinct impression that many who hold top management and government positions don’t have a clue as to how to reorder our societies, so that the most vulnerable among us can claim a better and bigger stake in the system. The depth of clueless becomes manifest when we read or listen to editorialists, columnist and others of influence say that too much is made of the world economic crisis. They offer not a single suggestion as to how we can get onto the path of sustainable growth. Well, not quite true. Opposition leader, Arnhim Eustace has confidently called on government to tighten the spending belt. ‘There is nothing wrong with austerity,’ he proclaimed during the 2011 budget debate. So there is a clear difference in position between the PM and the PM in waiting. Gonsalves says that in difficult economic times, there is no way that the country’s economy will survive, much less grow, unless the government intervenes by borrowing and spending. Eustace says these are times for belt tightening. How we tighten our belts when the private sector has limited capacity to invest and create employment sounds like a recipe for real difficulties for those most in need. But to say this is to gain the label anti-Eustace. But truth must be told. For if the austerity poison is creating hardship in the more developed parts of the parts of the world, we can only guess what it will do here. Just look at the impact of the IMF programme in Jamaica. We believe that our fortune is wrapped up with solutions to the crisis in international capitalism. Unless there is a major realignment of international financial, economic and trading relations, there is going to be little or no people-centered development. Everything else may aid the bureaucrats and elites, but will surely harm the poor. Send comments, criticisms & suggestions to wefirst@aol.com
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12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
ULP begging causing stagnated economy The ULP regime’s 13-year foreign policy of begging is a serious detriment to our country. It has caused the economy to stagnate, and fostered low self–esteem throughout SVG. This has directly harmed the development of our people, as some people get the wrong impression that begging is a substitute for real work. Begging is not the solution to SVG’s problems of fiscal deficits, a weak economy and high unemployment. Begging is not sustainable and cannot make our economy strong or give our people the high levels of industrial skills needed to attract foreign investment. Each time the ULP leadership beats its chest about the begging that it does, the SVG economy falls deeper into dilapidation. The ULP’s reliance on begging has negatively impacted the SVG economy. Many people SVG Green Party has spoken to, say that the ULP regime has been a disaster for our economy and country. The ULP regime’s example of begging has had serious social implications, and some businesses have indicated that there are people who do not want to work, based on the assumption that they can do like the ULP regime and make a living from begging. The begging mentality spread by the ULP regime has a disempowering effect upon our people. Many
to 2014, and SVG to be heavily in debt. We have to become an industrious nation and modernise our economy so that it is export orientated. people feel disempowered to change their We must invest large sums of money in highcircumstances, and feel that they do not have the quality education, and train our people to a high ability to better themselves. The consequence is that level of industrial skills. This will enable us to many people have low levels of self-esteem and self- overcome the chronic high rates of unemployment confidence, and see begging as the only solution to and the repeated yearly poor standards of education their problems. we have seen under the ULP regime. Under the begging regime, our country has Begging will never create a surplus revenue econobecome financially much weaker and dependent on my or bring prosperity to our people. foreign aid, and our people have become much poorer and virtually second class citizens in their SVG Green Party own country. Economic development has been www.svggreenparty.org paralysed under the ULP begging phenomenon. The ULP regime is a waste of time. SVG must drop the ULP begging policy and become an industrious country. We must be industrious: produce more food and other things for ourselves; educate our children to university level; rebuild our nation’s pride and the self-esteem and self-confidence of our people. By being industrious, we will create thousands of new jobs, see the emergence of hundreds of entrepreneurs and new, small businesses, keep more money in the country with import substitution, be better able to solve our own problems, and significantly reduce our dependency on other countries. (L-R): Costian Cupid, Tharthan McKie and Prophetess Kim Cupid of Awesome Praise The ULP begging regime has caused SVG to sufPromotion, are on a mission to return SVG to a fer ten consecutive years of fiscal deficits from 2005 land of the blessed.
Digicel Business wins Ultimate Avaya award Concert to bring blessings on SVG
FULL-SERVICE business solutions provider, Digicel Business, is the winner of the coveted Avaya, ‘Partner of the Year’ award. The award was presented on Thursday, January 16 at the Avaya Partner Connection Day event held in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Avaya’s Managing Director for the Caribbean and Central America, Jose Fernandez, lauded Digicel Business’ achievement saying; “We would like to congratulate Digicel Business on its award as Best Business Partner for the Caribbean and Central America region. This award exemplifies Digicel Business’ commitment and dedication to meeting all of our customers’ needs in the multiple lines of business that we bring to the market.” The award ceremony, which marked the end of week of conferences and seminars, was held to recognise and award Avaya’s best partners and collaborators in 2013. This year, Digicel Business was nominated in four categories including, Best Marketing Partner of the Year, Best Project of the Year and Best Sales Executive of the Year. In 2012, Digicel Business won the Best Project of the Year award for the Digicel Contact Centre and Sales Executive of the Year was awarded to Digicel Business Enterprise Account Manager, Duwayne Watson. “We are delighted with the recognition from Avaya. We have
Digicel Business Enterprise Account Manager Duwayne Watson (third right), collects the Avaya Partner of the Year award from Avaya’s Systems Sales Engineer, Nikolas Schnoor (second right) at the Avaya Partner Connection Day Awards held in Puerto Rico on January 16. Looking on are (from left to right), Marketing Manager for the Caribbean and Central America, Ramon Lopez; Managing Director Jose Fernandez; Channel Sales Leader Santiago Aguirre and another official. been very focussed on expanding our technical integration capabilities and the broad range of technologies we can offer to our customers in Caribbean and LATAM markets, and we see this award as total endorsement of that strategy and recognition of how Digicel has evolved from a mobile telecommunications provider into being the leading business solutions provider in the region.” said Tom Carson, CEO, Digicel Business Solutions.
Avaya is a leading global provider of next-generation business collaboration and communications solutions, providing unified communications, real-time video collaboration, contact center, networking and related services to companies of all sizes around the world. The international headquarters is in Santa Clara, California, United States. (Contributed)
“THERE IS A CURSE in the land, and we must take it off, so that SVG can return to being a blessed land.” This is how Prophetess Kim Cupid described the purpose of a concert dubbed ‘Stepping into New Beginnings’, scheduled for the Diamond Deliverance Assembly (old Diamond drive-in cinema), February 1, 2014, at 6:00 p.m. The concert, which will feature internationally acclaimed, Vincentian-born gospel singer Bridget Blucher, is, according to Prophetess Kim, aimed at young men in particular, to “urge them to build faith and change their ways. “Too much blood is in our land .. there are already two murders for the year. This is a wakeup call to rid the land of the curse (since) blessed and curse cannot exist together,” she continued. The concert is a promotion of Awesome Praise Promotions headed by Costian Cupid. He told THE VINCENTIAN that in addition to the overriding purpose of the concert, as described by Prophetess Kim, the occasion will be used as an opportunity to donate to the national relief effort following the Christmas floods. Patrons are being encouraged to bring along donations of food items, clothing and cash, which will be collected at the entrance gate, for distribution to affected families. Cupid assured that receipts for cash donations will be available on request. Singing evangelist Bridget Blucher will be joined in the cast by local acts, including Fenton Harry with the Jesus Muzik Band, Curtis Waw, Ammishadd, Bro. Thrathan McKie, Evangelist Shirley Browne and former calypsonian cum Pastor, Lennie ‘Surpriser’ Francois. Corporate sponsorship for the concert has been pledged by St. Vincent Brewery Ltd. in the name of VitaMalt, Nice Radio, IK TV, Ben’s Auto and COURTS (St. Vincent) Ltd. Ticket outlets include Singer, COURTS, Music Centre, Ferdies Footsteps, Aycess Supermarket (Calliaqua), Val-U Drugs and Randy’s at Diamond.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 13.
People
Vincentian chef making waves in ÂBig AppleÊ YOUNG VINCENTIAN chef Kamal Rose is making a big name for himself in the USA. Kamal, the son of local journalist Conley ‘Chivambo’ Rose and Giselle Francis, is one of a number of chefs preparing gourmet meals on the occasion of America’s premier sporting event, the National Football League’s (NFL) Super Bowl being held in New York this upcoming Sunday, Feb. 2. Kamal, Executive Chef at the prestigious Tribeca Grill in New York, and his fellow chefs, are participating in a fund-raising series of events, called the ‘Taste of the NFL’ aimed at raising awareness and funds for hunger relief organisations in the USA, and a number of them are being held to coincide with the Super Bowl. In honour of their contribution, leading figures from the ‘Taste’, including Kamal, were invited on Tuesday of this week to be among the dignitaries participating in the traditional closing ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange. He is also featured in the Jan. 27 issue of the very popular PEOPLE magazine with his recipe on New York style cheesecakes, which he is preparing for the Taste’s pre-Super Bowl party on Feb 1. Last year, Kamal was also at the Super Bowl in New Orleans serving up a speciality of Shrimp Creole and Dirty Rice. Kamal is described as “an inspiring story of talent, persistence and hard work”. His bloodlines, on both sides of his family, are in the food business, but he claims inspiration from his paternal grandmother, Mrs Germaine ‘Granny’ Rose, of legendary child-care fame. He migrated to New York at age 15, and in his senior year in High School got the opportunity of an internship at Tribeca. He made full use of this to
Kamal Rose and his many signature dishes reflect his Caribbean heritage, his travels and his desire to showcase local products.
Kamal Rose was awarded a $20,000 culinary scholarship by Kraft FoodservicSe for winning the 2009 Chefs of Grey Poupon Student Culinary Competition, held on May6, 2009, in Chisago.
Kamal Rose (left) was a part of the Taste of the NFL team which rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Janaury 28, 2014. work his way up, and in 2009, having participated in a national cooking competition, obtained a scholarship at the Institute of Culinary Education from which he graduated. His work ethic, passion and leadership earned him promotion to Executive Chef at Tribeca in 2012. He has prepared meals for many
top-class events in the USA, presenting his signature dishes which reflect his Caribbean (and Vincentian) heritage, and his desire to showcase local products. Curiously, Kamal’s passion for cooking was once frowned upon by his peers. Today he is a shining example and role model for our aspiring young people.
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14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
ÂGold TeethÊsÊ matter very serious, says Commissioner
Glasgow $200 for contempt of Court. When contacted on Monday, Chairman of the Police Service Commission Cecil ‘Blazer’ Williams told the publication that no report in relation to the matter had been sent to the PSC by the relevant Civilians are saying that Calvin COP Michael Charles ministry. ‘Gold Teeth’ Glasgow may have promised that a report will be “We would met his match. forwarded to the Police look at Service Commission. whatever Stories by HAYDN reports are HUGGINS necessary reports will be submitted, and decide forwarded to the Police upon what action, if any, COMMISSIONER OF Police, Service Commission we should take,” Williams Michael Charles, has (PSC).” described as “very serious” The Commissioner was explained. a recent matter in which Issues of a disciplinary speaking to THE Inspector Calvin ‘Gold Teeth’ VINCENTIAN last nature from the rank of Glasgow was held in Saturday, three days after Station Sergeant to contempt of court. Commissioner, are dealt Chief Magistrate Sonya And the Commissioner with by the Police Service Young fined Inspector has assured that “the Commission. The reports
are usually received through the Ministry of National Security. Last week Wednesday, the Chief Magistrate was dealing with traffic matters at the Serious Offences Court building when a defendant appeared before her in a case in which Glasgow was the arresting officer. Glasgow entered the witness stand while the magistrate was speaking to the defendant. She told Glasgow that she was not ready for him and asked him to step out. Glasgow ‘sucked his teeth’, while leaving the dock. WhenYoung inquired of him if he had ‘sucked his teeth’, and he replied in the affirmative. As a result, he was held in contempt of Court. Glasgow had been a traffic cop for several years and is familiar with court proceedings.
Georgetown men succeed on appeal TWO RESIDENTS OF CHILE Village, Georgetown, were ordered a retrial this week after having their robbery convictions quashed and ten year sentences set aside. During a sitting of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal on Monday, Justices of Appeal, Davidson Baptiste, Mario Michel and Louise Blenman, agreed with all three grounds of appeal attorney Kay Bacchus-Browne argued on behalf of Urlon Frederick and Zelroy Joseph. Bacchus-Browne argued that the trial Judge misapplied the hearsay rules, and that the foreman of the jury was in breach of the directions laid down by the court, in
detailing how the foreman should ask questions of the jury. Bacchus-Browne also contended that the trial judge erred in not giving a proper or adequate direction on the good characters of the appellants to the jury. Frederick and Joseph were each sentenced to ten years in prison at the Criminal Assizes after a nine-member jury, on June 28, 2012, found them guilty of robbing Oscar Nanton of Chapman’s Village, Georgetown, of two gold chains and a pendent valued EC$800 and $251 in cash. According to the prosecution’s case, Nanton was slapped, kicked and relieved of the items and cash.
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 15.
Diaspora
Adventists hold successful relief gospel concert
Story and photos by NELSON A. KING naking@verizon.net; neloking@msn.com US CORRESPONDENT
VAAA President Beverly Regisford-Henry. Below: Tamarah Jackson, during her monologue, Without right shoe.
IN ENSURING THAT THEY are not left out of relief efforts for those affected by the Christmas floods in SVG, the Seventh-day Adventist Church staged a very successful gospel concert in Brooklyn. The event — which took place on Sat., Jan. 18, at Boys and Girls High School, on Fulton Street in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn — was organized by the Brooklyn-based Vincentian American Adventist Association (VAAA), in collaboration with the New York Consulate General. Despite the bitterly cold weather, the three-hourodd-long concert attracted a wide section of the Vincentian community in New York, A number of leading Vincentian and Caribbean gospel artistes and groups participated in the fundraising effort that also featured poetry, drama and steel pan music. Participating Vincentian gospel artistes comprised, among others, Theophilus Homer, of Richland Park; Ellsworth
“Lifeboy” Quammie, of Stubbs; Monodel Ollivierre, of Bequia; Vonetta Richards, of Chauncey; and Abena Amory-Powell, daughter of Erlene Williams-King. Jamaican Odayne Rhoden and Trinidadian Wayne Johnson were among Caribbean gospel artistes. The Seventh-day Adventist Majestic Heights Steel Orchestra banged out gospel rhythms to the appreciative audience. Richland Park native Tamarah Jackson also waxed nostalgic with drama and a poem, written by Malanie Bynoe, of Georgetown, on the “good old days” in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Also featured was Beverly Regisford-Henry, VAAA president, from Simon in the Biabou area, who rendered a medley. Regisford-Henry told THE VINCENTIAN afterwards that VAAA was “honored” to be a part of the disaster relief effort. She said when she first suggested a gospel concert to help raise funds — at an emergency meeting, at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center in Brooklyn, called by the Consulate General on Dec. 26 — she did so without consulting with her group. “I was, however, confident that they would embrace the idea, given the mission of our organization,” RegisfordHenry said. “My members did not disappoint me. They took up the challenge and made a sterling effort to promote the concert and sell tickets. “Considering the short time in which this event was conceived and executed, I am very grateful for the support we received from fellow Vincentians and other Caribbean nationals,” she added. The gospel concert was the latest in a series of events in which Vincentians, friends and supporters in the United States have responded to the freak Christmas storm at home. On Sat., Feb. 8, the New York Consulate General will collaborate with three Vincentian divas, known as BMZ Entertainment — Bernadette Saunders, Monique Ingrid Neverson and Zulema George — in hosting a fashion/talent show to aid primarily the pediatric ward at the Milton Cato Memorial
Hospital in Kingstown. The show, dubbed “Runway Rippers with a Difference”, will be held at the Friends of Crown Heights Educational Center, from 5-9 pm. To date, the Brooklynbased St. Vincent and the Grenadines Relief Steering Committee of New York, which is spearheading relief efforts in the “Big Apple”, said it has dispatched a large number of supplies home, and another 40-ft container is expected to be shipped during the first
week of February. Deputy Consul General Edson Augustus, who is also deputy chairman of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Relief Steering Committee of New York, told THE VINCENTIAN that he has also begun a “Sheet Drive”, throughout the United States, in which he seeks at least 5,000 white, twin sheets for all hospitals and clinics in St. Vincent and the Grenadines by endApril.
Section of Seventh-day Majestic Steel Orchestra. Inset: Theophilus Homer making his contribution in song.
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 17.
16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
BECKET headlined on Sunday afternoon to huge crowds at De Reef.
Elite Steel Orchestra at the Frangipani Hotel
The Mustique Blues Festival with Dino Baptiste performed on Friday night.
The Country Relatives
Late night at De Reef on Saturday with Soka Kartel.
“A hard act to follow!” Minister of Tourism, Sport and Culture, the Hon. Cecil McKie visited Bequia for the Festival. Speaking at the official opening on the Friday night event before the Mustique Blues Festival took to the stage, the Minister expressed his
day 23rd at the Frangipani Hotel, Knights on piano, Thomas when a record crowd packed the Richards on bass, world famous waterfront bar to “Flour” Haddaway on hear the outstanding young drums, and Hermus talent of the 11- piece Elite “Sugars” Nelson’s Steel Orchestra from mainBand Solutions land St. Vincent. winding up the Friday night belonged to evening before the Mustique Blues Festival, sundown. The with record crowds turning Bequia Beach Hotel out to see the legendary Dana was the perfect pleasure at Gillespie perform with her setting to draw the being present, London Blues Band and guests. crowds, as hundreds of and welcomed Basil Charles introduced the people gathered in the visitors, yachtsmen and all attendees electrifying evening which includlovely hotel gardens by to the Bequia Music Fest - one of the ed guest performances by British Music Fest the beach to eat, drink Director Sabrina and enjoy the music. many festivals that St. Vincent has to Blues guitar legend Ian Siegal, offer. The Minister gave thanks to the Dino Baptiste on keyboard, “Best Mitchell opened the event on new Director of the Bequia Music Fest Heating up the weekend New Blues Artist” Zac Harmon Sabrina Mitchell, and the Bequia and the extraordinary “Queen of Thursday night. Tourism Association, for a job well Down at De Reef, the the Blues” Shemekia Copeland. BAJAN done. massive crowd on Saturday night With Jake Zaitz on guitar, Jeff Walker BAND OF The Minister acknowledged that enjoyed a perfect evening, with some on bass, Mike Paice on saxophone and THE YEAR, Soka the not-for-profit Bequia Music Fest, liming outside under the stars to harmonica, pianist Matthew Gest, and Kartel, Cover Drive, conceived by the BTA 14 years ago to watch the action on the 20ft live feed drummers Enrico Morena and Jamie Nj30+ and Vincentian Calypsonian create a much-needed boost to the screen, but most in the packed nightLittle, Dana Gillespie and her band Alston ‘Becket ‘Cyrus all rocked De tourism economy on Bequia, is now club atmosphere inside the venue. and guests gave truly sensational Reef last weekend for the Bequia well established as a highly signifiAfter an opening set on Saturday performances, leaving the audience Tourism Association’s 11th Anniversacant event in the national tourism night from Bequia’s band Infinity, it hungry for more. ry Bequia Mount Gay Music Fest, calendar. Sabrina Mitchell also was the turn of NJ3O+ who gave a Basil Charles’ Mustique Blues which ran from Thursday, January welcomed all patrons and expressed thrilling, high energy performance, musicians graciously volunteer their 23rd to Sunday January 26th! her confidence that the Music Fest featuring super-talented bassist performance in Bequia in exchange for Record numbers of visitors came to has something for everyone, with a Marius Charlemagne, brilliant young a generous contribution by the event Bequia for the weekend, filling every wide variety of music genres to please horn players Joseph Callender Jr. on organisers to the Basil Charles Educahotel room and apartment to capacity. all musical tastes. sax and 19-year old Kweku Jelani on tion Foundation. Over 200 yachts graced Admiralty trumpet, Juanita Clarke on percusBay, adding to the festive atmosphere, sion, Marlon Braithwaite on Kicking Off ‘Jamming’ on the beach while hundreds of mainlanders keyboards, with guest appearances by travelled to Bequia for the weekend to silky smooth vocalist Philip ScantleThis year’s event kicked off ThursMusic Fest gold sponsor the Bequia join local Bequians in anticipabury, and Music Fest favourite, Toby Beach Hotel in Friendship tion of a fabulous weekend of Armstrong, who won ever more fans provided the perfect venue Joseph Callender, Kweku Jelani, Marius Charlemagne and entertainment. with his extraordinary guitar skills. on Saturday afternoon for a Toby Armstrong from Nj30 + rocking De Reef. Indeed, the 2014 Then it was the turn of Cover relaxing Jam by the Bequia Music Fest did Drive. The young Bajan band gave a beach. There were not disappoint, with great performance, with the sexy impromptu perforpatrons universally vocalist Amanda Reifer mesmerizing mances by a wide agreeing the three-day the patrons with hit song “Explode”, group of local event was the “best ever”, and setting the stage for the memoraand visiting starting with sweet pan ble finale, the last act of the night – musicians, music on Thursday night, Bajan Band of the Year Soka Kartel. including fantastic Blues on Friday The house went wild with their Colin Peters, night with the “Mustique electrifying performance, led by Andy Honky Tonics Blues Fest on Bequia”, “Blood” Armstrong, the 2013 Sweet Louis O’Neil followed by the open air Soca Monarch Champion of Barbados. and Jan Jam session with local and Blood and Mikey Mercer’s “Roll it” Smith, trumvisiting artistes on Saturand “Ah Cant Wait” mashed up De peter Jim day afternoon. Saturday Reef, as patrons put their hands up Coleman, Bob night saw the high and partied the night away with soca Berlinghof and voltage performances by to a fever pitch till after almost 3am. Dave “Wry Marius Charlemagne and Sunday afternoon at De Reef in Worry” on NJ30+, Cover Drive and Lower Bay saw a varied crowd of guitar, Ken Soka Kartel, topping off tourists, yachtsmen, Bequia residents Haltenhoff on the weekend on Sunday and visitors from the mainland enjoy bass, drummer with the famous calypsos of Scott Mills, the one and only Becket! Robert “Patches” Right: Ecstatic crowds at De Reef
Amanda Reifer, lead vocalist with Cover Drive
the closing day with great performances by the Kids on Pan Steel Orchestra, The Country Relatives, The Bequia Blues Band, Denzil Bacchus Blues Band from St. Vincent, and an electrifying jam session which included Marius Charlemagne, Jim Coleman, Joseph Callender, Kweku Jelani and former Exodus guitarist Richard.
Saving the best for last Uthan and Carleen Mc Intosh’s committee members and volunteers Bequia band Infinity, and lead vocalwho worked so hard to ensure a well ist Juvell Leonard set the stage for the executed weekend for patrons, musiheadliner on Sunday, probably the cians and all involved,’” said Director most anticipated performer of the Sabrina Mitchell. weekend. As the sun went down, De Need we say more? (Contributed) Reef was packed to capacity, as BECKET took to the stage with his famous hits like “Teaser”, “Small Pin” and “Nanny”. After 18 years of absence from Bequia, Becket’s performance was legendary! He had the crowd swinging, and left them wanting more. The visiting musicians were quick to offer their appreciation for the overall smooth running of the event, the hospitality - starting with the reception at Arnos Vale airport by a representative of the SVG Tourism Authority - and the unique, relaxed and intimate atmosphere in Bequia, for which the Bequia Music Fest is famous. “I am very satisfied with the event this year, the quality of the music and the incredible co-operation of all “Queen of the Blues” Shemekia Copeland
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18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
News
Grand Bonhomme: A gentleman to be respected.
Mission accomplished. On the The lone female climber braved the summit where a portable repeater challenges equal to her male was activated. counterparts. small section of the to the summit of Grand trail must be climbed on all Bonhomme at 3330 feet, fours and in another area, a include, Leon- J88NFJ, Leslierope has been affixed to a J88LE, Sally — J88NHM, tree to provide support for Mikhail — J88NGT, Albert — hikers on a steep section of J88CT, Donald — J88CD with the ridge ... a challenging our guide Clifford Williams. Veteran radio amateur, trail, but not insurmountable. J88AA- Martin, arranged for At the summit, a portable a guide from Richland Park, repeater was activated and who would take us to the worked as anticipated, while summit via a more direct others left their mark by tying trail, marked by forest rangers. Having a guide who a bandana on a makeshift flag pole. It is suggested that poles knows the terrain is always used as trig points be made important, as nature lovers from fiberglass or similar can easily be lured off trail material and painted, as trying to get closer to a rare galvanized pipes will rust plant or bird. On Friday, a twelve-person quickly in a high humidity environment. team, including one female, This hike is part of set up camp at the base of the anniversary celebrations of the towering mound (which is shrouded in clouds almost all Rainbow Radio League Inc. RRL which celebrated its 19th year round except for a few anniversary on January 22. Grand Bonhomme is covered in mist behind the highest peak clear days during our short shown here dry season), the plan being to The RRL was launched from the top of Mt. St. Andrews on set out at first light the Story & Photos by DON DE trail, as well as taking a longer following day. Our guide January 22, 1995. The RRL trail, a decision was made to RIGGS has a rich legacy of arrived at daybreak, and the abort that adventure until better two and a half hour trek to the ‘discovering’ the lesser known IT ALL BEGAN ABOUT ten years arrangements were made. parts of SVG, including Savan summit began, stopping ago when a few young radio Our dream to get to the Island, Chateaubelair Islet, occasionally to photograph a amateurs set out to climb Grand summit was realized on Balliceaux and Battowia, rare plant or for a water Bonhomme, the 3rd highest Saturday, January 25, 2014, Richmond Peak, Jennings break. mountain on St. Vincent, La when a group of seven made it mountains, Upper Falls of The hike to Grand to the top of Grand Soufriere being the highest Baleine, Kramakou river Bonhomme is not for the followed by Richmond Peak . On Bonhomme, and what a grand casual hiker or faint-hearted, valley and Petit Nevis, to that occasion, the climb to the experience it turned out! mention some of the and a walking stick for A week before, an advance summit started after midday, support over this steep terrain memorable areas visited. but with the absence of a guide party visited the area. Radio operators making it is of absolute importance. One and the prospect of a longer
Rubis assists in relief efforts LAST MONDAY, JANUARY 27, 2014 at Buccament Bay, Rubis-SVG donated twenty-one cylinders of cooking gas, along with heads and hoses, to affected residents. According to Rubis-SVG Account Executive and Rubis representatives (left), in the company of Country Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Representative Government Minister Maxwell Charles, hand Elroy Edwards, over a cylinder of gas to an affected Buccament donating the resident. cooking gas cylinders “was a seriously affected by the 2013 Rubis decision, for it is our social Christmas Eve floods, will be and corporate responsibility to receiving books, uniforms and assist in such times, and we have other relevant supplies to ensure seen a need, and have responded that they continue their schooling accordingly.” unimpeded. Rubis, though, will continue to Rubis is also pleased that it was work with NEMO to bring some able to collaborate with its relief to affected persons. competitor, SOL, in donating food Meanwhile, five secondary items to the Red Cross for onward school students, who were distribution to affected families.
LIME spreading the LOVE for Valentine’s!
LOVE IS IN THE air for customers of LIME, with the many deals available from the telecommunications provider for Valentine’s Day. One lucky LIME customer can win a brand new Samsung Galaxy S4 smart phone, by texting LOVE 6263. The promotion comes to an end on February 13th. Persons who would love to have new handsets for themselves or that special loved one, can also take advantage of the special deals, including up to 50% reduction on select handsets like the Alcatel 20.05 going for $99, the
Blackberry 9720 for $599, and the Blackberry Q5 for $999. Signing up for the postpaid plan will earn customers 200 ‘anywhere minutes,’ plus data, and free Sunday calls, for only $99 per month. LIME Sales and Marketing Lead Nikala Williams encouraged: “The key to a successful year is budgeting and maximizing on your dollar, so I encourage customers to take advantage of the best mobile, landline and broadband rates that are only available at LIME, so they can spend less and save more in 2014.”
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 19.
Opinion
The so-called ÂTurtle SanctuaryÊ in Bequia!
AS A MEMBER of the Vincentian Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the World Society for the Protection of Animals and the World Wildlife Fund, I’m compelled to reply to a well-written article on Bequia in the Dec 2013 issue of Compass. While the author/publisher of ‘Free Cruising Guides’ deserves commendation for his positive approach to our island, the praises of the so-called quite
inappropriately named ‘Tue Sanctuary’ are erroneous and misleading, and serve not the cause, i.e. the protection of an endangered species. On the contrary, visitors are deluded about the true nature of this commercialized enterprise. Having lived in Bequia since 1978, I’m familiar with the operator’s background, who once made a living as a
turtle harpooner, until, according to him, Divine intervention persuaded him to save rather than kill turtles. Having monitored the turtle enterprise since its inception, I’m in touch with visitors and drivers alike, the latter only unofficially disclosing their observations, in order to protect their business from the longest trip on the island.
Most of the yearly intake of hundreds of turtle hatchlings are not alive after a few months. The operator refuses to provide relevant Data: how many, from where, where released, etc. It is unknown what has become of thousands of turtles over the years. Some educated, concerned visitors have
written articles, inquiring why so many turtles have to be kept in captivity in overcrowded, fungus infested basins for so many years, something strongly opposed by scientists. Turtles need to Continued on Page 23.
V ÂMOTHER LOVEÊ – Stella Browne 1929 – 2014 20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Tribute
STELLA BROWNE, or ‘Mother Love’ as she was affectionately known, was born in Bequia in 1929, but spent all of her adult life on St. Vincent. She produced three sons, the eldest Ken, followed by Albert, then Seymour. The Good Lord called her home on January 04, 2014. Twenty-two of her most productive years were spent working in the house- keeping department of the Kingstown Medical College, a job so well done that she earned herself a trip to Grenada to join in the celebration of the College’s 25th anniversary, at which she also received an award as one of the longest serving members of staff. Stella was also an active member of the Roman Catholic Church and the Roman Catholic St. Patrick’s Society, whose members religiously don their green and white outfits to do duties during funeral services, especially for departed members. Two of her sons, Albert and Seymour, are radio aficionados or Ham radio operators, as they are called worldwide, and as a result, there was constant chatter of radio communications in that home, including a scanner which was on 24/7. Albert — J88CT, is also a co-founder and one of the Executive Directors of the Rainbow Radio League Inc., with responsibility for Public Relations. On two occasions, I received phone calls informing me that she had overheard ships in distress calling the Coast Guard and Signal Station, without a response. Upon receiving that information I would immediately call the Coast Guard base and notified them about the ships requiring assistance. ‘Mother Love’ was not
a radio operator, but she constantly monitored the scanner at her home,in which several frequencies used by radio amateurs and maritime and aeronautical services were programmed. This habit kept her up to date with road accidents, as well as maritime and aeronautical emergencies. Once her sons, two of whom are licensed radio operators, were not home or could not be reached by phone, the next persons she would call would be J88CD — Donald, or J88DT — Sylvester, or anyone who could help. She knew the procedure well. She subscribed to the adage: ‘Having lifesaving information and not sharing it with those who can help, is useless information (to that person)’. She was very fond of children, and whenever I visited her with my children, she set aside a little time to chat with them, one to one. With Albert as the control operator, she would occasionally chat with hams locally and regionally. She was a respected voice over the airwaves, though not a licensed operator. The RRL, which will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2015, was hoping to present ‘Mother Love’ with an award for her unheralded contribution to emergency communications. As fate would have it, she would now receive that honour posthumously. Her pleasant and jovial demeanor will be missed by all, but we rest assured that her present joy in the heavenly realms is beyond earthly description. We know her soul rests in peace. Excerpts from the funeral service held on January 10, 2014.
Contributed by: Donald De Riggs Director/Secretary RRL Inc.
Leisure
ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) Secret affairs will eventually backfire on you. You will meet new romantic partners through the company you keep. Self-improvement projects will payoff in more ways than one. Don’t count on getting any help from those you live with.
LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Plan a nice evening for two. This may not be the day to get involved in risky joint financial ventures. Be careful when dealing with female members of your family. Opportunities for romance will develop through activities with large groups.
TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) Sudden changes regarding your domestic scene are probable. Insincere gestures of friendliness are likely to occur. Only bite off what you can chew. A need to express yourself may come out in creative ways.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Travel should be on your mind. Problems with in-laws may cause friction in your personal relationship. You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move. Moneymaking opportunities will surface.
GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Your intellectual charm will win hearts and bring opportunities that you least expect. Catch up on your reading and correspondence. Trips should be your choice. Make plans to meet again in the near future.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) Family members may feel anxious if you make promises you don’t deliver. You will make new friends through physical activities. You can expect changes at your work place. Someone you live with may feel totally neglected.
CANCER (June 22-July 22) You will have to control the way you feel. Don’t be angry, but be on your guard. Try to do things with children that will enable you to bond closer to them. Spend some quality time with your lover.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will be confused about the intentions of someone you work with. Be diplomatic and honest, and that person will only be made to look bad. Don’t bother trying to make someone you live with see your point of view. Don’t depend on coworkers to help; they may only hold you back.
LEO (July 23-Aug 22) It might be best not to spend your money on luxuries this week. Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project. You will find that money could slip through your fingers. Do not let them blow situations out of proportion. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Some situations may be blown out of proportion. Calm down and take a step back. Keep your feet on the ground, if you can. Don’t overlook that fact that someone you care about may be hiding something.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You can enjoy entertainment if you join in and follow the crowd for a change. Enlist coworkers in order to get the job done on time. You can make changes to your living quarters, but not everyone will be pleased with your efforts. Focus your efforts on your work. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Don’t let someone try to bully you into doing things their way. Property purchases should be on your mind. You could come into extra cash. Help if you can, but more than likely it will be sufficient just to listen.
ACROSS 1.”Moonlight __” 4. __ good example (2 wds.) 8. Batter’s stat 11. Opp. of WNW 12. Pizzerias’ equipment 14. Taxing agency (abbr.) 15. Make unhappy 17. Slapstick missile 18. Charged atom 19. Saying 21. Three make a tbsp. 23. “It was __ dream” (2 wds.) 25. Make a cake 26. Sears’s partner 30. Broke a fast 31. Monkey’s cousin 33. __ Paulo, Brazil 34. Revise an article 36. Grounded jets (abbr.) 37. Walk tiredly 38. Ways to get there (abbr.) 39. Frat letter 42. __ race
43. Lodge 44. School lunch location 50. School gp. 51. Rain’s alternative 52. Ampersand’s meaning 53. Tippler 54. Young suffix 55. __ scientist DOWN 1.River floor 2. “__ was saying…” (2wds.) 3. “For sure!” 4. Sings alone 5. Uniform 6. Brewed beverage 7. Response (abbr.) 8. Kelly of morning TV 9. Ship’s jail 10. “__ skies of blue” (2 wds.) 13. Topping for a new driveway 16. Meerschaum 20. Small quantity 21. London art gallery 22. Slant 23. __ to the
teeth 24. Costello of comedy 25. Pub 27. “Back in the __” (Beatles) 28. Furry purrers 29. Boxing results (abbr.) 31. Light purple shades 32. DDE’s military arena 35. Dashboard abbr. 36. Building area
38. Library stamp 39. Drinks without slurping 40. Division direction 41. Tiny insect 42. Russo of “big Trouble”
LAST WEEK’s SOLUTION
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 21.
45. Impressed sounds 46. Healthy 47. Lamb’s father 48. “Message __ Bottle” (2 wds.) 49. Tack on
V In a tailspin 22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Advice
life is falling apart. I had plans of getting I AM VERY fed up with my married in a few months, life right now, and I do not and plans for my girls to know where else to turn. I migrate to the United have two teenage children States; but now, it is all gone to the dust. I have who are pregnant at the entertained thoughts of same time, and both of suicide several times, them could be pregnant and it is a wonder that I for the same uncle, I am am still here. Please not sure. They have both confessed that this Uncle help me, George. How can I get it back together has fooled around with without losing my mind? them twice before. I did not do anything about it Depressed because I did not believe it. Since that time, I have come to believe that they Dear Depressed, could have been telling It does happen like the truth. I am also with a man that sometimes, where problems seem to appear who could be messing all at once and from with drugs. I found different angles. Trying some drugs in his to handle it all at once pockets when I was can put you in a taildoing his laundry, and when I asked him about spin. It is important that you turn your it, he said that it does attention to handling one not belong to him and that the only reason why problem at a time. If you found drugs on he had it was that he your boyfriend, then forgot to give it back to there can be no denying his friend, who had that he is dabbling with asked him to hold it. the substance. It does I feel like my whole
Take the first step, man Dear George,
Dear George,
not really matter whether he is holding it for a friend or using it, you do not want to begin a family or build a relationship with someone who is quite ok with handling the substance without regard to your principles. This is not the time to listen to excuses as to where the drugs came from or where it is going. You need to decide whether or not you want to be with a man like that. If your daughters said they have been molested by their uncle, then you need to take the necessary legal action. It is very important that you send the message to your daughters that you are there to look out for their interests. Maybe it would be still possible for
the girls to migrate to the US, not now but at a later date. Get that information from the US immigration, so you can put a secondary plan in place. Taking your life will not solve the problems, and you need to seek help immediately. A counselor will be able to assist you in getting you to reorganize your thoughts and to work on a practical plan that would help you get back on track. I guess by now you know that those plans for marriage are definitely off the cards. Give yourself another chance to find someone who shares, the same principles as you, and who is totally drug free.
George
I HAVE a question. Does my wife have any right to tell me she is only giving me sex on weekends? She said this to me because she is saying that she is too busy with her work plus the housework to be thinking of sex, and I can always go take a cold shower if I cannot deal with my urges. We have argued over this every day since she made that pronouncement. She is pushing me to go seek my satisfaction somewhere else.
H.E. Dear H.E. A couple must never use their bodies as bargaining tools, neither should they deliberately withhold themselves, knowing that this would create friction and possibly a disintegration of the marriage. Your wife may in fact be frustrated that she is not getting enough help at home with the housework, and instead of fighting her on her decision, you can take a different approach. You can begin to pitch in and take care of whatever house chores that need attending to. Do not ask her which ones she needs you to do; that is something that you should already know. Tell her that you are aware that she is fully extended as far as work is concerned, and from now on, you are going to see to it that you do your fair share. Her reaction to this new approach could be the difference of what she does or does not do in the bedroom. Extra-marital affairs have never and will never solve problems that you may have in the marriage!
George
God bless you, George! Dear George,
people. God bless you, George!
SOMETIME last year, you advised me to get rid of my boyfriend because he will prevent me from achieving my goals in life. I did as you suggested, and now I am in University. Since that development, my exboyfriend got involved with another girl whom he left pregnant and stranded. He has also gotten into trouble with the law overseas, the last time I heard about him. I am so thankful to you for your advice, George, and keep up the good work because you are helping a lot of
Happy Dear Happy, Thank you for such kind words, and I am glad things have worked out for you. It is always good to pursue your educational goals. I am satisfied that you are on the right track, and feel free to write to me should you need further help. God’s blessings on you in all that you do.
George
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 23.
Opinion
The so-called ‘Turtle Sanctuary’ in Bequia!
From page 19 be ingrained during their walk to the sea in order to navigate back to the very beach on which they were born after as many as 20 years to lay their eggs. If that is not the case, they will perish. The operator, who is not scientifically trained and subsequently feeds the reptile sea creatures inappropriately, is hostile towards marine biologists and turtle experts who have voiced their concerns; anyone questioning is not treated kindly. Further, the operator is ignoring the existing law, which prohibits the taking and keeping of eggs, hutchlings and turtles in general. Unfortunately, so far, the law is not enforced. In a scientifically operated sanctuary, the relevant authorities, such as Fisheries, Environment and Tourism and the General Public, should be involved and kept informed.
years to come may be devastating if not catastrophic. Of course, most tourists believe in supporting a positive venture. Often they donate, in addition to the entrance fee, as they are asked to: “Help feed hungry turtle babies”. However, as visitors are more conscious about the environment, when seeing injured turtles snapping at each other - turtles are solitary - a growing number start questioning the merit of the operation. As it stands, the so-called Bequia “Turtle Sanctuary” doesn’t deserve its name, and should not be rewarded with promotion. There is no question that the protection of our wildlife is crucial, and the responsibility lies with every citizen as well as our authorities, travel writers especially, travel and marine magazines and tour operators, as their ‘educational’ impact can be substantial. If the turtle operation could be transformed into a properly managed, small scale ‘Marine Park’, How many taken in - how many released and preferably connected to the sea where? to guarantee regular supply of oxygen and the eradication of fungus, where a It’s been reported that dead turtles few turtles (not hundreds) but also a have been found on the seaside of the variety of other sea creatures are on place, not disposed of properly, an display, the educational effect would be unhygienic and unsightly practice. increased. Children, students, locals as When the operator appeared on well as tourists would be allowed SVGTV, he complained of lack a much wider understanding of our of financial support by the Government, marine environment. Plus, and accused local fishermen of “killing local businesses, including the operator too many turtles”. Ironically he didn’t and the drivers, would continue say how many turtles have perished in to benefit from a true ‘Tourism his compound over the years. The ones Highlight’, of which our next generation which survive are released much too could be proud. late, after 5 years (see his The operator’s gesture is being advertising billboard). According to recognized, but the involvement of experts, they will not survive either, the relevant authorities is strongly as they wouldn’t be able to sustain recommended, to evaluate the situation themselves, having never been at the turtle place and to extend the given the chance to feed on their innate necessary knowledge to manage such an diet such as jellyfish, sponge, etc. in a establishment, in order to protect not natural habitat! harm these magnificent Hawk Bill When considering the various Turtles. components, the effect on our indigenous turtle population in Concerned Environmentalist
24. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 25.
26. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 27.
Teams vote overwhelmingly to change first division format by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT FIRST DIVISION CLUBS/teams here will be meeting this Saturday, February 1st to fine tune plans toward a revamped First Division Cricket competition. The Affiliates decided on this meeting after they voted overwhelmingly, Kishore Shallow, architect of Triumph United change, delivering his proposal being the only at last Saturday’s AGM. dissenting vote 100 overs, with each among the 36 team batting fifty overs clubs/teams present in a time period of three represented, to change hours and twenty the format of that minutes per innings. The competition from a twoday contest to a one-day, lunch will last forty played over a stipulated minutes and will be taken at 1.20pm, with number of overs. resumption at 2pm. The proposal to The proposal also cited change the format of the age-old competition was that ‘normal one-day put forward at an AGM, rules with the exception of the Powerplay’ will be held at the Teachers applied, and said that ‘at Credit Union Board no time must there be Room last Saturday, by more than five players Assistant outside the fielding Secretary/Games circle’. Secretary of the SVG The points system Cricket Association, under this Option shows Kishore Shallow. that four points will be awarded for a win, and Option One two points each for a tie. Teams will be Shallow’s proposal awarded two points each offered two Options: for an abandoned or that the competition be cancelled match. played over a total of either 100 or 110 overs, Optrion Two during a six or seven hour time frame. Option Two calls for Option One proposed a all matches to commence format with play starting at 10am and comprising at 10am and to be
The lone dissenting vote from the representative (hand up) of Triumph United.
Teams voted overwhelmingly in favour of change. contested over a total of 110 overs. A total of 40 overs are expected to be bowled in the two hours and twenty minutes before the luncheon interval. In the period flanked by lunch and tea, comprising two hours and 30 minutes, a total of 35 overs are slated to be bowled. And after the tea period to close of play, a further 35 overs are to be bowled in the two hours and ten minutes remaining in the day’s play. Shallow’s Option Two proposal states that ‘in a game of a full 110 overs, the batting side must bat no more than 60 overs and the side batting second will receive a minimum 50 overs”. It went on to say that “in the event of bad weather, the overs will be reduced pro-rata”. In addition, the proposal is suggesting that, “no bowler may bowl more than 15 overs in an innings, which will not be reduced even if the match overs are reduced.” On the issue of the points system, the winning team will receive 25 points. Extra points will be awarded for teams declaring before their allotment of overs and getting a result. The rest of the points system will be
discussed at tomorrow’s meeting. “We are looking at changing the format because we believe that it may best serve the state of the game in that division…….we feel the time has come to put
back some interest in that division,” Shallow told delegates at Saturday’s meeting. Shallow does not see the reduction in days affecting the quality of the on field action, believing instead that
whichever format is accepted will enhance the ability of captains and the thought process of players. The 2014 national cricket season is scheduled to get going on Saturday February 8th.
Jordan shows early form
RAY JORDAN, VINCENTIAN selectee on the West Indies Under 19 team, put in a creditable performance in last Saturday’s warm-up match against the Combined Campuses and Colleges, played at the 3Ws Oval in Barbados. What was supposed to be a 50-over side match was reduced to a 25 overs per side; but even that was affected by rain, and the match was eventually decided on the Duckworth-Lewis method, with the West Indies youngsters coming out winners by seven wickets. Jordan, opening the bowling for the West Indies, picked up the first three wickets, to help reduce CCC to 25 for three. He finished with three for 23 off five overs. The CCC crumbled for 117 in 22.4 overs after losing the toss, with Kyle Corbin, the former CCC captain, top scoring with 47 off 42 balls, including four sixes and one four. Rain interrupted the West Indies Under 19’s innings after 11 overs, with the score 42 for two. Set a revised target of 86 off 20 overs, they duly won with nine balls remaining. The warm-up match was part of a one-week camp for the West Indies Under 19s as they prepare for the Under 19 World Cup in UAE (Dubai). The 15-member squad, led by offspinner Ramael Lewis of Jamaica, is under the guidance of longstanding
Ray Jordan impressed with an early burst of space and success. Head Coach Roddy Estwick, as they intensify their preparations at the Sagicor West Indies High Performance Centre. Estwick assured news personnel last Friday that, “We have to make the most of this camp here as we prepare for the World Cup. The boys know they have to work hard and look to tick all the boxes for what is a very prestigious event on the cricket calendar,” West Indies have been drawn alongside South Africa, Zimbabwe and Canada in Group C. Their opening preliminary match is against South Africa on Friday, February 14 at the Dubai International Stadium.
V SVG Cricket Association youth plan under fire 28. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
Sports
locally”, the executive report said. “The advent of the Grassroots programme, financed by the WICB, is an attempt to curb this rapid decline,” the report went on. Information shows that at a Strategic Planning Session (SPS), held at the Scouts headquarters on February 19th Stanley Hinds, former national and 2008, it was recommended regional cricketer and sports inter alia, that commentator, called for the Treasurer Rawle Caine, in an ‘coaches should be President’s resignation. unlikely move, was called upon to asked to identify give some details about the youth young cricketers The report which was development programme. who are doing well at schools done one year after the games’. country’s latest West Indies Youth team selectee Ray Jordan was An attempt to explain born, listed ways aimed On Saturday, the members at improving the quality of the executive appeared of Under 15 and Under 19 cricketers, with major disjointed and ill-prepared to answer questions on the emphasis placed on the former. ‘Additionally, major summer coaching seminars for Under 15 cricketers in the state will be held to examine new areas such as cricket development, A COLLECTIVE EFFORT leadership, group involving batsmen Romel dynamics, Caribbean Currency, all-rounder Liam history, sociology, sports Sebastien and left arm spin medicine and nutrition’, bowler Garey Mathurin, the Cricket Association propelled the Windward President Julian Jack appeared to promised. Islands to a 53-run win over a be standing on shaky ground, as he However, last Trinidad Eleven, in their struggled to address the Saturday, affiliates of second and final scheduled Executive’s plans and development the SVG Cricket practice match of their oneprogramme for youth cricket. Association were left week camp, before their bewildered as to what defense of their Super50 title. plans the body has for the Windward Islands won the by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT development of that sector of toss and batted, eventually the game. This after ALMOST TWO DECADES ago, a posting 225 for 8 from 45 presentation of its executive piece from the National Sports overs after a bad start, during report and subsequent Council’s Sports Annual at the which they lost opening discussions at the AGM time read: ‘The local Cricket batsmen Devon Smith and discussion fuelled by the fact Association admitted it was Johnson Charles cheaply. that the national Under 15 disappointed with the progress However, a 45-run second team ended at the bottom of of youth cricket during 1995, wicket partnership between the ladder in the Windwards but said it has set out to Tyrone Theophile, 45, and tournament -losing all their drastically improve the situation matches. Keddy Lesporis, 33, brought during the balance of the some level of respectability to Many felt that the report century’. the innings. After both failed to point to any According to the article, the meaningful plan for the batsmen fell, it was left to organisation’s executive report advancement of youth cricket, captain Liam Sebastien and stated: ‘Our ambition to infuse contenting itself instead by Romel Currency to stabilize more support into our youth the middle. Currency, back in identifying a near decade and cricket did not bear much fruit a half problem which the Windward Islands team during the reported period after several seasons absence continues to affect Under 15 (1995)’. while pursuing studies, Cricket. The report then went on to finished with a top score of 61. “The absence of a school say that ‘However, the Sebastien hit 51. Under 15 tournament for the Association’s five-year youth Fast bowler Daren past fourteen years has cricket plan has been singled greatly affected the quality of Cruickshank was Trinidad out for overall attention’. junior cricket produced Eleven’s best bowler with
programme, with President Julian Jack attempting to get General Secretary Samuel Holder, Committee Member Deighton Butler and then Treasurer Rawle Caine to give responses. In the end, it was Caine who gingerly took to the crease with the intention solely of playing bat and pad close together. This approach failed to combat the penetrative bowling of those seeking answers. Despite giving information on the programme, important details appeared vague and always short of a good length, and angling towards the unprotected legside. This as he attempted to name coaches conducting the programme, areas where these programmes were being conducted, and the number of students in each programme. Affiliates for the most part appeared perplexed and nonplussed at what can be described as Caine’s honest but superficial explanation of the programme.
Continuing fire
Three hours after the meeting, the Association’s apparent shortcomings at youth development came under fire from former national youth selector, Stanley Hinds, on his weekly radio programme. Hinds, who as part of a “Radcliffe Cabal” is purported in certain quarters as being responsible for the rise or demise of dozens of young cricketers, accused the Association of incompetence and lacking the commitment to move the sport forward. “They do not know what they are doing…..they are killing youth cricket…..I selected a group of 24 young cricketers from the Kiddy Cricket programme and sent the names to the Association, and nothing has been done…..they are wasting time,” Hinds shouted on national radio. He also called on President Jack, his former Radcliffe club mate, to resign.
Windwards show form in practice match
figures of 4 for 59. One wicket apiece went to Marlan Richards, Yannick Cariah and Ricky Jaipaul. In reply, Trinidad Eleven were reduced to 172 in 41.4 overs after an opening partnership of 78. Captain Justin Guillen led with 55, with support from Petrock Nicholas, 32, VikashMohan, 21, and Daron Cruickshank, a cameo 27. Garey Mathurin was the main destroyer, with figures of Romel Currency hit a top score of 61. 4 for 13 from 5 overs. He was supported by Dalton Polius, 3 for 18. Mervin Mathew, Alston Bobb and Creog Emmanuel took one wicket apiece. The Windward Islands were expected to face Jamaica in their opening encounter yesterday, Thursday, January 30th, at the Queen’s Park Oval. The Windward Islands are grouped with Guyana, Jamaica and Ireland. The other Zone will be contested by last year’s finalist CCC, host Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and the Leeward Islands. Garey Mathurin bagged 4 for 13 from 5 overs I.B.A.ALLEN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 29.
Sports
In for a penny EVEN WHEN the West Indies were world champions in cricket, the rules were always manipulated to frustrate them. Soon, it will be a matter of life that the cricket authorities in India, Australia and England will decide what happens with the game. The logic, according to the International Cricket Council boss, is that “we were more likely to make progress more quickly.” Had it been a non-sporting encounter, there could have been claims of communism, or dictatorship. Perhaps fascism or racism may have been applicable. But a combination of three contrasting entities must be viewed with some scepticism. Had it been England and Australia together, there might have been clamours of race. India’s inclusion varies the outlook. India, with its population, can bargain for any stakes. They have the chips to support their claim. In addition, they have the success on the field of play to justify their status. The West Indies Cricket Board has never displayed any willingness to be accountable. This scenario, incomplete so far, will continue to reverberate. There will be reactions, even though some persons will be drawn into projections on matters on which they are yet to be apprised. There have been suggestions for there to be a FIFA type body to run international cricket. That clamour is one of the most alarming to hear. As recent as the announcement of the FIFA World Cup to Russia and Qatar, there have been grumblings about the way FIFA is run. Persons in the Caribbean were led to believe that our interest was being looked after. We found out that things were not the way they seemed, until it came out in the cash. It is a pity that we have to rely on others to dictate our affairs. The stigma of colonialism seems to have penetrated our existence, and we are yet to control our destiny. We may wish to be independent, but while we have carved out our niche, we remain prone to the influence of other factors of dominance. We remain adept at adoption, and we choose the way that suits our survival. As a region, there are many factors on which we can claim division. While there are traits that unite us, Caribbean people delight in their individuality. We have not appreciated that inherent coincidence of our condensation. It depends on how things are going. The world continues to be an unfolding entity. We have to find our groove in the manifestation. We must be consistent in winning on the field of play in cricket. That will be our biggest chip. We can’t bargain for more unless we have reasons to negotiate. That is a problem that continues to plague us. We squandered an opportunity at political union over 50 years ago. The cricket team survived that downfall. Our people have the capacity to overcome insularity. We are demonstrating it day by day. But the administrators find ways of perpetuating the divide and rule. It suits some countries individually. Regrettably, there is the ‘Big Island/Small Island syndrome,’ without us recognising, that no matter how large we may look in the region, we are minute in any real city. That legacy of slavery and other workers has created a melting pot in the area. With that comes a sense of potential unity, easily balanced with that streak of self-destruction. This latest scenario on the world stage is highlighting our propensity at vacillation. Or some might suggest gravitation towards any port that can shelter us from a storm.
Moet Gaymes, SVG’s lone FIFA Referee.
These participants listen with rapt attention during one of the Course seessions.
Train hard, FIFA instructor urges local officials by E. GLENFORD PRESCOTT REFEREES and assistant referees who ignore opportunities to develop themselves must not be allowed to officiate in matches, under the auspices of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF). This was among comments made by Peter Prendergast, FIFA Referee Development Officer for the region, as he wound up what was described by participants as a five-day intensive and extensive FIFA MA ( Member Association) Refereeing Course. It ended last Sunday, January 26th at the Media Centre, the Arnos Vale Sports Complex. Reports say that twenty-two (22) officials, among them referees and assistant referees as well as prospective officials, attended the programme which served to develop the referees’ competence on the field of play, and to effect greater uniformity and higher standards of performance at the regional and international levels. The programme was conducted in collaboration with CONCACAF, and conducted under the FIFA sponsored Referees Assistance Programme (RAP).
Instructor’s advice During the five days, the participants covered the laws of the game, with special emphasis placed on guidelines for referees and assistant referees. In addition, a special component dealing with match analysis, fitness, field and practice training was also covered. “Referees have a responsibility for fitness and personal care, because when you travel, you are not only representing yourself but your country. There will be temptation and offers, and you will have to know what to accept and what not to,” Prendergast told THE VINCENTIAN, when asked about what advice he would like to pass on to young officials. With regard to what opportunities are available, he listed many, but was quick to point out that these will only come “if you work hard and effect your job competently. “You have an opportunity to travel the world, with little or no expense to yourself…..you meet people from different backgrounds and different cultures……you just have to be efficient at what you are doing, and that means never stop training, and making every effort to seek advice and information from those who have the knowledge and experience……you never stop learning,” said Prendergast who officiated in the 2002 Japan/ Korea FIFA World Cup Finals. In assessing the work of the participants, he expressed satisfaction, but indicated that there were areas that needed urgent work, and this must be done as soon as possible.
Local officials respond In addition to Prendergast, FIFA Fitness Instructor Costa Rican Allan Browne handled the fitness component, while local Technical Instructor, Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois assisted in the technical
Chief facilitator Peter Prendergast making a point at the closing.
area, with local referees Andrew Bramble and John Hinds assisting with such matters. Francois said he was happy with the turnout, but felt the participants need to show more commitment and better powers of concentration, if they wish to reach the other frontiers. “They must display a better attitude, show more application and show a hunger for knowledge…..they must realise that you cannot be laid back, and if you want to achieve your goals……officiating calls for hard work and plenty sacrifice if you want to reach the top,” he said. Francois said a follow up programme will be done with local facilitators within a three-month period to assess the progress made by the officials. SVG currently has three officials on the FIFA’s most recently released list. They are Moet Gaymes as referee, and the pair of Danroy Barker and Kevin Michael as assistant referees. Gaymes appreciated the programme, but indicated that it acted more as a refresher for him, more than providing new things. “I have to make full use of these opportunities to keep abreast of what’s taking place in this area….especially in the area of fitness……that may mean the difference between making it big or falling by the wayside,” he said. The officials will get an opportunity to showcase their knowledge base and competence level, at the national Inter-league competition, which gets going later this month.
30. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. THE VINCENTIAN
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THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2014. 31.
Classifieds
CARMEN LUCINDA LEWIS Apostolic Church Fancy Sunday 26th January, 2014 3:00 p.m.
FLEVIOUS MC GREGGOR DANIEL 22 February, 1939 - 16th January, 2014 Seventh-Day Adventist Church Evesham Sunday 26th January, 2014 Service at 3:00 p.m.
IDABELLE IDENA CHARLES
JEREMIAH DURHAM
Sunrise: 2nd April, 1948 Sunset: 16th January, 2014 Trinity Apostolic Church, Lower Questelles Sunday 26th January, 2014
Sunrise: 9th May 1928 - Sunset: 20th Jan, 2014 Church of Christ Kingstown Saturday 25th January, 2014 Service at 3:30 p.m.
JACINTHA RENA WILLIAMS
better known as Gelly
MAKEBA MARSHALL
August 1st, 1977 - January 15th, 2014 Colonarie Adventist Church Sunday 26th January, 2014 Service at 1:30 p.m.
Methodist Church Kingstown Friday 24th January, 2014 Service at 3:00 p.m.
F O R
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CONNELL AND THOMAS AGAIN!! by HAYDN HUGGINS DEFENCE LAWYER Grant Connell is wondering whether certain common courtesies, usually extended in the legal profession, elude some practitioners. Connell raised the issue at the Serious Offences Court on Tuesday as he expressed disappointment that he was not previously informed that Senator Jomo Thomas’s Chambers who, along with Connell, is representing separate clients jointly charged in a drug related matter, had requested Attorney Grant Connell was not informed of an adjournment. Jomo Thomas’ request for an adjournment. The matter was scheduled for Tuesday, but Chief Magistrate charges to which Smith Sonya Young informed Connell maintained his innocence. that Thomas’s chambers had The Chief Magistrate granted written to the court indicating that he would be out of state, and the prosecutor’s request for Smith to be sentenced at the conclusion requested an adjournment. of the trial involving Smith’s coHowever, Connell said accused, Lisa Hooper, who was Thomas’s letter was not carbon charged on four counts, to which copied to him. He indicated that she maintained her innocence. he came to court on Tuesday Thomas is representing Hooper prepared to proceed with the who is out on bail. matter. He noted that his client Connell asked that the had been in custody on remand adjournment be short, in light of for the last six months. the time his client had already “Clearly, certain common spent in custody. The matter was courtesies which are usually then set for next Monday, extended in this noble profession February 3. seemingly elude some Senator Thomas was part of a practitioners,” Connell said, delegation Prime Minister Dr. adding, “First I forgive, now it Ralph Gonsalves led to the second appears I have to teach.” Community of Latin American Connell’s client, Naton Smith, and Caribbean States (CELAC) 22, of England, pleaded guilty to meeting in Havana, Cuba, from three of five cocaine related January 27 — 29. charges when he returned to the The other members of the Serious Offences Court on delegation included Foreign Tuesday. Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the Affairs Minister Camillo court that the prosecution was not Gonsalves, Ambassador to Cuba Dexter Rose, head of the Agency proceeding with the other two
The Cumberland sub-station was overcome by debris washed down by the floods.
Electricity bills to go up by WILLIAM ‘KOJAH’ ANTHONY
Senator Jomo Thomas may have cause, once again, to apologise to his colleague. for Public Information (API) St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, and the P.M’s wife, Eloise Gonsalves. Thomas and Connell were involved in an exchange of words October last year. Thomas had called Connell a moron, while speaking to SVGTV. He was responding to Connell’s view that a matter involving the transfer of a St. Joseph’s Convent student, in which Thomas was retained by the child’s mother, should not have been taken to court. According to Connell, the matter should have been handled differently. Connell had told THE VINCENTIAN October 14 that Thomas apologized to him by phone within 24 hours of making the remark; but according to Connell, “I had already dismissed the issue.” The story was carried on the back page of THE VINCENTIAN October 18, 2013, headlined, ‘Put down the hatchets’.
Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines;
THE FLOODS which swept through parts of mainland St. Vincent as a result of the Christmas weather pattern, will increase the price of electricity to consumers. Towards easing the burden, Thornley Myers, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Vincent Electricity Services Ltd (VINLEC), encouraged persons Thornley to conserve electricity as much Myers, CEO of as they can. VINLEC, gave He pointed out that there was early warning damage to the tune of $10 of increased million to Hydro Plants at electricity bills. Cumberland, Richmond and South Rivers. A further $5 million will be required to put measures in place to avoid more disruption in the service. The Hydro Plants will be out of use for the next year. That will see a loss of $1.3 million a month to the nation. Given this situation, electricity to consumers on the mainland will be provided for some time by fuel (diesel) powered plants at Lowmans and Cane Hall. Myers noted that fuel prices went up in December, and he outlined though he alluded to the commodity’s prices usual rise in March. “Conserve as much as you can. Do what you can to keep the price down,” Myers advised. The VINLEC CEO used the opportunity of a press conference last week, to remind persons to buy energy efficient appliances when they are replacing damaged items. He praised his workers for their performance during the crisis, and also for their response to the rehabilitation efforts. He indicated that VINLEC workers were out within two hours after the rain stopped. Senior personnel joined work crews, and private service providers were awarded given contracts in the effort to restore electricity in the shortest possible time to affected areas. Myers also pointed to his company’s humanitarian venture by delivery tank-borne water to North Leeward residents.
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