FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 VOLUME 114, No.37 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

Tablets still to Eleven new IMF issue Shame on Work permits come candidates warning us denied Page 2 Page 3 Page 13 Page 14 Page 24

Chieftain Neptune New Democratic Party North Central Windward

Orando Brewster Unity Dr. Mineva Glasgow Kay Bacchus-Baptiste Laverne Gibson Curtis King Central Leeward New Democratic Party Unity Labour Party New Democratic Party South Leeward West St. George East St. George West St. George

Shevern John New Democratic Party Dominic Sutherland North Windward Israel Bruce Fitzgerald Bramble Carlos Williams Unity Labour Party New Democratic Party New Democratic Party Central Kingstown Unity Labour Party South Central Windward East Kingstown Northern Grenadines 2. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V News Tablets still to arrive

Government had identified sources of funding that would make it possible to purchase a tablet (computer) for each student enrolled in schools here. At the time of making the disclosure, the number of laptops to be purchased was put at 30,000. Gonsalves had said then that among the sources of funding were an unnamed Non-Government Organisation (NGO), the government of India and the World Bank. Readers will recall that Parliament in April, a month or so before Minister Gonsalves’ announcement as referenced, had approved a sum of money for the purchase of tablets for Grade Six and secondary school students. This was estimated to amount to 3,000 units and were to facilitate online lessons, especially for those students preparing for the CPEA and CSEC, which replaced face-to-face lessons that had been discontinued as a preventative measure against COVID-19. The situation, as highlighted by Minister Gonsalves, was that not all students were equipped Education Minister St. Clair Prince did little to with devises that would allow them access to online assure that the tablets would arrive anytime soon. learning, and therefore, government felt obligated to ensure that there was no “digital divide’ that would that the order is so large, there were issues sourcing place the better off households at an advantage. all from one place.” The uncertainty about when/if the tablets would Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves could do As far as the remaining tablets (computers) are concerned, this promise is still to materialize. arrive has aroused much disappointment among himself well if he clears the air on this issue, after both students and teachers, the latter already put exciting the expectations of so many. Schools re-opened here last Monday, and when the Minister of Education St. Clair Prince addressed off by the fact that the devices did not arrive before school re-opened, so that they could familiarise IN MAY OF THIS YEAR, FINANCE MINISTER Camillo the issue during a press conference this week, he themselves with them so as to be better able to Gonsalves told a media conference that the said that shipping was the problem, and “the fact guide the students in their use. V News 3 lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 3. Election battle lines drawn: ELEVEN NEW CANDIDATES

ELEVEN NEW CANDIDATES Windward. other new candidates, Democratic are included in the list of As it stands, there will their battles will be Party four thirty candidates that have be three new elected against incumbents as (1984, ‘89’ ’94 been declared by the two members of Parliament follows: Dr. Mineva and ’98); and major political parties, for when the votes are Glasgow (ULP -new) the Unity a general election counted — one each in against Nigel Stephenson Labour Party expected here before West St. George, Central - South Leeward; Carlos four (2001, 2020 end. Leeward and East Williams (ULP -new) ’05, ’10 and The incumbent Unity Kingstown. against Dr, Godwin ’15). Labour Party (ULP), Interestingly, the Friday — Northern Whichever aiming for a fifth West St. George Grenadines; Dominic of the two consecutive victory, will constituency will be the Sutherland (ULP new) major parties field five new candidates: only battleground that against St. Clair Leacock wins the Curtis King — West St. pits two new candidates - Central Kingstown; 2020 general George; Dr. Mineva against each other. Shevern John (NDP new) elections, Glasgow — South Newcomers Kay versus Montgomery that party Leeward; Orando Bacchus-Baptiste (NDP) Daniel - North will be the Brewster - Central and Curtis King (ULP) Windward; Israel Bruce first to have Leeward; Carlos will vie to replace the (NDP new) against won five Williams — Northern ULP’s Cecil Mc Kie, the Saboto Caesar — South general Grenadines; Dominic outgoing representative Central Windward; La elections Sutherland - Central for the constituency. Verne Gibson (NDP new) since the first Kingstown. ULP’s Orando versus Camillo election The New Democratic Brwester will face a Gonsalves — East St. under Adult Party, which has been in returning Benjamin George; Chieftan Suffrage in opposition since 2001, Exeter of the NDP in a Neptune (NDP new) 1951. has named six new runoff to see who will against Dr. Ralph Victory for candidates: Kay replace Sor Louis Straker Gonsalves - North the ULP will Bacchus-Baptiste — West in the Central Leeward Central Windward. put it in a St. George; Shevern John seat; and Fitzgerald St. Vincent and the special - North Windward; Israel Bramble (NDP) will face Grenadines has had nine category, i.e. Bruce — South Central a returning Luke Browne general elections since the first Windward; La Vern (ULP) to decide who will 1979, the year it became party to have Gibson — East St. replace the NDP’s independent of Great won not just another significant against the more tried George; Fitzgerald as the Britain. five but five consecutive change: Dr. Friday will and tested Dr. Ralph Bramble — East representative for East Of those elections, the general elections. go to the polls for the Gonsalves who will lead Kingstown; Chieftan Kingstown. St, Vincent Labour Party The 2020 general first time as Political the ULP for the fifth Neptune — North Central In the case of all the won one (1979); the New election also marks Leader of the NDP, consecutive time. Cummings: ‘Release Poverty Assessment Report’

Representative for West Kingstown, during this week’s Background Back where we began edition of the opposition New Democratic Party’s (NDP) Cummings, in fact, had According to Cummings, the programme ‘Monday Night raised the issue in the last Poverty Assessment Live’, streamed on Facebook. November 26, 2019 Meeting of conducted by the NDP in 1998 “There are angels who the House of Assembly, when suggested that the poverty deliver good information, so I he asked Minister of Finance level was 36 percent. say to you Prime Minister and Camillo Gonsalves to explain It went down to 30 percent the Minister of Finance, in why the Report, which was in 2008, he explained — but Parliament you ... and do not expected to be published in based on information want to release information March 2019, still not Cummings said he currently that you are ashamed of,” available. had at his disposal, the level Cummings said accusingly. In his response then, was back up to 36 percent. “It is damning…tell the Gonsalves indicated that the “And that was before this people what the Poverty overall status of the Report period of the COVISD-19 Assessment Report says before was that data collection and pandemic,” he quipped, I Daniel Cummings do,” he processing were not complete “So, if you know what good continued. in all sections, and there were for you Ralph, release the According to the one or two outstanding Poverty Assessment Report parliamentarian, he has been communities for the which was paid for by the asking the government for participatory poverty people of this country,” he some time now, to indicate assessment. implored. when the most recent Poverty He added that the analysis He said that he was giving Assessment Report would be and production of the full the government a chance to do released to the public. report as well as the it on their own, as they would The last such Report as processing of all components not like if he were to do it. Daniel Cummings, MP for “MAKE THE REPORT released in 2008. were expected to be completed “I want to be fair. I asked West Kingstown, literally PUBLIc — I dare you Ralph Cummings fingered the within a three-month period, twice…show the people the beseeched the Prime Minister Gonsalves — make the Poverty government for being fearful of following some outstanding report,” Cummings beckoned. to release the Poverty Assessment Report public.” releasing the Report this close fieldwork which was likely to (DD) Assessment Report before So beckoned Daniel to the upcoming General extend beyond the first the next election. Cummings Parliamentary Elections. quarter of 2020. 4. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Tributes E.B. John remembered by NELSON A. KING John was found dead at his home Canada, where he resided, when [email protected] said Bramble. he was found dead at his home in US CORRESPONDENT Bramble told THE VINCENTIAN Evesham, Marriaqua, on Aug. 19. on Monday that tributes will begin at John was a former general THE FUNERAL SERVICE for veteran Kingstown Methodist Church on Sept. manager of the National Vincentian broadcaster Evans Bernard 21, at 2:00pm, the funeral service will Broadcasting Corporation (705 ‘EB’ John is scheduled for Sept. 21, at follow at 3:00pm, and interment at the FM Radio) in St. Vincent and the the Kingstown Methodist Church, Kingstown Cemetery. Grenadines, from 1987 to 1997; according to his sister, Celia Bramble, a She said her younger brother was ex-Consul General of St. Vincent retired Registered Nurse in Brooklyn, visiting St. Vincent and the and the Grenadines to Canada; New York. Grenadines on vacation, from Toronto, and erstwhile Chief Liaison Officer for the sub-regional Organization of Eastern Tributes to Caribbean States (OECS) Farm Workers Program in Canada. “I am deeply saddened by Robertson – the passing of my brother,” Bramble said. “I am also comforted in knowing that he a stalwart lived a remarkable life — a life of love and kindness, a life of courage and compassion, a life of by HAYDN HUGGINS Corporation. humor and inspiration. “He taught me Sandra John, another elder PRIME MINISTER Dr. many things, and sister who lives in Trinidad and on we developed a Tobago, told THE VINCENTIAN Tuesday, during a good relationship. that “to the many persons that Special Sitting of the When he had knew and loved him, Evans High Court, recognized clients at the Bernard John, or E.B., as he was the outstanding lower end of the affectionately known, from Mar. contribution made by food chain, he Emery Robertson was the 13, 1951 to Aug.19, 2020, was so Evans Bernard John: 1951 – 2020 (Photo Emery Robertson, to the would send them recipient of glowing tributes by much more — diplomat, regional Courtesy: Celia Bramble) a number of his fellow lawyers. legal and political by me.” public servant, community arenas in St. Vincent Gonsalves that country, Sandra said. except in the heated activist, cultural ambassador, sports and the Grenadines. described Robertson as a enthusiast, calypsonian, mentor, After that assignment, she said Robertson, who (legal) battles in the “splendid” lawyer who, family man and friend,” Sandra said. John was appointed by the St. Lucia- served as a Senator and as a typical old school courtroom.” He pointed out that, At the time of his death, she said based OECS Secretariat as Liaison Attorney General from attorney, mastered Officer for the Seasonal Farm Workers 1984 to 1986, died on “In Emery, the Bar has her brother was working on his evidence and procedure Program for OECS farm workers on Thursday August 13th. both in criminal and a stalwart and worthy memoirs, “describing his effort as ‘an “I considered him my civil matters. He also person.” attempt to deal with the dash (-)’, Canadian farms. friend, even when we mastered the common President of the Bar connecting the date of his birth to the were on opposite sides of law. Association Rene date of his passing.” Other endeavours the fence,” Gonsalves The PM said he was Baptiste said that even said. shocked when he heard though Robertson was His work’s journey John had “a distinguished Gonsalves took the of Robertson’s death, as firm in his views, he paramilitary career,” according to sitting through they spoke only a few lacked arrogance and Sandra. Robertson’s life as a weeks ago, outside his was a very disciplined He joined the St. Vincent and the individual. Sandra said that John started his politician and lawyer. (Robertson) Law working life of public service in 1969 Grenadines Cadet Corps while a “From colonialism to Chambers. Attorney Kay student at the St. Vincent and the Bacchus-Baptiste would as a junior clerk at the Treasury internal self-government And according to Department, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Grammar School, rising to to independence, he always remember his Parnel Campbell Q.C, Grenadines. the rank of commandant, and was served at the highest Robertson would have warmth and willingness to share. After short stints in various subsequently appointed Aide de Camp level,” the Prime been next in line here (ADC) to the Head of State, Sir Rupert Minister said. Attorney Vynette departments, he ended up in the for the appointment of John, his uncle and St. Vincent and The Vincentian leader Queen’s Counsel, if the Frederick was reduced Public Relations/Information Service said he got to know rules governing that to tears as she recalled Department, “a move which would the Grenadines’ first Governor Robertson at the St. process had not the memorable moments ultimately define him,” Sandra said. General, and was later appointed Vincent Grammar changed. of the close relationship John, Sandra said, remained in the commandant of the Auxiliary Police School in the late 1950s. Campbell said that she and Robertson’s media-related field in St. Vincent and Force. “He was two or so years Robertson took objection daughter Samantha, the Grenadines for over two decades. Sandra said her brother was also ahead of me in school. to the new rules where also a lawyer, and In 1972, he joined the state-owned very active in community service, He was chronologically one now has to apply for President of the Human radio station, which became the especially so as a member the Lions highly intelligent and the position, and pay a Rights Association Club South, of which he became (HRA) enjoyed, as well National Broadcasting Corporation active in all pursuits, hefty fee, as opposed to (NBC) radio, as an announcer. NBC president and Zone Chairman of Lions and full of mischief like the old rules where the as the enjoyable Clubs in St. Vincent and the relationship between the was, at the time, the lone radio station myself,” the PM appointment was based in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Grenadines and Grenada. outlined. on recommendation. late Robertson and her At the time of John’s resignation in She said John was very active at But Gonsalves’ Robertson never applied, father Bayliss, an attorney, who couldn’t 1997, he was general manager of NBC, local cultural events, hosting many relationship with Campbell assured. editions of the annual Miss Carival Robertson developed Campbell, whose be there for the special Sandra said. Pageant. further when he relationship with sitting. After retiring from NBC, John was (Gonsalves) started his Robertson dated back to Glowing remarks also invited to be a part of an emerging Additionally, she said he was “a law practice here about their days at the St. came from attorneys radio station, WE FM, and later much-sought-after” MC at many four decades ago. His Vincent Grammar Dwane Daniel and Maia launched his own public relations cultural events, and was “a passionate first law chambers was School said, “Emery was Eustace. company. advocate for local music and located in the same a bright student. The presiding judges In 2001, John was appointed St. musicians.” building in which Throughout the days I were Justices Brian Vincent and the Grenadines’ Consul “Indeed, he fancied himself quite Cottle, Nicola Byer, Esco Robertson’s was housed have known him, he General in Canada, where one of his the calypsonian, having written and Henry and Angelica then. That building now remained a gentleman. I first initiatives was the launch of a performed ‘The Handbag’, essentially a houses the Housing and cannot remember him Teelucksign, as well as list of unlikely objects that could be Master Tamara Gill. programme, “Building Bridges”, among Land Development ever raising his voice various Vincentian organizations in found in a lady’s purse,” Sandra said. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 5. V Court Serial shoplifter jailed

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS Da Souza pleaded guilty to all The prosecutor then asked, “And three charges when he faced Chief to smoke too?” A 53-YEAR-OLD SION HILL man who Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Da Souza replied, “Yes, you could shoplifted several items from Serious Offences Court on Monday. say dat.” Gibson’s Building Supplies, The defendant, who had 22 He begged the court to put him Kingstown, on three occasions in previous convictions of a similar on a bond, but the Magistrate August, could not escape the CCTV nature, admitted to the court that sentenced him to five months in camera nor a five-month jail term. he was on drugs, and requested prison on each charge, to run Footage of Peter Da Souza counseling. concurrently. removing the items, placing them When Senior Prosecutor Within recent times, several in a book bag and leaving the Adolphus Delpeche asked what he persons have been caught store without paying, was recorded and led to DaSouza’s did with the items, Da Souza said, shoplifting on CCTV cameras in arrest. “I bought things to eat.” various stores in Kingstown. Da Souza was charged with entering Gibson’s Building Supplies on August 25 and stealing three bib taps valued at $85.80 and one Comb Container lock set valued at $58.20. He was also charged with entering that store on August 24 and stealing one Comb kitchen tap valued at $77.28, and entering the store on August 28 and Peter Da Souza had a number of previous stealing four saw blades convictions stacked against him. valued at $84.60. Youth remanded on gun related charges

NINETEEN YEAR OLD Rolando Cato were still allegations, the prosecution was remanded on Monday, after being was objecting to bail on the basis that denied bail on three gun related Cato may have a propensity for charges. offences of this nature. The Ratho Mill man has been Cato was not represented by a charged with possession of a firearm, lawyer. without licence, make and serial The Chief Magistrate upheld the number unknown, possession of one prosecutor’s objection, but informed round of .38 ammunition, without Cato that he can apply to the High licence, and discharging a loaded Court for bail consideration. firearm in a public place. The matter has been adjourned to The offences were reportedly October 12. committed at Redemption Sharpes on September 4. Cato pleaded not guilty to all three charges when he was taken before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the Serious Offences Court on Monday. When the issue of bail arose, Senior Prosecutor Adolphus Delpleche informed the court that Cato had two robbery charges pending, allegedly involving the use of a firearm. Delpleche added that while Rolando Cato – the latest to be charged for possession of these charges an unlincensed firearm and ammunition. 6. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN V 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: [email protected] Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines. Editorial Social media is abusing Of Political Heroes and Division TODAY’S POLITICAL CAMPAIGN IS, by and large, confined to social media platforms, thanks to COVID-19. (First published in THE VINCENTIAN of Friday relations with Because of that, supporters of all makes have the opportunity to 2nd September, 2016) Taiwan, rather than do as much ‘campaigning’ for their party as the candidates would mainland China, from in normal circumstances. LUZETTE WILL OF COURSE ignore the little which Taiwan had And as this ‘new campaign’ unfolds daily, we can see two fun poked at her ignorance of my birthplace in broken away, but still opposing mindsets emerging from this commotion: a minority last week’s column. I make amends by seriously mouth the concept of one China. that sees social media as a democratizing force that can be used to hailing Luzette as head of a four-some that is In 1982, the MNU of Ralph Gonsalves, in a transform the way we conduct our politics; and those (majority) blazing the path to a regeneration of our public document, assailed SVG for its relation who see it as an opportunity to sling looseness as though it was the depressed situation. Luzette King, Margaret with Taiwan. thing so to do. London, Patches Knights and Igal Adams, aided Ralph was then an orthodox communist when There will come the time when we will evaluate the extent to and abetted by the likes of Hamilton, are doing he formed part of the UPM in 1979. The body which social media would have been responsible for an election yeoman service in helping to restore SVG to its had first to proclaim a temporary compromise victory or defeat. pristine glory of being “Home of the Blessed”. position of “socialist orientation”. Without And don’t be fooled: there is enough evidence here in the This week, I was pleasantly moved by the allowing time to pan out, after our crushing Caribbean to support the view that very skilled persons have honouring by Coreas Hazells business place of defeat, Ralph called a meeting in which he manipulated these platforms, to win an election, but also to three national sports heroes, two of whom had suggested that we declare for immediate marginalize opposing opinions and even destabilize the election been selected by me on my piece on Bottom . That caused the break out of the process. Town, namely ‘Gunny’ Hinds and Guy Lowe. DFM-EF faction. All sides in our political milieu benefit from spreading Incidentally, their glowing contribution was By 1986, he had entered the by-election for falsehoods about their opponents, and in the process, undermine voiced by Mike Findlay, himself a sport icon of East Kingstown following Eddie Griffith’s death. trust in the mainstream media. superlative measure. A great honour was paid His first candidate of the MNU was Cyp Social media can certainly help to advance democracy and fair to me some years ago when Mike selected me, of Neehall, now editor of THE VINCENTIAN, who play in the political process, but it can also to be used for nefarious all persons, to present his citation on naming of indicated that he, rather than P.R of the NDP, purposes. In fact, using social media has become such an abuse of the stand at the Arnos Vale Sport complex after stood for the ideals of the dead Griffith. From privilege, that there is a growing impression that these platforms him. I thank Heaven that Mike had successfully that point, it was clear that without formal are increasingly becoming an enemy of democracy. resisted all pressures to enter partisan politics. recant, Ralph was all over the place without This follows on what seems to be an unencumbered pathway to Last Week’s article on Bottom Town had coherent philosophy, unless it was power- spread misinformation on social media. And it is worth noting been somewhat rushed. Although necessarily seeking at all costs. that it is easier to do this than to correct it. abbreviated owing to shortness of space, there It so happened in the international sphere, Far too often the repercussions would have already inflamed were some fatal omissions. I should have there was a confusion of ideologies as well, social divisions, not to mention political divisions, before we realise mentioned sporting heroes —George Hinds, Ali which Ralph may have reflected or even the extent of misinformation and nastiness that has been spread. Munro, Tweety Spence, and Barney Jacobs, a Yet, admittedly, social media facilitates the swift spread of anticipated. So when he took power in SVG in football/cricketer before their times. Also a 2001, it was easy for him to tighten the embrace information, allowing citizens to easily get around restrictions in boxing champion, Mike “Ragglins” Harry. mainstream media. Social media allows rapid communication and with Taiwan desperate for friends in its Touching the spirit of generosity, I could diplomatic battles with mainland China. offer activists new tools for organizing actions. The spread of social have pointed out the shop-keepers Roberts and media should strengthen our democracy and fair play, but does it? It follows that it became over-generous to St Aurin Seymour who played their radios It is difficult to simply repress the spread of information on print with regimes that it personally deliberately loud during cricket commentaries, social media, but it’s equally difficult to repress the spread of championed rather than with the people. But so that many persons too poor to own a radio disinformation. And yes, we have misused/abused the core feature the march of times was with China which grew of social media, i.e. the opportunity to spread information, to build could hear commentaries on international in every sense by leaps and bounds, and as a democracy and combat the enemies of truth. sports, particularly cricket. result, liberated internally with technology, A savvy person or looking to discredit online And there were characters aplenty in Rose showing a decidedly human face. critics doesn’t need to ban their speech. All they have to do, and Place, like Shorty Henry the dwarf-barber, So with the UN hooked on a one China policy we have seen much of this, is to respond with a deluge of false or “Tiger” Palmer, and above all Theodore “Dory” and all countries consulting their own interest, misleading information, making it very hard for ordinary citizens Culzac who danced around the park when SVG which is the paramount principle in to figure out what’s actually going on. played, carrying a fish and breadfruit aloft, international affairs, the opposition New accompanied by a crowd of Bottom Town Before you blink, the falsehoods may have already embedded Democratic Party decided to do business with persons singing to keep the spirits of our own themselves in the collective consciousness mainland China, if and when it forms team at play. Social media platforms by their nature allow politicians government. (through their sycophants) to marginalize opponents, consolidate That Bottom Town was not all poverty and squalor could be attested in the simple fact that It is as a result of cold and calculated their base, and exacerbate the social divisions that helped to lift reasoning that Arnhim Eustace and company them (politicians) up. the leading business place of Coreas had its four top executives living there: Messrs Newsome have decided to enter diplomatic relations with So much so, a politician’s use, or his/her guided use of social mainland China, regretful and thankful to media, falls into two basic types: normal use and abuse. Normal Duncan, Findlay, Ernest Gellizeau and Duncan “Darrow” Daisley. On the fringes atop Battery Taiwan for all she has done for SVG, as a use of social media is simply an online extension of typical country and not a particular regime. In these democratic campaign tactics: paying for ads, spreading your Hill lived Mr. Marshall of United Traders matters, the whole, not a part must be satisfied: message or uploading a campaign video to YouTube. Abuse Limited. There were residences around the Park involves the deliberate spread of false information, attempts to of Allan Gunn of Hazells and Stein Nanton. the head triumph over even the heart. undermine faith in established reality and thrives on harassment On this issue, the ULP seems to have and the spread of downright lies. CHINA OR TAIWAN forgotten, that in their books, there is no Normal use of social media can be equally helpful to all urgency, for they will be in power at least until politicians. But the negative use of social media, as seemingly The case is really simple, straightforward. 2021, and beyond if the NDP foolishly continues encouraged here, intrinsically advantages anti-democratic political We have been an independent country since to be led, or misled, by Arnhim Eustace. factions over their opponents. 1979. The immediate future contains some stinging Stop spreading misinformation. The Labour Party of the Day chose to have surprises. lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 7. V Views Elections here and there

MR. EDITOR, I had to get Rowley was returned in chance with something election. then we would have officially resign as its this one off my chest as Trinidad and Tobago, new as against what they The questions that I broken the recent trend. leader? soon as possible. and just last week, know they have? think are raised here are: I see where the leader Then again, he has You know that I am a Holness was returned in Our situation is very Is the record of the ULP of the opposition People’s said that this will be his man who follows Jamaica with a whacking much like the Jamaica good enough for them to National Party in last time at the pools, elections across the majority. situation. The last be voted back in this Jamaica has said that he but he might have said Caribbean. To date, we Now, Mr. Editor, I elections in Jamaica time with a clearer will resign as leader and that with the confidence have had, for this don’t mean to be coming (2016) and here (2015) majority of seats? And therefore as Leader of that he and his ULP purpose, four elections in over as being in support resulted in victory for the given what we know the the Opposition. would win again. the English-speaking on one party over the Jamaica Labour Party New Democratic Party is I wonder, Mr. Editor, Something for him to Caribbean and not one other, but shouldn’t we (JPL) and the Unity proposing (jobs, jobs and whether Dr. Ralph think about. has seen a defeat for the take note of what those Labour Party more jobs???), that they Gonsalves is prepared to incumbent. four elections might be (ULP)respectively, by one can unseat a party that make a promise that if Charles, Edinboro Skerrit was returned telling us? Is it that seat in each case. Mind has been in power since the ULP loses, he will in Dominica, Harris won Caribbean people are no you, the JLP took 2001? again in St. Kitts, longer prepared to take a another seat after a by- If the second obtains, Teachers’ action SCHOOL RE-OPENED and lives of our ULP has failed the this Monday. N0 matter children. This is no time what models we use as for prognostication by we proceed with face-to- the Union. face teaching, we do so God forbid, but I young people mindful of the fact that would never want to be we are very much still in in a situation where I WHEN I WAS the ULP a chance to Mental Home was filled the COVID-19 days. have to point my fingers GROWING UP, there prove themselves, and I with young people; there This, therefore, is no at teachers. They are was always some politics would look at their was a marked increase time to play around with members of a noble talk in my home. When performance and then in incest, sexual abuse our children’s welfare. profession, a vocation it didn’t come from my decide if I should vote at including child This is a time that and should not allow any parents, it came from my the next (2005) general molestation; deadly demands that all surmountable concerns two older siblings, who, election. crime went spiraling stakeholders must be of they might have, to i.e. siblings, represented The “Education upwards as it seems one mind as we commit prevent them from very opposing views as Revolution’ was to me gang warfare was taking to serve our children. fulfilling that noble to which party they very exciting since it hold; and there was One such stakeholder, profession/vocation in supported. All of this promised to keep young much talk of corruption a vital one we must the classroom — where it helped to influence me people in school, see that in high places and even agree, is the mass of matters most. when my time came to they were trained, build low offices, and even own selfish desires and teachers and their I thank all teachers vote for the first time in a cadre of qualified when certain public ambitions, and care Union. This is no time who will continue this 2001. To tell the truth, I young Vincentians, and servants were caught nothing about the people for the Union to be week to offer care and did not vote in 2001; find employment for with their hands in the in a real sense. threatening action — guidance to our children. there was for me, too them. However, as time cookie jar, many of them I have not at this time even though our There is a time for much ‘confusion’ in the progressed and ULP won were simply transferred been convinced that I Teachers Union everything under the air. again and again, I was and some even should go to the polls, president stopped short sun and the moon. This I was, though, not satisfied that they promoted. but for certain, I would of saying what teachers is not a time for your prepared to give Dr. had fulfilled their All of this, Mr. Editor, think twice about might have in mind. Union to be encouraging Gonsalves and the ULP promises to young has caused me to putting my vote where it To be raising any unnecessary action my quiet support in the people. In fact, I began rethink my decision to went in the last three concerns, at this point in would interfere with hope that maybe, they to feel and see that they vote as I did in 2005, elections. time that appear to me setting the classroom could turn things around had failed the young 2010 and 2015. It seems to have all been process back on course. for the young people people of SVG: that politicians are very A member of the ULP addressed, is to be especially. My position unemployment rose by much guided by their Generation playing games with the Janice M. was that I would give leaps and bounds; the The NDP still lagging

I HAVE ALWAYS FELT with a leader that could seems that there were ‘message’, though, raises that since the NDP could not excite them. The hardly any new faces, certain doubts as it not even reverse the leadership change came For sure, there were not comes in the midst of a election results in 2010 too late to disturb the many if any fresh, young, global pandemic during to 8-7 in their favour in apple cart so much so, bright and exciting faces which many have lost the 2015 election, i.e. by Dr. Friday has been in their team. The NDP jobs and income. The winning one more seat, burning the candle at must check to see to world economy and I then it would be a long both ends to sell himself what extent they have dare say ours, are far time before they could as a national leader. reached or are reaching from stable and will take see government. Now, as And the length of time the young people. quite an effort to restore we are, so to speak, on they took to fill their Also, the NDP to some normalcy. I the brink of another slate of candidate gave advances a message of wish the NDP well if general election, am not the impression that they being ready and able to they win and promise to encouraged that they can were not prepared. They create jobs. They have hold them to this. do it this time around. allowed the Election even suggested ways in And if I may, Mr. First to begin with, Petitions to sidetrack which they will approach Editor, leave a message the NDP failed to attract them and they forgot this objective. This is all for both parties: WE, the the electorate comprised about very fundamental well and good even if it is voters, are fed up of of a sizeable number of things like candidates. a message we have heard being fooled. WE are young voters, when they And when we learned before and I suppose, we smarter today. carried on for far too long who made up the slate, it will hear again. This Observer 8. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN V Views Excerpt from the 2020 Major fishing development for Budget Address on Tourism Central Leeward THE DEBATE LEADING UP to the general (Excerpts of Ben Exeter’s election in 2020 is not yet in full swing, presentation at a virtual Meeting) but already NDP candidates are dealing in a number of lies, especially as these relate nation. Tell them yes, because dreams to the economy and leadership. Today we TONIGHT, IS ABOUT THE of freedom and equality are what spur reproduce the closing debate on the 2020 EMPOWERMENT of our people. Tonight, revolutions. People of Central for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. budget, which outlines a number of facts is about how Dr Friday and the New Leeward, we say dare to dream. We about the state of the country’s economy, That path is bold and ambitious, Democratic Party (NDP) plan to building upon the strong foundation are about to have an empowerment and the general state of play in St.Vincent empower you, the people of St Vincent revolution. A revolution where our and the Grenadines. that we have built since 2001 and strengthened after batterings from and the Grenadines. We believe in people are given the support they policies that would teach a man to fish, Introduction external disasters — both natural and need to live their true potential. manmade. The limitations upon us are so that they could be fed for a lifetime. It is no longer good enough for St. Between 1763 and the late 1990s, the real but possibilities exist for the This is the philosophy of the NDP; one Vincent and the Grenadines to have a economy of Saint Vincent and the further enhancement of our sustainable which seeks to empower and uplift its catch-up plan. We can’t be looking to Grenadines had, as its cornerstone, the development. people. We are true to our motto of One The progressive 2020 Vision of this catch up to other neighbouring export of a single agricultural product. Nation, One People, One Vincy. islands. We need to surpass them. In Over the centuries, the export crop government is clear, coherent and comprehensive. We recognize that ours The NDP is not simply focused on 2107, fishing accounted for 24.52% of changed, from cotton to arrowroot to building concrete structures, but Grenada’s export; for St Vincent and sugar to bananas — and the exploitation is not the only developmental strategy, but we believe that it is the right one for rather to build communities and build the Grenadines, it was a mere 4.78%. of enslaved Africans was abolished, but lives. The NDP plans to build the the remaining basic modes of production our times, our country and our people. St Vincent and the Grenadines and economic structures remained in We reject austerity. We reject the crass lives of the people of Central Leeward imports twice the amount of fish than place. commercialisation of our citizenship, through the development of the blue we export. Meanwhile, Grenada The substantial transition from and the race to the bottom of passport economy. Our blue economy plan is exports twice as much as they import. subsidised monocrop agricultural export sales. We take note of, but not designed to exploit our more than 200 instruction from, institutions, indices Something is seriously wrong here. began in earnest 19 years ago, with the nautical-miles of fishing zone, and This must change. onset of the Education Revolution and and metrics that measure not progress, but our fealty to neoliberal orthodoxy. gives our fisher folk, women and Our food security depends on a the agricultural diversification around youth the kind of hand up that they robust fishing and agriculture policy. bananas to now include root crops, Our measures of development are people-centred, and rooted in Vincentian need to live to their full potential. Our We need bold innovative plans that livestock, poultry, fish, cocoa, and coffee. people are not lazy. Our people do not A corresponding infrastructural history and experience. We count the will see us leapfrog over other reinvention has included a jet airport in rising numbers of educated, employed want to wait around at the end of the nations. We have been there before. Canouan, the Rabbaca bridge, a and home-owning citizens. We tally the month to collect public assistance. We can do it again. This new bold proliferation of low- and middle-income dwindling numbers of poor, indigent and Our people need hope and a vision for us, is one in which hungry. We quantify investments to homes, the Modern Medical Diagnostic government that cares. They need technology is infused in every aspect Complex, the Windward and Leeward make us more resilient, improve our infrastructure, and diversify our support to get back on their feet. of our lives–from government to highways and the Argyle International Our blue economy plan will see the tourism, education, health care, Airport. economy. We weigh the ways that youth and women are empowered, and that expansion of our fishing industry farming and fishing. Let’s make Simultaneously, we grew our which will result in jobs and wealth economy, reduced inequality, improved elderly and vulnerable are supported. fishing and farming exciting for our our healthcare apparatuses, We celebrate business growth, and we creation for the people of Central young people, one where they could strengthened our social safety nets, and link sustainable use of our landscape, Leeward. We will also make apply modern technology to their slashed indigence, poverty and seascape, people and the instruments of substantial capital investment by craft, for ultimate productivity and undernourishment. Of course, our our sovereignty to the interest of our upgrading landing sites and the people’s humanisation. enhanced livelihood. progress has not been linear. We have fishing plant in Barrouallie. Further, Grenada, St Lucia, Barbados, and suffered setbacks and encountered The Naysayers we will utilize technology to aid in Turks and Caicos Islands have Fish obstacles, from natural disasters to the catch management where we will be Fry festivals. What about us? A Fish debilitating global economic and Of course, there will be dissenters able to understand the demand for Fry Festival in Central Leeward financial crisis. The developmental fish production and analyze the challenges that we face remain and detractors. Ours is a robust would help to make Barrouallie a numerous and formidable. But we are democracy. We will consider expected catch. By doing this, our tourism destination for international undaunted, and God is Good. constructive critiques and adopt good fisherfolk will be better positioned to guests, and attract locals from the ideas as our own, in the interest of participate in our tourism and export Windward side and provide much Vincentians better off national development. But there will markets in a meaningful way. also be rising cacophony of negativity needed economic spinoff. We can seize The worldwide estimated annual these opportunities for growth and The fact is that the average from the propagandists and opportunists who see every step forward sale value of fish is over US$140 empowerment. Central Leeward will Vincentian in 2020 is better educated, billion. We deserve a piece of that pie. experience a revitalized economy, better compensated, better protected, through the prism of their own narrow self interest. Those naysayers will Our people have the necessary skills higher levels of employment and and better equipped to access and take to be a part of this lucrative market. advantages of emerging opportunities in proclaim that Budget 2020 is wealth, and pride of its people. This our rapidly-changing world, than the unrealisable. They will critique serious And for those who do not have the might be a dream now, but it will only average Vincentian of the same age developmental proposals with the skills, our blue economy policy will remain a dream if this administration when we began our economic vacuous taunts of the primary school make available technical assistance, is permitted to remain in power. transformation two decades ago. Our yards. But we are comforted that they including training, scholarships and When the people of St. Vincent and economy is growing. Taxes are lower. are the same naysayers who said the exchange programmes to ensure that Argyle International Airport was the Grenadines stand up for equality, Wages are higher. There are record we are more efficient, more stand up for democracy and stand up numbers of Vincentians with a job. impossible; the Rabbaca Bridge was impossible; the Education Revolution productive, more competitive and for empowerment, then this dream School and hospital funding are at more successful. An NDP government record levels. Social safety nets are ever was impossible; and the Security shall be realized through your next more robust. And the Budget is Council was impossible. will provide much needed financial representative for Central Leeward, stronger. They will once again trot out their injection through low-interest loans Benjamin Exeter. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is clichéd pronouncements of pessimism. and grants, concessions, and People of Central Leeward, hard indisputably on the right track. We have Let them talk. We will work. They will incentives for our people to purchase workers of Central Leeward, single made real progress. Our country is be heard but not heeded. Their or lease vessels and power business mothers of Central Leeward, youth of stronger than it was in 2000 or 2010. negativity will be but a raindrop in the start-up which will result in Central Leeward, dream big, make a ocean of our optimism, ambition and But we know that the job is not done. expansion and rapid growth. difference. Our time has come. The task of development is never hope. Because we know that our country The NDP will build a fishing is heading in the right direction. We Change is on its way. From South complete, and it is ever more precarious industry that will enable our people to in the context of a Small Island know that we are blessed with Leeward, throughout Central Leeward Developing State on the frontlines of visionary, experienced and do more. We will build an industry to North Leeward, we hear the chant climate change, the neighbourhood of a compassionate leadership. where people are empowered to create for change. We hear the cry for hegemon, and the periphery of the And we know that we are home to an wealth for their families. We are change. I say to you that my NDP global economy, and quite vulnerable to enterprising, creative and hardworking promoting policies that are brothers, Roland Patel Matthews, the vicissitudes of a global political Vincentian people, who have always transformative and not transactional. Nigel, ‘Nature’ Stephenson and I hear disorder and a profound unfairness of faced challenges with resolve, with faith Central Leeward, they will come your cries. We feel your pain, and we in God, and with an unshakeable the globalised economy. saying that we are dreamers. Tell say that change is on its way. If you optimism that we can accelerate this them yes. Tell them that we are ULP: a clear vision going forward process of economic transformation for are over 18 years of age and you have the benefit of all. dreaming of a better St. Vincent and not registered to vote, I urge you to go Budget 2020 considers our history, Let us continue to build a better the Grenadines. We are dreaming of out and get registered and vote for the our triumphs and our challenges in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Let the day when St. Vincent and the NDP, so we can make St. Vincent and charting a transformative path forward us Lift SVG Higher…. Grenadines returns to a prosperous the Grenadines working again. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 9. V Views Active listening China and Taiwan

“Of all the skills of leadership, AS THE ELECTIONS draw near, the listening is the most valuable — and debate whether we should have one of the least understood. Most diplomatic relations with China or advantage to the government of PM captains of industry listen only seeking to fully understand and Taiwan will heat up. We take you back Gonsalves to press the government of sometimes, and they remain ordinary appreciate the point(s) being made. to our August 5, 2016 column which Taiwan for even more developmental leaders. But a few, the great ones, Refusing to listen can have very characterised the debate following the assistance. Gonsalves, the skilled never stop listening. That's how they serious consequences. History records NDP announcement that it will disavow politician that he is, should see an get word before anyone else of that the tragedy related to the sinking ties with Taiwan, and establish relations opportunity to press for more unseen problems and opportunities.” of the Titanic on 15th April 1912 with the People’s Republic of China as assistance. The leaders in Taiwan — Peter Nulty, Fortune Magazine could have been averted if the radio a ‘tempest in a teapot.’ may be hard-pressed to deny more operator onboard that ill-fated vessel, We argued then that tactically the assistance.’ MANY INDIVIDUALS judge leaders by Jack Phillips, was listening. We are announcement would have had more Mr. Eustace’s announcement broke their ability to talk, their charm, their told that Cyril Evans, the radio political impact had it come came the hegemony which the Taiwanese charisma, their ability to convey their operator on another ship, was before the last elections. With SVG held over our diplomacy in Asia. With vision and by how well they excite feverishly seeking to contact the crew reeling from difficult economic times, both parties pledging their allegiance, others to follow. While these are on the Titanic in order to alert them a compelling argument could have Taipei sat comfortably with the desirable leadership capabilities, the that they had encountered a most been made to the electorate to ‘try knowledge that no matter what ability to listen is considered most threatening ice field. However, something new’ with the hope that happened in our elections, relations Phillips was preoccupied with the People’s Republic of China, with were safe. Dr. Friday’s waffling on the valuable. The value of listening is all of its economic might, could have highlighted in the Peter Nulty quotation relaying passengers’ messages and issue has tightened Taiwan’s grip and rudely instructed Evans to be quiet. injected a much-needed stimulus with weakened our negotiating power. that was used to introduce this essay. offers of infrastructural, educational This is also echoed in Dr. Maya Frustrated and disappointed, Evans We see no benefit to the NDP or hesitantly turned off his radio and and other forms of assistance. SVG in the change of position, and Angelou’s useful observation that In a recent interview on Boom FM, people may forget what we said or what turned in to bed. Shortly thereafter, hope that the opposition party’s the Titanic struck an iceberg. This Party Leader Dr Godwin Friday decision to downplay the switch is we did, but they will never forget how we backed away from the proposed made them feel. Those feelings that she unexpected disaster, occurred four purely tactical. days on the Titanic’s maiden voyage switch in relations from Taipei to All parties must now think just a refers to are often linked to the times Beijing, as was proposed by Arnhim when we demonstrated empathy and from Southampton in England to New little harder about the pros and cons York in the USA. The tragedy Eustace. This development is of these relations. This must be a made the time to listen. This is unfortunate because SVG could do considered especially important when resulted in the deaths of good thing, especially for those of us approximately 1,500 passengers and with an injection of developmental in SVG whose thought patterns on so we are required to listen to individuals assistance which the Taiwanese who are hurting or otherwise crew members. Numerous analysts many matters are staggeringly have provided a host of other refuse to offer. ossified. traumatised. The story of relationships with contributing factors to the sinking of This sad state of affairs is reflected We (I include myself) periodically Taiwan has its roots in cold war find ourselves engaged in this great vessel. However, the in the politicization of all things and politics. The communist revolution of the ways in which people line up conversations where we are hearing Phillips’ inability or disinterest in 1949 in China chased the nationalist what is being said but not necessarily listening must be factored in to the based on which party they support. forces off the mainland to Taiwan. Gonsalves must be worried by the listening. Sometimes this may be due demise and destruction of what was The USA and other western countries to the fact that we may not be then the world’s largest and most deep levels of anti-communist immediately embraced the nonsense spewed by many of his interested in what is being discussed. luxurious vessel. nationalists, and used it as a Occasionally, it may be the result of Relationships in our homes, spokesmen and women in their capitalist showcase against what was response to the NDP decision. The our having more pressing things to schools, workplaces, and churches can then sold as the failures of anti-communism reared its ugly head do. On other occasions, we may be be so much richer and more in the Soviet Union and China. productive if/when we make the time again when the coronavirus emerged juggling tasks or multi-tasking and The Labour Party of , earlier in the year. therefore paying scant attention to to listen to what others are saying or as well as most of the developing needing to say - listening with the Similarly, many progressives were what is being voiced. Morgan Scott world, followed the cold war mantra equally sickened that some of the Peck (1936-2005), the American aim of understanding the points that of the West, recognized Taiwan and they are seeking to share. We can all most backwards, reactionary and psychiatrist and author of the best- established diplomatic relations. anti-communist elements, at the toss selling book “The Road Less Traveled” benefit from the useful insights and Taiwan was projected as the sole wisdom that can be generated when of a coin, jumped on the Beijing reminds us that ,“You cannot truly legitimate representative of the bandwagon. Only yesterday they were listen to anyone and do anything else we pause to provide listening ears. Chinese people even though most Active listening will enhance our loudest in denouncing Gonsalves and at the same time.” We are too often Chinese lived on the Mainland. the People’s Republic of China as guilty of seeking to do other things understanding of others and, in so All of this began to unravel after doing, generate a greater appreciation communist, notorious for economic while “listening” to others. Deborah the secret visit of Henry Kissinger, failure and wrecking economies. With Tanner, who is an author and of the thoughts that they convey. Our the US Secretary of State, to Beijing listening can have a calming or the proposed shift by the NDP from professor of linguistics at Georgetown in 1971. The USA established Taipei to Beijing, China’s economic University, USA, reminds us that, “To sobering impact on them and, in so relations with China, broke relations doing, generate lots of joy in our lives. might and the supposed benefits that say that a person feels listened to with Taiwan and the dollar diplomacy might flow were shamelessly touted. We feel good knowing that we have means a lot more than just their ideas started in earnest. Both Taipei and Plain Talk had always maintained get heard. It's a sign of respect. It contributed to the good in others. Beijing began aiding countries that that the assistance our country makes people feel valued.” We value Leaders, managers, teachers, will align with either side. received from Taiwan was much too others when we dedicate the time and parents, pastors, consultants, Currently, the People’s Republic of low, bearing in mind that our county, exert the effort to listen to them. members of the medical profession, China has the diplomatic support of for decades, remained a most Bernard Mannes Baruch (1870- and therapists can all benefit from most of the independent nations in dependable and stalwart supporter of 1965) was an American financier, improved listening skills. We can also the world. Taiwan is recognized by Taipei. As a matter of principle, we stock investor, philanthropist, add our professions and names to this only 14 of the 193 nations at the UN, have always advocated the statesman, and political consultant. list of beneficiaries. But it takes with Belize, Haiti, St Kitts, St Lucia establishment of relationship with the Following his success in business, he discipline as we slow ourselves down and SVG among them. People’s Republic of China. devoted his time as an economic to fully concentrate on and appreciate Taiwan and China are increasingly This was not an anti-Taiwan advisor to U.S. Presidents Woodrow the thoughts that others seek to share drawing closer. In fact, 40 percent of position. The argument was grounded Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt. with us. This is especially so when the foreign investment in China is in the fact that Beijing represents He is recorded as having said, "Most individuals may be expressing views believed to have an origin in Taiwan. most Chinese people, was sensibly of the successful people I've known that are different to our own. This The pro-independence government of recognized by most independent are the ones who do more listening calls for patience. This demands President Tsai Ing-Wen continues to nations and was the second-largest than talking." We can all benefit from empathy. However, in the end, we press the independence claim, but economic power in the world. enhancing our listening skills in our discover that blending their insights leaders in Beijing have maintained We have entered a new period in homes, schools, and workplaces. Dr. with our own can significantly that they will never allow such a our conversation about our Stephen Covey (1932-2012), the improve the tapestry of our thoughts move. relationships with Taiwan and American educator, motivational — creating useful visions for problem China continues its diplomatic hopefully the rest of the world. The speaker, and author of the best-selling solving and creating a platform for offensive to win new friends and to world is too complex a place for knee book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective innovation and self-improvement. We further isolate Taiwan. Certainly, if jerk, emotional responses. Statecraft People”, reminds us of the need to all become wiser and better when we this effort succeeds, the talk of demands much more. Plain Talk has engage in listening with the intention embrace the challenge to explore the independence in Taipei will certainly confidence in a forward-looking, recede. of understanding the other person(s) possibilities of broadening our active developing SVG. The critical question listening skills. Four years ago, we argued that the is; Are we are ready for the task? conversing. He noted that we too NDP decision to recognize the often listen with the intention of Send comments, criticisms & People’s Republic of China may be a Send comments, criticisms & providing our insights in relation to blessing in disguise to our the topic being discussed rather than suggestions to suggestions to [email protected] [email protected] government. ‘It may offer a unique 10. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Views ULP and NDP

maintain university graduate in than it both Accounts and makes. It Finance. regimes - dreamers drains SVG needs a Green money from government. As SVG WHEN IT COMES TO SVG’S financial incompetence of disrepair. This airport has dreamers. our country Minister of Finance, public finances, both the the NDP regime cost millions to maintain For decades, the ULP as airlines have to be paid Warrant Officer Ivan ULP and NDP regimes have dreamers. and will need many regime has pumped tens to fly to SVG. Bertie O’Neal, BSc shown that they are In 1993, millions of millions more to make it of millions of dollars into These 3 examples alone (Hons), MSc, MBA, would irresponsible and a bunch dollars were wasted by operational. LIAT and there has been clearly illustrate the ULP abolish the Mustique Act of dreamers. Both the ULP the NDP regime on the In 1999, the NDP no net return. LIAT has regime’s financial 2002, cut ties with and NDP regimes have a Ottley Hall Marina and regime wasted tens of now gone bust and incompetence, lack of due Taiwan and take back our history of throwing away Shipyard. This was a millions of dollars millions of dollars of diligence and why they fish licence. He would millions of dollars of failed development project building the cruise ship taxpayers’ money have cannot be trusted with open ties with China and taxpayers’ money on by the NDP regime that terminal. The income been lost by the ULP SVG’s public finances. adopt structural change, projects that fail to produce turned out to be a from this project is regime. Both the ULP and using high quality a net return on the money financial fiasco, and left peanuts and does not In 2012, the ULP NDP regimes are not education and our own invested. our country with a debt of cover its running and regime wasted tens of prudent with SVG’s science and technology This waste of SVG’s hundreds of millions of maintenance costs. millions of dollars public finances. They tend university as the engine public finances has had dollars. These 3 examples alone building the Belle Isle to run recklessly head- for the creation of catastrophic consequences Also in 1993, we saw clearly illustrate the NDP jail, rather than investing first into wasting millions thousands of new jobs and for our country. We have the NDP regime waste regime’s financial the money into a science of dollars of taxpayers’ revenue, and focus on had decades of high rates millions of dollars incompetence, lack of due and technology university money on useless projects, expanding the SVG yearly of unemployment, poverty building the Bequia diligence and why they for our children. A jail, without doing a proper budget to $4 billion. and crime. The ULP and airport. This airport has cannot be trusted with like the one at Belle Isle, cost-benefit analysis to According to Warrant NDP regimes cannot be failed to bring in a net SVG’s public finances. could never and has never ascertain whether the Officer Ivan Bertie trusted with taxpayers’ income and now lies Let’s look now at the been an income earner for project will lead to a O’Neal, BSc (Hons), MSc, money. unused and in an financial incompetence of our country. sustainable net income for MBA, both the ULP and Let’s look first at the appalling state of the ULP regime In 2017, the Argyle our country. NDP regimes are a bunch airport was commissioned We cannot afford to of dreamers and and, not surprisingly, this have financially- financially reckless. They has turned out to be a incompetent dreamers in cannot be trusted with White Elephant. Even charge of SVG’s public SVG taxpayers’ money. A before COVID-19, the finances. SVG needs a Green government would airport did not bring a net change of government and create prosperity, revenue income into our country a Vincentian Minister of and thousands of new and costs more to run and Finance who is a jobs. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 11. V Education FOSH scholarship Prince lashes out at ISPs awarded ONE WEEK after Oswald Robinson, President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines KACI-ANN PRIMUS is the Primus is the Teachers Union, called out recipient of the 2020 Friends of sixth recipient of local telecommunications Sion Hill Inc. (FOSH) Scholarship the FOSH Inc. companies for poor internet award. Scholarship service, this country’s She will receive $800 Programme, Education Minister has annually for the next five years which was followed suit. of her secondary schooling. started in 2017. St Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince took The 12-year-old, a resident of Fitzpatrick a turn on the two primary Education Minister St. Sion Hill, is a former student of explained that Internet Service providers Clair Prince has joined the Kingstown Preparatory while the (ISPs), saying that the in the ‘calling out of’ School. organisation was Ministry of Education has Internet Service She was successful at this able in 2017 and been involved in discussions Providers (ISPs) here. on the issue of poor service. year’s sitting of the Caribbean 2019 to offer two “I don’t know the extent to Primary Exit Assessment scholarships, it which they have responded, but there is no shortage of (CPEA), and gained enrollment was unable to do negotiation and cajoling and pushing with respect to at the Girls’ High School. so this year that,” Prince said. According to President of the because the He continued, saying that it was his opinion that the FOSH SVG Inc. Clyde parent body, providers operating here did not consider the Caribbean Fitzpatrick, Primus best fitted Friends of Sion as an important part of the market. the criteria, as she is also a Hill USA, was “But we have to continue to talk to them until we get member of the Junior Band of unable to host its the kind of service that is required,” he said. the Sion Hill Euphonium Steel usual fund Robinson said, during a press briefing on Sept. 1, that Orchestra. raising events, there were IT laboratories throughout the country but no Fitzpatrick noted that whilst because of the or poor internet service. awarding the annual threats of the Kaci- ann Primus (left) “What are the suppliers doing?” Robinson questioned. scholarships, “We also want to COVID-19 pandemic. He said that the poor service from the ISPs were to be build community leaders - FOSH SVG Inc. was receiving her scholarship award from Jacqueline blamed for the inability of some teachers to reach persons who are involved within established in 2017, as the local students who were forced to stay at home, following the the Sion Hill community.” chapter of FOSH USA. Browne – Secretary of FOSH SVG Inc. outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. 12. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V News A new Reorganisation Plan for LIAT

As the future of what was once LIAT is being crafted, a number of airlines have moved in to fill the void created by LIAT’s cessation. IF WHAT THE CMC REPORTED IS WHAT will be asked to take a cut up to 100 not the directors, or shareholders. While Prime Minister Dr. Ralph was proposed, then the government of per cent in some instances, but on The Administrator, Cleveland Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Antigua and Barbuda is prepared to average about 50 per cent. The staff Seaforth, is tasked with the Grenadines gave indication that he underwrite up to 50% of the required we expect, a 50 per cent reduction in responsibility of reorganizing the was prepared to write off more than capiltalisation for a reorganised LIAT. the staff liabilities because if they go company — LIAT (1974) Ltd., by C$14 million owing to his government, The CMC said late last week that it to liquidation they will be lucky to get cutting liabilities and realigning Browne said Gonsalves has not had obtained a copy of the new 10 per cent,” he added. expenses. The administrator would confirmed that by way of a formal reorganisational plan and that Already, the Barbados and St have full powers to negotiate terms response. Antigua and Barbuda is proposing to Vincent and the Grenadines with creditors, including agreement to Neither, he said, has the other two re-investment of EC$180 million. governments, former shareholders in reduce sums payable. (former) major shareholders — The remaining $50% is expected to the airline, had in July agreed to sell He promised a report within 120 Barbados and Dominica — replied be shared by other private and public their shares, to accommodate the new days of his appointment. formally. sector entities, including existing reorganisational plan outlined by Browne, however, said that he was shareholder governments. Antigua and Barbuda. Dominica is the Debt write-off “pretty sure” that Prime Minister And according to CMC, Antigua and other major shareholder government. Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica will be Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston As it stands now, the Administrator, Meanwhile. Antigua News Room writing off the arrears. Browne said in an interview with that appointed in late July, is the sole reported PM Browne as saying earlier As it stands, LIAT has more than news agency, that the reorganised representative of what remains as the this week that there has been no $300 million in liabilities and the LIAT (I974) limited would be different LIAT estate. All decisions involving formal response to a request that assets, which are primarily travel from a restructured entity. the affairs of LIAT would be taken governments write-off LIAT debts to assets, are estimated to yield a mere “In a reorganised LIAT, creditors exclusively by the administrator and them. $20 million. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 13. V News IMF issues warning regarding the new port

THEY MAY HAVE AGREED that the project is a Actual construction was originally scheduled to necessity, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is commence in 2020, but this has been postponed to warning that it could put a strain on public finances. 2021. Construction is expected to be complete by “The cost of building a new port, however, is quite 2024. large for a small economy like St. Vincent and the The Kingstown Port Expansion and Grenadines, amounting to nearly 21% of GDP. The Modernisation Project has already received new port will boost construction demand but also commitments of funding as follows: a US$110 put heavy pressure on public finances,” the IMF said million loan from the Caribbean Development in a May 2020 report. Bank (CDB); approximately US$32 million from The report continued: “The main growth channel the CDB-administered United Kingdom is through the employment of unskilled labour, and Infrastructure Fund; and a $US43 million input by the impact from capital inputs is limited as these the Government of St. Vincent and the will mostly be imported. The long term growth Grenadines. impact of the port would hinge on the authorities’ For its part, the CDB is on record as saying that effort to strengthen St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ investment in port modernization in St. Vincent competitiveness, and foster private sector activity.” and the Grenadines will boost the efficiency of The IMF report also cited that “In the absence of cargo service, revitalize Kingstown, and enhance this investment (private sector), should there be the business environment while expanding Port Kingstown as it is today, has been assessed as being inadequate to serve SVG’s expanding structural failure at the existing port, significant employment opportunities and reduce poverty. commerce and trade. negative economic impacts would ensue.” The project, a significant module of the Government’s vision, which will result in the modernization and VINLEC installing LED streetlights expansion of Port Kingstown, is already taking shape, with VINLEC IS CURRENTLY ENGAGED penetration of renewable energy government having identified an area in a project that will see the generation, and reduce the harmful — Lowmans Leeward - for the installation of Light-emitting diode impact of the burning of fossil fuel construction of 47 housing units to (LED) streetlights, as a replacement for the production of electricity. cater to those families, who will be for the High pressure sodium (HPS) In 2017, the Government of SVG, displaced from the Rose Place and Mercury Vapour Lamps that are the Caribbean Development Bank community, in order to accommodate on VINLEC’s Transmission and (CDB) and VINLEC signed a loan- the project. Distribution (T&D) Network. grant agreement amounting to In fact, the process began some time This is one component of a national US$6.026 million. The project that ago with the removal of vendors from project that is intended to address resulted from the agreement has energy matters with a view to improve three components: the retrofitting of the sea wall in the area of Little energy efficiency, increase the 20 public buildings with energy Tokyo. efficient equipment; installation of a 400-600 kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Plant; the replacement of High Pressure Sodium and Mercury An appeal for help Vapour Lamps with more efficient Light-emitting diode (LED) Lamps. VINLEC is providing engineering support for the Solar PV and street lighting components of the project, and is responsible for the removal of the existing street lamps and their replacement with LED lamps. The installation of LEDs on VINLEC’s Transmission and Distribution network as part of this One of the new LED Streetlight along project commenced on June 22nd in the Endiboro mail road. Campden Park and as of September 1st, a total of 1400 lights have been enhance the lighting quality on the replaced. roadway. At present, LED streetlights along Additionally, the Government the main Leeward and Windward should see a reduction of Highways from Barrouallie to approximately 35-40 percent in energy Georgetown are being replaced. On consumption on its streetlight account completion of the installation along and a reduction in the operating cost the main highways, the teams will focus on continuing the installation of streetlights to the Government. work within the communities. Prior to June 2020, VINLEC had VINLEC’s Transmission & approximately 2800 LED lights Distribution and Planning installed across the country. These THIS ‘APPEAL’ WAS POSTED (hung) the Lewis Punnett Home at Glen — is Departments are responsible for all were installed over the past seven on the perimeter fence of the Court undertaken. aspects of project management as well years, following the execution of a Yard on Tuesday 8th September. We hope that the reproduction of as the assembly of the lights. The LED pilot project in 2013. Even in its crude presentation, it this ‘appeal’ would be such that it team is also ably supported by The project also involves the caught the attention of passers-by who would allow for easy perusal by our Ruddy’s Electrical Contracting procurement of engineering consulting quickly concluded, on reading the readers, so that they, too, can make Company Limited with the services, as well as the use of installation aspect. message, that it was ‘an appeal for their assessment of what the message contractors for the design-supply- purports. The new LED light fixtures will help’ from, perhaps, a resident of the install of the Solar PV Plant and the Poor Home. It seems, after all, that a change of help to reduce the energy consumption retrofitting of the Public Building. The Poor Home is now located in physical location just might not have of streetlights, reduce the carbon what was once the Nurses Hostel made any real difference in the lives of emissions associated with HPS and VINLEC anticipates that the along the Leeward Highway, while those who choose to reside at the Poor Mercury Vapour Lamps; reduce the streetlight component of the project refurbishment of the original Home — Home and for those who have no maintenance requirements associated will be completed by the third quarter alternative in their twilight years. with streetlighting and maintain or of 2021. (Submitted by: VINLEC) 14. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V News ShameShame onon usus VincentiansVincentians

YES, SHAME ON US, THE GREATER the level of academic achievement and the related status and societal recognition; on those heads and shoulders rest the greater portion of the responsibility for that shame. After almost fifty years of our being The sidewalk along the back of the Girls’ High School and St. responsible for the Vincent Grammar School begs for some attention. management of our own A significant welfare, the evidence of number of our citizens decadence is who had launched overwhelming, irrefutable their careers between testimony that our the 1950s and 1980s, leadership has been are beginning to leave indifferent to the areas of their ethereal abode; responsibility which are it is pitiable that they elemental to the welfare are not leaving for the of the people they are There’s no telling who is responsible for this unsightly state of next wave of citizens a undertaken to serve. affairs behind the St. Vincent Grammar School. platform which will be Look at the condition strong enough to cope of our roads and drains seem to have become so commit themselves to with the debts we are throughout the state. Right in indifferent, that their speaking and acting, when leaving them to repay. our capital Kingstown, the attractively clad ladies must there is evidence of any In those times, the grass in the drains from negotiate choked drains at the violation of these principles. documentation that Sharpe Street to the cemetery, entrances to their workplaces Some days ago, I met one of we were the smallest tells the story of neglect. when there is a shower of our distinguished citizens in nation to ever serve Even the perennially well- rain. But people are not Kingstown and I was keen to on the Security respected business institutions complaining, so those show him some photos which conditions had been taken just a few Council of the United become the days before, of the area at the Nations, will hardly norm, and the back of the St. Vincent be able to stir our authorities Grammar School and the national pride! seemingly not Girls’ High School, exhibiting A far from pleasing sight situation at driven by the the obvious neglect. He was LeRoy Providence the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital. commitment enthusiastic; he said people towards the had been “talking a lot about improved well- those matters and also about being of the the condition inside the populace, are buildings themselves.” If that quite is so, responsible, mature comfortable in citizens ought to speak and act the malaise. until the unhealthy situation But those is remedied. persons in the There is more to the society who have exhibition and demonstration been parented, of national pride than the taught, trained exposure of our leaders on the at whatever UN Security Council for two level, to years! As a matter of fact, it recognize the hints of hypocrisy and even value of the recklessness with the use of adherence of resources, when such basic certain basic needs cannot be addressed principles, over so long a period, as is “That almost derelict pole – standing aimed at the evidenced in the road at the valiantly in the drain next to our noble development of a back of the GIRLS’ HIGH Parliament Building - …. speaks volumes healthy and SCHOOL and the of the quality of management in our peaceable ST.VINCENT GRAMAMR The state of some documents at the all-important Registry in capital. (Le Roy Providence) society, must SCHOOL. Kingstown. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 15. 16. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 17. 18. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice He has spoken

Dear George,

I AM IN LOVE with this guy for the past 11 years. I left St. Vincent 3 years ago for the United States in order to pave the way for a better life for both of Left stranded us. Before I left, we made the decision to get married as soon as this COVID-19 Dear Left stranded, situation was resolved. About two weeks ago, I learned that It seems obvious that your guy has a good friend of mine was now living moved on. He has already told you he with him and a wedding was being has moved on, but you just did not planned “soon”. All efforts to reach interpret the coding. him, by phone, WhatsApp have failed. At this point, you need to focus on This development is hurting up my your own personal development and head. Why doesn’t he just tell me that move on as well. You cannot sit what we had is no more, and allow me around waiting in vain. to move on? Why are some women so Take a reset and start charting a wicked? This woman knows how far new course for your future. this man and I have come. George Two wrongs don’t ... Dear George, cannot successfully move between your rival and in on your partner if she his wife is not a good one THIS MAN has a did not give him some and you should back beautiful wife and still access. You have had the down from it. Two going after my girl. conversation with the wrongs cannot and will When I approached him wrong individual. never make a right. on the matter, he said it This idea of getting was my girl who was George coming after him, and that we would not be having this conversation Do not close your eyes if that was so. Dear George, I asked him what about his wife, and his response was there is MY BOSS HAS APPROACHED ME about having nothing wrong with a sex with her. My boss is female and so am I. I man having two women. work at her house as cleaner/babysitter. It was then that I told The thing is, her husband has no clue about him he wouldn?t be that side of her. A few times she has brought singing that song when I other women to the house and would lock move in on his wife. themselves in her bedroom for hours at a time. I know a lot of things And there is never a day that she hasn’t hit on about his wife that he me. does not know. I was just Her request is that if I have just one “session” being a gentleman and she would triple my salary and bother me after giving him some respect. that. I am tempted to do as she asked just to save Now that the battle lines my job, but there is still this voice in my head have been drawn, let the telling me not to do it. What do you say, George? chips fall where they Should I just close my eyes and do it just this may. Wicked man! once, or stand my ground and risk losing my job? Revenge seeker Questions

Dear Revenge seeker, Dear Questions,

I have not heard you Sexual harassment on the job or anywhere else mention having any should never be tolerated. No one should ever use conversation with your their position of power or authority to intimidate girl about this situation. or threaten their employees. She would certainly be in You may find that it is sometimes costly when a better position to give you choose to maintain your dignity. At the end of you clarity on what is the day, however, the satisfaction of having made happening. A man that choice will be much more celebrated. Now is not the time to close your eyes and walk into something that is against your morals and conviction. You have a choice to make, but keep in mind that at the end of the day, you are the one who has to live with it.

George THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 19. V Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ACROSS Rest and relaxation will be more You could expand your circle of friends favorable than you think. Minor fevers if you get involved in unusual activities. 1. Falcon cousin or infections will develop if you're You can make new friends who could 5. Nuclear unit over-stressed. Problems with your turn into intimate connections if you 9. Away boss could lead to unemployment. join clubs or take creative courses. 12. Russian czar 13. Rotunda roof TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) 14. Sticky gunk Be sure that you lay your cards on the You will enjoy travel and getting 15. Washed-out table. You can put in some overtime together with peers. Your mate, 16. Extinct and make extra cash. Passion is however, may not be too pleased with 17. Haul inevitable and commitments can be you. Cultural activities will prove to be made during the heat of the night. 18. City rodent quite enlightening for everyone. 20. Salt dispensers 22. Small apartment GEMINI (May 22-June 21) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You will probably have to defend your 25. Legendary boxer Do not push your opinions or try to 26. “Who – that?” mate. Do a little extra work at home. reform your emotional partner this You can bet officials will be waiting for 27. Average condition week. Take care of any medical 29. Complicated situation you when you do. Get more involved problems if they've been troubling you. in group efforts at work. 33. Refrigerate New hair, new outfit, new you. 34. Passes over CANCER (June 22-July 22) 37. Clear profit CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 38. Majority 3. tusked Alaskan Money may slip through your fingers. You can make adjustments in your completeness 46. Tennis event A new relationship can be yours if you 40. Feline sound mammals 31. Perceived 47. Very proper domestic scene this week. Educational 41. Asian export 4. Massage (tired get out with friends. Make the courses will be stimulating and 32. Antlered deer 48. Hawaiian necessary changes that will enable 42. Have to pay muscles) 35. Barnyard performance successful. Your outgoing nature might 45. Identifying 5. Say further you to advance financially. Lovers may work against you this week. enclosure 49. Nothing but no be truthful. 47. Fakes 6. Sock ends 36. Deck mop 50. Hardly crazy 51. Soap portion 7. Nebraska 39. Heavy weight 54. Cash roll AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 52. Do a sprint destination LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Some of that extra energy you have 43. Diameter 56. Total You should not be concerned with 53. Sketch 8. Army award 44. Otherworldly 57. Five plus five stored up might just be put to good 55. Laboratory evaluation 9. Leer at coworkers who insist on spreading use. Don't expect others to live up to rumors.Be willing to listen, but don't 58. Feeling poorly 10. Half of eight their promises and you won't be 59. Singer Turner 11. Dense mists be fooled. Relationships will be disappointed or find yourself stuck emotional this week. 60. Mystery-novel hint 19. Helpful with delays. 61. Spring month suggestions 62. Obey (orders) 21. Cinematic VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You may have the energy to clear up 63. Holy song Basinger Disputes may start because of a lack of 22. Enjoy a pool that mound of paperwork facing you. honesty. A second chance will result in You will be able to get good advice if DOWN 23. Mexican dish good work. You can convince others to 24. Grown acorn you listen to close friends or relatives follow suit. You won't have to look for 1. Leg joint 28. Glass edge SOLUTION you respect. You need to take a break the action. with the ones you love. 2. Siren Gardner 30. With LAST WEEK’s V 20. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. THE VINCENTIAN Four teams relegated to First Division FOUR TEAMS, CAMDONIA- However, the that all important goal in CHELSEA, Bequia United, relegation of the four was the 42nd minute.-- Greiggs and SV United, not a foregone decision, In the second match of who campaigned in the as several permutations a double header on Premier Division of the loomed in the last round Friday, Awesome did 2020 St Vincent and the of matches on Friday and themselves no good when Grenadines Football Saturday. One of they were held to a 1-1 Federation’s National Club Avenues United, Sion draw by Camdonia- Championships, have been Hill, Awesome or SV Chelsea. Kendale Burke relegated to the First United could have joined netted for Camdonia- Division. the other three which Chelsea in the 3nd When the had already known their minute and Tevin Championships fate. Thompson levelled for concluded last Sunday, Avenues United kept Awesome FC in the 47th. the four teams as their status in tact with This meant that SV referenced occupied the a one-nil win over a United had to defeat last four positions in the determined Greiggs Sion Hill to remain in Zidane Sam points table. team, Erel Hector scoring the Premiership, leaving Awesome FC to return to the First Division, after a one-year stint. Sion Hill though eased the tension for Awesome FC with a 3-2 win with their goals coming from Final Points Standings Tyrese Dickson ( 35th min.), Karanji Alexander next year in the Premier registered 21 goals which (54th min.) and Rohan Division. earned him a call up to Thomas Jr. (63rd min.). the St. Vincent and the SV United’s were scored Top Goal Scorers Grenadines Senior by Curtlon Jack in the Team’s training squad. 23rd and 56th minutes. Despite being demoted Second to Sam was Layou United and to the First Division, Avenues United’s Erel Largo Height, winner Greiggs left a mark on Hector with 17 goals, Layout United will campaign in the Premier Division and will look to and first runner-up the Premier Division, as followed by BESCO- recapture the days of the mighty Gladiators football team that came out of respectively in the First Zidane Sam was the Pastures’ Dequan Spring that community. Division, will campaign leading goal scorer. Sam who scored 12 times. World Cup Qualifiers pushed back A JOINT DECISION OF CONCACAF The release continued: and FIFA means that St Vincent and “Additionally, several the Grenadines Senior Men’s Football countries across the team’s (Vincy Heat) first round Confederation have travel matches slated for October and restrictions and quarantine November in the CONCACAF requirements, which would Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup make international football Qatar 2022, will not now be played. involving 30 national teams Instead, those Qualifiers have been extremely difficult”. pushed back to March of 2021. CONCAF assured that it Vincy Heat was slated to play had worked with FIFA to Curacao in Curacao on 8th October finalise a new schedule, and host the British Virgin Islands on beginning with the first 13th March. round in March 2021, which Then in November, Vincy Heat was will be communicated in due Kendale Mercury, Head scheduled to be away to Guatemala on course. Coach of the SVG Senior the 13th and meet Cuba here in St The first round format of Men’s Football team, had Vincent and the Grenadines on the the qualifiers involves the indicated in an earlier 17th. ranked team from positions interview that he was The deferral of matches was 6 to 35, placed in six groups Vincentians have to wait a bit longer if they are to witness comfortable with the new occasioned by health challenges posed of five. this type of celebration from VincyHeat. format. by the many protocols associated with Only the winners of the the COVID-19 pandemic. groups will advance to the CONCACAF, in a release on Second Round, where the six will The three teams that emerge from the Second Round will join the five top The teams finishing one, two and Tuesday, noted: “Many parts of the engage in a single elimination match three will punch their tickets to the region continue to have very as follows: Group A winner versus the ranked CONCACAF teams - USA, Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras and Qatar Finals, while the fourth place challenging public health situations, winner of Group F; Group B winner will head to an Inter-Continental Play and that has been a key factor in this versus Group E winner; and Group C Jamaica - in a Round Robin Home and Away Format. Off for the possibility of CONCACAF decision”. winner versus Group D winner. getting another spot. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 21. V Sports T20: Double wins for two

Ozico Williams hit 40 and 63 in Strike Chelson Stowe top scored with 66 in Salvan Browne hit 65 in Police Two’s Devon Charles bagged 5 for 14 for Eagles’ successful weekend. Keegan’s Bequia XI win over Victors humiliation of Northern Stars. Strike Eagles against North Two. Windward Stories by I.B.A. ALLEN Strike Eagles replied capturing 5 for 14. turned in figures of 3 for Providence 3 for 32 Police Two took with 111 for 4 in 14 On Saturday, Victors 26. Police One were leading the bowling for advantage of CJ MSDA THE 2020 EDITION OF overs. Ricky King led One went under to humbled in their replay, Victors Two, who replied Julius Anthony THE Neil Williams T20 the MSLLMCT batting Guardian General coming to attention at with 90 for 7 in their 20 Northern Stars by 84 Competition got going with 32, and Keyan Saints by a mere two 78 all out in 14 overs. overs. Romando Mars runs. Salvan Browne’s last weekend with eight Dowers and Adrian runs, in a low-scoring Only two batsmen made 31 and Jenry 65 pushed Police Two to games. Stapleton had 2 wickets encounter. Victors managed double figures Ollivierre took 2 for 9 165 for 7 in their 20 Standing out were each bowling for Strike managed 100 for 6 in 15 — Danson Andrews 39 for Keegan’s Bequia XI. overs, to which Strike Eagles, who had Eagles. Ozico Williams, overs — Miles Bascombe and Parnell Browne 10. A day before at Park Northern Stars replied back to back victories on 40, Keyan Dowers, 30 top scoring with 40 and Rayon Williams arrested Hill, Pollard Investment with a disappointing 81 Saturday at the Stubbs not out, paced Strike Jeremy Layne and five Police wickets for 24 North Windward held in 15.4 overs. Salvan Playing Field, and Eagles to victory. Jeremy Haywood taking runs. off FLOW Radcliffe by 8 Spencer picked up 3 for Guardian General In their other match two wickets each. Keegan’s Bequia XI, runs. Pollard 17 for Police Two. Saints, who did likewise which began at 2:00pm, Saints replied with 102 finalist in the just Investment North And Police One came at the Arnos Vale Strike Eagles proceeded for 7 in 15 overs, Layne concluded First Division Windward managed 124 away winners by 19 Playing Field. to trounce Vee Jays Roof leading with 34 not out of the Men’s Senior all out in 20 overs, runs over Vee Jays Roof In their first match Top and Bar North and Luke Browne Competition, continued Shem Browne 36 and Top and Bar North which began at Windward. The former snaring 3 for 21. their rich vein of form Razine Browne 27. Windward. Police One 10:00am, Strike Eagles eased to 176 all out in Saints returned on when they defeated FLOW Radcliffe’s lead made 138 for 9 in their quickly set aside 20 overs - Ozico Sunday to record victory Victors Two by 60 runs bowlers were Othneil 20 overs of which Gosnel Dominic Sutherland Williams, 63 off 37 balls, over Police One. Led by on Sunday, at the Arnos Lewis 3 for 18 and Cupid scored 47. Oneil Lloyd Lewis Memorial and Joey Liverpool, 36, 54 from Sunil Ambris Vale Playing Field. Richie Richards 3 for 33. Thomas’ 3 for 15 top the Cricket Team shared a first wicket who opened the batting, Chelson Stowe’s 66 from FLOW Radcliffe were bowling for North (DSLLMCT). The latter stand of 91 — then Saints closed on 175 for 38 balls helped Bequia stranded at 116 for 7 Windward who replied took first knock and disposed of their 9 in their 20 overs. to 150 for 8 from 20 when their overs ran out with 120 all out in 19.2 were held to 110 for 7 in opponents for 70 in 13.1 Lawman Gerald Gould overs, with Zimron — Browne returning to overs. Kimali Williams 18 overs, to which overs - Devon Charles take 3 for 17. had 3 for 22. JG Tigress notches first win

THE 2020 SVG CRICKET Association Female T20 Competition bowled off last Saturday. The fixture for that day showed two scheduled matches. Only one was played. The one that was played between JG Tigress and Sons and CJ MSDA Julius Anthony Northern Girls turned out to be a no contest of Action in the JG Tigress versus Northern Girls match that marked the opening of the 2020 T20 Female Championship. sorts, with the latter bowing in defeat by 10 all out, with wickets 4 each, and Glendeen accumulate their total. without losing a wicket. with United Survivors wickets. falling to Isha Williams 3 Turtin 2 for 12. JG Tigress and Sons’ The other match — being declared winners Northern Girls batting for 8, Stacy-Ann Adams Northern Girls batted for replied lasted 7 overs as United Survivors versus by default. first, posted a measly 43 and Samantha Cain 2 for all of 16.2 overs to they cruised to 44 Radcliffe Girls — ended 22. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 . THE VINCENTIAN V Sports Dark View champs Incredible NL Academy THAT HAS BECOME MY MOST popular expression, rehashed from a Nicaraguan commentator who made the exclamation when Jamaica salvage an 89th minute goal in a Concacaf elimination match recently. Nicaragua had secured a 3:2 away victory in the first Tournament encounter, and Nicaragua had taken their battle that far and seemed to be in a zone of safety. That goal sank the DARK VIEW FUTURE Bordel playing field. figures of 4 for 25 hearts of the Nicaraguans. STARS emerged winners of Young Striker posted from 4 overs while In these times of the new normal, anything can the Jules Anthony Youth 94 from 18 overs. Lebron Douglas took 2 happen. Academy Tournament, Reshawn Lewis top for 20 from 3 overs. The way the St. Lucia Zouks stormed into the following a five-wicket win scored with 34 while Caribbean Premier League T/20 Final is another of Dark View Future over Trinity Falls Young those unbelievable stories. Kirtney Franklyn hit 30. Stars in reply raced to Striker in the final played AJ Delpche was the pick 96 for 5 from 14 overs. Orico Matthews most Imagine the affair over in 18.1 overs. promising player. Guyana Amazon Warriors are known to be a last Sunday at the Petit of the bowlers with Player of the finals power house in regional cricket. The Windwards, A.J. Delpleche hit an unbeaten 38. He Kewonnie Matthews - invariably come up short when playing against the Most Promising Fast Guyanese, whether it’s the four day, 50, or T/20. got good support from Dexroy Hooper 27 not Bowler; Jordan Charles - What transpired in that second semi-final match Most Promising Spin is nothing short of the unbelievable. Guyana was out. Kirtney Franklyn Bowler; Dexroy Hooper — dismissed for 55 in 13.2 overs. took 2 for 26. If it wasn’t cricket, I would have doubted my eyes. Individual awards Most Promising The Zouks knocked off the target in 4.3 overs were handed out as Wicketkeeper/Batsman; without loss. Some cynics remarked about throwing follows: Shey Ann Orico Matthews and in the towel as the final rites were being executed. Gaymes - Most Kimoni Shoy - Most That set up a final with the Trinbago Knight Promising Female Promising Players; AJ Riders yesterday. That squad entered the final on a Player; Kimoni Shoy - Delplesche - MVP of the ten-game winning streak, and no one will question Most Disciplined tournament. their invincibility. Player; Deshad The Tournament was But in tournaments, a team is likely to met a Simmons — Most sponsored by Roland hiccup, somewhere. The Zouks would have hoped Promising Batsman; that the time had come for the streak to be snapped. Dark View Future Stars Champions Patel Matthews. The Zouks would have celebrated their resounding triumph in the semis. But there is nothing to be I.B.A.ALLEN gained in premature champagne popping. So, both teams would have approached the final with caution. Gomea Bombers Commendations are in order to the organisers for spearheading the championship in the midst of the Covid outbreak. While the absence of live fans dominant in presented a still born image of regional reaction, everyone would have been grateful that there was at least some form of sporting entertainment. first outing. By the time one begins reading this article, the game would have been over. So, there is no point COMPETITION IN THE match, Hard Hitters, belabouring what could have taken place. I have 2020 NLA/TBPO T20 who had been declared been accused of a leniency towards cricket and for Championship began in the best Turned Out overlooking other spheres of sporting discipline. earnest last weekend at Team at the formal Without being naïve, or over zealous when it the Dauphine playing opening, inflicted the Kimono Shoy most comes to North Leeward and its sporting agenda, I field. first defeat of the promising player. will monitor the performance of the Jules Anthony And former Competition, when they Northern Stars. Jules has departed, his legacy Champions Gomea dispensed with Fairbaine endures. There will be no more discussions and Bombers provided the Chennai Strikers by 80 analyses of any and every agenda, be it sports weekend’s most runs. Hard Hitters culture, or politics. emphatic victory and the registered 162 in 19.1 Northern Stars, the squad which he nurtured, first century maker. overs - Niko Robinson Terrance Patterson have returned to the Premier Division, where the Terrence Patterson, in 40, Collin Williams 36, recorded the first nation’s top cricketers face each other. Their a brutal assault on a Jimmy Providence 3 for century of the 2020 previous effort did not go the way they will have hapless Rangers United 15, Darie Peters 3 for 20 NLA/TBPO T20 wanted, and they will have to prove themselves bowling attack last and Kegan Cordice, 2 for Championship. worthy of being in the elite. Sunday, recorded a not 27. Fairbane stumbled North Leeward had another test of their out innings of 103 off a and stuttered through 20 23, Winston Holder 3 for suitability in the first encounter of this year’s Neil mere 47 deliveries faced, overs for 82 for 8. 15, Karramo McKie 2 for Shey Ann Gaymes most Williams T/20 tournament. and helped Bombers to Having no answer for 8, Wendel Corridon 2 for promising female. Perhaps they have not overcome the euphoria of an unassailable 234 for 4 Kerwin Williams, 4 for 15. the elevation and were outclassed by a Police outfit in 20 overs. Rangers 22. Sion Hill Tallawah in their opening encounter. United batsmen never In the first of three beat Sunset Strikers by North Leeward did relatively well to pull back the seemed prepared to matches played on 8 wickets. Scores: Sunset Police to 160 in their 20 overs. But they never found mount any serious Sunday, Dr Thomas Strikers 111 for 7 in 15 any bearings and faltered for 81. They have chances challenge and locked up Injectors beat C G M overs - Oswald Soleyn of redeeming themselves this weekend. hook line and sinker for Gallenger Novice by 34 35, Denson Hoyte 2 for2, There is a tendency of complacency by sporting a paltry 84 in 18 overs. runs. Scores: Injectors Alex Roberts 2 for 10; personnel. When it comes to maintaining Raymond Sayers and 126 for 9 in 20 overs - Tallawah 112 for 2 in consistency, there is a Caribbean shortfall. Terrance Baptiste each Javorn Nero 22 not out, 11.5 overs - Shamic But no one can condemn the North Leeward had 3 for 15, and Kenton Carlton Baptiste 3 for Roberts 29 not out, contingent for their efforts to persist. Perhaps the McFee 2 for 13 for 14, Norlan Williams 2 Marlon Baptiste 26 not time will come when they will be rewarded. Bombers. for 27; Novice 92 in 17 out, Denson Hoyte 24. In Saturday’s opening overs - Norlan Williams AJ Deplche MVP of the I.B.A.ALLEN tournament. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020. 23. V Classifieds

Obituary

BRERETON, Margaret Lorna, 84, of St. Petersburg was called home on Aug. 31, 2020.

Margaret, born in St. Vincent, W.I., is survived by her devoted daughter, Alison, loving sister, Sheila Wilson of Miami, family, friends and faithful caregivers.

A Celebration of Life will take place post COVID-19 on Aug. 7, 2021.

LAWRENCE MELVINA LEOPOLD LEONARD HACKSHAW EDWARDS BENJAMIN Sunday, 6th Sunday, 6th Sunday, 6th September, 2020 September 2020 September, 2020 6W-RVHSK Faith Spiritual Barrouallie 6SLULWXDO%DSWLVW %DSWLVW&KXUFK Evangelical Church 1HZ0RQWURVH Church Fountain Viewing: Viewing: Viewing: 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. Service: Service: Service: 2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Interment: Interment: Interment: Glebe Belair Cemetery .LQJVWRZQ Hill Cemetery Cemetery

,5(1(³7,1<¶¶5,&+$5'6 FREDERICK OLLIVIERRE Saturday, 5th September, 2020 6+(0/$1&(/27 Saturday, 5th %87( 6W3HWHU¶V September, 2020 6SLULWXDO%DSWLVW 6W0DWWKHZV :HGQHVGD\ Church Anglican Church 2nd September, 'DVFHQW&RWWDJH Biabou 2020 Viewing: Viewing: .LQJVWRZQ 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Chapel Service: Service: Service: 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m. Interment: Interment: .LQJVWRZQ Biabou Cemetery Cemetery AI REAL ESTATE Residential development in Belvedere lots at $17.00 p.s.f. Fairly flat to gentle sloping.

Campden Park 5 bedrm Property on 3,835 sq.ft. 5 bedrms, 3 bathrms. Price for quick sale: $205,00.00.

(784)- 457-2087/(718)-807-4376 office (784)-493-9431/(784)-533-0431 whatsappcell [email protected]

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 VOLUME 114, No.37 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 WORK PERMITS DENIED: PARENTS PROTEST

public school. the school was forced to be Advance notice removed from Further on the issue, St that location. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince, But an Minister of Education, agreement asserted in a press was reached conference earlier this between week, that all major Government stakeholders knew well in and the other advance that there was to stakeholders be a merger between the that the Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves Pelican School and the school would waded in on the issue with a very Canouan Government be allowed to succinct explanation of the cause Primary. operate for a of the protest. The Minister was year within responding to protest the state-owned facility, after which students of the action by parents of Pelican School would be absorbed into the Canouan students who attended the Government School. The Canouan Government School where the Pelican School. They were The agreement, Prince said, was to have one Pelican School was allowed to occupy the section protesting the requirement that their children be school on the compound. to the right. (Photo credit: testwpo5.tecnavia.co) transferred to the Canouan Government School. To have two separate schools - one government However, Prince reiterated that parents knew of and one private — operating out of the same facility, by DAYLE DA SILVA the new arrangement way in advance of the re- runs foul of the Education Act, Prince explained. opening of school, and some parents had already Not only was that a problem, but there was also ACCORDING TO PRIME MINISTER Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, transferred their children. an issue of using different syllabi. the refusal by his government to grant extensions of The Pelican School, it was explained, was located “We told them that we would not be allowing it five work permits for some of the expatriates who on lands in the South that was given over for and we cannot do that,” Prince said, “and there was worked at the Pelican School in Canouan, triggered the development by Dermot Desmond. This meant that no objection to the construction of another school.” recent protest by some parents on that southern Grenadine island. “If the Pelican School cannot exist, why am I giving you a permit?,” Gonsalves questioned in a radio address on September 4, alluding to the Children among dengue cases agreement that Pelican School would have by now, been absorbed into the Canouan Government School. AS OF SEPTEMBER 3, 2020, haemorrhagic fever among that He would have considered granting the work children between the ages of 0-5 number. permit extensions if those concerned had years old accounted for 45% of the Given the rapid rise in cases, decided to work in other areas within education, 185 laboratory confirmed cases of the Ministry of Health has stepped but the government could not go against its dengue here. up its fogging schedule, since this policy and issue a work permit, the Prime This was disclosed by Tamara is the most effective communal Minister said. Bobb, Epidemiologist in the manner to combat the mosquito “So that was the trigger for what transpired, Ministry of Health, Wellness and which carrries the dengue virus. so the persons are saying that work permits the Environment, as she spoke as a These mosquitoes are known to were denied, and some heard it and decided to guest on the VC3 Television’s breed in and near homes. protest,” the Prime Minister explained. Round Table on Thursday 3. Accordingly, the Ministry of According to Gonsalves, he had received an Bobb shared that the number Health is appealing to households email from Pignataro of the Pelican School on 185 represented an astronomical here to cover or empty all September 3, to which he responded by increase of 111 over the 74 cases containers so as to decrease likely reminding the investor of the terms which had that were recorded by August 25, habitats for the dengue virus been discussed and agreed back in 2018. 2020. carrying mosquitoes. Among the terms agreed: the school will be This is by far the highest According to the Mayo Clinic, set up for public education and cater for a total increase for a nine-day period when USA, mild dengue fever causes a of 400 students; it will include IT and Science compared to previous years (2010 high fever, rash, and muscle and Tamara Bobb, Epidemiologist in the laboratories, library and auditorium; the and 2014) of dengue outbreaks in joint pain. A severe form of dengue Montessori school will be open to all children Ministry of Health, did not hide the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. fever, also called dengue fact that SVG has had a large free of charge and that the students will be And as of September 3, 62% of haemorrhagic fever, can cause allowed to complete the academic year in the increase in dengue cases in a very the cases have been hospitalized, severe bleeding, a sudden drop in short space of time. (Photo Credit: new school campus, to avoid disruption to their with two cases of dengue blood pressure (shock) and death. VC# Round Table Talk) curriculum, before being absorbed by the Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.