FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.04 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

No community Frankie Randy sent Another No Lahar spread gratified off homicide Page 12 Page 3 Page 5 Page 11 Page 24 ANOTHER BILLION- DOLLAR YEAR

Stories million. The minister of finance added that per cent increase) and sinking fund by DAYLE DASILVA This anticipated deficit, not new to taxes on income and profit was also contributions (EC$2 million, 51.1 this country, was this time around expected to fall by 4.3 percent, or $7 percent decrease). THE 2021 ESTIMATES OF REVENUE AND attributed to the weak position in million — the same with taxes on goods Capital Expenditure EC$317.4 EXPENDITURE which amount to which government began 2021 because and services which was expected to million, a 2.1 percent increase, was EC$1,212,601,578 and is 2.2 percent of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the decrease by EC$7.2 million or 3.7 projected to be used primarily for higher than the approved figure for expected slowdown in economic percent and taxes in international physical infra-structural projects 2020, got a safe passage through activity for the coming year. trade and transactions to fall by 7.8 aimed at reducing the vulnerability Parliament on January 27. percent or EC$13.7 million. factor. The overall projection is for a Tax sources taking a blow Financing was expected to come deficit year of EC$50.7 Expenditure – Revenue from Current Revenue amounting to Including in that EC$647,386,000, a decrease of 4.8 projected decrease is a Recurrent Expenditure in 2021 was percent, and Capital Receipts of Camillo blow of a 5.4 percent projected to amount to EC$565,212,575. Gonsalves, to tax sources. It EC$895,199,329, inclusive of Finance was estimated that amortization (EC$175.1 million, 14.8 Continued on Page 3. Minister, tax sources would tabled yet generate EC$554 another million to the deficit . Consolidated Fund and non-tax sources PUBLIC DEBT EC$93.4 million, a one percent drop. INCREASES

FINANCE MINISTER CAMILLO GONSALVES, during his presentation of the 2021 Revenue and Expenditure at a sitting of the House of Assembly last Wednesday, January 27, disclosed that the public debt stood at EC$1,871,029,887, as of December 31, 2020. This figure, the Minister said, represented a 12 percent increase over the figure for 2019. and other development agencies, In detailing the debt, Gonsalves against which some net payment said the domestic debt increased by were made during 2020. 17.2 percent and was now put at Those included a payment of EC$579.6 million, with EC$2.5 million to loans from the external debt registering an Caribbean Development Bank; EC$6 increase of 2.9 percent to million on a loan from the Republic of now stand at EC$1.29 China on Taiwan; EC$4.2 million to billion. ALBA; EC$1.5 million to the The increase in the CARICOM Development Fund and external debt was EC$5.8 million to bond holders. the product of soft The total debt service for 2021 is loans from agencies projected to be EC$271.9 million, or like the World Bank 41 percent of the current revenue. 2. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V News Medical Cannabis Pharmacy opened here THERE HAVE been some Building on Bentick Square, with their medical needs. challenges as a result of the Kingstown. Chief Executive Officer Covid-19 pandemic on the Speaking at the opening at MCA, Dr. Jerrol progress of the local Medicinal ceremony, Operation Manager Thompson noted that Cannabis Industry. However it of Green Lava (SVG) Inc. Green Lava (SVG) Inc. is has not stopped the opening of Hilton Dalzell thanked the one of a number of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Government and the Medical companies that have first Medical Cannabis Cannabis Association (MCA) received a license to Pharmacy. almost a month ago. for its cooperation and support engage in medicinal On Wednesday, December thus far, and informed that cannabis cultivation, and 23, 2020 Green Lava Labs the pharmacy will offer a suite is the first to establish a Pharmacy, opened their of medicinal cannabis products medicinal cannabis Government and Green Lava official at the official opening of pharmacy located on the that will aid both local and dispensary in SVG. the Pharmacy. ground floor of the Nicholls visiting qualifying patients He added that the MCA has facilitated training for Caesar. He congratulate the which are keen to explore the over 90 medical doctors, staff of the MCA for its pharmacology and science of pharmacists as well as continued work and stated many of the plants which were veterinarians in the that it is the quest of the brought to the Vincentian medical use of cannabis, government to establish a shores by the people of Ghana. and that he was pleased modern, medical, wellness Caesar stated that it is the to see that one of those industry of which cannabis hope and intention of the pharmacists has been will play a primary part as a government to be a destination engaged by Green Lava. central pillar. of a well- planned, structured, Also speaking at the In a related reference, and conceived, local ceremony was Minister of Caesar disclosed that the nutraceutical industry. Agriculture, Saboto Government of St. Vincent and In extending a warm the Grenadines has started welcome to Green Lava Labs Green Lava Medical conversations with private in the pharmaceutical field, he Cannabis Pharmacy, located in the Nicholls sector companies in West urged them to execute a well- Building. Africa, especially Ghana, organized business. V News 3 lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 3. No community spread

MINISTER OF HEALTH ST CLAIR clustered in time, geographic ‘JIMMY’ PRINCE maintains that location and/or by common the transmission of the COVID- exposures. 19 virus here in St Vincent and According to the Health the Grenadines is not to be Minister clusters identified categorized under community so far had been associated spread. with ministerial He made the statement departments, churches, during last Wednesday’s parties, private sector sitting of the House of workplaces and families Assembly in answer to a with many of the clusters question posed by Leader of having linkages. the Opposition Dr. Godwin Meanwhile, the numbers Friday. published up to January 26 The World Health indicate that there were 35 Organization (WHO) defined confirmed new cases of community spread as being COVID-19, bringing the evidenced by the inability to total number of local cases relate confirmed cases through to 657 and a total of 798 Tamara Bobb, Epidemiologist, chains of transmission for a recorded in the country. shared statistics to show the large number of cases, or by An additional 12 persons demographic impact of COVID- increasing positive tests had recovered bringing the 19. through sentinel samples. total number of recoveries to “For the majority of 165 with 631 cases determine the information. confirmed cases of COVID-19 remaining active and two Persons between the ages of cases in St Vincent and the COVID-19 related deaths. 25 to 44 made up the majority Grenadines, the chains of Epidemiologist Tamara of the cases testing positive, Health Minister St. Clair ‘Jimmy’ Prince was adamant that transmission have been due to Bobb, at a press briefing on comprising 35.4 percent Bobb given the WHO definition, there was no community spread of contact with known cases,” January 26, indicated that said; those between 15 and 24 the coronavirus in SVG. Prince said in response to the based on preliminary data made up 12.9 percent and Leader of the Opposition Dr there were more females who persons between 45 and 54 Godwin Friday in Parliament tested positive accounting for number of infections accounted for 11.9 percent. accounting for over 50 on January 27. 47 percent of the overall There were cases recorded And it was in keeping with positive cases recorded. Males percent of the total Another in all age groups Bobb said. this definition of community made up 35 percent and there cases recovered to The Calliaqua, Pembroke date, the transmission Prince argued were some remaining samples and Georgetown Health that rather, local cases were where it had been difficult to epidemiologist added. billion- Districts led with the greatest (DD) Some facilities off limit dollar year Continued from Front Page. MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC have been reminded that visits Under the projected (2021) to the Argyle Isolation Facility Recurrent Expenditure, wages and (AIF) and the area designated salaries show an increase of EC$14.8 as the COVID Unit in the million with salaries amounting to Milton Cato Memorial Hospital EC$271.9 million, allowances (MCMH) were strictly EC$24.9 million, EC$25.2 million for prohibited. wages and National Insurance Speaking at a virtual press Grace Walters, Hospital Services (NIS) of EC$13.6 million, briefing Tuesday 26th January, amounting to $345.9 million. Grace Walters, Hospital Administrator, asked for co- Administrator, reiterated the The Argyle Isolation Facility was used for administering Wages, salaries, pensions, etc. reminder and said in addition, the operation with the patient care but is now a dedicated to isolation restrictions on decision had been taken to discontinue purposes only. the 11 O’clock visitation time at the visits to two major The budgeted 4.6 percent increase MCMH, and restrict visits to one health facilities in the wages and salaries bill for for all specialized cases, as the district surgical ward 2021 was attributed to the increases person per patient. flu clinics did not have the capacity to has been here. “So, if you are here to see loved continue to keep patients infected with transformed to in increments to be paid to civil ones, a group will not be allowed to COVID-19 and requiring treat COVID-19 patients. servants and the creation of the new enter because we want to limit the hospitalization. As of January 26, Walters said that positions, Gonsalves explained. number of persons at a ward at any This and the increasing number of the number of admissions to this unit The payment of pensions one time,” Walters said. infection have necessitated the AIF was 35, however that number had continued to be among the most She urged members of the public to being used to offer hospital services. dwindled to 7 after a number of significant expenditures for co-operate with the procedure According to Walters, the Argyle persons were either discharged to government with EC$60 million governing visits saying that they may facility admitted persons in complete isolation at home, or they allocated for 2021. be asked a few questions by security circumstances where it had been were transferred to the AIF. “Budgetary provisions for pensions personnel, as they moved to fulfil their determined that they were unable to And given the need for more have grown by over 50 percent in the mandate of ensuring a curb on isolate themselves. designated isolation areas to respond last 10 years,” Gonsalves said, and numbers. That has now changed “….by to those who do not require alluded to a non-contributory scheme Persons at both facilities were still opening the doors at the facility,” and hospitalization but are not able to that posed obvious risks. able to receive items, however, they using it “as a means for isolation properly isolate in their own homes, He reiterated government’s would have to be dropped off at the rather than hospitalization,” she said. Minister of Health St Clair ‘Jimmy’ intention to pursue pension reform booths located at the front of both the To date, the AIF has had a total of Prince confirmed at the press briefing as a priority agenda item. MCMH and the AIF, Walters said. 44 admissions. That number dropped that government had leased a self- “I know I made a similar pledge to 16 by January 26, with some contained 25-room guest house, for a Use of the facilities last year, but the pandemic caused requiring patient care. period of 6 months in the first us to limit the consultations, but we With the rapid increase in the instance. cannot limit those and need to have As for how the facilities were being number of persons requiring patient Additional rooms/space would be constructive conversations this year,” used, Walters pointed out that the care/hospitalization, the female provided should the need arise. (DD) MCMH remained the accepting facility Gonsalves told Parliament. 4. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Court King penalized for breaching quarantine Magistrate Zoila Ellis- facility. Task Force, and the his discharge, he was the stand. Browne handed down the King, who had arrived matter was reported to taken into custody and He is one of several penalty after King was here from Canada on the police. formally charged. persons who have found guilty, following a December 28, chose to go During investigations, The Court heard received penalties for the short trial at the to Paradise Inn at Villa. the police went to evidence from a number offence since the Public Andrew Phillip King, Calliaqua Magistrate’s The Prosecution’s Mangoes Restaurant and of witnesses including Health Act was amended spent only one night in Court on Tuesday. evidence revealed that he Bar at Villa where they Dr. Duncan, the last year to respond to quarantine at an King, said to be born paid US$160 for two met King. investigator Corporal 191 the prevailing COVID-19 approved facility. in England, had given nights, on December 29, When cautioned, he David, and the manager crisis. Of those who have his age as 53 and his but went to the told the police that the of Paradise Inn Hotel. been charge for Stories by residence as Biabou,. He receptionist and Prime Minister gave him King was breaching the quarantine HAYDN HUGGINS was charged with indicated that he would permission to go home. unrepresented and opted protocol, only one has breaching an order by not be staying for the King was taken to the not to give evidence from been acquitted. ANDREW PHILLIP KING, a Medical Officer of Health second day, as he was isolation facility at man who breached a Dr. Roger Duncan, given permission to Argyle where he did the quarantine order last requiring him to leave,. He requested a remaining days, and on December with the Nigerian charged quarantine himself from refund. explanation that the Prime others. The charge was According to the Minister had given him laid under Section 27(a) evidence, he was permission to leave, was with stealing of the Public Health Act. refunded US$40 and he fined $1,000 on Tuesday. Persons entering the drove himself away in a He was allowed one week country are required to rental vehicle. from police to pay the fine with an quarantine for 14 days, The authorities at the alternative of six months of which ten are to be hotel became suspicious, SAMUEL OMIDOYN, a 33-year-old Nigerian in prison. done at an approved contacted the COVID-19 student resident here, will return to Court April 12 for trial on a charge of stealing from a police officer. Omidoyn is accused of stealing a Samsung cellular phone along with sim card, memory card Police halts security and phone case, all belonging to Sergeant Rawl Pope of Lowmans Leeward, and amounting to a total value of $840. breach at HMP The offence was allegedly committed at Arnos Vale on January 22. Fitzgerald Phillips The Nigerian pleaded not guilty when he THE VIGILANCE of Corporal 296 Samuel was cautioned again, and appeared before Senior Magistrate Rickie Burnett Davis and Constable 540 Sam, both of replied, “Is a man me go help.” at the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. the Criminal Investigation He was arrested and on January 29 Belmont man He is on station bail and was represented in Department (CID), prevented a he was formally charged with Court by attorney Michael Wyllie. quantity of prohibited items, including attempting to induce prohibited items charged with marijuana, from entering Her into He Majesty’s Prison. manslaughter Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown, last The charge was laid under Section Saturday. 47(b), Chapter 393, of the Prison Act. Van drivers That action also led to Oscar Samuel pleaded guilty when he FITZGERALD Samuel, 40-year-old janitor of New appeared before Chief Magistrate PHILLIPS, 41, of Montrose, being sentenced to four Rechanne Browne at the Serious Belmont, will appear urged to sanitize months in prison, on Tuesday. Offences Court on Tuesday. He was at the Serious Offence Before sentencing, the Serious unrepresented. Court, Monday 1st THE POLICE FORCE TRAFFIC DEPARTMENT is Offences Court heard that around The Chief Magistrate’s stressed the February on a appealing to those mini-bus operators who are not 12:15 p.m. last Saturday, Davis and seriousness of the offence, as well as manslaughter charge. sanitizing their buses, to do so. Sam were on duty and while travelling the consequences. She noted that a Phillips is charged Officer Jones issued the call while speaking to through Paul’s Avenue, they said person could be fined up to $1,500, in with, by an unlawful THE VINCENTIAN on Wednesday. He reminded Samuel attempting to throw a plastic addition to a six months prison act, having caused the operators that there are sanitizing stations at the bag over the prison wall. sentence for such an offence. death of Belmont Windward and Leeward Bus Terminals, and When the officers shouted to him, In outlining the aggravating factors, resident Jason Martin, warned that it is an offence to keep their buses in he took off his slippers, left the bag Browne said Samuel attempted to 47. an unsanitary condition. with its contents and ran. The bag breach security protocols, and that he Phillips was not The Officer noted that under section 41, Chapter was secured and the officers went in did so during a weekend that included required to plead when 483 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic search of Samuel. two public holidays (January 22 and he appeared before Regulations, a person who is guilty of this offence is As they patrolled the Wilson Hill 25) declared for public health reasons, Magistrate Zoila Ellis- liable to a fine of not less than $100, and not area, not far from Paul’s Avenue, the and during which persons were asked exceeding $1,500, and could also be imprisoned for officers spotted as Samuel as he made to stay indoors. Browne at the Calliaqua Magistrate’s 21 days. to enter a gap. He ran when he saw She also noted that Samuel The Senior Traffic Officer said that though the the police and jumped over the fence attempted to evade law enforcement, Court last Tuesday. The matter was Police Force has also been affected by the of the nearby Anglican Church Yard. and that he had previous convictions. coronavirus pandemic, officers are continuing to The officers pursued him and Browne said there were no adjourned and transferred to the work tirelessly to ensure that citizens comply with Constable Sam caught him in that mitigating factors in relation to the the health protocols put in place by the authorities. yard. offence, but that he would benefit from Serious Offences When cautioned, he told the police, a one third discount on his sentence, Court. “Is weed and ting in de bag. Is a work as he pleaded guilty at the first Martin was me go do.” available opportunity. reportedly chopped on A search of the bag in his presence, Using three months as a starting his left leg during an revealed four smaller plastic bags, point, she added one month for each altercation at Belmont each containing marijuana, four packs aggravating factor, and took away two on January 20. of Pall Mall cigarettes, nine cigarette months, in relation to the one third Phillips is lighters, tobacco leaves, three bottles discount and arrived at the four- represented by of alcohol and six packs of wrapping month sentence. attorney Jomo Thomas. paper. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 5. V People Frankie McIntosh ÂgratifiedÊ with UWI honorary doctorate by NELSON A. KING deserving of such college professor, with other producers, Becket having been awarded [email protected] recognition, with the the concomitants of and other artistes, fellow an honorary degree?” US CORRESPONDENT tacit implication that financial security and musicians in the asked McIntosh what we musicians social recognition, or as trenches — all those who rhetorically. “I do VINCENTIAN musical create may have some an employee in an have taught and regret, however, that maestro Franklyn ‘Frankie’ cognitive/intellectual established firm. motivated me over the so many of those who McIntosh says he was import after all.” “The individual then years, particularly to my would have relished “gratified” that the With the western retires after about 30 parents and family for the occasion are no University of the West mindset of “Rational years with a handsome their enduring support.” longer with us — my Indies (UWI) on Jan. 13 Greeks” vs “Emotional pension,” he said. “By McIntosh said parents, John Horne, bestowed on him an Africans”, McIntosh said, comparison, the artist organizations and Kerwyn Morris, honorary Doctor of Letters “similarly, throughout struggles in the trenches individuals such as the Rafael Robertson, (D. Litt). history, the musician’s for 50 years or more, Sunshine Awards, the Michael Lorrainey, McIntosh, a Brooklyn, output has been then receives an Accolades Committee, to name a few. New York resident, was considered as arising honorary doctorate — Birdsong, Tom Hinds “And, of course, bestowed the honour from emotion - except for provided someone of and Naniki; staunch thanks to UWI for during a UWI’s 2020 those genres within the influence makes supporters, like Les the inspiration to virtual Graduation European ‘western submission on his/her Slater of The Trinidad keep looking forward: Franklyn ‘Frankie’ Ceremony, held on musical tradition’, which behalf — then continues and Tobago Folk Arts The Chancellor Mr. McIntosh, D.Litt January 13, 2021. their musicologists to struggle.” Institute and Lio Smith, Robert Bermudez; Orator “On a personal level, I tenuously trace back to jazz saxophonist — all Dr. Francis Severin; feel gratified that the Greece and Rome — Thanks aplenty played a part in the registrars Mrs. Karen personnel who guided me University of the West hence rendering them honor he received. Forde-Warner and Mrs. through the formal Indies has recognized the ‘rational’.” Following on this “How could one Lois Graham; Mr. Reiza process,” he added. work to which I have McIntosh said he has thought, McIntosh said entertain regrets on Haniff; and other UWI dedicated my life for over seen catalogues in which he was “grateful” to the 50 years,” McIntosh told calypso is “subsumed” Vincentian Association of THE VINCENTIAN in under anthropology, but Artists and Writers an exclusive interview on the Beatles is catalogued (VAAW), who first Sunday. under music. conferred an honorary “Having worked as “One goes to work at Ph.D. on him “in their musical arranger with his day job, but own humble way — from artistes from virtually Caribbean musicians go their hearts.” every country in the to play,” he said wryly. He said VAAW Anglophone Caribbean, “All this to say (that) members were among an honor from UWI, with academia has come a others who floated the emphasis on West Indies, long way in its notion of an UWI holds special significance awareness of the role, honorary doctorate to — emotionally and function and value of Prime Minister Dr. spiritually,” he added. local, popular art to Ralph E. Gonsalves — McIntosh confirmed Caribbean society; and “that my name be that e-mails and phone artists, like myself, have submitted to UWI.” calls pour in from the benefited as a result.” Now that it has Caribbean and Diaspora, McIntosh said the become a reality, and said “I am moved by typical Ph.D. candidate McIntosh said, “Thanks the messages of earns his or her degree, are in order to PM congratulation and then becomes of service Gonsalves, VAAW, expressions of pride… . It to society — perhaps as a Granville Straker and makes me even prouder, reflexively, to know that people are proud of me. And this is especially so with regard to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Even at the advanced age of 74, I feel that I am still relevant — can still achieve something, which makes Vincentians proud.” Artiste/musicians deserving of recognition

Noting that, traditionally, universities reserve honorary doctorates for doctors and scientists, among others, McIntosh said, “It speaks volumes of UWI that artistes/musicians You can take the man out of the Caribbean but are now regarded as you can’t take the Caribbean out of the man. 6. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 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 Local transmission

-Day of prayer How the NDP treated “ULP” Public Servants (Pt 2)

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH must have had a heavy breakfast last A reprint from 28th August 1998 respectively to the Wednesday. During the sitting of the House of Assembly that day, he posts of Accountant unloaded a mouthful as to why this country has not declared a state “ESPECIALLY IN THE AREA of the public General and Budget of community spread, as it relates to the coronavirus/COVID-19. utilities did Mitchell zero in on brilliant sons Director, where they He referenced the definition advanced by the WHO with all its of Labourite fathers. drew praise for their scientific jargon that, if the truth be told, must have missed the Hobbes Huggins, former secretary to distinguished service. target — the majority of citizens of this country. Labour and past candidate as well, is father to Nor did the political orientation of their Whether there is or there is not ‘community spread’ as per this Joel Huggins, the Manager of VINLEC, which husbands in any way adversely affect the WHO and government accepted definition, we are still at a loss in so many ways had illuminated the nation promotional prospects of Aberdine Browne as to how we can continue to promote that there is no local during the Mitchell years. Until a recent (Principal Nursing Officer), Laura Browne transmission of the coronavirus. hiccup, Mitchell and Joel Huggins have got on (Deputy-Chief Education Officer) or Lynette We continue to refer to a category of infected persons as ‘cases like a house on fire. Glasgow (Director of Sports). under investigation’, which is deduced by subtracting a sub-total And Daniel Cummings, son of Samuel Social worker Wendell Paris was promoted of imported and import related cases, from the grand total of Cummings of Kingston Park, a Labour in the department of Welfare at the time that recorded cases. supporter to his marrow, was responsible for he was known to be under consideration as a On January 24 for example, communication from the Ministry turning around the dreadful water situation in ULP candidate for South Leeward. of Health informed that there was a total of 746 cases of COVID- St Vincent, and made the local CWSA an In like manner, the impressive Tyrone 19 recorded, comprised of 134 imported cases, 7 import related example to follow in these parts. Daniel is now Burke was appointed our youngest Primary cases and 605 cases under investigation. a leading MP in the opposition NDP. School principal when it was known by all and What is this ‘cases under investigation’? Is it incorrect to Nor did Mitchell allow narrow partisan sundry, that he was a political protégé of Dr. conclude that if we have already discarded the imported and consideration to limit his sights in Gonsalves. import related cases from the grand total to arrive at this ‘cases recommending personnel for the sensitive area Headmaster Hugh Wyllie was granted under investigation’ sub-total, that these ‘cases under of the judiciary. sturdy leave at precisely the moment that his investigation’ represent cases among the local resident population It stands to Mitchell’s credit that he felt name had publicly appeared as being under who we understand have not gone anywhere overseas in the comfortable with the filling of the post of consideration for the ULP candidacy in North recent past? Solicitor-General by Donald Browne, who Leeward. Even if we factor into the ‘cases under investigation’ a number contested in 1985 for the Labour party which There is, of course, the celebrated case of of ‘unresolved cases’ or even a number of imported cases for he once served as Deputy-Chairman. Mrs Pam Browne, wife of ULP Marriaqua argument sake, are we incorrect to conclude that the majority Later, Donald Browne acted as Attorney- strongman Ken Brown, resigning as Assistant would still be local residents who have not gone anywhere General, the highest law office in the land. Secretary only to be later taken back on board overseas? Former Chairman of the Labour Party, the in the berth she had left. Come on!!! We are heartened that that government has venerable Errol Clinton Mounsey, sat as Within the last year, Winfield Williams a awaken to the need to be stringent about the enforcement of the Senior Magistrate whence his wise saws and former secretary of the Labour Party, was health protocols as they relate to combating the spread of the counsel have helped to keep this country from appointed headmaster of the Grammar School. Even when Labour launched its candidates coronavirus, but we have to, at some time, forego the ‘scientific moral derailment. at the Victoria Park in November 1997, the verbosity’ and tell it like it is. For a reasonably long time, Labour’s former chairperson, lawyer Rene` Baptiste held forth organisers could include in their programme of Cuss phrase or not, it is time we own up and say there is local entertainment an item by Martin Quashie, a transmission in our midst. Isn’t the recent ‘partial lockdown’ — a in the offshore banking business during the NDP administration. Her demonstrated civil servant working in the Department of stay indoors test from January 22 to 25 - enough testimony in culture. support of saying, ‘Look man, we have this thing among us capacity in one regime which provided her with a platform and practical training spurred Such a climate of political freedom never locals, let us try and keep away from one another for this period’? obtained in Labour’s days, yet persons have Then again, who knows? The ‘holidays’ could have been a her on to higher heights in Labour to be virtually First Lady of land in various aspects already begun to take their liberty for granted. diversion to take the focus off the persons responsible for guiding Finally, Matthew Thomas (himself a retiree this country through this period of crisis. of Vincentian life, social, cultural and political. She was eventually cut short of her higher in the public interest) was able to get several Even as we confess to being untutored in the science relative public servants who should know better to to the current virus/disease, we are not void of common sense and ambitions, but that is another story. In the boiler-rooms of the service itself, sign a petition calling for my removal as on application of that common sense (Studiation beat Education), Chairman of the Public Service Commission. we insist that regardless of what panic more learned persons feel persons have been readily promoted without thought of their party affiliations, provided To date, not one of those offenders against it might create, let us admit that there is a frightening degree of the regulations has been written to, far less local transmission of the coronavirus in SVG. they met the objective criteria of competence, commitment and integrity. threatened with any form of punishment. Consistent with Government’s policy of Day of Prayer Amazingly, this policy has been more or less followed even where their personnel all but freedom to calypsonians to sing, FM stations wore party labels on their sleeves, and despite to criticize, and the press to print as it like, a Not for the first time, a National Day of Prayer was mounted breath of fresh air has been allowed to course here as an alternative, it seems to some, to complaining about the constant leakage of confidential matters to Mr Beache via one of his ‘little White angels”. through the musty corridors of the service. who has failed to do what, when and how. To the extent that accusations have often It would be folly if our religious leaders - church leaders - do It needs to be added that none of these people ever brought the party alliance (if any) been made by old-school NDPites, chieftains not accept that they will come under the stern gaze of the wider and rank-and-file alike, that their party might to bear on the work they were called upon to population regardless of what they do. be in office but that the opposition ULP runs Then again, is there an unwritten alliance between state and perform. We are dealing with perception and the Government bureaucracy!” church? image, not actuality or reality. In power since 2001, the ULP Leader Dr. The Caribbean Church has all but ceased to be a beacon of Personages such as Evelyn Jackson and Gonsalves is keenly aware of the phenomenon change, peace and justice. Carmen Jack might have moved in Labour and set out early o’clock to stamp it out root Days of Prayers are important but they must also be a Day for circles but that did not stop them from earning and branch, and the country now reels under churches to focus on their shortcomings. the respect of the PM or gaining elevation its effects. lHE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 7. V Views COVID-19⁄ thinking aloud I MUST GIVE the Prime Minister, ourselves as being resilient Yes the mask could get the mini bus operators might place rests with the Dr. Hon Ralph Gonsalves kudos and all that, when we can’t uncomfortable but in this cry foul but they have to make government, and they will be for his response to the COVID-19 discipline ourselves. If we case, being uncomfortable the sacrifice as much as we criticized if they do not come crisis here. always need someone to tell might just save your life. And have like, who knows, up to trumps, combating the I mean, he could have us what to do and how to we cannot forget the first accepting a pay cut for spread of the virus rests with enforced a curfew, put a behave it like we have never things: washing and working less days. us as ordinary citizens. complete lockdown on all grown up; we are like our own sanitizing our hands. The government has to be We have to do our part and gatherings but instead, like children. On another level, maybe it careful how it hands out cash make sure that others do you said in your editorial, he The spread of the COVID- is time to put a check on those assistance whether it be to theirs, like making sure those has left it up to us to act in a 19 is now all up to us. We international flights coming vendors, farmers, fisherfolk or who stand behind you in a responsible manner. The have to keep who we come into SVG. who have you. This could well line strand 3 to six feet away holidays on Friday and into contact with down a bare Maybe also, government be abused as I know it has from you. Monday last, were like a dry minimum. Even our relatives and the private sector could been in the first round with Just thinking ‘aloud’. run to see how well we would we have to forego seeing as think of rotating their some people who became respond without some law regularly as we used to if we workers… putting in a shift vendors overnight. Charles - Edinboro hanging over our heads. It want them to be safe. We system. And those who can All in all Mr. Editor, as was a test to see how well we have to wear our masks and work from home should be much as the responsibility of can respond on our own. forget all the talk otherwise, encouraged to do so. I know treating the COVID-19 and We can’t be speaking of setting certain protocols in

Debt and the Budget - Part 1 IN MID-NOVEMBER that, but would like to approach. This has two and to make sure a debt portfolio and the government sought know more. How does very obvious built-in resources to repay such adherence to various and received this borrowing authority advantages to our debt be identified during laws and regulations. A authorization to issue fit into our National Debt economy. One, it allows this process. All debt management policy $125 million in debt. Plan? As we get ready for those of us with funds disclosure requirements should improve the Most news reports the 2021 Budget, will we available for over the life of the bond quality of decisions, suggested it was just get a chance to review investment/savings to and maintaining the articulate policy goals, simply “authorization to and comment on such a earn a fixed and reliable accounting through the provide guidelines for the borrow”. I am fine with plan? Will every day interest income. The life of the bonds are also structure of debt Vincentians be second and equally as critical components of issuance, and given a chance to important is the this process. demonstrate a invest in our opportunity for us to Before we consider commitment to long-term Agriculture public support projects that entering or creating an capital and financial markets that a infrastructure? affect our daily lives, like active local bond market planning. government is well The use of roads, hospitals, a new for national Now here is the managed and, therefore, debt financing to deep water harbour and infrastructure projects difficult part. Since any is likely to meet its debt deserved fund the cost of schools. Debt financing of we must design an active debt issued by the obligations in a timely local public infrastructure is a debt management plan. government is backed by manner. Part 2 next infrastructure is valuable strategy for our What is a Debt the full faith and credit week. more a critical governments to use to Management Plan? It is of the country and is component of a spread the cost of a set of policies and binding on the Horatio normal significant long term written guidelines, government, our debt attention functioning assets, over their useful allowances, and plan should receive bi- government, and life. requirements that guide partisan support in WE DID not pay enough one that we It is important, the debt issuance parliament. Such support attention to our agriculture. should be however, to involve all practices of the state, for a debt management That is indeed an utilizing in a stakeholders in the including the issuance policy signals to rating understatement! And all of us more structured decision to issue debt process, management of agencies and the capital * Has the who understand the history of Ganja Amnesty our country are blameable, if kicked in? If it we cannot show that we had hasn’t, when can we made identifiable conscientious Surviving amidst the challenging times expect it to be efforts which would have enacted? enhanced the staving off, the IT IS WITHOUT doubt that we how devastating these rise above these challenges, we * Will the 2021 prevention, of the crippling Budget detail how malaise which is suffocating us are facing challenging times, aforementioned challenges will will survive with the help of characterized by COVID-19 be. Thus, it is for us to adjust the Lord. that $125 million, today. which we got In this responsibility, the and dengue, both of which will our minds as to what is needed It is time to serve the Lord be with us for some time, and in surviving these challenging and put him in our homes, our permission to ULP headed by Ralph borrow/raise, will be Gonsalves are doubly the possibility of an explosive times. lives and by extension our eruption of La Soufriere. While, we recognize that it nation. Let us be positive and spent? blameable, for it was on their * Is government promise in 2001 that they were Surviving amidst these will be hard, we must take on have the Lord as our captain so considering giving going to revitalize agriculture challenges is what is required board the words of the national that we can effectively survive which, to a large degree, and while that is hard, it is anthem, “Whatever the future these many challenges facing those frontline influenced the overwhelming possible. brings our faith will see us our nation. God bless SVG. workers in the support they had from the This is not time to play through”. COVID-19 people. politics and ascribe blame. If In these times it takes faith Kennard King challenge a bonus of Had the ULP — Ralph we have to survive, we have to to survive… sorts? Gonsalves, the ODD, Renwick unite in our effort to ensure not faith in * What’s this with Rose, WINFA and others, been that protocols are followed, that men but faith all those armed faithful to those seemingly we keep a tidy environment in God. I call police walking sincere promises, the last two and most importantly, that we upon us as a around the place, decades could have been more turn our eyes heavenward. It is people to look including at the productive for St. Vincent and time for a spiritual healing. to Him as beaches? Is it a the Grenadines, and we would Surviving would require Psalms 121 case of shoot and certainly have been in a adjustments. We recognize encourages us then ask questions? stronger position now to cope that there would be financial to look to ‘the * Would with the COVID-19 pandemic problems, thus an adjustment hills from government and the related issues. in our lifestyle and spending is whence consider an ease on We have to rebuild the necessary. cometh our the rate of VAT to agriculture sector! The future is in God’s hand. help’. help out through these hard times? LeRoy Providence None of us knows how long and Yes, we will 8. THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Views The situation in the Middle East, Deepening COVID- 19 including the Palestinian Question Crisis in SVG Introduction THE UPSURGE in the number of COVID- ON TUESDAY JANUARY 26TH, 2021, 19 cases in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is cause for concern. What is Prime Minister Dr Hon Ralph Gonsalves to provide the public with timely and more troubling is the large number of delivered an address at a meeting of the adequate information about the state Vincentians who have contracted the United Nations Security Council (2016). of the pandemic in St. Vincent and the virus and do not have a recent travel convened to discuss the situation in the The critical socio-economic and Grenadines. This, we hope will instil history, and the reluctance of the Middle East. In it, he outlined the security situation in Palestine, as well confidence in the populace as it relates government to declare that there is position of this country on the Israeli- as the attendant humanitarian to information sharing. Palestinian conflict and underscored our consequences, demand urgent community spread of the coronavirus. commitment to a viable peace process, attention. As Israel’s thirteen-year The government has clearly Excerpts of Dr Friday’s Address to the that would result in a lasting solution to blockade continues to deprive millions demonstrated that it does not have an Nation this long-standing conflict. Saint Vincent of Palestinians living in the Gaza strip effective plan to manage the spread of the coronavirus. and the Grenadines has begun the of their fundamental rights, the Dr Friday is consistent whenever he We are in a crisis. It would appear second year of the 2-year term as a non- COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated speaks to the COVID-19 situation in that the situation is overwhelming for permanent member of the United the hardship experienced by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The the government. This is demonstrated Nations Security Council which ends in Palestinian people. We therefore call following are excerpts from his by the reactive decisions which are December of this year, 2021. Below is for the immediate lifting of the address to the nation last year. Let us made by the government. Dr Friday, the full text of the statement delivered blockade, and all forms of coercion reflect on what was said; by Dr Gonsalves, also in his capacity as President of the New Democratic against the Palestinians. The “This means we must do all we can Minister of Foreign Affairs. Party and Leader of the Opposition, unprecedented funding shortfall for to protect our people. This requires has offered advice on numerous the United Nations Relief and Works closing our borders for a while by “Mr. President: occasions to the government as to the Agency (UNRWA), has caused suspending all arrivals at our airports measures that can be implemented to significant decrease in the vital and seaports, except essential I thank His Excellency Mr. Ali services provided to Palestinian curb the spread of the virus, but his travellers, including nationals and Nafti, Minister of State for Minister of refugees across neighboring countries advice has been ignored. However, commerce. We would then review the Foreign Affairs of the Republic of including Lebanon and Syria. In this Vincentians were given two (2) public decision as conditions change. Taking Tunisia, for convening today’s regard, we reiterate our calls to the holidays, Friday 22nd and Monday this action now will give us the best important Open Debate. Thanks, also, international community for increased 25th January. What was the main chance of avoiding more cases of to the briefers for their informative assistance to be distributed swiftly to objective of the holidays? Was it to COVID-19 in SVG and of reducing the remarks. In addition, I wish Mr. Tor those in need. give our health personnel time to rest risk of an outbreak that may Wennesland, the Special Coordinator Further, we remind Israel, as the and reflect as was suggested? We hope overburden our fragile healthcare of the Middle East Peace Process1, occupying power, of its legal that those days were used to do system. The situation as it is now is every success in advancing the peace responsibility to provide medical extensive contact tracing and creating unacceptable risks to the process and sustaining it to a supplies and COVID-19 vaccinations systematic testing by the Ministry of health and safety of our people. It is successful conclusion, in accordance to Palestinians living in the West Health. better to be safe than sorry. with his mandate. Bank and Gaza. While vaccine We recall last year that As the situation stands, with all The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian nationalism can produce short-term spokespersons for the government airports and some seaports open, and conflict can only be solved through results at a domestic level, no country were boasting that they were doing with very limited testing for the direct peace negotiations. To this end, will be safe from COVID-19 until better in managing the coronavirus disease being done, the only we reaffirm the importance of the every country and everyone is safe. We than any other member of the Middle East Quartet and the regional reasonable measure that can protect acknowledge the efforts of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean players in promoting effective dialogue the public is to quarantine all arrivals Palestinian Authority to secure as States (OECS), as if it were a and compromise to settle the long- into the country, wherever they come many vaccines as possible, including competition. Today, the figures do not standing differences between Israel from. Every country in the world now through the COVAX facility. We take reveal that. As of 26th January, St. and Palestine, with the support of this opportunity to encourage has COVID-19. That is, after all, why Vincent and the Grenadines had the international partners. In an effort to international support for the efforts of it is called a global pandemic. So, all highest number of active COVID-19 address the impasse between the the Palestinian Authority in securing arrivals from any country must be cases, 631, in the OECS; St. Lucia had parties, we echo President Abbas’ call vaccines and we call for further considered to be potential carriers of 436; Grenada had 11; Dominica had 8; on the United Nations to convene in support for the COVAX facility. When the virus and must be handled as Antigua had 22; and St. Kitts had 2. early 2021 an international conference vaccines do arrive for use in Palestine, such. All of these islands with the exception to launch a genuine peace process. In the unimpeded and quick passage Further, the present system of in- of St. Vincent and the Grenadines addition, honouring the Palestinian through Israeli checkpoints would be home isolation or self-regulated have implemented stringent measures peoples’ long held quest for self- critical to allow for distribution of quarantine is dangerous, because it is to control the spread of the determination and statehood by vaccines without further delay. unenforceable. Even when the coronavirus. revisiting the question of full Before closing, I will turn to the authorities seize the passports of Further, what is the current membership at the United Nations is internal political situation in people on arrival, as is being done in positivity rate from recent tests? The a matter that is long overdue, and an Palestine. Saint Vincent and the some cases; this cannot guarantee system is stretched to the limit. How essential component of a lasting Two- Grenadines commends the ongoing compliance with the quarantine are they managing to isolate the State Solution in the drive for a efforts of the Palestinian people to requirements. And a guarantee of increasing number of active cases? We sustainable peace in the Middle East. advance democracy in a mature and compliance not merely a likelihood is have heard and read stories of Peace and security within well-defined well-organised manner. We welcome what is required in the present internationally acceptable borders for individuals who have had problems in the announcement by President circumstances. We simply must Israel and Palestine are central finding facilities to isolate. For Mahmoud Abbas to hold the ensure that all persons observe the requisites for any lasting settlement. instance, it was reported in one of our parliamentary elections on 22nd May, quarantine fully. The stakes are Saint Vincent and the Grenadines weekly newspapers on the weekend of presidential elections on 31st July and simply too high to have it otherwise. remains deeply concerned about the the Palestinian National Council January 22nd, of a young lady who This calls for a government-operated critical situation in the Occupied elections on 31st August. tested positive for the coronavirus and isolation facility to house all new Palestinian Territory as a result of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines did not have anywhere to go and arrivals for the 14-day quarantine unlawful measures and practices by remains firmly supportive of the isolate, and was forced to sleep on the period. It is the only way to protect Israeli authorities. In this connection, Middle East Peace Process, within the compound of a school before she was the public from potential harm and we reiterate that all settlement framework of international law. We placed in a facility. Another pertinent prevent the spread of the virus in our activities, including the recently continue to support all efforts towards question: How are they managing country.” announced plans to build 800 housing a two-state solution, on the basis of contact tracing for so many new cases The New Democratic Party units in the West Bank, as well as the pre-1967 borders, with Jerusalem that grow more every day? We need continues to urge Vincentians to act tenders for construction of a new as the capital of both states. And in answers. People are scared and responsible, remain on high alert and settlement of over 2,500 housing units, order to achieve this, we need to confused. And the government do all that is possible to prevent the violate international law. We are also facilitate dialogue between Israel and appears to be paralyzed, unable to act further spread of the virus. Remember concerned about reports of settler Palestine. Let’s get this process on the decisively and effectively. to continue to practice the basics, wear violence against Palestinians, road urgently! This spike in the number of cases face masks, maintain social distance including children and we call for Thank you!” has heightened public concern about when interacting with the public, adherence to the provisions of the the situation. The government needs avoid large crowds where possible, and Fourth Geneva Convention, and 1 Recently appointed Special to act now and introduce measures to relevant UN resolutions, including wash hands regularly as recommended Coordinator for the Middle East Peace control the spread of the virus. The Security Council resolution 2334 by the World Health Organization.” Process (replacing Nikolai Mlladenov) government also has a responsibility THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 9. V Views Wounds and Wisdom The Western Media: Guilty of extreme bias THE ESTABLISHMENT MEDIA was horrified fraud had “Turn your wounds into wisdom.” Oprah uncertain. when the ‘Stop the Steal’ mob stormed the come from. Winfrey (born 1954) - American talk We are all US Capitol on January 6, and the sentence When show host, television producer, actress, prone to was swift: President Donald Trump, with Secretary of author, and philanthropist. hurts, his baseless fraud allegations and refusal State Mike pains, to concede defeat, was responsible for the Pompeo stood by the administration in IT IS NATURAL FOR US to seek to avoid mayhem. refusing to concede defeat, corporate and disappointments. These are Corporate outlets have summarily journalists reminded readers of the lack pain at all costs. However, as best we try, inevitable. However, we gain assurance denounced Trump’s bogus claims of vote of evidence surrounding the fraud we will all periodically experience physical and confidence that such challenges do fraud, though for years they have allegations. Yet when Pompeo declared and/or emotional pain. Pain is not all bad. not last forever. These, too, will past. faithfully echoed similarly spurious the Venezuelan elections ‘a fraud and a On reflection we realise that some of our The aftermath of the tragic moment will accusations made about elections held sham,’ major outlets uncritically echoed most valuable life lessons are learned provide opportunities for growth and by official enemies. But the media make the equally baseless official claim. from painful experiences. In many the accumulation of wisdom that is so no effort to account for years of Similarly, Trump’s allegations that instances these may occur as a result of very often disguised as a “bad hypocrisy and double standards. his victory was stolen were immediately willful actions of others or through some situation”. Venezuela’s December 6 picked apart as ‘desperate’ by the New form of accident or disease. Whatever the Wayne Walter Dyer (1940-2015), the parliamentary election offers an York Times and Washington Post, but source of the pain we can gain strength to instructive case study, with corporate Trump officials can routinely claim that American self-help and spiritual author journalists unquestioningly repeating Maduro ‘stole’ the 2018 election with no cope with and to overcome the trauma as and motivational speaker, once said, Trump officials’ unsubstantiated dissent from corporate journalists. we reflect of the challenge that the five “When you change the way you look at allegations of ‘fraud’ there, at the same The Trump administration began words in the introductory quotation from things, the way things look change.” time that they debunked Trump’s spinning its fraud stories in Venezuela Oprah Winfrey provide: “Turn your wounds This thought is pregnant with wisdom. virtually identical claims vis-a-vis the and at home long before polls opened in into wisdom.” So very often, the greatest obstructions US election. And the right-wing violence either country. But in the US, Trump Most of us will admit that during the in our life turn out to be great blessings that was rightly portrayed as a threat was confronted about the lack of periods when we are going through in disguise. We have the capacity, the to democracy in the US was heartily evidence surrounding his pre-election various struggles in life we tend not to potential, to turn wounds into wisdom endorsed as a democratic campaign in claims of mail-in vote irregularities. In appreciate their value. A sole Venezuela, where it served contrast, no one in the corporate media once we create and develop the mindset Washington’s foreign policy goals. batted an eye when the administration breadwinner who receives a notice that that many successes have their The media’s uncritical echoing of pre-emptively declared that the she will shortly be laid off may not foundation on failure and fraud allegations is in turn used to Venezuelan elections would be understand or appreciate why such an disappointments … if we look at them justify the continuation of Washington’s fraudulent. unfortunate situation should occur at objectively and with the intention of regime-change policies. Early signs this critical juncture of her life. using them for growth and point to this dynamic continuing in full Automatically rejected elections However, this most unfortunate development. force under the new Biden situation may give rise to her reviewing If the truth be told, many of the administration. Like Trump’s, Venezuelan opposition the plans that she had conjured up to claims of electoral fraud can be easily individuals who we regard as being Who needs ‘evidence’? start her business some time earlier. successful businessmen (not gender debunked. The 2013 contest, in which She knows that there will be challenges President Maduro was elected for the specific) and politicians may have failed On December 5, 2020, NPR allowed first time after Chavez’s death, was in keeping abreast with the payment of multiple times. But they were not opposition politician Juan Guaidó to followed by violent efforts to challenge some bills. She understands that she deterred. They pressed on. Today, claim to be the rightful president of the results, leaving eight people dead. may have to adjust her priorities and their stories and testimonies remind us Venezuela ‘because Maduro’s 2018 Western outlets chose to echo the become more frugal with her that if we are focused on being the best reelection was rigged’–no evidence opposition’s fraud claims, championed expenditure. She appreciates that the that we can be, it is so very important necessary. by then-Secretary of State John Kerry, early days of her entrepreneurial that we dismantle the shackles of self- Venezuela’s parliamentary elections even though all the ‘evidence,’ much venture will be fraught with challenges doubt, pity, and fear of failure. We do on December 6 followed a familiar like Trump’s, was easily dismissed by pattern: The US-backed opposition and frustrations as she develops her have the capacity, with God’s help, to credible sources. market for the products and/or services boycotted the vote, and the ruling US government and corporate media turn our greatest failure and darkest United Socialist Party (PSUV) and backing for the Venezuelan opposition that she must now provide. However, moment into something that can make allies won an overwhelming majority. in its refusal to acknowledge defeat she is not deterred. She knows that it a difference to our lives and the lives of Just like in President Nicolás Maduro’s paved the way for deadly street violence is possible to turn her wounds into those around us. Abraham Lincoln 2018 reelection, opposition candidates that was eerily reminiscent of the far- wisdom. She knows that, with God’s (1809-1865) is a classic example of an failed to counter their hardline sectors’ right MAGA mobs, who are convinced help, she can proceed along the detour individual whose life was fraught with calls for abstention, and the government that Trump’s ‘landslide victory’ was and find great success at the end of her failures, heartbreak, and setbacks but raked in some two-thirds of the vote, stolen. journey. albeit with a depressed turnout. Armed and ready with the ‘fraud’ persisted to accomplish great feats. He Western media coverage also hit the Many of this column’s readers have was unsuccessful in his attempts to be epithet, establishment journalists could gone through adversity and can testify usual notes, with outlets taking their disqualify all Venezuelan elections, elected as a state legislature in 1832. cue from the US State Department and without the slightest interest in that they have learned a lot from the One year later his business failed. His Venezuela’s self-proclaimed ‘interim experience. Some may have struggled examining the substance behind the sweetheart died in 1835 and he suffered president,’ Juan Guaidó, in declaring allegations. The 2013 violence returned in a relationship, fighting feverishly to from a nervous breakdown the following the internationally observed process a in much bigger and deadlier keep it alive, only to see it vaporise. year. He failed in attempts to be ‘fraud.’ incarnations in 2014 and 2017. The Others may have lost the function of a elected as House Speaker in 1838. In ‘Guaidó and his allies declined to Western press was happy to fall in line part of their body as a result of a 1843 he failed in his attempts to be seek reelection, saying they didn’t trust behind the State Department, the authoritarian Maduro to hold a fair disease or an accident. For them, life nominated to Congress. He experienced automatically labelling violent efforts to will never be the same. But they vote,’ the Washington Post noted, overthrow the Venezuelan government similar failures when he attempted to throwing in a smear against imbibe the wisdom that even though be elected as a senator to represent as a defence of ‘democracy’. The words this may appear to be a setback, there Venezuela’s head of state for good ‘coup attempt,’ which immediately made Illinois in 1854 and 1858. However, he measure. is wisdom in understanding and headlines and were subject of debate was not deterred. He persisted and was Apart from the negative portrayal of after the Capitol assault has been appreciating that there is still so much inaugurated as the 16th President of Venezuelan reality, reporters made no to be thankful for and that life is still so notoriously absent from the Venezuela the United States of America in 1860. effort to explain how Venezuela’s voting coverage. very beautiful. Yet others may have Today, he is still regarded as one of system works (and why vote rigging Beyond endorsing right-wing violence ventured forth to start a new business America’s greatest presidents. would be very far from straightforward), in Venezuela, the baseless claims also only to discover that they did not have a much less what this ‘fraud’ consisted of. served to justify Washington’s violence There is no need to look at our This stance is hardly new, with market or the cash flows to keep it failures, foibles, shortcomings, and against the Venezuelan people. Since going. The business failed. But they coverage looking like a rerun of Maduro’s 2018 victory, deadly sanctions disappointments with shame, guilt, previous Venezuelan elections, most know that failure is not final. resentment, or regret. We too often have been justified by his second term Hopefully, in many such cases, it is recently the 2018 presidential election, being dubbed by Reuters as ‘widely hold ourselves back when things may which the Trump administration illegitimate’, or his reelection considered possible to regroup and to try again. not have turned out the way that we preemptively refused to recognize This time, having gained insights and ‘fraudulent’ by Guardian. planned them; when life’s months in advance, with unanimous wisdom from their earlier venture, they But in the end, the imperial chickens disappointments and tragedies would support from politicians and corporate press on determined to achieve their came home to roost. Regardless of have inflicted deep wounds on our ego media pundits of all political stripes. noble dream. They appreciate the pearl The latest round of reporting on whether Trump is impeached or not, and bruised our pride. However, we any semblance of impartiality from the of wisdom that is encapsulated in the Venezuela stood in stark contrast with gain strength from Kahlil Gibran (1883- corporate media has been shattered. statement that “sometimes our biggest the media’s almost instantaneous 1931), the American-Lebanese writer, dismantling of the domestic ‘fraud’ Long used to whitewashing right-wing failure, sets us up for our greatest mobs and baselessly crying ‘fraud’ when success.” visual artist, and poet, when he notes, accusations hurled by Trump and his “Out of suffering have emerged the allies about the US’s 2020 presidential it favoured US interests, Western The scenarios described in the pundits got a small, but bitter taste of strongest souls; the most massive vote. While conservative outlets preceding paragraphs may be very real afforded the president some leeway, their own medicine. to some readers. Some may have gone characters are seared with scars.” Indeed, it is possible to turn our scars centrist and liberal corporate journalists through such experiences. Others may were steadfast in fact-checking some Most of this piece was taken from the be presently going through these into stars and our wounds into wisdom. described as Trump’s ‘baseless’ claims, media outlet FAIR- Fair and Accuracy situations. We understand and ‘torrent of falsehoods’ or ‘false claims of in Reporting. appreciate that life will periodically Send comments, criticisms & vote fraud’. Venezuela observers would suggestions to be forgiven for wondering where this Send comments, criticisms & present us with problems and suggestions to [email protected] challenges. Life is fragile and [email protected] sudden quest for ‘evidence’ of electoral 10. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Views/Regional Abolish VAT now !!!!! EVEN BEFORE Covid-19, VAT was sucking the lifeblood Around the world, governments have given According to the Leader of SVG Green Party, out of poor households, killing businesses and our businesses and their people tax breaks and reduced Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), economy. The high rate of VAT has caused many taxes, because they know that their people are MSc, MBA, it is clear that too much revenue is businesses to record their lowest levels of sales in over suffering under Covid-19 and they care about their being given away in tax and customs duty 40 years, forcing them to close and put their employees people. In 2020, the UK government introduced a exemptions to Taiwan and the super-rich in on the breadline. In addition, VAT has decimated the whole raft of tax cuts, including cutting VAT, to help Mustique and Canouan. This creates a huge rural economy. businesses and their people. They showed imbalance that is not sustainable. The tax system is About 90% of the revenue collected by the compassion to support businesses and their people. not fair. incompetent ULP government is from taxes and SVG Green Party is telling Gonsalves to show The tax environment in SVG needs to be fines imposed upon businesses and our people. In compassion to businesses and our people and modernised to encourage and support small this extra hard time of Covid-19, government must abolish VAT now. Businesses and people are businesses. Small businesses are the beating heart reduce the tax burden on businesses and our people, suffering even more than usual in this weak of modern economies, so we must support them, to help reduce the suffering. economy that has been decimated by ULP regime especially in this difficult period, so that they can Even before Covid-19, SVG had high rates of financial and economic incompetence. survive and flourish and stimulate economic growth. poverty and unemployment and too many Any shortfall the SVG Treasury may experience This is vital for future economic success and households had no mains water and electricity. as a result of abolishing VAT can more than be controlling the country’s huge amount of debt. Even before Covid-19, many, many households could made up taxing Taiwan as it relates to that According to the Leader of SVG Green not feed their families adequately. country’s use of our fishing licence, and the super- Party, Warrant Officer Ivan Bertie O’Neal BSc The ULP regime must show compassion and rich in Mustique and Canouan. It makes no sense to (Hons), MSc, MBA, a Green Government would abolish VAT now. It would be cruel and heartless continue to let Taiwan, and the super-rich in show compassion and empathy to businesses and not to. Now, more than ever, every dollar Mustique and Canouan get away with not paying our people by abolishing the VAT. We need to households have must be able to go a bit further to hundreds of millions of dollars in tax. Vincentians reduce the pressure on our people. keep their family safe from Covid-19. are dying! We must give hope to the next generation of Vincentians by creating a strong economy and thousands of new jobs. Cutting VAT will help „Help!!!‰ cry LIAT ex-workers achieve this.

AS THIS COUNTRY In response, the were terminated late last was made redundant; welcomed the inaugural Government of Antigua year while the airline weeks after the flight on Thursday 21st and Barbuda, which has entered a court- controversial temporary January of a newly taken ‘ownership’ of the sanctioned restructuring layoff deadline had administered LIAT newly administered process, under the expired. service, local employees LIAT, has committed to supervision of an At the time of the and those in the wider make a special plea to all administrator, as the layoffs and terminations, region of LIAT in its regional governments, airline moved to avoid LIAT was majority- original configuration through the liquidation. owned by four CARICOM have again made public Administrator appointed The termination of shareholder appeals (online) to by the Court under the workers began effectively governments, Antigua regional governments for amended Bankruptcy on April 1, 2020, when and Barbuda, Barbados, financial help. law, to make payments to over 90 per cent of LIAT Dominica and St. Vincent It is reported that The UWI, Mona campus, has This, as the workers their nationals, after staff was temporarily and the Grenadines. solicited the assistance of the Jamaican continue to wait on negotiations with the laid off, without being That has since constabulary with its investigation into the fake millions of dollars owing several unions that given proper notice and changed with Barbados certificates scheme. to them for salaries, represented the LIAT pay. and St. Vincent and the pensions and now workers. In October 2020, about Grenadines agreeing to severance pay. Hundreds of workers 90 per cent of the total hand over their shares to UWI, Mona probing staff, including pilots, Antigua and Barbuda. flight attendants, The workers, noting engineers and ground that LIAT was publicly sale of certificates support personnel, touted as an essential service vital to ensuring THE UNIVERSITY of the West Indies (The UWI), Mona, Jamaica, says it is currently The inaugural flight regional connectivity, said, “The shocking and investigating the sale of certificates purporting to of a newly troubling reality now is be undergraduate and post graduate degrees administered LIAT that these former conferred by the institution. touches down at the employees have not The University has condemned the actions of Argyle International received any monies those involved, adding that the matter is quite Airport on Thursday legally due to them, concerning. 21st January, 2021. inclusive of severance (Facebook photo) “We wish to advise employers, educational entitlements despite institutions and all others concerned to be vigilant numerous pleas to those and on the alert for these non-genuine who are responsible.” documents,” a statement from The UWI read. The former staff It has also advised those who come into members are pleading possession of the counterfeit documents to report with all across the region the matter to the Fraud Unit of the Jamaica to help them get their message spread Constabulary Force. everywhere. It noted that all certificates conferred by the And Barbados Today University have security features to guarantee reported that people on authenticity. social media have been “We encourage any organisation in doubt of the responding to the ex- legitimacy of degrees or certificates to contact our workers’ cry. Examinations Sections for verification of same,” One reader declared the statement continued. “this is an absolute In related news, reports are that the Caribbean disgrace” with another Examination Council (CXC) has also mounted an describing the treatment investigation into a fraudulent online scheme, as shameful on the offering fake passes/certificates for its governments involved. examinations. A LIAT employee CXC officials are reported to have said that among those awaiting they were alerted to the scheme by Facebook posts some kind of settlement from a user advertising certificates from The UWI, declared that she was CXC and the HEART NSTA Trust. finding life difficult. The user was said to be using the name Anny (Sources: Barbados Campbell. (Source: Jamaica Observer, Today, Antigua News nationwideradiojm.com) Room) THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 11. V People Randy D gets his send off College in Canada, 1973. Randy D, Boyea said, was instrumental in the formation of a Vincy Student Group at Humber. He recalled the purchase of a car for $150.00 which served as the hub of the group. That vehicle was sold for $50, having malfunctioned on the way to an Aretha Franklyn special, a Ferrand ‘Randy-D’ function to which Boyea Dopwell (May 1951 - and Randy D had special January 2021) fittingly passes from Capitol with microphone in Records. hand. The account of the circumstances leading up FERRAND DOPWELL was to the sale evoked much Randy D’s siblings say a last farewell. laid to rest at the laughter. Boyea and Kingstown Cemetery last Randy D had rented Below: Pall Bearers – Eulogist Keith Boyea left Tuesday January 26, and suits for the function, but front – take Randy D out of the Cathedral after the calls are already echoing following the car’s service. for his further recognition. Randy D with his only child, Dr. Fadiyla “Fae” malfunction they were Dopwell Louis-Obike, on her wedding day, Dec. Dopwell, popularly stranded. The value of known as Randy D, was 31, 2011. (Photo used with the approval of Fern the car was reduced by Dopwell) born May 15, 1951. The $25 which had to be used man regarded as one of to pay the tow fee. The this country’s most reminder was spent on a profound music analyst combination of KFC and Father’s Daughter: passed away four months beer taken home on a short of his 70th train. birthday. Boyea testified to A Tribute Keith Boyea, one of Randy’s sense of Friday, January 15, 2021 21:05 his diverse range of close brotherhood. He recalled associates among who accompanying Randy D IT IS OBVIOUSLY with great sadness that I were persons of the to an interview for a job calibre of Ellsworth speak to you today. As the only child of my father, at Capitol Records. When the love he gave to me was singular and bountiful. ‘Shake’ Keane, Robert Randy D returned to the And as I said to him on his last day, no one could ‘Patches’ Knights, Elroy taxi, Boyea was taken have loved him more than I did. As you can tell, I ‘Blondie Bird’ Boyde, in aback when Randy connected with the 1979 band Clymax, Douglas de inherited the ability to love with a passion and delivering the Eulogy, announced that in outfit which brought Freitas of Nice Radio and unconditionally. Daddy exhibited this said that they were addition to securing a job glory to the nation and arranger Frankie characteristic in all facets of his life. school mates at the St. for himself, he had also against whom Randy McIntosh. As such, it goes without saying that no one has Vincent Grammar School secured one for Boyea. would have competed, Palmer testified that loved you all as my father had. He devoted his life and later at Humber were also hand . Randy’s exposure to to our country and Vincentian people as a whole. A wide representation Entertainers Alston music served as the basis He respected and loved the beauty of the land and ‘Becket’ Cyrus, Grantley for the repertoire which the talent and culture of our people. Randy D would go on ‘Ipa’ Constance., the group Clymax He built his career trying to showcase our Kenneth ‘Scakes’ established early in its country and all it has to offer to the world. to establish himself as a Although his grandsons and I are his direct national broadcasting Alleyene showed their existence. (WKA) legacy, you all are a part of Daddy’s legacy. and cultural icon. His respects. Dougie Defreitas, Therefore, I would be remiss if I did not take the stint at Capitol Records Bernard Joseph owner of Nice Radio, the opportunity to encourage you to continue to show exposed him to a variety represented the media last place where Randy the world what our country has to offer. You are of genre, and as Boyea and Dexter Rose D worked, described beautiful and that showed through the love and indicated, Randy D had a Dopwell’s wide family Randy D as an “unselfish support you gave to my Dad and to me, if we have song for every mood. base. broadcasting giant,” who met. The attendance at the Victoria forged a formidable disc Your posts and comments are a testimony to burial ceremony was Alexander/Ghent jockey team with fellow who he is and the strength of his character. So, as reduced owing to journeyed from broadcaster Earl ‘Capp’ I leave you today with a scripture that sums up restriction imposed by Troumaca to attend the Stephens. my father’s journey and the blessings that are to the lingering Covid service. She spent time McIntosh led an come, I thank you once again for the love and situation. But this did with the Dopwell family ensemble in a jazzy support you gave to Randy D, the King of Radio, not deter a varied and when school went on interpretation of Pat the host of Vibes Caribbean, a son, a brother, an diverse attendance. holidays and has Prescod’s ‘Right Hand of uncle, a friend, and most importantly my Daddy. East Kingstown’s maintained that God.’ “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good Alston Becket Cyrus parliamentary connection with the In house, a musical representative Fitz family. tribute was rendered by fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the and Ainsley Primus faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown (Dynamites Calypso Bramble was present. “He was a jovial, all the band X-A-dus and people man,” Ghent the Graduates Calypso of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Tent) representatives of Footballers, the likes judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me the entertainer of Dorian Phillips, indicated. Tent, to a man who was only, but unto all them also that love his fraternity many of who Raultie Lowe, Tyrone Virtually, tributes described as a many of appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 KJV have much for which to ‘Fleety’ Grant, Gideon came from Garfield the people, a ghetto Please stay blessed and eh, “Keep the vibes thank Randy D. ‘Ragga’ Horne, many Palmer of the musical man.” (WKA) alive”. 12. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Volcano Feature Effusive eruption continues Professor Richard Robertson and drone Pilot Rommel De Freitas have combined to do some much needed and dramatic photographing of La Soufriere in its current state. (Facebook photos)

The steam and sulphur combine to create a gas that is deadly to vegetation as seen in the foreground of the photo.

(mainly the northern third of Station was completed by mainland St. Vincent) reported Instrumentation Engineer Lloyd Both domes – the old and the new emit steam, with the new one being much (The UWO SRC) experiencing a very strong odor of Lynch and the Electronics Team. A more active in this regard. sulphur, intensifying as per the GPS monitoring station was also change of direction of the wind. installed at Richmond Vale. Stories by GLORIAH… (volcano) continued quietly. As it cleared, views of the volcano Professor Richard Robertson of The On Saturday 23rd January, the revealed that the vegetation was UWI Seismic Research Centre, and Dr. Most of this country’s population volcano continued to exude magma continually being damaged — some say Thomas Christopher of the Montserrat remained in their homes on Friday 22nd and, from the Belmont Observatory, burnt - by acidic gases constantly Volcano Observatory, took the and Monday 25th January, two public steam could still be seen rising from creeping downslope. opportunity, last week, to brief holidays granted for the purpose of the crater. Amidst all this activity, work on the preservation of the public health, but the Persons living close to the volcano, installation of the Fancy Seismic Continued on Page 13. effusive eruption of La Soufriere especially those in the Red Zone It was not a Lahar ACCORDING TO began to flow, cutting a path the issue. WWW.REUTERS.COM, through the rocks. “What “Lahar is an Indonesian word As the action proceeded, the happened is for the mud slurries that are passage of water significantly something formed from volcanic ash and picked up momentum to the that happens debris.” point where, within two with all the They are mostly produced minutes of the four-plus- river systems by intense rainfall pushing minute video, it had turned in St. debris down the slopes of a into a raging passage of water Vincent; volcano after an eruption. that clearly carried along when you They are also triggered by debris, as supported by visible have heavy earthquakes and steam portions of vegetation. rain in the explosions after crater lakes It was clearly raining, but mountains, are disrupted. Lahars, in what would have instilled where we say spite of their heavy, concrete- concern to a viewer who was locally ‘the like consistency, can build up not accustomed to such a river come down’. It gets A extract from the video that purported to show a lahar flow to fast-flowing speeds. sight, was the tremendous muddy, there’s a lot more emanating from La Soufriere. A video which surfaced here sound of rushing water, and sediment in it and it flows on social media around the rocks hitting against each much faster. It may or may remobilization of volcanic volcanic material, it was not third week of January, 2021 other. not be associated with some material often associated with from any recent volcanic caused many to believe that a The UWI Seismic Research landslides that happens higher an active eruption or recent activity. “To call it that would lahar had been making its way Centre’s Facebook page called up and brings the material eruption,” he said, adding, “It’s have been giving the down the Walabou River, in the assumption, “fake news”. down,” Professor Robertson a term that came from impression that the current the north western side of the During the ‘Soufriere Today’ said as he began his Indonesia and is usually eruption that has its hazards country. programme hosted by the UWI explanation. associated with recent confined to the crater rim and The video showed a stony SRC, geologist Professor He went on to clarify that. activity.” the crater itself, that the river bed in a tropical Richard Robertson sought to “Lahars or mudflows is a term He posited that even though hazards had somehow gotten environment over which water put a proper perspective on that refers to the it was remobilization of outside, and it hasn’t.” THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 13. V Opinion La Soufriere, again! A North Leeward perspective

BEFORE I FOCUS ON THE INEVITABLE – awakened the volcano to rumble its La Soufriere – permit me to preface the temper and tumultuous attitude to fix focus with this poem entitled La the sinners - penalizing them for their Soufriere, which I wrote sometime in vile behavior. 2019. Is it déjà vu? From my veranda, I watch him with a stare The eruption of 1979 is stuck in my As if he can’t smash ants. mind like a tale from a horror movie. Wait till he gets vex Yes, I easily recall people of my He will boom! community grabbing whatever little Unleashing its fury; they could as they prepared to get out scaring bandits, persecutors, judges, of harm’s way. I recall the fireballs of and juries. ash and an imminent threat of lava. It is a harsh but the most telling When he gets angry memory in my lifetime. Foot will scatter Once again, in 2021, minds race Running for cover. with panic; no one wants to relive the experience of 1979 when La Soufriere When he gets angry erupted! Mouth will utter From the community where I reside, Asking someone to help me. I have a perfect view of the unpredictable volcano. It spreads When he gets angry larger than Gonsalves - the so-called I will politely ask La Soufriere World Boss. I can see a drastic change Please, have compassion on the lame, from green vegetation to brown elderly, and suckling babes. colourization on the summit of La Soufriere. Every so often, I look at the assistance oftentimes mean a period of La Soufriere, viewed from Rose Hall, Lately, La Soufriere has become a boss wondering if he is thinking about crippling times for the little people, on a day when he was having a quiet fear factor, a hot topic in the news making more mischief. It is a question who are already enduring hard times. day. media and the talk of the town. After on many minds - what would or could As it stands, some of the people resting for four decades, the ‘Master- be the outcome if it blows. have a ‘don’t care’ attitude. and petty thieves would break into Blaster’ appears to want to let off some Still, I hope that it doesn’t. Others, who are resigned to not their homes to steal their earthly steam; it is showing signs of becoming However, if it does, I pray that it leaving their homes to go into camps, possessions. rude and rowdy to a population who wouldn’t be as catastrophic as where they can become susceptible to From my observation, there’s a already doesn’t care for each other, or 1902/1903 when many succumbed to the deadly COVID-19 disease, are gloomy look on the horizon. The hazy simply does not seem to respect the its ashes laced with gasses. taking action to safeguard themselves atmosphere is raising the anxiety of laws of nature. many people, especially those with To leave or not to leave from hazardous elements just in case I can feel stillness in the it explodes. challenges, such as the disabled, the atmosphere. On a positive note, the A good friend of mine who goes by mentally challenged and those gangsters and bandits are keeping a In these trying times, I pray that it the alias ‘Shock-Out’ summed up that mothers with infants. low profile. The ‘monster’ has would keep it’s cool and not make the attitude saying ‘he ain’t running! He The nation is in crisis yet, no matter preoccupied the minds of people situation more problematic for a prefers that Soufriere ‘kills him than how dim the situation gets we have to throughout the length and breadth of nation already battling with COVID- Covid take him to the great beyond’. be optimistic. There is a grave concern SVG, the soothsayers and Chamber of 19, Dengue Fever, and a distressing And there are other residents who at the moment, as the boss grumbles Commerce included. But the pastors economy that could well be heading for declare stoically they would not leave and rumbles, letting off sulfur. All we stand out; they think that God has the IMF, whose conditions for their homes, fearing that vagabonds can do is to take the necessary precautions and take heed of what is relayed to us. Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) and Carden A. Michael Effusive eruption continues the Seismic Research Continued from Page 12. general conditions at the other monitoring equipment Centre (SRC) hosted a 6:00 summit of the volcano for future deployment. pm virtual community Cabinet on the state of proving conducive for some Many will recall that the meeting at Georgetown on volcano and the monitoring specialized work, the Belmont Observatory had Tuesday, 26, to update operation. electronics team, led by Mr. played a pivotal role during residents on the latest Meanwhile, Dr. Adam Ian Juman, installed a the 1979 eruption. The team development at the La Stinton from the Montserrat camera and EDM reflector then was led by Professor Soufriere Volcano, and to Volcano Observatory on the southern wall of the John Shepherd, Head of discuss the Georgetown conducted dome modelling crater. the UWI Seismic Research Community Evacuation and thermal imagery work. This, the monitoring Unit, and included Dr. Plan. Having completed their team said, will be important Keith Rowley, current Director of NEMO pivotal tasks, Drs. for the tracking of the Prime Minister of Trinidad Michelle Forbes reported Christopher and Stinton growth of the dome, with and Tobago. that this was well received, returned to Montserrat on the EDM reflector checking Additionally, preparation with residents registering Wednesday 20th January. for possible instability of the of the facility at Belmont for their interest and concern With the CALVIN Air southern wall. eventual full-time through the posing of helicopter having also Even as this was being occupation by scientists was pertinent questions. departed, Professor Richard conducted, the other well under way, and time To date, NEMO Robertson and drone pilot members of the Seismic was also spent sorting maintains that the alert Rommel De Freitas Research Centre (SRC) and equipment for eventual field level is still orange and that collaborated to take aerial Soufriere Monitoring Unit deployment. no evacuation order or photographs and video Teams spent the day at the Coming straight on the notice has been issued. imagery of the volcano. Belmont Observatory (Rose heels the public health Visits to the La Soufriere A cloud of ash from the 1979 And on Sunday 24th with Hall), testing and preparing holidays, the National volcano are still strongly eruption of the La Soufriere volcano discouraged. was a sight to behold. 14. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V News Officials uneasy about COVID variants

TESTING is yet to confirm whether any Co-V-2 (the UK variant) in St Lucia, Keizer-Beache COVID-19 variants presently exist in St which had become the third country confirmed that the Vincent and the Grenadines. behind Trinidad and Tobago and results of samples sent But according to the Chief Medical Jamaica to record the variant within to the CARPHA facility Dr. Simone Keizer Beache, CMO, Officer Dr Simone Keizer-Beache, their borders. in Trinidad and Tobago for testing had confirmed no presence of other given the disease patterns that were Keizer-Beache said at a press shown no signs of the UK variant. variants but did register concern that unfolding, there is concern among briefing on January 26 that since we (DD) they could be here. health officials that the UK variant share similar source markets of could be present here. visitors, it was possible that the This concern comes as the variant could be here. Caribbean Public Health Agency. “But we have not had that (CARPHA) recently confirmed 5 confirmation from the lab,” the CMO BCK student is cases of the COVID-19 variant SARS said. 8th dengue death A 15-YEAR-OLD, fourth form student of the Bishop College Kingstown died at the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH), Tuesday 19th January, as a result of dengue fever according to health authorities. According to a press release from the Chief Medical Officer, the 15- year- old asthmatic female was admitted to the MCMH in early January 2021 with acute dengue fever and a severe allergic drug reaction. “After remaining stable initially, the teenager developed complications one week ago, deteriorated and died today,” the release dated Tuesday 18th said. Her death was recorded as this country 8th dengue fever related death in this wave (2020/21) of the fever. The 15-year old, identified as Ciara Gumbs, was a Peer Counselor at her school. A GoFundMe page set up by Ciara family to solicit Ciara Gumbs had a knack for support for her medical needs had helping her peers deal with their already raised almost $6000. challenges. According to the information on GoFundMe, Ciara was in dire need of this perhaps corroborating the health emergency health care services that authorities’ release which alluded to this country was not equipped to the teenager having severe allergic provide. drug reaction. “She is currently suffering from An update on the GoFundMe page severe dengue fever, seizures and following her death expressed thanks pneumonia. Soon she has to be to those who had and stated, “We will airlifted to a more highly- equipped use the funds raised for funeral.” hospital in Martinique,” the The health authorities also GofundMe page highlighted. reported on Tuesday that One It was further noted that the thousand, seven hundred and ninety teenager had swollen as a response to (1,790) laboratory confirmed cases of too many unsuccessful treatment dengue fever have been recorded attempts at home and at the hospital, since the outbreak in 2020. (KH) THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 15. 16. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 17. 18. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice Rent paid in kind Dear George,

MY WIFE and I live in the upper floor of our two-storey house. The bottom floor is rented to a young man. He has been there for about a year. My wife took charge of collecting the rent. Dear Nobody’s fool, We decided that we would have to give the young man notice since our You could and should have kept a daughter recently got married and we closer eye on things, but that’s hind decided to give her and her husband sight. that space. I asked my wife to give me There is nothing to redeem in terms an update on the rent and all she of rent seeing that it can be argued could produce was a receipt for one there was an agreement entered into month’s rent. between your tenant and your I approached the tenant and he told wife. Let it go. me he had paid his rent “in kind’ and And even though you say you ‘can pointed to his crotch and advise me to deal’ with your wife, I suggest you double check with my wife. He moved have a heart to heart talk with your out that same night! wife and you may discover that she George, that man had been sleeping could have been trying to get your with my wife for the whole time he attention without much success. All is was there. I want you to advise me on not lost; make an effort to salvage what course to take towards getting your marriage. my rent from this trickster. My wife I would deal with. George Nobody’s fool Paying for my stay

Dear George, husband was working. was a problem for During that month I her. She even accused I LIVE in the USA. My had to buy two cylinders me of trying to take her most recent visit home of gas, pay the rent for husband from her. was for a month, and I that month, stand the I was so embarrassed stayed with my cousin bill for all groceries and and vex that I ended up who lives in the country fund the children’s spending my last two side with her three expenses for school. It days at a friend’s house. children and husband. got to a point where I Now I’m back in the What a stay it was! had no more money to USA, she calls me very The moment I got in the spend. often and every call ends house, she started hinted When she learned that with send this and send at things she needed to my money was gone with that. I am tired of it. I get done with the house the wind she started think she is a user. but couldn’t because showing me a different I have also learned neither she nor her face. Everything I did since returning that she did have a job but took off the month I was there to “eat” me out. Get tested!! Should I just lock her off or confront her Dear George, first? She has no class. I am not interested in ever LATELY, my skin itches and I have noticed some seeing her again. sores appearing on my body. No user fee I shared this with a friend with whom I have an on and off sexual relationship, and she was of Dear No user fee, the opinion that I might be HIV positive. She has been avoiding me since and it is obvious that it’s because she thinks I am HIV You should confront positive. this issue head on. It is If she believes I am HIV positive, why can’t she not healthy to keep it agree to have me use a condom? I am willing to bottled up inside and let do that if it would put her at ease. What do you it eat away at your say? happiness. Let her know how you feel and your More questions displeasure with her decision to free load for Dear More questions, that month. I would not advise An itchy skin and sores do not mean you are locking her off because at HIV positive. If you have been having the end of the day she is unprotected sex and you are worried about your still your relative and HIV status, the best thing for you to do is to get relatives should settle tested immediately. And you should suspend all their differences in an sexual activities until you get the result. amicable way. You can go a step further and get a full medical The next time you examination to get more answers to your visit you may want to questions. state upfront what your expectations are. George George THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 19. V Leisure

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) ACROSS Put your time and energy into home Your ability to take hold of a situation improvement. Focus on what's will surely bring you popularity and 1. Place important rather than spreading leadership. Property investments should 4. Commercial yourself too thin and accomplishing payoff. Your mate will enjoy helping out. presentations little. A change is as good as a rest. Don't make unreasonable promises. 7. Cinematic Pitt 11. Stable female TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) 12. Sharp humor You may find yourself caught in the Make amends if you can. Romance is 13. Dressing gown 14. Breakfast orders middle of an argument that has quite possible if you are willing to 15. “_ takers?” nothing to do with you. Rely on approach someone who interests you. 16. Unspoiled spot yourself and you will look good to Put your emotional energy into passion 17. Wobbles superiors. not anxiety. 19. Flavorful 20. Previous to, GEMINI (May 22-June 21) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) poetically Limitations will set in if you haven't Leave your checkbook and credit cards at 21. Perched followed the rules. Visit those less home. Acknowledge your lover's needs. 22. Vocalist Ronstadt Your tendency to overreact could get 25. Most towering fortunate than yourself; be sure to 29. Actress – director help them with their personal you into trouble. Try to enlist the help of Lupino problems. those you trust in order to fulfill the 30. Paycheck deduction demands being made of you. 31. Sticky slime CANCER (June 22-July 22) 32. Clay dishes Take the whole family and make it an CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 35. Unconfined 5. Rackets 30. Aim (to) 40. Face feature enjoyable outing. If your lover tries to Get busy trying to make more money. 37. Informal salutation 6. Hog 33. Sewing supply 41. Opera melody curtail your freedom, it may lead to Changes in your home may be alarming 38. Beehive sound residence 34. Reef-dwelling 42. Heavy metal conflict. You can help a close friend at first. You can get others to do things 39. Hair tangle 7. Inhalation Fish 43. Zilch find solutions to personal problems. for you but be sure not to overpay them 42. Myth relatives 8. Drapery poles 35. Haul (around) 44. Pigeon kin or lend them money. 46. Ripped 9. Assist 36. Brunch 45. Blue expanse 47. Pekoe brew request Above LEO (July 23-Aug 22) 48. Gaze (at) feloniously 10. Contradict 38. Got news of 47. 21-Down Keep your mind on your work and stay AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 49. Kazakhstan’s 39. Dagger attack minus four away from situations that could ruin You will be in an overly generous mood continent 11. Ran across your reputation. Don't allow someone this week. You need an energetic outlet 50. Armed conflict 18. Timeline span to do a job that was designated that will help you dissipate your anxiety. 51. Covetousness 19. Shirt label specifically for you. You will have the stamina and the know 52. Necklace bit 21. Three plus three how to raise your earning power. 53. Peculiar 22. Tumbler edge 54. Caddie-carried gadget 23. Altar words VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) 24. Musical Your lover may be annoyed if you PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) DOWN King Cole have been flirtatious or not attentive Residential moves should be considered 25. Horse chow to their needs. Your personal life will carefully. Resist any idle chatter. Empty 1. Magazine leaf 26. Self still be experiencing difficulties and promises will cause upset. Verbal abuse 2. Basic desire 27. Emergency you are best to avoid the issues for the may lead to walkouts; don't make any 3. Gave exams to transmission SOLUTION time being. rash statements you may regret later. 4. Mindful (of) 28. Shoe point LAST WEEK’s V 20. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN Arnos Vale cricket pitches get attention

The Irrigation System at work before sprigging operations Miles Bascombe, Manager of began. the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. MILES BASCOMBE, Vale wicket, while it the filed was Sprigging operation on one of the pitches at the Arnos Vale Manager of the hasn’t been bad, it hasn’t concerned, Playing Field. National Sports Coucil stood out and we Bascombe said which overseers the recognize that’s probably he felt it was the right need to have a little bit well with the help from management and ongoing for the last… in the time to begin the process. of an advantage, and everyone involved. We operations of the Arnos excess of 15 years, that The intention, the with quite a lot of removed approximately Vale Playing Field, among the square hasn’t been NSC Manager shared, is wickets in the region still 4-6 inches of the soil other sporting facilities in relaid. It is something to have the status of the struggling I think that after which we then back SVG, is pleased that the that we have been Arnos Vale cricket this is a good opportunity fill and compact until we field’s cricket pitches are looking to do for some pitches elevated to be for us to make ourselves got the level we want,” getting some serious time now, but we have among the better wickets stand out as having one Edwards explained. attention. had difficulty securing in the West Indies. of the better wickets in The process will Speaking with THE quality soil that would do “Once that is the case, the region,” Bascombe continue with spraying, VINCENTIAN recently, justice to the type of people will want to come reasoned. sprigging and seeding, Bascombe rationalize the wickets that we want to and play cricket here… Bascombe has nothing irrigation and top undertaking, saying, “As prepare at Arnos Vale.” that is what we want. I but confidence in the dressing which will be William ‘Bill’ Edwards - we look around the Once the proper soil am looking forward to team that has been ongoing. Head groundsman of region and we hear the was sourced and with the time when we can entrusted with the Cricket authorities the Arnos Vale Sporting cries about wickets in the somewhat of a down have international operation. “I have a lot of here are hopeful that the Complex. Caribbean, the Arnos period as far as use of matches again so we faith in the operation field/pitches will be ready team which includes to welcome the West Lance John, Ian Allen, Indies Under-18 Nixon McLean, Sonal Tournament scheduled Maloney wins another 800M Adams, William ‘Bill’ for July-August. Edwards, the head That Tournament is VINCENTIAN SHAFIQUA MALONEY, groundsman, and his expected to be preceded representing the University of Arkansas, grounds staff,” he by a series of trial clocked 2:05.52 to win the Wooo Pig Classic declared. matches which will serve Meet’s 800m. Head Groundsman as test runs for the The Wooo Pig Classic Meet, hosted by the Edwards is happy how readiness of the pitches. University of Arkansas and staged last week things have progressed. Friday, January 22, at the Randal Tyson Track “The project has gone Stories by I.B.A.ALLEN Center, also involved universities: Kentucky, LSU, Missouri, Oklahoma State, Southern California and Texas. Maloney’s victory was her second in as many weeks, she having taken the 800m in Arkansas Invitational Meet hosted by her University, also at Randall Tyson Track, two weekends ago. The race was a good one for Maloney, a Richland Park native, as her winning time, 2:08.60, meant that she erased 3.08 seconds off her Shafiqua Maloney heads the field as they recent victory at the Arkansas Invitational. approach the finish line in the 800M of the Wooo But unlike in the Invitational two weekends Pig Classic. prior when her team took gold in the 4 x 400m relay, she and her colleagues had to settle for 5th In addition to savouring the world-leading place in that relay at the Wooo Pig Classic. performance, the Razorbacks top the Wooo Pig But the University of Arkansas ladies track Classic Women’s table with 129 points, ahead of team, familiarly known as the Razorbacks, had the Texas (72), LSU (64), South California (53), joy of winning that relay with a second team, in a Kentucky (51), Oklahoma State (33) and Missouri William Edwards applying fertilizer to the young world-leading performance of 3:32.18. (31). spriggs. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 21. V Sports SVGFF building its administrative capacity EXPECT in the coming Federation (SVGFF) as Allen, the Lead It is a good opportunity months a more the organisation embarks Consultant of Millennial to lead the way to show professional approach as on the Advantage HR Solutions other organisations that it relates to the professionalisation of its (MAHRS). once you have your administration of Football Secretariat. Understandably, Dr. administrative systems in St. Vincent and the Towards this end, an Allen is excited with the in place, that makes way Grenadines. eight-week training undertaking. She for good practices This is the programme for office declared at a signing throughout the sport.” anticipation of the staff will commence soon. ceremony between the She added, “We will be Executive of the St Responsible for the SVGFF and MAHRS, “I ensuring that policies are Vincent and the training is Dr Janelle think it is a good move... in place that will help Grenadines Football achieve its targets, and work towards making Football a sport that is more than just the love of the game, but a sport Six Vincentians in that is organised that President of the SVGFF- Carl Dickson (left) and Dr other organisations can Janelle Allen (right), signing the agreement to copy.” pave the way for training of the SVGFF’s staff. Meanwhile, President of the SVGFF- Carl training, it is expected performance team, Volcanoes Team Dickson, emphasized, “It that the staff would be and understand and is essential for the equipped with the apply the core SIX VINCENTIANS have been administrative staff to competence and skills principles of named in a 15-member Windwards understand the value necessary for functioning professionalism and Volcanoes squad to compete in the they add to the effectively as a high workplace etiquette. Cricket West Indies CG Insurance organisation… It is also Super 50 Cup 2021 Regional Cricket important that they Tournament, scheduled to commence understand the vision of February 4, in Antigua and Barbuda. the organisation and how Sunil Ambris leads the team which they will play a part in includes fellow Vincentian fast helping us realise bowlers Ray Jordan and Obed McCoy, success in this particular batsman Desron Maloney, leg spinner dispensation.” Keron Cottoy and off spinner Kenneth Dickson disclosed that Dember. the training of the office The rest of the squad reads: Andre staff will be followed by a Fletcher (Vice Captain), Alick Sunil Ambris – Ray Jordan - similar exercise for the Anthanaze, Roland Cato, Larry Captain and fast bowler Technical Staff of the Edwards, Ryan John, Preston batsman SVGFF and noted: “What McSween, Kimani Melius, Emmanuel comes out of it, will help Stewart and Kevin Stoute. us to understand where This year’s tournament reverts to we will need to go from the six original regional franchises: here”. Jamaica Scorpions, Trinidad and Dickson, who cited the Tobago Red Force, Guyana Volcanoes, professionalisation of the Barbados Pride, Leeward Island Secretariat as one of the pillars of his 2019 Hurricanes and the Windward Island presidential campaign, Volcanoes. projected that persons This means the West Indies will soon be seeing and Emerging Team, champions in 2019, experiencing, “a fresh will not be defending their title. look, a fresh attitude and United States, Combine Campus and a fresh approach to the Colleges and Canada who competed administration of in previous tournament will also miss Keron Cottoy - leg Desron Maloney spinner Football.” out. - opening Among the topics to be In the last edition the teams were batsman elucidated, through a split into two groups. This time combination of virtual around, each team will play each and face-to- face other on a round-robin basis, with the sessions, are: the top four teams qualifying for the importance of quality semi-finals. service in effectively The Tournament is scheduled to executing the climax with the grand final on Federation’s mission; the February 27 at the Coolidge Cricket technical and soft skills and techniques necessary Ground, originally known as the for the consistent Airport Cricket Ground before it was delivery of service taken over by American businessman excellence; along with and cricket enthusiast Allen Stanford, effective strategies for rebuilt in 2004 and named the professionally dealing Stanford Cricket Ground. with difficult situations Obed McCoy - left Kenneth Dember and clients. I.B.A.ALLEN arm fast bowler off spinner At the end of the 22. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Sports Carifta Games to break Easter tradition

VINCENTIAN track and field athletes, like those in the the challenges posed by Standing still region, have a few more months to prepare for the COVID-19, the Bermuda return of their marquee event- the Junior Carifta National Athletics A GLANCE at this country’s preparations for its Games. Association (BNAA) “ international/regional football commitments This after the 2021 edition was rescheduled from remained committed to suggests that the authorities have adopted a hands 3rd April to 5th April, to 2nd to 4th July in the Games and was off approach. There is no urgency in getting a squad Bermuda. preparing to host the match fit. There is no doubt that the level of This was announced by the North American, 2021 edition.” Vincentian Keith uncertainty over the national scenario has added to Central American and Caribbean Athletic In response to the new Joseph- General that state of dilemma. But sporting authorities have Association (NACAC), last week. proposed dates, President Secretary of NACAC – to show some sense of initiative, productivity, and The new dates break with they ought to be serious about their projections. of the BNAA, Donna relayed the change of the long standing tradition of Raynor noted, “.. that dates to all parties World Cup qualifiers have been announced since being staged over the Easter August, but the state of abeyance prevails, with first weekend in July is a concerned. sporting events more likely to face cancellations. weekend. good weekend for us... It Perhaps that is the local Football Federation’s hope. General Secretary of fits in well with our There is no excuse for the slow pace in which NACAC, Keith Joseph, in calendar and our school system. School is out in national outfits are being arranged. Even though making the announcement July… It’s the perfect weekend, and the weather there might not the possibility of internationals, declared, “The NACAC will be great in July, not as cold as in April.” arrangements should have been heightened for the Council, at its meeting of The 2020 Junior Carifta Games was to have squad to reach a level of match fitness. Thursday 21 January 2021, taken place in Bermuda but was cancelled after the In addition to the World Cup qualifiers, there is unanimously approved the spread of the coronavirus was declared a pandemic convening of the 49th edition the Gold Cup agenda to complete. There will be in March 2020. need for a deep bench to cater for both those of the Annual Carifta Games tournaments. Everyone knows how delicate the in Bermuda during the period Joseph is looking forward with great anticipation situation can get as it relates to players’ 2 — 4 July 2021, with arrival to the return of the event. availability. being on 30 June and He assured, “NACAC stands ready to work with The number of factors influencing changes can departure on 5 July.” the BNAA to ensure that Bermuda and all of the unfold in quick time. There is also the looming Donna Raynor – In addition, the NACAC Carifta family enjoy the benefit of another very health risks that go beyond concerns about Covid- President of the Council also approved the successful edition of one of the world of athletics’ 19. BNAA, said that retention of the existing Carifta most exciting spectacles, the Annual Carifta The matter of persons having to adhere to the new dates Games programme of events, as Games.” stricter health and social protocols add to the were a workable well as team quotas. The Junior Carifta Games was inaugurated in complexity of the situation. 1972, when the event was staged in Barbados. There have been complaints about the neglect alternative. Joseph noted that despite players have received from the Federation, while attention is given to aspects not directly beneficial to the game. We are scheduled to have away matches in Daniel happy with T&T stint Curacao and Guatemala, with home games versus British Virgin Islands and Cuba. It is a question of the winner takes it all, for only SHENEZIA DANIEL, a said. of Tamana United, was Group winners from the bottom placed 30 placed national female As for her batting, she quick to sing the praises CONCACAF countries are into that preliminary cricketer, is pleased with confessed, “I wasn’t of Daniel. stage. her performance for the pleased in some of the “As coach I am pleased The six Group winners advance to the second Waterloo All Stars games because I know with her performance for round, with the winners engaging in home and cricket team in the my ability, so there’s the 2020 season which away eliminators. The three teams that come 2019/20 Trinidad and room for more was an asset to our through in that category join the top five nations of Tobago Women Cricket improvements going team. Daniel as our vice Costa Rica, USA, Honduras, Jamaica, and Mexico. competitions. forward.” captain of our team It will be a hard grind towards Qatar. The Gold Back home after an Daniel, who served as which took part in the Cup has been adjusted in light of the fluid Covid eleven-month stint with Vice Captain of her Darren Ganga charity situation. T&T club Tamana team, highlighted, match, and was one of Sporting organisations have been forced to United, Daniel told THE “Playing lots of night our stars in that game in contend with changes to life patterns as the reality VINCENTIAN, the batting and bowling. She of the crisis continues to take effect. games (flood lights) and There is the ongoing debate as to the likelihood exposure to playing in batting on matting were continued her good form of the Tokyo Olympics., and there is the possibility different conditions and really great experiences. in the Trinidad and of a further postponement of that affair, and more playing more competitive All in all I had a very Tobago Women’s ominously a cancelation. cricket have made her a good experience and Championship division, In essence, a new timetable has arisen as far as better player. exposure and hope that which was interrupted sporting activities are concerned. Besides the Covid She was quick to maybe from this by the Covid, but in the challenge, other national concerns have not admit, though, that she experience someone limited number of games disappeared. needed to continue to put would have interest in she was still shining …. Dengue fever remains a live threat, and even as in the work if she is to be me as an all rounder.” picking up wickets in Vincentians have grown used to it, La Soufriere more consistent. In the competions that every game she played. volcano announced its presence in practical fashion. “In the bowling area I were curtailed, Daniel She was definitely on It is surprising that the new generation of was satisfied with my track to pick up the most Vincentians have not gotten a grasp of the impact of amassed 172 runs with figures. I was aiming for her best being 43 not out wickets had it not been the volcano and will shudder at the slightest Shenezia Daniel, most wickets in both T20 against Strikers, and for the Covid which occurrence. national cricketer, was and 30 overs took 21 wickets with her brought a halt to all One can rest assured however, that the Soufriere pleased with her Competitions but due to off spin, 5 for 16 being formats. does not operate in secret. When it’s time to erupt, attachment in Trinidad the Covid the her best bowling figures. it announces its intention with clarity. The world and Tobago and was will see and know that the giant has awoken. competitions finish Moses Lendore, Coach I.B.A.ALLEN One must remember it is an active volcano and prematurely,” Daniel praised by her coach. will live up to its billing from time to time. Soufriere has provided the backdrop for many of the scenic and idyllic conditions that the nation possesses. There are also training facilities provided naturally whether hills, valleys, or beaches. So we have some home grown circuits. But there is that cloud of mist lurking over the Vincentian horizon, and we have to be vigilant about the conditions. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021. 23. V Classifieds

VIOLA EUGENA STEPHENS HERLINE EARMINE MARTINA GEORGINA JOSEPH LEIGERTWOOD DESRIE NATALIE STAPLETON better known as Vivi

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.04 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 DORSETSHIRE HILL MAN KILLED IN VILLA

Stories by KENVILLE HORNE pronounced dead at the in his son’s life. ‘We weren’t scene by the District on good terms,” he POLICE are said to be Medical Officer. acknowledged. investigating the shooting A family member who “He asked me to bring death of a 27-year-old spoke with THE him to Canada but he had a Dorsetshire Hill man. The VINCENTIAN newspaper mind of his own. He was incident is said to have in said that Greaves had trying and just needed some Villa on Saturday 23, around mental health issues. direction,” King said, adding 8:18 pm. The family member said that Greaves like a lot of A release from the Royal that it was rumored that girls and wanted to make SVG Police Force said that Greaves might have money. on Saturday evening, police witnessed a shooting Greaves death is listed as were notified of a body of an incident at a night club the second homicide for the unknown lying on the road some weeks ago, and he year. His death follows that in Villa leading to the probably was killed before of Jason Martin, a 47-year- Community College. he could give evidence. old man of Belmont who On arrival at the scene, Greaves was raised by his died on Wednesday, after he police found a young man, mother. He was a graduate was chopped on the left foot later to be identified as of the West St. George by another villager, during a Corey Greaves of Secondary School. disagreement. Dorsetshire Hill, lying in a THE VINCENTIAN also pool of blood with what spoke to Jay King, who appeared to be gunshot identified himself as Corey’s Gorey Greaves of wounds to his head. He was father. Doresetshire Hill was said, King disclosed that he according to a source, to Jay King, admitted to have resided overseas and have frequented the spent little time in his admitted he was not present Calliaqua/Villa area. son’s life. DAYLIGHT SHOOTING IN ROSE PLACE

A YOUNG mini bus conductor plant shop in a relative busy with an extension clip. literally ran and left his cap part of the community. That person also opined and shoes behind him, when a Sources said that the that the assailant seemed masked gunman attempted to gunman, apparently on to be familiar with Rose shoot him in Rose Place recognizing that his target was Place. (Bottom Town), on Thursday in a “busy area,” decided to In the aftermath of the 21st January. end his pursuit and walked shooting, the conductor’s The conductor, who works calmly away with gun in hand. cap and shoe could be seen on a bus that plies the Green Persons who were in the on the road, and it was Hill route, was in the vicinity area when the shooting observed that at least one of the Magic Clean laundry in unfolded had to run for cover. bullet was lodged in an Rose Place, when the mask A popular member of the SVU parked in the vicinity gun man appeared from an community, who operates a of the shooting. alley and began firing at him, shop in the area, sustained Reports are that there is sometime around 11:50 am. injuries as he sought to seek an ongoing feud between One eyewitness said that safety when he saw the persons from Largo Height A section of the street where the shooting the conductor took off gunman walking in his and Green Hill, and that the took place. Inset: The conductor’s cap “running for his life,” as the direction. shooting was another remained behind as he had ran away from gunman gave chase and Another person who expression of this ongoing the attack. continued to discharge his witnessed the shooting but conflict. sometime ago when three reviewing weapon. requested anonymity, said “The shooting on Thursday persons were shot,” said a surveillance footage from The conductor is said to that the assailant was is in relation to the shooting Rose Place resident. security cameras of one nearby have ran in the direction of a carrying a Glock handgun that happen in Largo Height Police are said to be business place.

Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.