Friday, August 2nd, 2019 The Federation’s Politically Independent News Source Issue #1292 PUFF, PUFF, PASSED

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STORY ON CAUSE OF STORY ON OFFICIALS STORY ON CULTURAMA PAGE 24... BRANTLEY FIRE: PAGE 12... WARN ON PAGE 15... CROWNS ‘UNDETERMINED’ HURRICANE

CMYK Page:2 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Parliament Recognizes Youth Voices at Regional Debate on Migration and Border Security

Four youth represen- John F. Kennedy. tatives from St. Kitts who participated in He added that the topic the 15th Regional debated surrounded Youth Parliament held border security and mi- in Trinidad July 17 gration issues -- timely were recognized by the given the challenges Federal Parliament of facing many countries St. Kitts and Nevis around the world. Mr. Tuesday. Knight said that the St. Kitts and Nevis parlia- Speaker of the National ment, as well as citi- Assembly, Honourable zens, may need to have A. Michael Perkins, discussions on related invited the quartet issues shortly. -- Mauriel Knight, Azuree Liburd, Kara The youth parlia- Daley and Vikell ment was held as part Edwards-Douglas -- of the 44th Annual to Tuesday’s sitting Conference of the of the parliament in Caribbean, Americas Basseterre to be recog- and Atlantic Region of nized for the important (left to right) Vikell Edwards-Douglas, Mauriel Knight, Kara Daley and Azuree Liburd,were recognized in Parliament The Commonwealth role they played at the on Tuesday. Parliamentary regional debate. – have passed through Perkins said. country,’” Mauriel of the group, citing the Association. The con- the youth parliamen- Knight said in express- quote made famous by ference ran from July Speaker Perkins, tary system, hope The debate was at- ing gratitude on behalf United States President 12-19. noting three current the visit would “help tended by approxi- Members of Parliament mould them in their mately 41 youth (MP) – Member for development.” parliamentarians from #3, Honourable Konris across the sub-region. Maynard; Deputy “It is my hope that Speaker of the National the young people of “It truly was a great Assembly and Senator, our Federation would honour to show other Honourable Akilah look at these factors youth in the Federation Byron-Nisbett; and and be encouraged that what it means to ‘ask Clerk of the National there are opportunities not what your country Assembly, Sonia ahead once you con- can do for you but what Boddie-Thompson tinue along that part,” you can do for your SKELEC to Embark on ‘Vital’ Solar Project

The St. Kitts Electricity potential life-saver of of a power purchase Company Limited the fi nancial securityagreement for the (SKELEC) is set to of SKELEC,” Liburd commencement of the begin work on a solar said. “It will avoid fuel project, expected to be project as part of its re- cost, and the expected initiated shortly. newable energy thrust fuel avoidance cost the Minister with re- from the installation of The solar project was sponsibility for Energy, this solar farm will not signed with Leclanché the Honourable Ian only be benefi cial to SA, a leading provider Patches Liburd, an- the energy demand of of high quality energy nounced during the this Federation but is storage solutions. Sitting of Parliament potentially the only vi- Tuesday. able option at this time The energy minis- to keep SKELEC afl oat ter added several “This solar project, moving forward.” other initiatives are Mr. Speaker is not also on the horizon only important to the Liburd was speak- that will help to ease future development of ing specifi callySKELEC’s to cash fl ow our country but is the SKELEC’s signing burdens. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:3 Prime Minister Thanks Former Chief of Police, Praises Acting Commissioner

Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, pub- licly thanked former Commissioner of Police Ian Queeley for his years of service and formally accepted his resignation during Tuesday’s sitting of the National Assembly. Queeley’s resignation paves the way for his assumption to the po- sition as Ambassador of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to the Kingdom of Morocco, period of great anxiety been serving as acting tactical approach to rise in criminal ac- announced last week. “Mr. Brandy is the most and turmoil,” he said. Commissioner since matters of law en- tivity in the country experienced police of- “He has been able to Oct. 1. forcement. We have and to broaden the The Prime Minister also fi cer in the Royalhold St. the Force together seen that he has been response mechanism took the opportunity to Christopher and Nevis as a disciplined Force “Under his own lead- able to bring to the of the police as the praise the performance Police Force, and he committed to protect- ership, we have seen fore and implement a key law enforcement of Mr. Hilroy Brandy, took over the leader- ing and serving the his competence in wide range of initia- body in the country,” acting Commissioner ship of the police in people of St. Kitts and terms of strategy and tives attempting, as the Prime Minister of Police. an acting capacity at a Nevis.” Brandy has in terms of his own it were, to curb the said. Page:4 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS EDITORIAL Our Patrimony

Patrimony (defined as property ownership), is a very critical part of our culture and history. Week after week, notices appear in the newspapers about patrimony. Sadly, some notices are for property foreclosures, some are of lost certificates of title to land, but others are notices of intention to own land.

The history of land ownership is different for St Kitts and for Nevis. Whereas Nevis developed a peasantry in the late 19th century and early 20th century, St Kitts continued in plantocracy well into the 20th century until the sugar industry ceased to exist. Thus, there has been a longer history of land ownership and patrimony in Nevis. Nowadays, that does not matter as both islands have now converged into a similar pathway; Government has become the caretaker of our patrimony. However, as we move around the country, we see dereliction; patrimony appears to have been abandoned. One visitor to Nevis, passing along the island main road, going north from Charlestown, commented on such der- eliction and asked for an explanation. He was told (tongue in cheek), that we are creating historical ruins. That is not the fault of the government. The answer is comical, but it hides a stark and sad reality; the issue of family feuds surrounding inheritances. Unless a property is willed to a specific family member, under our inheritance laws, every sibling (legiti- mate and illegitimate) is entitled to an equal share as well as any surviving spouse (common-law may also be included) also has an entitlement. One or more family member can buy out the others, but that hardly ever hap- pens. Then, according to law, the property is to be sold and the proceeds distributed. But land prices on the open market are prohibitive. Were it not for the instrumentality of government and its land and house distribution programmes, property ownership would have become pro- hibitive, especially for young people. In St Kitts, there was the Central Housing Authority, CHA, which eventually morphed into NHC. Our research indicated that properties sold/constructed under CHA/NHC ac- count for more than 60% of the housing stock on St Kitts. On Nevis, CHA was not as successful as a source of land and house own- ership. It was only when the NHLDC came into being that ‘government’ housing became an accepted norm to Nevisians, to the extent that it ac- counts for close to 50% of the recent housing stock on the island. Against this background, we salute the continuing work of the authorities with its land and house ownership programme, making land affordable for industrial and residential use. May our patrimony continue for generations to come.

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Editorial Policy: The Observer reserves the right to edit, rewrite, summa- rise or reject any unsolicited material. We will assume that all letters ad- dressed to The Observer or its staff are intended for publication unless -oth erwise stated. Letter writers are required to sign their names and are asked to include a telephone number to allow verification. Views expressed in letters, commentaries or personal columns do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of this newspaper. Limit submissions to 1000 words LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:5 Christena victims and survivors remembered

By Monique Washington rougher seas between and his cabinet, survi- the channel of St. Kitts vors, family members and Nevis, it took on of the victims and August 1, 1970 will water and sank. supporters. always be remembered as one of the most Only 91 people sur- Pastor Authur Freeman tragic days in the his- vived, most of whom who delivered the ser- tory for the people on were people that had monette noted that he St. Kitts and Nevis. to be rescued. was almost an orphan It is the day when the child had his mother government-owned On Thursday, the an- followed through with ferry M.V Christena nual service was held her original plans to On Thursday, members of the community marked the 49th anniversary of the sinking sank with 321 passen- at the Memorial Site travel to St. Kitts. of the Christena, which left 229 people dead. gers on board killing for the victims in 233. front of the Alexander “I was almost one of Christena went down ensure such a disaster who lost their lives on Museum. The event those persons. My a small portion of never repeats itself. that day and continue On that Emancipation was marked by hymns, mom was in St.Kitts at tears came to my eyes to cherish those who holiday some 49 years prayers, the reading of the same time, she was because I knew my “After the sinking of are still with us. We are ago the Christena set the names of the vic- supposed to be com- mother was to be on the Christena, we im- continually praying for sail for the 12-mile tims and the laying of ing over on the same that boat,” he said. proved how we operate family members and journey from St. Kitts a wreath. boat. One of my sisters between the islands via friends to fi nd peace to Nevis. The passen- whom she was staying Chairing the memorial boat. Such maritime and understanding. ger capacity was only In attendance was told her to wait until was Rohan Isles who laws and operating Let the 233 be remem- 155 making the ferry Deputy Governor- that Tuesday which she noted that the sinking procedures have kept bered for as long as overloaded for what General Hyletta did,” said Freeman. of the boat triggered us safe for more than the water runs through would be its fi nalLiburd, run. Premier of offi cials to tightenfour decades. We con- theses seas,” he said. As the ship entered the Nevis Mark Brantley “When I heard the the maritime laws to tinue to mourn those Page:6 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS NIA to pay back part of $200 million in CBI

By Monique Washington of Finance Collin Dore that citizenship through invest- Citizens Movement (CCM) the “Charleston Accord”, around $18 million of CBI ment, either by making came into government in an agreement made in monies given to the NIA a donation or an investment 2015. He compared this 2015 after federal elections Some of the $200 million came in the form of loans. such as a real estate pur- favourably to the previous were won by Team Unity. that Nevis has received from This included $13.5 million chase. The monies collected government, saying that in People’s Action Movement Citizenship by Investment for a Nevlec generator and from this programme are a seven-year period under leader Shawn Richards, (CBI) fund since 2015 were $4.5 million for construc- placed in the Sugar Industry the previous Labour gov- People’s Labour Party lead- in part loans that will have tion of a new wing at the Diversification Fund. ernment from 2006 to 2013, er Timothy Harris and CCM to be paid back by the Nevis Alexandra Hospital. Nevis only received $17.3 leader Vance Amory signed Island Administration. On Thursday, Premier of million from the federal the accord which agreed the CBI is a programme de- Nevis Mark Brantley said government. people of Nevis would be The Observer confirmed signed to attract foreign- the NIA had received $200 entitled to a share of CBI with Permanent Secretary ers who can qualify for million since his Concerned He said this was a result of funds. Printery Team Commended for Hard Work, Dedication

The work and dedica- tion of the manage- ment and staff of the St. Kitts and Nevis Government Printery was recognized July 26 at its third an- nual Professional Development Day. “I want you to be mindful of the fact that you contribute to the printery’s success,” Permanent Secretary Osbert DeSuza, said during the opening of the event. “The Printery also contrib- utes to your success as you build a strong team. I want to com- mend you for a build- ing a great team.” He added the theme, “Building a Strong Team to Achieve Success,” was fitting- while highlighting that the camaraderie of the staff can be seen through its work, add- ing the professional development day en- sures capabilities and endeavour that we are number of years. the government has fall less than what it be operational by the skills are kept apace involved in. made towards the is and will improve. end of the year. with trends. “On behalf of the building of a new We want nothing Mr. DeSuza, on behalf prime minister, and Printery. but good and time- “The government is “I think this is impor- of himself and the en- by extension the rest ly delivery out of doing a number of tant to every institu- tire government, ex- of the government, I “The fact that the gov- the Printery.” projects concurrently tion,” he said. “I think tended appreciation want to thank you for ernment is making and you are not left we tend to, in a number for the contribution what we call sticking such an investment The new Printery will out,” he said. “You of cases, to settle into a that the Printery is to and holding the in the new Printery increase the staff’s would appreciate that mold when we go into making to national fort,” he said. “We really is commend- comfort and will be in order to improve a particular job envi- development, includ- want to thank you for able,” he said. “The equipped with mod- the conditions un- ronment and we don’t ing the printing of your contribution to government expects ern equipment. The der which you work, recognize that we have the yearly estimates the Printery.” that as we secure permanent secretary you would have to to change, we have to and budget docu- such investment that thanked them for its suffer a bit of incon- move with trends and ments. He went on to The permanent sec- the quality of work patience, saying new venience and that is the development in thank the staff who retary noted the sub- that comes out of building is advancing what is happening any particular area of had been there for a stantial investment the Printery will not quickly and should now.” ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:7 Page:8 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Nevis road project progressing

Surrey Paving putting in proper drainage in the Cade Bay area Minister Spencer Brand speaking with Surrey paving officals

By Monique Washington road rehabilitation very pleased with the independence celebra- Bay and Nelson Spring area but will project from Cotton progress of work thus tion,” he said. Spring and they have halt construction until Ground to Clifffar. One of the major sought to improve after the Culturama The Nevis Island Main Dwellers is being un- objectives for this Brand urged motorists drainage. season. road project that began dertaken by Surrey project is to deal with to drive around the just two weeks ago is Paving and Aggregate drainage issue in these construction with care “There are several After Surrey Paving progressing smoothly Company at a cost of areas,” Brand said. and respect all road drainage works that has completed phase with work expected to EC $6.5 million. signals. are accepted to take one of the main road be completed before “We want this proj- place but this is a ma- project they have Independence celebra- This past week Brand ect completed in the Surrey Paving Project jor one,” he said. agreed to design a tions on September visited the site and shortest possible Manager Michael new stretch of road 19, Minister of Works declared that he was time. We are hop- Marrison said there He said that they are for the Cades Bay Spencer Brand has pleased with the ing that it would be used to be “significantcurrently fixing the Fountain, Mt. Lily said. The island main work thus far. “I am completed before our flooding” in Cadesdrainage in the Nelson area

CMYK LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:9 PM Harris Promotes Alternative Career Opportunities Available in the Police Force

There are a number of (CCTV) technology. by the government. exciting career oppor- tunities in the modern “It requires peo- “As we invest in our Royal St. Christopher ple versed in ICTs Forensic Lab ... we and Nevis Police (Information and see the need for peo- Force – vacancies that Communication ple with a particular require specialized Technologies),” scientific proficien- skill sets in service Prime Minister cy to come to fill va- of the nation – Prime Harris said, hint- cancies in the Police Minister Dr. the ing to the contin- Force,” Dr. Harris Honourable Timothy ued expansion of continued. “As we Harris told the Federal the programme that develop a new stra- Parliament Tuesday. will require persons tegic arm of intel- to install, maintain, ligence gathering The prime minister monitor, and perform we see the need for noted there are cur- other duties. persons with a broad rently 43 vacancies array of skill sets to within the Force, sev- Three hundred and come and to be part eral of which do not forty-five surveil- of our Police Force.” fit the conventional lance cameras were thinking about what it recently mounted in It was also pointed means to be a police Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris Basseterre and sur- out ongoing reforms officer, urging -citi rounding communi- to modernize the judi- zens and residents to when choosing a ca- a police officerhighlighted has the need ties under Phase I of cial system will also give law enforcement reer path Noting the evolved to become for skills in Closed a citizen safety pro- create opportunities due consideration traditional role of more multifaceted, he Circuit Television gramme undertaken to serve the nation.

CMYK Page:10 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS VacancyREAL ESTATE REALVacancy ESTATE EMPLOYMENTVacancy EMPLOYMENT REALVacancy ESTATE REAL ESTATEVacancy EMPLOYMENT Vacancy EMPLOYMENT Gardner please call Colors Duty Free New Generation Total Power equipment Survivors Bar VJS Snackette Marcia Wilson Jewellers is seeking a Heavy Equipment is looking for a cleaner Shop Keeper is seeking 1 201 290 8888 watch horologist must Seeking a heavy 662-8161 Contact: 668-8525 6 Carpenter Vacancy have 5 years experi- equipment operator Vacancy Vacancy 3 chef Indian and ence and watch horol- Contact: 665-2310 contential New Generation Survival Bar ogy training. 465-2030 Need Cleaner 1 purchase manager Heavy Equipment Vacancy Needs one Bartender Contact : 665 4281 Seeking a heavy Vacancy Contact : 668-8525 Contact: 764-7900 equipment operator Bernard Construction Contact: 665-2310 New Generation Vacancy Vacancy Services Heavy Equipment One Sales Person Vacancy Handyman Wanted: Labourer Seeking a heavy Jamaican Bakery Juana Boutique needed Contact :668-2752 equipment operator Needs Bakery Assistant Contact: 665-6682 Mihir Enterprises: Contact # 660-6196 Building maintenance Contact: 665-2310 Fort Street Basseterre Vacancy Vacancy Opposite big sale store 3 Kings Services Vacancy H & H contact 665-1926 contact 6611797 Wesk Limited Vacancy One Sales Clerk Vacancy for a sales Vacancy Seeking One Effy Jewelers is look- Health Plus Pharmacy Contact: 660-9790 Representative. Deck Hand ing for a jeweler and Cashier Anthony Construstion Contact : 663-4167 seeking a housekeep sales person with sales clerk Vacancy Vacancy 6692262 atleast 2 years expe- Pharmacy technicians Vacancy rience, contact nick Pharmacist Needs One reliable Sales Representitive: Vacancy 4654358 Tel:465-1072 Working 9:00am- Felicity Sewing Shop Zoe Sensational Life male, between ages of 25 to 40 years 5:00pm must be able is looking for an as- Occupational Vacancy Vacancy to work on sundays sistant if interested Must have knowledge Physio Therapist T & T Security Service Diamond Bar of carpentry and be when ship is in port Contact # 765-4551 Needs Security Officer Email: felicitisewing- Naturopathic Doctor & Needs a Salesperson able to do minor repairs Organic Pastry Baker Contact : 661-4856 / Limited Supervision Apply to: I love [email protected] 762-3233 Contact: 660-5569 St.kitts Bldg 5 store Contact:660-3647 and have a driv- Vacancy ers license 101 port zante basse- Vacancy terre st.kitts Vacancy Vacancy Contact: 664-9349 Sam’s Carpentry CK’S Landscaping Vacancy is seeking a car- New Vibes Real Vibes Email: 2 Bedrooms, Bar & Snackette Nursery Attendant/ [email protected] penter must have 3 unfurnish COCOLOSPM years experience Bartender & Cook Landscaping One sales person Call:469-5723 664- Telephone: 663-1751 contact- 6636245 3077 665-1025 Contact : 667-6155 Contact: 6679122 Vacancy Vacancy Vacancy Vacancy Price Busters is seeking Store Times Square Jewels and Time is KALI MATA IN Sun & Sand is seeking a store Manager for Retail Store At Port seeking DBA Sharky’s is seeking a store supervisor Zante Certified GEMOLOGIST from supervisor Must have 3 years retail sales & Gemological Institute. 3 years experience purchase experience, and must 3 years sales experience 3 years experience have managed a retail store for Must be honest, reliable and trust Must be flexible with timing atleast 2 years. worthy and have a high degree of Must be flexible with timing Spanish speaking is an assat Must be honest, reliable, and trust integrity. Spanish speaking is an assat worthy and have a high degree of Contact- AMIRULALAM2@ integrity. Excellent communication and lis- Contact- HOTMAIL.COM Excellent communication and tening skills, as well as full com- HARKSHSADARANGANI@ Listening skills, as well full com- puter knowledge. YAHOO.COM puter knowledge. Email your resume at Email your resume at NKHUBCHANDI81@ NKHUBCHANDANI81@ GMAIL.COM GMAIL.COM .

LIQUOR LICENCES ORDINANCE, 1906 JOB OPPORTUNITY AT SPIRITUALITY SCHEDULE A BROOKES HAULAGE & To the Magistrate District ‘’C’’ QUICK DELIVERY Specilize in all types To the Superintendent of Police. of spiritual works- sickness I, Play Boy Pizza Shack We are seeking an Heavy At PARADISE ESTATE in Equipment Operator Removing of evils-Blockages the Parish St.Thomas’ do hereby give you notice Must have over 3 Clearances- Success- That it is my intention to ap- years experience Prosperity ply on 27thDay of August ,2019 next to the District Magistrate Reading- ECT- At Charlestown for a Liquor Licence in respect of my Premises in Paradise Please call 869.662.8765 Contact - + 15926305590 or Estate in St Thomas’ Parish, Nevis MR Brookes (Owner) Whatsapp - +15926305590. Dated this 18th day of July 2019. or 869.469.2744(Office) Signed: N฀Hicks LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:11 Homeowners Urged to Take Advantage of Property Tax Amnesty

Homeowners who are in arrears period.” are being encouraged to take ad- vantage of an extension of the To take part, all payment plans, Property Tax Amnesty Programme including deposits, must be made announced by the Government of on or before Jan. 31, 2020. St. Kitts and Nevis this week. The length of the payment plan “In an eff ort to allow taxpayers and a minimum deposit would be to become current with their tax determined after consultation with obligations, the Government of the Inland Revenue Department. St. Kitts & Nevis is extending its Taxpayers are to note that in de- Property Tax Amnesty Program, fault of any payment, interest and which includes a 10% reduction penalties would be reinstated, the in the tax amount and the total Inland Revenue Department said. amount of penalties and inter- est due to only $100,” the Inland For additional informa- Revenue Department announced tion, contact the department’s in a press release Wednesday, add- Debt Management and Filing ing “Flexible payment plans are Compliance Unit at (869) 465- available for taxpayers who are 8485 Ext. 3438, or visit the de- unable to settle the full amount partment’s new offi ce on the Bay before the end of the amnesty Road. Page:12 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Officials warn on possible first hurricane of year

By Loshaun Dixon activity is associated with a tropical wave located several hundred miles southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. All eyes are on a disturbance in the Atlantic that could develop into the They said that little to no development first hurricane this year and threatenof the wave is expected for the next few the Lesser Antilles beginning early next days while it moves westward across week. the eastern and central tropical Atlantic Ocean but environmental conditions are Senior Meteorological Officer at forecast to become more conducive for SCAPSA Elmo Burke said they are development over the weekend and a monitoring the weather system which tropical depression could form by early Officials are warning of a disturbance in the Atlantic which could form into a hurricane could impact the federation next week next week several hundred miles east of and threaten the Lesser Antilles as early as next week. the Lesser Antilles. “According to the National Hurricane Center, the system has a 50% chance Burke implored citizens to listen for how they will operate in the case of an learned lessons from 2017 when the of development into a hurricane,” said advisories and urged all to be prepared. emergency. nation was affected by two storms Burke Burke added that this was the time of within weeks of each other. the year when considered the peak of the “You want to have a plan for example on “Current models show that the storm is hurricane season. how to deal with elderly persons within He added that NEMA had also learned expected to affect the northern Lesser the household and who would take re- lessons from other islands which were Antilles.” National Disaster Coordinator at sponsibility for that individual,” he said. directly impacted. the National Emergency Management He noted that it is “still early days” and Agency (NEMA) Abdias Samuel said Samuel added that everyone should get “What that has done is made us more that changes to the models and forecasts that national preparations are already un- familiar with the emergency shelters resilient, looking at what happened are still possible. derway and they have already mobilised within their districts as well as the elsewhere and using that to get an stakeholders both locally and regionally district leaders. idea of how we could be impacted,” Burke said the Federation is under no as well as volunteers across the island. Burke said. storm watch or warning but the meteo- They have also been in regular contact He also implored all to check the rological office was keeping an eye on with their regional counterparts. NEMA website and Facebook pages Burke said that the 2017 experience the developments. for information regarding any im- taught them that every disturbance Samuel also urged citizens to start to get pending storms. in the Atlantic ought to be taken The National Hurricane Center said that prepare and develop a family checklist seriously. a broad area of shower and thunderstorm that would guide each household on Samuel said the Federation had Government considers changes to Public Integrity

By Kenichi Serino put certain safeguards in the legislation. However, they could within their commission.” timeline would be, [but] place and people need to this could not begin until budget. it will be done. We’re be aware.” the attorney general is- Following Kelsick’s not avoiding it, but Government is consid- sued a SRO making the Kelsick continued to wait resignation, Governor- we’re making sure it ering changes to the Earlier this year, attor- legislation actionable. for the SRO and by May General Sir SW Tapley will be done properly,” legislation around the ney Damian Kelsick when it had not arrived he Seaton appointed retired Byron said. Integrity of Public Life resigned as chair of the “I raised the issue of the resigned as chair. judge Pearletta Lanns Commission as it may Commission of Integrity SRO and the attorney as chairperson of the Byron said that commis- include too many civil of Public Life (CIPL). general [Byron} indicated “It makes no sense to me Integrity of Public Life sions taking some time servants “at a lower level In an interview with The that there were some con- to appoint an Integrity Commission effective to begin work after their at the public service”, Observer, Kelsick cited cerns among members of Commission whose pri- June 12. Lanns joined appointment was not un- Attorney General Vincent inadequate budget and a the government including mary function is to review two other two mem- usual and referenced the Byron said this week. lack of a statutory rules civil servants about the and receive declarations bers of the commis- National Commission and order (SRO) from safety of their informa- and there is no law in sion, Dennis Knight and on Cannabis which was “There are some discus- the government which he tion,” Kelsick said. “And place to require persons to Carol Boddie. appointed in April 2017 sions going on with the said was preventing the I said, ‘well you have to file declarations,” he said. but did not meet for the legislation, we may need commission from begin- allow the commission to Byron said he has not first time until October to have another look at ning its work in earnest. do its work’.” Kelsick likened the CIPL yet met with the new of that year. it,” Byron said in an inter- without an SRO to an un- CIPL chair but that view with The Observer. Kelsick said the function Kelsick said the CIPL did used sugar factory: “It’s progress on the com- “Things take time to get “It reins in a lot of people of the (CIPL) was to re- begin to develop proce- like it has all the machin- mission was moving going, maybe too slow at a lower level at the ceive and review financial dures that would protect ery. But it has not sugar forward. in our community, but public service.” “Our declarations from public the privacy of public ser- cane to process. That is that is how it is,” said view is that you have to servants as identified invant declarations as best exactly the status of the “I can’t say what the Byron. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:13 Two Caribbean Jurists Appointed UN Judges

Two judges from the recommended by the Caribbean have been Council. elected by the 73rd session of the United A total of 325 appli- Nations General cations were received Assembly to serve globally, 51 of which seven year terms of of- came from Latin fice on the UN Dispute America and the Tribunal (UNDT) as Caribbean. 96 candi- half-time judges. dates advanced to the written assessment The appointments for stage and 23 were Justice Francis Belle of invited to interview Barbados and Justice with the Internal Eleanor Donaldson- Justice Council at the Honeywell of Trinidad Hague, Netherlands. and Tobago took ef- fect on July 10. UNDT Finally, seven can- half-time judges serve didates received on rotation in New the Council’s rec- York, USA; Geneva, ommendation for Switzerland; and Justice Eleanor Donaldson-Honeywell of Trinidad and Justice Francis Belle of Barbados consideration of an Nairobi, Kenya. Tobago appointment by the were also appointed. Organisation’s sys- the Dispute Tribunal any judicial absences General Assembly Four judges were Judges will serve on tem of the adminis- are deployed up to affecting the work and 4 were appoint- elected by secret ballot one of two entities tration of justice for a cumulative period of the Tribunal. As ed by the General in total, Justice Rachel — the other being employment-related of six months per such, the judges Assembly by way of Sikwese of Malawi the United Nations disputes. year, as decided by elected were selected a secret ballot in an and Justice Margaret Appeals Tribunal the President based from a circulated election process. Tibulya of Uganda — that comprise the Half-time judges on on the caseload and list of candidates Bananas Will be OPEN all Summer Long

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Page:14 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Parliament decriminalises cannabis

Attorney General Attorney Byron speaks on the amendments to the Drugs Act in Na- A member of the public sits in the Parliamentary gallery as a bill to decriminalise the tional Assembly which will decriminalize the use of cannabis use of small amounts of cannabis is discussed

By Kenichi Serino “What we say we’ll do make the use of small obligations while al- are changing and as we cannabis. However, is that we won’t make amounts of marijuana, lowing for regulated meet and discuss soci- more work was need- it a criminal offense for the possession of it, the use that is consistent ety will decide how far ed on this, including In what the govern- small amounts.” smoking of it, you will with our constitution,” we go,” Byron said. ensuring that St. Kitts ment has described as not have a criminal re- said Byron. and Nevis would re- “a landmark” move, The new law comes just cord,” Byron said. Byron added that the main in line with its the National Assembly ahead of a deadline in- Byron said that the use new law would not anti-crime obligations has voted to decrimi- stituted by High Court “Persons may apply of cannabis would still allow for any “com- under international nalize the use of small Judge Eddy Ventose, for a license that will be limited to private mercial or financial”treaties. amounts of cannabis who struck down por- allow them to cultivate places and smoking of transactions for can- for private and reli- tions of the Drugs Act the plant in their pri- it prohibited in pub- nabis. He added that Speaking in gious use, replacing in early May, declaring vate dwelling, use the lic places.”You’re not usage around children Parliament, Byron some criminal penal- in a case brought by plant in their private supposed to be smok- would be restricted but also acknowledged ties with fines and- comRas Sankofa Maccabee dwelling and approved ing on Fort street,” he that it was in the inter- that more work in munity service. that the blanket prohi- place of purchase.” said. est of the state to pro- preparing the public bition on cannabis was tect “the very young”. for the relaxation of The new law passed by unconstitutional as it “This bill and the on- An exemption has cannabis laws. In a the National Assembly violated freedom of re- going work that is be- been made for public “The state has to pro- poll conducted by the changes the penalties ligion and conscience ing done, this work is places for worship for tect the very young and National Cannabis for possession of up to as well as the right to intended to uphold the practitioners of the you cannot say that Commission, while 15g of cannabis, the privacy. rights of persons in St. Rastafarian faith. I have my own right most citizens of St. use of cannabis in pri- Kitts and Nevis to have to privacy I can do Kitts and Nevis sup- vate residences and in Introducing the and use an alternative The smoking of can- whatever in front of ported medicinal houses of worship for amendments to the medicinal treatment nabis in public would children,” said Byron. marijuana, a major- the Rastafarian com- bill, Prime Minister Dr option, in treatment be punishable with a “There must be a pro- ity did not necessarily munity. It also allows Timothy Harris called of ailments, to uphold thousand dollar fine, ortection of the vulner- support decriminal- for persons to apply to the changes to the religious rights of per- in default of the pay- able amongst us.” ization for private or the Drugs Council for Federation’s drug laws sons and to drastically ment up to 40 hours religious uses. permission to cultivate “most impactful and reduce the unregulated of community service In an interview with cannabis for these uses. far-reaching”. Harris and illicit market for or in default of that The Observer, Byron “We require further suggested that the ex- cannabis,” Byron said. up to three days of said the usage around time to engage those In an interview with isting drug laws in St. imprisonment. children was still a in our country to in- The Observer, Byron Kitts and Nevis “re- Penalties for small point of contention be- vite to be part of this, said the bill was ex- flected a victoria viewamounts of marijuana Doing “any task” under tween the government to ensure that as we pected to be published regarding cannabis” of less than 15 gram the influence of task and the Rastafarian have this paradigm in the Government and said that in mov- have been reduced. under the use of can- community who will shift, as we adjust to Gazette by the end of ing toward decriminal- Instead of a criminal nabis that could con- use cannabis for their changing mores and this week, making the ization the Federation charge, a person will stitute negligence or religious ceremonies. attitudes in our soci- decriminalization of was participating in receive a ticket with professional miscon- ety that we get this cannabis the law of the a regional trend that a $50 fine. If theduct fine would be liable Byron told The thing right,” Byron land. He emphasised included Jamaica, is not paid then com- for a fine of $20,000,Observer that the gov- said. that this was not the Antigua and Barbuda. munity service will be or in default of that ernment had put off same as the legalisation required. If the com- 300 hours of commu- a broader Cannabis The bill also creates of the use of cannabis. Speaking in the munity service is not nity service or in de- Bill that would have separate consequenc- National Assembly, done then a “small- fault of that up to six gone farther than this es for children found “We still will not open Byron called changes term of imprisonment” months imprisonment. week’s reforms, in- to be using cannabis up the market to a un- to the law a “paradigm will be made. cluding in creating a and would require regulated, unlicensed shift”. “Some might say these broader framework them to participate free-for-all. This bill “We anticipate that are lenient penalties for cultivation and in a drug counselling will not legalise mari- “Today we signal to the this approach will sat- but the idea is that the distribution includ- programme approved juana,” said Byron. country that we will isfy our international attitudes in the country ing for medicinal by the government. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:15 Culturama run down

By Monique Washington night, the show made it was all said and history as for the first done David Archbald time there was a tie stood out from his The first set of crowns between two contes- competitors and won have been declared tants Lishane Mattis the hearts of the for the 45th staging and Kekona Charles judges to be crowned of Culturama with both from the Ivor Mr Kool amassing the two most coveted Walters Primary 925 point. still up for grabs this school and who each weekend. had 621 points. The He won the Legend Joycelyn Liburd Of Eden Wear seg- Culturama was of- Primary represent by ment, Pride of ficially launched Shamarlast Ottley and Oualie (Beach Wear) Terron ‘Invincible ‘Webb being crowned by Minister Eric Evelyn. First runner up (left) Thursday, July 25, at Tianna Griffin segmentand and the King Akedo and second runner up Mighty Herald (right). the Cultural Village the St.Thomas’ Interview segment. with individuals Primary school rep- being recognised resented by Zaquon First runner up was for their contribu- Challenger and Kertley Liburd who tion to the festival. J’nyah Matthew (594 amassed 844 points Singled out were the points) tied for first and gaining Cultural Culturama slogan runner up. performance (Talent) winner and patron and Darius Hodge who were presented On Tuesday, the captured the second with plaques and a Culturama Complex runner up position fireworks display. was filled to its gaining 837 points and seams with patrons wining King of the The grand opening for the Miss Culture Night segment. was also paired with Swimwear and Mr the Peechicks Junior Kool competition. On Thursday (August Calypso show where 1), the Groovy and 14 junior calypsonians The seven-hour long Power Soca monarch made an impressive competition had pa- was held, however, attempt to dethrone trons hanging on to the results of that com- reigning king Terron their seats in antici- petition would not be “Invincible” Webb. pation for who will announced until after gain the crown in this publication went to However, the a closely contested press. night belonged to race. “Invincible” who On Saturday seven retained his crown At the end of the calypsonians will do gaining 409 points night, Natalya battle against reigning 2019 Miss Culture Swimwear Queen Natalyah Morton with Mr. Kool David Archibald. over first runnerMorton up was crowned King Dis and Dat in a King Akeedo (388 the Miss Culture two-round competition. points) and second Swimwear with 1052 Battling for the crown runner up De Herald points. are King Irwin, Nutsy, (366 points). Hollywood, Murray, On her way to the Astro, Black Hat and Attention then crown she won the Sookie. The competi- switched to the Mr. Identical Swimwear tion will be held at the and Ms Talented segment, Cultural Cultural Complex. Youth that was origi- Pride, Pride Of Eden nally scheduled to Brown. The last crown will be held on Sunday, be fought for at the but which inclem- The first runner up Miss Culture Queen ent weather forced to was Kerricia Francis Pageant where Tereka Monday, July 29. who amassed 1035 Browne, Jonieka points winning Smithen, Nayala A team of a girl and a Flowers In Bloom Daniel, Harsha boy represented five (Two-piece) segment Parmanand and Nakita primary schools on and the Interview Thibou will vie for the the island as they vied segment, second run- coveted crown. That for the crown. ner up was Babita competition too will Seelall who amassed be held at the Cultural The talented young 943 points. Complex at 8pm on performers brought a Sunday. night packed with tal- The Mr. Kool com- ent, humour, history petition held on the Culturama is held un- and elegance. same stage had six der the theme “Love, gentlemen vying for Passion , Pride 2019 Talented Teen winners from Ivor Walters Primary school Lishane Mattis and At the end of the the title, but when Culturama 45!” Kekona Charles Page:16 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Football playoffs delayed to October

By Loshaun Dixon court battle between SKNFA and the Sol Island Auto Conaree The Premier Division Football Club. Super Six playoff s will be delayed un- The SKNFA penalised til October due to Conaree 24 points af- a continuing legal ter one of their play- battle between the St. ers was involved in Kitts Nevis Football a stabbing incident Association (SKNFA) after a game which and the Sol Island resulted in the wound- Auto Conaree Football ing of Raheem ‘Pipe’ Club. Francis. The player, Glenroy Samuel, has An October fi nish will since been banned mean that the league from play indefi nitely would be completed and charged for at- almost fi ve months tempted murder by the after its original fi nish police. date in May. This court matter will That announcement aff ect the outcome of came from SKNFA the fi nal point stand- General Secretary File Photo of action from the Premier Division featuring Conaree and Village Superstars ings for the playoff s. Stanley Jacobs who If the imposed sanc- told The Observer tions stands, Conaree that this was due to going through a pe- hosting the U20 wom- said. middle of October will not be in the com- the time frame and riod of international en, next week we will and the intention is petition and Saddlers other local and inter- matches, a number of be hosting the U14 Jacobs said SKNFA to fi nish the leaguewill qualify for their national commitments which will be hosted girls and we are also has other international then commence the fi rst premier league on the football calen- in St. Kitts and Nevis. hosting the U14 boys engagements during new season right af- playoff s. Conaree will dar. “The SKNFA is We just came out of in September,” Jacobs the coming months in- ter. We are looking at also be relegated to cluding the U17 girls the scheduling to see Division One. travelling to Barbados how it will impact the in October and in length of that,” Jacobs Jacobs said the September the start said. SKNFA has lodged of the Nations League an appeal against a in which the national He added that SKNFA decision against them team will be engaged. has been in constant which is still pending. communication with The new SKNFA sea- the clubs to let them “We have not received son usually begins know about plans a date. It has not been in late September. for the fi nal setand down next as yet for the However, due to the season. hearing, but we an- delay, the next season ticipate that it will be will commence imme- “They are well aware known very shortly,” diately after the Super of what the situation Jacobs said. Six fi nal. is and they have been extremely patient,” Eff orts to get a com- “The executive com- Jacobs said. ment from Conaree mittee has decided FC have been unsuc- that the best time The delay is the re- cessful as of press would be around the sult of an ongoing time. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:17 Quarry shortage delaying island main road

By Loshaun Dixon

A shortage of materi- als at the government quarry has led to a ma- jor delay in Phase 2 of the Island Main road resurfacing project. Speaking in a sitting of the National Assembly this week, Minister of Public Infrastructure Ian Liburd said that work by main con- tractor Surrey Paving has been delayed due to the lack of suitable base materials from the quarry and the project is now about seven weeks behind schedule. “Prior to the start of these projects we have made a deliberate de- cision to source all of our base material from the quarry. We Road work on going in Molineaux inherited a situation where the quarry had no equipment, so what also behind on work by spend $69M on an Those who travel on a have been addressed drainage that is 95 per- we have done so far is three weeks. This was island main road and regular basis in that re- with 50 percent of that cent complete while in to outsource that part due to a lack of quarry then three weeks or a gion would experience work complete. Molineaux Mansion of the mining of ma- materials as well as de- year after you have to when it rains too hard and Christ Church terials to [construction lays from the land and dig up the road to find you cannot pass Wash “There had been some similar work would be company] Rock and survey department and utilities,” Liburd said. Ghaut and we said issues with the relo- completed in the next Dirt,” said Liburd. water services depart- we would divert the cation of light poles three weeks. ment in respect to the He added that those water under the road to be repositioned by He said that the ar- relocation of under- travelling on the east- so come rain or sun SKELEC and they The government of St. rangement with Rock ground lines. ern corridor of the is- you can travel without will be completed in Kitts and Nevis allo- and Dirt is now on land will be now safer concerns.” five weeks,” Liburdcated $69 million for stream and the short- “We have taken the as significant work is said. the entire Island Main age of materials would deliberate decision, being done in the Wash Addressing additional road rehabilitation now be alleviated. to where possible re- Ghaut area. developments on the Liburd said that in project. Phase two locate the lines under Island Main road he Lodge and Ottleys started in March and Liburd added that the road because it “That component is said that in Cabbage they are construct- was scheduled to run small contractors are makes no sense you 70 percent complete. Tree the drainage ing sidewalks and until May 2020. Page:18 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS New Treasury building on time and on budget

By Monique Washington work will be completed by September. Thereafter they would set a time for the opening. The new Nevis Treasury building Current work at the building in- in downtown Charlestown is near- cludes tiling, installing electricity, ing completion and is on budget, painting, installation of interior according to Permanent Secretary doors, installation of the elevator of Finance Collin Dore. and landscaping. The Observer toured the $8.5 mil- He noted that when the building lion Sugar Industry Diversification is completed the NIA will save Fund (SIDF) funded building on almost a quarter-million dollars Wednesday. The multicoloured in rent per year that is currently building is adorned with stone- being paid for the IT department, work and wood on the outer por- Treasury and Inland Revenue tion. The top floor will be used Department. for the IT department while the outside balcony will be used for “When you combine them, you’re mini cocktail gatherings. looking at upwards $20,000 per month. We are in four different- lo The former Treasury building was cations. Two sets in the Solomon destroyed in January 2014 when a Arcade, some at the Value Mart fire ripped through the structure, complex and there is IT in Craddock burning it to the ground. The fire Road, ” he said. was ruled arson in March of 2014. No one was ever charged. Dore pointed out that some of the special features of the new build- The multi-million-dollar proj- ing are security cameras both inside ect for the new Treasury build- and outdoors, access control to the ing began in October 2017 and building as well as facilities for the was projected to take between disabled. The total area of the space 18-24 months to be completed. is 20,000 square foot. Construction of the building was awarded to LEFCO Equipment Dore said the government planned Rental & Construction Co. to make work on an unoccupied Ltd. Other sub-contracts were building facing the new Treasury also awarded for air condition- “the next phase of development”. ing, plumbing and electrical installation. Dore said the government was con- sidering keeping the roads in the Dore said the Treasury building is front and back of the Treasury as on budget and that he is hoping pedestrian-only walkways and ban- The government says the new Treasury building will be completed on time and on that all substantial construction ning the use of vehicles on them. budget. Inland Revenue to Offer E-Service Platform for Driver’s and Motor Vehicle Licensing

St Kitts and Nevis extended its e-Service plat- Prentice. “The Inland Revenue Department office to collect the decal. form to include e-Driver and Motor Vehicle has taken on board the Honourable Prime registration licensing Friday, making it the firstMinister’s strategic vision to use informa- Register at www.sknird.com for the e-Driver country in the OECS, and only the third in the tion technology to improve the delivery of and Vehicle license services, or visit the of- entire CARICOM region to offer such servic- the services offered to the citizens of the fice at the John Gumbs building on the Bay es, according to Lead Officer for the initia- Federation.” Road. When using the e-Services, complete tive, Oleah Prentice. the form, upload the necessary documents, She noted the initiative was undertaken by pay online and collect the decal and driver’s “Driver’s license holders and vehicle owners the government to make doing business in the license at the office. This is a 24-hour pro- have the ability to complete renewal of their Federation both convenient and easy. cessing period. driver’s license, registration and licensing of new vehicles and renewal of vehicle license The platform eliminates the need to wait in For more information, contact the Inland at their convenience and from the comfort of long lines, an aspect of particular benefit to Revenue Department at 465-8485 extension their home or office or on the go,” said Ms. the elderly, who will only have to visit the 3400, 3406 or 3408. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:19 Speaker: Opposition claims unfounded

By Loshaun Dixon would have apprised yourself of such facts, before penning such Speaker of Parliament an unfortunate and Micheal Perkins accusatory letter to called allegations me,” Perkins said. made by Leader of the Opposition Dr. Denzil “It therefore lies be- Douglas “completely yond my comprehen- unfounded” regard- sion why you would ing the latter’s exclu- have chosen to write sion from the fourth such a letter.” sitting of the OECS Assembly. Perkins said that the authority by which On Tuesday in the members to the OECS National Assembly, Assembly are se- Perkins addressed lected is assumed by the matter by reading the federal parliament Douglas’ letter into the and no resolution to record of the house as the contrary had ever well as his response been passed. calling the leader of the opposition’s claims “Our research shows “misdirected”. that no such resolu- tion was ever passed Early last month, or even considered Douglas in a letter to since the establish- Perkins slammed the ment of the OECS speaker for the exclu- Assembly in 2012. In sion of the parliamen- the absence then of tary opposition from such a resolution I am the national delegation of the view that the that attended the fourth government and the sitting of the OECS Speaker of the National Assembly Michael Perkins called allegations around the selection of the delegation to the opposition can sim- Assembly. OECS Assembly “completely unfounded” ply select their mem- bers and advise the He said the action and I wish with this by yourself, in your ca- of the Parliamentary act fl ies in theSecretariat face of of OECS warranted an apology letter to place on re- pacity as the Speaker Opposition of St. the very democratic Commission.” and a rationale for the cord my displeasure of the National Kitts and Nevis,” said principles of trans- exclusion. and abhorrence over Assembly, to exclude Douglas. parency, openness, Perkins said that had what can be consid- the participation of the responsiveness and been the precedent “This is unacceptable, ered as a deliberate act two representatives “Such a deliberate accountability that the that had been used OECS Assembly was throughout the OECS. created to defend.” “As it stands now, all In his response, Perkins this has absolutely criticised Douglas and nothing to do with noted that the letter the functioning or any which the opposition role of our Parliament leader had sent was or that of me as released publicly be- speaker.” fore a response could be given. Perkins countered that he was the one “I found that to be deserving of an apol- rather unfortunate,” ogy given the allega- Perkins said. tions made against him in Douglas’ let- He called the letter ter were “completely “misdirected” and unfounded”. said that neither the Standing Orders of “I would leave it to the Parliament nor any you and your good legislation specifi es a conscience to con- role for the clerk or sider whether you speaker of parliament should publicly ac- with respect to select- knowledge that your ing the delegation to letter to me was in- the OECS Assembly. deed completely un- founded and I would “I would have thought further leave it to you therefore, honourable to consider apologis- member, that you ing to me.” Page:20 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Bill to expunge The demand for cannabis criminal water outweighing records rainfall

By Kenichi Serino “a fresh start”. “The Byron said it was also rehabilitation of their likely that people cur- records will represent rently serving sen- The National a genuine fresh start. tences for possessing Assembly this week A fresh start to a new small amounts of introduced a bill that job. A fresh start to cannabis could be re- would expunge crimi- new opportunities. A leased after applying nal records for con- fresh start to a U. S. to court. victions of possession visa. A fresh start to of small amounts of be a better example to “I would think that if cannabis, which could a daughter, to a son, someone was incar- also lead to some be- to a family member cerated with amounts ing released from pris- and a friend,’ said of 15 grams or less on early. Harris. they can apply and more than anything The Criminal Records In an interview they would be re- Act allow people con- with The Observer, leased under this new victed of offences Attorney General bill,” Byron said. involving less than Vincent Byron said 15 grams of canna- he did not know how “I would tend to think bis or cannabis resin many people would on first blush they to have their records be affected by the shouldbill apply to court, Minister for Public Infrastructure Ian Liburd has warned that the water demand in St. “treated as spent and saying a closer look at he said. “But we’ll Peters and Basseterre were outstripping supply. the criminal record court records would work that out.” shall, with immediate be needed. By Loshaun Dixon housing boom in St. Peters making effect, be expunged Byron called the the water system inadequate. for a person”. “The data I have got- prospect of criminal ten is varied, said expungement “excit- The demand of water on St. Kitts Liburd said St. Peters has been sub- Speaking in the Byron. “I don’t know ing” but difficult”. is far outweighing the amount sup- ject to rationing from 10pm to 5am, National Assembly, if it is as disaggregat- plied by rainfall, leading to the con- Monday to Friday. In Basseterre, ra- Prime Minister ed as it should be.” “How do you balance tinuing rationing of water in some tioning has been done after “system Timothy Harris people who think we areas. shocks or water loss events with an lauded the bill, say- He said officials should be more lib- aging water transfer system”. ing it was necessary would have to look at eral. But we also have Speaking in Parliament, Minister to give young people individual cases to de- a number of very con- of Public Infrastructure Ian Liburd He warned that residents will have convicted of cannabis cide if a record quali- servative people in said poor rainfall patterns this year unplanned water service interrup- use and possession fied for expungement. our society.” have continued, coming “far be- tions due to line damage including low” average for 2019. from construction. “We have only recorded 10.3 inches “As we look forward, along with the total for the year and this is below addition of a number of wells, plans average,” Liburd said. are presently being developed to replace the aging infrastructure and He said the lack of rainfall has re- develop a more reliable, climate sulted in a reduction in surface resilient water source and the only flow for Wingfield, Franklandalternative and we have is reverse os- Stonefort sources which on average mosis and to reduce automation.” registers combined flows of 800,000 gallons a day but has been reduced He said that there are no other areas by more than 30 percent, leaving around the island that were being the gap to be filled by ground water.rationed. “Our reservoir storage saw drastic Liburd said that as the water height fluctuations throughout the year as drops below operational level, the water demand continues to increase residents of the highest points will against the rainfall deficit against. experience extremely low flow to This affects the surface sources and no water at all but they are hoping ground water recharge systems,” to find a solution quickly said Liburd. “The situation with water we are ad- “The greatest fluctuations occurred dressing and it is imperative on my in the St. Peters and Basseterre wa- behalf to commend the residents of ter system.” these areas for their tolerance level and we can assure them we are do- Liburd said demand is being driven ing everything within our powers to The National Assembly is considering a bill to expunge the criminal records of persons by Basseterre’s status as a busi- address the matter expeditiously,” convicted of possessing small amounts of cannabis. ness and industrial hub as well as a Liburd said. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:21 St Kitts-Nevis Expands Relationship with Canada-Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme

The Department of Labour hosted an orientation workshop Wednesday at the National ICT Centre for 21 per- sons from St. Kitts and Nevis who will be spending the next two years in Canada under the Canada/Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme (CCSAWP). Citizens of the Federation have been participat- ing in the CCSAWP for more than 50 years, but this is the first time nation- als will participate in the two-year programme.

Officials from the government agency placed extra emphasis on helping to prepare the workers for this extended undertaking. SKNIS Photo: Senior Minister Amory addressing persons about to go to Canada. Also in the photo is staff from the Department of The level of support is expected to be Labour and Dr. Analdo Bailey. improved following a July tour of sev- en farms in Canada by officials from Ron Dublin-Collins, and Shermel as it allowed officials greater insightthat will be available for the workers the St. Kitts and Nevis government. Cumberbatch of the Department of into what is required of the workers, while they are abroad. The mission team included Senior Labour. their living accommodations, and the Minister and Minister of Labour, working environment on the farms. A report from the ECLS showed Honourable Vance Amory, Permanent Permanent Secretary Dublin-Collins The team also engaged with nationals that the 2018 Average Net Worker Secretary in the Ministry of Labour noted that the visit was quite useful who are already in Canada on various Earnings/Remittances for farm farms. workers in Canada surpassed EC $27.5 million for six member-states “In the past workers have complained in the Organization of Eastern that ... they would have been very Caribbean States (OECS). The coun- much alone in Canada. That will not tries listed were Dominica, Grenada, be your reality now,” the permanent Montserrat, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts, secretary told the group. and St. Vincent. Figures for work- ers from St. Vincent were more than “You have a support network that will EC $9.9 million – the top listed. St. provide you with the necessary sup- Kitts was listed below half a million port. You will be provided with infor- and was the fifth-ranked of the six mation and they [officials at the St. countries. Kitts and Nevis High Commission in Canada] will be provided information Senior Minister Amory told the where every one of you are, and you orientation participants that: “The will be able to communicate in a more Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is effective way [so that] we can resolve desirous of increasing the numbers problems.” of our citizens in the programme and your success, if you make a success The half-day orientation session of it, if you show you are a good featured presentations from Lucinda worker from St. Kitts and Nevis, Francis, Head of the Employment chances are it is going to be a good Unit at the Department of Labour, testimony for other workers yet not who shared a history of the recruited so you have a responsibil- CCSAWP as well as what is expect- ity to other persons as well.” ed of the workers while in Canada. Alexis Jeffers gave a testimonial of The Minister of Labour urged the 21 the programme, while Dr. Analdo males to “take this opportunity seri- Bailey gave Personal Financial ously. Conduct yourself in a manner Management tips to the group. which does not affect the negative conditions of your work in any way. Two teleconference sessions from As they say in tennis ‘the ball is in Canada gave valuable insight to your court.’” participants. Olaf Fontenelle, Chief Liaison Officer of the EasternTwenty-six persons from St. Kitts Caribbean Liaison Service (ECLS) and Nevis are participating in this discussed “The Worker Experience year’s CCSAWP. The local govern- at a Glance”, and Tara Hodge an offi- ment is exploring opportunities to cial at the Consulate of St. Kitts and facilitate females interested in the Nevis in Canada shared the support seasonal work programme. Page:22 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS BARC opens to assist stray animals

By Loshaun Dixon realities of animal cru- elty on a regional and global scale. Stray animals in St. Kitts will now get a “Many animals are second chance of liv- abandoned and subse- ing a healthy life fol- quently become endan- lowing the opening of gered as they are left to the Basseterre Animal suffer the onslaught of Rescue Centre (BARC). the weather elements, other animals and even The centre is located uncaring humans on a in Lime Kiln West daily basis,” Richards Basseterre and will offer said. animal rescue, health- care and rehabilitation “BARC has the po- as well as adoptions to tential to make a sig- the community, educa- nificant imprint in our tion and outreach local history.”

Mala Weston, one of the Major partner for founders of the centre, BARC include the explained that 20 years Ross University ago when she first got School of Veterinary a dog, it changed her Medicine (RUSVM) in life as she learned how St. Kitts and Adtalem they operated and how Global Education to care for them and it Foundation who will opened a place in her assist in health-care heart for animals. and rehabilitation for A new animal shelter in Lime Kilm aims to get furry friends a second chance at life. the centre. Weston said that she saw animal cruelty, ne- Elizabeth Story of glect and a lack of re- they initially had two unwanted dogs, when pavilion for commu- Shawn Richards spoke RUSVM said that they spect, appreciation for main goals. The firstgiven a second chance, nity events, education at the opening cer- were pleased to support animals and had always was to help reduce the are famous for being the programmes, adoption emony and saluted BARC and are proud of wanted to help on the is- stray animal population most faithful and pro- days and fundraising BARC on behalf of the the valuable work done land but it was difficult through education pro- tective companions. activities. government. so far in St. Kitts and as there was no place to grammes and surgical will support the impor- take animals. sterilisation. The second “All lives matter. Every The second building “I deem it a privi- tant work they are plan- goal was to build an ani- living creature deserves has six kennels with lege to commend the ning to do in the future “I saw that they were in mal shelter. to be treated humanely another 18 to be built pioneers and members need. It is often said that and some times we need as part of the second who have immersed “RUSVM students will everything happens for “We knew we needed a to be an advocate for phase of construction. themselves in one of contribute there time a reason and that noth- dedicated place where those who can’t speak Weston said that pub- the greatest initiatives and expertise and will ing happens before its persons can bring up for themselves,” lic education would relative to animal res- care for the animals time,” Weston said. abused, neglected, stray Weston said. be part of BARC’s cue in our federation,” here at the shelter,” animals to be cared for. mission. he said. said Story. “As luck would have We knew that through Weston said they are it”, Weston met People rehabilitation these now finishing the “BARCfirst wants to help He said BARC is an The land on which for Animal Welfare in animals would have the phase of BARC which by offering opportuni- initiative that is very the centre is locat- St. Kitts founder Dr. opportunity for a better includes two buildings. ties for our youth and appropriate and timely ed was donated by Karen Smithwick-Kier. life and a home,” she In the first building, sheadults to learn about for a local and cul- the late Mr. Kishu The two realised they said. said there are reception animal care.” tural context. He said Chandiramani, owner had similar interests and and examination rooms that many individuals of Ram’s Supermarket, concerns. Weston said She added that stray and along with an open Deputy Prime Minister are ignorant about the to PAWS. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:23 NIA Junior Health Minister delivers address for World Hepatitis Day 2019

The Ministry of Health joined the world in rec- ognizing World Hepatitis Day Sunday, one of eight official global public health campaigns marked by the World Health Organization. World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 ev- ery year to raise global awareness of hepatitis. To mark the occasion, the Hon. Hazel Brandy- Williams, Junior Minister of Health in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) delivered the fol- lowing address: On Sunday 28th July 2019, the Ministry of Health joined with the rest of the world in cel- ebrating World Hepatitis Day. This annual event endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), aims to raise awareness and galvanize efforts of individuals and- com munities worldwide in response to the elimina- tion of hepatitis. This year’s theme is: ‘Invest in eliminating hepatitis’. According to the WHO it was chosen to under- line the importance of local and international funding in scaling up prevention, detection and treatment services, in order to achieve the United Hon. Hazel Brandy-Williams, Junior Minister of Health in the Nevis Island Administration. Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 elimination targets. its potential for spread, high burden on health, appropriately managed to prevent transmission. The campaign this year emphasizes the role of and death. policy makers, health care workers, the general Furthermore, the Health Promotion Unit (HPU) public, media, government and private sector According to the WHO, globally, there are nine as part of its mandate continues to provide the partners in the successful implementation of times more people infected with Hepatitis than public with the necessary information about strategies aligned with elimination targets. HIV, with an estimated 325 million people af- Hepatitis and services available. fected or living with viral hepatitis B and C. This However, WHO recognizes that in order to further emphasizes the urgent need for aware- In commemoration of World Hepatitis Day 2019, achieve the elimination goal by 2030, there must ness and action from all levels of society. the unit executed a public awareness campaign be a major increase in investments as part of based on the following recommended key mes- Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for Hepatitis- Specific investments, by both public and- pri sages for the general public: specific prevention and control services. vate sector, in services that increase awareness campaigns and access to prevention, testing, and ‘Know. Prevent. Test. Treat. Eliminate Hepatitis’. Hepatitis is defined as inflammation of the liver. treatment methods, will significantly help to re- In addition to Pop Up sessions at selected work- It can be caused by viruses, toxic substances duce these burdens. places, during the week of July 22-26, inclusive such as certain drugs and alcohol, and autoim- screening of Hepatitis B and C was conducted. mune disease. The Ministry of Health and Gender Affairs, is committed and continues to invest in the efforts I therefore encourage everyone to There are five main hepatitis virus types, namely of the various departments and programmes Know: the facts of Viral Hepatitis. A, B, C, D and E, which vary in disease charac- within the sector, to ensure that all of us have Educate yourself and others. Information is teristics and transmission. access to information and services geared to- available and our health care workers are always wards the prevention, detection and treatment of ready to assist. - Hepatitis A and E are spread by consump- Viral Hepatitis. This will be further buttressed tion of contaminated food and water. as plans for the introduction of Universal Health Prevent: Prevent Hepatitis. Hepatitis B and C Coverage progress, ultimately eliminating any can be prevented by accepting the Hepatitis B - Hepatitis B and C are spread from person financial barriers to services. vaccine, practicing safe sex, using and disposing to person via contact with body fluids and blood of sharps properly. of infected persons. As part of the Expanded Programme on Immunization, Hepatitis B vaccines are avail- Hepatitis A and E can be prevented by practicing - Persons infected with these two viruses are able and administered to all newborns at birth, good hand hygiene, hygienic food preparation at increased risk of liver disease and liver cancer. then at 2, 4 and 6 months of age. This vaccine is and consumption, and by drinking safe clean also available to the adults at all health centres water. - Hepatitis D is rare and is only present in across the island. some persons with Hepatitis B. Test: Get tested if you are at risk. Additionally, the Ministry, through the Maternal Persons with Hepatitis may have no symptoms and Child Health programme and specifically Treat: Early testing will lead to early treatment while others may experience jaundice or yellow- the Elimination of Mother to Child Transmission and chronic infection can be prevented. ing of the white of the eyes and the skin, dark urine, (EMTCT), is moving toward the elimination of vomiting and abdominal pain. Treatment options Hepatitis B transmission from mother to child. In Eliminate Hepatitis: Our collective efforts will are available depending on the type of virus. preparation, all antenatal clients are offered test - ultimately lead to the elimination of hepatitis by Viral Hepatitis is a public health concern due to ing for Hepatitis B and if positive their infants are 2030. Page:24 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Cause of Brantley fire undetermined: Officials

By Monique Washington congratulated as they did a splendid job in containing the fire The cause of the fire and preventing it from that partially de- spreading to other stroyed the law firm buildings,” Hodge of Daniel Brantley said. and Associates on Wednesday has been Brantley called the ruled as “undeter- fire a “terrible blow” mined” after an in- but said the firm was vestigation by the fire already open for busi- department. ness again.

The fire broke out “While the law firm sometime after 5am on painstakingly built Wednesday morning over nearly three de- at the Juris Building cades has suffered a- ter on Main street in rible blow, I am happy Charlestown. The fire that through the resil- engulfed the part of ience of the committed the second floor of the lawyers and staff there building which houses that the firm is today - open for business and the law firm and in An early morning fire at the Daniel Brantley law firm closed several businesses and part of Main Street in Charles- cludes as one of its town on Wednesday morning. continues to conduct partners Nevis Premier business from its other Mark Brantley. The Observer that au- had an investigation force and experts re- of the law firm which offices in Charlestown,” thorities examined the team that comprised cently trained in arson housed a library, the Brantley said. Divisional Fire Officer fire but could not- de of persons from the investigation and un- contents of which were Garfield Hodge told termine a cause. “We fire department, policefortunately they would destroyed. However, “While I understand have concluded that the central and front that there might be a the cause of the firearea is of the firm onlytendency to speculate undetermined,” said received thermal and as to the cause of this Hodge. smoke damage. fire, I have left the matter squarely in the “They would have ex- He said that the fire competent hands of our plored all factors and took about 45 minutes fire and police services in the end came up to be brought under who have promised with nothing.” control. a full investigation. I await the outcome of Hodge explained that “The fire - offi that investigation,” he during a fire investi- cers should be said. gation four elements must be looked at in determining the cause of the fire. “We have incendiary, we have electrical and two other factors and they were all ruled out. However, it doesn’t mean that either of the four could not have caused the fire. What it means is that our pres- ent capacity in relation to the four-factors does not allow us to give a concrete a conclusion as to what caused the fire,” he said. Hodge said that a fo- rensic expert may be required to do further investigations. Hodge said the fire caused Fire damage at the law office of Daniel Brantley and -As extensive damage to sociates on Main Street in Charlestown. The fire broke the entire back section out in the early hours of Wednesday CMYK ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:25

CMYK Page:26 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:27 Police Camp Promotes Positive Values to Youth

Over 300 registered ceremony. “Camps and Newtown, and activities includes children ages 5-18 such as this not only Byron expressed hope guest speakers from the years old will spend include fun activities those who are not yet Police High Command the next two weeks at a but provide hands on members of any group and community lead- youth camp organized learn-by-doing activi- or an Explorers Group, ers; a train ride on by the Community ties that build capacity would encourage their the Scenic Railway; a Policing National in young people for parents to let them walk-a-thon; fun-day; Intervention Team youth development. join. fire safety; spelling within the Ministry of Through involvement bee; camp march; and National Security. in youth camp activi- “Youth camps such community cleanups ties our youth become as this is one type of The third annual event, equipped and prepared programming that re- “I wish to stress the themed “Building a for future educa- flects an experientialimportance of volun- Better Future with a tional career and life learning model that teerism as a critical Strong Foundation,” successes.” has been shown to part of youth develop- and running from July generate interest in ment programmes,” 28 to Aug. 4 at the Most of the partici- young people and by Byron said. “If we are Dr. William Connor pants are members which they develop to build a strong foun- Primary School, offi- of the nine Explorers varied life skills,” he dation as the theme cially opened Monday. Group implemented said. “Camps such as suggests volunteering under the community this not only include by those in the com- “Youth camps such as policing umbrella. fun activities but pro- munity is of paramount this is one type of pro- Byron noted the Royal vide hands on learn- importance. gramming that reflects St. Christopher and by-doing activities an experiential learn- Nevis Police Force has that build capacity We must train our young ing model that has embraced the chang- in young people for people to cross the gap been shown to gener- ing role of policing by youth development.” that is communicat- ate interest in young enhancing community Through involvement ing across generations, people and by which engagement through in youth camp activi- working with people of they develop varied hosting the camp. ties our youth become all ages, including help- life skills,” Acting equipped and prepared ing older folks in our Minister of National The clubs are based for future educa- community. We must Security, Attorney in Molineux-Phillips’, tional career and life assist the young people General Honourable Lodge, Shadwell, Old successes.” in building communica- Vincent Byron Jr., Road, St. Peters, St. tion, and conflict resolu- noted at the opening Paul’s, Trinity, Cayon, The programme of tion skills.” Page:28 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS NIA Communication and Works Minister pleased with Island Main Road progress

Hon. Spencer Safety Improvement phase of the main Brand, Minister for Project, from Cotton culvert,” the minister Communication Ground to Cliff said during an offi cial and Works, praised Dwellers. visit to the construc- work underway tion site. Monday on Phase 1 “I am very pleased of the Nevis Island with the progress thus A”s you know, in this Administration’s far. We are here in the area we often times EC$6.7 million Cades Bay area where suff er major fl ooding, Island Main Road we are seeing the and we would have Rehabilitation and initial construction had long discussions

with the contrac- which was inadequate danger situation with tor that one of the because of the volume that existing road main objectives of of water that would turning from the this project is to deal come down there main road up unto with the drainage is- and create localised Cotton Ground or ex- sue in this area, and flooding. The water iting [from] Cotton the reconstruction of wasn’t leaving the Ground onto the this culvert here is in area fast enough,” he main road. We are essence to solve that explained “Our de- realigning that road,” problem. signers have come up he said. with a solution. “I am very satisfi ed “If you look carefully with the progress. I We are now installing you will see a new cut think they have been a 2x3-metre concrete into the hill out clos- on site for approxi- box culvert. er to Yachtsman Grill mately two weeks that will improve the and they have made This would alleviate line of sight for traf- tremendous progress the flooding in the fic coming onward. thus far,” Brand said area which would al- Hence the road will of contractor Surrey low the water to tran- be much…safer than Paving and Aggregate sit safely across the it is at present.” Co. Caribbean Ltd. road without causing “And that is a clear in- any flooding or delay Early last week, con- dication that we hope in traffic.” he said. crete was poured for to have this project approximately 80 completed in the very The Project Manager meters of curb and possible shortest time added similar solu- slipper drain at Cliff which is, I hope be- tions are planned for Dwellers. fore Independence.” the Nelson Spring / Cotton Ground area, Also present Michael Morrison, which is also prone for the site visit the contractor’s proj- to severe flooding, were Mr. Denzil ect manager, spoke of where will com- Stanley, Principal the work in an area mence after the up- Assistant Secretary in Cades Bay, which coming Culturama in the Ministry of is prone to major festive season. Communication fl ooding. and Works; and Mr. Morrison also spoke Jevon Williams, “In the area where to realignment and Engineer, the NIA’s we are standing now, changes to the road. Project Manager for there was previously the project. two 600 culverts, “Also there is a LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:29 St. Kitts and Nevis Receives Technical Assistance, Training on Human Traffi cking

The Ministry of National forward and that IOM is poised to Security received technical assis- continue to off er technical assis- tance products aimed at assisting tance and support as you do bring the Federation in prosecuting cases this forward,” International Council of human traffi cking and operation- at the Council of Europe and Traffi c alization of a national task force Offi cial, Lori Mann, said. “It was during a ceremony at the Ministry for me, a sincere pleasure to be able of Finance Conference Room to meet and work with all of you. I Thursday. learned a lot during the process. I hope that you all did as well, and I At the ceremony, the International also sincerely hope that you mobi- Organization for Migration (IOM) lize the drive and the political will handed over a report that out- that is necessary to take those rec- lines “Recommendations for set- ommendations forward.” ting up a National Task Force and Public Awareness Campaign on Ms. Mann said that St. Kitts and Human Traffi cking in Nevis,St. Kitts like other countries, is sus- and Nevis” and a database. Both ceptible to human traffi cking, but were the culmination of a four- noted that there are measures that month-long training programme can be put in place to address with experts in the fi eld ofthis humanproblem. The Federation traffi cking. Wednesday, 20 haspersons already put infrastructure that the handing over signaled the assistance. The United Nations from various ministries and de- in place, including the creation culmination of the phase of the defi nes human traffi cking as the partments were trained to use the of the National Task Force un- project entitled Capacity Building recruitment, transportation, trans- database. der the Traffi cking in Personsand Public Awareness in traffi ck- fer, harbouring, or receipt of per- (Prevention) Act, 2008. ing persons. sons by improper means (such “This project is closing but your as force, abduction, fraud, or co- work is just beginning. We hope Samuel Berridge, Senior Foreign He added that the Ministry of ercion) for an improper purpose that you take the recommendations Service Offi cer in the Ministry Foreignof Aff airs had reached outincluding to forced labor or sexual that we have presented in this report Foreign Aff airs and Aviation, saidthe international stakeholder for exploitation. Page:30 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Nevis’ fishing community receives Argentine cooperation

The government of Argentina held in the atmosphere.” a workshop recently with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), The innovative technique can be used in association with the St. Kitts and as an alternative to corn and soya Nevis Marine Resources Division. meal, two ingredients which are cur- rently imported to make local livestock The Triangular Cooperation Project feed. Currently, nearly all ingredients explores the conversion of unutilized from animal feed are imported, mak- fish parts into safe and nutritious prod- ing it subject to global market fluc- ucts for the consumption of livestock tuations, according to the Embassy of and fertilizer. Argentina. The initiative provides jobs while “We brought in our expert from helping to ensure the food security and Buenos Aires to work closely with reduce the food import bill. the local fishermen and farmers, and to share with them a self-sustainable “Fish silage could also contribute technique of using fish waste as a- re to climate change mitigation as fishsource,” Argentine Ambassador to St. waste currently largely ends up at the Kitts and Nevis, Gustavo Martinez landfill, where it releases methane, a Pandiani, said. “This project is very greenhouse gas 84 times more potent important because it gives Nevis the than carbon dioxide within the first opportunity to reduce the wastage, not two decades of its release and 34 times only by finding ways to use more fish, more potent over a 100 year period,” but also by utilizing the by-products.” Dr. Renata Clarke, FAO Sub-regional Coordinator, said. “Currently 25% of The workshop, conducted by the manmade global warming we are Argentine expert Gustavo Wicki of the experiencing is caused by methane South American National Aquaculture emission. Reduced waste will thus Center (CENADAC), was the first of lead to a reduced amount of methane its kind in the island. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday Friday August 1st, 2019 Page:31 Prime Minister: St. Kitts and Nevis to Reap Early Benefi ts of Morocco Visit

Citizens and residents of St. Kitts of Cooperation Programme be- and Nevis will see early benefi tstween the two countries for the pe- from the recent offi cial visit led riodby 2019-2021. Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris to the Kingdom of “Critical to those would be new Morocco, according to a report he support in the areas of infrastruc- delivered Tuesday to the National ture development, and in particular Assembly. alternative energy. To their credit they boast the largest solar plant in The prime minister highlighted in the world with the capacity of some particular the signing of a Roadmap 700 megawatts of power,” he said.

Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris during Tuesday’s sitting of the National Assembly.

“Through their engagements, study more of our citizens and residents tours have been planned where we must achieve fl uency in several will have both the experts from the languages and of course we have to Kingdom [of Morocco] coming to inculcate in our people a healthy re- St. Kitts and Nevis to work with our spect for culture of other countries local teams here and we will have and of course other civilizations,” study tours of our persons going the prime minister said. back to see what is actually happen- ing on the ground in a wide range of During the visit, the prime minis- areas refl ecting alternative energy ter met with Chief of Government successfully at work.” of the Kingdom of Morocco, His Excellency Saadeddine El Othmani; The agreement also outlined Minister of Foreign Aff airs and cooperation in the areas of ag- International Cooperation, His riculture, health, water and electric- Excellency Nasser Bourita, as well ity, education and human resource as Morocco’s Health Minister, His development. Excellency Anas Doukali. Dr. Harris also had the opportunity The St. Kitts and Nevis delegation to meet with two of the Federation’s also included Minister of Public junior diplomats in Mr. Sheldon Infrastructure et al., the Honourable Henry and Ms. Crystal Mose while Ian Patches Liburd; Permanent in Rabat, who are learning Arabic. Secretary in the Offi ce of the Prime Minister, Mr. Andrew Skerritt; “As we become more active in Ambassador His Excellency Sydney the international market place as a Osborne, and Special Envoy in the world participant and as we enlarge Offi ce of the Prime Minister, His our diplomatic footprint, increase Excellency Ambassador Michael our visa free access to our nationals Powell. Page:32 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday August 1st, 2019 ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS

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