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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019 VOLUME 113, No.15 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

M. V. Gem Star engulfed by flames on Tuesday afternoon.

by DAYLE DA SILVA Augustus De Roache, was a staple provider of transportation — IT WAS A CASE LATE INTO TUESDAY passengers and cargo - between afternoon where hundreds of persons Kingstown and the Southern sought to find suitable location from Grenadines. which to view M.V. Gem Star, engulfed Fire on board the vessel was first in flames, as it drifted aimlessly in the seen and reported on Monday when Kingstown Bay. M. V. Gem Star is near pristine condition. M.V. Gem Star, owned by Continued on Page 3. BISHOP’S MURDER CASE SENT HIGHER BY HAYDN HUGGINS Jack was a 24-year-old last year, shortly after the Security Guard at the time police had received A FORMER SECURITY of the incident. information that he had GUARD of Georgetown will After the Prosecution, gone missing. Enoch was at face a judge and jury in Defence and Magistrate the time residing at connection with a killing reviewed all the evidence Brighton. which attracted widespread and witness statements in Reports are that he was public attention here the case, Browne concluded chopped about his body August last year. that a prima facie case was with a cutlass between 8 Following a paper made out. p.m. August 17 and 10:40 committal procedure at the The body of the Trinidad a.m. August 18 last year. Serious Offences Court last and Tobago national who Attorney Grant Connell week, Chief Magistrate worked here as a Travel represented Jack during Rechanne Browne Agency Supervisor, was the paper committal Anwar Jack – all it took committed Anwar Jack to discovered in one of the procedure, while Senior was a paper committal stand trial for the murder huts at a tourist attraction Prosecutor Adolphus procedure for his matter of Spiritual Baptist Bishop area in Argyle known as Delpleche appeared for the to be sent to the High Ian Enoch, 50. ‘Carib Village’, August 18 prosecution. Ian Enoch was a well-known Bishop of the Court. Spiritual Baptist faith here. 2. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V News 3 THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 3. New ULP candidate for Central Kingstown THERE HAS BEEN MUCH Sutherland was St. Clair Leacock by a SPECULATION that the introduced as the ULP mere 14 votes. incumbent Unity Labour candidate for Central Meanwhile, there Party (ULP) could be Kingstown, replacing was something of a fielding a slate of Beresford Phillips who buzz in the air candidates that includes a contested in 2010. surrounding a number of ‘new faces’, The Central replacement for Sir come the next general Kingstown seat has Louis Straker — election. become something of an incumbent in Central Of the eight opposition New Leeward. parliamentary Democratic Party (NDP) The name of representatives that the stronghold, with St. Clair Orando Brewster party put in parliament Leacock winning there in surfaced as the most at the 2015 general 2010 and 2015. likely replacement for election, at least three of In brief remarks last Sir Louis, though these would have week Thursday, there was no contested in 2001, when Sutherland said, inter confirmation of this at Orando Brewster is being the ULP recorded its alia, “It’s time to put the last Thursday’s rally tipped to replace Sir Louis first victory at the polls. people of Central or since. Straker in Central Leeward. Albeit, of the three - Kingstown first. We don’t Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, have to wait for the pie Montgomery Daniel and to grow for our Wrongdoings in Sir Louis Straker - Sir constituents’ needs to be Louis did not contest in attended to.” 2010, but the other two And as far as stayed the course since Sutherland is concerned, 1991 election 2001. the watchwords of all MONTGOMERY Indications that there politicians should be DANIEL, would be new ULP decency, humility, and Parliamentary candidates, was given honesty, and being so Representative for some fuel when, last inclined, he is confident North Windward, said week Thursday t an 18th of re-taking the Central that the Unity Labour Anniversary Rally at Kingstown seat, last won Party had “credible Dominic Sutherland and his wife La Ferne during Heritage Square, by the ULP in 2010 when evidence” that there last week Thursday’s 18th Anniversary March. Accountant Dominic Conrad Sayers defeated were wrongdoings during the 1998 General Elections when Below: The burnt he lost. remains of M.V. Daniel, while M.V. Gem Star burns Gem Star. speaking at the Unity Continued from Front Page. It continued to Labour Party’s 18th burn well into the Anniversary Rally last the vessel was berthed at the night, and reports week Thursday, said Montgomery Daniel, MP Grenadines Wharf. are that it drifted that he lost by a mere for North Windward, Needless to say, the report of into the area of the 58 seats against the ‘broke’ his silence on the fire caused a build-up of Edinboro Bay New Democratic what he described as vehicular and pedestrian traffic where it showed Party’s (NDP) Monty ‘wrongdoings’ in the on the Wharf. signs of going Roberts, and that the 1998 general election. It appeared that the fire had under. ULP went on to lose been brought under control by With the the election 7 seats to 8. Monday evening, but this was not assistance of Port “Since the petitions were lodged, I have not said to be, as by mid-afternoon Authority vessels much,” Daniel said. Tuesday, flames had reappeared and the expertise of should be forthcoming. The first bit of evidence was that only 14 election on the vessel. local sea captains, the vessel was “The Gem Star has been buried writs were published as opposed to 15, the missing When, by Tuesday afternoon, towed further out to sea on appropriately at sea,” quipped one one being for North Windward. local, supposedly trained fire Wednesday, and was last seen, observer. He said that he contacted Prime Minister Dr officers, dressed in and equipped still above the water, off Ottley Meanwhile, reports reaching Ralph Gonsalves, then the Deputy Leader of the with what appeared to be Hall. THE VINCENTIAN on ULP, who, on contacting the then Supervisor of appropriate fire fighting The cause of the initial blaze is Wednesday evening, said that Elections, was told that the omission of North requisites, were unable to quell yet to be determined, but M.V. Bequia Express 11 was Windward’s election writ was due to human error. the flames, harbour officials speculation moves from an moving to fill temporarily, the Daniel added that there was also evidence which ordered that the vessel be towed accident as a result of welding on void left by the loss of the M.V. suggested that the final list of names published out to sea, so as to prevent any the vessel, to a sack of coals that Gem Star to the service to the contained 21 fewer than the preliminary list. threat to other vessels berthed at was smoldering when loaded and Southern Grenadines. “Remember I lost by 58, but 21 were not there.” the Wharf. which self-combusted and ignited The schedule given for the It was also revealed that individuals under the There was, of course, the fear other cargo. Express is that it will commence a age of 18 voted in the 1998 general elections. that the fuel on board could Checks with relevant service to the Southern “Again, it was said that was due to human become heated and cause an authorities indicated that a report Grenadines today, Friday 12th error,” Daniel told supporters at Heritage Square. explosion. is forthcoming . April, leaving Kingstown at 10:30 Daniel, who is also the Minister of Housing, said Drifting aimlessly in the area of THE VINCENTIAN reached am and returning from Union that he won his seat in 2015, amassing 2,700 votes the Kingstown Bay closest to Rose out, to no avail, for some Island at 4:00pm. — the NDP’s candidate, Lauron Baptiste received Place, the vessel could be seen to indication with respect to this and Further updates on this service 2,300. become engulfed by more and other relevant issues, safe and will be forthcoming. “They can go high, low, to any court — 2,700 is more flames. except to be told that a report more than 2,300,” he said. (DD) 4. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Court Two jailed for vicious stabbing

Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS The following day, Pompey was On the other hand, Joe had several wounds were inflicted in the presence again at the shop and the accused men previous convictions, including firearm of bystanders. JUSTICE BRIAN COTTLE stressed the were also there. and ammunition possession and using In mitigation earlier, the men, who need to protect society, as he sentenced Joe proceeded to behave in an threatening language. He was were unrepresented, begged for two men on Wednesday in connection aggressive manner. The complainant described as a problematic inmate, leniency and said they were sorry, to with a vicious stabbing incident at picked up a stone to protect himself, who was always getting into violent which Justice Cottle responded, “I do Georgetown, about five years ago. but the men attacked and stabbed him activity. His mother, according to the not consider what the prisoners said as Kimani Joe, 30, was sentenced to 14 several times. Social Inquiry Report, said he had a remorse, because they did not accept years in prison while Tyson John, 31, Tyson stabbed him in his back and temper which he seemed unable to responsibility of their actions.” received a term of six years behind shoulder, while Joe stabbed him in his control. He contended that the aggravating bars. throat, despite efforts by the female Persons in his communities factors outweighed the mitigating At the conclusion of a trial at the shopkeeper to subdue them. described him as aggressive, violent, ones. He, however, considered John to High Court Criminal Assizes March 7 Pompey managed to run from the quick-tempered and a menace to this year, a nine-member mixed jury shop, but Joe pursued him, with the society. be less culpable. He referred to the found the men guilty of unlawfully and complainant, all the while, begging Pompey, who was employed as a Social Inquiry Report which revealed maliciously wounding Georgetown him to behave himself and leave him brick builder, is unable to ply his trade that John had a clean record, was held resident Orde Pompey with intent, but alone. because of the injuries. He believes Joe with high esteem by members of his sentencing was postponed pending Pompey tried to jump over a wall would repeat his attack on him if he is community, and that he underwent Social Inquiry Reports. but was too weak to do so. Joe caught released. hardships with his children. Pompey, now 56, suffered multiple up with him saying, “You go see who Wounding with intent carries a As a result, Justice Cottle went stab wounds at the hands of both men, name killer here today”. maximum penalty of life downwards from the 12-year notional who resided at Calder, but had Fortunately, a police patrol arrived imprisonment. sentence, and sentenced John to six girlfriends in Georgetown. on the scene at that time and the Using precedence and sentencing years, but in relation to Joe he went The Prosecution’s evidence revealed accused men ran. guidelines, the Judge adopted a upwards to 14 years. that on January 28, 2014, while at a Pompey was taken to the Milton starting point of ten years and went shop, Joe and Pompey had an Cato Memorial Hospital where he up by two years for both men, as a altercation during which he slapped underwent surgery. notional sentence for aggravating Pompey, left the shop and returned John had no previous convictions Ottley Hall factors. with a cutlass. and based on the Social Inquiry Justice Cottle stressed there was However, the shopkeeper and others Report, was a good candidate for pre-meditation, and multiple stab did not allow him to re-enter the shop. rehabilitation. men on Cop, ex-cop released without charges cocaine WHILE VENUS BAPTISTE, an Wednesday, that a police officer and a $3,000 with one surety, and the employee of Glossy Bay Marina, former police officer were arrested on matter was adjourned to June 7. Canouan, has been charged in suspicion in connection with the Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN charges connection with the seizure of 96 matter, but were subsequently on Wednesday, Baptiste’s lawyer grams of cocaine on that Southern released pending further Grant Connell said, “It is unfortunate OTTLEY HALL residents Joseph Grenadines island, Friday, April 5, a investigations. that you have to charge someone Sutherland and Junior James were police officer and a former police Baptiste had appeared before Chief without full investigation, given the each granted $15,000 bail with one officer, who were also held on Magistrate Rechanne Browne at the possible ramifications when that surety, when they appeared in Court suspicion in relation to the matter, Serious Offences Court on Monday, person is employed.” Monday on charges of cocaine were released without charges. charged with possession of 96 grams of Connell declined to comment possession, drug trafficking, and Commissioner of Police Colin John cocaine with intent to supply. He further as the matter is before the conspiracy. confirmed to THE VINCENTIAN on pleaded not guilty and was granted Court. Sutherland, 52, and Joseph, 48, are charged jointly with possession of 345 grams of cocaine with intent to supply; possession of 345 grams of ‘Field Day’ the drug for the purpose of drug trafficking; and attempting to import the drug. Those offences were reportedly committed April 5 this year at for Traffic Kingstown. The men are also charged jointly with conspiring to commit the offence of drug trafficking. Department The two pleaded not guilty to all Omnibuses came in for special four charges when they stood before exercise was complete, sixty Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne traffic tickets were issued to scrutiny during the Mar 27 – 29 THE PERIOD inclusive of Wednesday at the Serious Offences Court on several drivers for playing loud and period of heightened movement on 27th to Friday 29th March was not only Monday. They were unrepresented. amplified music in their motor the roads. track and field days for young male and The Prosecution did not object to vehicles without the approval of the female athletes here, but it was also a Six omnibus drivers were also bail, but requested suitable sureties Commissioner of Police, contrary to ‘field day’ for officers of the Royal SVG charged with dangerous and reckless and conditions. regulation 31 of the Motor Vehicle and Police Force Traffic Department. driving, with one driver being charged As part of their bail conditions, Road Traffic Act, Regulation 483 of A release for that Department said twice for the same offence. All six the men were ordered to report to the Revised Edition of the Laws of that on those days when the Inter drivers had their drivers’ licences the Central Police Station Mondays SVG. Primary and Secondary Schools and suspended by the Commissioner of and Thursdays, and surrender their Some drivers were issued as many Colleges Athletics Championships Police pending the outcome of the travel documents. as seven tickets each for failing to were held, and when there was a charges. Stop notices will be placed at all comply with the aforementioned marked increase in traffic on the And even as the Traffic Department ports of entry and exit, and they are regulations. roads, especially those leading to and appeals to the driving public to abide not to leave the state without the In addition, twelve omnibus drivers from the Arnos Vale Plating Field, by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Court’s permission. and two conductors were charged for special measures were taken to Act Regulations, the public is also The men’s arrest reportedly carrying excess passengers, arising, regulate the traffic, so as to ensure being reminded that reckless and stemmed from a police action at the for example, from a case where safety and that the traffic laws were dangerous driving will not be tolerated Kingstown Port, April 5. twenty-eight passengers were being being upheld. on the roads of St. Vincent and the The matter has been adjourned to transported in an omnibus that was When the stepped-up three-day Grenadines. June 7. licensed to carry eighteen passengers. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2019. 5. V Regional T&T paint heads for Cuba

TRINIDAD AND market for Trinidad Right: T&T Trade and TOBAGO has expanded paint would create jobs, Industry Minister Paula the range of products it increase exports and Gopee-Scoon (6th from sells to Cuba. generate foreign right), Her Excellency Already accounting for exchange. Tania Diego Olite, eighty percent of the “The Cuban market is Cuban Ambassador to goods from the region significant for us with 11 T7T (6th from left), entering Cuba, the twin million people and Christian Llanos, island republic has added another three million in Managing Director, NSA paint to that list of tourists. Cuba as a Coatings Ltd. and other goods. trading partner remains Executives pose in front Last week Wednesday, important to Trinidad of the container loaded Trinidad and Tobago and Tobago,” Minister with the first shipment paint manufacturers Gopee-Scoon told the of paint to Cuba. ANSA Coatings Limited, small gathering that also loaded a container with included Tania Diego on the cusp of entering over $500,000 worth of Olite, the Cuban Cuba, ably supported by product bound for Cuba, Ambassador to Trinidad exporTT’s Trade the company’s newest and Tobago. Facilitation Office in that export market. Ambassador Olite country. ANSA Coatings is a described the shipment ANSA Coatings member of as an important step in commenced activities to the ANSA Mcal Group strengthening economic enter Cuba over two and was formed as a and diplomatic relations years ago. Construction result of the integration between the two Sector Head of the ANSA of Penta Paints Caribbean countries. She McAl Group, Adam Caribbean Limited and also anticipated an Sabga, indicated that Sissons Paints. Both increase in these access to this new brands are still being interchanges in market attests to the manufactured in the future. quality of its products Trinidad. Toward this end, which was developed in Minister of Trade and Minister Gopee-Scoon Trinidad and Tobago Industry Senator Paula disclosed that local with local expertise. Gopee-Scoon, who companies involved in Christian Llanos, witnessed the event, Information Managing Director of stated that the Communication ANSA Coatings Limited, Government was pleased Technology, surveying, thanked the Government with the company’s recycling and energy, for the support provided. penetration of the petroleum and gas, This expansion, he additional market. construction products, said, would earn foreign She said, in brief electricity and design, exchange which is remarks at the loading transport and shipping beneficial to both the site, that she felt assured and printing and country and the the newly established packaging, ice cream are company. (Source: LOOP News — Caribbean) Barbados to increase airlift from Germany BARBADOS IS EXPANDING ITS REACH in Germany with a new thrice- weekly direct flight from Frankfurt to the Grantley Adams International Airport. Flight LH 5432, which is scheduled to commence on Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Barbados Tourism Monday, Marketing Inc. (BTMI), William ‘Billy’ Griffith is excited October 28, about the new deal with Lufthansa. 2019, will run aggressive than ever in working with on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, our tour operator partners, local using an A330 aircraft which seats up groups such as the Barbados Hotel to 330 passengers. and Tourism Association and Intimate Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Hotels of Barbados, as well as in our Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. traditional and digital marketing (BTMI), William ‘Billy’ Griffith, said efforts,” he said. his organization will be looking to He added that the BTMI will be capitalize on the extra seats the working closely with the Lufthansa partnership will bring. Group on co-op marketing plans to “With the addition of some 900-plus ensure the success of the new service. seats per week, we will be more (Source: Caribbean 360) 6. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V News More CARICOM division

TUESDAY’S VOTE on a National Assembly of Venezuela-related issue at Venezuela who took a the Permanent Council public oath to serve as Belize was not in Venezuela, and offering CARICOM Heads at their February 2019 Inter- level of the Organization of Acting President on 23 attendance. to mediate in the process Sessional Summit in St Kitts-Nevis agreed on a American States (OAS), January 2019, contesting Interestingly, the four toward a peaceful unified position on Venezuela. presented another CARICOM member resolution to the crisis. the leadership of Nicolás by presence of Russian Venezuela’s foreign opportunity for CARICOM states who voted in Coincidentally, some Maduro. troops in Venezuela, member states to favour of the measure, say, the OAS votes came ministry condemned the When the votes were there to give support to demonstrate the extent to were the four who had on the same day St. vote, saying the bloc was cast, St Lucia, Jamaica, Maduro administration. which they are divided on Haiti and the Bahamas attended, on invitation, a Lucia re-affirmed its supporting a coup In the final analysis, the issue. voted in the affirmative, recent meeting with USA position that the against Maduro. The CARICOM while Antigua and President Donald Trump. Caribbean must remain the OAS Permanent “With the illegitimate member states, which Barbuda, Dominica, This most recent a zone of peace, and that Council voted to acceptance of a political are all members of the Grenada, St Vincent and ‘difference of opinion’ there should be “no third recognize Juan puppet ... the OAS is OAS, were called upon to the Grenadines, comes in the face of state intervention” in Guaido’s ambassador — supporting the coup vote to recognize Juan Suriname, joined CARICOM leaders, at Caracas. Gustavo Tarre - as the d’etat plan that began on Guaido’s ambassador as Venezuela in voting their February 2019 This position was country’s official January 23,” the the country’s official against the measure. inter-sessional summit in influenced, it is believed, representative to the ministry said, alluding to representative to the Barbados, Guyana, St St Kitts-Nevis, by President Trump’s organization, with the date when Guaido organization. Kitts and Nevis, and reiterating their position threat to deploy USA 18 votes in favor, nine proclaimed his interim Juan Guaido is Trinidad and Tobago of non-interference in the military forces to oust against, six abstentions presidency. the President of the abstained. internal affairs of President Maduro, and and one absence. Might cannot, must not be basis of right

Statement by SVG/Cuba Friendship military confrontation. additional companies which Society (SVGCFS) In particular, we note and condemn transport crude oil from Venezuela to strongly the latest actions of the Cuba. THE ST. VINCENT AND THE Trump administration in imposing These sanctions, which also apply GRENADINES/CUBA Friendship further sanctions against Cuba and to two firms, based in Greece and Society views with alarm the Venezuela. US Vice President Mike Liberia, are part of stepped-up efforts deteriorating climate in international Pence last week announced sanctions to undermine the economies of both relations which threatens world peace on 34 ships, owned and operated by Cuba and Venezuela. Worryingly, and propels it closer to the darkest the state-run oil firm Petroleos de these actions not only relate to days of the Cold War and global Venezuela (PDVSA), as well as two differences between the USA and these two countries, but also aim to pressure independent countries not to trade with countries with which the US does not agree. It is a blatant attempt to substitute might for right in international relations. We believe that might cannot and must not be the substitute for right in international relations. The USA is free to trade with whomever it chooses, and that must also be the right of all independent nations, Federation which would allow Cuban irrespective of size or wealth. No one baseball players, considered some of country has the right to seize the the best in the world, to play assets of another, nor to deny third professional baseball in the USA countries the right to enter into without having to defect from their relations with whichever countries country of birth. they might choose. It is a retrograde step which not The SVG/Cuba Friendship Society only further contaminates US-Cuba also condemns the announcement by relations, but hurts the players, their the Trump administration that it is families and baseball fans in the USA. cancelling an agreement between the Major League Baseball Association of Renwick Rose the USA and the Cuban Baseball for SVGCFS) THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2019. 7. V News ÂGig up yourselfÊ

NIKALA WILLIAMS, Snapchat, Whatapp, Marketing and Corporate Instagram, Manager of Facebook, and telecommunications Twitter (SWIFT). service provide FLOW, has Williams was Dead fish – the result of poisoning the water in coined a new expression endorsing the which they live. or sales pitch – ‘Gig up activity outlined by yourself’. her institution’s This ‘new expression’ Country Manager - Desist from she applies to her Wayne Hull. He company’s latest cellular outlined the drive as phone plan that gives FLOW’s duty of poisoning our rivers customers up to 10GBs of “making it simpler data. to share.” (Editor’s Note: We are more than happy to carry Speaking at a launch For Hull, “life is verbatim this Release from the Ministry of of the package last about moments,” Agriculture.) Thursday, Williams and the new phase Wayne Hull- Country Manager FLOW and Nikala disclosed that plans brings Vincentians Williams, Marketing and Corporate Manager FLOW, at DURING THE EASTER SEASON, many persons range from one to 10 GBs into the “this digital last Thursday’s launch. attempt to catch aquatic (river) species by of date, and include free wave.” That will be poisoning the water in which they live. to project on the Number with Eastern Caribbean local minutes to call any enhanced by the SWIFT The Forestry Services, in the Ministry of Portability drive which is Telecommunications network and free access package. Agriculture, Rural Transformation, Forestry and expected in May. That Authority, and the to messaging on Hull used the occasion Fisheries, is appealing to the public to avoid the will be in collaboration national use of hazardous substances to capture River Telecommunications Lobster, Crayfish, Shrimp, Fish and other aquatic Regulations Commission wildlife. (NTRC). VINLEC reports cause of Number Portability is Hazardous substances can be: the ability of a “customer a. Any electrical device designed to frighten any islandwide outage of record” of an existing protected or partially protected wildlife; fixed-line b. Any article of any nature which is likely to or mobile telephone num- cause injury to any protected or partially (Editor’s Note: We are ber assigned by a local protected wildlife; pleased to publish the exchange carrier (LEC) c. Any noxious substance for the purpose of undermentioned to reassign killing and or injuring any protected or partially verbatim, as a public the number to another protected wildlife; service.) carrier/service provider. River poisoning is ILLEGAL; it can disrupt the Hull expressed the natural processes of the rivers, streams and ON THURSDAY April will of instilling a “level springs, and may endanger the lives of the people 4th 2019, businesses and of passion to our in entire communities downstream, as well as residents on mainland customer service that other persons who may eat the fishes. St. Vincent were affected will require every Persons guilty of such an offence are liable to a by an island wide outage. employee to be focused fine of two thousand dollars and to imprisonment A system wide outage is on delivering the best for six months. an undesirable event experience to customers.” This is in accordance with Section 29 of the that is usually followed not progress as smoothly caused. (Contributed) (WKA) Wildlife Protection Act No. 16 of 1987. by a thorough as planned, and this investigation. In keeping resulted in an entire with our internal system outage at 12:42 protocol, the pm. investigation to Immediately determine the cause of thereafter, our Technical the incident began teams at the various shortly after power was locations began work to restored to all customers. restore the system in VINLEC’s phases. Customers in investigations have the areas of Cane Hall to revealed that the outage Daphne were the first to was triggered by a series be restored at 1:03 pm. of events which started Other areas across the at 11:59 am. Following country were gradually the routine maintenance restored, with the final of one of our two 15 MVA area being completed at transformers at the 2:40 pm. VINLEC’s Lowmans Bay Power records indicate that the Station, the work teams previous island wide executed a standard failure on St. Vincent procedure to return the occurred September transformer to service. 18th, 2017. However, in executing The staff at St. this procedure that has Vincent Electricity been in place for the last Services considers the 12 years, the system delivery of power to experienced a current businesses and inrush that was notably households a sacred higher than previously responsibility. VINLEC encountered or wishes to advise the anticipated. This caused public that work is a partial collapse of the ongoing to minimise the system which accounted likelihood of such an for approximately 75% of event occurring in the our customers. The future. The Company process of restoring sincerely apologises for power to customers did the inconvenience 8. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 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 Leadership in our time WE ARE AT A PARTICULARLY tell them what they INTERESTING period in our path to want to hear, and over time, they greater political maturation. are unable to engage in honest How NDP Governments treated “ULP” Public Servants Of the two major political dialogue. parties here, one is steeped in the In that milieu, leaders are DURING THE HOMESTRETCH Windwards Unity, Mitchell personality of its leader, and prone to develop what some call to the 1994 elections, I published accepted his application to looks unlikely or unable to shake an imposter complex which, elsewhere a statement as to how join the NDP, and posted him off his pinnacle; while the experts say, are caused by deep ‘ULP’ top public servants him off to Canada to do a other is hell bent on moulding insecurities that may be generally fared in an NDP labour-farm contract job as one into their ‘own image and unmasked, sometimes with administration. well as perform consular services. likeness’. disastrous results. Perhaps the message was lost in the cloud Bonadie took over from Ceford It is as good a time as any, To prove they are not and din of the frenzied election campaign. Providence, a Labour Party card-carrying therefore, to reflect on the imposters, they take to driving However, it seems to have developed a late member who, despite having passed the age question of leaders and even harder to deliver on kick, exciting after the event the hostile of retirement, was granted a further leadership, and why even good promises, so much so that they attention of one radio personality. extension based on his expertise and leaders are wont to lose their become incapable of Time for a re-print with minor changes. experience. way; and to be reminded that all acknowledging their failures, It may not be true, but among the reports It is, however, true that Joel Toney who leaders have a certain appetite, convincing themselves and others being circulated is one which states that the had totally identified with Labour and had albeit in varying degrees, for that these failures are neither ULPites, intoxicated with the notion of always been Stalky’s alter ego, had to give up power their fault nor their anticipated electoral success, have already his post, notwithstanding his insistence that Let’s begin by asking responsibility. drawn up a hit list of the NDP public he was a professional career diplomat. ourselves: Is our situation one in Using their power, charisma, servants whose heads will roll in the new Whatever the generosity, the line has to be which our leaders, some known and communications skills, they dispensation. drawn somewhere! for their integrity and leadership, manipulate people into accepting The reason given is tit for tat, that the With Pompey gone to New York, Prime engage in unethical activities? these distortions and lose touch NDP had carried out a ruthless policy of Minister Mitchell chose as his Cabinet Why would individuals risk with reality. victimisation, and that it was pay-back time Secretary, Mrs Anselma Soso, wife of Hudson secure and rewarding careers It is at this stage, if leaders now. Soso a man who had been a perennial thorn and unblemished reputations for ever get there, that they are most In fact, public servants of every political in the flesh of the NDP regime! the ephemeral gains of a career vulnerable to making big colouration have been allowed to enjoy a Significantly, sons of Labour stalwarts in politics? mistakes, such as violating the politically free career under the NDP, as were welcome in their own right by the Leaders who lose their way law or putting the institutions never happened before. Mitchell Government. are not necessarily bad people; if they are tasked with upholding Let us start from the very beginning. Karl John is the son of Sir Rupert John, the truth be told, they lose their into a state of risk. It is usual in these small communities, foundation deputy-leader of the Labour Party moral bearings when they yield It’s lonely at the top. Yet even if dangerously misleading, to identify and first native Governor appointed on the to the temptations in their paths. many leaders deny that top public servants with the ruling party of recommendation of the Prime Minister We would want to believe that loneliness, even as they lose the day, especially where the current regime Milton Cato. very few people go into political touch with those closest to them - had had a reasonably long run. Karl became Director of Planning, and leadership roles, with an intent even their blood relatives. Labour had conducted government for with engineer Rudy Matthews and financial to cheat or do evil, Eventually, those leaders, fifteen years, 1967 to 1984, minus two years wizard Maurice Edwards, performed at the notwithstanding that we all have looked up in themselves, lose the 1972 to 1974 during the “interregnum” of the highest level of professionalism in securing a capacity for actions we regret. capacity to think logically about PPP- Mitchell Alliance. the necessary capital projects and Why then do some yearn for important issues, for they see It meant that the NDP Government of infrastructure to bring this country near to political leadership? If the only that which their own 1984 had met the top echelon of the public the “take off” stage. honest answers are power, selfishness allows. service with persons who had moved up from Today, Karl John brings his expertise to prestige, and money, leaders are Undoubtedly, leading, the middle ranks during 15 years of Labour. bear on the general handling of the Stabex at risk of relying on external especially national leadership, is The long association often led to the Funds under an NDP government on which gratification for fulfillment; high stress work. There is no way perception that these people were our banana industry, among others, heavily relying on others to gain to avoid the constant challenges “Labourites”. depends. satisfaction and eventually of being responsible for people, In fact, Prime Minister Mitchell was so Randy Cato, who replaced Karl as become self-centred and organizations, outcomes, and impressed by the professional approach of his Director of Planning, and is now seconded to egotistical. Those leaders begin uncertainties in the environment. inherited Cabinet Secretary, James Pompey, the OECS Secretariat, hailed from a Labour to believe in their own press, and This stress can be avoided if that he immediately reposed absolute family by name and nature. believe that that which they lead not confronted successfully if confidence in him. Especially in the area of the public cannot progress without them. leaders reframe their leadership Not only that, within a year or two, the utilities, did Mitchell zero in on brilliant sons Those who seek power, from being heroes to being Prime Minster honoured a promise which of Labourite fathers. prestige and money, fuel servants of the people they lead. Pompey said Milton Cato had made to him, Hobbes Huggins, former secretary to increasing desires for more, to The reality is that people and sent him to New York in a diplomatic Labour and past candidate as well, is father keep it going, as though driven cannot stay grounded by post. Incidentally, Godfrey Pompey, current to Joel Huggins, the Manager of Vinlec which by another desire to overcome themselves. Leaders depend on Cabinet Secretary, is James’ son. in so many ways had illuminated the nation narcissistic wounds from people closest to them to stay In choosing other members for overseas during the Mitchell years. Until a recent childhood. These leaders are the centered. These people, therefore, mission, Miss Cecile Richards, daughter of hiccup, Mitchell and Joel Huggins have got ones likely to breach the ethical are as much responsible for the John Richards who twice ran for Labour in on like a house on fire. standards of which they boast failure of their leaders as they North Windward, was given the nod. And Daniel Cummings, son of Samuel about possessing. are for his success. Dennie Wilson, Labour- appointed Cummings of Kingston Park, a Labour Getting to this point means We have got to be careful that, Speaker of the pre- 1984 House, was also supporter to his marrow, was responsible for losing ground, and often this in ‘never letting the comrade fall’, enlisted in the diplomatic staff in the USA. turning around the dreadful water situation leads to a rejection of the honest or in selling ‘a hand that touches When Burns Bonadie, Labour’s Crown in St. Vincent, and made the local CWSA an critic who speaks truth. Instead, all hands’, we are in fact, not Prince, had been booted out of the Labour example to follow in these parts. Daniel is Party for agreeing to sit at a public interview now a leading MP in the opposition NDP... they - leaders - surround perpetuating a leadership style To be continued. themselves with sycophants who that has already turned in on us. with Prime Minister Mitchell over THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 9. V Letters We under threat Our politics THE CARICOM I WILL NOT, even in Labour Party (DLP) of Tobago. I think, leaders another lifetime, Barbados… a party Panday had even named in understand our politics. founded by the late delivered the the caption Here this: great Errol Barrow. feature address at a were invited Once upon a time, This was convention of the by US the Movement for understandable. After MNU. What President National Unity all, it was the happened? It didn’t Donald (MNU), with which I Barbados Labour take long for Trump to flirted and which was Party (BLP) and its Gonsalves to meet with led by Dr. Ralph leader Tom Adams swallow an old him at his President Donald Trump (right) meets with Gonsalves, was held who kicked Dr. Labour Party pill private Caribbean leaders at Mar-A-Lago, in Palm bent on getting rid of Gonsalves out of and send Panday, mansion in Beach, Florida. From left are Saint Lucia’s the St. Vincent Labour Barbados, where he his successor and Mar-A- Prime Minister Allen Michael Chastanet, Haiti Party. You couldn’t was a lecturer at the the UNC to the side Lago two President Jovenel Moise, Dominican Republic find a more vocal UWI. What of the road, and run weekends President Danilo Medina, Jamaica’s Prime Are we to assume that party and political happened? Gonsalves, and embrace his friend ago. This Minister Andrew Holness, and The Bahamas Gonsalves has (Photo: AP) leader who gave now joined to the St. Patrick Manning and summoning Prime Minister Hubert Minnis. sidelined his friend Milton Cato, leader of Vincent Labour Party, the People’s National must have Denzil Douglas for a and rule’? The unity of the the Labour Party, such shifted and aligned the Movement. I wonder, something to do with their new friend in Harris? CARICOM nations is under a hard time. The ULP with the BLP though, about the support for ‘regime change’ Or is Gonsalves threat. MNU was more which was led by his relationship between in Venezuela. keeping chummy with interested in some sort friend Owen Arthur. current PNM leader Is this not a case of ‘divide Harris from whom he Anon of arrangement with It is said that and Prime Minister - is hoping to get some Mitchell and the NDP. Gonsalves had not Dr. Keith Rowley and bailout money for What happened? taken a liking to the Gonsalves and the LIAT? Naise, naise and moe naise After Mitchell ….. in late David Thompson government of St. You see this politics Gonsalves’ face, Ralph who became leader of Vincent and the thing? I can’t make YOU KNOW, Mr. Editor, I call it music. Is nothing but hug up Labour Party’s the DLP and Prime Grenadines. any sense out of it. doh consider meself a ole bare naise!!! Vincent Beache, the Minister of Barbados. Then, not so long, man… ah in me late fifties. Weekend time use to be for two of them sidelined Some people say that what appeared to be Garnet and Co., N.Y. Bu yoe see some tings dat chuch, ress, watchin sports or Stanley ‘Stalky’ John, while it looks like all the widest possible hapenin here dat dey calling ketching a sea bath. Now is the bona fide leader of smiles in the public, gap between culture, I go ha foe go live putting on ear plugs and the Labour Party, and Gonsalves and Mia Gonsalves and the somewheres else, cause some battening down yoe house. they formed a single Mottley, who ousted ULP, on one side, ah dm tings could neva be my Sometimes you cyar even party called the Unity Arthur as leader of the and Dr. Timothy culture. hear your tv wid all de naise. Labour Party. Now BLP and is now Prime Harris and the I could put up wid some Ah sorry for dem people Gonsalves talking Minister of Barbados, Unity Government xtra naise roun carnival, but who live in Arnos Vale. about making Milton are not so chummy as in St. Kitts/Nevis on is like every weekend now is S, if all dar naise and Cato a National Hero, it looks. the other, has been naise, naise and more naise. partying every weekend is after all he had to say Once upon a time, mended, i.e. if what An it air matter if is tong or Vincy culure, I am not a * Is Curtis about how Cato fell believe it or not, I understand King, recently contree, is naise, naise and Vincy, but yoe still cyar tek short as a leader and Gonsalves and the happened home more naise. way me birthright. retired headmaster Prime Minister. ULP had established recently with Harris of the Grammar Every weekend is some Once upon a time, fraternal relations appearing on a ULP fete, some black-o or some Gettin ole School, set to the MNU and Dr. with Basdeo Panday platform, not a replace Ces Mc Kie thin wid the loudest set a PS. Ah like yoe editorial from Gonsalves had and the United ‘government music you could tink bout. las’ week. as the ULP fraternal relations National Congress platform’, is candidate in West And I tink I biggin up d GO with the Democratic (UNC) of Trinidad and anything to go by. men an dem too much wen ah St. George? * Anybody ever stop to study how Dr. Poor leadership Gonsalves and Dr. The love of $$ Friday are alike? * Which carries more weight in means public crisis THERE IS AN OLD downright greed. politics, victory saying, ‘Money is the root And that is where the among the people LEADERS ARE A lack of proper children with the tools of all evil’. However, I am problem with money is. (i.e. the court of PEOPLE who have leadership inevitably to carry on the work of not one to accept this just Money can solve many public opinion) or knowledge, experience, leads to public good leadership and so. I think the truth is problems in life, but the victory handed down trust, love and catastrophe. As God’s support those in that the love of money is love of it and more and by the court? understanding, just to people, we should work authority. If we do not the real root of all evil. more of it, creates * How come this name a few attributes. to prevent a leadership train them now, they I can’t help but think of problems and temptations. government could However, over the void from forming in would become selfish. this as being the truth, Human life is supposed never tell us with years, I have seen our society. We should People with no when I think of three to be precious, but to some whom they governments, churches, aim to recruit and experience should not women here who recently it seems that their lives negotiating and how and the private sector, appoint the wisest be allowed to run the committed theft of large have no meaning. Why many people they take people and put available candidates for institutions of society, sets of money. else would they fall into negotiate with them into positions a position; elect men especially when they First was the woman at temptation? before they come to where they can’t handle and women with high have no respect for the Customs in Bequia. Then The love of money is some agreement? the work. Most of the moral character and people who carry skills, there was the lady from therefore the root cause of * The latest is this times, these people proven leadership they do not enjoy the Star Garage. The latest is all evil. We need to stop hotel in Mt Wynne. receive these positions, skills. trust of the people, and the cashier at Coreas. this foolishness about Who will be the next because of their support We must they do not possess the I don’t know if it was preaching that ‘money is ghost party we talk of a particular political appropriately reward wisdom of the past. simply a case these the root of all evil’, and to? party. Also, some of people for their faithful Oppressors will women being hitting with start preaching the truth. * Is this fellow these people ‘donate’ to service, and we must abuse the poor. Let us real hard times - like they And this call is for all Donald Trump, the political parties for also support leaders put people in the right were struggling to support government leaders, President of the USA, the same their campaigns, so that when they promote good positions and grow our their families, or it was a church leaders, trade their sons and government and nation. fellow the ULP case of them trying to live union leaders and all government was daughters, who do not prevent social economic well above their means. If those who claim to Bishop Ezekiel Creese trying to get to qualify for positions, and moral it’s a case of living beyond represent people. receive jobs deterioration. Faith Word Ministries invest in Canouan? their means, then that’s nonetheless. We must raise our Roseau nothing else but a case of Simon 10. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Views The Unity Labour Party flexes its Election Petitions: Trial, muscles “Red blood in yo veins” judgment and appeal (Excerpts of Dr. Friday’s Press Introduction Statement)

ON THURSDAY, April 4th 2019, close to ON FEBRUARY 11, 2019, the long- ten thousand members and supporters awaited trial of the election petitions of the Unity Labour Party, answered the filed by two of the candidates for the whistle by their general secretary, New Democratic Party (NDP), Mr. with that decision, and will persevere. Julian Francis, for a march and rally in March 21st, 2019, when Justice Benjamin Exeter and Mr. Lauron The route of appeal has been used the capital city, Kingstown. It was an Stanley John threw out the election Baptiste, began. Evidence presented by successfully by us before, and we will event that captured the imagination of petitions. That illegal protest was led the petitioners’ witnesses and in cross- return to that arena again in our the entire country, as well as followers by Godwin Friday, and was aimed at examination of the Respondents’ continuing and legitimate search for a in the Diaspora on Facebook. disrupting the business activity in witnesses revealed that all was not well just result in the matter. I am hopeful As the spectacle of the Red Kingstown. What a contrast it was! with the 2015 elections in Central that the Court of Appeal will review Machine unfolded, many persons were The Rally was another great event, Leeward and North Windward the evidence and the jurisprudence caught off guard and were surprised. with some progressive addresses constituencies. and come to a different decision from The opposition NDP was in fact shell- coming from Camillo Gonsalves, The evidence revealed many that of the trial judge. We have good shocked at the sight of thousands of Saboto Caesar, Carlos James, Luke irregularities and illegal conduct on reason to hope that this will happen. ULP supporters in their red, Browne, René Baptiste, Montgomery the part of election officials in the Our lawyers have advised us that the marching peacefully in Kingstown, Daniel, and the new kid on the block, conduct of the elections. After several judgment is deeply flawed and that it without creating any obstacles to the Orando Brewster from the days of evidence and cross- presents many good grounds for traffic and the general public in constituency of Central Leeward. examination of witnesses, the trial appeal. particular. By and large, observers Orando Brewster, a product of the concluded, and the parties were Some may say that general were surprised at the number of education revolution, from the Central invited to make oral and written elections in SVG are close at hand and submissions to the Court. This they young people who were marching, in Leeward area, is an exciting young voters can settle the matter their red, a sign of their continued did. It was then up to Acting Justice conclusively in how they vote at that prospect, and many ULP supporters Stanley John to consider all the support for their progressive party. will be keeping their eyes on him. time. So, why appeal? The short While marginally smaller than the evidence, relevant to the cases and the answer is, we must know; the people Then came the address from the arguments of the parties and render 2011 march, the intensity was still must know; definitively that what party leader and Prime Minister, Dr. his judgment in the matter. happened in the 2015 general there. These were supporters of the Ralph Gonsalves, who outlined the As promised, he gave his decision ULP who came out to make a elections was wrong and will not be plans of the ULP administration in on March 21, 2019. To our great allowed to stand. This will give statement, that the ULP was still the period leading up to the period disappointment and, indeed, strong, vibrant and active, in love greater confidence to all that such 2020 and beyond. It was the sort of consternation, Justice John found conduct will not happen in future with the people, and ready for “five in address that endears the Comrade to that, save for the complaint of elections in SVG. a row”. In fact, the slogan “red blood his supporters, taking them from year partiality on the part of election We will do all in our power to in yo veins” was the order of the day, 2001, when the ULP arrived in office, officials in Central Leeward; there ensure that the appeal is prosecuted and showed the commitment of the to the present, with a detour to was “no evidence” to support the without delay. We believe it is critical marchers to the philosophy and 2020/21, and the exciting projects to complaints of the petitioners. With that we have a final decision before strategies of the ULP. come. all due respect to the Court, we in the elections are called again in this And finally it was a massive shock This was a massive showing by the NDP do not agree with that judgment. country. The people need to know that to Godwin Friday and the NDP, who, Unity Labour Party, and is a clear Our lawyers have advised that the what happened in 2015 general judgment of the Court is flawed in since 2016, were laboring under the demonstration that the party is alive elections was wrong and that it will impression that they were gaining many respects and that there are solid and well, and ready to do battle to not stand. Moreover, they need the some traction with the Vincentian grounds for appeal. In the Court of assurance that these illegal and public, and that the ULP was on a ensure a fifth term, when the public opinion, the decision of the Comrade rings the bell. irregular practices by election downward trajectory. Nothing could Court has also been found wanting, officials, many of them who are and the general public sentiment has be further from the truth, but then we Conclusion patently partisan, will not be allowed all know that the NDP is not been critical of it. For the petitioners, to affect elections in the future. In interested in truth and facts, deciding for the lawyers who have ably short, public confidence in our to deal in lies and dirty propaganda. In the face of this display by the represented them, for the NDP and electoral system needs to be restored Even their supporters in the ULP, the NDP, of course, could only for the wider public the matter is not so that whenever there is an election Diaspora, in particular the internet resort to their dirty campaign tactics. settled. After three years of struggle, in this country, they can trust the crazies, were stunned into silence, They launched a massive attack of ups and downs, of highs and lows, system to deliver a proper result that of triumphs and setbacks, the matter having to face the undisputable truth, against the Prime Minister of reflects the will of our people. This is St.Kitts/Nevis, Timothy Harris, remains unresolved. why we must continue with the case. that the ULP is as strong as ever, and The petitioners, with the full likely to gain more strength as the calling him all sorts of names. The Unfortunately, the history of this unfortunate power outage by Vinlec, support of the NDP, have therefore matter has been marked by repeated countdown to the 2020 elections decided to appeal the decision of begins. It was indeed a miserable was also used as part of their delays instigated by the Respondents. propaganda, as some NDP Acting Justice Stanley John to the feeling for the NDP, with the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal. I We hope that the progress of the realization that they are doomed to spokespersons claimed that the ULP support that decision and the NDP appeal will not be deliberately slowed spend another five years in caused the power outage, to get more will, as always, stand firmly behind by the Respondents and that the opposition. people to attend the march and rally. the petitioners, as the parties in the matter will be completed as quickly as And then we have the leader of the matter, and our legal team as the case possible. I wish I could say to you that The March NDP, Godwin Friday taking issue proceeds to the Court of Appeal. Our I am confident that that would with one of the slogans of the ULP, lawyers are in the process of happen. But, sadly, I cannot. I have It took the general secretary Julian “put on yo red and hurt up they preparing the necessary documents to learned from experience over the past Francis, a mere three days to organize head”. Here was Godwin Friday file the appeal. When this work is three years that the Respondent will the March and Rally. This has clutching at straws, trying to state complete, the appeal will be filed delay and prevaricate as much as confirmed him as the political that the slogan means that ULP without delay. possible. But, make no mistake, we organizer extraordinaire in St. supporters want to do harm to When the petitions were filed will persevere and push as much as Vincent and the Grenadines. This is Vincentians who support the NDP. immediately following the 2015 we can to bring the matter to a not good news for the opposition NDP, What foolishness from a man who has general elections; we in the NDP gave hearing before the court of appeal. having to face the combination of Dr. no leadership skills, and continues to the commitment to the people of this As you know, we are not the only ones who believe the judgment is Ralph Gonsalves along with Julian disappoint his followers. The ULP is a country that we would pursue the flawed. The lawyers for the Francis. This combination beat the party of love, togetherness and petitions to their just conclusion. We camaraderie. The ULP has a profound had hoped that the moment would Respondents also think so and have NDP in 2001, 2005, 2010 and 2015, an written to the Registrar of the High amazing four in a row. love for the people of St. Vincent and have been March 21, 2019 when Acting Justice Stanley John delivered Court saying that the decision is Vincentians were pleasantly the Grenadines, individually and flawed and urging that Justice collectively, that is unmatched in the his decision. Sadly, that was not to be. surprised at the way the marchers Despite the testimony of many Stanley John fix it by giving conducted themselves, following the history of the country. witnesses and the cogent and well- additional reasons for his decision. instructions of the police and the ULP One thing is for sure - there is new supported submissions of the This is extraordinary! The people marshals who were on duty, and spring in the steps of ULP supporters petitioners’ leads lawyers, Mr. Stanley who claimed they won the petitions ensuring that there was no as they are more assured that their “Stalky” John, Q.C. and Mr. Keith cases are now complaining that the encumbrances to the general public. beloved party is in fine shape, and Scotland, the Court ruled against the decision of the Judge in respect of the This is in stark contrast to the protest ready for the upcoming election petitioners. North Windward constituency case, is by a rabble of NDP supporters, on campaign. We are profoundly disappointed seriously flawed. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 11. V Views Beyond Inspiration Taking our Troubles, Trials and Triumphs to the world LAST MONDAY, St Vincent and Parliamentarians “Inspiration will get you started on the Grenadines took a small were reminded that if but important step when it international law the journey but it is dedication that became the 179th member of were to have real keeps you going all the way.” Dr. the Inter-Parliamentary Union meaning, concepts Rolph Balgobin, former Executive (IPU). The union is a grouping of world such as non-interference and non- Director of the Arthur Lok Jack parliaments that has a strong emphasis on intervention into the internal affairs of Graduate School of Business, UWI, democracy, the rule of law, peace, countries; independence, sovereignty, Trinidad. process. Writing creates yet another women’s empowerment and parliamentary self-determination and the right of opportunity to sear the new independence. The decision came less nations and peoples to choose their own than two months after our Parliament path to development have to be “BEGINNING IS HALF DONE!” Those knowledge into their consciousness. Those who continue to excel will voted unanimously to join the IPU respected by all peoples and words were regularly pounded into our following a resolution piloted by Speaker governments. heads at the St. Martin’s Secondary testify that they gain tremendous Jomo Sanga Thomas. Thomas noted that for these School when Brother Francis taught momentum by associating with The 140th Assembly of the IPU, principles of international law to have mathematics there. He sought to positive thinking persons; persons which had as its theme “Education for real meaning, major international inspire students to commence their who will provide them with mental Peace, Security and the Rule of Law”, organizations such as the IPU cannot, assignments as soon as they were stimulation to achieve the impossible; was held in Doha, Qatar from April indeed must not simply genuflect to 5th to 10th. A Three-member delegation their vitality and importance while announced. He knew the dangers of they encourage them by example and also by sharing thoughts and various comprising Senators Debbie Charles turning a blind eye or wink at the procrastination. He encouraged us to and Kay Bacchus- Baptiste and Speaker naked aggression of nations, especially develop a “do-it-now attitude”, and learning materials with them. Again, Jomo Thomas represented SVG. the United States, in Venezuela. He regularly reminded us that it would the value of what we hear and see In an address delivered to the body denounced the sabotage directed against serve us well in all aspects of our life. come into play. We must therefore be last Tuesday, Thomas gave a brief Venezuela by rich and powerful Similar views were expressed by Dr. guardians of our thoughts. Our history of our country. He outlined that countries, and called on the IPU to Rolph Balgobin when I invited him to normal tendency is to be negative and at Independence in 1979, the former follow suit. we must therefore strategize to “swim British enslavers and colonialists left An IPU resolution condemned those address a group of my students at our country with only two secondary states that unilaterally impose Arthur Lok Jack Global School of against the negative tide”. This schools and a ramshackle former sanctions and blockages without a Business in Trinidad and Tobago several happens when we read positive books military barracks as a lone hospital. He United Nations mandate. The IPU years ago. These youngsters, pursuing and articles; listen to positive pointed out that at Independence, our resolution also called on all states to their Masters Degrees, were engaged in messages (CDs, audio cassettes, radio country had a functionally illiterate respect international law. The Speaker some healthy discussions on various programmes, etc.); associate with population of over 50 percent, a deep- of our Parliament reminded the IPU aspects of Corporate Turnaround. Dr. positive persons; search out positive seated, but latent racism, where people that only when important bodies like websites (and there are many on the of African stock were despised and itself speak out, would the rich and Balgobin shared some useful insights in light-skinned blacks or whites had a powerful be checked. relation to this topic and, among other Internet). All of these examples of clear and distinct advantage in all areas Speaker Thomas called on the things, reminded the students that habits that we should develop to keep of life. delegates to pay closer attention to the winners in business (and in life in us focused on achieving greatness in Thomas informed the Assembly that reality unfolding before their very eyes. general) are required to create and all aspects of our lives. a mono-crop agricultural economy over Rich and powerful countries, he sustain habits that will enable them to As indicated earlier, we are all the entire period of British colonial declared, cherry pick and single out keep going even as they face a prone to embrace negative thoughts. domination, guaranteed that all of the those nations they want to demonize However, we can take positive actions chronic indices of underdevelopment and destroy. They make their economies multitude of challenges. In other words, still persisted, 40 years after our scream in an attempt to turn away the we need to develop the fortitude to to eliminate and/or minimize their country reclaimed its sovereignty from very people whom the processes are persist in our pursuit of noble goals even impact on our lives. We will always the British. intended to assist, mainly the poor, after life has hit us on the blind side; have mountains to climb and rivers to And then he asked, “What does all of suffering and vulnerable. sometimes knocking the wind out of us. cross. The grass will not always be this history to do with the theme Egregious violators of human rights Inspiration is good. We need to be green. The seas will not always be ‘Education for Peace, Security, and the and the rule of law are egged on and rule of law?” He then answered that we sanitized by these same forces that pick inspired to do exceptionally good calm. Life would be boring if we had no struggles, failures, and/or setbacks. in St Vincent and the Grenadines are on leaders and countries that are trying work. We are also encouraged to look convinced that development is to transform their societies in the for opportunities (and many abound) We are programmed to be winners, fundamental to the rule of law, security interest of the majority. Thomas noted to inspire others to great heights of but this requires that we embrace and peace. that these same forces are a threat to success. But inspiration alone will winning attitudes. We must Thomas told the gathering that the the peace and security of our region. If not do it. Success demands hard work constantly seek to better our best; to system of genocide, slavery and they succeeded in regime change in and “stick-to-it-ness”. This holds true improve our performance with each colonialism instituted by the British, Venezuela, he posited, then all of the guaranteed that our country remained Caribbean would be destabilized. Many in every aspect of our life: business, successive assignment. We must remind ourselves that any obstacle underdeveloped. It was out of this more refugees will cross borders, and academic pursuits, social recognition that the leadership of our our societies will be at the mercies of responsibilities, physical fitness, that we face, every setback that we country worked tirelessly to ensure that those who traffic in illicit guns and relationships, spiritual growth, and so encountered, was overcome by all of CARICOM embrace the concept of drugs intent on benefiting from the on. We all need to develop the skills someone else who went before us; if reparatory justice. chaos and confusion that are bound to and techniques that will keep us fired they can do it, we can too; we must Delegates were told that in 2013, ensue if the situation in Venezuela is up and going after the initial burst of embrace a can-do attitude. And we Caribbean countries proclaimed that the aggravated rather than be allowed to former enslaving nations of England, stabilize. energy fizzles away. How is this must shrug off the temptations to put things off; winners know the France, Spain and Holland had a case Thomas offered historical proof which possible? We can learn from those to answer for their policies of conquest showed that those forces currently who have gone that road before. significance of beginning early … of which resulted in genocide, slavery, terrorizing the Venezuelan government Students will approach me from starting tasks promptly. This is as colonialism and underdevelopment. and people, have no real interest in time to time as they seek to ascertain true for the preacher who prepares a These actions, he told the democratic elections or the rule of law. what they must do to retain that sermon as it is for the athlete who representatives of the world He insisted that these countries were energy and determination that are needs to train for competition. This is parliaments, constituted crimes against the ones that actively supported the also especially critical for students humanity for which there are no military overthrow of the required to do exceptionally well. My statutes of limitation. He then called on democratically-elected government of responses often seek to get them to preparing for examinations. They, the leadership of the IPU to lend its President Salvador Allende in Chile focus on how we take information in; too, will benefit from developing the voice and support to the righteous (1973), Hamas in Palestine (2006), how we learn. Reflect on this for a discipline to be proactive and claims of Caribbean countries for President Manuel Zelaya in Honduras moment: persons learn through their determined as they study various reparations. He reminded the delegates (2009) and President Mohamed Morsi in senses: what we see, hear, smell, subject matter. that a reparatory conversation that Egypt (2013) the illegal and terroristic destabilization of Prime Minister taste, and touch. For those of us who We are encouraged to be inspired resulted in meaningful developmental as we pursue great heights of success. assistance would go a long way toward Michael Manley in Jamaica (1972 to have all of these faculties intact (i.e. assisting with the further education of 1980). He reminded that these same we are not blind or deaf), a significant But we must go beyond inspiration our people and bring much needed countries also supported the legally percentage of our learning comes from and embrace the habits that will development. suspect jailing of the popular Brazilian what we see and hear. Some sustain winning ways. We must As regards the issues of peace, leader, former President Lula Da Silva scientists claim that more than 85% of remind ourselves, and the significant security and the rule of law, Thomas to prevent him from returning to power. what we learn comes through these others around us, that inspiration will said that all Caribbean people were Thomas concluded his address by concerned with the region remaining a warning the gathering of two senses. There is therefore value get us started on the journey, but it is dedication and determination that Zone of Peace. He told the gathering parliamentarians that all of their in teachers (this includes lecturers at that St Vincent and the Grenadines was deliberations would be meaningless the tertiary education level) prepare will see us through to the end. very disturbed by the actions of some unless they can transform their words learning opportunities that engage rich and powerful countries that have into meaningful and sustainable action. these senses. As students write (take Send comments, criticisms & been working overtime to destabilize the notes), this also enhances the learning suggestions to neighbouring Caribbean country of Send comments, criticisms & [email protected] Venezuela. suggestions to [email protected] 12. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Views School of Engineering and

Technical Training needed needed in building our nation’s and SVG NEEDS A SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING building a jail instead of a university generational poverty. A focus on people’s prosperity. As the global and Technical Training to boost our or school of engineering. engineering in SVG will bring economy continues to evolve, economy and create thousands of new There are around 580,000 prosperity to the people. engineering innovations in SVG are jobs. The lack of engineers and engineering companies in the UK. The According to Warrant Officer Ivan needed to make us competitive in the technically trained people in SVG is potential for an engineering industry O’Neal, BSc (Hons) MSc, MBA, since global market. It is only with proper holding our economy back and impedes in SVG is enormous. We have to train Independence in October 1979, our so- investment in an engineering sector, prosperity. our people though. This will help called leaders have done absolutely that we will ever be able to obtain Presently, in terms of Gross Value create many engineering businesses in nothing to drive industrialisation and sustainable growth in SVG. Added, the contribution of engineering SVG. engineering to boost employment and A Green government would build a to the UK’s GDP is 26% — more than As well as boosting the economy, the economy. We have seen the School of Engineering and Technical that of the financial, insurance, retail engineering can create thousands of converse: there is no engineering Training to bring billions of dollars and wholesale sectors combined — technical jobs and thousands of other sector in SVG that can provide into the SVG economy, and create according to analysis by the Centre for jobs in secondary sectors. Starting employment for 15,000 people. thousands of jobs for our people. Economics and Business Research salaries for graduate engineers in the Engineering is a crucial factor (CEBR). UK are around £18,000 to £35,000. SVG Green Party For the financial year March 2015 According to the CEBR, engineering to March 2016, engineering activity in the UK has a wider enterprises registered for VAT and/or employment multiplier effect than The state of our national PAYE in the UK generated 23.2% most sectors, with each engineering (£1.23 trillion) of the UK’s £5.3 trillion job supporting another 1.74 jobs in total turnover from all registered secondary sectors. On top of the jobs consciousness – enterprises. engineering projects have to offer, These figures about the contribution there is a positive ripple effect in other of engineering to the UK economy, sectors in terms of more jobs. In the reflections from Barbados highlight the vast gap in the SVG UK, the engineering sector currently by RONNIE DANIEL intolerance and viciousness that economy. Engineering has the employs 5.7 million people. [email protected] characterises our national potential to be a billion- dollar For any young person wishing to consciousness, and if we don’t devise economic sector in SVG. We must pursue an engineering career, there Part One interventions to reverse this trend, we invest in our young people and build a has never been a better time to train. School of Engineering and Technical Investment in engineering will will not recognise our society in a few Training. bring a much higher yield and rate of AS I CRUNCH the keys to add years’ time. Certainly, some of us may The ULP regime has been a return on capital invested than another sentence to my paper, I not be able to live in such a society. backward-thinking government. anything we will ever see in tourism in cannot help but glance to my left But the truth is, most of us don’t have Rather than invest in our people, it SVG. The focus of tourism in SVG is which leads to an open door with a anywhere else to go. And even if some has chosen to condemn our people by killing our economy and perpetuates panoramic view of the beautiful of us do, half (population and person) Caribbean Sea that surrounds of us would have already been Barbados. I am in Prospect, St. James, damaged from the toxicity of our and so you could imagine the soothing politics. but tempting effect this sight would Consider, therefore, the pain in the have on the human soul. What makes words of Kenroy Johnson, one of the it such a pleasurable distraction is the three teachers who were vindicated in constant movement of ships, boats and the recent judgement by the Eastern jet skis along these pristine waters, Caribbean Court of Appeal, at a press presumably, with happy visitors and briefing held by the St. Vincent and locals alike. It is harmonious and the Grenadines Teachers Union, when infectious. he said, ‘It is as if I found myself in a This idea of the movement on the deep dark tunnel’, to describe his horizon and near the sea shore has experience of the 8 years prior to this given me cause to think about and judgement. Kenroy admitted then that reflect once more on our society. In a he, in fact, as the learned high court real sense, the state of our national judge had pronounced at the consciousness can be seen from the beginning of that case, felt very vantage point of the movement of hopeless in this situation. Thank God waves. Waves are the back and forth for the Courts. And there is no movements of the tides. They are most sarcasm in this ehh! He has reason to critical in helping captains of large be hopeful again. The point is, there ships, fisher folk and swimmers reach are many Vincentians who are their intended destinations safely. dehumanised by the actions of the While knowledge, skills and perhaps state or corporate institutions alike. temperament are without doubt Do we ever stop to think about the important assets in determining impact on the family and what this whether one reaches his destination or means for patriotism, productivity and not, it is also without question that the peaceful order and well-being of how one navigates the movement of our society? If you don’t, I do, and I the waves, will to a large extent decide am sure many Vincentians do think the outcome. Of course, to borrow about these things. some ideas from the Cuban essayist, The picture before us is one in Benitez Rojo, as used by Dr. Steed which we continue to be victims of our Davidson in ‘Islands, Islanders, and own violence to each other. What the Bible: ‘RumI-nations’; Islands like legitimate explanation can one waves are subject to moments of flows reasonably offer for the lack of and interruptions. And given the promotion of a public servant who nature of small Island societies, like continues to serve his country well? St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with How does an employee work for 35 limited natural resources and a years and not be promoted in 28 political system that is by its very years? Well, Forestry Officer, Joel nature divisive, the notion of waves is as unpredictable and a constant source Poyer is either a most terrible of interruption when applied to Island employee or he has been just another states. subject of structural violence by the In a previous reflection with the state machinery over and over again — same title, I made the point that there well, at least for 28 years. How much is a level of national indifference, can a man endure? (To be continued) THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 13. V People/ Congratulations ÂA Match Dr. Ferdinand is Made In Top Lecturer again DR. JULIAN FERDINAND has been 2015 and 2017. HeavenÊ selected as the best Lecturer at the The Top Lecturer is assessed, UWI Arthur Lok Jack Global School of based on evaluation scorers and a Business for 2018. lecturer’s teaching by students, and In fact, this is the fourth occasion on written comments they provide. Popular Vincentian sports on which Dr. Ferdinand has been so In a congratulatory note to Dr. personalities Stanley honoured, having previously Ferdinand, Professor Wayne Hunte, “Luxie” Morris and Dr. received such an accolade in 2014, Academic Director at the Arthur Roxie Irish tied the knot, Lok Jack Global School of Saturday 6th April, 2019, Business, said that students in Brooklyn, New York. speak highly of Dr. Ferdinand’s “quality of Congratulations and teaching materials and the Best Wishes! conduct of lecturers and discussion”’; and described him as “an amazing lecturer who not only taught the course but also life lessons”, and his feedback on assignments as timely, comprehensive and meticulous, addressing both content and writing quality”. The students, Professor Hunte said further, considered Dr. Ferdinand to be “truly an invaluable asset to Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business.” THE VINCENTIAN congratulates Dr. Ferdinand on yet another achievement. 14. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Fashion Vincentian designer featured in regional article DESIGNER Kimya Vincentian Glasgow has been born, Trinidad featured in the raised current edition of Caribbean Caribbean Export’s citizen, DIGEST newsletter fashion published on designer 26th March 2019, extraordinaire. in an article captioned: ‘The ness Fashion Start-Up Poised to have a Take Caribbean Style To great the World’. deal to The article focuses on offer the origins of Ms their Glasgow’s business, the commu- highs and lows of being a nities female entrepreneur in and the world. It’s time technical the Caribbean, and we diminish unnecessary assistance advice to Caribbean obstacles on their path to grants, and women entrepreneurs. success.” support in “Know your worth, she Kimya Glasgow is attending Turning heads with an enticing Kimya’s design. says. Women in busi- currently one of 19 the 2019 participants from around BMEX the Caribbean region in Tradeshow in Barbados. the Caribbean Export The males are not “Empowering Women According to Ms Glasgow, “I may not be forgotten – Male Resort Through Export” QWear by Kimya. Programme - We-Xport. new to the Vincentian During this public, but the move programme, participants beyond being a local or Industry & Commerce, in received business regional brand is a big conjunction with the coaching, participated in leap, and knowledge is Organization of Eastern workshops on access to key when scaling a Caribbean States (OECS) Finance, Angel business. It is not a and Caribbean Export, to Investment, access to sprint, it’s a marathon.” promote trade between buyers, access to Ms Glasgow is also Martinique and the currently a Eastern Caribbean, and participant in is a Cherie Blair TEECA (facilitation Foundation Mentee of Trade Alumni. She has entered Enhancement in the a second round of Caribbean Region) — mentorship in the global a 2-year programme programme that offers a funded by the year of professional French government mentorship to women through the around the world. Martinique (Submitted) Chamber of

A Kimya’s design on parade at Barbados Fashion Week 2017. Resort Wear – a specialty of Kimya’s Design. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2019. 15. V Education/Youth Top CPEA, CSEC performers recognized Performer at CSEC, and from the Girls, High He congratulated all Top Performer in Business School, eleven from the the performers, but and Science. (See separate Grammar School, five singled out the article) from the St. Joseph’s Rremedial Programme Top Female CSEC Convent, four from the for special mention, Performer was adjudged to Mountain View Adventist stating that remediation be Kelcey Allen of the Academy and one from the was an important Girls’ High School, while St. Martin’s Secondary exercise in the school Jolene Douglas (see School passed 11 or more system and must separate article) of St. subjects. continue to be so. Joseph’s Convent Twin sisters Jesse He appealed to Kingstown was the Top James and Jesseica James parents and teachers to Performer after tied for recording the most take note that Bequia Remediation. subjects sat and passed Community High School Christian Gieowarsingh – The top performers in (17). recorded a pass rate of Top CPEA Performer 2018 the other subject In addressing the 76.47% and J.P. as a student of the KPS, disciplines were: Creative gathering, Acting Chief Eustace Memorial now enrolled at the St. Arts/ Performing/ Physical Education Officer - 74.09%. representing Vincent Grammar School. Education - Tamika Elizabeth Walker increases of 25.21% and Gloster of the Girls’ High congratulated the 24.8% respectively. accomplish… that we take School (GHS); Home performers and said, “ It is “It is only right and pride in what others have Economics and my profound wish that you fitting that in a learning done as well,” the Humanities - Chelsea will continue to pursue community like ours, we Education Minister told Kelcey Allen - Top Female CSEC Performer 2018, Glynn and Madison excellent in all that you take pride in what we the gathering. (Stories by is a student of the GHS now enrolled at the Lawrence respectively of do, set realistic goals, KH) SVGCC. Here, she accepts her award from the GHS; Industrial persevere to challenges, Elizabeth Walker, Chief Education Officer (Ag). Technology — shared by and most importantly Ghonta Rawlins of the place your hopes and trust Douglas overcomes THE TOP PERFORMERS in company FLOW. Thomas Saunders in God.” the 2018 Caribbean Primary Christian Secondary School and Country Manager at Exit Assessment (CPEA) and Gieowarsingh, formerly of Savio Davis of the St. FLOW, Wayne Hull told challenges Caribbean Secondary the Kingstown Vincent Grammar School. the gathering that Education Certificate Preparatory School, was The award for School recognizing people for A 17-YEAR- (CSEC) examinations were on hand to collect his prize with the Most Improved their excellent work sends OLD recognized at the Annual for placing first at CPEA. Results was taken by the a strong message and STUDENT, National Awards Ceremony, Makaya Gumbs of the Bequia Community High inspires others to lift their who had her held on Friday 15th April at Georgetown Secondary School while the overall standards, whether hopes of the Lecture and Theatre School, second; Oniel Barroullie Secondary in their education or just attending Building at the SVG Sprott of the Kingstown School, had the Best life in general. “It is also a either the Community College, Villa. Preparatory, third, and Results after Remediation, tested fact that when Girls’ High Parents, relatives, the other top ten and the Girls’ High School recognition is given, this School or the school and education performers were also continued its dominance drives higher performance St. Joseph’s officials and members of recognized. as the School with the at all levels of the society,” Convent the media were on hand to Kyle Dasilva of the Best Overall Results. he said. Kingstown, witness the event which, Mountain View Adventist Students who gained Minister of Education crushed after for the past 15 years, has Academy took the coveted passes in 5 or more St. Clair Prince expressed not performing been sponsored by award of Top Performer at subjects were rewarded for his ministry’s gratitude for well enough in telecommunication CSEC and Top Male their effort. FLOW’s continuous her CPEA (left Thirty-nine students support. exams, has risen above Jolene Douglas ) – Top that disappointment to Performer after become a success story Remediation CSEC 2018 - Da Silva is top CSEC performer of the 2018 CSEC with her mother. exam. KYLE DA SILVA, a former student way to THE VINCENTIAN: Jolene Douglas of Murray’s Village, gained 9 of the Mountain View Adventist “Everybody around expected me subjects at the 2018 CSEC exams to become the Top Academy, is this country’s top to go to the Grammar School Performer after Remediation. performer in the 2018 Caribbean because I actually placed seventh Following her CPEA results, she was placed at the Secondary Education in common entrance so Dr. J.P. Eustace Memorial Secondary School, but was Certificate (CSEC) examination. everybody was wondering why? later transferred to the St. Joseph’s Convent Kyle, the son of Rhonda Honestly it was my friends Kingstown where she had to do remedial work. Sutherland, a teacher at the St. because most of my friends from The extra work which the remedial programme Joseph’s Convent Kingstown, and primary school went there, so I demanded, did not deter her from enjoying a full Hanif Sutherland, IT Manager at wanted to be with them, and also school life. In addition to progressing steadily with her NIS, achieved passes in 16 I am Adventist so the Christian “school work,”, Jolene involved herself in extra- subjects, including 15 Grade Ones educational part of it was also curriculum activities, was made a prefect, and became and one Grade Two, in: Physics, something that I like and was President of the Home Economics Club. Chemistry, Biology, Information used to from primary school.” The young lady is currently enrolled in Technical Technology, Electronic Document It was no easy task handling and Vocational Education Division of the St. Vincent Preparation Management, sixteen subjects, Kyle admitted. and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC). Principles of Business, Office There were times he wanted to She summed up her journey thus far in a Administration, Spanish, History, give up, but credited his staying Kyle Da Silva – Top Performer 2018 conversation with THE VINCENTIAN , saying: “I had Social Studies, Geography, the course to his faith in God, CSEC – with his mother. a very bad start, but at the end, I was successful, and Agriculture, Additional hard work, and support from his I am grateful to my friends and my family, especially Mathematics, Mathematics, English parents, grandparents and his yourself, and no matter what you my mother and my two sisters.” Language and Human and Social girlfriend. do, once you do your best, that is Her advice to other students who might be Biology. He and his girlfriend were what is important.” struggling, is to remain focused. “Never let a bad Kyle was a student of the enrolled in the same class and they With eyes set on becoming a grade make you feel bad or push you from achieving Richland Park Primary School from studied together, which, he said, Cardiologist, Kyle is currently your main goal.” which he placed seventh in his “had a big influence on my success enrolled in the Arts, Science and For being the Top Performer after Remediation in CPEA exam. He opted to remain in as well,” General Studies Division of the the 2018 CSEC, Jolene received a two-year Richland Park and attend the And as far as encouragement to SVG Community College, but finds scholarship to the SVGCC from FLOW, and a new Mountain View Adventist Academy. other young people is concerned, he time for a game of cricket and for Samsung S9 phone with free one- month data plan He explained his decision this said, “Never underestimate cooking. among other prizes. 16. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Security RSS Council of Ministers discuss crime and violence

VINCENTIAN PRIME America, Britain, MINISTER Dr. Ralph Canada, France, Holland Gonsalves is in no doubt and the rest of the as to what is required of European Union, but the Regional Security contended that the System (RSS). “partners helping us are The RSS, he said, just helping themselves.” needs to put plans into The region’s people operation. had a right to enjoy a He made the appeal safe and secure life, Dr. during his address at the Gonsalves asserted, as he opening ceremony of the referenced the 37th Annual RSS importance of the RSS Council of Ministers and the region’s ongoing Meeting was convened co-operation on the here at the matter of security. Beachcombers Hotel, And he stressed on the Villa, last Friday, April importance of preserving 5. “those things that are RSS Council of Ministers, Ambassadors and High Commissioners and representatives of international “We have to take the fundamental to us,” as he and regional organisations met in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the 37th Annual Regional Security decisions and have the blasted “criminals” who System (RSS) Council of Ministers Meeting. will to follow through he cited “want the power with them with all the of the gun.” fears that “guns hold us violence was also and implement both hard understanding between partners,” the Vincentian Persons bent on to ransom,” and have highlighted by Captain and soft responses to the the RSS and the leader added. disrupting society were become “the new Errington Shurland, predicament. Organisation of Eastern In that regard, the deemed “selfish” by the currency,” and lamented Executive Director of the Friday’s opening Caribbean States RSS is a “critical Prime Minister and he situations like “when RSS, when he spoke at ceremony was also (OECS). (See bulwark to our defence insisted that “…we must people are placed with last Friday’s opening. addressed by diplomatic accompanying articles) and security,” the not cower to cowards.” their back against the Shurland noted that representatives from The Barbados-based Vincentian leader Prime Minister of wall,” or where they there has been a partner nations, and saw RSS is tasked with the asserted, and admitted Barbados Mia Mottley don’t know where their noticeable increase in the signing of an responsibility of assisting that effective security of also weighed in on the next meal is coming gun violence with telling agreement for the member territories in the region rests with (the concern for crime and from, and acts of consequences. development of maritime maintaining peace and region’s) co-operation violence desperation occur. He urged the policy- security strategies, and a stability, through with traditional partners She is not pleased The issue of crime and makers to quickly devise memorandum of engagement with partner like the United States of with the gun culture, and nations. Regional security in focus MONICA LA BENNET, the RSS Errington Shurland, Vice President and Director General of the (Operations) Caribbean Organisation of Eastern Development Bank (CDB), Caribbean States Didicus is optimistic that the Jules. Caribbean region can A number of Ambassadors benefit from the gifts of to the Region, and whose nature with which it is countries had input into the endowed, but she is also RSSS, spoke at the opening. aware that the security is United States’ Ambassador of vital importance. to Barbados and the OECS La Bennet was on hand Linda Taglialatela confessed last week Friday, April 5, Linda Taglialatela - to having gained an at Beachcombers Hotel on United Sates’ appreciation of RSS relevance (L-R): the south eastern coast of Ambassador to in its response to the Janet Douglas - British High mainland St. Vincent, for Barbados and the hurricanes in 2017, and of its Commissioner to Barbados/Eastern Caribbean, Monica La Bennet, Vice the opening ceremony of OECS. role in evacuating US citizens. her Canadian counterpart High Commissioner President (Operations) the Regional Security She projected on her country’s Marie Legault, and Ovidiu-Viorel Naftanaila of Caribbean Development System (RSS) Council of involvement in the staging of the EU Delegation to Barbados/Eastern Bank (CDB). Ministers Meeting. the 2019 Trade Winds Caribbean. She exchanged letters Exercise slated to be held here of the cooperation with in June. enhance the region’s ability to “prevent questions of security, as far as respect to Development of Lieutenant General Michael and respond to natural disasters and the Canadian High Commissioner is Maritime Security Plehn, Deputy Military other threats.” concerned. Strategies for member Commander US SOUTHCOM, British High Commissioner to Ovidiu-Viorel Naftanaila, Head of states, with outgoing noted challenges prone to the Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Political, Press and Information at the chairman of the Council - area including humanitarian Janet Douglas proffered that it was European Union Delegation to Barbados Vincentian Prime Minister man-made disasters. He “crucial that we cooperate for the greater and the Eastern Caribbean, emphasised Dr Ralph Gonsalves. pledged to uphold human good of individual countries.” the need for regional cooperation in light That co-operation values, and noted that these She reflected on the depth of of the broad expanse of water included assistance to the Lieutenant General transcend political and humanitarian assistance which was surrounding the islands. tune of US$335,000, which Michael Plehn, national borders. shown in the aftermath of hurricanes But he hastened to add that security La Bennet said was a Deputy Military “We are more effective when Irma and Maria. is not just a regional concern, it had “small intervention,” but Commander US we collaborate and work Canadian High Commissioner to global proportions. “promises big results.” SOUTHCOM. together,” Plehn indicated. Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Naftanaila pointed to his institution’s She stressed the The Deputy Commander Marie Legault highlighted her country’s role in training law enforcement importance of border security, while elaborated on the prospect of the RSS role in airlifting Jamaican defence agencies in this area, including in the acknowledging that there are “enormous taking over roles traditionally personnel to Dominica, to assist in relief area of “financial criminality,” and he marine resources at our disposal.” maintained by his outfit. He is looking efforts following the 2017 hurricanes. assured that the EU will remain a stable A Memorandum of Understanding forward to the RSS Headquarters Aspects of hatred, race, gender and partner in the quest to ensure security (Stories by WKA) was also signed by Executive Director of becoming a Training Centre so as to sexual orientation are linked with for the region. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2019. 17. 18. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12 , 2019. 19. V Arts Rose Hall holds 10th Culture Fest

THE NORTH LEEWARD COMMUNITY of Rose Hall held its 10th annual Culture Fest, Saturday 30th March. Activities were staged both outside and inside the Community Centre. There were: a craft display, sale of indigenous foods, story-telling, folk song singing, drumming recitals, some speeches and an after party that transformed the community center into a concert hall. As far as speeches were concerned, President of the Rose Hall Cultural and Development Organization - Selwyn Patterson addressed the Selwyn Patterson, President of the audience, reminding them that this Rose Hall Cultural and Development was a milestone year, since it marked Organization, delivering remarks. the 10th time that the organization was staging Culture Fest. cultural heritage and to keep Local, handmade jewelry on display at Culture Fest 2019. Pleased with the turnout, he entertainment alive in this small but commented, “This year, our theme is beautiful village,” said Horne. Kenville ‘Fonando’ Horne and ‘Lectric’; drumming groups Rose Hall Youths ‘Culture is Power’, and we’ve seen the He also emphasised the importance singers and poets Denise Dublin, Drummers, Rose Hall Drummers and people from as far as Fancy coming out of sports to combat idleness and boost Mount I, Gello, Egga Kwame; and Resistance Heartbeat Drummers. to celebrate with us.” healthy living, and he thanked all the He expressed thanks to those who parents who have been sending their participated in and supported the children and supporting his event, especially the sponsors, “Who,” programme. he said, “have partnered with us to Former parliamentary make the event possible, so that we representative for the North Leeward can continue to showcase our talents.” constituency, Jerrol Thompson Founder of the Kenville Horne delivered greetings. He also spoke of Sport Academy, Kenville Horne the importance of eating properly, and extended a special welcome to the made reference to the developing visitors to Rose Hall, and commended medical cannabis industry which, he the organizers for staging another said, can only benefit the country. Culture Fest. Among those performing were: Soca “The community needs activities Monarch Champion and North like these so as to enhance our Leeward’s own Delroy ‘Fireman’ Hooper; former Calypso Monarch and cultural activist ‘Tajoe’ from North Windward; storyteller Jen Prince; soca artistes

Those in attendance included non- Caribbean persons who came to learn and enjoy SVG culture.

Jen Prince rendered her stories and folk songs, to the accompaniment of Resistance Heartbeat Drummers. 20. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice Come

clean!!! here? Cautiously Optimistic. Dear George, Dear Cautiously Optimistic I HAVE BEEN a good girl for most of my life until I decided to experiment a little The day you chose to introduce with the same sex. I discussed this with third parties into your relationship, my boyfriend, and he had no problem so I was the day you caused fundamental proceeded. Now, George, I am hooked damage to your relationship with your and, in a bind, i.e. I don’t want to leave boyfriend. my boyfriend but neither do I want to You need to think about what kind leave the girls I’ve been with. of future you wish to have with your My boyfriend thinks I had a fling boyfriend. Straddling the fence will just once. He keeps on telling me he not cut it, and sooner or later you will was glad he let me do my experiment be forced to choose between East and because since then, I have improved West. tremendously in bed. Your boyfriend needs to know He does not know the source of my where you’re at in terms of sexual motivation, and I do not want to tell partners so that he can make a him for fear I will mess things up for decision. the both of us. Your choice is your choice, but in all The way I see it, we both are happy fairness, he should be given the right now, so why try to fix what is opportunity to choose as well. not broken. Am I on the right track George Plead with him

Dear George, this man’s life and realizing the collateral family. He is a man of damage it could cause. MY HUSBAND recently high standing in the Bring this to his found out about the man community and so is his attention so that he I’ve been seeing on the wife. could consider whether side. The truth is, every I’ve pleaded with my or not that is what he time he is away, I would husband not to do this, really wants. invite this man into my but he said it’s either Tell him you wish to house to keep me warm. that or a divorce. My remain married and are I’ve repeatedly warned dilemma is I do not know ready to turn over a new my husband not to go how to choose. leaf with help from a away so often, but he marriage refused to listen and now Tough spot counsellor/therapist. He is upset that I found a needs to see your way to cope during his Dear tough spot, sincerity in wanting to absence. make things better. I did not know that Your husband seems If he would not my husband had a secret convinced that things are entertain pleas to change camera in our bedroom beyond repair; that his mind about fulfilling and he has footage of me exposing this on social his threat, then there is and this man, which he media would force the nothing you can do but is now threatening to put termination of your to pray and hope for a on social media. George, marriage, hurt the other miracle. if he does, it will ruin party involved but not George There is a life after HIV Dear George Dear Shattered, I WROTE TO you a while back about my cheating boyfriend, and you told You may feel like all is lost, but I me to run and not to look back. I did want to assure you that there is life not take your advice; here I am today after HIV. Fortunately, today there with no boyfriend and an HIV is medication available that can help positive status. you to lead a productive life yet. My boyfriend has confessed to me With medication, proper that he knew he was HIV positive but dieting, ongoing support through did not know how to tell me. counselling, you can lead a life that I, on the other hand, had sexual will bring benefit to those around relations with two other men just to you. You can get to add your voice to hurt him, and ended up giving them those who are presently involved in HIV, only because I did not know I waging a war against HIV/AIDS, by had it. encouraging everyone to know their I’m in one big mess right now and status and to do what needs to be do not know what to do or who to done to stop the spread of the turn to. Please do not tell me I told disease. Good luck on your new you so. path. Shattered, George THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 21. V Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21‐ April 20) LIBRA (Sept. 24 ‐Oct. 23) Romantic opportunities will flourish Plan a day of enjoyment with them. You ACROSS through travel or communication. You will get bored quickly, so make sure that would be wise to socialize with as many you have scheduled enough activity to 1. Grassy carpet people as possible. You may be hold your interest. You may want to take 4. Barn‐roof gauge overreacting to personal problems. extra special care of your luggage if you 8. Choir participant are traveling this week. 12. Bother TAURUS (Apr. 21‐ May 21) 13. Freudian forces You can make money if you're willing to SCORPIO (Oct. 24 ‐ Nov. 22) 14. Bell toll push your ideas on those in a position to You may find out that someone is trying 15. Beautiful support your efforts. Minor health to undermine you. Social activity with 17. Frog home problems will cause setbacks if you friends and relatives will be most 18. Metal suit haven't taken proper care of yourself. successful. Try to ease any 19. Identify Your flair for dramatic appeal will disappointment by making amends. Take 21. Comfy room unleash itself at social functions. care of matters involving institutions or 23. Pines (after) government agencies. 27. Petty lie GEMINI (May 22‐June 21) 30. Comedian Knotts Attempt to face key issues with lovers or SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 ‐Dec. 21) 32. Educate problems could escalate. You have been You may find that relationships are not 33. Weaving frame stagnating for some time now and you going as well as you'd like. Work hard on 35. Court romantically need a change of pace. Try not to hurt improving your living quarters. Love can 37. Farm building your partner's feelings. Don't donate be heightened if you sit down and 38. Anticipate more than you can afford in order to discuss your future plans. 40. Dash (off) impress others. 42. Morning moisture CAPRICORN (Dec 22.‐ Jan. 20) 43. Vampire repellent CANCER (June 22‐July 22) Uncertainties about your living 45. Suggestion They didn't fully understand what was arrangements may be unnerving. 47. Agreement 49. Waist straps 10. Khaki color 46. Miles _ hour playlet expected. You are best not to discuss Romantic relationships could be under 11. Ancient 48. Volcanic 53. Pull by rope your personal life with others. Start pressure. You must use discretion when 53. Accurate 56. Sunrise 16. Zeus or substance 54. Feel regret sending out those resumes. Social it comes to lending money or making Mercury 50. Smaller in over events will be favorable. donations. 58. Created by us 59. Morally wicked 20. Came together quantity 55. Vase relative 60. Execute slaloms 22. “At once!” 51. Accept 57. Canine yelp LEO (July 23‐Aug 22) AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.‐ Feb. 19) 52. Humorous Do not react too harshly when dealing Expect to experience a sudden reversal 61. Proceeded 24. Invasion with partners. You can make progress if of fortune. This will not be the best day 62. Bonding strip 25. Cairo’s river you deal with the right individuals. You to sign deals or to take care of other 63. Determined 26. Cold flurries must use discretion when talking to people's financial matters. Keep an open 27. Short banner others. Gambling should not be an mind when dealing with youngsters. DOWN 28. Midwest state option. Some of that extra energy you have 29. Wild hog stored up might just be put to good use. 1. Lengthy narrative 31. Neither hide VIRGO (Aug. 23 ‐Sept. 23) 2. Foul smell _ hair Your need to get away could lead you PISCES (Feb. 20‐Mar. 20) 3. Campus residence 34. Most boring into greater debt. You may want to take Your pilgrimage may end up being 4. Swerved 36. Umpire‐ a look at the personal papers of elders in fruitless. Family members may feel 5. In time past uttered call your family. You will have a little more anxious if you make promises you don't 6. Sentence subject 39. Even score energy than usual. Your tendency to deliver. Try not to upset others with your 7. School composition 41. Eat sparingly SOLUTION overreact could get you into trouble. plans. Rely on the one you love for 8. Seems 44. Military LAST WEEK’s support and affection. 9. Horoscope feline student 22. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Training VINLEC staff receive training in industrial firefighting FOURTEEN EMPLOYEES at The advanced Procedures and St. Vincent Electricity firefighting training Equipment Audits, and Services Limited (VINLEC) allowed the participants reviewed the Incident were involved in a one- to be re-tooled in Command System. week Industrial industrial firefighting Throughout the week, Firefighting training, which techniques so that they the participants were was completed on Friday can skillfully serve as involved in varying April 5th 2019. first respondents to a theoretical and Jaric St. Vincent fire. On the first day, practical courses Limited conducted the participants examined relevant to the Breathing Apparatus, Protective Equipment, Participants and certification training for OSHA and National Fire principles of industrial Foam Appliance and Fire Hose Handling, LPG facilitators in a photo staff stationed at diesel Prevention Agency firefighting. Some of Application, Dry Complex and Rescue and after a practical training Power Plants throughout (NFPA) Standards, the these pertinent courses Chemical Agents and Live Burn Practice. exercise. the country. Chemistry of Fires, Fire were Self Contained Application, Personnel The firefighting occurs. practical sessions focused These sessions are in on fighting different keeping with VINLEC’s types of fires, namely thrust to operate in a electrical fires, safe and healthy work flammable liquids fires, environment. In 2018, a combustible metal fires firefighting simulation and fires from ordinary was conducted at combustible products. Lowmans Bay Power The advanced Plant as part of firefighting course is Environmental Health expected to strengthen and Safety Awareness the Company’s readiness month, in conjunction and ability to respond to with the local Fire fires at the diesel Power Service. Plants, if such an event

Some of the participants in a classroom session. Lineman certification programme (level 3) ongoing A GROUP of eight Linemen at St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) have commenced Level 3 of the CARILEC Lineman Certification Programme. The programme is a self-study programme with some traditional classroom instructor-led sessions. It was designed by the Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction (ISPC) and tailored to suit the needs of Line workers who operate within member countries of CARILEC. CARILEC is an association of electric utilities, suppliers, manufactures and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean. During this level titled, Specialties Certification - 3A Underground Cables & 3B Transmission De- energise, the participants will examine areas such as underground distributions systems, safety in underground distributions systems, cables, cable terminations/splicing and troubleshooting faults. They will also be required to complete field assessments at various VINLEC sites. The next level of the course, Level 4 - Journeyman 1, prepares Linemen to do hotline/live work using the glove method. The programme has been accredited by the Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction and the Caribbean Association of National Training Agencies. The first cohort of ten began the Lineman Certification programme in 2013. The Level 1 programme was titled Distribution for Linemen Basics, while Level 2 was Distribution for Lineman Advanced. The trainees in this cohort are Rodney Duncan, Mowai Latham, Junior Campbell, Brian Deane, Dillon Scotland, Dwight Roberts, Lonnie DaBrell and Les Malcolm. This Level 3 programme is expected to last for approximately nine months. (Contributed) V THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 23. First TT Champion of Champions a success

page.) When the competitive element of Participation, the Tournament was complete, St. opened to Under Lucia headed the medal count with 16 male and four gold, three silver and two female players, bronze medals. came from They took gold as the Overall schools in St. Girls Teams Champion; in the Lucia, Grenada Doubles Girls category with the pair and host St of Juelle St Clair and Zarianne Vincent and the Anthony; in the Mixed Doubles with Grenadines. Zarianne Anthony and Saneil Competition Bernard; and Zarianne Anthony who was held in male trounced all competitors in the Girls’ and female Singles. teams, mixed Not to be outdone, St. Vincent and doubles, male the Grenadines copped three gold, and female two silver and five bronze medals. doubles, and The gold medals were accounted male and female for by: the St Vincent Grammar singles School (SVGS) Team 1 who emerged Grenada’s representative team. St. Lucia contingent with the Girls’ MVP Zarianne Anthony (2nd from left). categories. overall team winners among the boys; Mirac Creese / Michel Creese in the Doubles — Boys; WHEN THE CURTAINS CAME DOWN and Akeil De Roche in the Boys on the inaugural Inter Secondary Singles. Schools Table Tennis Champion of Leading local Junior Girls’ Champions Tournament last Sunday, player - Leah Cumberbatch April 7, at the West St. George continued to impress with two Secondary School, Belair, organisers silvers and one bronze. were buoyant with satisfaction. Her silvers came in the Girls The Tournament, considered a Doubles when she teamed with ‘brave step’ by host SVG Table Vedel Charles, and in the Mixed Tennis Association (SVGTTA) headed by Orville Haslam OD, Doubles playing with Akeil De proceeded, from all reports and Roche. The bronze came in the observations, without any major Girls Singles. hiccup and/or unnecessary And there was nothing but interruptions. applause when Zarianne In fact, the host came in for Anthony was announced as the Leah Tournament’s Most Valuable high praise from visiting officials, Cumberbatch – Player among the Girls, and for the manner in which the SVG’s Top Tournament progressed, and for Akeil de Roche as her counterpart among the Boys. Female Junior the step taken to inaugurate a Player. tournament for the young table Akeil De Roche – Most tennis players from the sub-region. Left: St. Vincent Grammar School team 1 – (See accompanying article on this Valuable Player among Boys’ team Champions. the Boys. Visiting officials praise SVGTTA highly to Sunday, saw the the OECS Champion of Caribbean,” Greene participation by school Champions tournament in commented. teams from St Lucia, full train, will add a boost “The standard of play Grenada and host St to the respective countries’ was high and I was Vincent and the local schools’ tournaments, surprised in the players’ Grenadines. as it provides an ability to loop the ball In lauding the opportunity for the …This type of exposure SVGTTA’s initiative, winning schools to was good for them … Now Derrick Destang, the represent their country at they have to go back home Manager/Coach of the St the sub-regional stage. and train”, she informed. Lucia team, assessed that Looking ahead, he Greene noted that it was a good outing for proffered, “It all depends participating in the them to gauge where their on the other countries Champion of Champions’ Table Tennis at the following suit, and if that Tournament was a Alison Greene the head Under-16 age group happens, all will be fine.” worthwhile experience; Derrick Destang - matches against others. Sharing similar that it has given them an Manager/Coach of the of the Grenada “I know it was the first sentiments was Alison “insight” as to their St Lucia team. contingent. one, but for me, it was Greene, the head of the standings against players extremely successful…The Grenada delegation. of the same age at the THE EXECUTIVE OF inaugural OECS Inter- standard of play was “The initiative was a OECS level. THE ST. VINCENT AND Schools’ Champion of extremely high… Getting really good one; even for Both Destang and THE GRENADINES Table Champions Table Tennis them to play, getting them that age group, because Greene expressed thanks Orville Haslam – Tennis Association Tournament last weekend, to learn to interact and now we have invested in to the SVGTTA’s executive President of the here at the West St (SVGTTA), under socialize in a competition them … We know that in for giving their respective SVGTTA, giving remarks President Orville Haslam George Secondary School, setting was wonderful,” the next four years, they teams, the opportunity to OD, has been praised for Belair. at the closing ceremony Destang said. will be the future to showcase their young of the Champion of its foresight in staging the The Tournament which Destang believes that participate in the Table Tennis talent. ran for three days, Friday Champions Tournament. 24. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN V Sports SVG to go it alone at Junior CASA 2019

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES will Kevin be competing at the 2019 Junior Hannaway- Caribbean Area Squash President of the Association(CASA) Tournament, set for SVG Squash Trinidad and Tobago, 14th to 19th July, Association and as a single unit. the OECS This was confirmed by Kevin Squash Hannaway, President of both the SVG Association. Squash Association and the OECS Members of the SVG Junior Squash team in training at the National Squash Squash Association. Squash Centre, Centre. “The decision was taken to have the “has been countries compete as individual rather cancelled,” The OECS Senior Tournament is a Nadira Morgan (Girls Under-15); than as an OECS unit,”, Hannaway Hannaway added. precursor to the Senior CASA Mikhail Quashie (Boys Under-17); disclosed. He however did not deny or confirm Tournament, which is scheduled for Jada Ross (Girls Under-19) and Over the years, players from St whether the cancellation was a one-off Guyana, 19th to 23rd August. Rashid Constance and Kai Bentick Vincent and the Grenadines and the situation, or that this was the end of Meanwhile, the Vincentian Junior (Boys Under-19) British Virgin Islands have accounted the Junior OECS Tournament. Squash squad selected will continue Othniel Bailey and Amber Glasgow for the greater part of the OECS And while the OECS Junior its training in preparation for the have been assigned as coaches. contingent. Tournament has been shelved, regional tournament in July. Prior to the formation of the OECS Now that the SVG will compete as a Hannaway informed that the OECS In training are Jayden George, Dru Squash Association, St Vincent and single unit, this weekend’s planned Senior Tournament, planned for St Samuel and Roshawn Paul (Boys the Grenadines had competed at both OECS Junior Tournament, which was Vincent and the Grenadines from 4th Under-11), Ciara George (Girls Under- the Junior and Senior CASA levels, as to have been staged at the National to 6th June, “will go ahead.” 13); Jayden Williams (Boys Under-13); a single entrant. Under-13 football final today

BEQUIA UNITED and each from Imani Miller, defeat, with Gage Leslie, Camdonia- Chelsea will Esric Cruickshank and Teurs Telemaque and contest the final of the Juemar Luke, accounted Zesuron Gordon getting Under-13 Division of the for Camdonia- Chelsea’s the goals. SVGFF National Club 3-2 win over System Meanwhile, Championships set for Three. Camdonia- Chelsea had today Friday, at the Zebian Cunningham a 4-0 win over Hillview. Victoria Park, at 4:00pm. and Barrack Barbour Rolando Andrews scored North Leeward in the final of the SVGFF Camdonia – Chelsea The teams earned the netted for System Three. two, and Juemar Luke Predators will square off Knock Out Cup. right to the title match Before punching their and Emron Gill, one following semi-final wins tickets to the final, each. last Saturday at the Bequia United and Preceding the final, Campden Park Playing Camdonia- Chelsea had Layou and System Three Easter Junior Tennis Field. to overcome their quarter will battle to determine Gage Leslie netted the finalists also last the third and fourth lone goal, as Bequia Saturday. places. winners decided United edged out Layou Bequia United handed Following the Under- one- nil, while a goal Parkside Rollers a 3-0 13 Final, Je Belle and THE WINNERS of the Zachary Mc St Vincent and the Lawrence taking Grenadines Tennis the Boys’ Under- Association’s Easter 10 title. Junior Tennis Yasmine Tournament were Sandy pouched decided after the six the Girls’ Under- days of action on the 12, and in that courts of the National same age group Tennis Centre, at Villa. among the Boys, Emerging as Girls’ Angello Morgan Under-10 champion was proved to be the Sarah Foster, with best among his peers. Steadysha Xareah Byron and Suri Penniston Noel claimed the won Girls’ Under- the Under-18s Mixed 14 title and Division title. Afi Lucas — And, the pair of the Boys’ Xareah Byron and Suri Under-14. Noel won the Girls’ Lucas also Doubles. Afi Lucas Twenty- seven players and contested the Steadysha tournament, which Penniston ended last Thursday. Bequia United THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 25. V Sports Northern Stars advance to semis FRESH OFF HIS double century (211) and a three- at 145 from 45 overs. wicket haul two weekends ago in the NLA First Division French Verandah SVG Community College batted Sunday League 50 overs, Shamon Hooper again shone first and made 147 all out off 37.1 overs, Rayshorn brightest for Jules Anthony Northern Stars last Durrant top scoring with 37 and Shamon Hooper weekend, when he put in another commendable all- turning in the enviable figures of 4 for 18 off 8 round performance for his team. overs. In fact, his performance was primarily Julius Anthony Northern Stars responded with responsible for ensuring a 145 off 45 and were awarded victory on the basis of Grenada seals semi-final place for his their par score being 122 when play ended. team. Shamon Hooper, opening, led his team’s batting In the match played with 45. Cricket title against French Verandah The other quarter final match between Ruddy’s SVG Community College at Electrical Unique Warriors and Police One, the Sion Hill Playing Field, scheduled for last Sunday, was abandoned without a GRENADA SENIOR men’s cricket team sealed the Northern Stars registered a ball being bowled. The pitch at Arnos Vale Two was 2019 Windward Islands tournament when they 23-run victory. deemed too wet to allow play. played to a draw with home team St. Vincent and Julius Anthony North This match, according to the SVG Cricket the Grenadines last Wednesday. The Spice Leeward Northern Stars Assocviation Inc. will be re-scheduled. Islanders owed their victory to that outright won by 23 runs when play Two quarter finals will be contested this victory sealed against St. Lucia at Cumberland ended, North Leeward par weekend. Keegan’s Bequia XI will play Victors Playing Field Sunday. score was 122 and finished Two at Arnos Vale 2 from 10:00 am, and Edward Set 296 for victory, the St. Lucians folded for Conliffe Coreas Distribution Ltd Belfongo take on 93, wrecked by Denis George 4 for 16, supported Shamon Hooper continues Smashers at Sion Hill from 10:00 am. by Sherman Lewis 2 for 20 and Daryl Cyrus 2 for to make a difference with 32. Shadrack Descarte, 25 not out, batting at both bat and ball. I.B.A.ALLEN number 10, spared his team total embarrassment after being 67 for 9. He and Dillan John threatened the unthinkable. But with the target Three Vincies almost out of reach, the 26 run stand was way short. Grenada scored 146 in their first innings, in WÊwards balanced by Lindon Lawrence’s 56. Larry Edward 4 for 21 was the pick of the St. Lucian bowling. St. Lucia fell for 115 in their response, with U-15 squad Junior Henry 26. Sherman Lewis 3 for 10 and Darel Cyrus 3 for 18 were the chief wicket takers for the Grenadians. Grenada raced to 274 for 7 in THREE VINCENTIANS are debutants, while their second outing, thanks to Denis George 61, will team up with their Wilson is in his second Johann Jeremiah 58 and Andre Fletcher 57. Windward Islands year at this level. George and Jeremiah staged a third wicket 109- counterparts to represent The full squad reads run partnership, after which Jeremiah linked with the Windward Islands in Divonie Joseph (Captain Fletcher in adding 72 for the fourth. the Cricket West Indies and wicket keeper), Grenada secured first innings points over (CWI) Under-15 Stephen Pascal (Vice Dominica also at Cumberland. Dominica was Tournament, to be held captain), Luke Wilson, dismissed for 122. Alick Athanaze 31 was the top in Antigua from April Kervyn Gangadeen, striker in an innings wrecked by Imran Joseph 5 11th to the 21st 2019. Reshown Lewis, The three are off- Deshonte Thomas, for 18. Devin Tyson. The three Vincentians spinner Luke Wilson and Mahid Lambert, Solomon The Grenadians blasted 312 for 7, with Denis Windward Islands will selected to the batsmen Solomon Bascombe, Royce Paul, play their first game Windwards U15 Cricket Smith 100 and Jeremiah 99 sharing a fifth wicket Bascombe and Rashawn Jelani Joseph, Stephen 197 run partnership. against the Leeward squad (L-R): Rashawn Lewis. Abraham, Kevin Gassie, Islands on April 13th. Lewis, Solomon Dominica reached 150 for 2, with Jerlani Bascombe and Lewis Shawnil Edwards and Robertson 76 when the match ended. Bascombe, Luke The Grenadians suffered a blemish of sorts I.B.A.ALLEN Wilson. when the Vincentians were dismissed for 364 off 73.4 overs. At 250 for 8 at one stage, the Marriaqua T20 Vincentians were in danger of conceding first W.S.G. Schools T20 innings points. But Keiron Cotty 105, and Obed McCoy 32 rallied in a 96 run ninth wicket Softball continues final this weekend partnership which earned the points. EXTREME STRIKERS, TK Autobody and Paint Dillon Douglas 56 and Romano Pierre 67 shared Garage Challengers and Israel Bruce Smashers BDO BELAIR GOVERNMENT SCHOOL and a fifth wicket 59 run stand which took the score to chalked up victories in the Marriaqua Softball KPMG Belmont Government School will meet in 172. But it was the Cottoy/McCoy combination Cricket Competition on Sunday, in matches played the final of the 2019 KFC West St. George Primary that made the difference. at the Richland Park playing field. Schools T 20 Cricket Competition this Saturday, Grenada at 22 for 0 in the second innings had In the first match, Extreme Strikers beat Dr beginning at1:00pm, at the Belair Playing Field. done enough to seal the championship. Thomas Injectors by 4 wickets. Dr. Thomas The pair contested last year’s final, with BDO Desron Maloney was the star of the Vincentian Injectors, batting first, scored 140 for 7 from 20 Belair registering a convincing victory. squad in the drawn encounter with Dominica. overs. Extreme Strikers replied with 143 for 6 KPMG Belmont will be going all out to turn the Maloney hit 104 in his team’s score of 206 for 4. wickets. Maxford Ashton of Extreme Strikers hit a tables and register their first lien on the coveted Sunil Ambris 66 was the other big knock. The match top score of 64. KFC Challenge Trophy. Dominicans reached 201 in their first innings, In the second encounter, TK Autobody and Last weekend matches at the Dorsetshire Hill with Kevin James 67 leading the batting. Kenneth Paint Garage Challengers beat Owia Strikers by 9 Playing Field and the Belair Playing Field were wickets. Owia Strikers batted first and were shot Dember 5 for 59 and Darius Martin 3 for 25 were rained out. The affected teams were awarded one out for 57 from 17.3 overs. Kamara Penniston took the main wicket takers. point each. 3 for 3 in 3 overs. TK Autobody and Paint Garage Thus far in the competition, there have been five Alick Athanaze enhanced his claim for Challengers replied with 61 for 1 from 17.4 overs. reselection to the Windwards squad with an (5) half centuries, one century and six occasions Bristnol Scott was not out with 38 runs. when a bowler took four or more wickets in a single innings of 102 in his team’s 287 for 8, to follow his The third match saw Israel Bruce Smashers 5 for 69 which helped to restrict St. Lucia to 203. innings. defeating Moznet Strikers by 62 runs. Batting The top individual performers and the winners of Jamaal James 68 and Larry Edward 41 were the first, Israel Bruce Smashers made 154 for 2 the Knockout and League components of the main strikers for St. Lucia. declared in 15 overs. Moznet Strikers in reply competition will be presented with prizes and managed a mere 92 from 17.3 overs. Linson Peters A place on the Windwards outfit is the best awards at the Closing Ceremony following took 3 wickets for 17. chance of exposing oneself to the regional Saturday’s final. selectors. I.B.A.ALLEN . I.B.A.ALLEN 26. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019. 27. V Classifieds

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019 VOLUME 113, No.15 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 GOVERNMENT, RAINFOREST SEAFOODS SIGN AGREEMENT by DAYLE DASILVA The Jamaican-based company, with plants in Belize and The Bahamas, THREE YEARS in the making, but on April specializes in the export of sea food 10, the government of St Vincent and the (especially lobster and conch) to Grenadines and Rainforest Seafoods out markets in Europe and Asia. of Jamaica officially closed the deal, Caesar said that he visited the setting the framework for the Rainforest Seafood operations in establishment of a projected Jamaica, and studied its operations in EC$20million a year sea food industry. Belize before advising on the The agreement is in keeping with agreement. strategy by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries’ plan, inclusive of Meeting the demand establishing an agro-export strategy initiative. And although the project has had a A plant to serve sea food industry long gestation period, Minister of will be located at Calliaqua. Finance Camillo Gonsalves said that it Agriculture and Fisheries Minister was a significant event in having the Saboto Caesar, speaking at the signing company here. ceremony at the Argyle International “We have been discussing the Airport VIP Lounge on Wednesday, possibility of Rainforest Seafoods further noted that the goal was to establishing a plant here in SVG for ensure that the export arm of some time now, and it took a while Minister of Finance Camillo Minister of Agriculture Saboto Caesar production was put in place. longer than we anticipated to get Gonsalves described the project as alluded to having done due diligence “We went around not only to everything put together in order to “game changing” and poised to of the operations of Rainforest. stakeholders locally and within the make it happen,” he said. bring real revenue. OECS, but also throughout According to Gonsalves, there were Rainforest Seafoods, Brian Jardim CARICOM,” he said. two stereotypes: the first that fisherfolk in the country were pleased said that the decision to come to SVG with fishing to make enough to cover was encouraged by the construction of petrol, feed the family, and some cash; an international airport which allows the second, a major “rapacious for easier access for live product to conglomerate” that comes into the leave, and the relationship that country and extracts, leaving very developed between himself and the little. agriculture minister. This arrangement, Gonsalves He admitted that the industry was assured, was different and could not yet aligned to the European change the fishing industry, especially Union’s (EU) standards, but that they since the numbers have indicated that were going to build a facility that was fish landings and value were up. EU compliant. But there was one constraint — the And companies like his, he said, ability of fisherfolk to meet the were able to pay fisherfolk much more demand. by offering live product, or debut “It is not the availability of fish, and product. now with a behemoth like Rainforest Jardim referenced the work done in Foods, the constraint is not going to be Belize where they have been operating demand, the constraint will be how for about seven years, and where they well our fisherfolk are equipped to have helped to improve the lobster meet this growing demand,” Gonsalves industry — changes in methods of said. harvest and the export of live product as opposed to lobster tails only. Improving the industry Similar work has been done in The Bahamas in the one year or so that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of they have operated, Jardim said, adding that the intent was St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister the same here, i.e. to Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and Chief Executive Officer improve the industry and (CEO) of Rainforest Seafoods, Brian Jardim the livelihoods of those exchange signed copies of the agreement. involved. Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.