FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.28 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50

Prison diary Where lies the Featuring Relocation Diagnostic mystery police force? Nadia Huggins process begins tests concerns Page 4 Page 10 Page 12 Page 13 Page 24

by DAYLE DA SILVA Parliament on July 6 raised by the Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday, during the DESPITE THE MANY EXPRESSIONS to the July 8 Meeting of the House. contrary, Prime Minister and Minister of Dr. Friday told the House that there were National Security Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has numerous allegations of incidents where the stated that the police exhibited extraordinary police were said to have manhandled the restraint during the protests that were held on protesters who had gathered outside July 6. Parliament. The issue of what transpired outside According to Friday, he was informed of an incident during which a protester was While leader of the Opposition Dr. Godwin Friday pushed by two members of the Rapid (right) gave indication of possible police Response Unit (RRU), aka the ‘Black misconduct during the July 6 street protest in Squad’. Kingstown, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves lauded the police for their restraint. Continued on Page 3. 2. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V News 3 THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 3. Dr. Friday distances party from comments

OPPOSITION LEADER, Dr Godwin Friday The assassination of has disassociated the New Democratic President Jovenel Party, and by extension himself, from Moïse (left) and the comments that appeared on social serious injury to his media suggesting that what transpired wife has aroused in Haiti ought to happen here. some unworthy That country’s President, Jovenel comment and Moïse , was shot and killed at his references on social private residence on July 7. His wife media here. was injured in the attack. Caribbean or In a Meeting of the House of elsewhere. Assembly on July 8, Prime Minister “So any attempt to Dr Ralph Gonsalves referred to online try to suggest that comments that, “…have been referred this is an inclination, to me saying that they want to see…. or some position that they want those who did the killing in the NDP may wish to Haiti must come to deal with the advance, it is totally dictator in St Vincent.” false, wrong- headed Dr. Gonsalves said that while he and ought to be was live on radio on July 7, he stopped in this received a text message that what House.” (DD) occurred in Haiti was what happened to people who wanted to hold on to power for too long. According to Gonsalves, there was concern for his safety by members of ‘Police showed restraint,’ PM his family based on those social media postings and what he had been Continued from Front Page. informed through intelligence. how it was done. Police Station, and that he The conclusion on Tuesday “Because he recognized was subsequently is that the police acted with “I simply said nobody intimidates He said that the officers the danger and the transferred to patrol. extraordinary restraint in me, and I’m okay,” he said. were said to have pushed unnecessary use of force Dr. Friday called for the all the circumstances,” he This prompted the Leader of the the protester dangerously that was being exhibited Prime Minister to look into continued. Opposition to disassociate his party close to an open drain, there, and you would think the matter. The prime minister said from any affiliation to individuals or putting him in harm’s way. that that was the end of it,” “Because I don’t know that the restraint was such groups promoting the message. Continuing, Dr. Friday Friday said. how on one hand you can that there was a vehicle Dr. Friday, in his response said he was informed that The Opposition Leader encourage the which was alleged to have condemned the killing in Haiti as an another officer, allegedly a said that he was told that professionalism of the police broken down and which abhorrent act, one that the NDP sees Special Services Unit (SSU) the SSU officer was in fact and here you have an remained blocking the road in any way as a model for guidance for officer, approached the reprimanded by the officer… exercising his for a period of time, before it any actions here or anywhere in the scene and told the RU Commissioner of Police on judgment as a senior officer was moved away. officers, that that was not his return to the Central in a situation and then his That matter was being actions get collared by investigated and therefore the fact that his he was not able to comment mother calls into further on that incident. Dry dock too costly to repair NICE Radio and that (The driver of that vehicle he is from Bequia,” has since been charged) THE OTTLEY HALL MARINA thrust of the Leader of the He said that he had AND SHIPYARD is still 2,500 Opposition expressed received many reports from functional despite there not being tonnes with some a number of different a dry dock. which put vehemence. sources about the actions of The other aspects of the an extreme But Gonsalves said members of the police force. facility, so much so the repair of pressure that he was not going “But I will caution the vessels service, staffed by 28 on the 104 to question the Opposition Leader not to Commissioner of accept the word of a employees, generated EC$800,000 lock down Police about any in 2018. bolts, and policeman who was transfer of any officer. transferred by the This information was disclosed in the “I was hoping that Commissioner from one unit by Senator Julian Francis, weakened we didn’t get into a Minister of Urban Development, state due discussion about what to another.” Airport, Seaport, Energy and the to 25 years was heard that And while Dr. Gonsalves Grenadines Affairs; in response to of transpired on said he told the Commissioner that matters a question from Leader of the corrosion, The ship repair facility at the Tuesday (July 6), Opposition Dr Godwin Friday, in half of the bolts on one side because several of a security nature was in Otlley Hall Marina and Shipyard his domain and he, as prime Parliament on July 6. failed,” he said. is operational. incidents were drawn Francis was asked about the When this happened, the dry to my attention by minister, was not in a Ottley Hall Marina and its dock was ruptured, Francis told observers and also by position to tell him what to said. operations following the collapse the Parliament. the police,” Dr. do, he also reminded the But the facility was still of the Marina’s dry dock in 2019. Regarding repair work, Francis Gonsalves said. Commissioner that persons functioning although it needs In his response, Francis said that there were several “And I would not had the right to protest some clean-up and upgrading. explained that the collapse was options available but none of them speak to any of those peacefully and within the Francis did state, however, that caused by corrosion which would be cheap. reports as framework of the law and the advice is not to touch the weakened the steel structure of “The repair of the dry dock will authoritative other that he did not support any repair of the dry dock at this time. the dry dock. absorb 80 percent of the repair of than to say that they police officer beating a (DD) “When empty, there was an up the cost of the entire shipyard,” he were what I heard. peaceful protester. 4. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Court Prison diary mystery in officer’s case Stories by HAYDN HUGGINS next Tuesday, July 20 to accommodate out for years, and if need be, he will September 24, the retired Superintendent. ask the Court to summon the 2019 and October RETIRED Superintendent of Prisons When the trial resumed on individual who made that reference. 2, 2019, ‘did agree Brenton Charles is expected to be Wednesday, with Lead Investigator Connell did not say who that with Veron Primus recalled to the witness stand in the case Assistant Superintendent of Police individual was. that a course of of Prison Officer Louis Cupid. Elgin Richards taking the stand, Chief Senior Prosecutor Adolphus conduct shall be Cupid is on trial in connection with Magistrate Rechanne Browne granted Delpleche said he had suggested to the pursued which if the 2019 escape of murder accused an application by Cupid’s lawyer, Investigator that Connell be allowed the agreement was Veron Primus from Her Majesty’s Grant Connell, to recall the retired to make an application for the retired carried out in Prison, Kingstown. Superintendent to shed some light as Prison Superintendent to be recalled accordance with The matter has been adjourned to to what happened to the diary for the to the witness stand to shed some his intention, will prison dormitory where light on the issue, as the Investigator amount to the Cupid was working, could not provide any answers. Commission of the during Primus’ escape Connell, while agreeing to make offence of escaping Retired Protestor slapped between September 29 that application, indicated that it was lawful custody’. Superintendent and October 1, 2019. unfortunate to have to upset Brenton Primus is of Prisons Connell reminded the Charles’ retirement, and have him awaiting trial for Brenton Charles. with traffic charges Court that he was recalled to the witness stand, because the November 2015 granted an application the Investigator has admitted he knew stabbing death of A 38-YEAR-OLD WOMAN of for disclosure of the nothing about the diary which has the 36-year-old Real Estate Agent Georgetown/Mt. Grennan has diary, but to date there record of the area he is investigating. Sharlene Greaves of Dorsetshire Hill. been slapped with six traffic has been no disclosure. According to Connell, that diary He was reported missing from Her related charges, in connection Connell said that ASP will tell you who, when, where, what Majesty’s Prison, Kingstown around with the blocking of the road Richards, as the Lead and why with regard to Primus’ 10 a.m. on October 1, 2019. He turned during a protest July 6 Investigator, should go escape. himself in at the Central Police outside the House of Assembly on oath and say what he Cupid has been charged with, Station around 2 p.m. the same day, which was in session. did with regard to between September 29, 2019 and accompanied by attorney Jomo Koreen Ballantyne, said to locating this diary, in October 2, 2019 in Kingstown, ‘being Thomas, a few hours after the police have been a participant in the order to facilitate the employed in the public service in St. had issued a wanted bulletin for him. protest, has been charged order for disclosure, and Vincent and the Grenadines as a Primus was taken before the with, being the driver of if the diary doesn’t exist, prison officer did, in abuse of the Serious Offences Court the following PD962, failed to remove that he must say so. authority of his officer, an arbitrary day where he pleaded guilty to vehicle when requested to do so by a Koreen According to Connell, act prejudicial to the rights of the escaping lawful custody, and was police officer in uniform, when the Ballantyne it is public knowledge Superintendent of Prisons, to wit, sentenced to 16 months in prison. vehicle was placed in such a position that reference has been conspired to aid in the escape of Veron Cupid is on suspension pending the so as to cause obstruction to the free flow of made to the dormitory Primus from lawful custody’. outcome of his matter. traffic. diaries not being filled Cupid is also charged with, between Ballantyne is also charged with driving that vehicle without being the holder of a driving permit, and driving without insurance. She is Magistrate lauds lawyer additionally charged with playing a musical instrument without the written permission of the Commissioner of Police, causing unnecessary CHIEF Magistrate Rechanne lawyer, he would have ended up age, no previous convictions, his obstruction to traffic, and causing inconveniences Browne has lauded attorney with a tougher sentence. remorse, and corporation with the Grant Connell for his sterling She pointed out that the police. to the public in exercise of their rights. mitigation plea on behalf of his maximum penalty for gun or All six offences were reportedly committed on She told Laidlow, “You are still client - Mickel Laidlow of Old ammunition possession in the young. You have an opportunity Hillsboro Street, Kingstown around 4:45 p.m on Montrose. Magistrate’s Court is seven years July 6. to redeem yourself.” Laidlow had changed his plea in prison, and there are In mitigation, Connell told the Ballantyne was summoned to appear in Court to gun and ammunition charges sentencing guidelines which she on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to the from not guilty to guilty on must follow. Court that the gun was never charges when she stood before Chief Magistrate Monday, and was sentenced at Laidlow did not receive the full brandished, that his client Rechanne Browne who was presiding over traffic the Serious Offences Court on one-third reduction in sentence cooperated with police, and was offices at the Serious Offences Court. Tuesday, to two years and two for his not guilty plea because it extremely remorseful. Attorney Israel Bruce is representing her months for possession of a was not entered at the first He noted that the gun was Ballantyne who will return to Court on August 11 homemade firearm, three months available opportunity. found in the “bosom” of his client’s for trial. for possession of a 12-guage He was instead given a one- bedroom during a police search on As the frenzy among the protestors heightened shotgun ammunition, and one tenth reduction. In addition, he December 4, 2020. on July 6, they took to pushing the steal month for possession of 498 grams benefitted from a further one- He suggested that in light of barricades, placed in front of the House of of marijuana with intent to month reduction in sentence, for the present situation with supply. good behaviour. Assembly building, to the ground, and blocking COVID-19, non-custodial vehicle traffic on Back Street. The sentences are to run Browne found no aggravating concurrently. factors in relation to him or the sentences could be imposed, with The police had to move into action to maintain those sentences being possibly on law and order. But the Chief Magistrate told offence. However, among the Laidlow that had it not been for mitigating factors in relation to the lower end of the sentence the strong mitigation plea by his the defendant she highlighted his structure. Two charged with forging vaccination card TWO MEN will return to the accept as genuine, and by reason Serious Offences Court July 23, in of so accepting it, to do some act connection with the alleged or not to do some act to her own forging of a vaccination card. or any other person prejudice, Jeffton Lewis, 30-year-old clerk contrary to section 242, Chapter of Diamond and Gabriel Hutchins, 171, revised edition of the laws of 47-year-old Chef of Harmony Hall, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Gabriel employed in Mustique, are 2009. Jeffton Lewis charged with making a false The offence was reportedly Hutchins instrument, to wit, a certificate of committed between January 1 a COVID-19 vaccination in the and July 10, 2021 at Stubbs. Wednesday, and name of Gabriel T. Hutchins, with The men pleaded not guilty the matter was adjourned. They the intention that Hutchins when they appeared before Chief were represented by attorney should use it to induce Gail-Ann Magistrate Rechanne Browne at Grant Connell. The men are out Pierre, employed at Mustique, to the Serious Offences Court on on station bail. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 5. V Diaspora Relief group reaches Relief volunteers celebrating a successful completion of home a first phase in the relief drive to aid SVG.

stretch much-needed assistance during these organizations, community leaders, supplies will be shipped soon. challenging times.” block associations, schools and other In addition, the relief coordinator She expressed “tremendous thanks” individuals, “who have said 29 power-washers, 28 hoses, 325 to volunteers, elected officials, participated/contributed in one way or cots, 23 wheelchairs, nine wet vacuum hospitals, faith-based organizations, the other to ensure that Phase One of machines, nebulizers, and other small businesses, non-profit our relief drive come to fruition.” medical supplies for each clinic in St. Vincent and the Grenadines — courtesy the Red Cross USA and the United Parcel Services (UPS) — were shipped during Phase One. UPS air-lifted these supplies, Arthur said. She said donations, including monetary, were received from hospitals, faith-based organizations, small businesses, community leaders, block associations, schools and other individuals. Phase Two Verna Arthur, the chairperson of the Brooklyn-based SVG Relief USA, Inc. Arthur said Phase Two was recently kicked off with a fact-finding mission Story and photos by to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. NELSON A. KING The two persons charged with the [email protected] responsibility to carry out such US CORRESPONDENT mission are public relations officer Atiba Williams and member Garnes VERNA ARTHUR, the chairperson of the Byron. Brooklyn-based SVG Relief USA, Inc., the “The purpose of this mission is to main relief organization in New Yok that assess the situation following the coordinates relief for volcano-ravaged St. volcanic eruptions,” added Arthur, Vincent and the Grenadines, says the disclosing that the team is currently group has reached the “home stretch” of conducting meetings and interviews, Phase One with the relief drive. and is visiting and assisting in the “It was remarkably successful,” hard-hit areas. Arthur told THE VINCENTIAN on Additionally, she said the team is Sunday, stating that the Friends of compiling a “needs-list” from Crown Heights Educational Center, participating organizations. which was the hub of relief efforts in “Our organization is the trusted Brooklyn, is “back to a state of messenger in New York for SVG relief equilibrium. efforts, and we are happy to have “Thanks to Vaughan Toney (the established a continued relationship president and chief executive officer) with NEMO (the local National for providing the space, and has Emergency Management indicated it is available whenever Organization), as well as forging new needed,” she said. relationships with SVG Red Cross Arthur disclosed that the Association, Lions South, Rotary “remarkable success” of Phase One South and the Salvation Army,” resulted initially in the dispatch of Arthur said. nine commercial bins with Personal “The decision to expand our reach Protection Equipment (PPEs) to and partner with these organizations address the COVID-19 pandemic in St. was an excellent one,” she added. “By Vincent and the Grenadines. doing so, we continue to help NEMO “This was our first donation prior to tackle areas other than the shelters the effusive eruption of the La and alleviate any extra burden due to Soufriere Volcano,” she said. limited staff. As Phase Two progressed, Arthur “It is heartwarming to receive said four 40-ft containers — with a reports from the organizations (Red variety of items, including non- Cross, Lions, Rotary and the perishable food, personal hygiene kits, Salvation) expressing how pleased medication, infant supplies, female they are to receive items, and of such sanitary products, water, cots, quantity,” Arthur continued. “These clothing, wheelchairs and buckets — organizations are doing herculean were also shipped home. work, while sacrificing their personal She said another container of lives and families, to ensure that our brothers and sisters are receiving the 6. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Views

The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Managing Editor: Desiree Richards Editor: Cyprian Neehall Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129 Website: www.thevincentian.com Email: [email protected] Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd., P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines. Editorial Right to

debate and robust disagreement on key issues — issues that Who to blame? Jerry Mole still at it. protest affect the national good, the (First published in THE VINCENTIAN OF pariah government, which declared Small a institutions of state and the Friday 31st July, 2014,) “IF WE ALLOW TOO MANY rights of the citizenry. And that political opponent who was to be shut out restrictions on the fundamental said democratic society must of all government jobs, including those Editor’s Note: We will continue to reprint which were created at Carnival time, an right to protest, we silence the accept protest as a big part of some of Dr. Kenneth John’s earlier THIS voices of many in our society, outcast in his own country. this process. WEEK Columns, until such time as a Small sought comfort in opposition particularly those who may have So, regardless of whether suitable replacement columnist is limited other means for making leader Arnhim Eustace, and they became protests are loud and disruptive, identified.) close friends at the time that Small fatally their views known.” Canada – they are crucial to our well- Charter on the Right to Gather and collapsed from a heart attack, many being and to protecting the IN HIS PUBLICATION ‘Ruler in believed owing to political pressure. Protest. freedom that our society Hairouna’, the author, George Thomas, Funeral was arranged according to This is a truism to which, we provides. sought to warn us of the way our politics S.D.A. rites, replete with a list of speakers assume, all political parties here Yes, we have the right to vote was headed with the emergence of the that did not include the Prime Minister, subscribe. every five years, to make a smart-men politician fast-talker, who could who attended the services to the muffled Neither the New Democratic decision about our future in a make rings around the heads of his adoring expressions of the N.D.P. fans who knew of Party, during its 1984 — 2001 few minutes in a polling booth. followers and in particular his religion as the sour relations between both men. administration, or the Unity Protests go further: they provide being used for political purposes. In the order of the service when Arnhim Labour Party during its the opportunity to express our Jerry Mole could sway the masses with Eustace rose to pay tribute, he was administration 2001 — present, views and concerns in the his glib talk and at funerals in particular, interrupted by the intervention of a church sought to introduce legislation interim between elections. he could produce a flood of tears on cue, elder, who explained that his position was that would infringe on this right. That is why, no police force, even if he happened not to know the dead! being taken by the Prime Minister, who They might, according to not the Royal St. Vincent and The modern Jerry Mole can be quite had been requested to do a tribute by a whom you speak, use other the Grenadines Police Force, sophisticated, “learned,” even brilliant family member of the deceased. means to ‘beat back’ protests, should be encouraged, should especially in his use of the English Members of the N.D.P. had difficulty in like the current use of the Police feel it has the right to see a language, but the message remains the hiding their utter disgust in witnessing against a protest mounted here protestor, loud and peaceful, same, guileful and tailored mainly to the their own hero, Arnhim Eustace, bested at recently. throw him to the ground, hurt aggrandisement of Papa and his chosen the funeral ceremony of a trusted friend Whatever the measure(s) used him, then arrest him, all in the family. and supporter, in favour of Ralph, who had to quell protest, citizens of this name of preventing what that To go back directly to eulogize and their up to the time, regarded Saluche as an arch country have the right to gather police officer perceived to be a role in funeral services, specifically within enemy. and to protest… a right potential act of violence the Anglican community of which I am a In their eyes, they saw willful political enshrined both in the principles Let’s us agree that a non- member, it was the controversial Dean interference in a private (non-state) of democracy and furthered in violent protest is moral and Ulric Smith, who wished to excoriate them funeral, that was facilitated by the officials our country’s constitution. ethical. It is so because force is from Anglican worship on the ground that of the S.D.A., and they allowed their That said, it is worth noting not used. In its non-violent they tended to be one-sided to downright tempers to flare within limits, out of that in essence, protests are nature, it is a powerful tool; it dishonest, and generally hypocritical. deference to the institution of the church I recall that I was once prevented from aimed at causing disruption, puts authority on the spot for it where it took place. annoyance and inconvenience; giving a eulogy to a Mr. Graham, a So what happened at Georgetown, will more than likely not know patriarch of the Lowmans-Greiggs but it is this very cacophony that Saturday 19th July, 2014, (E.G. Lynch’s how to respond without community, whose children returned from funeral service) was a scenario waiting to calls attention to troubling resorting to some draconian the Virgin Islands for the occasion, and happen. In fact, the ‘Saluche’ incident had issues in society. action that hurts the general were solely disappointed. Leopold Friday been a warning, a dress rehearsal of what In fact, many of the rights public. had been the young priest in charge, but took place at Lynch’s funeral, after an and freedoms we enjoy today And by its very nature, a had obviously followed the prohibition interval in which politics increasingly and take for granted are the peaceful but loud protest will order of Dean Ulric Smith. encroached on the sacred domain of the result of actions taken that must generate public awareness of a Then at Stubbs Anglican, took place the church, with no one daring to address the have caused major disruption to serious problem, issue that funeral of Hubert Daisley Jr., the father of issue of the rather rude, if subtle, life’s normal routine. requires an honest and fair the well-known Lennie Daisley, who was incursion. So, rather than trying to put a solution. slated to present the eulogy into which was In fact, what took place at Georgetown spin on the reasons for the So while there might be a poured much research. Dean Ulric Smith was the start of the playing out of forces people’s protests, we should variety of goals for a protest, again firmly put his foot down, and Lennie deeply rooted and long in the making. The welcome them, and see them as among a single more telling one, was forced to steal some graveside basic fact was that the Prime Minister was essential, informed political is that it will influence public opportunity in which to air his grievances unable, even with the protection of the debate and dissension. reaction and opinion; it will and publicly mention what a stalwart church, to command a hearing in the Protests play an essential role highlight an issue and share member of the educational fraternity and capital of his constituency of North Central in giving voice to people and information about a perceived the Stubbs community in general, his Windward! their issues, and holding injustice; prod public policy in a deceased father had become. There is much confusion over matters of institutions — like parliament particular direction and is an As politics progressively entered the detail, as to who ultimately is to blame for and government, even the opportunity to connect with funeral business, there was one the fracas. One thing is certain, there are judiciary — to account for their others who share the same circumstance which issued its own silent many truths competing for precedence, and warning: that of comedian Lucian Small in actions. passion about an issue. many interpretations pushed by the spin And lest we forget, the early 2007. doctors that one can dredge the real truth Any democratic society, ours With his ribald political jokes, Small had from the quagmire, especially so early after not excluded, ought to welcome overarching purpose of protests is to demand change. Nuff said. offended a politically over-sensitive U.L.P. the event. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 7. V Letters Remembering Wheel and Dr. Kenneth John

THERE is an African Proverb that says: “When an old man dies, a library burns to the come again! ground.” This could not be better demonstrated than in THERE WERE two days of Mitchell. Gonsalves will weakest since it had the passing of Dr. Kenneth John. He has left an protest in Kingstown last use every legitimate gained power in 1984. outstanding legacy and we are fortunate to have week. A protestor made mechanism of the state Even Mitchell, I am his writings remain with us. me to understand that he to remain in government certain, would admit to Much will be said about Kenneth’s scholarly and and “the hundreds” (his to which he will remind that. If it was not so, political pursuits. Much will be said about what he words) of others had come you he was duly elected, why did he rush into wrote in his weekly columns. out on the streets to barring this thing about holding talks with Whether you agreed or disagreed with Kenneth highlight that law and majority vote. Gonsalves and agreeing there was always something that evoked a spirited order and “the rule of law” Yes, you might want to hold elections before discussion. Sometimes with shock, horror and had diminished in our to say that this is a the five-year term was dismay. Never a dull moment. He put it all out country and the way things similar situation to in over? furthermore, he needs there. were going, this country 1998-2000, but it is not One thing that is some time in Parliament, Baldwin and I have been fortunate to have would become totally so… it is different. This different this time is the which can act as a known Kenneth for many years. It was a pleasure lawless if something was protest is up in arms behaviour of the police. deflection, to attend to to collaborate with him and publish his “Flambeau” not done. against a well-oiled Gonsalves thinks he is things in his party articles in three publications: “Search for Identity: When I asked what Unity Labour Party in a position of strength especially as it relates to Essays on St. Vincent & the Grenadines” edited by: was that something that (ULP) and a wily Prime which has nothing to do who is going to succeed Baldwin King, Kenneth John & Cheryl L. A. needed to be done, his Minister who has shown with the majority he has him. King (2006); “Quest for Caribbean Unity : Beyond quick response was that on numerous occasions in parliament. Rather, Come again Colonialism” edited by: Kenneth John, Baldwin we had to get rid of that he can outfox the his position of strength protestors, no amount of King & Cheryl L. A. King (2006); “Home Sweet “Gonsalves and his band New Democratic Party. comes from knowing how noise on the road is going Home : Musings on Hairoun” edited by: Kenneth of merry men”. It was The Road Block weak his opponents are. to unseat Gonsalves. John, Baldwin King & Cheryl L. A. King (2007). difficult to engage him in Revolution led by the They will never frighten Wheel and come again! We will miss the loving, caring Kenneth who on further conversation ULP was against an him into resigning before our arrival in St. Vincent would ask: “You ate any since we were speaking NDP that was at its his term is over. And Past Student, SMSS mangoes yet ? Wait...” He would go to his in the middle of the loud refrigerator and give us whatever mangoes were protest and he seemed there. And this extended to many others with anxious to get back to whatever happened to be in season. the heart of the protest. How to eat a Food He loved to share not only in these terms but What I would have also in terms of thoughts and ideas. wanted to tell him and THE UTENSILS in which our food is nickel and chromium. Increased doses of Rest in peace, dear Kenneth, and may light all the other protestors is prepared and from which it is eaten may metals such as nickel and chromium can perpetual shine upon you. that if they thought have an effect on our health. cause adverse reaction such as Our condolences to his family. Gonsalves was going to Consequently, we need to choose with dermatitis. Teflon vaporizes at high He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered. give into a bunch of care our pots, plates, bowls, cups, temperatures and inhaling these fumes Thanks, Kenneth. protestors, they had glasses, knives, forks and spoons. may lead to polymer fume fever, also better wheel and come Aluminum, copper, iron, lead, stainless known as the Teflon flu. Microplastics Cheryl Phills King & Baldwin King again. steel, Teflon, earthenware, plastics, and taken into the human body can cause Gonsalves is no glass may be used to make these inflammation, genotoxicity, oxidative implements. stress, apoptosis, necrosis, cancer, and Aluminum in the diet is associated cardiovascular diseases. Glass is largely with impaired visual motor coordination inert and does not react chemically with We will rise again and Alzheimer’s disease. Excess copper most substances. Broken glass can be a in food can be toxic. Excess iron in the physical hazard. Earthenware is WE WILL RISE again from the ashes hands to survive. diet can cause tiredness, weakness, generally safe. and the challenges that faced us as a Much appreciation must be given to weight loss, abdominal pain, high blood My choice of dish for holding my food nation. the many organizations and sugar levels, hyperpigmentation, a loss is the calabash. It is an environmentally We have been dealing and living individuals both home and abroad of sex drive, and a reduction of the size friendly dish. It is said that the taste of with Covid-19 since last year. I do who gave and continue to give of the testicles in males. Lead can harm the food is influenced by the container in believe this pandemic would be with assistance. Indeed, these kind production of blood cells and the which it is served since some substance us for some time. gestures would soften the effects of absorption of calcium needed for strong in the container itself may leak out into Already it has caused economic, the loss and help in returning life to bones and teeth, muscle movements, and it. It is cost effective and I hope to eat a social and psychological problems. The normalcy. the work of nerves and blood vessels. food from it for many years. adjustment will take some time, but it Amidst all of that Hurricane ELSA High lead levels can cause brain and is a necessary one. came and brought with it destructions kidney damage. Stainless steel contains Anthony Stewart, PhD The loss of income has been a major in some areas. Some persons have lost challenge for some. This is made all their properties and contents and the more burdensome when, as we can some have suffered loss on a lesser safely say, we have experienced and scale. continue to experience a downturn in Be that as it may, I am confident the economy. that we will rise again amidst the While we are still trying to deal challenges. with and survive the effects of Covid- Rising from the ashes, the 19, up comes Madame La Soufriere. pandemic and the disaster will require When it rains it certainly pours. resilience, a faith in God and The entire country experienced determination to make it. Yes, we may some impact of the eruption. Even be struggling and are down but we those in the safe zones had to deal will rise again, for no situation is with the ashes. Those who had to permanent. Once as a people we put leave their homes now face the reality God first and work as a united force, of having nowhere to live since they we will raise again. lost their houses and properties. The This is not a time for division, farmers had to battle and are still hatred and backbiting. Instead, we doing so with surviving amidst the must make it a time of working loss of their crops and animals. together with love and appreciation Even though many would have for each other. Yes, we have to face benefited from relief aid, including the challenges but we will rise again. foodstuff, and the income support to Long live SVG and May God bless our the farmers and persons from the Red nation. Zone by the authorities, many affected persons still have a struggle on their Kennard King 8. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Views The ULP would not be distracted from doing The right plan for Private Sector the people’s work Development Introduction THE FAILURE of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) government has prevented the THE TASK of governing a Small Island economy of St. Vincent and the including: business pre-start, start-up Developing State, with an open economy some elderly individuals and the latter, Grenadines from growing and creating and development assistance; business demands high levels of focus, innovation, addressing the transfer of land between jobs. For twenty years, they have plan development and follow-up; efficiency and overall leadership. The many family members. There are countries mismanaged the country’s economy, business incubators; legal, accounting challenges facing states like Saint Vincent where the legislature has reduced created severe hardship and poverty for and financial services; information most Vincentians. Only with a healthier and the Grenadines on a daily basis significantly its work because of the services including advice on government private sector, can we reduce the require the strength of leadership that pandemic, but in SVG, the Parliament policies; advice on the effective unemployment rate, improve living many large countries wish they possess. meets just as regularly as before the application of information, provide standards and sustainably develop our communication and business Over the last 15 months, this country has pandemic, and the cabinet continues to country. technologies to the business process; seen one example after another, of just meet with the same regularity with The ULP government appears not to offer consultancy and research services; how critical it is to elect the right people additional meetings as needs be to understand this basic fact. The evidence managerial and vocational skills to lead, especially when the going gets address the pressing and ever changing of this is seen through government’s ill- enhancement; promotion and tough. needs of a country that has been rocked advised policies. For too long our development of enterprise based It is no exaggeration to proclaim that by one disaster after another. Our businesses have been constrained by the training. The Ministry will also work in SVG is lucky to have the ULP in government understands that the political patronage of the ULP who only close collaboration with the Ministry of government, with Comrade Ralph as effective management of this country support their friends, while ordinary Foreign Affairs and our overseas Prime Minister at this time. The requires of our elected leaders, the Vincentians lose out. Further, according Missions, CARICOM and the Vincentian calmness and focus with which this ability to handle multiple tasks with a to the World Bank, it has become harder Diaspora to identify trade and export government has carried out its work, high degree of efficiency, always putting to do business in St. Vincent and the opportunities for SMEs. managing dengue, the Covid-19 the needs of the country first. By Grenadines under the ULP government. Moreover, we consider SMEs a pandemic, the explosive eruption of La contrast, the parliamentary opposition, Our ranking has fallen from 103 in 2015 critical factor in economic growth, and Soufriere and the flooding that have like a petulant child, still dissatisfied to 130 in 2020. The report reveals that we will create the conditions that will occurred since the start of the rainy with its electoral defeat in November we are one of the hardest places in the enable SMEs to play a major role in season, makes governance look easy. 2020, continues to agitate through world for businesses to find credit and entrepreneurship, innovation and job While leaders of countries in this region various methods of lies, misinformation register property. creation. In order to create the have long been warning of their and attempted disruptions of the The ULP promised to reduce that environment in which SMEs will thrive, government’s inability to pay wages and people’s business in the House of standard rate of corporate tax to at least the NDP will end the competition service debts, suggesting that it may be Assembly to thwart the will of the 27 percent; they did not keep that between government enterprises and one or the other, this country has never people as expressed in those General promise and taxes are still at 30 SMEs; adopt and pursue appropriate defaulted on a debt payment nor missed Elections. The unruly and disrespectful percent. Our external trade has fiscal and employment policies to a single payment of wages to public behaviour during the meeting of deteriorated under the ULP, meaning promote an optimal economic sector workers. Instead, the government Parliament in May, was nothing more we are importing increasingly more environment; improve the attractiveness has, along with meeting its financial than an attempt to cause chaos and goods and services than we are of entrepreneurship and remove the obligations to state sector workers, also obstruct the proceedings of the House exporting. The ULP also promised to constraints to the development and provided income support to various and the legislative agenda. The deliver an office of private sector growth of SMEs through, the categories of workers impacted by job continued appeal to their base to rise up development to help businesses. They establishment of a Development Bank, loss during the pandemic. Thousands of and fight against some imaginary ills, have failed to deliver this. The ULP’s to provide funding and financial support employees in the tourism, agriculture, conjured up in the minds of desperate complacency means Vincy businesses for SMEs. fisheries, pre-school (early childhood), party leaders seem not to be gaining have not been given enough support to The Development Bank is essential to and other sectors have received and momentum, hence disruptions to develop real opportunities for new jobs. drive growth and jobs in St. Vincent and some continue to receive regular proceedings of the House of Assembly Vincy businesses are the backbone of the Grenadines. Capitalized with funds payments from the government as have become the activity used around our nation and supporting them to from the Citizenship by Investment income support during these very which the respondents to their call must expand and employ local people is one of program and other sources of difficult times. The focus of the rally. It was no wonder, that during the the New Democratic Party’s development finance, the development government to deal with these sitting of Parliament on July 7, 2021, cornerstones of our plan for jobs and bank will be a true partner in local challenges, managing this country and Vice President of the opposition and MP growth. ventures. It will provide mentorship and dealing with the business of the people for Central Kingstown, found it fitting The New Democratic Party (NDP) technical support to help businesses has been laser-like, with regular to disrupt the proceedings because of an has recognized the importance of private succeed. This will put tens of millions of meetings of the Cabinet and the unsubstantiated claim by some sector development. Tremendous dollars into local businesses each year, Parliament to ensure that measures are individual. The idea was clearly to cause benefits can be derived from private not just a few million dollars in grants. implemented in accordance with the public fear and alarm in an effort to stir sector development. These include: We will ensure that this finance is laws of our country, and in line with up emotions among the few individuals increased national income, sustainable available at the cheapest rate, as the good-governance practices. they had managed to convince to leave employment, stable economic growth, goal of the bank will be to help to their daily routine and gather outside competitive markets, higher standard of develop our country. Seeing beyond the distractions the parliament, but even that attempt living, infrastructural development, We will also reduce costly delays at failed and the MP was left visibly consumer cost savings and wealth companies registry and High Court. creation and distribution. While the ULP administration embarrassed. Yet another failed attempt Many tasks related to setting up The NDP recognizes that improving businesses are unnecessarily complex. remains focused on doing the work it to distract the focused ULP government government policies and behaviour will Simple things such as setting up a was elected by the citizens of this from its progressive legislative agenda not only shape the investment climate company should not take weeks but that continues to deliver benefits to the country to do, the parliamentary and drive private sector development, it days. The Companies Registry (CIPO) opposition continues with the politics of people of this country. will also drive overall economic growth will be made more efficient and business distraction that has so far failed to offer and improve opportunities for everyone. Conclusion friendly. And, also help local businesses any positive results to its agenda. The We, therefore, will provide a range of to compete for government contracts clear and obvious difference can be seen incentives and support to encourage and tenders, local businesses should in the approach as the government is This country continues to deal private sector development, and above have the best chance to put together a focused on addressing the issues effectively with the impacts of a number all, create the stable and predictable bid or submit a tender for work. That is affecting SVG, while the opposition is of challenges that have affected us over macro-economic and social environment why we will break up contracts where desperate to gain power at all cost. The the last 15 months, primarily because that will encourage investment. feasible so that Vincentians businesses legislative agenda of the government at the ULP government that was re-elected In our manifesto for the 2020 general can have the chance to compete for the the Sittings of the House of July 5, 2021 for a fifth consecutive 5-year term, has elections, we outlined an impressive work. and 7, 2021 included the reading of very made governance look easy. In the face programme for private sector The NDP will welcome Vincentians important bills that touch at the heart of political side-shows including development. The following is part of investors who are based overseas to of poverty reduction and the attempts at public disruptions by a our plan for private sector development. create opportunities for locals. As a improvement of the lives of Vincentians. desperate opposition, the government “In order to foster private sector small nation, our people are our most On the Order Paper of that meeting remains focused on doing the business development, the NDP seeks to focus on important asset. Our diaspora were among other things two Bills, one of the people. This ULP government will creating an attractive investment communities are an important source of dealing with amendments to the Zero continue to provide income support to climate. Therefore, the NDP will investment, who are committed to our Hunger Trust Fund Act and the other affected workers including farmers and establish a Ministry of the Private future and creating opportunities for dealing with amendments to the Stamp fisher folk, address the macro-economic Sector to facilitate the development and locals. We need to welcome Vincentian Duty Act. These two very important issues, address regional and expansion of private industry in businessmen and women to St. Vincent pieces of legislation touch the lives of international issues through its general. and the Grenadines when they attempt ordinary poor and working-class progressive foreign policy and maintain The role of the Ministry of the to invest in our country, and not treat families, with the former providing a transparent legislative agenda. The Private Sector will identify and seek to them as second to foreign investors. At meals and much needed support to ULP like the prophet Nehemiah will develop or expand a range of direct and this time, when St. Vincent and the hundreds of students in primary schools remain on course and not be distracted indirect support services for Small and Grenadines is falling apart, the NDP is across the country as well as support for by the anti-progressive forces. Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs), the viable alternative.” THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 9. V Views Pressure is a Privilege Socialist Cuba faces its gravest threat THE CUBAN REVOLUTION faces its gravest Cuban (First published in the July 15, 2016 threat since Fidel Castro and his band of Foreign Minister issue of THE VINCENTIAN newspaper.) revolutionaries came to power in 1959. Bruno Rodriguez The difficulties facing our revolutionary told the United “PRESSURE IS OFTEN VIEWED as a neighbour is compounded by the fact that Nations General negative force in our lives. the charismatic and legendary Fidel is Assembly that the Blockage was a Understandably so. Undue pressure can dead. The steady hand of Raul, who retired ‘massive, flagrant and unacceptable be an enormous cause of stress and last year, is no more. The socialist violation of the human rights of the challenged to “perform” - to deliver an experiment in Cuba is now led by Cuban People. turmoil. But each challenge that comes expected outcome. along also presents important questions President Miguel Diaz-Chanel, who was He likened the embargo to ‘an Based on the foregoing, it is no born after the revolution’s triumph. economic war of extraterritorial scope that test our character, our approach to wonder that Venus Williams would The most dangerous time for a that cost the country US$9.1 billion in leadership, and our approach to life.” have used the content of Billy Jean’s revolutionary process is during a time of 2020. Like the virus, the blockade Douglas R. Conant - New York Times book and her life experiences to propel transition and change. The Castro asphyxiates and kills; it must stop.’ The bestselling author and keynote speaker her in her efforts to return to generation is gone. The turn of the pandemic exacerbated the economic with over 40 years of leadership competitive tennis at the highest level. younger cadres has arrived. Will they be crisis. experience at world-class global Venus and her sister, Serena, able to guide the revolutionary ship of The criminal policy of economic companies. He is the former CEO and commenced playing tennis at a state to a time when better strangulation is intended to weaken the President of Campbell Soup Company. international conditions permit it to resolve of the Cuban people. The relatively early age. She is a former grow, develop and make even more terrorist oppression is designed to make Many lawn tennis fans were elated world number one player who, despite to discover that this year’s Wimbledon transformative strikes? We are about to them end their support for a leadership her setbacks, remains in the top ten see. that has always looked out for them, Finals for the Women’s Singles female players. She has won 22 Grand The demonstrations across Cuba may and other less fortunate people in the Championship may have seen a Slam titles. Venus is considered the have shocked many observers. The world. rematch between the Williams sisters, twelfth on the all-time list having won protestors, mainly young people, vented The American government is not Venus and Serena. Both sisters had 7 Grand Slam singles titles. She has their anger and demanded relief if not interested in freedom and democracy. made it through to the finals in the also partnered with her younger sister, change. The COVID-19 pandemic Biden’s primary goal is to make the 2009 women’s tennis championships. Serena, to win 13 women’s doubles. compounded these difficulties. As the world safe for the exploitation of But this was not to be in 2016. The 36- The additional 2 Grand Slam victories president of the socialist republic said, resources by a wealthy and powerful year-old Venus was knocked out at the have been in the mixed doubles many persons who joined the elite at the expense of the broad semi-finals stage by the 28-year-old category. demonstrations were revolutionaries, majority. He does not care if the Angelique Kerber. In the end, Venus frustrated with the grinding economic majority of Cubans live or die. Venus Williams has secured four challenges the country faces. The rhetoric of American leaders commented that the better player won. Olympic gold medals. She won the Like they did 30 years ago, when the should fool no one. Over the last 70 She was graceful in her defeat. singles at the Sydney Olympics in 2000 Soviet Union collapsed, the right- years, the American and British However, Venus’ younger sister, and three doubles at the Sydney, winged forces in the US government governments planned, financed and Serena, dismantled Kerber’s attacks Beijing, and London Olympics in 2000, and around the world are in a executed the overthrow of popular and when the two met in the finals. Serena 2008, and 2012 respectively. Venus celebratory mood. They sense another democratically elected governments now etches her place in the annals of and Serena have won more gold medals opportunity to deal a mortal blow at the worldwide. Guyana and Iran in 1953, lawn tennis history for having won her at the Olympics than any other tennis Cuban revolution. In 1991, the George Guatemala in 1954, Indonesia and 22nd Singles Grand Slam. player. Bush administration set up a transition Dominican Republic in 1965, Chile in The title for this week’s article was Venus, at the peak of her tennis team licking their chops, anticipating a 1973, Financed the murder and taken from one of Venus’ earlier career, was diagnosed with Sjögren’s triumphant counter-revolutionary destabilisation of Manley’s Jamaica television interviews. On that return to Havana. It did not happen 1972 to 1980, Maurice Bishop’s Grenada syndrome in 2011. This placed her then, and the world peoples, who have 1979 to 1983, Sandanistas in Nicaragua occasion, she was referring to the book under tremendous pressure. She had benefitted so much from Cuba’s between 1980 to 1990, the legal coup de by the same title that was authored by to make some serious lifestyle changes. internationalist solidarity, generosity, tat against Lula Da Silva and Dilma in the famous tennis star, Billy Jean She adopted a vegan diet (abstaining assistance and sacrifice, must not allow Brazil, Kirchner in Argentina, Hamas in King. from the use of animal products) and Mr Imperialism and his allies to Palestine, the failed coup against Billy Jean knew what it was like to reduced her intake of calories and succeed. President Chavez in 2002, Honduras in play and win under intense pressure. sugars. Caricom countries, the democratic 2009 and the continued destabilisation She had won a total of 39 Grand Slam Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic and progressive leaders in Latin of Venezuela. (Majors) titles. The Grand Slam autoimmune inflammatory disease. It America, the African Union, China and Revolutionary Cuba is the most consists of the Australian Open which attacks the body’s white blood cells and other people of goodwill in Asia must generous nation on planet earth. Its is played in January, the French Open destroys its moisture-producing glands come to Cuba’s assistance now more accomplishment in sports, medicine and than ever before. education are beyond question. In which occurs in May and June, such as those that produce saliva and President Joe Biden lamented the responses to tragedy and disaster, Wimbledon in June and July, and the tears. In addition to creating irritation tragic grip of the pandemic and the Cuban leaders have ensured that the US Open which attracts the world’s and discomfort resulting from having a decades of economic suffering to which less fortunate are accorded assistance, best tennis players in August and dry mouth and dry eyes, it can cause the Cuban people have been subjected. benefit and solace. They offer not September. Her 39 Majors titles chronic pain, intense fatigue, and Biden called on the Cuban leaders to because they have in abundance but included 12 singles, 16 women’s weakening of the cognitive capabilities. hear their people and serve their needs. because they are truly their brothers’ doubles, and 11 mixed doubles titles. Having to cope with such a debilitating How nauseating can a leader keepers. Sports Illustrated named her disease magnifies her efforts at a become? How immoral and unethical? It is a tribute to the revolutionary sportsman of the year in 1972. She comeback at the highest levels of world Biden is a career politician who spent foresight and determination of the shared that title with John Wooden tennis. Her strong will power and his entire career planning and plotting Cuban leaders that the country is now a that year. Three years later, in 1975, determination to succeed inspire many the defeat of the Cuban Revolution. medical power capable of exporting Time Magazine listed her as Person of Biden does not have the dignity or thousands of doctors to lend assistance to press on when life seems to have principle to remove the harsh, around the globe. It stands proud and the Year. The Sunday Times created obstacles to success. The oppressive and suffocating policies of tall as a capable bio-medical leader with subsequently presented her with the “darkness” of her disease has Donald Trump and replace them with a the approval of two vaccines to combat Sportswoman of the Year Lifetime magnified the “light” of her more civilised policy that he helped to the coronavirus. Achievement Award. With all of these determination and character. Her life initiate under the leadership of Barack Cuba’s difficulties and problems must accomplishments, it is therefore not reflects the truth that pressure can be Obama. How then could he speak of be understood in the context of the surprising that she was inducted into deemed a privilege. caring for the people of Cuba? The plain pressures and deprivation it has had to the International Tennis Hall of Fame We can learn some most valuable truth is that Biden and all previous endure. Any superficial appreciation in 1987. lessons from Venus’ life. We need to presidents before him hate the Cuban may lead some to cheer on the In her book, Billy Jean reminds have a strong determination and revolutionaries because they broke the imperialist as they press for change in readers that each of us has to deal with engage in a most disciplined approach back of foreign, primarily American the Cuban system of government. Any various types and intensities of to life’s challenges if we seek to excel. domination in Cuba and set the country such reversal will return Cuba to the on a progressive path to development. neo-colonial vassal state. pressure on a daily basis. Sometimes Victory is not for the faint hearted. No one interested in freedom and we can become so preoccupied with the Victory will often require that we go The American government, since the development, independence and devastating consequences of pressure beyond what we think possible to 1960s, imposed an illegal embargo sovereignty would willingly join a call that we neglect to appreciate the good achieve the impossible. And when against Cuba. This blockage makes it for such a backward step. The urgent that is often wrapped up in its life’s challenges emerge and the all but impossible for the Cuban call now must be for renewed solidarity packages. She notes that pressure, in setbacks appear to slow us in our government to trade and buy products, with revolutionary Cuba. The primary whichever forms it appears, is a tracks, we may be required to make including food and medicine, to satisfy difficulties faced by the country are privilege because it means that there is detours, to accept some serious changes the Cuban people’s needs. caused by external pressure and something expected of you. It forces us in our life and lifestyles - but it is often On June 23, 2021, the vast majority sabotage emanating from the USA. to “rise to the occasion”. It demands not beyond us to re-emerge as winners. of the world’s nations (184 to 2), called Cuba must be allowed to work through that we meet the challenges whether Life’ pressures can reveal the winner on the American government to end its and settle its internal problems. No those pressures emerge from clients, unilateral and illegal blockade against foreign intervention must be tolerated. within and, in so doing, be considered a Cuba. In clear violation of international The demand to end the Blockage must suppliers, employees, employers, great privilege. law, the Biden administration voted be intensified. Cuba’s sovereignty and family, spouse, friends, children, against the resolution. This has been independence must be respected. neighbours, teachers, coaches, mentors, Send comments, criticisms & the reactionary pattern, i.e. to vote or from anyone else. Regardless of the suggestions to against the wishes of the world peoples Send comments, criticisms & source of the pressure, we are [email protected] for the last two decades. suggestions to [email protected] 10. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Views Teacher cries, “Help! Help!

a university education. Our children can’t read!” The quality of lifestyle we want for our children in SVG will depend on the quality of education they get. There In a letter in THE VINCENTIAN newspaper create a world-class education system percentage of millionaire households can be no doubt that under the ULP of 9th July 2021, a patriotic SVG teacher for our children, and provide free as a share of a country’s total regime our country is in shambles, highlighted serious concerns about the education for all from preschool to our households at 15.5%; Singapore is thus it is not surprising a teacher education system in our country. It is own university. The ULP regime has ranked as the most attractive country points out the alarming fact that many very disturbing and alarming to hear that failed to do so and the fallout from this for foreign investors in the Asia-Pacific school children just cannot read! so many of our children have been failed we see all around us. Many of our region and attracts 52% of foreign According to The Leader of SVG by the ULP regime’s so called ‘education children cannot read, many do not investment in its region; Singapore Green Party, Warrant Officer Ivan revolution’. finish school and get decent topped the charts for highest GDP per Bertie O’Neal BSc (Hons), MSc, MBA, The teacher says, ‘I wish to bring qualifications, and many end up in capita in 2010 at close to EC$152,636 the ULP regime is hopeless at national attention and outcry to the prison. and is expected to continue to be the governing SVG and could never give serious plight of illiteracy in our We have had a generation of failure global leader until 2050; Singapore has our children the world-class education schools. During this week of National in education provision by the ULP a GDP of EC$810 billion; Singapore system they deserve and need. Diagnostic Reading Assessment, it has regime and that has led to more young has a very low unemployment rate of The teacher is right: ‘How could we become glaringly clear that students people going to jail, high 1.9%; more than 70% of Singapore think that this is acceptable?’ are struggling to read, and in many unemployment and a high level of resident non-students aged 25-34 have cases just cannot read.’ crime. This is a truly sad situation and will As the teacher indicated, illiteracy seriously affect the life opportunities of is killing our nation and it consigns Where lies the the children who have been failed. illiterate people to a lifetime of People who cannot read, or can barely poverty. Widespread illiteracy has read, are less likely to pass exams and been created by ULP regime’s failure so, less likely to get a university and poor governance. police force? education and a highly-paid job. The ULP regime’s poor quality When the ULP regime came to education system has moved SVG from power there was a focus on prison - paradise to slum, whereas Singapore’s AMIDST what has often say to myself, “I stealing several guns and and not enough focus on education. high-quality education system has become a politically hope everything is a quantity of We saw the Belle Isle prison being moved Singapore from slum to a World charged atmosphere, alright.” Then ammunition. At the most built. There is too much focus on Bank success story. many Vincentians are automatically revert to recent public protests for locking up our people, rather than Using education as the foundation calling for justice for Mr. my old role as a City justice in Kingstown, educating them. of the SVG economy and following Cornelius John. The Manager and begin to some public members Since its inception, SVG Green Singapore’s example is the best way issue, in my opinion, is wonder, what kind of call accused the Police of Party has said that SVG needs to forward. Singapore has the highest the Commissioner of was that? Was it the physically assaulting Police, yes the other Mr. Police or the ambulance? them. Why? How did we John, and the Police Was there another get to this point? Department. killing? I hope the Police Every year, we seem Often we get didn’t shoot someone? to add more Police distracted by the big And, after all, this is Officers to the budget, shiny object or the one no longer unthinkable in but if you ask most that seems to be the SVG. The aggressive people if they feel safe in juiciest. In this case, it is behaviour of the Police their neighborhood or a painful reality for Mr. these days does not leave homes, the answer is yes. John. And the opposition much doubt that this is The crime always seems party appears to be possible. to be happening jumping on this to carry A review of a few somewhere else, and them to who knows incidents over the last most people will advise, where. year will show a severe “As long as you stay A deeper look at this void in the leadership of away from here or there, case and how the Police the Police Force: the you’ll be ok.” So why, if handled the issue would increased number of our population is not quickly reveal that the unsolved crimes; the growing exponentially, problem lies squarely increased reports of do we need to continue to with our Police Force … police abuse by people grow our Police Force? an institution that seems taken into custody; the I feel we need a not to have any slow response to Mr. complete overhaul of the independence. Now, this John’s shooting incident, police department from is not as surprising as it and the Force’s silence the top down. is disappointing; for all on the video circulating my life, the history of on social media of an Horatio policing shows that a officer discharging his Police Force is an weapon during extension of the the arrest of establishment. I live in someone in the hope that one day we Layou. will see a professional (Throughout my Police Force headed by a professional Commissioner worthy of career, I have the title; a leader that never known a would be strong enough police service to exercise his/her revolver to be a independent judgment. I crowd control want a Commissioner of tool.) Police who will do what’s Before that, a right and just, not what former police the political leaders want officer was them to do. charged with Today, when I sit at breaking into the home and hear the police station in sounds of a police siren I Georgetown and THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 11. V News Venezuela marks 210th Independence anniversary Venezuela to St. Vincent fact that on 5th July, independence and, we uncompromising and the Grenadines held 1811, Venezuela became will never lose that defendant of the an activity to the first nation to gain independence again… ” independence and the commemorate the 210th independence from In his feature address sovereignty of the Anniversary of Venezuela’s Spain, after the Battle of which centred around, Bolivarian Republic of Independence, Friday 9th Carabobo led by ‘Independence is not the Venezuela as we are July, at the Embassy in Venezuelan General end; it is the beginning’, Cuba, Nicaragua, Ratho Mill. Simon Bolivar. Prime Minister of St. Bolivia, and for every Mr. Francisco Perez Head of the This resulted in the Vincent and the country in our Americas Santana, Head of the Venezuelan Diplomatic signing of the Act of the Grenadines — Dr. Ralph and elsewhere.” Venezuelan Diplomatic Mission, Mr. Francisco Declaration of Gonsalves congratulated He explained his Mission to SVG, reinforced his country’s Perez Santana, in his Independence of Venezuela on reaching singling out Venezuela, preparedness to never opening remarks Venezuela which the milestone. Cuba, Nicaragua and lose its independence. registered his country’s liberated Venezuelans to In declaring that the Bolivia, saying that in condemnation of the establish principles of government of St. recent years the four assassination of Haiti’s equality, abolish Vincent and the countries have been photographer and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, graphic designer under Prime Minister SVG, President, Jovenel Moïse, censorship and create Grenadines is unyielding subjected to immense calling that country’s freedom of expression, in its defense of the challenges to their the theme, ‘Caribbean, reiterated his Independence and government’s history, “one of the Perez Santana said. independence and sovereignty and Emancipation’. (See unyielding defense of transcendental and He then acknowledged sovereignty of the independence, and their Venezuela’s important reference the 210th anniversary Bolivarian Republic of right to pursue their own accompanying article.) independence and their points for the revolution with the affirmation Venezuela. Prime path. La Gracia Dancers sovereignty. that existed in our that, “Today, thanks to a Minister Gonsalves said: Also making brief and saxophonist Oswald Americas.” people that woke up, “It is well established remarks was Mr. Williams provided entertainment following by GLORIAH He went on to take thanks to an armed force by now that the Renwick Rose, President those present down his that woke up and here government of St. of the Vincentian-Cuban which Dr. Gonsalves laid a wreath in honour of THE EMBASSY of country’s path of freedom we are: united people Vincent and the Friendship Association. Liberator Simon Bolivar. Bolivarian Republic of from Spain. His and armed force. We Grenadines, which I have The activity featured a discourse unveiled the have recovered national the honour to lead, is an display of work by 12. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V People Nadia Huggins Photography featured people’s way of expressing themselves, creating a livelihood and being the controllers of their future.” Young boys playing football on the beach This work fell intimately from the ‘Black and Blue’ series. into what was being celebrated: the connection between a history and the present. The other series ‘Black and Blue’ also featured a beach scene. “As islands we have a very close relationship with the ocean. These particular images documents young boys playing football on the beach.” The images, all shot out of focus, represented a familiar activity shown in a different and unfamiliar perspective that focuses on the essence of the human body, and the way Nadia Huggins – of expressing itself in a space photographer, graphic like that. designer with an unusual “The people are quite sense of connection to ambiguous, they could be people, places and issues. anyone being seen in that sort of environment…, but then connections with herself and again how different the body things she grew up with, and by GLORIAH… language is now compared to with other people. our past, of enslaved people “I’m trying to find ways to THE ACTIVITY TO for example,” the artist represent that in a universal COMMEMORATE THE 210th explained. way, connecting with people Anniversary of Venezuela’s on a global scale,” she said. Independence, held at the Who is Nadia Huggins She claimed an emotional Venezuelan Embassy at Ratho connection to, “The piece with Mill on 5th July, was a fitting Nadia is a self-taught the man’s hand and his shorts occasion to display the work of photographer whose parents with the sea in the Vincentian - Trinidadian Nadia fostered her creativity. She background.. .” Huggins – a photographer and calls herself “a human being Believing that her eye was graphic designer. who wants to see other human trained to perceive the world As part of the beings and represent them in a particular way; persons, commemorative activity, her with dignity and integrity in a issues and themes attract her. work was featured in an way that is formal and exhibition themed, ‘Caribbean, imaginative; that really makes Therefore, although very Independence and them feel a sense of belonging abstract, she saw the person Emancipation’, in keeping to the Caribbean.” in the image as referenced as with the aim to showcase the She recalled at seven years “a force, determined, identity of the Caribbean old painting her first confident, and able to express The ‘Force of the Fist’ to which the artist has an ‘emotional that through their own body people through their struggles connection’. landscape at the Venezuelan and expressions. Embassy. She had now come language.” It paid tribute “to the Afro- full circle with the exhibition. Nadia’s photography has stages of her career, were much focuses on identity and been exhibited in group shows descendant peoples who have displayed. belonging and a sense of place, Conscious of the dynamic participated in the struggles of nature of life, Nadia believes in Canada, the USA, Trinidad Nadia told THE but it’s also about the land and Tobago, Barbados, independence.” VINCENTIAN that they were and the sea and human that her photography has Exhibited work changed where, driven by the Ethiopia, Guadeloupe, France together, a response to the relationships with those and the Dominican Republic. Two series of images, both environment. “My work very spaces, and how they inform Caribbean aesthetic, she seeks shot in St. Lucia in the early us.” The series ‘Pulling the Net’ imaged a group of people at the sea shore working as a Seemingly team to pull in the fishing walking away net/seine. Within that space, from a an image of an old rum factory moment of and a pipeline showed discord, also connection to the fishers. from ‘Black “It’s sort of eerie in the and Blue’. sense where we think of our past in the Caribbean and what sugar and rum really represented to us,” Nadia expressed, continuing, “but having a people who are now free to express themselves in this environment, with that juxtaposition of the factory and the boat, showing the From the series ‘Pulling the Net’ – a representation of working together for the benefit of many. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 13. V Soufrière Relocation process has begun

A NUMBER OF PEOPLE from La Soufrière’s volcanic ash caused building in Sandy the north eastern and north Bay to collapse. western areas of mainland St. Vincent who were team that included the collaboration is expected to severely affected by the Chief Surveyor and the see the construction of eruption of the La Soufriere Chief Physical Planner. some twenty seven or so Volcano, will be relocated. “And we have seen houses homes on the The assurance was some preliminary western part of the island, given by Prime Minister indication as to what this on lands that have already Dr. Ralph Gonsalves while will look like, certainly the been demarcated. speaking on NBN Radio on Sandy Bay side …. The “We have ordered Wednesday morning. technical work is significant amount of As a matter of fact, Dr. continuing and I am materials and this is only a Gonsalves indicated that putting pressure on the first batch,” said Dr. the process has already committee and Donette Gonsalves. started to relocate people Hull (Chief Physical The Prime Minsiter is in some communities and Planner) to get for us at hopeful that persons who that a Committee has least in phases the might have housing needs already been established to demarcations, because she will ease their expectations advise and manage that is required under the Town for support until the process. and Country Planning Act government can reasonably sort out persons whose The Prime Minister said to prepare in these houses needs to be rebuilt, that Deputy Prime circumstances a national plan …. But specifically esp3cially in the north Minister Montgomery now to do a regional and a western and north eastern Daniel had gone out with local plan for what the law sides of the island. call specially vulnerable “It’s a big exercise, it’s Muddy water laden with areas.” going to cost a lot of money debris came rushing The Prime Minister also but you notice we are doing through Sandy Bay as referenced a partnership the work in a very careful recent as last weekend between government a and scientific manner,” Dr. (July 10, 11). NGO out of Trinidad. The Gonsalves posited. Soufrière monitoring team gets new leader 14th July, after conducting ‘Monitoring La Soufrière on Campus in Trinidad. yeoman service installing, Monday, 12th July, the new As per her immediate tasks, repairing and drawing date team leader gave information which she will conduct from from the monitoring system on her specialty and the scope the Belmont Observatory, she set up to keep daily watch on of her work. will ensure the date collecting, the eruptions of the La She is a volcanologist and monitoring system there is up Soufrière, which began on has been attached to the SRC- and running; co-ordinate the April 9 and ceased on April UWI since 2002. Her specialty ongoing monitoring in the 22, 2021. is Sulphur Chemistry. She field; conduct some campaign- Replacing Mr. Lynch as has studied the chemistry of style GPS exercises; assist Lead Scientist of The UWI the gas and water of the hot with Sulphur Dioxide Seismic Research Centre springs associated with monitoring, and finish up Lloyd Lynch devoted much Dr. Eurocilla Joseph is the (SRC-UWI) La time to ensuring that first female to head the SRC- volcanoes in the Eastern anything left over from the Soufrière Monitoring team is Caribbean. She also assists current/previous team. monitoring sites were up and UWI in country La Dr. Eurocilla Joseph who is running. Soufrière Monitoring Team. with the monitoring at the While on radio on Monday, the current Director of the Montserrat Volcano Dr. Joseph responded to SRC-UWI headquartered in Observatory when needed. questions related to, but not volcano for monitoring by GLORIAH… Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Prior to arriving here, she confined to: the likelihood of purposes. Joseph arrived in SVG on managed and co-ordinated the fresh magmatic input; seismic Dr. Joseph will be replaced INSTRUMENTATION Monday 5th June and her as Head of the monitoring ENGINEER Lloyd Lynch left activities of the monitoring activity levels; the incidence of tenure will last for one month team in SVG, from her base at team by Professor Richard the shores of St. Vincent and in the first instance. lahars; venting at the volcano; The UWI. St. Augustus Robertson, when her tenure the Grenadines on Wednesday, Speaking on NBC Radio’s access to the summit of the finished on July 30. 14. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Civic Community Lions distribute $1M in volcano relief

TO DATE, the Lions Club to evacuees, the decision What began as the and once qualified, they Kingstown-SVG and the was taken by the Lions distribution of vouchers would have the items Lions Club St. Vincent - Clubs to direct their from CK Greaves dropped off at their South, along with the Leo effort and resources at Supermarket morphed respective locations. Club of St. Vincent, have assisting those evacuees into a full delivery service According to Lion together distributed over who were accommodated that was admittedly, Sabita Jacobs, EC$1 million worth of in private homes. challenging, according to Distribution Coordinator, items to over 3,227 “NEMO (the National Bacchus. the registered persons persons displaced by the Emergency Management And the challenge was were organized into four eruption of the La Soufriere Organization) was intensified when it was zones. volcano. already overwhelmed realized that there All this work, Bacchus However, according to with the 89 shelters that were persons affected conceded, would not have Lion Junior Bacchus, Co- were already established by other factors other been possible without the ordinator of the joint and we knew that it was than just the volcano — assistance of other Lion Junior Bacchus, relief effort, there is still difficult for NEMO to persons were battling the groups, organizations, Coordinator of the joint about another $1 million take care of those persons effects associated with businesses and worth of goods yet to be in shelters and those in the COVID-19 pandemic individuals. Lion Clubs’ relief effort, distributed. private homes,” Bacchus and dengue. He thanked the gave an overview of According to Bacchus, told members of the press “So we knew that we government for seeing it that effort. since April 9, 2021 when in a briefing on July 5. were going to be fit to extend duty free Lion Sabita Jacobs - Maureen Graham, PMJF, the first eruption Once the focus was bombarded with concessions on relief Distribution occurred the members of agreed, the need for a thousands of requests for items and, in this vein, who was instrumental in Coordinator, directed securing a grant of both Clubs have been storage facility was goods,” Bacchus said. highlighted the role and the distribution of the organizing and US$10,000 from Lions identified. In this regard, This challenge led to assistance of the staff at relief aid to persons in distributing much needed the old Bottlers (Ju-C) the introduction of a International. the Port Authority and four zones. items to evacuees. Building, Kingstown was system where persons Customs. The first phase of the In time, as more made available and this would not come to the Thanks was also joint Lions Clubs’ Relief organizations and resulted in more effective warehouse (Bottlers), but heaped on Rainforest Bacchus was also in Effort will effectively individuals joined in organization and instead would be Seafoods who facilitated a praise of the assistance close at the end of July. providing relief supplies distribution. encouraged to register 40ft and a 20ft container received from the A new phase — and Beacon Brooklyn-based SVG Restoration and recovery Insurances/NP for Relief USA, Inc. - is expected to begin in providing a 40ft container Special mention was September, Lion Bacchus filled with items. reserved for immediate disclosed. (DD) Support was received past District Governor, from other Lions Clubs in the Caribbean, USA and Canada, Vincentian communities across the USA and Canada, and Catholic Medical Mission Board, USA. Sentry Insurance, Coreas Hazells Inc., Court’s SVG Ltd., FLOW and the Eastern Caribbean Group of Companies (ECGC) were among local companies that contributed to the Lions’ effort. The World Pediatric Lion Junior Bacchus was ably assisted by Cornelia Moses, President of Lions Club South - Project also provided (left) support. St. Vincent and Rhandez Browne, President of Lions Club Kingstown – St. Vincent. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 15. V News PM JohnsonÊs holiday Police uncover attracts attention arms/ammo A RELEASE from the BRITISH Prime Minister Boris Minister. Royal SVG Police Force Johnson told reporters in Britain He allowed the Mustique started that police that he did not see the conclusion Company to use his own villa operations here, on July of a report launched into a holiday to compensate for the Prime 5 and 6, uncovered two he took from December 26, 2019 to Minister’s holiday. (2) firearms and a January 5, 2020, but that there was The vacationers bought quantity of “no case to answer.” their flights, and accepted the ammunition. The issue surrounds a ten-day holiday accommodation as a The release said vacation spent in Mustique, part gift. further that the of the Grenadines island chain of Johnson’s overseas holiday discovery came as a St. Vincent and the Grenadines. came under scrutiny by the result of an ongoing The findings are that Johnson Parliamentary Commissioner homicide investigation, and his partner Carrie Symonds of Standards Kathryn Stone. when a party Rapid occupied the villa Oceanus, owned This is an Independent Response Unit (RRU) by an American couple Craig and Officer in the House of personnel conducted a Sarah Richardson. Commons overseeing the code search in Glen on July Sarah confirmed that they had of conduct and rules for 5 and recovered one (1) rented the villa. Oceanus is a six Members of Parliament. Glock 27 pistol, one (1) room Moorish styled villa She contended that Johnson Glock 23 pistol, five (5) designed and built by Swedish broke the rules not having UK Prime Minister Boris magazines and seventy- architect Arne Hasselqvst in the “fulfilled conscientiously” the Johnson’s Mustique Island The Glock pistols and 1970s. It was upgraded in 2016. requirements to register Holiday Inquiry says he couldn’t three (73) rounds of .40 some of the Controversy swirled following donations. say how it was funded. (Photo ammunition. ammunition that police Johnson’s declaration that the Mustique has emerged as a source: newsbinding.com) A further search was uncovered in Glen. £15,000.00 accommodation was a unique community, dubbed as a conducted on benefit in kind from Tory donor stomping ground for the rich and friendliness of the staff and sense 06.07.2021 which the David Ross. famous. Celebrities of every ilk of wellbeing this holiday island police said, resulted in the uncovering of one (1) Ross’ villa was not available at frequent the haven. gives them as they return every magazine containing fourteen (14) rounds of .40 the time and according to him, he A promotion of the destinations year; not to mention that ammunition. had not paid “any monies” for the highlights that “visitors are Mustique ‘prides itself on the Investigations into the discovery are continuing. trip but “facilitated” charmed by the island life, the privacy’ of its clients. (Sources: Glen has been the scene of at least two recent accommodation for the Prime unequivocal hospitality and British Media) homicides here. 16. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 17. V Donations Former PC donates to RSVGPF THE ROYAL ST. VINCENT sanitizers, first-aid kits waned. He said that it is important role in his and the Grenadines Police and an assortment of Mr. Thomas’ hope that development. Force (RSVGPF) continues personal items to items donated would He noted that the to benefit from the Commissioner of Police help to keep members of donation was timely and benevolence of Mr. Colin John. the RSVGPF safe while assured that the items Vincentians at home and Thomas was a on the frontline of would be used to the abroad. member of the RSVGPF combating the benefit of Police Officers. On Thursday July 7, from 1988 to 1990 and coronavirus. (Source: RSVGPFF) 2021, at Police was attached to Commissioner of Headquarters, administration. Police, Mr. Colin John Kingstown, retired According Mr. expressed his SOP (Retired) Ellsworth Superintendent of Police, Hackshaw, Mr. Thomas appreciation on behalf of Hackshaw (centre) Ellsworth Hackshaw, on was a very reliable the RSVGPF and said hands over donation to the behalf of former officer during his short that he was pleased that COP Colin John (right) Police Constable (PC) stint in the organization. Mr. Thomas was giving in the company of DCP #536 Hayden Thomas, And even after his back to the organization Frankie Joseph. (Photo handed over a quantity departure, his interest in which played an Source: RSVGPF) of face masks, hand the RSVGPF never

Residents of South Rivers receiving food supplies. Park Hill Evangelical Church brings relief FOLLOWING the April 9th volcanic eruptions, several individuals from Park Hill who reside overseas reached out to the leaders of the church, to find out ways in which they could help the community. As this was developing, the Evangelical Church of the West Indies (ECWI) churches in Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada and St. Lucia shipped supplies to the local body, for the affected local churches in the respective communities. The Park Hill Evangelical Church (PHEC) meanwhile entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO), allowing for the Church, already an Emergency Shelter, to be designated a Relief Distribution Centre for the community of Park Hill. During May and June, the church conducted several relief distributions. Over 2,270 food packages and cleaning supplies were handed over to 1000 households in Park Hill and surrounding communities. This was made possible through donations from individuals and churches from the North American diaspora and from individuals and churches from the Caribbean. The church has also received relief supplies twice from the Tzu Chi Foundation of Taiwan. In May, the Foundation sent 5 pallets of food supplies and cleaning products which were distributed to 250 households in Park Hill. The Foundation followed this up on June 25 with a 20-foot container of relief supplies valued at EC$81,600.00. These supplies were distributed to 800 families in Park Hill, South Rivers, Mt. Grenan, Belle Vue, Colonarie, Byrea and Gorse. 18. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN V Advice Tricked by my boyfriend

Dear George,

MY BOYFRIEND and I have been dating for two months. I had him show me his What was done to you was cruel health record and evidence declaring and underserving. That said, it will him HIV/AIDS free. After seeing his not change your story should you take paperwork, I jumped right into having your revenge as per the plan you have unprotected sex. I just found out that concocted. the paper work he presented to me was What you should do as a matter of faked. urgency is to get tested for HIV. I intend to pretend to him I do not Whatever the result, I suggest you know about this and give him the last speak with a counselor, at the AIDS meal of his sad life. I will cook a Secretariat. special meal for him on his birthday I understand your hurt, you feeling coming up in July. He must pay for betrayed and probably scared. It is for his wickedness and learn not to mess all of those reasons why you need to with innocent women. speak with a counselor. I wish you Hurt and revengeful the best going forward. George Dear Hurt and revengeful, My brother is not listening

Dear George, complained to me that here, had cheated on him his girlfriend who is not 13 times in the 91/2 MY BROTHER Vincentian but living months they have been together. I told him it seems his Man up! Ask her! girlfriend has a problem keeping her legs closed, and he should move on. Dear George, But he insists he is deeply in love with her I DID NOT finish high school but I have a little and knows she loves “hustle” that pays the bills. I know in time the him, otherwise she business will get bigger and things would be would not admit that she better for me. was cheating. There is this girl that always buys from me. My brother clearly My friends tell me she likes me but I have my needs to have his head doubts. She works in a bank; girls like her don’t examined. He clearly is date people like me. not listening to me. On one occasion she asked when about my birthday. Another time she gave me her number Brotherly concern and said I should call her when I got new stuff to sell. Dear Brotherly concern, Another time she even went further and asked if I had children and whether or not I was Let’s hope your involved with anyone. When I asked her why she brother reads this. wanted to know, she just brushed it off. The best you can do is Do you think I should come right out and ask to advise your brother her if she likes me? Suppose she is just being and hope that he would nice? act on that advice. These kind of bourgeois women just want a Unfortunately, he does man like me for one thing and I am not in that. not seem to be so This one is real ticklish. inclined. He needs to accept Stoneman that repeatedly doing the same act that brings Dear Stoneman, hurt to your partner and the relationship is not an It is very possible that someone from one class attestation of love. He could have genuine interest in an individual of would be a lot happier if another class. This female could be interested in he leaves her to sort you for more than what you are thinking. herself out while he Rather than making assumptions, follow your continues his search for mind… have a head to head conversation with her someone who and get her to explain herself. understands what it is to You seem to be a hard-working and an be devoted and ambitious individual. There are women who committed enough not to admire men who work hard and are driven by engage in behaviour that ambition. They do not care much about the results in hurt and pain. academic status but instead they rather their men You can show your be ambitious. brother where to walk This lady has all the answers to your questions but unfortunately, you and all you have to do is to just ask. cannot walk for him. George George THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 19. V Leisure

ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ACROSS This is a great day to get out and enjoy You may want to take a look at your an entertaining evening with friends or direction in life. Catch up on 1. Hangar sights lovers. You will be able to get to the correspondence. You could find 5. Have bills bottom of things this week. yourself caught in a one sided 8. Opera soloist relationship. 12. Funny Baldwin 13. Employed oars TAURUS (Apr. 21- May 21) 14. At any time Travel will entice you; however, a SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Unrealistic promises will only get you in 15. Go by taxi tendency to overspend is quite 16. Fawn bearer possible. You may want to try your trouble. You can make profitable investments if you purchase an art 17. Plummeted hand at a little creative writing. 18. Christmas tune object for your home. Sudden trips will 20. Helpful tips take you by surprise. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) 21. Materialize It might be best to spend time fixing up 24. Trotting gait SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 25. Shore your premises and making changes that Do a little investigating if there is will be appreciated. You must refrain 26. Brownie ingredients someone at work you don’t trust. Don’t 30. Sick from overspending on entertainment. be too open or put your faith in 31. Florida city unreliable coworkers. Your best gains 33. Sewer-scurrying animal CANCER (June 22-July 22) will come through helping others 34. Becomes less shallow Invite friends over. Rest and relaxation emotionally. 36. Soaring predator may be required; minor health 38. Sought election 3. Media mogul Turner 35. Incarceration 43. Farm building problems will prevail if you don’t watch CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 39. Dozing 4. Public disturbances site 45. Positive vote your diet. Don’t rely on others to Anger might lead to carelessness and 40. Slow-moving garden 5. Command 37. Cautions 47. Curved line handle the workload. minor Injuries. Your ability to work with critter 6. Sweater fiber 39. Aspired (to) 48. By means of detail could help you achieve your 43. Chomp (down) 7. Fleecy female 40. Petty fight 49. Interminable 44. Wrestling maneuvers 8. Fashion creation 41. African river period LEO (July 23-Aug 22) goals. Think hard before going into business with friends or family. 45. Thanksgiving veggie 9. Russian czar 42. Poker stake Resist the temptation to gamble. Risks 46. Speak wildly 10. Duct outlet will not be profitable. Your ability to 11. Huge boats AQUARIUS (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 50. Voice range charm others will put you in the 51. Sooner than, to 19. Mushy cereal limelight at social functions. Do not let Travel will initiate new friendships or Emerson 20. Most sacred the reactions of others get you going. love connections. Someone you care 52. Wee jazz band 21. Caustic liquid about may not be too pleased with you. 53. Young adult 22. Fence support VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) 54. Tried – true 23. Like pastel colors PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 55. Skim over 24. Sweet spread Your creative talent will prove to be Your high energy will help you through lucrative if put to proper use. Show 26. Used to exist this rather hectic day. Spend some time DOWN 27. Impulse what a dedicated person you can be. with people who can shed some light 28. Made-up story SOLUTION Compromise may be necessary. on your personal situation. 1. Glass container 29. Walk (on) LAST WEEK’s 2. Yale student 32. Lodging house V 20. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. THE VINCENTIAN Seven NACAC medals for SVG

IN ONE OF THIS COUNTRY’S BEST Saturday afternoon to showing at an extra-regional Track and take silver in the Field Championships, St Vincent and the 400m, stopping the Grenadines finished the North American, clock at 48.97 seconds, Central American and Caribbean .53 secs behind Wayne (NACAC) Under-18, Under-20 and Under- Mc Coy of the 23 Championships with seven medals. Bahamas. Among the medals at the The other championships which ended in Costa Vincentian gold Rica last Sunday, there were three medallist was Uroy Shafiqua Maloney – Gold Medal in gold, three silver and a bronze. Ryan, whose 7.40m the Women’s Under-23 800m. Shafiqua Maloney won the Women’s was the best in the Under-23 800m in 2:08.13 and took Male Under-18 Long L-R: Ajani Daley in 10.68 seconds. silver in the 400m in a time of 52.73 Jump. And with that Handal Roban – Gold Medal in the Men’s Under- The other member of the team was seconds. jump, Ryan broke the 20 800m and Uroy Ryan – Gold medal in the Male Tamara Woodley, who placed fifth in Handal Roban extended his rich St Vincent and the Under-18 Long Jump. the Women’s Under-23 400m. Woodley vein of form when he took the gold Grenadines Under-20 clocked 56.76 seconds. medal in the Men’s Under-20 800m, record of 7.33m. Ryan, Welcome had a best leap of 13.16m, St Vincent and the Grenadines clocking 1:49.75 and in the process, who is based in Jamaica, had set the which earned her the silver medal. ended sixth in the standings, with etablished a new St Vincent and the national record earlier this year. Kyle Lawrence took bronze in the Jamaica topping the medal count. In Grenadines Under-20 record, beating Also mounting the podium for St male Under-18 100m on Friday, the all, seventeen countries participated. his own 1:49.94 set last month in Vincent and the Grenadines was first day of competition. His time was Khalil Cato travelled as the Jamaica. Mikeisha Welcome in the Women’s 10.71 seconds which trailed winner Vincentian team’s coach. Kineke Roban returned to the track Under-23 Triple Jump. On Sunday, Alicke Cranston of Jamaica- 10.42 Alexander served as Manager/ seconds, and Antigua and Barbuda’s Chaperone. Three SVG debutants for Local cyclists prep on Tokyo the tarmac THE ST VINCENT AND SEVEN LOCAL CYCLISTS returned THE GRENADINES to the decommissioned ET Joshua Olympic Committee has Airport last Sunday afternoon, for an named a three -member activity in preparation for the restart team for the 2020 of the SVG Cycling Union’s calendar Summer Olympics, to be for 2021. staged in Tokyo, Japan, The event saw the Elite Category from July 23 to August completing 13.2 miles, while the 8, 2021. Masters rode for 9.90 miles. The three — all First in the Elite Category was Olympics debutants, are Lucky Antrobus in a time of 41:5.52, Masters category from left- Carlos track athlete- Shafiqua with Ojarrah Mayers second in Rivas, Peter Durrant, Martin Bollers. Maloney; and swimmers 44:57.25. Finishing third was Rivas — Mya De Freitas and Young who had a clocking of 44.57.25. Rivas clocked 35:50.24 to gain second Shane Cadogan. Swimmers Mya De Freitas and Shane Cadogan place and third was Martin Bollers (pictured in separate Marlon Antrobus was the other Maloney, 22, leads the will join Shafiqua Maloney with a time of 36:23.47. article) cyclist in that category. His time was team as she was closest to comprise the SVG teams to the 2020 45:7.12. The cyclists will be back in to make the Women’s Tokyo Olympics. In the Masters Category, Peter competition this Sunday, but this 800m Olympic standard. time on the road. This Sunday’s race outing. She was unable in the Commonwealth Durrant was the first to complete the However, they all distance in a time of 33:23.71. Carlos will begin in Arnos Vale, on to received Universality to compete in the World Games in Glasgow, Diamond, with a finish Places to the Olympics, Junior Championships in Scotland, 2014; the at Belair. Meanwhile, as they did not meet the Poland in 2016, because World Champions in two of this country’s qualification standards of travel hiccups. Russia in 2015; the Elite cyclists- Zefal for the Games. Fifteen year-old De FINA World Swimming Bailey and Albert Maloney will be fresh Freitas, apart from Championships (25m) Quammie - were in held in China 2018; and from taking gold in the competing at the OECS action on Sunday in the World Swimming Women’s 800m of the and Carifta Swimming Antigua, as that Championships, Championships in 2019 country’s Cycling NACAC Under-18, in South Korea. Under-20 and Under-23 participated in the 2019 Federation hosted a 33- World Swimming Officials who will Championships, which mile road race dubbed Championships in South accompany the trio are: ended last Sunday at the ‘King of the Hills’. Korea and the 2019 Pan Jacintha Ballantyne - National Stadium in San However, neither of American Games held in Chief of Mission; the two made any Jose, Costa Rica. She Peru. Rawlson Morgan — also took silver in the podium finish. In the case of 20-year- Athletics Official; and Quammie placed fifth in 400m. old Cadogan, he goes to Simone France - The Olympics would Elite category from left- Ojarrah Mayers, Lucky 1:41.34.79 and Bailey Tokyo having competed Swimming Team’s was sixth in 1:42.21.34. be Maloney’s first major Official. Antrobus, Rivas Young, Marlon Antrobus. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 21. V Sports National T&F Championships as expected

IT WAS as expected: IT-DAT (21.51); Sylvanna Academy, XCEL Track and Field Club McKenzie — 20+ 800m took top honours at Team Athletics (2:06.28). SVG National Championship, which XCEL Track and Field was staged last weekend, at the Club excelled among the Diamond Track and Field Facility. males, with victories IT-DAT pushed their noses in coming from: Nelle front of the others club and teams. Ambriton — U20 800m Their victors among the (2:02.88) and 1500m females were: N’Kenna London — (4:22.35); Desroy Jordan — U15 1000m (3:44.21) and Long 20+ 400m (48.20); Ethan Jump (3.97m); Tyhra Charles — Isaac — U15 80m (9.94); U15 80m (10.48), 400m (1:01.36) Israel Cumberbatch - U15 and 200m (26.770); Shonte 1200m (3:55.02); Godwyn Jump (1.80m) and Discuss Relay action at the National Track and Field Matthias — U17 100m (12.52), Roban — 20+ Long Jump (6.76m) (29.23m), Male U20 100m (11.28) Championship last weekend at the Diamond 400m (1:06.37) and 200m (26.430; and High Jump (1.80m); Ronaldo and 200m (22.59); Devonric Mack Facility. Annicea Richards — 17+ 400m Andrews — U20 Long Jump — Boys U17 200m (11.10) and (56.74); Odesha Nanton — 17+ (6.23m) and Triple Jump 200m (22.59); Jefisha Ackie — 200m (25.70); Open Women (14.22m); Malik Ferdinand — U20 Open Female Long Jump (4.28m); Female 4x100m relay (50.92). 400 meters in 49.46; Open Mozart Lavia — Boys U17 400m in Among the males, IT DAT 4x400m relay (3:28.27) and Open 54.13. victors were: Ethan Myers — 4x100m relay (43.90). X-Ceed Sports Club had footballers in mixed 400m hurdles (57.51); With a smaller number of victories from: Girls 12-14, Markie Edwards 20+ 1500m entrants, High Performance 4x100m relay (58.68); J’Aivar (4:15.2); Andre Spencer — 20+ Athletics Club saw victories from: Cato - Boys U15 Long Jump tactical sessions Discus (38.90m); Ronaldo Zita Vincent — 15+ Girls 800m (4.67M); Nabia Pompey - Open Richards - U15 400 meters (53.85) (2:29.52) and 1500m Open Female Discus (24.44m); Kodi ‘ASPIRE to inspire: we and 200m (24.21); Sage Primus — (5:30.52); Kirk Hamlet — Male Grant - Boys U17 Discus teach, we learn, we grow 20+ 100 meters (10.78) and 200m U20 100 meters (11.28), High (20.00m). together on and off the field.’ This is the theme under which the Female goalkeepers in training Women’s Department of the SVG Football NATIONAL female upcoming tournaments. Federation is conducting goalkeepers are receiving “We are trying to a three-part virtual some specific training as bring the girls together series on technical both the Under-17 and to bring them up to the aspects of the sports for Under-19 teams intensify standard for the Under- female players. their preparation for 17 Tournament in July The first in the series was held on July 3rd, their upcoming and the Under-20 in during which National Theon Gordon, one of qualifiers. September. …. We are Under-17 Female the facilitators, hopes The training sessions working on their Football Team coach- that the virtual series are conducted by Urtis technical and tactical Andrew Bramble, will improve the players Blackett, National skills,” Blackett said in a conducted sessions on understanding of what Under-20 and Senior recent interview. positioning and is required in actually Female Teams He explained that this responsibility. playing football. goalkeeping coach, and (training) included, In the second in the Amalis Marshall Under- among other areas, series, held last Saturday, July 10, and led by 13 and Under-17 coach. catching, distributing the Theon Gordon, Athletics/Football coach and They are assisted by ball and use of the feet, administrator, participants were taken through, Kevin Richardson, the latter being an among other areas, detailed sessions in principles goalkeeping coach of the integral part of the of defense. National Men’s Senior modern game. The final in the series is slated for this team. Blackett underscored Saturday, July 17 and will zero in on principles of attack. Blackett needs no the importance of a good In commenting on his role, Gordon said, “My convincing that the goalkeeper saying, “Once defenders and every Goalkeepers in training task is basically to educate as many people as goalkeepers need the you have a competent other player trust the (Back L-R): Keyshanna possible about the game.” extra sessions, especially goalkeeper it’s like half goalkeeper, especially David, Kyshauna Addressing the value of the series, he identified those preparing for of the team, because the when they are under Richards, Khadia a lack of an “actual understanding” of what is pressure.” Ashton, Marsha required in the game, as one of the more telling Blackett is pleased Marshall; (Front L-R): deficits in football here. right Eshana Phillips, “I think with the understanding of these with the progress the principles we should play better,” Gordon said. girls have made thus far, Annjean Roach, Altica Benn. “So I am expecting that persons (participants) a sentiment shared by learn and share the knowledge… try to question it Marshall who admitted, and develop so that as a country and individuals though, that while “they areas to work on.” we can improve,” he added. have come a long way… She said that she was And as for feedback to date, Gordon said: they still have some giving special attention “Generally I thought, based on the feedback I got to positioning and at the end and throughout the session, that Urtis Blackett (left) and angling, foot work and persons were clear and they understood the Amalis Marshall (right) “generally things that concept of the session.” conducted the trai9ning you do in a game.” Participants are also expected to be exposed the sessions, with the The training is being ‘SVGFF Philosophy of the Sport’. assistance of Kevin conducted at Victoria Richardson (centre). Park. Stories I.B.A.ALLEN 22. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 . THE VINCENTIAN V Sports Minister hopeful for Sports’ full return THIS country’s Minister of there are some hard Sport - Frederick courts that are yet to Stephenson wants to see a open. Going for gold wholesome return of He noted, however, competitions here, in the that any full return of FORTUNES can change in the twinkling of an shortest possible time sporting competitions is eye. You could be flying high in July, and by frame. contingent on the August you are shot down. But that’s no reason to Stephenson expressed reduction on the number be despondent. That’s how life goes. the sentiment last of active coronavirus The management of the Trinidad and Tobago Saturday as he viewed cases here. senior football squad will reflect on their recent encounters with some amazement. They must the hosting of Team Apart from the actual have quickly dismissed the shock of the World Athletics SVG’s National active competitions, Cup qualifying chance with that Bahamas Championships at the Stephenson alluded to debacle. Diamond Track Facility. people involving They endured a similar goalless draw this time “I want to see all themselves in more against Mexico in the opening salvo of the Gold sporting disciplines physical activities. Cup campaign. Fans will recall a thrilling four all getting back in full result between those two teams in a Gold Cup pretty soon rather than Diamond Track Facility clash previously. But that latest encounter taken later… I am looking for intro context will be greeted with satisfaction by the sporting facilities Delighted with what the Caribbean lads. opening back up in full, took place at the The sad story is that El Salvador disposed of once the necessary Diamond Track Facility the Trinidad and Tobago squad. health protocols are in on Saturday, Stephenson El Salvador has advanced to the quarterfinals, place and we follow the commented, “This is a having beaten Guatemala by the same margin as protocols,” Stephenson great improvement to they did the Soca warriors. Sports Minister Frederick Stephenson (right) in The irony is that Trinidad and Tobago had to expressed. what we have had before “We had the VPL that …The athletes are conversation with Track and Field Coach Godfrey take care of Montserrat in order to reach the Harry last Saturday, at the Diamond Track Facility. second round of the Gold Cup. went well despite we had performing well and are And their obstacle was Montserrat who have a little controversy making use of this major Track and Field the big Inter- Schools’ earned some impressive results in recent because some persons Athletics facility here at events will be hosted at Championships held here encounters including the very El Salvador. did not do the necessary Diamond… I know this the facility in the not too next year for the first Grenada put up a brave show against social distancing, (but) I would augur well in distant future. time”, Stephenson Honduras in their first match, but the 4:0 loss am hoping that Football, terms of the development “I am hopeful that the projected. will come as a wake-up call. Cricket, Basketball and of Athletics here in St The Spice Islanders have the chance to schools will come out Last Saturday’s Netball get back to their Vincent and the later on this year and National Championships rebound against Qatar in their next outing. The full operation”. Grenadines”. Middle Eastern country is using this tournament early next year to do was the first major event And while he “…would Stephenson expressed their internal held at the Diamond to fine-tune preparation for the 2022 World they like to see the stadiums optimism that with will be hosting. championships and facility since its official Sixteen teams are lined up for the Gold Cup. (sporting facilities) filled Team Athletics SVG which will culminate in opening last November. Which will be decided August 1. again,” he admitted that leading the way, other SVG missed out on reaching that stage through a combination of misfortune. No one can accuse the players of lack of commitment. Sports can throw up some remarkable scenarios. WPP assists cricketers Results are unpredictable as the weather. So, teams, coaches, administrators, fans, must be prepared for anything. THE SVG Cricket coronavirus which causes the intention was to have and Association and Focus is also on the Olympics, being finalised Association COVID-19, included ten the items used by described the donation as with a backdrop of uncertainty. Inc.(SVGCA)was recently tents, face shields, national cricketers in “…a thoughtful and I, for one thought that the conditions were not on the receiving end of a facemasks, hand upcoming training camps valuable, …. one that rife for such an undertaking. But others are not timely and essential sanitizers, and disaster and team-building will aid our programme going to allow a generation of athletes to miss out donation from the World health/hygiene kits. The activities. for young cricketers on such a prestigious spectacle. Pediatric Project (WPP), value of the items was She noted, “While our across the country.” This year’ exercise, already forced into a locally headquarter put at EC$10,000. key objective is to ensure He was especially adjustments, will be remembered for more than non-profit organization In handing over the that children have access thankful for the kits the records smashed, medals secured, and that provides critical items to Romel Currency to advance and timely which he said would friendship developed. tertiary healthcare to and Miles Bascobme — surgical care, within our provide the Association A cloud of uncertainty hangs over almost children throughout the President and Vice network we have with the wherewithal to everything on the world stage presently. One Eastern Caribbean and President respectively of alliances who are engage those cricketers never knows how the situation unfolds. Central America, at no the SVGCA — at the enthusiastic about who have been affected With the Diamond Track and Field Facility (aka Sir Vincent Beache Stadium) available, cost to the families. Association’s office in supporting these types of by the volcanic eruption, athletes have chances of reaching their goals. The donation, in Arnos Vale on July 6, community initiatives.” in a safe environment. It is left to hard work and commitment by the keeping with the 2021, Lauren McIntosh, President Currency individuals. national effort to combat Executive Director/WPP expressed gratitude on I.B.A.ALLEN I admire the determination of those who cast the spread of the Eastern Caribbean, said behalf of his Executive aside doubts and fears about staging the Olympic Games and defied logics to see its fulfilment. The era of comprise remains a scarce commodity, and people seemed fixed in their pattern of productivity. However, with the changing face of global activity, the question of priority continues to be an important aspect of everyday choices. Cricket fans will relish the staging of the Caribbean Premier League, arranged to accommodate the completion of the Indian Premier League. Caribbean players will be glad for another opportunity to strut their stuff on the world stage. Only thing is that players tend to get carried away and feel obsessed on vanity at the expense of practical measures. Some of the items donated by WPP to the SVGCA. THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021. 23. V Classifieds National Diagnostic Tests concerns

Continued from Backpage.

At least one teacher told media personnel on Tuesday that the school year has been very difficult and a lot of the areas that were supposed to be covered were not because of time. “And you are worried now about what might be placed on this government issued examination,” the teacher added and noted further that there was also limited time for preparation of the exam. The National Diagnostic Tests began on Tuesday 13th July with Reading.

PHILMORE WARREN ALBERTINA JOSEPH better known as Pedro Sunday, 11th July, 2021 Saturday, Grace & Truth 10th July, 2021 Church Greggs Kingstown Gospel Hall Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Service: 10:30 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m. Interment: Interment: Kingstown Cemetery Bascombe Cemetery, Greggs

KASWALD JAMES SHAWN A. KNIGHTS RAHEEM DURHAM a.k.a. Scatta Sunday, Saturday, 11th July, 2021 10th July, 2021 Sunday, Mt. Sinai Church Green Hill 11th July, 2021 Largo Height Evangelical Church Glen Christian Viewing: 11:00 a.m. Viewing: 10:00 a.m. Church Service: 12:00 noon Service: 11:00 a.m. Viewing:10:00 a.m. Interment: Interment: Service: 11:00 a.m. Kingstown Kingstown Interment: Golden Cemetery Cemetery Vale Cemetery AI REAL ESTATE Revierre 26,410 sq.ft @ $4.00 p.s.f. - $105,640.00 - BB193 Twenty Hill 5 bedrm Property on 13,464 sq.ft - $650,000.00 - H116 Chauncey 6 bedrm Property on 4,456 sq.ft. - $290,556.00 - H513 Chauncey 11,129 sq.ft. - $100,000.00 - BB221

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

FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 VOLUME 115, No.28 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50 NATIONAL DIAGNOSTIC TESTS CONCERNS

weaknesses, and then to plan to cater to the strengths and weaknesses. However, Senior Education Officer for Exams and Assessment Bernadette Greaves said the National Diagnostic Tests’ ultimate aim is to help students to improve on their learning through special interventions and remediation programmes. The education officials dismissed the notion that that test will be used for promotional purposes. Greaves confirmed that the tests seek to diagnose students’ strengths and weaknesses in relation to the school’s curriculum and learning standards in Language Arts and Mathematics. Greaves explained that “Usually this assessment is done only in Grades 2 and 4. So why did we take this stand? It is because students’ learning was affected by the COIVID-19 pandemic and as we all know, the eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano. So the Ministry of Education needed some sort of indication on how students are performing in Oswald Robinson, President of the SVG Teachers relation to the curriculum and to the learning Union, questioned the ‘wisdom’ of doing standards.” standardized diagnostic tests when there was clear variance in the amount of instructional time Bernadette Greaves, Senior Education Officer for Continued on Page 23. (online) for students. Exams and Assessment, dismissed the notion that that tests will be used for promotional purposes. GRADES K AND 1 YET by KENVILLE HORNE THE DECISION by the Ministry of Education to have a TO GET TABLETS National Diagnostic Tests for Grades 2 to 6 is not sitting well with some parents, teachers and the SVG KINDERGARTEN and Grade 1 access online classes and other Teachers Union. students are yet to receive tablets educational resources,” King told President of the SVG Teachers Union Oswald as promised by the government. the Parliament. Robinson said that it is unfair that students have to Education Minister Curtis King And the provision of tablets to take the standardized exam or assessment at this said in his response to Terrence students and teachers form part time, as some students would be at a disadvantage. Ollivierre during the July 6 of the government’s initiative to “One of the major concern is that it is a sitting of the House of Assembly, integrate ICT into the curriculum standardized test. So how could you do a that the devises to cater to these to support the digital learning, standardized test when all schools were not students were already procured King continued. teaching online at the same rate at the same pace? and were expected to arrive here He added that his ministry was There are students at different socio- economic by the end of July. However, that presently exploring the option of shipment has since been delayed. purchasing e-text books in order backgrounds. All the students at all the schools are To date, 2,116 tablets have to reduce the number of physical not at the same level so that is something that the been distributed to students at text books that students are authorities have to look at,” said Robinson. the St Vincent and the required to take to school. The Teachers’ Union President said that the test Grenadines Community College; Back in 2020, the government is called a diagnostic test but it is more than that, 9,744 to secondary school announced its intent to supply because they are going to use it for promotional students; 9,541 to primary school Grade 6 and secondary school purposes. students. Some 843 secondary students only, but later stated “They have to promote the students, why would school teachers and 993 primary that it had been negotiating with you have such a test?” asked Robinson, adding that school teachers also received a number of vendors and his understanding of a diagnostic test is to see The first tablets were rolled out devices. suppliers and that each student where one is in terms of their strengths and to Grade 6 and secondary “The goal is to ensure that across the country would receive a school students. every student has a device to device. (DD) Published by The VINCENTIAN Publishing Co. Ltd, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; Printed by the SVG Publishers Inc., Campden Park.