At The Pumps This Weekend Maximum Price ULG per gal 25/03/10 DELTA $13.01 SHELL $12.42 Year 52 NO. 44BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, W.I. FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 EC$2.00 TEXACO $11.42 “ We have to learn to do VAT to replace more with less,” says PM several taxes, public Douglas in Budget 2010 consultation begins in Lesroy W. Williams April, Prime Minister Basseterre (March 24, 2010)— Citing the global economic crisis Douglas announces in as the backdrop in the 2010 Budget Address, Prime Minister and Budget Address Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas outlined a number BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, MARCH 23RD 2010 (CUOPM) – St. of initiatives to control Kitts and Nevis has announced November 1st 2010 as the date for the expenditure, eliminate excesses introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the twin-island Federation. and eradicate inefficiencies within Delivering the 2010 Budget Address in the National Assembly on the public sector as the Tuesday, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Denzil L. government moves forward to Douglas said there are too many indirect taxes at different rates that reduce the Public Sector Debt, make the system complex and it will replace several taxes. which stood at EC $2.54 billion at “The current tax system promotes cascading of taxes or double the end of December 2008 while it taxation of goods. The ECCU Tax Reform and Administration continues with the transitioning of Commission in fact recommended that all indirect taxes within the the economy from a sugar-based sub-region be replaced by a VAT. A VAT would streamline the tax to a services-oriented one. system by replacing the Consumption Tax, Hotel and Restaurant Tax, “Mr. Speaker, the budget I have Cable TV Tax, Traders Tax, Vehicle Rental Levy, Export and Rum Duty, presented here today is a budget Telecommunications Levy (IDD Calls) and Parcel Tax,” said Prime that is appropriate for the times. Minister Douglas. The entire global community is in He said that a Public Awareness and Education Campaign for the the midst of what is undoubtedly introduction of the VAT is scheduled to begin in April 2010, and that the most challenging times of this the matter will be taken to Parliament in May to introduce and enact century, during which policy the necessary legislation. makers all over the globe have had “This will be accompanied by the circulation of the White Paper to tackle economic problems that and several pamphlets, booklets and posters which the public and rival many of the major crises of potential taxable persons can refer to from time to time. There will also the last century in scope and be radio and television programmes as well as publications in the magnitude,” Prime Minister Dr. newspapers and the internet,” said Dr. Douglas. Douglas said. He said that a Tax Reform Team will conduct workshops and “Mr. Speaker, the current seminars targeted at specific interest groups, businesses and environment requires us to do individuals and will also be available to meet with members of the more with less,” he said. general public to answer any question and address any concern that The long anticipated 2010 they may have. Budget Address, which was “Potential VAT and Excise taxpayers will be identified and provided St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister and Minister of with application and registration forms. Registered businesses would delayed because of the January Finance, Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas delivering the 2010 25th General Elections, and be required to adopt proper accounting standards for the collection presented on Tuesday, March 23, Budget Address in the National Assembly on Tuesday of VAT. The Tax Reform Team will design a series of advisory visits was leaner and trimmer than that 23rd March 2010. (Photo by Erasmus Williams) targeted at registered businesses to ensure that they understand their of 2009 presented by the then book keeping requirements and provide assistance to ensure that Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Douglas said that the Government 2008,” he said. their operations are VAT compliant,” said the Prime Minister and Timothy Harris. was making significant progress in Dr. Douglas said that given the Minister of Finance. Admitting that “the road to reducing the public debt. volatile global economic climate, Dr. Douglas said that another important part of the process is the acceptable levels of debt is still “The Total Public Sector Debt the Eastern Caribbean Central passage of the relevant legislation and it is imperative that the long and arduous, and filled with expressed as a percentage of GDP Bank (ECCB) has recommended legislation be drafted and enacted several months before the many obstacles and risks,” Dr. fell by 17.8 percentage points from that all OECS countries approach introduction of the tax to allow for meaningful consultation on the Douglas said that debt reduction 182.8% in 2007 to 165.0% in 2008 the International Monetary Fund specific impact and operation of the VAT and facilitate timely must be a priority in this year’s while that of the Central registration of VAT taxpayers as well as effective dissemination of Government fell from 118.4% of budget and in budgets to come. (cont’d on page 3) However, Prime Minister Dr. GDP in 2007 to 106.8 % of GDP in (cont’d on page 3)

PAGE 02 PAGE 20 COMMENTARY BY PAGE 23 Minister Phillip hails * THE THINKING CITIZEN * SOTTO VOCE Revised Edition of * VIEW POINT inspirational performance St. Christopher’s Laws * SOTTO VOCE * EARLE CLARKE launched of Verchilds High * EARL CLARKE * THE THINKING CITIZEN 2 - OPINION / LOCAL NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 Revised Edition of St. Christopher’s

THE SPOKESMAN - ESTABLISHED MAY 1957 Laws launched Published by: The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades & Labour Union By Melissa Amsterdam Ag. Managing Director Editor: Dawud Byron New Revised Editions of the Masses House, Church Street Laws of St. Kitts and Nevis were P.O Box 239 . Basseterre . St. Kitts . West Indies launched at Government House (Springfield) on 23rd March, for Tel: (1 869) 465-2229 <> Fa: (1 869) 466-9866 the first time in over forty years. Email: [email protected] The Revised Editions which Website: www.labourspokesman.com are a compilation of 13 volumes of laws from the period 1961-2002 were unveiled and put on display for the perusal of the legal Editorial fraternity of the Federation, during the official launching ceremony. The undertaking of the project began in 2002 by the Legal Dr. Douglas charts new Department with the main purpose to update and consolidate the Governor General, His Excellency, Sir. Cuthbert Sebastian, enjoying financial Architecture laws of the Federation. the efforts of the Law Revision Commission, while thumbing through Mr. Serwano Mukasa, the Law one of the 13 volumes. Photos by: Willett’s Photo Studio for next ¼ Century for completed. Also contributing at the St. Kitts and Nevis launching ceremony to the success of the New Revised Dr. Douglas in an incisive two and a half hours presentation laid out Edition Laws were Charles Wilkins a new financial architecture for St. Kitts and Nevis. This is the fourth Q.C, President of the St. Kitts and time in the last thirty (30) years that fundamental changes had to be Nevis Bar Association; His made in the financial architecture of St. Kitts and Nevis and stringent Excellency and Minister of Justice corrective measures had to be made to steady the Ship of State and and Legal Affairs, Delano Bart place the country on a steady path to progress and development. Q.C; and Hon. Patrice Nisbett, In 1980 after the change of government from the St. Kitts-Nevis Attorney General. Labour Party to the People’s Action Movement (PAM) a new financial Messages were relayed for Dr. architecture was put in place, elements of which are with us today. Dennis Merchant, General One of the next fundamental decisions then was the abolition of Counsel and His Lordship the Personal Income Taxes and the replacement of revenue lost by taxes on Hon. Hugh Rawlins, Chief Justice goods and services, in particular the increase in Customs Duties and of the Easter Caribbean Supreme Consumption Tax and the advent of Traders Tax and Social Services Prime Minister Douglas, taking at look at the thirteen volumes of the Court who were regrettably Levy. This was a fundamental change in the financial architecture of St. revised laws that were unveiled at Government House on Tuesday unable to attend the event. They Kitts and Nevis. 23rd. both echoed their pleasure at During the period 1990-1993 there was a similar significant hiatus in having the Federation’s laws national development where in spite of the construction of the Four Revision Commissioner appointed the laws will be filed electronically revised. Seasons’ Hotel in Nevis and the construction of the South East Peninsula by His Excellency Delano Bart QC, in a data base. Mr. Wilkins’ brief remarks Road, the economy, especially of St. Kitts experienced significant slow- outlined the journey and efforts it “To Dr. Dennis Merchant I included his pleasure at having down of economic activity and there was extreme hopelessness in the took to assume the immense extend my appreciation and seen the fruition of the revised society. project. gratitude. He like his predecessor laws. That was the period where there was not a single international air He labeled the task as a long – Delano Bart QC – gave me all the He said that “it is a welcome carrier – no BWIA, no PANAM, no American Airlines. and arduous one in which a necessary support that I needed to relief to all legal practioners and In the first period after 1980, the country benefitted from the significant amount of time, energy ensure that the preparation of the fills a yearning gap in the legal completion of the Deep water Harbour at Bird Rock and the expansion of and expertise was put into. Revised Editions came to a system”. the cruise passenger arrivals so that the drop in government revenues Mr. Mukasa added that the successful conclusion,” Mukasa Wilkins said that attorneys from the abolition of Personal Income Tax was compensated by the features of the volumes include said. who will be practising in the future increased income brought in by sustained cruise passenger revenues. the ability to file and collate any He also thanked Prime Minister, After the second shock in 1990-1993, the Government headed by Dr. new laws that will be inserted in Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas for his Kennedy Simmonds, started the Port Zante passenger cruise facility to the future. He also pointed out that insistence in seeing the project (cont’d on page 23) provide good shopping facilities and better berthing facilities for increased revenues from the tourism sector. The third period of severe economic shock and distress occurred in ailing economy. His prescription is to curtail the period 2001 to 2003 after the devastation of the September 11th expenditure given that revenue is expected to decline and the people of St. Kitts and Nevis are fortunate in terrorist attacks on the USA. Economies throughout the Caribbean over 2009. having steady and experienced hand on the helm of tottered on the brink of economic collapse. The Government of St. Kitts Recurrent Revenue for 2010 is estimated at the Ship of State. Barbados changed its political crew and Nevis embarked on a bold period of public infrastructural $432.9 million while Recurrent Expenditure is in December 2007 and it is experiencing very turbulent development to stimulate the economy and to provide jobs for the citizens expected to be $430 million leaving a Current waters. Imagine what would have happened to St. of St. Kitts and Nevis such as community centres, road building projects, Account balance of $2.9 million. The Prime Minister Kitts and Nevis if the Ship of state was in the untried housing and water and electricity projects. is charting a new direction with the advent of a Value and untested hands of Lindsay Grant and his motley Since 2009, the fourth shock to the economic system occurred after Added Tax (VAT) to provide fiscal stability and to crew. Dog would have eaten our supper. the global system went into deep recession high-lighted by the buttress government revenues. The astute Captain Douglas will confidently pilot tremendous instability occurring in the USA and Western Europe. St. A Public Awareness and Education Campaign is this Ship into calm waters. We have experienced five Kitts and Nevis also sustained severe economic contraction in 2009 and expected to start as early as April 2010 while VAT (5) hurricanes in 4 years under his leadership and the even though the world economy is slowly recovering 2010 is not expected legislation is required by May 2010. VAT is expected explosive aftermath of September 11th 2001 and we to be any better than 2009. Government therefore has to put in place to be implemented by the beginning of November have survived and sailed majestically on the calmer policy adjustments to correct the ship of state and to provide expert 2010. waters. steerage to a safe harbour. Dr. Douglas proposed that one of the ways to We expect that captain Douglas with his vast Dr. Douglas, the country’s Finance Minister in a masterly display of reduce expenditure is to enforce the normal experience in weathering greater storms will take in force, vigour and sheer statesmanship presented a shrewdly crafted retirement age for the Civil Service employees of 55 the reefs of the sails, change his course to take Budget to correct the ills identified before and to keep the ship of state years. Civil Servants attaining age 55 will be advantage of favourable winds and sail the SS St. on a steady course of progress and development. As growth is expected encouraged to retire by September 2010. Kitts and Nevis into safe harbour. We comment Dr. to be minimal in 2010, the good doctor has prescribed medicine for the These are trying times in the world economy Douglas and his epoch-making Budget to safe harbour The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 3 We have to learn to do more with LABOUR PARTY NOTICE less ..... (cont’d from page 1) The West Basseterre Labour Branch (IMF) for funding during these difficult times. Will be holding its However, Dr. Douglas said that the Ministry of Finance was examining the proposals and the impact that it would have on the country before Monthly General Meeting proceeding with the recommendation from the ECCB. As part of the whole overhaul of the financial system, Dr. Douglas On Wednesday, 31st March, 2010 said that ways must be found in cutting the Government’s payroll At the “without compromising the services” that the Government provides. “No additional positions will be approved or filled in Government West Basseterre Constituency Office except if it can be proven that some attempt has been made to fill the At 7:00 p.m. position internally without the incurrence of additional expenditure,” Dr. Douglas said. The Hon. Sam Condor, Parliamentary Representative will be in Also, those who have reached the retirement age in Government of attendance, all are invited and asked to be punctual. fifty-five would be formally asked to take their retirement as “we have found this situation to be unsustainable over the years,” he said. Only in rare cases where persons possessing particular skills are not VAT to replace several taxes ...... “To offset any significant found within the Public Sector will the Government hire persons on a (cont’d from page 1) shortfall in revenue due to the contract in a consultancy or advisory capacity “for a specific period or introduction of a VAT at a lower on a job basis if applicable and justifiable,” the Minister of Finance, Dr. information to taxable persons and the general public. rate, an Excise Tax is often Douglas said. VAT legislation is to be passed in the National Assembly by May implemented in conjunction with However, Dr. Douglas gave the assurance that no public servant 2010. VAT. The Excise Tax is normally would be fired and that “the measures to be implemented in this budget He said that the proposed VAT must be seen as an opportunity to limited to a small range of goods have been crafted such that any potential adverse impact on our people completely reform the existing tax structure and VAT will apply to many such as alcoholic beverages, is minimized”. services which hitherto have not been bearing their fair burden of tobacco products, petroleum But one of the most comprehensive of all measures to be undertaken responsibility in the country even though they are full beneficiaries of products, motor vehicles and in 2010 is the implementation of Tax Reform, which would include a Value the fruits of a burgeoning economy. aerated beverages,” said Minister Added Tax (VAT) to be introduced later in the year, he said. “It is highly anticipated that this measure will improve the efficiency of Finance. The VAT would replace several taxes including the Consumption in the tax system, add some degree of equality and fairness and also He said that the introduction Tax, Hotel and Restaurant Tax, Cable TV Tax, Traders Tax, Vehicle Rental provide fiscal stability as an alternative source of revenue for Government of a VAT is not unique to St. Kitts Levy, Export and Rum Duty, Telecommunications Levy (IDD Calls) and away from its heavy dependence on Taxes on International Trade. Mr. and Nevis as a number of other Parcel Tax. Instead of all these taxes, there will be one tax, The Value Speaker, we therefore expect that, provided all of the consultations, Caribbean countries have Added Tax. discussions and training exercises are completed as planned, we will implemented or are considering the Before the VAT is introduced, Dr. Douglas said a Tax Reform Team introduce the VAT by the beginning of November 2010,” said Dr. Douglas. implementation of a tax similar to will conduct workshops and seminars to educate specific interest groups, As Minister of Finance, he invited all stakeholders, interest groups, VAT. businesses and the general public about the tax. the business community, churches, taxpayers and the wider public to Jamaica, Barbados and participate in the discussions, debates and consultations. Trinidad and Tobago have “It is your responsibility to be informed of all the issues and to make implemented VAT with positive VAT within the next year. The process for the introduction of valuable contributions to the design of a VAT for the Federation in order results for several years. Belize, implementation of VAT in the VAT has a number of key to facilitate a successful implementation,” said Dr. Douglas. Dominica and Guyana have also Federation will foster components including Publicity, In reviewing the issue of Tax Reform, which is the most introduced a VAT since early 2006. harmonization in the Eastern Public Consultation and comprehensive of the measures which will be undertaken in 2010, Dr. Our fellow OECS countries such Caribbean Currency Union. Education; Enactment of VAT & Douglas noted that in the 2009 budget address, it was announced that as, Antigua and Barbuda, St. He said that the Tax Reform Excise Tax Legislation; the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis had established a Tax Reform Vincent and the Grenadines and Team, with technical assistance Institutional and Capacity Building Team within the Ministry of Finance to analyze whether the Federation Grenada have recently introduced from CARTAC, has developed a of Staff Systems and Procedures; should consider introducing a Value Added Tax (VAT) and to examine VAT, while Saint Lucia is currently detailed Implementation Schedule and Taxpayer Registration and the technical issues of implementing a VAT within the Federation. working on the implementation of for a VAT. The implementation Training. He said that the technical team reviewed reports from the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) Tax Reform and Administration Commission, as well as from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) through the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) that have recommended the introduction of a VAT within the Federation. In addition, the team has travelled to other CARICOM countries with the objective of evaluating the operation of a VAT in small open economies like that of the Federation. The Team has also studied our Tax System in depth in light of the environment in which we are now operating and the developmental goals of our economy. The Team, after extensive research and analysis, has produced a White Paper outlining why a VAT should be introduced within the Federation and elaborating on the technical issues relating to its design in light of the uniqueness of the economic and social environment. “Faced with the external constraint of lower revenues from Taxes on International Trade, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, after careful consideration of the various recommendations, has decided to embark on a comprehensive Tax Reform Programme and the implementation of VAT will form an integral part of the reform process aimed at increasing overall administrative efficiency in the tax system and broadening the tax base to improve its revenue generating capacity. “A VAT regime will provide some measure of fiscal stability as it is capable of generating reliable and consistent revenues for the Government,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who added that in many developing countries, like St. Kitts and Nevis, the tax base is narrow, so governments must rely on relatively high tax rates to generate revenue. “Fortunately, we have managed to keep our tax rates relatively low and attractive notwithstanding our small size, but we must enhance the coverage of our taxes if we are to continue to keep our tax rates sufficiently low to attract investment and foster productivity. Successfully reforming our tax system will involve shifting from a reliance on a narrow international trade base plus a limited domestic production base to a broader consumption base. This is precisely what a tax like the VAT will do,” said Dr. Douglas. 4 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 PM Douglas: Deposits and 2010 loans increased in 2008; Budget “There is money in the Sets Out country” Youth (Labour Secretariat): In presenting the 2010 Budget address for the economic and fiscal Develop- plans of the St Kitts/Nevis Government, Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Dr. the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas highlighted that as of the end of ment December 2008, assets held by the Commercial Banking Sector grew to $4.0 billion and there was growth in deposits, loans and advances as Initiatives well. Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 25, “The Commercial Banking Sector has played an instrumental role in 2010 (SKNIS): The Government of the development of our economy over the years. In the face of global St. Kitts and Nevis is pushing financial turmoil, our Commercial Banking Sector has performed ahead with its plans to produce a commendably,” Dr. Douglas stated in the National Assembly on Tuesday large pool of skilled individuals morning of this week. poised to take advantage of As indicated by him, this increase in the banking sector represents a opportunities that will be 7.2% increase over the $3.7 billion recorded at the end of the previous generated by the expanding year, adding that for the year under review, deposits as well as loans and economy. advances also grew. “Deposits grew by $63.2 million to reach $2.5 billion at year end while loans and advances grew by $100.5 million to reach $2.2 billion,” the Finance Minister stated. “Liquidity in the banking system remained healthy over the period under review,” stated Dr. Douglas, declaring that “there is money in the country.” He remarked, “The increase in loans and advances is attributed to increases in lending to the Agriculture, Construction, Distributive Trade, Tourism and Personal Sectors.” Dr. Douglas said during the first half of 2008, the Caribbean region struggled with the commodity crisis which manifested itself in high prices for oil and food and that the financial meltdown in the United States occurred in the latter months of that year and quickly spread to other markets across the globe significantly affecting many firms through reduced consumption and investment. According to him “The effects of the crisis initially materialized as a construction, beauty services, downturn in tourism, the major exchange earner for most states in the business administration, industrial Leadership issues at the region, and eventually resulted in declines in other vital sectors as credit maintenance, agriculture and primary and secondary school tightened and consumer demand dwindled”, adding that the Minister of Youth, Honourable others. levels will be addressed with the circumstances were made even more difficult by the collapse of the CL Glenn Phillip, disclosed that While giving support to the establishment of youth councils Financial Group, which placed strain on a region that was already Government’s commitment to 2010 Budget, Minister Phillip told and the entrepreneurial spirit will struggling to manage the fallout of the global recession. youth empowerment and training the Federal Parliament, and the be spurred and nurtured under a The Finance Minister was pleased however that here in the Caribbean was “demonstrated by the Nation that a graduation and related youth empowerment region, (including the Federation of St.Kitts/Nevis), we are fortunate provision of substantial financial certification process would programme. At-risk youth will also that, through the effective regulation and supervision of commercial support for the Youth commence in April. be targeted in an upcoming that banks by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), the Banking Sector Empowerment through Skill – He added that efforts would would limit the impact of antisocial has demonstrated considerable resilience. Project Y.E.S.” The initiative was continue to strengthen the influences. “It has become clear, therefore, that the stability of the financial launched in February 2009 and relationship between the “The Ministry of Youth sector would be significantly enhanced by regional approaches to the was designed to provide gainful Department of Youth and YES Empowerment was created to regulation of non-bank financial institutions and greater integration of employment for the Nation’s Programme. attend to the peculiar needs of our the regulatory and supervisory functions in the entire financial sector, youths. It equips participants with The operations of the young people in light of the including the banking sector and the non-bank financial sector,” he the necessary skills, training, Department of Youth will also be important role that our youth play said. attitudes and competencies to enhanced with the introduction of in the development of St. Kitts and satisfy the shortages of skilled new programmes, backed by an Nevis,” Prime Minister, artisans that can be later utilized increase in fiscal allocation. Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas throughout the burgeoning Minister Phillip revealed that said. “The Ministry will focus on economy. youths could look forward to activities aimed at encouraging “To date, Project YES has initiatives such as Youth Against youth to follow positive lifestyles, processed over 1,400 applicants Dangerous Drugs and Drug and [have] an early intervention between the ages of 16 to 35 years Abuse, an Anti Child Obesity in the lives of troubled youth and and has successfully trained and Programme, as well as a Bikes Not to empower youth by developing attached approximately 915 Bombs initiative and Enhanced in them an entrepreneurial spirit.” persons,” the Minister of Youth Parenting Training. Empowerment expressed, highlighting some of the areas covered, including hospitality, The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 5 St.Kitts- Nevis hosts St. Kitts and Nevis meets international annual Regional standards on tax exchange information BASSETERRE, ST. Security System KITTS, MARCH 25TH 2010 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Council, Ministers Nevis has been placed on the white list of the OECD Meeting countries. The twin-island Federation The St.Kitts Marriott Resort and Royal Beach Casino will be the venue of the 2010 Regional, Security System (R.S.S) Council of Ministers, was among three Caribbean Council which opens today, Friday 26th March, at the St. Kitts Marriott jurisdictions – the others being Resort and Royal Beach Casino, Frigate Bay, St.Kitts. St. Vincent and the Grenadines said the Chairman of the Regional Security Council of Ministers, St. and Anguilla – who now meet Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas will preside internationally agreed over the meeting. standards on exchange of tax The Regional Security System (RSS) comprises the islands of Antigua information, the OECD said and Barbuda, Barbados, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St. Wednesday. St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Organization for Australia’s High Commissioner to St. Kitts and Nevis His Excellency The Council of Ministers is the supreme policy making body of the Economic Cooperation and Philip Kentwell signing a Tax Information Exchange Agreement System and is made up of the Ministers’ responsible for Defence and (TIEA) last month. Security in each Member State. Development said the entities had signed a total of 14 tax Regional Security Coordinator, Mr. Grantley Watson visited St. Kitts and Nevis and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines now reaching information exchange late January to discuss regional security matters with Prime Minister this benchmark, almost all the Caribbean jurisdictions have agreements with other Douglas. substantially implemented the standard, and we will be working Dr. Douglas was updated on administrative as well as operational countries and are now with the remaining jurisdictions — both in the Caribbean and matters of the RSS and assured him of the commitment of the RSS to considered to have elsewhere — to encourage them to follow this trend.” assist with the crime fighting initiatives of the security forces. “substantially implemented” an St. Kitts and Nevis were scheduled on March 24 to sign tax While in the Federation Mr. Watson held discussions with the international reporting standard. information exchange agreements with six (6) Nordic countries. Security Chiefs and members of the High Command of the Police and The standard, developed by Defence Forces on several security issues. Previously Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEA’s) the OECD in 2002, was were signed with Australia, Monaco, The Netherlands, The designed to combat harmful tax Netherlands Antilles, Aruba, United Kingdom, Denmark, Belgium, practices through the sharing of New Zealand and Liechtenstein. tax data among nations. St. Kitts and Nevis has already initialled or concluded negotiations “We continue to see a great with and are awaiting dates for signature with Canada, France, Germany, deal of progress as jurisdictions Norway, Sweden, Greenland, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Finland and San move to sign agreements,” said Marino. Jeffrey Owens, head of the The Federation has commenced discussions with India, Japan, OECD’s centre for tax policy the Republic of Seychelles and the United States on Tax and administration. Information Exchange Agreement but has not yet confirmed the “With Anguilla, Saint Kitts text for these agreements.

Mr. de Cuba noted that the visit [to Nevis] is most related to have the task to help the Ministry OAS had always regarded the another aspect that is also of Public Utilities, Works, Energy energy sector that promoted important in the overall and Housing in facilitating the Photo: Regional Security Co-ordinator, Mr. Grantly Watson (right) renewable energy development development of sustainable process of collecting information briefs Chairman of the Regional Security System (RSS), St. Kitts and and was committed to assist energy which is related to the involving all the key stakeholders Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas late January. governments in their task of development of a national energy in the energy sector and making (Photo by Erasmus Williams) diversifying their economies and policy. sure that everybody’s visions to look for cheaper alternatives “I am here with my colleague concerns and opportunities are and more environmental friendly Mr. Andreas Jansen he is the being addressed in this National options. Director with German ProfEC, he Energy Policy,” he said. OAS Energy “In this particular case, our is sub contracted by us and we Specialists meet with NIA; discuss formulation of National Energy Policy

CHARLESTOWN NEVIS Natural Disaster Risk Reduction (MARCH 25, 2010) — A two Division Mr. Kevin de Cuba told member delegation from the the Department of Information that Organisation of American States the OAS project formed part of a (OAS) Department of Sustainable wider regional venture which was Development visited Nevis on managed by the OAS but funded Tuesday to hold discussions with by the European Commission. (l-R) Managing Director of German Professional Energy and the Nevis Island Administration “Basically we have all reached Environmental Consultancy (German ProfEC) Mr. Andreas and other stakeholders of the out to each other to work together Jansen and Energy Specialist, Sustainable Energy, Climate formulation of a National Energy and covering most of the regional Policy. island states in addressing Change and Natural Disaster Risk Reduction Division in the Energy Specialist, Sustainable national energy policy OAS Department of Sustainable Development Mr. Kevin de Energy, Climate Change and development,” he said. Cuba 6 - ADVERTISEMENT - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 7 “The Wind of Change” is blowing Senior Minister against PAM By: The Thinking Citizen Participated In Ministerial

Mr. Earle Clarke is writing in the Spokesman newspaper, a series of sleeve. The leaders figured that the Meetings In Suriname articles on the topic “Why the People’s Action Movement (PAM) did more cases the party won in the Dr the Hon Timothy not win the 2010 Elections”. The topic is a very interesting one and I High Court and the more Harris, Senior Minister and wish to add my two cents worth to the historical analysis that Earle Injunctions the party secured, the Minister of Agriculture and Clarke has laid out. higher would be the party’s Marine Resources To begin with, I must say that the Labour Party is a populist party popularity rating among the participated in a series of and as such receives the loyalty, allegiance, support and backing of the members of the electorate. meetings in Paramaribo, vast majority of the electorate. The PAM party is an elitist party and as Certain pre-election statements Suriname. such, commands the support, loyalty and allegiance of a relatively smaller made by the allies of PAM Dr Harris participated in section of the electorate. This means that the PAM party is always at a convinced Lindsay Grant and his the 33rd Special Meeting of disadvantage when facing the polls on Election Day. colleagues that the Labour Party the Council for Trade and Another great disadvantage for PAM is that the party has been was indeed an easy push-over; Economic Development conducting its electoral campaigns in accordance with a strategy that that the party’s hegemony had (COTED) (Agriculture), the the Fisheries Ministers with an the party developed at its formation in 1965. So PAM is still using an come to an end. The statements inauguration of the overview of the situation in outmoded and obsolete 20th century political strategy in the 21st Century. spoke of “A Wind of Change” Caribbean Agriculture Health and fisheries and aquaculture in the That strategy, which is in two parts, consists of defaming the leaders blowing through the Region and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA), region. Ministers will consider the of the Labour Party, from Bradshaw to Denzil Douglas, and, secondly, of an “Incumbency Factor” which Ministerial Meeting of the CFRM’s draft annual work plan, challenging everything that the Labour Party does or proposes and was working mightily against the Caribbean Regional Fisheries budget and the status of contracts contending that it is wrong, inadequate or untimely. ruling Labour Party. Mechanism (CRFM) and the 24th of its principal officers and receive In opposition, PAM portrays itself as the party with all the right The statements publicised by Meeting of the Board of Governors an update on a Common Fisheries answers. But in government, PAM reveals itself as inept, lackadaisical, the allies of PAM gave the of CARDI. Policy for the Caribbean confused and self-centred. impression that there was nothing The Special COTED Community among other agenda The leaders of PAM made another serious mistake when they tried in that the Labour Party could do to strategized on CARICOM’s items. various ways to mess-up obstruct and disrupt the smooth path to the prevent a massive defeat at the participation in the FAO Regional The meeting of CARDI’s Elections planned for 2009, after such leaders declined the Prime polls on Election Day. All that PAM Conference for Latin America and Board of Governors will consider Minister’s good-faith invitation to participate in the process of Electoral had to do, basically, was just mark the Caribbean slated for Panama. the financial status of CARDI, its Reform. The leaders of PAM declared that they had no interest in time and wait. But that was the The Caribbean Regional work programme and Budget for becoming involved in the proces of Electoral Reform. wrong strategy. PAM became Fisheries Mechanism will present 2010. The electorate expected that after PAM had served notice that it had over-confident and made a number no interest in Electoral Reform that the party would have refrained from of crucial mistakes. interfering with the process and would have left alone, the others During the period leading up involved, to carry out and complete the process. to the January 25 General understand that the existing social, PAM is too hungry for power. Instead, PAM used all the political, legal and diplomatic means Elections, PAM embarked upon an political, economic and industrial PAM is anxious to get back in available to delay and obstruct the planned course to General Elections unprecedented programme of milieu is different from what it was power even before the electorate and the completion of Electoral Reform. Douglas-bashing. back in the 1960 when PAM was is ready and willing to put PAM PAM made another serious mistake by blaming our Prime Minister The PAMites thought that the formed. It is much more difficult back in power. Dr. Denzil Douglas for the collapse of British American Insurance “Wind of Change” was blowing in now to convince the public with PAM is anxious to get back in Company. The leaders of PAM claim that our Prime Minister took one or their favour and that bashing Dr. shallow, specious and prejudiced power to be able to grab the two flights on an aircraft with a Mr. Dupers; a senior official in British Douglas, every morning, noon and arguments; available Sugar Estates lands for American and those flights caused the collapse of British American. night would only make the “Wind (b) Senseless criticism and its grumps as happened when The issue of Dual Citizenship, made out the PAM party and three of of Change” blow Dr. Douglas out condemnation of a ruling party’s PAM attained power in 1980. PAM its leaders, to be less than honest, forthright and trustworthy. To this of office. programmes and policies is foolish must learn to wait as Dr. Douglas very day, the majority of people in our population do not believe that the It turned out however that the and futile unless there is learnt to wait in the period before Hon. Shawn Richards and Mr. Lindsay Grant have legally and lawfully “Wind of Change” was blowing something perceptibly better 1995. completed the requirements for the renunciation of their U.S. Citizenship. against PAM and its political being offered. PAM opposes just Dr. Douglas was guided by the On one occasion Mr. Lindsay Grant pledged publicly that he and the candidates and that the constant for the sake of opposition, whether following text from the prophet other leaders in PAM would make a public disclosure of their total bashing of Dr. Douglas only made or not it makes sense; Isaiah – But they that wait upon personal financial assets. Mr. Grant published a statement of his assets things worse for them. (c) Indiscriminate bashing of the Lord shall renew their that was bogus, false, inaccurate and deliberately misleading. So far no In conclusion, I must say that the great leader of a great party is strength; they shall mount up with other leader in PAM has published a statement, whether true or false, of generally speaking, PAM failed to counterproductive. It only causes wings as eagles; they shall run and his personal financial assets. win the January 25, 2010 Elections the members of the great party to not be weary; and they shall walk, The leaders of the PAM party played their legal challenges in the because – close ranks and rally around the and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31). High Court as their party’s trump card or the ace which they had up their (a) The party fails to great leader to defend him. 8 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 REFLECTIONS Reflections on COURAGE and how Applied in Practical Life 1. The sign of courage is never to be defeated. During difficult situations if I have waste thoughts, words or actions, it means that I am being defeated. When my thoughts, words and actions are made powerful with courage in all situations, I will never be defeated. Difficult situations will come but I will never lose my courage. Application: Whatever happens, I need to take care never to ask what will happen or how it will happen. These are waste thoughts which will never allow me to find solutions. Instead of having such thoughts, I need to just remind myself that I am a courageous person and with that faith try to find the best solution for the problem in hand.

2. With every step that is taken with courage, a thousand fold help is received from God. I will not be able to achieve big things, if I am unable to take my first step due to fear. My first step of courage makes it possible to achieve success in a task, which appears impossible to begin with. I receive maximum help from God. He does not do my work but He does the work of giving me help. Application: When I start with something new, I need to surrender it to God, not just as a ritual, but with firm faith in my mind that I will receive His help. When I have this faith, help will surely come. I will either find situations changing or people becoming more cooperative.

3. Success is achieved when courage is combined with understanding. Instead of blindly taking risks thinking it is courage, when I do anything with knowledge and understanding I receive success. Knowledge gives me the ability to discriminate, enabling me to try out something new, yet not taking unwanted risks. Application: Before I start off with something new, I need to consider carefully if what I am doing is right. I need to think carefully about the consequences of the action too. When I pay attention in this way, I will take unwanted risks, but I will continue to maintain my courage. The Meditation Centre, Tel. 466 2550, 661 0933

“When men talk about sex” Poinciana Theatre Productions, the well known drama group from St.Kitts will present an original new play titled “When Men Talk About Sex” at the Nevis Cultural Centre at 7:30pm on Saturday March 27th, 2010. The group which started in 1999 as a drama club at the former Basseterre Junior High School, is now made up of former students of the Washington High School, bankers, accountants, teachers, college students, engineers and members of the St.Kitts/Nevis Defence Force. The play, written and directed by St.Kitts’ well known teacher, poet and playwright Loughlin Tatem, presents issues and opinions surrounding human sexuality in its various forms. It addresses the way men think about women in relation to sex and also examines many of the moral issues that we as a small society have to struggle with. But the humour and levity cleverly woven into the action provokes a great deal of laughter from the audience. This rib tickling comedy had its premiere in St.Kitts at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Auditorium on December 13th 2009 before a highly appreciative audience and will have a repeat performance in St.Kitts in April, 2010. The Director, Loughlin Tatem is also the author of the novel “A Tempting To Confess” which was published by Inkwater Press in 2005. They are now publishing his second book titled “These Islands Are Staggering” which addresses many of the social issues of the Caribbean region. Poinciana Productions also does street theatre performances in St.Kitts. An upcoming street performance is entitled BLOOD IN THE STREET and they are presently working in collaboration with the St.Kitts/ Nevis Police Force to present a full length play entitled DEPORTEE which looks at the deportation of nationals caught up in illegal activities in the U.S.A The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 9 Justice in St. Kitts and Nevis to be Attorney General operated in a much more efficient manner. makes historic visit to “In discussing with Her Ladyship this morning, I indicated to here that the government of St. Nevis Judiciary Kitts and Nevis continues to CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (MARCH 18, 2010) — Attorney General recognise the importance of the and Minister of Legal Affairs and Justice Hon. Patrice Nisbett paid Separation of Powers Doctrine and courtesy calls on Resident High Court Judge on Nevis, Her Ianthea we have always operated with a Leigertwood-Octave and Magistrate of the Charlestown Magistrate’s sense of cordiality cooperation Court, Ladyship District “C” Yasmin Clarke on Thursday, in what he between the Executive and the described as a historic visit to discuss matters of mutual interest and Judiciary. In order for the system concern. to operate effectively, there must Mr. Nisbett accompanied by his Permanent Secretary Mrs. Ryllis be mutual respect. Vasquez, told the Department of Information he thought it prudent in his “We also discussed the court facilities here at Charlestown [and] new capacity, to visit the judiciary. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs and Justice Hon. the High Court. She raised some “The visit today is a visit that I understand is a historic visit. It is the Patrice Nisbett (centre) meets with Assistant Registrar Ms. Janine concerns about the existing first time that the Attorney general is making a courtesy call here on the Harris (left) and Court Administrator Mrs. Mova Daniel Judiciary here on Nevis and the staff of the Registry. facilities and one of the important “What we plan to do is to make this an annual visit so that one can concerns she raised was the issue sit with whoever is the Judge at the time and the Registry and we can be of space and how one can improve able to hear what the concerns and issues are and how they can be the space situation so that the addressed in a timely and effective manner,” he said. staff of the court can function in a At the end of his meeting with the Judge he said she had asked for more efficient and effective certain matters to be addressed which would allow the administration of manner,” he said. The Attorney General said he was aware that the system was delay prone and the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Justice would endeavour to do whatever was necessary to ensure an efficient judicial system. With regard to the prospects of a new High Court, Mr. Nisbett said there were plans for the establishment of a new Hall of Justice in Nevis. “As a matter of fact there is a project and I know there are a number of persons here in Nevis who presently sit on a committee. Resident High Court Judge on Nevis Her Worship Ianthea I think that they are in the process (l-R) Permanent Secretary to the Attorney General and Ministry of Leigertwood-Octave (left) welcomes Attorney General and Minister of evaluating the project and doing Legal Affairs and Justice Mrs. Ryllis Vasquez with Attorney General of Legal Affairs and Justice Hon. Patrice Nisbett to her chambers in the various assessments. Maybe Hon. Patrice Nisbett outside the High Court in Charlestown Charlestown someday we will be able to make some announcement to the general they had arrived at an interim public as to this project. solution. “I know the Cabinet of the “What we have basically Nevis Island Administration has agreed is that there must be some been briefed on the project and I level of consolidation with regards know there are critical issues to be to library resources and we must ironed out, as to the issue of use the technology that is possible location of this Hall of available in order to ensure that Justice,” he said, and noted that one has access to the necessary there was a similar committee in St. material. So we will be using the Kitts charged with looking into a electronic side of things in order Hall of Justice for Basseterre to deal with the establishment of On the issue of the provision the library facilities. of a law library which had been “We also believe that with the nonexistent in the Nevis Halls of Justice project, there will Jurisdiction, the Attorney General be adequate space made available said it was a matter discussed at for the site of a possible law library the meeting with the Judge and but in the meantime, the Legal Department here in Nevis, will continue to ensure that material is available. Each year they will continue to update the material that they have, to ensure that there is some level of law library facility here in Nevis so that the legal fraternity can have access to that,” he said. His call on Magistrate Clarke addressed issues and concerns that were relevant to the operation of the Magistracy in Nevis.

In One radio 1 InTunedWith 94.1FM 10 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 Government? Why are they “Massive Fraudsters” in the NGO unwelcome? As far as I see it for the purposes of the Nevis Island Coalition; and say Nevisians in Administration Elections, St. Kitts is “overseas”. Why try to St. Kitts can’t vote in Nevis? criminalise a fellow Nevisian who now lives in St. Kitts and wishes By: Sotto Voce What a contrast that tale makes to vote in that Election? All, in my to the reports of the foreign view, who belong there can The St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF) is a proud and highly organisations that covered the register there and vote there. The respected organisation through which many of our sons and daughters same Elections and were high in Nevis Elections and the St. Kitts- have passed and served during the length and breadth of its history. their praise for the work done by Nevis Elections are very separate In more recent years it has earned the praises of many locals because our SKNDF on Election Day. and different. Different of its fearlessness in dealing with some criminal elements in our society. What a shameful pack of NGO Parliaments, different In fact, the popular view is that the violent, gun-toting criminals do not jokers who allowed themselves to Administrations, different fear the police even nearly as much as they fear the Defence Force. So be used by PAM and now suffer Constituencies, a different whereas fighting crime is the province of the police, our citizens take tarnished reputations. I’ll leave electorate. comfort in the fact that policemen have the full backing and support of that issue for now. There are Kittitians and our Defence Force. So if the Police Force is under-strength to any extent, Check this out. We need to Nevisians who vote here at home our SKNDF makes up the difference by their support and their members. decide in this country if Nevisians and who also vote in America or in The leaders of the PAM, however, from the very formation of that living in St. Kitts have the right to England or in Canada, for example. Party, have always been hostile to the SKNDF. PAM was formed in 1965, participate in the Nevis Island Being able to vote here does not contested its first General Elections in 1966, and suffered a heavy defeat Administration Elections. As far as make them ineligible to vote I am aware that local election for by Labour then. Just one year later (1967) we had the attempt by PAM elsewhere. The Sheriff somehow seems mortally afraid of his fellow Nevisians and residents of Nevis and some Anguillans to overthrow the popular Bradshaw Labour Nevisians now resident in St. Kitts. I wonder why? decides on the complexion of the Government and to impose a PAM leader as the new Premier. In fact, The new PAM Senator seems to have friends on his FM who enjoy government of Nevis. Not St. Kitts. their Party mouthpiece, the Democrat newspaper, headlined the would- broadcasting the nonsense he says from time to time. He said that PAM It is a totally different Election be accession of a PAM leader to be Premier, as “Freedom Day”. PAM clearly won the 2010 Elections and he supported challenges being made to the St. Kitts-Nevis General and the Democrat knew something that the Kittitian electorate did not by court action in all 6 Constituencies Labour won. He is swiftly being Elections which decides the know. renamed as Juicy “Massive Fraud” Byron. Everyone knows he was his complexion of the government of The attempt to overthrow the lawfully-elected government here was leader’s personal selection over the PAM women who were popularly St. Kitts, also conveniently thwarted by the vigilance of members of the SKNDF, among other factors. predicted to gain the nomination to Parliament. Kittitians are saying how referred to as Federal Elections, or From then on, the SKNDF has not been a favourite organisation for the he wanted to go to court and seek an injunction to stop the Budget. We St. Kitts-Nevis Elections, because PAM. When PAM got an opportunity in 1980 to form the government, shall see how the PAM/CCM Coalition in Opposition actually works, led there are 3 seats/constituencies in one of its first acts was to disband the permanent arm of the SKNDF. by the Sheriff. Nevis, returning members to the The reserves remained. And PAM appointed one of its members, a I hope the washed-up fellow who still campaigns for the January St. Kitts Parliament. PAM set it up Flemming from Anguilla who was a local businessman, as a Lieutenant 2010 Elections for PAM over WINN FM several days per week is being so in 1983. in the SKNDF reserves. The permanent members of the SKNDF now “highly rewarded”. The PAM March for democracy” being publicised The Nevis Island disbanded, would be made police officers or they could retire/resign. on their FM is tomorrow for true? They say he wants Grant and Blanchette Administration comes about from The SKNDF’s permanent arm was again revived when the Labour Party in particular in Parliament. He and Juicy signing a duet: “Massive Fraud”. a different election and 5 different was returned to office in 1995. Poor fellows – they can’t sing, and their tune ain’t sweet. Nobody in constituencies, to form a different It’s an open secret that PAM frowns on the SKNDF. Sad to say, there their band; hope they get the message. are elements in our local Police Force who have allowed their loyalty to government in a different island to the government of the day and the country to be compromised by their St. Kitts. affiliation to and support of the PAM. Our electoral system in St. At each General Election since 1995, PAM gets its mercenary elements Kitts and in Nevis provides for SO TELL ME on the streets and on talk shows to peddle false tales of SKNDF Officers overseas voting by citizens and By: Jean Thomas allegedly changing over real ballot-boxes for fake ones in the journey residents who no longer reside on from the polling-stations to the central counting Police Station in every the island giving the vote. Thanks constituency; anything to blacken the names and reputations of the to schemes and machinations of From ever since loyal members of our revered SKNDF. the PAM (when in government) by In the 1980’s I had a daughter at school who took part in the track Leading up to our last elections, everyone knew before hand that the introduction of continuous and field games at the Basseterre High School. Like many parents I PAM planned for trouble in Constituency 4. They had circulated text registration and its consequences, supported her pursuits. So on sports day I would find myself at the messages to voters and made open statements at meetings and in the our voters lists will forever be Basseterre High School cheering her on in her endeavours. Democrat that some registered voters of PAM’s choosing would loaded with names of voters not From since that time although I no longer have a child or grandchild physically be prevented from voting on Election Day. The security forces living on island or in the particular at school and taking part in these activities, I find myself attending the were forewarned that they should be on the alert. How could any Election Constituency where registered. So sports day functions. In 2004 I also had the distinct privilege of attending Day be the time to decide the eligibility of any voter to vote in any the alarmist, hypocritical noises the Olympic Games in Athens and that too was a wonderful experience. Constituency? made by PAM and its associates It appears that I have a weakness for the track and field events and I All registered voters must be protected as they exercised their about “massive fraud” and the like cannot stay away, when these events are taking place. Therefore, it was franchise. Objection time was long past. PAM was playing a very is really comical. PAM created the not unlike me to attend the games at the Silver Jubilee Stadium, when the dangerous game. Talk is that the PAM candidate was prepared for problem issue, and the same PAM CARIFTA games were hosted by this country. I was drawn to and possible violence as his supporters physically challenged voters. They now complaining about its own enjoyed witnessing the skills and talents of our young people from the say he moved about with armed security personnel and wore a bullet- creation. Region. At those events Jamaica dominated nearly every event. proof vest. However, the presence of the SKNDF again was instrumental So at Nevis Island Assembly Last weekend saw the culmination of the best from the various High in keeping the peace and preventing violence (sponsored by PAM). Elections, Nevisians return home Schools and the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College in St Kitts and Nevis The PAM-sympathetic NGO Coalition had to get its loyalty right and from the USA, from England from competing for supremacy in the various events. I was indeed pleased to reported falsely on the involvement of the SKNDF. This NGO farce of a the British and Virgin Islands, from see so many parents, teachers, children and their friends, and people report is seen by all for what is: Just PAM propaganda to destroy the other nations in the Caribbean, just like me who enjoy looking at the track and field events at the Silver good reputation of the SKNDF; but PAM and its NGO Coalition really and from all over the world to Jubilee Stadium cheering on the athletes. barking up the wrong tree. Kittitians respect the right of the SKNDF and exercise their franchise in the land As most of you already know, Sandy Point High School emerged the its members to a good reputation. of their birth without let or overall winner. There is only one small regret that I have - and that is, I Commander Wallace and the men and women under his command hindrance by NRP or CCM from wished that we had such a beautiful facility in the 1980’s when my can rest assured that the SKNDF is still very highly loved and respected after 1983. daughter and many others took part. Although I can no longer skip, by our people. If the PAM-based NGO Coalition really wants the matter The only Nevisians who are jump or run, (smile) I can appreciate the youths when they endeavour to to go to rest as is claimed, the only way is the total and unreserved seemingly frowned upon in do well and shine on sports day. retraction of the falsehoods published in its report. This has highly returning home to vote ane those Thanks to the Government of the Labour Party, athletes and offended and surprised the fair-minded and decent citizens of our country. residents in St. Kitts – Why? Are spectators alike we had a wonderful weekend at the Silver Jubilee Stadium. It is the same PAM-influenced NGO Coalition that has lost all they a different brand of Nevisian Thanks too, to all who took part in one way or another for a job well credibility in the eyes of our citizens. Naturally, the diehard PAMites to the rest? Why do some people done. So tell me, are you looking forward to more functions at the continue to peddle the tall tales it compelled its churchman to put in the show them such hostility if they Stadium? I am sure that like me you are and cannot wait for the next NGO Report. desire to help to choose a Nevis event(s). The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 11 PM Douglas speaks to importance Government Joins of food security and UNESCO In Celebrating empowerment of local farmers “Clean Water” Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 23, 2010 (SKNIS): The government of St. Kitts and Nevis has joined with UNESCO and other nations around the word in acknowledging the importance of clean water. The St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission, through its organ, Small Islands Voice, coordinated a World Water Day Seminar at the Ocean Terrace Inn today, March 22. Under the theme: “Clean Water for a Healthy World,” the various stakeholders, including teachers, students, environmentalists and persons employed in the water sector, all agreed that water was crucial for health and development. St. Kitts and Nevis UNESCO National Commission Secretary General Antonio Maynard read the UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova’s message, which stated the depressing statistics that two and an half billion people continue to live without proper sanitation and that 884 million have no access to safe drinking water. “Water-related sickness and the additional financial hardship it brings, lowers the odds that a poor family will educate its children.” The UNESCO Director General’s Message continued. “This, in turn, robs the next generation of the opportunity to improve their own circumstances and break the cycle of poverty and deprivation trapping them. Clean water PM Douglas in Parliament and proper sanitation are where it all starts.” (Labour Secretariat):The St.Kitts/Nevis Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Denzil L. Mr. Oaklyn Peets, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Douglas said his Government continues to work assiduously towards the achievement of food security and Works and Utilities, emphasized that water is linked to our social, increased export capability as highlighted in the Agriculture Development Strategy. economic and political development. He made the disclosure while delivering the 2010 Budget address on Tuesday morning in the National “The Ministry of Health has recently acknowledged that here in St. Assembly at Government Headquarters. Kitts we have seen a marked decline in the levels of gastroenteritis and “The concern surrounding rising food prices on the world market and the issue of food scarcity, which related diseases,” Permanent Secretary Peets said. “[This has been] threatens the tenuous position of the world’s poorest citizens, makes it imperative that we continue to invest directly attributed to advancements in the delivery of safe potable water in the Agriculture Sector in order to ensure that the citizens of this country enjoy a sustainable food supply. to the general public.” We are fully aware that our accomplishments thus far could not have been achieved without the support of Mr. Peets informed that in order to have the present success rate in several regional and international agencies,” he said. safe water and efficient supply, a significant investment had to be made Moreover, the Finance Minister outlined that his administration continues to invest heavily in the sector to the local Water Services infrastructure. He said that during the late to empower our local farmers. 1990s an EC$18 million loan from the Kuwati Fund for Economic According to Dr. Douglas “Over the past year we approved 1,470 acres of land for farming and made (cont’d on page17 ) certain that the tenancy of farmers occupying lands without formal agreement was regularized so that they can reap the benefits of the various assistance programmes being offered by the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, this Government has commissioned another 170 acres of land encompassing twenty (20) sugarcane fields in the Wingfield Estate (Old Road), Whites (Cayon) and Sir Gilles (Sandy Point) areas to further assist local farmers.” The Finance Minister was pleased that in connection with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) funded initiative to provide inputs to vulnerable small farmers 1,124 farmers have received assistance. Dr.Douglas touched on the collaborative effort between the Ministry responsible for Agriculture, Agricultural Resource Management Project (ARMP), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation and Agriculture (IICA) and the Republic of China on Taiwan (ROC) which has enabled his Government to move forward with the commercialization of crop production through the development of a commercial farm in St. Peter’s parish named the Ogees Farmer Group Settlement Project. He said the fourteen (14) acre, fully equipped farm will be managed by seven former sugar workers under the guidance of the Department of Agriculture. “This Farm Project will be duplicated in the foothills of the Verchilds Mountain by a group of ambitious youths from Old Road. To complement the commercialization of the Agriculture Sector we continue to foster the linkages between Agriculture and Tourism,” he remarked. PM Douglas stated that his Government has applied equal attention to the improvement of animal husbandry practices and that as a result, livestock production increased by 14.1% during the period January From Left – UNESCO National Commission Secretary General to September 2009 when compared to the same period in 2008. Antonio Maynard, Minister of Education Honourable Nigel Carty He outlined: “ We have done considerable work in the development of the Fishing Industry which has and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works and led to significant expansion in the sub-sector. Total fish landings in 2008 increased by 20.4% to 832,050 lbs, Utilities Mr. Oaklyn Peets with a total value of EC$7.4 million. This considerable growth was influenced by the introduction of new fishers, increases in the average fishing time and catch of fish, and favourable weather conditions which persisted throughout the year. Preliminary reports have indicated that fish sales at the fishing complexes between January and October 2009 have totalled $469,625.” Upon highlighting the vision of his Government to modernize the Fishing Industry , he explained that such measure includes efforts to move away from primarily artisan fishing to a commercialized approach. “In our efforts to effect this change, we commissioned the construction of a 40 ft multipurpose fishing vessel in 2008. This vessel, constructed by our very own Indigo Yachts, has now been completed and was launched in June 2009. The vessel will be leased to individuals or groups who are skilled in manoeuvring a boat of that size. This Government endeavours to commission the construction of the second boat in 2010,” the Finance Minister said. Dr. Douglas continued: “In order to aid in the further advancement of the fishing industry we have begun to strengthen our partnerships with other stakeholders in the industry. Presently, the Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with Ross University of Veterinary Medicine, is investigating ways to advance the development of an Aquaculture Industry. The Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also provided valuable assistance in the form of training in the area of Product Development. In addition, the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Cooperatives have been working assiduously towards the formal establishment of a national Fisher-Folk Association which will assist in the development of skills and knowledge and a unified approach to problem resolution.” Cross-section of Water Day Seminar Participants 12 - ADVERTISEMENT - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 13 Primary school students sit in on National Assembly

Students of the Irish Town Primary School with Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Curtis Martin; Central Basseterre Parliamentary Representative, Hon. Marcella Liburd and Teacher Grade Four students of the Irish Town Primary School seated in the gallery of the St. Kitts and Nevis Mrs. Cleo Cogger. National assembly (photos by Erasmus Williams) He further noted that the Coggers. Hon Marcella Liburd also greeted BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, MARCH 24TH 2010 (CUOPM) – Eighteen students are required to observe Each student and the teacher and took a photograph with the students and a teacher from the Irish Town Primary School in Basseterre the proceedings of the National were personally greeted by the students on the steps of were welcomed Wednesday to the gallery of the National Assembly Assembly as part of their studies Speaker on his arrival at Government Headquarters. Chambers. on the topic of “Government.” Government Headquarters. The session was the first day Speaker of the lawmaking body, Hon. Curtis Martin, in welcoming “Students should also be able Parliamentary Representative for of the debate following the the Grade Four students and their teacher, Mrs. Cleo Cogger, noted that to identify the Speaker of the Central Basseterre Hon. Marcella presentation of the 2010 Budget he is a former student of the Irish Town Primary School. House and its members,” said Liburd (St. Christopher 2 – Labour) Address.

“You’re the Only Woman” and The Blue Martini Piano Lounge “Holdin’ on to Yesterday” have earned the band five Grammy welcomes international hitmakers nominations, continual radio airplay, and multi-platinum status. Ambrosia and Little River Band During that time the group also scored a top 40 hit with a cover of for a unique performance the Beatles classic “Magical Mystery Tour”, from the motion March 27th picture “All this and WW11”. In 1997, Warner Bros. released Collective sales of both bands surpass 40 Ambrosia’s long awaited gold million records, multiple Grammy nods Anthology CD, an incredible The Blue Martini Piano Lounge located inside the Marriott Resort album that spans the group’s welcomes Ambrosia and Wayne Nelson, lead vocalist from the Little entire career. In 1999, VH-1 River Band, for a special performance this Saturday night. Don’t miss featured them on their highly your chance to see these two performers, whose songs are etched in the acclaimed “Where Are They minds of listeners around the world from their deep catalog of hit records. Now?” series, which prompted a huge surge of new interest in the The buzz surrounding Ambrosia isn’t surprising given the heights Little River Band Photo: the band scaled during the 70’s and early 80’s. Top 10 hits such as band, and led to several more Mind”, “Take it Easy on Me”, and “Biggest Part of Me”, “How Much I Feel”, “Nice, Nice, Very Nice”, television appearances including greater success was in America, the #1 “The Night Owls”. a spotlight on TNN’S “Classic with the single “Reminiscing” Little River Band released a Rock” special, which tuned in over hitting #1 and also becoming a #1 Multi-Platinum Greatest Hits 5 million viewers. hit around the world. A second album in 1985 and the first single, The Little River Band was the top 3 hit from that album, “Lady”, “The Other Guy”, instantly went first Australian band who cemented their hit-making, top 10 around the world, and #1 in successfully conquered the world superstar status. Together, these many countries, followed by the music charts from its base in two songs have logged more than top 20 song, “Down on the Australia. Formed in 1975, they 8 million plays on U.S. radio since Border”. The next studio album, started charting albums and songs they were recorded and have “The Net” yielded two more top on every continent and quickly earned LRB numerous airplay 20 hits, “You’re Driving Me Out of became one of the top selling awards around the world. A third My Mind”, and “We Two”, and artists in music history, topping the top 20 hit, “Happy Anniversary the follow-up album, “Playing to 30 million mark in worldwide album Baby”, also charted. Win”, yielded the top 40 title track. sales and over 20 top 40 hits. For the next four years, LRB The people of St. Kitts have a In 1977, their breakthrough hit, kept straddling multiple continents unique opportunity to see both of “Help Is on Its Way,” went all the as their success grew and the these bands up close and personal way to #1. The album it came from, string of hits kept pouring out from for one night- this Saturday March “Diamantina Cocktail”, went gold each successive Platinum album. 27th only! This event is co- in America and around the globe, “First Under the Wire”, their fifth sponsored by PAWS and a portion the first time an Australian act had album, yielded the top 10 hits, of the door will go to this achieved such a feat. It was “Lonesome Loser”, and “Cool worthwhile charity. Doors open followed by “Sleeper Catcher”, and Change”. Their next- and biggest at 8, show starts at 10:00. Don’t became the first album recorded in selling studio album to date- miss you chance to be a part of Australia to sell over a million “Time Exposure” yielded three this special event. Tickets are only copies in the U.S. This time, LRB’s more top 10 hits in “Man on Your $35 and include an open bar. 14 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 home,” said one striking cabin crew BA’s flight to St. Kitts member with 20 years experience. “The media is portraying us as BHS Teen Challenge operated as scheduled spoilt rotten, overpaid waitresses.” Club aids fire victims Addressing a lively rally of The Basseterre High School Teen Challenge Club, an inter- on Saturday union members at a sports ground denominational Christian organisation, will next Saturday, 27th BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS MARCH 22ND 2010 – British close to London’s Heathrow Airport, Unite joint general March, stage a concert entitled “Look again, Lord” at the Airways flight into St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International school’s auditorium at 7:30 in the evening. The concert will Airport on Saturday March 20th operated as scheduled. secretary Tony Woodley accused BA management of an attempt to feature song, dance, poetry and drama performed by students Police Inspector in the Immigration Department, Ms. Elrethea destroy union influence. within the group as well as by several guest artistes. Richardson said Monday British Airways arrived on Saturday on “This dispute is costing this The highlight of the evening will be a skit entitled “Look time with 134 passengers. company an arm and a leg. We can again, Lord” written by Bishop Ron Collins, a former president She said 100 passengers were onboard when it departed for the V.C. reach a negotiated settlement. of the Teen Challenge Club. Bird International Airport in Antigua enroute to London-Gatwick. Come back to the table,” he urged The proceeds from the concert will go towards assisting British Airways is expected to introduce a second weekly flight into BA, as union members around him two students of the BHS who lost all their possessions in a fire St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport on March 30 and this banged drums and blew whistles, flight is not expected to be affected by industrial action. brandishing cardboard cut outs of earlier in the year. In London, the BBC reported that striking British Airways cabin BA Chief Executive Willie Walsh The group, whose motto is “Winning Basseterre High School crew offered on Monday to resume talks with the company to try to with demon red eyes for Christ” has been in existence since 1974. settle a dispute. BA said the impact of the strike Cabin crew were due to return to work on Tuesday after a three-day had been limited and that there Vinette Halliday stoppage that has disrupted flights from London’s main Heathrow airport. was no estimate yet as to how Teacher / Coordinator Unions plan a second, four-day stoppage from next Saturday, much it would cost the company. grounding flights before the busy Easter holiday period, in a dispute “Over the weekend more than that centres on cost-cutting plans and staffing levels. 75 per cent of our flights around “They want me to work for less than half I’m earning now. I’d lose my the world departed punctually, with several hundred departing The St. Kitts Bottling Company early,” it said in a statement. Share market reaction was Celebrates 56 years muted, BA shares shedding less Buckley’s Site, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Mar. 22, 2010 - The St. than one percent in a lower market. Kitts Bottling Company Ltd., the nation’s leading and longest The dispute arose because BA, which has 12,000 cabin crew, standing manufacturer is proud to announce their 56th year in wants to save an annual 62.5 business. million pounds ($95 million) to help The Company began its operations on March 22nd, 1954, and cope with a fall in demand, volatile today holds the distinction of being the longest standing fuel prices and increased manufacturer in the nation. Over the last 56 years the company British Airways aircraft on the ground at the Robert L. Bradshaw competition from low-cost carriers. has withstood many challenges and seen tremendous growth. International Airport on Saturday 20th March 2010 (photo by The company has leased The company will continue to make the necessary investment Erasmus Williams) planes and in capital that will help to maintain the high quality standards that crew from exist across all our product lines. Not only are these investments budget airline important, but our role as a responsible corporate citizen will Ryanair) to continue with commitments to sports and community development. help keep passengers on We understand that our growth over these last 56 years would the move. not be possible without the continued patronage of all our customers, and we look forward to bringing you the same high quality service over the next 56 years. Celebrating Francophone air movie (in collaboration with the week Spanish Agency for Cooperation Today, 180 million people speak AECID / Clarence Fitzroy Bryant French around the world and 82 million College). Free Admission. use it from time to time. 63 States and We will be hosting a ‘Quiz and Governments are spread out in five Dictée’ on Wednesday 24th March continents, different civilizations with a 2010, 6:30pm and will also present lot of contrast but always respectful to diplomas to students who passed the each other’s level of development. French exams (Delf and Dalf). The end of March became a very Students from all secondary schools symbolic period of the year where are invited to participate in the ‘French several institutions bring the World Wide Song Competition’ which will take place French Speaking Family of Nations on Thursday 25th March 2010, 6:30pm Together. at Alliance Française. The rules of the To celebrate this Francophone competition can be obtained from the week, we are inviting students from all Principals/French teachers at the secondary schools to our ‘Open Door schools. Week’, from Tuesday 23rd March to Winners of all competition will be Thursday 25th March 2010, from 9:00am awarded. to 12:00 noon where we will show Membership of the Alliance has French movies with English subtitles. On many benefits and is open to the general Wednesday 24th March 2010 at 7:30pm, public for an annual subscription fee of we will host Open Air Movie Night at EC$50.00 and EC$75.00. We invite you Frigate Bay Resort. On Thursday 25th to join and support us. March 2010, 8:00pm at Sprat Net, open The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - VIEW POINT - 15 these two stanzas when in future (Alpha and Omega), whose spirit respond to this invitation from God we sing them. shall guide us safely home. We’ll through the Psalmist “O taste and VIEW POINT How good is the God we adore, praise Him for all that is past, and see that the Lord is good; blessed our faithful, unchangeable Friend, trust Him for all that’s to come. is the man or woman that trusteth BY whose love is as great as His If there is one reader in this in Him” (Ps. 34:8). V. E. INNISS power and knows neither measure audience and all that we have been Indeed, God is good, all the nor end. discussing about the “goodness time. I invite you to prove it. May ‘Tis Jesus the First and the Last of God” is like Greek to you God help us to substantiate it! GodGod isis goodgood ...... AllAll thethe timetime Development Bank boosting Before we get into the heart of our Ester studies, let us spend this “warm up” session reflecting on the goodness of God. economy by supporting small How many times have we heard the refrain “God is Good, All the Time? I trust that to those who chant it the loudest and more frequent, it businesses has become to them, a gag line or catch phrase. It is the embodiment of Charlestown Nevis (March 24, a storehouse of truth and blessings. 2010) — Nevisian businessman, When Christian theology says that God is good, it is not the same as Alfred Forbes, is praising the role saying that He is righteous or holy. The holiness of God is trumpeted the Development Bank of Saint from the heavens and re-echoed on earth by saints and sages wherever Kitts and Nevis is playing in God has revealed Himself to men. boosting the Federation’s The goodness of God is that which disposes Him to be kind, cordial, economy by supporting small benevolent and full of goodwill toward men. He is tender-hearted and of businesses. quick sympathy. And His unfailing attitude toward all moral beings is “The Development Bank plays open, frank and friendly, needless to say that by His nature He is inclined a great role as it has enabled people to bestow blessedness and He takes holy pleasure in the happiness of like myself who are from a very mankind. humble beginning to be able to That God is good is taught or implied on every page of the Holy earn a decent living,” said Forbes Bible and must be received as an article of faith as impregnable as the who operates a taxi service, throne of God. In addition, it is the foundation stone for all sound thought Senior Loans/Project Officer at the Nevis branch of the Development scooter rental and trucking about God and is necessary to moral sanity. Bank, Hyacinth Pemberton (left), shares a light moment with Pastor business out of Charlestown. If God is not good then there can be no distinction between kindness Alfred Forbes and his wife Lornette at their home in Hermitage, on “The trust the bank has for the and cruelty and heaven can be hell and hell heaven. The goodness of one of her regular visits to bank clients. small man is so great that as long God is the drive behind all the blessings He daily bestows upon us. God as one is willing to work, it will be right behind you. They are very helpful to the community and the economy created us because He felt good in His heart and He made every provision at large, and as for me, it has been a pleasure doing business with the Development Bank.” for redeeming us for the same reason. The 56-year old businessman, who is also pastor at the Prince Tabernacle of Lower Bath Village, noted that his relationship with the Development Bank started in 1991, when he was given a mortgage that saw him build DIVINE ATTRIBUTES a three bedroom house on his quarter acre plot at Hermitage. Since my reading audience has in it a wide range of persons who The mortgage was at that time for eighteen years, meaning that he paid it off last year, but what he did not look forward to my weekly articles for their spiritual edification and know was the fact that the Development Bank could allow a client to have more than one loan as long as one upliftment I crave your indulgence as I attempt to point out what the is able to service them concurrently. It was an eye opener for the businessman when that happened as he attributes of God (His Being) includes: ended up having four loans at the same time. (1) Self-existence – He has life in Himself; (2) Unity - The only God; “As Owner/Manager of my business, I have operated taxi service for over 30 years,” explained Forbes. (3) Spirituality – God is a Spirit; (4) Eternity – unlimited by time; (5) “Before I used to do regular passenger bus service from Charlestown to the Gingerland area. After that I Immutability – unchangeable in nature or purpose; (6) Omnipotence – ventured into taxi and trucking services, but it was not until 2004 when I approached the Development Bank unlimited by space; (7) Omniscience – cognizant of all things; (8) Wisdom and they gave me a loan to buy a taxi bus.” – God realizes the best designs by the best possible means; (9) Senior Loans/Project Officer at the Nevis branch of the Development Bank, Hyacinth Pemberton, observed Omnipotence – in the truest sense nothing is impossible; (10) Holiness that as long as a client has the capacity to service his/her loan, he/she could be considered for an additional – absolute moral purity; (11) Justice – demands righteousness of His loan for an additional project, or the same project as long as the project remains viable. creatures and deals righteously with them; (12) Goodness – Includes “Pastor Forbes has been a good client and his business proposals have always met out lending criteria,” benevolence, love, mercy and grace; (13) Faithfulness – absolutely trust- noted Pemberton. “When we look at a proposal, we assess the future revenue generating capacity of the worthy. project by taking into consideration the market and the general economy. It was therefore quite in order for us From the preceding we can see that the study of the attributes of to have advanced multiple loans to Pastor Forbes.” God, far from being dull and heavy may for the enlightened Christian be After he got the loan to buy a taxi bus in 2004, while he was still servicing the mortgage to the satisfaction a sweet and absorbing spiritual exercise. Inevitably this brings us to the of the bank, he got another loan in 2005 to purchase another taxi bus, a loan in 2007 to purchase a pickup truck question of the number of the divine attributes. Religious thinkers have for his trucking business and after he would have finished paying off the mortgage last year, he was given differed about this. Some have insisted that there are seven. But Faber another loan to purchase yet another taxi bus. sang of the “God of a thousand attributes to which the revered Charles Pastor Forbes, a father of five and grandfather of thirteen, explained that he previously worked at a juice Wesley exclaimed: “Glad thine attributes confess glorious all and making factory that was situated at Farms Estate in Nevis, but after its closure, he went into the regular numberless”. passenger bus business, plying between Charlestown and Gingerland. True these men were worshiping, not counting. We too might be For an island that thrives on tourism economy, Forbes has ensured that he gives the best to the visitors. wise to follow the insight of the enraptured heart rather than more cautious To supplement his taxi businesses reasoning of the theological mind. he also ventured into scooter rental service after he found out GOOD IN EVERY SENSE that a number of tourists enjoy Let us return to the goodness of God. Divine goodness as one of seeing the island on scooters. He God’s attributed is self caused, infinite, perfect and eternal. He has never bought the scooters using funds been kinder than He now is, nor will He ever be less kind. that have been generated by his He is no respecter of persons, but makes His sun to shine on the evil other businesses. as well as the good. He sends His rain on the just and on the unjust alike. Pastor Forbes who is aware The cause of His goodness is in Himself. The recipients of His that Nevis is still a popular goodness are all His beneficiaries without merit and without recompense. destination among the rich yacht Always God’s goodness is the ground of our expectation. Repentance, owners, feels that everything though necessary, is not meritorious but a condition for receiving the possible to make them want to gracious gift of pardon which God gives of His goodness. return and also encourage their Prayer is not in itself meritorious. It lays God under no obligation nor friends to visit Nevis should be put Him in debt to any of us. He hears prayers because He is good and done, especially the speeding up for no other reason. of the immigration processes. Nor is faith meritorious; it is simply confidence in the goodness of Pastor Forbes poses on his compound at Hermitage, showing some Nevis cannot do without tourism, God, and the lack of it is a reflection upon God’s holy character. of the property the Development Bank has assisted him to acquire – he said. I trust that this article will better help us to understand and appreciate the taxi bus, pickup truck and the house. 16 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 living. When we pattern our life to opportunity that I can some to the Programme salutes Have Faith God’s daily word we cannot go Federation of St Kitts Nevis, the wrong at all but live a life of victory wider Caribbean and in the Development Bank for Written by Floy Hensley in Him. international circles with this We are all faced with situations article. Father God Faith: “Faith is the Evident of and problems daily, where are we I pray that lives would be its generosity things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 turning for the answers? Who can touched and lives would be BASSETERRE ST. KITTS (March 24, 2010) — As the Youth Greetings in the wonderful and help in time like these? Jesus Christ changed for your honour and Empowerment through Skills (YES) Programme celebrates its first precious name of Jesus Christ, our is the only answer to all of our glory in the name of Jesus Christ. anniversary, secretariat manager Leslie Connor has singled out for soon coming King and Lord of problems we are facing in life and I pray that those who are commendation, the Development Bank of Saint Kitts and Nevis which Lord. This is my very first article can see us through. I do not know reading now and do not know you has hosted the programme’s secretariat at the basement floor of its in this News Paper to write about what you are facing right now but as Lord and Saviour would make Church/Central Streets building in Basseterre. the love of God and to encourage I know God would deliver you and that decision to serve you in spirit “Since the Programme was started by Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas those who are hurting and need to would make it right. Prayer is the and in truth, so you can be Lord one year ago, the Development Bank took the YES Programme in, and hear words of comfort in their answer to your problems, there is and Master over their lives. I pray even as our operations grew, you continued to provide us with the situation. This article is not a no distance in prayer when you for your continual peace, necessary office space,” said Connor. “The programme has succeeded religious one or politically touch and agree and have faith that protection, love, togetherness and in achieving its goals, and we owe this to your generosity.” motivated because my aim is to God would moved on your behalf. righteous living in our land. Connor made those remarks Wednesday morning when he paid a write words of comfort in all News Faith without work is dead and Father this is being now in your courtesy call on the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis general Papers in the Federation, if given without faith it’s impossible to honour and glory because your manager, Lenworth Harris, to invite him to attend an anniversary dinner the opportunity to do so. We serve please God. Faith is simple name would forever be praise. that will be hosted by the hotel trades students of the YES Programme at a great and powerful God and the believing and praying for Thank you for providing for your the Royal St. Kitts Hotel on Friday March 26. sky is the limit and He’s the one something you have not received people and answering their prayers The bank’s general manager, Lenworth Harris, in accepting the who would open the doors in the as yet but know that you would and making away in their invitation to attend the dinner said: “It has been our greatest pleasure to right place and at the right time. be getting it in due time. I called situations. Thank you for reading host the YES Programme and to be part of this most important programme God’s timing is not ours and His myself, “Woman of faith,” and and I know this is the beginning for the development and empowerment of our youth and we really hope ways are higher than ours because thence is the reason my article is of more exciting articles because that the relationship can continue and that we can facilitate you in any He’s a powerful and faithful God called, “Have Faith.” So be strong with God all things are possible!! way we can.” in all His ways. We just have to at all times in the Lord and know Do have a bless and productive According to the YES Programme secretariat manager, Leslie Connor, continue to be faithful to God and that God would indeed work it all week in the name of Jesus Christ hotel trades students under instructor Michael Guishard at the Royal St. our daily manual which is the out for your good. and know that your miracle is on Kitts Hotel, and the students training at the Keys Community Centre Bible, have the instruction for daily Father God I thank you for the the way. under instructor Dominic Stevens will combine as they showcase the skills they have learned so far, as part of the programme’s first anniversary celebrations. “This is an important milestone as far as this programme is Josephine Astaphan Celebrates 90 concerned,” observed Connor. “Our Prime Minister, Dr Denzil Douglas, went out of his way to ensure that the youth of this country are trained Glorious Years in the various areas, by creating the YES Programme. This is only one of the fields of training, and we have invited the Prime Minister to attend Basseterre, St. Basseterre, the Hon Dwyer the dinner.” Kitts, March 19, 2010 Astaphan). The Astaphan He observed that Prime Minister Douglas apart from engineering the (SKNIS): Mrs. matriarch noted that often creation of the programme in March last year, he keeps tabs on what Josephine Astaphan of times she had been they are doing, noting that he has previously been treated to a luncheon Church Street, chastised for having so by the group training at St. Paul’s, and for fine dining with the students Basseterre was joined many children but she saw at Royal St. Kitts Hotel. The Governor General, His Excellency Dr Cuthbert by representatives of them as blessings in her old Sebastian, and all cabinet ministers and senior government officials have the Ministry of Social age. She also expressed been invited. Development and appreciation for the people Gender Affairs in the of St. Kitts who she celebration of her 90th described as her brothers Birthday. and sisters. Surrounded by Mrs. Astaphan flowers, cake and other emphasized that St. Kitts was tokens of appreciation, her home and that she would Mrs. Astaphan was never stop loving her people. deeply moved, noting Mrs. Astaphan and her that not many people family are inviting the are fortunate enough to general public to join her at reach 90 years of age. Ninety year old Josephine Astaphan a Service in celebration of her Supervisor of Social life, this evening at the St. Assistance Ms. Ann Wigley Minister and Parliamentary George Anglican Church, agreed. She congratulated Mrs. Representative for Central Basseterre at 6:00 p.m. Astaphan on reaching the glorious age and brought greetings from her Minister, and Ministry. She described Mrs. Astaphan as one Pictures caption: of the bedrocks of the country, Lenworth Harris (left), Development Bank of Saint Kitts and Nevis noting that over the years she and General Manager, receives an invitation to attend YES Programme her late husband (Joseph) had anniversary dinner from Leslie Connor, the YES Programme silently assisted many nationals. secretariat manager. Ms. Evelyn Wigley was given the privilege of presenting Mrs. Astaphan with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the Ministry X-TRAS VOLUNTEER of Social Development. Mrs. Astaphan graciously accepted the present and thanked the Ministry TRAINING and the government. All volunteers who are registered to serve during the ICC WT20 She further expressed matches from May 5-10 are asked to attend a training session at the appreciation to God for her many Warner Park dining room on Saturday 27 March at 8.30am. Individuals blessings, particularly her children Supervisor of Social Assistance Mrs. Ann Wigley and Mrs. Josephine who are interested in serving but not yet registered, are also asked to (who included the late Dr Jamie Astaphan attend. For more information please call 466-8713. Astaphan and former government The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - NEWS - 17 them. Social Development and Gender Supervisor Wigley Senior Citizen Honoured Despite being forced to Affairs noting that the elderly congratulated Ms. Pinney on become immobile due to a broken have fought for many of the rights attaining such a grand age and At The Grand Age Of 96 hip bone, Ms. Pinney is still full of and social gains that are enjoyed wished her more birthdays in the spirit as the students of the today. future. Tucker-Clarke Primary School experienced when they visited her on her birthday, March 22. The students entertained Ms. Pinney with several renditions including well-know gospel favourites. Present at the short ceremony were also Home Care Officer, Iotha Charles, and Social Assistance Officer, Francine Pollock. It is the policy of the Ministry of Social Development to acknowledge citizens for their contribution toward the development of the Federation, in this instance the elderly. Ann Pinney and a student of the Tucker-Clarke Primary School Supervisor of Social Assistance, Mrs. Ann Wigley also Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 23, 2010 (SKNIS): It has been 96 years paid a visit to Ms. Pinney later Ann Pinney and Supervisor of Social Assistance Ms. Ann Wigley since Ms. Ann Pinney of Pond Pasture, East Basseterre has been on this during the day. She also brought earth, and family and friends are happy that she shared her life with greetings from the Ministry of Fatisha Imo eyes Miss Caribbean stage having placed first ruunner- World in Tortola up in the Ms. National Carnival BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, that affect this world – drugs, Queen Pageant 2007/2008 and MARCH 25TH 2010 (CUOPM) – gangs, etc,” said Ms. Imo, who also third runner-up in the Ms. St. Kitts makes a bid this weekend thanked her Parliamentary Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant. for the prestigious title of Miss Representative, Hon. Dr. Earl Asim Participants are also expected Caribbean World in Tortola, British Martin for his financial assistance. from Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Virgin Islands. She disclosed that her costume Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica, 20-year-old, Fatisha Imo, who is entitled “Jewelled Poinciana Ann Pinney and her adopted daughter and students of the Tucker- is currently pursuing a double Queen.” Clarke Primary School major in Accounting and Spanish Ms. Imo is no stranger to the (cont’d on page 18) at the Mid-Western State University in Texas, will compete in the 5th annual event on Government Joins Saturday March 27th, 2010 at the Multipurpose Sports Complex. UNESCO In Celebrating After accepting a monetary contribution from St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. “Clean Water” Denzil L. Douglas, who wished her success in the pageant, Miss Imo (cont’d from page 11) said she and her fellow Development was used to construct eight reservoirs, drill wells, lay contestants will make several several miles of new pipeline and replace old pipeline. It was also used appearances in Swim Suit, Talent, to build the office complex that now houses the Ministry of Utilities and Costume, Evening Wear, Interview the Water Services Department. and a Question and Answer Similarly, Permanent Secretary Peets informed that between 2003 and segment. Miss Fatisha Imo (left) accepts monetary contribution from St. Kitts 2006 EC$20 million was secured to finance the Water Supply Improvement “My talent is entitled “Are you and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas. (Photo by Project. By the end of the project an additional one million gallons of listening” and depicts the things Erasmus Williams) groundwater was being obtained per day. This was particularly needed in the areas of Cayon, Ogee Ghaut, Mattinley Heights and Conaree. After addressing the significance of water, Honourable Senator Nigel Carty, Minister of Education with responsibility for UNESCO, did not let the opportunity pass without acknowledging UNESCO. He acknowledged the entity for being actively and visibly engaged in a number of programmes and projects in the Federation in recent times. “These activities have served to enhanced our cultural, educational and social profile and have created opportunities for the country and its people to benefit in concrete ways,” Minister Carty said. “The list of successful UNESCO interventions is long and lustrous.” He mentioned Youth Path, Small Islands Voice, Training for Educators and Child Caregivers in Early Childhood and the Memory of the World Programme to which the St. Kitts register of slaves was recently recorded, as well as the Slave Route Project. Minister Carty further noted the Ministry of Education’s Peer Mediation and Monitoring Exercise, December 2010’s celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Brimstone Hill as a World Heritage Site, the Anti-Doping and Education in Sports Programme, the Community Media Centre Programme, the Teacher Training Laboratory, the Convention on Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage and the Survey on the Socio-Economic and Education background of the inmates at Her Majesty’s Prison. The outcome of the half day seminar is a compilation of recommendations that will be presented to local policymakers. 18 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 capacity as Senator with UNESCO voices responsibly for Education. Queen’s Baton tours He said that the Federation’s concerns on World access to an adequate supply of Federation water, however, he remarked that By Melissa Amsterdam the state of affairs is not Water Day guaranteed to be a permanent The Queen’s Baton made a stop to the Federation for three days – By Melissa Amsterdam fixture. arriving at the RLB International Airport on Friday 19th March and leaving “We must practise judicious on Tuesday 23rd March – as part as a tour to all 71 Common Wealth The issues of water was at the forefront of discussions as members and efficient use of our water Nations which will be taking part in the XIX Commonwealth Games of UNESCO Small Island Voice unloaded their concerns on solving the supplies,” Hon. Carty warned. scheduled for October 3rd – 14th in Delhi, India. water crisis of this millennium at the Ocean Terrace Inn (OTI), Fortlands He noted the importance of The Queen’s Baton was welcomed to St. Kitts, as it arrived from Basseterre on 22nd Monday. water as a life giving substance, Montserrat at 11 am. ‘Clean Water for a Healthy World’ was the theme used at the World “without which we cannot survive Among the local dignitaries at the airport to welcome the touring Water Day seminar which publicized the importance of the diminishing long as a people or even as a group of the Commonwealth Games officials and the Baton were the natural resource. planet”. Hon. Glenn Phillip, Minister with responsibility for Youth Empowerment It was mentioned that many of our lakes, streams and rivers are Hon. Carty viewed the event and Sports; former world athletic champion, Kim Collins.; Alphonso heavily polluted. as one in which the people of the Bridgewater, President of the St. Kitts-Nevis National Olympic Committee; Relaying a message from the UNESCO Director General, Antonio Federation could adequately and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports Lloyd Lazar. Maynard, Secretary General of UNESCO National Commission stated educate themselves on the After its reception at RLB International Airport the Baton made its that in such economic doldrums Governments will want to shy away conservation of water. way to Government House (Springfield, Basseterre) and Government from investments in water related matters. The seminar included group Headquarters (Church Street, Basseterre) where the Prime Minister, Dr. “UNESCO is an active contributor to the monitoring of the state of sessions in which students of the The Hon. Denzil Douglas addressed the gathering. the world’s fresh water resources,” Maynard said. various high schools and colleges Hon. Glenn Phillip noted at a cocktail reception later that evening – at To assist with the world water crisis, Maynard said that since 2003, aired their views, concerns and the Sugar Bay Hotel Conference Room – that the Baton is a technological UNESCO has overseen the training of over a dozen Water Scientists recommendations on the wonder and boasts many features. from developing countries to undertake water challenges. morning’s topic. The Minister of Sports said that the arrival of the Queen’s Baton is a “On this World Water Day 2010, I urge Governments, Civil Societies, At the conclusion of the “historic moment for the people of St. Kitts”. the Private Sector and all stakeholders to put the goal of clean water for seminar, the participants were able The baton is capable of recording photos and audio, contains LED a healthy world at the forefront of their priorities,” Maynard read. to report on the recommendations lighting that changes in each country to match the national flag colours He stated that UNESCO’s goal was to sensitize the public on a which would be submitted to the and contains soil from each of India’s 28 states and seven territories. timely issue of water for all and to subsequently inform policy makers Ministry of Public Works and Moreover, a small piece of 18k gold leaf is contained within a clear with certain recommendations emerging from the seminar. Utilities to be reviewed for possible jewel box on the top of the baton, on that gold in micro-calligraphy is Oaklyn Peets, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works, implementation. Queen Elizabeth II’s message to the Commonwealth. contributed to the forum with brief but insightful remarks. Also present at the morning He said during an interview that the Baton is capable of taking photos “The purpose of World Water Day is to create public awareness proceedings were persons from of its surroundings. related to the conservation and development of water resources,” both the private and public Minister Phillip said that the Queen’s Baton is an inspiration to St. reminded Peets. sectors. Kitts and its future in the world of technology. “The overall goal is to raise the profile of water quality at the political “Persons who have never heard of St. Kitts will now know about it, it level so that water quality considerations are made alongside those of will help with tourism in the Federation,” said Minister Phillip. water quantity,” he said. The following day, March 20th, the Baton travelled around St. Kitts He noted the many needs of water and outlined its beneficial uses to Fatisha Imo... visiting various cultural and historical sites, including the Brimstone Hill both man and animal, adding, “That is why government has made the (cont’d from page 17) Fortress, Sky Safaris, Romney Manor and Independence Square. necessary investment over the past 15 years”. On Sunday morning the Baton moved to the Zion Moravian Church He divulged that the Government has overseen a multitude of in Basseterre where members of the touring party and the local support Dominican Republic, Grenada, projects in which a loan of EC$18 million was secured from the Kuwaiti group and dignitaries including His Excellency the Governor General, Sir Guyana, Jamaica, Margarita Island, Fund for Arab Economic Development, in the late 90’s, to construct 8 Cuthbert Sebastian; Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Sam Condor; Minister Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Trinidad & reservoirs and wells, lay several miles of new pipe lines as well as replace of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Hon. Glenn Phillip participated in Tobago, USA, USVI and old pipe ones. the Devine service. Venezuela. During 2003-2006 a further capital investment of EC$20 million was The invitation was extended by devout member of the Zion Moravian According to BVI Online, secured to finance the Water Supply Improvement Project. Under this Church, Mr. Alphonso Bridgewater, President of the St. Kitts-Nevis several of the contestants arrived project an additional 1 million gallons per day of water was developed. Olympics Association. It was the first time during its tour that the Baton in the territory last Saturday. This according to Peets, “brought much needed improvement to had gone to a church. Last year 18 countries areas such as Cayon, Mattingly Heights, Ogees and Conaree. We It made its way to the TDC/Coca-Cola/LIME sponsored Interschool competed in the pageant with Miss continue to make the sustainable management of our water recourses a Dominica’s Marah Walter priority by investing human recourses and technology, amongst the capturing the title. ongoing initiatives are the expansion of our water chlorination Since the ladies arrived on programme, development of our geographic information system and the Saturday they have been getting development of a comprehensive master plan,” outlined Peets. non-stop fun. On Sunday, the Peets highlighted the fact that an estimated 1.1 billion people rely on Premier, Hon. Ralph T. O’Neal held unsafe drinking water resources, with that he pleaded, “We must all take a reception for them at Marias By stewardship to all of our natural resources, with regards to water every the Sea; they toured Virgin Gorda drop really counts”. on Monday, and on Tuesday they Acknowledging the dire water crisis was Hon. Nigel Carty in his had a live interview on JTV. On Wednesday, the young ladies toured Tortola then Championships at the Silver Jubilee Anniversary Stadium on, Bird Rock, participate in the Queen’s Baton Sunday 21st March, where it was displayed for the public to view. Relay activity at the H. Lavity The Baton’s last stop was in Nevis where it was received by Stoutt Community College. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports and Chairman of the local On Thursday they are organising committee Mr. Alsted Pemberton and was passed on to Special scheduled to attend the high Olympian Ms. Lavanda Forbes on the Charlestown Pier. school athletics meet, swim with Premier of Nevis Hon. Joseph Parry, who was on hand outside the the dolphins and visit the UP Alexander Hamilton Museum was next to hold the Baton, he in turn Cineplex. A motorcade will be held handed it to the Queen’s representative on Nevis, Deputy Governor on Friday at 4 p.m. followed by a General His Honour Eustace John. reception held by the Governor The Queen’s Baton left the Federation on Tuesday for the British where the personal interview will Virgin Islands and has toured 39 Commonwealth Nations thus far. be done. The Baton has been travelling the Common Wealth Since it left On Saturday morning, the Buckingham Palace in October, 2009. When it covers all of the beauties are scheduled to appear L-R) Kim Collins, Hon. Glenn Phillip, Fortuna Belrose and Commonwealth Nations which will be participating in the Commonwealth on ZBVI radio’s Teen Talk Alphonso Bridgewater carry the baton on arrival. Games it would have travelled a total of 190 000km. programme. The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 19 see where we came from. We Why the People’s Action Movement (PAM) begin to hate Labour, so that those who trampled the extensions of us did not win the 2010 Elections PART IV would know that we are on their side. Dear Reader, in my third episode of these series I showed you how Do you know, dear readers, that Today, they come in a different those who are privileged, treat those who are not so privileged. The in 1952 when the black folks were colour, but they are the doctors, Bible, which is the mouthpiece of the Christian Religion, tells us about allowed to vote without the lawyers, the businessmen, the the treatment meted out to Jesus for daring to tell the privileged ones of hindrances, that a lot of those now ex-managers of Sugar Estates, the His day, to love their fellowmen and to do justice to all. home owners, despite the ex-overseers of the Planters Good Friday coming up would be a memorial of Jesus for trying to discrimination they suffered to estate, those who treated their bring forth a better deal for the poor and the downtrodden. But that is build those homes, sided with the And so my dear reader, the black brothers and sisters with the system. Anyone who dares to fight for the injustices of the majority planters’ party? They were now same thing is happening over and scorn; they are coming today to of under privileged peoples of the world would either be assassinated, owners of homes and they had over again. We, who, through the tell you to hate yourself by hating overthrown, depicted by the mass media as the Devil himself, because it arrived. They were not living in dedication, the hard work, the Labour. They, whose newspaper is the rich and the powerful which owns the mass communications. And, any shabby neighbourhoods sacrifice of the Labour Movement, always condemn anything, which you know what dear reader? In most cases, we, the underprivileged, anymore. Their children were have enjoyed some upward social would uplift the ordinary black oppressed and exploited believe what they are saying. going to school in shoes and mobility are afraid to look down the man. Last week’s article was an education into our social history. I am socks. They severed all social ladder, for we were afraid and They whose parents stood in certain now, that we are all aware of our lineage, whether or not we want relationships with their families ashamed to view the extension of the halls of the Democrat to. We are the great sons and daughters of those who were brought here who were still in the ghettoes. those who worked in the sugar Newspaper Printery in 1935 and from Africa in chains, to work for free, so that others could heap huge Through the Labour Movement, cane fields, those who were the ordered the armed attacks on our profits. they were able to own a house, a domestic servants, those who were parents and grandparents because We are the extensions of those black people who were considered piece of land and they, for the very the drain cleaners, those who were they dared to defy Massa by dumb beasts by the white planters who brutalized them, so that they first time in their lives, were able to the street clearness, those who demanding better working could enjoy a certain social status. We are the great sons and daughters vote and gave their votes to those were the porters, the stevedores, conditions, are coming to tell you of those for whom the Labour Movement risked life and limb, to bring who opposed the idea of their the longshoremen. that you must hate yourself by dignity as human beings to us thus enabling us to enjoy a higher standard being owners. We are afraid to look down to hating Labour. of living. When we hate the Labour Movement, we hate ourselves, for, if it was left to the oppressors, we would still be as badly off as our brothers and sisters in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Robert Mugabe is a bad man because the whites who make up less Three parliamentarians celebrate 21 than 5% of the population own all the arable land and those blacks who fought for the independence of their country are still landless. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison fighting for a right which years each in the National Assembly we had in our possession since 1952. BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, the January 25th Hugo Chavez is introducing free education and medical attention, MARCH 22ND 2010 (CUOPM) – general election. especially for pregnant mothers, privileges we enjoyed when Mr. Three members of the St. Kitts and Following the Bradshaw established health clinics in almost all villages and towns in Nevis National Assembly are each 1989 general St.Kitts and Nevis. celebrating 21 years as elected election, all three All the rights and privileges which have been enjoyed by us because representatives. were re-elected in of the Labour Movement are being fought for in Latin America, Asia and It was on March 21st 1989 that successive Africa. So, dear reader to hate the Labour Movement is to hate yourself. the Hon. Sam T. Condor, the St. elections on 29th In 1950, the Labour Administration bought Greenlands, which was a Kitts-Nevis Labour Party November 1993; 3rd cane field in the heart of town. This was the first housing development candidate for St. Christopher # 3 July 1995, 6th March in Basseterre. It afforded the opportunity for the middle class of our (West Basseterre); Hon. Denzil L. 2000 ,25th October society and sugar factory workers especially, to become land owners Douglas, St. Kitts-Nevis Labour 2004 and January and owners of their own homes. Party candidate for St. Christopher 25th, 2010. There was no good and enlightened banking system in those days, #6 (Newton Ground to Harris’) and Dr. Douglas in for the banks were populated by whites from England and Canada. Loans Hon. Vance W. Amory, Concerned May 1989, was were not looked at as a business transaction, but as a favour granted. Citizens Movement (CCM) elected National Most of the home owners had to transact credit for materials from candidate for Nevis 10 were Political Leader of those who owned the sugar estates and still owned the business places elected for the first time to the St. Kitts-Nevis in Basseterre. They were displeased with the fact that Mr. Bradshaw and represent their respective Labour Party Labour were turning some of their own employees into homeowners like constituencies. (SKNLP), then in them. They did not favour the idea of doing business with landless Messrs. Condor, Douglas and opposition to the Hon. Sam T. Condor people. Their credit conditions were harsh. Very harsh! Amory were sworn in on March ruling People’s year at the Labour Party’s annual conference. To show their contempt, the Democrat Newspaper, the mouthpiece 10th, 2010 for a sixth consecutive Action Movement In the 1995 general elections, the St. Kitts- of the planters and big businesses came out with an article deriding Mr. term when a new National (PAM) and has Nevis Labour Party formed the government Bradshaw for giving land to people who do not own land. That particular Assembly was opened following been re-elected each with Dr. Douglas being appointed as Prime cane field could have yielded so many tons of sugar canes resulting in so many tons of sugar which could have been sold for so much money. Minister Isn’t this the same Democrat which has been criticizing everything the and Mr. Labour Movement does to better the lives of the ordinary folks in St. Condor was Kitts and Nevis? Deputy They said in their newspaper, that Mr. Bradshaw was making the Prime ordinary folks to live on the same level like them. One writer said in the Minister. 15 paper that he went into the Emporium Grocery (The Emporium Grocery is of the 21 the predecessor to Valu Mart and was situated in South Square or years have Independence Street) to purchase a ham at Christmas and here was this been in cane cutter coming in and purchasing a ham which was bigger than his. Government The writer blamed Mr. Bradshaw for this. Because he thought that it was and six in outrageous for the cane cutter to buy a bigger ham than his. opposition, But that is how life was about sixty years ago and that was not so while Mr. long ago. Yes! It was offensive for Mr. Bradshaw to give the land to the Amory has people of Greenlands to build houses. The owners of the land was against been sitting such a move and they were very reluctant to give any assistance in the on the line of credit to those same new land owners, even those who worked for opposition them. benches for A park was established as part of the developmental plan for 21 years. Greenlands and do you know the sons and daughters of the Greenlands Housing Project refused to play with the sons and daughters of the Mc Knight areas from whence some of the new home owners emerged? Hon Dr. Denzil L. Douglas Hon. Vance W. Amory 20 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 Easter Monday Aquatic Sports prepares for 52nd year of activities By Melissa Amsterdam dangling at the top of the pole and The Easter Monday Aquatic the famed Ham and Grease Pole Sports Day, which is in its 52nd which is greased while a ham year, is set for Monday April 5th, dangles at the end of the pole into at the Ferry Terminal, Basseterre. the water. The Annual activities The enthused coordinator according to organizer and stated that in the past only St. Kitts coordinator of the events, participated in the prestigious Winston ‘Zack’ Nisbett, said that games. This year Nevis will this year’s activities will be better participate in the games he than previous years. revealed. “This year is special,” he said, The members of the Special “it will be the 52nd anniversary, Olympics Team who participated and the name will be changed from in the Special Olympics games in MINISTER PHILLIP HAILS the Basil Henderson 4-H Easter Puerto Rico, earlier this year, doing Monday Aquatic Sports,” Nisbett the Federation proud with 41 informed. medals, will also take part on Easter INSPIRATIONAL “Every year it gets bigger,” Monday. Nisbett said about the Easter Another crowd pleaser is the PERFORMANCE OF Monday Aquatic Sports. Boxing in which both males and There will be an exciting line- females can take part. up of activities planned for the day Nisbett said that this year well VERCHILDS HIGH that can be enjoyed by a range of known boxer of St. Kitts, Topsie Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 24, 2010 (SKNIS): The success of the age groups. Nisbett said that who is in his 70’s and living in St. Verchilds High School at the 2010 TDC/Coca-Cola/Lime Interschool signing up for the event will be free. Thomas will be making an Climbing the pole Championships has been commended by the Minister of Sports and The types of aquatic races will appearance at the Aquatic Sports Parliamentary Representative for the area Honourable Glenn Phillip. be Men’s and Women’s Free Style events. contributions and unwavering The school followed up a third place performance in 2009 which and Boy’s and Girl’s Free Style. Boat racing is also high on the support. yielded 12 gold, 12 silver and 8 bronze medals with a strong challenge to Alongside that race will be list of activities with winner taking He named Courts as one of the defending champions Sandy Point High School. At the end of the back stroke which involves a lot home $1000. these biggest sponsors of the March 19 to 21 competition, Verchilds High School captured second of skills Nisbett said. Also there Nisbett went on to say that it games, TDC Automotive, Home place with 15 gold, 11 silver and 15 bronze medals. Sandy Point High will be butterfly and breast stroke was Basil Henderson who started and Building Centre, Scenic School earned first place with 19 gold, 10 silver and 21 bronze medals. races along with several relay races the annual events and he gave Railway, OTI, and The St. Kitts Air This feat is made even more impressive since Verchilds High has a and long distance ones and the Henderson credit for his stint with and Sea Port Authority as some of student population of 319 while Sandy Point has 590. Additionally, two challenging under water diving. the 4H Club which was also the business which will support of the school’s students Lonzo Wilkinson Jr. and Rosalie Pringle were Some of the most well known organized by him. the day’s event and the Electricity adjudged the top performers of the contest. and celebrated events that grasps Nisbett took hold of the reigns Department for their kind Minister Phillip, clearly moved by the continued progression of the the attention of the crowd of the yearly Aquatic sports after contributions. academic and athletic programmes, made a personal monetary donation attending the one day events are Henderson’s passing in 2003. He mentioned many other to the school’s sports department. This contribution follows up an earlier the Grease Pole in which a Nisbett wishes to thank all the contributors too numerous to presentation of a laptop (organized by the Constituency Representative) participant tries to climb a greased many willing and selfless name for their never ending to the language department of the school. pole to reach the sum of $200 contributors for their kind support. “He (Minister Phillip) is always interested in the school,” Principal Addison Warner told SKNIS. He explained that even before entering the field of politics, Minister Phillip has been a supporter, a tradition that he now continues while in Government. Principal Warner thanked the Minister for his continued commitment. He also expressed appreciation to the hard working staff of the Ministry of Sports as well as the St. Kitts-Nevis Amateur Athletic Association (SKNAAA). He added that the construction of the Silver Jubilee Athletics Stadium has made the Championships more competitive as local athletes look forward to performing in the national stadium. This weekend, student athletes on the primary school level will take center stage at the Rams Primary School Track and Field Championship.

St. Kitts and Nevis Works With Partners On ICT Policy Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 22, 2010 (SKNIS): St. Kitts and Nevis is working closely with regional agencies to ensure the development of the Information Society benefits all residents. Director of Technology, Wesley Wharton, recently lead a three- member team to St. Lucia to participate in a committee meeting of HIPCAR (Harmonization of ICT Policy in the Caribbean). The project is funded by Going for the ham on the greasy pole the European Union (EU) and has the stated goal of enhancing competitiveness in the Caribbean by targeting policies, legislation and regulatory procedures. policies to avoid additional education in the areas of E- the second and third phases of this Mr. Wharton told SKNIS that the purpose of the March 08-12 missteps in the regional integration Transaction, E-Evidence, Privacy workshop are slated to take place workshop was to assess the progress of the legislative and regulatory process and to adopt best and Data Protestation, Cyber around June or July, 2010. St. Kitts framework in participating countries which stretch from Bahamas in the practices. The vast developments crimes, and Access to Public and Nevis and Antigua have been north to Suriname in the south. in technology have necessitated Information among others. cited as possible venues. He explained that it was important for all countries to have similar these processes and call for greater Mr. Wharton disclosed that The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - SPORTS COMMENTARY - 21 learnt from the Indian sport Another Cash-cow! business managers? The access to infrastructure, and the market for Sports Commentary WITH Match that if you can! Do you Ahmedabad and Nagpur. players is regulated that it price is known that sport services are You see, as the empirical not allowed to go out of control. Modi said, “We already have some income elastic? Do you know that evidence shows (see my latest ETER DRIEN despite falling disposable income book, Sport Tourism), recession or pluses. Across the world, the P A and business profits, the demand major cost is of infrastructure and no recession, sport business Peter Adrien is an author and sports analyst. His latest United players’ salary. Here you get the for sport services should fall? Do prospers! The sporting industry Nation’s sponsored book, Sport Tourism, a must-read for policy you know that in the heart of low has demonstrated great resilience stadium pretty much free and there makers, tourism investors, hoteliers, academics and students is global demand – falling global and capacity to out-perform other is a cap on players’ salary as well. now available. Call Peter at 869-6689752; 869-4651603 or email consumption, the demand for sectors even the travelling Moreover, merchandising and [email protected] for a copy. sport services is increasing? industry, which has seen revenue from ticket sales is Visit Peter’s website WWW.goadriens.com. This is how Lalit Modi, the increasing difficulties of airline significant as result of large market Indian Premier League (IPL) industries. – large cricket loving populations. total number of games played by among probables for winners or commissioner,, puts it, “It only Modi confessed, “I was indeed Modi explained, “Merchandising all teams is 162 x 15 = 2,430. competitors in even 50 -60 nations shows there is no recession for the a little bit surprised by the amount. and ticketing are two other In the National Football League based tournaments so watching IPL and it is on the upswing.” Honestly speaking, I thought the revenue sources. The ticketing (NFL), each team plays 16 regular those games is anyways looks What had him to make that bold winning bid would be USD 300- revenue of all teams have gone up season games. There are 256 NFL buffoonery to people around you economic statement? The 320 million. So it was USD 40-50 six-seven folds. With YouTube games in the season. In the especially in my own case it has financial might of the IPL was million higher than my expectation. and Google in the picture, fan base National Basketball Association( happened a lot to me. BCCI like all demonstrated when Pune and The bidders must have done their is increasing across the world.” NBA), 30 teams play 82 games smart people have en cashed it and Kochi became the league’s two numbers well. We are just two The IPL, now having expanded each; there are 1230 games in the till competition comes from other new franchises, after being sold years old and every team that has to 10 franchises, could feature 94 regular season. In addition, there sports frankly sky is the limit for a value in excess of the original been run well must be making a games next year if it retains its is the playoffs where each series considering Indian People eight franchises combined. The profit. If not, they are probably current format. is a best of 7 (first team to 4 wins economic standing in world as Sahara group, the biggest patron marginally short of it.” There are concerns that there takes the series). rising economic power.” of sports in the country, became What is driving the demand for will be too many games. The Why does the sporting What is the economic spin-off? owners of the Pune franchise after cricket? What is making cricket so increasing workload would exact investment work in India? One Obviously, more franchises will offering a staggering US$370m. attractive to the sponsors and a heavy toll on the players. There analyst answered, “Indians watch create more opportunities for The other new franchisee is a investors? Modi said the IPL brand will be 300 matches in the domestic cricket as it is a fun thing to do people in India, thus raising their consortium of five companies was gaining popularity across the season but there might not be a with fellow Indians in India or standard of living. Perhaps this is called Rendezvous Sports World, globe and adding more patrons to case for a fatigue factor. In India, Abroad in other words pure an example of free market which bid US$333.33m for Kochi. its existing fan base. The scope for currently every team plays 14 cultural sort of event abroad and enterprise or capitalism bringing There were three other qualified expansion, he said, was greater matches; they will play 18 from In India just as a result of only growth and development – bidders, including Adani given the potential for greater next year. However the stress of option of some standard to see expanding the capacity for output, Enterprises and VC digital revenue compared to many other travelling will be cut down – this sports action. IPL is not a luxury investment, employment and solutions Pvt Ltd (Videocon), who sporting leagues. “Sports is one is the biggest issue, not playing business its just pure sports quality of life. were in the fray to become part of of the leading businesses of the matches. events conducted for time pass of Can the initiative work in the the IPL, which will be heartening world today. English Premier But mind you, the number of common Indians like me who Caribbean? What about the West for any existing franchise owners League, NFL, NBA, Spanish engagements in the established anyways suffer from paucity of Indies Cricket Board taking on a looking to offload their stake. League, Bundesliga — these professional leagues is not less entertainment and fun of big sports similar project? Sahara, who have been capture the imagination of the tasking. In baseball, the Major events in our lives. Anyways In our next column, we will sponsoring Indian cricket for the youth and the people. Build a League Baseball games per except cricket no other Mass game begin a series of discussions on past 15 years, had bid for the same strong base and your future is season. Each team plays 162 like football or soccer or basketball the feasibility of a professional amount for three cities, but defined. games. There are 30 teams, and for that matter have got credibility league in the Caribbean as a cash- ultimately chose Pune over What are the lessons to be each game has two teams, so the of our talent or we are not even cow.

who have seen this baton,” he Queen’s Baton Relay said. Mr. Parry also thanked the stops in Nevis officials who accompanied the CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (MARCH 22, 2010) — The Queen’s Baton Baton to Nevis. left the Federation on Tuesday March 25 for the British Virgin Islands Following the ceremony, the but not before it made a four hour stop in Nevis on Saturday afternoon. Queen’s Baton Relay continued The Baton which had already visited 39 countries on its tour of 70 throughout the island with athletes Commonwealth countries ahead of the XIX Commonwealth Games, slated on foot, cycles and vehicles. On for Delhi, India in 2011, arrived in St. Kitts on Friday from Montserrat. the route, there were a number of It was received on Nevis by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of stops to historical sites which Sports and Chairman of the local organising committee Mr. Alsted included the St. Thomas Anglican Pemberton and was passed on to Special Olympian Ms. Lavanda Forbes Special Olympian Ms. Lavanda Forbes with and Premier of Nevis Church, Nelsons Springs, Cottle on the Charlestown Pier. Hon. Joseph Parry after she handed him the Baton Church ruins, Nevis Pottery, the Moments later the Baton was passed on to Premier of Nevis Hon. Heritage Village, Fig Tree Anglican Joseph Parry outside the Alexander Hamilton Museum, who in turn In a brief welcome ceremony only teach those of us who are Church and Bath Hotel. handed it to the Queen’s representative on Nevis, Deputy Governor upstairs the Museum, Mr. Parry competing but those of us who The afternoon’s events General His Honour Eustace John. said he was hopeful that the will be watching and those of us (cont’d on page 22 ) baton’s presence on the island would deepen the understanding of the Nevis public of togetherness and friendship.

“I would hope that this little exercise in a way, will rub off on us here in Nevis that we will appreciate that people can get along, that people can be friends, that people can compete and there can be winners and losers and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports and Chairman of the they can still remain friends. local organising committee Mr. Alsted Pemberton receives the “That is a lesson that people Queen’s Baton from Vice President of the St. Kitts and Nevis National need to learn and I hope the Miss Culture 2009 Ms. Mascinda Nisbett hands over the Baton to an Olympic Committee Mr. Dennis Knight on its arrival in Nevis Commonwealth Games will not athlete 22 - SPORTS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 The 8th annual Nevis Triathlon had to NEVIS TRIATHLON 2010 be deemed a huge Nevis Triathlon Results(M) Olypmic Overall success, with far more Name Country Swim time Bike times Run Times athletes and attending Out In Out In countries than had Marcus Dodd UK 23:41 25:59 1:25:28 1:26:03 2:10:55 been expected, the Ancil Greene TT 25:04 27:03 1:31:56 1:32:33 2:17:10 race director Winston Clarance Tobias TT 31:06 32:55 1:37:15 1:37:55 2:18:39 Crooke stated “it was David Hay TT 24:18 26:22 1:31:59 1:32:54 2:21:36 amazing to see the Emmanuel Cau St.Barth’s 24:13 26:21 1:32:35 1:33:32 2:21:59 number of people James Weekes Nevis 31:00 33:01 1:36:06 1:37:02 2:25:50 joining in, especially Reggie Douglas Nevis 28:49 31:10 1:33:59 1:34:37 2:29:12 in the Try-A-Tri Laurent Guy SXM 24:34 26:59 1:33:59 2:01:49 2:30:02 event, it was Erik De Zinger SXM 26:59 29:24 1:42:22 1:43:15 2:38:20 wonderful to se so Lenoir Stephane St.Barth’s 30:57 33:43 1:40:39 1:41:38 2:39:32 many first timers Philippe Dutilleul France 26:40 30:01 1:43:22 1:44:26 2:41:46 getting involved” The Dalua Hubert SXM 30:54 34:33 1:55:04 1:56:32 2:52:03 event was also the St Robert Schamhart USA 31:56 36:50 1:53:20 1:55:36 3:06:35 Kitts & Nevis Matt Lloyd Nevis 27:16 30:47 1:48:40 1:50:51 3:13:06 National Randall Brown USA 32:40 36:12 1:59:24 1:59:56 ******** Championships male Khalid Hakim Nevis 37:05 39:59 2:18:10 2:19:13 3:25:07 and female for 2010, Olivier Inguenand France 25:27 27:32 1:23:24 1:28:20 DNF and new for this year Female and 5km fun run was Volunteer Orientation and Registration March 4 Hannah Barnes Scotland 36:00 38:24 1:47:21 1:49:02 2:42:50 included as a Miranda Fellows Nevis 32:38 36:00 1:49:11 1:50:10 2:44:38 fundraiser. Laura Talaga St.Kitts 37:37 40:10 1:58:46 1:59:50 3:03:49 TRAINING STARTS FOR ICC There was a great Molly Weissert St.Kitts 29:09 33:50 2:04:33 2:06:27 3:10:53 crowd in attendance Rachel Grobbezaar Zimbabwe 33:00 37:38 2:03:35 2:05:23 3:18:55 from the outset of the WT20 MATCHES IN ST KITTS Relay swim in Gallows Bay, A dedicated pool of volunteers will undergo extensive training this Team Nevis NEV 23:18 25:41 1:15:60 1:15:36 2:11:40 with the T.A.T weekend in preparation for ICC World Twenty20 West Indies 2010 – Team Tepo USA/Nev 45:25 47:12 2:15:15 2:15:55 3:29:51 athletes starting their where once again volunteers are expected to be a shining example of 250 mtr out and back Caribbean hospitality. swim by themselves, once they TAT racers had to do one lap of the bike course that took them out to Known this time around as the WT20 X-TRAS, volunteers from had all finished the Olympic and Cotton Ground and back, the Sprint did 2 laps and the Olympic 4 laps of different walks of life will gather at Warner Park on Saturday to be trained Sprint athletes were stated the 40km course, the shortened course allowing the onlookers to better as St. Kitts gets ready to stage first-round matches in the women’s together on the triangular course. follow the race action as the riders rode through the car park to start their tournament from May 5-10 Totally dominant in the swim was laps. It became evident that Marcus was not only fast in the water but In outlining the program, Volunteer Coordinator Shirley Adams Olympic Relay Team member Rhian extremely quick on the bike, with his aero helmet and very high tech tri indicated that presentations will be made on customer service, Purdy (MUA) who led from start bike, he was flying around the course. There were of course huge cheers communication, attitude, assertiveness, rights, and responsibilities. to finish, completing the 2 lap 1500 for current National and OECS champion Reggie Douglas, and for James These topics will be presented by a host of competent and highly skilled mtrs in 23:18, hotly pursued by Weekes, the two most obvious local contenders for the day and the 2010 individuals such as Julie Charles and Creighton Pencheon. eventual overall winner Marcus National Male championships. ICC WT20 WI 2010 Event Manager in St Kitts, Val Henry, will give an Dodd (UK). A treat for the At the finish Marcus held onto his lead to the finish with the athletes overview of the tournament while Steve Saunders – in charge of Cricket spectators was to have the Ancil Greene and Clarence Tobias from T&T rounding out the podium Operations – will update participants on the event format and WT20 Olympic athletes exit and re-enter top spots, James Weekes battled through a painful injury in the run to re cricket terminologies which volunteers may encounter from patrons. the water after the 1st lap enabling claim the National Champions title he held from 2000 – 2004, for Miranda Event Branding and Sponsorship will be covered by Promotions and them to clearly see who was Fellows it was a great return to form as she took the National female title Corporate Services Officer, Clement Ogarro. positioned where in the race. The and 2nd female overall. In the Sprint, it was 2009 defending champion Adams concluded “the session starts at 8.30am on Saturday 27th, Sprint swim leg was won by Ramnarine taking the top spot In fine style once more with Alexander March and all volunteers are asked to ensure that special attention is Jonathan Paul (T&T) with a time Fox in the top spot for the females. paid to the details of the training as it is imperative to know how to deal of 11:48. When counted, more than 85 athletes were in attendance for the with spectators, players, and officials during the six day event.” As the competitors three categories, Olympic, Sprint and Try-A-Tri, the overall winners were:- She also appealed for individuals who are still interested in serving transitioned from swim to bike in OLYMPIC MALE – Marcus Dodd (UK) 2:10:55 as X-TRAS to register with the ICC Venue Office located upstairs at the converted car park on Samuel “FEMALE – Hannah Barnes (Scotland) 2:42:50 Warner Park. Persons are needed to volunteer as ushers as well as to Hunkins Drive, they were greeted SPRINT MALE – Ramnarine Chanderpaul (Trinidad & Tobago 1:1:26 assist with ticketing, parking, media management, and meeting and by Winn FM’s Vernon Springer “FEMALE – Alexandra Fox (SXM) 1:26:48 greeting fans and VIPs. Registration will be done prior to Saturday’s who joined the event as co-host, TRY-A-TRI ADULT MALE – Paul Skiller (UK) 42:52 training session. Persons are asked to call 869-466-8713 for further his bright and energetic style “FEMALE – Carrie Shirley (St Kitts) 52:50 information. quickly getting the crowd involved “JUNIOR MALE – Jose Garcia (Puerto Rico) 48:50 and cheering the athletes on. The “FEMALE – Sasha Lloyd (Nevis) 49:35 (cont’d from page 21) Queen’s Baton.... Committee Mr. Dennis Knight and Area Vice concluded near sunset when the Baton was handed over to the President of the Commonwealth Games Commonwealth Games Officials who had accompanied it since its Federation Ms. Fortuno Belrose. King Meko departure from Great Britain last year en route to Deli. The baton is sang a rendition of his popular calypso “Nevis expected to arrive there in time for the start of the Commonwealth Games Nice”. in October 2010. At the ceremony, brief remarks also came from His Honour Eustache John, Vice President of the St. Kitts and Nevis National Olympic

Cyclist Reggie Douglas carries the Baton with Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of fellow Sports and Chairman of the local cyclists in organising committee Mr. Alsted Pemberton The Baton stops with athletes from the St. Thomas Newcastle hands over the Queens Baton to an official Primary School at the St. Thomas Anglican Church, Joycelyn Liburd Primary School students prepare to run who accompanied the baton since its the oldest Anglican Church in the Caribbean their leg of the Baton Relay in Gingerland departure from Britain last October for Deli The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 23 Sandy Point High School wins Inter- Speaking with the St. Kitts – School Athletics Competition for the 19th Nevis Amateur Athletics Association Public Relations By Charles Miller Jr time since the start of the contest 34 years ago. Officer, Evris Huggins, he stated The Sandy Point High School Although Verchilds High did that he was impressed with the came out victorious at the 2010 not take home the win, they did strategy of the Sandy Point High TDC/Coca Cola LIME Inter-School take home the prestigious titles of School and the standards put out Championships held at the Silver both Victor and Victrix Lodorum. by the Victor and Victrix Lodorum. Jubilee Athletics Stadium, Bird By: Vigilante These were awarded to Lonzo Other highlights within the Rock, over the last weekend. Wilkinson Jr and Rosalie Pringle exciting weekend was a 100 meter * De expired PAM leader up and dung complaining how he Their excellent performances respectively for their consistent race between some of the nation’s lawyers now look like dey fraid Douglas. He say he tell them long led to their winning of 19 gold and stellar performances top athletes – Kim Collins, time ago to file papers in courts to get an injunction to stop de medals, 10 silvers medals and 21 throughout the weekend events. Delwayne Delaney, Jason Rogers, budget session, but like de opening of Parliament, dey ain’t tek bronze medals. Other schools that participated Melville Rogers, Lyndal Philip, him on. The 3 – day athletic meet which were the Charlestown Secondary Tristan Henslay and Everette * Instead – said he – they put up “de juicy senator” to make a was declared open on Friday School (4th); Basseterre High Hendrickson, an appearance of the thorough fool of himself, and as a result he and the de hopeless evening (March 19th), concluded School (5th); the C.F.B College Queen’s Baton, which was visiting fellow from Cayon became the laughing stock of de country who on Sunday night (March 21st) with (6th); Gingerland Secondary (7th); the Federation as a lead up to this were clearly trying their best to disrupt the proceedings of Parliament the Verchilds High School taking AVEC (8th); Cayon High School year’s Commonwealth Games in and create disorder. second place with a tally of 15 gold, (9th); Saddlers Secondary School Delhi, India, and a musical * Dey say “de juicy senator” walked with three big law books as 11 silver and 15 bronze medals; (10th) a first timer in the Inter- performance by singing sensation, if he was going to fight a big constitutional case in court, but he followed by the Washington School sporting events and the St. Infamus as the athletes were being was stopped in his tracks and had to be reminded over and over Archibald High School, in third Theresa’s Convent High School awarded their respective medals. again that he was not in courts, he was in Parliament. place, with 13 gold, 11 silver and (11th) 15 bronze medals. * Dey say de expired PAM leader stone mudder vex that he The Washington Archibald wasn’t allowed to have his way, and he cursing left, right and centre, High School also captured the top maintaining that they (his lawyers and colleagues in PAM) are a award of the Cheerleading bunch of crooks and hypocrites. And dey say he and Daddy Grant competition on the opening day; planning for them. while the Sandy Point High School * Dey say he has confessed to one of his boys that he has took the award for the March Past. already lost some good weight since de elections and the only At the close of the second day thing that will help him to simmer down and stabilize his health is (Saturday), the Verchilds High an injunction to shut down Parliament and keep de young Labour School led the competition in terms rookie who has been causing so much pain and misery, out of de of medal count; but the Sandy House. Point High School dominated the * As the campaign to dump de expired PAM leader rages on, final day (Sunday) and was able he’s becoming more and more desperate each passing day and to pull off another convincing he say he will never forgive de juicy senator for conspiring with the victory, to capture the coveted title The Sandy Point High School with their respective trophies. Photo former Tek Way Key Minister and his gang for undermining and of champions of the Interschool by Willett’s Photo Studio betraying him. * People want to know how de juicy senator could state in the local press that “Parliament is null and void”, because there is no Revised Edition of St. Christopher’s Laws launched Deputy Speaker, but he still show up bright and early for the Budget (cont’d from page 2) thrown on many a matter that was inconsistencies; there were Session on Tuesday morning with his four other colleagues once mystery.” several discrepancies and “Members of Parliament” from the PAM/CCM coalition led by de Brief remarks were also mistakes in our written laws that will be relieved of the burdensome Sheriff. expressed by Hon. Patrice Nisbett, were identified by the Law revision task of spending hours to find the who recently assumed the position team. The launch of the new * Dey say one of his drinking buddies say that he was very applicable law will be a thing of of Attorney General, following the revised edition of our laws today disappointed with the performance of the juicy senator in de House the past. He added that when the recent General Election. would put an end to that kind of on Wednesday evening and he admitted to them that Cindy would laws are available electronically He said that he was made to frustration, the uncertainty and have done a far better job. next year the task of law will be understand that “the revision of difficulties in ascertaining the true * When it was reported to her what Baby Grant said, she made even easier and less time the laws was basically a house and certain state of our laws”. remarked – “Well, dey say I have too much baggage, and I’m not consuming, “more time can now keeping exercise which involves “I emphasize that they are mature enough like him but God ain’t like ugly. “They got a lot be used to analyze the law instead locating all the existing laws and numerous benefits to be derived more embarrassment to face”. of researching it,” he stated. putting it together in a useful from this law revision project,” he * People want to know how “Roy Angry” and his PAM agents in “Upon taking office I realized arrangement and format, continued, “having created a Central could be so brazen to use a man who lives in Constituency that the state of our laws left little correcting errors, purging gaps reliable electronic database of our 7, but registered and voted in Dorset to object to over 100 duly to be desired,” said Delano Bart and inconsistencies so that at the laws we can now quickly access registered voters in Central Basseterre, claiming that they don’t Q.C. end of the day the whole body of any written law up to the year 2002. live in the constituency. He noted that the project was laws could be published in a new Reliability, any written law can now a challenging one, however, the * They want to know too, how they could have the gall to talk and binding manner. be quickly located as and when urgency for a law data base and about electoral fraud when all de hearings of objections (by PAM) Keynote speaker, Prime such written law is required. the consolidation of the laws was of people’s names on the Voters’ Lists in Constituencies 1, 2, 4, Minister Dr. the Hon. Denzil Consistency, legal issues or the motivation to push on with the have clearly revealed that they are the ones guilty of electoral fraud; Douglas reiterated the sentiments matters will be dealt with in a project. with many of their own supporters openly abusing and embarrassing of the earlier speakers adding that, consistent manner as a result of “Mr. Mukasa and the Hon. them. “Prior to the publication of the new having a reliable law database.” Prime Minister shared the vision revised edition it was extremely Prime Minister Douglas *Since his objection to over 300 duly registered voters in EAST why this project was saved,” Bart difficult to locate and ascertain the emphasized that the recent Basseterre, de soft Macaroni fellow has come under heavy fire Q.C said in relation to the hiccups current state of the law in many updates will enhance the from many of the PAM supporters he objected to and they have experienced in the duration of the areas. Legal practitioners and other proficiency and integrity of the told him that they are so disappointed in him that they will make project, “we must thank them,” he users of the law would have to judiciary and legal profession. sure he doesn’t run for PAM again, for he’s a total waste. said. wade through several documents The thirteen volumes were * Dey say de poor fellow has been put under so much pressure Mr. Bart ended by saying, including amendments to find the unveiled for the viewing of His that he has been forced to stop answering phone calls from angry “There is no doubt that when the law as it stands today. Excellency, the Governor General, PAM supporters. laws are updated for any country This, he said, has had a Sir. Cuthbert Sebastian, several * People want to know what’s the relationship between de expired and easily accessible, many negative effect on our legal system members of the Federation’s legal PAM leader and the female investigative photographer for PAM and benefits will flow to the Federation and our own dispensation of fraternities, and number of the Democrat. They want to know too if she has any photos of the and its citizens. Investors will now justice. dignitaries and invited guests, cookies that went missing in action from the cookie jar during the be able to invest with great “Moreover,” Prime Minister including the representatives of Miss Culturama Queen Show in Nevis some years ago. confidence as many a light will be Douglas said, “there were some the local media. 24 - ADVERTISEMENT - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, MARCH 26TH 2010