Douglas Gets Day in Court Over Passport Story Bus Crash Has on Page St

Friday January 11th, 2019 The Federation’s Politically Independent News Source Issue #1263 ANOTHER YEAR AND NEVIS REMAINS WITHOUT PIER

STORY ON PAGE 12...

DOUGLAS GETS DAY IN COURT OVER PASSPORT STORY BUS CRASH HAS ON PAGE ST. PAUL COMMUNITY 18... ASKING FOR ACTION PAGE 21... A FATHER’S PLEA: ‘WHAT HAPPENED TO MY SON?’

STORY ON PAGE 17...

CMYK Page:2 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Free Nevis Prostate Screenings kicks off on Saturday

By Monique Washington that have close family who attended the event The first part is a testdone. for be joined by Dr Chris members who have died last year said he was not a prostate-specific - an Gomez, Dr. Brian Cohen from prostate disease. sure if he would go back. tigen, called a PSA test He noted that in or- and Dr Daniel Caruso The 12th annual Free . The doctor will take a der to get “good along with a nurse from Prostate Screening drive The first year saw 20 “Everything was fine blood sample that will comprehensive solid Alexander Hospital . is set to be hosted in men being examined. last year so I’m not sure determine the level of a screening” both of them Nevis, with hundreds By the 10th year, 622 if I would be going back protein which is made are necessary. He said The free prostate drive is of men expected to be men had been exam- this year. Maybe next by the prostate. that data has reveled also held in St. Kitts and examined. ined, setting a record for year,” he said that the PSA is a little bit Antigua later in the year. the event. In the second part the more sensitive than the The event will be held Prostate exams are rec- doctor will insert a rectal examination, but Caption: A team of on Saturday, Jan 12, at Ahead of testing, The ommended for men ev- gloved, lubricated fingerthere still need to be the doctors will be visiting ‘The Occasions”. Observer asked a num- ery year and can detect into the rectum. They do rectal examination. With Nevis this Saturday to Registration opens at ber of random men inflamed or enlarged this to check the size of the combination of the provide free prostate 6am and ends at 12 over 40 years old if they prostates. They can also the prostate and feel for two, it is very difficultexams. From left to noon. would be participating. catch the onset of pros- abnormalities. for the doctors to miss right: Dr Chris Gomez, One man said he did not tate cancer, the second- something. Dr. Brian Cohen, Dr The initiative began and believes that if he most common form of Thwait noted that some Dwayne Thwaits and with Miami urologist Dr feels fine that means hecancer for men. men try to avoid the “If you just do one it Dr. Daniel Caruso Dwayne Thwaites vol- is fine. rectal examination but would make it harder,” unteering to exam any The prostate testing will he said both parts of the said Thwaites. This man 40 or older and men Another man, “Cecil” be done in two parts. test were imporant to be year, Dr Thwaites will Universal Health Care proposal moves forward as consultants arrive

Kenichi Serino Health Care Secretariat coordi- advice, the UHC commission ‘improve financial protection.’ social security system which nator Clifford Griffin said that will then create a White Paper, covers both employees and the Mornea Shepell is “an estab- which will be the formal policy The challenges in the current self-employed and protecting A proposal to implement a lished firm with internationalproposal that will be submitted system include “gaps” in health people from the financial risks Universal Health Care (UHC) experience in actuarial consul- to the cabinet and public for care which leave people with- of health care. programme on St. Kitts has tancy undertakings.” consideration. out private insurance making moved forward yesterday week high out-of-pocket payments as According to the paper, a UHC with the arrival of a team of Last month, a series of town Officials expect the entire- pro well as gaps in the availability programme would offer afford- actuarial consultants in the hall events presenting the process to be over in the first threeof health care. There is also a ability, “essential medicines Federation. posals for UHC to the public months of this year. According challenge in gathering infor- and technologies” and access to came to a close. At the time, to the policy proposals for mation in the current system trained health professionals. The two-person team led by UHC commission chair Azilla UHC, a national health insur- which would need to change Derek Osborne of Morneau Clarke said the next step would ance system is need due to the to make the system more However, the policy paper Shepell in the Bahamas will be the hiring of consultants who “ongoing concerns and chal- “evidence-driven”. warns that UHC would not meet with officials from would the be funded by the Pan- lenges related to the burden of offer free coverage for all Finance and Health Ministries American Health Organization. diseases, the demand for, deliv- The policy proposal sets out possible health interventions, as well as the Social Security These actuarial consultants will ery and financing of an efficient some prerequisites which in- regardless of the cost, “as no Board. look over the proposal, estimate health care services with the clude, a “fresh state” with country can provide all ser- costs and recommend pos- need to ‘be more sustainable’; UHC, creating a network of vices free of charge on a sus- In a statement, Universal sible premium rates. With this ‘provide barrier-free access’ and overseas providers, creating a tainable basis.” LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:3 Students of the University of Virginia sensitize on cervical cancer

By Monique Washing- for the students . exposed to HPV, a cancer and prevention,” you can prevent cervi- when it does come on ton woman’s immune sys- said Cohn. cal cancer and other stream that they do their “We started on St .Kitts tem typically prevents cancers associated with reading, they do their and were there for five the virus from doing “The message to the the HPV. research. Speak to a Twenty students from days. We worked with harm. In a small group public is that cervical doctor and get enough the University of persons on St. Kitts of women, however, the cancer is one of the The vaccine will be in- information to help Virginia Center for talking about cervical virus survives for years, most preventable can- troduced in Nevis some secure their decision,” Global Health visited cancer, cancer and the contributing to the pro- cers that we have. It time this year health of- James said. the federation to bring cancer registry. Then cess that causes some not just something we ficials said. awareness of cervical we came to Nevis,” cells on the surface of need to think about as “The stats on HPV glob- cancer and the Human she said. the cervix to become women, it is important The Observer also spoke ally, we know it is there, Papilloma Virus to the cancer cells.” for men too. Men can with Shelagh James, we know it is a danger. workplace. According to the Mayo have HPV and HPV can Health Promotion Unit Basically we are trying Clinic “cervical can- The students presented cause cancer amongst Communication Officer to protect because the Dr. Wendy F. Cohn led cer is a type of cancer information and tips on men as well,” she said. who said that when the cure is going to cost a the group of student that occurs in the cells cervical cancer and how vaccine is introduced on lot more,” James said. on their ten-day visit of the cervical— the it can affect both men Cohn pointed out that the islands persons will to St. Kitts and Nevis lower part of the uter- and men. cervical cancer is seri- not be forced to get it. The Ministry of Health/ where they visited us that connects to the ous but there are two Health Promotion three businesses. vagina .Various strains “These students pre- main ways to prevent “We cannot force any- Unit is offering free of the human papil- pared these presenta- it. The first is throughbody against their will pap smears and cervi- Speaking with The loma virus (HPV), a tions on their own.The annual screenings of to have anything done. cal cancer screening Observer on Tuesday, sexually transmitted students learned about women by pap smears. Immunizations are there at any health center. Cohn said that the trip infection, play a role public health and spe- The second way is to and they are there for a January is designated to the federation was in causing most cervi- cifically about cervi- get vaccinated for HPV. reason. What I would as Cervical Cancer a learning experience cal cancer.” “When cal cancer and cervical By getting vaccinated suggest to persons is Awareness Month. Sir Dennis praises Caribbean Court of Justice

Former President of v Guyana; complaints appeal for more the Caribbean Court from CARICOM man- CARICOM Member of Justice (CCJ), the ufacturers of wheat States to join the ap- Right Honourable Sir products to compel the pellate jurisdiction of Dennis Byron, a native Suriname Government the CCJ, which would of St. Kitts and Nevis, to impose tariffs replace on the London- has praised the ac- extra-regional imports based Privy Council. complishments of the from the Netherlands This, however, for Trinidad-based court, in Hummingbird Rice many States requires a which was established Mills Ltd v Suriname; referendum. in 2005 to replace the and I suppose the most London-based Judicial well-known case estab- Recently, Antigua and Committee of the Privy lishing and enforcing Barbuda and Grenada Council as the region’s the right of CARICOM held a referendum on final court and to func- citizens to hassle-free the CCJ on November tion as an international travel within the region 6, 2018, and the people tribunal interpreting in the Shanique Myrie v voted to remain with the Revised Treaty of Barbados.” the Privy Council. It Chaguaramas that gov- was Grenada’s second erns the regional inte- While all CARICOM referendum. gration movement. Member States are sig- natories to the Original The arguments will Speaking at the Prime Jurisdiction of the CCJ, linger for a long time: Minister’s New Year’s Former President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), the Right Honourable Sir only four CARICOM Should all Member Gala on January 5, at Dennis Byron Member States, name- States of CARICOM the St. Kitts Marriott ly Barbados, Belize, have the CCJ as their Resort, Sir Dennis said this evening, and every successes in its Original to impose the agreed Guyana and Dominica final Court of Appeal that the CCJ “is an im- member state is part of Jurisdiction, includ- tariffs on extra-re- have signed on for the and will more choose to portant symbol of re- its operations including ing but not limited to gional cement imports Court to be its finalremain with the Privy gional unity.” St. Kitts and Nevis,” he “responding to com- from the Dominican court of appeal on civil Council, like Antigua said. plaints from a ce- Republic in the case and criminal matters. and Barbuda and “It is the original juris- ment manufacturer in Trinidad Cement Grenada, as their final diction that is very rel- Sir Dennis said that Trinidad to compel the Limited and TCL Sir Dennis has often appellate court? evant to our discussions the CCJ has many Guyanese government Guyana Incorporated made a passionate Page:4 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS EDITORIAL Mixed-up messages

In democracies that are designed around a fi rst-past-the-post system, Parliamentary Oppositions are very limited in what they can do. They have no executive authority and their role is often relegated to criticism of the government and or public entertainment. Sometimes, but increasingly less commonly, the Opposition input NOW is educational. AVAILABLE AT Her Majesty’s Opposition brought a motion and a presentation to the National Assembly on Christmas Eve that Hon Mark Brantley of the Government side described as bringing “the [carnival] show to the House”. At least, Dr Douglas had a parliamentary platform – and a right to that platform - to have his show.

Afterwards, the country was treated to Christmas radio messages from the Parliamentary Leaders of both the Nevis Island Assembly and the National Parliament. Except for the Opposition of Nevis Island Assembly. They are in a LARGE curious position. Let us explain.

Readers will recall that after the last NIA elections in December 2017, the then parliamentarian and Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) candidate, Robelto Hector was defeated at the polls while colleague candidate, Joseph Parry, retained his seat and FORMAT became the sole person sitting on the opposition bench. Subsequently, in October 2018, the said Robelto Hector won the leadership of the NRP when former leader Parry stepped down. We wondered then, as we do now, how the party would be led without the leader having a platform in the law making body of the island. As this paper reported then, Mr Hector is “seatless”, a situation that renders a politician powerless.

Last week, we were treated to four New Year messages; one from Hon Dr Timothy Harris, Parliamentarian, Prime Minister and Leader of the People’s Labour Party, another from Hon Mark Brantley, Parliamentarian, Premier and Leader of the Concerned Citizens Movement, from the Rt. Hon Dr Douglas, Parliamentarian, Leader of the Opposition and Leader of St. Kitts Nevis Labour Party and then from Robelto Hector, Non-Parliamentarian but Leader the NRP. In other words, we heard from an ordinary citizen who, quite honestly, lacks the essential qualifi cations to address the nation! && In his speech, citizen Hector promised, among other things, to meet with the management of the Four Seasons Resort to ameliorate the eff ect on the economy by the pending closure of the resort. He promised to take advantage of world activities such as Brexit, and was also very dismissive of the work that the NIA has been doing and has done for 2018. These are noble promises indeed, but what exactly is Mr Hector’s bargaining power in these matters? Wouldn’t it have been better to allow Hon Joseph Parry, Parliamentarian and opposition person to bring this message? Promises, they say, are comforts to fools. Promises based on fake authority makes WIDE fools of us all. Perhaps the NRP Leader should have just wished us all a Happy New Year, let the parliamentary representative deliver the message and leave the rest for the campaign platform. He may have ample opportunity soon. FORMAT PRINTING The Federation’s Politically Independent News Source

St. Kitts Nevis POB 657, Lower Market Street #1 Observer Plaza, Observer Drive TEL: FAX: Basseterre, St. Kitts, W.I. Charlestown, Nevis, W.I. Tel.: (869) 466-4994 Tel.: (869) 469-5907 Fax: (869) 466-4995 Fax: (869) 469-5891 Email:[email protected] Email: [email protected] 469-5907 469-5891

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Kenneth Williams Website: newstkittsnevisobserver.com

Editorial Policy: The Observer reserves the right to edit, rewrite, summa- rise or reject any unsolicited material. We will assume that all letters addressed to The Observer or its staff are intended for publication unless oth- erwise stated. Letter writers are required to sign their names and are asked to include a telephone number to allow verifi cation. Views expressed in letters, commentaries or personal columns do not necessarily represent the [email protected] viewpoint of this newspaper. Limit submissions to 1000 words LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:5 LETTER TO THE EDITOR A New Year means new resolutions-- how are you going to hit them?

The start of the new year, here on St. Kitts like elsewhere, is fi lled with a fl irtatious blend of refl ective and positive infl uences on our motiva- tion. Goals are set. Targets are in aim. GO!

Engines are now on full blast into the new year. It is a time when you walk into every day buzzing with excitement about the achievements you have set out to accomplish. As February, March and April come around something strange starts occurring in your mind and behav- iour. Suddenly your goals are not that exciting anymore. You begin to question your ability to hit your targets. Then boom, it’s all over. New Year’s Resolutions are blurred and you’re back where you left off in the previous year.

As a personal trainer at Crossfi t Liamuiga, I’m no stranger to seeing this play out again again. Getting fi tter, stronger and healthier is a goal many people set for themselves but, unfortunately, struggle to stick to their resolutions. If you’re reading this and have ever set yourself a resolution, this may sound very familiar. But though many people set resolutions they never ask “why?” they set them.

Understanding your “why?” is as critical as your next breath. Understanding why you want to achieve any goal is more important than the goal itself.

“I want to lose weight,” that’s the goal.

“I want to lose weight because being a good example for my family while having the freedom to enjoy life on my terms,” is the why you create the goal.

Having a great sense of self awareness also adds a huge advantage in fi guring out why you want to accomplish the goals you set at the start of a new year. Being fully streamlined with your current mental, physical and environmental state aids in benefi ting strong “whys” that usually results in goals that are successfully accomplished.

Surround yourself with people that have already accomplished similar goals to the ones you have set for yourself. Get them to explain why it was so important for them to achieve their goals from their perspective. Seek validation from your peers as to why you have selected the goals you want to achieve. Constantly add new “whys” to the same goals to strengthen and deepen your desire to actually achieve the goals you have set for yourself.

A dream is only a dream until it becomes a plan. A plan is only eff ective when the why behind the plan is understood.

Zenhastel Hector Crossfi t Liamuiga, Co-owner Basseterre, St. Kitts. Page:6 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Ramada by Wyndham to open this year, promises 300 jobs

By Kenichi Serino Wyndham to completion. Individuals with hospitality skills will The Ramada by be employed and we Prime Minister Hon Dr. Timothy Harris poses for pictures with staff from Caribbean Galaxy Real Estate at the Prime Wyndham Hotel will will provide training Minister’s Gala last Saturday open in the middle of as the hotel is readied this year and will hire for opening,” the de- assertions” around the media have claimed that said it was “proud of estate government 300 people to bring the veloper said. hotel. “Everyone read- the project is already be- our association with fees and through project to completion, ing this letter knows hind schedule and said St. Kitts and Nevis” wages paid to work- developer Caribbean The developer said the that we are in a tough there was a previous and it has already ers at the site. All Galaxy Real Estate hotel will have 273 business and that our claim that the hotel made contributions told, our contribu- said. rooms with additional competitors will stop at was meant to be fin- to the local economy. tion amounted to villas. nothing to try to damage ished by the end of more than US $30 “This year, 300 local us,” the developer said. 2018. “That includes Million,” said the workers will be hired They added that there through sales in the company. to bring the Ramada by had been “incorrect Several reports in the China-based Galaxy project, through real LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:7 Youth programs emphasize education, volunteerism

Signifi cant develop- mental programmes to promote positivity, pa- triotism, and inspire behavioural change among the nation’s youth are planned in 2019 in the Ministries of Education and the Department of Youth Empowerment to realize goals outlined in the 2018-2021 Sector Strategy Plan.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Shawn Richards, the Department of Youth Empowerment will focus on three main goals. Youth Corps volunteers help clean up the beach

“Help communities of education at all levels. These include the Early helping teachers to bet- with the social inter- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Learners Programme at ter hone their skills and vention programming Honourable Shawn Richards predicts education will In 2019, Richards said the primary level and dif- competences,” Richards that will involve and make many advances during 2019 teachers at all levels will ferentiated instruction. concluded. “This en- benefi t youth; Explore continue to be exposed ables them to deliver greater avenues to im- department’s staffinitiatives is to ea-increase to timely and relevant “Such training pro- meaningful instruction prove youth economic ger to expand its service the percentage of chil- training programmes. grammes are aimed at to our nation’s youth. engagement; and foster to the public in 2019. dren who have access to greater awareness and He encouraged youth quality early childhood utilization of the youth groups or youth serving education. ambassador and youth agencies to contact the volunteer programmes.” department at 467-1393 “This includes the en- to request volunteers to hancement of training Volunteer Corps serve support their respective of offi cers at every level community initiatives. within the early childhood sector, the assess- Acting Director of Youth Signifi cant educational ment of the monitoring Empowerment, Pierre strides and evaluation frame- Liburd, said volun- works. Programmes teerism is at the core of During his New Year’s such as Reach the many success stories in address to the nation, Unreached, continue to St. Kitts and Nevis. Minister Richards said keep early childhood its ongoing goals are to well on track within the Liburd said the launch improve equitable ac- sector strategy plan. of the Volunteer Corps cess to and participation in February of last year in education at all levels. “At the primary and sec- was a top achievement Learning outcomes will ondary levels, greater for the department in be improved by strength- attention is being given 2018. More than 200 ening the quality and to ensure that more chil- volunteers in the pro- relevance of education dren advance through gramme have executed at all levels. At the same the education system or assisted with proj- time it will enhance plan- with meaningful edu- ects and activities over ning and management to cational experiences,” 11 months, including improve effi ciency and Richards explained. “At environmental cleanup eff ectiveness. the secondary level, for and beautifi cation cam- example, all students are paigns, renovation of The minister said notice- to advance to form fi ve elderly or diff erently-able progress has been instead of some students abled homes/facilities, made within those areas. exiting school at the end assemble and distribute of form four.” gift baskets/care pack- “For example, as it ages for society’s vul- relates to improv- A considerable amount nerable, home work ing equitable access of work was done in assistance, and serving to and participation in 2018 to improve learn- lunches. education at all levels,” ing outcomes. This was Richards said “there done by strengthening Liburd said the have been targeted the quality and relevance Page:8 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS

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CMYK LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:9 Nation-building provides job opportunities

Citizens and residents of his 4th Annual Gala Event advance and contribute to agenda. St. Kitts and Nevis need to on Jan. 5. our development.” seize all opportunities for For instance, fi ve local nation-building accord- The Honourable Prime To this end, since its elec- construction companies ing to Prime Minister, Dr. Minister said, “It is still tion victory in February have been awarded con- the Honourable Timothy true that, in the face of 2015, the Team Unity tracts to construct drains Harris. mounting challenges and Government has set out and sidewalks in Phase 1 the topsy-turviness of to empower local busi- of the Island Main Road Prime Minister Harris the times, we must as a nesses to be key players Project. Phase 1 started said this while delivering people look to our own in the advancement of in March 2018 with a welcome remarks during ingenuity and industry to the national development focus on the resurfacing Prime Minister, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris describes job opportunities off ered by nation-building.

and realignment of the due to investments made road network and the con- by the St. Christopher Air struction of sidewalks, and Sea Ports Authority extending east from the (SCASPA) to the tune of Robert L. Bradshaw approximately $34 mil- (RLB) International lion. In August 2018, Airport roundabout to work began on the resur- Keys Village and ex- facing of the main runway tending west from the at the RLB International Camps roundabout to Airport, and SCASPA is Challengers. also investing in the resurfacing of the taxiways Separate and apart from and apron. the $69 million invested in the island main road It is expected that these resurfacing project, the and other projects be- Team Unity Government ing implemented by the has mobilized $14 million Team Unity administra- for the paving of commu- tion would contribute nity roads. signifi cantly to sustaining growth and prosperity in The construction sector is the Federation of St. Kitts also being strengthened and Nevis.

The Charlestown Gallery 869-662-6778

Main St, Charlestown, obliquely opposite the Nevis Tourism Authority.

Open Sundays: 1pm to 5pm Monday -Thursday: 10am to 2pm Fridays: 10am to 12pm

CMYK Page:10 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:11 Parliament asked to act promptly on with Motions of No Conﬁ dence

Motions of no confi - a fi xed time or date for a reasonable time.” no confi dence in the dence should be a mat- the hearing of Motions Justice Lanns also con- Government is passed by ter of urgency and given of No Confi dence, cluded after consider- the National Assembly priority, according to Commonwealth tradi- ation of the arguments and the Prime Minister Prime Minister Dr. the tion dictates that they of the Parliamentary does not within three Honourable Timothy are heard as a matter Majority that the “court days resign from his or Harris, and Team Unity of urgency and with- has jurisdiction and that her offi ce or advise the will legislate Parliament in a reasonable time the rights which are im- Governor General to to avoid delays in hear- handed to the Clerk of plicit in section 52 (6) dissolve Parliament.” ing such motions. the National Assembly. had been violated by the failure of the Speaker The National Assembly “Three Motions of No In her Judgment (Re- to schedule the motion on December 24, Confi dence fi led be- issued November 13, of no confi dence for2018, saw the Motion tween 2012 and 2013 2017), Pearletta E. debate, and to be voted of No-Confi dence in never saw the light Lanns, High Court on without undue delay the Government of St. of day for debate in Judge (Ag) concluded and within a reasonable Kitts and Nevis brought Parliament,” a state- that “every elected time of the motion be- by the Leader of the ment from Dr. Harris member or elected ing handed to the clerk, Opposition, the Right said. “A Speaker of the representative in the or sent, or left at the Honourable Dr. Denzil hallowed chamber did National Assembly has Clerk’s offi ce.” Douglas, defeated. The not budge para nada to an implied right under failure of the Motion schedule them on the section 52 (6) of the Section 52 (6) of the of No Confi dence came Order Paper for debate Constitution of Saint Constitution of Saint on the heels of the 2019 and vote as a matter of Christopher and Nevis Christopher of Saint Budget, which was urgency and without un- to bring a motion of no Kitts and Nevis states overwhelmingly passed due delay. confi dence, and to have “the Governor General on Dec. 18 as a Vote that motion listed, de- shall remove the Prime of Confi dence in the “The fate of the bated and voted on with- Minister from of- Government. Federation of St. out delay and within fi ce if a resolution of Christopher (St. Kitts) and Nevis lay in abey- ance for over two years Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, and (26 months) while the Team Unity will legislate in Parliament to avoid delays in country was a spectacle hearing motions of no confi dence. of unprecedented tradi- Kitts and Nevis fi led byduring 2012 and 2013,” tion in the eyes of the Leader of Her Majesty’s Dr. Harris said. “The Commonwealth and Opposition, the Right former regime refused to the world. A parliamen- Honourable Dr. Denzil allow a debate and vote tary majority was side- Douglas, Prime Minister on the Motions of No lined and its Motions Harris noted the vast Confi dence even when it of No Confi dencecontrast between then was clear it did not com- against the former Dr. and now. The Motion mand the support of a Denzil Douglas-led of No Confi dence thatMajority of MPs. Administration seem- was fi led by the Leader ingly reduced to child’s of the Opposition “Yet with such an abom- play. Many in soci- on Dec. 11, and was inable record, they who ety were courageous scheduled, debated are now in Opposition to speak up. Others and voted on Dec. 24. called for an urgent de- maintained a deafen- bate on an ill-conceived ing silence. Democracy Speaker of the National Motion. We are commit- was on trial. But, that Assembly, the Hon. ted to a better way and is about to change with A Michael Perkins this includes observing legislation.” executed his respon- the principles of de- sibility on a Motion mocracy. We facili- In his New Year’s Day of No Confi dencetated in the Motion of No Message 2019, Dr. two weeks. Former Confi dence and it was Harris said, “We will Speaker Curtis Martin defeated, in fact becom- legislate on reasonable never scheduled the ing a vote of confi dence time for debating and Resolution in 26 months. in this government, in voting on Motions of what it has achieved and No Confi dence. “In No December one of in what it plans to do go- Parliament should be these sittings was de- ing forward on behalf of held hostage to the dic- voted to debate and vote our people. Democracy tates of creeping dicta- on the Motion of No is at an all-time high, torship evidenced prior Confi dence put byfi the rm and secure under to February 2015.” very group that refused Team Unity.” to table, debate and vote In referring to a Motion on three Motions of No Although the of No Confi dence in Confi dence submitted to Constitution of St. Kitts the Government of St. the National Assembly and Nevis does not give Page:12 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Another year and still no pier NRP –It is an eyesore

By Monique Washington (SIDF). The Minister EIA 43 days for issue love of humanity.” He in charge Hon. Alexis to be rectified. The called the Oualie Per Jeffers indicated US next date was sup- an “eyesore.” It has been two years $3.8 million was used posed to be before the since the Nevis Island to purchase the proper- 2018 Culturama festi- In November during Administration (NIA) ty and US $402,000 for val; however Minister the sitting of the NIA announced its proposed construction of 200ft of Jeffers said a pending2019 budget, Minister water taxi pier, comple- the pier. An additional tropical storm forced Jeffers noted that work tion dates have come US $6,035 million will the barge that contained on the NIA’s water taxi and gone, and there is be used to construct the prefabricated pier pier is expected to re- no sign about when it the rest of the pier. The to return to St. Maartin. sume shortly. He said will continue. contract was awarded that he was assured by to Secure Marine, The incomplete pier the contractor Secure The pier, which began based in St. Maarten. has also caused the Marine, based in St. in 2017, was supposed leader of the Nevis Maarten, that they to be completed ahead When completed, the Reformation Party would resume work on of the official opening T-shaped pier will Robelto Hector to the project within the of the St. Kitts Park be 300ft long. The voice his concern and next week. A comple- Hyatt in November Minister said that pier note that as Nevisians tion date was set for 2017. The construc- will meet the long-term enter 2019 with a num- December 15 2018. tion phases of the pier demands required by ber of projects, “none have met their share Oualie’s growing boat- have been completed.” Almost one month later of waves and in some ing industry. after the latest comple- cases, storms. Hector said for Nevis, tion date construction The pier was halted 2018 has been a year on the pier has not re- The EC $6 million lasted year because of “more style than sumed. The Observer project is financed of by an incomplete substance while a love was unable to reach the Sugar Industry Environmental Impact of publicity has taken Minister Jeffers. Diversification FundAssessment. It took precedence over a Phenomenal growth noted in new businesses

“Over the last four and 2018, business li- witnessing a 77 per- years, the growth in cences exceeded the cent increase in to- new businesses enter- 400 mark; in 2016, the tal cruise passenger ing the formal economy number of business li- spend in 2017/2018 has been phenomenal,” cences issued peaked (US $133.02 million). Prime Minister Dr. the at 490, the best record In 2014/2015 this fig- Honourable Timothy to date. ure was (US $75.30 Harris remarked dur- million). Source: 2018 ing his Jan. 5 Fourth In 2016, the top three Business Research & Annual Gala Event. new businesses formed Economic Advisors were taxi operator, (BREA) Report. “Net business for- passenger bus service mation has been at and snackette. Since the establish- its highest level un- ment of the Team der Team Unity,” Dr. In 2017, the top three Unity Government, Harris said. “For the new businesses were small businesses in St. first time in history, retail shops and stores Kitts and Nevis got a the number of busi- (except liquor), pas- boost from its Fresh ness licences issued senger bus service Start Programme. by the Inland Revenue and construction It was launched in Department exceeds contractor. September 2015. the 400 mark.” He Under Fresh Start, said the Federation has In 2018, the top three hundreds of applicants witnessed the largest new businesses were attained concession- numbers of jobs, work- retail shops and stores ary loans and techni- ers and social security (except liquor), snack- cal assistance from the contributors in the first ette, and taxi operator. Development Bank four years of the Team to start or expand Unity administration. Local taxi opera- their micro-, small- tors are sharing in and medium-sized In 2015, 2016, 2017 the fruits of growth businesses. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:13 NSSFC meets with stakeholders in Nevis

By Monique Washington designed to present Donald Cable, committee separately and strategies. It also government going a coordinated, holis- former Assistant to have a discussion includes social inter- forward. We cannot af- tic approach to deal- Commissioner of on crime. vention methodolo- ford to continue along The National Security ing with the criminal Police Joseph Liburd gies and strategies. the path of criminality Strategy Formulation threats confronting and Newrish Nital. Speaking at the So, it is very broad,” and antisocial behav- Committee (NSSFC), the federation. opening of the ses- he said. ior that we have been in an effort to combat On Wednesday, the sion, Astaphan gave suffering under,” he crime in the federa- The committee is committee met with the reasons for the Astaphan noted that said. tion met with stake- chaired by Dwyer Permanent Secretaries session. the information and holder for ideas and Astaphan. Other in Government, recommendation col- The committee is ex- recommendations members include the Christian “The remit is actually lected will be formu- pected to compile a during a visit to Nevis ECCB Governor and Evangelical to engage the stake- lated into a report that report of recommenda- on Wednesday, Jan 9. Timothy Antoine, Association, media, holders in both public will be handed over to tions that will form a Pastor Lincoln Hazel government depart- and private sectors the government in the national security strat- The Federal Ministry who was nominated ment heads, the and in society at large coming weeks. egy policy. That report of National Security by the Ministry of Concerned Citizens and to assist the fed- was initially expected launched the NSSFC Ecclesiastical Affairs,Movement (CCM) eral government with “We want to get the to be completed by on Sept 5 of last Errol Wilkinson and the Nevis a strategy for address- work done and get December. When com- year. The commit- who was nominat- Reformation Party ing national security the report into the pleted it is expected to tee forms part of the ed by the Chamber (NRP) and other issues. The remit that government so that go to Cabinet and will government’s bid to of Industry and members of the we have is very broad. this very pressing and shape the way the gov- establish a national Commerce, Michele public sector. Each It includes criminal critical matter can ernment fights crime security architecture, de la Coudray- Blake, group met with the justice methodologies be addressed by the at all levels. St. Paul’s Shooting leads to high speed police chase

By Loshaun Dixon 22-year-old Calvert shooting was reported process. They all re- high-speed car chase car was taken into Police Francis, 18-year-old just after 9 p.m. on ceived gunshot inju- custody for further in- Alvin Browne and a Jan. 7. Preliminary in- ries to their legs. The “They intervened to spection and processing. A shooting incident in male juvenile, all of vestigations revealed scene was processed halt the attack and a St. Paul’s that injured St. Paul’s. that the wounded trio by members of the number of shots were On Wednesday, Police three individuals led to was sitting on a wall Forensic Services fired at the car. The car indicated two suspects a high speed car chase The Police, follow- next to Lover’s Lane Unit and items of fled the scene and they were taken into custody between police and ing swift action by Alley in St. Paul’s, evidential value were gave chase, intercept- and are assisting with assailants on Monday officers on patrol in when a car stopped recovered,” a Police ing the vehicle in Christ investigations. evening. St. Paul’s were able next to them. statement said. Church. The occupants to “thwart an attack exited the vehicle and Two of the three vic- The three individu- by armed assailants “Two men exited the According to the re- made their escape on tims have since been als were taken to the on three young men car and opened fire lease the officers who foot.” released from the hos- JNF Hospital after Monday night.” on the group. They were patrolling the pital and one remains they were shot in ran down the alley area heard the shots It was noted that the warded in a stable con- their legs and have In a press statement in an effort to escape and responded to the scene at Christ Church dition at press time. been identified as the Police said the and got shot in the incident that led to a was processed and the Several arrested in New Year’s day shooting With no charges

By Monique Washington on New Year’s morn- The Observer was in- investigations, no one the police report, a car are being treated and are ing at 6 a.m. when formed the Liburds was charged. stopped next to the three warded in stable condi- they were attack by condition requires men, two men exited tion. Since the incident Ten days after Jelani unknown assailants. medical assistance out- In a similar incident, the car and opened fireoccurred, RSCNPF has Liburd and Keon Twenty-two year-old side of the Federation. RSCNPF was called on them. The victims revealed two persons Moore were shot and Moore of Bath and to a shooting inci- ran down the alley in are in custody and as- critically wounded 28-year-old Liburd of The Royal St. dent on Jan. 7. Three an effort to escape sisting and with investiga- while leaving a night- Craddock Road sus- Christopher and Nevis young men, 22-year- were shot in the pro- tions into a shooting club and entering a ve- tained several gunshot Police Force (RSCNPF) old Calvert Francis, cess. They all received incident that occurred hicle in Stoney Grove, wounds to the neck, Public Relations Officer 18-year-old Alvin gunshot injuries to their in St. Paul’s. Both men Nevis, no one has chest, across the head told The Observer on Browne and a juvenile, legs. were taken into custody been charged with the and stomach. Both are Thursday that although all of St. Paul’s St. Kitts on Jan. 8. As of press crime. warded in stable but several persons were were shot while sit- All three men were tak- time no one has been critical condition at taken into custody to as- ting on a wall in their en to the JNF Hospital charged. The shooting occurred Alexandra Hospital. sist the police with their village. According to in St. Kitts, where they Page:14 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Taiwan Embassy and ZIZ launch new TV series

By Loshaun Dixon TV series is like mak- the relationship being a journey to Taiwan. tween his organisa- It takes you through tion and Taiwan was The Republic of China the waves, the ups and “exceptional”. (Taiwan) has launched downs and you get to a new TV series in St. know our struggle and “The relationship be- Kitts and Nevis in a ways of life.” tween ZIZ and Taiwan partnership with state- has been an exceptional owned television sta- Ambassador Lee said one. ZIZ has benefi t- tion ZIZ. the TV show will give ted in the past through the people of St. Kitts material support to The series The New and Nevis a glimpse of meet our objective and World is a TV drama what it would be like to we have aff orded the that was fi lmed invisit Taiwan. embassy a platform to Taiwan and is slated showcase the beautiful to begin airing on ZIZ “We have built a very country of Taiwan to on Jan 17 and every good foundation to the citizens of St. Kitts Thursday thereafter. further deepen our re- and Nevis” lations and I am happy At a media briefi ng, today to produce a Galloway said the en- Ambassador to the Taiwanese TV series, tire federation of St. Republic of China His The New World, to all Kitts and Nevis has Excellency Tom Lee of you. It has 24 epi- benefi tted in one way thanked ZIZ for bring- sodes and if you watch other as a result of the ing what he described all the episodes it will work of Taiwan in the as a “wonderful” pro- be like you have been federation. Vere Galloway General Manager of Ziz gramme to St. Kitts and to Taiwan 24 times.” Nevis. He added the airing Ziz general manager of this new series was “Watching Taiwanese Vere Galloway said benefi cial for both ZIZ

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PHYSICAL PLANT SUPERVISOR VACANCIES AT BANANAS Behavioural Science Foundation seeks a mature St Kitts citizen, male or female, for the position of Physical Plant Supervisor. The successful candidate will oversee and assist with general maintenance and Full Time Kitchen Staff. Must have experience in a regular repair of the buildings, grounds, outdoor caging and fencing at two research sites between Molineux and Tabernacle. This person professional kitchen & split shift availability. will need to be able to communicate clearly and work effectively with existing staff, and will also be required to organize the work flow to Full Time Handy Man/ Gardener. Must have ba- meet variable demands. Basic literacy, physical fitness and a valid St Kitts driver’s license are also required. Salary will be commensurate sic woodworking & plumbing skills. Electrical skill a with experience and skills. Please address applications or queries to the attention of Heather Hotchin, Box 428 St Kitts, or by telephone plus. Duties include looking after dogs on property. (465-7280) or e-mail ([email protected]). Call Gillian at 469-1891 Page:16 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Bus drivers rushed to hospital following collision

At about 10 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 4, Tree; backhoe PA6139, owned and Dieppe Bay. H107 collided with the condition. 911 operators received a report of driven by Mahendranauth Balgobin backhoe and HA433 steered off the a traffic accident in the Whiteof GateCane Garden, Nevis; and motor backhoe, lost control, ran off the roadThe scene was photographed by offi- area in Dieppe Bay and the informa- omnibus HA433, owned and driven and flipped over several times. cers from the Forensic Crime Lab and tion was relayed to the Dieppe Police by Kelvon Hanley of Buckley’s measurements and the damage were Station. Estate. Hanley was thrown from the vehicle recorded. Both buses were extensive- in the process. Flanders was treated ly damaged. The driver of the back- The accident involved three vehicles, Both omnibuses were travelling and discharged from the JNF Hospital hoe was not injured and the backhoe a motor omnibus H107, owned and from Dieppe Bay to St. Paul’s, while for his injuries, however, Hanley re- had minor damage. driven by Curtis Flanders of Halfway the backhoe was travelling towards mains warded in a critical, but stable

Two passenger buses were extremely damaged and their driver’s sent to the hospital following an accident on Island Main road near White Gate . (Photo by Kenichi Serino) Ministry of Health denies food shortage claims at JNF Hospital

The Ministry of Health has been made aware of one of its more valuable partners. a mischievous electronic circular, by an unnamed source, claiming that there is insufficiency of food The Ministry of Health has confirmed there are stores at the JNF General Hospital as a result of no outstanding funds owed to the company by the outstanding funds owed to Ram’s Trading Ltd. Ministry. A ministry release said, “It is pellucidly clear that there isn’t a modicum of truth in these The Executive Management of the JNF General spurious claims. The Ministry of Health wishes to Hospital deems these claims are spurious and ab- advise all clients and the general public that the surd. The claim has been condemned as false and JNF General Hospital, as the Federation’s premier an attempt to foster negative sensationalism and health institution, always has adequate food stock to to bring the institution and its administrators into meet the dietary needs of its in-patient population. disrepute. “Moreover, the institution purchased an increased The Ministry of Health has affirmed that Ram’s quantity of food supplies during the Christmas and Trading Ltd enjoys a very good relationship with New Year’s season to ensure patients are served JNF General Hospital. traditional Christmas meals inclusive of ham, tur- key, and sorrel according to their prescribed dietary Ram’s Trading, a major food retailer and wholesal- regime. This is done in an effort to bring cheer to er, has strongly condemned the blatant and glaring patients who would have normally enjoyed such attempt to fracture the business relationship with meals at home had they not been hospitalised, as is The Ministry of Health has denied claims of a food customary during the joyous season.” shortage at JNF General Hospital. LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:17 Questions still linger almost one year on from Pemberton death

By Loshaun Dixon

Almost a year after the body of his son was found in a secluded area near the airport, a father is still seeking answers into the death of his son. Nigel Arthurton, the father of 23-year-old Shaquille Pemberton whose body was dis- covered Jan 27, 2018, is still questioning how his son died, if he was killed and whether the killers are still free. “It is almost a year now since the passing of my son and my understanding is that the case has been closed and no one has said anything at all to me since so I wanted to know what is going on,” said Arthurton.

On the night in question Shaquille Pemberton was killed in January of last year. His father is still looking for Pemberton’s body was answers around his death. found in an area near the RLB International Alexandrov had revised brutally murdered citing has he been dealing with Airport by a passer-by his opinion and ruled wounds to his chest and the lack of closure over who reported it to the that the method of death the disappearance of his the death of his son. St. Kitts and Nevis Fire is undetermined. cell phone and wallet. and Rescue Services. “I am just trying to be They, in turn, then re- The second release Almost one year on strong and trying to ported it to the Royal St. stated, “While Mr. since his son’s death focus and keep a good Christopher and Nevis Pemberton’s death was Arthurton believes the head rather than to be Police. due, in part, to acute case has been closed as thinking about some- pulmonary failure due to he has not heard from thing like that.” Initially, police indicated hemorrhagic viral myo- the police since. that they were not treat- carditis and pneumonia, The discontented father ing the matter as a ho- the forensic pathologist “After they said it was did not rule out taking micide and in an initial is of the view that there not natural causes I legal steps to seek justice release confirmed that are other inconsisten- want to know what it is for his son. the death of Pemberton cies surrounding the because they have not was by natural causes manner (mode) of said anything to me. Just “I would have to talk following an autopsy death that merit further like that I lost a son with to my lawyer and ask a done by forensic pa- investigation.” no explanation, no an- question about it. The thologist, Dr. Valery swers and i just want to only thing that I could Alexandrov. The police at that time know what is going on,” say, that I could have indicated that based on Arthuton said. some kind of answer to The release stated that the new determination is why the doctor had to Dr. Alexandrov ruled they are continuing in- Arthurton said he become out with that kind that the death was due vestigations and will be lieves the police held of report about natural to acute pulmonary fail- seeking the support of some in connection to causes before he com- ure due to hemorrhagic the public to assist with the incident but later re- pleted the full examina- viral myocarditis and their enquiries. leased them. tion rather than sending pneumonia. out something first and In an interview with The “They never told me then having to change Later that week the po- Observer in February anything about it they it.” lice, in a second release last year, Arthurton told said they have questions said that following futher this publication that he over it.” The Observer “All in all i am just ask- testing in Trinidad, Dr. believed his son was asked Arthurton how ing a question.” Page:18 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Community speaks out on “notorious” bus drivers after accident

A sign outside St. Paul’s primary school warnes motorists of a pedestrian crossing. Locals have complained about bus drivers who speed along the road

By Kenichi Serino and curb the speeding some that something should more careful while he “The accident. It’s sad motor omnibus HA433, Loshaun Dixon drivers are known for. be done. “It’s too much said the speeding driv- to see.” owned and driven now,” Cains said. ers are usually younger. by Kelvon Hanley of “The buses drivers are “There are passengers In addition to speed While most members Buckley’s Estate. Images of last week’s notorious,” said St. in those buses. They’re cameras or police. He of the community accident between two Paul’s Primary School human beings.” believes that better edu- complain about buses, Both omnibuses were buses, which shocked principal John Gumbs. cation of driver’s could it’s not only the buses travelling from Dieppe the Federation, were “The guys do a lot of Another resident also be key to getting them which speed. In 2017, Bay to St. Paul’s, while no surprise to St. Paul’s speeding.” articulated that in the af- to slow down includ- an accident in the area the backhoe was trav- community members ternoons when the chil- ing working with bus resulted when a car col- elling towards Dieppe who say some driv- Though Friday’s ac- dren are leaving school associations. lided with a tree, com- Bay. H107 collided ers often speed on that cident took place some is when it is at its worst. pletely destroying the with the backhoe and stretch of road endan- distance from the “Education is always vehicle and killing one HA433 steered off the gering public safety- school, it was on the One local resident helpful,” he said. person in the car. In an- backhoe, lost control, -including the safety same stretch of road who did not want to other occupant, report- ran off the road and of children at a nearby children have to regu- be named told The Many of the residents edly a minor, was sent flipped over several school. larly cross to attend Observer: “Just come also believe that more to hospital. times. class. here from 3:00 p.m. to police patrols or sur- The accident took place 6:00 p.m. and you will veillance cameras could Last Friday’s accident Hanley was thrown on Friday and involved Gumbs said that while see them flying pass the deter speeding on the happened in the morn- from the vehicle in the two buses which were the school employs school. A speed bump is road. There could be ing. Police said at about process. Flanders was allegedly speeding crossing guards, they definitely needed by the some evidence for this. 10 a.m., 911 opera- treated and discharged when one of them col- are only present during school.” In the Mexican state of tors received a report from the JNF Hospital lided with a backhoe. school hours. Jalisco, road accidents of a traffic accidentfor in his injuries, how- Both buses were ex- Many residents said that were a serious problem. the White Gate area in ever, Hanley remains tensively damaged and “They’re not there 100 speed bumps were one The implementation Dieppe Bay and the in- warded in a critical, but both drivers injured. percent of the time, so possible solution for of speed cameras cut formation was relayed stable condition. One driver has since for that reason we have the speeding. However, the number of fatali- to the Dieppe Police been released from hos- some concerns for our Gumbs said he was wor- ties by 40 percent after Station. The scene was pho- pital, while the other is children,” Gumbs said. ried that while speed one year. Some studies tographed by officers in a critical but stable bumps may slow down from the United States The accident involved from the Forensic condition. Local resident Mary buses and cars, they have also indicated three vehicles, a motor Crime Lab and mea- Cains said it was “com- would also slow down that speed cameras can omnibus H107, owned surements and the The Observer visited mon knowledge” that emergency vehicles cut the number of road and driven by Curtis damage were recorded. St. Paul’s locals who buses are speeding on such as police, ambu- deaths and injuries. Flanders of Halfway Both buses were exten- say they worry about the stretch of road. “It’s lances and fire trucks. Tree; backhoe PA6139, sively damaged. The the buses on the long fun to them.” Gumbs said he saw the owned and driven driver of the backhoe stretch of road and be- Gumbs said that not all aftermath of Friday’s by Mahendranauth was not injured but lieve the government Like many in the com- driver’s speed. Older accident and the scene Balgobin of Cane the backhoe had minor should take action to munity, she believes drivers in particular are was very troubling. Garden, Nevis; and damage.t LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:19 Second MUA student passes

By Monique Washington noted that the con- clusings regarding the origins of the suspected A second Medical gas leak could not be University of the provided to the FBI. Americas student who was involved in an ap- “There were no known parent gas explosion indications that either has lost her life. victim was targeted, or that either victim in- A family member, tentionally caused the Martina Mel confirmed blast. Examination of on January 9 via a the scene did not reveal GoFundMe page that any evidence of a de- 31-year-old Gayane structive device or il- Balasanyan had suc- licit activity that could cumbed to her injuries. result in an explosion.”

“After over three long “The condition of the months of fighting stove burner control for her life, Gayane knob and/or gas supply succumbed to her in- line present the pos- juries and left us on sibility that propane 01/07/2018. Words can- unintentionally leaked not express the pain and Gayane Balasanyan Nada Khalil into the apartment. shock this has caused,” If initial reporting is wrote Mel. corroborated, the vic- that was being saved for section of the apartment them to the Alexandra The local fire officers tim’s attempt to light a “She was a truly special her future treatment will building in Potworks Hospital for treatment. handed over their re- cigarette was the likely and remarkable young now fully go towards in October when an Kahlil was air-lifted the post on the fire -tosource po that led to the woman, whose memory her transportation and explosion took place, following morning to lice who then requested blast and subsequent will be cherished and funeral services,” she destroying that area and a U.S. hospital, while the help of the Federal fire.” honuored the rest of said extensively damaging Balasanyan was air-lift- Bureau of Investigation. our days. On behalf of adjoining sections. ed a few days later. Both After investigations The funeral service the Balasanyan family, Nada Khalil, 28, and students were burnt over the FBI’s findings- for Balasanyan con will be thank you all for your 31-year-old Gayane The two students sus- 80 percent of their bod- firmed those held ofon Januarylocal 12 in generosity and support Balasanyan were both tained severe thermal ies. In late November investigators. California. during this most dif- fifth semester students atburns. A fellow student 2018, Khalil suc- ficult time. The moneythe MUA and were in a immediately transported cumbed to her injuries. However, the FBI report Brady says policing efforts paid off in 2018

Although it was a trying and the assistance of skills. Policing is a year for crime fighting the Regional Security 24-hour job, not 16 or efforts, data gathered Service, no homicides eight.” to date suggested that were recorded in final the number of crimes months of the year,” Acting Commissioner reported were down Brady said. “However, Brandy told the troops and the detection rate it is not a time to be- that the Force would was set to equal or sur- come comfortable or place even more em- pass the year before, complacent. phasis on community according to Acting policing in 2019. Commissioner of Police “Let us learn from the Hilroy Brandy. In his efforts of the last quar- “Policing with the com- remarks to the troops ter. We worked together munity is about creat- at the Commissioner’s successfully as a team ing real participation New Year’s Lecture where our presence was and a working relation- this week Brandy felt especially in hot ship between the Police thanked Police Officersspots and overall our and the community. A for their hard work last operations were consis- valuable partnership year which concluded tent. If we are to realise where policing not only with clear results. continued success in reflects and responds to 2019, we must address the needs of the com- “Although the number areas in our discipline munity, but where the of homicides was the and communications, community plays a vig- same as 2017, thanks especially improving orous role in delivering to Police Officersour internal and ex- viable solutions.” Acting Commissioner of Police Hilroy Brandy says the number of crimes reported in working extra duty ternal communication 2018 were down and the detection rate was set to equal or surpass the year before. Page:20 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Dr. Harris thanks colleagues during Prime Minister’s

Officials attending the Prime Minister’s Jan. 5 New Year’s Gala, (left to right) Attorney General Hon Vincent Byron; Senior Gala Minister, Hon Vance Amory; Hon Wendy Phipps; Hon. Lindsay Grant; Deputy Prime Minister Hon Shawn Richards; Prime Minister Dr. the Hon Timothy Harris; Rt. Hon Sir Dennis Byron; Hon Ian Patches Liburd; and Hon Eugene Hamilton.

“The Executive arm of needs all hands-on deck schools, our churches, unity has been a long and extreme tribalism of some necessary component the government will and my government will our community groups, often fitful struggle to give political parties, where of good governance, the continue to govern on support the efforts of all our Parliament and our meaningful substance their narrow and self - in- concept of accountability behalf of the people,” our citizens to excel and Government. We are re- to the underlying desire terested agendas take pre- emphasizes the need for Prime Minister of St. do well.” minded of Psalm 133: of our people to tap into cedence over the interest leadership to be answer- Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the How pleasant it is for our potential and come of citizens in general.” able for its stewardship, Honourable Timothy Dr. Harris touted his brethren to dwell together together towards a com- thus strengthening good Harris, said at the Prime Government of National in Unity,” Prime Minister mon purpose,” Sir Dennis He suggested that an anti- governance and empow- Minister’s Jan. 5 New Unity as a model to be Harris added. said. ‘Caribbean unity has dote to political tribalism ering stakeholders and Year’s Gala. patterned in the Caribbean been a historical struggle is the coming together of beneficiaries alike.” region; he said “political The Prime Minister’s since slavery to the West various political group- The prime minister pundits have marvelled Gala was attended by Indies Federation (1958- ings but that this requires Sir Dennis referred to thanked his tripartite co- that we have been a mod- Governor General, His 62) to Independence; “compromise rather than the history of several alition government for el of how unity govern- Excellency Sir S. W. and the signing of many factionalism” and “must coalition governments its hard work and “the ments ought to work.” Tapley Seaton, Cabinet regional treaties that es- therefore be the modus in the region, includ- excellent delivery of the Ministers, Members tablished the Caribbean operandi of successful ing the current tripar- people’s agenda outlined He said that the com- of the Diplomatic and Free Trade Association, coalitions. tite, People’s Action in our Manifesto dubbed ing together of three Consular Corps, senior Caribbean Community, Movement, Concerned “Prosperity for all,” rival political parties, government officials, andthe Caribbean Single “Even in domestic poli- Citizens Movement, while expressing his ap- namely, the People’s a wide-cross section of Market and the Economy; tics the idea of unity and People’s Labour Party preciation to the people Action Movement, the society. The guest speaker the Caribbean Court merging of various po- which comprise the Dr. for their support of his Concerned Citizen’s was retired President of Justice; and the litical groupings seem to Harris-led Team Unity administration. Movement and the of the Caribbean Court Organization of Eastern provide an antidote to this Administration. People’s Labour Party, of Justice, the Right Caribbean States. tribalism,” Sir Dennis “I must thank the people which he leads, was “not Honourable Sir Charles said. “Coalition forma- He reiterated that “the of St. Kitts and Nevis out of political conve- Michael Dennis Byron, a “For those who think tion or building is a pro- success of unity is that it for the support they have nience necessitated by the St. Kitts and Nevis nation- that it is so difficult cessfor of us organizing parties only works with compro- given me as prime min- arithmetic of general elec- al. Guest performer was to unite as a people and collectively in pursuit mise and accountability ister and the other min- tion outcomes” but what Roy “Gramps” Morgan, region, let us not forget of a common goal. At so that in the end the con- isters of the Team Unity was in the best interest Jamaican Reggae artist that CARICOM is one the heart of any unity- cept is greater than the Administration,” Dr. of the country “to share and instrumentalist. of the longest surviving driven political coalition individuals who com- Harris said. “The support a common vision for the integration movements is the central concept of prise it. of a government by its development of this great Sir Dennis highlights a throughout the develop- good governance. As a people plays a big part in country that we all love need for unity ing world,” Sir Dennis its ability to make the de- and cherish.” said. liverables possible for this Sir Dennis spoke about wonderful Federation. We “Although there are chal- the need for unity and He called for a deeper were pleased by the out- lenges to be faced and the urgency of stamping unity at the national and come of a scientific poll many miles yet to go, out all forms of division, regional level with respect conducted by CADRES, unity must pervade every including political tribal- to improving democracy, which showed that the facet of the nation’s life ism on a national and re- although he highlighted vast majority of people in including from sports and gional level. Some of Sir that “the Commonwealth St. Kitts and Nevis pre- culture to respect and tol- Dennis’s notable accom- Caribbean has a high ferred the leadership of erance for one another, he plishments include being incidence of political sta- Team Unity. The majority said, while calling on all a Judge of the Eastern bility and a solid record of persons indicated that to put the country’s motto Caribbean Supreme of respect for democratic we deserve another term. of “country above self” Court from 1996-2006; principles.” into practice. President of the United “Tonight, I salute all citi- Nations International “Elections are not merely zens and residents of St. “Unity of purpose must Criminal Tribunal for a contest of visions and Kitts and Nevis for stand- drive our nation to new Rwanda from 2007- policies, but an opportu- ing firm with Team Unity heights of greatness. 2011; and President of nity to improve the well- and I pledge of behalf of Unity must be our man- the Caribbean Court of being of all citizens,” Sir Sir Charles Michael Dennis Byron (right), a legal lumi- our government to work tra and modus operandi. Justice from 2011-2018. Denis said. “This latter nary and man of many accomplishments in the judicial always on behalf of all Unity must be felt in objective is not always field with Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Har- the people. Our country all our institutions: our “The historical quest for obvious because of the ris at the Gala at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort Ballroom LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:21 Not a citizen, but was there acknowledgement of allegiance? Douglas passport case moves forward

By Loshaun Dixon grant Dr. Douglas a diplomatic passport by the Harris administration Dr Denzil Douglas’ hav- led another Caribbean ing a Dominican dip- leader to grant him that lomatic passport does courtesy. not make him a citizen of that country, but is it “One of the points I real- an acknowledgement of ly wanted to make is the allegiance? reason why Dr. Douglas was put in this position That is what the Eastern with the diplomatic Carribbeaan Supreme passport was because Court in Basseterre this Prime Minister and will decide after mov- this minister of Foreign ing forward with a case Affairs refused in accor- brought against the for- dance with protocol to mer Prime Minister of give a diplomatic pass- St. Kitts and Nevis and port to former prime current Leader of the minister and Leader of Opposition Dr. Denzil the Opposition,” said Douglas regarding the Astaphan. latter’s use of a diplomatic passport from “When Dr. Douglas Dominica. explained the situation to the Prime Minister The decision was made of Dominica he was by High Court Judge, astounded and disap- His Lordship Justice pointed. As a result of Trevor Ward QC in that depravation he was the case brought by given [the Dominican Attorney General the passport]. Had the com- Hon. Vincent Byron mon courtesy been giv- against Douglas. Dr. Denzil Douglas exits court house after a hearing regarding his Dominican passport en to the former prime minister, we would not Judge Ward asked all be here today.” parties involved in the qualified to be electedDr. Douglas’ counsel being in possession of submission and a right case to submit their or appointed as a mem- Anthony Astaphan. a Dominican diplomatic of reply one week later. Astaphan commented summaries after which ber if he is by virtue of passport does not neces- the passport had to he will announce a date his own act under any The first expert wit - sarily make Dr. Douglas After the adjournment, say Dr. Douglas was for the case to resume. acknowledgment of ness on the stand was a Dominica citizen. Astaphan explained a Dominican because allegiance, obedience Reginald Armour a to media how the case it was a default set- Attorney General or adherence to a for- Trinidad and Tobago at- Gerald Burton a would be defended. ting when an appli- Byron is asking the eign power or state,” torney who while being Dominican Attorney cant did not declaring High Court to declare said Attorney General questioned by Astaphan was next called to the “Our case is a very citizenship. that Dr. Douglas has Byron. indicated that at the stand and questioned simple one, we con- vacated his seat in the time of the applica- by Mendes, who admit- tend that the diplomatic “We had evidence from National Assembly However, Dr. Douglas tion for the passport by ted that a diplomatic passport was given to Gaston Harris who by holding and using continues to insist that Dr. Douglas he did not passport is the same as Dr. Douglas as a mat- was instrumental in a diplomatic passport despite holding the expect Douglas to be a a normal passport given ter of professional and the implementation of of the Commonwealth Dominican diplomatic Dominican citizen. to Dominican citizens, personal courtesy,” said the passport system,” of Dominica diplo- passport, he is only a cit- except for the use of the Astaphan. “He applied Astaphan said. “He matic passport. The izen of St. Christopher Armour said that it word diplomatic. for it [the passport] said the default setting Constitutional Motion and Nevis. was for the court to as required under the does that automatically. also seeks an injunction determine if it was an Mendes also admit- regulations and did not Astona Browne who to restrain Dr. Douglas In court, Dr. Douglas important factor if Dr. ted that the use of the declare his Dominican was part of the Ministry from taking part in and Byron were seated Douglas labels himself passport by Dr. Douglas citizenship. At no time, of National Security the proceedings of the side-by-side and could a St. Christopher and while travelling would even when he traveled said the same thing. The National Assembly. be seen having con- Nevis citizen when he fall under the protection with his regular passport Dominica Ministry of versations as the court travels. of Dominica. or with the diplomatic Foreign Affairs said Dr. Section 28 (1) of the proceeded. Expert passport he always de- Douglas did not acquire Constitution of St. witnesses on the mat- Next, Justin Simon, Justice Ward adjourned clared his nationality citizenship and because Christopher and Nevis ter brought by legal a former Antigua and following Burton’s as St. Christopher and he did not declare citi- and Section Six (6) of counsel representing Barbuda Attorney appearance with Dr. Nevis.” zenship the default set- the National Assemblies the Attorney General General was grilled Douglas’ team, giv- ting put Dominica in. Act both provide that Douglas Mendes were by Astaphan and ing the defence until Astaphan further de- “a person shall not be cross examined by also agreed that Jan. 25 to file writtenclared that refusal to “You heard the expert Page:22 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS RFHL promises no lay-offs for Scotiabank acquisition

Kenichi Serino discuss the bank’s purchase and to obtain regulatory approval for Offi cials from Republic Scotiabank’s operations Financial Holdings in St. Kitts and Nevis. Limited (RFHL) have Discussing Republic Financial Holding’s Scotiabank acquisition (left to right) David Parks, Scotiabank’s Managing promised that none RFHL Advice Financial Director for the Eastern Caribbean; Ms. Sherelle Hobson, Director in the Offi ce of the Prime Minister; Ronald Harford, of Scotiabank 6,000 Company Limited the Chairman of Republic Financial Holdings Limited; Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of St. Kitts and Nevis, employees across the (AdFIN ) Principal Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris; Brendan King, Scotiabank’s Senior Vice President of International Banking; Mrs. Eastern Caribbean Advisor Ian De Souza Hilary Hazel, the Financial Secretary in the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, and Ian De Souza, Principal Advisor at Currency Union ECCU) made his assurances Advice Financial Company Limited (AdFIN). will be laid-off follow- about the jobs to Prime ing their purchase of the Minister Hon Dr member of Scotiabank remain whole.” St. Kitts and Nevis, St. opened its fi rst offi ce in Canadian-based bank. Timonthy Harris and will be displaced,” De Lucia, and St. Vincent Port of Spain, Trinidad, commited to welcoming Souza said. “They will Scotiabank Senior and the Grenadines. with the establishment Senior representa- all Scotiabank staff into not be aff ected in anyVice President of of Colonial Bank in tives of RFHL and the Republic Group. form or fashion. Their International Banking King stated that 1837. It has branches in Scotiabank met with remuneration will Brendan King also as- Scotiabank and RFHL Grenada and St. Lucia federation offi cials“Not oneto single staff sured the well-being “share the same core of both employees and values,” and added , Since 2001, RFHC customers. “Our reputation is very has fi nanced over US important to us.” $268 million in support “It was very important of signifi cant nation- to us that our custom- “It is very necessary to building projects across ers and employees be protect our reputation,” the Caribbean; this sum handled with care,” Harford said. “We will includes US $7.4 mil- King explained. “This practice those high stan- lion for the Carifesta was important in order dards that Scotiabank Housing Development to ensure that there is no has practiced.” in St. Kitts in 2005. disruption of any kind.” Harford said RFHL “The future of these is- The RFHL delegation is is very skilled at anti- lands is bright,” Harford comprised of Chairman, money laundering and told Prime Minister Ronald Harford and knows Scotiabank’s Harris. Souza and Scotiabank customer procedures. was represented by He said RFHL has cor- “We are seeing an infl ux King and Managing respondent banking of high-end tourism and Director for the Eastern relationships with an I see you’re ahead of Caribbean, David Parks. extensive range of ma- the game,” Harford told Dr. Harris was sup- jor international banks Dr. Harris. “It [high-end ported at the meeting in Canada, the United tourism] has brought the by Mrs. Hilary Hazel, States, the United executive jets and the the Financial Secretary Kingdom, Europe and mega-yachts to you.” in the Government of elsewhere. St. Kitts and Nevis, and Harford commended Ms. Sherelle Hobson, Harford said the acqui- Prime Minister Harris Director in the Offi sitionce of would create “a on his expert manage- the Prime Minister. strong regional champi- ment of the economy. on” with US $15 billion Last November, RFHL in assets up from US “Based on the state of announced that it had en- $10.5 billion. Profi tsthe roads and infrastruc- tered into an agreement would also increase, ture that he has seen to acquire Scotiabank’s post-acquisition, from while here, as well as operations in Guyana, US $198 million to US the high level of con- St. Maarten and the $270 million. struction,” Harford con- Eastern Caribbean ter- cluded. “There appears ritories of Anguilla, The Republic Group has to be lot of faith in the Antigua and Barbuda, served the Caribbean future of your country.” Dominica, Grenada, for 181 years, having LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:23 From the Supervisor of Elections: Issue 77: The Next Election Date

The question has been coming fast- electoral offi ce emanating from cer- registration activity; with only er and from all quarters: when will tain areas. 86 persons registering during the the next election be called? The period. answer continues to be that I do not I wish to re-assure the public that know; that that call belongs almost the Electoral Offi ce continues to By the 31st January, the 2019 exclusively to the Prime Minister; do all in its power to ensure a level Annual Register of Voters would be and even more so now that the playing fi eld. published, and November 2018 data Motion of No Confi dence failed in will be included. This will be the Parliament Had it passed, it would We are at another end of the 2018 revised Register along with all have set a clock in motion. It’s his 2018 electoral year – that is from the monthly revised registrants. Be call, not mine. My responsibility December 2017 to November 2018. on the look-out! is to be ready whenever the call is It culminates with the publication made. But a very confi dent Dr.arrisof the Annual Revised Register of that 45,265 persons are now eligible To those persons who are asking recently indicated that he has until Voters. For that Register, there were to vote should the election be called about the elections, let me use this August 2020 to decide. 43,477 registered voters. Twenty- tomorrow as the list would have to opportunity to advertise the need six percent (26%) or 11,364 voters be refi ned by removing the names for electoral workers. We will While the interest in the election were from Nevis and 32,113 (74%) of persons who died during the pe- need Returning Offi cers, Presiding is encouraging, I am uncertain were in St Kitts. riod under review. Offi cers and Poll Clerks. We will whether it is a “rearing to go” fac- need drivers and runners. Training tor or a curiousity factor in whether Since that period, and excluding The most active month of the period and screening will be conducted. the system, after the aberrations of November 2018 which is not yet in any constituency was the 50 per- The actual number of workers need- 2015, has recovered suffi ciently to fi nalized), a total of 1,697 personssons who registered in November ed will be fi nally determined after conduct proper elections. Such a successfully registered, 376 (or 2017 in Constituency No 9 (St the election call is made. Interested concern, I believe, is based in part 22%) in Nevis and the remaining Johns, Nevis). But even so, it was persons can register at the electoral on the shenanigans emerging out 1,321 (78%) in St Kitts. November only the 3rd most active constitu- offi ces in either island. of the latest US elections, in part 2017 and August 2018 were par- ency, after No 1 (East Basseterre) from the withdrawn petition after ticularly busy with 12% each of and No 8 (Cayon/St Peters) St Join us in ensuring one man one the “test” of December 2017, and in all registrations – both St Kitts and Kitts where 229 persons each reg- vote takes place in the right place; part from the unfounded and untrue Nevis were very busy. I must warn istered. By contrast, Constituency and that fairness is done to all. comments about the integrity of the however, that this does not mean 10, Gingerland, recorded the least Harris commits to OKC and youth of St. Peters

By Loshaun Dixon fi rst individual from St. his gains on the field, is part of the devel- Kitts and Nevis to play Harris also hosts opment and they are St. Kitts and Nevis in- in Major League Soccer young footballers from aiming to groom them ternational footballer (MLS) in the USA. St. Peters on weekend into respectable young Atiba Harris has com- He plied his trade for in a football develop- men and women. mitted his future to the Real Salt Lake, Chivas ment as part of his Oklahoma City Energy USA, Colorado Rapids, committment to help- “We started a year FC after signing a new Vancouver Whitecap, ing the athletes from ago after my stint in contract with the fran- San Jose Earthquakes his community. Mexico.I had a few chise following one and FC Dallas over months on the island season. two stints. He has “I always look to give so I was able to do played 276 matches in back because growing more with them.” Last season he played the MLS since 2006. up, wasn’t always that for Oklahoma City easy to get opportuni- He also noted that he Energy after 12 years in Harris is also the cap- ties and I was able to is eager for the St. the MLS and made 14 tain of the Saint Kitts get the opportunity Kitts and Nevis team appearances and help and Nevis national to become a soccer to qualify for the Gold keep fi ve clean sheets team, having scored player,” Harris said. Cup where he just signed a 10 goals and earning ‘There are many kids new contract for another 40 caps for the Sugar who are talented but “As a nation of over year. “We love it here,” Boyz. He scored a hat- can’t afford to prog- 50,000 it would be a Harris said after upping rick for the Sugar Boyz ress...So as a founda- huge accomplishment his contract. in a 10-nil rout of St. tion we are trying to and we are one game Martin in Anguilla last offer that support of away from doing that. “From the get-go, I felt Atiba Harris October. these kids and give We are confident and comfortable and happy. them an opportunity we’re hoping that on That’s the most impor- City is really open, right one.” Harris was also nomi- and a path way to that day next March tant thing. I’m happy friendly and welcom- nated for Concacaf reach their goals.” we can celebrate with and my family is happy. ing. I think the decision Harris, who is originally male defender of the friends and family.” Everyone in Oklahoma to stay here was the from St. Peters, was the year. In addition to He said that the sport Page:24 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Douglas passport case moves forward CONT’D evidence, you can make proceedings. which has become part and I believe that it was being tested. there was acknowl- your own judgement,” of his very nature.” important that we un- edgement of alle- Astaphan said. “It is “I think the case is go- derstand all this is hap- “The constitution said giance Byron said the clear that all the experts, ing as we anticipated,” Dr. Douglas slammed pening because of the you have to show an use of it confi rms the including those repre- said Dr. Douglas. “I Dr. Harris for the move vindictiveness of Dr. acknowledgement, have acknowledgement. senting the Attorney have always said that it nothing he had not done Harris in refusing to pro- an allegiance it does not General that the docu- is a pity that taxpayer’s the same thing to the vide a diplomatic pass- say at all in the consti- “Dr. Douglas admits mentation revealed to money is being wasted former prime minister port to a former head of tution that you have to that he signed the form them that every time in this way, when in of St. Christopher and government as Leader swear an allegiance. that allowed him to the Dr. Douglas traveled he our hospitals there are Nevis or his predecessor of the Opposition. Dominican passport declared his citizenship patients who are being Dr. the Rt. Excellent and “Having accepted and he accepted it and he to be St. Christopher under-serviced because Rt. Hon. Sir Kennedy Dr. Douglas noted that used the passport, Dr. used it and that is the and Nevis. It is regret- of the lack of essential A. Simmonds. he and his team are op- Douglas has not denied acknowledgement. The table for a former prime drugs for those who timistic about the out- that. He has fi led in the use of it is the acknowl- minister to have to go are critically ill and for “I think our citizens come of the case. court that he has vis- edgement of his use of through this kind of ha- those who are acutely of St. Christopher and ited seven countries at it; having used it he ac- rassment, but we will and chronically ill. This Nevis should realise “Of course we are very least ten times using the knowledges the protec- see what happens at the is an abuse of taxpayer’s the type of person who optimistic in the sense Dominican diplomatic tion of the Dominican end of the case.” money and is part of the is now in the leadership that I am not a citizen passport and the case is passport. political charade that of our country. I gave of Dominica and I never having use that passport Dr. Douglas chimed Dr. Harris is pursuing it Sir. Kennedy a diplo- pretended to be one.” he falls under the pro- “The court has to decide in that he was pleased is a vendetta and is part matic passport when tection of Dominica and one way or the other with the morning’s of his vindictiveness the time was required Mendes refused to com- using the case precedent that the case that we ment on the case, noting of Joyce in England in have presented is a very he does not speak about 1944 in the House of strong case and that us- cases that are still on- Lords case we say that ing the precedent of the going. Byron gave an is an acknowledgement House of Lords...there overview of the day’s of allegiance.” is a very strong belief proceedings stating that on our case that we will Dr. Douglas being a cit- Questioned on whether be successful in this izen of Dominica is not it could be proven that matter,” he reiterated.

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Expert witnesses Reginald Armour (L) and Justin Simon (R) leave court house after giving testimony

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CMYK Page:26 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS CBI’s Sustainable Growth Fund speeds global citizenship

As 2019 commences, the Sustainable Growth following fee, which is inclusive of standard due Fund (SGF), launched last year by the Federation’s diligence fees: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme, has proven to be a premium product, offering clients Main applicant – $25,000 a fast, effective and rewarding route to global citizenship. Any family member aged 16 or over – $20,000

“The SGF provides a unique investment option tai- Any family member under the age of 16 – $500 lored to meet the applicant’s needs,” according to (passport processing fee only) CS Global Partners (CSGP) in London. “In addition to extensive visa-free travel and friendly Applicants generally have three investment op- business environment applicants also benefit tions under the Programme: from enhanced choice, speed, integrity, and community engagement offered by the fund.” Making a one-time contribution to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF); CSGP is a consultancy firm specialising in citizenship and residence solutions. It links govern- Making a one-time contribution to the Sugar ments wishing to promote foreign investments in Industry Diversification Foundation (SIDF); or their countries, and individuals wanting to secure their future and become global citizens through Purchasing pre-approved real estate. intelligent economic citizenship. The programme’s integrity is a factor of great “The SGF enhances business prospects, pro- significance to SGF applicants. Given the im- tecting oneself and one’s family, and increases portance of personal reputation to one’s busi- global mobility,” CSGP says. “St Kitts and Nevis ness and career, it is seen as essential that a CBI is repeatedly recognised as operating the World’s Programme takes active steps to protect and Most Innovative CBI Programme. The SGF puts safeguard participants’ reputations. it the Federation in the forefront by introducing an investment option uniquely tailored to appli- St Kitts and Nevis’ decades of experience in cant’s needs. the industry, unparalleled by any other nation, has brought confidence and honour to the pro- “One of SGF’s main attractions is providing gramme. The SGF is evidence of this: no other investors with a more affordable investment so- jurisdiction has yet brought out such a modern lution for single applicants and those with depen- investment option which so reliably and consis- dents. SGF offers a range of products providing children up to the age of 30, and parents or tently protects applicants’ interests. more flexible options for aspiring economic grandparents aged 55 or above, living with and citizens. dependent on the applicant. Some exceptions ap- CSGP has received feedback from clients prais- ply for children who are disabled. ing the programme’s integrity: “St Kitts and “SGF applicants have flexibility in deciding who Nevis sees the importance of international co- manages their application. All applications must The process may be simplified into the following operation and respect. Under this programme I be submitted via an authorised agent, and ap- steps: and my family feel safe.” plicants are free to select any authorised agent or service provider they wish. The list can be Step 1: Application preparation and pre-approval. Finally, community engagement is a unique found on the Citizenship by Investment Unit benefit of SGF. As may be expected – given the (CIU) website, www.ciu.gov.kn. Step 2: Submission of citizenship application. name, all monies invested into the fund are put towards achieving sustainable growth across the A key advantage of SGF is the processing speed. Step 3: Government processing of the applica- nation. Applicants are assured processing time will be a tion and due diligence checks, taking at most maximum of three months, and frequently faster. three months to complete. This involves developing better education, Many applicants report they received approval for example through the new state-of-the-art within eight to ten weeks. Step 4: Approval in principle. Basseterre High School, to creating jobs in the construction, air-travel, and tourism sectors, e.g. St Kitts and Nevis’ ability to offer such an ef- Step 5: Investment in real estate or donation to via house renovation, airport development, and ficient service is the result of the Programme’s the SGF or SIDF. the second pier at Port Zante. long-standing expertise, national and international resources, and understanding of appli- Step 6: Citizenship certificate issued. Investors in the SGF Fund are able to give some- cant’s needs. thing back to their future communities. They can Step 7: Passport application and issuance. invest in theirs and their families’ futures, and SGF procedures were developed after assessing feel at home in their adoptive countries more applicants’ desire for speed. SGF is the only fund SGF makes it easy to apply, requiring only a quickly. Community engagement has become in- that offers an Accelerated Application Process one-time payment, with no additional contracts, creasingly important to applicants in the last few (AAP) if an applicant needs speedier turn-around. financial intermediaries, financial or physical re- years. Thus, St Kitts and Nevis’ recognition of quirements. An even faster service is available this underlines its modern approach. St Kitts and Nevis offer citizenship to applicants via the (AAP). St Kitts and Nevis is currently over the age of 18, of sound health, and of good the only CBI jurisdiction in the world to offer As more CBI programmes are launched and ap- moral character. The Citizenship by Investment such a service. The AAP enables applicants to plicants become savvier, it is no surprise that St Programme is currently closed to citizens of be approved within 60 days, often within four to Kitts and Nevis’ innovative SGF continues to Afghanistan, North Korea, and Iran, although six weeks. dominate market interest at the start of the new some exceptions may apply. An applicant can year. apply with family members, including a spouse, The AAP is exclusive to those who pay the LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:27 PM Harris describes Team Unity’s 2018 achievements, 2019 agenda

The good governance pointed out, “we have include passing the agenda established in ensured that we run the Freedom of Information 2015 will continue to business of government Act, and the Public be robustly carried out by observing the highest Accounts Committee in 2019 according to standards. (PAC) Act; operation- Prime Minister Dr. the alizing the Integrity in Honourable Timothy “To date, the govern- Public Life Act; increas- Harris, ment has recorded a ing the number of resi- number of milestone dent judges available in In his New Year’s Day achievements,” Dr. Basseterre; and facilitat- Message, Dr. Harris Harris said. “These ing the airing of content

Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris

from Her Majesty’s Prime Minister Harris of No Confi dence; ad- Loyal Opposition said. “In fact it became ditional reforms to on state-owned me- a vote of confi dence inthe Citizenship by dia. This includes the this government in what Investment (CBI) pro- Christmas Day Address it has achieved and in gramme; establishing by the Leader of the what it plans to do going a family and juvenile Opposition. forward on behalf of our court; and tackling the people. Democracy is matter of marijuana This is also demonstrat- at an all time high, fi rmdecriminalization or ed in numerous Federal and secure under Team legalization. Parliament meetings. Dr. Unity.” Harris said, a record 11 Dr. Harris added: “We sittings of the National The public was also will amend the act on Assembly in 2018. Three given a glimpse of some public service to en- of those sittings took of the items on the good hance the rights of civil place in December. One governance agenda that servants while simulta- sitting was convened will be pursued in 2019. neously protecting the to facilitate the debate government ...” and vote on a Motion of These include advanc- No Confi dence brought ing legislation on term This will help to ensure against the government. limits for the Tenure the highest standards of of the Prime Minister; service are delivered “We facilitated the legislation on a reason- when executing vari- Motion of No Confiable dencetime for debate ous department/agency and it was defeated, and vote on a Motion functions. Page:28 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS St. Kitts-Nevis slips one ranking on Passport index

Kenichi Serino according to the Henley is based on data from Passport Index released the International Air this week. Transport Association. The “passport power” St. Kitts and Nevis’ of the Federation of Henley issues it’s rank- passport allows for St. Kitts and Nevis has ings every year and visa-free travel to 151 slipped slightly from measures a nation’s countries, according to 26th place to 27th but “passport power” based the index. continues to do well on the access each na- when compared to tion’s passport aff ords In a statement, Henley the rest of the world, its holder. The index & Partners chair and

the inventor of the Federation and Belarus power” with Japan Passport Index concept “will further strengthen holding fi rst place in the Dr. Christian H. Kälin the St. Kitts and Nevis index. Singapore and said the latest ranking passport, and enhance South Korea follow in a shows that despite ris- the travel freedom of its joint second place. ing isolationist senti- citizens.” ment in some parts of Meanwhile, the United the world, many coun- Dr. Juerg Steff en, the States and the United tries remain committed CEO of Henley & Kingdom have dropped to collaboration. Partners, said: “The in the Henley Passport enduring appeal of in- index, and now share “The general spread of vestment migration sixth place. open-door policies has programs shows that the potential to contrib- more and more people “This is a signifi cant fall ute billions to the global are embracing alterna- from the fi rst place po- economy, as well as tive citizenship as the sition that these coun- create signifi cant bestem- way to access pre- tries held in 2015,” said ployment opportunities viously unimagined op- Henley. around the world,” said portunities and improve Kälin. their passport power. Lagging behind in the Additionally, it is no rankings are several Henley said that coun- surprise that countries African nations who’s tries with citizenship- are increasingly looking passports do not get by-investment (CBI) to launch CBI programs, them visa-free access to programmes, including which attract talented many countries--includ- St. Kitts and Nevis, individuals and bring ing when visiting each have continued “to hold enormous economic other. their strong positions.” and societal benefi ts.” “Africa continues to “Malta, for instance, St. Kitts and Nevis also lag behind the rest of sits in 9th spot, with performed well when the world. That said, access to 182 destina- compared to other it is certainly moving tions around the world. countries in the Eastern in the right direction St. Kitts and Nevis and Caribbean with only in terms of enhancing Antigua and Barbuda Barbados (24th) and the visa openness. Over hold 27th and 28th Bahamas (26th) coming the past year, several spots respectively, out ahead. By contrast, African countries – no- while Moldova remains in addition to Antigua tably Angola, Ethiopia, in a strong position at and Barbuda, Trinidad Kenya, Namibia and 46th place, with citi- (30th), St. Lucia (31st), Senegal – relaxed visa zens able to access 122 St. Vincent and the requirements, with the countries.” Grenadines (32nd) and intention of enhancing Dominica (36th) all trade, co-operation, and Henley singled-out St. trailed the Federation. security,” said Signal Kitts and Nevis for Risk director Ryan commendation, saying Globally, Asian coun- Cummings. that a recent agreement tries dominated when signed between the it came to “passport LOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:29 Farmers happy with lease programme

By Monique Washington Hon. Alexis Jeff ers an- from the government nounced in November previously were also that 17 crop farmers granted new leases Landless farmers who that had been squatting with new, more benefi - received leases from on land were granted cial terms. the government late fi ve-year leases from last year have ex- the government. He The minister said that pressed their satisfac- said the lease would the new leases are tion with the initiative not only allow the more “tangible”. The and say it will help farmers to have proper farmers will be able to them to provide for documentation for the get loans against the themselves and the land they worked but lease. The lease will island. also allow them to ap- also serve as an entitle- ply for loans. Farmers ment to these pieces of Minister of Agriculture who had been leasing

A farm at New River.

lands. lot. He said he will be is currently farming on practicing a new type one acre of land which The Observer spoke of farming on the is- cost $100 annually. He with Gansford Junior, land called “intensive plants watermelon, cu- a livestock owner farming”, which al- cumbers, cantaloupes, who received one of lows livestock farmers honey sorrel and the government’s land to tend to their animal potatoes. leases. He said he was within an enclosed leased 1.8 acres of land fenced area. “I think its good that in Cherry Gardens for government would livestock farming. The Observer also have lands available spoke with Clive that farmers can use, “The government Maynard, a crop farm- and maybe more lo- made a good move,” er who had already cals can get into it. It Junior said. been legally farming is a way of providing on government land for for ourselves. We need He said that for sev- the past fi ve years. He more farmers,” he said. eral years he had been said that last year the helping his father with lease was revamped. Minister Jeff ers said his livestock which Accessing government that once that farmer made him want to owned land was easy can prove that he strive to get his own in for him. is producing on the the future. Junior said leased lands an exten- that with the lease and “I worked for a farm- sion to the lease will be possibility of receiv- er who was leasing given. ing a loan to help with land from the govern- farming it “shows that ment. I decided that “If there is production in any direction some I needed to go on my then of course there is kind of help is there.” own. I inquired about a chance for an exten- it and spoke with sion to be done so that Junior noted that the then-Permanent they can produce food though he had begun Secretary Eric Evelyn for themselves, for the lease process, he and the then-Director their family and for the has not begun farm- of Agriculture Mr. people of Nevis. That ing on the property Amory and later re- is an important initia- yet as he is waiting for ceived a piece of land,” tive,” Jeff ers said special fencing for the he said. He said that he Page:30 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 LOCAL NEWS PM says unity should pervade every aspect of Federation’s life

Unity must pervade to dwell together in parties, putting country Day Message to the every aspect of life Unity.” and people above self people of St. Kitts and in the Federation of and party, has been one Nevis on Jan. 1, Dr. St. Kitts and Nevis, Prime Minister Harris of the truly historic ac- Harris gave some strik- Prime Minister Dr. the then commended “the complishments of the ing examples of how Honourable Timothy revitalizing spirit” that Team Unity movement. his Team Unity admin- Harris said while deliv- brought Team Unity – istration has advanced ering welcome remarks the coalition of three “Political pundits have the good governance during his Jan. 5 Fourth parties, namely the marvelled that we have agenda a lot further than Annual Gala Event. Concerned Citizens’ been a model of how its predecessors. Movement (CCM), unity governments “Unity of purpose must the People’s Action ought to work. We “We have opened drive our nation to new Movement (PAM), and came together not out up the state-owned heights of greatness,” the People’s Labour of political convenience broadcasting station, Dr. Harris said. “Unity Party (PLP) – together, necessitated by the ZIZ Broadcasting must be our mantra noting that, “Making arithmetic of general Corporation, to the ex- and modus operandi. history is nothing new election outcomes but tent that news items are Unity must be felt in for us.” rather, long before elec- made of press confer- all institutions: our tions, we determined ences by the Opposition schools, our churches, “Indeed, the formation that it was in the coun- – an historic fi rst,” Dr. our community groups, of Team Unity was an try’s best interest that Harris said. “Another Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris (right) our Parliament and our historic fi rst in the man-we come together and historic fi rst duringwith the Honourable Senator Michael Perkins, Speaker Government. ner and care in which it share a common vision the last 20-plus years of the National Assembly. was founded,” the prime for the development of has been the airing of We are reminded of minister said. “Today, this great country that the Christmas Day ad- state-owned radio former leaders of the Psalm 133: How pleas- that historic coming to- we all love and cher- dress by the Leader and TV. This facil- Opposition.” ant it is for brethren gether of rival political ish.” In his New Year’s of the Opposition on ity was never given to ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 Page:31 Page:32 The St.Kitts Nevis Observer - Friday January 11th, 2019 ADVERTISEMENTLOCAL NEWS

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