At The Pumps This Weekend Maximum Price ULG per gal 14/04/10 DELTA $13.01 SHELL $12.69 Year 52 NO. 46BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, W.I. FRIDAY, APRIL 16th 2010 EC$2.00 TEXACO $12.29 National Security Minister outlines Condor presents plan of action to combat crime recommendations

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Sam Condor has outlined “There is an emphasis and focus to to drastically the Government’s plan of action in its determination to arrest the social ill of crime and increase the police presence in the violence in our Federation. community. I want to improve the Force’s improve the This he explained involves seeking the assistance of the Federal Bureau of public image, the relationship and the Investigations (FBI) in the USA, the Regional Security Services (RSS) as well as the confidence that the public has in the police. quality and increased presence of the Police and Defence Force (both regular and volunteers) in the We want to establish more community community. policing where we could build confidence, scope of “We are taking the matter extremely serious and we want to be proactive. But we don’t interact with the people because that is feel overwhelmed at all. We feel very positive and very confident,” Minister Condor how you will be able to get intelligence delivery of the stated here in an interview with this newspaper yesterday. The other set goals for combating crime and violence here are: improved police-public security forces relationship, and boosting the resources of the security forces. (cont’d on page 3) BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 14TH 2010 (CUOPM) - There is need for further investigation into the efficiency and Recipients of the 2009 Independence Awards posing with His Excellency the responsiveness of the Federation’s security Governor General, Sir Cuthbert Sebastian at Government House on Wednesday forces. This is the view expressed by newly- morning (April 14th) after receiving their awards:- appointed Minister of National Security, Left to Right (Front Row) – Mr. Carl Glasford (representing his father, the late Hon. Williams F. Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Sam Condor. Glasford); Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, and Sir Edmund Lawrence. Back Row – Konris Maynard, Tamboura Kitwana and Dr. Samuel Rawlins. Missing from the photo is Mrs. Willa Franks Liburd who received her award earlier. (Photo by Willett’s Photo Studio)

Minister Condor in a comprehensive report to the Cabinet on Monday underscored the deep concern of his ministry regarding the continuing spate of violence in the Federation and presented an overview of recent criminal activity in the Federation. He surmised that while government continues for many years to place increasing emphasis on National Security in material and institutional investment terms, it is clear that the efficiency and responsiveness of the security forces need to be investigated. Minister Condor and Special Advisor in the Ministry, Dr. Norgen Wilson in outlining the most critical findings of the investigation, noted that the human and physical resources, coordination and communication, discipline and control, leadership and community policing, were the principal areas under review.

(cont’d on page 3)

PAGE 02 PAGE 5 COMMENTARY BY PAGE 12 Mommy Henny SCASPA APPOINTS * THE THINKING CITIZEN Celebrates 100 * SOTTO VOCE NEW GENERAL * VIEW POINT Years Of Life MANAGER * EARL CLARKE 2 - OPINION / LOCAL NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 New Celebrity cruise ship to ‘Silhouette’ St Kitts in 2011/2012 THE SPOKESMAN - ESTABLISHED MAY 1957 Published by: The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades & Labour Union BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 15TH 2010 (CUOPM) – Ag. Managing Director Editor: Dawud Byron Even before it is deployed, St. Kitts Masses House, Church Street is on the itinerary of Celebrity P.O Box 239 . Basseterre . St. Kitts . West Indies Cruises newest ship for the 2011/ Tel: (1 869) 465-2229 <> Fa: (1 869) 466-9866 2012 cruise season. Email: [email protected] After considerable Celebrity Solstice cruising towards St. Kitts’ Port Zante with the Website: www.labourspokesman.com speculation, Celebrity Cruises (the Explorer of the Seas already docked. premium brand of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd) formally announced the deployment of its newest ship, the Celebrity “Silhouette,” sister Editorial ship of the “Solstice” which regularly visits S. Kitts’ Port Zante. As the fourth ship in We need to rescue our Celebrity’s award-winning Solstice-class, the “Silhouette” will Celebrity Solstice docked at Port Zante in St. Kitts. country from the offer 12-night Eastern Caribbean and Southern Caribbean cruises include Italy, Germany and Spain. receiving the news from Celebrity cancer of crime round trip from Cape Liberty, New Then, from August to mid-October Cruises about the deployment of Jersey from November 6, 2011 to 2011, she’ll continue with a series the “Silhouette,” Direct Line All of us are concerned about the increase in criminal activity taking April 10 of 2012. of unique 9 to 13-night Cruises sent a promotional place in the Federation, especially the brutal taking of life by the gun. The Caribbean ports of call will Mediterranean and Holy Land announcement to their clients (via We are all affected in one way or another, whether it is a mother and include St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. cruises (round trip from Italy) DLC’s e-mail newsletter) offering father grieving for a murdered son, or troubled over a child that has Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten, which, depending on the sailing an onboard credit of up to $200 turned wayward; or the disruption of peace and harmony in communities Labadee, San Juan, Nassau date selected and the length of the per stateroom for advance that bemoan the tranquility that is sporadically affected by gang activity. (Bahamas) and St. Croix in the US itinerary, will include several ports bookings on the Celebrity We are all aware that crime fighting is a challenge here in St. Kitts and Virgin Islands. in Italy as well as Greece, Croatia, “Silhouette” that are made by April Nevis and throughout the entire Caribbean region and indeed the world. The Silhouette will depart on Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Jerusalem 19, 2010. The solution to solving crime has not been easy as criminals are becoming her inaugural sailing July 23, 2011 and / or Israel. more sophisticated in their crime methods and society is being cowed with a 7-night cruise that will Almost immediately upon (Photos by Erasmus Williams) not to say what they know out of fear for their lives. The Police must be seen as confidential professionals, who are serious about their responsibilities otherwise they are a hindrance and not a help to the fight against crime. Mommy Henny Celebrates 100 But we cannot let down our guards in the fight against this cancer of crime that threatens to destroy the country’s economy, image and reputation, and everything that we have individually and collectively Years Of Life built over time. Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 14, This is not the time to try and score points by the politicizing of 2010 (SKNIS): Hardworking, crime, nor is it the moment to single out the Government or any one strong and private were all words institution to blame for the crime situation. This is a time to recognize used to describe Ms Henrietta that all of us play a major role in the fight against crime. Watson of Old Road who It is true that national security is the Government’s primary celebrated 100 years of life on responsibility. Government must ensure that our Security Forces are Saturday, April 10, 2010. well trained and equipped to deal with solving and preventing crime; Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Government must also ensure that our air and sea ports are adequately Denzil Douglas, Minister protected against the illegal trafficking of guns, drugs and other responsible for Social substances. Development Honourable The Government has been trying with its limited resources and with Marcella Liburd, Parliamentary regional and international help to boost the skills capacity and material Representative for the Area resources of the Security Forces. It is true that the Government is getting Honourable Glenn Phillip, Former assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there is an Minister and Parliamentary Anti-Gang Unit, closed-circuit television (CCTV) has been placed in Representative for the Area Rupert certain crime hotspots and police officers have been receiving training, Herbert were among family and but the Government alone cannot fight crime. friends who saluted Ms Henrietta The question must be asked: How did we get like this? We can all Watson for arriving at the grand observe how there has been an erosion in moral and spiritual values in old age of 100. our society. People’s hearts are growing cold. Their love, respect, The St. Kitts and Nevis tolerance and other values known for properly functioning relationships Information Service’s staff Mommy Henny at Sprat Net Luncheon are in steady decline. When our moral and spiritual values are jettisoned cameras chronicled Mommy Henny in song with “Sweet Will eyesight was good enough for her then we have a heartless society. We have become very materialistic and Henny’s attainment at a Church consumeristic. Some of us now value things more than people and when of God.” She noted that her to notice. Service at the Ebenezer Old Road Godmother could still see to thread While bringing the Message, this happens life is cheapened. Methodist Church on Saturday However, it is never too late to take back our country from the a needle and she said that several Methodist Superintendent last which was followed by a days before, she had visited and Minister Rev. Dr. Wycherley hoodlums who are misguided. Luncheon at Sprat Net. This will require that all hands are on deck. Parents, teachers, pastors, asked why she had lived so long. Gumbs mentioned faithful servants Approximately 200 persons were Ms. Williams stated that in of God such as Jeremiah. He then guardians, church and civic organizations, politicians, doctors, lawyers, said to have joined the centenarian the Police and people of all walks of life are needed to rescue our country response her Godmother told her highlighted Mommy Henny’s in her celebrations. that she could see straight through philosophy as to why she had from the cancer of crime. During the Church Service, We can only do this by the example of love and forgiveness shown her. She then admitted that it was adopted Goddaughter Agnes because she had not been wearing to our children and young people in general. It can only be done when Williams paid tribute to Mommy we spend quality time with them and take an active interest in their lives. a petticoat, and Mommy Henny’s (cont’d on page 3) We cannot wait until our children are set in their ways to do this. We must steer them in the right direction now. If we don’t do this now, we will continue to reap a society where who terrorize our society and place additional strain on the Government and its financial and human resources. more and more of our young people become vagabonds and waywards We are all responsible in the fight against crime! The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - NEWS - 3 US Defense Secretary meet Eastern PUBLIC NOTICE All Constituents of St Christopher #7 Caribbean leaders on security (Belle Vue to Ottleys Village) issues officials meet with Mr. Gates are here by informed that the Parliamentary to discuss the full range of for the area and Ministry of Finance BASSETERRE, ST. security challenges facing the Dr the Hon Timothy Harris will be holding KITTS, APRIL 14TH 2010 sub-region and especially how (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and the United States can work one-on-one consultation on Saturday 12th Nevis’ Deputy Prime Minister with the Regional Security September 2009 from 10-12 pm, the and Minister of National System (RSS) to strengthen the consultation would take place at his Security, Hon. Sam Condor and region’s capacity to meet these Constituency Office at Mansion. All Eastern Caribbean leaders will threats. discuss regional security issues United States Charge d’ Constituents of Constituency #7 are ask to with United States Secretary of Affairs at the United States take note and be punctual Defense, the Honourable United States Defense Secretary, Embassy in Barbados, Mr. D. the Hon. Robert Gates. Robert Gates. Brent Hardt is hopeful that the LABOUR Deputy Prime Minister discussions will advance the evolving challenges posed by The West tsasseterre Labour Branch Condor will represent Prime common efforts to ensure that organised crime, drug Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. the Regional Security System trafficking cartels, terrorists and Will be holding its Douglas at the meeting in (RSS) is effective in meeting the natural disasters. Monthly General Meeting Barbados on Friday 16th April. On Wednesday, 21st April, 2010 Eastern Caribbean leaders and senior national security At the West Bassetere Constituency Office The Hon. Sam Condor, Parliamentary Representative will be in attendance, all are National Security Minister outlines plan of action to invited and asked to be punctual. 15th April, 2010 combat crime (cont’d from page 1) of the operations. We want to have more frequent and sustained joint Condor the Government has also and have detection and so there’s an emphasis and a focus on that,” he operations to improve the gang members on the streets contacted the FBI and he will have stated. relationship between the Defense According to Minister Condor the opportunity to speak to the The National Security Minister said “We want to do more joint Force and the police as well as “We want to make sure that we persons involved, on his trip to operations between the Police and the Defence Force .We are stepping boosting the security units that we pay attention to those little things Barbados. up our patrols system. We want to double on the beat now where instead have here such as the SSU and the so that they don’t escalate into “We are not going to have any of one police officer you would see two police officers. So we are trying anti-gang unit to make sure that bigger offences. So we basically dramatic solutions just now to rearrange the operations in terms of the administration of the Police they are functioning to maximum want to have a new attitude in because these activities, they Force, making sure that we get our police to go out and interact with capacity so we could get the best terms of policing and to make sure come from the hearts of men and civilians to get maximum support from the public in the execution of their results from them, the National we arrest this situation and have a women and so you know you have duties.” Security Minister explained. turn around in what has been to change minds and change Speaking to the investment of outside assistance, Minister Condor He said the Government is happening in the country.” hearts and so we want to do that spoke highly of the forensic aspect in helping to gather evidence looking to get the Police Force to The Minister of National and we believe that it is going to concerning homicide cases. be more professional and Security is expected to travel to take a collective effort of all of us, “Because of the present situation, we are seeking the full support of understand their role and Barbados today (Friday) where he the entire country …but we are the RSS, getting some assistance to beef up some of the things that we responsibility. will meet with the U.S Secretary of very confident that we will be able are doing here and we are also looking at international assistance from He spoke about the importance State for Defense and other top to handle the situation,” the the FBI, to deal especially with the murders that we have had over the of police officers in paying keen government officials from the National Security concluded. last week to get some assistance in terms of evidence gathering, forensic attention to what is going on in region The RSS Coordinator, assistance. We are looking at all those things,” he said. their surroundings, in areas like Brantley Watson, is expected to be Speaking more to the efficiency and productivity of the police, he traffic violations, indecent in attendance. said the government is looking at reorganizing the Police Force in terms exposure and the gathering of As indicated by Minister Condor presents rough times, because God will see “I could recall the first day I Mommy Henny Celebrates 100 me through. So I am content to went across the bay and recommendations rest in God and rest in God’s care.” introduced myself,” Minister (cont’d from page 2) Years Of Life (cont’d from page 2) Mommy Henny’s Grandson Phillip said. “The first thing she lived so long. Chesil Watson thanked all of his said is – who you be? Where The Minister concluded his Superintendent Gumbs said that she said the reason was contentment. Grandmother’s well-wishers for Herbert? I don’t know you.” The report by discussing a manageable He went on to explain that contentment according to the Greek text was honouring her with their presence. Parliamentary Representative of number of practical not simply to accept things as they are. He also thanked her for the the Area noted that the first recommendations which he said “It means whatever state I find myself, I realize that God is in it with sacrifices she had made for loved meeting was all in good faith and would not necessarily demand me,” Superintendent Gumbs said. “I shall go through the deep waters, ones over the years. Mr. Watson it continued with Mommy Henny additional resources, but which said that Mommy Henny worked giving him a history lesson of Old could drastically improve the hard – from cane field to cane field, Road as well as of his village, quality and scope of delivery of riding the donkey and going into Challengers. the security forces. the mountain to get cassava. The ceremonies continued at The recommendations “She has worked very hard and Sprat Net where Prime Minister restructuring the crime fighting to reach this milestone of 100 years Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas units to improve synergy and is a really big achievement,” Mr. acknowledged Mommy Henny for achieve greater overall Watson said. “And only one her contribution to the effectiveness; re-organising complaint she has. She say development of the Federation human resources in both the Chessy, all does hurt me, is me and congratulated her on her Defence Force and the Police Force hip.” achievement. Supervisor of Social and reinforcing and further Parliamentary Representative Assistance Mrs. Ann Wigley underscoring law-enforcement for the Area Honourable Glenn along with Social Assistance activities. Phillip congratulated Mommy Officer Larissa Riley were on hand Photo: Deputy Prime Minister Henny on her attainment and to bring the Unit’s greeting. and Minister of National Minister & Mrs. Glenn Phillip singing at Mommy Henny’s Service recounted their first meeting. Security, Hon. Sam Condor 4 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 focus group of Regional Trade is supporting ILO policies through The Executive of the St. Kitts- Young Trade Unionists Unionists who will serve as the its establishment of an education Nevis Trades and Labour Union “catalyst for change” in local committee and the future is exhibiting the will to facilitate the Complete Training organisations and aid in the sanctioning of an OSH proposals presented in the ILO influencing of local collective subcommittee to facilitate the policies and will continue the bargaining agreements and awareness and training of the implementation of the ILO Workshop on national legislative ratification of Trade Union Executive and initiatives for the benefit of all ILO policies. Membership on Occupational workers in the Federation of St. Occupation Health and The Executive of the St. Kitts- Safety and Health. Kitts-Nevis Nevis Trades and Labour Union Safety By: Joseph E. O’Flaherty, Jr. TDC technician receives first silver Continuing its effort to educate the workers of the Federation, the St. By Melissa Amsterdam Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union recently sent two local delegates award in OECS to participate in a workshop on Occupation Health and Safety (OSH), TDC (St.Kitts/Nevis Anguilla which was administered at the Barbados Workers Union College and Trading Development Company funded by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Ltd), Canon Technician, Valdis The workshop participants were all required to be under the age of Jeffers, is now the first Silver forty five and each territory was invited to send two representatives Awardee in the Organization of comprising of one male and one female. Over 30 delegates from the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). region were present. Jeffers was awarded with a Mrs. Jacqueline Francis, shop steward at Harrow Servo Controls, plaque and label pin on 6th April, Sandy Point and Mr. Joseph E. O’Flaherty, Jr. Assistant General Secretary which was presented by Technical of the St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union attended the training Division Service Manager for workshop which was from the 22nd to 26th March 2010. Canon Latin America, Inc. (out of Several ILO high level policies were presented by the instructors Miami), Jose Conceicao – a 20 year and the corresponding Canon veteran. Trade Union positions were discussed and proposed by all The plaque and label pin The Technical Division Service Manager for Canon Latin America, participating members presented were to certify Jeffers’ Inc., Jose Conceicao hands over the silver award to TDC’s Canon The workshop focused on introducing an exhaustive number of ILO pass as a Canon Association of Technician, Valdis Jeffers. (Photo by Precious Mills) high level conventions and resolutions. These included but were not Technical Service Professionals limited to: (ATSP), after he did a very applicants, the platinum level. to take a test for the silver award C155 - Occupational Safety and Health Convention, 1981 vigorous exam. The platinum level is said to (TDC has four other bronze C157 - Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Jeffers who has 10 years of be extremely difficult and will awardees). Convention, 2006 experience as a photo copier involve systems (software based) Conceicao said that the ATSP C161- Occupational Health Services Convention, 1985 machine technician said that it was and a lot of network aspects. is to develop the technician’s These conventions can all be referenced online by pointing an internet his first attempt at the silver award. Conceicao explained that, knowledge. While preparing for browser to the ILO Database of Labour Legislation: He said that he studied “This award basically signifies the the exams they are expected to http://www.ilocarib.org.tt/projects/cariblex/conventions.shtml extensively with help from his best of the best technical study hard and improve in their More specifically if any worker in the Federation of St. Kitts-Nevis colleagues along with the knowledge that we have in our field. wishes to research which ILO conventions have been ratified by our knowledge he gained from a region .It is not an easy exam it is The Bronze and Silver exam are National Assembly or Legislature, one may simply browse online via the course in the field that he attended not something that even the comprised of 40 questions to test internet to the following site: in Miami and Panama. technician with many years of the participants knowledge while http://www.ilocarib.org.tt/projects/cariblex/ “Receiving this award is more experience could just take the exam the Gold exam has 40 questions browse_countryst_kitts_nevis.shtml than a privilege for me. I’m truly and pass. It is a difficult exam. Our and a one-on-one interview with a Interestingly enough while the workers of St. Kitts-Nevis have always proud and appreciative to be the technical support group writes it. representative from the Miami been well served by the industrial arm of the SKNTLU since 1932, the first. I am hoping that my All the people who write the exams group. legislature, comprising of constitutionally elected ministers and colleagues would do the same and are the people who have gone Jeffers is expected to leave appointed senators, to date has not ratified any ILO OSH conventions. I look forward to win the gold next through it themselves so we know St.Kitts shortly for a two-week Several lectures presented the details and the highlights of the specific year,” Jeffers stated. what type of questions we need training course in Miami as he ILO policies focusing on Occupational Health and Safety while organised Because of Jeffers’ to put in there”. prepares to take on the gold level group activities cemented the use and application of these policies with achievement, TDC Ltd., was also “A technician on day to day next year. He will learn about the respect to regional trade union action. Delegates were responsible for given an Award of Excellence for activities has all kinds of image runner advance three series participation in small group activity and presentation of the results of having achieved the technical information through the internet coming out shortly by Canon- C the group work exercises. proficiency in the copier service service manuals, tech pubs, Image Runner Advance C-5000 The persons responsible for lectures and presentation of course industry. service information- they can carry series C-7000, 9000. work to the participants were Ms Paula Robinson (ILO), Mr Basil “Tony” For having being awarded the all this to fix machines. However Rocheford and Ms Aitana Gari (ISTAS). The workshop was conducted silver award, Jeffers is expected to when they sit in front the exams, with the strategy of adopting the “CARICOM Model Legislation on receive $200. they have nothing, they have to Occupational Safety and Health” which was presented by Basil “Tony” The Technical Division Service actually answer the questions Rocheford. Manager for Canon Latin America, from their knowledge or from their Instructors then guided the workshop participants through the Inc., Jose Conceicao who is a Gold experience from the field and to various processes of: Medalist, an award he achieved 12 honest with a little luck sometimes 1. Analysis of the ILO conventions and Recommendations; years ago remarked that the award as well,” Conceicao said. 2. Incorporation of the spirit of these policies into the fabric of the was a big accomplishment. The Canon official also noted framework of Collective Bargaining processes of the individual Trade “This is an extremely that to do the test to attain the Unions; prestigious award for technicians,” bronze award, an individual must 3. Adoption of ILO policies into the legislation of individual Conceicao said, noting that there be a field technician for at least one Caribbean Nation States. were four award levels – bronze, year. At the completion of the workshop, there was an emerging belief silver, gold and starting this year According to him, if the that the participants should be considered, by the ILO Directorate, as a because of the high number of individual passes he is then eligible The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - NEWS - 5 culture. Forecast Crop Production for Kittitian “We aim to help young entrepreneurs with growth April and May 2010 Rustum strategies,” said Southwell who was among nine African- The Department of Agriculture – St Kitts, an arm of the Ministry of Canadians honoured with the Agriculture, Marine Resources and Constituency Empowerment of the Southwell Black Business and Professional Federal Government, has issued a report indicating the anticipated Association’s Men of Distinction production levels of a number of food crops, for the months of April and among BBPA awards last week at the Fairmont May 2010. Royal York Hotel. “We have had a Items covered in the report are Tomato, Sweet Pepper, Peanut, Sweet distinguished strong 14 years despite the fact Potato, Watermelon, Pumpkin, Cabbage, Carrot, Onion and White Potato, that we have had to turn down while the statistics relate solely to commercial farms operating on St companies who have approached Kitts. Black men us without strong business cases. The statistics reveal that the output of several crops will in fact be “Unfortunately, the Black adequate to meet national demand. These include peanut, pumpkin, BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, community tends to go into low- carrots, onions, and white potatoes. APRIL 12TH 2010 (CUOPM) – A return service industries. We have As a result of the foregoing statistics, recommendations were issued national of St. Kitts and Nevis has tried to get people to look at non- that there should be no importation of pumpkin, peanut, white potato, been named one of the Black traditional types of operations. onion and carrot during the month of April, 2010. Business and Professional Rustum Southwell The majority are into retail services Also, importation of tomato should be restricted to 10,000 pounds in Association of Canada (BBPA) and construction. We also try to April, and no importation of carrot should be permitted in May, 2010. distinguished Black men for 2010. awards for excellence in business. get people away from Black hair After reviewing the report, Dr the Hon Timothy Harris – Senior The following story appears in Whenever he gets the care and the restaurant businesses Minister and Minister responsible for the subject of Agriculture – said Canadian newspapers: opportunity, Kittitian-born and we encourage them to look at that he is heartened by the forecasted performance of some crops, which When you place an order at Rustum Southwell lauds Duck and the information technology and are expected to do very well. Tim Horton’s, the “double double” Gibson’s accomplishments and environmental sectors.” Equally, Dr Harris commented that he is very concerned over those - two cream and two sugars in your presents them as inspiration for Southwell, whose Dominican- crops in which we will not be able to meet the domestic demand, and coffee - is evenly dispensed by a aspiring entrepreneurs. born father Paul was the first Chief would have to rely on importation to cover the shortfall. machine invented by Michael Southwell owned a Harvey’s Minister of St. Kitts, Nevis & However, the Senior Minister again took the time to encourage current Duck. franchise for 11 years before Anguilla and later Premier farmers to seize the opportunity to increase their production levels in Duck owns A.C. Dispensing becoming the chief executive following the death of Robert the crops which are not meeting the quantities demanded by the domestic Equipment Inc. which officer of the Halifax-based Black Bradshaw, said his organization market. manufactures and sells the Sure Business Initiative (BBI) which has been working with the BBPA Dr Harris also issued a call for the emergence of new farmers to Shot machine that regulates the has helped to create over 300 Black and groups in other metropolitan satisfy the void in the local demand of these commodities, and to amount of cream poured into a cup businesses and nearly 700 jobs in cities, including Montreal and generally expand the scope of production in fruits and vegetable farming. of coffee. Nova Scotia since it was created Larry Gibson founded the 14 years ago. Vancouver, to set up national Black Dartmouth-based Install-A-Flor In 1996, the federal and Nova business networks similar to the SCASPA APPOINTS NEW company that’s a major exporter of Scotia governments established BBI. flooring and other interior the BBI to address the unique A student teacher in St. Kitts business products. needs confronting the province’s who aborted medical studies after GENERAL MANAGER In addition to being visionaries Black community. The a year at the University of the West Basseterre, St. Kitts – April 14, 2010 - The Board of Directors for the and successful entrepreneurs, organization is committed to Indies Cave Hill campus in St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority has appointed a new General Duck and Gibson have a few other growing the Black presence in a Barbados, Southwell migrated to Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the largest statutory corporation things in common. They are Black diverse range of business sectors, Halifax in 1972 and immersed in St. Kitts and Nevis. Mr. Terrence Crossman took up the position on Nova Scotians who have been including technology, himself in business. Monday, April 12, 2010, bringing with him vast experience in strategic honoured with Harry Jerome manufacturing, tourism and planning, business process-reengineering and corporate re-structuring, and a track record of success. Mr. Crossman was most recently employed at LIME (formerly Cable St. Kitts and Nevis students to benefit from new line and Wireless) where his last position was Head of Retail Sales & Service exclusive rights for the publication and previously, Vice President of Corporate Sales. During his career at of CXC past papers booklets of all subject reports, related LIME Mr. Crossman received recognition for several initiatives including specimen papers and mark C & W Global Award for Innovation and Value Creation, Initiative of the BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 12TH 2010 (CUOPM) – Hundreds schemes for both examinations. Year Award, and Customer Service Excellence Award. Prior to joining of St. Kitts and Nevis students along with thousands from the region Barbados’ Chief Education Cable & Wireless, Mr. Crossman worked as a Manager of Pricewaterhouse will soon benefit from an easier to follow and more efficient layout and Officer (Acting) of the Ministry of Coopers Consulting practice in Atlanta, GA, USA where he received design of a new front page, added elements of schools’ reports and Education and Human Resource extensive experience in process re-engineering and corporate other new features of the Caribbean Examinations Council’s (CXC) past Development, Laurie King, said restructuring. papers booklets. that the publication of these past As the new General Manager, Mr. Crossman will focus keenly on This was revealed by Registrar at CXC in Barbados, Didacus Jules, papers and school reports aligns PEOPLE, both internally and externally, which he says is one of the four who said that the publication of the schools’ reports “is a very significant with the mission and vision of the pillars of his 4 P strategy. The other pillars of his strategy will centre on step forward because these reports are prepared by the examining ministry in “creating a well-skilled, Process, Productivity and ultimately Profitability with a view to building committee for each subject in every examination.” resource foundation on which we a winning culture and a distinct and an enviable corporate SCASPA This would therefore go a long way towards helping teachers and can build a knowledge-based brand. students because the reports reveal how candidates are performing in economy that is internationally Mr. Crossman holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance, that particular subject, which helps teachers to hone weak areas of the competitive.” a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting (summa cum laude) and an Associate students as expressed in the examination. Apart from these booklets, of Arts in Management, and is currently pursuing a second Masters “For example, from several preceding years, the examination panel in King said that his ministry is “on degree in Global Consumer Marketing. Given his professional training, Geography kept pointing to the need for improved map reading by the the eve of signing a Memorandum managerial experience and focus on people, process, productivity, and students and the schools apparently finally did pay attention to that of Understanding with the profitability, Mr. Crossman is qualified to lead the Authority as it continues guidance and we saw in last year’s examination, significant improvement Caribbean Examinations Council to rebrand and reposition itself to become a viable, customer-focussed in performance because attention had been given to improving the map and the TVET Council in relation organisation. reading skills,” Jules is quoted in a regional media story as stating. to Caribbean Vocational In welcoming Mr. Crossman to SCASPA, Chairman Mr. Linkon Jules said that he was happy to be launching these booklets in Qualifications (CVQ) being offered Maynard expressed the full confidence of the Board of Directors in the conjunction with Ian Randle Publishers (IRP). He said that IRP was as an additional competency- new CEO and joins with the Ministry of Tourism & International chosen after a “transparent bidding process,” where regional and UK- based mechanism in our schools”. Transport, the Board of Directors, Management and Staff in based publishers competed to offer CXC a range of services. He said This would require that proper congratulating and welcoming Mr. Crossman to the Corporation. that his organisation was looking for a company that would meet mechanisms be implemented for SCASPA (www.scaspa.com) is a statutory enterprise which operates international standards but as a regional body, they were also looking to such things as record keeping, the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, the Port Zante Port for support a fellow regional organisation and IRP fit the bill in both cases. since students who satisfy the handling cruise ships, and the country’s Deep Sea Port for handling Jules added that CXC has granted IRP exclusive rights to publish matriculation requirements for the incoming and outgoing cargo vessels. The company’s work force is 425 their syllabuses and past examination papers for all CAPE and CSEC Level 1 CVQ will have to verify and during 2008, SCASPA reported audited revenues in excess of EC$39 subjects. these competencies internally and million. They have also granted the Jamaican publishing company non- externally and have them recorded. 6 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 OAS Calls for Submission of Technical Cooperation Project Concepts for 2010 The Organization of American States (OAS), through its Country Office in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, is calling on its Stakeholders and Development Partners in Government, the Private Sector and Non- Governmental Organizations to submit Project Concepts for consideration. Approved concepts will be developed in full project proposals for funding and implementation in the second quarter of 2011. According to the OAS Country Office, the organization, consistent with its Strategic Plan for Partnership for Development, has set forth the following eight (8) priority areas to ensure a focused and effective implementation of the plan: * Social Development and creation of productive employment * Education * Economic diversification and integration, trade liberalization and market access * Scientific development and exchange and transfer of technology * Strengthening of Democratic Institutions * Sustainable Tourism Development * Sustainable development and environment * Culture The OAS Representative in St. Kitts and Nevis Mr. Starret Greene explained that there were four (4) strategic objectives of his organization’s Strategic Plan for Partnership for Development namely improving the mechanisms for policy dialogue; building and strengthening of partnerships; capacity building; and resource mobilization. All project concepts should be submitted to the Ministry of Sustainable Development, through its Department of Planning using the OAS template. Submissions should reach the said department before June 15, 2010. Additional information can be obtained from the OAS Country Office by calling 465-2636. The struggle against poverty and inequality and the need to achieve integral, equitable, and sustainable social and economic development Press are at the core of the OAS’s Technical Cooperation Program in the Hemisphere. release from

This has been confirmed by the St Kitts RSS to RSS Coordinator Mr. Grantley Watson, following a Regional and Nevis introduce Security System (RSS) Council of Ministers’ Meeting here at Hotel and the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, polygraph Frigate Bay Tourism Mr. Watson said the testing for its decision to adopt the polygraph (lie-detector) policy was made Association RSS Coordinator Grantley Watson (centre) flanked by then RSS last year and that it should be Basseterre April 13, 2010 : ranks Chairman, St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. completed by the end of April. The membership of the St Douglas (right) and RSS Director of Administration, Horace Kirton BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, “In an organisation like this, Kitts and Nevis Hotel and (left). (Photo by Erasmus Williams) APRIL 12TH 2010 (CUOPM) – The there is always the chance of Tourism Association is deeply Barbados-based Regional Security corruption,” Watson said, saddened by the tragic death of before and a few may have According to the newspaper System (RSS) in an attempt to rid noting the high frequency of Jim Johnson. Everyone that cooperated (with drug dealers and report, in addition to the screening itself of any corruption is to introduce drug-running in the Caribbean. knew Jim will be horrified at the other bad elements). I’m not of all perspective members, polygraph testing for those persons “We know for sure that way he met his end. saying that there is a high level of existing staff will be required to wishing to join its ranks. persons have been approached Jim was the ultimate corruption in the organisation, but pass polygraphs before being ambassador for Nevis, his if we polygraph everyone coming assigned to special RSS missions, energy and commitment to the in, then the likelihood of persons since they would have entered the Island was shown in the Fall of accepting bribes will go way system without going through 2009 with the launching of the down,” said the former Barbados rigorous testing. Nevis Pirate Festival. For his police chief. This was one of the issues efforts with the Pirate Festival He said the RSS was discussed at a high-level RSS Jim was given an honorary concerned that staff members meeting in St. Kitts late last month. membership of the HTA. All that could be approached by drug The RSS is a joint mission of had been on one of his tours will dealers or violent criminals Barbados and six members of the have known his knowledge and interested in offering significant Organisation of Eastern Caribbean his enthusiasm for the Island of sums of money for sensitive States (OECS) – Antigua and Nevis and anything to do with information regarding the Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. its nature and history. organisation’s plans in policing Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. He will be greatly missed and coastlines or patrolling suspected Vincent and the Grenadines. our condolences go out to his areas of drug activity. family at this time Polygraph equipment. The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - NEWS - 7 Did PAM tell the people that International Airport. “Dangerous hypocrites” Dr. Simmonds was going to The Sheriff loves to talk sign a Loan Guarantee for about the National Debt. The On Wednesday night April step into the breach. Nautical Trading (St. Kitts) Ltd National or Public Debt is an By: The Thinking Citizen 7, 2010, the Sheriff in Nevis Now, if Mr. Lindsay Grant for US$25,300,000.00? economic issue and the Sheriff gave a lasting display of what wins the case involving Serious discussions on VAT just like his PAM Coalition he would call “raising the case against the Hon. Glenn Constituency No. 4 and Mr. have taken place by certain partners, does not understand standard” and “Lifting the bar” Phillip. Cedric Liburd wins the case persons, including the Sheriff, that one cannot apply a political in public discussion, while This biased and incomplete involving Constituency No. 8, who clearly have no idea of analysis to an economic issue conducting his regular weekly analysis of the situation by the then on the basis of numbers, what they are discussing. They or problem. VON Radio call-in show. The Sheriff is caused by his nothing would have changed for are simply giving the public the When the Sheriff was Sheriff’s display on VON was obsession with the idea that the the Labour Party Government. wrong ideas in their efforts to discussing the matter of neither fair, just, objective nor Federal Government is a But the Sheriff is counting his score cheap political points. All Severance Pay on his accurate and exhibited all the Coalition Government and also chickens before they are that such persons know for Wednesday night show he did usual prejudices and biases with the notion that the Hon. hatched. He is counting that Mr. sure is that VAT is coming in not even know that the against the Labour Party. Patrice Nisbett plays a real and Lindsay Grant would win the November 2010. It takes a set contributions to Severance Pay In the early part of the positive pivotal role in ensuring case in Constituency No. 4 and of pompous and arrogant were paid by the Employer and show, the Sheriff referred to the survival of the present Mr. Cedric Liburd would lose people to discuss the details of not the Employee (The case of two (2) electoral cases before Labour Party Government. the case in Constituency No. 8. a matter of which they know the Four Seasons Workers). He the High Court. That is the So in order to highlight and If, however, the High Court almost nothing. was brought up to date on the PAM case against the Hon. over-rate the importance of the rules against the Hon. Glenn People who are of a certain matter by a listener who called Glenn Phillip in Constituency Hon. Patrice Nisbett to the Phillip in Constituency No.4 and age would easily remember that in on the show. No.4 and the Labour Party existence of the present a by-election is held and the the way the Sheriff is attacking Up until the time of the Budget case against the Hon. Eugene Federal Government, the Hon. Glenn Phillip wins again, VAT nowadays is the same Debate in Parliament, the Sheriff Hamilton in Constituency No. Sheriff had to omit any and all then the Labour Party would way that PAM attacked Social had no idea of what debts 8. discussion or explanation of the still be in command of the Security when the Scheme was constitute the National Debt. He The Sheriff focussed on the challenge in the High Court original 6 seats in Parliament. being proposed. There truly is had no idea that the debt of the Nevis Island Administration forms PAM case in respect of involving the Hon. Eugene When one examines all the a PAM/CCM Coalition in part of the National Debt. Before Constituency No. 4 and Hamilton. implications and ramifications opposition. 1992 the Federation’s National explained what would happen A Coalition Government is of the results of the two (2) One thing I have often formed when two or more Debt excluded the debt of the in the event that PAM won the electoral challenges before the wondered about and that is Nevis Island Administration as parties, none of which itself can case against the Hon. Glenn High Court, one sees that the when CCM was in office, the well as the debts of the Public Phillip. The Sheriff did not say form the government alone, join Hon. Patrice Nisbett may not CCM Administration sanctioned Corporations or Statutory bodies what would happen to the together to form the be called upon to play the these of quarry dust to top the in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Labour Party Government in government. This happened in pivotal role that the Sheriff has surface of the extended portion powerful Sheriff did not know this. the event that Mr. Lindsay 1980 (PAM/NRP) and again in mapped out for him. of the runway at the Vance When the Sheriff realised that Grant lost his case against the 1993 (PAM/NRP). The Sheriff has been Amory International Airport. he had his knickers in a twist, he was not gracious at all. His Hon. Glenn Phillip. The Hon Patrice Nisbett did bellyaching on and on about That was a disaster. Certain response to the situation was to Our worthy Sheriff failed to not help to form the present VAT and the fact that no prior planes could not land or take- say that the Labour Party mention what would happen to Federal Government. The Hon. discussion with the general off from the extended runway Patrice Nisbett simply joined a Government is blaming Nevis for the Labour Party Government public has taken place. My as grits were flying off the the size of the National Debt. You Labour Party Government that in the event that the Labour response to that is this: runway into the engines of the see how the Sheriff tries to lift the Party wins its case against the existed before he accepted the Did PAM ever practise such a planes. standard of public debate? Hon. Eugene Hamilton in invitation by the Honourable policy? Did PAM abolish Personal Before the runway The Sheriff must learn the true Constituency No. 8. Prime Minister to be part of his Income Tax? Did PAM discuss extension was completed, and proper role of the Leader of Although the Sheriff began Cabinet. with the social partners concerned nobody heard the Sheriff the Opposition and not criticise Dr. whether to impose a Social by mentioning two (2) electoral In countries like France and advising his party that the Denzil Douglas in his private and cases, he discussed the matter Israel, Coalition Governments Services Levy? personal capacity. The Sheriff Did PAM conduct Town Hall Premier should host a series of as if only one (1) case is collapse when one or the other should also cease and desist from Meetings to ascertain the views Town Hall meetings to be parties to the Coalition using his Wednesday night VON involved and went on to explain of the electorate before passing in informed of the proper material withdraw. The government can Show as a medium for promoting the difficulty that he considered Parliament “The House of to top the surface of the his own political interests and the only continue in office if another the Labour Party Government Assembly Elections Ordinance extended portion of the runway interests of his PAM Coalition would be in, if PAM won the party or other parties agree to (Amendment) Act 1983”? at the Vance Amory partners. 8 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 Kittitian farmers have advantage over their regional peers

BASSETERRE ST. KITTS (April 12, 2010) — An official of the Caribbean Farmers Network (CaFAN) is of the view that even though St. Kitts has only recently turned into non-sugarcane agriculture, because of its farmers’ organisation and relatively young ages, the country has an advantage over its Caribbean neighbours who have been into Jethro Greene (standing left) addressing farmers at the St. Johnson’s Community Centre agriculture for a long time. “There is one thing about St. Kitts that I like,” said Jethro Greene, CaFAN’s Chief Coordinator. “Because you are new in non-sugarcane agriculture in an organised way, a lot of you are receptive to new business ideas. And because you are very receptive to new business ideas, it is easy to build new modules.” Greene observed that it has been a challenge to introduce new modules in a country like Dominica where food agriculture has been a business for a long time. He told Kittitian farmers: “You do not have some of the bad habits that are into some of organised agriculture. You have a chance to start something new to your advantage.” The regional official who was in St. Kitts last week where he held several meeting with stakeholders in the agriculture sector, also met with members of the St. Kitts Farmers Cooperative Society Ltd at the St. Johnson’s Community Centre where he held candid talks with them and pledged CaFAN’s support. He told the farmers that despite the many negative things that are said about St. Kitts and farming, he had in the few days he was in the country seen strides in the agriculture sector that impressed him. He observed that farmers in St. Kitts were more organised than in many of the countries that he has visited in his line of duty. The CaFAN official said that in many countries the sector has been “so subsidised and politicised that you cannot separate the farmers from the politicians.” From his observation he noted that in St. Kitts the farmers were standing out on their own in several areas, but gave them this advice: “I want you not to get too close to politics and politicians, but do not be too tight on them. Respect all of them and steer above politics.” “The other thing that I think you have an advantage is that in some of the countries that we work, the farmers’ average age is 65, in some countries 60. In St. Kitts, I see an average of 45 or 47, which means you have a young working agriculture population. That is another good sign. From what I have seen, it seems as if you have a more young farming population than most of the islands.” Greene who was introduced to the meeting by the president of the St. Kitts Farmers Cooperative Society Limited, Arabella Nisbett, told the meeting that potential is good and that opportunities are available in St. Kitts. With the several major corporations and allied agencies on the ground in St. Kitts, he implored the farmers to have a plan of action, “because we have to move from guesswork to more practical application and technology.” According to the general secretary of the St. Kitts Farmers Cooperative Society Limited, Joseph O’Flaherty, who gave an outline of the society’s activities, it has 45 members and the number is steadily growing. The meeting was also attended by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Lloyd Lazar, director of cooperatives Antonio Wilson, an IT consultant with CaFAN, Telojo ‘Telly’ Onu, and treasurer of the Society, Deslyn Richard.

President of St. Kitts Farmers Cooperative Society Limited, Arabella Nisbett, introduces Jethro Greene (sitting to her left) The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - NEWS - 9 Local farmers urged to turn Adult Learners Motivated agriculture into a viable industry At Symposium By Melissa Amsterdam Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 12, 2010 (SKNIS): The students enrolled in the Adult and Continuing Education (ACE) Division of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) were encouraged to apply themselves and make the sacrifices necessary to become successful in their courses of study. At a Motivational Symposium held under the theme “Time + Hard Work = Success,” Acting CFBC Principal Mrs. Sonia Boddie-McPhail noted that the adult learners have a challenging task. She accepted that they have to balance course assignments and studying against fulltime jobs and work in the home which often included devoting time to spouses and children. The CFBC Principal empathized that these learners also have numerous other commitments. However, she highlighted that because of their maturity, they are often goal-oriented, and their upgraded education is being used as a life improvement tool. The additional qualification can be used towards acquiring a job, a better job, a promotion or even the ability to assist one’s children with their homework. The Principal acknowledged that the students perceived education as a vehicle for personal growth and development. She explained that the symposium would provide study tips, time management strategies and effective study methods. CaFAN representative, Jethro Greene, speaking at an agriculture forum at OTI on ACE Administrative Officer, Mrs. Selma Broadbelt, gave the th background of the Symposium, informing that it commenced two years Tuesday 6 , April. previously when the ACE staff consulted about new methods to motivate adult learners. She noted that the resulting event uses particular ways of encouraging learning with, objectives being to take adult students away from the classroom setting to discuss ways of maximizing their time leading up to exams; to allow successful adults to share their experiences as a way of motivating others; and to give pointers to adult learners of how to sit exams successfully. Minister of Education and Information Honourable Nigel Carty told students that their presence indicated the value of education and that it was important to their individual and collective well-being. He emphasized that they were present because they knew that education opened doors and expands opportunities for themselves and their families. Like the previous speakers, he noted that with their upgraded qualifications, ACE students would be able to pursue desired careers, access University-level education and obtain higher paying jobs. Minister Carty declared that he was proud of the fact that all citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis have access to education and training unlike other parts of the world. He advised that an organized approach to studying was best and encouraged students to create a daily schedule that includes a “to do list” made up of classroom assignments, past papers to be used as revision tools. He urged them to create a mantra of “I will not procrastinate, but I will do it today, I will do it as soon as possible.” Other bits of advise offered by the Education Minister included bringing family and friends on board and creating rosters to share the housework. Representatives of the agriculture sector after a forum held at OTI. CFBC Counsellor Mrs. Sonia Herbert conducted a session on Time Management while Assessment Specialist Mr. Randy Taylor presented Local farmers are being urged become agriculturally centered and Caribbean farmers, St. Kitts-Nevis Learning Styles, Study Skills and Examination Techniques. by the Caribbean Farmers Network urged small farmers to come farmers were more open to new (CaFAN) to turn their agricultural together and become successful agriculture business ideas. He pursuits into a viable industry. business men. encouraged farmers and farmer CaFAN representative, Jethro The CaFAN official said that cooperative represented during Greene, who is renowned across the Federation has a lot of under the forum to make agriculture a the region for his proactive nature utilized agriculture land and “viable business”. and experience in the area, headed pointed out that while touring the “For too long, we have let the a forum with local farmers, the island he noticed that farmers are Ministry of Agriculture run things Ministry of Agriculture and other very cooperative. for us. You are farmers, you are agricultural related entities on business people. Get the family Tuesday 6th, at OTI. With this he suggested a involved in the farming and turn it “I came here to challenge the farmers’ market would be a viable into a successful, viable St. Kitts farmers to not just sit opportunity, “I know some times business,” he added. down and accept the menial things it is hard to work together but we Greene acknowledged that St. that have been dished out to are looking into joint marketing,” Kitts-Nevis has a very bright farmers, but to upgrade he said, “we are thinking about future in agriculture. He advised themselves to a sophisticated level setting up a farmers market”. that farmers should improve their where they can build businesses standards and food production in that can make money through To accomplish this, Greene order to approach hotels and tap SKNIS Photo: Minister of Education Honourable Nigel Carty and organized and planned systems of said that farm lands should be set into regional markets. CFBC Acting Principal Sonia Boddie-McPhail production and marketing,” Greene aside, something, he said, the A plan of action is expected to said at the forum. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. the be produced from the St. Kitts Greene noted that while the Hon. Timothy Harris, who has a Farmers Cooperative Society Ltd. ADVERTISE WITH US Federation is relatively new to strong commitment to agriculture, for its members to be allied with agriculture and relied mostly on is willing to do. the regional agricultural effort. tourism it is a prime destination to Greene recognized unlike most LABOUR SPOKESMAN 10 - COMMENTARY - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 ‘watered down’ or even lost, these linkages are not “The Illusion of a Watered Down communicated. It may even be a case of people assuming that these family truths are common knowledge, so there is Society but yet we are all really one no need for discussion when in fact they really are not. As we migrate to other villages, towns, regionally and internationally those family linkages may become weakened. generation.” Our children and our children’s children may have no idea of the origins of their family. Do you remember that “once By Mutryce A. Williams ago,” you would visit or take an outing to see your grandmother’s sister and her family who lived in Tabernacle Over the years we have heard the cries, “We need more African history taught in our those who have changed or Mansion? The relatives who had moved to Basseterre schools. Enough with this European, colonial system thing I say. What good does learning the West Indian landscape, would return on the weekend or on a holiday to visit. Do about Christopher Columbus, De Poincey and Sir Thomas Warner do? It is an insult to us and those who have made you remember when parents used to send their children to as a people, to continue teaching this to our children.” We lament, “We need to know the West Indian archipelago visit their families in the country-side or Nevis for Christmas, where we came from.” one steeped rich in Easter or summer break? We have even started movements with the objective of getting our voices heard on this visionaries and Nobel I often wonder. Is this practice still prevalent? This was matter. Laureates. done not only to show the children how you grew up but to We have asked for repatriation, chanting “Back to Africa, back to Africa we demand to We want our children to also to maintain the family linkages. I schooled with go.” We have quoted the many songs of Brother Bob, “In this bright future you can’t become more nationalistic individuals whose parents were “from country” but trust forget your past.” and more civic minded. Do me they could not tell you who their families were “from We have parroted the great scholars, “A society that does not know its past will perish. you know what? I duly Adam.” I can recall being in the same class with a girl, with It can never prosper in the future.” support this. Over the years whom I shared the same maternal great grandmother. Over the years there have also been cries to teach our children regional and local there have been studies Our grandparents were siblings, raised by and derived history. We want them to learn more about the West Indian luminaries, the trade unionists, conducted by the various from the same mother’s womb. Our parents were first cousins, historical societies across blood inked from the same lineage, yet neither of us knew the region to map our this. It was only after my mother saw her and mentioned, African lineage. If one has then I told her and her response was a naïve but age the time he or she may even appropriate one, “but you from country and I am from town.” investigate which tribe in I have seen and heard of this happening with other family Africa his or her people were members and friends. The sad thing however is that some descended from, as records of them learnt this information just by stumbling upon it. of this have been unearthed. Too often you hear, “I didn’t know that he was my brother, We have also invested she was my sister, uncle, aunty, grandmother, grandfather heavily in historical archives or I didn’t even know that them there was something to us.” and museums in order to Isn’t this a travesty? Some people may tend to equate this preserve our nation’s to the matriarchal society that we live in, thinking that this history. I applaud these is something that is only akin to paternal or father’s side of efforts. They are actually the family. quite fascinating. It can be said that family linkages by one’s mother’s Do you know what I find side are stronger and much easier traced than those by the quite perplexing? With all of father’s side. This may be attributed to the composition of the efforts to learn so much the society we live in, where more households are headed about our history as a by a female. Although this is true, lack of knowledge of people, many of us are still one’s ancestry is becoming more prevalent on the mother’s quite ignorant of our side as well. Both parents are guilty of not revealing family immediate familial history? I linkages to the younger generation. It was only recently know that there are mothers that I heard of an incident where two young men were who would implore the involved in an incident. fathers of their children to It resulted in the death of one of the young men. tell those children who their The elderly lady with whom I was having a conversation siblings are so that they lamented in anguish, “Massa God, look me sin and trouble would not grow up to ya? Them there is one generation, it can’t wash out, and “friend” or get involved with them young neagre don’t even self know it. Them there their own brother or sister. I mother and father is two sister children that you know, look am not only referring to this there the boy life gone now, this ya just like Cain kill Abel.” linkage. I am discussing Who knows, if they knew of this linkage that fatality could family linkages as a whole. have been prevented. There are some of us who Conversations that I have had over the years have have such limited sparked my interest in this issue. A few years ago in a knowledge of our ancestry. conversation with my caretaker/adopted Aunt Pearlita As we move more (Baby) Francis, she began mapping out her family history towards the nuclear family for me. I must admit, I knew who her brothers and sisters and single family headed were but the many linkages that there were and the households some of the connections that she had with other families in the village benefits of having that were astounding. extended family have been I became quite engrossed in the conversation, as she diluted. There are no great- also began to relay other family linkages in the village. grandmothers, I sat in awe. I exclaimed, “Oh but I didn’t know I just grandmothers or Tanties thought that they were good friends. I didn’t know that who would sit and map out they were brother and sister, aunt or uncle, cousin. I didn’t our family tree with us, and know that they were something to each other me arm.” even if there are we have The issue came up again recently when I was “old grown so individualistic that talking” with my friend Benrick Francis who hails from the we no longer see the need same village and he began to trace his family linkages, again for such information. For I was in awe. I know these people but for the most part I whatever reason, maybe thought that they just got along very well. His sisters are because family members great friends with this lady and I thought that that was all to ‘had a falling out’ years ago, the relationship. I did not know that they were all sisters maybe family members who shared the same father. I thought, “well isn’t that migrated overseas or even something!” migrated within St. Kitts and There is a lot that can be learnt from these linkages that Nevis and as a result the family connections got (cont’d on next page) The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 11 II. As a mate, she has to has made it difficult for men to households THE ROLE OF YOUNG WOMEN balance the positions that she challenge and thereby redefine . No male role models holds and offer some sacrifice in their roles and responsibilities in . Music that speaks to trials IN HELPING MARGINALISED order to lift her mate up. According order to match the times and the hae a different end message – no to Steve Harvey, men are challenges they now face. more peace and upliftment but now YOUNG MEN motivated by three P’s – provide, - The female gender has replaced with fight and Basseterre, St. Kitts, 7April 2010: protect and profess. When a man benefitted from a Liberalization degradation loves a woman, he would profess Movement that challenged their . Acquiescence of the PRESENTATION AT to those who matter to him about traditional role and created a new society to mediocrity from males THE ROTARY CLUB OF the love that he has. He would reality for the gender. I argue that So, as the female gender LIAMUIGA DURING protect and provide for the one he the Women’s Liberation contributed to the problem, we ROTARY LITERACY cares for, so he should be allowed Movement has been able to must be present for the solution, MONTH BY AZILLA to do this. dominate and therefore go too far so that what is sustained can be a III. As the example, she as men have not benefitted from a reality we can all function within. CLARKE, SOCIAL becomes committed to value and similar experience. The woman’s WORKER the portrayal and the embodiment movement has challenged the The caution to this is: I am pleased to be invited today of the way she wants to be treated. traditional role of women and - Every revolution or to make a presentation on the The problems of today’s males made us to believe that we can do movement shifts the equilibrium of topic: “The Role of Young Women are numerous and well known. all things whereas men have been life in helping marginalized young Therefore, it would be remiss of pigeonholed into their traditional - Such a shift must be men”. As a debater, it is my nature me not to outline my thoughts on roles. So when women encroach planned and involve a consistent to break down the key words in the moot point in order to better this issue: upon traditional male areas then monitoring and evaluation of the understand the topic, so that is where I started: - Gender Socialization: this there is conflict and this is what change in order to ensure that it is • Role: The functions, tasks to be completed and concept has challenged the male we are experiencing: meeting the needs that gave rise positions to be undertaken gender. It has set such one sided . Men as nurses to the revolution • Young men and women: Youth in St. Kitts and Nevis is defined as mandates that any male who . It is okay to cry versus rap - Change is the only 10 – 35 years of age refuses to stand in line would be music constant in life so we should not • Marginalized: restricted academically, ridiculed. The change between the - Women’s liberation has fear it but embrace the potential economically or socially tough, macho young boy who has been hijacked and in some areas is - Dialogue must also be So, the topic now re-reads as “The functions or positions to be no apology and the sensitive, eroding values instead of ensuring present and constant for this is the undertaken by young women 10 – 35 in helping young men 10 – 35 that gentleman of teen and young rights and responsibilities. surest way to lessen the fears are restricted academically, economically and socially”. adulthood never seem to - Young men are like ships associated with change The functions or positions to be undertaken are as follows: reconcile. with no sail: I. A Friend: Male and female have been socialized to not be friends - The absence of a . Absentee fathers Production of the Rotary Club but it is imperative that we cross that gender divide and show support, “liberalization” movement for men . Single female headed of Liamuiga gain and impart understanding amongst the sexes. II. A Mate: To be dedicated to empower by helping them to grow - I have been reading Steve Harvey’s “Act Like A Lady – Think Like a Man” along with Hill Harper’s “The Conversation”. These books aim at trying to unravel the mystery of male-female relationships. - Women are always trying to find the key to a man’s heart and that search has resulted in some varying results but we still have a role to play. - We have to be the equal and the peer of our males for together we are stronger than apart. - Sometimes it would require us to step back, stand beside or lead – but no matter the position we have to assure our mate of his masculinity. III. The Example: If we want to be respected by men or fellow women we have to exemplify the behaviour that we want to see occur - We have to uphold and live the values - We have to be the change we want to see in the world - If we want respect, then we have to show and command it By choosing any one or a combination of roles the task is clear: I. As a friend, a young woman is able to create an avenue for understanding, knowledge sharing and respect between the sexes. It has always been stated that respect breeds understanding.

The Illusion of a Watered Down Society (cont’d from last page) may assist in our present and future relationships. After having my son my interest in this issue grew tenfold because some day I would have to sit and trace his family tree with him. Both of his parents are from the same village. His maternal grandmother and his paternal grandparents are also from the same village. In reflecting on my conversation with Pearlita, who I discovered is his relative, I began tracing those linkages and I was totally in awe. When I was finished, I took a deep breath and exclaimed, “no matter how you turn it, my child has a linkage to almost every family in this village.” What I found interesting however is that I relayed some of these linkages to his father, and I realized that he too was ignorant to a lot of this information. The thing that alarms me however is that with many of the older heads passing on to the great beyond, and with this widening gap between that generation and ours, this bit of our very important history is being lost. There is nothing wrong with learning about European, African, West Indian or national history. If we really want to know who we are or from whence we came we should really put some effort into tracing our immediate history. If we take the time to trace our ancestry we will discover that there is really just the illusion of a watered down society. We are really one people, one blood, and one generation. 12 - ADVERTISEMENT - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - ADVERTISEMENT - 13 BRING IT BUS TOUR STOPS IN THE CIRCUS ON APRIL 13, 2010

Corporate Communications officer-Clement Ogarro is certainly having fun with the enthusiastic “Bring It” crowd downtown Basseterre during the second of four Bus Tours planned for St Kitts in support of the ICC WT20 matches in St Kitts from May 5-10..

Popular cricket fan “Lulu” shows off her “Bring It’ T-shirt flanked by the hosts of the second “Bring It” Bus Tour at the Circus downtown Basseterre.

One of the young fans who had no doubt that Stephanie Taylor is the highest ranked female player in Two lucky cricket fans from the West Indies female team. She England showing off their prized got it right and won herself a possession “Bring It” T-shirt. 14 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 legal system, justice department, every citizen and resident of this PM Douglas commits US Federal Bureau of Investigation Federation were ever needed, we (FBI) and other related bodies that know that that need emerges to justice of violent are on the front lines of the battle whenever anyone in the against violent crime. Federation is killed and that time According to him, prominent is most certainly now,” he said. crime victims and pivotal in the American battle He went on to say “By the same (Labour Secretariat) The St.Kitts/Nevis Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil L. against these creeping and token however, every man and Douglas while speaking on Tuesday’s ‘Ask The PM’ radio show assured sometimes galloping woman who has been highly family members of violent crime victims that justice will be effectively manifestation of inhumanity are elected or nominated to parliament pursued. the U.S Centres for Disease to grabble with issues as important “I commit to their families and to the nation that the full force of the Control. as taxing and complex as fighting law and the full weight of our security apparatus and its criminal justice St.Kitts/Nevis Prime Minister, “But when we think about it crime, must be made to know first system would be brought to bear to solve these cases,” he outlined. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas we realize that this is really most hand, the importance of being in The St.Kitts/Nevis leader said like much of the country, he is deeply fitting because it is first and the National Assembly whenever saddened by the violent deaths and has extended deepest sympathy. other crimes that we have had to foremost a general disintegration Parliament is in session- doing the Dr. Douglas said all those responsible for these unspeakable acts of confront and as we look with in the minds and the souls of work that they are being paid to brutality would be effectively pursued, captured and dealt within the concern and sympathy at other specific individuals that results in do and treating with respect and parameters of the law. inexplicable expressions of these types of acts of brutality,” honour the sacred role bestowed “Whoever was responsible for these acts of violence- these persons brutality throughout the he noted. upon them by the people. The role meeting such untimely death- must be made to know first hand not only Caribbean and the rest of the world PM Douglas called for the of Parliamentarians in the National the feel of the handcuffs around their wrists but also the feel of a noose and brought to the attention of collective work of all of us in the Assembly of the Federation of St. around their necks as provided for under the law of this Federation, if citizens here, the fact that with the community in helping to tackle the Christopher and Nevis, the people our court system so rules,” he remarked. United States for example, it is not social ill of crime and violence. of St. Kitts and Nevis, they He pinpointed that as we reflect on these recent crimes and all the only that country’s prison system, “If the keen eyes and ears of deserve no less.”

get past that stage then everything is relatively easy sailing but then we Nevis’ leadership in need to look at the financing opportunity, how we can engage the institutions in the region to support the development of the various renewable energy opportunities whether its wind, solar, geothermal, whatever. “I think we have enough renewable energy resources within the region to satisfy our energy needs into the future. If it’s done properly, initiatives in OECS [it] requires some planning, some advance thinking, some monies of course and with Minister Powell [responsible for Renewable Energy on encouraging, says Official Nevis] leading the charge, we can get there. I think Nevis has definitely shown its metal in this instance and demonstrated what could be done if CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (APRIL 15, 2010) — Head of the OECS we put our backs to it,” he said. Secretariat’s Environmental and Sustainable Development Unit based in St. Lucia Mr. Keith Nichols, described as encouraging Nevis’ advances in renewable energy initiatives. An area in which, he noted, the small island state continued to lead the entire Organisation of East Caribbean Federation’s Top Cop States (OECS) grouping. His comment came in a recent interview with the Department of Information when he gave his impressions of the strides Nevis had calls for greater made in the development of geothermal and wind energy. “I think that is really, really good. There is a model I think that has business sector been developed, the negotiations that have been entered into, the Head of the OECS Secretariat’s agreements that are in place to support the developments both for Environmental and Sustainable partnership in the fight geothermal and wind, and we are seeing tangible evidence of Development Unit based in St. development...It is something I think the rest of the region has to learn Lucia Mr. Keith Nichols from. against crime “There is a tremendous amount of work I know we have to do in the “Right now the Orgainsation rest of the region and to bring our initiatives up to speed. It is not of American States is active in the enough to keep talking and talking about where we want to go, I think region helping with policy we need to start to get serious about implementing some of those development. The Caricom initiatives,” he said. Secretariat through its Caribbean The OECS Official said in light of the rapidly increasing price of oil Renewable Energy Development the region would find itself envious of what Nevis had achieved so far Project is supported by the German with renewable energy and considerations in that critical area would Government through the GEC. once again be placed on the front burner. They are aggressively looking for He explained that his office which was planning two high level alternatives for renewable energy meetings in Nevis on October, one for technicians followed by another within the region and financing for Environment Ministers of the region, would have the opportunity to some of those options in the expose the decision makers of the strides Nevis had made with renewable islands as well. energy development and encourage them to advance more aggressively, “The OECS Secretariat is also that work that had started in some of the countries. looking to put in place its own “We really need to do it, we are losing time and it is costing us a sustainable energy programme Commissioner of Police on St. Kitts and Nevis Mr. Austin Williams whole lot more while we keep paying the extra high prices for oil in the that will help add on or augment hands over the keys to the five new vehicles he received from Premier region. I think there is a demonstration effect that Nevis has showed to the benefits of the initiatives that of Nevis Hon. Joseph Parry moments earlier to Commanding Officer all of us [that] it can be done. are being pursued under the earlier of the Nevis Police Division Inspector Hilroy Brandy “They are going ahead and the country is pursuing those mentioned projects,” he said. arrangements very aggressively and will have something in place that According to Mr. Nichols, CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (APRIL 14, 2010) — A call was made to the we will all be jealous of in the next few months. So hopefully that will there was still a tremendous Federation’s business sector to partner with the Police, in their continued serve as a catalyst to moving ahead our various initiatives in the rest of amount of work to be done. Among efforts to provide effective security and a safe working and living the Region,” he said. them were the will to eliminate the environment for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. Notwithstanding, Mr. Nichols contended that the region lacked the barriers which stood in the way of Commissioner of Police in St. Kitts and Nevis Mr. Austin Williams financial resources to support local initiatives and the islands were forced adopting renewable energy made the call Monday when he received keys for five new Jeeps from to look beyond for funding in the area of renewable energy development. technology in the region. the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) on behalf of the Nevis Police He explained that there were energy meetings all over the region and “We need to look at Division. the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat had installed an Energy legislation, we need to look at “We are committed to raising the level of service we provide to the Unit which had been pursuing renewable initiatives very aggressively institutional frameworks, we need through some funded programmes in the region. to look at policies, and if we can (cont’d on page 20) The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 15 It Takes A Community To Solve A Law and Order, a Crime. Bring Back Ivan Hanley priority and challenge By: Sotto Voce for the Government The best detective we have ever had in my time here is ex-Inspector Ivan Hanley who now lives at Pond Lesroy W. Williams Pasture in Basseterre. Basseterre (March 30, 2010)—St. Kitts and Nevis is not immune His salary was not as big as what his equals get now. He did not have as many vehicles available for use to escalating crime in the Caribbean and its negative impact. as are there now. The Police Stations were not in as good a condition as they are now. Yet he worked diligently Caribbean governments are very concerned that crime can and honestly at his job and the results were there to show for it. destroy their fragile economies, made even more fragile by the present I believe that his expertise should be tapped at this time. He should be contracted for the next 2 years or so, global economic crisis. to head that branch of our police service. I am sure the young officers therein can learn the trade at his feet. I With many Caribbean countries relying on tourism as their main am confident that all crimes committed while he is there will show positive results and a high percentage level income generator, the issue of crime is even more troubling, as crime, of convictions will be realised. especially violent crime, can turn away tourists. His experience and practical know-how are invaluable at this time. His personal knowledge of the ins and With financial constraints and porous borders, the issue of drug outs of each community is unparallel. People trust his integrity and would feel secure in giving him vital and gun trafficking is an even more daunting challenge for Caribbean information they don’t trust his contemporaries with. He has no axe to grind and he never played politics with Governments to stem. his work. He was a genuine professional. However, the region is trying its best with their limited resources I invite the new Minister of National Security to use the services of this local detective icon and he will not and the help of each other and the international community. Because regret it. Some people know their job, know what works, and know how to solve crime here. I am really of the many constraints, the main ones being finance and professional passionate about getting detection work back in track with results to show for it. That’s what Ivan Hanley will training, the region’s best often falls short. bring. In the 2010 Budget, Minister of Finance, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Let’s face it, we have had persons here with the confidence and know-how about their work and produced Denzil Douglas said that a total of $46, 976,686 was allocated to the excellent results. Public confidence in them was high. Ministry of National Security, Immigration and Labour to carry out When Dr. C. M. Sebastian was in charge of our hospitals; whether at Pogson, Cunningham or J.N.F., we its various activities. had less complaints about service to the public. He did not mince matters and was not averse to pulling Despite its limited resources, the Government “continues to seek anybody in line. The public loved him for it. support regionally and internationally,” Dr. Douglas said. When Justice Satrohan Singh worked here as a Puisne Judge, he was known for the speed and competence Although overall crime was down 18 percent, “the present he displayed in getting the job done. He met a 10-yer backlog of Civil Cases. He brought all that work back in escalation in gun-related crimes attributed to gangs has become a line in under 2 years. His criminal work remains an example to us all and an act not easily followed. major preoccupation of the Ministry,” Dr. Douglas said. I believe he can get our criminal work back on track in short order. His services ought to be utilised at this Dr. Douglas, who was the former Minister of National Security, time if possible, to get the huge load of cases done. We should use the services and expertise of those who are gave the assurance in the Budget Address that the Anti-Gang Unit still willing and able to work in areas of greatest need. and the Strike Force will continue their efforts to rid the streets of I also believe we need to get 2 short-term temporary Magistrates to assist those now in office in getting rid firearms and to dismantle gangs. of the huge backlog of preliminary inquiries. Part of the problem with the impact of crime on our society is the “Much is demanded from our Security Forces in their unrelenting unfortunate length of time between the arrest of accused persons and their actual date of trial. That has a very efforts to rid our communities of criminal elements and to preserve negative impact on the society and the chance of a successful conviction thereafter. These are matters I wish the peace and tranquility that our communities have been I had the privilege to raise in the right quarters. But I am no lawyer. accustomed to. My Government intends to continue giving them all I am very concerned about this crime wave that is sweeping through our country at this time. It is really the support they need including training, equipment and modern serious. True, we are not alone. It seems to be like a flu virus travelling around all our Caribbean Islands. The facilities to allow them to do an effective job,” Dr. Douglas said. worst thing outside of the crime itself is the politics that some people play with it. Who not blaming Dr. The present Minister of National Security, Deputy Prime Minister Douglas and Labour, counting and comparing numbers over the years. How that helps, beats me. on. Sam Condor, has made a passionate appeal for all stakeholders The Bloods vs. The Crypts which our youngsters have copied and adopted in their gang warfare is at the including parents, teachers, friends, guardians, religious leaders and root. I gather from those claiming knowledge of their trends and happenings, that one group now calls all concerned members of the society to help in the eradication of themselves “Gaza”, and the other has now been split into the “KMS” and the “Tek Life”. Heaven help us. crime by steering our young people in the right direction. But these youngsters all come from homes right here. Not in the sky or on a distant planet. They all have Minister Condor in a recent presentation to Cabinet said that the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, lovers, etc., who all know of their gang involvement, their associates, how inefficiency and responsiveness of the Security Forces need to be or where they eat and sleep. investigated. Yet when some unfortunate, but not unexpected event happens, some of us bring out our hypocrisy on In his recommendations to Cabinet, Minister Condor said that display and pretend that they were different. We bring out our party cards and milk each incident for as much (1) restructuring the crime fighting units to improve synergy and political capital as we can get. What a shame! achieve greater overall effectiveness (2) re-organizing human The condolences flow literally and in the few cases where the killer is captured, the sympathies flow freely resources in both the Defence Force and the Police Force and (3) too. And whether it is on a Talk Show, or in a newspaper column, or even in a Budget Debate in Parliament, the reinforcing and further underscoring law enforcement activities could political blame game is the order of the day. The families and associates walk away untainted and unaffected help to improve the delivery of the Security Forces. for their roles in it all. The truth is that it takes a community to raise a child, and it also takes that same community to solve a crime. There are persons in all the communities who know the details of each shooting incident, including the identities of the killers/gunmen. And this is so whether the incident occurs in town or country, whether in the day or in the night. I have said it before. The solution and the end to our crime problem lie within all of us. We need to be upfront and honest and make the effort to cleanse each of our communities from within. The criminals should radio 1 not be given any comfort or quarter. Families need to purge themselves and give no shelter or protection to the In One known bad-eggs. Keeping them around will serve only to spoil the good ones. InTunedWith If the communities fail to purge themselves in this way, things may only get worse and our suffering will 94.1FM increase. There is no other way. We all need to be straight-up and confront the issue with the degree of seriousness required. There is no political solution to it. Playing politics with it can help no one. No votes in damaged and Simms seriously revealed that the cause of death it for anyone. So the political masquerades are off-key, off-beat and off-course. Clearly, they are not getting the injured. Measurements and the was septic shock due to duodenal message. extent of the damage were perforation. recorded on the scene. Simms was hired as a horse He was then transported to the trainer at the Beaumont Park here Simms who resided at Parsons J.NF General Hospital by the at Dieppe Bay and was also a Jamaican horse trainer Village, was traveling along the Emergency Medical Services trainer in Nevis. He is survived by Island Main road in Saddlers (EMS) where he was detained and his mother, two children and Village in his vehicle (PA 8793) was in serious condition. He common law wife. dies one week after car when he collided with a concrete succumbed to his injures exactly A memorial service in his a native of Jamaica and a horse wall fence in the vicinity of Aller’s one week later. honour is slated for sometime next accident trainer at Beaumont Park died on Shop. Police received reports of Resident pathologist, Dr. week at the Lighthouse Baptist Friday, April 9th after being the single vehicular accident and Adrian Nunez Quintana, By Charles Miller Jr Church in Sandy Point. His body involved in a vehicular accident on arrived on the scene to find Simms’ performed an autopsy the same will be flown back to his homeland Rupert Alphonso Simms (45), Good Friday, April 2nd, 2010. Grand Vitaro jeep extensively day of Simms’ passing. Reports of Jamaica, where he will be buried. 16 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 United Nation’s UNIFEM Invites the campaign. The second day will Retirement planning: be used to film public service Masud Sadiki To Barbados For announcements (PSAs) that will be what it is important to know used to raise public awareness A Two-Day Consultation throughout the region. by Elvin Bailey Some of the other artistes Kittitian conscious Reggae star Masud Sadiki, will be travelling to participating in the consultation I vividly recall my first day on my first time job. I was 17 and had just Barbados on Monday 12th April, 2010 to join forces with other top were David Rudder, Allison Hinds, accepted a teaching job at the newly designated Gingerland High School. Caribbean artistes in a two-day consultation dubbed “Caribbean Artistes Destra Garcia, Claudette Peters, My boss assigned me the 4A2 class as my first assignment: to teach UNiTE to End Violence against Women”. These sessions well held on Patrice Roberts, Edwin Yearwood them Biology. Nothing, and I repeat nothing, that I had done before Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th April 2010. and Nelly Star. Trinidad and prepared me to face the cold stares of 20 something 16 & 17 year olds - During the first day of the consultation, Masud and his fellow artistes Tobago, St Vincent and the some of whom I had pitched marbles with in my formative years. At that were briefed on the Secretary General’s campaign as well as UNIFEM’s Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, time, retirement planning was the furthest thing from my mind. All I work to end violence against women. Another objective is to gain the St Kitts and Nevis and Dominica wanted to do was survive! artistes’ expertise to generate ideas about creative tools and activities were the countries that were I knew about retirement: I knew that I could serve 25 years, leave and that can be used to promote ending violence against women through represented. get a ‘good’ pension. I envisioned myself getting pension money at age 42. I didn’t want any deductions (it was NPF then) to be made from my $300.00 per month pay either. I was young, headstrong, believed in my the Lord. Psalms 150:6 invincibility and did not need any help from anybody. And then life Have Faith Father God you have given us; happened. Thirty four years later, I am still at work, and setting targets Written by Floy Hensley A new commandment I give unto for my imminent withdrawal from the labour market. I am thankful too, you, That ye love one another; as that the deductions were made from my wages throughout the years, I have loved you, that ye also love and I am already calculating my pension based on the formula I shared Faith: “Faith is the evident of things not seen” one another. St John 13:34. Father with you in the Pension Mathematics article. Now, I have something to Hebrews 11:1 God you would not leave us here look forward to, despite the vicissitudes of life. For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will on earth living in ignorant because An important part of your retirement planning ought to be to secure recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. it stated; But the comforter, which your pension from Social Security. To do so, you must ensure that your It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Hebrews 10:30- is the Holy Ghost, whom the contributions are paid, and are paid in full. While the law places this 31. Father will send in my name, he burden on the employer, it is in the best interest of the employee to Greetings in the wonderful and precious name of Jesus Christ to all shall teach you all things, and assist the Board to make sure that these payments are made by checking in the federation of St kitts and Nevis, Caribbean nationals, international bring all things to your with us and with the employer (through the wage slip) periodically. Check, and new readers to this colum. This is not one to put fear in you but one remembrance, whatsoever I have but not confront! that would make you have more faith in God. But without faith it is said unto you. St John 14:26. It is useful to have an idea of the standard of living you wish to impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he Father God we want to continue pursue in retirement. Of course it would be useful to have cleared payment is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews to display the; fruit of the spirit is of mortgages, car loans, educational loans and so on by the time the 11:6. love, joy, peace, longsuffering, retirement or pension age comes along. I recognize that this will require I am not here to judge anyone lifestyle because it says; Judge not, gentleness, goodness, faith, a level of maturity not easily seen in today’s youth. that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be Meekness, temperance: against Pensions, in a defined benefit system such as ours, depend on the judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you such there is no law. Galatians 5:22- length of time worked and the salary worked for. And as it is currently again. St Matthew 7:1-2. 23. Father God the message is structured, a person requires 500 contributions to obtain a pension. In The God that we serve knows and see’s it all and would not give you being preach to all; Be not 2009, of the 284 persons who attained exit age, 78 persons (27.5%) fell more that you can bear and would fight your battles for you daily and deceived: God is not mocked: for short of that 500 mark, and qualified for Age Grant, while 10 (3.5%) would deliver you from all danger. All you need is continuous faith and whatsoever a man soweth, that received Elderly Refund (these will be explained in subsequent confident in the true and living God and see great results come your shall he also reap. galatians 6:7. discourse). In other words, one in three of the elderly persons in that way. Father God we know that we year did not qualify for a pension. Sadly, our historical records suggest This is not the time to take matters in your own things where your wrestle not against flesh and that some of them will return to seek an Assistance Pension because situation is concern because revenge is not yours and judge them not blood, but against principalities, they and their money would soon be parted. Furthermore, for some of but allow God to fight your battles for you because He is more than against powers, against the rulers these individuals, a period of their working life has been hidden – by capable to do so. of the darkness of this world, collusion - from Social Security; it may have been sufficient to have Too many times we want to take matters in our own hands and God against spiritual wickedness in qualified them for a monthly pension. Sadly, only a few persons have gave us the remedy; If my people, which are called by my name, shall high places. Ephesians 6:12. That’s availed themselves of the Voluntary contribution opportunity in order to humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their why you have urge us to put on qualify for or enhance their pension. wicked ways: then will I hear from heaven, and ;will forgive their sin, and the whole armor daily for Another important aspect of planning for retirement is to save. Save will heal their land. 2nd Chronicles 7:14. protection. Thank you Father God so that you have rainy day money; save so that you can purchase an God has given us the power and authority to speak into our for the battles that has already annuity. There are not many options currently available within the situations; Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that being won and the victory that country for such a purchase, but representation has been made to Social love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Proverbs 18:21. when you obey God’s belongs to your people today. We Security during its reform discussions to offer such a facility (via a fully word He said; The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he say thank you in no other name voluntary system). delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23. So as you go through the many but Jesus christ of Nazareth, the It is well researched and documented that education is the key to challenges of life God requires you to; Be still, and know that I am God: only begotten son of God. Have a escaping poverty. The argument is that the more educated a person I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. In all bless and productive week in the becomes, the easier it is to escape the poverty trap; and educated people that we go through it’s continuous praise to the Lord on high; Let Lord and know that your miracle tend to enjoy better wages. The better your wage, then the better is the everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Praise ye is here to stay. pension – it is all related. Hence, part of your retirement planning ought to be to invest in your education to the highest level achievable. This cannot be stressed enough! making my mind peaceful, being right, winning arguments instead on generating Next, anchor yourself through investment in real estate, even if it is loving and thoughtful at all times. or having my ideas accepted. It optimistic and kind thoughts, only to own your own home; and do so early. I have seen too many Then I will instinctively matters more that I my life can begin to flow in ever persons have to remain in the work force way past their prime simply know how much time to spend am able to recognize my more positive directions. Such a because of mortgage payments. Do not let this happen to you – plan on my own well-being and how mistakes, take responsibility for light and easy approach to life early to have your mortgage end by the time pension age comes around. much on fulfilling them, learn the lesson and enables me to take everything in PLAN to live long. PLAN for retirement. Learn from history; do not other responsibilities. I can move on with greater maturity. stride. repeat it. only give my best to others when Let your mind relax and enjoy I am myself at my best. EASINESS moments of tranquility. As we grow in strength in our Free yourself from wasteful HONESTY spiritual life, we give up the habit thoughts. LIVING OUR SPIRITUAL VALUES It takes great courage to be of worrying. This is the best type of rest. BALANCE honest. One of the noblest It serves no purpose other qualities in a person is the than to make us feel tense and Meditation Centre; The indication of balance in life is a sense of well-being, optimism ability to say, “I am sorry, I was miserable. When I stop Taylors Village, and a clear conscience. The foundation for achieving this is to look after wrong, you were right”. It doesn’t fretting about things that are myself spiritually – really matter about beyond my control and focus Tel. 466 2550, 661 0933 The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - VIEW POINT - 17 one hand and educate us about (John 14:16). Jesus explicitly He is the beginning, the middle and Half-Truths and the heresy compared himself with the Old the end. He is the true and living VIEW POINT associated with it. Testament name of God. In John’s way; there are truth and life in the In the fourth century the gospel, the phrase “I am” appears way, as well as at the end of it. BY Docetics insisted that Jesus was 24 times. He is the true way to life. Other V. E. INNISS not a real living man who shared Someone once said Without ways may seem right, but the end our human situation and felt our “The Way” there is no going. of them is the way of death. (Prov hurts. Emphasizing his divinity, Without the “TRUTH” there is no 14:12). they said Jesus only seemed to knowing. Without the “LIFE” I trust that our discussion have a human body and that He there is no living. Christ is all. As today has helped to answer the What is Truth? did not actually suffer on the truth is opposed to falsehood and question of Pilate, “What is The words rang out like a vibration of an endless sound wave cross; Contradictory? error, so is Christ. When we Truth?” if this article has helped echoing through the universe on that infamous day/occasion as our This was one manifestation of enquire for truth, we need to learn to answer to “Who is Truth?” then Lord stood before Pilate. I suggest you read the account for yourselves Gnosticism which was essentially no more than the truth as it is in our time spent together was not in in John’s Gospel, Chapter 18. The verse which provides the topic for a striving after system by men who Jesus; as truth is opposed to vain. today reads thus: “Pilate saith unto him (Jesus) what is truth? And when felt impelled to being all truth into fallacy and deceit; as true as truth Will we let the majority sway he (Pilate) had said this, he went out again unto the Jews and saith unto absolute harmony – a temptation itself. Christ is Truth Personified. us; as was the case with Pilate? them, “I find no fault in Him” (John 18:38). that to this day gets us into He is Life, lest we forget; for Will we deny the truth? Will we do So permit me to raise the question again, what is truth? Sir Winston trouble. we are alive unto God only in and what is right? Will we embrace Him, Churchill summed it up this way “Truth is incontrovertible. Panic may Aryanism on the other hand through Christ. So let us before I the Truth, who died unjustly for resent it; ignorance may deride it; malice may distort it; but there it is”. argued that the Son was a finite end, consider these jointly. Christ our sins and rose again from the Can we know the truth? Is truth the elusive goal of man’s fertile being, different from the Father in is the Way, the Truth and the Life. grave? What is your verdict? imagination? Is it something to be grasped and embraced, or is it as essence. In other words, he was fickle as the wind? Pontius Pilate’s question, recorded in John 18:38 has not truly God. The council of haunted mankind almost from the beginning of time. Nicaea was convened in 325 AD, Truth can be known! Truth can be embraced! When Pilate cried out, to sort out the half-truths and Press release from St Kitts “Behold the man” (John 19:5). He was uninvitingly helping to fulfil a develop a statement reflecting the prophecy from Zechariah 6:12. Jesus was the one foretold by that Jewish whole truth. Half of the picture and Nevis Hotel and prophet and identified by Pilate. alone constituted heresy. Only He, (Jesus) is the truth, attested to by the messianic prophecies of together – God/man, divine/human Tourism Association the Jewish Bible. That is why Jesus could proclaim “I am the way, the – did they constitute wholeness. truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John Dr. Mooneyham concluded regarding VAT 14:6). that Christian maturity is not trying Pilate saw a possible way out of his predicament. The perplexing to resolve the conflict between Basseterre April 12th 2010: problem was that he saw no wrong in Jesus’ actions, nor any substance contradictory half-truths, but The Government’s value-added tax (VAT), scheduled to be in the religious leader’s charges. Nevertheless, he tried to separate himself believing them both and holding introduced late this year, was the main topic of a meeting of the St. Kitts from the injustice. “He took water and washed his hands before the them in appropriate tension. and Nevis Hotel and Tourism Association at the Ocean Terrace Inn. multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this innocent person” Heresy it seems to him, results The meeting was attended by more than 40 members of the (Matth 27:24) Poor fellow! when we discard one facet of truth association, which represents hotels, restaurants and other businesses We in this 21st century are in the same place as the participants in in favour of another facet of the with substantial interests in tourism, the federation’s major industry. that trial. Truth can be known! Truth can be embraced! When Pilate same truth. The members’ concerns about the possible impact of the new tax cried out, “Behold the Man!”(John 19:5), he was unwittingly helping to Is there then no such thing as were addressed by a team from the Government office responsible for its fulfil a prophecy from Zechariah, 6:12. Jesus is the truth attested to by an eternal verity? “Of course there implementation. the messianic prophecies of the Jewish Bible as mentioned before, but is,” contends the one time chief The Government representatives, led by Mr. Edward Gift, gave the worth repeating. executive of World Vision HTA members a wide-ranging presentation on the history of VAT in the International. “It resides in a Caribbean – where it has been introduced in a number of islands, including HALF TRUTH person, not in a proposition”. Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Barbados – and elsewhere in the world. Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, etc. .... are familiar Jesus is the truth. He went on to In his budget address last month, the Prime Minister and Minister words to anyone who has served as a jury? Perhaps the oath would be say: My beliefs may be true or they for Finance, Dr. Denzil Douglas, said the new tax would be introduced in better worded “Do you swear that whatever you tell will be true? Since may be only his partial and bias November of this year and that it would simplify and streamline the the “whole” truth cannot easily be compressed into the testimony of interpretation of truth, but federation’s tax system. He said it would replace a wide range of current one person. whichever, they are relative to the taxes, including the consumption tax, the hotel and restaurant tax, cable The whole truth generally is not arrived at simply or without tension. absolute and he does well to treat TV tax, traders’ tax, vehicle rental levy, export and rum duty, It is fair to say based on my gleanings that most often whole truth is them with more humility and less telecommunications levy and parcel tax. made up of contradictory half-truths it is important for us to know that arrogance. The presentation to the HTA was the first of an extensive series of two half-truths do not make a whole truth” (Arthur Koestler). consultations with businesses and citizens before the Government Regular readers of my columns would be disappointed if on a weighty I AM THE TRUTH passes the an act in May and implements the Tax in November. subject like this I did not research the writings of my favourite prolific Those four words introduce us Michael Head, manager of the HTA, said there was a lively question writer Dr. Stan Mooneyham. I am pleased to tell you that in his book, to the actual claim of Christ as and answer session after Mr. Gift and his team gave their presentation. Travelling Hopefully, he wrote on the topic “The heresy of half-truths”. recorded of John 14:6 “I Am the “We want to thank Mr. Gift and his colleagues, they were able to give us He examined the subject from various perspectives. Let me borrow two way, the truth and the life”: no man plenty of information about how VAT will work,” he said. “There is still or three of his views and share them with you to stimulate interest on the cometh unto the Father but by me” much work that needs to be done and many questions left unanswered so further meetings will be held.” 18 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 UK, and heard evidence from 43 Regulation (OUR), of Digicel’s international calls (February, 2010) Cable & Wireless witnesses. appeal to the UK Privy Council on The dismissal of Digicel’s The ruling follows LIME’s interconnection and call contempt of court claims brought Communications wins other recent court victories over termination rates (January, 2010) against officers of LIME in Digicel including: An injunction against Digicel connection in the same Its successful defence, with ordering it to restore circuits it international calls dispute (June, High Court victory the Jamaica Office of Utilities blocked in a dispute over 2009) against Digicel rates and help to make things Cable & Wireless Communications, LIME’s parent company, today LIME CUTS RATE FOR easier for consumers in these announces it has successfully defended itself in the UK High Court challenging times.” against claims it unlawfully delayed Digicel’s entry into the Caribbean “LIME’s landline service telecoms market between 2002 and 2006. CALLS FROM LANDLINES continues to provide consumers Mr Justice Morgan handed down a judgement in the High Court with an affordable means of dismissing all the claims brought by Digicel, except for in the Turks & TO MOBILES communication and with these new Caicos where he found a minor breach of contract but ruled it caused low rates our customers will be Digicel no delay and thus no loss. Cable & Wireless Communications • Rates down by as much as 20% getting even more value for their will now take action against Digicel to seek the reimbursement of its telecoms spend,” he added. costs of defending the matter. BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS 14 April 2010 - There is good news for LIME’s new, lower rates for Tony Rice, Cable & Wireless Communications CEO commented:“This LIME’s customers in St. Kitts & Nevis as the Caribbean’s premier calls from landlines to mobile is a resounding victory for Cable & Wireless Communications. This telecoms company will be lowering the rates for calls from LIME landlines phones will be rolled out in all the case has been a pointless waste of time and money. It was brought by to mobile phones by as much as 20%. countries governed by the Eastern Digicel on the eve of our AGM in July 2007 amid a fanfare of publicity As of April 15, LIME’s landline customers will pay a single rate of Caribbean Telecommunications and a statement that its claim was for several hundreds of millions of $0.57 per minute for calls to any mobile phone at any time of the day or Authority (ECTEL). As a result pounds. We maintained throughout that the case was baseless, and the night. This represents a 20% drop in the day time rate of $0.71 per LIME’s landline customers in UK High Court has now vindicated this. I am delighted that we have minute and a 17% decrease in the evening and weekend rate of $0.69 per Dominica, St. Lucia, Grenada and won and are now free from this unnecessary distraction” minute. St. Vincent and the Grenadines will David Shaw, the CEO of LIME, commented:“The UK High Court has General Manager for LIME in St, Kitts & Nevis, David Lake said: also benefit from a reduction in call seen through Digicel’s accusations as we always said they would. At “We are really pleased to be able to offer our customers lower calling charges. LIME, our approach to business is clear. We’re focused on winning for our customers which means operating with integrity and delivering solutions that customers expect and deserve. We can now put aside ADVERTISE WITH US unnecessary distractions and get down to the challenge of growing our business in the face of the economic challenges facing Caribbean markets. LABOUR SPOKESMAN This victory certainly gives us some momentum to get on with the task at hand.” Background on the case The case involved claims that the Cable & Wireless Communications industry who did not know Group had breached the telecoms statutes in six Caribbean territories The region mourns the Bisessar Chakalall and did not rely (Barbados, Cayman, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Grenada and on his expertise at some time.” the Turk & Caicos Islands) which Digicel was entering as a competitor passing of Bisessar “The FAO Sub-regional Office to Cable & Wireless (now LIME) between 2002-06. Similar allegations and the UN System in Barbados were also made against TSTT, the Trinidad & Tobago-based telecom will greatly miss him. He had been operator, in which Cable & Wireless Communications holds a minority Chakalall with FAO since 1986 and was stake. 14 April 2010 - The Caribbean fisheries fraternity is today mourning called upon to step into the role of Digicel also alleged senior management of Cable & Wireless plc, the the loss one of its most tireless advocates. Mr. Bisessar Chakalall, Senior Officer in Charge on numerous then parent company of Cable & Wireless Communications Group, had Fishery Officer with the Food and Agriculture Organization Subregional occasions, which he did with been involved in a ‘conspiracy’ to delay its entry into these markets.. Office for the Caribbean, passed away on 13 April at the age of 61 after a distinction. As the new The judgement dismissed all of the claims in the seven territories and brief illness. Subregional Coordinator, I will the overarching conspiracy claim with the minor exception that the Judge Tributes have been pouring in from the region and around the world. certainly miss his counsel and found a breach of a short letter agreement with Digicel in the Turks & He has been variously hailed as a man of integrity, intellect, wit, a support.” Caicos Islands, but which he ruled caused Digicel no delay and thus no consummate professional and a true gentleman. Subregional Coordinator “He was best known in all loss. of FAO, Mrs. Florita Kentish, summed up the sentiments expressed. circles as a person of simplicity, The case was heard over 77 sitting days in the High Court in London, “Barbados and the region will deeply miss a true son of the Caribbean. albeit of great depth, as well as a There is hardly a person in the region involved in the regional fisheries perfectionist. His colleagues all over the world have spoken dearly of his friendship; and how very privileged they were to know him.” Mr. Chakalall, a native of Guyana, held a Masters Degree in Marine Biology and Fisheries. During his 24-year tenure at FAO he also served as the Secretary of the Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC), where he worked tirelessly to help Member Nations address common problems of fisheries management and development. Prior to his appointment at FAO, he also worked as a Projects Officer with the Caribbean Conservation Association and as a Fisheries Officer for the Government of Guyana. He was the author of a number of scientific papers on fisheries management and development. The staff of the Food and Agriculture Organization extend their deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 19 living. When we fail, it is because of corrupt practices. When we Where do we go from here? progress, they categorize us and, small as we are, we have to borrow There are some of us, educated and intelligent as we appear to be, 2, at the same rate which America in dear reader, who do not know that we are affected by our thoughts and If Labour won the Elections whom we are not even a state, have our utterings. Regardless of the height of our education, if we are not outright, Labour has the right to to pay. conversant with the Law of Life, we are doomed. We can circumvent the form the government. Guess what One only has to look at the laws of man by legal arguments. We can set free a man who has murdered happened? This so-called God advancement of St. Kitts and Nevis because of his standing in the community, but we cannot circumvent the fearing, decent and respectable from 1995 until the present time, to Laws of Life. man was sent on a mission to visit see how far we have travelled That murderer, who escaped scot free from the murder rap, will have the wife of a Labour politician to Leader of the Opposition. under the Labour Administration to pay the penalty, if he or she was guilty. And so it will be with the coerce her husband to coerce the Mr. Leader of the Opposition, of Dr. Denzil Douglas? Five Leader of the Opposition, an educated and supposedly intelligent man rest of the successful Labour you focussed your attention on hurricanes and floods and we have who could not rise to a high plane during his Budget Address, but sank Candidates to form a government crime but, what hope are you overcome. Travel down to St. to the lowest depth, preaching doom and gloom. Then, gloom and gloom which would include the two PAM giving to our youngsters with our Thomas, a US territory and you is what would be drawn to him. candidates who had won their doom and gloom message? would observe pieces of blue But, dear reader, what do you expect from the Leader of the seats. Do you expect our youths to tarpaulin on houses from the 1995 Opposition? We are all affected by the company we keep. If I am a If it was the other way around, refrain from criminal activities if Hurricanes. decent, respectable, law-abiding citizen and I am constantly seen in the and Dr. Douglas had called Earle you do not offer them a glimmer of We have surpassed that. Is the company of drug pushers, I would at sometime be deemed to be a drug Clarke to go on a mission like that, a better life? Don’t forget or let me National Debt, the cause of pusher and would lose the respect of those who held me in high esteem. I would have refused because the remind you again, we attract unto corruption by the Denzil Douglas My grandmother, bless her departed soul, always informed me that effort would have been futile from ourselves that which we project in administration, or is it a result of “A man is known by the company he keeps.” She always said to me the beginning. Which Party, our thoughts and our utterings. the progressive strides we have “You cannot sow potatoes and reap yams; whatever you so that you having won the majority of seats, We go to America for holidays made so that investors can be would reap”. So when our Leader of the Opposition spits out doom and would join forces, with not even and to shop, but, in America, a enticed to come here and provide gloom, it is because he is associated with the People’s Action Movement another progressive minded party, murder is committed every five work for our people? How do you which is a political party of vengeance, spite, doom and gloom and never mind a party of doom and minutes, a robbery every three see it Mr. Leader of the divisiveness. gloom? minutes and a rape in every four Opposition? If you are a decent and respectable person and you join the ranks of But the God-fearing man had minutes. Nobody on the On Easter Monday, 5th April, I the People’s Action Movement (PAM), you soon lose that respectability. to go on the journey. They had Opposition Republican Bench ever saw the Leader of the Opposition I will divert attention for a little while from the Leader of the already contaminated him with the got up and scare people from bedecked in a sport jacket and Opposition to reinforce the point that PAM contaminates. There is this promise of heading the institution coming to America. open necked shirt at the horse God-fearing, Christian-minded man who works at a certain institution. It had PAM won and he, God- We run down to Puerto Rico race3s in St. Kitts. Was that a was the intention of PAM to dismiss the man in charge and replace him fearing, agreed to the suggestion. to shop, crime is escalating, but, negative move by the Labour with this God-fearing, decent and respectable man. You hear this, dear In order for him to be elevated to Puerto Ricans don’t tell you not Administration to allow that kind reader? The plan did not work out, because Labour won the Elections 6- the top position, they would have to come down there. They do not of investment in St. Kitts? Can to turn away somebody. Is that highlight their murder rates. In the anything good come out of this how God works? God does not whole of the Virgin Islands, their investment? Could we be seeing change his principles of love and murder rate last year was almost heroes from England, Canada, PM Douglas welcomes justice. If we are God-fearing, we fifty, when ours was in the USA, coming here to race? have to abide by the Laws of Life. twenties. They do not scare people Look at the multitude of people serious debate on crime Dear Reader, I went out of my or visitors from travelling there. who were over there Mr. Leader of way to show you how corrupting Mr. Leader of the Opposition, you the Opposition. Horse racing used from opposition and influential PAM is. No so- are not immune from the crime you to be held on August Monday in called decent and respectable are projecting. Change your St. Kitts at Pond Pasture, East “It’s not too late….” person can remain decent and thinking and your uttering. Basseterre. Pond Pasture was respectable while being a member You speak about the National taken over by Mr. Bradshaw and (Labour Secretariat) The St.Kitts/Nevis Prime Minister and leader and supporter of PAM. And so it Debt but, part of the National Debt turned into a Housing Project. of the ruling Labour Party Government, Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has is with the Leader of the belongs to Nevis. The Federal August 1st 1834 was the date charged that it is time for the opposition to start making meaningful Opposition. He has to preach Government has to shoulder the when we were so called contribution towards his Administration’s fight against crime. doom and gloom because he is debt of Nevis and the debt of St. emancipated. The 1st Monday in Dr. Douglas made the disclosure while speaking on this week’s associated with a Party of doom Kitts. We have to face the realities August was supposed to be AskThePM radio programme. and gloom. of life. The World Bank and the celebrated as the day of our “I think that the election campaign and it catches for sound bite is There is a part of a passage of IMF are there to recognize us. We emancipation. To cloud the now over. It is time for hard work. Where crime is concern, we invite scripture which says “Come thou as black people are incapable of importance of the day from us, the opposition…..It is time for them to make meaningful contributions from amongst them”, and let your governing ourselves and offering Massa brought his horses in town to the hard and important work that the Government has so clearly positive thoughts shine Mr. our people a high standard of to race on that day. begun. He continued: “It is not too late for the opposition to join the government in serious debate on this very important topic of violent crime. It is not enough for the Leader of the Opposition to just simply Justice for Haiti: Beyond Aid and (attack) the Government (claiming) that the administration of the day However, so long as the has not mobilized enough resources in tackling crime in this country.” Debt Forgiveness developed countries that played According to PM Douglas it is not too late for the members of the such a significant role in creating Over the last few months there has been a surfeit of talk in the opposition to engage in a responsible manner in the National Assembly. Haiti’s present ruinous political international community over what should be done for Haiti. However, “This is what is needed now. My Government is calling for it and and economic conditions in almost all of these discussions Haiti’s historical context is completely the people deserve it. Let us now look for a way forward to a very continue to ignore and evade excised – it is almost as if the country had only come into being as a serious policy proposals and analysis from the opposition-analysis their responsibility for Haiti’s result of January’s earthquake. This collective amnesia is damning. The regarding crime,” he stated. impoverishment, the country will hurricanes of 2008 and the recent earthquake brought unfathomable The St.Kitts/Nevis Leader highlighted other opposition political remain vulnerable. Recognition of damage upon Haiti, but their effects have been greatly exacerbated by parties insist on using the sensitivity of violent crimes for political and restitution for past wrongs, Haiti’s widespread poverty, lack of adequate public infrastructure, food mileage. coupled with an authentic insecurity and an utterly bleak horizon. Unlike the hurricanes and As indicated by him, his administration went into the National commitment to end the sabotage earthquake, these are not natural phenomena. The devastating nature Assembly (for the 2010 Budget Address) “fully prepared to engage in and exploitation of this tortured of these natural disasters cannot be understood apart from over two the type of probing and meaningful exchange with the opposition nation, would be the best way to centuries of Haiti’s colonial and postcolonial subjugation, foreign because this would have made it clear to the public that both help Haiti achieve the stability occupation, economic exploitation and the degrading conditions faced parliamentarian from the Government benches as well as those who and freedom to determine its own by most of its population. are not really do see violent crime as an issue worthy of serious analysis future. If one chooses wisely (and not selectively), one can learn from and deliberation.” This analysis was prepared by Haiti’s history in order to assure that this cycle of oppression, destitution, “Instead however, other political parties insist on this very serious COHA Research Associate Ethan and destruction is not repeated. As a first step, providing Haiti with issue being used as a political football yet again and as some type of Katz and Visiting Scholar Daniel unconditional disaster relief on an urgent basis remains critical. club with which to bang away on the other,” Dr. Douglas said. Boscov-Elle http://www.coha.org 20 - NEWS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 Taiwanese Embassy Sports Tourism on the rise & Nevis.” Comes to Support of Reinforcing its status as a leading CARICOM Social Caribbean destination for Security 2010 Games world class cricket events, St. Kitts is The Republic of China, Taiwan has demonstrated its continued also this month willingness to partner with its Caribbean nation friends in the promotion hosting the world’s of general social cohesion as well as in their efforts at regional integration. eight (8) leading This was evident in the role played by the Taiwanese Embassy located Female cricket in St. Kitts and Nevis; in connection with the recently held 10th squads and their CARICOM Social Security Games. fans from around The Director of Social Security, Mrs. Sephlin Lawrence sounded a the world in special note of gratitude in relation to the contribution of the Republic of preparation for the China, Taiwan to the successful hosting of the Games by St. Kitts and ICC World Nevis. In a special review meeting at the Social Security Office, Mrs. Twenty20 Lawrence revealed to staff that the Embassy of the Republic of China, tournament in May, Taiwan came to the support of the Sports and Social Club at a time when 2010. (despite the fundraising efforts of the Board and the Sports and Social (Parents and Students of the UK’s Park Side School in St. Kitts for a The West Club) the Organizing Committee of the event was falling short of the day of Cricket) Indies, Pakistan and Sri Lankan projected budgetary requirement to ensure a successful staging of the teams have already begun arriving Games. BASSETERRE (Tuesday 13th April, 2010): Sports Tourism is soaring in St Kitts to play in a triangular The Taiwanese Embassy responded favourably to the request for to new heights in St Kitts as sportsmen and women from the UK and the T20 series as a warm up to the T20 sponsorship, which was conveyed with the concurrence of the Deputy major cricketing nations of the world have begun to swarm in to this ICC World Cup event which will Prime Minister Hon. Sam Condor, and provided a financial contribution friendly Caribbean island over the course of the month of April. be staged in St Kitts, St Lucia, of US$17,900.00. “That’s almost fifty thousand Eastern Caribbean dollars” In the first two weeks of the month students and their parents from Barbados and Guyana next month. Mrs. Lawrence declared. three British schools, and two clubs have been visiting St. Kitts to engage The In addition to the timely and generous contribution, the Resident their peers in various sporting competitions. three women’s teams already Ambassador of the ROC Taiwan, His Excellency Mr. Rong Chuan Wu The touring schools include the Park Side School from Surrey, the on St Kitts will be joined by was gracious enough to deliver encouraging remarks at the Opening Manchester Grammar School, and the Rossall School from Lancashire. squads from India, England, Ceremony of the games on Friday 2nd April 2010. Alluding to his The largest group arrived over the Easter weekend from the Dunnington Australia, New Zealand and South country‘s long standing relationship with St. Kitts and Nevis, he voiced Sports Club with more than 160 members. Dozens of family and friends Africa later in his pleasure and honour at being associated with the games which have joined the mix of enthusiastic touring cricketers, footballers and April for warm up matches of embodies a cross section of English-speaking members of CARICOM. netballers for a non-stop vacation and festival of sports and relaxation their own, preceding the big ICC “As a friendly nation of St. Kitts and Nevis for years, we were able to on the sunny Caribbean islands of St Kitts and Nevis. T20 event which starts on May participate in the development of this beautiful Federation; from On the field, the UK sporting visitors are competing against various 5th at Warner Park, St Kitts. community centres, sports facilities, and Warner Park to Silver Jubilee local St Kitts and Nevis squads and are exchanging gifts and friendships “Hosting such a large world Stadium. I want to congratulate you, in that, in this Federation you are that will be long remembered. When not competing they are enjoying class event is a major priviledge the leading members in CARICOM in terms of sports based facilities.” the natural attractions of the twin-island destination, including wind and undertaking for our country. declared the Ambassador. surfing, kayaking, water skiing, sailing and snorkelling. But Warner Park is a very specially Participants in this year’s event hailed from Anguilla, Antigua and The UK visitors have also enjoyed one of St. Kitts’ newest attractions, designed Caribbean-styled setting Barbuda, The British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St. the Sky Safari Tour, which is a zip-line tour that gives thrill seekers a for both player and spectator Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. panoramic view of the lush green mountain-side rainforest, neighbouring enjoyment in a modern facility,” Kitts and Nevis. Over 400 persons from the other territories joined their islands, and nearby historical sites, as they soar through the skies on a Skerritt said. local counterparts for the Easter weekend of fun and camaraderie while state of the art zip-line harness system. Meanwhile, from June 18-22, competing for the coveted championship. “Sports tourism is now growing impressively as a niche market for 2010, Warner Park, St. Kitts will In spite of the competitive nature of the Games Day itself, the ‘athletes’ us” Said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism and International also host the second international who are social security staff members and their associate members of Transport, “In St Kitts we have combined our investments in modern cricket test match between the their respective sports clubs were encouraged by the Taiwanese sports infrastructure with the growing demand for pre-season activity West Indies men’s team and the Ambassador to participate in a spirit of goodwill. “I want to remind you for visiting teams and fans. The good news is now spreading of our touring South African squad. [that] participation is more important than winning and I wish that you island’s comfortable warm weather, natural beauty, rich heritage and April, May and June will would seize the opportunity of the Games to fellowship, to exchange welcoming and talented people, which together have produced a therefore all be action packed and to promote the experience and make the Social Security Board [and] signature blend of cultural and recreational experiences for visiting months in St Kitts for sports Social Security policies more successful.” The Ambassador stated. sportspersons that can only be found on Caribbean islands like St. Kitts tourism, and cricket in particular. The contribution of the Republic of China, Taiwan was the largest of three Platinum Sponsorships received by the Social Security Board and the Sports and Social Club. The other two such sponsorships were received from the St. Kitts Nevis Anguilla National Bank Ltd and we perform our duties, I wish to Meantime, Commanding out the plans of the Strategic Construction Technologies DT Ltd. thank all those who have assisted Officer of the Nevis Division of the Planning Group and give the Chesil Hamilton in this process so far, in particular Royal St. Christopher and Nevis community the type of Police Public Relations Department the Nevis Island Government. [I] Police Force Inspector Hilroy service that the community urge all to continue to negotiate Brandy, registered his gratitude to expects. Sir, we will be able to and seek support for assistance to the NIA when he delivered the increase our mobile patrols and Federation’s Top Cop boost our limited resources,” he Vote of Thanks. visible police presence in the said. “Hon. Premier, I wish to express community and be better chaos. With your help, we will Commissioner Williams also my sincere thanks to you for your positioned to respond more readily calls ...... continue to be proactive, had words of advice for the quick response to the request to reports,” he said. (cont’d fron page 14) increasingly present, visible and operators of the new vehicles and made by the Nevis Division of the Mr. Brandy also praised his active in our communities,” he told them to care for them as they Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Commander in Chief for his Federation, therefore, I wish to said. would their personal property. Police Force for purchasing these presence at the handing over make a loud appeal to corporate The Commissioner thanked The Federation’s Police additional vehicles. The NIA has ceremony. He said given the business to partner with us so that the NIA for its continued Commissioner also used the once again demonstrated its current situation regarding crime we can continue to provide assistance and referred to the gift opportunity to reassure the public commitment to support the efforts in the Federation, effective security and create a safe of new vehicles as the most visible that their safety and security of the Police to ensure that the “It is always a good booster to environment to do business and contribution it had made with remained the Organisation’s island of Nevis is a place where see our Commander lying in the live. regard to resources to date. foremost priority and anyone who residents and visitors can feel safe. trenches with his troops as we fight “The Police stand between our “As we strive to provide much attempted to disrupt the island’s “The acquisition of these our battles,” he said as he thanked society moving forward and needed resources to make us peace and security would be dealt vehicles will enable the Police in him for the encouragement he had developing or falling backwards in efficient and effective in the way with according to law. the Nevis Division to better carry given to the Division. The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - SPORTS COMMENTARY - 21 Now, we need a repeat Let’s Do It Again performance! It would do us so Sports Commentary much good in the recession. WITH Do it Again! The sporting contest beginning this weekend at St The West Indies Women Paul’s, St Kitts and Nevis, involving the West Indies Women Cricket Cricket Team has been team in Team and the women teams of the International Cricket Council’s member camp in St Kitts from April 11 and ETER DRIEN countries, somehow reminds me of the title of the 1975 classic movie they will play one-day games and P A with Bill Cosby and Sydney Poitier – “Let Do it Again.” T20 matches against Sri Lanka and Peter Adrien is an author and sports analyst. His latest United Somehow, I am motivated to say “let’s do it again!” Why? It is not Pakistan. The whole of St Kitts and Nation’s sponsored book, Sport Tourism, a must-read for policy the comedy content of the movie that moves me. This time, it is the Nevis is called upon to rally makers, tourism investors, hoteliers, academics and students is craving of a repeat performance is causing my fast heart beat. behind the West Indies Women now available. Call Peter at 869-6689752; 869-4651603 or email Can our discipline and talented Caribbean women do it again? Can Cricket Team from the first match [email protected] for a copy. they out-perform the Can they out-perform the rest of the world women tomorrow, Saturday at St Paul’s Visit Peter’s website WWW.goadriens.com. like they did against the English women in November 2009 in the same against the Sri Lankan Women country – St Kitts and Nevis? Cricket Team in the first ODI. The not been included. England, and it is currently number Do you remember what I wrote then? “ It is the display of excellence other encounters are on April 19 Beaten finalist at the 2009 one in the world, so we are at the Warner Park Stadium, St Kitts and Nevis – the history-making at the same venue; April 20 at event New Zealand has a familiar confident. Playing the preliminary performance of the West Indies Women Cricket Team and the contrasting Cayon; April 22 at the same venue; took to it with Aimee Watkins again matches in St Kitts will be to our perennial demonstration of brinkmanship of the managers of the West April 23 at Molineux and April 27 leading the way. She will be advantage. Last year, we got great Indies Cricket business (WICB) that prevents it from developing its and 29 at the same venue. supported ably by Amy support from the people and we male cricket and prepare them for a very gruelling tour of Australia this There is more. All Group A and Satterthwaite, Suzie Bates, Lucy will be expecting the fans to come month. Led by a match-winning performance by Pamela Lavine, the West Group B matches will be played in Doolan and Nicola Browne who, out again. We have some very Indies Women Cricket Team prevailed over the England Women Cricket St Kitts between 5-10 May. What although all still young, have good players, such as Stafanie Team to take the three-match Twenty20 series with two wins to none a a f6east! The Finals will be hosted already managed to gather plenty Taylor, who is among the top the Warner Park Stadium on Tuesday. West scored 102 runs for the loss by Saint Lucia and Barbados. of experience at international level. batters in the world, and Deandra of 5 wickets (Lavine 37) to beat England women by five wickets, after The full West Indies Women The other two main Dottin, who can hit the ball with they only managed 99 runs (Edwards 41, Lavine took 4 wickets for 21 Team is as follows: Merissa contenders for top honours will be great power at the top of the order. runs). In fact, the West Indies women added a Twenty20 series win to Aguilleira (Captain), Kirbyina Australia and India and both have Pam Lavine is our most their upset of top-ranked England in the one-day internationals by taking Alexander, Shemaine Campbelle, announced strong squads for the experienced player and also a an unassailable 2-0 lead. All-rounder Pamela Lavine was the match-winner Britney Cooper, Shanel Daley, trip to the Caribbean. Australia will good batter and reliable bowler. We for the home side, taking four wickets to skittle England before making a Deandra Dottin, Cordel Jack, be led by Jodie Fields with Alex also have Cordel Jack, a reliable brisk 37 to shepherd West Indies to a five-wicket victory in the second Stacy-Ann King, Pamela Lavine, Blackwell, Lisa Sthalekar and batter; Stacy King, a good all- Twenty20 international at St Kitts.” Anisa Mohammed, Juliana Nero, Shelley Nitschke being the players rounder who bats in the middle- Shakera Selman, Tremayne Smartt, to watch. order and bowls in the middle Stafanie Taylor The West Indies will be overs; Anisa Mohammed is a IS THE SKABA EXECUTIVE All eight women teams for the difficult to beat especially if world-class off-spinner; and our ICC World Twenty20 2010 are Stafanie Taylor and Deandra captain Merissa Aguilleira is a DISCRIMINATING AGAINST THE ready. The group stages of the Dottin can fire with the bat. The good leader and her batting has women’s element of the squad includes three new faces improved. Shemaine Campbelle is “BOBO DREAD” OR AGAINST tournament will take place in St from last year’s tournament in small but anyone who can bat, Kitts with the semi-finals England with batter Britney bowl and keep wicket at HIS TURBAN? happening in St Lucia and the final Cooper, seam bowler Shemaine international level gives us many By Dr. Garfield Alexander being staged in Barbados. The Campbelle and all-rounder options. Overall our strength is knock-out matches will all feature Tremayne Smartt being given the our belief in the team concept In light of certain comments as double-headers with the men’s chance to impress. where everyone plays for each made by a very small group of equivalents just as they did in The former West Indian other. Our fielding against England persons who may not understand England last year. opening batsman, Barbadian, last year was excellent, but I still I felt compelled to highlight the Charlotte Edwards will lead Sherwin Campbell, coach of the want to see more improvement in following: defending champion England and West Indies Women’s team, is that area. In T20, the more runs you 1. As the “Bobo Dread” is a will want to lift the trophy again as confident that his ladies can lift the save; you give yourself a better practicing follower of Bobo shanti she did at home last year. Having trophy when the final is played at chance of winning. In our team, we (one of the Mansions/Sub-groups also won the ICC Women’s World Kensington Oval in Barbados on have a good bowling unit. What of Rastafarianism), he cannot be separated from his religion and so if it is Cup 2009 in Australia, England will May 16. we need to do is identify the being said in fact that his turban is being banned then for the Bobo be anxious to claim a third world Campbell said: “We expect to players for various situations and Shanti essentially you are banning him. It is not a simple act of removing title on as many continents. To do very well. I find we are better at that is what we will be doing in the the turban in order to play as this would be against his religious belief. help Edwards along that path, T20 cricket than we are at 50-over camp and in the warm-up matches. 2. The intent of the FIBA rules was not to discriminate when it was there are some new faces in the cricket, so we go into the ICC In batting, we have seen signs of drafted. It was formulated to protect players and/or officials from physical England squad as well as some of WT20 confident of doing well. Our great improvement, but again, we injury. Our society has changed, Rastafarians no longer exclude the old guard. Claire Taylor, who aim is to win. We are playing at need to work harder.” themselves or are excluded from society, they wish and can (and have was player of the 2009 tournament home and every team dreams of We would hope that the that right by law) to participate just like every other member of society. as well as winning the Women’s winning at home. women as always will lead the way The rule has now become DISCRIMINATORY because our society has Cricketer of the Year at the LG ICC We enter the tournament with impressive performances; and evolved to become more inclusive yet this rule still exist without changes/ Awards last year, returns after ranked at number five so the first the men, being provoked to amendment to mirror thus changes in society. missing the tour of India, as does aim will be to get into the top four jealous, will deliver the goods. 3. Some are comparing this situation to the issues faced by the Holly Colvin, but the experienced (semifinals) and move on from This is therefore a call to Rally! schools that observe and practice a Sabbath day during this year’s Inter Isa Guha and Caroline Atkins have there. Last year in St Kitts we beat Come on, Girls, “Let’s Do It Again! Primary Sports Championship. They are similar in that they both have to do with religion and religious practice but this case differs (in my humble opinion) in that it includes a “violation of a fundamental constitutional SKABA PRESIDENT right”. These school(s) OPTED to EXCLUDE themselves because in their opinion the observance of their Sabbath was not being recognized DENOUNCES MEDIA by the sporting body and the public at large. Mr. Rochester (the “Bobo Dread”) has opted to be INCLUDED and reserves his RIGHT to be REPORTS…… “SKABA did included...he is being ask to exclude his turban which is his religious practice and by extension exclude himself from local league games. 4. This issue could have and STILL can be resolved quite easily! All not ban the bobo dread” it would take is dialogue and compromise. Rules can be amended for the Basseterre, St.Kitts (April 13th 2010):-The saga concerning the benefit of all parties involved. A simple amendment can prevent the rules St.Kitts Amateur Basketball Association, the Ghetto Roots Basketball from being broken and stop any perceived discrimination or violation of Club, Head Coach Garfeild Alexander and player Dale Rochester constitutional and/or human right. continued as President James “Barman” Hanley addressed the situation on winn fm’s Voices programme. Yours Humbly, SKABA President James Mr. Hanley clarified the “Barman” Hanley Dr. Garfield Alexander SKABA side of the situation which (cont’d on page 22) 22 - SPORTS - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 Financial Institutions Take Fitness Caribbean Central Bank; Eastern Caribbean Home Mortgage Bank; to a New Level will start from the Circus, Eastern Caribbean Institute of Financial institutions in St Basseterre. Come and participate Banking and Financial Services; Kitts will give a new meaning to in Financial Fitness Walk-a-Thon Eastern Caribbean Securities fitness - “Financial Fitness”. 2010. Prizes will be awarded to Exchange; FINCO; FirstCaribbean Members of these institutions individuals whose attire creatively International Bank; St Kitts Nevis will journey on a walk-a-thon captures the theme of the walk, Anguilla National Bank; Royal around the Basseterre area on “Get Financially Fit- Spend Wisely, Bank of Canada; RBTT; Bank of The ‘CLAW’ Road Bike Saturday, 24 April 2010 starting at Save Regularlyn. Nova Scotia;St. Christopher and 5:30 a.m. The objective of the walk The following financial Nevis Social Security Board; St Race April 10th is to spread the message of institutions are partners in this Kids Co-operative Credit Union financial fitness. project; Caribbean Financial and SNIC. The by-pass road or as its know to the cyclists on Nevis ‘The Claw’ Members of the general public Associates Inc.; Development A similar initiative will be because it grabs you and wont let go, was the main feature for the are invited to join the walk which Bank of St Kitts and Nevis; Eastern hosted in Nevis at a later date. weekends race on Saturday, starting at Oualie Beach, up the ‘CLAW’ turning at the roundabout to head back up Pump road was the course, 2 laps for all but Novices, Kids and Masters, with a fierce wind blowing on the return leg. St. Kitts-Nevis Football Association The lead group of riders set a steady but fierce pace from the outset, Reggie, James and Assim were away so a new winner was certain, but (SKNFA) second round of FA Cup who would it be?? In the front was Alex Isles closely followed by Jr triathlete and rider Akeem Green in his first real road race, Matt Lloyd, The St. Kitts-Nevis Football Association (SKNFA) completed the draw for the second (2nd) round of its Greg Phillip, Winston Crooke and Jrs Jessica Amory and ‘Prince’ Leader. FA Cup on Tuesday night (13th April), live on national TV, ZIZ Channel 5. The big test was going to be the climb up the by-pass road (The Claw) This was done on the very popular Tuesday night Sports programme “Action Sports” by Mr Stanley which seems to last forever, Alex led the way with Akeem on his heels Jacobs, General Secretary of the SKNFA. He was ably assisted by the members of the St. Kitts-Nevis Under the rest of the pack finding their own way up, before having to battle the Fifteen (U 15) football team, who are fresh from their Championship performance in the Barbados Cup on the wind all the way back to Oualie for the turnaround. Easter Weekend in Barbados, where they won that competition. The rest of the junior riders were making their way and gathering a The young footballers who are extremely excited about going overseas to represent the Federation and head of steam as they closed up the gap on the leaders, Sasha Lloyd, also being crowned champions, were overwhelmed by the opportunity to assist the FA in such an important Triffon Simmons, Curtis Huggins et al. the riders of the future were event. putting on a good show today. Alex and Akeem were on a roll, despite The 2nd round which will determine the quarter-finalists, commences on Tuesday 20th April, and sees: breaking away they were caught at the turnaround by Greg and Matt, • Game 1 : The National U 16 team vs Coury’s Snapple Conaree FC but once again dropped everyone on the ‘Claw’, At the end Alex’s • Game 2 : Molineau FC vs St Peters FC experience told in the final moments as he out sprinted his young • Game 3 : Rams Village Superstars vs KFC Trinity/Challengers Strikers FC challenger to take the win, Akeem was 2nd and Matt Lloyd in a well • Game 4 : The National U 18 team vs Washington Archibald High School FC earned 3rd place as he continues to improve with each race. • Game 5 : Davis’ Construction Lodge Patriot FC vs Mantab FC With Jessica having pulled out after lap one Sasha took the Jr female • Game 6 : S.L Horsfords St. Pauls FC vs UDC Garden Hot Spurs FC 1st place, with Triffon coming in Jr 2nd and Prince 3rd. Curtis Huggins • Game 7 : Parson Ground FC vs Rivers of Living Waters FC and was the best rider in the 12 & under category, but continued on to do the • Game 8 : Trafalgar South Stars vs TDC Newtown United FC two laps, a growing talent in the making. The masters was represented After a very exciting first (1st) round of matches, these sixteen teams will now be battling it out to get into by the evergreen Gordon ‘Doc’ Avery, with no one contesting him this the Semi-Finals, and the excitement, thrill of victory defeat and agony of defeat will be running high. day it was another first for him. The seeded teams that gained byes into this round are: We would like to thank Marecia for the timing and race control, for 1. S.L Horsfords St. Pauls United Strikers details of all upcoming events see the events calendar on the website 2. Washington Archibald High School FC www.neviscycleclub.com. 3. TDC Newtown United FC and Name (overall) Category LAP 1 Finish Position 4. UDC Garden Hot Spurs FC. Alex Isles Elite 41:03 1:21:59 1 The general public is therefore urged to come on out and support their community, support their team, Akeem Green Jr 41:05 1:22:00 2 support the competition, support football. Matt Lloyd Elite 41:04 1:25:03 3 Greg Phillip Elite 41:02 1:26:34 4 SKABA President ..... “SKABA did not ban any Bobo Trifon Simmons Jr 43:43 1:27:16 5 dread as is being said in the media Prince Leader Jr 43:55 1:35:02 6 (cont’d from page 21) properly covered. and peddled by a certain author,” Sasha Lloyd Jr Female 48:14 1:36:58 7 o Protector for an injured the SKABA President said. “The Curtis Huggins Cadet 51:15 1:39:22 8 involves the adherence to the nose, even if made of a hard association has nothing against Winston Crooke Elite 43:13 1:39:23 9 FIBA rule which dictates that material. the Bobo dread or the bobo shanty Stallone Baker Jr 54:34 1:54:41 10 certain headgear should not be o Spectacles, if they do not religion however the rules of FIBA Jessica Amory Jr Female 46:30 DNF worn during play. Mr. Hanley pose a danger to other players. are clear and it dictates that his outlined the FIBA rule section 4.4.2 o Headbands, maximum five headgear is not allowed,” he One Lap Finish Position which states: (5) cm in width, made of non- continued. Curtis Huggins Cadet 51:15 1 4.4.2 Players shall not wear abrasive, unicolour cloth, pliable SKABA President Hanley Richard Leader Cadet 55:45 2 equipment (objects) that may plastic or rubber announced on Sunday during the Duryan Cozier (MTB)Novice 1:02:54 3 cause injury to other players. Hanley read the section in it’s opening of SKABA that he had Gordon Avery Masters 52:59 4 • The following are not entirety and he indicated that been served with a letter permitted: SKABA was simply abiding by a requesting that no games be o Finger, hand, wrist, elbow FIBA rule. FIBA is the world fixtured for the Ghetto Roots team or forearm guards, casts or braces governing body of International until the matter involving Dale made of leather, plastic, pliable Amateur Basketball. Mr. Hanley Rochester (BoBo DREAD) and his (soft) plastic, metal or any other also made the point that the rule headgear is addressed. hard substance, even if covered was not one created or concocted “[Ghetto Roots] have asked us with soft padding. by the local association. He further not to fixture any games for them o Objects that could cut or opined his displeasure with the until a decision is taken. We cause abrasions (fingernails must fact that SKABA via him as consulted with our lawyers and be closely cut). President was served a letter less they advised us not to let them o Headgear, hair than 24 hrs before the start of the play that game [against BVI] accessories and jewellery. league. He felt strongly that it was pending the matter going before • The following are an attempt to embarrass the league the appeals board,” Hanley told permitted: and SKABA. the gathered crowd at the SKABA o Shoulder, upper arm, Hanley also addressed and 2010 opening thigh or lower leg protective clarified media reports which An appeals board has been put equipment if the material is suggest that his association had in place and the matter is sufficiently padded. banned the player in question, Mr. scheduled to be heard on o Knee braces if they are Rochester. Wednesday 14th. The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010 - COMMENTARY - 23 Tapley Seaton condemns shooting of Magistrate in St. Lucia BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, APRIL 15TH 2010 (CUOPM) – President of the OECS Bar Association, Kittitian Mr. Tapley Seaton, Q.C. has By: Vigilante condemned the shooting in St. Lucia, of the Jamaican-born magistrate, * There is so much confusion in the PAM camp that the 2010 Ann-Marie Smith, who was shot by armed assailants. Convention which was originally planned for this weekend has had “The vicious attack on Magistrate Smith…represents an attack on to be put off indefinitely. the justice system, the very institution in place to provide protection and relief to persons who have been wronged and who are the victims of * Inside sources say there have been no letting up on the law-breakers. It reflects a new and extremely dangerous level of crime in campaign to get rid of the joker Lindsay Grant. But the little fellow the community,” Mr. Seaton said in a statement carried by CMC News is putting up a stiff fight and is threatening to withdraw all his funds Barbados. from the party, and go public. He said what is even more disturbing is the fact that the incident in Magistrate Ann-Marie Smith * Dey say he say if it becomes necessary he will take out paid St. Lucia “comes just weeks after a police prosecutor was gunned down advertisements on the PAM FM radio station and expose his critics by criminal elements. Regrettably, he did not survive.” bushes. Smith’s five year-old and the coup ring leaders Mr. Seaton said these two incidents seem to reflect a developing daughter was also in the car at the pattern of organised and targeted criminal activity in St. Lucia aimed at * The word on the street is that even in his house the call is time of the incident. obstructing the justice system and creating an atmosphere of fear in the being made over and over again to done with the politics and give Magistrate Smith accelerated community. somebody else a chance to run de party. But the dejected little while blowing her horn as the “The OECS Bar calls for a swift and thorough investigation into the fellow is so stubborn and arrogant, he continues to turn down good gunmen fired shots into her shooting of Magistrate Smith and the recent shooting of the police advice and make a fool of himself. vehicle, which ran into a drain, prosecutor. We urge the St. Lucian Government to inject the necessary eyewitnesses said. * Dey say she tell him: “Darling, politics just ain’t for you; they resources to facilitate an efficient and effective police investigation. Smith’s landlord told the just using you for your money. Leave them alone with their party, ‘We call on the police to spare no effort to ensure that the perpetrators Caribbean Media Corporation go back full time to your law practice and stick with your family”. are brought to justice,” said Mr. Seaton, adding that the incident (CMC) that after hearing the * But, he say Daddy Grant taught him not to be afraid of anybody highlights the “need for adequate security and protection of our judicial commotion, he rushed from inside and he going show the former Tek-Way-Key Minister and his gang officers in St. Lucia and elsewhere.” his house to the balcony and fired he ain’t fraid them. He going show them who is man from boy. Smith was treated for bullet wounds to her thigh, leg and buttocks three shots into the air. and released from the St. Lucia hospital over the last weekend. * The Sheriff was overheard recently telling someone in Nevis The gunmen fled the scene Eyewitnesses said the magistrate, who has gained a reputation in St. that he ain’t know what noise de expired PAM leader making about discarding their ski-masks in the Lucia for being tough on criminals, was entering her car to go to work cheat. He won his seat in Nevis convincingly against great odds, if process. The masks were later when she was attacked by two masked gunmen who jumped from nearby he (Lindsay) was a popular leader, the people of Constituency 4 retrieved by police. would have voted overwhelmingly for him as the people of Nevis 9 did for him. It’s time he (Lindsay) call it quits. * The discarded doctor from the West says, he too ain’t know Half Moon Bay couple died from gunshot what noise de expired PAM leader is making. He going lose in the courts too. He made a sacrifice for 3-way Bernie, but he not backing wounds, says pathologist that a young man from the nearby back as the PAM Candidate for Constituency 4, when the next Keys area had been turned over General Elections are called in 2015. By Charles Miller Jr investigations in this double to the Police by the family homicide and are working on a members in connection with the * The official word is that the failed PAM leader has been ordered James and Mildred Daniel, the number of leads. Both victims crime, the Police dismissed those by the big bosses in the party not to use the PAM FM station elderly couple whose partly were said to be in their seventies. reports as false; but indicated that anymore to make ay statement on behalf of the party, until the decomposed bodies were In relation to the murder of someone had been assisting them leadership problem is resolved. discovered here by Police, in their popular taxi operator, Bradford with their investigations with * The move is on to get rid of 1/4lb Onion as the Party Chairman. home at Half Moon Bay, Frigate “Braddy” Tweede (68) of Branch respect to another matter. And Cindy Lopez is campaigning hard for the job. Dey say she Bay, on Sunday afternoon last, Street, East Basseterre – whose Mr. Tweede who has given well sway they made a fool of her and gave the juicy lawyer her job, but April 11th, were victims of gunshot body was found in the vicinity of over 30 years of invaluable service she not backing down this time against 1/4lb Onion who was wounds. Morgan Heights, Canada Estate in to the tourism industry here will instrumental in keeping her out of Parliament as the PAM Senator. This has been confirmed by the early hours of Thursday 8th be laid to rest at the Springfield April, 2010 – the results of the * The rumbling for a change of the PAM Candidate in the East Barbadian forensic pathologist, Cemetery next Tuesday afternoon, autopsy conducted by Dr. Stephen is intensifying and both Leroy and Willy have made it abundantly Dr. Stephen Jones, who performed April 20th, following the service Jones revealed that he too died clear to the party that they are not working with the soft macaroni autopsies on their bodies, the at the St. George’s Anglican from “haemorrhage and shock due a third time around (again). They want a new candidate for the results of which revealed that they Church in Basseterre. to gun shot wounds.” 2015 Elections. both died from “haemorrhage and We extend our heartfelt shock due to gun shot wounds.” Questioned about reports sympathy to the bereaved families. * Willy has been so upset and disappointed with his behaviour The couple who until recently circulated by members of the public and performance that he bluntly refused to attend the hearings of resided in the U.K are nationals of the over 350 frivolous objections, leaving the poor mechanic and St. Kitts & Nevis. They were loser Glenroy all alone to make a fool of themselves. reportedly last seen on Tuesday Molineaux resident shot and * Dey say the mechanic confessed that neither he nor the of last week, April 6th, a Police candidate knew the people they were objecting to; all the objections press release stated. killed in Phillips were prepared and filed by a young lady from Frigate Bay who did Neighbours alerted the Police He was pronounced dead on not know the people either; he only signed the objection forms. of a foul scent coming from the the scene by Dr. Bassey Udo, the newly constructed two-storey By Charles Miller Jr * Dey say even Chris Moonlight and Wallis are calling for his District Medical Officer. building and officers of the removal as the PAM Candidate in the East and they are pushing Police are investigating the Crime Scene Officers found a Criminal Investigations for the gas station fellow from Frigate Bay who paid for the PAM death of a 45 – year old Molineaux number of spent shells near the Department (CID) made the charter flight from New York on the eve of the 2010 Elections, to be man, Elvan Warner who was shot scene of the crime. An autopsy will shocking discovery of the bodies the new candidate. and killed in Phillips Village, on be performed later to determine the at about 4:45 pm on Sunday. It is Tuesday night, April 13th. exact cause of death, a Police press * Since he get all dem blows from Sam, 3-way Bernie who was understood that the wife’s body Police officers responding to a release stated. singing for his supper to get the big wuk at the Electricity was found in a bed and her report of a shooting in the Phillips Warner was recently released Department (they promised him) has gone into hiding. And people husband’s on the floor nearby. area, discovered the body of from prison after serving two of a waiting to see who he going run for in the next elections. The Police have indicated that Warner (at around 7:45 pm), with three year sentence for larceny. * Lennox in New York stop “call een” on the radio talk shows they have one young man in what appeared to be gunshot Police have no suspects in because he ain’t get what he was promised. He say for all the dirty custody assisting them with their wounds. custody as yet. work he did for Eugene and PAM in Constituency 8 to hijack the seat, they treat him like a dog. 24 - NEWS/ ADVERTISEMENT - The Labour Spokesman FRIDAY, APRIL 16TH 2010