NO CONFIDENCE MOTION SHOT DOWN - The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines - The Vincentian
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The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018 VOLUME 112, No.05 www.thevincentian.com EC$1.50
NO CONFIDENCE
MOTION SHOT DOWN by DAYLE DA SILVA proceeded to hand out
copies of the amended
THE NEW DEMOCRATIC motion, following which
PARTY (NDP) had its motion of a recommendation was
No Confidence against the Dr made by the Speaker for
Ralph Gonsalves led Unity a break in order that the
Labour Party Administration, members of the House
essentially shot down in become familiar with the
Parliament on Wednesday. new document.
And following a At this point,
protracted and sometimes Opposition
heated exchange between Parliamentary
members on both sides and Representative for
the Speaker of the House Central Kingstown St
Jomo Thomas, a Clair Leacock objected.
recommendation was made “I am seeking
to seek guidance from the clarification; the motion
Court as it related to the brought by us was a
issue of amending No motion of No
Confidence motions. Confidence,” he said.
Notwithstanding, the The Prime Minister
Sitting allowed for an responded that, based on
amendment to the initial the literature, a motion
motion of No Confidence to of Confidence and No
read Confidence. Confidence is used
The amendment was interchangeably, and he
tabled by Prime Minister cited the Constitutional
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on Theorist, Erskine May to
Wednesday, the day set support his position.
aside by a decision of the Speaker Thomas
House on Monday, for sided with the Prime
debate on the No Confidence Minister, explaining
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves may have motion. that what was proffered
caught the Opposition off-guard when he rose The Prime Minister by the Prime Minister
to table an amendment to the original motion of Speaker of the House Jomo Thomas skillfully
tabled the amendment and was that managed a barrage of sometimes heated
No Confidence.
exchanges between members of the House and
Continued on Page 3. himself.
Left: Opposition
Members of the
House left the
Sitting and did
not return for the
debate on the
Confidence
motion.
Right: Opposition
Senator Kay
Bacchus-Browne
(right), pictured in
conversation with
the Clerk of the
House, made a
spirited and
thoughtful
objection to the
how and when
the amended
motion was made
and accepted.
V
2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN
People
Former British
sailor returns
THE SOUFRIERE eruptions of many. between October 1971 and government services both
1902 and 1979 perhaps But history has recorded March 1972. here and in Britain, under
stand out in the minds of that there were eruptions The eruption was whose colonial rule St
in 1718 and 1812. subaqueous, taking place Vincent and the
Mike Goff and his wife More recently, though, some 180 metres below the Grenadines was at the
Maria visited with THE but before that last blast on crater, resulting in the time.
VINCENTIAN to reminisce Good Friday morning in emergence of a dome in the Fast forward some 47
about Mike’s duty in St. ’79, there was some activity crater. That dome years. Fogg, accompanied
Vincent in 1971. recorded at La Soufriere, blew/burst partially during by wife Maria, visited the
the 1979 eruption, land that he had served
spew molten rocks on before. They arrived in
to those communities SVG, not as Naval sailors,
immediately in the but as passengers on the
vicinity of the volcano. Cruise Liner Brittania
Mike Fogg which made a port call
remembers the ’71 (Kingstown), on Friday,
eruption all too well. January 26.
He was then a The couple said that
Petty Officer/Gunner they walked around
with the Royal Navy Kingstown, visited the
and stationed on the Botanical Gardens and, of
HMS Phoebe, which course, stopped by the
was on patrol duty in office of THE
the waters of the VINCENTIAN.
Caribbean, on the Mike said that he and
lookout for smugglers. his wife decided
The Russians were immediately to take a
also under watch from cruise, once they heard that
some of the world’s the vessel was expected to
super powers then, he make a call in St Vincent.
quipped. “I was quite excited
Mike also served as about coming back,” he told
the ship’s THE VINCENTIAN,
photographer, and adding that quite a lot had
while on tour in the changed in the close to five
region, was called to decades since his first visit.
St Vincent in 1971, to Mike said that he spent
assist with setting up a total of 56 years with the
camps for persons British Navy, having
forced to evacuate enlisted in 1950.
from the immediate
He and his wife now
vicinity of the volcano.
They were docked reside in the town of New
for a total of three Southampton, England.
weeks, with Fogg For Mike, St. Vincent,
documenting the especially during the
mission with his challenges of 1971, would
camera. forever be etched in his
Copies of his work memories. (DD)
were sent to the
Photograph of the crater of La Soufriere Volcano,
St. Vincent, showing the 1971-1972 dome. (Credit:
UWI)
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. 3.
News 3
SVG granted debt
forgiveness
THIS COUNTRY HAS, once again,
been the beneficiary of the
Gonsalves added that more
forgiveness was forthcoming.
sinking fund and amortized
bonds issued, which
kindness of the Government of Prime Minister Dr Ralph increased by EC$55.2
the Bolivarian Republic of Gonsalves and President million inclusive of a
Venezuela. Nicolas Maduro had already EC$35 million bond issue
According to the Finance held discussions for an applied to the re-purchase
Minister Camillo, the additional debt forgiveness of of majority shares in the
Government of President EC$100 million under the Petro Bank of St Vincent and the
Nicolas Maduro has granted Caribe arrangement, he Grenadines (BOSVG).
debt forgiveness to this country, disclosed. Bonds used to fund the
to the tune of EC$81 million. The obvious impact of this implementation of the
Gonsalves made the debt forgiveness, said Minister Public Sector Improvement
announcement while delivering Gonsalves, was a reduction in Progamme also contributed
the 2018 Estimates of Revenue the overall external debt and to the increase.
and Expenditure at Monday’s the debt to GDP ratio. Overdraft and liabilities
sitting of Parliament. increased by EC$3.5
He explained that the SVG’s debt million in the Accountant
EC$81 million debt forgiveness General’s account,
was in relation to a loan toward As far as this country’s Gonsalves said.
construction cost of the Argyle indebtedness is concerned, the Debt service for 2018
International Airport. external debt as of September amounted to EC$221.7
“For a long time, we held our 30, 2017, according to million, made up of:
tongue while people talked Gonsalves, amounted to EC$1.1 interest payments
about debt at the airport. We billion. amounting to EC$62.2
already knew that we were The overall public debt million; amortization funds
going to get $81 million debt amounted to EC$1.68 billion, of EC$137.5 million; and
forgiveness, but it was not the which, according to the Finance sinking fund contributions
opportune time to do that,” the Minister, reflected a marginal of EC$22 million. (DD)
Minister of Finance said. increase of .2 percent over the
As a result of the kind corresponding period for 2016.
gesture, Gonsalves said that the Total domestic debt stood at Right: President Nicolas Maduro
overall amount owed in relation EC$572.6 million. and Prime Minister Dr. Ralph
to the construction of the Gonsalves explained that the Gonsalves have already struck
airport was now EC$320 main changes in the domestic another deal for debt
million. debt were as a result of the forgiveness to this country.
No Confidence motion shot down
Continued from Front Senator, Kay Bacchus- Confidence motion, that motion,” she said. motion whenever they decision ( to accept the
Page. Baptiste interjected the motion was brought “What you are want to,” he said. Confidence motion) had
stating that the NDP had forward and that such proposing is not “Our rules are very been made and at the
there was an amendment submitted a motion motions were usually constitutionally correct, clear on the matter; the end there would be a
to the motion, and that under Section 47, and sought when when we are here to members on this side vote when the question
although there was an that if the government governments were guilty debate a No Confidence proposed a motion; what was put, and that that
amendment to the side wanted to bring an of encouraging poor motion,” Bacchus- the members on the question will be in
motion of No Confidence amendment to the economic conditions and Baptiste concluded. other side are prosing is relation to the
coming from the majority original motion, then scandals, which drew The Leader of the contrary to our amendment.
party, opposition under Section 32, it reaction from the Opposition Dr. Godwin motion…this is a motion Following a two-hour
members could still cannot be brought and government side. Friday added his bit, for No Confidence in the suspension of the Sitting,
speak to their motion negate the No “If you want to bring a saying , “This is not an government,” Dr. Friday the members of the
and then have a vote Confidence motion. Confidence motion, you amendment, even the added. government debated and
based on the She added that it was have to bring it, (you) title of the motion has Prime Minister adopted the motion of
amendment. for that very reason, that cannot bring an been changed, even the Gonsalves, however, got Confidence, in the
However, recently of the government was amendment to negate clause has been changed. in the last word, saying absence of the members
appointed Opposition trying to negate the No our No Confidence They can bring that that a preliminary of the opposition. (DD)
V
4. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN
Court
Bacchus-Baptiste
responds to Connell
Stories by opposition New have been guided by her Farrell removed from the
HAYDN HUGGINS Democratic Party (NDP) “political rudder.” Mental Health Centre
Senator, was responding Connell had also where she was sent by
ATTORNEY Kay Bacchus- to comments made by accused Bacchus- the court for two weeks
Baptiste has never been Farrell’s lawyer - Grant Baptiste of verbally observation, but was
involved, or sought to be Connell who told THE attacking him in the ordered to remain there
involved, in the VINCENTIAN on media, in relation to his for an additional week to
Magistrate’s Court matter Tuesday, that he made a handling of the matter. await the court’s ruling
concerning fashion model decision not to allow But Bacchus-Baptiste on legal submissions in
Yugge Farrell. Bacchus-Baptiste to join told THE VINCENTIAN relation to a medical Attorneys Kay Bacchus-Baptiste and Grant
In making this clear his legal team. that Connell, her friend report. Connell disagree on a certain issue but both insist
she, however, explained In his view, which he and colleague for many That report had they are still colleagues.
that she was asked by said he had expressed to years, never said concluded that Farrell
Farrell’s family to deal her in person, it would anything to her about was not fit to plead to In contrast to what 5, and that the Prime
with the human rights have been perceived that excluding her from the the charge of making use Connell said, the veteran Minister spoke after.
aspect of the case. her involvement, as his legal team,. of abusive language, in lawyer insisted that the “Anyone who says that
Bacchus-Baptiste, an senior in the case, would Connell, instead, had circumstances likely to case cannot be separated this matter is not
spoken to the media, she cause a breach of the from politics. She noted political has on blinkers,
said. peace, to which she had that the complainant, and is not forthright,”
Veteran attorney Bacchus-Baptiste
made it clear that,
having been contacted by
already pleaded not
guilty.
Bacchus-Baptiste has
Karen Duncan-
Gonsalvesm, is the wife
of Finance Minister
Bacchus-Baptiste aid.
She also denied
verbally attacking
plays observer role Farrell’s family, her role
was to secure the
services of an
repeatedly expressed the
view that Farrell was
wrongly sent to the
Camillo Gonsalves who is
the subject of a number
Connell, saying that all
she did was to voice her
opposition to Connell’s
VETERAN LAWYER Bayliss Frederick informed independent qualified of allegations in relation
Mental Health Centre. to the Yugge Farrell efforts to have the case
the Kingstown Magistrate’s Court on Monday that psychiatrist to evaluate In that light, she
he was asked to observe the proceedings in the saga. heard in camera, and to
the defendant. declared that if she was take Farrell out of the
case of Vincentian fashion model Yugge Farrell, This was She further noted that
who is charged with using abusive language in defending Farrell in the Storm Gonsalves, country, which she
accomplished. court matter, she would thought would not have
circumstances likely to cause a breach of the Psychiatrist Dr. Hazel Camillo’s brother, was
peace. have made an the first family member been in the girl’s best
Ortello of Trinidad and application to the High interest.
The matter was adjourned Tobago, did a session to speak on the matter,
from January 22 to Monday Court to get Farrell out when he called to a radio But the lawyer
with Farrell on Monday by day two. insisted, “He (Connell)
for Senior Magistrate Rickie afternoon. programme, some three
Burnett to rule on oral ‘There are law cases in days after Farrell had remains my colleague,
Bacchus-Baptiste the Caribbean to support and I will continue to
submissions presented by added that she was also made her first court
Farrell’s lawyer Grant my position,” she appearance on January give him advice, if he
committed to having asks for it.”
Connell and Director of asserted.
Public Prosecutions (DPP)
Colin Williams, in relation to
a medical report submitted
by the Mental Health Centre.
Barbadian QC leads in YuggeÊs case
That report, following two GRANT CONNELL, one of the Bacchus-Baptiste, with whom Gonsalves,
week’ observation of Farrell, lawyers in the case of Vincentian Connell has a very close working Senior Crown
concluded that she was not fit fashion model Yugge Farrell, says relation for many years, was not Counsel in
to plead. that Andrew Pilgrim QC of included in the legal team, the Attorney
As proceedings
commenced, Frederick, who Barbados, now the lead lawyer in Connell said, “This is not about General’s
was seated at the bar table, the matter, is a man of integrity Grant Connell, Andrew Pilgrim, Chambers,
Bayliss Frederick, rose as a friend of the court, for whom he holds high esteem. Kay Bacchus-Baptiste, or any and is the
an elder among saying that he was asked by Connell who was speaking to other lawyer for that matter. This wife of
legal practitioners several overseas persons and THE VINCENTIAN on Tuesday, is about the healing process of a Finance
here, explained associations to observe the added, “I willingly accepted the daughter of the soil” Minister
that he was proceedings, in light of the Queen Counsel’s kind and timely Connell, however, added, “I Camillo
requested by regional and international offer to assist in this matter.” have no issue with Kay Bacchus- Gonsalves,
overseas parties attention the matter has been Pilgrim and Connell are Baptiste. I wish her all the very son of Prime
to observe the receiving. representing Farrell pro bono. best in her political career. I have Minister Dr. Andrew Pilgrim,
But Senior Magistrate
court proceedings Rickie Burnett told him to Connell introduced Pilgrim to the warned her about the hostile Ralph QC, no stranger
in the matter wait, and went on to deal court on Monday. territory that she has chosen to Gonsalves. to the courts of
involving Yugge with the matter. Farrell has been charged with, enter, so I could only keep her in In his SVG, has joined
Farrell. In his ruling, Burnett said that on January 4, 2018, at my prayers.” ruling on the legal team of
that he was satisfied that the Granby Street, Kingstown, in He insisted that, “She is my Monday, on Yugge Farrell.
report, signed by district medical officer at the circumstances likely to cause a friend and colleague for many legal
Mental Health Centre, Dr. Sonasree breach of the peace, did make use years. We have worked together submissions made the week before
Jammulapati, was properly before the court, as he of abusive language to Karen in many cases, and my respect for by Connell and Director of Public
had received documentation which showed that Duncan-Gonsalves, to wit, “You her will continue, despite her Prosecutions (DPP) Colin
the doctor was qualified in the field of psychiatry. dirty bitch”. verbal attacks on me, in media, Williams, the Senior Magistrate
Following the ruling, Frederick rose again
saying, “We have provided a qualified Senior Magistrate Rickie for the manner in which I have said that the court has received
psychiatrist.” Burnett granted Farrell $1,000 been dealing with the case”, documentation on the
The lawyer went on to say, “What I am bail with one surety when she Connell said. qualifications of Dr. Sonasree
concerned about is the integrity of our justice returned to court on Monday. Connell thanked Bacchus- Jummulapati, who signed the
system.” Bail was granted following Baptiste for securing the services medical report, and he was
Farrell was released on $1,000 bail with one ruling in which the court accepted of an independent Psychiatrist Dr. satisfied that the report was
surety, and the matter was adjourned to the findings of a report from the Hazel Ortello of Trinidad and properly before the Court, as Dr.
December 17, 2018. Mental Health Centre which Tobago who, he said, would help Jammulapati is qualified in the
Speaking with THE VINCENTIAN later, concluded that Farrell was not fit in ensuring that Farrell be her field of Psychiatry.
Frederick said, “This whole thing needs a to plead. The matter has been best again. Burnett made reference to
constitutional solution, so we could know what is
the truth, and to determine what should be the adjourned to December 17. The complainant in the Yugge provisions in the Mental Act to
consequences.” When asked why attorney Kay Farrell matter is Karen Duncan- support his decision.
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. 5.
Regional
Prime Minister and leader of the NNP – Dr. Keith Mitchell addressing party
supporters last Sunday. (Credit: Grenada Advocate)
Grenadians to
vote on
March 13
THE PEOPLE OF GRENADA, Terry
Carriacou and Petit Martinique will Forrester of
go to the polls on March 13, 2018. the GPM,
The date is a significant one. was a former
It marks 39 years since the executive
People’s Revolutionary member of
Government (PRG) took the reins Mitchell’s NNP.
of government on March 13,
1979, when Maurice Bishop’s New
Jewel Movement (NJM) overthrew the
— Dr. Keith Mitchell, said that
Eric Gairy government in an armed
Parliament will be dissolved on
coup.
Monday and Nomination Day will be
Speaking at a rally of his New
Tuesday, February 20.
National Party (NNP) on Sunday,
Dr. Mitchell assured thousands of
leader of the party and Prime Minister
supporters at last Sunday’s rally at
the National Stadium, that he was
confident of the NNP’s return to
government.
In fact, he said, his party had no
intention of losing any of the 15 seats
it won in the 2013 poll.
When general elections were last
held in Grenada on February 19, 2013,
Mitchell’s New National Party (NNP)
won all 15 elected seats for the second
time, ousting the then National
Democratic Congress party led by
Prime Minister Tillman Thomas.
While, up to press time, there was
no comment from the National
Democratic Congress on the date of
elections, Terry Forrester, the political
leader of the Grenada Progressive
Movement (GPM), said, “…it is
insensitive and callous of the prime
minister to mark this date for our
general elections.”
Forrester said further that the state
“..still remains a very hurtful date in
the minds of many Grenadians,
considering the fact that our people
and nation were thrown into political
disarray and chaos, which led to so
much pain, suffering and loss of lives.
It is not the first time that
Grenadians will vote in a general
election on March 13. They did so in
the 1990. (Sources: CMC, Caribbean
News Now, Grenada Advocate)
V
6. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN
Diaspora
SVG Diaspora
Committee/NY
gets new President
Stories and photos Diaspora. development issues.” She represented St.
by NELSON A. KING “I am also humbled by the Additionally, Mason- Vincent and the
naking@verizon.net; confidence that members of the Haywood said she will continue Grenadines at the 1998
kingnaking210@yahoo.com committee have bestowed on me to consolidate the work of the United Nations World
US CORRESPONDENT to take on this new leadership Committee’s cultural and Youth Forum and the
position,” she added. “It is also sporting organizations — Ministers Responsible
SHERRILL-ANN MASON- an interesting time as we are Cultural Association of for Youth Conference —
HAYWOOD, the widow of the late, witnessing an upsurge and Vincentians in the U.S.A. and both in Portugal, where
prominent Vincentian community increase in women assuming SVG-U.S.A. Sports Association — she met her late
activist Maxwell Haywood, has key leadership roles in politics, and connecting the Heritage husband. She was later
succeeded him in leading the business and civil society. So, I Awards to “a process of awarded an internship
Brooklyn-based St. Vincent and am more than happy to be a documenting the legacy of our with the United Nations
the Grenadines (SVG) Diaspora part of this cultural shift. Vincentian icons.” Youth Program in New
Committee of New York. “I want to ride this wave to Another major focus will be York in 2000.
Mason-Haywood was elected encourage other women in the mobilizing the Vincentian Mason-Haywood
chairperson during the group’s Vincentian community to community to acquire a continued her
annual general meeting, on Jan. become more involved in Vincentian-owned Community involvement in the
20, at the Friends of Crown leadership roles and to bring Center that can be used for community, serving as
Heights Educational Center in Vincentians together to address hosting Vincentian functions president of the
Brooklyn, becoming the second some of the most pressing issues and activities, Mason-Haywood Vincentian Student Sherrill-Ann Mason-Haywood at the
person to hold the position since of the day,” Mason-Haywood said. Association of NY in the VincyCares Awards and Honor
the group was formed in 2010. continued. “One of the things She is joined in the early 2000s. Currently, Ceremony in Brooklyn in early
Her husband was chairperson that Maxwell really promoted, leadership of the SVG Diaspora she serves as chair of the December, where her late husband,
from the inception until his and I would like to continue to Committee of NY by Atiba Board of the Traditional Maxwell Haywood, was honored
death in November, after a push for is greater unity among Williams (vice president); Educational Daycare posthumously.
seven-month battle with cancer. Vincentians.” Philmore Sprott (general Centers and as a
Mason-Haywood previously She said she would also like secretary); Theophilus Marshall member of the Education Bachelor of Arts (honors) in
served as general secretary, to work in strengthening the (treasurer); Francesca Sam and Youth Committee of Sociology and Radio
public relations officer and organization’s structure and (assistant secretary/treasurer); Community Board 9 in Broadcasting from the City
coordinator of the Leadership embarking on a strategic Franklyn “Supadex” Richards Brooklyn. University of New York (CUNY)
Development Workshop series recruitment drive “that will (public relations officer); and In 2016, she was appointed Baccalaureate Program, and a
for the SVG Diaspora allow the committee to expand Garnes Byron, Dawn Dopwell director of the Percy. E. Sutton Master of Science degree (M.S.)
Committee of NY. its reach and scope. and Terrance Edwards Search for Education Elevation in Urban Affairs from Hunter
“This is a bitter-sweet time “This also means (trustees). and Knowledge (SEEK) College (CUNY) with a
for me to assume leadership of strengthening old alliances and Mason-Haywood has been Program at Brooklyn’s concentration in Community
the organization, since this forging new partnerships,” involved in community predominantly Black Medgar Development and Social Policy.
follows the passing of my Mason-Haywood said. “Most development organizations since Evers College. Prior to that In 2008 — 2010, she was
husband, who was the founding specifically, I would like to her youth, having served as an appointment, she served as the awarded a Thurgood Marshall
chairman of the organization,” refocus the organization on its officer of the Girls’ Brigade; Academic Program Manager, Pathways Fellowship and
she told THE VINCENTIAN in policy focus and to position the National Olympic Academy; adjunct lecturer and advisor. In earned a post-graduate
an exclusive interview. committee as a major think- SVG Track and Field 2009, she was recognized as the certificate (2010) in Strengths-
“However, I feel uniquely poised tank in the Vincentian and Association; and vice president college’s Higher Education based Education from Gallup
to carry on his vision for the Caribbean Diasporas, especially of the National Youth Council of Officer of the Year. University’s, Clifton Strengths
organization and the Vincentian focusing on migration and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Mason-Haywood holds a School.
Haywood remembered by SVG Ex-Teachers
THE ST. VINCENT AND writer for this magazine unlocks the power of the each of us, show clearly “SVG has lost a good
THE GRENADINES Ex- for many years, Brother Diaspora. that we will never ever son, who lived his life in
Teachers Association of Maxwell Haywood,” said “Vincentians are a again forsake unity in the service of his homeland
New York two Sundays the group on page 26 of powerful people, and it community. Let us all, and who made tangible
ago, paid tribute to the journal that was has been the strong sense each of us, answer the call contribution to our beloved
prominent Vincentian distributed to patrons on of unity among the people of our organizations for nation in several ways,
community activist the anniversary gala at that has allowed us to united action…Forward including his writings,” he
Maxwell Haywood, who Grand Prospect Hall in thrive over the years,” he ever, backward never!” added. “The progressive
succumbed to cancer after Brooklyn. “We grant that said. “As a people, we did In his tribute, Dr. community of SVG is
a seven-month battle. He perpetual light shine upon not get this far on a free Ambris said that Haywood somewhat dimmer today
was 53. you.” ride. We struggled hard by “gave it all he had.” with the passing of
The Brooklyn-based The other — of seven working together for the He then read a poem, Maxwell ‘Iwaki’
group devoted seven full pages — comprised progress we have made.” which states in part: “The Haywood.”
pages of its 60-page excerpts from Haywood’s Haywood said this clock of life is wound/the St. Vincent and the
souvenir journal, final speech on April 1, unity began a long time last click, the last Grenadines New York Maxwell ‘Iwaki’ Haywood
commemorating its 35th 2017 at the Brooklyn- ago, stating that “a click/And time had run Consul General Howie was remembered as one
anniversary, to Haywood, based Friends of Sion Hill powerful example of this our course/the next clock Prince said: “2017 saw who lived his life in
who, up to his death on gala; poetry by ex- was the unity of our great will be/For those left great sadness descending service to his homeland,
Nov. 29, was president of teachers’ trustee Dr. ancestors who defended behind.” on the NY Diaspora with St. Vincent and the
the Brooklyn- Herman Ambris; and a St. Vincent and the Gordon said it was with the passing of the giant Grenadines.
headquartered St. Vincent tribute by member Samuel Grenadines (SVG) for “a heavy heart and a deep activist, scholar and
and the Grenadines “Kala” Gordon. hundreds of years, so that sense of pain that we, Ex- mobilizer, brother will stand as a lasting
Diaspora Committee of In his address at the the slave owners and Teachers, are saying Maxwell ‘Iwaki’ Haywood. tribute, recognizing the
New York. Sion Hill affair, Haywood colonists were not able to farewell to one of the “Let us band together legacy of this great son of
“This paper is dedicated had urged continued unity conquer SVG.” hardest working, genuine to ensure that 2018 will be our soil of whom we
in honour of our friend, among Vincentians, saying He ended his address Vincentians here in the the year when we create a remain very proud,” said
colleague and ardent that it was “the key that by stating: “Let us all, Diaspora. tangible memorial that Prince in his address in
the journal.
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. 7.
News
Woman charged
for abandoning
children
TAMARA LAVIA,
the mother of
eight- month-
year-old
Simrique Lavia
who died as a
result of burns
received in a
fire that
occurred in a
two-storey
house at Upper
New Montrose,
has been
charged for
abandoning the
child, he being
a child under The ground floor of the building where a fire caused d burns
the age of 2 to three children, resulting in one fatality. (Photo Credit:
years. SVG TV)
Lavia is also
charged with having abandoned one- under control, their job made easier
year-old Simonique Lavia, she being a because of the quick action neighbours
child under the age of 2 years, in had taken before the arrival of the fire
relation to the fore-mentioned fire. unit.
The woman, 28 years old and The Police also said that
currently unemployed, is the mother of information revealed that the eldest
Simirique and Simonique. child ran out of the house to seek help,
The charges stem from what police leaving her three siblings behind.
said was a fire that occurred on Apploniyia and Simonique received
January 26, at around 10:30pm, in the light burns about their bodies, but
ground floor of the two-storey building. Simirique sustained burns to ninety
The ground floor was occupied by percent of her body, and succumbed to
Lavia and her children: Itika — 6 years his injuries at the Milton Cato
old; Apploniyia — 3 years old; and Memorial Hospital.
Simonique and Simirique. When the mother appeared before
The police said in a Release this Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne at
week, that they received information the Serious Offences Court on Monday,
that the woman left the children at she was denied bail and remanded
home in a bedroom with a single until February 18, when she is
candle burning, and went to Heritage expected to reappear at the said court.
Square, a popular The matter has evoked strong
recreational/entertainment spot in public condemnation of the woman,
Kingstown. with some callers to radio programmes
The Fire Department was and user of social murder, wondering
summoned, and the firemen whether she would be charged in
dispatched were able to bring the fire connection with the child’s death.
Homicide No. 2 recorded
THIS COUNTRY HAS neck and his feet, and
RECORDED its second his groin showed signs of
homicide for the year. having been burned.
Police confirmed that Millington’s death
they are investigating aroused deep sentiments
the circumstances among the football
surrounding the death of fraternity here.
Omar Millington, He was an
familiarly known as outstanding goalkeeper
‘Chiney’, a 32-year-old for Prospect F.C., and
resident of Lowmans when he decided to call it
Hill, who was originally a day from standing
from Glen. between the uprights, he
Millington’s body was took to refereeing.
discovered around Up to his death, he
6:30am on Saturday 27th was an active member of
January at Sion Hill the SVG Referees Omar Millington,
beach. Association, and one of colleagues say, had a
The body lay face his colleagues told THE passion for football.
down and showed chop VINCENTIAN, that he (Photo: Omar
wounds. A rope, police had plans to become a Millington’s facebook
said, was tied around his FIFA certified referee. page)
V
8. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
The National Newspaper of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Managing Editor: Desiree Richards
Editor: Cyprian Neehall
Telephone: 784-456-1123 Fax: 784-451-2129
Website: www.thevincentian.com
Email: vinpub@thevincentian.com
Mailing Address: The Vincentian Publishing Co. Ltd.,
P.O. Box 592, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Editorial
Ethics and morality in
public office Lloyd Lewis and Glenford Prescott:
IN THE WAKE OF RECENT ALLEGATIONS of ‘moral deviance’ by another
public officer here, one cannot be faulted for asking whether there is a
systemic problem of ethical behaviour and morality defects in public
service agencies, to include government. In fact, one could well be
Rest in Peace
moved to broaden the question and ask whether there is a systemic IN THE CHALLENGING SITUATION
problem of ethical behaviour and morality defects in the society as a regarding my health, I was served a
whole. double whammy in the death
And in the wake of the recent allegations as played out on social announcements of two Sion Hill icons, politics where we generally saw eye-to-
media, in mainstream media and in public discourses, the person at national heroes in the strictest sense, eye. Lloyd was a great organiser who,
whom fingers have been pointed, turns to his political party for Glenford Prescott not yet 60 years, and with his team of villagers, elders and the
defence. The resulting defence is, as always, that the public officer so
the veteran Lloyd Lewis in his eighties. youth, virtually built the modern Sion Hill
fingered, is being castigated by his political nemeses for some
imagined political interests. The deaths have contributed to our with their own hands.
Whatever the machinations and permutations that have arisen as present political malaise, both men being He was an enthusiast for sports,
a result of the latest finger-pointing, we ought to be demanding a great advocates of progressive SVG, both particularly cricket. He had been
new focus on leadership criteria — criteria founded, in the main, on committed body and soul to cultural instrumental in creating Sion Hill own
moral aptitude. For, if nothing is done to correct the dastardly emancipation, sport development, with a cricket field where I had the honour to
behaviour that passes off as ‘we ting’, if nothing is done to improve particular focus on the youth. play in the grand-opening match. I made
ethics and morality issues, the public will soon lose all trust and I take the more recent passing of the first duck as opening batsman. Arthur
confidence in public service agencies — government. Pressy with whom I had no contact for Williams had been my opening partner.
Take it or leave it, most of us have an internal ‘moral compass’ nearly three years, on account of my own I was again connected with the only
that tells us what is right and wrong. Our actions ought to be problems. Like all of SVG knows, Pressy project in which Lloyd recorded failure.
determined by that indication leading us, if we chose that which is had been a sports administrator, a After registering a series of success, Lloyd
right, to action that maintains our integrity — which for this purpose carnival adjudicator and a journalist of went for the big one! His enthusiasms
can be defined as the personal quality of having high moral class, a real fore-runner of his friend, about youthful cricket led him to sponsor
principles. Kenton Chance whose bold journalism a pair of youngsters to attend the Alf
Ethical behaviour, that which is founded on integrity, demands today helps to keep steady a tottering Gover School of Cricket in England. The
that we use our moral compass to guide us in our interactions with SVG. project flopped. The disappointed duo
others so as to inspire others to trust us. I have a simple but real remembrance were Darnley Joseph and my son Adrian!
Personal moral standards, therefore, have to be impeccable — no of Glenford. As the person manning the Otherwise, Lloyd was like King Midas:
more applicable than when one chooses to offer himself for public Sport Desk at Radio 705, he noted that everything he touched turned gold. A
service. Ethics in public service, some say, ought to be of the highest his country had been blessed with a greater loss was when in 2001 NDP lost
imaginable moral standards.
coterie of incisive commentators who the national elections to ULP, but like me,
Public officials are given the trust of the public to develop and
carry out policies, and set examples of becoming lifestyles. contributed voluntarily to broadcasts, and he attributed the loss to pilferage of votes.
Lest they forget, living up to this trust has a significant impact on deserved some token for their efforts. So, Until the turn of the century, Lloyd ran
the national psyche and impacts attitudes. Thus, public officials he persuaded Corlita Olliverre to present a barber shop which was like a People’s
have a moral duty to act in a trustworthy and morally inspiring the announcers with medals for their Parliament. Whenever I needed a haircut,
manner. splendid contribution. Lloyd would put me down last on his list,
This brings us to the question of how community leaders and In a letter to the Programme Manager after 6:00pm, so that we could talk
public officers are identified and assessed and groomed. Are we to dated May 5 2003, he had said: “I wish to politics.
rely on what a person says he/she stands for? bring to the fore the work of Messrs Before 2000, Ralph had been a repeated
Much of a person’s ethical standards are formed through Harley Williams, Lennox John, Michael visitor who was told where to get off, but
upbringing and the value system established within his or her family Findlay, Winston Baptiste, Frank persisted until he learnt from Lloyd
environment. Developing a moral compass later in life should be Thomas, George Phillips, Owen Cuffy, and what the people disliked about him, then
easy; but its appears, given what we are wont to accept as ‘we ting’, Dr. Kenneth John who all worked as ball- armed with this knowledge, he
that it is not at all that easy. by-ball commentators or analysts on both subsequently used it in good stead.
Notwithstanding, the public officer is morally bound, just as are football and cricket matches. ….. It is Now Lloyd has gone for good, but we
other persons, to tell the truth, to resist using authority for personal recommended that a small ceremony as a still have to contend with Ralph, his
aggrandisement and gratification, to keep promises, to respect the show of appreciation for these men’s family and his disciples.
person and the property of others, and to abide by the requirements contribution be held where they would be As we go to print, the House is locked
of the law. honoured, and given some form of token over a No Confidence motion where it
But the overriding moral obligation of public officers is to follow for their work”. seems that the ULP has bullied the ULP
established procedures and uphold what is good and moral, not to use It remains the only award I have Speaker finally, to a ruling which
their power to circumvent those procedures for their own convenience
received in SVG which I proudly display practically dismisses altogether the
or benefit. Power must be used fairly and for the benefit of the public,
not to take advantage of the meek and weak. in my office. efficacy of all “No Confidence” for all time.
Taking moral responsibility is a show of high integrity and a sign Teary-eyed, I now recommend that an No wonder the people now accept that
of democratic and political maturity among holders of public offices. appropriate posthumous award granted to the law is an ass, whereas it is really the
One who deviates from what is moral and voluntarily steps aside Pressy, which his family and friends assininity of misinterpreting lawyer!
is likely to earn more respect from the public than one who does not. would no doubt revere with proud And the election petition is still to be
Our leaders should take moral responsibility for their dockets, and thanksgiving. decided and Yugge case settled! Lloyd
stop the culture of defending wrongdoings by public officers in the Lloyd Lewis is a household name in the and Pressy have gone to a resting place of
guise of ‘defending our own’. He was a close and abiding friend in eternal rest and peace: lucky them!
V
THE VINCENTIAN. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. 9.
Letters
Blacks must implement global power shift
THE US PRESIDENT has labelled African are receiving in benefits. Despite themselves to remain at the top and Black people are surrounded by
nations as ‘shitholes’ and questioned immigrants and refugees contributing the black people continue to fund their wealth; we don’t need the US for
why they (Africans) continue to come to significantly to propelling the US own demise. anything. Let’s cit ties and forge new
America. economy, the US administration Black people across the world need ones. We black people must focus on
The US president appears to blame doesn’t want African migrants. to unite or find themselves back in getting reparations for the slave trade
black people for having a negative The UK isn’t talking like the US, chains. As black people, we must and take our rightful stand in the
impact on the US economy, whilst in but in many ways have walked the accept we are all Africans, and that an globe.
fact, the US government’s own report same path, Brexit led the way; the attack on Africa is an attack on all
shows refugees are paying $6,000,000, world is taking a global economic shift; black people. To think otherwise is to Kadmiel
yes, $6 billion a year more than they global power structures adjust be foolish. McFee
Clamp down on crime
A FEW YEARS ago, Now, I read where area. back to square one and
A note to
our writers
when Prime Minister Prime Minister Andrew You see, when things worse.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar Holness in Jamaica has get bad and you know If we know where the EDITOR’S Note: Some
of T&T introduced a declared a State of where it coming from, crime comes from, why of these letters have
State of Emergency to Emergency for the north been edited for length,
you need to deal with it not, with the necessary
help stem crime in places of that island. That is accuracy and slander.
directly. law behind us, move to We reserve this right,
like Laventille and where most of the That is what should clamp it out, once and for
Movant, people cried her tourism is centred. and hope that those
have happened here. all? who choose the pages
down. They claimed that Funny thing, I didn’t The Police here I hope that the recent
an Indian Prime hear a ‘boo’ about it. In of THE VINCENTIAN to
designated certain areas killing in Sharpes is not express their views,
Minister had unleashed fact, I gather that
as crime spots, moved in a sign of things to come. would do so with care
the army on poor Black Jamaicans support the
Trinidadians. As usual State of Emergency, on the residents without and attention for others.
total backing of the law, George Chambers
in T&T, everything boil since there has been a
down to race. trail of murders in that and what happen?. We
Teach the youth morals No to a Gonsalves dynasty THANKS for publishing Dr. Gonsalves knows family.
FROM ALL REPORTS, breakdown of the family. younger today than they my piece last week. Now that he has the majority The history of Jamaica
last year showed again Some may say that our were a few decades ago. that I have broken the of black Vincentians and Antigua is fraught
that much of the violent teachers are not Children are raising ice, I feel I must express eating out of his hand. In with examples of what a
crimes in SVG was assisting with the children … that can my take, as a Vincentian, that situation he can do political dynasty could
committed by young men socialization of the young never be a good thing for on some things that as he pleases, when he mean for a country, i.e.
— those we call young people, but I maintain the society down the bother me. pleases and how he who benefits the most.
adults. If that is the that a closer look has to road. One of those things pleases. The days of Then again, it is all a
case, then it is easy to be taken at what is going We as a nation have to has to do with how Dr. ‘Massa’ are certainly not question of who wins at
conclude that our young on in our family commit to building an Ralph Gonsalves thinks over if that is the case. the polls. Vincentians
people have become structure. environment that he can simply bequeath How can the other can show their disgust
uncaring, with no regard There is no doubt that encourages good values, the chair of prime members of the ULP who for this by voting out the
for their peers and the lack of proper and this must start from minister to his on. He have been in the ULP at the next general
others. parenting — that is the the very top — our thinks (or is it that trenches far longer than elections.
And then there are teaching of proper government, our Vincentians make him Dr. Gonsalves’ son (not
those who would put the morals and a sense of churches, our schools. so) that he has the right that he been in the C Smith
blame for this rise in cooperation - has fueled Parents, while they to literally make way for trenches at all), stand New York
crime on bad the rush of young people must not forsake their his son, by easing him idly by and allow this to
management of the into all kinds of immoral responsibilities, will into government through be poured down their
economy, which gives behavior — sex, drugs, continue to have a hard a safe seat. Clearly the throats? Have they
rise to serious crime, etc. time when those in plan was hatched a long become all church mice?
unemployment among But I am also aware leadership positions do time ago! If not, why did What are they afraid of?
the youth. that in many homes, not uphold good moral his son not contest in a It is time that the
While this may be those who are parents standards. seat where he would members of the ULP to * What’s the
true to a point, I want to are unable to teach what have had to fight for his take back the ULP. latest on the
advance the view that is right and what is Lawrence life? Why didn’t he, for There would have been Buccament Bay
the real cause is the wrong. Parents are example, contest against no Ralph Gonsalves Resort? Thought it
Mr. Eustace in East without the others who was to be re-opened
Those boat rides Kingstown?
(Someone once told me
that a Gonsalves could
never win a Kingstown
ran for government and
won. People like Daniel
and Caesar will be doing
this country a great
last month?
* Has the case
against Mr. David
I SEE THAT the Boat and back. So a lot of wonder if there is a list seat) disservice if they stand Ames been quashed?
Ride business is back on time is spent on the boat. of boats registered as This is not how the by and accept the
keel. A Boat Ride My concern is not to ‘party boats’ with the change of leadership passage of leadership * Can we expect a
dubbed ‘HOTTGAL 6’ is stop this kind of outing Marine Department should work. Then down through the revision of some of
advertised for February but to urge those who here. Those boats would again, it must be that generations of one those charges that
11, 2018 on board the are thinking about have to have certain foreign-owned banks
MV Gem Star, sailing making the ride, to make slap on us?
safety requirements and
from Kingstown to sure that the vessel is special insurance.
Canouan. * What is the
properly prepared for the All I can say to those Ministry of
Now I don’t have use it is being put to, making the trip is to
anything against these Education doing
and to get this assurance party responsibly. about the number of
boat rides which are
from the promoters. MV Always remember that fights among
really parties on the sea,
since there is usually lots Gem Star is a good boat things are different on secondary school
to drink and music to with a good captain, but the sea from things on students here?
party to, as the boat this Boat Ride business land. Things take longer Then again, is the
makes its way, usually is not its everyday to happen at sea but … . Ministry aware of
sailing at a not too fast business. this?
pace, to its destination And as I say that, I Retired Boat Rider
V
10. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 02, 2018. THE VINCENTIAN
Views
Highlights of the 2018 Estimates No Confidence in the ULP Government
ON MONDAY 29TH JANUARY 2018, the
Introduction New Democratic Party (NDP) filed a No
Confidence Motion against the Unity
ON MONDAY, JANUARY 29TH 2018, the Labour (ULP) government. The motion
new Minister of Finance, Camillo highlights a number of social and
Gonsalves, made his maiden economic problems that are affecting
the people of St. Vincent and the deducted from its six thousand (6000)
presentation in Parliament, when he state employees, from the period
presented the 2018 Estimates of IV and Teacher V are paid, to fund Grenadines. The debate will bring to the
expenditure and revenue. Truly, it was an fore the myriads of problems that April, 2013 to August 2014. In
some of the new Graduate Teachers addition, the government failed to pay
excellent presentation by the young that were appointed; and confront Vincentians and heighten the
Minister of Finance, as he took the political consciousness of our people. to the NIS its 5.5% which it is
b) Trading-off lower grade teaching obligated to pay. What a disgrace!
House through the various aspects of positions, such as Teacher I and II The following is the No Confidence
the Estimates, and clearly outlined the Motion: Then to make matters worse, the
that were vacant, for the additional Minister of Finance brought a
developmental strategies of the ULP Graduate Teacher positions. WHEREAS the Government of
administration, and how the needs of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has resolution to parliament where the
3) All temporary clerks, a total of government borrowed $15. million
the country will be met over the next sixty-four (64), previously paid by the been failing the people miserably in
twelve months. providing a satisfactory quality of life; from the NIS to pay the NIS.
Service Commission vote, have been We have also had the issue of
Camillo Gonsalves presented a confirmed as Junior Clerks and their AND WHEREAS the priorities of
picture of the country, buffeted by the the Government in its use of accountability; where the ULP regime
salaries have been allocated to the has failed to present to the parliament
global economic winds, affected by the various Ministries and Departments taxpayers’ money have produced
many elements of climate change, but totally inadequate health services and audited financial statement of the
where they have been employed over International Airport Development
still keeping its head above water. In the years. basic maintenance of roads;
the words of Luzette King, the NDP This decision has not resulted in an AND WHEREAS the collapse of the Company. Dr. Friday, in his press
so-called activist, the country is increase in the number of public economy has deprived our youth of conference on 19th April, 2017 stated,
“weathering the storm, and holding servants and has had a minimal hope and employment opportunities; “This matter of accountability is
its own”. Now, as Camillo Gonsalves immediate impact on costs. AND WHEREAS a climate of fear fundamental and critical, as it goes
outlined in Parliament, we are not yet 4) Apart from the qualitative through intimidation at all levels of from the top to the bottom of the
out of the woods, but there is light at changes mentioned above, a total of Vincentian society, has become business of government; it crosses all
the end of the tunnel. ninety-eight (98) new positions have widespread due to the manifest abuse sectors and it connects to everything
The Estimates of Revenue and been created across the public service of the powers of the State and its else that happens in the business of
Expenditure total some EC$993.5 to enhance service delivery to the institutions, which are often employed ‘running the country’. So, the two
million, an increase of one point seven citizens of St. Vincent and the as weapons against citizens, to serve things we must understand about
percent over the approved figure for Grenadines. the agenda of Government officials, accountability is that it includes the
2017. The recurrent expenditure, The government will employ more their family members and associates; need to give “full account” of all funds
inclusive of amortization and sinking constables to meet the needs of the AND WHEREAS there has been a received and spent on behalf of the
fund contributions, is EC$776.8 Police Force, and more nurses, to breakdown in law and order as public and accountability is not
million, while the capital expenditure meet the requirements of the new demonstrated by the incidence of optional. As specified in the
is EC$216.6 million. medical institutions that will become rampant crime and the failure of the subsection of the law quoted above:
fully operational this year. various agencies of law enforcement to the work of accountability is legally
New Initiatives protect the more vulnerable members and constitutionally required; it must
The government will introduce four Compensation of Employees of society, including the elderly, be performed annually, and it is the
new initiatives in the 2018 estimates women and young persons; responsibility of the Minister of
which should be highlighted; as The 2018 budget for Compensation BE IT RESOLVED THAT this Finance to ensure that it is performed
follows: of Employees is EC$302.6 million, 1.6 Honourable House declares No annually.” To date, no audited
1) The Ministerial portfolio changes percent higher than the estimated Confidence in this Unity Labour Party financial statement of the
announced in 2017 are reflected in wage bill in 2017. There are two Government of Prime Minister Dr. International Airport Development
these Estimates. principal factors responsible for the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves. Company has been presented to
a) The Ministry of Economic movement of this item in this fiscal Since the ULP gained power in parliament.
Planning, Sustainable Development, year. These are: 2001, the standard of living for most Moreover, the ULP administration
etc is now subsumed under the 1. The cost associated with the new Vincentians has changed drastically. has been hit with scandal after
Ministry of Finance, Economic positions mentioned above; and All of the productive sectors have been scandal. For instance, a former
Planning, Sustainable Development 2. The automatic salary increments negatively affected. We have seen a chairman of the then National
and Information Technology. paid each year to public servants significant decline in the agricultural Commercial Bank (NCB) was involved
b) The portfolios of Labour and Forty-eight cents of every revenue sector; moreso the demise of the in a questionable banking transaction
Industry have been transferred to the dollar collected in 2018 will be spent banana industry. In its first year in at the said bank. A senior official at
Ministry of Agriculture, Rural on the compensation of public service power, the ULP administration the Ministry of Tourism was involved
Transformation, Forestry, Fisheries, employees. This is significant. As a dismantled the Banana Growers with a company that was formed to
Industry and Labour. Government, the ULP administration Association, took full control of it, and market and promote tourism in this
c) The portfolio of Information now has consistently implemented subsequently removed the credit country. In the Ministry of
falls under the Ministry of Education, measures to improve the material system from the farmers. The Agriculture, under the Agriculture
National Reconciliation and condition of all workers, including government then failed to incorporate Diversification project, a microphone
Information. A new programme called public servants. In 2018, all must the established banana facilities cable was imported at a cost of US
Public Information Services was commit to lifting their game. While overseas to expand the national
established for this portfolio. The API $12.14, ($EC32.73) and was sold to
there are generally excellent diversification efforts, creating severe the ministry for EC$1499.76,
and subvention to NBC are performers within the ranks of the hardship for the farmers in the
consolidated under this programme. (US$555.46). The recall of Deputy
public service, there is still much process. The end result: most farmers Consul General, Edson Agustus, from
d) The responsibility for Postal room for improvement. abandoned their farms and began to
Services has been transferred to the the Consulate in New York; the Sehon
It is your individual and collective seek employment elsewhere, mainly Marshall allegation of domestic abuse,
Ministry of Transport, Works, Local responsibility to raise the level of as security guards. Indeed, the hard-
Government and Postal Services; and the ongoing scandal involving
productivity within the public service working farmers have felt the full Camillo Gonsalves.
2) Under the Ministry of Education, to provide value to the citizens for the weight of the ULP government.
budgetary provisions have been made money they pay you. Furthermore, a sense of
to pay a total of 103 Graduate Over the years, Vincentians have lawlessness pervades the land. The
teachers who have been appointed been raising concerns about the
Pensions management of National Insurance country appears to be ungovernable.
across the Primary and Secondary The amount of $60.0 million has We have over the years seen a steady
levels, with effect from January 1st Service (NIS) by the ULP regime.
been budgeted to meet the payment of Various state agencies, such as increase in the number of homicides
2018. It must be noted that the Pensions in 2018. The figure in the country, to the extent that
implementation of this initiative did National Properties, International
represents a 7.6 percent or $4.4 Airport Development Company and forty-two (42) homicides were
not result in an increase in the million increase over the $56.0 million
number of teachers on the the National Lotteries have borrowed recorded in 2017, a record-breaking
provided in the 2017 Estimates for hundreds of millions of dollars from
establishment or placed an undue Pensions. This rate of increase year. Also, the rising incidence of
burden on the budget. In fact, the the NIS. And the bad investment by attacks carried out against yachtsmen
outpaces the rate of growth in the government of NIS funds of $62
total number of teachers within the budgeted Current Expenditure for and the continuing incidence of
system declined marginally by million into the failed British
2018 by 500 basis points. It is American Insurance and CLICO praedial larceny have had serious
twenty-two (22), a mere 1.2 percent. indisputable that this matter of implications on our tourism and
Similarly, the estimated cost to the investment. Then there was the
pensions must be tackled and placed sudden drop in the NIS profit from agricultural sectors.
consolidated fund for this measure on a sustainable footing. If we do not, The time has come for the ULP to
inclusive of increments for all $27 million in 2008 to $5.5 million in
it will remain a significant threat to 2010. Probably, the most disturbing go. They do not have the moral
teachers is $1.5 million. This was the future stability of the public
achieved by doing the following: news as it relates to the NIS was the authority to govern St. Vincent and
finances. More will be said on this disclosure by the Honourable Arnhim
a) Utilising the savings from subject, including possible options for Grenadines. We can do better. The
existing budgetary provisions at the reform, in the 2018 budget address. Eustace, that the ULP regime was not NDP will make St. Vincent and the
Grades F and E level, where Teacher paying to the NIS contributions Grenadines work for all of us.You can also read
