WEST ST.GEORGE TAKES KARAOKE TITLE...

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY CELEBRATED ITS 7TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MARCH 28TH 2001 ELECTION VICTORY IN GRAND STYLE AT RABACCA ON SATURDAY 29TH WITH OVER 25000 OF ITS SUPPORTERS AND WELL WISHERS PARTYING STRAIGHT INTO THE WEE HOURS OF SUNDAY MORNING.

APART FROM EXCELLENT SPEECHES BY MEMBERS OF THE PLATFORM INCLUDING THE POLITICAL LEADER DR THE HONOURABLE RALPH GONSALVES THE CROWD WARMED TO THE FINALS OF THE ULP KARAOKE COMPETITION IN WHICH ALL CONSTITUIENCIES EXCEPT NORTHERN GRENADINES PARTICIPATED.

TIME CONSTRAINTS DID NOT ALLOW FOR FULL PRESENTATION OF THE 2ND ROUND AND JUDGING WAS DONE ON THE PERFORMANCES OF THE 1ST ROUND ONLY WITH WEST ST GEORGE REPRESENTED BY SADIE (MISHCA) HUNTE WINNING THE COMPETITION.

EAST KINGSTOWN WITH MARVO MORGAN WAS SECOND, EAST ST GEORGE’S ALLAN “INDIAN” HILLOCKS WAS THIRD, WITH CENTRAL KINGSTOWN REPRESENTED BY VIVI SOUL AND SOUTHERN GRENADINES REPRESENTED BY BRIAN “SHAZOU” CLOUDEN COMING IN FOURTH AND FIFTH RESPECTIVELY.

THE UNITY LABOUR PARTY STARTED THE CONSTITUENCY KARAOKE IN SOUTH LEEWARD IN AUGUST LAST YEAR AND ENDED IN WEST ST GEORGE ON MARCH 22ND THIS YEAR. THOUSANDS OF PERSONS OVER THIS PERIOD ATTENDED THESE EVENTS AND THE RABACCA FINALS WAS A FITTING TRIBUTE TO THE PARTY FOR ORGANISING SUCH A COMPETITION.

THE GENERAL SECRETARY OF THE PARTY JULIAN FRANCIS HAS INFORMED STAR RADIO THAT KARAOKE WILL CONTINUE TO BE A MAIN STAY OF ITS PUBLIC RELATIONS PROGRAMME AND WILL CONTINUE AT THE PARTY HEADQUARTERS THIS FRIDAY EVENING AND GOING BACK INTO THE CONSTITUENCIES FROM FRIDAY APRIL 18TH.

ULP HOLDS MASSIVE RALLY...

A crowd estimated to be well over 25,000 turned up at Rabbaca last Saturday evening to be part of the governing Unity Labour Party’s celebrations, which were held to commemorate the Party’s seventh year in office.

The large gathering witnessed the final of the ULP Karaoke and heard addresses from a number of speakers, such as Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker; the first Leader of the ULP Sir Vincent Beaches, who has retired from active politics, Minister of Education Girlyn Miguel, Minister of Agriculture Montgomery Daniel and Min of Information Selmon Walters.

On March 28th 2001, the ULP romped home to a 12-3 landslide victory over the then governing New Democratic Party and repeated the feat in the December 7th general elections in 2005.

DR. RALPH GONSALVES -BONDED TO THE ULP...

Leader of the Unity Labour Party, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, said he is bonded forever to the ULP. Speaking to thousands of party supporters at a celebration rally last Saturday night at Rabbaca, Dr Gonsalves said he was happy with the support given to him by the party followers, stating he was part of them and they were part of him.

Dr Gonsalves said for the past 40 years he has given himself to the people of the region and St Vincent and the Grenadines, and vowed he will not stop now. Dr Gonsalves told his party faithfuls, he will not allow the party enemies to trample on them, neither will he allow them to triumph, stating with their help and that of Almighty God, he and his ULP will win and will vanquish the party enemies.

SIR VINCENT CALLS ON OPPOSITION TO VACATE PARLIAMENTARY SEATS....

Former ULP Leader, Sir Vincent Beache is calling on the opposition members of parliament to vacate their parliamentary positions, if they are not prepared to sit in parliament.

Last week Thursday, the opposition members stayed away from parliament for yet another sitting, stating they were protesting Dr Gonsalves’ decision not to step down over allegations made against him.

Sir Vincent said the opposition members were elected as parliamentarians and they should be in parliament, and said the NDP will not win the next general elections, constitutionally due in 2010 or 2011.

TOWN HALL MEETING FOR CANOUAN

Prime Minister Dr Hon Ralph Gonsalves will be in Canouan tomorrow evening, for a Town Hall meeting at the Canouan Primary School.

Minister of Housing Senator Julian Francis, the head of the Grenadines Directorate, Edwin Snagg and the Prime Minister’s Press Secretary, Hans King, wil also be at the meeting.

Prime Minister Gonsalves will use the occasion to outline government’s economic development plan for the Grenadine island and to listen to critical issues raised by the residents of Canouan, in relation to development matters.

SIR LOUIS - ULP GOVERNMENT PROUD OF ITS RECORD...

Deputy Prime Minister, Sir Louis Straker, said the ULP government is proud of its record over the past seven years.

Addressing thousands of party supporters at Rabacca last Saturday, Sir Louis said while the opposition NDP did not want to be reminded of its 17 years in office, the ULP was standing proud on its achievements over the last seven years.

Sir Louis said the ULP government could show to the world that it is a government that means progress.

MINISTER DANIEL RE-ELECTED AS WIBDECO CHAIRMAN...

Minister of Agriculture, Montgomery Daniel, was re-elected as Chairman of the Windward Islands Banana Development and Exporting Company Limited, WIBDECO, for the third consecutive term.

An agriculturist by profession, Minister Daniel has served the banana industry and the agriculture sector of St Vincent in different capacities and has brought to WIBDECO a wealth of experience in the agricultural business in which the company is involved.

MP FOR MARRIAQUA ASKS ULP SUPPORTERS TO BELIEVE IN THE TEAM...

ULP Member of Parliament for the constituency of Marriaqua, Girlyn Migiuel, is asking supporters of the party to believe in the team they elected in 2001 and again in 2005, to run the affairs of the country.

Speaking at a massive ULP celebration rally at Rabbaca last Saturday, the Marriaqua MP told the crowd of over 25,000, that the team they elected was working hard and they want to continue to work on their behalf.

Miguel asked her listeners to remember the team in their prayers and to do the things that will make the Party proud, as the Party was now starting the first day of the seventh year in office, stating it is going to be hard, if they do not work together as a team.

COMPTROLLER WARNS TAX DEFAULTERS.

Comptroller of Inland Revenue, Kelvin Pompey says defaulters will be charged a late fee of $20.00 each month their income tax returns are not filed and they will also be faced with a levy, if they are in arrears.

Pompey also stated that there are a number of persons who provided services, but do not pay any income taxes and says they will be asked to make arrangements with the department to have this matter regularised.

March 28, 2008 Edition

ULP READY FOR RABACCA 7TH YEAR RALLY...

Members, supporters and well wishers of the governing Unity Labour Party, ULP, are ready and organized for tomorrow's massive celebration rally of the ULP's 7th year in Government at Rabbaca, which will include the grand ULP constituency karaoke finals, speeches by the Political Leader Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and other leaders of the party, as well as entertainment from HS Phaktor, Bomani, Shonnelle and more.

Tomorrow also marks the first anniversary of the opening of the Rabacca Bridge. Meanwhile Senator Julian Francis, who is well known as the master planner and organizer of political rallys and other events, this evening confirmed that he and his team are putting together the final touches for the venue, which should be completed by late tonight.

The rally starts at 6:00pm, and will be broadcast live on Star FM.

TOTAL DISRESPECT SAYS SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE...

Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hendrick Alexander, says it was total disrespect on the part of members of the opposition New Democratic Party the way he was informed of their no-show in parliament yesterday.

Speaker Alexander said he was informed by way of a fax letter, while parliament was in progress, that the members of the opposition would not be attending parliament. In a letter to the Speaker, opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace says the opposition members were staying away as a mark of protest, since Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves was not adhering to his call to vacate his office.

Dr Gonsalves last week issued a challenge to Eustace for both of them to vacate their seat in parliament and run in two bye-elections, but Eustace has failed to accept such a challenge.

MINISTER BAPTISTE ANNOUNCES PLAN FOR STEEL BAND FACTORY

Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste says plans are on the way for a steel band factory to be built here. In her contribution to the pan against crime motion in parliament yesterday, Minister Baptiste said the demands for the steel pan is great and producers in Trinidad cannot cope, which will enable this country to established a pan factory. According to Baptiste, a study is being conducted to look at the establishment of a pan factory here.

SENATOR MARKS SUPPORTS PAN AGAINST CRIME MOTION

Senator Ronald Marks says the issue of crime is a complex one and there is no one solution, neither is there a single cause. Speaking in support of the Pan against crime motion yesterday in parliament, Senator Marks says new ways must be found to combat the scourge of crime, which is affecting all countries in the region.

The Senator pointed out that many of the crimes are directly linked to the drug trade, and the rise in crimes comes at a time when there is an increase in the trafficking of drugs going through the region.

Senator Ronald Marks made his last contribution in parliament yesterday as a Senator, but Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves hinted he may return to the House of Assembly as an elected member.

Senator Marks will vacate his senatorial position to make way for lawyer Saboto Caesar, who will be sworn in next week.

In making the announcement in parliament yesterday, Dr Gonsalves said his governing Unity Labour Party, the ULP, has always indicated a rotation of its senators, stating Marks had served the parliament with distinction.

Caesar, a former National Scholar, will be appointed as a Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Housing, Informal Human Settlements, Lands and Surveys, Physical Planning and Local Government, which is headed by Senator Julian Francis.

PM ANNOUNCES CET EXEMPTIONS

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves yesterday announced in parliament the Common External Tariff, the CET, on a number of food items will be removed or cut in half.

The announcement came as government tries to ease the burden on consumers, as the price of imported food here and in the region, continues to rise.

The government has submitted to CARICOM list of commodities on which the CET will be reduced or removed, as soon as all the legal processes are satisfied, regionally and nationally. Some 20 food items such as baby formula, beef, cheese, white sugar, tuna, sardine and cornflakes will be affected and should see a reduction in price soon.

SEN FORDE TABLES MOTION ON PAN AGAINST CRIME

Government Senator Rochelle Forde yesterday tabled a private members motion in parliament on the pan against crime initiative. In presenting the motion, Forde said the initiative is targeting young people to get involve in the playing of the steel pan, but it is something everyone can get involve with, since fighting crime is everybody’s business.

The motion was seconded by Senator Ronald Marks, who will be leaving parliament to give way for Saboto Caesar. Caesar will be takeup duties as a Senator as of April 2nd and has been named as a Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Housing, Informal Human Settlements, Lands and Surveys, Physical Planning and Local Government, which is headed by Senator Julian Francis.

$2.5M FOR PENSIONERS

Some $2.5 million from the Consolidated Fund have been made available for the balance of the year, to help persons on monthly public assistance, non-contributory old-age pensioners at the National Insurance Services, all pensioners at the NIS who are paid $75.00 or less weekly and all persons who receive invalidity benefits at the NIS.

This was announced by Prime Minister Dr Gonsalves yesterday in parliament, as he announced financial measures as one way of helping to cushion the rise in food prices, affecting the nation’s consumers, especially the poor.

CARNIVAL NEWS

The First Caribbean Bank-We FM-Singer Lynx will launch its 2008 mas presentation, Signs and Wonders at the Bay View Car Park this Sunday.

Lynx has been in the mas business for the past four years and will take nine Ossie Constance designs to the Victoria Park, in the hope of capturing the coveted Band of the Year title.

So far, Blondie Bird and Friends, High Voltage, My Imagination, Owen Ralph and the Professionals and Nelson Bloc have publicly displayed their 2008 presentations for Vincy Mas.

The Ah-drenalin Mas Camp will launch its 2008 presentation, Ahrora Borealis, this evening at Heritage Square.

The presentation will have eight designs, which were done by Lisa Cordice and Jeremy Payne, two second-year students at the Community College, and veteran mas designer, Edison ‘Sheggy’ John. The band is led by Errol ‘Monty’ Fraser and Osel Morris.

27.3.08

PM ANNOUNCES PARLIAMENTARY & MINISTERIAL CHANGES

Prime Minister Dr. The Honourable Ralph E. Gonsalves announced the following parliamentary changes and reassignment of ministerial portfolios in today’s sitting of parliament as follows:

1. Senator Ronald Marks will demit his senate seat voluntarily on March 31, 2008.
   
   
2. Mr. Saboto Caesar will be appointed as Senator with effect from April 2nd, 2008.
   
   

As of April 2nd, 2008 there will be portfolio assignments as follows:-

(a) Mr. Saboto Caesar will be appointed as Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Housing, Lands, and Physical Planning with especial responsibility for Housing and Lands.

(b) The Hon. Senator Julian Francis will assume responsibility for Local Government, including the Kingstown Board. Given certain imminent plans of the Government, this reallocation will be a better fit with Housing and Physical Planning.

(c) The Hon. Mike Browne will assume responsibility for the portfolios of Youth and Sports at the Ministry of Social Development and National Mobilisation.

(d) Given the growing economic importance of Tourism, this will remain a stand alone ministerial portfolio to which the Hon. Glen Beache will concentrate all his energies.

CET TARIFF

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is expected this morning to announced in parliament the full list of items that are to be exempted from the Common External Tariff.

Earlier this month, CARICOM Heads took the decision to remove the CET from a number of goods entering the region to help in the reduction of the high cost of food products. Dr Gonsalves is expected to have more goods exempted, than want was recommended by CARICOM.

COMPTROLLER REMINDS OF INCOME TAX RETURN DEADLINE

Comptroller of Inland Revenue, Kelvin Pompey, says some business houses are deducting income tax from their employees but are not passing over the PAYE to the Inland Revenue Department.

Pompey says this is an illegal act and the department will be vigorously pursuing persons who are guilty of the offense.

Pompey also disclosed his department will be asking the offices of the Attorney General and the Director of Public Prosecutions to help in the collection of income tax, from a number of professionals and self employed individuals, who are earning an income but are not filing any income tax return.

The deadline for filing income tax return is next Monday March 31 and a fine of $20.00 will be levied each month persons do not file their return on time.

COMMISSION ADDRESS RSS TRAINING COURSE

Commissioner of Police Keith Miller is encouraging police officers to fight all angles of criminality and noted that there is a common trend of crime in the region.

In declaring the Regional Security Service, the RSS, course open, Commissioner Miller reminded the police officers that they have the mandate to maintain the Law in the countries which they serve.

Cabinet Secretary Bernard Morgan, in delivering the feature address, encouraged the police officers to do everything with integrity, common sense and sound judgment.

Members of the RSS from the OECS and Barbados are here for the second phase of a one-month jungle-training course, which is taking place in Hermitage Forest. The training session opened here last Tuesday at the Old Montrose Police Station.

ULP 7TH YEAR RALLY

Members of the various constituency councils of the governing Unity Labour Party, the ULP, are busy organizing for this Saturday's celebration rally at Rabacca.

The ULP will this Saturday host a massive rally to celebrate its seventh year in office and to bring its constituents up to date of the progress the country has made under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves.

On March 28th 2001, the ULP gained a 12-3 landslide victory over the then governing New Democratic Party and repeated the same feat in the December 7th 2001 general elections.

The progress of the Argyle International airport will one of the topics highlighted by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves at Saturday?s celebration rally.

NIPI SUPPORTS FASHION DESIGNERS

The National Investment Promotions Inc., NIPI, in aneffort to ensure that the fashion industry in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is marketed regionally as well as internationally, will sponsor the attendance of this country's nominees to the upcoming Caribbean Fashion Awards.

Three of this country's fashion designers in former Miss SVG winner, Kimron Baptiste, along with Kimya Glasgow and Debbie Barbour have been nominated for awards for the first ever Caribbean Fashion awards to be held in Trinidad early next month.

NIPI hopes the event will stimulate the establishment of economic, cultural and other linkages between countries, while celebrating regional creative diversity and achievement in a global industry that is estimated at US$35 billion annual.

PASTOR CALLS FOR DAY OF PRAYER

A female Pastor is calling on all Christians to come together and pray for the nation. The call has come from Pastor Sylma Mc Kenzie, head of the Redemption Christian Fellowship Church at Frenches.

Pastor Mc Kenzie said she has set aside Saturday March 29, as a day of Prayer and intercession for the nation.

She also noted that the spiritual healing that is needed in St Vincent and the Grenadines can only come when Christians get together and pray. Pastor Mc Kenzie said that most of the problems facing the nation is one of a spiritual warfare.

26.3.08

CET TARIFF

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is expected to announce in Parliament tomorrow a number of items that will no longer attract the Common External Tariff, the CET.

Earlier this month, CARICOM Heads made a decision to remove the CET from a number of items, to help in the reduction of rising food prices in the region. Dr Gonsalves is expected to go further than CARICOM'S recommendations and remove the CET from a number of goods imported from outside the region.

GARIFUNA PILGRIMAGE AT BALLICEAU

Minister of Culture, Rene Baptiste will lead a delegation to the annual pilgrimage to Balliceaux this Saturday.

The delegation will consist of Garifuna representatives, personnel from the National Trust, various Heritage Clubs, he media and other persons of special interest.

The annual visit serves to remember the process of the exile. In 1797 at the end of the Second Garifuna War, the colonial powers rounded up the surviving members of the Garifuna and imprisoned them on Balliceaux, where many of them died under harsh conditions, before shipping them off to Rotan Island.

DANCE WORKSHOP

The Alliance Francaise, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, had three dancers from Martinique visit here to conduct dance workshops with primary and secondary school students.

The dancers are associated with the MD Company, a Hip Hop dance organisaton in Martinique and conducted dance sessions with almost 100 persons here.

MINISTRY OF NATIONAL MOBILATION REPORTS...

Minister of National Mobilization, Mike Browne, held a news briefing this morning to update the media on his recent trip to Guyana where he represented this country at a CARICOM’s Council for Human and Social Development.

According to Minister Browne, the meeting looked at ways to make the region more fit for the children of the Caribbean and approved a number of priorities. Minister Browne said some of these priorities include the adoption of a formal early childhood services for all countries and the lowering of the age of universal/compulsory education to four years, so as to ensure children receive at least one year of formal childhood education exposure, prior to entry into a primary school.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Mobilization, Rosita Snagg, said her ministry is seeking to have all street children off the streets of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Speaking at a news conference this morning, Snagg said a special meeting of CARICOM’s Council for Human and Social Development in Guyana addressed issues that are topical to this country.

The introduction of Universal Secondary Education here has reduced the number of children who live on the streets and Snagg says more will be done to ensure that this country is free of street children.

TAIWAN DONATES COMPUTERS TO NSPD

Taiwan Ambassador Jack Cheng today handed over a set of computers to Patricia Cumberbatch, President of the National Society of Persons with disabilities, the NSPD. The computer set was handed over as a token of Taiwan's continuous support for the Society's task to promote the public awareness of the disadvantaged people.

The Society is organising its School's Essay Competition for First Year Students of the Secondary Schools in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

25.3.08

SVG HOSTS RSS TRAINING

The second phase of training for the Regional Security System, the RSS, opened here this morning at the Old Montrose Police Training School.

RSS members from Antigua-Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia and host country St Vincent and the Grenadines are in attendance for the one-month training programme, which will see emphasis placed on the officers carrying out drills in the Hermitage Forest, as part of their jungle training.

Police commissioner Keith Miller has told members of the Regional Security Services, the RSS, that they have to be tough at all times in the carrying out of their duties.

Miller was speaking this morning at the opening of the second phase of the one-month RSS training for security officers from the OECS and Barbados. Miller reminded the officers that there is never a dull moment in the life of a police officer and asked them to take the training seriously.

Cabinet Secretary, Bernard Morgan is reminding officers attached to the Regional Security Service, the RSS, that security in St Vincent and the Grenadines and the rest of CARICOM is being given the highest priority by the authorities.

Delivering the feature address this morning at the opening of a one-month training programme for RSS members, at the Montrose Police Training School, Morgan said crime statistics in the region is worrying and that no country in the region is immune to crime. RSS officers from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean states and Barbados are here for the second phase of a training programme.

The programme here will specialize in jungle training, which will be done in the Hermitage forest.

ULP TO CELEBRATE 7TH YEAR AT RABACCA

Thousands of supporters of the Unity Labour Party, the ULP, are expected to converge at Rabacca this Saturday for a rally in celebration of the ULP’s seventh year in office.

The rally is also be used to celebrate the first anniversary of the Youremeni-Taiwan Friendship Bridge, which was built over the river to allow easy access to persons traveling north and south of the river.

On March 28th 2001, the ULP received a mandate from the people to govern this country, when it romped home in a 12-3 landslide victory over the then ruling New Democratic Party. The Party repeated the feat in the in the general elections of 2005.

POLICE INVESTIGATING WEEKEND DEATHS

Police are investigating the circumstances under which 21-year-old Marcia Quammie of Questelles met her death.

Reports indicate the mother of two was stabbed to death last Saturday and Randolph Lewis is now assisting the police in their investigations.

Police are also carrying out investigations into how one of this country’s cart men died last Sunday in Bequia.

According to reports, a 36-year-old man, who plies his trade as a Cart Man, jumped from a boat that was in the Bequia harbour and hit his head when he landed in the water. A post mortem examination is to be conducted today to determine the cause of death.

SVG SPARED BAD WEATHER

This country was spared the ravages of heavy swells that were expected to hit here and other Caribbean countries over the weekend.

Last week Wednesday, the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, issued a warning for persons to take precaution if they were to venture out to sea.

NEMO and the Meteorological were monitoring the weather forecast, which indicated significant wave height was expected over the Eastern Caribbean. Some other Caribbean countries did experienced heavy swells, with one death associated with the rough seas, reported in Barbados.

20.3.08

ANOTHER HOSPITAL BOMB THREAT

Just about two weeks after a female called the Milton Cato Hospital, stating a bomb was placed there, someone made a similar call yesterday, placing the police on high alert.

A partial evacuation of the premises was done, while the police conducted a search, which revealed no bomb was present.

Earlier this week, Commissioner of Police Keith Miller said investigations into the bomb threat of March 6 were almost in its final stages and evidence was pointing in a certain direction.

OPPOSITION SAYS NO TO CCJ

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has described as unfortunate, comments made by Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace, who indicates his New Democratic Party, will not support the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Speaking at a news conference yesterday, Dr Gonsalves said while he was in opposition he had reservations with the court, but just before he got into office, certain mechanisms were put in place, which he says has made the court insulated from political interference, more than any court anywhere in the world.

NEMO ADVISORY

Deputy Director of the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, Michelle Forbes is cautioning persons who are planning on going to the beaches to be very careful. She said persons should not venture out at sea if they do not have to.

NEMO yesterday issued a release, stating it was monitoring the weather forecast, which indicate significant wave height was expected over the Eastern Caribbean between Wednesday and today. Meanwhile, Meteorological Officer, Antonio Joyette, says no tsunami is expected in the area.

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19.3.08

PM GONSALVES CHALLANGES EUSTACE

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has thrown out a challenge to Opposition Leader, Arnhim Eustace. Dr Gonsalves is challenging the Opposition leader to resign his East Kingstown seat, and he will do the same, and they will both contest bye-elections. However, Dr Gonsalves says he will not spend more that six hours campaigning in his constituency and will use his energies in East Kingstown to unseat Eustace. Dr Gonsalves issued the challenge, following calls by Eustace and his NDP for Dr Gonsalves to vacate office, over sexual allegations made against him. It is unlikely Eustace will take up such a challenge.

LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM TO AFFECT SVG...

The National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, says it is closely monitoring weather forecasts, which indicate wave height is expected here today and tomorrow. A release from NEMO states a deep low pressure system centered over the North Atlantic is forecasted to generate large northerly swells over the sea, and has issued a warning for persons living in Colonarie, Sandy Bay, Gorse, Georgetown and the Grenadines to take the necessary precautions to protect life and property. NEMO states the deep low-pressure system could generate swells up to 16 feet or more in the coastal areas around St Vincent and the Grenadines. According to NEMO, a costal flood watch is in effect until Good Friday.

CDERA WEATHER ADVISORY

The Barbados based Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency, CDERA, today said that a deep low pressure system will begin affecting the islands of Barbados and the OECS from this afternoon.

The system is centered over the North Atlantic Ocean and threatens to generate large sea swells. CDERA says that large swells around ten to sixteen feet, could affect the coastal areas of these countries. The forecast is for significant sea wave height and action from this afternoon, into Friday.

Officials of the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, will be monitoring the situation.

DEATH THREAT INVESTIGATIONS

Police Commissioner Keith Miller this week said that his organisation will conduct vigorous investigations into certain threats issued here against the life of a police officer. Commissioner Miller made the comments at a media conference called to update the country on certain developments within the Police Force.

Miller said that his men are not taking the threat lightly, and that a thorough investigation will be carried out. He sent a strong message to criminal elements in the society, that the police force will be deterred by any threats. Miller added that his organization is dedicated to the maintenance of law and order in the state, and that no threat or threats will divert his officers and men from this duty.

KPS WINS SPELLING BEE

The Kingstown Preparatory School this morning won the Karib Cable spelling bee competition, which was held at the Methodist Church Hall.,br>
The two girls and one boy from Prep, walked away with the top prize of a computer lab valued at $10,000, and one year’s free Internet access from Karib Cable. The Calliaqua Anglican School placed second, while Langley Park Government School was third. Last year’s winner, the Troumaca Primary School did not make it in the first three.

COURT MATTER AGAINST LYNCH & BDS ADJOURNED...

A legal matter where Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is seeking damages from Elwardo ‘EG’ Lynch and the operators of BDS that run Nice Radio, has been adjourned until May 26th. Dr Gonsalves won a civil case he brought against Lynch and BDS, for defamatory remarks Lynch made on Nice Radio. A judge was to determine this morning how much money Lynch and BDS should pay Dr Gonsalves, but the matter has been adjourned.

FISHING INDUSTRY INTEGRAL TO SVG

Persons involved in the local fishing industry now have more knowledge about proper safety measures to use while at sea. This week, fisherfolk were involved in a training session which ran from yesterday and will conclude on Thursday. Chief Fisheries Officer, Raymond Ryan spoke of the importance of the industry to the economy of St Vincent and the Grenadines, noting that the fisheries sector is an important contributor to food security and poverty alleviation. The Chief Fisheries Officer stressed that fisheries development forms an integral part of the economic diversification policy of the government, stating government will continue to upgrade the skills of persons involved in the fishing industry.

KARIB CABLE NATIONAL PRIMARY SPELLING BEE

The final of the third annual Karib Cable National Primary schools spelling bee competition will take place at the Methodist Church Hall this morning. The new Prospect Primary, Lowmans Leeward -Anglican, Buccament Government, Barrouallie Government, Langley Park Government, Kingstown Preparatory and the Calliaqua Anglican School will be coming up against the defending champion, Troumaca Government. The winner will take home a computer lab valued at $10,000 and one year free Internet access from Karib Cable.

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES' VISIT TO THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY

KINGSTOWN, 18 MARCH 2008: – Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves returned yesterday from a six-day official visit to the Republic of Turkey. Prime Minister Gonsalves was the first CARICOM Prime Minister to make an official visit to the State. While in Turkey, Prime Minister Gonsalves held substantive talks with Turkish Prime Minister H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Interior Minister Mr. Besir Atalay, Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Mr. Köksal Toptan, Mayor of the Greater Izmir Municipality Aziz Kocaoglu, Deputy Governor of Izmir Mr. Fahri Aykiri, Mayor of Greater Istabul Kadir Topbas and Governor of Istanbul Mr. Muammer Güler.

Dr. Gonsalves also met with the Turkish Association of Tourism Investors, the President of the Association for Development of Trade with Latin America and the Caribbean, and officials from TAV Airport Management, which designed, built and operates a number of airports throughout Turkey, the Middle East and Africa.

Meetings with Prime Minister Erdogan

Prime Minister Gonsalves had a two-hour meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan, and later attended a “family dinner” with Prime Minister Erdogan and his wife Emine. Prime Minister Erdogan presented a long-term strategy for increased cooperation with St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the broader CARICOM region in the areas of Climate Change, Disaster Preparedness, Tourism, Small Business Development, Transportation Network Development, Scholarships, Technical Training and closer cooperation with the University of the West Indies.

Prime Minister Erdogan discussed the Republic of Turkey’s decision to establish a Latin America & Caribbean fund to support development in the region. He also recalled the Republic of Turkey’s previous contributions to the CARICOM Disaster Preparedness Fund, and agreed to explore contributing to the newly formed CARICOM Regional Development Fund. Prime Minister Erdogan also set out plans for holding the first Turkey-CARICOM Forum in Istanbul in 2008.

Prime Ministers Gonsalves and Erdogan held extensive discussions on the progress being made towards the construction of an International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Prime Minister Gonsalves extended an invitation to the Republic of Turkey to join St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ international partners in assisting with the completion of the International Airport project. Prime Minister Erdogan made a commitment to explore ways in which Turkey could offer support for the construction of the International Airport, either through the provision of construction materials, heavy-duty equipment, or financial and technical support.

Prime Minister Erdogan agreed that the historic nature of the first official visit by a CARICOM Head of Government visit should be commemorated with the introduction of additional scholarships for Vincentian students to pursue tertiary studies in the Republic of Turkey. Prime Minister Erdogan also indicated his willingness to offer additional 2008/2009 scholarships, subject to demand from Vincentian students. Further, the Republic of Turkey extended offers of assistance to Vincentian civil servants who wish to undertake training in foreign relations at the Turkish Foreign Relations Academy.

Prime Minister Erdogan also accepted H.E. Prime Minister Gonsalves’ proposal to appoint an Honorary Consul of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to Turkey, as a means of strengthening the bilateral ties between the two States. Finally, Prime Minister Gonsalves reiterated St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ pledge of support for the candidacies or the Republic of Turkey for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the period 2009-2010; and for the city of Izmir’s bid to host the World Expo in 2015 under the theme “New Routes to a Better World: Health for All.” H.E. Prime Minister Erdogan expressed his gratitude for St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ strong endorsement of these candidatures.

Cultural/Hisorical Visits

Prime Minister Gonsalves and his delegation took time to explore some of Turkey’s vast cultural and historical wealth. He visited the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, founder of the modern Turkish Republic. Dr. Gonsalves also prayed at the home of the Virgin Mary, who spent the last seven years of her life in the mountains surrounding Ephesus. He also toured the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, which date back to the first century B.C. Prime Minister Gonsalves also visited the Istanbul modern Art museum and other important cultural landmarks. Prime Minister Gonsalves’ official visit took him to the Ankara, the Turkish Capital, Izmir, candidate city for EXPO 2015, and Istanbul, Turkey’s most populous city.

Delegation

Prime Minister Gonsalves was accompanied on his official visit by his wife, Mrs. Eloise Gonsalves, H.E. Cenio E. Lewis, High Commissioner of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United Kingdom, H.E. Camillo M. Gonsalves, Permanent Representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to the United Nations, Tansal Akçayli, Honorary Counsul of the Republic of Turkey to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Inspector Christopher Benjamin, personal security to H.E. Prime Minister Gonsalves.

The Republic of Turkey

The Republic of Turkey is a secular, democratic State of 74 million people. It has a land area of 302,000 square miles, making it the 37th largest and 17th most populous state in the world. Turkey’s 2007 GDP of $645.5 billion makes it currently the 17th-largest economy in the world. Turkey’s trade with Latin America and the Caribbean exceeded $4.5 billion in 2007.

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March 18, 2008 Edition

AMBASSADOR DESIGNATE OF MEXICO VISITS

Ambassador Designate of Mexico to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, His Excellency Gerardo Lozano, is visiting St. Vincent to present his credentials and meet with Government and private sector representatives. Ambassador Lozano presented his credentials to His Excellency the Governor General, Sir Frederick Ballantyne, this morning. During his two-day visit he will meet with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Minister of Urban Development and Culture René Baptiste, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commerce and Trade, and the President of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce Jerry George.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic relations with Mexico in 1990 and has enjoyed good relations since then. The Government of Mexico has provided technical assistance in various sectors including education, training and physical infrastructural development.

POLICE THREATENED

A letter warning of a threat to the life of a police officer has been sent to Commissioner of Police Keith Miller. Addressing members of the media yesterday, Miller read from a letter, which he said was sent to him, indicating a threat to kill Sergeant Scott of the Drug Squad. Commissioner Miller said neither he nor the other members of the force will be intimidated by any threats and he was willing to place the membership of the Force in defence of Sergeant Scott’s protection. Commissioner Miller also had a word for persons involved in criminal activities who he asked to desist from such practices, since the full weight of the law will descend on them.

PM GONSALVES' TRIP TO TURKEY A SUCCESS

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has described his recent trip to Turkey as a successful one. Addressing members of the media this morning at Cabinet Room, Dr Gonsalves made it clear that the rip was for the overall benefit of the people of this country and chided those who felt he should not have made the trip. Dr Gonsalves said those with a narrow mentality, who only see leadership as the collection of taxes, cannot lead. Prime Minister Gonsalves said his government's foreign policy has allowed for more benefits for the citizens of this country.

HONOURARY CONSUL for REP OF TURKEY

This country is to appoint a Honorary Consul to the Republic of Turkey and at present, two persons are under consideration for the post. The appointment of a Honouary Consul to the Republic of Turkey was one of the positives, which came out of a recent visit to Turkey by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. Dr Gonsalves was in Turkey for an official four-day visit, which he describes as successful.

TURKISH INVESTORS TO VISIT SVG

A group of Turkish investors are expected to visit this country to identify investment projects and according to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, this is a vital to the development of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Dr Gonsalves recently returned from an official four-day visit to Turkey, after the Turkish government extended an invitation to him to make the trip.

HOSPITAL BOMB SCARE INVESTIGATIONS

Commissioner of Police Kith Miller says investigations into the bomb threat at t he Milton Cato Memorial Hospital is at a very crucial stage. Speaking to members of the media yesterday, Commissioner Miller said the elimination process of telephone calls to the hospital is almost completed and the investigation is leading into a particular direction. On Thursday March 6, a female called the hospital stating a bomb was placed there. This resulted in the evacuation of the patients and workers, along with other persons who were in the vicinity of the hospital.

PAN AGAINST CRIME

Commissioner of Police Keith Miller was the recipient of a clock in the shape of a steel pan, which was presented to him by General Manager of the General Employees Cooperative Credit Union, GECCU, Lennox Bowman, yesterday. In making the presentation, Bowman stated he was making the contribution to the Police Commissioner for the police role in the pan against crime, an initiative of Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. Bowman commended the police in their fight against crime and called on other institutions to get on board with the pan against crime programme.

PARK HILL MURDER

Police have confirmed that the death of Hinford Ryan, a retired Headteacher of Park Hill, was due to strangulation. Last week Friday, at about 11.55 p.m, some residents of Park Hill Ryan calling for help. The police were later summoned and found Ryan lying in a bed and appeared to be dead. He was later pronounced dead by the District Medical Officer. Police later picked up Alwyn Wilson of Park Hill and he is now assisting police in their investigations. Ryan’s death brings to five the number of homicides so far for the year.

FISHERIES WORKSHOP

The Fisheries sector has a critical role to play in the economic development of St.Vincent and the Grenadines. That’s the view of this country’s Chief Fisheries Officer, Raymond Ryan. Speaking at a maritime training workshop yesterday, Ryan said that fisheries as a component, is an important element in the national development of the state. Ryan feels that the implementation of the proposed fishing fleet expansion programme, will bring benefits to fishing community. Yesterday, some ten fishermen began a training workshop here, that would see them developing skills in a number of areas, including navigation and communications.

GECCU ENDORSES PAN AGAINST CRIME

Manger of the General Employees Credit Union, Lennox Bowman, has described the steel pan as an instrument of peace and is calling on young people here to get involve in the playing, tuning or building of the steel pan. Bowman also made it clear his organisation is in full support of the pan against crime initiative, which was conceptualized by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. Bowman's comments came yesterday, while presenting a clock in the shape of a steel pan to Commissioner of Police, Keith Miller. The GECCU Manager says his organisation has a membership of 25,000 who are subject to the negative effects of crime and any initiative to address crime must be given support in all areas.

VINCENTIAN HONOURED IN FCIB'S UNSUNG HEROES AWARDS

The work of Vincentian Yolande Stewart, runner-up in this year’s First Caribbean Bank’s Unsung Heroes was recognised when she and others were honoured at a ceremony in Barbados yesterday. Stewart and the other First Caribbean Bank Unsung heroes were rewarded for their community service, for silently contributing in extraordinary ways to make the lives of those in their communities a much better place. First Caribbean’s CEO, Charles Fink said whether we are in a season of economic plenty or scarcity, it seems that the underprivileged and disadvantaged will always be among us. He said the communities therefore need individuals with big hearts, energy and conviction who will respond to human needs, stating these are some of the qualities that is evident in the Unsung Heroes whom the bank honour and salute each year.


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March 17, 2008

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES RETURNS FROM TURKEY

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is expected to return to the state this evening, from a five day state visit to the Republic of Turkey. He headed a four member including his wife, Eloise, the ambassador to the United Nations, Camillo Gonsalves and the High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Cenior Lewis. While in Turkey the Prime Minister and his delegation held talks with the president and the prime minister of that republic, as well as agencies responsible for tourism and investment. Dr. Gonsalves is expected to host a media conference tomorrow, to brief Vincentians about the state visit to Turkey Star Radio will carry that media conference live.

FISHERIES WORKSHOP

Local fisher-folk will have an opportunity to upgrade their skills and competencies at a four-day workshop to be hosted by the fisheries division next week. According to a release from the division, the workshop will be held from March 17th to 20th at the fisheries conference room from 8:30 AM. Some 10 fishermen will be involved in the training program, which will focus on a number of issues involved in basic maritime training. Coordinator of the program Bernard Soleyn says the workshop will seek to prepare local fisher-folk for the reception of the larger fishing vessels that are expected in the fishing fleet expansion programme. The training sessions will cover a number of areas including safety at sea, seamanship, ship radio communication, boat handling and navigation. They will be delivered through a series of indoor lectures followed by practical sessions at sea. The resources persons are fisheries Officer, Hyrone Johnson and Bernard Soleyn. The training session will be officially opened at 8:30 am with a short ceremony addressed by Chief Fisheries Officer Raymond Ryan.

EASTER ACTIVITIES

Two islands in the Grenadines will be the centre of attraction over the next two weeks. The island of Bequia will host it’s 27th annual Easter Regatta from this Thursday March 20th to the 24th. Organisers of the regatta say that plans are in place for the event, and that a large contingent of visitors from the mainland and several Caribbean countries, are expected to travel to Port Elizabeth for the event. Not to be outdone, the island of Union Island began holding it’s Easterval activities from yesterday March 16th to the 24th. Easterval, which is 31 years old, will be held under the theme “Appreciate, participate together, lets elevate Easterval 2008”.

HOMECOMING 2009

A number of stakeholders here were involved in a planning exercise last week in relation to Homecoming 2009, the government strategy to have as many Vincentians who are abroad, return home for the 30th anniversary of independence. The stakeholders represented community groups, the private sector, and several government ministries including those responsible for Culture, Education, Tourism and Rural Transformation.

The whole exercise is being driven by the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit, headed by Ellsworth John, the former ambassador to the United States and the OAS. The planning meeting has already decided to hold a number of community consultations, to brief community groups about Homecoming 2009, and to discuss their participation in this exercise.

Homecoming 2009 is expected to bring a number of benefits to St.Vincent and the Grenadines. It will create an opportunity for Vincentians abroad to participate further in discussions aimed at creating new ideas and strategies to move the country forward. There will also be opportunities for investment, cultural development and general social interaction. Already plans are being developed for a slogan competition at the national level. Over the next two months, there will be a series of meetings aimed at finalizing the programme for Homecoming 2009, along with an operational plan and a marketing strategy.

OSNEL ANTOINE, MISS UNITY YOUTH

Hundred of persons turned out at the Aquatic Club on Friday last to witness the Miss Unity Youths Beauty Pageant. Osnel Antoine from Central Leeward, sponsored by Franco Construction Company Limited, created history by being the first ever winner of the Miss Unity Youth title. She also won the Best Interview, Best Talent and Miss Photogenic titles. Lindy Billingy of South Leeward, sponsored by S. G. De Freitas & Co Ltd, took the 1st runner up position, along with Best Evening Wear and the People's Choice awards. Shonelle Nanton Miss Aquatic Club representing South Windward, placed 2nd runner up, with her sister Isabelle Clouden, Miss Ferdie's Footsteps of the Southern Grenadines, following as 3rd runner up and also winning Best Sportswear category.

Patrons were thrilled with the performances of the nine contestants who appeared. Unfortunately the tenth contestant, La Toya Lewis who was hospitalized the day prior to the show, was still recuperating, and was therefore unable to compete on the night. She however was adjudged Miss Congeniality by her fellow contestants. Bomani the guest artiste entertained the audience with several of his songs and also crowned the Queen. Following the show, patrons stayed on into the early morning for the dance. Acting Prime Minister Hon Mike Browne, Hon Girlyn Miguel, Hon Clayton Burgin, Senator Julian Francis, and Leroy Creese, distributed bouquets and gifts to the winners and all other contestants. The pageant was organized by the Unity Youths, the youth arm of the Unity Labour Party.

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March 13, 2008

Justice Gertel Thom dismisses application for judicial review - "there were no arguable grounds for judicial review"... CLICK here for full judgement

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES IN TURKEY .

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has begun his five day official visit to the Republic of Turkey today, with a wreath laying ceremony at the tomb of Ataturk, the founder of the modern day republic. Later today he will hold talks with the Prime Minister of Turkey Recep Erdogan, and attend a lunch with the president of that country, Abdullah Gul. Tomorrow he will visit the ancient city of Ephesus, and then on Saturday he will hold talks with the managers of the Turkish Tourism Investors Association. Prime Minister Gonsalves will also meet with the president of the Association for the Promotion of Trade with Latin America and the Caribbean. He is expected to leave the Republic of Turkey on Sunday.

NATIONAL HEROES DAY .

A wreath laying ceremony is scheduled for the obelisk at Dorsetshire Hill, tomorrow, to mark National Heroes Day. Friday’s ceremony will hear addresses from the acting Prime Minister Mike Browne, and the Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste. The National Youth Council, the Garifuna Heritage Foundation and the World Garifuna Council,will bring solidarity messages, and there will be several cultural performances. Activities will also be held in Fancy, Sandy Bay, Evesham and Union Island, to mark the day. National Heroes Day is public holiday day. The day is being observed here as part of National Heroes and Heritage Month, under the theme Preserving our Heritage with Pride.

COPYRIGHT WORKSHOP

The issue of copyright and it’s associated rights will be highlighted here this week end. Several Vincentian artistes, composers, singers, musicians and authors will attend a workshop on Saturday, to look at this issue. The workshop will be convened at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, and is being organised by a regional body called Caribbean Copyright link. It will begin at 9am. The organizers of the workshop have said that following this, there will be a drive to form a copyright society in St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

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LOCAL NEWS

March 12, 2008

NEWS REPORTER VERBALLY ASSAULTED .

The editor of the Searchlight Newspaper, Clare Keizer, has described an incident yesterday in which one of her reporters was verbally assaulted by a member of the public, as being reprehensible. Keizer identified the reporter as Viclene Mathews, a junior member of her staff. She said that the incident was even more worrying, as the member of the public who was involved is a leading human rights figure in the state. Miss Keizer says that this is one of problems her reporters face almost on a daily basis, in the performance of their duties. She called for greater public awareness on the rights of reporters and photographers, so that this problem will be eliminated.

ASTAPHAN COMMENTS .

Queen’s Counsel Anthony Astaphan, the lawyer who represented the Attorney General in the matter brought by Police Constable Michelle Andrews, against the Director of Public Prosecutions, Colin Williams, has said that the lawyers for the police constable are abusing the process of the law, to score cheap political points. Astaphan was at the time being interviewed live on WE FM, following the ruling by Justice Thom yesterday. The Queen’s Counsel said that when the politics and emotions were removed from the matter, the case put forward by the lawyers, cold not meet the lowest threshold of the law. Astaphan said that there was a major difference between noise making and grand standing, and the ability to make a case in the court. Yesterday Justice Thom ruled that the she found “no arguable grounds for a review” in relation to the matter.

OTTLEY HALL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY .

The Court of Appeal has lifted a restraint against the Ottley Hall Inquiry, to allow it to proceed. This follows a matter brought by the former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell last year, against the Commission. This means that the Inquiry can continue to meet and call witnesses to their hearing. However, the former Prime Minister Sir James Mitchell, will not be called by the Commission, until the Court of Appeal has ruled on his application. When the ULP administration assumed office following the 2001 general elections, it commissioned a board of inquiry into the Ottley Hall Shipyard and Marina, to determine if there was any wrongdoing at this project, and who was culpable.

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LOCAL NEWS

March 11, 2008

JUDGE RULES - NO ARGUABLE GROUNDS FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW… .

That’s the word from Justice Gretel Thom, as she dismissed an application made by the lawyers representing Police Constable Michelle Andrews, for leave to appeal for judicial review, following a decision made by the Director of Public Prosecutions Colin Williams. Last month the DPP terminated a private criminal case brought against Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves by the police constable in relation to alleged sexual misconduct. At that time the DPP said that there was no evidence to support the charge.

Justice Thom also ruled that there was to be no order for costs. The full ruling by the judge will be made available to the lawyers at 3pm today. Following the ruling, Emery Robertson, one of the lawyers for the police constable, indicated to the court that there was an intention to appeal the ruling. Justice Thom then stated that any such appeal should be made in writing. However, another lawyer for the police constable has said that the team will have to meet, before any decision can be made.

BLUES & RHYTHM FEST

More top flight international artistes and a bigger venue. That is the promise from the Minister responsible for Tourism, Glen Beache, following the 2008 Blues and Rhythm Festival on the week end. Minister Beache said that his ministry will continue to make vigorous efforts to attract leading artistes for the festival. This year the frontline artistes were Freddy Jackson, Shaggy, Regina Belle and David Rudder. Minister Beache also hinted that the festival could see a move to a new location. An enthusiastic crowd, estimated to be the largest in the history of the festival, attended the event at the Emerald Valley Resort on Saturday. Already it has been suggested that the renovated Arnos Vale Sporting Complex, could be the home for the 2009 event.

StarFM

Less than two weeks after it was launch, the radio station called Star FM is making its services available to persons in the Diaspora. Already the station, the first to be owned and operated by a political party in St.Vincent and the Grenadines, has developed a website for interested persons. And that is not all. The website, starfm983.com, now offers live streaming of its daily programming, for use by persons in the state, as well as Vincentians and other interested persons in the Diaspora. In addition the website is offering users the opportunity to email their obituaries and birthday greetings, for broadcast on Star Fm. Star Radio was launched last month under the theme, “Shining thru just for you”. The station can be heard on two frequencies, 98.3 and 104.7

EARTH DAY

A number of schools in the Kingstown area will be involved a march and rally next month, to mark International Earth Day, celebrated on April 22nd.The students will march through the streets of Kingstown and will then head to Victoria Park for the rally. The whole affair is being organized by the Environmental Division in the Ministry of Health.According to Selwyn Masters an Environmental Officer, the march and rally will use entertainment to promote vital information on the preservation of the environment.Masters said that the event will also be used to launch a schools programme aimed at developing better solid waste management habits among young people.

March 10, 2008

COURT RULING

High Court Judge, Gretel Thom, will rule tomorrow on an application for leave to seek a judicial review, brought by lawyers representing Police Constable Michelle Andrews. The team of lawyers, led by a former Attorney General, Emery Robertson, filed for leave to appeal a decision made by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Colin Williams. In February, the DPP terminated a private criminal matter that was brought against Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, after he found that there was no evidence to substantiate a charge of sexual misconduct. When the matter was heard just about ten days ago, both sides presented arguments before Justice Thom. The defense team included three queen’s counsels, in Johnny Cheltenham, Parnell Campbell and Anthony Astaphan.