NEWS ARCHIVES

SEPTEMBER 2008

LOCAL

September 30th 2008 Edition

PRIME MINISTER’S UPDATE ON HIS RECENT TRIP TO NEW YORK

This country’s Prime Minister, while speaking at a press conference yesterday morning to report on his recent trip to New York for the 63rd Un General Assembly reported that significant progress was made in relation to the project to transform the E.T. Joshua Airport, after the International Airport at Argyle is completed.

The Prime Minister said that he was able to gain some insight into the construction of the tunnel, and to make important contacts with technical personnel.

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES HOLDS NO MALICE

Prime Minster Dr Ralph still has not indicated whether he would be filing any defamation charges against the policewoman who had accused him of rape. Speaking at a press conference yesterday morning Dr Gonsalves said that he holds no malice against anyone.

COMMONWEALTH CARIBBEAN YOUTH DAY

Today 30th September is celebrated as Commonwealth Caribbean Youth Day and the Youth Affairs Department in the Ministry of National Mobilization will host a number of activities to celebrate Annual Youth Month in October.

A release from the Youth Department says activities will be held under the theme “Vincentian youth: building a legacy of peace and sustainable development” and will focus in the entrepreneurial potential of the youth while recognizing their achievements.

SANDY BAY GOVERNMENT SCHOOL CELEBRATES 6TH ANNIVERSARY

On Friday 3rd October the Sandy Bay Government School will be celebrating its 6th anniversary at its present location. The school was opened on October 3, 2002, by then Minister of Education Hon Mike Browne.

To mark this occasion the school will be having a special assembly in the morning, followed by a speech from an invited guest from the community. Later on there will be a Spelling Competition among the four houses.

During the day’s celebration, the school will be raising funds by having cake sale, as well as local dishes such as breadfruit and saltfish and other delicacies.

OCTOBER 5TH TO 11TH IS MENTAL HEALTH WEEK

October 5th to 11th will be celebrated here as Mental Health Week. The week is annual event aimed at heightening the awareness of citizens of St Vincent and the Grenadines, in Matters relating to Mental Health.

The week’s activities will commence with the official launch, the declaring of the week opened by the Health Minister and a church service on the 5th October. Other activities will include Radio talks, teaching sessions at various schools across the nation, clean up campaign, field trips, patient outing staff appreciation day and a concert. The week’s activities will culminate with a Sports day at the Calliaqua Playing Field.

The activities will be held under the theme “Making Mental Health HIV/AIDS a Global Priority: Scaling Se4rvices through Citizen Advocacy and Action”.

ECCB CONTINUES SAVINGS AND INVESTMENT COURSE

The Eastern Caribbean Bank began its 4th Savings and Investment Course last Friday at the local leg of the University of the West Indies.

According to a release from the organizers, the first session on Personal Financial Planning was facilitated by Manager of RBTT Bank, Isaac Solomon. The course which currently has sixty-five participants is part of the Bank’s Public Education Program and is designed to assist participants in developing basic budgeting skills.

Since its implementation one hundred and seventy seven Vincentians have graduated over the past two years. Some of the other topics to be touched on are Types of investment instruments, how to protect one’s self against financial risks, types of financial markets and developing and managing your investment portfolio.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH

The month of October will be celebrated here as youth month and the Youth Affairs Department in the Ministry of National Mobilization will host a number of activities to celebrate Annual Youth Month in October.

A release from the Department says activities will be held under the theme “Vincentian youth: building a legacy of peace and sustainable development” and will focus in the entrepreneurial potential of the youth while recognizing their achievements.

The highlight of the month will be the Annual youth Awards which will include awards in agriculture, music, dance, song, drama, trade, science technology and tourism. A youth rally will also be held on 23rd October.

NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION MEETING

The Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries will be holding a meeting for persons who have applied and paid for display booths in the upcoming National Agricultural Exhibition that is slated for 8th October to the 12th.

The meeting will be held tomorrow 1st October, at the Exhibition site, at Richmond Hill. The meeting will discuss the conditions for the use of the booths and other matters pertaining to displaying goods and services on the site. The National Agricultural Exhibitions will be held under the theme ‘Innovative Agriculture and Agro Industry, Fuel for Sustainable Development’.

September 29th 2008 Edition

PRIME MINISTER UPDATES THE NATION ON HIS RECENT TRIP TO NEW YORK

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves held a press conference earlier this morning to update the nation on his recent trip to New York, to attend the 63rd United Nations General Assembly.

Dr Gonsalves described the trip as very successful and revealed that several bilateral agreements were made with world leaders as well as private sector meetings, to discuss possible investments.

He also disclosed that Turkey has indicated further assistance in the construction of the Argyle International airport.

OVER $25,000 RAISED TO ASSIST CUBANS WHO WERE AFFECTED BY RECENT STORMS

Over twenty five thousand dollars was pledged by Vincentians to assist Cubans who have been affected by recent storms.

The pledges were made by some 201 persons, who called in during a special radio program, spearheaded by the St.Vincent/Cuba Friendship Society.

A total of twenty six thousand, one hundred and fifty five dollars ($26,155) was pledged during the program. The Radio program was part of a larger program being co-ordinated by the St. Vincent/Cuba Friendship Society, to solicit donations for the Cuba Relief Fund.

The program called “I care for Cuba” also includes the sending of letters to Cuba-trained graduates and beneficiaries of the Vision Now program, as well as Business Enterprises and Social Organizations to request funds. The schools will also be targeted, through an initiative called “A Dollar for Cuba”.

FISHERIES DIVISION HOST WORKSHOP

Stakeholders in the Fisheries sector will be attending a series of workshops on the preparation of the fishing Industry for the European Union Inspection Visits from this week.

The workshop is hosted by the Fisheries Division Quality assurance and product Development Unit in the Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries.

A release from the Fisheries division says that the workshops will highlight the major issues affecting fish quality in various aspects of the industry.

It will also look at the position of St. Vincent and the Grenadines concerning our ability to establish and sustain trade in fish with the EU. The first workshop will be held tomorrow at the Barrouaille Fisheries Centre from 4:00pm.

September 26th 2008 Edition

PM GONSALVES ADDRESS UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY TODAY

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will round up his visit to New York, for the 63rd General Assembly of the United Nations, today.

PM Gonsalves will make a statement at the 63rd United General Assembly; meet with Turkish President H. E Mr. Abdullah Gul.

Dr Gonsalves will also host a Town Hall meeting at the Red Breast Café in Brooklyn. He will engage in a period of meet and greet. He will make an address and will also take questions from the audience.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is expected back in the state on Sunday September 28th.

SECURITY FOR JUDGES AND MAGISTRATES IN SVG, THE BEST IN THE OECS

High Court Judge, Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle has praised the security provided for judges and magistrates in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, stating that it is the best in the entire OECS. Speaking at a special sitting of the High Court on September 15th 2008, the judge remarked that “I have worked all over, and this is the best I have seen since I have been a judge” The High Court Judge noted that when he first came to St. Vincent he received 6:00am to 6:00pm security, but it was increased to 24 hours security. He indicated that he feels even more secure since a security keypad system has been installed at his Chambers at the High Court.

He stated that some judges in the Caribbean have been victims of multiple burglaries because of lack of security at their residences, and that they have not been exposed to the kind of top-notch security which obtains in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and thanked the government for looking after the safety of the judges.

And Attorney General Judith Jones-Morgan has indicated that further measures are being taken to further beef up the security at Magistrates and Judges residences, and that when the new Judge’s residence is being constructed next year, that a revised plan would be designed for added security.

LAND TITLING PROJECT WOULD BE OF IMMENSE BENEFIT TO THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING SAYS MINISTER FRANCIS

Physical Planning Minister Julian Francis, while speaking at the launch of the Land Titling and Land Registration project, said that the project would be of immense benefit to the Ministry of Housing.

Francis said that the project would provide information to get effect policies such as mapping agricultural lands and helping the government to revamp the registration system. He further added that the project would help to turn idle lands for agricultural use, and will help to develop a modern land administration tax system.

This project was launched at the Ministry of Housing, last Thursday.

PAN AGAINST CRIME PROGRAM GOES TO LAYOU

The Pan Against Crime Program will resume this Sunday, September 28th in Layou, at the Hard Court, commencing at 4:30 pm.

Brief addresses will be delivered by the Police Divisional Commander, representatives of the National Commission on Crime Prevention, Youlou Pan Movement and Commissioner of Police, Keith Miller.

Performances will come from the Layou Government and the Buccament Bay Secondary Schools, New Generation Gospel Band, Shaunelle Mc Kenzie, Potential and Rythymix Steel Orchestras and the Police Band.

Other Pan Against Crime concerts have also been scheduled for Biabou on October 5th, Canouan, on November 1st and Union Island on November 15th. The theme under which the concerts are held is “Play a Pan, Arrange a Song, Build the Mind, Down with Violence and Crime”.

PERMANENT SECRETARY GLYNN ON LAND TITLING PROJECT

While speaking at Thursday’s launch of the National Land Titling and Land Registration Project, by the Ministry of Housing, Permanent Secretary Kenrick Glynn said that the project augments previous initiatives to adequately manage land in St Vincent and the Grenadines, such as providing and modernizing a Land Information System.

Glynn further added that proper land management policies and programmes are needed especially in a small nation state like St Vincent and the Grenadines.

FAMILY COURT PRESIDENT THREATHENED

Reports indicate that the police are investigating a threath issued via telephone earlier this month on the life of Family Court President Coleen Mc Donald, and that security at the Family Court and her home has been stepped up.

LIONS CLUB SECONDARY SCHOOL PUBLIC SPEAKING COMPETITION CONCLUDES TODAY

The zonal preliminaries of the 2008 Lions Club South Secondary School Public Speaking Competition comes to an end today.

Students in zone four will later this evening debate the topic “The call for Reparation- Isn’t it time for this issue to be laid to rest?”

Yesterday students in zone three debated the topic “As a nation, we have not responded adequately to the escalating food prices”. This event took place at the Biabou Learning Resource Center.

The top six speakers will be selected and will go on to represent their schools at the finals on Wednesday October 22nd, at the Methodist Church Hall.

QUALITY ASSURANCE AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP

A series of workshops will be held by the Quality Assurance and Product Development Unit in the Ministry Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries, on the Preparation of the Fishing Industry for the European Union Inspection Visits.

The workshops will highlight the major issues affecting fish quality in various aspects of the industry and will look at the position of St Vincent and the Grenadines with regards to our ability to establish and sustain trade in fish with the EU.

There will be a workshop on Tuesday September 30th, at the Barrouaille Fisheries Center, beginning at 4:00 pm.

September 25th 2008 Edition

LAND TITLE REGISTRY LAUNCHES TODAY

A Land Title project will be launched here today, by the Ministry of Housing. The lunching will take place at the Ministry’s Conference Room at nine thirty this morning.

ACTING PM BROWNE TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE WITH CUBAN OFFICIALS

Also Acting Prime Minister Hon Mike Browne will hold a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Room, at nine. The Acting PM along with officials from the Cuban Embassy will bring the nation up to date with issues regarding award of Cuban scholarships to Vincentians.

ATTENDANCE BY LAWYERS “DISMAL”

High Court Judge, Justice Bruce-Lyle did not mince words with members of the legal profession, when he described the attendance of lawyers at an ecumenical service, parade and special sitting of the High Court to mark the opening of the new law year, as “dismal”.

Addressing members of the legal profession on Monday 15th September, Justice Bruce-Lyle further stated that it was the worst attendance he had seen in all his years on the bench. He told the small gathering of lawyers in attendance that “ we need to police ourselves, if we don’t, we would sink further in the mud. If we don’t really do anything to raise up, we can say goodbye to the word noble’. The Judge further warned the lawyers that ” we are really down there in the eyes of the public”.

Meanwhile Justice Bruce-Lyle issued a stern warning to lawyers that “I intend to adopt a hard line in the current assizes. When you come here and start to “ pomposet”, I will tell you, you are wasting my time.”

PARTNERS OF THE AMERICAS RE-LAUNCHED

A formal re-launching ceremony of the St Vincent Partners of the Americas will take place here next Monday September 29th.

‘Partners of the Americas’ was launched in this country, over twenty years ago under the leadership of Col. S.A Anderson and Marjorie Jackson. The organisation is said to have made a worthwhile contribution to community and national development in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The re-launch will take place at the Cobblestone Rooftop at 8 am. Director of Planning, Mrs. Laura Anthony Browne and Queens Counsel, Andrew Cummings will be the special guest speakers. Founding member Marjorie Jackson will be honoured and recognised for her role in developing Partners of the Americas in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

FARMERS DISCUSS PEPPER CROP PRODUCTION

Over thirty farmers met yesterday, to renew their efforts at ensuring that there is a successful hot pepper crop this year.

This country’s Ministry of Agriculture is partnering with the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute CARDI to host the one day session.

The session is being facilitated by CARDI Technician Lauron Baptiste who says that they are looking at some of the agronomic practices that appear to be affecting the production of hot peppers here.

CARDI’s Country Representative Pathleen Titus says because of the high demand from local agro-processors, arrangements are being put in place for the production and supply of Hot Peppers on a sustained basis.

SVG USING CULTURE TO STRENGHTEN DIPLOMATIC RELATION ACROSS THE REGION

Cultural Minister Hon Rene Baptiste has indicated that this country is using the platform of culture to strengthen diplomatic Relation across the region.

Minister Baptiste made the point during an address at the Launch of a project to translate a Vincentian History text book to Spanish for the Republic of Cuba.

Baptiste said that many countries are interested in establishing diplomatic relations with St. Vincent and the Grenadines and is also encouraging young persons, who are interested in cinematography to come forward and make use of opportunities to study in Cuba.

PRO OF SOLID WASTE UNIT COMMENTS ON IMPROPER WASTE DISPOSAL

Joan Ryan, Public Relations Officer of the Central Water and Sewerage Authority, the Solid Waste Management Unit is working diligently to curb the practice of improper waste disposal in the capital Kingstown.

Ms. Ryan said the unit has been engaged in discussions with the Chamber of industry and Commerce on the implementation of a suitable project to address the issue.

Ryan also called on persons to use proper waste disposal methods, as it contributes to the overall health and well-being of the society.

On the issue of illegal dumping, Miss Ryan said every effort is being made to curb the unlawful practice and called on citizens to play a greater role in ensuring the prosecution of those responsible.

September 24th 2008 Edition

PM GONSALVES ADDRESSES ROUNDTABLE MEETING ON AFRICA’S DEVELOPMENT NEEDS...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has come out against the shortcomings and failings of the developed world in living up to its assistance and commitments to Africa. Addressing a high-level Roundtable meeting on Africa’s Development Needs at the United Nations in New York, Dr Gonsalves pointed out that the developed world had set itself a target of providing Official Development Assistance equal to 0.7% of GNP.

He said this target, which was first suggested almost 40 years ago, has not been met and the PM reminded the Roundtable that it was looking increasingly unlikely that the G-8 would fulfill its pledge to double aid to Africa by the year 2010.

Dr Gonsalves also condemned unnecessary aid conditionalities and the use of aid as a political tool and informed the gathering that generosity is not the privilege of the wealthy, but of the sincere. The Vincentian prime minister suggested that the sincerity of the international community should force the world to get on with it, and do what needs to be done before additional African lives are lost unnecessarily.

DEP PM/FOREIGN MINISTER HOLDS BILATERAL MEETING WITH ALGERIAN COUNTERPART

Foreign Minister Sir Louis Straker, who is in New York as part of the Vincentian delegation attending the 59th General Assembly of the UN, held private bilateral meeting with his Algerian counterpart. The two ministers discussed greater economic, social, cultural, and educational cooperation between the two countries.

Sir Louis also signed a document establishing formal diplomatic relations with the Republic of Senegal. The instruments establishing diplomatic relations were signed on the margins of the Roundtable co-chaired by PM Gonsalves and President Wade of Senegal.

The establishment of links with West African countries, the ancestral home of a majority of Vincentians, is a priority of the Government’s foreign policy. In the near term, the two countries will stress cultural, educational and people-to-people linkages, to allow for greater understanding and deeper relationships between Senegal and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The countries also pledged to cooperate on issues of mutual interest in development, trade and multilateral affairs.

WEST ST. GEORGE LAUNCHES FOOD AND FLOWERS PROGRAM

The West St George Community, will on Friday September 26th, be launching a programme called Food and Flowers, Planting for a better world.

According to Acting Prime Minister and representative for the constituency, Hon Mike Browne this is their contribution towards the National Agricultural and Agro-based Industrial Exhibitions that will be taking place next month.

The aim of the launch, he says, is to sensitise the community, on the importance of the food security and beautification of the community through backyard gardening and the growing of flowers. The launch will take place at the Dauphne Community Centre, beginning at 10:00 am.

ACTING PM EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES TO LANDSLIDE VICTIM

During a press conference, yesterday morning, at Cabinet Room, to update the nation on the damage caused by recent heavy rainfall that affected the country last weekend, Acting Prime Minister Hon Mike Browne, expressed condolences, to the bereaved family of the late Patsy Jack Bowman, who lost her life, when a landslide occurred, at the Ratho Mill main road and buried the car in which she was traveling.

Director of the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, who was also present, expressed his condolences as well and thanked the individuals and agencies that assisted them in Friday’s clean up exercise. Nearly 200 mm of rain was reported to have fallen between last Thursday and Saturday, which resulted in 30 landslides and 8 road blockages. An investigation into Friday’s incident is expected to be launched.

September 23rd 2008 Edition

NEMO DENIES THAT IT DID NOT ACT WITH HASTE...

Director of the National Emergency Management organization, NEMO, Howie Prince, has denied reports that his organisation did not act with haste to find a car that was buried under debris, after a retaining wall broke last Friday.

Addressing members of the media this morning, Prince said when he was in formed that the possibility exist that a car was under the debris, instructions were given for the operations to be changed from that of clearing the road to one of search and rescue.

Prince pointed out he spoke to the relatives of Patsy Jack-Bowman, whose body was later found under the debris in her car, when he arrived on the scene, after he received information that a car could be under the debris.

REDUCTION IN PETROL PRODUCTS...

Persons purchasing gasoline, diesel and kerosene should now be paying less for the products following a decision by Cabinet to order a reduction.

A release from the Ministry of Trade states the retail price for dieselis now $14.00 per gallon for diesel, $14.33 for gasoline and $14.10 for kerosene. For the past three months diesel was sold at $15.50. gasoline at $15.33 and kerosene at $15.10.

NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL AND AGRO EXHIBITION...

As part of the celebrations for the National Agricultural and Agro based Industrial Exhibition and 8th Caribbean Week of Agriculture, several competitors were organised including the Home and Backyard Gardening and School Gardening Competition, which began in August 2008.

This competition seeks to encourage persons in beautifying their home surroundings and schools as well as cultivating available lands to produce food for their home and schools.

The judging exercise of the Home and School Garden competition began on September 8th and continued throughout the state over the past 2 weeks. Coordinator of this exercise, Michael Gloster expressed much satisfaction with the competitions.

ACTING PRIME MINISTER HON MIKE BROWNE TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE...

Acting Prime Minister Hon Mike Browne, in collaboration with NEMO, will hold a press conference at 10:00 am later this morning, at Cabinet Room.

The Prime Minister (Ag) will bring the nation up to date on the damages caused by the recent heavy rainfall, which affected this country.

TOURISM WEEK

The Ministry of Tourism in conjunction with the St Vincent and the Grenadines Hotel and Tourism Association will be hosting Tourism Week from November 23-26th.

As part of the week’s activities, a clean up campaign will be taking place on Sunday November 23rd, in Kingstown from 7:30 am. A meeting will be held on October 2nd, at the Ministry of Tourism Conference Room, to plan the event. The theme for the week’s activity is “embracing all things Vincy”-Vincy Love, Vincy Flavour, Vincy Food.

LABOUR DEPARTMENT HOLDS WORKSHOP...

The Department of Labour in collaboration with the Employer’s Federation and the Chamber of Commerce would be hosting a tripartite workshop on “Office Safety and means of “Egress”, today at the Chamber of Commerce Conference Room at 9:00 a.m.

The objectives of the workshop is to sensitize participants on the identification of hazards in the office, procedures for handling complaints regarding safety and health, how to exit the office the office in the event of emergency and the employer and employee responsibility.

Occupational Safety and Health authorized local representative in St Vincent and the Grenadines; Mr Nigel Russell will be the resource person.

MARCH AGAINST COST OF ELECTRICITY...

A group of persons staged a march yesterday to protest the high cost of electricity. The march commenced at Heritage Square and ended in front of Vinlce’s main office at Paul’s Avenue.

One of the persons involved, Clemroy ‘Bert’ Francois said the march was against Vinlec's high fuel surchage, which he says should be working towards the development of the St Vincent and the Grenadines. According to Francois, Vinlec's interest is in profit-making but he thinks that not all of company’s cost should be passed on to the consumers.

September 22nd 2008 Edition

PM GONSALVES TO ATTEND RECEPTION HOSTED BY LAURA BUSH...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will today attend a reception hosted by Laura Bush, wife of US president George W Bush. He will also attend a high-level meeting on Africa’s Development at the UN and will meet with the president of Uganda.

Dr Gonsalves is leading a four-member delegation to the United Nations 59th General Assembly. The delegation includes Dr Gonsalves’ wife, Eloise, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir Louis Straker, the Ambassador to the United States, La Celia Prince and the Ambassador to the United Nations, Camillo Gonsalves. Dr Gonsalves is expected to address the General Assembly later this week.

ONE FATALITY FROM HEAVY RAINS...

Director of the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO, Howie Prince, has confirmed that one fatality occurred during last week’s heavy rain falls, in which more than four inches of rain fell.

Patsy Jack-Bowman of Arnos Vale was the unfortunate victim, after a retaining wall in the Ratho Mill area fell and smashed the vehicle she was traveling in.

Prince said his organization at first went to the area to clear the road, but when it was reported that someone may have been trapped beneath the debris, he said different types of equipment were sent for and the mode of the operation was switched to search and rescue. Jack-Bowman was the only person in her vehicle when the retaining wall collapsed.

PM GONSALVES COMMENTS ON ALLEGED ASSASSINATION CONSPIRACIES ON PRESIDENT CHAVEZ...

Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, is urging CARICOM heads to denounce alleged conspiracies to assassinate Venezuela President Hugo Chavez as naked terrorism. In a letter forwarded to all Heads of State and Governments, Dr Gonsalves said the matter was serious enough to warrant urgent attention.

In a front page article in the Guyana Chronicle last Saturday, some details of the letter were published, which stated that Gonsalves wanted CARICOM Foreign Ministers to have the issue raised at the level of the Organisation of American States, in conjunction with other member countries of the hemispheric body.

The Chronicle said Dr Gonsalves was briefed by the Venezuela's ambassador to St Vincent and the Grenadines on circumstances surrounding President Chavez's expression of solidarity with Bolivia for expelling the US Ambassador to that country, the subsequent expulsion of America's Ambassador to Caracas and the alleged unearthing of a plot to assassinate the Venezuelan President.

PM GONSALVES TO MEET WITH OTHER HEADS OF STATE...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will meet with the Presidents of Austrian, Iranian, Gahana and the First Vice President of Cuba tomorrow as part of his visit to New York, where he is attending the 59th General Assembly at the United Nations.

Dr Gonsalves left here last Saturday and is the head of a delegation that comprises his wife, Eloise, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sir Louis Straker, this country's ambassador to the USA and the OAS, La Celia Prince and this country's Ambassador to the UN, Camillo Gonsalves.

LIONS SOUTH SECONDARY SCHOOLS PUBLIC SPEAKING...

Twenty Four Secondary Schools across the country are winding up their presentations for participation in the 2008 edition of the Lions Club South, Secondary Schools Public Speaking Competition.

The Zonal Preliminaries starts tomorow and will conclude Friday at two venues across the island. According President of Lions Club South, Lion Evans John,four new schools will be added to this year’s competition with the intention of adding another two in 2009.

Students in Zone One will gather at the Peace Memorial Hall tomorow to debate the topic - Should the Manning Initiative for Economic Union between Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago be taken seriously?.Tomorrow, students in Zone Two will converge at the Peace Memorial Hall to debate the topic – The Economic Partnership Agreement – another imposition by the International Community?

LIAT TO REDUCE FUEL SURCHARGE...

LIAT announced that with effect from 15th October,it will be reducing its fuel surcharge by US$2.50 per one way journey.

According to a release from Liat, this reduction was made possible by the easing of world oil prices that now appear to have stabilized at around US$100 per barrel. LIAT’s current surcharge was fixed when oil reached US$120. per barrel. Mark Darby, CEO of LIAT said at the time of the increased fuel surcharge, Liat made a commitment to reduce the surcharge when oil prices declined.

September 19th 2008 Edition

HEAVY RAINS CAUSE LANDSLIDES AND OTHER DAMAGE...

St Vincent and the Grenadines has been placed on a flood warning. A release from the National Emergency Management Organisation, NEMO states that heavy early morning rains associated with a trough system have resulted in flooding and landslides in several areas of the country.

Between 8:00pm last night and 6:00am, this morning almost 2 inches of rainfall was recorded at the E.T Joshua Airport and heavier rainfall was experienced in the higher elevations. According to the Met Office’s forecast today will be mostly cloudy to overcast with periods of rain, occasional outbreaks of moderate to heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms.

There is a comfirmed report from the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force that the bridge at Pembroke has overflowed this morning and also flooding in the in the Calliaqua Fairhall area. There is also a confirmed report from the Ministry of Education that all schools are closed at noon today. Parents are asked to make arrangements for their children.

NEMO is therefore appealing to all residents to be extremely careful and advises persons living in areas prone to flooding to keep a watchful eye. They are also asking that children who must cross rivers, gutters and gullies be escorted. The organisation further warned that continuing rainfall may result in more landslides and flooding.

A retaining wall at Ratho Mill opposite the Sunsail Marina and Hotel has collapsed, making that section of the Windward Highway impassable. Motorists are therefore asked to use the Sugar Mill Inn road as an alternative route.

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVS LEADS DELEGATION TO UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY...

This country’s Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will head a delegation, to New York, this Saturday, to attend the 59th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Dr Gonsalves will be accompanied by his wife, Eloise Gonsalves, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir Louis Straker, the Ambassador to the United States, La Celia Prince and Ambassador to the United Nations, Camillo Gonsalves.

PM Gonsalves will make three important addresses at the General Assembly. During the week, he is also expected to hold one on one talks, with the leaders of eight world countries, including Turkey, South Africa, Uganda, Austria, Ghana and Portugal. Dr Gonsalves will attend a meeting of the Commonwealth heads of Government, as well as two meetings in the Vincentian Diaspora. Pm Gonsalves is expected back in the state on September 28th.

Minister of Mobilisation Hon Mike Browne will act as Prime Minister in Dr Gonsalves’ absence.

MINISTER DANIEL DELIVERS FEATURE ADDRESS AT CARIBBEAN FISHERIES FORUM MEETING...

Agriculture Minister, Hon Montgomery Daniel, in his feature address at the opening of the Third Special Meeting of the Caribbean Fisheries Forum, said that the Fisheries sector here is important to the Agricultural sector and that it plays a vital role within the economy of the country.

Daniel said that the government has recognized this, and is currently constructing a fishing facility at Owia, at a cost of some thirty five million dollars to improve the landing facilities in the northern part of the island, and recently established a Fishing facility at a cost of some six million dollars, to assist fishermen in purchasing improved fleet that can bring more benefit to the fishermen and the industry as a whole.

The Minister also added that the government recently placed a ban on live bait to ensure increased local stocks and an increased quantity of fish, to the general public. He added that the availability of fish for food can be improved by making better use of production such as reducing post harvest losses and increasing the percentage of human consumption.

FASHION CARIBBEAN ON HOLD...

The Image Modelling Agency after seven years, has decided to put its brain child, Fashion Caribbean, on hold.

Created as a way of highlighting Vincentian models to the region, and beyond, it was the first of the region's major Fashion events and has been featured extensively in the regional Media.

Image has decided to reposition and rebrand the Fashion Caribbean package, as a viable, high-quality Vincentian product, worth exporting and will be putting together a group of Private and Public Sector Advisors and Stakeholders, to form a rebranding and repositioning committee.

NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL AND AGRO EXHIBITION...

A release from the Ministry of Agriculture states that the theme for this year’s National Agriculture and Agro based Industrial Exhibition ‘innovative, Agriculture and Agro Industry- fuel for sustainable Development seeks to highlight the approaches being embraced to engender the new agricultural concepts of using advanced technology and information to foster increased food production and food security.

The exhibition will promote advancements in the value addition chain in the realms of agro processing, pharmaceuticals and crucially as a potential source of energy substitution.

It will take place from October 8th to 12th at the Richmond Hill Playing Field in Kingstown.

September 18th 2008 Edition

FISHERIES OFFICERS ATTEND CARIBBEAN FISHERIES FORUM...

Some eighteen Fisheries officers are today wrapping up a three day, Third Special Meeting of the Caribbean Fisheries Forum, to continue discussions on issues such as the Second Medium Term Plan, the Operations Manual and the Common Fisheries Policy and Regime.

Chief Fisheries Officer, Raymond Ryan, in his opening remarks said that fisheries resources are an important source of food and livelihood for the people of the Caribbean region. He said that although fish stocks are renewable, they are not infinite and therefore need to be managed in a responsible manner if they are to continue to contribute to the nutritional, economic and social well being of the people in the region.

Ryan said that the region’s fish resources are characterized by declining stocks, a deteriorating marine environment which negatively impacts on habitats, ineffectively managed and still expanding fishing effort by fishers, who traditionally operate in open access fishing. He added that management provides the basis for further development and diversification of the region’s fisheries sector, reflecting stakeholders’ participation and fishers’ safety with increased investment in sustainable production and marketing.

VINCY FLAVOURS 2008 LAUNCED TODAY...

Vincy Flavours 2008 will be officially launched here this afternoon, at a ceremony hosted by the local Hotel and Tourism Association.

A release from the Association says this year’s event will feature Foods such as Okra, Pumpkin, Brown Rice, Eddoes, Peas, Herbs, Pawpaw and Rum.

The ceremony will be held under the theme “Appreciate an Alternative – Celebrate the Rhythm of Vincentian Food and Drink” .

The launch takes place at the Paradise Beach Hotel, Villa from two this afternoon and the awards ceremony for Vincy Flavours 2007, will also take place at this afternoon’s event.

INCREASES IN FLOUR AND RICE PRICES...

According to a release from the East Caribbean Group of Companies, the ECGC, the price for one hundred pound bag of Bakers flour and Carib Diamond rice have risen as of yesterday.

The maximum retail price for a pound of flour is now one dollar and forty one cents ($1.41), while the price per pound for rice is one dollar and seventy three cents ($1.73).

The release further says that the Ex-Factory price for 100 bags or more of flour is one hundred and thirteen dollars and fifty five cents ($113.55), and for rice the price is one hundred and forty two dollars and fifty six cents ($142.56).

The maximum wholesale price for a bag of flour is one hundred and twenty four dollars and ninety cents($124.90), and the price for rice is One hundred and fifty six dollars and eighty two cents $156.82).

September 17th 2008 Edition

CHARGES AGAINST PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES DISCONTINUED...

Police constable Michelle Andrews has dropped her indecent assault and rape charges against Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves. Andrews last Friday retained the services of Jaundy Martin who yesterday wrote the court stating his client was discontinuing all charges against Dr Gonsalves.

Martin replaced lawyers Kay Bacchus-Browne and Nicole Sylvester who were representing Andrews since last January, when she brought private criminal cases against Dr Gonsalves, which were taken over and discontinued by the office of the DPP.

LOCAL JOURNALIST TO BENEFIT FROM UWI OPEN CAMPUS...

Local journalists may soon benefit from professional training at the UWI Open Campus here. Very soon, journalists may be able to access some level of university training here instead of going to Jamaica.

This was indicated by Dr Adrian Fraser, Head of UWI Open Campus. Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Dr Fraser spoke of the need for journalists to be professionally trained. He said that the university already has online certificate programmes in journalism.

However, they will attempt to have short courses and workshops for journalists in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Dr Fraser said that these courses will be conducted by officials from CARIMAC and other areas of the university.



ECTEL CONDUCTS SURVEY...

The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority, ECTEL, will be conducting a survey of small and medium enterprises from now until October 2008. The survey is part of the annual review of the telecommunication sector and will assess the use of telecommunications services by the business sector in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Enumerators will be visiting business centres in St Vincent and the Grenadines to interview business owners and managers to determine the extent to which telecommunications and ICT services are used by business and the enumeration process will be facilitated by the Central Statistics Office of the Ministry of Finance.

The survey will also look at areas such as access to services, knowledge of available options, perceptions of cost of services, perceptions of importance of telecommunications and ICT services to business and level of investment in telecommunications and ICT services.

SVG/CUBA FRIENDSHIP SOCIETY...

The St Vincent and the Grenadines/Cuba Friendship Society is launching a campaign soliciting financial donations to assist the people of Cuba following the tremendous damage brought to that country by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.

The campaign will take the form of public awareness activities via the media, with a special one hour radio link-up- called One Hour For Cuba, during which callers can pledge donations to the cause.

Private Sector Businesses, Institutions and Civil Society Organizations will be sent letters requesting contributions, according to the release from Renwick Rose of the SVG/Cuban Friendly Society.

Rose said the society plans to request permission from the Ministry of Education for a special student and pupil donation of one dollar for Cuba and all churches will be asked to give special prayers and to make a special collection to aid the victims of the hurricanes in both Cuba and Haiti as well.

September 16th 2008 Edition

CONSTABLE ANDREWS FIRES LAWYERS ...

There are reports that police constable Michelle Andrews has fired the lawyers representing her in court matters relating to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves According to a legal source, Andrews reportedly obtained the services of another lawyer and documents were filed in the High Court informing the Registrar of the change of counsel.

Kay Bacchus-Browne, Nicole Sylvester, Sharon Cummings and Emery Robertson all appeared for Andrews in the initial legal proceedings against Dr Gonsalves.

WELLNESS HEALTH FAIR TODAY...

As part of activities to mark Wellness week, a Health Fair will take place today at the Peace Memorial Hall, from 12:00 to 6:00 pm.

The Fair will feature different aspects of the Ministry of Health and exhibitors from different government business entities and private sectors will also be part of tomorrow’s activity.

Some of these exhibitors will include, Insurance Brokers, the National AIDS Secretariat, The Central Water and Sewerage Authority and ECGC. The theme for the Wellness activities is “Love that Body, Mind and Spirit”

PM GONSALVES AMOUNG OECS LEADERS TO MEET IN ST. KITTS...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is among OECS leaders who will be in St Kitts next month to discuss the way forward for an OECS Economic Union with Trinidad. Last week, the OECS heads met in St Lucia and agreed unanimously to chart the way forward for an economic union with Trinidad and Tobago.

MINISTER BAPTISTE ON THE WELLNESS REVOLUTION...

Minister of Culture, Hon Rene Baptiste has been identified Dance as one of the greatest ways in which persons can participate in the Wellness Revolution, while staying healthy.

Minister Baptiste was at the time speaking at the official launch of the Wellness Revolution, on Saturday. She pointed out that dancing is one of the nation’s most prominent Cultural expressions which have many positive influences on the body.

Baptiste says people use dancing, worldwide, to stay in shape and is encouraging persons to join dance groups, as a fun way of staying in shape and healthy.

RESIDENTS OF CANOUAN TO BE SENSITIZED ON CSM AND CSME ...

A team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Commerce and Trade will be in the Grenadine Island of Canouan, on Thursday of this week, to further sensitize residents on CARICOM and the Single Market and Economy, the CSME.

A community consultation will be held at the Canouan Government School, at which the Ministry’s personnel will outline the issues related to the CSME and receive feedback from the residents. Discussions will also be held on next year’s ‘Vincy Homecoming” programme, as part of this country’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

Thursday’s consultation will be preceded by a ceremony to unveil a promotional CSME billboard, near top the Canouan Market.

SVG BECOMING GREEN CERTIFIED ...

Jankie Glass, Managing Director of the K Group of Companies, stated that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is aiming to become the region’s first green certified nation and her organisation pledges its support toward this cause.

Glass made this statement during last week’s twin launch of two national environmental projects, the National Coastal Clean-up Project and the Heritage Green Project.

Mrs. Glass says her company commits itself not only as a sponsor but also as hands on participants in the coastal cleanup and tree planting initiative.

She reiterates that it is the duty of everyone to ensure that the environment is clean and added that they intend to plant ten thousand trees in St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the next couple of months.

EFFORTS TO ASSIST CUBA CONTINUES...

In an effort to assist the people of Cuba following, the tremendous damage wrought to that country, by Hurricane Ike and Gustav, the St Vincent/Cuba Friendship Society is launching a campaign, to solicit financial donations.

The Campaign which is called “I Care for Cuba” will take the form of public awareness activities, via the media, with a special one hour radio link-up programme called “One Hour for Cuba”. This is to allow callers to pledge donations to this cause.

The society also plans to request permission from the Ministry of Education for a special student donation and for all churches to give special prayers and to make special collection, to aid the victims of the hurricanes in both Cuba and Haiti.

A special bank account is being established at the National Commercial Bank for this purpose.

DUST LEVELS AT ARGYLE TO BE MINIMIZED ...

The assurance has been given by Environment Development Planner, Bentley Browne that all efforts will be made to minimize the level of dust being generated, during the construction of the international airport at Argyle.

Browne said that large portions of vegetation would not be removed at once, and promised that dry areas will be watered continuously.

Browne also said that an Environment Impact Assessment was done on the international airport project and this report was handed over to the government and to the International Airport Development Company.

CONSTRUCTION WORK ON NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION SITE HAS COMMENCED...

Construction work has already begun at the site of the National Agricultural and Agro-Based Industrial Exhibition, which is set to open here on October 8th.

Minister of Agriculture, Montgomery Daniel says that they have already begun to construct booths at the Richmond Hill Playing Field, where the Exhibition will be held. He also indicated that the preliminary judging of crops and livestock is completed.

Minister Daniel said they have also received commitment from the local, regional and international organizations and individuals, who are willing to come forward to assist.

September 15th 2008 Edition

PRIME MINISTER TO HOLD MEDIA CONFERENCE ON RECENT MEETINGS IN BARBDOS AND ST. LUCIA ...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will meet with members of the media this afternoon after attending meetings in Barbados and St Lucia.

Dr Gonsalves will bring the nation up to date on the Barbados meeting, where Caricom members met agreed to sign the Economic Partnership Agreement, the EPA, with Europe. His trip to St Lucia was to meet with the OECS heads, to discuss the initiative to form an economic union with Trinidad and Tobago.

WELLNESS REVOLUTION ...

The Wellness Revolution was launched here last Saturday at the Arnos Vale Playing Filed. Persons attending the function were urged to pay attention to their health, especially to eating and exercise, so as to prevent a number of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, two of the leading causes of deaths here.

SVG’S PRIME MINISTER REACTS TO COMMENTS FROM PM THOMPSON OF BARBADOS ...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has reacted to Barbados Prime Minister Thompson's warning to the private sector against employing non-nationals in preference to Barbadians in the face of an unsatisfactorily high level of unemployment in Barbados.

The Barbados Advocate is quoting Dr Gonsalves as saying this stand simply cuts across both the spirit and letter of the revised CARICOM Treaty pertaining to movement of Community nationals.

US$3.34M TO PROVIDE HOUSING FOR INDEGENT POOR...

The government of Venezuela has set aside US$3.34 million dollars to this country's government to help in providing houses for the indigent poor. This was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, while addressing members for the media this afternoon at Cabinet Room.

The money will be placed in the Alba Funds, which is part of the Petro Caribe, an initiative of President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.

Dr Gonsalves said there are persons here who are real poor and the government's construction of low income houses will now take into consideration the construction of homes for those persons. According to Dr Gonsalves, the money will be used to construct some three hundred homes.

SVUT WANTS RECLASSIFICATION ISSUE RESOLVED...

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers' Union says it will not engage in any salary negotiations with the government until the reclassification issue is resolved.

Speaking at a news conference this morning, president of the union, Joy Matthews, stated her organisation cannot hold negotiations, since there has been no decision on the mid-range as it relates to the RN2 of the reclassification exercise.

Teachers and government were to commence salary negotiations this month but Matthews said this has been deferred.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves says he does not see this country's new diplomatic relations with Iran having any serious repercussions with the United States.

Dr Gonsalves said there are other countries in the Caribbean that have diplomatic relations and also pointed out that about 90% of the countries of the United Nations also have diplomatic relations with Iran, which also include the Vatican.

Dr Gonsalves said this country's democracy is strong enough to any relations with any country in the world.

September 12th 2008 Edition

WELLNESS REVOLUTION LAUNCHES TOMORROW...

The National Wellness revolution will be formally launched tomorrow Saturday September 13, by the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. This is done in an effort to sensitize the populace on the importance of wellness and healthy living and to signal the start of a new way of life for all Vincentians.

Speakers at tomorrow’s event would include Minister of Health Dr Douglas Slater, Agriculture Minister Montgomery Daniel, Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste, Director of Sports, Nelson Hillocks and President of the IOC, with Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves being the main speaker.

The day’s activity is scheduled to begin at 12:00 to 6:00 pm and the formal ceremony commences at 4:00 pm. The day will also be observed as Caribbean Wellness Day.

NEW FAIR HALL PRIMARY SCHOOL OPENS SEPT 15TH...

The new Fair Hall Primary School will commence the new school term on Monday September 15th, and the Ministry of Education has planned a grand opening for the first educational institution of its kind in the Glen/Fair Hall area.

The school was constructed by the government of St Vincent and the Grenadines and the Caribbean Development Bank, the CDB and was co-ordinated by the Education Management Unit. The school has the capacity to house some 420 students and is comprised of a library, a computer lab and a pre-school facility.

The date for the official opening of the school is yet to be announced but parents and guardians are advised to accompany students for the opening assembly with the Head teacher and staff and officials from the Ministry of Education.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES WILL FEATURE AT NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL EXHIPITION...

When the National Agricultural and Agro-based Industrial Exhibition open on October 4th, cultural activities are expected to be featured prominently.

Chief Agricultural Officer, Reuben Robinson, says a special night has been set aside during the Exhibition, to feature mainly cultural entertainment.

Mr Robertson said the entertainment will continue throughout the duration of the Exhibition. He also said that there will also be other sideshows, which includes Climbing the Greasy Pole, Catching the Greasy Pig, an Animal Parade, a Dog Show, and Banana Eating and Coconut Drinking Competitions.

SUNNY VALE PRIMARY CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY...

The Sunny Vale Primary School celebrated its 10th anniversary, earlier this week and a Special Assembly and Thanksgiving Service was held at the school.

Parliamentary Representative for West Kingstown, Rene Baptiste, who was at the event, disclosed that the school opened its doors, at Victoria Park Road on September 6, 1998 with two students. It was founded by retired Head Teacher, Hyacinth Sutherland.

In 2006, the school achieved one of its objectives by sending students to secondary school, one to the Girls High School and another to the JP Eustace Secondary School.

It followed up this milestone in 2008 by having seven students enter secondary school in September. Minister Baptiste participated in the celebrations and donated a quantity of exercise books.

MINISTER BAPTISTE URGES VINCENTIANS TO REFLECT ON THE DEVASTATING IMPACT OF CONFLICT...

Culture Minister, Rene Baptiste, has urged Vincentians to reflect on the devastating impact of conflict, which is now affecting every part of the globe.

Minister Baptiste made the call, during her remarks at a ceremony held yesterday in memory of Andre Cox, a former resident of West Kingstown.

Mr Cox is the only Vincentian known to have died in the terrorist attack in the United States, on September 11th, 2001.

Minister Baptiste said conflict and warfare affect every part of the globe, including small countries like St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

TWO MORE CHARGED WITH WALDRONDS MURDER...

Two more persons have been charged with the killing of Atiba Waldrond of Paul's Avenue, better known as Crimo. Police yesterday charged former national footballer, Benford Joseph and Devon Charles with Waldrond's killing.

Waldron was shot several times at the gas station at Pembroke on Thursday 28 August and became this country's 20th homicide for the year.

Joseph was also charged with another murder that occurred at Queen's Drive last June. Jawanza Fraser, Orman Hannaway, Roland Gumbs, Marlon Stokes and Kimani Williams are the others charged with Waldrond's death.

September 11th 2008 Edition

IMPLEMENTATION OF R2 CATEGORY COSTING GOVERNMENT MILLIONS...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, while speaking at a recent news conference, disclosed that the implementation of the R2 Category in the reclassification exercise is costing the Government millions of dollars.

Dr. Gonsalves said the process is almost complete, and he is optimistic that there will be a satisfactory conclusion to the exercise. The Prime Minister stated that the issue of salary negotiations outside of the context of the reclassification exercise is also being looked at.

He met, on Monday with officials from the Teachers Union and the Public Service Union, to present the recommendations which were accepted by Cabinet.

FOUR ARRESTED IN WALDRON MURDER ...

Police have arrested and charged jointly four young men for the murder of 28 year old Atiba Waldron, of Paul’s Avenue, which occurred on August 28 2008, at Pembroke.

They are 22 year old Roland Gumbs, a Computer Technician of Arnos Vale, Kimani Williams, a 24 year old Disc jockey of Chateabelair, Jawanza Fraser, a 29 year old labourer of Paul’s Avenue and Oman Hannaway 21 years old also of Paul’s Avenue. The men appeared at the Serious Offences Court today, and were remanded in custody.

OAS PLANS 60TH ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES ...

Two events are being planned by the local Office of the Organization of American States, OAS, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the hemispheric organization.

A release from the Office says the first event is slated for next Monday September 15th, and will take the form of a meeting of the principal OAS partners in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

They will come together to celebrate the signature of the OAS Charter, and to recognize the work and achievements of the OAS here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The session will take place at the Peace Memorial Hall from nine-thirty in the morning. The second event is slated for Thursday September 25th, to recognize the dual celebration of the 60th anniversary of both the OAS and the University of the West Indies. This forum will also take place at the Peace Memorial Hall from nine-thirty in the morning.

USA DIVERS TO VISIT SVG ...

A ten member team of the United States of America divers will visit the shores of this country later this month. The visit is in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and will be held from September 22nd- 27th.

A release from the Ministry states that the objective of the visit is to familiarize these operators with the dive aspect of St Vincent and the Grenadines. The Dive operators will come from various Dive Companies throughout the US and will participate in diving activities through local dive operator companies and will receive presentations from dive operators. While here they will also go on tours of Kingstown, the Turtle Sanctuary in Bequia and Hotel overviews.

KCCU NATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL STARTS THIS WEEKEND...

The 8th Kingstown Co-operative Credit Union National Dance Festival will begin this weekend with performances in the Traditional Dance category.

The Ministry of Culture says the preliminaries will run from September 13th to 27th, while the finals are slated for October 4th.

At the end of each night during the preliminaries, each presentation will be awarded a medal reflecting the standard of the presentation.

The finals will feature all gold medal winners with the final judging of duets and soloists to select the most outstanding duo and solo of the Festival.

Groups and Schools will receive cash awards for the Most Outstanding Modern, Social, Hip-Hop, Creative Folk and Traditional Dance. Awards will also be given for the Most Versatile, Most Expressive, and Most Promising Dancers. The Congeniality Trophy will also be awarded.

Members of staff of the KCCU will do a special performance as part of the Credit Union’s ongoing 50th anniversary celebrations.

September 10th 2008 Edition

ST. VINCENT PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO CUBA ...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves announced yesterday that this country was sending some US$100,000.00 to Cuba, after that country was hit by three hurricanes in the last few days.

Speaking a news conference yesterday, Dr Gonsalves said US$50,000.00 of the money will come out of the government consolidated funds, while the balance will come from Vinlec, the National Commercial Bank, the International Airport Development Company and National Properties. Dr Gonsalves said this country must show solidarity with its brothers and sisters in their time of need.

RADAR SITES TO BE ESTABLISHED IN COLLABERATION WITH GOVERNMENT OF T & T...

Government is moving to set up radar sites at strategic locations, in collaboration with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who made the announcement, said that while they seek to develop the mental capacity of members of the organization, it is also important that they provide the tools necessary for them to keep abreast with crime fighting.

Dr Gonsalves said that presently they have also just recently purchased three additional boats for use by the Coast Guard and Customs which will help to address the issue of vessels engaged in illegal activities in the waters around this country.

Dr Gonsalves says they also bought several vehicles for the Police Force this year and the traffic branch has been one of the major beneficiaries of these vehicles.

ALL VINCENTIAN STUDENTS IN CUBA ARE SAFE...

Ambassador to Cuba, Dexter Rose, has confirmed that all Vincentian students in Cuba are safe. Speaking on radio, Rose said there are Vincentian students in every province in Cuba and the hurricane which passed through the island recently reaped havoc on almost all of the provinces. However, the Ambassador give the assurance that all the Vincentians are safe and in good condition.

MINISTER OF TOURISM HOLDS DISCUSSION WITH TAIWANESE TOUR GUIDES AND TRAVEL AGENTS...

Minister of Tourism Glen Beache recently held discussions with Taiwanese tour guides and travel agents on the possibility of persons being introduced to vacations here.

Speaking to members of the media yesterday, the Minister explained that he was part of a delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker that visited to Taiwan. He said during the trip, he met with tour operators and travel agents who showed interest in getting people to come here, but expressed concerns about the distance.

To get from St Vincent to Taiwan, a flight must be taken to Barbados, then to New York where you board a 21-hour flight to Taiwan with the possibility of spending an hour in Anchorage Alaska. The Minister said if the travel arrangements seem attractive to the Taiwanese, a package that includes a visit to multiple islands like St Lucia and St Kitts and Nevis during one trip could be designed.

PM GONSALVES ATTENDS CARICOM MEETINGS IN BARBADOS AND ST. LUCIA...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves is now in Barbados where he will attend a special session of Caricom. The Caricom meeting was asked for by Barbados’ Prime Minister, David Thomson.

Thompson requested the meeting after a number of Caricom countries expressed their unwillingness to sing the Economic Partnership Agreement, the EPA, with Europe. Following the Caricom meeting, Dr Gonsalves will leave Barbados for a St Lucia to attend an OESC meeting.

CABLE & WIRELESS TO ASSIST CARIBBEAN NATIONS AFFECTED BY RECENT HURRICANES AND TROPICAL STORMS...

Cable & Wireless Caribbean announced today that it would be supporting the region to the tune of more than US$500,000 in cash and services to assist victims of the recent hurricanes and tropical storms that affected the region.

The company has established relief fund of US$250,000 to assist with aspects of restoration in the Caribbean territories that have been affected by Tropical Storm Gustav and Hurricanes Ike and Hanna.

MINISTER BEACHE PROPOSES A FEE TO ENTER SITES WHICH ARE UPGRADED UNDER THE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROJECT...

Minister of Tourism, Glen Beache, is proposing a fee for persons to enter places like the Botanical Gardens and the Vermont Nature Trail. Speaking at a news conference yesterday, Beache expressed his intention to have an entrance fee placed on these sites which are currently being upgraded under the Tourism Development Project.

The Tourism Development Project is a joint venture between St Vincent and the Grenadines and the European Union, with approximately $80 million being used to upgrade eighteen tourism sites. Beache said he is aware that there might be an outcry by some people about the proposed fees, but stated that maintenance of these sites is not cheap.

For the past two years, the Tourism Development Project has sought to upgrade sites that include, the Falls of Baleine, the Owia Salt Pond, Warriacou and Dark View Falls.

GOVERNMENT MAKES DONATION TO CUBA AND HAITI...

In the aftermath of hurricanes Gustav, Hanna and Ike, government, together with state owned enterprises, will send US$100,000 to Cuba and US$50,000 to Haiti, to assist them.

September 9th 2008 Edition

NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED...

Officials of the Ministry of Education announced the names of the students who will receive National Scholarships this year, at a news conference which was held today.

The Ministry Officials said the scholarships are of five years duration and students are not restricted to any specific area of study. They stated that the Government in its bid to encourage students to perform excellently is providing additional awards this year.

Five students will be provided with awards for specified areas of study; and four students will receive bursaries in the sum of 20-thousand dollars to cover tuition, books and other expenses. This is in addition to payment of economic cost. Nine special awards will be offered for persons to enter the teaching profession.

Overall six students gained scores of over eighty percent. Fifteen students received percentage ranking in excess of seventy percent with the top student Jason Haynes, gaining a score of 86.6 percent. He will receive the Prime Minister’s Award, which includes a medal and an additional sum of 10-thousand dollars. The historic thirty three awards this year will cost the government seven million dollars.

GOVERNOR GENERAL URGES MEDICAL STUDENTS TO STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE...

Students who have enlisted to study medicine at the local campus of the Trinity University School of Medicine are being urged to strive for excellence.

The appeal came from Governor General Dr. Sir Frederick Ballantyne, as he delivered the feature address yesterday at a White Coat Ceremony at the Peace Memorial Hall, organized by the University.

Sir Frederick urged the twenty five enlisted students to take their oath seriously, and to be outstanding medical practitioners. He also advised them not to discriminate against any patient, based on class, race, creed or even financial background.

FIRING RANGE AND FORENSIC LAB TO BE OPENED SOON...

A Firing Range and Forensic Lab is to be opened here soon. This was disclosed by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves while speaking at the signing of the contract for a new Georgetown Police Station. The Firing Range will be located at Arnos Vale and is valued at $1.6m.

Dr Gonsalves also stated that they are awaiting the technical team from Trinidad to organize the equipment, the building is ready and there has been a visit from the consultant of Barbados. Construction of the Georgetown Police Station will start this week.

FASHION DESIGN COURSE CONCLUDED...

Six participants have completed a two-week course in Fashion Design Portfolio Development conducted by designer Kimya Glasgow, in conjunction with the National Development Foundation.

The course covered the areas of Effective Research, Figure Drawing, Fashion Forecasting, Design Development, History of Fashion, Fashion Illustration, Flats and Specification Drawings, Mood Board and Fabric Board Development. Participants got a taste of a real world design situation where they were given design projects to research, complete and present.

According to the facilitator, Kimya Glasgow, "I am very pleased with the outcome. I saw a lot of natural talent and energy in this group.

VINCENTIAN FISHERMAN DENIED BAIL IN ANTIGUA...

A Vincentian is among three fishermen who were denied bail in Antigua by a magistrate. Vincentian Owen Mc Donald,Phoenix Webber of Barbuda and Kenrick Fenton of Antigua were allegedly caught with marijuana valued at more than EC$2 million.

The Antigua Sun reported that charge was laid following a joint operation by members of the National Drug and Money Control Policy and the Defence Force Coastguard. The prosecutor in opposing bail said that the men were fishermen and have access to boats and could be easily slipped out of the island.

LOCAL DJS VIE TO COMPETE IN REGIONAL COMPETITION...

This Saturday, a skilled disc jockey will walk away with EC$3000.00 in prizes and the opportunity to represent this country on a regional level.

DJ Dappa, Kid Supreme, The Dancehall Magistrate, DJ Baff and DJ Kal will all vie for the right to represent this country in the Green Synergy regional competition in Curacao.

September 8th 2008 Edition

JASON HAYNES AWARDED PRIME MINISTER’S AWARD ...

A former student of the St Martins Secondary School, Jason Haynes, was awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for being the top student in this year’s A level examinations Haynes was awarded the top National Scholarship after obtaining an over 80 percentage points in the overall ranking of students.

Last Thursday, Cabinet took a decision to award six national scholarships, nine national exhibitions, five special awards for specific subject areas, four bursaries, six science and maths awards and three Tech-Voc scholarships.

FAMILY COURT PRESIDENT SAYS SUMMONS REQUEST CONSTITUTES UNJUST HARASSMENT ON DR. GONSALVES...

President of the Family Court, Coleen Mc Donald has thrown out a request by lawyers representing police constable, Michelle Andrews, in a sexual assault matter against prime minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves.

Following a decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions to discontinue private criminal matters filed by Andrews’ lawyers, the High Court upheld his decision and this further strengthened by the Court of Appeal.

Last Thursday, Mc Donald wrote to Andrews’ lawyer, Kay Bacchus-Browne, stating her request for summons on the matter was frivolous, vexatious and abuse of the process of the court.

The Family Court President also stated that the summons requested represent a collateral attack on decisions of the DPP, the High Court and the Court of Appeal, and constitutes an unjust harassment on Dr Gonsalves.

NEW MEDICAL COLLEGE OPENS TODAY...

A new medical college opened its doors here today, following the closure of the Kingstown Medical in May 2007.

The Trinity University School of Medicine has some twenty-five students from the USA and Canada enlisted to begin classes at the institution, which is located at Harmony Hall.

Dean of the University Dr. Edward Johnson says their aim is to train and prepare its students to become highly qualified practitioners, committed to the principle of providing outstanding care for the citizens of North America and the Caribbean.

The University will host a White Coat Ceremony at the Peace Memorial Hall at 4:30 this afternoon.

COURT TO DETERMINE WHAT LYNCH AND BDS TO PAY LATER THIS MONTH...

Talk Show host Elwardo ‘EG’ Lynch and a Director of BDS Company that owns Nice Radio, Douglas De Freitas, will be back in court later this month. The court will determine the amount of money both Lynch and BDS will pay to Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves for comments Lynch made on Nice Radio.

Lawyers representing Dr Gonsalves are seeking over three hundred thousand dollars in damages for Lynch’s comments, which suggest Dr Gonsalves breached this country’s laws and could be hauled before the courts on an indictable offense.

Judgment has already been made against Lynch and BDS and the court will make a determination when the matter is called later this month.

SEVERAL PROJECTS FOR CANOUAN...

Plans are now being finalized by this country’s government for a series of projects on the Grenadine island of Canouan, over the next three years.

These projects will be funded under the Financing Agreement between the government and the Canouan Resort Development Company. The projects will include an Administrative Building, a Marine Resource Centre, a Bus Terminal and a Secondary School.

A Town Hall meeting will be hosted by the government next month, to provide more details on the projects to residents and to hear and answer questions and suggestions.

JEMS AWARDS CEREMONY FOR OCTOBER 11TH...

An awards ceremony will take place here on October11th, by the JEMS Progressive Community Organization as part of activities to mark their 30th anniversary.

Eleven individuals will be recognized for their significant contributions to the development of the organisation and St Vincent and the Grenadines on a whole. The organisation is seeking to develop programs geared towards enhancing livelihoods within the community.

President Andrew Simmons says Members of the Organization will hold discussions with residents of the community to find out what role they can play in this regard.

Mr. Simmons says the organization will be actively involved in supporting projects that will result in better livelihoods for the residents.

September 5th 2008 Edition

SVG WILL SOON HAVE A STATE OF THE ART FORENSIC LAB...

This country will soon have a state of the art operational Forensic Laboratory, to aid the police in crime fighting.

This was announced by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, yesterday, while speaking at the signing ceremony for the contract between the government and Sea Operations Ltd, to construct a Police Station, at Georgetown. PM Gonsalves said that training is already done and that they are now awaiting the technical team. Dr Gonsalves added that the facility has cost some 1.5 million dollars to set up.

Some monies from the 4.05 million dollars that was handed over to the Government of this country, by the Republic of China on Taiwan, will go towards the renovation of the Calliaqua Town Hall.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said work is expected to begin by the end of this year. The Youth Empowerment Programme and the Learning Resource Centers across the country will also benefit from this money.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines established relations with Taiwan in 1981, and over the years, the country has made significant contributions in the areas of health, education and infrastructural development among others.

MINISTER OF CULTURE SAYS SVG CONTINGENT TO CARIFESTA MADE A GREAT...

Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste says this country’s contingent to the Caribbean Festival of Arts in Guyana made a great impression, while there. Speaking at a News Conference, yesterday the Minister commended the delegation for the outstanding performances at the Festival.

The Vincentian contingent took part in 13 of the more than 15 scheduled events, and Minister Baptiste says their performances were well received. Minister Baptiste said this country also had the best cross section of books at the exhibition. A large contingent represented this country at the ten-day event which ended on August 31st.

HIGH COMMISSION FOR SVG IN LONDON GIVES ADVICE TO NATIONALS...

The High Commission for St Vincent and the Grenadines in London, strongly advises Vincentian nationals, who intend to travel abroad, to ensure that they are covered by adequate health and travel insurance, for the period of their stay. If a foreigner is taken ill in another country, the individual or their family can be faced with expensive medical bills and or the cost for an individual’s repatriation for further medical treatment or otherwise.

CALLIAQUA TOWN HALL RENOVATIONS TO START SOON...

Renovations will soon begin on the Calliaqua Town Hall.

Earlier this week, the Republic of China on Taiwan presented 4.05 million EC dollars to the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, some of which will go towards the construction of the Town Hall.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, while speaking at the handing over ceremony, said work is expected to begin by the end of this year.

September 4th 2008 Edition

CONTRACT SIGNED FOR NEW POLICE STATION AT GEORGETOWN...

Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves, while speaking this morning, at the signing ceremony of the $3.65m contract between the Government and Sea Operations SVG Limited for the construction of the Police station at Georgetown, reiterated the government’s commitment to continued development of the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, as they are the ones, who have the hard task of upholding the law in this country.

PM Gonsalves also noted that the new station will serve as a centerpiece division from the northern part of the island, to the central Police Station. Dr Gonsalves added that all the developments are part of the new sophisticated management arrangement and is aimed at building the organization’s Human Resource.

The stipulated time frame for the completion of the project is 15 months. Managing Director of Sea Operations SVG Limited, Mike Sutherland says they hope to begin construction by the third week of this month.

PM CALLS FOR ANALYSIS FOR POOR PERFORMANCE OF SOME SCHOOLS AND SUBJECTS IN EXTERNAL EXAMS...

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has advised that an analysis be carried out to find out the real reasons for the poor performance of some schools and certain subject areas in external examinations.

PM Gonsalves says that this needs to be done as this country is striving to improve the quality of education and academic performances.

He further added that incentives need to be provided to teachers, who produce good results, especially in the areas of science and mathematics. PM Gonsalves was at the time discussing the results of this year’s external examinations.

SVG COAST GUARD AND US NAVAL SERVICE DIVE TEAM CONDUCTS DEMOLITION EXERCISE...

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard Service, and members of the United States Naval Service GRASP Dive Team will be conducting a demolition exercise today off Cane Garden Point. It will be carried out between the hours of 10:45 am and 12:45 pm.

The team will be demolishing an unexploded ordinance, which was discovered in 2006 by a Recreation Diver. The Coastguard says the age or origin of the Ordinance is unknown.

Today’s exercise will cause some shockwaves in the area and some inconveniences to marine traffic that is transmitting to and from port Kingstown, during the period it is conducted.

The Coastguard said it is working along with the relevant agencies, to ensure that the activity is incident-free.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION SPECIALIST SAYS WELLNESS CAN BOOST CONFIDENCE...

Physical Education Specialist, Woodrow Williams has reiterated that wellness can boost an individual’s confidence.

He says however that the only problem thus far is that there is the need for more participation by males in the Physical activities that are being hosted here.

Also Chief Health Educator, Patsy Wyllie says the nation needs to look at the spill off from health because investment in health is a pre-requisite in ensuring adequate returns from other sector. This country will officially launch the Wellness Revolution, on Saturday September 13th, at Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves will deliver the feature address.

SVG EMPLOYERS FEDERATION HOLDS HIV/AIDS POLICY WORKSHOP...

A project will be carried out by the St. Vincent Employers’ Federation on the formulation and implementation of an HIV/AIDS Policy and Management System for the workplace.

The project is being funded by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines HIV/AIDS Prevention Control Project and is being carried out over a five month period, using the International Labour Organization approach as a guide.

A workshop will be held next Thursday, to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS and its impact on the workplace. The session will be attended by representatives from the Business Community throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Resource Persons will be drawn from the Health Promotion Unit in the Ministry of Health and the Environment.

September 3rd 2008 Edition

PRIME MINISTER CONGRATULATES STUDENTS...

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has again congratulated the students who have excelled in this year’s external examinations.

Dr. Gonsalves, while speaking at a news conference yesterday morning, said the students have demonstrated that they have the capacity to perform extremely well.

Dr. Gonsalves said that in addition to the national scholarships to be awarded this year, it is expected that more awards will also be given to students who excel in the Sciences and Mathematics.

MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS SPECIAL ATTENTION IN WELLNESS REVOLUTION ...

Minister of Health and the environment, Dr Douglas Slater, has pointed out that Mental Health has been identified as an area that would need special attention during the Wellness Revolution, which is to be officially launched here later this month.

Minister Slater said a lot more needs to be done to improve mental health generally here. He also gave the assurance that the Ministry of Health is developing programs to sustain the Wellness Revolution, after it is launched on September 13th.

The Wellness Revolution will be officially launched here on Saturday September 13th, under the theme: “Love that body, Mind and Spirit’. The launch is part of a regional initiative, and CARICOM Wellness Day will also be observed on that day.

PRIME MINISTER GONSALVES HIGHLIGHTS NEED FOR INCENTIVE FOR TEACHERS...

This country’s Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has highlighted the need for incentives to be provided to teachers who produce good results, especially in the areas of science and mathematics.

PM Gonsalves made the point yesterday, as he discussed the results of this year’s external examinations. He noted that there was improvement in the results for science and mathematics this year, and he stressed that teachers should be rewarded for this.

Dr Gonsalves also noted that an analysis also needs to be done of other areas, where improvement is needed.

NCB THEATRE ARTS FESTIVAL TO BE LAUNCHED ON SUNDAY...

The NCB Theatre Arts Festival will be officially launched this Sunday and five theatre groups are expected to take part in the NCB Theatre Arts Festival which runs from October 31 to December 6th.

The launching ceremony will feature addresses from Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste, Cultural Officer Anthony Theobalds, Drama Development Officer Martin Quashie and representative from the National Commercial Bank Cheryl Rodriguez. The ceremony takes place at the Cruise Ship Terminal this Sunday from 4:30pm.

WORKSHOP FOR BUTCHERS ...

A workshop for butchers will take place today, as part of activities to mark Animal Health and Production Month. A release from the Ministry of Agriculture says 12 Butchers will be involved in the training exercise, which will focus on Special Cuts and Meat Handling.

The sessions will begin from the Conference Room of Food City, and will move to Richard Gibson’s Butcher’s Shop at Gibson Corner, for the practical sessions.

Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Kathian Hackshaw, says the workshop is being held to increase the value of local meat, by making sure it is readily available to local housewives.

Animal Health and Production Month is being held as part of activities leading up to the National Agricultural and Agro-Based Industrial Exhibition, which will be held in October.

September 2nd 2008 Edition

REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON TAIWAN MAKES MONETARY DONATION TO GOVERNMENT OF SVG...

The Republic of China on Taiwan made a monetary donation to the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines today.

Ambassador Leo Lee presented a cheque to Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves at Cabinet Room this morning. The money would go towards the development of Youth Empowerment Programme, the Calliaqua Town Hall and the Learning Resource Centers.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines established relations with Taiwan in 1981, and over the years, the country has made significant contributions in the areas of health, education and infrastructural development among others.

SVG AND MARTINIQUE DISCUSSING TRADE RELATIONS...

This country is now holding discussion on the possibility of establishing trade relations with Martinique.

Exportation Promotion and International Business and development officer in the Chamber of Commerce in Martinique, Sandra Drouault Eugene, will be visiting different businesses in the country, to explore this possibility.

Mrs. Drouault Eugene says there are trade opportunities for St. Vincent and the Grenadines for export of agricultural produce and that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry is trying to attract markets with high standards such as hotels and restaurants.

JEMS 30TH ANNIVERSARY ACTIVITIES...

The JEMS Progressive Development Organization will host a Consultation this week to look at the Argyle International Airport Project. President of JEMS Andrew Simmons says the consultation is being held as part of activities to observe the organization’s 30th anniversary.

Simmons says a team of officials will lead the discussion on the Airport Project and its impact on the Physical Environment and the Economy. Mr. Simmons says persons attending the consultation will have an opportunity to participate in the discussion.

The consultation takes place this Thursday at the Stubbs Primary School beginning at 7pm.

CWSA TO COMMISSION WASTE FACILITY AT DIAMOND...

The Central Water and Sewerage Authority will soon be commissioning a facility at Diamond that will be used for the proper disposal of sewerage waste.

The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines through the Ministry of Health is partnering with the Central Water and Sewerage Authority to construct the facility at Diamond.

Senior Engineer of Operations and Maintenance at the Central Water and Sewerage Authority Kenyatta Alleyne says they are seeking to develop an environmentally friendly site for the dumping of sewerage waste. The facility is expected to be commissioned in October this year.

September 1st 2008 Edition

CARIFESTA CONTINGENT RETURNS...

The Vincentian contingent that represented this country at CARIFESTA X is scheduled to return to the state today, following their ten-day stay in Guyana.

The contingent took part in 13 of the more than 15 scheduled events, and their performances are reported to have been well received.

The events included Visual, Performing, Literary and Philatelic Arts, Fashion Focus and a number of symposia and workshops.

The National Dance Troupe along with the 2008 Calypso Monarch Princess Monique, performed for a packed National Stadium yesterday, as the ten-day event came to a close.

The local contingent, which was led by Minister of Culture Rene Baptiste received accolades from other contingents and officials, including the President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo.

STRONG COMPETITION FOR NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS...

Reports indicate that there may be strong competition this year for the National Scholarships. Speaking at a News Conference last week, senior Education Officer, Mr. Marcus Caine noted that some 26 students produced very good results in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency or CAPE Examinations this year.

During his Ministerial Statement in Parliament last week, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves said additional National Scholarships are likely to be awarded this year, as a result of the vast improvement in results of the CAPE Examinations.

The Prime Minister said he was advised by the Education Authorities that this year’s results appear to be the best in living memory.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUATION DEVELOPMENT MOVES FORWARD...

The Ministry of Education is moving forward with plans to develop Early Childhood Education here. Minister of Education, Girlyn Miguel spoke of developments in this area, during her Ministerial Statement in Parliament last week.

Minister Miguel said government is upgrading a number of private Pre-Schools and she also noted that the Ministry of Education is engaged in a number of other initiatives to further develop Early Childhood Education.

GARIFUNA COALITION USA HOLD TALKS WITH AMBASSADOR PRINCE

Members of the Board of Directors of the Garifuna Coalition USA, Inc. recently met with St. Vincent and the Grenadines ` Ambassador to the United States, La Celia Prince. The purpose of the meeting was to talk about the plans for Regreso, Vincy 2009 and the Garifuna Reunion, as an integral part of the Homecoming celebrations.

During the meeting, Prince stated that getting the Diaspora engaged and interested in participating in next year's Homecoming to mark St Vincent and the Grenadines ' 30th anniversary of independence, is a priority for the Embassy.