News_files/Issue 8 - High Commission for St Vincent and the

High Commission for
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Peace, Love and Fraternal Greetings!
The occasion of the launching of this Newsletter is yet another means of communicating with you and
strengthening the existential bond which unites us in love and devotion to our homeland.
Official Newsletter
The Vincy
Issue 8
June 2011
Commonwealth Secretary General visits St. Vincent
and the Grenadines
COMMONWEALTH SECRETARY GENERAL HIS EXCELLENCY
Kamalesh Sharma was in St Vincent and the Grenadines
15 June on an official visit. While in St Vincent and the
Grenadines Sharma paid a visit to Prime Minister Hon Dr
Ralph Gonsalves and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign
Trade and Consumer Affairs Hon Dr Douglas Slater.
H.E. Sharma told members of the media that at the
Commonwealth Secretariat meeting in Australia, in
October a web portal Commonwealth Connect will be
launched. In response to H.E. Sharma’s announcement
of the launch of the Commonwealth web portal, Minister
of Foreign Affairs, Dr Douglas Slater anticipated that
school children would have mastered skills to use their
netbooks to navigate the site via wireless broadband
Internet in schools.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma meets with Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Prime
Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines (right), and Susan Dougan, Cabinet Secretary, during
his recent visit to the Caribbean
According to Slater, over the years the country has
benefited significantly from Commonwealth support
through training and capacity building in various areas.
One specific area where the country would have
received assistance is the improvement of the electoral
system, the Minister stated.
To this end, he expressed gratitude to H.E. Sharma for the
Commonwealth’s assistance and continuing efforts. St
Vincent and the Grenadines is benefiting on the
diplomatic front from the Commonwealth Secretariat
where the United Nations Mission in New York is housed
on a block owned by the Commonwealth Secretariat.
Minister Slater said that the Government is actively
taking an interest in the opening of the Commonwealth
Office in Geneva.
Mr. Sharma also met with Andre Cadogan, Senior Branch
Press conference with Kamalesh Sharma (Middle),Hon. Dr. Slater (left),and Media Consultant
Elson Crick (right)
Manager at First Caribbean Bank, and Derry Williams,
Managing Director of Bank of St Vincent and
Inside this issue:
•
St Vincent and the Grenadines appears before the United Nations Human Rights Council – Page 2
•
PM Gonsalves: CARICOM ‘missed’ Integration Opportunities – Page 3
•
SVG launches ‘One laptop per child’ initiative – Page 9
•
Meet a Vincy – Judy Boucher – Page 11
Issue 8 - June 2011
THE vincy
the Grenadines who agreed that a co-ordinated and focused effort was needed in the country to support youth employment Mr Sharma
has invited the bankers to join a Commonwealth network of financial institutions – a new initiative, which has been receiving positive
feedback from international development partners.
St Vincent and the Grenadines appears before the United Nations Human
Rights Council
GENEVA, Switzerland -- Saint Vincent
He also pointed out Ambassador Betty
and
made
King, who was in the Council chamber
concluding remarks before the United
to hear SVG’s presentation. King, the
Nations
on
Vincentian-born Ambassador of the
the
Grenadines
Human
13th
Rights
(SVG)
Council
May, becoming the 172nd
United States in Geneva, was called an
country to have its record on human
“illustrious member of our Diaspora” by
rights reviewed under the UN Human
Gonsalves.
Friday
Rights
Council
Universal
Periodic
Review process that began in 2008.
The Vincentian Ambassador told the
SVG’s progress in education, housing,
Council
L-R: Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves,
Mrs. Doris Charles
health and development was praised
by members of the Human Rights
about
democracy
the
in
growth
SVG
of
since
independence. He recounted the free
Council.
Grenadines to the United Nations. He was
and fair elections and peaceful transfers of
However, some countries also asked SVG
joined by Doris Charles, Minister Counselor
power that have been typical of the
to consider abolishing the death penalty,
of SVG’s High Commission to the United
country’s development. He also told the
and to remove any legal provisions against
Kingdom.
Council about the diversity of successive
the crime of buggery. Countries also asked
the
government
to
strengthen
Vincentian
governments,
which
have
its
SVG presented its national report to the
featured women, the youth, and prime
protection of the disabled, juveniles, and
Human Rights Council on Tuesday, 10 May,
ministers of different ethnic backgrounds.
victims of domestic violence.
2011. In introducing the national report,
Gonsalves told the Council that SVG was
Gonsalves also described the fundamental
The Universal Periodic Review involves a
proud of its “rapidly developing and
rights and freedoms protected by the
review of the human rights records of all
improving
human
Vincentian Constitution, as well as the
192 members of the United Nations. It
rights record.” The Ambassador reminded
additional human rights protections that
provides an opportunity for all countries to
the Council that SVG’s history was scarred
were
declare what actions they have taken to
by both slavery – “that most inhumane of
Constitution, which was defeated in the
improve the human rights situations in their
human
2009 referendum.
countries and to overcome challenges to
genocide of the Garifuna. However, he
“Unfortunately, the required referendum
the
The
pointed out that “In modern times, Saint
on the Constitution became a political
evaluated based on a
enjoyment
countries are
of
human
rights.
post-independence
rights
violations”
–
and
the
included
in
the
proposed
new
Vincent and the Grenadines has largely
football as the scheduled 2010 General
their
solved, and spectacularly so, many of the
Elections approached,” said Gonsalves.
government, as well as information from
ethnic and racial tensions that bedevil
“The Opposition, which formerly supported
the reports of independent human rights
other States.”
the Constitutional reform effort, withdrew
national
report
provided
by
experts and groups, human rights treaty
bodies,
and
non-governmental
from
the bipartisan process, and the
“The descendants of the slaveholder, the
discussion of the document took on a
organisations.
enslaved and the indigenous live in peace
sharply partisan political tone that made
The two-person Vincentian delegation to
and relative harmony with each other, and
sober and informed debate unexpectedly
Geneva,
with the more recent immigrants from Asia,
difficult.”
Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves of the
the
“on reflection, the State (cont’d Page 6)
Permanent Mission of Saint Vincent and the
Gonsalves.
Switzerland
was
led
by
Middle
East
and
Europe,”
said
2
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
PM Gonsalves: “CARICOM ‘missed’ integration opportunities”
By Kenton X. Chance
T
he Caribbean Community
were, possibly, an encumbrance or a
(CARICOM)
“missed
limitation on optimal regional activity.
greater
“If that has been the case in any of
integration since the financial crisis
these countries, the region can no
began in 2008, Prime Minister of St.
longer
Vincent and the Grenadines Dr.
relative
Ralph Gonsalves told the opening
the relative non-engagement by any
of
has
opportunities”
for
afford
the
luxury
of
non-engagement.
such
Indeed,
annual
of the “Big Four” inexorably leads to
Summit on Thursday, in a speech
the diminution of engagement by
read on his behalf by Foreign
others,” he said.
Affairs Minister Sen. Douglas Slater.
Gonsalves, one of the longest-serving
He said the very difficulties in the
current leaders in CARICOM, said it
international
was “perhaps inevitable
the
group’s
32nd
political
economy
that the
and their acute manifestations in
change in government in Trinidad and
CARICOM
Tobago in May 2010 would have
ought
to
prompt
greater, not lesser, integration.
resulted in a greater emphasis on
Gonsalves
domestic, rather than on regional,
said
that
some
matters.
CARICOM nations have rather
He
“tended to opt for nationalist or
veritable universal social law of ‘combined
even chauvinist solutions”.
According to him, while CARICOM has
marked time over the past two years,
member-states of “the more tightly-drawn”
Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States
(OECS)
“have
sought,
practically,
to
deepen and solidify their sub-regional
integration framework”.
Gonsalves said the “collective CARICOM
political leadership has permitted a ‘mood
of gloom’ to descend upon the wider
This, he said, resulted from the failure of
CARICOM heads “to differentiate between
‘mood’ and ‘strength’” and “to build upon
the unquestionable strengths present and
or
crippling
mood,
if
left
unattended, is likely to metamorphose into
a disability and, accordingly, may sap the
inherent strength of the organism,” he said
as he reaffirmed the strengths of the
regional integration movement, adding, “it
is our duty to build upon them creatively
Gonsalves said that in moving forward,
“must
grips
our
integration movement, inside and outside.
“Objective factors, not easily wished away
may account for the ‘unevenness’ in the
development of CARICOM,” he said.
He
added
that
development
is
undesirable”,
saying
functional
“the
not
that
coöperation
education,
social
necessarily
“enhanced
in
appreciate
that
a
the
by
new
government
and felt “sure” that Port-of-Spain “would
again be at the fore in pushing the regional
agenda on all fronts.
“The simple truth is that on the large
health
security,
security may yield far greater benefits to
the population than a ‘single economy’
which is skewed or unequally yoked”.
‘national’ and the ‘regional’ is blurred to
the point of non-existence. Globalisation
and
the
altered
international
architecture
political
COMMISSION
from Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and
Trinidad and Tobago.
caused this to be so,” he said.
He said that no credible, sustainable
regional solution to the challenges of
CLICO
and
British-American
OECS, Bahamas, Belize, Haiti, and Suriname
are not of vital importance. It is simply that
the “Big Four”, for various reasons, must, in
a coördinated way, drive, pull, or push the
possible without the active involvement of
Port-of-Spain.
“The leadership of Trinidad and Tobago,
any
way mean a
diminution of
member-states of CARICOM. I simply make
a salient point of practical politics in going
forward,” he said.
***
“it is arguable that domestic considerations
AND
the
importance on leadership of the other
Gonsalves said that in each of these cases
VINCENT
Insurance
and indeed of the ‘Big Four’, does not in
“It is not that the member-states of the
SAINT
the
have
Company and other regional issues is
He further said as CARICOM looks ahead,
FOR
of
economy
3
HIGH
is
committed regionalists”
strategic concerns, the line between the
‘uneven’
regional juggernaut,” he said.
and optimally”.
CARICOM
development’
the group “demands focused leadership”
enduring in CARICOM.
sour
uneven
telecommunications, energy, and national
integration movement”.
“A
and
said
“populated
THE
GRENADINES
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
PM Gonsalves & Sir Frederick addressed UK based
Vincentians
C
lose to five hundred persons of
the
Vincentian
Diaspora
converged on the premises of the
Bucks University in HIGH WYCOMBE,
England.. This is where Prime Minister of St
Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) Dr
Ralph Gonsalves presented his address.
He engaged the participants on issues
touching and concerning developments
in the island state of St. Vincent and the
Grenadines.
The event was also attended by Sir
Frederick Ballantyne, Governor General
[GG]of SVG; H.E Cenio Lewis, High
Commissioner for SVG to the UK; Mrs.
Doris Charles, Minister Counsellor, other
members of the staff of the High
Front row: Members of staff and SVG Associations singing the national anthem
Commission; Wife of the PM – Mrs. Eloise
Gonsalves; Dr Christopher Stange, Hon.
Consul for SVG to Northern Ireland; Cllr
Jane White, Mayor of High Wycombe;
other dignitaries; the members of the
National Executive of the SVG National
Associations and a strong representation
from Vincy Foods and other businesses
within the Vincentian Diaspora.
The GG highlighted the need for closer
collaboration on issues that would
undoubtedly affect the families that are
displaced as a result of the recent floods.
He was very pleased at the turn out at
the meeting and encouraged all to
continue to build the nation state. He
pledged his support for the efforts that
were being made by the PM and other
members of his government amidst trying
times.
The PM then updated the captive
audience on the recent national disaster
within the nation State. The recent floods PM Gonsalves (right) presents a copy each of his recent publications, to the Councillor
were estimated to have caused damage of High Wycombe, Bill Bendyshe-Brown (Left)
which resulted in the destruction of
homes and livelihood of just over $100ECD. This was a conservative estimate so far. “This is a vital set back as we have still not fully
recovered from the damage caused by Hurricane Tomas last October and this has had a knock on effect,” the Prime Minister
said.
He also gave a thorough insight into the various sectors of the economy in SVG. Again emphasis were also placed on how
Vincentians abroad and at home can positively impact the daily lives of other Vincentians amidst the harsh economic crises that
are affecting the world.
.
PM Gonsalves also discussed the importance of the existing foreign policy of SVG.
He said that
SVG is a small country that needs to be creative and would continue to look for opportunities, by making and maintaining “friends
of all” but abstaining from making enemies of any nation.
It is through these new foreign policy initiatives that scholarships to Vincentians are being offered. For this he thanked the many
nations that have continued so to do. The active part they have played in the education revolution was also noted. The issue of
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
4
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
one lap top per child has also been a hot topic for further discussion. He stated that roughly 15, 000 of those promised were
already secured from donor countries
and would be distributed within the
coming week. These were received from
Portugal and the Ministry of Education is
making plans to distribute these at the
primary level in the coming month.
Mention was also made of large scale
foreign direct investment within the
tourism sector. Various projects in St
Vincent, Bequia, Canouan and Union
Island were already creating benefits for
many Vincentians. The International
Airport at Argyle was also a topic for
much discussion.
Again, focus was on the ‘wellness
revolution’. Pm stressed that this was part
of his government’s efforts at creating
and maintaining a developing nation
state that can engage in successive
planning and implementation. Only
individuals that are healthy can be
engaged in such an undertaking. The
imaging and diagnostic equipment that
was recently acquired locally will
continue to serve such a purpose. In
addition, the improved infrastructure of
having
various
medical
facilities
stationed
around
the
island
will
undoubtedly help improve access to
care on a national basis.
PM Gonsalves address nationals
Other topics that were addressed
included
LIAT;
telecommunications;
agricultural diversification; and the
possibility of cocoa production.
He concluded his presentations by saying
that, “Today is about celebrating the
responsibility we all share as Vincentians
to be involved in the country and its
economic and social development.
While some Vincentians have left the
A section of the audience at the meeting in High Wycombe
country and sought out different paths,
please don’t forget your homeland and keeping attached to your roots.”
Dignitaries share a light moment
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
L-R: Professor Derek Godfrey, Jane White (Mayor),H.E. Sir Frederick
Ballantyne, Jaqueline Roberts, PM Ralph Gonsalves, Eloise
Gonsalves, H.E. Cenio Lewis, Councillor Bendyshe Brown
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
5
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
SVG and Turkey to foster relationship
G
overnor General of St.
Vincent
and
Grenadines,
the
H.E.
Sir
Frederick Ballantyne KCMG, and
High Commissioner, H.E. Cenio Lewis,
visited Turkey during the month of
May
(9-13)
where
they
both
attended the United Nations 4th
Conference
on
Less
Developed
Countries, held in Istanbul.
During their week in Istanbul, the two
member
delegation
seized
the
opportunity to meet with the Turkish
L-R: Photo: (1)H.E. Cenio Lewis, (2) H.E. Sir Frederick Ballantyne, (4)President of Turkey,
(5)Turkey’s Ambassador to Cuba, Others: Turkish Government officials
President, Abdullah Gül, and other
government officials, in discussions
on advancing relations between Turkey and the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. During their meeting, Sir Frederick informed the
President of the possibility that the internationally famous Borusan Quartet of Turkey may visit St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
During his attendance at the Conference, the Governor General also met with the Prime Minister of Kosovo.
Cont’d from Page 2.
too, could and should have done more to
that could involve consenting adults, and
ensure that the constitutional debate did
that there was no public or legislative
He told the Council that SVG could
not become hostage to more short-term
appetite to revise any of those provisions.
immediately
political
calculations,”
said
the
accept
49
of
the
92
recommendations, many of which were
ambassador.
Many
In a rigorous two-hour question-and-answer
SVG for its poverty reduction strategies and
government. He explained to the Council
session
between
Gonsalves
and
the
Council members congratulated
already
being
implemented
by
the
focus on health and education. They also
that another 26 recommendations would
members of the Council, 33 countries
praised
asked
construction
questions
and
made
the
government
of
for
the
require further study by the government
new
Belle
Isle
and wider consultation with the Vincentian
and
economic
public before making a response. The
the
recommendations to SVG.
Correctional
Responding to questions on the death
development.
penalty, Gonsalves explained that recent
The
judicial decisions made it extremely difficult
recommendations to SVG for national
laws
for executions to take place in SVG, where
action and consideration.
accepted by the government.
the death penalty has not been applied in
In wrapping-up the week-long Universal
over 15 years. He later asserted out that a
Periodic Review process on Friday, May 13,
The president of the Human Rights Council
majority of the world’s peoples still live in
Gonsalves thanked the Council for “the
praised SVG for its progress in the field of
countries that impose capital punishment.
warm expressions of support, solidarity and
human
A number of countries called on SVG to
recognition of the strides and efforts being
delegation
repeal all laws that criminalise sexual
made
responses
activities
Grenadines in the field of human rights;
between
consenting
However, Gonsalves
Vincentian
laws
adults.
pointed out
prohibited
that
incest,
prostitution, buggery and other sex acts
HIGH
COMMISSION
Human
by
Facility
remaining 17
Rights
Saint
Council
Vincent
made
and
92
the
recommendations, which
dealt mainly with the death penalty and
relating
to
rights
and
for
to
buggery,
congratulated
their
the
were
not
the
comprehensive
questions
and
recommendations of the Council.
and the progress we have achieved in
national
development
and
the
ennoblement of the Vincentian people.”
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
6
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
Ambassador Bente Angell-Hansen of Norway, who represented one of three countries with primary responsibility for recording and
reporting the positions of SVG, extended her “sincere appreciation to Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves for the effective and constructive
participation of his country in the review”
Cricket for Change visits
SVG
On Thursday 31st March 2011, two representatives
from “Cricket for Change” Charity organisation
visited St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).
Cricket for Change is a UK charity organization
involved
in
working
with
disabled
and
disadvantaged young people.
Representatives of the Charity have met with the
SVG High Commission in relation to delivering a
project in SVG and supporting the development of
the Neil Williams Academy.
In March of this year, Cricket for Change flew to
Trinidad to deliver a programme in partnership with
the Trinidad and Tobago Alliance for Sport and
Physical Education (TTASPE). Whilst in Trinidad, the
opportunity arose for the Charity representatives,
L-R: (2)Hon. Clayton Burgin, (4) Hon. Cecil Mckee, (5) Hon. Girlyn Miguel, (6)Hon.
Frederick Stephenson
Andy Dalby-Welsh and Ryan Jones to visit SVG.
Academy and the government. Andy highlighted that a link with
The SVG High Commission arranged a day of meetings for Andy
TTASPE could be beneficial and that our focus is very much on
and Ryan at the SVG Gala Inter-Secondary Athletics Sports event
improving the lives of disadvantaged young people rather than
held at the Arnos Vale playing field.
finding the next international cricketer.
The government, the Neil Williams Academy and SVG Sports
The members attending the meeting were very positive about
Development were all represented at the meeting.
Andy
what the programme could bring to SVG. Following the meeting
highlighted what Cricket for Change was developing in Trinidad
Andy and Ryan enjoyed the Inter-School competition and had a
and what they could potentially do in SVG in partnership with the
brief tour of the beautiful Island.
Northern Ireland Church Raises Funds for
the Caribbean
9th May 2011: Comber, NORTHERN IRELAND: The young people of Granshaw
Presbyterian Church served lunch to a large crowd, raising £1000.00
(approximately $4400.00 E.C.), as part of their annual Tear Fund event.
Half of the proceeds will be sent to Haiti through Tear Fund and the other half
will go directly to Schools for Children with Special Needs at Kingstown and
Georgetown on mainland St. Vincent.
Dr Christopher Stange, Chair of Fairtrade Belfast and from the Consulate of St.
Vincent and the Grenadines, which is based in Comber, was delighted to
receive the funds. He added: “It is through these local church partnerships
7
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
that we can address social issues, education, poverty, and disasters, making a real difference from the developed world to the developing
world. After the Haiti earthquake, Hurricane Tomas and recent flooding in the Eastern Caribbean entire communities were affected,
including the agricultural sector.
These funds will be officially distributed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and
Consumer Affairs in St. Vincent. Thank you to all members of the church for this initiative and collaboration to the Caribbean.”
This
annual fund raising event is through the efforts of Anne and David Bovill, and the active support of the youth members of the church.
SVG Consul Receives Award at Stormont Parliament
21 May 2011: Belfast, NORTHERN IRELAND: In commemoration
of the United Nation’s International Year for People of African
Descent: Recognition, Justice and Development and Africa
Week 2011, the African-Caribbean Community Support
Organisation for Northern Ireland (ACSONI) launched its
African and Caribbean Awards at Stormont, the Northern
Ireland Parliament.
These awards are an annual commemoration designed to
recognise outstanding achievements and contribution to the
community. It covers 5 main areas: Education, Music & Arts,
Entrepreneurial & Business, Community & Voluntary Work and
Woman of the Year, that honour individuals, groups,
businesses
and
companies
of
African
or
Caribbean
L-R: Dr. Christopher Stange, Mrs. Anna Lo
background in Northern Ireland.
Work to the African and Caribbean Diaspora in Northern Ireland,
Dr Christopher Stange – Hon. Consul for St. Vincent and the
Grenadines to Northern Ireland and Public Relations Officer for
from Mrs Anna Lo - Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), in
front of a packed audience in the Great Hall.
ACSONI received an award for his Community and Voluntary
High Commission hosts Seminar
on Trade related matters:
On Wednesday 11 May, 2011 the High Commission for St.
Vincent and the Grenadines hosted a mini workshop / seminar.
Participants were drawn from SVG Vincentian Associations;
while others were representative of the pharmaceutical industry
and small business operators. The Objectives of the seminar was
two-fold: To have a targeted group of participants attend this
workshop/seminar
and
to
expose
participants
to
some
technical aspects of trading with St. Vincent.
The presentation focused on non-tariff barriers to trade;
phytosanitary measures and technical barriers to trade. The role
of the Ministry of Trade as it relates to trading activities was
outlined by Facilitator /Presenter – Mrs. Janice King. A detail of
how to conduct trade with SVG was also thoroughly outlined.
The session was a highly interactive one. Generally, this
Mrs. Janice King makes her presentation to the Business owners
workshop provided an outlet for those who have encountered
difficulties when trading with SVG previously. This was welcomed so that these concerns may now be addressed.
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
8
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
Vincentian Sales and Marketing specialist seeks
closer ties with entrepreneurs from homeland SVG
Mr. Linton Williams a former teacher and community worker now permanently residing in the UK
seeks closer ties with entrepreneurs from SVG. He visited the High Commission on 17 January 2011
and held discussions with Minister Counsellor Mrs. Doris Charles. He indicated that his interest was
sparked after a survey revealed that there is a growing niche market for locally manufactured
products from his homeland.
He has already made contact with some selected agro-processors in SVG and supermarket chains
in the UK who appeared to be receptive of these products. However, negotiations are ongoing.
Entrepreneurs should be able to access Mr. Williams’ services in the very near future. The High
Commission continues to place emphasis on the facilitation of trade between SVG and the
European Union. There are however challenges but it is hoped that, with concerted efforts, another
push can be made in the right direction. It is recognised that the manufacturing sector and the
further development of small and medium enterprises will continue to respond to every available
L-R: Mrs. Doris Charles, Mr. Linton Williams
opportunity that presents itself.
For more information please contact the [email protected] or 020 7565 2545
St. Vincent and the Grenadines launched ‘One Laptop Per Child’
initiative
S
tudents at the Calliaqua Anglican
The ‘One Laptop Per Child’ initiative
The netbooks were distributed to students
Primary School got their first lesson
continued with the distribution of net
from Grade two to five in both schools.
on Monday 16 May, on the proper
books to students on the Leeward side of
Teachers also received the laptops.
use
of
the
netbook
computer;
the island and Bequia.
Dr. Jerrol Thompson, who has responsibility
Principal Yvette Bowens explained that
These were distributed by officials of the
for the Goverment’s Telecommunications,
students will learn the proper use of the
Ministry of Education.
Science
computers
before
the
programme
is
incorporated into the school’s curriculum.
HIGH
COMMISSION
and
Technology
programme,
officially handed over the netbooks to the
students. He noted that the schools will be
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
9
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
equipped with wireless Internet to allow
learning and that she anticipated a higher
She noted that the initiative should bring
the students connection.
standard of education throughout St.
the students of this nation on par with
Students of the Bequia Anglican, Paget
Vincent and the Grenadines.
those of developed countries, in their
Farm, Bequia Seventh Day Adventist and
Students at the Calliaqua Anglican Primary
ability to use and access information on
the
Schools
School were expected to begin the use of
the computer for use during class sessions.
became the first in the Grenadine islands
their netbooks after students from Grades
to receive their netbooks on Wednesday,
two to five received their computers on
The distribution phase of the project
May 18.
Friday, May 20.
began in April and as of Monday 23, it was
Mardge Hazell, Principal of the Bequia
Yvette Bowens, Principal of the Calliaqua
expected that all students of primary
Anglican Primary School, said that she
Anglican Primary School, thanked the
schools
hoped the computers will motivate the
Government for the foresight to implement
constituency would have received their
students to become more interested in
the programme.
laptops.
Bequia
Paradise
Primary
in
the
North
Windward
FORMER MP, RENE BAPTISTE, RECEIVES C.M.G
AWARD
F
ormer Parliamentarian and lawyer, René Baptiste, was recently invested with the
Ribbon & Badge of the Order of St. Michael and St. George with rank of C.M.G. at an
Investiture Ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
Miss Baptiste was given the honour in the New Year’s Honours List 2011 of H.M. The Queen. She
is reputed to be the only person to be honoured with the C.M.G. in Commonwealth
Caribbean in 2011. She received the C.M.G. for her contribution to international finance, law,
culture and politics.
While in London, she was the guest of the Royal Commonwealth Society at the Dinner
Roundtable of the Commonwealth Journal of International Relations. The Roundtable
featured the Nigeria Elections of 2011.
She retired from competitive politics in December 2010 when she did not seek re-election at
the General Elections. Miss Baptiste has returned to private practice. She was appointed as an
International Election Observer by the Commonwealth Secretariat to observe the Nigerian
2011Elections.
She was also recently honoured at home by the S.V.G Indian Heritage to mark the 150th
Anniversary of Indian Arrival to these shores.
A Press Release by Baptiste & Co. Law Firm Inc.
PASTOR
DERMOTH
BAPTISTE
RECEIVES O.B.E AWARD
A
lso at Buckingham Palace to receive his award
was Pastor Demoth Baptiste. On June 22nd this
year, Pastor Dermoth accompanied by family
members, attended Buckingham Palace where he
was invested with the title of Order of the British Empire (OBE)
for his service to Christian fellowship and community work.
Whilst in the UK Pastor Dermoth and his wife visited the High
Commission for St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
He was
received by H.E. Cenio Lewis and Mrs. Doris Charles. Other
members of staff also greeted and extend congratulations to
Pastor Baptiste on the occasion of his investiture.
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
Pastor Dermoth Baptiste (left) receives his ribbon & badge of OBE,
pinned by Prince Charles (right)
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
10
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
MEET A VINCY – JUDY BOUCHER
S
he describes herself as "an ordinary
driving home and decided to use it
country girl" from Georgetown in St
as her exercise tune. The UK public
Vincent and the Grenadines. Her
began enquiring about it. Judy's
interest in music started at an early age,
producer released it to satisfy the
listening to the radio and hearing The
demand and gave Judy her first
Beatles, Sam Cooke, Percy Sledge plus
national entry, it hit no 1 in the mid
Calypso and Reggae from the other
week charting, but remained at no 2
islands. Her music career took a giant step
for eight weeks in the UK and hit also
circa 1970, having now relocated to High
in
Wycombe England and being recruited by
Greece and Spain. Her Belgian tour
her musician brother Bruce for his band,
remains one of the highlights of her
which they called JUDY JACK AND THE
career: it was quite momentous. At
BEANSTALK.
an appearance at one stadium,
JJ and the Beanstalk was mainly a covers
there
band, concentrating on the music of the
lighted
sixties, an era that proved quite popular
BOUCHER" as she sang.
with the locals. The band was very much in
A surprise call came from SOUTH
demand
AFRICA informing her also of a
and
was
often
playing
at
Holland,
were
Switzerland,
40,000
candles
France,
people
chanting
with
"JUDY
weddings, youth clubs, pubs and local
massive hit.
dances. After ten years together, Judy's
She took up the invitation to visit but,
brother found love, got married and
for
campaign.
due to the boycott at the time, was unable
moved away, causing the demise of JJ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qUust
to perform. However, she was asked to tour
and the Beanstalk. The band breaking up,
j-HG4&feature=related
Swaziland, Namibia and several other
although it was a hobby, had quite an
The follow up single, Lovely Paradise gave
African countries, appearing on TV, Radio
effect on Judy. So much so that she gave
Judy her second consecutive hit. The
and clubs.
up the music to concentrate on her family.
invitation to tour was coming from allover
The
FELIX DA SILVA, a local songwriter who was
as people started to ask about Judy
people
in a rival band at the time of JJ and the
Boucher. An album containing the two
descriptions - animals, gold, cloth etc. In
Beanstalk, wanted a singer for several
tracks was released. That album, Can't Be
recognition of her achievements, Judy was
songs he'd written and had targeted Judy,
With
You
invited by the Government of St Vincent as
but she wasn't interested. Several years
Tonight http://www.youtube.com/watch?v
their special guest of honor and is truly an
went by and Felix decides that he would
=8a672NMt5jg&feature=more_related
Ambassador for her country.
try again.........
would change the 'ordinary country girl' to
The follow up single, You Caught My Eye
Judy relented and recorded several songs,
an International Entertainer by the end of
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMgm
including Dreaming Of A Little Island, the
1987 The story goes like this: a DJ on an
JlSqn6g gave Judy another national hit,
first single that catapulted to the no 1 slot in
early morning show on a London radio
and a tour of the Middle East countries,
the Reggae Charts in 1985 for several
station started playing the title track on a
including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 1988-89
weeks and was subsequently used by the
regular basis. Lizzy Webb TV's exercise
Judy again decided to take a break and
Jamaica Tourist Board as the theme tune
queen at the time heard the song while
then returning late 1989 with a change of
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
their
SAINT
advertising
VINCENT
AND
THE
response
turning
was
up
overwhelming, with
with
GRENADINES
gifts
of
all
11
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
record company and producer.
she is particularly proud of, and, being
a keen gardener, she is very much at
The multi-talented LINDEL LEWIS, 'the
home in her patch. She's come a long
gentle giant' of KUFE RECORDS Judy's
music
minder
(who
way in what can be a fickle business
incidentally
and doubly hard for a female. Her
arranged her hits) has kept her career
achievements are immense - how
moving and at the same time very
many singers can talk of being in the
down to earth. Due to demand, the
presence of Kings and Queens - not
album Almost Certainly was recorded
specifically
for
Africa,
where
many.
her
following has increased full fold.1990
JUDY BOUCHER remains on top in her
onwards has seen the release of
career and is one of the top recording
several singles - those being Sweet
Dreams,
artists in the UK. She holds the record
I’ll Be Loving You and Make
for being the first female from the
Your Choice. The years 1992-93 saw
Caribbean to have the longest stay in
Judy recording in South Africa for the
the national charts with an amazing
first time, the result of which the
fourteen weeks in 1987. A recent
album Tears On My Pillow came and,
invitation to the first ST LUCIA COUNTRY
again making Judy the first Caribbean
MUSIC FESTIVAL saw her performing
female to have recorded and released
in
that
releases
territory.
The
More
Than
Just
am saw Judy graduating to an 'album'
artist with the occasional single release. '96
Judy was on location in Jamaica for the
recording
of Everybody's
Talking
'bout The Good Thing, (taken from the
album Take Me As I Am) which has
The year also when the single Make Your
Choice entered the reggae charts and
gave Judy yet another hit.
The touring continues as we head towards
the Millennium and ' 98 has seen two
albums from Judy...... Take Your Memory
With You and Just The Two Of Us, the latter
released in tandem with TIM CHANDELL.
Judy Boucher is Reggae, R&B and Country,
real raw adult orientated music. Over the
HIGH
COMMISSION
giants
of
TAMMY
country,
DON
WYNETTE
and
CONNIE SMITH amongst them. 1998
years, Judy has had the pleasure of
finds Can't Be with You Tonight and Mr
recording duets with various male vocalists
Dream
that have become a feature with each
NICARAGUA!!
album. These men WINSTON FRANCIS,
"My songs are reality, songs that take the
VISCOUNT OLIVER and MARK WATERFIELD
average
to name a few have expressed the joy in
emotions, no matter who you are. There is
singing with Judy.
that song that instantly transports us back in
become one of the most played in South
Africa.
the
WILLIAMS,
A
Friend, Devoted To You and Take Me As I
video
with
subsequent
Maker
person
on
the
through
playlist
the
in
different
time, or takes us Out of ourselves". Herself
The songs, as ever, are carefully chosen to
an aspiring songwriter, Judy, now more
get that special bit of magic she always
than ever, is very much focused on
injects especially with those oldies we all
quenching the thirst for real authentic
love. On her success, Judy says, " I must
songs. 2010 tours including: Canada South
admit it was a sudden transformation from
Africa, Barbados, St Vincent Grenada, St
being an ordinary country girl who got
Lucia and Pa, s in the UK.
drafted to sing in her brother's band to
Judy is in the process of writing her
jetting all over the world.... before that, I
autobiography which will be released later
had
this year. ***
only
been
on
a
day
trip
to
France...mind you, I soon got used to it".
With all the touring and other business,
Judy has managed to raise a family which
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
12
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
The Immigration Desk
UK launched consultation for breaking the link between
temporary and permanent migration
O
n the 9th of June the UK
Government set out proposals for
breaking
the
link
between
temporary and permanent migration.
They launched a consultation on proposals
to break the link between temporary
employment-related
migration
and
settlement, as well as reforms to Tier 5, and
overseas domestic worker routes. The UK
Immigration Minister Damian Green set out
proposals to re-classify visas as either
‘temporary’ or ‘permanent’ and introduce
stricter criteria for those who want to stay.
The
UK
Government
has
already
implemented new settlement requirements
for skilled workers entering under Tiers 1 and
2 of the points-based system, which require
applicants
to
demonstrate
Englishlanguage proficiency, continue to meet
the salary requirements and to pass a new
criminality test. The consultation will also
look at the overseas domestic workers
routes.
Tier 2 migrants applying to switch into
a route to settlement.
Key proposals under consideration in the 12
week consultation are as follows:
•
Re-branding Tier 2 (the skilled worker
route) as temporary, ending the
assumption that settlement will be
available for those who enter on this
route.
•
Allowing certain categories of Tier 2
migrant, for example those earning
over £150,000 or occupations of a
specific economic or social value to
the UK, to retain an automatic route
to settlement.
•
Creating a new category into which,
after three years in the UK, the most
exceptional Tier 2 migrants may switch
and go on to apply for settlement.
•
Allowing Tier 2 migrants who do not
switch into a settlement route to stay
for a maximum of five years with the
expectation that they and any
dependants will leave at the end of
that time.
•
Introducing an English language
requirement for adult dependants of
•
Restricting the maximum period of
leave for Tier 5 Temporary Workers to
12 months.
•
Closing or reforming routes
overseas domestic workers.
for
Damian Green said, “A small number of
exceptional migrants will be able to stay
permanently, but for the majority coming
to the UK to work will not lead
automatically to settlement.”
The UK Government has committed to
reforming all routes of entry to the UK in
order to bring immigration levels under
control. The settlement reforms will work
alongside the annual limit, the new student
visa reforms and changes to the family
route planned for later this year.
To see the consultation document and
details on how to respond, please visit the
UK
Border
Agency
website
.
UKBA to get tough on NHS Debtors
I
t is expected that in October this year
the UK Boarder Agency will introduce
measures that they believe will curb
what they refer to as ‘medical/health
tourism’. In 2009 the British Government
embarked on a consultation on matters
relating to the NHS. At the time it was
suggested that foreign national visitors who
had used the services of the NHS and
deferred on payment, could be refused
entry/stay in the UK.
After
the
British
Government’s
consideration of the responses to the
consultations, the UK Boarder Agency
(UKBA) and the Department of Health
issued a press release which states
‘...Anyone owing the NHS £1,000 or more
will not be allowed to enter or remain in the
UK until the debt is paid off... To enforce this
action, the NHS will provide information
enabling the UK Border Agency to identify
the debtors when they apply to return to or
remain in the UK.’
The SVG High Commission therefore wishes
to remind Nationals that NHS treatment is
free to people who reside lawfully in the UK.
Persons who regularly live outside the UK
and does not meet the exemption rules will
have to pay for treatment. This is regardless
of whether you are a British citizen or have
lived or worked here in the past or have
been issued with an HC2 certificate. It is
suggested that visitors to the UK consider
ensure that they have adequate health
insurance before travelling to the UK.
The full UKBA Press Release can be found
at:http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitec
ontent/newsarticles/2011/march/51getting-tough-on-nhs-debtors
A Vincy Recipe – Stuffed breadfruit
1
¼
½
½
½
½
½
Medium roasted breadfruit
codfish cooked and cleansed
cup onion diced
sweet pepper diced
cup tomato diced
cup chive, chopped
cup cooking oil
Method:
Cut off the top of roast breadfruit. Scoop out
the flesh and core to about 1 inch away from
skin, leaving it hollow inside.
Cut a piece
from the bottom to create a flat area so teh
breadfruit can stand. Reserve flesh and discard
core.
Sauté codfish, onions, sweet pepper,
chives, tomato, corn and hot sauce (optional) in
oil. Add breadfruit and leave to simmer. Place
the mixture into the hollowed breadfruit and
garnish with paprika.
Source: Breadfruit Recipes of St. Vincent and the Grenadines
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
13
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Just another day in paradise
In the necklace of islands that make up St Vincent and the Grenadines, picturepostcard beaches and encounters with turtles are simply part of life
By Matthew Bell
It was the turtles. They were what
turned me. I had never been much of
an underwater kind of person – air is
what I like to breathe, not seawater.
that looked like brains; some that
came straight at you, grinning;
others that swayed in rhythmic
shoals. I did try to learn their
names on the boat out, but gave
up on trying to tell a "Secretary
Blenny" from a "Sergeant Major". I
needed to take the book down
with me, but they wouldn't let me.
I think I made out the "boring
coral", the official name for the
bits that don't look like a Lady
Gaga headpiece.
If anyone suggested snorkelling on
holiday, I tended to smile vaguely and
look the other way. I've always hated
that moment when you sink into the
water, weighed down by Timmy Mallettsize fins, feeling like you're going to
drown. I disliked the snappy little mask
vacuum-packing your eyes, and water
drip-dripping into your nostrils while you
tried to empty the breathing pipe. No
thanks. But suddenly, it all made sense.
It was worth it. Because there I was, on
a Tuesday lunchtime, swimming with
turtles.
Tobago Cays is no secret among
the yacht set, who like to moor up
Bay of light: Port Elizabeth, Bequia's pretty principal town
in the shallow water between its
five rocks, creating a sort of
called Hairoun, meaning "land of the blessed".
floating millionaire's car park. One Christmas
Today, those in the know call the necklace of
Day, someone counted 177 boats here. On
32 rocks draped along the eastern fringe of
one morning, I, too, felt like a yachtie: the
the Caribbean "SVG".
That's a sentence I now want to write every
previous night I had shared a few rum
December. Why didn't anybody mention how
punches with a Canadian couple named Rory
simple it all is? Legs back, face down and,
I met the turtle in Tobago Cays. This is an
and Lisa. I spotted them across the water. We
serenely, you float on the surface. The fins
archipelago of five uninhabited rocks halfway
hollered to each other as our boats passed.
miraculously buoy you up, instead of pulling
down the chain; it has nothing to do with
OK, so theirs was a fully crewed 60-footer,
you down. And there, just an arm's length
Tobago, the island off Trinidad. Until 1997 it
mine a day-trip catamaran. But that, reader, is
away: a beautiful 200-year-old hawksbill.
was privately owned, but the government
the good news about SVG. To enjoy these
Greyish green, he was about the size of a
bought it back and turned it into a National
islands, you need not wear pink shorts and call
coffee table, a square bald head on a leathery
Marine Park. In 2005 turtles started
yourself a sailor. A network of ferries and light
neck. A bit like a headmaster I once knew.
congregating here. Nobody really knows why.
aircraft makes it possible for landlubbers to
Perhaps they wanted to catch a glimpse of
hop about, truffling out your particular
Johnny Depp and Keira Knightley, who filmed
favourite.
Actually, he can't have been 200 years old,
Pirates of the Caribbean here. We certainly
despite what Orton King, the turtle expert,
did, all dutifully taking our cameras out as we
said. I checked afterwards – the oldest turtle
I started with a half-hour flight from Barbados
sailed past Petit Tabac, a Robinson Crusoe-size
ever recorded lived to 188. But they are
to the biggest island, St Vincent. It's the
mound, where Jack Sparrow was apparently
extraordinary
creatures:
unlike
my
commercial hub of SVG, a working island most
marooned. (Never seen the film, myself.)
headmaster, they can change sex, and lay
tourists hurry through in search of that
eggs on the beach.
paradise beach. True, banana plantations, not
The one thing I knew about the Caribbean
piña coladas, are the main source of revenue
before arriving was that the sea is 1,000
here. But if you have time, St Vincent offers
The only rule of snorkelling with turtles is that
shades of blue. I left Gatwick with the travel
the most authentic insight into the local
you don't touch. But protocol doesn't dictate
editor's words ringing in my ear: "You're
culture.
how long you spend with each turtle. I think I
banned from using the word 'azure'." Well, in
overstayed my welcome with him. I had been
Tobago Cays, the water is an electric green,
stalking him for nearly 15 minutes and, to be
I spent a night in the capital, Kingstown. It's
like shining a torch through a Fortnum and
fair, he was eating his lunch. I had already had
an attractive and busy port, laid out like
Mason bag. Scientists say the luminosity is
mine, a buffet on board the catamaran off
Naples, around a bay, with a shark's jaw of
thanks to shallow water over a white sandy
which I had just plopped. I had chosen
spiky hills behind. Last Monday was SVG's
seabed, which reflects the sunlight. And boy, is
swordfish in a sweet Caribbean marinade, a
general-election day, and the capital was
it
beautiful,
even
if
the
sky
didn't
live
up
to
its
little coleslaw on the side. He was having the
festooned with campaign posters. "We naaah
side of the bargain, being 1,000 shades of
algae, just a few tufts sprouting off the
tun back", was the Red Party slogan;
cloudy.
seabed. Nothing fancy.
"Enough!" retorted the Yellows. (The Reds
won.)
Explorers say the last place on earth to be
But then it happened. He stopped, turned and
discovered will be the bottom of the sea. Now
fixed me with a withering look, before paddling
There's been a fighting spirit here for years.
I know what they mean. There is a whole
away. It's a sight I shall never forget. He really
The island resisted colonisation longer than
other
world
down
there,
so
teeming
with
was that headmaster. Except this wasn't an
many in the West Indies, and the British and
weird, colourful creatures, it looked like the set
Oxford school room; this was St Vincent and
French spent much of the 18th century
of Finding Nemo. Here were parrotfish and
the Grenadines, and a more exotic place it
quarrelling over it before it eventually came
squirrelfish; striped fish and spotted fish; fish
would be hard to imagine. St Vincent was once
under British rule. Grenadine House, where I
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
14
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
stayed, used to be the British administrator's
house, and is all white verandas and wicker.
Today it's been swallowed up by suburban
sprawl, but being high up, the terrace makes a
good spot for watching boats to-ing and froing in the harbour.
I was at the mercy of the inter-island ferry
timetable, and had time only for a midnight
swim in the pool and a few hours' sleep before
catching the boat to my next island. But I
didn't leave without learning my first local
phrase. Standing half-heartedly in line on the
dock, I felt a man push past. "Hey," I said.
"I'm in the queue." "Sorry, man," he said, "I
thought you was just breezin'." I did a
lot of breezin' after that.
Nine miles across the water, Mustique's profile
crowns the horizon. It's a useful reminder of
the thousands of pounds you're saving every
time you wonder whether to order another
rum punch. Everything here is at least twothirds cheaper than on the island across the
water that has hosted Mick Jagger, Princess
Margaret and David Bowie (though not all at
the same time, or at any rate in the same
room).
Bequia gets a share of celebrities: Jude Law
was here at New Year, and Rachel Weiss
sashayed across the beach the other day. They
weren't the first, though: former British Prime
After Barbados, which is mainly flat, and
St Vincent, which is largely hilly, you
find the Grenadines are emphatically
one or the other. I headed for Bequia,
pronounced Beck-way, which is very
much of the up-and-down sort, a ridge
of hills running through the middle. It's
like a small version of St Vincent –
authentic, but not so hectic.
I had been here before. Not in person,
but in my childhood dreams, because
there used to be a framed photo of
Bequia on my bedroom wall. It was a
present from a St Vincentian (or Vincy,
as they say) friend of my mum; the
frame had real sand on it. But what I
liked most about it was that it wasn't
how you would expect a souvenir photo
from the Caribbean to be, all coconut
trees and Bounty-bar blue. Instead, it
showed a small harbour, a beaten-up
trawler and an old wooden jetty. So I
knew what to expect as the ferry pulled
into the perfect half-moon bay of Port
Elizabeth, Bequia's principal – and only
– town. I couldn't spot the trawler, and
the jetty looked bigger, but what the
photo had accurately captured was an
atmosphere of shabby calm, a world
ticking along at half-speed.
By now I had been travelling for a day
and a half since leaving snowy Gatwick
(about four hours after the airport
reopened). All I wanted was to splosh into the
water that demanded to be called "azure". The
culture could wait – I wanted that Bounty-bar
beach. So I headed to the Bequia Beach Hotel,
a 10-minute drive away, which promised a
sheltered sandy beach (and an infinity pool,
just in case).
There are plenty of beautiful beaches on this
island, but surprisingly few hotels. It's
something the Swedish owners of the Bequia
Beach Hotel hope to capitalise upon, by
expanding their existing 23-room hotel into a
low-key resort – a mixture of seafront suites
and private villas. The location is superb, bang
in the middle of yet another half-moon bay,
Friendship Bay, on the opposite side of the
island.
HIGH
COMMISSION
of the island with Garvin, a poetic local guide.
It was a leisurely drive through palm trees and
plantains, the occasional burst of red
bougainvillea cascading on to the road. The
island measures only seven square miles, he
told me, and has 6,000 inhabitants. He showed
me the rows of rainbow-coloured boats, back
from catching fish to sell to Martinique. Many
of them are run by members of his family, the
Ollivieres. We passed the old coconut-oil
factory, closed after the last government
decided coconut oil was too high in cholesterol
for the people.
The biggest excitement on Bequia are the
whales: every year the island is
allowed to catch four, which they
hand-spear from tiny fishing boats
using wooden harpoons, and haul on
to a designated platform in the
middle of Friendship Bay. On the day
of a catch, everyone stops what
they're doing and rushes to the water
to party. "If they caught one today, I
would not be showing you around,"
said Garvin candidly. Despite such
evident local enthusiasm, there have
been calls for a tourism boycott from
opponents of whaling.
At the whaling museum, Garvin
showed me a picture of his ancestor,
Athneal The Greatest Whaler. He
Bequia
earned his title because he once
caught a whale straight in the heart,
with a thrust of his spear. But Garvin
says he is not brave enough to follow
in his footsteps. "I would have to
change my heart first," he said.
Godahl Beach - Canouan
Minister Anthony Eden had a hideaway villa
next door to the hotel, which is now available
to rent.
My next hop was not for the fainthearted. By now I was ready for the
ultimate desert island, where the only
commerce would be the sale of
seashells on the seashore. So I
headed for Palm Island, a privately
owned resort. To get there, first you
take a light aircraft to Union Island,
where the wafer-thin landing strip is
sandwiched between the sea and a
mountain. With only eight seats,
everyone gets a good view, especially
of the beads of sweat on the pilot's
neck as you aim for the mountaintop, before a
swoop down to the water.
The resort itself is not quite finished: a second
showpiece
swimming
pool
is
under
construction and builders saunter around the
grounds. But the standards are high. My room
was cleverly tiered, so I could see the sea from
the pillow in the mornings. The bed was so
wide it could have merrily fit Pop and Ma
Larkin, and all the Darling Buds of May. For
more private families, each suite has a
separate child's room.
Minutes later, an open launch was thrusting
me across a scudding sea to Palm Island. This
could be the one, I thought, eyeing up the
slash of white beach and king-size hammocks
swinging in the distance. And Palm Island is
certainly small: 135 acres to be precise, 135
football fields to be approximate. There are no
roads or cars, and you can cycle round it in 20
minutes. It's the kind of place you might want
to see out your days. Perhaps that's why it
used to be called Prune Island.
After swimming, and a spot of breezin', it was
still too early for rum punch. So I took a tour
The name was changed by John Caldwell, a
Texan sailor, when he bought a lease on the
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
15
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
island in 1966 for £1 a year. In those days, like
Mustique, the island was just a swamp, so he
dredged it and planted hundreds of palm
trees, discreetly hiding bungalows among
them. Now, there are 43 suites, two
restaurants and a spa. It is very much a
resort-only island – there is no indigenous
population. The clientele are of a genteel age,
and the décor is very comfortable, if, like the
guests, a little dated. But it's the sense of
space that thrills – not just in the rooms, which
are private and absurdly big, but across the
island. Even when the resort is at full capacity,
it feels empty.
Travel essentials St Vincent and the
Grenadines
Island; based on 26 April- 28 June and 18
August-10 December 2011 travel.
Getting there
The thing about Palm Island is that they like
you to stay for at least a week. Who's
complaining? If you get bored, there's a spa,
swimming pool, library, gym, games room, an
attempt at a nine-hole golf course and a bar
that doesn't close until the last man leaves.
And of course there's always the snorkelling.
That's not a sentence I ever thought I would
write. But then, I had never been swimming
with turtles before.
* W&O Travel tailors full itineraries around
SVG (0845 277 3300; WandOtravel.com). A
five-night tour of St Vincent and the
Grenadines starts at £1,739 per person,
including international flights and all interisland transfers and connections. Also included
is one night's accommodation with breakfast at
Grenadine House, two nights' accommodation
with breakfast at Bequia Beach Hotel and two
nights' all-inclusive accommodation on Palm
Staying there
* Grenadine House Hotel, Kingstown, St
Vincent
(001
784
458
1800;
grenadinehouse.com).
Doubles
start
at
US$180 (£120), including breakfast.
* Bequia Beach Hotel, Friendship Bay, Bequia
(001 784 458 1600; bequiabeach.com).
Doubles start at US$180 (£120), including
breakfast.
* Palm Island Resort (001 245 459 906;
palmislandresortgrenadines.com).
Doubles
start at US$935 (£623), all inclusive.
* There are no direct flights between the UK
and St Vincent and the Grenadines. The writer
flew from Gatwick to Barbados with British
Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com), and from
Barbados to St Vincent with Liat (001 268 480
5601; liatairline.com). Virgin Atlantic (0844
209 7777; flyvirgin.com) also flies from
Gatwick to Barbados.
More information
* St Vincent and the Grenadines Tourist Office:
www.discoversvg.com.
The Goring Hotel recreates
Basil’s Bar:
T
he Goring hotel which played host to Kate Middleton on the
night before her wedding to Prince William has recreated the
Middleton’s favourite Caribbean Bar in its garden.
On May 7th, the Middletons all turned up at the Goring Hotel in
Victoria to mark the opening of Basil's Bar - a replica of what is
refered to as "greatest bar in the world" on the private island of
Mustique.
Kate and Prince William are said to have taken a dozen trips to
the island, which is popular with celebrities because paparazzi are
banned.
William is said to have given a rendition of Elvis Presley's Suspicious
Minds at the bar in 2009.
Above – Basil’s Bar in Mustique
Below – Goring’s Hotel’s recreation of Basil’s Bar
Its patron, Basil Charles, 64, known as the "king of Mustique", was in
London for the launch, and is training the hotel's staff to make his
signature cocktails, including the Mustique Mule.
Some 84 tons of sand has been laid in the garden, while a bar
with a driftwood counter was made by Tunbridge Wells designers
Blue Forest. Three fishing boats add to the atmosphere.
Simon Payne, a director of Blue Forest, said: "We were lucky
enough to be at the launch party last night. It's something you
can't really imagine - a beach in the middle of central London,
and especially at the Goring Hotel.
"We got to meet Basil Charles. He said it was almost a spitting
image of the bar he had started with”.
Basil Charles, who has entertained VIPs from Princess Margaret to
Carla Bruni and Kate Moss to Mick Jagger, will be in London for
several weeks. The bar can be used by non-residents and will stay
open until September.
Around 300 guests, who received invitations written on flip-flops,
attended the opening, including Christopher Biggins and Christine
Hamilton.
She tweeted that "some people sure know how 2 party" but admitted
there were also downsides to a beach bar: "Beach parties all very well
but now got sand in every little crevice."
Source: The Evening Standard
Persons who travelled from SVG to attend the Royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton included the Governor General H.E. Sir
Frederick Ballantyne and Lady Ballantyne, PM Ralph Gonsalves and Mrs. Gonsalves , members of the Mustique company: Brian Alexander (MD),
Mr Basil Charles - Mustique bar owner, Ms Jeanette Cadet - head of rentals and Mr Roger Pritchard (MD). H.E. Cenio Lewis, High
Commissioner, also attended the wedding.
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
16
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
Liverpool FC Academy Team Tour to Buccament Bay Resort
Photo - left: Match against St. Vincent Under 20’s team
Photo right: Coaching session at Buccament Bay resort for the local children
I
n May 2011 the LFC Under-18’s Academy Team stayed for a week at Buccament Bay Resort for their end of season tour.
The team played an exhibition match against the St Vincent Under-20’s National Team at the island’s Arnos Vale Stadium, visited local schools and
provided coaching sessions for the local children at the resort.
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
17
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
V I N C Y
M A S
2 0 1 1
Miss Carival 2011 won by miss St. Kitts & Nevis, Iantavian Queeley
Maxwell "Tajoe" Francis has won his first National
Soca Monarch
Calypso Monarch crown.
Won by Fireman’ Hooper
Category
Country
Contestant
Event
1st
2nd
Calypso
Monarch
Maxwell “Tajoe”
Francis
Shernelle ‘Skarpyon’
Williams
Best Interview
Miss Anguilla
Shellya Rogers
2nd Runner-up
Miss Anguilla
Shellya Rogers
Soca Monarch
Delroy ‘Fireman’
Hooper
Potential Steel
Orchestra
Gamal ‘Skinny
Fabulous’ Doyle
Starlift Steel
Orchestra
1st Runner-up
Miss St. Vincent and the
Grenadines
Aviar Charles
Senior
Panorama
Miss St. Kitts and Nevis
Miss Carival 2011
V I N C Y
M A S
Iantavian Queeley
U K
Thanks to St Vincent Tourist Board in the UK
Once again we will be playing Mas in NottingHill Carnival in Full
costume and FunMas
there will be a lot more than last year
We own Trucks
Vincy Djs Digga D,, Dr Freeze,, AllisMaddness + guest Djs
Skinny Fabulous more TBA
Costumes
3 costumes straight from St Vincent's
Lightening ,, Tsunami ,, Snow Storm
Package Price: £175
Early Bird Price:£125 this price wont last long
FUNMAS
Costume Shorts, one of 3 tops to choose from, and Beret
Package Price: £75 [sorry but no t-shirt section]
Your All inclusive package includes
* Costume
* A mobile bar with premium drinks (were try and sneak some
SUNSET )
* Lunch, breakfast and snacks during the day(Tri-Tri cakes)
an more
* Ample Security z
* DJs
* Live PA's * Mug
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
2012 Olympic Open Weekend Event
“one year to go”!
A
s part of the Cultural Olympiad Open Weekend celebrations, the Wycombe
Community Festival will take place on Saturday 23rd July from 1pm-7pm,
on the Rye, London Road, High Wycombe.
The event is a free family fun day for anyone to attend and enjoy the vibrant
performances, colourful parades and learn about a variety of activities
happening within the area. An international day in welcoming the world
through the sharing, and participation of cultural celebrations will be enjoyed.
Carnival Mas bands will parade throughout the day charming the audience and
give inspiration to the community for the carnival project launching this
Autumn.
The theme of “one year to go” the public attending will be encouraged to take
part in trying out the many sporting activities on the day. There will be many
sports clubs from the District offering taster sessions for free. The event will
also provide a platform to showcase local young musical talent, with
performances by visiting professional artists. It will be a day of celebration,
celebrating all cultures that make up Buckinghamshire. The day will also
include local creative artists and students displaying their crafts and artwork.
The activities planned will encourage the community to take part in dancing,
sporting activities, and generally celebrating our diverse culture.
All proceeds made on the day will go towards a new legacy
project endorsed by Sir Steve Redgrave. It will provide people
throughout Buckinghamshire with the opportunity to try a large
variety of Olympic and Paralympic sports within local clubs and
facilities. The project has been recognised by the London 2012
Olympic committee, which has granted it the 2012 Inspire Mark
status.
If you would like to get involved please contact the following;
Sporting Activities: James Cavalier - WDC Sports Development
Team Leader: 01494 421870 or [email protected]
Main Stage performances: Jacqueline - Producer
07967 296789 or [email protected]
Stall Holders: To book space please contact: Chris or Jess or Beth
SV2G Office: 01494 436 269 or [email protected]
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES
Issue 8 – June 2011
THE vincy
St. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
LAND OF The BLESSED
Latest Photos from Buccament Bay Resort – St. Vincent and the Grenadines
HIGH
COMMISSION
FOR
SAINT
VINCENT
AND
THE
GRENADINES