Delice (left) says this picture is being circulated on social media by persons claiming that he and his friend (left) killed ‘Cosol’ (centre)

(SNO) – One of the men who was held by police then released without charge in connection with the shooting death of prominent taxi and tour operator Nereus ‘Cosol’ Francis’, has told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) in an exclusive interview on Friday, July 27 that persons are trying to frame him.

Maulings Delice, 31, of Cacao, Babonneau, said the rumours began shortly after Francis, who operated Cosol St. Lucia Tours, was killed. Since then he has been receiving death threats.

“I can’t tell exactly when the rumours started but I heard it about three or four days after the man’s death,” Delice said.

“I know nothing about this man’s death,” he added.

Francis

“I wish to know who’s saying such about me cause I will surely take them to court, because right now, my pic is all over the media saying I am the murderer in this man’s death. I wish my name could positively be cleared out of this because it doesn’t look good to my face.”

Police said in a press release that they discovered Francis, who appeared to be “lifeless”, beneath his taxi-registered Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, on the La Feuillet, Gros Islet road minutes before 11 p.m. on Monday, July 9, 2018

Medical assistance was sought and Francis was pronounced dead at Victoria Hospital, police said.

The 51-year-old, who was a resident of La Retraite, Gros Islet but originally from La Guerre, Babonneau, sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the chest, according to the post-mortem.

His death shocked the nation, particularly people involved in the tourism industry. His award-winning Cosol Tours was arguably the leading tour and taxi business on the entire island.

So when news surfaced yesterday (July 26) that three young men were in custody in connection with his killing, many felt relieved. However, this was short-lived when our newsroom revealed that all the alleged suspects were released without charge.

Delice was one of the persons who was arrested.

He told SNO that his friend was arrested on Monday morning (July 23), about 6 in the morning, and he (Delice) turned myself in the same Monday morning, between 9:30 a.m.  and 10 a.m.

Delice explained: “Me and another friend of mine was arrested. I heard people saying three was arrested. I’m not sure if a third body was arrested. I know nothing about the third person or if it’s true. My friend was arrested, and I brought myself in because a warrant was left by my mother for me, and as soon as I got it, I went to the police.

Both men were held at different police stations: Delice at Babonneau and his friend at Custody Suites. Delice said he was released on Thursday morning while his friend was released on Wednesday night.

A law enforcement source told SNO that the suspects were released due to lack of evidence. The source added that the men had good alibis.

Delice

Delice said he was confident he was nowhere near the scene the night Francis was shot and he is totally innocent of the allegations.

“I didn’t kill the man, and I have no reason to kill the man. I never had any affiliations with the man. I never had anything with the man. My girlfriend’s entire household could tell I was at home the night and time that happened,” he said.

Delice said this is the second time he is being accused of killing someone and he believes he is being set up for destruction by someone or a group of people. He also accused some police officers of trying to pin crimes on him.

“That is the second time people accusing me of killing someone. I was arrested the same way the last time and nothing for that. Even police officers are telling people that I am the killer, but I know to myself that I have no involvement in this.

“If the police can’t hold the criminal, is not me that is innocent they will be able to sink for this. I strongly believe is someone who really hates me for what reason I don’t know, or very jealous of me, that is doing me such because they been doing me all kinds of stupidity on social media, like spreading my pic and name saying I have aids and calling me the biggest thief in Saint Lucia. But they always do it with a fake profile.”

Delice

Our newsroom asked Delice “why would people try to frame you, are you a member of a gang?”

He responded: “I am not in any gang. I have friends but I can’t tell them what to do. People do as they please. I could only caution them, but I can’t tell them what to do.”

Despite his plea of innocence for the shooting of the taxi man, Delice admitted that his past was not perfect.

In 2010, he was shot by police moments after shooting someone. He said this incident occurred “on the road leading to Forestierre”.

“Listen to me, I once was involved in a dispute with some people in 2010 where I shot someone and police shot me at the same time. It was the morning of Hurricane Tomas. I fired a few shots at some guys, and a female got shot in her buttocks. But all this was resolved, and everything was good after.

“[I got shot] a little above my left knee, and my leg is disabled from then. I do walk with a walking stick, and I can’t move any of my toes on that foot, neither can I move my ankle.”

Delice said he is the father of two children — for two different women — a son who is two years and two months, and a baby girl, who turned two months today (July 27).

He said he is unemployed but he is taken care of by his girlfriend.

“I do drive a luxury vehicle, but little that people know, it’s my girlfriend’s vehicle. I get full support from my woman. She works and she has a good job,” he said.

Delice hopes this article will clear his name and that of his friend.

“Honestly, I have nothing to hide,” he said.

A law enforcement source told our newsroom that is not uncommon for persons in the community to try to frame persons for crimes they didn’t commit.

“Even though a person has a past it doesn’t mean they commit a crime or continue to commit crimes. For the young men who were in custody I can’t speak for them, but it is known that enemies of persons who have a past usually use this as their venom to get people set up and harmed. We had a case some years back where a woman told a gang that her ex killed their relative and that gang tried to kill her ex. It is not everything you hear about a person you should believe. A lot of innocent people are killed for this reason,” the source said.

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(NATION NEWS) – The third man in the drug case involving the directors of Goddards Enterprises was remanded this afternoon after he failed to secure a surety.

Walter O’Neal Prescod, 55, a sailor, of 107 Emerald Park East, St Philip, had been granted bail in the sum of $450, 000 and his wife spent the afternoon hunting for a surety.

She was unable to secure any and he was remanded to prison until Monday when he will reappear in court.

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Chris Rogers, left, and Charles Herbert, right, exiting the court today after they were granted bail.

(BARBADOS TODAY) – Two directors in Goddard Enterprises Limited were each released today on $400, 000 bail with two sureties following Monday’s drug bust at the Bridgetown Port.

They are 56-year-old Christopher Glenn Rogers, of #27 York Road, Navy Gardens, Christ Church, and 62-year-old Arthur Charles Herbert, the company’s chairman, of Redland Plantation, St George.

The two prominent businessmen, along with a third Goddard Enterprises employee – 55-year-old Walter Oneal Prescod, a sailor, of #107 Emerald Park East, St Philip – are jointly charged with possession, possession with intent to supply, trafficking and importation of 267 lbs or 121.4 kilogrammes of cannabis with an estimated street value of $534,160 on July 23.

The trio was not required to plead to the indictable charge when they appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick in the No.1 District ‘A’ Magistrate’s Court.

However, Herbert was ordered to report to the District ‘F’ Police Station every Wednesday by 10 a.m. and Rogers to the Hastings Police Station every Wednesday by 10 a.m.

The businessmen, who are represented by Andrew Pilgrim, QC, and Kamisha Benjamin, were also ordered to surrender their travel documents. They are to reappear in court on November 6.

In the meantime, Prescod, who is known to the court, was offered bail in the amount of $450,000, but up to the time of publication, he was awaiting a surety to post his bail to which conditions are also to be applied.

He is represented by attorneys-at-law Arthur Holder and Shadia Simpson.

From left: Christopher Rodgers, Charles Herbert and Walter Prescod.

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Scene of the accident and assault at Rivière-Salée on Friday.

(SNO) – Rivière-Salée on Friday night (July 27) in Martinique was the ending scene of a dramatic chain of events that included a shooting, a car chase, and an assault.

According to local media reports, two brothers were dining when a gunman opened fire in their direction, hitting one of the brothers.

The gunman was one of two males who reportedly arrived on a scooter. After the shooting, the assailants sped off, however the victim’s brother jumped in his car and gave chase.

During the chase, the brother admitted to investigators that he used his car and hit the scooter from behind, sending both alleged bandits sprawling on the road. One of them managed to run away, but the other was not so lucky. The brother caught him and dealt him a number of blows while eyewitnesses stood and watched in approval, according to news reports.

When emergency personnel arrived on the scene, the alleged bandit, who is reportedly in his 30s, had sustained facial trauma and was unconscious. He, along with the shooting victim, were hospitalised.

The condition of the shooting victim is currently not known but Martinique 1ere reported that he was “severely affected” and has a “sore elbow”.

The incident occurred near a shopping centre in the community.

The police are investigating.

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Francois-Laurent Verte (right) and his friend are being accused on social media of being involved in the recent upsurge of robberies in Martinique.

(SNO) – Martinique has been rocked by a series of robberies — some violent — over the past weeks and as a result, blame and finger-pointing have become commonplace.

Who are responsible for these robberies?

Saint Lucians and foreign nationals have been blamed for a majority of these robberies. (SEE STORY). However, Saint Lucians are hitting back. A few of them contacted our newsroom over the past two weeks to indicate that the French nationals are the ones to be blamed and not Saint Lucians.

It was therefore no surprise when our newsroom received photos of several Martinique nationals accused of being the serial robbers. These photos are also being circulated via social media in the neighbouring French islands.

Two of the accused – feeling threatened by the bad publicity – met with the media earlier this week.

According to French media reports, the men claimed that they are innocent and the reports are unfounded.

The men reiterated that they have nothing to do with the robberies and the rumours are not only damaging to their reputation but putting their lives at risk, according to media reports.

So if foreign nationals are innocent and Martinique nationals are innocent who are behind the robberies?

Time will tell.

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(SNO) – Parts of a derelict wooden house in Choiseul, that collapsed around 6 a.m. on Monday, July 16, 2018, is being demolished — finally, according to residents.

The house, which was located near the police station in Choiseul, posed a risk to passersby.

Though no one was injured when the abandoned structure collapsed over a week and a half ago, it came very close in claiming a victim.  CLICK HERE TO SEE ORIGINAL STORY

In an earlier report, a resident had said: “This morning a big part of the house fell in the road. It almost fell on a man that was going to put garbage by the road. When people hear the loud noise they went to see but no one got hurt.”

Our newsroom was told that the presumed owner of the building had been told to break the structure down a long time ago, so that the structure won’t collapse unexpectedly and hurt someone.

Many persons, including children, had to pass the “risky” derelict house to reach their homes, according to the resident.

However, relief came mid-week when the owner and his workers began to demolish the structure.

Residents are hoping that the debris will be fully cleared soon.

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Drug accused Charles Herbert (centre) is calling on the Director of Public Prosecutions Donna Babb-Agard, QC, to urgently review evidence in his case. Here he is flanked by co-accused Chris Rogers (left), as well as family members and supporters. (Pictures by Kemar Holder.)

(BARBADOS TODAY) – The business executive Charles Herbert, one of three men who have dominated the news since Tuesday, after it was revealed that they were arrested on drug charges, has gone public to protest his innocence.

Herbert, the chairman of Goddard Enterprises Limited (GEL) and head of the Barbados Private Sector Association, along with non-executive director Chris Rogers and GEL employee Walter Oneal Prescod, was today charged with four drugs offences, including importation of 267 pounds of cannabis, estimated by police to have a street value of $534,160.

They were also charged with possession, possession with intent to supply and trafficking of the drug on July 23. They were not required to plead to the indictable charge.

However, after posting $400, 000 bail with two sureties the 62-year-old Herbert, of Redland Plantation, St George, spoke publicly about the charge against him and the 56-year-old Rogers of #27 York Road, Navy Gardens, Christ Church, insisting they were both innocent.

“I first want to assert clearly to the public that we are entirely innocent of all of the charges that have been brought and we have been charged with,” the Goddard boss said, making no reference to Prescod, who in 2001 had pleaded guilty and was jailed for 12 years for importation and possession of 250 pounds of marijuana on March 3, 2000.

“I want to say clearly to you all that all of the evidence that they [police] have clearly supports our innocence,” said Herbert, who along with Rogers and Prescod, spent the last four days being questioned by lawmen.

He also called on the Director of Public Prosecutions Donna Babb-Agard, QC, “to urgently review the evidence that has been collected and to preserve the integrity of our police force in bringing these charges against us”.

Acting on a tip off, members of the Drug Squad found the contraband on Monday aboard the yacht Ecstasy, owned by Goddard Enterprises Limited. All three men were onboard the vessel at the time.

Without stating why he felt the two were not guilty, Herbert said he was “shocked” by the charges levelled against him and his colleague, stating:

“We can only assume that the people who made the decision lack the courage to stand by the truth that they themselves have uncovered and that they are sworn to uphold.”

The businessman also took a shot at the media, along with posters on social media, complaining they had tried “to convict us before we were even charged and when they have no knowledge of any of the evidence”. “This is not the country that I live in, that we convict people without knowing any evidence,” he said, charging that a country that “wants blood” was turning him into a sacrificial lamb.

“We are coming out of a time in Barbados where the population feels that they have been taken advantage of by some politicians and business people and our country wants blood. But it is not our job to give the blood of innocent people, but I understand the demand and the concern that the country has in wanting somebody to blame for the situation that we are in, but I am not that person,” he said as members of his and Rogers’ family stood behind them for support.

Herbert, who Goddard said in a brief statement yesterday remains at chairman even as his deputy, William Putnam was named acting chairman, said he would make a determination on his future as chairman and head of the private sector give the current situation.

“I have to review whether I am even able to do so while a charge of drug trafficking hangs over my head and challenges my credibility. Any decision that I make will be in the interest of the company that I represent. If my continuing harms them then I will not continue. If I hurt the credibility of the private sector then I will certainly resign my position,” he added.

About half an hour prior to Herbert’s statement to the media in the courtyard, police had asked reporters to clear the area near the stairs of the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrate’s Court as uniformed officers escorted the three men inside.

The prosecutor, Station Sergeant Samuel Hinds, objected to bail for all three, based on the seriousness of the indictable charges as well as the fact that the accused men had access to vessels and could “readily flee the country if they so desired”.

However, attorneys Andrew Pilgrim, QC, and Kamisha Benjamin disagreed, arguing that their clients, Herbert and Rogers, were fit candidates for bail and that the prosecution’s objections did not hold water as the two men were born and bred Barbadians with strong family ties and business interests. Pilgrim also pointed out that people charged in the past in connection with higher quantities of drugs had been granted bail.

Pilgrim further argued that the vessel on which the contraband was found was currently with police and no arrangements had been made for its release.

Attorneys-at-law Shadia Simpson and Arthur Holder are representing Prescod. However, Holder was not in court today because he was performing his duties as Speaker of the House.

It was left to Simpson to plead on Prescod’s behalf and she argued that her client was a good candidate for bail despite his previous convictions for similar charges, reminding the court that the last offence was some 17 years ago.

Furthermore, she stated that Prescod was an employee of Goddard Enterprises and did not own the vessel.

After mulling over the arguments Magistrate Douglas Frederick agreed with the defence.

Herbert must report to the District ‘F’ Police Station every Wednesday by 10 a.m. and Rogers to the Hastings Police Station every Wednesday by 10 a.m. The businessmen, who return to court on November 6, also had to surrender their travel documents to the court.

However, Prescod, who was offered bail of $450,000 bail because of his previous convictions, was remanded because his surety did not make it to court in time.

He returns to the No. 1 District Magistrate’s Court on Monday for another chance at freedom.

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Browne and Chastanet

(SNO) – Human and gender rights advocate Felicia Dujon Browne is the latest public figure to speak out against the visa restrictions being imposed on Venezuelan nationals by the Allen Chastanet-led Government of Saint Lucia.

Browne expressed her support for Venezuela, which is experiencing severe economic hardships due to internal and external challenges, in a Facebook post on Friday, July 27.

She implied that Venezuela is largely considered an ally of Saint Lucia and noted that the government’s decision is “careless”.

“Invoking a visa restriction on Venezuela is one of the most careless decisions to have been undertaken,” she wrote.

“As members of OECS and CARICOM, we should have recognized the importance of our friendship with our Latin American brothers and sisters. Every country has its allies and foes for various reasons. We should choose carefully which allegiances we should foster or severe our ties with. When our friends are on their knees, we do not close the doors in their faces. With good governance, we should act with dignity, humility and good conscious,” she added.

Since the news broke about the visa restrictions, government has attempted to reach out to the South American country through a one-day diplomatic effort.

In a press release, it was announced that Minister for Home Affairs and National Security, Hermangild Francis, was scheduled to lead a contingent to Venezuela on Friday, July 27, 2018 to “meet with the Minister of the Popular Power for the Interior, Justice and Peace Mr. Nestor Luis Reverol and the Director of the National Anti- Drug Organization Mr. Juan Grillo Gonzales”.

The press release said the Government of Saint Lucia visa requirements will be imposed on Venezuelans, with the exception of diplomats and genuine business persons, an action which was “precipitated by mounting national security concerns and the monitoring of unrelenting activities impacting the island’s porous borders”.

Minister Francis explained, according to the release, that the government has been “very thorough in relation to responding to some of the spin-off challenges emerging from the country’s current unfortunate economic circumstances”.

“Venezuela is still our friend,” Francis said. “We are not attempting to embarrass any nation, but suffice it to say that it is incumbent on the Government to take measures that will protect the country from security threats, and not compromise the security of our citizens or our borders. So this visit signifies that we are still friends and we will discuss mutual concerns and explore any solutions for going forward.”

Minister Francis called on the public in the press release to trust the government’s position, noting that it is not necessary to sensationalize this issue.

“This action is not unprecedented. It is not unprecedented that governments respond to their domestic concerns. We in Saint Lucia have visas imposed on us, and I speak of a country of less than 180,000 people,” he said.

The entourage for Venezuela included Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Dorian O’Brian, Venezuela’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia Leiff Esconlona, and representatives of the Office of the Mayor of Castries.

Minister Francis said he is looking forward to favourable talks, according to the press release.

Support for Browne’s opinion

The majority of the persons who responded to Browne’s post, agreed with her position.

John R. Lee called the decision, “Shameful and thankless move by the St. Lucian government.”

Augustin Francois expressed “I feel the shame”

Andre Pancho de Caires said “I concur.”

Victor Marquis Ingratitude found that the decision was unjust “, after the incredible number of things they have done for us”

Felicia Jules pointed out that “Many children have Spanish CXC by receiving free classes from Venezuela institute in St.Lucia”

And Smith Jn Philip said “I will support you 100percent ,,,,,,,brilliant words”

However, two people disagreed with Browne.

Keril Victor wrote: “Over 5 million people emigrated from Venezuela in the past 2-3 years during the economic collapse. We can help Venezuela but we must also protect our borders.”

Felicia Browne responded: “Protect our borders from whom? How many Venezuelans have migrated to our shores in the last 2-3 years. We need formal data to prove the claim that guns and crime are being perpetrated by Venezuelans. The erroneous statement from our Prime Minister is careless and irresponsible. This is a matter of Human Rights and denying people free movement based of presumed prejudice is unethical. Print the evidence to the claim that we have a migration problem with the peoples of Venezuela.”

Keril Victor bounced back, saying: “That’s precisely the point that we take such action before it happens. It’s a matter of national security. Yes, Saint Lucia owes Venezuela for their years of support whether through funding , projects , scholarships. But I’m saying we can still help Venezuela without exposing our vulnerable borders.”

The other person to have a differing view is “Aline Henry – chastenet”. She wrote: “st lucia has a right to protect its borders ,get a visa and come on over.”

Browne responded: “against whom? Who are the criminals? Is there any proof that we have a major crime problem with Venezuelans? It was a careless and baseless decision. It reminds me of what is currently happening in the US. We must never tolerate any form of injustice or intolerance to any group of persons. We are Saint Lucians first and foremost. It is not in our nature to behave in this manner.”

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Dr. Soomer

(SNO) – Saint Lucian Dr. June Soomer is among seven distinguished alumni of the University of the West Indies (UWI) who have been recognised for contributions to their communities and areas of endeavour at the 70th anniversary “Pelican Awards”.

The special awards ceremony, which was part of Chancellor’s Week, a wider week-long celebration of the University’s anniversary, was held at the Mona Visitors’ Lodge and Conference Centre, at the Mona Campus on Wednesday, July 25, 2018.

Awardees were presented with the prestigious Pelican Award and a commemorative rum created by UWI alumna and honorary graduate, Dr. Joy Spence, the world’s first female master blender. They also received gifts from the UWI Press, Sagicor, Wisynco and the UWI Bookshop.

The seven awardees—one for each decade of the UWI’s 70-year history—are all of Caribbean origin and were selected by their peers in recognition of the impact they have made in their professional spheres within their particular communities, the Caribbean and the wider Caribbean Diaspora.

Recipients of the Pelican Awards were nominated by Chapters of the UWI Alumni Association globally.

The seven Awardees are:

1948-1958: Dr Lloyd Stanford (Jamaican), retired senior public servant of the Province of Ontario, Canada, and president of Le Groupe Stanford Inc., a consulting firm specializing in multiculturalism, employment equity, bilingualism, human resource development and international development, based in Ottawa.

1959-1968: Dr Karl Massiah (Barbadian), Orthopaedic Surgeon, founder and head of Orthopaedics at Etobioke Hospital – Canada, and pioneering founding member of the UWI Medical Alumni Association (UWIMAA).

1969-1978: Professor Merle Collins (Grenadian), internationally-acclaimed poet, oral archivist, documentary film maker and educator. She initiated the “Saraka & Nation” project, which traces the connection between African cultures in the Americas and sites of memory in Africa and produced a documentary film on the importance of “small islands”.

1978-1988: The Hon. Justice Irving Andre (Dominican), a distinguished jurist currently serving on the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario. He has won several awards for his published work encompassing a wide range of subjects, from labour and immigration law to football.

1989-1998: Dr. June Soomer (St Lucian), the first female to graduate with a doctorate in history from the Cave Hill Campus of the UWI. A former ambassador of St. Lucia to the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, she currently serves as Secretary-General of the Association of Caribbean States and as Chair of the UWI Open Campus Council.

1999-2008: Dr. Andre Haughton (Jamaican), lecturer in the Department of Economics, UWI Mona, founded the Valley Foundation which mentors young people in the Rose Heights area of Montego Bay.

2009-2018: Dr. Nicole Nation (Jamaican) has received several awards of excellence for her work in the medical field, particularly in autism and disabilities, medical research and community service. She is the conceptualizer of the “Women of Tomorrow” mentorship programme.

Chancellor’s Week, which ran from July 23-29, 2018, was a highlight in the UWI’s yearlong celebration of its legacy of “70 years of service, 70 years of leadership”.

Proceeds from Chancellor’s Week will go to the UWI Regional Endowment Fund (UWIREF) to support undergraduate and graduate students, based on merit and financial need as well as to research and other developmental projects.

Officially launched in July 2008 as part of the University’s 60th anniversary celebrations, the UWIREF has since awarded over 180 scholarships, worth over US$1.1M.

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(SNO) – Former Opposition Leader and Education Minister with the United Workers Party (UWP) Arsene James has died.

He was 73.

James reportedly passed away at a hospital in Martinique around 3 a.m. on Sunday, July 29 after a prolonged illness.

The UWP paid tribute to James in a Facebook post: “We regret the loss of Hon Arsene James who has departed from this life. Mr. James distinguished himself as a statesman of extraordinary ilk. His life epitomized “service” – as a community leader, teacher, principal, Parliamentarian and Government Minister. Let us pray for his family and friends, that God will comfort them during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”

James represented the Micoud South constituency for the UWP and became Opposition Leader when UWP leader Morella Joseph did not win her seat, in the December 2001 elections.

He served as the Minister for Education and Culture under the government of Prime Minister John Compton from 2006 to 2011.

James decided not to contest the 2016 General Elections and his Micoud South seat was eventually represented by party leader Allen Chastanet who went on to be victorious and become the prime minister.

St. Lucia News Online sends sincere condolences to the family and friends of Arsene James

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(SNO) – Prime Minister Allen Chastanet has paid tribute to former Opposition Leader and former Parliamentary Representative for Micoud South, Arsene James, who passed away in Martinique on Sunday, July 29, after a prolonged illness, at the age of 73.

It was Chastanet who successfully contested the Micoud South seat in the 2016 General Elections after James decided not to contest the seat shortly before the elections.

In a Facebook post on Sunday, Chastanet said “we have lost a compassionate, kind and devoted soul”.

Here is the entire post: “We are immensely saddened by the news of the passing of stalwart member and former parliamentary representative for Micoud South, Mr. Arsene James. At this very difficult time our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

“Born October 30, 1944, Mr. Arsene Vigil James was a servant of his community and Saint Lucia. He was an exemplary and distinguished local educator having had years of service as a teacher and principal. Mr. James went on to oversee the development of education in Saint Lucia when he served as Minister of Education from 2006 to 2011. Mr. James also previously served as Leader of the Opposition in 2003. He was a loyal member of the United Workers Party and continued to play a leading role in the development of the Micoud community.

In 2017, Mr. Arsene James was awarded the Saint Lucia Cross as part of our 38th Independence Awards.

We send our deepest condolences to all his family, his friends, to the people of Micoud, members of the United Workers Party and the People of Saint Lucia. We have lost a compassionate, kind and devoted soul. May he rest in perfect peace.”

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A Grenadian athlete in javelin throw action at the WISG in Saint Lucia.

(SNO) – Grenada won athletics, men’s basketball and men’s football to win yet another CBN/WINLOTT Windward Islands School Games (WISG) title, as the Games ended on Sunday in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia.

The hosts ended joint second with St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Grenada finished with 33 points, whilst Saint Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines were each on 27. Despite having won two disciplines, Dominica finished fourth and last with 25 points.

Grenada led the standings from the host nation going into the final day of competition in the multi-sport school tournament, run by the respective member governments. Two disciplines were yet to be decided at that juncture, men’s football and women’s volleyball.

On Saturday night, Saint Lucia had beaten Grenada 38-19 to take the netball title, also having ended second in women’s basketball, women’s and men’s volleyball. Dasha Eugene was 12-17, Megan Nestor 26-42 for Saint Lucia in that final netball encounter.

In the football title decider, on Sunday morning, the match was abandoned three minutes into injury time, and awarded to Grenada, who were 2-1 up. Rickell Charles scored in the 8th, Leon Braveboy in the 57th. Bryant Polius temporarily levelled scores for Saint Lucia in the 47th. Referee Andrew Philip notably handed down five red cards, Grenada losing Dishon Alexander and Khyle Gibson, Saint Lucia losing Chardam Seraphin, Ed Fred, and Gabriel Biscette, all in the 80th.

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The waste piling up in Pavee, Castries.

(SNO) – Residents of Pavee, Castries are calling on the authorities investigate a garbage collection issue in their community as well as clear up approximately two-months worth of waste.

It is alleged that the garbage collectors empty the bins but do little or nothing to collect the waste outside the bins.

The collectors were last in the community about two days ago to collect the waste from the bin.

Residents said the garbage stench is unbearable, especially when it rains.

“They always taking the garbage in the bin but not outside of the bin,” one resident told our newsroom.

When asked why the collectors would do such a thing, the resident replied: “They say is not them that have to take it.”

The residents said while it understandable that the sanitation workers are tasked with emptying the bins, something must be done to collect the garbage that has piled up outside the bins, as their health is at risk.

“I don’t know but somebody have to move it, that not good for people health… I really want them to come and move it,” another resident added.

The authorities have repeatedly advised persons not to dump rubbish outside the bins.

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(SNO) – Saint Lucia took two medals and a fourth place finish at the 45th edition of the Central American & Caribbean Championships held this past weekend in Mexico City, at the magnificent “Teatro Ferrocarrilero”.

Velda John of Vel’s Fitness Centre was third in the women’s body fitness <163cm, whilst Joneil Pelage of Laborde’s Gym was second in the Junior Bodybuilding division.

Worrell Eristhee of Mango Moon Gym took fourth place in men’s physique < 175cm (tall).

There is no word as to where national bodybuilding champion St. George Prospere finished.

The team was headed by National Coach Julian Felix, who has represented Saint Lucia in the past at the CAC Championships, and accompanied by Monica Dudley serving as judge along with the president of the local federation Jacqueline Trim.

There was more success for the Saint Lucia Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (SLABBFA) on the second day of the 45th Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding Championship held in Mexico.

Adding to the medals won by Velda John (Women’s Body Fitness) and Joneil Pelage (Men’s Junior Bodybuilding) and the fourth place by Worrell Eristhee in Men’s Physique, Saint Lucia’s St. George Prospere took third in the men’s Welter Weight Bodybuilding class, and Pelage added a fourth place in Men’s Middle Weight Bodybuilding.

According to a SLABBFA release, “It is a while Saint Lucia had not been represented at this championship with so many athletes and we thank the National Lotteries Authorities, the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, LUCELEC, Ministry of Youth Development and Sports along with many other persons who contributed and made this trip possible.

“We are very pleased that our athletes did their best and produced results. With a little more assistance, I am confident they will do better at future championships and continue to prepare in an effort to represent Saint Lucia at the Darcey Beckles to be held in Barbados in September this year.”

At the 45th CAC General Assembly, a new executive was elected to run the affairs of the CAC Federation for the next four years. The president Giovani Arnez was reelected as presented. Saint Lucia’s Jacqueline Trim was elected as President of the Eastern Caribbean Region and Vice President of CAC, and herself and compatriot Monica Dudley were elected to serve on the CAC Anti-Doping Commission.

The delegation is expected to arrive at the George FL Charles airport on Tuesday July 31st , 2018 at 7:50am.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – For many businesses, the sign “No Exchange, No Refund” serves as a legitimate reason not to honour a consumer complaint about a defective product or shoddy service.

This seemingly disadvantageous sign has sparked numerous calls and complaints from consumers, all of them begging the questions, “is this right? Can a business place have a “no exchange no refund policy?”

To put it simply, this sign carries no weight. A business place should not have a ‘No Refund No Exchange’ policy as it is in direct contravention with sections 102-106 of the Consumer Protection Act No. 9 of 2016. In fact, these signs should not be used to determine whether or not a consumer receives a refund or exchange for a defective good; whether these goods are on sale, gift items or even second-hand or repossessed goods.

It is important to note however, that a business place does not have to provide a refund or an exchange to a consumer who changes his or her mind about a product, or found the item elsewhere at a cheaper price. Consumers must be cautious and always compare prices and product quality before making a purchase.

A consumer only has the right to redress, once he or she has a legitimate complaint, that is, if the good is defective, described inaccurately or misleadingly or if the good fails to provide the benefit and uninterrupted enjoyments for which it was intended.

A consumer who has a legitimate complaint is entitled to one of the four forms of redress, that is, a refund, an exchange, repair or credit note. However, when seeking redress, the consumer must always return to the place of purchase first and this must be done within reasonable time after the problem is discovered. If the matter is not amicably resolved, then the consumer can contact the Consumer Affairs Division, 4th Floor, Heraldine Rock Building, Waterfront, Castries or call 468-4224/31.

Consumers need to understand that while every consumer has rights, with these rights always come responsibilities and so the call is made for every consumer to act responsibly – ask questions, read labels, instructions and warnings, examine goods thoroughly before making a purchase and of course always ensure that you receive your receipt.
Consumers the power is in your hand –take charge.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Addressing the Annual Youth Conference of the Saint Lucia Labour Party Youth Organization ‘SLPYO,’ Political Leader of the SLP Hon Philip J Pierre has promised that an SLP government’s education policy will ensure there will be at least one university graduate in every household in Saint Lucia within a reasonable time when the SLP returns to power.

The SLPYO conference held on Sunday 29 July at the Grande Riviere Secondary School brought together youth delegates from constituencies island wide. The Conference heard reports from the outgoing executive and plans on the way forward.

The Party Leader urged the youth to dismiss the notion that all politicians are the same and look closely at the record of the politicians that offer themselves for public office. He promised that the SLP will consult widely with young people during the preparation of its next election manifesto.

A new executive lead by Ms Shermine Perpie was elected. The Conference was addressed by Parliamentary Representative for Dennery North and SLP 2nd Deputy Political Leader Hon Shawn Edward, Parliamentary Representative for Laborie and SLP 1st Deputy Political Leader Hon Alva Baptiste and Hon Moses Jn Baptiste, Parliamentary Representative for Vieux Fort North and SLP Chairman.

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(SNO) – Saint Lucia’s men finished off their preliminary competition in Pool C Beach Volleyball at the Central American and Caribbean Games with a victory over Haití, 21-13, 21-14. Augustin Faulkner and Tevin St. Jean, a pair of 22-year-olds, had 27 successful attacks, benefitted from 11 opponent errors, and recorded two aces and two blocks.

It was the first win in three matches for Team Saint Lucia.

Meanwile, Saint Lucia’s women – Kerin Neptune and Jamilla Lansiquot – were beaten 21-13, 21-12 by Curaçao’s Christine Anthony and Samira Luis, then 21-15, 21-14 by Panamá’s Dionelys Delgado and Yamileth Montenegro Del Cid, to end Preliminary Round Group C winless.

Saint Lucia will now play El Salvador in the men’s placement competition, whilst they face the Cayman Islands in the women’s tournament.

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A Beaming St. Rose Jacobie receives his Citation from Minister Gale Rigobert

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Sandals Grande Saint Lucia Diver St. Rose Jacobie, who dove into open ocean off the coast of Saint Lucia to save two persons who had fallen off a party boat will be nominated for the Mountbatten Medal; an international award given by the Commonwealth Royal Life Saving Society for the most gallant rescue or rescue attempt.

The announcement came from John Bruce, President of the Life Savers Association of Saint Lucia, during a function held at the Sandals Grande Saint Lucia resort to honour St. Rose for his outstanding effort and bravery.

Sandals Team members come out to support St Rose for his act of heroism and Bravery

This is the second time in three years that a Sandals team member in Saint Lucia has been nominated for the award, which was won in 2015 by Zachaeus Dominique, a lifeguard from Sandals Regency La Toc Golf Resort and Spa, after he had rescued a member of the public who had gotten into difficulty while swimming in rough seas.

During a carnival party cruise recently two persons, a man and his companion who was from the UK, fell from the boat into the open water. Without hesitating St. Rose leapt into action and dove off the boat, just in time to grab on to the gentleman who had already started going under. He was soon able to stabilize both persons, and hold on to them until the boat turned around.

During Saturday’s function in his honour, he thanked his training for allowing him to respond so quickly.

“I dove in without even taking off my shoes. It was instinct and I just want everybody to know that I am not a hero; my team members would have done the same. This is what we are trained for. Our training is something that we take seriously at Sandals. We have been (drilled) for years and I enjoy it. It’s a nice feeling knowing that if anyone were to get into trouble right now, any one of my team members at Sandals can stand up and give first-aid or CPR, this is what they put into us.”

St. Rose received an official citation from Sandals Deputy Chairman Adam Stewart CD, which was presented to him by Minister for Education, Innovation and Sustainable Development the Hon. Gale Rigobert.

The Minister praised St. Rose for his swift actions which she said surely saved lives that day.

“That is a tremendous feat of courage, of right-thinking and of bravery and I want to applaud you for that.”

Noting the comments made by St. Rose, she went further to thank Sandals for the investment the company has made in its team members allowing them to be prepared to act so quickly.

“You need not spare a second thought about investing in your team members because there is certainly no telling just how far that will go. What (St. Rose) has done – and he did not do it for fame or glory – but what he has done has said something about the Sandals brand. Clearly at the heart of Sandals is a soul, a sentiment, right-thinking and a people-centered approach that gave St. Rose the courage to do what he did.”

In the citation presented to the hero diver, the company’s Deputy-Chairman Mr. Adam Stewart expressed the following;

“Sandals Resorts International wishes to formally recognise Mr. St. Rose Jacobie for the courage and heroism recently demonstrated when he dove into the ocean to save two persons who had fallen from a boat during a party cruise.
St. Rose’s action saved the lives of those persons and is the embodiment of all that we stand for as members of the Sandals family. He certainly gave more than was expected and went well beyond the call of duty. He is indeed the definition of a true hero. On behalf of our Chairman the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart and the entire Sandals family we are proud to call him our own.  We salute you St. Rose; you are a shining example of what it means to be selfless and compassionate. Keep being you and don’t ever change.”

Should his nomination for the Mountbatten Medal be successful, St. Rose will travel to Buckingham Palace to receive the award.

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Photo credit : Star Publishing Company

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The Cabinet of Ministers paid tribute to the late Micoud South Member of Parliament (MP), Mr. Arsene James, with a moment of silence at Monday morning’s Cabinet meeting.

The nation received news on Sunday July 29th 2018 about the passing of Mr. Arsene Vigil James, a distinguished educator, a former Leader of the Opposition and Saint Lucia’s Minister of Education from 2006 to 2011.

Prime Minister and current Micoud South MP, Honourable Allen Chastanet, on Monday gave a heartfelt tribute to Mr. James stating that the news of his death had been a shock to the Government and the people of the community of Micoud South.

“My constituency is very saddened,” said PM Chastanet. “Mr. James was a person who had made a significant impact in the constituency and everyone would remember him most for ‘friendly society’ which is something that he loved. He is going to be greatly missed.”

Prime Minister Chastanet explained that Mr. James was involved in several projects in the constituency including the Desruisseaux Road and was especially concerned about the water situation and was integral to the Ti Rocher Micoud Pipe Laying project.

“Mr. James was the consummate gentleman,” the Prime Minister went on. “He continuously stayed above the fray. He always allowed the community and the people to remain at the forefront. He had great humility and was a great statesman. I would like to say to the young people of our country that may be discouraged by politics that if they look back at his history, he has set an incredible example and a very high standard for the rest of us to be able to pursue.”

On behalf of the Government and People of Saint Lucia, Prime Minister Chastanet, expressed condolences to the James family, friends of Mr. James, former students and colleagues, as well as the people of Micoud.

Born 30th October 1944, Mr. Arsene Vigil James began as a Teacher at the Micoud Primary School from 1957 to 1959, following which he went on to teach at the Desruisseaux Infant School and then the Combined school for another nine years. In the early 1970s Mr. James also served as a teacher at the Micoud Junior Secondary School. Mr. James served as the Principal at the Vieux Fort Senior Secondary School and the Principal of Micoud Secondary School. Mr. James is also a former president of the Principals Association and is heavily involved in his community’s charitable activities.

Cabinet in moment of silence in honour of Mr. Arsene James

Also paying tribute to Mr. James was Minister for Education and Micoud North MP Hon. Dr. Gale T.C. Rigobert who described Mr. James’ passing as a loss for the entire district of Micoud.

“Mr. James distinguished himself as a statesman of extraordinary capacity, wisdom, poise and grace. I have no recollection of him being dishevelled unnerved or angry. He was very principled,” Minister Rigobert noted. “One of the things I think he will be most remembered for is his people centered politics.”

Minister Rigobert also referred to Mr. James’ involvement in “friendly society” which is an organisation to which members pay small amounts of money over a long period in the event of illness or loss of life.

“I want to make special mention of the people from the friendly society that he managed. In a sense he was there for them every Sunday when they went to pay their society,” the Micoud North MP stated. “That is a tradition that we are losing in this country. Mr James being there on the day that society was going to be paid was of paramount importance to him and that is how embedded he was in the community. Even throughout his political career and throughout his professional career this is something that meant a lot to him because that is where he got to connect with the people.”

The Minister also spoke to the Ti Rocher Micoud Pipe Laying Project.

“I am especially glad that notwithstanding years of delay that he knew before his passing that finally that water project that he had fought for so diligently will happen,” Dr. Rigobert stated. “I know that the invitations were given to him and he was carefully involved in the crafting of that water project. In my mind that was his last gift to the people of Micoud South.”

Minister Rigobert expressed condolences on behalf of the Ministry of Education and the constituency of Micoud North and to all who knew Mr. James.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Residents of Soufriere and Environs will from Monday July 30th once again receive Public Healthcare Services from the Soufriere Hospital.

Staff and clients of the Soufriere Hospital are today breathing a sigh of relief as Public Health Care services have now returned to Soufriere Hospital since fire destroyed part of the facility on 2nd December 2017.

Following the investigation into the cause of the fire by the police the hospital was officially handed back to the Ministry of Health and Wellness about two months ago. The hospital has undergone deep cleaning, retrofitting and electrical works in readiness for the reopening.

Principal Nursing Officer of the Soufriere Hospital, Alicia Alexander expressed gratitude to both staff and clients for their patience and understanding during the period which saw services move to St. Isidore’s Hall and Etangs Wellness Centre in Soufriere. She outlined the services which are now currently available at the Soufriere Hospital.

“Maternal and child healthcare clinics, medical clinic, pharmacy services, dental services and mental health care services are now available.”

Alexander advised that Urgent Care Services will remain at the Etangs Wellness Centre until late August while work is being undertaken to complete the A&E section of the hospital. Due to the two recent fires at the facility she said more is being done to ensure the safety of staff and clients.

“We have increased security measures as well as personnel in ensuring that both clients and staff are secured.”
Having been displaced for more than seven months, Alexander said staff were keenly anticipating the return of services at the Soufriere Hospital.

“Staff and clients are all excited to return back to Soufriere Hospital. We’re coming into a place which has been retrofitted, our walls are newly painted. We had cleaning services that did a wonderful job in cleaning the place. So we are all very excited and happy to be back at Soufriere Hospital.”

She noted that the Ministry of Health will inform the public when urgent care services will resume operations at the Soufriere Hospital.

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