H.E. Ambassador Douglas C.T.Shen (middle) with Taiwan Banana expert Mr. Tsung-Hsien Wu (left) and the Head of Taiwan Technical Mission, Mr. Mario Cheng

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) recently assigned Taiwan Banana expert Mr. Tsung-Hsien Wu, Specialist of Taiwan Banana Research Institute (TBRI), to assist in the implementation of the Banana Productivity Improvement Project in Saint Lucia.

Mr. Wu has ample expertise in banana production, pest control, climate adaptation and post-harvest technology. He will collaborate with the Ministry of Agriculture, the stakeholders of the banana industry and local farmers to monitor and control major pest and diseases, with an aim to increase banana field productivity levels from a low of 5-8 tons to 10-15 tons per acre.

The Banana Productivity Improvement Project will be implemented over a four-year period. During the first year, major focus will be put on restoring the industry to pre-Matthew condition and increasing productivity on existing acreages. Thereafter attention will be placed on expanding current acreages, enhancing resilience to climate change, establishing sustainable financing mechanism, building capacity and strength in disease control measures.

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Managing Director, Bernard La Corbinière

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Bank of Saint Lucia is lending its voice to the ongoing dialogue regarding honouring cheques made payable to non-account holders at local commercial banks.

The Bank wishes to state its position on the matter.

Managing Director, Bernard La Corbinière stated, “Bank of Saint Lucia takes the matter of honouring cheques very seriously and continues to cash cheques for non-account holders at all five branches, island wide.”

The Bank invests significantly in new convenience banking services as well as traditional banking services to make it easier for our customers. With the introduction of a number of new payment methods including Electronic Funds Transfer, the Bank recognizes that cheques still form an essential part of day to day business for many customers.

The Bank remains committed in this regard to honour all genuine BOSL cheque transactions. Genuine in the sense that the cheque is completed correctly including date, payee and sum; sufficient available funds on the account from which the funds are being drawn; and appropriate authorized signatures. Customers are also reminded that valid picture identification is a key requirement for the cashing of cheques.

Banks in the region continue to move towards paperless transactions. However, cheques will continue to be honoured until such time that there is a seamless transition from traditional methods to new technologies.

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(ADVERTORIAL) – Recognizing the demand for used car parts on the island stemming from the overwhelming volume of used vehicles, Auto Domain Inc. hopes to fill the void.

Our aim is to help used vehicle owners keep their vehicles in good working condition, economically.

Our stock includes genuine used parts for the:

Toyota: Corolla, Noah, VOXI, Mark X, Mark II, Alphard, IST, , Crown, Vitz, Caldina, Estima, Wish, Carib, Caldina, Grand Hiace, Platz, Duet, Starlet, Allion, Tercel, Funcargo, GAIA, Cami.

Nissan: Sylphy, Wingroad, X-Trail, Sunny, Note, Pulsar, March, Cube, La Festa, Avenir.

Honda: HR-V, Fit, Stepwagon.

Mitsubishi: Lancer, Galant, Pajero, Mirage.

Suzuki: Swift, Escudo.

Daihatsu: Terios.

Mazda: Familia, Mazda 3, Demio.

Subaru: Forester, Legacy BP5.

Our parts stock includes nose cuts, bonnets, grills, rear view and door mirrors, fenders, head lamps, tail lamps, front and rear doors, break boosters, disc rotors, hubs, front and rear bumpers, radiators, AC condensers, panels and evaporators, washer tanks, fuel pumps, wiper arms and motors, speed meters, sun visors, steering racks, Steering columns with wheels, drive shafts, lower arms, shock absorbers, rear axles, combination switches, roof lights and more…

We also do scheduled installations on certain parts, priced reasonably and provide recommendations for good mechanics, body shops and auto electrical technicians.

Come find us downstairs the Fitness Freak Gym in Grand Riviere Gros Islet. Call us at 287-AUTO (2886) or 727-AUTO (2886) or email us at autodomaininc@gmail.com.

We look forward to seeing you and thank you in advance for your patronage.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The Ninety-First Meeting of the Monetary Council of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) was held under the Chairmanship of Dr The Right Honourable Keith Mitchell on 27 July 2018, at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, Grand Anse, St George’s, Grenada.

1.0 Monetary Stability

Council received the Governor’s Report on Monetary and Credit Conditions in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). The report assessed the recent trends in monetary and credit conditions for the period April 2017 to March 2018, within the context of the Bank’s broader objectives of ensuring the stability of the exchange rate
and the financial system.

Council was apprised of the following:

• Global output is estimated to have risen to 3.8 per cent in 2017 and is forecast to continue rising in 2018 and 2019 to a projected 3.9 per cent.

• With strong global economic growth, it is anticipated that ECCB member countries will benefit from positive spill-overs including increased Tourism, Foreign Direct Investment and Remittances.

• Money and credit conditions continued to show a general improvement but domestic credit conditions were less than optimal. Domestic credit fell by 1.2 per cent to $9.7 billion.

• Growth in money supply increased by 4.1 per cent to $17.1 billion as at 31 March 2018.

• The Currency Union’s exchange rate arrangement continued to be supported by a strong and growing stock of foreign currency reserves.

Having considered the state of monetary and credit conditions, Council agreed to maintain the Minimum Savings Deposit Rate at 2.0 per cent and the Central Bank’s discount rate at 6.5 per cent. The Minimum Savings Rate is the lowest rate that commercial banks can offer on savings deposits. The Central Bank’s Discount Rate is the rate at which the ECCB lends to commercial banks and governments.

2.0 Financial Stability

Council was informed that as at 31 March 2018, the ECCU banking sector was assessed as stable. Although, generally speaking, banks are in compliance with capital requirements, there is a need to strengthen capital given the impact of non-performing loans (NPLs), growth strategies and the likely effects of Basel II/III and IFRS 9 requirements.

With respect to the banking sector, Council also noted, that as at 31 March 2018:

• Total assets increased by 3.9 per cent to $30.8 billion (156.3 per cent of GDP);

• Deposits increased by 3.6 per cent to $21.6 billion (109.6 per cent of GDP);

• Loans and advances had a nominal contraction of 0.1 per cent to $12.2 billion (61.9 per cent of GDP); and

• The non-performing loan ratio increased from 10.9 per cent to 12.0 per cent. Council was updated on the status of the ECCU Credit Bureau Project. It noted that following Requests for Proposals, two firms had been shortlisted and site visits were being planned. It is anticipated that the Evaluation Committee will recommend a firm by September 2018 and that firm will be licensed to operate by December 2018. Council reaffirmed its desire to have the Bureau launched by June 2019.

Council was notified of the reconstitution of the Eastern Caribbean Payments Council (ECPC). Given the importance of a stable, efficient and secure payment system, Council fully endorsed the objectives and functions of the reconstituted ECPC and gave its commitment to support further developments including the modernisation of the ECCU Payments System.

3.0 Growth and Competitiveness

As it relates to growth, Council noted that real economic activity is projected to expand by 1.7 per cent in 2018.

Council was briefed on the status of the Eastern Caribbean Partial Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECPCGC) Agreement which came into being on 7 May 2018, noting that six participating governments had enacted the legislation and funding was secured from The World Bank with St Kitts and Nevis self-financing. The ECPCGC is scheduled to become operational by December 2018. Council ratified its decision on the nominees for the ECPCGC Board of Directors.

Council noted the recent dialogue between the ECCB and the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago exploring various options to address issues related to the difficulties with payment settlement for traders selling agricultural produce in Trinidad and Tobago.

4.0 Report from the Technical Core Committee on Insurance (BAICO and CLICO)

Council was informed that, of the funds available for distribution, 98 per cent was distributed to EC Dollar policyholders, and 76 per cent to US Dollar policyholders under the Plan of Arrangement (BAICO and CLICO) Act on 18 December 2017.

5.0 Change of Substrate for ECCB Banknotes

Council ratified its decision on the designs for the new family of ECCB polymer banknotes. Polymer notes offer the advantages of more advanced security features and greater durability. Circulation of the new notes is scheduled for mid-2019.

6.0 Date and Venue of 92nd Meeting of the Monetary Council

Council agreed to the convening of the 92nd Meeting of the Monetary Council on Friday, 26 October 2018 via videoconference.

7.0 Attendance

Council Members who attended the meeting were:

1. Dr The Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Grenada (Chairman)

2. Hon Victor F Banks, Chief Minister and Minister for Finance, Anguilla;

3. Hon Gaston Browne, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Antigua and Barbuda;

4. Hon Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Commonwealth of Dominica;

5. Hon Donaldson Romeo, Premier and Minister for Finance, Montserrat;

6. Dr the Hon Timothy Harris, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, St Kitts and Nevis;

7. The Hon Camillo Gonsalves, Minister for Finance, St Vincent and the Grenadines; and

8. Senator, the Hon Ubaldus Raymond, Minister of Public Service, Temporary Council Alternate for Saint Lucia.

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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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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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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Please be advised that due to damaged infrastructure off island, some Flow internet and digital TV users may experience higher than normal congestion and drops in service.

Our engineers are actively seeking to restore service in as short a time as humanly possible, and do apologise to our customers for the temporary interruption.

Further updates will be shared immediately upon receipt.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited (LUCELEC) welcomes the interest of the St. Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association (SLHTA) in seeking to have hotels generate up to 20% of their electricity needs from their own renewable energy (RE) systems.

So says LUCELEC Managing Director Trevor Louisy in response to a press release issued by the association in recent weeks.

LUCELEC is currently facilitating the inter-connection of 5% of the energy demand from renewable energy sources, made up of the 3 megawatt (MW) solar farm at La Tourney in Vieux Fort and eighty-seven (87) customer grid-tied solar PV systems across the island.

“Admittedly some of our other renewable energy projects such as the 12 MW wind farm have not taken off as we anticipated, not for lack of effort on our part. And as far as possible, we have supported the efforts of the Government to explore and develop the geothermal energy resource as this can be a significant game changer. If St. Lucia is going to meet the renewable energy targets the Government has set, it will certainly require the collaboration of all stakeholders that translates into swift action,” he says.
The SLHTA has expressed a desire to see the 25kW cap on renewable energy systems for commercial entities lifted. Mr Louisy says that cap was arrived at through an extensive study by independent consultants working with the Government and LUCELEC, taking into consideration the capacity of the grid and need to ensure the stability of the entire electricity system.

LUCELEC has been making significant investments in getting the grid to a place where it can support the Government’s renewable energy commitment of generating 35% of the country’s energy from renewables by 2020. However, there must be some certainty and predictability with the process, the Managing Director says. The Company is currently working on adding energy storage facilities to the grid so that as more solar or wind powered renewable energy is added, there will be no deterioration of the reliable service customers currently receive from LUCELEC. Some of these investments have been phased over time so as not to adversely impact what customers pay.

Moreover, Mr Louisy adds, while LUCELEC has been making the infrastructural improvements, the regulatory framework has not kept pace although it is catching up. The National Utilities Regulatory Commission (NURC) is in place but the remaining supporting legislation and regulations have not been completed. The licensing of renewable energy systems and the eventual limits on the size of these systems reside with the NURC, not LUCELEC. Similarly, the development of the tariff regime, what customers pay for electricity or how the charges for renewable energy systems will work, is also a matter for the NURC and the eventual legislative and regulatory framework that will be developed. Mr Louisy also reiterated the company’s commitment to renewable energy.

“We would be happy to buy all the renewable energy that is available to add to the mix of electricity that we sell to our customers. Barbados has a working model of that sort of arrangement which may also work well in our context,” he says.

LUCELEC is a member of the SLHTA and expects to engage the Board and Members on this issue. The Company expects the SLHTA’s input, along with other stakeholders, will be necessary in the discussions with the regulatory authorities on not just how Saint Lucia can achieve its renewable energy targets, but also on an appropriate tariff mechanism that ensures customers who do not own renewable energy systems are not subsidizing customers who have these systems.

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Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine, ECCB

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Salutations

Your Excellency Dame Dr Cecile La Grenade, Governor General of Grenada

Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, Outgoing Chairman of the Monetary Council

Dr. The Rt. Honourable Keith Mitchell, Incoming Chairman of the Monetary Council

Other members of the Monetary Council

Members of Cabinet

Members of Parliament

Members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps

Other Distinguished Guests

Rev. Dr. Osbert James

Mr. Trevor Brathwaite, Deputy Governor, ECCB

Board members and Advisers

ECCB Management and Staff

Members of the Media

Mrs. Ursula Antoine, MBE, my dear mother

Ladies and Gentlemen

Good Morning.

Introduction

We are delighted to be back in Grenada, the Isle of Spice. It is my distinct pleasure to welcome each of you to the Handing Over Ceremony to Mark the Change in Chairmanship of the Monetary Council of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

Today, the chairmanship of the Council passes from the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance for the Commonwealth of Dominica to Dr. The Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance for Grenada.

At this juncture, we wish to record our gratitude to the Government and People of Grenada for the excellent arrangements afforded us for the conduct of the Monetary Council’s 91st regular meeting. Article 7(2) of the ECCB Agreement states and I quote: “the Council shall meet not less than twice each year to receive from the Governor, the Bank’s report on monetary and credit conditions and to provide directives and guidelines on matters of monetary and credit policy to the Bank and for such other purposes as are prescribed under the Agreement” end of quote.

Recent Developments

It is 10 years since the onset of the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). The Monetary Council convenes at a time when the global economy is recording its best growth in seven years with projections of 3.9 per cent for both this year and next year.

That said, the global economy is pregnant with risks including climate change, spiralling debt levels, trade wars, BREXIT, rising oil prices (for oil-importing countries) and the tightening of financial conditions. Indeed, we are witnessing the “end of easy” as major central banks normalise interest rates after the unprecedented actions taken to help reboot the global economy.

Just over a month ago, I attended the Annual Meetings of the Bank for International Settlements in Basel, Switzerland – a convocation of central banks and regulators from around the globe. At that meeting, there was recognition of the considerable progress made in respect of post crisis reforms such as the recapitalisation of banks and the adoption of macro-prudential frameworks to deliver stronger oversight of systemically important financial institutions. Yet, there was a strong call to complete unfinished business before the onset of the
next downturn or crisis.

That unfinished business includes:

• Unburdening balance sheets of banks with large portfolios of non-
performing loans; and

• Untangling the web that is the $600 trillion market for derivatives. You
may recall that Warren Buffet once referred to derivatives as “financial
weapons of mass destruction”.

I now pivot to the prospects for the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). Growth for this year is projected around 2.0 per cent and for next year around 3.5 per cent. Exactly three weeks ago (6 July), the ECCU celebrated 42 years of stability of the EC dollar pegged at EC$2.70=US$1.00. This is a remarkable feat and a testimony to the resilience of our monetary union. Today, I confirm that our EC dollar is strong. As of last Friday (21 July), the backing ratio of our foreign reserves was 97.2 per cent.

Unfinished Business

Here in the ECCU, we too have made important progress since the GFC, having enacted a new Banking Act and resolved some troubled banks. Furthermore, the rollout of the new Risk Based Supervisory Framework for banks is imminent.

We can also point to the progress made by some member countries including Grenada to put their fiscal houses in order and build fiscal resilience.

Notwithstanding, we too have some unfinished business, which includes, inter alia:

• Establishment of a Regional Crisis Management Plan;

• Adoption of a macro-prudential framework (to ensure effective oversight
of systemically important banks and non-banks);

• Enactment of a uniform insurance law and establishment of the Eastern
Caribbean Financial Services Commission (to create a single space for
insurance as currently obtains for banking and securities business);

• Establishment of a Credit Bureau (to support enhanced credit underwriting
and equally important to open up the risk appetite of lending institutions);
and

• Establishment of a Deposit Insurance Scheme (to protect our depositors).

Furthermore, aside from the Regional Government Securities Market, we are yet to optimise fully, our very modern platform of the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE). For example, one in two citizens of the United States are invested in the US stock market and US households derive considerable wealth from the stock markets. Yet, 17 years after its creation, less than one in 10 citizens in the ECCU, in my estimation, are invested in our regional stock market.

Going forward, we believe that our regional stock exchange with connectivity to global capital markets ought to be a channel of wealth creation for our people. The new strategic plan of the ECSE will propel us in that direction. But even as we work assiduously to complete our unfinished business, we must now contend with new and emerging business.

New and Emerging Business

At the 2018 World Economic Forum in Davos, the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau remarked, and I quote: “the pace of change has never been this fast, yet it will never be this slow again”, end of quote. Does anyone recall when the first Automated Teller Machine (ATM) was opened? The year was 1967 – 51 years ago.

Today, the pace of Financial Technology (FinTech), inclusive of peer to peer lending, digital wallets, crowd funding, crypto-assets and initial coin offerings (ICOs), is breathtaking. And with the ubiquitous smartphone has the potential to make financial inclusion a reality for all. Lest we forget, these technologies were once mere ideas. Yet, as William Blake, the British poet poignantly observes, “what is now proved was once only imagined”.

With Blake’s observation in mind, policymakers and regulators ought to avoid a “failure of imagination” as we craft the way forward. Indeed, the onus is on us to ensure that the deployment of FinTech and our reduced use of cash develop in a way that maximises the opportunities and minimises the risks for our people. That said, imagination is a necessary, but not sufficient condition for there must also be cooperation. Indeed, regional and international cooperation is not merely the preferred way but the only way to harness these opportunities while mitigating risks such as money laundering (ML) and cybersecurity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our shared vision of transforming the ECCU, as articulated in our Strategic Plan, is fundamentally about shared prosperity for all who work and live in the ECCU. To this end, we must take care of our business – unfinished
as well as new and emerging. As Governor, I feel that sense of urgency and opportunity.

Today, I reaffirm the commitment of the Board, management and staff of the ECCB to support our Monetary Council, as together, we transform the ECCU for the good of the people we serve. Working together: governments, social partners, development partners and our people and by the grace of Almighty God, we shall succeed.

I thank you.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – FranklinCovey has launched its most ambitious marketing and business development campaign titled: FRANKLINCOVEY ON LEADERSHIP – THE WORLD TOUR.

On August 22nd 2018 the tour will be hosted in Saint Lucia.

www.franklincovey.com/onleadership

This live marketing event is designed to showcase our point of view on what differentiates great leaders at three levels in an organization (first level, mid-senior level and the executive level.)

This four hour (4 hour) event showcases FranklinCovey’s best thinking on leadership development drawn from literally hundreds of thousands of client meetings and client engagements throughout the world and $150M in research and development over the past four decades.

During this event we will showcase our newest solutions for the First and Mid-Senior Level Leaders and address what the future solutions look like as it relates to the Executive Level Leaders.

We will demonstrate features and tools of two specific solutions:

First Level Leaders: Everybody Deserves a Great Manager: The 6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team (A one-day work-session). The new solution focuses on equipping first-level leaders with the essential skills and tools to accomplish tasks and achieve goals effectively by working well with and through other people.

Mid-Senior Leaders: The 4 Essential Roles of Leadership (A two-day works-session). This solutions provides fundamental framework for success. As leaders consciously lead themselves and their teams in alignment with these roles, they lay the foundation for effective leadership.

The morning event will allow prospective clients to take a dive into these two new leadership contents, introducing them to the principles that are critical for their leaders to understand, as they lead team initiatives, create a winning culture, and provide customers with a high-quality experience. We will showcase videos, exercises, tools and demonstrate and practice a new style of facilitation.

“Reaction to the preview of our newest leadership development solutions has dramatically exceeded our expectations,” said Scott Miller, FranklinCovey Chief Marketing Officer. “Attendees of our ‘On Leadership’ events are finding The 6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team to be relevant and applicable to the needs they have to develop their first-level leaders, which is crucial to the health and success of their organizations.”

First-level, mid-to-senior-level and executive-level leaders are invited to this half day experience focused on what sets great leaders apart. We encourage leaders to join us as we share what we’ve learned about great leaders and winning cultures. This event is ideal for those responsible for leadership development and organizational behavior change.

The event will be held at the Bay Gardens Inn, from 8:30am to 12:30pm on August 22nd 2018.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The Department of the Public Service has been saluted by the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association (SLBWA) for undertaking the noble act of giving to the non-profit organization, a cheque of $605.05 on Tuesday, July 31, 2018.

The presentation was made during a special ceremony to mark the close of Public Service Day Activities at the Finance Administration Center, in Pointe Seraphine.

Representative of the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association, Mrs. Debora Pamphile- McLean thanked the Public Service for this singular act of generosity.

“On behalf of the SLBWA, I would like to thank you. The blind and visually impaired will be the beneficiaries of this support and so it is nice to know that they are being thought of and the work of the SLBWA has not gone un-noticed. We continue to make the call to the public to give of your time, talent or treasure and we will very much appreciate whatever you can give.”

The Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association is slowly recovering from a hard-hitting financial crisis which saw the organization scaling back on its staff complement and services earlier this year.

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Professor Dale Webber

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The UWI Regional Headquarters, Jamaica, W.I. Tuesday, July 31, 2018—On August 1, 2018, The UWI, Mona Campus welcomes Professor Dale Webber as its new Campus Principal and Professor Ian Boxill as its Deputy Campus Principal.

Professor Webber’s appointment was approved by Chancellor Robert Bermudez in April, on behalf of the University Council and Professor Boxill’s nomination for appointment was accepted at the University Finance and General Purposes Committee meeting in June.

Professor Webber ascends to Campus Principal from the position of Pro Vice-Chancellor, Graduate Studies and Research. He has had a distinguished career in Coastal Ecology and Environmental Management and a strong and consistent record of teaching, graduate supervision, administration and research excellence which spans 30 years of service with The UWI.

He joined The UWI in 1989 as Warden of Taylor Hall (of residence) and worked his way up the ranks from Lecturer to Professor. From 1992 to 2001, he was also the Assistant Director for the Centre for Marine Sciences at Mona, returned as Director from 2005 to 2015, and held the Grace Kennedy’s James Moss-Solomon Senior Chair in Environmental Management from 2010 to 2015, until becoming Pro Vice-Chancellor, Graduate Studies and Research.

Professor Ian Boxill has been an outstanding administrator and leader at The UWI for over 25 years. Prior to his appointment as Deputy Principal of the Mona Campus, Professor Boxill was Dean in the Faculty of Social Sciences.

He joined The UWI as a Lecturer in 1992. In 2001, he was promoted to the position of Senior Lecturer in the Department of Sociology, Psychology and Social Work and then Head of the Department in 2003 until 2007. In 2006, he was elevated to the title of Professor of Comparative Sociology, and appointed Dean on August 1, 2016. Professor Boxill also served as the Carlton Alexander Professor of Management Studies and Director of the Centre for Tourism and Policy Research, a post he held from 2010 to present.

The UWI’s senior executive management team and extended community of faculty and staff, students, alumni and council members extend their support and warm regards to Professors Webber and Boxill and wish them every success in their new capacities of service to the regional institution.

The University also conveys its sincere gratitude to Professor Archibald McDonald and Professor Ishenkumba Kahwa for their distinguished service to the campus.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Inga Rhonda King, President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), at the Handover Ceremony of the ECOSOC Presidency held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Thursday, 26 July 2018.

Excellencies,

Members of the Bureau,

Distinguished Delegates,

Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is an honor for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and for me to serve as the President of the Economic and Social Council for 2018-2019. It promises to be a defining year, which could help set a new course for the work of the Council and the HLPF held under its auspices.

I would like to thank the members of the Council for reposing their confidence in me and electing me to this important office. I will rely on all of you to help define the path forward so that the Council and the HLPF can live up to your expectations and those of the people we serve.

I thank the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States for its endorsement and for the faith placed in me as the region’s representative on the bureau as vice president during 2017-2018 and now as president of the Council for 2018-2019.

I wish also to make special mention of my colleague, Her Excellency, the distinguished Ambassador Maria Emma Mejia Velez of Colombia, the founder of the Group of Friends for Gender Parity – I must express my sincere admiration and appreciation for her leadership and dedication to championing women like me, for encouraging us to step up and step into leadership roles. My friend and colleague, Maria Emma Mejia Velez, I thank you!

I thank you for being instrumental in ensuring that the fourth female President of the ECOSOC is also now the first woman from our region to hold the post and the first from the Global South. As you approach the end of your tenure here at the UN, know that you will be missed but know too that you have left a real legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

I must also pay special tribute to my predecessor, Her Excellency, Ambassador Marie Chatardova, of the Czech Republic, whose leadership and vision I will continue to rely on over the next year, it was a privilege to work with you.

I will endeavor to build on the work you have begun, including your emphasis on inclusion and participation. To my fellow bureau members, Ambassadors Jerry Matthews Matjila of South Africa, Marc Pecsteen of Belgium and Mahmad-amin Mahmad-aminov of Tajikistan, I have enjoyed the camaraderie and friendship that we shared over the past year and will continue to rely on your advice.

My main priorities as president will be to deliver a successful HLPF and revive the ECOSOC. Yes, you heard me correctly, with your committed participation, we will revive the ECOSOC using in full the hard-won innovations introduced by the General Assembly Resolution A/72/L.64 on the Review of the implementation of General Assembly resolution 68/1 on the strengthening of the Economic and Social Council.

Here, I would like to appeal to all of you, ECOSOC Member States. When we signed up to be Members of this Council, we also committed to participate in its work and to ensure that it delivers on its functions. There has been some dissatisfaction with the functioning of ECOSOC over the recent few years. But in the coming 12 months, let us work together to restore the “deliberative function” of ECOSOC, as clearly stated in Resolution A/72/L.64, and its policy guidance and coordination role. As we move forward in this new cycle, my aim is to bring the Council together to consider how best to make this a reality.

Let us not focus only on what does not work. Let us not criticize and skirt meetings we do not consider useful.

Instead, let us focus on what does work well and why. Let us reflect on how we can make ECOSOC deliver fully.

In my view, we have an institutional framework and an outline of the areas where you would like the next Bureau to focus. You would like to see a revitalized High-level Segment that is forward looking. It should stimulate our thinking on how long-term and future trends, including new technologies, could impact the realization of the sustainable development goals. We should be proactive in looking for ways to harness the opportunities and become more resilient to potential risks. I intend to convene periodic dialogues with thought leaders to catalyze our thinking in preparation for the High-level Segment.

You have also expressed the desire to have a more impactful Integration Segment that leverages the Council’s Functional and Regional Commissions and other expert bodies to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

These bodies should also be more action and solutions-oriented in their work so as to strengthen the Council’s own work. This requires us to have meaningful engagement with the subsidiary bodies and be prepared to give specific guidance. I am committed to engage with their bureaux on planning their contribution to the work of ECOSOC and the HLPF as well as to spearhead the review of their working methods just mandated by the GA.

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates:

Let me move now to the centerpiece of my priorities: The High Level Political Forum.

The 2019 High-level Political Forum will complete the HLPF cycle under the theme “Empowering people and ensuring inclusiveness and equality” while reviewing SDG 4 (education), SDG 8 (Growth and employment), SDG 10 (inequality), SDG 13 (climate change), SDG 16 (peaceful societies and robust institutions) and SDG 17 (Means of Implementation).

It would be important for us to think together about how the thematic and national voluntary reviews could be further improved, building on the enthusiasm and successes of the first three years. I intend to share some specific ideas with you in the not-too-distant future as I continue taking stock of lessons learned and suggestions made during the HLPF in the past two weeks. Your calls for a more integrated approach to thematic reviews of SDGs, given the interlinkages among them, is well taken.

Next year will be unique. The HLPF will not only meet under the auspices of ECOSOC in July, but also under the auspices of the General Assembly in September when our Heads of State and Government will review the entire 2030 Agenda. We will have to think of ways to strengthen the conduct of the next cycle of reviews while looking towards the 23 SDG targets that are set for 2020. We must also prepare for the reviews of the HLPF and ECOSOC during the 74th session.

I am also keen to improve ECOSOC’s contribution to the HLPF. The work of its subsidiary bodies, in addition to its Segments and Forums, is extremely valuable and relevant for the 2030 Agenda. We must find ways to bring their analysis and policy proposals to the fore to enrich the work of the HLPF. And we should do so with the full participation of young people.

No opportunity should be missed to give voice to their ideas and vision for the future they want. I also believe that we should continue to find ways to mobilize civil society, including Non-Governmental Organizations, Academia, Scientists and the private sector to push for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. We are all in this together!

I also count on your support to deliver a “strengthened” operational activities for development segment, as envisioned in resolution A/72/L.64 on strengthening ECOSOC and General Assembly resolution 72/279 on the repositioning of the UN development system. Our guidance and overall coordination of the UN development system will be key in ensuring coherence, coordination and accountability for the UN system’s support to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development calls for an integrated approach to achieve policy coherence across sectors. This is true not only for Member States at the national level, but for us at the intergovernmental level. We need more effective engagement with other intergovernmental bodies, including the Peacebuilding Commission, to harness the interlinkages among the peace and security, human rights and development pillars of the United Nations.

Excellencies, Members of the Bureau, Distinguished Delegates:

One of the issues of existential concern to Member States, especially small island developing states, is climate change. It is a threat to development gains made so far as well as the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. During the Presidency of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, I intend to highlight the transformative actions that can be taken to help countries manage climate change and become more resilient.

2019 is an opportune moment for us to raise our ambition and galvanize action for our climate commitments. And ECOSOC has a key role in demonstrating the interlinkages between climate change and other SDGs. This would allow us to also contribute to the mid-term review of the SAMOA Pathway in 2019 and to the preparations for the review of SDG 13 on Climate Action.

I believe ECOSOC’s contribution would help Member States overcome the silo-approaches in the implementation of the commitments made in the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the SDGs, in the lead up to the Secretary-General’s 2019 Climate Summit.

Our agenda for this coming year is no doubt ambitious as is required by the scale of the 2030 Agenda and the challenges that we face. I believe that together we can advance, together we can strengthen the Council, and together we will harness the energy and enthusiasm of the HLPF to promote higher standards of living and conditions of economic and social progress and sustainable development. Needless to say, we will do so strictly within the boundaries of our mandates though we should remain open to convening special meetings, as appropriate.

With the support of the Under-Secretary-General and his team in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs and the support of the entire UN system, we can address these tasks that we have set for ourselves over the next year.

I once again congratulate and warmly welcome the newly elected bureau members, H. E. Omar Hilale of the Kingdom of Morocco, H. E. Tore Hattrem of Norway, H. E. Teodoro Lopez Locsin Jr, of the Philippines [Eastern Europe Candidate still to be elected] … You are all very accomplished diplomats and professionals and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you … I will count on your many years of experience and your wisdom to help guide us in making this year a success.

I really do look forward to working with you. Indeed, I am delighted!

Again, I want to express my special appreciation to my esteemed predecessor for the legacy that I can now build on.

For the SDGs to keep progressing, we must make sure the HLPF remains a visionary and action-oriented platform.

For the Council to make a positive difference, it must adapt to the rapidly changing environment that we are facing in the 21st century. I strongly believe that the Charter mandate makes this possible. A lot is at stake and we can deliver.

I will count on your support.

Thank you.

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(HOLIDAY PLACE) – Travel + Leisure magazine readers have voted the Jade Mountain resort in Soufriere as St Lucia’s best hotel, with its sister property, Hotel Anse Chastanet also featuring in the top five. During the recent celebration of T+L World’s Best Awards 2018, both beautiful resort properties scooped up the first and third place, respectively, which means their management must be doing something very right indeed.

Jade Mountain has come on top of all St Lucian hotels, and not only that, St Lucia itself has won the highest number of accolades in this year’s edition of Travel + Leisure 2018 World’s Best Travel Awards.

According to a recent press release published by St Lucia News Online, readers of Travel + Leisure (T+L) magazine voted the Jade Mountain resort in Soufriere as the number one hotel in the island (and the second best in the Caribbean) with its sister hotel Anse Chastanet ranked not too far behind in the third position.

Both exquisite properties have plenty of things in common, for one they were both designed by Nick Troubetzkoy, who is also the owner of the two and created an exclusive holiday lifestyle out of his concept of building in harmony with Caribbean landscapes with bold architectural designs that put guests in direct contact with nature.

At the 2018 World’s Best Awards, the Jade Mountain was also included in the “Top 100 Hotels” in the World list, another accolade worthy of praise given the highly competitive level of all participating destinations and their hotels.

The category of “Best Hotels in the Caribbean” at this year’s Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards included 12 countries and territories, but according to travel editor Jacqueline Gifford, St Lucia was the one country to have the most winning hotels in the region, with five formidable properties taking home the prize. Special praise was given to the honeymoon appeal of Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet resort, whose spectacular open-air rooms impressed guests.

In the words of one honeymooner at Jade Mountain:

“The service, private beach, and views were incredible. We hope to go back for our 10th anniversary.”

Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards survey asks readers to draw from personal travel experiences around the world to rank different destinations, hotels, cruises, airlines, spas and attractions and share their opinions on the quality of service provided. In the case of hotels, they are voted for in terms of location, service, food, facilities and overall value.

Other winning St Lucian hotel in this edition of T+L World’s Best Awards included Cap Maison, Ladera and Marigot Bay Resort and Marina, all of which made the “Top 25 Resort Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas” category, while Anguilla’s Frangipani Beach Resort took the top spot in the region.

Crediting her exceptional team and hotel staff members for the win while thanking voters for their participation, Karolin Troubetzkoy, the resort’s executive director (and wife of owner and hotel architect Nick Troubetzkoy), said:

“We would like to extend special thanks to Travel + Leisure’s readers who have once again recognised that small, luxury, sustainability and top St. Lucian service make a formidable combination…”

Jade Mountain was ranked in the 56th position at the “Top 100 Hotels in the World” list, where the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan took the crown.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – Saint Lucia Distillers, acknowledged as one of the foremost rum distilleries in the Caribbean, is launching the Bounty Rum brand in the United Kingdom during Notting Hill Carnival (26th & 27th August 2018), the biggest carnival in Europe, in collaboration with Export Saint Lucia through it’s “Taste of Saint Lucia” Export Brand and the award- winning mid-century tiki bar Trailer Happiness – 177 Portobello Road, London.

“This new release will complement the existing brands of Chairman’s Reserve and Admiral Rodney, whilst establishing the origin of Saint Lucian rums” says Philip Gillier, Export Manager at Saint Lucia Distillers. Bounty Rum – “The Spirit of Saint Lucia” – is the most popular brand in the Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia. Launched in 1972, the brand is a staple of Saint Lucian life and is enjoyed by all Lucians as the national rum brand.

Bounty has become a national icon and sponsors a whole range of cultural events such as Carnival, Independence Day, Jounen Kwéyὸl (Créole Day) and local community days (Friday Night Jump Up). Sly Augustin, Owner of Trailer Happiness adds “As a Saint Lucian living abroad, I am very happy and proud to take part in the launch of Bounty Rum in Europe, which couldn’t have taken place anywhere else but at the Notting Hill Carnival, celebrating Caribbean culture in London since 1966. Bounty Rum is the ultimate Carnival Rum brand from Saint Lucia”.

Bounty Rum will be officially launched in the UK through spirits importer Emporia Brands this summer and will sponsor Trailer Happiness on Portobello Road and The Pioneers Festival throughout the Notting Hill Carnival weekend.

The Bounty Rum range consists of six rums: Bounty Premium Gold (RRP £21.49 per 700ml), Bounty Premium White (RRP £21.39 per 700ml), Bounty Dark (RRP £22.49 per 700ml); and three flavoured rums: Bounty Spiced (RRP £21.59 per 700ml), Bounty Coconut (RRP £16.69 per 700ml) and Bounty Lime (RRP £16.69 per 700ml).

All rums are blended with distillates from Saint Lucia Distillers’ unique Coffey Still with the exception of Bounty Dark which has some pot still to give further character and complexity. All of the rums are aged for a minimum of 2 years before bottling.

This comprehensive range of rums enables the consu mer to get a flavour of Saint Lucia. The versatility of the range gives bartenders the opportunity of mixing both traditional cocktails as well as experimenting with exotic flavours.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The Msgr. Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) has been receiving donations of equipment following the destruction of its cultural assets and holdings by the fire of March 25th 2018.

FRC’s work programme had been seriously affected by the loss of all its equipment and efforts are continuously being made to obtain the necessary equipment for business continuity.

A needs assessment list has been drawn up by the Organization. The items that are urgently required were being sourced locally and overseas.

Equipment donated thus far are as follow:

Two (2) scanners provided by St. Lucian Mr. Denis Ishmael who lives in Georgia USA.

One (1) desktop computer provided by Computer World (St. Lucia)

One (1) desktop computer provided by Computer amp; Business Services

One (1) desktop computer provided by a concerned friend of FRC

One (1) Multi-function printer provided by J.E Bergasse & Company Ltd.

One (1) laptop computer donated by Flow

A ceremony to thank the various donors will be held at FRC’s office in the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) at Barnard Hill on Tuesday August 7, 2018 at 10:00am.

At the ceremony a cheque will be presented to FRC by Mrs. Magaret Lubrin Aoki, a St. Lucian who lives in Japan. On hearing of the calamity that befell the FRC, she organized a fund-raising activity in Japan specifically to assist the FRC.

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(L-R): Sariah Best-Joseph – Divisional Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Massy Stores; Gregory Joseph – 2018 Walk Organiser, Club GAR; Glen Simon – President, SLBWA; Anthony Bristol – Executive Member, Club GAR

(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – At the recently held closing ceremony for Club GAR’s annual “Walk 4 A Cause”, the recipient of this year’s fundraiser, the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association (SLBWA), was presented with a cheque in the amount of $93,300 which was the largest donation given to any charity from a private entity in St. Lucia to date.

Club GAR is proud to announce that Massy Stores, in an effort to give back to the community and support Walk 4 A Cause, has donated $6,700.00 which brings the total contribution to $100,000!

An updated cheque presentation to the SLBWA was held on Thursday 2nd August, 2018 at the Massy headquarters in Choc Bay. Sariah Best-Joseph of Massy stated, “We recognise there is a major role for the private sector to use their financial resources to assist with the overall development of our country … and if we come together, there are many beautiful things we can achieve.”

Echoing this sentiment was Club GAR Executive Member, Anthony Bristol who commended Massy Stores management team for coming on board even after the hype of the Walk was over. He also made a plea for St. Lucia’s business sector to plan ahead and maximise their corporate social responsibility.

For the past five (5) years Walk 4 A Cause has been designed to raise funds and awareness for local charities and national social programs, and this year’s walk was themed Walk 4 Sight. Club GAR along with the Massy Group and all its partners and sponsors fully support the SLBWA and its activities – from the life changing surgeries and treatments, to the education and social support that this charity provides not only for persons who are visually impaired and for those with multiple disabilities, but to the entire population.

Club GAR wishes to once again recognise all corporate partners, sponsors, participants and volunteers for their part in setting this milestone.

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – The Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) Inc. is set to mark the commencement of another water project, this time in the south of the island.

Dubbed the Ti-Rocher/Micoud Water Supply Project, works are scheduled to commence in August and will include the laying of a 100mm (4”) PVC and Ductile Iron Pumping Main of approximately 6.88 km (22,571.85 linear ft) along the entire route – from the WASCO Micoud Treatment Plant at Micoud through to WASCO’s 100,000 Imperial Gallon Tank, located at Morne Desir, Ti-Rocher/Micoud.

The project which was conceptualized under the stewardship of former Micoud South MP Arsene James in over a decade ago. Funding for the project for this long overdue project was secured from the Republic of Taiwan on China.

Three local contractors from the Micoud South Constituency have been awarded contracts for the work which is expected to run for a period of four months from Monday 6th August, 2018, to Monday 26th November, 2018.

A team of technicians from WASCO along with Management officers have planned to meet with residents soon at the Micoud Multipurpose Centre, to further explain what the project entails and why it has become absolutely necessary to undertake the improvement works.

Wasco’s General Manager Edmund Regis has indicated that “The intended works will bring relief to residents of Micoud south upon completion of the pipe connections from the Micoud Treatment Plant to the storage tank.” He has also indicated that “Most importantly, the supply of water to residents who already have water connections will not be interrupted during the project period. However, motorist should take exercise caution while travelling along the route as of the date of commencement.”

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(PRESS RELEASE VIA SNO) – As the I Love Beer Promotion nears its finale, Windward and Leeward Brewery (WLBL) pulled out all the stops to reveal the second grand prize winner in its Under The Crown promotion.

Against the backdrop of the picturesque Pigeon Island, WLBL treated loyal beer drinkers and patrons to a selection of popular tunes, fantastic giveaways and great entertainment on Sunday July 29th, whilst local celebrity announcer, Mr. Jordan, hyped up the crowd and beach goers as the highlight of the evening drew near.

The I Love Beer Promotion has not only received incredible commendation from its loyal consumers, but it has received thousands of entries across the island. Evidence to that, on Sunday evening the WLBL shocked patrons by utilizing a concrete mixer truck to assist with selecting the prize winner.

Brand Manager, Sylvester Henry commented, “For us, it was the first time that we had to use a mixing truck from Rayneau & Company.

This is just a testament to to how many entries we had and how many people love their beer. Seeing that mixer spin and the anticipation of who would win created such a great energy that we are even more so looking forward to the draw for the Subaru. ”

Despite the large number of entries, there could only be one winner of a Suzuki GSX-R Motorbike, which was revealed to be Adesia Emmanuel of Morne du Don, Castries.

“I love my Heineken® Beer!” Adesia exclaimed as she revved her Motorbike for the first time. “I am very glad that I won this prize.”

Adesia joins the ranks of our first Grand Prize Winner, Adrian Medard, who was awarded $10,000.

Consumers still have a chance at winning the Extraordinary Grand Prize of a 2018 Subaru SUV, by collecting six (6) I Love Beer Crowns, of the same beer brand— Heineken®, Guinness®, Amstel® or Piton®. Entries can be submitted, with an entry form, at any of these locations: Cheaperz, Uptown Supermarket, Plante’s Place, Golden Apple, Twist 2 for 1, River Bank, Raphael Willie, Savers Mart, Mama Rosa, Raymond & Co., Marigourmet and Total Auto. Consumers have until August 17th, 2018 to redeem their instant prizes and to also qualify for the Grand Prize Draw.

Entrants must be 18 and over to participate in the I Love Beer Promotion and are reminded to enjoy responsibly.

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(SNO) – Members of the Goodwill Fishermen’s Cooperative Society of Vieux-Fort have forced the organisation to postpone its Annual General Meeting which was scheduled for last Sunday, July 29, 2018, after it was announced that the auditor’s report was unavailable.

When it was revealed that the report was not available, the disgruntled members expressed frustration and anger, demanding that the meeting be postpone.

According to the concerned members, they were given conflicting report as to why the report was not available. One member told this reporter that the auditor wanted more money to carry out the audit, while another said he understood that the auditor was not furnished with important documents from the Cooperative to carry out the audit.

“I am very disappointed. This nonsense must stop. The entire board of directors has to go…” Andre Miller, a member of the Cooperative, told this reporter in disgust.

He added that they have not received dividend from the Cooperative for some time now.

According to Miller, the registrar of the Cooperative has given Goodwill 30 days to call another AGM.

“We wanted to hear the auditor’s report… Fisherfolks are no longer stupid. Right now we have young and intelligent people in the industry…” another member told this reporter.

The members have also accused the Cooperative of conflict of interest.

For the past three years, the Cooperative has not held an AGM, and it is of grave concern for its members, who feel that there is something “fishy” about the situation.

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