Countries pledge added support to GEF funds for urgent climate adaptation

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Antigua News Room
Conrod-C.-Hunte

n an important injection of support to countries facing the worst effects of climate change, seven donor governments pledged new funding for the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) during the COP27 climate summit and several others backed the funds’ ambitious goals for meeting the most urgent adaptation needs.

Announcing a total of $105.6 million in new funding, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Walloon Region of Belgium, stressed the need for even more support for the Global Environment Facility funds targeting the immediate climate adaptation needs of low-lying and low-income states.

Additionally, countries including Belgium, Canada, France, and the United States, as well the European Commission, signaled political support for the two funds, and some expressed an intention to contribute further in the coming months. Several welcomed the SCCF’s dedicated focus on Small Island Developing States as a key avenue of climate finance that is otherwise lacking.

Please see the donor governments’ joint statement for amounts pledged by country.

LDCF and SCCF recipient countries welcomed the new support and called on other countries to also step up their financing as soon as possible.

“Small Island Developing States cannot afford to wait when it comes to building climate resilience and dealing with extremes. We are highly appreciative that the GEF’s Special Climate Change Fund has a new funding window focused on supporting the unique adaptation needs of SIDS,” said Conrod C. Hunte of the Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, who is Lead Negotiator of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). “We also welcome the strong political support from donors for the SCCF, but this needs to be translated into real funding commitments without delay.”

The new pledges add to $413 million that 12 donor countries pledged to the LDCF at COP26 in Glasgow last year. Delivering the promises of the Paris Climate Agreement, including providing adaptation finance for those who most need it, is a major topic of discussion at the COP27 summit in Egypt.

“I am encouraged by these specific pledges announced today and especially by the signals of political support we are hearing for the adaptation priorities of Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries,” said Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility, which manages the LDCF and SCCF. “The GEF is committed to enabling these highly climate-vulnerable countries plan for a safe and sustainable future even in crisis conditions. The LDCF and SCCF are designed to do just that, and this new funding will help ensure climate finance gets to where it is most needed first.”

“Adaptation funding for the poorest and most vulnerable nations is not an expense, it is an investment in the safety and well-being of millions of people,” said Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change. “I am heartened by these contributions, which send an important signal that leading governments recognize the urgency of dealing with the climate crisis and the importance of supporting countries on the front lines of climate change.”

The LDCF is the only dedicated source of climate adaptation finance for the 46 Least Developed Countries, which have generated the least carbon emissions yet face some of the highest risks from a warming planet. The SCCF finances innovative approaches to scaling up climate adaptation in developing countries, including through technology transfer. It has a special funding window for Small Island Developing States seeking support.

Earlier this year, the GEF’s member countries endorsed a new strategy for both funds so they can provide more targeted, dedicated support for climate-vulnerable countries as they work to build a more resilient future and implement their National Adaptation Plans. The GEF programming strategy for the next four years anticipates that the LDCF will provide between $1 billion and $1.3 billion for Least Developed Countries, and that the SCCF will provide between $200 million to $400 million for Small Island Developing States and other climate-vulnerable developing states.

“The United States has long been a supporter of the GEF. We welcome the new programming strategy on adaptation to climate change for the LDCF and SCCF. We are especially pleased to see the SCCF’s focus on small island developing states and its plans to grow private sector investment in adaptation. The time is now to invest in adaptation and build resilience for the future we want.” said Monica Medina, Assistant US Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs.

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Battle Between Jamaica DPP  And Antigua DPP

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Antigua News Room
Anthony Armstrong

 By Rawlston Pompey

Even as those in their respective disciplines and in their own rights as scientists, have sought to influence human’s thought processes and behavioral patterns, human nature is just what it is. It is likened to ‘Murphy’s Law.’ Those that believed in this adage, know that it speaks to a ‘Pre-determined Destiny.’ It says; ‘Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.’ Still, there are some things that have ‘Foreseeable Consequences,’ that can be averted. Still, there are some situations that are as inescapable as they are unavoidable. Even so, those that delight themselves in making life more difficult than nature, have caused for their fellow-men, adversities of all kinds, untold miseries and despair.

MOST SCRUTINIZED

Likened to other jurisdictions, the ‘Two Most Scrutinized’ government agencies have been (i) ‘The ‘Police Service; and (ii) Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.’ Though their role and functions are practically different, office holders know that key to successful ‘Public Prosecutions’ are; (a) ‘Proper criminal investigations; (b) Martialing the evidence; and (c) A functional approach; (d) Inter-agency cooperation; and (e) Respect for areas of responsibility.’ These agencies are headed by those that have commendably acquitted themselves, as to be seen as competent, efficient and behaviorally, exemplary.

REEK OF SUSPICION

Not infrequently, there have been ‘Changing Scenes of Life.’ There have been man-engineered adversities of one kind or another. Frequently, these are often ‘Reek of Suspicion.’ Through collaboration between the ‘Police Services of Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda and Jamaica,’ needlessly, the global community has been made aware of the experiences of ‘Antigua and Barbuda Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong.’ When Jamaican-born national ‘Anthony Armstrong’ boarded an Airline from ‘V.C Bird International Airport (VCBIA)’ destined to his native Jamaica,’ he knew not what lay ahead.

PERSPECTIVE

This commentary seeks not to ‘Defend Faith;’ nor is it intended to invite ‘Fate’ upon the adversity-struck ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Anthony Armstrong.’ Thus, it does not speak to the ‘Merits or Demerits’ of the Case, of which he has been made the subject of criminal prosecutions. Its primary purpose is to lend a ‘Professional Understanding’ of the seemingly misunderstood ‘INTERPOL Red Notice entails.’ It also looks at the behavior and employable strategy of some criminal investigators. It is dedicated to attorneys with a criminal practice. That which suspects seem not to know is that they owe no obligation to no one to voluntary submit themselves to be questioned by any investigator. While some formalities are done, criminal investigation is generally not done at Police Stations or sitting at an office desk.

DEDICATION

It is dedicated to (i) ‘An esteemed Attorney-at-law Charlesworth Tabor; and (ii) Dr. Dave Ray.’ The latter, an apparent objective, but seem more critical over the author’s writing style, than of the content. At this juncture, none shall be reminded of what ‘St. Paul’ has said. For the benefit of those who do not remember, he was scripturally quoted saying; ‘Every man to his own order’ [1 Corinthians: 15: 23]. Congratulations to the partly despised/loved ‘J’Truth.’ Not only for sticking to his ‘Own Order,’ but also in lifting the coveted and prestigious ‘Leonard ‘Tim’ Hector Award’ [ANR: November 7, 2022]. Suffice to say, the prestigious ‘Award’ necessarily demands purity of expressions. Many shall find the contents serious, yet humorous.

EVENT OF NATURE

It shall do no harm reflecting upon the ‘Wrath’ nature descended upon ‘Port Royal.’ Historians appeared not to have been descriptively kind to that ‘Ancient City.’ They have described it as ‘One of the wickedest places on earth’ [June 7, 1692]. That which descended upon the City, saw some two-thirds of the land mass disappeared. Seemingly, without the advent and benefit of ‘Information and Technology,’ before residents shall have been advised; (a) ‘Drop; (b) Cover; and; Hold on,’ likened to a torpedoed ship, it was left listless and helpless by an estimated ‘7.5 Magnitude Quake’ [Wikipedia].

MORNING SUN

Historical accounts, revealed that; ‘The morning that opened brilliantly fine; There was said to have been glorious sun shining down on the earth from a cloudless sky; …There was no indication, neither to man, nor beast of the coming disaster.’ Under the blazing, yet tolerable morning Sun, and just before midday-11.43 am, there were said to be roaring sounds. Without a Zoo, residents obviously knew they were not sounds of hungry lions. Though it had nothing to do with ‘Inclemency of Weather,’ the sounds were said to have roared like thunder. Still, they were not preceded by lightning.

WRATH OF NATURE

Eerie feelings gripped those inside. No attempts were made to venture outside. Instead, residents on the outside reportedly scampered inside. In the instant situation, the nearest building was good for shelter. For a great many of the frightened and disoriented residents, it spelled disaster of a magnitude that was never before experienced. To the survivors, it marked the ‘Changing Scenes of Life.’ Violently the city rocked, and instantaneously, it submerged beneath the ocean by a ‘Tidal Wave.’ Today, it may have been called a ‘Tsunami.’ So was the destructive attitude of nature. This appeared evident from the wrath descended upon it by one of the ‘Forces of Nature.’

WATERY GRAVES

The earth shook with such violence, that buildings collapsed. Dust rose to the heavens, while debris fell down. The earth opened up with rents that took in everything. Men, women and children’ submerged under a turbulent wave, leaving some ‘2,000 residents’ to rest quietly in ‘Watery Graves’ [Wikipedia]. Whatever their hopes and dreams and aspirations, in the twinkle of an eye, the occupiable land mass of the ‘City of Port Royal’ disappeared. in the twinkle of an eye, a sizeable portion of the ‘City of Port Royal’ became non-existent. So too, were their hopes, dreams and aspirations. For in the twinkle of an eye, the occupiable land mass disappeared from view. The experiences of ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong,’ bears no comparison. Yet, he bears witness to his world being collapsed, firstly by an embarrassing ‘Red Notice,’ and secondly, by ‘Apprehension’ [November 6, 2022].

DEPRIVE AND DESTROY

The unpredictable ‘Nature of Man,’ has been no different. Man continues to ‘Deceive; Deprive; and Destroy.’ Though he has peacefully transitioned to another place, the name and social commentaries of ‘Sir Rupert Philo, Dean of Calypso,’ lives on in the memory. Whether or not a fan or follower, friend or foe, his social commentaries are stark reminders of man’s evilness and wickedness to man. Many shall recall the lyrical contents of one of his most telling commentaries; ‘Man to Man.’ Sharing his experience, he said; ‘They say man to man is so darm unjust; …You don’t know who the hell to trust.’ The deceased artist appeared to have been prompted to perform this song when, through ‘Deception and Treachery,’ friends and work-colleagues; ‘Bad-talk me to an Airline company; …In the end they make ‘LIAT’ fire me.’ [1978: Mighty Swallow].

DEVIOUS AND DANGEROUS

There have been some developments that have been seen as ‘Stranger than Fiction.’  Conversely, there have been human behaviors, though not fictional, when exhibited, have often boggled the mind. The ‘Creative Miracles of God,’ saw humans being born of flesh and blood. Each is presumed to be endowed with ‘Reason and Conscience.’ In men and women of the attained age of majority, these combined, are said to guide human behavior. Today, as has been in the distant and recent past, humans have been exhibiting behaviors that are as ‘Devious,’ as they are ‘Dangerous.’

SEEDS OF DECEPTION

When criminal investigators, seemingly sown ‘Seeds of Deception’ in his mind, and wooed him back to Jamaica for ‘an Interview,’ they had successfully disguised their prosecutorial intentions. Moreover, when factually and unprofessionally, law enforcers with ‘Reckless Abandon’ breached ‘INTERPOL Protocols,’ by sharing ‘Confidential Electronic Mail’ with those in whom no ‘Police Powers,’ reside, know that the ‘Die of Criminal Prosecutions’ had been cast. When Jamaican-born national ‘Anthony Armstrong’ boarded an Airline from ‘V.C Bird International Airport (VCBIA), destined to the ‘Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA)’[Jamaica], he knew not what lay ahead [November 6, 2022].

LONG ARM OF LAW

Whether or not ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong’ traveled to Jamaica, China or India,’ on the premise of being interviewed by criminal investigators, criminal suspects know that the wind blows from the four cardinal points of the earth. Some East: some West; Some North; and some South. On the ocean, there are usually ‘Choppy Seas.’ In the open airspace, there are usually ‘Turbulences.’ On terra firma, people are blown all over. Some to Church and some to jail.’ Clearly and emphatically, there was no evidence or even suspicion that he has been on the run from ‘Jamaican Justice.’ Factually, the world now a ‘Global Village,’ and with the advent of ‘Information and Technology,’ it certainly does not allow him to have been that elusive for very long before the ‘Long Arm of Law’ pulled him in.

FORFEITING LIBERTY

Privilege information revealed he was officially informed that his travel was specifically for the purposes of ‘Criminal Interviews.’  He appeared not to have been alerted that he run the risk of ‘Forfeiting his Liberty.’ Informally, he may have been given an inkling. Though he was destined to his homeland, with such inkling, true or false, even ‘Angels’ would have been fearful to leave ‘VC Bird International Airport (VCBIA),’ let alone travel to his ‘Twice-Yearly Itinerant Destination- Jamaica.’ Inflight restrictive movements, may have been extended only by visits to the onboard sanitary facility. These may either have been due to gripping fear and/or ‘Calls of Nature.’

DECEIVED AND TRICKED

Inescapably, he was ‘Entrapped and Nabbed’ by a ‘Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) female detective. Reportedly exhibited behavior that seem neither to have reflected professional knowledge, nor professionalism.’ Such exhibition was said to speak to scant respect for ‘Human Dignity.’ Fully cooperative, the unsuspectingly tricked, lured and nabbed Antigua and Barbuda Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong,’ was reportedly left ‘Dejected and Flabbergasted’ over the unexpected turn of events He maintained both self-control and his mental faculties. Then irate, befuddled-brain ‘Attorney Hugh Wildman’ appeared not to have concealed his emotions. Embarrassingly, he too felt ‘Deceived and Tricked.’ In -pre-arrival discussions, he may have taken a ‘6 for a 9.’

SPIDER AND FLY

Likened to the fabled story of the ‘Spider and the Fly;’ he saw his client flew carelessly into a ‘Police Web.’ Then all flying was over. Though clearly not a fable, he shall have been mindful of the ‘Spider/Fly Story.’ He could never have been naïve in believing that such exercise, he would have been airborne on the Army helicopter to take in a spectacular view of ‘Waurika Hills.’ When he traveled out of ‘Antigua and Barbuda,’ for reasons then best known to ‘INTERPOL’ and himself, it shall have been obvious that it was a ‘Cardinal Mistake.’ He may have taken a ‘Calvin Ayer Chopper’ and fly right here over ‘Antigua and Barbuda.’

BEWARE OF SUBTERFUGE

There might be a lesson to be learnt from ‘Law Enforcement Instructional Guide.’ It states; ‘Beware of Subterfuge.’ Notwithstanding his constitutional prosecutorial role, where citizens either perceived or harbored belief that there were some courses of action may have been influenced by the environment, he is still owed; (i) ‘The protection of law; (ii) Presumption of innocence [CO: 1981: Section 15]; (iii) Due process; (iv) Equality of treatment; and (v) Fair and public trial before the Court’ [1948: UDHR: Article 10]. From a strictly professional perspective, the apparent ‘Ill-advised and Ill-Fated’ return to ‘Jamaica’ of ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong’ appeared merely for the completion of arresting formalities.

INVESTIGATIVE STRATEGIES

Today, as has always been the case, given certain employable ‘Investigative Strategies,’ persons shall know that ‘Red Notices’ or not, law enforcers have never been starved of ‘Investigative Ploys.’ This is so, whether or not a ‘Notice’ exists or cancelled. That which occurred on arrival at ‘NMIA,’ speaks more to the ‘Corruptible Influence’ of the environment, than of want of professional and procedural training. Even so, the ‘Jamaican-counterparts of certain members of the ‘Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda,’ appeared to have exploited ‘Confidentiality Chinks’ within the local chapter of ‘INTERPOL.’

RED NOTICES – RED FLAGS

It is also widely known that most ‘Commonwealth Nations’ have international obligations that as requests are formally made, they shall discharge those obligations. None shall feign ignorance of these. Whether or not persons are seen as ‘Fleeing Justice,’ they shall, with utmost suspicion, take all ‘Red Notices’ serious. They shall always regard them as ‘Red Flags.’ As in the case of ‘danger,’ they shall see such ‘Notices’ as indicating the ultimate, but inescapable- Arrest.’ Given his ‘professional adversities and legal troubles,’ inferences might reasonably be drawn that ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Anthony Armstrong’ may have been unsuspectingly deceived and tricked.  Then likened to a length of invisible thread, ‘Lured and Entrapped’ for the ‘Jamaican Nab’ [November 6, 2022].

ADMINISTRATIVE WORRY

Consequent upon the initiated course of action, it could hardly escape reasonably drawn inferences that shall cause ‘Administrative Worry’ to ‘Commissioners of Police Atlee Rodney KPM and Major General Antony Anderson CD, JP, MDA, BEng (Hons).’ That which shall so cause worry, shall be their supposedly ‘Confidentially Impenetrable INTERPOL Units’ within their respective ‘Police Service.’ Whether or not acting collaboratively, one or both of these ‘Units’ seemed to have been ‘Environmentally Exploited.’ Thus, without explicable and/or justifiable reasons from ‘Law enforcement Heads,’ an openly shared observation was an apparent organizational activity, capable of being identified as ‘Corrupt Practice.’

FLIGHT FROM JUSTICE

Those familiar with law enforcement and have dealt with ‘Cross-border or organized-crimes,’ shall rely upon the assistance of the ‘International Police Organization (INTERPOL).’ Whether or not from ‘China or India; or Antigua and Barbuda or Jamaica,’ the membership of this organization may seek such assistance by requesting the issuance of a ‘Red Notice.’ This has brought internal terror, but only to those taking ‘Flight from Justice.’ The often misunderstood, ‘Notice’ has never been ‘an International Arrest Warrant.’ Among the primary purposes are (a) ‘Alerting every Law enforcement jurisdiction of sought-after notorious criminals on the run; and (b) Ascertaining the whereabouts of fugitives.’

CASES ON POINT

In fact, it silently speaks to apprehension when a ‘Request for Extradition’ has been formally made; and (d) A Provisional Arrest Warrant’ has been duly issued by the ‘Appropriate Authority’ [ANU: No.12 of 1993: Section 9 (4)]. The Cases against; (i) ‘Convicted former Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC), Leroy King; (ii) The wealthy-lucky Indian Billionaire, diamantaire Mehul Choksi; and (iii) Convicted rapist former British Police officer, Lee Martin-Cramp’ make the point. In the case of both convicts, no ‘Red Notices’ were necessary to be circulated to the universal membership of ‘INTERPOL.’

ENTANGLED WITH CRIMINAL LAW

Both nations knew where the accused had residency. Instructively, the young ‘British Bobby,’ then vacationing on ‘Antigua and Barbuda’ was said to have been on a ‘Social Rendezvous’ with a female medical student. She was then pursuing medical studies within the jurisdiction. Seemingly overwhelmed by desires of a sexual nature, and with apparent reckless abandon, got ‘Entangled with the Law’ He was accused of committing a sexual act of against her. [May 2015]. However, before completion of criminal investigations, the accused reportedly made his way back to the ‘United Kingdom’ [May 2015].

FORMAL REQUEST

In respect to the e ‘Fraudster (King) and Rapist (Cramp),’ the ‘United States and Antigua and Barbuda’ complied with requirements of the ‘Extradition Law.’ Both nations made ‘Formal Requests’ for their return to face prosecution. Ironically, the ‘Extradition Request’ for the return of the alleged rapist was made by ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong.’ Seemingly satisfied and overjoyed with his ‘Prosecutorial Performance,’ an ecstatically happy ‘Attorney General, Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin’ was quoted in media reports saying that he was ‘pleased with the hard work of the DPP, who is determined to ensure that all delinquent persons are brought to justice’ [Observer: September 4, 2018].

RISKILY AND UNWITTINGLY

From a professional perspective, it was never said; could never, and could never have been said that the ‘Antigua and Barbuda DPP,’ had been a ‘Fugitive-at- Large.’ Though it may not be necessarily so, likened to many other ‘Global Police Services,’ some personnel seem to savor that which appeared to be a ‘Clique Culture of Corruption.’ Research has shown that he was never accused of committing a cross-border crime. Neither has he been evasive or has opportunistically taken fight from justice, thereby sought ‘Haven’ in the jurisdiction of ‘Antigua and Barbuda.’ Though ‘Jamaica’ has been his country of domicile, and he enjoys ‘Freedom of Movement,’ he may have been the victim of ‘Unsafe Advice,’ Conversely, if he acted on his own volition, then it shall be seen that he ‘Riskily and Unwittingly’ traveled back to Jamaica.

SPIRIT OF DISCERNMENT

Moreover, ‘Sir Ron’ may have known that whether or not considered a ‘Suspected Person,’ no one is obliged to incriminate him/herself in any criminal wrongdoing.’ He had not employed or relied on his special skills. That which may have distinguished ‘Diplomatic Skills’ from ‘Prosecutorial Skills,’ may very well have been the ‘Spirit of Discernment.’ A local news portal reported that ‘Detective, Superintendent Nuffield Burnette’ made a ‘Media Request’ for the former Ambassador to ‘present himself to the Police.’ Investigators not only had sight on him as a ‘Person of Interest,’ but also wished interview him on the ‘Controversial Ishikawa Jima Heavy Industries (IHI) Fraud Investigations’ [Martina Johnson: Antigua Observer: January 4, 2012].

REASON OR REQUEST

Irrespective of ‘Reason or Request,’ likened to ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong, ‘Sir Ron’ was never declared a ‘Fugitive from Justice.’ From a professional perspective, ‘Fools’ were never known to have successfully committed certain ‘Frauds.’ Thus, it may take a ‘Fool’ to expect ‘Fraudsters’ to present themselves to criminal investigators to be handcuffed and slapped with ‘Fraud Charges.  Sir Ron, sent no media delivered ‘Messagesto ‘Superintendent Burnette.’ He seemingly never contemplated sending messages or travelling anywhere to be penned. He possesses no ‘Praying skills’ nor ‘Singing talents,’ comparable to those of ‘Silas and Paul’ [NIV: Acts 16: 16 40]. Thus, whether or not he was wanted for an ‘Interview or Interrogation,’ even if his name was ‘Deed Poll’ to be called ‘Carl,’ ‘Sir Ron’ would still not travel to ‘Antigua at all.’

THESE TRUTHS

None shall deny that the ‘Prosecutorial Prowess’ of ‘Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), was widely known. None may also deny that he has caused ‘Substantial Revenues’ from ‘Confiscated Monetary Assets’ flowed into the ‘Cash-strapped Nation.’ None may also deny, that likened to water flowing downward to the sea from ‘Country Pond,’ the ‘National Economy,’ breathed sighs of relief. If so indulgently craved, attestations to ‘These Truths’ may come from ‘Chief Magistrate Joanne Walsh and Director of ONDCP, Lt Colonel Edward Croft.’ He was not ubiquitous. His ‘Whereabouts’ were well known within the ‘Caribbean Community (CARICOM); the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS); Canada; United Kingdom; Russia; and the United States of America.

WOLF AND FOX

None, therefore, shall feign ignorance of these facts. Research has shown that he recently participated in a ‘Virtual CARICOM Conference,’ as background to his photograph suggests. The Conference, reportedly hosted by the ‘United States and United Kingdom.’ The ‘Conference’ brought together ‘Crème-de-la-crème’ of ‘Public Prosecutors. Their representatives provide irrefutable ‘Evidence of Knowledge’ of the whereabouts of ‘Anthony Armstrong.’  The identifiable participating territories, included ‘Directors of Public Prosecutions’ from: (i) The apparent ‘Wolfish ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: (ii) The Bahamas; (iii) Barbados; (iv) Belize; (v) Commonwealth of Dominica; (vi) Grenada; (vii) Guyana; (viii) The apparent conniving and cunning fox JAMAICA; (ix) St. Kitts/Nevis: (x) St. Lucia; (xi) St. Vincent and the Grenadines; (xii) Trinidad and Tobago; and (xiii) British Overseas Territories’ [ABN: February 8, 2021].

FACTS AND KNOWLEDGE

Ironically, representing ‘Jamaica’ was ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP),Paula Vanessa Llewellyn CD, KC,’ while ‘Anthony Armstrong’ represented his adopted nation, ‘Antigua and Barbuda.’  Research has revealed that this esteemed female legal luminary,’ has held the prestigious office of ‘DPP’ for ‘some 14 years’ [Jamaica: 2008]. She has done her ‘Internship on Antigua and Barbuda’ [Wikipedia]. Given these ‘Truths,’ none, inclusive of those with ‘Forked Tongues’ shall deny not to have been seized of ‘Facts and Knowledge.’ Moreover, no regional ‘Director of Public Prosecutions’ and no ‘Minister of Legal and Foreign Affairs’ shall depreciate the value of his prosecutorial practice.

REPUTATIONALLY WOUNDED

Left abandoned, jaded and dejected, distraught and despaired, ‘Anthony Armstrong’ appeared to have been ‘Reputationally Wounded.’ If it shall not to be believed that ‘Environmental Influence’ was not at work, then it shall beg no question as to; (i) ‘At the highest level, ‘Why did it take the ‘Andrew Holness Administration’ and ‘Major General Antony Anderson-led Police High Command’ this long to cause ‘INTERPOL’ to disseminate a ‘Red Notice’ to the international community? (ii) Why caused the issuance of such ‘Notice,’ when his; (a) ‘Place of residency: (b) Employer: and (c) Prosecutorial position’ were well known to all a sundry? (iii) Why was the Notice immediately cancelled? and (iv) Why were his prosecutorial services retained with disciplinary proceedings precariously hanging over his head for seventeen (17) years [October 17, 2005 – November 1, 2022]?

TREACHEROUS STRATEGIES

When Law enforcement personnel, knowingly and seemingly collaborated with foreign agencies by employing ‘Treacherous Strategies,’ intended to destroy the professional careers of others, the ‘Treacherous’ shall know that they run the risk of traversing down dangerous precipices to their own professional destruction. They shall also know that ‘Spiritual Fire’ shall burn their consciences to ashes. The ‘Plot Thickened.’ Privilege information revealed that mere hours before flight time, confirmation of travel by ‘DPP Anthony Armstrong to Jamaica’ [November 6, 2022]. Such revelation suggests incubation of a ‘Plot of Collaboration.’ That which shall not be omitted from this commentary is this. It is to be understood that universally, Law enforcement shall ‘Cooperate and Collaborate’ in the fight against ‘Organized-Crimes.’

ROLES AND FUNCTIONS

In the case of the ‘Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and Office of Director of Public Prosecutions,’ likened to many others, the officers in their respective fields of endeavor, appear to have distinguished themselves exceedingly well. These are the highly reputable charactered; (i) ‘Major General Antony Bertram Anderson [March 19, 2018]; and (ii) Jamaican Crown Prosecution Service, DPP Paula Vanessa Llewelyn Surely, these two highly visible and upstanding ‘Public Figures’ have been under constant public scrutiny. Research has shown that crime and a recent public spat, have placed the spotlight on their respective ‘Roles and Functions.’

SHODDY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS

Disabusing public of spotlighted ‘Perceived Prosecutions/non-prosecutions of 40 Cases’ [OCG: Jamaica Gleaner: November, 25, 2011]. Such perception is bad for everything; bad when a conviction is obtained, and bad when an acquittal is given. More fundamentally, ‘Bad’ when no prosecutorial proceedings have been expeditiously instituted against those of ‘Affluence and Societal influence.’ Respecting the ‘Jamaica Police Service,’ the former, charged with superintendence of this ‘Disciplined Organization,’ has always been deemed to know those personnel inclined to breach ‘Organizational Discipline,’ or breach ‘Standardized Operationalized Procedures.’ Such procedures were purposefully designed to enhance professional competence, efficiency and effectiveness. Consequent upon such procedures, there shall be no ‘Rush or Bomb Jobs.’ Neither shall there be ‘Shoddy Criminal Investigations.’

COLLABORATIVE STRATEGIES

In the ‘Eastern Caribbean,’ more specifically ‘Antigua and Barbuda and Jamaica,’ persons holding the constitutional position of ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP),’ have been as visible as the sun shining down on ‘Darkwood Beach’ [ANU], as on ‘Dunn’s River’ [Jamaica]. Privilege information suggest that mere hours before travel, a law enforcement officer reportedly initiated a call to a ‘Person of Interest’ to a regional jurisdiction. Instructively, this was said to ascertain if he/she was travelling to a particular destination. As one of the ‘Collaborative Strategies,’ know that such person would be greeted by criminal investigators upon arrival at the designated ‘International Airport.’ Those endowed with an ‘Inquisitive Mind,’ shall have anticipated that adversity was not only looming, but also about to strike.

INVESTIGATIVE STRATEGIES

Even without the use of ‘Diplomacy,’ this had not, and could not have happened to ‘former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sir Ronald ‘Ron’ Saunders.’ He appeared to have been legally and properly guided. He knew that no matter how crafted or how fanciful the language, there has been no such written ‘Legal Concept’ as ‘Persons of interest.’ That which he also may have known was that no person has any obligation to surrender themselves to criminal investigators for questioning.’ He appeared to have known that except ‘Compulsion by Arrest,’ no person may visit a ‘Police Station,’ whether or not on; (a) ‘Request: (b) Appeal; or (c) Instructions of investigators.’ These are merely informally-developed ‘Investigative Strategies.’

MIND OF THE NATION

Even if in hindsight, it could never be said that recent developments within the ‘Crown Prosecutions Chambers,’ was the result of ‘Diligent Negligence.’ arrived in this jurisdiction and capped the ‘Directorship’ of the prestigious prosecutorial position, it was a position not nationally appreciated by both the electorate and public officials [ANU: October 17, 2005].  Seeds of ‘Division; Doubt and Disillusionment’ had been firmly sown in their hearts and etched in the ‘Mind of the Nation.’ Some have harbored, and firmly held views of justice as one of ‘Expediency.’

GYMNASTICS

Interestingly, his appointment came when a particular administration seemed to have been playing ‘Gymnastics’ with the office of the ‘Director of Public Prosecutions.’ Thus, for reasons of; (a) ‘Prosecutorial expediency; (b) Administrative distrust; and (c) Allegations of political interference,’ two (2) ‘Directors of Public Prosecutions (DPPs)’ had been hired and fired, while a third had been hired and retained. That which was considered ‘Privilege Information,’ was an apparent ‘Prosecutorial Agenda,’ foisted upon the office holders. This came after the removal of ‘former Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Cosbert Cumberbatch’ [2004].

SUBJECT TO LAW

Even when elements within the environment sough to impose their will, as to be seen as seeking to influence prosecutorial decisions, ‘Crown Prosecutors,’ shall show no tolerance to any such overture, no matter if incentivized. Thus, they shall fiercely resist any attempt to derail or ‘Pervert the Course of Justice.’ It shall be made sufficiently clear that ‘Justice’ is neither for sale nor barter. Today, the ‘Prosecutorial Duties’ of current ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Anthony Armstrong’[ANU], has been overshowed by events and actions that clearly seem adverse, both to his reputation and practice. Now placed awkwardly in a reversed position, though energies might be sapped, he shall pour his energies and imaginations into achieving a successful outcome. He shall also use his wit in directing his efforts and energies in activities necessary to overcome reputational damage, as he endeavors to seek ‘Justice and fair play.’

FATE AND FUTURE

Recognizing the constitutional right to the ‘Presumption of Innocence’ [CO: 1981: Section 15 (2)].’ ‘Public Prosecutors’ shall primarily concern themselves with the administration and fair and equitable dispensation of justice.’ Though his ‘Fate and Future’ now rest awkwardly in the hands, heart and head of a counterpart, he shall find some comfort in the ‘Constitutional presumption of innocence.’ Moreover, his spirit shall be fortified, and hope strengthened in a ‘Judiciary,’ that has often been promoted by ‘former OECS Chief Justice, Her Ladyship, Dame Janice Pereira’ as the ‘Bastion of Hope.’ This he shall keep alive. That said, it shall be shown, nationally, regionally and internationally, yet non-discriminatingly, that every legal practitioner engaged in a ‘Prosecutorial Capacity,’ are all ‘Subject to Law.’ They know what the concepts: (a) ‘Prima Facie Evidence: (b) Prima Facie Case; and (c) Prospect of conviction’ are all about.

FAIRNESS AND BALANCE

Not infrequently, ‘Commissioners of Police’ are subjected to punishing uncomplimentary sentiments by the citizenry. When it was not about spike in crime, it was ‘Disciplinary Exhibition’ by a small group of ‘errant, corrupt and depraved personnel.’ For the purpose of this commentary, and as far as was known, for reasons of ‘Fairness and Balance,’ it has neither been the delight, embracement, nor condonement of any ‘Commissioner.’ Rightly or wrongly, some were perceived as being impotent and ineffective, when behaviors that have the potential to bring discredit upon ‘Police Services,’ appeared not to have been given immediate corrective or sanctionable attention.

ATTORNEY/CLIENT DISPUTES

Given the apparent ‘Shoddy Treatment’ reportedly dished out to ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong,’ reasonable inferences might be drawn that exuberance and intolerance, seemingly compounded by lack of supervision, may have been the ‘Influential Factors’ in the manner reportedly acted. In ‘Attorney/Client Disputes’ over property, seemingly starve for legitimacy, such may have been alternatively looked at as a ‘Tortuous Wrong.’ In such case, an aggrieved party may have been advised to litigate against his attorney. Conversely, acquisition of property by means capable of being described as ‘Proceeds of Crime,’ public interest’ often dictated particular courses of action.

INFLUENCES OF CORRUPTION

Those well-positioned to guide the thinking of a ‘Population of the Ignorant,’ saw no wisdom in enlightening those starved of intellect and knowledge of what the administration and dispensation of justice, are all about. Added to the difficulty in delivering ‘Promised Justice,’ policy-makers are no more dangerous to ‘Personal Liberty,’ than are criminal investigators, doing ‘Rush Job’ and presenting ‘Crushed Results.’ It has been the professional knowledge that investigators guided by the ‘Influence of Corruption,’ have done the unthinkable. Some have not only brought ‘Discredit to Police Services,’ but also ‘Self-destruction’ upon themselves.’ A Case that makes the point has been the ‘corrupted, disgraced, convicted and jailed criminal detective, ‘Mark Fuhrman’ [United States].

IF IT DOESN’T FIT – THEN ACQUIT

Corruptibly seeking to have admitted into evidence, a ‘Blood-stained half-pair of Gloves.’ This reportedly occurred in the high- profile ‘O’J. Simpson Murder Trial.’ To all intents and purposes, he sought to present ‘Tainted Evidence,’ reasonably suspected to have been ‘Planted’ at the crime scene. The single issue had been the cogent legal arguments advanced by then ace Defence Attorney, the venerable ‘Johnnie Cochran.’ He simply sought to, and impressed upon the mind of the Jury; ‘If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit’ [4NBC: June 10, 2014: USA]. It shall never be seen or heard that the ‘Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF)’ has cloned females of the persona of ‘Mark Fuhrman.’

LEAKED INTERPOL NOTICE

It now behooves ‘Commissioners of Police,’ to be seen as administratively strong and purposeful. Should there be Commissioners not positioned to be seized of ‘incompetent, inefficient and errant’ among rank-and-file members, then ‘Laisser-faire Commissioner’ can expect the expected.’. Should the courses of action, initiated against ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong,’ including the ‘Leaked Interpol Red Notice’ not considered purposefully engineered and seen not as serious ‘Breach of Confidence,’ then ‘Commissioner, Major General Anthony Anderson,’ may wish to explain to the ‘Accused DPP,’ just what is?

COURTING ENVIRONMENT

Those that sought courtship with the environment shall know that they are ‘Flirting with Danger.’ They shall know that ‘Environmental People’ invariably ‘Kiss on one cheek and bite on the other’ [Former Commissioner of Police Alvin Goodwin: RPFAB]. In hindsight, ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Anthony Armstrong’ may have been somewhat naïve not to have been circumspect over information that a ‘Red Notice,’ purportedly issued by ‘INTERPOL’ at the request of his native ‘Jamaica,’ had been cancelled. A ploy had seemingly worked. He may also have been too naïve in believing that cancellation, meant an interview.

CONCLUSION

That which now seems to have deleterious effect on the relationship between the ‘Police Service’ and Office of the ‘Director of Public Prosecutions,’ might be law enforcement behavior and resulting ‘Turn of Events’ in Jamaica.’ A legal practice and a nurtured and successful ‘Prosecutorial Practice,’ spanned over ‘17 years [October 17, 2005], appears to be on a collision course, should ‘Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Anthony Armstrong’ be indicted on ‘Conspiracy and Forgery Indictments.’ Except; (a) ‘Prima facie evidence; (b) (b) Reasonable prospect of conviction; and (b) Events of some kind prompts recusal,’ it seems likely that his female Jamaican-counterpart ‘DPP Paula Vanessa Llewelyn CD, KC.’ The latter with prosecutorial longevity of just ‘over 14 years’ [March 5, 2008-], may be a force with which Defence Attorney, Hugh Wild man may very well have to reckoned. Finally, whatever, if anything, he may have conceived removable at trial, and whatever thoughts he may have long harbored, it shall be nothing ‘Wild.’ Only an acquittal based on ‘Reasonable Doubt.’  ***

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Ehpad: perquisitions lancées dans plusieurs établissements Orpea

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Martinique FranceAntilles

Plusieurs perquisitions ont été lancées mardi dans des établissements du groupe privé Orpea, dans le cadre d’une enquête préliminaire pour “maltraitance institutionnelle” menée à Nanterre, a indiqué le…

Plusieurs perquisitions ont été lancées mardi dans des établissements du groupe privé Orpea, dans le cadre d’une enquête préliminaire pour “maltraitance institutionnelle” menée à Nanterre, a indiqué le parquet, confirmant une information de Mediapart.

Ces perquisitions ont débuté mardi matin, jour où le groupe de maisons de retraite médicalisées privées présentait son plan de transformation, tentant de convaincre qu’il pouvait redresser la barre et assainir ses pratiques et ses finances.

Ces perquisitions, “menées dans toute la France”, doivent s’étaler “sur plusieurs jours”, a précisé une source proche du dossier à l’AFP, les gendarmes de l’Office central de lutte contre les atteintes à l’environnement et à la santé publique (Oclaesp) visant un total de “plusieurs dizaines d’établissements” d’Orpea.

Contacté par l’AFP, Orpea a assuré être “mobilisé pour apporter son soutien aux enquêtes en cours”.

En juin déjà, le siège du groupe et des directions régionales avaient fait l’objet de perquisitions dans le cadre de ce volet d’enquête pour “maltraitance institutionnelle”, mais aussi dans le cadre d’un autre volet, creusant des infractions financières présumées.

L’exploitation de cette perquisition de juin est toujours en cours.

Orpea, présent dans 23 pays et qui gère plus de 350 établissements en France, est dans la tourmente depuis la parution en janvier du livre-enquête “Les Fossoyeurs”, écrit par le journaliste Victor Castanet.

Le journaliste y dénonce une maltraitance des résidents, un usage abusif des fonds publics et des manquements dans la gestion du personnel.

A l’issue de deux enquêtes administratives, le gouvernement avait fait un signalement à la justice. Fin avril, une enquête à deux volets, l’un pour maltraitance institutionnelle et l’autre pour infractions financières, avait été ouverte par le parquet de Nanterre.

Ces investigations avaient été jointes à une enquête déjà en cours pour des infractions à la législation du travail.

Le volet de maltraitance institutionnelle repose notamment sur une cinquantaine de plaintes de familles de résidents pour “mise en danger de la vie d’autrui”, “non-assistance à personne en danger”, “homicide involontaire” et “violence par négligences”.

L’avocate Sarah Saldmann en représente une grande majorité. “Ces perquisitions sont une bonne chose, cela permettra peut-être de mettre en lumière certains agissements éventuels et non identifiés jusqu’ici”, a-t-elle déclaré à l’AFP.

Parallèlement, Orpea a porté plainte contre X et une enquête préliminaire a été ouverte mi-mai, notamment pour abus de biens sociaux.

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Au G20, le grand retour de Xi Jinping sur la scène mondiale

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Martinique FranceAntilles

C’est le dirigeant que tous veulent rencontrer au sommet du G20: Xi Jinping occupe le devant de la scène, après presque trois ans d’isolement diplomatique qu’il…

C’est le dirigeant que tous veulent rencontrer au sommet du G20: Xi Jinping occupe le devant de la scène, après presque trois ans d’isolement diplomatique qu’il s’est imposé en raison du Covid-19.

Sur l’île tropicale indonésienne de Bali, le président chinois a mené mardi un marathon de rencontres après un entretien la veille avec son homologue américain Joe Biden qui a permis d’atténuer les tensions bilatérales.

Sourires, poignées de main chaleureuses, promesses de discussions sur le climat et le commerce: Xi Jinping a voulu se présenter comme un dirigeant responsable, prêt à affronter les défis mondiaux.

Il “s’efforce certainement de rattraper le temps perdu sur la scène internationale” avec cette “opération séduction”, estime Danny Russel, vice-président du cabinet Asia Society Policy Institute à New York.

“Le sommet Biden-Xi a fait naître l’espoir que les deux puissances sont désormais disposées à traiter sur un plan différent leurs responsabilités mondiales et leurs différends bilatéraux”, juge cet ex-haut fonctionnaire du département d’Etat américain.

Au programme diplomatique de Xi Jinping lors du G20: des rencontres (entre autres) avec les présidents français Emmanuel Macron, sud-africain Cyril Ramaphosa, sud-coréen Yoon Seok-youl et indonésien Joko Widodo (hôte du sommet) ou encore le Premier ministre australien Anthony Albanese. 

Il devrait également s’entretenir avec le Premier ministre japonais Fumio Kishida lors du sommet du Forum de coopération économique Asie-Pacifique (Apec), lequel se tiendra jeudi et vendredi à Bangkok.

L’absence du président russe Vladimir Poutine, isolé diplomatiquement en raison de l’invasion de l’Ukraine, renforce par ailleurs le statut de Xi Jinping en tant que principal contrepoids aux Etats-Unis.

“Ligne de crête”  

Le président chinois et Joe Biden sont arrivés à Bali revigorés par les récents événements politiques dans leurs pays respectifs.

Xi Jinping a été reconduit en octobre à la tête du Parti communiste chinois (PCC) et son homologue américain a vu les élections de mi-mandat aux Etats-Unis être plus favorables que prévu au Parti démocrate.

Accompagné de ses principaux responsables de la diplomatie et des nouveaux hauts dirigeants du régime, Xi Jinping n’a toutefois pas transigé sur les intérêts fondamentaux de son pays. 

Il a rappelé à Joe Biden que l’avenir de Taïwan était “la première ligne rouge à ne pas franchir dans les relations sino-américaines”.

Xi Jinping n’a pas non plus infléchi sa position sur l’Ukraine. Il n’a ainsi toujours pas condamné publiquement la Russie pour son opération militaire.

La Chine est soulagée par l’absence de Vladimir Poutine au G20, car elle lui évite de devoir manoeuvrer entre un soutien –même timide– au locataire du Kremlin et la condamnation unanime de l’Occident, selon des analystes.

“Xi est sur une ligne de crête. Il veut apparaître comme un dirigeant international respectable tout en soutenant Poutine”, déclare à l’AFP Michael McFaul, professeur de relations internationales à l’université Stanford et ex-ambassadeur des Etats-Unis en Russie.

La Maison Blanche a indiqué que MM. Biden et Xi s’étaient mis d’accord “sur le fait qu’une guerre nucléaire ne devrait jamais être menée et ne peut jamais être gagnée”.

Une claire réprimande à la Russie… même si la mention du nucléaire ne figure pas dans le communiqué officiel chinois.

Contraste avec Moscou

“L’absence de M. Poutine concentre davantage l’attention sur M. Xi et lui donne plus d’opportunités de faire valoir ses points de vue”, explique par ailleurs Chong Ja-Ian, professeur de sciences politiques à l’Université nationale de Singapour.

“Ne pas avoir à rencontrer Poutine, avec qui M. Xi donne l’impression d’avoir des liens étroits, cela lui permet aussi de ne pas avoir à défendre ou à critiquer les actions russes.”

Le ton plus cordial que prévu du sommet sino-américain a également permis de rendre les entretiens bilatéraux suivants plus détendus.

Lors de sa rencontre mardi avec Anthony Albanese, Xi Jinping a ainsi appelé à “améliorer” et “développer” les difficiles relations diplomatiques, lors du premier sommet bilatéral depuis plus de cinq ans entre les deux pays.

“Xi Jinping bénéficie du contraste entre la Chine et la Russie, que plusieurs des dirigeants présents (à Bali) établissent”, souligne Andrew Small, analyste du German Marshall Fund, un centre de recherche américain.

“L’image que M. Xi entend projeter dans cet endroit qu’est le G20 n’est pas celle d’une République populaire de Chine conflictuelle, mais plutôt d’une entité raisonnable, capable de gérer les questions mondiales de manière responsable.”

lxc-oho/ehl/lch

Emmanuel Macron et le président chinois Xi Jinpinglors du G20 à Nusa Dua à Bali en Indonésie le 15 novembre 2022
• Ludovic MARIN

Le président chinois Xi Jinping (g) avec des membres du nouveau Comité permanent du Politburo du Parti communiste chinois dans le Grand Hall du Peuple à Pékin le 23 octobre 2022
• Noel CELIS

Le Premier ministre australien Anthony Albanese lors du G20 à Nusa Dua à Bali en Indonésie le 15 novembre 2022
• KEVIN LAMARQUE

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Some schools closed early, others had low attendance amid taxi strike Loop Jamaica

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Jamaica News Loop News

The Ministry of Education has confirmed that several schools across the island closed early, while some were affected by low attendance as a result of the ongoing strike by taxi and bus operators.

According to the ministry, only Region 5, which comprises the parishes of St Elizabeth and Manchester, reported “no adverse impact of the withdrawal of services by the transport operators on schools”, with all having “normal operations”.

The ministry, in a statement Monday evening, pointed to reports from its regional offices, which indicate that while some students were late and a number of teachers were absent, most classes were conducted in the face-to-face modality.

In Region 1, which covers Kingston and St Andrew, the ministry said 95 per cent of the schools operated the face-to-face modality, with the remaining five per cent using remote and mixed modalities.

It said two schools — Tivoli High and Kingston High — dismissed classes at midday due to staff shortage.

In Region 2, which comprises St Thomas, Portland and St Mary, one school reported early closure at 1pm because four teachers were unable to get to the school. The region also reported lower-than-normal attendance and late arrivals.

A St Mary High School teacher told Loop News that once she got wind that transport operators were withdrawing their services, she made preparations for online class.

“I take my safety very seriously, so I was not about to attempt to get to school. Last week we had a protest in St Mary [over bad roads], and the attendance was significantly affected. We have students coming from St Andrew, Portland and St Catherine. How will they get to school?” she reasoned.

In St Thomas, Principal of Yallahs High Mark Malabver said most of his staff turned up to school, however, not many students were present. He had planned to use the school bus to transport students, however, that plan was shelved as the bus had to be serviced.

In Region 3, comprising St Ann and Trelawny, Cedric Titus High in Trelawny dismissed classes at 12:30pm because the taxis had stopped moving by then, and Bounty Hall Primary, also in Trelawny, operated remotely. Otherwise, there were no disruptions reported, the ministry said.

In Region 4 — St James, Hanover and Westmoreland — 22 of the 25 schools were open for face-to-face instruction.

Three high schools — Merlene Ottey, Spot Valley and Mannings — engaged their students using the virtual modality. Two primary schools also engaged students virtually, while the other 138 operated normally.

Region 6, which is the entire parish of St Catherine, reported that all schools operated using the mixed modality approach, except one which had a broken sewerage system. Most schools in the urban centres dismissed classes early, while those in the rural interior operated in person with no disruption.

In Clarendon, which is Region 7, all schools in the town areas were affected by low attendance. They employed the mixed modality.

The rural schools were not affected and operated as per usual. The affected schools were dismissed early, the ministry said.

Earlier in the day, Education Minister Fayval Williams urged school administrators not to lock out students or send them home randomly where they turned up for classes late and where there was an inadequate number of teachers.

“The safety of the students and leadership are critical at this time,” the minister said.

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Pedestrian struck by vehicle hospitalized

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: Antigua News Room
SLB-MSJMC

Pedestrian struck by vehicle hospitalized

Nathan Joseph of Urlings is currently at sir Lester Bird Medical Center receiving medical treatment after he was struck by a vehicle.

The allegations are that the driver of a Ford Pickup was traveling from north to south on Valley Road in the vicinity of Old Radio Lighthouse when the pedestrian was alleged to have crossed the road from East to West and was struck by the said vehicle.

He complained of pain in his body and was transported to the hospital by EMS.

A doctor reported that his condition is stable; however, he will be kept for further observation.

The incident occurred around 8 pm on Monday. The police at Bolans Police Station are continuing investigations into the matter.

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AFC is a separate entity, allowed to skip LGE – Norton

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: INews Guyana
PNC Leader Aubrey Norton and AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

In the wake of coalition partner Alliance For Change’s (AFC) decision to boycott the Local Government Elections (LGE), Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has said that A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) will make its own position on contesting the election known at the right time.

In an interview with this publication, Norton noted that if the AFC came to a decision that it was not in their best interest to run for LGE 2023, then they have all rights to take the course of action they have taken.

According to Norton, the smaller party is a separate entity. When it comes to APNU and whether they will come to a similar decision, Norton said that this will be made known when the time is “right”.

“The AFC is a separate entity. And it can make a decision to not participate. That is their right… this is not something for me to have thoughts on. The AFC as a political party, they are a part of the coalition, but they are a party by themselves,” Norton said.

“Our party will declare our decision at the right time. We continue to protest for a new voters’ list. But we also have constituents. We are consulting with them. And the decision will be made at the right time,” Norton further explained.

On Sunday, the AFC announced its decision to bow out of contesting the upcoming LGE, a decision the party supposedly arrived at due to its concerns over the list of electors and after much debate. It added the caveat that it would not contest unless there are changes to the list of electors.

The party claimed that the list of electors is ‘bloated’, an often-repeated claim of its coalition partner, APNU. The party also echoed concerns of its partner, which is yet to confirm if it will participate in LGE, that the list contains the names of Guyanese who migrated.

According to the Constitution of Guyana and previous court cases, however, Guyanese who have migrated cannot be removed from the list of electors since residency of Guyanese citizens is not a requirement to vote.

This was demonstrated since 2019, when Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George ruled that the removal of the names of persons from the list of registrants, who were not resident in Guyana and could not participate in the House-to-House Registration exercise, would be unconstitutional. Her decision was subsequently upheld in the Court of Appeal.

The requirements for a person to vote, as set out in Articles 59 and 159 of the Constitution, are that that person must be 18 years or older, and must be a Guyanese citizen or a Commonwealth citizen resident and domiciled in Guyana.

The AFC also said in their statement that the electoral system is not perfect and that they were not willing to “perpetuate a deception”. They further said that they would support postponing LGE until their definition of a “clean” voters’ list is arrived at.

AFC’s pull-out from contesting LGE comes at a time when the smaller party is already receiving diminished returns whenever it goes to the polls. Such was the case in 2018, when the party, then part of the APNU/AFC coalition Government, was forced to contest LGE on its own. It ended up securing just four per cent of the total votes cast.

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has already designated December 12, 2022, as nomination day for the upcoming LGE, which are set to be held next year March.

On nomination day, parties make their way to a designated location, where their representatives are usually required to submit their list of candidates to the Chief Election Officer, as well as sign on to the required documents, such as a code of conduct, to contest the elections.

These representatives are usually accompanied by a large retinue of their supporters, dressed in party colours, although all the parties who submit symbols do not always make a grand entrance or even go at all.

Parties, voluntary groups and individuals are meanwhile required to submit their symbols in accordance with Section 48 (1) of the Local Authorities (Elections) Act, Cap 28:03. The law requires that these symbols be submitted at least 21 days before nomination day.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), has already signalled its readiness to contest the upcoming LGE. As far back as August, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who is the General Secretary of the PPP/C, had said that the party is in preparation mode for LGE.

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Some 60,000 persons suffering from diabetes locally

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: INews Guyana

An estimated 60,000 persons in Guyana are suffering from diabetes – some of whom do not know their status.

On Monday, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony shared that many diabetic patients access healthcare at clinics and other facilities. However, there is a large percentage who remain undiagnosed.

“We have some estimates that would say about 60,000 people in Guyana are probably diabetic. Some of them know that they have diabetes and they would come to the clinic. There are a lot of persons who qualify as diabetics but they don’t come to the clinic. Some of them remain undiagnosed because of that,” the Minister divulged.

It was highlighted that these persons show up to the hospital after other complications develop.

“We want to ensure that people do not wait until they develop complications. They should come before and get checked. If you’re obese, between 40 and older, it’s time you get a check-up.”

According to Dr Anthony, there are about 150 persons suffering specifically from type one diabetes. The Health Ministry has been providing insulin to them, since they cannot produce their own. Type one diabetes, known as insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition. In this condition, the pancreas makes little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone the body uses to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy.

“We have maybe 150 persons that we know are type one diabetics. These are young people who have been diagnosed with diabetes and the Ministry has a programme where we are providing them with insulin because their bodies are not able to make insulin on their own,” he noted.

Early signs and symptoms can include tiredness and hunger, frequent urination, increased thirst, vision problems, slow wound healing, and yeast infections.

Guyana has over 400 health facilities – each of which is equipped to make diagnoses and handle diabetic cases.

“It is also important that the care that we provide is comprehensive because it is one thing to put a person who has been diagnosed on treatment. If they don’t attend to the other factors, then sometimes it’s difficult to control the blood sugar.”

Diabetes can also cause renal diseases, leading to kidney failure. In Guyana, more than 290 persons are on dialysis, stemming in most instances from diabetes.

The Minister contended, “If we manage the person’s blood sugar well, then we can prevent these complications from occurring. That is why it is so important if you have been diagnosed as having diabetes that you come and make sure you get treatment to prevent these complications from happening.”

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76% of self-employed persons fail to file tax returns – AG report

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: INews Guyana

The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) collected over $240 billion in revenue in 2021, but the Auditor General has flagged the fact that some 76 per cent of self-employed persons did not file tax returns.

According to the Auditor General report of 2021, 87,267 self-employed persons did not file their income tax returns, out of 114,838. This means that only 27,211 persons, or 24 per cent, filed their tax returns, which totalled $4 billion.

In total, GRA collected $242 billion for 2021 as revenue. Additionally, $255 billion in total was collected and paid over to the Consolidated Fund, which holds Government funds and is housed at the Bank of Guyana.

The Auditor General noted that there were substantial shortfalls in income tax on the self-employed. Also falling short were personal and corporate tax, the environmental levy, liquor licence, travel tax and Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported goods and domestic supply.

The excise tax on petroleum products also showed a shortfall in revenue collection. In the audit report, however, GRA explained that for 2021, the revenue target was revised from $242 billion to $254.9 billion.

As pertains the fuel tax, Government has been slashing the excise tax on fuel for a while now, lowering the excise tax rate on both gasoline and diesel, from 50 per cent to 35 per cent in February 2021, then from 35 per cent to 20 per cent in October 2021. This is in keeping with Government’s policy to adjust the taxes on fuel, to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices on the world market.

In October, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh had said that gas prices at the pump charged by GuyOil would be reduced from $269 per litre to $215 per litre.

Additionally, diesel prices were reduced by 15 per cent from $265 per litre to $225 per litre. These changes took effect from October 2, 2022.

Dr Singh had explained that during the first half of 2022, global oil prices surged more than 50 per cent, increasing from US$77 per barrel at the end December 2021 to US$120 in June of this year. In fact, oil prices rose as high as US$137 per barrel primarily as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“The impact of the dramatic increases in oil prices were significant and given the interconnected nature of the global economy, translated into higher cost of landing fuel in Guyana. In order to mitigate the impact of rising global fuel prices on domestic consumers and the productive sectors to which fuel is a key input, the Government lowered the excise tax rate on both gasoline and diesel from 10 per cent to 0 per cent in March of this year.”

“It would be recalled that, previously, during the Budget 2022 presentation, the Government lowered the excise tax on both gasoline and diesel from 20 per cent to 10 per cent so as to minimise the impact of rising global oil prices,” the Minister had further explained.

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OECS Swimming Championship Ends In Saint Lucia – St. Lucia Times News

Black Immigrant Daily News

The content originally appeared on: St. Lucia Times News

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Saint Lucia played host to one of the most important sub-regional swim championships held from November 11th to 13th in the island’s north.

Antigua & Barbuda emerged winners this year, and are now set to stage next year’s event.

Marvin St. Louis tells us more:

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SOURCE: Ministry of Youth Development and Sports

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