In a significant development, Esworth Lewis, the pharmacist accused of attempted murder following a shooting incident in Calder, was granted bail on Thursday. This decision came despite the victim, Omarie Pereira of Biabou, remaining in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH). Lewis had initially been denied bail during his first court appearance on Monday at the Serious Offences Court. However, Chief Magistrate Colin John reconsidered the decision after reviewing the evidence presented by the investigating officer, Corporal Kevron Jack. Jack testified that he had visited Pereira on Thursday morning and confirmed that while the victim was still in the ICU, he was no longer dependent on life support and was breathing independently. Based on this update, the prosecution, led by Inspector Renrick Cato, withdrew its objection to Lewis’ bail. The court set bail at EC$30,000 with one surety and imposed reporting conditions. The case has been adjourned to October 30. Lewis is alleged to have shot Pereira twice in Calder on October 10, leading to the attempted murder charge.
标签： Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
圣文森特和格林纳丁斯
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Concrete falling through hospital ceiling; nurses stop ‘hands-on work’
Nurses at the Maternity Ward of the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital have ceased hands-on patient care due to severe safety concerns stemming from falling concrete debris from the ceiling. The issue, which began approximately two weeks ago, has escalated, prompting the nursing staff to take a stand for their safety and that of their patients. According to a nurse speaking on behalf of her colleagues, a large piece of concrete recently pierced through the ceiling, narrowly missing a delivery room. The incident occurred during a critical moment when a nurse was preparing the room for an emergency delivery. The nurse also highlighted additional concerns, including water leakage and mould in delivery rooms, as well as excessive heat and patient mixing in the ward. Despite multiple reports to the hospital’s administration and maintenance departments, no action has been taken to address these hazards. The nurses have now decided to suspend hands-on work until the situation is resolved, emphasizing the need for a safe environment for both healthcare workers and patients, particularly newborn babies and expectant mothers. Currently, two patients remain in the ward, with nurses prioritizing their safety.
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PM confirms Canada asked that Huggins be removed as CG
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has acknowledged that former Consul General to Toronto, Fitz Huggins, exceeded the permissible duration of his diplomatic posting in Canada. Gonsalves revealed that Kingstown had requested an additional three-month extension for Huggins, which was granted by the Canadian government until the end of September. This development follows speculation within the Vincentian community in Canada regarding the abrupt conclusion of Huggins’ 12-year tenure. Gonsalves addressed the matter on NBC Radio, refuting claims by the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) that Huggins was dismissed, emphasizing that his government did not terminate his role. He clarified that Canada imposes limits on the duration of consular postings, and Huggins had surpassed this period. Huggins, who served with distinction, had sought additional time to complete ongoing initiatives, prompting SVG to request an extension from Ottawa. Gonsalves highlighted that similar regulations exist in the United States for diplomatic personnel. Huggins, in a Facebook post on October 2, hinted at legal action against detractors while expressing gratitude for his assignment and community support. His tenure was marked by contributions such as sending medical supplies and decommissioned vehicles to SVG, though he was also embroiled in controversy over the purchase of a government-leased vehicle. Gonsalves defended Huggins’ actions, noting that the vehicle was acquired at a higher cost than the lease terms, saving SVG money. Huggins’ appointment in 2013 was seen as a political compromise, as he had initially sought to become the Unity Labour Party’s candidate for East St. George in the 2015 elections, a position ultimately secured by the Prime Minister’s son, Camillo Gonsalves.
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Police concerned about violence in schools
Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in schools across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Speaking to iWitness News, Bailey highlighted the urgent need for young people to adopt de-escalation strategies, noting that impulsive behavior often leads to severe consequences. He revealed that a significant portion of these incidents involve young girls, though boys are also culpable. Bailey’s remarks followed a recent stabbing at North Union Secondary School, where a 15-year-old student was critically injured by a 16-year-old classmate. The incident underscores the growing problem of school violence, with reports emerging almost weekly. Bailey emphasized the importance of early intervention, urging parents, counselors, and community institutions to play a proactive role in guiding students. He stressed that addressing behavioral issues before they escalate into serious offenses is crucial for rehabilitation, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. Bailey called for a collective effort to transform troubled youth into model citizens, advocating for counseling and support over punishment.
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Brewster outlines plans for Central Leeward
Orlando Brewster, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Central Leeward and Minister of Housing, has laid out his comprehensive vision for the constituency as he seeks re-election for a second five-year term. Speaking at the Unity Labour Party (ULP) campaign launch in Layou, Brewster emphasized his commitment to transformative development, including the construction of new hotels, expanded scholarship programs, improved healthcare services, and extensive housing repairs across St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He assured constituents that the ULP is the only party capable of delivering on its promises, stating, “You can put your pot on the fire and know this party will come true to help you.” Brewster also highlighted upcoming projects, such as housing developments for young professionals in Peters Hope, floodlit village tournaments in Layou, and the renovation of the Buccament Bay Playing Field to support local athletes. Addressing land scarcity in Layou, he revealed that the Prime Minister had instructed the chief surveyor to allocate additional lands in Ridge Side for development. Brewster further pledged to establish a state-of-the-art early childhood facility in Barrouallie to accommodate the area’s growing population. While acknowledging that not all housing repairs under the current program would be completed before the election, he vowed that the ULP would continue the rebuilding process if re-elected. Brewster’s campaign contrasts sharply with his opponent, Conroy Huggins of the New Democratic Party (NDP), whose “Vision 2025-2035” plan Brewster claims lacks transparency. The general election is anticipated by November 2025, ahead of the constitutional deadline in February 2026.
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In Too Cool’s trial, Bailey says ‘more care’ needed when dealing with mentally ill people
Assistant Commissioner of Police Trevor ‘Buju’ Bailey, a key figure in crime prevention, emphasized the importance of exercising heightened care when dealing with individuals suffering from mental illness. His testimony came during the trial of Christopher ‘Too Cool Chris’ Jones, a prominent DJ and radio personality, who is facing charges of wounding in connection with the shooting of Kevin Patterson in Kingstown on July 4, 2024. Jones claims he acted in self-defense, alleging that Patterson was reaching for a weapon in his bag, which was later found to contain a knife and a box cutter. However, the prosecution argues that Jones’ actions were malicious and did not constitute self-defense. Bailey, summoned by the defense, shared insights into police protocols when interacting with mentally ill individuals. He noted that police recruits are trained by the Ministry of Health on how to handle such situations, and workshops are regularly conducted for frontline officers. Bailey stressed the need for calm communication and assured assistance when dealing with mentally ill persons, acknowledging that reasoning may not always be possible due to incoherence. He also discussed the use of licensed firearms, stating that their primary purpose is protection and crime prevention, and that any use of a firearm in such situations would be subject to investigation. The trial, presided over by Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie, is set for a verdict on December 10, with the possibility of an earlier decision.
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Woman jailed for beating man who told her prison is her home
Rakiesha Joseph, also known as Bim Bim, a 27-year-old from Layou, has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison for assaulting John Mofford outside the Milton Cato Memorial Hospital (MCMH) on August 23. Joseph was already serving a suspended sentence for a similar crime when the incident occurred. The altercation began when Mofford, accompanying a young woman who had been injured by Joseph and another female, remarked that jail was Joseph’s home. Enraged, Joseph struck Mofford above the right eye, causing him to fall, and proceeded to beat him with the help of another woman. Joseph fled the scene but was later arrested and charged. During the trial, Joseph pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm. In mitigation, she cited personal frustrations and concerns for her children, aged 10 and 8, who had previously suffered due to her incarceration. However, Senior Magistrate Tammika McKenzie activated Joseph’s suspended sentence, emphasizing her repeated offenses. Joseph’s sentence for the assault was ordered to run concurrently, sparing her additional prison time. The magistrate noted Joseph’s history of violent behavior, including stabbing an officer, and expressed concern over her pattern of reoffending. Joseph is also facing charges related to an alleged robbery and attempted murder in South Rivers.
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Union Island group wins int’l conservation award
The Union Island Environmental Alliance (UIEA) Rangers Team has been awarded the prestigious International Ranger Award at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. This accolade recognizes their unwavering commitment to protecting the unique wildlife of Union Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The team, composed of local members Roseman Adams, Junicia Gellizeau, Millesia Gellizeau, Roxanne Forget, Ricardo Gellizeau, Kayroy Baptiste, and Esrome Durant, has played a pivotal role in the recovery of endangered species, including the Union Island gecko and the Grenadines pink rhino iguana. Their daily efforts encompass forest patrols, wildlife monitoring, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which destroyed 90% of the island’s homes and left the team without essential resources, they demonstrated remarkable resilience. They adapted their strategies, leveraging their deep understanding of the local environment and community to continue their conservation work. The team also played a crucial role in post-hurricane recovery, assisting with debris clearance and supply distribution. Their achievements include a significant increase in the Union Island gecko population, from 10,000 in 2018 to approximately 18,000 today. Supported by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department, Fauna & Flora, and Re:wild, the UIEA Rangers have become a beacon of hope for both wildlife and the local community. Arica Hill, Fauna & Flora’s Caribbean lead, praised the team’s dedication, emphasizing their invaluable contributions to the island’s recovery and conservation efforts. The award includes financial support, which is expected to enhance their ongoing work and improve their living conditions.
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ULP on the move for a 6th term
The Unity Labour Party (ULP) is making significant strides in its 2025 campaign, marked by a massive rally held on October 11 at the Layou Playing Field. Under the theme ‘We Wuking,’ the event highlighted the party’s broader campaign slogan, ‘Labour is Working For All.’ Prominent figures including Saboto Caesar, Grace Walters, Grenville Williams, Carlos James, Orando Brewster, and Comrade Ralph delivered compelling speeches, outlining the party’s achievements and future plans under the overarching theme ‘Own The Future.’ The rally, which lasted nearly five hours, captivated the audience with a mix of political discourse and musical performances, showcasing the ULP’s deep connection with the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG). The event underscored the party’s determination to secure a sixth consecutive term in office. The ULP’s campaign has also spotlighted emerging stars like Dr. Grace Walters and Dr. Orando Brewster, alongside seasoned leaders such as Saboto Caesar and Comrade Ralph, who continues to be a pivotal figure in the party’s success. The week of October 11-17 was particularly eventful for the ULP, with the inauguration of the Clifton Ferry Terminal on Union Island, the Ignite Grand Finale cultural competition, and the Central Kingstown Football Competition. Additionally, the party held a press briefing on October 13 regarding the upcoming opening of the Modern Port, scheduled for October 25. On October 16, the ULP commemorated two significant historical milestones: the 57th anniversary of Comrade Ralph’s leadership in political activism and the 31st anniversary of the merger between the SVG Labour Party and the Movement for National Unity, which formed the ULP. These events were celebrated with the launch of two books authored by Comrade Ralph, ‘Caribbean Regional Integration’ and ‘Labour is Working for All,’ and a planned rally in Calliaqua on October 18. The ULP’s enduring legacy and commitment to SVG’s development continue to resonate with the electorate, positioning the party as a formidable force in the upcoming elections.
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A farewell to Sol-o — Remembering Solomon Fairbairn
The passing of Solomon Fairbairn, a beloved resident of Lowmans Hill, has left the community in mourning. Sol-o, as he was affectionately known, succumbed to cancer, marking yet another loss for this tight-knit village. His life was a testament to resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of Lowmans Hill.