Closer ties with Africa

Tuesday, August 31st, 2010 | Cams | Comments Off

L to R Bishop Pokolo, Sis... Sec of the Organisation, Brother Michael Massalay, Sen Abel M Massalay, Dr. John Noel, Cletus Segbe Wotorson, Bishop Xavier - UEOSBSenator Abel M. Massalay, Dr. Noel, J Alex Tyler and Bisop George Xavier

By Josiah Quashie

CAMS News-line 

August 30th

St. David: “Very edifying spiritually uplifting and successful” is how His Excellency Dr. John A. Noel, the Ambassador at Large of the Universal Ecclesiastical Order of the Spiritual Baptist and Patriarch of the Spiritual Baptist faith describes his recent trip to the Motherland – West Africa. 

Speaking to Caribbean Agency for Media Services (CAMS) on his return he listed some of the highlights of his trip which included a visit to the final resting place of the first President of Ghana, Dr. Nkroma – where he raised a Grenadian flag at the Mausoleum. An experience he claimed he will never forget is his visit to the slave dungeon and a trip to the Ashanti region where he met and held talks with a number of chiefs of African indigenous religious leaders. He said the visit to the slave dungeon was very emotional. He said they were taken on a tour where it was explained to them how the slaves were treated and where they were held, including an area called the death cell, where the most militant slaves were placed to die from suffocation. He was taken to a door that was labeled the door of no return where the slaves make their final departure to enter the boat that will take them away from families and friends for the rest of their lives. 

Dr. Noel said words are inadequate to describe his feelings when he made a trip that took him hundreds of miles into the Ashanti regions. He said he observed a number of cultural activities that are similar to those practiced in Carriacou – the home of his birth. Dr. Noel said while in Ghana, he also visited Bob Marley’s Mansion and many other historic sites. Another of his highlights was the ordination of Captain Sherwin Seon Modetse, a Grenadian originally from Content, St. David, as an Archdeacon of which His Grace Dr. John Noel was the chief celebrant. He was ably assisted by Bishop George Xavier, Visionary of the Spiritual Baptist faith. He said it was an historic event since it was the first time a Caribbean clergyman was ordained at that level in Ghana. He said he also met and held talks with honorable Joseph Sam Amankwanor, Member of Parliament, and MP for Upper West Akim constituency in Ghana and Member of the Foreign Relations Committee. The meeting climaxed with a lavish dinner hosted by Honorable Joseph for the Archbishop and his delegation. Dr. Noel said he and his delegation then moved on to Liberia. 

In Liberia he was greeted on arrival at the Monrovia airport by indigenous African religious leaders representing thirteen religious organizations. There were drums dancing singing and other cultural activities to welcome the delegation on their arrival. Dr. Noel said from the moment of his arrival in Liberia he had two protocol officers assigned to him, he was not allowed to carry his brief case nor open doors, he said he was treated with the highest level of courtesy

A welcoming ceremony was held the very night at a church where more than a thousand members were in attendance. He was then introduced to members of Grenada-Caribbean Friendship organization of Liberia headed by Brother Micheal Massalay and Bishop Pokolo. The organization was inaugurated with attendance by faith based members from several regions in Liberia. Dr. Noel was inducted as Grand Patron of the organization. While in Liberia, Dr. Noel and his delegation visited the tomb of first black president of Liberia, he also visited the first black African church in Liberia. Dr. Noel said he met and held talks with honorable J Alex Tyler Speaker of the House of Representatives, he also met with Senator Abel M Massalay, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Edwin Harris, Director of Government Affairs; Cletus Segbe, Wotorson, President Protempore of the Liberian Senate. Dr. Noel said his talks with the various members of the Liberian Parliament set the ground work for Grenada to develop and strengthen ties not only with Liberia but for other African states. The Archbishop believes that there is a need for more regular meetings between governments and church leaders in the African Diaspora and the Motherland.

Bishop Noel said he observed that although Liberia and Ghana are among the richest states in Africa, yet they are over exploited and under developed. Liberia in particular is blessed by God with gold, diamond, oil, iron; timber etc is now attempting to refocus her development policies to encourage governments and business people from the African Diaspora to invest in the areas of gold mining and other business opportunities. In this regard serious effort is being made to attract Caribbean businessmen although he said Liberia is rich in mineral there is a serious need to lend some humanitarian assistance to the people of Liberia. He said Liberia went through a period of devastation because of a fourteen year civil war that ravaged the country financially, socially and morally. He said the social and cultural fabric of the country has been diminished. There is need to assist the street children that are the result of both their parents dying in the war causing them to end up in the streets. In addition to children with special needs there is also the senior citizens that need special attention. It is in this regard that the Patriarch said he signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Liberia Grenada-Caribbean Chapter of the organization. He said the focus of the organization will not be limited to chapters only in Grenada but through faith based organization he promised every effort will be made to developed chapters of the organization through out the Caribbean with a view to give whatever assistance that we can to the needy cause on the motherland. Dr. Noel advising that persons who are sympathetic to the cause and would like to assist in any way to call 1-473-440-0788 or anyone desirous of becoming actively involved in the Grenada-Caribbean chapter, please do not hesitate to support this worthy cause.

Archbishop Dr. Noel describes experience as “A dream come true”

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010 | Cams commentary | 2 Comments

LtoR: Bishop Xavier and Patriach Ashbiship Dr. John A. Noel at a church in Acrra

Choir at one of the African Spiritual Baptist churches

Updated:

DAILY REPORTS OF THE UNIVERSAL ECCLESIASTICAL ORDER OF SPIRITUAL BAPTIST ON FACT FINDING MISSION TO WEST AFRICA – GHANA & LIBERIA

The delegation of twenty-five ministers and members of the Spiritual Baptist faith from the Caribbean, USA, Canada and England left London on August 11th and will return on 26th August.

We herein include nine days of their experience on this mission. We also include some photos.

The Caribbean Agency for Media Services (CAMS) in association with correspondent Nii Kwartelai Quartey in Ghana is pleased to submit daily reports on this historic trip. Leader of the delegation is Grenadian Dr. John A. Noel, Archbishop and Primate of the Children of the Light International archdiocese; and Ambassador at Large of the Universal Ecclesiastical Order of Spiritual Baptist (UEOSB)

Reports by Nii Kwartelai Quartey

HELD IN ACCRA, KUMASI AND CAPE COAST (GHANA)  

DAY 1

All hearts were drenched with joy and excitement when the plane carrying brothers and sisters from the Diaspora touch down on the motherland; the entire Kotoka international airport in Accra shook with a welcome ceremony that captures the heart and sooth the soul. It was a mix bundle of all things bright and beautiful when the group was ushered into the country with traditional cultural dance which was followed with prayers and libations that turn the arrival hall into a sanctuary that reeked of holiness and awe and will be best describe in the words of Archbishop Noel as’’…..a dream come true’’. The journey to the hotel was without any incident or accident. A Short introductory meeting of people and programme followed quickly before we retired to bed.

DAY 2

As early as morning came, the group rose with the sun like the sunflower to offer prayers to God and also share the word of God as a spiritual food for the nourishing soul. It was packed with songs of adoration, worship and thanksgiving. These uplifting songs even continued in the bus on our journey to Aburi in the eastern region of Ghana. Here, the group had a rare opportunity to visit the Centre for research into Plant Medicine; where the group was taken through various causes of diseases, prevention and the natural medicines for treatment and curing of the chronic ailments like arthritis, general body pains, stroke, malaria, skin diseases and what have. Most of the group members purchased these herbal medicines that have no known side effects. On our return, we visited and purchased some artifacts, sculptures, African mask and other wood carving products from the Aburi wood carving village. We swallowed in every thing that greeted our eyes and noses on the way back to Accra including the house of the wife of the late reggae legend Bob Nesta Marley. ‘’There is no true love than the love for food’’ and if there is truth in this saying then it was not surprising when the group fell in love with the spicy Ghanaian dinner that was served us on our arrival in Accra. We gathered together to evaluate the day and plan for the next day after which prayers were said by the faithful.

DAY 3

We woke up with another soul-inspiring morning worship to present ourselves, work and day to Lord as a group. After breakfast had been taken, we boarded the bus to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Mausoleum –This is the last burial place of the first president of Ghana who also happens to lead the first African country and others (non-violently and successfully) out of colonialism to independence and freedom. It was such a deep and poignant moment, before the tour started, when the group gathered to offer prayers…. lives were given to Christ, the holy spirit led men and women of God to share the word and convert seven soul and ultimately lives were touch. The tour itself was also a moving moment of sadness, joy, hope and triumph as it reflects the victory of good over evil in our racist world. On the trip back to dinner, we made a stop-over at James Town (a suburb of Accra) to watch the ‘’Yee ye yee’’ or ‘’twin festival’’. Legend has it that the people of Accra believe that if a child is a blessing, then the birth of twins is a double blessing and sign of good luck that must be celebrated to show appreciation to God. Therefore, families that have twins prepare herbs in a basin and pour libation to thank God. People make their wishes and drop monies in the basin. These herbs in the basin are then taken to be thrown away in rivers and shrines as a way of taking away all that is evil. Those who carry the basins to be thrown away are possessed by the spirit of the twins and this was the part we met at James Town. Oh it was such a wonderful sight to behold. We left the place with happiness in our heart as we head home for the dinner and evaluation meeting that always characterized our nights and what a powerful prayer session we had to crown the day.

DAY 4

The day started on a serious note with fasting and prayers by participants in the morning. W e were later joined by two pastors from the Imani Healing Temple; the church that will be hosting the ordination after which a follow up was made to the church premises. From here, we move straight to James Town and were received by the elders at the palace on a courtesy call. The next event was the feeding at the square or forecourt of the palace. It was an action-packed open air meeting between the group and the community who were represented heavily by the children who also happen to be our target for the feeding. They joined the saints in prayers, praise singing, dancing and were very receptive to the bible sharing which took place as they tarry there. Our lunch which came late was surprisingly patronized beyond our expectation. In all, two hundred (200) children were feted on the day with a delicious home cooked meal made with love from some women from the community as well as some women from the UEOSB women’s group. The group members were nearly stampeded on by the crowd in their bid to get a pack of rice. Upon request, we headed to a shop at the Arts Centre own by a long time business partner of the group for a dedication and blessing of his shop. Although the group had gotten an intimation of one, many more people also came forward for prayers for themselves and blessing of their businesses. Once again, the day’s activities were crowned with a scrumptious dinner at Auntie Lydia’s.

DAY 5

Perhaps this was one of the significant days on our trip. It was a Sunday that was very remarkable as it was not only a normal Sunday for worship but it was Captain Sherwin Modeste’s (later to be Rev. Archdeacon Modeste) ordination. It was a joy to behold brothers and sisters from the Diaspora joined hands in prayer and sacrifice with their African brethren. We move from one church to the other; first to the Royal House Chapel who are our development partners and to the Imani Healing Temple where the ordination actually took place. We were the recipient of heart-rending musical worship of the charismatic and the best practice of spiritual Baptist in Africa. The occasion of the ordination at the Imani Healing Temple was so colorful as it featured an Archbishop and bishops dress in their resplendent garment to make the occasion a sacrifice of love among one big family of Christ worshipers. The candidate for the ordination was prepared and presented to the faithful for examination and approval. Consequently, the candidate prostrated on the floor as a sign of humbleness in service, complete dedication to God and his church and obedience to Christ through his representative on earth the bishops and/or superiors. At this point, hands were laid on the candidate, anointed, enrobed and commissioned to conclude the ordination rites. To wit, the day was a mix bundle of all things bright and beautiful.

DAY 6

T he sixth day was somewhat relaxing. The group was divided into two; the first group of two namely the Archbishop and the Bishop went to the Liberian Embassy to apply for their Liberian visas. The second group visited the Arts Centre and the market place. On our return to the resident hotel, we all had dinner an early rest for an early start.

DAY 7

After an early breakfast, the whole group packed their luggage into the bus as we travelled to Kumasi. On arrival, we parked our belongings into the hotel rooms and assembled back for a tour. The visit took us to both cultural and historic places in Kumasi. Our first visit was to the Bonwire Kente weaving village where we saw how yarns of thread are spun like the spider’s web in a loom to come out with beautiful cloth. We also made stops at the Okomfo Anokye site where he planted and harvested banana on the same. The last point of call was at the ground where the same traditional priest of the Asante thrusted a sword that is yet to be taken out by any man or woman. We came back to the hotel, dined and retired to our beds.

DAY 8

The whole trip has been gathering a spiritual momentum until it probably came to a climax on the eighth day. This is the day we traced the path our ancestors trod when they were captured as slaves. Everyone woke up at dawn before the cock crew all dressed in white apparel. The word was shared and prayers were offered and then the group burst into songs as pilgrims as the bus drove away. Along the way we made a stopover at Nana Yaa Asantewa statue which coincidentally also happened to have been erected by a Spiritual Baptist Church in Canada. This stoppage was important as it sought to honour an ancestral queen mother who led an army of Ashanti men to fight against the British. After a long hour journey, we came to the Slave River in Assin Manso. This was also the place were the slaves had their last bath before they were taken to be auctioned at the castle. The tour guide narrated a moving story of some the egregious violations that took place there.

Still treading on, we came to the Cape Coast Castle were entered and experienced the dark and little ventilated dungeon were our ancestors were kept as slaves. We passed through the door of no return; the door our ancestors passed without the chance to bid farewell to loved ones to cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean, Americas and Europe. But unlike our ancestors we were fortunate to come back

through the door of return. After the tour of the castle we went to the beach for the cleansing ceremony. Sobering thoughts were on minds as we made our trip back to Accra.

DAY 9

On this day Archbishop J. Noel and Bishop George Xavier left to Liberia as planned. The rest of the group first visited the orphanage prayed and shared gift with the children at the home. After this, the whole was taken to the Eastern Region of Ghana led by a member of parliament for the ruling party Honourable Amanquando. We return to Accra exhausted but smiling and thank God for even little mercies.

IMPACT OF THE FINANCIAL CRISIS ON WOMEN IN THE CARIBBEAN: IDENTIFYING GENDER AWARE RESPONSES

Tuesday, August 24th, 2010 | Cams commentary | Comments Off

August 23rd:

By Sandra C A Ferguson

Agency for Rural Transformation (ART)

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) are continuing their programme of collaboration on the subject of gender policy, with the holding of a three-day workshop, August 23-25, at the Grenada Grand Beach Resort, Grand Anse, St. George’s.  It is now well recognized that the world is facing not only an economic crisis, but also crises in food security, social development and  climate change – all of which individually and together affect people’s welfare. The intersection of these crises have far reaching  and longer term consequences on the development possibilities of Caribbean peoples, in particular, women and their families. 

Against this background and under the theme “The Impact of the Financial Crisis on Women in the Caribbean:  Identifying Gender-Aware Policy Responses”, the workshop will therefore:

*   Assess data and analyses of the crisis from a gender perspective in both the global and national contexts.
*     Guide participants in drafting a national policy statement that is sensitive to the impacts of the crisis on women and their families.
*      Critique government policy responses to the crisis and formulate alternative gender-aware policy, using the information and skills acquired in the workshop.

Participants have been invited from St. Lucia, St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, Antigua and Grenada, and logistical support has been kindly provided by the Agency for Rural Transformation (ART).

The workshop will be facilitated by Ms. Judith Wedderburn, Director, FES Jamaica and the Eastern Caribbean, and Ms. Cecilia Babb, Executive Director, Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC)

DAILY REPORT OF THE UNIVERSAL ECCLESIASTICAL ORDER OF SPIRITUAL BAPTIST

Sunday, August 15th, 2010 | Cams | Comments Off

HELD IN ACCRA, KUMASI AND CAPE COAST (GHANA)

Editor’s Note:

A delegation of twenty-five members of the Spiritual Baptist faith, comprising members of the UEOSB travelled to West Africa – Ghana & Liberia for a fact finding mission. (August 11th to 26th 2010). The delegation is headed by Patriarch Dr. John A Noel, Archbishop and Primate of the Children of the Light International Archdiocese.

Here are the first five days of that historic journey!

Reports by:

Nii Kwartelai Quartey niikwartelai@yahoo.com

DAY 1

All hearts were drenched with joy and excitement when the plane carrying brothers and sisters from the Diaspora touch down on the motherland; the entire Kotoka international airport in Accra shook with a welcome ceremony that captures the heart and sooth the soul. It was a mix bundle of all things bright and beautiful when the group was ushered into the country with traditional cultural dance which was followed with prayers and libations that turn the arrival hall into a sanctuary that reeked of holiness and awe and will be best describe in the words of Archbishop Noel as’’…..a dream come true’’. The journey to the hotel was without any incident or accident. A Short introductory meeting of people and programme followed quickly before we retired to bed.

DAY 2

As early as morning came, the group rose with the sun like the sunflower to offer prayers to God and also share the word of God as a spiritual food for the nourishing soul. It was packed with songs of adoration, worship and thanksgiving. These uplifting songs even continued in the bus on our journey to Aburi in the eastern region of Ghana. Here, the group had a rare opportunity to visit the Centre for research into Plant Medicine; where the group was taken through various causes of diseases, prevention and the natural medicines for treatment and curing of the chronic ailments like arthritis, general body pains, stroke, malaria, skin diseases and what have. Most of the group members purchased these herbal medicines that have no known side effects. On our return, we visited and purchased some artifacts, sculptures, African mask and other wood carving products from the Aburi wood carving village. We swallowed in every thing that greeted our eyes and noses on the way back to Accra including the house of the wife of the late reggae legend Bob Nesta Marley. ‘’There is no true love than the love for food’’ and if there is truth in this saying then it was not surprising when the group fell in love with the spicy Ghanaian dinner that was served us on our arrival in Accra. We gathered together to evaluate the day and plan for the next day after which prayers were said by the faithful.

DAY 3

We woke up with another soul-inspiring morning worship to present ourselves, work and day to Lord as a group. After breakfast had been taken, we boarded the bus to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Mausoleum –This is the last burial place of the first president of Ghana who also happens to lead the first African country and others (non-violently and successfully) out of colonialism to independence and freedom. It was such a deep and poignant moment, before the tour started, when the group gathered to offer prayers…. lives were given to Christ, the holy spirit led men and women of God to share the word and convert seven soul and ultimately lives were touch. The tour itself was also a moving moment of sadness, joy, hope and triumph as it reflects the victory of good over evil in our racist world. On the trip back to dinner, we made a stop-over at James Town (a suburb of Accra) to watch the ‘’Yee ye yee’’ or ‘’twin festival’’. Legend has it that the people of Accra believe that if a child is a blessing, then the birth of twins is a double blessing and sign of good luck that must be celebrated to show appreciation to God. Therefore, families that have twins prepare herbs in a basin and pour libation to thank God. People make their wishes and drop monies in the basin. These herbs in the basin are then taken to be thrown away in rivers and shrines as a way of taking away all that is evil. Those who carry the basins to be thrown away are possessed by the spirit of the twins and this was the part we met at James Town. Oh it was such a wonderful sight to behold. We left the place with happiness in our heart as we head home for the dinner and evaluation meeting that always characterized our nights and what a powerful prayer session we had to crown the day.

DAY 4

The day started on a serious note with fasting and prayers by participants in the morning. W e were later joined by two pastors from the Imani Healing Temple; the church that will be hosting the ordination after which a follow up was made to the church premises. From here, we move straight to James Town and were received by the elders at the palace on a courtesy call. The next event was the feeding at the square or forecourt of the palace. It was an action-packed open air meeting between the group and the community who were represented heavily by the children who also happen to be our target for the feeding. They joined the saints in prayers, praise singing, dancing and were very receptive to the bible sharing which took place as they tarry there. Our lunch which came late was surprisingly patronized beyond our expectation. In all , two hundred (200) children were feted on the day with a delicious home cooked meal made with love from some women from the community as well as some women from the UEOSB women’s group. The group members were nearly stampeded on by the crowd in their bid to get a pack of rice. Upon request, we headed to a shop at the Arts Centre own by a long time business partner of the group for a dedication and blessing of his shop. Although the group had gotten an intimation of one, many more people also came forward for prayers for themselves and blessing of their businesses. Once again, the day’s activities were crowned with a scrumptious dinner at Auntie Lydia’s.

DAY 5

Perhaps this was one of the significant days on our trip. It was a Sunday that was very remarkable as it was not only a normal Sunday for worship but it was Captain Sherwin Modeste’s (later to be Rev. Archdeacon Modeste) ordination. It was a joy to behold brothers and sisters from the Diaspora joined hands in prayer and sacrifice with their African bretheren. We move from one church to the other; first to the Royal House Chapel who are our development partners and to the Imani Healing Temple where the ordination actually took place. We were the recipient of heart-rending musical worship of the charismatic and the best practice of spiritual Baptist in Africa. The occasion of the ordination at the Imani Healing Temple was so colorful as it featured an Archbishop and bishops dress in their resplendent garment to make the occasion a sacrifice of love among one big family of Christ worshipers. The candidate for the ordination was prepared and presented to the faithful for examination and approval. Consequently, the candidate prostrated on the floor as a sign of humbleness in service, complete dedication to God and his church and obedience to Christ through his representative on earth the bishops and/or superiors. At this point, hands were laid on the candidate, anointed, enrobed and commissioned to conclude the ordination rites. To wit, the day was a mix bundle of all things bright and beautiful.

Root Jackson is committed to Grenada

Thursday, August 12th, 2010 | Cams | Comments Off

Grenada_Diaspora_Project[1]

“The introduction of the ‘Grenadians in the Diaspora’ initiative by the Current Government for Grenadians living abroad is highly commendable and very long overdue.

My longstanding experience in the Cultural Arts and Entertainment industries, along with my organisational skills will be of value to the development of this exciting venture. 

 Our historical and current connection to Africa should certainly be included in our decision making process.

 I look forward to supporting the UK working party’s contribution to the overall running of this worthwhile project.”

C & N PORT LOUIS 2009: Let the Progress continue

Monday, August 9th, 2010 | Cams commentary | 1 Comment

 

By

Citizens in Defence of Grenada’s Lands and Heritage

One year ago, in July 2009, Camper and Nicholsons attempted to displace we the people from the occupation of our Lagoon Park, claiming that they needed “their property”(!!??) to be used as a construction mobilization site to facilitate the construction of additional marina berths.  Some of we the people protested vehemently – Citizens in Defence of Grenada’s Lands and Heritage, boat owners, fishermen and water taxi operators whose boats were hauled up on the Lagoon Park and some residents of the Belmont- Lagoon community.. 

However,  Camper and Nicholsons had many “cheerleaders” in  powerful and influential quarters –  including the private sector and some key political decision makers  - who  suggested that Camper and Nicholsons was the “best thing since sliced bread” that Grenada had seen in a  while.  They told we the people that Grenada needed foreign investment and jobs and that Camper and Nicholsons would deliver both.  In some quarters, persons associated with Citizens in Defence of Grenada’s Lands and Heritage were villified and ridiculed  as being anti-foreign investment, anti development, detractors of progress, threatening to topple the government, racist, and spreading lies and hatred etc. etc.  

So, in the name of progress and development ( “let the progress continue”?) the  “powers that be” permitted Camper and Nicholsons to occupy part of the Lagoon Park and to fill in an area adjacent to that part of the park without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment and, as far as could have been observed without compliance to  the required mitigating measures, silt traps and rock abutments.   It also seemed that people’s issues were no longer of any consequence.  Among these issues were: 

So naturally we the people are VERY interested in the performance of the Camper and Nicholson Port Louis Marina  over the last year, 2009, moreso  since in the Interim Accounts to June 2009, Mr. Nick Maris,   Chairman and CEO of Camper and Nicholson Marinas International Ltd  had advised that  a construction contract was signed on 9 June 2009 for a phase of berth construction and the construction cost was budgeted at approximately EUR6.7 million (US$9.5 million).    Courtesy Google, Citizens in Defence have been able to access the Statement of Accounts to December 2009 for Camper and Nicholson Marina Investments Ltd. (the marina owners).  We are particularly interested in the performance of the Port Louis Marina, one of the three marinas owned by Camper and Nicholsons Marina Investments Ltd., the other two being  Grand Harbour Marina in Malta and Cesme in Turkey.   

CDGLH has noted the following   information pertinent to Port Louis and is pleased to share it with we the people (we the people being those who wish to be associated).   

1.         PORT LOUIS:

1.1.      Revenues:

The Business Review by Mr. Nick Maris, provided the following information:

1.2.      Berths:

 

1.3.      Berth Sales:

 

 

 

1.4.      Marina Valuation:

 

Since the financial statements are consolidated, presenting the situation of the Company and all its subsidiaries, the notes to the financial statements are very enlightening.  The following were particularly noted:

2          Revenue Recognition – Licensing of super yacht berths:

A  note  to the financial statements, Revenue Recognition, explains that the licences of super yacht berths are classified as financial leases and all amounts receivable under such contracts are collected at the outset of the contract. 

What then are the implications in respect of tax revenues for Grenada if  Camper and Nicholson, as a subsequent purchaser from Port Louis, also benefits from the unusually generous tax concessions that were awarded to Peter De Savary’s companies?  (Does Camper and Nicholson have tax concessions for 25 years?)

 

3.         Lease of the Lagoon:

What does this mean?  Does this mean that Camper and Nicholson is presently not paying rental for the lease of the Lagoon area?  What does “total” imply – that Euros 1.64 rental will be paid for 50,000 square metres (equivalent of  Euros 32.4 per square metre)?  Will this be a yearly payment?  How does this compare with the total  tariff charged by Camper and Nicholson?  According to their own valuations US$2,000 per square metre!!  How much does Grenada EARN from its Lagoon  asset? 

4.         Due to Port Louis;

Among the non – current liabilities of the Company were the following:

5.   Internalized Manager and Investment Advisor:

The notes advised as follows on the internalized manager, Marina Management International and the internalized Investment Advisor, Camper and Nicholson Marina International Ltd:

  1. 6.                  Parent Company Investments and Subsidiaries:

Among the parent company’s , i.e. Camper and Nicholson Marina Investments Ltd,(CMNI) investments and subsidiaries are the following:

  1. 7.                  Points to Ponder:

In the meantime, we the people have noted that a scrap metal heap now seems to have been relocated to the Lagoon Park area.   We are rather surprised given the boast of Peter De Savary and his cheer leaders about how much money was spent  to clean up the dirty Lagoon.  Why  is Camper and Nicholsons re-creating the same unsightly scrap metal heap in the vicinity of the Lagoon Park? 

We the people also understand that, in his remarks  at the Fishermen’s Birthday celebrations which recently took place on the Lagoon Park, an official from the Dept. of Fisheries thanked Camper and Nicholson for permitting the use of the Lagoon Park for the celebrations??!!  

The Minister for Port Louis affairs certainly owes we the people some answers:

We the people want ANSWERS!  We waiting and we watching!!   

 DISCLAIMER:  The author wishes to advise that the expression “we the people” which appears to be very irksome to some readers and detractors, is not intended  in any way to purport to speak on their behalf. 

Sandra writes Mr. Dick Van Dijk

Monday, July 26th, 2010 | Cams | Comments Off

From:  Sandra C.A. Ferguson

To: Mr. Dick Van Dijk

Chief Executive Officer

Zublin-Grenada

 Dear Mr. Van Dijk,

 Re Rude, Offensive and Out of Order

 Up until now I had directed all my comments, queries and concerns in respect of interventions and proposals by Zublin -Grenada to the ministers of the current and past administration.  However, since you have graciously introduced yourself and invited me to your office so that you could advise me of “the facts” in respect of the St. George’s Renaissance project, I thought that it would be fitting to address a letter directly to you. 

 I take the opportunity to address you on the following issues:

1.  Your Attitude:

By now, Mr. van Dijk, you ought to be well aware that we the people find your attitude rude, out of order and highly offensive.  We are unaware as to who /what has given you the impression that you and Zublin “run things” in Grenada.  We are quite certain that we did not vote you into office.

 We are at a loss to understand your absolutely disrespectful attitude to our political leaders, both current and past.  Perhaps they have frolicked and hob-nobbed with you.  King Ajamu’s thoughtful calypso reminds we the people that “ when you play with puppy, puppy go lick yuh face”.   Maybe you know something about them that we the people do not know?  Did any or all of them promise you something that:

 they did not deliver?

 Whatever the reason(s), suffice it to say that we the people take umbrage to your disrespectful attitude displayed towards our Prime Minister, Ministers of Government and, by extension, we the people. 

 2.   Casino Licence:

Mr. Dijk, we the people want to know why a casino licence is/was such a sticking point for Zublin?  Why is a casino licence the pre-condition to the next Zublin investment in Grenada?  Is this insistence on the granting of a casino licence related in any way to a suit brought against St. George’s Newport by a company called Harbour Holdings – Harbour Holdings vs. St. George’s Newport Property Development Co. Ltd., Grenada – Claim No.: GDAHCV2007/0585?  Or is it merely co-incidence?

To the best of the knowledge of we the people, St. George’s Newport Property Development Co. Ltd is the holder of the 99-year lease of the reclaimed lands of the Melville Street cruise port area.   St. George’s Newport entered into an agreement with a company called Harbour Holdings Ltd. for the purchase a lot of land, Lot 8 – at an agreed purchase price of US$4,359,360 – for the purpose of the establishment of a world class casino gaming facility.  Later, by letter of 2nd Nov. 2007, St. George’s Newport advised Harbour Holdings that it was rescinding the agreement.  Harbour Holdings responding by filing  a claim against St. George’s Newport in December 2007.

 The questions Mr. van Dyke are: 

 Did St. George’s Newport Property Dev. Co. covenant with Harbour Holdings Ltd. that should Lot 8  be purchased and  a casino building be constructed, the St. George’s Newport Property Dev. Co would obtain from the Government of Grenada, a casino gaming licence which would be assigned to Harbour Holdings?

3.    St. George’s Renaissance Project:

I am at a loss, Mr. Van Dyke, to understand all the “bru-ha-ha”  that your project is causing.  It appears to me to be a deliberate attempt (in a democracy of course) to undermine the authority of the Hon. Prime Minister and the Cabinet.  It has gone to the RIDICULOUS EXTENT where supposedly sensible people are suggesting that the Prime Minister spoke out of turn when he publicly announced his opposition to casino gambling as part of an economic development strategy and questioning his judgment re his opposition to casino gambling.  Be advised, Mr. Van Dyke that we the people  voted for our Prime Minister because of his moral fortitude.  We would expect NO LESS from him!!

It is my considered opinion,  Sir, is that your proposals DID NOT MERIT  the setting up of any Cabinet appointed Committee to review your proposal.  That was putting the cart before the horse.  What was first required was a THOROUGH REVIEW of Zublin’s initial interventions in Grenada, beginning with the financial and economic feasibility studies, as well as the Environmental and Social Impact Assessments that informed your company’s intervention. 

 4.    Review of Phase 1:

 What did your company PROMISE and what did it actually DELIVER?   With the blessings of the former NNP regime, there was a rather peculiar sort of private-public partnership where we the people (through the Grenada Ports Authority) incurred a loan to pay  for land reclamation and the reclaimed lands were then handed to Zublin on a 99-year lease.  And it would seem that you expected this kind of public-private partnership as some kind of right of passage in respect of your current proposals.

Zublin’s  DEFICIT in delivery has been re-iterated time after time, including its grandiose claims about making Grenada  a homeport.   The reality is that when there are  sea surges, liners experience great difficulty on the new cruise ship terminal.  Recall the experience of the Logos, docked on the new, modern (?) cruise ship terminal, which had to close its doors to visitors and anchor further out for safety.  After that incident/event, it made haste and docked in the inner harbour.  In March 2008, during the Easter week(on Holy Thursday to be exact) , sea surges caused waves to crash all over the Esplanade and into the tunnel, disrupting traffic.  The cruise liners COULD NOT DOCK since it was UNSAFE.  So much for being a home port!!

 We the people ought to also take note Mr. Van Dyke, that the attitude of mega cruise liners which really only want a place to “park” for a short while is summed up as follows by the Executive of a major cruise line – “after all the ship is the attraction!  Not the port of call!”

 Perhaps Mr. Van Dyke you could justify why should Grenada be incurring debt to build an additional cruise jetty   when the annual report of the company of which you are the Chief Executive Officer seems to suggests prudence.  According to Grenreal’s Annual Report for the period April 2009-March 2010):   

-                     There was an increase of 10.8 percent in the cruise passengers  arrivals (324,000 in 2009; cf  295,200 in 2008)

-                     GROWTH DID NOT COMPENSATE FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF DECLINE IN SPENDING BY CRUISE PASSENGERS, negative development in stay-over tourism and decline in domestic spending.

-                     The result was unexpected termination of some leases (mostly domestic) among the tenants.

-                     Economic conditions caused some pressure on the collection of rents during the course of the year.

-                     Total comprehensive deficit of the company for the period was EC$7,641,830 compared with a comprehensive income of EC$ 5,990,700 in 2008. 

The report, Mr. Van Dyke, speaks for itself. 

  1. 5.    Cruise Port of the Hague:

It is significant, Sir, that Zublin-Grenada has not been blowing its trumpet about the this project which a consortium – of which Zublin – Grenada is a part – has been pursuing  in the Netherlands since 2005/2006!!??  At what stage is this project?  How many public consultations have there been on this matter?  How many technical studies and impact studies hav the “developers’” been required to do?  Grenada would do well to be so guided. 

  1. 6.    Adios Zublin:

You have recently announced the intention of your company to “pack up and leave”.  Frankly, this appears to another “out of order” attempt to “force the government’s hand in respect of the granting of a casino licence.    But we the people do not shed any tears for the threat of Zublin’s  imminent’s departure.  

Frankly, Sir, I do not think that there is any LOSS to our country.  It would be a relief to know that Grenada would not be further at risk  to  any of Zublin’s ill-conceived, ill-directed and ill-advised investments.  To date, your company has fared well while Grenada is left holding the debt.   Grenada deserves much better than Zublin!! 

Sincerely yours,

 Sandra C.A. Ferguson

c/o P.O. Box 750, St. George’s

Tel:  405-0797/ E-mail:  fergca2001@yahoo.com

 July 24th, 2010

Spiritual Baptist Archbishop speaks out on rising crime and violence

Monday, July 26th, 2010 | Cams | Comments Off

By Josiah Quashie

CAMS News-Line…. 

St. David: GRENADA: In an interview with the Patriarch of the Spiritual Baptist faith, Dr. John A. Noel on the eve of his departure for an historic mission to West Africa, I asked him what are his views on the issue of ‘rising crime and violence’ in the region generally and specifically Grenada and what he suggests should be the remedy. 

Dr. Noel replied by noting that “if we want to correct the ills in society today we need to address a few issues”. He said, “I believe that we need to start in the homes, continue in the schools and churches to teach the children at an early age about the value of human life”. Adding that, “we need to instill in the minds of our children, the importance of rules, regulations standards and to respect themselves and others”. 

The Patriarch said, if that becomes part of our educational curriculum it will go a long way in shaping a new generation. This, he said, should also happen worldwide. We need to revisit the question as it relates to disciplining of children, Dr. Noel said. 

The Spiritual Baptist Archbishop noted that God himself instructs us that we should not spare the rod and spoil the child. But today in different areas of the world the parents are forbidden from disciplining the children with a view to prepare them for the future. “As a result, he said, we find ourselves creating monsters by not being allowed to discipline our children”. 

Dr. Noel who is the Archbishop and Primate of Children of the Light International archdiocese Inc and Ambassador at Large of the Universal Ecclesiastical Order of Spiritual Baptist (UEOSB) said the teachers no longer have the authority to discipline children in their care. “As a youth I had as much respect for my teachers as I had for my grand mother who was a disciplinarian. There was a time when the elders were considered the parent of every child in the village. Today the elders are not even allowed to correct the children verbally” he said. Noting that the word of God emphatically declares, if you spare the rod you will spoil the child.  Proverbs 29:15 – 17 said “The rod and reproof give wisdom………. Correct thy son…. And he shall give thee rest…..”  The Archbishop noted, “the mistake we are making is to believe that there will be no harm if we bend the tree when its gets too old and that is the problem facing our society today”. 

It’s established that the most vulnerable years of a child in terms of disciplining them is between the ages of one to eight years. And according to the word of God we must get back to the practice of teaching the children the way they should go that when they grow older they would not depart from it, Dr. Noel said. 

“I honestly believe that a few stripes or strokes on the body of a child when it is necessary can save some parents a lot of stress later on in their lives that even the very child will thank their teachers or parents for disciplining them when they were young and innocent”, the Archbishop said.

The Patriarch said the social services should make an effort to design a program of corporation between the schools, the churches and the parents to teach the children the important lessons of the value of human lives. 

The Spiritual Baptist Primate said, “Today I see six or seven murders in our country for the first seven months of the year. A phenomenon that is ancient to us and totally unacceptable. We must go back to the drawing board and see where we are going wrong. We must ensure that our children are attending churches to become acquainted with God’s word and the spiritual principles of God”. That’s the only answer to the crime and violence condition escalating and reaping havoc in our communities. I think it is a copy-cat situation – what they see happening else where, they want to practice it here too. 

He ended by saying that if these actions are not taken, the parents, teachers and churches will have themselves to blame for the escalation of violence and crime among the younger generation. In addition he concluded, men, women children, government and opposition in this country need to go down in serious prayers asking God to intervene.

Plans for grand welcome to the motherland

Monday, July 26th, 2010 | Cams | 1 Comment

By Josiah Quashie

Cams News-Line….

St. David, Grenada: A high level delegation of the Spiritual Baptist faith from the United States (USA), Canada, United Kingdom (UK) and the Caribbean will leave London for West Africa on August 11th and return on the 29th August 2010.

His Excellency Dr. John A Noel DD, a Grenadian Archbishop and Patriarch of the Spiritual Baptist faith who heads the delegation will leave Grenada on August 3rd for London where all members will assemble for this historic trip to the African continent.

Before departing London for the ‘Motherland’ the delegation will pay a courtesy call on the Grenada High Commission in London where Dr. Noel will introduce members of the London chapter of the Universal Ecclesiastical Order of Spiritual Baptist (UEOSB) and other members of the Order, including the newly ordained Bishop Bridget Aberdeen, a Grenadian who is the president of Sunshine Foundation – an organization responsible for assisting children with special needs in Grenada.

In this regard, Dr. Noel held talks with Grenada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon Peter David to brief him on the mission. Also attending the meeting was Bro Sherwin Sean Modeste, President of the Youth Council, Liaison Officer and Assistant Coordinator for the visit to West Africa. (Modeste is originally from Content, St. David, Grenada and a prominent member of the Spiritual Baptist faith) The discussions focused on establishing and deepening relationships between Grenada and West Africa.

Dr. Noel who is Ambassador at Large for the UEOSB was invited to Liberia by the Liberian-Grenada/Caribbean Friendship Society, an organization based in Liberia. Dr. Noel was also appointed Grand Patron of this West African movement.

The Grenadian Archbishop was given the assurance by Foreign Minister Hon David that Grenada will be interested in establishing relationship with countries such as Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria and other African states. Dr. Noel promised to lay the ground work to link Grenada and the Caribbean to these and other West African countries, which he feels is a long overdue process.

Minister David advised the Patriarch that Grenada was recently granted observer status to the African Union (AU) and welcomed the opportunity to develop and strengthen ties with the West African continent.

Bro Modeste, who resides in Canada and a regular visitor to Ghana and other West African states promised to work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to explore opportunities for closer relationships with Ghana and other states. Modeste left Grenada on Wednesday 14th July to assist with preparations for the grand ‘Home Coming’ arrival of His Excellency Archbishop Dr. Noel and his delegation. Other members of the delegation, which comprises twenty-five (25) members of the Spiritual Baptist faith – locally, regionally and internationally, include Visionary of the Spiritual Baptist faith Bishop George Xavier and his wife from California, USA; Bishop Andrew Phillip and his wife from Trinidad and Tobago; Bishops Bridget Aberdeen and Bishop McCollof from London, among others.

Among the highlights of this historic trip will be a meeting between Thandiwe Nkomo, a member of the Ghanaian Parliament and daughter of Ghana’s first president – Joshua Nkomo and Dr. Noel, who is the Archbishop and Primate of the Children of the Light International archdiocese. Additionally, the Patriarch Dr. Noel will be the Chief celebrant at an ordination service of the first Caribbean clergyman to be ordained as archdeacon in the state of Ghana.

Dr. Noel said he considers this fact finding mission as an historic event, noting that this is his first trip back across the middle passage to the motherland since his ancestors were brought out as slaves on a slave ship. In this regard, the Patriarch give thanks to God for this opportunity.

Other activities in Ghana include the annual convention of the Universal Ecclesiastical Order of the Spiritual Baptist Movement (UEOSP); a visit to the ‘Slave Pen’ among other historic sites. In Liberia Dr. Noel and delegation will meet and hold talks with the President of the Republic of Liberia – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Dr. Noel is also schedule to address the National Assembly in Liberia. Arrangements are also being made for the delegation to meet with various heads of state including the Opposition and religious leaders.

According to our correspondent in West Africa extensive preparations are being made by the Grenada-Caribbean/Liberian movement for a grand welcoming of the Patriarch Dr. Noel and his delegation at the Daniel Oduber airport in Monrovia, Liberia.

The arrival of His Excellency is expected to be a memorable event in the process of re-connecting the African Diaspora to the motherland. The welcoming ceremony will include a presentation by Elders from the villages, drumming, chanting and singing and other spiritual activities.

For Dr. Noel this mission is considered as a return to his motherland and not as a visitor or a tourist.

Spirits laid to rest

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010 | Cams commentary | 3 Comments

By Milton J. Coy

CAMS Newsline…..

 St. David: Last Sunday May 16th His Excellency Dr. John A. Noel and a bus load of his church members travelled from the Children of the Light International Arch Diocese headquarters in La Sagesse St. David’s to the farm in St. Andrew’s where the recent beheading of two residents of the area took place. According to Dr. Noel, who is a Patriarch of the Spiritual Baptist faith, the beheading and shedding of blood of the two individuals constituted a curse that stain the nation of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique and can affect the psychic of the young minds? He said the whole nation is traumatized by that uncharacteristic act.

The prayer service lasted just over an hour, consisting mainly of spiritual prayers and singing, the beating of drums, ringing of bells and pouring of water by Dr. Noel and other members of his congregation. Flowers were placed on the ground, psalms and other scripture verses were read – this he said was done to sanctify the area and place the spirits of the departed to rest.

He said during prayer at the church he was directed by the Holy Spirit to go to the area where this incident took place and laid the wondering spirits to rest. He said one would notice that the spiritual activity to lay the spirits to rest took place at 12 O’clock on Sunday. He explained that very few people understand the significance and importance of the hour twelve. 

Dr. Noel pointed out that Jesus himself said in John Chapter 11 that there are twelve hours in the day. He said Jesus chose twelve disciples to assist him in his mission here on earth. He pointed out that there are twelve months in the year. He said it was twelve o’clock in the night when the ten virgins waited for the return of the master. He also noted that it was 12 o’clock mid-night when the destroying angels passed over Egypt. It was 12 o’clock when the prison was rocked by an earth quake and the prison doors were swung wide open for Peter and Silas. 

There are many more spiritual examples about the 12th hour, including the fact that God told the Israelites when they cross the river Jordon to go back in the river and take up twelve stones and place it by the temple and when the children asked them regarding the twelve stones, they will tell them about the mystery that took Moses and the Israelites into the Promise Land. Dr. Noel said that he believed that God is speaking to the nation of Grenada. He noted that the nation should go down in serious prayers, fasting and repentance. 

Leader of the Spiritual Baptist faith is calling on all churches and schools to put an effort in teaching the children the value of human life. The Bible did warn that brotherly love shall run cold in the last days therefore we should read our Bibles so we can be better prepared for the perilous times that the world is about to experience morally, socially, spiritually and economically. 

Dr. Noel reminded the nation that he was the one through faith that was able to put a roaming and wondering spirit back to rest in St. Patrick’s some time in the 1990’s.

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