The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has labelled a new poll as irresponsible propaganda because it failed to print all of the data including an alleged significant swing in favour of the DLP. The Poll printed in another section of the printed media on Sunday reportedly originated in the Faculty of Social Sciences, Cave Hill Campus under the name of the Cave Hill Associates Polling Organisation. Professor Ian Boxill functioned as polling director, Dr. George Belle as an analyst, and Dion Greenidge as data manager and had a sample of 1 220 enumerated voters. General Secretary of the DLP, Chris Sinckler, held a press conference yesterday morning stating that we knew for some time that this poll was being conducted. What we find interesting is that the information that is being withheld is far more significant and damaging to the Barbados Labour Party
Source: Barbados Elections
The just released Cave Hill Associates Polling Organization (Chapo)/Boxill poll has generated a lot of debate in Barbados, especially amongst the political pundits. Although Peter Wickham has ‘reluctantly’ agreed that competition is good in an area which was his sole preserve until the Chapo/Boxill poll, the BU household has some concerns.
We believe that the dissemination of information which is expertly packaged can have the effect of influencing public opinion.The science of polling has been introduced by the late Pat Emmanuel and refined by his protégée Peter Wickham. Despite what Peter Wickham’s detractors are saying his success rate of forecasting the outcome of elections in Barbados and in the region is a matter of public record.
The timing of the Chapo/Boxill poll has raised a question mark in our minds. Although we welcome more pollsters to the market, we question why the owners of the Chapo/Boxill poll would have allowed the Nation newspaper in its edition of 23 December 2007 to print only a snapshot report of the results. Dr.George Bell in a radio call-in offered the poor excuse that the owners of the Chappo/Boxill poll wanted to beat the Nation deadline. The response obviously disregarded the effect that incomplete information dumped in the public domain could have with a general election on the horizon. We are not experts in the science of polling but would it not have made more sense to have formatted the Chappo/Boxill poll to make it easy for the public to make a comparison to the last Peter Wickham CADRES poll?
The other issue which we have is the disturbing report reaching BU which questions the data collection method used by the Chapo/Boxill outfit. There is strong indication that the criteria used to identify some of the subjects who participated in the poll was not a true representation of ‘Barbadians’. In one case that we know of the subject lives outside of Barbados. Could we ask Dr. George Bell to publish the methodology which was used to collect data for the poll? Was the data collected using door to door, telephone, Internet etc?
The PEOPLE want to know!
We wonder why the Chapo/Boxill poll would have been published by the Nation newspaper with such urgency against the background that Chapo/Boxill outfit has no track record in Barbados. Dr.George Bell has himself admitted that the University of the West Indies needs to build expertise in the science of polling.
106 responses so far ↓
Health Inspector // December 28, 2007 at 8:28 AM
David,
Your blog is full of your past statements about what David Thompson should do “after he wins the next elections”. Some of them date back many months.
So it is understandable to “the people” why you are so unhappy about a poll which places the DLP in second place… (in other words, as losers!)
Do you realise that people have long seen through your shallow pretence of being free, fair and unbiased?
Such Stupid Comments // December 28, 2007 at 8:39 AM
David Please bring some facts on Peter Wickham’s track record ie prediction vs outcome so that we can JUDGE for ourselves. You might be surprise at the findings.
notesfromthemargin // December 28, 2007 at 8:48 AM
David,
an interesting article. As to why the Nation would publish it? SALES!
Any whiff of hard data in electioneering is worth newspaper sales. Not only for the edition that the poll appears in but also the edition with the parties reactions. (We won’t even get into the fodder it creates for the “talking heads”of the op/ed section”)
It would appear that UWI is trying to get inot the polling business. Does their methodology have to match CADRES? Not necessarily. The statisticians can argue for weeks on that.
Methodologies for all polls should be published to allow people to make an informed judgment as to the validity of the results. And I believe that all information should be published to reduce the vulnerability of the poll to charges such as the one levelled in this case.
I personally have questions on the nature of the “Swing” which has shown in all polls so far. There is a swing against the Government that is unquestionable. Is there a swing towards the opposition? I’m not sure. The analyses that I have read so far assume that disenchantment with the BLP is a vote FOR the DLP (they seem to ignore the possibility that the person may simply abstain) I would like to see more inquiry into this area.
The next election will turn on whether the Opposition can convince persons that they are a viable alternative. If those undecideds/disenchanteds stay home the BLP will win. If the DLP can get them into a polling booth, they will win.
I am not sure which of these scenarios will happen.
Marginal
Andrew // December 28, 2007 at 9:26 AM
In light of the assassination of the leader of the opposition in Pakistan–
I Still don’t know why Barbadians should vote for a Prime Minister, who makes sinister statements, like those made at Alexandria School.
One only has to read the comments coming from B.F.P.E, to see how persons, who are alleged to be followers of the BLP, are
threatening to burn and murder citizens like Adrian Loveridge.
These people are desperate yuh.. they know that they are losing, and will do anything to stay in power.
Jerome Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 9:27 AM
The LAP DOGS at the NATION NEWS….have played their part again !
Carol Martindale , Roxanne Gibbs et al….have failed to release the additional data from the UWI / George Belle poll !
No data on the % SWING against the BLP gov’t !
No data on the % DESIRE FOR CHANGE from the BLP gov’t !
This information was promised to be released Thursday 27 th Dec 2007 !
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 11:11 AM
God bless Owen Arthur!!!!
~b~f~p~e~
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 11:21 AM
Yuh mean to say dat dese yardfowls still wont give up duh foolishness an’ stop cussin’ pun de blog?
Desperate ppl fuh trute!!
Observing // December 28, 2007 at 11:54 AM
A poll that can only release selected information is a disservice to the people of Barbados and the participants of the poll. A government that can only post an edited version of its Prime Minister’s speech on its BLPTV web site is a disservice to the people of Barbados. Yet another reason to change.
Wishing in Vain // December 28, 2007 at 12:29 PM
notesfromthemargin,
from what I am seeing it clearly says to me that those swing voters are moving into the DLP camp just have a look at how the gap has closed and where it was before and where it is today, we also must remember that they are 9 seats that fall into that uncertain zone and will go to the DLP with any swingod 5.5 % away from the blp.
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 12:54 PM
Wishing in Vain,
You couldn’t have picked a better name for yourself.
As for David Thompson and his promise of a “surprise” when the DLP launches their campaign next week Wednesday, he better be careful that the “surprise” turns out to be something he did not expect.
While such talk may draw crowds out of curiosity, people will ultimately want substance, not gimmicks. It would have been wiser of him to deliver his message in a different manner, because it seems he is not advertising the leadership capabilities of himself and his party, but rather more concerned and distracted by a one-off red herring.
What I really want to see are DEBATES between the two leaders. That is the real clincher.
only me // December 28, 2007 at 1:36 PM
a poll is just that a pool ………only a fraction of people registered to vote are asked questions i never go by a poll or allow a poll to influence my vote …….i agree that 3 terms for a goverement are eneough cause after that they tend to get stagnant but i still dont see an alternative to the BLP .. the DLP will only ruin our ecomony again like they did in the late 80s early 90s .we have no choice but to go bck with the BLP
only me // December 28, 2007 at 1:37 PM
I WOULD LOVE TO SEE DEBATES BETWEEN THE 2 LEADERS
Jerome Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 1:49 PM
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 12:54 pm
Wishing in Vain,
You couldn’t have picked a better name for yourself.
As for David Thompson and his promise of a “surprise” when the DLP launches their campaign next week Wednesday, he better be careful that the “surprise” turns out to be something he did not expect.
While such talk may draw crowds out of curiosity, people will ultimately want substance, not gimmicks. It would have been wiser of him to deliver his message in a different manner, because it seems he is not advertising the leadership capabilities of himself and his party, but rather more concerned and distracted by a one-off red herring.
What I really want to see are DEBATES between the two leaders. That is the real clincher.
***************************************
Bring your……chair & keep focus on the BIG SCREEN !
You CHEQUE…..what I mean ?
$ 750,000.00 reasons not to miss this main….EVENT !
Adrian Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 2:26 PM
I don’t like the sound of this surprise thing of an announcement. It trivializes this campaign, however i have to believe that with his IMF secret deal claim of the past that he is mindfull not to make this same mistake again. Actually it would be a bombshell if part of the surprise is the proof of that IMF secrete deal of yore. Owen never disowned the possibility of a secret deal back then,….he challegned Thompson on the IMF secret deal charge by asking him where is the devaluation. Will have to wait and see.
Wishing in Vain // December 28, 2007 at 3:01 PM
This adminstration is devoid of any moral aspect at all it is the most callous , depraved and dishonest bunch ever gathered to form a gov’t.
frankology // December 28, 2007 at 6:54 PM
One only has to read the comments coming from B.F.P.E, to see how persons, who are alleged to be followers of the BLP, are
threatening to burn and murder citizens like Adrian Loveridge.
……………………………………………………………………..
Where are the scientific evidents to link a particular party with these so-called threats.
We only hear one person say it is a BLP operative and everybody jump on the band wagon and the story becomes colourful.
No political party would allow their surporters to be violent when it will have serious long-term repercussion on the party.
Jerome Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 7:46 PM
No political party would allow their surporters to be violent when it will have serious long-term repercussion on the party.
******************************************
FRANKOLOGY,
You got to be sleeping !
What happened in PAKISTAN yesterday ?
Didn’t the gov’t of PAKISTAN suspend the CONSTITUTION to outlaw the opposition ?
Didn’t Owen Arthur & the BLP tried to SUSPEND the Barbadian constitotion….against the wishes of the OPPOSITION ?
caricom // December 28, 2007 at 8:05 PM
wiv if I didnt know better i would guess you are cyberspace Clyde Mascoll. Why you ask? Because the words you used to describe BLP were exactly same words Mascoll used to describe BLP..when he was leader of DLP.
Concerned Bajan // December 28, 2007 at 8:08 PM
Seems like Bell has to get back to the drawing board. The Nation should apologize to the nation for foisting a bogus poll on Barbadians.
Jerome Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 8:32 PM
George Belle is a BLP pimp who allowed the Nation news paper to use him !
Read page 4 of the Nation NEWS PAPER of 24 th December 2007.
Peter Wickham states that the question of LEADERSHIP between Owen Arthur & David Thompon…..it is only 1% that SEPARATES the two of them.
GEORGE BELLE…..AGREED by stating ” that leadership was not the only factor nor was OVERWHELMING in the upcoming poll ”
Yet that pimp allowed the Nation News to publish their POOP without asking for a RETRACTION !
Jerome Hinds // December 28, 2007 at 8:34 PM
Nation news paper to use him !
Read page 4 of the Nation NEWS PAPER of 24 th December 2007.
Peter Wickham states that the question of LEADERSHIP between Owen Arthur & David Thompon…..it is only 1% that SEPARATES the two of them.
GEORGE BELLE…..AGREED by stating ” that leadership was not the only factor nor was OVERWHELMING in the upcoming poll ”
Yet that pimp allowed the Nation News to publish their POOP without asking for a RETRACTION !
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 8:43 PM
” Georgie Porgie // December 28, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Infact WIV we seem to have in the BLP a satanic triumvirate that mimics that in Revelation in the form of THE BEAST THE ANTICHRIST & THE FALSE PROPHET”
You are quite a FOOL.
frankology // December 28, 2007 at 9:24 PM
Didn’t Owen Arthur & the BLP tried to SUSPEND the Barbadian constitotion….against the wishes of the OPPOSITION ?
…………………………………………………………………….
I surely was sleeping, please enlighten the public of the period it was contemplated.
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 11:12 PM
The BLP CROOKS fear that Peter Wickham’s Polls will show the true position of the the BLP and that will hurt them even further.
So they import this boxill jackass to tell them what want to hear. In colusion with BLP card carring member Dr. George Belle they hope to fool the Bajan public.
The DLP needs to come up with a strategy to counter this Propoganda.
Something Owen “fraud” Arthur said after making his deposit at the Treasury that caught my attention. He said that the BLP mechanisms in Barbados and the region were activated.
What mechanism in the region the BLP have activated?
Was he refering to boxill and others and what else?
Anonymous // December 28, 2007 at 11:33 PM
Dion Greenidge is also a member of the BLP.
Does anyone have any more info on her?
Willie Lynch // December 29, 2007 at 12:02 AM
DION GREENIDGE
dgreenidge@uwichill.edu.bb
Bajejun // December 29, 2007 at 7:55 AM
It is interesting to note that Owen Arthur in the Nation newspaper sought to imply that David Thompson in his call for three public debates among the leaders was in fact also announcing no confidence in his colleagues since he did not seek to include then in any of the debates. This statement alone is proof why the voting public should be wary of what comes out of this man’s mouth. He in his nomination speech went to great effort to try to show how his parents raise him to be honest, however I dear say they failed. In the last two elections was not the campaign slogans for the BLP ” Owen now more the ever”, and ” We goin wid Owen”. Were these not no confidence in your colleagues. As a matter of fact when the date of January 15 was announced for election did the Nation Newspaper not carry an article showing Dugid’s constituency office being plaster with flyers the read “Owen now more than ever”. not even he had the courage to promote himself. THAT SIR IS NO CONFIDENCE.
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 9:09 AM
Bajejun,
Get a brain and look for common sense.
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 9:12 AM
DON’T LET ANYTHING spoil your Christmas!
Think as a positive Barbadian and reach for the stars. Change is coming your way. That is our message to the people of Barbados this Christmas, even though thinking Barbadians would be extremely disturbed by the statements made by the Prime Minister last Sunday at his nomination, suggesting that it is his desire to remain in office for life.
While the rabid Barbados Labour Party (BLP) acolytes and How Great Thou Art singers may have lost their ability to reflect on the dangers of this statement, the rest of Barbados has to take the words Arthur used seriously. These statements portend badly for politics in Barbados.
Arthur’s statement that he is motivated in a special way “never to see the DLP hold the reins of office in this country” has disturbed many Barbadians since the system we practise is a multi-party system. If the Democratic Labour Party or any other political institution is permanently kept from power, this means that Arthur and his outgoing Barbados Labour Party will permanently govern the affairs of this country. How would he and the BLP achieve this?
We have found that Arthur’s statements sound frighteningly similar to those uttered by Forbes Burhnam years ago. These statements are particularly distressing in the context of a government which only last month attempted to impose legislation that would have tinkered with the constitutional protection guaranteed to civil servants and, moreover, is committed to the pursuit of a republic here.
Arthur’s obvious obsession with the retention of power is in many ways what we have been talking about for some time now and is exacerbated by the fact that his stated reason for wanting to hold office is a desire to keep the DLP away from office. This is an admission that there is no good reason to re-elect him. Clearly, he recognises that his record is poor and does not warrant re-election, hence he now tries to scare the people of Barbados into believing that the DLP is the problem, in the hope that he will be given a fourth term.
These statements reveal much about Arthur’s strategy which, for the last 13 years, has distracted the population by focusing excessively on the DLP, while he and his BLP have been mismanaging this country with alarming consequences. [For example], $750 million in cost over-runs, the deterioration of our public services, the treatment of the poor, the failure to solve little problems while focusing on the needs of the BLP’s supporters.
The DLP has previously and successfully managed the affairs of this country and we are now once more ready to resume this role. Our leadership is clearly now more critical if we are to save Barbados from these BLP power-hungry fanatics who are concerned only with power and not with our national development.
As we offer ourselves, we do so with full regard and respect for the principles of democracy which inevitably will work both for and against political parties from time to time. The DLP has experienced the best of times as well as political adversity. However, we have always respected the wishes of the electorate and will never seek to impose ourselves on the people of Barbados for longer than the people of Barbados desire our leadership. The Prime Minister would do well to remember that he was elected by the people of Barbados and that Barbados does not belong to him or the Barbados Labour Party.
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 9:17 AM
Jerome Hinds,
Desperation Lies and Propaganda.
If you want to help the DLP, you would make a good start by shutting up. Or better yet use your services for the BLP.
I would NEVER vote for any party which you support.
Do you thinks Bajans are idiots, you clown?
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 9:17 AM
WHAT A CARING LEADER
Caring Leaders continuously talk with those who they lead. Caring leaders don’t forsake their people, throw them to the wolves and then come back to them almost a year later because they need these same people to help them with their political survival.
Where was Prime Minister Owen Arthur since his budget presentation of March 2007 ??? Where was his voice when we needed him most ?? When others were saying that something needed to and could be done about the high cost of living, where was he ???
Where was his voice regarding:
The calls for Transparency and Accountability
The Government’s Provision and Ensuring of Affordable Land and Housing for Citizens
The QEH MESS and General problems in provision of Health Care
The Declining Behaviour and Attitudes in our School System
The Decline in the achievement of CXC certification among boys
The Expansion of the drug culture and the brazen public drug use seen among our youth
The Road Horrors experienced by our motorists
The Public Transport Problems and BAD ‘ON ROAD’ behaviour of Private PSV workers
The Serious Problems with Poverty that Dame Olga Spoke about on 19th Dec 2007
The Need for Vendors to be adequately accommodated and located
The Demise of the Small Used Car Businesses
The failings of CWC World Cup despite its’ high cost and many unfulfilled promises
The Hardwood Issue
The High Costs Overruns of Government
The Allegations about Contract Builders like Veco (prison) and 3 S’s (ABC highway)
Suddenly as the election was drawing near, he tries to give a little ease here and there with some food items and the light bill costs, after saying that the DLP’s idea of selective price control could not work He now wants to talk with us at Town Hall Meetings.
MAYBE HE WAS TOO BUSY PUTTING TOGETHER HIS GRAND PLAN TO ENSURE HIS 16TH DEC 2007 PUBLICLY STATED DESIRE, “TO NEVER AGAIN SEE THE DLP HOLD THE REINS OF OFFICE IN THIS LAND”
WHAT A THREAT TO OUR DEMOCRACY !!! NO WONDER HE HARASSES AND CURSES THOSE WHO PUBLICLY OPPOSE HIM OR HIS GOVERNMENT.
ERIC GAIRY OR FORBES BURNHAM COULD NOT HAVE SAID IT ANY BETTER
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 9:18 AM
Wishing in Vain,
Another desperate DLP loser.
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 9:48 AM
Jones: PM and party desperate
The DLP Christ Church team – (from left) Ronald Jones (Christ Church East Central), Taan Abed (Christ Church West), Stephen Lashley (Christ Church West Central), Dennis Lowe (Christ Church East) and John Boyce (Christ Church South) heading into the Treasury Building to pay their mandatory $250 deposit.
THE POLITICS OF DESPERATION is the last resort of Prime Minister Owen Arthur and his party, says Democratic Labour Party (DLP) candidate for Christ Church East Central, Ronald Jones.
He made the comment yesterday on behalf of the DLP Christ Church team – Taan Abed (Christ Church West), Stephen Lashley (Christ Church West Central), John Boyce (Christ Church South) and Dennis Lowe (Christ Church East) – who all arrived an hour after party leader David Thompson to pay their $250 deposits at the Treasury Building, The City.
“One recognises the nature of propaganda, particularly negative propaganda that we are dealing with, but the Barbadian community is one that understands that the Prime Minister has to demonstrate that type of behaviour at this time. It is almost akin to the politics of desperation, and when you are desperate you say and you do anything,” he said.
He gave an assurance that the Christ Church team would “romp to victory” because the people of Barbados were demanding change.
Meanwhile, Lashley said this election was “crucial because we have for the first time in our history a prime minister who is willing to discard all opposition forces”.
“Anytime you have in a country a prime minister who is bold enough to say that he wants to have a sole-party-state, then every Barbadian must become concerned.
“And I have rededicated myself to this campaign even more since the Prime Minister was bold enough to reach out to Barbadians and make such an absurd statement,” he added.
Lowe said they were dedicated to fight for a Barbados that belonged to the people: “Whether it is a house, a piece of land, appropriate job opportunities, opportunities to raise their families in peaceful and safe communities, whatever the case might be, we as a team are committed to ensuring that the message [gets] to the people.”
Georgie Porgie // December 29, 2007 at 10:02 AM
Wishing in Vain & Bajejun
I notice that you advance reasonable and well articulated arguments indicating why you think the populace should demit the BLP from office.
I notice also that you have done so with decorum, decency and without denigrating anyone.
Perhaps you took the time, and made the effort to benefit from the free education.
One wonders why your BLP detractors with nothing to say in thier defense even bother to respond. Their insulting remarks are no rebuttal to your remarks at all. It seems that your opposers dropped out of school and ENGLISH CLASSES.
Georgie Porgie // December 29, 2007 at 10:12 AM
Bagejun wrote
It is interesting to note that Owen Arthur in the Nation newspaper sought to imply that David Thompson in his call for three public debates among the leaders was in fact also announcing no confidence in his colleagues since he did not seek to include then in any of the debates. This statement alone is proof why the voting public should be wary of what comes out of this man’s mouth. He in his nomination speech went to great effort to try to show how his parents raise him to be honest, however I dear say they failed. In the last two elections was not the campaign slogans for the BLP ” Owen now more the ever”, and ” We goin wid Owen”. Were these not no confidence in your colleagues. As a matter of fact when the date of January 15 was announced for election did the Nation Newspaper not carry an article showing Dugid’s constituency office being plaster with flyers the read “Owen now more than ever”. not even he had the courage to promote himself. THAT SIR IS NO CONFIDENCE.
I noticed the same in his so called vision video, and thought that his response was an obvious nonsequitur.
It is noteworthy that Thompson sought debate on specified topics, upon which he clearly has something pertinent and powerful to propagate. The PM with a tired brain, is not quite up to the cut and thrust of debating Thompson on these matters. Consequently he must dismiss Thompson’s request and spout his own bovine excrement.
Since the BLP insists that the DLP has no leadership and that Thompson is a poor leader, Owen should have jumped at the opportunity to demolish Thompson once for all, and gather the spoils all for him self as he desires. By backing down and runny away like a dog wounded by a well placed stone, Arthur indicates that he is not as sure as he suggests. Or, maybe he is afraid that there is some damaging truth that Thompson might reveal in such a debate that might have him so much on the backfoot that he gets out hit wicket (or as we used to say as children “cut down.”
Surely it is true, as it is written THE GUILTY FLEE WHEN NO MAN PURSUETH.
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 11:00 AM
There is a breaking development that will stun may of you.
The details will follow shortly, but it is not a healthy sign it is actually a very disturbing action.
More will follow later as soon as I have the documents in hand.
WHAT A CARING LEADER // December 29, 2007 at 11:13 AM
stun many of you
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 11:55 AM
If there was any doubt about our freedom and our DEMOCRACY it is now a proven fact that it is under sever threat.
MORE TO FOLLOW BUT IT IS NOT GOOD NEWS!!!
Jerome Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 12:27 PM
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 9:17 am
Jerome Hinds,
Desperation Lies and Propaganda.
If you want to help the DLP, you would make a good start by shutting up. Or better yet use your services for the BLP.
I would NEVER vote for any party which you support.
Do you thinks Bajans are idiots, you clown?
**************************************
You wait for the TREMOR on the 16th of Jan, 2008 !
Adrian Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 12:29 PM
WIV what are you talking about? who got arrested? or beat up or what ever it is you are hinting at? give us what you have and stop acting like the mainstream media.
Jerome Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 12:31 PM
WHAT A CARING LEADER // December 29, 2007 at 11:13 am
stun many of you
****************************************
WHAT A SNARING LEADER…..in OWEN ARTHUR !
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 12:47 PM
I will but I am awaiting the hard facts in black and white.
It will explain how and why out DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS ARE UNDER ATTACK.
Adrian Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 12:54 PM
If something has occurred then it has become a fact. You can state that now, and when the facts of who “done it” are available you can come back and add the additional facts. Is this to do with the shooting death of Kenrick Hutson? I just heard Sleepy Smith talking about him, was he a known DLP supporter member?
DE BUMBLE BEE // December 29, 2007 at 12:54 PM
DE BUMBLE BEE // December 29, 2007 at 4:53 pm
Barbadians are still waiting on our LEADER Owen Arthur to condemn the killing of the opposition leader in Pakistan !
Or it because that a COMMONWEALTH country should not have an opposition party….EVER AGAIN ?
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/index.pl/article_news?id=161256458
Wishing in Vain // December 29, 2007 at 1:38 PM
No It has everything to do with the abuse of PRIME MINISTERIAL POWER and the reach this POWER has into the regular MEDIA.
I will deliver to you the facts pertaining to this event but I am awaiting the required documents.
It really is a very sad day in the live of Barbados when the abuse of POWER can and is taken to the extreme as it has been taken in this manipulation of the freedom of the press, freedom of speech, freedom of association.
We are dealing with a CABINET and in PARTICULAR A PRIME MINISTER who is bent on POWER to continue to carry out his illegal actions against honest BARBADIANS, bent on not having an OPPOSITION to OPPOSE his activity and his dishonest actions.
WE BETTER WAKE UP AND TAKE A STANCE BEFORE ALL IS LOST THIS IS A SERIOUS TIME IN THE LIFE OF THIS NATION, NEVER BEFORE HAS CORRUPTION BEEN SO EXPOSED, NEVER BEFORE HAVE WE EVER HAD A PRIME MINISTER SO INTENT ON ERADICATING THE LOYAL OPPOSITION FOR HIS DISHONEST MEANS.
Adrian Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 2:25 PM
Loyal opposition????? what is this? WIV i am not trying to be difficult, but at the sametime it is important to fully understand and appreciate your system of governance.
I have heard talk about “One party state” and while i share others concerns about the PM’s comment and i do so as far as elections and need for a vibrant multiparty system, as oppose to our two party system. The reality is that a One party state cannot occur in Barbados and be legally recognize as such. The constitution does not and cannot recognize such an occurance, even if in the minds of the populace such an event had occurred.
The Constitution recognize a Leader of the Opposition. It can’t both recognize the opposition’s leader and a one party state.
The Constitution DOES NOT recognize political parties neither does the parliament of Barbados.
What you can end up with, should one party win all contested seats is the nakedness, inefficient, and undemocratic mixed government system that pretends otherwise.
Just as the mockery of a MP who is a Loyal member of the winning political party is suppose to put off his partisan nature on assuming the office of Speaker and presiding officer of the house,….you can end up with the constitutionally recognize office of the Leader of the opposition being giving to any member of parliament, in spite of his political party offiliations,….so that the charade of governance and accountability can continue.
The Leader of the opposition as does the Speaker of the house, and the Prime Minister are offices of the parliament first and foremost. So they cannot ever be a legally recognize One party state, and people should stop referring to the Prime Minister as the Leader of Barbados, We did not elect or in anyway choose such a person. Thats why i have in my mind invalidate all this talk about Who shall lead us, and who is the better leader etc. It is all nonsense.
Adrian Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 3:24 PM
WhoDecides?
If as Mia Mottley correctly states, that the parliamentary team of the ruling political party chooses the Prime Minister and Leader of the country, and that a single constituentcy must validate this choice by first nominating this person to be their representative to parliament, why are we being encouraged to view this election and to make a choice of whom to give our vote too on the opinion of who is best suited to lead the country? WE THE PEOPLE HAVE NO SAY IN THIS BY WAY OF OUR VOTE. WE CAN ONLY VOTE FOR A REPRESENTATIVE NOT A LEADER.
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 5:03 PM
I notice that you advance reasonable and well articulated arguments indicating why you think the populace should demit the BLP from office.
I notice also that you have done so with decorum, decency and without denigrating anyone.
………………………………………………………………..
Oh Georgie Porgie, please forget the dramatics. You are trying to make out a case for your mentioned writers who are strong supporters of the Dems. as you may realised, out of ten commenters, you will find 8 being Dems, and the comments are inter-related as though information is coming from the same room.
This public relation behaviour is wukkin’ with every press statement made by the Dems being published within the blogs, I must compliment each and everyone of you for your professional PR tactics. Probably, we will see the entire manifesto on this site.
I know that the ruling party have no intention in pursuing Integrity Legislation at this time, but we were informed by the Leader of the Opposition that prior to elections, he would ensure every candidate produce financial statements. We await confirmation on Nomination Day.
Georgie Porgie // December 29, 2007 at 6:47 PM
Frankology
I am not being dramatic at all.
I am just accustomed to posting on a highly moderated forum for professionals, where bad language and insults are not permitted.
Your comments that 8/10 posters are strong DLP supporters is indicative perhaps of their persuasion that this is a crucial time- and one for change.
Your comment that these posters are so inter-related as to suggest that they are coming from the same room is a non sequitur, and false. As it is I am posting from the city in FL where they worship the Mouse.
I am not a member of the DLP, nor do I know their inner workings.
I do know, however, that I was personally mistreated by the BLP, and I will now use all my abilities with a view to dethroning these folk without abusing others on this forum.
Objections, and comments such as you have made, serve only to reinforce my commitment to this purpose.
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 7:54 PM
I am no memeber of the DLP.
The room I am in is my living room, only one computer in it and my wife is sitting watching TNT.
No group of DLP supporters here. Sorry to disappoint you.
Anonymous // December 29, 2007 at 7:57 PM
Let me also add, I just an ordinary Joe who has had enough of the BLP and can’t wait for Jan. 15, or Jan, 16th to go to the polls vote the BLP OUT
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 8:19 PM
Hi Anonymous, Goodnight to you, How was your Xmas and my blessings for good health to you and your family.
As you know I am not for any Bees or Dees. I deal with issues that are posted, and unfortunately, the most posters are Dees, thus my constant fights with my friend WIV and Jerome. I would also like a change of Goverment, based on a transparent form of Governance, where our people will have a better way of life, corruption will be eliminated, political pestering using individuals to undermine others will be a thing of the past, health care must be improved, although we are in the forefront of health care in the region, the lowering of cost of living and finally a two-term government.
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 8:21 PM
Are we having 2-day polling? Please let me know since I see you mention 15th & 16th.
Undertaker // December 29, 2007 at 8:56 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owen_Arthur
Georgie Porgie // December 29, 2007 at 9:45 PM
Frankology
How would you improve healthcare Sir?
Adrian Hinds // December 29, 2007 at 10:27 PM
And i live in Pawtucket Rhode Island USA
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 10:31 PM
How would you improve healthcare Sir?
……………………………………………………………………
An improvement should consist of the embracing of all the goods and services designed to promote health, including “preventive, curative and palliative interventions. It should embrace physical and mental well-being of the newborn to the old age.
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 10:34 PM
And i live in Pawtucket Rhode Island USA
……………………………………………………………………..
Greeting Adrian to you and your family. Are you looking to have a Barbadianise healthcare system in Rhode Island?
Anon // December 29, 2007 at 10:46 PM
If someone asks you how you will vote, there is one safe answer – BLP. People are scared to say DLP.
I predict that there will be a sizeable swing of declared BLP voters changing over to the DLP on election day.
The DLP has not made their presence felt, but the BLP are tripping over themselves in their efforts to lose this election.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 1:21 AM
Yardbroom
December 26, 2007 at 1:27 pm
The BLP poll, not only exposes them as failures but it also indicates how we, as a people, have waited patiently for this time.
A new dawn is breaking, and with that dawn’s awakening, rises the dreams of Barbadians. More than four decades ago, a Barbadian of great talent and endeavour, brought our beloved country to independence.
I will give him and his family, the courtesy his eminence deserves, by referring to him by name, that being the Rt. Hon Errol Walton Barrow, father of independence.
A name such as his, should be mentioned, because he taught us, that although a small island, we are not a small people.
At this moment, when a rebirth of our country is possible, when a chink of light seeps through the dark void, in which for too long we have recently inhabited, a new leader has come before us.
The time for change is upon us, and a decision has to be made, the decision will be about stewardship, proper governance, honesty, probity, integrity and a genuine love for the community for which parliamentarians will be elected to serve.
In assessing the governance of an administration at the end of term – in this instance three terms – one must ask what have they done; how have they done it, and were promises freely given, kept; were they prudent with resources; and were they accountable for their actions.
Do you recall the Chinese workers, who were not supposed to be in Barbados, and yet they were. No one was prepared to have the honesty, to step up to the plate and tell the general public what was going on. There was the arrogance of silence. Like children, we are expected to quickly forget, Barbadians are like that, they believe, but are we?
What about the cheque for $750.000.00 mentioned in the houses of Parliament. I make no allegation of any kind, I will only refer you to the incident as it happened in Parliament, you come to a conclusion.
The prison contract over runs, was the contract in US dollars or Barbados dollars, no one in a position of authority seemed to know.
Do we need a flyover, how will it be funded, is it too expensive, cost over runs, incompetent financial management, the experience of the selected contractor and his history in that field.
The Cricket World Cup, heaven and earth moved, money in prodigious amounts spent, but a “dark evening” was had by all. The gloom in which the final was played, symbolised the sorry debacle of management. I will not dwell on the humiliation of our police, I mention it only in passing, it pains me.
The beaches, our pride, and beloved by all, we always knew regardless of how poor we were, we could go to the beaches and frolic with our family and friends. Now the roads , tracks and little alleys to them are barred, rocks and man made outcrops obstruct our path – officials give acceptance by silence, inhibited often by knowing what actions certain people expect of them.
Large tracks of land are sold, indigenous people are “invisible,” the only consideration is how much the foreigner will pay. Barbadians therefore suffer exclusion by price, colour does not prevent you, price does. When you have to be super rich to buy a small piece of land, something is very wrong indeed. These lands might as well be in “Afghanistan” ordinary Barbadians will “never ever” be able to purchase them. The end result is, the general population is gradually being squeezed into a smaller area.
Some rich people seem able to flout the Law, the law as we know it, does not apply to them. The law is to be obeyed, only by the unrepresented poor, the “common man.” When the rich see no need to respect the law, the common people will ultimately do the same, and the result will be anarchy.
Fortunes are being made, and squirreled away. Two, three, or even a dozen very rich black men/women will not make Barbados a great nation. What will, is the opportunity for our sons and daughters to prosper, that prosperity will permeate through the wider society, from which will come enterprising, businessmen and leaders. The base of opportunity and wealth for the average black citizen must be spread.
We must think less of “the poor black man” culture and concentrate on the “undustrious black man/woman”. We must think of our society, and what is needed to give the majority population a good standard of living,and life opportunities. I repeat, a couple very rich black men, is not good enough.
Finally we must be “inclusive” never against white or those who think they are. We must be for citizens of “our country” regardless of shades of pigmentation. I know how difficult this is considering our past, but it is a must, there is no other way, if we are to move forward as a nation.
We have come to a fork in the road, thankfully we are free to make a choice. One way will take us back from whence we came. Or we can move forward and upward and reach for the sky. Future generations will thank us, if we change for a much improved Barbados, our country deserves better, it is time for a change, and that change can best be brought about by the “Democratic Labour Party” led by David Thompson. The BLP have proved it will not happen under them.
Adrian Hinds // December 30, 2007 at 6:05 AM
frankology // December 29, 2007 at 10:34 pm
And i live in Pawtucket Rhode Island USA
……………………………………………………………………..
Greeting Adrian to you and your family. Are you looking to have a Barbadianise healthcare system in Rhode Island?
==============================
Barbadianise healthcare? what might that be? …… There are a number of retired Barbadians still living in the US who have decided not to return to Barbados, hindered by healthcare concerns. I don’t know what they may have concidered in concluding as they have, but I personally do not have a problem with my access to healthcare or it’s delivery and therefore do not comtemplate any change.
David // December 30, 2007 at 9:02 AM
Dr.George Belle rushed to the airwaves last week to discuss/explain the Chapo/Boxill poll which has come under heavy criticism; the result was to plant confusion and doubt about the poll in the public’s mind. Today Voice of Barbados is advertising that no less a person than Ian Boxill, respected pollster who has been associated with the reknown Carl Stone poll out of Jamaica will again have an opportunity to defend the Chapo poll. To bring balance,the radio stations seem hell-bent on this, Peter Wickham and New York correspondent Tony Best will put in an appearance. The program will be hosted by the indefatigable David Ellis.
Roger Rabbitt // December 30, 2007 at 10:07 AM
Bush Tea // November 28, 2007 at 9:11 am
David,
You see what could happen if intelligent, informed comment regularly came from Cave Hill on issues of public interest?
…………………………………………………………..
This comment was made in reference to Dr. Justin Robinson’s article published on BU on the cost of living.
When one considers the drivel coming from Dr. George Belle re: Chapo/Boxill poll, one wonders if there are really two Cave Hills. Sound intelligent reasoning on one hand, while on the other, comments are off the radar.
Would love to hear Bush Tea’s take on this one.
Roger
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 10:10 AM
David, The media here in BARBADOS has been tested and found very sadly wanting, it cannot gain an even near passing mark it is in a very sad state.
I say this because it was with very sad regret that I learnt than the freedom of the press has been kidnapped by the BLP and its gang of crooks with the intent to muzzle the press and to continue to do the dishonest and corrupt acts that it has long done.
I say this with every confidence that we are fuelling a CREEPING DICTATORSHIP when we look in today’s Nation newspaper and we look for the balance and the sincerity of the PETER WICKHAM article and find that there is none today, nor will there be any of his articles for the public to read and to take during this election period, add to that HARTLEY HENRY’S article has also been pulled but EZRA ALLEYNE’s is continued to be featured it smells, it looks, it feels of a CORRUPT DICTATORSHIP.
When the Prime Minister will get to lowest level to affect what the PRESS is allowed to PRINT OR PUBLISH and dictate to them who to remove as their writers, we are in a downhill slide to a DICTATORSHIP.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 10:22 AM
We also have another very sad development in this setup and that is under the present conditions we may not be provided the benefit of another free and honest poll before the elections, because of this action taken by the Nation Newspaper.
Well Arthur you certainly know how to trample on a DEMOCRACY and how to move to a DICTATORSHIP.
David // December 30, 2007 at 10:42 AM
WIV~Peter Wickham is being advertised as a member of the panel on the Down to Brass Tacks program today. Last time we checked VOB is owned by the same parent as the Nation newspaper. Maybe Peter will get a chance today to confirm the information you have released to day.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 11:09 AM
Maybe some one should directly address him and that issue with him.
Further to this development there is some doubt that DAVID ELLIS will be allowed to continue the CALL IN SHOWS.
We have so many questions to ask about our freedom and our continued rights.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 11:14 AM
Right up front and moments ago Peter Wickham has now confirmed to the public of Barbados that his four articles have been pulled from being printed in the Nation News.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 11:18 AM
LEADERSHIP
The true test of leadership comes during difficult times for the leader and his team.
In January 2006 the former DLP Opposition Leader Clyde Mascoll, the BLP’s most strident critic, in a move unprecedented in Caribbean Politics, crossed the floor to joint the bosom of Owen Arthurs’ Cabinet. Independent analysts stated that it had so devastated the DLP and left it in utter shambles that the party would take a very long time to ever become a political force to be reckoned with in Barbados.
In less than 23 months the DLP under the astute leadership of David Thompson has been transformed to so potent a Political Unit, that is now seen as a viable alternative to the BLP.
In this his second phase of Political Leadership, there in no doubt that David Thompson has displayed the substance that those ultimately rated as good leaders are made of.
Wishing in Vain // December 30, 2007 at 11:33 AM
My fear of a DICTATORSHIP is a very serious aspect of my reason for change.
This admistration has clearly shown its willingness to take us down the road of a DICTATORSHIP.
Let us address the withdrawal of PETER WICKHAM from writing articles for the Nation and the risk of the halting of CALL IN SHOWS, and from what I have been reading and what I have heard that this gov’t has undertaken illegal means to tap into private citizens telephone calls, text messages and internet activity such as the interception of emails etc, this was facility was first introduced with the CWC and has since been put into active use to control and monitor the actions of those not favourable to the DICTATOR.
David // December 30, 2007 at 1:14 PM
Seems to BU that Tony Best was sent to the call-in program to act as some kind of blocker? We had a negative vibe from Best contributions. David we scored highly on the program today.
What we found interesting is that Dr. Boxill was unable to speak to the nuances and cultural peculiarities of the Barbados political landscape.
frankology // December 31, 2007 at 8:51 AM
WIV, are your articles banned from the Nation?
Adrian Hinds // December 31, 2007 at 10:04 AM
avid // December 30, 2007 at 1:14 pm
Seems to BU that Tony Best was sent to the call-in program to ask as some kind of blocker? We had a negative vibe from Best contributions. David we scored highly on the program today.
What we found interesting is that Dr. Boxill was unable to speak to the nuances and cultural peculiarities of the Barbados political landscape.
==============================
You all does give Tony Best to much credit. Most Barbadians in diaspora don’t know who he is, and could care even less.
David // January 8, 2008 at 1:14 AM
With the election on the horizon can we safely assume that the final national poll will come this weekend?
POLLSTER // January 8, 2008 at 9:47 PM
DAVID,
Kindly do some investigation on what I am about to say .
Information reaching me indicates that the soon – to – be released Ian Boxill poll have the findings 18 seats to the DEMS. 12 seats to the BEES .
Unfortunately, Owen got wind of these results after Ian Boxill shared the information with his cousin living in the parish of St. John and other close associates.
THE RESULT : Owen Arthur has insisted that he REVERSE the results.
BOXILL RESPONSE : CORRUPT Owen Arthur pay me my money…..then you can
” doctor the poll results ”
ABSOLUTE POWER CORRUPTS !
David // January 12, 2008 at 1:56 PM
Those of you who has been asking us to review/comment on the recent polls, please note that we have not read them. We believe that polls which are released so close to election date only serve to be manipulative. If it is one change we would make to the election law next time it would be to ban the release polls a couple months leading to elections.
Observing // January 13, 2008 at 11:50 AM
GEorge Belle is a Bee. Ian Boxill lacks knowledge of the local political culture (his quote on Brass Tacks). This poll attempts to make leadership as the major criteria for choosing a party, yet, their own data shows that people are more concerned with thier MP, or a combination of MP and Prime Minister when making their choice. The analysis seems skewed towards presenting an already decided bias. Sad.
Adrian Hinds // January 13, 2008 at 12:05 PM
I think the people of Barbados are treating to Mr. Boxhill and his work in the same vein as they would have treated Jennifer Lazzlo and her work. Mr Boxhill barbadian heritage being overshadowed by his strong Jamaican accent. Somehow bajans don’t like non-bajans messing with their politics. :D
David // January 13, 2008 at 12:09 PM
The silence of Boxill in this discussion is revealing. Should we read anything into it or is he being a respectful participant.
He keeps repeating that he does not have the historical data. Yet he is able to make a clear prediction of the swing vote. Tuesday will do a lot to build Peter Wickham’s reputation as a pollster we think
Anonymous // January 13, 2008 at 12:55 PM
“The silence of Boxill in this discussion is revealing.”
What sort of rubbish is that?
We can sense the sadness among the BU yardfowls.
Dr. Justin Robinson // January 13, 2008 at 1:06 PM
The leader of the DLP put the ABC project under scrutiny as part of his party’s electoral campaign. After his comments and allegations I was rather pleased when it was indicated that Ralph “Bizzy” Williams had taken the time to write a letter to the newspaper on the issue.
I must admit that I was rather disappointed with the letter.
Mr. Williams makes no comment on the allegation of no formal contract between the government and the main contractor 3S. Mr. Williams also makes no comment on the allegations of an absence of formal drawings, specifications and Bills of quantities for the project. I had rather hoped that someone with the knowledge and experience of Mr. Williams would have shed some light on what appears to be some rather glaring management errors.
Mr. Williams appears to attribute most of the “cost overruns” to increases in the price of steel. He would have been rather more persuasive if he had provided some information as to what percentage of the cost of the project is related to the price of steel. Maybe its my ignorance about the cost structure of these types of projects, but simply saying that the increases in the cost of the project are in line with the increases in the price of steel seems inadequate. For example, if steel accounts for 50% of the cost of the project, a fifty percent increases in the cost of steel would lead to a 25% increase in the cost of the project.
Mr. Williams refers to delays caused by technocrats , but he provides precious little information to support his contention. In my view the relevant issue is whether or not any interventions by technocrats were outside normal procedures.
I expected rather more from such a well informed and knowledgeable commentator, and in my view he has done little to advance discussion on this important issue.
NEW POLL FAVOURS BLP TO WIN // January 13, 2008 at 1:10 PM
NEW NUMBERS
UWI poll favours Barbados Labour Party to win fourth term
See the FRONT PAGE of today’s SUNDAY SUN!
Brutus // January 13, 2008 at 1:50 PM
Dr. Robinson,
I have assumed that part of the reason for proceeding with the highway work before the designs were completed and the contract properly negotiated, was the haste to complete it prior to the World Cup. In the position that Mr. Williams has taken (as per his letter to the press) he implicitly suggests that he is happy with the weaknesses identified. In fact, his expressed opinion is that it should all have been done a lot faster.
The flyovers make a lot of sense to him, and in his own companies that is sufficient to proceed as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, we must hold public projects to a much higher standard.
REB PLASTIC BAG now singing for the BEES // January 13, 2008 at 2:14 PM
I heard it on an announcement last night and thought that my ears had deceived me.
But TODAY when I opened by Sunday Sun, on the inside of the BACK PAGE, is an advertisement for the BARBADOS LABOUR PARTY free concert starting at 4:00 pm at Wotton Playing Field in Christ Church, and there among the long list of singers it appears:
RED PLASTIC BAG
On the eve of a general election in Barbados, how come this particular Bajan calypso legend and fierce political commentator is now SINGING WITH THE BEES?
Undertaker // January 13, 2008 at 2:46 PM
RED PLASTIC BAG
On the eve of a general election in Barbados, how come this particular Bajan calypso legend and fierce political commentator is now SINGING WITH THE BEES?
***********************************
What is the big deal? Does he not have his family to support and provide for? Lets get real here, the politicians want our vote. The singers what their money!
anon // January 13, 2008 at 2:50 PM
Does anyone realise that the dlp is in breach of the law in not indicating on their manifesto who published and printed their document. It appears that the dlp candidates are also in breach of the law when they did not indicate on their election flyers who published and printed them.
It appears david thompson is condoning the erection of billboards on people’s land even if the landowner approves. He however has not told the public that even if the landowner approves it is the town planner who has the final say.
Is Thompson’s mouthings on this matter symbolic as to how he proposes to run a country.
has anyone asked david thompson how much funding he is receiving from the former owners of Caribbean commercial bank
Anonymous // January 13, 2008 at 3:01 PM
Anon
“It appears david thompson is condoning the erection of billboards on people’s land even if the landowner approves. He however has not told the public that even if the landowner approves it is the town planner who has the final say.”
The Town planner is stooge. Town Planning refused to help persons in dire need of their assistance e.g.persons in French Village that are being affect by an asphalt plant which has NO permission and STILL have not shut them down.
Yet they can complain about billoards??? Gimme a break. The DLP have 60 days to remove the billboards, so they are NOT in breach of the law.
Furthermore I have noticed Miss Mottleys visage on the back of large road signs in the stretch between Hostheral Turning and the Junction at Combemere. I wonder if they are in breach of using Governmental infrastructure to mount a campaign.
Stop nitpicking and deal with the issues at hand.
anon // January 13, 2008 at 4:28 PM
Anonymous
Read the law. They are in violation of the town and country planning act. However even though there is a period for removal ( which is 28 days and not 60) they are still flouting the law.
Jerome Hinds // January 13, 2008 at 4:38 PM
Dr, Robinson has made some salient points on DIZZY BIZZY crazy clarification !
How can DIZZY BUZZY be taken seriously when he is in bed with the BLP on this project ?
Millions of $$$$$$ spent on a project with no DESIGN , BILLS OF QUANTITIES etc. yet this GREAT WHITE HOPE DIZZY BIZZY only raises his voice now that the CORRUPTION has been exposed by the DEMS !
Jerome Hinds // January 13, 2008 at 4:41 PM
anon // January 13, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Anonymous
Read the law. They are in violation of the town and country planning act. However even though there is a period for removal ( which is 28 days and not 60) they are still flouting the law.
***************************************
Only Owen Arthur flouts the LAW around here !
REMEMBER : Asking the SPEAKER of the HOUSE of ASSEMBLY to remove his
” INDENTURED SERVANT ” speech from……HANSARD !
Anonymous // January 13, 2008 at 5:13 PM
anon // January 13, 2008 at 4:28 pm
“Anonymous
Read the law. They are in violation of the town and country planning act. However even though there is a period for removal ( which is 28 days and not 60) they are still flouting the law.”
How is it flouting the law?? elections are called n the 15th, The boards went up NOT before the 30th therefore they are well within their rights. 28 ays ahve not passed.
You have yet to answer the question of theuse of the PUBLIC signs acting a surrogate billboard.
Nor have you commented on the incatio of Town Planning in FAR more serious matters, especially whe they BLP claims it is committed to being a Green government yet they are allowing some industries to do as they please.
Athony to boycott Taiwanese reception // January 13, 2008 at 5:51 PM
SUNDAY SUN, JANUARY 13,2008, 48A
Caribbean Link
Anthony to boycott reception
CASTRIES – The Opposition St Lucia Labour Party (SLP) says it will boycott a government reception to be held next week for President of Taiwan Chen Shui-ban who is scheduled for a state visit to St. Lucia.
In a statement Friday, Leader of the Opposition Dr Kenny Anthony said his party will not sit, eat or drink with representatives of a government who bribed officials to re-establish relations with St. Lucia.
“The SLP cannot endorse or welcome the President of a country whose Ambassador engages and interferes in the domestic pilitics of St. Lucia
“Ambassador Tom Chou is openly supportive of the UWP (United Workers Party) regime, finances political projects of the UWP parliamentarians, routinely ignores the financial rules and procedures established by the Parliament of St. Lucia, even to the point of selecting and paying the so-called contractors for projects selected by him and the UWP parliamentarians,” Anthony said.
The statement said that Ambassador Chou’s openly partisan behaviour has been provocative and disrespective of the sovereignty of the country and its people.
Corruption scandals
“It is also well known that the days of the president are numbered. A stream of corruption scandals has rocked his government, engulfed high-ranking officials of his party and the presidential family,” he said, adding that the president is not the kind of leader who should be welcomed to St Lucia at this time.
“The SLP will not, by any act of association, grant any legitimacy to a government that does not observe internationally accepted codes of conduct and behaviour,” the SLP leader noted.
The governing UWP last year established ties with Taiwan, resulting in China breaking off diplomatic relations with this tiny Caribbean island. China considers Taiwan a renegade state that is a part of its proper territory. (CMC)
Hard driver // January 13, 2008 at 6:58 PM
I hear that Owen Arthur is to make an address to the nation at 8:00 pm tonight ….
Is this fair ?? isn’t there rules governing election campaigning ?? If Parliament is dissolved and technically there is no Prime Minister, on what grounds does he have the right to make an appearance on national TV and does David Thompson not also deserve that right as well??
It just doesn’t seem fair to me …
frankology // January 13, 2008 at 7:24 PM
David had his already
Wishing in Vain // January 13, 2008 at 7:42 PM
REMEMBER THIS IS BARBADOS Hard driver
Anonymous // January 13, 2008 at 7:49 PM
LIVE and IN PROGRESS – The Barbados Labour Party FREE CONCERT at Wotton Playing Field, Christ Church.
Enjoy!
http://blp.org.bb/livetv
I will be voting BLP bright and early on Tuesday morning!!!!
Wishing in Vain // January 13, 2008 at 8:00 PM
I viewed it and it sounds very lack lustre and flat.
Are the performers copying the body language of the candidates and are accepting defeat will throw their tails out and the NEW DPP will asked to do his job?
Brutus // January 13, 2008 at 8:05 PM
We keep hearing this argument about Parliament having been dissolved and there being no Prime Minister.
Here is what he Constitution says:
66. (1) The office of Prime Minister shall become vacant-
(a) if he ceases to be a member of the House of Assembly for any reason other than a dissolution of Parliament;
(b) when, after an election of members of the House of Assembly following any dissolution of Parliament and before that House first meets thereafter, the Prime
Minister is informed by the Governor-General, acting in his discretion, that the Governor-General is about to re-appoint him as Prime Minister or appoint another person as Prime Minister;
For Ministers:
(3) The office of a Minister, other than the office of Prime Minister, shall become vacant-
(a) upon the appointment or re-appointment of any person to the office of Prime Minister;
(b) if his appointment to his office is revoked by the Governor-General, acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister, by instrument under the Public
Seal ;
(c) if, for any reason other than a dissolution of Parliament, he ceases to be a member of the House of which he was a member at the date of his appointment as a Minister; or
(d) if he is not a member of either House at the date of the first sitting of Parliament after a dissolution of Parliament.
Anonymous // January 13, 2008 at 8:45 PM
Oh lordie. Looka dem two “ZR” men pun stage doh.
YUM YUM I like it! // January 13, 2008 at 8:48 PM
What better reason to vote DLP, if the ZR drivers support the BLP!
I Wid David & DEM!!! // January 13, 2008 at 9:59 PM
I wud like de BLP and dey supporters to stop littering my verandah wid dat ‘election record’ garbage.
anon // January 13, 2008 at 11:59 PM
Hard Driver
Your comments on the PM addressing the nation highlight the fact that uyou do not know anything about election broadcast. The incumbent government is allowed 3 broadcasts paid for by the state. The one that was delivered tonight was the last one for the BLP. The opposition is allowed 2. As they could not find time to do a second one or did not want to risk exposing one of their candidates other than Thompson to such a job they merely repeated the first one they did with thompson. How sad this was!!!
anon // January 14, 2008 at 12:02 AM
The dlp appear to be ashamed of their manifesto. They have deleted it from their web site!!! check it out.
I cannot even find the new youth manifesto.Can anyone help or are they too ashamed to reveal it to non dlp followers
Undertaker // January 14, 2008 at 12:30 AM
I made some PRO Blp, posts about a week ago to BFP and they were “awaiting moderation” and then they did not get posted that NEVER happened to me before but since the elections it happened, that was after they openly said they where voting DLP I was explaining why I could not etc., also what the gov’t was doing right and where they let me down, but why I still feel better with them All decent posts nothing rude, crude no name calling etc. Nothing to warrant not getting posted, since then I have noticed that only the very pro DLP stuff gets posted. I have not visited that blog in the last 4/5 days and do not intend to do so until after elections, and also not as frequently as I used too. Seems that if you don’t attack the gov’t then you are a gov’t lacky overthere.
If I ever decide to post again on that blog is somethng I will have to give great thought too as well. For those posts to just disappear says a lot. For now I like it over here anyhow. Until………….
Undertaker // January 14, 2008 at 12:32 AM
anon // January 14, 2008 at 12:02 am
The dlp appear to be ashamed of their manifesto. They have deleted it from their web site!!! check it out.
*************************
I just checked and it is still there.
Damage Control // February 10, 2008 at 7:23 AM
GUEST COLUMN: No secret to polls
Published on: 2/9/08.
BY GEORGE BELLE
THE CHAPO/BOXILL POLL emerged out of a Faculty of Social Sciences, Cave Hill Campus project on psephology. There is no Belle/Boxill Poll. The arrangement was always for a team of professional researchers from the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS), Cave Hill Campus, to work in association with Dr Ian Boxill, professor of comparative sociology, Mona Campus, and head of a private psephology consultancy firm based in Jamaica.
The faculty psephology project is one of four short-listed for priority attention by the FSS. These are faculty projects distinct from individual or departmental projects and are team efforts by faculty members. The psephology project (the study and statistical analysis of elections and trends in voting) would have been listed as a priority faculty project since early 2007. The CHAPO/Boxill Poll emerged out of this.
The relationship with Professor Boxill was initiated when Professor Boxill approached me, as Dean, FSS, in May 2007 to examine the possibility of conducting a poll on the then upcoming general election in his capacity as a professional pollster.
Professor Boxill again approached me at the beginning of the academic year 2007/2008 and at that juncture we were aware that elections could possibly be called in a few months. We agreed to go forward with the project. This led to the formation of the Cave Hill Associates Polling Organisation (CHAPO) in December 2007, with Professor Boxill and his polling organisation coming on board in a joint relationship with CHAPO.
Professor Boxill serving as polling director, and Mr Dion Greenidge as data manager, conducted two workshops, training 50 plus students for the field work aspect of the poll. I served as the facilitator of the poll.
Based on my previous involvement in the public arena in terms of elections and my personal research interests in psephology stretching back decades, we agreed that Dr Boxill and I would be the public voices of the poll, with Mr Greenidge as a third option.
I did not design the research instrument, I did not collect data, I did not enter data, nor did I process any data. As I appeared on the various televised programmes and/or spoke to the media houses, I reflected the data provided to me from the polling exercise. This was the basis for my public statements in relation to the poll.
The CHAPO/Boxill Polling Organisation conducted two national polls. The first was conducted from December 7 to 17, 2007, and the second during January 4 to 7, 2008. The election date was announced before our first report was completed and consequently there was an urgency to publish the first report since the timing would only allow for one other national poll. The CHAPO/Boxill Polling Organisation decided to provide a shaved analysis of the first national poll to THE NATION and the Advocate.
In January, 2008, the CHAPO/Boxill Polling Organisation conducted a second national poll; in this instance negotiations were possible with media houses for the sale of findings. We are currently receiving payments from these organisations – THE NATION, the Advocate and the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation – for our polling results in relation to the second national poll. All financial issues were addressed under the financial code of the University of the West Indies (UWI).
The experience was a most uplifting one for the many undergraduate and postgraduate students who participated and the faculty members who engaged in hard professional work. What we shared with the public of Barbados was of tremendous heuristic value to the faculty as well.
With respect to questions raised by Mr Evelyn Greaves in the January 25 WEEKEND NATION, let me assure the public of Barbados there are no secrets, no conspiracies and no plots. All polls were done professionally by well-trained and competent personnel in the pursuit of knowledge.
As stated before, CHAPO is comprised of a team of faculty members of the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS), Cave Hill and Dr Ian Boxill, professor of Comparative Sociology at the Mona campus. Fifty plus students, undergraduate and post-graduate were trained by Professor Boxill and Mr Dion Greenidge as field workers to collect data. The instrument was designed by Professor Boxill and the data manager was Mr Dion Greenidge.
I am not a member of the Barbados Labour Party or the Democratic Labour Party and advised former Prime Minister [Owen] Arthur in a technical capacity. I was adviser to Mr Arthur on governance in relation to the Caribbean Single Market and Single Economy. I did not politically advise Mr Arthur in any other way. Many notable UWI academics, however, have advised prime ministers across the region in technical capacities and many others have been political confidantes, party members and political advisers.
Election polling is a legitimate research activity carried out by social scientists globally and particularly political scientists. I am pleased with this research effort by faculty members and I invite the public of Barbados to participate in our post-election symposium next month at which Professor Boxill will be present.