Is the Vincentian public being set up?

29.AUG.08

Editor: I read with disappointment the ‘Around The Courts’ items of the last two weeks of the incident of a Vincentian charged with fraud in Barbados and his attempts to tell his “side of the story”. What was the purpose of this “explanation” if for no other reason than to convince of innocence?{{more}} If truth be told, the young man had already parted ways with the company whose credit card he kept and used to pay for his hotel accommodation. If he was no longer working for the company, why would the company now be expected to cover his expenses? And if indeed the former boss paid for his trip and made the reservations, why would the former boss, who had remained close to this former employee, now report him to the Barbados authorities?

What have we learnt from this second week that attempted to prove there was a “set up”? It is obvious the young man was clearly aware of his intentions by keeping and using property that did not belong to him. His advice to young people that they should do a thorough check of any company they want to work with is outrageous. Young people should be advised instead to refrain from dishonesty, be accountable for their actions and be aware that Vincentian Nationality must be guarded with pride. At worst we were subjected to a double dose of this scourge of greed and “smartness”. Maxton Joseph was caught in the act so he apologized. This incident will further embarrass and plague honest Vincentians going about their business.

Beyond all this is the reality of the image of Vincentians in the wider world and particularly in Barbados. The Vincentian public also deserves an apology.

Not Fooled