Disappointed in Virnet St Omer-Fontinelle

Constructive criticism is one thing, however, cronyism, insulting language and disrespect together can certainly help one judge individuals and personalities. When one evaluates the article written on The Star Newspaper of February 7, 2008 captioned “SOMETHING IS ROTTING AND IT SURE AIN’T DENMARK”, the content is most disconcerting and simply highlights the writer Virnet St Omer-Fontinelle as one with poor taste and not deserving to enjoy the privilege of freedom of expression.

Prime Minister Stephenson King is a decent individual, patient and very well mannered. A gentleman who has risen from the ranks and lived within his means. One does not necessarily have to earn thousands of dollars to be recognised, as recognition comes in various forms.

Individuals earning thousands or millions of dollars are entrepreneurs and highly skilled persons in specialised field who participate in areas that are able to disburse large sums of money for more reasons than one. We can point out outstanding individuals on both sides of the spectrum that have earned big bucks by the nature of their work while others have risen to great heights and have been compensated by other forms of recognition.

Prime Minister King is loved by many St Lucians and despite his role as head of state no form of arrogance has penetrated his character and Mr King discharges his duties peacefully.

St Lucia enjoyed its administration under two very strong leaders – Sir John Compton and Dr Anthony and though both leaders had their strengths and weaknesses, St Lucians are today comfortable with a leader who is extremely approachable and generally passive and the country needs such an individual at this point in time to defuse the ongoing power syndrome which has surrounded St Lucia for some years. This observation can easily be related to the tone of the various talk shows which take place two to three times daily.

Hopefully, the likes of Virnet St Omer-Fontinelle will review her thoughts, think cautiously and positively and try her utmost to respect the feelings and sentiments of St Lucians. Remember – The St Lucia Labour Party enjoyed a margin of 14 Parliamentary positions prior to 1997 but the United Workers Party achieved over 17,000 new votes match the SLP position and an additional 2400 votes to surpass the SLP making a grand total of 19,400 votes.

These mathematical changes don’t happen by chance. There are underlying reasons for these significant movements and 19,400 St Lucians could not possibly be incorrect. St Lucian needs to remain on a tangent of peace and Mr Stephenson King is likely to be the chosen one regardless of what minor deficiencies one may wish to attach to the Prime Minister not excluding the personal abuse of Virnet St Omer-Fontenelle.

Carlyle Mason