Back to normal...

Just a few pointers that after a period when it seemed that the country was going to the dogs, things seems to be getting back to where they should be.

Sartorial elegance

The Nation got us back to focusing on political issues as it reported on the first day of business for the new members of the House of Assembly. From what I could see of the pictures (not available to post but see link), most members did not dare cross the line of appropriate attire or hairstyles. Most of the men were in typically somber suits (black, grey) and had on nice shiny shoes (all laced, I hope, and no casual loafers). The papers noted that "Prime Minister David Thompson, [was] wearing a traditional black suit" and that "Former Prime Minister Owen Arthur looked a vision of relaxation, dressed in a navy blue suit complemented by a turquoise tie". Turqouise? Tss. Kinda close for comfort that. But we have a nice mantra: "Blue is relaxing. Hhhmm." They made no comment on the dress (or not) of Opposition Leader Mia Mottley; the photograph in the paper shows her in what looked like a dark olive trouser suit, but without a shirt, collar or tie. I wish I could get upset and rail about how "inappropriate" her attire was for the august chambers. Maybe someone else will soon fill that critical void. [On that and hair issues, some learned minds have now entered the discussions in the printed press looking at the legality and constitutionality of recent remarks and actions to ban students from places of education.]

The sparring started early and questions and answers were traded on the PM's recent use of a private jet, and whether this was paid for or a "freebie". We will crawl over the expenditure figures later to check the answers about the transactions.

Months of fun ahead.

LIAT (Left in Antigua Terminal)

For real this time. The Nation also reports that a plane cancellation (LIAT 729) yesterday stranded passengers there, including Bajan dignatories such as former central bank governor Sir Courtney Blackman, cricket expert and commentator Tony Cozier, and former banker turned talk-show moderator Tony Marshall. Reasons? According to LIAT CEO Mark Darby: "aircraft maintenance challenges" and a "manpower shortage caused by illness and resignation". Challenges are one of the new age euphamisms for incompetence. I am not sure which use of resignation is meant, quitting or admitting that you are beaten. So an expected 4.30pm departure turned into "other travel arrangements" for some, or a night at the Royal Antigua hotel for others (though not arriving till near midnight). Ironically, Mr. Marshall was back in Barbados in time to do his show and get down to brass tacks for an "explanation" from Mr. Darby. How fitting.

Such is life in paradise.