How do I debug an error that a plugin is causing?

First, you need to to find out what your current version of MYSQL…

WordPress requires MySQL 5.0 or greater

Since its a VPS, I’m assuming its a linux installation. Just type

mysql -V

on the command line and it will return your MYSQL version.

If the version is compatible with wordpress, this message may be a “plugin/theme related” message. Look at your plugins and themes and see if any of them have a specific MySQL requirement.