ISSUE NO.101 July 2005
 HIGH COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE
Dear Readers,
The theme of this month's newsletter is one of celebration.
It is a reminder of the emancipation of our forefathers from
slavery which we celebrate on 1st August each year and it is
also a celebration of 500 days of renewed Good Governance by
the new UPP.
I therefore feel it is paramount that we read the historic
address delivered by Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer to fittingly
mark the end of our summer festival and the milestone of the
government in office.
These are indeed challenging times, however, as you read of
the activities undertaken by your government, we cannot but feel
a sense of pride in the united efforts of our fellow countrymen
as we chart a new course for the development of our homeland.
Happy reading!!
Dr Carl Roberts
High Commissioner
 Greetings, Antigua and Barbuda .
Antigua and Barbuda is still shining with
the afterglow of Carnival. You, too, must sense this. For all
who experienced it, Carnival 2005 succeeded spectacularly in
keeping the Wadadli Spirit alive.
By all estimates, participants in and spectators for the number
one summer festival hit record levels this year. By all estimates,
costuming, compositions and performances attained new heights
in Carnival 2005.
By all estimates, BET, the American Television network, will
take Antigua Carnival to record numbers of
viewers around the globe. This will be via a half-hour show that
BET shot live on location, here in Antigua and Barbuda in
the run-up to, and during Carnival. Now in post-production, the
BET show will premiere this fall. It will be seen by untold millions
in the United States and around the world,
in repeat broadcasts, into Spring of 2006. Credit for BET's in-depth
involvement in and coverage of Carnival 2005 goes to the Carnival
Development Committee and to the Ministry of Tourism.
I congratulate these organisations on the arrangement for
BET to provide this potent marketing opportunity for Antigua
and Barbuda .
I thank and commend all the volunteers and all the organisations
that made Carnival 2005 come alive as the super success it turned
out to be.
By all reports, Carnival 2005 was a peaceful and joyous love
fest.
Only two persons were reported as victims of injuries at the
hands of others in Carnival-related incidents. Those injuries
were considered minor. Great credit for the safety and good order
of this year's Carnival celebrations goes to the Royal Antigua
and Barbuda Police Force. The Police Force is now under
the command of the first female Commissioner of Police in this
part of the world, Ms. Delano Christopher.
For their sterling performance in ensuring a clean, safe and
thoroughly enjoyable Carnival 2005, I salute our top cop and
our recently restructured police high command, together with
our police officers of all ranks.
I acknowledge the valuable role of our Defence Force in all
of this. Throughout the Carnival season, our soldiers remained
at the ready, as ever present allies to our Police Force.
Last year, in response to a surge in incidents of persons
committing crimes involving violence, or demonstrating a propensity
to violence, the government introduced a number of legislative
measures to aid law enforcement. Those measures have proven to
be of immense value to the society and to the safety of our citizens
and residents.
They were manifestly a factor in the orderly conduct that
we witnessed during the Carnival Season.
Not surprisingly, the leadership of the Opposition party stridently
opposed those measures. The Opposition leadership will continue
their calculated and dangerous tactic of attempting to legitimise
criminal conduct as a justifiable response to the economic crunch
that has resulted directly from the corruption, ineptitude and
atrocious fiscal policies that the ALP inflicted on Antigua
and Barbuda for decades.
The voices of gloom and doom and personal invectives continue
to spew forth from Opposition quarters. The day after Carnival,
the voices of race hate and class confrontation were trumpeting
their vile and venom. They even went on the attack against Nigeria and
that country's President, who visited Antigua on
Tuesday. It was most unfortunate that the lead voice in belittling
the country from whence many of our ancestors came, and insulting
the President of Nigeria was that of former
diplomat who once represented Antigua and Barbuda at
the highest international level.
Any goodwill expressed by the Voices of Hate and False Witnessing
seems to be reserved for the lawless in our society.
While our opponents would coddle criminals, the Sunshine Government
recognises an obligation to respond to challenges to public peace
and safety with serious measures.
In any event, the selection of Antigua as
the venue for the Inter American Human Rights forum this week
is fresh acknowledgement of the regard in which the international
community has held this country since March 23, last year. Over
the past sixteen months, Antigua and Barbuda has
distinguished itself for good governance and for our landmark
enhancement of individual entitlement for all citizens. Acknowledgement
for this also comes from the UNDP. The regional office of the
UNDP is voluntarily providing funding for a programme to advance
institutional mechanisms for good governance in Antigua
and Barbuda . These mechanisms support the implementation
of our Freedom of Information Act; our Integrity in Public Life
Act; and our Prevention of Corruption Act.
The United Progressive Party introduced this landmark trilogy
of integrity and citizen entitlement legislation in our seventh
month in Government. These measures will ultimately contribute
to improving the standard of living and enhancing the quality
of life the Antiguan and Barbudan people will enjoy.
Under previous administrations, large amounts of money that
should have gone to providing public services to the population
were diverted to the pockets of high government officials and
their accomplices.
The new integrity laws and the new standards of governance
that the UPP administration has brought into force are meant
to make sure that the diversion of funds from the state to private
pockets are a thing of the past. I have already declared my position
on such matters quite categorically. There can be no compromise
with integrity in my administration. Corruption is a cancer that
can rapidly spread from occasional to endemic. Corruption in
public life should therefore be cauterized at the very first
symptom. This country, more than any other, must permit no compromise
on the strongest possible measures to prevent corruption.
That dismal legacy of the deposed dynasty must never again
be permitted to surface in Antigua and Barbuda .
With all of this, it is perhaps appropriate for me to now acknowledge
a particular debt of gratitude to Opposition commentators.
Every day, on their Hate Radio station, they publicly lament
the lengthening period since their loss of power, on Judgment
Day, March 23, 2004 .
On this score, it is generally believed that the Opposition
leadership's wailing and the gnashing of their teeth is destined
to be an unrelieved condition for a very long time. At any rate,
that condition is expected to extend well beyond the five-year
time line of the first term of the Sunshine Government.
Back, however, to my declaration of gratitude to the Sunshine
Government's Loyal Opposition.
On Friday 5th, Opposition front-liners reminded the world
- and they reminded yours truly - that Antigua and Barbuda had
completed the first 500 days of Government in the Sunshine.
The Opposition's daily count of the tenure of the Sunshine
Government reveals the burning obsession of the leadership of
that group over their loss of the power that the Antiguan and Barbuda people
wrested from them 502 days ago.
They focus on the passing days of the calendar in the way
that a convicted felon serving a long sentence marks off the
days on the wall of his cell.
The Opposition leadership is fixated on the projected date
of the next General Election. Their return to power by the next
election is the principal concern of the collaborators in the
dynasty that appears convinced that governing Antigua
and Barbuda is the exclusive birthright of a single
family. As I say this, I can imagine Antiguans and Barbudans
all over the world, and friends of our country, reacting to that
proposition with one sentiment:
“Perish the thought, they must all face justice!”
Though the UPP administration shares this sentiment, we insist
on being meticulous and deliberate in ensuring due process as
justice takes its course. That course is inexorable. Justice
for those guilty of crimes against the state and against he people
is as sure as the sun will rise.
This reference to Sir MacLean Emmanuel's prophetic verse,
brings this grand master of the art of calypso's counsel this
Carnival to mind. With profound wisdom and with all-embracing
effect, Short Shirt brought clarity to those clamouring for instant
solution to every problem with a chorus of three words, eleven
letters. “It takes time.”
Another titan in the Calypso art form continued to dominate
the competitive arena in Carnival 2005. With no such tolerance,
with little charity, and with unforgettable impact, Queen Ivena
conquered all comers, male and female, on her way to her fifth
Queen of Calypso victory and her third consecutive Calypso Monarch
triumph.
Ivena's achievement is without precedent and without parallel.
She has gone where no calypsonian, no performer, has gone before.
Ivena is richly deserving of national recognition appropriate
for a woman who, in tandem with composer, consistently delivers
socio-political commentaries that rank with anything any other
Antiguan woman, Jamaica Kincaid included,
has produced.
With all of this, the Sunshine Government is proceeding with
other dominant priorities.
It is perhaps fitting that we reflect, today, on the decisive
difference the Sunshine Government has made in our first 500
day semester.
Our overriding concern continues to be that we so govern Antigua
and Barbuda as to ensure the greatest good for the
greatest number of our citizens. We have been doing this on very
limited resources in an economy decimated by our predecessors.
To intensify the financial crisis created by the disastrous
policies of the previous administration, a significant portion
of the country's revenue streams were long ago committed to servicing
portions of the close to $3 Billion debt left by the ALP.
In the circumstances, we had no option but to proceed with
the re-introduction of personal income tax. However, it's so
structured to exempt a targeted 75% of all income earners from
paying any personal income tax. Together with this, we slashed
the rate of consumption tax on dozens of staple food items and
other high volume consumer products.
We have significantly increased the base rate of old age pensions.
We are providing all school children with free uniforms. The
Opposition derided this initiative.
Parents welcome it. In a programme that will ultimately serve
the bulk of the schools population, every day, starting next
month, the Sunshine Government will begin to supply thousands
of nutritionally balanced meals to children in a number of government
schools.
We kept our promise in delivering Christmas Gift Barrels at
a $1.00 a barrel to thousands of families.
In the face of major increases in the price of oil over the
past year, the Government has provided subsidies amounting to
millions of dollars to hold down the price of gasoline and diesel
fuel at the pumps. This, however, can no longer be sustained
and we can expect some adjustment in prices almost immediately.
We have commenced road improvements across the nation and
this will intensify over the coming months.
Work on the completion of the construction of the Mount St.
John Hospital will commence shortly, with a soft loan from the
Exim Bank of the People's Republic of China.
In a related matter, let me publicly recognize the significant
voluntary work being done by the group of patriotic Antiguans
and Barbudans in the refurbishing of the Holberton Hospital .
The government owes them a debt of gratitude and promises
to work closely with them in accomplishing the task of significantly
upgrading Holberton.
In a matter of weeks, my government in partnership with the
government of the People's Republic of China will
break ground for the construction of the Sir Vivian Richards
Cricket Stadium in time for World Cup Cricket 2007. The Sir Vivian
Richards Cricket Stadium is another gift to the government and
people of Antigua and Barbuda from our friend
the People's Republic of China .
My government cherishes the excellent relationship with China and
will continue to develop strong ties.
Barbuda is now better equipped with essential
facilities than ever before in our country's history.
For the first time, the MP for Barbuda is
a Minister in the Sunshine Government.
In another first, he was a member of the Antigua
and Barbuda delegation at the recent CARICOM Summit
We have just completed a new facility for vendors in downtown St.
John's .
We have brought the Deep Water Harbour up
to full compliance with new international standards for port
and ships security. We have retained international consultants
for the VC Bird Airport development project, which is now underway.
To protect jobs and air services, we continue to contribute
to keeping LIAT aloft.
In 2004, in a very challenging globalised trade environment,
the Antigua and Barbuda economy achieved a
4% level of growth that was second only to oil-rich Trinidad
and Tobago .
To protect revenue streams, we have suspended discretionary
Duty Free Concessions.
A measure of the impact of such concessions on the economy
is that in the month preceding last year's elections duty free
warrants for the importation of some 1,000 vehicles were issued
by the last administration.
We have begun to pay the country's debt to governments and
institutions across the globe, and Antigua and Barbuda is
steadily winning acceptance and respect in regional and international
affairs.
More and more, our counsel and involvement is sought on regional
and global issues.
On top of all the Sunshine Government has achieved in our
first 500 days, the 2005 Carnival Spectacular was icing on the
cake for Antigua and Barbuda .
We look forward, now, to an equally successful Independence Homecoming
Festival in a couple of months.
I look forward to welcoming back many times the numbers that
came home for Independence last year.
All can look forward to continuing progress in the next 500
days, and the next 5,000 days, of Government in the Sunshine.
I am Baldwin Spencer, your Chief Servant.
Thank you for joining me today for this edition of Action
Agenda
Until next time, may God be with you and your loved ones.
May God continue to bless our beloved Antigua and
Barbuda .
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PM Spencer signs Caribbean Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance On the 6th July, Prime Minister Baldwin
Spencer signed the Caribbean Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance
in Serious Criminal Matters while attending the CARICOM Heads of
Government meeting in St. Lucia .
 |
| Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer
signs the Treaty while CARICOM Secretariat's General Counsel,
Dr Winston Anderson looks on |
Prime Minister Spencer who is the current Chairman of the Regional
Security System said that the purpose of the Treaty is to increase
cooperation in mutual legal assistance among Caribbean countries
in respect of serious criminal matters and to combat criminal activity.
He noted that states signatory to the Treaty will afford each
other the widest measures of mutual legal assistance under their
laws at any stage of investigations, prosecutions and judicial
proceedings in relation to serious crimes.
Under the Treaty countries will be allowed to provide assistance
in identifying and locating persons and objects; taking evidence
or statements from persons; obtaining the production of judicial
or other documents and examining objects, sites and premises.
In addition, the mutual legal assistance includes affecting a
temporary transfer of persons in custody to appear as witnesses;
executing searches and seizures; tracing, seizing, freezing and
confiscating the proceeds or instrumentalities of crime and facilitating
the personal appearances of witnesses.
Requests from state parties for assistance will be made through
a designated central authority that will have the responsibility
and power to execute requests for legal assistance or to transmit
them to the competent authorities for execution. The costs for
legal assistance will be borne by the requesting state.
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Antigua and Barbuda to participate in study of effects of oil prices on the economy
Antigua and Barbuda will participate in a regional comprehensive
study of the implications of rising oil prices on the economy. This was one of the decisions of the 52 nd Meeting of the Monetary
Council of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank in St. Lucia , which
was attended by Finance and Economy Minister, Dr. Errol Cort MP
as member of the Council.
Minister Cort noted that ECCB Council members agreed that the
fiscal shocks resulting from the escalating price of oil would
result in the need for some governments to allow the price of gas
to increase.
The UPP Administration, since taking office in March 2004 has
been subsidizing the price of fuel at the pumps, losing on average
$400, 000 monthly in revenue. In June, the government subsidized
the price of gasoline at a cost of $1.2 million dollars, the highest
for the year, preventing increases for consumers at the pumps.
The Minister anticipates that the Government will not be in a position
to continue doing so at the present levels.
Dr. Cort also outlined that the Monetary Council Meeting also
agreed to maintain the regulated minimum rate of interest on savings
deposits at 3.0 percent; but agreed that this too will be reviewed
at the Council's meeting on 20 and 21 October along with a review
of interest rates on loans.
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Ministry of Finance and Economy discusses Sales Tax with NESC
 |
Minister of
Finance and the Economy,
Dr Errol Cort |
On Wednesday 20th July, the Ministry of Finance and the Economy
convened a discussion forum with members of the National Economic
and Social Council (NESC) to consider issues relating to the introduction
of an Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST).
The Minister of Finance and the Economy, Dr. Errol Cort MP, indicated
that the ABST, which is a VAT-type tax on consumption, is one element
in a wider process of tax reform which is aimed at revamping the
tax system in order to promote greater efficiency in tax administration.
The Minister re-emphasized that while the tax reform process is
a critical factor in facilitating the correction of the existing
fiscal imbalance; the Government recognizes the critical need to
address expenditure and is fully committed to the implementation
of a comprehensive public sector transformation programme.
This discussion forum with the NESC served to initiate the process
of dialogue with the private sector and civil society with a view
to eliciting their ideas on the administrative and functional considerations
for the ABST. Speaking on behalf of the NESC representatives, Dr.
Vincent Richards welcomed the opportunity to commence dialogue
on the proposed ABST and stressed the importance of a consultative
process in ensuring the successful introduction of such a measure.
In their presentation to the NESC representatives, the Ministry
of Finance and Economy consultants provided a brief overview of
the ABST, focusing on the rationale for the introduction of such
a tax, how the ABST would work, who would be affected, and the
administrative machinery that would execute the tax. During the
discussions, the participants stressed the importance of ensuring
that this ABST did not create a greater burden for taxpayers. The
need to ensure that all the relevant businesses were captured within
the tax net was also emphasized. The Minister stressed that the
ABST is not intended as an addition to the already existing taxes
on consumption. In particular, it was indicated that the ABST would
in fact replace the Consumption Tax along with a number of other
taxes that are currently levied on goods and services.
The meeting was also advised that the Ministry's technical team,
led by Mr. Everton Gonsalves, in conjunction with a number of regionally
and internationally funded consultants was finalizing a White Paper
which would present in detail the specific issues relating to the
ABST. This White Paper is expected to be published within the next
few weeks and is intended to stimulate public discussion. Following
the publication of the White Paper, the Ministry will undertake
a series of public consultations and will also launch a number
of public information programmes on the ABST.
Dr. Richards, in his closing remarks, thanked the Minister and
his team for affording the NESC the opportunity to contribute to
the process of formulating the foundations for the ABST. He further
indicated that once the White Paper was published the NESC would “undertake
an in-depth review of the document and would present its comments
and positions in respect of the issues contained therein to the
Ministry.” Dr Richards also emphasized the need for stimulating
public discourse on the ABST and affirmed the willingness of the
NESC to contribute to the process of consultation and promoting
public awareness.
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Minister
Quinn-Leandro attends Labour Ministers’ Meeting in Mexico
City
 |
Dr
Quinn-Leandro addressing a conference on women at the
United Nationals earlier this year |
Minister of Labour, and Public Administration & Empowerment,
Dr. Jacqui Quinn Leandro MP, joined her Caribbean and Latin American
counterparts in Mexico City , Mexico where they participated in
the "Hemispheric Workshop on Decent Work and Fair Globalization."
The meeting brought together governments, employers and workers to analyze
the need of promoting Decent Work as a key element in development policies,
in the context of globalization, by all countries in the American hemisphere.
It also sought to agree on the draft text of the Declaration and Plan of Action
of the XIV Inter-American Conference of Ministers of Labour (IACML).
Minister Quinn-Leandro presented a paper on “Work and Social Development” on
the first day of the meeting. She was part of 5-member panel, which
included Ministers of Labour from Brazil , Uruguay , Grenada and
Colombia .
The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Organization of American
States (OAS) sponsored the July 11-14 meetings.
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Prime Minister and R. Allen Stanford sign agreement formalizing EC$25 Million donation for Secondary School of Excellence
 |
| Prime Minister
Baldwin Spencer and R. Allen Stanford signing the Agreement |
On 8th July, Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and R. Allen Stanford,
Chairman of the Stanford Financial Group, signed an agreement finalizing
the Stanford Companies' donation of EC$25 million to finance a
Secondary School of Excellence that will provide first-rate education
for Antigua and Barbuda 's brightest youths.
Upon completion by December 2006, the school will offer a wide
range of educational and career opportunities to a maximum of 2500
fourth and fifth form students, and represent a vital step in fulfilling
the Government's programme of Education and Empowerment.
During the 2005 Budget Presentation, Finance Minister Dr . Errol
Cort announced that as part of the Government/Stanford Alliance,
the investor will construct the facility as part of his contribution
to the fundamental of development through education and empowerment.
Mr. Stanford will also fund an ongoing endowment to provide full
scholarships to young Antiguans and Barbudans.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Education will design the
school curriculum and overall project goals, provide the land,
engineering and architectural design and oversee construction and
operation of the school. In addition to the funding, Stanford Development
Company Ltd. will provide in-kind architectural, design and other
support for the project.
Veteran civil and structural engineer Dr. Lucien Hanley will serve
as the Government's Project Manager, overseeing the construction
and establishment of the school. Former Chief Education Officer
Dr. Austin Josiah has been appointed Project Director on behalf
of the Stanford Companies to direct their efforts and involvement
in the project.
In signing the agreement, Prime Minister Spencer said, “A great
nation must have great students – and the graduates of this school
will be at the heart of Antigua and Barbuda 's future greatness.
Through the Secondary School of Excellence , the brilliance and
capabilities of our young, sharp Antiguan and Barbudan minds will
shine in unprecedented ways and provide the leadership and skills
we need to take our place as one of the Caribbean 's leading centres
of tourism, finance and commerce.”
“The Stanford Companies have always believed in the enormous potential
of Antigua and Barbuda – and there is no greater way to fulfill
that potential than to develop the minds of its youth to the greatest
extent possible,” Mr. Stanford said.
He continued, “We are proud to help establish the Secondary School
as a long-term investment and a cornerstone of Antigua and Barbuda
's future. This school is designed to provide the critical expertise
and skills this nation needs to enter a dynamic era of economic
growth and prosperity.”
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Evaluation stage of Sewerage Treatment Facility completed
A team of engineers from BiWater USA Inc. has completed the first
phase of a feasibility study of St John's for the establishment
of a sewerage treatment facility.
During the technical evaluation, the BiWater team held meetings
with the Environmental Division, APUA, the Town and Country Planner,
the Central Board of Health and technicians in the Ministry of
Public Works.
The study was carried out with the aim of reversing the sanitation
problem facing the commercial downtown area of St. John's from
Independence Avenue to the waterfront in time for a September 2007
deadline. It will also be designed to provide another revenue stream
to bolster the nation's economy and tourism product.
The proposed sewerage facility will include a collector system
and pumping network around St. John's and a treatment plant with
the capacity for expansion and integration to bring other phases
on line designed to accommodate raw sewage if required.
The facility is expected to incorporate infrastructure that is
tailored to St. John's by utilizing the septic tanks and treatment
plants already in use and provides instant solutions for the commercial
sector with maximum benefit for the tourist industry.
Minister of Public Works and the Environment, Deputy Prime Minister,
Wilmoth Daniel MP under whose Ministry the project falls, outlined
that it is part of the government's manifesto promise to transform
the city of St. John and create a healthy environment for residents
and visitors.
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CABINET STATEMENT
Cabinet suspends discretionary duty free
concessions
The economic ruin left by the previous administration, including
the grossly inflated public sector payroll, continues to impose
severe constraints on the government's capacity to meet current
financial obligations.
Within this framework, the Ministry of Finance and Economy has
formulated a number of measures to contain government spending
and to optimize revenue.
In this context, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda today during
its weekly sitting agreed to a six-month suspension of discretionary
duty free concessions.
Cabinet also agreed that concessions that are involved in the
investment sectors of tourism, manufacturing and agriculture would
be granted. This is designed to continue attracting local and foreign
investment. These concessions will be granted after full negotiations
with the relevant entities.
Cabinet further noted that waivers that apply to statutory obligations
and persons employed by the government will continue to be examined
on a case by case basis by a cabinet standing committee.
The decision of the Cabinet will come up for review on the expiration
of the six-month suspension.
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Police receives mobile phones donation to aid in fighting crime
 |
| Darren Derrick
of Cingular Wireless making the presentation to Deputy
Commissioner of Police, Albert Simon |
On the 25th July the police received 35 mobile phones on loan
from Cingular Wireless to aid in their crime fighting efforts during
the Carnival season.
CEO of Cingular Wireless Darren Derrick made the presentation
of the phones to Deputy Commissioner of Police Albert Smith and
Inspector Lenny Quashie.
Prime Minister Spencer, who is responsible for national security
said that the donation of the phones is very timely as communication
is vital in combating crime. He commended Minister responsible
for Communications Dr. Edmond Mansoor for facilitating the donation.
“The Minister, through his efforts has brought together the private
sector and government in collaborating on a very important aspect
of crime and security in our nation. I must also express the government's
appreciation to Cingular Wireless for readily accepting to assist
in this area,” Prime Minister Spencer stated.
The Minister responsible for Information, Broadcasting and Telecommunications,
Dr. Edmond Mansoor said that the government is committed to ensuring
that the Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force is equipped with
the necessary communication tools.
“This gesture on the part of Cingular Wireless is extremely useful
and is indicative of the type of synergy that is required between
Government and the Private Sector for nation building,” he said.
In addition, Dr. Mansoor said that plans are progressing smoothly
for the full computerization of all police and fire stations.
In addition, “The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has begun
the preliminary stages of the planning for a major overhaul of
the communications system for the security forces. This new project
will provide specialised communication equipment to police and
fire stations and to police cars and fire tenders,” Minister Mansoor
outlined.
Policemen on patrol will also be equipped with hand-held mobile
units. It is anticipated that this new system will also fully incorporate
the modern communication requirements of the Emergency Medical
Service and the National office of Disaster Services.
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Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to benefit from Chilean Scholarships
 |
| The visiting
Chilean delegation with Prime Minister Spencer and members
of the Security Team |
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda recently hosted a high level
delegation from the Chilean Police Force. The delegation headed
by General Jorge Contreras Mella was in Antigua from July 21st
to 24th .
The express objective of the visit was to introduce the
International Cooperation Programme for Foreign Uniformed Police
Agencies. This programme, which was launched in 1990, offers scholarship
opportunities to both commissioned and non-commissioned officers.
In addition to finance and administrative courses, other programmes
offered include courses in drugs and narcotics, traffic accident
investigations, police instructor and protection of personalities
(VIPs). Courses range in duration from three weeks to three years.
The deadline for the submission of applications is December 30
th , 2005 , and all courses commence in March 2006.
While in Antigua the Chilean delegation met Prime Minister Baldwin
Spencer, Ambassador Joan H. Underwood, members of the police high
command including Acting Police Commissioner Delano Christopher,
Deputy Commissioner Whyte, Commander of the Antigua and Barbuda
Defence Force Colonel Trevor Thomas and Mr. Alec Vanderpoole, National
Security Advisor and Director of the Office of National Drug and
Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP).
This initiative was the latest development in the move to strengthen
ties between Antigua and Barbuda and Latin America . Sergeant Atlee
Rodney is currently in Mexico pursuing a bachelor's degree in communications.
In addition to improving the technical capacity of the police force,
these Latin American scholarships will also serve to produce a
cadre of bilingual police officers who are strategically positioned
to serve the growing Hispanic population in Antigua and Barbuda
.
In expressing Antigua and Barbuda's appreciation to the Chileans
for the generous offer, Prime Minister Spencer pointed out that
these scholarship will assist the government greatly in implementing
a comprehensive succession plan designed to ensure an optimal level
of efficiency as the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda
gears up to meet the challenges associated with increased mobility
of natural persons including criminals and advances in technology
.
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New Cuban Initiative for Specialist Eye-care in Antigua and Barbuda
 |
| PM Spencer with
Dr Sucel, Ambassadors Portela, Murdoch and Goodwin and
Dr Matinez |
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer recently received a Cuban Special
Envoy sent by Cuban President Fidel Castro to discuss the deepening
of cooperation in the field of health between Antigua and Barbuda
and Cuba .
Dr. Pura Sucel, a Special Advisor to President Castro on health
matters, met Prime Minister Spencer for several hours and discussed
new initiatives in health care for Antigua and Barbuda .
Present at the meeting were Cuban Ambassador Jose Portela; Permanent
Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Colin Murdoch;
Ambassador to Cuba , Bruce Goodwin; and local coordinator of the
resident Cuban Medical Team Dr. Geovando Martinez.
Prime Minister Spencer announced that he was delighted with the
Cuban proposals and that his government would move swiftly to implement
the initiative.
Under the initiative, Cuba would establish a diagnostic centre
in Antigua and Barbuda fully staffed by Cuban medical personnel
in order to provide referral specialist eye-care treatment to Antigua
and Barbuda nationals.
The programme would diagnose persons suffering from various diseases
of the eye and send them for specialist treatment in Cuba , including
laser surgery. The diagnoses referral and treatment would be at
no cost to the patients or the government. It is anticipated that
patients referred to Cuba would be required to remain for one to
two weeks in a medical facility in Cuba .
“I am excited by this initiative and I have asked Minister John
Maginley to hold follow-up discussions with the Cuban team to see
how best and how quickly we can agree on how to establish this
programme,” noted Prime Minister Spencer.
PM Spencer also pointed out that the programme would be a tremendous
boost for health-care delivery in Antigua and Barbuda and adds
a new dimension to the services available to the public. The fact
that these services will be available free of cost also allows
the public the widest possible access to the programme.
The Prime Minister also expressed government's appreciation for
this cooperation programme in health to Dr. Sucel, who indicated
that she was very satisfied with her mission to Antigua and Barbuda
.
BACK TO TOP
Education Officials attend Commonwealth Meeting in The Bahamas
Antigua and Barbuda was represented by Acting Chief of Education,
M. Lenore Henry and Executive Secretary to the Minister of Education,
Mrs. Anne Jonas at the Mid-Term Review of the 15 th Conference
of Commonwealth Education Ministers (15CCEM) in Nassau Bahamas
.
Among the topics discussed were:
- Improving Quality Education
- Mitigating the Impact of HIV/AIDS
in Education
- Using Distance Learning to Overcome Barriers
- Supporting Education
in Difficult Circumstances
- Eliminating Gender Disparities in
Education
- Expanding Access to Universal Primary Education
The meeting concluded on July 30, 2005
BACK TO TOP
CALYPSO TENT EXCELS
It's virtually impossible to conceive of a UK calypso event more
authentic than the one the Yaa Asantewaa produces each year.
Since the ABC (Association of British Calypsonians) created the
London Calypso tent thirteen years ago, the shows have never been
more sought after. It has developed into the eagerly anticipated
pre-cursor to the Notting Hill Carnival show, attracting around
300 people per night and serves as a flagship to Caribbean culture
and sound.
The show promises to not only excite but also inspire since its
format is exactly as one would expect from a calypso tent in the
Caribbean . With the sultry, message based lyrics of social commentary
to the faced paced rhythm of soca songs everyone is guaranteed
a memorable time.
Whilst savouring traditional West Indian food and drink, viewers
can expect to see artistes representing most of the Caribbean islands
including Barbados, St Vincent and Jamaica to name a few. Everyone
will even be treated to the likes of Explainer, a renowned calypsonian
hailing from Trinidad whose music has been entertaining for over
30 decades. Parents need not worry about restless children as the
Junior Calypso monarch from Trinidad also appears. Her talent is
undeniable as at the tender age of eight she has already won several
awards such as the Best Primary School performer and TUCO Junior
Calypso Monarch.
The Tent takes place for six weeks during the months of July and
August and is held at the Yaa Asantewaa Arts & Community Centre,
1 Chippenham Mews, Chippenham Road , London W9.2AN.
Remaining Dates: 12 th August, 19 th August, 5 th August, 26 th
August.
For more info and a chance to win tickets visit www.londoncalypsotent.co.uk
.
This is a must see event. To avoid disappointment tickets should
be booked early.
BACK TO TOP
Antiguans off to Cuba for specialist eye-care
On the 29th July the first group of persons to benefit from the
Cuban/Antiguan and Barbuda Specialist Eye-care initiative left
Antigua for Cuba where they will undergo corrective surgery and
treatment free of cost.
A team of Cuban optometrists conducted eye examinations on over
three hundred persons, testing for Strabismus, Cataracts, Ptosis
and Terigium.
Special Advisor to President Fidel Castro of Cuba on Health Matters,
Dr. Pura Sucel who accompanied the patients to Cuba , said that
the Cuban government is offering the Humanitarian aid to Antigua
and Barbuda and other countries in the region. She outlined that
upon their return, another group will travel to Cuba for similar
treatment and this will continue for a number of months.
Antigua and Barbuda 's Ambassador designate to Cuba Bruce Goodwin
said that the majority of persons who are benefiting from the Cuban
initiative are those who cannot ordinarily afford the cost associated
with specialist eye care.
He said the government of Antigua and Barbuda deeply appreciates
the assistance in health care being provided by the Cuban government.
The medical treatment and airfare of the patients are provided
by the Cuban Government at no expense to the patients or the government
of Antigua and Barbuda . BACK TO TOP
Regional Group endorses Antigua and Barbuda for re-election to the Governing Council of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
In a meeting of the member States of the Group of Latin American
and Caribbean States (GRULAC), held in New York on the 18th July,
Antigua and Barbuda was unanimously endorsed for re-election for
another four (4) year term on the Nairobi-based Governing Council
of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
UNEP is the designated authority of the United Nations system
in environmental issues at the global and regional level. Its mandate
is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus
by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging
issues to the attention of governments and the international community
for action
“I would like to thank the GRULAC Group for its unanimous endorsement
of our candidature, and wish to acknowledge the considerable work
done by UN Ambassador, Dr. John W. Ashe, ” said Deputy Prime Minister
and Minister of Public Works, Transportation and Environment, Wilmoth
Daniel.
“I believe that this action by our Latin American and Caribbean
brethren serves to underscore that we are indeed capable of championing
the concerns of the region in the area of the environment, while
highlighting the widely held view that we are at the forefront
of the global effort to protect our environment for future generations,” the
Minister added.
Chief Environment Officer, Mrs Dianne Black-Layne noted that UNEP
is one of the main UN entities with which her Division is currently
partnered on a number of initiatives therefore it is important
for them to maintain representation on its decision-making body,
in order to ensure that the country's unique concerns are given
full consideration.
The Governing Council reports to the General Assembly through
the Economic and Social Council. It has 58 members who are elected
by the General Assembly, for four-year terms. The Council and its
counterpart body, the Global Ministerial Environment Forum, is
convened annually to review important and emerging policy issues
in the field of the environment, with the Governing Council constituting
the forum either in its regular sessions or special sessions. The
Governing Council is charged with promoting international cooperation
in the field of the environment; provide general policy guidance
for the direction and coordination of environmental programmes
within the United Nations system; and keep under review the world
environmental situation in order to ensure that emerging environmental
problems of wide international significance receive appropriate
and adequate consideration by Governments.
The GRULAC endorsement of Antigua and Barbuda now goes to the
General Assembly of the United Nations, where elections will be
held during the upcoming (60 th ) session that begins of September
17.
The next (23 rd ) meeting of the Council will be held in February
2006 when Minister Willmoth Daniel is expected to lead the Antigua
and Barbuda delegation.
BACK TO TOP
Minister of Justice
delivers feature address at Graduating ceremony
 |
| Minister of
Justice, Senator Colin Derrick |
Minister of Justice, Senator Colin Derrick, delivered the Feature
Address at a Graduating Ceremony at Camp Blizzard on Thursday July
7th, at which ten students from the Coast Guards and Marine Police
Units of the Regional Security System (RSS) and Overseas British
Territories successfully completed the Phase Two Operations Course.
The participants represented Antigua and Barbuda , Barbados ,
Grenada , St.Kitts-Nevis , St. Lucia , St. Vincent and the Grenadines
, Turks and Caicos Islands .
The intensive 5 week training programme included - RSS, Maritime
Law Enforcement Communications, Search and Rescue, Navigation,
Rules of the Road, Theoretical and Practical Boat handling (40
ft and 920 RHB), Anti-Narcotic Operations, Planning/Extension
and Physical Training.
Minister Derrick presented the top student award to Dexter Roberts
of the Turks and Caicos Islands who scored an average of 92.1%
In his Address, Minister Derrick stressed that “the importance
of training would be brought to bear on the ultimate reduction
of the threats to the national security of our countries.”
(For the full text of the Minister's Feature Address,
please visit our website at www.antigua-barbuda.com, under Latest
News) BACK TO TOP
PM Spencer honoured by PMS Students Association
On 23rd July Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer was among a number
of prominent past students of the Princess Margaret School (PMS)
who were honoured at a 50 th Anniversary Reunion Banquet at the
Grand Royal Antigua Resort.
Prime Minister Spencer, who is among a line of politicians educated
at the secondary school, said that the Princess Margaret School
experience helped to shape his future and he owes the institution
an eternal debt of gratitude.
“Any person who walked the halls of the Princess Margaret School
, have had their lives touched in a significant way. I am humbled
by this award and regard it as a reflection of what PMS has been
to persons,” he said.
The country's leader outlined that the influence of the institution
is legendary and he is proud to be a product of the school, which
was the country's first experiment with free secondary education.
Among the past students honoured were former West Indies fast
bowler Andy Roberts, former government minister Molwyn Joseph,
President of the Senate Hazlyn Mason Francis, former clerk of parliament
Sylvia Walker and accountant Everett Lake .
Some of the past teachers from the institution were also honoured.
They included Dr. Albert Aymer, Otway Davis, Dr. Billy Dyer, Mrs.
Rosetta Etinoff, Natalie Hurst and Ilma James.
Also honoured were Mrs. Agnes Jeffrey, Mrs. Olive Josiah and George
Pigott, while former government minister Reuben Harris was honoured
posthumouslyThe highlight of the evening was the honouring of three
of the former principals with a call going out to the government
to change the name of the school to the Christopher O'Mard Memorial
High School. Christopher O'Marde who was also a former member of
parliament was the first principal of the school.
The 50 th Anniversary Reunion Banquet also featured performances
from Ambassador Rupert Blaize and the Laviscount Brass. BACK TO TOP
Training for Cruise Industry Entrepreneurs provided by the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association
The Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Antigua and
Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association will be hosting two workshops
conducted by the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) targeting
taxi drivers, tour operators, providers of ground transportation,
vendors, and all persons interacting with cruise passengers on
a regular basis.
The first workshop “Caribbean Taxi Pride” took take place on August
9 at the Multipurpose Centre. It focussed on three main areas:
courtesy and professionalism, marketing, rules and safety, particularly
as it relates to cruise passengers with a special focus on ways
to increase cruise passenger spending on transportation while in
port.
The training also provided an insight into cruise passengers'
spending, improving the destination's marketability and learning
what other destinations have done to increase business.
The second workshop entitled “Service Excellence” took place on
August 10 and provided information on the importance that excellent
customer service makes to the destination and what the cruise industry's
economic impact is. Facilitator of the workshops was Adam Ceserano,
Manager, Marketing and Sales for the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association.
Director of Product Development at the Ministry of Tourism, Lorraine
Headley, described the training as critical in improving customer
service levels in the cruise industry.
She said, “We thought it was important for us to benefit from
the resources being provided by the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association
which has spent over US$100,000 developing these customer service
seminars and delivering them throughout the Caribbean . By partnering
with the Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association, we intend
to take advantage of every opportunity and ensure that our cruise
product stands out among other Caribbean countries.”
Assistance was provided by American Airlines, Heritage Hotel,
and the St. John's Development Corporation in hosting the workshops
free of charge to participants.
BACK TO TOP
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