ISSUE NO.80 August 2003
Stanford’s Financial Centre at Coolidge
 |
Prime Minister
Lester Bird speaks with some of the residents of Barbuda
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Prime
Minister visits Barbuda and interacts with residents in an open forum
On the 15th August, residents on Barbuda gathered at the old Cotton
Ginnery building, in an
open forum with Prime Minister Lester Bird.
Mr. Bird was on a 24-hour visit to Barbuda where he met with members of the
Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Branch and the Barbuda Peoples Movement For
Change (BPMC). He also toured several sites on the island.
In his address, Prime Minister Bird said he had come to talk
with the people of Barbuda on improving the relationship between
the two islands. He said that he had to work on integrating Antigua
and Barbuda fully before integrating CARICOM. This statement brought
applause from the large gathering.
Two of the main topics discussed were the island's water supply and transportation.
The Prime Minister assured Barbudans that they will very shortly be enjoying
a sound and secure supply of water when the new Reverse Osmosis Plant goes
into operation in just under two months.
In relation to air transport, Mr.Bird said every effort will be made between
the Government and the Barbuda Council to bring about a speedy resolution to
the transportation problem. He stressed the importance of having the airport
in Codrington completed, adding that there is a view that the airport should
be relocated thus allowing the Dash-8 type aircraft to land there.
Other matters such as the problem surrounding the swearing in
of the new Council, education, housing, the land issue, the postal
service and sports were also discussed.
Mr. Bird described the forum as enlightening, indicating that he was pleased
with the warmth and strong cooperative spirit that was present throughout the
meeting. “Antigua and Barbuda is getting ready to take off on a new road of
cooperation,” he said.
Noting that both islands combined have more land mass than Barbados,
he said, “we have more usable land than Dominica and if we can
work together as one, this country will grow from strength to strength.”
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Sir Ronald Sanders
KCMG KCN, Chief Foreign affairs Representative
with Ministerial Rank and High Commissioner
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Antigua and Barbuda
and United States fail to reach Agreement at WTO: Director-General
asked to form an Arbitration Panel
Antigua and Barbuda has lost significant revenue from the decision
by the United States not to provide market access and national
treatment to the cross-border supply of foreign services under
the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).
Antigua and Barbuda has lodged a complaint with the World Trade
Organisation (WTO) that is establishing a panel dispute to hear
its complaint against Washington.
Addressing a luncheon of the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce
and Industry on 26th August, the island's High Commissioner to
London, Sir Ronald Sanders, said that revenue totalling millions
of dollars, had been lost as a result of the position adopted by
the United States. He said up until 1999, Antigua and Barbuda was
arguably the largest gaming jurisdiction in the world, with the
sector employing over 3,000 people and contributing between eight
and 10 per cent of the island's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He said in 2000, EC$35 million (US$12.9 million) was paid in
wages and salaries alone. "However, since the US imposed laws
and other measures designed to block the delivery of Internet gaming
services into the US from abroad, the industry here has been hit
hard," he said, noting that employment within the sector had
fallen to below 500. "From a high of one hundred and twelve
licensed companies, only thirty-one licensed companies now operate
here, a reduction of seventy-two per cent," Sir Ronald told
the private sector members.
He said in relation to licence fees, these have fallen to EC$5
million (US$1.8 million) from a high of EC$20 million (US$7.4 million)
in 1999. "From these figures, you will recognise that had
the industry continued, year-on-year, to deliver the same level
of licence fees as the year 1999, the government would have earned
EC$90 million (US$33.3 million) for the four and half years ending
June 30, 2003."
Sir Ronald said he was making no mention of the loss to businesses
and private persons from whom the Internet Gaming companies purchased
goods and services and rented homes and office space. "In
the context of the size of Antigua and Barbuda's economy and population,
the loss of jobs, the reduction in government revenue, and the
money lost to the rest of the economy are very significant," he
added.
Sir Ronald said the Internet Gaming industry provided the State
with revenues that were critical for the continued provision of
the basic goods and services that inhabitants of any country have
a right to expect. "Importantly, these revenues are not affected
by the ravages of the tempestuous hurricanes that make unwelcome
visits to our shores from time to time. They are, therefore, important
to our economic and social survival," he said as he laid out
the island's case for taking Washington before the WTO.
Sir Ronald said that Washington was duty bound to maintain its
obligation under the treaties signed to create a system of international
trade rules for services, and to ensure fair and equitable treatment
for all Members. "Each Member then has specific commitments
to provide market access and national treatment to other members
in individual service sectors. These commitments vary from country
to country. They were agreed upon during the Uruguay Round of trade
negotiations and are written down in the individual service schedules
of each country. These schedules bind Members to these commitments," he
said.
"Therefore, by prohibiting the delivery of Internet gaming
from Antigua and Barbuda to residents of the United States, the
US is violating its own binding commitments to the detriment of
Antigua and Barbuda," he added.
Sir Ronald said no government "could simply let this matter
pass, not even if it meant exposing itself to the displeasure of
the most powerful country in the world".
The Antigua and Barbuda government has a duty of care to its
population to defend their rights and the rights of the State under
international law. And, this is why we have challenged the US in
the WTO."
"We have done so fearlessly, and in the full knowledge that
the US is itself the most active user of the dispute settlement
machinery of the WTO. What is sauce for the goose is also sauce
for the gander," he told the Chamber members.
He said if the United States was defeated within the WTO, the "remedy" provided
for by the WTO law is "compliance", thereby insisting
that Washington honour its commitment under the GATS.
"The United States may be given a "reasonable period
of time" to comply. But, in the meantime, it would have to
curtail the measures it now applies to the detriment of Internet
gaming from Antigua and Barbuda," he said.
"The point is that there would be immediate relief to the
Internet Gaming business and to our economy, with a longer term
permanent solution which would allow cross-border supply of gaming
and betting services from Antigua and Barbuda into the US."
"We would also see not only stable conditions for the companies
that are here now, but an increase in the number of companies that
want to operate in a jurisdiction that has a secure, predictable
and legal basis for delivering gaming and betting services into
the United States," he added. But he also provided a scenario
should Antigua and Barbuda lose its complaint within the WTO. "The
situation will be no worse than it now is. Internet gaming companies
here would simply continue to serve the markets that they do now," he
said applauding the "creative and innovative" manner
in which the companies had been "diversifying their markets
to sustain their businesses".
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WTO
Director-General appoints a Panel to hear dispute between Antigua
and Barbuda and the United States
The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation Dr Supachai
Panitchpakdi, has responded to a request by Antigua and Barbuda
to appoint a Panel to adjudicate a complaint brought by the small
Caribbean State against the United States of America.
On 25th August, the Director- General appointed a three man panel with Mr B
K Zuthshi of India as Chairman. The other two panellists are Mr Virachai Plasai
of Thailand and Mr Richard Plender QC of the United Kingdom.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Chief Foreign Affairs Representative Sir
Ronald Sanders, asked the Director-General to appoint the Panel
after talks with the US failed to agree on its composition.
Commenting on the Panel appointed by the Director-General, Sir
Ronald said, “These are three distinguished men with wide experience
of the WTO, its binding agreements and its rules. I have no doubt
that they will give both parties to the dispute a fair hearing”.
The Dispute Settlement Body of the WTO authorised the establishment
of a Panel to hear Antigua and Barbuda’s complaint on 21st July
after the country’ presented its case.
Antigua and Barbuda contends that a US ban on the cross-border
supply of gaming and betting services from Antigua and Barbuda
to the US violates US commitments under the General Agreement of
Trade in Services which seeks to create equal conditions of competition
for domestic and foreign service suppliers.
Sir Ronald said, “Early next week we will discuss with the Panellists
and the United States the organisation and schedule of the Panel’s
work. Antigua and Barbuda would like the Panel hearing to proceed
expeditiously because every day that passes causes our small economy
to lose money and threatens employment in our country even further”.
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Prime Minister
Lester Bird and Ambassador Ryo Takagi
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Japanese Ambassador pays farewell visit
Japanese Ambassador to Antigua and Barbuda, Ryo Takagi, paid
his final visit to Antigua as the accredited representative of
the Government of Japan.
Ambassador Takagi, said farewell to the Governor-General, the Prime Minister
and other senior Government officials.
During his visit to Governor-General, Sir James Carlisle, the Japanese diplomat
explained that his objective as Ambassador had been to strengthen bilateral
relations between Antigua and Barbuda and Japan, and that his successor would
continue this mandate.
Mr Bird conveyed the appreciation of the Government and people for the contribution
made to the development of the economy of Antigua and Barbuda. The fisheries
complexes at Parham and Urlings have been built with grant-aid funding from
the Government of Japan.
Ambassador Takagi explained that he would be proceeding on retirement and that
his successor, Shigenobu Kato, will be arriving in the region to take up his
post as Ambassador early in September.
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Electoral
Commission meets with ALP and UPP
The Electoral Commission has met with representatives of Antigua's
two major political parties, the Antigua Labour Party (ALP) and
the United Progressive Party (UPP).
The discussions centred around the submission of claims and objections
to the registration officers, which the Commission is requesting
be as early as possible during the period 18 - 31 Aug.
The ALP delegation comprised Ministers Vere C. Bird Jr., Molwyn
Joseph, Sen. Llewellyn Smith and Lionel "Max" Hurst.
Representing the UPP was Opposition leader, Baldwin Spencer,
UPP officials, Dean Jones and Wilmoth Daniel. The Commission asked
that the claims and objections process be expedited allowing for
the presentation of a final "clean" list by 30 Sept.
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Senator Asot Michael commends
local athlete
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Senator Asot
Michael with Triple-jump Champion Ayatta Joseph
|
Senator Asot Michael, the ALP Candidate for the Constituency of
St. Peter has commended Antigua and Barbuda’s Triple-jump Champion
Ayatta Joseph for his recent accomplishments in athletics.
Ayatta Joseph, who is a resident of the constituency, won a silver medal in
the Pan America Junior Track and Field Championships held recently in Barbados.
He leaped 16.29 to top his previous mark of 15.97 when he captured bronze in
the CAC Games in Grenada a month ago.
Senator Michael who is an avid supporter of young athletes, urged Ayatta not
only to aim for the top in his sport, but to ensure that he receives a solid
education which will earn him many benefits in the future. “In today’s world
of athletics, not only must you be physically fit to succeed but you must have
the mental capacity to maintain discipline and getting a good education is
the first step in guaranteeing that you remain at the top,” he said.
Senator Asot Michael pledged to assist in the best way possible
in the development of Ayatta Joseph and any other young athletes
in the constituency.
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EARLY
ELECTIONS -Prime Minister says date before March 2004
Elections in Antigua and Barbuda will be called before March next
year.
Prime Minister Lester Bird made this statement in an exclusive
interview with the Antigua SUN on Tuesday 19th August.
The Prime Minister did not disclose the exact date when the electorate
would go to the polls. He predicted his party, the ruling Antigua
Labour Party, would be returned to power.
When asked whether general elections would be held before the
end of the year as he had previously announced Bird replied, "It
will be held long before the date in March."
Antiguans and Barbudans last went to the polls on 9 March 1999.
Mr Bird also commended the staff at the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral
Office for a job well done. He said 42,000 or more people registered
in that space of time (1-31 July) was an excellent performance.
"I think that the actual list is clean. There might be a
few glitches in the preliminary voters' list as in the case of
the constituency of St. John's Rural East where two people registered
in two different constituencies.
He brushed aside comments that previous electoral lists had been
padded. He pointed out that the preliminary voters' list had revealed
the true picture of the registered voters. Based on the preliminary
voters list 42,528 people have registered with the largest number
of voters in the constituency of St. John's Rural East with 4,003.
"All this notion about padding of lists and so on; I have
always held the view that with the past lists 20% of the people
on those lists were out of the country and if you go back and extrapolate
you will end up with 40,000 - 42,000 people, and we in the ALP
are very optimistic about the outcome of the elections, because
with the current list we are satisfied that the ALP is going to
win," the Prime Minister said
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Fisheries Complex opens
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Prime Minister
Lester Bird delivering the address
at the official opening of the Fisheries complex
|
At the official opening of the Fisheries Project in Parham on
21st August, Prime Minister Lester Bird said that Antigua and Barbuda
is now in a position to export fish to the region and around the
world.
The new 45 million dollar complex is a joint effort between the governments
of Antigua and Barbuda and Japan and is located in Parham, on Antigua's North-East
Coast.
Japan has assisted Antigua and Barbuda with approximately $75
million in projects over the last eight years.
The complex includes ice-making machines, a slipway, cold-storage facilities
and has the capacity to host conferences and is expected to greatly improve
the country's fishing industry.
Prime Minister Bird also indicated that it is his government's intention to
make Parham a major commercial centre in the nation.
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Antigua
and Barbuda receives technical assistance from the OAS
A three member technical team from the Organisation of American
States (OAS) Trade Unit based in Washington, D.C. completed a two-day
working visit to Antigua and Barbuda early August.
The team comprised Barbara Kotschkor and Pamela Coke-Hamilton from the OAS
Trade Unit and Rafael Benke, a consultant to the OAS Trade Unit in Washington,
D.C.
Since Antigua and Barbuda will be participating in the Free Trade Area of the
Americas (FTAA), the team helped public, private and civil society interests
in Antigua and Barbuda in their requests to obtain technical assistance for
the period 2003-2005 in trade and trade-related areas under the Hemispheric
Cooperation Programme.
The Hemispheric Cooperation Programme aims to provide technical assistance
to small developing countries like Antigua and Barbuda in a wide variety of
trade and trade related areas. Specifically, this technical assistance programme
plans to aid Antigua and Barbuda in the present trade negotiations at the WTO
and FTAA level, prepare Antigua and Barbuda for implementation of trade obligations
and assist with the transition to free trade or liberalisation.
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New
security features for Eastern Caribbean Currency
The Eastern Caribbean Central bank (ECCB) has announced plans
to upgrade the security features of the Eastern Caribbean currency
in a bid to “thwart the efforts of counterfeiters”.
In a statement, the Bank which serves as the Central Bank for
members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS),
said it was taking “steps to enhance the security features of its
family of banknotes.”
The security thread in the new notes will fluoresce under UV
light, and the letters ECCB as well as the value of the note will
be seen in yellow, against a blue background on the front of the
note. When viewed from the back, the thread will appear yellow-green
in colour. A second security thread is also being added.
The notes will have a highly reflective silver filigree foil
on which the value of the note will be evident. The letters ECCB,
as well as the denomination will also be visible in fine print
around the foil, which having been overprinted with intaglio, a
special banknote process, will have a unique ‘raised’ feel.
The Bank said that circulation of the new notes began in St Lucia
late August with the introduction of the five-dollar bill, followed
by the other denominations.
“The Bank anticipates that the upgraded notes will be introduced
in the other ECCB member territories, on a phased basis, starting
in 2004, as and when stocks of the existing notes become depleted,” it
said.
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National Task Force on
crime established
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Minister of Public
Safety, Steadroy ‘Cutie’ Benjamin
|
The Minister responsible for Public Safety, Steadroy Benjamin,
announced that his Ministry has finalised the composition of a
National Task Force on Crime.
Following a meeting with the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Elton
Martin, Head of the Criminal Investigation Department, Superintendent
Albert Smith and Police Prosecutor, ASP Wendell Robinson, it was
decided that the 12 member Task Force will comprise three police
officers, two criminologists, and two representatives each from
the church, civil society, and the Defence Force, a public relations
officer and the Minister of Public Safety, who will chair the Task
Force.
Minister Benjamin said that the Task Force is expected to convene its first
meeting shortly and would be charged with investigating the circumstances surrounding
offences and to identify ways and means of arresting the problem and addressing
the issues which may have caused these criminal developments.
The Task Force, according to Minister Benjamin, will also develop programmes
to get the communities involved in assisting the police in combating the growing
incidence of crime and it is expected that the recommendations of the Task
Force will be implemented and their effects felt throughout the communities
in the state.
In addition, the Public Safety Minister said that he is still in discussion
with the country’s Attorney General, Mrs. Gertel Thom, about implementing measures
to curb crime being committed by youths.
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Tariff
on the importation of used motor vehicles reduced
On 13th August, the Cabinet agreed to review the existing
tariff on the importation of used motor vehicles into the country.
It agreed to an interim measure, pending the receipt of a complete policy document
by a Technical Team comprising members from the Ministry of Tourism and the
Environment and the Ministry of Planning and Trade.
The Interim Measure is as follows:
Motor Vehicles and Tariffs
1. New motor vehicles - $1, 000 per vehicle
2. Used motor vehicles
a. up to 2 years - $3,000 per vehicle
b. exceeding 2 years but not exceeding 4 years - $5, 000 per vehicle
c. exceeding 4 years - $6, 000 per vehicle
The Technical Team has been mandated by Cabinet to review all the issues as
they relate to used vehicles including the environmental impact and revenue
implications. They will also address the high volume of old cars in Antigua
and Barbuda as it relates to emissions and disposal.
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Barbuda injunction
quashed by the Court
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Senator Rueben
James
|
High Court Judge, Justice Ian "Don" Mitchell, has quashed
an injunction, filed by Senator Reuben James, against Barbuda Senator
Lynton Thomas and Member of Parliament for Barbuda, Hilbourne Frank,
questioning their eligibility to sit on the Barbuda Council.
In his ruling Justice Mitchell stated that Senator James acted
precipitately in bringing the action, before Senator Thomas was
appointed to the Council, if indeed he was to be appointed to sit
on the Council. Justice Mitchell then ordered Senator James to
pay costs to the tune of $50,000.
In his submissions Senator James had brought a constitutional
motion against Senator Thomas seeking a number of remedies. The
first was an injunction to restrain Senator Thomas from sitting
as a member of the Barbuda Council, the second was for a declaration
that he is the only person entitled to sit on the Barbuda Council
pursuant to section 4 (1) (b) of the Barbuda Local Government Act,
as he is the only other member of the Senate who possesses the
qualifications specified in section 6 (1) of the Constitution.
The third relief was that he (Senator James) sought a declaration
that the Senator was not qualified to be appointed to or sit in
the Senate by virtue of section 30 (1) (a) of the Constitution.
Senator James alleges that Senator Thomas is a naturalised US citizen,
and as such is disqualified from sitting in the Senate by section
30 (1) (a). The fourth relief he sought was an order restraining
Frank from allowing Senator Thomas to sit and participate in any
meetings of the Barbuda Council.
On the other hand, Senator Thomas’ Attorney, Gerald Watt QC,
in his submission declared that Senator James action is not a justifiable
one.
Senator James said he would be appealing the ruling.
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Legal
aid clinic established
A legal clinic has been established in Antigua and Barbuda for
those who are unable to afford a lawyer.
In making the announcement, Attorney General, Gertel Thom said, “It
has been the government's desire for a number of years to establish
a legal aid clinic to assist those persons in the society who need
legal service but do not have the means to retain counsel.” She
explained that the clinic is already in operation and will, in
some instances, provide free service based on the persons economic
status, or will charge a reduced fee.
"Government is funding the legal aid clinic and paying the
staff - two lawyers and an office manager. We have also received
assistance from the Canadian International Development Agency in
the area of training and the UK Caribbean Jurist Association who
sent two persons here to conduct a workshop," she said.
Attorney Jose Laurent, who is in charge of the legal aid clinic,
heads a steering committee, which includes Attorney Mary White,
Monique Gordon, representing the Bar Association and Patricia Bird
representing Social Services.
The legal aid clinic is temporarily housed in the Ministry of
Justice and Legal Affairs, but will be relocated to the former
High Court building after current renovations are completed.
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Former MBS Superintendent
arrested
On the 7th August, former superintendent of the Medical Benefits
Scheme (MBS), Cavelle John, was arrested at the V.C. Bird International
Airport as she arrived from the United States via Trinidad.
Mrs John is accused by the commissioners investigating charges
of fraud in the scheme, of using her position to advance herself
and her business, Tropical World.
Well-placed sources said John, who came into the country on her
own volition, was first held by immigration authorities before
being taken into custody by police.
Meanwhile, the two senior magistrates in the St. John's Magistrate's
Court have excused themselves from presiding over the preliminary
inquiries into allegations of fraud, theft and other criminal offences
in the Medical Benefits Scheme.
Information received from the court stated that Chief Magistrate
Clare Henry-Wason and Senior Magistrate Maureen Payne-Hyman would
not be handling the cases; instead District B Magistrate Asquith
Riviere will be in charge.
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Gang member shot, in
custody
A police operation led by Deputy Police Commissioner Rolston
Pompey resulted in the capture of Red Shirt Gang member Clifford
Wilson, alias "Steppa," "Son of God," "Mad
Thug," who eluded police for almost a week.
Wilson, who reportedly carries his gang identification #031 tattooed
on his chest is now in police custody after he was found hiding
in a house in the Point area.
Official reports say that Wilson was found in the one-bedroom
building hiding under the bed, and was partially concealed by a
number of bags and other items. Upon being discovered, Wilson allegedly
reached for an item and was shot in the foot by an officer. He
was then taken to the hospital by Emergency Medical Services and
is now being treated for his gunshot wound as well as lacerations
to his body, which he received during a botched robbery attempt
at an ital shack in the Villa area.
He had deep cuts to his forehead, shoulder and back and his right
ear was partially severed. The capture of the 23-year-old Jamaican
came following a tip off to police.
Deputy Commissioner Pompey commended the community for their
co-operation in effecting the fugitive's capture.
“This is the beginning of the dismantling process of these gangs
which have recently surfaced in Antigua," he said.
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One-day Immigration
and fraud seminar held
Canadian immigration department expert, Alex Luhowy was the
special guest at a one-day seminar on fraudulent documentation
and current immigration issues in the region held at the Multi-Purpose
Cultural Centre.
Antigua's Chief Immigration Officer, Clyde Walker who is also
the president of the OECS Chief Immigration Officers, opened the
one-day Seminar.
Walker commented that his officers had arrested travellers passing
through the V.C. Bird International Airport who used Antigua as
a gateway to the US, Canada or the United Kingdom.
"I think all of us are experiencing a lot of fraudulent
passports going through the region. I can speak for Antigua. Almost
every week someone is arrested for producing them (fraudulent passports)
to immigration officers, particularly at V.C. Bird International
to get either to the United Kingdom, Canada or the United States."
Colonel Walker said that with the introduction of the free movement
of CARICOM nationals and the Caribbean Single Market and Economy,
OECS countries are opening up not only to the movement of professionals,
but to the free movement of criminals.
A number of local immigration officers from Antigua and Barbuda's
Immigration Department and from other OECS countries attended the
workshop.
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Antigua
and Barbuda to co-ordinate project on school
Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Education, Culture and Technology
was selected by the Organisation of American States to coordinate
the Caribbean component of a Hemispheric Project entitled “School
Management and Certification for Development and Accreditation
of Labour Competencies at the Upper Secondary Level.”
The project was designed by education officials from countries throughout the
Hemisphere in response to the commitments expressed at the Third Summit of
the Americas, held in Quebec City, in 2001. At the said Summit, the Heads of
State and Government mandated that due consideration should be given to youths,
secondary education and certification of labour competencies as part of an
overall strategy to improve education throughout the Americas.
The project would prepare students for direct access to the upper secondary
level in a sequence that would eventually lead to tertiary education. At the
vocational level, it would prepare students for direct entrance into specific
occupations without further training.
Mr. Austin Josiah, Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, Culture
and Technology, will oversee the coordination and management of the project
for the Caribbean region.
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Antiguans
and Barbudans utilize OAS online services
Students and Professionals in Antigua and Barbuda lead their
counterparts in the OECS countries in the utilization of the OAS
online service, known as the Portal of the Americas.
This online tool consists of a database of over 4, 500 educational distance
learning programmes, scholarships, news and events, and links of interests.
It also offers additional services which include digital libraries, academic
networks, multimedia laboratories and other personalized services.
During the period January to June 2003, Antiguans and Barbudans made 49,168
visits to the Portal. The months of February and June recorded the highest
number of visits, with 12,544 and 11, 088 hits respectively.
Antiguans and Barbudans have in a very short time become highly computer literate
and internet savvy – a development which is due to the deliberate policies
of the government of Antigua and Barbuda to promote and to facilitate the use
of technology as integral to improving the lives of all its citizens.
The Portal of the Americas, www.educoas.org is an initiative of the IACD/OAS
implemented with a grant from the Cooperation Fund of the United States in
response to the Third Summit of the Americas.
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Training
for school service providers
The Ministry of Education held a series training workshops
recently in an effort to upgrade the skills of the school bus drivers,
conductors and school crossing guards.
Chief Education Officer, Austin Josiah said the workshop was part of the ministry's
drive to provide the best education services to the nation's children as well
as provide certification to the participants in accordance with international
standards including training in first aid.
The Chief Education Officer said, however, that maintaining this record would
require "quality interaction" between the students and school bus
drivers along with the parents and principals.
He also maintained that a professional attitude was necessary between both
the public and the school bus operators, conductors and crossing guards to
make the services that the ministry provided “a wholesome experience for all
and the rules and regulations easier to implement.”
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Schools
receive a 65% pass in CXC Examinations
The secondary schools of Antigua and Barbuda have achieved a 65%
pass rate in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate examinations
administered by CXC.
Senior Education Officer, Jacintha Pringle presented a breakdown
of the results during a press conference at the Ministry of Education
where she noted that of the 6,079 subjects taken, students passed
3,961.
877 students from Antigua and Barbuda's 15 secondary schools
took the CXC examinations in May.
The most outstanding student was Ebony Williams-King of the Antigua
Girls' High School, who gained 9 subjects with 9 distinctions.
Jasunella Gore of the Seventh Day Adventist School wrote and passed
the most number of subjects. She wrote and passed 11 subjects.
Miss Pringle said the most outstanding school was the Antigua
Girls'High School, which received 92.2% passes. 86 students took
the CXC examinations and out of the 663 subjects taken, 611 subjects
were passed.
"In second place was the Antigua Grammar School (AGS) with
79% and in third place, Christ the King High School (CKHS) with
a 76.3%. All schools except one obtained more than 50% success
rate," she said.
The English Co-ordinator, Glenfield Joseph reported that English
had received a 79% pass rate, while Mathematics Co-ordinator, Caron
Weston said this year's national pass rate was 38%.
From her research of the results, the Senior Education Officer
observed that apart from AGHS and AGS, fewer students were writing
single sciences. "The number of entries in those subjects
was minimal. It seems as if Integrated Science is taking over and
so Principals will have to look at this and students encouraged
to choose the single sciences as options," she said. She also
observed this trend in the number of entries for the foreign languages
- French and Spanish.
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The Opposition United
Progressive Party now has its own radio station
A new radio station, named “Crusader Radio”, was launched
on Monday 18th August. In addition to music and news features,
it will broadcast UPP public meetings, town hall meetings, profile
UPP candidates and promote UPP policies and programmes.
At the launch, station director Lenworth Johnson explained that
the idea for the new station had been put forward four years ago
by former party chairman, Vincent ‘Tubby’ Derrick. He added that
while the UPP would continue to use other media houses, it was
important to the Party that it had its own media forum.
The new station manager, Conrad Pole, said that the new station
does not anticipate an antagonistic relationship with other stations,
particularly Observer Radio. He stressed that Crusader would be
more partisan in nature, but would be broad-based enough to offer
something for everyone, not just UPP supporters.
Crusader Radio’s programming will include a daily “Let’s Talk” to
address the issues of the day; a gospel show; a Sunday political
round-table called “Face to Face”; and a feature called “Mundo
Latino” intended to reach out to the local Spanish community.
The new station is still in its start-up phase but will eventually
be available on 107.5FM
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Antigua
accepting skilled CARICOM nationals
Antigua and Barbuda is already embracing skilled nationals
from CARICOM member states.
Labour Commissioner Hesketh Williams pointed out that while the
movement of skilled nationals took effect from 1 August, in the
case of Antigua and Barbuda this went into effect from 1 January
2002.
Williams said, however, that there were some teething problems
and the CARICOM Secretariat will convene a meeting in Guyana to
address the problems early September. "There are some teething
problems that are being experienced such as the issue of communication
between the Ministries of Labour and Immigration as to exactly
how this certificate works, what are the implications of an individual
holding such certificates, and the individual's status.
Another problem that needs to be sorted out is whether the certificate
can be used in any other CARICOM member state or if it is just
a matter of formalising the certificate. There are some countries
that think that if Antigua, for example, issued one of its nationals
with a certificate then when that individual travels to another
country that country should not have to issue another certificate
to go through the process again.
At the last Heads of Government meeting of CARICOM member states in Jamaica
a commitment was made by all governments to have the free movement of skilled
nationals implemented as of 1 August. To date only two countries, St. Kitts/Nevis
and Montserrat have not put the Act into operation.
Skilled persons under the act are now able to move freely within
the other member territories. "Now this movement is not automatic
but it comes after one would apply for a Caribbean Community Skilled
National Recognition Certificate and that certificate makes it
possible for the individual who qualifies along with spouse and
children to move freely in and out of a member state without any
restriction. Additionally, it gives the holder of the certificate
the right to own property and to obtain such property whether business
or private, without any restriction,” Williams said.
"The only restriction such a holder certificate may have would be the same
restrictions applying to nationals of the country. In terms of Antigua and Barbuda,
we have put that into operation since January 2002 and to date some five nationals
of other CARICOM member states have been issued with certificates - and there
are another five applications pending for certification."
The first such certificate was issued to Chelston Lee of Observer
Radio.
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Hospital
Board working for December opening
Chief Surgeon, Dr. Joseph "Joey" John has disclosed
that the Board of Mount St. John's Medical Centre is working feverishly
to meet the December opening deadline of the new Hospital.
Dr. John said government has a guarantee from the Chinese firm constructing
the hospital that they will finish the building so that it is usable six months
after they received the $7 million payment. They received the payment on 1
July.
To facilitate a smooth transition, a number of training programmes
have been instituted. This includes new laproscopic type procedures,
installing new ventilators, new monitors and new anaesthesia equipment.
"In addition to that, we are going to embark on an emergency medicine training
course where the first step is to get everybody certified in Basic Life Support
(BLS). Right after that we are going to be purchasing all the crash carts and
defibrillators for the new hospital. We will be installing them at Holberton,
so that each ward will have this facility,” Dr John said.
With the opening of the Mount St. John Medical Centre, Dr. John
says that Holberton Hospital will be transformed into a medical
school.
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Lands at Holberton
rented for $1
 |
The Holberton
Hospital
|
Government has rented lands at Holberton Hospital for $1.00 to
the American International School of Medicine.
Prime Minister Lester Bird, who responded to a question posed by Opposition
leader, Baldwin Spencer, said "I have been asked the question by Spencer
about whether we have rented the hospital for a peppercorn rent of $1, and
the answer to that is yes, it is true and I will be speaking in Parliament
as to all the benefits that will be accrued to Antigua and Barbuda by ensuring
that Holberton Hospital does not go into demise after we move into the new
hospital (Mount St. John Medical Centre).
They (the principals of the new medical facility) are going to
be putting in millions of dollars and the people of Antigua apart
from the first year, will get at least $14 million into the economy.
The next year the economy will receive $31 million based on the
fact that half of the students must live off campus in rented local
premises," the Prime Minister explained.
Asked why the lands would be rented for $1, Mr Bird replied, "It
is a peppercorn rent, it could be a $100, it could be a $1000,
it is not an economic rent because of the contribution being made."
It was pointed out to him that the lands at Jolly Harbour were also sold for
$1.00, but Mr Bird stated emphatically, "Look at Jolly Harbour”. It is
a multi-million dollar project employing a lot of people - we have got to give
a little sometimes, to get back a lot," he said.
The American International School of Medicine will acquire Holberton
Hospital once the transfer to Mount St. John Medical Centre takes
place. The contract to make this a reality was signed in late March
between Prime Minister Lester Bird and President of American International
School of Medicine, Neal Simon and Vice President, Harvey Marshak.
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New Deputy Speaker
for Antigua and Barbuda
Former member of the Opposition United Progressive Party (UPP)
Kenneth Francis has been appointed as the new Deputy Speaker of
the House of Representatives.
Francis replaces dissident Antigua Labour Party (ALP) parliamentarian
Sherfield Bowen, who resigned from the post on July 1. Bowen was
among three other government MPs, who in June walked out on the
ruling ALP and announced that they had become independent members
of Parliament.
Bowen had also tried unsuccessfully to table a motion of no confidence
in Prime Minister Lester Bird.
Following his appointment, Francis dismissed suggestions that
the move signalled his intention to join the ALP, insisting that
he wanted to provide a service to the people of Antigua and Barbuda. "It
is all about serving, there is nothing more important than that
and once you are called to serve your country and your people I
think you have an obligation to do so," he said. Francis also
declared his intention to contest the upcoming general elections
widely expected to be called before year-end, but would not say
which political party he would be supporting.”
Francis was dismissed from the UPP after a falling out with its
leadership. He became the third person to be expelled from the
party since the last general elections. The other two were the
late Tim Hector, and the late Donald Halstead.
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Hotel
employees receive CHA Foundation academic scholarships
Six hotel industry employees at member properties of the Antigua
Hotels and Tourist Association AHTA have won Caribbean Hotel Association
Foundation academic scholarships.
The announcement was made by the Association following adjudication of the
2003 scholarship awards by the CHA Foundation Board in Puerto Rico.
The recipients of the 2003 CHA awards are Maudrina Henry and Kim O’Choa Williams
of Blue Waters Hotel, Antigua; Nelecia Yeates, Ruby Tang-Maginley and Paulette
Edwards of Jolly Beach Resort; and James Richards of Jolly Harbour Villas.
The winners of the academic scholarships have been allotted bursaries to cover
tuition and other expenses related to pursuing their courses at prominent international
hospitality institutes including Cornell University, Johnson and Wales University,
Culinary Institute of America, the University of the West Indies and Lausanne
Hospitality Institute.
Established in 1987 as a non-profit organization, the CHA Foundation offers
scholarships for technical and professional development of Caribbean hotel
industry personnel and students pursuing hotel and tourism careers. These industry
personnel must demonstrate a strong commitment to the hotel and tourist industry
and the potential for future success as well as be approved by the relative
national hotel association.
The Antiguan scholarship winners were nominated by their respective employers
based on outstanding performance on the job and proven potential. The opportunities
are available only to hotels that are members of AHTA and CHA.
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Hospitality
Training Institute opens soon
Plans to formally open the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality
Training Institute at Dutchman’s Bay are now being finalized.
Chairman of the Board, Dr. Clarence Henry confirmed that they are now awaiting
the final Cabinet decision to fill the vacant positions of tutors who are required
to deliver the programmes at the upgraded institution.
While construction work is completed on the buildings, furniture and 90% of
the equipment have been installed. However, the Institute is still awaiting
the installation of the computer network for its laboratory. The Institute
is also awaiting the delivery of furnishings from the Antigua Hotel and Tourist
Association for the model guest room.
When opened, the Institute is expected to provide training for persons who
are desirous of making a career at various levels in the hospitality industry.
The Government has contributed close to EC$3 million on the improvements to
the facilities at Dutchman’s Bay, while the European Development Fund (EDF)
has contributed a further EC$7 million to the project.
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The mouse makes a
mighty roar
The following is an “Opinion” in The Antigua Sun of
Thursday 28th August 2003
In a case of the mouse roaring, Antigua and Barbuda has taken
on the might and size of the US in its quest to see justice done
in the ongoing controversy over the Internet Gaming Industry, which
our powerful neighbours to the north have blacklisted, causing
the country to lose some $90 million dollars in related revenue.
His Excellency Sir Ronald Sanders said that the US had made specific
commitments to provide market access and national treatment in
individual service sectors, which included gambling and betting
services. However, they did a flip-flop stating that all gaming
services offered on a cross border basis from abroad, including
Antigua and Barbuda, were unlawful. This move by the US caused
several Internet gaming companies operating in Antigua and Barbuda
to take their business elsewhere, resulting in a huge loss of jobs
and in a huge loss of related revenues to the government.
The US ruling not only affected Antigua and Barbuda, but several
other countries. In effect it destabilises the entire WTO multilateral
agreements that make up the General Agreement of Trades and Services
(GATS).
Yet Antigua and Barbuda is the only country that has dared to
challenge the US on this issue. Since our legal challenge on the
matter, the US has continuously dodged the issue and has sought
to put stumbling blocks in the way of a committee to address the
matter.
Nonetheless the continued pressure by the "mouse" Antigua
and Barbuda has finally paid off with the WTO appointing a panel
to look into the affair and make recommendations.
It must be realised here that countries like Canada, the European
Union, Mexico, Taiwan and Japan have also been affected by the
US ruling, for whatever reason, have chosen to remain silent. However,
they are now interested third parties.
As Sir Ronald Sanders said, the Antigua and Barbuda case could
be pioneering, establishing new legal perimeters for the WTO on
similar issues. Should the US not adhere to the findings of the
panel it could destroy the framework of the rules based organisation.
And it is a known fact that the US does not like to be told what
to do.
This action by Antigua and Barbuda should be seen as an admirable
one, in that win or lose it will show that smaller countries can
and must stand up to the US and other first world countries when
their rights are being trampled on.
It is a credit to the WTO that it offers a level playing field
in which justice, rather than size, is what will win the day. If
we are going to survive in the global market and to maintain our
local economies then we must fight for the little leverage that
we can exert to make sure that our economies stay alive.
Gambling is a way of life for the US and from which they make
billions of dollars yearly. To argue that revenues are being taken
away from them is ludicrous. To argue that Internet gaming is a
way for money laundering to flourish is also ludicrous, seeing
that we have adhered to all the checks and balances that the US
has demanded we implement. To talk of a corruption of children
who have access to the Internet is also ludicrous as there are
checks in place to prevent this as well.
It is time that someone stands up to the bullying of the US and
perhaps the little "mouse" that is Antigua and Barbuda
is the one to show the way.
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Major
tourism project at Horse Shoe Reef begins
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of C.O. Williams Construction
Limited Sir Charles Williams has announced the commencement of
his company’s Tourism Project at Horse Shoe Reef (Christian Hill).
This major Tourism Project was approved by government several months ago and
is expected to be of a similar nature to those developed by C.O. Williams in
Barbados.
Prime Minister Lester Bird has welcomed the commencement of this
project, which he said, is consistent with the undertaking of C.O.
Williams to develop the 100 acres of land sold to him by the government.
The development, which will entail several phases, involves the construction
of a major hotel facility, condominiums and cottages and a golf course.
Tourism Minister Molwyn Joseph says the development will assist in satisfying
the objectives of the government’s target of an additional 2000 rooms by 2007
for Cricket’s World Cup to be hosted by the Caribbean.
He noted that he sees the development as a tangible contribution to the government’s
revenue system and providing employment to the people of the community.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in time for the
2004 winter tourist season.
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