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ST. KITTS & NEVIS POLITICS
(November 2005 to January 2006)
ST.
KITTS AND NEVIS SEEKS BRITISH ASSISTANCE IN
COMBATTING
INCREASE IN ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 25TH 2006 (CUOPM) – Britain’s Non-Resident High Commissioner to St. Kitts and Nevis His Excellency Mr. Duncan Taylor presented his credentials to the Federation’s Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas on Tuesday.
Dr. Douglas in welcoming the newly-accredited British Government official who is based in Barbados said his St. Kitts and Nevis Government has approached the Tony Blair Administration for further assistance to the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and in combatting an increase in anti-social behaviour.
“Our relationship has been extremely long and very deeply rooted and over the years, we have been able to enjoy the fruits of our relationship based of course on mutual respect for each other as two independent countries, not withstanding the very long historical ties that we have had with Great Britain,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who noted that Mr. Taylor begins his tour of duty at a time when the Caribbean is undergoing tremendous change as “we prepare ourselves to meet the challenges of globalisation and as we as a Caribbean people have taken the very determined position to be better able to prepare ourselves and tom make our countries and people more competitive in dealing with a more hostile external environment.”
Dr. Douglas also noted that St. Kitts and Nevis is also experiencing more than the normal challenges of the times with the closure last July of the sugar industry, which has had much impact on the socio-economic and political development of the people of the twin-island nation.
“With it has come tremendous change, tremendous challenges to our people and apart from the numbers of persons who became unemployed since July last year, we are still confronted with very serious economic challenges including a high national debt at a time when we are beginning to transform the national economy moving away from sugar-based agriculture to one of services led mainly by hospitality and tourism, financial services and information communications technology,” said Dr. Douglas.
He pointed out that a few years ago, St. Kitts and Nevis spent an enormous amount of resources – financial and otherwise – to bring the sector in line with acceptable international standards.
Prime Minister Douglas also cited the continued challenge of the social issues which continue to confront the Federation daily and advised the British diplomat that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has communicated to his office in Barbados, the Government’s concern on the increase in anti-social behaviour and the need for the British Government’s assistance in fighting crime.
He noted that in 1995 the British Government had given assistance for a Police Development Programme in the recruitment of three British advisors which introduced changes in the law enforcement body.
The St. Kitts and Nevis leader hoped that during the tour of duty of the British Government’s representative, the relationship between Britain and the Federation “would be strengthened and we would be better able to improve the quality of life of our people.”
While here Mr. Taylor paid courtesy calls on Governor General, His Excellency Dr. Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, other Ministers in the Federal Government, the Premier of Nevis, the Hon. Vance Amory and the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, the Hon. Malcolm Guishard.
ECCB
Governor Reports on The Economic Performance of The Currency Union
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 12TH 2006 (CUOPM) – Governor of the St. Kitts-based Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Sir K. Dwight Venner will discuss the economic performance of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) on Thursday night.
Following a presentation, Governor Venner will engage the public in the ECCU member states of Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the simultaneously radio and television broadcast.
“Governor Venner will inform the public about the performance of the currency union during the past year and the outlook for the medium term. Following the broadcast, a cross-section of persons at the Bank’s Headquarters and Agency Offices linked by video-conferencing technology, will discuss the issues arising from the report,” a statement from the ECCB said.
The ECCB said that the initiative is intended to enhance the public’s understanding of key economic issues impacting the member countries of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union both at the country and regional levels and provide a forum for generating ideas on the way forward.
Lutron
employees urged to increase level of performance
to
benefit from upturn in United States economy
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 11TH 2006 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Sustainable Development, the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has called on employees in the light manufacturing sector to increase the level of their performance to reap the benefits of the upturn in the United States economy.
Delivering the Feature Address at the opening of Quality Awareness Week at Lutron Liamuiga – assemblers of lighting controls - Prime Minister Douglas noted the relation of the global outlook led by the industrialised and developed countries impact on the domestic economy.
Lutron products are installed worldwide including the White House, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and the headquarters of Johnson & Johnson and AT&T in the United States, the Taj Mahal in India and international celebrities including Eddie Murphy and President George W. Bush. Besides St. Kitts, Lutron has two plants in the United States and one each in Puerto Rico and China.
Dr. Douglas pointed out that from all the statistics available there is going to be an improvement in the economies of those countries and therefore there would be some effect the local St. Kitts and Nevis economy.
He said that globalisation has brought significant challenges to the manufacturing companies and as the competition escalates with new manufacturing giants making their mark in the arena of global trade it is not surprising that companies would want to respond by paying more attention to matters of efficiency, the quality of products and services, as well as customer satisfaction.
“These issues are critical as companies attempt to gain competitive advantages, and it is particularly essential for companies operating in the Caribbean region to do so.”
Prime Minister Douglas emphasised that “high value products matched with high quality and reliability in service are all substantial selling points for Caribbean operations, and it is important that we sustain such an edge here in St. Kitts and Nevis and in the Caribbean region.”
He reminded the 300 Lutron employees and management staff assembled that the small labour force in St. Kitts and Nevis “enjoys the benefits of legal and conventional industrial relations.
“We may not necessarily be the most competitive in terms of labour costs, but I wish to emphasise at the same time, that we are an educated people and I am sure that every single one of you here has had the opportunity to enter into a secondary school. You are relying therefore on your intelligence, the skills that you have acquired so that you can compete in terms of the quality of the product that comes from this company and goes all over the world,” said the Prime Minister.
Dr. Douglas noted that as training and education continue to play significant roles in gaining that competitive edge in manufacturing, it is also important that “Best Practices” are employed as a means of sustaining levels of high efficiency, high levels of high motivation among staff, and in keeping and expanding one’s customer base.
He said there has to be a mutually beneficial relationship between employer and employees, and problems that may arise are dealt with through dialogue in an atmosphere and an environment of mutual respect in a timely manner.
“It is important, therefore, that employees are productive and you carry with you a sense of discipline in your own work, that management is also fair and courteous, and promote an environment that enhances productivity, which is one of the essential requirements of your management,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
The St. Kitts and Nevis leader also hoped that the emerging telecommunications environment in the Caribbean would enhance associated cost structures and ultimately assist in the long-term sustainability of light-manufacturing in St. Kitts and Nevis and in the wider Caribbean region.
The ceremony, chaired by John Williams, was also attended by Lutron representatives from overseas and officials of Cable & Wireless, Rams Group of Companies and TDC.
CSME
and MERCUSOR provide opportunities for Caribbean manufacturers PM Douglas tells
Kajola-Kristada international sales representatives
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 9TH 2006 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas says the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) as well as the soon to be completed trade negotiations between CARICOM and the MERCOSUR countries will be a big boost for Caribbean manufacturers.
Addressing over 70 International Sales Representatives of Kajola-Kristada, a local company which assembles brass and aluminum connectors as well as traps and filters for the Cable TV market, Prime Minister Douglas thanked the six-year old company for the confidence that has been displayed in the people and in the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis as it continues to carve out a niche within the global market.
“A successful bi-lateral trade agreement between CARICOM and MERCOSUR is very likely to bring about substantial benefits for member countries not only of CARICOM but also of MERCOSUR, and of course by extension, and more specifically, the manufacturing companies of the Caribbean region which would benefit enormously,” said Prime Minister Douglas during the two-day meeting at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort..
He told the sales representatives from several countries including Pakistan, China, India, the United States, Brazil, Argentina and Germany that the final negotiations between CARICOM and MERCOSUR will have manufactured products classified as sensitive or special products. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Ms. Terry Nisbett also attended the session.
“What all of this really means is that when the agreement is completed and comes into effect there will be a substantial boost for Caribbean manufacturers, including Kajola-Kristada Ltd to benefit through demand for its own products within the wider MERCOSUR market. The spin-offs therefore are obvious. There would be improved profitability to your company, there would be the expansion of your plant facilities, and for us here in St. Kitts and Nevis, we expect that there would be increased employment opportunities as the company works towards maximising its own opportunities in such a large and expanded market,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
He said that the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) which St. Kitts and Nevis will enter by the end of February “allows for several significant benefits for member countries that include the free movement of goods, the free movement of services and the free movement of capital, thus further integrating the economies within the Caribbean Community making us more competitive globally to deal with a much more hostile environment.”
“This means the elimination of all barriers to intra-regional movement and harmonisation standards to ensure acceptability of goods and services. What it means is that companies like Kajola-Kristada could have easier and much more direct duty-free access to other member countries of the Caribbean Community who are part of the CSME. By creating this new entity, your company will not only be able to trade in the wider Latin American market through MERCOSUR, but the CSME will allow you to trade your products within the Caribbean region among the member countries of the Caribbean Community and this is going to be done without the hassles and the barriers of duty, etc. etc,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who charged the company directors to explore every opportunity to expand their own market share in a heavily competitive global trade environment.
Dr. Douglas said that the future for Kajola-Kristada, which employs just over 200 persons, “looks extremely promising, and I am sure that each of you would play your part in helping to secure current customers as well as building access to new customers around the world.”
PM
Douglas calls on nationals and residents to set aside differences
BASSETERRE,
ST. KITTS, JANUARY 1ST 2006 (CUOPM)
– St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas has
called on nationals to uphold the fundamental tenets warning that crime if go
unchecked can wipe out the progress made over the last 10 years.
He
said that the values that Christ preached are universal values and no society
can survive and prosper unless it practices the fundamental religious tenets.
“Respect
for life, desisting from killing one another, honouring our father and mother,
refraining from stealing, telling the truth, minimising and resolving conflict
by turning the other cheek, overcoming enemies through love and not war and
spreading peace and goodwill to neighbours and all mankind,” were among the
tenets referred by Prime Minister Douglas as he delivered his annual New
Year’s Message.
Dr.
Douglas said that unless these values are upheld in St. Kitts and Nevis, “we
can easily wipe out all the gains that we have achieved during the past 10
years” and the benefits accruing from improved education, transport, housing,
health and employment are of no use to if the level of crime and violence
continues unchecked.
“There
is nothing that the new Marriott Hotel in St. Kitts or the established Four
Seasons Hotel in Nevis can do to attract tourists, if people feel unsafe in this
our beautiful country. There is
nothing that the new golf courses or the new horse-racing track can do to boost
tourism unless our visitors feel comfortable in our midst. There is nothing our
well-trained workers in the hospitality or any other service industry can do to
increase productivity if they feel threatened in their own homes and in our
streets,” suggested Prime Minister Douglas, who appealed to nationals and
residents “to let the true message of Christmas prevail, not just for one day
or one week or one month, but throughout the year.”
“Let
us strive to make St. Kitts and Nevis a safe and happy place where all our
citizens and visitors could enjoy the beauty of our peaceful country and the
prosperity that is now coming our way,” said Dr. Douglas, who further appealed
for the putting aside of differences “to create a better future for all our
people.”
“Let
us all make a simple resolution this new year.
Let us all agree that we will take the moral high ground and do only what
is right and proper in the sight of God. Peace on Earth and Goodwill to All must
be the clarion call of all our people. This country needs more peacemakers in
2006. Persons who will turn the other cheek; Persons who will bite their tongue
before responding with a harsh word; persons who will not seek to win every
battle, every argument…every encounter every time,” said Prime Minister
Douglas.
He
said that while the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis cannot legislate for
perfection, “we can pass the legislation and equip the law enforcement
agencies to reduce crime and violence.”
“We
can also endeavour to eliminate the conditions of poverty, overcrowding and
ignorance that breed crime. And
this is what we have been doing over the past ten years,” said Dr. Douglas.
He
added that the social and economic enhancement programmes outlined in the 2006
Budget seeks to consolidate the gains that have been made.
“The
public/private sector consultations which we have committed towards continuing
in the New Year are all geared at fostering elements of consensus in our
approach to economic restructuring. To a significant degree, we have proven to
the world that we can build our beloved Federation economically,” said the
Prime Minister.
He
said the challenge now is for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis to demonstrate
to all and sundry that “we can progress socially and harmoniously; that we are
matured and responsible enough to guarantee a safe and welcoming environment for
residents and visitors alike.”
“In
pursuing this goal, we have to draw on the social and moral capital of this our
proud nation. We therefore wish to
appeal to you and remind you of your responsibility towards each other.
The only way we can reduce the level of crime and anti-social behaviour
in this our beloved country is to become once again our brother’s keeper.
Let us respect our brothers and sisters; let us keep watch over their
property and protect them from those who would want to deprive them of what is
theirs,” Prime Minister Douglas urged.
He said he was convinced that it is only a small minority of residents of this country who are responsible for the recent spate of crime and violence. “I believe that we can help to apprehend them and what’s more, help to prevent similar outbreaks in future. I urge you to do what you know is right,” said the Prime Minister, who commended the men and women of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force for their vigilance over the festive season.
DIPLOMATS, FORMER PERMANENT SECRETARIES GET HONOURS (001/2006
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, SUNDAY 1ST JANUARY 2006 (CUOPM) Two diplomats and two
former Permanent Secretaries have been honoured by Britains Queen Elizabeth in
her traditional New Years Honours List.
Government House announced that the Federations Kingston-based High Commissioner
to Jamaica and Ambassador to the Republic of Cuba, His Excellency Cedric Layon
Harper has been awarded the Order of St. Michael and St. George (CMG) for Public
Service.
The Order of the British Empire (OBE) (Civil Division) was conferred on
Ambassador at Large and former Speaker of the St. Kitts and Nevis National
Assembly, His Excellency Walford Vincent Gumbs, for services to Trade Unionism.
The Order of Member of the British Empire (MBE) was conferred on former
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and
Posts, Mr. Raphael Adonis Archibald for Public Service
Former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Mrs. Hillary Elizabeth
Wattley was given the Order of Member of the British Empire (MBE) for Public
Service.
Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has offered congratulations to the
latest recipients of Her Majestys New Years Honours.
Prime Minister Douglas Emphasise Job Creation
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, JANUARY 1ST 2006 (CUOPM) Prime Minister the Hon. Dr.
Denzil L. Douglas said Sunday that his governing St. Kitts-Nevis Labour
Government which has been in office for 10 years, has created at least three
jobs in the Tourism and the other booming sectors of the economy for every job
lost in the Sugar Industry.
Since coming to office this Labour administration has made tremendous progress
in raising the standard of living and the quality of life of our people, said
St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas in his
traditional New Years message.
Asking the nation to cast their minds back to the first half of the 1990s when
there was political chaos and economic stagnation in St. Kitts and Nevis, Prime
Minister Douglas noted that since 1995, under a Labour Government, this country
has made rapid strides, reaching a Human Development Index, second only to
Barbados in this region in a matter of 10 short years.
He recalled that in his 2006 Budget address less than three weeks ago, he
provided a detailed breakdown of the progress the Federation has made and the
challenges that will confront this developing nation.
I outlined also several of the programmes and projects that will be undertaken
to carry the process of development and modernisation forward. I do not propose
on this occasion to repeat such. What I call upon you to do at this time is
reflect on the progress that we have made, as a nation and as individual
families, over the past ten years, said Prime Minister Douglas.
Dr. Douglas singled out Good Governance and Strategic Planning as the means
whereby St. Kitts and Nevis has been transformed from an obscured
agriculture-based society to a modern service oriented, competitive state, with
a buoyant economy, and a well-educated and comfortably housed population.
He said that a classic example of good planning and astute management is the way
the Government has dealt with the decline of the sugar cane industry in world
markets and was proud as the leader of St. Kitts and Nevis to have overseen the
demise of King Sugar without the devastating economic decline and social unrest
that are associated with the collapse of a major economic sector.
Notwithstanding our valiant efforts to save the Sugar Industry, out of an
abundance of caution, we had made meticulous preparations for the eventual
demise of this important Industry, said Dr. Douglas.
Harvard
Law School Jesse Climenko Professor of Law and Vice Dean
for
the Clinical Programs, Charles Ogletree, is the featured speaker
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, DECEMBER 29TH 2005 (CUOPM) - Harvard Law School Jesse Climenko Professor of Law and Vice Dean for the Clinical Programs, Charles Ogletree, is the featured speaker at the Fifth Annual Prime Minister’s New Year’s Gala.
Chairperson of the Gala Committee, the Hon. Marcella Liburd said that the prominent legal theorist who has made an international reputation by taking a hard look at complex issues of law and by working to secure the rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution, has accepted the invitation of St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas to speak at the January 1st 2006 event at the Grand Ballroom of the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort.
Professor Ogletree has examined legal issues not only in the classroom, on the Internet and in the pages of prestigious law journals, but also in the everyday world of the public defender in the courtroom and in public television forums where these issues can be dramatically revealed.
According to hid bio, armed with an arsenal of facts, Charles Ogletree presents and discusses the challenges that face our justice system and its attempt to deliver equal treatment to all our citizens. He furthers dialogue by insisting that the justice system protect rights guaranteed to those citizens by law.
In 1998, Professor Ogletree was awarded
the Jesse Climenko Professor of Law chair at Harvard Law School. He holds
honorary doctorates of law from North Carolina Central University, New England
School of Law, Tougaloo College, Amherst College, Wilberforce University, and
the University of Miami School of Law.
Professor Ogletree earned an M.A. and B.A.
(with distinction) in Political Science from Stanford University, where he was
Phi Beta Kappa. He also holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School where he served as
Special Projects Editor of the Harvard Civil Rights - Civil Liberties Law
Review.
Charles Ogletree began his illustrious
career as a staff attorney in the District of Columbia Public Defender Service.
He quickly rose through the ranks serving as Training Director, Trial Chief, and
Deputy Director of the Service before entering private practice in 1985 in the
law firm of Jessamy, Fort & Ogletree. Professor Ogletree is formerly “of
Counsel” to the Washington, D.C. firm of Jordan, Keys & Jessamy.
Professor Ogletree is the author of the
forthcoming book, All Deliberate Speed: Reflections on the First Half-Century of
Brown v. Board of Education, published by W.W. Norton & Company, to be
released in April of 2004.
He is the co-author of the award-winning book, Beyond the Rodney King Story: An Investigation of Police Conduct in Minority Communities, and he frequently contributes to the Harvard Law Review, among other publications. He has written chapters in several books, including If You Buy the Hat, He Will Come, in Faith of Our Fathers: African American Men Reflect on Fatherhood and The Tireless Warrior for Racial Justice, which appears in Reason & Passion: Justice Brennan's Enduring Influence. Privileges and Immunities for Basketball Stars and Other Sport Heroes? appears in Basketball Jones, published in 2000.
In addition, Professor Ogletree's commentaries on a broad range of timely and important issues have appeared in the editorial pages of the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and the Boston Globe, among other national newspapers. His commentary on how to make Black America better was published in the 2001 compilation, Lift Every Voice and Sing. Most recently, Professor Ogletree has contributed a chapter entitled The Rehnquist Revolution in Criminal Procedure, which appears in The Rehnquist Court: Judicial Activism on the Right, published in 2002.
In 1991, Professor Ogletree served as
Legal Counsel to Professor Anita Hill during the Senate Confirmation hearings
for Justice Clarence Thomas. His reflections on those experiences are contained
in The People vs. Anita Hill: The Case for Client-Centered Advocacy, a chapter
of the book, Race, Gender and Power in America. He was profiled in an article in
The American Lawyer entitled, Tree Time. More recently, Professor Ogletree was
prominently featured in award-winning author Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot's
compelling book, I've Known Rivers, and in a Boston Globe magazine article
entitled, Faith in the System.
In 2003, he was selected by Savoy Magazine
as one of the 100 Most Influential Blacks in America and by Black Enterprise
Magazine, along with Thurgood Marshall, A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr., and Constance
Baker Motley (of Nevisian parents), as one of the legal legends among America's
top black lawyers. In 2002, he received the National Bar Association's
prestigious Equal Justice Award. In 2001, he joined a list of distinguished
jurists, including former Supreme Court Justices Thurgood Marshall and William
Brennan, and civil rights lawyers Elaine Jones and Oliver Hill, when he received
the prestigious Charles Hamilton Houston Medallion of Merit from the Washington
Bar Association.
He also held the Wayne Morse Chair of Law and Politics at the University of Oregon Law School and was a Scholar in Residence at Stanford University. In 2000, Professor Ogletree was selected by the National Law Journal as one of the 100 Most Influential Lawyers in America. He has received numerous awards, including the National Conference on Black Lawyers People's Lawyer of the Year Award, the Man of Vision Award from the Museum of Afro-American History in Boston, the 1993 Albert Sacks-Paul A. Freund Award for Teaching Excellence at Harvard Law School, and in 1995, The Ellis Island Medal of Honor and The Ruffin-Fenwick Trailblazer Award named in honor of the first African-American man and woman to graduate from Harvard Law School.
In 1996, the National Bar Association honored him with its Presidential Award for The Renaissance Man of the Legal Profession. He was also awarded the International House of Blues Foundation Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award, The Justice Louis Brandeis Medal for Public Service, and the 21st Century Achievement Award from the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts.
In addition to his strong academic focus, Charles Ogletree's national media experience and exposure is considerable in its scope. In 2001 and 2002, Professor Ogletree moderated the nationally-televised forums, State of the Black Union and Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community, produced by Tavis Smiley Productions. Professor Ogletree also served as the moderator of four of producer Fred Friendly's seminal ten-part series, Ethics in America, which aired on PBS. Since 1990, he has moderated dozens of similar programs, including Hard Drugs, Hard Choices, Liberty & Limits: Whose Law, Whose Order? and Credibility in the Newsroom. Professor Ogletree has also appeared as a guest commentator on Nightline, This Week with David Brinkley, McNeil-Lehrer News Hour, Crossfire, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Larry King Live, Cochran & Company, Burden of Proof, and Meet the Press as well as other national and local television and radio programs. He served as NBC legal commentator on the O.J. Simpson case.
Professor Ogletree also serves as the
Co-Chair of the Reparations Coordinating Committee, a group of lawyers and other
experts researching a lawsuit based upon a claim of reparations for descendants
of African slaves, along with Randall Robinson, co-author of The Debt: What
America Owes to Blacks.
Professor Ogletree has a long record of
commitment and service to public schools and higher education. He completed ten
years of service to his alma mater, as a member of the Stanford University Board
of Trustees, and for five years served as the national Chairman of the Stanford
Fund, the University's principal fund raising organization. Professor Ogletree's
development activities have also raised substantial funds for Harvard Law and
the UDC, where he currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of
the University of the District of Columbia, a land grant and historically black
college and university. He continues to serve as the Chairman of the Board of
the B.E.L.L. Foundation, which is committed to educating minority children in
after school programs in Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.
In addition, Professor Ogletree served as one of the founding members and trustee of the Benjamin Banneker Charter School in Cambridge, a school that provides educational opportunities in math, science and technology to minority children in a public school setting. Professor Ogletree attended public schools in his hometown of Merced, California, and has set up a scholarship fund there that now annually provides support for needy students who want to pursue higher education. He has also provided scholarship support for students at Harvard Law School, Stanford University, and the University of the District of Columbia.
STATEMENT ON CRIME IN ST. KITTS AND NEVIS
The
following is a joint statement issued by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis
and representatives of the non-governmental organisations.
The
Hon Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil L Douglas, today hosted a meeting with
representatives of nine(9) non-governmental
organizations:
St.
Kitts-Nevis Chamber of Industry & Commerce
St.
Christopher Heritage Society
St.
Kitts Evangelical Association
St.
Kitts Christian Council
St.
Kitts Teachers Union
The
Rotary Club of St. Kitts
The
Rotary Club of Liamuiga
St.
Kitts-Nevis Hotel & Tourism Association
St.
Kitts-Nevis Bar Association
The
Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of National Security,
the Hon Attorney General, the Chief Secretary, Permanent Secretary in the
Ministry of National Security, and his
Press Secretary
The
Hon. Prime Minister outlined decision taken by government to address the recent
spate of violent crime and to strengthen the crime-fighting capabilities of the
Police Force. Prime Minister
Douglas stressed that immediate action will be taken to increase public security
and safety in the upcoming carnival celebrations.
There
was very frank exchange of views on the subject of crime and its causes and
several proposals were put forward by the non-governmental organizations towards
short and long term solutions to the problem.
The
parties agreed on the importance of a unified
national approach to this issue and the need to send the strongest
possible message that criminal activity of any kind will not tolerated.
The
Prime Minister will address the issue in an address tomorrow Friday 23rd
December at the Annual Christmas Luncheon of the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence
Force. The remarks will be broadcast live on radio at about 12:30 p.m.
The
Prime Minister ended the meeting with an assurance that the Government will not
allow fear of crime to prevent the citizens and residents of the Federation from
going about their normal business at this festive time of the year.
He gave the assurance that Government will continue to work on this situation and if necessary will call in whatever external assistance is required.
December 22, 2005
ST
JOHN'S, Antigua: Thursday, December
22, 2005: Well-known regional journalist and Caribbean Net
News senior correspondent, Norman Gus Thomas, died early Thursday morning at
Holberton hospital in Antigua at the age of 50. A native of St Kitts, Gus
Thomas spent 10 years as press secretary to former prime minister of Antigua and
Barbuda Lester Bird, before joining Caribbean Net News last year.
Formerly employed by Voice of America, Gus Thomas enjoyed unparalleled access to regional heads of government and sources of news, which led at least one Caribbean prime minister to ask how it was that Gus Thomas had access to CARICOM reports before member governments.
Desmond Seales, publisher and editor-in-chief of Caribbean Net News, said, Gus Thomas was the quintessential newsman, always ready to pick up his camera and chase breaking news at a moment's notice. Although based in Antigua, Gus worked with us here in the Cayman Islands for a short time and he will be greatly missed, not only by our news organisation, but throughout the region.・p align="left" class="mainstory">Sir Ronald Sanders, a former colleague in the Antigua and Barbuda government, said, was shocked and profoundly saddened to hear of Gus Thomas' passing. Gus was dedicated to the idea that the Internet would revolutionise news coverage and distribution, and he was right about that. His early work in this area was an example to others. I mourn with those whose lives he touched.・p align="left" class="mainstory"> Gus Thomas did not enjoy the best of health, having survived two strokes in recent years. He was hospitalised on Tuesday morning but his condition was such that the medical services in Antigua were not able to help him. He died before arrangements could be made to send him by air ambulance to Miami.
Gus Thomas is survived by his partner of ten years, Penelope Daly, and his three children. Funeral arrangements will be announced as soon as they are known.
The late Norman 'Gus' Thomas
CSME will bring great benefits to region, says PM Douglas
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, DECEMBER 20TH 2005 (CUOPM) The Caribbean
Single Market and Economy (CSME) will bring great benefits to the Caribbean
Community as a whole and would help to raise regional growth rates.
St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas said his ruling
St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party firmly believes that the regional integration
movement could only stand on a firm footing if the relevant institutions are
governed by the principles of fairness and equity, and if each member draws real
and tangible benefits from participation in these institutions.
The CSME would enhance the regions prospects for the efficient utilisation of
labour and other factors of production, while providing access to a greater
variety of goods and services in a more competitive environment. This could in
turn accelerate the pace of regional economic development, and provide improved
standards of living and enhanced employment opportunities in the region, Dr.
Douglas.
He was however of the view that while the benefits of the CSME for the region as
whole is beyond doubt, it has become quite clear that not every country in the
region will share in these benefits unless some appropriate mechanism is put in
place to redistribute the gains of the CSME in a fair and equitable manner.
Dr. Douglas said that there could be some winners and some losers as the small
island Caribbean states proceed with the implementation of the CSME.
It is clear that the OECS countries will be among the losers as Heads of
Government of the OECS received a study commissioned by the OECS Secretariat,
which presented hard data highlighting the real and potential benefits and
challenges for OECS Member States participation in the impending CSME.
The study highlighted the fact that the balance of trade between the OECS and
the rest of CARICOM has been increasingly unfavourable to OECS countries,
widening from US$214 million to US$481 million between 1980 and 2003.
Moreover, one of the distinguished Economists of the OECS and the Caribbean as
whole, Sir Alister McIntyre has expressed the view that the provisions in favour
of the LDCs in the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas need to be revisited and
operationalised, as a priority matter and that a case can be made for
elaborating these provisions in the form of detailed annexes to Protocol VII of
the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas or in texts of equivalent legal authority.
Prime Minister Douglas said he fully support Sir Alisters position on the need
to activate the provisions in favour of the LDCs and that the Regional
Development Fund could play a significant role in redistributing the gains of
the CSME.
I share the view of a number of OECS Heads that the establishment of a properly
constituted and well-funded Regional Development Fund is an important
prerequisite to the participation of the OECS in the CSME, said Prime Minister
Douglas, who added that even when the Regional Development Fund is set up and
the countries proceed with the implementation of the CSME in January 2006 as
planned, it will also be necessary to monitor the progress of the OECS countries
in the CSME and keep the relevant Protocols under review so that appropriate
adjustments could be made to ensure that the tiny nations of the OECS are
afforded special and differential treatment in the CSME as intended by the
original framers of the CARICOM Treaty when they placed the OECS countries in
the category of Less Developed Countries.
The St. Kitts and Nevis leader expressed confidence that the people and leaders
of the Caribbean will resolve all outstanding issues in a manner that
facilitates the expeditious implementation of the CSME to the benefit of the
Caribbean Community as a whole and each individual member state.
We are therefore proceeding with our preparations for participation in the CSME.
In particular, we have made good progress with the implementation of the
provisions relating to the freedom of movement of people, and we have recently
launched our machine-readable passport in the format agreed to by CARICOM member
states, said Dr. Douglas.
He noted that the 73-year-old governing St. Kitts-Nevis Labour party of which he
is the current National Political Leader has had a long tradition of giving
strong and unwavering support to the regional integration movement.
We believe that, in view of the trend toward globalisation and the increasingly
fierce and intense competition in global markets, regional integration is even
more critical to the progress of the Caribbean region than ever before, said Dr.
Douglas. He said the Labour Party will remain true to this tradition.
Fifth Annual Prime Ministers New Years Gala on January 1st 2006
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, DECEMBER 20TH 2005 (CUOPM) The date for
the Fifth Annual Prime Ministers New Years Gala has been announced.
Chairperson of the Gala Committee, the Hon. Marcella Liburd said the gala event
will take place at the Grand Ballroom of the St. Kitts Marriott Resort on Sunday
January 1st 2006.
Our distinguished host, the Honourable Dr. Denzil L. Douglas, Prime Minister, is
honoured to have you join him in ushering in 2006 with fine dining, dancing and
top-class local and international entertainment, said Ms. Liburd.
She noted that as St. Kitts and Nevis transition out of sugar into a new
economy, we are well aware of the golden opportunities and the difficult
challenges with which we are presented at this time.
According to Ms. Liburd, the featured speaker, yet un-named, will be one of
international acclaim and will provide the necessary stimulus to take advantage
of the opportunities and overcome the challenges personally and collectively.
Patrons will have the opportunity after the feature address to usher in the New
Year to the sweet strains of the Modern Image Band and make the Prime Ministers
New Years Gala 2006 a memorable occasion for all.
PM Douglas
presents a near tax free half a billion dollar 2006 Budget
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, DECEMBER 13TH 2005 (CUOPM) – All telephone calls including domestic ones, will attract a five percent tax from January 1st next year.
This was one of the fiscal measures announced Tuesday by St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas when he presented a EC$494.7 million Budget for 2006 in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
In his three and a half hour presentation, Prime Minister Douglas also announced an 15 percent excise duty on alcohol and tobacco products and an additional two percent increase in the Social Services Levy that applies only to that portion of salaries in excess of EC$8,000 monthly.
He pointed out that with the liberalisation and increased competition in the telecommunications sector which is exerting downward pressure on the price of the telephone service, it is unlikely that the overall telephone bill of consumers would increase substantially in 2006 even after the revised tax is levied.
Dr. Douglas said the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector has also opened up opportunities for not only other companies to engage in this business but the competition has served to reduce prices considerably.
“We feel that the time is now right to extend the current tax on international calls to land based calls,” said Dr. Douglas, who pointed out that the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector was a very costly and time consuming exercise and the Federal Government was still servicing a loan from the World Bank that was used to finance the liberalisation process.
“The increased tax will therefore assist in the servicing of this loan,” he told the Federation.
Dr. Douglas noted that the current Income Tax Legislation requires companies to file their tax returns by the 15th of April each year but allows them three months after their assessment to make payment to the Inland Revenue Department.
“This does not allow the Government to manage its cash flow in an effective manner. Therefore in order to address this issue the Income Tax legislation will be amended to allow for self-assessment and for payment to be made on the date of filing,” said Prime Minister Douglas, who emphasised that this does not represent an increase in taxation. “It merely requires earlier payment of the Income Tax paid by corporations,” he said.
According to Dr. Douglas, as St. Kitts and Nevis begins to tackle the fiscal impact of the closure of the sugar industry, matters such as the servicing of the debt, providing for the health, training and social protection of former sugar workers, the maintenance of the environment and land management issues, have cost implications.
In trying to come up with innovative ways of raising revenue to assist with the sugar transition, the Federal Government has been consulting with its economic and social partners on the tax system that they feel would be best suited to the structure of the new economy and have also been studying the proposals of the Tax Reform and Administration Commission.
Dr. Douglas said that one of the overlapping areas of concern is with respect to the lack of ‘progressivity’ of the Federation’s tax system in the absence of personal income tax.
“To address the foregoing, from 1st January 2006, we have decided to increase the Social Services Levy from 8% to 10% for salaries in excess of $8000 per month. This increase would only apply to the portion of salary in excess of $8000,” said Dr. Douglas.
He told the Federation that the transition of sugar will result in substantial increases in the cost of social services, including health care and social safety net payments and this increase will help in defraying a portion of the additional cost.
Imposing a 15 percent tax on alcohol and tobacco products, Prime Minister Douglas noted that in most countries, alcoholic and tobacco products, which are injurious to one’s health and which place a burden on the health system, are normally more heavily taxed than other consumer goods.
“In St. Kitts and Nevis, the reverse is often true in that these goods are sometimes taxed less severely than other goods. To correct this anomaly, an excise duty will be introduced on alcoholic and tobacco products to be levied on the c.i.f. values of these goods plus any applicable import duties,” said Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Douglas, who explained that the excise duty will be applied at the rate of 15 percent initially.
“This tax is consistent with our efforts at promoting healthy life styles among our people. Moreover, our health system incurs tremendous cost in respect of diseases associated with the consumption of alcohol and tobaccos. It is only fair that the users of these products be asked to bear a portion of this cost,” said Dr. Douglas, who outlined his Governments plans to further the growth and development of the economy particularly in light of the need for transformation after the closure of the sugar industry and in addressing the debt situation.
The Prime Minister said that as St. Kitts and Nevis faces the challenges which inevitably accompany change, both the public and private sectors have areas of responsibility that must be fulfilled.
Government is responsible among other things for creating a stable and predictable macroeconomic environment, but the Government on its own does not have all of the finances, knowledge and social capital necessary to propel the economy along the desired path.
“The citizens of St Kitts and Nevis must therefore be prepared to contribute to the successful transformation of our country. I am sure that we would all agree that some sacrifices are necessary in order to take us successfully through this period of our development,” said Prime Minister Douglas.
Future
development of St. Kitts’ railway comes under the microscope
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 30TH 2005 (CUOPM) – With the closure of the sugar industry last July, the future development of the railway comes under the microscope early next month.
Project Officer with the St. Kitts Sugar Transition Office, Mr. Keith Phillip said Wednesday that the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the St. Kitts Scenic Railway and the SSMC Transition Management Office, will host a National Railway Symposium at the Bird Rock Beach Hotel on Tuesday 6th December.
Mr. Phillip told the Communications Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister that several critical presentations will be made by local and overseas officials on the future of the railway, which was used to transport cane to the St. Kitts Sugar Factory.
A few years ago the St. Kitts Scenic Railway Inc. also began using the railway for scenic trips around St. Kitts initiating one of the most exhilarating experiences in the Caribbean described as “only a one-of-a-kind scenic wonder traveling over 23 bridges” and the “best way to get to know St. Kitts’ fascinating history.”
Mr. Phillip said Acting Chief Executive Officer in the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, Ms. Christine Walwyn will make a presentation on the “Impact of the Railway on the Tourism Industry.”
Operations Manager of St. Kitts Scenic Railway, Mr. Thomas Williams will give an overview of the SSR Proposal for the Future National Railway, while Railway Industrialist, Mr. Thomas G. Rader, will make a presentation on “The National Railway, Implications for the new era.”
Director of Physical Planning, Mr. Ellis Hazel will submit the National Physical Planning Position on the National Railway, with specific reference on the implications for a sustainable environment, investment and development.
Guest of the St. Christopher Heritage Society, Mr. David Rolinson will present a paper on the “Historic Review of Rail Service in St. Kitts/Stabilisation of Historic Resources.”
Participants attending the one day symposium are expected to form groups to look at “The potential role of the railway for commuter transport”, “The potential for the development of the tourism industry”, “The potential for freight hauling” and “The potential use of the railway as a corridor for the distribution of electricity.”
The Symposium Transition Management Office Team Leader, Mr. Gordon Alert, Operations Manager, Mr. Oswald Martin, Minister of Transport, Dr. the Hon. Earl Asim Martin and Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Cedric Liburd will speak at the opening of the symposium.
Technical
team here to continue discussion on CARICOM Single Market and Economy
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 30TH 2005 (CUOPM) – A series of meetings aimed at sensitising nationals of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis on the CARICOM Single Market and Economy will be held here on Wednesday and Friday.
The meetings are in preparation for an upcoming Official Visit by Barbados Prime Minister and CARICOM lead Head with responsibility for the CSME, the Right Hon. Owen Arthur.
According to the St. Kitts and Nevis Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, a technical team of high level officials from the Georgetown-based CARICOM Secretariat, the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the St. Lucia-based Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Secretariat and the St. Kitts-based Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) will meet with the interest groups to stimulate public awareness and discussion on the CSME.
In order to ensure that the unique concerns of the public/private sectors and non-state actors are meaningfully addressed, two meetings will be held during which senior public and private sector officials from Nevis and St. Kitts will be engaged.
The Private Sector meeting will be held on Wednesday, 30th November from 1:30 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. and the Public Sector on Thursday 1st December from 9:30 A.M. and 12: Noon. Both meetings will be held at the OTI Conference Room.
The Ministry said the discussions will focus on aspects of the CSME, which are of greatest concern to the OECS member states.
Pertinent issues include difficulties including those relating to the Alien Landholding Legislation and technical assistance required to meet the 31st December 2005 deadline for the Single Market, Special and Differential Treatment, the Development Fund (to assist disadvantaged countries, regions and sectors), assured markets and possible special and differential treatment for specific agriculture commodities as well as OECS Economic Union within the CSME.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade has issued an appeal to all stakeholders to participate in this process, bearing in mind this consultation is an effort towards maximising the benefits and opportunities which will accompany the CSME.
400
of the world’s leading poker players head for St. Kitts
to
participate in Caribbean Poker Classic Tournament
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 24TH 2005 (CUOPM) – Over 400 of the world’s leading poker players descend on St. Kitts this weekend for the 2005 Caribbean Poker Classic Tournament.
The tournament at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort and Royal Beach Casino not only allows players to soak up the sun, but take home the estimated prize pool of US$2 million during the November 26th to December 4th event.
A Royal Beach Casino official told the Communications Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister Thursday night that 200 poker players will arrive here by charter from the United Kingdom on Friday. 150 players are coming from the United States and the rest from several countries around the world.
A Welcome Party will be held for the poker players on Friday night and the poker tournament starts on Saturday.
Poker is normally associated with millionaire playboys and the casinos of Las Vegas, but for a hairdresser from The Grange, in Scotland, Mum Lucia Barrett, is about to take on the world's leading poker players in a challenge which promises a £1.4 million prize to the winner.
According to Casino City Times, Barrett will jet off to the celebrity paradise island of St. Kitts for the Caribbean Poker Classic.
“The amateur card sharp, who owns a hairdressing salon in Ratcliffe Terrace, won her entry into the big game after becoming one of the growing army of women who play the traditionally male-dominated game of poker online.
Mrs. Barrett said: “Online poker is a fantastic, fun hobby and even though you always enter in the hope of winning I never dreamt I would get the ticket to St. Kitts.”
“Even if I get knocked out of the tournament immediately, I will still be able to soak up the sunshine. Everyone says St. Kitts is an absolute paradise,” she is quoted as saying.
Queen
calls for expeditious implementation of millennium development goals
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 25TH 2005 (CUOPM) – Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II has opened the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government summit with a call on member states to expedite implementation of the millennium development goals.
The Queen told Commonwealth including St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Denzil L. Douglas that the levels of poverty in the world today called for an accelerated approach from the leadership towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals.
She noted that although the Commonwealth was marked by diversity in culture, religion and race, it should exploit this diversity as a source of strength in meeting economic challenges facing its people.
The Queen called on all member states to act collectively in tackling challenges such as terrorism and disasters.
She said trying moments of terrorism and disaster must bring nations together.
The British monarchy paid tribute to emergency workers from the Commonwealth who volunteered their services during the Tsunami disaster in Indonesia and the earthquake in Pakistan and also expressed gratitude for the messages of encouragement and support she received from the commonwealth during the London bombings.
Out-going Chairperson of the Commonwealth, President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria has expressed confidence with the values and structures he has helped establish at the Commonwealth secretariat.
The Nigerian leader said the Commonwealth secretariat has recorded substantive progress in governance, human rights observation and corruption since the last summit held in Abuja.
He further drew the summit‘s attention to the need for collective response to conflict prevention and management in member countries.
Host Maltese Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi takes over the chairmanship of the Commonwealth from Gen. Obasanjo.
NIA
promotes sustained economic development and statistics literacy
CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (December 25, 2005) -- The Nevis Island Administration has put in place a strategy to promote the sustained economic development of the island and people of Nevis through education and to promote statistics, information and data which will be highlighted during a week of activities December 5-9, 2005.
Under the theme “ Promoting Statistics Literacy: Poverty, the CSME (Caribbean Single Market and Economy) and Sustainable Development” the week of activities will mark the first of its kind for the Department of Statistics and Economic Planning through the Ministry of Finance.
Ms Berneece Herbert Director of the Department of Statistics and Economic Planning explained the importance of statistics and data collection noting that it was a critical component in the island’s future.
“People tend to ask why statistics are important but basically statistics really form the framework for development because they provide information and data on which to plan and without information and you really truly can’t plan properly. So it’s just about information.
“Collecting data in a systematic manner and especially as the region is moving towards integration and the CSME it is extremely important for us to have coordinated and harmonised schemes of statistics, reliable statistics, reliable data so that it’s timely that we can plan properly and plan for the future of the island and the people of Nevis,” she said.
According to Ms Herbert, the week will commence with the official opening on Monday 5th December at the Department of Statistics and Economic Planning on Main Street in Charlestown at 10am. On Tuesday 6th they will be a part of VON Radio’s Let’s Talk programme at 8pm under the week’s theme. Panellists will include local consultant Mr Hensley Daniel, Mr Peter Adrien an advisor to the Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and herself.
On Wednesday December 7th will be a lecture to 5th and 6th Forms at the Methodist Conference Room at 1pm. It will be facilitated by the staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade from St. Kitts.
On Thursday December 8th will be an open day and exhibition at the Charlestown office from 12pm and on Friday December 9th the week will culminate with a seminar at 9am at the Four Seasons Resort and a panel Discussion at 7:30pm at the Red Cross Building in Charlestown.
She said the panel discussion would address issues of the CSME and how it will impact the general public. Facilitators will include representatives from the United Nations Development Programme, the Organisation for East Caribbean States, the ECCB and the UWI Mona, Jamaica.
Schools
in Concert – A Cultural Explosion
Charlestown Nevis (November 25, 2005) It was an evening filled with cultural blessing as Nevisians and residents alike poured out their talent of richness in music, drama and dance, at the Schools in Concert held at the Cultural Complex in Charlestown.
The event which was held on Wednesday November 23 and featured all the primary and secondary schools on the island saw the students ranging from ages 5 to 16 entertaining a packed but appreciative audience.
The unexpected exhibition of talent left the audience which included senior civil servants, Principal Education Officer, Mrs. Jennifer Hodge and other education officials asking for more.
Sponsored by the Education Department in the Nevis Island Administration, the concert is in its 21st year and was held under the theme “A Caribbean Cultural Revue”. It provided the audience with a framework of the different types of culture that is embedded within the society.
Mrs. Hodge gave brief remarks as she welcomed all to the event. She noted that it was her distinct pleasure to extend warm welcome and most of all to pay special acknowledgement to the Patron Mrs. Marcella Jones.
She observed that it was her delight that all the schools were participating in the event and that the Education Department not only strived for academic excellence, but also other areas of development.
In highlighting the cultural heritage of each island, the Lyn Jeffers School portrayed Antigua singing the National Anthem and a medley of songs. The St. James Primary School did a dramatic presentation of Barbados where they highlighted several historical sites and the national dish of Barbados.
While Belle Vue International portrayed Dominica in poetry, St. Thomas’ Primary portrayed Dominican Republic in a meringue, and Gingerland Primary dramatized a Taste of Guyana, the audience displayed its appreciation to the Special Education Unit who did a drama of Symbols of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and danced to the tune of ‘I Need An Angel.”
The other schools, Ivor Walters Primary portrayed Jamaica, St. Johns Primary - St. Lucia, VONJ Primary - Puerto Rico, Charlestown Preparatory - Trinidad and the other school which came in for high praise was the Charlestown Primary who dramatized the distinct difference of the twin islands of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Education Officer, Mr. Lanny Dore who serenaded the Patron before presenting her with a bouquet of flower was joined by Mrs. Jones as they sang “I Did It My Way”.
Awardees and
Prize Winners at the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) 17th
Commencement Ceremony on Tuesday 22nd November 2005
BASSETERRE,
ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 24TH 2005 (CUOPM)
The
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant Award for Excellence in Academic Performance,
Extra-Curricular Activities and Exemplary Conduct – Mr. Lester Morris
The Construction Technologies Ltd. Management of Business Award – Mr. Elton Bradley
The Delores Ward Memorial Prize for Literatures in English – Ms. Terrelah Byron
The Kelsick, Wilkin & Ferdinand Award for Best Results in Law – Ms. Ivorica Hanley
The Mathematics Lecturer’s Award – Mr. Damian Browne
The Ross University Natural Sciences Award – Mr. Trevor Orchard
The St. Kitts-Nevis Economic Society Award for Best Results in Economics- Ms. Jaresa Morris
The Alliance Francaise Award for Best Results in French – Ms. Nesha David
The Venezuelan Institute Award for Best Results in Spanish – Ms. Davina Broadbelt
The Malika Spencer Memorial Award for the Most Outstanding Student in Information Technology from the Division of Arts, Sciences and General Studies – Ms. Seymona Hutton
The Dr. Joseph Christmas Award for Best Performance in the Associate Degree in General Nursing – Ms. Jo-Ann Charles
The Dr. Cameron Wilkinson Award for First Runner-Up in the Associate Degree in General Nursing – Ms. Chandreka Persuad
The St. Kitts Nurses Association Award for Second Runner-Up in the Associate Degree in General Nursing – Ms. Nydia Wharton and Ms. Shirmel Browne
The
Sir Cuthbert Sebastian Award for the Most Outstanding Midwifery Student –
Ms. Moricia Hughes
The Dr. Derek Jeffers Award for First Runner-Up in the Midwifery Programme – Ms. Sandrine Phipps
The Dr. Steve Claxton Award for the Second Runner-up in the Midwifery Programme – Mrs. Deslyn Tyson-Whyte
The J. Obadiah Williams Award for Best Results - Associate Degree in Education – Mr. Lester Morris
The St. Kitts-Nevis Bar Association Secondary Teacher Education Award (to be announced)
The Dr. Lincoln Carty Award for Excellence in Science Teaching – Ms. Tamara Browne
Runners-Up – Ms. Donace Wilkinson and Ms. Marcia Jeffers
The Dulcie Richardson Teacher Education Award for Best Performance by a Female – (to be announced)
The Returning Nationals Association Teacher Education Award for Best Performance by a Male – Mr. Lester Morris
The Dr. Bronte Gonsalves Teacher Education Award – Ms. Philicia Walters
The A de B Consultants Construction Technology Award – Mr. Dorson Bergan
The Peter H.L. Huggins Engineering Award – Ms. Nashorn Maynard
Runner-Up – Mr. Donville Eddy
The Lorna Edwards/National & Administrative Secretaries & Administrative Professionals of St. Kitts-Nevis Award – Ms. Venisha Pringle
The Evan Berry Memorial Award for the Best Student in Information Technology from the Division of Technical and Vocational Education and Management Studies – Mr. Jeffrey Berry
The Nathaniel-John Hospitality & Business Studies Department Award for the Most Outstanding Hospitality Studies Student – Ms. Linda Ward
The Nathaniel-John Hospitality & Business Studies Department Award for the Most Outstanding Culinary Arts Student – Ms. Minerva Gaskin
The St. Kitts Tourism Authority Award for the Most Improved Culinary Arts Student – Ms. Margaret Codrington
The Frigate Bay Beach Resort Award for Industry and Professional Attitude – Ms. Isis Francis
The Dr. Clayton Heyliger Award for the Best Advanced Level Results - ACE – Ms. Patricia Herbert
The Amelia Stephens Award for the Best Ordinary Level Results ACE – Mrs. Sheila Warner
St.
Kitts and Nevis represented at Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, NOVEMBER 21ST 2005 (CUOPM) – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis will be represented by a three-man delegation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta.
The Meeting from November 25th to 27th will be declared open on Friday by Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second.
The other members of Prime Minister Douglas’ delegation are Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, Industry and Commerce, Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris and London-based High Commissioner His Excellency Mr. James Williams.
Discussions on matters affecting Small Island Developing States, Promotion of the Commonwealth’s Fundamental Political Values, the Report of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group on the Harare Declaration and the outcomes of the United Nations 2005 World Summit are on the agenda.
Commonwealth leaders will also discuss the special theme: “Networking the Commonwealth for Development.”
Commonwealth Heads of Government - for the most part, Presidents and Prime Ministers - meet every two years for a few days to discuss world and Commonwealth issues, and to agree collective policies and initiatives. These summits provide a unique forum for consultation at the highest level of government.
To encourage frank exchanges of views, every effort is made to promote an informal atmosphere. After a public opening session, discussions are held in camera, the number of advisers restricted and written speeches discouraged. No votes are taken; decisions are normally reached by consensus. Each meeting includes a ‘Retreat’ when Commonwealth leaders, unaccompanied by other ministers or officials, have complete privacy.
Many important initiatives have emerged from these Retreats. Commonwealth leaders have met regularly for more than a century - although as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (or CHOGM) only since 1971 in Singapore.
The first meetings, known as Colonial Conferences, began in 1887. In 1911, these were replaced by Imperial Conferences, held regularly until 1937. Between 1944 and the early 1960s, Commonwealth Prime Ministers Meetings were held almost annually in London.
At Singapore, in 1971, the term Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting was adopted to encom