April 2011 The and High Commission Official Newsletter

A newsletter produced by the High Commission for nationals and friends of Antigua and Barbuda Issue 142 Barbuda to name beach after late Princess

“Each here on their honeymoon that would be an added incentive. It would add the kind of prestige Endeavouring we are hoping to generate to all this project.‖

Achieving” The British media reported this week that the Middleton family has been in ―discreet talks‖ with a resort on Barbu- Inside this issue: da. Lighthouse Bay Resort, located on a private peninsular New Airport Termi- 3 with acres of deserted beach, nal at Coolidge is understood to be the prop- erty of interest. It is accessible only via helicopter or boat. A Cricket Partner- 5 CODRINGTON, Barbuda, Barbuda has had the royal ship with Essex and seal of approval, as the K Antigua and Barbuda Wednesday April 6, 2011 – Club there was a favourite "It is a beautiful part of the holiday escape of the late world and has some very From 1st January 9 Officials on Antigua’s sis- Princess and a young happy memories for William 2012 Old Style ter isle are in the process Prince William and Harry. Passport no longer but most importantly for of naming a stretch of him and Kate, it is strictly beach after the late Prin- off limits to non-guests," a Antigua and cess Diana, as speculation ―We have had consulta- Middleton family friend told 10 tions on the matter and we Barbuda Census 2011 increases about where a British paper on Sunday. the elder of her two are working on naming the

sons, Prince William, and beach along the K Club, in his bride-to-be Kate Mid- honour of Princess Diana,‖ The ceremony to mark the New Lighting for 15 dleton will choose to Barbuda Council Chairman occasion is scheduled for Barbuda Airport honeymoon. Kelvin Punter said. ―If the July 1, which would have royal couple were to visit th been Diana’s 50 birthday. Royal Wedding….Friday 29th April 2011

Her Excellency Dame Louise Lake Tack, GCMG, Governor General, His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts and Mrs Pauline Roberts were among the 1,900 guests who watched Prince William and Catherine Middleton exchange vows at Westminster Abbey Fri- day, 29th April. Following the ceremony, Dame Louise was among six hundred special guests of honour to attend a special reception at Bucking- ham Palace, hosted by Her Majesty the Queen and Prince Phillip in honour of the newlyweds while members of the Diplomatic Corps to include His Excellency the High Commissioner and Mrs Roberts attended the reception at Lancaster House which was hosted by The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs the Right Honourable William Hague and Mrs Hague. 2

High Commissioner’s Message

terms as migration and emigra- international migrants was esti- tion. No doubt each of my read- mated at 214 million in 2010. ers realizes immediately why I This phenomenon is driven by am using the first word in this characteristics in the environ- message. Migration refers to the ment from which individuals de- relocation of citizens of one part or those in the environment country to reside in another for to which individuals move. It may long periods. A very good exam- be initiated by events such as ple of the above is the mass mi- war, natural or non-made disas- gration from the West Indies in ters, persecutions (real or per- the 1950s and 1960s. Now many ceived) or simply motivated by generations later there are many search for greener pastures. descendents of these early mi- grants making the journey home- ward to the Caribbean to retire. In the earlier part of my message Migration: A good or I have already alluded to one of the benefits associated with Mi- bad thing? In the second of three reports gration: i.e., the repatriation of produced by the Ramphal Com- hard earned foreign exchange to mission on Migration and Devel- developing countries by their As someone growing up in the opment various aspects of this citizens living in the more devel- Caribbean in the 1950s it was movement of people in today’s oped countries. not uncommon to be reminded Commonwealth are examined. that some members of the family The second report is prepared (close or extended) had gone to by Professor Elizabeth Thomas- In this first of my series of arti- live in the UK, USA or Canada. Hope of the University of the cles I propose to look at the is- Not that a few of our family West Indies, Mona. The report sue of Migration from the van- members did not leave Antigua was published in May 2011 and tage point of foreign exchange and Barbuda to live elsewhere in has as its focus ―action to re- earning, that is the repatriation the Region. This, however was connect historical links‖. of funds from the country of res- not as prevalent. idence by the migrant to the

country of his birth. In some in- Although, I cite this report here, stances this fund is used to sup- It was a much anticipated joy es- the main focus of this message is port members of the migrant’s pecially at Christmas time to to initiate worthwhile discussion family at home to maintain a look forward to that gift from on the subject highlighting the standard of living above subsist- ―overseas‖ or that letter which issues, benefits and associated ence. In others articles I will deal brought such relief to the tight risks. Each of these can be ex- with the Brain Drain, the 3 T’s of budgets of many struggling panded to produce a series of Migration, Risk Mitigation, Hu- households. articles over time. man Rights balancing and a few others. It was not until I was somewhat According to the International older and going to secondary Organisation for Migration’s ******* school that I encountered such World Report’ the number of

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 3 His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts attends Commonwealth Day Ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Monday 14th March 2011 Commonwealth Day: “Women as Agents of Change”

His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts and Mrs Roberts attended the Commonwealth Day Service at

Westminster Abbey

Seen above H. E. Dr Carl Roberts, High Commissioner and Miss on Monday 14th Ayanna George, Flagbearer on Commonwealth Day March 2011.

New Airport Terminal at work with the government of ―As you stated, your idea is to Coolidge Antigua and Barbuda on this very deliver and to deliver on important project and will live up time. We have seen your work to the standards expected of a and dedication in working with the ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – April modern airport facility. The people of Antigua and Barbuda 15, 2011……….Chairman of the CCECC constructed the Sir Vivian with the cricket stadium. And we China Civil Engineering and Richards Cricket Stadium for the are pleased with the outcome of Construction Company CCECC 2007 World Cup. that venture. We have no doubt Mr. Liu Zhiming has pledged his that you will work with us as we company’s intention to produce a “New Airport undertake this project.‖ new airport terminal at the V.C. Terminal at Coolidge” Bird International Airport of good The country’s leader also pointed quality and deliver to the out that his government wants the government and people of Antigua Prime Minister Spencer during the project to be undertaken in a discussions said that his manner in which the people of and Barbuda on-time. government is delighted to have Antigua and Barbuda and the the delegation in Antigua and construction company can work The CCECC delegation lead by Barbuda to sign the framework together to see it to completion. Mr. Liu Zhiming held a special agreement for the construction of meeting with Prime Minister the the new terminal building which he ―We look forward to further Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer, views as an important cooperation. The objective is to Tourism Minister the Hon. John developmental project for the enhance the airport to make it Maginley, Ambassador David country. modern and one that also Shoul, Chairman of the Antigua represents an injection of capital and Barbuda Airport Authority Mr. ―Antigua and Barbuda is heavily into the economy which is very Gatesworth James, Architectural dependent on tourism and as such important at this stage,‖ outlined Consultant to the Airport it is important for us to ensure PM Spencer. Authority Mr. Johann Hesse and that the gateway is welcoming and Engineer Consultant to the convey a positive first impression It is anticipated that construction Airport Authority Mr. Bernard T. to lure tourists back to our work on the new facility will nation. It gives us the opportunity commence before the third Lewis. to expand our reach and quarter of the year. encourage other airlines to come to Antigua because of the facilities CCECC www.antigua Chairman- barbuda.com Liu Zhiming : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow***** said that his company is pleased to we have,‖ said PM Spencer. 4 Antigua and Barbuda honours Sixty Years of Service To Tourism

Madeline Blackman and Dr. a result of his expertise he was Werner Giersch. In addition to invited to take up the position their diplomatic roles, the two of Honorary Consul and Direc- also functioned as tourism di- tor of Tourism in Germany; the rectors for their respective mar- position he held for 23 years. kets. Dr. Giersch and his small team in the German Office worked tirelessly to promote Antigua Miss Madeline Blackman began and Barbuda in Germany and her distinguished career work- throughout Northern and East- ing for the Antigua Tourist ern Europe. Board at 18 years of age. In 1977 she left Antigua and went to Canada to work at the Anti- The Prime Minister in address- gua & Barbuda Tourist office. ing the gathering commended While in Canada Miss Blackman both public servants, "They are earned a degree in Communica- perfect examples of what dedi- Earlier this year, Prime Minis- tion Arts from Sinclair College cation, hard work and commit- ter of Antigua and Barbuda, Dr. and rose through the ranks until ment are all about. And whether The Honourable Baldwin Spen- her retirement after 43 years of they are retired or not they will cer hosted a cocktail reception public service. Miss Blackman is always make significant contribu- in honour of two senior mem- a highly respected figure in dip- tions to the service of people." lomatic and tourism related cir- bers of the diplomatic service who recently retired, Miss cles. Mr. Colin James, CEO of Anti- Madeline Blackman; Consul gua and Barbuda Tourism Au- General to Canada and Dr. "She is described as the con- thority expressed his gratitude Werner Giersch, Honorary summate public servant who to Miss Blackman and Dr. Consul to Germany. commands the respect and ad- Giersch for their work in the miration of her peers. A perfect area of tourism. "It is important example of the traditional values to recognize the efforts and of honesty, fairness and commit- achievements of those who ment to the work of Govern- went before us. It is the hard ment" said the Prime Minister. work and diligence of people like Madeline Blackman and Werner Giersch that has helped to build our tourism industry to the level that it is today. They set the standard and we applaud them for their efforts." Government Ministers, mem- bers of the diplomatic service, permanent secretaries, repre- sentatives from the ministries of Foreign Affairs and Tourism and Dr. Werner Giersch came to other tourism stakeholders Antigua and Barbuda in the late gathered at the Prime Minister's '70s to work as a consultant on Office on Thursday 3rd Febru- an OECS tourism related pro- ary 2011 to pay tribute to the ject for the European Union. As two retired diplomats; Miss

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Antigua and Barbuda High Commission, 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP

“Cricket Partnership with Essex”

Director of Tourism for the UK & Europe, Hilary Modeste and David East, Chief Executive of Essex County Cricket Club sign agreement on 6th April

As a major sponsor of the Essex aim is to ingrain ourselves into borne, during a media day this County Cricket Club, Antigua the minds of individuals in the week. and Barbuda will receive a high county. level of brand exposure when The photo appeared in the thousands of spectators attend ―National television coverage sports section of the East An- matches during the cricket sea- will also allow us to get inside glian Daily Times with the cap- son and for the remainder of homes of sports lovers through- tion promoting the sunny island 2011. out the UK, and deliver our destination f Antigua and Bar-

message to persons in the buda as an alternative to the Boundary advertising boards in household. We want to become grey skies in Essex. prime TV spots, posters their first choice when consider- throughout the grounds, strong ing a holiday abroad." Cricket fans will learn more web presence and ―Antigua about Antigua and Barbuda Days‖ at matches, are compo- Modeste added that, Antigua when the full colour advertising

nents of the extensive coverage and Barbuda being associated boards are unveiled at the barbuda.com - package that have been agreed. with one of the leading county grounds for the start of the clubs in the UK was a feat that cricket season. The season The UK & Europe Director of would not go unnoticed. starts April 8. Tourism said: ―The UK team is always looking for new and inno- He said: ―We are already re- James Foster, Captain of the vative ways of proactively pro- ceiving publicity from our asso- Essex Cricket team said: ―In moting Antigua and Barbuda, www.antigua ciation with the team.‖ 2010, we were fortunate to that will reap tangible returns on play in front of packed crowds our investment. Players of the Essex 1st team wherever we played our crick- squad that include famous and et in Essex. The atmosphere "We are capitalizing on our his- talented England players Ashes that is generated at our one- toric ties with cricket to raise hero Alastair Cook and Essex day games, especially Twenty20 our profile in the Essex commu- Cricket Captain James Foster, is second to none.‖ nity and the wider UK. With posed with Modeste and mar- our office based in Essex, our keting manager Cherrie Os-

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time give them a reason to come back and also to have a taste of Barbuda Moons Packages will the fruit from the tree they plant- be co-ordinated by the Tourism ed,‖ Committee of the Barbuda Dorcas Beazer-Williams said. Council and will offer options ―We will actually label and date for air or sea transfers from the trees so that we will know Antigua, accommodations, who planted what tree.‖ tours and entertainment for day trips or longer stays. Barbuda Council’s Com- mittee for Tourism Devel- The Tourism Committee chair- In addition to traditional wed- ops New Program…… person said there would be a ding and honeymoon packages, variety of packages from which couples can select Day moons, couples could select. These Baby moons, After moons or 29th April ….. A new tourism would include Day Moons, Baby Full moons, a suite of romance initiative, Barbuda Moons Ro- Moons, After Moons or Full packages designed to meet the mance package, which offers op- Moons. However, she said the diverse lifestyles of today’s portunities for engagements, packages remain works in pro- modern couples. weddings, honeymoons, renewals gress. ―We are in the process of

and other celebrations of com- fine-tuning those different pack- mitment for couples, will be ages, because we just wanted to There is no residency require- launched on May 12. The concept offer different options according ment for couples who wish to was developed by Barbuda Coun- to the needs of the individual wed in either Antigua or Barbu- cil’s Committee for Tourism in couple,‖ Beazer-Williams said. da and the process can be ex- collaboration with the Antigua pedited to accommodate elop-

and Barbuda Tourism Depart- ers or short trips. ment in New York. She indicated that it was the first project planned under her leadership and the goal is to The 62 sq mile island has a pop- Dorcas Beazer-Williams, chair of complete it in time for the nam- ulation of 1,500 residents and is the Tourism Committee, said ing of the Princess Diana Beach accessed via Antigua’s interna- Martello Tower, a former de- on July 1. The Princes Diana tional airport located 25 miles fence fort built in the 19th centu- Beach will be one of the main away. Visitors can get to Bar- ry, would be developed as a sea- attractions of the romance buda via helicopter, chartered side garden venue for weddings, package. Other attractions will or scheduled plane service, commitment ceremonies or re- be the caves at Two Foot Bay, yacht, speed boat, or ferry. newals. ―The highlight of this gar- the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, and

den is to have each couple plant a fresh seafood, including the fruit tree to encourage longevity spiny lobster, conch and local ******** of relationships and at the same game such as venison.

27th April 2011 … Students invited to participate in Annual FCCA Foundation Essay Contest

Primary and Secondary school students in Antigua and Barbuda are invited to share their thoughts on the tour- ism industry and showcase their creative writing skills, for a chance to win the 2011 Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Children's Essay Contest.

The Ministry of Tourism is an active participant of the annual FCCA Children's Essay (tourism) Contest. The contest which is endorsed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), represents that organization's (FCCA) on-going support for Caribbean Tourism.

This year's topic is "What Does Sustainable Tourism Mean To Your Destination?" to be written in English with 500-750 words in length. Entries should be forwarded to The Ministry of Tourism, Attention Cynthia G Simon, no later than Monday, 13th June (2011).

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 7 Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua’s Youths make a difference…

A group of vibrant young men and women have taken the task to lead Youth on the Move (YOM) for 2011. The 2011 executive council of YOM currently comprises of President Elijah James, Vice President Annie Jno-Baptiste, Treasurer Su- mita Jeremy, Secretary General Tiffany Providence and Public Relations Office Melville Greene. The core values of YOM which the new executive will be guided by can be derived from the following motto, vision & mission statements of YOM.

“Two Preschools in Two more Pre-schools Tomlinson and Five Two more government pre-schools are in the pipeline for the Tomlinson’s and Gray’s Farm Islands being built communities. This is according to Minister of Education Jacqui Quinn-Leandro, who recently said this is being done to ensure that children of ―less fortunate‖ homes have proper education- for less fortunate al foundations. children”

―Those are two largely built-up communities where there are large pockets of single-parent households where people are basically working for the minimum wage and they cannot afford those foundation years and we want to make sure that we look after preschoolers,‖ Dr Quinn- Leandro said recently. The Caribbean Development Bank is expected to fund the construction of the project at Tomlinson’s, which will not only house an early childhood unit, but will also include a secondary school and a measurement and evaluation unit. Dr Quinn-Leandro said in addition to the secondary school at Tomlinson’s, another community, Five Islands, is expected to benefit from a similar school being built to cater to the children in that area

Hon Dr Jacqui Quinn- Minister of Education, Sports, Youth & Gender Affairs Hon. Dr. Jacqui Quinn Leandro sent a let- Leandro, Minister of ter of congratulations to Ms. Dorcas Beazer-Williams on her victory in the recently held Barbuda Education, Sports, Local Government Elections.

In the letter, first woman elected to Parliament in Antigua and Barbuda wrote, ―Your achievement is well deserved and signals to the nation that women can and do make a difference in the socio-political life of our nation. Your election speaks volumes for women and girls across Antigua and Barbuda as we continue to struggle to increase the number of women in elective political positions alongside our men in a more equitable manner.‖

Dr. Quinn Leandro further stated, ―Your achievement is well deserved and signals to the nation that women can and do make a difference in the socio-political life of our nation. Your election speaks volumes for women and girls across Anti- gua and Barbuda as we continue to struggle to increase the number of women in elective political positions alongside our men in a more equitable manner.‖

Councilwoman Beazer-Williams whose portfolio also includes education intimated to Minister Quinn Leandro that very soon it would be necessary for them to collaborate on issues affecting education in Antigua and Barbuda.

2011 EDUCATION has been observed for the The week of activities con- tenth consecutive year. WEEK - cluded on 19th February celebrated from 10 – 19 2011 with the Education FEBRUARY 2011 … The activities to mark the Awards Ceremony at the week of celebrations was launched on 10th February Precision Centre, located at Under the theme ―Exploring during a ceremony at the the back of GiGi Industries, Creative Ways to Enhancing Nurses’ Association Head- off Sir Sydney Walling High- Student Learning,‖ the Minis- quarters, Queen Elizabeth way . try of Education hosted a Highway, and was followed week of activities to mark by an Infant Fair at the Dean- ***** Education Week 2011, which ery Grounds.

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OBSERVER CARIBBEAN IS IN THE PLANNING STAGE…

General Manager of the OBSERVER Media Group, Julian Rogers, said the company is poised to begin taking the first steps in filling the void left by last Friday’s shutdown of BBC Caribbean. In an interview, Rogers made clear that OB- SERVER Caribbean, as the group’s regional outreach is to be named, will not be looking to go it alone. Rather, he ex- plained, it would be seeking to build on existing partnerships and forge new ones in the other territories. But he said something definite should take shape not long from now. ―I think we have an opportunity to do something in response to the closure of BBC Caribbean from the point of view of extending our programme to direct coverage in a select number of territories. We can start with that, first of all.‖ Rogers said OBSERVER also has ―the ability to work on creating a regional news ser- vice,‖ but noted that ―it requires the co-operation of a number of interests and it also requires some investment‖ – two things that OBSERVER is working on. But, he add- ed, the company hopes to ―be in a position to announce a definitive programme very soon.‖ Rogers admitted that fund- ing for such a venture is likely to be a major challenge. But he is confident that advertisers will come on board when they realise the value of such a programme. ―I think we have to work smart,‖ he said. ―We have to work with the nucleus of people that we do have. We have to work with the partners that we can build across the region to keep our costs of operation to the minimum. From an advertising point of view, you have to deliver an audience before an advertiser will put dollars on the table.‖

vealed after a meeting in Barba- with both hands,‖ the trade dos recently, which involved union leader said. ―But there the airline’s Board of Directors, are limits in terms of what we and unions representing the can do. Survivability of the air- employees, that they had line has always been a central reached consensus on the mat- question anytime you talk ter. about LIAT and it is even more so now given the very difficult financial and economic situation ―The meeting concluded with a that we face within the region.‖ broad realization that it ap- Humphreys said that while the LIAT CLOSING CITY pears that the closure of these unions regretted the decision offices is inevitable,‖ he said in to lay off the workers, they TICKETING OFFICES… an interview with the Caribbe- would ensure that the airline, an Media Corporation (CMC), whose three main shareholder Workers at LIAT’s ticketing adding that LIAT had indicated governments are – , office in Antigua and Barbuda that given its overall perfor- Antigua and Barbuda and St. will be among dozens across mance, the restructuring was Vincent & the Grenadines – the region out of work soon, urgent. Humphrey, who is also would adhere to best practices now that the unions have president of the Caribbean as they negotiate severance agreed with the airline’s man- Congress of Labour, said the packages. The company has agement that staff cuts cannot aim now is to ensure that the already begun closing its city be avoided. The employees affected workers get a fair deal. offices, beginning with the Port here will be sent home within of Spain, Trinidad office in Janu-

the next few weeks. The plan ary. ―What we have to ensure as by LIAT to close all its city of- fices across the region as part trade unions is that the process of a move to save EC$3 million is fair, is transparent, is objec- annually, had initially been op- tive, and that we can cushion the effects for the workers. posed by the workers’ bargain- ing agents. However, Head of That’s our responsibility and I

the Council of LIAT Trade Un- can tell you that we are grasp- ions Chester Humphrey re- ing that responsibility firmly

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ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA BAGS FIVE OLYMPICS SCHOLARSHIPS…Five Antigua and Barbuda elite athletes have secured Olympic Solidarity's Olympic Scholarships for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, England. The President of the NOC, Senator Paul Chet Greene and Secre- tary General, Mr. Cliff Williams negotiated the scholarships during a meeting with the IOC in Acapulco, Mexico just over a month ago. The five athletes, Brendan Christian, James Grayham, Jyme Bridges, Orel Jeffery and Emily Ward are drawn from the sports of Swimming, Cycling, Equestrian and Athletics. The scholarship awards will allow the athletes to train and compete in qualifying events leading up to the Olympic games in London during the summer of 2012. “We submitted eight names to the IOC for consider- ation and received confirmation of five for the Olympic scholarships”, Secretary General of the NOC, Cliff Wil- liams reported with obvious satisfaction. “Given the fact that these scholarships form a part of a global pro- gramme, we are more than pleased that we secured such a high percentage among the 204 countries that make up the IOC. It is now up to the athletes to show commitment and dedication to advancing their own ca- reers and to representing Antigua and Barbuda,” Williams concluded. The scholarships become effective January 1, 2011 and will run until August 2012. The IOC has recom- mended that national Triple Jumper James Grayham pursue his scholarship at the High Performance Centre in Cuba. Brendan Christian is recommended to the Centre in ; Emily Ward will continue to train in Europe where she is based, while Jyme Bridges and Orel Jeffery scholarship awardees in the sport of Cycling and Swim- ming will be determined by the NOC. The NOC commits to funding the preparation of the unsuccessful appli- cants and to increase activity for the nations elite athletes in a quest to qualify more athletes for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games.

are therefore being advised to He further advised that those apply for the new machine- affected need not make a run NON MACHINE - readable passports in the up- on the office. ―We’re giving READABLE PASSPORTS coming months. Minister of Na- everybody a whole year to OUT-OF-DATE BY THE tional Security and Labour Sen- make that conversion. I don’t END OF 2011… ator Dr Errol Cort made this want them all to just come in a disclosure during his presenta- sudden flow. Take your time, tion on the 2011 Budget De- but you have a year to come bate in the Upper House, saying and deal with your machine- that continued use of the out- readable passport and bring dated passports is now a securi- your documents so that we can ty concern. verify and ensure that you are the proper recipient,‖ Dr Cort

said. ―We’ve since moved to a ma- chine-readable passport,‖ Dr Cort said. ―We still have some The minister also told the Sen- ordinary passports out there ate that since the Passport Of- being used by individuals, so I fice became fully computerised want to say, Madam President, in 2007, all necessary docu- that we’re allowing those indi- ments required to accompany viduals up to December of 2011 new passport applications are Shown Above: New Style to come in and convert their scanned and stored in the sys- Antigua and Barbuda Passport old passports into machine tem’s database for future refer- readable passports. After De- ence. All citizens who currently use cember of 2011, you will not be

the older version of Antigua able to use the ordinary pass- and Barbuda passports have ports for travelling because it ******* been put on notice that the presents a security risk.‖ travel document will become out-of-date by year-end, and

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 10 Pensioners Certificates Now Due At Treasury Department

The Treasury Department wishes to notify the General Public that Pensioners’ Life Certificates are now due for the period May to October 2011.

Persons who do not submit their Life Certificates before June 2011 are likely to have their pensions dis- continued.

Pensioners are also asked to take note of the persons who are authorized to certify the Life Certificates: Lawyers Notaries Public Permanent Secretaries and Senior Civil Servants Parliamentary Representatives Medical Doctors Ministers of Religion Justices of the Peace Bank Managers

Pensioners living in Barbuda are asked to take note that Life Certificates can be collected at the Council Office. encourage citizens, residents 400 temporary jobs will be cre- and visitors to lend their full ated to aid in the successful exe- support and co-operation to cution of the Census. An esti- this most important undertak- mated EC $2 million will be ing. spent on the Census.

According to Prime Minister Dr. The Census Office continues to the Hon. Baldwin Spencer, the accept applications from persons country is changing rapidly and wishing to be employed as enu- the information that will be merators, supervisors, liaison Census 2011 gathered from the Census will officers, data editors and coders. form the basis for the develop- The count down is on to the ment of our people, our institu- Although the actual date for the biggest statistical event that a tions and our infrastructure. He Census is May 27th 2011, it country can undertake, Census adds that "so much has hap- Day, May 27th 2011 in Antigua pened since the last census in could take about six to eight and Barbuda. 2001 and as such, the census weeks to complete. The slogan will provide a comprehensive for the 2011 Population and At the recently held official picture of the social and living launch of the 2011 Population conditions of our people, only a Housing Census is 'Co-operate! and Housing Census, residents census can provide such com- Participate! Make Census 2011 were updated on the status of plete data." Great'. the Census activities and sensi- tized about the importance Prime Minister Spencer also as- Training for Census Enumerators be- and benefits of the Census to sured non-nationals living in An- gins on Monday May 9th. Names of the socio-economic develop- tigua and Barbuda that, "no one ment in Antigua and Barbuda will be jeopardized from their persons who have been selected for and to the wider sub-region. participation in the census". training can be seen on the Govern- ment Information Service (GIS) TV The occasion was also used to It is expected that more than channel. 11

Antigua’s Groovy So- have contributed to the develop- the award, CP’s contribution to ment of calypso, chutney, zouk soca has not gone unnoticed. Be- ca Queen and soca artforms. Spanning a pe- tween her music and volunteer Claudette “CP” riod of over 30 years, CP joins a work, especially with children, she Peters will be sorority of performers who in- continues to improve her craft. In clude Singing Sandra, Calypso fact, the soca queen reveals that honoured Rose, Denise Belfon, Fay Ann Ly- she has undergone a personal pro- ons, , Posthumous cess of rebranding and is preparing Onika Bostic from Trinidad; to offer her fans, not only a new Ophelia from Dominica; Lady Leen range of music, but a new look. and Nicole David from St. Lucia; Alison Hinds and TC from Barba- As she prepares for the 2011 Car- dos, and also Queen Ivena from nival season with the vision of her Antigua. management company Team Ma- The IGDS: NBU continues to play chine, she has every intention to Antigua’s Groovy Soca Queen its part in developing programmes defend her groovy title and re- Claudette ―CP‖ Peters will be which create linkages between the honoured later this year for her academic mandate of the Universi- claim her party monarch crown, contribution to Caribbean music. ty of the West Indies and the Car- CP is focused and hitting the stu- As part of the 100th anniversary ibbean Community it serves. To dio harder than ever, and with the of International Women’s Day, the this end the Institute provides and Institute of Gender and Develop- continues to provide a forum for honour of this award she has eve- ment Studies: Nita Barro Unit at the discussion and sharing of infor- ry intention of living up to its sym- the University of the West Indies, mation on all aspects of gender in bolic gesture as she continues to Cave Hill, will be honouring wom- the Caribbean Society including en across the region considered to gender as it relates to culture. contribute to the soca artform be ―Kaiso trailblazers‖. across the Caribbean and the The official award presentation is world. A traditionally male dominated slated to take place on 29th Octo- arena, the award recognises the ber, 2011 in Barbados. accomplishment of women in the English speaking Caribbean who Deeply humbled and honoured by

Big breeze and lumpy seas the Antiguan race course into spiced up the action for the third surf city. The conditions caused day of racing. Twenty knots of several retirements which have breeze, gusting over 25 with meant quite a few changes to seas of up to two meters provid- overall positions of yachts racing ed some seriously feisty condi- at Antigua Sailing Week. Sunday 24th April to tions. It was a wet wild ride up- 18A wild, windy and memorable Friday 29th April 2011 week of racing concluded on 29th April thus bringing and end to the 44th annual Antigua Sail- ing Week. A prize giving cere- 29th April 2011…. mony was held at the Event Vil- lage in Nelson’s Dockyard on Sailors come to Antigua for wind but with a sea temperature Saturday, 30th April. Antigua thrilling, warm, adrenalin- of 25ºC, it was a labour of love. Sailing Week has been blessed pumping sailing and, the hun- with outstanding racing condi- dreds of competitors at Antigua Downwind, those who could tions and beautiful weather. Sailing Week certainly got what stay in control came out on top.

they came for . Big wind and big waves turned

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Bankers Reduce Fees jor step by the banks since outside John revealed that, ―members have of interest payments the commit- not received the details or terms of Off Mortgages ….. ment fee is the only charge the fi- the stimulus package for considera- nancial institutions apply to mort- tion.‖ gages. He said anyone walking into a Commercial banks have knocked off a few bank today for a loan will receive Last week, Minister Lovell thousand dollars in fees the concession. But he stressed that said he still had to speak with the normally associated continuation of the special consider- insurance industry about how they with mortgages as part ation is contingent on the other would contribute to the cause. of their contribution to sectors buying into the stimulus Government was also hoping to government’s stimulus package. further reduce the cost of building package. President of homes by getting banks to drop the Bankers Association, Vere Hill ―It’s about all the service their interest rates for homeowners said nearly half the local banks have providers actually coming together. constructing environmentally friend- waived the one (1) per cent com- We are expecting the architects to mitment fee charged for accessing ly houses. reduce their costs; the vendors to loans, while the rest have cut it by reduce their costs. That was part of half. the agreement of banks coming on ―I don’t think we were real- board the initiative. No point in do- ly convinced there was any big ben- efit they were going to get except ―Bankers met with the Fi- ing a stimulus package if one ele- for driving more use of solar heat- nance Minister a couple of months ment is doing it and the others are ers and green technology. So while ago. But he got the letter with our not,‖ the bankers’ association presi- we support it in principle, we have- agreement a month or so ago. If it is dent added. n’t really examined it. Generally by $300,000 you want to borrow, it our lack of response they realise we would normally be $3,000 commit- Echoing the call of many have not done anything yet. But I ment fee. But in some cases it will other sector heads, Hill said even think we are still within time to do no longer apply and in others it though it is cash-strapped, govern- something,‖ the bankers’ associa- would be $1,500,‖ he said. ment still needs to pitch in with tion president noted. some concessions such as a lower

Hill noted that this is a ma- stamp duty. A check with the Presi- dent of the Bar Association, Kelvin ******

The Vehicles and Road Offenders with a lower tint grade curity vehicles, hearses and the can be fined between $150 to $200, Prime Minister are exempt from the Traffic Amendment Act or face a year in prison or a maxi- tint regulation. mum fine of $5,000. 2011 A meter will be used to determine Leader of Government Business in whether tints comply with the regu- the senate Dr the Hon Errol Cort lations. noted the new measures will assist police officers to carry out their duties. The Act also puts an end to the powers of police to rip off vehicle The Vehicles and Road Traffic tints on the spot. Amendment Act 2011 was passed "The issue really is law enforce- in the Upper House on Monday ment, and allowing them to see 19th April 2011. who are the people driving these “The Vehicles and Road Traffic vehicles that are being used to com- mit serious crimes in this country," (Enforcement and Administration) Tint grades that are allowed under Dr Cort said. Order, 2011, 2011, No.3” the regulation range between 25 Available at the Government Printing and 35 per cent. Emergency vehicles, armoured se- Office, Antigua and Barbuda

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Temporary Restriction sweet pepper, eggplant, tomato, portation of Agricultural goods cucumber, and butternut squash and services into Antigua and Bar- following Bumper during the month of April 2011. buda.

Harvest: 5th April , 2011 Permanent Secretary within the Last year the ministry imported Ministry of Agriculture Sharon approximately 16 million lbs of As part of efforts to promote and Peters says, the Central Marketing vegetables. support locally grown products, Co- operation (CMC), continues there has been a temporary re- to assist farmers to market their striction on the importation li- agricultural produce and import- censes of seven vegetables due to ers desirous of purchasing fresh a surplus in the market. vegetables are asked to liaise with (CMC) to effect such purchase. The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environ- The move comes as the ministry ment has restricted the importa- continues to encourage residents tion of onion, cabbage, carrot, to buy local and reduce the im-

Mango Fest Launched 13th April 2011

The 6th annual Antigua Mango Festival was launched on Wednesday 13th April 2011 at the Heritage Quay bandstand.

The festival will take place from August 13-14 at the Christian Valley Agri- cultural station.

The Ministries of Tourism and Agriculture have both teamed up to promote the event.

-—————————————————————————————————————————————— Buy Local Street Fair, will be held on lower St Mary’s Street on 5th May 2011.

The Buy Local Street Fair, will be held on lower St Mary’s Street on 5th May 2011 The fair will have on display a wide variety of art and craft products. The Cultural Development Division planned the initiative to establish stronger ties with the talented producers of art and craft in Antigua and Barbuda.

Art and craft products on sale include locally made shoes, weaved fabrics, pottery, rat- tan baskets, soaps, jewellery, and body care products.

The theme, ―Buy local means supporting Antigua’s and Barbuda’s local economy." The Ministries of Tourism and Agriculture have both teamed up to promote the event.

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gaming gaming law expert Frank Catania. industry participants on how best Minister Lovell noted that the to utilise the WTO decision to session ―marks a sincere attempt by open up the American domestic the government of Antigua and remote gaming industry to fair Barbuda to reach out to the international competition. International remote gaming community to explore ways in

which our country’s historic victory Key features of the event were at the WTO can be used to open the feature address by Prime the door to fair and responsible The Honourable Harold Lovell, Minister Baldwin Spencer, as well as trade in remote gaming services to Minister of Finance and the opening remarks by Minister Lovell consumers in the United States, as Economy of the Government of and Ambassador Colin Murdoch, the WTO has held we are entitled Antigua and Barbuda announced Permanent Secretary in the Ministry to do.‖ the scheduled commencement on of Finance and Economy. A Wednesday, 27th April 2011 of a significant portion of the session summit was held in Antigua at the was dedicated to panels and ―We are hopeful,‖ the Minister Sandals Grande Resort. The two- presentations by a number of continued, ―that by engaging more day conference is being held under distinguished and expert panelists, with major industry participants the sponsorship of the government including Antigua’s Permanent outside of Antigua we might be able to discuss the current status of the Representative to the United to bring more force to bear on country’s long-standing dispute Nations, John W. Ashe, the what has proven to be very with the United States over Attorney General, Hon. Justin intractible anti-free trade interests remote gaming services at the Simon as well as Mark Mendel, the in the remote gaming space in World Trade Organisation, and to country’s long-time legal advisor on America.‖ forge a concensus among global the WTO matter and American

Antigua-Barbuda Finance and Economy Minister an international treaty" he said. Harold Lovell described the indict- still at odds with US ments as the latest efforts by Washington to shut off competi- The two countries are at logger- over internet gaming. tion in remote gaming in violation heads over the issue of internet of international law. online gaming, with Antigua seeking 23 April, 2011 CaribbeanNewsNow to recover millions of dollars in A CMC report stated that Lovell ST JOHN’S, Antigua -- The Antigua lost revenue based on the WTO said, "I am concerned that at this and Barbuda government has ex- agreements. pressed disappointment at the de- point in time United States author- cision by United States authorities ities continue to prosecute non- to arrest and indict a number of domestic suppliers of remote gam- "The United States, being a very individuals engaged in online inter- ing services in clear contravention heavy user of the WTO rules to its net gaming. of international law.‖ own benefit, simply cannot contin-

ue to prosecute persons for engag- "I am not aware of any other situa- ing in legitimate international com-

tion where a member of the merce," said Antigua's legal counsel World Trade Organisation (WTO) in the WTO matter, Mark Mendel. has subjected persons to criminal

prosecution under circumstances Finance and Economy Minister where the WTO has expressly Harold Lovell ruled that to do so is in breach of * * *

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 15 International Monetary tive growth in 2011 based on debts. The authorities are active- Fund (IMF) some improvement in the tour- ly pursuing negotiations to re- ism sector,‖ said First Deputy solve remaining arrears and GIVES ANTIGUA AND Managing Director and Acting complete the debt restructur- BARBUDA THUMBS Chair John Lipsky. He noted, ing.‖ UP… too, that ―The overall fiscal bal- ance improved significantly as a result of expenditure restraint, Even though the IMF said recent indicators point to moderate interest savings from debt re- structuring and, to some extent, positive growth in 2011, the The Antigua and Barbuda econo- enhanced revenue efforts. Gov- Fund said private and foreign di- my is on the road to recovery, ernment’s efforts at restructur- rect investments remittance flow but still faces several challenges ing its debts have come in for and construction spending are including risks associated with especially high commendation. ―below pre crisis levels.‖ Lipsky rising food and fuel prices. This The restructuring of public ex- also said, ―Continued vigilance is was the prognosis of the Interna- ternal debt exceeded initial ex- necessary as risks remain high, tional Monetary Fund (IMF), as it pectations. The authorities have including those related to in- gave the country thumbs up for secured refinancing of external creasing global food and fuel its economic performance in the public debt with Paris Club cred- prices and the domestic banking Fund’s latest review. That assess- itors on non-concessional terms, sector.‖ ment gives Antigua and Barbuda and have concluded bilateral ne- access to US $10.7 million more gotiations with most of these of the US $128 million approved This brings the number of re- creditors,‖ Lipsky said. under a Stand-By Arrangement views to which the island has (SBA), last June. successfully completed to three ―There has also been compre- under the 36-month SBA. hensive restructuring of domes- ―The Antiguan economy is be- tic debt to statutory bodies and ginning to recover. Recent indi- suppliers, with substantial hair- cators point to moderate posi- cuts on the face value of the * * *

LIGHTING AT BARBUDA’S the same time, they’re making prep- According to the chairman, in addi- AIRPORT NEARS arations for the new lights that have tion to the preparatory work, some been ordered,‖ he said. remedial work on the perimeter COMPLETION… fence will have to be done to return

4th April 2011 … it to an acceptable standard. ―When He said the electrician and plumb- the tractors were doing the resur- ers would be returning on April 9, facing, they had to cut the fence in Chairman for Barbuda Council Kel- when they would be engaged in cut- some places for the heavy-duty vin Punter said lighting which is the ting the trench along the side of the equipment to come in, those have third phase in the renovation of runway into which the cables for to be brought back to standard,‖ he Codrington Airstrip is scheduled to the permanent lighting would be said. be completed by the end of April. laid. Punter said APUA will also be He said the lighting cables have on island from April 9 to supervise been ordered from Puerto Rico and the laying of electricity and water Meanwhile, the chairman is hopeful should arrive on island in two cables. ―You know, there have to that construction of the terminal weeks. He disclosed that tradesmen be authorised electricians and so building, which is the last phase of from Antigua andBarbuda Airport on, so they will be making sure that the renovations, would begin by Authority arrived in Barbuda and everything is in place,‖ Punter said. mid-year. However, he is not sure would be there for a week getting The Council met with representa- how that part will be funded. ―I am things prepared. tives from PDV Caribe who are not sure, but I know that Minister responsible for funding the resur- (Trevor) Walker has met with the facing, as well as the lighting of the Chinese and Ambassador Shoul to ―They’re making sure that the tem- airstrip. put things in place for that aspect of porary lights are still working … at it,‖ he said

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REDJET PROMISES A Speaking to journalists following a flights in December, is being held up by LIAT shareholder meeting in St Vincent officials in Barbados where it is based. US$9.99 AIR FARES… and the Grenadines, Holder said people who think they can offer cheap prod- ucts in the Caribbean ―are just dream- As the entire region waits to hear In a post on the airline’s Facebook page when REDjet airline will get off the ing. on Thursday, co-founder Robbie Burns said the carrier is eager to take to the ground with its promised US $9.99 fares, Antigua-based LIAT seems not to skies but it’s playing the waiting game. be expecting it to stay very long in the ―LIAT could not charge under $10 per air when it eventually takes off. ―People passenger and make it and nobody else who come into this region and think can. So if anybody comes into the re- ―I know lots of people are dying to get that they will run an airline successfully gion – I’m calling no names – and say their hands on low fares and are frus- using jet planes for less than you charge they can run an airline at under US $10 trated. Believe me, the whole airline is for a hot dog on some of the other per person, well ask them to sell you ready and waiting. We are working well carriers are really not serious unless the London Bridge as well,‖ the airline with the ministry here in Barbados they’re not telling us the whole truth,‖ chairman said. to give us our final clearance to start LIAT Chairman Dr Jean Holder said, selling fares, but we don’t know how even as he acknowledged that his air- long this will be,‖ he wrote. line’s fares were high. REDjet, which was officially launched late last year with the hope of starting

HERE ONWARD CHILD Treasury, but into the ACB mainte- The attorney general said he has MAINTENANCE PAYMENTS nance account. already held discussions with admin- WITHOUT TEARS… istrators in the Magistrates’ Court so that those monies that are al-

―The days when mothers would ready in the Consolidated Fund will Mothers who often complain of have to line up at the Treasury and still be paid from the Treasury. He long waits at the Treasury to collect be told there is not sufficient mon- added, though, that the new proce- child maintenance payments will ey there and have to come back dure will go into effect for monies take comfort in the announcement again and suffer that humiliation will now coming in. ―All monies coming in Parliament by Attorney General now be a thing of the past,‖ Simon in now will go into that account at Justin Simon that a maintenance said. ―Because that is an entitle- the bank and it will be paid out by account has been established at An- ment, not a matter that they should way of cheques which will be signed tigua Commercial Bank, so that be subjected to humiliation and ridi- by the magistrate and maintenance maintenance monies, which are paid cule in respect of.‖ officers at the Magistrates’ Court, ‖ into the court will no longer go into Simon said. the Consolidated Fund at the

A wide variety of hotels offer see and do than in Antigua. Swim great value family packages and with stingrays in Antigua, zip family activities in Antigua and Bar- through the rainforest or try wa- ter-sports in Antigua like wind- surfing, kitesurfing, deep-sea fish- ing, sailing in Antigua and scuba- diving. Antigua Summer Gold www.visitantiguabarbuda.com Programme is back! buda, meaning that there is no better and safer place for families FAMILY FRIENDLY, ANTIGUA to enjoy a sunshine holiday and be AND BARBUDA spoilt for choice with so much to

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“Each Endeavouring All Minister Counsellor to ascertain Monday 31st October 2011, Achieving” … ways in which the occasion can be 5.00pm celebrated. Evensong at Westminster Abbey for This year marks the 30th Anniver- Antigua and Barbuda’s Anniversary sary of Independence for Antigua Dates for Diary: of Independence and Barbuda. A series of f activi- Sunday 30th October 2011, ties have been planned. The Ex- Saturday 5th November 2011 3.00pm ecutive of Antigua and Barbuda at 8.00m ABNA Anniversary of Independ- National Association (ABNA) met ence Thanksgiving Service ABNA Anniversary of Independ- with the High Commissioner and ence Dance

Antigua Carnival Danski and Militant out of Trini- Antigua’s Carnival 2011 launched dad & Tobago. will be held from July 23rd to August 2nd.

Between performances there were The launch of Carnival 2011 was energetic dances by the Sunnydale twinned with the culmination of Dancers, Elite Dance Troupe and Antigua Sailing Week on Satur- Dusk Dance Company. day. 30th April 2011

The event featured musical per- formances from a number of local artistes including reigning Groovy Soca Monarch Claudette ―CP‖ Peters.

Also included in the entertain- ment lineup were; Jashan Hughes and the Chezekake Fac- tory, Yoko, Burning Flames,

Antigua Salsa Festival 4th May to 10th May

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 18 GRAY’S HILL RESERVOIR The Prime Minister added that the Gray’s Hill Lower Reservoir began IS UP AND RUNNING… Antigua Public Utilities Authority in 2009 when the People’s Republic (APUA) would continue extending of China agreed to a grant to fund main pipes in a number of commu- the project. The Beijing Construc- 25th March 2011 nities including Herbert’s, Carty’s tion Engineering Group Co Ltd Hill, Paynters and Bath Lodge in the (BCEG) was awarded the contract coming months. ―Work will also to carry out the renovations with Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer said commence on the construction of some technical input provided by the opening of the 1.25 million gal- additional water storage tanks in APUA. APUA said the newly re- lon Gray’s Hill Lower Reservoir will Liberta, Buckley’s, Wallings, Bolans, stored reservoir will be mainly used signal the start of many more water Ffryes and also in Barbuda,‖ Spencer to service the city of St John’s and construction projects in the island. said. its surrounding areas. The most significant of Spencer’s revelations during recent official opening ceremony was that testing The Prime Minister said Barbuda ―This facility will ensure that during would begin in April on the newly will also soon be the beneficiary of a the morning hours when the de- constructed desalination plant on desalination plant to help alleviate mand for more water is high that Ffryes Beach. the water shortage problems on the there will be a uniform flow of the sister island. ―Work on the contain- commodity during that period,‖ erised reverse osmosis plant in Bar- Spencer said. ―We must ensure a ―Testing will commence in two buda will be accelerated shortly and sustainable supply by implementing weeks’ time in the newly construct- is expected to be completed in 12 conservation methods. Water is ed Ffryes Beach reverse osmosis weeks’ time,‖ Spencer said. ―This precious and must be conserved.‖ plant,‖ Spencer said. ―This new facil- new plant will have an installed ca- ity has the capacity to produce pacity to produce 100,000 gallons of 600,000 gallons of potable water potable water per day which will The government in 2009 had esti- per day. When testing is completed, ensure that Barbudans have 24/7 mated that the fund would have this plant will bring relief to the potable water service.‖ cost around $1.3 million and cater southern and south-western por- to between 400 to 1,000 persons. tions of the island during periods of ********* low rainfall.‖ The restoration project on the

LEGAL DISCIPLINARY vin John, Esquire; Nelleen Rogers Murdoch; Hollis Francis, Esquire; COMMITTEE Charissa Roberts-Thomas; and two ESTABLISHED… others who are not lawyers, Rever- end Selina Joseph of the Anglican clergy and Dr Hayden Thomas, for- A disciplinary committee has been mer Ombudsman and current put in place to address the con- discipline of its members, and for member of the industrial court. cerns of persons with complaints incidental and connected purposes. ―We thought it important, lest we against lawyers or members of the ―We have now gone a step further are accused of how can we put the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Associa- to establish the disciplinary commit- guards to guard the guards. It is tion. Attorney General Justin Simon tee in respect of complaints against important that we have some non- revealed the formation of the disci- lawyers by members of the public. lawyers of some repute on that plinary committee during the parlia- It is something that has been long in committee so that members of the mentary budget debate on last coming. It is now established,‖ Si- public can be comfortable and feel week. Simon said the development confident that it will not be lawyers mon said. came as a progression from the Le- protecting lawyers, but they will get gal Professions Act which was justice where they believe that passed in 2008 to provide for the The members of the committee some member of the Bar has done regulation of the legal profession, are: Chairman Sir Clare K Roberts them wrong,‖ Simon said. for the qualification, enrolment and QC; Bar Association President Kel-

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Antigua secures increased well for the twin-island nation. flights from Italy Antigua and Barbuda's Minister of Tourism, John Maginley, said the ―Our main tour operator Press flight will now operate from 4th July Tours is reporting strong forward ST JOHN’S, Antigua to 5th September and then 31st bookings to the destination and Wednesday 6th April, 2011 – October to 19th December 2011. they are confident that with the demand for Antigua and Barbuda holidays remaining high, they will be ―The Italian Market is a very profita- able to sustain the additional lift,‖ ble market for us and this shows increased confidence in our destina- he disclosed. tion from our Italian travel partners. We are pleased with this announce- Vice President of Sales at Blue Pan- ment particularly as we enter the orama Airlines, Remo Della Porta, summer months when we are con- shared the news with the Italian cerned about filling hotel rooms,‖ The strong growth in visitor arrivals travel trade press at the BMT- Na- from Italy has led to charter Blue he said. tional tourism showcase in Naples, Panorama agreeing to extend their Italy following discussions with Modeste and the representative weekly service to the destination. Antigua and Barbuda's UK and Eu- rope Director of Tourism, Hilary from Press Tours. The weekly service from Milan, pre- Modeste, who is now directly re- sponsible for the Italian and German viously scheduled to end in April, Ten agents from the Italian tour markets following structural chang- will now continue into the difficult operator visited Antigua and Barbu- es in the overseas offices, said the da from 11th April to 18th on a summer months and beyond. Italian market has been doing very familiarisation trip.

*******************

GEORGETOWN, , The MOU was signed by acting Technological Research, Infor- CARICOM Secretary-General Am- mation and Communication Tech- Friday April 8, 2011 – bassador Lolita Applewhaite and nology for Development and Ambassador Paolo Serpi of Italy at Health. the CARICOM Secretariat in Guy- The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Italy have signed ana. A Management Committee com- posed of representatives from both ―The MOU is intended to develop CARICOM and Italy will oversee the human resources of analysis, revision and follow-up of CARICOM in areas vital to the the MOU as well as of any specific development of the economies of Memoranda which may be conclud- its Member States notably in the ed arising from the original docu- fields of trade negotiation skills and ment. trade promotion and to develop the scientific and technical capacity of CARICOM,‖ said a statement a Memorandum of Understanding from the Secretariat. (MOU) aimed at strengthening po- litical, scientific and technical rela- tionships and promoting develop- Some of the other areas identified ment co-operation partnership include Tourism, Agriculture between the two parties. (including livestock, forestry and agro-industry), Fisheries, Mining,

Climate Change, Scientific and

www.antigua-barbuda.com : Stories Excerpted from www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag and caribbeannewsnow 20 COCO POINT LODGE GIVES co Point to facilitate us in the event Coco Point Fund to get their de- SUBSTANTIAL HELP TO ITS that there is a Medivac to put the grees and return to contribute to COMMUNITY… lights on at Coco Point Airstrip … Barbuda,‖ Mussington said. and they’ve really been good to us,‖

Punter said. It is not uncommon for corporate According to Mussington, for the citizens to give back to the commu- past 15 or 20 years, the schools, nities in which they operate but two But this is not the only way hospital, day care centre have been prominent Barbudans are full of that this corporate citizen has given asked to submit a list of things they praise for Coco Point Lodge which back to Barbudans. Community ac- need, many of which would be pro- they consider to be exemplary in tivist John Mussington shared with vided from the fund. One year, Ho- this respect. Chairman of Barbuda us a number of ways the 40-year- ly Trinity got all of its lab equipment Council Kelvin Punter would like to old all-inclusive hotel has assisted and chemicals through the fund, he thank Patrick Kelley, owner of the Barbudans. said. ―This year in particular, the establishment for his assistance in container which persons were talk- transporting persons to and from ing about was bringing the items to Barbuda as the authorities try to The services highlighted by Barbuda for the hospital, pre- find another airline to replace Mussington included replacement of school, Holy Trinity, Sir McChesney Winair. He explained that Kelley the roof of Holy Trinity School George Secondary and even the has had to come to Council’s assis- which was damaged during the pas- Pentecostal Educational Centre,‖ tance on many occasions in trans- sage of Hurricane Luis in 1995; con- Mussington said. ―Sir McChesney porting councilmen, as well as other struction of a classroom for kinder- Secondary, we were able to source civil servants who found themselves garten students; expansion of the and obtain a sound system, audio stranded on the island. library to include a computer lab; visual equipment, for example, flat and full scholarships for students at screen TV, DVD players, projector the tertiary level. All of this he said screen and most importantly, we’ve The chairman also ex- was made possible through a fund, been able to get this year irrigation pressed special thanks for his assis- called the Coco Point Fund that was equipment which would enable us tance in transporting persons to the established by repeat guests to the to deal with landscaping, agricultural hospital on the mainland. ―With hotel. ―For example, we’ve had doc- programme,‖ he added. lights not in place, we’ve asked Co- tors, architects who benefited from

Antiguan Receives "Sea researcher Dr. Jeffrey Seminoff poster describing his monitoring Turtle Champions" Award joined Dr. Karen Arthur, chair of efforts in southwestern Antigua. the Awards Committee, in present- Posted On: 26th April, 2011 ing Prince with his plaque at the The annual Symposium, attended by Mr. Jepson Prince of Crab Hill, An- Symposium banquet on Friday, April more than 1,000 people from tigua, was recently presented with a 15. around the world, provides an op- Sea Turtle Champions award for his portunity to present research on exceptional contributions to sea Prince serves as the lead patroller sea turtles and a forum to discuss turtle conservation in Antigua. Mr. for the Antigua Sea Turtle Conser- regional and global conservation Prince received the award while vation Project and works as the issues. attending the International Sea Tur- nursery manager for the Parks De- ―Jepson has done an enormous tle Society’s 31st Annual Symposium partment at Jumby Bay. He is also a service for Antiguan sea turtle con- on Sea Turtle Biology and Conser- long-term volunteer with the Jumby servation‖, said Seth Stapleton, vation held in mid-April in San Die- Bay Hawksbill Project. manager of the Jumby Bay Hawksbill go, California, USA. Prince received numerous letters of Project. ―This award is a great trib- The Champions awards are present- support from individuals recognizing ute to his long-term commitment ed to individuals who conduct his contributions to Antiguan ma- to protect and monitor nesting tur- ―outstanding work towards the ef- rine conservation, including the An- tles on Antigua’s beaches. The fective conservation of sea turtles.‖ tigua Fisheries Division, the Envi- Awards Committee couldn’t have Prince was one of only 3 recipients ronmental Awareness Group, the selected a more deserving individu- from around the world to receive Parks Department at Jumby Bay, al; Jepson’s an outstanding role the award. The President of the and the Jumby Bay Hawksbill Pro- model for young people who want Symposium and world-renowned ject. He also presented a research to make a difference.‖

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