The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission

Official Newsletter - Issue 132 -- March/April 2009

Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer takes Oaths of Secrecy, Office and Allegiance administered by Governor- General Dame Louise Lake-Tack

The United Progressive Party (UPP) was successful at the polls on the 12th March 2009 winning 10 of the 17 seats. See pages 2 and 3 In This Issue 1. UPP retains power (page 2) 2. The Music Society of Antigua and Barbuda ( page 5) 3. Tributes to the late Dr Ivor Heath and Senator the Honourable Lion Gomes (page 13) 4. Statement by the Honourable Minister of Finance (page 16) Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 132 - March/April 2009

the Antigua Labour Party has population density and GDP per held the reins of government capita. for the last twenty-eight (28) years. The change in 2004 In recent times figures seen in was therefore met with much publications have ranged from rejoicing, a desire for change 80,000 to 90,000 and sometimes and a release of much built- even higher. I honestly believe that it up expectation on the part of is high time that we are able to say, many of the inhabitants of the with much more certainty, what the country. population of our nation really is. For this presentation I will use the The elections of 2009 were average of the above two figures or quite different. There has 85,000. This would mean that been much discussion in the approximately 61% of the population media about the results; what were registered to vote. From the they mean and what may results released by the Antigua and have gone wrong. There Barbuda Electoral Commission a have been too many total of 41,676 voters actually accusations flying left to right exercised this right yielding a voter and back to front turn out percentage of 80%. The accompanied by a comparative figure for 2004 is 91% resurgence of animosities at and shows an overall decline of 11%. a time when unity and co- This may or may not be material but it operation are most needed. clearly shows that a significant percentage of the voters were able to There were many observer vote. missions present over the period of the elections. The CET which comprised of three Among them were the Organisation of staffers from the Commonwealth The 2009 Elections in American States (OAS) team of 31 Secretariat, was chaired by the members, the Commonwealth Honourable Christine Stewart Antigua and Barbuda Secretariat Expert Team (CET) of 6 (Former Secretary of State for members, the Caricom Observer Foreign Affairs, Canada), and (Part 1) Team and the United Group of included Ms Ruth Arleen Meighan Church Leaders. Unfortunately I (Chief Elections Officer, Elections Upon my return to the United could only get my hands on the report and Boundaries Department, Belize) Kingdom since the 12th March which was released by the and Mr David Yhann (former Project election in Antigua and Barbuda, I Commonwealth Secretariat earlier Director, Elections Monitoring Project, have been asked on many occasions this month. The CET was in Antigua Electoral Assistance Bureau, “how did the elections go back home”. and Barbuda from the 6th to 16th Guyana). I have attempted to explain, not just March 2009. I will therefore use this the results but also why this election, public document to ground my own The elections passed peacefully. The unlike that of 2004 has evoked so observations. results were somewhat of a surprise much adverse reactions among the to many persons especially the failure citizens and residents of the country. Since 2004 over nine thousand, eight of Dr. Errol Cort to retain his seat and I therefore have decided to make this hundred and twenty (9825 to be the return of Former Prime Minister the subject of my message in the exact) first-time registrants were Lester Bird and Molwyn Joseph. High Commission’s Newsletter for added to the voters list. This took Even more surprising was the defeat March/April 2009. of Winston Williams by a relative new- place between the 1st January 2004 comer to politics, Eustace Lake. What The elections of 2004 were pivotal in and the 31st December 2008. These were some of the factors which the history of the nation of Antigua additions increased the electoral list contributed to this and what was the and Barbuda for it removed from to fifty-two thousand, one hundred response of the general population? office a party which had ruled the and seventy-three (52,173). To put In part II, I will continue my analysis of State for over forty (40) years (except this figure into perspective, one would the elections and the CET report. for the period of 1971 to 1976). In fact, have to relate it to the total population figure normally used to determine H.E. Dr Carl Roberts

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UPP Retains Power

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda the Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer, after winning the General Elections on 12th March, has named the members of his Cabinet. The Cabinet members took their Oath of Office at Government House. The members of the Cabinet are as follows:

1. The Honourable W. Baldwin Spencer, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs

2. The Honourable Justin Simon Q.C., Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs

3. The Honourable Willmoth Daniel, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Social Transformation and Consumer Affairs

4. The Honourable Harold Lovell, Minister of Finance, The Economy and Public Administration

5. Senator The Honourable Dr. L. Errol Cort, Minister of National Security

6. The Honourable Hilson Baptiste, Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment

7. Dr. The Honourable Jacqui Quinn-Leandro, Minister of Education, Sports, Youth and Gender Affairs

8. The Honourable John Herbert Maginley, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture

9. The Honourable Trevor Myke Walker, Minister of Works and Transport

Additional members of the Prime Minister’s Government include:

Ministers of State

Honourable Chanlah Codrington - Minister of State attached to the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment with responsibility for Marine Resources including Fisheries, Agro Industries, Environment, Development Control Authority (DCA)

Honourable Eleston Montgomery Adams - Minister of State attached to the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture with responsibility for Culture, Independence, National Parks/Heritage Sites, Festivals including Carnival

Senator the Honourable. Dr. Edmond Mansoor - Minister of State attached to the Office of The Prime Minister with responsibility for Information, Broadcasting, Telecommunications, Science & Technology, Special Projects Prime Minister, Attorney General and some Members of the Senate Senator the Honourable Winston Vincent Williams - Minister of State attached to the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth Affairs with Responsibility for Sports, Local Government, Boys Training School, Special Projects including School Meals Project

Senator the Honourable Joanne Maureen Massiah - Minister of State attached to the Ministry of Legal Affairs with responsibility for Magistrates Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, Industrial Court, Registrar & Provost Marshall, Legal Aid Advice Centre

Senator the Honourable Elmore Charles- Minister of State attached to the Ministry of Works and Transport with responsibility for Transport Board, Procurement, Stores, Vehicular Control

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Program (SPP), featured 2 flip charts; 1 projector and screen; 2 Seminar on Youth presentations from the Florida Youth easels; 24 dictionaries; 12 calculators; Challenge Academy, the Seminole 2 desktop computers; 2 laptops; 3 Crime Prevention County Sheriff’s Office, the cases exercise books; 5 netballs and Jacksonville Police Athletic League, net; 7 basketballs and 2 nets; 4 sets The Ministry of Justice and Public and the State Attorney’s Office in cricket gloves; 4 wicketkeeper gloves; Safety co-sponsored a one day Jacksonville—Florida. and 4 sets cricket pads. seminar on youth crime prevention last Friday March 20th 2009. The seminar At the conclusion of the seminar, the Senior personnel from the Ministry of entitled “Shared Experiences” from the Barbados’ office USAID made Justice received the gifts on behalf juvenile justice program in Florida was sizeable educational and sports- of the above-mentioned youth coordinated jointly with the United related equipment donations to the organizations; then thanked States Agency for International following institutions: The Ministry of representatives from USAID, and the Development (USAID)’s Barbados Education, Sports, Youth and Gender Florida National Guard, who travelled office, and the Office of the US Military Affairs; The Boy’s Training School to Antigua and Barbuda for the seminar. Southern Command. Correctional Facility; Her Majesty’s Prison; the Sunshine Home for Girls; The Ministry of Justice and Public The event, funded through the Florida and the Ministry of Sports. Those Safety is now under the umbrella of National Guard’s State Partnership included: 1 digital camera; 2 printers; the Ministry of National Security.

43rd Antigua and Barbuda Sports Fishing Tournament - Catamaran - Falmouth Harbour 29th May to 1st June

“This is another demonstration of the A constituent member of the University Prime Minister United Progressive Party of Louisiana System, Grambling State administration that we are committed University is fully accredited by the Spencer secures to ensuring that the majority of young Southern Association of Colleges and more Scholarships Antiguans and Barbudans are given Schools (SACS ). Its instructional the opportunity to advance themselves programs are delivered through a for Antiguans and by pursuing degree studies in some of School of Graduate Studies and the finest universities around the Research and four undergraduate Barbudans world,” said Prime Minister Spencer. colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Professional Studies. On the 6th March Prime Minister the The agreement with Grambling State Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer signed a University in the United States also The university offers 64 programmes, Memorandum of Understanding with facilitates the exchange of faculty for leading to certification, associate's, Grambling State University to bring the purposes of research, service, bachelor's, master's and doctoral into effect the granting of fifty partial consulting and teaching. degrees. The university also offers the scholarships and five full scholarships only doctorate in developmental to qualified Antiguans and Barbudans. During his visit to Antigua Dr. education in the United States. Mahmoud Lamadanie paid a courtesy Prime Minister Spencer outlined that call on Her Excellency Dame Louise he signed the MOU with the Associate Lake Tack, Governor General of Vice President and Executive Director Antigua and Barbuda and held for the Centre for International Affairs discussions with the then Education and Programmes Dr. Mahmoud Minister Bertrand Joseph and Chief Lamadanie who was visiting Antigua Education Officer Mrs. Jacintha and Barbuda to hold discussions with Pringle. Ministry of Education officials and prospective students.

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Centre, the main purpose for which is Gordon Edwards pianist, and The Music Society of to provide a permanent home for the organist/accompanist Veronica Dyde Antigua and Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda Symphony together with a Guyanese baritone, Orchestra, and which will include an Paul Cort, who is currently living and auditorium for performances of all the teaching in Antigua.. It also held a On 18th November 2007 the Music arts and management of the Centre. Panel Discussion at the Museum, the Society of Antigua and Barbuda came topic for discussion being “The Role into being when a small group of 8 With regard to the last objective, the of Music in a Developing Society.” persons all having an interest in the Society has been extremely fortunate love of music met to try to fill the need in that we already have a benefactor The Society now has as one of its for an organisation which could who will provide it with funds for the priorities, the widening of its promote music of all genres locally. construction of the Centre. The membership in Antigua and abroad, An interim Executive Committee Government is considering a parcel of and to this end anyone interested in comprised of 8 members was duly land to be donated for this purpose. becoming a member should complete elected. the enclosed application form and The first fundraising recital was held forward it together with a The objectives of the Society as stated on February 8th 2008 at the St John’s cheque/postal order to: in its Constitution are as follows: Cathedral. A flautist from the United The Music Society of Antigua and Kingdom – Gabrielle Byam-Grounds, Barbuda, (1) to give support to Music Director of English Serenata, and a c/o Antigua and Barbuda High Education and developing musicians; young professional pianist from St Commission (2) to become supporting Vincent, Sean Sutherland performed 2nd Floor, 45 Crawford Place, partners with philanthropist and donor works by Bach, Fauré, Liszt, Elgar and London W1H 4LP agencies through which funding may others. Since then, the Society has be directed; held two other recitals; one in The annual membership subscription (3) to provide musicians with September 2008 by a visiting is as follows: performing experience – especially American pianist Roman Rudnytsky, Students under the age of 18 £7.00 young musicians; and the most recent held on March Adults £14.00 (4) to assist in projects such as 22nd, by two Antiguan musicians– the building of a Music Resource

Early Childhood Education, using the critical important “What we want to do is to find a way ornamental model, and a model for to train our early childhood teachers. It Associate’s Degree establishing and monitoring of the is important we do that, so that the Being Formulated for programme. The development of the teaching population is properly early childhood associate degree qualified. Antiguan and Barbudan programme has been fully endorsed Teachers by education minister Dr. the Hon. “Early childhood is very important and Jacqui Quinn-Leandro. is also the most important area in the Discussions aimed at developing early entire life of a child. Once you have childhood education through teacher “What it is going to do is to continue formed that solid foundation, then training have begun in the Ministry of strengthening the foundation, on everyone after will be able to build on Education. which our children and young people it,” Mrs. Pringle noted. will build their education. We have a Local education officials and passion in this ministry for the early The programme will be introduced in a representatives of the Joint Board of childhood programme. We want to pilot phase, and will be taught during Teacher Education of Jamaica, along build it as one of the foundations for evening classes for three years. with Shortwood Teachers’ College are higher quality education in Antigua meeting in Antigua this week, and Barbuda,” Dr. Leandro stated. Earla Esdaille, education officer in engaging in dialogue that will lead to Chief Education Officer Jacintha charge of early childhood education, the development of an Associate’s Pringle, while sanctioning the Early says the degree courses will be Degree for Antiguan and Barbudan Childhood degree, commented “if administered jointly by Shortwood teachers, desirous of specializing in persons were going to respect Teachers’ Training College, UWI Mona early childhood education. teachers, they must be qualified.” and Cave Hill campuses, through the Antigua State College. Drs. Rose Davies, Marcia Stewart and She said presently, primary and Christopher Clarke held three days of secondary school teachers are trained Esdaille, while admitting that meetings, with Ministry of Education via the joint board of teacher education completing the initial phase will be personnel, discussing the feasibility of eastern zone (UWI Cave Hill), but challenging, is predicting that the degree, examining critical provisions were never made for discussions will conclude in time for components of an Early Childhood teachers of pre-school, kindergarten the launch of the degree in September, teacher programme, developing an and grades one to two. However, that 2009. associate degree in Early Childhood is about to change.

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Prime Minister The Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer Address To The Nation Sunday March 22, 2009

Fellow Citizens and Residents of Every Minister in my nine-member This was also tellingly demonstrated in Antigua and Barbuda: Cabinet, and the majority of the our bold and swift action in Ministers of State assigned to various reconvening parliament after its I consider it my duty to speak candidly Ministries, has five solid years of dissolution, in order to secure a with you about issues which are of government experience. resolution authorising the Government concern to a majority of the viewers of Antigua and Barbuda to acquire and listeners to this broadcast. That experience includes central hundreds of acres of prime lands involvement in the transformation from which the previous administration had In discharge of the new mandate a failed state to five years of unbroken transferred to Alan Stanford for next to which the Antiguan and Barbudan economic growth since 2004. nothing. people gave to the United Progressive Party ten days ago, I have The experience I have mobilised in the As the country, the region and the restructured the Government of new UPP administration includes world is facing a sustained economic Antigua and Barbuda to ensure leadership in the transformation from crisis that has triggered the wholesale maximum optimization of the decades of fiefdom to a new culture of collapse of businesses, job losses in resources available to the Government. governance, which, for the first time, the millions and bleak forecasts of I now lead a Cabinet which I have holds elected officials to legally negative growth, business as usual is reduced to Nine Ministers; the Prime defined codes of transparency, not an option. Minister and the Attorney General, accountability, morality and integrity in It is our good fortune that over the past included. public affairs. five years, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda has won the respect of Had the UPP won more seats in the Fellow Citizens and Residents of the international investment General Election, I would also have Antigua and Barbuda: community and donor countries and opted for a reduction to a nine- institutions. member Cabinet. Though we are fortunate in having continuity in government, I again We have developed alliances with This reduced Cabinet signals stress that it will not be business as strong nations which have contributed recognition of the need for belt- usual. significantly to our country’s social and tightening at the highest executive economic development. level. This has application in the composition of state boards and statutory Under my administration, Antigua and Current and foreseeable national and authorities. Barbuda has earned the trust and international economic imperatives goodwill of countries which are willing dictate new frugality, new austerity in I do not expect that directors of state to assist in the continuing the governments of nations large as boards and commissioners of development of our nation. well as small; industrialised as well as statutory authorities to ignore the emerging economies. convention which dictates that they In this context, I know you will be should voluntarily offer their pleased to learn that my The reduction in the size of the resignations so that the Cabinet and Administration already has a firm Cabinet will make for timelier decision Ministers with new portfolios will have commitment for the funding of the making and implementation in the all options open for reconstituting the University of Antigua and Barbuda. delivery of the greatest good to the state entities. greatest number of the Antiguan and I expect that in very short order, we will Barbudan people. In a wrenchingly changing world, formalise the necessary arrangements business as usual is simply not an for the commencement of work on the Ministers of State who are attached to option. University of Antigua and Barbuda. certain Ministries, may, from time to time, be invited to be in attendance at This was tellingly demonstrated in my The establishment of the University of Cabinet for discussions on specific Administration’s involvement in Antigua and Barbuda will be a giant matters for which they have assigned formulating and implementing the step on the path to my vision of responsibilities. strategy for the protection of universal free tertiary education for depositors in the Bank of Antigua and young Antiguans and Barbudans. its employees.

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Fellow Citizens and Residents of who sought to link the UPP with fires the election results and to challenge Antigua and Barbuda: at two ALP constituency offices during the legitimacy of the Government. the campaign. As the United Progressive Party Fellow Citizens and Residents of Administration proceeds with its Over the last few days, a defeated Antigua and Barbuda: mandate to move the nation forward, ALP election candidate was true to the members of the rejected regime that character of his party’s leadership in Underlining the hypocrisy of their held a stranglehold on power in this falsely accusing the UPP of setting fire challenge to the legitimacy of the country for decades appear bent on to two of his motor vehicles. Government, it is widely reported that inciting anarchy. immediately after polling day, The matter involving a break-in at the members of the leadership of the ALP On this point, I reaffirm that my home of the defeated ALP candidate began offering staggering sums of Administration stands firm in our for St. John’s Rural North is very money to a number of United pledged determination to defend the instructive. Progressive Party Members of nation against external forces which Parliament as inducement for them to threaten our economy and the integrity That incident, too, was falsely imputed withdraw support from the UPP of our financial system. to the UPP. administration.

I strongly reaffirm that the UPP also Lo and behold, when effective police In one case, members of the ALP stands firm in defending the nation investigation led to the apprehension leadership presented a UPP MP with against those internal forces whose of the guilty party, the rejected ALP a substantial offer of money; together patent agenda is to destroy that which candidate promptly intervened to with a written declaration signed by the they cannot control. interrupt the course of justice. ALP members of Parliament, in which they pledged their support for him to These concerns are of sharp His stated position was, inter alia, that become Prime Minister. relevance following the recent threat of he did not want to press charges blood on the streets from an ALP MP. against the burglar, with whom his Having sold out the government, the family was acquainted. people’s patrimony, and the nation’s They are of direct relevance following sovereignty for next to nothing when other inflammatory utterances from You might wish to ponder upon that. they were in government, the same ALP spokespersons during the ALP frontline players are now election campaign and since. The nation is left to wonder what attempting to bribe their way to response is to be expected from other another chance at government. The many disturbing developments purported ALP victims of highly involving the leadership and publicized fires if increasingly potent I am proud to say that that every candidates of the defeated Antigua police investigative skills should lead candidate of the UPP whom the Labour Party paint a profoundly to the arrest of perpetrators of other Antiguan and Barbudan people ominous portrait of a group with an unlawful incidents in which ALP elected to the House of Parliament told unconcealed agenda for anarchy. activists have been cast as victims. the ALP leaders “Get thee, hence!”

The ALP agenda is manifestly bent on Fellow Citizens and Residents of Not for one moment did any of the making Antigua and Barbuda Antigua and Barbuda: UPP MPs who were importuned by the ungovernable, following the ALP give any thought to betraying the Opposition party’s repeat rejection by The untoward incidents in which ALP trust of the people who voted for the the majority of the Antiguan and operatives have been involved are not UPP ticket. Barbudan electorate. isolated. They faithfully reflect the flawed It is inherent to their involvement in You might already be aware of some of collective character of the current ALP politics through the United Progressive those developments. leadership and must be viewed in the Party that our MPs are steadfast in context of the ALP Leader’s fearful their pledge to put the people and our Last Thursday night, an ALP declaration, “If we lose this election, country first. spokesperson leveled the most Crapaud smoke our pipe.” outrageous, dangerous and utterly Those who have been offering large baseless allegations of electoral That declaration, as is widely known sums of money as inducements for improprieties against the Prime was in acknowledgment of the elected UPP parliamentarians to Minister. implications of the documentation of betray their party and the people are the misdeeds of the entire ALP guilty of serious crimes. There was not a shred of truth to those frontline leadership while holding high scurrilous allegations. public office. That level of venality is without precedent and without parallel in our That was also the case with Since losing the Election, the ALP has region. accusations from ALP spokespersons embarked on a campaign to discredit

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They have shamed our nation. laundering; citizenship; immigration; · To defend and strengthen our work permits; and maintaining the country’s institutions of They continue to bring our country into security of our borders. democracy; international disrepute with a flood of fictions in the regional media and on I expect the relevant agencies of the · To respect the law and to the Internet, such as the prevarication government to investigate the matters work to ensure equal justice that voter turnout in the St. John’s I have raised with you this evening, Rural West constituency was in and to bring to justice those who are for all. excess of 98 percent. attempting to undermine the will of the voters and subvert our parliamentary We pledged to work to make Antigua Fellow Citizens and Residents of system, which is the bedrock of our and Barbuda a land blessed with Antigua and Barbuda: democracy. peace and security;

I expect that the Ministry of National Fellow Citizens and Residents of With prosperity and opportunity for all; Security will consider the ongoing Antigua and Barbuda: A land where there are no second impact of incitements on Hate Radio class citizens; and other ALP political platforms I think it is fitting to conclude with the which may have the effect of creating pledges sworn by the candidates of Where all Antigua and Barbuda’s sons public mischief, and which may incite the United Progressive Party when we and daughters, native born and civil disorder. began the year with the Big Blue Wave immigrant, embrace one another as on Nevis Street on Sunday January 4th. One Family. The need for and the duty of Defending the Nation, the Sixteen strong and united in voice and The General Election might have Government’s dominant campaign in purpose we pledged, and I quote: temporarily rent that family asunder. theme and the title of the UPP’s Agenda for the Second Term, is · To be the servants of the It is time for all of Antigua and Barbuda’s sons and daughters to crystalised and given focused effect in people, always putting the become involved in bringing the nation the newly created Ministry of National people first; Security. together again as one family. · To so conscientiously The essential functions of the Ministry We must not let the self-serving of National Security are not unlike manage the resources of our agendas of a few destroy our nation. those of the Department of Homeland nation, that we will leave no Security in the United States, which one behind; May God bring us together and keep was established after the 9/11 attacks us together as one family. on the World Trade Centre and the · To give all citizens a voice in May God bless Antigua and Barbuda. Pentagon. shaping decisions that will affect their lives; The Ministry of National Security has Thank you responsibility for public peace and · To hold transparency, safety; protecting property, preventing, investigating and prosecuting crime, accountability and integrity as including narcotics and money our watchwords; haven of romance with world renowned “It was a very difficult decision to postpone Antigua and Barbuda international artistes performing to capacity Romantic Rhythms 2009 but given the Romantic Rhythms Music crowds. Breathtaking performances by current economic crisis we feel it is the Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, Brian prudent thing to do. We set a very high Festival postponed McKnight, and Keyshia Cole alongside other standard for our first year. Significant until 2010 first class regional and local artistes set the resources were put into marketing the event benchmark for future festivals. and establishing the Romantic Rhythms brand. Since we do not have the resources On the 14th April 2009 the Hon. Eleston The festival received extensive coverage via this year to match or better that standard set Adams, Minister of State in The Ministry of a range of international and regional media in 2008, we feel that the event should be Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture today organizations. postponed. This will allow us to maintain the announced the postponement of The brand equity that was built last year and give Second Annual Antigua and Barbuda Minister Adams indicated that many options us an opportunity to focus our resources on Romantic Rhythms International Music were considered prior to taking the final planning for an even more spectacular event Festival 2009. decision to postpone the festival. in 2010,” said Adams.

The rescheduling of the event has been Scaling back the number of artists, reducing Negotiations are already in progress to attributed to the worsening global economic the number of days, using only regional secure the best international perform- crisis. performers were some of the options put on the table for consideration. Ultimately, it was ers for 2010. The new dates and Last year, the event was held from June 12 - decided that to alter the standard would only line-up will be announced in the near 15 at The Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, serve to damage the Romantic Rhythms future. where the stadium was transformed into a brand.

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LIGHTHOUSE BAY RESORT, BARBUDA, OFFERS UP-CLOSE EXPERIENCE AT WORLD’S LARGEST FRIGATE BIRD SANCTUARY REACHABLE ONLY BY BOAT Lighthouse Bay Resort, an Lighthouse Bay Resort Guests dine on locally exclusive private island getaway in features nine luxuriously-appointed prepared dishes using fresh Barbuda, just a 15-minute flight from ocean-front guest rooms and suites Caribbean produce and catches from Antigua, provides its guests with an up with private balconies, highly the sea. Three meals, plus snacks, close and personal encounter with the personalized service from a staff of 25, and drinks are all included. The resort world’s largest frigate bird sanctuary. resident gourmet chef and masseuse, was recently recognized by Islands Reachable only by boat and just 15 24-hour concierge, roof-top restaurant Magazine as among The Top Seven minutes from Lighthouse Bay, the with 360-degree ocean views and 14 Spots That Promise A True Escape nesting grounds are home to more miles of pristine white and pink sand From Everything and by The New than 5,000 frigate birds and 170 other beach. York Times as Number 3 of 39 bird species. The one-hour excursion Reasons To Go To the Caribbean in is priced at $54 for two people and $10 All elegant and spacious guest 2009. for each additional person. rooms and suites include lavish leather and mahogany furnishings, flat Lighthouse Bay Resort is In mating season, from screen TV with satellite reception, base camp to explore Barbuda’s September to April, the male frigate iPod compatible surround-sound tranquility and signature activities of bird displays a huge red breast to stereo, wireless Internet and in-room sailing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, attract a female mate. They lay on laptop, personal safe, bathrobes, lobster fishing, exploring hidden caves one egg on a nest built precariously in illuminated make-up mirror, hair dryer, and bays, shell hunting and horseback the mangroves. Frigate birds cannot original watercolour paintings from riding. Tours are available to the world walk or swim. They soar high in the local artist Stephen Murphy, daily renowned Frigate Bird Sanctuary, clouds, live solely on fish and often housekeeping and evening turn-down Spanish Point, Two Foot Bay and steal fish from other birds. service. Darby Caves.

the handful of small hotels that sit on for every day of the year, with a wide Barbuda’s Pink Sand it." array of facilities and activities to suit the needs of any beach-goer. The Beach rated one of "We are quite pleased to receive this country is recognized throughout the the Best Remote industry recognition," said CEO of the world as one of the best beach Antigua and Barbuda Tourism destinations Beaches in the Authority, Colin C. James, who also noted that this particular beach had World received numerous commendations in the past, such as placing Our sister isle, Barbuda, has once amongst Condé Nast Traveler's listing again been recognized for its of the World's Best Beaches. spectacular un-spoilt beaches. “It proves beyond a doubt that our According to travel website, beaches are the unique selling Trave.AOL.com, Pink Beach, located proposition that attract visitors to in Barbuda, is considered one of the select Antigua and Barbuda as their “Best Remote Beaches Around The vacation destination. Our job is to World”. make sure that everyone knows about the breathtaking beauty that nature The website’s feature on hidden has blest us with and that we combine beaches in warm weather destinations this gift with unsurpassed hospitality had this to say: "Essentially one huge that will make our visitors return time sandbar, this flamingo-hued swath and time again." extends eight miles from Palmetto Barbuda was the only Caribbean Point towards Spanish Point, at the Island named, amongst the 12 other southern end. About the only people worldwide destination. Antigua and who stroll Pink Beach are guests from Barbuda boasts of 365 beaches, one

9 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 132 - March/April 2009

COMMONWEALTH DAY

MONDAY 9 MARCH 2009 A Message from Her Majesty The Queen, Head of the Commonwealth

This year the Commonwealth commemorates its foundation sixty years ago. The London Declaration of 1949 was the start of a new era in which our member countries committed themselves to work together, in partnership and as equals, towards a shared future.

We can rightly celebrate the fact that the founding members’ vision of the future has become a reality. The Commonwealth has evolved out of all recognition from its beginning. It has helped give birth to modern nations, and the eight original countries have become fifty-three. We are now home to nearly two billion people: a third of the world’s population. Across continents and oceans, we have come to represent all the rich diversity of humankind.

Yet despite its size and scale, the Commonwealth to me has been sustained during all this change by the continuity of our mutual values and goals. Our beliefs in freedom, democracy and human rights; equality and equity; development and prosperity mean as much today as they did more than half a century ago.

These values come from a common responsibility exercised by our governments and peoples. It is this which makes the Commonwealth a family of nations and peoples, at ease with being together. As a result, I believe we are inspired to do our best to meet people’s most pressing needs, and to develop a truly global perspective. That is why the modern Commonwealth has stood the test of time.

But as we reflect upon our long association, we should recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Nearly one billion people of today’s Commonwealth are under 25 years of age. These are the people that this association must continue to serve in the future. It is they who can help shape the Commonwealth of today, and whose children will inherit the Commonwealth of tomorrow. To help them make the best of their opportunities, our young men and women therefore need the opportunity to become active and responsible members of the communities in which they live. I am pleased that the Commonwealth recognizes this, and is determined to continue to put young people at its centre.

The call that brought the Commonwealth together in 1949 remains the same today. Then we joined together in a collective spirit – built on lasting principles, wisdom, energy and creativity – to meet the great tasks of our times. As the Commonwealth celebrates its sixtieth birthday, its governments, communities and we as individuals should welcome that achievement. Together, we should continue to work hard to deal with today’s challenges so that the young people of today’s Commonwealth can realize their aspirations. In that way, we can look to the future with confidence.

ELIZABETH R 9 March 2009

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COMMONWEALTH DAY

MONDAY 9 MARCH 2009

A Message from Commonwealth Secretary- General Kamalesh Sharma

In 2009, we celebrate the fact that the modern Commonwealth is 60 years old. Its antecedence is much longer, stretching back to the 1870s. Its future can be longer still, if it is true to its theme for 2009: thecommonwealth@60 – serving a new generation.

The Commonwealth has stood the test of time. It stands tall as an organisation of shared values, dedicated to protecting and advancing its principles. It has been flexible and dynamic in meeting the changing challenges of its times, and sensitive to the needs of its smaller and weaker members. It has always been a part of the wider global community. As a champion of democracy, development and diversity, the Commonwealth has a powerful story to tell. It is bonded together as a community both of governments and of peoples.

The London Declaration of 1949, which brought us into being, saw the far-sightedness of eight countries constituting themselves anew. In so doing, they made the Commonwealth the first real example of an international community representing a collective, consultative, mutually respectful approach to international relations. Nehru put it this way: ‘if you approach another country in a friendly way, with goodwill and generosity, you will be paid back in the same coin, and probably in even larger measure’. Of such vision was the Commonwealth born.

Yet our greater task this year is to look straight ahead – and ask how we can continue serving a new generation in 2009 and beyond.

What sort of 21st Century will our young people inherit? Will they know greater peace and prosperity than their parents? Will they exercise their most basic entitlements to food and education, health- care, a vote?

The Commonwealth has always had an eye on the people and the tasks of tomorrow. Now, it must be prescient again in safeguarding and promoting the guarantors of the best hopes for its future: its young people.

At the international level, the Commonwealth can argue that young people be both seen and heard at the global decision-making table, and that the planet itself must be preserved for their use. At the national level, the views of young people must be heard and acted upon in every corner of public life, and the contributions of the young should be embraced. At the community level, we should continue to instil in young people a sense of shared responsibility. At the level of individual young people, we must continue to build both skills and a sense of self-belief. These pressing tasks share the urgency of the times.

The Commonwealth’s diamond anniversary year is about celebrating, reflecting – and serving a new generation.

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Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority appoints Hilary Modeste as new Director of Tourism for UK and Europe The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism addition, he will maintain effective and hoteliers, in order to promote Authority has appointed Peter Hilary relationships with airlines, tour Antigua and Barbuda. I am confident Modeste as the new Director of operators, travel agents and that with their support and together Tourism for the UK & Europe. He will stakeholders, organise and participate with various new initiatives, Antigua be taking over from Carol Hay who will in trade and consumer events and Barbuda will remain one of the top be joining the Caribbean Tourism throughout the UK and Europe plus Caribbean destinations for UK and Organisation as European Marketing coordinate familiarisation tours and European visitors.” Director. Modeste is highly qualified press trips to Antigua and Barbuda, for the position with fifteen years whilst leading a dynamic team of Modeste will report directly to the CEO experience in the tourism industry professional staff. of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism having most recently worked as Authority, Mr. Colin C. James, who Director of Marketing Worldwide for Peter Hilary Modeste’s distinguished adds, “Mr. Modeste brings a unique Jolly Beach Resort & Spa in Antigua. career also includes roles as wealth of experience in Caribbean Executive Producer of St. Lucia Jazz. tourism marketing, and a wide network After serving as the Executive Vice While serving as Executive Vice of industry contacts, which are vital President of the St. Lucia Hotel and President of the St. Lucia Hotel and ingredients to the Antigua and Tourism Association, Modeste joined Tourism Association, he was elected Barbuda’s efforts to effectively combat the St. Lucia Tourist Board as Director Chairperson of the Caribbean Hotel the difficulties that we now face in the of Tourism for St Lucia, working for Association Executives for the industry. He has a strong track- record over nine years, making him the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA). of delivering quick results which is longest serving Director for the island. Modeste has also held many positions exactly what is required right now. I within the St. Lucia Government also look forward to working with Modeste assumes his responsibilities throughout his established career Hilary to build the capacity of our UK & on 1 April 2009 and brings extensive including Director of the St. Lucia European offices which is necessary marketing experience and business Marketing Board and President of the to take the marketing and promotion of acumen to the role. St. Lucia Teachers Union. Antigua and Barbuda to the next level.”

His key responsibilities will be to Modeste comments; “I am looking Modeste holds an Honours Degree in develop and implement all marketing, forward to this new position with the Economics from the University of advertising and public relations Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Wales, Cardiff. strategies in order to strengthen Authority, and to working closely with Antigua and Barbuda’s position and the UK and European partners, brand in the UK and Europe. In including the airlines, tour operators

accountancy and organisational Cherrie Osborne and Antigua and Antigua and knowledge. Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for Barbuda Tourism UK & Europe, Hilary Modeste. Previous roles include Flight Authority appoints Operations Officer for Caribbean Colin C. James, Chief Executive Star Airlines, where he coordinated Officer of the new Antigua and new Tourism flight plans as well as serving as a Barbuda Tourism Authority, Customer Service Agent at the commented on the appointments: “I Officer for the UK same organisation. am extremely pleased with the appointment of Joel Henry who will The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Henry upholds a high standard of undoubtedly add tremendous value Authority has announced the customer service, having received to the operations of the UK office. It appointment of Mr. Joel Henry as extensive airline training which he demonstrates that the new Tourism Tourism Officer for the UK. can bring to his new role at the Authority is serious about providing Antigua and Barbuda Tourism the resources required to effectively Henry previously worked as Authority in the UK. market and promote our twin island Administration Assistant for the destination. I wish Joel every Stanford Development Company As a Tourism Officer, Henry will success in his new role.” where he developed strong assist both the Marketing & administration skills, alongside Administration Manager, Miss

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Tributes to the late Dr. Ivor Heath and Senator the Hon. Lionel Gomes by The Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda “On behalf of the Government and at Holberton Hospital, founder of the His work can be characterized as one People of Antigua and Barbuda and on Adelin Clinic and President and based on trustworthiness, respect, the behalf of my wife Jackie and Medical Director of the Antigua responsibility, fairness, courage, myself, I extend deep sympathies to Planned Parenthood Association, caring and citizenship, founded deeply the families of the late Dr. Keithley Ivor contributed significantly to the in the principle that God must be MacDonald Heath and Senator the development of health care in Antigua central to one’s actions. Hon. Lionel Gomes. and Barbuda and the nation as a whole. Because of his tireless efforts, the Both distinguished sons of the soil Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union, have demonstrated throughout their His love and passion for the nation the United Progressive Party and our lifetime an unwavering desire to build were highly demonstrated in his nation are all the better today. a solid foundation for the young nation private, political and medical life. As a of Antigua and Barbuda. politician and founding member of the The phrase “Wicked Set of People” UNDP of which I was also part, Dr. which originated with Senator Gomes, On Tuesday 14th April, the Nation of Heath was always dedicated to was not just a catch phrase for him, it Antigua and Barbuda accorded these serving his fellow Antiguans and was what he truly believed and men the honour they deserve in two Barbudans. He has always travelled the length and breath of this separate Official Funerals at the demonstrated a strong commitment to country to making sure that it was Cathedral of St. John the Divine and the cause of putting the people’s heard and understood by all. the Spring Gardens Moravian Church. interest first. He believed firmly that wrongs Dr. Keithley Ivor MacDonald Heath He will always remain one of Antigua committed on a nation and its people has served the nation of Antigua and and Barbuda’s brightest and patriotic must be depicted as evil acts, hence Barbuda for over thirty years in the sons. his constant refrain of wicked set of medical profession and later the people. political movement in Antigua and Senator the Hon. Lionel Gomes was Barbuda. His contributions to the always a tower of strength within the Our nation has lost a dedicated and nation in advocating the rights of political movement of Antigua and honest son – Senator Lionel Gomes women through the planned Barbuda. will surely be missed. parenthood movement, is also commendable. His days within the trade union May the souls of our departed brothers movement and later in the political Dr. Ivor Heath and Senator the Hon. Dr. Ivor Heath’s service in the medical arena are highlighted by a sense of Lionel Gomes rest in eternal peace.” profession, serving as Chief Surgeon love of country and others before self. NOTICE Due to circumstances beyond our control the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission will not participate at the International Social Services Fair (ISS) on the 12th and 13th May 2009. See you at the Commonwealth Countries League (CCL) Fair on the 17th October 2009 at the Kensington Town Hall.

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Panel Discussions on examination of the management of that The Reform of institution? There is International Institutions clear evidence that much concern exist about the cost, staffing, Ladies and gentlemen, today’s topic is selection of key one which is of tremendous interest to personnel and other each citizen of the developing world, resource factors. Why more so the “Bottom Billion”. There are then, we ask, should events which are happening over which the Head of the IMF or the citizens of Small Developing States WB be restricted to the have little chance to influence but whose citizen of a select group impact can wipe out many decades of of member territories? development and improvements in our Are we being guided by standard of living. the oft invisibly inscribed tenet that he The world today is a very different place who pays the lion share HE Dr Carl Roberts at the Panel Discussions organised to five years ago. Nonetheless many of can demand the greater by the Commonwealth Policy Studies Union (CPSU) the International Institutions have pound of flesh? structures and policies whose does it reflect the make-up of today’s framework relate to a timeframe beyond The attack in Iraq in defiance of the world). that period. Four institutions should Security Council raises many questions come under the spotlight during any of the mandate of the UN as a safeguard Let me now set the framework through review. These are the United Nations of the fundamental rights of the which I will deal with the topic before me. (UN), the International Monetary Fund sovereignty of nations, and the I will be forced to use the term small (IMF), the World Bank (WB) and the institution to which any member state states and developing states or World Trade Organisation (WTO). can make its appeal if aggrieved. There countries interchangeably. that member must be assured of a fair In the short time allowed, I would not be hearing and a speedy resolution of its Small Developing States today able to spend as much time as I would grievance with its neighbour. To whom participate in many fora. They are have liked on each institution do the citizens of the world appeal when members of the G77, the individually. Let me before reviewing their rights and even their lives are Commonwealth, as well as integral each of the above institution, however, trampled upon by leaders who ignore members of many regional grouping of make several observations which can fundamental principles of good sovereign states. The islands in the and should be used to determine the governance? Why do these institutions Caribbean Sea form two groupings, the effectiveness and fit for purpose of each appear powerless to enforce fairness smaller being the Organisation of of these bodies. and safe-guard basic human rights? eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and its larger grouping the Caribbean The world has become a tightly linked In some of these institutions, the debate Community (Caricom). The population eco-system. Each component of this focuses on who should be in the inner of these states range from 45,000 for St. network being affected and at the same circle and who should be on the Kitts and Nevis to 2.2 million for Jamaica, time influencing its surrounding linked periphery. Any reform should therefore with my own country of Antigua and parts. The interdependence of the result in the creation of new rules of Barbuda having a population of just respective components is clearly engagement developed in an 80,000. demonstrated in the speed by which the atmosphere of open and inclusive current financial crisis spread within dialogue. The principal reason for coming together each region and across the world. to form larger blocs is inherent with the The critical test of any modern desire to survive in the wider arena. The The campaign for change in any one of international institution should include old saying hold true here as well as these institutions is not to discard the the following: anywhere else: “there is strength in fact that some organisations have · How it improves the quality of life of numbers”. It is really sad to realise that adjusted over the years. In fact at the the people of the world in spite of this coming together, the UN, there have been over twenty (20) · How it guarantees security, health ability to influence the global paradigm is attempts at reforming the workings of and education for all not assured. various aspects of the UN operations · How it reduces poverty and over the last sixteen years. In the 1992- increase self-esteem among all classes President Olusegun Obasanjo of the 94 period, the Blue-Ribbon Commission of people Republic of Nigeria had this to say about on Global Governance reflected a · How it is funded and governed the G77 “The formation of this Group concern “that the major institutions (and · How to keep fundamental human was in response to the challenges of especially the UN) must be rights at the heart of its raison d’être poverty, underdevelopment, poor strengthened”. I ask strengthened to · How it ensures the protection of the coordination among developing achieve what? environment and finally countries in the face of the general trend · How relevant and current is that to be excluded from the march of When we talk of reform, what really are institution. (By this I mean how fairly progress as primarily determined by the our intentions? Are we requesting an more affluent nations of the North, all Continue on page 17

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of SIB, during which time the receivers Hamilton-Smith continues: “We Stanford International concluded that it had become clear appreciate this is a difficult time for SIB Bank Limited placed that the Bank's assets were investors. Unfortunately, to ensure the significantly less than its liabilities. fair distribution of assets, it is crucial all into Liquidation Commenting, Nigel Hamilton-Smith SIB accounts remain frozen while we said: “It quickly became apparent that continue in our efforts to locate and Nigel Hamilton-Smith and Peter there were a large number of investors realise the assets of SIB, which are Wastell, Client Partners at Vantis seeking to withdraw funds and the held in numerous jurisdictions Business Recovery Services, a Bank’s cash reserves were wholly worldwide. This is an extremely division of Vantis, the UK accounting, inadequate. It is also now apparent, complex task and we regret that it is tax and business advisory group, were that the assets of SIB are insufficient very unlikely that any distribution of appointed as joint liquidators for to meet the level of liabilities.” SIB assets will be made in the Stanford International Bank Limited determinable future.” (SIB or ‘the Bank’) on 15 April 2009 by At this time the liquidators are unable an Order of the High Court of Antigua to forecast the extent of the deficiency, Further communications will be issued and Barbuda. Stanford Trust but it is likely to be substantial. The when practicable. Company Limited remains in liquidator’s role is to continue to receivership and the receiver’s identify and realise the assets of SIB, For further information investors and continue with their investigations. agree the claims of the creditors and creditors should visit investors and, in due course, effect a www.vantisplc.com/Stanford or email The liquidation proceedings have distribution of realised assets. [email protected] commenced following the receivership

also discussion on UWI Officials Pay plans for the university to play a Courtesy Call On more prominent role Education Minister in campus education services in the region. On Wednesday 15th April, two officials Dr. Leandro said from the University of the West Indies government’s vision School of Continuing Education paid a for the establishment courtesy call on Education Minister Dr. of the University of Antigua and Barbuda will be shared with UWI’s Vice Chancellor Professor E. Nigel Harris, when he Education Minister accepts gift from Mr. Ian Benn visits sometime in of the UWI Extra Mural Department the future.

The University of Antigua and She pointed out that building the Barbuda is a campaign promise by country’s human resource capacity is the UPP administration, as outlined in of paramount importance, hence the the “Defending the Nation” manifesto. need to improve the level of service (l to r) Education Minister Dr. the Hon. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro, Mr. Ian Benn It will be established in collaboration offered by the university to the public. Head of UWI EMD Antigua and with the University of the West Indies, Programme Officer Allison Hull of UWI with existing tertiary-level institutions The meeting was described as providing the initial platform. successful, as Dr. Leandro continues to familiarize herself with the workings the Hon. Jacqui Quinn-Leandro. Head The Education Minister noted that as a in the education system. of the University Centre Antigua Ian member of the Alumni of the University Benn and Programme Officer for UWI of the West Indies, she is more than Open Campus Allison Hull, updated Dr. happy to assist in whatever way she Leandro on the current work of the can in her capacity as Education open campus, their plans for the Minister to advance the cause of the upcoming academic year, and the institution. challenges they encounter. There was

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Statement by friendly countries, who themselves are undergoing severe fiscal challenges Honourable Harold and constraints. In addition, financial Lovell institutions that, in the past, have been a source of financing for the Minister of Finance, the Government are themselves Economy and Public experiencing liquidity issues. Administration It was in this context that, under my April 23, 2009……. Upon assuming directive, and with full authority under the reins of Government in March the Finance Administration Act, the 2004, the United Progressive Party Financial Secretary issued a Circular Administration was cognizant of the to Permanent Secretaries and Heads fact that the fiscal situation was dire of Departments, outlining a number of and unsustainable. Consequently a critical measures that must be process of fiscal transformation was implemented without delay. The instituted, commencing with Revenue implementation of the measures Reform which included a reform of our outlined has received the full blessing tax structure and of our revenue of the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda administration. and is an initial step in the development of a fiscal consolidation Honourable Harold Lovell programme. The Ministry of Finance Minister of Finance, the Economy and We have, for the most part, completed Public Administration our tax reforms with the re-introduction presented a menu of options that of the Personal Income Tax, the would form part of the fiscal cognizant that we, as a small and open introduction of the Antigua and consolidation programme for the economy, have limited policy options. Barbuda Sales Tax, and a consideration of Cabinet. These reformulation of the Property Tax. include measures to address In this connection, the NEST Plan will Institutional strengthening initiatives procurement practices, the be refined through widespread with respect to our Revenue management of government vehicles, consultation with the general public, Administration agencies remain the utility of rental quarters and the including Non-governmental ongoing. consumption of energy. Over the organizations, Community based medium term the process of Public organizations, Private Sector It was the intention of the UPP Sector Transformation will have to be organizations, and with Regional and administration that its next five years in embarked upon with the aim of having Sub-regional partners, as well as with office would be dedicated to reform on in place an efficient, cost-effective, bi-lateral and multilateral stakeholders. the expenditure side of the fiscal client-oriented Public Service. At this moment, the Cabinet of Antigua equation; however, given the global However, at this point, the and Barbuda is putting the necessary economic crisis and the attendant Government is not contemplating any mechanisms in place in order to effect on our fiscal situation, it has reduction in the public sector except facilitate the development and become imperative that we move with for the normal attrition. It is our implementation of the NEST Plan purpose and with urgency to effect the expectation that the fiscal once we would have completed necessary reforms and adjustments consolidation measures will lead to consultations. that are required at this time, in order some level of stability towards the end to return us to a sustainable path. of 2009 and going into 2010 as long as The economic conundrum that the global situation does not confronts us requires that the solution These are indeed unprecedented deteriorate further. be grounded in a national response. times. The global recession is severely There are those who will view the affecting our major trading partners, The Government intends to unfold for current circumstances simply as an the United States of America, the consultation a broader plan to be opportunity for political posturing and United Kingdom, Continental Europe called the National Economic and partisanship, rather than an occasion and our CARICOM Countries, with a Social Transformation (NEST) Plan. for accord and consensus. The harsh and relentless impact on our The four major components of this plan Government however, shall remain economy and by extension the are the fiscal consolidation focused and committed to the goal of revenue streams derived from our programme, an economic stimulus national economic, social and fiscal major earner, Tourism. In combating package, financial sector stability, and transformation, and in this regard, and this very hostile economic a comprehensive social safety net. with the constructive assistance of all environment, the options available at stakeholders, shall lead the effort in this time to Antigua and Barbuda are The objective of the NEST Plan would achieving this goal. limited. In this regard, we are unable to be to strategically address our fiscal rely on the good will and generosity of and socio-economic concerns, fully

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Continued from page 14 environmental concerns. Seldom has specific regions or ethnic groups. These within an environment devastated by the the United Nations been called upon to countries are generally creditworthy and Cold War and confrontation between the do so much for so many. I am have some access to financial markets, two Blocs, as they were. It is a sad determined to breathe new life and inject but they face constraints in mobilizing reflection indeed that the challenges renewed confidence into a strengthened the funds they need to invest in then remain by and large the same United Nations firmly anchored in the infrastructure and essential services. challenges of today, albeit in an twenty-first century, and which is They also need help to reform policies environment without Cold War but one effective, efficient, coherent and and institutions in ways that improve the with proliferation of inter- and intra-state accountable." investment climate. conflicts and engulfed in a globalization Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon process that is marginalizing the South." The World Bank Group claims that it is We all should fully accept this statement working to meet middle-income I will first focus on the UN for a short and ask the questions what changes countries' specific needs with tailored while. The UN today comprises some should we expect, how will they be assistance that draws on an array of 192 member states with most of them implemented and when will we see the competitive financial products and achieving member status on attaining requisite changes. For the longer this is knowledge and learning services. These independence or shortly thereafter. in coming, the more disastrous will be countries are also increasingly important Antigua and Barbuda joined the UN on the consequence for many of the partners in its work to address critical the 11th November 1981 shortly after peoples of this world. I am fully aware cross-border and global issues, such as achieving full independence on the 1st that progress is being made for earlier clean energy, trade integration, November 1981. this year, the Secretary-General signed environmental protection, international performance pacts with his chief financial stability, and the fight against Small Developing States look to the UN operating officers to improve infectious diseases. and attach significant priority and transparency and accountability. This is importance to the following:- happening while efforts continue to The International Monetary Fund (IMF) · To solve the developmental make the institution more cost effective. is an organization of 185 countries, objectives of developing countries working to foster global monetary · To promote international The World Bank is one of the vital cooperation, secure financial stability, cooperation for economic and social sources of financial and technical facilitate international trade, promote development assistance to developing countries. high employment and sustainable · To the General Assembly to provide According to the details on its website its economic growth, and reduce poverty leadership to ensure fulfilment of social mission is to help developing countries around the world. The IMF's and economic goals enunciated in the and their people reach the development fundamental mission is to help ensure Charter of the UN goals by working with its partners to stability in the international system. It · For transparency and democracy in alleviate poverty. It addresses global does so in three ways: keeping track of the relations between the nations of the challenges in ways that advance an the global economy and the economies world inclusive and sustainable of member countries; lending to · To protect human rights and the globalization—that overcome poverty, countries with balance of payments dignity of mankind enhance growth with care for the difficulties; and giving practical help to Areas of suggested reform include: environment, and create individual members. 1. Human Rights Council opportunity and hope. 2. Peacebuilding Commission To assist mainly low- and middle-income 3. Secretariat/Management reform The three institutions of the World Bank countries in effectively managing their 4. Development/ECOSOC reform that Small States become members of economies, the IMF provides practical 5. Security Council Reform are the International Bank for guidance and training on how to 6. System-Wide Coherence Reconstruction and Development upgrade institutions, and design 7. General Assembly Revitalization (IBRD) with 185 members, the appropriate macroeconomic, financial, 8. HIV/AIDS International Finance Corporation (IFC) and structural policies. 9. UN Democracy Fund with 181 members and the Multilateral 10. Central Emergency Response Fund Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) The concerted opinion of the G77 is that 11. UNCTAD with 173. Most Caribbean states joined the way in which “the WB and the IMF the IBRD after independence with are managed is also inimical to bringing The Human Rights Council was Jamaica being the first in 1963 having about productive change (i.e. reform). revamped in March of 2006 and the obtained independence in 1962 and Rarely does management in the IMF Peacebuilding Commission in finally St. Kitts and Nevis in 1984. and WB aim at achieving a genuine and December 2005. Antigua and Barbuda joined the IBRD in effective service orientation on the part 1983, the IFC in 1987 and the MIGA in of staff towards their clients and The Secretary-General of the UN sums 2005. Each of the countries in the shareholders. Their performance is up the desire of many citizens of the Caribbean region except Guyana was measured by effort rather than outcome. world in his statement of UN reform: deemed a middle-income state and did When the outcomes are opposite to "Every day we are reminded of the need not qualify for assistance with debt relief. those expected, that is invariably the for a strengthened United Nations, as fault of incompetent, insincere, we face a growing array of new The Challenge which is faced by the WB unprincipled and politically supine challenges, including humanitarian is that Middle-income countries are still governments; never the fault of the IFIs crises, human rights violations, armed home to most of the world's poor people, in designing and advocating the conflicts and important health and often with a heavy concentration in wrong (occasionally lethal) prescriptions.

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PM Spencer Meets with Integration Project Team

In pursuit of their mandate to develop a comprehensive report on the project on the establishment of a single economy and appropriate political integration between Trinidad and Tobago and Eastern Caribbean States, the integration project team led by Dr Vaughan Lewis arrived in Antigua yesterday for consultations with the Prime Minister and other senior officials.

The project team assigned to Antigua and Barbuda comprised Ambassador Prime Minister Spencer and the Integration Team at the Cuthbert Joseph of Trinidad and Office of the Prime Minister Tobago and Ambassador Earl Huntley of St Lucia, apart from Dr Lewis himself. Digital photo compliments Ambassador Colin Murdoch The full project team also included Dr Wayne Sandiford, Dr Velma Newton, relations configurations necessary for commitments remained still to be and Dr Carl Mitchell. success. implemented, and that completing all the legal, administrative and financial Dr Lewis explained that his team had Prime Minister Spencer welcomed actions required was proving a come to examine the prospects and such a distinguished team to Antigua challenge, especially for some of the constraints on the development of a and Barbuda and recalled the public smaller administrations in the grouping. single economy between the countries service given by the team members in of the eastern Caribbean, including various capacities in the past. He The meeting engaged in a wide-ranging appropriate arrangements for the stated that while Antigua and Barbuda discussion which addressed the metropolitan overseas territories in the endorsed the concept of the regional challenges of the current OECS and single space such as Guadeloupe and integration project, he cautioned the CSME arrangements especially the Martinique. In his presentation Dr team that particular attention had to be regional institutions. Lewis emphasized that the integration paid to the current global economic project was intended to work in tandem crisis and its effects on the region in The meeting was also attended by with current arrangements, including order to truly assess the project’s Ambassadors Colin Murdoch and CSME, OECS economic union and viability. Clarence Henry of the Ministry of CARIFORUM obligations. Finance. Mr Spencer spoke of the OECS The team is expected to look at issues economic union project, which has After the engaging exchanges, Dr relating to monetary cooperation; been launched already in several of the Lewis committed to returning with his current migration patterns; human OECS member states. He confirmed team to Antigua and Barbuda soon in resource requirements; social security that there was much work to be done order to advance the consultations viability; air and maritime transportation, under that project with the current even further. including utilization of maritime spaces deadline of December 2009. In addition, for fisheries, energy and environmental the Prime Minister drew attention to the uses; as well as the security, political, fact that many aspects of the CSME constitutional and international DR. CORT DELIVERS TO has already sourced an ambulance (in keeping with his promise to CLARE HALL CLINIC! Senator the keep upgrading the facility so that Honourable the elderly can get to and from the Dr Errol L. On Wednesday April 22nd Dr. Errol clinic and/or Mt. St. John’s Hospital Cort, UPP‘s candidate for St. John’s quickly) in the event of any Cort, Rural East, delivered on one more emergencies. Minister of of his promises to assist the Clare National Hall Clinic with a fully loaded Dr. Maria Pereira accepted the Security computer for their record-keeping computer on behalf of the clinic and department. Dr. Cort also used the thanked Dr. Cort for his tireless occasion to inform the staff that he contributions to the community.

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Continued from page 17 IMF during its period of difficulties in the According to the South Centre This attitude is not difficult to 1970s. speaking on behalf of G77 the understand when the IFIs have fallen application of these four tenets is into the unfortunate habit of acting as a The WTO began life on 1 January 1995, fraught with problems for developing higher tier of supra-national discipline but its trading system is half a century countries. The principle of one- with the power of sanctions over the older. Since 1948, the General member-one vote may allow a governments to which they lend and Agreement on Tariffs and Trade theoretical equality to developing whose performance they monitor. (GATT) had provided the rules for the countries with their more developed system. (The second WTO ministerial counterparts, but the consensus-based The nature of these barriers to reform meeting, held in Geneva in May 1998, method of decision-making assumes makes it difficult to challenge the included a celebration of the 50th the informed presence of developing presumption of reform being essential. anniversary of the system.) countries in all meetings. To the contrary they make a powerful case for how urgently it is needed. No The last and largest GATT round, was Many developing countries find that one seems to be arguing these days the Uruguay Round which lasted from they are unable to fulfil this requirement that the IFIs do NOT need reforming. 1986 to 1994 and led to the WTO’s and find themselves considerably Yet, though the need for reform is creation. Whereas GATT had mainly disadvantaged in comparison to the widely acknowledged, the case for dealt with trade in goods, the WTO and developed countries that have large reform is more muddled. Precisely its agreements now cover trade in and well-prepared delegations. The what such reforms should embrace, services, and in traded inventions, member-driven character of the WTO and how they should be brought about, creations and designs (intellectual means that the Secretariat is neither still eludes adequate definition, leave property). mandated to nor capable of giving alone commanding wide consensus. developing countries the Often talked about, whether Antigua and Barbuda has been a representation and assistance they grandiosely or incrementally, the shape member of this institution of 153 need to be on par with the developed of IFI reform is still perceived in a members since the 1st January 1995. countries. As a result, the power vague, ephemeral silhouette. It is Since the operation of this institution asymmetries outside the institution discussed in generalities without hinges on negotiation, in its current also get translated into the decision- concrete shape or form. format size and economic influence making processes of the WTO. The matter significantly. Though there are importance of informal processes in More often than not, whenever calls for provisions for developing and least- building consensus among over 140 reform -- of the IFIs, or the functioning developing member states, the members offers some important of the international financial system, or process of participation is costly and at advantages, but also produces of its architecture -- are made, the case times very demanding. If unable to additional costs for developing is ineptly argued; even by the so-called resolve differences through countries. These costs include lack of experts. There is as yet no solid negotiations, members resort to transparency in extending invitations to theoretical underpinning, political or dispute resolution procedures. Here as small group meetings, certain protocols economic, which is rigorously argued we in Antigua and Barbuda have found of interaction that have led delegates to to provide an acceptable intellectual out, getting a judgement in one’s favour speak of the ‘English Club atmosphere’ basis for significant reform. There has and changing the behaviour of the of the WTO, excessive reliance on the been no unifying theme behind the other party in the trade dispute is not so chairpersons as mediator and calls for reform which have been made easily achieved. facilitator of the negotiations in the recently, except that the world is now absence of rules and so forth. Finally, facing a series of financial crises with There are four principles which in the procedural issues, such as the timing contagion effects which we do not eyes of developing countries are tenets and venue of the Ministerials, the seem to be able to anticipate or cope of the operations of the WTO. They can nature of technical assistance, and with properly. And, therefore, the IMF be listed as follows:- problems of both omission and and WB must be reformed to do · One-member one-vote commission that derive from the nature something about it.” · Consensus based voting of the WTO Secretariat also affect the · Member-driver character participation of developing countries in There is much support for many of the · The prevalence of informal an adverse way.1 above positions by members of the processes Caribbean Community. Often the The pictures I have painted appear very statement is made that in our region The application of these four tenets bleak for the involvement of small the example of overreaching pressures calls for a certain mode of behaviour states in any international institution. by the above institutions and failures to between members. If a particular There is one other institution which has realise the negative social impact of the trading benefit is offered to one taken up the fight on behalf of several consequences of their member then it is also available to all small developing states and which recommendations can be seen in other WTO members. There are a few represents a unique grouping of 53 Jamaica and Guyana. It is also felt that exceptions to this principle but these countries of the world. The Jamaica has never recovered from fully are only allowed under very strict 1 “South Centre ‘WTO Decision-Making and adopting the recommendations of the conditions. Developing Countries”

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19 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 132 - March/April 2009

Continued from page 19 paradigm which will result in a fairer ensure the smooth flow of trade Commonwealth is a very special world and a more participatory mode of between trading partners, to reduce grouping of rich and poor nations, organisational dynamics. protectionism and safeguard the rights developed and developing, a of all parties to the transaction. Here population size of around 1 billion Let me finish by recapping just a few too are a few areas where reform is people and a common principle of brief remarks on the four selected needed:- consulting and co-operating in the institutions. a. Reduce all attempts to use size to common interests of their peoples circumvent natural justice and and in the promotion of international 1. The IMF and WB were formed to decisions of the dispute settlement understanding. bring stability to a world in the 1940s tribunals. that is very different to the interlinked b. Avoid at all cost attempt to form The modern Commonwealth is sixty globalised world of today. Though the exclusive mini-groups. (60) years old this year and has in its objectives and ideals were, and still Let me end by leaving you with this lifetime magnified the voice of the may be, deemed laudable, the level of quotation: under-privileged few. It was discontent about many of the IMF and instrumental in the fight against WB’s projects has reached a ‘History has shown that the greatest apartheid, the restoration the rule of resounding wail. For every instance dangers to international stability often democracy in several member states where there is a case of success, critics arise from those nations whose real and has now joined the cry for reform of point to at least one case where these power is inadequately reflected in the the international institutions. In its institutions have caused tremendous relevant sets of international Marlborough House Statement issued dislocation and social disorder. Here arrangements and symbols of status in London on the 10th June 2008 the are just a few areas where there could therein. Such nations can challenge the Commonwealth Secretariat released be reform:- legitimacy of the system with actions as the following action points: a. The institutions need to be less well as rhetoric. Much of the current · We intend to accelerate UN intrusive call for a new international economic reforms and their effective b. There should be a widening of the order flows directly from such concerns, implementation, as a matter of urgency, criteria used to measure success and a major need in the current phase through lobbying and advocacy in the c. There should be more recognition of institution-building is to bring UN itself as well as other international of the social impact of policy developing countries into effective for a implementation and assistance offered. participation in the international system. · We intend to pursue the redefining of the purposes and governance of the 2. The UN needs to restore its First, serious and sustained attention Bretton Woods Institutions, including credibility. Once again this institution must be paid to their substantive working towards a Commonwealth has done much good work, but it is concerns. In terms of broad objectives, consensus and wider international constantly being challenged to put this requires the international economic support for an international conference down criticism of its effectiveness in system to attach priority to issues of to achieve these goals. addressing some of the world’s current income and wealth distribution as well · We intend to pursue the possibility crises. Its officers are sometimes as the more traditional goals of of an international conference to accused of corruption and other efficiency and growth. A second achieve improved global environmental humanitarian abuses all of which take essential step is to provide major governance, including the possibility of away from its acceptance. Here then developing countries with a role in the a new international organisation or are a few suggested areas of reform : international decision-making process reform of existing arrangements, again a. Widen the representation on the which corresponds to their sharply working on the basis of a Security Council especially the increased importance to the system. A Commonwealth consensus and wider permanent members (currently 5) and third step is to go still further and bring international support. the non-permanent members (currently selected "newcomers" into the inner · We intend, individually and 10). circles of international decision-making.’ collectively, to carry forward our reform b. Limit the application of veto power Quoted from: The Trilateral agenda to relevant international for a. by the permanent members to very Commission (© 1976) We will seek to enlarge the breath of specific cases. international commitment to our c. Improve the performance and Commonwealth reform agenda, and effectiveness of its many subsidiaries call on others to join us in this d. Reduce waste and corruption endeavour. HE Dr Carl Roberts I believe it their sixtieth year of 3. The WTO is the only international High Commissioner existence, the Commonwealth is at the institution dealing with the global rules Antigua and Barbuda threshold of a new representational of trade between nations. It attempts to Presented Monday 9th March, 2009

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