The High Commission

Official Newsletter - Issue 130 -- November/December 2008

Cariforum-EU EPA ready for implementation

Prime Minster, Baldwin Spencer, has During his presentation in Parliament, He said the process of implementation announced that the Cariforum-EU PM Spencer acknowledged that many is a long, ongoing one and people will EPA has been ratified and is poised stakeholders have expressed that they be engaged in many EPA discussions to enter the implementation phase. do not know enough about the in the months to come. agreement. “The trade and commerce sector of the Ministry of Finance will be having continuous public engagements with stakeholders,” PM Spencer said.

According to Michele Lowe, senior co- ordinator for hemispheric and bilateral relations in the Regional Negotiating Machinery (CRNM), ratification is the first step to legally incorporating commitments into law. While many believe that signing the Cariforum-EU EPA in mid-October was the first step to binding Antigua and Barbuda to the agreement legally, Lowe told the Antigua Sun that one cannot have “entry into force” of an agreement, unless there is ratification. Antigua and Barbuda, Lowe said, is now legally bound to make sure it does not do anything to frustrate the spirit of the EPA. Entry into force will not come right Governor-General H. E. Dame Louise Lake-Tack inspecting the away, Lowe stated, it will only come Guard of Honour at the Independence Day celebrations when both sides complete the ratification process. Continue on page 4 In This Issue 1. Delores Lovell Scholarship Award launched .... Page 7 2. Antigua and Barbuda adds excitement to World Travel Market .... Pages 9 and 10 3. Antiguan Flagged Vessel hijacked in Gulf of Aden ...page 13 Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

HIGH COMMISSIONER’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE DECEMBER 2008

In the world today, there is so much fear and uncertainty. The plans which we would have painstakingly made for a bright future have gone up in smoke. Our savings and pension have significant values. Should we not be calling to mind our Lord’s admonition not to lay up for ourselves treasures on earth? Yet, we, like the farmer in another story related in the Bible, feel the need to provide our own assurance of the future without the help of Jesus.

Some time ago someone circulated this message by George Carlin which reminds me of the world today:

“The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom. We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.

His Excellency and Mrs Roberts We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble Another twelve months have past and as we take time crossing the street to meet a new neighbour. We out to think of our own families near to us and those conquered outer space but not inner space. We've family members far from us, let us also bear in mind done larger things, but not better things. the words of our Lord “love thy neighbour as thyself”. Let us take time to think of others who during what We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've would normally be a happy and festive period are conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write devoid of much happiness. They may have lost their more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish jobs, their homes or family members or maybe one of less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more of the above. To them the desire to celebrate the more computers to hold more information, to produce joyous commemoration of the birth of the Saviour of more copies than ever, but we communicate less and the world has waned. There is instead sadness, less. emptiness and heartache. These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, I was watching a movie with my wife one December big men and small character, steep profits and shallow evening and was warmed by the friendly gesture of a relationships. These are the days of two incomes but family who received a US Vietnam Veteran into their more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. home and brought back into his life happiness and These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, warmth, love and laughter. In return he brought hope throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight and the joy of Christmas. Sometimes we have to be bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, reminded that it is necessary to give in order to receive. to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom A small mustard seed cannot turn into a tree until and window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when unless it gives up its body as food for the young shoot. technology can bring this letter to you, and a time

Continue on page 3

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Continued from page 2 Remember, to say, 'I love you' to Life is not measured by the number your partner and your loved ones, of breaths we take, but by the when you can choose either to share but most of all mean it. A kiss and an moments that take our breath away.” this insight, or to just hit delete... embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. I therefore take this opportunity to Remember; spend some time with wish each of you on behalf of my your loved ones, because they are Remember to hold hands and family and me, the staff of the High not going to be around forever. cherish the moment for someday Commission and the Government of Remember, say a kind word to that person will not be there again. Antigua and Barbuda, a Merry someone who looks up to you in awe, Christmas and a Happy New Year. because that little person soon will Give time to love, give time to speak! May God continue to bless and grow up and leave your side. And give time to share the precious protect each and everyone of you thoughts in your mind. now and in 2009. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent. H.E Dr Carl B. Roberts

Central Marketing Corporation and the citizens on the payment of their utility Government Fisheries Complex during the initial bills. “Once again we are able to use stages of the programme. The project the funds associated with the Petro Announces New is expected to be expanded later to Caribe Initiative to come to the Benefit Programme supermarkets owned by citizens assistance of the most vulnerable in throughout Antigua and Barbuda. our society. My government is once for two Vulnerable again demonstrating that we are “The project is targeted at some 2,000 serious about putting people first. Our Groups in Society individuals of which, approximately programmes are designed to ensure 500 will fall in the disabled category, that every citizen including our The Government of Prime Minister the with the remainder comprising disabled and elderly live comfortable Hon. Baldwin Spencer has announced disadvantaged households. The lives,” said the Prime Minister. another benefit programme to assist Peoples Benefit Card will be issued in two vulnerable groups in the society. conjunction with a local indigenous “With over 2000 persons benefiting bank, the ABI Bank and will require the from this new programme, my During the presentation of the 2009 placement of point of sale debit card government is ensuring that we Speech from the Throne on Monday, swipe machines to process payments positively impact the disposable 24th November, Governor-General at the respective merchants. The income and quality of life of the Dame Louise Lake-Tack announced merchants would be guaranteed same disabled and the economically that the government, in conjunction day processing of payment as with any disadvantaged,” he noted. with PDC Caribe Antigua and Barbuda, commercial debit or credit card,” will be introducing an initiative called Dame Louise announced. At a monthly subsidy of EC$200 per the People’s Benefit Programme person the project is estimated to cost which will offer tangible assistance in Each month every recipient’s card will the Government some EC$4.8M the form of a monthly benefit to the be topped up to the value of EC$200 annually. disabled and the economically dollars with the unused portion of the disadvantaged. monthly benefit expiring at of Government has already appointed a each month. nine-member committee made up of Dame Louise outlined that the project stakeholders from several civic and involves the issuance of a Commenting on the project, Prime non-governmental organizations to debit card to programme beneficiaries Minister Spencer said that this oversee the programme. This which will be used to purchase food programme follows the Senior Citizens committee will have final approval of and personal household items at the Utility Subsidy Programme which all applications to the programme. provides financial assistance to senior May this Christmas bring you an abundance of joy and happiness. We wish you a very prosperous New Year

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western section of the building. He Project Manager Zenworth Davis said Work on Public continued, “Once that has been besides the recent weather conditions, completed, they will start the there are challenges with respect to Library continues plastering and then move on to the the correction of certain work on the eastern section where they will also building, which had not received any The Honourable Bertrand Joseph, put on the roof. The construction is work for some time. He said they are Minister of Education recently coming along nicely in terms of the working seriously to correct the areas, remarked that despite the timeline that we have identified for the which were not taken into unfavourable weather conditions, work completion of the project.” consideration since the project was on the National Public Library is priced based on the bill of quantity. progressing smoothly. Minister Joseph also said that he is heartened that every time he visits the According to the Minister, contractors site, contractors are very busy at work. have already put on the roof on the descent, will need to not through the High Commission) Passport provide a copy of the the application form must be parent’s photo certified by the appropriate person Procedures for identification (e.g. resident in Antigua (See section 9 first-time passport) through whom and note 6 of Form M OR Section 9 entitlement to citizenship and note 7 of Form L). applicants is obtained. LEGALIZATION (Apostille) 3. All applicants must Please note that effective provide the name of a immediately, all first-time applicants Please note that all non-Antiguan Referee in Antigua and for Antigua and Barbuda passport and Barbudan documents have to Barbuda known by the must be interviewed (in person at be legalized, which in the UK can be applicant or his/her the High Commission or by done by the Foreign and parent. telephone) and the following Commonwealth Office documents (in addition to birth (www.fco.gov.uk). Only certified certificates etc.) have to be REMINDER copies/original documents are produced: acceptable. Please see notes. RENEWALS 1. The parents of APPLICATION FORMS applicants under age 16 An application can also be submitted must be interviewed and on your next visit to Antigua or you Application forms can be a copy of their could authorise (written downloaded from the Government’s photograph identification authorisation) a family member or website (e.g. passport) be friend living in or travelling to Antigua www.antiguabarbuda.gov.ag or from produced for our records. to do so on your behalf. Please note the High Commission’s website that, if the applicant is not resident in www.antigua-barbuda.com 2. Applicants over age 16, Antigua and the application is if claiming citizenship by submitted directly in Antigua (and

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Contrary to statements made about Antigua and Barbuda’s legal entry into the Cariforum-EU EPA, Lowe told the SUN that, “Antigua and Barbuda is not the last to ratify; it is the second country to ratify. All others have done provisional applications.” In these countries, what was needed was just a Cabinet note, which is passed through Cabinet, after which the other side (in this case the EU) is notified that the necessary procedures have been put into place to provisionally apply the agreement. Antigua and Barbuda’s laws do not allow it to undertake provisional application; therefore, the EPA was fast-forwarded to the ratification process. Lowe said there is much to do after the ratification which will allow Antigua and Barbuda to fully implement its obligations and commitments under the EPA. Source: Antigua Sun

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Campbell, a Canadian, brings a wealth Jeffers is filling the post left vacant by Philip Campbell, of experience to his new position with Inspector Cornelius Charles almost over 35 years experience in law two weeks ago. Jeffers has been an New Deputy enforcement.“ At the conclusion of his officer in the Royal Antigua and Commissioner of formal education, he enrolled as a Barbuda Police Force for almost 26 member of the Royal Canadian years. He has worked in a number of Police Mounted Police (RCMP). Following departments in the Force, including A new Deputy Commissioner of Police basic training in Regina and the Special Patrol Group (SPG), the has been appointed to join the Saskatchewan, he was posted to the Narcotics Department and the executive team of the Royal Police “J” division, Province of New Brunswick. Immigration Department, which was Force of Antigua and Barbuda. In addition, Inspector Everton Jeffers once a department of the Force. has been officially announced as head Jeffers is presently a part of the long- Philip Campbell fills the fourth and final of the police’s Strategic standing Medical Benefits Scheme position of the team, a position Communications department (MBS) investigation team. previously held by Acting (Stratcom). Commissioner Thomas Bennette.

This is similar to negotiations under overview of the CARIBCAN New trade the recently ratified Cariforum-EU Agreement at that meeting. agreement with EPA, whereby the EU pledged 165 million Euros to Cariforum, to be One of the aspects of the proposed on the funded through the European agreement involves an emphasis on Development Fund (EDF). “asymmetrical obligations”, which horizon mimics the “asymmetrical reciprocity” Both these funds, however, will be term used to describe trade Antigua and Barbuda, under the distributed, more or less, on a “first concessions in the Cariforum-EU umbrella of CARICOM, is preparing come first serve” basis, a point EPA. to embark on negotiations of yet which Trade Co-ordinator, another trade agreement, this time Ambassador Dr. Clarence Henry has Under previous trade agreements, with Canada. emphasised as being the reason countries like Antigua and Barbuda, why Antigua and Barbuda must try were given special and differential The CARICOM-Canada hard to stay ahead in organising its treatment because of factors such (CARIBCAN) agreement will be one demands. as geographic and economic size, in which the rules that govern free competitive ability and supply-side trade, as determined by the World “We must ensure that Antigua and constraints. Trade Organisation (WTO), will Barbuda takes its planning activities inform any future trading between to the table first. In the past, when it Under the CARIBCAN, countries like CARICOM member states and came to regional resources, we Antigua and Barbuda will still receive Canada. tended to wait and acted late, while differential treatment, but to a lesser others had more or less, taken all degree as informed by this notion of Under the CARIBCAN agreement, and left none for us.” “asymmetrical obligation”. Canada has pledged CDN$600 million to CARICOM members for Some of the other aspects of the Lowe also noted commitments to assistance in those countries, which CARIBCAN agreement were development of Caricom member properly identify the specific areas discussed at Tuesday’s meeting for states made on the part of Canada, where development support is being various stakeholders. which will manifest themselves in sought. various ways including the delivery Michele Lowe, senior trade policy of technical and financial assistance advisor for the CRNM, presented an to CARICOM.

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Commonwealth enabling them to complete their sec- Countries ondary or high League (CCL) school education Fair where, without such help, they would be On the 7th and 8th November 2008 unable to do so. Antigua and Barbuda was one of over 30 Commonwealth Countries The main funding for participating at the CCL Fair held at the charity comes the Kensington Town Hall. from the annual Mrs Pauline Roberts Commonwealth Fair Organizer of Antigua and Barbuda’s Stall and Committee Member of the Commonwealth Fair 2008 “Since 1925 the Commonwealth held in London Countries League has worked to pro- during November. Donations are Our stall, as usual, featured mote the development, education also received from companies and Antiguan made arts and crafts, and empowerment of women. individuals but if the work is to Antiguan rum, rum punch, fudge, Through its charity, the CCL Educa- continue and expand the sugar cakes, cakes, peanut sugar tion Fund, formed in the 1960’s, it organization needs all the help it can cakes and much more. sponsors girls of proven potential get.” Source:http://www.ccl- int.org.uk/education

further highlight the Antigua and culinary geniuses of our Barbuda chefs and their cuisines." participates at Appearing at the Antigua and Barbuda Gourmet Food and booth was Chef Wayne Forde. Forde has had a Wine Expo number of years experience as a chef and currently holds the Antigua and Barbuda was position of Senior Sous represented for the first time at the Chef at The Verandah 14th Gourmet Food and Wine Expo Resort, where he has held at the Metro Toronto Convention worked since October Centre in Ontario, Canada from 20th - 2007. Chef Wayne Forde 23rd November. Senior Sous Chef at the Verandah Resort The menu The over 35,000 visitors showcased a range of Antiguan and resides in Canada, rounded off the sampled the culinary delights of the Barbudan dishes over the four day team as the bartender. twin island state. period, which included pumpkin and ginger soup, salt fish cakes, corn Norris utilized the well- According to Erica Henry- bread and peas stew, veggi pepperpot Jackman, Sales and Marketing renowned English Harbour Rum to and fungi, sugar cakes, and guava serve up cocktails. Manager for the Antigua and Barbuda cheese. Tourism Office (Canada), "This was the perfect opportunity for the The Gourmet Food and Wine Assisting him in preparing the Expo offers visitors an extensive array Canadian Office to continue our very dishes was Chef Keith Otto and Chef successful 15 month Culinary Tourism of fine wines and specialty foods from David Richards, who are both around the world. campaign, featuring Antigua's English Antiguan chefs residing in Canada. Harbour Rum. It also allowed us to Elmore Norris, another Antiguan who

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and she attempted to pass that name of the winner engraved as a high Delores Lovell message on that it doesn’t matter who achiever. The other students were you are or your background, you can recipients of book prizes. Scholarship Award attain greatness if you set your mind to launched achieve.” Chief Education Officer Jacintha Pringle fully endorses the scholarship Latrisha Robinson, Kady Merrifeld and award. Tracy St. Aimee of the Mary E. Pigott Akeem Michael were the other School has become the first recipient students in the running for the award. “It is a great motivation for grade six of the “Delores Lovell” scholarship They were all interviewed by a panel of students, who need such citizens to award, which will be given annually to judges, which included Kathleen Flax, assist them. high achievers of that institution. niece of Mary E. Pigott, and were questioned on their future aspirations Many of them can do with the The presentation was made to St. even as they prepare to proceed additional help, and once they know Aimee, who recently completed the through secondary school. there are individuals who are willing to Junior Secondary examination at the support them, they will strive to do school’s annual graduation exercise, The panel was said to be impressed better.” by Sandra Lovell-West. with the responses given by the students, and spoke about how Mrs. Pringle pointed out that the Mrs West, a daughter of the late articulate and intelligent they all were, Ministry of Education should make it Delores Lovell explained that the but St. Aimee stood out the most. She its duty to track those high achievers scholarship is in memory of her late received a one thousand dollar through their school years. By so mother who was taught by Mary E. scholarship, which has been placed in doing, she thinks it will “encourage Pigott, a woman who had a huge a fixed deposit. Mrs. West says it is to them to maintain a high level of impact on her life while she attended teach the student to “begin a life of academic success.” the St. John’s Girls’ School. thrift.” Sandra Lovell-West who resides in “My mother attended the Girls’ School Additionally, the winner received a Trinidad says she hopes to improve and was impressed with the way in replica of a challenge trophy, which the scholarship offering in the future. which Miss Pigott dealt with students, will be kept at the school, with the

loved ones... How many people Maginley enquired what they were Governor-general from other countries have been doing and was told that they were treated here…” using their off time to practice on visits Holberton the new systems, so that they With that said, Maginley expressed would be better prepared once the Governor-General Dame Louise his congratulations to the student move to Mount St. John Medical Lake-Tack, on her annual visit to nurses and staff at Holberton, who Centre is opened. Holberton Hospital on Wednesday, have kept on despite what 17 December was quick to spread Maginley called, people’s He stated, “That’s what dedication some Christmas cheer and to insistence on “crying down” the is all about.” commend the staff for their work institution. during the year, most likely the last Also, according to Maginley, he at that venue. Permanent Secretary at the understands the impatience Ministry, John Jarvis, touched on people feel when they are in The inevitable move to Mount St. that point as well saying, “I feel emergency care or with their loved John was brought up from time to badly when on the radio, people ones and it feels like too much time time during the ceremony’s seem to take delight in bashing passes before they are seen. proceedings, which caused many those who work at to reflect on what Holberton Holberton…Folks at Holberton go He reminded those present that Hospital has meant to Antigua over way beyond the call of duty not for doctors and nurses are “not the years. remuneration but out of love.” machines that can be plugged in and plugged out,” but human Health Minister John Maginley, Maginley also shared that while beings. stated, “What will be our visiting Mount St. John’s yesterday, legacy?...think of how many he found some nurses in one of the He said, “Unless you have a true persons were born out of this rooms. appreciation of what it takes to be hospital… How many have spent a a health care professional, you sleepless night here concerned for should not condemn them.”

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Keva Margetson laid to rest The Holy Family Roman Catholic Cathedral was overflowing with people who gathered to say goodbye to Keva Joan Margetson on Friday 5th December.

The service, led by Celebrant the Most Rev. Donald J. Reece and punctuated, as it were, by touches that were distinctly Keva flavoured, said a fitting farewell to a much-loved and respected woman.

Keva, who died on the 30th November following a five-month battle with colon cancer, was laid to rest in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration.

From the sweetness of the breeze that flowed freely through the cathedral’s wide open windows to the choice of hymns tunefully emitted from both choir and congregants, Keva’s life was reviewed with thanks and Antigua and Barbuda praise.

Steelpan Icon, Ushers, in national dress matched the attire of the choristers; the fabric that Keva felt was Leroy “Jughead” important enough to campaign for, reached even Bishop Reece’s mitre and gown, Gordon, Passes the colours repeated in the single wreath, a mix of white anthuriums, lilies and light red roses resting upon the coffin. Away at 61 Those blessed with the gift of having known Keva, nodded in agreement when adjectives like independent, panache, energy and serving were used to describe The steelband fraternity and other her and what her life stood for. community members of Antigua and Barbuda will greatly miss one of its Those who did not know Keva or had merely received the blessing of an well-known steelband cultural icons, encounter with the spirited lady, gave testimony by their presence that she had Leroy “Jughead” Gordon, who passed nevertheless touched their lives. away on Thursday, November 13, 2008 after ailing for some time. Keva Margetson accompanied her parents from England to Antigua when she was six. The cute, smaller twin to Leslie and sister to Judy and Robin, started a Gordon, who was a founding love affair with Antigua to which she was ever faithful. member of the Harmonites International Steel Orchestra She was an inquisitive, industrious student who maintained throughout her life, a reportedly succumbed to heart failure strong sense of family loyalty. linked to cancer complications at the Winter's Medical Clinic in Antigua. What people will take from her funeral service is a memory of a woman who, as Gordon was still actively involved with D. Gisele Isaac said in her eulogy, squeezed every drop out of life. the Harmonites Steelband. Keva had a charisma that was integral to every organisation she worked for or A former president of the Antigua gave her time voluntarily to. and Barbuda Pan Association - on November 3, the nation’s 27th As a founding member of Professional Organisation for Women in Antigua anniversary of Independence - Gordon (POWA) she derived ways to keep the organisation alive and involved in matters had just been recognized for his pertinent to inhabitants of the country she loved. lifelong contribution to the country’s overall carnival culture, and the steel Isaac remarked that working with the Bank of Antigua, Keva’s conscientiousness band art form. He was bestowed the would have people convinced that the bank was Keva’s and not Sir R. Allen honour of ‘Officer of the Most Precious Stanford’s. Order of Princely Heritage.’ Bishop Reece in his homily paid tribute to Keva as a woman who lived life just as Leroy “Jughead” Gordon will be Jesus instructed that we should. missed by many. He shared with listeners Keva’s practice of spending moments of prayer in the sanctuary of the Cathedral.

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along the River Thames on ANTIGUA AND board The Silver Barracuda for BARBUDA ADDS their Annual Appreciation Party. The event was a fun-filled EXCITEMENT TO evening of rum punch, good food and traditional Antiguan WORLD TRAVEL hospitality!

MARKET Over one hundred UK-based travel agents, tour operators, To thank its trade and media airline representatives, hotel partners for their partnership and partners and members of the support during 2008, the Antigua press joined senior Minister Harold Lovell at the World Travel and Barbuda Tourist Office hosted a representatives from the twin Market (WTM) with HE Dr Carl Roberts, variety of exciting events in the run island nation, including Mrs. High Commissioner for Antigua and Barbuda up to World Travel Market, the Sharon Peters, Permanent on his left and on his right - HE Mr Paul Farquarhson, High Commissioner for The largest UK travel event of the year Secretary, Carol Hay, Director of Bahamas and Mrs Pauline Roberts

Capital of the Eastern Caribbean’, highlighting its many sporting events, festivals and the second Romantic Rhythms Music Festival to be held from 5-7 June, 2009.

On Sunday 9 November Antigua and Barbuda’s efforts were recognized by Virgin Holidays who presented the Tourist Office with its Bronze Award for “Best Destination Partnership.”

On Tuesday 11 November at World Travel Market, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office provided on- stand entertainment for Partners and UK media over drinks and traditional ‘Lionel Ritchie’ flanked by Tourism staff - left to right are Cherrie Osborne, Caribbean delicacies. Guest Carol Hay and Joyce Fyfe held at Excel in London between 10 Tourism for the UK and and 14 November. Europe, as well as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s To start off the celebrations, on most famous sons, Thursday 6 November the Antigua cricket celebrity, and Barbuda Tourist Office set sail Ambassador Richie Richardson.

Carol Hay thanked the partners for their continued support and twelve lucky raffle guests received a bottle of premium champagne (Above, right) Sir Viv Richards and HE Dr Carl Roberts at the WTM and the much sought after 5 year old English Harbour appearances included cricketing Antiguan rum. Carol used the legends Sir Vivian Richards and occasion to promote the Islands’ Richie Richardson, and a very Carol Hay, Director of Tourism UK focus for 2009 as the ‘Events special ‘Lionel Richie’ who & Europe

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Carol Hay, Director of Tourism UK & Europe commented: “2008 has been an eventful year for Antigua and Barbuda and we were very grateful for the support received at this year’s World Travel Market from partners and the media.

This event provides the Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office with the opportunity to create awareness of the destination and allows us to strengthen our partner relationships and gain new contacts. The event also provides us with an opportunity to thank those who have worked with us during the year at our annual Partners Appreciation Party. We are very pleased with the outcome of this year’s event and look forward to working with everyone in 2009”

Visitors to the Antigua and Barbuda Stand at the World Travel Market was given Antiguan-style hospitality serenaded the guests with a rendition of the well known song ‘Hello’ to promote the destination’s exciting Calendar of Events for 2009, including the Romantic Rhythms Music Festival. Carol stated, “We have a host of talented musicians in Antigua and the Music Festival enables us to showcase our local talent along with International stars.”

The Minister for Tourism Hon. Harold Lovell attended the event and met with various airlines, and tour operators to discuss initiatives for marketing Antigua and strengthening relations. Minister Lovell was joined by Mrs. Sharon Peters, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Carol Hay, Director of Tourism for the UK and Europe as well as representatives from the French and German Tourist Offices who also attended the four Minister of Tourism Hon. Harold Lovell flanked by Sir Viv Richards on his left and Ambassador Ritchie Richardson on his right day event.

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to education, to our work on the 60th right to freedom of opinion and expression and to our work on the Anniversary of right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well- being of the individual, and of the the Universal family.

Declaration of The Declaration enunciates so many of the principles at the heart Human Rights of our Commonwealth democracy work. It spells out the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, and to participate in the Message by government of one’s country. It Commonwealth establishes the right to work, and Secretary-General the principle of equal pay for equal work. Most fundamentally, it Kamalesh Sharma. declares that ‘All human beings are born free and equal in dignity “10th December 2008 marks 60 and rights’ – a principle at the years since the Universal heart of the Commonwealth. Declaration of Human Rights was Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma adopted by the General Assembly at a CARICOM meeting in Antigua It’s through work in schools and of the United Nations. and Barbuda, 2008 colleges – and in the workplace, © Copyright: the court, the police station and Commonwealth countries were Joseph Jones/Commonwealth the health clinic – that the most involved in its drafting then, and Secretariat important impacts of human rights they are involved in its work are felt. implementation today. As we in the Modern The Declaration reaches 60 years There has been a long and close Commonwealth seek to bring this of age just as the Commonwealth relationship between the countries vision of a life of dignity to our approaches its own 60th of the Commonwealth and the almost 2 billion people, there is so anniversary. promotion of human rights. much of our work which sees the Declaration turned into the Deeds On this day I salute the continued The Declaration champions the of the first decade of the 21st relevance and vision of the links between human dignity and century. Declaration, and commit our equal rights, and between freedom, collective and individual justice and peace. It is a statement The Declaration speaks to our Commonwealth efforts to make of principles, setting out ideals and Commonwealth work on the right real its aspirations. aspirations for all countries. WILD LIFE IMAGES

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through realizing national various disciplines and national CPTM visions”. Dialogues have been boundaries. held eight times in Langkawi, by Malaysia; seven times in Africa The national Hubs and Nodes (Uganda, Zambia) and two are sometimes referred to as HE Dr. Carl times in the Caribbean “Webs” and Caribbean webs are (). in operation in Antigua and Roberts Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, CPTM’s activities are backed by , , , In the first part of this mini- a small number of staff at the , , St. Lucia and series of articles covering the main office in London. The . The Commonwealth Partnership for office is called the London Hub theme of the international Technology Management and is supported by the National dialogue in Barbados in 1999 (CPTM), I looked at its Hubs and Nodes in several was “Smart partnership in Small formation and one aspect of countries including Barbados, States for the Development of Smart Partnership or Sharing. St. Lucia, Malaysia, Botswana, Wealth”. Other themes over the In this article I will address the Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland years addressed “global trends membership of the organisation and Uganda among others. in emerging economies”, and the base of its support “enhancing the climate for through Smart Partnership CPTM’s mission is to “enhance foreign direct investment”, Networkers. national capabilities for the “reconciling Development creation of and participation in challenges with global security CPTM’s membership is drawn global wealth, through sound through dialogue”, “poverty from the member states of the technology management and eradication through human Commonwealth along with using public / private sector capital development and public and private sector partnerships”. capacity building” “realizing organizations and many smart national visions through smart partner networkers. These “Smart partnership” is a partnership” and “Smart smart partner networkers are philosophy developed and partnership in economic professionals (current and practiced by CPTM Smart development and diversity” former senior company officials, Partners since the 1990’s. It is a among others. current and former senior civil proactive process carried out service officers and other through “real-time” networking, I will develop other aspects of significant entrepreneurs) who where the group collectively CPTM in my next article. freely give of their time and relies on individual Networkers experience, skills and knowledge and resources to Source: CPTM Website. knowledge in the spirit of Smart bring about outcomes of mutual Partnership practice “prosper benefit, in essence providing a thy – neighbour”. Each year the “win-win-win” situation for all Smart Partnership Movements those involved. “Dialoguing” is Dialogue “get – together” meets the prime vehicle through which in a particular country to discuss Smart Partnership is further and make suggestions for an promoted. Dialoguing in the integrated approach to critical Smart Partnership Fashion issues of national development enriches, sustains and expands under a theme which focuses this network for individuals: on current world issues. The each of whom possesses last dialogue was held in valuable hands-on experience Mulungushi Centre, Lusaka, and who, collectively, have Zambia, under the theme backgrounds that support “transforming communities

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Antigua and Barbuda to the United - On Tuesday December 16, Antiguan Flagged Nations and the International 2008 at about 12:00 noon Eastern Vessel Hijacked in Maritime Organisation have also European time, one Royal Navy been fully informed of the helicopter flew above the vessel and the Gulf of Aden developments. learned from the vessel’s Master “Crew members that seven (7) pirates were on board. The following details events as reported safe” reported to the Maritime Division of - Also on Tuesday via the Antigua and Barbuda by the ICC- vessel’s SSAS (Ship Security Alert On the 17th December the Maritime International Maritime Bureau System) which has been in Administration of Antigua and (Piracy Reporting Centre): operation continuously since the Barbuda announced that the hijacking, it appeared that the vessel Antigua and Barbuda flagged vessel - Late Monday December 15, under the control of the pirates was BOSPHORUS PRODIGY had been 2008, an alarm message was proceeding towards the city of EYL attacked and subsequently hijacked received by the ICC-International on the East Coast of Somalia. by armed pirates in the Gulf of Aden Maritime Bureau (Piracy Reporting in the Arabian Sea. Centre) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, - No further information is from the Antigua and Barbuda motor available at this time but it is Since the report of the hijacking, The vessel “BOSPHORUS PRODIGY” believed that the nine member crew Maritime Administration of Antigua Off. No. 2822, Call Sign V 2 P C 4, is safe. and Barbuda has been in close and stating that the Antigua and continuous contact with the vessel’s Barbuda flagged vessel had been The m/v BOSPHORUS PRODIGY Management Company in Istanbul attacked and subsequently hijacked whose registered owner is Naviblue to monitor the situation. in the Gulf of Aden by armed pirates Corporation of St. John’s, Antigua, is in two speed boats coming from the managed by Iskomarine Shipping The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in St. South. and Trading Inc. of Istanbul, Turkey John’s, Antigua along with the Permanent Representatives of

The session was also intended National School Meals CARDI swings its to inform those members of the Programme once they are door on 'open general public about the ready for harvest. research and development day' (R&D) CARDI undertakes as it The local CARDI post has also relates to food security, one of been working to satisfy the The Antiguan branch of the the institute's main focus. mandate its parent branch, in Caribbean Agricultural Trinidad & Tobago, has set for Research and Development Experiments are currently being the region. Institute (CARDI) has gone conducted at Betty’s Hope, the public about its endeavours for Greencastle Agricultural Station This dictates the need for seed the first time. and Cades Bay. production and so the institute has been working closely with The initiative, known as the This study seeks to determine Japanese consultants to keep CARDI Open Day Session, has which of the island’s agricultural its efforts up to scratch. been enacted at stations zones are most suitable for throughout the Caribbean growing sweet potatoes. Support for the venture will also region since 31 Oct., and be provided by the Japanese Wednesday 17th December That, however, is not the only government for labs and was Antigua and Barbuda’s turn. CARDI initiative. It also has a storage facilities. According to Dr. Gregory Robin, vegetable production the nation’s country programme in which corn, Acting as a seed repository is representative, holding the watermelon, table squash and another role of the local CARDI open day allows for pumpkin are being cultivated. branch. transparency and accountability These will go toward efforts to since the projects of the station enhance Antigua and are made public. Barbuda’s food security and the Source: Antigua Sun

13 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

ensuring only those who benefit course that meets a minimum level Strict new rules for Britain can come. Before they can of qualification. foreign students study here, foreign students must: They must also be able to be sponsored by a UKBA demonstrate they can financially The British Government has licensed education support themselves and any of their announced that foreign students institution; dependants. hoping to come to the UK to study prove that they have the means will have to meet strict new criteria, to support themselves and Students on courses for longer than their families while studying 12 months will have to show they The Home Office has published here; and have sufficient funds to pay their first proposals for much tighter rules for supply their fingerprints. year of fees, plus £9,600 to cover foreign students - and the their first year in the UK. universities and colleges hosting Stricter rules on work placements for them - under the student tier of its students will also ensure that the Students wishing to bring their new Points Based System. UK's labour market is protected. dependants with them will need to show they have a further £535 per All colleges and universities that Border and Immigration Minister month for each person they bring. want to recruit foreign students will Liam Byrne said “"All those who now need a licence to do so and will come to Britain must play by the In recognition of the many economic have to take greater responsibility rules. It is right that foreign students and cultural benefits that these for their international students, wanting to take advantage of our students bring to the UK, earlier this helping Government crack down on world-class universities and colleges year the Government announced a bogus colleges who abuse the must meet strict criteria.” special visa category allowing system. successful international students "By locking people to one identity with who have graduated from a British For the first time education providers ID cards, alongside a tough new university to work in the UK for up to face a ban on bringing over sponsorship system, we will know two years. international students if they fail to exactly who is coming here to study follow strict new rules - including and crack down on bogus colleges,” alerting the UK Border Agency he added. (UKBA) if students fail to enrol. Visas will only be granted to students Students will also face stringent new who show a proven track record in (Source: criteria if they want to study in the UK, education and are applying for a www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk)

Young Officer on the move in the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force

2nd Lieutenant Jamal Aska flanked by His Excellency Dr Carl Roberts and Mrs Roberts who was trained in the United Kingdom led a platoon in the Independence Day parade 2008 at the Antigua Recreation Grounds.

14 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

conditions in rural areas, and alleviate With regards to international Imbalanced EPA poverty. commodity agreements or supply Trade Negotiations: management systems, the modalities During the African Union Extraordinary provide for the possibility of Members “WTO-Plus” Conference, held in Arusha on 23 to take joint action through adoption of Requirements November 2005, African Ministers suitable measures, including through strongly emphasized the need to adoption of ICAs. ICAs may be address this problem of instable concluded either jointly by producing Peter Lunenborg commodity prices in the WTO and consuming countries or by negotiations of the Doha Development commodity-dependent producing Economic Partnership Agreements Round. The African Group countries only. The objective of such (EPAs) are free trade agreements consequently submitted a proposal for arrangements is the stabilization of between the EU, and as ultimately modalities for negotiations on prices of exports of agricultural envisaged, 9 African, Caribbean and agricultural commodity issues to the commodities at levels that are stable, Pacific (ACP) countries. In general, Committee on Agriculture at 7 June equitable and remunerative. any provisions in the EPAs go far 2006 (TN/AG/GEN/18). The ACP beyond World Trade Organisation Group, LDC Group, Bolivia and There is one important difference (WTO) requirements. This article Venezuela issued a declaration on between the African Group’s proposal focuses on one particular example: it ‘Development concerns and issues in and the July 2008 text: in the July 2008 states that the General Exceptions in the current WTO negotiations’ on the text, the potential role of UNCTAD or the EPAs are at odds with Art. XX 21st of June 2007 stating their support International Commodity GATT, the General Exceptions article for the submitted African Group Organizations in international of the GATT. General Exception proposal. commodity agreement negotiations clauses in all EPAs trample on the and technical assistance for such African Group position on commodities The proposal continues to receive a supply management systems, has and the July 2008 modalities on very strong backing from NGOs all been (TN/AG/W/4/Rev.3). commodities. The Article calls upon over the world, religious and the African Group and its supporters to missionary organizations, The modalities, almost identical to the reconfirm their stance on commodities development NGOs, and farmers’ widely supported African Group's and bring the July 2008 modalities on organizations in both the developed proposal, build upon the existing WTO commodities to life again. and developing world. In their common framework, specifically Art. XXXVIII position, the “Call for Action on the GATT on governmental assistance to The African Group Proposal on Crisis in Agricultural Commodities”, economic development and XX(h) Commodities: tackling commodity they express strong support for the GATT on the commodity agreement price instability African roup’s proposal. They invite all exception. These two articles, already the WTO member states to do likewise present in the WTO legal framework, Almost 100 developing countries and call for the policies outlined to be constitute the corner-stones in solving derive at least half of their export firmly supported and pursued through the commodity problem. earnings from commodities, meaning all relevant channels. they must contend with the problem of GATT XX General Exceptions and short-term instability of primary The policies outlined in the African Free Trade Agreements: commodity prices, which is greater Group’s proposal refer to tariff “copy-paste” than that of prices for non-primary escalation and non-tariff barriers, but tradable commodities. Most African the majority of the text is devoted to GATT XX is the General Exceptions countries depend on two to three main the adoption of an appropriate legal article, listing possibilities to impose primary commodity exports for the instrument clarifying GATT rules trade-restrictive measures for internal- bulk of their foreign exchange earnings. applicable to joint action by ly recognized important and necessary The rollercoaster of global commodity commodity-dependent producers, policy objectives, such as protection of prices, which can rise or fall by 50 per including international commodity public health or the environment. The cent or more in a year, makes sound agreements (ICAs). exceptions listed in Art. XX relate to all fiscal planning extremely difficult for of the obligations under the GATT; not both countries and producers. Many Transplantation of the African just the national treatment obligation smallholder firms cannot bear or share Group Proposal into the July 2008 and the most favoured nation obliga- the risks of swinging prices resulting in Modalities on Agriculture tion, but others as well: it provides a less than suboptimal agricultural general exception to all GATT 1994 output, as well as deterioration of their The July 2008 revised draft modalities obligations. They offer policy space for livelihoods. Predictable incomes are on agriculture nearly mimics the a party using them; however, the ex- critical if commodity-dependent African Group’s proposal and ceptions should not be abused to pro- countries are to escape the cycle of distributes this sizeable text over 12 tect national producers under the commodity dependence, increase paragraphs, from paragraph 88 to 99, guise of lofty principles. agricultural output, improve living under the heading “commodities”.

15 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

The same legitimate governance priori- protection. According to Privacy Bilateral agreements supersede multi- ties recognized at multilateral level International, none of the ACP lateral agreement as ex specialis. apply at the bilateral level as well. countries had a data protection law in Whatever package is reached in the Even so, Article XX GATT exceptions place in May 2007, with a few having Doha Round on Art. XX or related do not cover preferential r bilateral a pending effort to enact law regarding articles, the EPAs, as opposed to the trade agreements. Therefore, all free privacy laws. In short: if you have no or Doha package, will be in effect. trade agreements (FTAs) include a underdeveloped rivacy protection laws, section on general exceptions. For there is nothing to secure compliance A general exception expresses an example, the New Zealand-Thailand to, and the chance to avail of this internationally recognized policy Closer Economic Partnership (CEP) exception is virtually non-existent. On objective, which under certain copies the GATT XX verbatim into Arti- the other hand, the EU has a detailed conditions, is more important than cle 15(1) of the CEP. The EFTA-Chile body of regulations to safeguard GATT-compliance. These exclusions FTA has opted for the same approach various kinds of privacy protection. of GATT XX exceptions, in particular in Article 21. In the Australia-United Added to that, the barrier to utilize EPA the exclusion of the commodity States FTA, GATT XX and its interpre- general exceptions is lower than GATT agreement exception, threaten viable tive notes are simply incorporated and XX exceptions because of more policy options which are totally made part of he agreement (Article frequent use of consultations between acceptable at multilateral level. 22.1). the parties and more accessible dispute settlement provisions of the In fact, any type of international A stock-taking exercise would in fact EPA compared to the WTO. commodity agreement affecting trade reveal that the bulk of FTAs, both with EU is prohibited. The demise of North-North as well as North-South In contrast, there are 3 important GATT ICAs or supply management systems FTAs, duplicate the General Excep- XX general exceptions relevant to designed to stabilize prices and tions agreed upon at the multilateral (commodity-dependent) developing alleviate poverty, catering for level. countries that are not included in the commodity-dependent developing EPAs: countries, has been sealed by Contrasting the General Exceptions signature of the EPAs. Nevertheless, Clauses in the EPAs with Art. XX • measures undertaken in pursuance ICAs or joint actions by commodity GATT of obligations under any dependent producers are considered intergovernmental commodity by all ACP states as part of their Currently there are 8 (interim) EPAs: agreement development toolbox and are viewed the CARIFORUM EPA with 15 • the measure to restrict exports of as legitimate means to reduce poverty, Caribbean countries, the Pacific domestic materials as part of a needing clarification and amendment interim-EPA (Papua New Guinea & governmental stabilization plan on WTO level. Fiji), and the 6 interim-EPAs with 19 • measures essential to the acquisition African countries. The number and or distribution of products in general or Disregarding the ACP states in this comprehensiveness of EPAs is due to local short supply (majority of the respect will render the EPA objectives increase: it is envisaged that ultimately EPAs) of poverty alleviation and pre- all 79 ACP countries will have eminence of political choices and concluded a free trade agreement with As it currently stands, the EPAs do not development priorities of ACP states in the EU in the near future. recognize the above three measures their integration into the world as legitimate policy priorities. economy, null and void. When focusing only on the General Exception provision of the 8 EPAs, The “WTO-Plus” Requirements of Therefore, the African Group and its notable variance with Art. XX GATT is the EPAs supporters should urgently reconfirm detected, unlike the other FTAs earlier their stance on commodities, mentioned. Two main classes of Three general exceptions agreed upon subscribe to the July modalities, and variance can be distinguished: at the multilateral level are expunged take the necessary action. When no additional exceptions compared to Art. in the EPAs. All signed EPAs contain action is taken, any type of XX and left-out exceptions compared General Exception clauses international commodity agreement to Art. XX. detrimental to commodity dependent will be practically impossible and may developing countries. One of these in fact be prohibited forever. This will In all EPAs, there are additional three crossouts - the exclusion of the invalidate all the work done at exceptions not included in GATT XX, international commodity agreements multilateral level and turn the African such as measures to secure exception - directly conflicts with the Group's proposal, as well as a compliance to privacy protection or African Group proposal on substantial part of the July 2008 safety laws, or to deal with defaults on commodities and the consequently modalities, into a dead letter. contracts. These additional exceptions drafted July 2008 modalities on are more favourable to the EU. Take commodities which largely Beyond Art. XX GATT the example of measures necessary to incorporates this proposal. secure compliance with laws or In a plenary at the conference regulations relating to privacy “Confronting the Global Food Continue on page 17

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Phase one will be followed, naturally Perhaps the most significant of Funds needed for enough, by phase two, replacement these antiques is the building itself. Window- of the windows in the lower level for which funds have not yet been Completed in 1750, it was built by Replacement raised and which will require the Peter Harrison, credited as being the temporary closure of the museum. first professionally trained architect Project This is to allow for the complete in America. Also to his credit are still By Agnes Meeker dismantling of the exhibits in order to standing buildings like the Redwood avoid damage. Library in Rhode Island, the oldest President of the Historical and community library still occupying its Archaeological Society Phase two will begin as soon as original building, the Old Brick Museum of Antigua and Barbuda funds permit. Market. It houses the Museum of Newport History. There is also the Excerpted from the Museum’s Clearly, this is no simple renovation Touro Synagogue, said to be the Newsletter No.102 job. With a building as old and as only surviving synagogue from the As simple as it seems it’s a $207,000 historically significant, preserving colonial era and Christ Church, a job of which $92,740 has been the architectural integrity is top national land mark in Massachusetts. raised. We’re talking some 53 priority, and, as noted, apart from the windows, no make that 54, thanks to safety issues that come with The neo-Classic Harrison design in another window discovered after the windows hanging on their last rusty Antigua previously served as the original assessment. hinges, there’s the building itself and country’s courthouse and is now a its contents to consider. popular stop tourists, school children With the funds raised we’re ready to and history buffs. begin phase one replacing the The 17 businesses and individuals windows in the upper level of the who’ve so far contributed to the Back in the day, a tax was levied for museum. effort are keeping this from a period of six years to aid on its happening. Perhaps because they construction. Today, as we proceed That’s 23 windows that must be recognize that the museum houses with the massive window custom made and transported from Antigua’s history and should the replacement project, the Historical St Kitts via DOMUS. The contractor windows be damaged (as a result Society is asking people to pony up is on standby with work expected to the exhibits), we lose it and we’d voluntarily. Contributions can be begin mid May, and archaeologist Dr have to start from scratch. Many of made by calling the museum or by Reginald Murphy, is sourcing the the items on display are depositing funds directly to the special mortar required. irreplaceable, notwithstanding that museum account number 1000404, the information may be backed up at the Bank of Nova Scotia. on computers.

Continued from page 16 taxes, or safeguards, but a WTO com- patible agreement is not limited to Challenge” on 25 November 2008, these examples. Unnecessary losses Pascal Lamy was questioned about should be prevented. the vanished commodity agreement exception in all EPAs. In his reply, he For that reason, it is advisable for agreed that commodity agreements sovereign ACP states, in their are acceptable in the multilateral respective negotiations leading to context, but that countries sign either a ‘goods only’ or comprehensive bilaterals with provisions going far EPA, to conduct a close and thorough beyond WTO requirements. However, examination of the EPA texts vis-a-vis he noted that bilateral agreements relevant WTO Agreements to prevent take precedence over multilateral WTO-plus commitments. agreements and it s a sovereign choice of a member state to do so.

A WTO-compatible agreement does not mean the forfeit of multilaterally established rights. Restrictions could be imposed in the area of national Peter Lunenborg works with the treatment (Art. III GATT), fees and Trade for Development Programme, formalities connected with importation South Centre. and exportation Art. VIII GATT), export Betty’s Hope

17 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

Commonwealth Scholar attends University of Surrey

Antigua and Barbudan Ercil Charles, Commonwealth Scholar, is currently pursuing an MSc. in Tourism Development at the University of Surrey.

His studies in the United Kingdom started on September 29, 2008 and will terminate on September 28, 2009. H.E. Dr Carl Roberts and Commonwealth Scholar Mr Charles was previously employed by the Ministry of Ercil Charles Education as a teacher at the All make a more meaningful working extremely diligently to Saints Secondary School. He also contribution to Human Resources maintain the high standards of worked at the Ministry of Tourism as Development, and to assist with previous and other current scholars a Tutor/Facilitator at the Antigua and policy and developmental plans of this Award. Barbuda Hospitality Training within the Ministry of Tourism. Institute (ABHTI). He says he is extremely honoured to have been chosen as a His aspiration is to return to full time Commonwealth Scholar and is service at ABHTI, where he can

H.E. David Shoul said that the The country’s Ambassador to China Installation of signing completes over two years of added that he is excited about the negotiations for the erection of 1572 finalization of the two projects as Hundreds of street lights across Antigua and they have been in the pipeline for a Barbuda covering some 65 very long time. He noted that they Street Lights to kilometers of road. will positively impact the lives of Antiguans and Barbudans and Commence He noted that the project is as a contribute to security and the result of a grant in the sum of EC$10 provision of a more reliable source Shortly in million dollars provided by the of water by APUA. Antigua and Chinese Government. This phase of the street lighting Barbuda It was also disclosed that a team of project is a continuation of the Chinese officials and technicians will Chinese project which saw the arrive in the country on December installation of lights from the V.C. General Manager of the Antigua 17 to begin preparations for the start Bird International Airport to the Sir Public Utilities Authority Mr. Esworth of the project which will commence Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium. Martin and First Secretary in the with a ground breaking ceremony on Business Office of the Embassy of December 30. the People’s Republic of China Mr. Lu Jun, signed the final construction Ambassador Shoul said that the agreement paving the way for the Chinese delegation and the erection of hundreds of street lights government also signed a contract across Antigua and Barbuda. for the covering of the Grays Hill Reservoir which will also be funded Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador through a grant by the People’s to the People’s Republic of China Republic of China.

18 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

in the United Kingdom will be issued with an identity card will be required to Identity Cards for as a standalone card. There will be no show it to employers prior to endorsement in the passport. commencing employment. Employers Foreign will be able to accept this, alongside The card is proof of the holder’s right to the other recommended document to Nationals stay, work or study in the United help with checks to confirm the identity Kingdom. It can also be used as a and entitlement to work of their WHAT ARE IDENTITY CARDS form of identification (for example, if prospective employees. FOR FOREIGN NATIONALS? they wish to open a bank account in the UK). The holder is not required to WHEN WILL CARDS REPLACE On 25 November 2008 the UK Border carry their card at all times, but they VIGNETTES IN PASSPORTS? Agency changed the way it issues must show it at the border, together permission to stay (grants of leave to with they passport, when travelling The roll-out will be phased according remain) in the United Kingdom. outside of, and when returning to, the to the immigration category under Identity cards for foreign nationals are United Kingdom. which the migrant is granted leave to a form of residence permit, and stay in the United Kingdom. Any replace the vignettes (or stickers) Under current legislation, employers person who applies for an extension of previously placed in passports. have a responsibility to check the stay as a student or on the basis of Initially this only applies to nationals of entitlement of prospective employees marriage or partnership on or after 25 countries outside the European to work in the UK. We strongly advise November 2008 will be required to Economic Area who are granted leave employers undertake checks on apply for an identity card for foreign to remain in the United Kingdom as everyone they wish to employ. This nationals. Migrants granted leave to either a student or an the basis of will enable enable employers to stay in the United Kingdom under marriage or partnership. More establish a statutory excuse against other immigration categories will immigration categories will switch from payment of a civil penalty for receive a vignette in their passport. vignettes to cards at a later date. employing an illegal migrant worker; Both vignettes and cards will remain in shows their recruitment process is circulation for the foreseeable future. All applicants aged six or over are open and transparent, and ensures For up-to-date information on which required to give biometrics. These will their recruitment practices do no immigration categories are issued with be scans of all 10 fingerprints and a discriminate against anyone because cards please see the UK Border digital photo. Applicants who are of their race. Agency website at under six are not required to provide www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk fingerprints. The grant of leave to stay To help reduce the burden on employers, foreign nationals issued

Devil’s Bridge

19 The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission Issue 130 - November/December 2008

work hard, and to earn the employers who do not make the Newcomers must right to stay here. necessary checks. earn the right to "We are making the biggest 9. simplifying our appeals system to changes to our immigration cut red-tape; ensuring that the stay in the UK system for a generation, and system is properly sensitive to the part of that is making sure needs of vulnerable groups: those who stay in the UK honouring our international Foreign nationals wishing to become obligations to refugees and ensuring British citizens will have to earn the make a positive impact on their local community." the UKBA safeguards and promotes right to stay, the Government the welfare of children. announced. The draft Immigration and Citizenship Bill published today Managing any local impacts The tough new approach will require replaces ten Acts of Parliament and 10. full access to benefits for citizens all migrants to speak English and enshrines into law the Government's and permanent residents, with obey the law if they want to gain biggest ever shake-up of the migrants contributing a little extra to citizenship and stay permanently in immigration system. The key the cost of local services. Britain, while speeding up the path to measures are: citizenship for those who contribute Strong borders The Home Office confirmed that to the community. newcomers will have to pay a little 1. new powers for frontline UKBA extra before they become citizens to The reforms are at the centre of a officers at foreign ports and airports create a fund of tens of millions of sweeping overhaul of all immigration to cancel visas. pounds a year to help police, laws dating back to 1971 and 2. bringing customs and immigration schools, councils and local health confirm new modern laws reserving powers at the border into the 21st services to use the money to deal full access to benefits and social century, consolidating and with the short-term pressures of housing will be reserved for citizens strengthening civil penalties for migration in their areas. and permanent residents. bringing passengers without the right papers and clandestine Border and Immigration Minister Foreign nationals who commit entrants to the UK. Liam Byrne said: serious offences will face automatic Selective migration consideration for deportation - and "Britain is not anti-foreigner, even minor offences will delay 3. the Bill proposes a clear legal duty we're a welcoming, tolerant access to citizenship by up to three on migrants to ensure they have place. But we do expect years. permission to be in the UK, for newcomers to sign up to a example under our new points deal if they want to stay and Public support for the proposals was system. build a life in Britain. confirmed by new Home Office 4. the Bill introduces a single, "The public overwhelmingly polling released today. A Mori poll streamlined power of expulsion for supports the idea of carried out for the Home Office those without permission. newcomers earning their revealed that: Earning the right to stay right to stay. Today we show 70 per cent of the public think how we'll make these ideas that newcomers should earn 5. migrants will now have to earn law, hand in hand with our the right to stay in Britain; their right to stay in the UK. new points system for 83 per cent think that immigrants 6. automatic bans on returns with selective migration, like the in Britain should be made to new powers to exclude offenders one that's worked so well in learn English; and and powers to require those who are Australia." 69 per cent agree that expelled to repay costs to taxpayers These changes are part of the newcomers should be if we allow them to come back. biggest shake-up to the immigration penalised on the path to Playing by the rules system for a generation, and to citizenship if they don't obey 7. the Bill gives a new power to make sure these changes stick Britain's laws. require large 'bail bonds' for those today's Bill will see the currently awaiting decisions or expulsion, part complex immigration laws replaced Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: of a tough menu of conditions for by one simplified piece of legislation. "In recent months we have "Immigration bail" as an alternative to By updating the law, and getting rid listened to people across detention. of any room for misinterpretation, the Britain and the message is 8. confirming tough measures to UK Border Agency can cut red tape clear - they want those who prevent organised illegal and accelerate the speed of its work. want to make Britain their immigration by attacking illegal home to speak English, to working with civil penalties for (Source:www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk)

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