Official newsletter

newsletter107 ( .pdf )

-- The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission
ISSUE No.107 February 2006

he United States government has pledged to work closely
with Antigua and Barbuda and Regional Security System
(RSS) countries to develop their security capabilities for World
Cup Cricket 2007.

During a visit with Prime Minister Spencer, United
States Ambassador Mrs Mary Kramer and Lieutenant General
H Steven Blum outlined the areas in which the United States
government will assist the countries attached to the RSS in
getting them ready for the event which is expected to attract
hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region.
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer with President of the
Lieutenant General Blum, who is Chief of the
United States George W Bush and Mrs Bush
National Guard Bureau in Arlington, Virginia, said that there are

Digital photo by Maurice Merchant a number of areas that his division is prepared to work along
with Antigua and Barbuda and the RSS countries.

Prime Minister Spencer who is also the Chairman of the
RSS said that he is delighted that the United States is lending
assistance to the region in such an important area and at such a
critical time when security will be of high priority to the region.

Prime Minister Spencer also thanked Ambassador Kramer Il
for her efforts in working to ensure that the region receives the
assistance from the United States government. He also asked her
to convey best wishes to President George Bush and Mrs. Bush -.
whom he met in September last year during a reception hosted by
the President at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York to celebrate
the Sixtieth United Nations General Assembly. Prime Minister Spencer in discussion with
Lieutenant General Blum

Inside The meeting was Digital photo by Maurice Merchant
Prime Minister congratulates Rene also attended by
Preval on election victory in Haiti Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister Mrs. Maudlyn
(page 5) Richards, Deputy Commander Edward Croft of the ABDF and Officers of the
Antigua and Barbuda protests US National Guard Bureau.
Anti-Gambling Legislation
(page 6)
AmbassadorMurdoch attends OECS During the day, Lieutenant General Blum also held talks with the
Task Force discussion on Economic hierarchy of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force and inspected a Guard
Union (page 9) of Honour.
Government's Securities Road Show
(page 10)

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A MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY

DR CARL ROBERTS, HIGH COMMISSIONER


Dear Readers,


I would like to take this opportunity to
speak to you on a very important subject.

I have been charged by the Prime
Minister of Antigua and Barbuda the
Honourable Baldwin Spencer to meet and
discuss various matters with all Antiguans
and Barbudans domiciled in the United
Kingdom.

To this end, I will make myself
available to you, wherever you are in the UK.
I would suggest that within your own
community if you know of other Antiguans
and Barbudans living there, try and make an
effort to form a group and I will meet with you
at an appropriate meeting place.


As most of you realize, this year
marks the 25th Anniversary of the
Independence of Antigua and Barbuda. The
twenty-fifth years' anniversary celebration
provides a wonderful opportunity to analyse
the progress we have made since 1st
November 1981.

No doubt we have achieved much
progress but could we have gone further? A
little bit of soul searching and reflection is
always useful as we develop our plans for the
future.

We have much to thank God for, for
though we have suffered at the hands of
several hurricanes, we have managed to
rebound.

Our progress has come about as a
result of much sacrifice. We nonetheless
cannot and must not reduce our efforts to
ensure that our beloved country remains that
lovely place where we will all like to live, and
to encourage our friends from around the
world to visit and wherever possible to invest
in.

This year also will pass but the
demonstration of unity and good citizenship
should prevail and remain with each of us
long after the celebrations have ceased. Let
us heed the call of Prime Minister Baldwin
Spencer to join our brothers and sisters at
home to celebrate this grand occasion and in
doing so show the world that we, Antiguans
and Barbudans, are one, sharing a common
bond and a common future.


Now on to other things.


Dr Carl Roberts
High Commissioner








GOVERNMENT NEW,

Barbuda Council hosts
visit of Overseas Tourism
Offices

Following a three day meeting
of intense discussions to co-ordinate
activities in the key tourist generating
markets, Directors of Tourism located in
the overseas offices recently held an
historical meeting with the Barbuda
Council.

The meeting provided the
opportunity for the Council to discuss
with the top tourism marketing
representatives along with the
Honourable Minister of Tourism, Harold
Lovell, and his Antigua based team, their
vision for tourism in Barbuda and its
critical role in marketing the twin island
nation as a dual centre vacation spot.

Chairman of the Barbuda
Council, Randolph Beazer, outlined the
potential of Barbuda and emphasised
the need for proper representation of
Barbudans in tourism development and
marketing activities in close collaboration
with the Ministry of Tourism. Areas
identified for immediate attention in the
move towards an improved product are
the improvement of basic infrastructure,
particularly the roads and airport
facilities, and the proper management of
the yachting industry which was growing
considerably in Barbuda.

Minister Trevor Walker,
Member of Parliament for Barbuda,
accompanied the team throughout the
day which included a visit to two of the
three properties on island and
culminated with a visit to the Codrington
House ruins and Caves at Two Foot Bay
to review the potential development of
these as heritage sites. "This is an
exciting occasion and we look forward to
continuing the dialogue. Already, we
have brainstormed a number of activities
which could revitalise Barbuda in the
eyes of the visitor. We are extremely


happy to meet our tourism representatives
overseas and develop a stronger
partnership."

The need for an overall tourism
plan for Barbuda was emphasised with
plans to include Barbuda in the impending
preparation of the tourism master plan for
the country anticipated to commence later
this year. An interim programme would be
developed by the Barbuda Council which
would assist in a greater focus on Barbuda
as an integral part of the tourism product.

The Minister of Tourism stressed
the importance of the meeting and his
commitment to building a stronger
relationship with the Barbuda Council. "We
are making every effort to market Antigua
and Barbuda as a unique Caribbean
destination which is only attainable with a
strong partnership approach with Barbuda.
The many attributes and features of
Barbuda complement Antigua, and
together the destination provides an
experience that no other destination can
match". Minister Lovell continued, "This is
only achievable if we have a shared vision
and work very closely in seeking to achieve
joint benefits."

Immediate results were attained
from this momentous occasion with an
understanding that space would be
provided at the tourism information desk at
V.C. Bird International Airport for personnel
from Barbuda to utilise, and staff from the
Barbuda Council working at the Ministry of
Tourism to provide further exposure and
training. Greater opportunities would be
extended for attendance of key
promotional activities by representatives of
the Barbuda Council, a programme already
commenced with the attendance of Ms.
There Parker from the Barbuda Council at
World Travel Market in 2004, and Mr.
Linton Thomas at a recent media launch
co-ordinated by the New York Office in
November 2005.

Plans were already in place to
utilise Barbudan Chef Reme Hamlet at the


Issue No. 107 February 2006

annual CTO Caribbean Week in New
York scheduled for June 2006.

The visit to Barbuda was
the highlight of the first 2006 biannual
meeting of overseas offices which
seeks to strengthen collaboration in
a more aggressive global marketing
effort and ensure synergy among the
marketing representatives. The
meeting reviewed marketing plans
and budgets and various on-island
activities, particularly the hosting of
travel agents and media which has
been the primary thrust of marketing
activities for Antigua and Barbuda.

Discussions were also held
on the opportunities for embracing
2006 as the 25th Independence
Anniversary in promotional activities
emphasising the cultural, historical
and heritage attributes of the country.
Representatives of World Cup
Antigua Incorporated also updated
the marketing representatives on
Cricket World Cup preparations.
Additional meetings were held with
Carnival Co-ordinator, Vaughn
Walter, to ensure early promotion of
Carnival in 2006 and the 50th
Celebrations in 2007. Meetings were
also held with the Marketing and
Sales Managers of both LIAT and
Caribbean Star in an effort to
increase linkages with the French
islands, a market researched as
having major potential for Antigua
and Barbuda, particularly in the
summer months.

A number of major
promotional activities are planned for
the first half of the year with a
recognition that "Antigua and
Barbuda cannot be outside of the
arena and seek to compete in the
Olympics", with ongoing preparations
for the launch of a new look and
image for Antigua and Barbuda in the
marketplace to be rolled out later in
2006.


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GOVERNMENT NEW


Minister Maginley and the British
Government Official

Digital photo by Consuela Parker


Health Minister and British
Commissioner discuss
cooperation

On the 13th February the new
Resident British Commissioner Mr
Terence Knight paid a courtesy call on
the Minister of Health John Maginley.

During their brief meeting both
Officials discussed the continued
technical cooperation between the
United Kingdom and Antigua and
Barbuda.

They also spoke about the up
coming Cricket World Cup 2007, and the
touring Antigua team which went to
England last year. The country's health
services and sports in general were also
discussed.

Mr Knight took up his
appointment on January 1, 2006 upon
the retirement of Ms Jean Sharp.

The British Government has
assisted the Government of Antigua and
Barbuda in its health care services, by
providing funding for the Browne's
Avenue Health Centre, Clare Hall Health
Centre, Pigotts Clinic and the All Saints


Health Centre. The strengthening of co-
operation will continue between both
countries.

Ministry receives tangible
donation towards the
development of the Fort
James Beach

On 13th February Minister of
Tourism Harold Lovell was presented with
an EC$5000 cheque for the development
of the Fort James Beach as a Heritage
Tourism site.

The funds which will be directed
towards the first phase of the project,
mainly the construction of change rooms
and rest rooms within the area, were
presented by Philbert Mason on behalf of
MSM Industries Ltd, responsible for
building a Best Western Property in
Antigua in time for the 2007 ICC Cricket
World Cup.

In accepting the funds on behalf
of his Ministry, Mr Lovell expressed his
thanks for the gesture noting that it will go
a long way in securing the commencement
of the first phase of the project.

"I am indeed happy that Best
Western has sought to hold confidence in
the national economy as it stands and in


Issue No. 107 February 2006

times to come," Minister Lovell noted.
He continued, "It is also a firm
demonstration of good corporate
relations".

While giving a brief
overview of the project, Heritage
Tourism Officer, Bert Lindsay
mentioned that a proposal is being
drafted for the designation of the
area as a national park. The
proposed extent of the site covers an
area with Fort James as the centre;
extending on the Northern side to
Sand Haven (Fort Hamilton); moving
south along the road east of Dry Hill;
onto Bay Street then on to Dickenson
Bay Street; down to Rat Island.

Mr. Mason relayed that as
CEO and Manager of MSM he is
pleased to be attempting to place on
the shores of Antigua and Barbuda a
104 room five star hotel, and it is a
privilege to work with the government
on the initial stages of the Fort James
project as its aim is to enhance the
Dickenson Bay area.

Mason also informed the
Minister of his company's intention to
donate two complimentary three
night stays at any Best Western
property around the world. These
prizes will be given to the winners of
the 2006 Carnival Queen competition
and the Calypso
Monarch
competition.





(left) Minister
accepts
,. cheque from
Philbert
., .. Mason

SDigital photo
by Samoya
Kirby


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GOVERNMENT NEW,

PM Spencer congratulates
Rene Preval on election
victory in Haiti

Prime Minister Baldwin
Spencer has congratulated the leader of
the L'Espwa (The Hope) Party, Rene
Preval, on his victory at the polls in Haiti.

Mr. Preval, a former ally of
deposed President Jean Bertrand
Aristide, was declared the winner of the
presidential elections having won by an
overwhelming majority of the votes.

Prime Minister Spencer also
joined his CARICOM colleagues in
issuing an official message calling the
Haitian elections as a wonderful moment
and declaring that French nation now
has a democratic government which
could sit down with CARICOM and
discuss its re-entry into the regional
grouping.

CARICOM suspended Haiti's
membership after the ousting of
President Jean-Bertrand Aristide two
years ago.


In his letter Prime Minister
Spencer said:

"I present my compliments and
have the honour to offer you the
congratulations and best wishes of the
Government and people of Antigua and
Barbuda on the great victory by your
party at the polls on 7th February.

I take special pleasure in
congratulating you on your election to
the office of President of the Republic.

In my view, the elections of 7th
February were a special opportunity to
resolve the difficulties of the past and to
put Haiti upon a new path that will lead to
growth and development.


Issue No. 107 February 2006


While there
are many challenges
ahead, I am comforted
by the personal
qualities and
experience that you
bring to your office;
and with the goodwill
and support of the
people of the
Caribbean and the
international
community, the people
of Haiti, who so
overwhelmingly
supported your vision
of hope, can now be
placed at the centre of


all
efforts.


development


Prime Minister Spencer and Ambassador Kato


Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant


I look forward to working with you,
both at the regional and bilateral levels, in
ensuring that the people we represent in
our respective countries will have a bright
Caribbean future."


Japan's Ambassador pays
farewell call on Prime
Minister Spencer

On 20th February, Japanese
Ambassador Shigenobu Kato paid his
farewell call on senior Government officials
in Antigua and Barbuda.

Ambassador Kato, who is based
in Port-of-Spain Trinidad, called on
Governor General Sir James Carlisle and
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer.

Ambassador Kato thanked the
Prime Minister for his government's


support on many international issues
of importance to Japan. He pointed
out that since arriving in the region,
this was his tenth visit to Antigua and
Barbuda, and it was an indication of
how much the relationship has grown.

Prime Minister Spencer
thanked the Ambassador for his
country's interest in Antigua and
Barbuda and the support given to the
development efforts. He hoped that
Ambassador Kato's successor would
build on the efforts made and take
Antigua and Barbuda/Japan relations
to a new level.

Ambassador Kato indicated
that he was being transferred to be
the Ambassador in Jordan, and that
his successor would be arriving in the
region in mid-March.

Both men reviewed various
project and elements in the
relationship including the next phase
in fisheries project development
envisaged for the sister island of
Barbuda.



c*Pi


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GOVERNMENT NEW,

Antigua and Barbuda
protests U.S.
Anti-Gambling
Legislation

The Government of Antigua
and Barbuda has sent a letter to Rob
Portman, the United States Trade
Representative, in response to recent
legislation introduced in the United
States Congress regarding Internet
gambling.

In 2005, Antigua won a case
against the United States in the World
Trade Organization over the US
prohibition on Internet gambling services
offered to American consumers from
Antigua, and under WTO procedures the
United States was given until 3 April
2006 to bring its laws into compliance
with the WTO decision.

However, the only legislation
introduced into the Congress to date
have been bills sponsored by
Congressmen Jim Leach (R-lowa) and
Bob Goodlatte (R-Virginia), both of
whom seek to impose further restrictions
on Internet gambling. In his letter of 16
February 2006 to Ambassador Portman,
the Antiguan Ambassador to the WTO
Dr. John W. Ashe notes that both pieces
of legislation are in a number of respects
directly contrary to the ruling of the WTO
in the gambling dispute.

"As of today," noted
Ambassador Ashe, "with less than two
months remaining on an 11 month and
two week compliance period, to our
knowledge no legislation has been
introduced into the Congress that would
seek to bring the United States into
compliance with the [WTO]
recommendations. Further, your
government has given no indication to
Antigua and Barbuda as to how the
United States intends to effect such
compliance. The only legislative efforts


Issue No.107


so far, the Goodlatte Bill and the
Leach Bill, are baldly contrary to the
rulings and recommendations of the
[WTO]. We can only assume that this
legislation was neither sponsored by
nor enjoys the support of the USTR
(US Trade Representative) and the
current American administration."

Mark Mendel, lead counsel
representing Antigua in the WTO
case, observed that the exceptions to
the Internet gambling prohibition
contained in both of the Bills highlight
the discriminatory trade effect of the
United States prohibition on the
cross-border provision of gambling Digit'
and betting services into the US. "By
creating carve-outs for certain domestic
remote gambling opportunities, including in
particular wholly-intrastate remote
gambling, both of these pieces of
legislation fly directly in the face of the
WTO ruling. The economic basis of the US
restrictions simply cannot be more
obvious."

Ambassador Ashe further
expressed his country's commitment to the
case, noting "Antigua and Barbuda stands
prepared to ensure that our people reap
the benefits of this historic decision. We
will use the avenues open to us at the WTO
and otherwise to see that the United States
complies with the decision in a timely and
comprehensive manner. As always
however, we encourage the United States
government to engage with Antigua and
Barbuda directly to craft a workable
solution to our dispute that addresses the
concerns of both nations."

Korean Ambassador
says farewell

On 21st February, Korean
Ambassador Lee Joon-il paid a farewell
call on Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer
and Governor General Sir James Carlisle.
Ambassador Lee, who is based in the
Dominican Republic, is expected to be


February 2006


Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and
Ambassador Lee Joon-il

I photo by Maurice F. Merchant

re-assigned to the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs in the Korean Capital of Seoul.

During his meeting with
Prime Minister Spencer,
Ambassador Lee spoke of Antigua
and Barbuda's valuable support for a
diplomatic solution to the nuclear
problem on the Korean peninsula
with the 6-party talks. Ambassador
Lee pointed out that the diplomatic
process was moving very slowly.

Prime Minister Spencer
wished Ambassador Lee every
success in his new posting and
assured him that his administration
will continue building the relations
with his country. The Republic of
Korea has assisted Antigua and
Barbuda in several areas including
hospital equipment, computers,
dental equipment and vehicles.

Ambassador Lee also
reminded Prime Minister Spencer of
the Republic of Korea's candidacy for
the Secretary-Generalship of the
United Nations. Mr. Kofi Annan will
demit office in December of 2006,
and the Republic of Korea Foreign
Minister Ban Ki-moon is considered
a frontrunner for the position.


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GOVERNMENT NEW


Minister Maginley in conversation with Sout
Commissioner Designate Faith Radebe and
Ambassador Designate Bruce Goo

Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

South African Cricketing
Delegation discusses
World Cup Cricket 2007
with Antiguan officials

On the request of the
Government of Prime Minister Spencer,
a six member South African cricket
delegation headed by High
Commissioner Designate Her
Excellency Faith Radebe visited Antigua
and Barbuda and held meetings with
officials of the Antigua Cricket World
Cup.

Antigua and Barbuda made
good on an offer by the Government of
South Africa to provide technical
assistance for the staging of World Cup
Cricket 2007. Present on the South
African delegation were the Assistant
Commissioner of the South African
Police Services and the Chief Director of
the South African Department of Sports.

According to Chairman of the
meeting the Minister of Sports, John
Maginley, technical assistance from the
South Africans will be in the areas of
security, grounds preparation, event
management and marketing.


... "These priority areas are
not only specific to Antigua
and Barbuda but are
relevant areas of need for
the other Caribbean
countries hosting World
Cup Cricket 2007. South
Africa, having already
hosted numerous world
class events has expertise
from which the Caribbean
can draw upon," said
Minister Maginley.

h African High (C
African Union
dwin



Registrar and Deputy
Registrar appointed
to the High Court

Newly appointed Registrar and
Deputy Registrar of the High Court of
Antigua and Barbuda were formally
introduced at a press conference in the
Ministry of Justice, presided over by ,
Minister of Justice Senator Colin Derrick
and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Barbara
Belle.

The position of Registrar was
filled by Dominican national, Ms Sandra


(I ro r) IMr Lunanesworm lanor, iVis. sanara
Minister of Justice Senator Colin Derrick
Permanent Secretary Mrs Barbara Bell


Issue No. 107 February 2006

Julien, while Mr. Charlesworth
Tabor, an Antiguan was appointed as
Deputy Registrar, both pledging to do
all that was possible to ensure the
efficient running of the High Court.

Ms Julien, a graduate of the
University of the West Indies, was
admitted as Barrister-at-Law and
Solicitor of the High Court,
Commonwealth of Dominica in
November, 2001 has brought a
wealth of knowledge of Civil Service
Rules and Regulations to her new
position. As a result of her
experience and knowledge of the
operations and workings of the High
Court Registry in Dominica, Ms
Julien was appointed to the Office of
Deputy Registrar (qualified) in
October, 2003.

Prior to this appointment,
she served as State Attorney in the
Attorney General's Office, also in her
native Dominica, and had acted in
the office of Registrar, Registrar
General and Provost Marshall on a
number of occasions.

Ms Julien replaces
Attorney-at- Law, Mrs. Laurie
Freeland Roberts, who acted in the
post for a number of years, while at
the same time officiating in her
substantive post as Registrar of the
Intellectual Property and
Commerce Office.

Mr. Tabor worked
as an Employment Officer
in the Labour Department
in Antigua and Barbuda
L from 1974 to 1978, before
S pursuing his Bachelors
S/ ZDegree in Economics at St.
SMary's University, Halifax
Canada, and his Masters
Degree in Agricultural
Julien, Economics, from the
k and University of Alberta,
e Edmonton, Canada.
(continue on page 10)


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GOVERNMENT NEW


Issue No. 107 February 2006


The Moravian Church Antigua will celebrate 250 years of work and witness
for the Lord in 2006. From its humble beginnings on the 1st April, 1756 under Samuel Isles, the
Church has impacted and affected the Antiguan community in a real way. Our church has
played a tremendous role in the development of our Antiguan people spiritually, educationally,
socially, economically and generally in every sphere of life. We are proud of our heritage and
thank God for having brought us thus far. To mark this momentous occasion, we are inviting
all Moravians to celebrate with us in a week of celebrations from 31st March to 6th April

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS


Friday 31st March, 2006 -
We will have a Recognition Banquet, at
which we will recognize all Moravian
Ministers who served in Antigua and
specially highlight the Antiguans. The
cost of the Banquet is US$50.00 and will
take place at the Grand Royal Antiguan
Hotel. Tickets are limited to 400 persons
and is on a first come, first served basis.


Saturday 1st April 2006 (Anniversary
Date) -
Pan Festival, including all the
Steelbands in the Moravian Church
Antigua, with Cable and Wireless
Hellsgate and West Indies Oil
Gemonites as guest. Since this is the
actual Anniversary date, we will have a
forty-five minute service in all our
congregations from 6:00 am. The exact
service will be done in all of our
congregations.

Sunday 2nd April 2006 -
Anniversary Thanksgiving Service

Monday 3rd April 2006 -
Spring Gardens night

Tuesday 4th April 2006 -
Official Government Reception to mark
the event to which all Overseas Guests
will be invited.

Wednesday 5th April 2006 -
Anniversary Programme/
Moravian Hymns and their stories.

Thursday 6th April -
Youth Explosion


Friday 7th April -
A Deeper Life Service of Recommitment -
An Anniversary March will take place from
5:30 pm to Spring Gardens and the service
will begin at 7:00 pm.




An Exhibition of Moravian work and things
Moravian will run for 6 months from 3rd
April at the National Archives.


The General Post Office will launch a set of
commemorative Stamps on the 3rd April
on the Moravian Church, which each
Moravian needs to get.


A Commemorative Magazine is being
produced for the event.


There will be lots of Souvenir items
available. Please come and be with us. I
implore you to communicate as often as
possible with us so that we can be on top
of things.

Can you help help?

As part of the celebrations, an
exhibition of the work of the
Church in Antigua is being
planned. The Exhibition
Committee is requesting the
assistance of persons who have
photographs, documents and
other mementos in their
possession either loan or donate


such items for display at
the Antigua and Barbuda
National Archives. All items
will be promptly returned.



Recognition Banquet The
Banquet is scheduled to be
held at the Grand Royal
Antiguan Hotel. The
contribution for the
Banquet is US$50.00 or
EC$135.00 and will be sold
on a first come, first serve
basis.



250 Club As part of the
celebrations, we have
launched the 250 Club.
We invite you to join the
Club as a sign of your
pledge and commitment to
the continued development
and advancement of the
Moravian Church. In order
to join this Club, persons
will pay EC$250.00. One
dollar for each year the
Moravian Church has been
in existence in Antigua.
Each member of the Club
will receive a special 250th
Commemorative PIN.



Rev. Dr. Cortroy Jarvis
Chair of the Anniversary
Committee


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GOVERNMENT NEW,

PAHO Officials to conduct
survey of HIV/AIDS Impact
on Antigua and Barbuda

A team of consultants from the
United Nations Development
Programme are in Antigua to conduct a
one-month socio-economic assessment
on HIV/AIDS in the country.

The team which is headed by
Professor Desmond Cohen will assist
the government to identify the existing
and likely impacts of HIV/AIDS on the
society and economy and implications
for sustainable human development.

From an initial discussion with
AIDS Programme Manager Janet
Weston and Permanent Secretary in the
Ministry of Health Clara Emmanuel,
Professor Cohen said his team will be
reviewing the existing epidemiological
and other data on HIV/AIDS for the
region and specifically for Antigua,
projections of HIV prevalence for Antigua
and any demographic and other
implications.

The professor noted that these
reviews of known data and information
will be important for setting both the
context of the current problem and for
making projections of the economic
impact of HIV/AIDS on Antigua.

Mr. Cohen added that the team
will undertake key informant discussions
with all of the key stakeholders with the
aim of collecting data and information
relevant to the report. These discussions
will be with essential parts of the pubic
sector such as Ministries of Tourism and
Agriculture.

Mr. Cohen also indicated that
discussions will be held with the private
sector where the objective will be to
gather data and elicit support for
workplace programmes that help to
sustain human resources capacity.


Issue No.107


In all discussions with
Government the focus will be on how best
to sustain human resources capacity,
which is threatened by HIV/AIDS and how
to strengthen the workplace programmes
that are comprehensive (addressing HIV
prevention, care and support and
treatment).

The study, he said, will therefore
serve to strengthen the national response
to HIV/AIDS in Antigua and Barbuda and
to raise awareness and understanding
amongst key stakeholders. The objective
of the study is to review the existing
enabling environment including public,
political, private and governmental and
the effort required to constrain the
diseases.

It will also identify the practical
activities that are feasible in the country,
and which are needed if the socioeconomic
aspects of the epidemic are to be
addressed in a timely and effective
manner.

The other United Nations
Development Programme members are
Programme Manager of Poverty
Reduction, Leisa Perch and Programme
Associate HIV/AIDS and Poverty
Reduction, Letitia Nicholas.



Antigua and Barbuda
attends OECS Task Force
discussions on Economic
Union

Antigua and Barbuda was
represented at a meeting of the Task Force
established by OECS Heads of
Government to examine recommendations
on the question of OECS economic union.

At the 34th meeting of the OECS
Authority in Dominica in July 2001, the
Heads of Government endorsed proposals
for the deepening of the sub-regional


February 2006


Ambassador Colin Murdoch


Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

economic integration process with
the goal of creating an economic
union. They created a Task Force
charged with the responsibility of
charting the course for the OECS
member states to achieve economic
union.

The Task Force meeting in
St. Kitts on February 23 met under
the chairmanship of Sir K. Dwight
Venner, governor of the Eastern
Caribbean Central Bank and
reviewed the draft treaty for the
establishment of the OECS
Economic Union. The working draft
of the treaty had been on the agenda
of the OECS Authority meeting in
November 2005. At that meeting, the
heads of government directed that
further work be done.

Antigua and Barbuda's
representative on the Task Force
which comprises senior officials from
OECS member states is
Ambassador Colin Murdoch,
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs.

Ambassador Murdoch said
that an economic union represents
the highest form of economic
integration and it involves the
(continues on page 10)


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GOVERNMENT NEW,


Issue No. 107 February 2006


Miss Lorraine Headley, Director-General of


Government announces
the appointment of Director
General of Tourism

The Government of Antigua
and Barbuda has appointed Miss
Lorraine Headley as the Director
General of Tourism.

"Miss Headley brings a wealth
of experience to the post, having worked
in the local and regional tourism industry.
We are pleased to have her at the helm
of the technical team," said Tourism
Minister expressing satisfaction with the
appointment.

Miss Headley who joined the
Ministry of Tourism in 1999 has worked
closely with the private sector having
undertaken a three year secondment to
the Antigua Hotels and Tourist
Association. She believes that this
understanding of the needs of the private
sector will assist in the strengthening of
the relationship with stakeholders.

"The tourism industry is
recognized as unique in that the


Government is responsible for
managing and developing the
industry, however the majority of
the assets that comprise the
industry are owned by the
private sector. A strong
partnership between the public
and private sectors is vital for the
future development of tourism in
Antigua and Barbuda," Headley
said.

Miss Headley continued
"I am honoured to lead the
technical team of the Ministry as
we seek to improve standards
and develop a culture of
excellence throughout the
industry. We have a lot of work
Tourism to do, and we are committed to
making a tangible difference."

Miss Headley began her career in
the Government service in 1990 in the then
Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce
as Co-ordinator of Industrial Development.
From 1992 she worked for the
Organization of Eastern Caribbean States
as Tourism Economist where she played a
technical role in the evaluation and policy
planning of tourism and related sectors in
the eight islands comprising the OECS,
and provided management support for the
three year European Union OECS Tourism
Development Programme.

Following a short period at the
Antigua Commercial Bank as Research
and Development Officer when the OECS
Antigua Office closed in 1997, Miss
Headley returned to tourism as Product
Development Officer at the Ministry of
Tourism in 1999.

In 2000, she was seconded to the
Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association as
Project Manager of the three year Antigua
and Barbuda Tourism Development
Programme which focused on improving
research capacity, providing training in
technical skills and customer service, and


developing proposals
small businesses in
sector.


to enhance
the tourism


In 2003 Miss Headley was
part of the team that developed a
successful bid for Antigua and
Barbuda hosting matches in the
Cricket World Cup 2007. She
returned to the Ministry of Tourism in
August 2004 as Director of Product
Development.

Born in England of Antiguan
parentage, Miss Headley obtained a
Bachelor of Arts Degree in
Mathematics and Economics from
Cambridge University, and following
her graduation in 1990, she re-
located to Antigua. Miss Headley
also completed a Masters Degree in
Business Administration from the
University of the West Indies in 1997




(continued from page 9)
creation of a single or internal market
and requires high degree of
harmonization of member States'
national policies.

"An OECS economic union
assumes greater importance and
urgency given the imperatives of the
CSME," stated Ambassador
Murdoch. "OECS countries should
always have a higher degree of
integration than CARICOM. We are
therefore seeking to create an
economic space without internal
frontiers in which free movement of
goods, services persons and capital
is ensured."

It is expected that the final
proposals of the Task Force,
together with the draft treaty, will go
before the OECS Authority and the
individual cabinets of member states
for ratification.


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GOVERNMENT NEW,

Week of Government's
Securities Road Show
Presentations in the Region
culminates in Dominica

During the week which
culminated on 24th February, the
Government of Antigua and Barbuda
Road Show team travelled to several
Caribbean countries to promote
Treasury Bills and a long term Bond
programme through which the
Government will issue EC$151 million in
securities on the Regional Government
Securities Market (RGSM).

The team, headed by the
Minister of Finance Dr. Errol Cort, held
discussions with potential investors in
Antigua, St. Kitts, Trinidad, Grenada, St.
Vincent, St. Lucia and on Friday 24th
February, investors in Dominica received
the opportunity to interact with the team.

Mrs Rosamund Edwards,
Financial Secretary in the Ministry of
Finance in Dominica, opened the
proceedings with welcoming remarks to
the team and the participants and wished
the Government of Antigua and Barbuda
every success with its treasury bills and
bond programme. Following these
welcoming remarks, Dr. Cort presented
an overview of the economic prospects
for Antigua and Barbuda and stressed
that there were many ongoing
programmes aimed at generating
increased efficiency, accountability and
transparency in public sector operations.

The Minister indicated that the
positive outlook for the economy of
Antigua and Barbuda further strengthens
the position that investment in these
securities would be sound, safe and
profitable. Dr. Cort also emphasized that
the Government's willingness and
capacity to pay and indicated that
arrangements have been put in place to
ensure interest and maturity payments
would be made when they become due.


Presentations were also made on
the roles and functions of the Regional
Government Securities Market and the
Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange
(ECSE) in the process. Further, the
Manager of the ABI Bank Limited,
Investment Department, delivered a
presentation on the role of the Bank as
Arranger of the Treasury Bills and Bond
issue. He reiterated that the Government
and the Bank had payment mechanisms in
place and pointed out that the ABI Bank
Ltd. was very confident that this critical
initiative would be very successful.

The presentation made by the
Financial Secretary of Antigua and
Barbuda focused on the importance of the
RGSM to the Government as it provides an
alternative and lower cost source of
financing for the governments of the
Eastern Caribbean. He also outlined the
structure and details of the Treasury bills
and the long term bond.

During the question and answer
session, it was pointed out that the efforts
undertaken to date by the Government of
Antigua and Barbuda were very
impressive. The Minister was encouraged
to continue to provide updates on activities
to enhance economic performance in
Antigua and Barbuda to the general public
across the region. This, it was pointed out,
would be essential in generating investor
interest in the Government's securities and
in promoting a change in the perception of
Antigua and Barbuda. Participants
indicated that they would support the
Government of Antigua and Barbuda and
were willing to collaborate with the
Government to ensure a successful
initiative. Further, it was indicated that the
interest rates on the securities being
offered by the Government of Antigua and
Barbuda were more attractive than what
currently exists on the market.

In closing, the Minister indicated
that the Government of Antigua and
Barbuda was following other governments
of the ECCU region in issuing securities on
the RGSM. He indicated that this provided


Issue No. 107 February 2006

an opportunity for investors in the
region to support the further
expansion and development of the
RGSM and the ECSE. Dr. Cort
further noted that in supporting the
development of these regional
mechanisms, the people of the
region would also be instrumental in
facilitating economic development of
the countries of the region. The
Minister stressed that this is just
another element of regional
integration as it allows the people of
Antigua and Barbuda to invest in
securities issued by other regional
governments and likewise the people
of the region to invest in securities
issued by Antigua and Barbuda.

The Government is working
in collaboration with the ABI Bank
Ltd. to raise EC$51 million on the
RGSM via the ECSE. The securities
will be in the form of a ninety-one (91)
day Treasury Bill issue and will be
issued in three trenches of EC$17
Million. The first tranche of EC$17
million will be issued on March 15th
2006 and the remaining trenches will
be issued in the consecutive months.
Later in the year the Government is
expected to float an EC$100 million
Bond. The ABI Bank Ltd. will act on
behalf of the Government as
Arranger of these securities.

Dr. Cort and his team will
next travel to New York and Toronto
where presentations on the
economic prospect of Antigua and
Barbuda will be made.

Individuals and institutions
who wish to receive additional
information on the Government's
Treasury Bills and Bond programme
are encouraged to contact the Road
Show team on email
antiqua.tbills(@.mail.com


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258


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GOVERNMENT NEW


Prime Minister Spencer (centre) Secretary-General Carrington and Ivor Carryl (right)
Minister of Finance and Economy Dr Cort and Ambassador Colin Murdoch (left)


Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

CARICOM Secretary
General visits with PM
Spencer on CSME Matters

On the 27th February,
Secretary General of CARICOM Dr.
Edwin Carrington made a special visit to
Antigua and Barbuda to meet with senior
government officials.

Secretary General Carrington
stated that he came to St. John's to
clarify a few matters relating to CSME
and to provide whatever support Antigua
and Barbuda may require in meeting the
30 June date for CSME implementation.

Prime Minister Baldwin
Spencer hosted Secretary General
Carrington in a meeting in the Cabinet
Secretariat which included Finance and
Economy Minister Dr. L Errol Cort;
Ambassador Colin Murdoch, Permanent
Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs; Mr. Cordell Weston, Permanent
Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and
Economy; Ambassador Dr. Clarence
Henry, Director of Trade and head of the


CSME Unit in the Ministry of Finance and
Economy; Mr. Lebrecht Hesse, Solicitor
General in the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and
other staff members of the CSME Unit.

Secretary General Carrington
was accompanied by Mr. Ivor Carryl,
Programme Manager at the Secretariat
responsible for CSME technical assistance.

During the four hour meeting,
Secretary General Carrington undertook to
commit whatever resources were required
to make Antigua and Barbuda CSME
ready, and said that he would identify
technical resources which Antigua and
Barbuda may require.

On the invitation of Prime Minister
Spencer, Finance and Economy Minister
Dr. Errol Cort outlined government's
programme for launching of CSME in
Antigua and Barbuda and identified areas
where CARICOM could work in support of
the national programme.

The question of legislation to
implement the CSME was also discussed
and government gave the assurance that


Issue No. 107 February 2006

the Ministry of Legal Affairs had
sufficient capacity to deal with the
situation. It was also agreed that
there would be a role for the
CARICOM Secretariat in this
process.

Certain aspects of the
Regional Development Fund were
also ventilated with a view to
clarifying how Antigua and Barbuda
could access the Fund. Also on the
meeting's agenda was the issue of
the merger of the CARICOM and
CARIFORUM Secretariats and the
concerns of certain CARICOM
member states were set out.



(continued from page 7)
Mr. Tabor was then
employed by the Organisation of
Eastern Caribbean States,(OECS),
from 1988 to 2000, first as
Agriculture Officer in Antigua and
Barbuda for a number of years, then
as an Economist at the OECS
Agricultural Diversification Co-
ordinating Unit, in Dominica.

He left to pursue studies in
law, at the University of London,
graduating in 2003. He received his
Legal Education Certificate from the
Norman Manley Law School,
University of the West Indies and
was called to the bar in October
2005. Mr. Tabor replaces Attorney
-at-Law, Mr. Conliffe Clarke who
acted as Deputy Registrar for a
period of time.

The Minister, in his
presentation stated that 'the filling of
these posts by these two capable
persons, is an indication to the public
that this administration is serious
about improving the justice system
and indeed, trying to strive for a very
high standard of efficiency in the
administration of justice in Antigua
and Barbuda.'


2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP


Tel: 020 7258 0070 Fax: 020 7258


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PAGE 1

T he United States government has pledged to work closely with Antigua and Barbuda and Regional Security System (RSS) countries to develop their security capabilities for World Cup Cricket 2007. During a visit with Prime Minister Spencer, United States Ambassador Mrs Mary Kramer and Lieutenant General H Steven Blum outlined the areas in which the United States government will assist the countries attached to the RSS in getting them ready for the event which is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region. Lieutenant General Blum, who is Chief of the National Guard Bureau in Arlington, Virginia, said that there are a number of areas that his division is prepared to work along with Antigua and Barbuda and the RSS countries. Prime Minister Spencer who is also the Chairman of the RSS said that he is delighted that the United States is lending assistance to the region in such an important area and at such a critical time when security will be of high priority to the region. Prime Minister Spencer also thanked Ambassador Kramer for her efforts in working to ensure that the region receives the assistance from the United States government. He also asked her to convey best wishes to President George Bush and Mrs. Bush whom he met in September last year during a reception hosted by the President at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York to celebrate the Sixtieth United Nations General Assembly. The meeting was also attended by Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister Mrs. Maudlyn Richards, Deputy Commander Edward Croft of the ABDF and Officers of the National Guard Bureau. During the day, Lieutenant General Blum also held talks with the hierarchy of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force and inspected a Guard of Honour. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP http://www.antigua-barbuda.com ISSUE No.107 February 2006 Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer with President of the United States George W Bush and Mrs Bush Digital photo by Maurice Merchant Prime Minister Spencer in discussion with Lieutenant General Blum Digital photo by Maurice Merchant Inside • Prime Minister congratulates Rene Preval on election victory in Haiti (page 5) • Antigua and Barbuda protests US Anti-Gambling Legislation (page 6) • Ambassador Murdoch attends OECS Task Force discussion on Economic Union (page 9) • Government’s Securities Road Show (page 10)

PAGE 2

Dear Readers, I would like to take this opportunity to speak to you on a very important subject. I have been charged by the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda the Honourable Baldwin Spencer to meet and discuss various matters with all Antiguans and Barbudans domiciled in the United Kingdom. To this end, I will make myself available to you, wherever you are in the UK. I would suggest that within your own community if you know of other Antiguans and Barbudans living there, try and make an effort to form a group and I will meet with you at an appropriate meeting place. Now on to other things. As most of you realize, this year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Independence of Antigua and Barbuda. The twenty-fifth yearsÂ’ anniversary celebration provides a wonderful opportunity to analyse the progress we have made since 1st November 1981. No doubt we have achieved much progress but could we have gone further? A little bit of soul searching and reflection is always useful as we develop our plans for the future. We have much to thank God for, for though we have suffered at the hands of several hurricanes, we have managed to rebound. Our progress has come about as a result of much sacrifice. We nonetheless cannot and must not reduce our efforts to ensure that our beloved country remains that lovely place where we will all like to live, and to encourage our friends from around the world to visit and wherever possible to invest in. This year also will pass but the demonstration of unity and good citizenship should prevail and remain with each of us long after the celebrations have ceased. Let us heed the call of Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer to join our brothers and sisters at home to celebrate this grand occasion and in doing so show the world that we, Antiguans and Barbudans, are one, sharing a common bond and a common future. Dr Carl Roberts High Commissioner A MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY DR CARL ROBERTS, HIGH COMMISSIONER 2

PAGE 3

GOVERNMENT NEWS 3 Barbuda Council hosts visit of Overseas Tourism Offices Following a three day meeting of intense discussions to co-ordinate activities in the key tourist generating markets, Directors of Tourism located in the overseas offices recently held an historical meeting with the Barbuda Council. The meeting provided the opportunity for the Council to discuss with the top tourism marketing representatives along with the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Harold Lovell, and his Antigua based team, their vision for tourism in Barbuda and its critical role in marketing the twin island nation as a dual centre vacation spot. Chairman of the Barbuda Council, Randolph Beazer, outlined the potential of Barbuda and emphasised the need for proper representation of Barbudans in tourism development and marketing activities in close collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism. Areas identified for immediate attention in the move towards an improved product are the improvement of basic infrastructure, particularly the roads and airport facilities, and the proper management of the yachting industry which was growing considerably in Barbuda. Minister Trevor Walker, Member of Parliament for Barbuda, accompanied the team throughout the day which included a visit to two of the three properties on island and culminated with a visit to the Codrington House ruins and Caves at Two Foot Bay to review the potential development of these as heritage sites. “This is an exciting occasion and we look forward to continuing the dialogue. Already, we have brainstormed a number of activities which could revitalise Barbuda in the eyes of the visitor. We are extremely happy to meet our tourism representatives overseas and develop a stronger partnership.” The need for an overall tourism plan for Barbuda was emphasised with plans to include Barbuda in the impending preparation of the tourism master plan for the country anticipated to commence later this year. An interim programme would be developed by the Barbuda Council which would assist in a greater focus on Barbuda as an integral part of the tourism product. The Minister of Tourism stressed the importance of the meeting and his commitment to building a stronger relationship with the Barbuda Council. “We are making every effort to market Antigua and Barbuda as a unique Caribbean destination which is only attainable with a strong partnership approach with Barbuda. The many attributes and features of Barbuda complement Antigua, and together the destination provides an experience that no other destination can match”. Minister Lovell continued, “This is only achievable if we have a shared vision and work very closely in seeking to achieve joint benefits.” Immediate results were attained from this momentous occasion with an understanding that space would be provided at the tourism information desk at V.C. Bird International Airport for personnel from Barbuda to utilise, and staff from the Barbuda Council working at the Ministry of Tourism to provide further exposure and training. Greater opportunities would be extended for attendance of key promotional activities by representatives of the Barbuda Council, a programme already commenced with the attendance of Ms. Therez Parker from the Barbuda Council at World Travel Market in 2004, and Mr. Linton Thomas at a recent media launch co-ordinated by the New York Office in November 2005. Plans were already in place to utilise Barbudan Chef Reme Hamlet at the annual CTO Caribbean Week in New York scheduled for June 2006. The visit to Barbuda was the highlight of the first 2006 biannual meeting of overseas offices which seeks to strengthen collaboration in a more aggressive global marketing effort and ensure synergy among the marketing representatives. The meeting reviewed marketing plans and budgets and various on-island activities, particularly the hosting of travel agents and media which has been the primary thrust of marketing activities for Antigua and Barbuda. Discussions were also held on the opportunities for embracing 2006 as the 25 th Independence Anniversary in promotional activities emphasising the cultural, historical and heritage attributes of the country. Representatives of World Cup Antigua Incorporated also updated the marketing representatives on Cricket World Cup preparations. Additional meetings were held with Carnival Co-ordinator, Vaughn Walter, to ensure early promotion of Carnival in 2006 and the 50 th Celebrations in 2007. Meetings were also held with the Marketing and Sales Managers of both LIAT and Caribbean Star in an effort to increase linkages with the French islands, a market researched as having major potential for Antigua and Barbuda, particularly in the summer months. A number of major promotional activities are planned for the first half of the year with a recognition that “Antigua and Barbuda cannot be outside of the arena and seek to compete in the Olympics”, with ongoing preparations for the launch of a new look and image for Antigua and Barbuda in the marketplace to be rolled out later in 2006. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006

PAGE 4

GOVERNMENT NEWS 4 Health Minister and British Commissioner discuss cooperation On the 13th February the new Resident British Commissioner Mr Terence Knight paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Health John Maginley. During their brief meeting both Officials discussed the continued technical cooperation between the United Kingdom and Antigua and Barbuda. They also spoke about the up coming Cricket World Cup 2007, and the touring Antigua team which went to England last year. The country’s health services and sports in general were also discussed. Mr Knight took up his appointment on January 1, 2006 upon the retirement of Ms Jean Sharp. The British Government has assisted the Government of Antigua and Barbuda in its health care services, by providing funding for the Browne’s Avenue Health Centre, Clare Hall Health Centre, Pigotts Clinic and the All Saints Health Centre. The strengthening of cooperation will continue between both countries. Ministry receives tangible donation towards the development of the Fort James Beach On 13th February Minister of Tourism Harold Lovell was presented with an EC$5000 cheque for the development of the Fort James Beach as a Heritage Tourism site. The funds which will be directed towards the first phase of the project, mainly the construction of change rooms and rest rooms within the area, were presented by Philbert Mason on behalf of MSM Industries Ltd, responsible for building a Best Western Property in Antigua in time for the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup. In accepting the funds on behalf of his Ministry, Mr Lovell expressed his thanks for the gesture noting that it will go a long way in securing the commencement of the first phase of the project. “I am indeed happy that Best Western has sought to hold confidence in the national economy as it stands and in times to come,” Minister Lovell noted. He continued, “It is also a firm demonstration of good corporate relations”. While giving a brief overview of the project, Heritage Tourism Officer, Bert Lindsay mentioned that a proposal is being drafted for the designation of the area as a national park. The proposed extent of the site covers an area with Fort James as the centre; extending on the Northern side to Sand Haven (Fort Hamilton); moving south along the road east of Dry Hill; onto Bay Street then on to Dickenson Bay Street; down to Rat Island. Mr. Mason relayed that as CEO and Manager of MSM he is pleased to be attempting to place on the shores of Antigua and Barbuda a 104 room five star hotel, and it is a privilege to work with the government on the initial stages of the Fort James project as its aim is to enhance the Dickenson Bay area. Mason also informed the Minister of his company’s intention to donate two complimentary three night stays at any Best Western property around the world. These prizes will be given to the winners of the 2006 Carnival Queen competition and the Calypso Monarch competition. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Minister Maginley and the British Government Official Digital photo by Consuela Parker (left) Minister accepts cheque from Philbert Mason Digital photo by Samoya Kirby

PAGE 5

GOVERNMENT NEWS 5 PM Spencer congratulates Rene Preval on election victory in Haiti Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has congratulated the leader of the L’Espwa (The Hope) Party, Rene Preval, on his victory at the polls in Haiti. Mr. Preval, a former ally of deposed President Jean Bertrand Aristide, was declared the winner of the presidential elections having won by an overwhelming majority of the votes. Prime Minister Spencer also joined his CARICOM colleagues in issuing an official message calling the Haitian elections as a wonderful moment and declaring that French nation now has a democratic government which could sit down with CARICOM and discuss its re-entry into the regional grouping. CARICOM suspended Haiti’s membership after the ousting of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide two years ago. In his letter Prime Minister Spencer said: “I present my compliments and have the honour to offer you the congratulations and best wishes of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda on the great victory by your party at the polls on 7 th February. I take special pleasure in congratulating you on your election to the office of President of the Republic. In my view, the elections of 7 th February were a special opportunity to resolve the difficulties of the past and to put Haiti upon a new path that will lead to growth and development. While there are many challenges ahead, I am comforted by the personal qualities and experience that you bring to your office; and with the goodwill and support of the people of the Caribbean and the international community, the people of Haiti, who so overwhelmingly supported your vision of hope, can now be placed at the centre of all development efforts. I look forward to working with you, both at the regional and bilateral levels, in ensuring that the people we represent in our respective countries will have a bright Caribbean future.” Japan’s Ambassador pays farewell call on Prime Minister Spencer On 20 th February, Japanese Ambassador Shigenobu Kato paid his farewell call on senior Government officials in Antigua and Barbuda. Ambassador Kato, who is based in Port-of-Spain Trinidad, called on Governor General Sir James Carlisle and Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer. Ambassador Kato thanked the Prime Minister for his government’s support on many international issues of importance to Japan. He pointed out that since arriving in the region, this was his tenth visit to Antigua and Barbuda, and it was an indication of how much the relationship has grown. Prime Minister Spencer thanked the Ambassador for his country’s interest in Antigua and Barbuda and the support given to the development efforts. He hoped that Ambassador Kato’s successor would build on the efforts made and take Antigua and Barbuda/Japan relations to a new level. Ambassador Kato indicated that he was being transferred to be the Ambassador in Jordan, and that his successor would be arriving in the region in mid-March. Both men reviewed various project and elements in the relationship including the next phase in fisheries project development envisaged for the sister island of Barbuda. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Prime Minister Spencer and Ambassador Kato Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

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GOVERNMENT NEWS 6 Antigua and Barbuda protests U.S. Anti-Gambling Legislation The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has sent a letter to Rob Portman, the United States Trade Representative, in response to recent legislation introduced in the United States Congress regarding Internet gambling. In 2005, Antigua won a case against the United States in the World Trade Organization over the US prohibition on Internet gambling services offered to American consumers from Antigua, and under WTO procedures the United States was given until 3 April 2006 to bring its laws into compliance with the WTO decision. However, the only legislation introduced into the Congress to date have been bills sponsored by Congressmen Jim Leach (R-Iowa) and Bob Goodlatte (R-Virginia), both of whom seek to impose further restrictions on Internet gambling. In his letter of 16 February 2006 to Ambassador Portman, the Antiguan Ambassador to the WTO Dr. John W. Ashe notes that both pieces of legislation are in a number of respects directly contrary to the ruling of the WTO in the gambling dispute. “As of today,” noted Ambassador Ashe, “with less than two months remaining on an 11 month and two week compliance period, to our knowledge no legislation has been introduced into the Congress that would seek to bring the United States into compliance with the [WTO] recommendations. Further, your government has given no indication to Antigua and Barbuda as to how the United States intends to effect such compliance. The only legislative efforts so far, the Goodlatte Bill and the Leach Bill, are baldly contrary to the rulings and recommendations of the [WTO]. We can only assume that this legislation was neither sponsored by nor enjoys the support of the USTR (US Trade Representative) and the current American administration.” Mark Mendel, lead counsel representing Antigua in the WTO case, observed that the exceptions to the Internet gambling prohibition contained in both of the Bills highlight the discriminatory trade effect of the United States prohibition on the cross-border provision of gambling and betting services into the US. “By creating carve-outs for certain domestic remote gambling opportunities, including in particular wholly-intrastate remote gambling, both of these pieces of legislation fly directly in the face of the WTO ruling. The economic basis of the US restrictions simply cannot be more obvious.” Ambassador Ashe further expressed his country’s commitment to the case, noting “Antigua and Barbuda stands prepared to ensure that our people reap the benefits of this historic decision. We will use the avenues open to us at the WTO and otherwise to see that the United States complies with the decision in a timely and comprehensive manner. As always however, we encourage the United States government to engage with Antigua and Barbuda directly to craft a workable solution to our dispute that addresses the concerns of both nations.” Korean Ambassador says farewell On 21st February, Korean Ambassador Lee Joon-il paid a farewell call on Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and Governor General Sir James Carlisle. Ambassador Lee, who is based in the Dominican Republic, is expected to be re-assigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Korean Capital of Seoul. During his meeting with Prime Minister Spencer, Ambassador Lee spoke of Antigua and Barbuda’s valuable support for a diplomatic solution to the nuclear problem on the Korean peninsula with the 6-party talks. Ambassador Lee pointed out that the diplomatic process was moving very slowly. Prime Minister Spencer wished Ambassador Lee every success in his new posting and assured him that his administration will continue building the relations with his country. The Republic of Korea has assisted Antigua and Barbuda in several areas including hospital equipment, computers, dental equipment and vehicles. Ambassador Lee also reminded Prime Minister Spencer of the Republic of Korea’s candidacy for the Secretary-Generalship of the United Nations. Mr. Kofi Annan will demit office in December of 2006, and the Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Ban Ki-moon is considered a frontrunner for the position. 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and Ambassador Lee Joon-il Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

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GOVERNMENT NEWS 7 South African Cricketing Delegation discusses World Cup Cricket 2007 with Antiguan officials On the request of the Government of Prime Minister Spencer, a six member South African cricket delegation headed by High Commissioner Designate Her Excellency Faith Radebe visited Antigua and Barbuda and held meetings with officials of the Antigua Cricket World Cup. Antigua and Barbuda made good on an offer by the Government of South Africa to provide technical assistance for the staging of World Cup Cricket 2007. Present on the South African delegation were the Assistant Commissioner of the South African Police Services and the Chief Director of the South African Department of Sports. According to Chairman of the meeting the Minister of Sports, John Maginley, technical assistance from the South Africans will be in the areas of security, grounds preparation, event management and marketing. “These priority areas are not only specific to Antigua and Barbuda but are relevant areas of need for the other Caribbean countries hosting World Cup Cricket 2007. South Africa, having already hosted numerous world class events has expertise from which the Caribbean can draw upon,” said Minister Maginley. Registrar and Deputy Registrar appointed to the High Court Newly appointed Registrar and Deputy Registrar of the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda were formally introduced at a press conference in the Ministry of Justice, presided over by , Minister of Justice Senator Colin Derrick and Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Barbara Belle. The position of Registrar was filled by Dominican national, Ms Sandra Julien, while Mr. Charlesworth Tabor, an Antiguan was appointed as Deputy Registrar, both pledging to do all that was possible to ensure the efficient running of the High Court. Ms Julien, a graduate of the University of the West Indies, was admitted as Barrister-at-Law and Solicitor of the High Court, Commonwealth of Dominica in November, 2001 has brought a wealth of knowledge of Civil Service Rules and Regulations to her new position. As a result of her experience and knowledge of the operations and workings of the High Court Registry in Dominica, Ms Julien was appointed to the Office of Deputy Registrar (qualified) in October, 2003. Prior to this appointment, she served as State Attorney in the Attorney General’s Office, also in her native Dominica, and had acted in the office of Registrar, Registrar General and Provost Marshall on a number of occasions. Ms Julien replaces Attorney-atLaw, Mrs. Laurie Freeland Roberts, who acted in the post for a number of years, while at the same time officiating in her substantive post as Registrar of the Intellectual Property and Commerce Office. Mr. Tabor worked as an Employment Officer in the Labour Department in Antigua and Barbuda from 1974 to 1978, before pursuing his Bachelors Degree in Economics at St. Mary’s University, Halifax Canada, and his Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics, from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. (continue on page 10) 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Minister Maginley in conversation with South African High Commissioner Designate Faith Radebe and African Union Ambassador Designate Bruce Goodwin Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant (l to r) Mr Charlesworth Tabor, Ms. Sandra Julien, Minister of Justice Senator Colin Derrick and Permanent Secretary Mrs Barbara Belle

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GOVERNMENT NEWS 8 Friday 31st March, 2006 We will have a Recognition Banquet, at which we will recognize all Moravian Ministers who served in Antigua and specially highlight the Antiguans. The cost of the Banquet is US$50.00 and will take place at the Grand Royal Antiguan Hotel. Tickets are limited to 400 persons and is on a first come, first served basis. Saturday 1st April 2006 (Anniversary Date) Pan Festival, including all the Steelbands in the Moravian Church Antigua, with Cable and Wireless Hellsgate and West Indies Oil Gemonites as guest. Since this is the actual Anniversary date, we will have a forty-five minute service in all our congregations from 6:00 am. The exact service will be done in all of our congregations. Sunday 2nd April 2006 Anniversary Thanksgiving Service Monday 3rd April 2006 Spring Gardens night Tuesday 4th April 2006 Official Government Reception to mark the event to which all Overseas Guests will be invited. Wednesday 5th April 2006 Anniversary Programme/ Moravian Hymns and their stories. Thursday 6th April Youth Explosion Friday 7th April A Deeper Life Service of Recommitment An Anniversary March will take place from 5:30 pm to Spring Gardens and the service will begin at 7:00 pm. An Exhibition of Moravian work and things Moravian will run for 6 months from 3rd April at the National Archives. The General Post Office will launch a set of commemorative Stamps on the 3rd April on the Moravian Church, which each Moravian needs to get. A Commemorative Magazine is being produced for the event. There will be lots of Souvenir items available. Please come and be with us. I implore you to communicate as often as possible with us so that we can be on top of things. • Can you help help? As part of the celebrations, an exhibition of the work of the Church in Antigua is being planned. The Exhibition Committee is requesting the assistance of persons who have photographs, documents and other mementos in their possession either loan or donate such items for display at the Antigua and Barbuda National Archives. All items will be promptly returned. • Recognition Banquet The Banquet is scheduled to be held at the Grand Royal Antiguan Hotel. The contribution for the Banquet is US$50.00 or EC$135.00 and will be sold on a first come, first serve basis. • 250 Club As part of the celebrations, we have launched the 250 Club. We invite you to join the Club as a sign of your pledge and commitment to the continued development and advancement of the Moravian Church. In order to join this Club, persons will pay EC$250.00. One dollar for each year the Moravian Church has been in existence in Antigua. Each member of the Club will receive a special 250th Commemorative PIN. Rev. Dr. Cortroy Jarvis Chair of the Anniversary Committee 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 The Moravian Church Antigua will celebrate 250 years of work and witness for the Lord in 2006. From its humble beginnings on the 1st April, 1756 under Samuel Isles, the Church has impacted and affected the Antiguan community in a real way. Our church has played a tremendous role in the development of our Antiguan people spiritually, educationally, socially, economically and generally in every sphere of life. We are proud of our heritage and thank God for having brought us thus far. To mark this momentous occasion, we are inviting all Moravians to celebrate with us in a week of celebrations from 31st March to 6th April SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

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GOVERNMENT NEWS 9 PAHO Officials to conduct survey of HIV/AIDS Impact on Antigua and Barbuda A team of consultants from the United Nations Development Programme are in Antigua to conduct a one-month socio-economic assessment on HIV/AIDS in the country. The team which is headed by Professor Desmond Cohen will assist the government to identify the existing and likely impacts of HIV/AIDS on the society and economy and implications for sustainable human development. From an initial discussion with AIDS Programme Manager Janet Weston and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health Clara Emmanuel, Professor Cohen said his team will be reviewing the existing epidemiological and other data on HIV/AIDS for the region and specifically for Antigua, projections of HIV prevalence for Antigua and any demographic and other implications. The professor noted that these reviews of known data and information will be important for setting both the context of the current problem and for making projections of the economic impact of HIV/AIDS on Antigua. Mr. Cohen added that the team will undertake key informant discussions with all of the key stakeholders with the aim of collecting data and information relevant to the report. These discussions will be with essential parts of the pubic sector such as Ministries of Tourism and Agriculture. Mr. Cohen also indicated that discussions will be held with the private sector where the objective will be to gather data and elicit support for workplace programmes that help to sustain human resources capacity. In all discussions with Government the focus will be on how best to sustain human resources capacity, which is threatened by HIV/AIDS and how to strengthen the workplace programmes that are comprehensive (addressing HIV prevention, care and support and treatment). The study, he said, will therefore serve to strengthen the national response to HIV/AIDS in Antigua and Barbuda and to raise awareness and understanding amongst key stakeholders. The objective of the study is to review the existing enabling environment including public, political, private and governmental and the effort required to constrain the diseases. It will also identify the practical activities that are feasible in the country, and which are needed if the socioeconomic aspects of the epidemic are to be addressed in a timely and effective manner. The other United Nations Development Programme members are Programme Manager of Poverty Reduction, Leisa Perch and Programme Associate HIV/AIDS and Poverty Reduction, Letitia Nicholas. Antigua and Barbuda attends OECS Task Force discussions on Economic Union Antigua and Barbuda was represented at a meeting of the Task Force established by OECS Heads of Government to examine recommendations on the question of OECS economic union. At the 34 th meeting of the OECS Authority in Dominica in July 2001, the Heads of Government endorsed proposals for the deepening of the sub-regional economic integration process with the goal of creating an economic union. They created a Task Force charged with the responsibility of charting the course for the OECS member states to achieve economic union. The Task Force meeting in St. Kitts on February 23 met under the chairmanship of Sir K. Dwight Venner, governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and reviewed the draft treaty for the establishment of the OECS Economic Union. The working draft of the treaty had been on the agenda of the OECS Authority meeting in November 2005. At that meeting, the heads of government directed that further work be done. Antigua and Barbuda’s representative on the Task Force which comprises senior officials from OECS member states is Ambassador Colin Murdoch, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Murdoch said that an economic union represents the highest form of economic integration and it involves the ( continues on page 10) 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 7486 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Ambassador Colin Murdoch Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant

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Government announces the appointment of Director General of Tourism The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has appointed Miss Lorraine Headley as the Director General of Tourism. “Miss Headley brings a wealth of experience to the post, having worked in the local and regional tourism industry. We are pleased to have her at the helm of the technical team,” said Tourism Minister expressing satisfaction with the appointment. Miss Headley who joined the Ministry of Tourism in 1999 has worked closely with the private sector having undertaken a three year secondment to the Antigua Hotels and Tourist Association. She believes that this understanding of the needs of the private sector will assist in the strengthening of the relationship with stakeholders. “The tourism industry is recognized as unique in that the Government is responsible for managing and developing the industry, however the majority of the assets that comprise the industry are owned by the private sector. A strong partnership between the public and private sectors is vital for the future development of tourism in Antigua and Barbuda,” Headley said. Miss Headley continued “I am honoured to lead the technical team of the Ministry as we seek to improve standards and develop a culture of excellence throughout the industry. We have a lot of work to do, and we are committed to making a tangible difference.” Miss Headley began her career in the Government service in 1990 in the then Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce as Co-ordinator of Industrial Development. From 1992 she worked for the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States as Tourism Economist where she played a technical role in the evaluation and policy planning of tourism and related sectors in the eight islands comprising the OECS, and provided management support for the three year European Union OECS Tourism Development Programme. Following a short period at the Antigua Commercial Bank as Research and Development Officer when the OECS Antigua Office closed in 1997, Miss Headley returned to tourism as Product Development Officer at the Ministry of Tourism in 1999. In 2000, she was seconded to the Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association as Project Manager of the three year Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Development Programme which focused on improving research capacity, providing training in technical skills and customer service, and developing proposals to enhance small businesses in the tourism sector. In 2003 Miss Headley was part of the team that developed a successful bid for Antigua and Barbuda hosting matches in the Cricket World Cup 2007. She returned to the Ministry of Tourism in August 2004 as Director of Product Development. Born in England of Antiguan parentage, Miss Headley obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics and Economics from Cambridge University, and following her graduation in 1990, she relocated to Antigua. Miss Headley also completed a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of the West Indies in 1997 ( continued from page 9) creation of a single or internal market and requires high degree of harmonization of member States’ national policies. “An OECS economic union assumes greater importance and urgency given the imperatives of the CSME,” stated Ambassador Murdoch. “OECS countries should always have a higher degree of integration than CARICOM. We are therefore seeking to create an economic space without internal frontiers in which free movement of goods, services persons and capital is ensured.” It is expected that the final proposals of the Task Force, together with the draft treaty, will go before the OECS Authority and the individual cabinets of member states for ratification. GOVERNMENT NEWS 10 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Miss Lorraine Headley, Director-General of Tourism

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GOVERNMENT NEWS 11 Week of Government’s Securities Road Show Presentations in the Region culminates in Dominica During the week which culminated on 24th February, the Government of Antigua and Barbuda Road Show team travelled to several Caribbean countries to promote Treasury Bills and a long term Bond programme through which the Government will issue EC$151 million in securities on the Regional Government Securities Market (RGSM). The team, headed by the Minister of Finance Dr. Errol Cort, held discussions with potential investors in Antigua, St. Kitts, Trinidad, Grenada, St. Vincent, St. Lucia and on Friday 24 th February, investors in Dominica received the opportunity to interact with the team. Mrs Rosamund Edwards, Financial Secretary in the Ministry of Finance in Dominica, opened the proceedings with welcoming remarks to the team and the participants and wished the Government of Antigua and Barbuda every success with its treasury bills and bond programme. Following these welcoming remarks, Dr. Cort presented an overview of the economic prospects for Antigua and Barbuda and stressed that there were many ongoing programmes aimed at generating increased efficiency, accountability and transparency in public sector operations. The Minister indicated that the positive outlook for the economy of Antigua and Barbuda further strengthens the position that investment in these securities would be sound, safe and profitable. Dr. Cort also emphasized that the Government’s willingness and capacity to pay and indicated that arrangements have been put in place to ensure interest and maturity payments would be made when they become due.   Presentations were also made on the roles and functions of the Regional Government Securities Market and the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE) in the process. Further, the Manager of the ABI Bank Limited, Investment Department, delivered a presentation on the role of the Bank as Arranger of the Treasury Bills and Bond issue. He reiterated that the Government and the Bank had payment mechanisms in place and pointed out that the ABI Bank Ltd. was very confident that this critical initiative would be very successful. The presentation made by the Financial Secretary of Antigua and Barbuda focused on the importance of the RGSM to the Government as it provides an alternative and lower cost source of financing for the governments of the Eastern Caribbean. He also outlined the structure and details of the Treasury bills and the long term bond. During the question and answer session, it was pointed out that the efforts undertaken to date by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda were very impressive. The Minister was encouraged to continue to provide updates on activities to enhance economic performance in Antigua and Barbuda to the general public across the region. This, it was pointed out, would be essential in generating investor interest in the Government’s securities and in promoting a change in the perception of Antigua and Barbuda. Participants indicated that they would support the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and were willing to collaborate with the Government to ensure a successful initiative. Further, it was indicated that the interest rates on the securities being offered by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda were more attractive than what currently exists on the market. In closing, the Minister indicated that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda was following other governments of the ECCU region in issuing securities on the RGSM. He indicated that this provided an opportunity for investors in the region to support the further expansion and development of the RGSM and the ECSE. Dr. Cort further noted that in supporting the development of these regional mechanisms, the people of the region would also be instrumental in facilitating economic development of the countries of the region. The Minister stressed that this is just another element of regional integration as it allows the people of Antigua and Barbuda to invest in securities issued by other regional governments and likewise the people of the region to invest in securities issued by Antigua and Barbuda. The Government is working in collaboration with the ABI Bank Ltd. to raise EC$51 million on the RGSM via the ECSE. The securities will be in the form of a ninety-one (91) day Treasury Bill issue and will be issued in three tranches of EC$17 Million. The first tranche of EC$17 million will be issued on March 15 th 2006 and the remaining tranches will be issued in the consecutive months. Later in the year the Government is expected to float an EC$100 million Bond. The ABI Bank Ltd. will act on behalf of the Government as Arranger of these securities. Dr. Cort and his team will next travel to New York and Toronto where presentations on the economic prospect of Antigua and Barbuda will be made. Individuals and institutions who wish to receive additional information on the Government’s Treasury Bills and Bond programme are encouraged to contact the Road Show team on email antigua.tbills@gmail.com 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006

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CARICOM Secretary General visits with PM Spencer on CSME Matters On the 27th February, Secretary General of CARICOM Dr. Edwin Carrington made a special visit to Antigua and Barbuda to meet with senior government officials. Secretary General Carrington stated that he came to St. John’s to clarify a few matters relating to CSME and to provide whatever support Antigua and Barbuda may require in meeting the 30 June date for CSME implementation. Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer hosted Secretary General Carrington in a meeting in the Cabinet Secretariat which included Finance and Economy Minister Dr. L Errol Cort; Ambassador Colin Murdoch, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Cordell Weston, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economy; Ambassador Dr. Clarence Henry, Director of Trade and head of the CSME Unit in the Ministry of Finance and Economy; Mr. Lebrecht Hesse, Solicitor General in the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and other staff members of the CSME Unit. Secretary General Carrington was accompanied by Mr. Ivor Carryl, Programme Manager at the Secretariat responsible for CSME technical assistance. During the four hour meeting, Secretary General Carrington undertook to commit whatever resources were required to make Antigua and Barbuda CSME ready, and said that he would identify technical resources which Antigua and Barbuda may require. On the invitation of Prime Minister Spencer, Finance and Economy Minister Dr. Errol Cort outlined government’s programme for launching of CSME in Antigua and Barbuda and identified areas where CARICOM could work in support of the national programme. The question of legislation to implement the CSME was also discussed and government gave the assurance that the Ministry of Legal Affairs had sufficient capacity to deal with the situation. It was also agreed that there would be a role for the CARICOM Secretariat in this process. Certain aspects of the Regional Development Fund were also ventilated with a view to clarifying how Antigua and Barbuda could access the Fund. Also on the meeting’s agenda was the issue of the merger of the CARICOM and CARIFORUM Secretariats and the concerns of certain CARICOM member states were set out. (continued from page 7) Mr. Tabor was then employed by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States,(OECS), from 1988 to 2000, first as Agriculture Officer in Antigua and Barbuda for a number of years, then as an Economist at the OECS Agricultural Diversification Coordinating Unit, in Dominica. He left to pursue studies in law, at the University of London, graduating in 2003. He received his Legal Education Certificate from the Norman Manley Law School, University of the West Indies and was called to the bar in October 2005. Mr. Tabor replaces Attorney –at-Law, Mr. Conliffe Clarke who acted as Deputy Registrar for a period of time. The Minister, in his presentation stated that ‘the filling of these posts by these two capable persons, is an indication to the public that this administration is serious about improving the justice system and indeed, trying to strive for a very high standard of efficiency in the administration of justice in Antigua and Barbuda.’ GOVERNMENT NEWS 12 2nd floor, 45 Crawford Place, London W1H 4LP Tel: 020 7258 0070 · Fax: 020 7258 http://www.antigua-barbuda.com Issue No. 107 February 2006 Prime Minister Spencer (centre) Secretary-General Carrington and Ivor Carryl (right) Minister of Finance and Economy Dr Cort and Ambassador Colin Murdoch ( left) Digital photo by Maurice F. Merchant