Home Blog Page 198

Social Development Ministry and UNDP host poverty consultation with THA

Orville London
Chief Secretary,Tobago House of Assembly, Orville London addresses participants at the “No One left behind – Collaborating to Combat Poverty” Consultation.

May 19, 2016: The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services in conjunction with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) hosted a consultation with the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) entitled “No One left behind – Collaborating to Combat Poverty” on Thursday May 12th 2016.

The consultation is part of a series being held throughout Trinidad and Tobago to assist in the development of a comprehensive National Poverty Reduction Strategy (NPRS).
Representative of the UNDP, Ms. Isele Robinson Cooper, in delivering welcome remarks noted that three main factors are key to reducing poverty in all its forms. These include national leadership and ownership, partnership and data. She stressed the importance of the consultation to the “development of a national strategy by the people for the people, while strengthening Trinidad and Tobago’s data and statistical systems.”
Chief Secretary of the THA Mr. Orville London in his address stressed that to be in a position to guide and assist, public servants must put themselves in the positions of the people they most want to help. He also advised attendees to “look at cold hard facts and not make decisions out of emotionalism.”  Chief Secretary London went on to say that “we need resilience to weather these times because with all the research and data there will be times when things appear that they are not working and we will need to carry on.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, Mrs. Jacinta Bailey Sobers delivered remarks on behalf of Minister Cherrie-Ann Crichlow Cockburn.  Mrs Sobers noted that in spite of increased expenditure on social programmes and the expanded range of programmes, poverty rates have actually increased since 2005.
She indicated that the Ministry was in the process of preparing a National Poverty Reduction Strategy to cushion the effects of the current economic downturn, and so it was also an opportune time to begin discussion and engage key stakeholders like the THA. She further stated that it was her hope that the Ministry and the THA “can collaborate to combat poverty, diversify our economy, preserve the environment and by so doing, guarantee a better standard of living for every citizen of Trinidad and Tobago.”
The meeting was attended by several Assemblymen including Tracy Davidson-Celestine, Deputy Chief Secretary and Secretary of Tourism and Transportation, Mr. Joel Jack, Secretary of Finance and Enterprise Development and Mr. Jomo Pitt, Assistant Secretary of Education, Youth Affairs and Sport. The Chief Administrator, Mr Raye Sandy and a number of Administrators were also present at the consultation.
The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services intends to conduct several consultations across municipalities in the upcoming months to garner public interest and input, for the development of the National Poverty Reduction Strategy.

Poverty consultation with THA
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, Mrs. Jacinta Bailey Sobers (Second from left) engages in talks with Mr Raye Sandy, Chief Administrator of the Tobago House of Assembly. Seated at her right are Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly,Orville London and UNDP Representative, Ms. Isele Robinson Cooper. (Photo courtesy the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services)

Transparent promotions among efforts to strengthen police morale

Police officers
Long Service and Good Conduct Awardees

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, MAY 19th, 2016 (PRESS SEC) – The five Inspectors recently promoted to the rank of Acting Superintendent were selected for promotion through a transparent, open and fair process.  This system of promotion is articulated in the 3-Year Improvement Plan of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force.

The plan outlines initiatives aimed at retaining and motivating staff of the police force.  Such initiatives include the retraining of staff, the reinstitution of annual Performance Development Reviews, as well as the reintroduction of a system of promotion that is “transparent, performance and ability-based and open and fair.”
Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris said the decision to reinstate the Police Awards Ceremony in Recognition of Long Service and Good Conduct was a necessary corollary of these initiatives.
The police awards ceremony was held at Government House under the patronage of the Governor General, His Excellency Sir S.W. Tapley Seaton GCMG, CVO, QC, JP, on Thursday, May 12th.  It recognized 25 out of 50 police officers who have served in the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force for at least 18 years.  The remaining 25 officers who have served for a minimum of 18 years will be recognized at a ceremony in the near future.
“I understand that the last time that such an event as this one was held was way back in 2008, perhaps too long a time,” Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris said last Thursday, adding: “So I am delighted that as a consequence of the implementation of the 2016-2019 Police Strategic Plan and, more specifically, the Service Improvement Plan that we have arrived at a point today where we can publicly share some of its underpinning values, which include (i) to retain and motivate staff, (ii) to provide rewards and recognition, and (iii) to have a developed recognition programme for member longevity and enhance use of quality time by recognizing exceptional employee performance through an enhanced police awards programme.”
The Prime Minister continued: “This Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Awards Ceremony is therefore just one of a number of such events that will continue to unfold over the months and years ahead, and that the police, the Ministry of National Security and, by extension, this Unity Government will implement to motivate and improve the morale of all ranks within the police force.”
Prime Minister Harris congratulated the newly promoted Acting Superintendents: Adolph Adams, McCarta Browne, Lyndon David, Diana Mills, and Trevor Mills.
Prime Minister Harris said the promotion selection process did not consist of a “one-man show” nor did any politician in the Team Unity Administration handpick anyone for promotion.
“They were objectively selected through a transparent process, including an interview assessment by a panel,” the Prime Minister said of the five Acting Superintendents who have over 130 years of collective policing experience.  Dr. Harris said the panel comprised several persons qualified to make the recommendations to the Police Service Commission.  Prime Minister Harris added that the panel members are competent and experienced in relevant fields, such as human resource management and law and order.
“As those nominations came, they were sent to the Police Service Commission, which had the final say in relation to them,” the Prime Minister said.  “This is the kind of selection process that we know will add to motivation, and so we are committed as an administration to let fairness reign in the ranks of the police.  I want to be able, as the Minister of National Security, to say with respect to the matter of promotion that this is the result of an objective, independent process.  The police force and all agencies of government well deserve that high level of transparency to which Team Unity is committed,” Prime Minister Harris added.
(Press release courtesy of the Office of the Press Secretary)

Marep begins 1st bacth of Cruise Ship Services training Program for 50 Youth

Cruise Ship Training

The Market Access and Rural Enterprise Development Programme (MAREP) through an agreement with Courtney’s Training Agency commenced Cruise Ship Services Training Program for fifty (50) rural young men and women on Tuesday, May 17th 2016 at Annadale, St. George.

On Wednesday, May 11th  2016 a Youth Motivational Symposium and Orientation which served as an avenue to disseminate information to the trainees and introduce the facilitators was held at the Grenada National Stadium for the selected young persons from rural communities island wide.
The provision of this training is in keeping with MAREP’s commitment to rural development, and in particular to provide access to employment opportunities and assistance with job placement in competitive fields.
The main objective of the Cruise Ship Training is to ensure the trainees are fully equipped with the right knowledge for the hospitality, travel and service industries worldwide.
Feature remark at the Symposium from MAREP Programme Manager’s emphasized that “positive expectation and high level of discipline are expected of each trainee”. This was in line with the keynote from the service provider which highlighted that punctuality and good personality are key international standards outlined by service oriented organizations and cruise ship companies.
Approximately $42,000 (tuition and transportation) will be spent for the 50 trainees to obtain the three (3) months training program which will cover areas such as: Hospitality, Customer Service, Administration, Life Skills and Health & Safety. On successful completion, trainees will receive Competency Certificate, interview and employment opportunities suitable for the said industries.
MAREP is therefore proud to have reached this stage of implementation. With 50 youth embarking on training in one of the fastest growing sectors in the travel/service industry with career paths to follow on land, at sea, on small or mega ships and yachts. The programme is well on its way to fulling its commitment to development, employment and sustainable livelihoods.

Climate Change and toxic chemicals blamed for increased pests

Lilly

Head of the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit, Ryan Anselm, is calling on farmers to practice smart agriculture to reduce the spread of pests.

These pests, he says, are becoming more prevalent and are travelling further due to climate change and the use of harmful chemicals.
Anselm reported that through a surveillance program, the unit discovered a number of pests which have invaded the agriculture sector in Dominica.
The Ministry of Agriculture through its Pest Management Programme has sought to educate farmers on the proper use of pesticides.
“Our assessment on the ground has shown that farmers are using toxic chemicals to control pests. We want to work with the farmers, train and educate them on the proper use of chemicals. These pesticides will cause serious problems down the road for farmers, plant, animal and human health. So we are encouraging farmers to consult with the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit about the use of chemicals,” Anselm explained.
He is urging farmers to practice smart agriculture to include proper sanitation, good cultural practices and the employment of necessary drainage methods.
“There are many natural and biological pesticides which can give the desired result so we are really discouraging farmers from using toxic chemicals which will affect the natural enemy and the environment. We are asking farmers to consult with the experts before using any chemicals. The chemicals are targeted to particular pests and their stages some chemicals will only be effective on the eggs or the larvae or the adult stage.”
CitrusHe stated that farmers often use chemicals that they think will be a quick fix to control their pest issues. He warns against this.
“There are soft-bodied insects and insects which will cause serious problems which pesticides cannot control like the millibugs and the scale insect. They have waxy [coverings] which protect them.
“These [toxic] pesticides have serious and negative effects…we’re very concerned about the human health aspect. So we also need to protect the natural enemies like the beneficial insects which can control the harmful ones. Toxic chemicals can kill the beneficial insects which control our pests,” Anselm says.
He is encouraging farmers to consult with the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit for the necessary recommendations to deal with pests.

Poland Establishes Consulate General In Barbados

Piotr Kaszuba
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean greets Poland's Ambassador to Barbados, Piotr Kaszuba at the reception at George Washington House. Looking on are the Ambassador's wife, Anna Kaszuba and Chief of Protocol, Phillip St. Hill. (A.Miller/BGIS)

The establishment of an Honorary Consulate General of Poland in Barbados has the potential for cooperation between the two countries in a number of areas, including tourism and security.

This view was expressed recently by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean, at a reception to recognise the establishment of the Consulate General and the appointment of Michael Armstrong as Honorary Consul. It was held at George Washington House, Bush Hill, The Garrison, St. Michael.
Senator McClean said she was encouraged by this potential, and was also interested in concluding a Double Taxation Agreement with Poland.
“Despite the several differences between our two countries, in size, economies and populations, I believe that we have together laid the foundation for nurturing a solid and productive relationship based on common interests and shared perspectives. Let us use every opportunity to continue to build on this foundation,” she added.
The Minister also highlighted the fact that the two countries, which established diplomatic relations on September 13, 1996, shared similar views on the serious threat posed by climate change.
Noting that this connection strengthened their relationship at a bilateral level, she said the Government of Barbados commended and supported the Polish Government in its view that climate change was a threat to security, and welcomed that country’s willingness to advocate on behalf of Small Island Developing States internationally.
Mr. Armstrong agreed with the Minister that the establishment of the Consulate General would strengthen ties between the two countries. He explained that he would seek to facilitate increased trade, as well as explore joint initiatives in tourism, education and culture.

Trade Minister: ‘Government’s most effective weapon in cutting red tape is TTBizLink’

TTBizLink

May 18, 2016: Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry made a clarion call to several Rotarians at the Rotary Club, Port-of-Spain West Luncheon Meeting on Wednesday 18 May, 2016 to understand their role in society, not only as members of the Rotary, but also as employers, stalwarts and leaders who have critical roles in ensuring our economic recovery.

As a past Rotarian of the Rotary Club of Maraval, Senator Gopee-Scoon stated that ‘now is a time for us to reflect on what we do, how we do it and who it affects. The Rotary Club, more than any other institutions, understands the link between economic depression and social strife. As theMinister of Trade and Industry, I understand the difficulties faced by the private sector and the need to create and implement policies and plans that create employment and foster confidence’.
In addressing the audience, the Trade and Industry Minister acknowledged that bureaucracy and costly procedures continue to inhibit investment and business activities in the country.  She said ‘the Ministry of Trade will lead the charge and prioritize specific improvements in strategic indicators, such as Dealing with Construction Permits, Trading across Borders and Getting Credit, so that Trinidad and Tobago becomes a place in which entrepreneurs and innovation can be facilitated and encouraged.  The Government’s most effective weapon in cutting red tape is TTBizLink, which provides a secure, user friendly IT platform that gives the user access to trade and business services online anytime, anywhere in the world once connected to the internet. TTBizLink now provides (from end-to-end) forty six (46) e-government services across twenty five (25) government departments in ten (10) ministries. As a priority – two areas will be tackled, i.e. the legal framework and business process re-engineering’.
Mr. Imshah Mohammed, President of the Rotary Club of Port of Spain West expressed his appreciation for the Minister’s presence and committed the support of fellow Rotarians in the improving the economic and social well-being of all citizens.

Growing flowers has the potential to become a lucrative industry

Roses

Basseterre, St. Kitts, May 19, 2016 (SKNIS): The niche market of growing flowers is near to non-existent in St. Kitts and Nevis and locals were encouraged by the Director of Agriculture, Melvin James, to tap into it on this week’s edition (May 18) of the radio- television talk show, Working for You.

Mr. James said that there are persons who grow flowers here but persons regularly import flowers for floral arrangements.
“Persons who arrange flowers have to go up the airport almost every day,” he said. “If there is an occasion where flowers are needed, they are imported. We hardly produce flowers. There are many things in agriculture that can be profitable and growing flowers is one of them.”
He said that in St. Kitts persons tend to do a little of everything meaning that “there are certain key things we should really select and run with.” Mr. James believes that the country would be able to grow from flowers.
“One of the things about flowers is that they are very light weight and therefore they are costly,” he said, noting that persons seek “light weight high value things, both in manufacturing and in agriculture because you have to consider the cost factors.
The Director outlined some key areas that would make the growing of flowers a lucrative industry.
“Even apart from exports, we have a relatively good industry here,” he said. “You can distribute roses on a daily basis to the ones you love and the ones you care for. There are a lot of workshops and seminars where they need decorations. Providing flowers to the hotels can play an integral role in building the hospitality industry as they uplift the atmosphere. There, flowers can be used on a daily basis.
Other areas he mentioned were providing flowers for funerals and uplifting offices.

MOH Held Successful Mosquito Awareness Week – 2016

Mosquito Week - Grenada

ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA, MAY 18, 2016, GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE (GIS): –A successful staging of a public-health education drive was held in Grenville, St. Andrew’s last week to mark Mosquito Awareness Week – 2016.
Residents of St. Andrew’s, business operators, students and passers-by participated in the activity and engaged public health officials on various matters that surrounds mosquito breeding, control and prevention.
During the one week observance health officials staged various activities which included focus groups presentations, public awareness activities, stakeholder engagements, exhibitions, entomological and fogging operations to name a few.

Local musicians learn record production and studio engineering

Musicians State College

A promise made by the Hon. Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit to advance the music industry is already being realized by the association of music professionals (AMP) of Dominica.

In July 2015, the Hon. Prime Minister made that commitment while announcing an allocation of $500,000 towards that industry.
Earlier this month, Hon Dr. Skerrit identified training as one of the key aspects of developing the industry which has the ability to contribute to the national economy.
From April 26th to 29th, a training workshop on the craft of song writing was held at the Dominica State College; facilitated by Swedish national and renowned international songwriter, Aleena Gibson.
President of the Association of Music Professionals is Mc Carthy Marie.
“As you know, the first way an artist gets known anywhere is through a recording. So we thought that after you have [learnt to write] the song, the next thing to be done is to learn how to record it properly. If it is badly recorded, it will kill a good song. If you have a scintillating recording, you have a hit which will make you plenty money.”
The training is being facilitated by recording engineer and record producer, Stuart Young of Canada.
“In Canada, we have a lot of Government of industry-funded programmes to help music grow and to develop songwriters.
“Studios used to be analogue and set up in a place; there used to be a real structure of training of people learning how to do recordings. Now, people are buying systems and doing recordings but they don’t have that core knowledge. so I think this is a great opportunity,” Young told the media on Wednesday, May 18th.
Adrien Francis describes his experience at the workshop.

Adrien Francis
Adrien Francis

“It’s really Dominica doesn’t really have much support behind the music industry. A lot of my peers and persons I know are very interested in using our talents and skills for income and still live our passions and dreams.
“I gravitated to this course and I think it’s a great idea to sensitize the individuals. What I have learned so far that I didn’t know is about the analogue and digital sides of studio production; that the analogue is really where it started. All of this gives more depth to music and it’s a great experience so far.”
He hopes this workshop can enhance his skills within the music industry.
“He added, “Honestly, I like learning things so being in this music field , I participated in the song writing course and learned about the structure of a song to market it.
“I really want to see what I can take from it to include in my craft. As they say, talent is one thing but skill is something that will take you further.
“Music is my thing,” he says.
The training programs will cost over $50,000.

PM Chairs Social Partnership Meeting

Freundel Stuart
Prime Minister Freundel Stuart (third right) chairing yesterday's meeting of the Social Partnership at Government Headquarters. (A.Miller/BGIS)

The strength of Barbados’ Social Partnership was reaffirmed yesterday, following discussions to determine the way forward under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Freundel Stuart at Government Headquarters.

Emerging from the meeting it was agreed by members of the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), representatives of the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) and of the private sector, that there would be a more results-oriented Social Partnership going forward.
“There needs to be less attention to form and more attention given to the function in the working of the Social Partnership,” Mr. Stuart stated.
He added that there was a general commitment by all parties to “roll up their sleeves” and come up with analyses on burning issues facing society in an effort to develop meaningful solutions.
All present encouraged the continued participation of the BWU in subcommittee meetings, and its input in the drafting of Protocol Seven of the Social Partnership.
Wednesday’s meeting was set to review the present structure of the Social Partnership and its administrative process as set out in the protocols, and to determine the way forward in the context of the drafting process for the new Protocol.
Those in attendance included Minister of Labour, Senator Dr. Esther Byer Suckoo; Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Senator Darcy Boyce; Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Patrick Todd; CTUSAB President, Cedric Murrell; CTUSAB General Secretary, Dennis DePeiza; BWU General Secretary, Toni Moore; former General Secretary, Sir Roy Trotman; and Chairman of the Barbados Private Sector Association, Alex McDonald.

1...197198199...269Page 198 of 269
Audio Theme