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NEMA Utilises Drones in Caribe Wave Exercise for the First Time

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Basseterre, St. Kitts, 27 March, 2024 (NEMA): For the first time ever, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) utilised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), also known as drones, to monitor and assess this year’s CARIBE WAVE Exercise.

CARIBE WAVE is a tsunami response exercise that takes place in the region annually on March 21. It can take several forms. This year, an evacuation drill was conducted in the Dieppe Bay to Saddlers area. The use of drones allowed officials to monitor the activity over a wider area and collect data that would help evaluators assess the performance of participants. CARIBE WAVE 24 Planning Coordinator, Oureika Lennon-Petty, spoke of the significance of having a bird’s-eye view of the exercise as it unfolded.

“We posted team members at two carefully selected locations and could see what was going on both in the village and at the assembly point with the drones. With several schools taking part in the exercise, we thought this would give us the advantage of being able to see if something went wrong and to get assistance where it needed to be quickly. It also allowed us to see if things were going as they should,” Mrs. Lennon-Petty disclosed.

Two drones were in operation on that day – a drone donated to NEMA by the humanitarian organization Global Support and Development (GSD) and one from the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC). They were operated by a member of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department and SKELEC, respectively, with representatives from NEMA, the St. Kitts and Nevis Customs and Excise Department, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, Her Majesty’s Prison, the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services, the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and the St. Kitts and Nevis Red Cross Society providing support. All drone operators and supporting team members recently successfully completed a week-long Drone Operation Training workshop which was hosted by NEMA. GSD sponsored the workshop and provided the trainers. All participants received a certificate noting their Level I proficiency.

Mrs. Lennon-Petty added that NEMA’s drone was equipped with a speaker over which the emergency message was aired to the residents below and both drones used cameras to take photographs and video footage of the activity.

“The drone that was donated to NEMA is valued at about US $10,000 and has several features we can use including a spotlight, speaker and camera. So, we are deeply grateful to GSD for, not only assisting us with the donation, but also for supporting the Drone Training Workshop because we were able use the individuals from that workshop to operate the drones during the CARIBE WAVE exercise,” she added.

Disaster management agencies like NEMA can also utilise drone technology to efficiently and accurately conduct assessments both pre- and post-disasters in order to improve the response. Drones can quickly capture aerial imagery and data, and provide comprehensive and evidence-based damage reports, giving a clear overview of the most affected areas and inaccessible regions.

Single Use Plastic Ban – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis Takes a Monumental Step towards a Plastic-Free Environment and Future

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, 26 March 2024 (The Department of Environment) – The Government of St Kitts and Nevis made a historic announcement to ban single-use plastics. The announcement was made during the sitting of National Assembly on Tuesday 26 March 2024 by the Minister of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Hon Dr Joyelle Clarke.

The implementation of the ban will be structured in three phases and will affect the importation, sale, and distribution of several items.

Single Use Plastic Ban – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis Takes a Monumental Step towards a Plastic-Free Environment and Future

Phase 1 involves the ban on importation of T-shirt plastic shopping bags as of 31 December 2024. This will be followed by a ban on the sale and distribution of these bags by 31 March 2025.

Phase 2 involves a ban on the importation of Styrofoam food containers and plastic straws effective as of 30 April 2025. While the sale and distribution of the same items will be banned as of 31 July 2025.

The final Phase involves banning the importation of single-use plastic cups, plastic plates, and plastic utensils as of 31 August 2025, followed by a ban on the sale and distribution of the same products as of 30 November 2025.

Minister of Environment, Climate Action & Constituency Empowerment, Hon Dr Joyelle Clarke stated that the ban on single-use plastics is a decisive step towards the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the natural environment and towards fostering a sustainable future for the twin-island nation.

The single-use plastic ban is part of the government’s commitment towards becoming a Sustainable Island State and which aligns with several of the United Nations’ Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

· SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-being

· SDG 6 – Clean Water & Sanitation

· SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities & Communities

· SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

· SDG 13- Climate Action

· SDG 14 – Life below Water

· SDG 15 – Life on Land

The ban will serve to regulate the importation, sale and distribution of single-use plastics until the pending Environmental Protection Bill 2024 shortly titled Restriction on Single-Use-Plastic Bill, is passed.

St Kitts and Nevis will now join over 100 countries including at least 12 in the Caribbean, like Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and the Turks and Caicos Islands, to now have a full or partial ban on single-use plastics.

National Productivity Council Bill 2024, Successfully Passes Through Federal Parliament

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 27, 2024 (SKNIS): The National Productivity Council Bill, 2024,  secured safe passage through the Federal Parliament on Tuesday, March 26, marking a pivotal moment in the establishment of the National Productivity Council and its related functions in St. Kitts and Nevis. 

The Council will be responsible for identifying and analysing factors affecting productivity and recommending strategies to address them, and for developing and implementing training programmes to enhance the skills and capabilities of the workforce, among other things.

Mover of the Bill, the Honourable Marsha Henderson, Minister responsible for Labour, emphasised that productivity  stands as a paramount issue, pivotal to propelling  the Federation forward. 

“Over the coming months, efforts will be made to improve productivity and expand economic capacity and fast-track the green energy transition in order to yield term benefits and energy security,” said Minister Henderson. 

She further mentioned that productivity and prosperity are tightly connected, in that when productivity increases in the private sector, it typically results in higher profits that benefit shareholders, employees, and consumers, while in the public sector, it leads to an increase in government tax revenue.

Minister Henderson further stated that increased productivity in the public sector typically results in cost savings for taxpayers and also enhances productivity in the private sector, while robust national productivity enhances a country’s overall competitiveness and appeal to local and foreign investors.

The minister also indicated that upon the Bill’s passage, the Ministry of Labour and Employment aims to implement the four-day workweek, highlighting it as a key advantage of establishing a National Productivity Council.

In her concluding remarks, the Honourable Minister stated that the Bill is a step in the right direction because of its multipurpose benefits not just to employers but employees as well. 

Successfully Passed Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, to Set New Standards in Health and Industry in St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS): Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Consumer Affairs, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, expressed strong support for the newly passed Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, during the sitting of Parliament, on March 26. This pivotal legislation aims to establish the Medical Laboratories Council and provide for the licensing, monitoring, and inspection of medical laboratory operations, amongst other related matters.

Dr. Douglas highlighted the significance of the Bill.

“This Bill to some extent is in keeping with the intention of the government to bring comfort to people who would, from time to time, need to use the medical laboratory as part of the ongoing confirmation of diseases that would have been detected and also to a large extent to pursue investigation of such diseases as far as possible,” said Senior Minister Dr. Douglas.

He added that the Bill is part of a broader vision to transform St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state, fostering not only service production in financial and hospitality sectors but also paving the way for advancements in the pharmaceutical industry.

“This is one of the areas that we have not tapped into yet. But I can give notice that it is our intention in particular… to make sure that St. Kitts and Nevis is open to attracting investment in the pharmaceutical industry and thus broadening the base that we would be utilising, not only in attracting investment dollars but in providing opportunities for employment for our young brilliant people who can be scientifically and medically minded,” Dr. Douglas stated.

The enactment of the Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, is a strategic move ensuring that the nation’s medical laboratories operate at the highest standards. It is anticipated that the establishment of a robust regulatory framework will attract investments in the pharmaceutical industry, leading to job creation and ensuring that products meet not only regional but international standards.

“The Bill is very important in terms of projecting St. Kitts and Nevis in the future, and of course, consolidating its efforts of attaining certain standards at the present day,” stated the trade minister, adding that the legislation marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards achieving excellence in healthcare and industrial development.

He said that with the successful passage of the Bill, St. Kitts and Nevis is set on a path to becoming a leading hub for medical and pharmaceutical innovation, ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens while fostering economic growth and development.

United States and Taiwan Collaborate on Medical Mission to Benefit St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS): Over the course of eight days, from March 18 to March 25, 2024, St. Kitts and Nevis experienced additional support in healthcare services, thanks to the United States Air Force Southern Command Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) mission.

This initiative featured medical professionals from the U.S. providing specialised medical services in areas such as general surgery, ophthalmology, dental care, and audiology to the Federation’s patients and medical personnel. The Republic of China (Taiwan) was a key partner of the mission, deploying medical professionals to support the U.S. team.

The LAMAT 2024 mission, described as a smaller yet unique operation in comparison to previous missions, like the hospital ship USNS Comfort’s visit in 2019, marked a significant milestone in the ongoing healthcare collaboration between St. Kitts and Nevis, the United States, and Taiwan. The joint effort enhanced the health outcomes for the local population by providing free specialist treatment to those in need.

During the closing ceremony held on March 26, 2024, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, lauded the mission’s success and highlighted the significance of the collaboration.  

Senior Minister Dr. Douglas

“This tripartite collaboration serves as a model for triangular cooperation in assisting states to achieve their health objectives,” said Senior Minister Dr. Douglas, who emphasised the operation’s alignment with the Government’s objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 17, which calls for partnerships for the goals.

Dr. Douglas also pointed out the economic implications of the mission, noting that a strong healthcare system is crucial for the nation’s economic health, particularly in sectors like tourism that are vital to the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“This LAMAT Mission has proven to be helpful not only for the health of our people but also the health of our nation,” he added.

The senior minister said that collaboration between the medical teams from the United States and Taiwan with local healthcare providers was seamless, providing a model for future healthcare missions and international cooperation. He expressed gratitude towards the governments of the United States of America and the Republic of China (Taiwan) for their contributions, which have set a high standard for healthcare provision in the Federation. 

The successful completion of the LAMAT 2024 mission is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing healthcare needs and improving the well-being of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Douglas said that the Federation looks forward to continuing its partnerships with both nations and furthering the advancements in healthcare and economic development for its citizens.

From March 17 to 25, the LAMAT 2024 mission, in collaboration with Taiwanese medical professionals and local health officials, provided comprehensive care to a total of 265 Accident and Emergency (A&E) patients. In addition, 251 individuals received primary care services, while 344 patients benefited from dental care. The mission also conducted 136 audiology assessments, which included screenings for eight newborns, and undertook 24 surgical procedures. 

Findings of an Internal Review of the Citizenship by Investment Programme Revealed an Over-dependence on CBI Revenue by the Former Administration

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS) – Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Immigration, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, delivered a statement in the National Assembly on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, that revealed some startling and troubling facts regarding the management of the country’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme under the former administration, and outlined the significant steps by his administration to strengthen the CBI and rebuild trust and confidence in the programme amongst international partners.

Chief among the concerning revelations that came after an internal review of the Citizenship by Investment Programme was the issue of over-reliance on the programme by the previous administration. This, Dr. Drew said, led to unscrupulous practices and underselling that ultimately compromised the standing and reputation of the country’s CBI programme.

“In the last five years of the previous administration, CBI generated fifty (50) percent of the overall cash revenue for the Federal Government. In the last two years of the previous administration, the CBI generated fifty-seven (57) percent of the overall cash revenue for the Federal Government. This is the truest economic example of putting all of one’s eggs in one basket,” Dr. Drew said.

Such dependence on the economic citizenship programme was identified as a cause for concern by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its report on the 2022 performance of the Federation’s economy.

“The IMF in their report examining the 2022 performance of our economy said ‘the growing dependence on volatile and uncertain CBI revenue is a major source of vulnerability. Directors called for reducing heavy dependence on unpredictable CBI revenue through improved structural fiscal policies, enhanced accountability and use for investments in reliance and building buffers,” the prime minister said, noting that the IMF report underpinned the concerns shared by his administration.

In addressing this problem, Prime Minister Dr. Drew said one of the first priorities upon assuming office was expanding and diversifying the Federation’s economy.  

“In 2022, CBI revenue reached an unsustainable level of sixty (60) percent of total Federal Government revenue. This unsustainable status quo cannot continue and our administration has been focused on diversifying our economy. That is why economic diversification is one of the seven pillars of our sustainable island state agenda Madame Speaker,” Dr. Drew said.

He added, “The economy that we envisioned will see major inflows from tourism, major inflows from construction, major inflows from water and energy infrastructure, major inflows from the creative economy, agriculture, offshore education, major inflows from manufacturing and more. No longer can we continue to be so reliant on a single leg and that single leg is the CBI programme.”

Mindful of its mandate to protect the interest of the twin-island Federation, the government acted swiftly and decisively to strengthen the programme with the support of its regional and international partners.

“We bolstered our legislative and administrative frameworks…to curtail any underselling, we reinstated the primacy of law within our CBI Programme and we terminated unscrupulous advertising practices. In all of this, we made sure that we were not going to compromise the security of St. Kitts and Nevis or any other country, especially our international partners,” Dr. Drew stated.

The prime minister’s statement came on the same day the Citizenship by Investment Unit Bill, 2024, was introduced and had its first reading in the National Assembly. This bill provides for the establishment of a Citizenship by Investment Unit for Saint Christopher and Nevis as a body corporate, having perpetual succession and a common seal and may sue and be sued in its corporate name.

Federal Cabinet Approves Three-phased Ban on Single-use Plastic Items in St. Kitts and Nevis

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Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS): In a landmark move towards preserving the environment and advancing sustainability, the Federal Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis has announced the implementation of a phased ban on single-use plastics. The announcement, made in the National Assembly on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, by Senator the Honourable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment, marks a pivotal step in the nation’s environmental policy.

The ban will be rolled out in three stages, targeting the importation, sale, and distribution of specific single-use plastic products. The initial phase, starting December 31, 2024, will see the ban on importing T-shirt plastic shopping bags, followed by a prohibition on their sale and distribution by March 31, 2025. The second phase will commence with a ban on importing Styrofoam food containers and plastic straws by April 30, 2025, and their sale and distribution by July 31, 2025. In its final phase, the ban will extend to the importation of single-use plastic cups, plates, and utensils by August 31, 2025, with these items no longer being sold or distributed by November 30, 2025.

The move is in line with similar actions taken by several countries in the Caribbean including Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Eustatius, Saint. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as Trinidad and Tobago. All twelve countries have placed a ban on the use and import of single-use plastics and Styrofoam.

Reflecting on the landmark decision made by the Federal Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Clarke passionately shared the significance of this moment for the country’s environmental future.

“Tuesday, March 26, 2024, marks a significant milestone for environmental protection for St. Kitts and Nevis. This action is a testament to our unwavering commitment to protect our natural environment and foster a sustainable future for our nation,” said Dr. Clarke. 

Senator Dr. Clarke said that St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to environmental stewardship and transitioning to a sustainable island state requires the input, collaboration, partnership and policy adjustment of every ministry and sector. 

“I am compelled to remind every Kittitian and Nevisian that every small action collectively, creates major movements in recycling, upcycling and limiting the use of plastics,” said Dr. Clarke. “The small changes today will lead to incremental improvements in human and environmental health.” 

The initiative falls in line with several United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health & Well-being, Clean Water & Sanitation, Sustainable Cities & Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life below Water, and Life on Land.

With this move, St. Kitts and Nevis joins a growing list of over 100 countries in implementing a full or partial ban on single-use plastics. According to Senator Clarke, this policy is a precursor to the anticipated Environmental Protection Bill 2024, formally known as the Restriction on Single-Use-Plastic Bill, further solidifying the Federation’s environmental conservation efforts.

4th Generation Border Management System Now Operational at the R.L.B. International Airport

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, March 25, 2024 (SKNIS) – The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis took a huge step towards modernising and enhancing the services at the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport today, March 25, 2024, by switching to a 4th generation Border Management System that features automated passport control kiosks. This move ensures that St. Kitts and Nevis remains at the forefront of technological advancements that promote efficiency.

The new system integrates the online entry application (KNA travel form), facilitates E-Visa processing payment, and features the Advanced Passenger Information (API) Dashboard among other systems.

Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew signed the agreement for the kiosk machines. Dr. Drew was also one of the first persons to utilise one of the kiosks. He described the system as efficient and user-friendly, and noted that its introduction is in keeping with the government’s build-out of its sustainable island state agenda.

“In establishing a sustainable island state, technological advancement has to be a part of it, and this is the next step in that direction, and so I can say to our people here in St. Kitts and Nevis that we are becoming more modernised,” Prime Minister Drew said.

Minister of Tourism, Honourable Marsha Henderson, who was also on hand to witness the operationalisation of the 4th generation Border Management System, commended the collaborative approach taken by the relevant ministries and agencies that led to its successful implementation.

She stated that the implementation of this system aligns with one of the key goals of the Ministry of Tourism, which is to improve the overall experience for visitors. Minister Henderson highlighted that the launch serves as a clear testimony of the ministry’s active efforts in this direction. 

“We continue our efforts in tourism to make sure that we deliver a sterling product and this time partnering with national security and immigration, we are definitely on the right track,” Minister Henderson said.

By using the automated passport control kiosks, arriving passengers will avoid long queues and lengthy manual passport checks by an immigration officer. Built-in components such as cameras and pre-approved checks will maintain the integrity of the secure entry protocols into the Federation.

The system will initially cater to returning nationals and persons bearing passports from member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Passport holders from the member states of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States will be included at the end of March.

Recycling Revolution: St. Kitts and Nevis Embrace Environmental Stewardship

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By: Spokesman Newsroom

Basseterre, St. Kitts – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis is witnessing a remarkable transformation in environmental conservation, with recycling practices becoming ingrained in every community’s daily routines. This significant cultural shift is largely attributed to the successful collaboration between the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund and the local St. Kitts Solid Waste Management Recycling Project.

Initiated on June 20, 2022, this recycling project has been pivotal in promoting the Sustainable Island State Agenda’s vision for a No-Plastic Future. It encourages the Federation’s citizens to conscientiously recycle plastic bottles, caps, and aluminum cans, contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment.

The project’s impact is evident in the steadily increasing volume of recyclables collected at designated drop-off stations across the island. These stations, set up weekly in various urban and rural locations, have seen a surge in usage, reflecting the community’s growing commitment to recycling. The data speaks volumes: from 38,749 lbs of recycled plastic collected in 2022, the figure almost doubled to 73,492 lbs in 2023. This remarkable increase underscores the Federation’s dedication to combating plastic pollution and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

The surge in recycling awareness and practices didn’t happen overnight. It resulted from concerted efforts by project partners and stakeholders who embarked on vigorous awareness campaigns. These initiatives included community and school visits, stakeholder engagements, and the distribution of educational materials both physically and through social media platforms, all aimed at instilling good recycling habits among the populace.

Supporting these grassroots efforts, the introduction of key policies such as the National Conservation and Environmental Management Bill and the imminent ban on single-use plastics, set to be authorized in 2024, are reinforcing the Federation’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation.

As St. Kitts and Nevis continues to lead by example in the Caribbean, the emphasis on recycling and sustainable practices is paving the way for a healthier, cleaner future. The success of the recycling movement in the Federation is a testament to the collective will of its citizens and their commitment to preserving, conserving, and protecting their environment.

As we celebrate World Recycling Day on March 18, 2024, it’s crucial to recognize the #RecyclingHeroes not only within our Federation but also across the region and the globe. Their relentless efforts and dedication are crucial in securing an eco-friendly and sustainable future for all.

Ross University Continues Its Investment in the Educational Development of the Nation’s Youth, as Ten More Students Were Awarded Scholarships

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BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, March 21, 2024 (SKNIS) – The partnership between the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) and the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, continues to bear fruit, as another batch of deserving students were granted assistance through the institution’s scholarship awards programme.

During a ceremony held at the RUSVM Campus on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, ten (10) students were awarded scholarships to pursue studies at the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) and the Nevis Sixth Form College. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Her Excellency the Governor-General, Dame Marcella Liburd.

The Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Scholarships Awards Programme was established to assist academically deserving students, who face financial challenges  that would have otherwise hindered their ability  to enrol at  the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College or the Nevis Sixth Form College.

However, Dean of the RUSVM Dr. Sean Callanan, said scholarship recipients are chosen for more than just their financial needs.

 “When I read the documentation it’s very clear that you are not only developing yourselves, but you are also developing many of your colleagues, and you’ve also in your relatively short lives, given so much to the community and I am so glad that that has been recognized in how we award these particular scholarships,” he said.  

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, said he was proud to be part of a ceremony that celebrated the dedication and excellent achievements of students.

“These scholarships are not just a recognition of your past accomplishments but also a testament to your potential,” Deputy Prime Minister Hanley said. “This scholarship is an investment in your future and a vote of confidence in your ability to bring about positive change in the world. Therefore, you should deem yourselves privileged to have been chosen for these scholarships.”

Dr. Hanley extended profound gratitude to the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine for its continued investment in the educational advancement of the nation’s youth. He further noted that the collaboration between Ross University and the Ministry of Education embodies the ministry’s guiding theme of fostering holistic partnerships for advancing education.

“Without a doubt, it is evident that Ross is a true partner who is committed to the growth and development of our people, especially our youth. This 40-year partnership has benefitted countless citizens across our socio-economic landscape — eighty-three (83) of which were scholarship recipients,” Honourable Dr. Hanley said.

The Ross University scholarship programme provides coverage for books, fees, and includes an allowance for uniforms and transportation. It  supports students across a diverse spectrum of disciplines, including business,  natural sciences, hospitality, automotive engineering, accounting, electrical and electronics engineering, teacher education, law and sociology.