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Member Benefits Include
Collective Representation
Legal Representation
Grievance Resolution
Professional Development
Health and Safety Advocacy
Social and Networking Events
Governmental Advocacy
Job Security and Seniority Advocacy
Information and Resources
Open Door Policy
Workers Representation on a National Scale
Collective Bargaining Representation
The union negotiates collective bargaining agreements on behalf of its members to ensure fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. Shop stewards act as liaisons between the workers and the union leadership.
Legal Representation
Members have access to legal assistance for workplace-related issues, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, and safety violations.
Grievance Resolution
The SKNT&LU supports members in resolving workplace grievances, advocating for fair treatment and due process.
Professional Development
The union provides opportunities for members to enhance their skills and career prospects through various educational programs.
Health and Safety Advocacy
A key focus is on promoting safer work environments and compliance with health and safety standards.
Social and Networking Events
Members can participate in events that foster community and provide networking opportunities.
Governmental Advocacy
The union lobbies for policies and legislation that protect and advance workers' rights and interests.
Job Security and Seniority Advocacy
Efforts are made to ensure fair practices regarding layoffs, promotions, and other job changes, often prioritizing seniority and performance.
Information and Resources
The union keeps members informed about labor rights, industry developments, and union activities through various communication channels.
Open Door Policy
Members have direct access to union representatives for guidance and support, with non-members also encouraged to engage with the union.
Workers Representation on a National Scale
The SKNT&LU represents workers at the national level on various committees, influencing policies and regulations affecting labor and employment.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, [November 4th, 2024: PMO] – During the recent Budget 2025 National Forum, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew emphasized the vital need for a thorough examination of import data to inform and shape future economic policies in St. Kitts and Nevis. This call to action comes as the government seeks to strengthen its economic framework and promote sustainable growth in the face of ongoing global challenges.
Prime Minister Drew, who at the time was responding to concerns expressed by a participant at the National Forum, said, “I encourage anyone with insights or data on import duties and their impacts on our economy to share that information with us. He continued, ”Understanding the dynamics of our imports is crucial for shaping our trade policies and ensuring economic growth.”
This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance economic resilience by reducing dependence on imported goods and fostering local production.
The Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of adopting a data-driven approach to evaluate how import duties affect local markets, consumer behavior, and the overall economy. The government plans to engage a wide array of stakeholders, including businesses, trade associations, and economic analysts, to gather relevant data that will guide policy reforms and streamline the import process. This collaboration is intended to create a more robust framework for economic decision-making, ensuring that policies are informed by comprehensive and accurate data.
“The review will enable us to make informed decisions that not only boost our revenue but also promote local production and reduce our reliance on imported goods,” Prime Minister Drew added. By closely examining import patterns and trends, the government aims to identify opportunities for encouraging domestic industries, which could lead to job creation and enhanced economic stability.
As part of this initiative, the government is also exploring potential partnerships with regional and international organizations to access best practices and benchmark data. Such collaborations could provide valuable insights into successful trade policies implemented in other nations, which could be adapted to suit the unique context of St. Kitts and Nevis.
As the government prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, it remains committed to leveraging data to foster a more sustainable and resilient economy. The anticipated outcome of this comprehensive review will not only enhance the efficiency of the import process but will also contribute to the Federation’s overall economic growth, aligning with the government’s long-term vision of establishing St. Kitts and Nevis as a competitive player in the global marketplace.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, [November 4th, 2024: PMO] – The government of St. Kitts and Nevis is poised to implement groundbreaking technology and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions aimed at revolutionizing traffic management across the Federation. This ambitious initiative was highlighted by Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew during the recent Budget 2025 National Forum, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety and improving the overall quality of life for citizens.
“Our aim is to enhance road safety and traffic flow through innovative technology. …The integration of AI will enable us to monitor traffic patterns in real-time, thereby improving response times and reducing congestion,” Prime Minister Drew explained.
As part of this forward-thinking initiative, the government is currently evaluating proposals that will incorporate AI-driven traffic monitoring systems. These systems will analyze traffic data to optimize signal timings, manage congestion, and provide real-time updates to drivers through digital signage and mobile applications.
This approach aligns with global trends in urban traffic management, where cities are increasingly leveraging technology to address congestion and enhance public safety. In cities around the world, AI has been utilized to create smarter traffic systems that can adapt to changing conditions and improve the flow of vehicles.
“This is about creating smarter, safer cities for our citizens. By leveraging technology, we can make informed decisions that improve our transportation infrastructure,” Prime Minister Drew added.
The government’s commitment to innovative traffic solutions reflects a broader vision for sustainable urban development in St. Kitts and Nevis. As part of the Sustainable Island State Agenda, these initiatives are designed to enhance the resilience of infrastructure and promote environmentally friendly practices.
Prime Minister Drew further noted that community engagement will be an essential component of this initiative, encouraging residents to provide feedback on traffic conditions and suggest improvements. “Public input is invaluable as we move forward with these plans. We want to ensure that our solutions meet the needs of our communities,” he said.
As St. Kitts and Nevis embraces these technological advancements, the government remains dedicated to building a safer, more efficient transportation system. By investing in innovative traffic solutions, the Federation aims to enhance the quality of life for all its residents while positioning itself as a leader in smart city initiatives in the Caribbean.
(Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis) – The Ministry of National Security is pleased to announce the roll-out of new and improved national passports as part of the Federation’s 4th Generation Border Management System upgrade. These new passports are machine-readable and incorporate high-technology features designed to enhance security and streamline border management processes.
As part of this significant upgrade, there will be a new passport application form. Accordingly, the cut-off point for old applications will be Tuesday, 05 November 2024. No new applications for passports will be processed between Tuesday 05 November 2024 to Friday, 08 November 2024, except in cases of emergency.
The Ministry acknowledges that this transition period may cause temporary inconvenience, but we are confident that the new system will greatly benefit our citizens by providing more secure and efficient travel documentation. We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we implement these necessary improvements.
Thank you for your continued trust and support as we work to make the travel experience of our citizens safer and more convenient.
The calypso spirit is alive and thriving as we prepare to celebrate one of the most cherished traditions of Sugar Mas. Over 50 registered calypsonians are set to take the spotlight, bringing their voices, lyrics, and passion to the vibrant calypso tents. This season kicks off at the Proud Sounds Calypso Tent on Sunday 10th November at Sprat Net, where the first soulful notes of calypso will echo across St. Kitts and Nevis.
This year’s Calypso Eliminations, scheduled for November 29th and 30th, will be an electric display of talent and tenacity, as competitors battle for a coveted spot in the Semi-Finals. From these fierce eliminations, 16 exceptional calypsonians will advance to the Semi-Finals on December 12th, and from there, the best of the best will rise to compete in the Grand Finals on December 29th.
In the Finals, seven of the most compelling voices in calypso will attempt to dethrone the reigning monarch, Queen Independent, whose unforgettable performances and razor-sharp lyrics have set a high standard for this year’s hopefuls. Each calypsonian brings their own unique flavour and storytelling prowess, promising an explosive celebration of the art form that continues to define and unite our nation.
The SKNNCC invites everyone to join us in celebrating the rich cultural legacy of calypso — a powerful blend of history, storytelling, and music that captures the essence of St. Kitts and Nevis. This Sugar Mas season, be part of the magic as we witness the rhythm, the rivalry, and the sheer artistry that makes our carnival extraordinary.
Basseterre, St. Kitts – October 31, 2024 – The St. Kitts Tourism Authority is thrilled to announce that Cape Air, a leading regional airline, will commence flights to St. Kitts on December 7, 2024. This exciting new service will strengthen the connections between St. Kitts, Nevis, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, enhancing travel flexibility and convenience for both locals and visitors. Flights will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering timely options for inter-island travel.
The schedule is as follows:
• Nevis to St. Kitts (NEV-SKB): Departs at 8:30, arrives at 8:40
• St. Kitts to Nevis (SKB-NEV): Departs at 18:35, arrives at 18:45
• St. Kitts to St. Thomas (SKB-STT): Departs at 9:40, arrives at 10:45
• St. Thomas to St. Kitts (STT-SKB): Departs at 16:30, arrives at 17:35
The Honorable Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism for St. Kitts, expressed her enthusiasm for this new service, noting its importance in boosting regional tourism and fostering greater economic and cultural ties across the islands.
“We are delighted to welcome Cape Air to St. Kitts as they expand their network to include these key destinations. This new service will greatly enhance inter-island connectivity, making travel more accessible for our residents and tourists alike,” stated Minister Henderson. “As we continue to focus on strategic initiatives that support our tourism industry, Cape Air’s arrival is a positive step in making St. Kitts a more attractive destination in the region. We look forward to a fruitful partnership that will further highlight the beauty and vibrancy of our islands.”
Cape Air’s flights are now available for booking through their website and ticketing agents, providing passengers with greater flexibility to explore the Eastern Caribbean.
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, October 25, 2024 (MMS-SKN) — In a gesture that has been hailed by Prime Minister and Minister of Health the Hon Terrance Drew and the Minister of Sports the Hon Samal Duggins, a football league featuring men over 40 years was launched on Sunday evening October 20, at the Warner Park Football Stadium in Basseterre.
The Guinness Ambassadors Football Cup 40 and Over League, which is the brainchild of Ambassadors His Excellency Kenneth Douglas (who is also the Sports Ambassador), and His Excellency Leon Natta-Nelson, has eight teams whose origins roughly match with the existing constituencies on St. Kitts.
Prime Minister the Hon Dr Terrance Drew (centre) with Constituent Ms Terresita Butler (right), are joined by Ambassador His Excellency Kenneth Douglas, as they watched the second game on Sunday at the Warner Park Football Stadium. Prime Minister the Hon Dr Terrance Drew, with foot on the ball, as he declared the tournament open. Watching are L-R: Ambassador Natta-Nelson, (partly hidden) Deputy PM Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley, Ambassador Douglas, and the Hon Samal Duggins. Top picture: PM Drew (in white shorts), accompanied by Ambassador His Excellency Kenneth Douglas, greets players of the first game between General Ballers and Old School. Bottom left: PM Drew watches the first game. Bottom left: Scene from the second game. Action on Thursday October 24: Top pictures show encounters between Sandy Point and Molineux, while bottom pictures show encounters between Monkey Hill and Capisterre.
“A tournament like this ensures that we have social cohesion and togetherness among our population, especially our men,” said Prime Minister Drew before he kicked the first ball to declare the tournament open.
Teams taking part in the Guinness Ambassadors Football Cup 40 and Over League are Legacy Ballers, CP Legends, Generation Ballers, Old School, Sandy Point, Capisterre, Molineux, and Monkey Hill.
“An activity like this says that the men of St. Kitts and Nevis believe in living together in harmony – an activity like this says that we are for healthy living,” said the Prime Minister who is also a medical practitioner. “A lot of our men suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes, and strokes and heart attacks, and all sorts of kidney ailments after forty, and many of whom would have been excellent sportsmen.”
Dr Drew, who turned out in a player’s uniform, lamented that because there are hardly any organised activities for men to participate in after forty, they become sedentary which leads to their gaining weight, and their pressure and blood sugar going up, and all sorts of health issues.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Ambassadors His Excellency Leon Natta-Nelson and His Excellency Kenneth Douglas, who came up with the idea of the Over-40 football league for men, are themselves not potential sportspeople, but rather real sportsmen who would have represented St. Kitts in cricket, football and basketball.
He thanked the sponsors of the tournament, who according to Ambassador Douglas, include Guinness through Carib Breweries, Office of the Prime Minister, Ram’s Supermarkets, and the Department of Sports. He also thanked the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association for providing referees and lines-persons, and all the players who offered to take part in the tournament.
In attendance included the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Dr Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Sports, et al. the Hon Samal Duggins, Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, the Hon Garth Wilkin (who also played), Minister of Sustainable Development, et al. the Hon Joyelle Clarke, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr Curtis Martin.
While delivering remarks at the League’s opening ceremony, Minister of Sports the Hon Samal Duggins also recognised the importance of actively engaging men over 40 through sports, stressing that movement and exercise and physical activity are important for them at any age.
“This is a showcase of the proud moment of St. Kitts and Nevis,” said the Hon Duggins. “We ensure that there is room for all, no matter your age, no matter the stage – we have something for everyone, and I want to thank the Ambassadors for the thoughtful thought and making sure that we are going to have something for our citizens who may not be as agile as they once were.”
He pointed out that a number of persons taking part in the league are veterans who would have spent many years in the sport, and playing at the highest level. And while lamenting that some of them would have spent some years out of the sports, he said he was excited to see them in action from that Sunday evening and onwards.
Some of the veteran players include, but not limited to, Elvis ‘Pepe’ Isaac who would have performed duties as the Captain of the St. Kitts team in the period 1980/81, George ‘Yellow Man’ Isaac, Dwight Allers, and Jevon Francis.
According to the Tournament’s rules, all players must be 40 years or older by December 31, 2024. Each match consists of two 30-minute halves, and teams must wear matching uniforms with numbers on the back.
Group stage of the tournament will have teams playing in a round-robin format, with each team playing the other twice, where a win will earn a team three points, draw one point and nil for a loss. The top four teams from each group will advance to the Final Four knockout stage. According to the current schedule, finals will be played on Sunday December 15 at 8:00 p.m.
In the first game on Sunday evening October 20, Old School, which was captained by T’Sean Flemming, beat Generation Ballers, which was captained by Calvin Hicks assisted by Livingston Huggins, 2-0. The goals were scored by Conroy Ottley, and Sheldon Burnham.
In the second game, CP Legends beat Legacy Ballers which was captained by Jevon Francis, 3-1. Goal scorers were Steven Clarke, Calvin Williams, and Shervin Allen for CP Legends, while the sole goal for Legacy Ballers was scored by Dwight Allers. Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Hon Garth Wilkin played for the Legacy Ballers of Newtown.
On Thursday evening October 24, the two ambassadors (H.E. Natta-Nelson and H.E. Douglas) faced each other in the first game where in a tightly contested game Molineux beat Sandy Point 3-2.
Molineux, which was captained by Elroy Richard, drew the first blood when in the early minutes of the game Tyrone Jefferson scored through a penalty kick, but Sandy Point who were captained by Ambassador Kenneth Douglas made an equaliser through Kishon Liburd. The other goals were scored in the second half, with Ashton Liburd, and Jamo Liburd scoring for Molineux, and Wayne Phillip scoring for Sandy Point.
The second game saw Capisterre, which was captained by Shavon Douglas, beat Monkey Hill, which was captained by Delroy Carey, 2-0. The goals, one in each half, were both scored by former Kittitian national player, George ‘Yellow Man’ Isaac.
The Guinness Ambassadors Football Cup 40 and Over League continues on Tuesday October 29 at 7:00 p.m. where two winners from the first game, Capisterre and Old School will come up against each other in the first game, while two losers in the first game, Legacy Ballers and Generation Ballers will face each other in the second game at 8:00 p.m.
Commissioner Yew-Woei Chou, Criminal Investigation Bureau, Ministry of the Interior, Republic of China (Taiwan)
Timely intelligence sharing is key to combating transnational crime
Taiwan enjoys strong law enforcement capabilities and cooperates with friendly partners in criminal investigations. Being able to exchange information in real-time is crucial to combating transnational crime. However, due to its exclusion from INTERPOL, Taiwan can only access critical intelligence indirectly. By the time that information is received, it is often outdated, creating a challenging situation that allows transnational crime to thrive and exacerbates the harm caused.
INTERPOL espouses international cooperation in law enforcement
According to Article 2 of the Constitution of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), one of the organization’s aims is to ensure and promote the widest possible mutual assistance between all criminal police authorities. In recent years, transnational crime has evolved, exacerbated by the rapid advancement of information and communications technology. Criminal activities are increasingly of a cross-border, organized, and anonymous nature, with financial transactions taking place online. This puts all countries and peoples at risk. To combat transnational crime, nations must work together, engage in mutual assistance, and share information -notions fully commensurate with the INTERPOL Constitution.
Strengthening cross-border cooperation, enhancing law enforcement capabilities, and building capacity to safeguard justice have become key goals of the international community. In addressing new types of transnational crime, INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi stated on September 7 during International Police Cooperation Day that “by openly sharing intelligence, strategies, and resources, we are better equipped to confront global threats like transnational crime, human trafficking, and terrorism.” Although specific criminal cases may not impact the entire world, the analysis of crime trends can help identify investigation opportunities. Countries should learn from one another, cooperate, share intelligence, and work together to find solutions.
This year’s theme for international police cooperation is “police integrity, accountability, and oversight,” which are values crucial to law enforcement and global security. These values form the foundation of public trust; are essential to preventing crime, protecting the vulnerable, and upholding justice; and play a vital role in international police cooperation. Taiwan, strategically positioned and committed to strengthening international ties, is eager to share information and work with other countries to build a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all.
Taiwan’s public safety is recognized globally
Taiwan operates its own policing and justice, financial and trading, aviation and maritime transport, and border control systems. Having garnered extensive experience in combating transnational crime such as telecommunication fraud, drug trafficking, cyberattacks, organized crime, and terrorism, Taiwan’s law enforcement authorities have demonstrated their commitment to promoting peace and helping vulnerable people. Its well-trained officers have also made Taiwan a significant partner to the international community, which has highly recognized Taiwan’s crime-fighting achievements. Combating transnational crime is a critical mission of Taiwan. As global security is interconnected, cooperation between Taiwan and INTERPOL would help make the world a safer place.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Taiwan’s 2024 Business Climate Survey reported that the high degree of personal safety was the most attractive aspect of life and work in Taiwan to foreign business professionals. Indeed, this has been cited as the biggest attraction for eight consecutive years. Former Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Sandra Oudkirk also said that “Taiwan is the safest place I’ve ever lived.” According to the Numbeo safety index, Taiwan ranks as the fourth-safest country in the world, with a crime rate fourth-lowest among 146 countries, following only Andorra, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Moreover, in 2023, the Expat Insider annual survey published by InterNations ranked Taiwan the fifth most livable country – second for quality of life, eighth for safety, and first for quality of healthcare.
Without Taiwan, the international security network is incomplete
With Taiwanese passports providing visa-free entry to more than 160 countries and areas around the world, there have been numerous cases of such passports being illegally traded by crime syndicates in other countries. Criminal elements in a number of countries have fraudulently used Taiwanese passports to engage in illegal activities, thereby threatening international security and seriously disrupting the global order. However, currently, Taiwan can neither obtain the latest information on crimes nor share intelligence on suspects of major crimes such as fraud and drug trafficking in a timely fashion. Likewise, Taiwan is unable to provide other countries with crucial information regarding emerging criminal methods, its experiences in investigating related crimes, and details on forged passports. Taiwan’s absence hampers efforts to prevent and stop criminal activities at their source.
Taiwan is willing and able to engage in joint law enforcement efforts
In 2017, for example, after Australian national Lisa Lines allegedly convinced a lover to attack her ex-husband with an ax, seriously injuring and paralyzing him, she fled to Taiwan to hide and work. In September 2022, INTERPOL issued a red notice for Lines and a yellow notice for her young children. However, Taiwan was not notified and remained unaware of the case until October 2023, when Australia contacted Taiwan to request assistance with the matter. Subsequently, Taiwan conducted an investigation and alerted both Australia and Palau, leading to the arrest of Lines when she travelled to Palau with her children. She was then extradited to Australia to face trial, and her children were escorted back to Australia.
In 2024, the INTERPOL Stop Internet Piracy (I-SOP) initiative sought to address copyright violations and piracy crimes, issuing a report entitled Paris 2024 Olympic Games: Awareness for Potential Digital Piracy Services. The report highlighted a Taiwanese police investigation into the illegal broadcasting of Olympic events through the Unblock Tech TV box (also known as the Anbo box). INTERPOL later asked Taiwan to share its related experiences and suggest potential measures for combating set-top box and other digital piracy services in the future so as to better protect intellectual property rights.
Taiwan urges countries to support its participation in INTERPOL and make the global security network more comprehensive
On June 27, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute published an article by Dr John Coyne titled “Taiwan’s exclusion from INTERPOL is the world’s loss.” The article highlighted Taiwan’s strong law enforcement capabilities and important role in combating transnational crime, particularly human trafficking. Despite widespread international support, Taiwan remains unable to access INTERPOL’s intelligence databases and cooperation systems, limiting the effectiveness of cross-border crime investigations. Granting Taiwan observer status in INTERPOL would further strengthen global security, uphold justice, and minimize the negative effects of political factors on efforts to fight crime worldwide.
We urge all countries to support Taiwan’s participation as an observer at INTERPOL’s annual assembly, enabling Taiwan’s law enforcement agencies to engage with those of member states, attend training sessions, and share expertise. Taiwan remains committed to promoting security, reducing harm to people and property, and working tirelessly with the international community to combat transnational crime.
The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades & Labour Union (SKNT&LU)-owner of this publication- recently held its 85th Annual Conference under the theme, ‘Empowering Workers: Strategies for Success in 2025 and Beyond.’
That gathering held on Sunday 27th October 2024 has marked the beginning of a pivotal new term for the Union, guided by a visionary executive body and energized by the election of three new young members ready to complement the efforts and vision of the long-standing workers’ representative organisation.
The Union’s call for unity and collective engagement is timely. In an evolving global economy, where challenges to workers’ rights are as dynamic as they are unprecedented, the need for a strong, proactive, and well-represented workforce cannot be overstated. The Union has taken a bold stance, urging not only its current members but also new workers to join the ranks to safeguard their rights, secure representation, and benefit from educational opportunities that are crucial in this fast-changing labour landscape.
The new executive body, for the new 2024-2025 term, renews its commitment to a clear and purposeful mandate. However, the Union’s effectiveness lies in a collaborative partnership with the workers it serves. Membership alone will not guarantee the fulfillment of the Union’s mission; it requires a unified and active base of workers who are willing to engage, advocate, and, most importantly, trust in the organization that represents them.
A highlight of this year’s conference was the significant focus on youth engagement. The election of the three young members to the executive body serves as an inspiring testament to the Union’s commitment to cultivating leadership from within. Such was accompanied by a call to action directed at the younger generation of workers- by the executive committee’s youngest member-acknowledging that the future of labour advocacy lies in the hands of those who will carry it forward.
As the new term commences, the Union has set its sights on realizing a future where every worker is both empowered and protected. This conference was a milestone, signaling a commitment to addressing the unique needs and challenges of our time. But to make this vision a reality, the collective effort of the entire workforce is essential. Workers must actively engage with the Union, lending their voices and perspectives to help shape policies that will ultimately benefit everyone.
In this spirit, we call on all workers to heed the Union’s invitation to join in this mission. By aligning under the Union’s banner, workers strengthen their ability to advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for growth and advancement. The Union is prepared to support, educate, and defend its members as it has done for the past decades-and with renewed energy, it is poised to empower a new generation of workers for success in 2025 and beyond.
Together, we can build a future where every worker feels empowered, supported, and valued.
Join us in this journey, and together let us shape a brighter tomorrow.
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS (Thursday 31st October 2024)-Following public criticism of recent design choices at the lookout point at Timothy Hill located at the South East Peninsula, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Tivanna Wharton, has addressed such concerns.
At the Ministry’s press conference held on Thursday 31st October 2024, Wharton acknowledged the public’s dissatisfaction noting that the results did not fully align with the intended vision for the project.
“Unfortunately, we accept that the results did not fully align with our collective vision, and we understand the concerns raised by you, our community,” Wharton stated.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Tivanna Wharton speaking at the Ministry’s press conference held on Thursday 31st October 2024 (Credit:Facebook/KittitianHeartbeat)
Notably, a lookout platform dubbed a “bedframe” by some people as well as the pastel-painted rocks- shades of pink, yellow and green- quickly became the subject of online criticism. Photos were circulated widely on social media platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp, as individuals voiced their disapproval and humorously commented on the unexpected color scheme.
This media house has observed that following the public outcry, the platform and rocks have since been repainted in neutral tones that blend more naturally with the surrounding landscape.
“Timothy Hill is a location cherished for its panoramic views, and the initiative was undertaken to increase its visibility as a branded landmark. The objective was to ensure that when people see Timothy Hill in photographs, they immediately recognize it as part of St. Kitts,” Wharton shared.
She emphasized that community feedback was essential, confirming that the Ministry is taking swift action to address the criticism.
“We are in further discussions to find a balanced approach to branding that preserves the area’s natural beauty,” she assured. “Your feedback is invaluable, and we are committed to solutions that respect our shared landscape.”
Wharton highlighted progressive initiatives by the Ministry aimed at advancing the tourism sector.
She detailed the Ministry’s commitment to diversifying St. Kitts’ tourism offerings, noting efforts to strengthen service delivery through ongoing training and support for local stakeholders.
“The Ministry of Tourism continues its work to diversify our product, laying the groundwork for a thriving and resilient industry. Through ongoing training initiatives and efforts to enhance service delivery, we are ensuring that St. Kitts remains competitive and appealing to a wide range of travelers. By equipping our stakeholders with the skills needed to meet evolving visitor experiences, visitor expectations, we are building a foundation that supports sustainable growth across the sector,”
Wharton explained.
She also underscored the importance of diversification to attract a wider range of travelers and ensure that tourism benefits are consistent throughout the year.
As understood, as part of such diversification, the Ministry is expanding its focus on the yachting sector, which capitalizes on the island’s pristine waters and natural harbors to cater to travelers seeking marine-based experiences.
Wharton stated: “And so diversification is essential, not only to attract a broader range of travelers but also to ensure that tourism’s benefits are widespread and consistent throughout the year. And so the yachting sector, we are tapping into this sector because it taps into the allure of our pristine waters and natural harbors. This sector will cater to the growing segment of travelers seeking marine base experiences bringing an influx of high-value visitors while respecting our coastal ecosystems.”
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS (Monday, October 28, 2024)-The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) has welcomed three newly-elected young members in their 20s and 30s, including a St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival Queen Pageant contestant Ms. Jutambien Kelly, to its executive committee for the 2024-2025 term.
21-year-old Ms. Kelly, alongside Mr. Keyshaun Jones and Mr. Jereth Morton, joins 13 returning members in rounding out the 16-member committee following their installation during the business session of the 85th annual workers’ conference held on Sunday 27th October 2024, at the SWMC Conference Room in Basseterre in Taylor’s Range, Basseterre.
The Union’s executive committee members for the 2024-2025 term are:
The six (6) officers are: President-Mr. Sydney Bridgewater, First Vice President-Mr. Curtis Francis, Second Vice President- Mr. James Pemberton, General Secretary- Ms. Precious Mills and Assistant General Secretary- Ms. Kirsty Lennon and Treasurer- Ms. Tanessa Caines Charles.
The ten (10) floor members: Mr. Sean Kelly, Mr. Lloyd Rouse, Mr. George Dixon, Ms. Nadine Natta, Ms. Eva Henderson, Mr. Kevion Hodge, Ms. Vanessa Browne, and newly-elected members Ms. Jutambien Kelly (daughter of Sean Kelly), Mr. Keyshaun Jones and Mr. Jereth Morton.
SKNT&LU Executive Committee members for the 2024-2025 term following the business session (Left to Right): Sean Kelly (floor member), Second Vice President Mr. James Pemberton, General Secretary Ms. Precious Mills, Keyshaun Jones (newly-elected floor member), Assistant General Secretary Ms. Kirsty Lennon, Ms. Vanessa ‘Vandel’ Browne, President Mr. Sydney Bridgewater, a St. Kitts and Nevis National Carnival Queen Pageant contestant-Ms. Jutambien Kelly (newly-elected floor member), Ms. Eva Henderson(floor member), Treasurer Ms. Tanessa Caines Charles, Ms. Nadine Natta, First Vice President Mr. Curtis Francis, Mr. Kevion Hodge, Huggins Mr. Lloyd Rouse and Mr. George Dixon (Spokesman Snap)
Under the theme ‘Empowering Workers: Strategies for Success in 2025 and Beyond’, the conference welcomed participants including workers from Carib Brewery (St. Kitts-Nevis Ltd.) and Harowe Servo Controls (St. Kitts) Ltd., companies that hold Collective Bargaining Agreements with the Union.
Remarks (during the public session) from Acting Labour Commissioner Jeneve Mills in representing the Ministry of Labour and Employment commended the Union’s dedication, saying: “The government and ministry commend the union for its dedication and continued efforts in creating spaces like this where we can engage in meaningful dialogue and foster collaboration between workers, employers and stakeholders.”
“Together we build a more resilient and empowered workforce, one that is not only capable but one that is motivated to excel. As we move forward on a path of sustainability, let us remember that our collective efforts will shape the future of work. Let us remain proactive, united and unwavering in our commitment to bettering the lives of the workers and enhancing productivity in our sectors,” he added.
In addition, the union’s conference received fraternal greetings from: Founder and President Jamaica Household Union (JHWU) and Chairperson of the Caribbean Domestic Workers Network (CDWN) Shirley Pryce, Political Leader of the St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party- Prime Minister Dr. Terrance M. Drew, Former General Secretary and Assistant General Secretary of the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) Asokore Beckles from Barbados-the 2023 Union Conference guest speaker and also Dean of the Labour Studies Department in Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies Ian Daniel (Trinidad and Tobago).
The event’s public session programme also included a Youth Call to Action from Kevion Hodge, the youngest executive committee member, and a presentation on health and wellness by Dr. Sharon Osborne, who highlighted hypertension as a “silent killer.”
Further coverage of the Union conference will be provided in next week’s publication.
Front Banner Image: Newly elected executive member Keyshaun Jones, executive committee member Vanessa ‘Vandel’ Browne, and Union member Naomi Mulraine—all employees of Harowe Servo Controls (St. Kitts) Ltd.—pose for a photo following the business session of the Union’s 85th annual conference.
