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ATTORNEY-GENERAL WILKIN HOPES TO HAVE CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORMS IN ST. KITTS AND NEVIS STREAMLINED IN 2024

Leocadia Hamilton
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ATTORNEY-GENERAL WILKIN HOPES TO HAVE CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORMS IN ST. KITTS AND NEVIS STREAMLINED IN 2024

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, November 23, 2023 (SKNIS) – During his recent appearance on the well-known radio and television show, InFocus, on November 21, 2023, the Honourable Garth Wilkin, Attorney General (AG), emphasized the Government’s dedication to reforming the criminal justice system. This overhaul aims to enhance the efficiency of handling criminal cases, with the goal of delivering faster justice for the citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Under the current prosecutorial system in St. Kitts and Nevis – adopted from the system used in the United Kingdom – victims and accused often face extensive waiting times before their cases are called and justice can be dispensed. As such, Minister Wilkin said his office has embarked on a comprehensive plan to address this matter by introducing an efficient justice system that meets the needs of both victims and accused individuals.

The attorney-general said that a key consideration in the reform efforts is the proposal to reduce the number of jurors in criminal trials. This change is aimed at streamlining the jury paneling process, making it more efficient and swift.

Attorney-General Wilkin said St. Kitts and Nevis is also considering the introduction of judge-only trials for certain offences, which he said, has already been successfully introduced in the neighbouring island of Antigua and Barbuda.

“When you involve a jury it adds a lot of extra time, and expense, to the matter. So there are some matters where we believe that there are enough statistics to show that justice is served even if a judge alone [hears the case],” said AG Wilkin.
 

Minister Wilkin highlighted that many of the criminal laws in the Federation, having been established in the colonial era, do not adequately address the range of crimes that could occur in contemporary St. Kitts and Nevis. In light of this, the Honourable Attorney General expressed the intention to revise and update these laws to better align with the dynamics of a modern society.
 

“For example, our Larceny Act is a 19th century act so it does not speak to certain types of modern theft that can occur by digital means and otherwise,” the minister said. “So when you tidy up those things then you have an easier task as a prosecutor, and the defendant has an easier task also in terms of knowing what they are actually charged with,” Attorney-General Wilkin said.

Adlai Smith, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for St. Kitts and Nevis, concurs with the Attorney General on the urgent need for reforms in the criminal justice system, specifically addressing what he terms as ‘delays’ in justice delivery.
 

DPPS mith plans to advocate for the use of pre-recorded video evidence and cross-examinations, especially in cases involving vulnerable witnesses. A person is considered a vulnerable witness if they experience fear or distress about testifying; have mental or learning disabilities; fall below a certain age limit; or are victims of domestic abuse, sexual crimes, stalking, human trafficking, or could be harmed by giving evidence.
 

“So I think once we put that particular system in place I think we can do away with the problem of witnesses leaving the country and being unavailable because sometimes once they leave it’s hard to track them down,” said the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Attorney-General Wilkin said it is his goal to have these comprehensive reforms to the criminal justice system, which also includes potentially implementing plea deal legislation, streamlined by July 2024.

Hon. Garth Wilkin

FRIGATE BAY AND SOUTH EAST PENINSULA AREA SET TO BENEFIT FROM AN ADDITIONAL 4.5 MILLION GALLONS OF WATER PER MONTH

Leocadia Hamilton
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FRIGATE BAY AND SOUTH EAST PENINSULA AREA SET TO BENEFIT FROM AN ADDITIONAL 4.5 MILLION GALLONS OF WATER PER MONTH

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 22, 2023 (SKNIS): The water supply for the Frigate Bay and Southeast Peninsula area is scheduled to be enhanced by an additional 4.5 million gallons per month, as announced by the Minister of Public Infrastructure, the Honourable Konris Maynard while addressing the National Assembly on November 20.

“Some months ago we informed the general public and in particular the residents of the Southeast Peninsula that we would pursue building out infrastructure in the Frigate Bay Area to access another 150,000 gallons per day or about 4.5 million gallons per month from the Marriott Desalination Plant,” he said.  

“I want to report that those efforts are now complete, the huts and infrastructure has been installed, testing has been successful and we are just about ready to inject this additional 4.5 million gallons of water per month in the Frigate Bay Area,” said the Honourable Minister. 

He further noted that with these improvements, the water services in the Basseterre, Frigate Bay, and Southeast Peninsula area are expected to see significant enhancements in the near future. 
 

“I am advised that many residents in the Frigate Bay Area already see a significant improvement in the regular service of water and we want to extend this to the regular South East Peninsula as well,” said Minister Maynard.
 

Minister Maynard also addressed the pipeline issues affecting the Southeast Peninsula. He stated that the pipes are currently being repaired due to saltwater intrusion and erosion, ensuring that everyone on the South East Peninsula, including those catering to our tourism sector and residents, will have a consistent water supply.

Hon. Konris Maynard

Embark on Culinary Greatness with the Food Court Challenge TV Show!

Leocadia Hamilton
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Embark on Culinary Greatness with the Food Court Challenge TV Show!

For Immediate Release – MINISTRY OF SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENUERSHIP

Basseterre — April 21st, 2023 — The Ministry of Small Business & Entrepreneurship proudly announces the launch of the Food Court Challenge TV Show, a thrilling culinary competition and business accelerator that promises to transform the local food scene.


What’s at Stake: Participating foodpreneurs have the chance to win a rent-free spot at the bustling Bird Rock Food Court for first three months, a substantial XCD$10,000 investment, and an Accelerator Package featuring personalized coaching, branding expertise, and financial consultations.

How to Enter: Contestants are invited to submit their applications by November 28th, 2023. Requirements include a captivating 1-page Business Bio, a delectable menu showcasing their culinary prowess, appetizing food photos, proof of Approved Small Business Status (issued by the Ministry), and a valid Food Handler’s Permit.


Calling All Culinary Maestros: This is an unparalleled opportunity for seasoned food entrepreneurs to showcase their skills and catapult their businesses to new heights. The Food Court Challenge TV Show aims to uncover hidden talents and redefine the local food landscape.
Important Dates:

• Submission Deadline: November 28th, 2023

Contact Information: For inquiries and submissions, please contact SBDC@GOV.KN or call 467-1203. Join Us in the Culinary Revolution! The Food Court Challenge TV Show is more than a competition; it’s a platform for culinary visionaries to shine. We invite the media to join us in spreading the word about this exciting opportunity for local foodpreneurs.

Credits: Google’s Vectorstock

REPUBLIC BANK WINS AT THE 2023 ECCU BANK OF THE YEAR AWARDS 

Leocadia Hamilton
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REPUBLIC BANK WINS AT THE 2023 ECCU BANK OF THE YEAR AWARDS 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Castries, Saint Lucia, 22nd November 2023 – Republic Bank (EC) St. Lucia has been recognized as the 2023 Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) Bank of the Year for Corporate Social Responsibility for its commitment to the wider community, underpinned by its Corporate Social Responsibility programme ‘The Power to Make a Difference’. This prestigious award presented by the ECCU was announced at a ceremony held at the Central Bank’s headquarters in Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis on November 8, 2023. 

Launched in 2022 in the East Caribbean, the Power to a Make Difference programme (PMAD) encourages collaboration with like-minded partners to create meaningful impact to build a better tomorrow. The programme focuses on supporting the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through creating productive avenues for the youth of our nations, fostering entrepreneurship, and empowering many individuals to aspire to their greatest potential. 

Since PMAD’s inception, the Bank has worked together with civil society to fund and support several programmes including the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund to preserve our ecosystem and species; Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association in supporting early detection of blinding eye disease; National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities and their aquaponics project; Daren Sammy Foundation and its support to disadvantaged families; and Obtronics through its promotion of digital literacy.  

Through its PMAD Programme and many other projects, the Bank has demonstrated its support to community and social investment as one of its foundational pillars.  

Republic Bank’s Senior Country Lead for Saint Lucia Branches, Gezella Claxton, expressed the elation of the management and staff at being the recipients of this significant award.  

“At Republic Bank, we are not just a bank,” notes Ms. Claxton, “we are a responsible corporate citizen with the power to make a difference and we genuinely care about the betterment of the lives of the people in the communities that we live and work in”.  

Also receiving an award was Republic Bank Grenada as the 2023 ECCU Bank of the Year for support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.  

Republic Bank is honored to be recognized for the hard work of its team members and partners and is proud of the strides made by the many recipients of this Programme. Through its steady efforts, the Bank has demonstrated its commitment to this Region and is excited to build upon the work done so far to even greater plans in the future. 

Pamela Herbert Daniel – Country Manager St. Kitts and Nevis, Republic Bank EC

RUSVM DONATES STATE-OF-THE-ART IT LAB TOBEACH ALLEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

Leocadia Hamilton
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RUSVM DONATES STATE-OF-THE-ART IT LAB TOBEACH ALLEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

PRESS RELEASE- The Ministry of Education media unit

Basseterre, St. Kitts, Wednesday, November 22, 2023: In a generous gesture aimed at advancing
education in the local community, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM)
has officially handed over an Information Technology (IT) Lab to Beach Allen Primary School.
The ceremony took place on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, marking a significant milestone in
the collaboration between RUSVM and the primary school.
Dr. Sean Callanan, Dean of Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, urged students to
use the computers to enhance their learning.
 
“This is an amazing opportunity that you get, so embrace it. You can make yourself better, you
can make your family better, you can make this federation better, and you can make yourself a
better person in the world. Students, technology is built for good, but technology can sometimes
be used for bad. It is important that you recognize both and, over time, reflect on how you use
technology, and the more you use it for good, I guarantee you, the better everything will be.”
 
Mrs. Jamillah Bristol-Browne, Principal at Beach Allen Primary School, highlighted the
transformative impact the lab would have on enhancing the learning experience of students and
extended heartfelt appreciation to ADTALEM, the parent institution of RUSVM.
 
“Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather to celebrate the official opening of our new
computer room, a space that represents not just a room filled with machines but a gateway to
boundless knowledge and opportunities. We are not just inaugurating a computer room; we are
embracing a new era of learning for our students. A heartfelt thank you to ADTALEM Global
Education for your invaluable contribution to the future of our students. Your generosity has
ignited a spark that will undoubtedly illuminate the educational journey for generations to
come.”
Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Education, conveyed gratitude to RUSVM for 40 years of
impactful partnership with the Federation, and accordingly emphasized the crucial role played by
technology in advancing education and promoting sustainable development in St. Kitts and
Nevis.

“This year is our 40-year relationship with Ross University and the Federation of St. Kitts and
Nevis, and over those 40 years, our federation would have benefited tremendously in all areas
that you can possibly think of, more so education. As we move towards a sustainable island state,
it is very clear that education must be one of the driving forces to get us there, and education is
highly associated with technology. I believe this investment in the computer lab will birth many
future careers. Dean, I want to thank you on behalf of the government and people of St. Kitts and
Nevis and by extension, the entire Ministry of Education, for all that you have been doing and
what your organization will continue to do.”
 
The donation of the IT Lab by RUSVM to Beach Allen Primary School stands as a beacon of
progress, providing a tangible boost to the educational landscape of the school.

Credits: Google’s Vectorstock

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE FORGING AHEAD WITH THE APPLICATION OF DIGITAL AGRICULTURAL SOLUTIONS FOR ST. KITTS AND NEVIS

Leocadia Hamilton
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MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE FORGING AHEAD WITH THE APPLICATION OF DIGITAL AGRICULTURAL SOLUTIONS FOR ST. KITTS AND NEVIS

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, November 22, 2023 (SKNIS) – Farmers, food producers, administrators and other stakeholders linked to the agricultural sector took part in an open and interactive national consultation on Digital Agriculture Solutions (DAS) today, Wednesday, November 22, 2023.
 

TheDigital Agriculture Solutions project, a collaborative effort between the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), aims to foster the use of intelligent technologies in farming. By providing farmers with timely and crucial insights, the project is designed to assist them in implementing best practices and managing their farms more effectively. The adoption of these smart technologies is expected to substantially decrease losses and simultaneously enhance profitability in the agricultural sector.
 

Acting Director of Agriculture Ms. Jeanelle Kelly delivered remarks at the opening ceremony for the national stakeholders consultation at the Department of Agriculture Conference Room. She stated that digital technologies help to speed improvements in food systems while reducing environmental impacts.

“By adopting digital agriculture technologies, smallholder farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can get ready access to data, expertise, finance, inputs and other resources to increase productivity, quality, business management practices, income and resilience,” she said. “We must therefore, adopt affordable, sustainable and integrated digital solutions that improve agricultural efficiency and tackle complex food and market system challenges to help meet the world’s growing demand for food.”

Director Kelly noted that these digital solutions for St. Kitts and Nevis must include extension and advisory services that offer farmers technical advice on good agricultural practices.
 

Ms. Kelly further highlighted the significance of traceability in food production, noting that the project includes technologies designed to track the origin, processing, movement, and sale of agricultural products. These technologies support food safety, legal compliance, product quality, and the creation of more transparent supply chains.
 

“Of course, also included would be finance and mobile money, that is, mobile applications or online platforms for farmers and agri-businesses to save money,” Director Kelly added.

To complement the Department of Agriculture’s thrust in the application of digital agriculture solutions, a training programme is being planned for next month where beneficiary farmers will receive and be trained in the use of digital technology as it relates to greenhouses.

RESOLUTION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF ST. CHRISTOPHER AND NEVIS ON GEOTHERMAL ENERGY UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTED BY MEMBERS

Leocadia Hamilton
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RESOLUTION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF ST. CHRISTOPHER AND NEVIS ON GEOTHERMAL ENERGY UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTED BY MEMBERS

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 22, 2023 (SKNIS): Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, introduced a Geothermal Energy Resolution to the National Assembly during a Sitting on November 20.  Titled ‘Resolution of the National Assembly of St. Christopher and Nevis on Geothermal Energy,’ it received unanimous backing from the Federal Parliament.

Theresolution reads:
 

“Whereas the Federal Government of St. Christopher and the Nevis Island Administration equally recognize the critical importance of energy security, and the need to transition to sustainable and renewable energy sources, and whereas the Federal Government of St. Christopher and the Nevis Island Administration are collaboratively pursuing the development of a geothermal project located at Vaughans Nevis to enhance the Federation’s energy resilience and reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and whereas the production of geothermal energy will be a significant step towards achieving the goal of full energy independence by harnessing the abundant geothermal resources in Nevis and whereas the project has received contingently recoverable grant funding approval from the Caribbean Development Bank to the sum of US 17 million dollars through the CDB’s special funds resources allocated from funding from the Inter American Development Bank, Sustainable Energy Facility, the Green Climate Fund and the Government of Italy for the development of first set of production wells.”

“Whereas the Federal Government and the Nevis Island Administration are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the project extends to all citizens and residents of St. Christopher and Nevis, and whereas the successful implementation of the project, is expected to contribute to the energy prices, economic growth and job creation across the Federation.”

Therefore, be it resolved that the National Assembly of St. Christopher and Nevis that: 

  1. The National Assembly acknowledges the potential of the project to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable economic development
  2. The national assembly expresses its support for collaborative efforts between the Federal Government and the Nevis Island Administration in the pursuit of geothermal energy development and the project
  3. The National Assembly affirms that the benefits to be derived from the project should extend to all citizens and residents of St. Christopher and Nevis. 
  4. The National Assembly commends the partnership with regional organizations including the Caribbean Development Bank, the Caribbean Community Climate Change Center and the Caribbean Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency and supports continued collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure the success of the project. 

5. The National Assembly expresses confidence that the project will contribute significantly to achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals and advancing the Federation’s commitment to a future of clean, affordable and renewable energy and transition into a sustainable island state.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew

Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill 2023 passes in the Nevis Island Assembly  

Leocadia Hamilton
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Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill 2023 passes in the Nevis Island Assembly  

NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (November 22, 2023)- The Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill 2023 successfully passed in the Nevis Island Assembly on Tuesday, November 21, 2023. 

The amended legislation empowers the Deputy Governor General to appoint a second member of the Integrity Commission “on the advice of the Premier after consultation with the Members of the Opposition if any” if the Opposition Member or Members fail to agree on a nominee. 

Mover of the Bill, Premier of Nevis the Honourable Mark Brantley said the amendment had become necessary in order to remedy a situation created by what he called “a failure of leadership” on the part of the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) which comprises the parliamentary Opposition. 

He stated that the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM)-led Administration had already put forward the name of the government’s nominee to the three-member Commission. The Deputy Governor General has indicated her nominee for Chairperson.

Premier Brantley explained that the establishment of the Integrity Commission has been impeded because of dissention among the two elected members of the Opposition and their inability to agree on an Opposition nominee.

Premier of Nevis the Honourable Mark Brantley leading the debate on the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill 2023 in the Nevis Island Assembly on November 21, 2023

“We are here to try to fix it and give the Opposition yet another opportunity to appoint somebody to the Integrity Commission…the Integrity Commission could have, tomorrow, a member appointed by the Opposition if there can be consensus among them. And I am here to say, if they can’t get their house in order I will make the necessary recommendation to the Deputy Governor General so that the Commission can do its work.

“Nevis cannot be held hostage by a dysfunctional Opposition. The days for that are over. We’ve been waiting and waiting and waiting. We have come now to create a mechanism to allow us to move forward. I believe that the case has been made as to why we’re here and why we need the amendments in order to allow the Commission to function.”  

Members on the Government benches who serve in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) Cabinet all spoke in support of the amendment.

Premier Brantley highlighted that the Integrity in Public Life Ordinance was passed in the Assembly in September 2013 under a CCM-led administration.

YOUTH ART EXHIBITION LEAVES INDELIBLE MARK ON PRIME MINISTER DR. DREW

Leocadia Hamilton
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YOUTH ART EXHIBITION LEAVES INDELIBLE MARK ON PRIME MINISTER DR. DREW

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 21, 2023 (SKNIS): The vibrant creative paintings mounted at the 2023 Youth Art Exhibition have left an indelible impression on visitors, including St. Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew. The prime minister explored the art exhibition on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, and marvelled at the artistic skills of the young people.

“What I have seen here today is indeed impressive. The students have demonstrated a high level of competency and when you look at the exhibition, you feel so proud that we have such talented young people in St. Kitts and Nevis,” Honourable Dr. Drew stated, after viewing the paintings at The Cable Building.

Minister of State of Youth Empowerment, the Hon. Isalean Phillip, shows PM Dr. Drew around the exhibition

He noted that the 40 art pieces, which showcase historical sites, green energy, resource conservation, and areas of natural beauty, are the product of positive energies being channelled to capture the government’s vision to create a Sustainable Island State.

The prime minister, who has a keen interest in art, was gifted two paintings by a friend in recognition of his birthday on November 22, 2023. Other paintings were previously purchased by individuals.

The unsold art pieces are currently available for purchase up until November 30, 2023. The public is encouraged to visit the exhibition before it ends to secure their preferred paintings. There is no admission fee. Persons can stop by during the opening hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Those remaining will be acquired by the Office of Prime Minister.

“We will buy them, and we will use them as gifts when we present to visiting dignitaries and so forth so that they can get a taste of local art by our young people,” said Dr. Drew.

The prime minister said that the “investment into the youth” is worthwhile.

On the eve of his birthday, PM Dr. Drew was gifted with two paintings, seen in the background.

THIRTEEN INDIVIDUALS OFFICIALLY AWARDED 2023 NATIONAL HONOURS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO NATION-BUILDING

Leocadia Hamilton
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THIRTEEN INDIVIDUALS OFFICIALLY AWARDED 2023 NATIONAL HONOURS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO NATION-BUILDING

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 21, 2023 (SKNIS):  Thirteen exemplary nationals of St. Kitts and Nevis were invested with the 2023 National Honours Awards for their exceptional contribution to the development of the Federation at an Investiture Ceremony held by Her Excellency the Governor-General, Dame Marcella Liburd, on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Government House.

This year’s recipients of the Companion of the Star of Merit (CSM), who were first honoured on National Heroes Day on September 16, 2023, include Daniel Arthurton (Agriculture, Farming, and Small Business Development), Ima Stanley (Nursing), Ian Queeley (Law Enforcement), Carmen Ward (Education), Ingrid Berridge (Education), Prisca Hyligar (Education and Religion), Dr. Osbert Liburd (Agro-Business, Corporate Business, and Diplomacy), Cynthia Williams (Education), Mitchell Slader (Trade Unionism/Labour Relations), Avril Noel (Education), Peter Jenkins (Sports and Community Activism), Eldora Samuel (Education), and Rubie Taylor (Social Security).

The Companion of the Star of Merit is awarded for long and meritorious service, or loyal and devoted service to the nation.

Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew reflected on a saying about how great individuals sow seeds for future generations, understanding they may not personally benefit from their efforts. He emphasized this trait in the award recipients, calling for a standing ovation to appreciate their contributions.

Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew

Dr. Drew recognized the recipients not for their accolades, but for their intrinsic qualities of love, hard work and dedication to nation-building, emphasizing that these attributes, rather than their achievements, truly define them and their legacy. 

He remarked that anyone growing up in St. Kitts and Nevis, almost certainly has been personally influenced by at least one of the award recipients, which highlights the significant impact they have had on our nation.

“When I look at them I can clearly say that these are not persons who have all the financial resources bestowed upon them, but I can say that what they carry is much more valuable than that,” said Prime Minister Dr. Drew. “It is a deep love and dedication to the common good that transcends personal advancements. And therefore, this is what I think is the quality that has made them so benefitting of the Companion of the Star Merit.”

The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the nation to consistently recognize and appreciate those who have played crucial roles in the development of St. Kitts and Nevis, especially considering its status as a young nation. He emphasized the invaluable contributions of these men and women across various fields, who have given much more than they have received, offering their utmost for the country’s growth.

The Medal of Honour recipients will be awarded at a similar ceremony on Wednesday, November 22, 2023.

Seated (Left to right) Prime Minister Dr. Drew; Dame Marcella; Deputy Governor General for Nevis Her Honour Hyleta Liburd, and Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, with the 2023 Awardees of the Companion of Star of Merit (CSM)
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