Got NEWS? Email Us
Subscribe
Search
Home Blog Page 65

DR. CLARKE UPDATES GENERAL PUBLIC ON HER MINISTRIES’ INITIATIVES AND CELEBRATIONS 

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
DR. CLARKE UPDATES GENERAL PUBLIC ON HER MINISTRIES’ INITIATIVES AND CELEBRATIONS 

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 20, 2023 (SKNIS): The Honourable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment, during the November 20 Sitting of Parliament, provided a comprehensive update on her Ministries’ recent activities and achievements in promoting sustainable development across St. Kitts and Nevis.

This November, the Ministry of Sustainable Development is celebrating Sustainability Month, a significant initiative recognizing the joint efforts of multiple ministries including Tourism, Youth, and Energy. This collaboration underscores the government’s holistic approach to sustainability, demonstrating the interconnectedness of various sectors in achieving sustainable development goals.

Additionally, the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Hero Programme in Schools was also highlighted. A cornerstone of the Ministry’s education outreach, the SDG Hero programme, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has made a significant impact in schools across the nation. The Programme’s mascot, the SDG Captain, visited various schools, engaging students in interactive learning about the 17 SDGs under the 2030 Agenda. The initiative was met with enthusiasm from students who pledged their commitment to environmental stewardship and cleanliness.

“St. Kitts and Nevis’s dedication to the 2030 SDG Agenda is unwavering. Our recent initiatives, particularly the SDG Hero programme, have successfully engaged young minds in understanding and committing to these global goals,” said Dr. Clarke. “We are proud to witness the proactive involvement of our youth in fostering a sustainable future. Our collaborative efforts during Sustainability Month have also showcased the strength and impact of inter-ministerial cooperation in promoting sustainable development across different sectors.”

Minister Dr. Clarke said that the Ministry remains committed to advancing sustainable development and environmental conservation through education, community engagement, and cross-sector partnerships. Future initiatives will continue to focus on involving youth and community members in sustainability efforts, reinforcing the Federation’s commitment to the 2030 SDG Agenda.

The Honourable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment

ST. KITTS AND NEVIS SENDS RECORD-BREAKING TEAM TO 31ST OECS SWIMMING COMPETITION IN SAINT LUCIA

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
ST. KITTS AND NEVIS SENDS RECORD-BREAKING TEAM TO 31ST OECS SWIMMING COMPETITION IN SAINT LUCIA

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 09, 2023 (SKNIS): In a remarkable showcase of talent and national spirit, St. Kitts and Nevis sent a historic delegation of 22 swimmers to the 31st OECS Swimming Championships in Saint Lucia, slated for November 10-12, 2023. The team, featuring the nation’s elite swimmers, was finalized following standout performances at the recently concluded Swim Fest 2023 at Oualie Beach, Nevis.

During the sendoff ceremony at KayanJet Lounge on November 08, 2023, the Honorable Minister of Sports, Samal Duggins, lauded the athletes for their dedication and prowess. He praised the discipline and competitive spirit of the athletes, viewed their performance as evidence of the nation’s strong sports culture, and expressed confidence in their representation at the regional championships.

Hon. Samal Duggins

The ceremony, which brimmed with excitement and anticipation, also saw addresses by other government officials. Valencia Syder, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, praised the collective effort that led to this moment. She highlighted the effective partnership among parents, coaches, and community in supporting the development of sports, and commended the readiness of the large team for the upcoming championships.

L-R: Permanent Secretary Valencia Syder: Hon. Samal Duggins

His Excellency Ambassador Kenny Douglas, Sports Advisor, also took the opportunity to highlight the significance of the moment for the nation’s sporting history. Ambassador Douglas emphasized the significant increase in the number of swimmers participating in this year’s competition compared to last year and attributed this to the investment in youth and sports, while he described the swimmers as ambassadors for the nation.

H.E. Ambassador Kenneth Douglas

The team’s journey to Saint Lucia was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the swimmers’ parents and the support of KayanJet, which enabled the athletes to have a comfortable travel experience.

Under the tutelage of Coach Eldon Thomas from the Blue Marlin Swim Academy, the swimmers are poised for success. They will compete in a series of challenging races across multiple styles, including backstroke, butterfly, breaststroke, and freestyle.

The sendoff event was a celebration of not only the swimmers but also of the broader sports community, as five swim clubs with 95 registered swimmers vied for the Most Outstanding Club Trophy during the qualifying Swim Fest. This competitive spirit and support from the community form the backbone of the Federation’s sports achievements.

Team SKN

Minister Duggins said that as the team embarks on this important journey, St. Kitts and Nevis stands united in support of these exceptional athletes who are ready to make their mark at the OECS Swimming Championships

The team along with management officials and government functionaries

Nevis Island Assembly to convene on Tuesday, November 21

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
Nevis Island Assembly to convene on Tuesday, November 21

NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (November 20, 2023)- The Nevis Island Assembly will convene at the Nevis Island Assembly Chambers, Hamilton House on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.

According to the Order Paper circulated by Ms. Myra Williams, Clerk of the Assembly, the Honourable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis and Minister of Finance in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) will move the second and third readings of the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill 2023. The Bill was introduced for a first reading on November 06, 2023.

The Sitting is schedule to begin at 10 a.m.  and will be broadcast live on the Nevis Island Administration’s Nevis Television (NTv) Channel 99, NevisTvOnline.com, NTv Go App, Nevis Television Facebook page and Nevis Newscast YouTube channel. It will also be available on Voice of Nevis (VON) Radio, and other participating media agencies.

The Honourable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis and Minister of Finance in the Nevis Island Administration

FEDERAL PARLIAMENT PASSES KEY LEGISLATION TO FORTIFY ST. KITTS AND NEVIS’ GOOD GOVERNANCE AGENDA 

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
FEDERAL PARLIAMENT PASSES KEY LEGISLATION TO FORTIFY ST. KITTS AND NEVIS’ GOOD GOVERNANCE AGENDA 

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 20, 2023 (SKNIS):  In a significant move to bolster its transformative good governance agenda, the Federal Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis successfully passed two crucial pieces of legislation: the Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2023, and the Unauthorized Disclosure of Official Information Bill, 2023.

According to Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, the Honourable Garth Wilkin, both Bills, which underwent their first readings on May 25th, 2023, mark the fourth and fifth legislative steps taken by the government in its commitment to enhance transparency and accountability within its operations.

“Today, Madame Speaker, I am pleased to lead the debate of the fourth and fifth pillars of this administration’s good governance transformation…,” said AG Wilkin. “I want our people to remember that after today, with the grace of safe passage, the lawmakers on this side of the aisle have brought to the people five fundamental and interlinking legislative pillars to sustain the new good governance institutional infrastructure of St. Kitts and Nevis.”

The attorney-general highlighted the significance of the recent legislative advancements.

“Five laws that will serve as the blood source of permanent institutional bodies birthed to stand the test of time, outlasts the frailties of human nature and protect us from the corrupt, greedy men and women of this world so that we can truly achieve the sustainable island state that our people deserve,” said the attorney-general.

AG Wilkin added that “the complexities of public office bring you closer to God. It is not an easy task trying to be all things to all people, but being close to God is a good thing and symbolism is important in every religion.”

In February 2023, the Federal Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis successfully passed three significant pieces of legislation. The laws – the Anti-Corruption Bill, 2023, the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2023, and the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill, 2023 aim to reinforce the Federation’s commitment to good governance and form a crucial part of the administration’s transformative good governance agenda.

Attorney-General Wilkin

THRUST TOWARDS ACHIEVING CARICOM’S 25 BY 25 AGENDA IN THE FISHERIES SECTOR TO BE AMPLIFIED DURING FISHERIES WEEK 2023

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
THRUST TOWARDS ACHIEVING CARICOM’S 25 BY 25 AGENDA IN THE FISHERIES SECTOR TO BE AMPLIFIED DURING FISHERIES WEEK 2023

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, November 18, 2023 (SKNIS) – From Saturday, November 18 to Saturday, November 25, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources and Cooperatives will be hosting a week of activities in observance of World Fisheries Day 2023.

World Fisheries Day is celebrated globally on November 21 annually.

The activities organized during the week of celebration in St. Kitts and Nevis will seek to amply the ministry’s mission to achieve CARICOM’s 25 by 2025 Agenda of significantly reducing the region’s food import bill to 25 percent by the year 2025.

Minister of Fisheries, the Honourable Samal Duggins, in his national address for World Fisheries Day, stated that the fisheries sector plays a critical role in attaining CARICOM’s ambitious goal.

He said, “In today’s rapidly evolving fisheries sector, the call for sustainable and professional practices has never been clearer. The 25 by 25 target emphasizes the crucial need to ensure that 25% of St. Kitts and Nevis imports are reduced, as our homegrown or sourced fish stocks are harvested sustainably by the year 2025. This ambitious goal is driving conversations and actions within the industry, pushing professionals to cast a net of innovative strategies and responsible approaches.”

As the ministry works towards this goal, Minister Duggins stressed the need for effective communication between all relevant stakeholders.

The minister said, “As stakeholders work towards meeting the 25 by 2025 target, we should ensure that whether it’s articulating sustainable fishing practices, advocating for policy changes, or engaging with the wider public, the impact of effective communication reverberates across the entire fisheries landscape. We collectively have a goal; to meet our 25 by 25 target.”

He added, “By articulating our shared vision of a thriving and sustainable fisheries sector, we expect to inspire others to join the cause, amplifying the momentum towards achieving the 25 by 25 target. The 25 by 25 target presents a clarion call for the fisheries sector to embrace sustainable and professional practices. As citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis and stakeholders navigating the World Fisheries Week under the theme, “Casting The Net”, we can propel the sector, and meet our 25 by 25 target.”

Activities planned for the week include a fishing tournament at the Old Road Fisheries Complex, a staff professional development retreat, talks in schools and beach cleanups.

Hon. Samal Duggins

MINISTER’S YOUTH FORUM ENLIGHTENS ON THE VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ST KITTS AND NEVIS

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
MINISTER’S YOUTH FORUM ENLIGHTENS ON THE VISION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ST KITTS AND NEVIS

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 17, 2023 (SKNIS): The development of sustainable cities, expanding opportunities for creatives in Nevis, increasing agricultural production and reducing the food import bill, transforming the education curriculum and adapting to climate change were among the areas discussed at the annual Minister’s Youth Forum held at the CUNA Caribbean
Conference Centre on Friday, November 17, 2023.

Minister of State responsible for Youth Empowerment, the Honourable Isalean Phillip, hosted some 55 young people at the interactive session, which featured presentations on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the plans to transform St. Kitts and Nevis into a Sustainable Island State (SIS). The SDG segment was presented by Cosbert Woods, United Nations Country Coordinator for St. Kitts and Nevis, while Honourable Phillip expounded on the Sustainable Island State (SIS) Agenda and engaged in a lively Question and Answer segment.

Hon. Isalean Phillip

“I’m always pleased to hear just how informed or already abreast of the issues when it comes to climate and environmental change our young people are aware,” Minister of State Phillip stated. “They asked some real serious and very hard questions. They also made some very valuable contributions and suggestions as to how we can actually achieve our SIS agenda and so it is really nice to be able to have our young people onboard, which is really the objective for me as the minister [of state] responsible for youth, to make sure that youth voices are not actually heard but are also included.”

Representatives in attendance included students from the Verchild’s High School, Gingerland and Charlestown Secondary Schools, Nevis Sixth Form and Nevis International. Also present were officials from the Nevis Department of Youth, CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association, Project Discovery, Ade’s Place to name a few.

Deorian Esdaille, a 4th Form student of the Verchild’s High School noted that the forum was “very good” as it provided critical information about the future prospects and challenges facing St. Kitts and Nevis, and the world. He indicated that the segment on agriculture and food security made an impact.

“We need to eat healthy so that we do not get Cancer or so,” he stated, citing the need to have fresh, locally grown produce.

Mika O’brien represented the Shekinah Dance Theatre in Nevis at the Minister’s Youth Forum. This was her second consecutive year at the event and she welcomed the more targeted approach by the Department of Youth Empowerment to engage stakeholders, particularly those residing in Nevis.

“Compared to the bigger forums, it was (more) interactive and I think that is the most important thing because then you would get feedback from both young adults and adults and then the Youth Department, they will know how to go forward in terms of assisting the youths in their development,” she stated.

Minister of State Phillip said that the concerns expressed by the young people at the Minister’s Youth Forum and the Minister’s Youth Caravan which saw her making stops to dialogue with students from Washington Archibald, Basseterre, Cayon, Saddlers High Schools as well as the Charles E. Mills Secondary School on November 14, 15, and 16, were noted and action plans formulated to address the suggestions and concerns.

Hon. Isalean Phillip addresses the Youth at the Forum

Saint Kitts and Nevis Minister of Foreign Affairs, Economic Development, Investment, et al Convenes Meetings with Potential Investors in Riyadh

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
Saint Kitts and Nevis Minister of Foreign Affairs, Economic Development, Investment, et al Convenes Meetings with Potential Investors in Riyadh

Riyadh- 17th November 2023 – The First CARICOM-Saudi Arabia Summit hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on 16th November 2023 offered multiple opportunities for robust engagements with both public and private sector entities to explore the potential for collaboration and investment in the Region.

As a key member of the Saint Kitts and Nevis delegation, headed by the Honourable Prime Minister, Dr Terrance Drew, the Right Honourable Dr Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade, Industry, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Economic Development and Investment also attended the Investment Roundtable with CARICOM leaders, the Saudi Ministers of Investment, Foreign Affairs and Tourism as well as prospective investors.

L-R: Ms Mashael Bin Al Saedan, Chairwoman and President of Al Saedan for Development; Foreign Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Right Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas

The Saudi Minister for Investment, H.E. Khalid Alfilih expressed that “the Caribbean is a high priority for investment” and that it is “full of opportunity for growth and investment”. This was a recurring theme in interventions from CARICOM heads. The Hon Prime Minister Drew seized the opportunity to share perspectives for investment in health tourism, renewable energy, and the blue economy in Saint Kitts and Nevis and the CARICOM as a collective.

L-R: Mr Abdullah Alshilash, Managing director and CEO of Alkhair Capital; Minister of Foreign Affairs of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas

Following on from the Roundtable, Minister Douglas orchestrated meetings with private sector representatives to bolster support for investment projects in the Federation including Christophe Harbour and Kittitian Hill. These meetings have been fruitful with investors expressing a keen interest in investing in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Immediate next steps are virtual meetings with the relevant stakeholders followed by in-person visits to map out a pathway for concretizing these significant and budding partnerships formed in Riyadh over two days of productive engagements.

L-R: Ms Mashael Bin Al Saedan, Chairwoman and President of Al Saedan for Development; Foreign Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Right Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas

TWO VEHICLE INSPECTORS VISIT JAPAN TO GAIN INSIGHT ON PRE-SHIPMENT INSPECTION

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
TWO VEHICLE INSPECTORS VISIT JAPAN TO GAIN INSIGHT ON PRE-SHIPMENT INSPECTION

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 17, 2023 (SKNBS): The St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) is actively developing a National Vehicle Inspection Standard geared toward ensuring the roadworthiness of vehicles. This standard aims to streamline and unify the vehicle inspection process across the twin-island federation.
 
As part of this initiative, two experienced vehicle inspectors, Mr. Derval Phipps from St. Kitts and Mr. Franchette Manners from Nevis, who also serve on the Bureau’s technical committee, were dispatched to Tokyo, Japan. Their mission was to audit and train with EAA Ltd, a renowned Japanese company specializing in the pre-shipment inspection of motor vehicles across Asia, Africa, and the United Kingdom.
 
EAA Ltd, an internationally accredited company, boasts extensive expertise in the motor vehicle inspection industry. Their cutting-edge technology ensures high-quality and efficient inspection services, with facilities strategically located in major ports across Japan, including Yokohama Bay, Kawasaki, Kisarazu, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, and Kita-Kyusyu.
 
After their assessment in Japan, the Bureau of Standards’ technical committee representatives endorsed EAA Ltd’s vehicle inspection operations as credible, thorough, cutting-edge, and efficient.
 
Looking ahead, EAA Ltd is scheduled to visit the Federation in 2024 to conduct a needs assessment at all vehicle inspection facilities. Inspection shops meeting the minimum requirements will receive essential equipment from EAA Ltd, ensuring that vehicles undergo inspections locally at the same high standard.
 
Notably, the Bureau of Standards exclusively engages internationally accredited institutions, including labs, for operations on their behalf.
 
This commitment underscores the Bureau’s dedication to ensuring the reliability and safety of vehicles on the nation’s roads.

JAPAN VISIT

Notice

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
Notice

The St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) wishes to inform the general public that a radiation inspection team from France and Austria will be conducting a radiation inventory in the Federation.

The Bureau, along with Customs, Environment, and the Ministry of Health, will actively participate in training sessions and identification of radiation sources from November 20-24th, 2023.

This collective effort aims to strengthen the Federation’s ability to detect and manage radiation risks effectively.


Radio Stations: Please air at regular intervals.

EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS IN FEDERATION’S VEHICLE INSPECTION AND SAFETY MEASURES

Leocadia Hamilton
-
0
EXCITING DEVELOPMENTS IN FEDERATION’S VEHICLE INSPECTION AND SAFETY MEASURES

Basseterre, St. Kitts, November 17, 2023 (SKNBS): In a significant move toward ensuring vehicle safety and consumer protection, EAA Ltd is set to visit the Federation in 2024. Their mission involves conducting a comprehensive needs assessment at all vehicle inspection facilities within the Federation. Inspection shops meeting minimum requirements will be equipped with base equipment to ensure vehicles are inspected at a standardized level locally.
 
EAA Ltd is a globally recognized firm that possesses substantial knowledge in the field of motor vehicle inspection. Utilizing advanced technology, they guarantee top-notch and streamlined inspection services, with strategically positioned facilities at key ports in Japan, such as Yokohama Bay, Kawasaki, Kisarazu, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, and Kita-Kyushu.
 
This initiative comes on the heels of the recently passed Consumer Affairs Act by our sister department, Consumer Affairs. The Bureau of Standards, abiding by international standards, will support the implementation of services for nationals purchasing vehicles from Japan. These services include radiation checks, odometer checks, tire, brake, light, suspension, theft, and roadworthiness inspections.
 
To further safeguard consumers and businesses importing vehicles from Japan, the Bureau will provide investigative services. This aims to verify the legitimacy of exporters in Japan, preventing funds from being directed to proxy or shell companies.
 
Adding another layer of security, St. Kitts and Nevis, as a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), designates the Bureau of Standards as the official contact point for radiation safety. Starting in 2024, all vehicles entering the Federation will undergo radiation inspections before boarding any vessel. Customs, Health, and Port officials will also be equipped with radiation detection devices to identify and address potential threats at our ports.
 
In an upcoming collaboration, a radiation inspection team from France and Austria is scheduled to arrive this weekend. Their mission includes conducting a radiation inventory in the Federation. The Bureau, along with Customs, Environment, and the Ministry of Health, will actively participate in training sessions and identification of radiation sources from November 20-24th, 2023. This collective effort aims to strengthen the Federation’s ability to detect and manage radiation risks effectively.

1...646566...320Page 65 of 320