BASSETERRE, St Kitt's: In keeping with the St Kitts and Nevis government’s stated move towards transparency and accountability, and responding to calls from the news media for more frequent information, Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas launched the first post-Cabinet briefing at Government Headquarters on Monday.
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| St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas launches the first post-Cabinet briefing. SKNIS PHOTO |
Reporting on Cabinet discussions, Douglas indicated that matters of the Cricket World Cup, the adoption of the National Action Plan for the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, new support for small business start-ups, and the illegal occupancy of Crown Lands were the key matters discussed.
Douglas said the Cabinet recorded its praise and appreciation to the citizens and corporate bodies for responding “magnanimousely and graciously to the call of hosting matches of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007.” He said commendations were extended to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport and the Private Sector commercial enterprises for the successful completion of the Fort Street enhancement project on time and within budget.
He also indicated that the Cabinet was anticipating an outstanding visitor experience, with the help of the Security Forces and the hundreds of volunteers. He said, “The Cabinet salutes the Forces and the volunteers for their total commitment to duty and service.”
In Monday’s meeting, Cabinet also adopted the National Action Plan of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. As a result the Cabinet approved the following:
- The appointment of a Steering Committee to manage and implement the National Action Plan, and
- Country participation and consultation with key stakeholders and interest groups.
The Cabinet also recorded its continued support for the start-up of new small and micro-businesses, as well as the growth and expansion of existing businesses. The Prime Minister reported that Cabinet approved several submissions, and granted incentives for several applications. Most of the businesses are in services, providing support in the Tourism Sector.
Douglas also reported that Cabinet took note of the following situations:
- The illegal occupation of Crown Lands (Squatting)
- The illegal removal of head stones and the vandalism of property of the former sugar industry, specifically the removal of stones from chimneys.
Cabinet also noted the recent spate of canefield fires, which he said might be politically motivated. He called on the individuals involved to desist from the destructive acts.
The post-Cabinet briefing is designed to provide timely information to the media and the general public. | 
