St. Vincent & The Grenadines-Economist Lauds Consultations In Diaspora

NEW YORK, CMC – A leading economist in St. Vincent and the Grenadines has described as "an eye opener", the Ralph Gonsalves administration's series of public consultations with nationals in the Diaspora as part of what it says are preparations for a National Economic and Social Development Plan for the country.

"It's the first time we're doing it, so I didn't know what to expect," Decima Corea, who is currently leading a Government delegation overseas on the issue, told the Caribbean Media Corporation Wednesday night after conducting consultations in Brooklyn.

"I came with an open mind, and what I've found is that Vincentians in the Diaspora are happy to be called Vincentians and happy to contribute [to the plan]," she added.

Corea said the Diaspora consultations, which began last month in the United Kingdom, would significantly enhance the country's economic plan for 2008-2025. She added that the Diaspora has something significant to contribute to the development process.

Angela Patrick, Deputy chairperson of the National Economic and Social Development Plan, told the public forum at St. Alban's Episcopal (Anglican) Church in Brooklyn that the views of all Vincentians will be included in the plan.

"You have a critical role in the plan," she said. "We've started a very serious process of dialogue and partnership."

Patrick said it is necessary to develop the comprehensive plan in order to help offset the negative effects of globalization, the erosion of preferences for the region's bananas on the European market, increased competition facing the tourism industry, crime, illegal drugs and terrorism, among other things.

Corea added that the plan encompasses five broad goals: enhancing global competitiveness; enabling human and social development; promoting good governance; improving physical infrastructure; preserving the environment and mitigating the impact of climate change; and building national price.

Acting New York Consul General Cyril "Scorcher" Thomas, who chaired the Brooklyn forum, said the plan will "incorporate all dimensions of the development paradigm – economic, social, environmental, political, cultural and institutional – into an integrated, multi-sectoral policy agenda that promotes sustainable and balanced growth and development." 

"The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines," he said.

Participants applauded the administration's initiative in reaching out to the Vincentian Diaspora, stating that it is "a step in the right direction".

The delegation last Sunday held a similar forum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and will conduct meetings in Washington last Friday.

Last week, a separate delegation visited several Canadian cities, including Toronto and Montreal.

Next month, a team turns to the region, visiting the British Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica.

Corea said a draft document will be formulated and debated in parliament before the end of the year

 

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