G-G Expects Results from CARICOM Meeting

KINGSTON — Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, says the recently concluded 14th Conference of Presidents and Governors-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reaffirmed the critical roles the Heads of State play in their respective societies.

"If we were ever in any doubt about the relevance of our positions, we have seen from the Conference discussions that there are many avenues through which, as non-executive Heads of State, we can influence our respective societies," he said. 

His Excellency was speaking at the closing session of the conference at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston Thursday (November 24). The theme of the conference was, 'Building Together for the Future'.

Highlighting some of the discussions, the Governor-General said topics, such as expanding the role of the Governor-General and how it influences and is influenced by civil society, were undertaken.

"We recognize that if our roles are going to be relevant and touching the lives of people that, to a great extent, we will need to involve the private sector. We are already involved with the civil service and the Government sector. So, as we seek to expand our roles and to impact our societies, it appears that we will need to have greater involvement with the private sector,” he said.

He noted that other initiatives discussed included how, by working in collaboration with private sector partners, Governors-General can extend the reach of their office to have a greater impact on social and economic development.

His Excellency said that during the course of the conference, discussions on matters of protocol, conditions of service and the celebration of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II were also highlighted.

"I am sure that whatever is planned by each country, will be of the standard expected of Caribbean Realm Countries and will be appropriate for this historic event," he said.

He noted that it was interesting to hear the range of practices and procedures in the various territories, adding that "I am sure we can find many areas of common ground".

He noted that, after four days of meeting, the participants reaffirmed their commitment to the continuing existence and success of the Conference of Presidents and Governors-General of the Caribbean Community.

"This in support of partnership among Heads of State, and the need for us to be able to provide timely interventions into the complex social challenges which we face in the region," he said.

The Governor-General said that it was an "honour and pleasure" to host the various Presidents and Governors-General of the Caribbean Community, adding that he is confident that tangible results from their deliberations will be evident in the months to come.

Ten Heads of State from Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica attended the four-day conference.

The event allowed for the sharing of experiences and developments in the various territories.

By Chris Patterson, JIS Reporter