The implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) by 2005 is crucial to the social and economic advancement of the peoples of the Region in an era of increased globalisation and dominance by large economic groupings, Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Baldwin Spencer told staff of the CARICOM Secretariat in Guyana today.

Speaking to some 200 members of staff at the Ocean View Convention Centre in Georgetown, the Prime Minister stressed that without the CSME, nationals of the Region would be unable to reap the benefits of free trade.

He added that the CSME was a bold undertaking worthy of being vigourously pursued by all Governments of CARICOM Member States, as the Caribbean seeks to keep apace with growing trends of technological development and trade liberalisation.

He added that the CSME was a bold undertaking worthy of being vigourously pursued by all Governments of CARICOM Member States, as the Caribbean seeks to keep apace with growing trends of technological development and trade liberalisation.

The Antiguan Prime Minister noted that his stewardship as Chairman of CARICOM commenced soon after his accession to office, but he expressed confidence about the continued support of CARICOM Heads with regard to Antigua and Barbuda's ongoing participation in the Regional integration process.

Highlighting the importance of increased prominence of Regional Opposition parties in the activities of CARICOM, Mr. Spencer said their voices were important since they represent significant constituents within the CARICOM Region. The Prime Minister gave assurance of his full support for collaboration at the level of CARICOM Heads of Government and Opposition parties through existing avenues such as the Assembly of Caribbean Community Parliamentarians (ACCP) and other formal channels of interaction.

The CARICOM Chairman entertained questions and comments from CARICOM staff. He expressed the view that the secretariat is staffed by a cadre of committed persons, including some of the best professionals, who were doing a tremendous job despite serious resource limitations. The CARICOM Chairman endorsed a programme for improved remuneration for staff of the CARICOM Secretariat in the context of a process of restructuring, to among other things, ensure the timely filling of vacancies, recruitment and retention of professionals and the effective execution of programmes of the Secretariat.

Mr Spencer's visit to Guyana included a meeting with the CARICOM Secretary General and tour of the new CARICOM Headquarters at Liliendaal which was followed by his courtesy call on His Excellency, Bharrat Jagdeo, President of Guyana.

Contact: Huntley Medley
Public Relations Consultant
Office of the Secretary-General

Tel: (592) 226-9280/9 or 227-4671
E-mail: hmedley@caricom.org