It is with deep regret that I have learnt of the death of Sir Gerald Cash. Sir Gerald’s role in the public life of The Bahamas is well documented attaining the highest office in the land, serving as Governor-General for 12 years after being an MP and a Senator.

The Caribbean Community recalls with affection that at the time of the accession of The Bahamas to CARICOM, Sir Gerald was the Head of State. Bahamians no doubt will remember him for the part he played during the 1956 Resolution that brought an end to racial discrimination in public places in their country.

Ambassador Lortie
Distinguished officials of the Government of Canada
Distinguished delegates
Ladies and Gentlemen

First of all, Ambassador Lortie, let me express my appreciation and that of my delegation to you for your kind opening remarks and to the Government of Canada for the warm welcome and kind hospitality extended to my delegation since our arrival.  In spite of these snowstorm conditions, the warm spirit of Canada which characterizes the special relationship which our Region has long enjoyed with your country has been very much in evidence.

Mr. Chairman, Ambassadors, Members of Delegations. . . .

I want to discuss with you how the CARICOM region views the issue of regional security, the approaches the region is taking in respect to its application, and the problems which impact it at this current historical period.

Let me, first of all, give a historical perspective of some aspects regarding the evolution of the traditional form of military security for the protection of sovereignty in the CARICOM region.