Minister Carty Outlines Specifics of Registration
~~Adz:Left~~Basseterre, St. Kitts (December 28, 2007): Minister of State for Information Honourable Nigel Carty has called on all eligible voters to confirm their registration at the earliest convenience thus expediting the issuance of the modern National Identification Card.
During an interview with SKNIS’ Director Mahlon Goma, Minister Carty revealed that voters can presently reregister at the Electoral Office on Central Street in St. Kitts – next to the Development Bank building – and at Chapel Street in Nevis until September 30, 2008.
He noted that the reregistration process refers specifically to persons who are already registered to vote. Once that person presents himself/herself at the Electoral Office, and their identity is confirmed via a valid document such as a passport or drivers license, they will be presented with a form to fill out relevant questions such as name, date of birth and current address. Information regarding parents name and whether the individual has a twin sibling will also be collected to minimize conflicts about ones identity. Voters will have their picture taken at this time.
All of the information will be computerized and compiled into a database. Minister Carty assured the public that the personal information collected from voters will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Security software such as firewalls and virtual private networks will be among modern features that will keep the information protected. A username and password system will also be required to prevent unauthorized access of the information. When approved personnel access the data, a record will be automatically generated to ensure the activities are tracked.
Minister Carty stressed that Government is taking all necessary steps to protect the validity of the new voters list and the identity of voters. He further mentioned that Government was considering establishing temporary stations around both islands to expedite the reregistration process.
The full interview with Minister of State Nigel Carty will air on a future SKNIS programme.
