ST.JOHN'S Antigua, March 28th, 2012 -- Minister of National Security & Labour, Sen. the Hon. Dr. L. Errol Cort Chaired a meeting between key stakeholders within the yachting industry on Monday afternoon at the Copper and Lumber in Nelson’s Dockyard. He was also joined by Member of Parliament for St. Paul, Hon. Elston “Namba” Adams.
Monday’s meeting was held to address concerns by the Yacht Workers’ Association about the presence of illegal workers and other security issues at the Marinas, as well as to engage the stakeholders in finding solutions to these issues.
Recommendations, concerns and suggestions were heard from the Yacht Workers’ Association, Marina representatives, as well as from the view point of yacht captains. In response to some of these concerns, the Labour Commissioner, Chief of Immigration, the police, coast guard and military offered several workable solutions, in addition to those ongoing in the area, like frequent patrols. One recommendation was the opening of the Nelson’s Dockyard Police State on a 24 hour basis.
Minister Cort in wrapping up said he would fully support the National Parks Authority in their plans to pass legislation that would regulate persons working on yachts, but pointed out that until then, there was a need for interim measures to be put in place.
He also said that these interim measures would have to be agreed upon by marina owners as well as boat captains in order for them to be effective and successful. Minister Cort gave the stakeholders gathered the assurance that he will continue to work with them to improve the security in the area, as well as a need to reengage at a later date to measure any achievements made.
Present at the meeting from the Ministry was Chief of Defence, Staff Col Trevor Thomas; Chief Immigration Officer, Lt. Col. Ivor Walker; Labour Commissioner, Hesketh Williams; Chief of Police, Vere Browne as well as respective members of their staff.
President of the Yacht Workers’ Association, Stephen Samuel was joined by members of his association along with other stakeholders including Claude Anthony and members of the National Parks Authority, representatives from the Guardian and Special Security Services security companies, as well as representatives from several of the Marinas in the Falmouth and English Harbour environs.
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