~~Adz:Left~~Communiqué on Joint Meeting of the Federal and Nevis Island Administration Cabinets Held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort Friday 13th October 2006

There was a joint meeting of the Federal and Nevis Island Administration Cabinets today, Friday 13th October 2006 at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.

Opening remarks were delivered by Hon. Prime Minister, Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and the Hon. Premier, Mr. Joseph Parry. Both leaders expressed the desire to work closely together by improving communication and collaboration on all maters of state that would promote the well-being of the citizens of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

It was agreed to institutionalise meetings of the two Cabinets on a quarterly basis with the agenda items to be agreed upon by the Prime Minister and the Premier.

The functioning of the Federal Office in Nevis as a means of enhancing the relationship between the Federal Government and the citizens of Nevis was discussed and a working group was established to look at the way forward.

The meeting also reaffirmed a strong commitment toward Constitutional Reform and in this regard, a small committee was established to look specifically at the devolution of authority in certain areas to the Nevis Island Administration within the broader context of Constitutional Reform. This committee is to be chaired by the Hon. Attorney General and will include members from both Cabinets.

~~Adz:Right~~The fiscal situation was looked at in great detail, and it was agreed that all attempts be made to grow the economy at an acceptable rate, and that there be greater cooperation with regard to fiscal planning. The Meeting mandated both Ministries of Finance to coordinate their activities particularly with regard to the coordinating and scheduling of projects.

The Meeting covered a wide range of other issues including Tourism, Foreign Aid, National Associations and the Police. The Meeting looked at ways and means of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the police on both islands. The Minister of National Security, the Attorney General and the Premier are to meet shortly to look at specific matters that would enhance policing in the Federation.

The Meeting was frank and cordial with a strong determination to work to resolve problems and forge closer relationship between the people of St.

Kitts and Nevis.

The next joint meeting of the Cabinets is scheduled for February 2007 in Nevis.