 |
| St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas and Nevis' Premier Hon. Joseph Parry along with Nevis Island Administration members at Friday's Meeting |
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, OCTOBER 15TH 2006 - 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 during Friday's meeting of the Federal Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Cabinet of the Nevis Island Administration.
A joint communiqué issued after the meeting held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort said a working group was established to look at the way forward.
Both Cabinets 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 Federal Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Hon. Dennis Merchant and will include members from both Cabinets.
"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," said the communiqué.
The Meeting also 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.
~~Adz:Right~~The Minister of National Security, Hon. Dwyer Astaphan; Attorney General, Hon. Dennis Merchant and the Premier of Nevis, Hon. Joseph Parry 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.
