BRADES, Montserrat, June 30th, 2011 – Chief Minister, the Hon. Reuben T. Meade told members of the Legislative Council that the government was focused on building the economic infrastructure and not population growth.

The chief minister was answering a question from Opposition Member, the Hon. Donaldson Romeo who wanted to know what steps the Government were taking to increase the island’s population over the next 10 years.

Chief Minister Meade said he is of the belief that if Montserrat’s economy grows then the people will come rather than focus on increasing numbers but with no economy to sustain them.

The leader of Government said they are working to ensure that incentives are often for persons who wish to do business on island, including that of those from other Caribbean nations.

The official also told the Legislative Council that steps have been made to restructure the Montserrat Development Corporation to become a more integral part of business development here.

He mentioned the island’s staging of the ICT Roadshow in April 2010, which has seen local companies such as software development firm Lavabits step up to the plate and now in a position to offer services to the government, rather than having to source from companies abroad.

He also remarked that Montserratians need to take the initiative and start more ventures rather than sitting on the corner while foreigners are creating their own businesses.

“There needs to be a change in the mindset of our people,” the chief minister stated during Wednesday’s sitting. “The days of handouts are finished. We are working with DFID and our other aid partners to grow this economy.”

*************************
DISCLAIMER

This article was posted in its entirety as received by SKNVibes.com. This media house does not  correct any spelling or grammatical error within press releases and commentaries. The views expressed therein are not necessarily those of SKNVibes.com, its sponsors or advertisers.