Ian Naismith (second from left) and his wife Renee Digiulio tells Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Sam Condor (third in photo) and Minister of Health Hon. Rupert Herbert about plans to build a Youth Complex.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Youth Hon. Sam Condor headed the government delegation, which included Ministers Rupert Herbert and Richard Skerritt as well as Permanent Secretary Lloyd Lazar and Youth Director Geoffrey Hanley, while John Toti represented the Marriott. The meeting was convened on Tuesday to review a project conceputalized by Ian Naismith and Renee DiGiulio of the NIBF.

Pointing to the closure of the sugar industry, Naismith echoed government's stance that training locals, particularly young people, in various areas is key to ensuring a smoother economic and social transition away from the sugar.

He highlighted the 10-year relationship his Chicago-based foundation has had with St. Kitts and Nevis, primarily by sponsoring the Youth Department's Summer Residential Camp, and unveiled a structure which after construction would permanently house the camp and be used for miscellaneous entertainment, sporting and educational activities.

Minister of State for Tourism Hon. Richard Skerritt and (St. Kitts) Marriott's General Manager John Toti listen intently at the meeting held at the Marriott on Tuesday.

"We're in the seventh year of the camp and we're still borrowing everything," Naismith said, also alluding to Marriott's desire to have more extensive training done for residents. "We need a facility, but you can't build a facility to house 200 kids, two weeks out of a year, its not economically feasible," he stressed, outlining the proposed multipurpose use of the complex.

These include hosting the aforementioned youth camp and other camping activities; a conference facility; entertainment venue; as well as a sporting complex. Training in hotel service and other related activities would also take place at the complex.

Minister Condor saluted the NIBF for its contribution to the island and young people over the years and hailed this proposal as a further demonstration of their commitment. He explained that people empowerment is among the bedrock policies of his government and enthusiastically welcomed the initiative.

Minister Skerritt expressed similar sentiments and noted that the public and private sector alike are concerned with youth development. Skerritt added that forming partnerships with interested agencies wouldn't be too difficult.

Mr. Toti, Marriott's general manager, stated that his company is always willing to partner with the tourism sector and made a pledge to assist where possible.

Mr. Naismith was encouraged to develop a formal proposal, which can be submitted to Cabinet for consideration. The deputy prime minister said such a project - once formally presented with in depth details including financing - would be within the top tier of priorities for government.