Diaspora group drafts framework of action

A call for cohesiveness between political parties was made by committees representing the Diaspora, in a draft Framework of Action prepared for discussion at the just concluded Vincy Homecoming conference.{{more}}

This was just one of the many discussions held over the two days last week at the new public library in Kingstown, as part of the Vincy Homecoming Programme. The document consists of various reports made by committees set up to collect recommendations made by persons residing in the region ad internationally.

The submitted reports from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines were condensed into the draft, which focused on three main areas: social development, economic/ business development and governance.

The document also contains suggestions on how the various recommendations could be implemented.

The call for the end of the political divide, which all present agreed was huge, and detrimental to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, was listed under governance, section C. The document states that ‘In the quest for national development, all comments and statements that are anemic to unity and threaten the image of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and its development be condemned.’

The report also called for efforts to be made to create a favorable image with regard to the participation of Vincentians living overseas in the political processes here at home. It was suggested that this could be accomplished by implementing new laws and legislation that would allow input and discussion of all Vincentians at home and abroad.

Under social development, cultural exchanges between local schools and schools in the Diaspora as well an exchange in sports teams were encouraged.

Suggestions made include the twinning of schools in the Diaspora with those here at home, as well as the establishing of scholarship programmes in conjunction with the Diaspora aimed at assisting worthy locals.

The need for better use of Information Communication Technology in order to enhance business relations between St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the Diaspora was discussed as part of Economic and business development.

One suggestion made was the production and processing of local foods and fruits for overseas distribution, which will be promoted by members of the Diaspora.

A final Framework of Action is expected to be issued at a later date, with hopes that the recommendations and suggestions listed would be followed up and acted upon, by both sides as well as the other stakeholders involved. (JJ)