Minister of Tourism Saboto Caesar has said that for 2012 it is his prayer that everyone in the tourism sector will ensure that their work will be an expression of goodwill and dedication to developing the country’s tourism product.{{more}}

“In so doing, we ought to continue to show in our vocation that this very important industry holds a special place in our hearts and deserves every outward expression of love,” the Tourism Minister related in his New Year’s message.

He further noted that 2011 was indeed a trying and challenging year for the people of the St Vincent and the Grenadines and the rest of the Caribbean region.

“As a nation we will continue to manage our resources prudently, so as to ensure that we are well placed to benefit from the global recovery.

“There is almost no better way to do this than to stand united behind the cause of transforming our nation into a full-fledged productive based economy in which tourism and industry will continue to play a pivotal role,” Caesar further stated.

Caesar encouraged Vincentians that as ambassadors of our country they should always take pride in our island and make plans to go the extra mile in our commitment to nation building.

“Our destination is unlike any other. We have numerous attributes that set us apart from our competitors in the tourism marketplace. Let us all work together in taking Tourism to the next level in 2012,” the Minister added.

With the completion of the Argyle International Airport Development Project very close on the horizon, Caesar noted that there really is no better time than now for the people of SVG to redouble their thrust towards investment in the tourism sector.

“The development of a comprehensive Community Tourism Plan that outlines and redistributes important roles within the sector to our villages and towns will occupy the Ministry of Tourism’s timetable in 2012. We anticipate engaging every single citizen in this noble exercise.

“I congratulate and thank sincerely all the people who work in the tourism industry. Without your hard work and dedication to delivering excellent service, we would not be able to achieve the level of success and international recognition that St Vincent and the Grenadines consistently continues to receive.

“We’re all in this together,” he said, adding that there’s something for everyone to do in support of tourism.

“Your participation is always critical to shaping the experience that this destination has to offer,” Caesar finally stated.

It was also revealed that there are a number of upcoming projects for the New Year. These include commencement of the construction of the Maritime and Hospitality Institute at Diamond, the completion of the Access Road Project at Trinity Falls and Vermont, the rehabilitation of Fort Murray, Union Island, the enhancement of Fort Charlotte and the Botanical Gardens, and the commencement of the Signage Project.