Thompson updates Vincentian Diaspora on Argyle International Airport developments

Director of Special Projects in the Office of the Prime Minister and former Minister of Telecommunications Dr Jerrol Thompson addressed the Vincentian Diaspora on the developments of Argyle International Airport (AIA) at the Hilltop Community Centre in High Wycombe.{{more}}

The event was organised by the High Commission for St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) in London, in partnership with the Wycombe Multicultural Organisation (WMCO).

Invited guests included Nationals, Chairs of the various SVG National Associations in the UK and friends of SVG.

Master of Ceremony was Doris Charles – Minister Counsellor at the SVG High Commission, with Cenio Lewis, High Commissioner for SVG to the UK, providing the opening address and closing statements, with brief remarks by Dr Christopher Stange, Hon. Consul for SVG to Northern Ireland and Levi Odoe, Hon. Consul for SVG to Nigeria.

Thompson explained to the audience the government’s commitment in building a post-colonial, modern economy on a national, regional and international level, with Argyle International Airport being a truly historical landmark capital project.

The building of the terminal by the Overseas Engineering and Construction Company is well underway, with the completion date, including the 3 km runway, to be finished late 2013, with full operation of the airport scheduled for early 2014.

Thompson stressed the importance of having AIA in boosting the economy through tourism, attracting investment, creating jobs and service contracts, diversifying our agricultural sector and creating lower cost seamless travel for all visitors, including Vincentians, by having direct routes to St Vincent.

He stressed Argyle International Airport is for the people, something to be proud of and endorsed, no matter what your political views. Many Vincentians at home and abroad have asked how they may become involved in such a vital development project. There is an established AIA Contributory Fund already at the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines – Account Number 200884. If paying by cheque or money order, ensure it is marked AIA Contributory Fund. Alternatively, you will be able to make a contribution online, safely and securely on www.svgiadc.com.

The programme included the national anthem, opening prayer, videos of Argyle International Airport, rendition by Vibert Cornwall, and a Question and Answer session with Dr Thompson, followed by food and beverages.