The declaration of three new categories of standards from the Bureau of Standards now brings the number of national standards in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) to over 100.

The Bureau said in a release that the three new categories of standards are for sites and attractions, spa and wellness, and vending of tourism craft and merchandise and follows a collective effort among stakeholders within the Tourism and hospitality sector and the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority.

The standards were launched at a ceremony at the Sunset Shores Hotel on Tuesday, November 15, 2022.

Speaking at the launch, Executive Director of the SVG Bureau of Standards, Ezra Ledger said the new standards have been declared national documents.

He said it is the hope of the Bureau that various entities and organisations will use the standards as benchmarks to improve the quality of life for Vincentians and the tourism experience.

Ledger expressed pride and delight that the number of standards declared has reached in excess of 100.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation Sustainable Development and Culture, Dr. Resa Noel-McBarnett commended the National Technical
Committee for the development of these new standards which she said showcases an all inclusive approach, through the contribution of relevant stakeholders.

The PS added that the Ministry of Tourism continues to be steadfast in its commitment to improving the tourism sector and encouraged all owners and managers within the industry to get on board and register to obtain their license in their respective fields.

And, the chairperson of the National Standards Council (NSC), Dr. Jean Saville Cummings stressed that the targeted engagement of stakeholders is essential in governing regulations and standards.

Cummings cited the cruise arrival statistics which is showing an upward trend noting that it is an important milestone in the country’s post COVID-19 and Volcanic recovery.

She also emphasised that standards are of importance even more so, due to the increased airlift and expansion of hotel capacity locally.

Director of the National Parks, Rivers and Beaches Authority, Andrew Lockhart emphasized that it is important to employ these standards in the various sectors of tourism ensuring that “St. Vincent and the Grenadines remains at the forefront of an emerging Tourism destination.”

Members of the National Technical Committee, were recognised for their commitment and contribution to this achievement and were given tokens of appreciation from the SVG Bureau of Standards, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Tourism Authority.

The standards are in line with requirements of the International Organisation for Standardisation.
(API)