Anguilla was among a number of regional islands which participated in a two-day Media Clinic in preparation f.or the launch of the Economic Affairs Council (EAC). Representing Anguilla were Mr Keithstone Greaves of Radio Anguilla and Ms Esther Ward of The Anguillian newspaper. The event, for Media Practitioners from the OECS member states, was held in St Lucia on June 10 and 11.
The Media Practioners were exposed to many presentations and discussions. Among the presentations was one by Dr. Didacus Jules, the newly-appointed Director General of the OECS, who highlighted the key priorities needed for the full implementation of regional integration. These included institutions that are needed to deepen, widen and sustain the integration movement; the facilitation of free movement, growth and development of people, goods, services and capital, as well as, assuring security and the well-being of citizens.
Other presentations included country status reports from OECS media personnel as to how their states have, so far, achieved some areas of the integration process.
The Economic Affairs Council was officially launched on Friday, June 13. Among other matters, it will be responsible for ensuring that the region benefits from the OECS Economic Union through such rights as the free movement of persons, goods and services.
The Council will comprise Government Ministers from the OECS member states. As an Associated Member of the OECS, Anguilla has not signed on to the Treaty of Basseterre and is currently not part of the Economic Affairs Council.
