NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 21, 2021) – – Twenty public servants at the mid-level management level in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) are being commended for completing a five-week Supervisory Management Training Course organised by the Ministry of Human Resources.
At a closing ceremony at the Nevis Disaster Management Department conference room on Tuesday, April 20, Hon. Mark Brantley, Premier and Minister of Human Resources in the NIA, congratulated the public servants on completing the training. He encouraged them to apply what they had learned as they continue to serve the public.
“I want to congratulate all of you on this achievement on satisfying the rigorous work and exams that you would have had over the past several weeks. The idea behind this training is to seek to continue to retool and equip ourselves to offer the best possible service to the members of the public whom we serve.
“Please go back to your respective departments and apply what you have learned. This was not just an academic exercise. This is intended to provide you with better tools and to sharpen the tools you already have so when you go back, those whom you work with can have the benefit of this training as well and so I encourage you, I thank you, I congratulate you and I wish you all the very best going forward,” he said.
The Premier reminded the government employees that all members of the civil service, himself included, serve the public and therefore they have a responsibility to ensure that the public has a good experience whenever they interact with public servants.
“There’s a reason why this is called public service, that is, because we serve the public, and it really warms my heart when members of the public call me or comment favorably and say what a wonderful experience they would have had interacting with our public servants.
“Equally it bothers me and hurts me deeply when they say they had a terrible experience with our public servants,” he said.
The Premier counseled the participants to apply the leadership tools and techniques learned during the course to better manage the persons under their supervision.
Mr. Pearlievan Wilkin, educator and former senior civil servant, facilitated the course which began March 16, 2021. He described the training as a worthwhile initiative and expressed satisfaction with the level of competence the group had shown during the course.
“From the discussions we had they gained a lot, because they were able to take certain concepts and discuss them in forums and lead groups.
“They did well. A lot of the concepts were new to them and I am pleased that they learned, and that they demonstrated camaraderie and fellowship. Among them you had different levels of ability but I am satisfied they have the potential,” he said.
The participants attended two full days of training each week. Areas covered included supervisory management, leadership qualities, the difference between leaders and managers, leadership styles, leadership behaviors, directing and coaching, and the systems approach to management theory.
At the end of the training the participants sat an exam that Mr. Wilkin said he would normally give to persons taking the course at the University of the West Indies.
He said more than 85 percent of the group received passing grades.
Mrs. Shanola Murrey-Gill, Training Officer in the NIA Ministry of Human Resources also commended the participants.
“You have done a very good job. Throughout the duration of the course I have taken some time to observe your general behavior, your attendance, your attentiveness, your willingness to share your experience and your concerns, your effort to complete your final test.
“You have certainly demonstrated some key leadership qualities and I commend you,” she said.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 20, 2021) – – Counselors, Child Protection and Probation Officers and school Guidance Counselors in Nevis are now better equipped to treat young persons who abuse Cannabis.
The counselors attended a one-day training session on an international application- Cannabis Youth Treatment Programme- on April 19, 2021 at the Jessups Community Centre.
The training session, organized by the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention, is designed to help train substance abuse counselors and other counselors to conduct a brief five-session intervention for adolescents with Cannabis use disorders.
Ms. Zahnela Claxton, Principal Education Officer in the Department of Education in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), said with the prevalence of students who use and or abuse marijuana, the training was very timely and necessary.
“This training will no doubt provide our counselors with additional tools which they will surely find useful. Is it necessary? Yes. Will it be useful? Yes. Is it timely? A resounding yes.
“In an age where Edibles and smoking are the norm for our young people it is imperative that we provide the necessary support for them. In some of the instances it is beyond what is happening in the schools and the community. In some instances it is something that that is encouraged at home.
“We know the effects [of marijuana use] on the development of our children and teens. In our schools we often see evidence of Cannabis abuse. In light of this, on behalf of the Ministry and Department of Education, I applaud the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention for this initiative. I hope you [participants] will be able to put what is learned into practice,” she said during the opening ceremony.
Mrs. Karimu Byron Caines, Director of the National Council on Drug Abuse Prevention Secretariat, highlighted that the training was being offered by the Ministry of National Security as part of its responsibility to ensure that effective prevention, treatment and other intervention programmes, education, and training are made available to the persons in the Federation.
She explained that the counselors would be trained in effective applications of brief intervention approaches to the treatment of adolescents affected by cannabis abuse.
“This Cannabis Youth Treatment combines two sessions of Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), and three sessions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a group format.
“So this is a training a tool that has been used across the Organisation of American States hemisphere and they have found it to be effective. So we are pleased to be sharing the material. The manuals will act as a guide as they go back to their facilities and institutions to implement this training session.
“We all know and are aware of the effects of marijuana, especially on our youths. We’ve heard it especially in our schools where students are sometimes coming to school high, causing some behavioral problems. We are seeing challenges with the academic performance and so we are pleased to be offering you the frontline counselors hands on material to an effective program,” she said.
The session was facilitated by Ms. Zara Jacobs a counselor in the Ministry of Community Development.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 19, 2021) — The Ministry of Tourism in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) launched its Nevis Garden Competition on April 16, 2021, at the Nevisian Heritage Village in Gingerland, as part of activities for Exposition Nevis 2021, an annual tourism awareness campaign with the theme “Fostering Domestic Tourism.”
Mr. John Hanley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism who officially launched the contest, noted that the competition was being held in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, adding that gardens are important for the island’s tourism and food security thrust.
“Our gardens form an important part of Nevis’ tourism product. Gardens adorn our homes, our villas, hotels, restaurants and businesses; provide us with aromatic teas and medicinal plants; and our back yard gardens are a critical component of our thrust towards food security. For this reason, we have included the garden competition as part of our 2021 Exposition Nevis calendar of activities,” he said.
Mr. Hanley urged persons to enter the contest to assist with the island’s beautification and the NIA’s food security agenda.
“I urge all gardening enthusiasts on the island of Nevis to participate so that you could position yourselves not only to beautify your surroundings but also improve our island’s food security agenda, and at the same time win some very attractive prizes which have been made possible by our very kind cooperate sponsors,” he said.
The permanent secretary acknowledged that the launch of the contest was being held at one of the best landscaped tourism sites managed by the Ministry of Tourism.
He said that it had been gaining traction in recent months as a mecca for weddings, celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, and other family milestones; and thanked all those responsible for the upkeep of the Nevisian Heritage Village.
Mr. Hanley also used the opportunity to thank Ms. Vanessa Webbe, Tourism Education Officer, and the Community Tourism team leader for the hard work they did in organising the contest.
He also thanked the Department and Ministry of Agriculture for the guidance extended to the Ministry of Tourism and their assistance with the logistics required to plan and execute the competition.
Mr. Huey Sargeant, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture stated that they were pleased to partner with the Ministry of Tourism. He announced measures the Department of Agriculture plans to put in place for persons wishing to participate in the contest.
“We are offering during the month of May some specials from our shade house or green house and our Propagation Unit at Prosect for persons who are interested in participating in this competition, that they can have their seedlings or plants at special rates from the Department of Agriculture,” he said.
The contest has two segments – one for food-bearing plants and florals. The Agriculture Permanent Secretary spoke of the benefits of gardening.
“When you garden you ensure food security and we encourage that. We also recognise that the floral aspect is part of our health as well because that emotional part of our being…they are quite important overall.
“So we have health on the physical side when we do food security and we have health on the emotional side because obviously, we want to have that mental health…I must also talk about physical aspects of gardening. You do get a lot of exercise when you tend to your gardens on a regular basis, so we have an overall holistic development and, in that vein, I encourage as many persons to participate and register to take part in this competition,” he said.
]]>I extend warm Nevisian greetings to my fellow Nevisians and visitors alike.
The Ministry of Tourism, Nevis begins its annual month of tourism awareness activities, which we call Exposition Nevis. Our month of activities is scheduled to run from April 18th – May 31st, 2021.
The purpose of Exposition Nevis is to sensitize the general public about the role and purpose of the Ministry of Tourism and by extension, the critical impact that the tourism industry has on the economy of Nevis.
Even as we celebrate the 5th annual edition of Exposition Nevis, we do so against the backdrop of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic which has infected over 138 million persons and caused almost 3 million deaths worldwide.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourism arrivals saw a significant decline of 74 percent during 2020, setting us back more than 30 years in terms of the global levels of visitor arrivals. As a consequence, many destinations have had no recourse but to resort to domestic tourism as a lifeline for their struggling tourism economies.
Local tourism enterprises and home-grown tourism experiences that have hitherto been largely under-utilized have now become the bread and butter of our struggling economy. It is in this context that the Ministry of Tourism has selected the theme ‘Fostering Domestic Tourism’ as the focus of its 2021 Exposition Nevis celebrations.
The calendar of events for Exposition Nevis 2021 encompasses a wide variety of experiences intended to encourage locals and visitors alike to learn about, appreciate and engage in the magnificent tourism product offerings here on island, including excursions, festivals, heritage experiences and culinary engagements.
Exposition Nevis seeks to actively encourage support among the local populace for local tourism businesses and is intended to promote entrepreneurship and capacity building in the face of one of the most significant crises to face our tourism industry in decades.
Two local businesses, Nevis Equestrian Centre and Hills and Valleys Tours have consented to offer reduced prices for locals wishing to experience their tours. Several of our fine Nevis hotels are also currently offering special staycation rates for locals to enjoy a premium vacation right here on island, as many Nevisians are unable to travel overseas to their usual vacation spots.
To engage our children, our calendar of events includes a call-in tourism quiz on VON Radio, as well as an essay competition based on our domestic tourism theme, for our primary and secondary school students.
For the general public there will be the launch of the 2021 Nevis Garden Competition and our annual open day at the Nevisian Heritage Village featuring our hallmark baking of bread in the traditional oven and cultural food demonstrations. We will be hosting the first ever night market at the Artisan Village as well as a virtual Nevis Experiences culinary tour among other things.
As per usual the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the relevant ministries and departments, will continue to lend its support to the Jessups Seafood Fiesta and the New River Farmers Association Open Day, two events which have gained recognition over time as fine exemplars of community-based tourism.
A two-day entrepreneurship workshop will be hosted for small and medium tourism enterprises, in our bid to develop the capacity and local resilience, which are so necessary in this COVID era. Our health is vital during this pandemic and there is also huge potential in the health tourism business. As such, we will also collaborate with the Health Promotion Unit to host a ‘soco-cize’ session at the Artisan Village as well as an exercise activity on the Pinneys Beach.
In addition, during our month of activities, we will also recognize Earth Day by planting trees at Pinneys Park which will shortly become a vital asset in our domestic tourism inventory.
I must, at this junction, commend the hardworking staff at the Ministry of Tourism for their creativity and ingenuity in putting together this calendar of events. We urge every resident of Nevis to engage in and lend robust support to our local tourism enterprises and activities.
Projections are that it could take at least two years for the tourism industry to return to pre-COVID levels. Until then, it is imperative that we fully embrace and promote the development of domestic tourism and take advantage of the vast potential of our own local market on both sides of the channel, especially right here on Nevis. Domestic tourism is indeed the lifeline for our economic survival in the face of unprecedented challenges.
It would be remiss of me to pass up the opportunity for me to encourage all and singular to avail themselves of the opportunity to get vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus to ensure that we are in a position to fully open our borders and return our tourism industry to a semblance of normalcy in the shortest possible time.
It gives me great pleasure as Premier and Minister responsible for Tourism in the Nevis Island Administration to declare officially open Exposition Nevis 2021. Thank you and may Jehovah guide and bless us all.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS April 14, 2021 (NIA)– – The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) will be undertaking remedial work on defective soak aways at 31 homes in the Cherry Gardens Housing Development in Prospect, Nevis.
Hon. Alexis Jeffers, Deputy Premier and Minister of Housing in the NIA, said the residences with soak away issues are located in the first set of houses constructed between 2008 and 2013.
“It must be noted that the first phase of Cherry Gardens was undertaken during the years 2008 and 2013.
“We realized that there were many deficiencies that were discovered because of the rush to complete the Cherry Garden Housing Development. These deficiencies were realized very early once we would have gotten into government.
“Now the complaints that we’re dealing with are in the first phase because of the rush to completion and not adhering to the basic steps which must be taken when constructing a soak away,” he said.
He said the government had received numerous complaints from homeowners about drainage issues, backed up plumbing, stagnant water in yards and foul smells coming from the soak away areas.
Ready Realty Limited was contracted to carry out an assessment of the problem and recently submitted a report to the NIA detailing the work necessary to fix the widespread issue.
Mr. Jeffers said the report indicated that the soak aways had not been properly constructed to begin with and would have to be redone.
The NIA through the Nevis Housing and Land Development Corporation (NHLDC) has already replaced eight soak aways.
Due to financial constraints at the NHLDC, the Ministry of Public Works will undertake replacing the remaining faulty soak aways.
Minister Jeffers pointed out that this is a huge project, one that will cost the government over $217,000 in the first instance, as it is anticipated that more homes may need similar repairs in the near future.
He explained that the NHLDC is relieved of liability with respect to government housing 6 weeks after turning over the keys and homeowners then become responsible for any repairs to the houses and property.
The Minister said however because the NIA remains committed to ensuring proper housing for the people of Nevis, the Cabinet took the decision to provide this assistance at no cost to the homeowners.
“Each soak away will cost us in excess of $7000 to repair, give or take, because it can run up to as much as $10,000.
“It has to be a wholesome approach so as to make sure that the soak aways are properly done and the plumbing is properly done.
“It’s the only way to ensure that the lower income bracket that we are catering for do not have to undertake these exorbitant expenses, especially at this time,” he said.
Work to remedy the defective soak aways in the Cherry Gardens Housing Development is slated to begin within the next two weeks.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 13, 2021) – – The Nevis Island Administration has been given the green light to host Culturama 47.
Mr. Antonio “Abonaty” Liburd, Executive Director at the Culturama Secretariat said following several consultations with the Nevis COVID-19 Task Force and Mr. Hilroy Brandy, Commissioner of Police, approval was given on April 12 to host a contracted version of the annual summer festival.
“A number of persons have been calling the Festival Secretariat asking about the staging of Culturama 47. You know because of COVID-19 last year Culturama 46 had to be cancelled, and so early in January we decided that this year we would want to have a festival of some sort.
“The good news is yes, Culturama 47 will be staged this year from July 27 until August 03.
“We would have gotten that green light on Monday and so now we are ready to begin to market and sensitize persons that we will be having a Culturama of some sort in 2021,” he said.
Mr. Liburd explained that while there would be several of the traditional activities, venues have been changed and the number of patrons allowed to attend will be limited. He outlined how the local public in St. Kitts and Nevis and persons overseas can still participate in the festival.
“What we’ll be offering this year however is having the events streamed online, pay per view, so you can enjoy the Culturama festival from the comfort of your home because we want all and sundry to enjoy the Culturama Festival.”
He stressed that all events would be hosted in a COVID-19 compliant environment and the Committee will be adhering to all of the established protocols.
Some of the events for Culturama 47 include the Senior Calypso Monarch Competition, Soca Monarch Competition, Mr. Kool and Miss Culture Swimwear.
In the absence of street activities such as J’ouvert and Parade Day, Mr. Liburd said the Secretariat will host a virtual “Jam where you are J’ouvert” on August Monday.
No fetes will be permitted during the Festival.
The Director said more details about the activities for Culturama 47 will be rolled out in the coming days.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 06, 2021) – Premier of Nevis, Hon. Mark Brantley, Minister of Finance in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has hailed Bank of Nevis Limited opening a branch in St. Kitts on April 06, 2021 as an historic event.
“Today was an historic day for the island of Nevis as our premier indigenous bank, The Bank of Nevis Limited, formally opened its doors in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
“I congratulate the Board of Directors, the management and staff for continuing to support the vision of the bank’s Founding Father, Sir Simeon Daniel, our beloved National Hero,” he said.
Speaking at the opening ceremony for the newest BON branch, the Premier gave a brief historical background of the financial institution, informing that 35 years ago, Sir Simeon Daniel, a man from Barnes Ghaut, Nevis, rallied nine of his friends to join him to invest in the creation of the Bank.
Mr. Brantley emphasized that development in either Nevis or St. Kitts means development nationally. He said BON can now better serve and grow its clientele on the sister isle.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, April 06, 2021 (Press Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister) – Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris has hailed the opening of the Bank of Nevis Limited branch in St. Kitts as a testament to the strong and close relationship that now exists between the Federal Cabinet and the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), and between the peoples of both islands.
Prime Minister Harris made this remark when he addressed the opening ceremony of the bank’s new branch, located at Fort Street, Basseterre, on Tuesday, April 06, 2021.
“The opening of this St. Kitts Branch by the Bank of Nevis (BON) also reflects the continuing close, strong relationship between our two islands and of course it demonstrates what can be achieved when we work closely together,” said Prime Minister Harris, who is also Minister of Finance in the Federal Cabinet.
Tuesday morning’s ceremony was also attended by the Premier of Nevis, the Honourable Mark Brantley, Lady Sheila Daniel, wife of the late Right Excellent Dr. Sir Simeon Daniel, and banking executives from both St. Kitts and Nevis.
Prime Minister Harris further noted that the Board and Management of the Bank of Nevis have determined that this is a good juncture to expand its footprint for the benefit of the people of St. Kitts.
“This provides an opportunity for the bank to grow stronger and influence the development trajectory of the Federation as a whole,” Dr. Harris added.
Meanwhile, Premier Brantley said the permanent presence of a major business headquartered in Nevis on the island of St. Kitts represents a stark improvement in the relationship between the islands.
He said, “When we look at the business community in this country, the people of Nevis are accustomed to TDC which has come there from here [St. Kitts]; they’re accustomed to Horsford which has come there from here; they are accustomed of course to Delisle Walwyn which has come there from here and they are accustomed to RAMS which has come there from here. Well today, the Bank of Nevis is coming from there to here and I think that that is a welcomed development, and it shows how inextricably bound up these two islands have become. In terms of family ties, we know that those have always existed but now in terms of business and commerce the two islands are certainly moving forward together as one.”
The Bank of Nevis acquired the assets and liabilities of the Royal Bank of Canada (St. Kitts) effective April 01, 2021.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (April 06, 2021) – – Six nationals and residents have been tipped by MSR Media producer Mr. Philippe Martinez and his team for speaking roles in upcoming movies to be filmed on Nevis.
Mr. Martinez recently visited the MSR Media Acting Academy, which was launched in Nevis late February, and said he was impressed with how well the aspiring actors are progressing.
“We had each of the students perform a short scene and frankly, considering the Academy only opened two weeks ago…the surprise was we saw natural [talent] and people with real personalities, and none of them were bad.
“Some are at different levels, and have different strengths, but you can see what you can do with it.
“I can tell you for sure that with a lot of work and training we’re going to take six speaking parts from those guys. We walked away knowing we would get six speaking parts out of those auditions, which is fantastic,” he said in an interview with the Department of Information while at the Indian Summer Restaurant.
The group of about 20 locals and residents garnered critical feedback during the recent interactive session with Mr. Martinez, actor Mr. Jeff Fahey, and Mr. Tom Peyton, who will direct ‘Assailant’, MSR’s next film on the island.
The film professionals advised the acting students to be true to themselves and that their differences are their best asset.
“The reason we chose them is because we thought they had something different,” Mr. Martinez noted.
Trained actor Winston Crooke of Nevis manages the Acting Academy and trains the aspiring actors during classes held regularly at the Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC).
He congratulated those selected to make their acting debut in upcoming movies.
“We’ve got a grand opportunity put in our laps with the creation of a film industry on Nevis.
“The Acting Academy is a great leap forward for the art form. We are taking some very raw talent and working with them and they have responded well, so much kudos to the actors who have applied themselves.
“Congrats to all those getting the opportunity to strut their stuff for the first time on camera. This is absolutely huge,” he said.
Mr. Crooke commended MSR Media for its role in the development of a film industry in Nevis and allowing locals to benefit through the Acting Academy.
“We are creating a bed of talent on the acting side and so when people want to make movies here there is already a pool of talent to pick from,” he said.
He is hopeful that the Academy can be expanded in the future to include technical training for those who wish to be behind the camera.
MSR Media recently wrapped filming the romantic comedy “One Year Off” on the island and is preparing to begin shooting its second movie, the thriller “Assailant” mid-April.
MSR Media intends to film six movies on Nevis over the next 12 months, after initially signing a two-film production deal with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) in January 2021.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 31, 2021) — Women on Nevis are beginning to see the merit in doing skills. That view was expressed by Hon. Hazel Brandy-Williams, Junior Minister of Health and Gender Affairs in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) on the second day of a Plumbing Workshop for Women from March 29 to 31, 2021, hosted by the Department of Gender Affairs.
The Junior Minister responsible for Gender Affairs was at the time looking on at the session at the Jessups Community Centre facilitated by Mr. Thomas Dore on March 30, 2021, when she spoke to the Department of Information. The workshop is part of the department’s activities for International Women’s Month.
“From the very onset that they put out advertisement for this workshop it was oversubscribed. Sixty persons have registered for his very important workshop…
“It means then, that our women have now started to think and to see the merit of doing skills becoming a part of the non-traditional skill-set which has been for all these years predominantly men dominated, and so I want to applaud the women who would have come forward to this very important skills training, that of plumbing,” she said.
Due to the COVID-19 protocols, the group was split in two sections according to their location in proximity to the venues – the Jessups Community Centre and the Pond Hill Community Centre. The sessions are being conducted simultaneously with facilitator Pastor Theophilus Kelly at Pond Hill.
The minister stated that there are other areas of interest by women for which the department plans to provide training this year.
“There has been an interest shown in basic mechanic as well as painting. So I am certain that throughout this year these other skill-sets for women will be put on, so that more and more women could be exposed to the non-traditional skills that were predominantly male dominated,” she said.
The Gender Affairs Minister added that women on Nevis are retooling themselves for the new normal, and getting themselves equipped for other jobs, in addition to want they have to subsidise their livelihood.
Mrs. Brandy-Williams commended the organizers from the Department for putting the workshops together and for carrying out the needs assessment to effectively come up with what she referred to as important skills workshops, to reequip women on Nevis at a time when some would have lost their jobs due to the COVID pandemic.
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NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 30, 2021) – – Hon. Alexis Jeffers, Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Lands in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), is encouraging persons to regularize their status with respect to any government land they currently occupy.
Hon. Jeffers addressed the matter during a statement at the most recent sitting of the Nevis island Assembly.
“I want to encourage the entire island of Nevis, anyone who currently occupies government land and has no documents for those lands to come in to the Nevis Housing and Land Development Corporation (NHLDC), let us get you regularized so you have that tenancy.
“Come in to the Corporation or you can go to the Department of Agriculture where they rent crown lands…
“Whether you’re in Maddens, whether you’re in Potworks, whether you’re in Cades Bay- wherever you are on the island, if you are there I’m asking you to come and regularize your status,” he said.
He asserted that the NIA has simplified the process of acquiring government land on Nevis. Persons wishing to rent Crown land have to fill out an application at the Department of Agriculture and once the application is approved, terms and conditions will be determined.
The leasing and purchasing of government land is done through the NHLDC.
“We have made the process as easy as one, two, three for the citizens of this island to gain access to the lands that we call the people’s land.
“You can come in and buy the land and you get a certificate of title and then you’re on your merry way. You wave your papers through Charlestown as they,” the minister said.
Mr. Jeffers admonished Nevisians not to occupy government land without proper authorization through documentation.
“We [the NIA] are responsible for the patrimony of the people of this country, we are responsible for the management of our land resources…and we will do so within the law.
“The lands are available to us. Some may say it’s the people’s land but because it’s the people’s land it doesn’t mean that we get up one morning and say ‘I see an acre of land out there and I gone on it’.
“No! There is right way and a wrong way and if we are to live as decent, law-abiding citizens on this island we should always choose the right way because it’s the only way to go. We will encourage all of our young men and women to follow the rules as to what is required of you,” he stated.
The Minister of Lands emphasized that having proper documentation to prove legal access to government land will prevent any conflict between persons and the government or between individuals.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 25, 2021) – – Hon. Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis continues to go without a salary, one year after foregoing his monthly pay in a show of solidarity with Nevisians who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Premier, who holds the Finance portfolio in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), gave up 100 percent of his salary, including allowances, in March 2020, with the onset of the pandemic in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
He spoke on the issue at his monthly press conference on March 24, 2021.
“In relation to me and salary, it’s now been over a year I have not collected a salary.
“I’ve still not collected a salary because I said that I believe that as Premier of Nevis I have to continue to show some solidarity with our people.
“I recognize that our people are still struggling and while this is a symbolic gesture I think it’s an important symbolic gesture, so my salary is still in abeyance,” he said.
Mr. Brantley made it clear that he has no intention of collecting any lump sum of back pay in the future.
He also indicated he was not in a position to say when he would resume getting paid as the island and wider Federation continues to struggle financially from the economic fallout caused by the pandemic.
“By abeyance I don’t mean I’m stockpiling it to collect it all at once- it’s gone. I’m not collecting it. I did say I would not collect it until we could say that this pandemic was behind us. So I’m hopeful that we can say that soon, but until then, the position remains the same.
“It’s certainly something to which I am entitled but something which I decided to forego at this time, over this period, because I think there’s real difficulty in the community.
“As Premier and Minister of Finance I can tell you there’s real difficulty in terms of government finances, and so I think that leadership must lead and that is what I am seeking to do,” he stated.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 24, 2021) – – The efforts of the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) to launch a film industry on Nevis continues to pay dividends as MSR Media has announced April 15, 2021 as the start date to begin filming a second successive movie on the island.
Premier Hon. Mark Brantley, Minister of Tourism and Foreign Investment in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) welcomed the news.
“I am excited that MSR Media has completed its first film here on Nevis and is due to start its second film shortly. This is consistent with the commitment made by MSR Media to my government as we work together to diversify the Nevis economy and create a film industry for the island of Nevis and the wider Federation,” he said during an interview with the Department of Information on March 24, 2021.
Mr. Brantley, who is the Minister of Finance in the NIA, highlighted the economic boost to St. Kitts and Nevis and the transfer of skills for locals resulting from the government’s partnership with MR Media.
“I am also delighted that scenes for this movie will be shot on our sister island of St. Kitts so that our brothers and sisters on St Kitts can be a part of this incredible new industry, and witness first-hand the benefits to be derived from the film industry.
“This is a manifestation of the vision of this CCM-led government and I am delighted to spearhead this effort as Premier of our beloved Nevis,” he said.
According to Mr. Philippe Martinez, MSR Media producer and director, the UK-based company is wrapping up filming “One Year Off”, on Friday, March 26, 2021.
“This movie finishes on Friday and on April 15 we are starting to produce a new movie with Tom Paton.
“He is going to direct the movie “Assailant” which is a thriller,” he revealed at a media briefing on March 21, 2021.
Mr. Martinez told the Department of Information he is eager for cameras to roll on the second movie the company is filming on Nevis.
“I am very excited about “Assailant”, MSR Media’s next production.
“Tom Paton is a young, talented British director who has created a very suspenseful thriller, taking advantage of all of the natural cinematic beauty of Nevis,” he said.
As part of the NIA’s progressive agenda to diversify the Nevis economy in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government entered into a partnership with MSR Media in January 2021 for an initial two-movie production deal.
Soon after the cast and crew of the comedy “One Year Off” began filming on the island, Mr. Martinez announced that MSR Media would be filming a total of six movies on Nevis over the next year.
“So our plan is to make six movies. Actually I believe it has already been discussed with the government [NIA]…
“We only have one real problem, which is very challenging for a producer, the actors don’t want to leave [Nevis]; they want to stay here.
“We love it here, and that’s because you have made us feel very welcome,” he said.
“One Year Off”, the first movie to be produced entirely on Nevis was filmed at various locations on the island including Chrishi Beach Club, Golden Rock Inn, and the world renowned Sunshine’s Beach Bar and Grill on Pinneys Beach.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 23, 2021) — The Ministry of Agriculture in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) will host Agrofest, an all-day event highlighting local farmers and their produce on March 26, 2021, at the Villa Grounds in Charlestown, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Mr. Huey Sargeant, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture during a visit to the venue on March 19, 2021, noted that the event with the theme “Eat locally; boost Immunity” which replaces the annual Agriculture Open Day, will be streamlined in keeping with the COVID-19 protocols.
“We understand that we are in the midst of the COVID pandemic and there are certain protocols that we have had to observe and the authorities which is the police of St. Kitts and Nevis [Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force] would have granted us permission to have this activity…
“We have to do this under very strict COVID protocols but still we are welcoming persons to come out and celebrate with us… Wear your masks. We have sanitising stations so we want you to come. We want you to celebrate. We want you to support our farmers,” he said, adding there would be light entertainment.
In relation to the theme selected, Mr. Sargeant explained that it took some doing to come up with one, due to the ongoing pandemic.
“We had quite a bit of debate in terms of coming up with a theme especially in light of our COVID pandemic.
“We want you to boost your immunity, and you know once you consume things that are produced locally it will boost that immunity. So in case the worst happens, we are sure once you consume locally you will be strong enough to fight off most and many things,” he said.
Mr. Sargeant stated that although patrons will not be required to pay an entrance fee, he called for patience entering the grounds due to expected delays because they will be required to provide their names, contact numbers and addresses as part of the COVID-19 protocols, in the event that they need to be contacted.
Mr. Steve Reid, Chief Extension Officer in the Department of Agriculture who accompanied Mr. Sargeant explained that this time around most of the booths would be for farmers to enable them to sell their produce.
He noted that eating healthy is something the Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Ministry of Health are actively promoting and the local produce is mostly organically grown.
Apart from the health benefits, Mr. Reid underscored what he described as reasonable prices patrons can expect.
“We have a range of vegetables including our famous local onions. We will have sweet potatoes, we will also have pumpkins and in great quantity and very, very cheap prices. So individuals who are preparing for their Easter dishes could come and get it at a very reasonable price.
“We would also have the Abattoir here with their products whether its sliced or processed meats. We also will have the ornamentals here for those of us who are looking for fruit trees, ornamentals we will cater to that. So it’s basically similar to our Open Day. We will have a range of stuff at fairly great prices. The only difference is we would not be congested. We would have people coming and going in sequence,” he said.
]]>NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (March 22, 2021) – – Nevis’ burgeoning film industry is providing a boost not only to the economy on Nevis, where movie production is currently underway, but also to the sister island of St. Kitts.
Hon. Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis, said he was pleased that the effort of the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) to establish a film industry on the island, is benefitting both St. Kitts and Nevis.
“I am delighted that a film industry born from the urgent need of the Nevis Island Administration to diversify the Nevisian economy in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic has now taken flight and expanded to our sister island of St. Kitts to equally assist in the diversification of the St. Kitts economy.
“When we are concerned about national development, we quickly recognize that positive development on either island benefits both islands,” he stated.
The Premier’s comments came against the backdrop of MSR Media filming scenes at Christophe Harbour on St. Kitts on March 21, 2021, for the comedy “One Year Off”. The movie, which started filming on Nevis late February 2021, is the first of a multi feature film production deal between the UK–based film and television production company and the NIA.
Hon. Brantley praised the efforts of key players on Nevis for their roles in jump-starting the new industry on the island.
“I publicly applaud and thank again the team at the Nevis Tourism Authority headed by Ms. Jadine Yarde, Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Colin Dore, Permanent Secretary in the NIA’s Ministry of Finance; and Mr. Jacob Katsman for their excellent negotiating skills in attracting MSR Media to Nevis.
“Their hard work and the vision of the NIA is now benefiting not only Nevis but our beloved sister St. Kitts as well.
“MSR Media and my dear friend Philippe Martinez have found a home here and we look forward to building out the architecture for a serious film industry on Nevis and in the wider Federation,” he told the Department of Information on March 22, 2021.
Mr. Philippe Martinez, MSR Media producer and director of the film “One Year Off”, recently indicated that the company is in negotiations with the NIA to film a total of six movies in Nevis over the next 12 months.
Mr. Martinez has credited Premier Brantley’s keen ambition to create a new industry on Nevis as the catalyst for MSR Media coming to the Federation.
“All of that has been possible because of Mark’s vision…
“I would like to thank Premier Mark Brantley. We spoke first right before Christmas [2020]. He told me about his vision to build a film industry in Nevis and I thought it was exciting, because sometimes politicians don’t see the bigger picture of the film industry,” he said in an interview in February 2021, while filming on location in Nevis.
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