Work of National Security Strategy Formulation Committee Progressing Steadily

The recently launched National Security Strategy Formulation Committee (NSSFC) has already met with several stakeholders and other meetings are planned over the coming weeks, according to its chairman, Dwyer Astaphan.

Almost one month following the formal introduction of the committee, its members have already met with the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services, Her Majesty’s Customs and Excise Department, as well as the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority. Mr. Astaphan explained that going forward, the NSSFC will meet with other government ministries and agencies such as education, health, the financial intelligence unit and the financial regulatory services commission. They also expect to meet with non-Government organizations in both St. Kitts and Nevis, for example, private sector, church groups, the bar association, the medical association, the Rastafarian community, and the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association, as well as political organizations.

Following the meeting, the committee asks each group to submit a paper to them outlining their perspectives with regard to the issues affecting their respective organizations.

In addition to those meetings, the NSSFC is also seeking to hear from members of the general public through town hall meetings. Persons Are also being encouraged to submit papers to the secretariat. Mr. Astaphan said that individuals can submit papers outlining their perspectives and analysis of the problem, with recommendations as to how the situation can be improved.

Persons can contact the NSSFC Secretariat, located in the E.C. Daniel Building on Cayon Street or call 662-5864 and speak with Mrs. Chessy Webbe-Allen, who oversees the office.

Members of the public can also submit recommendations through email at: nssfc2018@gmail.com.