Civil Society Bahamas engaged in Economic Partnership Agreement talks
The Bahamas Weekly | Jun 15, 2013
Civil Society Bahamas engaged in Economic Partnership Agreement talks
By Civil Society Bahamas
Civil Society Organizations of the Bahamas, under the leadership of Civil Society Bahamas were engaged by CARICOM Secretariat and in particular, The Caribbean Forum of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (CARIFORUM) to discuss the European Union (EU) Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The two day engagement was initiated with remarks from The Hon. Ryan Pinder, Minister of Financial Services of The Bahamas, who stated the position of the Bahamas Government in support of the benefits to be experienced through the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
During the discussion of the draft document of the Bahamas National EPA Implementation Plan, it was acknowledged that there is much work to be finalized. There must be active participation of all stakeholders if maximum benefits are to be gained. It is critical that proper communication of vital information among The Bahamas’ Government Agencies and Civil Society stakeholders is successful, if maximum mutual benefits are to be experienced for all Bahamians.
Civil Society Bahamas in keeping with its operational theme “Re-education, Training & Development” has expressed its concern for and its commitment to ensuring that every opportunity is provided for the average Bahamian to be positioned for best opportunities as the Government makes its final decision on the EPA.
Civil Society Organizations are concerned about Bahamians having a proper understanding of the EPA and its beneficial impact. Therefore, an urgent call has been made for an adequate locally structured EPA Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Financial Services. This will allow all stakeholders the opportunity to acquire a better understanding of the Economic Partnership Agreement through advance sustained technical guidance and assistance.
Civil Society Bahamas executives took opportunity to restate its holistic concern for effective tripartite governance to the representatives of The Bahamas Government and CARICOM / CARIFORUM on behalf of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non Government Organizations (NGOs).
The current executive officers of Civil Society Bahamas are Anthony Hamilton, President; Leslie Moore, Vice President; Richard Johnson, Secretary; Sharmaine Adderley, Assistant Secretary; Prodesta Moore, Treasurer; Philip Simon, Assistant Treasurer; Terry Miller, Director; Wilfred Smith, Director and Lowena West, Director.
