Prime Minister Assures Smooth Telecommuniations Transition - If Necessary

Contact: Roger Joseph

Monday, February 12, 2001 - Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Kenny D. Anthony is scheduled to leave St. Lucia tomorrow for Bridgetown, Barbados to attend the 12^th Inter-sessional Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). While in Barbados, the Prime Minister will use the opportunity to consult with his OECS colleague Prime Ministers on the new developments relating to Cable & Wireless, the telecommunications provider for the sub-region.

Prime Minister Anthony has already expressed the commitment of the Government of Saint Lucia to continuing discussions with Cable & Wireless and other interested providers, to ensure that St. Lucia's telecommunications needs are satisfied. However, should Cable & wireless be unwilling to be a part of this new liberalized environment which will offer better prices, more consumer-oriented services and added potential for employment, the Prime Minister has given the assurance that a smooth transition will take place from Cable and Wireless to a new telecommunications entity.

In the event that it becomes necessary, a change team comprising representatives of the Government of Saint Lucia and Cable & Wireless will be set up to ensure a smooth transition to the new entity, which will take over from Cable & Wireless.

The Prime Minister has made it abundantly clear that the Government of Saint Lucia has no desire or intention to own, manage or operate telephone or other telecom services, now or in the future. The Government of Saint Lucia believes that this activity is best left to local regional and international business interests with the necessary know-how and experience to successfully develop the sector. Further, Prime Minister Anthony says, any new entity would, of necessity, depend on the skills and experience of existing Cable & Wireless staff to deliver a quality service to the St. Lucian public. At the moment only one non-national is employed by Cable and Wireless in St. Lucia.

[ Home ] [ Up ] [ Search for 2001 Press Releases ] [Site Help]

© 2001 Government Information Service. All rights reserved.

Read our privacy guidelines.