I pray for prosperity to return to our shores and that the spirit of cooperation will pervade in our midst. It is time to put all hands on deck, reject divisiveness and move forward in unity, as united we stand, divided we fall. Let us put country first and all other things will fall into place.
Predictions for year 2012 are quite scary even the possibility of the end of the world on December 21. However from my vantage point, I see 2012 as the most eventful year in recent history. There is no need to fear. Get out there and secure your share of the pie. There are opportunities all around, right here in St. Lucia. Many successful businesses in the developed countries are yet to be introduced in the region and there are some opportunities for St. Lucian Entrepreneurs to invest overseas.
The year 2012 has finally dawned. It’s hard to say it but it’s true. And to be perfectly honest, I’m pretty excited about it. Yes, finally 2011 is behind us. 2011 was a horrible year for far too many; 2011 was a great year for far too few. I hope you were part of the few. I hope I’m not the only one that can’t believe it’s over. What a year? But 2012 is going to be an amazing year, fasten your seat belts and get ready for the ride of your life. Opportunity is everywhere. It’s certainly overwhelming. You only have so much time, so what do you focus on to break free? Obviously the answer will be different for everyone.
I look forward to a new year of service. My involvement with young people seeking to advance a career in Entrepreneurship will be expanded and my TV Show – Let’s Talk Business on MBC Television, Channels 42 LIME and 52 Karibcable will be continued. My weekly column Harris at Large is gaining popularity and I am heartened by the responses I continue to receive. I will be updating my websites in the New Year and look forward to your participation. I am very happy to contribute my two cents to the process.
There is no better time to think about the poor in our midst. The poor is always with us but there must be a continuous effort to make their lives better. At this time of year, it is a time for caring and sharing. I hear Carols and Christmas songs and I get a good feeling – a state of abundance. Christians everywhere can claim their portion of abundance. Jesus came that his people may have life and have it more abundantly. It is on reflection and looking ahead that you can live your best life now. In closing, I wish above all things that health and prosperity will be yours always! Happy Holidays!
The present electoral system in Guyana allows for a minority party to assume the mantle of government and to administer the affairs of the nation. The party that gets the most seats in parliament forms the government. There is no provision for a COALITION Government in Guyana. Until December 28, 2011 the party with the most votes always received in excess of fifty percent of the ballots and it was easy to cruise along with a parliamentary majority. Unfortunately, the opposition parties had no voice as their contribution was not necessary. The government introduced motions and bills, and generally had their way.
We must attract Foreign Direct Investors, this is vital to our economic future. We must get the message out to the world that St. Lucia is a world class destination for doing business. In the meantime, we must get our Ease of Doing Business ranking to an acceptable level. In the interest of getting more for less, the efforts of all ministries and agencies seeking to attract foreign direct investments must be effectively coordinated, seeking joint representation and participation in events that will showcase what St. Lucia has to offer.
Congratulations are in order for all the victorious candidates in the recently held general elections in Saint Lucia! However, the real victory belongs to the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP). Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony and his team fought a good fight and the task to lead the country for the next five years is theirs.
It was refreshing listening to former Prime Minister of Grenada, Honourable, Dr. Keith Mitchell on the midday news on 23/11/11 talking about uniting the people of Grenada, regardless of their political preference, to work together without discrimination for the benefit of the country. Grenada’s election is due in 2013 but Hon. Dr. Keith Mitchell is already beating the drum of unity. Shouldn’t St. Lucian politicians take note?
The St. Lucia Youth Business Trust (SLYBT), another initiative of the Chamber was launched on the evening of Tuesday, 15th November, 2011at the Governor General’s residence. It was a very impressive ceremony with the main speakers being Dr. Stephen King of RISE – St. Lucia and Mrs. Marcia Brandon of Barbados Youth Business Trust. A few persons were recognized for their contribution to the successful implementation of the Trust. The following persons received awards:- Dame Pearlette Louisy, Governor General of Saint Lucia, Mrs. Marcia Brandon of BYBT, Dr. Stephen King of RISE – St. Lucia, among other persons and organizations, and Construction and Industrial Equipment (CIE) and First Caribbean International Bank for their substantial financial contributions. Ms. Arlena Louis-Antoine is the Project Coordinator of the programme.