Gov’t discussing possibility of full-time membership in Caricom – Premier Wheatley
“It’s a discussion that I’ve been speaking to my colleagues about… we have discussed whether we should at this time seek full membership in Caricom,” he said.
The Premier was at the time responding to questions from the media on the limitations faced as an Associate Member of the Caricom, during a Press conference today, March 1, 2024, on the recently concluded 46th Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of CARICOM.
He said Montserrat, who is an Overseas Territory (OT) of the UK is a full member and Bermuda along with the Turks and Caicos has sought an entrustment fromt he UK to become a full member of Caricom.
“I discussed with Minister Rutley about seeking an entrustment to become a full member of Caricom,” he said in reference to talks with OT minister, David H. Rutley.
VI still benefits from Associate Membership - Premier
The Premier said the VI, however, as an Associate Member the VI is still able to benefit in some ways with some level of restrictions on the various Caricom programs.
Meanwhile, the Premier pointed to freedom of movement as undesirable for the Territory in the same way that the Bahamas is not part of some of those programs given the VI’s unique situation.
Premier Wheatley added that while the VI is grateful for the support received from Caricom over many issues, he has recognised that there is a need to evolve beyond Associate Member status.
26 Responses to “Gov’t discussing possibility of full-time membership in Caricom – Premier Wheatley ”
Hear them roar.
Free movement of skills / labour includes the right of a CARICOM National under Article 46 of the Revised Treaty; the Caribbean Community Skilled National's Act and the Immigration Laws of CARICOM Member States, without the need to obtain a work permit in the Member State in which he/she desires to work.
And yes; CARICOM professionals are free to move anywhere in the region to work without having to go through the work permit/visa hurdle.
Think it through Mr Premier. ????
First prove your leadership skills to us here in the in the BVI before trying to impress overseas political bodies.
You must be day dreaming, Hon. Premier., Yes
Bitting off more than you can chew at this time, yes.
Cap hang higher than you can reach, yes.
Caricom passports we have free movements of boy I love it
The populace has to have an input on such things.
https://natureisle.news/caricom/caricom-nationals-set-for-free-regional-movement-by-march-31/
St Barts. Zero poverty, unemployment ,crime
Monaco zero poverty unemploymrnt,crime
BVI membership guaranteed in CARICOM as it qualifies as a member of tiny countries that are inundated with unemployment poverty and crime unlike other small alike countries such as St Barts and Monaco.