UNESCO secretary highlights role as SIV national coordinator

Basseterre, St. Kitts - New UNESCO National Commission Secretary General Antonio Maynard said that the Small islands Voice (SIV) initiative provides an excellent opportunity for small island developing states to 'Give a voice' in the global village.

In his role as SIV national coordinator, Maynard explained that while working closely with his committee, he intends to provide avenues for all types of individuals to air their opinions on developmental and environmental issues.

He noted that via technology it is possible to get that voice to every corner of the world. This he explained is what the initiative is all about.

To facilitate this aspect, SIV has established an Internet Centre at the Ministry of Education Building, Cayon Street, which can be accessed by the general public during working hours.

The SIV national coordinator encouraged residents to tae advantage of this free service since it brings out the issues that impact the society and the Federation as a whole.

He further noted that these issues can then be compared with those that are brought out by other developing states in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Maynard said that in carrying out his role he is ably assisted by a general committee as well as education, public relations, display board sub committees, which undertake the roles specified by their names.

He added that the members of the general committee represent different public and private sectors of society and were appointed because of their expertise in their various fields.

The opinions and suggestions gathered from the exercise will enable policy makers to make more meaningful and informed decisions with respect to development and environment.

And as well as various stakeholders who are interested in the public's view on the mentioned issues, concluded Maynard.

St. Kitts and Nevis Sun, 16th February 2004