If there is an achievement that the people of Anguilla should be proud about, apart from their 1967 stunning Revolution, it is the success story of the island’s Social Security system. In fact both the Revolution and Social Security (the latter of which was introduced some 14 or15 years later), are inseparable. They are a kind of “Siamese twins” having a tremendous impact on the development of Anguilla and the lives and wellbeing of its people.

One cannot comment on the strides made by Social Security without reflecting on James Ronald Webster, the pioneer of the System and the former fearless leader of the Anguilla Revolution. It is a case where he, having secured the political freedom of the island and set Anguilla on a course of self-determination, went on to dream up a means of social security and economic wellbeing particularly for Anguillians in their latter years of need.

Interestingly enough, there were few employment opportunities on the island then, and therefore the earning power of the people was low. It was a field day for the scoffers and detractors but Webster, ever a determined and wise leader, pursued his dream. A growing economy and the increased employment which followed the Revolution have poured an abundance of employee/employer contributions into the System. It is not surprising that 2006 ended with staggering reserves in the fund of EC$160.5 million!
The activities marking the 25th Anniversary of Social Security which started earlier this year, are now winding down with a Social Security Week and presentation of accounts. As we thank Mr. Webster for his vision, we also offer commendation and gratitude to all the Chairpersons from Marcel Fahie in the formative years down to this day; including its first Director, Colville Petty, the Board of Directors, Ministers, Staff and other stakeholders who over the years have carried forward the Social Security System from its embryonic state through the various stages of its development.
Director Timothy Hodge and his dedicated staff, the Board and the Minister of Finance should be proud to be the current actors on the platform of success. They, the others who preceded them and the Father of the Anguilla Revolution and Social Security, James Ronald Webster, should consider themselves basking in the glittering achievements of the System and in the appreciation of a grateful Anguillian population.

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