Firstly, I would like to thank Almighty God for having brought us through another year, without experiencing any major natural disasters.

Thanks also to God for all he has done and provided to the people of this country.

This year was indeed a very prosperous one for the residents of Anguilla. Unlike a number of regional countries and by extension the world, Anguilla continues to enjoy a period of much prosperity. For that I think we all should continue to give God thanks.

The government of Anguilla faced a number of challenges in 2007, but through it all, we were able to overcome a number of them.

We have seen during the year, significant growth in a number of areas, and I am indeed grateful for the support of my colleagues in government and the people of Anguilla on a whole.

One of the challenges which we continue to face, is the rise in criminal activity.

I am sure that every resident in Anguilla is concerned about this rise in crime, and during this Christmas I call on every citizen to reflect on the seriousness of this outbreak of violence.

Fellow Anguillians, I cast no blame on any particular person or institution. There is no need and time for that.

Let us decide to do something about it

As Chief Minister of Anguilla, I must constantly remind myself and the people of this island, that we are indeed victims of our own successes. Indeed the prosperity which this island currently enjoys, has arrived at our shores but not without a cost.

Remember we can lose all that we have if we do not face this problem headon.

Therefore I call upon all residents of Anguilla to band themselves together and ensure that the Anguilla we once boasted about so proudly, is indeed the Anguilla, “where tranquility is wrapped in blue.”

I want to take this opportunity to empathize with all who have been affected in one way or the other during 2007.

When we had the rally against violence, many, instead of using it to unite the people, saw it as a time for further division among our people. It is my sincere prayer that we put aside political ambitions and focus on the great needs of the island which cannot be endured without unity.

The challenges of leading this country continues to grow: Crime and violence, labour issues, immigration matters, national security and preserving our heritage, need serious divine intervention.

We therefore must continue to acknowledge the Christ in Christmas in all our ways. There is no other God to be lifted up in this nation, and I call on all those who know and experience the power of prayer to continue to do so.
What then are we seeking to promote in our nation this Christmas? …. Love, peace, goodwill, the spirit of giving, harmony and humanity.

Let me express thanks to all who have played and continue to play an important role in the development of this island…..the investors, civil servants, the police, the owners of the various businesses, the financial institutions as well as the local and foreign work force and the people of Anguilla.

There is much to look forward to in the new year, and this calls for continued vigilance, cooperation and goodwill, if we are to achieve all our goals.

On behalf of the Government of Anguilla, my family and I, wish for all of you the best this Christmas season and may the true spirit of this season remain with us all.

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