With Christmas almost here, and New Year 2008 soon after, this is a good time to reflect on how far Anguilla has come, and on where we are heading.
Anguilla is enjoying unprecedented prosperity, but also faces serious questions. These come down essentially to: how to reconcile economic growth and development with social cohesion, the protection of a fragile natural environment, and the fostering of national culture.

Governor Andrew George

Anguilla’s economy continues to grow strongly, with tourism and construction leading the way. There are many opportunities for Anguillians to take up careers with a bright future. I was greatly impressed a few weeks ago at the first certificate presentation ceremony of the National Community College to see the enthusiasm displayed by people of a wide range of ages to learn new skills to respond to the needs of the hospitality industry. I look forward to seeing this important project develop further in the coming year, finding a permanent home, and expanding the range of courses on offer.

At the same time, economic growth is attracting increasing numbers of people from elsewhere to fill gaps in the labour market. Anguilla is likely to become an increasingly diverse society, as the scale of development planned will require numbers of workers with a range of skills which will not all be available locally. Accommodating this growth in population will need investment in vital infrastructure of schools, medical facilities, and affordable housing.
Sadly, the past year has not been without its tragedies. We have seen several murders, and other incidents of violent crime. Tackling violent crime needs a concerted effort involving all parts of society. The rally against violence held earlier this year showed the level of concern about the problem. Sustained effort is now required to identify and deal with its roots.

The changes going on in Anguilla mean that it is timely to take an in-depth look at the existing structures of governance, and at the relationship between Anguilla and the United Kingdom. The constitutional talks scheduled to start in July between Anguilla and the UK were postponed so that the government and people of Anguilla could give further thought to the way ahead. I hope that these talks will get under way in the New Year.

We have once more been fortunate in 2007, to be spared any damage from natural disasters. But we have seen the effect of storms on other islands in the region, and the earth tremor a few weeks ago reminded us all of our vulnerability. We must always be vigilant and prepared.
I would like to close by wishing all the people of Anguilla, and all residents and visitors to the island, a happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News