The attention of Anguillians has been drawn to the importance of the island’s upscale tourism industry in a letter to all nationals from Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism, Osbourne Fleming.

The letter, read out in churches and otherwise widely circulated, states that Anguilla is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year as a tourism destination and there is reason to be proud of the island’s accomplishments. The full text of the letter follows:

Fellow Anguillians,

In 1978 the Government of Anguilla created a Department of Tourism to promote the tourism industry as the engine by which sustained economic growth would come to Anguilla. This year 2003 we are celebrating our Silver Jubilee as a tourism destination. We are proud of our accomplishments. Direct employment in the Tourism Industry employs 1587 persons or 26% of our labour force and revenues to Government are in excess of EC$15,000,000.00. Our heritage sites are being preserved and developed, our accommodation facilities are rated amongst the best and so are our restaurants. Our standard of living has increased dramatically as evidenced by our nice homes, cars, businesses and higher levels of education.

Anguilla is home to some of the world’s most luxurious properties as well as magnificent beaches. We have successfully positioned Anguilla as a high quality and luxurious destination with quality being the all persuasive thread that runs throughout our accommodations and services.

Gourmands – those whose palates enjoy and appreciate eclectic dining – find Anguilla’s dining choices on par with and at times surpassing some of New York’s finest and most chic restaurants.

Our unhurried lifestyle has been therapeutic for many busy executives as well as families needing quality time together. Their ability to enjoy the beauty of Anguilla without harassment and within a low crime environment has been comforting to our visitors, many of whom have since become friends or family.

All that Angulla is and continues to celebrate as a tourism destination would come to nought if it were not for our greatest asset, you its beautiful and friendly people. Our visitors continue to praise the friendliness of our people, their willingness to chitchat, give direction, take a “ride” and most of all, give that warm smile that embraces and welcomes.

Tourism however is not all “gold” for with the revenue, employment creation and the opportunities of social and cultural enhancement can come increased crime, drugs, environmental decay, immorality, loss of family values and social degradation amongst other things. We as a Government are cognizant of the ills that can attach themselves to an industry that offers the greatest hope for peace and prosperity. Government has therefore put in place a number of measures to minimize these potential negative impacts.

We intend to ensure that our tourism industry is developed in an organised sustainable manner so as to ensure economic prosperity, social and cultural preservation as well as environmental protection. As we celebrate this Silver Jubilee, I urge you to join forces with your Government to preserve the character of our island. Together let us enhance and improve on the quality of our product; seek out and capitalize on those business opportunities that present themselves to us and ensure that tourism as an industry benefits all of us for generations to come.

Please join the Ministry of Tourism, the Anguilla Tourist Board and the Anguilla Hotel & Tourism Association in this Silver Jubilee Year.

(Signed)
Osbourne Fleming
Chief Minister & Minister of Tourism

Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism Osbourne Fleming

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