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**One not soo young 11** » 2012-09-17 17:48

Our POLITICIAN/Lead ers do not have a plan with regards to the preservation of or land/building (wont even begin to talk about our National PARks)

I hope Nationals of my land will stand up and advise these ill advised POLITICIANS and their Hangers-ons that we will no longer be accepting their methods of leadership (rather lack of ). Enough is Enough!! The need for additional white elephant within the city has reached it limit. Complete one project before you attempt to begin another.

**One not soo young 11** » 2012-09-17 17:48

There is absolutely NO need for this building to be demolished. It simply needs to have the roof materials changed and a few cosmetic changes made .

How can decisions of this magnitude be made consistently without ANY input by US? Not a single meeting was held with even the constituents (constituents =the POLITICIANS favourites); for those of us who are thought to be 'members of the non-reading public -a simple model of the proposed changes would have been acceptable. But no unfortunately our politicians and their hangers-ons are of the belief that JOHN PUBLIC will take their every word as gospel and not question dumb decisions and policies.

**One not soo young** » 2012-09-17 17:47

Here in my homeland it appears that every 'FAD" should be picked up and ingested and the trend of thought is "Fad is good for all.. However, it is my view that from this moment onward no projects should be approved by POLITICIANS since they are only in office for a term and we (those who reside in Antigua and Barbuda) are left with their sad mistakes looooong after they have been removed from office.

**Jumbee Picknee** » 2012-09-08 12:54

The Pearl Industry does several things in a positive and productive manner:
1...It requires a very highly skilled work force, so it enhances the Education System.
2...It provides food since all of the conchs, oysters, clams and other such animals used are consumable.It's like a cow giving milk and calves, then she becomes stake, burgers, etc.
3...it helps to repair and strengthen our eroding coast line, barrier & coral reefs.
4...A lastly, but not in the least bit out of sight, strands of those varing or singular color radiating from these pearls strung around the ankles, wrists, necks, dangling teary eyed from THOSE BEAUTIFUL, GEORGEOUS, SEXY FEMALES, the backbone of our Culture.

**Jumbee Picknee** » 2012-09-08 12:36

@ Antiguan Woman and to all DAUGHTERS OF THE SOIL OF OUR BLESSED NATION.
You have been the backbone, stablizing Force within Our Communities and being the Mother of Pearl's that you all are, there's the Cultured Pearl Industry which We can and MUST develop as a part of our continued growing process. The Pearl Industry is a billion $$$$$$$$$ one which we are losing out on. This is one reason, why we cannot afford to relinquish the soVEREign rights to Redonda. It's perfect for the cultivation of pearls/pearl farming.
What should have happened, and I am only speculating, since I am not privy to the negotiated terms, but when WE gave theJapanesee access to those same waters, and Mr. Maginly was present, I hope, was to get in return some type of access, be it education or otherwuse, to their SECRETIVE, PATTEN regarding the Cultured Pearl Industry.

**Jumbee Picknee** » 2012-09-08 12:13

Greetings, with One Aim, One Truth, One Destiny, as I say to the Third Eye of others, "the only tired, I am tired, is TIRED of giving in." Rosa Parks...Like you, sharing a vision, thought, concept of a positive nature, only enhances one's Being
It makes room for other such thoughts, while those shared are dissiminated, regurged, sent back to you well red lined and graded so that the critical analysis only serves to enlighten and illuminate you further, rather than stagnate.
There is absolutely, no rhyme nor reason, why We cannot have more than the bottle necked pier at Heritage Quay. It would open up this Industry which we consider to be so vital and important to Antigua, Barbuda, AND REDONDA.! REDONDA! REDONDA! You know the importance of Redonda.

**ANTIGUAN WOMAN** » 2012-09-08 10:25

While you,re at it,please distance yourself from Tourism period,so the product can get some oxygen and breath some new life,its suffocating under the pressure of dunceness.

**Omen** » 2012-09-08 08:46

When we are constantly being told that tourism is everyone's business it seems to my simple mind that this document or anything similar should have a National consultation.
Having said that the Land use policy had such and is still not enacted and enforced! A bit like the 2004 Fisheries act, still not law and there are probably a few other examples.

**John French II** » 2012-09-08 00:39

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! Jumbie Picknee, the substance, attributes and modes of the concepts with which you set forth your visions of Antigua and Being, illuminated by your awareness of Jah, may seem strange at first blush but when folks "Pay Attention!" speak to a wider question of "What Is?" Keep on providing Provocative Ideas.
Many moons ago Parham, I believe that it was through a UNESCO study was suggested as the most viable Port for the Cruise Ship Industry. Natural Deep Water Port. It meant a major redevelopment and upgrade of Historical Sites. This opportunity was missed. Last year, RCCL developed the port of Falmouth in Jamaica at a cost of some $200M USD.
Your suggestion of Rat Island & Fort James has also been planned by RCCL but shelved by Blue GoAB. See the URL specifically pages 39 to 43.
aapa.files.cms-plus.com/PDFs/09LATCONG_Tercek_John.pdf
Another suggestion would have been to develop Cruise Ship Facilities at the old American Pier, a new City at Coolidge and Airport, . It would ofcourse involve negotiations with the US but think of what a Good Urban & Master Planner would have done for a Young Nation. Respect!

**John French II** » 2012-09-08 00:00

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock. Dax Rebel, you are on to something. Delighted to see that there are others like you who "peep behind the curtain to see the soft underbelly" and "Follow The Money'". Antigua & Barbuda is a young Nation with an old mentality. Quote:

Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it and Only the Dead have seen the end of War -Santayana

Our human condition, cultural practices, social, economic & political institutions have evolved from the past where Quote:

Local Government (falsely so-called) is the curse of the West Indies. In many islands it means only the rule of a local Oligarchy of Whites & Half-breeds - always incapable and frequently corrupt. Joseph Chamberlain, Secretary of State fro the Colonies, 1896.

to harmonize with the conditions found present in today's Antigua & Barbuda's Political, Economical, Social and Technology environment. How else can you account for Resident Ambassador of Shoals, his power & influence? Share some Love for the People. Each one Teach One. Sadly many of the "Beautiful People" have abdicated that to a very few like You. Use Your Keyboard Wisely. Much Respect!

**Dax Rebel** » 2012-09-07 19:20

It is obvious that Antiguans are uninformed and really not intelligent as we would wish to believe. The elimination of the Taxi Operators is along-tern Plan to financially enrich the few Tour Operators. Those who wish to "distance themselves", are the very ones representing the Tour Operators. With declining tourists, the Tour Operators are feeling the pinch, so they met with their friends in high places, and hatched this plan to force the Taxi Drivers from Heritage Quay.

But beware! The Tour Operators "Big Man" is now head of the Airport Authority, and as soon as the new terminal is completed, the very same thing will be done to the Airport Taxi Drivers. New rules and regulations to facilitate the Tour Operators will be put in place, to the detriment of the local, long-standing taxi men and women, whose livelihood will vanish into thin air. Just wait and see. Those who are 'distancing themselves" will be laughing and drinking with the Tour operators in their lavish homes in exclusive communities, while the taxi drivers are put out to pasture.

**Jumbee Picknee** » 2012-09-07 19:15

The initial plan to remove the cruise ship pier from Deep Water Harbour in thr e 1980's, spearheaded by the then Minister of Tourism Lester Bird was the beginning of this nightmare. The north side of Rat Island west to Fort James was the ideal location. This would allow for Fort James to be developed into a Historical Museum with the same kinds of businesses that now occupy Heritage Quay. Buildings to be designed in an indigenious style complimenting Our Culture and History.
There is ample room at Fort James for parking etc. This would also allow for other forms of transportation as well i.e. horse or donkey drawn carrigages. Not every visitor wants the same thing. Rat Island is perfect for water rides, slides by using the sea water. Again, the design theme MUST reflect Our Heritage. The idea is to be unique, yet with the amenities which will allow the visitor to leave money on Our Shores. ISN'T THIS THE WHOLE IDEA?

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 15:33

Notes From A Native Son Of the Rock! Conflict of Interest is much too rampant for anyone with Responsibility, Authourity & Power to "Pay Attention!"
These SJDC jesters knowing fully well that the Taxi Drivers are easy Targets by both residents and tourists deflect peoples anger away from their failed plans & operations. Their management of St. John's is an abysmal failure.
As you could see I refused to get into the Taxi Issue until Steadyj engaged. The Poor Taxi & Tour Bus Driver Service is a sympton of a Sick Operation.
With no Cruise Ships this summer, what PM, Maintenance and or Renovations have they effected all summer. Do they have a Maintenance & Operating Plan. The poorly paid sweepers and garbage collectors do a credible job.
Maybe some day the People of St.John's and the Environs will see this 180 page report, who wrote it and the cost.
The Ferry Terminal for Montserrat built for solely for emergencies from Eruption with EU Funds. Who approved the location?
When will they show us th OMB report? Atleast the RCL Development Report is online. I am not waiting.
Go Well! Much Respect.

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 13:54

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! Thanks for you appreciation.
Any sane thinking resident must ask the question how did they engage in Urban Planning 300 yrs ago, build wide strrets and wharves in an era of horse buggies & sailing sloops with storm & sanitary systems which we are still using today with no improvement?
SJDC developed Cruise Ship Facilities and Amenities. What did they do for Taxi & Tour Bus Service? Did they Plan for them? 50 yrs ago, this mere voice in the wilderness served as a Tourist Guide at the Dockyard. At school we had to demonstrate our knowledge of the History. Nicholson saw this as a Priority.
Visit any North Atlantic City, it is a requirement that tour guides must pass exams. Has SJDC, Min of Tourism or Min of Ed. prepared our Taxi & Tour Drivers for such rigorous qualifications? Our Taxi &Tour Service need to be better planned but dont blame them. They are the victims of Poor Policies, Planning, Organization, Governance & Bureaucracy by those with Responsibility & Authourity.
Get Rid of SJDC. Municipal Governments are Functioning in the OECS & Caricom. Experienced this 50 yrs ago in the French Island Departments.
Respect!

**Dig It** » 2012-09-07 13:46

JF, must say you have been "awake" on matters concerning "infrastructure " in this country for a long time but hopefully your calls will not fall "deaf ears!"

**Dig It** » 2012-09-07 13:33

My fellow bloggers, why do our leaders like to leave "projects" unfinished, underdeveloped, or even not "accountable" to how they "wasted" the peoples money? It is the way things are done, and, that I have a problem with! For years the SJDC have stood by and not take a "proactive" approach to develop or improve the areas in and around HQ to benefit all stakeholders in tourism! While other islands have taken their livlihood seriously, we are lagging behind in how we "organize" our taxis and vendors to avoid a "bad report" from passengers on the cruise ships! Are we not paying attention that "negative" feedbacks do have severe consequences on our main industry! Let's make tourism "everybody business" why taken a serious approach with both locals and businesses playing there part! Afterall, if anyone should "profit" from the success of getting our areas in order is the people, not Ministers or government! Yet, once things are done "right," those that are elected to serve are always "begin-up-their -chest!"

**Reader** » 2012-09-07 13:08

After the "Hungry Bird" incident a couple years ago, all tourists should be warned. Just stay on the ship!

**Fed uP** » 2012-09-07 12:36

I think everyone is misinformed about this matter.
The Taxis drivers are not against the progress that is planned for the cruise sector.
They are simply stating they have not being consulted in the matter by the Authorities. That is the simple story.
The Authorities need the cooperation of the Taxi drivers to enhance the product. Instead of confrontation there needs to be consultation.
Minister Maginley needs needs to take leadership of this .This can and will have an effect on Antigua & Barbuda> show leadership Minister Maginley. From what I have been hearing MR Nathan Dundas seems to be the one taking the lead in this matter seeking meetings and bringing the stakeholders together .

**Steadyj** » 2012-09-07 11:31

John French II, thanks for the brief history lesson on the history of St. Johns. I find your post to be always reasoned and informative.

It's high time that the port area organized the taxi and tour operators area. Something need to be done to get away from the fish market type atmosphere. Most cruise passenger already did their research online, so they know what tours, or excursions that they want before they arrive. Taxi operator should be aware of this fact, and just facilitate the cruise passenger wishes and not hassle them.

**Get real** » 2012-09-07 09:14

The Taxi drivers are annoying and if the Cruise Association on which they are depending for their livelihood are complaining then what is the problem with dealing with the issues. I listened to the interview with Browne of SJSC and he did not target just the taxi drivers. Mention was also made of store owners who would send reps to outside to meet the tourist and hair braiders etc. I understand the Taxi drivers concern that the tourists may wander around and then other illegitimate taxis will pick them up. Why not be innovative and offer an incentive for the tourists to go to the Legitimate taxi dispatch?? discounts, or pre- arranged tours via cruise ship are ideas that can be utillized. I have been on cruise ships servicing the Caribbean before and in St. Lucian, Dominica, St. Thomas St. Marteen this does not happen.

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 08:51

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! "Pickey Head People", this is not a time for "Bawling" but a time to "Gird our Loins" with "Each Endeavouring" to protect our heritage and bring about Strategic Changes for Nation Building. we cannot allow them to Quote:

Pave paradise and put up a parkin lot with a pinkhotel, a boutique and a swinging hot spot. Don't it always seem to go That you don't know what you got till it's gone. They paved paradise and put up a parking lot. Joni Mitchell

In the Past I suggested that GoAB get rid of the SJDC. They have outlived their usefullness and like the Peter Principle the members have been promote d to their level of incompetence . Did she visit A&B?
2010 Census St. John's has population over 22K. The Environs of St. John's have over 25K. Collectively they surpass 57K in population. For Municipal Status towns must reach the 20K threshold. Individually/co llectivey that threshold has been passed. Residents must agitate to ensure that GoAB reponds with good governance & create a Municipality. This is 300 years since the Development of St. John's.
Heaven Help The Nation Of Antigua & Barbuda including Redonda.

**The Truth** » 2012-09-07 08:21

It is certain that the Taxi drivers need to step back. They will get more business. The ha**ment of tourists 'Taxi,taxi,taxi ,taxi,taxi etc' is too much. I witnessed two taxi men literally fighting over a group of eight in SJDC. When you speak to tourists, they have been warned before they leave the ship, Antigua have a reputation. It is common sense that the spend of Cruise ship passengers increases with less ha**ment, they free up, take a walk round town , pick a destination, then take a taxi instead of being railroaded to destination of the taxi drivers choice. We will all make more money with a change in attitude and a more organized system.

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 08:19

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! Rastas, we must forever remain faithful to our History. This mere voice in the wilderness in all sincerity does not believe that the report was written by anyone of the 95% of African ethnicity. The Chair has advised that Quote:

“When they come in town and they park they create havoc in St. John’s. The plan calls for the removal of the Ministry of Health building to make a car park and designate it for the Taxi Association.

Do they know the History and Significance of that Building and Ancient Landmark? Given the manner in which we destroy all of our Historical Edifices, Places & Landmarks, we bequeath nothing of Respect for the Ancestors to our Youth. Why are we surprised at their masquerading bachanals, debauchery and violence? Todate this mere voice in the wilderness refuses to travel the road to YASCO(the site of The Lady Nugent Burial Ground for the Poor) and will not enter Paradise Park- another Cemetary for our Ancestors. How callous and uncaring have we become?
The folks at SJDC, cannot be that pompous and arrogant that they would unilaterally get rid of Historical Landmarks without GoAB Approval.

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 07:52

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! Ouadadlians, 300 yrs ago, roads were laid out and built in St. John's. There were no motor vehicles then. They were built to accommodate horses, buggies and mule trains carrying goods and cargoes. They have not been improved upon. Travel the circumference and area of Antigua, have we done anything comparable in Urban Planning? St. John's and its transportation infrastructure is failing beneath the crush & weight of autos, trucks, other heavy industrial & construction equipment & containers. Duh U c eny ting fi smile fa?
In 1755 they constructed Quote:

the Rat Island Barracks (now the Deep Water Port) were not universally popular, being considered by the men to be too close to a large swamp to be good for their health, and by the officers as being too close to the grog shops and other low-life attractions at the shady end of At. John's to be good for discipline.

CountryWomen/Me n have you ever visited Dred Bay? Have you gone recently through lower Point pass the Japanese Built Fishing Complex, pass Food City and unto Villa. Where is the Deputy Developer? Maybe the Good Legal Counsel of Bau. No It's SJDC Responsibilty.

**Brooklyn** » 2012-09-07 07:29

why mr Browne dont tell the public that sjd collect $200 from every taxi driver to operate in the quay and that was actually a bargain brought to the table by sjd .

**John French II** » 2012-09-07 07:26

Notes From A Native Son Of The Rock! "Gentle Jesus ...Pity my Simplicity." This is so "very chaotic" that the "absolute chaos" can only be appreciated as "comic relief". Quote:

Following the decline in the importance of Falmouth ... St.John's was recognized as the capital around the turn of the eighteen century. The Street grid which still forms the heart of the city - between North & South Strreets and between the harbour and East Street (Independence Avenue since 1981) - was laid out in 1702, in the same year that a public market and a number of wharves constructed.- A History of Antigua B,Dyde

Friends forward to Quote:

1735, when rough and ready buildings were put up east of St. John's ... for the accommodation of the regiment of foot stationed on the island

That was the beginning of HM Prison. In 1750 yet more barracks complete with a military hospital were built at the site. It still stands and functions today.
Back to SJDC. Who wrote the "Sterile" 180 page report? What were the findings and recommendations ? What was the cost? No Transparency & Accountability.
Sadly, SJDC seems to project the very "Sterile Area" the report addresses.

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