PM: Consultation the right step

Prime Minister David Thompson is in no doubt that the Inaugural Diaspora Conference for returning nationals is a step in the right direction.Thompson, who is overseas on a two-month break to deal with some medical issues, conveyed his thoughts via a speech read at yesterday’s conference by Keith Franklyn, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office.“Your attendance and participation in this event signals another step in cementing the nexus between Barbados and its diaspora.“For me personally this consultation is a vital part of the diaspora policy of this Government and is a dream come true. For too long, our policy has been diffused, unfocused and resource-starved,” he said.This country’s sixth Prime Minister said he was always heartened by the commitment of Barbadians overseas to the social and economic development of the country “and, who by their remittances and philantrophic contributions over the years have made an indelible mark on this country”.Thompson anticipates that this relationship will continue and that in the near future there will exist a seamless connection between Barbadians on the “rock” and Barbadians in the diaspora. (MK)