S.Atlantic : OTCC BUSY BUT PRODUCTIVE SAYS CLLR SUMMERS
Submitted by SARTMA.com (Juanita Brock) 02.11.2008 (Article Archived on 16.11.2008)
The OTCC concluded on Wednesday after two full days of discussions which had been largely positive and constructive.
Photo (c) Foreign and Commonwealth Office - Ms Gillian Merron with Conrad Glass - Tristan's Chief Islander
OTCC BUSY BUT PRODUCTIVE SAYS CLLR SUMMERS
By J. Brock (FINN)
Minister Gillian Merron and Conrad Glass
The OTCC concluded on Wednesday after two full days of discussions which had been largely positive and constructive.
Cllr Mike Summers went on to say in his letter that on the first day we made contributions to the discussions on Good Governance and the future of the White Paper, and on the current world economic situation. Commitment to good governance and the developing relationships between OT's and HMS engendered lively discussion.
More relevant economic issues were particularly important and representatives were keen to understand the UK Treasury view on the weakness of the pound and the likely longer term perspective, which was suggested should be a strengthening against the dollar and parity against the Euro.
On the second day Cllr Summers lead a discussion on the EU/OTC relationship and the consultation process which has commenced longer term arrangements. There will be further discussion on this at the EU Forum in Cayman. The Falkland Islands delegation also contributed to the debate on Climate Change and Environmental Protection, stressing the need for significantly more large scale funding for environmental issues which transcend national boundaries.
At the bi-lateral meeting with the new Minister, Gillian Merron., representatives had a positive discussion on a number of issues, and Cllr Summers was able to brief her on current issues including air-bridge pricing on which she has expressed a willingness to consult further with other Ministers.
In the margins of the main programme Cllr Summers attended two Select Committee discussions at the Commons on OTC/EU relations and FASC, and managed to meet with a number of MP's.
“It has been a busy but productive few days,” he added.
|
