New Years message commissioner Wilson

New Years message commissioner Wilson

I would like to wish all my fellow Sabans a happy and prosperous 2018.  Last year we faced many challenges together, and it is because we stood together as a community that we have endured the many tests that were sent our way.

I am proud of our resilience and sense of community and with these qualities, I look forward to the many opportunities that lie before us this year.

The Island Government of Saba is always striving to do better for all of the island’s inhabitants and I would like to highlight the developments in my portfolios that we can expect in 2018:

• Social Affairs: Efforts are always being made to improve the standard of living for everyone. Issues of poverty have been seen and heard, and we will work with our counterparts to try to alleviate poverty and make life better for those in need.
• Housing: Phase Two of the Under the Hill Project will commence this year, with new homes being built and infrastructural developments as well.
• Energy: As we constantly strive for sustainable energy, I am proud to announce that this year we will see the opening of Phase One of the solar park. Phase Two will also commence this year.
• Environment: As part of the Nature Project, maintenance and repairs will continue of various hiking trails, Crispeen Trail in particular as well as the upgrading of the yacht moorings.
• Healthcare: The hospital will undergo remodeling and general repairs. A plan has been developed for this project, strategically based on the healthcare priorities set for Saba for 2018-2022.
• Sports and Recreation: Plans have been made to reactivate the Saba Sports Federation, and planning is underway for the development of playgrounds in the different villages.
• Agriculture: The agriculture project continues to be a success, and I am excited that both local schools will also be getting involved in this endeavor of sustainable agriculture.
• Gender Issues: A Woman’s Desk will be opened on the island later this year if all goes well.
• Culture: Last year a project leader for Cultural Affairs was hired and the main focus for 2018 is the drafting of a cultural policy and ensuring an impulse injection to already established cultural events on the island.

As stated, these are just some of the highlights of what is planned for 2018.  As the year progresses, I commit to keeping you informed of all developments in these areas.  In closing, I wish you all the very best for 2018 and remember that by standing strong together we can achieve so much.

Commissioner R. Wilson