PM off to Haiti for CARICOM meeting; Errol Mc Leod to act

File: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar with Labour Minister Errol Mc Leod

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissesssar will leave for Haiti on Saturday to attend the 24th Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government. She returns home on February 20. During her absence Labour Minister Errol Mc Leod will be acting Prime Minister.

Persad-Bissessar will chair the first of a series of meetings on Sunday and on Monday she will participate in a meeting of CARICOM Heads of government who will be discussing the strengthening the Regional Crime and Security agenda. The summit will also deal with the CARICOM Regional Aid for Trade Strategy, and a report on the Regional Architecture for Financial Stability.

In July 2013, the Prime Minister will assume the Chair of CARICOM. In that role she will also take on responsibilities within the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) Quartet.

A media release from the office of the PM Thursday said, "It is anticipated that these engagements will allow for a more frequent and targeted interaction with her regional peers which, undoubtedly, will enhance her ability to positively influence both international and regional events with the aim of improving the quality of life of all citizens of CARICOM."