‘Barbados First’ launched

THE ruling Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has put the booklet for its upcoming conference this weekend online, for the whole of Barbados to access.

Speaking at the press launch of the e-version of the DLP’s 62nd Annual Conference Document titled ‘Barbados First’, General Secretary of the DLP, George Pilgrim, said this is the first time that the document will be in the public domain before the official start of the conference, which is scheduled to take place from September 1-3. That document, which has been uploaded to the party’s Facebook page and website, outlines the stewardship of the political party, including he noted, how they were able to design a set of policies which are in keeping with the theme of the conference – Barbados First.

“We come together at a time when as a people we need to put Barbados first. Let me say that ‘Barbados First’ was chosen as the theme for this year’s conference as it describes in two words our policy journey. Barbados First does not represent an attempt by this party to involve isolationist policies which would attempt to shut out foreign investment or any outsiders, rather it underscores a value system that speaks to an ethos that has modernised this country. So the idea of Barbados First is not new,” he said.

His comments came as he noted that their record in such areas as health and education and the investments they have and continue to make in those sectors, speaks volumes to the efforts by the ruling party to always put the best interest of this country at the forefront. And, he explained that the Government was able to achieve that even in the face of “anti-Dems alliances”.

“Comrades, the Democratic Labour Party is right for Barbados, because we put Barbados first,” he maintained.

His remarks came as he made it clear that the document was not to be viewed in any way as a manifesto for the next general election, showing any entitlement to a third term in office. (JRT)