The newly formed United Alliance political party has released its manifesto ahead of the upcoming general election in Montserrat.
It emphasises, among other things, creating equal opportunities in education, boosting the tourism sector, cutting the cost of living, and providing affordable and reliable access.
All eight candidates gathered at the Davy Hill Community Centre on the evening of 20 August to speak to gathered supporters about their plans.
Marjorie Smith focused on the topic of education, saying the party’s immediate aim is to reintroduce technical and vocational studies, and offer free education to students from nursery to college level.
In the medium term, the party will establish a national scholarship programme, upgrade classrooms and support students with special needs, she said.
“We in the United Alliance are all about equal opportunities – we will not subscribe to any form of discrimination.”
In the long term, the party will carry out a strategic review of the college to make sure it meets the changing needs of the population.
Dwayne Hixon focused on the tourism sector and told those gathered that the party is going to develop more festivals on island and identify boutique hotel developers.
He said the party will be “working around the clock” to push residential tourism, and those already in the industry will be given tax incentives.
Members will also put extra effort into finishing the Little Bay port and will make moves to market the island as a yachting destination, eventually building a yacht marina in Fox’s Bay, he said.
Veronica Dorsette-Hector said that, if elected, the party will reduce the cost of basic goods, provide a reliable electricity supply and advance the production of green energy.
“We are going to provide for you sustainable, safe, affordable, reliable access service both sea and by air,” she added in her passionate address.
Other United Alliance candidates gathered at the event included party leader Reuben T Meade, John Osborne Jr, Dr Ingrid Buffonge, Anne Thomas and Jenzil Sekrritt.
Attendees enjoyed prayer, live music, party merchandise giveaways and a question and answer session with candidates.
Click here to watch the event in full.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article provides impartial coverage of political activities in the lead up to the 24 October general election in Montserrat.
It does not constitute an endorsement of any party or candidate.
