The final Strategic Objectives Workshop took place at the Consulate Hotel last evening for members of the private sector including the Chamber of Commerce and other non-government organisations.

Just over 25 people were in attendance along with Members of Legislative Council and speakers who had been present at the other workshops.

The format for this meeting was different to the others in that no presentations were given. Instead, after an address by HE Governor Hollamby, persons from the audience were able to put questions to Legislative Council and the speakers.

Many questions were asked, resulting in a debate over funding to achieve the objectives, negotiations with the Department for International Development, inward investment, the need for improved infrastructure and more.

The debate was chaired by the Honourable Speaker, Mr John Newman OBE and this lasted for about 40 minutes.

Following the questions and answers session, the audience divided into two groups to discuss the objectives and to give a presentation.

This was the last of six workshops, four of which had been held for members of the public, and one which was held for the Student Council and years 12 and 13 students at Prince Andrew School.

The workshop for students at Prince Andrew School was well attended and many interesting points were raised by the students who assessed all thirteen of the draft Strategic Objectives and gave their views on what they considered was important.

The workshop at the Half Tree Hollow Community Centre also brought out many interesting views from those present.

Everyone attending a workshop was asked to complete a questionnaire which will show SHG which objectives they consider to be of importance. Although workshops are complete, the Office of the Chief Secretary still has questionnaires available for members of the public who might not have been able to attend any of the workshops. These can be collected from the Receptionist at The Castle and it is hoped that people will take this opportunity to complete one as it will go towards determining the future of the Island.

The questionnaire is important to the public consultation process. It contains the thirteen draft Strategic Objectives and space is also provided for persons to alter the objectives or to suggest new ones. In total, people will be able to put forward six objectives which they believe are crucial to the future development of the Island. These could include those suggested by Councillors or they could be different.

SHG will analyse all questionnaires and the analysis will help determine what the Objectives for St Helena will be.