Falklands : Successful Familiarisation Visit By Two Officials
Submitted by Falkland Islands News Network (Juanita Brock) 04.02.2008 (Article Archived on 18.02.2008)
Ms Mariot Leslie and Mr Andrew Jackson have visited the Falklands to see what the place is like and to meet the people.
Photo (c) J. Brock (FINN) Ms Mariot Leslie and Mr Andrew Jackson.
SUCCESSFUL FAMILIARISATION VISIT BY TWO OFFICIALS
Ms Mariot Leslie, left and Mr Andrew Jackson, right.
By J. Brock (FINN)
Ms Mariot Leslie, Director General, FCO and Mr. Andrew Jackson, Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy, Buenos Aires have completed a week-long familiarisation visit to the Falkland Islands.
While in the Falklands Ms Leslie and Mr Jackson visited a wide variety of Government Departments and businesses as well as attending a business meeting with the FI Chamber of Commerce Board. Also included in the programme was a lengthy discussion with Councillors, a visit to Camp and a reception at Government House. They also visited Mount Pleasant and toured the facilities, including a visit to HMS CLYDE.
At Gilbert House Ms. Leslie discussed the main view of the Falkland Islands by Councillors, what the constituents think, the way ahead and what is important to Councillors.
Among the impressive things seen by both were the number of new buildings and investment as well as schools, the Leisure Centre and the number of new businesses.
An important priority for both is Disaster management, especially with the number of cruise ships visiting the Antarctic. The Falklands would be a key player in rescue efforts. As it is, there must be two cruise ships in one area of the Antarctic at the same time so a rescue can take place should there be an accident.
Fisheries, Mineral Resources and Minefields also topped the discussion list with Councillors. Minefields at the moment are topical with arguments for and against their removal in the Falklands. These are being taken onboard. Councillors and the FCO are working on the best way forward on this issue.
Ms Leslie took a 90 minute tour of Ascension Island while in transit to the Falklands. While there she met with the US and UK Base Commanders as well as the Island’s Administrator mr. Michael Hill.
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