Outgoing Resident British Commissioner, Lindsy Thompson, has described her
more than four years assignment in Antigua and Barbuda as one filled with much
joy and accomplishment.
Speaking at a farewell social in her honour at Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour
on Wednesday night, Thompson noted that her fist task was to re-establish a RBC
office in Antigua which she achieved with the help of a capable support staff who
helped to navigate the processes of getting things done here in Antigua and
Barbuda.
“As a mission and in partnership with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, NGOs, and other
stakeholders. New roads on Antigua, new power infrastructure being built on
Barbuda. Through UK funding A&B was the first country in the region to have a
Maritime Economy Plan, which officials know will be the source of inspiration and
growth for this fair nation. We have supported Lady Williams and her colleagues
to create the country’s first Royal Commonwealth Society,” she detailed.
The UK diplomat also made reference to the ongoing close collaboration with the
Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force and similar agencies in the UK.
“On defence engagement, Antigua and Barbuda is held in such high esteem it has
received more RN Ships’ visits than any other country in the Caribbean during my
tenure. HMS Medway was a frequent caller, particularly in 2022. Her sister ship,
HMS Trent, was delighted to visit last weekend. Antigua and Barbuda will always
be seen as a welcomed stop for our ship’s crew both personally and professionally.
During each visit there have been many engagements between our forces,
including training at sea,” she explained.
Thompson said she is particularly pleased with what she has been achieved to help
young people in Antigua and Barbuda. “I am particularly proud of the support we
have given to the development of young people in Antigua and Barbuda, whether
its via our world-class Chevening Masters Scholarships programme, supporting
events and initiatives run by Gender Affairs, engagement with the National Youth
Parliament (who got to meet the UK Speaker of the House of Commons last year),
or facilitating exchanges and training between UK and ABDF cadets- which will
have its third iteration this year,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda Governor General, Sir Rodney Williams, praised
Thompson for rekindling the close ties between the UK and Antigua and Barbuda.
“Her tenure brought a refreshing breeze, rekindling the ties that had been dormant
for over a decade since the last British Mission on our beloved islands.
“Commissioner Lindsy's impact spanned across diverse sectors. From health to the
environment, energy and road works, education, culture, and the promotion of the
Commonwealth through various initiatives, she played a pivotal role. Notably, her
efforts in national security, youth development, the blue economy, and her
involvement in negotiating for support for the upcoming SIDS Conference
underscore her comprehensive and dedicated approach to her responsibilities,” he
noted.
Harold Lovell, who represented the UPP at the function, also spoke glowingly
about RBC Thompson and her efforts at securing the many programmes and
initiatives that have benefited Antigua and Barbuda.
Members of the Cabinet were unavoidably absent as the meeting of the Cabinet
went into the night. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the
Ministry of Health, the Barbuda Council, the EAG as well as members of the
diplomatic corps all attended the farewell social.
