Dr Pickering speaks to UN @ Ocean Conference in NY
The Ocean conference, which was held between June 5-9, 2017 was held to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 14 – Conserve and sustainably use the Oceans, Seas and Marine Resources for Sustainable Development, according to a BVI London Office Press Release.
VI on board to protect the Ocean
In his address, the veteran local politician first elected to the Virgin Islands (VI) House of Assembly in 1999, told the international community “we wholly support the implementation of SDG 14. As a microstate surrounded by water, I can truly say that the sea means everything to us. It is a source of food, culture, livelihood, health, and more especially, our well-being. The sea also serves as inspiration, transportation and a driver of economic activity. We have an intimate relationship with the sea that is at the heart of our development and identity as a people.”
In addition, according to the press release, Dr Pickering welcomed the commitment by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean to provide the VI with technical assistance for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
In the Deputy Premier’s presentation, he said “I am pleased to report that the United Nations at the regional level has been responsive to the needs of microstates such as the Virgin Islands. The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean has selected us as one of the first round of countries in the region to receive technical assistance for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals,” the Minister for Natural Resources said.
Back to face the music
However, he further called on the United Nations to provide greater support from across its various agencies to Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) that are Associate Members of the regional commissions.
Dr Pickering has since returned to the VI where he will be peppered with questions at the June 13, 2017 Sitting of the House of Assembly by Third District Representative and former Opposition Leader Hon Julian Fraser RA.
Note
The live recording of the VI’s statement in plenary at the UN Ocean Conference can be found online at UN Web TV (begins 2 hrs 09 min into recording) at: http://webtv.un.org/search/part-1-the-ocean-conference-5-to-9-june-2017-7th-plenary-meeting-saveourocean/5466173912001?term=oceans
10 Responses to “Dr Pickering speaks to UN @ Ocean Conference in NY”
coral reefs. But no--- we allow private businesses to pump up coast line for personal gain-- many without permits or surveys. These are the regulations that should be implemented if the minister wants to put his money where his mouth is. Then again, maybe he is MAKING money by not challenging environmental violations. He can't talk out of both sides of his mouth. Unfortunately, I do not find him that committed by example. Matter of fact, I don't find anyone in this government other than the stressed out CFD trying to oversee development that might harm our oceans with its erosion.
Keep it up Doc. Need my children and grandchildren children enjoy out ocean either by sports or food or both....