BBC Caribbean News in Brief

Thumbs up for economic union

Former Grenadian Prime Minister Keith Mitchell says the economic union being pursued by member countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) will benefit the people of the sub-region if it is implemented properly.

Mitchell says it is clear that small economies need to cooperate more at all levels to effectively take on global challenges.
OECS governments are holding a two-day retreat in Grenada.

It comes days after the official start of their economic union which commits them to common policies and free movement of citizens and goods across their borders.

Mitchell, Grenada’s opposition leader, told BBC Caribbean that while he has some concerns, he is optimistic that the proposed union will succeed.

Mrs Thompson sworn in

Barbados’ newest MP is expected to be in the country’s parliament today.

The widow of the late prime minister David Thompson took the oath office today – she was sworn in at Government House by Governor General Sir Clifford Husbands.

Mara Thompson won the St John seat previously held by her husband in last Thursday’s by election, retaining the constituency for the ruling Democratic Labour Party.