Antigua: --- Yesterday marks another milestone for management of Windward Islands Airways (WINAIR). The company managed to sign yet another agreement with the Governments of Antigua, and Barbuda yesterday on that island. That contract has a two year life span.Accompanying the management team of WINAIR headed by Captain Edwin Hodge was Minister Roland Duncan who represented the Central government, shareholders of the local airline who have been operating within the Windward Islands for the past 42-years.
The signing ceremony was dubbed as a historical moment both for WINAIR and the islands who sought the services of WINAIR. Representing WINAIR are Edwin Hodge, Managing Director, Fernando William Chairman of the Supervisory Board and Minister Roland Duncan. Representing Antigua and Barbuda was the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Harold Lovell and Honorable Trevor Walker the Parliamentary Representative of Barbuda.
Prior to the signing Managing Director of WINAIR Edwin Hodge in his address said the signing of the agreement signifies the establishment and certification of an intimate relationship between the company and the government of Antigua and Barbuda. "This day is not just a day to be remembered by the staff of WINAIR but it is also a day that will be remembered by the government and people of Antigua." Said Hodge.
He said WINAIR has made a commitment and dedication to the people of the twin island, since they are determine to enhance and continue to provide an exceptionally high level of service to both islands.
He said when the company announced earlier this year that they were ready to add Montserrat and Barbuda to their growing destinations many had questioned whether they were indeed ready and capable of delivering a service with great satisfaction. He said management silenced their critics as they continue to receive numerous commendations with the services they have provided thus far.
Parliamentary representative for Barbuda Trevor Walker thanked WINAIR for coming their rescue when they thought it was difficult for them to bridge the gap when they received notice from Carib Aviation who gave them one month notification on the seizure of their operation in an out of Barbuda. "The good will of WINAIR definitely brought relief to the people of that island." Walker said WINAIR was able to provide services to them within one month of their request and he hopes to further strengthen their relationship by seeking to have WINAIR provide direct flights from Barbuda to St. Maarten.
He commended the technical assistants from both sides who worked tirelessly in putting together a rather solid contract. He felt the new marriage will open doors for Barbuda while creating greater opportunities to the rest of the region. He said he felt the island now has an opportunity to even conduct business outside of Antigua. Chairman of the supervisory board of WINAIR Fernando William said despite the short notice the company managed to mobilize their forces to put this package together which involved several parties.
He said he certainly appreciated the speed in which the government of Antigua and Barbuda along with the management team of WINAIR managed to put together a package that benefits all parties involved.
He also recognized the cooperation given by Shareholder representatives Minister Roland Duncan whom he said made sure the necessary financing were in place for this milestone.
While Minister Duncan said he intends to use the newly signed contract as a yardstick to negotiate in the best interest of the company. He said the company has young and enthusiastic men and women working for them thus they can continue to look forward for his support.
Minister Harold Lovell said yesterday's ceremony marks the end of the courtship and the beginning of a new marriage. He said the most difficult task that lies ahead is for them to make their marriage work. He described the agreement as excellent partnership agreement for all parties involved who have certain obligations that has to be honored.He said the government of Antigua and Barbuda will be providing the guarantee as well as concessions and incentives to WINAIR with the aim of making the partnership work. Lovell gave credit to Walker whom he said worked tirelessly with the management team of WINAIR to get a contract together. He credited the technicians who worked on the agreement which he described as outstanding.
