Access to the Government?

Recently, it was announced that the government had appointed an ombudsman. The act is a first for the Federation. More importantly, it seems to indicate an acknowledgement among elected officials that the voice of the consumer and voter must be heard and not just during elections.

St. Kitts, gladly, is joining a growing number of Caribbean countries that have appointed ombudsmen, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, Belize, Dominican Republic and Haiti.

See http://www.jis.gov.jm/justice/html/20040512T180000-0500_2536_JIS_OMBUDSMAN___AN_INSTITUTION_PROTECTING_THE_RIGHTS_OF_CITIZENS.asp

Admittedly, we are all aware of our country’s history of partisan politics and the act may be seen as no more than a shell attempt to quell critics that say little is known about the government’s actions, spending and decision-making process. I don’t wish to delve into that particular argument. That’s the job of the political opposition.

Meanwhile, this is a significant move which I would like to celebrate, even if only for a moment. I would urge Kittitians to make the best use of this new government official. While he has been appointed by the government, he answers to the people. As Merriam Webster defines it, an ombudsman is:

“A government official (as in Sweden or New Zealand) appointed to receive and investigate complaints made by individuals against abuses or capricious acts of public officials”

“One that investigates reported complaints (as from students or consumers), reports findings, and helps to achieve equitable settlements”

Ask questions, put your displeasure or satisfaction on the record, demand the results of hearings, reports and travels.

In other words, make the government answer to YOU!.

Can you go home?

Recently, I went to an accountant to complete my taxes (Sidenote: first time I had to do that ... but owing a state over $1,000 would certainly encourage anyone to seek professional help). Anyway, I digress. Going back to my original point, my accountant made a comment, who interestingly is a native of Antigua, which gave me reason to pause.

In our casual conversation he asked, ‘Do you plan to return home?’ My answer was quick and assertive. ‘Of course, as soon as I finish my education.’ A few weeks have passed since that conversation. However, the question still resonates. Now, I have somewhat changed the question to ask: Can I return home?

If we are truthful with ourselves, we all want to go home. Home is, after all, where the heart is. But we are forced to ask ourselves, can we go home? Are there opportunities? Is the environment conducive to your professional and personal growth? Can you contribute?

I know too many friends who struggled on their return home to find jobs, secure positions that would utilize their skills and qualifications and then build a career. It’s a tough choice for young professionals. While I long to give back to my country, I am hesistant to make a choice that stymies my growth.

Admittedly, I don’t have answers to these questions. Rather, I pose them to the other young professionals at home and abroad.

Can we go home?