{"id":47,"date":"2009-10-22T15:50:01","date_gmt":"2009-10-22T15:50:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/eyecarecaribbean\/2009\/10\/22\/caribbean-quarterly-bulletin-quarter-i-2009\/"},"modified":"2009-10-22T15:50:01","modified_gmt":"2009-10-22T15:50:01","slug":"caribbean-quarterly-bulletin-quarter-i-2009","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/media-items\/caribbean-quarterly-bulletin-quarter-i-2009\/","title":{"rendered":"Caribbean Quarterly Bulletin – Quarter I 2009"},"content":{"rendered":"

Period: January – March 2009 (First Quarter).
 Author(s): Frank Bowen  
<\/strong> <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

1. The operating environment:
<\/strong> 
The operating environment faced a number of issues, including:<\/p>\n

1.1 The negative impact of the global economic recession on the fragile economies of the Caribbean, particularly those Island States that rely heavily on Tourism, as the major industry. Already, several countries have experienced redundancies in the Tourism and related Sectors, consequent on reduced visitor arrivals and declining revenues.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

1.2 Allegations of “fraud” leveled against two major regional Financial Institutions have led to investigations, receiverships and bailouts. The Stanford Financial Group, specifically, the off-shore Stanford International Bank, based in Antigua has been the target of ongoing United States Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigations, with the resulting scandal affecting other companies of the Texan Investor, Sir Allen Stanford. Bank of Antigua (a Commercial Bank) was taken over by a new entity comprising of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank and several Indigenous Commercial Banks in the sub-region, after a run on its assets threatened the country’s financial stability. Other Companies were placed into Receivership, and his real estate holdings compulsorily acquired by the Government. Redundancies have affected hundreds of employees, with others facing an uncertain future. In Trinidad and Tobago, the Regional Conglomerate, Colonial Life (CL) Financial Group, with investments in: Insurance, Banking and Real Estate Development, was forced to seek a bail-out from the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. However, its regional Insurance Subsidiaries (in Bahamas, Belize and Guyana), are currently engaged in legal wrangles after the respective Governments stepped in to safeguard the assets of investors and policy-holders.<\/p>\n

1.3 General Elections, regarded as peaceful, free and fair, were held in Antigua and Barbuda on March 12tth. The incumbent, United Progressive Party (UPP), was returned to office with a slim majority – ten (10) seats to the Opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP) seven (7) seats.  <\/span><\/p>\n

1.4 Preparations are in high gear for the hosting of the ‘Fifth Summit of the Americas’ in Trinidad and Tobago during April 17th – 19th, 2009. About thirty (34) Heads of State and Government, from the Americas, including Presidents Barack Obama (USA) and Hugo Chavez (Venezuela) are slated to attend.
 <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

2. Significant changes to project plans or programme development:<\/strong><\/p>\n

2.1 Caribbean:<\/strong>
 
The prevailing economic environment has forced CCB to reduce or suspend some of its program activities and plans on account of reduction in program funding. Nevertheless, every effort is being made to ensure that core programs in Haiti are not curtailed, given its severe economic circumstances. In the other countries, measures are being implemented to improve efficiencies and source alternative funding through increased resource mobilization.    
         
3. Highlights from selected projects:
 
3.1 CCB Secretariat:<\/strong>
 
·      In an effort to streamline its operations, the Secretariat conducted interviews and has identified a candidate for the position of Program Officer. It is anticipated that the vacant position will be filled during April, allowing the candidate to begin a process of orientation in May.<\/span><\/p>\n

·     The Secretariat completed PADOR Registration (Potential Applicant Data Online Registration) with the European Commission making it eligible for consideration for program funding.<\/span><\/p>\n

·      As part of its ongoing support to CCB, Sightsavers International provided technical and resource assistance for the submission of a Concept Note to the European Commission seeking funding for programs in Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica and St. Lucia. The Concept Note, with emphasis on Human Resource Development (HRD), was submitted on February 10th and its consideration by the EC for a full Proposal, is being awaited.<\/span><\/p>\n

·     The dates for the visit of Sightsavers Staff, Philip Hand and Adam Heeley, to CCB Secretariat and Program Office in Guyana have been confirmed and TOR agreed. Personnel of both Offices are currently reviewing the CAT and FAT Documents and Guidelines, updated Financial Forecasts and introduction of QuickBooks Software in preparation for the visit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Itinerary – Secretariat: Philip: April 13th – 18th, 2009
                   Adam: April 13th – 19th, 2009
Itinerary – Guyana: Adam: April 19th – 23rd, 2009.
 
3.2 Guyana:
<\/strong> 
·    Dr. Rameeza McDonald arrived in Paraguay in early January to take up her scholarship in Ophthalmology. She has commenced Language Studies (Spanish) as a prerequisite to embarking on the Course in Ophthalmology.<\/span><\/p>\n

·    The Refractive Program in Guyana continues to expand with the establishment of additional Vision Centres at: New Amsterdam (Region #6), and Charity (Region #2), while approval has been received from the Ministry of Health for a Centre to be set up at the National Ophthalmology Hospital at Port Mourant (Region #6). The number of Centres in operation stands at nine (9).<\/span><\/p>\n

·    The Certificate in Refraction Techniques, which is in progress, has benefited from the incorporation of Course Notes from ICEE and expertise of CCB’s Executive Director, as part of the Faculty, for the Module in Public Health. The Trainees have now concluded the Theoretical Phase of the Course and will soon begin their Practicum. <\/span><\/p>\n

·    Meanwhile, discussions with the University of Guyana for the accreditation of the Certificate in Refraction Techniques and the establishment of a School of Optometry were advanced with the participation of CCB’s Executive Director. The revised Course Documents were submitted to the University Officials and are awaiting a meeting of the Academic Board, scheduled for April. <\/span><\/p>\n

·    Eye Care Guyana has achieved PADOR Registration with the European Commission, making Programs in Guyana eligible for EC Funding. 
 
·    Preparations are underway for the implementation of a Training Course in Eye Care for Health Personnel (25) in Region #2, scheduled for April 6th – 8th. It is anticipated that this will create greater awareness of common eye diseases and facilitate referral to appropriate levels in the Health Care Delivery System, including the Vision Centre located at Suddie.   
 <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

3.3 Haiti:<\/strong><\/p>\n

3.3.1 A team from CCB visited Haiti during the period January 25th to February 1st, and engaged in a number of activities, including:<\/span><\/p>\n

·    Meeting with CNPC Coordinator, Reginald Paul, to discuss matters pertaining to the operations of his office on Monday January 26th;<\/span><\/p>\n

·    Participating in a Stakeholders’ Meeting, involving – Sightsavers International, CBM, SHAA , CNPC, Society of Haitian Ophthalmologists, and Representatives from participating Hospitals;<\/span><\/p>\n

·    Visit to Gonaives and meetings with Adjustment to Blindness Instructors and Supervisor; visit to the La Providence Hospital to observe the damage to the facility; visit to the Field Hospital currently in operation and consulting wit Dr. St. Gilles; meeting with Representatives of Local Government Agency of Artibonite to discuss the distribution of aid to persons with disabilities, including those who are blind or visually impaired; visit to Primary School to identify space for location of Resource Centre for students who are visually impaired;<\/span><\/p>\n

·    Attending Official Ceremony for hand-over of Adaptive Aids and Appliances by OAS and USAID to Directorate for the Integration of Handicapped Persons;<\/span><\/p>\n

·    Participating with INGOs and CNPC in meeting with the Minister of Health and other Officials, re: recognition and support for CNPC and development of Work Plan.  <\/span><\/p>\n

·    Meeting with officials of SHAA, including Treasurer and Program Manager to discuss program and administrative issues.    
      
3.3.2 In order to ensure its eligibility for EC Funding, SHAA has completed the required registration (PADOR).    
            
3.4 Jamaica:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

·    MRH: Phase Two of Development Project: Discussions are in progress for an appropriate design in relation to the Phase Two of the Project, which will include facilities for an Operating Theatre and a Vision Centre.  <\/span><\/p>\n

·    Establishment of Vision Centre at Mandeville Regional Hospital (MRH): Discussions are ongoing with International Centre for Eyecare Education (ICEE) in relation to the identification of equipment and consumables for the establishment of a Vision Centre at MRH. It is anticipated that the orders would be placed soon to facilitate a start-up by the third quarter.<\/span><\/p>\n

·    In an effort to become eligible for EC Funding, the Jamaica Society for the Blind (JSB) completed the required registration (PADOR).
<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

3.5 St. Lucia:<\/strong><\/p>\n

3.5.1 Seventh Visit of ‘Kids in Sight’ Team:
·    A team from ‘Kids in Sight’ visited St. Lucia during January 24th – February 3rd, and engaged in a number of activities, including: medical, surgical, refractive, rehabilitation, low vision assessments, awareness and sensitization and follow-up. The team also presented surgical supplies, medication and low vision devices, including a Merlin CCTV to the St. Lucia Blind Welfare Association (SLBWA);<\/span><\/p>\n

·    As part of its observance of World Glaucoma Day, Eye Care St. Lucia held an Eye Clinic on March 12th, to sensitise persons who are at risk of developing Glaucoma, and shared appropriate messages in the print and electronic media.<\/span><\/p>\n

·    The Eye Health Officer attached to SLBWA, who is also the Regional Focal Person for Low Vision Services, hosted Sensitisation Workshops for: Blind Cricket Coaches (2) on March 26th; and Special Needs Education Teachers (32) on March 27th.
 
3.5.2 St. Lucia has completed the required registration (PADOR) to facilitate it’s eligibility for EU Funding.
                       
4. Evaluations and impact assessment:
<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

     
5. Partnerships:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

5.1 Antigua and Barbuda Glaucoma Support Group:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

CCB participated in the ‘walk’ to observe World Glaucoma Day held on Saturday March 7th. The ‘walk’ was re-scheduled on account of Antigua and Barbuda’s General Elections being held on March 12th.<\/span><\/p>\n

5.2 CCB continues to work with ICEE<\/strong> <\/span><\/p>\n

re: Development of Modules for the Certificate in Refraction Techniques, through the provision of Course Notes in Public Health. It is anticipated that Course Notes for other Modules will be available soon. Regular teleconferences have been held with ICEE’s Representative, Nelson Rivera, and Philip Hand (Sightsavers).
 
6. In-country Fundraising and Funding:
<\/strong> 
6.1 A Concept Note was submitted to the EC on behalf of CCB, seeking funding for programs in Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, with emphasis on Human Resource
Development (HRD).      <\/span><\/p>\n

6.2 In an effort to identify Foundations to be targeted for fundraising, CCB Secretariat has been engaged in advanced research of Caribbean Foundations, with support from Sightsavers International for similar research targeting Foundations in the US. The findings of the research will be short-listed and used for direct contact re: resource mobilization.
 
7. Advocacy:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

7.1 Website Development:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

·    CCB continues to make progress in the development of its Website with the addition of several new features, including “key words”. It is anticipated that this process will gain momentum during the second quarter.<\/span><\/p>\n

7.2 Blind Cricket:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

·    A Celebrity 25-Over Cricket Match, commemorating Disability Month Celebration in Barbados, was played under the Patronage of the Hon. David Thompson, Prime Minister of Barbados, on March 28th. The Barbados Blind Cricket Association engaged a Celebrity Team that included, Barbados Cricket Legends, Local Clubs, Media Representatives, and an English Player, Roland Butcher. The Barbados Blind Cricket Team emerged winner.   <\/span><\/p>\n

7.3 Presentation to Rotary Club of Antigua – Sundown:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

·   CCB Secretariat joined with the Antigua and Barbuda Glaucoma Support Group to deliver presentations to the Rotary Club of Antigua – Sundown, on Thursday March 17th. CCB’s presentation focused on its Programs in the Caribbean Region and was well received.
 
8. Future events that may be of interest to the Communications Team:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

8.1 Phase Two: MRH Development Project.
8.2 Eliazar Germain Hospital Development Project.
8.3 Establishment of Vision Centres at: Mandeville Regional Hospital (Jamaica) and at the National Ophthalmology Hospital (Port Mourant – Region #6, Guyana). 
                
End of Bulletin.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Period: January – March 2009 (First Quarter). Author(s): Frank Bowen    1. The operating environment: The operating environment faced a number of issues, including: 1.1 The negative impact of the global economic recession on the fragile economies of the Caribbean, particularly those Island States that rely heavily on Tourism, as the major industry. Already, several countries have experienced redundancies in the Tourism and related Sectors, consequent on reduced visitor arrivals and declining revenues.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[75,76,68,67,64,74,72,65,66,77,69,73,70,71],"class_list":["post-47","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-media-items","tag-antigua-and-barbuda-glaucoma-support-group","tag-blind-cricket","tag-cbm","tag-cnpc","tag-eye-care-caribbean-quarterly-bulletin","tag-eye-care-st-lucia","tag-jamaica-society-for-the-blind","tag-pador","tag-refractive-programme-in-guyana","tag-rotary-club-of-antigua","tag-shaa","tag-slbwa","tag-society-of-haitian-opthalmologists","tag-vision-centre-mandeville-regional-hospital"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/47","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=47"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/47\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=47"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=47"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.eyecarecaribbean.com\/site\/ecc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=47"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}