Nevis Tourism Authority celebrates 10th Anniversary
(CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS–WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30TH, 2011) Premier and Minister of Tourism in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), the Hon. Joseph Parry congratulated the Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) for its 10 years of sterling service to the island’s Tourism sector.
In a congratulatory statement the Premier said, ”Heartiest commendations to the Nevis Tourism Authority as it celebrates 10 sterling years of marketing and promoting the destination of Nevis to visitors and investors as a haven of distinctive and genuine Caribbean authenticity, inhabited by some of the friendliest people on earth.”
According to the first Nevisian CEO of the Authority Mr. John Hanley, within just one year of its establishment, the marketing efforts of the NTA resulted in an impressive 41percent in visitor arrivals to Nevis. Under the pioneering efforts of its first CEO, Ms Helen Kidd and its strong ‘Nevis Naturally brand’, the NTA had clearly positioned Nevis as a niche, up-market, environmentally friendly destination, which set it apart from other small Caribbean destinations, as a paradise with authentic West Indian charm.
Despite global economic and other challenges, the Authority provided solid marketing support for the island’s vital and resilient tourism sector since 2001.
A host of congratulatory statements reached the NTA in recognition of its 10th anniversary from a host of tourism partners and well wishers including the Ministry of Tourism.
“The Ministry of Tourism congratulates the Nevis Tourism Authority on 10 splendid years of solid performance. The NTA has stood out as a beacon during some of the toughest years for tourism in recent history.
“Through it all it has continued with undimmed enthusiasm in its efforts to remain true to the ideals of Nevis Tourism,” said Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Mr. Tyrone O’Flaherty.
Chairman of the Board of Directors at the NTA Richard Lupinacci also spoke of the organisation’s efforts to promote Nevis as a unique destination.
“The Tourism industry of Nevis and St Kitts and all of its stakeholders – investors, employees and Nevisians, should recognize the efforts that the Nevis Tourism Authority has made to promote Destination Nevis. In the 10 years of its existence it has greatly participated in positioning Nevis favorably in the highly competitive international tourist market.”
Mr. Jamie Holmes Manager of the Nisbet Plantation Inn, also offered his congratulations to the NTA and spoke of their partnership.
“Congratulations to the Nevis Tourism Authority on their 10th Anniversary. Nisbet Plantation is proud to be a partner with this wonderful group of ladies and gentlemen responsible for putting Nevis on the map. We look forward to many more years of gracious hospitality marketed by a group of warm and friendly Nevisians!” he exclaimed.
Mrs. Rosecita Jeffers Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, sent a congratulatory remark to the CEO of the NTA in recognition of both agencies close collaboration.
“In recognition of our close collaboration and the strong bond of friendship between our sister agencies, let me take this opportunity to congratulate you and your team at the Nevis Tourism Authority for reaching such a major milestone.
“I believe that you have accomplished a great deal in these short few years and we wish you continued prosperity as you seek to build on the successes of these past 10 years,” she said.
A formal function will be held in early April to recognize the outstanding contributions of the hardworking NTA staff, particularly Ms. Charmin Jeffers, Ms. Angelique France, Ms. Yvette Jackman, Mr. Devon Liburd and Mrs. Jacqueline Hanley, who have worked with the NTA since its inception.
Special recognition will also be given to Mr. Richard Lupinacci and Ms. Jeanette Grell-Hull who served on the Board of Directors since 2001, as well as Ms. Helen Kidd for her pioneering efforts.
The NTA’s tenth anniversary coincides with the hosting of the TriStar Triathlon Event, the first of its kind to be held outside of Europe. The events will be held from March 27 – April 2, 2011.