THE Guyana Times of June 30 carried an article titled Health Drain: Illegal immigrants now a burden, says Barbados Minister.

In this article the Barbados Minister of Health stated that other regional leaders who are criticising Barbados immigration policy should “mind their own business in respect of this matter. They should do like Barbados and fix their economies and get them to the point where their citizens do not feel the need to run away.”

Mr. Editor, permit me to express my total disgust at the Minister’s statement. Coming from a senior government Minister of a CARICOM member country, his statement reflects blatant disrespect for the leaders of other CARICOM countries and confirms that that island has no interest in contributing to Caribbean unity.

Does this mean that Barbados is totally self-sufficient and has no need to maintain relations with other member states? Or does it mean that it can exist in a vacuum?

This seems to be the clear message that Barbados is sending to its fellow regional member states because when any Minister of Government speaks he/she does so on behalf of the Government.

It is only logical for the reader to assume that the Minister’s statement reflects the view of the Barbados Government because to do otherwise would be opposing its policies.

Telling other regional leaders to “mind their own business” reflects grave hypocrisy on Barbados’ part because they are supposed to be part of the group but are taking positions that state otherwise.

Such statements by a member country are totally unacceptable and contribute little to the voice of CARICOM. They also explain why the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) is still to be implemented.

I am very disappointed by this statement as I am sure most Guyanese are, because we appreciate the significance of CARICOM and acknowledge President Bharrat Jagdeo’s support and dedication to this cause.

I would like Barbados to review its position in CARICOM and adopt a position that is reflective of a member.
L. DANIELS