Edmund Hinkson, the former Member of Parliament for the St James North constituency, paused his campaign activities for a few days to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival over the past weekend. 

In an interview with Barbados TODAY on Sunday, he expressed his desire for the private sector in Barbados to unite and recreate a similar event here.

“Any festivity that we have that can boost our tourism product [is important],” he said. “As I understand it, the government of Saint Lucia fully supports this festival…. You would also prefer that there is private sector interest in something like this rather than always having to rely on the government. But something like this, I am sure we can get one back.”

Reflecting on the regional camaraderie at the festival, Hinkson added: “I see the Caribbean as one! I can go into any CARICOM country and be accommodated. It is always great to be in Saint Lucia and enjoy the festivities. I am happy to be here and obviously people from other Caribbean countries are here to support as well because we must keep working together.”

After arriving in Saint Lucia last Saturday, he added that he would be back to work as soon as his two-day getaway was over to return to campaign for the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) candidate, Chad Blackman.

“Of course I am taking a two-day break from the campaign, but I am going back home tomorrow (Monday) and continue with the by-election campaign,” a smiling Hinkson said.

Hinkson submitted his resignation letter to Parliament last month after serving as parliamentary representative for St James North for three consecutive terms. 

However, the former Minister of Home Affairs and chairman of the Advisory Committee for Improving the Lives of People with Disabilities emphasised his ongoing commitment to serve the nation and the BLP in any capacity required. 

Hinkson was first elected to the House of Assembly in the February 2013 general election.

tracymoore@barbadostoday.bb