Heeding to a request by Trinidad and Tobago, the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have agreed to have the issue of the reappointment of Dr Carla Barnett as its Secretary General referred to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) for judicial review.

The Chairman of the CARICOM, and Prime Minister of St Lucia, Philip Pierre made the announcement today as the regional leaders continued with their meetings.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar objected to Dr Barnett’s reappointed – a position she maintained on Monday as the Heads of Government met for a retreat. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar contends that the process was flawed, and submitted that the matter be deferred to the CCJ. 

“CARICOM acknowledged that the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago desires to have the issue of the reappointment of the SG referred to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to render an Advisory Opinion thereon. To facilitate this request, the Community agrees to commence proceedings to secure such advisory opinion in accordance with Article 212 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. The Community acknowledged that this is the very purpose for which the CCJ was created – to be a treaty interpretation body,” Prime Minister Pierre said.

He said in the interim, the status quo with respect to the re-appointment of the Secretary General shall remain unless and until the Community considers the advisory opinion from the CCJ.

“The Community agreed that this way forward allows for this matter to be resolved in an amicable manner, without prejudice to the ability of the Community to conduct its affairs,” the CARICOM Chairman said.

Prime Minister Pierre said CARICOM also reaffirmed that the ongoing review of its governance architecture will strengthen its governance and enhance its effectiveness.

“The Heads of Government further underscored that this process does not impugn the integrity of any Member State or individual; rather it reflects the Community’s collective commitment to continuous institutional improvement with the highest standards of good governance,” the CARICOM Chairman said.

The Heads of Government, during the meeting, also reaffirmed their commitment to the ideals and objectives of the Community, and vowed to move forward in unity and advance the interests of the Region during these difficult times.

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