Antigua and Barbuda Launch New Tourism Authority

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. February 16, 2009

FEBRUARY 16, 2009 - The Antigua and Barbuda Tourist Office has launched the new Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority. The Authority will be headed up by Colin C. James, an Antigua and Barbudan national, as the appointed CEO.

The Tourism Authority has been founded by the Ministry of Tourism to become a central body for promoting the islands and to create a cohesive environment between all overseas tourism offices.

The Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Harold Lovell comments, "The launch of the new Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority is a welcome addition to our country. Colin James's experience in the private sector will be invaluable in helping us enhance our many unique selling points to overseas visitors."

Colin C. James comments, "I'm extremely delighted and excited about the opportunity that has been afforded to me to serve my country in this capacity. The global financial crisis has resulted in unprecedented challenges which are affecting Antigua and Barbuda at this time. However, our country is in a unique position to combine the experience, skills and talents of our people, working with our key industry partners, to ensure the continued sustainability and success of our tourism sector."

James's primary role will be to direct and coordinate all marketing and communications efforts, both on island and overseas. Antigua and Barbuda will be positioned as a destination that offers a wide array of facilities, activities and events and marketed as one that is attractive, elegant and renowned for its service quality. In the UK, he aims to intensify a loyalty and product training programme.

Colin James served with distinction as General Manager of PDV Caribe Antigua & Barbuda Ltd, since March 2007. Prior to this he served as Chief Executive for Cable & Wireless St. Lucia, the largest of the Cable & Wireless East Caribbean businesses. Mr. James previously held the position of Chief Executive of both Cable & Wireless Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis.

The new Tourism Authority is housed at the Antigua Commercial Bank Financial Center. Mr. James and his staff will host an open house for industry partners, government officials and other officials in the private and public sector to ensure constant communication during challenging economic times.