Submitted by the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy
Heads of Government re-affirmed the goal of free movement of persons as expressed in Article 45 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and that free movement is an essential element of the CSME, but given the current global economic and financial crisis, its full implementation at this point in time will be challenging for some Member States;
They recognised that, notwithstanding challenges from time to time, the free movement of graduates, artistes, media workers, musicians, sportspersons, teachers, nurses, holders of associate degrees and artisans with a Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) has generally been implemented satisfactorily.
Heads of Government also re-affirmed that migration is a human right though circumscribed by national law.
Heads of Government further recognised that in the spirit of the Revised Treaty and the requisites of international law, all migrants should be accorded humane treatment.
Heads of Government agreed that the schedule of free movement of persons within the Single Market would be reviewed at the CSME Convocation to be convened in October with a view to advising on the timetable for full free movement.
They also agreed that household domestics who have obtained a Caribbean Vocational Qualification or equivalent qualification will be allowed to move with effect from 1 January 2010.
Heads of Government further agreed on the importance of training and sensitising Immigration Officers on the implementation of the Region’s approach to free movement and hassle free travel.
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