Barbadians need to have a greater sense of ownership of their future and their assets, says Minister of Industry, Donville Inniss.
Mr. Inniss, who also holds responsibility for International Business, Commerce and Small Business Development, shared this view while delivering the feature address at the Insurance Institute of Barbados’ 40th Annual Awards Ceremony and President’s Dinner last weekend at the Crane Resort.
He continued: “It does not mean that the State should run away from its fundamental responsibilities, but rather, that able-bodied men and women in society, who are gainfully employed, really ought to get their own policies and pay for them.”
Mr. Inniss emphasised that persons could not continue to believe it was Government’s duty “to step up and assist you when something goes wrong, as you have a duty, first and foremost, to help yourself”.
He also shared his thoughts on the on-going issue of uninsured vehicles, and urged drivers to take the responsibility of purchasing insurance policies.
“In our minds, we may think we are the best drivers, but we don’t know when an accident will occur. Therefore, we need to protect our families and the public at large, and I believe frankly that responsible drivers must have insurance in Barbados,” the Commerce Minister affirmed.
Mr. Inniss congratulated the graduates and awardees gathered on their academic success and for furthering their education.
“Let it be a tool to help you improve yourself, and improve the organisation within which you work. The true test will come with how you apply yourself as an insurance agent or insurance executive in Barbados…thus far we have no reasons to be concerned but let us not rest on our laurels,” he advised.
He also congratulated the institute on celebrating 40 years as the “leading educator of Insurance in Barbados”, and thanked its management for the work done to educate Barbadians about the field.
The Insurance Institute of Barbados first launched its Introduction to Insurance course, now known as the Certificate of Proficiency, in 1976, and, subsequently, added the Barbados Diploma in Insurance to its education roster.
deirdre.gittens@barbados.gov.bb