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Prime Minister, Freundel Stuart chats with??Garrison resident and historian,??Dr. Karl Watson. (A.Miller/BGIS)??

Property owners in and around the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison were told to make good use of the UNESCO Inscription by employing creative initiatives to boost the attractiveness of their businesses.

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart made this observation today during a breakfast meeting at Hilton Barbados, for owners of listed properties in the area ahead of the official handing over of the inscription certificate by the Director-General of UNESCO.??

In dispelling the notion that the inscription would have a negative impact on what persons may and may not do to their properties the Prime Minister said "one of the reasons for inviting you here this morning is to provide an opportunity for the relevant agencies of government to disabuse you of that notion, and to demonstrate to you that, that is the intention of neither the Government of Barbados nor of UNESCO".

Given this situation, Mr. Stuart urged property owners to familiarise themselves with the history of their respective properties. "Get to know why it is a listed building, if you do not already know this.?? What makes it significant??? Many of you conduct businesses in your listed buildings.?? Why not be creative, and market your business in such a way that reflects the history and the cultural heritage of the buildings??? he asked.

He further stated: "Why not develop innovative strategies to attract visitors to your building??? It is up to you to explore ways of making the inscription work for you."

Noting that World Heritage sites belonged to the "peoples of the world" and were recognised for their Outstanding Universal Value, the Prime Minister said Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, would join the illustrious list of other sites such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame in France; the Acropolis in Athens; the Vatican City in Rome; the Taj Mahal in India; Robben Island in South Africa; and the Ancient City of Damascus.

julie.carrington@barbados.gov.bb

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