Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Shirlene Nibbs

Nearing the completion of a five year contract as Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Shirlene Nibbs has decided to chart a different track and part ways with the Ministry to return to her private practice as top executive within Nibbs and Associates.

Nibbs, in a formal letter to the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Tourism, Delcine Thomas, has indicated that she does not wish to have her contract renewed upon its termination on October 31st 2005.

Prior to this, the Director General will proceed on a 39 day vacation leave commencing on August 19th, which would embody the remaining days of the five year contract.

"I have enjoyed the role, the challenges and opportunities to serve my country very much, and will always have fond memories of my tenure." Nibbs relates.

"I am still excited at the prospect of being beckoned into the future by a compelling vision of a world class tourism product which appropriately represents the image and ideals of our people…and will continue to serve my country in any way possible to achieve this vision.", she concludes.

According to Minister of Tourism the Hon. Harold Lovell, the outgoing Director General brought a high level of technical competence to the table and she was of tremendous value to the ministry because of this.

"The management and staff of the Ministry of Tourism wish her every success at Nibbs and Associates and we assure her that her hallmarks of excellence and professionalism will remain molded in the operations here at the Ministry", he continued.

On an administrative level, Permanent Secretary Delcine Thomas reports on Nibbs as being focused and supportive and as such they worked well together.

"For me personally I find Shirlene to be understanding, keen to listen and discuss issues and eager to embrace guidance. She set standards and insisted that they be maintained. I feel very saddened by her decision to leave but it must be respected!"

When contacted Minister of Social Transformation and former Minister of State within the Ministry of Tourism, the Hon. Hilson Baptiste stated that during his tenure he found Nibbs to be a real asset.

"She motivated staff so that they would be able to produce at the highest level," Baptiste said.

Director of Product Development within the Ministry of Tourism, Lorraine Headley will act in the position of Director General as of October 31st, until more permanent arrangements are made.

For further information contact:

Samoya Kirby
Communications Officer
Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation
773-1788 (cell)
462-0480 (office)
460-6093 (fax)
samoya.kirby@antigua.gov.ag