PDMs from throughout the Islands converged on South Caicos for a two day national convention. This was the first time in over two decades that a Convention was held in South Caicos. The annual event serves to review the platform of the Party, to set the agenda for the road ahead and then to hold Elections.

 

Under the theme: “Commitment Without Excuse”, members engaged in sessions that were geared toward crystalising the vision of the late J.A.G.S. McCartney with the vision of today’s leaders. The sessions proved exciting, fulfilling and educational. The social, economic and political scenes were compared to today. Attending delegates had the benefit of hearing from Party Stalwarts and relatives of the late J.A.G.S McCartney who recounted stories of his and their exploits. Members were also present who journeyed with McCartney on his last visit to Washington before the fatal plane crash. The Convention deduced that many of the ills that are faced today have reverted to the 1970s condition, changed form or not changed much since then. It was then important to recall the dream and the vision and plan the road ahead for the year 2014 and beyond. Possible solutions were mapped which require members to be committed without excuse and committed to the vision.

 

Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson and Hon. Sean Astwood were returned as party leaders along with the majority of the existing team which included Hon Clarence Selver as National Chairman and Cynclair Musgrove as Secretary General. A convention committee was appointed to spearhead the planning for the 40th anniversary which is to be held on the island capital of Grand Turk, where the PDM movement all started. The Grand Turk delegation are enthusiastic about their task! 

 

PDMs were encouraged to recommit themselves to the cause and the vision without excuse.