Douglas: Security breach could have international implications

The security breach at the Robert L Bradshaw Airport last Saturday by St Kitts and Nevis' Minister of Public Infrastructure, Post, Urban Development and Transport, Hon Ian Patches Liburd could result in international ramifications for the twin-island federation.

"We are in an age where international terrorism - I am not saying that the minister himself is an international terrorist - but this is the age of international terrorism and if security officers become confused on who to administer the necessary security checks on, then naturally there is going to be serious issues of security in the future," said the Rt Hon Drr Denzil L Douglas, the former prime minister, who responded to the concerns raised by callers during his weekly radio call in programme on Tuesday night.

Eyewitnesses said that on Saturday, Minister Liburd entered the sterile area with the assistance of a senior airport security official.

In keeping with international rules and regulations the airport security officers informed the minister that security procedures would have to be carried out.

"I was horrified to witness the minister insult the security officers who were professionally carrying out their duties," an eyewitness said Monday night.

Dr Douglas expressed concern about the ramifications of the incident which could deem St Kitts and Nevis "internationally unsafe" and the economy suffers as a consequence of international air safety regulators and airlines withdraw air transportation services to international destinations.

Referring to the report that the minister insulted the security officers who attempted to comply with and follow international regulations, Dr Douglas condemned the "arrogance display and abuse of authority" by the minister on the security officials because they were simply doing their jobs."

St Kitts and Nevis' Robert Bradshaw International Airport is served by international fights by American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Air Canada, British Airways and Sun Country.