Premier Ellis Webster spoke fondly of Anguilla, its people and its potential in a heartfelt New Year address in which he said the island is standing “on the brink of greatness”.
Read his address in full below:
“Fellow Anguillians, residents and visitors. As we embark upon this New Year, we envision endless possibilities, and draw one day closer to realising the Anguillian dream.
“In today’s moments of reflection and renewal, we thank God for spared lives, protection from pandemics and hurricanes, and mindfully celebrate our shared achievements and hope for a brighter future.
“As an island community, we renew our collective commitment to each other and to the journey of building a stronger, more progressive, and prosperous nation.
“Fellow Anguillians, last year, you faced challenges, local and global, with courage, embraced opportunities with determination, and carried this island forward with pride and resilience.
“Your unwavering spirit inspires the hope and determination that define us as a people.
“In spite of these challenges, we initiated policies and projects which contributed to human development and economic progress.
“We celebrated the 50th anniversary of carnival, the Family Reunion, in the new Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre.
“The construction of the new airport terminal at Clayton J Lloyd International Airport got underway.
“There were advances in healthcare, education and sports, including increased scholarships and infrastructure projects such as the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School new classrooms and IT Lab, and the Blowing Point Sports Complex.
“We enhanced social safety nets, such as social security, pensions, minimum wage; provided electricity subsidies, and instituted tax reforms such as removal of property tax from homes and removal of GST from food.
“Also, there were significant expansions in farming and fishing for food security and economic diversification.
“This year, let us focus on progress – not as a distant aspiration but as a purpose for today.
“Every decision we make, every step we take, and every effort we invest can make a tangible difference in the lives of our people right now.
“Progress begins with us, in the actions we choose to take today to improve our schools, grow our industries, strengthen our communities, and uplift those in need.
“With integrity and purpose, we will build on our strengths, overcome all obstacles, and strive to leave a legacy of progress for future generations.
“Further commitments to human development and economic growth in 2025 will include: the Junior Shield Programme, National Health Insurance, community centres, playgrounds and sports facilities in several districts, a state of the art medical complex, the Technical and Vocational Education Training Centre at Campus Q, improved road networks, a private sector pension programme, further enhancements in agriculture and fishing, and renewable energy.
“Looking to the future, I am filled with confidence in our shared potential.
“Together we can continue to overcome challenges, seize new opportunities and contribute to building a nation of prosperity and promise for generations to come.
“Anguilla stands on the brink of greatness.
“We must have this unshakable resolve to ensure that every child can succeed, every business can thrive, and every family can live with dignity and hope.
“This is the time to arouse the dreams and aspirations of every Anguillian, here and abroad. This is when leadership and representation matter.
“Leadership in times like these demands clarity, purpose, performance, stability, continuity, and unwavering commitment to the people we serve.
“I believe deeply in the potential of Anguilla and the people who call it home.
“May this year bring peace to our hearts, strength to our communities, and prosperity to our land.
“Let us embrace the opportunities ahead with the courage to create lasting change and build a future we can all be proud of.
“Through 2025, may we be guided by hope, inspired by innovation, and grow sustainably together. Sail On.
“On behalf of your government, I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. May God bless you and continue to bless Anguilla.”
Watch the premier’s New Year address in full below:
