HIGH - LEVEL ADVOCACY FORUM ON STATISTICS Reform of the Statistical Infrastructure in the OECS in response to the Global Crisis July 30 th, 2009, Port of Spain Presented by Curlan Gilchrist Consultant /Director of Statistics Central Statistical Office St. George’s Grenada

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS Outline – Introduction – Reform agenda – Modernize the Statistics Act – Upgrade the national statistical system – Establishment of a strong OECS Statistics Section – Compensation and profile of statisticians – Training

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS -Introduction Global Crisis Effects on the OECS economies Recovery Role of National Statistical Office The case for reform Statistics as a management tool in crisis

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS The Reform Agenda (constraints) Lack of autonomy Inadequate budgetary support Human resource development and training. Motivation of staff

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS The Reform Agenda (constraints) (cont) High staff turnover Weak legal framework Limited application of technology Undeveloped statistic cells in the various line ministries

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS Reform Process: Modernize the Statistics Act private firms to participate privatize certain statistical functions an autonomous body or statutory corporation institutionalize a role for the OECS and CARICOM statistics units

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS Upgrade the national statistical system Technological upgrades Technology in data collection (PDA) Greater use of GIS technology Internet for dissemination National Statistics Advisory Council

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS Compensation and profile of statisticians Revaluate positions Increase pay and grade Career in statistics Continuous training

Reform of Statistical Infrastructure OECS No Action Failed Polices Crisis in Statistics Limited Intervention Status Quo Remains Reform Positive Outcomes C Gilchrist