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In this issue we look at climate change as it affects all of us individually and
as a business community; how we can adopt strategies to reduce our carbon
footprint. Gibraltar may be a small community and yes, our effect on the
world’s changing climate is likely to be negligible, but we all need to do our
part, not just for now but for future generations as well. It is not acceptable to
just shrug our shoulders and say that what we do as individuals will make no
difference at a global level.
Every change starts with individuals making the first move. Let’s be part of it
and do what we can.
The treaty talks look to set for a repeat performance of last year’s New Year’s
Eve drama. Only this time there will be more lasting substance. Gibraltar’s
business community has extended the hand of cooperation to the Government
and has set out its red lines of what would be desirable and what would be
disadvantageous to Gibraltar’s economy. The Chamber has also reiterated
these points to the Government on a number of occasions over the last five
and half years since the EU referendum. At some point the talks must deliver
an outcome because the business community needs greater certainty about
Gibraltar’s future in order to plan and make decisions about investment and
future strategies.
Like others, the Chamber awaits the outcome of the negotiations and will
consider the detail of what is announced before making any public comment.
Something which is worthy of public comment and closer scrutiny is the
efficiency in the civil service. The lockdowns and restrictions may have been
lifted and this has enabled people to circulate more freely and go back to the
workplace. However, the majority of the public counters remain closed. The
article on page 11 looks at how the numbers employed in the public sector
has increased enormously since 2011 but service levels do not seem to have
improved at all. How is this possible? Let us know what you think.
If there is an issue which is adversely affecting your business and you think that
the Chamber may be able to help, contact us and we will see what we can do
for you. Over the years many members have found that the Chamber has been
very helpful in resolving issues which have previously proved to be intractable.
Contact the Chamber if you think we can help.
As we approach Christmas the Board would like to extend its best wishes to all
of our members with the firm hope that 2022 will bring a year of stability and
prosperity as we continue to adjust to the new normality