Cricket fans travelling to the Caribbean for Cricket World Cup 2007 can rest assured about their security as the host countries for the event have put unprecedented measures in place. “Cricket World Cup is the world’s third largest sporting event and we are expecting thousands of people to Caribbean for it. We will ensure that people feel safe and as a result we will implement several security measures,” said Mia Mottley, Deputy Prime Minister of Barbados.

Mottley, who is also the chairperson of the Caribbean Community Sub-Committee for CWC 2007 security, said the region was mindful of the global war on terror for which the security had to be optimal.

“In the Caribbean, it may be considered that we are not at risk for acts of terrorism. However, the reality dictates that we take every step to ensure that we provide a secure environment for the staging of Cricket World Cup,” she said.

One of the cornerstones of the security measures is the CARICOM Special Visa which fans from most countries will need for travel to the CWC 2007 venue.

The visa will be required for travel to the countries between the period January 15 and May 15, 2007.

“The Special Visa is a safety net for cricket fans. In implementing this decision for the visa requirement, the host countries have created a Single Domestic Space which will provide for hassle free movement of cricket fans,” she added.

Visa issuing sites will be located in the host countries as well as Toronto, New York; Miami in the USA; New Delhi, India; Sydney, Australia and London, England.
——-