Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has acknowledged that former Consul General to Toronto, Fitz Huggins, exceeded the permissible duration of his diplomatic posting in Canada. Gonsalves revealed that Kingstown had requested an additional three-month extension for Huggins, which was granted by the Canadian government until the end of September. This development follows speculation within the Vincentian community in Canada regarding the abrupt conclusion of Huggins’ 12-year tenure. Gonsalves addressed the matter on NBC Radio, refuting claims by the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) that Huggins was dismissed, emphasizing that his government did not terminate his role. He clarified that Canada imposes limits on the duration of consular postings, and Huggins had surpassed this period. Huggins, who served with distinction, had sought additional time to complete ongoing initiatives, prompting SVG to request an extension from Ottawa. Gonsalves highlighted that similar regulations exist in the United States for diplomatic personnel. Huggins, in a Facebook post on October 2, hinted at legal action against detractors while expressing gratitude for his assignment and community support. His tenure was marked by contributions such as sending medical supplies and decommissioned vehicles to SVG, though he was also embroiled in controversy over the purchase of a government-leased vehicle. Gonsalves defended Huggins’ actions, noting that the vehicle was acquired at a higher cost than the lease terms, saving SVG money. Huggins’ appointment in 2013 was seen as a political compromise, as he had initially sought to become the Unity Labour Party’s candidate for East St. George in the 2015 elections, a position ultimately secured by the Prime Minister’s son, Camillo Gonsalves.
PM confirms Canada asked that Huggins be removed as CG
