He said the improvements were directed at enhancing the structural facilities and at delivering a more efficient service to travellers.

One of the major highlights, Xavier pointed out, was the vast improvement to the airport overall for the reception of Heads of Government and delegations for the CARICOM Summit held in Georgetown in July last year.

He said the supply and installation of a new X-ray machine and a walk thru metal detector for passengers and carry on baggage were completed. These facilities were also installed at the VIP Executive Lounge.

The Terminal Building, the VIP Lounge, the Incoming and Executive Lounges were also rehabilitated. Landscaping and upgrading of lawns and gardens were also done, the minister pointed out.

Xavier said that significant improvements have been made in the airport cleaning and maintenance services, airside maintenance, air conditioning maintenance service, and garbage disposal service.

These improvement works created employment for seven airport duty officers. In-house training sessions on the operation and maintenance of the new X-ray equipment were conducted for the relevant staff and personnel.

The minister reported that the general improvements resulted in a 50 per cent increase in revenue collection for 2002. Revenue earned last year amounted to $257M.

Car park fees were revised in August 2002 and revenue for this area has increased three-fold, he revealed. This source of income will see an additional $12M being added to the Government's coffers yearly, he said.

Passenger statistics for 2002 surpassed those for 2000 and 2001, the minister also reported.