Plans have been unveiled to build a Caribbean culture centre.

The centre would include an auditorium, library and other facilities.

The proposal was aired at the annual general meeting on Saturday of the West Indian Association (WIA). Association president Trevor Fyfe also suggested that his organisation change its name to the Caribbean Association.

He cited the ongoing movement towards Caribbean integration, Bermuda's moves towards becoming an associate member of Caricom and the Association's commitment to being more inclusive.

“I think we have grown to the point where we need to do things which are in keeping with what is happening,” Mr. Fyfe said.

“I think we have grown beyond the name the West Indian Association. I think it's about time we consider renaming ourselves and calling it the Caribbean Association. It's a much more inclusive name. It doesn't deter you whether you speak Spanish, you speak French, you speak Dutch. It encompasses everybody who is in the Caribbean sea... It cuts across all barriers and opens up membership to just about everyone who hails from the Caribbean region.”

The suggestion generated some spirited discussion but received general approval from the membership - with the exception of a vocal few. And some demanded that the president thrash out all proposals for constitutional change with the organisation's executive and then consult the membership.

“Why is it that among us in the Caribbean community there are some that still hold to the long outmoded and negative practice of insularity,” Mr. Fyfe said in a prepared statement. “What respect will you garner, and what progress do you expect to make here in Bermuda, especially at a time when Bermuda is about to join the Caribbean community? Those who continue along this path of self destruction will never be taken seriously, as their behaviour is contrary to progress and extremely retrogressive.”

He continued: “Recently, there have even been rumblings of efforts to form Trinidadian and Bahamian associations. What is wrong with us ? Will we never learn ? When will we wake up to the fact that Caribbean integration, at home and abroad, is no longer a whim or a luxury but a downright necessity ?''.

He added it was appropriate to celebrate national identies. ‘'But for God's sake let us do it under the umbrella of Caribbean unity - one Caribbean Community.” Mr. Fyfe said he would work on a five year plan for the culture centre., to be run by the WIA.