NationWIDE THE OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE GOVERNMENT OF

NationSATURDAY JUNEWIDE 18, 2016

Another New Beginning!

Marius Modeste photo

Saint Lucia has started another new beginning. After its third electoral change of government in as many elections, the new administration n named after the June 6 poll took office eight days later, with the swear- ing-in ceremony for the new Cabinet of Ministers in Vieux Fort. The new Governor General and Queen’s Birthdays ministers took office as of Wednesday, each using the opportunity to Celebrated - Page 2 met the staff they will work with. Prime Minister Allen M. Chastanet, sworn-in on June 7, promised in Vieux Fort this past Tuesday that his Saint Lucia Is One Of The World’s Top Three new administration will not govern in any old way, but will instead take Wedding Destinations - Page 3 new approaches to old problems. Following the brief election cam- paign, peace has returned. Winners and losers have accepted the ir- New Tourism Minister Hits The Road Running! - reversible results and it’s back to normal. Current regional and global Page 4 trends offer not many reasons for optimism. But nearly every Saint Lu- cian will wish the new government well, in pursuit of its pledges to do Diplomatic Congrats Pour In for New Government - better. Most will also be heartened by the new Prime Minister’s pledge Page 9 “to make Saint Lucia the best place to live, to invest and to visit.” This issue of Nationwide continues the weekly tradition of keeping Saint New Health Minister To Fast-track Lucia, the Caribbean and the rest of the world informed on the works New Hospitals! - Page 10 of government. Apart from new news updates, this edition also carries a special package covering the public Cabinet swearing-in ceremo- Jeanelle Scheper Just Keeps ny (See Pages 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9). Read on and enjoy another informa- On Flying High! - Page 10 tive package -- and don’t forget to watch Nationwide TV on NTN and browse the official Nationwide Website atsaintlucianationwide.com

Happy Reading! Happy Viewing! Happy Browsing! WHAT’S INSIDE

Page 2 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 P.M. Congratulates G.G. Saint Lucian selected rime Minister Allen Chas- tions for the 90th birthday of at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Friday, for International Youth tanet, in one of his first Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. June 10. Pacts in office, expressed Dame has Locally, the Office of the Gov- Leadership Forum his congratulations and best been Her Majesty’s Vice Regal ernor General celebrated these wishes to Her Excellency, Gov- Representative in Saint Lucia two milestones with a Service of ernor General Dame Calliopa for the past 19 years, the longest Celebration at the Minor Basil- Pearlette Louisy, on the occa- anyone has served in that posi- ica of the Immaculate Concep- anaries native and youth sion of her 70th birthday. tion. tion on June 17 and a Charity leader Vernet Longville The accolades came two days In the United Kingdom, along Event, a Vintage Garden Party Cwill soon be taking the after the general elections on with other Governors Gen- on Sunday, July 19. trip of a lifetime to Lyon in Wednesday, June 8, 2016. Her eral from the Queen’s realms, Her Excellency returned to France to represent Saint Lucia Excellency was the United Dame Pearlette attended sev- Saint Lucia on June 13, ahead of and the Caribbean at a presti- Kingdom on her birthday, to eral events, including a service the swearing-in of the cabinet of gious international youth fo- participate in official celebra- of celebration and thanksgiving Ministers this week. rum. Ms. Longville, a young teacher at the Canaries Infant School, has been selected to take part The Blind pay tribute to GG on her birthday as a Sacred Sports Foundation youth leader and organiser for resident, Officers, Mem- the street football world Inter- bers, Staff and Clients national Youth Forum, as part of of the Saint Lucia Blind the massive Festival 16 event. P This all expenses paid unique Welfare Association extends best wishes to Patron of the As- opportunity is supported by sociation Governor General Her the German Foreign Ministry Excellency Dame Pearlette Lou- and the Sacred Sports Founda- isy on the occasion of the 70th tion (SSF), whom she has, vol- Vernet Longville Birthday, recently celebrated on unteered with for a number of June 8, 2016. years. young people and teach them In a recent press release the The International Youth Forum life skills. Association has paid tribute to kicks off on June 28th to July 7th, It connects grassroots initia- the Governor General for her 2016, during which time Ms. tives and amplifies their impact immeasurable commitment, Longville will learn new organi- working with 100 organisations and unwavering passion she sational skills and jointly help from over 60 countries that support the implementation of has demonstrated in the inter- use football to tackle issues in the Festival. est of the blind and visually im- health, education, gender equal- Streetfootballworld’s Festival ity and more. paired in Saint Lucia. 16 will bring together 500 girls Sacred Sports Foundation Dame Pearlette in May deliv- and boys from disadvantaged (SSF) was accepted for member- ered a national message on the communities from all over the ship in 2013 and remains the occasion of Blindness Aware- globe, chosen not for their skills only member of the network in ness Month in which she reiter- on the pitch but rather their the English speaking Caribbean. ated the importance of invest- commitment to changing the The festival will take place in ing in the youth. world through football. the heart of Lyon and will be Blindness Awareness Month At the core of the event is an jointly organised by Sport dans was held under the theme: exciting football 3 tournament la Ville and street football world. “Empowering today’s youth, to- – a unique way of playing the This will be the biggest Youth morrow’s leaders, by promoting game that incorporates key life Forum organised by this global an inclusive society” Governor General of Saint Lucia, Her Excellency Dame Pearlette Louisy. lessons into every match. Edu- network ever and is a unique cational workshops and cul- lifetime opportunity for the tural workshops will also fea- Canaries native, which will see ture prominently, enabling the her participate alongside youth Saint Lucian to receive Queen’s young participants to develop leaders from around the world new skill sets and apply them in all expenses paid!. their local communities. Ms. Longville is expected to Young Leaders Award next week The streetfootballworld or- present a workshop on child ganisation is headquartered in safeguarding, an area she has Berlin and is an international assisted Sacred Sports Founda- er Majesty The Queen network of non-profit organisa- tion with during her programme will present a Queen’s tions that use football to engage efforts with the Foundation. HYoung Leaders Award to eight exceptional young peo- ple from the Eastern Caribbean at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace, London next week. The ceremony will take place on Queen's 2016 Birthday Thursday 23rd June. The Young Leaders from the Eastern Caribbean are: Regis Honours announced Burton from Antigua and Bar- buda, Firhaana Bulbulia from he Queen has been graciously pleased on the occasion of Barbados, Shamelle Rice also Her Majesty’s Birthday -- and on the advice of Her Maj- represents Barbados (?), Tina esty’s Saint Lucia Ministers, to approve of the following Alfred from Dominica, Ali T Honours in the Birthday Honours List, 2016: Dowden from Grenada, Trevis tives at the BBC World Service. my Award while using the op- Belle from St Kitts and Nevis, They will also meet the Com- portunity to network with fel- C.B.E. /Commander of the British Empire Tevin Shepherd from St Lucia monwealth Secretary General, low Queen’s Young Leaders. and Dillon Ollivierre St Vincent take part in workshops at the This is a great honour and it will -- Richard Neville Clairmont PETERKIN (For services to the and the Grenadines. University of Cambridge, have change my life in a very impact- private sector and sports administration) As the Commonwealth cel- meetings with UK business ful way.” ebrates The Queen’s 90th birth- leaders, and visit projects that This year’s Award winners are O.B.E./To be Ordinary Officers of the Civil Division of the day, this year’s Award winners, are changing the lives of vul- working to support others, raise Most Excellent Order of the British Empire all aged between 18 and 29, are nerable people in the UK. awareness and inspire change --Truscott Ronald Georges HINKSON (For services to music) being recognised by The Queen Thousands of young people on a variety of issues including -- Brian Bartholomew LOUISY (For services to the public and for taking the lead in trans- from all over the Common- education, climate change, gen- private sectors) forming the lives of others and wealth applied to be a Queen’s der equality, mental health and making a lasting difference in Young Leader and were selected improving the lives of people M.B.E./To be Ordinary Members of the Civil Division of their communities. As Queen’s through a competitive process. with disabilities. the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Young Leaders, they will be Tina Alfred from Dominica The application process to representing the Eastern Carib- said: “I am looking forward to become a 2017 Queen’s Young -Timothy Montgomery MONDESIR (for services to music) bean as they join winners from Residential Week so I can learn Leader opens on Friday 24 June - Denis Telford SAINT CLAIRE (For services to sport) 45 different Commonwealth new experiences and new Ideas 2016. The programme is looking - Felicia MC. FARLANE (For services to education) countries in London for five and share my experiences and for people aged between 18 and - Deland Jerome ST. JULES (For services to Music) days of high-level engagements, ideas with the most exceptional 29 who are dedicated to creating all designed to help them fur- people from around the world. positive changes to the lives of B.E.M./British Empire Medal (Civil Division) ther their life-changing work. I am definitely looking forward people in the sub-region. - Veronique ALEXANDER (For services to young people in Before receiving their Queen’s to meeting such exceptional Details about how to apply to education) Young Leaders Award at Buck- young people from around the become a Queen’s Young Lead- - Denis LAURENT (For services to business) ingham Palace, the winners will world!” er, together with information - Rosemary JULES (For public service) visit 10 Downing Street and the Ali Dowden from Grenada about the 2016 Award winners - Agatha FEVRIERE-CHARLERY (For services to education UK headquarters of global so- said: “I am looking forward and Highly Commended run- and the community) cial networking company Twit- most of all to meeting Her Maj- ners up, is available atwww. ter, and meet with senior execu- esty The Queen and receiving queensyoungleaders.com. Saturday June 18, 2016 NationWIDE Page 3 New Prime Minister and Cabinet take office after public swearing-in ceremony in Vieux For Nationwide News Briefs Pierre to be next Opposition Leader

on. Philip J. Pierre has been recommended by elected members of the (SLP), to be- Hcome Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition. Pierre was unanimously recommended by the SLP’s six elected mem- bers. The Castries East MP is also the first Deputy Political Leader of the Labour Party. On the night the SLP lost the June 6 general elections, Party Leader and Prime Minister Doctor announced he would step down and would not be the next Opposition Leader. Dr Anthony also formally resigned as SLP leader. The move paved the way for a National Council of the party to endorse Pierre. A formal letter inform- ing the Governor General has already been dispatched. Former Labour Leader comforts supporters! Former leader of the SLP, Dr. Kenny Anthony, has urged his sup- rime Minister Allen M. Chastanet last Sunday revealed the new Saint Lucia Cabinet of Minis- porters to wipe their tears away and remain hopeful their party ters during a public swearing-in ceremony at the Philip Marcellin Ground in Vieux Fort. The new will return to office in the future. “I ask that you wipe away your Cabinet was sworn-in by Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, with the Oaths of Office ad- tears, dry your eyes and lift your heads. I am at peace with myself, P my country and the world. Be calm,” he said. Dr. Anthony also con- ministered by Cabinet Secretary Darrel Montrope. The Prime Minister addressed the ceremony, during which he revealed, among other things, his immediate plan to seek an update on the state of the national gratulated and his United Workers Party on the finances from the Finance Ministry, as well as promotion of jobs in the cruise industry and establishment victory at the polls on June 6. “On all accounts, this was a convinc- of a cruise port in Vieux Fort. (More on the Special Cabinet Swearing-in ceremony and related events on ing victory. It is clear there was a major national swing against the Pages 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.) Saint Lucia Labour Party. I wish the people of Saint Lucia the very best, as we embark on this new journey,” he said. The former PM will serve as the Vieux-Fort South MP. Saint Lucia voted among Top 3 Most Romantic OECS observed 35th Honeymoon Destinations in the World! Anniversary he OECS Commission observed the 35th Anniversary of the sub-regional community this week with several ac- Ttivities. On Thursday, it hosted the first-ever OECS Stu- dents webinar which was also facilitated by the OECS Commis- sion. The webinair featured the views of students from across the OECS as they shared their views with the OECS Director General, Dr Didacus Jules. The event took place at the Castries Room of the OECS Commission on Morne Fortune on Thurs- day morning. On Wednesday, a church Service was also held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Castries. Police Commended for Election Day work

he Royal Saint Lucia Police Force says it would like to thank all Police Officers for their dedication and commit- t. Lucia is no stranger to high placements in travel reviews and blogs as the island’s high quality attrac- Tment during the 2016 General Elections. Polling day was tions have been attracting an increasing numbers of visitors. Thus, there was no surprise when the island observed without any serious incidents. The Police Force would was voted third by well-renowned Brides Magazine in the category of “Most Romantic Destination for also commended the citizens of Saint Lucia for their overall S good conduct during the General Elections. Honeymoon Travelers”. St. Lucia placed after French French Polynesia and Italy and was voted above Maui (Hawaii), South Africa, the Maldives, Mexico, Fiji, Kauai (Hawaii), Seychelles, Jamaica, Greece, Turks and Ca- icos, British Virgin Islands, Bali, Thailand, Hawaii (the big island), Nevis, France and the Dominican Republic. LGBT group reacts to mass Saint Jude advances surgical techniques shooting at Orlando gay club local gay rights group has said the recent mass shoot- with laparoscopic workshop ahead of ing in a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, which left Adozens of people dead, should encourage law makers Caribbean Surgeons Conference in the region to remove existing laws which discriminate. Ben- nett Charles of United and Strong has said the region must act aint Jude Hospital has been collectively and remove laws, which promote hate and learn to hosting prominent surgeon accept all people, regardless if they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or SProfessor Dilip Dan here, for trans-gender. Charles said the act of terror and hate was not a a three-day workshop aimed at de- crime only against Americans or LGBT people, but humanity. veloping surgical laparoscopic tech- The rights activist said gays and lesbians in this region often niques that started earlier this week. go to some of these developed countries seeking freedom to The laparoscopy workshop ran express who they are, but noted that this is just one example of from June 13 - 15, with surgeons things that they are likely to face. from Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Trinidad, and Barbados performing three op- erations daily. Monday’s session was headed by Professor Dan. Bus drivers want to discuss The workshop comes ahead of the 14th annual conference of the The hospital hosted a laparoscopy workshop aimed at developing transport sector policies Caribbean College of Surgeons surgical techniques. which will take place from June us drivers want to discuss policies for their sector with 16-18 at the Coconut Bay Beach The Premier and Minister of tice of surgery. the new Government. The disclosure has come from the Resort & Spa in Vieux Fort. Health of Turks and Caicos, Dr. Laparoscopic surgery, also President of the National Council on Public Transporta- The conference will feature a Rufus W. Ewing, is among those known as keyhole surgery, allows B tion (NCOPT), Godfrey Ferdinand. Ferdinand said there are a variety of presentations from expected to be in attendance. surgeons to use small incisions number of agreements with the former government that bus a cadre of distinguished local, The annual conferences have guided by a camera to perform drivers would like to see maintained. He revealed that the regional and international sur- enabled the Caribbean College operations. The result is more cos- NCOPT had an agreement with the former administration for geons, ranging from the manage- of Surgeons to help increase the metically appealing since it leaves an immediate increase in bus fares should the price of fuel go ment of gastro-intestinal bleeds quality of surgical care for pa- minimal scarring. beyond a certain level. He stated that other agreements with and updates on the latest technol- tients in the Caribbean via a glob- Saint Jude Hospital first began ogy in cancer diagnosis and man- al mix of experiences that contin- performing laparoscopic surgery bus drivers included the non-payment of route permits for a agement, to advances in trauma ues to raise Caribbean standards in February 2016, affording the three year period and a tax amnesty. and burn management. and education in the art and prac- treatment to citizens in the south. Page 4 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 PM to address Chamber of Commerce National Workers Union wants to meet new Prime Minister Annual Congress

on. Allen Michael Chas- Trinidad and Tobago who will sentations will include Port- tanet, recently elected also be addressing the Annual folio Reports – on industrial HPrime Minister of Saint Congress of Delegates at the relations and mobilization, Lucia, will address over 100 Royal by Rex Resorts commenc- education, finance and interna- delegates at the upcoming Na- ing from 9.00 a.m. tional relations. tional Workers Union Annual The Congress will be held un- Resolutions and election of Congress of Delegates. der the theme “Trade Unions a new Central Committee to The Prime Minister will join must defend social and eco- administer the affairs of the Hon. Jennifer Baptiste-Primus, nomic benefits won by the Trade NWU for the 2016-2017 pe- Minister of Labour and Small Union Movement”. riod will conclude the day’s Enterprise Development of At the closed session the pre- proceedings.

Tourism Minister hits the ground running and visits Bevedere Plantation Chamber Executive Director Brian Louisy he Saint Lucia Chamber of He said he did not see the Commerce, Industry and chamber’s agenda changing, al- TAgriculture has written a though the board has not met to congratulatory letter to Prime discuss the situation. Minister, Allen Chastanet, seek- Louisy noted that the organi- ing a meeting to discuss issues zation will continue pushing for of mutual interest. an improvement in the business Asked about PM Chastanet’s environment. declaration that his ruling party He felt that that it was abso- will eventually remove Value lutely essential that some of Added Tax (VAT), the Cham- the bottlenecks, administrative ber’s Executive Director, Brian hurdles and constraints that af- Louisy, said it was an “interest- fect the economy should be ad- ing” proposal. dressed. “We would like to see the de- Louisy observed that unem- tails and hear more about it,” ployment remains an extremely Louisy stated. bothersome issue. According to him, the Cham- He disclosed that the Cham- ber has always felt that there are ber of Commerce wants to work some issues in the VAT as it ex- with the government to bring ists, that the private sector body minds together to find ways to found “bothersome.” address the matter. “We have had an ongoing “We think it is a burning is- programme of engagement sue,” Louisy said. John Kennedy, Boka Group's CEO and Saint Lucia's new Minister for Tourism, Dominic Fedee with the Ministry of Finance He noted that another issue of at Belvedere Plantation to look at addressing these is- concern related to the process sues and we certainly are in- of legislation being enacted, the aint Lucia’s new Minis- pacity for the Island. Prime Minister Chastanet, last terested in seeing and hear- consultative process and the ter for Tourism, Dominic We have a common goal of in- week, I conveyed our commit- ing how the government’s process of engagement of inter- SFedee, has hit the ground creasing the number of 5* rooms ment to bringing new room ca- proposals will unfold,” he ested parties. running by visiting Boka offered to the international mar- pacity into the market as soon asserted. “We would like to see the pro- Group’s property at Belvedere ket and at the same time creat- as possible and to working to- The Chamber Executive Direc- cedure of bills being published Plantation, the location of the Is- ing new local employment. gether for this common objec- tor said the private sector insti- before, so there is time to view land’s first CIP Approved Hotel “Belvedere Plantation will tive, in the interests of both our tution looks forward to working them, make comments and then development, near Canaries, as preserve the historic Mahaut investors as well as the local with the government and mov- move forward to the enactment his first task since being named Estate, with only 9% low-den- work-force”. ing the country forward. stage,” Louisy observed. in his new post. sity build, and 91% of the prop- Tourism Minister, Dominic The Minister accompanied erty remaining as an active Fedee said ”Our Government Boka CEO, John Kennedy, to the Plantation, providing up to 800 has already pledged its support site, which also sits in his new jobs for our neighbouring com- for this project, we need more Taiwan President looks forward to Parliamentary Constituency of munities in Belvedere, Bouton, rooms and this development Anse La Raye Canaries. Canaries and beyond. is going to be one of our prime working closely with new government John Kennedy said, “I am “As the first approved CIP products in Saint Lucia. pleased that the Minister and Hotel project in Saint Lucia we This site gives the developer a Following is the full text of a report on the message I have had occasion to discuss want to look at every opportu- tremendous opportunity to cre- from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen to the new this project on-site and in some nity to make Belvedere Planta- ate one of the best tourist con- detail and am encouraged by tion as attractive as possible to cepts in the world and this will government following the 2016 general elections, as the priority that he has pledged discerning global travellers. be a show-case development of released by the Embassy of Taiwan in Saint Lucia.. to help us deliver new room ca- “During my meeting with Saint Lucian diversity. resident of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Dr. Tsai PIng-wen, extends her con- gratulations to Prime Minister King says evaluation will be his first Allen Chastanet on the victory of the United Workers Party at the Saint Lucian general election of order of business in his new ministry June 6, 2016. In her letter to Prime Minister Chastanet, President Tsai states nfrastructure Minister Ste- frastructure up to standard. that Saint Lucia and Taiwan share phenson King has said that He described as a “novelty”, the same democratic values and an evaluation of his new PM Chastanet’s announcement many similar experiences with I national development, an area ministry will be the first order of cluster portfolios in the new in which the two countries have of business. cabinet of ministers. become indispensable partners Speaking after he was sworn Mr King asserted that with through close cooperation. President. Tsai Ing-wen in as Minister of Infrastructure, a senior and junior minister President Tsai looks forward to Energy and Labour in the new working together, several min- working closely with the newly- bonds with Saint Lucia to be fur- Allen Chastanet led adminis- istries have been grouped un- elected government of Saint Lucia to ther cemented for the betterment tration, the Castries North MP der one roof. enhance the cordial ties and friend- of mutual benefits. pointed to the need to settle “It is now to see how the ex- ship between the two countries. The congratulatory letters were down and get a true evaluation periment works to produce Premier Lin Chuen, head of the relayed to the new government of of the ministry. greater efficiency and increased government’s Executive Yuan, Saint Lucia by Ambassador Ray Mr King also said there was productivity – that will be the also conveys his best wishes to Mou, Embassy of the Republic of need to assess infrastructure and hallmark of the success of the Prime Minister Chastanet, and he China (Taiwan) in Saint Lucia. conduct an audit to determine Infrastructure Minister new configuration,” the former expects Taiwan’s comprehensive (More congratulations on Page 9 ) what is required to bring the in- Hon. Prime Minister said. Saturday June 18, 2016 Page 5

New Cabinet Takes Office!

rime Minister Allen Chastanet on Tuesday named the members of his Cabinet at a swearing in at the Phillip Mar- Pcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort. The ceremony confirmed the executive arm of the Government of Saint Lucia that will manage the affairs of the nation for the next five years, or until such time as the Prime Minister deems necessary. The new Cabinet of Ministers 1. Allen M. Chastanet – Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, Economic Growth, Job Creation, External Affairs and Public Service 2. Dr Gale Rigobert -Minister for Education, Innovation, Gen- der Relations and Sustainable Development 3. Ezechiel Joseph – Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Cooperatives 4. Stephenson King – Minister for Infrastructure, Ports, En- ergy and Labour 5. Guy Joseph – Minister of Economic Development, Housing, Ur- ban Renewal, Transport and Civil Aviation 6. Lenard Montoute – Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Em- powerment, Youth Development, Sports, Culture and Local Government 7. Edmund Estephane – Minister within the Ministry for Eq- uity, Social Justice, Empowerment, Youth Development, Sports, Culture and Local Government 8. Senator Hermangild Francis – Minister for Home Affairs, Justice and National Security Prime Minister Allen Chastanet leads the new Cabinet of Minister 9. Senator Mary Isaac – Minister for Health and Wellness 13. Senator Fortuna Belrose – Minister within the Ministry for 10. Bradley Felix – Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Equity, Social Justice, Empowerment, Youth Development, with responsibility for Commerce, Industry, Investment, En- Sports, Culture and Local Government terprise Development and Consumer Affairs 11. Dominic Fedee – Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister 14. Senator Ubaldus Raymond – Minister in the Ministry of with responsibility for Tourism, Information and Broadcasting Finance 12. Jimmy Henry – Minister within the Minsitry of Agriculture, 15. Herod Stanislas – Minister within the Ministry of Economic Fisheries, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Development, Housing, Urban Renewal, Transport and Cooperatives Civil Aviation Page 6 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 Saturday June 18, 2016 NationWIDE Page 7

New PM and Cabinet sworn-in with one objective: Making Saint Lucia The Best Place to Live, Invest and Visit! — Story and Photos by Marius Modeste —

he official swearing- ministers and three newcomers The new PM said his adminis- in ceremony for the and several ministries were re- tration will pursue cooperation Tnew Cabinet of Min- configured, with many also re- and collaboration with social isters took place Tuesday named. Several of the new min- partners, including the labour afternoon in Vieux Fort. isters have also been attached to and business sectors. The historic ceremony, ministries. He offered special thanks to the first held outdoors, Prime Minister Allen Chas- his wife and children, his father was attended by local tanet, who had earlier been and mother, for all blessings, and foreign dignitaries, sworn-in on June 7, addressed as well as his two sisters and including Grenada Prime the ceremony, which was broad- brother. Keith Mitchell, St Kitts cast live. He also thanked friends who and Nevis Prime Minis- He described the event as a lent a help hand and offered ter Timothy Harris and very important milestone and support. former St. Vincent and the step for his new government. Prime Minister Chastanet said Grenadines Prime Minis- He said it was continuing his administration will not gov- ter Sir James Mitchell. something started months ago ern in the same way, with too Also present was Mon- when his party held a People's many people going to bed hun- sieur Yan Monplaisir, Vice Parliament, by way of a public gry and to have to struggle and Ptesident of the Martinique meeting in the William peter survive. Regional Council and Pres- Boulevard in Castries, to debate He said his administration ident of the Florida Carib- the budget. will instead govern with focus bean Cruise Association He said that was seen as the and indicated he had cut the (FCCA) Michelle Paige. beginning of the new dispo- overall number of ministries Several religious min- sition and quickly became a from 14 to 8 and created clusters isters said prayers at the people-oriented campaign, so of teams to focus on issues fac- event, including Pastor he felt it would be wrong for the ing the country. Sherwin Griffith of Wesley- government to forget it evolved The PM said Competitiveness, an Holiness Church, who from the people. Productivity and Capacity must opened the ceremony, and The new PM said his new Cab- be three major buzz words that Catholic priest Fr Lambert inet ministers would not have must guide all his ministers. St Rose, who said prayer for been standing there taking oath He emphasized his govern- new PM and Cabinet, call- of allegiance if not for the vot- ment was interested in intro- ing on God to bless them to ers, so it was also important to ducing new and innovative govern properly. hold ceremony in the south. ways of encouragement for That was followed by He said the country faced Saint Lucians -- and indicated a prayer for govern- the highest level of unemploy- that while Bob Marley was the ment and people by Pas- ment at present, but it was also greatest Caribbean innovation, tor Lewis Paul, a song by the greatest opportunity for he was of the strong view that Shirley Ann Cyril for the growth, so he and his new gov- the next one will come from new Cabinet and a spe- ernment are committed to make Saint Lucia. cial thanksgiving prayer that change. He said the new change began by Mrs Leonne Theodore The new PM said he was also that night with the ceremony John. deeply touched be the overall out- planned for the South, also The Oath of Allegiance pouring of support and thankful sending a loud message that his was taken by the new for the opportunity to serve. government intended to make Cabinet, followed by the He said he was eager and ex- Saint Lucia the best place to live, swearing in of the new cited too, to get to task of build- to invest and to visit. Cabinet ministers, in their ing a new nation. The new PM said he will meet respective portfolios. He admitted that he challenge FCCA President Michelle Paige The Governor General is hard, but said that with sup- to show her where the new ad- issued warrants of ap- port of people, he will get to ministration wants to locate the pointment for Senators, rebuild the Saint Lucia brand, new cruise ship pier in Vieux welcomed the crowd and depending on the qualities that Fort and to revive a program for outlined the provisions made this island a unique Ca- jobs on cruise ships. for appointment of the ribbean nation. He also indicated NICE re- new PM, his ministers and Mr Chastanet said he wants to sources will be used to pay senators. be remembered as the PM who tuition for training for jobs on Five Senators were ap- brought back a sense of pride to cruise ships and the plan is to pointed in the persons of Saint Lucia and assured that the use the empty factory shells to Me Ubaldus Raymond, confidence in his party was well provide the training so Vieux Mrs Fortuna Belrose, Mr placed. Fort people will not have to go Hermangild Francis, Mr He also said he was eager to up to Castries for such training. Jimmy Henry and Mrs deliver and equally eager to sit PM Chastanet ended his ad- Mary Isaac. with the Ministry of Finance to dress reiterating that it is the Among the new Cabi- find out what is the real state of intention of his party to make net ministers were seven economy and what obtained as Saint Lucia the best place to live previous government of June 6. in the Caribbean. Page 8 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 Ruling party victory rally was ‘Grateful and Gratifying!’ or the ruling United The United Workers ran be- Workers Party, last Sun- cause we care about the nation, Fday’s victory rally was the working class, the poor, the an historic celebration of joy vulnerable and the forgotten. and gratitude. According to a Our message has always been UWP Press release, thousands about working for the people of members, supporters and and helping everyone of this na- well wishers journeyed across tion. the island to Micoud to receive We now have a huge responsi- thanks from their candidates, bility ahead. Our job is not done. as the UWP brought the cur- Our job has just begun, with tain down on the 2016 election thousands waiting for our poli- campaign. cies and programmes to come After a heated political season, on stream. the United Workers Party said When a country votes for it was thankful that its message healthcare for every man, wom- was embraced by so many Saint an and child, for employment, Lucians. for empowerment, for education The statement said, We look and for a better economy, it sig- forward to working with all nals that a political sea change Saint Lucians to bring about the has occurred. We look forward change that so many of you told to making a decisive difference us you desired. in the lives of all Saint Lucians. Celebrations were bright and alight in Micoud last Sunday. New PM says he will never LPM Leader forget who put him there… Backs Cabinet rime Minister, Allen Chas- tanet, has paid tribute to Pthe people’s campaign — By Samuel Sukhnandan — which resulted in his party’s 11-6 election victory. “We were only following you and we said that we will be your servants,” Chastanet told a huge crowd at last Sunday’s victory rally in Micoud North. He said he was reminded of a man from his constituency who told him: “Mr. Chastanet, I put you there and don’t forget that!” The Prime Minister declared that he will not forget. New Prime Minister Allen Chastanet Chastanet recalled meeting some people opposition support- and wanted something fresh. and its leader are bad. ers who asked his opinion as to Chastanet told the rally that “The people of Saint Lucia said why the party lost the election. the opposition never had a mes- they were not going to eat that He said he told them that the sage for the people of this coun- anymore,” the new Prime Min- people of this country were tired try, except to say that the UWP ister declared.

King says new government will deal with VAT Therold Prudent, LPM Political Leader ow that Prime Min- cia News Online (SNO) that ormer Prime Minister, ister Allen Chastanet it would be wise if Chastanet Stephenson King, has Nhas named his cabi- explain to the nation his ratio- Fdeclared that the ruling net, persons have been coming nale for the decision. United Workers Party (UWP) forward to critique his deci- “It seems that basically he will deal with Value Added Tax sion to reconfigure the various has hogged or taken on ev- (VAT). government ministries. ery single ministry there is. It The party had promised dur- Adding his voice to this is may be that he has someone ing the last election campaign to Lucian Peoples Movement for the External Affairs Minis- eventually remove the measure. (LPM) Leader, Therold Pru- try. Like other countries in the King, who reclaimed his dent, who said it may be too world, we don’t see a sitting Castries North seat by a huge early to state whether the prime minister holding that margin in the last elections, ac- reconfiguration will be ef- ministry because most prime knowledged that the UWP has fective or not, explaining ministers would require to be made promises to the electorate. that Chastanet and his team home, to see that things are “We have said to you that we should be allowed to work going right,” he added. will do certain things; we said first. The LPM leader feels that we will deal with the VAT and “If it is meant to help the Sarah Flood-Beaubrun may we will deal with the VAT,” he country then i’m saying yes be appointed Minister of Ex- told a victory rally last night in to it. And one should not be ternal Affairs. Micoud North. Infrastructure Minister Stephenson King addressing the UWP quick to try to judge what is As it relates to the Minis- King said that he was commit- victory rally last week. happening here. Until they try for Equity, Social Justice, ted to working with the political have gone to work and we are Empowerment, Youth Devel- leader of the UWP, Allen Chas- the UWP says to the party to go but also a record of the biggest able to assess how things are opment, Sport, Culture and tanet and the party team to deal out and work with and in the margin ever in the history of shaping up, then…but its pre- Local Government, Prudent with the problems Saint Lucia is interest of people of Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia. mature to try to judge what said he believes that this min- faced with, including VAT. King expressed thanks to the King acknowledged that he is trying to do here,” Pru- istry is basically the Ministry He told the audience that al- people of his Castries North people tend to lose hope very dent said. of Sport and he finds it a bit ready rumours were being Constituency, whom he ob- quickly. The LPM leader continued, strange that three ministers spread about infighting within served had come out with a ven- But he said that tomorrow he “I know there are those in have been appointed to this the UWP. geance on the day of the general starts the process of building on the Saint Lucia Labour Party, one department. But he asserted that as long elections. their hopes. who would still believe that The LPM, he said, will be as he is within the party, there “They said that there was Prime Minister, Allen Chas- they should be able to dictate a major voice in the next five will be no infighting because no one who can come in King tanet, will then officially an- to Allen Chastanet what his years and will have zero toler- the political group is commit- Country and hope to win any nounce the composition of the government should look like, ance for any form of corrup- ted to serving the people of this election,” he told the massive new cabinet of ministers. but its his house.” tion and victimization. Pru- country. crowd. King disclosed that his philos- While he admitted that the dent said he hopes that the “The mandate which you have The former Saint Lucia Prime ophy is that if one wins by one appointment is a bit different new government will work given us, we cannot squander,” Minister said not only had his hundred votes, the next time and it may be viewed as a bit for all Saint Lucians. (Cour- the former Prime Minister stated. constituents set a record of a around the margin must be two puzzling, Prudent told St. Lu- tesy StLuciaNewsOnline) He said the mandate given to margin of victory of 2,292 votes, hundred. Thursday June 18, 2016 NationWIDE Page 9 The Diplomatic Courier PM to pursue better transport Grenada congratulates new Saint Lucia government renada’s Prime Minister, deepen the traditionally close links with Martinique Dr. Keith Mitchell, has relationship that exists between Gextended congratula- the two countries, as they work rime Minister Allen Chas- tions to the new Prime Minister together for the betterment of tanet wants to improve of Saint Lucia, Hon. Allen Chas- the two nations, and the region transport links between tanet and the United Worker’s as a whole. P Party for their victory at the According to Dr. Mitchell, the this country and Martinique. Mr Chastanet told reporters polls in last Monday’s general leaders of CARICOM today are shortly after being sworn in as elections. “serving at a defining moment, as Saint Lucia’s new Prime Minis- In what Prime Minister Mitch- each of the individual countries ter, that he is not happy with the ell referred to as a “convincing face severe economic challenges. standard of the ferry service, in victory,” he urged the incom- “We have a unique opportu- terms of the terminal here. ing prime minister to use the nity to forge a new path for our “It is going to be one of the first considerable confidence that the countries’ futures; and even things that we are going to be people have placed in his party while we work to do so within addressing,” he disclosed. “to chart the course toward our own borders, the spirit of The new Prime Minister re- a new era of governance and regional collaboration must vealed that he also intends to growth.” prevail.” address the issue of air trans- Prime Minister Mitchell as- Grenada’s New National Party, portation between Saint Lucia sured the new leader that Saint Dr. Keith Mitchell urged the which is led by Dr. Keith Mitch- and Martinique. Lucia has the continued com- incoming prime minister to ell, is a sister party to the United “The cost of flying between Prime Minister Allen Chasenat mitment of the government and chart the course toward a new Worker’s Party, under the Carib- people of Grenada to further era of governance and growth. bean Democratic Union. Martinique and Saint Lucia rently only one flight daily. is prohibitive.” Chastanet ob- He said he will be moving served, adding that there is cur- quickly to deal with the situation. OECSVenezuelan Commission President welcomed congratulated and OECS Commission welcomed and Saintcongratulated Lucia following new government General Elections congratulated new government Following is the full text of the message from Venezuelan president Nicolas maduro, following the 2016 general elections.

resident of the Bolivar- ian Republic of Venezuela, PNicolás Maduro Moros, on behalf of the Venezuelan people, congratulates the People of Saint Lucia for the holding of a peaceful and fair General Elec- tion on June 06, 2016. The OECS Commission warmly welcomed the newly-elected In the same way, we congratu- Government of Saint Lucia into the OECS family. late the United Workers Party he OECS Commission ear- the government and people of its (UWP) and its leader, Mr. Allen lier this week extended continued commitment to service Chastanet, on the support and Theartiest congratulations to and to the promotion of the coun- trust received from the people the newly-elected Government of try’s interests as a member of the of Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia and Prime Minister OECS Economic Union regionally The Bolivarian Government re- Allen Chastanet, following the and internationally. affirms to the new Government electoral victory of the United In this regard, the Commission of Saint Lucia its unquestionable Workers Party at the June 6 gen- recommits to working closely willingness to continue work- President Nicolas Madura Moros eral election. In a statement, the with the Government of Saint ing together in order to deepen Commission said Lucia in furtherance of the objec- the already excellent relations This time is propitious to reas- ribbean brothers, as this is part The Commission is heartened by tives of the country and of the or- of friendship and brotherhood, sure the worthy people of Saint of the indispensable historical the peaceful conduct of the elec- ganization. relations based on the principles Lucia that our country will al- legacy left to us by our Com- tions and commends the electorate The OECS Commission takes of mutual respect and solidarity ways extend a friendly hand, mander Hugo Chávez. Long live and the political parties for the re- the opportunity to express sin- that exists between our Nations. without condition, to our Ca- the people of Saint Lucia! straint and high level of maturity cere thanks to the outgoing Prime which was manifested throughout Minister of Saint Lucia Dr. Kenny the process. D. Anthony for his contribution to The OECS Commission looks the work of the organization, and forward to welcoming the newly for the guidance and support ex- elected Government of Saint Lucia tended to the Commission during New York Consulate of Saint Lucia into the OECS family, and assures his tenure as Head of Government. hosted successful Immigration Forum Former UK Conservative Leader Congratulates New Government

he Patron of the British Caribbean Chamber of TCommerce, Lord Howard, former leader of the UK Conser- vative Party and British Home Secretary, today congratulated Saint Lucia’s new Prime Min- ister, The Honourable Allen Chastanet upon being elected to lead the country for the next five years, following Monday’s election. Lord Howard told the Saint Lu- Former leader of the UK cia media that he “congratulates Conservative Party Lord Howard the Island’s Prime Minister upon his election result and on taking “I have already had the op- office on Tuesday. It was a deci- portunity of talking of our com- n Thursday (June 16, 2016), the Consulate General of Saint Lucia in New York hosted a fo- sive result and part of a demo- mon goals with Prime Minister rum on the complex and timely issue of immigration. The discussion was held at Saint Lucia cratic process that all of us in the Chastanet some months ago; as I House, 438 E 49th Street, Brooklyn, New York and was led by Saint Lucian attorney Janice S. free world cherish. The BCCCSL did at that time with the former O Edwards, Esq., who focused on two main topics: “Everything You Need to Know About Obtaining US looks forward to continuing its Prime Minister Dr Anthony. Yes- Permanent Residency (Green Card) Through Marriage,” and “The Legal Implications of Overstaying work in Saint Lucia and to build- terday I sent Dr Anthony a mes- on a Temporary US Visa.” The floor was opened to questions of general interest to attendees as well. ing stronger economic and com- sage expressing my appreciation Earlier, the Consulate General of Saint Lucia in New York had urged all Saint Lucian nationals and mercial ties between our nations, for the work and cooperation interested parties in the tri-state region to avail themselves of that unique opportunity to become throughout the term of this new that he extended to the Chamber more informed on US immigration policy, and how it affects them, their families and their friends. Government. during his term in office.” Page 10 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 New Health Minister to hasten transition to new hospitals

ewly sworn in Minister new portfolio. "Well I am very Hospital is in a deplorable state. person. I am a people person. I for Health and Well- excited about it. I think it's go- I also hope that we can bring St. like the one on one. As I said I Nness Senator Mary Isaac ing to be very challenging and Jude Hospital on board so that already know allot of the staff wasted no time in getting down I love a challenge. I have seen we can move out of the stadium and I hope we can just continue to business as she reported to allot of familiar faces and that and give the stadium back to the the type of relationship that I work on Wednesday June 15th makes me feel right at home." sports people and a few of those already have with them. I don't just hours after being officially She also outlined a few of the things that are already in the really like this stuck up Minis- sworn in. major plans and project she will pipeline that we really need to ter, Minister sought of thing. So The Minister while not yet be- tackle during her stint. conclude." I think as we get more comfort- ing officially introduced to staff "I am hoping we will be able Senator Isaac hopes for a very able with each other then we exchanged pleasantries with a to finalize alot of the projects amicable relationship with staff will decide on the way forward, number of familiar faces having that have already started. We of the Ministry of Health and even how I am called an that Minister for health and herself worked in the public ser- have for instance the new hos- Wellness as they get to know sought of thing." Wellness, Senator Mary Isaac vices for quite some time. pital. I am hoping we will be her, her personality and plans The Minister met with her Senator Isaac spoke about able to move to the new hospital for the ministry. Deputy and Permanent Secre- work currently being undertak- some of her expectations for her because I know that the Victoria "I am a very down to earth tary for a brief overview of the en by the Ministry. Equipment and furniture arrive for new Owen King-EU National Hospital

ctivity has intensified at coming in, we're starting to in- care that minimal damage is the Owen King EU Hos- stall things, and we're starting done. Apital with the arrival to move really fast." "Walls will be scratched as you and installation of state-of-the- Meirovich explained that pre- move with equipment and box- art equipment and furniture. paratory work such as the test- es about the place. So on a daily Up to six containers were re- ing of medical gases and water basis the maintenance team cently unloaded on the grounds lines which are required for monitors the contractors mov- of the hospital, with up to 15 some of the medical equipment ing the equipment and helps more containers from five con- will also be completed in com- to coordinate things to keep tractors scheduled to arrive on ing weeks. many of these issues to a mini- island in the coming weeks. "We have been working on mum. We've been telling them "All the cupboards and every- this for the past five years. It's to protect our floors, protect our thing that has to be hung on been a long time and we had walls, and keep doors opened the walls has arrived. All the several challenges but we can so we won't get pallet jacks and tools for the maintenance team see light at the end of the tun- trolleys jamming into doors," have also arrived, and over the nel already." Bernard said. next few weeks we will also Project Engineer at the hos- The EU hospital is expected receive clinical furniture, surgi- pital, Wendell Bernard said to be opened later this year. As cal tables, delivery beds, hospi- Technical teams have been busy ensuring that equipment is technical teams have been busy Saint Lucia eagerly awaits the tal beds as well as specialized correctly placed within the respective departments. ensuring that the equipment official opening, detailed plan- equipment. We will also re- is correctly placed within the ning, procuring, installing, ceive EMT and ophthalmology dio Meirovich, Technical Assis- "Right now it's a very interest- respective departments in the testing, and training has been equipment next month.," Clau- tance Supervisor, said. ing time because everything is massive facility, while taking ongoing at the facility.

Upgrades continuing at EU hospital World Blood Donor Day observed here

A staff and visitor cafeteria, kitchen, laundry and car park are being built.

onstruction upgrades at four months, and the car park the Owen King EU Hos- to be finished within the next Cpital are underway. two months. But with respect Project Engineer at the hospi- to the kitchen and laundry, tal, Wendel Bernard, said a staff which affects the opening, and visitor cafeteria is being we earmark that it will be Blood Donor Day was established to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products. built, in addition to a kitchen, completed in the next three laundry and car park. months." The upgrades, he said, are not Mr. Bernard added that equip- n observance of World Blood Then we go into the most cru- for blood is year-round. and expected to significantly affect ment and furniture for the hos- Donor Day last week, the cial part - the interview, where we definitely encourage Saint the opening of the hospital. pital have been shipped, and ISaint Lucia Blood Bank has we ask a few questions about Lucians to donate especially "We expect the cafeteria to be will be installed over the next heightened the appeal for dona- your health and lifestyle. during this time. Carnival is completed in the next three to few months. tions to help replenish its con- We need to get an overall pic- coming up and this is our low stantly depleting blood supply. ture of the blood donor. If you're period. So we want persons to Medical Technologist at the accepted then we go into the fun deposit their gift of life before Saint Lucia Blood Bank, Karen part which is when you save a the Carnival festivities. We Louis, explained the procedure life. need to ensure that we have all Free HIV tests for Micoud a donor goes through before You sit in a chair surrounded blood types so that if the situa- blood can be accepted. by professional staff in a clean, tion arises we have an adequate, s part of regional HIV Giving blood is safe, simple, and well-ventilated environment, safe blood supply to provide to testing day activities it saves lives. We've coined the and we withdraw a unit of patients in need." Athe Ministry of will be term '3S'. When you come in, we blood." World Blood Donor Day was conducting free HIV testing on make note of your name, age, and The Blood Bank hopes to mo- established in 2004 and serves Thursday 23rd June, at River date of birth. Then we check to see tivate those who have never do- to raise awareness of the need Bank Bar in Micoud 5pm – 9am. if you have enough blood to give. nated blood. for safe blood and blood prod- Residents are urged to use this We slightly prick your finger, "If someone donates blood ucts, and to thank blood donors opportunity to know your HIV take a drop of blood and drop it from age 17 -70, one would have for their voluntary life saving Status, get educated on the sub- in our solution. If it sinks to the donated 159 times,' louis said. gifts of blood. ject and take control of your life. bottom in 10 seconds or less that "These units of blood separated This year's theme is "Blood Condoms will be available free means you're eligible to become into three components could ac- Connects Us All: Share Life, of charge. a blood donor. tually save 477 lives. The need Give Blood." Saturday June 18, 2016 NationWIDE Page 11 Top Travel Agents and Tourism bodies partner Agencies Honored at to improve yachting sector 2nd Annual Piton Awards

Agencies collaborate with a view to making the sector more competitive within the Caribbean region.

SLHTA President S. Destang handed prizes and plaques to he Ministry of Tourism, ment Association (SMMA) and ticular, product enhancement, winning travel agents. Heritage, and Creative the customs and immigration yachting facilitation, and data Industrie, and the Saint departments to discuss issues op performing booking They were flown to Saint Lucia T collection, the parties agreed to Lucia Tourist Board (SLTB) have specific to yachting facilitation. reactivate the yachting commit- travel agents and agencies from June 9th to 13th to experi- partnered to enhance the is- Many issues facing the yacht- who aced the Preferred ence Saint Lucia’s adventurous tee to serve as the mechanism to T land's yachting sector. ing industry where highlighted pull all related agencies togeth- Agent Saint Lucia Specialist side through a variety of land The two agencies convened a and discussed with a view to [PASS] education and training and sea based excursions. er with the objective of growing meeting on June 1 with officials making the sector more competi- the yachting sector. programme have been present- The agents also receive a real from the Saint Lucia Air and tive within the Caribbean region. ed with their Piton Awards. taste of the island through The first meeting of the yacht- Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), As a first step to address issues ing committee is slated for the The winning agents success- planned culinary activities at the Soufriere Marine Manage- relating to the sector and in par- fully completed a four-step pro- leading island resorts. first week of July. gramme to become part of the The top winners from across Piton Awards programme. Canada and the United States The top sellers were recog- were honored at the second an- nized monthly and at the end nual Piton Award Creole Carni- Saint Lucia targets Martinique this summer of the year the greatest scoring val Gala which took place at on agents and agencies qualified Saturday June 11th at Sandals he Saint Lucia Tour- for the Piton Awards. Halcyon. ist Board (SLTB) has Tlaunched a summer pro- motion in Martinique titled "Va- cances Magiques Saint Lucia." Saint Lucia to defend Saint Lucia records the major- ity of visitors from Martinique and the other Caribbean islands championships in during the summer months; as such, the promotion will high- light the variety of things that culinary competition Saint Lucia has to offer. Research in Martinique sug- gests that beyond the Pitons, the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festi- val, and Gros Islet Friday night, The majority of visitors from Martinique and the Caribbean come the majority of visitors from Mar- to Saint Lucia for summer. tinique are not aware of the vari- ety of hotels, restaurants and ac- cellent pricing and value for mon- to relevant databases in Mar- tivities that can be found in Saint ey packages through partner- tinique, television, radio, print Lucia. As a result, the promotion ships with local tour operators. and cinema advertising. will highlight exciting family, The promotional campaign The launch will be held on group and couples activities. starts June 1, and will include June 3 and 4 at the Galleria Trav- The SLTB will also promote ex- digital advertising, direct mail el Show in Martinique.

Team Saint Lucia readies for Taste of the Caribbean competition in Miami US arrivals climb 15% higher he nine-member Team Saint Corporate Communications Lucia to the Taste of the Ca- Manager Roger Joseph said the n the heels of United Airlines’ December 2015 ribbean culinary competi- competition helps to turn the launch of non-stop ser- tionT is currently in Miami to take spotlight on a unique aspect of O vice from Chicago O'Hare Inter- on more than 10 other countries the island’s tourism product. national Airport (ORD) to Saint in the Caribbean Hotel and Tour- “The global attention that Lucia's Hewanorra International ism Association’s annual compe- Saint Lucia gets from its partici- Airport (UVF), visitor arrivals tition for Caribbean chefs. pation in the competition, espe- from the United States Mid- Saint Lucia’s participation in cially when our team does well, west region have increased by a the regional Taste of the Carib- is phenomenal. record-breaking 15 percent be- bean competition is organized We believe our support con- tween January and April of 2016. by the Saint Lucia Hotel and tributes in a very tangible way Overall travel from the United Tourism Association (SLHTA). to promoting another excellent States experienced a 4.9 percent As part of its preparations, the reason to visit Saint Lucia. increase January through April, Saint Lucia experiences a surge in Midwestern visitors maintaining its position as SLHTA hosted a series of prac- This positive exposure even- resulting from non-stop flight service from Chicago. Saint Lucia's key source market, tice dinners where patrons paid tually converts into tourists with more than 56,000 visitors. Saint Lucian hoteliers have em- cess to a dynamic and respon- to taste the culinary delights coming to Saint Lucia and the The month of April led the barked on a series of development sive site with a map explorer of Team Saint Lucia as part of resultant positive impacts on first four months of the year and renovation projects across component that highlights the training to fine tune their the economy,” he explained. with a nearly nine percent (8.6%) the island including Rex Resorts, hotels, local restaurants, and a respective specialties ahead of Team Saint Lucia is managed by increase in American tourist ar- Royalton Luxury Resorts, and the variety of activities throughout their food battles. Rodroy Thomas and includes the rivals compared to 2015. Harbor Club on the Rodney Bay the island, including special The revenue from the practice Taste of the Caribbean 2015 Junior "It is exciting to see the direct cor- Marina, which will result in the markets such as weddings." dinners together with sponsor- Chef of the Year Edna Butcher, relation between United Airline's addition of more than 700 new Warner-Arnold noted that ship from corporate entities who will defend her title. new service from Chicago and the rooms by the end of 2016. the Tourist Board has devel- helped cover the costs associat- Last year, Team Saint Lucia increase of American visitors from "Together with our hotel partners oped specialized campaigns ed with the team’s participation captured two gold medals and the Midwest region," said Director we strive to provide visitors with designed to grow niche mar- of Tourism Louis Lewis. an unforgettable experience, which kets such as "Saint Lucia Rocks in the competition. five silver medals in addition to "Combined with the ongoing begins before they even step on the This Summer" for families; and Saint Lucia Electricity Services the Overall Cheesecake of the hotel development projects and island," said Tracey Warner-Arnold, Chocolate Heritage Month in Limited (LUCELEC) has consis- Year Award. new direct flights, Saint Lucia Deputy Director of Tourism. August to spotlight the island's tently supported Saint Lucia’s Taste of the Caribbean 2016 is is primed to welcome new and "The recent launch of a new des- cocoa history and culinary participation in the culinary being held under the theme “Is- repeat visitors." tination website gives visitors ac- strengths. competition. land Pride 2016” from June 6 -10. Page 12 NationWIDE Saturday June 18, 2016 Nationwide Sports Jeanelle Scheper places third in Jamaica Sports Academy participated in successful Developmental Swim Meet

n Saturday, June 11th, Rod- While these numbers may not ney Heights Aquatic Cen- be Olympic or International Stan- Otre hosted the 10th Devel- dard, their coach, Tobias Mastro- opmental Swim Meet. cola, always motivates them by This meet, designed specifically saying “It’s the little details that for swimmers who are learning to are vital. Little things make BIG swim and never participating in a things happen.” SLASA sanctioned event, hosted He was overwhelmingly pleased 139 swimmers from the various with not only their results but their swim clubs. disposition at the event. During this event, Sports Academy According to Sue Dyson, Sports – St Lucia entered 9 swimmers con- Academy Trustee – PRO/Market- sisting of 8 males and one female. ing, it would be a sad day if this Chenia Hosam, 12, the only girl program doesn’t continue. who participated for Sports Acade- Unfortunately, with current eco- my, performed well in all 3 events. nomic times, Sports Academy is Showing the courage she entered having difficulty receiving fund- the 25M Breast, 25M Freestyle, and ing and sponsorship for their 25M Backstroke. “Sports for ALL” program which Her mother, Sheri Hosam, stated assists its members from various “This was her first time taking part agencies – Crisis Centre, CARE, in such an event. I knew she would Boys Training Centre, Transit do well because she likes this Home, Upton Girls Garden. sport. Even if she didn’t do well, Without necessary funding, the the experience is great for her.” Academy will have to selectively Janelle Scheper has steadily held her own as one of the two best world-class women high jumpers Regarding the other 8 entrants continue its various programs not in Saint Lucia, usually ranking above the competition in contests in the rest of the Caribbean and by Sports Academy, the majority only in swimming but golf, tennis, Latin America -- and worldwide. come from disadvantaged back- martial arts, and the coming Sum- grounds and is part of The Acad- mer Performance Camp (set to be- sain Bolt was the main at- That number included Jeanelle lina and St Joseph’s Convent al- emy’s “Sports for All” program. gin July 11, 2016). traction at last weekend’s Scheper, turning 22 this year and mumna has been battling an an- Working with groups such as “Our aim is to utilize various inaugural JN Racers Grand already qualified for the Summer kle injury for some time now, so C.A.R.E., Crisis Centre, BTC and sporting disciplines to teach life U individual families, Sports Acad- skills to youth around the entire Prix in Kingston, Jamaica. The mul- Olympics in women’s High Jump. she was reasonably satisfied with tiple World and Olympic champion Scheper went up against a her third-place finish in Jamaica, emy teaches life skills through island of St Lucia. won the men’s 100m in 9.88 sec- small but strong field in Jamai- clearing 1.84m to 1.87 for Patter- sporting disciplines. Providing these disciplines at onds, despite running a very poor ca, including the second-best son, and 1.93 for Lowe. The group of 8 boys -- from age nominal fees, encourages and al- race, from a technical standpoint. jumper for the year, Chaunté Scheper is presently ranked groups 11-12, 13-14, and 15 and over lows participants to grow into ben- More than 100 of the world’s top Lowe of the United States of 33rd in the world, with a best -- demonstrated great discipline. eficial members of society. athletes, representing 10 nations, America, and Elizabeth Pat- clearance of just 1.89m for the The development of all of them, Our country needs opportunities were in attendance at Jamaica’s terson, also of the USA. season, well short of her 1.96m especially Vernon King and Stefan like this to continue so we can see National Stadium. The University of South Caro- career-best clearance. Theodore who have been part of growth as a country,” stated Dyson. the program since 2015 was phe- If you would like to volunteer in nomenal. the various activities, sporting dis- Vernon finished the 25 M Free- ciplines or provide financial assis- style and 25 M Breast stroke at the tance/donation to Sports Academy Saint Lucian athletes attending top of his age group with 18.78s and please call 285-8894 or 460-8894. 24.19s respectively. Stefan finished You can also email sportsacad- Caribbean Hoops Exposure Camp the 25M Freestyle with 17.57s. [email protected]. wo Saint Lucians are in Saint Lucia beat Turks and Caicos Trinidad and Tobago for Tthe Caribbean Hoops Ex- to open CFU Under-20 with smiles! posure Camp. The 25/8 camp (one extra hour, one extra day) aint Lucia beat Turks and is an annual event hosted by the Caicos Islands 2-0 on Caribbean Hoops organization, SWednesday evening to where athletes from the Carib- start their Caribbean Football bean have the opportunity to Union Under-20 campaign on showcase their talent to earn a good footing. The game was college and university scholar- played at the Ato Boldon Sta- ships to the United States and dium in Trinidad and Tobago. North America. TCI did much better than the The 2015 edition was a suc- last time they met Saint Lucia cess with several athletes receiv- at this level. In 2014, Saint Lucia ing offers to attend school in the thrashed TCI 17-0, leading 11-0 United States on basketball schol- The camp connects athletes from Caribbean territories to coaches at halftime. This time it was arships. The third edition of 25/8 and scouts from schools in North America. 0-0 at the interval, until Canar- brings together athletes from six ies midfielder Antoine Wilfred Caribbean territories, along with the Most Valuable Player for Saint Prior to their departure, Gumbs scored a header to give Saint coaches and scouts from schools Lucia in the Windward Islands and Polius met with acting Per- Lucia the lead in the 57th min- in North America. School Games in 2015. manent Secretary in the Minis- ute. 18-year-old Micoud goal- In attendance, with support Joel, an employee at Le Sport, try of Youth Development and keeper Noah Didier says: “I feel I have been working on my agil- from the Saint Lucia Basketball was one of the outstanding play- Sports, Dr. Anthony George. with the ability of our team we ity between the sticks in goal Federation (SLBF) and the Min- ers in the KFC Commercial Caribbean Hoops is a non-profit have what it takes to advance to too so I am looking forward to istry of Youth Development and League last year. A member of organisation based in Trinidad Round 2 of the Qualifiers in Oc- it.” Yesterday’s fixture against Sports, are Pakel Gumbs and Joel five-time defending champions and Tobago, working to aid in the tober. We worked on finishing Guadeloupe promised to be a Polius. Courts Jets, he is also the defend- growth and development of ath- and possession in training and tough one. Both young forwards, Pakel was ing SLBF Slam Dunk champion. letes throughout the region.