Saint Lucia No. 136. Saturday, May 6, 2006

A publication of the Department of Information Services

RENOVATED VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE, BRAZIL ST., CASTRIES

A section of the Soufriere-Vieux Fort Road

“Take 2 ” - A fi fteen minute news review of the week. Government Notebook A fresh news package daily Every Friday at 6.15 p.m. on NTN, Cablevision Channel 2. on all local radio stations 2 Saint Lucia Saturday, May 6, 2006

THIS EDITION OF NATIONWIDE CONTINUES OUR SPECIAL COVERAGE OF THE 2006 – 2007 BUDGET PRESENTATION BY PRIME MINISTER AND MINISTER OF FINANCE DR. KENNY ANTHONY. THE FOLLOWING IS THE SECTION OF THE PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH WHICH ADDRESSES THE QUESTION OF HOW GOVERNMENT WILL FINANCE THE COUNTRY’S FIRST BILLION DOLLAR BUDGET Now that the principal budgetary poli- This Government, Mr. Speaker, has al- which have been circulated to Honourable Honourable Members would also note cies have been outlined, I will proceed to ways erred on the side of caution in mak- Members. that work has commenced on Phase 1 of explain how the budget will be financed. ing projections of revenue and expendi- the Castries to Gros Islet Highway. This In formulating a budget, Mr Speaker, ture. We tend to be highly conservative Economic Service project, which covers the section of the we have the difficult task of striking the in our revenue estimates and as a result highway between Castries and Choc, will correct balance between taxes, expendi- tend to under-estimate. Conversely, our Agencies cause some discomfort to motorists. Once tures and debt. Our task is to ensure that precautionary approach leads us to over- The proposed allocation to the Eco- again, I plead for your patience and under- current and future generations are treated estimate recurrent expenditures. In many nomic Service Agencies is $682.1 million; standing as we seek to improve and widen fairly. At a minimum, current generations other countries the practice is the reverse 24.7 percent higher than the amount allo- this road network. On completion, traffic should be required to pay, via taxes, for and as a result those countries experience cated last year and 60.8 percent of the total congestion is expected to be relieved sig- the goods and services that they consume. fiscal problems. Given that Saint Lucia is budget. The amount allocated to recurrent nificantly. An allocation of $28.1 million We also believe that the current generation a highly vulnerable economy susceptible expenditure is $387.7 million, of which has been earmarked for this project. should contribute to investment as they are to shocks, our approach to forecasting is $180.5 million is for debt servicing and The Urban Renewal Programme, which also beneficiaries of the future growth that conservative and judicious. In order to see $40.9 million is for the payment of pen- was explained earlier in my presentation, is generated by that investment. We must the benefits of that practice, I shall review sions to retired public servants. will receive an allocation of $9.6 million. also ensure that we do not unduly burden last year’s fiscal performance against the I have also increased the capital allo- It is expected that the Tertiary Roads the future generation by increasing debt to planned budget. Programme, which entailed the rehabili- unsustainable levels. Mr. Speaker, last year I projected recur- cation to these agencies significantly by 36.2% to $294.4 million. This increase tation of 108 kilometres of road, will be We have, Mr. Speaker, carefully evaluat- rent revenue at $546.2 million. I indicated completed this year and a provision of that we had to be cautious because of the reflects, largely, the amounts required to ed the policy options and the policy trade- complete ongoing projects. just under $23.0 million is made for this offs and believe that we have come up with worrying trend of increasing oil prices. project. the optimal balance between policies that While oil prices did increase, Mr. Speaker, Additionally, Mr. Speaker, I have al- will contribute to sustaining growth while and we had to make some adjustments, I Cricket World Cup located $5.3 million towards community am now pleased to report that revenue in- at the same time ensuring that our debt re- Mr. Speaker, you would recall that it was infrastructure. take was $73 million or 13.4 percent higher mains sustainable. our intention to raise all the funds for the After spending significant sums of money than the actual forecast. This additional I shall now present the Budget Estimates Cricket World Cup Project in the last fis- to rehabilitate our roads, it is absolutely revenue has enabled us to meet our com- for the 2006-2007 fiscal year. cal year, given that I predicted that interest important that we develop a maintenance mitments to public servants in respect of rates were likely to increase. I am pleased plan to prevent a recurrence of this situ- The total planned level of expenditure new salaries and back-pay. More crucially, to say that this was the right decision as in- ation in the near future. In addition, Mr amounts to $1,121.5 million, represent- we have been able to reduce our borrowing terest rates have increased and are expect- Speaker, it is important that we reduce the ing an increase of 17.3 percent over the requirements. planned budgetary outlay in the 2005-2006 ed to continue to increase. The funding for damage caused by heavy goods vehicles. fiscal year. In effect, this is a 1.1 billion Mr. Speaker, I wish to emphasize that this project has been raised and we are in As a result, we have agreed to implement dollar budget. our sound fiscal management enabled us to effect re-budgeting the balance of the loan a motor vehicle weight control system. An pay the back-pay to public servants with- The details are as follows: (1) The funds, which amount to $42.8 million, to allocation of $1.5 million is earmarked for out having to resort to borrowing from the complete the upgrading of the Beausejour this initiative. planned level of recurrent expenditure, ex- banks or for that matter the Central Bank. clusive of amortisation, is $611.6 million, Cricket Ground and provide for the oper- Increased Allocation representing 54.5 percent of total planned In addition, Mr. Speaker, we had planned ating expenditures for the hosting of the expenditure, and is 2.9.8 percent higher to raise bonds of $189.6 million to finance matches. to the Tourism Sector than the previous year; (2) Debt amorti- the capital programme last year, of which The expansion of the Saint Lucia econ- sation is forecast at $88.5 million and ac- $56 million was earmarked for the Cricket Water Supply Infra- omy has been driven, in large part, by the counts for 7.9 percent of total planned ex- World Cup project. Given that we received tourism sector. This sector is now the en- penditure; (3) The planned level of capital more favourable rates from a bank than structure gine of growth of the economy and it is cru- expenditure is forecast to increase by 25.5 what we would have obtained from the cial that Government provides the requisite Regional Government Securities Market As indicated in my last budget presen- percent to $421.4 million and accounts for tation, Government has launched a major support. I propose therefore to increase the 37.6 percent of the total budget. This in- (RGSM), we decided to take a loan for overall allocation to this sector to $29.6 Cricket World Cup. This reduced our bond Water Infrastructure Improvement Pro- crease largely reflects the continuation of gramme, which is aimed at alleviating million. Of this amount, $25.8 million will ongoing capital projects and the re-budget- requirement to $133.6 million. However, be allocated to tourism marketing. given our excellent revenue performance the water shortage problem in the north ing of EU-grant financed projects, as fund- of the island. Honourable Members, I am ing was not received in the last fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, we only had to raise bonds of $100 million. Mr. Speaker, this is proof sure, would agree that this improvement Agriculture Diversifi- The sources of financing for the 2006- programme is critically needed as the de- that the financial stewardship of this coun- cation Programme 2007 Budget are as follows: (1) Recurrent try is in safe hands. velopment in the north continues apace. I Revenue of $621.6 million; (2) Capital would like, for the benefit of Honourable Revenue of $9.2 million; (3) Excess Rev- This year, Mr. Speaker, while we are Members, to restate the components of Sadly, Mr. Speaker, last year we could enue and the re-budgeting of bonds from projecting real GDP growth of 6.6 percent, this programme: (1) Upgrading the Roseau not implement the agriculture diversifica- fiscal year 2005-2006 of $16.0 million; (4) we are again going to err on the side of Dam Pumping Station; (2) Improving the tion programme because the anticipated re- Grant Funding of $76.5 million, of which caution and project revenue collections at raw water transmission between Vanard ceipt of Special Framework of Assistance $61.4 million is from the European Union; only $621.6 million, a mere $2.4 million and Sarot; (3) Upgrading the Theobalds (SFA) funds from the EU did not materi- (5) Previously approved Loan Funding of above last year’s actual collections. If our Water Treatment Plant; and (4) Upgrading alise. We are assured that most of the bu- $153.8 Million; (6) Previously approved real GDP growth materialises, as we have the Morne-Bocage Distribution Pipeline. reaucratic hurdles have been resolved and every reason to believe it will, revenue col- are hopeful that funding will become avail- bond funding of $88.4 million. Members The contractor for the project is in the are asked to note that Parliament approved lections may well climb to $680 million. able early in the fiscal year. But, Mr. Speaker, we are cautious. We are process of mobilising for commencement. Reflecting the importance that our Gov- by Resolution dated 12th September, 2005, This project, which is financed by the an amount of $188.4 million, to be raised again haunted by the spectre of rising oil ernment has attached to agricultural diver- prices, which hit a peak of US $75 per bar- World Bank, is expected to be completed sification, we have programmed $9.2 mil- by the issue of Savings Bonds to assist in in one year and will bring great relief to the financing of capital and other expen- rel only last week. We have also been told lion for this programme. to expect another active hurricane season. residents living in the north of the Island. Last year, I announced a comprehensive diture and debt refinancing. However, we An allocation of $26.4 million has been decided to raise only $100 million. The package of incentives for the agriculture made for this project. unutilised approved bond funding of $88.4 Allocation of Expenditure sector. I wish to complement our incen- million is to be applied to refinance exist- This budget is framed to enhance our tives programme with a capacity building ing debt and therefore will not add to our social infrastructure, and to strengthen Road Infrastructure programme, for which a sum of $2 million debt stock; (7) New loan funding of $32.4 programmes in health, education, social Mr. Speaker, this Government has made is allocated. million in substitution for previous bond protection, security and justice. These are record levels of investment in road infra- financing, for which I shall seek the ap- programmes that are ultimately important structure over the past five years. This has Support to Restruc- proval of this Honourable House later; (8) for improving the welfare of our society been necessary because of the aging road New bond funding of $123.6 million. and particularly, of the more vulnerable infrastructure and the rapid deterioration ture Banana Industry groups. in the road network. This year we will In effect, Mr Speaker, I shall be seek- Notwithstanding the low level of pro- continue with our investment programme. ing the approval of this Honourable House This budget is, therefore, a budget with duction, for reasons outlined earlier Gov- The Ministry of Communications, Works, for $156.0 million for new funding. This the future in mind. It provides for the future ernment remains committed to supporting Transport and Public Utilities is the recipi- amount, Honourable Members will be opportunities of the youth, the future care the restructuring of the banana industry to ent of $106.9 million; $46.1 million or 75.8 pleased to know, is $32.4 million lower of the elderly, the provision of health ser- enhance productivity and thereby enable it percent higher than the allocation received than the amount that I sought approval for vices that our citizens will require for the to survive post-2006 and in a tariff-only re- last year. last year, which was $188.4 million. This foreseeable future, and for the long term gime. This year, I have allocated $4.7 mil- confirms the downward trend of borrow- growth and development of Saint Lucia’s An allocation of $28 million is made to lion to this sector, of which $1.4 million ing. economy. the East Coast Road Project. It is expected is to continue the ongoing irrigation and I now turn to the distribution of the that Phase 2 of the project, which covers drainage projects implemented by the BIT Approach to Forecasting budget among agencies. Comprehensive Castries to Praslin, will be completed. Re- and $3.3 million is for the Banana Emer- Allow me, Mr. Speaker, to comment details of expenditure by agencies, pro- habilitation will also commence on some gency Recovery Unit (BERU). on our forecasts for the 2006-2007 fiscal grammes and activities are contained in of the critical sections of the road between year. the draft 2006-2007 Estimates, copies of Praslin and Vieux Fort. Continued on page 7 Saturday, May 6, 2006 Saint Lucia 3

advised CDB to select another Consulting corresponding re-tender the tenderers Firm to assess the bids. A Canadian firm attempted to under bid each other with the was selected and recommended that the result being a contract price substantially the sins of the U.W.P. administration are contract be awarded to Lagan Holdings, less than the consultant’s original estimate. plenty. Here is a list of Projects which an Irish Company which had submitted the This has resulted in a contractor, that is incurred cost overruns during their tenure lowest bid. The Caribbean Development Lagan, that is highly claims-conscious without explanation. Bank issued its “no objections” to the attempting to compensate for a low bid.” (1) Castries Harbour Redevelopment recommendation and the Tenders Board These factors led to substantial delays. A by Concreto (Venezuelan Firm); (2) East duly approved the recommendation. So, contract whose performance was originally Coast Road Improvement and Alignments the machinations worked in favour of twelve months extended to twenty four (1972 – 1979); (3) Hewannora Airport Lagan Holdings, the same company that months. Inevitably, this also added to the Renovation and Expansion; (4) Vigie is now attacked by those who initially original cost. campaigned in their favour. That is life! airport Extension (storm damage during An Earlier Indication period of construction); (5) Castries/Gros The Role of Caribbean Development Islet Highway Project; (6) Pigeon Island Some have asked, why is it that this Bank (CDB) Government did not indicate earlier, the Causeway Development (Expensive sea The real question that must be answered coral back fill material utilised); (7) Castries total cost of the project? is this: Are the cost overruns on the As I explained on Mr. Poleon’s Waterfront Office Building Development; Soufriére to Vieux Fort highway justified? (8) West Coast Road Development (Phase I, Newsmaker Live Programme, the II, III – 1983-1990); (9) RIM Road Projects Before I answer this question, I must Government could not advance a final – (1990 – 1995); (10) Cul De Sac Flood remind each and everyone of you that it is amount for the cost overrun, when it was Protection Works; and (11) Cul De Sac the Caribbean Development Bank which engaged in negotiations to finalise the full Industrial and Commercial Development. provided the loan for the construction amount. Of what use is it to announce of the highway. Consequently, the CDB a figure, which is, at best, a preliminary Why The Fuss? had an interest in the project, and its figure. Then, too, the final cost constitutes Why then all, all the insinuations? Every implementation. a variation which must be approved by Saint Lucian has a right to be concerned Why Cost Overruns? the Central Tenders Board. All of these Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony about how public money is spent. Indeed, On two occasions, I requested the procedures had to be resolved. this is a good thing. Citizens need to be Caribbean Development Bank to evaluate Can Government Hide? he House of Assembly has satisfied that if additional expenditure is the progress of the project. On the second Some, in their mission to sow distrust concluded its debate on the incurred, that such expenditure is fully occasion, the Caribbean Development Bank and suspicion, accuse the Government 2006/07 Budget Estimates. Most justified. And, a Government has an confirmed that there would be substantial of hiding the figures. The fact is, no T obligation to explain once all the facts cost overruns. The Bank advised that the of you were asleep by the time the Government can hide public expenditure debate concluded at about 12:15 a.m are available. When all the facts are not cost overruns were due, primarily, to the of the scale incurred in the construction on Saturday. Inevitably, one of the disclosed, it becomes easier for mischief following reasons: of the Vieux Fort to Soufriére highway. subjects which came up for discussion makers to sow seeds of doubt, suspicion (1) Drawings of the location of Cable Such expenditure must emerge because the was the cost-overrun incurred in respect and distrust. & Wireless cables were not available. Director of Audit will, eventually see to of the Soufriére to Vieux Fort Highway. And the Opposition has successfully done According to the CDB Report “The overall it. So too will public officers who mange This was anticipated. After all, it is a this. They have led many to believe, that scope of the telecommunications works Government funds. Moreover, the loan was favourite subject of the Opposition, for reasons which I shall reflect on later. I had promised that the final cost of the highway would have been disclosed during the Budget Debate and this was done by Hon. Felix Finisterre, Minister for Communications, Works, Transport and Public Utilities. Inventing Cost Overruns One would think that the Saint Lucia Labour Party invented “cost overruns”. Of course, the term, “cost overrun” now occupy prominence in our political vocabulary because of the Rochamel Development. Let’s clarify the term. “Cost Overrun” simply means the amount by which the actual cost of a project or activity exceeds the budgeted, estimated, original or targeted cost. So, if you plan to build a house for $100,000.00 and you actually spend $120,000.00, then there is a cost overrun of $20,000.00. Amazingly, the Opposition behaves as if it is without sin, that no cost overruns ever occurred during its tenure. The fact is, cost overruns were rife during the UWP administration, particularly when Sir John Compton was Prime Minister. Here are two recent examples: (1) In his 1995 Budget Address, Sir John A section of the new Soufriere to Vieux Fort Highway announced the construction of the Tunnel Road at a cost of $53 million dollars. This because the cost overrun, for the Soufriére also vastly increased, from 8,000 meters of secured from the Caribbean Development Government completed this project after to Vieux Fort was substantial, that someone ducting to 22,000 meters.” it assumed office in 1997. The total bill Bank, so inevitably, they will, as they have must have been corrupt. And, since they was over $80 million. This Government (2) Likewise, during the design stage done, publish the total loan advance to the are unable to prove corruption, they have paid it. It did not squirm. It did not accuse little was known about the location and Government of Saint Lucia. shifted to describing it as “wastage”. state of WASCO’s pipes. There was Sir John of corruption. I well remember Conclusion the then Minister of Communications, How was the Contract Awarded? “considerable scope changes after tendering Like all Saint Lucians, I would prefer Works, Transport and Public Utilities, It is interesting to reflect on how was concluded.” A substantial amount of Hon. Senator Calixte George, commenting the contract for the construction of the the older pipelines had to be removed and to have all projects completed on time and that the cost of the Tunnel Road per mile Soufriere to Vieux Fort highway was replaced. within budget, with the highest quality of was the highest ever in Saint Lucia. It is awarded. (3) There was inadequate identification finish. However, this is not always possible still the case!. When the project was first advertised and of periodic soft spots within the road in the real world. (2) Then there was the infamous Darling the bids opened, B & D, a local company, sub-grade. There was an overall lack of I hope my explanations have helped you Road Housing Project. Sir John’s U.W.P. took the Government to court and claimed adequate fill material.” The contractor to better understand an issue tainted with administration borrowed a total of $32.7 that the process was unfair. It was alleged experienced difficulty in identifying and slander and misinformation. But, that’s sourcing material. In some instances, the million from the N.I.C. in two tranches. too that the consulting firm, DIWI, enough! favoured CCI over other firms, including source material was a considerable distance Interestingly, it was this Government, Today is “May Day”, so I salute the in order to protect the NIC, which went Lagan Holdings and C.O. Williams and from where the material was required.” to Parliament on November 22 1997 Company, a Barbadian firm resident in This added to the cost. workers of Saint Lucia I wish to assure to guarantee this loan, so adding to the Saint Lucia. Crucially, CDB also identified a major every worker that this Government, no island’s Public Debt. Sir John Compton waded in. He wrote weakness in the bid process as a direct matter what, will continue to advance the One who criticises must never ignore his to CDB and suggested that the process was result of the earlier court action. According cause of workers of Saint Lucia on every own sins. To this day, one cannot reconcile tainted. to the CDB evaluation, front. the total cost of the Darling Road Housing In order to avoid court proceedings the “The first tender exposed the intended So happy May Day, be of good cheer, Project and the value of the buildings. And project was re-advertised. Government bid price of all tenderers. During the and God Bless, until next week. 4 Saint Lucia Saturday, May 6, 2006 Saturday, May 6, 2006 Saint Lucia 5

The proposed development will be alike. The promenade should provide TODAY’S COVER STORY, “ THE RENEWAL OF CENTRAL CASTRIES”, IS PART OF THIS PUBLICATION’S modular in nature and it is proposed an arena-like experience to users with that the following modules will be ample vistas of the harbour and special CONTINUING SPECIAL COVERAGE OF THE 2006 – 2007 BUDGET ADDRESS BY DR. KENNY ANTHONY, pursued: (1) Castries Yacht Centre, pavilions along its way to enhance the RIME INISTER AND INISTER OF INANCE MONG THE SEVERAL BUDGETARY PROPOSALS WERE Ganter’s Bay up to the tenders jetty experience”. P M M F . A adjacent to the restaurant “Froggy In the view of the consultants, “the PLANS FOR URBAN RENEWAL IN CASTRIES, THE COUNTRY’S CAPITAL. THE FOLLOWING IS THE PART OF Jacks”: most of the land in that area promenade can and should be the is owned by SLASPA and the Crown signature structure of the downtown THE ADDRESS WHICH OUTLINED THE DETAILS OF THOSE PLANS and it is proposed that the area be de- waterfront and part of an attractive, veloped into an up-scale condominium welcoming “approach” to the city of Urban Renewal In ised construction, poor drainage, land existing families on terms and condi- Castries Waterfront complex, and a yacht facility with Castries. The Promenade would ex- Castries slippage and worse. tions to be offered by the Government, Development restaurants. (2) Pointe Seraphine, the press the unique character and beauty It is now vital that there be a system- and the relocation of some residents to reef and the access road to the Pointe of Port Castries.” Mr. Speaker, for many of our citi- atic rationalisation of such settlements approved areas. Mr. Speaker, we recognize that the Seraphine Shopping Complex: some Construction of a promenade along zens, certain parts of the city of Cas- to bring relief to residents and improve Given the sheer scale and cost of this fi rst image that our visitors get when portions of the land in this area are the Castries waterfront can give citi- tries have become unattractive, un- prospects for poverty reduction and initiative, implementation will take approaching our City whether by boat, also owned by the Crown and NDC. It zens the opportunity to realize both old appealing and unsafe. The areas to wealth creation through the acquisition time, and necessarily, must be phased. plane or car is the Waterfront. The is proposed that this area is to be de- and new dreams for the water sporting the east of Peynier Street and to the of land ownership and title. The Government will approach this Castries Waterfront has a long history veloped to cater to a mix of tourism, events, which took place in the harbour south of Brazil Street spring to mind, Accordingly, my Government will, challenge as follows: (1) First, the of welcoming visitors and in times past commercial and entertainment related long ago. because the signs of decay are very during this year, commence a resettle- lands to be acquired will be identifi ed was admired as one of the most beau- activities. (3) The fi nal module would Government has accepted this rec- visible. This is refl ected in an increase ment program in Conway. Thereafter, and acquired in phases, commencing tiful ports in the Region. But alas, we involve the stretch of property along ommendation and decided to construct in dilapidated buildings, crumbling can no longer boast that the Waterfront Jeremie Street, including the Vendors a tree-lined, shaded promenade/board- similar processes will be undertaken in this fi nancial year; (2) Prior to acquisi- The Castries Market, one of the oldest landmarks in Castries street infrastructure, especially side- other communities based on economic tion, the Government will hold discus- is as welcoming to the eyes as before. Arcade, the Port Police and Fire Sta- walk extending northward from within walks and drains, and unplanned and and social analysis of existing condi- sion with the owners or the representa- unsightly developments. tions and determination of resident tives of the owners; (3) This initiative derly manner. Consequently, this year, the Castries City Council, this facility The city too is becoming dysfunc- profi les. These tasks will be under- will be managed by the Programme for I have instructed the National Devel- has deteriorated to the point where it tional. The fl ow of pedestrian and ve- taken by the Ministry of Physical De- the Regularization of Unplanned De- opment Corporation to work with the now adversely affects the integrity of hicular traffi c is stymied by sidewalk velopment, Environment and Housing. velopments (PROUD), a unit already Castries City Council to conduct an the products offered by the vendors, vendors on the one hand and haphazard Given the extent of the problems to be established in the Ministry of Physi- assessment of the vendor situation in thereby compromising their overall street parking on the other. tackled, these processes are likely to be cal Development Environment and Castries. Upon completion, the Na- ability to sustain their economic activ- Urgent and concerted action is re- complex and lengthy and will require Housing. PROUD will be expanded tional Development Corporation will ity. The intrusion of the elements (both quired to present a more appealing and patience on all sides.” and strengthened to cope with this new make available a sum of EC$300,000 sun and rain) has exposed the fragility to construct quality vending carts or of the current drainage and roofi ng sys- functional city to the thousands of resi- Plans are well underway to com- responsibility. Initially, PROUD will stalls that can maintain the aesthetic tems in particular. Moreover, the pre- dents who use it on a daily basis and mence the resettlement of Conway have to capture information and data beauty of the City. vailing on-site conditions are signifi - the tens of thousand of visitors who residents and this fi nancial year should about the residents. PROUD will be cantly diminishing the historical and grace our shores every year. see the commencement of construction multidisciplinary in composition, out- aesthetic value of the Market Complex, The challenge is both short term and of infrastructure on the selected site of look, and skills; (4) Where relocation Repairs To Central as they act as deterrents to those seek- long term. One of the long term solu- relocation. is necessary to facilitate the construc- Market And Arcade tion of infrastructure, Government will ing to patronize the facility. tions has to do with the rejuvenation The problems in the wider Castries The Castries Market, Mr. Speaker, identify sites for relocation of the per- Our city, with all its architecture, of certain communities within the Cas- Basin are, however, more complex. is unquestionably one of the oldest and sons likely to be affected. must exude confi dence, vibrancy, tries Basin. Let us start with this. Many of the residents live on proper- most noticeable features of the land- freshness and aesthetic appeal and the ties rented from landlords, spanning in Mr. Speaker, the Government has scape of the City of Castries. For de- Market Complex can play a lead role in Acquisition of Lands many cases, several generations. Citi- already identifi ed the following com- cades it has assumed prominence, not catalyzing this transformation. For Urban Renewal zens turn to Central Government for munities for attention: Faux a Chaux, only as an environment that facilitated income generating opportunities for An allocation of $300,000 has there- Mr. Speaker, in the 2005 Throne help but sometimes the Government is Bananes, Bagatelle, Cedars, Morne Du vendors and the farming community fore been made available to enable the Speech, Her Excellency Dame Pear- unable to respond because the land is in Don, Marchand George Ville. lette Louisy, our Governor General, private ownership. In some areas, it is Other communities will be added addressed the overcrowding and indis- impossible to improve access because once the preliminary studies are com- criminate squatting in the Castries Basin of the location of homes. Overcrowd- pleted. Acquisition of the areas in and its satellite communities. Her Ex- ing has led to unacceptable and intoler- question will be phased over a cycle of cellency addressed the issue this way: able social conditions. three years. The Castries Harbour and Waterfront which is to be redeveloped “Mr. President, Mr. Speaker it is The fi rst step in tackling these is- Mr. Speaker, I wish to make it abun- dantly clear that until such time that the Government acquires these properties, The only recent development to the tions, La Place Carenage, the Customs the existing craft market along the wa- the owners are entitled to rental pay- Waterfront has been the construction of and Excise building and Sheds Four terfront to the small vehicular bridge ment from the persons to whom they the two phases of La Place Carenage and Five. It is proposed that this area adjacent to the St. Lucia Electricity are leasing. by SLASPA. This Duty Free Shopping be developed to enhance the shopping Services building at Sans Souci. Repair and Rehabilita- Mall, along with the recently complet- experience for citizens and visitors. This proposal will be the fi rst step in tion of Castries ed Desmond Skeete Animation Centre, Already, a committee, comprising a dramatic waterfront improvement. It Sidewalks represent only the beginning of the board and council members of the NIC will stand as a symbol of revitalization realization of the potential for the de- and SLASPA and other interests, has and triumph for an entire section of the Over the years, Mr Speaker, there velopment of the entire Waterfront. So, been established to pursue the most city. I expect this will be done in time has been a noticeable and steady dete- in order to continue this Development, appropriate corporate development for Cricket World Cup in 2007. rioration of the sidewalks in Castries, SLASPA, along with its subsidiary model. Honourable Members may wish to much to the distress of citizens. Some Anchorage Investments Limited, the Mr. Speaker, given the excitement note that a sum of $6.25 million has effort has been made to effect repairs National Insurance Corporation and its that has been generated by the relevant been allocated in the Estimates to fi - to sections of the City, but at best, subsidiary National Insurance Property nance the construction of the prom- parties, I am of the fi rm view that this The Vendors Arcade these efforts have been sporadic and Development and Management Com- venture merits the support of the Gov- enade. piecemeal. pany, and the Bank of Saint Lucia have ernment of Saint Lucia and we will Our Government now proposes come together to formulate a strategy certainly want to offer any assistance Support To Vendors alike, but just as critically, as a major Castries City Council to undertake ur- to undertake a comprehensive pro- for the redevelopment of the Castries to bring this idea to fruition. tourism asset. It is also a political as- gent upgrading works to the Complex. gramme of reconstruction and rehabili- Waterfront. Interestingly Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, it is vital that Castries set, for it is the undisputed home of the The major works to be implemented tation of the City’s sidewalks during two non-national entities have also ex- refl ects the image of a rapidly devel- Saint Lucia Labour Party – Saint Lu- will include: (1) The installation of ex- A part of the Conway, whose residents are to be resettled under the Urban Waterfront this fi nancial year. I propose to allocate pressed an interest in participating in Promenade oping city. While we witness the re- cia’s fi rst university so to speak. tractor fans and drainage works in the Renewal Programme the redevelopment of the Castries Wa- furbishment of buildings within the $2.3 million to this programme. I have The Market Complex, which com- Arts and Craft Market; (2) The upgrad- terfront. One of these entities is in the Meanwhile, Mr. Speaker, Govern- commercial section, we also observe a no doubt that this programme will en- prises the Vendors Arcade, the Provi- ing of the guttering system in the Pro- well known that there is tremendous sues is for the Government to gain un- hance the general appearance of the Cruise Industry. ment will proceed with one aspect of proliferation of tray-vending along our visions Market; and (3) The installation sions Market and the Arts and Craft overcrowding in the Castries basin impeded access and ownership of the city and restore some of its legendary The prospects for this Development upgrading the waterfront. sidewalks that stands in stark contrast of down pipes, as well as drainage and (Old) Market, accommodates 388 ven- and surrounding urban areas. This is properties in question. Government, charm and appearance, particularly in are interesting and exciting. Permit me Our Government recently commis- to the profi le that needs to be created roofi ng works in the Vendors Arcade. dors in total. Over the years, it has been the unfortunate result of years of spon- therefore, proposes to acquire these those areas where no rehabilitation has to share with this Honourable House sioned a Castries Urban Transportation of the City. This is aesthetically in- I am particularly pleased for those taneous and unplanned expansion of properties from their owners. Once taken place. some of the ideas that have been dis- Study, and the consultants who pre- compatible. But our vendors must be patronized by hundreds of thousands vendors who occupy the Arcade be- residential communities. It is also the this is done, the process of rationali- The implementation of this pro- cussed so far. The area under consid- pared the report have suggested that, provided an opportunity to earn a liv- of tourists and locals. Its value to our cause they have had to endure from result of urban drift and indiscriminate sation can commence. This will entail gramme will be the shared responsibil- eration encompasses the entire Water- “A waterfront promenade can provide ing; they must feed and educate their people, and our economy, indeed, its the inception, a facility with inherent squatting. In many cases, this has led to the improvement and extension of ex- ity of the Ministry of Communications, front area, from the former Castries an opportunity to link Pointe Seraphine children. So Mr. Speaker, Government overall intrinsic value, cannot be un- design defi ciencies. They have, in the intolerable social conditions and dan- isting infrastructure, the grant of title Works, Transport and Public Utilities Yacht Centre to Sheds 4 and 5 along with the City centre, making it an inte- must intervene and assist them in ply- derestimated. past, complained loudly and deserve gerous physical conditions: unauthor- and ownership of the land occupied by and the Castries City Council. lower Jeremie Street. gral experience for locals and visitors ing their trade in an organised and or- Despite on-going maintenance by some relief. 6 Saint Lucia Saturday, May 6, 2006

he Caribbean Community and the the controversy under the aegis of the UN United Kingdom have reaffirmed Good Offices Process, and to enhancing Ttheir support for a Caricom - UK cooperation at the bilateral, regional and Regional Security Cooperation Plan. The multilateral levels. two sides renewed their committment The Ministers noted a report from Belize to a joint approach to regional security in relation to the ongoing process to reach at the Fifth U. K - Caribbean Forum a just, equitable and permanent solution hosted by the Government of Barbados, to Guatemala’s territorial claim to Belize which took place in Bridgetown on 26-28 within the framework of the Organisation of April 2006. The Forum was co-chaired American States (OAS). They emphasized on the Caribbean side by the Hon. Elvin that the international community remained Nimrod, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Grenada and fully supportive of the OAS process between current Chair of the CARICOM Council Belize and Guatemala in accordance for Foreign and Community Relations, with the Framework for Negotiations and on the UK side by the Rt. Hon. Jack and Confidence Building Measures of 7 Straw, MP, Secretary of State, Foreign September 2005, under which they will and Commonwealth Office. attempt in good faith to resolve the dispute On the subject of security, the by negotiations, and should this not be Communique issued at the conclusion of possible provided a mechanism to allow the meeting, states:- At the last Forum recourse to an international judicial body in May 2004, Ministers underlined the for final resolution. Ministers expressed significance of effective cooperation the hope that this mechanism will ensure between the Governments of the United that the dispute is finally settled within Kingdom and the Caribbean on law and a reasonable time. They recalled and enforcement, and reform of the security reaffirmed the strong support of the sector, and decided to draw up a Framework Commonwealth Heads of Government for Security Cooperation. This resulted (Malta 2005) and CARICOM Heads of in the adoption, in October 2004, of the Government (Saint Lucia, July 2005) for CARICOM-UK Security Cooperation the sovereignty, security and territorial Plan, focusing on four strategic priority integrity of Belize. areas – border security, regional maritime Preparations For Cricket World Cup cooperation, establishment of a regional 2007 - Ministers agreed that Cricket World information and intelligence sharing Cup (CWC 2007) preparations meshed network, and training of security and law closely with and are contributing to the enforcement officials. A Joint Management emerging collective security capability Committee (JMC) was established, of the Region as is being promoted under comprising representatives from the UK the CARICOM/UK Security Cooperation and CARICOM Member States with Plan. For an event of this scale regional responsibility for monitoring and evaluating coordination is essential to ensure that the implementation process. The Ministers security is in no way compromised by Above: International and regional cricket and government officials reviewing secu- noted that subsequently CARICOM agreed facilitating quick and easy movement of a rity arrangements during a simulation exercise at the Beausejour Cricket Ground to the establishment of an institutionalised large volume of persons and goods across earlier this year. The local British Government Representative is fifth from the left framework for the management of crime the Region. Ministers welcomed the steps Below: Troops from the Regional Security System during a simulation exercise at and security issues in the Region. This already taken including the CARICOM Beausejour earlier this year includes an Implementation Agency for political leadership provided by the Crime and Security (IMPACS) to ensure establishment of the Ad Hoc Ministerial Sub the effective implementation of these and regional system were coming into place the transfer of SALW in the context of the Committee for Security Issues pertaining to other security measures and co-operation with external partners UN Programme of Action. Ministers also CWC 2007 and the identification of CWC Ministers endorsed the Report of the was being enhanced. Once the technical added their voice to the calls for work to 2007 security coordination as a priority JMC, reaffirmed their full support for the capabilities for sharing were completed, commence at the United Nations on a treaty activity for the Implementation Agency for activities covered by it and acknowledged it is expected that enforcement agencies on the trade in all conventional arms. Crime and Security (IMPACS). would make the fullest operational use of that in spite of early challenges, the Border Security - On Border Security, The UK agreed to support CARICOM activation of the new Framework for the systems. Ministers emphasized the importance in the roll-out of its common visa the Management of Crime and Security Ministers expressed their deep concern of control of land, as well as maritime arrangements for the period of the CWC in the Region has accelerated the pace over the illegal trade and availability of borders. With regard to the Guyana- 2007 and to address urgently the question of implementation in the four priority small arms and light weapons (SALW) in the Venezuela border controversy, both sides of assisting in the issuance of such visas areas under the co-operation plan. Region which contribute to the increasing reaffirmed their unequivocal support for The Ministers noted that the particular level of armed violence and undermine the maintenance of Guyana’s territorial in countries where CARICOM is not progress is being made in human resource stability, security and development. They integrity, including its unrestricted right represented. The UK would facilitate development and leadership for the stressed the connection between drug to the development of the entirety of its intelligence links with South Asian and the CARICOM security and law enforcement trafficking, illegal trade in small arms and territory for the benefit of its people. They other international intelligence agencies community, acknowledged the steps taken organised crime and the need to work on expressed satisfaction at the cordiality and would examine the possibility of in maritime co-operation and reaffirmed a regional SALW Plan. Ministers also which had characterized relations between providing operational support for disaster the aim of complete adherence to the recognized the importance of global Guyana and Venezuela in recent years, preparedness. CARICOM would provide Regional Maritime (Aruba) Agreement. In guidelines on SALW transfers and called and recognised the instrumental role of the UK with updated versions of its intelligence co-operation, Ministers further on the international community to work dialogue at the highest levels in facilitating regional threat assessment as the basis for noted that the elements of an effective together to develop international norms on the commitment to a peaceful settlement of such intervention.

CARICOM FOREIGN MINISTERS’ STATEMENT SAINT LUCIA GOVERNMENT’S STATEMENT The Foreign Ministers of the no place in the democratic culture of The Government and People of The Government and People of Caribbean Community gathered the Region and undermine the politi- Saint Lucia join the rest of the Ca- Saint Lucia join the Government in St. George’s, Grenada, for the cal, economic and social stability of ribbean and the world in condemn- and People of Guyana in unreserv- Ninth Meeting of the Council of the countries of the Community. They ing the brutal murder of Guyana’s edly condemning the multiple mur- Foreign and Community Rela- expressed the hope that the investiga- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries der of Minister Sawh and the other tions received with shock and a tions launched by the Guyana Police and Livestock, Satyadeow “Sash” victims of that brutal attack. great sense of sadness the news of Force would result in the capture of the Sawh by an armed gang. These and other high-profile kill- the assassination of the Honour- perpetrators and their being brought to Mr Sawh is recalled by fellow Ag- ings, in Guyana as in other Caricom justice. able Satyadeow Sawh, Minister of riculture Ministers across the region states, add to the growing concerns Fisheries, Other Crops and Live- The Foreign Ministers of the Carib- as one who made significant contribu- that Caricom Governments and citi- stock and Acting Minister of Ag- bean Community extend their deepest tions at the Caricom level to the search zens collectively share about the sympathy to the Government and peo- riculture of Guyana, in the early for solutions to the region’s agriculture, state of crime in our region. ple of Guyana and to the families of hours of Saturday 22 April, 2006 fisheries and livestock sectors. The Government and People of in Georgetown, Guyana, along the victims, and their hopes for the full His colleague subject minister in Saint Lucia offer deepest condolenc- with his brother, sister and his se- recovery of those persons who were Saint Lucia, Hon. Ignatius Jean, re- es to the Government and People of curity guard. wounded in the attack and who are cur- members him as one who clearly artic- Guyana and pledge to continue to The Foreign Ministers of the Ca- rently receiving medical attention. ulated the needs of the farming fishing work together with other Caricom ribbean Community expressed their The Foreign Ministers pledged and livestock communities of Guyana Governments and People to even revulsion over this heinous act of CARICOM’s full support to the Gov- and the Caribbean in the face of prob- more effectively coordinate efforts violence which they strongly con- ernment and people of Guyana at this lems brought about by the new terms in the fight against crime, across demned. Such acts of violence have trying time. of world trade and Globalization. borders and between jurisdictions.

Saturday, May 6, 2006 Saint Lucia 7

Continued from page 2 follows: 6 percent for Secondary Educa- in the recurrent budget for the free medical is provided for upgrading performing ven- tion, 34 percent for Post Secondary Educa- drugs programme for persons who suffer ues, $100,000 for the National Arts Festi- Providing Low Income tion and 22 percent for Tertiary Education. from diabetes and diabetes with hyperten- val and $162,155 is for the Training of Ar- Housing This study, Mr Speaker gives real meaning sion. tistes and Technicians. These amounts are to the statement that our Nobel laureate, in addition to the traditional allocations for With the rising price of construction ma- The capital budget of the Ministry of Sir Arthur Lewis made so long ago; “the Health is primarily for providing the new Carnival, Assou Square, and Emancipation terial, it is important for the Government to cure for poverty is not money, but educa- Day Observance. continue to provide some measure of sup- infrastructure required to improve the de- tion.” This is why, Mr. Speaker, this Gov- livery of our health and welfare services. I port to low income households. The Low ernment has placed increasing emphasis on Income Housing Grant Facility had to be wish to highlight the following allocations Crime Reduction the establishment of a sound education and for the benefi t of Honourable Members: (1) suspended last year because of the non- Earlier in my presentation, I announced training system. I have allocated a sum of $17.3 million for the New National Hos- availability of EU resources. However, as a series of initiatives that the Government $168.2 million to the Ministry of Educa- pital; (2) $2.8 million for the preliminary I indicated earlier, we are now advised that will be undertaking this year to improve tion. As a percentage of GDP, this repre- works for the New Mental Health Facility; the funding will be available this year and security. I will, therefore, focus on other sents almost 7 percent. Mr. Speaker, it is (3) $716,779 for the completion of refur- we have accordingly allocated a sum of areas of the Justice and Security Agencies instructive to note that in the same World bishment works at the Soufriere Hospital; $2.0 million for this facility. budget. Overall, the Justice and Security Bank study to which I referred earlier, only (4) $5.9 million for repairs to health cen- Agencies will receive an increase of 14.3 Honourable Members will recall that Barbados in the Caribbean spends more tres; (5) $8.8 million for HIV/AIDS pre- percent in allocation this year. The total al- this facility has two components: (1) For on education as a percentage of GDP than vention and control; and (6) $500,000 for a location to these agencies is $84.5 million. low-income persons who own their lots, Saint Lucia. home repair programme for the elderly. the Government will provide a Grant sup- The major focus this year for the Min- I am proud - as I am sure are all Hon- The Emergency Medical Services and port of 10 percent of a loan to construct a istry of Justice is to complete ongoing ourable Members and indeed all Saint Lu- Port Health Services will both be upgraded home, up to a maximum of $10,000; (2) projects. These include: (1) Constructing cians – of achieving a major milestone in for the 2007 Cricket World Cup, and this For those persons who do not own land, the the building to house the Forensic Unit, our national development with the imple- enhancement will provide yet another leg- Government will provide Grant Support of which is estimated to cost $3.8 million and mentation of universal secondary educa- acy from the hosting of this event. In ad- 20 percent of the loan, to a maximum of for which an allocation of $2.7 million is tion. A capital allocation of $26.8 million dition to comprehensive training of emer- $20,000. made. A budgetary provision of $688,174 or 63.3 percent of the Ministry’s budget is gency medical personnel, and a marked is made for the procurement of Forensic Amounts of $5.7 million and $2.1 million made to the project, namely the Education upscale of the vector control programme, Equipment. (2) Rehabilitating the High are allocated to the ongoing programmes Development Project, which supports the new ambulances will be procured. Fund- Court building, for which an allocation of of Shelter Development and PROUD re- implementation of Universal Secondary ing for these improvements totalling $3.1 $340,155 is made; (3) Establishment of spectively. Education. million will be derived from the budget for the Night Court, staffed by two additional Mr Speaker, I have allocated $6.2 mil- Cricket World Cup and from the Capital magistrates, to determine traffi c cases. Disaster Mitigation lion for the rehabilitation of schools, of Reserve. I also wish to announce that the Govern- With the Castries and Anse-La-Raye which $5.1 million is earmarked for the The last project which I wish to highlight, refurbishment of schools falling within the Mr. Speaker, is the new Home for the El- ment will invest signifi cantly in security Flood Mitigation Project coming to an end, for Cricket World Cup. As I indicated in the major ongoing disaster mitigation proj- Economic Reconstruction Programme fi - derly, which is estimated to cost $13.1 mil- nanced by CDB. Additionally, $1.1 million lion. An allocation of $8.6 million is made my presentation last year, we cannot afford ect that will continue this year is Phase 2 of to compromise on security for the biggest the World Bank-funded Saint Lucia Emer- has been allocated for major repairs to the in this year’s Estimates for commencement school plant. of construction. This was outlined earlier international event that Saint Lucia would gency Recovery and Disaster Management have ever hosted. An amount of $5 million Our capital programme for human re- in my presentation. Project. A sum of $10.3 million is allocated is to be funded from the Capital Reserve to source development was unfortunately also to complete the coastal protection works for meet the security needs for Cricket World affected by the non-receipt of EU funds. I the Dennery Village, to rehabilitate bridges Social Transformation Cup, much of which will carry over as a have allocated a sum of $3.2 million this and implement mitigation works. legacy impact of the event. year, of which $2 million is allocated di- Programmes rectly to the NSDC and $1.2 million is for Mr. Speaker, our social programme Social Service a Human Resources Programme that is would be incomplete if we did not men- Allocation to General EU-funded. These programmes were ex- tion the range of poverty alleviation pro- Agencies grammes that this Government has imple- Service Agencies Mr. Speaker, it is no secret that this Gov- plained earlier, so there is no need for fur- ther elaboration. mented and continues to implement. In The allocation to the General Service ernment places strong emphasis on the so- this regard, Mr. Speaker, the allocation Mr. Speaker, I have already highlighted agencies, which include the Offi ce of the cial services, because improving the welfare given to the Ministry of Social Transfor- major interventions in the area of sports Prime Minister and the Ministry of Labour of our people is on the top of our agenda. mation, Culture and Local Government is development. Suffi ce it to note here that Relations, Public Service and Co-opera- This year, I have increased the overall allo- $27.6 million, of which $14.6 million is the overall Capital allocation increases by tives, is $42.4 million. cation to the Social Service Agencies by al- for recurrent expenditure and $13.0 mil- $1.4 million over last year’s allocation. most $30 million or 10.8 percent, to $306.3 lion is for Capital Expenditure. I wish to The key highlights are: (1) A sum of million. Of this amount, $204.7 million is highlight the following projects for the $12.0 million is provided to the Offi ce of for recurrent expenditure and $101.6 mil- Investing in the benefi t of Honourable Members: (1) An Private Sector Relations to support the lion for capital expenditure. allocation of $7.2 million is made for the private sector. This is from different EU Health and well-being 5th Programme of the Basic Needs Trust sources; (2) A sum of $1.0 million is for Developing Human of our People Fund. I understand this programme has the establishment of e-Government; (3) A Mr. Speaker, this Government is under- been affected by slow disbursements and sum of $1.4 million for the Constitutional Capital: Investing in taking the most radical transformation in I wish to implore the Ministry to do all in Reform Commission; and (4) $955,000 for the next Generation our health sector. This transformation is its power to speed up the implementation the Renovation of the Greaham Louisy Ad- The world economy is increasingly be- based on the philosophy that health care rate; (2) An allocation of $1.8 million for ministrative Building. ing driven by knowledge-based industries. should be available to all, irrespective of the Poverty Reduction Fund; and (3) An The Offi ce of the Governor General and A skilled workforce is a key requirement income level. In keeping with our commit- allocation of $2.0 million for an Integrated the agencies of Parliament, namely the for making the successful transition from a ment to transform the health sector I have Social Recovery Programme to be funded Legislature, Service Commissions and the low wage economy to a high wage econo- made available an allocation of $110.5 mil- by the EU. Electoral and Audit Departments, shall re- my. According to the World Bank Report lion, of which $64.3 million is for recurrent ceive a total allocation of $6.2 million. In “A Time to Choose - Caribbean Develop- expenditure and $46.2 million is for capi- Cultural Development keeping with this Government’s efforts at ment in the Twentieth Century”, the private tal expenditure. As Honourable Members An allocation of $462,155 is given to strengthening democracy, this year we will returns to education for Saint Lucia are as heard earlier, provisions have been made cultural development, of which $200,000 begin decentralising registration services Automated Fingerprinting System For Saint Lucia The percentage of undetected crimes identifi cation is ineffi cient and ineffective,” on the island, it is hoped, will be reduced said Prime Minister Anthony. considerably with the purchase of an The fi ngerprinting system, he said, will EC $750, 000 automated fi ngerprinting be complimented by a forensic science system for St. Lucia. laboratory now under construction at In making the disclosure on budget Tapion. The facility which is being day, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Kenny said constructed at just over three million dollars government’s investments in the security is expected to be opened in December. of Saint Lucia have been substantial, “Mr. Speaker, this Government has Site of the Forensic Lab at la Toc particularly in the fi ght against crime. always given its commitment to do all “The problem has to be addressed within its powers to address the level of undergoing training and are expected to The Prime Minister also announced because there is no greater invasion of crime in Saint Lucia, and this facility graduate in July this year. On completion that St. Lucia will be hiring help from one’s privacy and security, than burglary. represents a critical component in moving of this training cycle, a further 60 recruits the British Police Force to aid the The loss of confi dence is palpable and that process forward. It is an expensive but will enter the Police Training Academy. country in its crime fi ghting strategies understandable. The fact is the detection signifi cant step in the fi ght against crime,” The Prime Minister said these interventions, and to develop capacity within the rate for robberies and burglaries is less said Dr. Anthony. coupled with the acquisition of more police police force. than 10 percent. All kinds of explanations Meantime government will continue vehicles, operational and communications St. Lucia will become the third have been offered for this ridiculously its programme to increase the number of equipment, is an indication of the seriousness country in the region to adopt this low detection rate. The police argue police offi cers in the Royal Saint Lucia with which his Government views the fi ght measure, following in the footsteps of that the manual system of fi ngerprint Police Force. Currently 65 recruits are against crime. Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. 8 Saint Lucia Saturday, May 6, 2006

Minister of Sports Mario Michel, (centre) assisted by Mello the CWC 2007 Mascot (far left) and CEO of Cyril Saltibus, one of the first local applicants for Cricket World Cup St. Lucia, Ernest Hilaire (second from left), cutting the ribbon to open the Ticketing Centre World Cup tickets, filling out his application form

he Local Organising Commit- Lucians and interested persons should largest purchase of tickets were being Cricket World Cup 2007, cut the rib- tee (LOC) for the ICC Crick- take advantage of the application pro- done by the English of whom Saint Lu- bon to officially open the centre and af- Tet World Cup 2007 officially cess. He reiterated the need to change cia would be hosting. He advised the terwards, the Minister was one of two opened its Ticketing Centre on Tues- the present culture of purchasing tickets Permanent Secretary of Tourism Mrs. persons completing the first St. Lucian day May 2nd at the Cable & Wire- last minute and warned that this would Maria Fowell who was also present, applications for tickets. The other was less outlet, Gablewoods Mall, Sunny not work for the up coming Cricket that this may be an indication of visi- Cyril Saltibus. Acres. World Cup in 2007, as there were thou- tors numbers during the Cricket World In attendance were the Minister of sands of requests worldwide through Cup in 2007. Youth and Sports the Honorable Mario the net. The CEO thanked Cable & The representative of Cable & Wire- THIS WEEK ON NTN Michel, Chairman of the Board of Di- Wireless for their support through the less Mrs. Deborah Barley also ad- rectors of the LOC Dr. James Fletcher, use of its facilities and staff in the Tick- dressed the audience and expressed her the Chief Executive Officer Ernest Hili- eting process. company’s support to the LOC in its Sat. May 6th to Fri May 12th, 2006 are, representatives of Cable & Wireless The Minister for Sports, Honorable preparation for the up coming event. NTN – PROVIDING (official sponsor), Board Members and Mario Michel commended the LOC The Ticketing Centre will be opened INFORMATION YOU NEED Staff of the LOC and the local Media. and its staff for their continued work Monday to Friday from 9.00 am to Rebroadcasts of parliamentarians The CEO in his welcoming remarks in ensuring that the event is a success. 5.00 pm and Saturdays from 9.00 am presentations at the House of encouraged persons to make use of the He indicated that there was no doubt to 1.00 pm Assembly Hon. Marcus Nicholas & that Saint Lucia will be a successful Minister of Sports Mario Michel, Ticketing Centre, indicating that there Hon. Damian Greaves - Sat. May was an allotment of tickets for Saint venue as there was indication that the assisted by MELLO, the mascot for 6th, 9:00 a.m. Rebroadcasts of parliamentarians presentations at the House of Dehring: CWC 2007 Match Assembly - Sun. May 7th, 9:00 p.m. The Banana Irrigation Project Allocation Remains Unchanged – Mon. May 8th, 6:30 p.m. ensuring that the stadia are ready cerned is working assiduously to en- AgriFocus – Fish Handling in St. for an October deadline. He went on sure that no time is lost.” Lucia - Tues. May 9th, 6:30 p.m. to dispel any rumours that this was Given that 300-plus days remain un- On A Point of Law: Get familiar not the case. til the first ball of ICC Cricket World with the constitution and your “It is full steam ahead across the re- Cup 2007 is bowled, the spotlight is rights: – Wed. May 10th , 8:00 p.m. gion, everyone is moving forward as fixed on all 12 venues being upgraded What is the status of technical planned. Of course we have a back-up or constructed for the tournament and vocational education at schools? plan in place and it is currently being their respective states of readiness. - Thurs. May 11th – 8:00 p.m. reviewed by the ICC. That plan will Dehring elaborated on the situation Proud: Empowering only be implemented if absolutely stating that: “At this point in time, we Communities – Fri. May 12th necessary,” he said, addressing the re- at ICC CWC 2007 Inc. have a clear un- – 7:30 p.m. location issue.At present, there is no derstanding of where each country is in Another Edition of “A Point one country that is being earmarked their stadium development and I expect of Law” 2006 – Fri. April 21st to ‘take’ matches currently assigned to that each one of them will indeed be – 8:00 p.m. another Host Venue. If a decision were complete within the time frame set.” Remember to tune in for: to be taken to relocate matches from While Jamaica recently confirmed GIS News Breaks and Kweyol one Host Venue to another, it could that it had encountered some delays News daily from 6:30 p.m. only be taken by ICC CWC WI 2007 based on cement shortages on the is- Issues & Answers/Mondays at Inc. This is not a decision that can be land, a revised critical path of comple- made by anyone outside of CWC.” 8:00pm: tion has now been submitted by the Interview/Tuesdays at 6:15pm : A number of countries in the region contractors and is under review by the Konsit Kweyol/Tuesdays at 8:00pm have indicated that they are on standby Local Organising Committee (LOC). (Kweyol Discussion): and willing to take on matches should Warner Park in St. Kitts is on the verge other Host Venues not be ready. Deh- Your Right to Know/Thursdays at of completion and will shortly be for- 6:15 p.m. (Min. of Ed. Prog). ring added that while “this spirit of co- mally handed over to the St. Kitts & Take 2/Fridays at 6:15pm Chris Dehring operation” was “critical to the overall Nevis LOC. In Antigua, the most re- (Week in Review) success of the tournament, at this time cent phase of the Sir Vivian Richards Weflechi/Fridays at 6:40pm - (Week hris Dehring, Managing every country is expected to meet its Stadium has just been completed – 22 in Review—Kweyol) Director and CEO of ICC obligation to host matches”. days ahead of schedule. The contrac- Cricket World Cup West “Each Host Venue is working not tors aim to build on that momentum to C ensure that the stadium is completed For the complete programme guide, Indies 2007 Inc., has clearly stated only on the completion of their stadia log on to our website at www.stlucia. but on all the other infrastructural ele- well within the prescribed deadline. that the current status for all sta- gov.lc and then click on the NTN icon. dia across the region is “full steam ments required to support the hosting Guyana’s Providence Stadium is also ahead”.Speaking from Grenada ear- of the tournament. We have just over progressing at a pace and is scheduled lier today, he noted that the nine Host 300 days to go, including weekends for completion by the October 2006 Venues are all currently focussed on and public holidays, and everyone con- deadline. www.stlucia .gov.lc

Saint Lucia NATIONWIDE is published every week by the Department of Information Services. Contact us at: The Department of Information Services, Greaham Louisy Administrative Building, The Waterfront, Castries, St. Lucia, West Indies Tel: (758) 468 2116; Fax (758) 453 1614; E-mail: [email protected]; http://stlucia.gov.lc